HI!!!!!!! THANK YOU FOR THE REVIEWS!!!! I LOVE YOU ALL!!!! Ike and Ranulf love you too!! This is my longest chapter ever written! I've been trying to top my longest chapters ever since I started this story, but this is my limit! I finally reached the limit! There is no way any other chapter of mine can get longer than this! I also have some thank you's to some ppl but I'll do that after the chapter so… ENJOY THIS CHAPTER!!!

--s2--

Ranulf woke up late in the morning and sat up in the bed. He rubbed his green eye and lightly brushed over the red one before he looked around. The sun was blinded him for a moment but he soon got use to it and was able to see again. Yawning, he placed his cold hand on his warm forehead. He kept his hand there for awhile hoping that it would relieve his headache.

"How do you feel?" A familiar voice asked. He felt Takashi place a hand on his left shoulder.

Ranulf chuckled a little. "I've felt better."

"Move your hand…" Ranulf did so but was wondering who had said that. A soft hand replaced his hand on his head and Ranulf saw that Yuki was here. The black haired Laguz cat removed her hand and left without a word.

Ranulf looked over at Takashi. The said Laguz looked back. Finally, Takashi understood Ranulf's expression. "Oh, uh, Zarack said that you and I were staying in here to clean up and Yuuta sent Yuki to help us since he had some work to do."

"I see…" Ranulf stared in the direction where Yuki had left to. She was searching for something in the bathroom. She soon came back with a glass of water and two small pills in her hands. She passed Ranulf the pills and water and told him that they will bring down his fever. The blue cat nodded and swallowed the pills and water.

Takashi placed his hand on Ranulf's head. "You are very warm."

"I'll be fine." Ranulf threw the blankets off him and tossed his legs slowly to the side of the bed. Yuki asked him what he was doing when he stood up and started heading for the door. "I need to find someone." Ranulf answered casually.

"What?" Takashi ran over to him and grabbed his wrist to keep him in the room. "You need to rest. Getting rid of that fever is the first thing you need to work on."

"Zarack said that it can last for a long time. Even if I do rest Kinya will eventually come here and find me sick and unable to work and therefore useless to keep alive." Ranulf weakly pulled away from Takashi. The said cat refused to let go. "If I work as if nothing is wrong than he will have no reason to execute me. I'll have the fever for longer but at least I would live longer too. I won't die here!"

"We can keep you hidden!" Takashi yelled. "Kinya won't ever know that you're not working."

"He's the one who poisoned me. Of course he would know something is up if I stay in hiding."

"There has to be a way so you won't push yourself too hard."

"Well there isn't!" Ranulf tugged hard on his wrist and escaped Takashi's hold. "There isn't a way out right now! All I can do is pretend that I'm alright and maybe, hopefully, Kinya will think that I'm stronger than he thinks I am and the poison didn't work on me!"

Ranulf's eyes closed tightly as he started to cough harshly. He kneeled to the ground and covered his mouth as air began to be a problem. Yuki was beside him in an instant rubbing his back to calm him. Takashi could only watch as Ranulf suffered.

The coughing subsided leaving Ranulf panting for well needed air. He removed his hand from his mouth to find fresh crimson blood pooling in his hand. He panted for a while longer when a shot of pain caused him to yelp slightly and curl up holding his abdomen; the blood in his hand splattered on the floor and his bare leg.

The door behind Ranulf opened. Yuuta came in. Yuki and Takashi panicked while Ranulf was clueless to what was going on. Just then, to Ranulf's horror, Yuuta's happy voice spoke.

"My, my." he chuckled. "What do we have here?" Ranulf's eyes widened as he stood up straight quickly despite his pain. "What's wrong little kitten?"

Ranulf was lost for words. "N-nothing, Master Yuuta." was all he could come up with.

The spiky purple haired man frowned slightly. "Really?" He walked closer to Ranulf and looked him over. "For a moment it looked like you were in pain."

Ranulf stayed where he stood watching Yuuta with careful eyes. "I was merely searching for spots on the floor that may have be scrubbed to get out." His words were flowing steadily now, much to his relief. "Now, if you would excuse us, we better go get some new blankets and pillows for the bed." He nodded over to Yuki and Takashi before the three of them passed by Yuuta and headed down the hall. Yuuta watched them as they leave with a bored expression.

--s2--

Ranulf was wondering around random halls trying to find who he was searching for. Seeing Shinon yesterday was a slight shock to him, yet maybe he should of saw it coming; he did betray Ike before. He had to find the red head sniper for some reason that Ranulf didn't know about. Something bugged him. Thinking that it was and urge to yell at the jerk he continued to search.

After they were out of Yuuta's sight and ear shot he told Yuki and Takashi to go find the blankets he told Yuuta they would be looking for and left by himself. It took awhile to get the two cats to let him go, but they eventually got tired of fighting. Ranulf was made to promise to come back before lunch hour though. Being a man of his word, that made his time limited.

"I don't know why he's here. Of all Sub-humans I would think they would never be able to find him let alone catch him."

Ranulf stopped at the sound of the familiar voice. It was coming from the door to the left that was opened a bit. Quietly he walked up to the side of the door and listened in.

"Wasn't he, Ike, and the rest of the group out of Tellius? When did they get back?"

"How the hell am I to know when? First it was the two Herons and now that two colour eyed cat! I'm tired of this!"

Ranulf's eyes widened to the mention of the Herons.

"You're starting to care about the Laguz?" There was a slight chuckle. "I never thought I would see the day, Shinon."

"Shut up! I'm only doing this for the money! I never said I cared!" Shinon yelled slightly frustrated. Ranulf heard footsteps, and before he knew it the door opened and ran into his nose making him fall to the floor. "What the hell was that?" Shinon opened the door completely to find Ranulf covering his nose with his left hand.

More footsteps where heard. "What is it, Shinon?" Gatrie came up behind Shinon. He froze when he saw Ranulf, who was checking for blood.

Shinon watched as Ranulf got to his feet and glared at him. "Why are you here, Shinon?" He saw Gatrie. "And you took Gatrie with you just like last time."

Shinon snarled lightly. "I'm only here for the money." He crossed his arms. "I was never fond of you Sub-humans anyway." He passed and started to walk away. Ranulf broke at that point.

WHAM!

Ranulf shoved Shinon down with all his might. Shinon got up and glared at Ranulf. "Are we really going to fight like this again? It's a waste of my time!"

"You are a bastard!" Ranulf yelled. "Do you enjoy killing us off?"

"Maybe I do, maybe I don't." Shinon responded. "Does either answer make a difference for you?"

"Maybe it does." Ranulf said.

"Why did you come down to find me anyway?"

"To tell the truth, I have no idea." Ranulf shook his head a bit. "I thought you could help the Laguz, but as I can see that is never going to happen." Ranulf started to feel light headed from standing for too long with his fever.

Shinon didn't say anything for a moment. He sighed and started to walk away again. "Come on, Gatrie, let's go."

Gatrie didn't know what to do for a second. Finally he looked at Ranulf. "Sorry about this. I am trying to make him leave this place, but he keeps going on and on about how good the pay is here."

"Don't apologize for him." Ranulf said looking down.

"I promise that I will try harder to get him to change his mind."

"Thank you."

Gatrie nodded to Ranulf and ran over with Shinon. After the two turned to the right the cat could no longer see them.

Ranulf came down to the ground with his legs up and his head in his hands; his arms rested on his knees. 'The room won't stop spinning…' He sat there for a few minutes only wishing for no one to come down the hall way and see him. He cursed lightly when he heard footsteps. He got up quickly and soon regretted that. Nausea washed over him and the walls around him started to circle him faster that they already were. He saw someone walk up to him, but there was no way Ranulf could focus his eyes on the person. He stumbled a little bit before he felt himself fall forward. There was a voice that called out as warm hands caught him.

The person was talking to him. Ranulf looked in the direction of the voice but the words came muffled. He couldn't hear anything, not to mention see who was holding him. Soon enough Ranulf closed his eyes and his body slumped in the stranger's arms.

--s2--

Ike, Rhys, Soren, Sothe, Micaiah, Mist, and the three Laguz kings all sat in a circle. It had become midday while they were flying over to the outskirts of Siene. Ike had already told everyone about the situation about Ranulf and the poison that Kinya had given him. Rhys and Mist didn't like the sound of that at all.

"We need to get Ranulf out either tonight or tomorrow morning." Soren said out loud. "The only thing is we have no idea where to look in Siene."

"Kinya doesn't seem to be an easy going guy." Rhys hummed. "I'm worried about the effects that poison may have of Ranulf's body."

Tibarn crossed his arms. "I could go fly around and look for something that would give us a clue to what we are looking for."

"No." Soren said not missing a beat. "These people are going to be looking for any Laguz they can find. If one just happens to come up to their door step there is no possible way they can just ignore it."

"Right…" Tibarn looked away thinking.

There was a extremely long silence. Ike was gritting his teeth as he thought about a solution to the problem. The wind blow softly through the trees as time passed by. Birds chirped quietly and one landed on the grass. Ike stared at the lone brown bird as it hopped this way and that, it's head twitched from side to side once in a while. Ike's dark blue eyes then brightened.

"I know!" He yelled as he pointed at the small bird. "Yune!"

"Yune?" Everyone repeated. They look at where Ike was pointing. The then bird flew away.

Soren was the first to clue in. "Of course…" He turned to look at the sky. "Yune could fly around and see where everyone is."

"Micaiah," Ike called getting the silver haired girl's attention. "Can you call Yune for us?"

She nodded. Looking up like Soren was she yelled out. "Yune!"

There was silence as everyone searched for the little orange bird. Soon enough the bird came over from behind a tree and flew down to perched on Micaiah's outstretched hand. Micaiah closed her eyes for a moment before reopening them with crimson orbs.

Yume tilted her head to the side in question. "What is it that you what to ask of me?"

Ike stepped forward. "Yune, please, could you fly around and find out where Ranulf is being kept?"

"The other Laguz as well." Soren said. "I have a feeling that some are being held in a different direction."

Yune nodded. "They are." She turned her head towards the north east. "Most are being held over in a dungeon in that direction." She looked back at Soren. "You can't miss it, there is a lot of security."

She walked up to Soren slowly. The mage stood still wondering what the Goddess was doing. She raised her hand up and rested it on Soren's head. Soren felt a small panic as a white light grew brighter between Yume's palm and his forehead where he had the branded sign permanently tattooed. Everything went blurry and soon he found himself floating beside a large stoned tower.

"This is where most Laguz are being held. As well as Rafiel and Leanne are being held." Yume's voice came inside his mind. Soren simply took in as many details as possible before the setting was switched.

It was a kingdom. "This is where Ranulf is being held. Let me show you around." In a flash every single room was shown to him. He saw the people that were in some of the rooms. Laguz being killed off in some sort of stadium, people talking, people tormenting Laguz. To Soren it was simply horrifying. Finally, the tour was over. He now knew the kingdom like the back of his own hand, but everything he saw inside shook him up and sent him to his knees in the grass.

"Soren!" Ike knelt down beside him.

Yune had a hurt expression. "It's disgusting, isn't it?" She asked with her soft childish voice. Soren nodded his head slightly. "You must save them soon. I also gained some information on Ranulf."

Ike jolted his head to Yune. "What is it?"

--s2--

Ranulf opened his eyes to find nothing but darkness. He looked around but nothing was able to be seen. He soon realised that he had a blindfold on. 'What's going on…?' he asked himself. He suddenly felt more alarmed. His bare feet were touching the freezing stone flooring and his arms where being held up by many chains that where digging into his skin. He stepped forward to find out his limits on movement. One, two… thre-- only two and a half small steps were able to be taken in each direction. Huffing, Ranulf stood straight so his arms weren't given any pressure from the chains.

Hours went by and the only sound that was heard was Ranulf's own breathing and coughing. His stomach did back flips and summersaults. He hadn't eaten for at least a day; not that he felt hungry. Being sick with the poison made food look like the most disgusting thing in the world.

Creaking was heard and Ranulf knew it was the door that lead into the room that he was being kept in. All his senses jumped to alarm as shoes tapped towards him. He waited and the steps stopped in front of him. There was no telling who the person was. Neither one of them spoke, Ranulf didn't think talking would be the best idea here.

Without warning a hand rested on his hip. Reacting quickly, Ranulf jumped high in the air using the chains for some help, despite the pain it put him through, and spun around to kick the hand away. He landed calmly on the cold floor and leaped up again kicked straight up and struck the person below the chin. The person grunted telling Ranulf from the low voice that it was a man who was in the room with him. He landed nicely and waited for the man to say something.

Since the man did not talk Ranulf said something first. "Don't touch me." He commanded.

"Heh…" the man chuckled a little. "This isn't the place for you to give orders." Ranulf knew the voice. It was Kinya. "From now till the time I leave, you will be taking orders from me."

Ranulf debated on what he could do. The way Kinya was holding him yesterday wasn't a good sign plus this was the guy who wanted him dead. Keeping firm none the less, Ranulf spoke without his voice wavering in fear. "What do you want from me?"

Footsteps. Kinya was moving forward again. "Oh, nothing important." A hand ran through his short blue hair. "Just your body."

Ranulf growled. He could feel Kinya's body next to him and with the sense of touch he found Kinya's leg and kicked it hard. "You're sick!" Ranulf yelled. Since Ranulf was blinded he wasn't yelling at Kinya directly, but that didn't matter much.

Ranulf heard Kinya getting off the floor. There was a sigh and Kinya walked the opposite way from the blue furred Laguz cat. He soon came back and Ranulf listened to the sound of something banging on the ground. He guessed that it was a weight. Thinking this, Ranulf moved away as far as he could go. Kinya grabbed his legs and dragged him back. Ranulf struggled with all his might and tried to get away. He got a foot out and stepped on Kinya's hand. Kinya didn't react to the small pain in his hand and cuffed Ranulf's left ankle to the weight. The cat snarled and kicked Kinya in the face with his free foot. Kinya caught the foot though and took a tight grip on it. Ranulf did everything he could to pull away, but Kinya had snapped the other cuff around the ankle and Ranulf could no longer move or hit the Beorc. He also noticed that he legs were spread making him feel most uncomfortable.

Kinya backed up to take in the sight of the Laguz cat chained up with the expression of pure hatred. He smiled. "Now things will be a lot easier."

He advanced and began to touch Ranulf's skin gently. Ranulf bit his lip and tried to ignore the wandering hands. The man's head hovered over Ranulf's and he rested his chin on top of the chopped blue hair. "Your hair is a little greasy, but I guess that's my fault. Not being able to bathe since your too busy taking orders." He rose his right hand and played with Ranulf's ears. They twitched away each time he laid a finger on them; it amused Kinya.

Finally, Ranulf grew tired and pulled away. It strained his arms to do so for the chains were digging into his skin and causing cuts and drawing blood. Ranulf's hands curled into fists at the pain but didn't let out a single cry of agony. Kinya merely smirked as he watched Ranulf attempt to escape him.

Kinya stepped forward trapping Ranulf in his excruciating position. The cat's arm screamed in pain, but if he moved he would be rubbing against Kinya and that would be Ranulf's worse nightmare. Kinya wrapped his arms around Ranulf's waist and brought him close. Ranulf mentally shrieked. He turned his head to the left; he could feel Kinya's breath on his neck.

Ranulf couldn't take it anymore and murmured. Kinya didn't hear him and asked for Ranulf to repeat himself. "I said, get off of me…!" He growled and bit Kinya's shoulder as hard as he could. Kinya gasped and receded. Ranulf stood up right again taking the strain off his arms where warm blood ran freely down into his blue hair the rest of his body.

Kinya looked at his right shoulder and saw blood running down from the bite mark Ranulf had made. He chuckled softly. "This is one of the reasons why I hate your kind. Your actions are always so hostile." He circled around Ranulf so he was behind the cat. The blinded cat heard his movements and knew where he was. "Who ever let your disgusting bread go was an idiot. Letting Sub-humans run free is a mistake. I don't even see the point to your existents."

"Funny," Ranulf's voice was stern. "I was going to say the same thing about you. People like you are the reason why this world is so evil. We could just life in peace, but no, you have to make such a fuss other us." He smirked, but Kinya couldn't see it. Ranulf lifted his tail and swished it around. "Maybe it's because your jealous of our tails and wings."

The Beorc ran his fingers down the line of fur that started on the middle of Ranulf's back and towards his tail. Ranulf leaned forward, away from the touch, but Kinya grabbed his tail roughly and pulled him back. Kinya towered over Ranulf with a glare and smile. He whispered in the cat's furry ear. "Oh, I'm positive that it's not that."

He tore away Ranulf's only source of clothing. Ranulf didn't see that coming and started to panic. He squirmed about trying everything in his power to get Kinya away from him. His attempts where unfortunately useless. He could no longer kick, no longer bite, no longer get away.

"Yet even though your bread is revolting," Kinya rubbed Ranulf's ass lightly. "…there is something about you that turns me on." Quickly, Kinya took his hand and jolted Ranulf's head to face him. He took off the blindfold to find frightened green and crimson orbs staring back at him in the dramatic lighting of the only candle that was lit in the far corner. "These eyes. I remember then from years ago.

"You and Zarack were friends ever since his mother died. That sickening Sub-human." Kinya let go of Ranulf's head and let his hands roam all over the cat's body. "His father wasn't any better though; falling in love with that… creature." Ranulf gasped when Kinya touched his member. Kinya smiled at the reaction and retracted his hand away and played with the blood that was still running down his arms all over Ranulf's body.

Ranulf hissed as Kinya pressed his thumb into one of the cuts on his arm. "You… you killed his mother didn't you…?"

Kinya laughed. "Smart one aren't you. I also killed his father and became his step father. You should remember that; you were around at the time."

"I remember you clearly now." Ranulf answered. "I hated you. I always knew you were bad news." Kinya touch his length again. "AH! S-stop it!"

"But it's so much fun to watch you squirm." Kinya snickered as he continued to touch him.

Ranulf tried leaning to the side to get away, but he knew it was hopeless. Kinya's hands were making him sick and he would do anything to escape the Beorc, yet nothing could be done.

"Come on," Kinya whispered. "Moan for me."

"Never…" Ranulf panted. "You nearly killed Zarack."

"He was begging for death." Kinya sighed.

"No… no he wasn't!" Ranulf resisted the urge to thrust into Kinya's hand. He will not ejaculate for this man. "He was… wanting freedom from you."

"And I was going to give him that freedom until you got in the way." Kinya tightened his grip on Ranulf making that cat choke on unwanted pleasure.

(Flashback)

"I hate you! I'm going to go live with the Laguz!" younger Zarack yelled at his step father. He backed up to teenaged Ranulf for support.

"The Sub-human?" Kinya asked his long purple hair flying in the slight wind outside. "You have to be joking, son."

"I'm not your son!" Zarack cried. "I belong with the Laguz!"

Kinya stared at Ranulf's bicoloured eyes that glared back. "This is all your fault." He announced as he began to march forward. He took out his sword from its hilt at his side and was about to run Ranulf through when Zarack shoved him.

"Stay away from him!" Zarack took out his own sword and got into a fighting stance.

"Zarack," Ranulf placed a hand on the shorter one's shoulder. "Don't get in over your head."

"I have to Ranulf…" Tears ran down Zarack's cheeks. "I must… kill him…"

"No, you don't have to." Ranulf told him. "Let's just go."

"…" Zarack thought about it. "No…" He started to run forward as he cried out a hateful scream. Kinya got ready for an attack and Ranulf's eyes grew wide as he knew what was going to happen. Kinya swung his sword and sliced through Zarack's middle. Zarack made a small noise as blood came up from his mouth and he fell to the ground.

"ZARACK!!!" Ranulf yelled. He began to run for the teen laying in the dirt.

Kinya raised his sword. "You're just as useless as your mother and father." He came down with the sword as Ranulf dived for Zarack and cut through the cat.

"Eh…" Ranulf grunted. Kinya sneered and took his sword out of Ranulf's body.

"R…Ranulf…" Zarack whispered. "I'm… so sorry…" He then closed his eyes.

Ranulf looked down at Zarack from underneath him. "Zarack…? No… Open your eyes! Zarack!"

There was a loud roar from the west. Ranulf recognized it as Caineghis; the king of Gallia. Kinya was smart to move out of the way when the great red lion came running through and picked Ranulf up by his vest with his mouth like a mother cat would with her kitten. Caineghis gave Kinya a glare and ran off with Ranulf kicking and yelling.

"NO!" the blue furred cat cried. "Zarack! We have to go back for Zarack!!" Tears streamed down his cheeks. "He'll die if we don't go back!"

Caineghis ran into the woods not too far away and placed Ranulf on the ground next to Skrimir, who was in his human form. Ranulf sobbed where he sat and the young lion Skrimir couldn't believe that he was crying; Ranulf never cries.

"Take him with the others back to Gallia." Caineghis commanded his nephew. "Our work here is done and the Beorc are beginning to dislike our stay."

Skrimir nodded as he transformed into his beast form. Ranulf suddenly stood up and scampered away from Skrimir and head back for Zarack. A blue ribbon surrounded him and he transformed. His speed picked up with the help of having four legs and he almost made it out of the forest but Caineghis picked him up again this time by his neck and now really looked like a small kitten.

"Let me go!" Ranulf mewed. "I have to save him…!" Ranulf broke into sobs and tears again. In his weakened state Ranulf had forced himself to change back subconsciously.

Skrimir came up behind his uncle with a concerned expression towards his cat friend. Caineghis turned to face Skrimir and put Ranulf on his back. Ranulf immediately clutched Skrimir's crimson fur for comfort.

"Go now, I don't want him here any longer." Caineghis told Skrimir. "These Beorc are nothing but a threat to us right now."

Skrimir nodded again. He then began to run; heading north to catch up with the rest of the Beast Laguz and lead them back to Gallia. Ranulf looked back with blurred vision and knew that Zarack would be dead by now.

(End Flashback)

"AHH!!" Ranulf screamed, his voice echoed throughout the room. Kinya had begun to thrust into him with no mercy. The poor cat could do nothing but stand there and let himself be taken forcefully by the Beorc. When ever he made the slightest of movement it only caused him more pain.

"You're so tight…" Kinya moaned as he raped the beast Laguz.

Kinya pulled in and out repeatedly as Ranulf grunted in agony. Finally, Kinya had came into Ranulf and bring the torment to an end. Kinya fixed himself up and came around to face Ranulf.

The Beorc smiled at Ranulf's broken form. "This had been fun, but I'm afraid I must take my leave." He kissed Ranulf's unresponsive lips. "Yuuta will be here in a little while and then that will be the last you will ever have to see us again. I booked your execution for tomorrow so your pain will soon be over." He walked to the door and unlocked it before it opened with a long screech. "Good-bye, Sun-human."

He blew out the candle and closed the door. Ranulf was left in the darkness.

--s2--

Ike was in shock. He stared hard at the grass below him as it swayed lightly with the gentle wind. His eyes were dulled by the news Yune had just told them. The small goddess returned to her bird form and aloud Micaiah to gain control of her body. The orange bird then flew away to find anymore information she could gather.

Everyone turned their attention to Soren waiting for and explanation for what was shown to him. The mage took in a breath before speaking. "They have Leanne and Rafiel."

"What!?" Naesala and Reyson both exclaimed at the same time.

"I don't know what happened to Nailah or Volug, who were protecting them but that's not the point right now." Soren stood up leaving Ike still frozen on the ground. "I also seen where Ranulf is right now."

These words caught Ike's attention and slowly he lifted his head up and looked at Soren with blank eyes. Sothe glanced over at Ike and wondered if it was a good idea for the mercenary to know. Soren also noticed Ike's pain, but he still had yet to find out what was bothering his friend. Sure Ranulf was a great friend to Ike, but never has Soren seen Ike so worried.

"Where is he Soren…?" Ike said calmly. Soren was silent. "Where… We already know that he's being executed tomorrow, so tell me the rest Soren." Ike stood up. "Where is Ranulf?" The seriousness in Ike's eyes was familiar and Soren knew that the blow Ike had took had subsided.

"He's being tortured in the basement of the kingdom."

Ike gave no reaction. The information that was told by Soren was being soaked into everyone's minds. Not a word was spoken. Finally Ike walked over to the mage's bag and picked out a few blank pieces of parchment and handed it to Soren.

"Give us the plan."

--s2--

Green and crimson eyes opened to be greeted by the black room he was still locked up in. Ranulf shifted and straightened himself. He felt the blood that turned all crusty and dry brake from his movement. How he had fallen asleep, Ranulf didn't know. His body was tense and his arms ached like a thousand needles where sticking out of them because of the numbing tingle that was given from the lack of blood running through them and the million cuts from the chains.

'I want out of here…' Ranulf pointed out for himself. 'Ike… help…' He sighed heavily.

"Heh heh heh…" A giggle. With Ranulf's perfect hearing he found out even with the echo that the sound was coming from the left.

"Yuuta…" Ranulf called knowingly.

"Why, yes." Yuuta chuckled. "It's really not a good thing to fall asleep when you're in a torture chamber." The candle was lit once again; the symbol for Ranulf's torment to begin.

Yuuta's deep blue eyes stared into Ranulf's tired multicoloured ones. "Father said that you're a hard one to brake." He gave Ranulf's member a short stroke making the cat gasp and close his eyes tightly. "Still aroused from the treatment. You have yet to let yourself go I see. Well, I'm not going to fix that. I'm hear to see some blood."

The purple haired Beorc strolled over to the left corner of the room behind Ranulf. He soon came back with a leather whip in his hands. Ranulf's eyes widened in fear. Yuuta smiled.

"Your fear is amusing to me." Yuuta told him.

"You're a bastard!" Ranulf yelled. He was fed up with everything now. His frightened emotions were too much for the self-controlled cat to handle. "You and your father! I--" He started a coughing fit. Yuuta couldn't help but laugh.

"So much for that big speech of yours." Yuuta ran his fingers through Ranulf's blood coated blue hair and down to his left cheek. He played with the slim line of fur as the cat coughed and then began to trace Ranulf's jaw line until Ranulf jerked his head away.

"Keep… your filthy--cough--hands… away from me…" Ranulf choked out. Finally the coughing subsided. "You son of a--"

SLAP!

Yuuta back handed Ranulf across the face, Ranulf leaned back from the strike as far as the chains holding him would allow. His feet stayed in the same place thanks to the cuffs on the weight that kept them down. The right side of Ranulf's face started to turn red from its abuse; Yuuta was satisfied by that.

"We should do something about that dirty mouth of yours." Yuuta told him. Reaching into his pocket he pulled out a piece of cloth. "This will help with that." He tired the cloth around the cat's mouth. "And to make this more fun." Pulling out another piece of cloth he tied it around Ranulf's eyes. He smiled at how helpless Ranulf looked.

Ranulf didn't move. He simply waited for Yuuta to begin his torture. Silently he concentrated to hide himself deep within his mind. He imagined that he was in Ike's arms on a hill top under a tree. The night sky was clear and stars shined brightly with the moon. It had to be the best place in the world.

Meanwhile, Yuuta ran the leather whip between his fingers. He smirked as he stepped back from Ranulf. Not wanting to miss a second he lift the whip and belted Ranulf across the chest. The cat tensed up for a moment before relaxing. To Yuuta's disappointment, not a sound came out of Ranulf's gagged mouth. Blood dripped down from the large cut over his stomach down his legs and on to the floor below.

"Hm…" Yuuta tapped his foot once. "You can't hold in screams forever." He brought the whip up and lashed Ranulf five more times and his torso. Again, Ranulf didn't react. His head hung low as if his soul had been ripped out of his body. Yuuta growled in annoyance. "Pay attention to me!" He took the whip and struck Ranulf of the cheek between the two black cloths that gagged and blinded the cat. The cheek that was already red was now bleeding. Still, Ranulf didn't respond.

Sighing, Yuuta walked close to Ranulf glaring knives that the cat couldn't see. Looking Ranulf up and down he stopped to stare at the ring in the Laguz's ear.

"Lyialan Amimusu…"

Ranulf's eyes shot opened from under the blind fold. He raised his head and lowered his eyes. Biting down on the gag he let out a silent scream.

The Beorc smirked. "Come on, Sub-human. Scream. Cry out in agony! Beg for it to stop!" In response Ranulf thrashed his head side to side saying "no". Yuuta huffed as he rolled his blue eyes. He whipped Ranulf's lift shin making Ranulf flinch.

Again, Yuuta lashed Ranulf on the chest before he walked around behind him and repeatedly struck him back. Ranulf twitched and pulled on the chains that held his arms up. From the strain put on his arms yet again the cuts on them reopened. His tail wrapped around his right leg tightly to stop himself from saying anything.

"I can do this all day, Sub-human!" Yuuta laughed. The sound of leather hitting skin excited the sadist. He put all his strength in each lash giving him a strange high. A high for blood and pain.

Ranulf was losing his cool, emotionless state. The ear rings loud screech game him a migraine and he could feel his ear drums vibrating violently. Blood covered his entire body and had formed a huge puddle beneath him. The beating Yuuta was giving him was driving over the edge. Tears drenched the blind fold and saliva did the same to the gag; half the gag was covered with blood from his cheek.

The whip crossed his should and side. Finally, Ranulf, against his will, let out a heavy sob.

Everything stopped. The high pitch noise, the whip, Yuuta's voice. Ranulf's body went limp. His breathing was rigid and the only thing left for the cat to concentrate on was the pain and to resist the urge to vomit.

A soft snicker filled the room. Ranulf's prayed to Ashera and Yune for this to end. The chuckling that was heard behind him grew louder. Soon enough if was a roar of laughter. The leather whip was thrown to the ground and Yuuta stepped around Ranulf once again to his front.

"You're a bloody mess!" Ranulf felt Yuuta's fingers touch his neck and collarbone. "Heh heh heh, I wish I can do this everyday!" Metal clanging against metal made Ranulf panic. "Scream." Yuuta commanded as he stabbed the cat's upper right arm with a dagger.

Ranulf yelled a long and ear piercing cry. The gag couldn't muffle the sound which made Yuuta smile evilly. Ten seconds went by with Ranulf screaming before Yuuta removed the knife.

The blade was dropped as Yuuta sighed with satisfaction. "Now," His hands caressed Ranulf's side and dug his nails in a large cut making the Laguz gasp and hiss in agony. "This will be the last time you'll see me and Master Kinya must of already told you." Ranulf's nausea vanished from the great feeling of relief that washed over him. "Since you execution is tomorrow morning." The cat tensed up while his heart sunk. "Awe, don't worry, I'm sure that from all the blood you lost already it won't take long for the fire to kill you. You're misery will be put to an end soon."

Yuuta untied the gag from Ranulf's mouth and allowed it to fall in the pool of blood on the floor. "Is there any last words you wish to say to me?" he asked as he removed the blind fold to reveal frightened multicoloured eyes.

Ranulf thought about saying something, but he also thought about how much more pain Yuuta could cause him. By the cat's silence Yuuta assumed that there was nothing Ranulf wanted to say and began to walk to the door. Once the door's lock was unlatched Ranulf murmured something.

Yuuta turned around. "Sorry, what was that Sub-human?" Ranulf hated the smirk on Yuuta's face.

"I said," Ranulf shifted his uncomfortable position. "'Have fun in hell,' you bastard."

Yuuta hummed. "You too." With that he slammed the door shut and locked it behind him.

Ranulf was finally alone, yet that was the only good thing at the moment. Pain ran through the cat's whole body. Blood was flowing quickly out of the wounds making him wonder if would last until tomorrow.

Sighing, the beast Laguz cat focused on anything besides the pain. Two minutes went by and he already gave up with that goal. There was no way to not think about the torment he had been left in. It left like hours had gone by when really it had only been forty-five minutes. Ranulf could no longer feel any pain in his arms for they had become numb. Ranulf started to muse. 'This is it, my last night and I'm spending it in here feeling like death wouldn't be so bad…'

He looked down at the knife Yuuta had discarded on the floor. He saw his reflection. Blood covered his face. Cuts were found everywhere. It was like what he saw in the mirror yesterday. Ranulf's eyes widened when he saw the image change to him tied to a wooden post. He was burning, screaming, crying and he couldn't take his eyes off the sight.

"Tweet… Tweet…"

Startled, Ranulf looked up and around to find out where the sound was coming from. The noise came again. "A bird…?" He whispered. Just when he said it, the small bird came out of the shadows made by the candle that was still lit. Ranulf then recognized the bird. "Yune…!"

The bird landed in front of him a few inches away from the pond of blood. A blue fire surrounded the orange bird. Ranulf watched in awe as the fire raised up to form the shape of a little girl. Shortly after Yune's childish appearance showed within the cold flame. She opened her eyes and gazed up at Ranulf with a hurtful expression. Ranulf felt embarrassed by the way he was exposed while in a Goddess's sight.

"You have nothing to be ashamed of." Yune told him reading his mind. "Your appearance shows your courage by taking such humiliating and painful suffering."

Ranulf didn't respond so Yune decided to speak instead. "I told Ike where you were." Ranulf looked at Yune with hopeful eyes. "He's very worried about you. As everyone else is."

Ranulf lowered his head. "Ike…" A tear fell to the puddle of blood. "Yune… could I ask you of something…?" He asked. "I apologise for my selfishness… forgive me… but… please…"

"Anything." Yune answered with a sweet voice.

"Could… could I…" His sobs where stopping his voice. Tears flowed freely down his cheeks. "I… I want to talk to him."

Yune smiled sadly and nodded. "Of course."

She flew up to Ranulf's face and covered the cat's watery eyes. "Sleep…" Yune ordered gently. Ranulf bit his lip to stop his sobs, but then his expression relaxed and was fast asleep.

--s2--

Conversation interrupted the stillness of the outskirts of Siene. Plans were being repeated to Soren to show their understanding of their task. Times, locations, missions, everything. They were all split up into five different groups.

Group one had Rhys, Mist and Reyson. They were in charge of medical supplies at t he camp. The extra hawks and raven Laguz were told to stay with them and help.

Group two was with Ike, Tibarn, Soren and Naesala. They were the main group and were in charge of saving Ranulf. Later this group is to separate for further duties.

Group three, Ulki, Janaff, and Rolf. Since Shinon was on the wrong side of this war Rolf wanted to go get him and bring him back to the good side.

Group four had Leonardo, Edward and Nolan. Yuuta, Kinya and Zarack are most likely going to be watching the execution, so they were to go and take them as hostages.

Finally, group five had Sothe, Micaiah, Zihark and Skrimir. Someone needs to go over to the Laguz labour camps and navigate the best way to save the rest of the Laguz. Also they had to rescue Rafiel and Leanne and do their best to kill whomever was in charge of the dangerous dungeon.

It wasn't too late, but by the schedule that was made for tomorrow everyone was to turn in for the night. Ike was walking with Sothe, Soren and Zihark on the way to their tents. It was quiet. Not one wanted to speak and they planned for it to stay that way.

Ike then gasped and stopped walking. The other three also paused to look back at him. Ike was panting and sweat ran down the side of his face.

"Ike… are you okay?" Zihark asked. Ike covered his mouth as he started to feel sick and fell to his knees. Zihark and Sothe immediately went to Ike's side while Soren kneeled down to face Ike.

"Ike?" Soren asked. "Ike look at me." Before Ike could do what he was asked he closed his eyes and passed out. Sothe and Zihark caught him before he could hit the ground.

Zihark grunted by Ike's weight. "What do you think is wrong…?" He asked Soren.

The mage thought about it. He studied Ike's unconscious body before helping Sothe and Zihark to lift him up.

"…Ranulf…"

It was barely a whisper and they all had to strain to hear it, but Ike had told them what was going on. Yune must of put Ike to sleep so he could get in contact with Ranulf.

"Let's take him to his tent." Soren said. The other two agreed.

--s2--

"Ranulf…?" Ike murmured. He stared at the cat that was left in a cage; chained up and bloody. "Ranulf…!" tears formed in his eyes as he watched his love's broken form look up at him. "RANULF!!!"

He ran up to the cage and gripped at the bars. He was amazed that that he wasn't blow away like the first time. He crouched down and tired reaching out to Ranulf. "Ranulf…"

Ranulf smiled softly, tears running down his face. "Ike…" He wanted to move and take Ike's hand but he muscles wouldn't allow that, not with the pain they were in. "Ike, I need to tell you something." his smile faded.

Ike didn't like the sound of that. "What is it…?"

The cat was quiet for a moment. "I… I'm guessing that you heard about what's going to happen tomorrow morning."

Ike looked down and slowly nodded. Ranulf continued. "Well… I asked Yune to let me talk to you… One last time…"

The mercenary jolted his head back up with disbelief. "What…? No!" His grip on the bars tightened. "Ranulf, you can't give up! Not yet! We're here! We almost have you back…!" His voice got soft as he tried to hold back sobs.

"I know, Ike…" Ranulf told him. "I'm sorry, but I can't… It hurts… I want it to stop; to end." He coughed up some blood. Ike just watched, feeling useless. "Ike… I love you, never forget that…"

"I won't, but…" he slammed the shadowy floor with his fist. "But, I want you to stay with me! To tell me those words again and again!" He tired reaching for the cat again. "I won't let you die…! I love you too much to let you give up on your life!"

Ranulf looked away. He was hurting Ike and he couldn't stand to see the pain in Ike's eyes. "I…"

"Look at me, Ranulf." Ike said. Ranulf didn't move. "Please… look at me…" With slight hesitation Ranulf looked back over at him. Ike's eyes were pleading. "Ranulf… just hold on for a little while longer. I promise you… I will get you back alive."

"Ike…" Ranulf flinched from the pain. "… I'll…" One last tear fell from Ranulf's green eye. "…try…" He then burst into small pieces of shattering glass. Ike did the same a moment after.

--s2--

A new dawn surfaced. The mission has begun.

Leonardo and Edward were standing by on the west side of the execution stadium just two hallways away from Kinya's quarters. Leonardo looked at Edward to check if he was ready and the brunette smiled and nodded knowing what Leonardo was asking with no words. Leonardo then leaned on the wall and turned his head to gaze down the hall. On the other end was Nolan. The older man smiled and gave a thumbs up to say that everything was set.

Leonardo signalled Edward to go and the swordsman took the lead down the hall. Nolan came with his axe down the hall as well. Two guards were protecting the doors that lead to Kinya and their first task was to take them out. The three members of the Dawn Brigade hid around the corner of the small hall that lead to their destination.

It was Leonardo's turn. He grabbed his bow tightly and took out two arrows. With his teeth he ripped off a feather on one of the arrows so it would drift. This had to be quick so the guards didn't call for reinforcements. Leonardo took a deep breath and closed his pale blue eyes. He mouthed the words, "Three… two… one." He rolled out was fast as he could and took little time to aim his arrows at the man on left. He let go of the string and the two arrows struck their targets in the neck and the guards dropped to the red carpet flooring.

Edward and Nolan ran to the corpses and dragged them to the side and out of the way. Leonardo sighed; task one: complete.

--s2--

Ike sat on Tibarn's back as they flew above the execution stadium. Soren, who was on Naesala, was right behind them. They peered down at the arena below them and pinpointed their targets.

"There's nine…" Soren announced as he was quickly running through them again. "Nine fire sages. That's more than I predicted."

"I bet there will be one more coming out with Ranulf too." Tibarn landed on the side of the giant hole in the middle of the roof. Naesala did the same and the two of them reverted to their human form. "That makes ten altogether."

Soren hummed in thought as all four of them crouched low so they wouldn't be seen. "This could be a complication. If we had Leonardo with us then this would be no problem."

Naesala huffed. "Does it really matter?! Let's just kill them all."

"There is four of us and ten of them stupid!" Tibarn whispered harshly. "When we are attacking four the other six can be going after Ranulf!"

"Tch! Like they would go for the cat while they could trying to be catching the bird kings!"

"Fine, then nine of them would be getting us and poor Ranulf is still being burned to death by the one!"

The two continued to yell at each other. Soren and Ike sighed in annoyance; there was no getting these two to shut up.

Tibarn stood up in anger followed by Naesala. "You think you know everything!" Naesala stomped forward.

"I know more than you do!" Tibarn also advanced forward. Ike stood up before they could reach the other and pushed them away so there would be no fist fight.

"Get out of the way Ike!" Tibarn commanded. "This guy needs a lesson!"

"Bring it on!" Naesala shouted.

"STOP!" Soren got up. They all stared at him. "You guys fight like a married couple!" Tibarn and Naesala looked at one another before jumping back in disgust. Soren made a sound out of frustration. "Quit acting like children and focus on the situation at hand! I'll think up something before Ranulf comes out." Crossing their arms the Kings agreed. "Thank you." Soren then watched the movements of the fire sages to come up with a plan.

Ike studied as well. He concentrated on the wooden pole in the middle and the three sages around it. The sight bugged him. Soon Ranulf was going to be there and his life will either be saved or lost.

Soren noticed that Ike was worrying. 'We can't have him pondering like this…' He placed a hand on Ike's shoulder. Ike stared at him with a questionable look. "Relax, Ike. Don't start getting anxious."

The blue haired warrior took a deep breath and nodded. "I just hope nothing goes wrong."

"Everything will be fine." Soren reassured him.

The mage looked up at the bird kings. "I thought of a plan. Tibarn," The hawk paid full attention. "Ranulf is going to be tied there so I do the same as planned before and drop Ike there. I then want you to fly around to round up as many sages as you can." Tibarn nodded.

"Naesala, drop me near Ranulf as well and go for the sages that aren't being chased by Tibarn. Our appearance should cause a small amount of confusion and give a few seconds until they clue in on what to do. By then I want you two to take out as many of those sages as you can. I'll attack as well and Ike," He paused for a moment. "untie Ranulf and take him to Tibarn. Once you two are in the air Naesala and I will follow."

"Alight." Ike said in understanding.

"YEAH!!!"

The cheering startled the four. It has begun.

They all leaned over to see. The side doors where opening and just as expected Ranulf was brought out with another fire sage. Ike's breath hitched slightly. "Ranulf…"

--s2--

Ranulf's eyes were blinded by the bright light of the morning sun. He was forced outside and towards the center. His legs gave out countless amount of times and was practically being dragged. He looked up and saw all the fire sages and the wooden pole.

Ranulf's panted. "No…" He tugged weakly away from the sage that had a hold of his tied wrists. "I…" A sudden burst of energy went through him. Adrenaline helped to quicken his movements and strength so he could get out of the sages grip. "I will not die this way!!" He screamed.

He ran back for the doors that were closed by two sages and were know standing in his way. Ranulf tried to dodge them and run pass, but his body was still extremely weak from the blood loss and they caught him with no problem. He thrashed side to side kicking and yelling. "Let go of me!!" Tears ran down his face.

One of the sages threw his bare body over his shoulder and carried him to the middle of the arena. Ranulf's face flushed in embarrassment. He closed his eyes tightly as he was placed down and held back by three sages while another tied him up to the wooden pole.

'I'm going to… die…'

--s2--

Ike's heart stopped when Ranulf started screaming. His entire body was cut up and stained with dry blood. The sight horrified Ike to no end. He stood up only to be tugged back down by Soren.

"Not yet." Soren told him. "There are too many fire sages around him."

"But, he's--"

"No." Soren interrupted. "These people are all sadist and will want him to die slowly. If we attack now they can kill him with in a blink of an eye. We must wait for the fire to start burning."

Ike bit his lip. "That's going to hurt him though…"

"It's the only way we can save him." Soren pointed out sadly.

They watched as the waited silently. Ranulf's every move of discomfort and pain make Ike dig his nails into his palms further. The cat cried out in agony and Ike jumped. He was just about ready to leap off the roof to go save him, but he knew that was a bad idea.

Tibarn and Naesala got ready and transformed. Ike gasped for air to calm himself. They then saw a orange light. Ranulf screamed.

"GO!" Soren yelled.

Tibarn and Naesala flapped their wings as Ike and Soren got up. The birds grabbed the Beorc and the Branded with their talons and swooped down into action. They got to the ground within three seconds and the Laguz kings dropped Ike and Soren before they started to hunt down the fire sages.

"Boo's" where heard from every direction. The crowd began to throw things like small blades. Fortunately, their aim was completely off and they missed every time.

Ranulf's screams were dulling and Ike hurried to his side. Soren chanted from his wind tome and blew out the fire so Ike could get to the cat. Afterwards he took out a thunder tome and attacked the sages.

Ike ripped off the burned rope and allowed Ranulf to fall lifelessly on him. He knelt down and took off his cape and wrapped Ranulf up in it to cover him. Picking him up bridal style he called for Tibarn as he ran up to the huge green hawk who has already killed five sages. Ike mounted Tibarn with Ranulf still firmly in his arms. Soren noticed that Ike was ready to leave and found Naesala. The four then started to fly off to make their escape.

--s2--

The sound of the angered crowd was the sign for Nolan to break down the door. Leonardo and Edward rushed through the broken pieces of wood and take out their weapons. There was a small yelp in surprise from the sound of the crash. Two Laguz cats turned around shocked, but they stayed down on the worn out pillows like they were ordered to sit on.

Leonardo went to the right and pulled his bow string tightly with an aimed arrow. He pointed it a purple haired man. Edward ran to the left and grabbed who he knew was Zarack's hair. He placed his sword roughly against the governor's neck.

Nolan took the female Laguz's hand and helped her to her feet and looked at the male Laguz in a way that said to come over. Once the two Laguz were safely away from the scene Leonardo tugged on the purple haired man's shirt and hoisted him up to make him stand.

"Kinya, we came here to take you hostage." He said sternly. "I suggest that you come with us quietly if you want any chance of living."

The man chuckled. Leonardo was confused. Before the blond archer knew it the man had spun around and caught his bow in his right hand disallowing him to attack. "I'm afraid you have the wrong guy. Name's Yuuta."

"Where--" Yuuta grabbed Leonardo by the throat and squeezed hard.

"Leonardo!" Edward called in alarm getting. Nolan took his axe and came up behind Yuuta. In one swift move he pounded the Beorc on the head with the end of the handle. Yuuta flinched in pain as he released Leonardo. He then blacked out on the ground.

Leonardo knelt to the floor with a hand on his neck coughing and panting. Nolan crouched down to check on him. Edward, seeing that Leonardo was alright, demanded for Zarack to get up. Zarack obeyed without a word. This was his ticket out. As a prisoner, but he had the ability to step out of the evil kingdom.

The two Laguz, that Nolan found out whose names were Takashi and Yuki, backed up while their three rescuers came walked passed them. Nolan had Yuuta over his shoulder and Zarack was in front of Leonardo who had an arrowed aimed to threaten him if he were to make a break for it. Edward lead the way down the hallways back to the entrance of the castle.

--s2--

Ike tried to shake Ranulf awake. He said his name over and over again in hopes that the cat would open his bicoloured eyes. Tears rolled down his cheeks as he watched for any sort of movement. It was quite, the only thing that was heard was Ike's strangled words and barely noticeable sobs.

"Ranulf… Wake… up!" Ike cried. "Don't die on me. You can't die! Don't Leave me!!" He bent his head down and cried on Ranulf's chest which was covered by Ike's red cape.

Soren observed Ike's actions and felt deeply saddened by his state. Never has he seen Ike look so upset. He wanted to say something to help maybe comfort the broken mercenary. He didn't though, he found it best to give Ike room right now.

The mage looked down to the ground as they passed over the gate that lead inside the kingdom. There he saw Nolan and his group with the hostages. He tugged lightly on one of Naesala's feathers. "They're down there." He pointed out. He and the raven king were to go pick up their three prisoners before they headed back to camp.

Naesala nodded and swooped downwards. Tibarn heard Soren tell him to take care of Ike and Ranulf on the way back. Tibarn looked back at the blue haired man still curled up to Ranulf. 'I better hurry.'

--s2--

Edward came to a halt when he caught sight of the giant raven coming in for a landing. A gust of wind created by Naesala's great wings caused Edwards crimson jacket flutter. Soren jumped off and walked over to Edward.

"Where is the third?" Soren asked.

Edward crossed his arms. "He's still in there I believe. He never came to the execution."

"We still have these two." Nolan said as he threw Yuuta on Naesala's back. Zarack got on voluntarily. "We'll go back and search for him. You two take these guys back to camp."

Soren sighed softly. "Alright."

He looked to the back where Yuki and Takashi stood. "Slaves of these two I presume." They bobbed their head slowly to say that they were. He hummed. "Naesala, would you be able to carry all five of us?"

"Five?!" Naesala exclaimed.

"Yes." Soren said calmly.

Naesala groaned in annoyance. He then huffed. "Yea, I can do that. It may be slow ride though."

"No problem." Soren got up on the raven's back. Zarack was in the front and Yuuta was behind him on his stomach being held on to by Soren, who was behind him, so he wouldn't fall off. Yuki was after Soren with Takashi behind her. "If you don't find him by mid-day then come back." The three Dawn Brigade units gave a short nod before turning around to head back inside.

"Oh!" Leonardo stopped for a moment. "Watch out if that one wakes up. He can be quite aggressive." After that he left.

Naesala took off with a little bit of trouble. When he finally got up in the sky everything seemed to smoothen out. That was until arrows started to shoot by. "Shit!" Naesala swore as he did his best to try to avoid them. One, unfortunately, stabbed Naesala's left wing. "AH!" He tilted to the left giving an unexpected jolt that made his passengers slide.

Takashi gasped he felt an arrow cut his side. He clasped a hand onto the wound and swore under his breath. He held his other hand on Yuki's right arm. "You okay, Yuki?"

Yuki didn't answer. Takashi called her name again thinking she didn't hear him. Another arrow flew by making Takashi jerk away from it. He then felt something rub against his side. Before he could look down though, Yuki began to fall.

"YUKI!" Takashi jumped off Naesala to catch Yuki's ankle.

Soren saw Takashi just in time to grab on to his hand without the need to get off. "What are you two doing?!"

"Yuki's hurt!" Takashi yelled. "I won't let her fall!"

The chain of people hanging off Naesala's left side wasn't helping the situation. The arrows where still flying about. Takashi shouted for Yuki to hang on. The female cat then looked up at him with a smile.

"Let go…" She said.

Takashi's golden eyes opened widely at her words. "What?! NO! I can't let you fall!"

"It's okay, Takashi." For once Yuki was speaking in a confident way. She was sure of herself. "Let me go."

The green haired cat shook his head furiously. "I… can't…" Tears blurred his vision. Just then, a arrow dashed by and sliced Takashi's wrist making his accidentally let go.

Yuki dropped with her smile still on her face. Takashi gasped as he watched. His tears fell just as he screamed. "YUKI!!!!!!"

"Naesala! Catch him!" Soren called. Soren released Takashi and Naesala painfully swayed to catch the cat within his talons. Takashi cried for Yuki again as they flew away out of the arrows' range and back towards the their camp.

--s2--

Rolf sighed as he walked around yet another corner of the kingdom. "This is impossible…!" he whined. "Shinon and Gatrie are no where to be found in this huge castle!"

Janaff and Ulki continued down the hall as Rolf stopped. Janaff looked back at him. "He has to be around here somewhere. Soren said that his room is around this area." He turned to face the young archer. "Come on, we'll find him soon."

"I'm tired on searching." Rolf said simply. "He left the Grail Mercenaries before and now he goes and betrays us again! What's the point?"

"Have you lost faith in your master?"

They all looked behind Rolf to found out who's voice that was. Shinon was walking down the hall with his usual bored expression. Gatrie followed without his excess armour on.

"How did you not hear them, Ulki?" Janaff asked the taller hawk.

Ulki was surprised at this. "I don't know."

"Humph…" Shinon cracked a knuckle. "Looks like your losing your hearing. We've been trailing along behind you for a while now."

"Why are you here Shinon?" Rolf got right into his conversation he was thinking through ever since they set foot in the Begnion borders.

Shinon shrugged. "Extra cash." he answered.

"You're hurting the Laguz though!"

"So?"

Rolf gritted his teeth. Tears welled up in his eyes at Shinon's heartless words. "Shinon… Come back with us."

The red haired archer laughed softly. "With Ike? That sore excuse for a commander? No way in hell."

Gatrie lowered his head in thought. He then passed by Shinon and went to stand beside Rolf. "We should go with them Shinon. There is no reason for us to be working with Begnion."

Shinon rolled his eyes. "What's the big deal?"

"You're killing Laguz!" Rolf yelled.

"Again, so?"

Rolf cried out in frustration and pulled out his steel bow and placed a arrow before aiming it at his teacher. He released the string and with was sent flying towards Shinon who slightly tiled his head to the right and allowed the arrow to go by. As it did though, it lightly scratched his cheek.

Shinon's green eyes widened from the small sting it left behind. He was shocked that his young student was able to cut him. He lifted his hand to his cheek and touched the blood that dripped down from it. He then smiled. "You've been training I see." he licked the blood off his fingers. Rolf was panting because of his little outburst.

"I'm going to leave now. There's no purpose for me to waste my time here. Gatrie if you going with them, then go. I'll see you guys later maybe." He spun on his heals and walked away as if nothing had ever happened.

--s2--

Meanwhile, Sothe, Zihark, Micaiah, and Skrimir were at the gates of the Laguz concentration camps. The looked in wondering how they where going to get through without being seen. The walls were high so climbing would take a while if it was even possible. The gate was chained up with two locks so Sothe thought of picking the locks.

He took out two pins from his pocket and went over to the locks. "This shouldn't take long." He announced. He grabbed the first lock and put the pins in his other hand. He was about to stick the pins in when a lightning spell shocked him. Sothe gasped as he was flown backwards landing hard on the ground on his back.

"Sothe!" Micaiah called. She ran up to him and helped him sit up.

"Wh…What was th--that?" Sothe stuttered from the from the jolt of the electricity.

Zihark looked at it. "Maybe it's charmed with a thunder spell." He guessed.

"There's such thing?" Skrimir asked.

The swordsman shrugged. "It seems like it."

"Wh-whatever." Sothe got up to his feet again. Micaiah got up to and held him to make sure he was okay to stand. "We need a way inside, n--now."

Skrimir leaned on the wall and huffed. "And how are we going to do that?"

They all thought about it. It was then when the wall Skrimir was leaning on caved in and three stones crumbled softly on the grass on the other side. Skrimir fell wondering what had happened when he noticed the gap in the wall. "Hey, look at this."

The others came to see and smiled. "That's how." Sothe said and he crawled through on his hands and knees. Micaiah was next, then Zihark.

The loin king stared at the hole and shook his head. "There is no way I'm going to fit through that…" He knelt down to look at the other side.

Sothe did that same to communicate. "Are you able to move another stone?"

"I can try." Skrimir ran his hands on the wall and checked all the cracks between each stone. He soon found one that was loose and ripped it off the wall making a bigger gap. "There." He smirked happily to himself. He crawled through and now all four of them where ready to enter the dungeon.

--s2--

Tibarn and Ike made it back to camp. The sun was now fully up in the bright blue sky; but the weather was nothing that could lighten up the day. Ike was running towards the medical tent with Ranulf. He prayed it wasn't to late. Ranulf's breathing was shallow; so shallow that Ike was beginning to believe there was nothing there. He had to hurry.

He rammed into the tent's entrance and called for Rhys. The carrot top bishop got up from his seat by a cot and told Ike to lay Ranulf down. Ike did was he was ordered to quickly and Rhys grabbed his staffs. Rhys looked over at Mist.

"Mist, I need you bring me some warm water and a lot of cloths." The little girl nodded and ran off to get what Rhys asked for.

Ike panted in exhaustion. He stared at Ranulf's blood stained face with a concerned expression. "Rhys…" He puffed out. "Is he…"

"I think it would be best for you to leave for now, Ike." Rhys told him. "You've been worrying yourself sick over Ranulf. You need to go lay down, away from here. I'll send someone to tell you everything you are to know about."

"What?!" Ike asked loudly. "No, I-- I want to stay with him!"

Tibarn walked in to see how Ranulf was doing. "Hey, what's happening?"

Rhys looked back at Tibarn before returning to his work. "Tibarn, could to take Ike to his tent?" He questioned.

"Wait!" Ike exclaimed. "I want stay here and I'm going to stay here!"

"I see where this is going." Tibarn lifted Ike up over his shoulder and headed out.

Ike kicked and punched Tibarn like a small child. "AH! Put me down! Ranulf!" Tibarn had left the tent, but still Ike yelled. Tears ran down his face again. "Ranulf! I have to stay with him! I have to! Tibarn, please! Put me down…"

The hawk king made it to Ike's tent and entered it. He then placed on the bed and knelt down on one knee. "What has gotten into you, Ike?" He asked softly. "Never had I seen you cry and now you're a complete mess."

Ike was silent. He whipped his tears away only for them to replaced with new fresh ones. "I…" He whispered something Tibarn couldn't understand.

"What?" The king said with a soft voice.

"I… can't tell you…" Ike repeated.

Tibarn scratched the back of his neck. He was never good when it came to comforting depressed people. "Why can't you tell me?"

"Because…" Ike murmured. "It's… forbidden."

"What is?" Tibarn wasn't going to let this go. He pushed Ike into telling him the truth.

Ike was quite for a while. Tibarn assumed that he was fighting with himself whether or not to tell him. Finally Ike whispered something. "I love him…"

It was faint, but Tibarn had heard it. "That's it? That's the big secret?"

The blue haired man glanced up at him. "What…?"

Tibarn chuckled. "Why is that so bad? There is nothing wrong with it." Ike was dumbfounded for a moment, bet he then smiled a little at Tibarn's response.

That smile soon faded though. Tears came back. Ike held his head in his hands and let out a heavy, heartbreaking sob. Tibarn bit his lip unsure of what to do. He gulped as he awkwardly wrapped his arms around the younger man. Ike immediately clung on to Tibarn's grass green jacket and cried freely. Every time Ike softly sobbed there was a strong tug inside Tibarn's chest. He hated seeing the bravest man he ever met so broken up. In the beginning this very scene in front of him wasn't possible; now that it was happening, Tibarn was flown completely off guard.

Ike's tears subsided and pushed himself backwards on the bed away from Tibarn. He was looking away from the hawk king, embarrassed. He mumbled a quite thanks before an uncomfortable silence took over.

Tibarn destroyed the tension by resting a hand on Ike's shoulder. When he got the warrior's attention he gave him one of his reassuring smiles. "He's going to be alright, Ike."

Ike stared at him with red eyes. He didn't know what to think at the moment. Emotions were scrambled everywhere in his heart. He deeply wanted to believe in Tibarn's words, but then the vision of Ranulf's blood covered face and body appeared in his mind's eye which made him think otherwise. He closed his eyes tightly and got rid of the image. He then looked at Tibarn again and gave a hesitant smile. It then went into his usual frown.

"There's the general Ike I know." Tibarn laughed. "Now, I got to go and get the herons. You stay here like you were told. I know you're worried, but by being over by Ranulf you'll get in the way. Understand?"

Ike nodded sadly. "I understand."

"Good." Tibarn got up to his feet again and went to leave. "And hey," Ike turned his head to face him. "Don't go stressing yourself out too much. The last thing we need is you falling ill." He then stepped outside out of Ike's view.

--s2--

Skrimir glared at the floor below him. He hated this plan. He glanced over at Zihark, who had thought of the plan. He was dressed as Begnion soldier as well as Sothe. Micaiah was wearing a fire mages outfit. As for him, he wore his regular clothes, but was chained up like a prisoner. He despised the idea.

They made the way with no problems. There were constantly stared at. Some gave Sothe, Micaiah, and Zihark a happy face while Skrimir was given evil looks of pure hatred. Every look that Skrimir saw made the loin king want to brake loose of the chains and rip their faces off.

They, somewhat, peacefully made it to one of the top towers where they were told where the head commander was. He opened the doors calmly and walked inside. The commander looked up from his spot of the chair he sitting on and smiled.

"What do we have here?" He asked darkly. His face was hidden under his helmet that he was wearing for some weird reason. "The loin king?"

"Yes." Sothe said. "We were planning to put him with the herons."

"Unfortunately," Zihark stepped forward. "we were never told where the herons where being kept."

"It was announced." the commanded didn't look pleased.

"Our apologies, commander." Zihark bowed giving Sothe and Micaiah the sign to bow down as well. "We were out."

The commander stood and made his way over to Zihark. He grabbed the bluenette by the throat and made him look at him in his brown eyes. "Where were you that was more important than my announcement?"

"We… uh…" Zihark couldn't think of something. The hand around his neck tightened and he felt himself starting to black out.

Micaiah moved towards the commander. "We where taking some of the S-Sub-humans to the kingdom." She didn't know if that excuse would work, but it was worth the shot.

"Hm…" the commander released Zihark who backed away while coughing lightly and rubbing his neck. "I see… Well then." He walked back to his chair. "They are in the tower next to us."

Sothe marched over to the middle of the room and bowed again. "Thank you, commander." He then grabbed one of his throwing knives and pitched it. The commander's eyes grew wide and was about to said the word traitor before the knife pierced through his neck. "We'll be on our way then." Sothe slightly mocked as he turned and headed out with the others.

Closing the door behind him Sothe gazed at the team he was with. "I'll stay here and guard the door so we won't have any commotion."

"Alright." Zihark said. "We'll head up the other tower and get the herons."

"By that time Tibarn should be here to pick them up." Micaiah stated.

They all nodded at their plan that was made the last night. Hopefully everything that was planned out will go right without any problems.

--s2--

Naesala made it to the camp a while after Tibarn had left. He landed after letting go of Takashi and everyone got off. Soren carried Yuuta with slight difficulty. Two raven came by and took Yuuta from his arms, the other restrained Zarack as they took them away.

Naesala reverted with his body sprawled out on the ground. His shoulder still had an arrow sticking out of it. Blood spilled like a dropped bucket of crimson paint. Another three of ravens rushed to pick him and Takashi up so they could get them to the medical tent.

Soren watched as they transported the cat and raven king away. He then looked around the camp site in hopes to fine Ike. He had a feeling that he was in the medical tent, but just to make sure he went to check to see if he was in his tent. He walked a little ways till he found it and went inside to see Ike curled up on his bed. Getting a closer look he saw that Ike had been crying again. Now, however, he was just laying there with a blank expression.

The wind mage gripped his white cloak and sat down on the stool that was beside the bed. "Ike…?" He lightly whispered. The man looked at him to show he was listening. "Are you okay…?"

Ike was silent for a moment. Soon enough he nodded his head and gave a soft, "yeah" in response. Soren didn't believe it.

"Your left eye is twitching." Soren pointed out.

The warrior covered his eye and sighed. "I have to get control of that."

Soren chuckled a little. "Then it would be harder to tell when something is wrong. Not impossible, just harder."

"Am I really that easy to read?"

"For me it is."

"Hm…"

"So tell me what's on your mind." Soren sat up tall on the stool and waited for Ike to answer.

"I…" Ike stopped for a few seconds. "It's… Ranulf."

There was a pause. Soren thought he could get this conversation going faster if he spoke. "You love him."

Ike sat up on the bed and stared at Soren with a surprised expression. "How… how…?"

"I've been putting things together for a while now." Soren explained. "You two going off on you own at night and coming back just before sunrise. The way you two seemed to grow closer during our trip. Now, the way your so concerned about Ranulf; how broken you are without him." Ike bit his lip. "I figured it all out after we flew over the caves."

"Why didn't you say something then?" Ike questioned.

"Because," Soren shrugged. "I wanted you to tell me first. You two were keeping it a secret so I kept my thoughts to myself until you two were ready to tell me."

Ike lowered his head. "Thank you…"

"It was the least I could do." Soren told him.

There was a short silence. Soren then spoke up again. "Ike," The blue haired man blinked. "I know that you're worried. Just don't stress yourself."

"That's exactly what Tibarn said." Ike chuckled softly. "I'll try not to."

Just then Mist came running in. "Ike!" she called. Ike jumped to his feet and asked what was wrong. His heart leaped to his throat and he was afraid of the answer. Mist had tears streaming down her face as he grabbed Ike's hand. "Ranulf… he's…"

--s2--

YES! FINALLY! ITS ABOUT TIME I FINISHED THIS CHAPTER! IM SO HAPPY!!!!!! REVIEW! NOW! OR ELSE SHINON WILL SHOOT YOU WITH HIS AWESOME ARCHER SKILLS!Also for my thank yous! I must thank Kai the Tiger Princess for the line "You two fight like a married couple!" for Tibarn and Naesala! Thank you! And to Rosieroozoo, Bleachego (he doesn't have a fan fiction account but here we shall call him that) , cutix101, and my other friend (that most likely won't want me to say her name and I don't have a user name for her) for their encouragement towards this evil and FREAKEN LONG CHAPTER THAT YOU READERS MUST APPRECIATE!