p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"strongI know I'm a little late on this one, but I return with a nice, long-ish chapter! Enjoy!/strong/p
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p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"The trek to City Hall was a dreadfully quiet one, at least for Teemo. He had no doubts that Mayor Jadefellow would agree to sign the treaty between the nations of Demacia, Ionia, and Piltover. It was a sound plan, to be sure, especially with the growing presence of Noxian warbands in the northern Sablestones. He was unsure, however, just how the interactions between Kennen and the two Kinkou ninjas would pan out. If he knew Kennen as well as he thought did, he knew him to be a passionate yordle when it came to things that were important to him. Yet walking beside him, he could practically feel the conflict radiating from his friend./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen kept his gaze forward and his conversation short, his mind much too preoccupied with what was to come. He silently thanked Teemo for acknowledging this, occasionally flashing the scout a half smile as they walked./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen's brows furrowed as he thought. Perhaps he was overreacting…/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"No. He wasn't. What Shen and Akali did was wrong. But to sacrifice everything he has worked toward in the Kinkou, to abandon his place within the Triumvirate, would be a slap in the face of the people of Ionia, himself, and his parents. He thought back to his mother and father, and what they would have wanted him to do. They would have wanted him to persevere and continue down the path he was on; the path he was destined to walk./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"He couldn't dishonor that./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"On the other hand, he could not deny the emptiness and loneliness he felt when in Ionia. He couldn't ignore that it was on the verge of consuming him. No yordle should be away from his people for that long./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Even if he was to stay, where would he live?/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"His eyes shifted back to Teemo. The scout had given him refuge when he needed it and even offered his home on a whim, but Kennen did not feel like testing the extent of that generosity./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo caught the glance and quirked a brow. "There's a lot on your mind, I can tell." The scout said with an ever present smile./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I'm having doubts." Kennen muttered. "Shen was right…I may have let my emotions get the better of me."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo shrugged a shoulder. "Maybe. Or maybe he just needs to see things from a yordle's perspective. Family and home…it means everything to a yordle."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen tilted his head. He wasn't wrong...But Shen would argue that Ionia was just as much his home now as Bandle City was then./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"As they neared the city square, Kennen saw what looked to be preparations for some kind of event. A small army of yordles were hard at work decorating the streets with a plethora of bright, colorful flowers and ribbons. From streetlamp to streetlamp, long streamers fixed with bundles of marigolds and dahlias hung. A few yordles carrying baskets randomly tossed pedals into the air, littering the streets with an amalgam of brilliant colors. Along the streets leading into the square, long, extravagantly decorated tables were being set up, along with what appeared to be massive keg barrels, no doubt carrying delicious ale./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo could see the curious look on Kennen's face and spoke up. "Surely you remember the Summer's End Festival?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"It suddenly clicked in Kennen's mind. "Oh! Of course I do! How could I forget…"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen smiled as he began to reminisce about the last Summer's End Festival he had attended, many, many years ago. The Festival, which as the name would suggest, celebrated the end of the summer season and the beginning of the autumn season. It was kind of a big deal in Bandle City and was revered as one of the oldest yordle holidays in existence./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo pointed a finger to what appeared to be a large stage platform being build beside City Hall. "I've heard from the grapevine that musicians from the Yordle Academy in Piltover are coming to perform. They're apparently bringing some type of 'new sound technology' with them, too! It's got everyone pretty excited."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen eyed the stage. Every inch of it seemed to be covered with colorful flowers, prompting him to wonder how anyone would be able to perform without kicking up a storm of pedals./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"The pair stopped just as they passed by the stage, now standing before the Bandle City Headquarters./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""…Here we are." Teemo said, gesturing to the stairway leading up to City Hall. "You ready?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen blinked as he looked up to the large, imposing building. He gave a single nod before following Teemo up the stairs and inside. "Here goes nothing."/p
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p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""…And what of the Freljord? The Avarosan? Queen Ashe cannot ignore these turn of events." Mayor Dennison proclaimed, pushing a pair of spectacles back over his nose./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen shook his head. "They are consumed by their own petty civil wars. The Avarosan seem to think that a Noxian war machine could not possibly survive the cold reaches of the Freljord during the winter season…and perhaps they couldn't, alone. But with this new alliance that Noxus has conjured, I suspect they could lay waste to any nation that stood in its way. Thus is the reason we ask that Bandle City join in an accord with Ionia, Demacia, and Piltover. Alone, we are all powerless against such a vast force, but together, we may extinguish any ideas of warfare before it even began. The Avarosan are also weary of joining in an alliance with Demacia, considering they denied Freljordian refugees during Noxus' 'Barbarian Pacification Campaigns'…"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison gave a slow, steady nod, his eyes fixed upon the document before him./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"His ears suddenly perked as the door to the office opened and two yordles quietly entered. Shen and Akali also turned their heads to look./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Ah, Captain Teemo. I was just beginning to think you weren't going to show up to this meeting." Dennison's eyes shifted to Kennen. "Master Kennen? I trust you've enjoyed your time in the city? Shen and Akali tell me you hail from the Yordle Lands. It is always nice to see a son of Bandle returning home." The stout yordle gave Kennen a proud smile./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen gave a respectful bow to the Mayor of Bandle City upon being acknowledged. "Yes sir. It's been…an interesting experience." He muttered. He briefly glanced to Teemo, who seemed as ridged as a plank with his chin held high and his arms firmly at his side./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Dennison cleared his throat. "Are you not going to join your colleagues?" He said, giving Kennen an odd look./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen pursed his lips and blinked before looking over to Shen and Akali, who were looking at him expectantly. Awkwardly and silently, he walked over to the two, his shoulders slumping some./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo watched him from the corner of his eye, a small frown forming on his lips as he could sense the uncertainty in his friend's movements. His gaze shifted back to Mayor Dennison as he spoke./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""There are many in the Bandle City High Council who would have me deny this treaty outright." The Mayor took the document in hand and swiveled in his chair some, before giving a thoughtful hum./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo silently cursed under his breath. If it wasn't for Mayor Dennison, the Bandle City High Council would have thrown the Yordle Lands into chaos long ago. They wanted nothing more than to shut Bandle City off from the rest of the world, at least that's what Teemo had gathered during his many years serving in the military./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"He could recall a time when Bandle City was on the brink of civil disarray. Many of its citizens agreed with the council's platform to keep the Yordle Lands insular, though many more thought it should be opened up to the tradewinds of Valoran. The latter sentiment was eventually embraced when Mayor Dennison opened trade negotiations with Demacia and Piltover. Bandle City's economy has grown tenfold ever since. There was even a time, prior to the Noxian Invasion of Ionia, when Bandle City accepted Noxian traders./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"It was no surprise to Teemo then, that the High Council was eager to shoot down any talks of joint-alliances being made with other nations./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Captain Teemo, what are your thoughts?" Dennison asked, looking to Teemo with a curious expression./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"The fur on the back of Teemo's neck bristled as he was called upon. Shen and Akali looked to the scout in question./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Sir?" He piped./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You are one of Bandle City's most distinguished scouts. What are your thoughts on this treaty? It is, after all, only fair that I ask a soldier his thoughts on what is potentially a treaty of war." Dennison said./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo flexed his jaw as he thought. "Noxian warbands are one thing…but an entire army? I don't think Bandle City could weather such an assault, even with the bulk of our own armies. I suspect that if there was an invasion, Bandle City would be lost. This treaty is sound." Teemo gave a confident nod before quickly adding a 'Sir' at the end of his statement./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen and Akali, seeming satisfied with the scout's answer, looked back to Mayor Dennison, who nodded accordingly. "Mm. Indeed. Fortunately, there strongwere some/strong in the High Council who strongdid/strong agree to the terms of this treaty…just enough, I might add."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison suddenly plucked a pen from his desk and inscribed his signature upon the treaty before rotating it toward Shen and Akali, and sliding it forth. "Our answer is yes, Shen of the Kinkou. Bandle City will serve in this alliance."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo gave a quiet sigh of relief. Shen and Akali also seemed to relax some. Kennen stood unwaveringly still, obviously preoccupied with his own thoughts./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen stepped forward and collected the document. "Word will be sent to Piltover and Demacia immediately."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison nodded. "I suspect you will be returning to Ionia, then?" He eyed the Triumvirate, collectively./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen nodded. "There is much that remains to be done. Remember, there will be another summit meeting in three months' time. In Demacia, you and the respective leaders of each nation involved will meet to discuss the conditions of this treaty, as well as strategies for when the combined might of Noxus, Bilgewater, and Zaun make their first engagement of war."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"The Mayor gave another nod. "Yes, as we discussed. Then I consider this meeting over-…" He paused for a moment, his eyes suddenly shifting to Kennen. "Ah! I nearly forgot…"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen blinked./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison suddenly nodded to Shen. "I believe you three have some type of…personal business to attend to, before you leave?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen and Akali both gave a single nod and looked down to Kennen./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen stiffened. emWhat were they planning?.../em/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen began. "Akali and I discussed, in length, possible ways to…remedy the situation we have all found ourselves in."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Akali spoke. "We understand that your anger with us is justified, Kennen. For that, we can only hope that you will find it in your heart to forgive us, and still know that we did what we did for the good of the Kinkou…"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen narrowed his eyes, still unsure as to what exactly they were getting at. emAn apology was not going to fix this./em/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen spoke again. "But we are not blind to your troubles, Kennen. We understand that being away from your own kind is…problematic. Speaking with Mayor Dennison has reassured us of this fact." Shen gestured a hand to the Mayor, who seemed to be listening intently. "You know as well as Akali and I that the Triumvirate would fall without you, Kennen. That is a risk we simply cannot take. Thus, I would like to offer an alternative ultimatum." Shen continued./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen quirked a brow. "Go on."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""After speaking with Mayor Dennison, we have arranged for you to stay in Bandle City for approximately one month. After that allotted time, you will be expected to return to Ionia" Shen said, looking back down to Kennen./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen didn't know what to say. This was truly an alternative he couldn't refuse. It still astonished Kennen that Shen could put aside his pride so easily to preserve the interests of the Kinkou…and though he knew it was not necessarily a direct kindness on Shen's part, Kennen was thankful none the less. He also had no doubts that Akali had a significant hand in convincing Shen that this was the right recourse, and for that he was also thankful./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Akali broke the silence that Kennen had let fester. "Are these terms agreeable, Kennen?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen looked up to the two and gave a low bow." Yes! Yes. They are." He said with a stammer./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen nodded. "There is…one condition." He said before nodding to Mayor Dennison, who nodded in return and looked to Kennen./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""While you enjoy your stay in Bandle City, you will be expected to play some part in its defense…should the need ever arise." The Mayor suddenly smiled. "And if the stories of the power Shen and Akali have told me you possess are indeed true, I believe you will serve Bandle City well, for the short amount of time that you are here."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen gave the Mayor a bow. "Mayor Dennison, sir, it would be my utmost honor!"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison nodded. "Then it is decided. You are hereby recognized as a diplomatic guest of Bandle City. You will be given quarter here in City Hall-..."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo interjected before Mayor Dennison could finish. "Actually, Mayor Jadefellow, I'd be happy to open my home to Kennen during his stay in Bandle City." The scout looked to Kennen, giving him a confident smile./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison chuckled. "A model of yordle hospitality! Does this agree with you, Master Kennen?" He said, looking to the ninja./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen nodded quickly, returning Teemo's smile with one of his own. He was still kind of dumbfounded by the sudden turn of events, but ecstatic none the less./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Very well!" Mayor Dennison exclaimed before looking to Shen and Akali. "Well, I will not keep you two waiting any longer. Safe travelling back to Ionia."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen and Akali gave the Mayor a bow before turning back to Kennen. "We would like you to see us off." Shen said./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen nodded and joined the two in exiting City Hall./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo turned to follow, but paused as he heard Mayor Dennison clear his throat. He silently scolded himself for attempting to leave without a formal dismissal, before turning back around, giving a firm salute./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison only chuckled. "At ease, Captain. I don't suppose you have that report ready for me yet?" Mayor Dennison inquired./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo suddenly realized that he had forgotten all about the report. "Oh…No sir, I'm still waiting on that reconnaissance scout to return. I suspect they should be back before the festivities begin later today."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison gave a hum of approval. "Fair enough. I suppose I'm just being an impatient old yordle."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo shook his head. "Not at all sir! Maybe you're just anxious? I am too. Noxian warbands are no laughing matter. If they aren't back by tomorrow, I'll lead a search party myself."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison leaned forward in his chair. "Bandle City couldn't ask for a finer soldier. I hope to see you among the festivities today, yes?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo nodded." Of course!"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison smiled. "Oh…and do make Master Kennen feels at home. He has endured much being away from his people for so long. You're dismissed for the day Captain Teemo."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo gave the Mayor a firm salute. "Thank you, sir!" He said before turning to leave./p
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p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen, Akali, and Kennen stepped out onto the main pavilion overlooking the Bandle City Square./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"There was a brief silence as Kennen stood before his two colleagues, trying to gather his words./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You two have done a great thing for me…" The yordle muttered, keeping his gaze to the ground./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You can thank Akali. She…reminded me of what was truly important. We would have been fools to ignore that a yordle is not whole without the company of their own. We suggest that you make the best of your time here, Kennen. We will await your return…" Shen said./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Eagerly." Akali added, a slight smile forming on her lips, causing Shen to nod in agreeance./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Eagerly." He echoed./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen looked up to the two before suddenly dashing forward, embracing both of their legs in a tight embrace. Akali gave an uncharacteristic chuckle at the rare gesture and knelt down to hug the yordle properly, giving Shen a tug on his tunic, urging him to do the same. Shen, obviously not used to…hugging…knelt down apprehensively, embracing the yordle as well./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Thank you…" Kennen said in a muffled voice before breaking the embrace and stepping back./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen and Akali rose to their feet and took each other's hands before Shen spoke once more. "Remember, three months."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen gave a bow of the head./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Suddenly, a strange flood of purple energy started to circle the two ninjas as their very forms began to dissipate into thin air. They both closed their eyes and assumed a ridged stance./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen looked back up to the two. "Shen? Akali?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"The two opened their eyes for but a moment, looking down to the yordle./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I forgive you." Kennen muttered softly./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"The two bowed their heads accordingly, before the magical energy suddenly engulfed their bodies, and within a flash of light, they were gone./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen gave a heavy sigh./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Well, I'd say today is off to a decent start, wouldn't you say?" He heard a voice from behind call out./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"He glanced over his shoulder to Teemo who stood by the doorway with crossed arms./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""No kidding…I'm still not totally convinced this isn't just one big dream." Kennen chimed, giving the scout a snicker./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo suddenly looked very seriously at the ninja. "Actually Kennen…it is. This has all been a dream…and now it's time to wake up."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"For a brief moment, Kennen looked absolutely mortified. However, he quickly caught on as he saw a mischievous grin creep across the scout's lips./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""…Jerk." Kennen muttered, prompting the scout to burst out laughing. He responded by pulling Teemo's green cap over his face, causing him to laugh even harder. Eventually, Kennen joined in on the infectious laughter before giving a happy sigh. "So…now what?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo's grin persisted. "We've got a festival to go to!" The scout suddenly pulled back his helmet and removed a slightly smothered marigold flower from underneath, before holding it out to Kennen. "And I'd like you to come with me."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen blinked, instantly recognizing this as an old tradition of the Summer's End Festival in which two yordles present each other with a flower to declare enduring fellowship for the seasons to come. Though it was not uncommon among family and friends, it was mainly a tradition reserved for lovers. Thus, Kennen gave the flower a confused and apprehensive look./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Oh…I…" He spluttered his words, causing Teemo to turn a little pale. He slowly began to retract the flower./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen suddenly ran down the steps, leaving Teemo alone and more than confused./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"He kneeled down to collect one of the many flowers littering the square, before sprinting back to the top and presenting it to Teemo, a wide smile forming across his face./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo's worried look shifted to joy as they exchanged flowers, Kennen fixing his to Teemo's helmet, and Teemo placing his behind Kennen's ear./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"The two turned to look out over the Bandle City Square, which now bustled with celebration, jubilation, and color./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""emThis will be a day to remember/em." Kennen thought to himself./p
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p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"strongHope you enjoyed! Special thanks to those leaving reviews, always appreciated! Next chapter may or may not warrant an M rating, I'm not quite sure yet. We'll see!/strong/p
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p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"The trek to City Hall was a dreadfully quiet one, at least for Teemo. He had no doubts that Mayor Jadefellow would agree to sign the treaty between the nations of Demacia, Ionia, and Piltover. It was a sound plan, to be sure, especially with the growing presence of Noxian warbands in the northern Sablestones. He was unsure, however, just how the interactions between Kennen and the two Kinkou ninjas would pan out. If he knew Kennen as well as he thought did, he knew him to be a passionate yordle when it came to things that were important to him. Yet walking beside him, he could practically feel the conflict radiating from his friend./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen kept his gaze forward and his conversation short, his mind much too preoccupied with what was to come. He silently thanked Teemo for acknowledging this, occasionally flashing the scout a half smile as they walked./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen's brows furrowed as he thought. Perhaps he was overreacting…/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"No. He wasn't. What Shen and Akali did was wrong. But to sacrifice everything he has worked toward in the Kinkou, to abandon his place within the Triumvirate, would be a slap in the face of the people of Ionia, himself, and his parents. He thought back to his mother and father, and what they would have wanted him to do. They would have wanted him to persevere and continue down the path he was on; the path he was destined to walk./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"He couldn't dishonor that./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"On the other hand, he could not deny the emptiness and loneliness he felt when in Ionia. He couldn't ignore that it was on the verge of consuming him. No yordle should be away from his people for that long./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Even if he was to stay, where would he live?/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"His eyes shifted back to Teemo. The scout had given him refuge when he needed it and even offered his home on a whim, but Kennen did not feel like testing the extent of that generosity./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo caught the glance and quirked a brow. "There's a lot on your mind, I can tell." The scout said with an ever present smile./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I'm having doubts." Kennen muttered. "Shen was right…I may have let my emotions get the better of me."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo shrugged a shoulder. "Maybe. Or maybe he just needs to see things from a yordle's perspective. Family and home…it means everything to a yordle."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen tilted his head. He wasn't wrong...But Shen would argue that Ionia was just as much his home now as Bandle City was then./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"As they neared the city square, Kennen saw what looked to be preparations for some kind of event. A small army of yordles were hard at work decorating the streets with a plethora of bright, colorful flowers and ribbons. From streetlamp to streetlamp, long streamers fixed with bundles of marigolds and dahlias hung. A few yordles carrying baskets randomly tossed pedals into the air, littering the streets with an amalgam of brilliant colors. Along the streets leading into the square, long, extravagantly decorated tables were being set up, along with what appeared to be massive keg barrels, no doubt carrying delicious ale./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo could see the curious look on Kennen's face and spoke up. "Surely you remember the Summer's End Festival?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"It suddenly clicked in Kennen's mind. "Oh! Of course I do! How could I forget…"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen smiled as he began to reminisce about the last Summer's End Festival he had attended, many, many years ago. The Festival, which as the name would suggest, celebrated the end of the summer season and the beginning of the autumn season. It was kind of a big deal in Bandle City and was revered as one of the oldest yordle holidays in existence./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo pointed a finger to what appeared to be a large stage platform being build beside City Hall. "I've heard from the grapevine that musicians from the Yordle Academy in Piltover are coming to perform. They're apparently bringing some type of 'new sound technology' with them, too! It's got everyone pretty excited."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen eyed the stage. Every inch of it seemed to be covered with colorful flowers, prompting him to wonder how anyone would be able to perform without kicking up a storm of pedals./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"The pair stopped just as they passed by the stage, now standing before the Bandle City Headquarters./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""…Here we are." Teemo said, gesturing to the stairway leading up to City Hall. "You ready?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen blinked as he looked up to the large, imposing building. He gave a single nod before following Teemo up the stairs and inside. "Here goes nothing."/p
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p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""…And what of the Freljord? The Avarosan? Queen Ashe cannot ignore these turn of events." Mayor Dennison proclaimed, pushing a pair of spectacles back over his nose./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen shook his head. "They are consumed by their own petty civil wars. The Avarosan seem to think that a Noxian war machine could not possibly survive the cold reaches of the Freljord during the winter season…and perhaps they couldn't, alone. But with this new alliance that Noxus has conjured, I suspect they could lay waste to any nation that stood in its way. Thus is the reason we ask that Bandle City join in an accord with Ionia, Demacia, and Piltover. Alone, we are all powerless against such a vast force, but together, we may extinguish any ideas of warfare before it even began. The Avarosan are also weary of joining in an alliance with Demacia, considering they denied Freljordian refugees during Noxus' 'Barbarian Pacification Campaigns'…"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison gave a slow, steady nod, his eyes fixed upon the document before him./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"His ears suddenly perked as the door to the office opened and two yordles quietly entered. Shen and Akali also turned their heads to look./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Ah, Captain Teemo. I was just beginning to think you weren't going to show up to this meeting." Dennison's eyes shifted to Kennen. "Master Kennen? I trust you've enjoyed your time in the city? Shen and Akali tell me you hail from the Yordle Lands. It is always nice to see a son of Bandle returning home." The stout yordle gave Kennen a proud smile./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen gave a respectful bow to the Mayor of Bandle City upon being acknowledged. "Yes sir. It's been…an interesting experience." He muttered. He briefly glanced to Teemo, who seemed as ridged as a plank with his chin held high and his arms firmly at his side./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Dennison cleared his throat. "Are you not going to join your colleagues?" He said, giving Kennen an odd look./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen pursed his lips and blinked before looking over to Shen and Akali, who were looking at him expectantly. Awkwardly and silently, he walked over to the two, his shoulders slumping some./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo watched him from the corner of his eye, a small frown forming on his lips as he could sense the uncertainty in his friend's movements. His gaze shifted back to Mayor Dennison as he spoke./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""There are many in the Bandle City High Council who would have me deny this treaty outright." The Mayor took the document in hand and swiveled in his chair some, before giving a thoughtful hum./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo silently cursed under his breath. If it wasn't for Mayor Dennison, the Bandle City High Council would have thrown the Yordle Lands into chaos long ago. They wanted nothing more than to shut Bandle City off from the rest of the world, at least that's what Teemo had gathered during his many years serving in the military./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"He could recall a time when Bandle City was on the brink of civil disarray. Many of its citizens agreed with the council's platform to keep the Yordle Lands insular, though many more thought it should be opened up to the tradewinds of Valoran. The latter sentiment was eventually embraced when Mayor Dennison opened trade negotiations with Demacia and Piltover. Bandle City's economy has grown tenfold ever since. There was even a time, prior to the Noxian Invasion of Ionia, when Bandle City accepted Noxian traders./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"It was no surprise to Teemo then, that the High Council was eager to shoot down any talks of joint-alliances being made with other nations./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Captain Teemo, what are your thoughts?" Dennison asked, looking to Teemo with a curious expression./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"The fur on the back of Teemo's neck bristled as he was called upon. Shen and Akali looked to the scout in question./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Sir?" He piped./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You are one of Bandle City's most distinguished scouts. What are your thoughts on this treaty? It is, after all, only fair that I ask a soldier his thoughts on what is potentially a treaty of war." Dennison said./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo flexed his jaw as he thought. "Noxian warbands are one thing…but an entire army? I don't think Bandle City could weather such an assault, even with the bulk of our own armies. I suspect that if there was an invasion, Bandle City would be lost. This treaty is sound." Teemo gave a confident nod before quickly adding a 'Sir' at the end of his statement./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen and Akali, seeming satisfied with the scout's answer, looked back to Mayor Dennison, who nodded accordingly. "Mm. Indeed. Fortunately, there strongwere some/strong in the High Council who strongdid/strong agree to the terms of this treaty…just enough, I might add."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison suddenly plucked a pen from his desk and inscribed his signature upon the treaty before rotating it toward Shen and Akali, and sliding it forth. "Our answer is yes, Shen of the Kinkou. Bandle City will serve in this alliance."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo gave a quiet sigh of relief. Shen and Akali also seemed to relax some. Kennen stood unwaveringly still, obviously preoccupied with his own thoughts./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen stepped forward and collected the document. "Word will be sent to Piltover and Demacia immediately."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison nodded. "I suspect you will be returning to Ionia, then?" He eyed the Triumvirate, collectively./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen nodded. "There is much that remains to be done. Remember, there will be another summit meeting in three months' time. In Demacia, you and the respective leaders of each nation involved will meet to discuss the conditions of this treaty, as well as strategies for when the combined might of Noxus, Bilgewater, and Zaun make their first engagement of war."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"The Mayor gave another nod. "Yes, as we discussed. Then I consider this meeting over-…" He paused for a moment, his eyes suddenly shifting to Kennen. "Ah! I nearly forgot…"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen blinked./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison suddenly nodded to Shen. "I believe you three have some type of…personal business to attend to, before you leave?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen and Akali both gave a single nod and looked down to Kennen./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen stiffened. emWhat were they planning?.../em/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen began. "Akali and I discussed, in length, possible ways to…remedy the situation we have all found ourselves in."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Akali spoke. "We understand that your anger with us is justified, Kennen. For that, we can only hope that you will find it in your heart to forgive us, and still know that we did what we did for the good of the Kinkou…"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen narrowed his eyes, still unsure as to what exactly they were getting at. emAn apology was not going to fix this./em/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen spoke again. "But we are not blind to your troubles, Kennen. We understand that being away from your own kind is…problematic. Speaking with Mayor Dennison has reassured us of this fact." Shen gestured a hand to the Mayor, who seemed to be listening intently. "You know as well as Akali and I that the Triumvirate would fall without you, Kennen. That is a risk we simply cannot take. Thus, I would like to offer an alternative ultimatum." Shen continued./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen quirked a brow. "Go on."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""After speaking with Mayor Dennison, we have arranged for you to stay in Bandle City for approximately one month. After that allotted time, you will be expected to return to Ionia" Shen said, looking back down to Kennen./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen didn't know what to say. This was truly an alternative he couldn't refuse. It still astonished Kennen that Shen could put aside his pride so easily to preserve the interests of the Kinkou…and though he knew it was not necessarily a direct kindness on Shen's part, Kennen was thankful none the less. He also had no doubts that Akali had a significant hand in convincing Shen that this was the right recourse, and for that he was also thankful./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Akali broke the silence that Kennen had let fester. "Are these terms agreeable, Kennen?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen looked up to the two and gave a low bow." Yes! Yes. They are." He said with a stammer./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen nodded. "There is…one condition." He said before nodding to Mayor Dennison, who nodded in return and looked to Kennen./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""While you enjoy your stay in Bandle City, you will be expected to play some part in its defense…should the need ever arise." The Mayor suddenly smiled. "And if the stories of the power Shen and Akali have told me you possess are indeed true, I believe you will serve Bandle City well, for the short amount of time that you are here."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen gave the Mayor a bow. "Mayor Dennison, sir, it would be my utmost honor!"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison nodded. "Then it is decided. You are hereby recognized as a diplomatic guest of Bandle City. You will be given quarter here in City Hall-..."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo interjected before Mayor Dennison could finish. "Actually, Mayor Jadefellow, I'd be happy to open my home to Kennen during his stay in Bandle City." The scout looked to Kennen, giving him a confident smile./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison chuckled. "A model of yordle hospitality! Does this agree with you, Master Kennen?" He said, looking to the ninja./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen nodded quickly, returning Teemo's smile with one of his own. He was still kind of dumbfounded by the sudden turn of events, but ecstatic none the less./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Very well!" Mayor Dennison exclaimed before looking to Shen and Akali. "Well, I will not keep you two waiting any longer. Safe travelling back to Ionia."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen and Akali gave the Mayor a bow before turning back to Kennen. "We would like you to see us off." Shen said./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen nodded and joined the two in exiting City Hall./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo turned to follow, but paused as he heard Mayor Dennison clear his throat. He silently scolded himself for attempting to leave without a formal dismissal, before turning back around, giving a firm salute./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison only chuckled. "At ease, Captain. I don't suppose you have that report ready for me yet?" Mayor Dennison inquired./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo suddenly realized that he had forgotten all about the report. "Oh…No sir, I'm still waiting on that reconnaissance scout to return. I suspect they should be back before the festivities begin later today."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison gave a hum of approval. "Fair enough. I suppose I'm just being an impatient old yordle."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo shook his head. "Not at all sir! Maybe you're just anxious? I am too. Noxian warbands are no laughing matter. If they aren't back by tomorrow, I'll lead a search party myself."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison leaned forward in his chair. "Bandle City couldn't ask for a finer soldier. I hope to see you among the festivities today, yes?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo nodded." Of course!"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Mayor Dennison smiled. "Oh…and do make Master Kennen feels at home. He has endured much being away from his people for so long. You're dismissed for the day Captain Teemo."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo gave the Mayor a firm salute. "Thank you, sir!" He said before turning to leave./p
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p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen, Akali, and Kennen stepped out onto the main pavilion overlooking the Bandle City Square./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"There was a brief silence as Kennen stood before his two colleagues, trying to gather his words./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You two have done a great thing for me…" The yordle muttered, keeping his gaze to the ground./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""You can thank Akali. She…reminded me of what was truly important. We would have been fools to ignore that a yordle is not whole without the company of their own. We suggest that you make the best of your time here, Kennen. We will await your return…" Shen said./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Eagerly." Akali added, a slight smile forming on her lips, causing Shen to nod in agreeance./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Eagerly." He echoed./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen looked up to the two before suddenly dashing forward, embracing both of their legs in a tight embrace. Akali gave an uncharacteristic chuckle at the rare gesture and knelt down to hug the yordle properly, giving Shen a tug on his tunic, urging him to do the same. Shen, obviously not used to…hugging…knelt down apprehensively, embracing the yordle as well./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Thank you…" Kennen said in a muffled voice before breaking the embrace and stepping back./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Shen and Akali rose to their feet and took each other's hands before Shen spoke once more. "Remember, three months."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen gave a bow of the head./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Suddenly, a strange flood of purple energy started to circle the two ninjas as their very forms began to dissipate into thin air. They both closed their eyes and assumed a ridged stance./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen looked back up to the two. "Shen? Akali?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"The two opened their eyes for but a moment, looking down to the yordle./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""I forgive you." Kennen muttered softly./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"The two bowed their heads accordingly, before the magical energy suddenly engulfed their bodies, and within a flash of light, they were gone./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen gave a heavy sigh./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Well, I'd say today is off to a decent start, wouldn't you say?" He heard a voice from behind call out./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"He glanced over his shoulder to Teemo who stood by the doorway with crossed arms./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""No kidding…I'm still not totally convinced this isn't just one big dream." Kennen chimed, giving the scout a snicker./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo suddenly looked very seriously at the ninja. "Actually Kennen…it is. This has all been a dream…and now it's time to wake up."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"For a brief moment, Kennen looked absolutely mortified. However, he quickly caught on as he saw a mischievous grin creep across the scout's lips./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""…Jerk." Kennen muttered, prompting the scout to burst out laughing. He responded by pulling Teemo's green cap over his face, causing him to laugh even harder. Eventually, Kennen joined in on the infectious laughter before giving a happy sigh. "So…now what?"/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo's grin persisted. "We've got a festival to go to!" The scout suddenly pulled back his helmet and removed a slightly smothered marigold flower from underneath, before holding it out to Kennen. "And I'd like you to come with me."/p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen blinked, instantly recognizing this as an old tradition of the Summer's End Festival in which two yordles present each other with a flower to declare enduring fellowship for the seasons to come. Though it was not uncommon among family and friends, it was mainly a tradition reserved for lovers. Thus, Kennen gave the flower a confused and apprehensive look./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""Oh…I…" He spluttered his words, causing Teemo to turn a little pale. He slowly began to retract the flower./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Kennen suddenly ran down the steps, leaving Teemo alone and more than confused./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"He kneeled down to collect one of the many flowers littering the square, before sprinting back to the top and presenting it to Teemo, a wide smile forming across his face./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"Teemo's worried look shifted to joy as they exchanged flowers, Kennen fixing his to Teemo's helmet, and Teemo placing his behind Kennen's ear./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"The two turned to look out over the Bandle City Square, which now bustled with celebration, jubilation, and color./p
p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;""emThis will be a day to remember/em." Kennen thought to himself./p
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p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"strongHope you enjoyed! Special thanks to those leaving reviews, always appreciated! Next chapter may or may not warrant an M rating, I'm not quite sure yet. We'll see!/strong/p