Chapter 8 / Resolve for the Future

I peeked out of the window again, as if I couldn't check often enough. "Are you sure the Guardia soldiers don't patrol this far out of town? They are supposed to be looking for us right?" I asked Taban, Lucca's Father after I closed the curtains once more.

"Well, Crono, it seems you've become extra cautious since you jumped through that time gate. And you kept my daughter in one piece after she went to break you out of prison," Taban grinned after a moment and I couldn't help but crack a smile.

"Yeah, it seems I had to make a lot of choices lately that I wasn't exactly sure how to handle. Although a Princess and my childhood friend breaking me out of prison wasn't exactly my choice," I admitted as I turned and sat on the couch in front of the front window of the living room. "I at the very least had to make sure the two of them made it."

"You say that but it isn't like you can stay here either," Taban crossed his arms. "What's your next move?"

I had given Taban a brief rundown of what had happened up to this point. I knew the next step was taking us back to the middle ages. "We need to get back through the gate at the fair grounds. After what we saw in the future, its the only way we can move forward. Regardless of what we do here in this time, eventually this world will come to an end. What is left is nothing but ashes of humanity."

Taban didn't say anything for a long moment, instead he moved to the front door, "I can't pretend to know what you all witnessed but I have never seen Lucca so desperate before. She blamed herself you know. All the time she lost herself in her research doesn't mean she ever forgot about you. So when she heard you were on trial she went to save you and I got in her way. She went anyway. Saying after all the years she had been such an awful friend, she wasn't going to sit by at the moment you needed her the most. You two are like siblings after all, I knew trying to stop her was pointless. And I would never insult my daughter's pride and resolve to stand in her way. So if she is resolved to follow you, then I hope you also respect that and stay firm on the path you set out to take."

I nodded as Taban put on a coat, "Yeah, you're right."

"For now rest, take a shower. I'll be back in a bit and I can tell you what the state of the town and military is. And take a break for once. Stressing yourself out isn't going to help you when a real fight breaks out. And you have two girls now that will need you to be the leader. Like it or not," Taban said before disappearing out the front door.

Well, looks like Taban is the same as always. Thoughtful, vague and always trying to give me advice that never makes complete sense when he gives it to me. I guess some things just didn't change no matter how much time passes. Just like Lucca's house. Looking around it was research books and notes scattered all over. Mechanical devices and random machines were here and there. It always looked like this, although it was always a bit different. The stacks of books often changed over time depending on what invention or crazy idea either Taban or Lucca were thinking about or working on. That had never changed over the years.

I sighed heavily after a moment and leaned back on the couch and closed my eyes. This whole situation certainly hadn't been how I saw my life turning out. The original plan was actually quite simple in execution. Build up reputation as a huntsman and protecting the people of Truce. Then work as a bodyguard and help merchants supplies get to other places such as Porre. I thought that would be a way to maybe learn something about my Father. Turns out that would have likely been a dead end. My life changed when I ran into a princess. Who would have thought of that? No one ever expects to run into royalty...especially in a literal sense.

Yet, she turned fugitive to save my life, and ran off through a time gate alongside Lucca and I with little hesitation. There was no simple way to return to the kind of life she had before. Although from the sounds of it, she hardly thought it was much of a life. Still how had her life been when her Mother was still alive? And my Father served as her personal guard. Lazarus, my Father, he had been a knight in service to the kingdom of Guardia. Much like my Grandfather, and his Father before him. That was just the way of our family. Or so the way Mom liked to put it. Always following our hearts and what we believed in. If anything it means that each member of the family found their own reason to serve the Guardia family. Including my Father.

"Hey Crono," Lucca woke me up by tossing a towel at me. I stirred and opened my eyes. "Bathroom is free, go get cleaned up. And take your time."

"Right," I said taking the towel and getting to my feet. I walked passed her, "Your Father went into town to gather information for us. So I think its safe to say we aren't going to leave today. You know how your Father is."

"Well we weren't going to be able to take shelter here if we didn't explain the whole situation," Lucca sighed. "I'm sure we'll have more to talk about when its time for dinner. But don't worry about that and just focus on relaxing...not to mention getting to have a real bath. You should have heard Marle."

"Oh I think I can imagine," I chuckled as I went through the doorway to the back room and then went into a door at the base of the stairs that went into the bathroom. It was a pretty decent size bathroom. Well it certainly seemed a lot bigger when I was younger. It certainly had been quite a long time since I had been here.

"Crono, just leave your things by the door and I'll make sure they are clean. I also have some clothes you can wear in the meantime," it was Lucca, of course.

"Alright, thanks," I called back through the door as I did as she asked. I took off my clothes and put my weapon near the door before turning and moving into the bath portion of the bathroom. The bath and shower were essentially separated into its own portion. Once inside it was tiled and the whole room designed to make it easy to use. It had been a project that Lucca and her Father had labored to create after her Mother Lara lost her legs. So a number of the inventions in place to help her around the house. Lucca's Mom...I remember that day well.

I was filling the bath and closed the door to the bath area before stepping into the large tub. Even the tub was larger than normal, able to easily accommodate a few people. Obviously so Taban could help his wife in and out of the bath. After all, Taban blamed himself for his wife losing her legs. As did Lucca. Supposedly her leg was caught on a device and Taban wasn't home. Lucca, who had learned quite a bit still didn't know all the inventions her Father had been doing. When Taban came home, it was too late, Lara's legs were already gone. After which the doctor made it in time to save her life. And Lucca, she had been there to witness it all.

Lucca ran, and she came straight to my house. The moment she showed up she broke down and cried. Mom was there, having heard what happened when the doctor was suddenly taken by Taban while she was visiting the tavern. I was there and I held Lucca for a long time while she cried. All the while saying apologies to seemingly no one. After that though Lucca disappeared. She had only a passing interest in machines up to that point, but it all changed. After that incident, Lucca became obsessed with learning everything she could, seeking to surpass even her Father. The motivation for that was obvious to me. She didn't want to be helpless like that ever again. I could almost hear the thoughts coming from her the next time I saw her. She was basically shouting that next time, she would protect...

I sat up in the bath as a stray thought came to my mind. Then I shook my head and slumped back into the bath water as it finally filled completely and I shut off the water. I put my head back and put a wash cloth over my eyes as I closed them. Just what had been Lucca's thoughts the moment that Marle had gone through the gate? She must have blamed herself. I went after her immediately focused only on Marle but Lucca must have wanted to chase her too. Only she knew that it would be useless if we couldn't get back. So Lucca took a chance and allowed me to go after her. She bet everything that she would be able to reproduce the effect and a solid way to make sure that we could get back. When we were successful she must have been happy. She must have been eager to go home and tell her Father of the success, and to ensure she quickly put down notes and confirmation of her success. She had managed to save someone from something her machine may or may not have been the cause.

That's right, the pendant had been the cause for it to change. So if that was the case...then the origin of that pendant might give us an answer as to why it had the capability to do such. But would that even be connected to Lavos? Or was it all just coincidence that we found out about it? In the end it was still our choice to go into the time gate that led us to the future. There was no point in trying to pretend otherwise. There were other options...and I also could have been the kind not to follow after Marle. Then again, what kind of monster would I be if I did something like that?

"You know if you think too hard you'll gain wrinkles."

I quickly removed the washcloth and sat up as I saw another individual now resting across from me in the water. "Marle? What do you think you are..." I started but Marle quickly moved across and put her hand over my mouth.

"Do you mind not speaking so loud? Just what do you think will happen if Lucca finds me in here with you?" Marle said with a smile and then a small giggle escaping her mouth anyway.

"That's my line," I muttered as I pulled her hand off of me, but as I did she slipped and fell against me. Her obviously naked body pressed against me for a moment and she steadied herself by putting her arms around my neck. "Why are you in here?"

"Would you believe me if I said I wanted to see you naked?" she giggled. In a rare moment, Marle had her honey blond hair down, and I got to see how long her hair truly was.

"Isn't there some kind of order to all this? Like us dating for more than a few days...I dunno maybe a few months, years most likely would probably be a better way to start," I turned my eye away from her. It was bad enough that I could feel her body against mine, her breast against my chest. Oh boy...there was no way I was going to be able to hide my body's reaction to her very beautiful and shapely body.

"Crono, please," her voice trembled and I looked back to her and into her eyes. "I trust you with my life, that means I trust you with my body. I know that even if your body is...wanting. You won't do anything unless its something you think we both want and ready for. That is just who you are, right? All my life I was taught to be a certain way, act a certain way. Told that I was to be a specific kind of person. And all that time I had never been brave enough to ask why. Now, here I am with you." One of her hands slipped from my neck and into the water, I froze as her hand touched the side of my body. "I'm the one that is tempted you know. But I also know that you probably wouldn't fight me if I said I wanted you. You're a growing young man, I know at least that much."

"So you're in here out of some sort of curiosity or some odd way you are rebelling against your father?" I raised an eyebrow.

"Well, I also did want to see you naked," She smiled. "Now are you going to actually wash up or just soak in the tub the whole time?"

"Oh? Looking for a chance to fully examine my body? Let me guess, most of what you know is what you learned from your tutors about the male body?" I was starting to see that Marle was in a playful mood. Or she was simply hiding the fact how the stress was getting to her. Well, I could play at this game too.

"Hmm, I am curious, maybe you can show me how it all works in detail," she said in a more seductive manner.

"No but I am curious to see where you're ticklish at," I found myself grinning.

"Huh?" she was confused for a moment that let me turn the tables as I put my hands to her side and attack her sides. "Pft...ha...hahaha. Hahahahahaha! St-stop it! Crono!" The two of us were now splashing water all over the place more than likely. But Marle was laughing almost uncontrollably now. "St-op...I...can't...take...any...more." Marle pleaded so I finally relented. Although when we stopped I noticed that she more on top of me than before. She was trying to catch her breath before she sat up. "Crono, I am sooo going to get back at you for that."

Seeing her like this, with her dazzling smile as she looked down at me. And completely naked. But I laughed. I found myself laughing and smiling like an idiot, and shook my head. "Nadia," I chuckled once more as I looked at her. "Thank you."

"You aren't alone in this, Crono," Marle then sat back in the tub opposite of me. "Don't think I haven't noticed how much you have been trying to handle on your own. I am your girlfriend you know. I wouldn't be much of one if I wasn't capable of this much."

"So your solution was to ambush me in the bathroom naked and just trust that it wouldn't lead to us having sex?" I asked bluntly.

"If we did, would you regret it?" Marle surprised me with her answer. "I was ready to give you all of me when I decided to leave the castle with you. Maybe it was the decision of a rash and naive princess that understands little of the world. But my Mother once told me that one day I would have to make a choice. And that it could not be taken half-heartedly. Once I made that decision, it would be all or nothing. When you were on trial, I knew then what Mom had been talking about. It was you, always you. The only way to save you meant leaving everything behind, and putting my love and future to you. So, Crono, if you wanted to have me here, in the bathroom of your childhood friends home, then I would more than willing. But the man I choose to love isn't like that. He isn't driven by desire, not fully anyway. You can't settle your mind until after you know exactly what we have to do to find the future that you want. A future where we don't have to keep running and aren't afraid of the future. So until you find that future you don't want to make any promises you aren't sure you'll be able to keep, right?"

I sat back as I looked into those beautiful eyes. The eyes that could see right through me as if I was an open book. "I don't know if I should be impressed, scared or worried about how you can understand me so well. And yeah, the thought of us having sex in Lucca's house doesn't sit well with me either. But your right. I don't want to give you any promises if we aren't confident about the future. I mean, what if you got pregnant in the midst of us trying to save the world? What would we do then? Put saving the world on hold? Have a child and then what? Abandon them so we could keep pursuing a way to save the future? I have no doubts that even if something like that were to happen we would find a way to make it work, but that isn't good enough. When all is said and done, I want that choice to be something that happens where we don't have to fear for the future. We can go forward knowing that the future will be what our children make it to be."

Marle then moved back over to me and kissed me fully, and pulling me close to her. As she delved the kiss deeper for a long moment she let out a moan of pleasure, and I couldn't help but respond to her in kind. Then she pulled away and stood up. "That, Crono, is one of the reasons I love you. And the more I learn about you, the more reasons you give me that prove that I was right in my choice. I'm going to get out now. If I disappear for too long Lucca might realize what I was doing. And you sir, might want to hurry and wash up." Marle winked and grabbed a towel wrapping around herself.

I looked at her and really took her in...her long golden hair and a body that couldn't be more perfect. "Nadia, have I ever told you just how beautiful you are?"

She giggled, "Not often enough."

"I like your hair down. I know it isn't ideal for combat though," I commented.

"One day you'll have the pleasure of seeing more than just my hair down. We'll just consider today a sneak preview," Marle giggled as she finally left me alone in the bathroom.

I sigh heavily as I sat back up. I was now mostly frustrated but at the same time I could think a bit more clearly. Taban was right...Marle and Lucca needed me to be a leader. I wasn't sure if I could do that job. However, whether I could do it or not didn't matter. It was something I had to do. No, it was something I wanted to do. Just like Mom said. We don't defend this land due to honor or some sense of obligation. No, my family only defends what it cherishes most. And right now, there was nothing that I cherished more than Lucca and Marle.


"I had a feeling you'd bring Mom back with you," I scratched my head but moved forward anyway as Mom walked in behind Taban. "Hey Mom."

"Normally I think I'd have enough reasons to be absolutely furious with you. I mean you go running off to another time to save a princess, then you come back and get sent to trial where they basically blackmailed their way to getting a guilty verdict. Where that princess and Lucca go in and do a ridiculous rescue mission that has you disappearing to who knows where and then have the whole damn military looking for you," Mom walked right up to me with the expression I expected. She was definitely angry. At least that is what I believed up until she hugged me. "Thank God you are alright."

Mom then pulled me into a hug. This had me more confused, "Are you sure you don't want to hit me or something?"

"I'm sorry, its my fault. If there is anyone that could be to blame here, its me," It was Marle. She bowed, her hair still down but Marle was back in her white jumpsuit. "I was selfish and involved him, and I didn't think of the consequences when he took me back."

Mom pulled away from me and turned to Marle, "Mom, she..."

"I don't want to hear it, son. This is between me and her," Mom moved forward towards Marle. She kept her head down and continued to bow at my Mother. I guess this situation was bound to happen from the beginning. I hope Marle was somewhat prepared for this possibility. "Explain yourself, why did you get involved with my son?" Mom's tone was surprisingly harsh, but I think I understood what Mom was doing. She was testing her resolve.

"It wasn't something I planned. I ran into him under Leene's Bell as it rang. I had never been outside of the castle and I wanted to make the most of my time so I asked him to come with me, after he helped me find my pendant. He was such a gentleman that we ended up spending the day together. Your son made me feel happier than I had ever been in a very long time. So I was scared, more and more as we spent more time together as I realized I would have to say goodbye. I was greedy. Me! A princess who wanted for nothing, and yet I risked it all to spend more time with your son. I stayed later than I should, and because of that it led to him rushing to save me and after he risked his life, my fool of a Father would have killed him. He saved me and he was only offered death. So I was selfish and I even took Lucca's help for my own advantage, so I could leave my Father and take your son with me. It makes him a wanted man but I...I'm in love with your son and so help me I am not going to let anything get in my way," Marle stopped, her voice somewhat raised but she still stayed bowed to my Mother.

"So even if I told you to leave my son? You wouldn't listen?" Mom asked. I know that tone.

"No, I can't. I am in love with your son," Marle didn't back down.

"And if I took him away from here?" Mom pressed.

"I'd find a way to find him and take him back," Marle resolutely continued.

I sighed, "Mom will you stop picking on my girlfriend?"

"Huh?" Marle looked up. "Picking on me?"

"Oh come now, Nadia. Do you really think I would doubt you after everything that has happened? You saved my son and not only that. But my husband made me promise that if you ever needed my help, I would be here for you," Mom added something I had never heard before.

"Sir Lazarus? He told you to do that?" Marle was speechless.

"Dad said that?" I added my own voice to this.

"Your Father was good friends with Queen Aliza. And he was often charged with looking out for Princess Nadia by her after all," Mom gave Marle a smile and moved towards her, she pulled Marle into a hug. "Thank you, Princess. For saving my son."

"No...if anything it was your son who saved me," Marle hugged my Mother back. "He saved me from myself."

I did what? I looked over to Lucca who had watched this exchange silently. She looked as confused as I was about what Marle had said. I looked back and Mom was smiling towards me as she was still holding on to Marle. "Sometimes, my dear, your acts are more important than you realize." She said simply. Marle was crying now, but Mom held her close.

Was it our time at the festival? She had risked so much to go to it. No doubt she would have gotten into serious trouble even if she went back on her own. Unless...she never intended to go back. "Nadia." I clenched my fist as I stepped forward. Mom let her go as Marle turned towards me still with tears running down her face. "You weren't planning to go back home, were you?"

Marle kept her head down, refusing to look at me, "That was before we met. Please don't make me say it, Crono."

"Crono, what are you talking about?" Lucca asked.

"Her plan wasn't to return to the castle after the festival. She thought that the Millennial Festival would be a fitting place for her last day," I said gritting my teeth.

"Please, don't. I'm sorry...I'm sorry," Marle was crying again.

"Her last day? You mean...she was planning to commit suicide?" Lucca gasped after the realization hit her. "So thats what you meant."

"Her Father trapped her in her own home. Not allowed to have friends, not allowed to converse with anyone other than her handmaidens. And even then I bet they didn't talk too much out of concern for her. For fear of what her Father would do to further restrict her. Nadia couldn't stand it anymore, especially when he refused her to even go and see the Millennial Festival. So she would go, no matter what it takes because at the time it didn't matter what happened after. Because she never planned for there to be anything beyond it," I stepped forward and pulled Marle into my arms.

"I hate him! I hate my Father that couldn't even bother to visit Mom when she was dying! Because of that man, it was me and Sir Lazarus with Mom. And then, he even took him away! Sent him off on a mission that was far below him!" Marle was yelling into my chest as she cried. "But I met you, Crono. You made me smile, you made me feel again. And then you went above and beyond when you came after me. If it wasn't for you...I...I..." Her cries rang louder. "I'm sorry, Crono...I'm so so sorry."

So that was the truth behind what some may say was a naive Princess looking for the thrill of disobeying her Father. Of taking in a Festival for selfish reasons. But the truth is never so simple and true motivations are often hidden so no one can see. Hidden deep enough because we don't want to admit the truth to ourselves. That was it all this time. Something I saw in her eyes, something I could see that she didn't want to admit. I only saw it because I knew that feeling too. That feeling of helplessness, that everything you do is worthless. That nothing you do ever seems to matter. The truth is that most of the time, we can't see the truth. After all we only see things from one angle, one perspective. We are only one person after all.

"Who was the one saying I needed to stop trying to do everything by myself? It's a two way street, you can't handle all of this on your own. I mean, as your boyfriend, I have to be capable of at least doing that much," I held her close. Marle was clutching to me as I turned to Mom.

She moved past us, "I know what you want to say, but we can talk more at dinner." Mom said as she left towards the kitchen.

"Gina you are the same as always," Taban commented as he followed my Mom.

"He's right about that," Lucca said as he moved to my other side and put a hand on Marle. "That is Crono's Mom, Gina. She doesn't let anyone run away from their thoughts, especially if she thinks its holding you back. It all has to do with their family."

"I guess so. Mom fell in love because of my Father's conviction, or so she tells me. Even before she learned the motto of our family. Follow your passion, and protect it with all that you are...well I'm just paraphrasing but its just how it is. My family may have served the Guardia Kingdom for generations upon generations, but we all served for our own reasons, our own passion. It wasn't loyalty to our country or its people. Only loyalty to ourselves and our passion," I imagine it was an odd concept to consider. After all our family on the surface would look like loyal servants of Guardia, but it was only because they had each found their own reasons to fight for Guardia. Right now, I only had reasons to fight against them. The biggest of which was currently in my arms. Marle likely had been planning to commit suicide but I felt her real reason for coming to the Festival was to look for a reason to stop herself.

"Only to yourselves and your passion?" Marle repeated as she seemed to be regaining her composure. "I like that."

"Come on you two. Dinner should be ready," Lucca was looking over Marle for a moment before glancing at me before heading to the dinning room herself.

"Crono," Marle whispered after a moment. "Shouldn't you be mad at me? I was telling you earlier that I'm here for you, but here I was thinking I shouldn't tell you everything."

"To be honest, it doesn't really matter," I shrugged. "After all that was before you met me, right? And it isn't like I know exactly what I want. Not completely, but I like to think I'm getting a better idea. Come on...though I suspect it won't get much easier. It isn't like our parents are going to just let us go with their complete blessing."

Marle was somewhat reluctant but she nodded as I led her back to the dining room. Everyone was already sitting at the table, Marle and I sat together on one side with Lucca in the spot next to me.

"Gina, how are the kids doing?" Lara asked from the end of the table.

"The increase in military presence certainly hasn't done us any favors but it hasn't affected the kids too much. Though they have been wondering where Crono has been. And it seems they haven't been too keen to let out any details," Mom explained as she was dealing herself a portion of dinner. Which tonight looked to be steak and mash potatoes. It was what Taban always seemed to like cooking. Mostly because it gave him an excuse to use his grill. Well just like inventing, cooking was also a time that Taban liked to experiment. Sometimes it worked out well, and others not so much.

"So have they not posted that we're wanted by the King?" Lucca asked.

"That's right. Soldiers are looking for you but the townspeople don't know that," Taban answered.

"Right but we should avoid getting anyone involved regardless if they know or not," I said shaking my head.

"Yet you have no problem involving us," Lara commented. "Well that is what family is for anyways. Wouldn't be much of a family if you couldn't rely on us when you needed to."

"Thanks Mom," Lucca smiled. "Still, we didn't have the intention of getting anyone else involved. But it would be unrealistic to try and get through Guardia on our own."

"Yes, and investigating the state of town isn't easy when everyone knows who you are," I drummed my fingers on the table for a moment before finally reaching for some food for myself. "I'd say we've lucked out so far. I mean, going through that cave and using that jet stream and come out close to the house here. I don't think we could have had it easier returning to our time in a place where we wouldn't instantly get arrested. I doubt I would even get a trial the second time around."

"That trial was a farce to begin with. He blackmailed and paid off people to make eye-witness accounts for things that didn't happen. And my Father forbid me from even showing to the trial," Marle muttered as she took a bite of her food that she had already served for herself.

"Your presence wouldn't have done any good either way," Lucca added with a shrug. "The chancellor would have gotten your testimony thrown out one way or another."

"Either way, whatever you would say wouldn't help anyway. There was a significant amount of time that passed when you went through the time gate and when you returned. And I doubt trying to explain time travel is the best of ideas. Who knows how someone might want to use it. As odd as it might be, this outcome might be the best, given what happened," Taban elaborated a bit more on the logic.

"Still, you say the world is going to end in the future?"Lara asked.

"In the year 1999," Lucca sighed. "Although we don't know much about this being known as Lavos. We did learn he was created by Magus during the middle ages."

"I don't like the fact that it is our only lead," Marle said.

"We could always start at the castle and see what they know there. I mean we've had to fight a number of things to get here, but even with magic, Magus is something else entirely," I shook my head. "He was the leader of the Mystics."

"Yeah, right up until he mysteriously disappeared," My Mom spoke. "Nothing is simple and the path you set on may only become more dangerous. But this is the battle you chose, isn't it?"

I blinked and looked up at Mom for a moment. I sighed and nodded, "At the time I was sure that there was no way of knowing just how far we would have to go. But still made the decision either way. We don't even know what we can do. But how can we know what will happen in the future and just live our lives without thinking about it? It would be one thing just knowing its going to happen...it is something else to see it with our own eyes. The future is a desolate wasteland that the inhabitants have forgotten what its like to even live. Even the land itself has given up on living...it isn't that the land is dead either, but its like...life has chosen to not return."

"That's why the three of you decided to save the future," Lara said after a moment. "Even if you don't know how to save it."

"I'll never forget what we saw. The humans there are barely living at all. If anything I think the only one that was still living is the one we met named Johnny. And he wasn't the most normal of individuals," Lucca pushed up her glasses. "Either way, it doesn't change my mind that it is what we should do. No matter what we may have to face."

"I spent my life, not understanding much of anything. I mean I had a ton of tutors and I had Mom, and even Dad was great at that time. I never knew what pain was...not until Mom died. Then it was like my whole world flipped on its head. But even all of that didn't prepare me for seeing the future. My problems with my Father don't mean anything if the future of Guardia is that devastation. So my future, and the future of Guardia...as the Princess its my duty to do all I can. Because if I don't then I would never be worthy of that title. I would never be deserving of the kindness that Crono has given me. That Lucca has given me. For them, for all of us, I will change that," Marle declared in a way I had never really heard her speak before.

"Good, because all of you will need that conviction if you are going to keep going. Which comes to the next part. Exactly how we are going to get you onto the fair grounds," Mom, Lara and Taban all grinned. Oh boy...looks like Mom had a plan.


"I didn't realize we would be in this for so long. It wasn't so bad when we first got into it," Lucca commented in a low voice.

"I did say to try get into the most comfortable position you could," I say in a whisper, wishing I had some amount of room to stretch but I could really only move my arms a bit. Well, Marle was laying on my right side, her head against my chest. Lucca was to my left but she was towards the side of the box. Yeah, all three of us were in a large wooden crate. My Mother's brilliant plan to get us into the festival grounds.

"I'm nice and comfy here," Marle replied. Yeah, as if I wouldn't be aware that the princess had gotten about as cozy as she could with me as they were putting on the top of wooden crate on. Eesh, I wonder how hated I would be by the guys if they knew I was dating the princess. Strangely out of everything that has happened that might be the one of the most normal things to happen.

Still I guess Mom was right...coming in as cargo was easy enough, considering the guards don't care to search inventory going into the Millennial Fair. The main reason for that was actually more simple than I realized.

"Most of the soldiers don't agree with the King or Chancellor, so most of them simply do the routes they are ordered to without even looking for any of you. And most do so in pairs so that if they do find you they can pretend they didn't find you at all. Helpful that the Chancellor didn't give any particulars onto how they were meant to find you," Mom smiled.

The truth being that there wasn't much support behind the current King because of his recent actions, and the fact he had been rather standoffish from his people. The fact that Marle had been hidden from the people was one thing that they didn't like. They wanted to know what their Princess was like. Even I had been curious to know. Now he was known as the paranoid King that trusts no one but the chancellor. Because of that there had been much discontent around the kingdom. I knew that...but it was a problem we couldn't deal with at the moment. In order to combat that we would need support behind the princess, and that would only put her life in danger at the moment.

So for now we were going to the Middle Ages and focusing solely on finding out about Lavos. One world ending problem at a time I suppose.

We were being moved again. The gravity shifted a bit as we were obviously being lowered from the cart. We all stayed as silent as we could in the meantime.

"Eeesh, how much supplies is your Dad making you bring for his cart? I don't think he would need this much," Someone spoke.

"Well you know Dad. He likes to make sure he has enough for demand," Another voice that I recognized spoke. It was Fritz. "Thanks for the help Edward."

"Yeah, yeah, next time get Ben to help you. I can't stand this stuff," Edward was obviously walking away.

The next moment the top of the crate popped open and I saw two individuals. "Rise and shine Crono and company. We've arrived." The sudden light from the sun made me cover my eyes.

"Thanks for the help, Fritz. I can't believe to managed to get talked into this by my Mother," I mutter as I helped Marle sit up.

"She wasn't even talking to me actually. She was discussing it with my Father and I interrupted. Well along with one other," Fritz said as another individual came into view.

"Hey Crono. Oh, Lucca, let me help you out," it was Elaine, Fritz's sister. She moved to the side and steadied Lucca to get her out of the crate.

"Thanks, Elaine. I think I was in there for too long," Lucca seemed to have problems standing for a moment.

Marle swung her legs out and hopped out as I got to my feet and followed behind her. "So your Dad knows huh? I shouldn't be too surprised." I reached back into the box and grabbed the rest of our stuff. Giving Marle and Lucca their bags and weapons before grabbing my own. As I did I noticed my bag was a bit heavier and I opened it.

"Its a thank you gift from Dad," Elaine smiled. "For saving Fritz. Well its from me too. Thank you, Crono as well as Lucca and your highness. I don't know what I would have done if Fritz had been executed." She bowed, "Thank you for saving his life."

I scratched the back of my head for a moment, "I would say it was more luck than anything but I won't turn down your help. I know how much Fritz means to you."

Elaine took her brothers arm, "Fortunately because of all the commotion you caused in your escape they didn't even realize he had escaped himself. Even with how clumsy my brother is."

Fritz sighed, "Either way I owe you big to have my life still. You should be able to walk around the fairgrounds without much problems. The soldiers are only posted at the entrance. So you can make it back to Lucca's invention without a problem." He smiled a bit, it was obvious that Elaine was still worried about her brother being taken.

"Either way, we shouldn't linger," Lucca said as she was adjusting her bag. "Even if the soldiers are on our side, it would be best if they didn't have to lie to cover for us."

She was certainly right about that. I tied my katana to my waist, "Thanks again Fritz and Elaine. Give my best to your Father as well."

"Good luck, whatever it is you are trying to do," Fritz said and offered me his hand. I shook his hand.

"Thanks," I said after a moment. Then I started to walk off.

"I wonder how much the Chancellor is doing behind Father's back," Marle muttered from next to me. As we moved up to where Leene's Bell was and up towards where Lucca's invention was situated.

"There is no point in thinking about that right now," I moved up the stairs that leads to Lucca's invention and we all stand in front of it after a moment. "Right now we focus on our goal, and that is Lavos. Maybe along the way we can figure out what to do."

"Yeah, I'm sure we'll have to come back at some point," Marle nodded.

"Are we ready?" Lucca asked as she pulled out the Gate Key. I nodded. "Alright, to the Middle Ages!" She held up the Gate Key and the Time Gate appeared in the same place it had been when we went through before. Without hesitation, the three of us jumped in.

Going through the time gate still felt the same. It was like a slide except you really couldn't tell where you were going. But you had to keep somewhat tense so you would be ready when it dumps you out. Having only traveled through it a few times I hardly knew if the Gates were the same in way of how it traveled. Still it was no time to think about that as we came tumbling out of the gate. It was the same place as before. Truce Canyon.

Fortunately we didn't run into each other on the other side of the gate. We all stood up.

"This place again, huh?" I helped Marle to her feet.

"The first time I was here, I was really scared and confused. I didn't really take in what this place looked like," Marle said as she looked around.

"First time I was here I got jumped by imps," I scratched my head. Fortunately I hadn't had to kill any of them as they had listened to me. Not the most normal of circumstances, but it seemed like not all Mystics necessarily agreed with Magus' approach to the war against humans. No, the more we learned, it was obvious that not everything is black and white. Everyone had their own agenda and motives. So that made me wonder, exactly what would Magus gain by destroying the world? In the end all intelligent beings were selfish. That meant there was a specific reason why destroying the world seemed like the option to carry out. I guess answering that question was first on our agenda. Well actually the first is finding out the state of things. "Let's head into town and head for the Inn. We should be able to hear some developments since the last time we were here."

"Sounds like a good place to start," Lucca adjusted her glasses before checking her weapon. "Let's try to be as incognito as we can. We still don't know what the effects of our presence might do."

"Lets talk as we walk. I don't think we can realistically do that personally," I said as we left towards the bridge. Looking around it seemed the Mystics that had been in the area were gone. Well, if that blue imp from before was the one leading them I suppose it would make sense. At least this time I wouldn't have to make my way in a dangerous manner.

"We're planning to change the future. I don't think we should hesitate to do what we have to," Marle commented.

"I know that, and so far we've been lucky. But...I don't know. I'm just worried," Lucca admitted as we made our way to the entrance of Truce Canyon. "With the presence of Time Gates we know that they are manipulated by some sort of energy. All of it follows the rules of the Conservation of Time. Energy is used, but yet eventually stabilizes itself enough to be used again. So in those terms it means that it regenerates over time. Plus a gate is not stagnated to a single point in time, but is continually moving forward. It's tied to a single location but it is still subject to the rotation of the planet. Meaning that it is still affected by normal time. Does that make sense?"

"I think so...if the gate was transfixed that means it would only ever exist in that spot at that exact moment in time. Meaning it would only be able to appear when the conditions line up. So if it had been transfixed it would not have been possible to come back," I said as we were leaving the canyon. "In that regard I guess that means we already proved that what the Old Man said was true. So at the very least we know it is tied to location and not stagnated to a specific time. In that case its been what...a week since we were here?"

"So it has been a week since we left huh?" Marle thought about it for a moment. "But aren't we coming close to the time where Magus supposedly disappeared?"

Lucca shook her head, "It's hard to know. Supposedly the force that managed to make it to Magus' castle disappeared as well. So the dates we learned are just approximations made by the castle historians."

"Disappeared huh?" I shook my head. I might be jumping to conclusions but wouldn't that be the same as jumping through a Gate? "Lucca, what happens when we aren't in our own time line?"

"You mean about us specifically?" Lucca asked, to which I nodded a confirmation. "I don't know for sure, but I have a working theory. Think of time as a river and we are merely a part of it. But when we go through the Time Gate we get taken out of the river, and become separate. As if each of us are separate glasses of water. Yet we are still affected by the river when we enter it again."

"So even if we are removed from our part of the river, we are still affected by what happens?" I scratched my head. "Like what happened when Marle disappeared."

Lucca frowned, "Yes that is possible but something still bothers me about that."

"What is that?" Marle asked.

"It's because you remember where you were in that time. I don't know if it takes time for the time continuum to correct itself but the result should have been you disappeared but there is something else that didn't happen. Crono and I still retained all of our memories of you, even though by my theory it shouldn't be possible. We should have forgotten about you completely. And our circumstances for being in the past would have also changed. But it didn't. At the time I just assumed there was a window we would be able to correct the action. And maybe that is true but I'm not sure if that is right," Lucca shook her head as we could see Truce coming into view in the distance. It seemed to be morning still judging by the sun.

"I'm guessing you have a thought about that as well," I looked at her.

"I don't have anything to work with to come up with any evidence, but I presume it might have to do with us being in a different time to begin with. Remember my theory? Like we are separate glasses of water. I think that our memories would remain unchanged until we were back in our own time. Back in our proper place in the river of time," Lucca said it so calmly but I think I understood it.

"So it would only become permanent once the river of time is corrected? Meaning the moment we returned back and Queen Leene had not been rescued means that Marle would have disappeared for good, along with our memories with her," I shook my head. "So in that case we wouldn't have been in danger of forgetting her while we were still here in the Middle Ages."

"Only if my theory is true but there is no way in knowing for sure. And finding out is potentially dangerous. But I also agree with you two that us wanting to change the future means that inevitably we will have to change the course of history. That I know for sure," Lucca sighed. "Still we can't be reckless, we have to think of long term changes we might cause as the result of our actions."

"Yeah, I understand your concern. For the moment we'll have to take it by a case by case basis. I mean, we kind of already have a problem in that regard..." I muttered as we were getting close to the Inn.

"Oh yeah, wasn't Crono knighted in part of rescuing Queen Leene?" Marle moved to my side. "Being a Knight at the very least gets you some privilege in this time period."

"I suppose, plus Queen Leene was nice enough not to demand too much information. The most they know about us as that we are from the edges of the Guardia Kingdom at most. Not that I think they would believe a story like us being from a different time," I shrugged as we finally entered the Inn which was also part tavern on the base floor. The three of us entered to see a moderately sized crowd sitting in the tavern.

"Say that again? Is that true?" A man on the far side of the tavern was talking to a younger man. "We've lost Zenan Bridge?"

"Yeah, not only that they said the King was injured in the attack," the young man said.

Another young man next to him was casually eating next to him, "No reason to get in a tiff about it. You know that a warrior with the hero badge has shown up. I heard he headed up to visit the King. So if the Legendary Hero has shown up then there isn't anything to worry about. Magus' army won't stand a chance against him."

"Hold on," I found myself walking up to the three. "You said the King was injured?"

"I don't know for sure, but that is what they said," The young man confirmed.

"Crono, let's head for the castle," Marle said. I nodded.

"Thanks for the information," I gave a quick bow and turned leaving the Inn with Marle and Lucca behind me. "Still if the Mystic's have reached Zenan Bridge that will make it hard to investigate Magus. After all, Magus never took to the front lines of the battle in what has been recorded. He rarely ever left his castle."

"That seems strange to me. He is revered by a lot of Mystics in present day. We heard that directly from the imps that reside in Medina. But if he never did anything directly, then why and how did he lead the Mystics?" Marle asked.

"Mystic culture is a lot different. For us as humans we respect the King more when he enters into battle along side us. It motivates soldiers to put in more effort when they know that their King is willing to put his own life on the line for his people. I assume you get taught something similar to that, Marle," I looked over to her as we were now moving through Truce to head to the forest path to the castle.

"Yes, as loyalty we hold ourselves to standards. After all its only by upholding those beliefs that we can continue to act in the best interests of the people, and not allow our standing to influence our decisions. We can't allow ourselves to believe that the problems of our people are not our own," Marle said as she was picking up her pace to the castle. She was definitely worried about the King.

Lucca and I picked up our pace to match her. I couldn't help but think she was greatly affected by the state of the kingdom in our time. If there was unrest among the people then it was clear she believed her Father was not following the beliefs her family had passed down. And no doubt had been passed to her as well. It was her Mother Aliza that had been insisting she keep up her training and learning of certain subjects. History, culture, archery, fencing and many other subjects included. Now that I think about, it be a good idea to find her a fencing sword for close combat if needed.

Navigating the forest was easy. And approaching the castle was a lot less nerve wrecking because of the the difference in time periods. While the path through the forest was the same, it was also different. Maybe it was just the difference in how the place felt over anything else. Either way as we approached the castle it was obvious that it was different as the guards were immediately defensive to our presence.

"Halt! Who goes there?" One of the guards demanded.

"Hold it, I recognize you. Sir Crono is it not?" The other guard eased his stance. "We apologize for such a greeting. But times have been turbulent as of late."

"I heard the King was injured in battle. And that we've been pushed back across Zenan Bridge. I came here to find out what was true," I said after a moment.

The guard nodded, "It's true, although it might be best if you go inside. The King is currently resting in his chambers but I'm sure Queen Leene could use some familiar faces to help ease her concern for him. It seems like she has not left his side and hasn't eaten anything since he's returned."

"Thanks. We'll do just that then, thank you," I bowed as the guards opened the castle doors for us and showed us inside. We made our way up the stairs and into the main audience chamber where the throne was. "A lot can happen in a week it seems. And Frog left too so this development is probably not an ideal one."

"Frog is an excellent swordsman. And it sounded like he was once in service to the crown. So perhaps his transformation into that form has to do with a previous engagement with the Mystic army? I mean the Mystics are the only ones in this time capable of magic," Lucca speculated. Somewhat unusual for her but probably for the best since she hardly has time to prove anything. I guess it was obvious that she would eventually allow herself to simply speak her thoughts. It was a nice change for her.

"True enough. Although we can use magic ourselves it does limit the number of suspects that could have done that to Frog. Though whether that is important for us to think about is another matter," I said as I saw the Chancellor talking with a guard.

He turned and recognized us after a moment, "Ah, Sir Crono, Lady Lucca and Lady Marle. It is a pleasure to see you all again. I wish we were in a better state to receive you but it it quite chaotic since the Mystics have pressed their advance."

"Please don't worry about it. We were hoping we could check up on the King and Queen," Marle spoke.

He nodded and motioned for a guard to come to him, "See them to the King's chamber please. Perhaps they might be able to convince the Queen to rest herself." The Chancellor looked back to us, "Any help you can do would be much appreciated."

"Of course, Chancellor," I nodded.

"If you would follow me, Sir Crono," The Guard motioned us to a staircase on the left side. As we went up the stairs we passed a few additional guards until we finally arrived to the top floor where the King's Chamber was.

"Ah, Sir Crono. It is a pleasure to see you," One of the Guards welcomed us. "And this is Lady Lucca and Lady Marle that accompany you?"

"Yes, we heard the King was injured," I replied.

"Indeed, the King fought bravely against the Mystic's troops. He lead multiple charges against the Mystics. Honestly, if it hadn't been word of the Hero's arrival, he may have fought to his death," the Guards words caught me off guard.

"The Hero?" Lucca asked.

"Yes, the Legendary Hero, he carries the Hero's medallion after all. Honestly, I'm ashamed of myself. I gave that boy the boot, thinking him no more than some peasant brat. How was I to know he was the Legendary Hero? Even still, he forgave me. Compassion to rival courage. A Hero, indeed," The Guard certainly seemed convinced. "Ah but we shouldn't keep you with idle chatter. Please enter to see his Highness." The Guards opened the doors.

"Your Highness, Sir Crono, Lady Lucca and Lady Marle are here to see you," the Guard who had been escorted us announced before we walked in.

The King was in his bed, and his head was slightly bandaged, but he was under covers so there was no telling the extent of his injuries. The Queen sat at the side of the bed and holding the King's hand when we entered. And it seemed the Queen's handmaiden was here as well. Even from a glance it was easy to tell that the Queen had not slept. The bags under her eyes were hard not to notice. "It is a pleasure to see you Sir Crono," The King sat up a bit in his bed.

The Queen also turned and greeted us with a smile. "I did not expect you all to ever return."

Well neither did we, but things had changed quite a bit since we had been here. Still there was no reason to explain our circumstances as it would be a waste of time. Instead, we needed to find out more about Magus. Maybe about why the Mystics had started to press their attack now of all times. And the talk of a Legendary Hero concerned me because it wasn't a story that existed in our time. Or rather it had become nothing more than just a myth.

"We heard you had been leading the defense. That's a bit reckless, don't you think?" I moved to the other side of the bed. Marle moved next to the Queen.

"The men's morale has been low as of late. We've barely had time to recover from the Queen's disappearance. Likely the whole plot had been a means to distract us while the Mystics had been gathering a attack force. There have been significant losses on both sides. And if I was able to take a portion of their burden by carrying some myself then I would say it is more than worth it," The King said with a light smile, but I could tell just how dedicated he was to his people. This had been his means to lighten his men. Injured on the front lines was definitely a way to show how much you care for your people. No doubt the soldiers holding the line of defense had been inspired by their King. If you weren't willing to put yourself in danger then some may question a King's loyalty to their country and its people. Leading the defense yourself left little room for doubt.

"Marle, why don't you take the Queen and get her some food," I said looking up. The Queen looked up at me, obviously going to object.

"Your own health is also part of your responsibility. You can't have his Highness worried about the War and you," Marle and Lucca took the Queens hands and pulled her out of the room. The handmaiden gave me a bow of thanks and rushed off after them.

"Thank you, Sir Crono. No amount of words from me would get her to leave my side. And it isn't like I could force her to do so," The King sighed. "So, what does bring you back here?"

I thought about how I could approach the subject, "We found out that Magus is planning to create something. Something that would not just affect Guardia, but the entire world. However, we aren't sure exactly he is going to go about doing it. Still, I think our best bet is to get to Magus. But if his armies are at the bridge then it will be difficult to do so."

"The attack force he sent isn't that big, but Magus' general he sent is named Ozzie. He is capable of raising the dead. So he raises our own defeated soldiers so the more we lose, the more he gains. All that needs to be done is defeat the general or force him to flee. Either way, it seems they haven't bothered with the neighboring towns either," The King coughed slightly but he held up a hand to indicate he was okay.

Ignoring the towns and going at the bridge? It was an obvious choke point that would lead to a stalemate. A thought crossed my mind, "Their buying time. He can keep the army occupied while Magus completes whatever it is that he is planning."

"Yes, that was my conclusion as well," The King moved a bit. "The kid bearing the Hero Badge went south to seek the sword capable of defeating Magus. Supposedly with the blade, Magus' magic power will be lessened. If you plan to get to Magus' castle then I would seek out the one you called Frog."

I blinked, that was a bit to take in, "How was he able to get past the bridge?"

"I believe he managed to get across in our latest clash with the Mystic army," The King recalled. "He is quite young and I honestly feel quite guilty for not stopping the boy. Still, he has the hero badge. And despite how he looks he carries himself quite well."

"But your worried," I finished and the King nodded in confirmation. This was no good...either way we needed to find a way to break through in order to progress. And if we didn't go fast enough we might not get to Magus fast enough to do anything. "Your Highness, this might be presumptuous on my part but allow Marle, Lucca and I to look into this. I'll find the kid with the Hero Badge and support him to get the sword and to Magus' castle."

The King sighed, "I know you are good for your word, Sir Crono. I apologize that I must burden you with a task like this. If I could, I would do so myself."

"I know you would, your Majesty," I gave him a bow. "I will do what I can. Though I can't venture how successful we will be. You should get some rest."

"Yes, I feel easier knowing that you will be looking into this. I hope to hear of your success," The King then settled in to his bed after a moment as I gave him a final bow and left the room. As I did so, I found both Lucca and Marle waiting for me as well as a man in a apron and a white hat.

"Ah, Crono. This is the Master of Kitchens. His name is Albert," Marle introduced him. "He has a favor to ask us."

"I've prepared provisions for the troops at Zenan Bridge, but we can't send any of the troops away from here. Would you be able to take them to Commander Fredric. Also, if you could tell him that he best come home alive. He is my brother after all," Albert quickly made his proposition.

"Considering I just told the King I would do what I could to help, I accept," I nodded and after getting the information of where we would pick it up and how to transport them, we moved back towards the throne room on the main floor and stopped. I looked to the empty thrones. "How is the Queen holding up?"

"Marle gave her a good scolding on how she wasn't helping her husband by making him worry about her health on top of his own. Plus the concern of the Mystic army breaking through the defenses," Lucca shook her head. "Thanks to that she got a good meal and her handmaiden saw her to bed."

"That's good at least," I sighed. "Seems some kid has something called the Hero Badge. And managed to sneak to the south in search of a sword that can apparently affect Magus' magic in some way. Either way, we can't do anything until we break through the bridge. And from what the King says, its a minimal force holding the bridge. And that Magus' General named Ozzie is holding it using only necromancy. He's raising the dead to replace his fallen troops. Even using the fallen of our own troops as well."

"Do you think our magic could give us an advantage?" Marle suggested.

"It's possible. They won't be able to predict it," I thought as I took a moment. We couldn't waste time. Either way, we needed to act. "Let's go for it."


As we arrived at Zenan Bridge, it was obvious that the troops were not in the best of shape. The camp had many moving around. But they were lacking in energy. How long had they been without these provisions? "Commander Fredric!" I called out.

A man in gleaming golden armor and a red cape came towards us as we brought the cart full of supplies to a stop. As he realized this he moved towards us faster, "Provisions from the castle?"

"Yes. Your Brother sends his regards. And wanted me to tell you to come home alive," I said as he looked at me then nodded.

"Albert is the same as always. Still I imagine it was hard to get these ready while trying to tend to the King and making preparations in case the Mystics break through here," He took off his helmet. "You must be Sir Crono. I heard rumor of your red hair and strange appearance from the King. He says you are quite capable warrior as well. If you wouldn't mind, I'd like to give you an update of the situation once I ensure the provisions get split up." He turned and another soldier appeared. "See Sir Crono and these Ladies to my tent."

"As you wish sir," the soldier led us off as Commander Fredric began yelling out orders to other troops and began opening the provisions to get them to where they needed to be. It seemed the defense was holding for the moment. And the arrival of the supplies would definitely help morale. We were in the Commander's Tent after a moment and the soldier left us to our own devices while we waited for the Commander to return.

In the middle of the room was a table with a map of the bridge, as well as several tokens that must have represented the enemy positions. From what was here...there really wasn't much in the way of enemy forces.

"If they were just regular Mystic soldiers I doubt they'd be able to hold the bridge for this long. But if they are undead, that could explain it," Marle muttered as she was also looking over the map. No doubt she had been tutored in the ways of military matters, such as troop deployment and strategy. "In which case an arrow barrage would do no good. And our troops stamina would work against us in this case. Especially if traditional weapons are not effecting them."

"Looks like we might be the only ones that could do anything in this situation then," I looked over to Lucca. "I know you are against us involving ourselves too much in the timelines, but I don't think we have a choice. We're against time right now. And if Magus does create Lavos then we need to get there as fast as possible."

"Yes, I realize this," Lucca shook her head. "Then what should we do? Act as a vanguard and lead the charge?"

"My only concern is if the undead have been using long range attack or not," Marle was looking at the map, no doubt trying to determine a good approach.

"They haven't," a new voice spoke and entered the tent.

I turned, "Ah, Commander Fredric. I hope the provisions have done good for the troops."

"It will lift their spirits. However, it is only a matter of time before the Mystic's try to press forward again," the Commander shook his head. "As you probably suspected, the undead are immune to normal attacks. While there are few numbers versus our own, they can't be defeated and when one of us dies, it only grows that number."

So the Guardia Army was at a disadvantage...and yet the Mystic Army wasn't pressing forward? It was obvious they wouldn't need much rest, other than perhaps the leading General. If he needed to be near for the attack...or maybe, he had to be close to the undead soldiers? If he was raising the undead, then maybe there was a limit to its effectiveness. Either way it seemed the only way to really find out was to attack head on. And Fredric had indicated they had not attacked with any ranged attacks. All of this sounded like stall tactics. Calling their bluff and attacking seemed like the best course of action.

"So, we're going, right?" Lucca brought me out of my thoughts.

I nodded, "More than likely there has to be some sort of limitation and why they haven't pressed beyond their position. And we don't have the luxury of time."

"But how do you plan to combat them?" The Commander was understandably hesitant. After all they had no success so far against them.

"We can use magic," Marle was the one to speak next. "Although we'd appreciate if you don't ask how we are able to."

"Magic?" He looked at us for a long moment then shook his head. "Do you think it will give you an edge?"

"Well, no other humans can use magic, right? Seeing us use magic could help us push an advantage," I took a moment to think about it. "The main target is Ozzie, not the undead. Without him, the undead won't have any direction. And possibly, they can't even function."

"If that's the case, then my troops and I will look for a chance to strike Ozzie. If you can possibly find a way to defeat the undead," Commander Fredric looked to us for a moment.

"Commander! The Mystic Army is launching an attack! They'll break through our front line any minute," A soldier came marching into the tent suddenly.

I turned towards the guard and then back at the Commander, "We'll head across, you just back us up."

He nodded, "Thank you, Sir Crono. As well as Lady Lucca and Lady Marle. I know this puts you all at risk, but the King told me before he went back to the castle that I should trust you. And honestly, I'm not sure we have any other choice. Forgive me for being so selfish."

I shook my head, "Forget it. We're doing this for our own reasons too. This is for Guardia and all of our futures."

We rushed out of the tent and towards the Zenan Bridge. We were aiming to change the future. To do just that we can't stop and ponder about everything that we do. If anything we need to stack the fight against Lavos and Magus on our side. To do that, we needed to be able to do anything to accomplish that. There was no telling how any of this would turn out. Maybe we would all die somewhere in the past, or maybe it is our actions that cause Lavos to even appear. Either way, there was no other choice for us anymore. We would do what we could to get the future we wanted. And there was no price I wouldn't pay, to make a future where Lucca and Marle, and our families in the future would not have to fear for that Ruined World that we saw.


A/N:

This chapter turned out a lot different than I originally thought. Mostly because I thought it wouldn't take long...but then it didn't makes sense. As I wrote it, it made me realize that there was no way that they would just be allowed to do whatever by their parents. I mean it is a world in which monsters are more than real. Yet they are never really all that concerned that their children are gone for such an extended amount of time. I guess that is pretty normal for games of that era, as most of it is focused on the main plot. And many significant parts of the plot are developed within the span of only a few lines. So I wanted to make it so that their parents legitimately supported them.

Plus I like the thought of there being complications when they return to their own time. It isn't like Crono being an escaped convict would change just because he was gone for a while. So they never have any problems moving around in the game, which is not that realistic. But that thread will eventually resolve itself, and I'm sure a few of you readers can guess which quest line will lead to it. But we still got a ways to go to get there.

Originally I had considered ending this after the bridge, but that would have held up this chapter a significant amount more, and I think we cover quite a bit already in what is here. Let me know what you think of the interactions between Crono and Marle, as well as Crono and Lucca's parents in this chapter. I'm interested in knowing if you like or dislike how I've gone about this. Anyway, leave me a review and I'll do my best to get my next chapter out sooner than later.

See you all next time, and I appreciate your continued support!