Late Night Rendezvous
AS dusk settled, Mika and her companions arrived at Islez, a lively village known for its night markets and vibrant festivals. Shinji's childhood friend, Kazuo, hailed from this place. Mika wore a hooded cloak to conceal her Spirit identity. She couldn't hide her excitement. After all, it was her first journey beyond the familiar borders of Luyas.
Two Kriegers members greeted them at the South Gate.
"Welcome to Islez, Lord Shinji," the Kriegers bowed respectfully.
Kriegers, a well-known organisation formed by the three Elders who governed the village, ensured the village's safety from any internal and external threats. Members from the organisation were personally handpicked by the three Elders themselves. Supporting the Kriegers were the Heilers, known for their medical expertise and assistance in dangerous missions such as infiltrating an enemy's territory.
Shinji thanked the Kriegers and entered the village. Mika followed closely behind, keeping her head down to avoid unwanted attention. Her blood ran cold as ice, and her body stiffened. Just when she thought it was okay to look up, her eyes met with the Kriegers' gaze, and instantly, Mika was petrified. Her heart stopped beating momentarily at the surprised—almost recognised—look on their faces.
They're gonna chase me out!
Already mentally and physically prepared to be taken away, Mika stood in utter shock when she received the same respectful bow they had given to Shinji earlier.
"Welcome, Milady. Please rest assured that you are safe while in Islez. Feel free to roam around as you please."
Relief washed over Mika. She nodded back to them with a smile, catching up with Shinji and Kazuo.
"Ya okay?" Kazuo asked, noticing how the Apprentice's face was pinkish red.
"Yeah, I'm fine!" Mika laughed awkwardly.
Looking around, she saw Shinji surrounded by villagers. Elders offered him fruits and good luck charms while children from the orphanage swarmed him with affection. Mika found this surprising; she'd expected Shinji to be less patient with children.
"Oi, can I get some loving here too?" A boisterous laugh filled the air no longer than those words spouted from Kazuo's mouth.
Kazuo, engulfed by a wave of giggling children, dramatically fell to the ground. Mika couldn't help but chuckle.
"Been a while, hasn't it, Shinji?" Kazuo remarked as they caught up.
Shinji nodded. "Not much has changed, I see."
"Actually, a lot has," Kazuo countered. "Let's discuss it with the Elders. The sooner the better."
As they walked, Mika noticed a transparent barrier connecting the rooftops of traditional houses built on stilts. "Force fields?" she inquired.
"Protection," Kazuo explained. "Since the incident in Andania, we've been extra cautious. The Elders even increased patrols. Apparently, a couple of rogue Spirits were caught wandering around. They were... dealt with. By Ralph and his goons."
Shinji flinched at the name but quickly composed himself. He knew he'd likely hear Ralph's name in Islez. It was his hometown, after all. He'd braced himself for this return, to face the past that forced him and his family to flee years ago. He glanced at Mika, hoping she'd overcome her own fear soon.
Minutes later, a high-pitched squeal pierced the air. A petite teenage girl with rosy, curly hair bounced towards them.
"Shinji!" she shrieked, launching herself at him.
Shinji stumbled back, a sigh escaping his lips as he braced himself for another embrace.
Mika watched with awe and curiosity about their relationship. Was she his girlfriend, perhaps? Her curiosity got the best of her, and Mika decided to ask Kazuo about this.
"Who's the girl?"
"Rinda is the best Heiler in Islez," Kazuo explained, tossing a fresh, juicy apple at her. "Eat up, beautiful. It's sweet and delicious."
Mika's stomach grumbled as per cue – she hadn't eaten since breakfast. While listening to Kazuo, she bit the apple and savoured the taste.
"Anyway, she was raised by the village since she was a baby, and has only eyes for Shinji. Hell, she'd even declared wanting to marry him when she was twelve! We all enjoyed teasing them about it, though."
Mika found the story intriguing. Although she wasn't interested in romance, the situation sparked her interest.
Kazuo chuckled as he continued, "Poor girl, Shinji never took her public confession seriously. He loves her way too much as a younger sister."
"Wouldn't it be better if she was being let down gently instead?"
Kazuo shook his head. "She knew. Rinda knew Shinji was never going to reciprocate her feelings the way she wanted him to. I guess it's just a matter of time before she realises that it's time to stop and move on."
Suddenly, a woman's scream shattered the peace. A thief had snatched her bag. Before anyone could react, Rinda skillfully threw three knives, pinning the thief to the ground.
"Nice one, Rinda!" Kazuo cheered.
Kriegers arrived shortly and apprehended the thief.
"The Elders are busy these days," Shinji muttered.
"Let's not keep the old geez — I mean, Elders — waitin'. Ladies, shall we?"
FAR from the lively bustle of Islez, there was an old, abandoned hut cloaked in shadows that served as the hidden base for a rogue faction of Kriegers. These men, ostracised by the Elders for their brutality, harboured a deep resentment towards the village leadership. Their leader, Ralph, a hulking figure, bore a jagged scar across his right cheek – a constant reminder of past grievances.
He sat at the centre of the room, surrounded by his lieutenants, all notorious for their ruthlessness. Ralph wore a dark brown tunic accentuated by a menacing leather shoulder armour adorned with sharp thorns. A dark brown pelt draped over his broad shoulders, and a long sword hung menacingly at his hip. He idly spun a short dagger in his left hand, its glint catching the dim light.
A knock on the weathered door shattered the tense silence. One of the men rose, his burly frame dwarfing the small entrance. He cautiously opened the door, received a sealed letter, and returned to his seat. Ralph took the letter, his expression unreadable as he scanned the contents. A slow, chilling smile spread across his scarred face.
"Looks like our first operation was a successful one, boys," he announced, his voice a low rumble.
A boisterous lieutenant with a shaved head leaned forward. "Excellent news, Ralph! What about Arnold? Should we go and rescue him?"
Ralph chuckled, a sound devoid of warmth. "Rescuing him can wait. Right now, the lamb has walked straight into the lions' den. Inform our dear friend – it's time for the next phase of our plan to commence tonight."
The messenger saluted and swiftly exited the hut.
"I still have doubts about his loyalty, Ralph," a lieutenant with an eyepatch voiced his concerns. "Frankly, all of us are still wary of his sudden offer to join us. What's his true motive? What if he betrays us at the last minute? It's a risky gambit, letting him in on tonight's operation."
"Relax, mate," Ralph replied, his grin widening. "I've known him since we were young pups. The man may be an arrogant womaniser, but when it comes to matters of the heart, even someone like him wouldn't forget a betrayal, especially not one that cost him dearly."
With a flick of his wrist, Ralph launched the dagger in his hand. It flew across the room, embedding itself with deadly precision in the forehead of a young boy pictured in a framed photograph hanging on the wall.
The photo depicted a younger Shinji and Suzumi, both with carefree smiles. To Shinji's right stood a cheerful Kazuo, striking a playful pose.
Dominating the far right of the picture was another man, older than the rest, with messy dark blonde hair tied in a high ponytail. He sported a confident smirk, a jarring contrast to the youthful joy radiating from the others.
"WELCOME to Islez Village, Lord Shinji. We have been expecting your arrivals and are excited to have you here with us once again."
Four figures stood before the Grand Elders' residence, a sprawling structure built from ornately carved wood. One of the three Grand Elders, an elderly man named Shion, emerged to greet them. He wore a loose brown robe that accentuated the countless wrinkles etched on his forehead, and his long, white beard flowed down his chest.
"Thank you for welcoming us, Elder Shion," Shinji responded with a respectful bow. "May I introduce you to Mika, my Chosen Apprentice."
Shion's eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled kindly. "Ah, warmest greetings to you as well, Lady Mika. I am called Shion, the youngest Elder of this village."
"Thank you," Mika replied, returning the smile. "It is nice to meet with you, Elder Shion."
Shion nodded and turned his attention back to Shinji. "My Lord, we received a letter from Lady Suzumi two days before your arrival. We are fully aware of the situation outside and assure you of your safety. As long as you are in our care, our brave and mighty Kriegers will provide you with protection."
"Thank you. You have my gratitude," Shinji acknowledged.
"Now then," Shion continued, gesturing towards a grand staircase leading up, "a humble banquet has been prepared for both of you to enjoy. Please help yourselves up these stairs to the hall."
Shinji hesitated. "We will be staying in the village only for tonight. Nevertheless, we are truly grateful for your kindness and hospitality. Please send my regards and thanks to Elder Leon and Dauz."
"Oh, please do not mention it, Milord," Shion insisted. "The Grand Elders have been loyal supporters to the White Wolf Clan for generations, and that will never change. Perhaps our only regret is that you no longer wish to live here. Nonetheless, know that should you ever choose to return, the villagers will always welcome you with open arms."
"Thank you," Shinji offered a respectful bow once more.
A heavy sigh escaped behind them as Shion led them up the stairs.
"You guys go on ahead," Kazuo interjected dramatically. "I just remembered I had a prior engagement tonight. What a drag."
Rinda's eyes narrowed. "What? You're not coming with us, Kazuo?"
"Nope. Sorry, Rinda. Wish I could join you, but see, there's this gorgeous lady waiting for me at the bar, and well, it's rather rude to keep a lady waiting, wouldn't you agree?"
Rinda's temper flared. "I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU!" she shrieked, her voice carrying enough power to send shivers down even the calmest Elder's spine. "After you BEGGED me to help cook all day – including your beloved 'Onion-Beef Stew' – and now you tell me you have plans?!"
Kazuo nervously chuckled, the sound lacking any genuine amusement. Reaching out with a hand, he awkwardly patted Rinda's head in a gesture that resembled a father trying to calm a young daughter.
"I'm terribly sorry, princess," he soothed. "Tell you what, save me whatever leftovers there are. I'll devour them when I get back. Promise! Anyhow, I need to scoot. Ciao for now!"
With that, Kazuo turned on his heel and disappeared down the stairs, leaving Rinda fuming.
"That insufferable man!"
Shinji snorted at the scene, unable to stifle a smile. "Why do you care so much?" he questioned Rinda. "He's not a child. Let him do whatever he wants with his life."
"That's easy for you to say!" Rinda retorted. "Who do you think cleans up his messes? ME!"
"Then stop allowing him to take advantage of you," Shinji countered, crossing his arms.
In the numerous love letters Rinda had written to him, some of which contained her complaints about Kazuo's womanising ways. Unbeknownst to Rinda, Shinji had lectured Kazuo about his behaviour several times.
"You and Kazuo seem close, even though you don't physically resemble each other," Mika commented, seeking to ease the tension. "Are you perhaps adopted siblings?"
"We're housemates," Rinda explained. "I've lived with him since I was a child. But yeah, you could say we're practically siblings. Although, that man is a terrible older brother! All he ever does is chase after women while I'm stuck doing all the chores around the house, including paying the bills!" Rinda finished with an exaggerated sigh.
Mika noticed a flicker of something in Rinda's eyes besides annoyance – a hint of underlying care. It reminded her of her own relationship with her adopted brother, Guy.
I didn't even get to say goodbye… Mika let out a small sigh. Though he could be infuriating at times, she missed him dearly since he left Luyas for intensive training for his position as the next Commandant.
"He doesn't work?" Mika inquired, surprised.
Rinda scoffed. "The Elders offered him a position in the Kriegers several times, but whenever they came knocking, that goofball would vanish for months on end! He'd reappear eventually, pockets overflowing with mysterious cash, and refuse to explain where it came from no matter how much I pressed him."
Despite the constant complaints, Mika sensed a more profound truth. Rinda clearly cared for Kazuo more than she let on.
"Maybe he's secretly a travelling merchant?" Mika jokingly suggested, trying to lighten the mood.
Rinda gave a humourless chuckle. "Travelling merchant, my foot. More like a trouble magnet with a talent for finding mischief."
Just then, their bickering was interrupted by the arrival of a young Heiler carrying a steaming tray.
"Here you go," the Heiler announced shyly, placing the tray on a nearby table. "Freshly baked bread and a selection of local cheeses for your enjoyment, Elders and guests."
The aroma of warm bread and aged cheese instantly filled the air, causing Mika's stomach to growl loudly. Her cheeks flushed in embarrassment, but Shinji chuckled softly.
"Seems your apprentice is quite hungry," The Heiler remarked to Elder Shion.
The Elder's eyes twinkled with amusement. "It appears so. Please, young Mika, do not hesitate to partake in the feast we have prepared. Consider it a small token of our hospitality."
Mika bowed her head in gratitude. "Thank you, Elder Shion. I truly appreciate your kindness."
With permission granted, Mika practically dove towards the table. Starving from their journey, she devoured the bread and cheese with gusto, savouring the simple yet delicious flavours.
THE homecoming banquet went incredibly well, leaving Shinji and Mika pleasantly full. After finishing their meals, they excused themselves for the night and retreated to their assigned rooms. Rinda returned to her own home after a bone-crushing hug and a kiss on Shinji's cheek, much to his blushing dismay.
"The food was incredible! I feel a little bad for the chefs who had to keep feeding us," Mika admitted with a sheepish smile.
"Don't worry," Shinji replied with a hint of amusement in his voice. "Those chefs live to feed people, especially guests who've travelled far."
He glanced at her from the corner of his eye. "Of course, with your bottomless appetite, they probably loved having you around."
Mika's cheeks flushed a vibrant red. Her hand instinctively flew to her stomach in a self-conscious gesture. "I-I am most certainly not a glutton!"
Shinji stopped walking abruptly. Without meeting her gaze, he spoke in a hushed tone. "Thanks... for not leaving any leftovers, especially the onion stew. That moron can starve for all I care."
Taken aback by his unexpected gratitude, Mika smiled. "The onion stew was delicious, truly. Hard to resist finishing it all. After all, Miss Rinda's a wonderful cook!"
Shinji pushed open the heavy doors, revealing a spacious Combat Training Hall. Polished wooden floors stretched out before them, littered with well-worn dummies. Mika's eyes darted around the room, finally landing on the rows of weapons displayed proudly on the walls.
Shinji strode past her towards the weapons, his gaze drawn to the rows of bamboo swords. He selected one and turned, effortlessly tossing it towards Mika. She managed to catch it, albeit clumsily, a question mark etched on her face.
"Why are we here?" she asked, confused.
Shinji continued surveying the weapons before picking up a sleek, long-leaf sword. "What happened at the river today..." His voice trailed off as he turned to face her. "You hesitated, almost costing both our lives if it weren't for Kazuo's timely intervention. Do you understand the gravity of your actions? Our mission hinges on both of us staying alive."
"Why?" His tone was calm yet firm, his eyes boring into hers.
"Why what?" Mika's voice was barely above a whisper.
"Why did you hesitate, Mika?"
Mika took a deep breath, averting her eyes from his intense gaze. Clenching her fists, she finally spoke in a voice choked with emotion. "It's easy for you to attack someone who attacks us, but not for me. That creature by the river... it was my kin."
A wave of pain washed over her face. "How can you expect me to simply kill it the last time I drew my sword..."
Memories of Andania flooded back, vivid and horrifying. Mika squeezed her eyes shut, trying to push them away. She tightened her fists, knuckles turning white.
"..The last time I drew my sword, I ended up massacring half a town! Do you have any idea what it feels like?" Her voice rose, laced with a raw pain that made Shinji flinch. "To have innocent blood staining your hands? To take the lives of those who had nothing to do with anything?"
Tears welled up in her eyes, threatening to spill over. Her breath came in ragged gasps. "I was branded the 'Knight of Luyas,' but it wasn't a title I earned. My adoptive father forced it upon me. I wasn't allowed to train with the other Knights, for fear I'd kill someone unintentionally."
Mika lifted her eyes to meet Shinji's gaze, a flicker of defiance mixed with the pain. "Dwelling in self-pity is a waste of time," he said, his voice calm and measured.
"Self-pity?!" Mika's voice cracked with indignation. "I—"
"Listen," Shinji interrupted, his tone surprisingly gentle. "The success of this mission rests on our shoulders. I won't let anything or anyone jeopardise it. You need to overcome your guilt about Andania and pull yourself together."
"How can you say that so easily?" Mika whispered, her voice trembling. "Have your hands ever been stained with innocent blood?"
"Forgive me if my perspective is different," Shinji countered, his voice low. "The battlefield doesn't differentiate between good and bad. It's survival, kill or be killed. Your intentions define who you are, Mika."
Mika swallowed hard, his words echoing in her heart. "If you must draw your blade," he continued, "do it to protect yourself and others. Taking a life is wrong, but failing to protect those you care about is a heavier burden to bear. The guilt, the grief – they're valid, but dwelling on them will only consume you. You can choose to learn from Andania, to never repeat those mistakes. If escape is an option, take it. If you're cornered, fight back. Fight to protect the ones you hold dear, and most importantly, Mika, fight for your own survival."
His voice softened further. "Now, let's see what you're truly capable of."
Before Mika could fully process his words, Shinji lunged at her with surprising speed. Instinctively, she raised the bamboo sword to block his attack. The bamboo swords met with a sharp crack, sending vibrations up her arm.
"Not good enough!" Shinji barked, his voice laced with a hint of encouragement. "Put more force behind it! Pretend I'm your enemy, someone who wants you DEAD!"
He launched into a relentless assault, a flurry of strikes that forced Mika back on her heels. She parried his blows as best she could, the initial clumsiness giving way to a focused defence. Yet, Shinji, with his years of experience, quickly manoeuvred around her blocks, landing a few glancing blows on her arms.
The wooden floor creaked under their feet as they danced around the training hall until he landed a hit on her wrists, causing her to drop the bamboo sword. Sweat beaded on Mika's forehead, her breath coming out in ragged pants. Fear threatened to overwhelm her again, but Shinji echoed in her mind: Fight for your life, Mika.
Shinji's eyes locked on Mika like prey. Mika felt cold sweats dripping down her spine when Shinji adjusted a stance — a stance for a deadly, piercing thrust. His deadly blade aimed directly at her head. Despite choosing to use a gun as his primary weapon, Mika knew Shinji was a Master in swordsmanship. Even Lady Suzumi had mentioned that he'd been taught to train swordsmanship at a young age — younger than when she'd been a young Trainee in the Knight's Academy.
A second passed by, and Shinji thrust forward. Mika watched unblinkingly as the edge of his blade came at her in a swift motion. Mika pulled out her twin blades just in time to clash with his sword at the last possible fraction of a second. Shinji refused to budge and pushed his weight further as he forced his way into breaking her defence.
Suddenly, a reckless desperation fueled her movements. She saw an opening and lunged, aiming a surprise attack at Shinji's side. He barely managed to deflect the blow, his eyes widening in surprise.
Seizing the opportunity, Mika channelled all her remaining strength into a powerful kick aimed at his stomach. The impact connected with a satisfying thud, sending Shinji stumbling back with a gasp.
For a moment, a stunned silence filled the air. Mika stared at him, her chest heaving, unsure what to expect. Then, a grin slowly spread across Shinji's face.
"Well done!" he chuckled, wiping sweat from his brow. "I never expected you to resort to a cheap trick like that."
Despite his playful words, a glint of respect shone in his eyes. Mika, however, couldn't help but feel a surge of satisfaction. Maybe she wasn't as helpless as she thought.
Shinji extended a hand to help her up. "Alright, I think that's enough for tonight. How are you feeling? Less nervous, perhaps?"
Mika brushed herself off, a newfound determination burning in her eyes. "Yeah, I guess."
"Good," Shinji said, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "Remember, this is just the beginning. We'll continue this training throughout our journey. You have the potential to be a formidable warrior, Mika. Don't let your past define you."
They exited the Training Hall, unaware of the eyes that had been watching them from the rooftops earlier.
A casual stroll defined Kazuo's gait. His hands were tucked into his jacket pockets, practised ease belying the cold sweat prickling his palms. He whistled a soft tune, the melody failing to mask the disquiet churning in his gut, a storm of emotions threatening to burst forth.
Kazuo passed a group of Kriegers on their nightly patrol. Their greetings were curt, their expressions unreadable. Kazuo responded in kind, his voice a touch too loud, a forced cheer that echoed hollowly in the tense silence.
Still, a sliver of unease gnawed at him. He was confident, or at least he forced himself to be, that the young Lord, with senses as sharp as any White Wolf, hadn't detected his presence earlier. After all, nothing truly escaped the watchful gaze of the Heir.
With a heavy sigh, Kazuo finally reached his doorstep.
"Home, sweet home," he muttered, pushing the door open with a gentle touch.
A voice, cold as winter wind, sliced through the welcoming darkness. "Welcome back."
He whirled around, startled. In the dim light, he saw Rinda, a vision of fury in a pink floral nightdress. Her long, curly hair cascaded down her shoulders, framing the fierce set of her jaw and arms crossed high across her chest. Her right foot tapped impatiently against the floorboards.
She would have blasted him through the wall if a glare could kill.
"R-Rinda! What's wrong, love? Why are you still awake so late?" he stammered, a touch of fear creeping into his voice.
"Don't play dumb with me, Kazuo!" she snapped. "We had a deal – no more late-night rendezvous! Look at the time – it's past two in the morning!"
Kazuo winced, flinching away from her sharp tone. Rinda may look cute, but her fiery temper was legendary, rivalled only by Lady Suzumi's icy wrath. He held up his hands placatingly.
"Woah, woah! Now, darling Rinda, there's no need to get your feathers ruffled," he soothed, a hint of teasing in his voice despite the situation. "I'm truly touched you waited up for me!"
Rinda snorted, rolling her eyes. "Don't be a moron. I was waiting to have a word with you about ditching us earlier. And what's with the new girl with Shinji? Is she his Chosen Apprentice? How come I've never seen her before, not even in the old portraits?"
Kazuo stood up, dusting himself off with a sigh. A bittersweet smile played on his lips, but his eyes held a faint glimmer of sadness.
"It's getting late, Rinda. You should get some sleep."
"I am tired," she conceded. "Oh, and before you forget, the Elders want to see you in the morning before Shinji leaves. They didn't say why, though."
"Alright, thanks for the heads-up. Oh and Rinda?" He paused for a moment.
"What?" she replied, turning towards him with a raised eyebrow.
"Thank you... for waiting up for me."
A faint blush crept up Rinda's cheeks, but she quickly covered it with a smirk.
"Whatever, dumbass," she mumbled, turning away to head towards her room.