Tartarus Union

[Elena Ichinomiya]

Inside one mansion, there's a girl standing up straight, waiting for her first duty to the royal court. Her family been part of the court since war of Aventine concluded. She's been waiting for this day. To do her job that always become pride of her family. Though of course she don't work under the King. But the Princess for a starter. Well, to say that it wasn't easy might be understatement. She had to be there for the young princess to warn her about the political matter, economic and the people well being. She never expect her to be her nanny of all thing! But she do the job anyway, thinking that maybe her family always had through this...little side job before they sit on the round table. Though of course being on same age, sometime they cuss at each other, nothing hold them unless their parent is around.

Childish antic would turn into a grown up mind as it become something to reflect on. What went wrong? Why you can't do that? Why people cuss at you for that? One step at a time, the Princess become more cherished by it people for the years to come. With the girl by her side. A young, white haired girl that never shy away from her foreign look. If there's just one people accept your existence for who you are, make it as reason to keep living. That's what her grandfather told her back in the day. Not to mention that he's her role model. And she looking forward to the day where she can fulfill her duty and her family legacy.

Or that's what she had in mind. Until there's a fire blazing over the castle and everyone lies dead before her eyes. It was then when the Princess, a person who grow along with her, is at the knife point. The Kingdom has fallen. She can't say who cause this or care. She was lucky that she can escape. But no breath of relief coming from her. Her responsibility is still stuck behind those walls. The Princess, her childhood friend. Her sworn sister...

For the first time, she had reason to have a cause to follow. To believe. And to protect...

---

"Hey Esmeralda...how long are we going to sleep under the trees? I'm bored watching those cloud already..."

"One moment...here we go!" the young minister get up from the ground and make her move. Her white striking out amidst the greenery surround her. She was armed for some reason but not for heavy combat. Just a minimum requirement to have a safe journey from the danger of the wilderness. Her eyes stare at the Kingdom at the distance. She let out a sigh. But seconds later, she smiled.

"Wait for a bit Yuril. Big sister is coming for you!" she said as her feet move away from where the castle are.

"Well, what do we do from here now?" Ask her companion.

"Build an army of course"

"From thin air?"

"Who do you think i am? Go figure!"

"Esmeralda, you lost me. You only have stolen sword for a weapon and me for an army"

"Quit yapping! I'm trying to figure out how! Anyway, how long has it been since we were...exiled?"

"...almost a season i'm afraid..."

"Dammit...we can't stall like this! Princess need our help!"

Her companion respond just as quick. "With what? After the rebel effort fail, there's no one dare to raise an arm against-"

"Don't say that name!"

"...err...against that man and his rules.  We had army before and yet we fail. What make you think second wind gonna make difference?"

"We don't know until we tried. I told you that you can leave after we were exiled. I'll be fine doing this on my own"

"Esmeralda don't be crazy now, Princess Yuril gonna be sad if she find your head on a stake next thing in the morning"

"Watch your tongue...she's a Queen now...address her properly if you will" she sounds sad and defeated when saying that.

Her companion let out a deep sigh. Seems like those statement reopen her inside wound. "I want to save Princess Yuril too but how? We need somewhere to start things off. Going around like farmer headless chicken like this won't get us anywhere let alone an army. And pray tell...why are we heading this way? Isn't this where Village Oli located?"

"Yep. If we want to build an army. Start out small. By all mean...we...have to make name for ourselves?"

Her companion catch her hesitation. "I don't like where this going. You already plan this out do you?"

"I am! Just...just let's head there and see if there's trouble we can fix!"

---

To put it bluntly, saying there's trouble in this very village is understatement. The moment they came here, both of them can smell plague in the air. The young minister swear that her vision suddenly goes bleak looking at this poor village. Not only that, the place is a mess and very unsightly. One glance is enough to make any governor hesitant to give this place a hope. The young minister however, press on. She already set the stone where she should go. If this is the right place to start, then she shall. As per rule of every journey, she had to ask what trouble the village lately. The answer? A lot. There's plague going on and they can't find the cure. There an animal attack thanks to the little defense the village had as they usually rely on night guards. Which are now missing thanks to the new "ruler" who barge to the Kingdom. Then there's this fellow who preach nonsense and causing unrest. 

"This is bad. This village is hopeless" said her companion

"Not quite. Look. That blacksmith still operating, just happen to have enough supplies to fulfill its quota before it run dry which i assume its going to happen sooner. Farmer still had their orchard intact, just missing the cattle. This village state is awful but they still had decent economy running at least except the cattle business. We should ask the person who run this village...hopefully they're friendly"

"What you gonna do?"

"Making a hard deal"

---

Inside the house, a man can be seen kneeling in praying manner. Clearly a trouble in this village cause a stress on him as he try to keep the village afloat amidst the post-war many days ago. He wonder, what can he do? Did he do something wrong? How can he make the village thrive at least a little better? There's still time before winter but seeing the state of this village, he can't say it will be enough. Trouble always come every single day. Be it animal attack, or in worse scenario, a bandit. He can't do anything against the latter though thankfully, none ever come to this village. But it might be a matter of time until-

"Hello? Anyone there?"

Someone knock at the door. He halt his prayer as he reach the door...

"Hello? It's Minister of Randgritz Kingdom"

Minister!? His heart sink. He imagine that the Kingdom gonna set a tax on his already poor village who barely able to fill their table with food. He felt like this is it. His village is doomed. They would set a high tax and they can't pay, and his head will-

"HELLO!? ARE YOU DEAD!?"

"Esmeralda, for heaven sake, you might kill the people inside already with that statement!"

Esmeralda? The man remember vaguely that name. Surely he heard that somewhere. Beside, he didn't heard the trampling horses or villager shout of terror. Maybe he just paranoid after all. So he open the door and find the two people stand before him. One look finely dressed albeit with weapon on her side. Another one seems like traveler or someone who might run at any seconds when danger strike but also well equipped on the side. Seeing there's no army whatsoever, he speak up.

"What can i help you with traveler?" the man clearly forgot the title young minister had

"I'm here to recover your village"

"R-Recover? Oh please, we don't have place to live! We barely make a living last season after the invasion-"

"Hold your horses good sir! What i mean recover is revitalize this village! I have no interest taking your village even if my sworn sister told me to or losing a bet!"

Hearing her statement, the man tilt her head in confusion. How? The young minister is rather young and look inexperienced. Which somewhat true because she didn't have her chance to shine. Regardless, he humor them.

"And how you gonna do that young lady? We just recover from plague and most of our economic structure are in shamble. To add more trouble, there's no guards. Animal attack were rampant to the point we had to go back inside before sunset else a pack of wolf would pounce at us"

"I can help you with that. But let me take the rein of your village"

"...Did i hear you right Esmeralda?" ask her companion

"I told you, we have to make name for ourselves. Who knows if there's people who still want to liberate Randgritz out there. That, and i feel bad for this village. Secondly, i won't lend a hand in the first place if i can't do a thing about this place"

---

Perhaps desperation really push the man to its limit, he agree on giving the young minister a rein to his village. Perhaps he believe that this is the answer to his prayer to make the village flourish again, or like he wished, to survive for another winter. At her order, he was told to call everyone to gather on the well where she will told her plan. Once everyone there, she stand there and ask every single of them about their concern. Mostly told her what she already heard though. But the young minister give a nod. But instead solving one of it, she propose another plan.

"We need lumberjack" she said

"Wait, they don't need that. They need good flow of food, mineral and defense"

"They don't need that sure, but wood is infrastructure on small village like this regardless. Any youngster who can lift an axe should gather the woods at morning when the sun rises. Make sure we got at least...hmm...how many of you who were good at swinging?"

There's 4 of them.

"Four...well...let's start this off with gathering at least 4...no, that won't do. We need more supplies quick. Cut down two trees for each two of you. I want to know how well you doing your...work...wait, are you a girl?"

"Lumberjill Jill at your service minister!"

"Oh...well...you can prove yourself next day. Don't let me down"

"If i might ask, what you gonna use those woods for? Walls?" ask her companion

"No, its too early. We need to build a fence to divide each square of orchard or else the trees might overgrown on each other farmer lawn and cause an unnecessary antic because they can't tell anymore which plot are theirs. And if i'm not mistaken, there's river not far from here, just a few meters in fact. We can use any spare wood to make fishing rod but that's also too early because there's no horse hair available. For now, we armed the villager first with something meaningful to defend themselves. Any blacksmith?"

"We're over here! Well...there's just us who work there though"

Young minsiter frowned "How many spear you can produce with what you had?"

"If my dad ain't having back issue, we can at least make 3 to 5. Otherwise, its just 2 at best"

"And the material?"

"Enough for now but we're not sure unless we found mineral to mine out of seeing merchant has no interest visiting this bleak village"

"That's concerning alright...well. Secure the woods and give them to the blacksmith to make weapon of. The rest of you, do your work as usual. I'll see how you lumberjack-"

"And Jill!"

"Yeah and Jill too..."

"Color me surprised, there's still colorful face around here" said her companion

"You don't say..."

---

For a size of bleak village, at least they have decent place to stay. Unfortunately, the young minister title doesn't help to get a luxury of free stay. She had to pay. Thankfully the innkeeper is aware of the state of their building so it doesn't cost much. At least they have basic needs like food and drink. Though they can only enjoy small amount of veggies and berry for now thanks to the missing meat production.

"So...build an army right? Well, tell me, what do we get from revitalize this place?"

"Their consideration. Remember Jill and that young man at blacksmith? They are suitable candidate, but they won't raise an arm knowing they have something to lose in their home. There might be more but they will show themselves eventually. Trust are something that you earn after all"

"But what if its not enough? You might only get two rather than ten at once after this"

"Then it is what it is. I'll take anyone who want to join the cause. If they don't want to be part of, so be it. Who am i to force them? Or judge them? I'm just a piss poor young minister who can't even lift a finger against a one single soldier who had her sworn sister taken by force"

"Hey, you're diplomat, not a fighter. Don't beat yourself too much"

That didn't translate well on the young minister ear. "Yuril almost died dammit! Did you forgot why we're here!? Had it not for her selfless act to marry that rotter rat against her will in exchange for our freedom after the rebellion, we wouldn't be here! Or at least if i can fight and cut that man throat without hesitation back then when there's chance for it, she would still being her stupid self smelling flowers every single day right now instead kissing that shite incarnate, on that altar, with tears running on her cheek! Her fate is on my hand that day but i hesitate because i never kill a man before. And it cost me my sworn sister! Of course I'm still bloody bitter of my own...damn it all..." the young minister snapped. Even she has something at stake. She can save her that day but she couldn't. And those guilt linger inside her. And she want to make up for it. Up to this day, she still wish one day she would see her sworn sister back. But she know such fairy tale isn't exist as she have to make it possible with her own hand.

Somehow her companion took it well. Perhaps moved by her absolute resolve if not a bit reckless. But that could be a good reason to believe in her cause. "Well, if that's the case, let me put leash on you. Like i said, Princess Yuril won't take kindly having your head on stake at the gate. Let me do my role please?"

"...what make you think i need that kind of person backing me up?"

"You didn't shoo me for starter"

"Fair enough, because you never asked for it"

"Ouch..."

---

Next day, the people do what she was told much to her surprise. Perhaps the face of someone who clearly know what they doing is what drive them to follow her order. After all, some people still judge someone by their clothing. She told her companion to watch over the orchard for her as she goes to the forest with the lumberjack (and Jill). Much to her surprise, this village didn't running short on wood supplies. They claim that they only cut down trees on autumn because they can tell which trees are old enough to be cut down. 

"If we cut it this short, its not good enough for a spear used by military" said one lumberjack

"No. But its enough to make a short spear. You have to defend yourself for now until we secure enough supplies to make a walls. I even surprise no bandit didn't come over"

"Well that's the thing. This village is so poor that even the bandit know they can't get anything from here" said Jill

"That's...a compliment?"

Turning back to the village, they secure enough woods for blacksmith to make weapon. They were told next wood is for a basic supplies for everyone. Be it for woodfire or fixing their houses. Now for the most common thing in mind. Food. Orchard might over numerous food for the village but the plague had kick that possibility. They need steady food ready to eat right away. There's no herb so there's only one option. Fishing.

"What are you doing now?" ask her companion who find Esmeralda carving a wood spear.

"Fishing. It would take a while doing it like this but i heard my grandfather used to do this back in the day when he journey to the Aventine. Might as well practice it"

With that, she set off. Once they're at the river. She show off how to do it. She remove her boots and dip her foot on the body of the river. She remain perfectly still as her eyes fixated on the fish who pass her by. Again, for a size of a poor village, they actually had chance to recover early. Anyway, the young minister manage to catch one fish right away. A lucky strike she claimed, as she usually take more longer with many hit and miss. 

"Hopefully, people are patient enough doing this for now until we got horse hair for fishing lines..."

---

For the first time, the village seems a bit lively with new income of food which is a fish. Don't bother with meat, they even bless those alternative whole heartedly despite the fact they didn't catch much and some people miss out and stuck eating vegetable and fruits begrudgingly. As for the duo, they stick to the vegetable and fruits, claiming that those people need the energy they can get for next day. Out of curiosity, she asked any reason why merchant don't come here other than being a poor and bleak village. 

"Maybe the bridge that connect this village is broken after the attack. We would love to fix it ourselves but that would take days due to distances. But some said because they can't take the risk since the woods has eyes"

Despite the grim news, Esmeralda found herself smiling.

"Perfect..."

---

Another day come and this time, the young minister asked for the first big favor. She want to see the bridge that mentioned before. People were hesitate, but as Esmeralda expect, the young blacksmith and Jill stand to the front. The man claim he might get a chance to find mineral deposit on their way there. As for Jill, she might able to help to assume how many wood needed to fix the bridge. Giving them two a nod of approval, they depart. Does the innkeeper kidding? No. The woods is indeed thick enough that one creature might jump off from the woods. But that Soon be proven when some odd looking bull come out. It charge blindly like a boar. But the danger stop there. With a slight distraction of taunt, it look away and give the young blacksmith chance to stab it with his own handcrafted spear. Then followed with a slash from Esmeralda sword before it face its demise.

"This isn't cow..." said the female lumberjack

"No it isn't. One of Leshy creature. Thankfully its primitive enough for us to handle. But still capable to stampede a merchant caravan regardless" 

They proceed on and reach the bridge. They're not kidding, the sun is already on its peak when they arrive.

"We can use the woods we gather and bring it here...if we had wagon that is which we're not. Tell me, how long does it take to make a wagon?"

"With material we have? Maybe two days. Heavy duty cart need some more than just a nail but metal bars. And solid wood to boot" said the man.

Seeing there's no chance to focus on this bridge, they head back to the village. The only way to get this done is a good transport of supplies; and well armed guard in case another wild bovine appear.

Once they reach the village, there's many people seems busy with the order she given. However she find the orchard gardener is idle. Normally they watch over them so vigilantly to shoo away any pest coming from the nature. She need to do something about that. 

"Say, does this field able to grow something? One with destroyed fence?" she asked

"Sure it could. But we don't have much seed so it remain empty. Why?" the gardener respond

"Mind if we use that part of your soil? Just that part only" 

"Sure thing but what do you plan to do with it?"

"Planting something that would distract us from hunger at least for a day..."

---

Another day passed and the duo can be seen struggling in the woods, looking for some herb seed. Esmeralda had to admit that she never do this before but she know its possible to harvest a seed from herb and plant it yourself. Thing is, she only know it from the book. One that was owned by Princess Yuril since she's such green thumb. She never knew such passing by knowledge would be some use like this. What make this difficult is she can't distinguish them well as she might mistake a wild grass as herb. She can't risk this because the whole village might end up poisoned if she pick the wrong one. This would take a while than when taking trip to the bridge. That is until she trip and fall to the ground. Her white hair now stained with dirt.

"You alright?"

"..."

"Esmeralda?"

"...this is what we need..."

"What? Dirt and turn on your shoulder?"

"No, this log i just trip myself to...look at this"

Turn out there's a mushroom growing there. They get the idea. 

"But are you sure this one is okay to eat?"

"No. Either this gonna kill us right an instant, or like Yuril once told me, you'll see donkey"

"What?"

"Its worth a try"

"Wait!"

Too late, the young minister just consume it. Her face contorted and she complaint that it taste like dirt. Maybe because its not rinsed before she ate it. But few minutes later, she seems fine. Though her companion tilt his head when she claim its after taste is like cold chicken. Regardless, they decide to bring those woods and spore along back to the village to farm. And the reaction? More delight from everyone face. It seems the food had been secure for now. Esmeralda still bitter that she can't make fishing pole for some reason. At least there's another thing to celebrate later for a dinner...

---

The village seems to get more lively as of late but Esmeralda still think this is not enough. The bridge, the walls, and the cattle are still missing. Since the wagon is finished, they decide to proceed on their previous plan to fix the bridge. But unlike previous event, this time Esmeralda ask for more number of people. She told them each cart has to be guarded back and forth. But that's not an issue because she propose that they had to stay the night to prevent anything from destroying the bridge. That would be the real challenge lies. And as always, its the young blacksmith and Jill who came out first. They still held same reason although Jill added she just want to know how it felt like sleeping under the stars. And so they commence the plan.

The supplies of wood coming back and forth and luckily, no problem along the way except few wild creature passing by. However the young minister realize something need to be done. 

"The bridge, make it ugly and unsightly" said Esmeralda.

"Wait what? That only discourage the merchant to pass by if they see creaky bridge. Ain't that beat our purpose of fixing this?" ask her companion

"Yeah, but i didn't say anything about make it poorly. If you make a bridge look like it made from gold, it only encourage bandit to cross it. We can't have that. At least by making it look poor, they won't dare to cross as they fear the bridge might crumble if they march with their horses on it. And they don't want to waste half day to reach a village on foot either which is good thing. Merchant however, they come in variety. Some with caravan, some are on foot. Daring merchant always take any path to make money. Even if it mean crossing bridge made from twig. I say its pretty much true" 

After hearing her explanation, they do what they can to make the bridge less savory by the looks and start building it. It was difficult and even more so since there's another order from the young minister herself. But much to their surprise, they can't complaint when Esmeralda sitting and helping them work along with her companion.

"Leave her be, she's in her comfort zone" her companion told them

As she predicted, it would take days and she strictly ordered the people to stop their work and come back home before sunset. And here they are, four of them sitting beside the bridge foundation.

"Are you really a minister?" ask Jill

"I am...well, used to be. Minister place is inside the castle"

"So...what are you doing here?"

"...doing myself a favor"

"What favor?" ask the young blacksmith

"Build an army, fight against that...maniac that is your King right now, and save my sister"

"Eh? You mean...you going to stage a rebellion? But i don't see the army..." said Jill

"The army is us isn't it?" Said the young blacksmith

"Yes. I won't mince word with you. That is my intention. But you can refuse if you want"

"Is that why you helping us? Make it some sort of returning the favor by recruiting everyone to go on rebelling?" 

"You sure are skeptic for a young blacksmith"

"Yeah well, i join those rebel back in the day. My commander however is a sour pussy. When tactic don't go well, he blame everyone for sabotages. Well, not every rebel soldier have patient of a saint so his head roll. With that kind of record, i had my doubt about your rebellion. Beside, what do you get from us? Most youngster barely even able to lift an axe"

"Will to fight come from the heart. Poor skill can be honed, but willpower is something that even a tyrant couldn't bend once it solidify. If i left with just two of you to fulfill my stage of rebellion, i am very much thankful. But if i left with nothing, then it is what it is"

"You're oddly sound confident yet also defeated at the same time" said Jill

"Well...i had a bit of history with a battle you see? This sword right here? I only swing it for the first time when we fight that bull. I never fight before. But i had to because someone waiting for me"

"Your sister?"

"Sworn sister"

---

It take days until the bridge finally finished. At this time, they had enough woods to build a walls. It might not help much but it help the farmer the most as their garden isn't bullied every single night by passing by boar. Or in worst case, a bear. However this is something that would take even longer as they had to calculate the possibility of expanding. And not to mention lots of people needed to close the village from harm. There is however, one thing that come to mind of her companion. A defense is just that, a defense. Without proper way to handle it, everyone here is pretty much meat shield. This is where the duo stuck because they can't mentor those people to train in arms. They probably fight recklessly which might be common for a village bumpkin, but that won't do for Esmeralda.

"I guess there's something i can't do with my experience..." said Esmeralda

"Wish i can help but i'm just a poor infantry at the gate back then. Not exactly grand being a teacher" said her companion

Perhaps to distract the young minister from berating herself, they met with a surprise. A person carry a big bag behind him with a magnifying glass just cross the gate. This is the moment she's been waiting for.

"Wow, i never thought there's village in here after all! I wonder if i can interest them with some stuff..."

"Hey you! Got horse hair? i buy that, every single of it! You! Come on! Lend me a hand!"

"Lend me a hand with what!? You don't even receive the good yet!" her companion grumbled

A transaction going on smoothly and she manage to secure some mineral out from the merchant bag. Not much, but that will do. 

"I lost a few coin for this. But at least i can teach people here to fish!"

"Hey, they're not that primitive you know..."

"Eh? Really?"

"What on earth, do you think they can't even make the fishing rod by themselves!?"

"...yes"

---

Slowly but surely, the village begin to revitalize as she desire. It take days if not almost a month but if this keep up, Esmeralda predict they would be prepare for winter on the next autumn. The walls of tall woods almost finished. They would even do the effort to build a watch tower. Thankfully, there's number of unused bow around so they can utilize the tower height with their archer. Provided they can even fire that thing that is.

They pay a visit to the head of village house to tell him how they fare and how to keep this up. They can't get the cattle but they might find some wild goat they can take care off until the proper merchant come this way which might take a while. However the reason they're here is because they going to reveal their intention. The man shake his head, sharing similar answer to the young blacksmith that she can't gain much. However she insist to telling them who want to join her cause or not. Because at least if they end up glaring at her for it, she tried.

Once again she standing in front of the crowd. And without hesitation, she declare her intention. Some people doubt themselves, some think its nothing, some quietly mocking. Either way, it seems there's not much progress can be gained from here. As Esmeralda predicted. Even worse, there seems to be no one coming even Jill and the young blacksmith. The stake were too high and they can't risk their life to the cause that can barely hold a cup in a fight let alone rebel. 

"We're sorry but we just can't. The fight took toll on us to the point why we're like what you used to see when you come here. We don't want to go back to that dark time again. We're thankful but i fear we must decline..." 

"Its okay. At least everyone considering it instead hostility"

"Might we asked though. Why you even helping us even though you know we're not be of help to you in return?"

Esmeralda smiled at the question. "Because i'm a minister of this Kingdom. You are my responsibility"

---

The duo depart once again. They were told to visit another small city a few distance from Oli. There might be request for help which is part of Esmeralda plan because if she has name for herself, she can gather the people with ease as she stage another rebellion. It would be long journey which she hope won't take that long for her sworn sister sake. But if this is the path that she must take, then so be it.

"Wait up! Both of you!"

The duo look back, only to see Jill coming at them

"You sure are walk fast. I thought you catch a horse along the way"

"Well, we're not in that hurry, just don't want to get stuck in forest a sunset. What about you?" ask Esmeralda

"Join you on your journey! After what you did at the village? I don't see why not. I don't even had family there anyway, they pass away after the plague. I wish there's something i can do to the people since they took care of me. Until you come in that is. So, can i join?"

"...what are you good at?"

"Wood carving?"

"Excellent. Let's go"

"Wait Esmeralda, are you serious!?"

"Do i have to repeat myself? I take everything i can get to fulfill my promise" said the young minister as she walk ahead of them

"You're such extremist...oh well" her companion sighed

"But i kind of believe that she capable to stage a rebellion out from sheer will if she had to..."

"I never doubt that. Let's see where she going to take us. I have to warn you though, she can be unpredictable"

And with that, the trio march on toward their next destination. A small city bustling with the ever busy commercial district. And also known as city that sleep on daylight...

Audia, The Middleman City

[Elena Ichinomiya]

It take days until they arrive at Audi, the middleman city. Based from what people said about this city, there's always "alternative" way to make your fortune here. Everyone here held much contact with each other. One would assume that every inch of this city have ears. You need someone to make a paper to pass the gate? They have those guys. You need to know which horse gonna win on the next tourney? You have those guys. You need to find info about the rebellion presence? They got you covered. There's always something in this city that would cover everyone need. For a price obviously. However seeing that they arrive early, the city isn't bustling much with activity. Guess its pretty much true about the city that sleep on daylight.

"Here we are Esmeralda. What we gonna do?" ask her companion

"We looking for work of course. Those are adventure guild isn't it?" 

"What? Which one?"

"There, the one with no signboard on it"

"...how do you tell its an adventure guild?" ask Jill as she also squint at the building

"Well you don't serve beer with a sword on your back that's for sure" the young minister said before march in

What greet them however, is just single man who seems...a bit too green to held a sword. Maybe they same age as Jill or maybe younger. 

"...sorry, wrong address" Esmeralda turn her back

"Wait! You're not from here are you? I never see those emblem on your uniform...are you someone important by any chance?"

"I am. Well, somewhat"

"Oh! Tell me, do you have work for me?"

"Excuse me?"

"Well this is adventure guild you see? Got something need to be done? Drop it here, i get it done"

"Sorry did i hear you saying me over and over?" ask Esmeralda

The young man shrug "See anyone else?"

"Fine...i got one job. Join me in rebellion" she said bluntly

"Wait, this is adventure guild, not mercenary pub" he told her

"Do you want job or not?"

"Well...i kind of love to but rebelling? Why? I don't see any war breaking out"

"No, but we're about to start another. You coming?" Esmeralda said

"Wait! You really about to start the rebellion?"

"Its true. So? What you say?

---

At one corner of the street, the young minister and her company hiding behind walls. They never expect the guard would react to such accusation despite the fact there's just three of them. Her companion look at her with their own judgement. The young minister just shrug it.

"Bloody kite! I never thought those guard react that bad toward us!"

"Hey, you about to instigate the rebellion in this area, of course they can at least pretend to be concerned" said her companion

"Right...but that only give us a clue. It seems the rebel is not completely wiped out"

"How so? Last thing i heard they were losing big" said Jill

"That we are. But seeing they still react with spear pointed at us instead just drag us out, that mean there's still rebel out there rising an arms against the new rule. They won't put such high alert reaction over some petty trio raving nonsense unless it has something to do with them. We have to find those rebel?"

"How? Bribing people to tell us? We don't have much to make people spill the bean especially about the rebellion" ask her companion

"No. But if they're bunch of good people, i think we can meet with them one way another"

Moving on from their hiding, they heading toward the place where most people gather. The tavern. Esmeralda isn't pretty much of a drinker as she always claim such drink get in the way of her job. But she isn't stranger toward alcohol either. The reason why she visit here is because she want to ask about the recent danger that happen lately. The barkeep tell them there's this one way open road infested with robbery. Most merchant avoid that road but those who didn't know or not from Audi, always fall prey upon those road. However after the rebellion, things a bit calm over there. Just a bit though. Doesn't mean it won't happen. After hearing the information, she left with her companion.

---

"We're camping here? Why? The inn doesn't look too bad" said Jill

"You're free to come back but pay your own bill" said Esmeralda

"Oh come on. Anyway, why are we here?"

"I want to investigate the attack. If there's one happening, we can meet those self-righteous people" 

But turn out it doesn't happen at that very day. They had to come back to the said spot time and time again. The only time they go back inside the city is when there's rain coming down. Other than that, Esmeralda persist on sitting there waiting. It is then when she decide she have to do things with her own hand.

"Both of you, how good you are with weapon?" she asked

"Decent" said her companion

"Heavy weapon is okay by me" said Jill

"Good, now sit here and wait. If thing get ugly, come over. Other than that, sit down and wait"

Once the young minister off to commence her plan, her companion and Jill just sit there waiting. They clearly don't know what she plan this time. Even her travelling companion can't always predict what inside that woman mind. Jill? She just trust Esmeralda know what she doing. She ain't minister for nothing. Or is it? Because they can see from where they at, a small girl with white hair walk along the path alone. Her hair sure striking out even from distance that they can tell its Esmeralda. 

"What is she doing?" Jill asked

"Who knows. Just do her favor and stay put"

"Oh look, someone get in the way. Are those bandits?"

"Maybe..."

"They pull out their sword"

"I can tell..."

"Umm...say, does the minister know how to fight?"

"...no?"

"She's backing away"

"Smart..."

"She's running off in panic!"

"I can see that! That's our cue alright, let's go!"

---

The moment they about to reach her, they had dagger pointed to their face. The duo know they can't win against those number of people. However, they notice Esmeralda walking toward them, telling that they're friendly which make them lower their weapon. Turn out they just save Esmeralda right on time and mistake the duo as reinforcement.

"Mind telling us what this about?"

"The city vigilante you might said. And the very bunch of rebel we heard about. I thought they won't come out from hiding so i decide to lure them out by ticking their sense of justice"

"We don't like the royal court altogether. Yet here we are saving the minister out of pity" said one person

"Oh please, if i am minister, why on earth i travel alone instead with whole army that could split your head in two and make example of?"

"Esmeralda that's a bit too graphic" utter her companion

"You're not? But you claim as such" said the rebel

"I still am a minister. I just being on runaway to seek aid to rebel against the new ruler. And i'm still looking for another to join the cause"

The rebel sense where this conversation goes. "And all this trouble just to recruit us? No reward with high risk?"

Esmeralda view about them change right that instant too "I guess you're right. I just notice your sense of justice is not aligned with us. Or something that we need"

"I don't like that tone. You saying we're good for nothing?"

"What does it sounds like? Your kind will always fell in disorder once a clank of coin tipped your ears"

"Esmeralda!"

"You should be grateful we save your skin just now"

"And? Does the thank you give your beloved city some peace? You should be ashamed to think you can make change by sitting duck in your freshly dug out cave pretending to be carrier of justice. Forget it" said Esmeralda as she left them. One of the rebel aim the bow at her head. But the young minster stop on her track, telling them that killing her won't change the state of the city they so love and care about. That somehow convince them again to lower their weapon.

"I don't need a lost cause to join my army. Good day"

Her two companion follow after. Much to their surprise, those vigilante didn't shoot them on the back.

"Hey...what's the sudden change of plan?" ask Jill

"They're not willing to die for the cause. You know we build an army here, not a ragtag of misfit on adventure where everyone can go home safe and sounds or losing a limbs at least. And we certainly not mercenary wagon either. They only in for a reward. I know those kind of people well and how they act once the fight is over. This is why i rather sweat myself out to get people like you who come on their own will one by one than whole brigade at once only to follow the cause they don't even know as long as it pays"

"She's right. In fact, the rebellion back then failed because most people had something at stake. In worse case, they just in for fame and glory, only to realize the horror of war is too much that their mental breaking and shaken on their boots before their head roll. We've seen a lot of it. Now you know how much does it take, are you sure you still up for it?" said her companion.

Jill nod at the question "Like i said, i have no one else back home. If i can make Village Oli safe for many season to come by putting end to the tyrant reign, i'll do it. Honestly i'm scared. But i'll do it!"

---

Seeing they gain nothing from this, they decide to call it a day. It was a waste of time after all. Esmeralda might be picky and nonsensical but she has her reason. What people tend to miss out from instigating the rebellion is the post war. Once the war is over, some would go back to their home or go on journey. Some might join the army of the revolution. Most of it? They going rogue and cause trouble because the new reign can't hold much space for them to settle, leaving them feel underappreciated and disposed. Esmeralda don't want that to happen to Radgritz once its liberated. Its like she's coming home bringing even more trouble at the end.

"So...what are we going to do now?" ask her companion

"We're looking for another way to recruit. I say we find another adventure guild. I know we miserably fail previously, but this time i can make this work"

"Why i had feeling we'll success in twisted manner..." said her companion

So they search another adventure guild. They clearly new to this city despite the fact Esmeralda grow up in this country. They find various guild but not what they seek or what Esmeralda seek. She want to find the suitable one for the job where she would find it easy to get a new comrade in arms. So they stuck in front of the building at the corner. Her companion quickly raise their brow. This place is very odd for a guild. No one would see it. And true to their suspicion, the door open yet it was empty. However Esmeralda smiled at the sight and place her stuff down. She also encourage her companion to do the same. Clearly she miss out the part where she should explain.

"I don't see what i need in this town. So i figure out that why not start our own adventure guild?"

"Minister, no offense but...aren't we supposed to get an army?"

"We do. But we can do it this way. For short term of course. If we failed, then it is what it is"

"By short...how long you expect we gonna have to deal with this idea of yours?" her companion grow skeptic

"Until midsummer or if there's setback, until first sign of autumn"

"That's...i thought you're in hurry to save Yuril" 

"And guess who said that i should be careful not to put my head on a stake?" she retort just as quick. 

---

To be fair, they have be the one who do the job. Its a race against other adventurer guild. But luckily for them, they had Esmeralda who has no knowledge in martial arts, yet she make it up for diplomatic approach, something that any adventure guild never had. One would assume adventurer guild would be perilous journey where muscle are needed most to get the job done. But with careful approach, sometime you can win something without steel involved. Doesn't mean it always succeed though. Esmeralda tend to get ahead of herself without warning. Her companion had to save her skin many times and Jill also had to bear the burnt of her mistake. For some reason, they never leave her side. Perhaps they realize they already in too deep in this business anyway so why stopping now? However their effort bear the fruit as they get more request by itself than looking on their own as time passed. It wasn't easy as they receive one scar or another. Though none are worth bragging for. They already made those guild work as intended. Now that they had name, Esmeralda finally had the guts to put a help wanted poster. But only in front door. 

"Another your vague attempt Esmeralda?" ask her companion

"Sort of. i just want to know how much sticking out this thing are. We'll move it to one spot to another"

And she do just that. First she stick it to the front door of their guild, then move it further to the open street, then to an entrance, and finally the town square. From all those spot, she find it easy to recruit the adventurer when it was stick to the open street than town square.

"Its actually obvious but i try it anyway. Most people on town square are people who already had business. Its basically just decoration for them" said Esmeralda

The adventurer who joined however, is a temporary most of the time. It was until the night of midsummer, a knock on the door greet Esmeralda companion who currently on the desk job. When the door open, an odd pair make their entrance. However there's no malice held in their eyes despite the look.  The moment they speak their intention, the loyal companion rush to the stairs, knocking the door where the young minister asleep. She open the door and ask what is it. And when she got the answer, she too, run downstairs.

And for the first time, she can't believe her luck...

"Been a while...Minster Esmeralda from the house of Quasar" the pair said in unison

"Anastasia! Valdo! What are you two doing here!?"

"Our house is under attack after your Kingdom fall...we thought you backstab us...turn out we see the people on the throne is different than the King we know...seems like we miss something"

Esmeralda explain what happen to the Kingdom which two of them listen intently. After all, they come from one of the ancient family who also has history on Randgritz existence. They living in the secluded part of the Kingdom but they won't harm you, but they do love to scare people at one point just to give the message that they're not people you want to get trouble with. One would assume they're your run of the mill vampire. But they're more than that. Sun only weaken them, and they basically has no weakness other than proper purge from the highest holy sect or killed by their own kin. They're the league of their own. 

"You never tell me you associate yourself to vampire...or they?"

"Leech"

"What?"

"Leech. They tend to refer themselves as that for some reason. Perhaps to kick the stigma of vampire out of their family after what happen on Isylvania years ago. I don't blame them though. But regardless, this is a surprise. Anyway, is there reason you looking for me?"

"We met with the Princess. She told us to find you to get more detail about what happen. After what you told us, no wonder there's many eyes on her..." said the duo

"Yuril still alive? How is she doing!? Is she hurt!?"

"No. She's untouched. But we can't say for how long. Those King of yours seems to have his own agenda with her. And certainly not having an affair with her of sort"

"That's...not exactly good news why?"

"That King seems to make deal with the devil. Most of army he had in those castle share similar aura like us. Clearly he just got himself a deal that he can only escape from by using the girl"

"I know that but what kind of danger she's in? Or at least when her execution started?"

"Not sure, but if our guess was true, she might be used in Rite of Damnation. And there's only one occasion where you can do that. Around winter when red crescent rise above Aventine"

"This year winter or what?"

"This year..."

"Oh no...can i...oh dear, oh dear..."

Perhaps even in the eyes of her companion, this is first time she's fumbling on her option. Normally she would jump into a statement and decision that they would be dragged along. But clearly this time, she felt her hope is on thin ice. 

"Hey...hey Esmeralda. Remember what i always told you" her companion remind her 

"R-Right...if this was the case...then we might need to hold our plan to build an army"

"Aren't these...Leech are powerful creature?" ask her companion

"Despite their look, they actually still a 7 to 12 years old in human age. They still inexperience. They told me themselves. They didn't reach the peak of their potential just yet" said Esmeralda

"Mind telling me why you choose to find us instead going against the oppression?" ask her companion

"We're sworn to never harm human unless they start it first, that is pretty much true. However we can't launch any counter as they somehow learn the silver pillar spell. We can't be killed with just that but that would reduce our power almost equal to human. We're helpless"

"Silver pillar spell used by holy sect only and can be casted on above blessed ground exclusively. Yet somehow Randgridz, who isn't a center of holy sect, have someone that able to cast such spell...interesting" Esmeralda contemplate.

"However we also come here for request. Before we join your rank"

"Name it"

"Save our friend. He seems like capable fighter you need in your rank. Even after the rebellion failed, he still cause trouble to the Kingdom army and steal the stuff to share it for the poor. But his luck cut short and he was caught. Seeing that he's a rebel, he would certainly get a death sentence. We can't save him since he's scheduled to meet his demise at daylight. Too risky for us to jump in the crowd. Then we heard someone said there's this lady who help some village before she depart a month later. She has white hair and claim that she's a minister...we only know one ambitious minister in our live since her childhood"

"Eh you make me blush...but thanks for considering to join my cause. Let's say i failed, what do we got?"

"We're...not...sure?"

Esmeralda companion whisper. "Were they serious? What's with that answer?"

"They are. I told you they're still brat in human age. They didn't think through much of their planning just like human kid would. I dare say this friend of theirs is one of their neighbor or something and they had strong relation which is why they seek help. Seeing that we need every person we can get in this army...let's help this man!"

"Who am i to judge? But you sure they're fine walking around with us on daylight?"

"Its on them. If they can't take it, they can stay and rest on the way. They probably can track us anyway with their heightened sense" said Esmeralda.

"So you'll help?" the duo ask in unison

"We will. Where is it?"

The "Leech" duo point out at the map attached on the wall...

"Antaross, City of White Stone"

[Elena Ichinomiya]

When they arrive at the city, the rain pouring down hard, forcing them to find shelter right away before they can proceed with the plan. Thankfully the Leech sibling didn't find it offensive for them to hide or else the innkeeper would freak out. Though he do give them a look when they ask for a room with more people when there's just three of them in front of him. But money is money. And he don't find Esmeralda convoy as bunch of thugs. Once they settle in, they gather around.

"Seems like the execution were halted due to rain" said Anastasia "Why don't they do that in secret chamber?"

"To give example of what happen to people who rebel against new rule. Suffice to say, to strike fear to any leftover rebel. But if what you said its true, then we still got chance" said Esmeralda

"That's good but how do we go from there? I mean, we gonna jump on platform with someone head about to be hung or chopped. There's no way this won't go without violence. And keep in mind you're rather underpowered Minister" said Esmeralda companion

"I know. That's why we should do it now"

"We...what? You lost us both Esmeralda" said the siblings in unison

"Come on, you both have what we need to get your friend out! As far as i know, Antaross prison isn't somewhere deep or faraway from the city. They are in fact, located in plain sight. We just need to find that building and get infiltrate it" said Esmeralda.

"We know where it is. But what do we do from there?" the siblings ask again

"That's where you come in. You can sneak inside by turning invisible isn't it? Prison isn't a place with so much light. And with current weather, that won't happen anytime soon which is why we should take this chance. First, find your friend. Then find way to cause ruckus without putting danger on yourself while escorting him to the exit. We'll get some horse for your friend to use to escape. Unless i missing something?"

Valdo raise his hand. "Anastasia can't do that. Her dress rustle around and noisy"

Of course the girl didn't take that kindly. "Say someone who always hissing behind people back acting like he's scary ghost! You'll probably got distracted for poking fun with guards than doing Minister Esmeralda works!"

And they quickly bicker like a kids, pointing out ridiculous thing that doesn't even that big of a deal.

"Okay enough both of you. Just get this work done. Remember, your friend life here is on the line...if you do well, i might consider reward you both with Plumpkino Sweets Roll if this inn serve one"

---

In the middle of pouring rain who somehow getting even worse as there's also strong wind blowing, two guards can be seen doing their best to do their job amidst the near deafening rain. The place did offer some mean of visibility but the torch alone didn't manage to lighten up the whole place. It is when the door suddenly slammed open as the wind current getting strong. One guard told his companion to close it for them, as much as he hate it because it would be hard to close the door with such wind going on. Neither do they know if they look down below, there's two footsteps going inside the building.

Thanks to the pouring rain, the Leech duo hissing were muffled. Its part of their nature whenever they stalk or preying on someone. While it might give away their position, it is the first warning to the people who wander too deep in their domain. Of course the siblings do their best to not let those noise become their demise. The guards doesn't seems to have silver weapon with them. But it doesn't mean that they can't feel any pain despite being an near immortal being. But what make thing a bit dicey is they tend to speak up when they were supposed to be hiding.

"Agh! Your rustling dress gonna blow our cover!" said Valdo

"Your hissing also very loud yourself!" Anastasia retort

"Who's there!"

Realizing they messed up, they rely on darkness to hide themselves completely. While it make them invisible, their presence still exist and can still bumped by anyone who pass them by. At the time the guards coming to the source of the voice, he heard a low hiss but can't say it is really what he heard as the rain didn't help his bearing about his surrounding. As luck would have it, Anastasia dress happen to brush his feet, almost causing him to trip.

"Whoa, the wind sure are strong even inside here..." said the guard before he pass by them.

Resuming their plan, they walk amidst dark corner to another only to find the path splitting up. In every case, splitting up might be better option but seeing these duo are still immature at heart, they stick with each other and move on. Eventually, they manage to locate their friend. But only to find his clothing. And inside the cell, is a knocked off guard without uniform whatsoever. 

"Did minister Esmeralda said something if this happen?" ask Valdo

"She don't. But what should we do now?" ask Anastasia

---

In the middle of the pouring rain, Esmeralda and the rest of the party manage to get themselves a horse to be used for the escapee. However while in the middle of it, one man shove her and try to steal the horse off them. Her companion and Jill quickly jump into action with this man who turn out to be a guards. Were they caught red-handed? As far as Esmeralda care, she can say they didn't. But its a bit odd for her to see a guard making an attempt to steal a horse. If he's truly a guard, he would shout and stop them with the tip of his weapon. But he's not. And when he do, his weapon are...out of this world. The shape, the sharpness, it was never like she seen before. 

"Careful you two. This man seems to know what he doing" said Esmeralda as she also draw her weapon.

The fight in the rain not only limiting their mobility but also their vision. Yet for some reason, the guards only use the back end of its sword which happen to be blunt. Clearly this guard are attempting to immobilize them than end their life and off with it. 

"Esmeralda! Get the horse to the prison! We got this! If Valdo and Anastasia is as good as you claim them to be, they probably on their way out right now!" said her companion.

And she do just that. Her companion fight along with Jill but even with those number, they still struggle to knock this man down. In the end, they drop their weapon due to exhaustion and the beating from that back of this guards sword.

"Damn rain! I think you guys didn't hear me to hold your weapon!" said the guards "Did you guys said Valdo and Anastasia?"

"What!?" Jill shouted since the rain isn't helping their hearing

"Anastasia! And! Valdo! Were they happen to have fangs on them?"

"Yes. Why do you care?"

"I'm their friend. Did you happen to be their companion?"

"We are. Who on earth are you!?"

"I'm Zevier. I just escape from the prison. Where are those two?"

Sensing they know where this going, the duo quickly stand up in a hurry knowing their companion just put themselves in danger for nothing.

"ESMERALDA/MINISTER!!"

---

The guards can be seen doing their job but the sounds of rain put them in rather sleepy mood. One of them even can be seen with their helm looking down. Before his companion clank his helmet to wake him up. But of course he would go back to the dreamy land again. But this time, the door once again slammed open. Not by the wind. But the trio who happen to be Esmeralda companion, Jill, and this Zevier guy. Before they can react, the guard quickly got knocked down as they make their way to where Zevier used to be held. If anything, those Leech duo might still be there, thinking. 

"They always do that. When they can't find the solution o the problem, they talk it out for day with each other. I remember the first time i met them, i distract them with joke saying that if my blood taste like lettuce, would they still obliged to drain every drop of my blood? And they stand there, bickering for two day straight about it. So yes, i bet they still standing there bickering" said Zevier.

And true to his words, they can find an empty space where there's voice in the corner but no one is there. 

"Hey you both. I thought you said you're grown adult by now. You going to freak people out for talking while being invisible like that you know. And Valdo, your hissing a bit loud back there"

"I told you! You're- Zevier! See? I told you we going to find him if we just wait!" said Anastasia

"I don't know what you both planning but have you seen Esmeralda? We thought she would be out there waiting but all we can find is the horse under the roof outside but she's not there..." said the minister companion

"We don't. We just stand here waiting as Anastasia suggested" said Valdo

"But we do heard this big slam of a door. We brush it aside as lightning" said Anastasia

"That would be us" said Jill

"Is that the only thing you heard?" ask Zevier

"Yes. And few of clashing swords. We thought its just another guard practicing"

Zevier shake his head. "That might be your companion, We don't come here without much a scuffle. Come on, she might be held in one cell or another!"

But by the time they going to find out, the guards is already on high alert. They have to make way through while looking for Esmeralda. It is when this moment they can see how the Leech sibling fight and suffice to say, they can go for brutal killings if they want to, but they didn't. It make their work easy at least. By the time they find her, she's at the underground room, chained and seems to get herself beaten up recently. They don't have luxury to ask question right now as they need to get out from here. 

"Not the inn! We have to get out this city now! They know who i am. They probably inform the knights to arrest me for the rebellion!" she said as she seems to hold her pain.

"But minister with your condition-"

"They gonna have my head if we delay! Come on! And who is this fellow?"

"I'm Zevier. Your companion told me what you actually planned. Sorry to cause a stir in your plan but i'll apologize properly once we're safe" 

They make their way out from that prison and once they're outside, they wonder if there's something they can use. Esmeralda point out a wagon. "Valdo, Anastasia...remember that time we play Knights and Horses?"

"Sure do. But you forbid us doing it with wagon since its dangerous..." said the duo in unison

"I allow it for now. Drag those wagon here for us to ride on, and run as fast as you can"

"But running fast are cheating. Those guards won't stand a chance" said Anastasia who for whatever reason think those guard chasing them for fun

"Then how about doing it while avoiding any crashes? Remember, i still promise you both Plumpkino Sweets"

"You promise!?" they ask in unison, behind them, guards are coming at them with their pointy weapon aimed at them.

"I promise!"

And they quickly do what she asked. The Leech duo now act like they are the two horse dragging a wagon. They all quickly get on it and told the duo to dash off to the city exit. Leaving the guards baffled with what they just see. They went off toward the forest path, perhaps they would find village at the end of the road or they have to make camp with whatever they got at hand as they leave most of their stuff at the inn. It is when the Leech duo feel they run away from the city far enough is when they decide to stop. Looking at their surrounding, they realize they still in the forest. They had no choice but having themselves sleep under the stars tonight in...

Ilmos Forest, Western Path