The Shadow Kingdom

Ground Zero

Shoto sat upon his mare riding across the ranks of men and eying them carefully. Soon they would march out of Tatooin and towards The Shadow Kingdom. He’d yet to receive word from any other kingdoms about the venture to the Shadowlands, but he expected and accepted that. Whether or not his father played it professionally or not, Shoto also knew his father was right about one thing. Most monarchies looked out for themselves and their own kingdoms, and rarely got involved in the affairs of others. 

“We have to assume we’re on our own. The knights of Tattooin, the warriors of Dagobah, and the protectors of the Shadowlands are the forces that will face against Nomu and the predators.” He took a deep breath and looked to his brother. “Did you reach out to your mercenary crew?” 

“I did, and as you requested offered up a boon for their participation, but it came back dry. Tomura holds the reins of that particular operation, and he can hold a grudge like no other. He’s still pissed I stole your pretty fiancee out from under his nose. The likelihood of them showing up is slim to none.” Touya told him up front, he was a shadow in contrast to his brother wearing all black including cloak and boots. Shoto in the meantime wore mostly white with a blue vest and shining gold cufflinks and the crown atop his head. 

“Very well, oh speaking of which…” he pulled out coin from his bag and tossed it at him. “The reward as promised.” 

“Reward?” Touya lifted the bag his brow raised. “For what?” 

“You promised my father you’d return me to Tattooin. You kept it, therefore the bounty is yours to split with the rest of the Vanguard squad.” Shoto smiled. “Even if you don’t want it, offer it to your teammates. It’s a generous some and will treat you well should we all live past the war.” 

“You know something little brother…” Touya tied the pouch to his waist and smiled at him. “The Bookworm was right… you make a good king.” 

“Thanks, but I’ve seen how you lead your men. I think you would have made a decent one as well.” Shoto commented with a small smile.  

“Perhaps but that ship has sailed. I enjoy being a general though. It feels good to have a seat of power again.” He takes off his glove and whistles between his fingers. “Listen up, zygotes! It’s time to march! Let’s shape up, form up, and ship out!” 

He turned his horse and bowed a little to his brother. 

“By your lead, your majesty!” 

“Humph,” Shoto smirked and then turned towards his men raising his sword. “Let’s move out!”  

~With the Dagobahs~

“Mrs. Midoriya, I can assure you-” Toshinori started to speak but Inko lifted her hand calling for silence. Beside him Master Torino, Iida, and the other men had their heads hung listening to the woman rant and lecture. 

“I don’t want to hear it! I let my daughter go off on her own once before, but not this time. I’m coming along to ensure you lot keep your promise and protect her and the baby! She’s been through enough trauma as it is!” She wagged her finger.  

“Mama, I think they get the picture.” Izumi laughed softly, lounged back in the carriage and stroking her belly. “You’ve been nearly talking nonstop since we left, give them a break.” 

“I’m just worried, Izumi. This is your first child, and you’ve already been through a lot.” She fluffed up some pillows she’d brought behind Izumi to make sure she was comfortable. “Giving birth is hard enough, without all the stress you’re going to add to it. There could also be massive complications due to all the travelling you’re doing.”