Chapter 6:
King Edgar and the South Figaro fleet arrived at Thamasa on a windy day.
The four flagships soared the flags of Figaro high above the mast, boasting the prosperity of the oldest kingdom in the land.
Relm Arrowny came out to meet them. Strago did not. Edgar rushed off the ship and approached the girl. "Your grandfather?" he asked, brushing off his tunic.
"My grandfather has gone to Eboshi Rock. It is time for his passing." Relm looked oddly relieved at the news. Edgar grimaced.
"I have no time for ancient customs! One of my cities has been destroyed, and by the Goddesses, I WANT TO KNOW WHO DID IT!" He suddenly calmed down. "How long until his soul joins the others?"
"Five hours."
"Then we have no time to lose."
The massive for of Baram hulked above Shadow, his arms mighty pythons, and his lower body a massive tail. His head that of a hooded cobra, and he hissed with malign intent. "Clyde. Revenge isss mine. You left me!
Now the One has given me the forsse to ssstrike you down."
Baram's arms shot out and grabbed Shadow around the chest. He gasped for air as he was pulled into a lethal embrace. "Why, Baram? We were friends..." his voice died as he could fight no longer.
Baram laughed, a sibilant hiss. "You left me. You would not kill me You left me for Doma'sss men!" With that he reared his head and prepared to strike a death blow to the ninja. A blow that never fell. Before he could strike down, a shimmering rectangle slid through it's throat.
A razor edged playing card.
"Locke!" shouted Sabin, banging on the door of the cottage. Locke came rushing to the door.
"Be quiet! You'll wake the baby." Locke grinned slyly.
"BABY? I guess you beat Edgar in the race." Sabin clapped Locke on the back, and entered the house.
"I was a perfect gentleman," replied Locke, imitating the Figaro King perfectly. "His name is Leo. Celes is still sleeping, and I was just making some eggs for breakfast. Do you want some?"
"Sure. But I have business to deal with first. Crescentia has been attacked and destroyed. I was sent here to look for help. Can you come with me? Can Celes?" Sabin asked the questions, fearing the response.
"I may be able to go. Celes will not leave. I am sorry."
"Lord Cyan of Doma!" boomed the messenger. "King Edward Roni Figaro bids you greetings. His city of Crescentia has been attacked and destroyed. He regrets that you have no army to help, but says that you should 'ware attack yourself." The messenger bowed before the King. "He also said to beware the Prophetess."
"Terra? Oh, Elayne, has it started again?"
And beneath the earth, a leader arose.