Unraveling Stories - Chapter 38

<-Chapter 37

 

"Sometimes the sun doesn't set; sometimes the stars don't shine."

 

Tyrian's rest was cut much shorter than expected. He was awakened before dawn the following morning by the sound of shouting from the tower watch points. "To arms!" a guard shouted. "The Imperial Army approaches!"

Both Tyrian and Cassie leapt out of bed and rushed into their clothes. Tyrian's mouth was dry, his pulse pounding hard. He almost couldn't breathe as they rushed the elevator down to the courtyard and then ran across to the closest tower. He took the steps three at a time, his feet barely touching the stone. "Where?" he demanded when he got to the top.

The guard handed over the telescope. "To the north," he said. His face was drawn and his eyes deeply alarmed. It wasn't fear for the Rebellion. It was fear for Lord Tyrian and what he was about to see.

Tyrian looked to the distance and his stomach rolled violently. There were twenty units slowly approaching, and all wore the colors of the High General. At this distance, even with the scope, he couldn't make out who rode at the front. But . . . he knew. "We have half an hour at most," he said, and his voice somehow stayed calm. "Gather the Lower Generals and Professor Matthias. I also want Ewan, Kyle, and Lane. I will meet them at the meeting room."

"Yes, sir!" The guard saluted and hurried down out of the tower. The entire city and castle was waking, soldier and civilian alike beginning to rally and prepare for war.

Tyrian's legs gave out and he sank down onto the ground. Cassie leapt forward and held onto him fiercely, her heart breaking. "Tyrian."

"Why?" His voice broke on the word as he pressed his face to her stomach. "Why, Cassie? Why is this happening? All I wanted . . . all I wanted was to stop the Emperor from destroying our country. Why did Blaine have to get involved?"

A soft lavender light filled the air and Tanelia walked out of it. Her eyes looked dark and sad. "I'm sorry, Tyrian," she said softly. "In the end, this may well be my fault." Her gaze lowered. "Blaine . . . is my twin sister. I am sure you had guessed from my memoirs."

"If Kyle can't blame me for what my mother did, then I can't blame you for your sister."  His hands curled into fists at his side. He was only dimly aware of Cassie's presence as a glowing light inside that he clung onto with all his will. He wanted to scream that any of this had ever happened, but the screams remained locked inside. "She hates you for your eternity."

"And has sought for a million years to have her own. There is nothing good inside her, Tyrian. Too late, I saw that she was evil. She has . . . she has destroyed my happiness as well." Tanelia shook her head slightly. "It matters not what she has done to me. I knew, many years ago, that she would cross the path of the first Kaiten. And I can only say . . . I'm so sorry."

"No." The word was low and forceful. "Do not dare apologize for the evil of your sister. She does not even deserve to be called your kin." He looked up, and his green eyes blazed with a spirit that could not die. "There is nothing but good inside you, Tanelia. I can feel it. You have done everything you could to help me. You did not have to tell me the shame of your family, but you did." He got to his feet carefully. "She will never have a Pure Relic. Not mine, not anyone else's."

"I believe in you," she said simply. "I always have."

He very nearly asked her how the coming battle would play out, but he did not want to make her tell him the one thing he didn't want to hear if it was true. He would give everything he had, fight as hard as he could, and find the strength to accept whatever outcome would occur.

Tanelia took her leave, and Cassie held onto Tyrian. "I'm here," she vowed. "I'm not going anywhere."

"If you weren't here . . ." He didn't need to finish the thought. They both knew what not having her would mean for his sanity.

The Lower Generals, Kyle, Ewan, and Lane had assembled with Matthias and Cherry when Tyrian and Cassie walked in. Without preamble, Matthias said, "As soon as I heard, I had Shots run reconnaissance. High General Southerwind is riding at the front of his army. He commands twenty units, all of which are Special Forces. Two knights, Sir Janus and Sir Juniper, are also riding with General Southerwind. They are considered to be amongst the best of those under his command. They each sub-command ten of the twenty units."

"I've never met them," Tyrian said. "But I do know of them. They're roughly Laia's age. I remember when they joined my father. They were knighted young for extreme acts of bravery and heroism when confronting Foresalia."

"They are indeed formidable," Samantha agreed. "It does not surprise me that they would have come with General Southerwind. What surprises me is that he is even here like this." She shook her head. "Unless he is here to do what I did."

"It's not his style," he said very quietly. "He would not attack us unless he was intent on fighting. If he wanted to join us, there would be no farce. He would have simply shown up at the door and asked to be let in." He laughed, but it was self-mocking and made everyone wince. "Can't imagine where I get that from."

The doors opened and Hawke walked in. Her eyes glittered fiercely in her face. "Lord Tyrian," she said, "every Destined Star that is capable of field combat is joining you in this battle. We are gathering with the troops. All you have to do is tell us what you need us to do and who we are to follow. If you need us as unit leaders, we will do that too. You won't go into this alone."

Tyrian closed his eyes for a moment. "Thank you," he said softly. Their support meant nearly as much as Cassie's did. For the first time, he thought he truly understood why the Kaiten Star needed so many Destined Stars. His eyes opened and he looked at Kyle and Ewan. "You are in command of all sword based combatants. I leave the selection of troops and unit leaders to you. Samantha, I ask that you give them your aid."

"Done," Samantha said instantly.

The three hurried out, and Tyrian turned to Gordon. "You and Hawke will take command of ranged combat. Have Emma and Olan help you select the best archers." His gaze turned to Lane. "Have Verdure and Klint help you select our magical reserves. Rely also on Laia's skill if needed. Marian and Halkern are to have a full unit of Healers if at all possible. Doctor Kelan can ride with them."

"Consider it done." Lane hurried out of the room, his stomach sick with the knowledge of what occurred.

The other Lower Generals were given their orders as well, and Alex was chosen to personally select Tyrian's own troops. Yhalenia and Kotan were already assembling the two monk units, and the three former bandits would be working with them.

Matthias looked at Tyrian and said, "I will ride with you. Cherry will ride with Marian. All of us who can be on that field will be there, Lord Tyrian. I have already requested that Fay be readied for you so your unit can be mounted."

With a deep breath, Tyrian said, "There's nothing more to be done then. Let's get this over with."

 

The High General's army was vastly outnumbered by the total number of troops that the Liberation Army commanded. However, his troops were also much better trained than any except the Destined Stars. As such, Donald was not surprised to see thirty units emerge from the walls of the city and move forward into position. His heart felt heavy, and it had been ever since Blaine's vile order had come to him. Yet under the heaviness came incredible pride as he saw his son riding at the front of the Liberation Army. Tyrian had become a hero among soldiers, and he was every bit deserving of the mantle of Destiny's hero.

With a little smile, Donald touched his Voice Relic. "Hello, Tyrian."

"Hello, Father." Tyrian's voice was calm and unruffled, as it always seemed to be. Donald had always envied and admired his son's absolute serenity. "I admit," Tyrian said, "that I was expecting you sooner. Are you slowing down in your advanced age?"

"Well, being as I am apparently a grandfather now, I suppose I am entitled to my slower speed." He shifted his gaze to the black haired woman who rode beside Tyrian. "Master Cassie," he said, "I could not have asked for a better mate for my son. I find I can't say I am sorry I was not able to meet with you that first day. Watch out for my boy. He's too much like his old man."

Cassie's hand curled around Tyrian's wrist and held on as she sensed the inner shaking inside her lover. "If he is, then it's no wonder he is such an amazing man." She took a breath and urged, "General Southerwind, please. Lay down your arms. Join us. You know that we are not the enemy!"

"I can't." It was the simple truth. He had carefully planned every movement of this battle. He would not let Blaine win. This would be his final gift to his son. Everything was up to Tyrian now. He would save the Empire they loved. "I ask for a battle of skill."

Tyrian's brows lifted and he looked at Matthias. The strategist had a speculative look on his face. "A battle of skill," Matthias said slowly, "is a normal battle, but the intent is not to kill your enemy. Think of it as a unit sized duel. Everything is done the same way, but all soldiers know that they are to disarm, not kill. It matches range to range, mage to mage, and so on. I've never seen one done on this scale, but it is a surefire method of avoiding bloodshed."

"His troops are better trained," Tyrian said quietly. "Doesn't that swing the battle to his favor?"

"Under normal circumstances, I would say yes. But this is hardly normal, Lord Tyrian. I can't put my finger on it, but there is something about General Southerwind that has me on guard. There's something wrong. I can't determine why from this distance. It just feels . . . familiar." He nodded slightly. "General Southerwind," he said to the opposing leader, "we will accept your request. The engagement will be a battle of skill. But do not underestimate us."

"Ewan Grizmar," the black haired male riding beside Donald said, "I would ask that you match your sword against mine."

Ewan grinned. "Night, you up for smacking a knight around?"

"Not nearly as interesting as rogues, but I can be convinced," Night answered sassily.

The brunette on Donald's other side looked at Kyle. "Kyle Raitels, I would have you challenge me."

Kyle smiled. "Very well."

All other units matched up, and the extra ten units of Tyrian's stood by. If one of Tyrian's units was defeated, a unit of matching type could step in. There would be no calling strategy in this battle. The strategy was solely up to the soldiers on the field as they paired off one-by-one. Tyrian took a deep breath and said, "Let the engagement commence."

The battlefield became a cacophony of sound as the fights began. In some places, it was obvious that Tyrian's soldiers and unit leaders were stronger. In others, the favor was for Donald's side. The troops that Tyrian personally commanded pitted directly against the ones that Donald personally commanded. The unit leaders on each side met in the middle. Two lieutenants rode with Donald, and one looked at Matthias. "I yield without lifting a blade as you cannot enter combat."

Matthias inclined his head. "My thanks, lieutenant."

The other lieutenant smiled wryly at Cassie. "I am not so foolish as to engage a Tenth Class monk. I yield, Master Cassie."

Cassie nodded in acceptance, but her gaze remained solely on Tyrian. His face was calm, yet his fingers clenched so hard around the reins that his knuckles had gone white. They knew there was no way Donald would yield. The entire battle would end if either Tyrian or Donald was defeated.

Close up, Matthias felt more certain than ever that there was something wrong with Donald Southerwind. He still couldn't determine what it was, but he knew that the High General was not well. He glanced across the field and saw that Lane's unit stood idle after defeating its opponent. "Lord Lane," he said into his Voice Relic. "I require your knowledge."

Neither Donald nor Tyrian noticed. "Well," Tyrian said. "I suppose it would be foolish to ask for a surrender."

"I trained you better than that." Donald swung down off the back of his horse with the agility of a man half his age. He looked older than he had before, but he still moved like the warrior he was.

It was doubly painful for Tyrian as he dismounted and drew his staff. This close to his father, he did not feel the tug he felt when near a Destined Star. That left Donald's future as one empty slate. It was up to Tyrian to decide the outcome. There was no way for this to miraculously become right.

Donald drew his sword and swung it lightly through the air. "Let's see what you've learned over the last few months." Without waiting for a response, he lunged toward Tyrian on a shout.

This was no quick battle with an easy win. Father and son were almost equally skilled. Tyrian was more powerful magically, but he refused to use the Devourer. Even though they used different types of weapons, it made neither of them more or less lethal. Blood was drawn on both sides when the right strike managed to sneak past a guard.

Slowly, the rest of the battle ended around them. Enough of Tyrian's army had been victorious to be considered the winner, but it was no longer important. Ally and enemy stood side by side as they watched the duel that raged. No one liked what they witnessed. No matter who took a blow, everyone winced.

Tyrian suddenly seemed to take in a surge of extra strength from out of nowhere. He ducked under Donald's guard and slammed his staff into his stomach. The blow sent the older man flying to the dirt and he rolled several feet before stopping. Breathing hard, his eyes burning, Tyrian nearly shouted, "Yield, damn you!"

Donald didn't immediately get up, and when several seconds passed, Matthias said softly, "The engagement is over. Lord Tyrian is the victor."

There was no chance for anyone to cheer. Donald surged to his feet and went after Tyrian once more. A shout rose among the army as they realized Donald had broken the laws. Ewan and Kyle went for their swords but Lane ordered harshly, "Stand down!!"

The discontent flowed through both sides of the field, but no one moved. It was only Liang and Laia holding Cassie back that kept her from leaping forward.

Tyrian didn't notice. He had his hands full trying to fend off Donald. He didn't know what was wrong, what was happening. His father would never break the rules of engagement! It was as if he had deliberately forfeited his life. "Stand down!" he shouted.

Donald didn't respond with words, and his eyes looked fierce and determined. One particularly sharp swing of his sword cut clean through the middle of Tyrian's staff. He kicked the Kaiten in the stomach and sent him tumbling back across the ground. Without any obvious hesitation, he raised his sword and went in for the kill.

The deepest instincts inside Tyrian, the ones that made him survive in the harshest times, rose hotly. Encoded in his very soul was the indomitable spirit of a Kaiten Star, a spirit that above all else would always want to live. His hand closed around the closest half of his staff and he lunged upward just as Donald got close.

The severed end of the staff was a sharp as a blade. It slammed into Donald's stomach and went far enough through that it came out the back. The High General staggered past Tyrian as his sword fell to the ground. His legs gave out and he collapsed onto the dirt as blood began to flow.

Marian's scream of anguish ripped through the field and she tried to shove her way through. Marcus and Di found her and forced soldiers aside to let her run to where Tyrian knelt beside Donald. Liang and Cassie also ran as fast as they could to get to the scene.

Tyrian's face was white, his eyes so dark that the pupils disappeared. Dully, he said, "Why did you do that?" He didn't see Liang or Marian, was only dimly conscious of Cassie's presence. Something inside shook violently. "You forced me to do that. Why?"

Lane knelt beside Marian. "Blaine cursed you," he told Donald. "I could see it from across the field. That's why Matthias thought something was familiar about you. He recognized the way your lifeforce was being bled out. No matter what happened here, Blaine set you up to die."

Donald nodded slightly. There was almost no pain to be felt. There was nothing but relief that it was over. Blaine would not win. "I was going to leave," he admitted softly. "After Beelzebub. But she cursed me. I knew what she wanted. I won't let her have it."

Marcus pulled Marian into his arms and she buried her face against his shoulder as her entire body shook with her sobs. The other Lower Generals had come forward as well, and so had Janus and Juniper. "Why can't I heal him?" Marian wailed into Marcus' shoulder. "It's not in the critical zone! Not my spells, not even my raw magic—why?!"

Magicians and Healers became the magic they commanded. Marian's relics had changed her magic capacity to pure healing force, allowing her to use her raw capacity as another way to heal when her spells alone might not be enough. She had done it before; she and Halkern had both exhausted themselves by using up their capacities in such a way to heal Persephone's family. They could only use their magic within the range of the spells they had unlocked, but Marian had fully unlocked relics and a higher than average capacity. She should have been able to do something!

Lane slowly shook his head. "It's not just the wound he was dealt. His lifeforce is being recalled to Blaine. And there is a lot of life inside him. He was chosen well to be the father of a Kaiten Star. You can't heal lifeforce, Marian, I'm sorry." He looked at Tyrian. "You can stop this. You have to, Tyrian. You know you can't let Blaine have his life energy. You're not killing him. He was dead long before he ever stepped onto this field."

Tyrian's relic hand curled into a fist. "Bring Raven," he said evenly. "She deserves to meet her grandfather. Give me your cloak, Janus." He issued the order without hesitation.

Janus removed his cloak and spread it over Donald to hide the horrid wound. Even with the staff removed, it was a violent reminder of the task Tyrian had been forced to do. He and Juniper knelt side by side. They had been given specific orders, and having met Tyrian, they knew now why. Something told them that they, too, were destined to fight beside this man with the eyes of a hero. Neither could bear the sight of his suffering.

Ewan walked up with Raven in his arms and knelt to put her down. Donald focused on her, and he suddenly found a smile. "No wonder. No wonder Annareal loved her so. She's so much like you, Tyrian."

"Then she's just like her grandfather too." Tyrian took a deep breath. Time was running out. Even he could now feel the energy fleeing Donald's body. Already his legs and lower body were dead. There was no stopping what happened. "I love you," he said softly. "I'm proud to be your son."

"Hell, Tyrian." Donald closed his eyes. "I'm the one who's proud. There was never a day I wasn't proud of you." He grimaced as the numbness encountered his wound and the pain returned with a vengeance. He could now feel his body dying and the fleeing lifeforce was more painful than the wound itself.

"Hurry!" Lane urged Tyrian.

Tyrian's eyes closed and the runic circle opened around his body. The symbol of the Devourer appeared in the air over his head, visible to all who watched. He couldn't stand the idea of sending Donald to Hell, and he had done nothing to deserve Purgatory. His eyes opened suddenly and they had turned solid black. "Effervesce."

Ribbons of green and black power emerged from the symbol of the Devourer and flowed down to consume Donald. A bright glow emerged from his body and began to flow back up the ribbons to the symbol. When there was no more glow to be taken, the symbol and circle disappeared and the ribbons dissolved.

The High General was dead.

"He's smiling," Marian whispered.

Marcus held her tighter. "He's happy," he said roughly. "He died as a general. He gave his life for his people, just as every soldier who joins the army knows he or she might. There is no shame in that. There is no higher honor than dying for your country, or, for us, dying for our Kaiten."

Janus drew his cloak up over Donald's face. "Lord Tyrian," he started quietly, "Juniper and I were given orders contingent on General Southerwind's death. Those orders are to fight by your side. Please accept our vow as knights of the Empire to help you save our country and our people."

"Please also accept our dedication as Destined Stars," Juniper added. "We will fight by your side and give you our strength. If you need anything of us, it is yours." His voice broke and then steadied. He couldn't stand seeing Tyrian so quiet and pale. It was terrifyingly clear how close Tyrian walked to the edge of shattering.

One by one, then more, until it was a wave spreading across the field, soldiers began to kneel in respect for Donald and allegiance for Tyrian. Imperial and Liberation soldier alike, they were united as one. Tyrian slowly lifted his head as the wave spread and he watched as all fifty units on the field gave and re-gave their vow to fight under his flag.

It was too much all at once. Exhaustion came rushing in and he slumped over. He was almost pitifully grateful for the welcoming black of unconsciousness. Cassie caught him quickly and held him cradled in her arms. Tears slid slowly down her cheeks. "Tyrian." She buried her face in his hair and held on tight.

Quietly, Matthias said, "Prepare a hero's burial for General Southerwind. Sir Janus, Sir Juniper, I welcome you as a fellow Destined Star." He looked at Liang. "Can you carry Lord Tyrian?"

"I haven't tried since he was ten," Liang said. It seemed as if he had aged dramatically over the last few hours, with lines appearing at the corner of his eyes and mouth. "But I'm still a bit bigger than he is." It was just enough bigger that he was able to lift Tyrian from the ground to carry him on his back toward the castle. Cassie went with him, and Ewan picked up Raven to follow.

The Lower Generals, minus Marcus, took charge of the new twenty units. Marcus took Marian back to her room and stayed by her side as she suffered through a rage of grief that was both hers and her cousin's. She knew he could not cry, and so she cried for him as well. Why was Destiny so bitterly unfair to a man as wonderful as Tyrian?

The day passed quietly. Tyrian remained asleep while Cassie and Raven stayed near his side. Liang, with Serentia and Tavi's support, selected a space inside the city that would be the perfect place for Donald to be buried. Tavi then, with Yumi, Kami, and Mikey's help, picked out the prettiest stones they could find to be used as a grave marker.

It was several days before Tyrian finally awoke, and when he did, he woke to a pain that was more emotional than physical. It was not even dawn, if the sounds from outside were a clue, and he couldn't move his left arm since both Raven and Cassie were lying on it. He didn't mind. Their presence was welcome and comforting.

After a few minutes, he carefully extracted his arm and got out of bed. It was cold on the balcony since he only wore pajama pants, but he didn't care. He leaned on the rail and looked up at the stars. His burned as steadily as ever, and he could see how the others clustered much closer than usual as if to protect him.

He heard a sound behind him and said softly, "If it is the last thing I ever do, I will personally introduce Blaine to the Devourer Relic. She wants it so badly, I'll be glad to demonstrate its powers."

Cassie stepped up beside him and covered his hand on the rail. Even before he had awakened, she had sensed that the war was no longer about the Rebellion. It had become very personal for Tyrian. "I think if anyone deserves to be devoured," she concurred quietly, "then it would be her. I believe in an eye for an eye, but Laia put it better. 'Let the punishment fit the crime.'"

His fingers tightened on the rail. "A part of me just wants to go straight to Trinan and storm the castle. But I know I can't." He turned to look at her, and the natural intensity inside him seemed to roll off him in waves. "I will not lose. I am going to find my Stars, I'm going to end this war, and I'm going to kill Blaine. She will die by my hand."

"Good." She softly rubbed her relic hand over his with the intent to soothe rather than seduce. "That third spell in the Devourer. It was somehow beautiful to see. You called it Effervesce. Do you know what it means?"

"No."

"According to Zinfandel, to effervesce is to be reborn. While you can say that the spell is as deadly as the rest, how it does it is something else entirely. A mercy killing, perhaps, is a way to view it."

"It's little comfort, but it is some." He let out a long breath. "I've almost never used my spells except for the first time I've gained them; I just use raw magic. I don't think I ever will use them commonly. It needs to be an extreme situation for me to feel justified."

"There's nothing wrong with that, Tyrian." She ducked under his arm and wrapped her own around his waist. "You're a sorcerer, not a Thaumoturge. Same as me. If you were a Thaumoturge, you'd have a different Pure Relic entirely, and a different burden to bear."

He turned and held her closer. His hands skimmed over her back, enjoying the tactile feel of her silk robe and the warm skin beneath. Blaine was slowly taking away the people he loved, but he would never let her lay a hand on any of those that were left.

In a similar vein, Cassie was thinking of how terribly Blaine wanted Tyrian dead. She would stoop to anything to get him and his relic. Nowhere except the castle would ever be safe, not as long as that psychopath was still around. "I will never let her touch you," she vowed softly. "I swear I will die first."

He didn't bother to point out that if she was gone, then he had no reason to continue. He needed that fierce defense. He needed to know she was there to protect him. There were so many other things to think of that his own safety hovered low on the list.

He shivered suddenly and she smiled. "Inside with you." She caught his hand and drew him back into the warmth of the tower room. She shut the balcony doors and curtains and then caught her breath as his hands curled around her waist. The magic in his skin burned and tingled with intent. "Raven's asleep in our bed," she said breathlessly. "You wouldn't dare seduce me with our daughter in the room."

"You'll just have to be very quiet." He pressed his lips to the curve of her neck and tasted her skin. "She won't wake up."

"What if she does?" The protest was getting weaker as his hands and lips set fire to her body. She barely caught a moan as his hands slid up to cup her breasts. "Tyrian."

He lowered her slowly to the floor, needing the life she offered freely. He found salvation in her arms, and he needed it more than air. "She won't wake up," he said huskily as he unwrapped the robe.

Much to her mother's relief, Raven did indeed remain peacefully asleep until well after dawn. By the time she did stir, Tyrian and Cassie were dressed and preparing to go downstairs to meet with the others. She peeked around the corner to watch them put their shoes on and then asked, "Daddy?"

"I'm alright, honey." Tyrian picked her up and rubbed his cheek over her hair. "I'll be fine now. Do you want to come with us?" When she nodded firmly, he put her on her feet. "Then scoot back to your room and get dressed."

"Okay!" A thought occurred to her and she frowned thoughtfully. "Was there a funny noise last night?"

Cassie felt her cheeks heat. "I didn't notice anything."

"Oh. Okay." Raven hurried out of the tower and hopped into the elevator, unconcerned with strange noises since her parents hadn't heard them.

Tyrian's grin looked more than a little wicked as he curled his hand around the back of Cassie's neck. He kissed her hard and hungry and then murmured against her lips, "I told you to be quiet."

"Oh shut up." Despite herself, she found herself smiling. He had a terrible devilish streak, but she wouldn't have changed him at all.

©Stacy J. Garrett. Do not reprint or redistribute without permission.

Chapter 39->

Unraveling Stories - Chapter 37

<-Chapter 36

 

"Reach out; you can touch the stars."

 

Because they had planned ahead for the sixth spot, it was easy for Hiro to fall into the party. He took the point position as they headed into the woods, and it didn't take very long for the others to realize why it was such a good idea to have a guide. The woods looked identical no matter where they went, and the path twisted in a million directions.

It also didn't take very long for the monsters to find them. Tyrian found himself once more in the position of sorcerer, and it greatly amused him. He didn't mind too terribly the role, but he knew his relic was made more for specialized attacks than actually doing general magical damage. Still, with three swordsmen, it made more sense for him to move back in the lineup, even if he only used raw magic instead of the actual spells.

As they finished one set and continued down the path, Ewan noted to Hiro, "You're good, kid."

Indeed, there was no denying Hiro had many skills with a sword. "Skill isn't everything," he said with a wry smile and a shrug. "I think part of my problem is that I'm not very assertive. I prefer to listen rather than take command."

"There's nothing wrong with that," Marian said staunchly. "Being quiet doesn't mean you're not mature!"

Cassie glanced at Tyrian with a smile. "We are who we are because we are what Tyrian needs to support him. So the fact that you are a quiet type means you balance for those with the biggest voices. And I don't mean just Ewan. We have quite a few, hmm, forceful Stars too."

Tyrian thought about Laia and Liang and a few others as well. "Bossy is another word." He stopped walking suddenly and covered his relic hand as he felt a strong presence.

He wasn't the only one to notice. Cassie made the same gesture, and Kyle and Marian looked around. Night was the one who first realized what they had sensed. "There's a mage in the vicinity. A strong one too. But non-elemental; they must have a non-combat relic or two."

Feeling a light tug inside, Tyrian turned off the path and moved deeper into the woods. The trees were much thicker in this area, and it was hard to see clearly where he went. He didn't worry about getting lost. Hiro would easily get them re-sorted again.

To his immense shock, when he pushed between some trees, he found himself looking at a tiny clearing, and in the middle of it lay a baby griffin. The beast reached no higher than his hip, and it was still covered in the soft down of fledgling years. Its paws were proportionately too big, making it both gangly and adorable.

Kyle went for his sword but Tyrian held up a hand. "Hold," he said.

"You don't have a Listening Relic," Cassie reminded him. "You can't know what it is thinking."

"I don't need one." Tyrian walked without fear over to the griffin and knelt down beside it. "Hi," he said softly. He gently rubbed his fingers over the griffin's beak and was rewarded by a sound that blended both purr and trill. "All types," he said. "It really does take all types."

"A griffin is a Destined Star?" Hiro asked incredulously.

"Remind me to tell you about the Kraken in the river," Ewan said dryly.

"Kraken?!"

The griffin clearly seemed to know where it belonged. It very happily rubbed against Tyrian and made its trilling noise. It hopped to its feet and ran around in loping circles before flying into the air and doing a loop. It landed again and sat happily at Tyrian's side like a large dog might. "You've been claimed," Kyle said warmly. "Griffins are very possessive of their prides and all members within."

"Her name is Xero."

The soft feminine voice surprised all except Tyrian. He had sensed her presence as soon as he had gotten close. "Come out," he said softly. He looked toward the trees and held out a hand. "It's alright," he coaxed. "You know I won't harm you."

A slender figure stepped out of the trees but clung close to their sheltering branches. If she was over thirteen, it wasn't by very much. She was a lovely young girl, and the presence of canine ears and a fluffy tail were distinct traits marking her as at least half-Mongra. The tail, her ears, and her hair had the same cobalt blue color as her doe-shaped eyes. She had a relatively Human-like appearance otherwise, which came as no surprise. Fliers, Mongra, and Grimalkin—the avian, canine, and feline races in the world—could be more or less Human in appearance depending on their personal genetics, even among full-bloods. Hazards of many, many millennia of cross-breeding.

The presence of durable shorts and a sleeveless tunic seemed to indicate she lived in the woods. On her right hand was a Listening Relic. On her left was a Voice Relic. She clung to the trees, and her legs trembled with visible fear. "Are you taking Xero with you?" she whispered.

Tyrian stepped closer slowly as if approaching a wild animal. It broke his heart that she would be afraid of them. It didn't take his insight to guess she had been abused and run away. "You can come with her," he offered gently. "What's your name?"

"Lupe." She looked at his hand with a combination of longing and fear. She could feel that he wouldn't hurt her. He would be there to protect her, and she could protect him. She just somehow knew that he needed her. But it was so scary! "Are . . . are you Imperial soldiers?"

Ewan bit back a particularly violent oath so that he didn't alarm Lupe further. His hands curled into fists at his side, and he was barely aware of both Cassie and Marian grabbing his wrists. If he found out which soldiers had traumatized this puppy, he would bust heads.

"No," Tyrian told Lupe. "We're from the Liberation Army. We're trying to save the Empire." He was close enough to touch her, but all he did was kneel down to be less of an imposing figure. "My name is Tyrian," he told her. "I swear on the relic I wear that you will always be safe at Aon Castle. The monk is Cassie. The Healer is Marian. The blond is Kyle. The slender swordsman is Hiro. And the big guy is Ewan. He's not as scary as he looks. He loves kids. How old are you, Lupe?"

"Fourteen." In a soft rush of breath she said, "Please take me with you! I won't take up a lot of space! I can be in the convoy for now, can't I? Xero and I. We won't get in the way!" She shook her head and her thick hair flew around her face. Her eyes looked wide and distressed. "Just don't sell me!"

"Sell . . ." He choked on the words, horrified at the very idea. Very, very softly, he asked, "Who tried to sell you, Lupe?"

The intensity in him was suddenly palpable, but it didn't frighten her. If anything, it began to reassure her. "I was orphaned in Foresalia," she said softly. "The Imperial Army brought me home as a slave. But I wasn't useful. They were going to sell me back to Foresalia as . . . as some sort of bargaining chip."

Ewan and Kyle both walked away in different directions. They were quiet, but Cassie's hearing had enhanced thanks to her relic and she heard them both quite clearly. She also learned several new ways to use words she had already known. She hardly blamed them. Her hands fisted over her stomach as if to combat the knot of sheer fury inside. Incidents like the one Lupe described were incredibly rare across the world as a whole, but they did happen. If word reached the monks about such a thing, someone would be dispatched to free the one in captivity.

Fiercely, Marian burst out, "You would never be sold, Lupe! Tyrian loves his Destined Stars, and I know you have to be one! You can come to the castle and everyone will love you, too! When the war is over, you'll be able to choose your own destiny!"

Xero trilled fiercely and butted against Tyrian. She then flapped her wings and butted Lupe. The young mage took a quick breath and said, "She says that you have a beautiful heart. That you couldn't hurt anyone at all. And she says . . . says that you need us. So please take us with you."

Tyrian held out his hand and hers cautiously settled onto his palm. She was a foot and a half shorter than he was, and a great deal smaller with it. The back of her hand from her lower knuckles and her lower arms to her elbows were covered in the same soft fur as her tail and ears. He curled his hand around hers gently, and the white star appeared on her shoulder as well as Xero's wing. "There," he said. "Now you know you belong."

She hesitated and then hugged him around the neck tightly. He hugged her back gently and got to his feet. There was something so pure, so beautiful about Lupe's heart that he had no doubt the entire castle would love her instantly. Her ability to communicate with animals and beasts would also be very useful.

Ewan and Kyle had rejoined them, and though both found real smiles for Lupe, it was fairly obvious both were still very pissed off. Tyrian counted himself exceedingly lucky that it was only Ewan who got loud and violent. Kyle got quiet, and then he got revenge.

Lupe clung close to Tyrian's side, staying just behind him so he was free to attack anything that came after them. Xero flew beside Lupe though she occasionally landed and walked as well. Hiro once more took point, and they continued through the woods. The going proved much easier this time; the monsters recognized Lupe and diverted rather than attack.

They didn't bother to stop and camp when night fell. A lantern gave them plenty of light to see by, and none of them felt excessively tired. There were also thoughts of Tandy as well. Not as much her safety as Vincent's, though. Unless the general had been talking fast, there was no doubt that he would be the one worse the wear for snagging the temperamental dagger thrower.

"Temperaments and projectiles." Kyle shook his head wryly. "If that ever gets combined with someone who can also use a sword, I'll be hiding in a bunker."

They reached the edge of the woods just as dawn arrived and they could see the city line. As expected, the soldiers in Vincent's eight units were not actually standing guard anywhere. There was no need for it, frankly: the two parts of the woods provided plenty of protection. But the soldiers were still visible as they wandered around. All of them either helped citizens or oversaw reconstruction.

"Is it just me," Marian whispered, "or did they jump the gun, as Shots would say? This looks like what happens after we've freed a city!"

"For all intents and purposes," Cassie whispered back, "we have. With no worry for the Imperial Army getting in here, General Martine was free to capitalize on the events of other checkpoints. He's had plenty of time to gain the trust of the people and prove he isn't a bad guy."

"I wonder where he's holding Tandy," Hiro said softly.

Rather suddenly, they all heard a familiar voice yell, "That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard! Couldn't you have come up with something smarter than this? Why me!? Ooh! I'm going to stab you! My boyfriend's going to kill you!"

Ewan barely muffled a snort of laughter as he clapped a resigned Hiro on the back. "Her confidence in you is heartwarming."

"At least we found her," Cassie said dryly.

"Bloody hell!" a man was heard saying in distinct exasperation as he walked out of a building not far away. Marian, Tyrian, and Cassie recognized him as being the general they sought. His short hair looked slightly frazzled, and the reason why was explained when he raked his hands through it and mussed the locks more. "I just had to grab the fireball," he muttered loudly.

"I heard that!" Tandy yelped from inside the building. "Untie me!"

Vincent Martine eyed the building with rueful and reluctant amusement. He had grabbed her because he had seen her talking to Tyrian. He hadn't quite expected to discover that she had a temperament fierier than a volcano and just about as unpredictable too. He had tried to explain the situation, but she wasn't listening.

When he saw the party approaching him, he was relieved for more than the simple fact of freeing the city. Even with his soldiers working quickly, the people knew that they were still technically under Imperial control, and at any given time, Vincent could be yanked and replaced. Morale was higher than when he had arrived, but not by much. He walked forward a few steps and smiled. "Greetings, Lord Tyrian."

"Greetings, General Martine." Tyrian smiled wryly. "I believe you bit off more than you can chew."

"Tyrian!" Tandy shouted as she recognized his voice. "Get me out of here!"

Vincent winced. "You may be right, Lord Tyrian." He swept his gaze over those present and recognized all except the griffin and the girl. The slim swordsman was familiar from the Commune. "You are Hiro, correct?" he asked. "Your taste is . . . interesting."

Hiro lifted his chin, his courage bolstered by the way Kyle and Ewan moved to stand behind him. He knew they trusted him. "There's a match for everyone. Tandy is mine." He drew his sword and took an offensive stance. "I swore by my sword to defend her. Draw your weapon and fight me!"

Inside the house, Tandy's jaw dropped. Was that her Hiro out there? He was challenging the general on her behalf?!

Vincent studied Hiro for long moments and then drew his sword as a little smile tugged at his lips. He had been friends with Samantha for many years. He knew the intricacies of the Commune of Soldiers as well as a member did. "If I decided to let her go without a fight," he asked mildly, "would you stay your blade?"

"No."

"Don't throw the fight," Kyle warned Vincent. "Don't shame Hiro's duty as Tandy's sworn defender."

Lupe ducked behind Ewan to avoid watching the fight. Cassie and Marian moved back a few steps with Tyrian and Kyle to remove themselves from any flying sparks. Xero sat at Ewan's side, her ears back. If she didn't like the outcome, someone would get bitten!

The duel began, and Vincent realized very swiftly that there was no need to throw the fight. Hiro was damned good. His smaller frame gave him an added agility that made up for his slightly lesser strength. It was only slightly, though; he swung a sword almost as hard as Samantha did.

It took only a handful of minutes before Hiro managed to disarm Vincent, though it was a very tense few minutes. Both men bore the wounds of strikes that had gotten through defenses. Hiro aimed the tip of his sword at the general's neck and said, "Yield or die." His blue eyes sharpened like shards of glass.

"Yield," Vincent said. He held out a key. "Free your lover. She might go for my eyes."

Hiro snatched the key out of his hand and ran into the house quickly. Vincent only then winced and pressed a hand to his ribs where Hiro's foot had landed. "Damn, that kid is good. Why hasn't he named his sword yet?"

Marian hurried forward to heal him, and Tyrian said, "He is not yet an adult in the eyes of the Commune. Hopefully, that will change now." He stepped forward and lifted his chin slightly. His green eyes glittered fiercely and made him look every inch the hero that he was. "We can consider his win as my win, or you can now engage me in a duel, General Martine. You blatantly challenged me to find you. I did. It's your move."

Vincent held up his hands. "Yield, Lord Tyrian," he said softly. "You know I could never raise a weapon against you." He pressed his hand to his heart and bowed gracefully. "Please accept my dedicated service as a Destined Star." He blew out a quick breath. "And thank you for making sense of everything."

"Yay Tyrian!" Tandy had come out of nowhere and jumped and hugged Tyrian happily. "You have all the checkpoints!"

Tyrian actually staggered a step when that sank in. The enormity of what he had done simply boggled his mind. He controlled all four checkpoints. He controlled nearly all cities of the Empire. He could lay claim to an army of nearly one hundred units—one hundred thousand solders. He had eighty-one out of one hundred and nine Destined Stars.

That he would find twenty-eight Stars in the final two cities was an impossibility. A part of him feared he might have missed someone. A bigger part was afraid that this meant the war was not nearly as close to being completed as he thought.

Tandy released him and frowned. "Tyrian?"

Cassie moved to take Tyrian's arm. "He's fine," she said softly. "Go into the city. We'll meet you there." She waited until the footsteps had faded before framing Tyrian's face with her hands. "Tyrian?"

His eyes focused on her. "I just . . . it just hit me. What I've done. What I've yet to do. I can't shake the feeling, Cassie. Something terrible is about to happen. I can't be close to winning when I've got so many other Destined Stars to find. We still don't have the rest of the Kaiten legend, and Kell still can't find anything on Blaine. I just . . . there are too many questions left. I wanted it to be over. But even saying there are only three cities left including Trinan . . . it's not over."

"No it isn't," she agreed readily. "But, Tyrian, stop thinking about how long it has to go. Look at how fast it's gone. It hasn't yet been a year, and we've come so far." She went on her toes and kissed him softly, lingering until the tension fled his body and his hands curled around her waist. "I'm here," she promised. "I won't let you break."

He let out a long breath and rested his forehead against hers. There was nothing in his world that was as important as Cassie and Raven. If they had needed it from him, he would have walked away from this burden without hesitation. But then, perhaps that was the very reason they stood there beside him. "I'll be fine," he said softly. He kissed her tenderly and then teasingly nipped at her lower lip. "Monks are indeed lethal," he added huskily.

Her lips curved. "You better believe it."

By the time they caught up with the others, they had already gotten to the inn. Lupe was very nervous of all the people coming and going, and she stayed hidden behind Ewan. If his posture was any indication, only a real idiot would try to get to the little Mongra. Kyle and Marian sat at a table with Vincent, and Hiro attempted to keep Tandy from arguing with the innkeeper. Xero tried to help too; she had a beak full of Tandy's skirt and kept tugging.

"I've notified my troops," Vincent told Tyrian. "They stand by you as well. The mayor is on his way to speak with you about the city militia holding down the fort, so to speak. And I believe that the Commune leader is on his way as well."

Hiro grimaced. "I'm doomed."

"You are not!" Tandy grabbed onto his arm and scowled at him. "You were amazing, Hiro! And I know that Kyle and Ewan and Tyrian will completely stand by what you did! You didn't even hesitate to take up arms against a guy bigger and older than you!"

"Not sure I like the older part," Vincent grumbled. He glanced at the door as two Magicians hurried in, and he smiled. "You're late."

"Sorry!" The female smiled, and her pale brown eyes sparkled. A cap of auburn hair was cut close around her lively features. On her hip rested a heavy-duty wand with a crystal at the top. One hand bore a Fire Relic. The other bore a Light Relic. The second was known mostly for its ability to give light, but it could also produce powerful attacks. "Klint and I were tangled up with trying to figure out why we can't get that one house back onto its foundation."

Her brother—he had to be related considering they shared matching coloring—sighed. He was dressed in a similar fashion to his sister, and his right hand had a Water Relic while the left had a Dark Relic. Its presence alone indicated he was skilled; few could successfully equip a Dark Relic. "Kris tried everything she could, but it won't budge."

"Hmm. It may need to be rebuilt from scratch." Vincent gestured to Tyrian. "Kris, Klint, meet Tyrian Southerwind. Lord Tyrian, allow me to introduce you to two of my unit leaders. They're the best Magicians I have."

Kris looked at Tyrian curiously, having been wondering all along just what sort of person he was. What she saw looked somehow familiar. She just felt as if she had always intended to meet him. Having heard about all the goings-on, she suspected she knew just what the surprising punch of emotion inside meant. "I think we've met."

"I think you're right," Tyrian agreed. "I would ask that you and Klint lend me your strength not just for Vincent, but for me as well. I can't do this without you two. My magical troops are limited for skilled unit leaders."

"You can count on us!" Klint said fiercely. "We won't let you down, Lord Tyrian!"

A sudden commotion at the door had everyone turning to see a swordsman arguing quite loudly with a soldier. "Where is my daughter?" he demanded in a near roar. "Kidnapped! I'll have the head of whoever did it!"

Very blandly, Kyle said to Hiro, "So it's genetic? You have my future sympathies."

"Daddy!" Tandy said in exasperation. "I'm right here and I'm fine! Hiro saved me! Didn't he, Lord Tyrian?" She looked at Tyrian pleadingly as her father stormed into the inn, hoping he would help Hiro stand up to her father.

To her surprise, however, Hiro took a step forward and said, "I battled Vincent Martine to retrieve Tandy. I swore by my sword to defend her, and I did so. Whether you think I should have or not, I don't particularly care. Nothing will stop me from being by her side."

"You can't marry her," the Commune leader reminded him. "You're not an adult."

"So be it. If she wants me, I am still hers. I'll court her for however long it takes until I can marry her." He looked at Tandy and found himself smiling at the way her mouth hung open. It happened very rarely that she was speechless. "Would you be happy with that, Tandy?" he asked her.

Her response was to jump into his arms and knock him onto his ass. Wildly happy, she kissed him in front of everyone. All she had ever wanted was for the silly man to just let her make the choice. She would wait forever for him. If it was for Hiro, she could learn patience.

"I think that was a yes," Ewan said with a grin.

"So it would seem." A tiny smile tugged at the Commune leader's lips. "Hiro?" When the young man looked up at him, the leader said, "You have shown bravery, skill, and maturity all within the space of a few hours. You prove yourself an adult, not a child, in your words and manner alike, and as is my right as your instructor, I declare you to be a full adult with the right to name your sword and walk the world with the respect you deserve."

Shy Lupe let out a happy cheer and then hastily covered her mouth. Ewan just laughed and ruffled her hair. "I couldn't have said it better myself, pup!"

Calling a Mongra a pup or puppy was no different from calling one a kid. It could be endearment or insult. Lupe knew full well that Ewan meant it as an endearment. He had a very beautiful heart beneath his gruff exterior.

"When are you going to marry me?" Tandy demanded of Hiro.

"Soon enough," he managed to say. Shock was written all over his face. "I . . . I was not expecting that."

"You never are," Kyle said simply. "It's why we have instructors, Hiro. They see much clearer than we do when we hit that invisible point where we are an adult. I've often thought maybe that point happens when we're not looking for it, rather like finding love."

"Yeah. Wow."

"What're you going to name your sword?" Tandy asked eagerly. "We can go get it engraved!" Her heart skipped a beat and her pulse fluttered as he gave her one of those looks that made her feel as if she was the only woman in his world. His eyes were so unfair. "Hiro?" It dawned on her, and her lips trembled. "You wouldn't."

"I've planned for it since we were five," he said simply. "My sword will be named Tandy, just like the woman I love."

Tyrian rested a hand on Kyle's shoulder in silent support. The blond swordsman said nothing, but he did cover Tyrian's hand with his own. He focused only on his happiness for Hiro and Tandy. The pain seemed to lessen a little more every day as he found new reasons to smile and live.

The mayor arrived only moments later and was more than happy to sit down with Vincent and Tyrian. While they conferred, Hiro and Tandy went to find the Weaponsmith in town so that he could get his sword engraved. Kris and Klint went along to show the way. Ewan and Kyle went to meet up with the Liberation Army unit that was transporting in. As soon as Vincent had yielded, Kyle had sent the beacon signal to the castle.

One hour later, Tyrian held up the Echo Mirror. Most everyone was going back with the units, but Lupe, Xero, Cassie, and Marian had stayed with Tyrian. Deltine was officially liberated now, and the flag of the Liberation Army flew high from the tops of the towers and buildings. All militia soldiers now wore Tyrian's colors as well.

When they arrived back at the castle, Tyrian was surprised to find Merlot waiting for him. "Merlot, is something wrong?"

"We don't know, but we found some writings of Lady Tanelia's," Merlot explained. "It might have some information that you can use. We skimmed through it, but we didn't read it, and we're not sure what's in it. We thought you should be the first to look inside."

Tyrian nodded. "I'm on my way. Marian, can you take Lupe to get a room? Xero can go with her; she's not too big to be in the castle." He smiled when Xero chirped. He didn't need a Listening Relic to understand his Stars. "You're welcome."

Lupe was happy to go with Marian, and Cassie followed Tyrian as he pointedly headed for the Belowgrounds where the Library had been placed. Merlot and Zinfandel were working on filling the shelves with their copies of books, but there were still stacks all over the place, and it was even more of a disaster than usual with the recent search.

"Where did you find it?" Tyrian asked as he walked in.

"In the history section, of all places." Zinfandel shook her head as she put the slim twilight colored book down on a table. "It belatedly makes sense. I mean, Lady Tanelia lived through history, so her memoirs could be taken as fact."

Tyrian lightly ran a finger over the embossed lettering on the front of the book. It was truly a beautiful volume. Whoever had bound the writings had done it with a great deal of respect for Lady Tanelia. With a little breath, he sat down and opened the book. He was aware of Cassie's presence as she stood behind him, and he felt grateful for the way her hands rested on his shoulders.

The first few pages detailed the legend of the mirror in the sky. Tanelia had been there to see it happen. Awe filled him as he realized that rumor was right. Tanelia was over one million years old. Her Pure Time Relic was the first Pure Relic to exist. She was the oldest living being . . . and she was alone. It broke his heart.

The next few pages detailed the reactions of her town and family. A little shiver went down his back.

My sister . . . my sister was not happy. She felt that she should have received a gift from the gods too.

The sudden suspicion inside him was horrible to think, and should have been impossible to be true. But . . . it would make sense of everything. He needed to ask Tanelia.

Her prophecy of the Kaiten Stars was written down as well, but he suddenly didn't have any desire to read it. He closed the book. "I'll wait," he said. "Reading this now is just going to agitate me. I know it. I can barely think about my war, let alone future wars for future Kaitens. When this is done . . . then I'll read it. I have to focus on now."

"We'll put the book somewhere safe," Merlot promised. "Did it have anything useful though?"

"It might have," Tyrian said softly. He looked up at Cassie. "We need to find Lane and ask him how to contact Lady Tanelia. I have some questions for her. She might very well know exactly what is going on and who Blaine is."

Cassie shook her head. "It's mid-morning and you haven't slept in nearly twenty-four hours. You're going to eat something and get some rest. We're back into the planning stages. Our next stop is Pardue. Matthias and Cherry can start the process without you."

He stood with a frown. "But . . ."

"But nothing!" She began to haul him along behind her as she headed out of the library. "They can wait until tomorrow morning." She pointedly rubbed her thumb over the mark of his relic and watched his eyes darken with intense hunger that seemed to only get stronger as time passed. It was a blatant seduction, but she had no qualms about using every weapon at her disposal to make her lover take the breaks he needed in order to survive the coming days.

As her fingers lightly skimmed the mark again, he snatched her up into his arms with a speed that made her pulse happily flutter. "You've convinced me," he said, his voice husky as he headed back to ground level and carried her toward the castle and their tower. "You, my lady monk, are a tease. You won't always get your way by seducing me."

Her lips curved. "No, but I will most of the time." She nipped at his jaw. "The rest of the time, you can have your way by seducing me. Fair enough?"

He could find nothing to argue with about that. Who would have thought bargaining with someone as stubborn as he was, and losing, would be so rewarding in the end?

 

©Stacy J. Garrett. Do not reprint or redistribute without permission.

Chapter 38->