Interlude ~Base Convos Part 22~
"So... No wonder so many of our wyvern knights have wandered about under the orders of the Black Fang... As well as your operations being done under broad daylight effectively being sanctioned by the king." Murdock nodded while closing his eyes. In the next moment, he opened his eyes with a scrutinizing gaze. "However, this also means you are to be implicated for a potential assassination of Prince Zephiel. You understand?"
The party held a meeting inside the house where Murdock and his subordinate was watching the entire battle. Ike, the Reed brothers, Legault, and Heath stood inside the house alone with Murdock. In fact, before they held this meeting in the house, Murdock's subordinate whispered to the general, who glanced to the Reed brothers. Whatever it was, the brothers had felt an omen just occur.
Moreover, the group was forced to disclose everything since Murdock and his men overheard the conversations from start to finish. So any attempt to hide identities or connections would only result in conflict.
If they decided to fight, the situation would only worsen, so Linus and Lloyd had to speak truthfully on the matter. At the very least, the one they had to speak with someone who is most known for his loyalty, particularly to Prince Zephiel. Moreover, it seems as though Murdock believed the Black Fang led by Sonia to broker a deal with King Desmond to assassinate his own son. Such matters was beyond his abilities as a knight in service to Bern.
He then turned to Ike and spoke: "And you. You are also associating with them along with harboring a fugitive convicted of slaughtering innocent civilians. Whether or not House Reglay and the civilians decide to support you, there's much at stake as a mercenary group by consorting with known criminals. Good reputation amongst locals in Bern will not save you."
Ike did not care about himself, as his group could handle themselves. But Murdock was referring to Heath and the Black Fang present. True, the Black Fang were by all accounts, criminals. They chose their way of life to punish those above the law and help the exploited people. However, Heath was a different matter.
"Putting aside the matter of the Black Fang, Heath and his former commander, Vaida, didn't do it. They were framed." Ike replied truthfully, pleading for the wyvern rider's behalf.
"Commander Ike..." Heath whispered to himself while looking at Ike. Only for Murdock to shake his head.
"It matters not what I nor you believe... Although I've seen his actions to save civilians, as well as the reports from survivors who testified." To which the news brought surprised faces upon Ike and Heath. Murdock continued: "Some survivors spotted Vaida within Bern flying freely without being detained due to being given a probationary notice, and they've come to me to plead for her and her raiders who've defended them during that incident. However, the king holds all the power when he stripped Vaida of her rank and side with the fool (who began to panic upon his own reports of the former Dragon Fang General running amok with no one to arrest her). Only he decides to reinstate her based on her performance in the Black Fang and no one else. Any witness testimony from the incident would only serve as an excuse for the King to acquit her if she serves him well."
In other words, she just needs to carry out tasks for the Black Fang under the pretense of a suspended sentence. With that in mind, Vaida becomes less of a fugitive as a result. However... Performance?
Ike frowned at Murdock's last sentence. "So she truly has no idea of the real plan by the Black Fang? I've heard her real loyalty lies with your lord, Prince Zephiel."
Murdock stood silent before nodding. "She reached out to me, saying that she had a chance to return to Bern's military while she held some of our own troops at her command. She was filled with hope to re-enter and truly assist our lord... But now that she heeds orders from the Black Fang that works with the king, she's blissfully unaware of the orders she takes only goes against the one who sits on the throne of Bern..."
He also believed that his lord, Prince Zephiel, should be the rightful heir to the throne. Vaida and Murdock held the same sentiments, but it seemed the former was not informed that the Black Fang she was temporarily assisting would plan to assassinate the one she was actually loyal to.
Heath seemed relieved and also worried for his former commander. No doubt she would resist against the Black Fang even if it meant becoming a fugitive again.
"Is there any way for you to inform her?" Ike inquired to Murdock, who shook his head.
"Only if she appears before me. But now that I am aware of the plans, my Prince needs me more than ever..." Murdock then whistled loudly, to which everyone's eyes narrowed at Murdock's sudden action. It then turned into spite as some of his subordinates walked in with an older-looking man with red hair in restraints and a cloth covering his mouth while unconscious. Lloyd, Linus, and Legault looked visibly shaken at the man they knew being tied up.
"Jan!" Lloyd called out seeing one of their most trusted friends and members tied up.
Linus then turned to Murdock with a glare. "You dastard! What have you done with him!?"
Jan was said to have separated from Igor and the others after the base was overrun. Not all of their loyal subordinates could escape from the onslaught of Sonia's faction.
However, Murdock kept his steady gaze despite the vicious glare he received from Linus along with the cold stare from Legault and Lloyd. Ike also frowned at the rather cruel hostage situation while Heath looked visibly concerned.
"We witnessed this man being pursued by his fellow Fang members before we arrived to this house, we've dealt with his pursuers but he was still associated with the Black Fang. Most specifically, he kept calling out your names, Lloyd and Linus Reed..." Murdock received glares upon mention of their names. "Now that we've confirmed his importance to you, it's all the more reason to ensure you do your best to help Prince Zephiel and to clean up your family's messes." Murdock explained calmly, ignoring the pointed stares towards him.
Murdock then returned the glare with his own and continued: "I have to also remind you that you Black Fang brought in fugitives in your ranks, such as that Pascal, one who had slaughtered countless innocents as a noble. I am aware you've targeted corrupt nobles in the past, but now you have an unshirkable responsibility for going against your own code as of recent events. Your own family's actions and negligence led to this, and now you must work towards fixing the mess you've made. You allowed unsavory individuals into your family and ranks, so you must prevent the operations from taking place."
Indeed, Murdock had a point that the Reed family allowed such people into their organization and caused it to rot. Granted, they are making an effort, but recent events made the issue more apparent. They should have screened the people they've brought in with more standards. Hell, even Harken was within their ranks despite being a Pheraen knight undercover until he joined the battle.
Their aggression towards Murdock eased upon his reasoning. Still, to try to hold their trusted comrade as leverage...
"So..." Ike spoke as he made eye-contact with Murdock. "Is there anything else besides just weeding out the ones wanting to kill Prince Zephiel, minus the king?"
There had to be more besides just saving his lord's assassination. And they couldn't just accuse or weed out the king, no matter how despicable he was to his own son in enlisting the services of the Fang. But something had to be done in response against Desmond's recent action.
"... I want you to recover a certain missing artifact. The Fire Emblem, the imperial seal of Bern. A national treasure." Ike then raised an eyebrow at the idea of going on a fetch quest by Murdock. However, the general ignored the look Ike gave. "Without it, Prince Zephiel cannot be pronounced heir, let alone continue the ceremony. Find it within these ten days by bringing it to I, or to her Majesty, Queen Hellene. Recent events have led me to believe that the Fang are involved." Murdock stated to the mercenary commander almost like a business contract. He also glanced to the trio of Black Fang within the room at the last sentence, who had their eyes narrowed.
So Sonia might have taken the artifact from King Desmond. All to prevent the coronation from taking place. Makes sense, given the circumstances.
"I don't doubt a national treasure can be taken from a highly guarded spot, and by one person aside from maybe some of the greatest sorcerers in Elibe... but I have to ask... why?"
Ike's question earned Murdock a raise of the brow. That one person Ike had just referred to was the king (minus the sorcerer bit).
"...Why does he keep doing this to his own son? What drives a father to go as far as to wanting to kill their own flesh and blood? Why does he keep sabotaging him? Ephidel, as far as I know, is a kind person. One who is respected by the people and had good talents. Why can't his father be proud?" Ike queried to the humble general who closed his eyes in response.
Everyone looked to Ike who held an expression of frustration. He truly could not understand the actions of such a man who could hate his own son to such a degree. Nergal had forgotten his own family, but this man actively rejected his family intentionally. It became all the more incomprehensible to Ike, who found such actions absurd.
"... It is not my place criticize the king for his... envy. I will endure until my lord takes his place. For the future of Bern..." Murdock announced solemnly. With that, he was ready to leave the house with his subordinates.
"Wait, General Murdock!"
Just as Murdock was about to take off with his subordinates and Jan, he looked back at the man who called him. Heath stood resolute despite not informing Ike of speaking up.
"I am still considered a fugitive while Commander Vaida is no longer being pursued for the time being, correct?" Heath inquired to which Murdock nodded. "Well then, in exchange for this man that you hold, take me instead. In fact, make a public announcement that you've apprehended me."
Ike became alarmed while the others looked at the former knight with surprise. It was practically suicide to officially get caught. Moreover, he was not even contracted to the Black Fang like Vaida, so it was less likely for him to be pardoned or acquitted even with witnesses.
"Heath! What are you doing!? You could get executed!" Ike exclaimed. To which Heath shook his head and turned to his newest commander ridden with guilt of having to leave the group like this.
"I'm aware. And I'm sorry, Commander Ike. But I must repay my debt to my former commander." He then turned to Murdock with a determined expression. "If you, General Murdock, spread word that a former rider of Vaida's Raiders has been apprehended, Commander Vaida may reach out to you swiftly. From there, you might be able to inform her of the Black Fang's true plan."
Murdock narrowed his eyes, scrutinizing Heath on his intentions. "Why would you go as far as risking your life for such a purpose? Tell me."
It was then Heath gave a salute and spoke: "I made a vow to serve House Bern alongside Commander Vaida. House Bern shall live on with Lord Zephiel. Not only that, my former wingmates: Isaac, Lachius, Belminade. We all owe Commander Vaida for allowing us to flee Lycia. Although I am the only one who remains, they would undoubtedly agree with me to inform her. That is why I will risk my life to carry this message. I am her soldier, she is my commander. If I die, so be it. At least let Hyperion find a new companion one day." He held out his arms, awaiting shackles to be placed on himself.
It was a genuine answer. Placing his loyalty and faith for his former commander to come to Murdock at the news of her former soldier being captured.
"So you want to go through with this...?" Ike queried to the wyvern rider who nodded.
"Of course." Giving a heartfelt smile to Ike, Heath continued: "But I will say, you are an exceptional leader, Ike. I know you'll succeed in keeping Prince Zephiel from harm."
Murdock stood silent in front of Heath's conviction, only to shake his head. "Save your loyalties for my lord... Vaida will not accept anything less than to follow Prince Zephiel with utmost diligence." Taking a pair of manacles from one of his soldiers, he placed them on Heath's wrists. He then removed the restraints from Jan and allowed the old Fang to carry him off.
"Until then, I await good news... Also," He then turned back the group, specifically Ike. "If worse comes to worst, and I am pulled away from my liege for no just cause... I expect you to protect the Prince with your life."
It was not just a premonition, it was a warning. Should Ike fail to prevent the Prince from dying, Murdock would stop at nothing to end Ike and the Greil Mercenaries along with anyone associated with him.
The only thing Ike gave was a silent nod. This was a mission he couldn't afford to fail and not just for himself. Not when there was too much at stake for people of Bern and the old Fang.
With that, general and his troops departed with Heath, leaving their former prisoner, Jan, and the others behind.
"...I'll find him a place to recover until he wakes up. We need him to inform us of everything." Lloyd announced while assisted by his brother to carry Jan.
"Haaa... I'm just worried about our father and sister..." Linus added.
Indeed, they planned to pick up Nino once her errands were done. Who knows what Sonia had in store for Nino. Not to mention the fact that they had no idea where father was. He was likely with Jan until they separated from one of their bases. Legault held a rare expression of uncertainty. But for now, they had to rest and await for Jan to come to consciousness.
Taking the loot from the enemies and selling them off to Anna's sister near the fort, they gave some of the funds received to the nearby villages as recompense. The group had finally gathered up the enemy forces bodies and was forced to do a mass cremation without the villagers watching. They couldn't risk the bodies of their enemies to be useful to Nergal or Sonia.
Priscilla, Raven, and Guy stood with Ike near the Northern fortress after having been debriefed by Ike on the situation. Fiora and Florina went off to secure shelter from inns within the villages while the others were obtaining supplies/weapons, training (Bartre), or managing the finances (Lucius with Renault watching over him). Geitz was off speaking with Dart while Harken was on standby given that his cover has blown.
Luckily, General Murdock reassured to the villagers that they were not being targeted by Bern's military even though some of their troops were clearly recognized as part of the military. One elderly man stood out that Murdock recognized as the former teacher to his lord, and asked to speak with him. In any event, the villagers still accepted their saviors and not believing that they were targeted because of the mercenaries or the Reed brothers.
Suffice to say, no one liked Heath being apprehended. Although he intended to go through being arrested to allow Vaida to consider reaching out to Murdock, it was far too risky.
"Boss... you sure about this?" Guy asked with a worried expression. "Heath's a great rider, we'll be down one flier to counter wyverns on the Black Fang's side. Not only that, we just lost a friend..."
It was rare for Guy to talk about the practicality of battles aside from himself and other's skills. Personal experience gave an insight for Guy to avoid having to deal with multiple wyvern knights at the same time. At any rate, they only had two archers after Geitz joined (aside from Bartre, who had modicum skill in handling a bow since he became a warrior class) and two fliers. Since Erk was the only anima magic user who could use a Wind tome, there were far too little options to counter the significant number of wyvern knights contracted to Sonia.
"It was Heath's choice to make. Let's hope it pays off and Vaida won't appear to hinder us or Eliwood's forces." Ike responded.
They couldn't bet on the Lycian side to convince Vaida to cut ties with the Fang. The best way to reach her was through her colleagues with Heath being captured as a signal for her. They could only hope that Heath's gamble would be in Ike and the Lycian Lords' favor.
"I'm sorry... I wish I knew how to decipher your continent's language. That way, I could cast wind spells." Priscilla spoke in a slightly depressed tone.
Guy widened his eyes in response. "Stop, stop! I-it's not your fault! U-um!" Guy began to fumble at her self-deprecation and wanted to cheer her up, hoping to come with an explanation as to why she wasn't responsible for exploiting the enemy's weakness.
Only for Ike to interject by stepping up. "It's not your fault, Priscilla. You're still learning the old language, not even Lucius can read Tellius tomes yet you're just as an effective fighter as he. Not only that, you're a great horse rider, you could carry people off to safety and heal them if things get risky. Besides..." Just as Priscilla felt better, Ike then pointed to himself, surprising everyone present. "I didn't ask for Wil and Rebecca despite the dangers of dealing with Bern's riders. We would have had a tougher battle had Jake not brought his ballista. If anyone is to blame for lack of utilizing advantages in battle, it's me."
"That's right. It is your fault."
Everyone turned to Raven who spoke up. The man in question continued in a nonchalant manner: "That's why it's up to all of us to cover your back and clean up after your messes. That's what family is for." He then put his hand on Ike's shoulder. "Try to have others speak up for you next time. Sometimes, even you seem to forget crucial facts."
Sure enough, Raven came to settle things in the end. Soon, everyone found themselves chuckling.
"Well said, now then..." Ike then held his chin in thought. "I hope we can get a new flier as good as Heath to assist us for the time being..."
"Did someone call for a flier?" A woman's voice called out.
Everyone's attention went to the source of the voice, with a woman in a blue Ilian pegasus knight attire with blue short hair and same thin-rope headband calling out to them. She held the reins to her pegasus, ready to ride into battle with a lance in hand.
She then came closer to the group. "Sorry to have eavesdropped, but I can't help but overhear that you are need of a flier. I heard a big battle took place when I came here, and a mercenary group that might be looking a bit small."
So she was likely traveling for employment and came across their group. No one seemed to tell her that the people they've fought numbered over a hundred.
"Are you offering your services?" Ike inquired. To which the woman nodded.
"Yup, skills like mine do not come cheap. After all, I need to make gold!" She boastfully exclaimed. She then closed her eyes, pointed to herself, and announced: "I am Farina, a mercenary attached to the Strongwings, Ilia's 3rd division of pegasus knights. And my partner is Murphy. Say hi, boy!" The pegasus neighed as if in acknowledgement as she also patted him.
However, everyone's eyes widened at the woman's real name. Fiora and Florina seemed to have mentioned their middle sibling from time to time. Even their name had a certain pattern to them. Again, what were the odds? They even found Geitz, a man Dart mentioned just yesterday. If there was some cosmic deity out there that seemed to bring people that were conveniently connected/related to reunite them, then this would be proof.
Just as Guy was about to open his mouth, Raven put his finger up to his own lips to shush at Guy, gesturing him to wait and be quiet while Farina was still patting her pegasus. Priscilla also followed suit. Farina was still likely estranged from Fiora. So if she were to suddenly know that her eldest sister is here, she might run off before she gets employed. After all, Ilian mercenaries never betray their employers, so the best way to keep her is to have her contracted to the Greil Mercenaries before she finds out. It was surprising that she didn't come across her siblings when scouting out for the group.
"Is that so? What's your offer?" Ike asked the woman who finally opened her eyes.
"Ah, so you've an appreciation for true warriors after all? Let me see… I'm yours for 20,000 gold." She offered.
Guy wanted to say something only to be shut down by Raven, who glared at him. They would handle it.
20,000... She probably wanted a way to repay Fiora's debts. However, it was more or less settled since Ike hired her.
"10,000," Ike offered to which Farina narrowed her eyes. "It's likely we won't have as many battles for this expedition. But you'll receive food and shelter whenever we come across it. Weapons are covered."
It was true, there wasn't likely much battles to fight in. Asking for half the original asking price was a haggling tactic.
"Isn't it the job of an army or mercenary company to already provide it? 17,500. Sympathy payments to my family if I die, medical treatment, hazard pay and bonuses. All of it will be covered in my fee." She explained as she made a new asking price.
... Ignoring the fact that her family was already in their army, she went down a bit.
This time, Raven interjected. "Slightly better, but you're cutting it close. 11,000, you also get paid 1,500 per battle we come across. We plan on finishing our expedition soon."
He knew the finances better than Ike over the past year. He also rubbed his temples at the time over Fiora and Heath's contract with the company when he paid them a pretty hefty deposit. Granted, they were good riders, but still. The hefty deposit to Fiora was mostly out of covering her debts and to Heath just to be fair.
Erk and Canas wanted all their payments in tomes, which were expensive, but all that contributed to the battlefield. That, and helping with making progress with the Old Tongue if their magic users plan to go to the continent.
"...15,000. But I will take the pay per battle as well." She once again narrowed her eyes as she brought down the price.
Ike then smiled at Farina. "...12,500. We plan on finishing very soon. But your skills will greatly be appreciated." He then offered out his hand to her.
Farina contemplated before giving a grin. "Not quite the amount I was looking for, but still a good deal! Both of you drive a hard bargain!" She then shook Ike's hand to seal the deal.
Raven then counted the gold (from their recent sell after excluding compensation to villagers, as well as some money that Igor and his subordinates salvaged after escaping from their base), put it into a new bag, and would have to inform Lucius of the recent expenses and consideration of budget for their newest member. He then handed it over to her, of which surprised even her. At best, she believed the deposit would be paid elsewhere.
"Welcome to the Greil Mercenaries." Raven announced while giving her deposit. Her eyes glistened at the sight of the gold.
With this, she believed she could help repay her sister and much more.
"Pleasure doing business with you sir!" She responded with a smile.
"Good." Ike nodded at her enthusiasm. "I'm Ike, leader of the Greil Mercenaries here in Elibe. We'll debrief you on the situation over dinner."
Ike then turned to Guy and Priscilla who were on standby, and ordered: "Fiora and Florina should be done finding lodgings in the villages, bring her with you to meet with them." To which they nodded. However, Farina eyes widened at the mention of her sisters.
"W-what did you say...? You know my sisters?" She stuttered as she was surprised at the mention of them.
However, Ike didn't respond to her as within the next moment, they heard flapping of wings from a distance. A pair of pegasus knights came their way. Speak of the devil...
"Commander Ike, we've secured lodgings. Let's... Farina!?" Fiora exclaimed, shocked at seeing her sister with their leader.
Florina also came up with Huey to widen her eyes at the sight of her older sister and smiled. "Sister!" She called out.
Ike then patted her shoulder and spoke: "I'll leave you three to catch up. By the way, your sister's debt has been settled by us." With that he left a dumbfounded Farina to herself along with the others.
"I'm glad you get to be with your family and work together, just like with my lord brother and I. I hope we get along." Priscilla added before leaving with her brother, who only gave a slight glance back to her.
"Pleasure working with you, I'm Guy!" Guy introduced himself before accompanying the others.
Farina remained stunned in place with a money bag in her hands, as her sisters reached to where she was to greet her. Somehow, despite getting a good sum and pay, she felt like she was swindled in the end...
Harken stood in waiting near the village he defended, only to turn to Ike who approached him.
"So you were alive..." Ike spoke to the once believed dead knight. "What happened at the time of Elbert's capture?"
Harken stood silent before finally turning to Ike. "I was powerless, too weak. I could not defend my lord against Nergal's magic. I am not worthy of being called a knight..."
It was then that Ike decided to retort: "Nergal is amongst the most powerful sorcerers in Elibe. No one could have anticipated how strong he was. It's not your fault, nor anyone else's. Just be glad you lived to fight another day, you have people waiting for you."
Nergal was far too strong for any knight to deal with. Moreover, Harken was extremely lucky to come out of the attack alive.
"... I entered the ranks of the Black Fang to get closer to strike back at them. But now my cover has been blown. I truly am worthless as a spy..." Harken spoke with self-deprecation in his tone. "How shameful I am to live while my comrades and lord stay dead..."
Ike rubbed his temples in response. "Without your help, the villagers would have likely been harmed. Enough of that nonsense. Moreover, you have a chance to return to Pherae and the people who care for you."
However, Harken looked even more ashamed than before. As if unable to face the people he failed. His lord's son, his fellow knights, his betrothed. Just as Ike was about to continue someone beat him to it.
"My commander's right, come off it. Honor means wyvern shit if you're dead." The pair turned to the source of the voice. It was Raven, crossing his arms while giving an impatient look. He was just done reassuring the villagers that Bern's military were not out to kill civilians.
Alot of the villagers were not convinced by General Murdock after some of the wyvern troops planned to attack them. So after that was done, he just needed to inform Ike but quickly got annoyed by Harken.
"Instead of spending your time moping around, make up for your failure by either returning to your friends and family alive, or coming with us. We're taking down Nergal's goons in the Black Fang by marching into their base. Moreover..." He turned to leave, with Harken seeing the back of the once former heir of House Cornwell. "The people who grieved for you will be glad to see you again. To me, it's more disgraceful if you decide to die leaving them behind. If you don't want bring your friends and family any grief, then live!"
With those words, Raven set off, leaving Ike and Harken to themselves. Even Ike began to leave, but not before looking back at Harken who was stunned.
"Eliwood, Marcus, and Isadora thought you were dead. But now that you're alive, they need you more than ever... I know I have no right to say this as the one who failed Elbert, but I know he wouldn't want you to continue on like this. He'd want you to protect his son and return to your fiance. That's all that should matter."
And thus, Ike left Harken to himself. He pondered on the words left by the two. They were right... His beloved, his trusted fellow knights, and the next heir of Pherae. They needed him more than ever to protect them from the clutches of the madman. But he couldn't return just yet, not before he helped assist this young mercenary commander take down one of Nergal's strongest assets. He'll also have to hand over that Silence staff he prepared for them to their convoy.
"I don't need pay. I just don't want to be bored. But I'll take food and shelter you provide." Geitz repeated.
Ike stood with Geitz while Dart was present with him in a tavern. Having left the Pheraen knight, he headed to the tavern where Dart and Geitz made a fuss. They received free pints for saving the villagers, apparently.
"You sure? We're going to fight against a strong organization of assassins as well as the one of the most powerful sorcerers in Elibe." Ike explained truthfully.
Geitz then shook his head and grinned. "Sounds like a good use of my time. I don't need fortune. I just want to find a purpose... Maybe fighting with you will help me find it. By the way, don't mention about my past. I don't want anything to do with the guild or the old fart." He gave a stern look as he spoke his last sentence.
It seems as though he hated his father with a passion. At least he had a bottom line that he would never cross.
"Crystal clear. Very well, welcome to the Greil Mercenaries. While you're under my command, you could work with Dart as your partner." Ike announced to which Dart gave a wild grin and patted Geitz's back.
"Welcome aboard as a temporary member! We may not be official mercenaries, but traveling with Ike never has a dull moment! If you also want to have even more wild adventures, come with us back to the Davros once everything gets settled here! The captain will love ya! We'll even have you lead the forefront when we rob the Bulgar merchant guild ships!" Dart offered while ignoring the warning of mentioning the merchant guild.
Geitz didn't even get frustrated, instead taking a swig of his mug and begin laughing.
"Hahaha! That will stick it to the old fart! Great, I'll join you, Dart!" Geitz voiced out with a merry mood.
"Aye, that's my sailor!" It was then that Jake came in that Dart also smiled at his fellow crewmate. "Hey, Jake! Geitz is joining us on the Davros once this is all over!"
"Is that so?" Jake remarked while patting Geitz's back "Welcome aboard! You won't be bored, in fact, we'll be sailing to uncharted waters and new continents soon! You'll love it!"
It was then that Ike felt visibly concerned. He left the tavern before anyone could notice. New continents? What were Jake and Anna hiding when Anna gave that offer to Ike, knowing that the Davros would not sail to a new continent, but potentially a new world? What method did they have to do so? Ike didn't doubt that Anna had to procure the tomes and scrolls somehow from Tellius, but why just sell them to Ike? Most importantly, who is Anna?
Just as Ike was ready to head to the lodgings of the old Fang, he heard winds shifting. Peering into the distance, he noticed Canas who oddly held a Wind tome in his hand in the woods. Could it be?
"Canas!" Ike came up to the newly-promoted druid who faced his employer. "You now know how to use anima magic?" To which Canas nodded.
Most magic users are confined to their respective fields. Aside from staves, magic users don't tend to learn other categories of magic due to not being attuned to them. To that extent, they don't learn beyond their specialties due to their aptitude.
"Indeed. The guiding ring that Anna modified seemed to have given me a chance engage in the communion of all spirits (AN: Sacred Stones druid). Aside from my specialties in ancient magic, I can now assist as a beginner of nature magic and staves." Canas explained with a sense of excitement in his voice.
That was incredibly helpful. They needed someone who could help fill Erk's niche with his absence for the time being. With Canas able to assist in using Tellius anima magic tomes, it helps immensely in fights their future fights.
"I'm glad, how do you feel about learning anima magic?" Ike asked the druid, who pondered on the matter.
"Well, I feel relieved to gain a perspective of my wife's field. Although, my mother would be offended if she found out I dabble in nature magic." Canas mused with a shake of the head. "But I will not detract from my pursuit of knowledge, whether it be elder magic or anima magic."
So his wife was a anima magic user? At the very least, Canas had a positive mindset.
Canas's mother, Niime, would definitely be offended and pull the ear of her son if she learnt that Canas was learning Anima magic. She could even smell it if she ever came close to her son.
"Is there anything about your family besides your wife and mother? Like your son?" Ike inquired to the man. Canas then smiled and nodded to his mercenary commander.
"My son, Hugh, he will be two this year." Canas answered. Ike listened intently at Canas's mentioning of his family. "Whenever I show my son some tomes, he gets visibly frightened and cries. My mother tried having all sorts of hexes to prepare Hugh, but there is no progress... I believe our lineage of dark mages will end with me."
What kind of grandmother puts her grandson through some kind of magical rituals. At the age of 1? That doesn't sound... healthy.
"Canas... that's sounds terrible. Maybe your kid doesn't have to learn elder magic, if he doesn't have the aptitude. You should tell your mother to stop." Ike responded to which Canas sadly nodded.
"Maybe you are right. I guess my mother did pressure me a bit much as a child... But my brothers and I were all raised that way and we seem to have turned out well..." Canas responded as he mused on his childhood.
Canas was a polite and modest man, but that doesn't mean everyone should undergo what he went through. And Ike doesn't know about Canas's other brothers.
"I'm going to assume that you turned out well-functioning because of other reasons, but your brothers...?" Ike asked.
Ike knew Canas had three siblings briefly mentioned by Legault. He was curious to wonder how Niime, the Hermit's family was if it included Canas.
"I have three older brothers as you know. Although they live, they remain... claimed by the darkness... They cannot move on their own and do not speak, they just persist... When one invites darkness to utilize elder magic, the temptation to submit to the dark forces is great." Canas explained in somber tone while Ike looked horrified of such a state. "And I know what you're thinking. Why go so far? Why risk myself by studying elder magic? The answer to that is knowledge... My curiosity pushes me ever forward. Lord Pent and Erk also follow the same logic for the pursuit of knowledge. It may very well be my undoing."
Ike stood silent at Canas's determination. Magic users like he really hoped to obtain mastery and pursue as much knowledge of their field. But...
"I know you're working towards obtaining more knowledge, but is there some goal you want to achieve?" Ike queried to the scholar, who tilted his head.
"A goal...?" Canas repeated.
"A goal might set you on the right track. I know you would never cross a certain line. But a goal to work towards would help you never lose your way." Ike explained, hoping to have Canas realize one.
Ike knew of those who had a goal, but lost themselves or have forgotten it due to delving into elder magic. If Canas was one to not go too far, and remained surrounded by friends and family, he might not lose his way.
"You have a wife and son, have you thought about working towards providing for your family or making their situation better? Sending Tellius tomes might help, but what about a greater goal with the knowledge you gain?" Ike queried to the scholar, who seemed to wonder about his own goals in life.
Canas then thought to himself and realized an issue that he has practically ignored.
"Well, Ilia is our home, and I know Florina and Fiora are also from Ilia, particularly Edessa, Northeast of Ilia and our capital. But living there is harsh. It is frigid at all times of the year, and snowstorms abundant." Canas explained in a somewhat sad tone. "What Dame Fiora spoke of was true. It is difficult to grow crops in such a climate. One could easily lose their lives with such temperatures or starvation. All the pegasus knights are forced to turn to mercenary work to have a living..."
He then looked into the distance in the North, and then his Wind tome.
"Perhaps being given a chance to learn nature magic has given me new perspective... Although elder magic is my main focus, I cannot deny the necessity of learning the forces of nature that govern our world. For the future of families that live there, including my own..." Canas then looked into Ike's eyes with a new sense of vigor. "Not only that, this experience of sharing knowledge and the thought of teaching others brings me joy. I thank you for giving me the opportunity."
"That's the spirit. While you're at it, go see your family when you have the chance. Your son needs his father after all." Ike responded feeling proud of Canas.
Canas then looked down, as if ashamed, making Ike look slightly worried at his state. "Oh you're right... I feel so ashamed... I left home to pursue knowledge just for myself without any consideration to my family, my wife, my son..."
Ike then scratched his head at the conversation taken a weird turn. "Well, at least you realize it now. But hey, you're working as a member of the Greil Mercenaries. You're earning money spent towards tomes and notes that could be sent to your family."
As long he's working towards a real goal. Even Erk wanted to work towards becoming a great sage like his mentor and father, Pent. He's come a long way since then using the Tellius tomes.
"That's right, that's why I must continue my studies and to assist you. If I may be so presumptuous, but I wish to go with you to Tellius alongside Erk." Ike's eyes widened at Canas's plan to go to Tellius. "Erk expressed desire to broaden his horizons in your homeland. Even though I'll be separated from my family a little longer, I believe this is the best course of action to learn much about Tellius's repertoire of knowledge that may be applicable to helping Ilia. If not, to earn my pay to send more tomes to my family."
Ike knew it wouldn't be as simple as sailing to another continent. But an entirely different world. He was surprised Erk and Canas wanted to come to Tellius.
"Very well, but I will have to inquire something to Anna very soon." Ike responded.
Just as he wanted to go and meet her, he heard a call from behind him.
"Ike!" Legault's voice called out as he approached the mercenary leader and druid.
They both looked to the silver-haired assassin awaiting the reason for his sudden call. Moreover, Legault had a solemn expression on his face.
"Jan's awaken. You might want to hear this."
Coming to the room where the Reed brothers and several of their subordinates were near Jan's bed, Ike knew something went terribly wrong. Legault stood watch outside the room in the inn, all while holding a sullen expression. Lloyd and Linus were also in anguish as shown from their expressions.
"What happened...?" Ike queried to the man who looked utterly terrified from whatever he experienced.
"T-the commander... After Igor and the others left, I was cornered... he sacrificed himself to have me escape..." Jan explained while sobbing.
Ike then grit his teeth. Once again, he was too late to save someone. The Reed family have just lost their father, the Black Fang's true leader.
'A-and it's not just that! The one of the people who attacked him, it was Uhai! They forced him to become one of their minions!" Ike then grew alerted at revelation. Could it be?
He them turned to the Reed brothers who were shaken from having been told the news once again.
"It's just as you said, there's no way of explaining it. They turned Uhai into a monster like them..." Linus growled out with a glare not directed at Ike.
"And if they do the same to our father..." Lloyd spoke with a solemn expression.
"Tell us the whole story from start to finish." Ike requested to Jan, who nodded. Although the group only heard the important parts, he would tell them the entire story.
Jan ran quickly as he could, after having separated from Igor and the others some time after they fled the base. Unfortunately, he met someone who he absolutely did not want to encounter in his path.
"Going somewhere, Jan?" Sonia spoke with a smirk. Jan trembled at the sight of the inhuman witch.
"S-Sonia!" Jan exclaimed. He could hear the enemy coming from behind, he needed to leave as soon as possible. Just as Sonia was ready to cast a spell, she became alerted.
COLOSSUS
Sonia dodged the attack, shifting herself away from Jan's at the sight of the axe that hurled towards her, which also caused the ground to break and resemble cobwebs in its aftermath. However, she was not unscathed, as her arm was grazed. She glared at the one who wounded her and smirked. Just the one she needed to end, personally.
"Jan! Run! Tell my sons of what happened! Prevent Nino from returning. Inform her of the entire truth!" Brendan shouted.
Sonia grinned at the news. So her "daughter" truly was unaware. All the more reason to have her be a committed daughter. At least she would have some use for her in the end.
"C-commander!" Jan exclaimed. Just as he was about to protest to have his leader flee with him, Brendan's eyes widened in horror at a glint aimed towards Jan.
"Watch out, Jan!" Brendan yelled as he came in front of his underling. "Urgh!"
An arrow pierced him in the chest where he blocked the hit for Jan.
"Commander!" They both looked towards who shot the arrow and they recognized a familiar face.
"U-Uhai... w-why did you do this to the commander?" Jan stammered to utter his words.
Uhai's complexion was deathly pale. Jan knew something was wrong. Uhai gave no response, readying his specialized bow, Reinfleche, once again.
Brendan glared at the woman, no, monster that wore the guise of a human.
"You turned Uhai's body into your puppet? You monster!" Brendan growled at the morph, who seemed ecstatic at her husband's rage.
"Yes! I'm glad you get to see your dear old friend become one of Nergal's puppets!" Upon her last sentence, multiple glowing golden orbs peered out to the pair from a distance. Every one of their faces were pale and lips blood-red like Sonia. One in particularly stood out from the rest, with their hair parted in the middle of their head with effeminate features. "I'm surprised you've noticed alongside your sons, Brendan. But you're too late! I've replaced the Black Fang with these abominations one by one!"
Only Uhai remained without golden eyes but he remained an undead. Without heart or pride of a man of the plains.
"Every minute I spent with you, every caress… It was loathsome! It was all for Lord Nergal. All to control the Four Fangs. Now it's over. Die for me now, will you? Die for your beloved wife!" Sonia shrill voice and rant resounded against the man, having genuine feelings of repulsion against Brendan.
"Hahaha..."
Sonia narrowed her eyes at her husband who laughed. Did he already go insane?
"I wonder if those feelings of disgust for me are all made by that man, just like how all of those things were created." Brendan voiced out, as Sonia felt offended of even being compared to a morph. She genuinely believed she was human. He then turned to Jan. "Jan, leave. Tell my sons...to forgive their foolish father. I hope they all survive and live to the fullest... alongside Nino. It's my fault for allowing the Fang to reach this state. I hope all of you can forgive me. Even you, Uhai." The man in question gave no reaction at being mentioned, only readying his bow aimed at Brendan. Brendan then pointed his axe to the enemy forces.
"C-commander..." Jan called out while his voice cracked.
"NOW RUN! LIVE! TELL THEM TO NOT HESITATE ON BRINGING ME OR UHAI DOWN! LEGAULT, LLOYD, LINUS, NINO, LIVE WELL!" Brendan charged at the crowd, while Jan sprinted away in tears. He heard his commander say one last thing before he could leave.
"I'm counting on all of them!"
With that, the only thing Jan could hear behind him was the shrill voice of Sonia and the Brendan's war cry. Until he was pursued by non-monsters under Sonia. His memory ends upon being saved and captured by Bern's military.
"And that's what happened..." Jan uttered as he stared blankly at the Reed brothers.
"Father..." Lloyd voiced out in anguish. Linus's eyes held rage as he was unusually silent, as he was the one who barked the most.
"B-by the way, where's Nino? Where's the little lass? We have to keep her safe!" Jan asked to the pair.
It was then that the brothers gritted in teeth in frustration.
"We should have kept her with us. She went away to carry out her errands for Sonia. Who knows what they would do to her..." Linus muttered as he responded. Lloyd also felt anxious, knowing Sonia might truly kill their stepsister, who was still in the dark about this entire situation.
"Well then, we'll just have to prevent that from happening." Ike then stood up from his chair and headed for the door. "You all know the way to your headquarters, right?"
Ike's inquiry earned him a nod to the head from those present. It would take roughly two days as a group but maybe one and a half if they hurry.
"Then we head there when morning arrives. We're going to march to your base and begin a counterattack. Until then, we all need our rest." Ike spoke, as if ordering them. But no one raised an objection.
As Ike came out from the door, Legault remained in waiting outside the door. As Ike passed by him, he heard the assassin speak:
"He's counting on all of us... Aye, Commander. We'll live on."
With that, Ike left to his own lodgings for the night. They didn't have time to mourn their father or father figure. They needed to carry out their father's last order as the last Black Fang present.
For Ike, he would continue on keeping the children and trusted comrades of the man who believed in him, alive. He won't hesitate, even if the people he failed came before him as puppets...
Unbeknownst to the group, the girl was within the other town. Nino was nursing a young man with spiky red hair and tattoos on his deltoids. He needed to accept his next mission, but he was stuck in bed. As he attempted to get out of bed, he was still too weak. Despite attempting to shake her off, she still clung to him, wanting him to recover fully.
"Please... don't die. You mustn't die." She pleaded while Jaffar while in an emotional state. As if in a prayer, she continued repeating it.
At least when the morning came, he could drink an elixir and head back to the headquarters. In this moment, he can receive warmth from the girl, even just for a little bit.
That very day, the girl's kindness would set a path of redemption for the young man as told time and time again. Whether the people he wronged would forgive him, it does not matter. His fate would always be tied with her, no matter where she was.
Fae's Adventure in Tellius Part 1
"Athos, although we've granted Fae more freedom with you around, teleporting her to another world was not what we had in mind when granting her freedom..." The bald elder spoke as he peered into the scrying crystal. "Although, what is this country of dragonkind?"
The elders peered into the crystal where Fae was feasting with fellow dragons who only possessed wings when transformed. The climate is far different from the desert. A mountainous yet still fertile land with it being a volcanic region and wide open plains. Far better than the oasis they had.
Athos was forced to inform the elders of what happened to Fae. He omitted the fact that the presence of Ike caused Fae to warp into this Tellius. At the very least, they could see Fae whenever possible by supplying magical energy into the crystal.
Fae's friend, Sophia, looked visibly worried. She knew she shouldn't have left her alone in the house. That way, they could have returned to Arcadia together. Even now, she could not foresee the future of what was to happen.
For now, they could rest assured that Fae telling everyone of Arcadia would do nothing. After all, the country that Fae was in was within another world. At least Fae was safe within this Goldoa. Her hosts are surprisingly lenient, despite revealing that they are an isolationist country. They do not permit outsiders whether they are... beorc (what they call humans in this land) or laguz (animalistic variants of people of which the dragons here are considered to be part of) not of their own kind majority of the time.
Once Fae's meal was done, they observed what appeared to be the Prince who decided to accompany her alongside his retainer.
Dheginsea peered out the window of the palace, watching his son play with their new visitor. He felt a sense of nostalgia watching over the young ones, suddenly reminded of the childhood of all his offspring.
But what made him ponder was where she came from. A place called the Nabata Desert? Could it be a place within the Desert of Death? She says she hails from a village of dragons called Arcadia, where even some beorc reside. Using the word, 'human' implies a negative connotation, but he chalked it up to context and lack of vocabulary on this girl. At any rate, if what she said was true, she was caught in some ritual that teleported her here...
"...And then Fae was carried on Ike's back with her eyes closed and met with very pretty ladies! And pretty men too! She even saw a pirate!" Fae exclaimed with stars in her eye as she also ate some of her meal. Gareth quickly wiped her messy face with a tablecloth to which she gave a thankful smile.
"That... sounds very fascinating, Fae. But how did you come across our country?" Kurthnaga queried to the young manakete.
Dheginsea and Kurthnaga had felt an omen when she supposedly met a pirate. Perhaps the people she came across were slave traders or pirates committing laguz trafficking. The little girl was young and impressionable. Not even the Raven or Hawk corsairs would commit such crimes against their race... at least they hoped that Ravens didn't. But it seems as though the people she met were all beorc, which was sadly to be expected.
Already, this Ike did not bring any good impression to the dragon laguz present at the dinner table. Whoever this beorc was, he would likely be turned to ashes if they came across him.
"When they beat the big bad desert bandits away with our guardian protector, Hawkeye, Fae went with them to Grandpa Athos in his shrine! There, Fae spoke with all sorts of people from the outside world. I don't like staying in my room all the time..." She spoke with a slightly depressed tone.
Likely for good reason. Her village seemed to have consisted of beorc and dragon laguz. Some even mixed as indicated from a mention of this Sophia who couldn't transform. An expected outcome of those who were branded... But the inhabitants might not have any notions of Tellius's customs within their desert, likely isolated if some dragon laguz might have separated from Goldoa at one point and built their community away from most of the countries. It seems as though they embraced good laguz-beorc relations despite being somewhat isolationist if context clues from Fae were to be believed. This notion made Dheginsea almost uneasy, almost ashamed. He still felt his actions in perpetuating the lie of branded being a crime against the Goddess all the more unbearable especially after Almedha, his daughter.
Although, what variant of dragon was Fae? Maybe a white dragon and a bird-tribe mix? Some mutation? Although beorc and laguz can mix, laguz of different tribes cannot interbreed to their knowledge unless they are closely related like the amongst the herons, hawks, and crows. She had wings in her beorc form... something that dragon laguz do not possess unless transformed.
"Ike then told Fae laguz included birds, beasts, and us dragons in Tellius! He said he never met birds or dragons until he met Fae. Although Fae remembers he met a big red lion beast king called... Cain... Caine..." Fae attempts to recall the name with difficulty.
"Caineghis. King of Gallia." Dheginsea spoke for her to which she nodded.
"That's right!" Fae affirmed in a cute manner.
It was then that the dragon laguz present were oddly confused. Just a few moment ago, they believed this Ike and his group to be kidnappers at least until they supposedly worked with Fae's guardian of the desert and met one of the supposed elders of Arcadia.
And who was this Ike that supposedly knew and met Caineghis?
"So what happened next, Fae?" Kurthnaga asked the child, who beamed at the dragon prince's question.
"Just as Ike and the others were about to say goodbye in some big circle, Fae jumped into the pretty light! I think I saw blue flames right before Fae came here... and a girl with yellow dress like Fae! She had red wavy hair."
At any rate, their guest will be remain in Goldoa for the time being... Although, Dheginsea seemed to consider inviting the King of Gallia for a personal discussion on the recent events and mention this Ike that seems connected to their guest.
He could see the girl smiling away innocently as she spotted a butterfly and chasing it. He cannot find it in his heart to reject or cast the girl away.
And he knew how cruel the outside world can be. He cannot risk to allow the girl to simply on some boat if she wished to return to her home. Not after his two children were taken away from him by Daein... His son, Rajaion, set off to find his sister and his nephew after her union with Ashnard and likely met a untimely fate. His red dragon troop went missing as well. Whatever the king of Daein was pulling, he was truly getting on his nerves.
If the girl's village likely kept her within her room to protect her, then he will do so in their stead. He could at least do that much.
But another thing came into the mind of Dheginsea, why did Yune appear before the child? What was going on? Was the medallion reacting somewhere? Is the spirit of chaos beginning to emerge with war on the horizon?
Once again, Dheginsea felt an omen, as well as his sins catching up with him. He watched his son and Fae walk together smiling, allowing her to go and see flowers in the plains. At the very least, those two can be safe in Goldoa.
AN: Realized I went past 200,000 words awhile ago. Hurray for my readers who keep up with me. Also,
Guests: Lyn and Ike already kinda kissed each other. A peck on the head though. This was before the attack on Caelin by Laus and right the prelude before Ike set off after finishing Lyn story.
Also, not planning to have Eliwood/Hector pov given that there won't be major deviations leading up to Laus aside from Rebecca not present in Eliwood first chapter. Eliwood and Hector would not mention Ike that much and it would be slightly redundant if there would be not any significant changes.
Thanks for following me on this story and putting up with my amateur writing.
