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Another Roll of the Dice

by Storm Wolf77415 and Centurious the Azure

Chapter Six: The Dance of the Flame Princess

     Now back on the road, Master Ka-Fai threw Rean’s training into high gear. It was time to bring the beast within to heel. It had taken everything to open the locks on the ghastly power lurking within Rean’s soul, but this was one of the main reasons he came back in the first place. Despite having used it in the past, it had always been tentative for him, a part of him holding back lest he went on some bloody rampage like when he was a child.

     Rean knew he couldn’t run away from it anymore. He needed every advantage he could get, and his fear couldn’t rule him going forward. He already knew the Spirit Unification technique that allowed him to make use of his power. It was an existing move within the Eight Leaves that allowed the user to draw out their hidden strength, but his ogre power made it even more potent. He knew his life had meaning thanks to his bonds with his classmates, and that would help him keep control. 

     Fie showed genuine surprise the first time Rean’s hair went white, and his eyes turned a harsh red with the sinister aura flowing around her. But the Princess of the West Wind quickly took it in stride. She seemed to relish the fresh challenge before her. The two were now engaged in a heated sparring match. Amazingly, Rean kept up with her, granted she was still faster without him using Gale, but the bizarre power given to him turned all of his abilities up to max, and his natural speed allowed him to keep stride.

     Ashen Void and her twin gun daggers, collectively known as Avenger, met in a clang of steel. She backflipped out of the way to avoid Rean’s upward slash. “Hah!” She cried out, letting out a quick salvo of bullets. But the future Ashen Chevalier was already on the move, a crimson ribbon trailed behind him as he let the unnatural power flow through every fiber of his being. He couldn’t deny it was a powerful asset in combat, as such the bullet hit nothing except some poor unfortunate dust particles.

     “Flame Impact!” Ezra would have been jealous to see the flames spread over the full length of Ashen Void as Rean swung downward, throwing out an inferno in all directions. A slight glint through the smoke caught his eye. Rean turned away, throwing up his empty hand to protect himself as the flashbang Fie had sneakily dropped on her way out went off. Despite shielding himself from the living light, the sound of the blast made his ears ring. But he managed to keep his thoughts to himself, seeing Fie coming in for a massive backhand strike.

     Rean snapped to, quickly sheathing his tachi, making it seem he was going to try for a Crimson Slash. Fie adjusted her body in his air, but the red-hued projectile never came. Instead, Rean stood his ground, calculating when she would be in range, and unleashed Morning Moon, the powerful battojutsu strike flashing brighter than Fie expected. She brought up both Avengers to defend. The familiar ring of steel resonated across the country road. Fie landed in a crouch, and Rean sensed the end was coming.

     He settled in for an Autumn Leaf Cutter. Rean’s muscles tensed as he made to finish the duel. Fie was still struggling to her feet when he made his move. Rean had almost closed the distance when a painful sensation ripped through him. “Damn it, not now!” He growled, tripping over his own two feet. Fie backflipped out of the way, and Ashen Void struck dirt. A flying side kick to the back sent him sprawling to the ground.

     By the time he cleared the cobwebs, Rean slumped to see Avenger pointing at his throat. “Bang, you’re dead.” Fie deadpanned, before sheathing her weapons and helping him up. “So how long was that?” The two looked to Master Ka-Fai, impassively perched on a rock, holding a stopwatch.

     “Four minutes, twenty-eight seconds. That’s the longest you’ve maintained your ogre state yet. A vast improvement over the scant few moments you held it during our earlier training sessions.” The Sword Hermit drawled as they both walked to him. He knocked back some of his sake. “Of course, back then, you were so afraid of it, I wasn’t surprised at your lack of control. But you’re still faltering, Rean. Can I assume you haven’t fully shed your fear of losing control?”

     He didn’t say anything for a few seconds because he knew the old swordsman was right, so Rean just nodded. “I think that’s an accurate statement, Master. It’s not a problem at first, my mind is clear, and I have a handle on it. But then I feel like I’m being pushed closer and closer to the edge of this void of unending darkness that just consumes me whole the longer the battle drags on.” Rean shuddered all over. “And then I’m standing back in that forest, covered in blood.”

     Yun simply stood up to rest a hand on his apprentice’s shoulder. “And that’s the reason we are out here.” He said gently. “Eventually, you will be comfortable enough with this power, but it doesn’t need to be in a day.” He then looked to Fie with approval. “And Rutger trained you very well, little fairy. He would be quite proud of you.” Fie gave a rare half smile. She didn’t do it very often, but it was a pleasant sight.

     “So where are we going next?” Fie asked as they settled down for lunch. She had reacted to Rean’s story about how he expected. She was a hardened jaeger, and the idea of traveling through time was just another day at the office for her. She had become distant upon learning of Rutger and, by extension, Zephyr’s fate. Although hearing how Class VII had become the family that filled the void in her heart gave her some hope.

     “Bareahard, the city of nobles. Jusis’s family runs the place, and it’ll be nice to see him again.” Rean really was eager to see the scion of the Albarea family once more. Despite his rather aloof demeanor at times, Jusis’s iron-clad belief in noblesse oblige ensured that anyone he considered a friend, or ally would have him standing at their side, no matter what. “The question is, how do we get an audience with him? Duke Albarea has a reputation for being a very cold individual so I can’t imagine we can just waltz up to the front door and ask Jusis to come out and play.”

     “But aren’t you a noble like them?” Fie asked, taking a bite out of the sandwich she had bought in the last town they stopped in. “Shouldn’t that be enough to get you some face time with this Jusis guy or whatever?”

     “It’s not that simple, Fie. While my father may be a nobleman, he’s not exactly the most involved with the major families or the Noble Faction in general. He’s something of an outcast, really.” But then something occurred to Rean, a possibility he hadn’t considered initially. “Although, now that I think about it. Jusis’s uncle runs a restaurant in the town square. Maybe we can run into him there?”

     “It sounds like a decent enough start,” Yun commented, drinking his ever-present sake. “At the rate we’re going, we should reach Bareahard in a couple more days.” He sipped a bit more. “We can probably get in a couple more sessions in on training your ogre power.” Rean groaned inwardly, knowing what that meant. Perhaps his master would save him the trouble and just ball kick him over the horizon. Often, that’s what training with the Sword Hermit felt like at times.

(July 2nd, S. 1203, Bareahard, Kreuzen Province)

     The city was much as Rean remembered from their second field study. Classic architecture with roofs all adorned with those brilliant green shingles, giving Bareahard its nickname as the Verdant City. It was a city nearly untouched by time. All three stood in the central square, looking up at the cathedral, the graceful spires elegantly brushing up against the sky. Master Ka-Fai bought Fie a new outfit, stating her Zephyr uniform would draw unwanted attention.

     Fie got to pick it, going for an oversized dark green t-shirt and khaki cargo shorts with green Strega sneakers. She pushed up the brown flat cap she had also picked up. “Wow, look at all the fancy pants types. Can’t say I’m impressed with all the ruffles and frills though.” Fie quipped, noting the people milling about. She really wondered how the noblewomen could stand moving in those dresses with all the layers of fabric. “I guess if you have money to throw around, then you can get all the expensive clothes you want, but it could have probably gone to something more productive.”

     “Bareahard is a city of nobles, as such, they’re very protective of their traditions. If they want to show off their wealth, then they can do that.” Rean noted the way they all moved, their noses in the air with an inflated sense of entitlement. “But that’s not to say Bareahard doesn’t have a dark side.” He muttered. “And it all goes back to Jusis’s father!”

     Yun knocked back some sake, purposefully letting out a disruptive belch that earned him more than a few annoyed eyes, not the Sword Hermit cared about such things. “I’ve heard plenty of things about Helmut Albarea myself, none of it pleasant for casual conversation either. The man especially enjoys severely taxing the citizens of this province and skimming off the top.” Rean said nothing; it definitely tracked.

     “Oh, trust me, that’s the least of his crimes.” Rean’s fist clenched at the memory of Celdic. He took a moment to calm himself; none of that had happened yet, and if he could avoid it, then so much the better. “But let’s try and look for Jusis first.” He indicated to the restaurant right near the church. “That’s Sorciere, his uncle’s establishment. Maybe he can point us in the right direction, not to mention get us a good meal out of it.”  

     Sorciere was a very classy establishment. It had two stories, with the upper loft being reserved for the nobility. Not that Rean and Fie cared about that right now. They were both more interested in the inviting odor coming from the grill. A tall man in traditional chef’s attire, including the tall white hat, stood at the counter. “That’s Jusis’s uncle,” Rean said quietly. “I don’t remember his name, but if anyone knows where Jusis is, then he will.”

     “Then let’s get something to eat, then. I don’t know about you but I’m famished.” Master Ka-Fai said. “I suppose we should give the man our patronage.” Rean wasn’t about to argue, nor was Fie, who was far too used to field rations and the stuff served in the mess tent. Some high-level cuisine would be a rare treat. “Good afternoon to you, sir!” The aging master said to the chef. “I trust you’re well today, and it just so happens the three of us are very hungry and in dire need of a meal. Perhaps you can oblige us?”

     The chef grunted and gave a slight incline of his head. “You’ve come to the right place, then. I’m Hammond, the head chef and owner of this establishment. Take a seat and we’ll get you some menus.” The trio quickly found a table in the corner of the room; it allowed them an unhindered view of the restaurant. Rean was scoping the place, looking for someone in particular. He didn’t have to search for long. Rean really couldn’t help but grin, rather than be in the exclusive nobles’ area. Jusis sat in the main area with the common folk, eating like any other person.

     He was wearing attire similar to what he recalled after the war started: a dark blue pin-striped vest covering a white button-up shirt with a dark cravat, dark pants, and tan riding boots. A long green jacket was draped over the neighboring chair. Rean noticed how relaxed Jusis looked, clearly enjoying the meal before him.

     “Is that him?” Fie leaned in, a light smirk on her face at the sight of Jusis’s face covered in red sauce. “He looks really enthused with the noodles. I figure someone like him would have more presence of mind to wash his face.”

     “Yeah, that’s him, and he should. The recipe came from his mother.” Rean replied, doing his best to stifle his own grin. He was going to enjoy this way more than he should. He took a deep breath, getting up from the table. Yun just raised his mug in salute to his student. Rean approached Jusis’s table. “Pardon me.” He said in his most confident voice. “You’re Jusis Albarea?” The blonde nobleman paused mid-bite. There was a look of irritation on his face that seemed diminished by the sauce still lingering on his face.

     “Depends on who’s asking.” It was the same smooth, refined voice he knew so well, and despite the tone of feigned disinterest, those ice blue eyes told another story entirely. They radiated quiet authority and a will to use it if Jusis felt it was required. “Is it really so important to disrupt my meal?” Rean didn’t falter, trying not to laugh as he held a closed fist to his mouth. “What’s so funny?” Jusis glared slightly.

     “Uh, you still have sauce on your face, Jusis, you might want to clean it up.” An irritated grunt escaped the young noble’s lips as he grabbed the napkin and wiped off his face. One last snort came from the Ashen Awakener before he regained his composure. “Pardon me, formal introductions are in order. My name is Rean Schwarzer, and I come from the Barony of Ymir. I believe your older brother knows my dad.”

     Jusis thought about this for a minute before it registered in his mind. “Of course, Rufus did mention Baron Schwarzer. He learned falconry from him, correct?” Rean nodded.

     “Your brother mentioned you quite a bit and suggested that if I ever found myself in Bareahard, I should look you up.” Rean sat down across from Jusis. “I’m actually here training with my master, and thought it would be a good idea to find someone who knows the town really well. I thought of you, and here we are.” The scion of House Albarea gave Rean a skeptical look. Jusis wasn’t wholly convinced of his story.

     Before Jusis could give a reply, there was a commotion outside. The boys sprang up from the table, quickly joined by Fie. While Master Ka-Fai brought up the rear at a much more sedate pace. Rean’s hand was on his sword, as was Jusis, and Fie already had Avenger in hand but their urgency died when they got outside. A crowd had gathered in the square, but there didn’t appear to be any kind of immediate danger. Weapons were sheathed as they pushed their way to the front of the crowd.

     Some people stepped back at the sight of Jusis, acknowledging him with slight nods and faint whispers of “Lord Albarea.” Jusis himself looked annoyed and just gave a mild wave of his hand to dismiss them. But now Rean and his friends had a full view of the square. It had been cordoned off, and what appeared to be a small tent was set up as an impromptu dressing room in one corner. A small orchestra was preparing its instruments. A series of lit torches were also set around the perimeter.

     “Just what is all this?” Jusis asked one woman, holding an expensive orbal camera.

     “Oh, you don’t know?” She replied. “Arc-en-Ciel is putting on a surprise performance! Apparently, the troupe has a new star and they want to promote her some, so they’re doing a limited tour through the area and this is their first stop.” This immediately got Rean’s attention, for he knew all too well who the new star of Arc En Ciel was. He had fought her long ago, and Rixia Mao moved with the smooth precision and grace only a dancer possessed. A part of him was rather excited at the prospect of seeing her debut.

     An older man wearing a dark purple tuxedo came out holding a microphone. “Greetings to the people of Bareahard! We are Arc En Ciel, and it’s a great pleasure to be in your magnificent city!” A cheer went up from the crowd. The master of ceremonies raised a hand to quiet them. “Today is a special day indeed, for you all have the distinct honor and pleasure of bearing witness to Arc-En-Ciel’s newest attraction! It’s something of a homecoming for her, because she’s a daughter of Erebonia herself!”

     Rean’s eyes widened, and his jaw dropped at that utterance. Rixia was from Calvard, not Erebonia! His confusion was answered by the woman coming out of the dressing tent. She was most assuredly NOT Rixia. This girl had hair the color of magnificent scarlet, framing eyes of brilliant aquamarine. There was great confidence in her gait; every stride was measured but graceful. It made him think of Laura in more than a few ways.

     The girl was decked out in a revealing costume the same color as her hair, consisting of a brilliant low-cut, halter top decked out with gold and silver sequins, exposing her bare midriff, flat as could be, and very well-toned. Tight hot pants, also done up with sequins and long red fringe, did nothing to hide a perfectly sculpted rear end. Ankle-high brown boots adorned her feet. Red and gold feathers decorated her hair as she took center stage, hands on her hips as she took in the adulation.

     The master of ceremonies bowed his head to her. “Ladies and Gentlemen, Arc En Ciel’s newest star, The Flame Princess, Miss Fianna Merrigold!” The girl, Fianna, flashed a seductive smile with pristine white teeth as she blew a kiss to the crowd, before taking the microphone.

     “Hello there, Bareahard! I hope you came to see a show!” She proclaimed in a melodic voice with a seductive overtone. “Because I sure did! Yes, I am Fianna Merrigold, and I joined Arc En Ciel just last month. My official debut will be in the next couple of weeks; we’re preparing a brand-new performance just for that. But I figure, why wait that long? We’ll bring the excitement directly to the people!” The crowd cheered once again. “So, enjoy this short little piece I call the Fox Dancing in Fire!” Fianna handed the microphone back to the MC. She took a pair of thin sticks from one of the stagehands and took her place in the center of the stage, head bowed down.

     A shrill burst of strings and a strident blaring of the horns indicated the start of the performance. Brilliant flames erupted from the cauldrons. Fianna’s head snapped up, the sticks in hand. Fianna contorted her body backward, kicking up to the sky. She brought the sticks down in a movement very reminiscent of a sword. Fianna moved in a blur, backflipping gracefully before rolling on her back into a crouch, kicking up into a handstand. The sticks moved in a series of artful movements when she flipped upwards, twisting on a single leg.

     The flames rose and fell in time with the stirring beat of the music. The crowd began crying out in amazement as Fianna suddenly leapt several arge into the air, spinning and twirling as she hit the peak of the jump. Her body gracefully twisted, her flaming red hair and costume contrasting heavily against the clear blue sky. She deftly spun the sticks in her hands; they were adorned with red and gold streamers, flapping in the breeze as she fell downward. It made Rean and his friends worry how she’d land.

     But they needn’t worry, Fianna landed in a graceful crouch before she jumped even higher this time, and the crowd cheered even more. She thrust out the sticks in rapid succession, the streamers waving like tongues of fire. Fianna spun the sticks again before thrusting and waving them in a series of elaborate motions. She even kicked in the air once, flipping end over end before she fell back to the ground once more.

     “Most impressive,” Jusis remarked, watching as Fianna spun a couple times on her way down. She made it look incredibly easy. “I’ve long heard of Arc-en-Ciel’s performances and how theatrical they can be. But it’s another thing entirely to see it with my own eyes.”

     “The performers of Arc-En-Ciel are some of the best in the world at what they do.” Master Ka-Fai stated, watching a she flung herself into the sky, spinning once again. A slight grin crossed his face. “And it appears Miss Merrigold is in very good company. She looks good in more than one way.” Rean rolled his eyes while Fie snickered. His master was wise, but he was still a pervy old man at heart.

      A few people winced as she landed in a crouch before springing up with her streamer-covered sticks in hand. Jusis folded his arms, watching as Fianna spun around the square, while slicing the air with the props. “I’m amazed she doesn’t break her ankles every time she lands. I have to imagine she’s putting considerable strain on the body with all the fancy acrobatics.” 

     Rean had no words for his future classmate; a part of his mind was still trying to work out who Fianna was and how she had become involved with this.  Only for Fie to gently nudge him in the side. “She’s got a lot more going on under the hood than people realize. Check out her footwork. She’s not just a dancer, she’s a duelist.” She cocked her head slightly breaking down her movements. “And those sticks? Definitely not just for show!”

     “You’re saying she has combat training?” Jusis asked, watching more intently. It wasn’t long before he began seeing the rhythm of Fianna’s movements more clearly. “Huh, you’re right! That is as much the footwork of a fighter as it is a dancer. One I actually recognize. Miss Merrigold is a student of the Vander School’s dual wielding variant.” He snorted, realizing Fianna’s spins and turns now had a heavy edge to them. “And the sticks should have been an indication.”

     “Yeah, but she’s not wielding full-length swords.” Fie piped up, smirking a little, noting the dexterity of her fingers as she flipped the sticks in them, holding one high overhead as she spun in place twice. “She’s a knife fighter, like me! But something tells me she doesn’t have guns attached to whatever she usually wields.”

     “There’s something else mixed in there as well.” Rean finally spoke as Fianna leapt into the sky. Something that had caught his trained eye once they knew what to look for. He too, knew about how the Vander School’s two main variations were based on greatswords and dual wielding, but at the same time, Fianna’s personal technique was built on something besides one of the Empire’s two greatest sword schools, something closer to home for Rean. “What it is I’m not sure, but it’s definitely Eastern-based.”

     “A good eye, my apprentice. It’s called Eskrima.” Yun interjected, watching with approval as Fianna spun around into a high split, the streamers on the sticks flapping just as her hair did. “It’s from a distant part of the Far East. They normally use a pair of rattan sticks, but they can be easily replaced by knives of any kind. The culture in that part of the continent is heavily built around it, just as the Empire has a deep history of swordsmanship.”

     The flames reached higher than ever before as the performance hit its climax. Fianna threw her sticks in the air, doing a series of cartwheels, flips, and rolls before deftly catching them. She leapt one more time in the air, wreathed in the fire. She landed perfectly in a flourish, and the music ended to a rousing series of cheers and applause. Fianna gave a deep theatrical bow before throwing out another kiss to the audience. “Thank you all so much!” She said, once again taking the microphone as stagehands quickly worked in the background. “I hope you enjoyed the performance. It’s one I came up with myself. But we’re not done yet, not by a long shot!”

     The MC took the microphone back. “Arc-en-Ciel prides themselves on being close with their fans. So for the next two hours we will have a photo session where you can take pictures with Fianna and ask her questions about her time with the troupe. So if you’re eager to do so, please line up and we will to get everyone.”

     “Hm, nice! I wouldn’t mind having a few words with her.” Fie hummed for a few seconds while idly tapping her chin. She then side-eyed Jusis as she smirked before letting out an evil chuckle.

     “What are you planning?” Jusis prided himself on having firm control of his emotions, and keeping a cool head at all times. But the way this little wisp of a girl was staring at him was enough to make even him nervous.

     “We could be standing in line all day before we even get a word with her. But since your family does run this town, we could bypass the line entirely!” Before Jusis could issue a protest, Fie shoved him toward the front of the line. “Out of the way! Bareahard Bigshot coming through!” She called out in a loud voice. “Make way for the son of Duke Albarea!” Rean did his best to stifle his laughter. This was so totally a Fie move, and it brought a profound sense of relief to his heart.

     Master Ka-Fai thought it was funny too, given the loud belly laugh he let out. “Ah ha ha! Oh, you are so Rutger’s little girl! I recall he did something similar when Ikaruga and Zephyr were working a job together out in Remiferia!” He took another drink of sake as he followed the children, recounting the story to Rean and Fie, all the while Jusis kept protesting the whole way. The crowd quickly recognized the scion of House Albarea and readily allowed them passage.

     “Stop this at once!” Jusis growled even as Fie merrily pushed him through the throng of people. He could have probably easily broken free, but he had so many eyes on him in that particular moment. He winced at what his father would say, and Rufus would never let him hear the end of it. “This is so undignified!”

     “Oh, lighten up!” Fie shot back, looking to Rean, still enjoying the scene himself. “Are all nobles this uptight?”

     “He’s better than others,” Rean admitted. “Jusis is actually quite modest despite his station. One thing he can’t stand is a suck up. He prefers people just to be honest with their feelings and get to know the man behind the name. It’s how we became friends the first time again.” These words struck a chord with Jusis because Rean had spoken the truth. The scion of House Albarea looked to the heir of House Schwarzer, and a new understanding passed between them. But it was only for a minute, and Jusis was still annoyed.

     “Must she push me along like this?” He grumbled, doing his best to keep his dignity.    

     “I don’t know, you tell me.” Jusis’s next words died on his tongue as he was face to face with the Flame Princess. Fianna’s smile was predatory as her gaze raked up and down him. “I must say I’m quite surprised, I wasn’t expecting to meet someone from House Albarea in person. Regardless, I’m simply delighted to know that you were here to catch my performance today. Did it meet your high standards, Lord Albarea?” She batted her eyelashes at the end.

     Jusis threw out a final glare at Fie before regaining his composure and turning on the noble charm. “Please, just Jusis will do. And yes, it was a superb display all around, Miss Merrigold.” He smiled, gently kissing her hand. “It’s a great pleasure to bear witness to such a spectacle. I was quite amazed by those high jumps. I imagine you must undergo a significant degree of physical conditioning in order not to hurt yourself upon landing.”

     Fianna giggled; it was light and teasing. “You’re very observant, Jusis Indeed, Ilya, Rixia, and myself all hit the gym every day to harden our bodies to endure the extreme acrobatics we employ in all our performances.” A stab of relief went through Rean, even if Fianna was an unexpected addition to this narrative, knowing that both Ilya and Rixia were in the mix meant that things were close enough to how he remembered them. But it was then he felt Fianna’s eyes on him, and that predatory smile was back. “Ah, are these friends of yours?”

     Jusis smirked, and Rean suddenly felt his stomach drop into his feet. “I actually just met them, but they seem to be such huge fans of yours. Perhaps you can indulge them some?” Payback was sweet in so many ways. Rean was trying to keep his gaze squarely on Fianna’s face. He did his best to fill his head with images of nothing but Laura. He also had an idea of what would happen if Laura were there.  

     Fie didn’t seem bothered by any of this. If anything, she had quickly come to like the redhead. She just stood square with Fianna, both women sizing each other up. Neither of them said a word to each other before they both smiled, making Rean feel very nervous. “The way you handled those sticks was pretty impressive. I feel bad for anyone trying to mess with you in a dark alley. You strike me as the type who has little issue cracking someone over the head for getting too handsy. I bet it’s even more so if you swap them out for a pair of good daggers.”

     Fianna beamed. “Oh, a fellow knife user then? You have a sharp eye to be able to determine my weapon of choice.”

     To which Fie just shrugged. “It was pretty easy once we determined what the sticks were for. It’s actually pretty close to what I do.” She held her hand out. “The name’s Fie Claussell. I’m just along for the ride because my pop is friends with this chucklehead’s master.” She jerked a thumb at Rean, who offered a fake grin. “I wasn’t sure about it at first, but I’m glad that I came along anyway.” Again, Rean struggled to keep his gaze on Fianna’s face. He wasn’t sure what to do, but then Fie elbowed him in the side. “Come on, introduce yourself to the lady.”

     Rean sighed, and bowed low. “Rean Schwarzer from the Ymir Barony. It’s very nice to meet you, Miss Merrigold. Your performance was quite lovely.” He would acknowledge her grace and skill, but it was still really hard not to stare at how blessed in the chest Fianna really was. And given how she looked at him, Fianna really didn’t seem to mind. But Rean soldiered on. “I imagine you’re quite pleased to make it to the big time. Arc-en-Ciel doesn’t take just anybody. Then again, Ilya Platierre is always a very good judge of talent.”

     “Indeed, Ilya always did know how to pick them well. She picked Rixia right out of the crowd and just knew she had what it took. Perhaps you’d like to join us as well, Lord Schwarzer?” She folded her arms. “I’m sure she’d be more than willing to welcome you into the troupe’s ranks. I know I wouldn’t mind!”

     “Like Jusis, I don’t stand too much on formality. You can just call me Rean. I’m flattered you would extend an offer to me, Miss Merrigold. But I’m afraid I have other plans at the moment. I’ve been traveling around the empire with my master to hone my skills before I attend Thors Military Academy next year.” Fianna’s eyes widened a little.

     “You’re planning on attending Thors?” Fianna laughed and clapped. “Then you’ll be able to meet my little brother then! His family lives in Trista, and he’ll be attending Thors next spring as well.” And Fianna shook the foundation of Rean’s world once again. During his whole-time attendance at Thors there were never any students who hailed directly from there. “I call him my little brother, but we’re not actually related. But our dads have known each other for years, and I’m two years older than him. So he’s my little brother.”

     “I’ll be sure to look him up then.” Rean managed. Ignoring the smirks, Jusis and Fie were shooting him. Master Ka-Fai just gave a knowing grin to his apprentice while taking a light swig from his pocket flask. The Sword Hermit may look like he was just another drunken old man, but he caught something out of the corner of his eye. A pair of men standing at the edge of the square, they wore nondescript clothing and had nondescript faces, just a couple of generic-looking men in the crowd, but years of training and experience said otherwise.

     They were speaking in hushed whispers and pointing at Fianna. The old master just idly sipped his sake one more time, all the while noting the two men as they quickly hurried away toward the Artisan District.

     A small crowd of reporters bearing cameras and notepads came up. “Miss Merrigold, we’re with the Imperial Chronicle. Is it possible we can get a statement?” They were crowding in fast, asking questions in rapid fire. A couple of them diverted their attention to Jusis instead, who handled it with great poise and the same bored disinterest Rean remembered Jusis using to get rid of brown-nosing classmates at Thors.

     Fianna seemed right at home with all the attention. “Please, I’m sure Lord Albarea is an extremely busy man. After all, you came to see me.” The reporters promptly left Jusis alone. She let out a dramatic sigh. “The downsides of stardom, everyone wants a piece of you.” The predatory smile returned. “I’ll be in town for a few days yet, perhaps I’d be lucky to get an audience with Duke Albarea himself and have dinner at your home?”

     “I’ll be sure to let my father know about it.” He said, praying with all he had to Aidios, such a thing had never happened. “I’m sure he’d readily welcome you and the rest of your troupe.”

     “Well, my adoring public awaits! See you later!” Fianna waved as she began speaking to the assembled journalists.

     Jusis sighed, relieved that the attention wasn’t on him. He looked at Rean and Fie. “Can we go back to Sorcerie now? I think I need another bowl of my uncle’s spaghetti.” His gaze turned harsh. “And then we can discuss the real reason you came here. Because something tells me it’s not just because of something Rufus said.” In that moment, Rean could see the future Duke of Kreuzen Province. “So the truth better be something good.”

     Rean was unmoved; he knew Jusis would be a hard sell, and figured this was as good a time as any to come clean. “But of course. Transparency is always important after all.” He replied, flashing a glance at Master Ka-Fai, who had kept to the edge of the crowd during their little interaction with Fianna. So they departed back to the restaurant. They went back to the table and sat around it.

     “Okay, Jusis, you’re a rational man and don’t like going about in circles. So I’ll cut right to the chase. Yet I think it’s fair to point out that what I’m about to tell you is extremely out there and unlikely, but it is the truth.” Rean took a deep breath. “I’m a time traveler from the future. You, Fie, and I will become classmates at Thors in another few months, and I’m traveling around the empire, checking in on everyone and getting some extra training in while doing so.”

     Unsurprisingly, Jusis wore a skeptical look. “Really? Time travel? You’re right, that is preposterous to even consider.” But then he became quiet. “But you also said we would become friends.” In this moment, Rean and Fie got to witness something few ever would, his vulnerability. “Because of my family name, I’m respected by everyone here in Bareahard, but I don’t have a lot of true friends.” He closed his eyes, hesitating a little. “Or any friends really,” Jusis said the last part quietly. 

     Jusis quickly regained his usual demeanor. “If this future of yours is real, and we do become friends. Then prove it, tell me something that I would only tell a trusted friend that is utterly soul shattering. If you can do that, then I’ll believe you.” 

     “Okay, you made that really easy. Yes, I do know something about your past, Jusis. Something that few others do. I know that Duchess Albarea is not your actual mother.” There it was, the stern gaze from Jusis, indicating it was the truth. He said nothing, and so Rean continued. “She was a commoner your father had an affair with. He took you in out of respect for her memory, and to avoid any possible scandals.” Rean leaned in. “You tell that to me that during our field study here. In a lot of ways, you and I share that in common.”

     Jusis arched an eyebrow. It was time for Rean to put forward a little of his own honesty. “For you see, I’m actually a commoner myself, and I was adopted by the Schwarzers when I was very young. I was left in the middle of the woods near Ymir and they took me in. Despite how well both of them treated me. I always felt isolated, like I never really belonged anywhere. I was really glad when you told me that, because it meant I wasn’t alone anymore.”

     Rean watched Jusis closely for his reaction; this would be the critical moment if he had won him over. The young noble folded his hands in front of his face. “Not being alone anymore.” He repeated, before nodding slightly. “Yeah, I know that feeling all too well. Being alone in your home.” Jusis tapped the countertop. “Okay then, you sold me. As ludicrous as it sounds. So tell me, what are the rest of our future classmates like? If I’m going to spend any extended amount of time around these people. I want to know what I’m getting myself into.”

     It took everything for Rean not to laugh, of course, Fie did it for him. “Thank you, Jusis. As for our classmates, they are a very eclectic bunch. We’re part of an unprecedented social experiment thought up by Prince Olivert himself, a class where nobles and commoners intermingle as one. Nothing like it had ever been done before, and a lot of people mocked it. But Class VII quickly proved them all wrong. We would go on field studies all over the Empire and get a real good look at the social problems plaguing it and you know exactly what I’m talking about.”

     “Indeed, the tensions between the nobles and the reformists are something I’m all too aware of, and it only seems to get worse by the day.” Jusis grimaced, recalling a recent incident when he and Rufus had accompanied their father to Heimdallr and had a very unpleasant run-in with the Chancellor and some of his supporters. “I must say His Highness certainly found an interesting way to try and bridge the gap. If what you say is true then us being picked wasn’t just random happenstance.”

     “Most certainly not, we were each chosen by the prince to be his personal troubleshooters, not connected by the politics of a single faction. As such, there was some friction between some of us, but with time, everyone fell into the same groove, and we became close.” Rean put a hand on Jusis’s shoulder. “A second family if you will.” He went on to explain the other members of Class VII to Jusis, putting a special emphasis on Machias and his stormy relationship with the scion of the House of Albarea.

     Jusis was actually amused upon hearing about Machias’s severe dislike of the nobility. “Hmph, the son of the first commoner to be named Imperial Governor. I suppose he’ll make a worthy enough adversary, a fine change from all the mincing, simpering nobles I have to deal with normally.” He smirked, to which both Rean and Fie snickered as he straightened himself up. “I’m still not sure what to make of this whole time travel thing, but it’s piqued my interest enough to see about enrolling at Thors just to see how everything plays out.”

     “I guarantee it will be more than worth it, Jusis. We all grow from it in ways we didn’t think possible.” Rean said, feeling quite relieved, he had managed to win him over.

     Jusis straightened out his jacket. “As long as the two of you are here in town, perhaps I can give you a tour? I would be a poor host and a worse friend if I didn’t show you some of the city’s finer points that normally are overlooked by tourists.”

     Both Fie and Rean looked to each other. “Whatever you could show us would be greatly appreciated.” He finally said, already feeling like the rest of Class VII was around him. 

     Master Ka-Fai chortled. “Hehe, I’m glad to see you’re making new friends, Rean. The son of one of the Four Great Houses, no less. I’m sure he’ll be a very capable ally down the line.” He extended his hand to Jusis. “I suppose formal introductions are in order, Lord Albarea. My name is Yun Ka-Fai.” Jusis’s eyes widened in shock, to which the old master nodded. “Yes, that is who I am, and Rean is my apprentice. Thank you for not completely dismissing his words. He needs all the support he can get right now.” He stood groaning and stretching. “I’ll leave you three to your own devices, but if I was smart, I’d keep my eyes and ears open. There’s mischief makers afoot, best to keep alert.”

     He walked out the door, leaving the trio of future classmates alone. “Is he always like that?” Jusis asked.

     “Pretty much, but if he tells you something is up, then it’s usually a good idea to take it to heart.” Rean pondered his master’s words as he looked to Fie. “It looks like we might see some action here after all, but then again, this trip would be rather boring if nothing exciting happened.”

     “About time we got some real action. I was getting bored.” Fie’s hands went to her holstered gun daggers. It was that moment she reminded everyone of just who she really was, Fie Claussell, Sylphid, the Wind Princess of Zephyr. Anyone who tried to mess with her would be cut to pieces.

     Rean looked to Jusis, his eye going to the knight's sword hanging at his hip. “Dumb question to ask, but you practiced with your blade recently?”

     “As if I would ever let my skills diminish any!” Jusis sounded incensed. He had just had a very intense sparring session with Rufus the previous day. His older brother was the reason he knew Albarea-style court fencing as well as he did. “I have a duty to the people of this town to protect them against any threats. If someone thinks they can turn my town into their own little playground. They will answer to me.”

     “Just making sure.” Rean suddenly felt very bad for whoever decided to cause trouble in Bareahard. Jusis was a firm believer in noblesse oblige, that his status as a noble meant he had a responsibility to those around him. It was the central core of his personal ideals, and Jusis would gladly take up sword and arts alike to defeat whatever enemy was in his path. “So why don’t we get that tour started? I’m sure it will be quite pleasant.”

(Bareahard, Artisan Street)

     Artisan Street, home to some of the best craftsmen in Erebonia. It’s a place of tradition and fine workmanship. But even this stately place has its dark secrets. A pair of hooded figures moved through shadowed back alleys. Arriving at a four-story building made of brilliant red brick, they knocked at the steel rolling door. “Hey! It’s us!” One of the figures said. The door strained as it was pulled open, and the two figures entered, the door sliding shut behind them. Hoods were pulled down, revealing the two men from the square earlier in the day. 

     The building usually served as a warehouse for the many tradesmen who worked in the district, but it had been shanghaied for use as a temporary base by a group of jaegers. There was about two dozen of them, all in civilian clothing as they tended to their equipment. “So, how did your recon go? Did you see the target?” The lead jaeger asked. 

     “Yes, we did, Commander.” The first scout replied. “Fianna Merrigold, the newest attraction from Arc En Ciel. I’ll admit, she really put on a show for everyone!” He whistled and gave a slightly perverted leer, recalling Fianna’s tight costume and even tighter-looking body as she leapt through the air with practiced ease. “I’ll tell you she looked smoking hot while she did it!”

     The other scout rolled his eyes; his partner had always been a lech, so it would fall to him to deliver the actual intel of value. “She’s kept to the same routine the past two days. Wakes up around 0700 from the Hotel Esmerald in the Central Square and goes for a morning jog, takes a lap through Station Street, the Noble District, through to here and back to the hotel. She has no real security, so I think it should be easy enough to grab her, boss. It should just be a matter of picking the right time and place for it. Once we do that, we demand the ransom from Arc En Ciel for her safe return.”

     “300,000 Mira, hell of a payday for us.” The commander echoed, a greedy smile crossing his face. He could already feel the bills slapping against his palm. He then turned to address the rest of the corps. “Good job, boys, we’ll make a name for ourselves yet! Everyone will know of the Jaeger Corps Bugbear!”

     “Go, Bugbear!” They raised their fists in the air. It all looked so simple in their eyes. Find and abduct a prominent celebrity, and demand a large ransom for their safe return. It would allow them to purchase new gear and also allow them to grow the ranks of the corps. Not to mention, it was an easy way to just get rich quickly, not to mention gaining lots of notoriety. It was just a matter of time now.

(Later That Afternoon, South Kreuzen Highway)

     Rean wasn’t surprised at all when Jusis took him and Fie to a stable located at the city gates. Equestrianism was the scion of the Albarea clan’s greatest passion. Jusis looked totally at home on the dark stallion he rode. Rean was on a charcoal mare while Fie handled a pinto gelding. The three trotted down the winding trail, the only sound beating hooves against gravel and wind blowing through the trees.

     “I must say it’s been a while since I went riding with others,” Jusis remarked, peering up at the sky, fast turning purple and orange as the sun set. “Rufus and I would go out all the time on this trail when we were younger, but those moments became less and less frequent as he took on more duties. So, I’d go riding by myself. It’s good for clearing my head, but at the same time, it’s also nice to have someone to share this with.”

     “We’re glad to oblige,” Rean said, patting his horse. “These are good mounts. Are they from Nord?”

     Jusis let out a smug little chortle. “You have a good eye, yes, they are. One of my father’s few good decisions was importing horses from the Highlands. He would accept nothing less than the best.” He became somber. “Of course, it meant he wasn’t exactly the most doting parent either.” Rean didn’t need to say anything else; their arrival in Bareahard was crystal clear in his memory, the cold, dismissive glare before he drove off.

     “You’re a better noble, a better man than your father could ever hope to be,” Rean spoke up, not wanting Jusis to get caught up in his own loathing. “You always talk about noblesse oblige, and the responsibility that comes with that title. My father is the same way. He never let his status put himself above others. He was the kind of guy who would rather have people stand alongside him, rather than bow at his feet. You’re cut from the same cloth, Jusis.” 

     “Better yet, just don’t dwell on such things right now,” Fie spoke up, plucking a leaf from a low-hanging tree branch. “If we came out here to relax, then let’s relax. Don’t let the heavy stuff bother you. This is supposed to be our time to enjoy ourselves, and that’s all that matters.”

     “Fie’s right, Jusis, let’s just enjoy ourselves,” Rean said, looking to the sky. “None of that stuff is going anywhere. You can lean on us from here on out.” Jusis had no other words. They all shared a moment that day.

(The Next Morning)

     An overcast sky hung over the Verdant City, an aura of gloom permeated everything. Not that Fianna cared or minded. She left the hotel, wearing a black and red tank top and white track pants and Stregas. Stretching once, she began her morning jog. She set down toward the Noble District, waving to the random early commuter on their way to work. A couple of people called out to Fianna as she ran by them, wanting an autograph, which she happily obliged.

     More than a few eyes were on her as she went through the aristocrats’ part of town. Not all of them were men, as Fianna noted more than a few noblewomen giving her a slight smile as she ran by them. She smiled and winked back at them as she continued running, almost all the way to the end of the street. Huffing a little, Fianna turned and ran back toward the Central Plaza. The city was starting to come alive more and more.

     She was turning onto Artisan’s Street when a pair of burly figures stepped into her path, nearly causing a collision. “Hey! Why don’t you watch where you’re going you big goons!” Fianna cried, but they were unmoved. The two men wore dark clothes and stony expressions before they grabbed her by the arms. “Let go of me!” She cried, kicking her legs in protest. Her voice carried enough so people knew it was happening.

     “Oh, shut up, if you know what’s good for you!” One of her abductors snapped at her in a harsh voice as they dragged her into a back alley. Fianna kicked one of them in the shins in an attempt to escape, only to get backhanded across the face for her trouble. A few people gasped in surprise.

     “Hey, don’t damage the goods!” The other kidnapper said, holding her arms behind her back. “She’s not worth to us all bashed up!” The first jaeger grunted, pulling out handcuffs and slapping them on Fianna’s wrists.

     “She makes regular 60 arge jumps into the air and lands without blinking. I think she can take getting roughed up a little bit.” The first one replied, clicking them shut and slinging Fianna over his beefy shoulder. The two headed toward the Bugbear hideout. They strode in like conquering heroes. “Mission accomplished, boss! We did pretty well if I do say so myself!” Fianna flailed her legs some more, trying to kick the guy in the head without much success. “She’s a feisty one to be sure.”

     “Why don’t you take these love bands off, and I’ll show you just how feisty I can really be!” Fianna hissed, only to get mocking laughter from the other Bugbear operatives.

     “My dear, I don’t think how in over your head you really are.” The commander said, grabbing Fianna by the chin. “We’re dangerous people, and once we’ve gotten our ransom, then everyone will know the name of Bugbear, the most fearsome corps in all of Western Zemuria!” Fianna looked at him for all of ten seconds before she split her sides from the uncontrollable laughter.

     “Bugbear? You’re called Bugbear?! What kind of lame name is that? That’s like calling yourselves Catbug or MeowBark! The only ones taking that name are those with IQs lower than rocks!” Fianna didn’t wince even as she got punched in the stomach.

     “You may mock us now, but who’s the one cuffed up?” The commander sneered. “Last I checked, it wasn’t me!” He motioned to one of the operatives who kidnapped her. “Take Miss Merrigold to the guest quarters, I’m sure she must be quite tired.”        

     The guest quarters were a small storage room on the second floor. Fianna got thrown into an uncomfortable metal folding chair. “Here, make yourself at home for a while, girly. Because you’ll be here for a while.” The Jaeger made some faux kissing sounds at her. Fianna spat at him, but missed. He just mock-kissed a couple more times before locking the door. Fianna glared at the door for a few seconds before she smirked and did her best to stifle her laughter.

     “Oh wow, it’s not just the name of their corps that’s moronic. These guys only have one working brain cell between all of them.” Fianna began flexing and contorting until she managed to work her arms in front of her. “Putting my hands behind my back was a good move, but it doesn’t mean anything to a girl who can twist her body into a pretzel.” She began rummaging about inside the pocket of her track pants. “Not to mention they didn’t think of checking me for any contraband!”

     She pulled out a small leather pouch, revealing a set of lock picks inside. Fianna looked relieved at the sight of them, a gift from someone as good as family. “Oh, thank you so much for teaching me how to do this, Mom!” With that, she began working on picking her cuffs slowly but focused. Fianna was smart enough not to immediately escape. One thing her parents had drilled into her head was patience and waiting for the right moment. She would bide her time, and then Bugbear would find what it meant to face the daughter of a Fox.

(Later That Morning)

     Fianna’s kidnapping wasn’t exactly private; more than a few had heard, and a couple even saw it happen with their own eyes, and thus quickly reported it to the provincial army soldier standing guard at the city gates. And so it was that when Jusis and his coterie emerged from the hotel, a small contingent of soldiers stood waiting for them, at their head was an older man with slightly graying hair, standing perfectly at parade rest with a stoic gaze in his eye.

     A pair of ornate, but functional-looking swords hanging at his sides. His uniform was the same shade of blue as the others, but the most elaborate of them all, with gold braiding along the shoulders, and several medals with ribbons of multiple colors on his chest, indicating many years of military service. “Lord Jusis!” The man quickly strode forward, offering a quick salute. “Please forgive my intrusion, but there’s a matter of great urgency that I had to speak to you about immediately.”

     Jusis took a moment. “Quick introductions first, this is Major General Owen Artorum, commander of the Kreuzen Provincial Army. Owen, this is Rean Schwarzer, son of the Baron of Ymir and Fie Claussell.” Jusis had to pause for a minute, not sure what to say, but Fie did it for him.

     “Just call me a visitor to the Empire, and we’ll leave it at that for right now.” She said, getting a questioning stare from the general and a snicker from Rean.

     Even Jusis quirked a half smile before quickly putting his noble face back on. “What’s the problem, Owen? You said there was a matter of great urgency.”

     The older man’s face suddenly looked weathered by ten years. “Miss Fianna Merrigold had been reported abducted in broad daylight. We have multiple accounts saying that she was grabbed during an early morning jog through town.” Owen looked quite disturbed as he leaned in. “Not only will this look bad for us, but I don’t need to tell you what kind of reaction her parents will have! Mark alone will have the Fifth Division beating down our door within a day, and less said about his wife!”

     “Pardon me for asking,” Rean spoke up. “But where exactly did this take place? Did anyone call asking for some kind of ransom? It seems like this could be what they want.”

     Owen pondered this before answering. “According to eyewitnesses, it was in the Central Square, just near where the Artisan’s District starts, and no one has called claiming responsibility yet, but we’ll certainly be keeping watch for that now.”

     Jusis took a moment to weigh his options. His gaze shifted to Rean, who just put his hands in his pockets and gave a slight incline of his head. Fie folded her arms and smirked. All of a sudden, Jusis felt a burst of confidence. “In that case, notify Father and Rufus. Let them know I have it well in hand. My friends and I.” Saying that just felt right to him. “Will investigate this personally. Give us two hours, and I’ll notify you then. Do you trust me on that, Owen?”

     The general harrumphed and looked at him with pride. “But of course, Lord Jusis.” He smirked. “After all, I did train you and your brother in the finer points of investigation. If we hear anything about a potential ransom, then I’ll get back to you. I have total faith in you, then. You have your two hours, so be diligent.” Owen stepped back and saluted them before he and his men departed. Jusis looked as the KPA commander got into the car and drove off.

     “He seems like he has a good head on his shoulders.” Rean didn’t recall ever meeting Owen the first time around, but he could have been there the entire time and just never showed up. But he got the impression of who Jusis’s true father figure was.

     Jusis just nodded fondly. “He was the one who trained both Rufus and I in the way of the sword. Owen has always taken the time to listen to my problems. He’s never turned me away because he was too busy.” The Albarea scion bowed his head for a quick moment before he turned around to face his comrades, now all business. “But enough of that, if Miss Merrigold is being held somewhere, then it is my duty…our duty.” He corrected himself. “To find her and bring her home alive and well.”

     “Should we notify Master Ka-Fai?” Fie asked. “He was still sleeping when we left.” Sleeping would have been an understatement. The Sword Hermit had been down in the bar all night, and came up just after 1 AM. Not to mention, he was snoring so loudly it would put an Achtzen to shame.

     “I think the three of us can handle it,” Rean said. “My master isn’t the type to fight all our battles for us. He would probably say that the experience would be worth it.”

     “Indeed, I could use the warmup myself,” Jusis said. 

     “We’ve taken jobs to find missing people before, and I’m a decent enough tracker. I’m sure we can suss it out.” Fie grunted, stretching her arms over her head before cracking her neck. The inner hunter was starting to come out. “So where do we start looking, fearless leader?” She directed the question at Rean, not Jusis. “If she were taken, then we have seventy-two hours at most to ascertain her whereabouts before she becomes a liability, ransom or not.”

     “Given she was last seen just outside of the Artisan’s District, our best bet is to start looking there.” Rean found himself naturally slipping into command mode. It felt just like being on a field study again. He then looked at Jusis. “What do you make of these kidnappers? The fact that it happened in broad daylight and how so many people saw them commit the act doesn’t seem very bright to me. The district is a pretty narrow place. It’s not like they couldn’t have waited in a side alley and just grabbed her then.”

     “Indeed, it all sounds extremely amateurish. They’re either so confident in their own abilities or they’re just truly inept; they didn’t consider all the consequences.” Jusis straightened his coat out. “Let’s make for Artisan’s Street, we’ve wasted enough time as is.” The three of them quickly headed through town. Once they reached the district of craftsmen, they split up and went to all the major stores to learn whatever they could.

     Luckily, everyone was more than willing to explain what they saw. “They certainly weren’t being quiet about it.” Turner, the man who owned the jewelry store, grunted as he spoke to Rean. “I think half the neighborhood saw it happen, and the rest all heard it. They disappeared into a side street before anyone could really intervene. I hope you’re able to do something about that.”

     “I don’t think you’ll have to look very far to find them, Lord Jusis.” Letra, one of the seamstresses at the tailoring shop, said to Jusis. “There have been all kinds of unsavory types around here lately, showed up about a week ago, whole lot of them prowling through the street like they owned the place. A couple of them even made passes at us when they stopped in here. I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re holed up somewhere in the district. I certainly hope you find that poor girl soon.”

     “They weren’t your average tourists, let me tell you. They were constantly eyeing everything and everyone.” Davros, the old man who ran the orbal factory said, as he leaned in to Fie. “I’d say they had military training, but if so, then their situational awareness is absolutely pathetic. If they were true professionals, then they wouldn’t have been so obvious.     There was a slight gleam in Fie’s eyes at the mention of military training. It was the proverbial smoking gun.

     The three met in the middle of the street once they finished questioning everyone. “Everyone we interviewed said the same thing: a group of strangers blow into town, skulking about while looking at everything suspiciously. The engineer at the orbal factory even said they had military training.” Fie expounded while tapping her foot. “This isn’t just a couple of guys acting on their own. This was a full-blown planned operation, which for me points to Jaegers. But not very good ones.”

     “This sounds familiar to me for some reason.” Rean reached back into his memory, trying to figure out just what it was, but he quickly brushed it off. “The guys in the jewelry store said they vanished into a side street, which tracks with what the people at the tailor store said about them operating out of the district itself.” He took a few steps. “So there can’t be too many places large enough to support them all.”

     “Indeed, in fact, I have a very good idea of where these troublemakers are hiding. There’s a warehouse in the southern part of the district. It’s been used by various merchants and whatnot over the years, and more or less just sticks in the background. So everyone just ignores it. I’ll notify Owen to send some backup in case they prove to be difficult.” Jusis smirked widely. “Well now, shall we pay these miscreants a visit? They made a huge mistake of causing trouble in my town. It’s my duty as son of House Albarea and a champion of common sense to straighten them out.”

     “You lead the way, Jusis,” Rean said, hand on his own blade. The three marched into the backstreets, all the while the future Ashen Awakner was still trying to figure out just who these jaegers were and why it seemed so familiar to him.

(Bugbear Warehouse Headquarters)

     The plan was quickly coming to fruition. Everyone could feel it. The commander had assembled all of the men in the main garage area, all now wearing their full combat attire, turquoise-gray jackets and matching pants, brown shoulder guards and bracers covering their wrists, and violet steel-toed boots. Their helmets were the same colors, with a back drape covering the neck, finished off with goggles and a grey mouth cover.

     “Okay, boys, this is it! Our moment of triumph has arrived!” The commander announced. “We’re going to march right to the Central Square and state our demands for the whole city to see! We get our money, and the girl will be returned safe and unharmed! Everyone will know the name of Bugbear and that we are meant to be taken seriously!”

     “Ja!” The corps shouted out as one, raising fists and weapons in the air. This is the point where Bugbear took its place among the ranks of the premier corps in the world. Zephyr, Nidhoggr, and Red Constellation would have reason to be wary of them.        

     The commander smirked and turned to his adjutant. “Go and retrieve our prisoner. The show can’t start without its star after all.” The younger Jaeger saluted and made his way upstairs.

     He opened the door to find Fianna sitting there, still bound and looking annoyed. “Ah, my gracious hosts have arrived. Certainly took you long enough. I was getting ready to lodge a formal complaint with management.” Secretly, Fianna successfully picked her cuffs and got free, but had set it up to look like she was still completely helpless. The sardonic remark was her way of keeping calm and getting focused.

     “Silence you!” The jaeger snapped, pointing his pistol right at her face. “We’re getting ready to move ahead with our plans. So you’re coming with us. Try anything funny and I have no problems roughing you up. Just because we need you alive doesn’t make you exempt from getting roughed up if I feel the need to do so!”

     “Oh dear, it appears that I’m totally in over my head then!” Fianna shot back, feigning mock despair. “Then I guess you’re totally at my mercy.” The Jaeger looked at her confusedly as she gave him a seductive smile and her left foot shot upward, burying itself square between his legs. He groaned and doubled over. Fianna let the cuffs drop and both hands struck him on the temples, and stunned the jaeger fell to the floor in a heap. Fianna stood up, and dusted herself off before rearing back to kick him in the head, fully knocking him out.

     “I’ll take that.” Fianna reached for the combat knife on his belt. She looked in surprise as she inspected her new prize. “Wow, this is actually in relatively good shape. I suppose you did at least one thing right.” She gave him a playful pat on the cheek. “Enjoy your nap!” Fianna strode out, closing the door with a loud slam. “And now I get to really have some fun!” Quietly made her way down the steps, knife in hand. She saw a pair of guards standing at the door.

     Picking up a couple of pieces of broken concrete and half of a brick, Fianna went back upstairs, throwing one of the debris scraps down the metal steps. “What was that?” One of the guards said, coming to investigate. She threw another chunk of rock down the steps and took refuge just behind the door. “We have a disturbance!” The guard quickly rushed up the steps. Fianna didn’t waste time, kicking open the door and hurling the brick with all she had, hitting him square in the chest. He groaned as the wind was knocked out of him. He tumbled back down to the landing.

     Fianna knew she had to hustle; they knew she was free and would be on her in seconds. She quickly ran down to the fallen Bugbear jaeger and took his combat knife off his belt. A squad of four Jaegers, armed with rifles and swords, hurried up the steps to find Fianna standing there, a blade in each hand, and an evil smile on her face. “Hello Boys! Let’s Dance!” With a piercing screech, Fianna leapt at them.

     The jaegers were taken completely by surprise, and Fianna was more than willing to exploit their shock, burying one of her knives square in the lead jaeger’s chest, before embedding the other right in his chin and up through his mouth. “Shoot her!” another jaeger screamed in terror as they all fumbled for their weapons, the narrow confines of the stairs not helping at all as they tried to get a bead on her.

     Fianna was an encroaching storm of death, her stolen combat knives flashing in the dim lights as she cut across the second jaeger’s right arm and both knees in a single swing, before jabbing it under his left armpit. “That’s two.” She said, throwing the dying jaeger into the third soldier who had started raising his gun. This threw off his aim, and he fired into the ceiling. Fianna threw out a side kick, sending both of them off the railing and falling to the next landing with a sickening, cracking thud.

     The fourth Jaeger dropped his gun, going for his own knife. “I’m not afraid of you!” He exclaimed with a false bravado, but Fianna was unimpressed.

     “Bold words, too bad your eyes betray you.” Fianna drawled. “You’re absolutely terrified, your knees are trembling. What was supposed to be an easy job has just turned into Gehenna on Earth for you. Then again, you guys were dumb enough to lay hands on the sole daughter of the Crimson Fox!” The Jaeger’s gasp said it all. And Fianna took advantage of his hesitation, lashing out with a roundhouse kick to his side. He growled and swung upwards, but Fianna easily evaded it, going in with her left-hand blade.

     The jaeger swung again, missed again as she dropped into the splits. Fianna came up, stabbing him in the thigh and elbowing him in the face. “Lights out!” She said, impaling the hapless jaeger in the throat as he fell to the floor dead. “Idiots.” She muttered, idly flicking the blood off her weapons. “I need to get out of here.”

(At the Same Time)

     It didn’t take them long to find the building in question. Rean, Jusis, and Fie already had their weapons out, walking in a straight line. “No guards outside. These guys clearly have no situational awareness if they don’t even have someone posted on watch.” Fie shook her head. “They’re a disgrace to the business.”

     “You could probably put these guys down by yourself with one hand tied behind your back,” Rean said, still feeling like this was familiar to him. They all came to a halt at the sound of panicked screaming and gunfire. “Looks like the party started without us!” He wasted no time, sheathing his blade and dropping into a low stance, taking a long breath with his eyes closed. Jusis watched expectedly, curious to see the Eight Leaves in action for the first time.

     “Eight Leaves, Fourth Form, Autumn Leaf Cutter!” Rean’s eyes snapped open in that moment, and with that, Rean moved faster than either Jusis or Fie could blink. There was a single cry, the sound of metal slicing metal, and the rolling door collapsed in four pieces, just in time for a body to go flying through the air between them. “Okay, wasn’t expecting that!” Rean commented, and they rushed in to find Fianna standing in the middle of the chaos, knives dripping blood, and quite a few of the Bugbear operatives were carved open, dead.

     “Oh, so nice of you to show up!” Fianna said, parrying a Jaeger wielding a rapier before neatly backhanding a Jaeger in the face, ducking under another clumsy swing of a heavy sword, before slicing along his thigh. “I was beginning to think I’d have to get myself out of this mess!” The trio said nothing, just wading into the fray. The Bugbear jaegers were panicking more than ever before. None of them expected there would be a prisoner to kick open the door, knives in hand and death in her eyes.

     “Stand your ground, men! Remember that absolutely nothing can stop Corps Bugbear!” The commander tried to sound brave, but there was no mistaking the sheer terror in his voice. And that’s when it clicked for Rean.

     “Bugbear? That horde of Jaeger rejects?” Rean spoke up, not wanting to believe his ears. It all came back to him in that moment, the time in the Nord Highlands and later the hijacked airship during the civil war, and how badly they got thrashed by a bunch of school children. “Oh wow, I almost feel sorry for them now!” He readied Ashen Void, and threw out a Crimson Slash at a couple of them. “We crossed paths with them before and beat them all senseless.” The Bugbear jaegers yelped, clumsily firing at the new arrivals.

     Rean easily dodged and weaved through them using Gale, before glowing fire gathered around his blade and dropped a Flame Impact on them. The remaining Bugbear operatives scattered, screaming and panicking full out. He further continued with a Helix strike, his tachi swinging multiple times and putting down four jaegers in one swing.  

     “It doesn’t appear that they’re that big of a threat!” Jusis said, his saber in hand, throwing out a rapid series of thrusts at a squad of the Bugbear Jaegers, knocking them if he could. He winced at Fianna gutting another Jaeger, before kicking the still-cooling corpse out the window. “And it appears Miss Merrigold is taking out her frustrations at being kidnapped on them. I don’t blame her, but I’d like to keep at least a few of them alive for questioning. It would be nice to know if they’ve done anything similar elsewhere.”

     A couple more of them went flying to the ceiling, courtesy of well-timed drop kicks courtesy of Fianna. Fie flashed out, shooting them in mid-air. She threw out a flashbang at the same time. Rean, Jusis, and Fianna made sure to cover their ears and shut their eyes as it went off, deafening everyone, and giving Jusis and Rean time to continue mowing down the wannabe jaegers.  

     “Get them! They’re just a bunch of kids!” The commander was rapidly losing control of the situation. Their prisoner, being a dangerous fighter, was one thing, but these three school kids? They were Bugbear! Some of the best in all of Zemuria! Right?

     Fie was actually impressed at the Flame Princess’s combat prowess, slowly making her way over to the redhead. “Wow, now that dance with the sticks really takes on new meaning!” Fie said, firing a few rounds to scatter the clumsy jaegers, even as Fianna elegantly flowed between a couple of riflemen, slicing at their wrists to get them to drop their weapons before kicking them in the head. “You’re absolutely lethal with those knives, aren’t you?”

     “And these aren’t even my regular weapons!” She indicated the combat knives. “I’ve got a very nice pair of custom daggers, Mom and Dad gifted me last year.” Fianna backflipped out of the way, while Fie slid underneath a jaeger’s legs, stabbing one of them in the calf and shooting another in the shoulder. “Too bad I was stupid enough to leave them back at the hotel!” She slashed at one of the Bugbear agents, who yelped as the tip of the knife managed to cut along the bottom of his knee. “I only have myself to blame for that! But I won’t make that same mistake again!”

     “Nobody’s perfect!” Fie remarked, a bloody gash into one guy’s arm before pointing Avenger square at his head and pulling the trigger, and the now-dead jaeger joined his comrades on the blood-soaked floor. She moved with a speed that few could match, and a natural grace in the air that even Fianna was impressed by. The Bugbear operatives not so much. Fie spun in the air, Avenger’s tips covered in blood.

     “It’s Sylphid!” One of the Jaegers barely managed. “What’s the Princess of Zephyr doing here?” Fie just glared at the poor guy, “What’s required of me,” Her voice was ice cold. This was Fie in full hunter mode, and once she was locked onto her prey, there was no escape. It was a reminder to Rean that was Fie’s usual mode before she came to Thors. 

     Rean made use of Gale once more, blowing between Jaegers, Ashen Void swinging left and right. The sword wielders were barely able to block as the tachi’s razor edge knocked their weapons away, and the riflemen were shooting at nothing but open air. He leapt into the air, aiming another Crimson Slash downward, slicing through the ever-thinning Bugbear ranks. The poor guys were absolutely demoralized at this point. Nothing had gone the way expected and now they were getting their collective asses kicked everywhere.

     Jusis, meanwhile, was putting on a clinic in Albrea Style Court Fencing. He had always been a perfectionist in everything he did, and this was certainly no different. His footwork was clean and precise without a single movement wasted, effortlessly gliding in and out of the melee. Every thrust was exactly where he aimed, nearly disarming his opponents with and his parries were but a flick of the wrist.

      He almost felt sorry for the hapless mercenaries. Because, despite their seeming incompetence, there was a possibility for them, an idea began forming in his mind. Hopefully, Fianna didn’t kill all of them beforehand.

     As for Bugbear themselves, they had enough. “Forget this! It’s worth it!” One of them shouted, throwing his sword down and running as fast as his legs could carry him. Taking the hint, his fellow remaining jaegers all broke ranks and started fleeing out of the ruined garage door, only to run headlong into Owen and a contingent of provincial army troops. “We surrender! Throw us in prison. Just get us away from those monsters!” one Jaeger said, practically throwing himself at Owen’s feet.

     The KPA commander looked on in a mixture of amusement and confusion when he saw Jusis, Rean, Fie, and Fianna all come out. Owen did his best to hide his smirk, but the look of pride said it all. “Very well then.” He said, directing his men to arrest the jaegers. Who all looked extremely relieved to be out of that nightmare. With that out of the way, Owen approached his lord. “Looks like you dealt with the situation quite handily, Lord Jusis. I see Miss Merrigold is alive and well?”

     “More than well, she had already broken herself out of captivity when we showed up.” Jusis put his hands on his hips. “If we had been a couple of minutes later, then she probably would have disposed of the entire corps by herself.”

     “Yeah, but I wouldn’t want to steal your moment of glory, Lord Albarea. Either way, thank you all for coming to help when you did, though.” Fianna groaned, stretching out her arms again. “Oh, not how I expected my morning to go, but I’m ready for a warm bath and a hot meal. Perhaps you and your companions would be willing to join me for dinner later?”

     “We may just take you up on that offer. I’m sure my uncle would be more than willing to host us.” Jusis said, turning to his fellow classmates. “Provided you’re not in any hurry?”   

     “I wouldn’t turn down a chance for a free meal,” Fie said, looking to Rean. “I can’t imagine you would either.”

     “We’d be happy to accept,” Rean said. Fianna then leaned in and kissed him lightly on the cheek. Of course, she had to get her teasing in somewhere. At least Laura wasn’t around to see it.

     “Then wear something nice, it’s only proper after all,” Fianna said, walking off. Rean just shook his head, ignoring the snickers coming from Fie, and even Jusis smirked. He sighed, stopping in that moment, reflecting on what this turn of events meant.

     Something that Fie caught on to. “What is it?” She asked.

     “It’s nothing,” Rean said, but neither she nor Jusis would hear it.

     “Don’t you dare say that to me.” Jusis sharply interjected. “Whenever someone says it’s nothing, then it usually means something is troubling you. If we are friends, then you share that.” Rean led Jusis and Fie to a corner of the alley.

     “I’m glad we were able to stop this, but something has been bugging me since we got here. I recall how things went the first time around.” Rean leaned in for emphasis. “And Fianna was not part of it. She was never with Arc-En-Ciel at all; it was just Ilya and Rixia who were the top stars. I don’t know where she came from, but it worries me greatly.”

     “Perhaps this is a consequence of your travel through time?” Jusis said. “I don’t proclaim myself any kind of expert on the subject, but certainly upending such a primal force as time would cause unexpected side effects. Things changing you couldn’t account for.” On a lot of levels, Rean knew it was correct. Jusis was a learned man with a very sharp intellect and a healthy dose of common sense. It was all too possible this was exactly what happened.

     “Which means my knowledge of future events may not be as useful as I initially thought.” Rean ground his teeth. “And there’s no telling how much things may have changed. That’s something I may to ask Crow about later when I see him.”

(Later that night)

     The meal at Sorciere was a private affair; Hammond reserved the upper lounge just for Jusis and his friends. Fianna took it upon herself to pretty up the younger girl by taking her to get a new dress. It was colored a muted green, coming to just below her knees, and thankfully went with a pair of sensible flats. Rean hadn’t thought it possible at this point in her life to even get Fie into a dress, but she looked remarkably natural in it. Not to mention, Fianna had brushed her hair and even applied a slight bit of makeup, but not too much. Fie looked like a completely different person.

     “I still can’t believe I was forced into this!” She muttered under her breath as she fingered her hair. “Xeno and Leo would never let me hear the end of it!” Fie glared at Rean. “And I can only imagine what you’re thinking about!” The Ashen Chevalier just serenely smiled as he sipped some water. He could only imagine what Fie would look like once she had grown up a little bit, maybe grown her hair out some. Fie would be a natural beauty.  

     “I have no idea what you’re talking about, Fie. I think you actually look quite nice, and I’m fairly certain Rutger and the other guys would agree with me.” He said.

     Fie just rolled her eyes as she moved in on her meal. At least the food was good, a far cry from the slop in the mess tent or even worse, week-old MREs. “So what’s going to happen to those Bugbear dorks?” She asked as she cut into the fried halibut she had ordered. “I mean, they sure bit off more than they could chew.”

     “They’re being moved to Fort Aurochs for the foreseeable future,” Jusis replied, putting some butter on a roll. “They’ll probably end up serving some prison time, but I imagine they’ll get out before too long.” Rean’s expression darkened slightly. Not because Bugbear was a threat, but let’s not worry ourselves with such things. This is a time to enjoy ourselves, so eat as much as you desire.”

     Fianna herself was in a sizzling ankle-length number, colored a brilliant red with gold accents. She had tall four-inch heels also in gold. Her jewelry was minimal, a gold bracelet and a necklace that contained what appeared to be a ruby fox pendant. It was sleeveless, revealing her toned, fit arms and her flawless back. She was making quick work of a well-crafted fruit salad. “I’ll give your uncle credit, Lord Jusis, he is a spectacular chef. The food is some of the best I’ve ever had!”

     Jusis beamed. “That’s the highest compliment you can give him, Miss Merrigold. He’ll be very pleased to know his food is so appreciated.” He looked over his shoulder to see Hammond with his arms folded and his usual stern expression, but if he looked close enough, he could see his uncle’s lips twitch upward just slightly. 

     “I’ll second that. The food may be high quality, but it tastes just like my mom’s own home cooking.” Rean thought of Lucia; he really did yearn for it in that moment.

     “Mine as well. Mom is an extremely busy woman, but she always found time to cook dinner for Dad and I.” Fianna’s hand went to the fox head-shaped pendant around her neck. “Joining Arc En Ciel has always been a dream of mine, and I moved out to Crossbell to be there. But there’s a part of me that always misses our humble little house outside of Heimdallr. That will always be home.”

     “Good to know you aren’t forgetting where you came from, Miss Merrigold.” Master Ka-Fai remarked, nursing a very fine Remiferian craft beer. “It’s the simple things in life that are the real treasures. It’s something that all four of you kids can take to heart.”

     “Will General Artorum be joining us?” Fianna asked as she took a roll from the basket that had been passed around. “I do recall inviting him to this little gathering as well.”

     “He’ll be along soon enough. The amount of paperwork this whole attempted kidnapping incident created was going to take him a while to burn through, but he said he’d be along soon enough.” Jusis trailed off at the sound of footsteps coming up the stairs. Owen had arrived, but he hadn’t come alone. Along with a coterie of Provincial Army soldiers were two dignified-looking men.

     One was tall and dignified with long blonde hair tied in a ponytail, and pale blue eyes. He wore a double-breasted overcoat colored a deep basil green, trimmed in gold with khaki pants and tall brown lace-up boots. He carried himself with poise and eloquence, and a warm smile to Jusis. “Good evening to you, brother dearest. I trust you’re enjoying yourself?” Rean’s eyes narrowed slightly as Rufus Albarea, Jusis’s older brother spoke. He eyed Fianna, who playfully waved at him. “And what company you keep?”

     “Uh, yes, brother.” Jusis quickly found his voice. “Everyone, this is my older brother, Rufus Albarea.” He said quickly.

     “So nice to make your acquaintance then, Lord Rufus.” Fianna drawled. 

     “Ah, so this is the lovely Flame Princess of Arc En Ciel?” He walked over and gently kissed Fianna’s hand. “It’s nice to finally meet you in person, Miss Merrigold. I’m sorry I was unable to attend your performance yesterday, but I’m afraid this is the price you pay for being nobility, constant work, and all. But someone has to do it.” Rean held his head up as Rufus directed his gaze to him. “And to you, other friends as well, I welcome you to our fair city.”

     “The honor is ours, Lord Rufus.” Rean stood up, offering a classic bow to the elder son of House Albarea. “My name is Rean Schwarzer. I believe you know my father.”

     “Ah, so you’re Teo’s boy! It’s been so long since I’ve been to Ymir.” Rufus looked positively delighted. “I trust the Baron and his wife are well then?”

     “Very much so, Lord Rufus. I’ll be more than willing to send them your well wishes in my next letter to them.” Jusis couldn’t help but approve of how smoothly Rean fell into the familiar role. Even if he wasn’t a true son of the Schwarzer family, Rean clearly had paid attention during his etiquette training. He cleared his throat. “And let me introduce you to my other companions, this is my master Yun Ka-Fai.”  

     Rufus arched an eyebrow. “The legendary Sword Hermit of the Eight Leaves? Well, this is quite the occasion,” he bowed slightly to the older man. “It’s a true honor to meet a swordsman of your renown, Master Ka-Fai. I imagine Rean has flourished under your tutelage.” Rean looked a little bashful even as Fie elbowed him in the side and Fianna giggled. The master just took another sip of his beer.

     “Indeed, he has. It’s amazing how far he’s come in the past few months, even, but the path of the blade is one that never truly stops, it’s an ongoing mission to improve one’s self, and I’m sure you can appreciate that yourself, Lord Rufus?”  

     The other man then cleared his throat. He was middle-aged, with greying blonde hair cut short, and a well-groomed thick mustache. His brown eyes carried a heavy air of disdain. Like Jusis and Rufus, he wore a green jacket trimmed in gold with tassels and white trousers, with a red sash around his shoulder, indicating his status as the leader of one of the four houses. Duke Helmut Albarea looked extremely annoyed at even having to be here.

     “Are we quite finished with this mincing?” The condescending tone in his voice made the entire mood shift as Helmut threw an irritating glare at his youngest son. “I’m supposed to be attending a meeting in Heimdallr, but then I find we have jaegers here?” He bit out that word like a curse. “Not to mention, you had them arrested? You should have shot them all on sight!” His gaze then shifted to Fie. “And you have the unmitigated gall to break bread with one of those filthy guns for hire?”

     Fie looked nonplussed, just taking another roll. “Oh, so you know who I am, then?”

     “Of course I do!” Helmut scoffed. “The daughter of that lowlife mercenary scum who dares call himself a king? Rutger Claussell only rules a kingdom of blood and death, and it’s all you will inherit!” Rean’s eyes narrowed at the duke’s words, he quickly side-eyed Fie, who, despite her usual dull stare, was slowly reaching for the butter knife on her napkin.

     “Now see here, father!” Jusis sprang to his feet. “I may have only known her for a day. But I owe Fie a great debt for bringing the whole mess with Bugbear to an expedient end. Her skill was a huge asset. It’s a disservice to speak about a capable ally in such a manner.” Fie’s respect for Jusis went up a few notches. It made Rean think of when Jusis told off his Helmut that, despite his personal animosity with Machias, he was still a classmate and would have Jusis’s support no matter what.

     “Pah! As if the rest of them are any better? Like a commoner who plays at being a noble and wields a heathen blade?” Helmut just turned up his lip in disgust as his eyes fell on both Rean and Master Ka-Fai. “A true noble son of Erebonia would never sully themselves in such a manner! Your father is an insult to the whole aristocracy to let that deluded old man fill your head with his foreigner claptrap!”

     Rean had a strong desire to go Ashen Ogre on the man and show him just what that foreigner claptrap could really do to him. But the Sword Hermit beat him to the punch, just letting out a low, hollow laugh. “And yet this commoner still has more nobility in his thumb than you do in your entire body, Your Grace.” He added a heavy dose of sarcasm. “It’s just typical noble double talk; you don’t mean a single word of it.” The old master’s eyes took on a steely quality. “Because if you truly did value your blue blood so much, then you would have cast out your own son long ago.” Master Ka-Fai pointed a gnarled finger at Jusis. “And we both know I’m right!”

     “Father.” Jusis didn’t want to believe it, but the way his sire looked at him, there was a place in his mind and heart that said Helmut Albarea would happily do it if he felt it would benefit him. 

     The air was heavy at that point and then Rufus stepped in. “Father please, Jusis makes a very valid point. It’s a bad idea to get on the bad side of those who have done a public service for our great city.” He gave an apologetic gaze to his brother and his guests. “It would be very beneficial to have them in our good graces.” The Duke of Kreuzen just grunted, turning on his heel before departing the lounge. Rufus cleared his throat, bowing deeply to them.

     “Please forgive our father, he went over the line. But rest assured you are always welcome here in Bareahard.” Rufus looked to Jusis. “You have made good friends, Jusis. Treasure them always. Now if you’ll excuse me I have other matters to attend to.” Rufus bowed and departed. Dinner resumed at a far muted pace, but Jusis was absolutely livid. He understood better than anyone the value of cultivating strong relationships.

     “The absolute nerve of that man!” He finally spoke up. “How dare he speak to the two of you in such a toxic fashion! Both of you proved your worth in that skirmish earlier. In my book, that makes the two of you solid allies.” Jusis looked to Rean and Fie with a new resolve. “I would gladly stand by you through any trouble. You can count on me being at Thors next year. Because I refuse to let anyone speak to those, I consider my friends that way, even my own blood!”

     Rean felt vindicated in that moment. Helmut had unknowingly pushed Jusis right into the Class VII fold. It was a harsh way of going about it, but now Jusis better understood the depths of his father’s own corruption. Still, he couldn’t help but feel sorry for his future classmate; the despair in his eyes was all too evident.

     It was Fianna of all people who got up and came to stand over Jusis, putting her hands on his shoulders and gently rubbing them. There was nothing flirtatious in this gesture; if anything, it gave Fianna the air of a caring older sister. “And that is true nobility in action right there. You are a far better person than your father could ever hope to be, Lord Jusis, so always keep that nobility in your heart. It will never fail you in the rough times. That’s what my father would say at least.”

     “Thank you for the kind words, Miss Merrigold,” Jusis said, grateful for the reassurance. Fianna gave him a light hug and sat back down.

     “Please, call me Fianna. All my friends do.” She looked to Rean and Fie. “And both of you can do the same as well. We all shared a deep moment in that little throwdown.” She held up her glass. “It can’t be taken away from us.”

     “Got that right, sister,” Fie said, and they all held their glasses up and clinked them together in a small toast.

     “I wasn’t expecting things to go this way, but it all came together rather well if you ask me,” Rean said as they finished the entrees, and dinner was brought out. He sighed. “It will be about time for us to get back on the road again. Even if your brother vouches for us, it’s probably not a good idea to hang around here too long.”

     “Sad but true, I’d worry about your safety.” Despite his somber nature, he did regard Rean with a look of gratitude. “I am glad we were able to meet, Rean Schwarzer. I truly never had a friend my own age before, and judging from the sound of things, I’ll make a few more in this Class VII. So I’m eager to see it for myself. Let me ask you, where will you go from here?”

     “There’s still five more of our classmates we need to check in on. I have no idea where Millium might be, but I know Elliot and Machias are in Heimdallr, and Crow is in Trista. He’s actually part of the prototype class meant to see if this whole idea of the Prince will work in the first place. Aside from that the only one left is Gaius, and he lives in Nord, so I guess we’re heading up north to the Highlands.”

     “Oh really?” Fianna leaned forward. “Then you won’t mind if I tag along, then? My father is up in the highlands for work, and I haven’t seen him in a very long time, so I may as well surprise him.”

     “I don’t have a problem with that,” Rean said. “But what about your tour for Arc-en-Ciel? I’m sure you have other performances, and I wouldn’t want you to miss it.”    

     Fianna just waved it off. “Oh, don’t worry about that. After this whole drama, I need a little break. I’ll speak to my agent when I return to the hotel, and we’ll get it all worked out.”

     “This just gets more and more interesting.” Fie leaned in. “I can’t wait to tell the boss about this!”

(Fort Aurochs, Early the Next Morning)

     The remaining half of Bugbear had been transferred to the dungeons at Fort Aurochs during the night. Their gear stripped from them, they were all looking a little smaller, but their egos hadn’t dissipated any. “Man, this blows!” A voice echoed through the cell as one of the would-be jaegers kicked at the wall. “I can’t believe we got put in here by a bunch of punk ass kids! The commander’s dead, and so many of our buddies are. This isn’t the end! When we get out of here, we’ll show them what Bugbear is really made of!” The sentiment was shared by many.

     “And then what happens? We get our asses kicked again?” The room went silent at those words. All eyes went to the jaeger lying in the corner. He stood up slowly. His black hair was unkempt, and his green eyes held nothing but irritation. “What makes any of you guys think that things will turn out differently? Need I remind you that the only reason we all banded together is that none of the other jaeger corps wanted us for being too incompetent?”

     “Easy for you to say, Wolfe. You managed to make it into Red Constellation! Not all of us had the luxury of hitting the big time so quickly!” Another shot back.

     “And it was the biggest mistake of my life!” The jaeger named Wolfe snapped, causing the other jaeger to shrink back. His eyes held intense anger, but also a deep sadness. “If I could take back any choice I made, it would be leaving home to join Orlando’s little cavalcade of thugs! I really hoped this would be a fresh start for me, that I could actually use my skills for some good. But it’s just more pain. Open your eyes, people! No one wanted us, no one! We probably deserve this fate, if humiliation is all we’re going to be served.”

     “Do you truly believe that?” The jaegers of Bugbear all looked up to see Jusis enter the room, his steps smooth and deliberate. “Because if you do, then you’re selling yourselves short. Whatever your perceived shortcomings might be, perhaps all you need is the right person to lead you.” Jusis kept his posture straight, but relaxed, his ice blue eyes sweeping over all of them. “Which of you is the one in charge here? I’ll speak to him.” The wannabe soldiers for hire all looked to each other before looking to the black-haired mercenary. He stepped up to the bars, looking the young noble square in the eye. “I trust you know who I am?”

     The mercenary folded his arms and nodded. “You’re Lord Jusis Albarea, son of Duke Helmut Albarea. Yeah, I know who you are, and not surprised that you and your friends thrashed us the way you did. I’m Sergeant Kirk Wolfe, acting commander of Bugbear, not that it matters much right now.” He leaned in close to the bars. “Just get right to the point, what do you want with us?” Jusis was unfazed by the glare Kirk gave him. The scion of the Albarea family merely gave his own firm stare back. Kirk noticed there was no disdain or contempt, but rather empathy.

     Jusis then smirked. “Straight to the point, I like that. Yes, you’ll do quite nicely. There’s potential there, and perhaps for the rest of your men as well. In many ways, you should be lucky it was me you came up against and not my older brother or my father. Especially the latter because he would have had all of you executed on sight. However, I am not my father. I’m here to give you a choice. You can either continue to follow your stubborn pride, and rot here in these cells for possibly the rest of your lives, because there’s no way in Gehenna I would let you out, or you can work for me and maybe make something of yourselves.”

     More than a few of Bugbear had gotten nervous when Jusis mentioned execution, but if there was a way out, then they would take it. “Keep talking,” Kirk said. He still wasn’t entirely convinced at this point, but he’d at least listen to Jusis’s pitch. It couldn’t be any worse than the ridiculous drek their previous commander had sold them about how they would become legends one day, and look where it got them.

     Jusis began walking up and down the cells, his gaze not breaking from any of the imprisoned soldiers. “I am all too aware my status as a noble projects a negative image, that all we care about is enjoying the luxuries of our station and acting like the rest of the world doesn’t matter. And yes, many other nobles are like that.” Jusis turned sharply to them. “But I am not like other nobles. Noblesse Oblige, nobility obliges, that means as a noble I have a responsibility to all those on my family’s lands. It’s why I stood against you in rescuing Miss Merrigold, and now that extends to you as well.”

     He hesitated a little, recalling the events of last night. “Recent occurrences have forced me to re-evaluate my position here in this province. I never really thought about it, but I really don’t have any real power or authority. After thinking about it, I want to hire Bugbear on a permanent basis.” The Jaegers all perked up, having a noble as a patron, and one of the Four Great Houses no less? They’d be set for life. “Rest assured, you will all be paid very well, and have access to the best equipment available.” Jusis’s expression hardened. “In turn, the ridiculous stunts will stop, and you will commit to your training fully. I’m a fair man, but I expect all of you to take your duties seriously. That isn’t much to ask.”

     Kirk inclined his head slightly. “So we’d basically become your personal security force then?” Jusis nodded. He looked to the rest of Bugbear. Their earlier despondency was replaced by anticipation and a burning hope to make better of themselves. “It’s admittedly a very enticing offer, Lord Albarea, but if we agree to this, then I want it in writing. Even if we’re not very good jaegers, we are still jaegers, and this is basically a formal contract. So, I won’t agree to anything unless it’s on a printed page.”

     Jusis just reached into his coat and pulled out a sheet of paper and a pen. “I already had my lawyer draw it up.” He stuck both through the bars. “By all means, look it over, and then all it requires is your signature.” Kirk plucked the contract and pen out of his fingers and began reading it. One thing he was glad he picked up from Red Constellation was to ALWAYS read the contract. He read it twice just to be sure, and it all seemed pretty fair in his eyes. He looked at Jusis and then walked to the middle of the cell.

     Everyone surrounded him as he held the contract in the air. “What do you think, boys?” Kirk said loudly. “This is solid paying work. We just need to nut up and not follow any more delusions of grandeur.” He took a breath, speaking quieter now. “This is our best chance for success, and all we have to do is our job. I think we can manage that.”

     “It beats rotting in a cell for all eternity.” One Jaeger said. “Or getting shot!” Another added.

     Kirk looked to each of them; their decision had been made. He looked at Jusis and smirked. “Lord Albarea, you have a deal!” The Bugbear operatives let out a cheer as Kirk took the paper to the wall and put his signature on it.

     Jusis nodded in approval, turning to the Provincial Army soldier standing at guard. “Let them out. I’ll take responsibility for them now.” He spoke. The soldier looked a little wary, but he did as he was told and let the jaegers out. They all fell into step behind Kirk, and saluted their new commander.

(The Following Day, Bareahard Station)

     “A nine-hour trip to the Nord Highlands.” Fie yawned. “At least I’ll get a really good nap out of it.” All three of them stood on the train platform, waiting to catch an early train to Celdic, from there they would travel to the Vermillion Capital, Heimdallr, before catching another train that would take them up north to Roer, before the final leg of the journey all the way to Zender Gate, the beginning of the Highlands.

     “Glad you have your priorities straight, Fie.” Rean was checking a copy of the map he picked up at the ticket counter. Although it did make him wonder if they shouldn’t have some kind of entertainment for the long journey ahead of them. He had fond memories of playing Blade during the train rides to their field studies. Even if they didn’t have that, a simple deck of playing cards could give plenty of enjoyment. So Rean went back to the ticket counter, and sure enough, he found decks on sale.

     He walked back, flipping the box of cards into his hand before stuffing it into his pocket. Fianna approached him, wheeling a single suitcase. “Hello there, Fianna.” He said, taking note of her choice of attire, it was amazingly modest, a red short-sleeved shirt and white capris with brown ankle-length boots. She wore the fox pendant from last night, the brilliant red stone gleaming in the morning sun. “That’s a beautiful piece of jewelry.” He tried making conversation as the two of them approached where Fie and Master Ka-Fai were sitting. “Is that a fire quartz?”

     “Yes, it is!” Fianna’s fingers ran over it, her blue eyes a shining contrast to the brilliant ruby sheen of the elaborately cut crystal. “It was a gift from my dad for my ninth birthday. So, it holds a lot of value to me. He actually had it made right here in Bareahard.”

     “He must care a lot about you then,” Rean said, grateful to know that Fianna had a stable home life. “It must have worried him greatly to let you go all the way to Crossbell to join Arc En Ciel.”

     Fianna shook her head. “Both of my parents have been nothing but supportive of me. My mother was even tickled by the fact that I wanted to use her maiden name as my stage name. They both agreed it would give me an extra layer of protection when I was outside the confines of the Empire. Both of my parents are very influential figures, despite Bugbear’s failures, there are plenty who would probably try to kidnap me and gain some leverage.”

     Her hand went back to the fox pendant. “That comes with being the daughter of Mark Lamperouge, I suppose.”