The Force's Shepherds
Chapter 82
Carrion Isle
Eli Vanto's hands trembled as he paced back and forth inside of Admiral Thrawn's personal quarters. His throat felt dry. Each footstep he took held a numbness to it. He flicked his eyes up at a mirror against the wall. All the color had left his face. A shuddering breath rushed from his lips.
"Panicking will not help, Commander."
Thrawn's even tone slipped into his ears. Vanto stopped his pacing and glanced over at the Chiss Admiral. Thrawn had his back turned to him. His red eyes focused out the expansive viewport. Outside of the Chimaera, an enormous, red giant star loomed. The ship's impressive shielding the only protection for themselves and the crew on board from the immense heat and radiation the mammoth star generated.
Thrawn brought a wine glass to his lips and relaxed.
"How can you be so calm?" Vanto asked bluntly, "We have just provoked Lord Vader on a hunch."
"It is not a hunch." Thrawn replied as he glanced back at Vanto.
"Every imperial record states that Anakin Skywalker died in the Jedi Temple." Vanto argued back.
"And if that is the case, he will come in and not be angry with us." Thrawn replied, "He'll probably be confused instead."
"And if he bursts in here ready to rip us apart?" Vanto gulped.
Thrawn smirked as he looked back out at the massive star. Vanto saw him press a small button on his belt.
"Then we have our confirmation."
A chill swept through the room. The hairs on Vanto's arms stood on end. Fear punched him in the gut. An overwhelming sense of dread seeped into his bones. He could feel cold, dark fingers crawling over his skin. A pressure built up on his mind. He grit his teeth and squeezed his eyes shut.
"Time for an answer."
Thrawn turned on his heel just in time for Lord Vader to storm into his quarters. The imposing figure of Lord Vader towered inside of the room. He stood in the doorway for a moment.
Thrawn stared back at Lord Vader, undeterred and unafraid.
"You may leave Commander." Thrawn ordered.
Vanto blinked, "L-leave?"
"Yes." Thrawn set his wineglass down on a small table near the viewport, "Go to the bridge. Make certain we are still on course."
Vanto gulped. He glanced over at Lord Vader.
He could feel.. whatever was behind those lidless eyes staring at him. Staring into his soul. Burning with hatred and malice. Vanto inched his way around Lord Vader. The Dark Lord's eyes followed him until the door hissed shut.
Vader returned his attention to Admiral Thrawn.
"So," Thrawn began as he folded his arms behind his back, "I see you received my message."
Vader's breathing seemed off. It sounded raspier, rushed. Thrawn smirked. He was furious. So angry that the regulators in that suit of his were struggling to maintain a consistent rhythm.
"Do you have any last words before you die, Admiral?" Vader boomed as one of his fists clenched up at his side.
"He does not."
Vader froze as a blue hologram shimmered into existence beside Admiral Thrawn. Vader dropped to a knee as Emperor Palpatine's form appeared in the hologram.
Vader kept his head bowed.
"Master." His voice rasped as he struggled to contain his rage, "Admiral Thrawn has-"
"I am aware of the Admiral's discovery." The Emperor interrupted, "His determination and intelligence has impressed me. He was able to deduce the identity of Anakin Skywalker without even needing to probe sealed records." The Emperor's lips dipped into a scowl beneath his dark hood, "You need to be more careful with your emotions, apprentice."
Vader reeled. His master defended Thrawn? Why?
"I informed the Emperor of my discovery once we finally established a secure connection back to the core worlds." Thrawn stated, "I was… uncertain if he was fully aware of General Skywalker's fate."
Vader raised his gaze at the emotionless Chiss. Force, he hated the man now. Thrawn was smart enough to know that Anakin Skywalker's fate was known to the Emperor. He simply called to gloat.
A low cackle came from the Emperor's hologram.
"I must admit, I was rather surprised when the Admiral confronted me on the matter. Rest assured Lord Vader, neither Admiral Thrawn nor Commander Vanto will speak of this ever again." The Emperor let out a heavy sigh, "And this incident has proven that my faith in Thrawn's intelligence was not misplaced. I trust him to handle matters regarding your mission."
"Your excellency," Thrawn said, "May I ask what our mission entails exactly?"
The Emperor's gaze turned to Thrawn. The Chiss Admiral remained emotionless as he spoke.
"I believe that I would be able to accomplish the objective of this mission in a more efficient and swift manner if I was made aware of the objective." Thrawn explained.
"You are already aware of the objective, Admiral. You are to find our unknown planet."
"I am to find someone on that unknown planet, am I not? Or perhaps something?"
The Emperor remained eerily quiet. Lord Vader glanced back and forth between Thrawn and his master. The Chiss was either insane, courageous, or a damn fool. No one spoke out of turn like that to the Emperor. Not even himself.
"Your… inquisitiveness surprises me, Admiral." The Emperor said quietly, "How are you so certain that I am asking you to search for someone?"
"A planet can be easily found with probes given enough time." Thrawn stated, "But finding a person requires a much more… refined search than probes allow. A more personal touch if you will." Thrawn unfolded his hands and turned to look at the Emperor's hologram, "Besides, I have my theories regarding why you are searching for someone on an unknown planet. Some of which line up with Jedi teachings in the force."
"Do you now?" The Emperor folded his hands into the sleeves of his robe.
Vader stared nearly dumbstruck at Thrawn. He knew more than Vader thought. Not only did Thrawn discover his identity, he also learned that his mission had an objective beyond discovering a new planet. And he already suspected what the endgame of their mission actually was.
This one is too intelligent.
The Emperor opened his mouth to speak. A small crash sounded from behind him. A girl's voice hollered a loud sorry. The Emperor scowled while both Vader and Thrawn looked at him in confusion.
"Lord Vader, you will inform Thrawn of the full extent of this mission." His wrinkled lips curled into a villainous smirk, "I think that'll be plenty reward for his display of intellect. After which, you both will continue working together on this mission. Once the objective is achieved, you are to return immediately to Coruscant."
"As you wish, your excellency." Thrawn bowed at the waist.
"Yes, my master." Vader thrummed as he bowed his head again.
The hologram shimmered and faded away. Once the Emperor's presence disappeared, Vader rose to his feet. And he could not miss the smug smirk on Thrawn's lips.
"So, Lord Vader." Thrawn reached for his wine glass. He gently swirled the red liquid, "Care to inform me of our true objective?"
Lord Vader resisted the urge to crush the Chiss with the force. His master wanted the Admiral alive. The Emperor deemed him a useful tool. One that could not be discarded yet. If that were not the case, then he would have allowed Vader to kill him already.
Vader rose to his feet. He towered over the smaller Chiss. But his imposing size did not disturb the blue skinned man. His emotions remained even. Though the smugness on his face remained for a few seconds.
"Our objective is the capture of a young woman named Lucina." Vader answered.
Thrawn nodded. He sipped his wine, "Species?"
"Human."
Thrawn hummed to himself, "A young human woman on an unknown planet in the middle of one of the most inhospitable portions of the galaxy. Quite the puzzle." Thrawn took another sip of wine, "And why do we want to find her?"
Vader grit his teeth behind the mask, "The Emperor wishes to ask her questions."
"Regarding?"
"Her resurrection."
Thrawn quirked an eyebrow, "Resurrection? That's… even more puzzling. It confirms my theory regarding this search. But it also opens up even more questions."
"None of which will be answered by me." Vader snarled as he pointed a finger at Thrawn's face, "Step out of line again, and not even the Emperor will save you from my wrath."
Thrawn smirked back at him, "Understood, Lord Vader."
A comm link buzzed on the Admiral's belt. Thrawn set his wine down and grabbed the comm link.
"A-admiral?" Vanto stammered on the comm, "Oh please tell me you aren't dead."
"I am alive, Commander." Thrawn answered. He heard a massive sigh of relief from the other end, "How goes our course?"
"Probes are nearly finished mapping this system. Still no sign of a habitable planet nearby. We may have to move on to the next star cluster."
"Then do so once the last probe data comes in. We do not want to dally on this mission." Thrawn clicked the communicator off and glanced at Lord Vader, "We still have not finished our game of dejarik."
Vader turned on his heel and left. His rage seething silently behind the mask.
….
Ben rubbed his brow. The back of his hand flicked small beads of sweat away from his eyes. Beneath his feet, the deck of the small ferry bobbed up and down in the gentle waves between the mainland and Carrion Isle.
He could see the dock across the small channel. A little port for the ferry. Meant for personal usage rather than any sort of common purpose. A small yacht was tied up to the dock as the ferry approached. Judging by the ornate woodwork on the yacht's sides, Ben guessed it belonged ot the Plegian King.
A drop of sweat ran down the bridge of his nose. Ben reached up and wiped his brow again. The sun had started to set, but that did nothing to end the stifling heat.
"I grew up here and all." Ben glanced over at Gaius. The theif lay sprawled out on the deck of the ferry. Shirt open, bare chest pointed up at the darkening sky as he tried to cool off, "But Naga its too damn hot."
Ben let out a small chuckle, "Used to the cold now?"
"I'm used to comfortable now. Which Ylisstol is." Gaius retorted before letting his head fall back to the deck of the ferry.
Ben shook his head. Gaius, always the complainer. Even with Panne looking over his shoulder, it never stopped him from speaking his mind. Ben let out a small sigh.
The other Shepherds stood on the deck of the ferry as well. Chrom stood near the bow of the ferry. Eyes focused on the approaching shoreline. Gaze hard and unwavering. Ben could feel his tension through the force. The Prince objected to this plan from the very start. He did not see Plegia as a possible ally. And likely, he never would.
Robin stood alongside Chrom. The tacician looked at the island with a student's curiosity rather than a leader's grim resolve. Ben could understand his curiosity. The mainland shore behind them was pure desert. Hardly a drop of water hit those sandy shores. But the island in front of them was dotted with tall palms. While mostly rocky, the island held more plantlife than all of Plegia, in Ben's opinion.
No wonder it is the King's summer home. Ben thought to himself, It seems to be the only pleasant place in this land.
Khan Basilio relaxed on the deck. The older Khan not worried a bit about this meeting. He had been through enough negotiations and close scrapes to be confident in his assessment of the situation. Ben agreed with him. If Archanea was to fight Valm successfully, they would need Plegia's help. Specifically their ships and gold. Without a well funded and supplied navy, the Valmese could land on their shores with impunity. It would only be a matter of time before they gained a foothold.
Ambassador Olivia sat beside Khan Basilio. And beside her sat Virion. Ben did not miss the bashful glances Olivia threw Virion's way. The archer had a penchant for charm. And it had worked on the Feroxi ambassador. Ben did notice Virion paying much more attention to Olivia compared to any other woman he seduced. There was a tenderness to his voice. A genuine smile on his lips. Virion's feelings for the woman ran deep. Perhaps even deeper than Virion was willing to admit.
Panne lay on the deck beside Gaius. Her waterskin rested in her lap as she struggled to stave off the scorching heat. Every so often, Ben heard the Taguel let out a few animalistic pants. When that happened. Gaius would perk up, give her a quick scratch on her head, then fall back down onto his back.
Near the stern of the ferry stood Donnel, Lon'qu, and Lissa. Lissa peppered Donnel with questions about the boy's surprising relationship with Duchess Maribelle. Much as she had done the past few days actually. Ben could tell some of her questions made Donnel feel rather uncomfortable. Lon'qu actually stood rather close to both Lissa and Donnel. Surprising almost everyone on the ferry.
Perhaps he does better around women when in a group setting?
Marth lingered over on the port side of the Ferry. She sat there alone. Eyes closed and legs folded as she meditated in the force. Ben felt some pride at the sight. She took her growth in the force seriously. And her own fear of those powers began to melt away as she grew more used to them. Ben knew she would make a remarkable Jedi Knight.
Frederick and Cordelia stood behind Chrom and Robin. Frederick tense and wary. Cordelia nervous, but more relaxed than Frederick. After all, she did not hold massive amounts of suspicion against half of the ferry's occupants like Frederick did.
Ben heard a small giggle. He glanced over to the ferry's wheel. Nowi had her arms spread out wide as the hot wind blasted against the ferry's single sail. Ricken stood beside her. His pose the exact same. Both cheered loudly as they reveled in a feeling that Nowi described as being similar to flying. Their ferry captain smiled at them as the mage and the manakete laughed loudly and grinned at each other.
A hand slipped into his, drawing Ben out of his observations.
"One of the few beautiful places in Plegia." Tharja breathed as she rested her head against his shoulder, "It's actually a little bit green on that island."
Ben chuckled, "I see that. I wonder why."
Tharja shrugged, "I don't know. I'm a dark mage. Not a scientist."
Ben glanced at her with a quirked eyebrow, "Doesn't that make you a mad scientist?"
Tharja snickered, "Only when I want to be. Althought, on this subject, I'm sure Miriel and Laurent would be better scholars."
She let out a weary breath after she finished speaking. Ben did not agree with Tharja tagging along. Her injuries were still fresh from the battle in Port Ferox. And he tried to convince her to stay behind with the others to recuperate. That ended with him getting a runny nose hex and the threat of another hex that involved giving him stomach cramps for a week. Where he went, Tharja followed. No exceptions or excuses.
Thankfully, Lissa came with as well. The Princess watched Tharja constantly. Her clerical sensibilities always on display whenever she checked up on the injured mage.
"How does it feel to be back?" Ben asked her.
Tharja pressed her lips together, "And not on the run from Risen or a sandstorm?" Ben chuckled with her, "It feels… strange. I'm going to this meeting with the King, not as a member of the Grimleal, but as a traitor and likely a heretic."
"Heretic?" Ben questioned.
"Those who leave the Grimleal for less savory purposes than just wanting out of that life." Tharja remarked, "The mere fact that I left and joined the Shepherds probably caused whoever leads the Grimleal now to name me Naga-spawn. Therefore, an abomination and a heretic."
Ben frowned, "I hope the new regime isn't that extreme."
"It wouldn't surprise me if they were." Tharja breathed, "There are not many moderate thinkers among dark mages."
"You're correct." Ben gave her a mischievous smirk, "Most are rather crazy."
Tharja smacked his shoulder, "I'm not that crazy."
Ben chuckled and leaned down to place a light kiss on her lips. One she eagerly returned.
"Of course you are not."
The ferry approached the dock. A small group of dockworkers scurried across the small wooden space. Some fetched lines of robe and flung them out towards the ferry. The Ferry Captain's first mate snatched one of the ropes and easily tied it off against the bow of the ferry. The dockworkers tugged on the rope and gently guided the ferry up against the dock.
Waiting on the dock for them, was a young Plegian mage. He had white hair and grey eyes. A large grin rested on his pale lips. A heavy, black cape with the typical Grimleal symbolism along the collar rested over his shoulders. A heavy black tome sat in the crook of his right arm. And a jet black crow perched on his left shoulder.
Tharja tensed as she held Ben's hand.
"Oh…" She muttered. Both apprehension and annoyance hung heavy in her voice. "It's him."
"Hello!" The young Grimleal mage gave the group a happy wave as Chrom, Basilio, Robin, and the others stepped off of the Ferry and onto the dock. The dark mage bowed to both Chrom and Basilio, "My King bids you welcome."
"He doesn't bid it himself?" Chrom grumbled.
Basilio gave Chrom a sharp glance, "We thank the King for his invitation. May I ask why he has not greeted us personally?"
The dark mage snickered, "Oh, this is all rather last minute. He is still making sure all the preparations are in place for your arrival. Quite the perfectionist, I must say." The boy's disturbing grin never wavered, "My name is Henry. I will be your tour guide!"
"Tour guide?" Gaius wondered beside Ben.
Henry cackled, "Well, not really your tour guide. More like your shepherd leading you to your pasture. Nya ha ha! Oh I slay me!"
Ben glanced over at Tharja.
"Is he-"
"That crazy?" Tharja nodded, "Yes, he is."
Ben smirked at her, "So I was right."
Tharja glared at him. Ben chuckled as Henry waved for the group to follow him.
"Come along now!" Henry chirped, "No caws for delay." The crow on his shoulder squacked as he cackled quietly, "The King awaits your arrival."
The Shepherds and Basilio hesitated for a moment. Ben could understand their nervousness. There were no armed guards to greet them. No royal servants. Just a lone dark mage from the Grimleal. One that seemed a touch addled in the brain. It seemed very odd and strangely informal for such an important visit.
Tharja remained tense beside Ben as they both trailed behind Chrom, Robin, and Basilio. Her dark eyes fixated on Henry. The other dark mage whistled a happy tune as he led them along a stone path lined with lush, tropical flowers and towering palms.
The path snaked inland towards a large mountain at the center of the island. As they drew closer, Ben could see a large palace nestled into the rock cliffs of the mountain.
Gaius let out a low whistle, "That's quite the summer home."
"I'll say." Donnel muttered as he marched alongside Gaius.
Ben felt Tharja's grip tighten around his hand. Her breathing turned slightly shallow as the march towards the palace grew longer. Ben gave her concerned look.
"I'll be fine." Tharja breathed, noticing his concern.
Ben gave her a small nod. Tharja would not show weakness. And she would not turn back.
"Something about Henry worries you?" Ben whispered to her, sensing her heightened anxiety around the other dark mage.
Tharja inhaled, "Henry is an extremely powerful dark mage." She whispered back to him, "And he is rather… insane. Unpredictable. And for some reason, the King chose him as an envoy to greet us."
Ben nodded, "So this is already off to a bad start in your eyes?"
"A terrible start."
A set of stone steps led up to the palace doors. No walls circled the palace. Clearly, the King did not feel threatened at his summer home. For the first time all day, Ben noticed armed gaurds on the island. Two of them stood vigil at the main doors of the palace. The snapped to attention as Henry approached with Basilio, Chrom, and the Shepherds.
"Welcome to the Summer Palace." Henry beamed back at them. His smile genuine, but somehow unsettling, "I trust it is to your liking?"
"We aren't here on vacation." Chrom growled.
Basilio cleared his throat, "What my friend means to say, is we are here on business. Business we wish to conduct immediately before marveling at this wonderful home."
Henry cackled, "Of course. Of course." He pushed the palace doors open.
Ben blinked in shock. For a nation as poor as Plegia seemed to be, the inside of the palace was opulent. Rich, purple carpets blanketed a polished marble floor. Great marble columns towered around them. Supporting a vaulted cieling with mulitple skylights. Which allowed the hot Plegion sun to send bright beams of light into the palace during the daytime.
More guards stood vigil inside of the Palace's main hall. At the end of the main hall, sitting in front of a large window, rested a golden throne. And upon that golden throne sat a thin, reedy man. Dark purple robes flowed over his nearly skeletal body. His gaunt chin lined with a dark goatee. Yellow eyes practically sunken into his sickly looking face.
Nevertheless, he rose with both confidence and strenght from the throne. He spread his thin arms out wide and gave the group a broad smile as they entered.
"Welcome!" The King of Plegia grinned.
Chrom, Robin, Lissa, and Frederick froze in their tracks. Causing Ben to bump into Frederick's back and Gaius to nearly trip over his own feet.
"What gives Bub-" Gaius sucked in a sharp breath as he caught sight of Plegia's king, "What in the name of Grima, Naga, and all other deities in existence?"
A low snarl rumbled from Panne's chest. Basilio glanced around him at the Shepherds. He gave Ben a concerend look. Ben furrowed his brow. Chrom and the others felt threatened by this King. But why?
"Impossible." Tharja breathed beside Ben.
Ben blinked. He felt waves of fear rushing from Tharja. Terror even. Her hand shook in his as her dark eyes watched the King descend a few steps. The Plegian King sauntered towards the Shepherds. Friendly grin still across his face.
"What trickery is this!?" Frederick blurted out, causing the King to stop in his tracks.
"Trickery?" The Plegian King echoed, some confusion his face.
Chrom gave Frederick a sharp look. The Prince gulped and leaned over towards Robin.
"Robin that's-"
"Validar, I know." Robin whispered back.
"How?" Chrom whispered.
"I have no idea." Robin replied.
Lissa gulped beside Chrom. Robin's hand reached into his inside coat pocket. Ben could sense wave after wave of confusion and fear coming from all three of them. He sensed terror from Tharja.
It clicked. Validar, the man who led the assassination attempt against Emmeryn. The man who killed Tharja's parents. The former high priest of the Grimleal. Robin killed him.
What was he doing here?
Before Chrom and Frederick could say anything else, Basilio stepped in front of the pair.
"Your majesty," Basilio's calm voice hit the air. Ben let out a sigh of relief. The Khan always seemed to remain cool under pressure, "It is a pleasure to finally meet you. I am-"
"Khan Basilio. Of course you are. Who else could you be?" Validar chuckled, "I have heard many a tale of the might of Regna Ferox's west Khan. Those tales do not do you justice it seems. Not only are you a mighty warrior, you are skilled diplomat as well. I think others could learn much from you."
King Validar shook Khan Basilio's hand. He then turned to Prince Chrom.
"And Prince Chrom, I am honored to meet you as well." Chrom's teeth clenched behind his lips as Validar spoke, "I am sure whatever confusion you had regarding my identity was accidental. Perhaps the heat got to you. I know it gets to me sometimes. I may live here, but even I will admit, the sun can have to rather adverse effects if one stays out in it for too long. I hope this meeting between us will begin a new era for our nations. One of peace and friendship."
Validar's bright smile broadened, "And I look forward to entertaining your comrades as well. You all must be the famous Shepherds." Validar's yellow eyes flicked over to Ben and Robin, "And the brilliant tactician and mad swordsman are here as well? Excellent! This shall be a lively little summit then."
"Indeed." Basilio nodded, "May I ask when you wish to begin negotiations?"
Validar chuckled, "Whenever you wish, Khan Basilio. We can even discuss such important matters as Valm over dinner. I am certain the kitchens have nearly finished preparing our meal. If you would follow me please."
Validar nodded over at Henry. The Dark Mage bowed to the Plegian King then slipped away down a nearby corridor. Frederick and Cordelia's gaze followed him while the other Shepherds followed Validar.
Chrom and Robin both hesitated to join King Validar for dinner. But Khan Basilio did not hesitate. And if the Khan felt it was safe to join King Validar's table, then they should feel the same.
Although, Robin felt uneasy. A sick feeling ran through his gut. Something felt terribly wrong here.
He killed Validar. During the failed assassination attempt on Exalt Emmeryn at the start of the war with Plegia, he confronted Validar. Barely defeated the man. Robin remembered him to be an extremely powerful sorcerer. Someone not to be trifled with.
Robin tapped Chrom on the shoulder.
"Be careful." He warned.
"Always am."
"Sure you are." Robin snorted.
Chrom laughed a little bit, "Okay, you've got me there."
Chrom glanced around the corridor they all walked down. Elaborate tapestries hung from the walls. Bright skylights allowed more sunlight to filter down into the corridor. Torches sat unlit on scones in the walls. As the day waned, Chrom had a feeling someone would come by and light them. But he had yet to see any servants beyond the dark mage Henry and a few royal guards.
That concerned him. Back home in Ylisstol, servants bustled about the palace at all times. Day and night, one of them could be found wandering the palace. Going about their daily or nightly business. Whether that was cleaning a room, running an errand, or preparing a meal, the servants were a constant presence.
In this palace, they were missing entirely. It made the entire building feel strangely empty.
Validar pushed a set of rich, wood, double doors open. As he opened his mouth to speak, he froze. The others stopped walking behind him.
The table was set for their entire party. Not a single seat was missing. There were enough plates, cups, and silverware for every Shepherd. Already a disturbing fact since the group never disclosed their numbers before arriving at the island.
Even more puzzling was the man sitting in King Validar's chair at the head of the long dining table. His boot covered feet kicked up on top of the purple tablecloth. Wine glass in one hand as he lounged in the tall throne. Hood drawn up over his head. Identity hidden beneath shadows. Althought Ben could see bright yellow irises peaking out from beneath the gold and purple hood.
"Ah!" The enigmatic man called as he rested easy in Validar's chair, "Welcome Ylisseans and Feroxi. I trust your travels were stress free?"
Robin and Chrom exchanged a puzzle look. The tactician glanced at King Validar. He seemed equally confused. The King's mouth opened and closed as he struggled to formulate a response. Perhaps he struggled to search for a proper scolding of the young man in his throne?
Robin doubted that. He saw some fear in Validar's eyes. Felt a pulse of terror shoot out of him in the force. Robin glanced back at Ben. The swordsman nodded. He sensed it too.
"I don't believe we have made your acquaitance?" Khan Basilio replid, taking charge of the conversation.
"Y-you haven't. Of course." Validar stammered as the hooded man set his glass down and rose from the throne, "Allow me to introduce the Grimleal's Hierophant. The highest of our order."
A shocked gasp left Tharja's lips. Robin glanced over at her. The dark mage's face seemed far paler than normal. Her hold on Ben's hand tightened as the Heirophant's yellow eyes stared at them from the head of the table.
"A pleasure to meet you all." The Hierophant said.
Robin furrowed his brow. Ben seemed just as perplexed. They both heard it. The tone of his voice sounded familiar. The uneasiness inside both men grew.
Frederick cleared his throat.
"I apologize, but it is customary that friends show their faces when introductions are made."
Robin flashed an exasperated look at the Knight-Commander. Did he just have to piss off everyone with his wariness?
The Heirophant remained silent for a moment.
"My apologies." The Hierophant smiled beneath his hood, "I sometimes forget I have this thing on. It keeps the sun from roasting me alive. I am sure you all understand."
The Hierophant threw his hood from his head.
Robin's eyes widened. His heart stopped beating in his chest. A shocked gasp rushed from Lissa's lips. Frederick and Chrom took an uncertain step back. Ben narrowed his eyes and allowed one hand to drift close to the lightsaber hilt against hidden behind a new cloak.
Robin saw himself. But not himself. He saw a man that looked exactly like him. The Hierophant shared every physical feature he had. The same facial structure. Same height. Same body type. Same nose, lips, cheeks, and brow. The only difference between himself and the Hierophant were the Plegian's burning yellow eyes and the snow white hair atop his head.
"Wh-what is this!?" Frederick stammered.
"Do you intend to mock us?" Chrom asked, both disturbed and more than a little angry.
Validar spun around, "Not at all. I will admit, the resemblence between our Hierophant and your tactician is uncanny but-"
"My name is Robin." The Hierophant smirked. Validar puckered his lips and sucked in a sharp, panicked breath as he spoke.
Robin lost his ability to breathe.
"And so is yours, isn't it?" The Hierophant's yellow eyes fell on Robin, "What a strange coincidence."
Robin gulped. Yes, what a strange coincidence indeed.
"There are no coincidences." Ben muttered under his breath.
Robin felt his hairs standing on end. The ill feeling he had in his gut refused to go away. He could not tear his eyes away from the doppelgänger standing across the room from him. Every breath rattled in his chest. A surge of anxiety and panic took hold of him. He closed his eyes for a moment and sought out the comfort of the force. Just as Ben and Marth taught him to do in times of trouble.
It did not heed his call.
"Please," The Hierophant gestured to their places at the table, "Join us. I would be honored to feast with all of you tonight."
He nodded to Validar. The Plegian King cleared his throat.
"Y-yes. Please, take your places. The first course shall be served momentarily. I hope you all like peppers."
Robin hardly felt his body move to his seat beside Chrom and Frederick. Existance felt surreal. Everything seemed hazy. His eyes darted over to Ben. The swordsman seemed relaxed on the surface. But when Robin reached out with the force, he sensed that Ben was hyper alert. He too sensed something strange. Something sinister.
The first course came out. If Robin did not feel so ill, his mouth would have watered at the rich, savory scent. The food sat uneaten in front of him.
Chrom jabbed him with his elbow.
"Don't let them get to you." His friend whispered.
Robin gulped. He grabbed his fork and took a reluctant bite of food. He was unable to focus. He did not even hear Basilio's shock as Validar agreed to provide all of Plegia's ships and completely fund the war effort against Valm.
The sound of a spoon tapping against glass rang in his head. Robin shakily glanced over at the Hierophant and Validar. The Hierophant rose from his seat and raised his wine glass.
"To a new era." He grinned at all of them. Robin felt like he was going to vomit as those yellow eyes fell on him.
"One of peace and order."
….
Robin lay flat on his bank. The bed beneath him felt comfortable. His body practically sank into the soft mattress. The luxurious silk sheets lay in a heap off to the side. The air far too hot for those.
Under any other circumstances he would have fallen fast asleep in a matter of moments. He felt tired. The journey to Carrion Isle had been an exhausting one. The Shepherds hardly stopped marching during the trek south from Port Ferox. Each limb felt heavy on his body.
But he could not sleep. His mind continued to race despite his own exhaustion.
Who in Naga's name was the Hierophant? A doppelgänger? A twin? Something else. Something unexplainable. Robin ran his hands over his face.
Sleep would elude him tonight. The tactician rose from his bed and sat on the edge.
He shared a room with Frederick. The Knight Commander had entered the bedroom after dinner and some further negotiations, flopped down on his mattress, and passed out. Robin wished he could do the same. But he could not tear his thoughts away from what he saw tonight.
So, he slipped his boots back onto his feet, slid his arms into the sleeves of his coat, and quietly left the room.
Dim torchlight lit up the corridor outside of his room. The orange glow of the torches flickered with each passing breeze. For some reason, the shadows in this palace seemed darker than normal shadows. The air felt hot, but it did not warm Robin.
He tiptoed his way down the hall towards another door. Robin paused. He saw orange torchlight flickering beneath the door. They were still awake
He hesitated, then knocked.
Silence. Robin waited patiently. The doorknob turned.
Ben appeared as the door opened. He seemed just as wide awake as Robin. Although, he did not have a shirt on.
"Robin?" Ben asked.
Robin cringed, "Am I interrupting anything?"
Ben let out a small chuckle, "Not at all. Come in."
Robin stepped past Ben into the room. He flushed a little bit when he saw Tharja lying in their bed. Her tome open in her hands. Reading by candlelight. Her dark eyes flicked up to Robin as he inched his way in.
"Hello Robin." She said with a small smile as she set the book face down on her lap.
"Hi." Robin muttered as he thrusted his hands into his coat pockets.
Ben closed the door.
"Can't sleep either?" Ben asked.
Robin shook his head, "Not a wink. I'm sure you know why."
Ben nodded as he crossed the room. Tharja flicked her wrist. A small ball of fire shot from her fingertips and hit an unlit torch near the window. The torch burst to life right away. Washing the room with even more warm, orange light.
Ben let out a small sigh as he sank down on the edge of the bed beside Tharja. Robin remained standing. Eyes looking at his feet. Like a small nervous child. He snorted to himself.
"I don't know what the hell is going on anymore."
Ben exhaled, "I feel the same way."
Both men glanced at Tharja. The dark mage frowned.
"Don't look at me. I have no idea how either of them exist." Tharja huffed and folded her arms.
Ben nodded, "I hate to admit it, but I wish Dooku was here."
Tharja arched an eyebrow while Robin looked puzzled.
"Why didn't he come along again?" Tharja asked.
"Something about feeling tired and wanting to recuperate." Ben explained, "That, and he did not trust any of the idiots in the Feroxi military to put together a proper defensive front."
Robin frowned, "He does know the Feroxi are a warrior people, right?"
"Does it matter? He's still an ass." Ben sighed, "And I could use his help right about now. If anyone knows how Validar could possibly be alive, it would be him."
Robin gave Ben a puzzled look, "How would he know?"
Ben glanced over at Tharja. The dark mage shrugged back. Ben let out a heavy sigh.
"Robin, do not repeat what I am about to say to you. It could cause a lot of problems."
Robin furrowed his brow. Ben rubbed his hands together while Tharja remained completely silent.
"Dooku would possibly know how Validar is alive because Dooku is also supposed to be dead."
Robin blinked. Dooku was supposed to be dead?
"What?" Robin shook his head as he struggled to process this information, "Dooku is supposed to be dead? Like… how? What? Do you- do you mean you thought he was dead or-"
"Oh no," Ben cut him off, "Dooku is supposed to be very dead."
"Like dead dead?"
Ben nodded, "Headless even."
Robin blanched. His legs felt weak and shaky. Robin reached out and braced himself against the end of Ben and Tharja's mattress.
"Um…" Robin swallowed hard, "So… how?"
Ben shrugged, "We have no idea. There are so many unexplainable things popping up recently. I can hardly make sense of any of them myself."
Robin gulped. His hand kept shaking as he sank down onto the end of the mattress.
"Dooku's supposed to be dead." Robin let out a shaky breath, "Validar is supposed to be dead. And I have a look alike leading the Grimleal." He ran one hand through his brown hair, "Naga, what the hell is going on anymore?"
Ben pursed his lips, "I doubt we will get an answer to that question." He shifted in his seat, "Speaking of the Hierophant-"
"No, I've never met him before in my life nor have I ever heard of him." Robin said quickly, "I was just as shocked as you all when he made both his appearance and identitiy known." The tactician's gaze turned to Tharja, "Do you know him?"
Tharja shook her head, "Hierophants are keepers of knowledge in the order. You'll rarely see one outside of the archives. Even then, they are not people a normal mage talks to. Only the High Priest really know them."
"There's the answer to that question." Ben remarked, "The Hierophant is a new piece on the board then."
"And he shares both my name and my appearance." Robin patted the side of his head, "Except for the hair and eyes. Other than that, he's like an exact copy of me. Right down to how he eats even."
"One thing at a time. Never mixing any of the foods together. " Tharja nodded.
Ben and Robin gave her a dumbfounded look.
Tharja rolled her eyes, "You both know I was obsessed with Robin at one point. Not like I hid that bit."
"Perhaps, the Hierophant is using some sort of spell to rattle us?" Ben suggested, "An illusion of some sort?"
"That would be one hell of an illusion." Tharja muttered.
"It would take an obscene amount of power to pull off. And we would notice the drain on his magical energy." Robin stated, "No, it was not an illusion."
Ben rubbed his chin as he furrowed his brow. There had to be a reason for Robin's doppelganger. But for the life of him, he could not think of any.
"A twin?" Ben wondered.
Robin blinked, "That's possible. I must have had a family before I lost my memories."
"Given your magical strength, it would make sense if your entire bloodline is powerful." Tharja noted, "That begs the question, why would your twin have the same exact name as you?"
Robin shook his head, "Honestly, who knows if Robin even is my name anymore? Perhaps I misremembered and recalled my twin's name and not my own."
"Doubtful, but plausible." Ben nodded. He glanced over at Tharja. "Can you do anything with your scrying?"
Tharja shook her head, "I cannot scry a memory Robin does not remember. The furthest I can go into his mind would be to when Chrom found him. Beyond that, it would be impossible."
Robin frowned, "So it will remain a mystery."
Ben nodded, "For now. I'm sure the truth will be revealed in time." He gave Robin a reassured pat on his back, "Do not let it overwhelm you. Focus on the here and now. That is where your mind belongs."
Robin let out another shaky breath, "Yeah." He muttered, "I do worry about Validar and the Hierophant trying something though."
"If they do, we will know." Ben replied, "I'm remaining vigilant. And I guarantee Marth is just as wary as you."
"If they try anything they will learn the fury of the Shepherds when provoked." Tharja snarled.
Ben nodded, "Exactly. The best thing you can do right now Robin is rest. We can figure out what to do next in the morning."
Robin rubbed the back of his neck, "Okay." He uttered a small yawn, "Back to bed then. At least I have the ultimate watchman sleeping nearby."
"Frederick?" Ben said with a small laugh.
"Who else?" Robin chuckled back as he stood up again.
Robin quietly moved towards the door. He wished both Ben and Tharja goodnight before quickly exiting and returning to the dark corridor.
As he made his way back to his room. He felt a strange, cold feeling creeping up his spine. He paused outside of his door. Hand around the knob. A voice, quiet as a whisper, cut through the air. Making his blood run cold.
"Son."
….
The Heirophant folded his hands behind his back. Torchlight flickered off of the walls in his personal quarters in the King's summer home. The window to his room was open. Allowing warm air to flow into the room from the desert in the east. His yellow eyes stared out that same window. Focused on the shore across the narrow strait between the island and mainland Plegia.
"The summit went well today."
"No one died. I'm dissapointed."
"No one was supposed to die." The Hierophant sighed, "We were supposed to lower their guard."
"That little stunt you pulled with your name and appearance did little to help in that regard."
"Bah!" The Hierophant moved away from the window and marched over to his bookshelf.
This bookshelf held far fewer books than the one back at the Plegian Capital. Something he felt rather dissapointed about. He enjoyed reading. It was one of the few activities he enjoyed from his old life that he could still do in his new form.
"That was for my pleasure more than anything else." The Hierophant said as he ran a finger along the spine of a row of books, "Did you see the look on Robin's face?"
"I saw the look on all of their faces. They are wary of you."
"They would be wary of me no matter what I did." The Hierophant sighed, "After all, I rule the Grimleal."
"You rule Plegia."
"Good correction."
The Hierophant let out a small laugh, 'Validar did look quite surprised by our attendance. We'll likely hear from him tomorrow after the Shepherds are gone."
"If he mouths off, I'll eat him."
"No."
"Please? I'm so hungry."
The Hierophant snatched a black tome from the bookshelf. The other two voices silenced themselves.
"You will feed tonight."
He marched over to his door and cracked it open. One guard stood outside of the door. A heavily armored knight with a sharp, steel sword at his side.
"Soldier, I require your assistance."
The Hierophant smirked when he saw the knight's eyes widened behind his visor. The Beast chuckled as he sensed fear radiating the knight.
He shut the door behind knight. The armored man stepped into the dim torchlight. The Heiorphant circled him for a moment.
"Yes. You will do."
"D-do what, milord?"
Terror rushed out of the knight as a shadow emerged from the Hierophant body. The Knight tried to utter a scream, but the shadow shot into his mouth and down his throat before he could. The poor sod rose in the air as the shadow suspended him with dark tendrils. The Hierophant's eyes glowed with delight as the man's life drained from his body.
His husk fell to the floor. The armor hung loose over a sack of bones and skin. Void of any meat and blood. The Hierophant licked his lips as the shadow erupted out of the husk's lifeless form and seeped back into his own body.
"Tasty. Lot's of lean meat."
"I do not want the details. Also, may I ask why? You do not want to alert Kenobi to our true powers. He is already wary."
"What could he possibly do?" The Hierophant chuckled, "If he knew who I really was, he would have acted already. Him and the rest of his ilk are still in the dark."
Black tendrils of magic and smoke spilled forth from the black tome. It swirled around the Knight's husk.
"But still, we need to gauge our enemy. Kenobi is different than the future. He's much more involved. You heard Khan Basilio at dinner. He referred to that damnable Jedi as General Kenobi."
The manipulative voice hissed.
"Don't remind me."
"How do you plan on gauging our enemy?"
The black smoke consumed the husk. Slowly, the husk rose. The metal bent and twisted into a skeletal shape. It stretched taller. The limbs lankier and harder. Any flesh melted away. Replaced by metal, gears, and wires. Only a few organs remained. Held in a sack of gelatinous liquid in the chest cavity. Protected by a hard metal carapace similar to a ribcage.
"We give him an old foe to face." The Hierophant smirked, "One that will drive a wedge further between Kenobi and the Naga-spawn."
Reptilian eyes opened in the metal skull. The creature's posture became stooped. It's skeletal arms detached from two limbs into four. Then sealed back into two.
"This one is aggressive. I like it."
The Deadlord towered over the Hierophant. The Hierophant smiled. He had total control over this one.
"The Shepherds will be leaving tomorrow evening. I want you to take a group of Risen and ambush them. Kill as many as you can."
"That is rather drastic." The reasonable voice said with some alarm.
"But," The Hierophant continued, "You're primary target is the Feroxi General Ben Kenobi. Kill him if you can. If you cannot, I want you to learn as much as you can about him. Every little detail. His powers, his skills, who he holds closest to him. And when that is done, return to me."
The Deadord let out a low growl. A small cough rattled out of its lungs.
"It will be done, my lord." The Deadlord croaked from its lipless mask.
The Hierophant grinned, "Go then, Tigris. Prepare the ambush. And most important of all,"
The Deadlord moved towards the window. One of its clawed feet stepped up onto the windowsill. The stone beneath it cracked from the strength and weight of the foot.
"Have fun."
And chapter! The Hierophant makes his reveal with King Validar. The Shepherds are on edge. And a new deadlord has been raised. One that will definitely give the Shepherds a hard time. Whatever will they do?
Anyways, let me know what you all think of this chapter! As always, I hope you all enjoyed! Have a nice day