The 108 Stars of Destiny may shine brightly, forever engraved in
the Tablets of Destiny. It is a sure thing if the Tenkai star succeeds
in completing his or her given task: Uniting a broken nation.

        A star who has failed, however... Their light is forever
contaminated, and dirty. It is a burden they must carry out the rest of
their lives, forever living in shame.

        Found in Luc's Diary, long after his death


        Ad Hoc Studios Presents
        A Rocketarian Pictures production
        in association with Improfanfic

        Suikoden: Distant Shores
        Started by Illyria and Todd Harper

        Part 23: Taking the Initiative
        By BlackCat, Reader in Invisible Fanfics, and Aaron Nowack


        The Old One waited. A person seeing his form in the candle-lit
gloom of his room would have been forgiven for assuming he was dead, so
still was he. Perfectly quiet, the room seemed like nothing more than a
mausoleum. At an unseen signal, however, he raised his head slightly and
spoke. "So. The Tenkai Star grows yet stronger, and the stars continue
to gather under her banner. Tenmou, Tenyu and Tenki among them..." As he
spoke, the Old One traced his fingers over the Tablets, pausing at each
name engraved into it.

        "Yes, master." The Old One's assistant stood several feet behind
him, eyeing the Tablets with a dispassionate eye.

        "This may serve our purposes, or it may hinder them. And of
course, our... employer," this spoken with a faint contemptuous air, "is
not amused. The pup."

        "Master?  Need we continue to... serve him now?  It would be for
the best to rid ourselves of him."  The young man paused for a moment.
"He knows too much."

        "I find him useful for now. If he is so foolish as to challenge
us, then we can deal with him the way we do all traitors."

        "Like we dealt with Kojiro?" The assistant's voice was as close
to anger as he allowed himself to get in his master's presence.

        The Old One smiled, his hand lightly tapping Kojiro's name on
the stone before him.  "Like the Dragonslayer, the Chikou Star still has
a use."  The ninja master turned to face his subordinate, his smile
vanished.  "Trust me,  all who have betrayed me will pay the full cost
of their actions."  The Old One's smile reappeared as he looked the
younger man in the eye.  "All of them."

        The assistant nearly allowed his discomfort to show.  Did the
Old One think that he wished to challenge him?  The man was ambitious,
but he knew he wouldn't stand a chance against his master.  Clearing his
throat, he moved on to the next matter of business.  "What of Aoi? She
left some time ago on your orders to-"

        "That has already been rescinded. With Tenmou and Tenki amongst
their number now, we yet have need of the Tovias brothers. No, for now
we shall merely watch White Cloud closely. And await further 'commands.'
Take four of our number and wait for word. Should you see an opportunity
present itself to remove one or more of the more critical stars, do so."
After a moment's silent contemplation, he added, "Make sure one of them
is Aoi; she grows obsessed with vengeance on the Totorika girl for the
loss of her arm. And Megumi... yes, take her as well.  We must see
whether she can still be trusted."

        "I am sure she can be, master.  After all, she is not a Star...
is she?"  The man waited, but received no reply. After a moment, he
bowed once and faded back into the shadows, leaving the Old One alone
with his thoughts and the ghosts of the past.

        "Tavia Reinschild, you who stand in my place... I WILL control
you, and through you the Stars once more..."

--- ----

        Morning came quickly upon the White Cloud Castle, the sun rising
over the mountains in the east. The sounds of people rushing about,
trying to get chores done, were heard all throughout the castle.
Soldiers tromped sleepily to the eating quarters, hungry for breakfast,
and new refugees scrambled about, trying to find a place to stay.

        Reid Arondight was one of many waiting to be served breakfast.
Unlike the others, though, he wasn't in line for food; the wait would
probably be over thirty minutes. So instead, he was walking about the
castle, looking for someone to chat with. He'd just spent the whole of
last night helping their first cavalry unit get started with the
captured Hereshan horses, since he seemed to have the most experience
besides General Nevenheim, who was still recovering, though mobile.
Still, it was going to take some time to get anything approaching a
fighting-fit unit.

        Catching a glimpse of Werner sitting in a small side room, he
crossed over and rapped on the doorframe. "Morning, your Honor. What're
you doing in White Cloud so early today?"

        "I came in with the latest shipment of seedlings and livestock.
Now I'm just waiting to see Miss Totorika and Miss Ansuro over their
plans to make White Cloud self-sufficient. Her ideas for using the
sheltered areas combined with the hot springs to make greenhouses,
allows the farmers to get started immediately, even with winter coming."
Turning to face the fighter, the statesman offered Reid a chair, which
was accepted.

        "Not just self-sufficient, to hear some of their plans.
According to them, if we do things right, we'll have enough to keep for
ourselves AND sell off."

        "Even better. With the influx of new troops here, Bristow just
wouldn't be able to support you on its own. Well, that and it should
serve to cut down on Rodrik's prices a bit, eh?"

        Reid laughed at this, recalling Lierni's words to the merchant
on how he treated 'captive markets'. "Yes, General Nevenheim was also
fairly critical of his 'middleman's fee'."

        "Ah yes... the good General."

        "Werner?"

        "Oh, don't mind me. It's just that I recall what her role in the
Wind Child attack on Bristow was. Of course now that she is outcast, I
have no reason to mistrust her, but I think it will take sometime before
I adjust to her being related to my city's defense. Now, if you'll
excuse me." Rising, the Mayor of Bristow walked out of the room, leaving
behind a slightly worried Reid.

--- ---

        Situated in one of the second story conference rooms, Tavia
admired the maps in the noonday sun streaming through an open window.
Charlotte had done a great job mapping the surrounding lands, as one
could have found almost anything you were looking for on them, whether
it be a river, city, or a remote town. They were highly detailed, with
fine calligraphy noting the names of all specific locations. Only the
place they were looking for was one of the few places not noted on the
map. The ninjas valued their privacy very highly.

        Still, if Luc was right, they might have an alternative ready.
Awaiting the results of his efforts were Tavia, Nereida, Reid, and
Kojiro. All looked up from their tasks as the mage walked into the room,
followed by Lierni, Kyrina and the twins.

        Before any could open their mouths, he spoke. "We failed. The
ninjas have some sort of crude ward set up, I cannot pin point the
Tablet's location."

        "Well, crude or not, it seems to have stopped you. Out of
curiosity, why just Lierni, Kyrina and the twins here? There are other
Rune users in the ranks." Sitting up in his chair, Reid drummed his
fingers.

        "Numbers are unimportant in this. Nobody else has the necessary
talent. If we had one more mage approaching my level, I believe we could
get a fine idea of its location. Unfortunately, till then, I can only
say it is somewhere-" striding over to a particularly impressive map, he
traced out a circle. "-in this region."

        Reid studied the area indicated. "Luc, that's quite a big area,
and mostly forest. In fact, that's Umber Wood, famed for the wild
monsters and the fact that you can get lost easily there. There are only
a few settlements skirting the edges of it, and those are filled with
the worst sort of criminal, the desperate, or the insane. Are you sure-"
A quick look of disgust from the young mage silenced the fighter.

        Speaking in a harsh tone, Kojiro addressed Luc. "It matches what
I have heard of the Old One's sanctum. I admit, I was surprised you
managed to narrow it down to this much, Keeper of the Tablets. The Old
One is said to be quite an accomplished mage."

        Luc's only reply was a contemptuous look.

        "Do you have any way of further narrowing the area, Kojiro?"
enquired Kyrina as she studied the map.

        "Sadly, no. The hidden village where we live is separate from
the Old One's lair. Only he and his closest servants know the way. All
the rest who must visit him are brought through the shadow by one of
then, making it impossible to memorize a route. However, my village is
not too far from Umber Wood for a shadow walker to travel, so I presume
that the mages are correct."

        "So you're not one of his chosen elite unless you have a 'Shadow
Rune?'" Looking up from her study of the map, Kyrina gestured at the
ninja.

        "Not exactly. Only the Old One knows how to derive such Runes
from Darkness Runes and their proper usage. In the past, it was a sign
of great status to have one, as they were so few.  Now, the ninja are
even fewer, and all of our higher ranking members wield a Shadow Rune,
even those who aren't trusted enough to know where the Old One's sanctum
lays."

        Shaking her head, Nereida rose to her feet. "Well... we can't
just wait until a suitable mage pops in our laps. So, we'll be sending a
group to Umber Wood tomorrow to investigate. Reid, a good sword will be
needed out there. Kyrina, we'll require all your forestcraft." Both
those named nodded.

        "Alyssa, a healer and a Lierstamian, would be natural choice.
And Kojiro-" The strategist broke off as the ninja made a harsh,
chopping motion.

        "Set a thief to catch a thief? Very well. If there is nothing
else, I must prepare." Spinning on his heel, the ninja made his way out
of the room in a silent glide.

--- ---

        Watching the setting sun from his vantage point on the castle's
roof, Kojiro waited. Eventually he called out, "Your form has improved,
Megumi."

        From beneath the shadow cast by the castle's peak, a female
ninja emerged. Flicking her jade-hued braid over her shoulder, she
approached, holding a triple-staff loosely in her hands. "Kojiro."

        Turning to face her, he spoke in a tone far gentler than usual.
"No more uncle?"

        "My uncle was no traitor."

        "Please, Megumi, if you were so truly committed to the Old One
you would not have wasted your time with speech. I taught you better
than that."

        "I was ordered only to only observe White Cloud, and take any
opportunities available. Obviously this is a poor place for an
assassination, thus you live."

        "And should I leave the castle?"

        "You know the answer as well as I. Even if I were a traitor like
you, Aoi and the rest certainly aren't."

        "Ah. Well then, is there anything else?"

        "... not for now." Walking back towards the waiting shadows,
Megumi paused. "But I hope that you are happy in your choice... Uncle."
--- ---

        "And just what do we do with this? While we were going to have
Nevenheim executed, it was supposed to happen after we had exposed
Lierstam's treachery." Looking somewhat put out, Harfeld gestured
expansively with the reports on the White Cloud rebels.

        "Is there a choice? We support the good captain's turn of events
and simply hold back the proof of Lierstam framing Aisha with one hand,
and release the rest of our 'incriminating evidence.'" Calm as ever,
Professor Serre leaned back in her seat as she fussed with the sheaf of
papers in front of her.

        "These rebels seem to be having a run of good luck. What of
them? Do we leave them alone for now?" Shaendra, joining in, looked down
the table at the rest of the council.

        "Mmm, it would be nice if we could announce their crushing along
with the first results of our little war with Lierstam. Perhaps we
should wait for our the results of our first few battles before sending
someone to deal with them." Waving his hands, Evenweir settled back into
the seat from which he had risen. "By that time we'll be fully assured
of the loyalty of all those under us."

        "And what of our pet Malespoir?" Harfeld leaned forward to stare
at the richly dressed council member, the two of them forming an almost
comical contrast.

        "She is still of some use. Many of the troops seem to have
accepted her, and it would be a shame to discard a useful officer before
the war starts. Reassign her to the offense against Lierstam for now,
and let one of our other generals busy themselves with the rebels. With
this internal unrest in Lierstam, we can roll in and have this all
settled nicely if we act fast."

        "Yes, it would be a shame to discard such an easily played
commander now," Shaendra nodded. "Is Davon sure he can control her?"

        "Of course. She might surprise us from time to time, like her
dealing with Aisha, but we can be assured of her overall actions."

        "Well then, it would seem that it is all for the best."

--- ---

        "It was all for the best? That's your excuse, brother?" If looks
could kill, Harod would have been guilty of fratricide as he glared at
his sibling.

        "Calm down now, Harod. It was a good thing I turned back once
Garnof's rafts were sunk. After that, the outcome was inevitable."
Turning his attention away from his brother, Valon attempted to divest
himself of his right boot.

        "Indeed?"

        Giving up on his boots, the Dragonslayer settled for letting his
breastplate drop to the floor. Pretending not to notice his brother's
wince as the blackened steel gouged small divots in the polished
hardwood, Valon continued. "That rather ingenious tactic meant that they
had managed to scrape up some sort of tactician. From that little
maneuver alone, I could tell that Garnof was outclassed... though
frankly, that wouldn't have taken much. At any rate, I think we should
leave them alone for now. Word from Heresha suggests that the council
will deal with them soon after they commence with their other plans."

        "Those being?"

        "Why their upcoming invasion, of course. A little bird tells me
that we can soon expect Heresha to declaim our corrupting their precious
General Nevenheim in an attempt to destabilize them. There's even some
talk of laying their rebels at our feet."

        "Which will serve as a natural pretext for their starting the
war." Harod's eyes glittered as he contemplated this. "Excellent. Those
fools haven't the least idea what they're in for. This invasion of our
borders will only help to consolidate my position. I can use this to
whip up support from the masses and stampede them into begging me to
save them from the treacherous Hereshans."

        "While they do have generals more biddable than Nevenheim,
they've really stabbed themselves in the foot by discarding her. Fransck
is too enamoured with his 'Iron Storm' cavalry to effectively command
anything approaching a balanced force. Wilhelm is a bit better, but
ultimately unimaginative, lacking Nevenheim's flair. The rest of the
Hereshan generals are even less likely candidates."

        "So they'll storm in, take a few towns, maybe even some of the
more important areas... and overextend themselves nicely for us."
Staring at a map pinned on a nearby wall, Harod envisioned this.

        "Precisely. Our armies are relatively equal in terms of numbers
and training, but thanks to some well placed misinformation, the
Hereshan council thinks otherwise. With our foreknowledge and superior
tactics..."

        "...Those fools Evenweir, Shaedra, Harfeld and Serre will learn
just what war is really like. 'There's nothing for the treasury like a
good war,' indeed..."


--- ---

        Megumi bowed as she approached her leader.  "A party has left
White Cloud in search of the Old One's sanctuary."  She glanced briefly
at the three other ninja who were present before returning her gaze to
her superior.  She briefly wondered what his name was, but like most of
the Old One's elite, he had abandoned the use of his name in imitation
of his master.

        The Old One's assistant nodded once before speaking.  "Very
well.  I suppose we must interfere, even though the chances of them
finding it are non-existent.  What is the enemy's composition?"

        Megumi was about to reply when she was interrupted.  "Is the
Tenman Star with then?" asked a one-armed ninja, the other female in the
group.

        A scowl on his face, the leader glared at the woman.  "Aoi...
silence.  You will have your vengeance when it is time, and not before.
Megumi, continue."

        "The Tenan and Tenko Stars are leading the party.  The Chiyu
Star is there for support, and..."  Megumi paused.

        "And?" asked the leader, a hint of a smile on his face.

        "The Chikou Star is with them."  There.  It was said.  He was a
traitor, not her uncle any more, she reminded herself.

        The Old One's assistant nodded.  "Well, Megumi?  Will there be
any... problems?"

        "Of course not," replied Megumi.  "He has, after all, betrayed
us."

        "Very well.  Let us go and prepare an ambush for them.  It is
time to show them our power."  The man stepped back into a shadow and
was gone, followed by his companions.


--- ---

        "Are you sure this is it?" queried Reid as the party trudged
down what seemed like the thousandth hill since leaving White Cloud. It
had been several days since the party had gone in search of the ninja.
At least Charlotte had pointed out a useful shortcut through these
unnamed woods. Up till that point they had been faced with the prospect
of hacking through the Erisan itself, followed by several days of hard
travel to reach their destination.

        "Yeah... a little more and we'll hit Umber Wood." Glancing
around, Alyssa caught a glimpse of the dark shape of Kyrina scouting
ahead. "So... Kojiro, are you sure you want to come with us? I mean, if
the ninjas are around here..."

        "It is precisely because of this that I must accompany you. I
have already betrayed them in aligning myself with your army. To hide in
White Cloud while you face my people... "

        "Well, that's nice to know. Goodness, this forest is really
getting thick, isn't it. It's almost a perfect place for an-"

        "Don't say it!"

        "-ambush? What's wrong?"

        "That sort of thing just invites trouble. And I've got a bad
feeling that we're going to run in to plenty out here."

        "Oh please, I would never have thought you as superstitious,
Reid. Apart from those flying squirrels yesterday, this hasn't exactly
been eventful."

        "It's just that- guuh!" Whatever else the swordsman had to say
was lost as he stumbled backwards in shock, having nearly run into
someone who hadn't been there before. A VERY familiar someone.

        "Oh! Umm... Reid, right? I'm sorry, but I haven't found your
friends yet, even though I've spent hours looking-" Eyes wide, Viki
latched onto Reid's sleeve, puling him towards her and further
unbalancing him. Waving his arms wildly in an effort to recover his
balance, if not his dignity, Reid noted Alyssa making snorting noises as
she tried not to laugh.

        "-and then when I got back to your fort it was all torn down and
on fire, and then I wound up back at Muse, but then I felt so bad that I
told Millicent that I had to go and-"

        Kojiro, on the other hand was examining Viki with great
interest, as if she was some strange new species.

        "-so I'm so sorry that I haven't found them yet and I'll just go
now and-"

        "Wait!" Before the terminally puzzled mage could use her Rune,
Reid laid his hand gently on her shoulder. "Um, Viki, we've already
found them."

        "Oh! Really? I'm sorry I did that to them, Jeane and Hellion
always said that I had plenty of talent, but to keep working on my
control back when I was in the Sorcerers unit..."

        "Ah, that's okay, Viki. Hey... in fact, you've some at just the
right time. We need another mage back at White Cloud."

        "White Cloud? Ah! I think I know where that is. Only the last
time I was there, there was some big suit of walking armor and all sorts
of icky revenants, so I didn't stay long."

        "There's been some renovation." stated Kyrina dryly as she
walked over to them, still scanning the trees.

        "So, why don't you head on back there and-"

        "Sadly, we cannot allow you to do so."

        "-maybe I can actually finish a sentence for a change..."
Trailing off, Reid and the rest of the party scanned the undergrowth for
the hidden speaker. All except Kojiro.

        "Megumi."

        "I told you what would happen if you left White Cloud, Kojiro...
As for the rest of you, if you were looking for ninjas..." Emerging from
the shadows, the female ninja pointed her triple-staff at the assembled
Stars.

        "Enough talk." Springing out from the shadows behind Reid,
another female ninja stabbed at the young fighter. Thrusting Viki to one
side and barely turning away his assailant's kodachi in time, Reid
noticed that one arm of the ninja's jumpsuit was pinned up against
itself. "Arondight, you were there. That'll be enough for now." Lashing
out, the one-armed ninja forced Reid back as two more of her number slid
out of the shadows.

        Her eyes widening as she caught sight of the Rune mounted in the
pommel of the kodachi, Alyssa frantically cried out as she engaged a
tonfa-wielding ninja. "Reid! Careful, she's using a Poison Rune-uhh!"
Making the sellstave pay for her lack of attention, the ninja facing her
connected with a stunning blow to her head.

        Biting of a curse, Kyrina invoked her Wind Rune as she
backpedaled. In these close quarters, her bow wasn't going to be of much
use. She was rewarded with seeing the ninja attacking her stumble and
nearly drop his sword in a small swirl of rose petals as he fought off
the Rune's magic. Taking the time given to draw a dagger, the Elf dashed
forward and tackled him, nullifying her opponents reach advantage.

        Kojiro and Megumi didn't speak as ninja-to clashed against
triple-staff. Faces narrowed in concentration, the two of them danced
back and forth between the trees, neither side showing any hesitation or
quarter.

        Of all the Stars, Viki alone was currently not engaged in
combat.  As she stumbled to her feet, a fifth ninja stepped out from
behind a tree, and walked towards her.  "And who are you... hmm?"  The
ninja stopped his advance and closed his eyes for a moment.  "Ah, the
Chitatsu Star.  We didn't expect you to show up... but then, who does?"
The man smiled, and drew a thin, straight blade from a sheath at his
side.

        Vicki stepped back, raising her staff into a defensive position.
Her opponent darted forward, his movements unnaturally swift.  His first
blow was barely blocked by Vicki's staff, but the ninja quickly prepared
to strike once more, briefly noting that the Rune on the young mages
hand had begun to glow...

        "Eeek!"

        ...and looked up just in time to witness a small rain of chamber
pots.

        Reid grimaced as he tried to focus on the woman trying to remove
various parts of his body without his permission. She'd gotten in a few
good strikes earlier, while he'd been unbalanced, and the Poison Rune in
her kodachi was making its presence felt. He was staring to feel light-
headed, his strength slowly draining away. As he lurched sideways to
avoid a thrust to his heart, he caught a glimpse of Alyssa sprawled
unconscious. With a sudden burst of desperate strength, he brushed aside
his opponent's slash and flung himself backwards, coming to a halt above
the fallen treasure hunter.

"A fine move, Arondight, but now what?" Chuckling, the two ninja closed
in.

        Eeeping as she ducked hurled shuriken, Viki ran around the
clearing frantically dodging the missiles of an increasingly frustrated
ninja who was still attempting to clear his vision. This lasted until
her foot met an unseen tree root, sending her flying face first onto the
ground. Rising slowly, she came face to face with a VERY angry ninja,
sword poised. Behind him, she could just make out the rest of her
companions being beaten back. Reid, clutching his side whilst standing
guard over the fallen form of Alyssa, facing down both the one-armed
ninja and Alyssa's original opponent, whilst Kyrina grappled with
another ninja on the forest floor.

        "Well, Chitatsu Star, you managed to delay your end a brief
while, but, now it is over.  You will be the first Star to fall..."  The
ninja raised his weapon high for a finishing stroke.

        "Ah! GO AWAY!"

--- ---

        Several miles away in the Erisan forest, several black clad
forms suddenly appeared in the air and hung there briefly. Once gravity
remembered its appointed role, however, all four went crashing to the
ground in an undignified heap. Out of the pile rose a single, hate-
filled voice. "At first it was just the Chiin, Chikyou and Tenman Stars.
But now all of the Stars... damn the Old One, but I WILL have my revenge
on ALL of them."

--- ---

        "Well. This was unexpected. Though I should have remembered what
the legends say of the Chitatsu Star's power." Standing stock still, the
green-haired ninja spoke in a conversational tone despite the edge of
Reid's sword being poised at her throat. "I do hope my companions
weren't sent anywhere TOO inhospitable."

        The owner of the sword, however, lay in a crumpled heap several
feet away, his eyes unfocused as Alyssa tended to him while nursing the
large bump on her head. Kyrina, holding the longsword, regarded their
captive with a cool air. "Perhaps. But if I were you, I would be
worrying more on my own position."

        "Kyrina." Stepping between the two, Kojiro shoved the sword
aside. "We will not hold her."

        "Oh?"

        "Tracker, do you think us in any condition to be keeping
captives? Also... I have a message."

        "A message from a traitor."

        "It depends on whom you think we ultimately serve, the Old One
or the ninja."

        "Most would say that there is no difference." A slight smile
playing around her lips, Megumi's eyes never left Kojiro's.

        "Yes, you always were quite stubborn. I never could quite
understand why you always harped on that point." Returning the smile,
Kojiro slowly shook his head.

        "Regardless, I want you to pass this to those who you think
would appreciate it. I agree with the Old One that the time for hiding
has passed. With the two islands on the brink of war, we must align
ourselves with some other power if we are to survive. However, I feel
that it is madness to attempt to manipulate events as he does. One does
not attempt to direct the storm, merely find the best path through it. I
feel that the best path for our people in this rising conflict is with
the Tenkai Star."

        "And this is the message you wish passed on? For us to give up
our independence and render ourselves subservient, bowing our heads to a
new generation of conquerors?"

        "No, not as conquerors, but as equals, partners."

        "... I may pass on your 'message'. But I doubt many will share
your sentiments, traitor.  Perhaps those who do not yet walk the
shadows... but, for the rest of us, and for me, the Old One's will is
law.  Should our paths cross again..."

        "Of course. I taught you too well for anything else."

        Fading into shadow, Megumi gave a slight bow. "Till next time
then... Uncle Kojiro."

        "Uncle?" Giving Kojiro a look that promised further discussion
on the topic, Kyrina turned her attention to the rest of her comrades.

        "Reid's going to be alright. That one-armed ninja got in some
pretty nasty hits, which coupled with the Poison Rune she was using, is
going to keep him off his feet for now," reported Alyssa, looking
slightly dazed from her injuries and the drain from using her Rune. "I
can't do much more for him now with just my Rune though, he's going to
need a doctor for a full recovery."

        "In that case..." sighing audibly, Kyrina turned to the white-
robed mage sitting next to Alyssa. "Viki!"

        "Huh? Yes!"

        "I think we're all going to be making a trip back to White
Cloud. We're in no condition to continue right now."

--- ---

        "And so the Viper Fang lancers and the kobolds are integrating
nicely. Our cavalry however, is going to need a lot more work. General
Nevenheim is doing well in that capacity, but we could use a few more
people with the right experience. This concludes the days report."

        "Aaaah. Finally. I never knew how much paperwork an army
needed," turning in her chair, Tavia looked out the window towards the
setting sun. "I wonder how Reid and the rest are?"

        "Tavia, it will likely be days before we will receive any word
from them, the distance-"

        "Lady Tavia! They're back!"

        "-appears to be not as much of a factor as I thought."

--- ---

        Luc looked down at the tangle of limbs in front of him, and held
back a sigh. He'd had vague hopes that it wouldn't be her again... but
he knew, even without the Tablets, that a new Star had joined. One that
he was ALL too familiar with.

        "Wow! Luc, you're here as well! You're the first person from the
Gate Rune War and the Dunan Unification War that I've seen here. Well, I
think I saw that man who always wore that funny red outfit somewhere in
Rosemont..."

        Holding his hand to his temple, Luc reminded himself of the
importance of ALL of the Hundred and Eight Stars of Destiny.

--- ---

        The Old One smiled as his assistant entered the room.  A snap of
his fingers lit the numerous candles, covering the room in pale light
that merely strengthened the shadows, rather than dispelling them.
"So?" he asked, already guessing the answer.

        "Master, we failed to eliminate any of the Stars this time.  The
Chitatsu managed to..."  The assistant paused as the Old One shook his
head.

        "I know.  That is not what I wish to learn.  What of Megumi?"

        "Master, she fought well.  I saw no sign of any hesitation..."
the young man trailed off.

        "But?" asked the Old One.

        "Master, when the Chitatsu Star teleported us away, she remained
behind.  She must have been captured and released, and I can't see..."

        The Old One interrupted him.  "What does she say happened?"

        "She claims that they let her go on the condition she bring back
a message... some nonsense about joining with the Stars as equals.
Nothing anyone but the newest of initiates would listen to.  Those of us
who have received our Runes..."

        "Exactly," stated the Old One.  "That is why Kojiro would have
been prey to such thoughts.  It is a pity that he was incompatible with
the Shadow Rune... he could have had as much potential as the
Dragonslayer."

        "Perhaps."  The Old One's assistant stiffened.  If Kojiro had
that much potential, it would have likely been him who would have become
the Old One's second, had the Shadow Rune not backfired when used by
him.

        The Old One nodded.  "It appears as though we must reassess our
plans.  With the Chitatsu Star aiding them, it is only a matter of time
before the Stars discover this place."  The Old One glanced at the
Tablets of Destiny.  "Fetch the Dragonslayer.  It would not do for the
Stars to arrive without a proper reception..."

--- ---

"So... now what," enquired Tavia as she stared glumly at the door of the
infirmary.

        "Well, Reid is recovering nicely, but he'll be needing a few
more days in bed, before Koris is willing to let him do anything."
Ushering Tavia away from the infirmary, Nereida guided the young leader
into the nearby conference room.

        "But we need to act fast. Even if the ninja didn't figure out
what we were up to from this, they're bound to be more alert now."

        "True, which is why Viki's arrival is so fortuitous." Sweeping
into the room, Luc tapped his staff against the map spread out on the
table. "With her... assistance, we were able to pinpoint the Tablets.
Since Alyssa, with all her exertions, is unfit for any kind of combat
for the next few days as well, I'll be going in her place."

        A thoughtful look on her face, Nereida nodded in response.
"You'd be better off if we could get someone to replace Reid as well,
maybe Alaric or Kaleen-"

        "No."

        "Tavia?" Following Leknaat's disciple into the room, Lierni
raised her voice as she took in the scene.

        "We won't need anyone else, because I'll be going."

        Coolly raising an eyebrow, Lierni regarded the Tenkai Star. "Are
you sure? As the leader of this army you have certain responsibilities."

        "And one of them is this. Luc says that the Tablets are
important to our success, and I believe him. We've already had several
people hurt over this, and if we don't do anything... Anyway, I HAVE to
do this, Li." Bracing herself for a argument, Tavia waited with baited
breath.

        "Very well."

        "But I have to- huh?"

        "Did you expect me to argue? You obviously have your mind made
up, and while I might not quite see eye-to-eye with Luc over the
importance of the Tablets, what matters is what you think of them. They
would also be a great morale booster amongst the troops, since not many
share my sentiments. Still, there is one thing."

        "What's that?"

        "If you're going to be away fetching the Tablets, we had better
clear some issues first."

        "Ack, MORE paperwork?"

--- ---

        "Captain Malespoir?"  Adele rose as the aide spoke her name.
She nervously walked forward as the doors to the council chamber swung
open.  She did her best to hide her nervousness as the eyes of the
rulers of Heresha settled on her.

        The first thing she noticed was the empty seat that had once
been filled by General Nevenheim.  Adele briefly wondered when a
replacement would be selected, but quickly dismissed the thought as not
being particularly relevant to herself at the moment.  The second thing
she noticed was Commander Davon, seated off to the side in the otherwise
empty spectator's gallery.  The other military officer smiled and nodded
as she stepped forward.

        "Thank you for coming, Captain Malespoir," said Governor
Evenweir said.  "We have called you here to deal with the final loose
end regarding the failed assault on White Cloud."

        Adele started to gulp, then did her best to hide the sign of her
nervousness.  Was she about to be punished for General Nevenheim's
treachery?  Adele's nervousness only grew as she heard the sound of a
large group of people entering the chamber from the spectator's
entrance.  A quick glance told her that the group consisted of most of
the military officers posted within a day's rid of Lindael.

        "Captain Malespoir, you are to be commended for your discovery
of Nevenheim's duplicity. In recognition of this fact, you to be
promoted to the rank of Major, with all attendant responsibilities and
privileges.  Congratulations, Major."

        Adele felt numb as an aide handed her the insignia of her new
rank.  She stood motionless for a moment, until a gesture from Davon
prompted her to join the spectators.  She sat down as the council began
discussion on the success of a recent expedition against the southern
barbarians.

        "Congratulations," Davon said, a wide smile on his face.  "I'm
supposed to take you to go over the details of your promotion, but I
would suggest that we stay here for a moment.  I have a feeling
something interesting will happen shortly."

        Adele simply nodded, then looked up as an aide announced the
entrance of General Fransck, commander of the famed 'Iron Storm'
cavalry, and widely considered a hero for his devastating raid into
northern Lierstam in the closing months of the Crownbreaker War.  An
expectant hush fell over the council chamber as he stepped forward.

        "General Fransck," Evenweir began.  "It is my pleasure to inform
you that in light of your success against the barbarians, you have been
selected to fill the position left vacant by the traitor Nevenheim.  You
may take your place now, if you so desire."

        Fransck stepped forward, raising one mailed fist as if in
victory before seating himself between Evenweir and Serre.  The light of
the many-candled chandeliers shone brightly off of his polished
breastplate, giving him the appearance of a hero out of legend.

        Evenweir smiled briefly before continuing.  "With that taken
care of, it is time for us to move on to our final and most grave
matter.  My fellow Hereshans, in the past few months, our nation has
reeled under a many tentacled strike from our northern neighbors."

        The already muted whisperings among the spectators died out
completely as the entire group stirred.  Every person in the room could
guess what was occurring.  Some hoped for it, and others feared it.
Some had known it was about to occur, and others were taken by surprise.
But yet, all of them were untied in one thing... determination to avenge
the wounds their homeland had suffered.

        "Yes," Evenweir said.  "It is time to finish what we should have
ten years ago.  Lierstam has struck us again and again, with assassins,
with trade restrictions, with insults, with the corruption of Nevenheim,
and with rebel movements within our own territory.  We will not let this
go unanswered!"

        "No, we must not,"  said General Fransck, a fierce grin on his
face.  "Should the Council but ask it, I will repeat what I did in the
Crownbreaker War, and bring Lierstam to it's knees once more!"

        "I believe all the council members know what is being proposed,"
stated Serre.  "Are there any objections?"  The room was completely
silent.

        "Very well," stated Evenweir.  "Let it be declared throughout
the nation, that from this day forth a state of war exists between the
Nation of Heresha and Lierstam!"

--- ---

        "All right," Tavia said, a slight tinge of nervousness in her
voice.  "Let's do this."

        "Lady Tavia," Daniel said, "won't you reconsider?  You shouldn't
be risked on this.  Or at least let me gather a few dozen men to come
with you!"

        "No," Kojiro said harshly.  "This isn't a job for numbers.  We
should be able to come in right on top of the Tablets, grab them and get
out.  More people will just slow us down."

        "We don't have time to argue about this," Luc cut in.  "The
ninja could move the Tablets at any moment."

        "He's right,"  Kyrina said, buckling on Reid's sword.  The
archer had determined that her skills with the bow were not likely to be
of much use in the close quarters they expected to fight in, and Reid
wasn't likely to be needing the weapon for a while.

        Tavia nodded.  "Let's go," she said simply.

        Daniel reluctantly nodded.  "Fine.  But if you're not back in
half an hour, I'm having Viki get you out."

        Luc smiled.  "It won't take nearly that long." He extended his
staff for a brief moment, and a portal appeared in front of the group.
"There.  That should put us right next to the Tablets."

        No more words were exchanged before the four raced into the
portal, emerging in a dark chamber.  Dim light came from an
indeterminable source, revealing a door directly in front of the party.

        "That's it," Luc said, a look of anticipation on his face.  "The
tablets are behind that door!"

        "A pity then, you won't be reaching it," came a voice from the
shadows.  A figure in dark armor stepped out of the darkness, a massive
katana in his hand.  "Ah!  The Tenkai Star is here!  Very good.  I have
long wished to test my skill against you."

        Tavia drew her sai and stepped forward.  "Who are you?"

        The dark figure smiled.  "Some of your friends met me in Eregon,
but I don't believe I properly introduced myself.  And I don't believe I
will now.  You can call me the Black Knight," he finished, a mocking
tone in his voice.  With that, he leapt forward, striking out with a
furious speed.  Tavia barely dodged his first strike, and quickly found
herself being driven back, away from her companions.

        Kyrina moved forward to try and help Tavia, but a second figure
leapt out of a dark corner, tackling her.  As the archer rolled away,
she realized that it was the one armed ninja from the forest.  Kyrina
stumbled to her feet, only to fall back under a storm of lightning fast
kicks.

        Kojiro, meanwhile, turned and raced towards another side of the
room, where his ninja-to soon clashed against a familiar triple-staff.
Megumi smiled as she pressed her attack.  "Well, traitor.  This is the
end."

        "I would not be so sure about that, Megumi," Kojiro replied, his
blade slashing past the female ninja's guard, though failing to score a
wound.

        Ignoring the commotion around him, Luc stepped towards the door,
only to be stopped by a drawn sword.

        "Greetings, Tenkan Star."  The male ninja before him drew a
second ninja-to in his other hand.  "I'm afraid the Old One does not
wish to be disturbed at the moment."  The Old One's assistant leapt
forward, steel whirling before him.

        A contemptuous sneer on his face, Luc easily blocked each of his
opponent's attacks.  "I'm getting the Tablets," he said simply.

        The ninja fell back as Luc took the offensive. "Your better than
the Chitatsu Star was."

        "In many ways," said Luc, as his Rune flared suddenly.  A gust
of wind sent his opponent flying into the darkness, and a moment later a
thud was heard emanating from that direction.  A satisfied smile on his
face, Luc shattered the door before him with a gesture and a second gust
of wind and stepped into the Old One's sanctum.

--- ---

        Luc smirked as he saw the Tablets of Destiny before him.  Even
better was that his only impediment was an old human in a meditative
pose, no doubt the "Old One" the pathetic ninja he had defeated had
spoken of.  This would be simple.

        As Luc stepped forward, the man opened his eyes.  "So... you are
Leknaat's new apprentice?"

        Luc halted.  "So," he said.  "That would make you the failure,
and this 'Old One', I suppose?"

        "I see the Seer has warned you of me," the Old One said.  "Yes,
I was the First Star in Heaven once."

        Luc frowned.  "Out of my way, old man, or I'll move you myself.
The Tablets aren't yours."

        "Oh?" the Old One said.  "I was told quite some time ago that
they were.  I'm afraid you can't have them."

        "All right," said Luc.  His rune flared, and a massive windstorm
appeared centered on the Old One.  However, he faltered as the Old One
remained unmoved by the storm, his clothes not even stirred.

        "Foolish boy," hissed the Old One.  "Did you forget?  I was once
the Tenkai Star, and though I lost my True Rune, I have had since before
these Island Nations existed to gather replacements!  I wield the Umbra
Rune, first and greatest of the Shadow Runes!"  The ninja master
gestured, and Luc's windstorm was reflected against him, sending the
unprepared mage flying into a wall.

        As Luc rose, the Old One as well came to his feet.  "So, boy,"
he said, "are you ready to die like your predecessor?"  At Luc's shocked
look, he smiled.  "You think you're the Seer's first 'apprentice'?  My
Tenkan Star was Leknaat's minion as well, at least until the Tenman star
killed her for me."  The Old One fell into a fighting position, a fierce
grin on his face.  "Well, boy?"

--- ---

        Tavia darted away as the Black Knight's sword whistled by her
side.  Her opponent laughed.  "You're not nearly as good as I was led to
believe, Reinschild.  This will be over shortly."

        Tavia grimaced and dodged another strike, then began her own
offensive.  "I'm better than you think," she said as her attacks put the
dark knight on the defensive.

        "That you are," the knight said.  "But not good enough to defeat
one who has slain dragons!"  The knight launched into a powerful blow,
forcing Tavia to roll to one side.  "The gathering of the Stars ends
here!" he cried as he raised his massive sword for the final blow.

        Tavia rolled in a desperate attempt to svoid the strike.  As she
did so, she was shocked that the Black Knight's sword did not fall.
Instead, the dark knight slowly lowered his sword.  Tavia quickly rose
to her feet and discovered what had distracted her opponent.

        Behind the shattered door, the beginnings of the confrontation
between Luc and the Old One could be seen.  Oddly, the fierce windstorm
seemed silent to those in the room, but the sight of its raw destructive
fury was mesmerizing.  Tavia started as her opponenet spoke.

        "Fascinating," the dark knight stated dryly.  "Your mage
companion is quite skilled.  Give him my compliments, and I will finish
this at a later date."  He swiftly vanished into the shadows.

        However, the other combatants were not as entranced as Tavia and
her opponent had been.  Across the room, Kyrina was engaged in a deadly
dance of weapons, one that she was slowly losing.  The archer was no
novice at swordplay, but she was not the equal of one who was trained to
fight in close quarters.

        The one armed ninja knew that fact, and reveled in her mastery
of the combat, toying with the part elf woman.  "Now," the ninja cried,"
vengeance begins!"  Her kodachi sliced into Kyrina's sword arm, neatly
parting the flesh beneath it.  As Kyrina stifled a scream of pain, her
weapon dropped from her nerveless fingers.  Smiling evily, the ninja
placed her weapon at Kyrina's throat.

        "Now, Tenko Star, you will be the first Star to fall before the
blade of Aoi!"

        Nearby, Kojiro and Megumi had continued their own seemingly
evenly-matched duel.  However, at Kyrina's muffled cry, Kojiro moved
with a speed that made his previous efforts seem sluggish, and it was
only a second before Megumi's triple staff went flying.  "Leave, girl,"
he said, his voice hoarse.

        Anger blazed briefly in Megumi's eyes, then was replaced with
sadness.  "You're weak, uncle.  You should have killed me," was all she
said as she faded away.

        Kojiro, however, was already once more in motion, ninja-to
blocking Aoi's kodachi.  "You interfere once more, traitor!" screamed
the loyal ninja, her fury finding a new target.

        Her attacks were fruitless.  First one strike, then another was
effortlessly blocked.  As her rage grew, Aoi's technique deteriorated,
until Kojiro was able to easily slip under her guard and stab the female
ninja in the leg.  Before his opponent could even cry out, Kojiro's free
hand reached forward and crushed her neck with one strong clench of his
fist.

        With that, Kojiro let Aoi's lifeless body drop to the ground,
and walked over to where Tavia was already tending to Kyrina.  The
archer was already trying to rise to her feet, despite Tavia's protests.

        "It's not as bad as it looks, Tavia," Kyrina said, smiling
weakly.  "I'm fine.  It's just a lot of blood and nothing else."  The
part elf finally stood, though shakily, and retrieved Reid's broadsword.
"I'm fine," she repeated.

        Kojiro frowned but said nothing as the group headed for the
ruins of the door.  Behind them, the Old One's assistant rose.  The
ninja paused at Aoi's corpse and closed his eyes.  A moment later, he
sighed and continued on his way.

--- ---

        The scene that greeted Tavia as she entered the Old One's
sanctum was not pleasant.  Luc's form lay slumped next to the Tablets,
and the ninja master stood between the door and the fallen mage.  A
wicked smile appeared on his face.

        "Well, well.  If it is not the Tenkai Star... and she even
brings the traitor with her.  Fascinating.  Well, Tavia Reinschild, do
you think you can succeed where Leknaat's minion failed?"

        Tavia stepped forward without thinking, sword raised high as the
Victory Rune began to glow.  This only caused the Old One's smile to
widen.  "So, you wield the Victory Rune.  But now, your mastery of what
was once mine will be tested." The ninja master extended his hand and a
ball of utter darkness began to appear within it.

        At that moment, the Old One's assistant came through the door.
Kyrina gritted her teeth against the pain from her wound as she stepped
into the doorway, forcing the ninja back with a sweep of Reid's
broadsword.  Unfortunately, her opponent easily blocked the blow, and
soon struck out with another of his own.

        Elsewhere, Kojiro raced over to Luc's side, planning to wake the
magus.  For a moment, he thought Luc was dead, so soft was his
breathing. The renegade ninja shook Luc, though to no avail.

        Tavia darted forward, attempting to down the Old One with one
quick strike.  The ninja master merely smiled and hurled the ball of
darkness at his opponent.  Tavia stumbled back, feeling as though she
was on fire and freezing at the same time.  As the Old One prepared
another energy blast, Tavia's rune shone even brighter, and the effects
of the attack began to wear off.

        Tavia was about to attempt a second attack when Kyrina's scream
filled the air.  Turning around, she saw the Old One's assistant
standing over Kyrina's crumpled form, bloody blade in hand.  Abandoning
her own conflict, she raced towards the fallen archer.

        Kyrina's scream also had the effect of waking Luc, who threw
Kojiro to one side and rose to his feet.  One faltering hand reached out
and touched the Tablets of Destiny.  The Tablets glowed for a moment
then vanished, teleported to a prepared room in White Cloud,  where care
had been taken to arrange the lights so that no shadows were cast.

        Luc swayed and almost collapsed, but managed to pick up his
staff and use it to lean on.  Kojiro had already raced to join Tavia in
engaging the Old One's assistant, but the loyal ninja simply stepped
back into the doorway and vanished.

        Alone in the center of the room, the Old One grimaced.  "This
game has gone on long enough," he said, a slight tinge of anger in his
voice.  He glanced around the room, eyeing his three opponents before
continuing, "Be warned, Tenkai Star... you may have retrieved the
Tablets, but you have not yet defeated me.  Use your time well, girl,
for when I am ready I will reclaim all that was once mine!"  With that,
the ninja master as well disappeared, leaving the Stars alone.

        Tavia knelt over Kyrina and blanched.  Numerous wounds were
present on her still form.  As well, her skin had an unhealthy tinge to
it... Aoi had not abandoned her Poison Rune, and it was taking it's toll
on the badly wounded archer.  Kyrina's breathing was shallow, and slowly
fading away.

        Tavia started as Luc lay a hand on her shoulder.  "Come on," he
said, not unkindly.  "There's nothing we can do here.  Let's get her
back to White Cloud, and we'll see what we can do to heal her."

        "Or to help her die in peace," muttered Kojiro as he eyed the
wounds.  Evan a hardened ninja such as he was forced to blanch at the
intensity of the glare Luc delivered at that moment.

        After a tense moment, Luc sighed.  "Let's go."  A moment later,
the room was empty.

--- ---

        It was a small, undistinguished farm outside of Bristow.  The
area it was in was quiet, and it had heard only rumors of the troubles
that had engulfed the closest city and the other border areas.  The
largest excitement to be had at the moment was the birth of twins to a
neighboring family, as well as the ever continuing business of running a
farm.

        Thus, the approach of a cavalry troop from the National Army was
reason enough for the entire family to gather together, to see what was
happening.  The leader of the soldiers rode over to the head of the
family, and asked a single question.  "Is this the Reinschild farm?"

        "No, sir," responded the farmer.  "They're about a day's ride in
the direction you were headed."

        The soldier nodded.  "Thank you for your aid, citizen."  He
flung a single gold coin at the farmer, and then the entire troop
continued on their way.

        The farmer stooped over and picked up the coin, examining it for
a moment.  "I wonder what those nice soldiers want with the
Reinschilds..."

--- ---
Stars Recruited: Viki, the Chitatsu (Earthbound Agility) Star

Authors Notes:

Aaron Nowack:

        Hello!  First off many thanks to BlackCat and RiIF for sending
me their aborted parts, which I used to make this part.  Without their
help, I would likely have had to skip, both for lack of inspiration and
time (particularly due to the events of this week, which left me in no
mood to write for some time).  Thanks also go to everyone who preread
for me.

        Second, the obligatory who did what section.  This is really
kind of two parts in one.  Just about everything up to the line "Ack,
MORE paperwork?" was done by RiIF, with some scenes edited (heavily and
otherwise) by me and a couple of scenes totally by me (you can probably
tell which one's by their relative lack of quality compared to RiIF's
fantastic work).  Everything after that line is pretty much mine.
There's not much of BlackCat's part left other than the opening quote,
but there are some bits and pieces scattered about.

        Other than that, I'd just like to say that it's been fun writing
this, and I'll almost certainly be signing up for a fourth part.

        Unfortunately, I was not able to get BlackCat's author's notes
before I had to send the part in.

Reader in Invisible Fanfics:

        Heh, don't let this guy fool you folks. Mr Nowack here made some
pretty impressive refinements to my work. The difference between his
Kojiro and mine *shakes head*. I'd like to thank him here for making
such good use of my part, and for extending credit. While I'm here, a
word on Viki: while I am a self-confessed Viki fan, she does have her
limitations, in fact, they're part of why I'm a Viki fanboy. To those
who would write her, please bear in mind that she does make mistake in
teleporting sometimes, and she can't just teleport wherever she wants.
Also, since the Earth Mirror from Suikoden 1 & 2 is VERY unlikely to pop
up here, whilst Viki can send people places in a blink, they'll have to
walk back the same as always.

        Oh, BTW, I also have vague plans for doing a Glossary for S: DS,
similar to what they have over at FF:L. Anyone interested in helping
out?

        At any rate, it was fun writing for S: DS, even with all the
things RL hurled my way in doing so, and you can count on me returning
for another time around.