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Chapter Text

A very, very long time ago there was a kingdom known for its generous hospitality. Even though there were two kings or queens to rule the entire land, they were beloved by the people. Rumors spread of their kings and queens to be of celestial descent, but no one ever could guess the truth about their heritance. Over centuries the kingdom of twilight as it was known among prospered and forged treaties of peace and trading permissions between the neighboring countries. But suddenly during the reign of Skiadrum, the Shadow Dragon and of Weisslogia, the White Dragon everything started to collapse within a mere hour. Unknowingly a group of assassins snuck into the castle located in Lumin, the capital town of Weisslogias part of the kingdom. At the same time in Umbria the entire royal family and their servants were brutally slain. No one within the civil population knew about the survival of the two crown princes nor that they were wanted by the new rulers.

~~*~~*~~*~~

Near a small village called Cobalt a young boy stood at the branch of a sturdy old willow, staring into the creek flowing steadily its path aside the tree. Actually, he has no clue at all about him being of royal blood. Currently he lives here together with his big brother as well their assigned caretaker. All he cares about is to be as strong as his brother. One day he’s going to achieve this goal, but for now he tries to satisfy his huge curiosity about how the world is actually working. With a mischievous glint he spots a fish and as he jumps now into the creek, he barely misses his chosen target. “Lector-san, what are you doing again?” is he hearing the voice of their caretaker as he steps out of the water, clinging onto the fish he just caught and he only grins at her.

“I saved us dinner” is simply his response while a sheepish grin appears on his lips. “Sometimes you’re just as reckless as Sting-san” is she only responding while he shakes a bit of the water off and approaches her. Milenka – that’s the name of their caretaker – was originally assigned to be his wet-nurse. But after the horrific events regarding the death of King Weisslogia and his wife, she simply decided to bring the two of them far away from Lumin. He – Lector - is a stout boy with maroon colored hair standing away into every direction and a constant sparkle in his navy-gray eyes. Even Sting, his big brother assumes he might take after one of their ancestors of the early time. All he knows about his parents are the stories Milenka tells him about how fair and generous and gracious they were.

Right as he walks back together with Milenka to the cottage they live in, he notices a blond boy sitting at the stone wall and directing his gaze towards the evening sky. “Nice catch, Lector” is he right now hearing Sting say to him as he approaches his big brother and a gentle smile is shown to him. “I simply followed your advice” is he replying as Milenka brings the fish now inside and he decides to sit down right next to his brother. Every time he gazes at him, he clearly notices the signs of the white dragon passed on to Sting. Then a blurred picture emerges in front of his inner eye when he tries to picture how the great king Weisslogia might have looked like, especially after he had listened to one of Milenkas stories. With a smile Sting just unravels the maroon strands of him, then he looks at him and notices an impression he’d never seen on Stings face before.

“In a few days we’ll know”

“B-but what are we gonna do, Sting-kun?”

“Right now, I don’t possess the strength yet alone the knowledge to take on the one who’s behind the murder of our parents. But one day I’ll be strong enough to take back what is rightfully ours, Lector”

is he hearing his brother now saying, a certain feral spark appearing within the sapphire-blue orbs of Sting. He quickly nods while still looking at his brother. Only the true heir to the throne of Lumin will show the power of a dragon once they reach the age of twelve years. Therefore, he has just as Sting mixed feelings about this day to appear. What will happen to them, should any of the villagers catch wind about Sting and him being actually the surviving members of the Eucliffe-family? Will Milenka be still able to guide and protect them? What about the current ruler over the nation of light, will he start to search and capture them? Do they have to flee into one of the neighboring realms? A deep sigh escapes his lips as all these questions run through his head. Hopefully, Sting and him are able to continue their life in this nice little village for a little while longer. But fate as something different in store for them.

Chapter Text

[Rogues POV]

The memories of that particular day still haunt him. Ul Milkovich, the Fullbusters and even the Vastias had willingly stayed behind in order for him and his parents to escape. His mother only passed away minutes after finding shelter at a remote clearing outside the capital city after giving birth to Frosch, his little sister. His father Skiadrum may show weak signs of being alive after the brutal onslaught, but the medic taking care of him told him he might never awake again. Only weeks later after they found an abandoned building complex in order to seek shelter and stay hidden, the identity of the usurper was made public. None other than the hideous Lady Yamanaka is responsible for this horrific attack. She and her favored son are currently in charge for the suffering of the entire population his father used to govern in a strict, yet polite manner.

Couple of days after his 12^th birthday a group of shinobi join his cause led by a man around his age named Dobengal. Around this time, he started also to show the first signs of being related to his draconic ancestors. Another support is coming in from the head of the sanctuary in the so called Miramaris Area. Even though the monks and nuns living and praying there are all against any form of violence, he and the few men willing to follow his lead get vital information from travelling priests so they’re able to outwit the troups of Lady Yamanaka. One of the advanced nuns even became a good friend of Frosch and him: Yukino Aguria. Sometimes, when she’s able to go on a travel, she seeks them out and helps them where she can. Therefore, he is actually grateful, that Gray Fullbuster, Lyon Vastia and Ultear Milkovich remain at Frosch and his side. Not only as guards as they were trained for by their parents, but also as friends and allies he just values to have around.

Right now, encampment is made within a high mountain range along the border towards the Iron Realm. They just agreed this is the best region in order for him to train the surfacing powers of a dragon while staying out of sight for the current ruler. Besides, not far from where their actual encampment is build up lays a small village of mages filled with the knowledge of time and space. Ultear plans on staying and learning at this place. Even Gray and Lyon are eager to train at the top of the always snow-covered top of the mountain range what Ul had started to teach them regarding Ice-Make Magic. Right now, all his focus is on becoming stronger and to get revenge on those individuals, who killed his parents and robbed him of the throne.

~~*~~*~~*~~

Firis Reah Othilie Serene Cecilia Hestia Cheney. These are his sisters real first names. But in order to make it simpler for her to adjust towards her given name he simply shortened it to Frosch. Everyone around quickly adapted into naming her this way, even the former minister Batho who fled with them up into the mountain range. While he is like Gray, Lyon and Ultear focused on training his sister remains behind at the encampment. There she is taught how to read and write, but also studying everything she needs to know as crown princess.

Batho took it on him to teach her in person after Frosch complained about being a burden to everyone. Therefore, she is also taught healing and support magic. This way her wish is fulfilled on becoming someone to be of help not only towards her brother and their friends, but also for their people. A year later even the renowned mage Strago decided to join their cause and became therefore next to Batho a liable teacher for Frosch.

~~*~~*~~*~~

Right as he turns sixteen the uninventable happens. Skiadrum, the former king is shortly awake only to pass away within minutes after addressing Frosch, who sat the entire time next to his bed. Pain sores through his body as he watches clad in silence how his little sister is now crying. Actually, this is double the hardship for her since Frosch never had the chance to get to know her parents at all. His own memories of the time spent with his parents might be blurry, but of the one thing he’s reminded while looking at the dead body of his father is the kindness shown to everyone. “Your highness” is he now addressed, making him the more aware of him now being the official new king of their nation. “Inform the revered mother, Skiadrum is on his way” is all he says in this moment as he picks up a trusted scent right behind the man standing in front of him.

“Rogue-sama, my condolences. I’ll organize everything needed for the burial at the sacred mausoleum of your family” is Yukino now saying, as she walks now to Frosch in order to console her and with a short nod he leaves the room. When and how did she appear at this encampment? At least someone he can trust is here to help him with the ceremony. But afterwards he’ll have to think about where to leave Frosch. Maybe he can persuade the revered mother for her to stay with Yukino at the sanctuary. Because he already decided not to put his little sister in harms way. She is everything left of his family. Even if his fate is to die out on the battlefield, at least Frosch would still be there to continue their bloodline.

Chapter Text

‘Wide fields and lush meadows are the first to be noticed when visiting this part of the nation. Streams clear as crystal full with aquatic life show how much these people of this country care about their nature. More towards the east, at the begin of the area governed by the Shadow Dragons are a series of small marshes building the natural border. In the northeast of this country is a towering mountain range often covered by ice & snow most of the year separating the Realm of Twilight from the closest neighboring country the Iron Realm. Southeast lies a series of settlements were the people are skilled in fishing within the rough sea. Even in the from the White Dragons governed area are skilled fishermen at home and provide the entire nation with fresh seafood.’

A deep sigh escapes his lips as he goes through this text. Right now, he’s actually bored. Since his brother and him were found by a marshal serving Jiemma Orland they are now kind of imprisoned at the castle of Lumin. While Sting is undergoing the protocol of what to know and what to do as future king, he is advised to undergo a similar education. Being free and unbound kinda suits both of them more than having to follow given orders and strict protocols. What would he do to trade back those carefree days spent at Milenkas simple hut at the country-side? As he recounts it’s exact three years ago, they were brought back here into the city. Another sigh escapes him as he notices the stack of thick books in front of him assigned to be read and therefore, he simply decides to skip this lesson.

Once he makes such decisions, he either heads towards the stables to see how the horses are doing, into the garden or lately he tries out his skill to fly. When he one day after a heavy rainstorm slipped from one of the roofs of the towers, he discovered this practical skill. Since then he trains on his own in secret only to tell his brother about him being able to be airborne. Since staying at the country-side had made him focus on helping out where ever help is needed, he actually enjoys working with the gardeners and the stable-boys. In return he learns a few interesting things about their mother, the late queen. Like how she was in charge of keeping the gardens in and around the castle natural. She even made sure the parks within the capital city are tended to by the royal gardeners and of the citizens in equal parts.

~~*~~*~~*~~

“It’s been a while, Sting Eucliffe” is he now picking up a voice that is quite familiar to him and right as he turns around a smile appears on his lips. “I’m truly glad to see you in one piece, Rufus” is his answer as he approaches the other blond and hugs him shortly. The Lore family worked as advisor for every king or queen sprouting from the Eucliffe family for centuries. Therefore, it was clear, that once he – Sting Eucliffe – was named to be the heir to the throne Rufus would take in the position as advisor. “My condolences for what happened to your parents” are now both saying at the same time and he rubs his neck with his hand.

“Master Jiemma filled me in about what happened that particular night”

“Then…?”

“He wanted me to return and fulfill my role”

is Rufus simply answering him now as they head now inwards together. For a short moment silence is around them. “E-Erza-san” is he now almost shouting as he just notices a familiar face with scarlet red hair inside the courtyard. Even if he had still been a small child, the memory of Erza Scarlet is still present. Named young woman turns into their direction and a smile rests on his lips. “It’s truly good to have the two of you around” is he saying and right there he’s well aware of his current situation. The daughter of the famous Crimson General Eileen Belsarion, Erza Scarlet and the son of the sage Remion Lore, Rufus Lore had been chosen by the late king Weisslogia to support him in his duties as king.

“General Orland ordered me to return. Said you’re alive” is Erza stating right now as the three of them lean now against the stone wall. Jiemma Orland had worked as Vice-General under his father until the tragic event happened. Even though he should be despising the man, Lector and him had learned as to how Jiemma keeps playing the deceiving man only in order to restore the line of kings originating from the Eucliffe family. “If it weren’t for Master Jiemma, Lumin be in utter chaos” is his response right now while crossing his arms and a serious expression rests on his face.

“Minerva is still around?”

“Actually, haven’t seen her”

“Me neither”

are both young men now answering Erza and a short silence surrounds them. Mentally, he makes a note to figure out who Minerva is since he never met her since his arrival.

~~*~~*~~*~~

At one night, Jiemma summons them into his study. There he notices a slender, handsome, dark-haired woman standing a bit behind Jiemma. A short gaze towards Erza and as she nods, he quickly understands who this young woman is. Even Lector was asked to appear. In the past six years the two of them had learned quite a bit about their heritage and the tasks they have still to fulfill. “Erza, Minerva, Rufus; time is scarce. I hereby assign you to protect the king and the crown prince by leading them to the sanctuary” are they now hearing Jiemmas voice and for a short moment he’s puzzled. Why is he picking up faint signs of resign and of fear? No way, Jiemma Orland never showed any kind of fear at all.

“Master…” is he stating right now, but the gaze he receives right now tells enough to him.

“What shall we tell if we are stopped at the border?”

“That you accompany the heir of the Eucliffe-family to meet up with his fiancé”

is Jiemma simply answering the question of Rufus. Slowly, but surely, he starts to understand the plan. During the time Lector and him stayed here he got more and more aware of the hidden threat Jiemma tried to shield them from. “Sting-kun, is it…?” is Lector now whispering to him and he quickly nods.

“Leave now while it’s night” are they now receiving the order and he bows before Jiemma, then them five are heading over to the stables. Lector is happy to see one of the stable boys he befriended and tells him only they need to head out right on the spot. So once the horses are ready, Lector is given a bag and he’s seeing some tears gathering in his brother’s eyes. Since the hoofs of the horses are covered with straw and linen in order to dampen the noise of their hoofs, they are able to leave Lumin through the small gate only merchants use in the early morning hours to get into the city. Hours later they decide to rest at an inn.

~~*~~*~~*~~

“Before we enter the inn, let me do the talking” is Rufus now suggesting while looking at everyone. Somehow the blond seems to be aware of a fact he actually spaces out on. A short nod, then they enter the inn together. While Rufus is managing everything, he sits down at a table with Erza, Minerva and Lector. With a short nod he signs this way his thanks as a lady serves them bowls with rice, soup and steamed vegetables. Deep inside he knows not to be too picky with food since Lector and him grew up with just these things to eat what they got served right now. Ok, sometimes his little brother managed to catch a fish or he ended up catching rabbits with the boys of the farmers in order to add some meat to their meals. But most of the time they had rice and vegetables on their table.

While another lady serves them tea, he suddenly picks up a hushed conversation from the table next to them.

“His Highness is in Lumin, preparing everything for her Majesty to arrive”

“Really? What about the rebels still present in and around the city?”

“I won’t pardon them if they bump into his Highness. Rumors say he wiped out 250 rebels with a wink of his hand”

“What a monster”

is the one soldier replying and everyone on the other table starts now to laugh. Slightly biting his bottom lip, he starts to get the picture. Jiemma somehow sensed this scenario to happen. That’s why he insisted for them to leave during the night, where Lector and him could travel in the cover of darkness.

“Sting-kun, you’re all-right?”

“I just need some fresh air”

is he simply answering, brushing through the maroon hair of his brother, then he steps outside the inn. His keen senses already informed him about Erzas presence.

“It’s about what these soldiers were talking about, am I right?”

“Yeah…”

is his short response while looking at his trusted friend while doing some stretching.

“Wasn’t his name Rogue?”

“Rogue, son of Skiadrum, heir to the throne of Umbris”

is he saying and a short smile appears on his lips. So Erza did remember right about the boy in his age, that had been present during an important meeting between his father and Skiadrum. All he wished back then was for them to be friends so that they could work as a team in order to keep the level of prosperity in both parts of this thriving nation. But the last thing he had learned about Rogue during his stay under Jiemmas guidance is the fact, that Skiadrum and everyone else working for him was assassinated.

“Let be on our toes for now, Sting” is she now saying to him and he nods. Erza is right. Until they have no clues about whom these soldiers were actually talking about it be best for him to stay on a low profile. So that Lector stays save and of course his friends.

Chapter Text

[Rogues POV]

Deep inside he’s well aware of leaving Frosch alone. But right now, he needs to become stronger. All his thoughts right now are directed on mastering those spells that are still locked within his own soul. He didn’t know about their existence before, but once Batho had showed him an array of documents mentioning high-tier spells created by each Shadow Dragon in their own unique way the path became clear for him. But there is one more thing he learned from the wise man working decades as minister for his father. That even Frosch will unlock her own array of spells only she is capable to wield in due time.

~~*~~*~~*~~

In the meantime, Frosch is organizing the encampment by heading down to the nearest villages. There she tends to the sick & wounded, while in return she brings back much needed materials such as food, leather, straw, rice, soy paste, bean paste, oil and other things. Most of the time two guards are with her as well her two maids Mayu and Hiromi. Last month everyone within the encampment had to move out in order to prevent one of the villages to be crushed by a landslide. Lucky for them Ultear returned from her own training and helped out. Then two days later even Lyon and Gray returned. Now Frosch is only waiting for Rogue to return.

Sadly, her teacher for magic, Strago, passed away of a natural cause a day prior to the return of the trusted friends and bodyguards of her family. Still, Frosch refuses to give up. Early in the morning she sneaks out in order to train her new-found skill in secret. If it weren’t for that landslide, she’d never discovered it in the first place – the ability to fly. Not even Dobengal and Kaya with whom she trains hand-to-hand combat lately is she telling about this skill. Frosch is determined to master this ability only in order to tell Rogue about it. Gray, Ultear and Lyon included. But next to her being able to fly another skill is starting to awake within her soul. One, only the scholars of old would be able to name.

~~*~~*~~*~~

“We should leave, otherwise we’re all done for” is Batho stating after delivering a report on their current situation regarding the amount of food, water and other necessary things to provide. “It could snow any day from now” is she now picking up Lyons concern and absorbed into her thoughts she sits between Ultear and Gray. “We wait until night breaks in. If Rogue isn’t back by then, the entire encampment will leave first thing in the morning” is now Grays statement and a sigh of relieve escapes her lips. During all these years of hiding Ultear, Gray and Lyon truly became a part of family not only for Rogue, but for Frosch as well.

“Please, Batho-san” is the only thing she says right now and the wise old man only nods. “Should his Majesty not return from his training by nightfall, the order to move out is given” is Batho now answering, then she sits together with Gray, Lyon and Ultear in the small hut there currently in.

“You did great, Frosch” is she now getting a compliment from Lyon and a shy smile appears on her lips. So far, there hadn’t been a true opportunity for her to smile or laugh genuinely. Only if Yukino stopped by to visit them. But being with Rogue, Gray, Lyon and Ultear allows her to respond with a smile. “Even though I was told to focus more on calligraphy, weaving and sewing; I learned to defend myself with the tools I have easy access too” is Frosch now saying, with a certain determination in her eyes. “Don’t let Rogue hear that” is Gray saying half-jokingly to her while patting her head and a genuine smile rests now on her lips.

~~*~~*~~*~~

Close to nightfall he makes it to the encampment. “Rogue” is he picking up the one voice he actually missed to hear. That of Frosch. A slender figure with emerald shoulder-long hair wearing a rustic kimono as any farmer’s child would wear in this region is embracing him now and if he has to be honest to himself, he’s surprised how much Frosch has grown in the time after Skiadrum, the former king, had passed away. “I’m back” is he simply answering by picking her up. Sudden concern rises inside of him as he notices how light Frosch actually is. Even though she looks quite healthy, somehow, he starts to wonder if she had enough to eat.

“Yo, Rogue” is Gray now greeting him as he’s now lead by Frosch to a hut where their friends are. With a short bow she apologizes, then leaves only to return minutes later with Batho and Dobengal. “I’ve organized a bath for you, Rogue. So, after this meeting you can take one and enjoy dinner” is Frosch telling him, nods shortly, then he looks at the former minister and the leader of the shinobi unit, with whom he’s now befriended. He notices how Frosch leaves now once more, most likely due to the respect she has towards Batho. In short terms he learns about what happened while the four of them were away for training.

“If it weren’t for Lady Frosch’s quick thinking, the troops would’ve rebelled a week after Lord Skiadrums funeral. It was her idea to ask the people living here on this mountain range to help us out” is Batho now explaining and a proud smile rests now not only on his lips, but also on that of Gray and Ultear. “It’s safe to say, Frosch is taking after her mother” is Ultear now saying, reminding him that their mother was a renowned Miko before marrying Skiadrum. “Yeah, you’re right” is he saying, then he’s getting up in order to get a bath before having dinner together with Frosch and his friends.

~~*~~*~~*~~

“I don’t want to leave you behind” is Frosch stating with tears in her eyes as Batho, Lady Shouji and other members of their troop contingent decide to stay behind. It is decided to head to the Morrigan Woods. A place rumored to be haunted. Besides, somewhere deep within lays a hidden fortress build by their ancestor Kagemori. “Don’t cry about us old people. Mayu and Hiromi will be with you, Lady Frosch” is she receiving the answer from Lady Shouji, the one responsible for all the maids and servants in the Cheney-household for decades.

“It was truly an honor serving you, your Majesty” are they now hearing this one sentence and Frosch’s tears become more. How many more people does she have to see pass away? How many more good-byes? While Hiromi guides her to a cream-colored horse, he bows in front of the volunteers in order to pay his respect, then he jumps into the saddle of a black horse and gives the signal to move out. This was their longest stay so far. He knows, sooner or later Lady Yamanaka will learn about him – Rogue Cheney – to be still alive and out for a vengeance.

~~*~~*~~*~~

As they travel eastward, some paths are blocked by rocks and fallen trees due to heavy rainstorms. No one had a clue about the current situation away from the mountain range. Besides, at a small town located on a hill they are able to seek shelter from the rain and the strong wind. “We had no warning of the upcoming storm” is a merchant stating to him as he asks if help is needed. Some of the soldiers and the shinobi work together with the settlers of this town to avoid it being hit by the near-by creek having more water than usual. Frosch, Ultear and some of their servants help where they can within the town. During the night he takes next to Gray, Lyon and Dobengal the duty to watch if the water-level is still rising or dropping. For an entire week this is their task and in return the settlers are willed to aid him in his course.

Merchants are hired to send provisions to a village close to the outskirts of the Morrigan Woods. Even a swift messenger is sent to this particular village, since the mayor is protecting the key to the hidden fortress. The entire area is hit with damages from not only the storm but also from minor flooding from creeks and streams. Before heading towards Morrigan Wood he assigns personally a handful of men and women to remain here and help with rebuilding the farms and villages. Also, by doing so he gains more respect from the civilization situated in this area.

Because, deep inside he simply follows what his father would’ve done in such a situation. To be present and offer help, where help is truly needed.

~~*~~*~~*~~

Slightly humming she fixes her hair with two ivory colored barrettes while staring at her reflection in the bronze mirror. Servants are hustling around the castle to keep it clean while she heads now towards the throne room wearing an opulent kimono in bright red color with canaries stitched in gold onto it. Her obi is a bit decent, still the ash-color of the obi tells this woman loves to wear luxurious things. For years she had planned to pay back the humiliation she suffered while having to live together with her son in exile. Now she finally achieved what she dreamed for. Being in charge of the nation of Twilight.

But there is one thing concerning her. Skiadrums heir wasn’t among the corpses when she declared this castle to be hers. Only thanks to her son she knows about a boy with pitch-black hair and ruby-red eyes to be present on the day of the brutal onslaught. Therefore, she told her son he can do whatever he pleases towards this offspring as long as they remain in charge of the entire nation. “Lady Yamanaka, the traitor is dead” is she hearing a message allowing her to smile. In order to gain control over Lumin she bribed the Vice-General Jiemma Orland to assassinate the entire Eucliffe-family. In return he could have remained as governor working for her, but as some point this man seemed to have a change of heart.

“What about the boys he took under his care?” is she asking in a sharp tone while gazing in an icy manner at the messenger. “G-gone” is she hearing right now and she bites her bottom lip. “Then find them, you imbecils” is she ordering right now, throwing her fan to the floor and anger is flickering within her amber-colored eyes. The sooner these obstacles are removed, the sooner she’s able to be crowned queen of the entire nation.

Chapter Text

“My Lord, you should take the hidden path. It’s only 500 yards away from here on the left side of the road” is the wife of the inn-keeper telling him in almost a whisper as they just receive their breakfast. Obviously, she and her husband somehow noticed who he really is. A short nod follows, then he takes a sip from his tea as he watches the soldiers from last night to head out. Before going to bed the decision was made to continue their journey off the road in order to minimize the risk of being discovered. Right now, he’s lucky Rufus had introduced them with false identities, otherwise the five of them would be in big trouble right now.

~~*~~*~~*~~

Right now, they find themselves in a wooded area after following the advice of the inn-keeper’s wife. Somehow, it feels like this forest is not that dense at first glance. But little do they know about this being a sacred area only the female heirs of the Eucliffe-family are responsible for tending and protecting. Therefore, among the farmers and merchants this area is known as the Lost Woods. “Who dares to enter?” are they now picking up a voice and he doesn’t feel threatened at all. More as if someone familiar is reaching out to him. “Sting Eucliffe, son of Weisslogia and his brother Lector” is he stating right now, shortly looking to Erza, Rufus and Minerva.

The opaque silhouette of a young woman appears now and he is able to pick up the trusted scent of a dragon, a white dragon in particular. “Don’t you know this is sacred ground, son of Weisslogia? Only women are allowed to enter” is this being now saying to them and he glances over to Rufus since he hopes his friend might know about this order. “The soon to be king and the crown-prince are sadly unaware of such order since they had to stay in hiding for a long time” is Rufus now starting to explain while bowing in front of the form of a young woman to show his respect.

Since his advisor and best friend is able to address the issue, only Erza and Minerva are hereby allowed to walk freely. Lector, Rufus and himself agreed to be led blindfolded through the forest without angering the protective spirit of this place. Therefore, it takes a while to cross since the two women are responsible for bringing them out safely.

~~*~~*~~*~~

Being now for days on the road since Jiemma had assigned Erza and Minerva to bring him as far away from Lumin as possible, he begins to wonder if the son of Skiadrum is in a similar situation as himself and if he is aiding them should they be able to reach the territory governed by the Shadow Dragons for centuries. A vague memory of a boy with pitch-black hair and ruby-red eyes is starting to show up while he sleeps. For now, he decides to keep it for himself until he’s sure. “It seems we are close to a river” is Minerva saying while they continue downhill a path meandering through green meadows.

“That can only be the Lethe River” is Lector now explaining with a proud glance shimmering in his eyes and a smile rests now on his lips. The only untamed river in the entire nation, causing swift currents so strong that crossing the river is actually impossible. Two times a year the fleet river seems to calm down a bit so that farmers are able to use mobile bridges in order to cross the shores in order to tend to their fields. But lately, the stream is so fast and so strong it means sheer death if anyone dares to cross.

“So, what do we do now?”
“I say we follow the length of the river downstream”

is Erza simply suggesting as they reach the shore clad in shiny black stone. The usually clear water is gushing in white foam with a greenish tint and slight spray of river water is hitting their faces due to the fine breeze coming from northeast.

For hours they follow as far as they are able, then Lector starts to show them his skill by heading up into the sky with bright white wings appearing on his back. “Not far from here is a house, maybe we can spend the night there” is Lector just saying to them, pointing into the direction where he had spotted named house. Then all of a sudden, shouts are to be heard close by the river and before any of them could react, Lector dives into the rapid stream picking up two children. These two must have fallen or slipped into the river.

Once his brother lands at the grassy patch they are standing on Minerva and Erza quickly begin to cover these children in their cloaks. “That will be more than useful” is he saying with a smile, brushing through the wet maroon hair of his brother and gazes at the two children. Erza, Minerva and Lector decide to bring them to the house while Rufus and himself will stay over night outside at a clearing.

~~*~~*~~*~~

The father of the two children is more than thankful for their rescue and therefore insist for Erza, Minerva and Lector to join dinner. Even a bath is organized for them. Shortly after everyone went to sleep, the maroon haired boy is getting up and starts to look around. In a shelf he finds a folded map and some scrolls igniting his curiosity. Since he can’t use light-based magic like his brother the smart boy simply decides to take them with some of what is left from dinner and sneaks out of the house. Due to the enhanced skill of smell he’s able to find the place where Rufus and his brother are currently staying at.

“Here” is he simply saying as he hands the bread, fruits and dried meat to his brother and their advisor, then he sits down next to them. “Did you learn something interesting, Lector?” is Rufus asking him while biting into an apple and with a nod he hands him the map as well the scrolls. “This might come in handy for sure” is his brother saying right now while providing more light by activating White Dragon Slayer magic within his right hand. Rufus only nods, studies both the map and the scrolls while showing a thoughtful expression. “You better return them to their owner, Lector. I’ve memorized every tiny detail” is the blond advisor now stating, then he leaves with a short nod back towards the house.

“You’re cautious, that is more than needed in these times. But your friends could’ve stayed here too” is the father of the rescued children just saying to him once he enters the main room and for a short moment, he’s actually feeling caught. “I-I’m sorry, it’s just that…” is he starting to say in an apologetic way while dropping his gaze towards the floor. Right as he feels a hand on his head, he directs his gaze at the man and is actually surprised to see him smile. He starts to feel, that this man does understand as to why he acts as he does right now. “Go to bed and get some sleep” is he told now, nods only and returns to the offered bed.

~~*~~*~~*~~

[Rogues POV]

Once they arrive at Morrin Village everyone can feel a certain tension in the air. With a sign of his hand his men agree to wait outside while Dobengal accompanies Gray, Lyon, Ultear, Frosch and him to see the mayor. The reason is simple. His plan is to send the shinobi unit first in order to assure the way into the Morrigan Woods is safe. Besides, he also plans on guiding any who want to from this village inside the hidden fortress his ancestor had built.

In short terms he learns of skirmishes in the near-by area instigated by the soldiers following Lady Yamanaka so they could spread terror and fear among the citizens. Forming a fist, he bites his bottom lip while listening closer to the news they receive. The fortress city Levian is now cut off due to their open resistance against the current leader. But one thing in particular makes this important port town steadfast: the position at the coast. Therefore, troops would have to cross the swampy area at the north and east of the town or come by sea in order to take in this city. At least the people living there and in the nearby area of Levian are for the time being safe from being oppressed. Besides, he remembers the treaty with the aquatic nation of Shurima with a similar town only a few miles away from Levian.

“Your Highness, it seems the traveling monks were right about you. I was told that one day you’d appear in this village in order to regain what the ancestors of the Cheney-family keep hidden within the Morrigan Woods” is the mayor now saying once they were given soup, pickled vegetables, some fish with rice and tea by the mayor’s wife and daughter. After the meal Dobengal apologizes, then he leaves the house of the mayor in order to scout the area. But they lay an offering of dried herbs at the entrance of the woods since the shinobi unit knows and treasures the local customs too.

A short nod from his side before he makes a sip from his tea and he starts to appreciate the bond his family has forged with the sanctuary over decades. It truly works into his hands that some of the still traveling monks are obviously spreading the news of him – Rogue Cheney, son of Skiadrum – to be still alive. “Gray, make sure a sylphjay arrives at Levian to inform them about our plan” is he saying once they leave the house, looks at his friend, then he walks with Frosch to the small shrine located right next to the mayor’s house.

~~*~~*~~*~~

At the next morning Sting and Rufus are inside the house and the have breakfast together. “Since crossing the river is too dangerous, I’ll show you a suitable way” is the man saying to them, whose children he had saved the day before. Unfortunately, he’s unable to use his skill to fly right now. Otherwise he might have tried to cross the Lethe River with his wings. Grateful as they are Minerva gives the received rations for their journey into each backpack, then they follow the man for a while away from the river until they reach a hill covered in broken rock.

“Centuries ago this path was known to peddlers and merchants of our nation. Nowadays it is now forgotten. Only a few are knowledgeable of its existence” do the receive the explanation and he actually wonders how such a connection ended up into the mists of time. “I can’t recall a cave on one of the maps Lector has shown to me” is Rufus saying once they had entered said cave after thanking again the farmer for his help and a thoughtful expression rests on his face. “What if these maps were drawn only recently? To be honest, the don’t look that old to me” is he simply stating right now while gazing at the advisor and friend of his big brother. “Lector has a point. If the path in front of us has faded out of the collective memory, then of course no one would know where to look for it” is now Erzas response and even Sting starts to nod in agreement.

Chapter Text

[Rogues POV]

After praying to the local deity at the small shrine together with Frosch and the mayor, he leaves now the village together with his troops and a great amount of the villagers. Only a handful of feisty young men insist on remaining within the village in order to protect it. Therefore, after speaking with Lyon, a small unit serving the silver-haired man is also ready to stay together with the volunteering villagers behind.

~~*~~*~~*~~

Within the dim lighted cave, they follow a path covered in moss, fern and rubble for hours now. Since he isn’t so sure about where to go, a decision is made to rest right next to a small stream they’ve found flowing inside the cave. “If I am right with my memory, we should head more towards the west. Then we might end up crossing the border easily without being noticed at all” is Rufus now saying as Erza fills up their water bottles at the stream. “Towards the west? Isn’t there the Morrigan Woods close by?” is Minerva now wanting to know since she had been in that area once.

“Yes, they are on the territory of the Shadow Dragons” is now the answer coming from the blond advisor as each of them takes their backpack after putting their refilled water bottles back into the backpack. At least now they know where they are hopefully heading. If they are lucky, maybe they encounter the one he hopes to meet – the son of Skiadrum. “But what if we end up who knows where within the Shadow Dragons territory?” is Lector now asking and actually the maroon-haired boy has his point.

Since no one alive made an actual map of this cave, what guarantee do they have of ending up at the point they hope to reach? “Lector has a point, what if we end up right into the arms of the enemy?” is Erza now stating and all of them stop. “Even though I hate to admit it, but we’re at a gamble right now” is only Rufus response as he draws his hat more into his face. The words of his friend and advisor make it clear enough for him. They need to stay sharp.

~~*~~*~~*~~

This cave is truly bigger than they’ve expected it to be. Besides, one wrong step and they end up in a myriad of hallways carved into the limestone by time and maybe organic sources. Three times they had to trace back their step since following these paths is proving trickier than thought. On some parts the ceiling collapsed and allowed them a glimpse towards the horizon. At other parts there is only a small strip of limestone remaining on the ground in order to cross and sometimes the gap was too big to be jumped over at the other side, therefore Lector had to rely on his new-found skill to fly in order to cross.

Exhausted they sit down next to an underground lake after having walked for hours straight. “Lector, we let the ladies take a bath first” is Rufus saying as he starts to walk to a patch of moss and grass. With a nod even the two brothers join him and find a rock big enough to stand behind so that Minerva and Erza could go into the clear water of the lake in order for them to get clean. As he gazes towards the stony ceiling, he notices moonlight seeping through cracks. Therefore, it is already night outside. “How long will it take for us to find an exit?” is Lector now wanting to know as he sits down on the patch of grass and moss with a pouting face.

“Even for me, a White Dragon it isn’t easy to figure out the right way” is he admitting right now as he pats Lectors head and looks right at him. The main reason for that is the stale flow of air and many parts are even too dark, so that the others have to rely on his magic to guide them. “But at least no one will find us here” is his brother now saying with a deep sigh.

~~*~~*~~*~~

At night Lector is still sleepy, when he is getting up in order to relieve himself. All off a sudden the maroon-haired boy is attacked by strange creatures and he runs as fast as he can in his exhausted state. “Sting-kun” is he calling chased by these weird creatures, stricken with fear.

With the light gathered within his palm the White Dragon Slayer manages to chase away the pursuers of his little brother and actually their companions Rufus, Erza and Minerva are astonished about what was after Lector. “Even though I don’t know their name, I’m aware of their nature. Parasites thriving in the dark and if they find a suitable host, they slip in through the bellybutton” is the dark-haired beauty now explaining to them. “Ah, did I forget to mention, that a man is like a Filet Mignon for these creatures?” is now coming from Minerva in a teasing manner towards Rufus and Sting as she notices Lectors still shocked features and smiles. Soon after the marron-haired boy calmed down, Minerva volunteers to stay guard while the others try to get some sleep.

~~*~~*~~*~~

[Rogues POV]

After being able to find the hidden fortress, he finds himself meditating at the shore of a lake providing this place with fresh water and fish. The villagers who joined them are placed into the deeper levels in order to protect them while the main force of soldiers remains at the three upper levels. “Rogue” is he picking up his sister’s voice clearly and he doesn’t need to open his eyes in order to realize she approaches him right now. “Can you please tell me anything about our father, please?” is her request right now as he now slowly opens his eyes. Frosch is standing beside him gazing at the surface of the lake with her shoulder-long hair bound by an indigo colored strip of cloth.

Again, he realizes how much Frosch suffers from having been unable to enjoy and spend time with their parents. Especially with their father Skiadrum, who had noticed Frosch as his daughter before taking his last breath. “Skiadrum was known to be a kind and wise king. He united a tribe of nomads during his first years as a king and granted them to govern the marsh lands in the east of our nation” is he now starting to say. Just now he has an idea. Maybe these nomads would support him in his effort to reclaim the throne and overthrow the usurper.

“What else?” is Frosch now wanting to now as she sits now down at the patch of grass right beside him. “As far as I know he was befriended with Weisslogia” is his response right now. It also makes it clear in front his eyes, that the White Dragon and his heir might be willed to help him should he be able to reach Lumin. But there is one thing making him bite his bottom lip. The heir of Weisslogia had been killed while he – Rogue Cheney – was still a small child. Therefore, he’s unaware of the two other sons of the bloodline within the Eucliffe – family and that the second son is now the official heir to the throne of Lumin. “If he’s a friend, shouldn’t we try to contact him and ask for help?” is now her question and deep inside he knows she’s right. Skiadrum raised him to always honor those close by, but also to show respect towards allies and cherish the knitted bonds of friendships.

~~*~~*~~*~~

Somehow, he feels like they aren’t moving towards the aimed goal at all. Being confronted with moss-covered cave walls is after a while indeed tiring on his mind. At a pathway that seems to lead them deeper into this natural cave he reacts too late as the ground collapses right underneath the feet of Erza, Minerva and Rufus. Sting manages to grab the blond advisor in time but together with the two ladies he manages to fall onto a bed out of moss and fern growing on a solid block of rock. “Let me fly you up” is his suggestion right now, actually blocking out that he almost used up his magic in order to use this ability.

“Go with Sting. We’ll find a way out of here” is Erza now saying to him as she is patting him on the head. “Don’t worry, we’re meeting up at the inn at the next village” is now coming in an encouraging tone from Minerva, looks at both of them, then he nods and uses the last bit of magic left to fly upwards to the part where Sting and Rufus are waiting. Deep inside he feels guilty for not being strong enough. But both ladies are right. They are capable enough to fight against soldiers and other dangerous creatures daring to block their way.

“What about Erza and Minerva?” is Rufus now asking him as he lands on the strip of earth and rock where his brother and the blond advisor are standing. “They try on their own to find a way out. We meet up with them at the inn at the next village” is he stating while focusing on his breathing. A short nod from both, then the decision is made to rest first, before continuing to walk the path they are on right now. As he almost drifts off into a light sleep, a slight breeze is tousling his maroon brown hair. “Sting-kun? Did do notice that just now?” is he wanting to know and his brother seems to focus on the direction from where the wind is coming.

“Rufus, watch over Lector” is he only hearing Stings response, then the White Dragon is gone for a while. Now that he is somewhat awake again, he can’t await what his big brother is able to figure out. Minutes later Sting returns with a certain flicker in his sapphire blue eyes. “I found a solid path turning left from here. That seems to be the source from where the wind is blowing” is he now hearing Stings explanation. One thing for sure to him. With exchange of fresh air an entrance is for sure not far away.

~~*~~*~~*~~

It is slightly foggy and cool once they are out of the cave system. Quickly he picks up the scent of a dense, luscious and alive forest. While he gazes around the mound the path ins leading into, the sound of birds awaking from their slumber is to be heard clearly in the air. “I wonder where we are” is Rufus now saying as he follows now Lector and him deeper into the forest clad into the colors of autumn. “All I sense right now are the presence of the animals of this forest” is his response while he stays cautious. Who knows whom they encounter at such a landscape?

Once they reach a bit deeper into the forest, he’s on alert but too late. A group of men clad into the matching colors of the foliage surrounds them and in order to protect his brother, he signs Lector to stay close behind him.

“It seems we picked up spies”
“No, we’re travelers. Actually, we got lost on our way to the next village”

is Rufus now trying to convince the group of men, but it fails. Before he knows, Lector, Rufus and him are blindfolded and tied to each other. Then they are led by these men obviously much deeper into the forest. Even though he can’t see where they are taken, he can still rely on his enhanced sense of hearing and smell.

‘Charcoal fire, water and a lot of people. We are brought to a place that is to kept secret at all costs’ is his thought after they are approaching a place where all three of them can feel once more solid rock under their feet. “Wait here, the General will clear who you are and your agenda” is one of the men telling them after they are freed from their restraint and find themselves standing at a room clad in dark rock with a very small inlet for air. Now that he’s inside wherever they landed, he senses mostly the presence of normal human beings. Low ranking soldiers, farmers or even refugees that sought shelter at this place.

“Who dares to trespass into the realm of our king?” is a voice now directed to them as the door of the room is opened and he rises shortly his eyebrow as he notices a black-haired man the same size as himself. “Rufus Lore, advisor of Sting Eucliffe, son of Weisslogia and rightful heir to the throne of Lumin and Lector” is he hearing his friend now stating clearly. “The son of Weisslogia you say?” is the man now asking back, obviously sceptic about their true identities.

“That’s right, I am Sting” is his response right now while he starts to sense the presence of an element. Ok, he might have been too young to understand, but his former house teacher had tried to memorize him how to recognize elemental dragons and even humans with the gift of being able to use it for their advantage. “Wait here, I need to talk to his majesty. In the meantime, you over there...” is he saying while pointing towards Lector, “you will go and meet up with Lady Kaya”.

Once Lector was brought away by a man, now only Rufus and him are inside this room and he doesn’t know where they are and who they are dealing with. Besides, why did this man insist on Lector being separated from them? At least the mentioned female name gives him a bit of ease. If his instinct is right, his brother will end up being in good hands. At least that is what he had learned back than during their shared time living at the country side. Of girls and young women being caring. That they support even those they aren’t related to. This is his actual hope deep within his heart. Not knowing, that one woman is responsible for all the suffering, depravity and pain within the realm governed by the Shadow Dragons.