Shisno Chronicles: Blazing Sword

Chapter 6: Blood of Pride

(A/N: In case you're wondering why Florina screamed last chapter, let's just say that Sain had something to do with it. He's such a perv. Also, as for the last names, "Cinatorna" and "Tolive" are anagrams for the words "carnation" and "violet", Serra and Erk's hair colors. Quite clever if I do say so myself. I happen to have a thing for names, you know.)

At long last, Lyn arrives in the land of her mother's birth. Lycia is a federation of territories, each one ruled by a powerful marquess. Now, Lyn takes her leave of one of these territories, Araphen and sets out to meet her grandfather, the marquess of Caelin. However, the marquess's brother, Lundgren, hungers to rule Caelin. He is preparing a deadly welcome for Lyn, who stands to threaten his grasp for power.

FERnKBB—FERnKBB—FERnKBB—FERnKBB

Chapter 6: Blood of Pride

"What city is this?" Lyn asked Sain as the Legion looked at the massive walls ahead of them.

Sain looked around, then realized that Lyn wasn't likely to know. "What? Oh, this is Araphen. After Ostia, it's the second-biggest city in Lycia."

"The second biggest, hm? It does seem pretty busy. By the way, where's Kent?"

Indeed, the red-clad Cavalier was nowhere to be seen. Mark and Kat knew where he was; he went ahead so that they wouldn't be mistaken for bandits or mercenaries; that assumption could be brought up from how ragtag the group was, not to mention their open display of weapons and how filthy they were (with the queer exception of Serra and her robes).

"He said he was going ahead to the castle, but…" Sain squinted a bit, then gave a smile. "Ah, here he comes now."

He emerged from the gates, a bit out of breath, then spoke to Lyn. "Milady Lyndis! Let us proceed to the castle. They've prepared supplies for us. The marquess has agreed to aid us on our journey to Caelin."

"That's good news," commented Kat.

"He's going to help us?" asked Lyn.

Kent replied, "Yes. Araphen and Caelin have enjoyed a sturdy friendship for many years. Once I informed the marquess of our plight, he agreed to lend us his strength."

"Looks like we've got a smooth road ahead!" Sain smirked at his partner.

Why do I get the feeling it won't be? Mark thought to himself.

Kent continued, "If we could pick up some soldiers, the road to Caelin would be that much safer. I'm truly for hardships you've suffered so far."

Lyn simply smiled back at Kent and giggled, "Don't be silly. You are so capable, Kent."

The other Cavalier feigned offense. "Kent?!"

"Hm?" Lyn turned around. "Oh, and so are you, Sain."

"Of course I am!"

"The castle awaits…"

Lyndis's Legion reached the gates, where some guards held their spears in their way.

"State your name and business!" one of them demanded.

Sain nudged his horse forward, "Is this how you greet the granddaughter of Marquess Caelin?"

The sergeant did not seem fazed, "Oh. This is the Lady Lyndis and her party? Move along then." The spears were lifted and the group rode through the gate.

FERnKBB—FERnKBB—FERnKBB—FERnKBB

"How can people stand to actually live in a city?" Lyn asked as they looked around. "You'd think that the stench alone would drive them out. Not to mention the enclosure."