Chapter 14: Attack of the Patchamen
With a blast of light, Stella teleported the girls into the courtyard of Alfea. Grey piles of half-frozen sludge cluttered the corners of the yard.
Bloom yawned and said: "Well, that was a nice weekend trip. How about you girls?"
"I think I'll need a vacation after that vacation," Stella groaned while rubbing her eyes. "Low magic tots suck".
"Not as much as stumbling out of bed, only to suddenly be face to face with somebody's aura," Musa added. "I think I managed to hit a note reserved for opera".
"I just want a bed," Aisha moaned as the group made their way towards the main doors. "So tired, sleep now,".
"I agree," Amore said, wearing a striped pyjamas and nightcap while cradling a teddy bear. "I'll go hibernate for the next day or so. That should fix things up".
"So you're not exactly overeager to return to Earth I take it?" Bloom questioned as they entered Alfea.
"Your homeworld is lovely, Bloom," Stella said. "It's just... Draining. Literally totally draining".
"Let's just go to sleep early," Musa mumbled. "Before we fall asleep in the middle of everything".
"Hey, there you are," a familiar voice said and the girls turned to see Techna rushing towards them. "Where have you all been?"
"We visited Bloom's parents and stayed overnight," Tune replied.
"You went to Earth?" Techna asked. "Without me?"
"Didn't you have a date with Timmy?" Bloom asked, idly scratching her hair.
"I could have brought him along," the scarred girl insisted.
"Look, it's not like you missed anything," Musa brought up.
"What about when you had a dance fight with that gang leader?" Livy asked.
"Seriously, the moment I'm not there, you go have a dance off with a gang leader," Techna said annoyed. "First I didn't get to see the wyrms, now this?"
"We really didn't plan for there to be a dance off," Bloom added. "It just sorta happened. Look, if we're going to do anything interesting in the future, we'll bring you along, okay?"
Techna thought about it for a second, before her face lit up and she happily said: "Okay, but I'll hold you to that promise. See you later". Then she skipped down the hall.
"That girl is impossible," Musa muttered, a small smile on her lips.
...
Almost a week later, near the equator of the planet Sparx, in the Shogunate of Tochi, shogun Yoshinoiya was having his dinner. He lived inside a towering palace in the middle of the capital city. Yoshinoiya had almost everything he could wish for. He was rich, powerful and respected. He had a loyal army and could have any woman he wanted. In fact, there was only one thing he felt he lacked. In the grand political scheme of the multiverse, Tochi just wasn't that important. It was neither rich, big or technologically advanced enough to really have a say among the big players. But recently, he had taken steps to fix that.
As he sat by his table in his private chambers, enjoying a delicious mixture of grains and meat, he heard the voice of one of his elite agents say: "We have returned, honourable shogun".
Yoshinoiya rose and turned. Seemingly out of thin air, his ninjas manifested. They were clad in full-body camo-suits that allowed them to blend in with anything, making them almost invisible.
"Yes?" he said. The shogun had once been a great warrior and a great general, though being a non-magi, age was slowly robbing him of the former. His hair was greying and his once muscular body was slowly gaining the consistency of dough.
"The agents you hired were successful," the lead ninja said. "Princess Diaspro has been kidnapped and the ransom demands have been sent. The involved parties have agreed to a military ceasefire until the terms have been discussed".
"Most excellent," the shogun declared triumphantly. "Either they give in to my demands or they will be responsible for the permanent removal of Diaspro. Either way, it will be a great loss for both Eraklyon and Isis".
"Indeed. But can we really trust these... Freelance agents?" the lead ninja asked. "We have no guarantee they will stay loyal".
"Do not worry," Yoshinoiya said dismissively. "I know the type. They believe in the cause and nothing Diaspro says or does will convince them otherwise. Because the funny thing is that despite what I stand to gain, Diaspro is still guilty as charged".
...
Diaspro groaned as consciousness slowly returned to her. She had a mild headache and her bed felt uncomfortably and uncharacteristically hard. She rolled over, trying to figure out what had happened. She remembered that she had been at a meeting of some sort. Lots of angry people, though she couldn't at the moment recall why. She had been given a drink and then... Nothing. Had she been poisoned? Diaspro forced her eyes open, thinking that maybe her servants had brought her to a healer or a doctor. But her surroundings quickly shattered that comfortable illusion.
She was in a cell. An underground one, probably in someone's basement judging by the grey featureless walls. The cell was fairly clean and well maintained with a light bulb above illuminating the room. Its light revealed the bars that separated her from her freedom, upon which a note had been posted, piquing her curiosity.
She slowly rose from the bed, a cheap mattress placed on a wooden cot. She picked the note up and read aloud: "Princess Diaspro, for your crimes against your people you have been imprisoned and will face justice. The cell is warded, so you will not be able to cast any magic. Dinner will be served at seven. Signed the Patchamen". Diaspro stared at the note as if it had personally offended her. "Okay, no, what is this?" she asked, waving the note around while looking for somebody to complain to. "Is this a joke? I've done nothing to deserve this". She shook the bars while yelling: "HEY! CAN ANYONE HEAR ME! LET ME OUT THIS INSTANCE!"
She heard steps coming down a set of nearby stairs and awaited her chance to confront her captors. She was sorely disappointed when a pudgy dog waltzed into the room.
"I don't suppose you're here to free me," she muttered, while the dog happily barked and wagged its tail.
...
The next day at Alfea, Palladium had taken the sunny weather as an opportunity to teach outside. The snow had almost melted, leaving only small pitiful piles in the corners of the courtyard. The assembled students were dressed in thick, warm clothes to protect themselves from the chilly breeze.
"Alright students, today we're going to talk about one of the oldest types of general spells," Palladium started. "Weather spells. These spells allow a degree of control over sun, rain, snow and so on. The more magi who join together, the greater the effect. However, weather spells can also be very dangerous," he added with seriousness in his voice. "If big enough changes are made, usually due to several magi working together, it can have very unpredictable effects on the weather. Remember, weather is an incredibly complex system. Large alterations could cause devastating storms or dangerous droughts. History has plenty of examples of large-scale weather magic gone horribly wrong. Small effects, however, are unlikely to cause such devastation, so you should feel free to train in it. The first thing we'll try is the creation of a rain cloud. I will pass out instructions".
Bloom took the note she was handed and read through it. It included scientific explanations for how rain clouds were made, how it should approximately feel when creating and a long list of suggested help. She looked at her classmates. Many had adopted things like calling their spells or waving wands around in order to help them get into the proper mindset. Techna had adopted her iron pipe for the purpose of being a wand while Musa incorporated movements from her martial arts training. Flora seemed to use meditation as a way to help her focus, Aisha had bought a professionally made wand and Bloom herself found that reciting what she wanted to happen as a mantra helped. She closed her eyes and focuses on the spell.
"Make it rain, make it rain," she constantly muttered to herself, reaching out into the air with her magic. She suddenly heard drizzling and a sharp: "Eek!" The redhead opened her eyes and saw that Aisha had dodged out of the way of the rain cloud she had made, which dissipated on its own moments later.
"Good job, Aisha," Palladium praised her. "Your only mistake seems to be that you focused too little on where you wanted the cloud, but other than that, an excellent job".
"Tha-thanks," Aisha said, still a bit stunned from the experience.
The rest of the class returned to their own attempts at making it rain. Bloom and Musa managed to make clouds, though they couldn't make them rain. Techna's ended up snowing instead, which Palladium judged was close enough. Flora managed after a lot of focusing, while Aisha was quite proficient at class' end, easily creating and destroying the clouds.
"You have all made excellent progress," Palladium said as the class finished. "Next time we will focus on the dissipation of weather. Have a good weekend".
"Well, that was fun," Techna said as the five friends left the area. "So now that it's weekend, what are you all going to do?"
"Me and Flora are going to visit Sky's parents," Bloom said with notable dread in her voice.
"Oh. Why?" Musa asked.
"They caught wind that her and Sky were dating again," Flora replied. "So since Bloom is a princess now, they want to meet her, in order to judge her personally".
"Frickin politics," Bloom mumbled. "We're not even in a relationship".
"So, going to be doing anything exciting?" Techna questioned suspiciously.
"I'm going to be interrogated by two old grumpy folks who know much more about royal life than I do and will be judging me based on a rule set I'm not even entirely familiar with," Bloom replied. "I fail to see how it could possibly be exciting".
"Hmm, point taken," Techna admitted.
"So why are you going with her?" Aisha asked Flora. "Have you also been invited?"
"No, but as a noble, I was allowed to join Bloom as her advisor, which we foresaw would be necessary," Flora replied. "Glim, Piff and Amore have also requested to come along, which has graciously been allowed".
"Wait, rewind for a moment. You're a noble?" Techna asked. "Since when?"
"Since I was five, maybe six years old," Flora said with a thoughtful look. "That was when my magic was discovered and my family was elevated to being nobles".
"You can just become nobles on Limphea just like that?" Aisha asked confused. "How does that work?"
"Limphea has a way below average number of magi," Flora explained. "And all magi are expected to use their powers to aid our society and protect people from the numerous dangers. The increased political clout and economical advantages are considered fair compensation for the increased danger that I will face".
"Huh. Well, that's cool," Techna said.
"So that's why you're so involved with the politics of your homeworld," Aisha stated.
"I would be interested even without my status, though my position certainly does make getting things done significantly easier," Flora replied. "Ah, it would seem our ride is arriving".
A car flew down the road, parking just outside the gates. One of the doors opened and Sky stepped out, soon followed by Brandon.
"Did you put our belongings in the main hall like I advised?" Flora asked Bloom. When the redhead nodded in confirmation, the brunette continued with: "Then I shall go get them. I will be right back".
"So, looking forward to the visit?" Sky asked as he walked over to them.
"Honestly, I'm kinda nervous," Bloom admitted.
"Me too," the blond prince sighed. "Also, Brandon mentioned that I should probably warn you. My parents will most likely try to see if they can't get me to hook up with both you and Diaspro. They will most likely try to prod you to see how flexible you are on the issue".
"How about not at all," the redhead muttered annoyed.
"It'll probably get through to them at some point," Sky said with a shrug.
"Hold the phone. Are you still getting married to Diaspro?" Musa asked.
"Dunno. My parents have gone kinda silent on the subject," Sky admitted. "Every time I've brought it up, they said they were in the middle of some renegotiations. They have been in the middle of those for a while. I think Bloom and I accidentally managed to hurl a pretty big wrench into their machinations".
"How?" Bloom asked a bit confused.
"Because they feel there's a pretty big chance that you and Sky will hook up," Brandon added. "But they would prefer if you did it as a concubine".
"I see. Because a wife would be considered an equal, but a concubine is considered a step below spouse," Flora said as she returned with the baggage, Piff, Glim and Amore flying behind her. "They want Sky to have some control over Bloom so that Eraklyon will gain power over Domino through the relationship".
"Pretty much, I'm afraid," Brandon said with a shrug. "Not much to do about it except standing your ground".
"Yeah, Avalon mentioned that in our last royal studies session," Bloom added. "He called it a war of definition. I will have to refer to myself exclusively in terms that imply equality between us".
"It's all really, really stupid," Sky groaned. "I wish they didn't have to turn everything into a political power play".
"Despite that, we should probably get going," Flora advised. "How will we be travelling?"
"My parents have sent a vessel capable of making jumps," Sky replied. "It will be awaiting in the airport near Magicalis".
"Well, then could you girls say goodbye to Stella for me?" Bloom asked.
"Sure thing. Have fun," Techna said, as Bloom, Flora, Sky, Brandon and the pixies entered the car, which drove off soon after.
...
About an hour later, Aisha sat in the common room of her cluster, going through the instructions that Palladium had allowed them to keep. She was well aware that she shouldn't practise changing the weather inside, but she hoped she could prepare for the next class mentally. It was in the middle of this self-imposed homework that she suddenly noticed Musa leaving her room, holding an armful of instruments. "Ehm, what are you doing?" Aisha asked.
"Well, the exhibition at Red Fountain is going to be held in a couple of weeks. They've scheduled it before the midterms this year, so me and the other musically inclined students are going to prepare".
"Oh. So what part are you going to play?" Aisha asked.
"Well, I was fortunate enough to be given a solo piece," Musa replied, putting the instruments down in a sofa so she could focus on talking. "I've settled on my instrument, but some of the others from Alfea have asked to borrow some of my other instruments. We're going to do a couple of rehearsals, give some opinions and hopefully make some good music".
"Oh. Sounds interesting," Aisha said. She fidgeted with her papers for a moment, before asking: "Hey, could I come along?"
"Sure, why not," Musa replied. After a moment, she added: "Do you even play an instrument?"
"Only some classical piano pieces from Tides. Though I do realise now that I have a very limited understanding of music," Aisha admitted. "I guess I want to come along because... It sounds like it could be fun and I want to learn what I've missed out on when it comes to music".
"Hmm, that's actually a good idea," Musa said approvingly. "I don't think anyone will mind. Wouldn't be the first time somebody hauled a friend along for training".
"Thank you," Aisha said happily.
...
The vessel that had been called in for them superficially reminded Bloom of the Red Fountain owls, though it was much bigger. And on the inside, it was much more luxurious. The owls of Red Fountain were military equipment and as such were designed to be utilitarian. The royal Eraklyon transport, however, had a snack bar, big beds and a television, amongst other things. It made travelling so much more fun, though Bloom was told to expect the journey to be rather short.
Short, yes, but also pretty impressive. The vessel had jetted of into the skies above, escaping the atmosphere and reaching space. Bloom had more or less freaked out from how amazing that was, being able to watch the planet of Magix from far above. The trip even avoided many of the problems she heard astronauts from Earth faced thanks to the magically generated gravity. Moments later, the vessel accelerated and breached the barriers between worlds, arriving far above the planet of Sparx.
"That's Domino up there," Sky said and pointed at a large, cloud covered area. "Hasn't seen clear skies in almost two decades".
"I really hope I can fix it at some point," Bloom said sadly, as she watched her cursed kingdom.
The vessel then descended into the airspace of Eraklyon. The Dominian princess watched in awe as they flew above the white landscape, cars and houses seeming like toys below. "Does the curse of Domino affect Eraklyon in any way?" she asked, glancing over her shoulder.
"I think it had some effect, though I can't remember what it was exactly," Sky admitted. "Why?"
"Well, it's just that every time I've seen Sparx, be it in photos or on TV, it's always covered in snow," Bloom replied.
"That is normal for Sparx," Flora pointed out. "The planet is further away from the star its circling compared to a planet like Magix. Its poles are permanent glaciers and only the equatorial areas get truly warm during the summer. The rest of the planet usually experiences snow three out of four seasons".
"Our years are also longer as a result," Brandon interjected. "So yeah, planet's a bit cold. You get used to it".
"I hope so. I own part of it," Bloom added with a shrug.
Not long after, they closed in on the Herakles family castle, a massive building that in many ways resembled palaces and castles Bloom had seen from European countries like France. The vessel touched down on a landing pad and the group walked out. Judging from the light of the sun, it was noon.
Moments later, a silk-clad messenger followed by a couple of servants ran up to them with a: "Prince Sky. Your parents have requested your appearance immediately. Bring your followers along as their presence has also been requested. We will handle the baggage".
"Not even a moment to breathe," Sky muttered as they walked out. "Pixies. Stay here until we're done".
"Great. Just arrived and we're already being told to stay put and be good pixies," Amore commented while wearing a dog costume.
"Cheer up. The weather forecast promises snow, so that means we can build an igloo," Piff added enthusiastically.
"Spectacular," Glim stated dryly.
"Come on, it could be worse," Brandon offered his prince as the group crossed the snow-covered courtyard.
Sky eyed him. "How?" he challenged.
"Well, they could have demanded that we leave immediately," Brandon said with a shrug.
"Why would they do that?" Sky asked confused.
"Dunno. Just coming up with a hypothetically worse scenario," the squire continued.
"Bloom, I will advise you to take some deep breaths," Flora said as she noted the redhead's expression, which had tightened into a stiff grin.
"Who, me? Why? I'm fine. I have nothing to worry about," Bloom rambled. "I just have to confront some of the most powerful political players in the multiverse because they want to judge me because of the boy I hang with. No pressure".
"Maybe a tranquillizer would work better than a deep breath," Flora mused.
They walked through the palace, escorted by heavily armed soldiers. The interior design was clearly made to show off the family's riches, with rich tapestries, silk covered sofas and tables with handmade carvings, many of which just seemed to be there to add something to the halls. There were chandeliers, great pictures and tapestries adding colour to the many walls.
Finally, they arrived in the throne room, a massive chamber with great pillars holding up the roof. It was all quite extravagant.
Inside the massive room, sitting on their respective thrones, were the king and queen, whom Bloom recognised from when she saw them at Red Fountain.
"You have requested our presence, Father. What is the issue?" Sky asked as he respectfully kneeled before his parents, the three others following suit.
"I'm afraid a situation has developed," the king started. "Princess Diaspro has been kidnapped".
"Wait... What?" Sky asked.
"She was kidnapped from the newly built palace that had been set up for her by her parents. Investigations have shown that some of the staff had turned traitor and poisoned her, allowing the kidnapping to take place," Sky's father continued. "The man behind it is shogun Yoshinoiya. He has sent us a ransom note, demanding that Eraklyon and Isis surrender large swaths of land and set up unfair trade agreements in return for her safety and freedom".
"And I assume that you have not said yes to that," Sky stated.
"Correct. But before he would even begin negotiations, we signed an agreement of military non-action," Erendor continued. "Thus, by law, I cannot do anything but deal with him".
"Agreements of military non-action are important during tense negotations between nations," Flora whispered to Bloom. "If he breaks it, it will take decades for him to regain the trust of his fellow rulers".
"But then what can we do?" Sky asked. "You're not telling me you're going to give in to that slime ball".
"No, I would never do that," his father rumbled. "But I will not sacrifice the value of my word. Nor do I want to sacrifice Diaspro. As you might see, Yoshinoiya has placed me and the kingdom of Isis in an unfortunate situation, where every choice results in us loosing something of great value. The loss of land and trade would greatly damage our economy, the loss of Diaspro could severely damage our relations with Isis and we would lose a great amount of political power were my word to become distrusted. It would seem no matter what I do, I'll lose".
"You majesty, if I may?" Brandon added. After a gesture from the king, Brandon continued: "I think I see the solution and I suspect that is why you called us here. We're not agents of the kingdom, so if we were to do something about this, you cannot be held responsible, thus not violating the agreement of military non-action".
"I can neither confirm nor deny that idea," Erendor said neutrally. "We are already engaged in negotiations and Yoshinoiya has made it clear that he will not be delayed for long. I expect that I will be forced to make a decision within the next day or so".
"That means yes and that we should hurry," Flora added to Bloom.
"Excellent. Don't worry Father, I will protect the kingdom and save Diaspro," Sky said, where after he eagerly stormed out of the throne room.
"No, no wait, you dunderhead. We need a plan," Brandon called as he chased after his prince.
"Hey, don't leave me behind," Bloom called and ran after them.
Flora watched the three storm out of the throne room. She turned to the king and remarked: "I imagine that with a son like Sky, this happens often".
"The boy has a good heart. He just lacks a head that can keep up with it, though I am happy to see Brandon step up to help him with that," Erendor remarked. "Now go. I am sure your friends will require your assistance".
"As you wish," Flora said and bowed, before leaving the chamber.
"Well?" Queen Samara asked. "Do you think this will work?"
"Which 'this' are you referring to?" Erendor asked.
"Both," the queen replied. "Our son has many great qualities, but without backup I'm unsure even he will be able to track down Diaspro, with or without his three companions. And even were he to be successful, I doubt it will kindle anything between him and Diaspro".
"If Diaspro becomes his wife and Bloom his concubine, Sky's power and influence will eclipse ours," the king continued. "It will strengthen our house for generations. Therefore, while I would not bet on it, I do hope that it is what will happen. Diaspro's family has been putting more and more pressure on me to finish the renegotiations, especially after what Diaspro did with the newly acquired province".
"They are that eager to get rid of her?" Samara asked.
"Yes. And if Sky won't have her... Well, I don't think anyone will," Erendor continued.
"Poor girl. Couldn't we take her in anyway?" Samara suggested.
"It would send the wrong signal. We risk everyone trying to get us to take in the kids that are too embarrassing to have around," Erendor replied. "And if Sky decides he does not want any part of this marriage, there's nothing I can do. I could force him, but in one year's time, he will be ready for his second crowning and then he will have the authority to just annul the marriage. It would make getting him married rather pointless and potentially damage his trust in me".
"Then let us hope this goes well," Samara sighed.
...
"Sky, can we talk for a moment before you storm off to save the princess?" Brandon asked as he entered the armoury, were Sky was eagerly looking for equipment.
"Alright, but make it quick. We need to leave soon," Sky said. "My parents-No, my entire nation is depending on this".
"Yes, and I do realise you have been looking forward to doing something like this," Brandon said. "But do you even have a plan?"
Sky stopped for a moment. "Well..." he started. "I know I'm heading for Tochi and I guess I'll just improvise afterwards".
"Brilliant," Brandon sarcastically commented. "Absolutely brilliant. Okay, are you even sure Diaspro is being held in Tochi?"
Sky mulled it over for a moment.
"And if she isn't, then what? You're going to break into the palace and make Yoshinoiya tell you?" Brandon continued. "Not to mention that the guy is not going to wait forever. Your parents can only drag things out for so long".
"Alright, I get it, I get it," Sky groaned. "Let me guess. You have an idea, right?"
"I do. I noticed a couple of things," Brandon continued. "Now, why do you think your parents waited until we had landed before telling you about this? Why not call you?"
"That's... Actually a very good point," Sky said, rubbing his chin. "Maybe they feared that somebody else was listening in".
"Indeed. Yoshinoiya is well aware of the loopholes in the military non-action agreement," Brandon continued. "So he will no doubt have people to keep an eye out for people like us".
"People who will no doubt ambush us were we to initiate a search," Sky continued, a grin forming on his face.
"Which would result in a great amount of ass-kicking," Brandon finished. "And then we can just ask them. If they don't know, then we start improvising".
"You know what? I like that plan," Sky said approvingly. "Hey, where's Bloom? I though she ran after us".
"I told her I would talk with you. She's out in the garden with Flora," Brandon explained. "Let's suit up and then we can pick them and the pixies up on the way out".
...
"You look tired," Flora stated as she and Bloom walked through the gardens. A fine layer of snow covered everything, painted orange by the sinking sun.
"I'm just nervous I guess," Bloom admitted. "I felt like... Like they were constantly keeping an eye on me. Judging me".
"You would think they would have more important concerns than your status as a potential girlfriend for their son," the brunette added.
"I could be imagining it," the redhead admitted. "Maybe I'm just nervous because of what Sky told me. How they really want me to be his concubine and make him some babies and stuff".
"Also an option. And if they are concerned about yours and Sky's potential relationship, then they at least realise that this is not the right time for discussing it," Flora continued.
"And all this talk of politics is... It's making my head spin," Bloom continued. "I mean, is this what I'll have to deal with all the time? Kidnappings, complicated deals, arranged marriages". She sighed. "Maybe Mom was right in suggesting I should abdicate".
"Being a royal is only what you make of it," Flora offered. "There will be both good and bad sides to it. As there is with everything in life".
"I guess you're right," Bloom sighed. "And I can do a lot of good with it. It's just... Overwhelming".
"Understandable. My advice is that you try focusing on something else," the brunette continued. "Then you can always go back and rethink your worries when you feel less stressed. Who knows, it might be easier to handle by then".
"Right, something else," Bloom said to herself. She scrunched her face for a bit, before admitting: "And now I can't think of anything but my worries".
"Look over there," Flora said and pointed. "It would appear that they have a greenhouse".
"Huh, you're right," Bloom said as she noted the glass building. "What kind of plants do they keep around here?"
"I imagine that since this is the royal gardens, it will be something aesthetically pleasing," Flora suggested and the two walked closer.
Inside, protected from the cold, were several vibrant purple flowers. Occasionally, one would disappear with a purple blink, only for an identical one to appear somewhere else in the greenhouse.
"Warp flowers," Flora started explaining. "A plant with highly developed teleportation magic. Very difficult to pluck. I imagine the greenhouse has been warded to ensure that they do not escape".
"Plants that can escape," Bloom chuckled. "You know, no matter how much I see, the multiverse still keeps surprising me".
Flora didn't respond. They stood there in silence, watching with amusement as the plants warped around in the greenhouse.
"There you are," came Brandon's voice and the two girls turned to greet the squire and the prince. "We've come up with a plan".
"And we've arranged transportation," Sky added.
"Where are we going?" Bloom asked as they began heading for the garage.
"Out of the city. Maybe all the way to the border," Brandon said. "We don't know yet. Depends".
"On what?" Flora asked.
"On when we get ambushed," the squire frankly replied.
"Ah, I see. We are to be bait," the Limphean brunette noted.
...
The car floated out of the city and down the road. The last rays of the sun had disappeared behind the horizon, leaving only streetlights and stars to illuminate the path. The car was red as blood, painted to stand out against the often snowy landscape of Eraklyon.
Brandon was driving, eyes fixed on the road ahead, while Flora sat on the seat beside him and kept an eye on the map. In the backseats, Bloom was sleeping and Sky was staring out the window at the forested hills that dominated the landscape. Between them, the three pixies slept.
"How sure are you of this plan of yours?" Flora asked as she studied the map. "Because we will soon hit the borders of Eraklyon and we still have not seen anything resembling spies".
"Plans like these are never guaranteed," Brandon replied. "Relies too much on the enemy. But I am familiar with Yoshinoiya. And he's the careful sort. He's well aware that outside agents could move against him without it technically being a breach of the rules".
"Hopefully, something will happen soon," Sky added. "As you said, my parents can't drag things out forever".
"Hypothetically speaking, what will your parents do if we cannot find Diaspro?" Flora asked.
"Honestly, I'm not sure," Sky admitted. "Damaging our diplomatic ties in any way could set the kingdom back for decades, but so could giving in to Yoshinoiya's demands. We might technically lose very little were my dad to sacrifice Diaspro, but that would really not look good to the multiverse".
"Pick your poison, as they say," the squire added.
"We will reach the border in about half an hour," Flora noted. "Should we cross or will we turn east to...?" Her question was cut off as a sharp blade pierced through the car's roof with a loud thunk, almost hitting Brandon's shoulder.
"Actually, I think we found them," Brandon remarked, before slamming the brakes with his foot. The car stopped almost instantaneously and someone was hurled off the roof.
Sky jumped out the door and drew his sword and shield. Outside, everything was silent. "Where are they?" he quietly asked as he looked around.
"Is everything okay?" Bloom groggily asked as she got out of her seat.
"Well, besides the attempted murder, yes," Brandon quipped. "Stay close to the car. Pixies, stay inside".
"What? Again? Do we really look like muphhlff," Amore mumbled as her complaints were cut off by an annoyed Glim dragging her back into the car.
"Should we go look for the attacker?" Bloom asked.
"Nah, these guys work in groups and are trained in fighting in the dark," Brandon remarked. "Leaving the car is..." A loud bang could be heard and Brandon was flung off his feet and into the some nearby bushes.
"SNIPER!" Sky yelled as the three of them took cover. "Bloom, Flora, fling something at them. I'll get Brandon".
"Understood," Bloom remarked and charged a fireball. She flung it in the general direction of the shot and the fire exploded among the frozen trees. In the light of the flames, they could see vague shades moving through the shadows.
"Keep them occupied," Flora ordered as Bloom kept pelting the wilderness around them with fire. "I will try to track them". The brunette touched the ground and let her magic seep into the surrounding plants.
Meanwhile, Sky ran to the bush where his groaning squire lay. "You okay, man?" the blond prince asked and reached out for his friend.
"No. But at least he went for the torso," Brandon groaned. His eyes suddenly widened and he grabbed Sky's hand and pulled him to the ground. Less than a second later, a blade swished through the air where the prince's head had been. Brandon jumped from the ground like a spring and tackled the almost invisible attacker. The brutal manoeuvre short-circuited the camo-suit, revealing the ninja. Brandon drew his sword and swung it in the same motion, clashing against the ninja's blocking blade. The sheer weight of the two-handed weapon and the force of the swing caused his opponent's knees to buckle, and Brandon mercilessly lashed out with his foot. His opponent stumbled as he lost his footing and the brunette squire followed up by ramming the pommel of his weapon into the attacker's face. With a pained grunt, the ninja fell to the ground.
"Bloom, to the right," Flora ordered and the redhead followed by launching several balls of flames in the general direction. With a howl, one ninja was flung into the air and tumbled down the hill.
"I think that was the sniper," Flora remarked.
Bloom didn't get the chance to reply, as several small serrated stars were shot out of a bush behind her. She yelped as they dug into her shoulder, drawing blood. She screamed when they let an electrical charge loose. She almost collapsed before she was caught by Flora, who dragged her behind the car as several more projectiles were launched, digging into the side of the vehicle. That's when she suddenly felt something charging through the bushes that were now behind them. Flora turned and saw the blurry shade of another camouflaged ninja leaping towards her. With a movement of her hand, a massive root burst through the road. The assailant twisted and swung his blade through the plant, continuing the motion into a follow-up attack against Flora. But the split-second the attacker had spent on the plant was enough to allow the brunette to get out of the way, leaving the blade to scratch at the car's paintwork with a painful sound.
Sky leapt over the car and swung his blade against the ninja that had attacked Flora. Their blades clanged as they smashed against each other. Sky followed up by smashing his shield into the attacker's now exposed stomach, driving him back.
Flora moved around the car, which shook as Brandon leapt over it to assist his prince. She reconnected with the surrounding plants, trying to get a feel for where the star throwing assailant was hiding. She felt movement through the bushes and concentrated her magic, willing the thorns on the bushes to grow. The howl of her target confirmed its effect. She straightened up and charged towards the sound, as the ninja nosily tried to get free from the suddenly very long thorns. She tackled the attacker, the thorns tearing cloth and flesh as she forced the assailant to the ground. She wrapped her legs around his torso, locking his arms in the process, and followed up with a couple of brutal punches to the face.
Sky continued to duel with his opponent, but when the ninja saw Brandon coming to assist, he turned and ran for the safety of the shadowy hills. Sky shifted his grip on his weapon and hurled his sword like a javelin. It pierced the ninja's back and he fell to the ground with a pained scream. The blond prince waited for a moment, trying to listen for the telltale sound of additional attackers.
"I think that was it," Brandon said. "Though I could be wrong". He turned and noticed Flora dragging an attacker out of the bushes. "Flora, could you find the sniper? Sky, give Bloom some first aid and then start tying people up. I'll have a chat with this guy".
"Understood," the Limphean brunette replied, dropping her groaning opponent off at the car.
As Sky began helping Bloom with the metal stars that were still lodged in her shoulder, Brandon strode up to the ninja with the sword through his back. "So, feeling like answering some questions?"
"Please, help," the ninja whimpered. "I'm... I'm bleeding out".
"I'd say that as long as you let that sword stay there, you'll have a couple of minutes at least," Brandon offered. "Much more if we feel like fixing you, but I'm not in the mood right now".
"Please," the attacker begged.
"Where is Diaspro?" Brandon sharply asked.
"I... I don't know," the ninja replied. "Really... I don't".
"And I'm supposed to believe that?" the squire asked sceptically. "Yoshinoiya puts a lot of faith in you guys. I seriously doubt you're completely uninformed. But hey, if you really do know nothing..." the squire added with a shrug. "Then I guess we don't have any first aid either. Sorry".
Behind him, Sky was bandaging Bloom's shoulder.
"Alright... He didn't... Have us do it..." the ninja wheezed as more of his blood dripped from his wound. "He hired another group... A mercenary team... They had reasons for wanting Diaspro gone... So they worked for free... I don't know where they are though..."
"Interesting. Afraid of an information leak," Brandon mumbled to himself. Then he barked: "What else do you know?"
"Nothing... I swear..." the ninja said, straining to speak.
"Oh well. Have a nice life then," Brandon said and turned around. "All three minutes of it".
"Wait... We were told... To deliver something if... If the king was being uncooperative," the ninja added, gasping as his strength slowly faded. "Something... Something taken... From Diaspro". He fumbled with his pocket and pulled something carefully wrapped in paper. "Take it... Just... Please..."
"Many thanks for the assistance," Brandon said and took it. "Sky, get this guy some first aid, stat".
"Coming," the blond prince said.
...
Half an hour later, the Eraklian military had been by to pick up the ninjas, leaving the group to take a short break by the car.
"You know, you can be pretty scary when you want to," Bloom remarked to Brandon, as the squire studied the contents of the package. It was an elaborate jewel encrusted earring.
"Red Fountain has trained us in interrogation techniques," the brunette replied. "Not that I enjoy stringing people along like that, but it's a sad necessity at times".
"But what can we use it for?" Amore asked. "Make it look like we've already rescued Diaspro?"
"It'll take more than an earring to fool Yoshinoiya," Sky commented.
"There is something we could try," Flora began. "We have started training in ritual magic. One of the first rituals we have learned and had some success with is the 'Locate Owner' ritual".
"Sounds great," Brandon said. "Though I am sensing a but in there".
"Neither Bloom nor I have mastered the ritual, and items become less potent the longer they have been separated from a person," Flora explained. "Even the best possible results will be vague".
"Vague is better than nothing," the Eraklian prince insisted. "I say we give it a shot".
"How about you, Bloom?" Flora asked as she placed the earring at the side of the road. "Do you feel up for it?"
"Sure. I'm just a bit sore, that's all," Bloom said, rubbing her bandaged shoulder.
"Hey, I could compose a cheer to help you," Piff suggested eagerly.
"The thought is appreciated, though I sincerely doubt it will assist our attempts at concentrating," Flora offered diplomatically as she and Bloom sat down on either side of the vanished princess' accessory.
"Aww, I never get to cheer," Piff pouted.
"Maybe you could try cheering up," Amore suggested.
Piff glared at her as the redhead pixie stared off into the distance, her expression the very incarnation of innocence.
"I have the instructions if you need to refresh your memory," Flora offered.
"No, I remember," Bloom replied.
The two sat in silence, focusing their magic into the object and letting it flow from it, like an echo spreading from a struck bell. Minutes ticked by as they sat at the side of the road, a chill wind in the air. The only movement was Bloom silently mouthing her chant.
"Think it's going to snow soon?" Sky quietly asked.
"Sure feels like it, but kinda hard to judge right now," Brandon remarked, eyeing the dark skies above.
More minutes ticked by. The pixies had gone back to sleep, resting inside the car, while Sky and Brandon patrolled the area around the vehicle, vary of potential attackers.
Finally, Flora opened her eyes and said in a drained voice: "We got something. Give me a map".
Sky handed her one and she pointed while saying: "Somewhere around the eastern border, in the forest area. I cannot be more specific, but she is definitely in this area".
"It's a start. And more than we had before," Brandon remarked as he helped a tired Bloom up. "How about the two of you get some rest? We'll wake you when we're in the area".
"Sounds like a good idea," Flora yawned as she and her redheaded companion moved into the backseats of the car. Minutes later, they were sound asleep as Brandon drove through the night.
To Bloom, she felt like she had barely fallen asleep when Sky gently shook her shoulder while saying: "Alright, we're in the area".
"Already?" Bloom mumbled groggily.
"Are we finally going to go kick ninja butt?" Amore asked as she slowly awoke.
"Yes, we are," Brandon said. "You are on car watching duty, however".
Amore stared at him for a few seconds, before sighing and saying: "I'm too tired to argue. Roll over Piff, I'm going back to sleep".
The four of them left the car and wandered into the dark forest that stretched before them, the path illuminated by their flashlights. The snow creaked under their feet as shadows danced in the pale light.
"Keep an eye out for anything suspicious," Brandon quietly said as they walked through the dark woods. "I'd rather investigate one false alarm too many than overlook something important".
"I sense nothing so far," Flora remarked. "But then again, the area is very sparse with plants besides the trees".
"Any idea what we should be looking for?" Bloom asked.
"Could be anything really," Sky admitted. "These guys are very subtle".
Suddenly, bright light exploded before them, momentarily blinding the group. Per reflex, Sky and Brandon drew their weapons while Bloom's hands ignited and Flora magically reached out to nearby plants. In the light of the projectors stood a team of five people, dressed in formfitting blue uniforms with red capes and helmets, which had seemingly superfluous sets of antennas on them. One of them, a man who was standing in the centre of the group, was bearing himself like one with authority, black hair visible underneath his helmet. By his side was a young boy, no more than fifteen years of age. On his other side stood a woman, twin locks of black hair flowing from her helmet. Far to the right stood another man, visibly muscular with smooth brown hair poking out from the helmet. On the far left stood the only member not dressed in a uniform, instead clad in massive armour that obscured all signs of gender, although a cape had been attached.
"What in all of Sparx?" Brandon questioned in surprise.
"LIKE A FLOWER BLOOMING IN TAINTED SOIL, WE SHALL BRING FORTH JUSTICE FROM THAT WHICH HAS BEEN TWISTED AND CORRUPTED!" the man in the middle of the group declared while posing dramatically. "TWISTED VILLAINS. YOUR PLAN TO FREE YOUR DESPOT SHALL NOT SUCCED. FOR I, BEN THE JUSTICE MAN, STAND IN YOUR WAY, ALONG WITH MY FAITHFUL ASSOCIATES! ROLL CALL!"
"Jinpee, the Smartest Kid," the young boy proclaimed, striking a pose.
"Junko, the Princess of Beauty," the girl proclaimed, following her teammates example.
"Bo, the Fist of Truth," the muscular man declared.
"Kiu, the Mighty One," the armoured member declared, the voice obviously synthetic.
"TOGETHER, WE ARE...!" the leader declared as he and his team synchronised their posing. All together, they yelled: "THE SUPER HERO CYBER NINJA HYPER FORCE! THE PATCHAMEN!" Then fireworks randomly exploded behind them, illuminating the forest.
Brandon stared slack-jawed. In fact, he was convinced that his jaw was about to cartoonishly fall off from shock. He looked at the others. Sky had a blank look as if his brain had completely shut down, Bloom was insistently pinching her arm over and over again and even the usually unflappable Flora looked utterly perplexed.
"SURRENDER VILLAINS OR PREPARE TO TASTE THE MIGHTY FORCE OF JUSTICE!" Ben dramatically declared.
"And here I thought things were ridiculous when Darkar got involved," Flora sighed, burying her face in her hands. She glanced at Bloom and remarked. "You are not going to wake up, Bloom".
"I have to. It's the only way this makes sense," Bloom insisted, even as sore red spots started to pockmark her arm.
"Alright, there might have been a slight misunderstanding here," Brandon started. "Are you the ones that kidnapped Diaspro?"
"INDEED. WE BROUGHT DOWN THE TYRANT AND FREED HER PEOPLE! FOR JUSTICE!" Ben proclaimed, making Brandon silently wonder if the guy had a volume control.
"Alright, so Diaspro did something. Could you perhaps elaborate?" Brandon suggested,
"SHE FORCED HER PEOPLE TO SPEND THEIR MONEY FRIVOLOUSLY WHILE THEY WERE TOILING AWAY, BARELY ABLE TO SURVIVE," the Patchamen leader continued. "SUCH VILE MISUSE OF ONE'S SUBJECTS CANNOT GO UNPUNISHED! FORTUNATELY, THE GOOD LORD YOSHINOIYA INFORMED US OF THIS BLIGHT UPON THE WORLDS!"
"Alright, look, I don't know what you think happened, but even if Diaspro has done something wrong, Yoshinoiya is only doing this to serve his own cause," the brunette squire said. "He might actually be using you".
"And your evidence is what exactly?" Jinpee questioned.
"Hmm, good point. I guess I don't really have anything on me," Brandon admitted.
Sky shook his head and said: "We haven't got time for this. Remember, negotiations can only be drawn out for so long. We need to get Diaspro out, now".
"You can try. And fail," the armoured Patchaman said, as the entire team struck combat poses.
"This really isn't some absurd nightmare," Bloom sadly moaned, one side of her arm almost completely red from pinching.
"It would seem that a peaceful solution is not in the cards," Flora noted.
"FOR GREAT JUSTICE!" Ben yelled and the team charged.
Bo ran towards Sky, who raised his shield. "KICK OF TRUTH!" the muscular Patchaman yelled as he sailed through the air, his feet smashing into Sky's shield, forcing the warrior back. "PUNCH OF TRUTH!" he continued, unleashing a barrage of fist attacks as he tried to knock the blond prince out.
"WHY ARE YOU YELLING YOUR ATTACKS!?" Sky loudly questioned as he tried to hit his opponent with his blade. "WHO DOES THAT!?"
Bo jumped back, shining energy charging in his hand. "FORCE BLAST OF JUST REVELATION!" he yelled, before launching several glowing projectiles from his hand.
"WHAT DOES THAT EVEN MEAN!?" Sky yelled as he ran for cover while the ground behind him exploded.
Meanwhile, Bloom unleashed a wave of fire at Kiu, who strode through it even as the flames consumed the armoured Patchaman's cape. The redhead continued to back away as her opponent confidently strode through the flames.
"Do not think your flames can hurt me, she-villain," Kiu proclaimed. "My components are protected by enchanted alloys. You cannot harm me".
"Components? Are you a robot?" the redhead asked as she ducked behind a tree to avoid her mechanical opponent's blows.
"That is correct. Built to serve justice, truth and liberty," the machine proudly proclaimed as he tried to catch up to the redhead, who was constantly running around the tree. "Now stand still so I can administer justice".
"Does that ever work?" Bloom questioned as one of the robot's fist smashed against the side of the tree, nearly hitting her head.
"Honestly, no, but it wouldn't be fair if I didn't give you the option," the robot admitted.
Bloom kept trying to get out of the robotic Patchaman's way, but then suddenly tripped over a rock.
"Got you now," the machine proclaimed as he loomed over her. "Lights out, you fiend".
Bloom let her dragonflame ignite and felt a surge of power. She reached out with her hand and a bright flare lanced forth, blasting off one of Kiu's arms. "I thought you said you could handle the heat," the redhead taunted as the robot stumbled back, holding the red-hot remains of its shoulder.
"Oh no. I have been wounded," the robot cried out.
"Fear not, mighty Kiu. For with the power of friendship, we shall overcome our foe," Junko proclaimed as she jumped forth to assist. "Take this". With a sweeping motion, she flung several objects that clattered around Bloom's feet.
"Lipsticks?" Bloom questioned confused.
"I never go anywhere without lipstick," Junko responded, flicking her hair. "They're also bombs, by the way".
Bloom had barely time to register the female Patchaman's comment, before the lipsticks exploded in pink gas. The redhead coughed as the pink mist enveloped her and made its way into her lungs. Seconds later, she collapsed on the ground, bereft of consciousness.
Flora directed another barrage of thorns at Jinpee, who was taking cover behind a force shield. She touched the ground and tried to direct the roots beneath to bind the kid, but the frozen ground was too hard to break through.
"Ready to give up yet?" the teen taunted. "My technology will beat you plant witchery any day".
"I am a fairy, you cape wearing doofus!" Flora yelled back, the night's events straining her usually endless patience.
"Eh, tomato, tomato," the kid responded uncaring while plinking away at a wrist mounted control panel. "While we've been bantering, my missile drones have flown into position".
Flora glanced around and suddenly noted that there was indeed several small machines silently hovering in the air. Small panels in them opened and unleashed a barrage of micro explosives.
"Touché," Flora admitted, before several explosions knocked her off her feet.
Brandon desperately moved back to give himself some room to attack, while Ben kept trying to close the distance to punch the squire in the face. The benefit of his two-handed blade was extra force and length when he attacked. However, the Patchamen leader seemed to realise this and constantly tried to get up close to Brandon where the squire would have a hard time getting a proper swing. The brunette tried to counter with pommel jabs and kicks, but the Justice Man was a much more experienced martial artist and easily countered his moves. A powerful jab made it through the squire's defences and pounded his rips, sending him stumbling backward.
Having gained some room, even at the cost of a painful bruise, Brandon raised his blade and awaited the inevitable charge. A couple of moments passed.
"Well?" Brandon taunted. "Afraid I'll hurt you?"
"BEN THE JUSTICE MAN FEARS NO PAIN," Ben responded. "BUT I DO ABHOR UNNECESSARY VIOLENCE".
"What do you mean by that?" Brandon asked, raising an eyebrow.
"VISIONARY FOOT FORCE!" a voice suddenly yelled, followed by an explosion and a pained howl. Brandon turned to see Sky fly through the air towards him. Tired and pained, the squire could not even attempt to evade and caught the full brunt of the flying prince, which smashed them both into a nearby tree.
"WELL DONE, TEAM," Ben congratulated as he and Bo dragged the downed Red Fountain soldiers over to where Bloom and Flora had been dropped off. "THIS HAS BEEN ANOTHER VICTORY! FOR JUSTICE!"
"SUPER HERO CYBER NINJA HYPER FORCE! THE PATCHAMEN!" the entire team yelled out in self-congratulation.
On the frozen ground, Flora groaned, her lacerated and slightly broken legs pulsing with pain. She dearly wished she could just fall unconscious and not have to listen to any more of the Patchamens' proclamations.
...
"Oh, my head. Where am I?" Bloom groaned as she slowly awoke.
"In a prison cell," Flora informed her. "Guarded by Yoshinoiya's men".
Bloom glanced around. Surrounding them on all sides were wooden walls with occasional barred windows, which Sky and Brandon were scouting out of. It looked almost like they were imprisoned in a crate.
"Well, this doesn't look to difficult to get out of," Bloom said as she slowly got up.
"No, it isn't," Sky confirmed. "It's the eight ninjas out there that's an issue. They took our weapons and I doubt even you two can lay down enough firepower to take care of them".
"What do we do then?" the redhead asked.
"We wait," Brandon responded. "All we can do at the moment, really. Look for an opportunity and capitalise on it when it presents itself".
"Problem is, that could take a while," Sky said. "I'm not even sure what the time is. But I know we can't have much left".
"We have to keep an eye on the guards, first of all," Brandon added. "There could be more... Moaning?"
"Moaning?" Flora questioned.
"Yes, moaning. Listen," Brandon said. As they all went silent, they could hear pained groans in the distance.
Suddenly, Amore popped up in the window, wearing an all-black ninja costume. "Do you have any idea how hard you were to find?" she asked a bit annoyed. "Maybe we should leave you in the car next time".
"I'm happy to see you too," Brandon deadpanned. "Listen, we need your help to get out".
"Already taken care of it," the redhead pixie continued. "These fellas won't be bothering you".
"What did you do?" Sky asked.
"Turns out, being a ninja doesn't make you immune to food poisoning," Amore continued and made a twirl. Now dressed in a black suit, top hat, cape and twirling a moustache, she diabolically added: "Or the diarrhoea that follows, ahahaha".
"Your gear is over in that pile, by the by," Piff added as she popped into view. "Plus, they've got papers on were exactly Diaspro's kidnappers are hanging out".
"Great. Means we can resume the mission," Sky said.
"Hey, listen," Brandon began. "Can the three of you hurry back to the king and get a copy of the ransom demands? I think they might come in handy".
"Sure thing," Piff said as her and Amore jetted off, soon after joined by Glim.
...
About an hour later, the four of them hid in the thick bushes overlooking a small building, from which the sound of the Patchamens' celebrating could be heard.
"Alright, Flora, how are your legs?" Sky asked.
"They have managed to heal a bit, but I will not be able to walk anywhere without assistance," the brunette answered after a moment of assessment.
"Okay then, here's the plan," Brandon started. "We've brought a barrier buster. Now, according to the info from the ninja camp, Diaspro is kept in a warded cell in the basement. We'll blow the roof to dust and get her out, silently if possible. If we can't, then you'll have to protect her while we try to fight off the Patchamen".
"Should be possible. I still have my magic," Flora confirmed.
"And if it does come to a battle, how should we fight? Even when Flora could join us, we got our asses handed to us," Sky brought up.
"True, the Patchamen are good at what they do," Brandon said. "Bloom should break the robot guy as soon as possible, no holding back. Both the kid and the girl seem reliant on gadgets, so if we take that away from them, they're out of the equation. That leaves Captain Shouty and Fist Guy, or whatever their names were, but we can handle them in a three on two scenario. Or maybe we'll be lucky and the pixies will get here. That could also work".
"Alright, let's get going," Sky said.
He, Brandon and Bloom carefully snuck closer to the house. From it, they could hear Ben bellow: "TODAY, MY LOYAL TEAMMATES, WE HAVE STRUCK ANOTHER BLOW FOR JUSTICE! AND LIBERATION! BUT ESPECIALLY JUSTICE!"
"He really loves that word," Sky commented.
"At least he provides plenty of noise for us," Bloom added.
"According to the papers, the cell should be roughly around here," Brandon noted and pulled a barrier buster out of his backpack. "Get back. This might cause some shifts in the earth".
Seconds later, there was a puff and pulverised earth began trickling into the hole.
"WHAT IS THIS NOW!? I JUST GOT THIS FOOD!" an angry voice roared below.
"That's her, alright," Sky said and peaked into the cell below. "Diaspro. It's me, Sky. We're here to get you out".
"Oh, my prince. You have come to save me in my hour of need," Diaspro said delighted.
"You okay?" Bloom asked as she peeked over the hole's rim.
"Oh," Diaspro said, all enthusiasm gone. "You".
"We got a rope. Climb up carefully," Brandon said as he lowered said rope. Then an alarm went off. "Scratch that, get up here now," the squire added.
"WHAT IS GOING ON!" the Patchamen leader yelled as he dramatically burst out of the building's front door. "YOU!" he yelled as he recognised the group. "YOU MAY HAVE ESCAPED YOUR JUST IMPRISONMENT AND EVADED THE LONG ARM OF JUSTICE, BUT YOUR ATTEMPTS AT FREEING THIS DESPOT SHALL FAIL. BECAUSE I..." Then one of Bloom's fireballs collided with his chest and launched him backwards.
"I'm getting really tired of that word," Bloom flatly noted.
"Ben!" Junko exclaimed as she saw her leader fall to the ground.
"Did anyone catch the number on that washing machine?" came his slurred and surprisingly quiet reply.
"Diaspro, Flora is awaiting you in the thicket over there. She will keep you safe," Sky advised as Diaspro managed to crawl out of the hole.
"Please, be safe, my beloved prince," she said, fluttering her eyes before running off.
"What?" Sky asked as he saw Bloom shake her head.
"Just... Royals I guess," she frustratedly groaned.
"You will not get away with this, evildoers," Bo declared. "FORCE BLAST OF JUST REVELATION".
"Seriously, what does that mean?" Sky questioned as he and his friends dodged the blast.
...
Diaspro crashed through the thicket, the sound of battle echoing in the background. Seconds later, she stumbled into a clearing, where Flora was sitting.
"Hello," she greeted her. "It sounds like the stealth attempt failed".
"Yeah. it did," Diaspro wheezed, before sitting down on an exposed root.
"So, how has it been?" the brunette asked conversationally.
"How has it been? Awful," Diaspro snapped. "My marriage has been delayed for no reason, my own people backstab me after I try to help them, I get kidnapped by a bunch of clowns and of all people, Bloom has to be here". She took a deep breath.
In the distance, they could hear a cry of: "FOR JUSTICE!" followed by: "STOP SAYING THAT!".
"Yes, I heard about the marriage," Flora continued. "If I have understood the situation correctly, Erendor aims at making Bloom Sky's concubine, but she is resistant to the idea".
"Of course she has to be stubborn about it," the blonde princess grumbled. "Has to keep her grubby claws on her power. Doesn't care how it affects others".
"This may surprise you, but Bloom is not stubborn out of a desire to hold on to her power and influence as princess of Domino," Flora calmly explained. "She does it because she feels being reduced to a secondary lover would be undignified. An insult to her relationship and feelings".
"That makes no sense," Diaspro insisted. "If you get the chance to become affiliated with a royal like Sky, you should grab the chance as soon as possible".
"But you never really grabbed it, did you?" Flora questioned. "It was your parents who arranged it".
"They have done their best to ensure that I get the best possible match," the princess continued. "But when Erendor suddenly started delaying and renegotiating, well, it changed everything. They sent me off to a newly acquired region to manage it. They said they wanted to see if I could handle that while they tried to salvage my marriage". She sighed. "What did I do wrong? I did everything I could to be a good match for Sky. Maybe we just needed more time. But then she got into the picture. It's all her fault".
From somewhere far away, they could hear an intense yell of: "REVELATION PUNCH STARRRRRGGGHHH MY ARM!"
"Bloom seems to agitate you," the brunette stated. "Yet her presence did not seem to disturb you back at the incident at Red Fountain".
"She was just a commoner back then," Diaspro said. "She could never be Sky's wife. But now that she's turned out to be the lost princess of Domino... Erendor might decide to let them marry. She might be the better match. And she will never allow me to be a concubine".
"And this angers you, why?" Flora questioned.
"BECAUSE THAT SHOULD BE ME!" Diaspro yelled as she stood up. "I'VE SPENT MY LIFE TRAINING FOR THIS! PREPARING TO BE A GOOD WIFE, HIS WIFE! AND NOW, BECAUSE SHE SUDDENLY WALTZED IN FROM NOWHERE, I'M GETTING PUSHED OUT OF THE PICTURE! IT'S... IT'S...It's..." She collapsed back on the root, face buried in her hands. "It's not fair," she quietly said, sounding like she was about to break out in tears. "I've done everything I could... And now I can only watch it as it falls to pieces. Just like when my parents let me rule the new region".
In the distance, they could hear yells of: "NOT THE FACE! NOT THE FACE!"
"What happened?" Flora asked.
"There were complaints. Something about the workers suffering from heatstroke and stuff," Diaspro said, rubbing small tears out of her eyes with her sleeves. "I made buying the newest gear mandatory, for everyone's safety. People freaked".
"And is this gear expensive?" Flora asked.
"Of course not. Seven, maybe eight thousand nummi for a complete set," Diaspro said with a shrug.
"Right. I think I see the issue," Flora continued. "How much did those people earn? On average that is".
Diaspro blinked a couple of times.
"You do not know," the brunette stated.
"Well, usually there's a bureaucrat that takes care of that back home," Diaspro said. "He just never showed up in the new region. They also complained that we were starting to lack food, so I ordered them to sow blood berries. And they still complained".
"And had you made sure the area was suited for the farming of blood berries?" the brunette asked.
Diaspro blinked again, before saying: "That's not my job. We have a farmer guy to take care of that".
"And was he out in the region you were governing?" Flora continued.
"Well... No. I figured the peasants would elect one when they needed him," the blonde noble replied.
An explosion rang out not far away, resulting in somebody screaming about being on fire.
"Diaspro, do you have any training in actually governing a kingdom?" Flora finally asked.
"I have the necessary skills to assist my future husband in his endeavours, so yes," Diaspro said. "I can do math, write letters, raise kids, play the piano and dance. Among other things".
"Right. So you can assist a ruler, but you have no training in ruling on your own," Flora noted. "I am starting to see what has happened here".
...
Bloom gasped in pain as she leaned up against a tree. A brutal kick from Ben had hurt her leg and made her unable to stand on it. It was possibly broken or even dislocated.
The area had more or less been completely cleared of snow by the vicious fighting. Over the horizon, the first golden rays of the sun could be seen.
Sky and Brandon were still standing, though only barely. Bruised and sore, they stood side by side, ready to take on their opponents.
The Patchamen were in no better condition. A dragonflame empowered blast of fire had cut off Kiu's legs and Jinpee had had to retreat after Sky successfully broke his gadget. Bo was almost out of the fight, especially due to his now broken arm. Ben and Junko had taken some hits, but were still ready to battle.
"SURRENDER NOW VILE VILLAINS AND WE SHALL BE MERCYFUL!" Ben declared, striking a pose a bit slower than usual due to how beat up he was getting.
"Yeah, no, not happening," Sky groaned while shaking his head. "How about you surrender instead?"
"THE PATCHAMEN WILL NEVER BOW DOWN TO THOSE THAT SERVE INJUSTICE!" came the reply.
Sky shrugged and said: "Can't say I'm surprised, really".
"Alright, round two it is then," Brandon said, raising his blade.
"STOP! WAIT!" came a yell and the combatants turned to see three pixies storm into the clearing. "We... Got... What... You... Asked... For," Amore wheezed, holding up a disk.
"Eh, what's that?" Junko asked.
"Last time I brought this up I didn't have any evidence," Brandon said, as Amore flew over to the Patchamen with the disk. "So, I asked my friends here to get this. It proves that Yoshinoiya is using you for his own political gain. He sent this message to the Eraklian king".
"Jinpee, could you check this?" Junko asked as she took the disk.
"Sure. Unless they're also going to break my computer," the kid grumbled as he came out from hiding. He grabbed the disk and ran inside the house, pausing only to say hi to the dog.
There was a bit of an awkward moment as both parties waited for him to return.
"Alright, I'm curious," Brandon began. "How long has your group been operating?"
"THE PATCHAMEN WERE FORMED FIVE YEARS AGO TO COMBAT THE INJUSTICE THAT STILL TODAY REIGNS THROUGHOUT THE MULTIVERSE!" Ben declared.
"Though it did take four of them for us to really get started," Bo admitted. "What with having to find members and get the equipment necessary".
"And after becoming the bestest of friends, it took us a while to find a worthy cause," Junko added.
"In fact, this is our first really big job," came Kiu's addition.
"BUT WE DID IT BECAUSE WE WANTED TO SPREAD JUSTICE AND GOOD MORAL VALUES," Ben loudly added. "AND IT'S THE THOUGHT THAT COUNTS!"
"Ehm, Ben, I got some bad news," Jinpee said as he shuffled out of the house. "Story checks out. Yoshinoiya really is using this thing for political gain. And yes, I have checked for digital alterations. Nothing".
"OH... WELL... That's... Oh," Ben said, visibly deflating a bit. He coughed and added. "BUT EVEN SO, LADY DIASPRO'S TYRANNY CANNOT GO UNPUNISHED! IT WOULD BE MOST UNJUST!"
"Actually, there is nothing tyrannous about her," Flora said as she walked out of the thicket with the support of said noble. "She has genuinely tried to help people. She just does not know how to properly govern".
"OH... Oh..." the Patchamen leader said, deflating even more.
"In fact, did you ever talk with her at all?" Flora questioned.
There was silence as the Patchamen shuffled their feet.
"Well, we were kinda busy trying to make sure nobody would come free her," Jinpee said. "You know, waiting out in the woods with our pyrotechnics equipment and such. We left Zark, our dog, to keep an eye on her".
"So... What you're saying is... That this hasn't really been for justice?" Ben asked.
"I am afraid it has been the complete opposite," Flora said sympathetically.
"Oh," came the disappointed reply. The Justice Man looked thoroughly embarrassed by the revelation.
"If it helps, the entire region Diaspro was governing thought she was a tyrant," Flora said. "That is why they assisted you in kidnapping her. But in truth, she is just not very good at ruling".
"Yes, yes, rub it in why don't you," Diaspro grumbled.
...
"You have done well, Sky," King Erendor congratulated his son. The light of day bathed the massive throne room in illumination, as the blond prince stood before his parents. "Yoshinoiya has retracted his demands. He's trying to claim that he only did it because of Diaspro's tyranny, but he's not fooling anyone. This little plan of his is going to cost his nation for years. As for Diaspro, we will arrange her transport home once she's had time to get her well-deserved rest".
"Yes... About her..." Sky began. He sighed and said: "I will be completely honest, Father. I have no intentions of marrying Diaspro".
After a moment of silence, his mother asked: "Is this because of Bloom?"
"Yes and no," Sky answered. "It isn't because we've started dating a bit again. Honestly, we might never really hit it off. But meeting her and her friends has made me realise that I should choose for myself whom I want to share my life with. And that I should do it because those people are special to me, not because I can gain something from it".
"I see," his father sighed. "I cannot say I agree, but it is your decision and I will respect it. I will inform Diaspro's family of your decision".
"Thank you, Father," Sky earnestly replied and left the room.
Outside, the others had gathered in the courtyard with the Patchamen.
"SO YOU SAY THESE PEOPLE WILL BE ABLE TO DIRECT US TO JUST CAUSES!?" Ben loudly asked, his enthusiasm returned.
"Absolutely. The Roccalucian Order works to ensure stability and peace throughout the multiverse," Flora explained.
"THAT IS FANTASTIC!" the Justice Man declared.
"Do you think we can keep our uniforms?" Jinpee asked.
Flora shrugged in reply.
"I don't see why you couldn't," Brandon interjected. "You'll probably just be asked to wear their insignia on it somewhere".
"That is acceptable," Kiu said.
"THEN LET US GO AND DO JUSTICE!" Ben declared.
The whole team posed and yelled: ""SUPER HERO CYBER NINJA HYPER FORCE! THE PATCHAMEN!"
Then they stormed off, running towards the rising sun.
"Is it just me or has my life become increasingly ridiculous lately?" Bloom asked as they watched the hero team storm off.
"How so?" Flora questioned.
"First Darkar, who thinks he's a villain. Then there was all the politics, Now this, a superhero team," the redhead replied.
"It takes all sorts to make up a multiverse," Brandon added amused. "So, how did the meeting go, Sky?"
"They were happy. And I got Father to finally call of the wedding," Sky said.
"I hope Diaspro will not be too hurt by this," Flora said. "The girl was really invested in the idea".
"She deserves to find her own path, just like Sky does," Brandon said. "Hopefully, without being chained to this royal doofus here, she can do just that".
"You do realise I have the authority to order the guards to give you a wedgie, right?" Sky asked.
A melody began playing in Bloom's pocket. "Oh, it's Techna," the redhead said. "We should probably tell her what's happened".
She received the call and immediately had to jerk her head away from the phone as the scarred girl roared: "YOU WENT OFF TO FIGHT NINJAS AND SUPERHEROES!? WITHOUT ME!?"
"I think she already knows," Flora deadpanned.