Chapter 23

Enbarr Escape

N took in a deep breath as he looked over the documents he had. He stood in front of the door that led to Rhea's audience chamber. He had set up a meeting to discuss his idea for a field trip. He wanted the students to have an experience with creatures out in the wild. While the forests that surrounded the monastery were good for that, he wanted a change in scenery. His time wandering with the mercenary band made him see all kinds of locales, and meet all kinds of creatures. Certain environments attracted certain kinds of creatures, so he wanted the students to see that.

Once he made sure all his documents were in order he opened the door to the audience chamber. He walked past several guards before turning to his left toward Rhea's office. He knocked on the door and waited for a response. He heard Rhea's muffled voice allowing him to enter. He opened the door and saw Rhea sitting at her desk. She looked up and smiled as N walked in. At her side was Seteth with the same expression he always wore.

N set his prepared documents on Rhea's desk and took a few steps back. Rhea looked at the pages with the same smile as before. When she finished reading them, she would hand the page to Seteth, who looked at it with more scrutiny.

N stood there nervously. He felt like this was something they would approve without much issue, but there was always a chance. Plus there was Seteth to contend with. N had never met a man that was such a stickler for the rules. It felt like Seteth was always judging whatever action he took. N had a great relationship with Flayn, the chances they got to speak, but it was the complete opposite with Seteth. At times it felt like he tolerated both his and Byleth's presence.

When the two finish going over the documents, Seteth kept them in his hands. Rhea simply laced her fingers together and kept her gaze firmly on N.

"So, this field trip you're proposing has educational benefits?" The way Seteth said field trip almost felt accusatory.

N nodded. "Well, yeah. It's all laid out in the documents."

"Yes, but does it have to be at a beach? Can't the forests around the monastery suffice?"

"As it's says in the document, it's for a change of pace," N said.

"But a beach implies non-educational activities."

N fought the urge to roll his eyes. Seteth's worries were all addressed within his documents. "I don't want the students to feel like they're only going to do an assignment. I want them to have some fun with it."

"I agree with him, Seteth," Rhea said turning to her aid.

"But Lady Rhea?!"

"It does say he wants you to be part of the chaperons," Rhea added, gesturing to the papers Seteth was holding.

"I'm aware of that, but this seems far too much. Somewhere closer would more than suffice for the lessons N has planned."

"I think you just don't want to go to the beach, Seteth," Rhea said playfully.

Seteth sputtered a response, as N tried his best to hold back a chuckle. It seemed to not go unnoticed, as Seteth sent him glare that made him stop.

"I understand your worries, but it's not going to be there," Rhea said.

The comment caught N's attention. He figured Seteth likely had some personal reason for not agreeing with his choice. Though he had no idea what it could possibly be.

N stood in silence as the two spoke in hushed tones. He had a feeling they were discussing whether to approve his field trip or not. He had put in advance notice that he wanted to do the excursion and already told them the dates for it, but he had yet to finalize the details of what he had planned.

When he had presented the idea to Rhea, she seemed all for it. She agreed with needing a change in scenery and even gave some suggestions herself; including the forest around the monastery. While it was not a bad idea, N wanted a place that held more biodiversity. He felt that coast was the best option, as all kinds of creatures gathered there. Plus, it would also make the whole excursion more relaxed.

When the two finished deliberating, Seteth cleared his throat and turned to N. N met the man's gaze and hoped for a positive outcome.

"We've discussed the matter and proposition has been approved."

"Yes!"

Seteth was not pleased to have been cut off, but Rhea waved him off with slight chuckle.

"The date for next weekend has been approved as well. I'll make sure everything is prepared for the departure," Seteth said.

"I appreciate it."

"Very well, I'll make sure the other teachers are briefed on the matter."

N nodded in response and stepped to the side to allow Seteth to leave.

"Flayn's welcome to join us," N said.

"She will not," Seteth replied quickly as he exited the room.

N let out a dejected sigh and slumped a bit against the wall. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Rhea walking towards him.

"I'm sure she'll join as well. Her and Seteth are inseparable," Rhea said.

"I get being overprotective, but let the girl live a little," N replied. He remembered his own time being locked in a mansion. While he did have his sisters, once that was stripped away life became unbearable. Luckily, Flyan had good people around her which hopefully made her feel less isolated.

"I forgot to ask if he was okay with the Ashen Absols joining as well."

"You have been including them in a lot of things lately," Rhea replied with a hint of surprise.

N nodded. "They pop into Byleth's class every now and again. As well as mine, so the other students have had a chance to get to know them."

"Always trying to make everyone feel included," Rhea said.

"Things are more fun that way."

Rhea walked toward the door and gestured for N to follow. He separated from the wall and took longer steps to catch up to the archbishop.

"Tell me, why not do this during the summer months? The cold is fast approaching," Rhea asked.

"I wanted to, but with everything that was happening it was difficult to plan it."

Rhea nodded in response. "I understand. Hopefully everything goes smoothly."

"Why don't you join us as well? I'm sure you could use the change of pace too," N suggested.

Rhea chuckled loudly, causing her to cover her mouth with her hand. "I appreciate the thought, but then a lot more people would have to accompany us. I'm sure having too many chaperons would hamper the experience for the students."

"Of course."

The continued talking as the descended the steps that led toward the Academy. Behind them, two knights trailed them and N quickly realized what she meant by added chaperons. Having the archbishop join them would mean a lot more knights would have to join them as a protection detail.

As they walked, the two passed by Shamir who approached them to deliver a report to Rhea. When the report concluded, the dark haired woman turned to N.

"Heard you're planning a field trip."

N chuckled. "Word travels fast."

Shamir rolled her eyes and lightly punched N's shoulder. "I won't be on assignment, so I can be a chaperon."

N gave her a sly smile. "Isn't that beneath you?"

"Okay wise guy."

The two laughed, as Rhea watched with an amused smile. She was happy the two had gotten closer, despite their initial meeting.

"Thanks for coming along, I mean it," N said.

"No problem. Been awhile since I just relaxed. I'll take my leave now." Shamir gave a short bow to Rhea and called for Dartrix. The white feathered owl descended form the branch it was perched on and landed softly on Shamir's shoulder.

"I was surprised to see Shamir and Jeritza on your chaperon list. Especially Jeritza."

N shrugged. "I still need to make sure that the students have an assignment to complete. Though Jeritza declined to come, saying he had something to do those days."

"I see. The more academy chaperons the more focused the students will be," Rhea surmised.

"Essentially. Which is why I wanted Seteth to join us. If anyone can get them to stay on task it's him," N said adding a small laugh at the end.

Before they could continue talking, the two heard a high pitched whine. N recognized the sound and looked up. He saw a Togekiss circling above, which meant Cynthia had a message for him. He found it odd, as she had sent him an update not too long ago. He waved at the winged creature and Togekiss began to descend.

The winged creature landed on a tree and N walked over to it. Togekiss dropped a letter onto the ground and N knelt down to pick it up. It had his name written on the front, but it looked hastily written even if it was just a singular letter.

"Do you know this Togekiss?" Rhea asked.

"Yeah, she belongs to a friend. I had her look into something for me." N turned to the Togekiss and gave a thankful nod. "I'll make sure to write a response as quick as I can."

Togekiss responded with another whine, which caught N by surprise. Togekiss appeared to be panicked. He could barely understand what she was saying. He looked back to the letter and worry started to grow within him.

"Is everything all right?" Rhea asked.

"I'm not sure."

"You do know you can ask for my assistance."

"I know, and I'll come to you soon. Just for right now, I need to figure this out on my own," N said. He turned to the archbishop and gave a quick bow. He quickly jogged toward his room, leaving Rhea alone.

Rhea turned toward the Togekiss, who had not left her perch. She had a feeling that whatever N was going to learn, it had to do with Ghetsis.

—-

When N opened the door to his room, Zorua was startled by the sudden noise. The black furred fox watched curiously as his partner walked toward the desk and set down a letter.

In one quick motion N took out the papers. His first impression was that they were written with haste. Cynthia's normally neat handwriting was almost impossible to read now. Whatever she had to say to him was likely done to get all the information down.

By the looks of it as well, what she had written down was not her usual research notes. N took in a deep breath and began to read. His eyes went wide at the first line: Enbarr is no longer safe.

He set down the papers and turned to the ceiling. Zorua let out a concerned yip, which shifted his attention. He sighed and reached toward the small fox. N pet him on the underside of his neck which made the fox happy. As N retracted his hand, Zorua jumped off the bed and onto his lap. N smiled. He could always count on his partner to help him out.

He took in a breath and as he reach for the letter he let it out. He figured that Cynthia would explain everything.

—-

Several weeks ago…

"They went this way!"

Cynthia looked back to see a small team of guards running right behind them. They were still a distance away, but if she or Sycamore slowed down they would be caught. Garchomp ran across the rooves above them occasionally firing off an attack when their pursuers got too close. Cynthia greatly appreciated her partner had her back.

The two turned the corner and jumped over the homeless people that blocked their path and knocked over creates for more obstructions. While she knew that would not be much of an obstacle, it still gave them a second to get a bit farther.

They exited the alley and it led into an open area. A small crowd of people was gathered and turned to the new arrivals. Behind them, they could hear the guards calling out. The two broke into a run again and Garchomp descended from the rooves. Cynthia did not need to give Garchomp a direction. The large reptile raised her claws into the air and slammed them down. Glowing blue rocks emerged from the ground and closed off the alleyway. Around them, civilians ran away from the three.

They managed to find another alleyway and slipped into it. Once they were deep enough into it, the three stopped for a moment to catch their breaths. They had been dodging Adrestian knights for close to two days. They barely had a moment to rest. If it were for the fact that they were being chased, Cynthia could commend them on their focus.

Next to her, Sycamore collapsed to the ground. He was breathing much more heavily than her. Cynthia felt sorry for Sycamore. She was used to long periods of little rest, but Sycamore was still used to being his study. She knew he did fieldwork, but none as intense as she was used to.

"Don't get too comfortable. We need to keep moving soon," Cynthia said.

"I know that," Sycamore said in between pants, "but where are we going to go? They have the whole city looking for us. We'll never make it out."

Cynthia had to agree with him. There was no safe place in the city. She did not know anyone who would hide them from the knights chasing them. She sat next to Sycamore to at least stay close and calm his nerves, but he was still overwhelmed.

They still had not talked about Rowan's death. It had all happened so fast that there was no time to mourn their mentor. She turned to Garchomp, who kept her head moving making sure no one could catch them. She appreciated Gachomp's dedication. She turned back to Sycamore, who had stopped panting, but had buried his face in his legs.

"I'm sorry I couldn't save him," Cynthia said.

"It's not your fault," Sycamore said as he turned to her, "I should've expected Lysandre would do something like that."

"You don't have to put on a brave face. He was you mentor."

"He was also yours."

Cynthia could see the look in his eyes. He was still reeling from everything that had happened. She put one arm across his shoulders and held him close. Sycamore was surprised by the action. It felt he was transported back to when they were kids. He could not stop himself from the tears that he had been holding back form falling. When Cynthia felt the tears, he held him closer. It was the least she could for him.

As night fell on the city, Cynthia was startled as Garchomp nudged her. She quickly stood and went to grab her sword, but as her eyes adjusted she let her guard down. She turned to Garchomp and sighed.

"Thanks for the scare, big girl."

Garchomp gave a short grunt in response.

Sycamore awoke quickly after. He had been startled by Cynthia suddenly moving. Cynthia moved to his side and put a hand on his shoulder.

"Night's fallen. It might be easier to move around, maybe even escape."

Sycamore nodded in response. As he stood up, he patted himself down. Cynthia let out a small chuckle as she watched her friend. He still had the quirk of trying to remove any dust that accumulated on him.

Once they made sure the coast was clear, the alleyway led to another open area. Several torches along the road were lit, with another in front of a building lit. Cynthia figured it must've been a tavern or the like. She turned to Sycamore who looked undecided.

"I think that's a tavern, but I don't if we should risk it," Cynthia said.

"We need to eat something," Sycamore said as his stomach rumbled. He shyly covered his stomach as Cynthia laughed.

"Someone's used to having three meals a day."

"Not all of us are used to scavenging," Sycamore replied.

Cynthia rolled her eyes as she walked over to Garchomp. "We're going to go there." Cynthia pointed at the building with the lit torch. Garchomp followed her finger. "Go around the back and wait for us." Garchomp nodded in understanding. "Good. Wait for us to go."

Cynthia gestured for Sycamore to follow her, and he obliged. The two hurried across the open area, keeping an eye out for anyone. As they neared the building, Cynthia could hear several different voices. Among them one that called for a refill.

"Keep your head down."

"You're the one who always stands out," Sycamore replied adding a sly smile.

Cynthia lightly punched his arm in response. She put a hand on the door handle and lightly pulled on it. As the two entered a few eyes turned to see who they were, but quickly returned back to their drinks.

The tavern was old. The ceiling hung low, which made Cynthia grateful Garchomp did not follow. However, the ceiling was not low enough for a burly looking man and his Conkeldurr. The tavern was populated by mostly older men, with a few younger ones huddled in one corner. Two barmaids walked around scooping up plates and empty cups. An older man with white hair and beard stood behind the counter cleaning cups and handing out drinks. A Swoobat, likely his, hung upside down on the light fixture above him. Off to the side was a set of stairs that led up. Cynthia hoped the place had beds to spent the night as well.

A barmaid with dark blonde hair and grey colored eyes made eye contact with the two and walked over to them. "Sit wherever you like."

Cynthia nodded and walked over to the counter, with Sycamore following behind her. She sat on one of the stools with Sycamore sitting right next to her. The older man set down two cups. Sycamore grabbed it with little self control and inhaled whatever liquid was in it. The old man chuckled and grabbed the cup, refilling it.

"Hungry?" the old man asked as he set down Sycamore's cup.

"Famished," Sycamore replied.

The old man chuckled and called out to one of the barmaids. "Rosa! Mind cooking something up for them?"

"On it, Boss!"

Cynthia turned her head slightly to see a young woman, likely in her late teens, walk towards the kitchen. She had a bit of pep in her step despite it being so late. She had brown hair with the sides curled up into buns that ended with twin tails. She wore a simple white blouse with yellow skirt that reached to the middle of her thighs. Black leggings covered her legs and had simple brown shoes.

As Rosa disappeared into the kitchen, Cynthia took a moment to gauge her surroundings. She could see the group of young men without having to move her head too much. They did not seem like anyone special. They talked amongst themselves and occasionally glanced in her direction. There was another man she could see without moving too much, but he was fast asleep. A half drank cup of ale rested in his hands.

There were others behind her, but the one that worried her was the man with the Conkeldurr. When they entered, she saw the two small axes the man carried. If she had to guess, the man was likely a mercenary. She hoped he had not made them out yet, but kept one hand on her sword just in case.

"I wouldn't do that."

Cynthia looked up from her cup to see the old man was standing in front of her. She set down the cup, but kept her hand on her sword.

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Simple, keep your guard up and you'll get caught," the old man advised.

Cynthia was about to draw her blade, but something stopped her. She saw the old man pointing up and followed his point. She saw that his Swoobat's eyes were glowing and its gaze was firmly on Cynthia's hand. Giving in, she let go of her sword's handle and felt Swoobat's pressure stop as well.

"You're not the first to enter here keeping an eye on their surroundings," the old man said.

Cynthia was surprised the man was keeping his voice low. She wondered if her had a reason for it, or if he was simply being considerate.

"So, if I had to gander," the old man said as he stroked his beard, "you two are some kind of runaways. My guess is the young man here is a noble and you two are running away from something."

"You're half right," Cynthia said as she took a drink from her cup. Her eyebrows going up slightly surprised that it was not ale.

"Well, how about you explain it me then, Professor," the old man said as he shifted his gaze toward Sycamore.

Cynthia was about to move, but stopped herself as the girl, Rosa, set two plates of food in front of them.

"I recommend eating. Rosa is the best cook I've ever hired," the old man said.

"Learned it all form you," Rose replied, adding a wink.

She walked over to the table with the sleeping man and grabbed his cup and set it in front of the old man. She disappeared once again into the kitchen.

Cynthia glanced toward Sycamore. She could tell he wanted to eat, but was worried about what the old man had said.

"No need to worry. I won't turn you in."

"I can't trust you," Cynthia said, her gaze narrowing.

"Let's just say that I despise the man hunting you," the old man said.

"Cynthia, let's deal with this later."

The blonde turned to Sycamore. He was beginning to look paler than normal. She sighed and sat down, but kept her hand on her sword.

"Fine. We eat and we're gone."

"Seems fair, but I would recommend hearing what I have to say. After you eat."

The old man moved form behind the counter and walked into the kitchen. Cynthia watched him closely as he disappeared into that room. She began to eat, but kept her gaze in the direction the man had gone. She still did not trust him, but when he said he despised the person hunting them a part of her was inclined to believe him.

Out of the corner of her eye she saw Sycamore scarfing down his food. She could not help but laugh at seeing him eat as if her had not eaten in years. Staying in Enbarr had really spoiled him. As she looked away, Sycamore's face began to heat up but he was happy to see Cynthia in better mood.

Sycamore finished his plate far faster than Cynthia. She had barely made it halfway, but decided on giving the rest to him. Sycamore tried to argue that he already had enough, Cynthia insisted. She was used to not eating a lot and wanted to make sure Sycamore felt better.

She shifted her attention when she saw the old man exiting the kitchen, his two barmaids following behind him. Cynthia had not noticed the second one entering and wondered when she had slipped by her.

"I know the night's still young, but I'm running low on ale. Which means I have to close up for the night soon."

Several patrons groaned at the news, and complained that this was not the first time something similar had happened. Cynthia watched as the two barmaids walked around picking up empty cups.

"I know, but I'm an old man and I prefer to close up early," the old man announced.

"We all know that's bullshit, Rood."

Cynthia turned to see who the new, deep voice was and saw the man with the Conkeldurr begin to stand from his seat. Conkeldurr followed its master and grabbed its two stone pillars. The man grabbed one of his axes and pointed it at the two sitting at the bar.

"Those two are wanted, and I intent to collect on that reward."

The old man, Rood, sighed. "This is not the place for this, Maxwell."

Cynthia was surprised that such a burly looking man had the name Maxwell. She turned to get a better look at the man. He had dark red hair, with a similar colored beard. He wore leather armor, but had metal gauntlets. Cynthia could tell this man lived the hardened life of a mercenary.

"Then they just have to come quietly."

Around them several others drew their weapons as well, all wanting to collect on the bounty. Cynthia got up from her seat and drew her own weapon. She moved to be closer to Sycamore in order to protect him.

"Are you sure you want to do this? One whistle and my Garchomp will barrel in here," Cynthia said.

"Nothing Conkeldurr can't handle," Maxwell replied. The creature at his side snorted as it cracked its neck.

"You know the rules here, Maxwell, there is no fighting. The circumstance does not matter," Rood said.

"That's up to them," Maxwell countered.

"If they are under my roof, they are under my protection! I did the same for you once," Rood exclaimed.

"And I appreciated it, but a man's got to make a living."

Rood sighed, disappointed his words were not getting through.

"Though I'm sure if you brought them, you'd be in your old master's good graces again," Maxwell said with a chuckle.

Cynthia turned toward Rood with an eyebrow raised. Based on the way he kept his head down, meant it was likely someone of high standing.

"It took everything he had to get out the first time," Rosa said, coming to Rood's defense.

"We'll protect him and this place," the dark blonde barmaid added.

Cynthia turned to the two and was surprised at how dedicated they were to defending him. She guessed that whatever person Rood left, he managed to bring the two girls with him. Above her, she could hear the ceiling rumbling. She hoped that any guests staying did not add the amount of people that wanted to capture her and Sycamore.

"I won't ask again for you three to step aside," Maxwell said. When no one made a move, Maxwell sighed in disappointment. "Shame, I always liked this place. Conkeldurr, Hammer Arm!"

Conkeldurr charged forward, the pillars it carried began to glow as did its arms. Cynthia brought her fingers to her mouth to let out a whistle, but the rumbling above intensified.

"Serperior, Frenzy Plant!" Rosa called out.

Crashing from above, a green serpent landed in front of the group. It jammed its tail into the ground and the floor began to shake. Suddenly, large spiked roots emerged from the ground. The roots collided with Cokeldurr sending it into the wall. The roots kept growing, destroying the wall and forcing Conkeldurr outside.

Maxwell growled and charged forward. He drew his second axe and went straight for Sycamore and Cynthia. The blonde noticed him and drew her weapon just in time to meet one of Maxwell's axes. She swiftly disengaged from the blade lock and brought her blade up to parry the second axe.

She looked back quickly to see that Sycamore had scrambled behind the counter, trying to keep his head down. Behind Maxwell, Conkeldurr barreled back into the tavern. Its arms glowed again as it moved to attack Serperior. However, the Serpent easily avoided the attack and coiled itself around the muscular creature.

"Use Energy Ball!"

"Endure, Conkelldur!"

Just as a ball of green energy was blasted at point blank range, Conkeldurr glowed for a moment. Serperior uncoiled itself form Conkeldurr and returned to Rosa's side. As the smoke cleared, Conkeldurr was still standing with some kind of energy dissipating. Rosa clicked her tongue in frustration.

"Gonna take more that to defeat Conkeldur," Maxwell said.

"Then how about this."

Maxwell shifted his gaze and saw the dark blonde barmaid stepping forward. Cynthia noticed she was carrying a lance with the tip dripping with blood. She glanced back to see the group of young men in the corner all nursing a non lethal wound.

"Delphox, Fire Blast!"

Behind the girl was a bipedal fox with red and yellow fur that almost looked like a witch's robes. It held out a stick with a small flame at the end and drew the symbol for fire. The symbol then solidified and with a yell the flames blasted into Conkeldur.

Behind Cynthia, she heard the old man, Rood, call out for Sycamore to follow him. Happy that Sycamore was no longer in any imminent danger, Cynthia decided to use that moment to call on Garchomp. She knew her partner heard all the commotion, but was waiting for her summon. She was happy she had such a reliable partner. She brought two fingers to her mouth and let out a loud whistle. In mere moments, Garchomp burst through the back wall. She roared and charged toward Conkeldurr.

"Dragon Claw!'

Garchomp's claws became cloaked in a green energy and she drove them into Conkeldurr. The muscular creature tried to block it with the stones it carried, but was unable to do it quick enough. Garchomp's attack hit its mark and sent Conkeldurr back outside.

"Damn," Maxwell growled.

He once again charged toward Cynthia. The blonde readied herself for the attack. However, was caught by surprised when Maxwell threw one of his axes. She managed to block the axe, but the movement left her open for Maxwell's attack. She was spared from a critical blow when the girl with the lance blocked the attack.

Maxwell stumbled back and adjusted his stance. With only a single axe, Cynthia could better challenge him.

"Rosa, Serena, the back way's open! Go all out!"

Cynthia looked back to see Rood disappeared into the kitchen again. She guessed he had some way of escaping.

"Best get moving, Garchomp girl," Rosa said.

"Unless you want your partner getting hurt," the second girl, Serena, said.

Cynthia nodded and called for Garchomp to follow her. Her partner quickly complied, but spared one last glance back. Cynthia ushered her partner forward and followed where Rood gestured to. Cynthia was about to follow when she stopped for a moment to look back.

"How about, Serena? Wanna show him our combo attack?" Rosa asked.

"It was always the plan," Serena replied.

"What are you two girls going to do?" Maxwell asked.

"Feel free to watch. Serperior, Grass Pledge!"

With a screech, Serperior summoned a wave of leaves. The leaves scattered around the tavern and they began to fall to the ground.

"Is that all? Am I supposed to be afraid of leaves?" Maxwell asked as he laughed.

"This is the part you should fear. Delphox, Fire Pledge!"

Delphox twirled its stick and jammed it into the ground. Suddenly the ground began to shake and pillars of flames emerged from the ground. The surrounding leaves all caught fire enveloping the tavern in a sea of flames.

Using the chaos that had been created, the two girls made their way into the back with their partners following close behind. As they entered the door to the back way, Rood sealed it.

"Follow us," Rosa said to Cynthia and Sycamore as she and Serena took the lead.

Cynthia looked toward Sycamore who simply shrugged. "Nothing else for it." The two followed the pair of young women with Garchomp behind her and Rood bringing up the rear. She tried to ignore the building that was burning above them.

—-

Cynthia had no idea for how long they had been walking down the corridor. She was more impressed by the fact that such a place was even beneath Rood's tavern. As they walked he had explained the corridor was part of a series of underground tunnels that connected with the whole city.

Rosa and Serena seemed to know their way through as the pair led them with confidence. At each junction and at each turn, they made a decision with confidence. As they walked, Cynthia grew more curious at the group that had saved them. Clearly Rood had done something to help Rosa and Serena, as they had spoken as if they were indebted to him. Though something Maxwell had said about Rood still rubbed her the wrong way.

She glanced back toward the elderly man. He tended to his Swoobat that was perched on his shoulder. Its heart shaped nose sniffing whatever the older man was holding out. He appeared harmless enough, just an old man that ran a tavern, which now burning thanks to her. But their escape plan felt a bit too rehearsed.

She pushed those thoughts aside and focused on the matter at hand. If people like Maxwell were after her and Sycamore, then there was all the more reason to escape Enbarr. Outside of the city they could disappear and manage to link up with N. He had to know what was going on.

"How much farther are we going?" Sycamore asked, breaking Cynthia from her thoughts.

"Not far. We're coming up on a right turn and the end of that corridor leads to a safe house," Rose replied.

"Safe house? Why would you guys need one?" Cynthia asked.

"I'll explain once we arrive," Rood answered.

Cynthia turned to the old man with a raised brow. Their rescuers continued to grow more mysterious. If they needed a safe house, then they were people who may be in a similar position to her and Sycamore.

True to their word, after the right turn they reached a corridor that led to ladder. Serena went up first in order to make sure the coast was clear. Once she confirmed it was, the rest of them ascended.

The safe house looked to be a pretty standard home. It had two floors with the second floor being mostly rooms. Rosa had disappeared up there in order to prepare the beds for Cynthia and Sycamore, with her Serperior following behind her. Serena, who had changed out of her barmaid clothes into something more utilitarian, and Delphox kept watch outside, as Rood looked over a map.

Cynthia turned to Rood and saw the map he was studying. He had two large ones that lined the wall. One was of Fódlan and the other was of the underground tunnel system. Cynthia walked over the Fódlan map and began to plot a course that would get them out of Adrestia.

She could hear the old man sigh as he pulled out a chair and sat down. He gestured for her to sit as well and invited Sycamore to sit too. The two agreed and the three sat at the table in silence. It was quickly broken as Serena entered the safe house with Delphox entering behind her.

"The tavern's still on fire. You can see the pillar of smoke from here," Serena said as he sat down apart from the group.

"I see. A shame, I always liked that place," Rood said wistfully. "Though the years are getting to me."

"Oh come on, you're not that old," Rosa said as she returned to the first floor. She too had changed out of her barmaid clothes, but she still was wearing something similar to it. Her Serperior followed her close behind her.

"I appreciate the sentiment, but seventy is old," Rood replied.

Sycamore chuckled at the exchange, while Cynthia continued to study them. Their history together was evident, but she was more concerned about how they met.

"I need you three to be straight with me, who are you?"

Rood sighed as he pushed his chair back to stand up. "Proper introductions are in order. You could consider these young ladies my wards. The younger one is Rosa and the other is Serena."

Rosa nodded enthusiastically. "Yup, name's Rosa. I hope we can be friends. And this is my partner Serperior." The green serpent bowed its head in greeting.

"As he said, name's Serena. I'm about two years older than Rosa. My partner's Delphox," Serena said. Delphox also let out its own greeting.

"I'm Rood, and there's no easy way to say this, but I am a former ally of the man who wants you captured; Ghetsis."

In an instant, Cynthia was on her feet and had her sword drawn. She was about to strike at his neck, when she felt something stopping her. She looked up to see Swoobat had its eyes glowing. The bat prevented her from striking. At her side, she heard the crackling of electricity. She turned to see Rosa holding a weathered tome in one hand and a ball of electricity in the other.

"Mage, huh? Don't see too many of those anymore," Cynthia said.

"I won't tolerate anyone trying to hurt Rood," Rosa replied. Her tone had lost all pep, it was almost frightening to hear how monotone it was.

Cynthia sighed and loosened her grip on her sword. When she felt Swoobat's grip vanish, she returned her sword to its scabbard. Sycamore for his part had fallen out of his chair.

"Why not turn us in?" Cynthia asked.

"Because I am no longer affiliated with him."

"How can you prove it?"

"Rosa and Serena. I helped them escape Ghetsis's clutches."

"What do they have to do with him?"

"It's a long story," Serena said. "Just know that we were all under that man's thumb, we've been hiding from him ever since we escaped."

"Why not leave Enbarr?" Sycamore asked. "It can't be safe here for you."

"You're right, it's not. However, I wanted to remain close and try to learn more about what Ghetsis has planned," Rood said.

"Have you been able to?" Cynthia asked.

Rood sighed. "Not much unfortunately. Though, from my time at his side, I know he was forced to take things slow due to someone being out of his reach."

Cynthia's eyes widened for a moment. Could he mean N?

"What do you know?" Sycamore asked as he rose from the ground. "My research was supposedly all for him."

"Unfortunately, despite my close proximity to the man, I knew very little. He is a very guarded man, I doubt even those closest to him know his true goals."

"Then what can you tell us?" Cynthia said as she crossed her arms. "That goes for you two as well."

Rood sighed and returned to the chair he had been using. "You best get comfortable. What I do know involves the history of the legendary dragons."

—-

Bryony looked over the cinders of what was once a tavern. Her Liepard was at her side, calmly licking her paw. She watched as several grunts poured over the burnt wood and ashes. Behind her, a crowd had gathered to see what was going on. Luckily she had several knights to make sure no civilian got to close. Off to the side were several witnesses being interviewed about what had happened. While she had no proof it was who she was looking for, Bryony had a hunch it was that woman and the professor.

In her hands she fiddled with the visor that Lysander had given her. In its powered down state, the visor was a dull gray color. On the side of the visor were a series of buttons, each attuned to a different setting. She did not know exactly how Lysander had created such visors, but appreciated she was given one. The technology baffled her, but the visor itself was simple to use.

When she heard footsteps walking toward her, she put the visor into a special ouch on her waist and turned to who approached her. One of the interviewers walked with a small pad of paper in their hands.

"We've concluded out interviews."

"Anything?"

"A brawl did take place here, between creatures. The man with the Conkeldurr has a positive ID on the woman and Professor Sycamore."

Bryony looked past the interviewer and saw the man in question. He looked to be a standard mercenary. She smiled to herself as putting out wanted posters fast had paid off.

"Any idea as to how they escaped?" Bryony asked.

"According to the witnesses, they had help from the tavern owner and his employees. Just before the blaze, they had all escaped into a back room."

Bryony turned to the charred remains of the tavern, trying to discern where the back room could be. She would have to investigate that part much more closely.

"Right then. Pay the mercenary half the price of capture, that'll keep him satisfied," Bryony said. She looked toward the mercenary and smiled to herself. "Actually, hire the man. A mercenary has less paperwork to file."

"Shall I still pay him?" the interviewer asked.

Bryony shook her head. "Tell him the Adrestian crown will pay double if he captures both, alive."

The interviewer nodded and turned away from Bryony. She took her visor out of the pouch and walked towards the burnt tavern. She called for all the grunts to vacate the premises. The grunts quickly complied, leaving only Bryony at what was once the entrance.

She put on the visor, covering her grey colored eyes, and with one button press the visor came to life. The visor glowed green as different dots moved around the outside. In front of Bryony's eyes, different icons appeared. With simple button presses the icons vanished. With an unobscured vision, she cycled through the different modes the visor was equipped with. Most were useless as the fire and saw made most of the evidence vanish.

She slowly walked through the tavern, always cycling through a different mode to see if anything stood out. She spent several minutes trying to see if there was anything out of the ordinary at the remains of the bar. She felt like that would be the most obvious place, but found nothing; simply shattered glasses and burnt wood. She moved toward another area, which looked like the kitchen. Once again cycling through the different modes, trying to find anything.

When nothing appeared she turned off her visor and removed them. While there was a giant hole in the kitchen, there was nothing to show they had escaped through it. She turned to a room that had a door hanging off a single hinge. She managed to remove the door without much effort, but saw that it was simply a storage room. Burnt vegetables and wooden barrels filled the room.

However, when she looked to the ground, there was something different about the floor. Compared to the most of the tavern, the storage room was lined with wood. She knelt down and ran her hand down a plank. Soot covered her gloved fingertips. She took off the glove and tossed it aside. Beneath the soot, the wood looked largely unaffected by the flames. She put back on her visor and cycled through the modes. She stopped when one mode showed there was something beneath the wood. She whistled for her Liepard, who gracefully moved through the wreckage

"Here." Bryony pointed at where she had run her fingers.

Liepard nodded and her claws glowed. With one swift motion, several floorboards were sliced in half. Bryony removed them without much trouble and beneath the wood there was a handle. Through the visor, beneath were the handle was there looked to be stairs. She grabbed the handle and pulled, opening a door that gave way to stairwell. She smiled as she removed her visor.

"Gotcha." She stood up and exited the burnt tavern. "I want a search team prepared on the double! We move out in ten minutes."

A chorus of 'yes, ma'am' followed her words and grunts and knights alike scrambled to find what would be required for a search. Bryony watched as everyone moved about. She would be successful in finding the fugitives and show how useful she could be to both Lysandre and Ghetsis.

Cynthia stared at the drab ceiling above her. She could not sleep after everything Rood had told her and Sycamore. She turned her head toward her friend and was astounded he could sleep after everything. Though, she was happy her friend finally get to rest on an actual bed.

However, Cynthia could not bring herself to sleep. Rood had given so many answers to so many of her questions. At the same time, more questions were raised. She at least now knew what made N important. He was going to be used to summon one of the legendary dragons. She had thought it would be Kyurem, but it was going to be Reshiram or Zekrom. Cynthia realized how lucky N was for escaping when he did. She did not want to even imagine the type of person N would have become under Ghetsis.

However, that meant someone had to take his place. She had learned from Rood that Ghetsis had inserted himself into the Adrestian court after saving the Emperor's remaining child. In the end, that daughter became what N was supposed to be. Cynthia wondered if she had gotten the same treatment as N. Though based on Rood's explanations, things were not as severe. She guessed Ghetsis must have realized his mistake with N and changed the way he plotted a path for the girl.

In the end, all Ghetsis needs are people loyal to him or that share in his goals. Rood had been cast out for the man that had confronted her in the library, Lysandre. Rood had tried to condemn Ghetsis for what he was doing, but too many were already under his control.

Cynthia now knew how vast Ghetsis's control of Adrestia was, he was its ruler but not in name. Everything within the Empire went through him and everyone, whether they knew it or not, was being used by him.

"What the hell is going on?" Cynthia asked aloud.

At the base of her bed, Garchomp lifted her head and turned to her partner. Cynthia smiled and put her hand on the dragon's sand paper like skin. She then stood up from her bed and exited the room, making sure to tell Garchomp not to move. The hallway was just as drab as the room she slept in. It was, after all, a safe house. In the room across from hers and Sycamore's, Rood slept. While the room at the end of the hall, Serena slept.

She descended the stairs and was met by Rosa, who was entering after her time on watch. Her and her Serperior greeted her with a nod.

"You're up early."

Cynthia nodded. "Can't sleep."

"Don't blame you. I doubt anyone could after what Rood explained," Rosa replied as she walked over to a cupboard.

"Well, Augustine sure can," Cynthia said with a smile.

"You speak of him with a lot of fondness," Rosa said as she grabbed a basket of berries from the cupboard.

"He's my friend."

Rosa shook her head as she handed several berries to Serperior. "Yes, but you say his first name with a certain glint in your eyes. It's similar to the one he looks at you with."

Cynthia rose an eyebrow, but had a snarky smile on her face. "Is that right? Then what's that I see between you and Serena?"

Rosa's response surprised Cynthia, the girl smiled from ear to ear and it was obvious what she meant by it.

"I see. Good for you guys then," Cynthia said, slightly embarrassed.

"It was Rood who help me," Rosa said as she sat across from Cynthia while undoing one of her buns. "Being raised to be a soldier, one doesn't have time for those kinds of feelings. That's what we were told. Rood was different." Rose shifted her gaze up the stairs. She imagined the older man sleeping peacefully. She also undid her second bun, letting her hair fall. Cynthia was surprised at how long it was, almost as long as hers.

"It was that bad?" Cynthia asked.

Rose nodded, but still kept a smile on her face. "I never knew my family, for as long as I could remember I was trained to be a loyal soldier. I was the best mage amongst my peers, even if being one is becoming less and less common. We do have the creatures now." She shook her head as he returned to her previous train of thought. "Training was never easy. We always had to push ourselves to be as strong as possible. Never did I realize that would push me away from people."

Cynthia saw the sad expression that came to Rosa's face. With a simple look, she could tell that Rosa was someone who did not like being alone.

"It turned out, Serena was in a similar position. Also forced to be alone." Once again, Rosa shifted her gaze toward the stairs. "She would always be close by. It was Rood who noticed how we looked at each other and encouraged us to embrace the feelings everyone else told us to keep buried. Though doing so was a betrayal toward Ghetsis. So all three of us ran."

Cynthia listened to Rosa's closely. She found it amazing how those two preserved within the environment they were raised. The story also made her have a new opinion on Rood. While she did not still fully trust the old man, she had a new perspective on him.

"Why not leave Enbarr?" Cynthia asked.

"We tried, but it doesn't help to have wanted posters plastered everywhere," Rosa replied with a shrug.

"But how does running a tavern not bring attention?"

"We were far from where knight patrols would pass by. Plus, we had a few regulars who did not snitch."

Cynthia figured that made sense, but she still felt it was a bit careless. Cynthia sat back in her chair, taking in all the new information Rosa had given her. While hearing her story on meeting Serena was nice, she was more focused on what Rosa had been through. She wondered if something similar had happened to N. She would have to ask him the next time she saw him.

The two spent a bit longer talking. Cynthia wanted as much information on Ghetsis as possible, and while Rosa did not have much what she had was useful. Eventually, their conversation shifted toward simpler stuff, which Rosa seemed to appreciate.

They talked just as the sun was beginning to rise. Cynthia was happy the safe house had a window. While part of her thought it was careless, it made their whole situation feel less dire. As she turned to observe it, Cynthia heard someone descend down the stairs. Out of the corner of her eye, Cynthia saw Serena with her Delphox beside her.

She watched as she greeted Rosa, and it was like lovers would. Serena leaned down and kissed Rosa's forehead as the younger girl smiled happily. Cynthia smiled as well, happy that the two could be together and be happy, despite the circumstances.

"My turn on watch?" Serena asked.

Rosa nodded. "I took out the basket of berries, feel free to grab some."

"Don't mind if I do," Serena replied. She grabbed several berries and handed a few to Delphox. "You could've woken me up, you know."

"I thought about it, but I wanted you to get a bit more shut eye."

"How considerate. I'm sure our guest appreciated the company," Serena said.

"We spoke about a lot of things," Rosa replied.

"She's a chatterbox ain't she," Serena said to Cynthia.

Cynthia nodded with a smile. "I could barely get a word in."

Rosa giggled as a blush formed on her face. Cynthia could not help but smile as well. After everything she was told about what the young girl had gone through, she was happy Rosa could still smile.

Later in the morning, Sycamore and Rood descended from their rooms. Sycamore finally looked well rested, which made Cynthia happy. Everyone sat at the table in relative silence. There was a bit of small talk in between, but nothing of substance.

Cynthia kept her eyes firmly on the map. The road toward the monastery would be difficult, as they would have to cross many big cities. None as big as Enbarr, but the people who ruled those domains likely knew of her and Sycamore's status. She sighed and glanced at other portions of the map.

She set her gaze on Leister. She figured the towns closest to Adrestia would likely turn them in, but there was really no way to be sure. Her eyes moved deeper into the territory toward a rather secluded mountain range in the center of the country. She rose an eyebrow at the sight. Cynthia stood up to get a closer look. It was odd to see a mountain range there, on all other maps its was flat. She glanced over to Rood, who was speaking to Sycamore, and wondered if he had an incorrect map.

"What's the matter, Cynthia?"

Cynthia shook her head and turned to Sycamore, who seemed to have noticed she had been looking in their direction.

"It's just something's off about this map. There's a mountain range in the center of Leister that's not supposed to be there."

"Ah, so you noticed," Rood said as he stood up. He clasped his hands behind his back and walked toward the map.

"What do you mean I noticed?"

"I stole this map rom Ghetsis, but not even he noticed that detail."

Cynthia shrugged. "If one isn't looking too closely, then it goes unnoticed."

"Exactly."

"If you stole it, then those mountains must hide something, right?" Cynthia asked.

"Indeed it does. A village of people said to be descendants of the first people of Fódlan," Rood said.

Cynthia's eyes widened. She remembered telling N about a village that knew all there was about the legendary dragons. She had read the village no longer existed, but maybe that village was the same as the one she read about.

"Does that seem familiar to you?" Rood asked.

Cynthia nodded. "I had told a friend about a village to the east of the monastery called Draconis Village, but I didn't think it might actually exist."

Rood let out a breath as he put a hand on his chin. He stroked his beard as thoughts ran through his head. With a grunt he turned toward Cynthia with a determined expression.

"I believe you should go there and investigate. Perhaps they can hold the key to stopping Ghetsis," Rood said.

"But someone has to tell the Archbishop what's happening in Enbarr. My friend is there right now, I'm sure he could give us a chance to speak with her," Cynthia said.

"Then allow me to do that," Rood said.

"There's no way!" Rosa and Serena yelled in protest.

"If you're going to do that, then we'll come with you," Serena added.

Rood turned to the two girls and shook his head. "You two must accompany Cynthia and Professor Sycamore to that village. It is vital that we learn as much as we can about the legendary dragons. They are the key to Ghetsis's plan."

"Then who will protect you?" Rosa asked.

"I may be old, but I can still hold my own well enough," Rood said. "You're trek is much more difficult."

"He could pass as a traveling priest or someone on a pilgrimage. If he has you two guarding him, then he'd stand out," Sycamore reasoned.

"Well put, young man." Rood glanced between the two new arrivals and his two wards. He knew this would be a tough task, as the three of them had never been separated before, but he trusted Cynthia and the professor. "I may be able to leave the city without too many questions being asked, but you two need a way to keep your identities secret."

Cynthia and Sycamore looked between each other, unsure exactly what the old man was implying. However, behind them, Rosa seemed to know exactly what he had meant.

"Ah, a makeover! This is going to be so much fun!" Rosa burst into a sprint and ran upstairs. Not even her Serperior had a chance to keep up

Beside her Serena chuckled. "She's rarely this excited."

"What the hell is she going to do?" Cynthia asked.

Serena shrugged. "Dunno, but count on it being convincing."

Cynthia turned to Sycamore who responded with a sheepish smile. For her part, Cynthia groaned, but got ready for what ever the young girl came up with.

Bryony was very close to killing the next subordinate that spoke to her. She knew they had not found the targets and did not need reminding of it. After going through so many different paths, and seeing daylight as she went up another exit, she was at her limit.

She was surprised at how well the fugitives could mask their escape. The footprints that one of the settings in her visor found led them in all sorts of directions. She was sure that at least one would lead them down the correct path, but that had yet to be discovered. She had other teams searching down paths as well, but even they would turn up empty.

Bryony had not expected for there to be so many different tunnels underneath the city. She was told about catacombs beneath the palace, but they did not stretch into the city. While the tunnels they were currently under did not feel new, they certainly had a different air to them.

As she stood at a crossroads, she switched between different visions in her visor. Each showed footprints that led down a specific path. The things she did find odd was that all the paths only had a single set of footprints. According to all the witnesses, they were looking for five people and three creatures. All the footprints belonged to a human and they all looked the same. It was strange that there were not more footprints.

She changed the setting on the visor again, and noticed something different about the footprints that she had not noticed before. She switched to another setting and the difference was gone. She changed it back and saw that one set of footprints gave off a slight shimmer to them.

She knelt down in front of the shimmering footprints and carefully put a finger on it. However, nothing happened and the shimmer remained. At her side, her Liepard sniffed the ground her master had just touched. Bryony watched to see if anything changed, but nothing seemed to happen. She sighed and stood up, there had to be a reason for the faint shimmer. She racked her brain trying to figure out what could make something like this happen. She went through the different profiles of the fugitives in her head and remembered one person had a Delphox. Bryony smiled and turned to her Liepard.

"Use, Snarl!"

Liepard nodded and let out a high pitched screech. Behind her, her subordinates covered their ears and turned toward their superior.

The shimmer faded and several more footprints began to appear. Along the other paths, those footprints began to disappear. She laughed to herself as she had figured it out. Delphox created an illusion to mask their escape. The different footprints down the other paths were the correct ones, just set in a different direction.

"We have a lead, let's move," Bryony said as she took off her visor.

"Yes, ma'am!"

Bryony smiled, she would catch the fugitives before they left Enbarr.

—-

Cynthia stared into the mirror and appraised her new appearance. While her body was not really any different, her hair and face were. She turned her body in order to see her profile. She expected to see blonde hair that almost reached her knees, but it had been cut short to just past the base of her neck. Not only that, but her hair was no longer blonde; her hair was now a shade of dark red. She also no longer had hair covering her left eye, it was now parted to the right and the left side was pulled back.

She sighed as she took in her final look. While she understood the need the change her appearance, she did not enjoy the fact she looked so different. She liked her blonde hair and the way she styled it. It had even become too short to wear both of her hair accessories. Granted she had never cared too much about her outward appearance when on the road, but a part of her still wanted to make sure she always had her best foot forward.

However, she still had to give Rosa credit, as well as Serena. Both girls were very good at styling. She expected something like that from Rosa, in the way she burst with excitement at the prospect of a makeover, but it was Serena who was the more deft hand. Cynthia could barely recognize herself.

She took one last look in the mirror and turned away. She walked toward the bed and began putting on her clothes. She had to change those as well, so Rood and Sycamore went out to buy something. She smiled when she saw her usual black coat. She knew Sycamore likely snuck it in with the rest. She grabbed a light blue long sleeved shirt and simple light brown pants, and quickly put them on. She glanced toward her usual black boots, but decided to go with another set that reached a bit past her ankles appeared to have laces and a strap at the top to keep the laces in place. She threw on her usual black coat that had been slightly edited, but still felt worn. When she was satisfied, she grabbed her bag and exited the room.

As she entered the hallway toward the stairs, she could hear muffled conversations. She could distinctly hear Sycamore speaking with Rood, but Rosa and Serena would chime in on occasion. As she focused in on Sycamore's voice, she wondered how he would react to her new look. Her face began to heat up at the thought of it. Before she descended down the stairs, she took in a deep breath to calm herself down. That talk earlier with Rosa had really rattled her brain. She wondered if Sycamore changed his appearance at all. Did he cut his unruly hair? Or did he simply tie it back and shave his scruff? She knew Rosa helped him out as well, but did not know the extent.

She took her final step down toward the main room and if the conversation stopped, Cynthia did not register it. She looked toward Sycamore, whose eyes had gone wide and his mouth opened slightly.

"Well, do I look any different?" Cynthia asked.

"Ohmigosh, I almost didn't recognize you!" Rosa exclaimed.

"You were the one doing the makeover," Serena said as he put a hand on her hip along with a raised brow.

"I know that, but she doesn't look anything like the wanted poster," Rosa replied.

Cynthia sighed and turned to the two girls, but kept Sycamore in the corner of her eye. "I'm glad things have worked out. We should get moving, I doubt we'll be safe her much longer."

"She's right. Girls pack you things. I'll make sure they can't follow us."

Rosa and Serena nodded and went up the stairs. As they walked up, Cynthia noticed that Serena had cut her hair as well, keeping a lot shorter than before.

Rood began to gather up the maps and papers, while Sycamore assisted him. Cynthia gave him one last glance before turning toward her Garchomp. The scaly creature sniffed her, making sure that the person in front of her was still her partner. Cynthia put the dragon's mind at ease by placing her hand on her head.

"Even tricked you, huh?" Cynthia asked her partner.

Garchomp let out a snort followed by a nod.

Cynthia chuckled. She appreciated Garchomp's directness. Even if she could not speak with Garchomp, she knew her partner would always be honest. She glanced back and wondered if her other friend would also be as honest. She watched as Sycamore put several rolled up papers into a bag. She watched as his tied back hair loosened and he cursed at not being able to control it. She laughed at the sight, which caught his attention. He glanced towards her and gave her a sheepish smile. She could even see a tinge of red forming on his cheeks. Once again Rosa's words rang in her ears. Maybe there was a bit of truth to them, but Cynthia was not entirely sure.

—-

Once everyone was ready and packed, the group went over the plan one more time. Cynthia, Sycamore, Rosa, and Serena would all head to the village in Leister and gather information on the legendary dragons. While Rood would head toward Garreg Mach in order to warn the Church of Seiros what was happening in Adrestia. Rosa and Serena were still not on board with Rood going alone, but he assured them he could do it.

There was still one matter they had yet to figure out. The three with partners had yet to figure out a way to sneak them out. They could not pass through any gates with them as it would give away their identities. It was a rather simple solution, but Cynthia suggested that their partners scale the city walls and wait for them in the nearby forest.

With everything squared away, they began to exit the safe house. As Rosa went to open the door, she saw someone with green hair with several people walking behind her. Before she could say anything, Cynthia grabbed the handle and slammed the door shut.

"Dammit!"

"Who was that Cynthia?" Serena asked.

"One of Lysandre's people, Bryony," Sycamore replied.

"So it's Lysandre who's looking for you two," Rood said with a sigh. "That complicates things."

"How? Isn't he just another one of Ghetsis's subordinates?" Cynthia asked.

"He is, but he is essentially Ghetsis's public face. He governs territory in Arundel after certain events made him in charge of it," Rood explained.

"Is there back door?" Cynthia asked.

"We'd have to make one," Serena replied.

"She's checking door to door," Sycamore said as he poked his head out the window. "It'll just be a matter of time until she finds us."

"Then we fight out way out?" Rosa asked.

"It's an option," Cynthia said with a shrug. She put a finger on her chin and paced around the room in order to collect her thoughts. As she did so, she could see Garchomp out of the corner of her eyes staring at the door. She ignored her partner for a moment, but did a quick double take turning back toward her. "I got it." She walked over to Garchomp and put her hand on her snout.

"I get having to calm down Garchomp, but what's your idea?" Serena asked.

"No, Garchomp is the plan."

Garchomp tilted her head in confusion, as did everyone else. However, the first to get it was Sycamore.

"I see. They're looking for a Garchomp, so we give it to them."

Cynthia smiled. "Precisely. " She turned toward Rosa. "Let's put this new look to the test as well."

Cynthia strode to the door. As she put her hand out of the door handle, she turned to Garchomp. "Go wild, girl."

Garchomp nodded and added a grunt. She stood up and got ready to charge.

"Uh… Cynthia. How exactly is Garchomp going to 'go wild'?" Rood asked, his voice laced with concern.

"Sorry, but this safe house will need some repairs."

Cynthia swung the door open and sprinted forward. Ahead of her she saw Bryony and her grunts turning toward her. She played up her panting and tried to look as distressed as possible. She could tell all of them were on guard. She could hear Bryony tell them to keep an eye on her.

Cynthia stopped and put her hands on her knees. She panted hard and could hear the grunts getting closer. She pointed toward where she came from and could hear several people asking about their safe house.

"There's a Garchomp on a rampage. It just appeared and started smashing through homes," Cynthia said.

Just as she finished her warning, Garchomp burst through the wall. She let out a roar and jammed a fin into the ground. A line of blue rocks bursts through the street causing damage to another home. After another roar, Garchomp burst into a sprint down and alley.

"After it! It's the one we're looking for!" Bryony called out.

"Yes, ma'am!"

Several of the grunts followed, but Bryony and two more remained behind. Cynthia watched them carefully, they did not appear suspicious of her. However, she noticed that Bryony was not wearing the odd visor. Her grey eyes were scanning the environment. Her attention shifted when a crashing sound came form the alley that Garchomp had disappeared down. Cynthia heard her sigh and put on her visor.

"Let's go, Liepard. You two keep an eye on this one."

The two grunts nodded in response. Cynthia watched as the green haired woman also disappear down the alley. The two grunts stayed close to her, and kept their heads moving. Cynthia smiled, she was not priority. She had to hand it to Rosa, her disguise was working. She quietly drew the knife she kept on her belt. In a swift motion she turned and sliced at one of the grunts throat. The other was slow to react in drawing their weapon, which gave Cynthia the opening to strike. She deftly switched the hand that held the knife and sliced the other grunt. Both grunts dropped to the ground trying to stop the bleeding.

Once she was sure Bryony would not come back, Cynthia jogged toward the safe house. Everyone had gathered their things and Sycamore handed Cynthia her bag. She gave him an appreciative smile and gestured for everyone to follow her.

"I have one question: how will Garchomp get back to us?" Rood asked.

"She'll follow Togekiss," Cynthia replied.

"Togekiss?" Rosa asked.

Cynthia replied by pointing up. Rosa, Serena, and Rood all looked up to see a Togekiss flying above them. With a whistle, Togekiss changed directions and followed Garchomp.

—-

Outside the main gate to Enbarr, Maxwell carefully sharpened his axe. Behind him a small group of mercenaries he had hired were all talking amongst themselves. Several of them had creatures by their sides, but Maxwell did not expect much from any of them. However, the one that tended to his Gliscor showed some potential, even if he was not the sharpest tool in the shed. He was perfect for his plan.

By his side, Conkeldurr had its attention focused forwards. Just like its partner, it was searching for their targets. The money that woman from the castle gave him as down payment was too good to pass up. There was also the fact that there was so much more waiting once their job was complete. He could tell that woman was desperate, and someone desperate was always easy to persuade.

Once he was satisfied with his axe, he put it on his belt and kept his gaze firm on the road. After that bar fight he wanted to get back at the people who took him down. The two young women in particular he wanted another crack at. Maxwell had heard rumors about an elite unit from the palace and those girls fit that description.

As time passed, he could hear someone walking toward him. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw a short young man with bright purple hair styled to cover his right eye. He carried two swords with them both being strapped on his left side. Above him floated his partner, Gliscor.

"We've been waiting here for two days now. Are you sure they'll come this way?" The young man asked.

"Oh they will. It's actually the least suspicious," Maxwell replied.

"What if we missed them?"

"Not a chance, they stand out too much."

The young man shrugged. "Will the plan work? I don't see how I'm the best candidate."

"You have to trust me, Shez. I hired you for this job because this is the role you need to play. All you need to do is win their trust."

The young man, Shez, shrugged again. "Fine then. I'll play along, as long as I get paid."

Shez walked back to their small campsite, leaving Maxwell by himself again. He spared one last look at the purple haired young man and smiled, he really was perfect for the job. He turd back to the road and saw several people passing by. He saw a group of four walking together. He was about to ignore them until he saw two creatures approaching them, one was a Serperior the other a Delphox. He smiled as Conkeldurr echoed the sentiment.

"We found out targets! Let's pack it up boys!" Maxwell called out.

The sound of movement filled the camp as everyone began to pack up. All he could hear was the sound of money filling his ears.

—-

Bryony knelt in front of Lysandre with her head bowed in his private office. Beside him stood Mable, Aliana, and Celosia, each with their own expression of unease. Lysandre, for his part, remained quiet ever since Bryony finished her report. He had simply templed his hands over the desk and kept his eyes closed. When he let out a sigh, it made the hairs on her body stand. She glanced up to see him sitting back in chair.

"What I'm getting is that you failed in capturing the two fugitives. Not only that, but they have allies now," Lysandre asked calmly.

"Y-yes, sir. They were able to avoid me. I make no excuse for my failure."

"Good. I wasn't going to entertain one."

Lysandre slowly stood up from his chair. Bryony bowed her head deeper as the other three women knelt. As he took a step, the sound bounced from wall to wall, making each step louder. Bryony did not need to see her master's face in order to know he was angry.

"You let two people who can endanger Ghetsis's plans escape. As well as, letting them form allies that also know about his plans. I'm sure when he returns he will be most displeased."

Bryony did not respond. She feared the one eyed man's wrath more than Lysandre's. She had heard stories of what that man could inflict on anyone who fell out of line.

"I may have rescued you from his servitude, but we still share in his goals. It's only a matter of time until he learns of this."

Bryony spared a glance to her side and saw Sombra, one of the Shadow Triad watching her carefully. When she blinked, the white haired man was gone. Bryony could feel the cold sweat dropping as the man disappeared and with Lysandre's steps going around her.

"Sir, I have a contingency in place," Bryony said.

"And you think that will save you? You and I know that is unlikely," Lysandre replied.

"I hired a mercenary to capture them. I have full confidence he will succeed."

"You left you job to someone else, that's disappointing."

Before Bryony could respond, the door to the room swung open. Fearing Lysandre's wrath, she did not look back. However, she could hear the sound of heels clicking along the floor.

"Now, now, Lysandre, be nice to young Bryony."

Bryony instantly recognized the voice. She brows came together as she made a mental image of the woman. Her tone betrayed any kind of sympathy she had for Bryony.

"What is it, Malva?" Lysandre asked.

"Come now, she failed and that's that. She'll get due punishment when Lord Ghetsis returns, you said so yourself," Malva said with a giggle.

"Have you completed your assignment?"

"Oh please, gathering information is my specialty," Malva said as she walked past Lysandre.

Bryony glanced up as she saw Malva walk past her. She happily sat on their master's desk and crossed one leg over the other. Bryony could see her cocky smile, which was accentuated by her orange eyes as she removed her glasses.

"Our fugitives, who Bryony was unable to capture, due have a lead on Lord Ghetsis's plan, but nothing concrete. The woman's research had more to do with the history of dragons and their connection with people." Malva put her arms back and rested against the desk with them. "As for their assistants, one is a former advisor to Ghetsis; Rood. Couldn't stomach the man's methods so her left. He took with him to members of his elite unit named Rosa and Serena, talented mage and spear-woman. The one we need to worry about is Rood, but he's an old man he'll be easy to find."

"How so?" Lynsadre asked.

Malva smiled. "He's headed toward Garreg Mach."

"Allow me to find him master!" Bryony said.

Lysandre did not spare her a glance. "For you to fail again? I think not." He turned to Malva. "Where did you acquire this information?"

"The house Bryony neglected to look," Malva answered with a playful tone. "I also know where the woman and Sycamore are headed."

Lysandre raised an eyebrow in response.

"A mountain village in Leister. One not found on any map."

"Then we would need to have two teams follow them." Lysandre placed a hand on his chin and he mulled over his options. "Malva, follow the trail that leads to Sycamore."

"Oh, my, giving such a task to little old me? How exciting."

Bryony rolled her eyes at Malva's tone. She could easily convince anyone with her words. That was how she had risen through the ranks so quickly.

"You best not fail as Bryony did."

"I would never," Malva said feigning distrust.

"As for the old man, Mable handle it."

"It will be done, sir," Mable said as she stood up.

"Best of luck, Mable dear," Malva said with a wave as she jumped off Lysandre's desk.

Once again, Bryony could hear the condescension in Malva's voice and footsteps. However, at the same time, she feared for the people that she was going to hunt down. Bryony had worked with Malva once before and when that woman found a scent she would pursue it with ruthless efficiency.

Malva left the room laughing to herself. Bryony glanced back and saw the glee on her face. She was certainly going to enjoy the chase.

AN: And with that, this chapter comes to an end. As always I want to apologize for my tardiness on the uploads. While I had this one mostly planned out, it took some time to get everything flowing. The main issue was figuring out a way to set this up as a flashback so I needed a way to do it that wasn't just Cynthia remembering it, so I used the letter was a way for both you guys and N to find out. We will be returning to Cynthia and company more often going forward, so look forward to that.

This chapter is also the one that has the least amount of Three Houses stuff in it. I honestly did not realize it until I was deep into writing it. With this chapter we get a bit more about Team Flare's role in this, as well as the introduction of several more Pokemon characters. Rood needed to be in this story, as he is important to the plot of Black/White 2. Just like in the game, he broke away form Ghetsis, but for a slightly different reason which I hope came across in this chapter. As for Rosa and Serena, I wanted him to have companions so I went with two protags from the games. As to why they are in love, well things are more fun that way.

With all that out of the way, I hope you enjoy this chapter. Next time its the obligatory beach episode! This was one of the chapters I was most looking forward to since I came up with the story so I hope can do it justice to what's in my head. It'll have some of the usual tropes, but I envisioned it as being more of building relationships between certain characters. I hope you look forward to it. If you are enjoying this story, feel free to follow, favorite, and/or review. Until next time!