Authors notes: I never thought this day would come! I remember re writing the original chapter several times, but it was nothing compared to the work I have put into this. I can say this much, never have I been more frustrated as when I worked on this. I'm sorry it took so long, but I hope it was worth the wait. I've worked my butt off the last week to be able to give you a little Christmas gift, so Merry Christmas dear readers!
The day of reckoning for Dagran had finally arrived. Today was the day he had to face the demon of his past and his own actions leading up to this day.
Even though they had prepared for the trial, nothing was certain and anything could happen...
Chapter 14: The Trial.
Most of the old mercenary group were scattered in the rebuilt hall of the new prison, located in the old castle depths. Lowell and Syrenne sat in the only chairs propped up against the stone walls. Mirania and Yurick stood by the bars, both were looking anxiously at the man inside. All of them knew what could happen after today's trial, and not one of them were emotionally ready for that possibility.
Dagran looked calm on the surface, but it was far from the truth. His thoughts were in a state of chaos, he was torn between dreading the outcome of the trial and looking forward to it. His thoughts also lingered on Tifa, no one had heard anything from her since he was teleported away. Before the outcome of the trial would rest on Zael and Calista, but now the Emperor was also involved. Since he had woken up in a prison cell and had yet to speak with anyone except Therius, he feared his chances of getting out of this were pretty slim.
Yurick met his old leader's eyes, and even if he could not find any accusation in his gaze, he was still struck with guilt, ''I'm sorry, I never meant for them to find you. I should have checked with the others before taking them to Tifa...I panicked in the presence of the Emperor...'' he told him remorsefully.
''We've been over this already, it's all right...'' Dagran shook his head, assuring him for the umpteenth time that night. ''This is no one's fault, better me in here than Tifa.''
''That may be so, but Tifa's trial would be far easier than yours...'' Mirania softly pointed out. ''You'll most likely be charged for the General's murder.''
''Yes, but I'm prepared for that.'' He told them truthfully with a calm he didn't know he possessed. His gaze landed on Syrenne and Lowell. ''Promise me one thing, please take care of Tifa if-''
''Of course, mate.'' Lowell was quick to answer, effectively cutting him off. A grin gracing his weary face. ''But, you're not allowed to give up, I'm sure Tifa has something up her lovely sleeves.''
''She will not be alone, we promise.'' Syrenne said and smiled reassuringly.
''Thanks guys.'' Dagran answered gratefully. His mind was at ease, and he felt relieved that Tifa would be looked after, in case his trial ended badly. He looked at every one of them, giving them a heartfelt and genuine smile. ''Now I'm ready for whatever might come.''
''Damn it all to hell!'' Tifa cursed angrily, kicking the dirt beneath her feet. All her pent-up frustrations pouring out of her. ''What the hell am I going to do now!?''
''Cheer up! You've been in worse situations than this.'' A sweet voice cut in.
''Who?'' Tifa immediately spun around, her eyes widening when landing on three familiar faces. ''It's really you...oh, I've missed you!'' she whispered with tears streaming down her cheeks.
Aeris stood between Cloud and Zack a few feet away from her. The flower girl winked at her, while the two men gave her matching smiles. Her heart skipped a beat at the sight. She wasted no time and bolted towards them, and right into Cloud's awaiting arms. She buried her head in his chest, savouring the familiarity of his embrace. Sobs racked throughout her body, which grew worse when feeling Zack patting her head.
''We missed you too.'' Cloud spoke as calmly as ever. Tightening his hold of her. ''It was hard losing you...''
''As hard as losing all of you was for me I can imagine...'' Tifa answered softly, blinking away a few tears before looking at Aeris. ''But as glad as I am to see you all, I could really use your help.''
''With what sweetie?'' Aeris immediately asked, her green eyes sparked with curiosity.
''We did not just dump you here, you know. We have been watching over you since you got here.'' Zack spoke up for the first time, his sky blue eyes radiated kindness. ''We know what you've been through.''
Tifa nodded gratefully and turned once more towards the flower girl, a hopeful look forming on her face, ''Can you bring Asthar here? I need to speak with him.''
Pity washed over Aeris' beautiful features as she shook her head. ''I can't do that, even if I wanted to, but have you asked yourself if Dagran really deserves your help?'' she questioned softly.
''I agree, I don't know what you see in that guy. What makes him deserve your trust?'' Cloud stated jealously, which was a bit out of character for him. He stood with his hands on his hips, giving her a disapproving look.
''Hey! You guys don't even know him so stop sticking your noses where they don't belong.'' Zack scolded his friends by shoving them away from the silent fist fighter. ''I'm sure Tifa is capable of knowing what she's doing and whom to trust.''
''Ha! You only say that because he's your son!'' Aeris shot back and slapped his arm playfully. ''You knew him as a child, but he's come a long way since then, don't you care about her safety too?''
Tifa's eyes widened at that. ''Wait, your son? How-''
''Of course I do! And Tifa I'll explain that some other time. '' Zack snapped back while winking at Tifa. ''But it's clear as the sky is blue, that Dagran means a lot to her.''
Tifa blushed bright red from Zack's last statement which only made his grin grow bigger. She averted her eyes from the bickering pair and found herself looking into Cloud's concerned face. She gulped as she realised she had to answer that statement. I hate talking about my feelings...
''Tifa?'' Cloud asked her gently. ''Does he really mean a lot to you?''
''Yes...'' Tifa answered truthfully as she looked into his eyes. ''But, what should I do?''
''Ok then...'' Cloud nodded his head and walked closer to her, and took her hands in his. ''Try your original plan, use the new materia fusion. If Thornton's confession is not enough, or they don't believe what happened with Asthar you can always break the law. If he's found guilty, you can bust him out and fight for what you believe in.''
''It's something you've done before. Just follow your heart, it will never lead you astray.'' Aeris told her with a warm smile.
''So that's your excellent advice is it? To encourage her and my boy to wage a war against those in charge...'' Zack said and gave his friends a sceptical look. ''That should be your last resort Tifa, now I have a much better idea!''
The Great Hall had been turned into a temporary court room because of the visiting ruler. Calista and Zael thought it would be better not to have the old Emperor going down into the castle depths for the trial. They hoped the change and easier access would appease him, but sadly it had done nothing to improve his mood.
A huge oak table had been placed in front of the stairs, which accommodated not only the Emperor and the rules of Lazulis, but also Therius and Yurick, as well as some noblemen. Before the grand table were two sturdy chairs, equipped with restraints. On the left side stood a row of chairs, with Knights standing guard behind them. Guardsmen were also posted on top of the stairs and by all exits to prevent unwanted people from entering.
Only people connected to the two accused where allowed to be present, but only those who had left relevant information the court could us to sway the outcome of the trial. Testimonies and character references had been submitted before the trial. The questioning would be held by Zael and the outcome would be decided by Emperor Rian. The rest of the mercenaries with the exception of Yurick were mere observers, only allowed to be present because their close ties to Dagran.
Emperor Rian sat at the centre of the table, and was flanked by the leaders of Lazulis island. Zael sat stiffly to his right. His nerves where a bit frail after what happened the previous day. Not only had Dagran's return come as a shock, but he and Calista were in trouble with the Emperor who had not looked favourable upon their marriage. He saw their secret wedding as a betrayal of his trust, and he was not pleased that they had wed without his consent, which was custom for the high born nobles. He had also denied Zael's request of seeing Dagran, he cared not for their shared past, nor much for the circumstances surrounding the late General's death.
''Bring in the accused!'' Rian ordered sharply, his voice echoing through hall.
Dagran walked calmly between his two guards, men he knew from before. Both he and Thornton had been bound in chains, according to custom. His eyes quickly took in his surroundings and he found no flaws in the defence set up by his childhood friend. He cast a quick glance towards his friends, immediately noticing Tifa's absence, but pushed that aside to respectfully meet his Emperor's cold gaze before bowing.
The man was older than he thought, his face bore deep wrinkles, and his short white hair was a stark contrast to his bronze skin. Sky blue eyes looked scornfully his way. His clothes was a testimony of elegance and wealth, the deep purple robes he wore was sure to be of the finest material. Trimmed with golden embroidery. ''Greetings, your Majesty...'' He murmured and let his gaze fall to the stone floor.
''Blessed be for your presence here today your Majesty!'' Edward dramatically exclaimed, falling to his knees. ''My spirits have been lifted and now I can cast my worries aside, surely you of all people will see the folly in all of this.''
''Do not presume to know my mind, Thornton. Just because I happen to know you from before does nothing for the outcome today.'' Rian harshly replied, his gaze hardening in warning. To ensure that the accused would remain silent before he glanced at Dagran. Giving him a small nod of acknowledgement which meant he could stand straight again. ''Today's evidence will rule the outcome of both your trials. Though I wish I could do otherwise, I will uphold the laws upon our society lives by.''
''Then shall we begin, your Majesty?'' Zael softly interjected, which he was rewarded with a firm nod in answer. ''General Therius, would you be so kind to read us the charges?''
''Certainly, my lord.'' Therius promptly replied and began reading the charges. Leaving no details left unsaid, completely pushing away his personal feelings towards the two men. His tone was neutral, although his face was set in a disapproving frown. ''So in short: Sir Edward Thornton stands accused for attempted rape and murder and master Dagran De'Winter is accused of murder and for collaborating with the Gurak during the war...''
''I dare say, no one can accuse either of you of living ordinary lives. My General has painted quite a grim picture for me.'' Emperor Rian scoffed after hearing the charges. ''Both of you are accused of heinous crimes, but I propose we deal with Thornton's trial first, since his victim is still among the living.''
Calista sighed deeply as she looked at Dagran. Their eyes met briefly and it was no surprise for her when his eyes hardened slightly. They had never liked each other very much, and she knew she had not hidden her own disdain when looking at him, ''Sire, I have learned new information about these cases which complicates matters. May I ask master Yurick to share his findings?''
Yurick waited respectfully until he saw Emperor Rian nod his approval. It had been a small gamble of Tifa to ask him to approach Calista before the trial. One he hoped would pay off. Since it was partially his fault that the situation had turned so dire; he could not refuse her request. He could only hope she had more tricks up her sleeve, ''Your majesty, there is a reason why these two men stand before you today. Their lives and crimes are intertwined because of an event which happened many years ago in village called Sleepy Grove.''
''Are you still going on about your revenge?'' Zael asked with a disappointed look on his face.
''He murdered my family! I will never rest until they are avenged!'' Dagran answered fiercely, meeting Zael's gaze head on.
''This is preposterous! I have only seen this man once in my life, and that was during the Gurak wars.'' Edward loudly protested. His gaze moving from face to face, as if trying to convince everyone he looked at.
''Why should we trust a word you say? You killed General Asthar.'' Therius coldly asked Dagran. ''A murderer's word is not worth much.''
''Silence!'' Rian barked angrily. His voice booming across the hall. Satisfied about being obeyed he gestured for Dagran to step forward. ''While everyone else remain silent, please explain yourself.''
Dagran did as he was told and took a few steps toward the edge of the platform. He passed his tense nemesis and stood straight before his Emperor. This was a moment he had been waiting for, and he felt a bit nervous. He took a deep breath before speaking, ''It was 13 years ago, when the Inquisitor was a mere knight, and served under General Asthar. He and a group of knights went rogue and started a rebellion. They started attacking villages, and one of them was my home village of Sleepy Grove. They murdered everyone, including my family and burned down the whole village. Because of the conflict with the Gurak they barely got any punishment for their crimes. Every knight was needed or so it was claimed...''
Rian nodded, not quite surprised of the tale. There had been many of its kind during that period, and he could certainly understand how revenge could drive a man all those years. Commoners seldom got justice for the wrongs' their betters subject them to and during a war they were always the ones to lose the most. It is the sad fact of every society, but to take the law into their own hands could not be tolerated. ''I understand that you might have a desire to bring Thornton to justice, but why are you accused of killing the late General Asthar?'' he asked.
''Because of an unfortunate misunderstanding...'' Dagran trailed off to think for a moment before continuing. He told the court about how Asthar had taken on the blame personally, for his men going rogue and started a rebellion. Even after finding and stopping his former subordinates Asthar still said the blame was his. He knew that the general had not been among the men destroying his village, but all he heard was that he had been responsible for it. Over the years, no new evidence had come up to contradict that statement. ''I am to blame for General Asthar being dead, but I did not murder him. During one of the Gurak attacks, I challenged him to a duel which he accepted and lost. I did not learn the truth about it until a few days ago, when I found his journal...'' he finished remorsefully.
Rian once again nodded, indicating that Dagran should remain silent. He accepted the papers Yurick handed him and looked them over. It was merely a list of names written in Thornton's own hand of the people who once lived in Sleepy Grove. That all names except for Dagran's name and that of another had been crossed over was indeed suspicious, but not enough to convict a man. The matter with the assault held better promise of that, but that was a separate issue. ''We already know Thornton were amongst the group of knights who went against Asthar's orders, but the reason not all were convicted back then was because a series of testimonies stating some of the men merely standing guard whilst other knights raided and murdered people. According to Asthar's own report Thornton was one of those knights who turned a blind eye to his comrades atrocities. What other proof do you have which can tie Thornton to the murder of your family?'' He finally asked.
By a stroke of luck, they had not been forced to use the necklace they planted in Thornton's office. Dagran noticed the pocket watch which dangled from the robes of his nemesis. It was his father's watch. He had thought it lost in the fire, but the bastard must have stolen it after killing him. ''The pocket watch Thornton wears belonged to my father. It is one of a kind, made by my father who was a blacksmith –''
''And that will prove what?'' Edward interrupted Dagran in a taunting tone. ''I bought the locket on one of my many travels.''
Dagran turned and made one quick swipe after the watch, then showed it to the guardsmen. Pointing behind the clock pointers were his father's initials had been inscribed. ''Why would you wear a watch with another man's name? And better yet, go around with a photo of a family that is not your own...'' Dagran coldly questioned and closed the watch, only to open a section on the lid which held his family's portrait. It was with great reluctance he handed over the only remaining photo of his family to the guardsman.
''That is larceny, which he can be charged for, but it is not proof of him murdering your family...'' Rian stated with a dismissive hand. ''Unless you have something else, I suggest we move forward.''
''Majesty, if I may?'' Yurick asked in a humble voice. Sounding far more calmer than he felt. He waited until he once again got a nod of approval from Rian. ''With your permission, I can use a spell on both men, which will solve this in a matter of minutes. Whilst under my spell, neither man can tell a lie, nor refuse to answer a question asked.''
''Sire, surely you can't consider this!? Never before has such a spell worked, how can we be sure the one casting it won't make us answer whatever they like.'' Edward angrily protested. ''I refuse to under go this spell!''
''Afraid Thornton?'' Dagran sneered, hate filled eyes pinned on the man beside him. ''I won't object, I have nothing to hide.''
''You two, be silent! Your sire has already stated you are to speak only when spoken to.'' A guardsmen roughly shoved the two accused back in their seats. Bowing towards Rian when returning to his original position next to Dagran's chair.
''Thank you, kind guard.'' Rian gave a tiny smile of approval. ''I have no objections to using this spell. In fact this has begun to bore me, the sooner this is finished the better, proceed mage!''
Yurick swallowed once before beginning. It was the second time he ever used Tifa's kind of magic and he did not feel confident wielding it. He understood how, but it was still new to him. He concentrated and cast the spell on Dagran first. As it hit him, his eyes became dull, almost lifeless. ''It is done.'' He announced.
Zael nodded in a silent thanks. He knew his face betrayed his every thought. He may act calm, but he was far from it. In truth he was feeling very conflicted and finding it hard knowing how to act. He took a deep breath and gathered the papers before him into a neat pile, to earn him a few more seconds to gather his thoughts. ''Why did you kill General Asthar?'' He asked.
''I challenged him to a duel because of information stated that he was responsible for the attack on my village.'' Dagran automatically answered in a monotone voice, void of any emotion.
''Do you regret your actions?'' Zael asked, partly dreading the answer. Before he were forced to kill him beneath the castle, there had been pride and satisfaction in his friend's eyes as he told them the truth.
''I regret it now after learning the truth, but at the time of the duel I did not.''
Zael breathed a sigh of relief when hearing that answer. It did not exonerate him, but it did feel good to know he had not relished in killing his former mentor. A duel is not the same as outright murder. Now there is only the matter with the Gurak left, ''To what extent did you collaborate with the Gurak during the wars? How did it begin and what did you do?''
''I never really collaborated with Zangurak or the Gurak. I crossed paths with him when we lay siege to his base. I fought him, but he bested me. I offered to work for him to be his eyes and ears on Lazulis Island if he let me live. He agreed and told me he'd be in touch and then he put me to sleep. I never gave him any vital information, nor did I receive anything of use from him which could have helped our efforts in the war. I have already given you the corresponding letters as proof. I never betrayed our side, nor did I intend to do so.''
''That will be all.'' Zael concluded and with a wave of his hand indicated to Yurick to reverse the spell. His gaze locked with Dagran's as his eyes returned to normal and he gave his former best friend a small nod. Then he shifted slightly in his seat and looked to his emperor who gave him a nod. He knew what it meant, but it did not sit well with him. Edward as an Inquisitor, was granted certain privileges and one of them was being questioned without an audience.
''We ask that all attending leave the Hall for the time being...'' Calista gently commanded, her eyes landing on her friends. She observed that each of them wore a guarded expression, and each of them gave their former leader a lingering look before quietly following the small procession up the stairs.
''I can't believe we got kicked out like that! Yurick and sir hoity-toity got to stay...'' Syrenne quietly muttered to her two friends.
The three of them hid, crouching on the floor on the small balcony overlooking the Great hall. Neither one of them wanted to miss out to hear the truth about Dagran's past. He had always been a very private person, so no one knew anything, but the most basic information he choose to share. What they knew was horrible enough for a person to live though, but many has such pasts. To resort to such extreme measures that their friend had done made them believe there were more to his story. More than he have shared with them at least.
''Now, now, don't work yourself up love, it's not good for the baby.'' Lowell whispered in a soothing manner while placing a gentle hand on Syrenne's stomach.
''Grrrr'' Syrenne growled and slapped his hand away. ''The baby is bloody fine! I don't like where this is going, it feels all wrong...''
''Ow! Must you be so aggressive...'' Lowell complained and rubbed his stinging hand.
''Give it a rest you two.'' Mirania sternly scolded which made both tense up. Her blue eyes fleetingly looking around the large room. ''You are right though, something does feel amiss. Not just with the trial itself, but the air feels odd...''
''See and you're supposed to be a mage...'' Syrenne muttered to her lover. ''This is not looking good for him, is it? Do think we did the right thing? Making sure Tifa was not called?
Lowell choose to ignore the first comment. She knew full well that he was a warrior first and a mage second. His magical senses would never match Mirania's, but it was pure luck on Syrenne's part to be right about the wrong feeling whereas magic was concerned. She and Dagran had zero aptitude for magic. ''With the Emperor here anything can happen, but I agree on it looking very dark. We promised to keep her safe, and this is us keeping her safe. The less exposure she gets the better. All we can hope for is mercy at this point, even with Tifa's magic.'' he answered her.
After a bit of fussing, the guards finally managed to strap Edward to his chair. Yurick wasted no time in casting his spell on him, which resulted in the same calm and blank expression taking form on the Inquisitor's face. Calista directed her attention to the man she had know for years. She felt confused, he had always been so nice to her, it was hard to believe he was capable of such evil acts for which he was accused of.
''Sir Edward, in your own words please explain your role and what happened that night when Sleepy Grove was destroyed.'' Zael calmly asked the Inquisitor.
''I was not the instigator of the raid against Sleepy Grove, but I participated in its destruction. When the blacksmith refused to aid our rebellion, our leader challenged him. The blacksmith killed him and several others before succumbing to his wounds. I then decided to kill all witnesses and blame the destruction on bandits, but we must have missed some since General Asthar found out and hunted us down. Some fellow men and I made a pact to protect each other. We split away from the remaining group, and fixed some fake testimonies. Then we sought out Asthar and convinced him that the other remaining knights we left behind and the ones killed by the blacksmith were to blame. Since that day I have kept close track on the survivors
of that village and those involved to make sure they would never speak the truth.'' Edward answered.
''Did you or anyone in your group convince Asthar to take the blame for what happened?'' Zael asked as a follow up question.
''No we did not. Since all of us had been under his command when it happened, he felt responsible. Our pact was merely to protect our necks, but having Asthar take on the blame enabled us to keep our knighthood and only pay high fines for our part in what happened.''
''What about Dagran's remaining family? Were you the one who murdered them?'' Zael asked, his voice grown colder.
''Yes.''
Dagran tensed after hearing that, holding his breath. His hand trembling from trying to contain his anger. The mark of the Outsider stinging. He have longed for the truth to finally spill from that bastard's lips and now that it had, his desire to kill him only increased. Suddenly he felt a gloved hand close over his fist.
''Stay calm.'' Tifa whispered from behind the guardsman's helmet beside him.
She's been here the whole time! Dagran thought with a rush of happiness. She really kept her promise, to have his back. It has been her who have been guarding him the whole day. His anger melted away and was replaced by gratitude and another feeling. The feeling he have never felt towards anyone before. When feeling her hand slip away, he caught one of her fingers and gave it a light squeeze to express his gratitude. Never taking his eyes from Edward's still form.
''After having enjoyed myself with the woman I slit her throat. It was then I noticed a boy hiding under the bed, so I dragged him out from under the bed. I was just about to kill him when I was stopped by a little girl. She threw herself in front of the boy, taking the blow meant for him. It was then my comrades shouted for a retreat, since I was out of time I merely bolted the door: hoping the fire we started would finish the job for me.''
''And what about Miss Balfour? What were your intentions towards her?'' Zael asked in a tired voice. He was almost afraid to hear the answer, it was clear that the man before him was rotten to the core.
''I wanted to fuck her, to make her my personal servant. With looks like that she was meant for such work. Sadly, she resisted and called for help, so I decided to kill her and make it look like self defence.''
''That's enough, break the spell.'' Therius commanded angrily while giving the man a frosty glare. His confession conjured very disturbing images not easily forgotten. ''He's guilty as sin...''
Dagran closed his eyes as the spell was undone. He could no longer stand looking at the man, nor did he trust himself around him either. All he wanted to do was to unleash his power and kill him on the spot. Having to relive old painful memories left him feeling raw and vulnerable, and hearing him speak of Tifa in such a way made him sick to his stomach. He heard Edward gasp in panic as it dawned on him that they had indeed gotten his confession. It was done, and the truth had finally gotten out. He could finally let his family rest in piece now that their deaths would finally get avenged.
''Shall we call for Miss Balfour, your majesty?'' Calista asked a little uncertain, not quite able to gather her thoughts. It was a personal blow for her, that a man she'd once respected and cared for to be such a evil monster. It made her question her own feelings towards Dagran. She had always been so sure about her discomfort towards him, but after this she felt very conflicted.
''I have already read her testimony, and talked to healer Mirania who has confirmed her injuries. I see no need for her to be questioned after his confession.'' Emperor Rian replied with a pensive expression on his face.
''Sire, please have mercy! I know my own flaws, but think about the good work I have accomplished in life. Surely that must be worth something...'' Edward begged, trying to get out of the chair he was bound to. ''Punish me or sent me to prison, but please don't kill me!''
''Mercy? What mercy did you show my family and village? At least be man enough to face the consequences of your own actions.'' Dagran sneered coldly, refusing to even look at the pathetic excuse of a man. His eyes rested solely on the Emperor, who's gaze was hard to read. He bowed his head in respect before answering, ''I'm ready for your judgement sire...''
Rian nodded in gratitude of Dagran's respect for his authority before standing up. He relished in feeling respected and feared and he loved to be obeyed. The uncomfortable silence around him was a sheer testimony of his power, ''During my lifetime there have been several conflicts and wars, the latest one claiming far too many lives. It is because of that I cannot sentence Inquisitor Edward Thornton to the death he rightfully deserves right now. There is a shortage of magistrates across my Empire and I need every one knowledgable in law and order right now. Therefore, I sentence him to be stripped of his ranks and imprisoned until he has educated enough men to replace those lost. When that is done, he is to be executed for the crimes he has committed against the crown and his victims...''
''So it will be done. Guards, take him away!'' Therius stood up and eagerly ordered two guardsmen to remove the vile Inquisitor. Then he turned to gestured towards Dagran who's posture had slumped down slightly after hearing his nemesis verdict. They all ignored the panicked cries from Edward as he was being dragged away. ''What about him? He did confess to General Asthar's murder...''
''Dagran De'Winter you are cleared of the charges of murder. This spell revealed the truth about Thornton and your confession is no different. Nor did you work with the Gurak, the documents you have provided confirms this. You are however charged with treason against me and my crown. You were the instigator to the Gurak conflict, alongside Count Arganan and reports written by non other than your childhood friend states that you tried to use the power of the Outsider for your own purposes, which is not the orders I gave to Count Arganan, the man you worked for...'' Rian spoke with a spark of satisfaction in his eyes. He was like any other noble, fascinated by violence and thought it entertaining. Personally he liked the lad in front of him, but he recognised trouble when he saw it. He knew he bore the mark of the Outsider, but this man was smart, not easily manipulated as Zael. Better to get rid of him before he became troublesome. ''Your head will make a fine addition to my collection of traitors.''
Dagran watched in slow motion as two knights came walking towards him. Zael and Calista refused to meet his gaze, but soon his view was cut off by Tifa's back. A small light emitted from her and suddenly the knights stopped. She stood proudly and defiantly before the Emperor. ''Tifa...''
''I see the typical Shinra traits are still going strong. You'll do anything in your power to have your way. You couldn't make the other charges stick, so now you add your own, ones you'll not even allow him to defend himself against!? You know as well as I that what he intended to do with the Outsider was not to threaten your rule. He wanted to turn back time and change the fate of his family, and give him and his friends a chance to change their pasts if they could. One bad choice does not erase all the good things he has done...'' Tifa spat angrily as she removed her helmet and threw it to the floor. Soon the rest of the ensemble followed and she was left standing in her old fighting gear. The white tank-top and black skirt. She smirked as Rian's eyes widened in recognition. ''You know who I am, and what I am capable of, I'm here to cash in one of the favours this world owe me, and I start by claiming this man's life to do with as I please.''
''Seize her! Keep her away from me!'' Rian barked angrily, only to watch in horror as she commanded all knights and guards to take a seat in the empty chairs. Therius and Zael drew their weapons and stepped in front of their sovereign. Pure panic crept up his spine as he understood that the ancient records of the old heroes powers were not exaggerated. ''How can you even be alive!?''
''My job was not finished so I was sent here. Seems I was needed since your family still hurts Gaia.'' Tifa merely answered and unleashed a silence spell on Calista. Making the levitating woman fall to the floor in an ungraceful heap. ''If you want to do this the hard way then I'm more than happy to comply!''
''Calista are you all right!?'' Zael barely had time to shout before Tifa charged him. She was upon him so fast he had no time to block her first kick which made his sword fly out of his hand. Then she followed up with a flurry of punches which sent him crashing backwards to the floor, knocking the wind out of him. ''Damn she's fast...'' he managed to wheeze out.
''Tifa stop this now or you'll be sharing his fate!'' Yurick tried to reason with the fist fighter after the initial shock wore off. He noticed his friend's on the balcony was enveloped in a barrier, one of Tifa's magic. All he could do was to guard the Emperor until one side yielded unless he could convince her.
''Never! I can't believe you lot! You are ready to have one of your own executed, knowing full well all that he has done for you. He is far from perfect, but at least he fights for what he believes in unlike you who cower before a rotten old man!'' Tifa spat out as she received a blow from Therius.
''You can't hope to win against the Empire...'' Therius pleaded as he saw her wipe blood from the corner of her mouth. She was a formidable fighter and her fighting technique was unique and very violent. He swiped at her with his sword, only to have her gracefully dance away each time. He ached in various places from her brutal kicks. Seeing as she refused to back down he charged her with brutal determination.
''Don't underestimate me...'' Tifa warned and leaped up on a pillar, only to use the momentum to flip behind the knight. She barely landed before delivering a brutal roundhouse kick to the small of his back. Making him fly into the pillar with a sickening sound. His sword fell to the ground, and she kicked it away to join Zael's just behind her. She raised her fist slowly awakening her summoning orbs, knowing Rian would recognize their glow. ''If you don't honour the treaty written by your ancestor, then I will make the last war seem like child's play. You who sit on the old records know the power of the summon spirits and what destruction they can do. Do you really want to gamble on which summons I possess?''
''Just who are you and why are speaking like you are above our laws!?'' Calista angrily interrupted, having recovered from her fall. ''You have no right to threaten us this way...''
''I am Tifa Lockhart, one of 9 guardians of this planet. I helped save this planet 3 times from being destroyed. Emperor Rian Shinra is a direct descendant from a family of Shinra's who were responsible for the near destruction of this planet a long time ago. Rufus Shinra saw the error of his ways, and after a long war against the common people of Gaia, he repented and became a benevolent ruler. He with the help of the people designed a treaty which was given to us guardians, it enables us to ask for 3 favours for our service to the planet.'' Tifa paused her explanation to undo the straps tying Dagran to the chair.
Dagran remained silent, observing the situation. He trusted Tifa to know what she was doing, even if it to him seemed to be madness. He noticed all of his former companions regarded her with anger, he expected it from Zael and Calista, but the others surprised him a little. He knew the threat of a war was the reason behind it, but he knew Tifa. She would not do that lightly, it was a gamble on her part.
''What nonsense is this, highness?'' Calista asked and turned towards her Emperor. ''I've studied history and there is no mention of anything like what she describes.''
''That is because of the founder of house Arganan. He together with my ancestor wanted to wipe the slate clean after the mistake of summoning the Outsider. They were afraid people would find out how he came to the idea of creating the rite of summoning. He had taken inspiration from the past, which if people ever found out could have plunged the world into a new war...'' Rian finally spoke, in a tired and defeated voice.
''So? What will it be Shinra? Do you wish to fight me or will you honour the old treaties?'' Tifa asked.
''You have outmatched me, Lockhart. I will give you what you ask...'' Rian conceded coldly, his hands poised in a gesture of surrender.
''Help us!'' A panicked voice interrupted.
The doors to the great hall burst open. One knight sprinted inside and yelling for help. He was all bloody and he had several cuts on his face. His armour dented and buckled and his sword were no where to be seen.
''Reptids are attacking the city!'' He announced as he fell down from exhaustion. ''There are hundreds of them. The townspeople are in danger and many knights have already fallen.''
''Get ready to fight.'' Dagran commanded and picked up the sword Tifa had discarded from her armour. ''I'll go on ahead and check things out.
''We will discuss the details later, Shinra.'' Tifa said with a tiny bow of her head before calling back her magic. Freeing everyone from her spells. Then she simply spun around and sprinted after Dagran.
The trials may be over, and a fragile peace had been negotiated, but would it last? There were still unanswered questions, but many of them have to push their differences aside to deal with this new threat.
Would they succeed in defending the city and push back the Reptids, or would they overthrow the city?
