《Fire Emblem: The Lion's Blade》 Chapter 1: Prides Chosen "Are you awake young man?" A voice asks, monotone. Opening my eyes, I see a bright white figure sitting across from me. I squint my eyes to try to take in any features they might have but nothing stands out. I look around the room as I speak to answer his question. "Where am I? I remember going to sleep in my bed last night and now I''m in this strange¡­ office?" I say taking in the room. Four white walls that don''t have any sort of decorations on them as well as a plain looking table. The chair the figure is sitting in looks to be just an ordinary kitchen table chair. After I finish looking around, I turn my attention back to the figure. I notice him standing up and pacing back and forth by his chair. "You died last night." He says nonchalantly as if it was him telling me the weather. "W-what do you mean I d-died? I''m si-sitting right here with you!" I say agitated by the attitude he gave off. "I don''t know where the cameras are in this room, but I did not sign an agreement to be filmed." My eyes follow the figure as he walks to walk of the walls and snaps their fingers. A painting appears, one of a room. The room looks oddly familiar to the room I''m supposed to be sleeping in. I think I can see myself in the bed too. Black hair and sleeping with my back to the window. "How''d you get such an accurate painting of my room?" "Now now. I can''t answer your questions if you ask too many at a time. Let''s answer your first one; you died. You were killed in your sleep. You left your window unlocked and a killer entered your house." He stops talking and points to the painting with my room on it. "You can see what happened there for yourself." The painting that was completely still a moment ago comes to life. A shadowy figure is standing outside the window. He uses a crowbar to leverage the window up after testing it to see if it was open. As he opens the window there''s movement on the bed. My heart drops as I watch the figure moving on the bed. That hair and the beard that along with the constant tossing and turning. That''s me! The killer speeds up his actions while watching the figure toss and turn. Instead of waking up I stop moving and stay still. "Wa-wait ca-can we wake me up? Be-before he does anything?" The figure looks towards my direction and shakes his head. "Sadly, young one, your fate is already sealed since you are here." I turn my attention back to the painting seeing the figure in the room. He takes out a scalpel and I feel my body drop. I try to exhale, but I can''t breathe. I feel a sharp prick on my neck. The me in the painting wakes up but its too late. Blood starts flowing from our neck. I put a hand to my neck to try and stop the blood, but I can''t. I can''t. I can''t. I can''t. I CAN''T! The figure pats my back and says calmly "Breathe. You''re alright now lad. He can''t get you here. No one can get you here. You''re safe. Now look at me and breathe in and out." In, out, in, out. "That''s good. Typically, we don''t show these images to those that have passed away. The mind locks away anything that it considers a threat to its self-preservation, but you would have lingering doubts if we didn''t do this for you. We apologize for this experience we put you through." "It''s alright. It''s not everyday you see something so¡­ terrifying. I never thought that would be how I would die." I say with a grimace on my face.Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there. "Naturally no human would expect their end to come at the hands of others. At least not in your time." The figure says. "Now we must move on to the reason you''re here." The figure says moving back to his simple chair and sitting down. "You have been given an opportunity. Your soul will be inserted into another body and you will be given a second chance at life." I perk up at the sound of another chance. "This time I won''t be weak. This time I won''t get caught unaware. When I die in this life I''ll be known as the strongest person in the world." I say with a resolute face. The figure stops for a moment and I can see a smirk starting to form on his face. "We will not be placing you back in your old world. Rather we will be placing you in another one. We can choose for you or you can pick one yourself. As long as we have not sent another there; your request will be accepted." The figure says looking back at the papers in front of him. "So, any questions?" "Yes, I have one. What are you?" I reply. "Are you God or the truth?" The figure hears this and looks back up from its papers. "We suppose you could call us the observers. We do not interfere in the actions of man. We only wish to watch and learn. We understand many things, but there are certain things that keep us entertained. We wish to experience the world through the eyes of a human. We observe humans due to their difference from one another. For example, the life you led was rather ordinary, but that killer was anything but ordinary. We want to observe the reason behind the differences each human has. Why they are not like each other like we observers are to each other. Two humans that walked different lives have reached a single defining moment in their lives. We wish to see the reason behind these actions of your kind." He says almost beaming with pride. "You are spectators in life because you want to see what makes humans unique?" The figure lets out a sigh and says "Yes. We apologize. We tend to get long winded when we speak about certain topics." The figure stops and turns back to his papers. "Now then is there a world you would like to be sent to? You can decide on the timeline as well if you wish." "Well a world I''d like to go to is the world of Fire Emblem." The figure looks up from his paper and looks towards the youth. "Hmm, you''re the first person I''ve heard that wants to go there..." The figure''s face starts to move, and a smirk can be seen from the way the bottom of it''s face moves. "Yes, that should work fine. Which region or timeline would you like to be in?" "I''d like to be placed 20 years before the events of Fire Emblem the Blazing Sword." I say with a smile on my face remembering all the characters from the game. Remembering about Nergal and the Black Fang, "Please place me in Bern close to Bernard." The figure returns to the papers. "It looks like we can arrange that. Now as we are trying to observe how humans would grow within different circumstances, we will grant you the assistance of a system with some added features. Is there a specific one you''d like?" The figure says with his smirk growing eerily wider. "I''d like The Gamer system if possible." I reply trying to look as confident as possible. With that system I''d become the strongest person in that world. I can live a carefree life. I could also prevent Hector''s death at Zephyr''s order. That''s too far into the future to think about now though. First I have to worry about being able to protect myself. "That system isn''t going to work in that world. The rules do not fit. As such we will modify it to best fit that world. That way your wish will still be granted, but it will not have all the features shown in that series." The figure begins to write on a piece of paper. They take a few minutes and receive another piece of paper on their desk. "The system and the modifications we''ve put forward have been accepted. As the system you requested could not be granted, we have taken the liberty of granting you a starter pack in your inventory along with a few other benefits." The figure finishes up with his paper and hands it to me. "Now then¡­ Good luck out there lad." "Wai-" My voice is cut off and I''m thrown through a portal that opens up beneath me. "SON OF A-" Chapter 2: Character Creation ''-BITCH!'' I yell out as a feel a tugging sensation on my body. ''What the hell is this?'' I stop feeling the sensation and turn my attention to my surroundings. ''I''m supposed to be in Bern¡­ This is definitely not it.'' A completely dark room; my body feels like its stuck under water. I can''t move and I''m. getting. tired. ''I suppose a nap would be fine right now.'' Closing my eyes, I begin to take a nap. -------------------------- "Ah. We forgot to wipe his memory of this place. We will have to fix that the next time he arrives." The figure says looking up from the portal that opened. "Well it should be interesting, nonetheless. Don''t disappoint us again lad." The figure returns to his chair and as a new human enters the room. The young lady is asleep in her chair and the pale figure shakes his head clearing its mind. Time to start another''s journey. "Are you awake, young one?" ---------------------------- I open my eyes but instead of a pitch-black room greeting me it''s a game window screen. [Welcome to the modified Gamer system! You''ll be asked a few questions to choose your class, race, and other information that will be required.] Okay. Great good to know it''s working. Let''s see¡­ hopefully the system doesn''t decide to randomly decide to gain a personality. I''d rather not have a sarcastic system or one that calls me onii-chan. That''s just weird. [Now for the first question please enter your name.] Alright that''s simple I''ll just use my name¡­ Wait I can''t remember it. Why can''t I remember my name? "System can you tell me my name?" [System requires the host to input their own name.] "Well shit. Let''s just go with something simple that would fit Fire Emblem. Let''s go with Percival." I nod impressed with my ability to come up with names. [Please answer the following questions: For your past are you a: merchant''s child, clergy''s child, orphan, farmer''s child or a noble''s child?] "What is the significance of these options?" I say looking at the options before me. It looks familiar to the avatar creation in the Marth Fire Emblem game. [System is not allowed to say. Please answer to the best of your ability.] "Well I''ll choose orphan." If I remember correctly the stat growths and stat bonuses are affected by these questions and orphan was one of the better choices. [Would you consider yourself: Beautiful, Wise, Diverse, Kind, or Strong?] "I would consider myself diverse." I did do a lot of different jobs when I was alive. I was a cashier for a bit, I owned my own business, I went to college. That''s probably the best thing to use to describe myself. [For the final question what would you like to be in the future: Humanitarian, Honorable, Truth-seeker, Rich, or a Recluse?] "I always chose honorable whenever I created my avatar, so I''ll go with that again." I say reminiscing the memories I had with that character.This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. [Thank you for your input in these questions. Now let us move on to the race you can become. Only the races in Fire Emblem are available to you. Please choose wisely as this choice cannot be changed later.] "Could you show me a list of the different races I can be?" [Certainly, the options are: Beorc Laguz Manakete Kitsune Branded Taguel Morph Monster Wolfskin.] "Can I choose what type of manakete, laguz or branded I can become or are those decided for me?" [As the manakete are the strongest race, their race choice for you will be randomly selected. The branded will also be picked randomly from the list of Laguz available. The laguz can be chosen freely.] Hmm¡­ picking manakete would make me rely on dragonstones and would also have Nergal on my back. So that option is out. A laguz is out simply because I''m not a furry. So that leaves branded. Hopefully I get something powerful like Soren''s genius or the Black Knight''s speed and strength. If it''s useless like magic resistance or Micaiah''s sacrifice ability. I wouldn''t know what to do other than sigh in exasperation. It would just paint a larger target on my back. But there is one major problem with being branded. "Can I choose where the brand is?" [The brand is assigned at birth. You cannot choose where it will be located.] "Fuck." Hopefully it''s in a hidden spot, instead of somewhere obvious like my forehead. "¡­I just jinxed myself, didn''t I?" [The System does not believe in jinxes. Please remember that everything that happens is purely coincidence.] "Uh huh." It''s going to be on my forehead. Damn it. No use complaining, it''ll still be useful for avoiding Nergal if it ends up there. "I choose to be branded. What''s next? I have to choose my class, right?" [Host is correct. Please choose the class system you''d like to apply.] "Do you mean I get to choose which regions classes I can use? Does that mean I can''t reclass if I don''t pick the post Awakening systems?" [Host is not locked out of the other systems. This is merely to choose which class you will originally start with. It will decide your proficiency in weapons mainly. You may select any region and you will not be locked out of reclassing.] "It wouldn''t be much of a system if I couldn''t reclass whenever I felt like." I grumble to myself. "That should be fine. I want to choose the Tellius region. They had the best system by far." I say with excitement in my voice. [Please choose a class from that region. Host may select any non-lord class.] "Why can''t I select a lord-based class?" I ask disappointed I can''t just run around as a vanguard like Ike. [Host may not select it due to their choice to be an orphan. You may unlock the class later when you receive enough system points to remove that restraint.] Smug bastard. Hiding the best parts away from me. Everyone wants to be a vanguard, it''s the most badass class. "I select Trueblade." I say with a smirk on my face. [Host cannot choose a promoted class. Host must choose a base class and raise through the ranks. Please select a class.] Damn couldn''t just get to Trueblade like that. "I''ll go with myrmidon then." Thanks, Navarre, for making one of the most broken classes in the games. I can make up for their low defense and hp by reclassing into a knight or a cavalier. [Host has finished character creation. Please select appearance.] In front of me appear portraits of different people. I can see Ike, Ephriam, Erika, Byleth and a few others from the list. "Is there an appearance I can''t select? Can I create my own?" [Host can make his own appearance. The appearances in front of host are pre-selected due to being part of the Fire Emblem universe.] Let''s see I could make my own appearance, or I could use a preset one and change it a bit¡­ I move the screen in front of me to Deen from Echoes: Shadows of Valentia. I skip to the remake''s version of him rather than the original design. The remake looks much better. I change his hair to black and keeping the scar. Hopefully that doesn''t come back to bite me. In front of me is a man with black hair and golden eyes. A tall man about 6 feet 2 inches. Not very muscular, but he is lean to make for it considering he is a myrmidon. "This should work. I''m finished with my appearance." [Good luck Host.] The mirror disappears and the walls around me started to shake and so do I. A jolt goes through my body as an axe penetrates the walls my body was safe behind. ''For fucks sakes.'' Chapter 3: First Day Pains The axe smashes through the walls like butter and cuts close to my face. ''Holy shit I just started my journey you can''t just do this!'' I try to move away but I can''t seem to move. My limbs aren''t responding in the way they are supposed to. ''Fuck, fuck, fuck.'' The axe leaves the box and I can see out through the hole it left. A sword pierces through the hole and takes my left eye with it. ''AH FUCK I FORGOT ABOUT THE SCAR!'' I lose all control and start crying. The pain is too much to bear. "Hmm? What''s that noise?" A childish voice asks faintly from outside. I can''t keep focus it hurts so much. My crying grows louder as the light from the outside world shines in. "Oh no!" A pair of hands grab my small body and pull me closer to it. "DAD I NEED A HEALER!" The child voice yells out as he moves away from the corpse. A rough voice rings out over the sounds of combat "Where are you hurt Lloyd!?". Panic clear in the old man''s voice. "It''s not me this child got hurt. He''s bleeding badly. We need one for him!" Lloyd reaches the old man who shouts for the closest healer. "Teodor quickly over here!" As he finishes the command he returns to the battlefield. Teodor arrives beside Lloyd holding a staff. "Are you certain you want to use a charge on this child?" "Do it. If we can''t save a kid, then what''s the point of killing all those nobles?" Lloyd replies with a resolute face on. The staff shines bright as the spell held within is cast. The wound on the child''s eye is sealed. Lloyd moves to wipe the blood off. He keeps his eyes on the child to make sure nothing else is wrong. "Can we save his eye or is it gone?" "The staff is only capable of sealing wounds. It is not capable of returning them to point it was before injury. We''d need a more powerful staff for that to treat this wound. It''s too late as it is anyway. We only had this on hand." Teodor replies somberly. The child stops crying and turns his eye towards the two beings around him. Before he can think any further about his lost eye, he hears steel clashing against each other. He turns his head towards that sound and looks out to see a hulking man decapitate an axe wielding bandit. Further behind the hulking figure two horsemen are rampaging through the archer line. Not even one of them stands a chance before they end up skewered on the lances that they wield. "Jan take out those bandits on the right flank!"Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel. My attention is turned back towards the hulking figure belting out commands. The other person beside him rushes towards two bandits and takes the first out with a swift overhead swing of his axe to their head. The second bandit seeing this as an opportunity dashes forward to take out the man named Jan. Seeing this coming he releases the axe he had in the other ones head and sidesteps the bandits swing. Jan moves forward and launches a punch right into that bandit''s solar plexus. The bandit releases his weapon and Jan grabs it and strikes it into his foe''s neck. My attention is taken away when I hear screaming coming from the hulking figure''s direction. When I look over, I see him finishing off a bandit with a blade through the bandit''s throat. He really killed them. He did it so easily too. I... I must get that strong. I need to get strong. I don''t want to end up like those bandits. I''ll be strong enough to prevent Nergal''s plans. Hell, I might even do something about Zephyr. ''What did I get myself into?'' After surveying the battlefield, the warriors return to Teodor and Lloyd. They look between Lloyd and I. The hulking figure looks towards my missing eye and gets a somber smile on his face. "A mistake Lloyd?" The boy holding me grips me tighter and I look up to his face. A dirty blonde-haired child barely 9. His blue eyes staring into my eye as his eyes start to well with tears. "Yes dad." The boy says with tears streaking down his face. ''Ah come on now. You can''t do this to me.'' I try to move my hand and place it on his face. I pat his face, but instead of getting happier the tears start flowing faster. ''Come on kid no need to cry that hard.'' I say out loud, but what comes out instead is baby noises. "Oi Brendan look, the kid''s trying to comfort Lloyd." Jan says while laughing to himself. Brendan, the hulking figure, seeing this also bursts out into laughter. "HAHA Lloyd no need to beat yourself over it. The kid forgives you for it!" He stops his laughter and gets a serious glint in his eyes. "What did I tell you about making mistakes boy?" "Yo-you sa-said w-we lear-learn from them." He replies. He stops his crying and turns back to his father. "I won''t make this mistake again!" "Attaboy. Now then let''s return to the camp. Linus probably misses you already. I don''t know why that kid so attached to you instead of me. I''m his father." Brendan grumbles to himself. "It''s because you keep making him try to learn the axe instead of the sword like he wants." Jan replies with his arms crossed, as if he said something truly wise. "He''d do more work with the axe considering his strength. Tsk." Brendan turns away from the group and begins to walk away. "Dad you''re going the wrong way." Lloyd looks at his dad with disappointment in his eyes. Brendan turns around and heads in the opposite direction. "That''s still the wrong way." This time Jan quipped. "Alright then if you two are so smart lead the way back to the base then!" Brendan says with a tick mark on his head. I started giggling at his antics. His plan of cheering up Lloyd looked to be working. Lloyd started laughing with and so did Jan. The other three had faint smiles on their faces. Chapter 4: Testing My Luck! On our way back to the Black Fang base I decided to look at my system''s abilities. ''System show me the menu.'' [Of course, Host.] [MENU] Stats Abilities Classes Lottery Shop Inventory Summons [Host can access these options by thinking about it. Please be aware of the gifts given to you are stored in your inventory.] ''Gifts? Open inventory.'' [Starter Pack x1, Lottery Ticket x10.] ''System are the lottery tickets guaranteed items or is there a chance of getting nothing from it?'' [The system will consume the lottery ticket at use. The worst outcome of a lottery ticket usage is receiving a curse.] ''Can the curse I receive be removed?'' [Host can remove the curse via system points. Host can also heal his injured eye via system points.] ''Wait how much does it cost to fix my eye?'' [Calculating¡­ It would cost 15,000 System Points or 150,000 gold.] ''Good to know. It should be easy enough to get within the Black Fang. Can I purchase any unique eye abilities?'' [Host can purchase eye abilities from other series when Host has enough points or gold to exchange for them.] ''Ok, how much is the cheapest eye ability?'' [The Retaining Eyes, which allows you to remember everything you''ve seen. They would be 200,000 System Points.] ''Why do they cost so much? All they do is let me remember everything I''ve seen. The rinnegan isn''t cheaper than it is it?'' [The system applies prices to the abilities it sells based on the rarity and the world you are in. Since you are in Fire Emblem, eye abilities do not exist here. So, they naturally will be higher to break the rules of the world.] ''Hopefully, system points aren''t hard to get¡­ How do I get them anyway?'' [Host is rewarded system points via battles and completing objectives the system sets.] ''Ok sounds easy enough. Open the starter pack please.'' [Starter pack is opening¡­ Pack contains the following items A training sword The skill "Paragon" The skill doubles all experience. The skill "Despoil" The skill Host obtains a Bullion (S) if they defeat an enemy. Based on Luck.] ''Nice! I got Paragon! This should make it much easier to get to Trueblade. System please put up the lottery screen.'' In front of me appears a giant wheel that''s color-coordinated. I look down towards my feet and notice I''m not a child as I''m supposed to be. ''System, why am I in an adult form?'' [The Host would have a more enjoyable experience if he inserted the tickets and pulled the lever himself to receive his rewards.] "I didn''t think my gambler side would come out this early in this world. Turns out I can''t escape it no matter what. Hopefully this time I don''t lose my savings." I say with a grin forming on my face. The wheel is split into 9 colors: red, blue, green, silver, black, purple, gold, orange, and pink. The largest-sized portion of the circle is the part colored green, while the smallest is the pink part.This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. "System what do the colors mean?" [Red signifies skills that will assist you in battle. Blue are skills that assist you in growth. Green are healing skills and items. Silver is rare consumable items. Black is cursed weapons and armors. Purple is rare items from the shop. Gold are valuables that can be traded in for system points or for gold. Orange is are classed based items. Pink are items that will raise your support with the people you interact with.] "I''d like to use my 10 lottery tickets to spin the machine." [Please insert the tickets and pull the level.] I insert the ten tickets and pull it. The circle spins for 5 seconds and lands on growth skills. [Host has received the growth skill "Aptitude". Host now has added 20% to their growth rates.] "Sweet! That''s the best skill from Awakening! Already doing better here than in my first life!" I say excited while pulling the level again. Another spin passes by¡­ [Host has received a rare shop item! Please confirm if Host would like to apply or sell back to the system.] "Well, what is the power?" The system waits a few minutes. Getting impatient I reply, "Well what is it?" [Host must decide before seeing what the power is.] Wait a second, it''s definitely trying to hide something that''s going to screw me over. "Please show me the skill like you did with the other abilities." The system''s trying to hide something here. [Host has received the ability "Sweat Seduction" from Hamatora. Host can attra-] "Sell it. Get rid of it now." [Host please consider the bene-] "I said sell it. I don''t want that skill anywhere near me." I''d rather not have a skill that only seduces men with my sweat. No thank you. Absolutely not. Especially considering how powerful some of these guys are. I don''t want them having urges like that. [Host has received 1,000 System Points in exchange for the skill.] "Good. Delete it from the shop too." [I cannot do that Host.] "Tsk." I pull the level again to and pray I don''t get that skill again. The circle spins again and lands on black. [Host has received the Black Demon Series blade Noya.] A cursed blade containing a demon¡­ Nope. "Sell it. I don''t want to rely on a demon for power. I also like getting my sleep and not being tortured in my dreams." [Host has sold the cursed blade for 150,000 System Points.] "Wait why was it worth so much?" [Host receives 10% of the value of the item. Considering it is a Black Demon Series blade it''s worth is naturally much higher than any weapon in the Host''s current world. It contained a demon that would be considered one of the strongest beings in this one.] I suppose it''s a good thing I got rid of it. Having to deal with a demon constantly trying to possess me sounds like a terrible pass time. "On to the next spin I suppose." [Host has landed on Valuable items and skills. Host has received skill "Retirement Fund". For any currency the host has access to the Host receives a 1% increase at the end of the day.] My mouth drops open and I''m stunned for a moment. "Where were these benefits back on Earth. This would have made me the richest man! I definitely can find some uses for that in this world." With a wide smile on my face I pull the lever again. [Host has received the Black Fang Necklace.] I pull out the necklace and see it''s just a ebony fang with a chain attached to it. "Observe." [Black Fang Necklace While equipped the wearer gains relations with members of the Black Fang faster. They also have a higher chance of listening to the wearer''s request.] This will help a lot with getting closer to the others before Nergal appears and ruins them. I equip the necklace and look back to the lever and pull. The circle spins and lands on the Rare shop items again. ''Please don''t be sweat seduction. Please for all that is holy don''t be that skill. [Host has received Summon Ticket x1. Host can use this ticket to unlock the skill Summon Zelgius the Black Knight. At early levels Host may only summon him in their Instant Dungeon. At higher levels the Host can summon him outside into the world.] "Nice! With him at my side the levelling process should grow so much quicker. Especially since he''s one of the best swordsmen from his era. Second to Gawain, but still one of the best. Let''s go for another spin!" I should have four more spins to go. Should I save them or use them now? I might as well get them out the of the way now. I might get something useful. I spin the last four wheels to see what I get. [Host has received Maturity Drop x1 Host has received skill "Unbreakable" Any weapon the host wields does not lose durability. Host has received Afa Drop x1 Host has received Summon Ticket Gawain the Divine Knight.] "Wow I wish I had this luck in my other life." --------------------- The child could be seen pulling Lloyd''s nose. His face is changing from disappointment to a serious look to a constant giggle. "Look at that, boy, the kid''s attached to you! I hope you don''t plan on tossing him to the curb now." Brendan says laughing loudly. "Come on you can let go of my nose now." Lloyd says pleading to the child, who only giggles louder and squeezes his nose tighter. Chapter 5: The Mad Dog "We''re finally here!" I jump at the loud voice and try to give him a stink eye. Brendan looks over to me and laughs. "Kid''s already got the balls to go against the boss!" Jan says snickering. "Wait till he''s old enough. We''ll see how long he can keep that up with the training he''s going to go through!" Brendan says with an evil grin on his face. "Dad! Lloyd! You''re back!" Breaking of the staring competition me and the old man put on, I see a short chubby kid run up to the group. He couldn''t be more than 6 years old. At his side is a training sword unfit for his height. The sword was dragging along the ground as he was running up. "Linus! What did I tell you about dragging your sword around? Put it away while Uhai hasn''t seen you!" Lloyd says smiling. "Did someone call me?" A man with features of a nomad from Sacae appeared. He looks to be about 20 or so. He looks towards the group of men and then towards Linus. Linus seeing this, panic, and holds the sword and moves it towards his shoulder off the ground. Uhai nods his head seeing his actions. "Treat your blade with respect. It will determine life from death." *SMACK!* Brendan can be seen patting Uhai on the back. "How did your mission go Hawk?" He asks looking off in the distance. "No problems. They did not stand a chance against the might of the Black Fang. His gold was distributed to the common folk as well before we burned it down." "Good work. Did you bring any with you for drinks?" Brendan says with a grin. Uhai looks at Brendan and shakes his head. "The gold belongs to the common folk. Not to be wasted on drinks." Brendan gives him another smack on the back and shakes his head. "If you''re serious all the time you won''t be able to enjoy life, Hawk. Well let''s get inside. Uhai do you know how to take care of a kid?" "No?" Uhai says looking back to the group and noticing the child Lloyd is holding. "Wait whose child did you kidnap?" He says looking at Brendan with suspicion. "We saved him from some slavers. Kid lost an eye in the fight. It should be fine as long as he get''s used to it." Brendan says walking past the gate of the camp. Uhai walks up to the Lloyd and looks at the child. "Hmm¡­ He doesn''t appear to be a child of the Elibe continent." He looks closer at the child and the wound on his eye. "Let''s get that bandaged up to prevent infections." He says lifting the child from Lloyd''s hands and taking him to a building. Lloyd follows behind Uhai with guilt clear on his face, while Linus follows behind Lloyd. "Lloyd are we getting a younger brother?" Clear excitement on his face as he watches the child with sparkles in his eyes. "If dad let''s us keep him and train him as member we''ll probably get another brother."Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. "Do you think he''ll be stronger than us?" "I don''t think so. We wouldn''t be good older brothers if we can''t protect him." Behind them the Brendan looks at the two with a gentle smile on his face. ''Looks like these two got your personality, love.'' ----------- ''Oh man, Uhai was such a badass character. I hope I can manage to convince him to join us against Nergal later. Even though he didn''t agree with Nergal, he still listened to Brendan''s orders. I don''t actually have a plan to convince them¡­'' ''I can always ask Zelgius and Gawain what they would do. Those two have a world''s worth of knowledge. For now, let''s worry about getting strong enough to be able to contest against Nergal.'' ''System show me my points.'' [Host has: System Points: 151,000 Gold: 0] ''I can fix my eye now¡­'' [Host please be advised if you fix your eye now you will have to go through the pain of your body reacting to this change. As well as your body will experience the pain of losing an eye and re-growing it when you buy eye abilities.] ''Well let''s set a goal then for an eye ability then. Show me ones that would help me in combat.'' [Certainly Host: Mystic Eye - Charm ¨C 50,000,000 Byakugan ¨C 50,000,000 Mystic Eye ¨C Binding ¨C 100,000,000 Sharingan ¨C 100,000,000 Mystic Eye - Compulsion ¨C 125,000,000 Glam Sight: Fairy Eyes ¨C 200,000,000 Mystic Eye Petrification ¨C 250,000,000 Mangekyo Sharingan ¨C 1,000,000,000 Tenseigan ¨C 5,000,000,000 Mystic Eyes of Death Perception ¨C 50,000,000,000 Empyrean Eye ¨C 100,000,000,000 Rinnegan ¨C 100,000,000,000 All Seeing Eyes of God ¨C 100,000,000,000] ''Okay. Well, I have no clue how I''m going to get close to any of these. I don''t know which one I should aim for¡­'' ''It''s between Fairy Eyes and Empyrean Eye though. Fairy Eyes would help me keep track of any movements my opponents make. Empyrean Eyes would just make whatever outcome I want to happen come true.'' [Host would also have to purchase magecraft capable body that would power those eyes.] ''How much would that cost?'' [Calculating one capable of powering those abilities¡­ 5,000,000,000] ''Just rob me! It''d be easier than scamming me!'' [Those abilities do not fit in this world. Their cost will be higher due to the rules broken.] Sigh. ''I won''t be able to get them just moping around. ''Ok easy enough. I''ll focus on getting system points for weapons and class upgrades.'' -------- "There. His eye should be covered enough to prevent an infection. So, who is going to take care of him?" Uhai says looking towards Lloyd and Linus. "Dad is going to look after him! He''s going to make him one of the strongest people in the world like me and Lloyd!" "Poor child doesn''t know what he''s getting in to." Uhai whispers to himself. Remembering how Brendan trained the two children in front of him. Having to remind him throwing sharp axes at children isn''t the best way to keep them safe. If the child was awake he''d be crying in fear, luckily he''s sound asleep. ''Sleep while you can child. You won''t be getting much rest soon.'' Uhai thinks to himself as Lloyd and Linus run circles around the child. Chapter 6: Time Skip and Training Starts! It''s been 10 years since I''ve been in this world. I''ve gotten closer to the members of the Black Fang. I''ve also met some of the scum that started to corrupt the group. I''ve run into Jerme whose first question was to be able to skin me. Brendan also accepted the mass murdering noble Pascal into the group as well. It was during this time the Four Fangs of the Black Fang formed. Lloyd became known as the White Wolf due to his speed and skill with his sword. While Linus became known as the Mad Dog due to his rash and reckless fighting style. He charges in without caring about the wounds he receives. Jerme became one of them as well, known as the Death Kite. He''s widely known as a torturer and he''s normally the go to for any job the others don''t want to complete. Along with Jerme is Pascal. Pascal, The Crazed Beast, due to his slaughter of citizens inside his castle, became a feared man wherever he went. I make sure he doesn''t attack any civilians whenever I''m close by, but Brendan has let him run wild. I think Nergal may already have an influence on the Black Fang. It''s still minimal due to Sonia not joining yet. "Oi! Percival! The old man wants to see you!" Linus says walking up behind me. Instead of being the chubby kid he used to be, he now is 6 feet tall with a deep v neck shirt on. His 6 pack visibly showing along with a long coat on that''s unbuttoned. He sword hung on his back ready for battle at any moment. "Yeah. I''m going." I sigh to myself as I head towards Brendan. I pass by Jerme who started licking his knife while looking at me. Pascal standing to the opposite side of Jerme and sneering at him. "Disgusting thief¡­" I hear Pascal mumble to himself. "What was that!? I''ll skin you too you dirty noble!" Jerme responds drawing his daggers. "That''s enough out of you two." Brendan says as he exits out of the tent, he''s standing in. "If you two want to kill each other do it during a mission." Brendan looks haggard. His hair turned white. He left his beard unkempt. The stress of running the group is getting to him. Accepting a mass murderer like Pascal and people like Jerme are definitely destroying his beliefs. "Linus said you called me?" I say looking up at Brendan. A gentle smile appears on his face while looking at me. "There he is. Your training will start in two years, but until then you''ll be swinging your weapon 100 times every day until then. Work on your push-ups until you can do 20. After you finish that you''ll start running around the camp until you run out of energy. Don''t slack off or else when Lloyd comes back, he''ll make sure you won''t." "You wouldn''t tell Lloyd. He''d kick your ass first and then mine for not doing it!" Brendan laughs loudly at that. "Watch me kid. Now go start training."If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. "Tsk." I head off towards the training courtyard we had set up previously. While there I can see a few members practicing with each other. Linus can be seen battling against 5 of the members and demolishing them. "I have no clue what he ate to get that strong. I''m pretty sure me and him were eating the same food, but it doesn''t feel like it. Only one way to get as strong as him." I start training my swings. ----- After finishing training for the day, Linus carried me to my room and left me on my bed. When he left I used the ability Create Instant Dungeon. I made the dungeon empty except for Zelgius and Gawain. Both noticing me walk over. Gawain is the first to open his mouth to say "Lad it''s time for you to pick out a sword style. The style Zelgius and I use are unfit for you. Your mind gravitates towards quickly striking your enemy and dodging their attacks. While we focus on breaking on enemies with pure strength. You could learn this style too, but it''s not optimal for you." Gawain says holding his giant blade over his shoulder. "I got it. I''ll get a sword style to train in. Is there one in specific that you have in mind?" I say stopping the swings I was practicing. Zelgius walks up and looks at me. "You would fit the Tellius myrmidon sword style, but neither I nor Gawain know it." "Hmm¡­" ''System show me sword skills that I can buy.'' [Here are the sword skills available: Tellius Sword Style - 150,000 Niten Ichi-ryu ¨C 1,5000,000 Three-Sword Style ¨C 2,000,000 Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu ¨C 3,000,000 Kamiya Kasshin Ryu ¨C 3,000,000 Infinite One-Sword Style ¨C 3,500,000 Breath of Thunder Style ¨C 3,500,000 Breath of Water ¨C 4,000,000 Dance of the Fire God ¨C 4,000,000 Breath of the Beast ¨C 4,000,000 Breath of the Sun ¨C 6,000,000 Shigure Soen Ryu ¨C 7,000,000] "Show me my system points." [System Points: 125,000,000] I forgot I unlocked the Heavenly Library part of the System. It was worth it too. With it I can combine different styles and teach it to others. Those growth items I bought as well will be useful. "System purchase all of them and combine them together." [Certainly Host. System Points remaining 83,350,000.] [Host has obtained the Lion King''s Blade Technique.] "Good. While we''re at it purchase bow, axe and lance techniques as well. Get a Vanguard Brand too." [Host has obtained the following: Deadeye Bow Technique King''s Demolisher Axe Technique Sky Piercer Lance Technique Vanguard Brand] [Host has 10 System Points remaining.] "I''ll be back to 100 million soon enough with that broken skill. Open the inventory." [Inventory: Afa Drop x2, Maturity Drop x3, Star Jacinth Ring x1, Discipline Skill x1, Limit Breaker Skill x1, Speedtaker Skill x1, Replicate Skill x1.] "It was totally worth spending all those points for these things. Spending most of my points on the ring might have not been the best move but" I equip the ring on my finger, and I activate the skills. "System how do I use the drops?" [Host can intake them like how they eat or drink.] I do as the System says. ¡­ "How come I don''t feel anything?" [Host has improved their growth rate. You obviously wouldn''t feel the difference until you gain experience.] "Rude." Chapter 7: The First Mission! It''s been two years since I started my training. I''m 12 years old now and I have 8 more years till the storyline begins with Ludgren''s ploy for power. I had finished my training for the day when Brendan called me over. "Percy you''re doing a great job with your training. Lloyd has been telling me that you''ve been committing 100% of yourself into it." ''If only you knew old man.'' I say thinking about the hell Zelgius and Gawain are putting me through. I shudder just thinking about it. Who even makes someone fight knights with just their fists? What a bunch of psychopaths. "The training ain''t that bad!" Brendan says patting my back. Wait when did he get behind me? "Now the reason I called you in here. You''re going on your first mission." He says looking towards the door. "Lloyd will be going with you to watch over you." "Don''t mess up on your first mission and give us a bad name." A hand lands on my shoulder. "Lloyd what did I say about sneaking up and scaring me." A tick mark appearing on my head. His hand moves from my shoulder to my head ruffling my hair. "What kind of older brother would I be if I didn''t bother you?" "Good point I guess." His hand continued to ruffle my hair. "Well if you two are done playing around your job is to take out a bandit camp. They''ve attacked the village of Bernard and some others in that area. You can take whoever you want with you Percy. Except for Linus." "Why can''t I take Linus with me?" "If I let you take Linus, he''d do all the work. You two know how much like me he is!" Brendan says laughing to himself. "Alright I''ll go get some people to go with me. What''s the strongest warrior they have?" I say looking to Lloyd. "I know he isn''t going just to look after me." "That''s my little brother. At least one of you is a thinker. They have a berserker that I will be taking care of." Lloyd says with a smirk. ''I forgot everyone in this family was a battle maniac.'' "Let''s go pick out some people then for the fight." "Before you go you need a weapon now. You can use that wooden thing everywhere." Brendan says while bending over a box. He pulls out a slim sword. "Really that tiny thing?" "At your height this thing is your best bet at winning a fight. Especially since you aren''t used to an actual weapons weight yet." Brendan puts the sword in front of me and I pick it up. ''No point in telling him about all the training I''ve done in the dungeon world.'' I walk out of the building and head towards the canteen looking for members. On my way there I run into a robed figure. "Teodor! I need your help with a mission." "The figure looks up from his book and looks at me. "You need me for a mission? You''re already being sent on one? I suppose an early age is the best time to get power. What I would do for that opportunity." Teodor says mumbling the last two sentences. "Okay¡­ well I do need your help. I have a mission to take out a bandit camp and Lloyd''s coming with me."Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work! "Hmm¡­ I''ll come with you, but you have to get Brendan to let me study Valor for longer." "I don''t know about letting him give you more time studying the Dread Isles, but I can see what I can do for you." "It''s a deal then young one." "Thanks, Teodor! We''re meeting at the gate in two hours see you then!" I run off to enter the canteen and look for Uhai. I see him sitting down eating while Jerme and Pascal argue over something. "Uhai I need your help with a mission!" He puts his food down and looks at me. "He''s already sending you on a mission? I suppose that makes sense. Lloyd went on his first when he was 9. Okay. I''ll help you, but only when you need it." "Alright thank you! That''s all I needed to hear. So, I have Lloyd, Teodor, and Uhai coming with me¡­ Do I need anyone else?" "Uhai where''s Legault at?" "He should be by the bar drinking away his problems or trying to find some score to rob." Uhai says going back to his meal. "Thanks, Uhai! We''re meeting by the gate in two hours!" I say running out and towards the bar. Legault a member of the Black Fang since it''s inception. He joined as a thief and an assassin. An actual assassin not like Linus and Lloyd who aren''t classed as assassins. His nickname is the Hurricane and he''s had before he joined us. His job normally is taking out anybody that betrays the Black Fang. He isn''t well liked because of his job, but he isn''t a bad guy. Just misguided. "Legault! I need your help with a mission!" I say as soon as enter the bar. Sitting at the bar is Legault who dropped his drink hearing his name yelled loudly. "Oi kid what did I say about surprising me!" He says wiping at his clothes. I run up to him and sit down beside him. "I need your help with taking out a bandit camp. So, what do you say? Are you in?" "Kid if it gets you off my back then yes, but don''t ask me to do it again." He says with a tick mark. He picks up his drink to go for another shot. "You know if you keep talking like that you aren''t going to get married?" Legault drops his drink on himself again. "We''re meeting at the gate in two hours! See you then, Legault!" "Oi kid watch it or else I''m coming after you next!" ''This should be an easy mission with the crew I have assembled. Even then if it gets rough, I can summon Gawain or Zelgius to help me out.'' ---- You can skip this part. It''s just stats and abilities for anybody that wants to see them. [Stats] Name: Percival Reeds Title: One-Eyed Blade Race: Branded Class / Level: Myrmidon / 5 (The number at the end are the stats at level 5.) HP 18/20/21/23/25 SP 10/12/14/15/15 STR 8/10/12/13/15 MAG: 3/5/6/8/9 SKL: 12/13/14/16/18 SPD: 12/14/16/18/20 LCK: 3/5/7/9/11 DEF: 4/6/8/10/12 RES: 0/1/2/2/3 CON: 5 ABILITIES: CREATE INSTANT DUNGEON (LV MAX) ESCAPE INSTANT DUNGEON (LV MAX) MASTERIES SWORD MASTERY (B) AXE MASTERY ? BOW MASTERY (B) LANCE MASTERY ? TOMES (E) STAVES (E) RETIREMENT FUND (LV MAX) - (For any currency the host has access to the Host receives a 1% increase at the end of the day.) APTITUDE (LV MAX) ¨C (Host now has 20% added to their growth rates.) PARAGON (LV MAX) ¨C (Doubles all experience gained.) DESPOIL (LV MAX) ¨C (Host obtains a Bullion (S) when they defeat an enemy. Based on Luck) SUMMON GAWAIN THE DIVINE KNIGHT (LV MAX) SUMMON ZELGIUS THE BLACK KNIGHT (LV MAX) UNBREAKABLE (LV MAX) ¨C Any weapon held by the host does not lose durability. SPEEDTAKER (LV 1) ¨C When Host defeats an enemy, they gain 2 speed. A maximum of 5 stacks. Resets per encounter. LIMIT BREAKER (LV 1) ¨C Host''s maximum stat''s are increased by 10. REPLICATE (LV 1) ¨C Host creates a clone of themselves that has the exact same stats. DISCIPLINE (LV MAX) ¨C Host receives double the amount of weapon skill experience. LION KING''S BLADE TECHNIQUE (LV 5) ¨C Host can use multiple different styles that have been optimized to fit together. Has unique forms. DEADEYE BOW TECHNIQUE (LV 5) ¨C Host has a hard time missing a shot. Has unique forms. KING''S DEMOLISHER AXE TECHNIQUE (LV 4) ¨C Host has the capabilities of smashing through the armor of any being in his way when wielding an axe. Has unique forms. SKY PIERCER LANCE TECHNIQUE (LV 4) ¨C Host has the jump ability to hunt down flyers if the host is wielding a lance. They can throw spears with enough might to create rifts in clouds and in the sky. Has unique forms for ground based and air-based combat. INVENTORY Slim Sword x1 (Equipped) Vanguard Brand x1 Black Fang Necklace x1 (Equipped) Star Jacinth Ring x1 (Equipped) Chapter 8: The First FIght! [Host has received a quest] [Quest Name: Bandits Be Gone!] [Description: Host must slay or incapacitate the bandits in the camp. There are none that shall stand in your way as the strongest!] [Special Objective: Kill the Berserker without any help.] [Quest Rewards: Please Complete to See Them.] [Failure: Death of Host. Destruction of the Elibe Continent.] ''Wow that special objective. System why do you want me dead?'' This popped up at the gate as my party members met up. I look around and see that everyone is here and nod my head. "Okay everyone. Here''s the plan. No one get involved unless you see me in trouble. I want to test my limits!" With a determined face I look at the group. "Alright kid if you think you can handle it, I''ll let you try it. Especially with the way you treated me in the bar." "Lloyd that means leave the Berserker too. Let me see how long I can last against them!" Lloyd looks at me with a intense look in his eyes. I look into his eyes and don''t look away. He nods his head. "As soon as you''re in trouble I''m stepping in." "Now since we''re done with that¡­ let''s get going." I say looking at the group. I start heading out the gate confidently. ¡­ After about 10 minutes I turn back to Lloyd. "Which way was the camp Lloyd?" Lloyd looks at me for a moment while I''m smiling at him. He sighs and points towards a direction. "Thanks, big bro!" I start heading out that way. We reached the bandit camp at night. We can see torches surrounding the camp and along the wall. "Uhai how many are up on the wall?" He looks up at the wall and his eyes get a sharp glint in them. "2 bandits. Both drunk off their ass. Easy enough to get inside and out." "Legault sneak inside and get their valuables. I''ll make some noise for you." I say with a grin on my face. I try to rush in but Lloyd put''s a hand on my shoulder. "Percy. Think about what you''re doing. You''re about to rush into a bandit camp where you only know two are drunk. You didn''t even check to see whether it was bait or anything of the sort. So try it again." "Sorry Lloyd¡­" I look towards the camp to see if there''s anything that stands out. "The wall is made of wood. There structures inside the camp are made of wood as well. Should we burn it? But if we do that there might be civilians inside that might get hurt¡­" "I got it! Uhai pass me your bow and an arrow. Do any of you have any alcohol in your bags and rags?" Uhai and Lloyd look at me skeptical. "When did you learn to use a bow?" Lloyd asks and Uhai nods. "I haven''t yet. I just watched Uhai do it." I say as I finish wrapping the arrow with the rag and dipping it in alcohol. "Wait if you haven''t trai-"Before Lloyd can finish his sentence I launch the arrow at my target. It connects with the torches hanging off the side of the wall. A minor fire starts on the wall. I start moving to the opposite side of the fire and wait for some sort of alarm or people to start moving towards the fire. After a few minutes I can hear "FIRE!" and "KEEP IT DOWN DON''T WAKE THE CAPTAIN!". As soon as I hear that I move towards the wall and start to scale it. ''That surprisingly wasn''t as hard as I thought it was going to be.'' I look down towards the buildings and see a few bandits running towards the fire. I hop down from the wall and land on top of bandit. My sword penetrating his neck. "Shit."Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. [Host has slain a bandit and received +2 Speed and 60 Experience. 10 System Points gained.] Looking around I see 3 bandits around me. They look stunned seeing a kid standing on top of their friend with a sword through his neck. "Wha-"Before that bandit could finish his sentence I move forward and shove my sword through his mouth. [Host has received +2 Speed and 60 Experience. 10 System Points gained.] [Level Up!] [HP + 2] [STR +2] [MAG +1] [SKL +2] [SPD +1] [LCK +2] [DEF +1] [RES +1] ''That''s a great level up!'' I think as I move quickly towards my next target who managed to pull his weapon out to defend himself. He tries an overhead slash, but I sidestep it and send an elbow into his defenseless chest. I step back and then lunge forward with a piercing strike into his heart killing him instantly. [Received +2 Speed and 30 Experience. 10 System Points gained.] ''That''s 6-bonus speed so far. System show me my speed.'' [Host''s Speed is 27.] ''Holy shit that''s above Karel''s speed in the endgame of Binding Blade! I should be able to handle that berserker no problem! Wait don''t get cocky deal with the problems here now.'' I look towards the last bandit, but he isn''t there. "Shit!" I got caught up in my thoughts again! I rush past the dead bodies and head towards the biggest building I see. "The Berserker should be here¡­" I look at the building and hear grunting inside. ''Great just what I wanted. I''m going to have to go in there during that aren''t I¡­'' Looking around I see a torch. Coming up with a plan I grab it and move towards one of the windows. Using the hilt of my sword I break the window and toss the torch inside. After a few moments of waiting a burly man walks out with his pants on and his axe in his hands. "Which one of you idiots threw a torch in my room!" He yells out in a fury. Taking the opportunity that he''s distracted I rush forward and go for his neck. He turns his head slightly and sees me coming at him and raises his axe to intercept. ''Tsk, he''s much stronger than me. I have to use my speed to my advantage.'' I stop rushing in and stand looking at him with my sword in my hand. He rushes at me with an overhead slash. ''Shit he''s fast!'' I step to the side getting hit in the right arm. [Host has lost 10 HP.] I take the hit and then go to pierce his side with my blade. The sword pierces his side and he stumbles backwards. I also step back to watch his next move. I dash forward and use the first form of the Lion King''s technique. I put the blade in front of me and the Berserker raises his axe in response. We both get a feral smile on our faces. My blade starts gaining energy around it as it sharp point. The berserker starts his swing but freezes. The berserker realizing his mistake tries to act, but it''s too late and the sword pierced his chest. I look at the corpse and notice 4 holes along with the place my blade pierced him. [Host has killed the leader of the Bandit Camp. Host has received +2 Speed and 200 Experience. 200 System Points gained.] [Level Up x2!] [HP +4] [STR +3] [MAG +3] [SKL +3] [SPD +3] [LCK +2] [DEF +2] [RES +2] ''A great level up again. Soon I''ll be one of the best!'' I pull my blade out of the berserker and look for the remaining bandits. I quickly dispatch them without any of them getting away. [Host has completed the quest. Host has received 300 Experience for killing the remaining bandits. Host has received 200 Experience for completing the mission. Host receives an extra 400 Experience for completing the bonus objective.] [Host has received the Tellius Wind Edge x1 and Sword Avoid +20 Skill x1.] [Host has received Master Seal x1 and Colossus Skill x1 for completing the Bonus Objective.] [Level Up! x9] [HP +18] [STR +17] [MAG +15] [SKL +15] [SPD +16] [LCK +12] [DEF +9] [RES +8] I returned to Lloyd after I was finished and looked at him. His face was filled with amazement, but he fixed his stare on my wound. "Teodor use your staff to heal him." He looks at me again and shakes his head. "Good job, but next time try doing it without getting hurt you idiot." After Teodor healed my wounds we went looking for anybody that were kidnapped. We escorted them back home and returned to the camp. Legault grabbed all the gold he could carry. Lloyd said we''ll send someone else to come pick it up later. (Lloyd POV) Watching Percy and Linus fight is always worrying. They always rush in without a plan. At least he decided to finally use his brain here. I look towards him and he started running towards the Berserker. Sigh. ''Looks like some things don''t change.'' I start to move closer but see the axe slash Percy''s arm. When Percy got hit his aura changed and he got into a strange form I haven''t seen him use. Behind him is the image of white lion roaring. It appears I''m not the only one who noticed it. The berserker that''s facing him pauses the moment he sees it. The sword pierces through the berserker''s chest, but rather than a sword connecting it looked like a lion ripping a chunk of out his flesh. When I close my eyes and look back at the scene the lion is gone and Percy''s sword is through the berserker''s chest. ''Look''s like we just received another monster¡­'' Lloyd sighs to himself and shakes his head. ''It doesn''t matter as long as we''re together as a family.'' --------- On the day we returned I noticed a pale, black haired woman following Brendan around. ''Looks like Sonia is already here.'' Behind her is a 6-year-old girl with green hair. Looking at her I can see that she isn''t as well fed as a child is supposed to be. Along with them is a twenty or so blue haired woman. I can feel the magic emanating from here. Looks like Ursula is already a Valkyrie and quite capable at that. Looks like Nergal is already acting. Sonia might be a problem if she can sense magic, but she won''t have the power to act here until a couple years in the future. I can take him though with the support I have behind me. Don''t worry, Nino, I''ll make sure your potential shines through no matter what that morph has planned for you. Especially since you''ll be helping me in the future against Nergal. ---------- Stats For Anyone Curious Percival Reeds One-eyed Branded Class / Level: Myrmidon / 17 HP: 49/49 SP: 40/40 STR: 37 MAG: 28 SKL: 38 SPD: 40 LCK: 27 DEF: 24 RES: 14 CON: 5 Chapter 9: Growing Up. Lloyd and I walk up to Brendan while the rest of the group goes about their day. "Job''s done old man." I say looking at the people behind him. Brendan turns towards us and looks at my bandaged arm in surprise. "You got hurt by some bandits kid? Looks like we have to double your training." "He fought and killed the berserker. That''s how he got the wound." Lloyd speaks up in my defense. Brendan hearing this looks at me with surprise and then grins. "Attaboy! Naturally no one can beat the Reeds!" He starts laughing loudly. The black-haired woman behind him puts a hand over her mouth trying to hide her disgust. "Who are the people behind you?" Another voice joins the conversation. The man walks up behind us and puts an arm around my shoulder and Lloyd''s. "Linus could you not do that after you just finished training." I say looking at his sweat covered arm. He just laughs to himself and keeps his arms where they are. Lloyd shakes his head and turns his attention back towards the newcomers. His eyes on the black-haired woman as well. ''Looks like Lloyd''s already suspicious of her.'' "This is Sonia. The woman I''ve been talking about to you lot. We got married while you guys were away. This is Ursula." He says pointing to the tall blue-haired woman with short hair. "And this little one is your little sister, Nino." He says patting her on her head. Nino moves her head closer to the hand. "Little... sister?" Lloyd, Linus and I say. Lloyd gains a small smile; Linus looks at her with pity and I give her a slight nod. "Good job on your mission Percy. Go ahead and take a rest." "Okay guys see you in a bit!" I say running off towards the cafeteria. After making sure they stopped looking at me, I turn towards my room to train. ''How many system points do I have remaining?'' [Host has 14,495 System Points.] ''Hmm¡­ by the time I try leave the Black Fang to join Lyn I should be able to get the fairy eyes.'' ------ "Haaaa!" I yell out as I strike out towards Zelgius. He blocks the strike and strikes me across the face. Brushing the attack off, thanks to my defense, I rush back in and kick him in his chest. He clearly doesn''t feel the impact and smiles looking at me. We clash blades again and again until Gawain tells us to stop.The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. [Host has achieved Sword Mastery A.] "That''s enough for today." Zelgius nods at that and I store the sword in my inventory. "Since you''ve started training with us, you''ve gotten stronger. Soon you''ll be one of the strongest people in this camp with just blade skill alone." Gawain says looking at me with a smile. I nod my head. "I just need to get strong enough to be able to leave without Legault or Jaffar coming after me to kill me." "Now I have a task for you that I need done. Zelgius you''re going to join the Black Fang as the Black Knight. I need you to protect Brendan from Nergal and Sonia." Zelgius nods his head. "I''ll do it." Hearing the Black Knight say they could handle a mission is the most reassuring thing I''ve heard since I came to this world. Inside a tent are two figures. One hulking sitting on a chair, while the other remains standing. "Lloyd how did he do?" "He performed quite well. In a year or two he''ll be at my level." Brendan hearing this gets a giant smile on his face and leans back in his chair. "Good that kid has earned it through all his training." After finishing that, he sits back up in his chair and looks towards Lloyd. "Now we have to handle a few matters¡­" Waking up in the morning I run out to the cafeteria to get some food. Looking around at the people here I see Nino standing alone in a corner. ''She looks like a scared cat.'' I think to myself and walk over to her. "Hey little sis!" The girl hearing me jumps at the sound and turns towards me. Seeing her expression of a scared girl I put a hand on her head. "You hungry kid?" She nods. "Well come on then. You aren''t going to get any food standing in this corner. --- Further away Sonia can be seen watching the two interact. "Hmph taking care of garbage like that is such a hassle." Sonia says at a whisper. She smiles looking at the boy. "He can be of use to Lord Nergal¡­" --- 4 Years Later "Legault wait up!" "What is it kid?" Legault says while stopping and looking towards me. "I just wanted to stop you to say a few things." I look towards him with a serious look in my eyes. "Don''t let your morals get corrupted old man. Don''t do something if it''s going to make you have regrets. Especially killing someone who''s defenseless." Legault pauses for a moment and looks at me. He nods his head and walks away. Later that day I heard he escaped the Black Fang with a wounded assassin. --- Three years go by and I have become a swordmaster. My name as the One-Eyed Lion has spread far and wide. A man that executes corrupt nobles within mere moments of their acts. A man with armor covering his shoulders and chest. Along with guards upon his sides and a pair of boots colored a purplish-red like the rest of his armor. A cape held together by a lion branded sigil attached to the chest piece. I''ve grown closer to the other members. Getting closer to them has given me a chance to pass along some warnings and saving some others. While other members have left completely. Whether it was their death or their decision to leave. While Black Knight has joined the Black Fang. He''s become a trusted member of the group and sticks closely to Brendan. --- Stats Name: Percival Reeds Race: Branded Title: One eyed Lion Class / Level: Swordmaster / 15 HP: 60/60 SP: 50/50 STR: 46 MAG: 30 SKL: 49 SPD: 52 LCK: 45 DEF: 42 RES: 30 CON: 9 Chapter 10: The Prince of Bern ''System purchase the Fairy Eyes and the magecraft body required! Only apply the Fairy eyes to my damaged eye. Leave the other one alone for now. When we leave the Black Fang, we can fix it.] I say as I enter my empty dungeon with Gawain watching over me. [Host has purchased Mystic Eye: Fairy Eyes and magecraft body. Applying now.] "AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" "Oi! That''s not normal kid!" Gawain shouts out as he tries to run for cover. A magic explosion happens in my vicinity. A few hours later I woke up from the most peaceful slumber I''ve had. I look around me and see that I am in a crater. Behind me a figure moves to hit me on the head but expecting it I move to dodge. I end up crashed on the floor looking up at Gawain. "What you aren''t used to your new power yet? Hahahaha!" Gawain says laughing madly at the end. "Oi quit laughing. It isn''t funny old man." He continued laughing until I left the zone. "Rude old man." --- After exiting my room, I start heading for Brendan''s building. Today is my last mission with the Black Fang. Sadly, the others won''t know that until I''m already gone. "Percy!" A green haired girl runs up to me with a giant smile on her face. "I heard you''re going on a mission today! Can I go?" "Nino you and I both know you''re not going. You''re not strong enough yet even after everything I taught you." Nino pouts at that and looks at me. "Come back alive, ok?" Nino says in a barely audible whisper. "Haha! No need to worry so hard Nino! I''ll always come back home no matter how long it takes!" She starts to follow me, and I notice up ahead a purple haired woman and Uhai. The woman has leather armor on and has a short hair that has some covering over her right eye. ''Oh looks like Leila is here for this mission as well¡­ I should figure out a way to keep her alive for Matthew¡­'' I walk up to the two people and stand in front of them. "Good to see you Percival and you too Nino. We were waiting on you before we go inside." Uhai says nodding at me and Nino. "Let''s go inside then. Hopefully the mission isn''t too much of a headache." I say with a easygoing smile. "Won''t be too hard with the One-eyed Lion with us." Leila says looking at me with a smirk. "Oh? And who are you? I don''t think I''ve seen you before." "It''s a good thing you haven''t seen me before. It means you''re doing a good enough job." Leila says looking away and towards the door. "Oh." "Well let''s get inside and get this over with." I say opening the door and going inside. "Nino I''ll see you later. Tell Lloyd and Linus to take care and tell Linus to rush into a fight whenever he gets the chance." "Okay! See you later!" Nino says running off. We enter the room Brendan is in and he can be seen sitting there with Sonia and the Black Knight standing there. The Black Knight walks in front of us and hands us a set of papers with our target and their expected location on it. "You''re to hunt down these bandits and get rid of them. The nobles don''t want to deal with so you three will handle it. I look at the paper and see it''s a trail near the border of Lycia. ''Hmm¡­ I can take this opportunity to visit Lycia and meet a few people or go straight towards Sacae¡­'' "Alright, Is there any major threats in their crew?" I ask looking towards Brendan. "No there isn''t anybody you should have a problem with, but don''t get cocky." Brendan says. I take a glance at Sonia and she has her signature smile on. I head for the exit with the other two in tow. "Gather whatever you need and let''s head out immediately." "Be careful kid." Brendan says under his breath.Stolen novel; please report. On our way there we encounter an interesting situation. "Alright! Drop everything valuable that you have! We''re the Telirius Bandits!" I look over at Uhai. "Aren''t they the bandits we''re supposed to wipe out." "Yes, they are." Leila says with a hand resting on her forehead. "Why are they sticking up a carriage this far from where they''re supposed to be." Looking at the carriage I see only a single guard and inside the carriage is a young boy with blonde hair. "Oh shit." I say aloud recognizing the kid. "What who is in the carriage?" Leila says trying to look inside. "It''s the Prince." "Let''s take advantage of this distraction then." Uhai says setting up his bow. "As soon as you fire, I''m rushing out." Uhai and Leila nod and get ready. Leila starts to move off to the side to get behind the bandits standing in the far back. I pull out my Wind Edge and get ready to charge. *SWISH* The arrow soars through the sky and I launch out of the forest. "We''re under attack!" One of the bandits yells out. After yelling that out a wind blade slashes his throat open. "I''ll give you bandits one chance. Throw down your weapons and I''ll grant you a peaceful death." I say with a gentle smile looking at the bandits. The bandits look at each other and then back at me. "It''s only one guy! Get him!" "So it''s the hard way then." An arrow launches from the forest and takes out another bandit while I charge in to clean up the rest. -- "Your highness please cover your eyes. This gore isn''t fit for your eyes." The knight says looking at the massacre in front of him. ''He''s taking out so many bandits by himself. Is this what that group is capable of?'' -- The bandits have all been slain. I look around for the leader''s corpse. After a moment of searching I found one that looks similar and pull out the paper to compare. ''Yup that''s the one.'' I look back towards the forest and give Uhai a thumbs up. When I do that, I notice a figure with a sword about to strike him. ''Oh shit!'' I start moving that way using the Lion Step form to close the gap. -- (Uhai POV) I look towards Percival and see him giving me a thumbs up. His face drops into a feral expression and he starts rushing towards me. I turn around and see a figure looming over me with a sword about to strike me down. ''So, this is how I die.'' I stare at the man about to cut me down and see a blade appear in front of me blocking his strike. "That''s not happening!" Percival yells out as a lion comes out of his sword leaving a giant bite mark on the bandit''s chest. ''Heh looks like I owe the kid a favor.'' -- I manage to reach Uhai in time and save him. "Uhai are you alright?" I look at him looking for wounds. "I''m fine Percival. Thank you for the rescue. I owe you one." I look at him and grin. "That''s what friends are for old man!" I say giving him a pat on his shoulder. Looking around the battlefield I notice Leila hovering over the leader''s body. "Assassin you have any wounds on you?" "I''m alright." She says responding back. She has a wary expression on her face while looking at me, but I shrug my shoulders. I turn back to the carriage and look towards the guard. A tall man with blonde hair with a giant axe on his shoulder is looking towards us. "Are you the One-Eyed Lion?" He says looking at me warily. "It''s not a nickname I chose, but it''s one I''m willing to work with. Percival the Lion at your service General Murdock." "Hmph. So, you know who I am?" "Naturally anyone of Bern would recognize one of the Wyvern Generals." He looks at me and notices me not looking at the carriage at all. "You understand who is in this carriage." "It''s an honor to be in the presence of the Prince." I say bowing towards the carriage. "I apologize for the sight before your eyes." "It''s alright. I wish to see the famous One-eyed Lion if possible, Murdock." Murdock surprised at this stays silent for a moment and looks at me. He nods. "Of course, your majesty. Move up to the carriage and stand on that side lion." I do as he says and see the child prince in front of me. "I''ve heard a ton of stories about you Lion. I heard you can summon lions with a single wave of your sword!" ''Ah he''s still a child¡­'' "I am not capable of that yet my lord. I can summon wind blades but not lions yet." "Yet? That means you can do it eventually?" "I believe if I train hard enough anything is possible." He hears my words and nods. "Thank you for saving me." He says with glee. "Wait until my little sister hears how the One-Eyed Lion saved me." He sits back in his carriage. ''Looks like my audience is already done.'' I look towards Murdock and nod. Murdock begins to lead the carriage away. When it''s a decent distance away I walk towards Leila who''s still standing and looking at the leader''s body. I put a hand on her shoulder. "I need to have a word with you. Uhai do you mind gathering wood for a camp." He nods and walks away to gather the supplies. Leila steps back and has a hand resting on her dagger. "Now, now. There''s no need for that. I just wanted to give you a warning." She tightens her grip on the dagger. "Is this how Ostia treats friends?" I say whispering to myself. Her eyes go wide at those words and pulls out her dagger and points them at me. "How-" I cut her off mid-sentence. "Don''t worry about that right now. I just wanted to pass this along before I leave. When you eavesdrop in on Sonia''s conversations take the utmost care. She isn''t human and neither are her companions. They''re capable of killing you with just a snap of their fingers. So be careful with your actions." ''System are there any items I can buy that would protect her from being killed?'' [Host can purchase the Lion Summon skill. The skill summons a lion that is linked to the Host. It will do what you would in the situation. If you apply it to a person, it will come out when that person is in danger.] ''Purchase it and use it on her.'' "Why are you telling me this?" Leila says. "Because if you die it''ll make it harder for me to become friends with a few people." She hears this and gets visibly confused. "Well anyway good luck!" I say as I start walking away. "Tell Brendan I''m retiring from being a Black Fang member!" "Wai-"before she can finish the sentence Uhai returns. "Where did Percival go?" "He just went that way. He said he''s leaving the Black Fang." "What!?" Uhai shouts and looks towards the direction Percival walked off in. "The commander isn''t going to like that at all." -- Three Days Later "What do you mean he''s leaving the Black Fang?" Brendan says looking up at Uhai. "That''s what he said before he left us and walked off on his own." He responds looking down. In the room Brendan is standing crushing the table with his hands. The Black Knight is standing by the door. Sonia is standing in a corner, While Linus and Lloyd stand at the opposite sides of the table. "Does he know the position he''s putting me in?" Sonia hearing Brendan mumbling shakes her head. "Lloyd we''re going to go get him right now. He''s going to make Nino cry if she finds out." "Linus we can''t rush headfirst into this we don''t even know where he is!" The arguments in the room continued for an entire night before they decided to wait for news of the One-Eyed Lion. -- "Jerme go hunt him down." A feminine voice says from the shadow. "If that''s what Nergal wants I''ll get it done. I always wanted to cut him open." Chapter 11: Planning Ahead ''Well I left the Black Fang without a plan¡­'' I think to myself as I enter a bar near the border of Bern and Lycia. ''It''ll take me 5 or so months just to get to the Sacae¡­ I could always take a detour in Pharae and then head there. I can''t go to Caelin and Ostia due to the distance¡­'' ''I don''t want Lyn to lose her parents¡­ but she won''t start her journey without that loss¡­'' ''Ah fuck it. If I don''t save her parents, then what was the point of coming here!'' ''System map out a path to the Lorca Tribe in Sacae.'' [Certainly Host.] A moment later the bar doors open, and a rowdy bunch enter. "Hector you know we can''t just barge into a bar. Think about what the people will say." A red-haired youth says. He''s wearing a blue cape with a blue coat over his white pants. A belt to keep his coat sealed along with white pants and blue shoes. The kid really liked blue. It does go well with his red hair I suppose. "They''ll say the lout is drinking like he''s supposed to be!" His compatriot said. A young man with blue hair and an axe slung over his back. A red cape on with a blue undershirt and purple chest piece and gloves. His pants are colored black, and his boots are also the same color as his armor. "Relax, Eliwood, we''re only here to get information on those bandits! No ones going to say anything." The boy says patting the red-haired youth on the shoulder. "Fine. Let''s hurry it up." The duo start walking towards anyone they can to get information on the bandits. ¡­ After receiving the information they''re looking for they head out towards the bandit camp. ''Well I should watch to see how strong they are right now. They might not be at the level they need to be.'' ''System purchase the axe "Helswatch".'' [Does host wish to purchase the bloodline required to use its blood link?] ''Not yet.'' [The axe has been purchased and is stored in the inventory.] I head outside the bar and start following the duo. ''Hmm¡­ looks like they''re with their guards as well. They shouldn''t have a problem with those three here, but better safe than sorry¡­'' One of the men is mounted on a horse. His armor declaring his status as a paladin. His armor is a lighter shade of crimson. His hair short and he sports a goatee as facial hair. His hair is colored purple. At his side is an iron sword, while a steel lance hangs off the side of the horse. ''He definitely has the look of a veteran.'' The next man is a largely armored man with spear. His hair colored a greenish yellow. He wears an armor set colored a dark orange. The weapon on his back is an iron lance. ''Oswin a loyal servant of Uther and Ostia.'' The last man is a brown-haired youth with two daggers at his sides. Wearing no armor giving away his status as a roguish thief. ''The spy who''ll travel with us in a year''s time. I already have your girlfriend protected so hopefully you''ll be at full strength.'' ''Well time to see where we''re going.'' I think as pull out Helswath and place it where I can reach it in case of an emergency. -- After a few hours we reach the location they should be at, but don''t find them. Instead we see a smokestack off in the distance. "My lord it looks like the bandits are raiding a village in that direction." Marcus says pointing out the smokestack. ''Oh? He really is a veteran. Instead of panicking at not finding the bandits he figured out where they were instead.'' "Let''s hurry then!" Eliwood said as he started running in that direction. Hector already ahead of him pulls his axe. "I''ll end these bandits for their actions!" ''Ah shit they''re running now¡­'' I look towards the smokestack and consider my options. ''Oh, here''s an idea¡­'' -- Reaching the village after Eliwood and crew shows me a scene I was half expecting. The bandits were saying they''ll kill the villagers if they don''t put their weapons down. ''It''s a terrible idea trying to do that with Hector there, but how could they know better.'' Taking this opportunity, I sneak around the back of the village and look for an entry point. "There''s no need for that. We''ll put our weapons down!" I hear Eliwood''s voice say over the fire. ''That''s the distraction I needed. Good job kid.'' I take out my Wind Edge and look towards the three guards at the back entrance of the gate. ''Don''t miss now!''If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. I charge forward and send out three wind blades from the sword. They cut through two of the bandits decapitating them. The third lost an arm. His mouth opening for a scream, but I reach him and pierce his throat. "Should have thought about the consequences, scum." I say pulling the sword out. [Host has received +6 Speed, 6 Experience and 3 System Points.] ''My experience input has been decreased¡­ I suppose it''s because these pieces of trash don''t offer a challenge.'' I continue my hunt for bandits inside the village. I found one trying to rip a woman''s clothes off, but before he gets the chance his head leaves his body. Another bandit trying to kill a man protecting his family receives an axe smash from yours truly. ''System how many left?'' I ask after getting rid of 10 bandits. [There are 9 remaining near the gate by the noble group, Host.] ''Perfect. Time to get rid of the last bandits.'' -- (Eliwood POV) I had just dropped my sword in front of me, while Hector argues with me about it. I give him a stern look and he along with our guards drop our weapons. "We dropped them like you said. Now let that villager go." I say looking at the young girl he has his hands on. "Why would we do that?" He says with a devious smile. He puts the dagger to her throat- "NO!" I yell out. The bandit''s arm wielding the dagger goes limp. Rather than limp his arm is no longer attached to his body. "What in th-"I hear Marcus says as he looks towards the other bandits. While we were distracted with the leader, we missed two of the bandits falling to the ground in a pool of blood. Hector upon seeing the villager safe picks up his axe and rushes into the bandits. I do the same and charge the bandits. After a few minutes of battle, we finish the last bandit. "Eliwood watch out behind you!" I hear from Hector and turn around. Standing in front of me is a bandit mid-swing. -- ''Looks like they can handle the rest of the bandits at this point. Now the question is do I reveal myself or just go about my day¡­'' ''It''d be more fun if they already know who I am.'' I think to myself before deciding to head out. ''System how many bandits remaining?'' [One bandit remaining.] ''Oh, where are they hiding?'' I look over the battlefield and spot a single bandit standing. His right arm gone, but in his left is an axe. He''s standing behind Eliwood about to smash it into the back of the young lord. "Eliwood watch out behind you!" [He''s over there.] ''No shit Sherlock.'' I don''t know when it happened, but my body started moving without any restraint. ''Can''t let him die here. Roy''s needed in the future.'' I reach the bandit in time and stab my sword into his axe wielding arm. I then unhook my axe and slam it into his neck. "Made it." I say aloud. I pull the weapons out of the bandit and put them away. Behind me I can hear Eliwood sheathe his weapon while the others keep theirs out. ''He really is as na?ve as he is in the game. That''s probably what made him so charismatic.'' I turn around and look at the red-haired youth. My eyes becoming gentle looking at him. He does remind me of Nino, that naivete of his. I put a hand on his hand and ruffle his hair. "Always double check to make sure the enemies down before you rest your guard kid." I say continuing the ruffling. His face showing me that he''s stunned by what I''m doing, but it''s not going to stop me. How did he even get it like this? It''s not like there''s shampoo in this world. "Ahem." Eliwood says recovering his dignity, but it''s not enough as I keep patting his head. I can see Hector trying to stifle a laugh, while Marcus is giving me a mean look. "Yes, I can hear you lad. What''s the matter?" I say to Eliwood trying to get a reaction. "I''d like to thank you for saving my life." He says not doing anything about my hand on his head. He begins to bow, but I stop him. "There''s no need to thank me. It''s only natural I save someone that reminds me of my little sister." "I remind you of your sister?" He says confused. "You''re just as na?ve as her!" I say. Hector unable to contain his laughter roars loudly. "He just met you and he already knows you so well, Eliwood." He says in-between his laughter. Eliwood sighs and looks back to me after giving Hector a death stare. "Can I at least ask for your name?" "Well I could give it to you, but then I''d get found out too easily. That would be no fun!" I say giving him a smile. ''Giving him the thought that I''m an easygoing person would make it easier for him to accept me after he finds out I was a part of the Black Fang.'' "Well it was a pleasure meeting you lot, but you should be careful with the missions you take on. Bandits are serious business. They usually don''t have very many morals, since they''re willing to do this to innocent villagers." Marcus and Oswin both nod at that and look at the two lords they''re responsible for. "As for you axe boy." I say pointing at Hector. I''m going to take full advantage of the fact they haven''t told me they''re nobles yet. "Oi, who are you calling axe boy, you wind freak!" Hector responds with a tick mark. "Wind freak? That''s a new nickname. I kind of like the ring to it¡­ Anyway, work on your axe skill. Do you have a teacher, or do you just swing it wildly hoping you hit something?" "I don''t have a teacher. They all want me to learn how to use a sword." "Hmm¡­ Tell you what kid. I''ll teach you a few things with that axe of yours." Hector looks at me suspiciously. "What''s in it for you?" he says looking for a motive. "Don''t you want to learn from the best axe fighter on this continent?" "Uh¡­" Clearly hesitating. That means there''s a chance he says yes and that''s all I need. "Alright axe boy since you don''t believe me let me show you." I look around for an open plain or something I can use to demonstrate. "Let''s go over there I''ll show you how to use an axe properly." Hector nods and the crew follows behind me. The three guards are conversing with each other. Probably trying to figure out who I am or what their plan is in case I attack them. "Alright this tree looks good. Axe boy strike the tree with your axe." "You want me to hit this tree..., with my axe?" "That''s what I said. Go ahead and do it. See if you can knock it down in one swing." "Hmph. Easy enough." He pulls his arm back and smashes it into the tree. His axe only manages to get halfway through it before it stops. Oswin and Matthew clap and cheer on their lord. "Lord Hector''s the strongest!" Matthew yells out. "Naturally." The response comes out of Hector. Having a competition in the one thing he prides himself on should be enough to convince him. "Alright axe boy step back." The group steps back and the guards all start to reach for their weapon. I pull the axe out of its place and place it in my right hand over my shoulder. "Watch and learn kid." I move to the next tree. The thickest one in the forest. I start spinning the axe in the air and activate my colossus skill. I grab hold of the axe and swing right into the tree. It''s cut thoroughly and cleanly and a shockwave emerges from the tree launching into the others behind it. 6 total trees fall in the aftermath. I turn to look at the group and they have their mouth open wide in surprise. "So, what do you think axe boy?" I say looking at Hector with a smirk. He looks at me with a serious expression. "Please teach me to be strong." His eyes gaining a determined look in them. -- [End of fight loot] [38 Experience and System Points.] Chapter 12: Training Two Brats (Eliwood POV) It''s been two weeks since Hector started getting taught by the stranger. He still hasn''t given us his name. He said he''ll do it when Hector reaches a certain level. Looking at this training I''m glad I declined his offer. Or I thought I declined his offer. If I declined it then why am I here learning with Hector. ¡­ "Put all your weight into the swing!" ¡­ "Don''t lift your axe like that you''ll hurt your back!" ¡­ "Lift with your legs not your back." ¡­ "Swing with your arms not your back!" ¡­ "Push your legs into the ground while you swing!" Hector really is putting his all into it. I can''t quit if he doesn''t! I''ll show him that I''m not a burden on him! -- These kids really do want to get stronger. I think Eliwood only wants to so he can compete with Hector, but their reasons don''t matter. As long as they put their all into it, the world''s got a chance to make it out. I look over to the other people training in this courtyard. I can see a blonde-haired man practicing with other guards. His swings are swift, but they lack strength. My staring at him apparently was noticed by a few of the guards and knights training. "Oi, Harken the lord''s teacher is looking at you." After being notified he looks towards me and nods. I nod back and beckon him over. Eliwood and Hector noticing something else happening put less effort into their training trying to watch the encounter. A long blue-haired woman could also be seen stopping her training to watch them. "Your name is Harken correct?" "Yes sir!" "There''s no need for that. I''m much younger than you." "You''re the young lord''s teacher. That makes you a sir." I sigh. "If that makes it easier for you go ahead and call me whatever." "Yes sir." I look him in his eyes and say out loud "Why do you fear going all out?" He looks at me with shock and walks closer to me. ''Oops.'' He pulls his arm back to swing at me. His punch launches forward, but I step back dodging it. "Now, now. There''s no need to get so violent." He continues swinging and his punches get more ferocious as time goes on. I continue to dodge watching him with a small smile. Hector and Eliwood have completely stopped training and have started watching the fight. Both of them cheering on Harken to beat me. ''I''ll have to increase their training¡­'' While thinking that a fist strikes my stomach. The cheering stops and everyone goes silent. Harken realizing what he''s done starts to panic and pull back his fist. Not staggering a bit from his hit a grab his arm and flip him over my shoulder.This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. "Good hit. Needs more strength though." I say looking down at him. "Get up. You need more power in your strikes." I crouch down looking at him. "Use that rage you feel to fuel your strength. Let that strength be the method you use to protect. You are a knight of Pherae aren''t you?" Harken stops speechless for a moment. He gets off the ground and yells out "Yes sir!" He turns away and goes back to his training. His strikes getting stronger with every swing. I nod looking at the improvement that''s already appeared. "Are you two done slacking off or do you two want some hands-on training as well?" I say looking at the two lords slacking off. They both pick up their weapons and go back to training. The blue-haired woman looks back to Harken and seeing his determined face gains a slight smile. -- At a window overlooking the training yard. "What do you think, Marcus?" An older man says. He has the same features as Eliwood, but older. His hair a tad longer with a mustache. "The trainer they received is definitely capable. He doesn''t appear to be hostile with the way he''s treating them. It honestly looks like he considers them his younger brothers. He also didn''t stagger at Harken''s punch. That alone tells me that he isn''t someone to trifle with. Lord Elbert I believe we should try to recruit him permenantly. With his strength and teaching manners we''d be a force to reckon. Of course, we''d have to find out his background first¡­" "He still hasn''t said his name or anything we can use?" "Not yet Lord Elbert." "Keep an eye out for any information we can use then." "Of course, my lord!" -- It''s been a month since I''ve started training these two. Today is my last day training them and the method I decided upon was a 1 vs 2 combat scenario. "You two have to work together to beat me. If you don''t manage it the training will be doubled." I look towards the both of them. Eliwood shivered at that comment, while Hector''s gaze turned fierce. "We won''t lose!" Hector says looking towards Eliwood. "That''s right!" ''Well at least they''re both confident.'' I grab the wooden training sword on my sword ready a stance. I look towards the both of them and see them in the stances I''ve taught them. I give them a smile as they charge me. Eliwood goes for a piercing strike towards my chest. I move my sword to push it skyward, but Hector is moving in from my flank. ''Let''s see how they act when I turn them against each other.'' I parry Eliwood''s strike and launch him towards Hector. Hector stops his strike and catches Eliwood. "Sorry Hector." "Don''t worry. We just need to attack at the same time." ''That''s good they''re not focused only on themselves. They''re working as a team to try and beat me. At least they''ll put on a good show for the audience.'' "Are you two done with your sweet moment? I do have other things to do today." I say grinning at them. Hector ticked off at the remark, charges forward and starts spinning his axe. "Oh, you''re stealing my technique from me? I don''t know if I should be flattered or upset with your form." He continues spinning the axe and then swings it towards me. While swinging it I notice Eliwood coming forward with a piercing strike. ''That''s good they''re using each other to their advantage.'' I catch Hector''s axe with my sword and overpower him. I move his axe to block the piercing strike. Taking that opportunity, I kick out towards Hector making him drop his axe. I then move towards Eliwood kicking the sword out of his hand. "You''re both disarmed." I say looking at the two of them eager to see what they''re going to do. Hector doesn''t disappoint. He kicks Eliwood''s sword towards him and then grabs a rock to throw at me. I dodge it and Eliwood comes in front of me launching a series of stabs. I parry them but lose sight of Hector in the process. I kick backwards expecting him to be there, but my kick hits the air. Hector approaches from my left and being caught off balance I drop my training sword and punch out towards him. My fist almost connects with his face, but I stop it right before his nose. "Good job. You made me drop my weapon. That doesn''t mean I''m defenseless though!" I say with a grin as I put my fist back to my side. "Wait does that mean we won?" "I suppose so." I say with a little smile looking at the two of them. "Why did you hold back?" Eliwood asks me. I look at him, surprised he noticed. "Oh? Looks like your eyes are quite good." I walk over and pick up the training sword and look towards the two of them. "I didn''t go all out because I didn''t need to. This is a training situation. If you want to see me all out." I look at them with a grin on my face. "Meet me on a battlefield." "Now then I did say I had other things to do today. Do you two have any questions about today?" I start heading for the exit and back to the main quest at hand. "No sir!" They both reply. "Alright then I''ll see you guys in a year or so. So, go grow big and strong. Make sure Percival doesn''t have any weak students." "Wait where are you going?" Eliwood yells out. "I''m going to go help out a friend of mine with a problem. Don''t worry we''ll see each other sooner rather than later." ''System set course for the Lorca Tribe. It''s time to help Lyn out.'' Chapter 13: The Lorca Tribe It''s been around four months since I''ve started my journey. I''ve just now realized I could have purchased a mount to cut my travel time. ''Fuck.'' [Host can only receive a mount from the system by becoming a horse-based class.] ''Nevermind then. I don''t want to become a paladin or the other options. A wyvern rider sounds like fun¡­'' ''System how long do I have till I''m there.'' [Host has 2 weeks of travel left at this pace.] -- (2 Weeks Later) I''m about 40 minutes away from the tribe and it''s already so dark. I don''t want to show up at night and scare them¡­ ''Wait what''s that?'' Looking out over the horizon I can see a horse rushing towards me and on it''s back is a person slumped over. ''Oh no!'' ''System purchase a mount now and whatever I need to ride one!'' [Host has class changed to -] -- (??? POV) (Earlier that day) "Dad it''s time to eat. Stop swinging your sword." A young lady says. Her hair long and tied in a ponytail. The color of her hair is a dark teal. While the man she''s speaking to has black hair. A figure about 6 feet tall and large arms was swinging away with his blade. ''Hmm¡­ my sword arm feels weak¡­ Am I losing my touch?'' The large man thinks to himself. "I''m coming little one." He puts his sword away and enters the tent. In the middle of the room is a woman already seated. Her hair colored teal like the younger girl. Their features are similar. The woman seated clearly holding more mature features, with a few wrinkles near her eyes. "Lyn, Hassar come sit and eat." The woman says looking up at the two. They both walk over and to eat. ¡­ "Kill em all!" A voice suddenly shouts. ''Bandits!'' Hassar thinks to himself. He tries to get up, but he struggles. His body working against him. ''Come on, come on, come on!'' He gets up and stumbles to his family.The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. "Wake up both of you." The man moves towards his wife and shakes her awake and then towards his daughter. "What''s going on?" The older woman says looking towards her husband. "Bandits. We need to get you two out of here." The man goes towards his sword stumbling along the way. His body too weak to lift it. ''Shit! Ok. Relax breathe. I must defend them. I can''t let them be right!'' Grabbing the sword, he ties it to his belt. "Come quickly!" He walks outside the tent they were in and looks around for bandits. Seeing a few off in the distance moves towards the horses. "Lyn listen to me. Get on the horse and ride!" "Bu-" "Lyn listen to me. You have to get out of here while you can." The woman says looking at her daughter. "Please." A tear welling up in her eyes. Seeing this some of the bandits yell out "Look the mongrels are trying to escape!" Hassar only wanting to protect his dearest daughter, has an axe smash into his back. This sudden action makes the horse charge out and escape the turmoil. Hassar then turns and pulls out his sword. An axe out hanging out of his back. He looks towards his wife and nods at her. "Sorry dear. Looks like they were right. This life will be the death of you." The woman holds his face and lays a gentle kiss upon it. "A life worth living with you." Tears beginning to roll down her face. The man falls breathing his last. The lady grabs the sword from his hands and plunges it deep. Her thoughts are on her daughter and father hugging. ''That would be a sight to see¡­'' ¡­ (Percival POV) I arrive at the Lorca Tribe camp. Lyn''s horse following close behind me. Looking around I try to find any survivors, but all the ones in the tribe are dead. ''Fuck I wasted too much time!'' ''Fuck, fuck, fuck!'' "I''m sorry Lyn¡­" "Hey. Look! It''s a horse rider! His horse looks valuable!" A bandit says looking towards my direction. "He brought back one of the ones that got away!" The bandits start laughing. "Gawain." A portal opens beside me. Upon exiting it he sees the bandits and the corpses. "Tsk, disgusting bastards." "Look after the girl. I have to take care of a few piles of garbage." Gawain nods and backs away towards the girl''s horse. I pull out my sword and charge. ¡­ A few minutes later. The last bandit falls to my blade. I look around me to see if there are anymore, but don''t see any. ''Only 12 bandits¡­ There should be more of them. I suppose these ones were left back to loot.'' I hear coughing and look towards the source. A woman that resembles Lyn can be seen sitting up with a man''s head resting on her lap. ''She''s still alive!'' I rush over to her and look at her wound. "Listen to my voice, ma''am. Stay with me. I''m not going to let you leave that girl all alone." "Wh-who¡­ ar-are¡­ yo-you¡­?" The woman struggles out. "No need to talk right now. I''ll fix you right up and then you can ask all the questions you want." ''System buy whatever I need to fix this.'' [Host can purchase a multitude of items. Please decide.] ''Purchase the recovery staff.'' [Host ha-] I pull the staff out and try to use it. [Host does not meet the requirements.] ''Fuck!'' The woman holds a hand out towards me to stop me. "The-there''s¡­ n-no¡­ nee-need t-to¡­ tr-try.." Her voice cuts off. ''Purchase the elixir.'' [Host has purchased the elixir.] I place the elixir to her lips and have her drink it. The wound on her body starts to close, but her eyes are still closed. I check her pulse and feel a faint one. I let out a sigh and look towards Gawain. "What a fucking day." "Certainly looks like a busy one." "Come on let''s get them to a bed." I pick up the older lady and put her on another horse that a bandit was riding. I move the horses towards an empty plain. ¡­ After an hour of travel, I stop the horses and set up a camp. Chapter 14: Resting Easy Ten days have gone by and I''ve finally finished digging the graves for the Lorca Tribe. Tomorrow I''ll move their bodies into the graves. While doing so I encountered a few nomads that watched me dig the graves. I returned to the camp I had set up. I left Gawain to guard the two slumbering women, while I buried the bodies. "Are there any signs of them waking up?" I say looking at the two of them. Gawain shakes his head. "Thanks for the help Gawain." "No problem kid. You should get some rest. You look terrible." "You''d look just as bad if you had the opportunity to save them, but wasted time messing around." I go over to a pot and start cooking a soup to eat for us. "Boy you can''t think of it like that. There''s no way you would have made it in time. You reached them and managed to save two of them. Look at the life that you saved rather than the ones that you lost. You can keep the losses in your heart, but you need to continue down your path. If you can''t do that, then what was the point of your journey to this point." Stunned at his response I turn and nod at him. "You know I forgot you were a general for a while too." "Of course I was! I was the strongest one too!" He lets out a laugh. We continued our conversation as I readied food. -- "Wh-where a-am I?" A feminine voice says as a lull in our conversation appeared. I put my food down and move towards the voice. "Are you able to move?" I say looking down at the older woman. She sits up and looks at her surroundings. "So that nightmare really did happen¡­" I look at the woman who has a face full of sorrow. "I couldn''t save them. I got there too late." I say to her while Gawain watches on. "No. You did a good job, lad. You saved my life and my daughter''s." She says struggling to smile. "I can not thank you enough for saving her." Her eyes looking to her daughter with gentle eyes. Her stomach growls from hunger and the bed on the opposite side moves as well. I move over to the pot and pour some food for the both of them.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. Lyn wakes up and looks at her surroundings. "Mom!" She tries to get up and move towards her mother, but she starts to fall. "I got you. Please be careful you haven''t eaten anything in 10 days." I lift her back up and put her back in her bed in a seated position. I had over a bowl of food to Madelyn and another to Lyn after receiving it from Gawain. After they finish eating, I take their bowls and put them back near the basin. "We need to take care of something outside. Please be careful with where you step." I exit the tent and look towards Gawain. "We need to set up a method to obtain food without having to go hunt. I''d rather we didn''t leave them alone here until they can at least defend themselves properly." Gawain looks at me with a strange look. "Why don''t I just go out to hunt and you stay back to watch over them." "Oh, right. We could do that." I say with a sigh. "Kid. I understand what it''s like to feel like it''s your fault people died, but I''ll tell you one thing right now. Turning your brain off isn''t going to help you. So, start to think about what you can do and do that." I look at him and nod. I suppose I could practice my sword skills. I hear a loud noise inside the tent and rush inside. ¡­ (Inside the tent) "Mom what happened? Where''s dad?" Lyn says rapidly towards Madelyn. "Lyndis¡­" She looks at her daughter seeing the tears building up her eyes. "Plea-please don-don''t sa-say h-he''s go-gone¡­" Lyn says breaking out into tears. Madelyn seeing her daughter cry tries to move to her daughter to comfort her but falls due to her being asleep for 10 days. The man hearing the noise enters the tent and walks up to Madelyn. "I did warn you to be careful." I sigh picking up Madelyn and move her towards Lyn so they''re on the same bed. "If you two need anything else I''ll be just outside." Madelyn nods while Lyn hugs and cries into her mom''s shoulder. "Don''t worry, the bandits can''t reach us here. They''ll protect us." ¡­ I was practicing my sword technique when I hear footsteps from the tent. I stop and turn towards the sound and see Lyn standing there. Her eyes are red from the crying she was doing. I look at her and see she has a determined gaze. "Please teach me how to fight." "Okay. I''ll teach you, but right now you need to recover. That poison is still in your system." "Bu-" "I understand that you want to get stronger, but if you start training now, you''ll only harm yourself and make your mother worry more." Lyn nods her head and goes back in the tent. "I have my work cut out for me¡­" I head back in the tent for the night. ¡­ The next day we buried the fallen tribe members and I gave the two woman some time to deal with their losses. I spent the next 6 months training Lyn. Her technique more like flowing water than the ferocious technique I use. I was by the campfire with them when Madelyn spoke up. "Percival¡­" I look up towards Madelyn while cleaning my blade. "I would like your help getting to my old home¡­ I don''t know if I''ll be accepted back, but it''s all we have left." I finish cleaning my blade and put it away. I look towards Lyn who is looking at her mother confused. Seeing that expression gives me a gentle smile. I nod towards Madelyn who looks between Lyn and I with a smirk. "Oh¡­" She says while switching between us before laughing. Lyn confused about something else now, decides to focus on the important question. "Where are we going mother?" "We''re going to Caelin. I don''t know if they''ll approve me coming back, but I will return. Especially with you two at my side." -- Lyn is 18, Percival is 20 and Madelyn is about 34 or 35ish. Chapter 15: The Plot Begins -- (??? POV) "Go! Get rid of that scum from my sight. I don''t want her coming here and placing a claim for MY title." An angry old man with blue hair says. "Ye-yes sir!" The servant rushes off and goes to set up the plot to get rid of a bug. "Hmph, no one can stand in my way." The old man gets up from his chair and moves towards a bottle. He grabs it and leaves the room. -- (Percival''s POV) We have started our journey for Caelin after a week of preparation. Our first stop is the city of Bulgar, the commercial center in Sacae. It is on the border of Bern, Lycia and Sacae. "Look, Percy, someone''s started a fire that way!" Lyn says running up to me. "Let''s go see who it is then¡­" ''Hopefully it isn''t any bandits¡­'' ¡­ We arrive at the fire and see it surrounded by men holding torches. ''So, this is where the bandits went that we''re supposed to deal with in the prologue.'' "Percy, we have to do something!" Lyn says grabbing hold on my shoulder. "Lyn first listen," I turn to look her in the eyes. "Never rush in without a proper plan." I say giving her a smile. I can see Gawain holding his laughter behind me. ''Oi, I plan out a lot of things. You just don''t see it!'' Fuming at his laughter. "First step of forming a plan. How many bandits do you see?" "There''s 4 at the main entrance with torches. 6 around the left and right side each. There might be more around the back¡­" Lyn looks back towards where I was and doesn''t see me. Looking back at the village she sees a building on fire and Percy rushing towards the bandits at the main gate with his sword out. Lyn grabs her sword and starts running down. "Be careful!" Madelyn yells behind her. ¡­ A wind blade cuts through the lead bandit''s hand. Dropping it and the torch it was carrying. "Ahhhhh!" The rest surprised by this, start to look behind them. Another wind blade comes in and decapitates one of the bandits leaving 3 left. "We''re under attack!" A bandit yells out alerting the rest of them. The bandits on the side throw their torches at the village and starts to rush the front entrance. I send out wind blades in the direction of the torches trying to put them out, but only a few do. "Lyn! Get the torches!" Some of the bandits hearing my command stop moving towards the entrance and start trying to make the fire grow faster. "I''m on it!" She yells back and rushes the left side from a wide flank. Only two bandits guarding that side, she should be able to handle it. A bandit charges forward with an overhead swing. Expecting this I sidestep it and pierce his heart with my sword. Another one trying to take advantage of my distraction strikes at my head. I use my replicate skill and my double smashes his axe into that bandit. "Wha-" "There''s two of them!" I take this break that they''re giving me to look at what''s around me. Two dead bandits, one disabled. I order my duplicate to move towards the right side and the back to check for bandits and put out the fires. ''Ok, so about 14 left. How''s Lyn doing?'' I take a glance towards the left side and see Lyn in a fight with one bandit. One of them already dead on the floor. ''Good she isn''t hurt yet. She''s stronger than she was in the prologue.''Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. The bandits seeing me distracted try to rush at me again, but I sidestep all of their attacks. "Why is he so fast!" I parry a strike and take out a bandit. Continuing this method of fighting I wipe out the remaining bandits when my duplicate comes back. After all the bandits are dead, I look towards Lyn. She finished her fight and is putting out the fire. The duplicate points toward a building on fire and I can hear screaming from inside it. My duplicate de-summons and I rush in to see if anyone is inside the building. Inside the village I can see a bunch of villagers surrounding the building and they seem panicked. "Is there anyone inside it?" I look towards the closest person. "Ye-yes a-a fam-family!" The young lady says stuttering. I rush inside the building and see if there''s anyone I can rescue. "Percy!" I hear Lyn''s voice, but I''m distracted with the people in the building. I enter into a large room where a pillar is crushing a young woman''s leg and a young boy, and an older man are trying to lift it. The three see me and instead of the agony in their eyes are replaced with hope. I rush forward and lift the pillar up. The man picks up the woman. "Thank you, I''ll never forget this." The boy with the man nods and all three head outside. "There''s another family upstairs!" He says just remembering that. "Go! I''ll go get them." After they leave, I start to hear crying over the sound of wood burning. I move towards it and find a young child crying over a body. I move over to the body to see if there''s a pulse¡­ there''s nothing. I move to grab the child, but they won''t let go of the body. "Come on kid. She''s gone you have to come with me if you want to live." The child keeps crying while hugging the body. I lift the body and the child looks up at me with tears in his eyes. "Mama!" I move to grab the kid and put her on my back. "Listen little one. Just hug my neck tight okay?" The child listens and holds on. She starts crying into my shoulder, while I carry them outside. After I get outside, I lean down and put the body down. "Is any member of her family here?" The child on my back stopped crying and just hugging onto me for dear life. "She came to our village recently with her child. She didn''t have anyone else with her, so we let her stay with us." The woman who had her leg crushed by the wooden pillar says. "So, she doesn''t have any family here¡­" I move the kid from my back to be in front of me. Well I try to but her grip on my neck is a bit too much. I don''t want to hurt her either so she can stay there for now. "Can you let go?" "No!" "Please?" "No!" I sigh at the kid''s antics. "Can you take care of her?" I look towards the three people I rescued. "No!" The girl says, but I ignore her and look towards them. "So-sorry w-we can-can''t afford it." The woman stutters out. "Don''t worry. You did just lose your house. I understand." "Anybody here capable of doing it?" I hear slight whisperings, but one single sentence gains my attention. "The devil is in her head; we don''t want her." It looks like the girl heard it too, by the way she''s putting me in a chokehold. My hand reaches for her trying to get her to loosen her grip, but to no avail. "Alright kid, I can''t breathe if you keep choking me." She loosens her grip but stays attached. "I''m staying with you." "Okay kid." I head out back to our group. ¡­ "Why''d you rush in after telling me to plan!" Lyn says stomping up to me. "What was the point of that?" I look at her with a confident smirk. "Naturally because I''m strong enough not to need a plan." With my arms on my sides and my chest out. Gawain and Madelyn are giggling to themselves behind Lyn, while she is fuming. "Hmph. We''ll see how long you can last without me planning out your steps." She says with a frown. I put a hand on her head and ruffle it. "I can''t go anywhere without my strategist!" Lyn looks at me with a bright smile and then I feel a slight pinch on my neck. "Percy, why do you have a child on your back? Don''t tell me you kidnapped her!" Lyn says looking surprised, while Madelyn walks up to talk her off my back. "Now, now Lyn. There''s no need to be so aggressive with him. I''m certain he has a good reason. Right, Percival?" Madelyn says with a smile that isn''t really a smile. "He might be her dad." Gawain decides to add to the conversation. I feel a chill when he says that. Lyn is glaring at me, while Madelyn is looking at me with a neutral face. ''Uh oh.'' The child on my back with her infinite wisdom decided now was the time to chip in. "Dad!" "Wait! Hold on! I just saved her from the building on fire. Her mother died in the fire and the villagers didn''t want to accept her." Lyn puts away her sword, wait when did she pull it out. Madelyn and Lyn walk over and look at the child. "Come on little one." Lyn says holding her hands out expecting the kid to turn towards her. "No! Staying with dad!" Lyn starts to sulk hearing that response, while Gawain starts laughing loudly. "Great. I''m a dad already¡­" I grab her off my back and put her in front of me while I sit down. I move to push her hair off her forehead to see the mark the villagers were talking about, but she stops my hand. "No!" "I promise you that I won''t leave you no matter what." "No!" "How about this then. I show you my secret and you show me your mark?" "You go first!" Pointing towards my eyes I say "Watch." I show her the lion brand in my eyes and give her a smile. "See? That''s my secret." She starts shaking with excitement and she rushes me for a hug. "You''re branded, kid? That explains the strength and skill¡­" Gawain says to himself. Madelyn and Lyn look on confused at the conversation. While the little kid is hugging me, I move her hair covering her brand. What''s hidden beneath was the brand of a dragon. Behind me, Gawain lets out a breath. "I know, Gawain." I nod and then turns back to her. "What''s your name?" "Athena." ''Whoever named her knew what the brand on her forehead meant for her future.'' "Alright, Athena welcome to the team." Lyn comes up behind her and ruffles her hair. "Welcome to the team, Athena." She says with a smile. Athena''s eyes tear up. "Thank you!" She goes back to crying. "We''re going to have work on that though." Madelyn comes up behind me. "So, you''re her father?" "I suppose I am now." Little did I know I had my work cut out for me. Chapter 16: Footsteps of Fate Traveling with the group and Athena has shown to be a difficult task. Athena does not let me go no matter what time it is. Even while we are eating, she keeps her arms tightly wrapped around me and Lyn has taken to feed her while she''s in this stance. We''ve gotten her to stop holding me so tight, but she still doesn''t want to be carried by anyone else. "Percy! We finally reach Bulgar! We should stop here to purchase our supplies." Lyn says grabbing hold of my hand trying to run into the city. Athena tries to pull Lyn''s hand away but can''t. "Slow down Lyn. We don''t want to lose your mother in the city so stick close." I stop her from moving forward to explain what we should do. "Make sure you stick close ma''am." Athena is pouting while looking at me. "Don''t worry Athena. I won''t let you go anywhere without me either." She nods and goes back to resting in my arms. She really is clingy for a five-year-old. I suppose it''s because of the family she lost already¡­ I''ll have to come up with something to help her. Madelyn looks at the three of us with a gentle smile and nods her head. "Don''t worry about me. I don''t wish to interfere with you two." I shake my head and enter the city with Lyn and the rest following behind. ¡­ "So, the little lion is prowling the plains¡­" A figure says while watching the group enter the commercial hub. "They''ll want to hear about this." The figure grows a smile that begins to disfigure his face. ¡­ Lyn pulls me along into a weapon shop with Gawain and Madelyn laughing behind us. ¡­ "We finally have everything right?" I ask packing away the wrappings I bought into my pack. "Yes, we should have everything we need." Gawain says mumbling out, clearly bored at all the shopping. "A big man like you shouldn''t tire so easily." Madelyn says giving him a smile. Gawain shakes his head exasperated. Lyn walks over and pulls me up from my sitting position. She leads me towards the exit, while Gawain and Madelyn follow. Behind us a man''s voice rings out. "Oh, my heart! What a dazzling vision of loveliness!" ''Oh great. Looks like the timeline still holds up at least¡­'' Lyn continues pulling me towards the exit, while Gawain turns to look towards the person yelling. "Come on Percy!" ''Well she''s ignoring him. She isn''t supposed to, but let''s see how Sain deals with this.'' "Wait, O beauteous one! Would you not favor me with your name? Or better yet, your company." ''I want to beat his face in now.'' The figure stops infront of us. Mounted up a horse a tall man. A lance hanging off the side of his horse, but no blade. ''Ill-prepared for a fight.'' Looking back to him I notice his yellowish green hair, which is held back by a blue headband. His armor colored green. He has more of a slim build, typical of a cavalier. ''Why do I feel killing intent?'' I look around and see Madelyn looking at Sain with a smile that doesn''t reach her eyes. While Lyn is looking at Sain with a frown. Gawain looking on with a smirk looking at me. Athena is asleep in my arms. ''Where''s it coming from?'' "Where are you from, sir knight, that you speak so freely to a stranger?" "Ha! I thought you''d never ask. I am from Lycia. I hail from the Caelin canton, home to men of passion and fire!" "Shouldn''t that be "home to callow oafs with loose tongues"?" "Nice one!" I say trying to give a thumbs up, but both hands occupied. "Ooooh¡­ You''re even lovely when you''re cruel." Lyn turns to me and gives me a smile. "Let''s go, Percy. I''ve nothing more to say." From the side another horseman rides up to greet Sain. "Sain! Hold your tongue!" ''Kent''s here finally. Now we can get something done.'' "Ah, Kent! My boon companion! Why so severe an expression?" The new figure, named Kent appears with a furrow on his brow. His horse carries two swords and a lance. All three of iron make. ''At least this one came prepared for the both of them.'' His hair is a crimson color. His armor is the same color as his hair. He has the same slim build as the other cavalier. "If your manner were more serious, I wouldn''t have to be so severe! We still have a mission to complete, Sain!" "I know that. But how could I remain silent in the presence of such beauty? It would have been discourteous!" "What do you know about courtesy!? She''s already with a man and has a child!" Lyn having enough of their fighting grips my hand tighter and pulls me up to them. "Excuse me! You''re blocking the road. If you would be so kind as to move your horses¡­" Kent realizing his mistake begins to move his horse. "Of course. My apologies." "Thank you." She sighs. "You, at least, seem honorable enough."Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon. "Hm? Pardon me, but¡­ I feel we''ve met before." ''Are we just going to ignore Madelyn standing over there? She''s the whole reason you two are here¡­'' "I beg your pardon?" Lyn says looking at Kent questioning his intent. Sain taking this opportunity to ruin any good groundwork Kent had set up decided to yell out "Hey! No fair, Kent! I saw her first!" Lyn reasonably angry at this begins to walk away furiously. I can''t seem to get out of her grip as she pulls me along. ''When did she get so strong?'' "Tsk! It seems there are no decent men among Lycia''s knights! Let''s go, Percy. I''ve run out of patience!" "Wait, please it''s not like that!" After we''ve walked away Kent turns towards Sain. "Sain, you lout." "Huh? I thought you were¡­" "I am NOT you! Come we must follow her! I suspect she might be-" "Be what? She''s our mission? You''re joking!" Kent begins to ride off after the group. "Wait up!" Sain follows behind. ¡­ "Lyn whatever you do. Don''t panic." Lyn looks at me questioningly. "We have about four men following after us and no it''s not the knights from earlier." She nods her head and tightens her grip on me. "Gawain make sure you stay by her side. We don''t want anyone getting hurt." In front of us blocking our path forward are four bandits. While another four approach from behind us. "Heh heh hehhh¡­ Aren''t you a pretty one! Your name is Lyndis, is it not?" Lyn shocked that they know the name only her parents call her stumbles a bit. "What did you call me? ¡­ Who are you?" The bandit pulls out his axe. "Such a waste. An absolute waste. The things I''d do for gold¡­ Ah, well. Time to die, Darlin''! C''mon boys!" The bandits start to rush towards us. ''There''s more than I can handle¡­'' Lyn thinks to herself before looking to Percy. His constant smile no longer there. Instead it''s replaced by a ferocious smirk. "Athena it''s time to wake up." Athena looking up at Percy and around her realizes something is wrong. I move Athena over to Madelyn. "Please watch over her for now and cover her eyes." Madelyn nods and does as I said. I pull out my Wind Edge and turn towards Lyn. "Lyn, I''ll take care of the ones behind us. You and Gawain take out the four in front." "Wai-" "Don''t worry I''ll be fine!" During our exchange the sound of horses running echoes throughout the plains. "Hey! There she is!" The bandit leader confused looks towards the sound. While looking there he sees two knights ride in on their steeds. "Whew¡­ Finally caught up¡­" Sain says looking relieved. "Hold! You there! What is your business? Such numbers against a girl? Cowards. Every one of you!" ''He''s just ignoring Gawain and I¡­'' "If it''s a fight they want, let them look to me!" The red-haired knight, Kent says charging forward. "Stand back! I''ll take care of this!" Sain says telling Lyn. "No! This is my fight! Stay out of my way!" With a frown on her face she responds. "No time to dally. You two knights help take out the front with her. I''ll deal with the back!" I rush off before they have a chance to respond to deal with the threats. I arrive near the bandits and they start laughing. "You are the only one that''s going to deal with us? Don''t make us laugh! After we''re done with you we''ll tie up those women and ge-" Before he can finish his sentence, my axe has already split his head open. "Next." I say with an axe in one hand and a sword in the other. ¡­ Sain charges forward at a bandit hiding in the woods. He tries to pierce the bandit with his lance, but the bandit easily dodges it. He then strikes out with his axe, but misses. Kent seeing Sain use a lance against an axe is befuddled. "Sain! Why aren''t you using your sword?" "The lance is more heroic. A knight should look heroic, don''t you think?" Kent shaking his head. "You''re hopeless. If you don''t take fighting more seriously, you''ll end up dead!" Sain looks embarrassed while looking away from Kent. "Truth be told, I¡­ forgot to buy a sword." Kent sighs and tosses him his extra. "Use it. I''d rather see you use it rather than rely on your bragging." "Are you sure? My thanks, Kent!" The bandit confused as to why he gave them this much time for the exchange rushes back in. As they continue their fight Kent charges at a bandit. He uses his blade to make short work of the bandit, but it isn''t enough. The bandit still stands. Lyn seeing this as an opportunity rushes forward and takes out that bandit. Sain finishes his fight with the brigand in front of him but receives a wound. Lyn upon seeing this questions him. "Why have you not healed yourself?" Sain now feeling the injury looks at it. "Huh? Hey! What a cad I am! To wrinkle that perfect brow of yours with worry for me¡­" "Uh¡­ I was thinking of giving you a vulnerary, but¡­ It looks like you''re fine. So, never mind." "No, wait! I''ll take it! Please! I''ll take it!" Lyn throws it over to Sain who applies it to his wounds. "Ah much better. You have my gratitude as well, my angel!" "¡­" The bandit leader rushes towards Lyn who is distracted by Sain''s antics. He slashes his axe out at Lyn, but she manages to just barely dodge. She ends up taking a long cut on her left arm. "Tsk!" She slashes back and pierces her sword into his chest. "Blast¡­ There was only¡­ supposed to be a lone¡­ girl¡­" The bandit says as his last words before fading away. Kent finishes off the last bandit with a swift strike to his neck. "Percy!" Lyn rushes over to the other side of the battlefield, but sees Percival standing over the corpses of four bandits. No injuries on him. ¡­ "Percy!" I hear Lyn''s voice call for me and I see her rush towards me. "Yes? Did you finis-" I notice a wound on her arm and walk towards her. I gently grab a hold of her arm and have her sit down. Madelyn and Gawain walk over to us. Madelyn looking at the wound looks shocked. "Lyndis are you okay?" Her mother walks up beside her and looks at the wound. I pull out some wraps and a vulnerary to cleanse the wound. "Lyn this is going to hurt a little bit, but it''s so it doesn''t get infected." I apply the vulnerary to the wound, but instead of the pained yelp I expect. I see Lyn looking on with a smile on her face. ''What''s there to smile about? You just got hurt Lyn. Whatever you can smile all you want while I worry.'' I clean the wound and wrap it. "It should be fine within a day or so with the vulnerary." "Thank you, Percy!" I give Lyn a nod and look towards the rest of the group. Sain has an injury as well. "As for you¡­ You''ll be fine. A knight should be able to handle that." "So cold!" "Now for these knights of Lycia. You were going to share why you are following us?" Lyn says looking over at them. Athena hops out of Madelyn''s arms and jumps, surprisingly, into Lyn''s arms. "Are you okay?" Athena asks looking at Lyn''s wound. "I''ll be fine thanks to you and Percy." She says with a smile. Athena snuggles into Lyn''s arms and Lyn turns back to the knights. Kent seeing this begins his story. "Yes. We have ventured from Caelin, in Lycia, in search of someone." "I''ve heard of it yes. The country beyond the mountains in the south-west, correct?" "Correct. We''ve come as messengers to the lady Madelyn, who eloped with a nomad 19 years ago." Lyn looks towards her mother and her mother gives her a smile. Not wanting to ruin the surprise I say "Madelyn?" Kent nods and looks at me. "Our lord the marquess of Caelin''s only daughter. He was heartbroken his own daughter would abandon him so. Eventually, the marquess simply declared that he had no daughter." Madelyn hearing this has a sad smile on her face reminiscing her time in Caelin. Sain speaks up to finish the story. "And then, this year, we received a letter from Lady Madelyn. It said she, her husband, and their daughter were living happily on the Sacae plains. The marquess was ecstatic to learn he had a granddaughter of 18 years. I remember the smile he had on his face when he announced that he''d suddenly become a grandfather. The granddaughter''s name is Lyndis. This was also the name of the marquee''s wife, who passed away." "Lyndis?" "That she should bear this name thawed the marquee''s heart. Now his only wish is to meet his daughter''s family at least once. This is why we''re here. We didn''t know that Lady Madelyn and the Lorca Tribe had died a few days after sending her letter¡­ We only learnt of the tribe''s demise shortly after arriving here in Bulgar." Kent picks up from here "But we also learned all was not lost. Her daughter yet lives. We heard she was living alone on the plains¡­" "Well, there''s a few things I want to say." I say turning their attention towards me. "First is that Lady Madelyn isn''t dead she''s standing right there." I point towards Lady Madelyn who is waving at them. "What!" They both exclaim. "They said everyone except Lyndis was killed¡­" Kent says looking at her confused. "You do look like the portrait though¡­ and Lyndis is here with you¡­" Kent looks between the two of them and says, "The resemblance between you two is remarkable." "Greetings young knights." Madelyn says with a smile on her face. "A pleasure to meet you lady Madelyn." Kent responds and Sain fumbles out a "Hello!" Chapter 17: Sword of Spirits "Wait! That bandit called me Lyndis, too!" "What? How could he have-" Kent says confused. Sain cuts off Kent. "He was a henchman of Lord Lundgren, wasn''t he?" "Why would my uncle try to kill my daughter?" Madelyn looks worried at Lyndis'' well-being. "If everyone assumes, you''re dead and Lyndis is your daughter that makes her a claimant for the title. So, he''s taking out any threats for it. He wants it for himself." Lyn, Madelyn, Athena and Gawain look at me surprised. "What?" I look back at them. "I didn''t think you''d be able to get to that point." Gawain says with a smirk. "Hmph. I might make it look like I can''t think with how I rush in, but I only do that because no opponent so far has needed a plan." I mumble out. Athena turns her surprised look into pride. "Heh. Naturally you''re the smartest!" "Heh!" I say with a look of pride. The others turn back to the conversation ignoring me. "I don''t have an interest in inheriting the title!" Lyn says after pinching my side. "Your granduncle is not the sort of man to believe that. He will continue the attempts on your life." Sain says solemnly. Lyn and Madelyn look to me. "What?" "What should I do?" Lyn asks not sure of whether it''s safe to continue the journey. "Accompany us to Caelin. Continuing on this way is dangerous." Kent says with a warning tone. She nods. "We were heading that way. The only added feature to this journey is a sense of danger now." I look towards her. "Percy¡­ I understand if you don''t want to continue this journey." "Well what do you want me to do?" "Your companionship would do much to ease my journey, but,,, it''s going to be so dangerous." Madelyn says solemnly. "Please continue your journey with me." Lyn says bowing her head. "Lyndis! You can''t ask someone to put their life at risk for this!" Madelyn starts scolding Lyn. "There''s no need to worry Lady Madelyn. I was planning on following you guys if you decided to ditch me anyway." I say scratching my cheek. "Truly?" Lyn says looking at me. "Anything to help you two." I say with a grin. She smiles back. "Thank you!" "Before we travel to Caelin, let us take a detour. There is a sacred sword enshrined in an altar east of here. The people of Sacae go there to pray for safety at the onset of a long journey." "I''ll go wherever you lead Lyn." Athena pinches my cheek. "I''ll listen to you too. Just don''t use so much strength please." ¡­ "Old Man! Stay where you are and hold your tongue!" A brute of a man shoves an elderly priest. "Threaten me as you will, but I will not give up the Mani Katti. It is under divine protection. It cannot and will not be removed from its place of rest!" The elderly man responds. "You''re a fool, old man, what good''s a sword if you don''t use it?" "Use it? In combat? Sacrilege!" "Sacrilege? I am Glass! The gods fear my name! My swordplay is peerless! And if I want this sword, this sword I shall have! Now, get out of my way!" Glass pushes the old man out of the way and goes for the sword. "This is it! It''s more magnificient than I''d imagined! This sword was made for a swordsman of my skill." He goes to lift the blade from its scabbard but cannot. "What''s this? I can''t draw the sword¡­"The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. "The spirits of the blade have judged you and you have been rejected." "What?" He looks towards the priest and unsheathes his own blade. "Get out of my sight!" He charges towards the priest and slashes down at him. Before he can even cut the robes of the priest his blade is stopped. "I heard there was a worthy swordsman in here¡­ Let this lion see your skills." Percival says with a smile looking at Glass. "Get out of here old man. I''ll keep him busy for you." The priest hearing this nods and runs out to get help for the young man. ¡­ (Outside the Temple) A woman approaches a group of people. Two on horseback, an older woman carrying a child, an older man with a sword on his hip and the last a beautiful green haired woman. "Why did Percy have to leave me with these knights¡­ Couldn''t he take care of his business after we reach a camp¡­" The green haired woman mumbles to herself. The elderly woman carrying the child smiles at the girl''s antics. "If you''re that attached to him, you should let him know before someone steals him." The woman hearing this last sentence walks up to the group. "I beg your pardon, milady. Are you headed east? To the altar?" "Yes, we are indeed." Lyn says looking at the woman. "Then you must hurry and help the priest there. I saw a band of local ruffians head in there not too long ago. They seemed intent on stealing the altar''s sacred sword!" "The Mani Katti¡­ I cannot allow this to happen!" "You look like a virtuous group. Please, help him!" "Lyndis, are you planning?" Sain says looking at her. "Percy didn''t say to wait for him so we''re going to the priest''s aid." Kent and Sain nod. They charge forward into the bandits around the temple. ¡­ (Inside the Temple) "Come on Glass! You said you were peerless! You can''t even block a single one of my strikes." I strike continuously leaving slashes all on his body. "Yo-you monster. Who do you think you are? What chance do you think you have against me?" "Me? I''m the Lion of the Black Fang!" With that I plunge my sword into his chest. "You¡­ you¡­ urr¡­ urgh¡­" ''That should let that bug following us be distracted with reporting for a moment.'' I pull the sword out of his chest and wipe it off on Glass. "Tsk. Got it dirty again. Hopefully they didn''t leave like I told them." The sound of steel clashing against another can be heard outside. Sigh. "Looks like Lyn couldn''t deal with sitting still." I walk outside and see Lyn cut down the last bandit. "Yo!" I call out to them and the priest runs back inside the temple. "Percy!" Lyn looks over at me. Seeing me come out of the temple gives her an expression of relief. Before she stomps over to me. "Uh¡­" I rush back inside the temple behind the priest. "Percy!!" Lyn follows close behind. Before she gets a chance to grab me the priest speaks up. "Ah, your clothing¡­ Are you of the Lorca tribe?" Lyn distracted by him turns her attention to him. I give the priest a thumbs up. He nods at me. ''What a hero!'' Lyn gives me a glare telling me that we aren''t done yet. "I''m Lyn, the chieftain''s daughter. Are you hurt. Sir?" "Thanks to you, I am unscathed. You have my gratitude." He bows towards both of us. "And the sword? Is it safe?" Lyn says looking for it after accepting the bow. "Yes, I have sealed the sword safely away. Until I removed my spell, the sword cannot be drawn. Now, as a token of my gratitude, I shall allow you to lay hands upon the Mani Katti. Touch the blade''s pattern and pray for a safe journey." "Oh, thank you so much." Lyn places her hands on the blade. The priest and I both notice it start to glow. "Hm?" "What? Did-" The temple flashes with a bright light. "The sword¡­ It''s glowing." Lyn says looking down upon the blade. "Ah. Hm¡­ It''s the power of the spirits. Lyn, they have looked into your soul, and they call out to you." "What does that mean?" She says not taking her eyes off the blade. "You are its rightful owner. You are to wield the Mani Katti." "No¡­ I can''t¡­ I couldn''t¡­" "It is the sword''s wish. If you require proof, draw it from its sheath." "Um¡­" She pulls on the sword and it comes out without a struggle. "It came out¡­ effortlessly." "I never dared hope that I might meet the wielder of the Mani Katti in my life. I am indeed fortunate to see your sword reach your hands." "The spirits really did pick the best person for the job." I say putting a hand on her shoulder. "It''s proof that you, Lyn are destined to face many ordeals. So, tell me Lyn. Are you ready to go headfirst into your destiny?" Lyn nods her head and returns my statement with a smile. "Yes sir!" ¡­ We exit the temple and continue our journey. Lyn continues to inspect the Mani Katti, while I carry Athena. "So that is the Mani Katti¡­ A blade with no equal." "This is all so unbelievable. Perhaps the most famous sword in all of Sacae¡­ in my hand." "What''s so unbelievable, Lyn? That you are worthy of such a blade?" Lyn looks at me and nods. "Hmph. If the sword didn''t pick you then it wouldn''t be able to pick anyone else. You''re the only one I know that''s capable of living up to it." I say with a smile. Athena surprisingly nods at the statement as well. "Stop it! I¡­ I''m nothing special!" "Lyn, you''re more special than you realize." I say with a grin. Her face turning red with a blush while Madelyn says "Ohhhh~?". With Gawain also pitching in. "Think of it this way. Some weapons feel more comfortable in your hand, right? Well, the Mani Jatti itself feels very comfortable with you. It also doesn''t appear that it accepts either of us." Lyn looking at me, breaks from here reverie. "It¡­ does feel right in my hand. A blade that only I can wield. That seems reasonable enough. I can understand that. Look at it, Percy. This is the Mani Katti. This is¡­ my sword. I must care for it well." "Are you gloating Lyn? How low, knowing I always wanted my own named blade." I say building up fake tears in my eyes. "You have that axe!" Gawain says yelling out not allowing me to bully Lyn. "Tsk" I look at Gawain with a pout. ¡­ (In Caelin''s Castle) "What? Madelyn''s daughter is still alive?" "Uhh¡­ Yes, Lord Lundren. The girl is traveling with Kent and Sain, as well as three unknown individuals. What are your orders? If we let them be¡­" "Bah! I''ve heard that northern Bern is full of bandits. She''s just a girl. She''ll not survive her journey here. I''m more concerned with my older brother. His life must be ended quickly. The poison¡­ I will not accept any blunders." "Yes m''lord. He suspects nothing and continues to drink it. The marquess''s death, due no doubt to "sudden illness", is not far off." "Heh heh heh. Soon¡­ Soon Caelin will be mine!" Chapter 18: Band of Mercenaries ''Hmm¡­ Should I purchase some summon skills¡­'' ''Actually, I''ll get a proper sword weapon. I can''t keep using this Wind Edge.'' [Host can unlock the forging system and proceed to create his own weapon that way.] ''Let''s do that then. Purchase the forging system.'' [Host has purchased the forging system. Please choose the style of blade.] ''A western sword with a lion''s head where the blade is coming out.'' [Please choose sword class: Slim Bronze Iron Steel Silver Glass Killer Brave Breaker Devil Blessed Superior Blade Storm Sword Magic Sword El tomes] ''Storm Sword.'' [Host has chosen Storm Sword. Please choose¡­] ¡­ After a few minutes of designing my sword I achieved the result I wanted. The sword I picked looked quite large for a one-handed blade. The hilt is decorated with knights charging and at the guard is a lion whose mouth opens to let the blade flow freely. The blade''s color is a beautiful silver. The scabbard is black in color. It has a very simple design. Only a single lion on a hill overlooking the moon. The sword was a storm sword meaning it has the capabilities of ranged attacks. For ranged attacks I decided to copy Vergil''s method of ranged sword attacks. A sphere of sword strikes would surround the target leaving cuts all over. The sword grants the host +10 speed and +10 strength. As well as the ability to summon the sword to the user''s hand at any time and the ability to heal. ''Create.'' [Host has created ''unnamed blade''. Would Host like to name the blade?] ''I''ll name it later when I come up with one.'' ''It''s been 10 days since we''ve left the plains¡­'' "Percy!" Lyn shakes me. "Hmm?" I say waking up from a daze. "Are you alright? I was calling your name and you weren''t responding." "Sorry I was thinking about something. Is there an issue?" Lyn looks at me worried. "You know you can talk to me about anything." She says giving me a smile. "Thanks, Lyn. But it isn''t anything serious!" I say returning the smile. She hesitates for a minute. "This village¡­" She starts to say but can''t finish her sentence. I turn to look at what she''s talking about and my eyes go wide. Every building burnt to the ground. Bodies gone to who knows where. The stone around the buildings crumble due to the lack of maintenance on them. "This place¡­ It''s¡­" Lyn starts up again. "It''s in ruins. Looks to be the work of bandits¡­" I say sighing. "Why doesn''t their marquess do anything to help?" Sain asks from the side on horseback. "Taliver Mountain is home to a gang of vicious, ruthless bandits. No marquess holds power here¡­" She looks down at her feet and her mother walks over to hold her hand. She also pulls me closer. Madelyn starts to speak up. "Our village was near here, on the other side of the mountain. Our people were¡­" "The Taliver bandits came at night. All it took was one night¡­ The survivors numbered less than ten, including us." Lyn says picking up where her mother dropped her sentence. "They''re soulless beasts. I will never forgive them. Never." "Lyn¡­" I look at her guilt on my face for not being able to save her tribe. Madelyn shakes her head and Athena leans her head on me. "I am not running away. I will be back¡­ someday. I''ll be stronger¡­ I will break their swords beneath me like twigs beneath a stallion''s hooves. I will avenge my people. I''ll do everything in my power." She says with a determined look and then mumbles "With Percy by my side, nothings impossible." with a red face. "What was that Lyndis?" Her mother says with a smile squeezing Lyn''s hand. "No-nothing." "Naturally you can count on me. I''ll help you through any trouble you encounter, Lyn!" Madelyn''s smile growing wider at that comment while Lyn looks away. "When the time comes, bring me with you." Sain says. "Don''t forget me, either." Kent rides over to input. "Thank you¡­" ... From a distance we can hear shouting of a barbaric sounding man. "Wait right there, little lady! What are going to do to apologize? Huh?" Another voice rings out, a meek girl by the sounds of it. "Uh¡­ I¡­ That is, I¡­" "Hey, she''s quite a catch, eh, Migal? I bet the boss''d give us a pretty penny for her." "Yeah. She roughed me up a bit, so I figure fair''s fair. It''s no more''n she deserves." "I¡­ I¡­" Walking over towards the sound I see a young girl with long purple hair. She''s riding a Pegasus and This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.is carrying a spear on it''s harness. ''Looks like we made it in time to rescue Florina¡­'' I pull out my new blade and get ready for combat. Looking for a time to jump in and make sure she isn''t hurt. What are we gonna do with her flying mule?" "Don''t you dare touch her!" She yells out in a furor. "What? You just watch your mouth, girlie!" Do what you will with me, just¡­ Let her go. Please, I beg of you." "Ha ha ha! Silly twit Pegas-" While talking the bandit is surrounded by a sphere. The bandits around him panic at the sudden sphere. "Run!" I shout to the young girl. She hops on her Pegasus and flies towards us. The rest of the group realizing I pulled out a sword and yelled out turn towards the direction I''m facing. Lyn seeing the Pegasus flying towards us yells out towards it. "Florina? Is that you, Florina?" "Ah! Lyn?" "Florina! What are you doing in a place like this?" "Lyn is it really you? I¡­ I¡­" Florina starts to tear up at seeing her old friend. "Come now, no crying!" "I''m sorry." Kent entering the conversation asks, "Are you acquaintances?" "Not the time for that conversation! I''d like a little help with the bandits in front of us!" I yell out exasperated. "Ah! Sorry Percy!" Lyn shouts out. "Just go warn that village to the West!" I shout back and turn my attention back to the bandits. "Don''t rush in by yourself!" Lyn says as she heads to the village. ''Doesn''t look like there''s any threats in that crowd¡­ Other than maybe that archer¡­ Well time to rush in.'' -- (Inside the Village) "Is anyone there?" Lyn says approaching the village. "Leave us alone, you thugs!" "Go away! Go away! We''ve no more gold for you!" "No, wait! Please! We''re not bandits! We want to help the village. Please listen!" "Remain inside, everyone." An unknown male voice says speaking over everyone. "I''ll go see what''s happening." He walks outside and sees Lyn standing there armed with a sword. "Not bandits, huh? So, who are you?" "My name is Lyn. My colleagues and I are just traveling through here¡­" She turns to look in the direction of the fight. "We saw some bandits about. We''re going to deal with them, but we need you to go warn the villagers." She heads back out to try and help Percival with the fight. "Hey! Wait!" Wil shouts out behind her. She stops and turns to him. "The name''s Wil. I''m a traveler of sorts, too. These villagers have been kind to me. I''d like to fight alongside you." Lyn pleased with the turn of events smiles. "Not at all. We need all the help we can get! Welcome aboard, Wil!" Wil exits the village and sees a bandit near Florina. He pulls out his bow and lines up an arrow. The arrow pierces the bandits eye killing him instantly. Florina seeing this dashes away from that bandit and charges the next. Kent and Sain slaughter a path forward from their position trying to reach Percival, who is distracting 4 of the bandits. ¡­ I''m surrounded on all sides by bandit''s with my new blade in my hands. I look around to see where my allies are and see them making short work of the other bandits. "I can''t let them show me up!" I charge the bandit in front of me and thrust my blade into his eye. Upon seeing my action the bandits, instead of attacking, back away in fear. Taking advantage of this I charge the next and decapitate him. The last two start shaking in their boots. They rush forward at me trying to get rid of the demon in front of them. "Nice try, but you should have done that earlier!" I retaliate by parrying their strikes and doing a single slash motion taking both out. I turn around and look at Migal. I raise my right hand to block the axe strike. I catch it in my hand but feel searing pain from it. I move my hand down to the handle and take the axe from him. He looks at me and says "You''ll live to regret this¡­ My brothers¡­ The Ganelon bandits will not let this s-¡­" My sword pierces his neck. "You''re taking way too long with your threats. Work on that in the next life." I pull the sword out of his neck and shake it to wipe the blood off it. I sheathe it and turn back to the group. I see Lyn taking out the last bandit with a swift slash to his throat. I nod to the group and return to them. I hide my injured hand behind me, because I don''t want to hear anyone complain about my lack of planning. My ear receives enough pain as it is. Lyn looks over to me and sees me giving her a thumbs up and a smile. Gawain and Madelyn run over to us and look over everyone. ''Madelyn definitely saw me get wounded with the look she''s giving me.'' Her eyes threatening me to tell or she''ll do it. ''I''m not going to tell. I don''t want to get yelled at.'' Madelyn walks besides me with Athena in her arms. "You better tell her before I do. Or else." Lyn walks over with the rest of the team. "That''s finally taken care of." She says looking over everyone. "Lyn!" Florina flys over and lands. Jumping off her Pegasus to hug her. "Florina¡­ Why did you follow me? It''s so dangerous?" Florina ignoring the question looks at Lyndis with excitement. "Do you remember the knighting ceremony of the Pegasus Knights of Ilia?" "Yes, you join a band of freelance soldiers to further your training¡­ Is that what bought you here, Florina?" She nods her head. "Uh-huh¡­ I wanted to talk to you before I set out. But when I went to Sacae I heard that you left with some strangers, and¡­" "You were worried for me? Thank you, but I''m more worried about you." "Me?" Florina says looking confused. "Listen, most mercenaries are men, right? Bands of men? I can''t imagine you being at all comfortable around them." "I know¡­ I just have always dreamt of being a Pegasus knight. I imagine it would¡­ just work out. Somehow. After today, I''m not so sure¡­ maybe¡­ I should¡­ just¡­ give up¡­" She says tearing up. "Florina¡­ Don''t cry¡­" "Yes! There''s no need to give up your dream!" Sain shouts suddenly. ''This should be good¡­'' I think looking at Sain. ''He might act like a clown, but he certainly has a way with words.'' "Lovely Florina! I have the most brilliant idea! With the addition of Wil here, we''re a fine group of soldiers, and freelance to boot!" "Wait, did you just include me?" "Of course! We were destined to meet here! It''s fate! Come now, Lyndis''s band of mercenaries is as good a training group as you will find anywhere!" "Sain¡­ This is no joking matter!" Kent looks at Sain exasperated. "No, Kent, Sain has a good idea for once." I say backing up Sain. Kent looks at me shocked at my betrayal, but I just shrug my shoulders. "I can appreciate a good idea when I see one. No matter who''s giving it." I say giving Sain a look. "Lyndis? Um, Lyn? Mercenaries?" Lyn amused at all the interactions turns to Florina. "I can give you details later. This is all a bit rushed. However, Sain is right. Will you come with us, Florina?" "Travel with you, Lyn? Truly? I would be so¡­ so happy!" Sain hopping with pure joy that he has another woman to flirt with says "Fantastic! Beauteous Florina! I am a knight of Caelin." He steps closer to her. "My name is Sain¡­" Florina stumbles back and hides behind Lyn. "Eeek! Stay back! Don''t get so close." "Ah¡­ Beautiful, and yet so modest!" "Did I say Sain was right? I''m sorry can I take that back?" I say looking on at this spectacle. "I beg your forgiveness. Calling us mercenaries¡­" Kent says bowing his head. "No, I approve. We can''t leave Florina on her own. She requires special attention, though. Can I count on you?" "Yes! You have but to ask." Wil looking around at the joyous moment walks up beside me. "So¡­ is it really all right if I travel with you?" He looks towards me. I give him a nod and Lyn responds. "Oh, yes. Of course! If you''re willing, Wil." Wil looks at his feet a bit bashful. "Actually, I''m very grateful¡­ Truth be told, all of my money was stolen, and I''m¡­ at a bit of a crossroads. I would be honored to count myself one of Lyndis''s Legion!" I look at Wil and pat his shoulder. "That''s a great mercenary name!" I start laughing but stop noticing I''m the only one doing so. I look up at the group to see what the issue is, but all I see is Athena looking at me with a frown. Lyn with a worried expression and Madelyn giggling to herself. ''What did I-'' I look at where Wil was standing and where I patted his shoulder. He has blood on his shoulder, but he clearly isn''t wounded. "Percival¡­ Let me see your hand¡­" Lyn says approaching me. "Haha! It''s nothing to worry about Lyn!" I go about hiding my hand behind my back, while backing away. "Percival stop right there!" "Sir Percival it''s best you let her treat your hand before you receive another wound." "Fine¡­ but it''s not because I rushed in without a plan! It happened because he caught me unaware¡­" I say looking at the group. They all nod, but I have a feeling they don''t believe me. Lyn grabs a hold of my uninjured arm and drags me to a large stone and has me sit on it. She pulls out some vulneraries from her pouch, along with some wraps. "I cannot believe you''d try to hide this wound from me!" Lyn says with a glare. "It''s not that bad. I''ve suffered worse." I say looking away. "I can''t have you getting hurt, Percy¡­" She says applying the medicine and wrapping my hand. She looks at me with a gentle smile while holding my hand up. "Now is that better? If you get wounded and hide it from me again, you are going to sit out from any fights we get into." "You wouldn''t!" "I would!" Madelyn laughs loudly at us arguing. "I told you to tell her! You wouldn''t have any problems if you did!" Chapter 19: In the Shadows "Ah, this place should suffice! Tonight''s bed!" Wil says looking at a fortress that hasn''t been maintained in years. Maybe even decades. "This moldy old fortress? Is this the best we can do? Come, Wil! Surely you jest!" Sain says not wanting to sleep in that old fortress. "The bandits keep everything in turmoil around here. No one has time to worry about travelers. And there are rather a lot of us." Wil responds. "It''s the best we are going to find for right now. I say we rest here." I say walking over to the fortress. "This will be fine. Who wants to be stuck inside, anyway? I prefer a place where I can feel the wind blow." Lyn says walking behind me. "As long as I''m at Lyn''s side, I''ll be fine." Florina says following behind. "And for your protection, your man-at-arms Sain will be right here by your side, ladies." He says weirdly excited. "Sain, both you and I are to remain awake. We will alternate the watch." Kent chimes in. "Yeah, Sain and Kent should be a good idea to keep watch. You''re both trained for it." I say yawning. "Ah, alas¡­" "Your pardon, milady¡­" A young woman at the fort calls our attention. "Who''s there?" Lyn asks stopping at the entrance. "I¡­ Forgive my intrusion¡­ My name''s Natalie. I''m from a village not far from here¡­ Ah! Ow¡­" "Ma''am it''s best if you just sit down and don''t put any weight on it." I say looking at her leg. "It''s fine. Don''t worry. It''s from a childhood sickness¡­ I can''t travel far on it, but it doesn''t trouble me much." "What are you doing here all by yourself?" Lyn lets her guard down as she approaches the woman. ''It''s fine for her, since she''s Dorcas'' wife. I have to teach her not to let her guard down though¡­'' "I''m looking for my husband¡­ I heard he was in this area. He said he was going to raise money to have my leg mended. He left the village and hasn''t returned. He''s a kindhearted man, but I think he might be involved in something dangerous. I got so worried¡­" She turns to pull out something from her pouch. From the corner of my eye I can see everyone else relaxed as well. ''I need to work on that for all of them it looks like¡­'' "Here''s a sketch of him. It''s a poor likeness at best, but¡­ His name is Dorcas. Do you know of him?" Lyn takes the sketch and looks at it. "I''m sorry. I don''t believe I''ve seen or heard of him." "I see¡­ if you do meet him, please give him a message. Tell him that Natalie is looking for him." "I will tell him. I promise." ¡­ (After 30 Minutes) "Here they are. We''ve finally tracked down that band that killed Migal." (???) "Carjiga are we attacking at night?" "You''re an idiot, Ratface! There are only a few of them, and some are women! If we attacked them at night, I''d be a laughingstock! Besides, we might hurt the women by mistake! I will not be so wasteful!" "You''re right! You''re so smart!" The bandit named Ratface says trying to kiss ass. "We''ll avenge Migal and get some pretty souvenirs to boot. Who knows, maybe I''ll be a leader after all. Ha Ha Ha! Let''s go! Spread out and encircle the place! Let''s finish this before it gets too dark to see!" Carjiga looks around and spots the new face in the crew. "Hey, you! Your name''s¡­ Dorcas, right?" Dorcas nods at the question. "You haven''t done much since you joined us. If those weapons of yours aren''t just for show, today''s the day to let us see what you can do. Go attack the back entrance to the east. There''s supposed to be a woman inside. Capture her and I''ll increase your share. If you want gold, you''ll get the job done." The bandit turns back towards the fort. Dorcas mumbles to himself. "A bunch of women, huh? It would break Natalie''s sweet heart to see me sink so low¡­" ¡­ "Oh, here you are! How delicious! My blade shall feast well tonight, won''t it?" A shadowy figure says looking down at the group inside the fort and the bandits outside. "Now, which¡­ one¡­ first? Wait! Hold it! There are some nasty ones mixed in with the rest. Mustn''t get one of them. Might ruin my sword''s appetite¡­" ¡­ ''The assassin that Sonia sent for me should take this opportunity to attack me when this battle with the bandits start¡­'' I look towards Lyn and see the group getting ready to sleep. ''I''ll pull him away from the group so they don''t get hurt¡­'' "Lady Lyndis! Outside the fortress! Bandits!" Kent shouts out and rides inside. "Persistent bunch, aren''t they? What do you think? Shall we go out and face them?" Said says readying his weapons. "No¡­ Natalie cannot move well, and that would put her in danger. Let them come to us. We''ll fight here, within these walls." I grab my sword and move towards the southernmost wall. "Percy where are you going?" Lyn says looking at me. "I''ll take care of the southern side. Sain and Wil take the west wall. There''s a damaged part they can climb over. Make sure they don''t get through." Both nod at that. "Kent, Lyn, Florina take care of the east wall. Gawain watch over the people that can''t fight." "Wait!" Lyn tries to stop me from rushing out, but I''m already gone. I dash out and stand in front of the entrance to the fort. "Let''s see¡­ Dorcas is off to the east. Lyn should recognize him¡­ That bandit leader is just sitting over there wasting my time¡­" While I''m talking a bandit charges at me. I dodge his strike and slash out. ''This is just going to be a headache¡­'' ¡­ Kent, Florina and Lyn head to the east wall passing by the main entrance where Percival is fighting. The three stop after seeing him kill the bandits effortlessly.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. "H-He''s str-strong!" Florina says looking on. Kent caught up in watching the ferocious style nods. "We need to guard the east. We cannot hold him back." Lyn says turning to the east and rushing off. "Right!" They both yell following after her. When they reach the entrance they are greeted by an axe flying at them. They dodge it and and Lyn notices a familiar looking man catching the axe returning to him. "You! Tell me, are you Dorcas?" "...How do you know my name?" "Natalie told me. What are you doing with these rogues?" "I need money¡­" "That may be, but¡­ joining up with mercenaries?" "For gold? Anything? Would you hurt your wife?" "What!?" "Natalie is here! We''re protecting her within this fortress! She was so worried that she came looking for you. Think, Dorcas! Would your actions please your wife?" ".... You''re right. I understand. I can''t do this. I''m done with these bandits. Here and now. Allow me to fight with you." Dorcas moves into the fortress and spots his wife. "Natalie!" "Dorcas? Is it you?" "Are you all right? What were you thinking, coming out all this way?" "I was worried about you. Please, don''t let my leg trouble you anymore. You mustn''t put yourself in such danger. Please!" "I''m sorry. I must have been out of my head. I didn''t realize¡­ That girl Lyn made me open my eyes." "Lyndis brought you here?" "I''ll explain later. First we must deal with the bandits. Don''t move from here." "All right. As long as you''re here, I know I''m safe." She says smiling at Dorcas who runs off to join the fray. ¡­ ''Hmm¡­ The assassin hasn''t tried anything yet¡­'' I say my mind occupied by that thought. Looking around the field I see corpses of bandits that tried to kill me, but none successful. ''Maybe he''s waiting to tire me out and to strike in my sleep¡­'' After decapitating the last bandit near me I turn towards the rest. ''About five left around the boss. The east should be covered and Sain should be able to distract them long enough for Wil to take them out. Seeing no other bandits other than the boss and his guards by my side I rush towards him. I strike my blade out at him and he manages to block it. "Urgh! How? Why are you so tough?" He looks at his guards and yells to them. "Bring more men here right away!" One of the bandits tries to run away but is surrounded by a sphere of blades. "No running!" I say as I cut down another bandit. I rush towards the boss again and pierce through his axe. My sword pierces his chest and he spits out his final words. "Arrgh¡­ This isn''t¡­ Not me¡­" I pull the sword out and cut down the other bandit beside him. ''That''s taken care of let''s see how the others are handling it. I return to the fort and see Sain and Wil taking out the last bandit on their side. While Dorcas in the east takes out the last bandit. I move back inside the fort and look towards our recruit. He looks towards me and looks at the carnage behind me. Before he can react his wife runs out. "Dorcas!" He turns away from the carnage and looks at his injured wife. "I''m so sorry, Natalie." "All''s well that ends well. Right, Natalie?" Lyn says walking up to the duo. Dorcas nods his head and says "Our village is close. I''ll take Natalie home and return tomorrow." "Hm? Why can''t we just say our farewells today?" Lyn says not thinking about recruiting him due to his wife. "Well, I¡­ I spoke with I¡­ I''ve been invited to join your group." "But we''re going to Lycia¡­" "I have to go somewhere to earn money. If you think I''ll be of use, I''d like to fight for you. You helped my wife¡­ I owe you." "Dorcas¡­" "Please, Lyn. We are both in agreement on this. Watch over my husband." Lyn nods and I walk over to Natalie. "You said your leg was injured in a childhood accident or sickness? Let me see what I can do¡­" I grab a hold of my sword and cast the healing spell attached to it on her leg. "Try seeing if there''s any pain now." She walks around and begins to grow tears in her eyes. "Thank you!" She says before bursting into tears. "My leg is fixed!" Dorcas walks up to me and bows, but I stop him before he does. "Thank you for helping my wife!" "No need to bow. We''ll be working together for a little bit. It''s the least I can do for my crew." I say with a smile. After a few brief thank yous from the couple they head back to their village. I go over to Gawain. "Keep an eye out. I''m thinking a Black Fang assassin is coming after me soon. Especially with what I''ve shown him today. He''ll think I''ll be tired." Gawain nods and turns his attention back to guarding Madelyn and Athena. ¡­ "Things have finally calmed down." Lyn says looking to her knights. "We''ll continue taking turns keeping watch. Please rest easily." "Is that all right? Are you sure? Sain?" "Oh! Er, yes! Of course!" "Let me warn you¡­ If bandits sneak up on you, they''ll cut you down without mercy. Do you understand that?" Sain getting a bit heated replys "What, do you doubt my bravery? Am I not a Knight? There''s no need to worry! Right, Kent?" "If there''s anything suspicious, We''ll take care of it. Rest assured." "Really? Well, good night then. See you tomorrow." Lyn walks back to the group to rest. I walk over to Sain and pat his shoulder. "You''ll be fine. She''s just worried about you two." I nod towards the both of them. "You''ll be able to handle anything you two set your eyes on!" Kent and Sain look at me and nod. Their energy revitalized after a pep talk. "Let''s go." He says looking to Sain. "Ha! No one ever trusts me¡­" Sain says looking over his shoulder towards me. "Thanks, Percy!" He says towards me. I nod and go to take a rest. ¡­ At least I would be if there wasn''t an assassin lurking around. I rest my head against a wall and keep my eyes slightly open. They are trained on the two knights so whoever it isn''t doesn''t harm them. ''Schwing'' The sound of a sword leaving it''s scabbard resounds in my ears. I see a rather faint light heading for Kent''s neck, but I react faster with my Fairy eyes. Reaching Kent in time I block the strike. "Kent get Sain and guard the rest of the group. Don''t wake them up." Kent hears my voice and turns. Seeing me guarding him from a strike from a cloak wearing figure. "Come now, Percy, there''s no need to be so rude. I just wanted to see what his blood looked like!" I parry his sword and kick him away. Kent runs off with Sain towards the rest of the group. ''Hopefully he doesn''t wake up Lyn. They''ll have more questions then I''ll be ready to answer¡­'' Jerme strikes out at me and catches me off guard. The sword would have struck my arm, but I manage to move out of the way. "Heh! Getting slow Lion!" His next strike aims for my neck, but a swift kick to his sword arm knocks him off course. Another kick to his sword arm makes him stagger back. "Are you losing your touch?" He says continuously mocking me. ''Idiot thinks that''s enough to make me lose my cool and make a mistake.'' "Percy!" I hear Lyn''s voice shout behind me. ''Ah shit. I should finish this faster before h-'' A fireball appears in my line of sight. I use my ranged sword strike to intercept, but Jerme uses this opportunity to dash past me towards the back. He aims his dagger at Lyn and tries to kill her, but Gawain is there to knock him back with a swift kick to the chest. "Heh heh! I''ll tell you what Percival. You let me skin that woman and use her as ribbons I''ll let you run away!" Lyn offended at this like any normal person would be glares at him. "You¡­" Jerme not hearing my response turns towards me, but when he does he''s greeted by my fist. "Tocuhed a sore spot?" He says coughing out blood. "Looks like you have something to protect, boy!" He gets up from his spot and tries to dash past me. I block his strikes towards the rest of the group and with a final swing cut off his sword hand. "You''re getting soft Lion!" A wind blade strikes my back. ''Tsk!'' Gawain starts to move in front of the group and pulls out his blade. He looks in the direction of the magic spells and swings. His slash lights up the entire forest and in it a hooded figure is cut in half. Jerme seeing this, panics. He tries to dash to escape, but my sword catches him. A final slash to his throat sending him to his peace. "G-Gwaah¡­ It hurts¡­ These¡­cuts¡­" His life fading from his eyes. "Percy! Are you alright? Lyn says running up to me with a hand on my back." Gawain also approaches and Athena has tears in her eyes. "Doesn''t look deep kid. Should be fine with a vulnerary." Gawain says inspecting the wound. "Thanks." I turn back to the group. "Let''s get back to sleep. There shouldn''t be anymore people lurking around now. Kent and Sain keep up watch." They both look at me with guilt filled expressions not seeing the attack coming. "It''s not something you two would be able to handle yet. You haven''t dealt with assassins yet. So, don''t worry over something stupid." I say looking at the two of them. "Yes sir!" They both yell before returning to watch. Lyn pulls me over to the room we''re sleeping and starts to tend to my wound. "Lyn it''ll heal with just the vulnerary. You don''t have to keep tending to it." "It''ll get infected otherwise, so I don''t want to hear it." Florina and Madelyn giggle in the corner watching the interaction while Athena snuggles into my arms. "If you stop getting hurt, then I wouldn''t have to do this." "Tsk!" "Don''t ''Tsk!'' at me Percival!" She says with a reprimanding tone. She moves from my back and looks at me. "I don''t want you getting hurt because of me¡­" I look at her and nod. "I''ll be more careful for you Lyn." ¡­ We continue our journey to the border of Bern. Chapter 20: Beyond the Borders "We''ve almost reached the Lycian border." Kent says observing the landscape. "Once we cross, we''ll be safe from the bandits, right?" Lyn says tired of the constant bandit attacks. "We should be. I doubt they''ll be willing to pursue us across the border." Wil moves to fix his bow over his shoulder, but is pushed aside by Sain who goes into a monologue. "Lycia at last! It''s been a long time. Tomorrow, we''ll dine on a feast of Lycia''s finest foods. And the mistress of the inn at the crossing is said to be a beauty. Ah, yes¡­ Food and love. No better way to restore a man''s soul! This is going to be a fine evening, eh, Kent?" "If your behavior is as deplorable as ever, we''d best stay elsewhere. We''re not here for sightseeing." Kent shakes his head. "Once we reach Caelin I''ll have to put you two through some training¡­" I say looking at the both of them. "Oh, come now! That''s not fair!" Sain says loudly. "You will be perfectly fine under his guidance Sain. Kent the inn will be fine." "As you say, milady." "Lyndis! You are truly an angel from on high!" "It nothing. Forget it." She says responding. We continue our journey while Lyn and Florina step closer together to have a word. "Ah! We''ll finally be able to get a good night''s sleep." Florina says a bit too soon. Bandits appear from the mountains to the east of the group. "Ah! Here they are! Over here lads!" "What? Not again! They''re still after us?" Wil pulling his bow off his back turns to face the bandits. "Heh heh heh. Don''t think you''re getting away so easily. You leave alive, and everyone''ll think the Ganelon Bandits have gone soft." "So annoying. When we reach Caelin I''m going to come back just to wipe out the bandits in this mountain range¡­" I mumble to myself. "Cheeky bastard! Let''s get ''em, lads! And no holding back cause of the women! Wipe ''em out!" While the bandits yell to go rush into battle two people enter the field. "Oooh¡­ We''re lost. This makes me so mad!" A lightish purple haired girl says. Her hair tied up in pigtails with a flowing purple scarf going along her back. Wearing white gloves that match the white dress she seems to be wearing. In her hands is a staff with a blue orb at the tip. ''Looks like Serra and Erk are here finally. Having a healer is going to help a lot with the rest of the journey.'' The other figure is a male. His hair is purple as well, but it''s medium length. On his back is a hooded cape that''s colored red with a golden outlining. His shirt colored blue, while his pants are a plainish brown. In his hands is a book. Erk a student of the Mage General of Etruria, Count Reglay or Pent. A kingdom on the Elibe continent. Its military might matches Bern''s. "You told me you were certain this was the correct path." "What''s your point, Erk? What are you trying to say?" "¡­I swear, you are NOT the woman I agreed to escort¡­" He mumbles out. "What? What''s that supposed to mean?" "I heard someone was needed to escort a frail Lycian priestess to Ostia¡­" He shakes his head and looks away from Serra. "Yes, and I''m that priestess." "Frail? You? Serra, you have no need of any escort to protect you. Even the most hardened criminal would flee in terror after five minutes in your company. I''ll return your money. Gladly. Now, will you please go on to Ostia alone?" He says. He truly suffered on his journey with her. "NO! You''re MY escort, Erk! MINE! You''re so clean and tidy. A noblewoman like myself can''t be seen without a proper escort. Your personality''s nothing special, but you''re not bad to look at." "I believe that''s my line. And I have to take you all the way to Ostia. I only hope my nerves can endure the journey." He mumbles out in frustration. "What are you mumbling about? You''re so gloomy! Hm? Something''s happening over there. Let''s take a look!" Quickly distracted by another event around her she rushes off leaving Erk alone.Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. "Ah. Of course. The first opportunity to get involved in trouble, and she jumps right in. No amount of money is worth this. Hoo¡­" The duo move closer to our group before Serra stops. "Wow! A fight! A fight! Erk! Take a look! Fighting those bandits¡­ It''s a young girl!" "Fool! Keep your voice down!" A bandit hearing the two argue rushes over to them. "Eh? What''s this? You in league with that she-devil?" He says raising his bow at the duo. "Ah¡­ This is so wrong¡­" Erk says looking disappointed at his circumstances. "Gyaaa! I''ll take care of you with one swift stroke!" "Erk! Help me!!!" "So¡­ loud¡­ Serra! Behind me! You there! See if you can match me!" The archer launches an arrow towards Erk. Erk dodges the attack and fires back his own in retaliation. A fireball coming out of the magic circle he made striking the bandit in his face. The bandit catches on fire and falls to the ground trying to put it out. "That scream¡­ Look! Percy, someone''s over there!" Lyn shouts out looking towards Serra and Erk. "Lyn go talk to them and see what they''re doing." I say looking towards them. "I''ll distract them for you." I rush into the fight. "Percival! Stop rushing into the fight!" Lyn says exasperated as she moves towards the duo. "Excuse me¡­ Hello?" Lyn says approaching them. "Hm?" Serra turns towards Lyn. "Why are you fighting these bandits?" Erk taking this chance to respond before Serra ruins the conversation. "¡­It just happened." "That''s not true! Those ruffians thought that we were with you!!! You got us into this terrible situation! Now, how are you going to get us out?" Serra starts screaming at Lyn. "Serra, if you''d not been so meddlesome, this all could have been avoided. My apologies. Please trouble yourself with us no more." "But¡­ if you''re going to have to fight anyway, shouldn''t we team up? It will end things faster, right?" "That''s true. Yes! That''s a good idea. Erk! Go and help these ladies." "I''m not a lady!" I yell out cutting down a bandit. "But I¡­ Fine!" Erk turns back to the bandits. "Very good. My name''s Lyn. So tell me, will you join arms with us?" "Yes, we''d be glad to. My name is Serra. This is my escort, Erk. Be a good boy, and go fight now, Erk." Lyn hearing this turns to join the battle and Serra moves further to the back line. Erk lets out a heavy sigh before charging in. ¡­ I rush towards the closest bandit and cut him down. The bandit beside him has an arrow shot through his eye. The next was set ablaze. Sain and Kent are charging through the bandits'' right flank. Lyn rushes forward and starts a fight with the boss of the bandits. "You''re gonna learn why people fear the Ganelon Bandits!" Lyn and the bandit leader start exchanging blows. Lyn manages to sidestep most of the attacks but ends up with a slash on her sword arm. "Tsk!" she manages to land a strike on the bandit''s weapon wielding arm. They continue the fight while I keep the rest of the bandits away from her. Lyn manages to get through the bandit leader''s defense and stabs through his chest. "Blaaaah¡­ Scum¡­ You''re all scum¡­" She removes the blade from his chest and returns to the fight. The bandits seeing the leader killed fight with even stronger furor. Sain and Kent are injured at the end of the fight as well, but nothing life threatening. I walk over to Lyn and look at her would. "Doesn''t appear to be to bad. Looks like you got hurt instead of me this time Lyn." I cast the heal spell with my sword. The wound on the her arm has been healed. "There, that should help." "Thank you, Percy." Kent and Sain both look to me expecting me to do something. "Priestess do you mind healing those two." "Nicely done. That should just about do it." Lyn says looking around the battlefield. "What a surprise. You are very strong, Lyn." Serra says lifting her staff healing the two knights. "Your staff is a wondrous thing. Healing powers amaze me¡­ Wait, Percy how are you healing me without a staff?" "Only those in the service of good can wield these staves. You can also heal others?" The priestess looks towards me. "It''s a blessing granted to my sword." I say responding to them. Everyone in the group looks towards my sword. "Wait. What''s the name of it?" Sain says looking at it. "Regulus." I think of using the name of the brightest star in the Leo constellation. "I''ve never heard of that blade before. Its design is very lion-centric¡­" Erk says looking at it. I give him a smile. "I think it''s very fitting." Erk looks at me confused and then nods. "If you believe so." "You helped us tremendously. Well, it''s time for us to go." Lyn says looking towards Caelin''s direction. "Take care. Good-bye, Lyn." "Fare you well. You, too, Erk." Lyn says nodding to the group. "Good-bye." I wave to them and start to head off. ''Wait where''s Sain.'' "What have we here? Another wildflower? Perhaps a butterfly?" Sain says riding up beside Serra. "Oh my! Are you one of Lyn''s companions?" "Please, call me Sain." "I''m Serra. I serve House Ostia." "Serra¡­ What a lyrical name. I am in service to Castle Caelin." "Oh! So is Lyn a member of the marquee''s family?" "She is the graddaughter of our lord, the marquess." "Hmmm¡­ Such an important person." "Serra¡­ What deviousness are you contemplating now?" "Tee hee! Having a person of power in your debt is never a bad thing!" "You can''t be serious¡­" "Oh, Sain! Do you think we could join the Lady Lyndis''s company? She seems like such a nice person, I would ever so much like to help her." "Of course! We couldn''t be happier!! Why, we were only just saying how we need some fighting power!" "Are you being hunted or something?" Serra says questioningly. "Yes, it''s an inheritance dispute. Assassins everywhere." "Oh my! In that case, my healing staff and Erk''s magic should come in handy." "Well, I, er¡­ It sounds dangerous¡­" "Your staff and magic would be extremely helpful! Please wait here! I will go speak with Lady Lyndis on your behalf." Sain heads off towards Lyn. "I¡­ I.. I think I''m going to be ill." Erk says looking at Sain running off. -- (In Castle Caelin) "That girl crossed the border!?" "Yes, Lord Lundgren. She''s en route to Araphen¡­" "Fool! Send out soldiers to meet her! Hold nothing back! Do anything it finish this now! First the old man, and now this girl¡­ They cling to life like a drowning man to a rock! Double the poison''s strength! If he struggles, hold him down and pour it down his throat! Once the girl is gone, Caelin is mine. I will let no one stand in my way!" He says slamming his fist down on his chair. Chapter 21: Blood of Pride "We''re finally in the city of Araphen now¡­ The second largest city in Lycia." Madelyn says reminiscing about her past here. "Is the marquess here going to be a problem for us Lady Madelyn?" I look towards her. "He might be¡­ He had the idea of marrying me in the past but¡­" She says looking down. "Don''t worry if he tries anything, he''ll have me to face first." I say giving her a reassuring smile. "It does seem awfully busy here. By the way, where''s Kent?" Lyn says looking around. "He said he was going ahead to the castle, but¡­ Ah, here he comes now." Sain points to Kent approaching us on horseback. "Lady Madelyn, Lady Lyndis! Let us proceed to the castle. They''ve prepared supplies for us. The marquess has agreed to aid us on our journey to Caelin." "He''s going to help us?" Lyn asks while Madelyn looks suspiciously at the castle. "Yes. Araphen and Caelin have enjoyed a sturdy friendship for many years. Once I informed the marquess our plight, he agreed to lend us his strength." "Looks like we''ve got a smooth road ahead!" Sain says celebrating early. "If we could pick up some soldiers, the road to Caelin would be that much safer. I''m truly sorry for hardships you''ve suffered so far." Kent bows his head in apology. "Don''t be silly. You are so capable, Kent." "Kent!?" "Hm? Oh, and so are you, Sain." "Of course, I am!" Lyn looks over to my direction and sees me ignoring their conversation watching the castle. "Percy is¡­" She mumbles out while Madelyn walks over to me. "He won''t try anything inside his own city. He''ll just let someone else do his dirty work." I look towards her. "If he does I''ll-" Athena grabs my arms. "Dad! Let''s go! I want to see a castle!" Her eyes sparkling looking at the castle. "Sure Athena. Let''s go!" ¡­ (Inside the City) The castle is burning, and smoke can be seen coming out of it. I hand Athena over to Madelyn. "Gawain keep an eye out. I don''t have a good feeling about this." A man approaches our group. "You! You''re Lyndis, aren''t you?" "Ah! What do you-". He charges at Lyndis, but I intercept his strike. "Kent, Sain protect the backline! I''ll deal with anyone that approaches our group!" "Lyn step back a bit!" I say blocking another strike. His last strike is parried, and I grab his arm. Flipping him over I stab him. "Keep an eye on each other! Don''t lose each other in the panic!" I yell out. An arrow pierces another assassin near us, killing him instantly. ''Looks like Rath decided to finally act.'' "Why did you help us?" Lyn looks towards the mounted man. "I thought a Sacaean plainswoman was being attacked. I was mistaken." The man wearing a headband says looking towards us. His clothing looking much like a plainsman from Sacae. He hair a dark green. A staple for most Sacaean men. "No, you were right! I am from Sacae. I''m Lyn, the daughter of the Lorca chieftan." "The Lorca? There were survivors?" "Yes, Percival saved us." The Sacaean man looks at me and sees me fighting off a few assassins. "You should leave at once. A blaze has started in the castle and is spreading. Don''t be foolish and waste the life I just saved." "How severe is the fire and is the marquess safe?" "The castle is under attack, and the marquess has been accosted. The man who attacked you was probably one of the marauders. As captain of the castle guard, it''s my duty to rescue the marquess." "I see¡­ All right then, we''ll help you. These brigands are after me. If they''re attacking the castle, it''s because of me. So I must help if I can¡­ And Percy is already fighting them off¡­" She says look at me killing the fifth assassin near the group. "It sounds like you''re involved somehow¡­ Let''s go. I am Rath of the Kutolah. Our tribes may be different, but I will not abandon a woman of the Sacae." -- I rush towards the next assassin but stop my blade at his neck. "Matthew? What are you doing here away from Hector?"This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. He looks at the blade at his neck and I move it away. "Sorry. I thought you were after my friends." "I am here gathering information for Ostia, sir." I nod at that. "Do you need help sir?" He says looking at me and the people behind me. "Sure. I''ll use whatever help I can get. Lyn will need a thief sooner or later¡­" "Let''s go Matthew. I''ll introduce you to the team later!" "Don''t tell them I''m with Ostia!" He says rushing behind me fighting off the assassins. "Go towards the chests over there and grab the material." He nods and rushes off as I return to the battle. I rush towards the final assassin. "Bah. Lyndis and her cadre. When did you arrive? No matter. I shall deal with you." He slashes his dagger throats my neck and he receives a fist to the neck. Breaking it instantly. "Gah! Lord Lundgren¡­" I look over to the group and see them pulling levers all around the city. The leader I just killed seemed to be guarding one as well¡­ I pull it and look towards the sound. A hidden passageway opens up and Lyn walks over to me. She grabs a hold of my arm to stop me from rushing down the passageway. "We should let Rath take over from here. And don''t think you''re not in trouble for running off by yourself again." "I''m not gonna stop¡­" I mumble out. "What was that?" She says tightening her grip on my arm. "Nothing boss!" I say looking at her. She doesn''t release my arm as Rath leads us down the pathway. ¡­ We arrive in the castle and fight off the remaining assassins inside the castle. "Ah, it''s Rath! You''ve done well. What a performance!" An elderly man says. "Sir¡­ If you have praise, it should be given to this group." Rath looks at his feet. "Hm? Who are you?" "My name is Lyndis. I''m pleased you''re well." "Oh¡­ It''s you. You''re Marquess Caelin''s- Leave us, Rath. I would speak with this girl." Rath leaves the room, but the marquess loses his only capable guard in doing so¡­ "Now¡­ Lady Lyndis. Do you know the identity of those responsible for this uprorar." "I believe it to be the work of my granduncle, Lundgren." She says with guilt. "That''s exactly right. Which means my castle has been damaged in your family''s petty inheritance dispute." "When I heard that Lady Madelyn''s daughter was in trouble, I thought to lend my assistance¡­ I find I''ve changed my mind. I withdraw my offer." "Marquess Araphen! You gave me your word, my lord!" "¡­Your name is Kent, is it not? You failed me of one most vital detail!" "What... What do you mean?" "This girl does resemble Lady Madelyn, but¡­ I didn''t expect to see her so tainted with the blood of Sacae." Lyn clearly offended at this and Madelyn fuming in the back shout out "What?!?" "Don''t you feel the marquess would be troubled to meet this¡­ nomadic mongrel?" "You-!" Sain charges forward but is stopped by Kent. "Sain! Hold! My apologies my lord Marquess." "Hm¡­ Your man is poorly disciplined." "Marquess Araphen! Please... If you would grac-" "That''s enough Kent. Drop it." I say looking to the serious knight. "¡­I hear Marquess Caelin is ill and abed. I question whether he will survive to meet this girl. In which case, his brother, Lundgren, will claim his title. And I certain-" Before he finishes the sentence, Madelyn approaches him. "I was correct in not seeing you as a competent man. A cowardly man like you has no right to disparage my daughter." "Madelyn? Yo-you''re still alive? Wa-wait I''ll prov-provide the aid you need!" Taking enough of his garbage rant, I notice Lyn no longer holding my arm. I squeeze her hand and then approach the Marquess. "So the Marquess of Araphen is this lowly of a man¡­ A noble such as yourself doesn''t deserve his position¡­" "Who ar-" A fist strikes out across his cheek. Another following after landing on his stomach. "Percy!" Lyn runs up behind me and grabs me. "That''s enough!" I stop swinging at the Marquess hearing Lyn and feeling her weight behind me. "I am proud of the Sacae blood that runs through my veins. I will NOT accept aid from the one who disparages my heritage." The marquess stunned by the fists and Lyn''s statement stays silent as we exit. ¡­ (Outside the Castle) "That was well done, milady and Percy! The marquess is a lout! Don''t worry about anything. We''re all here for you! Isn''t that so, Kent?" Sain says ecstatic that I could take out his frustrations for him. "I beg your forgiveness." Kent says looking down. "Why are you apologizing, Kent?" Madelyn asks him. "I''ve been so concerned with seeing you two to Caelin. I''ve failed to take your feelings into account." "Is that so? No need to apologize. You put our safety above all. Hold your head up and be proud of your actions." She says looking towards Kent. "Milady Madelyn¡­" -- (Inside the Castle) "Bah! Arrogant child! If she had but shed a single tear, I would have granted her request. We Lycian nobles will never understand those prideful savages." The marquess says not being aware of his surroundings. "....Are those your true feelings towards the nomads of Sacae, milord?" Rath says. "What? Oh, Rath! I didn''t see you there. My comments do not reflect on you. You are my captain. I''m proud of your service." "Of course. As long as we bend our knee to you, you care not where we''re from. But when an equal comes from my lands? What conceit." "Rath! How can you speak to me like that? I have treated you well, have I not? I have paid you well. I have treated you better than your kind deserves!" "You will never understand. My service ends here." -- (Outside the City, almost Sunset) "The marquess of Araphen¡­ He said my grandfather was ill. We must hurry to Caelin¡­" Lyn says looking off in the distance. "As we approach Caelin, Lundgren''s obstacles will be more difficult to overcome. However, I''ve vowed to see you through to the end, milady!" "I''m counting on you, Kent." Lyn says looking towards him. "I''m with you, too!" "Thank you, Sain." They both walk towards the rest of the group. "Wait up Wil!" Sain says riding over to him. "Percy¡­ Thank you for always standing at my side. It''s because of you all that I¡­ I will persevere! They will never break my spirit!" "Naturally. If they did do anything to harm you, I''d ride to hell and back to assure your vengeance." Athena grabs my arms and squeezes them. "I''d do the same for you as well Athena. Don''t worry. You two are very dear to me." I say with a smile trying to appease her. Horse hooves resound over the plain. I turn towards the sound and see Rath traveling towards us. "Rath? What is it? What are you-" Lyn looks to question him. Behind him is Matthew as well. "I overheard the marquess talking to himself. Lyn of the Lorca¡­ Proud daughter of the Sacae¡­ I would join you. I would add my strength to yours¡­" "Welcome to the team!" I say as Sain and Wil try to involve him in their conversation. I turn my attention to Matthew who is trying to avoid Serra as much as possible. "Matthew over here." I call over to him and he approaches. "Lyn this is Matthew. He is a friend of mine from an old job." I say coming up with a cover for him. "He plans on joining us. I can vouch for his skill." "If you''re recommending him to join us, Percy, he must be capable." Lyn says starting to inspect Matthew. "Haha! He isn''t too much of a fighter. He''s much better in the shadows." I say looking at him. Matthew nods at my remark. "So¡­ He''s an assassin or a thief?" Lyn says looking at him suspiciously. "That sounds about right." Noticing her gaze becoming warier possibly because of the term assassin. "Lyn it isn''t wise to avoid using assassin''s and thieves just because of your dislike for them. They''ll be useful in different situations. Please do not limit yourself." She looks at me and nods. "If you say so, Percy¡­ Welcome to the team nonetheless Matthew." I sigh. ''Once she finds out what I used to do I don''t know how she''ll react...''