The Chosen Phoenix III

Chapter 9- War Preparations

Laughter echoed the surroundings as a man and a girl laughed, racing up a grassy hill, then falling back onto the smooth grass below the single tree that stood independently overlooking the horizons. The young girl, of around 6 years, gasped as she watched the sun, a smile painted across her chubby face. The man chuckled.

' You know, Jyn, ' he began, ' you never know what's out in the world. Have you ever wondered of exploring a little? '

Young Jyn, still staring at the view in awe, laughed.

' Yeah! I'm going to go farther than anyone has ever been! I'm going to travel as far as the eye can see! ' she puffed in triumph. ' Ben, do you think I'll make it that far one day? '

Ben nodded, ' Of course, Jyn! As long as you're determined, nothing's impossible. '

' Really? Wait... I'm determined to find my parents! So, you're saying that if I'm determined to do so, I'll find them? L-like for real?! ' she gasped suddenly, and leaped up with a loud whoop. Ben's smile melted into a frown, but only slightly so Jyn wouldn't notice.

' Maybe when the world is in danger, I can become a warrior! Like you, Ben! Maybe I'll be the next one to lead Elliot Army! I can help with anything! Hear me out now, world, I'll be able to handle anything! The people won't even need to worry 'bout a thing, not even the slightest, ' she gasped with excitement and determination.

Ben sighed and told Jyn to settle down. He looked her in the eyes, the pair of pure brown eyes he would be seeing for, as it seems then, the rest of his life.

' Jyn, listen, ' he said, ' you can help, yes. But you must also learn that people must learn to rely on themselves. They can rely on you for help, yes. But don't take it too far; those who believe in themselves, will always find a way. '...

' " Those who believe in themselves, will always find a way ". ' Jyn recited as her memory faded. She leaned slightly over the feathered back of Axel, and watched as Zac urged Hunter forwards down below. At last they had reached Elliot Village. The villagers were still cleaning up the ashes, some checking to see if anything valuable was still in good condition. Jyn finally remembered her first adventure to find the core of the Earth.

Believe. That's it! Belief is the main key! Jyn thought eagerly. She rushed to Ben, who was busy ordering Elliot Army on what to do.

' Ben! ' she panted as she clumsily came to a halt, panting as hard as Hunter.

' Jyn? What's wrong? Where have you been? '

' Tell the villagers to prepare. Get all the sharpest and strongest tools, make sure not one living soul in the Village is defenceless, I'm heading back to Fort Village to see if they can join in... '

' Woah, woah, Jyn calm down now! ' Ben seized her by the shoulder an pulled her back. ' What are you even up to! What's this all about? '

' If we want to win a 14-year war, we need to be prepared as early as possible, we need to save more time. Come on, Zac! '

And with that Jyn disappeared on Axel as they both headed tin the direction to Fort Village. Ben turned to Zac, who shrugged and leaped onto Hunter, and the two sped after them. Ben sighed ran his fingers through his hair.

' Need a hand, mate? ' Isaac stepped up with a confident smile. ' My men are all ready, they have more than enough time to help the two villages. I'll go after Jyn, tell my army I left you in charge. '

Ben nodded, as Isaac placed a hand on his shoulder.

' Good luck, Ben. '

' Good luck, Isaac. ' said Ben as Isaac turned away and mounted his horse and galloped off to Fort Village. Ben exhaled sharply.