Fire Emblem

Nina and Liliana walk side by side down long path that seemed to be endless. They had left the inn they were staying in over five or six hours ago. Liliana looked up at Nina and said “ when do you think we will get to the next town Nina.” Nina looks at Liliana I don’t know it could take all day.” Liliana hung her head low and then she looked up and saw something that looked like a house in the distance. Liliana yelled “ look Nina a house, that means we must be getting close right. Well come on!” Liliana ran off toward the house. Nina yelled after her “ Liliana wait don’t go off on your own! Wait for me!”

Nina ran off after Liliana the hot sun was beating down on her as she ran. Liliana then looked around as she got close to the house. It was odd if this house was the only one out there it should have been a farm house, but there were no crops or anything. Nina was catching up to Liliana. Nina then noticed that there were no crops at this house, but no houses were near by. This house should have been a farm or else how would the people living here survive. Liliana got close to the house and then she looked at it, she turned around to wave for Nina to hurry up. Liliana then heard the door of the house open and she turned to see about four men rush out of the house. One of them grabbed Liliana and Nina saw it she became angry and rushed toward the men in a fit of rage.

As Nina got closer she took the tome that was tied to her waist and she began to read the words. Dark energy started to swirl around her she then stopped about fifty feet from where the men who had Liliana were. Nina’s feet slid on the dirt and gravel, the dark energy around her started to take form of a ball of dark magic. Nina then pointed to the man on the end and the ball flew threw the air and slammed into the man sending him rolling on the ground. Nina knew that wouldn’t be enough to finish him, but he wouldn’t get up for a little while so this gave Nina just enough time to bluff her way out of a fight. Nina yelled “ you see your friend over there he is dead and If you don’t let go of the girl I’ll kill you all as well!”

The men looked at each other and laughed the one who was holding Liliana said “ what is stopping us from just killing her before you can shoot off your next spell.” Nina looked down at the ground and said to herself “ alright it looks like I have no choice.” Nina held her hand out and said “ I call upon the power of the spirit world..” the men looked at each other and one said “ what is she doing, I’ve never seen magic like this before.” Nina then started to finish her spell and she said “the Celestial summoner, Nina calls upon her knight Gabriel.” the dark energy around Nina shot into the sky and then it suddenly came back down. The dark energy the started to take a form it was taking the form of a man. The man’s form was somewhat like a spirit for a little while and then he becomes solid and his hair turns form black to a crimson red., his eyes changed to a light blue, he was covered in light armor and then a sword appeared in his hand. The man looked at Nina

Nina smiled and said “thank you for answering my call Gabriel.” Gabriel looked at Nina and said “ it was my pleasure my mistress, now what can I do for you.” Nina blushed a little like she always did when Gabriel called her Mistress. She then said “ I want you to face those men, I just need you to get the one who has Liliana so I can save her.” Gabriel nodded and charged the man holding Liliana Gabriel stabbed the man in the arm causing him to release Liliana. Liliana then ran toward Nina and Nina hugged Liliana and said “ don’t run off anymore, you could have been killed.”

Liliana nodded and said “ now I want my revenge.” she turned toward the men and she took out her tome, Gabriel stepped in front of Nina and Liliana he was ready to guard them as they prepared their spells. Nina was surrounded by dark energy, while Liliana was surrounded by fire energy. Nina created a ball of dark magical energy and Liliana created a spiral of fire. The spiral of fire raised from the ground and burned the man‘s clothing and skin. Liliana then pointed at a different man an the ball of dark energy hit him and sent him flying back like the first man she hit. Gabriel then looked at the man who was the one who captured Liliana. Liliana stepped in front of Gabriel and made a motion with her hand and the man ran off afraid for his life. As the man ran Liliana created another spiral of fire and it hit the man burring his clothing.

Nina than told Gabriel to chase the man down and Gabriel did. Nina and Liliana than start walking down the path again. They both smiled to each other after a job well done, after about two hours of walking Nina and Liliana find themselves in Grall. Liliana looked at Nina and said “finally a town, so what do we do first.” Nina said “ lets find a place to stay and then get ourselves some food…

Kayl sat on the ground, leaning against a building while his twin sister danced, attracting the attention of several passerby, especially tired ones whom looked quite rejuvenated after a moment of watching, that dropped shiny coins into a bag that lay near her. He stiffened as a man got too close to her and relaxed as he moved away, barely noticing the man snatch up the bag. Kaylee squeaked but continued dancing while Kayl leaped to his feet, cloak swishing behind him as he stepped into the shadows, chasing after the man. His cloth shoes were silent on the dirt and rocks, his practiced stalking not causing a stir in the dust. Finally he saw his opportunity: The man entered an alleyway. Kayl followed silently and caught up with him, still in the shadows, before he slid behind him, drawing his dagger and placing it harshly to the man's throat, arm grabbing the arm of his shirt. He whispered for him to drop the bag and the man did so before he was released, after a quick slice on his shoulder of course. Kayl swiped the bag into his hand and returned to his twin, dropping the bag before her again as he passed on his way to his spot against the wall.

Kaylee watched her brother go after the man with the knowledge that he wouldn't kill the thief, merely teach him a small lesson. When Kayl returned, she breathed a sigh of relief and began dancing extravagantly, more coins finding their way to her 'tip bag'. About ten minutes later her bag was full and she stopped dancing, her brother stepping up and hefting the heavy bag for her. They moved to the shops, buying a loaf of bread and some water. They split the loaf and drank the water, Kaylee getting more because of her thirsty work.

Soren sat in the Griel Mercenaries command tent, spell book in hand, pretending to read. In truth he was thinking about the current state of the world and the best course of action for their mercenary group. If Queen Elincia requested their support then Soren believed it would be best to side with her and whatever side she decided to support. That way there was no discernible way the Griel Mercenaries could lose from a purely safety and profit point of view. Then again this war was also senseless with each country throwing their arms around without knowing who the true enemy of either country was. This all started with an assassination and Daein blaming Begnion. Now the entire continent was engulfed in the flames of war once again. Just like five years ago. Soren couldn't help but think this was all apart of someone's plan. The nations had been easily manipulated into war time and again. Why would this time be any different. But to what end this time?

The tactician sighed and threw his book on the table. His eyes drifted towards the tent roof as if looking for something that wasn't there. What would you do Ike? he wondered.

"To difficult a read for you Soren?" a familiar female voice broke into his thoughts. Soren looked down to find Mist coming through the tent flaps. "Something you need Mist?" he asked stoically.

"I was just coming to see how you were doing. Also to tell you that dinner is ready," the girl explained. "You know, you should eat more. You barely eat more than once a day. Your going to get sick like that," she said with a teasing scowl on her face. Soren just returned to his thoughts. Mist expression softened as she watched him. "Thinking about Ike again?" she asked.

"I must have gotten easier to read," Soren said dully, his eyes becoming fixed on the young girl again.

"Nope, Ike and I have always been able to read you like a book," Mist replied with a small smile.

"I wonder if he'll ever come back. It was irresponsible for him to take off like that without telling anyone. Didn't he even think about those he left behind?" Soren complained.

"I'm sure brother had his reasons, Soren," Mist said defensively.

"I hope they were worth it. We really need him now," Soren said. He sighed and picked up his book again. "I'll be out in a minute," he offered. Mist nodded, taking the cue to drop the conversation and turned to leave the tent. "We'll be waiting for you," she said, then let the flap close and proceeded from the tent.

Kaylee finished eating and drinking and went back to her spot in the square, an empty coin bag in front of her now, while the full one sat next to Kayl behind her. Kayl watched for a few moments, tensing only when a girl began speaking to Kaylee.

"Thank you." Kaylee smiled at the girl as she danced.
"A Dancer is meant to relieve people of their exhaustion. That's why we are so valuable on the battle field. It's a little embarrassing to be protected so since I can't fight though, and yes. I've been dancing for as long as I can remember. What about you? I think I recognize you as one of the newer recruits of the Mercenaries, no?" She twirled, dress floating around her, but not high enough to flash anyone.

The clinking of coins distracted her for a moment as she turned her attention to a man that had dropped a hefty sum into her bag. She danced facing him, eyes half closed with concentration, and the exhausted man suddenly seemed extremely awake and aware. He nodded his thanks and Kaylee turned back to the girl with a smile, eyes open as much as originally once again.

"I'm Kaylee, and that's my brother-" She was cut off as Kayl spoke.

"She has no need of my name, Kaylee. " Kayl looked up at them with dark eyes, "My instrument is not one of music or long as your spear, but just as deadly," he rose and turned sideways, pulling his cloak to the side for a moment so Elliane could see his Killing Edges on his back and the daggers at his waist clearly for a second before the cloak fell back in place.

"Kayl," Kaylee finished, casting a glance in her twin's direction and then at the crowd, which had taken a step back.
"You have seen that magic happen as many times as you've seen an experienced dancer, but that man wanted a more... Complete escape from his exhaustion, so it takes a little concentration. Normally our dancing magic is only like that of a Priest or a Cleric, but they do not remove exhaustion, just patch up our wounds."

"Kaylee," Kayl snapped, "we should be getting back to camp to share our earnings."

Kaylee flinched as Kayl snapped at her but nodded, doing one last twirl before she stopped. Kayl rose, a pouch of money in the crook of one arm while he picked up the other, placing it on top of the first while he took Kaylee's hand and began pulling her away.

"Kayl! I'm not a little kid!" Kaylee complained, grabbing a few coins and tossing them to the girl.

"But you can't fight!" Kayl snapped back.

Soren sighed and finally put his book down. Even he knew that over thinking things never helped a situation. He would wait until word was heard from Elincia before making his move. It was the best course of action. There was no point wondering what Ike would have done because Ike wasn't there, and far as Soren knew his friends wasn't coming back anytime soon; if he came back at all. He rose from his chair and pushed open the tent flap, looking out at the cluster of tents that made up their came. The mage turned to the left and headed towards where they had set up the mess tables. He came to a large clearing of tables and the smell of food drifted across the camp toward Soren. Even he had to admit he loved Mist's cooking.

"Soren!" a familiar voice called. It was Gatrie waving a big armored hand at him. He was sitting in the middle section of the tables with Mist, Rolf, Titania, Boyd, and Shinon. Soren gave an inward groan as he made his way over to the group. He would rather eat alone, but knew he wouldn't hear the end of it from Mist if he did. It wasn't that he was anti-social....well ok maybe a bit, but mostly he just wasn't good with people and vice versus. "I already made you a plate," Mist told him, pointing to a spot next to her. He nodded and sat down to join them. He was sure of one thing at the moment. This was going to be a long meal.

Elliane would watch as the brother and sister conflicted - wandering slightly how Kayl knew she used a spear.... He must've seen her training, or somewhat. She became openly more...aware of him, as he revealed his Killing Edges - The leathal weapons that could hack flesh and evicerate foes with all but little dicing and chopping movements. The weapon was feared - well know, even. She would take note not to get on this man's bad side.

The twins began to pack up and leave, when Kayl almost agressively began to pull Kaylee away. She wished she could've said something, but with his weaponry, and being related, there wasn't much she could do. She felt sorry for Kaylee, for having such a strict guardian, but she supposed she could blame Kayl. Boyd had watched over her untill Titania had told him to lighten up. She knew the feeling of a large, muscular man following her, and as soon as someone spoke to her, the green haired giant would begin to crack his knuckles.

She would begin to head back towards the Mercenary camp. No doubt Mist would have a fit if she missed dinner. And her mother would fuss at her for staying out too long without saying anything. She supposed it was just another something of being a young woman. Her pace started to gain quickly, as she wanted to get back to camp quickly. Mist's food could make anyone's mouth water with anticipation. It wasn't long before her legs carried her back to camp. Sure enough, once she entered it's bounds, she began to smell the aroma of delicious food. It made her hurry up as she would find a plate sitting out, and a spot open for her right beside her Mother. She would place a hand on Titania's shoulder as she sat down, giving her mother a one armed hug. "I'm back." She said lightly.
"Oh, good!" Her mother anounced in her typical tone. "I was wondering when you'd get back. Anything interesting around town?" Titania asked, looking over at her adopted daughter.
"Not really, the shops didn't have anything interesting for sale, and the stores were ill managed anyway." She said, shrugging her shoulders.

The meal continued, in relitive quiet, the clinging of forks against plates filling the air, along with the minor chitter of the people around her. Swallowing the bite of food that currently occupied her mouth, Elliane looked over at Soren. She offered a smile in his direction, knowing that it wouldn't make much difference. "So, Mister Soren." She said, causally, but politely. "Have you decided what our...'plan' is going to be?" She asked, earning the gaze of a few others at the table, before waiting for the answer.

The twins arrived back at camp and went to their tent, where they left their earnings in a small chest in a corner and then went to dinner. They sat down at the table, Kayl of course choosing the seating a little farther away from the others. Like normal they got the scraps that remained of Mist's delicious cooking, but didn't complain. Kayl wolfed his down before casting glances at Kaylee's food, which she ate very slowly and tentatively. Kaylee stared into space, barely noticing when Kayl stole some of her food and wolfed it down as well. He wasn't as well-mannered as Kaylee, and certainly wasn't as obedient. When Kaylee finally finished, Kayl got up, pulling her to her feet with him. He pulled her quickly toward a secluded area not far from camp and began training, slicing and dicing a tree with one of his Killing Edges while Kaylee danced, warding away exhaustion.

At an overlook at Grall...
Captain Corsov, of the Begnion Army, stood overlooking the small border town of Grall. He removed his helm from his head, and turned back to face his platoon, roughly 50 soldiers. He spoke loudly to him. "Alright! You heard the General's orders! He want's this city as a lookout for the Crimean Army, should they choose to side with Daein! If you see any of Daein's soldiers, you are free to engage them! Check the town and it's perimeter! Anyone whom will not submit should be captured, so they can be questioned. If they refuse to come peacfully... kill them!" The red armored captain replaced his helm, and began their decent into Grall, a sole banner carrier blowing a horn as he lead the march. From a distance, they could be seen as a small wave rushing down into the town.

Yet once there, they found little resistance. In fact, only a few members of the town militia were willing to fight, and were quickly captured anyhow. With no casualties, the soldiers cheered as they had succeeded on their mission. They proceeded to check the surrounding areas of the town. It didn't take them long before they ran back to the town, after spotting the Greil Mercenaries' camp.

"Sir, there appears to be a camp on the outskirts of town. I'm not sure what faction they are, but they are very well armed. What should we do?" A soldier inquired.
"Treat them the way we did the town: If anyone wants to fight, let them. If they don't surrender then see if you capture them. But if all else fails, kill them. We can't take any chances. They might be anyone." Corsov responded.
"Yessir. I'll tell the rest of the men to be ready for combat." the soldier replied, giving a salute before walking off.

It wasn't long before the Begnion Soldiers, clad in red armor, approached the Mercenary camp, weapons ready to fight. The Begnion flag flew with the twenty man force, and would approach enter the bounds of the camp, looking for it's residents...

Kaylee stopped dancing, looking at Kayl pointedly as if telling him to stop. Kayl sighed and nodded, sheathing his sword and walking with his twin back into camp... Just in time for them to be surrounded. Kaylee squeaked, tensing, and glanced at her brother, seeing if she should start dancing or not.

Kayl frowned, drawing one of his daggers, "Who are you? Why are you here? And why shouldn't I annihilate you?"

The twins stood back-to-back, her eyes wide, his eyes narrowed.

"Guys! We've got company! Begnion soldiers incoming on the western boarder of the camp!" a voice called out. Soren jumped up from the table to see Marcia running from between the tents. "They look like they mean business," she said coming to a stop. Soren nodded and looked at the rest of the group.

"Titania, Elliane, Gatrie, Boyd, and Shinon with me. Marcia, you warn the rest of the camp and get those that can't fight to safety. I'll go and see if we can't parley with our visitors. What are their numbers Marcia?" Soren asked, looking towards the Pegasus Knight.

"About twenty, maybe more," she responded.

"Hmm, I expected more. The main group must be further west. We'll fight if we have to, but I hope it doesn't come to that. I don't want us fighting Begnion without anyone behind us," Soren said and motioned for the others to follow. "I'm counting on you on your end Marcia. Take a few others with you as well as guardians," Soren called back.

"Will do!" Marcia responded and headed in the opposite direction. Soren proceeded along the tents until he reached the clearing where the Begnion troops had entered. It seemed they were already in a quarrel with the twins. "Halt! My name is Soren, I represent the Griel Mercenaries along with this girl Mist and the knight here Titania," he called, gesturing to each girl as he named them. "State your business!"

A man stepped forward, apperently ranked above the others. He carried a large spear, and bore a rather daunting suit of armor. He stepped forward from the crowd, the twins continuing to be encircled. "I am First Seargent Cantan, of the Begnion Army! We ask you to surrender yourselves! Leave your weapons on the ground, and come with us Mercenaries." He barked, as if he was the top dog. "Because you're coming with us, or you're getting speared!" He said, grinning as to simply rattle the mercenaries' cages. He would see what the company would say, the cocky smirk plastered across his lightly bearded face.
---

Elliane frowned as the man stated his desires, and she tensed up. She hadn't been back to her tent to arm herself anyway. She certainly wasn't expecting to find the Begnion Army in their camp. She didn't know how to react herself, knowing her youthful attitude wouldn't help the situation, via mocking this man. Usually, her mother was quite adept at getting out of situations like this... while her father usually simply antagonized them. She turned hopefully to the three that stand in front of the rest of their sellsword band, representing them. She thought that these new soldiers to Begnion wouldn't have heard of the Greil Mercenaries. Sanaki would've not mentioned them to anyone in recent military meetings, just in case that they did end up fighting the Goddess slayers, and cripple her own morale. Though since the loss of their figurehead, Ike, they had lost a lot of noteriety.

Elliane, using the discipline she had developed growing up under Titania to hold her tongue, and clench her fists.

Nina and Liliana fled from the city of Grall, Nina had seen the soldiers heading toward the town and she knew the best way for Liliana and her to be safe was to flee. But Nina felt in her heart that she could have and should have helped. As they fled they came across a camp, but Nina didn’t know who the people in this camp were so she kept moving on with Liliana. As they walked Liliana asked “Nina, are we really going to leave those people to fend for themselves? I don’t think it’s right we have to go back to the city and help.” Nina looked at Liliana and her heart sank, Nina turned around and looked toward the camp and she could just barely see the city. Nina then heard the soldiers coming toward the camp.

Nina looked at Liliana and said “ no we aren’t going to leave these people to fend for themselves. But we aren‘t going to do anything unnecessary either ” Liliana nodded and her and Nina snuck into the camp, Nina was plotting to us this camp to hide her and Liliana until the people of the camp made their move and if they fought Nina would help and if they surrendered Nina would respect their wish and move on. Liliana chuckled a little, because she was planning on fighting even if her sister didn’t want to. Liliana thought to herself “ no one would want to be under the govern of people like this, if they wont fight then I will just fight for them.”

"We don't want a fight with Begnion anymore than you do," Soren told the First Sergeant. I need to defuse this fast if I can. However with the way he's looking at us I think he's hoping for a fight. It might be unavoidable, Soren reasoned. "What do you have planned if we do come with you? I want to know that first before deciding anything," the tactician requested, looking over the rest of the soldiers. There were a few seasoned fighters from in the ranks, but most looked uneasy. They had seen plenty of combat and didn't look eager to engage in another battle so soon. However, if they had too Soren was sure they could win this battle rather easily. The consequences of that victory though were astronomical. If they did end up in battle they would be forced to side with Daein in this conflict. Soren didn't like the prospect of being forced to side with either country. It would ruin any capability of negotiation and the Greil Mercenaries would lose out in the end.

Kayl's eyes narrowed even more so as the man whom called himself a Sergeant told him to leave his weapons on the ground.

"I dunno about everyone else here, but Kaylee and I aren't coming with you," his voice was extremely annoyed and had an edge of hostility, especially as soldiers began circling around him and Kaylee.

As they got closer, Kayl slipped his dagger back into his belt and reached back, drawing a Killing Edge. Kaylee whimpered and looked around, terrified, knowing all too well what was going on and not liking it at all, she glanced between the soldiers at Soren.

"S-Soren!" Kaylee whimpered, tears welling in her wide brown eyes.

The soldiers looked amongst each other, before the first Seargent spoke out again. "That is for the Captain to decide! If you don't come with us, then we've orders to lance you right here!" He said cockily, his tone again reaching out as if he could stand up to the Goddess herself. He fingered his rather tall lance eagerly, looking over the group. The soldiers behind him also readied their weapons....

Suddenly, one of the guards saw Kayl draw his weapon - the fierce Killing Edge. The men almost immediately pushed back, and readied their spears and swords in his direction. "They're getting ready to attack! E-everyone! Get ready!" Those soldiers whoma were not ready with their weaponry soon were, and the spread out from the group of mercenaries. It seemed that Soren's words had gone completely unheard from the man, and he was too eager for battle to listen to reasoning.
----

Elliane frowned as she looked to the soldiers spreading out to get in formations, and then down to her weaponless hands. She looked around, but found nothing she could use to defend herself. She took a few steps back, behind Titania, and waited for one of the soldiers to go down, perhaps...then she could make use of his weapon.... She frowed as she saw the mercenary troop as a whole getting ready for battle. She wished that these men would've at least had the reason to stop and think for a second! She looked to Soren, wondering what his response would be...

Nina saw the soldiers start to surround the camp. She had no idea what had forced the soldiers to make the first move. Nina looked back hoping to see Liliana standing behind her. But what she saw was her own shadow and nothing more. Nina started to breath deeply she was panicking. She was worried about what her little sister would do. Nina let out a deep sigh, her heart beat started to slow down. She than turned to look at where the main group of this camps members where. She knew Liliana had to be there, Nina ran toward that direction and when she came to a stop. She found herself standing next to a girl with red hair and no weapon. Nina turned to the girl and said “ excuse me, I know this is weird to ask at a time like this, but have you seen a young girl come past here?” Nina had an expression of worry on her face while talking to the girl. She didn’t know anything about the people of this camp. For all she knew this girl could be concealing a knife and ready to kill her. But Nina was more concerned about finding Liliana than about knowing if this girl was a killer.

Nina than heard something that made her heart almost stop for a second. She heard Liliana’s voice and it said “ Nina, what are you doing?” Nina turned around to see Liliana holding her Elfire tome. Liliana was smiling and she said “why aren’t you ready to fight yet? If you don’t hurry I will beat all the soldiers before you get a chance to cast your first spell..” Liliana was stopped by the Nina’s warm embrace and the sound of her weeping. Nina said to her “ I thought I told you don’t go running off again. I thought you might have been kidnapped or killed. You idiot, why do you always scare me like this.” Liliana started to cry with Nina and she said “ I’m sorry, I was just ready to fight. You were taking to long.” Nina whispered in Liliana’s ear and she said “ the next time you do this again I promise you I wont go easy on your punishment.” Liliana looked at Nina with a surprised look on her face. Nina had a smile on her face as if nothing had ever happened. Nina than turned back to the red headed girl and said “ I’m sorry for that little mess, but me and my sister would like to help you group if you will have us.” Nina smiled at the girl and brought Liliana over who smiled at the girl as well.

"It would seem our hand has been forced Soren," Titania commented as the soldiers readied their lances. "Yep, there ain't no reasonin with these bumpkin heads. Got all riled up and all they want ta do is fight," another voice said. Approaching from the right a fully armored Nephenee and Brom joined the group.

"I guess we've go no choice. Their decision was made before they approached our came. Let's show them who they're dealing with. Griel Mercenaries, prepare for battle!" Soren called to all that could hear. He removed a green covered spell tome from his robes and the pages flew open. A swirling vortex of wind surrounded the tactician and then shot out in a spinning whirlwind at the soldiers, dispersing their ranks and breaking their formation. Titania hefted her axe from its sheath and together with Boyd they charged the soldiers, dancing between blades and lances alike leaving a trail of chaos and blood in their wake. Gatrie took a step in front of Soren and stood like a human wall against oncoming soldiers, parrying lances and sending attackers flying with a sweep of his own. Nephenee charged in from the side with Brom and smashed into their rank, a flurry of lance strikes and axe sweeps setting the soldiers off balance.

Kaylee squeaked audibly at Soren's call, and she immediately began dancing as Kayl began slashing. She weaved her ducks under spears and jumps from swords into her dance, only pausing as a sword caught her arm. A squeak as the man who injured her drew his last breath before he died, courtesy of Kayl. Kayl lashed out at a soldier with his Killing Edge, precision and practice working to guide his sword to a gap in the armor his target wore. He ducked under a lance and lashed out at his attacker. Seeing an opening, Kaylee rolled forward gracefully, sliding out of the fight and back toward Soren and Gatrie, where her dance was more influential upon her allies since she didn't have to worry about dodging various means of death. She shut her eyes completely as she retreated behind Soren and Gatrie, concentrating even more so on the abilities of her dance.

Elliane gasped as the men would advance on her company, though her body acted on it's on. She took a half crouch and held an arm out in front of her as if she weilded a shield, and kept an eye on her surroundings. She watched as all around her her allies were able to expertly exterminate the soldiers, watching as they dropped to the ground, smashing to the floor, their armor clanking and clattering. As a soldier was launched by her father's axe, landed but six or seven feet from her. She moved over to him, trying not to focus on his huge gaping wound that now bled profusely. Her father cleaved straight through the man's steel armor. She knew he was stronger than most men dreamt of becoming. A true Reaver he was. She digressed, bending down to take up the man's iron lance. It was different than her own weapon, but it would do just fine. She rushed in to join the fray. Before she ran off, she looked to the twin magic casters that had encroached her. "Please! We'd love your aid!" She would say, giving them a thumbs up as she ran off, her light armor clanking slightly.

It didn't take long for a Begnion soldier to notice the armed girl. He lowered his lance and began to move towards her. She too, got in her ready stance again, her eyes locking with the man's as they slowly started to circle each other. The red-armored soldier made the first move, jarring his lance in her direction. She brought her own lance down to block the man's the parry sending his weapon's tip down into the dirt. She spun, and brought her own weapon into the man's chest, her iron weapon sparing him through his steel armor. Though she didn't get full penetration, she jabbed him good. She jerked her lance from of the man, and backed up, retaking her ready stance. The man gripped his new abdomen piercing, and groaned, yanking his weapon from the ground. Watching blood pour down her foe's body was....something. She couldn't tell what it was. She fought her nurturing instincts to try and stop the fight.

The man yelled something along the lines of 'you're going to get it now'. She didn't really hear him. Her eyes were intertwined with his, too focused on this one man. She thrust her lance forward, trying to jar the man. He dodged; but the weapon grazed his armor, scratching it. He took an in-step, and slammed his shoulder into Elly. She was thrown off balance, and began to stumble back. She was wide open, struggling to regain her footing. She watched, in almost slow motion as the man started to thrust his lance at her. Her heart beat quickly sweat dripped from her forehead. It was obvious that her body was not used to real battle. She could only sit back and watch.... Suddenly, a large, blue wall collided with the soldier, slamming into the man and knocking him to the ground like a child. She smiled at Gatrie as he raised his lance high, and jammed it into the downed soldier. She sighed, watching Gatrie turn towards her. She dropped her ready, for just a second. But the knight in front of her yelled. "Watch out, Elly!!"

The young soldier turned on her heels just in time to catch a sword wielding soldier's weapon in her side, the slim blade sinking deep into her leather armored abdomen. She felt the blade hack past the armor and rend her flesh. She stumbled back, and got away from the fast sword wielder. The myrmidon whipped the blade around his body with alarming speed. Elly frowned as she took a defensive stance, as the swordsman approached her. He swung his blade skillfully at her, the iron lance's shaft meeting the sword each time, trying to keep the edge away from her. But she was becoming tired. Finally, after parrying one of his attacks, she thrust her weapon forward, still horizontally, locking under the man's raised arms. She shoved him down, pressing her entire weight under the shove. The man fell backwards on his rear, before Elly brought her lance around in a wheeling motion, the weapon smashing hard against the swordsman's face. She was sure she knocked him out cold.

She looked around her, aming sure there was no immediate threat, before she used her sleeve to wipe her brow. She panted lightly as she retook her stance, just a few soldiers left. The Greil Mercenaries tended to make mince meat from their foes. She was about to go help Boyd with his foe, when she felt the ground moving underneath her feet. She turned sharply, to see a large, gargantuan man makig his way towards her, encased in red steel armor. A General. He held in his hands a large blade cleaver. She grimaced at the thought of being hit by such a weapon. His pace rose as she realized that he was, in fact, going for her. She began to stumble back, her body trembling lightly. The man looked to have a little more armor that Gatrie. Continuing to back up, she jabbed his lance in his direction. The iron weapon skidded hard off the heavy plate, not making an signs of being able to puncture the armor. Again she tried, the pike hitting the general's armor hard...and causing the shaft of the weapon to crack. She gasped as she withdrew her weapon as he took a large, leaping step towards the girl, bringing the almost two-handed sword down with one hand. Instinctively, the girl brought her lance horizontal, trying to block the attack...a large mistake. The general's large weapon combined with the force of his attack made quick work of her iron weapon. The cleaver like blade smashed hard, and hacked through the wooden handle, and sunk deep into the muscle between her shoulder and neck, just barely missing her pauldron. The girl let out a cry of pain, and felt the new blood draining from her left side. She next felt an iron fist to her right cheek, knocking her down.

She writhed on the ground, her right arm racing from her abdomen wound to her new cleaving wound. She then looked back up to the general, whom seemed to be scoffing. He pulled his arm back, and was ready to thrust the weapon into the downed girl. But she wasn't going to let herself be killed here. Her right leg shot up, and caught the man's shoulder, keeping it pressed back, and his weapon's tip merely inches from her. He pressed into his attack harder, her leg straining against the assault. She felt her leg about to give way.... She couldn't see it, but she could feel the man's grin behind his helm as he sentenced her to her doom...

---
Meanwhile, the First Sergeant watched s his men were cut down, stomping his foot angrily. "Hmph! These lot are skilled. I must have to smite them myself!" He said, running towards the mercenaries, halberd in hand. He got untill he found the man that started all this, Kayl. The man weilded a Killing Edge, but would be no match for his lance... "You! You shall be the first to fall to my weapon, fool!" He said, charging to battle.

The myrmidon that Elliane thought she knocked out slowly rose to his feet. "T-this is bad.... I-I'd better go tell the Captain!" He siad, bolting off back towards Grall.

"Ellaine!" Kaylee squealed, seeing the red headed girl be wounded and knocked to the ground.

Half-shutting her eyes, she concentrated, sending the power of her abilities to aid the Child Soldier. Out of the corner of her eye though, she saw the First Sergeant lumbering towards Kayl. The thought crossed her mind to warn her brother, but it quickly vanished with exhaustion and a new pain- a cramp. Kaylee clutched her side, barely managing to keep dancing as she battled with the pain.

Kayl drew his blade skillfully along a soldier's neck and observed his surroundings; there were no more soldiers around him, but what was that? A reflection caught in the corner of his eye. Glancing at the source, Kayl cursed, readying his blade for a fight he knew wouldn't end in his favor. Still he stood in a ready position; prepared for the First Sergeant to come within range.. There. He slid his blade to the right and somersaulted forward, recovering quickly and trying to jump behind the Sergeant and slash his Killing Edge under his enemy's armor.

Nina watched as the girl she was speaking to left to join the battle. Nina than turned to Liliana and said “ you watch yourself ok, stay where I can at least see you.” Liliana chuckled and said “ I can handle myself.” Liliana than saw a few Soldiers running around and she smiled, she opened her Elfire tome and started to read off the words of the spell. When she finished she watched as the soldiers scattered from the fear of the flames. While Liliana was messing around Nina was busy summoning. Nina looked toward the sky and said “ Gabriel, I summon thee as my protector.” after speaking those words a circle appeared under Nina, a pattern started to be drawn and than a man appeared in front of Nina. She looked at the man and said “ Gabriel, I need you to help me fight these soldiers.” the man held out his hand and a blade appeared before him. He grabbed it and said “ I will do as you command mistress.” Nina responded “ what did I say about calling me that, it just sounds awkward.” Gabriel bowed and said “ I am sorry.” he than took off toward the soldiers Liliana had scared with her Elfire and he attacked them. Even though he was at a disadvantage Gabriel had speed on his side, he attacked the soldiers they jutted their lances at him but he dodged and than struck at their armor. He saw that they began to out number him, it was four soldiers he looked around for a way to even the odds. He than watched as a soldier was hit with a ball of fire. He looked and saw Liliana with her head deep into her Elfire tome.

Nina stood next to Liliana, she opened her Carreau tome and she began to read, from her words a ball of dark magic was created it slammed into a soldier and he fell to ground. Gabriel than jabbed his blade into the downed soldier and than turned to the remaining three. He looked at the one who was hit by the Elfire, he would be the easiest to take down. Gabriel ran toward the soldier, the soldier was distracted by the pain of the Elfire and was stabbed through the chest. Gabriel grabbed the man and used him as a shield, he pulled out his blade and than kicked the man into the remaining two soldiers this distraction bought him enough time to take wound one soldier with a quick slash through his chest armor. He than kicked the other soldier causing the man to fall to the ground. The fallen soldier was then bombarded by a combination of Carreau and Elfire and was defeated. Gabriel and the last soldier stared at each other, the man was bleeding badly, he knew he wouldn’t make it out alive. So the man rushed Gabriel and stabbed him in the leg with his lance. The man was than stabbed through the chest by Gabriel’s blade and Gabriel said to him “ you were a worthy foe, now rest.” the man gripped Gabriel’s arms trying to say something, but he died and fell to the ground before the words could reach his lips. Gabriel limped back to Nina she looked at his wound and than took out her Psychic staff. She started to heal him when Liliana started to yell. Nina looked up and saw the girl they were talking to about to be killed by a knight. Nina yelled to Liliana “ use Elfire on the knight as a distraction after I heal Gabriel, we will be able to fight as a team!” Liliana nodded and her head went into her Elfire tome.

Liliana finished the spell and a ball of fire flew through the air and connected with the Knight’s chest plate and she yelled “ leave her alone you stupid brute, pick on someone your own size.” after saying that Liliana looked at herself, she was much smaller than anyone else on the battlefield so her words really didn’t mean much. Nina finished healing Gabriel, he looked at her and said “ I won’t have as much speed as before because of this wound and I’m kind of tired so I think you should summon a second guardian for support.” Nina nodded and she began to perform a summoning. Gabriel than ran over to the knight attacking the girl, he was fast but he was nursing the wound at the same time. It was easily seen, but he wasn’t going to let it show on his face. Gabriel slashed at the knight getting the man’s attention. He than took a fighting stance and prepared to fight. Nina’s summoning was nearing it’s completion, a circle appeared under her and a pattern was etched, it was similar to Gabriel’s but slightly different. As the summoning was completed a man stood before her. He had long white hair, part of which covered the left side of his face. This man had cold blue eyes that looked like they could see right through you. He turned to Nina and said “ it’s been a long time since you needed me, what do you need?” Nina smiled and said “ Victor, I need your blades to help with defeating that knight.” the man turned to look at the knight facing Gabriel and he said “ alright, I’ll do it.” the man held out his hands and two daggers appeared in his hands he ran toward Gabriel and faced the knight. He than said “ well Gabriel, looks like someone finally got you.” Gabriel looked at Victor and responded “ it’s only a scratch, I can still show you up in front of our master.” Victor chuckled and said “ we shall see.”

Nina sank to the ground now breathing heavier, two summons at once were taking a toll on her body. She slowly got up and walked to Liliana she sat down next to her little sister and smiled and could only watch as her two summons prepared to fight the knight.