The Force's Shepherds
Chapter 64
The End of an Adventure
Yen'fay stood on the outskirts of the army camp. His armor still sat back in his tent. He had no need for it now. The rebellion in Rosanne had been crushed. Any resistance stomped out with the sword and shield. Brutally brought to an end. As the Conqueror demanded. Not a single threat existed for him in this beautiful country anymore.
He took in a deep breath. Enjoying the crisp morning air that had settled over the port city of Charlet. In a few days, a new company of Valmese soldiers would arrive and take over the occupation. Relieving him and his men from this work. They would all finally go home to Chon'sin.
Yen'fay looked forward to it. He grew tired of the constant war councils and campaigning. The continent had been brought to a heel. Emperor Walhart ruled all. There would be no more wars in the coming days. He hoped. And if another uprising occurred, he hoped that Cervantes or Pheros would be sent to handle it. He had been away from home far too long. His duties as a General in the Conqueror's military kept him away from the family he held dear.
Once he returned home, if his baby brother had not been found, he would start a search personally. Excellus would not defeat him so easily. He may have the Conqueror's ear, but Yen'fay had the Conqueror's respect. If it came to blows between his men and Excellus, Yen fay liked to believe the Conqueror would choose the honorable one. The one that did not kidnap helpless children in order to feed their petty schemes.
That being said, once he returned to Chon'sin, his own petty schemes would come to an end. No more funding rebellions. No more shadow warfare against the Empire that killed his parents. He would take the mantle of governor. Allow Say'ri a reprieve. His younger sister had to mature so much so fast over the past few years. His actions, as well as the Conqueror's, had robbed her of a life of her choosing.
Besides, all of the shadow games cost him his little brother. Excellus had known much more than Yen'fay thought. And that disturbed the General. The worm may not have a shred of honor, but he was damn smart. The only reason the Conqueror did not deal with his actions personally was probably due to the Conqueror exhibiting a small shred of mercy towards one of his most successful generals. Yen'fay would not allow such luck to be for nothing.
Footsteps rushed up to him. One of his sentries.
"General." The young boy saluted, "We have sights on travelers approaching the city. Eight of them match the description of the rebels that escaped two weeks ago."
Yen'fay furrowed his brow. They were returning? Why? Were these rebels surrendering? That was possible. At the same time, they had escaped his grasp. They had earned their freedom. Why come back and give it up?
"Is there anyone else with them?" Yen'fay's quiet voice asked.
"That's the thing sir. Several of General Cervantes's men march with them. We can see his standard from the camp's edge."
Yen'fay arched an eyebrow. Cervantes sent men with these rebels? Perhaps he captured them and wanted them returned to Rosanne for Yen'fay to deal with? No, that was not it. Cervantes was a competent general, but also an ambitious one. He would not pass up an opportunity to show he was superior to Pheros and Yen'fay.
The rebels were not prisoners then. They traveled with Cervantes's men as companions.
"Take me to them." Yen'fay ordered.
"Sir!" The sentry saluted and rushed towards the main road.
Yen'fay followed. Walking at a leisurely pace. He was not worried about eight potential rebels. Or were they even rebels? Cervantes did not seem to think so. Yen'fay had not even considered the possibility that the travelers were actually innocent. Then again, his men had found them dealing with a black market merchant. Something rebels often did in the city.
His curiosity was piqued. As he reached the main road, he turned to face the oncoming travelers. His eyes widened in shock.
Leading the motley group was Say'ri. Her face and outfit frayed and dirty. Striding alongside her was the mercenary he hired, Luke, and-
He sprinted towards the group, startling his own men that had gathered to watch the traveler's arrival. As he rushed towards the group, his baby brother broke away from Say'ri and ran up to him. Yen'fay knelt to the ground and wrapped the toddler in an enormous embrace.
"Kage." He breathed as he clutched the boy tight.
He let out a heavy, relieved sigh. All of the anxiety and stress he had been feeling for weeks now left his body in an instant. The little blond boy in his arms did more to comfort him than any luxury Rosanne or Chon'sin could offer. He kissed the top of the boy's head then looked up at the travelers.
A motley group indeed. Three were obvious mages. Although none of them wore matching robes. One even wore a heavy coat instead of traditional robes. Another wore a very light outfit more suited for desert sands than traveling through the Valm countryside. A merchant and a thief stood beside a very hairy woman. A Pegasus rider trotted beside his sister. And keeping to the back of the pack was a young woman with one arm; a young, unassuming young man with a neatly trimmed beard; and a tall, elderly man with rather small hands.
Yen'fay looked at his sister. He could not help but notice the small smile on her face as he embraced Kage. It had been a long time since he had seen her smile like that.
"I had a feeling you would not stay at home." Yen'fay said with a small smile as he ruffled Kage's hair with his hand.
Say'ri shrugged, "Someone had to make sure the job was done correctly."
"That is why I asked for someone who already proved himself capable to go and search for Kage." He nodded at Luke.
The young man blinked, "You knew she would follow!"
Yen'fay uttered a soft laugh, "I know my sister is willful and stubborn. That, and she won't let an injustice stand." He eyed the others around his sister, "And I see along the way she made some unexpected allies."
Yes, he recognized this group of travelers. With the exception of the two blue haired girls and the old man, they matched the description of their escaped rebels.
"You all are not rebels after all."
"No. They are not." Say'ri motioned to all them, "Brother, these are members of the Ylissean Shepherds. I present to you Robin and Ben Kenobi, their captains."
"I was never really given the rank of captain. Just tactician." Robin uttered with a sheepish smile.
"I was. Still don't know how or why that came about." Ben smirked before bowing to General Yen'fay, "General it is a pleasure to meet you under better circumstances."
Robin jumped then bowed as well. Suddenly remembering the need for a more formal approach.
"If I had known you were Ylissean, we would have met under better circumstances much earlier." Yen'fay admitted. His eyes fell on the furious looking merchant, "I apologize for what happened, my lady. I wish I could undo the damage."
She remained silent. Her gaze averted from his own. Yen'fay could understand her anger. She looked identical to the black market merchant that died that day. The pair must be related in some way.
"We have Anna's personal effects locked away currently." Yen'fay told the merchant, "I will give you the key and allow you to claim them."
He saw the shocked look on her face. It did not signal forgiveness. But maybe, she would not be as hostile as she initially was. Yen'fay drew in a deep breath and rose to his feet.
"Well, I assume they are here in order to leave Valm before the Embargo takes effect?" He asked Say'ri.
His sister nodded.
"I will make sure a ship is prepared. It will be ready to sail tomorrow. For now, your friends may rest with us in the camp. We have more food here than in the city at the moment."
"Ah food!" The red haired man cried, "This guy is speaking my language."
Ben Kenobi uttered a long groan, "He does not understand proper manners does he?"
"You're asking that now?" Robin chuckled, "Thank you, General. We will gladly take your invitation."
Yen'fay nodded. He barked some orders to the men around him. A few new tents needed to be constructed and a hot meal prepared for their guests. They were to be treated as they would treat him. Not a single soul questioned those orders. His men simply saluted and went to work.
The General reached down and picked up his baby brother. The little boy let out a cheerful cry as Yen'fay hoisted him high over head before plopping him down on his shoulders.
"Come. All of you. You must be weary from your travels." He looked at Say'ri and Luke, "And I want to know what happened."
Ben arched an eyebrow as he watched five little fingers wiggle then wrap around the handle of a small mug. Something about it just seemed so… wrong. A child's hand on an old man's body.
I'm beginning to have second thoughts about taking his old hands.
"You seem distressed, my friend." Dooku leaned back in the wooden chair, one leg cross over the other. He raised his glass using both of his tiny hands. Ben cringed.
"I think the reason should be obvious."
Dooku smirked, "Well, you brought it upon yourself."
"Unfortunately." Ben sighed as he brought his own cup to his lips.
Being allowed to sit a rest was a welcome change of pace for the Jedi. He had been running all over the planet for nearly a year now. And his body had finally started to show signs of exhaustion. He would not give up his search for Luke. But it felt nice to be able to relax for once. As soon as he got back to Ylisse, the search would continue. He had a feeling the others would want to return to Ylisstol. And he probably would as well. But only for a short time.
Dooku let out a satisfied sigh as he finished off his first cup of tea.
"This land has wonderful cuisine. I must say." Dooku hummed, "The tea is remarkable. A bit bitter though."
"Much like yourself."
"Hardly." Dooku shot back, "And that fish and grain they gave us."
"Rice?"
"Yes that." Dooku nodded, "A touch bland. But it paired well with the protein."
Ben nodded in agreement. If there was one thing about Dooku he could actually stand, it was that the man had very refined taste. He could be prim and proper when needed. And he understood the environment around him very well. Ben did not even need to explain why they could not speak about the greater galaxy. Dooku correctly guessed this world did not know much beyond their own. And it was best to not disturb the natural order of things around them.
"So." Dooku continued, "What is Ylisse like?"
A wistful smile crossed Ben's lips.
"Does paradise count as a proper description?"
Dooku snorted, "Paradise?" The Count shifted in his seat, "This world seems rather backwards to be considered a paradise. I'm worried that Ylisstol does not have proper plumbing."
Ben let out a small laugh, "They do. For how primitive the technology of this world is, it has not held back their civilizations. Ylisstol is a beautiful city. I'm sure it will be fully rebuilt too by the time we get back."
"Rebuilt?"
Ben nodded as he set his cup of tea down on the table between them, "A year ago, Ylisse went to war with Plegia. The Plegians almost conquered the country. But Prince Chrom rallied his soldiers. With the help of Regna Ferox, we won."
"We?" Dooku gave Ben a wry smirk, "I thought you still consider yourself a Jedi, Kenobi. Shouldn't you be an impartial observer not an active combatant?"
Ben frowned, "The Plegians attacked unprovoked. I felt it my duty to step in and assist the side in danger of being persecuted and wiped out."
"Oh really?" Dooku nodded, "So you followed your sense of honor and duty instead of the Jedi code." He raised his empty glass to Ben, "I'm proud of you."
"That is not what I meant."
"Isn't it?" Dooku argued back, "Would the old Order have become involved in such a small, regional conflict? Or would they have sat back and done nothing while genocide likely ensued?"
Ben furrowed his brow. What would the Jed Order have done? What would the council have done? Dooku did have a point. There were many cases of something similar happening throughout galactic history. A recent example being the Naboo crisis Obi Wan fought in. One of the more tragic examples being the Mandalorian Wars during ancient times. He shook his head.
"That doesn't matter."
"Your correct, because the Order is dead, Kenobi." Dooku leaned back in his seat, "If you want my personal opinion, it is time for you to move on."
"Why would you care about me?" Ben asked.
"I always somewhat cared about you, Obi Wan. You were Qui Gon's student. And Qui Gon was my student." Dooku smirked at Ben, "It is almost like I should be a grandfather to you."
"A particularly hostile grandfather." Ben grumbled.
"Perhaps." Dooku shrugged, "But that hostility was born from warfare. Not personal feelings."
Ben eyed the Count across from him, "So you would so easily forget the many times we tried to kill each other just because we are no longer on opposite sides in a war?"
Dooku shrugged, "I'm not so sure about forget. Perhaps forgive a little bit. That might be the more proper term." He could see the confusion on Ben's face, "Kenobi, unlike you, I realize there is a greater threat to both of us in the galaxy. If Sidious were to find out we were both alive-"
"He would make sure we did not stay this way long."
Dooku nodded, "Precisely. And we both know he will learn of us sooner rather than later. His reach is too long. Power too great. You and I need to join together to combat him when that day comes. Maybe we can defeat him."
Ben shook his head and leaned back in his own seat. He was quiet for a minute. A gentle breeze drifted into the tent he shared with Dooku as he pondered the older man's words.
"To defeat Sidious is not my destiny." Ben replied.
"How do you know that?"
Ben sighed, "If it was my destiny, then I would not be searching for Luke."
Ben froze as that little tidbit of information slipped from the younger man's tongue. A low chuckle left Dooku's lips.
"So that is why you are so worried about finding the boy." Dooku smirked as Ben threw up his mental defenses, "I am not trying to break into your mind, Kenobi. No need to be so defensive."
"One cannot be too careful when it comes to you." Ben frowned.
Dooku nodded, "The Jedi Purge has made you wary. Good. That will serve you well."
The old man reached up and used his tiny, regrowing fingers to scratch an itch in his beard. His other hand tapped the armrest. Kenobi did not believe it was his destiny to destroy Sidious. How strange given the fact that the rest of the Jedi were dead. Or were they? Were there other survivors?
"Were you the only one that survived?" He abruptly asked.
"Hm?"
"The Jedi." Dooku clarified, "Are you the only survivor?"
Ben's face saddened significantly. The younger man set his glass to the side. A small nod told Dooku what he wanted to know.
"So then it is your destiny to slay Sidious." Dooku concluded.
"No." Ben replied emphatically. He wanted to counter, but Dooku could see some confusion on Ben's face. A lack of conviction in what he believed, "I'm not sure what my destiny is anymore. When I initially survived the purge, my destiny was to safeguard and train Luke."
Dooku furrowed his brow, "The boy sounds extremely important if that is what you believed your life would amount to."
Ben hesitated to delve further. Dooku waited for him to speak. There was much to learn about this boy Ben was searching for. Dooku already doubted Kenobi was the father. It became apparent to him that Ben had been searching for this boy for sometime now. And not much time had passed between the present and his own death. There was not enough time for Ben to forsake his Jedi oath and actually fall for a woman that way.
"He's Anakin's son." Ben admitted.
Dooku furrowed his brow, "Skywalker's?"
And there was the missing piece to the puzzle. The child of Skywalker would have an enormous amount of potential in the force. Enough to, if properly trained, destroy Darth Sidious. No wonder Kenobi did not believe it his destiny to confront the Dark Lord of the Sith. He knew he was not strong enough. And he never would be strong enough. Sidious's power was monstrous. The old man a monument to the Sith's teachings. A manifestation of the Dark Side of the Force. Kenobi was nothing more than a man. A simple Jedi.
Dooku chucked his tea cup at Ben. Ben yelped and ducked out of the way. The cup slammed against the tent wall and fell to the grassy floor.
"What the hell!?"
"You managed to lose someone that important?" Dooku groaned, "Honestly, Kenobi, what good are you if you can't even safeguard an infant."
"It is not like I lost him on purpose!"
Before their argument could continue, the entry to their tent opened. Robin poked his head inside.
"Oh." Robin flicked his gaze back and forth between the two, "Is this a bad time?"
Ben let out a long, heavy sigh, "No, no." He waved at Robin, "Please come in. Rescue me from this old fart's questions."
Dooku snorted, "Your speech has certainly taken a downturn while hanging around that thief."
Ben glared across at the old man. Dooku smirked back.
"So, Robin." Dooku drawled, "What brings you to our humble tent at this time?"
"Well," Robin kicked at the floor, "Seeing as we finally have a chance to stop rushing about for a moment, I was hoping Ben could continue my lessons."
"Lessons?" Dooku glanced over at Ben, "Are you-"
Ben nodded. Dooku furrowed his brow and looked at Robin. Eyes flicking up and down over the unassuming boy. He did not sense anything remarkable about him.
So he delved deeper. Beneath the surface of the Force. And what Dooku found stunned him. A well of power completely untapped. No.. not untapped. Locked away. Sealed behind a strange prison that kept it from being unleashed. A shadowy pit of dark side energy waiting to burst forth from the boy.
Ben saw the Count's eyes widen. Robin looked a little uncomfortable beneath Dooku's penetrating stare.
"Uh…" Robin shifted his weight from one foot to the other, "Why is he?"
"The potential you possess is remarkable." Dooku breathed, "How did I not sense this before?"
Robin's eyes widened at Dooku, "You can-" He whipped his head towards Ben, "Is he a Jedi too?"
Ben opened his mouth to explain, but Dooku cut him off.
"I used to be a Jedi Master, Robin." Dooku folded his tiny hands in his lap, "In fact, Kenobi's master was my own apprentice. But I left the order some time ago."
Robin looked at Dooku filled with wonder and curiosity.
"No Robin." Ben sighed, knowing exactly what the tactician was about to ask.
"Oh come on! The amount of knowledge he must have! I can't help but ask."
"Come now Kenobi. No harm can come of me giving the young man a few pointers."
"Those pointers are not healthy for him."
"Do you know the Dark Side of the Force?" Dooku countered.
Ben frowned.
"Precisely. Meanwhile, I have studied such mysteries for over a decade. The Dark Side fills Robin. Penetrates him to his very core. He needs to learn to control and master it. Not bury and run from such power."
"I have been teaching him the basics. That is all he will ever need." Ben remarked.
Dooku's lips deepened into a frown, "Robin, could you give us a minute."
Robin flicked his gaze between both men. He could see the tension in Ben as he glared across the tent at Dooku. Reluctantly, Robin nodded and ducked out of their tent.
"Kenobi." Dooku droned.
"Dooku." Ben hissed back.
"Do you have any idea of the opportunity you have inadvertently created?" Dooku asked. The old man rose to his feet and paced to and fro. Excitement building inside of him as he spoke, "There may not even be a need to wait for Skywalker's child to be ready. Robin's potential in the force is significant. That boy, Kage's, is enormous. And that other child, Marth, has moderate potential as well. Properly train all three and you will have force to be reckoned with."
"A force Sidious could easily kill."
"He could easily kill them all now." Dooku shot back. Arms folded over his chest.
"Not if they aren't a threat to him." Ben countered.
Dooku rolled his eyes, "Are you that naive? Or perhaps that stupid? Sidious will always see anyone with an inkling of Force potential as a threat. He will never admit it, because his pride would never allow him to. But he will come to this planet at some point. He will take care of us. Then he will sense those three and deal with them. With or without any further training. He does not tolerate threats or rivals that he himself cannot control."
Ben shifted uncomfortably in his seat.
"Neglect to train them at your own peril, Kenobi."
"We are done with this conversation." Ben rose from his seat and marched to the tent's exit.
"You cannot hide from what must be done." Dooku warned, "To do nothing, in this situation, is the worst option you could possibly choose."
Ben ignored him as he stepped out of their tent. A cool wind brushed past him. He rubbed his hands together and let out a heavy, irritated sigh.
"I hope I did not just drive a wedge between you two."
Ben glanced over at Robin. The tactician had been waiting outside of the tent. Ben frowned. How much did he hear? Hopefully not much at all. Then again, he and Dooku had kept their voices down.
"That wedge has been there for a long time already, Robin." Ben replied with a small sigh, "And… there won't be a lesson today. There is too much going on and not enough time. Perhaps on the boat ride back home."
Robin nodded, "I understand." The tactician tucked his hands into his coat pockets as another cool wind brushed through the army camp, "Um… I also came to tell you something is up with Marth. She's been having a rough few days. What with having to act as if Kage is some sort of ally and all."
"I'll talk to her." Ben nodded.
"Good." Robin replied as Ben turned on his heel and marched in the direction of Marth and Cynthia's tent, "Oh Ben! Dinner is in two hours. In the officers' mess tent. General Yen'fay wants to dine with us. As a thank you for saving his little brother."
"I'll be there." Ben called back before continuing on his way.
Robin sighed as he watched Ben disappear into the camp. He seemed so much more tense now that Dooku was around. The pair talked often enough. But every time they talked, Ben grew more aloof regarding the old man. To Robin, it did not look like they were old friends. Hell, Ben even admitted they were not on good terms.
His curious eyes turned to Ben's tent. Robin pursed his lips. He really shouldn't. Ben did not want him learning from Dooku. But damn it! He needed to learn. Needed to understand the Force. This power that he could barely control. If it could help his friends on the battlefield, then he needed to master it. Ben had made it clear he would not go past the basics. Dooku on the other hand…
Robin made his way back into the tent. He found Dooku sitting cross legged on his cot, meditating.
He tried to tip toe in. But the old man appeared instantly aware of his presence.
"I had a feeling you would come back." Dooku opened his eyes. A small, please smile rested over his lips.
"Yeah well," Robin took a seat across from him, "I have a feeling I'm going to need to know all I can about the force."
"Indeed you do." Dooku agreed, "It would be a shame if your potential went unrealized."
Robin blinked at Dooku in surprise, "Am I really that special?"
A good natured chuckle left Dooku's lips. The old man's eyes practically sparkled with excitement.
"More than you could possibly imagine."
Ben strode through camp. All around him, Valmese soldiers went about their daily routine. He could hear several blacksmiths working tirelessly on sharpening arms and repairing armor. Some of the soldiers sat around small campfires. All of them eager to dig into their rations for supper. Ben saw a few of them give him a stony glare as he passed by. Not a single soldier would question their General's orders when it came to Ben and his friends. But that did not mean they liked those orders. They all still viewed him and his friends with hostility. After all, it had only been a couple weeks ago when they clashed in the streets of Charlet. Some of their comrades fell to Ben's blade in that affair. It did not surprise him that there were still some ill feelings directed at him from the Valmese soldiers.
He managed to ignore some of the more venomous glares. The soldiers' opinions on him did not matter at the moment. Robin told him Marth was struggling over the past few days. The only reason the tactician would come to him and not try to handle it himself is that he probably already tried. And he failed to get through to her. Marth respected Ben. And for some reason, she called him Master. That still confused the swordsman.
A ball rolled up to his feet. Ben glanced down at his boots as he stopped walking. The ball was a little round thing made of rubber and soft leather. A playful cry raced across the camp. Ben looked up. A small smile crossed his lips as Prince Kage rushed over to the ball. Princess Say'ri walked behind him with a large grin on her face.
"Hurry up so you can throw it back." She called out to her little brother as the toddler hesitated in front of Ben.
The little boy looked up at Ben with big, bright, blue eyes. He shuffled nervously in front of Ben. Never moving to pick up the ball. Ben chuckled and knelt down to his eye level. He reached for the ball and plucked it up from the ground.
"I believe this is yours." Ben said.
Kage nodded and snatched the ball from Ben's hand.
He expected the toddler to turn around and run back to Say'ri. Maybe even throw the ball back at her.
Instead, the child stared hard at the ball. As if he was unsure what to do with it.
A gasp rushed from Ben's lungs. The ball floated a few inches off of Kage's hands. He let it hover there for a couple minutes before looking back up at Ben's stunned face. A bright smile ran over the young Prince's lips.
"Kage." Say'ri breathed as she picked him up. The ball fell back to Ben's feet, "I apologize Ben Kenobi." Say'ri said, "He does that often. A little trick that normally earns him some words of praise from the other dynasts in Chon'sin. All of them swear he will be a great mage someday." She brushed some of his long blonde hair from his face, "Problem is, we have no idea what kind of magic he is even using."
Ben's eyes remained fixed on the ball. Kage just used the Force. The Prince of Chon'sin just used the force. Effortlessly too. He flicked his eyes up at Say'ri. Immediately, he delved into the Force. That tug of familiarity grew stronger the more he looked at the boy.
What Ben felt made his heart stop in his chest. The boy's potential in the force was enormous. A well of untapped power. He felt so in tune with the Force. So comfortable with it. The Force hummed around him. And Ben could not help but be blown away by the raw power he felt within the toddler.
His mind raced. Extreme power and potential. Toddler. Blond hair and bright blue eyes.
"It can't be." Ben whispered as he struggled to catch his breath.
Say'ri furrowed her brow, "Are you well, Ben?" She bounced Kage in her arms, "You look like you have seen a ghost."
Ghosts would not stun him this much. Ben trembled a little as he rose to his feet. It made no sense. How could it. Luke was supposed to be barely a year old at this point. Not nearly three. Yet this toddler in Say'ri's arms matched his description and signature in the Force. The thread in his mind bolstered in strength as he stared at Kage.
"Ben Kenobi?" Say'ri said again, snapping Ben out of his stunned state.
"I um-"
"I hope he did not alarm you with his little trick. I understand seeing strange magic like that can startle some people."
"He-he did not startle me." Ben replied, still struggling to find words. He cleared his throat and tried to regather his bearings, "I apologize Say'ri. I just remembered I have to go um… handle something. Gaius and," He sucked in a deep breath, "shenanigans."
Say'ri raised an eyebrow, "Very well. But do not forget dinner is in a couple hours. I expect to see you there."
"Of course." He gave her a small nod, "I shall see you there."
He gave one last long look at Kage before turning on his heel and marching back towards the Shepherds' group of tents. His heart pounded in his chest. Mind raced.
Impossible. It had to be impossible. Prince Kage of Chon'sin could not possibly be Luke Skywalker. He ran a hand through his hair as he strode through the camp. Failing to hear Robin call to him as he walked.
He did not even notice when the tactician caught up to him and clapped a hand on his shoulder.
"Hey Ben. So Dooku and I were chatting and-" Robin caught himself, "Are you alright, Ben? You look a little sick."
"I-" Ben swallowed hard, "I found him."
Robin furrowed his brow. Puzzled for a moment. Then his eyes widened.
"You found Luke?"
Ben gave Robin a shaky nod.
"Well-" A thrilled smile ran over Robin's face, "Well that's great! Where is he?"
Ben shook his head. He looked paler than a clean sheet. Robin saw his legs start to shake.
"Ben?" Robin gave his friend a worried look. He reached out and steadied the man before he could topple over, "We need to get you to Tharja."
"Tharja?" Ben echoed.
"Yes, Tharja." Robin led Ben through their cluster of tents towards one that sat on the outskirts of the camp, "Because I think you might be coming down with something."
"Something?"
"Well, you're pale, shaking, and sweaty. Safe to assume you might be feeling ill."
Ben blinked. Oh he felt ill alright. All of that travel and hardship, and he finds Luke by complete accident. The Force must have a sick, twisted sense of humor. His stomach felt like it flipped twelve different times when he stared at the boy for the first time since he lost him. He still struggled to catch his breath. His head swam. Any minute he felt like he would pass out.
Robin burst into the tent, practically carrying Ben as he walked.
"Tharja!"
The Dark Mage was reading in her cot. Her shadowy eyes flicked up from her text.
"Robin?"
She seemed surprised. Her eyes widened when she saw Ben. The Dark Mage jumped from her cot and strode over to him. Her fingers gripped his chin. She moved his head side to side.
"I think he might be ill. What do you think? Food poisoning?" Robin said.
Tharja frowned, "He's not ill. Just stunned." She opened her spell book, "Robin set him down on my cot then go over to my travel pack."
"Uh… sure?" Robin set Ben down. The swordsman toppled over as soon as he did. Thankfully, he fell onto a pillow instead of onto the hard ground. Robin rushed over to Tharja's travel gear, "What do you need from here?"
"The vial with the thick, red liquid."
Robin fumbled through a bunch of different vials filled with all sorts of liquids. Some translucent. Others nebulous. Most of them probably poison of some sort. He finally found the one he needed at the very bottom of the pack.
He handed the vial over to Tharja. The dark mage popped the cork free and placed a dab of the red liquid on her finger. She then moved over to Ben and rubbed the red liquid beneath his nose.
The swordsman's nose wrinkled. His face screwed up in pain. He shot upright and let out a loud hiss. His eyes watered and his nose turned a bright red color.
"Immortal gods of the Sith, what the hell is that!?" Ben cried as he sniffled and wiped at his eyes.
Tharja shrugged, "Chili sauce."
Robin's jaw fell open as Tharja placed the bottle back in her travel pack.
"Chili sauce?" Robin asked.
"You wanted me to snap him out of whatever stupor he was in. So I did."
"No dark spell?" Robin asked.
"Well, I could have done that. But then we would not be able to talk to him for several hours." Tharja replied.
"Why."
"It's better that I don't go into the details." Tharja replied with a wave of her hand, "Now then, Ben, what is-" She stopped when she saw the look on Ben's face.
Pure melancholy mixed with complete shock. He stared off into space for a few moments. Mind struggling to wrap around something.
"He thinks he found Luke." Robin explained to Tharja.
"He did?" Tharja said surprised.
"I did." Ben breathed.
"Well where is he?" Tharja asked.
Ben sucked in a deep breath and placed his head in his hands. His palms rubbed his eyes.
"With Princess Say'ri."
Robin furrowed his brow, "Why would Luke be with Say'ri? Does she have a second sibling or-" He saw the surprised look on Tharja's face. Robin paused and thought hard for a moment, "Oh…"
"How is that possible?" Tharja asked.
"I don't know. But I know Prince Kage is him." Ben let his body fall back against the tent's wall, "None of this makes any sense to me."
"Now that you mention it, Prince Kage does share Luke's physical characteristics. Except for the fact that he is nearly three years old!" Robin exclaimed, "Luke is only about a year old."
"I know that." Ben replied, voice soft and distant, "But I know what I felt. I know what I saw."
Tharja furrowed her brow, "Felt?"
Ben nodded, "I witnessed the Prince use the Force. When I investigated further, his signature in the Force was nearly identical to Luke's. Something like that can not be confused or mistaken for anything else."
Robin stared at Ben in disbelief, "Well… that'll complicate things."
"How so?" Tharja asked.
"We can't just take Prince Kage from Princess Say'ri."
"Why not?" Tharja shrugged, "Just steal the baby."
"Tharja! We can't just go around stealing babies." Robin cried, "Naga above."
"He is Ben's child. She cannot just keep him. Especially once she learns Ben is the father."
"I'm not the father." Ben breathed.
Both Tharja and Robin froze. The pair stared hard at Ben.
"What do you mean you're not the father?" Robin asked, completely confused and starting to grow more than a little frustrated, "If he's not yours then whose is he?"
Tharja frowned. As she stared at Ben, she saw guilt and regret flash across his face. The same look he had whenever they spoke of his first apprentice.
"He's Anakin's." Tharja said.
Ben slowly nodded his head.
"Anakin's?" Robin drew back, "Now who the hell is Anakin?" Robin put his hands on his hips, "Will one of you please explain to me what the hell is going on? I'm clearly out of the loop on something that is very important."
"Robin." Tharja hissed, scaring the tactician a little bit.
Robin gulped, "S-sorry. I'm just frustrated I guess. We traveled all this way to find Luke. And now I find out he's not even Ben's child. That is kind of an important detail to not mention." Robin blinked, "Wait, where is Luke's mother then? Did you steal a baby Ben?"
Ben snorted, "I did not steal a baby. I was there when his mother died. She gave him to me."
"And why not his father, Anakin?" Robin asked.
"Because Ben had already killed Anakin at that point." Tharja answered for the weary swordsman.
Robin blinked. His brain felt like it had whiplash as he struggled to comprehend what he was hearing.
"What!?"
"Anakin is the traitor that helped wipe out the Jedi Order." Tharja explained to Robin, "He was also Ben's apprentice."
Realization dawned on Robin's face. His previous frustrations melted away.
"Oh." Robin breathed, "That… that's a lot."
Ben nodded, "Anakin was responsible for the death of Luke's mother as well. Because of what he did, she died in childbirth. Leaving Luke to me." Ben let out a heavy breath, "And now I have found him after losing him. And I don't know what to do."
"Steal the baby." Tharja suggested.
"Or," Robin interjected, "We explain this whole situation to Say'ri and deal with this in a much more diplomatic way."
"If you think Say'ri is parting with her little brother, you are very much mistaken." Tharja pointed out, "She risked life and limb to rescue him. And at this point, she is the one raising him. No, the only reasonable path is-"
"We are not stealing any babies." Robin groaned as he pinched the bridge of his nose.
"There is a third option." Ben spoke up.
Both Shepherds looked at Ben.
"He stays with Say'ri."
It made sense in the end to Ben. Luke was not Luke anymore. He was Prince Kage of Chon'sin. That was a far better life than the boy could ever have with him. Besides, it still lined up with Master Yoda's initial intentions for the boy. The aged Jedi Master originally wanted Ben to take Luke to his family on Tatooine. A perfect place to hide from the Empire.
And somehow, Chon'sin might be an even better place. A small nation on an unknown planet in the galaxy. Beyond Sidious's reach. With a loving family to cherish the boy. Ben still felt reluctant to let him go. But this felt right. The Force had guided him to this point. To seeing Luke… Kage… happily playing with his older sister. Filled with cheer and innocence.
He could hear Qui Gon's wisdom. Be mindful of the Living Force. That is what his old Master always told him. Ben struggled with that concept his entire life. But now, as he lived in exile on a strange new world; he was slowly starting to understand. Yes, Luke needed to stay with Say'ri. Why? Ben did not know why. But he had a feeling if he took the boy, a chain of events would start that would lead down a dangerous path. One the Force did not desire to see come about.
"Are you sure about that Ben?" Robin asked.
Ben pursed his lips and nodded, "Yes. I'm sure." He drew a deep breath. His racing heart finally started to calm down, "Say'ri is the boy's family. Not me. And besides, we are friends with her now. I can always keep in contact once the Embargo is over and trade resumes between Valm and Archanea."
Robin blinked, "You aren't even going to stay in Chon'sin?"
Ben shook his head, "That… I have a feeling that my place is not in Chon'sin. But in Ylisse. The Force brought me to all of you. I think I would be foolish to not see its will through."
Robin pressed his lips together, "I'm still a little confused."
Ben snorted, "You and I both. I will have a lot to meditate upon this evening." He let out a long groan, "And I'll have Dooku nearby as I try to do that."
"You could meditate here." Tharja suggested.
Ben gave the dark mage a small smile. Tharja smiled a little back.
"If you're more comfortable with that."
Ben nodded, "I think I shall take you up on that offer."
Robin hummed, "So… do we tell Say'ri?"
Ben shook his head, "No. Let Say'ri raise the boy as her own. Let him have a childhood free of such worries and questions. And if I ever do become a part of his life, I will just be a friendly uncle."
Robin laughed, "Uncle Ben? Huh.. it has a nice ring to it."
"It does." Tharja chuckled a little bit.
Robin nodded. He them jumped.
"Oh crap! Dinner! We need to get going. The officer's mess is all the way across camp."
Ben chuckled as Robin rushed out of the tent.
"Food will always get him moving." He glanced at Tharja and held out his arm, "Shall we go enjoy an extremely awkward formal dinner together?"
Tharja chuckled and took his arm.
"Of course."
The pair exited the tent. As soon as they stepped out, Ben locked eyes with Dooku. The old man stared at Ben and Tharja. A mixture of amusement and surprise on his face. The count chuckled a little as he walked towards the mess tent.
Tharja felt Ben tense.
"So, will you be trying to kill him? Or will he try to kill you while we eat?" Tharja asked.
Ben let out a long sigh and let his head fall back.
"I thought I would only have to worry about Marth and Kage killing each other. I forgot about him."
Tharja snickered as she walked with Ben.
"I think I'm going to enjoy this dinner."
"Of course you are."
The next morning came far faster than Marth would have liked. She rolled over in her cot and stretched her arms over her head. Her joints popped. Tension rushed from her body. But then the knots in her muscles returned. And with it the tension.
Last night's dinner went well enough. There was not much discussion. Most of the people in attendance were too busy being wary of both Kage and the old man, Dooku, in order to strike up fun conversation. General Yen'fay himself was a quiet man. More prone to enjoy conversation than spark any of his own. The only source of mirth the entire night had come from Prince Kage. The toddler had managed to elicit a few laughs from the adults. But those faded fast.
Thank Naga it's over now.
She swung her legs out of bed and slipped her boots over her feet. With a long groan, she rose to her feet. Her legs felt so stiff. Gods, she needed a proper rest. While she did not want to go home without fulfilling her goal of confronting Kage, she was glad to be returning. Her body needed the chance to rest and recover for the trials to come.
A small snort then long snore hit Marth's ears. She glanced across the tent at Cynthia. Fast asleep. One leg dangling off of the cot. Her head beneath a tilted pillow. Blankets a haphazard mess over her body.
I wish I could sleep that good.
She would let Cynthia sleep a little while longer. It was still early. The ship to take them all back to Archanea would not be ready for another hour or so.
Marth stepped out of her tent into the cool morning air. A small fog had settled over the camp. Some campfires still burned from the previous night. A few sentries patrolled the many rows of tents. Other than that, the camp was quiet as the sun slowly peeked over the horizon.
A long sigh left Marth's dry lips. She needed some water. Her legs quickly carried her towards the mess tent. The cooks were already starting to cook breakfast for the army. She would eat a light meal, drink some water, then go wake Cynthia. Then they would both pack up and go home.
She stepped into the tent and froze. One other person sat in the Mess Tent. The one person she both wanted to see, and dreaded to see.
Kage glanced over his shoulder at her. He did not say a word as she strode past him and grabbed a glass of water from a water barrel. She took a long gulp; let out a loud, satisfied sigh, then took a seat across from him.
No words passed between the two. Her eyes bored holed into him. And his eyes refused to meet her own.
"So…" Marth began, "You told my sister I was dead."
Kage snorted, "That's what you're hung up on."
"Damn asshole." Marth spat.
Kage inhaled, "Yeah," He shifted uncomfortably in his seat, "You're not wrong there."
Marth blinked in surprise. He just admitted he was a terrible person. What exactly happened to him in Valm?
"I did think you were dead though." Kage continued. The fingers on his right hand tapped anxiously on the table between them. He nodded his head, "I felt your life leave your body."
"Oh it did." Marth relished the guilt that rushed over his face as she took a sip of water, "And you did nothing to try and prevent it."
"Maul told me he was not interested in killing you."
"And you believed him?" Marth asked in disbelief.
Kage let out a heavy sigh, "Yes." He leaned back in his seat, "Go ahead. Call me a fool. I deserve it."
"You're a damn fool."
Kage nodded, "I deserve that too."
Marth shook her head and stared away from him for a moment. The more she spoke to him, the tighter her hand gripped her cup of water.
"Luci?"
Anger sparked inside of her. He had the gall to call her that? After everything that had happened? After everything he had done to her and her friends.
"Do you-" Kage paused, "Do you think we will ever be friends again?"
The question caught Marth off guard. Friends? He wanted to be friends?
She shook her head.
"No." She watched as his face fell, "Not after everything you have done. Not after you tried to kill me and the other Shepherds."
Kage inhaled, exhaled, then nodded, "I understand."
Why was he being so damn agreeable right now!? This was not what Marth expected when she finally confronted him. She thought he would be more defensive. Filled with excuses. Try to pin the blame on anyone other than himself. But this entire time, he took all of the blame. Admitted to his failings. Why did that fluster her so much? That was what she wanted after all.
The rich scent of eggs and bacon filled Marth's nose. But she had lost her appetite.
"I need to go wake Cynthia." She said.
"Marth."
She stopped as she made her way out of the Mess tent.
"I'm sorry." Kage said, "I felt I should say that. For what little it is probably worth now."
Marth did not turn around. She instead took a deep breath and strode out of the tent. Content with cutting him off from the rest of her life.
She quickly strode back to her tent and burst inside.
"Wake up already, Cynthia." Marth barked as she reached for her travel gear and began to make sure everything was in its proper place.
Her sister mumbled in her sleep and turned over. Both of her eyes slowly winked open. Cynthia opened her mouth into a noiseless yawn and stretched her arms over her head. She gave Marth a sleepy wave of her hand.
"Good morning to you too." Marth replied grumpily as she strapped the remains of Falchion to her hips.
Cynthia wiped some sleep from her eyes and bounced out of her cot. She stretched her arms high over her head once again then went to pack her dented armor.
"Hurry up with your packing." Marth said, "I think the others have already gone to the harbor."
Cynthia frowned and made an eating motion. Acting like she was scooping spoonfuls of food into her gaping mouth.
"If you wanted to eat, you should have woken up earlier."
She stuck her tongue out at Marth.
"Don't give me the attitude. I'm not in the mood." Marth grumbled back.
Cynthia folded her arms over her chest and frowned. She then spelled out a big 'k' in the air with her finger.
"Yes." Marth sighed, "I just got done talking to him."
Cynthia tapped her foot impatiently.
"Perhaps he is not an evil monster." Marth finally admitted, "But that does not mean I forgive him for what he has done. And he is still an asshole."
Cynthia looked like she wanted to argue. But she stopped, thought for a moment, then bobbed her head. Admitting that Marth may be right on that point.
"I still don't know how you tolerated him for as long as you did." Marth huffed as she threw her travel pack over her shoulders.
Cynthia shrugged. She then gave Marth a sweet and innocent smile.
"Nevermind. I forgot you can be just as insane as him."
Cynthia folded her arms and jabbed her tongue out.
Marth rolled her eyes.
"Just pack already!"
Robin and Ben stood side by side at the bottom of the ship's gangplank. The cool morning air rushing over Charlet from the sea refreshed both of them as they struggled to get rid of morning grogginess. Ben took a deep breath of the salty air and let out a satisfied sigh.
"Hey, you know something." Robin said as they stood waiting for the others to show up.
"What?" Ben asked.
"In the end, we accomplished our mission. We found both Marth and Luke." Robin chuckled and scratched the back of his head, "The needles in the proverbial haystack have been found."
Ben softly chuckled as well, "Yes. I suppose you are correct."
Robin noticed Ben's somewhat melancholy demeanor.
"Are you still sure about this course?"
Ben nodded, "I am." He folded his arms over his body, "I'm just still coming to terms with it."
Robin gave his friend a pat on the back.
"It'll all work out in the end."
Ben nodded. Both men glanced over at the harbor entrance. General Yen'fay and Princess Say'ri marched into the harbor. Yen'fay carried a slumbering Prince Kage in his arms. Behind them were the other Shepherds in all of their weary glory. All of their gear seemed accounted for. Although Anna had some extra stuff. The few personal items her sister possessed. And on her head was her sister's red beret.
"Good morning." Donnel said as he made his way up the gangplank.
Gaius just grunted at both Ben and Robin. Panne smiled at the duo as she prodded Gaius along. Anna did not even take a second look back at Valm as she strode up onto the ship. Laurent let out a wistful sigh.
"I wish I could stay and study this place. So much to learn. So much culture and history."
"Get on the boat, Laurent." Robin sighed.
The scholar scampered up onto the ship. Dooku slowly sauntered up the gangplank.
"It has been some time since I went sailing."
"I'm sure." Ben groaned.
Finally, Tharja dragged herself to the gangplank. Ben opened his mouth to tease her.
"One word," Tharja warned, "And I cast the same silencing hex on you as I did on Cynthia."
Ben chuckled and waved at her as she trudged up onto the deck. Ben glanced back at Say'ri and Yen'fay. He saw Kage had joined the pair. The young Sith Lord waited awkwardly behind Say'ri as the Princess wrapped Cynthia in a tight embrace. The pair had become fast friends during the quest to rescue the little Prince. Marth waited patiently for her sister to break away.
Cynthia finished hugging Say'ri. As she pulled away, Ben saw Say'ri whisper something to Cynthia. The silent girl nodded and glanced uncertainly at Marth. She bounced over to Marth and made a flurry of hand motions.
"Cynthia, I can't understand your strange sign language." Marth sighed.
"She wants to stay." Say'ri said.
Cynthia nodded.
"Stay?" Marth drew back shocked, "Wh-why?"
"Something about finding more friends in Valm." Say'ri translated.
Marth furrowed her brow, "I don't think this is a good idea."
Cynthia rolled her eyes and started counting on her fingers.
"Yes, I know you are old enough to make your own decisions." Marth sighed, "That doesn't mean I have to like them." She flicked her eyes up at Kage, "You hurt her. I will find you and hurt you."
Kage nodded, "Not a hair on her head will be out of place when you two see each other again."
Cynthia jumped up and down with joy. She bounced over to Kage and gave him a playful punch to the shoulder. She raised a finger to the air and uttered a silent cheer.
"Yes." Kage let out a small chuckle as he rubbed his shoulder, "The Justice Cabal is reuniting."
"Do not worry, Marth." Say'ri said, "Cynthia will be treated like royalty in Chon'sin. I promise."
"Thank you." Marth took a deep breath. She cast one last warning look and Kage then smiled at her sister, "Take care of yourself, okay?"
Cynthia nodded. Marth shouldered her travel gear and strode over to Ben and Robin.
"Cynthia is not joining us?" Robin asked.
Marth shook her head, "Hopefully this damn Embargo ends soon so I can make sure she is okay eventually."
"I'm sure it will." Ben reassured her, "Now up on the ship, both of you. We need to cast off."
"Right!" Robin nodded and walked with Marth up the gangplank.
Ben took one step onto the gangplank. He cast one last look back at Charlet. Back at Say'ri and Yen'fay. Back to the small child sleeping peacefully in Yen'fay's arms.
A smile crossed Ben's lips. Luke would be safe here. Safe and loved. That was more than Ben could have ever hoped for. His part in the boy's life was over for now.
"Benny! Let's go!" Gaius called from the deck.
"We do not have time to dawdle, Kenobi." Dooku said.
Ben chuckled and strode up the gangplank. As he stepped off of Valmese soil, a part of his life ended as well. It was time for a new adventure to take place. Hopefully one that involved a little more peace and quiet.
He looked forward to it.
And chapter! The quests to find Kage and Marth come to a close. Our characters return home. Say'ri, Yen'fay, both Kages, and Cynthia return to Chon'sin. Ben and his friends return to Ylisse with a new companion in Dooku. This was a fun wrap up chapter for this part of the story. And what a ride this arc was. It proved to be one hell of a challenge. I basically had to create an entire original story arc using these characters. And I loved every second of it. I hope you all did as well. Thank you so much for reading you guys!
We will have two or three chapters of peace and Shepherds shenanigans before the Valm war begins folks. And I am so excited to bring that to life on the page. Oh... and maybe some romance. Hehehehehe.
Anyways, let me know what you all think of this chapter! As always I hope you all enjoyed! Have a nice day!