OOC: Tags to
@Wicked Basket This is a continuation of the thread: THE MARCH TO AJHFELD (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=16388.msg178338#msg178338) for the mini-event hosted here (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=16012.0)!
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As the two portions of Blaith Harmond's split army merged, the march north towards Ajhfeld's capital had begun, and though the journey had been long winded so far, Igna felt this stretch of the journey was the longest. The winds here cut through the line of men like blades, forcing them to keep close and helping them to move fast.
She would have felt more alone on this journey had she not made a few acquaintances along the way, and though she wasn't sure if it could be called friendship, Jacen Wakefield was turning out to be someone she was relying on more than she should. At night, it seemed, the pair would find themselves in 'camp' together, keeping close to keep warm, huddled along with the rest of the army for whatever brief amount of hours they were alotted as they continued their journey north.
And after only about an hour of fitful sleeping, the army was awoken, and the whispers began to make their way through camp:
The capital was just ahead- not even an hour's march away.
Igna felt herself grow anxious as sheheld a breath, listened in to what the men were saying before moving to look into her rations of food. She knew she should eat, but knowing they were this close to a potential battle...
It made her stomach churn and curl into knots. So she decided to forgo the food as she moved to stretch her sore limbs and offered down a hand to Jacen.
"Come on. The army has begun to move. It shouldn't be much longer now until we reach the capital."
"That's what I was afraid of," Jacen replied as he took the hand that was offered to him.
Jacen reached into his pack, grabbed whatever food item his hand found first, and started eating.
"You should eat," he told Igna assuming that she hadn't eaten anything. "You'll need all the strength you can muster."
"I know," she said, almost curtly. "But I'm too anxious to think about eating."
"That's right," Jacen said. "I keep forgetting that you've never seen actual combat before. You should still try eating though. The last thing you want one the battlefield are distractions, and hunger is very distracting. If you don't eat now, you'll be wishing you had later."
Igna sighed as she averted his gaze.
"I'll be wishing a lot of things were different later." And she fidgeted where she stood, though as usual, she tried to appear calm and collected, but her dark eyes eventually drifted over to him.
"Perhaps we'll be lucky. You never know... maybe there won't be a battle."
Though she had a feeling there would.
"There will be," Jacen replied solemnly. "I don't think your Duke will be satisfied unless he gets one, especially if it's to get his sister back."
It was a grim statement, but he felt that it was pretty accurate. Having a sister of his own, Jacen knew what he would do in this situation. If it were him, he would tear down the entire camp with his bare hands if he had to. This Duke, however, had brought an entire army to do that for him.
She sighed and gave a nod.
"It would sure seem that way. Let's just hope we can keep our element of surprise. I think that's what Duke Harmond is trying to do, anyhow." And she found herself shivering, both from nerves and from the cold, but turned away from Jacen as she tried to feign it off as if it were nothing and moved to survey the surroundings. The army was already beginning to move, and she found herself sighing again, this time much longer as her breath came out in long, white puffs.
"Guess it's time to go." And she didn't bother to look his way as she adjusted her sack over her back, and moved forward behind the others.
"I would say so."
Jacen took up his things and followed behind Igna. He didn't follow her consciously, it was just something he did. She was the only one out of this entire motley army that he felt comfortable speaking to and being near. He hoped that the upcoming battle would not deprive him of the comfort of companionship that he had found in Igna.
The march felt surreal, and though the winds were biting cold, she felt as.if she might be dreaming. Ajhfeld castle lay before them, a dark, quiet figure on the horizon. But the quiet did not last for long. The second they were spotted by thettown's folk, the wintery world came alive. People all over were in a panic, even Igna was on edge, and the army hadnt even been officially approached. Or challenged. And so, they continued to march onwards, and the first of the army was now well within the city.
"It's a very different feeling isn't it," Jacen said to Igna. "Being feared as a monster by your own countrymen even though you are no different than they themselves."
It was then Igna bristled and turned to Jacen.
"Monsters? Hardly, if they were in their right minds they'd know the real monster is the Grand Duke and his laws."
"That is true, but they are not in their right minds. To them, we are the enemy."
It was still a hard pill to swallow, and she grew quiet and turned away from him.
"I'll just be glad when this is all over," Jacen commented. "Then I won't have to fear my own country anymore, my sister wouldn't have to fear for my life whenever I left the house, and there would be no more killing."
Jacen sighed and looked at the ground as he walked.
"I'm so tired of killing."
Igna digested over what he said, and gave a long sigh, creating a whispy trail of white from her mouth.
"It's hard to think this is the only option. But what other way is there than to stand up for what we believe in? I haven't killed anyone, so I'm illprepared for the horrors I'll face, but I am glad I am here. And doing what I think is right."
"Hold on to that feeling," Jacen advised. "At one point or another, it'll be the only thing that keeps you going."
Jacen couldn't even remember how many times he had told himself 'I'm doing the right thing.' Killing was never right. Loss of life was never really worthwhile. War doesn't determine who is right. It only determines who is left, and whoever remains gets it their way.
It was then Igna paused and turned in his direction. And she actually afforded him a small smile.
"Thanks. That means a lot to me, so I'll keep it in mind.
"Anytime," Jacen replied simply, returning the smile.
It was a rare sight. There usually weren't many smiles on the eve of battle, so it was a sight that Jacen planned to hold onto, especially since the smile came from Igna. Igna just seemed so innocent seeing as how she had not yet experienced the horrors of war. It pained him to know that she would soon be the same hollow shell that he himself had become.
The air was tense as the castle crept into view, and Igna could actually see the town coming alive. She wasn't near the front, but when the army was halted at the gates, it was hard to ignore the demanding bellows of her duke, and the angered replies from another. But other than that, all was still, all was quiet, except the flags flapping that showed off the proud colors of Turgall.
Jacen held his rifle close as the duke began making known his demands. He couldn't hear him clearly and part of him wanted to know what he was saying, but he was pretty sure it was something along the lines of "Give me my sister or die". At least that's would Jacen would say if he were in the duke's situation.
"This is it," he said softly, unconsciously shifting slightly closer to Igna. "This is the moment that will decide the course of history; whether or not blood will be shed here today."
OOC: Sorry this took so long for me to reply! Aside from being busy with craft fairs, I was trying to brainstorm how I wanted to set up this scene and write it~
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It happened so fast, like a summer storm. By the time Igna knew the fighting had begun- it ended, and the most she had to do was raise her sword and shield and be at the ready. Those in the front line were the only ones to see action, but it didn't take long for Duke Harmond to cut his way through and get to the Duke of Ahjfeld.
Upon hearing the roar of victory from her own army, she had to do a double take all around her before finally releasing a held breath.
"Was that it?" she couldn't help but smile. "The fighting lasted all of five minutes."
But before she had a chance to say any more, her Duke bellowed for the gates to be open, and suddenly archers from the castle walls began to fire.
The fighting started in an instant. Despite of having grown used to spontaneous violence, he was never prepared for it. Because of the suddenness, he had no time to get into any advantageous firing position. Only once during the short skirmish had he fired his rifle, for there were hardly and good targets to shoot at with minimal risk of hitting allies.
The fighting ceased just as quickly as it had begun, which was also no surprise. Jacen heard Igna make a comment about how short the fight had been, but before he could respond archers began raining arrows down upon them from the walls. Jacen, being a rifleman, had no shield and thus was vulnerable the missiles raining down from above. Instead, he did the only thing he could think of, he took cover behind Igna so that he could borrow her shield. Hopefully she wouldn't mind.
Igna braced herself, shield ready, but what she wasn't ready for was Jacen joining her, and when an arrow hit off the shield, she nearly lost it.
Though she didn't object, Igna had obviously not been prepared for Jacen to join her. The first arrow that struck the shield nearly caused Igna to drop it, which would be very bad indeed. Jacen reached up and grabbed Igna's arm to help steady the shield so that she wouldn't drop it.
"Hold tight to that shield," Jacen told her. "I'm going to take care of those archers. This may get a little loud."
Using Igna and her shield as cover, Jacen took aim at one of the archers. Everything seemed to move in slow motion as he exhaled slowly to steady his hand. It was him and the archer. Jacen pressed down on the trigger, mentally counting down how long this man had to live.
Once he hit zero, the rifle fired. The crack of the rifle was a familiar sound, but not always welcome considering that he knew what it meant. The archer jerked backwards as if he had been punched in the chest, staggered backwards a few steps, then tumbled off the back of the wall.
Jacen quickly ducked back behind Igna as an arrow narrowly missed his head and began reloading. This was war. Kill or be killed. The rest would be sorted out once the river of blood had ceased.
Inga grit her teeth as arrows continued to fly at them, a few striking off her shield.
"Are they aiming to.take out our whole army with archers?" She cursed. "Cowards. If they want to defend this castle, they should come down here and fight!"
"Be careful what you wish for," Jacen told her as he downed another archer. "Standard military doctrine is to soften up the enemy with archers before charging in. You just might get the fight you're looking for, but don't want."
Igna grew silent. She knew he was right, but her instinct to fight kicked in, and she simply adjusted her shield.
"Let's get closer to the front. The battle is ours if we can get the whole army inside the gate."
Jacen sighed.
"If you say so," he replied.
He didn't know the futility of trying to persuade her otherwise, but he figured that letting her actually experience combat would be the best way for her to figure out what it was really like. He would protect her and watch her back as best he could. He didn't want her first combat experience to be her last.
Moving carefully away from the town square, Igna moved slowly towards the front gates. A lot of her fellow soldiers were doing the same, keeping their shields up and making their way towards the front, and as she and Jacen were getting closer, things got more compact, and all Igna could do was hold the shield and keep her sword low, and hoped that her own men wouldn't trample the pair of them. But the moment of chaos, though dizzying as it were, had it's brief moment of reprieve when she lifted her head at the bellowing call of her Duke-
and soon the gates were completely pushed open- and the army was funneling in through.
As the armies moved to clash with each other, Jacen knew that it was time for him to move. Riflemen didn't belong on the front lines. He needed to move, but he should probably let Igna know first.
"My place is at the rear," Jacen told her. "I'll keep working on those archers. Good luck."
With that, Jacen slunk back towards the rear of the army and kept firing upon the archers. The more he could take down, the less there were to kill Igna, or anyone else for that matter. This was his job as a rifleman. He would have to let Igna do her job as a swordsman; or swordswoman in her case.
Before she had a chance to reply, he was gone. And she found herself pushed along in the dizzying moment, nearly trampled by her own men. But the second she was stepping through the great iron gates and hearing the heavy foot falls of armor clad men and the cries of battle, she too, was releasing cries of her own, raising her sword and charging right in.
Jacen did what he was trained to do; aiming, firing, and reloading again and again as arrows flew past. Being that he was an immediate threat to their safety, some of the archers saw fit to single him out as a target of interest. Several fellow rifleman and archers had been hit already, but Jacen was still standing and thus continued firing.
This was chaos if she had ever seen it. The numbers of men the Duke of Ajhfeld tried to muster were no match and as his men tried to rally and storm forward, they were struck down without a second thought- and their dead bodies, trampled upon as the army from Turgall pressed forward. Though she had yet to raise her blade against another, she was still tense and sweating from the battle, and as they continued to move towards the inner castle, she peered over at the front gate, and silently prayed that Jacen would be okay.
As the forces of Turgall advanced, the archers began to fall back from their position atop the city walls. One of the archers let loose one last arrow before departing, grazing Jacen's right upper arm. Jacen, in return, shot the man dead as he tried to run. With adrenaline still coursing through his veins, the wound brought no pain. Jacen advanced behind the army in order to continue to provide covering fire. As he moved forward, he couldn't help but wonder if Igna was alright.
By the time he'd be inside the castle, Igna was already whisked away even deeper inside. She had no idea where she was, but when she, and a large band of men who had followed the duke, halted at the end of a long, velvet rug, she found herself holding her breath as the duchess slowly rose from her chair.
Jacen followed close behind the army. It seemed as though they had managed to get within the castle. Jacen made his way through the crowd to see what they had all fought so hard for, hoping that it was worth it. It turned out to be a woman, presumably the Duke of Turgall's sister. That was simple enough. Maybe they could all go home now.
Jacen's thought's were suddenly interrupted as he remembered something, or someone. Where was Igna? Had he passed her on the way in? Jacen began scanning the crowd, hoping to find his female companion. The battle had ended quickly. Surely she had not even seen combat and must be alive somewhere. At least, that's what he was hoping.
But it wasn't the Duke of Turgall's sister that stood before them, but the Duke of Ajhfeld's wife. And with arrogance, she raised her head- and didn't bother to waste her breath on Blaith Harmond. Instead, she spat on him.
And a second later, she lost her head.
Igna watched in horror as it happened, and she couldn't tear her eyes away. It was like some sort of a bad dream. And before she knew it, more men within the castle, soldiers and servants alike were swarming them. And she found herself needing to draw her steel again.
Jacen instantly spun around at the sound of a sudden commotion. The woman had been decapitated. Apparently that wasn't the duke's sister. Before he could even be shocked by what had happened, they were swarmed by the enemy. Jacen, having been searching for Igna, was horribly out of place. He would have no choice but to fight hand-to-hand without armor or a shield. Jacen hip-fired his rifle into the nearest enemy soldier, downing him instantly. The next one he clubbed with the stock of his weapon. This was not a very ideal situation for him to be in. The chaos of melee combat was not where he belonged. While he had been trained in close combat from his time as a soldier, he was a bit rusty. It was time to see if he still had it in him, as if he had a choice.
Ignorant to her partners situation, Igna found herself finally getting to use her blade, but the first man that swung at her almost knocked her blade from her hand. At her fumbling, he pressed forward, a few more men flooding from behind him and into the throne room. But before they could get another slash in at the downed woman, more Turgallian soldiers from behind her came to the rescue, and soon those men were clashing steel with steel.
Jacen was finding it increasingly difficult to fend of men wielding swords and shields with only an empty rifle. While his affinity with a spear did help him a little, a rifle was much more unbalanced and unwieldy to be swinging around compared to a spear. While he had been holding his own thus far, the next man to face Jacen was a bit more observant. The man wore a helmet, but Jacen did not. As their weapons became locked together, the soldier brought his head down upon Jacen's unprotected skull. Jacen fell to the floor, his vision blurry. Before his adversary could finish him off, he was rescued by Turgallian soldiers. Jacen could feel something trickling down from his forehead and down to his nose. He was obviously bleeding, but he didn't have time to care. Quickly recovering his rifle, Jacen began trying to work his way to the rear now that there were friendly soldiers between him and the enemy.
By the time reinforcements were there, Igna regained her wits, trying to steel herself, but the moment of battle was so chaotic, she feared she'd freeze up. And she continued to watch the battle in horror when she recalled the duchess.. and what had become of her...
and thought back to all she had lost.
Gripping more tightly onto the blade, she stood at the ready. If soldiers were to come this way, she'd be more ready this time to help them defend this area until the bitter end.
Now finally away from the front lines, Jacen could reload and assess what was happening. It seems as though they have been ambushed by enemy soldiers within the castle itself, creating a small but chaotic battle royale. Ranged weaponry was useless in such a tightly packed space. There were no good vantage points or safe places to fire from that didn't put his allies in danger from his own projectiles. Having limited options, Jacen moved to the rear to ensure that the army was not ambushed from behind as well.
The chaos that exploded was terrifying. Those who were still left on the opposing side either tried to surrender as they realized they were out numbered and their leaders- no where to be found (unless you count the dead body of the duchess...)
As the airs began to clear out from the retreat, Igna found herself standing there, heart racing so fast that when it all seemed to be over, all she could do, was stare.
There int he throne room, the Duke of Turgall himself tore down the flag of Ajhfeld and drew another from his pocket, and replaced the one that draped over the thrones with that of the small duchy of Turgall. And it was only then did Igna turn to observe her Duke walk past her, and lines of his own soldiers following, to where outside, he commanded the Ajhfeld flag to be lowered, and once it was, another Turgall flag was raised, and this one flapped high over the castle.
And as Igna stared at the victory flag, she realized, in that moment, she had no idea how to feel.
Jacen watched as the Turgall flag was lowered only to be replaced by the flag of Ajhfield. It appeared as though they had won, and yet there was still no sign on that duke's sister. Jacen, however, was not concerned with the whereabouts of the duke's sister. He immediately began searching for Igna. It might take awhile given the sheer number of soldiers that had been recruited, but he was determined. There would be no resting until Igna was found.
There was talking... murmurs among the men. The duke's sister was not here, but it was not entirely unexpected. But to have it confirmed that the duke's sister was, in fact, a prisoner in the mage camps, had all of the soldiers on edge.
And the result was going around in a flash flooding rumor-
They were to march on Fort Dhagh.
Igna just remained, watching as the flag flapped against the sky- now clear of snow. She didn't even notice that her lips were trembling, and if someone were to ask, she wasn't sure if it was from the cold.
Jacen paid no heed to the murmurs among the soldiers. His frantic search continued until he spotted her staring at the flag of Turgall. Igna. Jacen rushed over to her and placed a hand on her shoulder.
"Igna," he exclaimed. "It's good to see that you are alive and well."
She could have jumped clean out of her skin. Jacen's voice broke her from whatever shock she was stuck in. Then she turned to him, staring at him for a moment before finally sputtering out,
"You're bleeding." And found herself reaching towards the wound.
As soon as she had mentioned it, Jacen remembered that his head had been bleeding. Jacen's hand made it to the injury before Igna's. As soon as he touched it he cringed slightly. The wound was tender. Jacen brought his hand down before his face and looked at the blood on his fingertips.
"It appears as though I am," Jacen said simply.
Igna probably had not noticed the wounds on his arm yet. It wasn't as obvious and his black attire would make the blood stains more difficult to see. Despite his minor injuries, he was still happy that Igna had come out of it unscathed.
Frowning, she kept her brown eyes on the wound.
"We should get that cleaned up. Seems as if we'll be marching again soon. And who knows if this castle will offer any more surprises."
"Again," Jacen asked. "Why again? Is the Duke's sister not here?"
Sighing, she nodded her head.
"It turns out she's been taken to one of the mage camps inside Fort Dhagh."
And saying that fact outloud made her feel as if her belly were full of cold, hard lead.
A fort? Attacking a city was one thing, but a fort was something else. Forts were garrisoned by well-trained, well-equipped soldiers and had much better fortifications. Jacen had been in forts before, and they were no laughing matter. Did this duke really think he could take down a fort? Even with an army this size, there would be considerable casualties unless this duke was some kind of miracle worker.
"That doesn't sound good," Jacen replied.
Once again, his injuries didn't seem so important anymore.
Igna's frown deepened.
"No, it does not." But she pushed that fact aside, as it was just too much to swallow at the moment.
"Here... I've got some supplies. Let me at least dress your wound." And as she reached forward, her hand touched blood. And her eyes widened as she realized he had more than one wound, and the second one seemed a lot worse than the first.
Jacen looked at her as her eyes widened.
"What?"
Then he realized that she had just found the cut on his arm. Now that he looked at it, it might be more than just a minor cut. It still didn't seem too serious though.
"Oh that. The archers didn't appreciate being shot."
Despite all the hell that had taken place thus far, he still decided to make one small attempt at humor. Maybe he could lighten the mood a bit, even if for just a brief second.
Humor or not, Igna was not going to take this lightly. She held on a bit more firmly to him, her eyes hardening.
"Don't brush this off, Jacen. We can't have you bleeding to death. Come on," and she gestured with her head for him to follow her- noticing a vacant area just outside of the throne room where she could help tend to his wounds.
Jacen sighed and followed Igna. He didn't know why it was such a big deal. He wasn't hurt that badly. Still, Igna was not the kind of woman you could say no to. She was stubborn and strong, which wasn't too unusual for a Connlaothian woman, but she was different somehow. Maybe it was his imagination. Regardless, he needed to let Igna play doctor or he would never hear the end of it.
She gestured to a stone slab in the corner.
"Sit." And she waited for him to do so before removing her pack and beginning to rummage through it, bringing out supplies- bandages and ointments while commanding him to, "Remove your shirt. Let me see how deep you were cut."
Jacen sat down like he was told, but paused when she asked him to remove his shirt. He didn't know why that made him pause, but he figured that it would give her the best access to the wound. Jacen took off his cloak and then lifted his shirt off over his head. The cut did look a bit worse now that he was seeing it unobstructed. Jacen sat and waited for Igna to carry on with the treatment.
Where he paused, so did she, and she hadn't meant to, or had planned on it. But to see Jace without his shirt, sweat slicked over his muscles and the blood still clinging to him...
something about it gave pause, and she found herself fighting to swallow, as her throat had become dry.
Tearing her eyes away, she moved forward, taking a clothe and telling him, "I'm going to apply pressure. It seems the wound is still bleeding. We have to get it to stop before I can do anything to help."
So quietly, but gently, she pressed the cloth to the wound, and kept her eyes focused on that.
Jacen let Igna do what she had to do. She obviously seemed to know what she was doing and Jacen trusted her. He sat silently for a few seconds, but then decided to break that silence.
"So," he began. "What did you think? Was combat all you thought it would be?"
She sighed, relieved for his question as she found herself unable to contain a smile of relief.
"Hardly.. I.. barely did a thing."
"That's not necessarily a bad thing," Jacen said with a sigh.
He had done things. Several of those archers were now dead because of him. It was horrifying how easy it was to take a life. One pull of the trigger, and someone was dead. It was unsettling to have such power over someone's existence like that.
At such a remark, she frowned and finally lifted her gaze to him, those dark eyes of hers seeming to ask more questions than her lips.
"I joined this fight to help."
"Many of us did," Jacen replied solemnly. "But don't you wish you could help in some other way? Do we always have to kill? With every life I take, I feel less and less at home. If my countrymen are my enemies but also my friends, then whose side am I on? Where do I draw the line?"
For a long moment, Igna studied his face, her eyes never leaving his. Her hand, still applying pressure to his wound, remained where it was as she released a sigh.
"I don't know. This world... this country.... I can't help but feel.... lost."
Did that make sense? She stared at him curiously. Did he fell the same way? Was he this confused and is that why his remorse made her own, grow?
Jacen didn't say anything and looked down at the floor. He remained silent for what felt like ages before speaking again.
"Am I doing the right thing? Is putting my family in danger now worth ensuring that they can live peacefully in the future?"
His comment just about destroyed her, and she grit her teeth in hopes to hide the pain. They had marched this far not in vain, and not in doubt. And when she hoped for courage, all she found was the same questions, the same fear.
Angrily she looked away, down at his wound and glaring. She noticed the blood had stopped. And that made her sigh with some relief. But she ignored his question, his concern and fixated on his wound care, a clean clothe now produced as she worked at wiping off the drying blood.
Unsure of how to take her silence, Jacen said nothing and went back to staring at the floor as she cleaned his wound. It seemed that no one had an answer for him. That question had plagued him ever since he began fighting and has never left him, always lurking somewhere in the back of his mind. Jacen reached up and idly began picking away at the dried blood on his forehead as he continued his quiet contemplation.
As he moved to fuss over.the wound on his head, she cleaned off the cloth she was using as best she could, and moved to clean his forehead. But she did so in silence, her eyes distant with her thoughts.
Jacen's hand moved aside to allow Igna access to his forehead and went to this lap. His sister would have a fit if she saw him so beat up like this. Jacen quickly pushed those thoughts out of his mind. Thinking about home would only make him feel worse. The silence between him and Igna were unbearable, but he could not think of anything to say. Asking her if all of this was worthwhile seemed to have struck a nerve, but he was too afraid to ask her for fear of losing his friend. Having exhausted all of his options, he decided to go for broke.
"I'm sorry if I said anything to upset you."
She knew the silence couldn't last, so when he finally spoke, she released a heated sigh and looked up at him.
"No, I just was.hoping for a better answer."
Jacen gave her a confused look.
"An answer," he asked. "But I was the one asking the question. What answer are you looking for?"
And for a long while she simply stared at him.
"To my confusion.... but it seems were are both lost here." And she dropped her gaze.
"Though I'm ashamed to admit I'm doubting anything, and we really should keep our heads- after all... what we do here..."
And she lifted her eyes to his.
"We're doing it for our family. For the ones we love. And for our future, even if we do not have one after this."
"The future," Jacen repeated softly.
The future was not something he thought about often, but that didn't mean he had never thought about it before. His mother had always told him that one day he would find a nice woman and settle down somewhere, but he never saw that happening. He had only ever cared about Marie's future.
"I'm not sure I have much of a future," Jacen told her.
Perhaps she too, felt the same. But something compelled her to speak back.
"This is our future." She told him, lowering the cloth and looking clean into his eyes.
"We are soldiers. And this is our path, however difficult or confusing it may be. This is what we chose, and if you can saw that being apart of an army isn't much, fighting for what you care for isn't much.... then why are you bothering to fight at all?"
"Because I have to," Jacen replied. "Because my family can't fight for themselves. Because I don't want my sister growing up in hell. This is not what Connlaoth is supposed to be. This is never what Ansgar intended to happen."
At that,s he gave a nod and a small smile.
"That's what I wanted to hear."
And needed to hear.
Jacen looked at her quizzically. What did she mean by that?
"I didn't know that that kind of question had a right answer," Jacen told her returning a small smile of his own.
"If we were here solely for us, it would guarantee our death. Selfish pride is never a solid reason to raise a sword. But a family.... a family is worth giving your life for."
"That's not the only thing," Jacen said looking up at Igna.
After realizing what he just said, he blushed and quickly looked away. Did he really just say that?
It wasn't until Jacen averted his gaze did Igna realize what that could have meant, and despite the cold, her cheeks heated. She too, looked elsewhere, not knowing what to say-
Except when seh recalled she hadn't dressed his wound yet, she tried blinking away the thoughts and went back to work.
"Here... before you start bleeding all over the place again." And she went about tending to his arm wound.
"Oh yeah," Jacen said, relieved for the topic change. "That would be bad."
Jacen still couldn't believe he had said what he had said. Why did he say that? Igna, fortunately, didn't say anything about it. He simply sat and allowed Igna to dress her wound so as to not risk letting anything else embarrassing slip out of his mouth.
Now that his wound was cleaned and she had a better, closer look at it, she frowned.
"That looks deep. I may have to stitch it closed."
"Stitches? Is that really necessary?"
Jacen was really not fond of sharp object being anywhere near his body. That's one of the reasons he used a rifle or a bow. He did used spears, but the point was far away on the end of the shaft. But if Igna said he needed stitches, he was going to be getting stitches.
She frowned.
"Perhaps not, but should we risk it? An injury, no matter how small, could do a great deal to harm you, Jacen. It would not be wise for us to tempt fate now."
Jacen sighed.
"If that is what you think is best," he replied.
Hopefully she had careful hands and it wouldn't hurt too much.
With a sigh, she gave a nod.
"While we are resting, we might as well. No sense in carrying an open wound if I have the remedy to close it."
And she pulled out a thin leather strap and held it to him.
"Feel free to bite onto this, just in case it really hurts."
Jacen took the leather strap with a slightly worried expression.
"It's not going to hurt that much is it?"
She sighed, but afforded him a rare smile.
"No... but it'll make me feel better that you have it.. just in case."
What Jacen was about to say next made him smile before he even said it.
"If it hurts too much you'll kiss it, right?"
At such a question, her brows raised as she stared at him.
"If you consider a punch to the face a kiss."
But she too, had a hard time keeping back a smile.
"Come on, you've survived this far with the wound open. A little stitching will hardly hurt."
"On second thought, a kiss doesn't sound so good when you put it that way," Jacen replied, the smile still remaining.
"Just be gentle with the stitching."
Igna stared at him for a brief moment, then lowered her head, shaking her head, but not shaking away the smile. She was as gentle as she could be- stitching through flesh was not the same as cloth. But she was careful to consider the reaction of his body to each dragging of the thread through it, and each prod with the needle. When she was through, she cut the thread with her teeth and tied it tight.
"There... right as rain."
Though he wouldn't have considered it an enjoyable experience it wasn't as bad as he thought it would be. The prick of the needle wasn't so bad, but the feeling of the threading sliding through his skin was weird.
"That wasn't so bad," Jacen commented as he examined his stitched wound.
Jacen stood up and wobbled a bit. His head was throbbing where he had been hit now that he no longer had adrenaline coursing through him. He may have had a small concussion, but he wasn't sure. It probably wouldn't last too long though.
Igna watched him stand and promptly glared.
"What are you doing? You should be resting."
"I can't rest," Jacen told her. "If we are going to be marching again then I need to clean my rifle and make sure it's working properly. I need to make sure it's sighted in properly, and that there are no cracks anywhere...."
It was here Igna sighed.
"Then I suppose I could help. I didn't even get a chance to use my sword. So sharpening it would be pointless. Just tell me what I can do."
Well that was not the response he was expecting. He had been expecting her to scold him or something and tell him about how important it was for him to recover, but she wanted to help him instead. As to how she could help him he wasn't sure. It really only took one person to carry out rifle maintenance. The only way she could help is by doing it for him, but he doubted that she had as much experience with a rifle as he had.
"It's not really something you can help with," he told her. "It's only a one man job. The only way you could really help me is by doing it for me."
"Oh? Is that a fact? Or are you just protective of your rifle?" And that, by the smirk on her lips, indicated her jest.
"Well, seeing as how it is the only reason that I managed to live through today I would say that I am rather fond of it, yes," Jacen replied. "What do you even know about rifles? Have you even ever fired one?"
"Once," she said with a smirk. "But I suppose I should leave you to your work?"
"I wouldn't mind some company," Jacen said a bit too quickly. "I mean, you gotta make sure my wounds are healing properly and whatnot."
Jacen quickly retrieved his shirt and cloak before he said anything further. He kept his back to Igna as he redressed, trying to come up with a response to whatever she might say next. His sister was right. He was terrible with women.
At that, she smiled.
"Yes.. but what of the others? I could be of use elsewhere. You're not the only man that needs stitches." For this, she was sure.
"Oh," Jacen said slightly disappointed. "I suppose there is."
Now once again fully clothed Jacen grabbed his rifle and faced Igna once again.
"I'll just get started on this then."
Jacen sat down and got to work. Whether he would have company or not, it needed to get done.
Truth be told, she would have been thankful to keep him company, but she was anxious, and had felt so useless in the fight that she wanted to at least do something. As she began to go around, it seemed the casualties weren't at all that bad. Some were injuries, few critical, but she was able to at least help a dozen men with her supplies. But by the time she had stitched up the last of them, it was time to move on.
Though he could have been done relatively quickly, Jacen took his time. It wasn't like he had anything else to do and he needed something to kill time. By the time he was finished, his rifle was spotless. He got to his feet and wandered out into to crowd. Perhaps a couple of the soldiers had set up a fire somewhere for him to sit by and relax for a bit.
Gathering up her things, she looked around briefly for Jacen, but knew she could not linger. So throwing her pack over her soldier, she followed in line with the others, and the moment she stepped outside, she peered over at the towering Kilanthro mountains,. She could clearly see then now as the clouds had cleared, but the further they traveled along the path north, the snow begun again.
Naturally the army was on the move again by the time Jacen had finally found a place to sit. No rest for weary apparently. He and Igna had become separated yet again, but he was sure that they would bump into each other eventually.
The road, as always, was a long way. Though the fighting had been only a mere few hours ago, the world was silent, except for the movement of the men- and the winds. Strangely, Igna felt herself growing more worried she could not find Jacen again then the possible, terrifying battle yet to come. But as they continued their march, Jacen was no where to be seen.
Jacen marched on with the army around him. The chilling wind was biting all exposed skin and he occasionally shifted his hand on his rifle so he wouldn't get frozen to any of the metal components. It wasn't long before he couldn't take it anymore. He needed to find Igna again. Jacen began searching; weaving through the crowd, checking every face. She was around here somewhere.
Fort Dhagh was a several hour march away. The Duke of Ajhfeld had seen to that. Despite wanting to appease the Grand Duke and support the war in any way he could, he was not about to keep a bunch of imprisoned mages in his back yard.
And from the castle they marched, the terrain began to become steeper as valleys grew into sharp hills. They were at the beginnings of the Kilanthros, so the terrain was not ideal. But due tot he snow being so deep, it allowed them to know they were on the right trail.
It would be over an hour before Igna and Jacen would be reunited, and it was only by a stroke of luck that they did. For the army paused briefly to allow the men to regroup and rest, and as she was moving to replenish her supply of water by pouring in melted snow to her water sack, she slung it over her shoulder and turned to move away, and nearly ran face first into Jacen.
It had been one of the longest marches he had ever taken part in. All Jacen wanted to do now was sit down and rest. As he looked for a suitable location to relax, someone bumped into him. The moment he realized it was Igna, he immediately wrapped his arms around her. As soon as his mind caught up with the rest of him and figured out what he had just done, he immediately let go.
"Um... hi," Jacen said embarrassed. "It's nice to see you again."
A hug was not expected, but because she too, was filled with relief, it caused her to laugh.
"I take it you missed me?" she asked, brushing some hair away from her face with a gloved hand.
"Maybe just a little," Jacen replied with an embarrassed smile. "Have you eaten anything lately?"
Igna sighed, glad that he changed the subject- as it made her awkward, too.
But to answer his question, she gave a slight nod.
"Yes, but not much. I'm afraid to indulge on my rations. Who knows how long we'll be out here."
Even if they survived the battle. She had an inkling this war has only just begun.
"You don't have to indulge on yours," Jacen said taken off his pack and opening it. "These mercenaries bring more than enough for everyone."
With a mischievous smile, Jacen held his pack so that Igna could see the contents. It was filled with different food and drink items the Jacen had taken from unwary mercenaries while they were looking the other way or passed out drunk.
"Surely they won't mind sharing with the actual soldiers."
Igna was surprised when he was to offer her his rations, but to find out he stole it, she gave him a scolding look.
"I'd have to decline. As much as my stomach would love to be filled with that, my conscience does not."
Jacen shrugged and put his pack back on.
"It's not like they can't afford more. We shouldn't have to sit here and starve while those cutthroats feast like kings. The rest of us and our families need all of this more than those mercs do."
She gave him a smirk back.
"I'm sorry. I just have morals." Though it was a jab at his under handed method, in her tone, it was evidently said in jest.
"Morals, huh," Jacen replied. "I wish a lot more people had those nowadays. Connlaoth seems to be lacking."
"I guess that's why we're here." She continued to smirk. It felt good to have something to lighten the mood, even if she still had a fear tingling within her veins at what was to come.
"Well, at least this lack of morals led to me meeting you," Jacen told her with the warmest smile he could manage in the freezing weather.
Igna saw the look. Saw that smile, and couldn't help but sigh through a smile of her own.
"Are you trying to flirt with me, Jacen?"
As if it weren't obvious! But before she'd let him reply, she turned from him and began to walk towards the infinite river of marching men.
Jacen chuckled softly to himself.
"Maybe," he replied though he knew she couldn't hear him.
He immediately went off after her. He had just found her, he wasn't going to let her just disappear again.
"What makes you think I was flirting," he asked, his grin remaining.
"Nothing in particular," she went on, nonchalantly. "But the last man who said that to me got a fist to his eye." And she told him that part when she glanced over her shoulder. What did he have to say to that?
"Really now," Jacen replied. "Then what makes me so different as to not receive the same treatment?"
Jacen may not have been good with women, but he was clever. Two could play at this game.
"And live with the guilt on my conscience of injuring one of my fellow soldiers?"
"Was the last man who said that to you not a soldier?"
"Well, they didn't exactly say that," she went on with a smirk, not looking back to him as she continued forward. "But I thought the man ridiculous, especially since he was only trying to woo me so that his younger brother could marry my sister."
"I see," Jacen replied. "So since you haven't hit me, I take it you believe that I am sincere?"
She froze up a moment when he asked that. Well, what did she expect? She more or less gave him that one. But instead of answering him, she kept on marching forward, avoiding his gaze.
Jacen grinned. Victory. All he had to do now was get her to admit it. He needed to know.
"Is that a yes," Jacen asked, catching up to her again. "I would really like to know."
"Well, of course you're sincere," she went on, matter of factly. "There are rarely other women out here for you to flirt with."
And he certainly was not the first. Though his advances well...
She wouldn't admit it, but they were definitely more welcome than how awkward she felt around that one mercenary- who she hadn't seen in ages. She wonder what had become of that giant of a man?
"So you believe that if there were any other women out here that I would be flirting with them as well?"
Saying nothing, she just kept walking.
Jacen was beginning to get desperate now. He put his hand on her shoulder to stop her from walking.
"What do you honestly think about me," he asked. "Just tell me already so that I know."
Feeling his hand on her shoulder, she turned around to look him clean in the face.
And after hearing his question, she wish she hadn't. She immediately turned away.
"What do you want me to say?" she finally managed to mumble out. "We're soldiers, Jacen."
It wasn't exactly like the typical way she'd find a husband- or even planned to or thought of it in that way.
Though why were her feelings now..... more complex? Maybe she never shouldn't have let herself warm up to him. Perhaps if she would have kept the same impression from when they first had met...
But she supposed it was too late for that now.
"Say anything," Jacen pleaded. "If I'm wasting my time then let me know and I'll leave you be."
It was here Igna paused to study him, really study him and she saw the sincerity on his face.
"Wasting your time?" she laughed at the irony of that, turning her eyes away from him as she shook her head. But then her expression grew more somber.
"Jacen.... you just might be. After all, for all you know, one of us, or both, might not make it out of this alive. You saw what happened back at the castle. And I can't be the only one to think this....
This war..." She shook her head and finally looked back at him. "It's only just begun."
"But what if we are still both alive," Jacen ask desperately. "You're the only other person besides my sister that I've ever been comfortable talking to and being around. Even if I'm going to die I at least want to know if I would have had a chance. Give me at least one certainty amidst all of this hellish confusion."
Studying his face, she felt herself waver.
"What do you expect me to say?" She sighed. "Do you really think I have an answer?"
"Just say yes or no," Jacen begged. "Do you have any feelings for me whatsoever?"
Hearing the plea in his voice made her grit her teeth. She had to turn away. And thinking it over, she felt her face heat up. Why did he have to ask her now? Why did he have to know? They were soldiers... what could be done of this anyway? Couldn't he wait until after this was all said and done? She did not want to have more personal attachments to this war than she already did.
But she couldn't lie. It was nice having someone around to talk to- In fact, he had become the only one around she could talk to. And she wasn't sure what she should say. Break his heart and say no? Then she'd lose her only friend...
Or did she admit some part of her liked him? Perhaps she did...
She didn't know. She felt too...
Confused.
Sure he was nice. Sure he was great to talk to...
But she really didn't want to get attached to him. Perhaps it was too late.
And it was getting 'later'. One of the commanding officers noticed the pair standing and keeping the marching line held back. Pushing his horse towards them, he told them gruffly, "Is there a problem?"
Igna stood at attention.
"No, sir!"
"Then use those legs. We're marching onward. We can not afford delays."
With a rigid nod, Igna didn't wait for the man to leave. She tried to avoid Jacen's gaze as she returned to the line of men. But even as she did so, a heavy stone of guilt lay in her belly.
And the more she walked, the more ill she felt.
Jacen said nothing and didn't even look at the officer when he approached, nor did he say anything as Igna brushed him off and resumed marching. He was left still not knowing. Jacen somberly resumed marching as a million thoughts started running through his head at once. He felt so embarrassed and ashamed to have just broken down like that in front her. What woman would want a man like that? That alone probably ruined any miniscule chance he may have had. Then again, maybe he never stood a chance in the first place. She was right anyway. Either one of them could wind up dead in the upcoming days. Why even bother with such silly thoughts. Perhaps he was doomed to be lonely for the rest of his life.
Jacen sighed sadly and peeled his hand off of his rifle. His hand had become frozen to the barrel because he had forgotten to keep changing the position of his hand during his emotional breakdown. It hurt, but he caught it in time that no skin was peeled off. With another sigh at yet another example of his stupidity, the hollow shell that was Jacen continued his somber march.
She had thought the war was the only thing she'd have to worry about- and losing her own head. Now she was infested with a mixture of emotion. And like Jacen... she wasn't exactly the very best at handling these sort of subjects with the opposite sex.
Though she supposed it wasn't too unexpected, she still had a hard time comprehending it. She wanted to believe it was because she was the only female available-
and if so....
She didn't want to get hurt when this was all said and done. Sure she might look pretty now, but when a soldier returns home-
Who would want a rugged, war-torn, battle-scarred wife at his side?
Wife? Ugh, now she was thinking too much into it.
Did he really have to ask her that though? And as she marched on, legs feeling useless, she began to consider the true answer to that, too.
The numbing cold was nothing compared to the numbness he felt inside. He still had a hard time believing that he had just had an emotional breakdown in front of Igna and the other soldiers as well. They would probably all see him as weak, even Igna. What was he even doing here? He wasn't a soldier. He wasn't a big, strong Connlaothian man like the rest. All he was was some scrawny minor noble that was in way over his head. The more he thought, the more he wondered exactly how disillusioned he was. Could he alone honestly make a difference? Was he really the hero those imprisoned mages said he was? Did he honestly think he even remotely had a chance with Igna?
Over an hour had passed as the long march continued, and the more time passed, the more their conversation ate away at her. Discretely, she began to slow in her pace, trying to make it seem unnoticeable that she was looking around. When she spied Jacen, he was actually not that far away. He was back a ways, and she was surprised she was able to find him so easily, especially with his eyes downcast as they were.
She felt pity for him- perhaps something else, and with a sigh,s he broke away from where she was standing and moved over to him, and without saying a word, took his hand and squeezed it.
"It would be a lie to say I don't enjoy your company," she told him. "But I don't know what I feel. You might blame it on me, the war....but I..... do like your company. It makes this march more bearable and well... I don't like what it's turned into."
This awkwardness... these feelings, it was too much. She'd rather just push it all away.
"Let's... discuss this next time we make camp."
Though as she sighed, even she knew that might not be until after they've attacked the fort they were destined for.
Jacen was surprised when Igna took his hand and immediately looked up at her. He said nothing as she admitted enjoying his company and that she liked talking to him. Then perhaps....she did feel something?
"Igna," Jacen began. "I...I'm sorry about what happened earlier. I... I just... it's just that..."
Well, it looked like his words weren't working again.
Sighing, she turned away from him. He wasn't the only one feeling awkward. But still.. she gave his hand another squeeze.
"Don't... worry about it. This war has taken a toll on us all."
Jacen gave Igna's hand a squeeze in return and turned away as well. He was still sort of ashamed for breaking down like did. Not knowing what else to say, he remained silent and hoped that Igna would be the one to change the subject this time.
She wouldn't have to change the subject as the Captain nearby gave the command. Apparently, they were nearing the fort. She felt her heart race at the thought. It looks like they'd be doing battle again- and soon.
"Looks like we're here," Jacen observed. "I better get to the rear and into position."
Despite what he said, Jacen did not move nor let Igna's hand go. He didn't want to.
She too, tensed at the idea of him leaving, but realizing he hadn't let go of her hand, she couldn't help but turn around. Her eyes spoke volumes where her lips could not.
It seemed this was it. And all she could do was stare.
Jacen turned to Igna and saw the look in her eyes. It seemed that she knew as well as he did that this may very well be the last time that they ever saw each other. Just in case this was the last time he would be seeing her, Jacen decided to grow a pair of balls and make it count.
He kissed her. On the lips.
It was quick, lasting only about a second. Afterwards he began walking backwards away from her slowly.
"I'll either not have to live that down or I'll have some serious explaining to do," he told her with a grin.
He gave her hand one final squeeze before there was too much distance between them and their hands slid apart.
"I'm glad to have met you Igna."
With that, Jacen vanished, assimilated into the swirling mass of bodies around him. He had not said goodbye, nor did he give her the chance to say goodbye. Saying goodbye would have been too painful for both of them, so he had decided to avoid it altogether. Regardless of what happened, he swore that if he was still alive after all of this that he would find her again, no matter what.
Did that really just happen? She stared back at him, at a complete loss of words. And before she knew it, his hand was gone from hers, and another soldier brushed against her shoulder. Yes.. it was time to move on.
Trying to bury what just happened as deep into her mind as she could, Igna kept her head held high and her eyes forward- and it wasn't long before she saw the looming figure of Fort Dhagh. And the soldiers halted briefly, before suddenly, somewhere, somewhere- a massive blast of fire smashed clean into the fort.
It was enough to knock her to her knees, but she steadied herself and peered over at the Fort. What had just happened? Had THEY been attacked? Or were they the one's doing the attacking? All she knew was that the cry forward had been given and soon she and a thousand other men were rushing towards the walls.
The blast of fire did not surprise Jacen as much as Igna. Having been around mages before, he knew of some of the phenomenal things they could do. After giving his rifle one final onceover to make sure that nothing was sticking from the frost, he readied himself to open fire as soon as the enemy came into view. Every enemy soldier he killed was one less enemy soldier to harm Igna. This thought will be his motivation for the coming battle.
The blast, where ever it had come from was tactfully done. It smashed into the remaining wood walls of the fort, and easily splintered its height. Another few blasts and the entire wall came down, including even some of the stone. With this opening the soldiers and mercenaries were able to break through, charging into the fort as one massive wave while another commander barked orders to the riflemen and archers. "Keep your positions and watch the walls. Fire at any man you see up there! Protect our men and make each shot count!!!"
Sure enough, archers and riflemen began appearing on the walls of the fort to fire down upon the invading army below. Jacen immediately sprung into action, downing an enemy rifleman before he could even fire his first shot. Driven on by the thought of protecting Igna, Jacen was shooting faster and more accurately than ever before. Every shot was a kill. Jacen was firing and reloading at such an incredibly pace that his rifle actually began to warm up despite the freezing temperatures. Every kill meant a greater chance of Igna surviving, so kill he did.
If she thought the storming of Ajhfeld castle was chaotic, it had nothing on the hell that evolved the moment the Duke of Turgall's army rushed in. No one had anticipated the attack, and their approach had been well concealed in the snow.
It was this reason it was easy for the army to swarm inside- but now that they were there, they d have a well trained and well supplied army to fight. Flooding into the Fort along with the rest, she was unable to stop her run. The front of the army was like a stampede, and she had seen more than one opposing soldier become trampled beneath.
It wasn't until her own commanding officer ordered her unit to break formation. It looked liked they'd be heading to the armory. A deadly task for sure, but she knew its purpose. Control the weapons and you have the upper hand. And they'd have to do so before the soldier's of Fort Dhagh could so the same. So with a roar, she charged along with her men. This was it. This was the fight they had all signed up for.
The enemy soldiers atop the walls were beginning to have a very difficult time deciding whether to fire at the enemy that was outside their wall or the ones that were inside. They did not have to decided for long, however, as they were soon ordered down from the walls less they be surrounded and killed. With the threat atop the fort's walls removed, Jacen managed to make his way inside the wall and start picking off however was unfortunate enough to find himself in front of Jacen's rifle.
As they neared the armory it seemed Igna was to get her first taste of a fight. Feeling the weight of another blade against her's had her halted in her tracks. But she wasted no time in scraping her sword free and slashing out again. It was cut or be cut and it was time to see what she was worth.
It wasn't long before Jacen was faced with the universal problem involved in using a ranged weapon: Ammunition. As in he was out. He had never restocked after Ajhfield, and all of the shooting he was doing presently used up all he had in no time. Now what would he do? After taking a look around he saw that the army was advancing on the armory. If they took it, he could take some of the ammunition that he knew it would contain. Jacen began making his way toward the armory, making a point to stay out of the fighting.
Her first real fight she was hoping wouldn't be her last- and though she trained, and trained hard, this soldier she faced, she noted, had some rank of significance. His blows were hard, as he was evidently more heavier, thus more powerful than her, but even still, the snow worked as a hindrance to them both as the man slipped and managed to strike out at Igna's arm. And though the blow hit, it could have been worse had the man not found his boots on wet snow.
Using this to her advantage, she slipped away from him and took careful, long strides to escape that fight. She could stay there to keep that man in place, but she had a feeling she wouldn't last long. And her men needed her at the armory, so with that in mind,s he continued to run that way, hoping she could avoid another fight until she got there.
Jacen continued toward the armory, weaving through the chaos as fast as he could. He was virtually defenseless without ammunition. Luckily, it looked like some of his fellow soldiers were at the armory already. Perfect. The sooner he was restocked, the better.
She never imagined how chaotic battles could be. Sure, the battle at Ajhfeld castle was like hell, but Duke Harmond's army flooding into Fort Dhagh was in a league of it's own. Here- there seemed to be an endless supply of highly skilled soldiers, and as she made her way to the armory, she swore. Naturally, it was becoming well guarded. Well, it looks like she'd have to fight and push through. Readying her sword, she sped up in her approach and managed to bat a few on coming blades that swung her way. Hit and run seemed to be her tactic for now, but to her- it was more crucial to secure the location than to remain locked up in a sword fight- at least for now. She'd have plenty of time to engage in that sort of fighting soon enough.
There it was. The armory. It was so close, practically within reach. However, an enemy soldier stood between Jacen and his goal. To make things worse, nothing stood in between the enemy soldier and Jacen. It seemed as though he would have to take this one himself. Switching his rifle to his left hand and picking up a fallen sword with his right, Jacen prepared himself. Sure enough, the soldier attacked. Unlike before, however, Jacen was ready this time. He fought using both his rifle and sword in tandem, striking and parrying with both. It was a unique fighting style Jacen had devised all on his own, incorporating his rifle into close combat. While he was holding his own for now, his opponent was still better equipped with both armor and a shield. Hopefully someone would come and bail him out. If not, then it would be entirely up to him.
Continuing to push her way towards the armory, a pair battling it out seemed to be in her way. She was about ready to simply dodge past them when she noticed who one of the fighter's were.
"Jacen?"
One wrong step had her stumbling, and the man fighting Jacen turned his blade on her- and she felt the sharp sword cut across her cheek, nearly blinding her as she stumbled into the snow.
Sure enough, a fellow soldier came to his aid. So he thought. His opponent turned around and struck the new arrival, not exactly the help Jacen was looking for. Then suddenly, time seemed to slow as he realized who had come. Igna. Dear Ansgar, that was Igna. He had hurt Igna. Jacen became filled with rage as he connected the dots in his head. That man had hurt Igna!
Jacen shouted and dove into the enemy soldier, sending them both tumbling to the ground. He had hurt Igna. He must pay. Not burdened by armor, Jacen was on his feet first, weapons at the ready. The moment his opponent stood up, he was clobbered by the stock of Jacen's rifle and swiftly kicked in the stomach. Before he even had time to recover from being knocked around, Jacen's sword found the man's neck. The soldier collapsed, grasping as his throat as his blood quickly mixed with the snow. It only took a couple seconds for the man to bleed to death.
Jacen went immediately to Igna's side and knelt down in the snow, placing a hand on her shoulder.
"Are you alright," he asked.
Her first injury in battle had her reeling far worse than she would have thought. And though it wasn't a deep wound, it stung and stunted her for the moment. It was when a voice broke through that she suddenly made a noise and became defensive, but seeing it was Jacen, she froze as she looked at him, blood rushing down her cheek from the cut.
The cut on her face was obvious, but since she wasn't saying anything Jacen looked her over himself. Fortunately, the cut on her face was her only injury. That was good. Well, it wasn't exactly good, but it was preferable to more serious and/or numerous injuries. She was merely in a state of shock it seemed.
"Igna," Jacen tried again shaking her lightly. "Igna, are you ok? Say something."
It took her a moment to recover before she reached a hand up to touch her cheek. She winced and with drew her glove to see it stained with blood. She held a hand over it and was quick to get back to her feet- they were in the middle of a battle, after all! But to answer his question, she simply nodded.
"Y-yes...I.. I'm fine. It's just a scratch." And she sighed out a breath. Thank Angsar's name it wasn't more than that.
"Good," Jacen said as he stood up as well. "I ran out of ammunition, so I came over here to grab some more. I got a little caught up in the action on the way though."
Igna gave a stiff nod and looked around, trying to keep herself focused on the task at hand. But the cut stung and the blood tickled her cheek as she wiped at it, smearing the blood.
"My commander has charged us to go that way. Looks like we'll get a chance to work together. But we shouldn't linger here..." And she didn't need to explain why as she gestured for Jacen to follow her. And after stepping past the slain soldier, she turned to Jacen to give him a genuine reply of, "Thanks. If you weren't here, I mght have suffered more than just a scratch."
"Any time," Jacen replied.
Jacen then made immediately for the armory. If the protocols were followed correctly, then the door would be locked. This was done in case the armory were to fall into enemy hands. It was more of an inconvenience than anything, but armories always had thick doors that were not easy to break down. They would need something with significant power behind it if they wanted the door to move, but seeing as they were apparently being accompanied by mages then it shouldn't be too much of a problem.
They were just about to reach the door when a team of opposing soldiers showed up, ready for a fight. Igna growled but readied herself.
"Shoulda figured it wouldn't be easy," she said, and as the men advanced on them, she hesitated not to charge in, sword ready.
"I should have brought more ammo," Jacen mumbled as he readied himself for a fight.
Well, this was just perfect. Not only was he out of ammo, but a bunch of enemy soldiers were standing between him and his chance to restock. He had trouble dealing with one enemy soldier. Now there were several and they did not look very happy. At least he had Igna with him. Surely that would make a difference.
Igna felt the same, and steeled herself for the moment, and lashed out when the men got close and did the same. She was fighting against two clashing blades at once, and somehow, was doing a well enough job parrying the blows- but really, it was just a matter of time, as she felt the other enemy's foot falls behind them. Great- were they going to die here- when they were so close to their first goal of this battle?
But then down a man went in a gargled scream. Startled, she stumbled over his body as it stained the snow in red. Looking up, she noticed her commander was there with them- and about twenty other men. The six that had initially came after them were out numbered, and soon tore down.
But where as their back up arrived, it seemed a dozen new soldiers emerged. Igna released a breath and gripped her sword tightly. Yes.. they would not make this fight easy. But then again- this was war.
Jacen hardly had a chance to swing his blade before his opponents were cut down but friendly troops. Any relief was short-lived, however, as more enemy soldiers arrived. Clearly they were not going to be giving up the armory without a fight. Very well then. If they wanted a fight, then by Ansgar they were going to get one.
Charging forward, Igna's blade soon met the metal of another. The soldier had to be younger than her- he appeared to be swimming in his armor, and his swings were a bit clumsy, as it seemed he was shocked one of his foes was a woman.
This only made Igna cringe. How could she fight against an opponent like this? She knew she was better than this boy by the way she was easily batting back his cuts-
but he still came at her-
Would she have to kill him?
And the very idea made her panic-
and misswing-
Whihc allowed for an opening for the younger shoulder, who's sword sunk down into her arm-
and at first, her eye's went wide and she was too stunned to scream-
that was... until the pain rushed in.
Jacen was managing to hold his own despite being ill-equipped for close combat. Occasionally, he would glance over at Igna to make sure she was alright. During one of his glances, however, he saw that she had been hurt by a soldier who looked far too small for his armor. Though Igna had been hesitant to fight the boy, Jacen had no such problem. Easily finding a gap in the loose fitting armor, Jacen thrust his sword beneath the boy's breastplate and into his heart. The young soldier dropped in the snow, still stunned that he had harmed a woman in battle.
Jacen wanted to see if Igna was ok, but the enemy was still coming. Putting himself between Igna and the enemy, he fought them with more ferocity than ever before. He couldn't let them get to Igna. Jacen swung, slashed, kicked, everything he could to keep them back. He wasn't fighting for just his own life this time, but Igna's as well.
There was so much blood gushing down her arm it had her shaking. SHe could feel it's warmth even seeping through her glove as she clung onto it. She had to stop the bleeding, and fast. She didn't want to bleed out. If she were to die in combat, she'd rather have a sword lob off her head- quick and dead, that's how she wished to go- if at all. But it seemed she'd have no reprieve as a soldier came up behind them- and she let out a shout and threw her blade forward, blocking the man was from coming at them both.
Hearing Igna shout, Jacen turned around and saw the man that had come up behind them. Jacen immediately lunged at the man and began fighting him. Now the two of them were surrounded and only Jacen was in a condition to fight effectively. The situation began to look very grim for both of them, but that didn't stop Jacen from trying. Completely disregarding the odds, Jacen took on all of the soldiers at once. No matter how hard he tried, some of the soldiers managed to get shots in here and there, cutting at Jacen's arms, legs, and torso. None of the cuts were serious enough to stop him though. He was just getting started.
Seeing Jacen fight so diligently helped cull an inward strength. She ignored her wound, as painful as it may be, and continued to strike out, batting men back. But there were so many, and as she saw from the corner of her eye one aiming to get a strike at Jacen's back- she knew he hadn't the time to defend.
Twisting around, she thrust her sword forward and froze in place- shocked that her blade went through the man as he stared at her and slowly, the life began to drain from his eyes as he slumped over her sword.
The entire world seemed to disappear, leaving Jacen in a desperate fight for his life. Everything hurt. His arms, his legs, everything. Fatigue was beginning to set in and he knew he wouldn't be able to hold out forever. He inwardly prayed to Ansgar that he would somehow come out of this alive, and if not, that at least Igna would.
Igna was too shocked to do much else than stare at the corpse she had created.
Death... it was her first time to witness it, and at her own hands. And she wasn't sure how she felt as the weight of battle felt crushing. Thankfully, more reinforcements came along, and Igna found herself staring around as their opponents now needed to watch their backs as swords came at them.
As friendly reinforcements arrived, Jacen's burden was greatly reduced. He went from fighting impossible odds to slim, to difficult, and then to easily winnable. Slaying his final opponent by jamming his sword up through the man's jaw, he took a look around. Where the enemy once stood were now friendly troops. He had done it. He had survived. Turning around he saw that Igna had survived as well. Jacen then looked at all of the corpses that littered the ground around him. This was war.
Since he was no longer in danger, the adrenaline coursing through his veins began to dissipate only to be replace by pain, fatigue, and dizziness. Jacen slumped to his knees too exhausted to remain standing. He could not even drop his weapons, because he had been holding onto them so tightly and for so long that his hands had seized up completely. All he wanted to do now was rest. His body demanded it, but his mind forbade it. Now was not the time. There was still work to be done.
It was only when Jacen fell to his knees that Igna snapped out of her trance. She wasted not a second in rushing to his side.
"Jacen?" She grabbed his arm, shaking him lightly. "Jacen, are you alright!?"
Jacen turned his head toward Igna, which took way more effort than it should have.
"I'm tired," Jacen told her. "I want to go to bed."
Jacen looked around at the chaos that still surrounded him. His mind was too exhausted to comprehend anything. All he knew was that he wanted to go to bed and sleep. Strangely, he also wanted his mother. Not his adopted mother, but his real one. She wanted her to hold him and make the pain go away. He wanted to be surrounded by warmth instead of the biting cold. He wanted to go home.
To see Jacen so exhausted pained her.
"Here.. let me help you get inside. If we stay out here, we'll only find more men to fight." And she moved to put an arm around him and helped guide him inside the armory- where men were already beginning to pillage and take what they could.
Jacen moved to put his arm around Igna as best he could, making sure not to accidentally cut her with the sword that was still stuck in his hand. After taking the weight off of his legs, putting weight back onto them was difficult. Regardless of the difficulties he did his best to help Igna drag his aching body inside the armory.
Once inside, it seemed Jacen wasn't the only one who needed a rest. Another soldier who was bleeding badly was being taken to one corner, so Igna chose to go over there. Might as well leave one section to the wounded who could be cared for- never mind her own wound, which she ignored. Once she had Jacen settled, she removed her waterskin and handed it over to him.
"Here... drink this."
"I can't drop these," Jacen said weakly flopping his arms. "My hands are stuck."
Igna raised her brows, then noticed the way his hands were clutching his things. Moving forward, she told him, "Here.. let me help." And she moved to help uncurl his fingers- which she found to be a lot more difficult than she thought.
Jacen winced as Igna tried to move his fingers. He hands were very stuck. Refusing to be totally helpless, Jacen pinned his rifle to the ground with his foot and tried pulling his hand off of his rifle. Not only was it difficult, but it was also painful. Jacen had heard stories of this happening, but he never thought it possible until now.
"They're really stuck," Jacen said smiling weakly.
Igna frowned as she studied them.
"Do you know of any way I can help you to remove them?" She wasn't familiar with this, at least nothing dealing with rifles and swords.
Jacen strained his tired mind, trying to recall the stories he had heard of others that have been in this situation. After a fair bit of pondering, he suddenly remembered.
"Water," he told her. "Hot water."
Not only would it remove the frost, but it would relax the muscles in his hands as well. Surely that would help, if only slightly.
Igna blinked. Hot water? Where would they find some of that? Though with a quick look around the armory, she noticed a hearth.
"Wait here. I'll see what I can do." And as she moved away, she was stopped by her commander.
"Soldier, we are going to put our forces at the front. Are you ready to defend this armory?"
Igna only nodded, before finding herself stammering out.
"Y-yes, sir. But-"
"But?" the man's voice was like a whip.
"I'm tending to a wounded soldier, sir."
The commander stared at her for a while before thinking it over.
"Then how about you tend to all the wounded here. Take a look around, see who needs help, and do what you can. The rest of us will keep the armory protected."
And with a nod of relief, Igna rushed off to fetch the hot water, inspect the other wounded, before she was finally able to make it back to Jacen.
"Seems they've assigned me as a nurse." She gave a sgh at that, but held up a bucket. "But I managed to get your hot water. Seems we might be stationed here for a while."
"At least you'll be safe," Jacen responded. "Dump the water on my hands."
Jacen closed his eyes in ready anticipation for the pain. Pouring hot water and cold hands was extremely painful, but if it was get his hands loose it would be worth it.
Igna hesitated only for a moment. To think she'd be scalding him in order to help him, it made her a bit nervous. But then she too, closed her eyes quickly as she dumped some over his hands as quickly as she could, then looked at him.
"Did it work?"
Jacen face contorted with pain, but he managed to keep his mouth shut. When she was done, he tried once again to remove his hand from his rifle. It was still slightly difficult, but after a fair bit of pulling a tugging he managed to get his hand free. Jacen began flexing his fingers experimentally as he examined his liberated hand, bright red from the hot water.
"Well, that worked," he stated. "Do the other one."
With a nod, she wasted no time and did the same to the other, holding her breath to make sure it had worked.
Removing his other hand was a bit easier since he had a working hand to do it with. With his hands now free he loudly cracked his knuckles, ensuring that they were good and loose.
"Thanks," Jacen said with a smile.
Giving a nod, she set the water aside.
"Will you be alright now so I can check on the other soldiers?"
Jacen closed his eyes and nodded as he continued rubbing his hands. He wasn't actually sure if he was ok, but there were other soldiers that were probably worse off than he was. They would need the help more.
It would be a while before Igna would return, and it seemed word was spreading fast that any injured men come there for a quick stick or supplies. Igna was sweating profusely from all of the work, her damn armor feeling like a stifling oven against her skin. But just as things seemed to be calming down- there was an explosion that rocked the armory- blasting a hole in the west side.
Jacen had simply sat and watched as Igna raced around the armory caring for wounded soldiers. It seemed as though she was the best choice for this task. Any semblance of peace was interrupted by an explosion blowing a whole in the armory. Jacen immediately scraped himself off the ground, grabbed some ammunition, and began loading his rifle. He didn't know what was going on, but it never hurt to have a loaded gun just in case.
Her ears were ringing by the time the smoke began to clear-a nd herself, as well as all of the men around her, were coughing up a storm. It was so terrible, she was choking on it and found herself needing to stumble outside for fresh air-
and once outside, her teary eyes looked around as she gasped at the chilling cold air that was dust free and heard the cries of fresh battle all around them and then the rattling pull of a canon.
Turning around, she saw just where the canon was aiming- and it appeared as if they were about ready to blow up the armory again!
Jacen looked out of the gaping hole in the wall to see a cannon. They shot their own armory? Don't they know that this is where the keep the....... black powder. Everything came together in that moment. They were going to use the armory as a giant bomb. Not only were their soldiers gathered outside of it, but there were wounded inside. They would all be blown into nonexistence.
Immediately finding his second wind, Jacen flew across the armory and practically began dragging Igna as far away from it as he could.
"We need to leave now," Jacen told her urgently.
Igna's mind was whirling. She didn't even have a chance to be elated to see Jacen alright when his command reached her.
"But... There are injured men inside!"
"There's no time," Jacen told her. "It won't be long before that cannon goes off again, and when it does all of the black powder in here is going to blow this thing to pieces along with everyone nearby."
At that realization, Igna's eyes went wide.
"Oh my God....." And despite the fear for those men's lives, she knew it would be suicide and in stunned silence, she raced off with Jacen, not realizing is tightly.she held onto his hand.
As Jacen ran with Igna away from the armory, he heard the very thing that he had been dreading. The command to fire. Not wasting time, Jacen threw Igna to the snow and then threw himself on top of her for protection. A split second later, the armory and everyone in it would cease to exist.
The explosion was deafening, and it shook the ground like thunder. She hadn't even felt the cold.of.the snow as she lay. Her mind was too panicked, too wild and the second she was able to even move, she grit her teeth, but was too afraid to.move.or speak.
Jacen's ears rang loudly as he felt debris pepper his back. He fought every urge to look at what remained of the armory and instead helped Igna to her feet.
"We need to keep moving," he told her. "They will probably be launching a counterattack right about now."
Still shocked from the explosion, she found only the strength to get to her feet and tremble out, "but should we not stay and fight?"
"Not like this your not," Jacen told her. "You're too disoriented. Once you get your wits about you and we make sure you're ok you can join in."
It took her a.moment to realize what he said. With a growl, she tried to pull away.
"But we can't just run away!"
"We're not running away," Jacen told her. "We're simply falling back and regrouping. We just barely survived an explosion!"
"Yes but..." But soon she was swearing. He was right, and all she could.do was run and pray for those behind her.
Jacen soon located a decent spot for them to stop and took Igna there. Taking a look around to make sure they were safe, he turned to her.
"Let me take a look at you," Jacen said to her. "Does anything hurt? Are you dizzy?"
"Aside from the scrapes and cuts from earlier, I'm alright. But dizzy?" She frowned but nodded. "A little. I must admit it makes it difficult to walk. And my ears... They're still ringing."
"We'll have to keep a close eye on each other," Jacen told her. "It's not only the shrapnel and debris that make explosions deadly, but the shockwave can create internal injuries that we can't see."
Thinking to the shrapnel, she turned to look him over.
"You're bleeding..."
Jacen looked at Igna for moment and then looked down at his stomach. He slowly lifted his shirt, revealing a small shard of metal sticking out of the left side of his stomach just above his pelvis. Jacen then slowly reached behind him and felt the exact same metal shard sticking out of his back. Jacen's blood ran cold as he just realized what had happened. He slowly looked up at Igna, his eyes wide with horror.
He wasn't the only one horrified. And as she stared at him, she fought back tears.
"Just keep running. We'll get you treated once we get out of here." But where could they go? And how could they possibly heal such a wound?
Jacen said nothing, still in shock about the fact that he had a piece of metal lodged in his abdomen. The first thought that immediately crossed his mind was not an uncommon one for someone in his situation.
I am going to die.
He couldn't though. He couldn't die. His sister needed him. And he couldn't leave Igna. He had to live. He had to.
Jacen finally nodded in response to what Igna had said. Gripping his wounded side, he began walking. It was a slow and painful process. Now that he had noticed the wound, it was beginning to hurt. He didn't know where they would go, but he figured that anywhere but here would suffice.
They barely got too far from the armory when they encountered the stone wall. Though nearby, parts were damaged and one could escape or climb in if necessary, Igna knew better than to force Jacen to climb. It was one thing to run, since they had no choice, but she began to panic as she knew not what to.do. And of course that's when a pair of soldiers confronted them, and the rest was a blur. She had.no idea how it happened but within seconds she had downed both men, leaving them nothing but lifeless corpses cooling in their own blood.
Her heart was racing so fast and her body was.so high on adrenaline she felt herself begin to shake. Gods.. she just killed two more men....
But she knew she'd do it again if she had to. Jacen needed her. As she needed him.
When the got to the wall, Jacen couldn't help but see the irony involved in something that was meant to keep them out now trapping them inside. The wall was damaged in places, but he wasn't sure if climbing was an option for him at the moment. Then, when the were confronted by two soldiers he was for certain that they were in trouble. He did have his rifle still, but even if he managed to shoot accurately in his current condition he could only kill one. Igna, however, went into a frenzy and killed them both. Jacen was shocked that she was capable of such a thing, but also thankful.
"What are we going to do," Jacen asked.
"I don't know," she stuttered, gritting her teeth as fear prickled across her skin and chilled her to the bone. "Angsar's name, I don't know!" But another explosion and cries of people drew her attention away from him as she stared in shock over towards a series of buildings that now appeared on fire. And when she noticed civilians running out, her heart sunk.
"The mage camps..."
"We have to get over there," Jacen told her. "They need help."
Her eyes shot to Jacen.
"But so do you... Your injury. We should really take a better look at it."
"They're mages," Jacen told her. "One of them might be a healer."
Igna stumbled in both her thoughts and feet. A healer. If Jacen was bad off, that meant there was hope. But she knew it wouldn't be easy.
"Come on then. Let's see this through. Do you need any help walking?" She couldn't imagine what he was going through with that shard sticking out from his side. Pulling off her scarf, she stuffed it into his hand.
"Here... To help stop the bleeding."
Jacen nodded in response to her asking if he need help walking. Walking had indeed become more difficult seeing as how a piece of metal was lodged in his guts. Jacen took the scarf that was offered to him and put his arm around Igna's shoulders so that she could help him walk. He wasn't sure exactly how severely he had been injured, but getting to their destination as quickly as possible seemed like a good idea.
One boot infront of the other, they made slow progress towards the long lines of black smoke rising up from the northern buildings. From the sounds of screams and the displays of some wild magics, Igna realized some of the stronger mordecai must have been killed.
"Come on," she told Jacen, readjusting his weight on her shoulder. "We're nearly there."
"I hope so," Jacen told her.
He was beginning to get noticeably weaker. All the strain that he endured before the injury and now the injury itself was really taking a toll on him. He didn't know how much farther he could go.
Of course, nothing could be easy, for as they neared the mage camps, a wild spark of magic cracked their way and foolishly she threw herself infront of it to protect Jacen. And with a scream, she went down into the snow, barely hearing those that struck her yell, "Idiot! They wear the banner of Turgall! They're on our side!"
Since Jacen had been leaning on Igna for support, he went down when she did. Jacen rolled Igna over to survey the damage preying to Ansgar that her armor had protected her.
"Damnit, Igna," Jacen mumbled. "You should have just ducked."
Igna was too stunned to move, but soon a group of escaping mages rushed their way.
."Is it true? This army from Turgall is here to free us?"
"What does it look like we're doing, you bastards," Jacen shouted angrily. "You shot her! She was helping you and you shot her!"
Igna cringed. But at Jacen's remark, she found enough strength to ask.
"A healer. We need a healer. Can any of you perform such magic?" And an elderly man stepped forward.
"I can."
With a shaking hand, she pointed to Jacen.
"Please, he is hurt badly. Please help him."
"No," Jacen said sternly. "Her first. Then me."
"We don't have time for this!" She snapped, forcing herself to stand more erect as she growled. "He was hurt from an explosion. Shrapnel... From the armory. It's making him bleed pretty bad."
The healer gave a worried look as he peered over at Jacen.
"Is this true?"
"True, but not important right now," Jacen responded. "She was just shot by one of you mage friends for no reason. She needs to be healed. I can wait."
In all honesty, though, Jacen didn't really know exactly how long he could wait. He could feel his strength fading, but he was determined to have Igna cared for before him. She was more important.
Despite what Jacen said, the healer looked at him with concern.
"You look bad off. Your wife will be fine. The electric blast Keeta hit her with is used to stun, not kill. It will wear off quickly. You, on the other hand, are looking pale. Come. Let us get out of here so I can safely check your wound."
Despite the blood loss, Jacen's face still managed to turn beat red.
"No, no, she's not my wife," Jacen said flustered. "She's a just a friend. A good friend. Of mine."
Jacen looked to Igna and then back to the healer. He suddenly began to regret his decision to come to the mage camp. If he knew something like this would happen, he would have just yanked the.shrapnel out himself and walked it off. This was too embarrassing.
Igna wasted no time. She took Jacen by the arm. "Come. Follow us. We can seek shelter by the west wall." And despite her body feeling like a thousand needles were stabbing her, she forced herself to lead the group to where thankfully there was a small area with no soldiers in sight.
"Here... Sit down and let the healer do his work," Igna commanded with a hand to his shoulder. "I'll keep watch for any enemies." And before he had a chance to protest, she. Broke free of him and commanded if the healing mage," do not let him leave here until he is healed? Understand?" And as she moved to walk away, she paused before adding, "I can't become his wife someday if you let him die." And there was a hint of a smirk before she turned her back on.him and took her look out position as the healer got to work.
Still flustered by the healer mistaking Igna for his wife, he let Igna take charge and lead him to safety. By the time they reached their destination, Jacen was barely conscious. However, he did perk up a bit when Igna made the comment about becoming his wife some day. Did that mean that she did have feelings for him? It must have. It had to. Why else would she say such a thing? Jacen continued looking at Igna, still in awe of what she had said.
But Igna couldnt see his expression, her back to him as she kept watch. But the healer noticed and gave Jacen a light shake.
"Come on, I need you to focus. Now look into my hand. You'll see a bright light. Just keep looking at it. You'll feel warm.and almost blind, but just keep staring until the magic fades away and you can feel the cold again."
Jacen shook his head and came back to reality. After hearing the dealer's instructions he did what he was told and stared at the man's hand. Sure enough, he felt warm and the light became almost blindingly bright. A few moments later, it was over.
"Did it work," Jacen asked.
During the process, the metal piece had been yanked out and discarded. So when Jacen came back around, the old man smiled and patted him on the shoulder.
"I think you'll live." And he offered Jacen a hand to get.to his feet. "You know, you remind me of my.grandson... Always blushing around the girl he liked."
Jacen blushed as he took the hand offered to him and got to his feet. After he had stood up, he wobbled a bit. The wound had been healed, but he had still lost a fair amount of blood and needed to regain his strength.
"How did it turn out for your grandson," Jacen asked.
The man gave a sad smile and patted Jacen on the shoulder.
"Not good. He died trying to defend his family. But we ended up in the mage camps anyway. Angsar rest his soul."
"Oh," Jacen said feeling really guilty. "I'm sorry. I didn't know."
The man smiled and patted him on the shoulder once more.
"No need to be sorry, lad. This is a war. Just be lucky you've got someone to watch your back."
And just as Igna was mentioned, her voice called out, "Enemy soldiers are approaching!" And she readied her sword and commanded the others, "Stay back and look for cover!"
Upon hearing Igna's warning Jacen took up his rifle.
"Well, now your grandson can rest in peace because we're getting you out of here."
Jacen moved over to where Igna was to see what exactly they were dealing with. Now that he had ammunition again, he was a force to be reckoned with.
Startled to see Jacen at her side, she stammered out his name, inquiring, "What are you doing here? Are you healed already?" But she didn't have a chance to inquire about that anymore, as a group of five men charged at them- and it appeared as if five more were following as they swung their swords, Igna's clashing steel to steel with the first one to strike.
Jacen didn't have time to answer as they were rushed by enemy soldiers. One of them didn't get very far as Jacen immediately took him down with a well-placed bullet. He quickly began reloading so that he could shoot again. Close combat was not an option for him right now as he was still recovering from blood loss. He could still shoot though.
The rifle going off startled her- but also the man she was battling. Though both misswung, the miss nearly took off her head. Stumbling back, she wasted no time bracing herself, and thrust her blade out again.
"Fall back, Jacen!" she shouted. "Get those people someplace safe!"
Jacen gave Igna a nod and went over to the mages.
"Come with me," Jacen told them.
He would take them outside of the fort. Seeing as how the inside was still a swirling mass of chaos, outside the walls would be the safest possible place for them to be.
The old man gave a nod, but one of the mages shouted back, "But what about your friend?"
Another man, about Jacen's age stepped forward.
"And I can fight. I'm sorry I had hit your friend, but now that I know what is going on- I can't just run away!"
"Alright, but be careful," Jacen told him.
Jacen then turned to Igna.
"Give us about twenty seconds, then you get the hell out of here."
With that, Jacen began escorting the mages to the front gates to get them out of the fort and away from the chaos.
Just as the battle continued on into chaos, the snow began to fall harder and harder- and the winds, fiercer and fiercer. It was hard to tell who was who and what was what, but another explosion that rocked the ground sent Igna to her knees as she peered over at a massive stone tower that began to crack and crumble- and she soon found herself in it's shadow as it began to fall.
As Jacen escorted the mages, the weather became fierce. Though it did make leading the mages out of the fort easier because none of the enemy soldiers could see them, it would make shooting a lot more difficult.
Jacen made his way back to where he had left Igna. Just as he arrived, he saw the tower get struck and begin to fall. He then saw where Igna was. Jacen dropped his rifle and ran toward Igna as fast as his current condition would allow. He dove for her hoping to knock her out of the way and avoid being hit himself.
Angsar must've been on their side, for as the tower came crashing down, rocking their world- the pair of them missed being smashed by barely a foot. But thye were sprayed in the snow that was shot up from the fallen tower- but the only pain they'd endure was when their bodies would knock together.
At first, Igna was too stunned to move as she lay there- dizzily staring up into the fast falling snow. And when she had the strength to look around- the winds cleared just enough for her to see-
The flag of Turgall was now flying over Fort Dhagh.
It had been conquered.
They had won.
Jacen laid in the snow staring at the sky. He was alive. Propping himself up on his elbows he looked over at Igna. She was alive too. Jacen simply laid back down in the snow and stared at the sky. The flag of Turgall was flying. It was over. Thank Ansgar.
It seemed the soldiers still had a bit of fight left in them- but the remaining bits of the battle quickly came to a halt as they all realized who had won. Word got around that General Serenus was dead, and all of his commanders beneath him, too. Without a leader, the soldiers abandoned their post- but where were they to go in such weather? And those who did try to run... well, some were killed off byt he blood thirsty mercenaries that Duke Blaith Harmond had hired.
But it was over, all of it over- and they were finally ordered to take a break- after all, the Fort was now theirs. They would rest here for the night, but naturally they'd have to clear the place out- make sure it was safe, but soon enough, the night would come, and the fires were blazing- and the men- quick to take on whatever alcohol had been left by their conquered Connlaothians and soon drunken songs were abuzz throughout the snowy, bloodied fort.
Igna wasn't much one to drink, but she too, took up a cup or two to give thanks to be alive. Somehow though, she had been separated from Jacen, and began to look around for him. She wanted to share a drink with him- and kept two in her hand as she began to make her rounds around the fallen fort.
Despite the victory, Jacen was never the type to celebrate. He didn't consider killing something to celebrate. So, Jacen Sat alone by a campfire performing maintenance on his rifle. It would surely need some taking care of after having been fired so many times and being exposed to such cold temperatures.
Just when Igna was about to give up (for she was quite exhausted after the day,) she noticed a smaller fire with a single soldier in front of it (after the other two soldiers that were using it got up to leave and inspect where they would sleep for the night). Sure enough- there was Jacen, working away at that rifle.
She smirked, thinking back to when they first met.
"Care for a beer?" she asked, stepping up to the fire circle.
Jacen looked up from what he was doing upon hearing a familiar voice offer him a beer.
"Hey," he responded. "Yeah, I suppose I could use one of those."
Smirking, she offered it to him before taking a seat nearby.
"So how'd you get a fire all to yourself?"
"Apparently I wasn't too much of a conversationalist," Jacen told her before taking a long swig of his beer. "What brings you here?"
She smirked and breathed a laugh through her nose.
"If you can believe it," she said, taking a drink of her own beer. "I was looking for you."
"I'm honored," Jacen replied with a smile. "Have a seat anywhere."
Despite the smile, it was still possible to tell that Jacen was not nearly as happy as he was seemed to be. If anything, he was sad, but he was hoping Igna didn't notice so that he didn't ruin her good mood.
She sat as close to Jacen as she dared, smirking at him before taking another drink.
"You should be honored. As you know, I don't like most men." And she said it with a playful air of arrogance.
"Oh really now," Jacen replied. "Well then what makes me so different than most men that I am worthy of your presence."
"Well, for starters- I hated you."
"I know that," Jacen told her. "Things seemed to have changed since then."
She smirked and gave a nod.
"Yes.... They have." Staring down at her drink, she grew quiet for a while and just looked at the way the fire danced off of her drink.
"Thanks.. by the way." She said, shifting uneasily beside him. "You know, for the whole saving my life thing. We both could have had that shrapnel in us." And she looked up at him only then, giving him a small smile.
"Anytime," he said with a smile of his own. "I'm just glad I was able to stop it in time."
Jacen took another drink and stared into the fire for a bit.
"I wish I had a couple more of these," Jacen said looking into his glass and taking another sip. "It's going to take more than just one."
It was then Igna noticed his disposition and grew quiet as she studied him.
"Yeah... I know what you mean," she said softly, then looked towards the fire. "I had a few before I found you. It helps... a little anyway. But.." she grew quiet, the crackle of hte fire the only thing shared between them before she spoke again.
"But these scars we'll bear are different than those that you can see."
Sure, she might get a scar on her cheek, or one on her side, but she was alive and Turgall...
Turgall was winning.
She found herself smiling, but it was a sad smile, and her eyes soon grew distant as she looked past the dancing flames.
"They were Connlaothians," Jacen said softly. "Just like me. I killed so many of them. So many fathers, husbands, and brothers. They'll never be seen again."
Jacen continued staring into the fire, a single tear welling up in his eye.
Igna went quiet at that. The very thought was like lead in her belly, and made her throat go dry. Staring at the flames still she swallowed, trying to think of what to say, but nothing came out.
"It's terrible what has happened to us... to this country,"s he murmured. "But this is war."
And though she tried to sound brave, her voice wavered.
"I was told not to dwell on it, to just swallow it inside. It's the only way you can keep on going. And we've all made our vows. Soldiers... as soldiers we know the consequences. And it's our burden to bear."
"I'm not a soldier," Jacen told her. "I'm just some noble's kid that's in way over his head because he wants to do the right thing."
Igna was taken back by that.
"You're the son of a nobleman?"
OOC: I can't recall if she knew that so if I'm wrong let me know so I can fix the post!
(OOC: She didn't, so that's fine.)
"A minor noble, yes," Jacen told her. "I'm also a rifle instructor and Lieutenant in the Connlaothian army. I don't fight with the army anymore though. I'm doing quite the opposite actually."
Igna went silent as she digested all of that, her eyes studying him before she offered out the rest of her drink.
"Here... you said you'd like some more. I think I've had enough of this."
Jacen chugged down the rest of his drink and then the rest of Igna's.
"I've never told anyone that," Jacen told her. "But I trust you. And now that you know the situation I'm in, you can imagine how hard it is for me to trust anyone. But, since you have managed to earn it, then I feel that you deserve to know a little about me for all your trouble."
At such a revelation, Igna gave him a crooked smile.
"Are you going to tell me a bed time story?" she teased. "About your life and where you had come from?"
"Do you want one," he asked with a small smile of his own.
She looked him over, the sparkle of mirth still evident in her eyes.
"That depends..." she said, her smile growing.
"Depends on what, exactly?"
"The story..." she said, with a nod. "If it's a nice story and you don't mind telling it, then I wouldn't mind lending my ear to hear it. But a sad story...... well, I don't know if I'd like one of those right now. It would be nice to hear something.... I dunno, romantic, or light hearted. A cute story if you had a pet or perhaps a clever way you woke your sleeping parents up. I dunno, but..."s he said, studying him. "Then again, it's up to you. I suppose if you need to get a sad story off your chest- I would listen just as well. too."
"My parents are dead," Jacen told her. "I barely knew my father and my mother died shortly after my sister was born. I don't really have any happy stories to tell."
Her expression turned serious as she studied his face.
"Jacen I..... I'm sorry to hear that. You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to." And she turned away, finding herself blinking back a few tears at this discovery. "We've dealt with enough death for one day."
Jacen said nothing and looked into the fire. He really didn't want to talk about it at the moment, so he decided to change the subject.
"Did you mean what you said before," he asked.
"What I said before?" She asked, giving a.curious tilt of her head.
"When I was injured. What you said about becoming my wife someday."
Igna froze, eyes going wide as she suddenly.diverted her gaze to the snow. Her cheeks were heated pink, but once her eyes were away, she bashfully laughed at herself.
"oh..." She said carefully, still avoiding his gaze. "That..."
"You never did tell me if you had any feelings for me."
While this would normally be a subject that he would be too embarrassed to talk about, he was so exhausted and and slightly drunk that he didn't really care. He wanted to know. He needed to know.
At his insistence, she felt all of her heat go into her ears. Surely her face was as red as the fire.
She forced a small smile,a breath of a laugh before replying, "Well, we wouldn't have known if you had died, would we?"
And she turned to him, quietly studying his face. But before she could say another word, the sound of boots crunching on snow alerted her someone was approaching. Seeing it was a commander, she was quick to rise to her feet.
"Sir!"
"At ease, soldiers," the man said. "We'll be resting here for the night. The soldiers are allowed to sleep inside wherever they can find shelter. The snow's only going to get worse. Don't need our men freezing to death after our victory."
"Yes, sir!" she said, and hte man nodded to the pair of them and left.
"That's not going to save you this time," Jacen told her his expression solemn but serious. "I'm not going to let the subject change. I need to know."
Igna stiffened before finally turning to Jacen. She studied his face for a good long while before frowning.
"And if the answer favored a yes?" she asked, carefully timing her words and studying his features. "What would it mean to us? Out on the battle field?"
"It would mean that I have something to look forward to after this is all over," Jacen told her. "It would mean that surviving that shrapnel wound was worthwhile. It would mean that I'm not as alone as I always thought I was."
Igna was a bit stunned by his statement? Alone...
Perhaps she too, could understand what he meant. Sure, she had her family, but never... someone else to be there, to hold her. She had always told herself she didn't need someone. But it seems the war, and her feelings for Jacen, were quickly changing her mind.
"I suppose that would make two of us." And she moved to walk away. "Come on. We need to get some rest. It's been a long day and I have a feeling we'll be marching again at first light."
Jacen quickly stood and took hold of Igna's hand to keep her from walking away. He needed answers, and if she wouldn't tell him then he would get them a different way. Jacen pulled Igna close and kissed her again, but longer this time. Her reaction would definitely tell him something.
Taken off guard he would simply kiss her, she found herself nearly choking on her breath when his lips met to hers. But the kiss, at least for the moment, seemed to pacify her as she paused a moment to enjoy the moment, the sensation of his lips against hers before she opened her eyes and peered back into his.
Jacen broke the kiss and simply looked at her. She didn't seem to reject it, nor did she seem disgusted. She looked sort of shocked, but it also looked like she had enjoyed it. That was all the confirmation he needed. He waited to see what she would do next.
She remained quiet, unable to figure out what to say. So she said nothing, a blush heating her cheeks as she looked at him.
"We.... We should probably get out of the cold," she said, shivering as white puffs of breath escaped her lips.
Jacen couldn't help but smile a little as he saw Igna blush. Confirmation.
"Where should we go," Jacen asked. "There probably aren't many places left."
Igna nearly slipped in the snow.
"Let's... Let's just see what's left. I think there's the barracks over there."
"Alright."
Jacen began making his way over to the barracks glancing over his shoulder to make sure Igna was following.
Igna was quiet as they moved along, even through the bustling barracks. As they guessed, the place was pretty jam packed, but one of the men keeping order directed the pair towards the north hall. With a nod, Igna moved over in that direction, but of course, even that corner of the place was full.
"I didn't realize there were so many of us here until we're all forced into one location." She shook her head and sighed, noticing a small corner, tucked off to the side, that was used to house some supplies It was evident the supplies were gone, but the crates were not.
"We could move the crates. Try to sleep back there," she gestured.
Jacen looked at the crates for a moment before turning to Igna.
"Hold on a second."
Jacen began moving and shifting the crates around. After almost 2 minutes of his little game of Rush Hour, he was finally done. He had arranged the crates in such a way that they almost formed a little private room.
"There we go," Jacen said admiring his handiwork. "All to ourselves."
(OOC I hope you are familiar with the game Rush Hour so that this makes sense :P )
OOC: I'm not lol All I can think of is the movie XD
But I get the picture XD
-----
Igna watched in silence, had couldn't help but smirk at the handy work he had done.
"And here I thought you were just a nobleman's son who had made a hobby out of shooting guns," she teased.
(OOC Am I the only one who knows this game?!?!?)
"It's more of a survival skill than a hobby," Jacen told her. "At the moment anyway. Maybe it will be demoted to hobby once this is all over."
Jacen stepped into his little crate room.
"You coming? There's room for two?"
Igna hesitated only briefly before nodding.
"Of course. Can't have all of your hard work go to waste." And with a small smile, she crawled in behind him, and sighed.
"You did a nice job with the place. It's actually pretty warm back here," she said, and began unbuckling her armor, removing her boots first and depositing them to the side in a manner to make them somewhat of a pillow. It wouldn't be that comfortable, but heck, it was better than sleeping on the stone floor. Turning her back to Jacen, she pulled up her hair and asked, "Can you help loosen the clasps in the back? I need a breather from this armor. I think it's rubbing away some of my skin."
Luckily for Igna, Jacen was familiar with the armor she was wearing from his time in the military. He loosened each clasp one by one until they were all loose enough for her to remove her armor. Being a rifleman, he had never really worn much armor, but he could imagine that it wasn't comfortable.
"How's that," he asked.
With a groan,s he shrugged her armor off and dumped it aside, taking a moment to sit back and lean against the cold stone wall as she raked her hand through her sweaty hair. She was in nothing but simple, small clothes, but she hardly cared. It wasn't that revealing, but it would hardly look all that modest- what with the sweat and blood stains all over it.
"I can't believe this day is over," she said, using her foot to push her armor up agianst the wall as far as it would go, so as not to take up too much space that they'd need to sleep.
"Well, I'm glad that it's over," Jacen said removing his cloak. "I've been wanting to sleep since this morning when I woke up."
Jacen rolled up his cloak into a makeshift pillow and laid down on the floor next to Igna.
"So," he began. "You do like me, then."
Igna found herself between a rock and a hard place... Or rather, a stone wall and Jacen laying by the only opening alotted in their private corner.
She turned to him, raising a skeptical brow at him before she smirked.
"What gave you that idea?"
"The kiss," he told her. "I didn't just kiss you because I wanted to. I kissed you because it was the only surefire way to know whether or not you had feelings for me since you wouldn't just tell me yourself."
"So the kiss was a test?"
"You could say that," Jacen replied with a grin. "If you think I'm wrong we could always test again just to be sure."
"I don't know... But I think you've done enough testing . Perhaps its my turn to give it a try?" And she leaned forward as.of.to.kiss him, but paused just a breath away as she looked intently into his eyes.
"Well," Jacen said with a grin.
The grin disappeared as he stared back into her eyes.
"You don't have to if you don't want to."
She continued to look into his eyes, really looking into them before saying, "I never said I didn't want to."
"So then....Do you want to," Jacen asked now confused.
At his question she smiled and lifted a hand to his face, cupping his cheek gently as she looked him over.
"I do," she told him softly, slowly. "But I wanted to take note of your face, really see the green of your eyes. To commit itto memory, just in case you and I do end up somehow surviving this thing and getting married ." Then she leaned forward before he had a chance to reply, and she kissed him, soft and sweet before opening her eyes to look into his again, before moving in to kiss him again. But this time the kiss was deep.
When she cupped his cheek, Jacen felt warm. When she mentioned marrying him, his heart fluttered. When she kissed him, his heart nearly burst out of his chest. He felt like he was in heaven. When she kissed him deeper, he caressed her cheeks with his hands and returned the kiss in kind. Jacen never felt so alive.
The kiss ignited a fire within her like never before. And though she had always been so prudent with men, she had inadvertently starved herself of such affections and it seemed Jacen was her outlet. But the stress of war allowed her to carry much on her conscience, but kissing... Kissing made her feel free. It made her feel invincible and vulnerable all at once. And once the kisses had started, they could not be stopped.
Jacen couldn't even begin to describe what he was feeling. For so long he had deprived himself of interactions with others in order to keep his family safe. For so long he had not let himself grow close to anyone because he didn't trust anyone. At this particular moment, however, none of that mattered. Here with Igna there was no war, no fear, no anger. It was just the two of them and a flood of New emotions that they were both experiencing for the very first time. Jacen was convinced that he could stay like this forever.
Despite the air being cold, their little private corner soon was growing heated, and she felt her body become sweaty as her under clothes stuck to her like a second skin. Even her hair was sticking across her forehead as her kisses became more intense as she whispered half through a whimper, "Gods, just kiss me, Jacen. Kiss me forever."
"Gladly," Jacen replied between kisses.
Jacen wrapped his arms around Igna and rolled onto his back, pulling Igna onto his stomach. He certainly wasn't cold anymore.
As she was rolled ontop of him, the heat they shared only intensified and she found herself in fever of another kind. Though her lips remained locked to him, the legs that straddled him seemed to squeeze him tighter as she made soft noises between breathy kisses as her hands cupped his face with warmed fingers, and her loose blonde hair would tickle at his face and neck.
Jacen rubbed his hands up and down Igna's back as the laid in their own private world. Not only was he no longer cold, but he was now actually starting to sweat. There were now absolutely no thoughts in his mind other than Igna, and knew then that he would not be able to live without her. As this thought crossed his mind he held her even tighter, determined to never let go.
As their two bodies were pressed together, and she enjoyed the feel of his hands along her, she moved in to kiss him, and kiss him deep before she pulled away and looked into his eyes and said, "Make love to me."
For who cared the other me were just a few feet away. The war had done enough to cause her to abandoned all senses but for him. And the reality they could very well die...
She suddenly found herself so very desperate to consummate this blooming love. And in doing so, just live in a peace of heaven- if only for a moment in time.
Jacen was taken aback by what Igna had just said. Did he just hear her right?
"Here," he asked. "Now?"
The more he thought about it, the more he wanted to. He couldn't deny that he loved Igna, but he didn't expect to rush into things so fast. Then again, they may never get the chance to do so again. There was no telling if they would both still be alive by the end of this war.
"I've never done anything like that before," Jacen told her.
At his reply, she nodded and she found herself smiling before she kissed him.
"Neither have I."
Jacen smiled and caressed her cheek with his hand.
"If that is what you really want," Jacen told her. "Then I suppose I could give it a shot."
She laughed a little, it was a breathy sound laced with just a tinge of fear- but also lust. They were both so inexperienced, and she had been so hesitant to get close to him before-
and now she wanted it all.
She blushed as she looked up at him, giving him a slight nod before moving down to slowly unlace her underclothes.
Jacen merely laid there stunned. She was beginning to undress right in front of him and he had no idea what to do. Should he be getting undressed too? It was somewhat difficult with her lying on top of him, but maybe he could get his shirt off at least. He reached down to try to pull his shirt off over his head, but he was so shaky and nervous that even such a simple task as that was proving difficult.
Still half dressed, she realized the difficult position Jacen was in and she paused with her undergarments half unlaced as she moved to help him. She gave a tug at one sleeve, then the other and soon his shirt was pulling off of his head, leaving a messy nest of his dark brown hair about his face. At such a sight,s he couldn't help herself as she pulled him close to her and kissed him.
His body felt so warm,a nd where her shirt had come undone- she shivered at the very sensation of his skin against her own. It lit a fire within her that made her softly moan-
but she was mindful of the other men sleeping, and gave a husky, lust filled look towards Jacen before leaning in to kiss him again.
Jacen was now breathing heavily and his heart was running at a million beats per minute. He couldn't believe this was happening. Jacen eagerly returned the kisses he received after Igna had helped him remove his shirt. Deciding to return the favor, Jacen reached up and began unlacing Igna's undergarments the rest of the way.
To feel a man's hands, even as calloused and chapped as they were, moving roughly, fumbling to help unlace her made her body burn even more. It was a maddening sensation, and as he worked at her laces, she moved down to undo his belt, tossing it aside with a triumphant breath before her fingers hesitated only briefly over the laces and buttons of his pants, before undoing them- eager, but slow.
As Igna began working on his pants, he became even more nervous. Despite the shakiness of his hands, he managed to completely unlace Igna's shirt. He reached up to remove it, but then he paused. He had never seen a woman topless before. Jacen looked to Igna for permission. He didn't want to just start disrobing her without consent.
She paused at the laces of his pants, eyes going to his. Seeing the questioning there, she gave him a bashful smile and moved to meet his hands with her own. The lace last removed, she shrugged her shoulders, and let the undershirt simply fall away.
Jacen looked upon Igna's exposed form with wonder. She was beautiful. Jacen ran his hands up Igna's arms and over her back taking in the feeling of her smooth skin. His eyes then fell upon her breasts, but they remained there this time. Jacen's hands soon went to where his eyes were. The first thing he noticed was how soft they were. He continued to marvel at Igna's chest as he slowly massaged her breasts with his hands. It was a good thing that this was both their first times or he would be much more embarrassed about how clueless he was.
She released a soft breath when she felt his rough hands against her soft form, and were her nipples not already erect, they'd be so now. Her own hands smoothed across his chest as well, down to the rippling valley of his abs, then back up to his shoulder. Though they were both partially dressed, and she ontop of him still, she could feel something prod between her legs. Was that Jacen? Either way it fueled her fire as she found herself slowly rocking her hips over his as she leaned forward to kiss him, then to press her forehead against his as she continued to move, as if making love to him- except it seemed both their pants were still in the way.
Jacen's hips began moving to meet Igna's movements. They weren't even actually making love yet and he was already experiencing incredible pleasure. He could only imagine what the real thing would be like. Jacen soon began to notice his pants becoming incredibly cramped. It seemed as though his body knew what it was doing at least.
"Igna," he said between pants. "I love you."
The feeling was incredible, to feel his need beneath his pants yearning for hers. But what really lit her fire was when he confessed he loved her, and she looked up into his eyes before she kissed him. Then kissed him again.
"I love you, too," she told him through a breath, her forehead pressing against his as her hips still moved.
Jacen held her close as he kissed her. She admitted it. She loved him. She really loved him. He couldn't take it anymore. As much as he enjoyed kissing, he needed to express his love to her to the fullest extent. Jacen reached down and began removing Igna's pants.
"I need you now," he whispered.
She felt a thrill rush through her at his words, and in a haze, she simply nodded, and helped him with her pants. Though it seemed her pants were being stubborn and felt as if they were glued to her body, and she panted and whimpered and wriggled in hopes to have herself free.
Jacen was not going to be determined by a single rebellious article of clothing. Jacen tugged at Igna's pants until they finally came loose. The only thing left was her underwear. In order to be fair, Jacen began removing his own pants as well. This had to be perfect, so he was going to take it one step at a time.
She mumbled a thanks between kisses, moving around in their confined little space as much as she could and tried to help him with his pants, but as she was doing htis, she knocked her head off of the short ceiling above them and cursed.
"Angsar be damned, I could't think of a better place to try this," she told him in half jest as her lips captured his again. "Gods... you have no idea how much I want you," she breathed. "But I think the circumstances are only making it worse." Though she smiled about it and kissed him again- helping him in such a way that finally, his own pants were falling down his legs.
"Whoever thought pants could be so pesky?" she said through a soft laugh and another kiss.
Jacen chuckled softly at Igna's remarks.
"Well, they shouldn't be too much of a problem now," Jacen told her.
He pulled her in for some more kissing before looking into her eyes once more.
"Are you sure about this?"
She looked at him, as if in a daze and lightly nodded her head.
"I couldn't think of a better person, a better time to give myself to than you."
"Then I'm all yours," Jacen said with a smile. "Do with me what you will."
She couldn't help but give him a crooked smirk.
"Typical man- make the lady do all of the work."
Though she teased, she wasn't going to complain. If she was in control starting this, it might be easier. She heard it hurt for a woman, when she made love for the first time. Though that fear was temporarily cast aside for the heat burning in her loins.
Slowly, she lowered herself down ontop of him, their bodies just a breath away. But she could feel his eager sex beneath hers and she found her breath hitching. She was close enough to his sex he'd be able to feel her heat. And whens he moved again, he'd be able to feel the outter folds of her sex, which were slick and ready for him to make entry-
Though she didn't go that route at first-
No, at first she tested the waters, letting her sex rub against his. And at first, there was still no entry, but it felt so good she shuddered at the thought of how it would feel like when they were truly joined, truly making love. And somewhere in the middle of her brief experimentation, she let out a gasp as his dick slipped deep within her.
Jacen watched with great anticipation and nervousness. This was really happen. The heat coming from between Igna's legs was intense. When she first made contact he couldn't help but gasp when he felt the burst of pleasure. Then when he slipped inside he moaned, overwhelmed by the explosion of pleasure that shot through his loins. It was an absolutely amazing feeling.
Their love making was slow at first, perhaps a little clumsy as her body moved in tune to her needs. But she took her time, savoring the sensations- one movement at a time. And each time she felt her pleasure intensifying, she moaned through a kiss, trying to suppress herself from doing it too loudly- lest one of the soldiers nearby peek in to get a free show.
There were no words to describe all of the new sensations and pleasure that Jacen was experiencing. His hips gradually began to move in sync with Igna, only amplifying the.sensations further. He moan into her mouth while she moaned into his. The feeling of her warm, moist womanhood around his clock was more than he could handle. He could feel something building up deep inside of him, and though he didn't know much about sex, he had heard enough of the crude stories told by other soldiers to know what was coming.
To the outside world it would appear as if there were two shadows moving about from behind a series of crates, but the breaths they were making, the grunts as they rutted, would be distinguishable to anyone familiar with such a noise.
But the outside world, the soldiers, the cold, the snow, the blood, the war...
None of that mattered. All that mattered was the here and now-
and for her to finally open herself up completely to someone for the first time in her life.
The war had changed her, for better or for worse. Perhaps they should have waited, gotten closer, kissed longer-
But she regretted nothing in the moment, her body shivering with heat and suddenly her lips fell away from his and it looked as if she were about to scream.
Gods, this was heaven. And she was about to reach ecstasy.
Even in his wildest dreams Jacen had never imagined something could feel this mind-numbingly amazing. Of all the things he had ever done, what he was doing right now with Igna, he had absolutely no regrets. He was no longer alone in this world. He now had someone to so so spend time with; someone to love. He didn't care about the war. He didn't care about the soldiers on the other side of the crates that made up their little haven, because he was about to fully consummate his love to Igna.
"Igna," Jacen moaned softly. "I'm close."
She released a whimper at his words.
'I'm close.' And the very idea of it had her clinging to him tightly, saying nothing as she moved over him with need. He wasn't the only one ready for this, and as she bucked her hips wildly, she felt an explosion of pleasure course through her, heating her like the powerful force of a volcano as she had to seal her lips to his to muffle her scream.
As soon as Igna hit her climax, Jacen went over the edge as well. With one final thrust he emptied himself into Igna. His orgasm rocked his entire body and he grunted despite his best efforts to remain quiet. After what felt like forever, his body went limp as his climax subsided. It was the most incredible feeling he had ever experienced, and the fact that it was Igna who he had experienced it for the first time with made it even better. Jacen was practically drenched in sweat and he was breathing heavily as his heart pounded so violently that it was threatening to break his ribs.
"That...was...amazing," Jacen managed between breaths.
Her own heat was intense when she reached her peak, and she had almost not noticed the flooding of Jacen's seed flood within her- were it not for how tight her sex's wall was clamped around his hard dick, and the pulsating motion of her sex as she came. But she felt that hot seed soon enough, and it drove her orgasm even further than she could have thought, and she broke away from his kiss to gasp for air and release a satisfying moan, before she too, went limp into a nestled pile upon him- their bodies still joined as she lay there, head resting against his chest.
From here, she could feel his warmth, smell his sweat and musk, and hear the fast beating of his heart. Gods, this was heaven. It truly was, and at his words, she smiled and closed her eyes.
"I think it was something beyond amazing," she murmured, keeping her voice soft before releasing another gentle moan. Whatever this was that they had begun was starting to blossom into something wonderful- and she wondered how many more moments they'd get to share, how many years, if they survived this war- and what life might be like when the battle was all done and through.
After a moment of just basking in the aftermath, the feeling of true satisfaction, she breathed a sigh and nestled into him more closely.
"I'm sorry..." she whispered. "For... being kind of a jerk to you when we first met."
Had she but known he was sort of man she could fall for....
Then again, she had no experience on the matter, how could she know?
Jacen wrapped his arms around her and placed a kiss on her forehead.
"Don't worry about it," Jacen told her. "It's not like I wasn't asking for it."
As Jacen laid there with the woman he loved in his arms, he couldn't help but start thinking about their future. There was no doubt in his mind that he wanted to marry her, but he didn't know if she would want kids. Did Jacen even make enough money to support a family? Could he even afford a wedding?
Jacen sighed and decided not to worry about all of that right now. For now, he would just enjoy this moment here with Igna. He was determined to come out of this war alive, because now he had something, or someone, worth living for.
Despite trying to enjoy the moment and the after glow of their sex, she couldn't help but think more so into the future- and the very real fact that either of them could die. Recalling what Jacen had done for her- and how he was lucky enough to come out alive, put a cold feeling in her belly.
"Jacen?" she said, her voice soft as she peered up at him.
Jacen turned his head to look at Igna and lightly brushed her cheek with the back of his fingers.
"Yes?"
She smiled and reached up to touch the hand that was caressing her cheek. She stayed quiet a moment, staring up into his eyes, eyes moving as if reading him before she spoke.
"Promise me you won't do anything stupid in order to protect me. I'm as much of a soldier as you are. And we are in this war together." And she gave his hand a light squeeze.
They certainly were in this together- whether they liked it or not!
"You know that I can't just not protect you," Jacen said. "If I knew you were going to get hurt and didn't do anything about it, it eat would me alive. I don't want you to get hurt, especially not if I can help it."
She sighed but for a brief moment, said nothing more on the matter except smirk and mumble against his chest where her head lay, "Stubborn brat."
Jacen smiled and held Igna tighter against him.
"I haven't heard that in years," he commented.
After a few moments of silence, Jacen spoke again.
"Igna," he said softly. "Do you.... Do you think that....Nevermind."
After Jacen didn't finish his thought,s he lightly pinched his arm.
"Think that what?" she asked, a sleepy smile still curled upon her lips.
"Well, if....If we survive this and get married, do you think....I mean if you would want to start a family...do you think I'd be a good father?"
At such a question, Igna opened her eyes and blinked. Father? Marriage....
She hadn't thought much into the prospect of children, and fidgeted a bit where they lay. If anything- what they had just done....
They might not have an option, and she hadn't considered the consequences until now.
But him being good father? At that, she smiled, but did not look up at him.
"Of course. If anything, you might be too over protective," she said, that smile growing at the thought. "Especially if we were to have all daughters."
Jacen said nothing and simply laid there in thought. There was no doubt that he would be overprotective. Even he knew that. However, it was kind of odd to be asking such a question when there was another very important question that had not yet been answered.
"I know this might be an odd time to ask," Jacen began. "But would you marry me?"
Igna felt a thrill electrifying through her at the very question he asked. After a moment, she peered up at him, studying his face for a while in silence before giving him a small smile.
"If we live through all of this- yes."
Even though he had already sort of anticipated that she would say yes, he was still filled with incredible joy when she said yes. After everything that had happened all in this one night; Igna admitting that he loved, the consummation of their love, and now her agreeing to marry him, he could think of only one thing to say.
"I love you so much, Igna."
She couldn't erase the smile on her lips as much as she tried. And her mind was racing- so much had happened, and the only thing she could think of was to kiss him back.
"And I love you," she murmured against his lips as she kissed him again and peered into his eyes. "Stubborn Fool."
"I may be a stubborn fool," Jacen told her between kisses. "But I'm your stubborn fool."
At such a reply, her heart melted as she kissed him back. But their moment of bliss was marred only by the soft chuckling and low whistling from a few soldiers that had been resting nearby. She could barely make out them whispering to one another, saying, "Too bad there ain't more females in the army."
"Yeah, that couple in the corner is damn lucky."
And to over hear such a thing, her face turned completely red.
Jacen also heard what was being said and he blushed as well. He really hoped that they at least had enough respect to not peak in to their little crate fort and see what was going on.
"Well, they're right about one thing," Jacen said giving her a kiss. "I certainly am lucky."
Igna released a sigh and just let herself melt against him.
"Yeah..." she said, smirking. "You and me both."
"We better get some rest. We've had a long day."
Even though he was lying on a stone floor, he was more comfortable than he had ever been in any bed simply because he had Igna. The warmth of their bodies and the comfort brought by her presence would be more than enough for him to get the first full nights sleep that he hasn't had in ages.
Igna nodded, sighing again as she closed her eyes.
After a moment, she smirked, realizing she was still ontop of him.
"You make a comfy bed," she said, playfully in a half sleepy state. Though after a moment, she realized....
"Er.. I hate to ruin the moment, btu perhaps we ought to get dressed first?"
"Perhaps," Jacen replied. "I can be your bed just as well with clothes on as without."
Igna smirked.
"As much as I could too, do you really want some soldier peaking in on us when we're not dressed?"
"Not really, no," Jacen replied. "That would be quite embarrassing. You're going to have to let me up, though."
Igna gave a half smile.
"I'll see what I can do. THe space here is rather small. I'm surprised we were able to remove our clothing to begin with. But I guess where there's a will, there's a way." And she scooted off of him to the best of her ability and raked a hand through her knotted, white blonde hair.
Well, at least she would sleep good once they got dressed and comfortable. But between her legs was a bit sore, and her thighs felt like jello. She supposed this was just how it was on the first time one made love. She'd take it. It was worth it. And so was he.
It took so clever maneuvering within the tight space, but Jacen did eventually manage to fully clothe himself once more. When he was done, he laid back down on the floor.
"I'm done," Jacen told Igna, spreading his arms. "I can be your bed again."
Igna was.still struggling getting dressed and sighed when he said he was done.
"I'm still working on mine. You mind helping me with these laces? They're such a pain in the ass."
Jacen got up and began working on the troublesome laces. They were indeed quite a pain, but he was managing.
"This seems like a lot of extra work," Jacen told her. "Why not just wear a normal shirt?"
Igna sighed, almost snorted really, before she shook her head.
"Women's fashion... go figure. But to be honest, it's the only thing that helps make breasts more manageable beneath my armor. Believe me, when I'm at home, I normally wear some of my father's shirts. You men have it easy. Your clothing is so comfortable. Then again, skirts are rather nice as well.... but, not exactly practical battle field attire," she went on wtih a shrug. And once the laces were all done, she smiled and turned to him. "Thanks."
"My pleasure," Jacen replied. "Is that everything, or are there more clothing rituals to perform before we go to bed?"
Igna chuckled softly as she shook her head and kissed his cheek.
"No, I think we are quite done with that for now. Unless you had energy for a second round," she teased, just before yawning as she nestled up against him.
"As tempting as that sounds, I don't think I have it in me," Jacen told her. "Near-death experiences take a lot out of you."
Jacen wrapped his arms around Igna and held her close. He wanted to tell her goodnight and that he loved her, but he was so exhausted that he just fell right to sleep the moment she was in his arms.
By the time morning came, Igna slept through any semblance of a call to move on. It was a series of soldiers that found them as they were getting ready to leave that they gave a light kick to the crates and told the pair, "We're going to move on. We need as much help as we can get to load the carts full of what supplies remain." And he left it at that, and as the words sunk in, Igna groggily lifted her head- almost forgetting what happened but blushing the second she saw Jacen- and then recalled what had happened that night.
Jacen's eyes slowly forced themselves open after the wakeup call given by the soldiers. He couldn't remember the last time that he had slept that well. His eyes soon fell upon Igna and he smiled.
"Hi," he said. "Did you sleep well?"
She nodded, wiping the sleep from her eyes.
"Yeah. I feel like I slept like the dead. If I had a choice, I'd just sleep here all day."
"Unfortunately we don't have that choice," Jacen said with a sigh. "We better get moving."
Igna nodded, feeling a bit awkward after what they had done,a nd thinking back to it, her cheeks heated thoroughly as she grabbed up her supplies and began to strap them over her back. But she said nothing, trying to refocus- trying to remind herself she was a soldier. And it was time to act like one again.
Once she was ready, she gave a nod to Jacen.
"I suppose we should see where we are of best help. Come, I see one of the captain's over there."
Jacen grabbed his things and climbed out of the little crate fort. He was going back to war now. Despite how wonderful the previous night had been, he was still in the middle of a war. It was going to be more difficult to fight worrying about Igna all of the time now, but he would have to do his best to stay focused on staying alive himself.
The pair found themselves helping to place food rations onto a cart. It seemed there was more than enough here for the army and then some- considering there was food that fueled both the Fort and the three large mage camps that had once been protected within. And despite the casualties, it seems the number of Duke Blaith Harmond's army grew-
for some mages that escaped believed they owed him their life, and were moving about through the soldiers to see where they might be of some help.
And it was while Igna was hefting up a large sack of flour did a familiar face appear-
It was the healer from earlier.
"I see you two survived the night!" he said, all smiles and polite.
"Yeah," Igna gave a nod, feeling a bit awkward as she thought about the idea she was no longer a virgin- and suddenly engaged. Yeah, surviving somehow seemed of less importance than that, especially since at first- it felt strange to walk after the morning had come. Even still, she tried to act casually as she inquired, "So you've decided to stay and help the cause?"
The man nodded.
"Yep. I figured my ability is better to serve here. What this army is doing.... I want to support it. You might not know it, or maybe you do, but the way the world views this war now that a duchy is standing against the Grand Duke..... I believe that will change as well. Maybe other duchies will feel the same or withdraw.... Either way, I still owe you, and the entire army, a big thanks."
Igna gave an awkward smile in return, trying to hide her face as she went on to gather more flour.
"Yeah, well.." she grunted, hefting the flour from one hip to the other. "I think Jacen and I owe you more than a thanks, too."
"Jacen?" he said, then raised his brows questionably at the rifleman he had healed earlier, and gave the man a crooked grin.
"My name's Jacen, by the way," Jacen told the man with a grin. "I never properly thanked you for what you did for me, so thank you."
And after what had taken place last night, he was exceptionally grateful. If he had died, last night would have never taken place.
"It's nice to be reminded that what we're doing is worthwhile."
The man gave a nod.
"Well, Jacen, you're welcome," he said, giving him a crooked smile. "It's the least I can do. And if you two should run into me again, you can call me Dalph. Everybody does," he went on with a shrug. "I suppose my real name of Rudolph is a bit too long winded to say?" He didn't know but gave a good natured chuckle.
ANd it was about that time Igna finished loading the cart with flour as she turned to the man and extended a hand for him to shake.
"Igna... Igna Martisse," she said. "In case we meet again."
And the man shook it, and chuckled when he realized he just got flour on his hands from Igna's gloves.
She blushed and promptly apologized, but the man waved it off. "It ain't no big deal. A little flour never hurt anyone."
Jacen didn't really have much else to say. He owed this healer a greater debt than the old man could ever imagine, for it was because of this man's kindness that all of last night's events were able to take place. Not only that, but that crooked smile of his and the joy of his freedom gave Jacen a renewed purpose. He looked at all of the newly liberated mages and how happy and relieved they were to finally be free. This was why he was fighting. And some day, this war would be over and then everyone could be as happy and relieved as these mages were. He might not be a soldier and he might question himself every now and again, but what he was doing did not go unnoticed. Perhaps this was the right thing to do after all.
When the work was all done, the army was called to barracks where the Duke of Turgall was said to give them a speech and his next plan of action. Drawing in a careful breath, she exhaled, a white stream of breath escaping her lips before she began to make her way towards the barracks, and chanced only one glance over to Jacen. It seemed their moment of paradise would be just that, it was time to get back to war.
Jacen stuck close to Igna as they made their way to the barracks where the Duke of Turgall would be addressing them. He was going to stay by her side as long as possible until they would have to fight again, especially since this might be the only time they will get to spend together.
The barracks were quite crowded, and though they were lucky enough to get inside, she began to feel a bit claustrophobic being so close to so many people in just one, inclosed area. She tried her best to keep close to Jacen, but two soldiers managed to push between them- and not on purpose, but as Igna stumbled forward, she turned to look over her shoulder-hoping to see Jacen not too far away.
It quickly became apparent that the barracks was too small for all of them to fit. Jacen was used to tight spots, but he was not to happy with being separated from Igna. He stood in his tiptoes to try to find her in the crowd. She wasn't too far away, but Jacen was having a very hard time trying to squeeze through the crowd to get to her.
Two men being between them soon turned to four, and then more as the soldiers continued to crowd into the room. Eventually, the one's who hadn't entered were instructed to remain inside, for fear of true over crowding.
Even still, Igna was not fond of this at all, and her eyes desperately searched for where Jacen had gone.
Jacen continued his frantic search for his fiancé, but to no avail. There were too many other soldiers in the way, and they were tall too. Jacen sighed and gave up the search. She was on the other end of the barracks by now for all he knew. He would have to find her later.
Finally she spotted Jacen among the men. How she was able to was beyond her as she tried to wave an arm to get his attention, but then a taller man stepped inbetween them and Igna's shoulder's dropped.
She couldn't recall the last time she felt like this- to panic when not near someone. And though part of her feared this relationship, she began to wonder if this was how her life was to be. She did say she loved him, but she never knew quite as much until after it was already professed. And internally, she was wondering if it really was love she professed, or just a heat of the moment. But as her eyes tried to find him again, she reassured herself-
Yes, it had to be love. And she dind't wnat to waste what little time they might have together being apart. So evne after the crowd had stopped moving and the Duke had began to speak, Igna tried to find Jacen once again int he crowd and slowly began to push her way towards him. And when she found herself already at his side, her face brightened immensely as she released a sigh and stood in line next to him.
Thankfully the pair were near the back, beside a wall, and as she stood near him, she kept her eyes glued to the duke as her gloved hand sought his and gave it a comforting squeeze.
To comfort herself as well as him.
Jacen had given up all hoped of finding Igna. There was no way he would finder her in this crowd, so he stood alone. Even as the duke began to speak, Jacen simply gazed wistfully at the back of the man in front of him. Soon, however, he felt a hand slip into his own. His head immediately snapped in the direction of the hand's owner and Jacen grinned as he saw it was Igna. Jacen returned the squeeze, but he still couldn't see the duke past the man in front of him. Regardless, he felt happy and relieved to have Igna by his side again, and he was determined to stay at her side as much as possible before the next battle required them to be apart once again.
She tried her damnedest to listen to her duke, but her thoughts kept pulling her towards Jacen, and after a moment, she finally looked his way, and found herself studying his face, as if to commit each detail about it to memory.
As if sensing Igna's eyes on him, Jacen turned his head to Igna and smiled. He let go of Igna's hand and put his arm around her shoulder, holding her close. He had no idea what the duke was even talking about. He was to busy paying attention to Igna.
Though she knew they ought to pay attention, it seemed the discussion was going on for ages, and though her listening ear came in and out of the conversation, she found herself leaning in more closely, and wishing things were as they were last night, where all she could hear was his breathing, and the beating of his heart.
"I have no idea what he's talking about," Jacen whispered with a smile. "I hope it isn't important."
She gave a laugh, that came out in a breath through her nose. She leaned forward, stealing a kiss to his cheek.
"I bet it is."
"You're the only thing that's important to me," Jacen told her.
Igna gave him a leftward grin.
"You sure about that? This war seems to be bigger than all of us."
"I'm positive," he assured her. "No matter how big this war gets and no matter how many times we have to go through hell and back, I will always be thinking of you."
"That's quite a confession," she told him as she gave his hand a squeeze. "Though to be honest, I fear the same thing to."
"I promise you that I will find you again when this is all over," Jacen told her. "I'm not going to let anything tear us apart. I just found you, I'm not going to lose you."
Igna gave a half smile at that, and wanted to believe him but even she had her doubts. She was never much of a dreamer, and the realist in her only soured the nice moment. But she didn't spoil it for him and kept quiet and close, just giving a light squeeze to his hand as she tried her damnedest to pay attention. But it was hard. She had a lot on her mind.
Not surprisingly, Jacen also had his doubts. There were many ways to end up dead in the middle of a war. There was no telling if Jacen, or Igna, would end up being a victim of one of the numerous ways. Jacen tried not to think about all of that though. He wanted to focus on both of them living through it. Perhaps it would give him the strength to carry on through this war to the end.
Igna perked up on part of the duke's conversation.
"Looks like some of us will remain in Ajhfeld. Seems we're going to keep the duchy as.conquered territory. ". She supposed that was wise. If Blaith didn't enforce his own rules, who knows who'd try to take the throne. At least that way, the army would be gone and military rule in place. But Igna wasn't sure if she wanted to end up as an Ahjfeld guard. This wasn't familiar territory, but she supposed if she wad assigned to it, she'd obey.
The moment Jacen heard that he began praying to Ansgar that both he and Igna would be chosen to stay behind. That way, they wouldn't have to worry about fighting anymore. They could just be together like they wanted.
"I wouldn't mind doing that," Jacen remarked. "I'm tired of killing."
Igna frowned at.him but didn't look his way.
"Staying here won't guarantee we won't fight."
"It won't guarantee that we will either," Jacen replied. "I just want to be done this damn war."
Igna squeezed his hand, feeling his impatience mounting.
"Just know, no matter what happens, Jacen, we're doing the right thing."
This wasn't just for themselves, but their families they left behind- and for the potential family they wanted to start in the years to come.
Jacen sighed.
"I hope you're right," he said solemnly.
With everything he was putting at risk: his life, his family, and now he had to risk losing Igna. He certainly hoped this was the right thing to do. He hoped that all of this would matter in the end. Then maybe it would all be worth it.
It was then Igna heard Duke Harmond's announcement- That the Green Regiment will remain here, along with the Gold, but the rest will go with Duke Harmond West. And Igna had to wonder....
Did that mean they would be split up? Her regiment was just assigned to remain here, yet Jacen was apart of 'the others'.
Jacen had no idea what regiment he was in, so he didn't know that significance of what the duke had just announced.
"What regiment am I in," Jacen asked hoping that Igna would know.
Igna gave an anxious sigh.
"That's it. You're not in one, remember? You weren't officially part of Blaith's army... And it's those men he's going to take with him as he marches west."
"What regiment are you in," Jacen asked.
"Green."
She shifted uncomfortably.
"My regiment is to remain at the Fort."
Jacen felt his blood run cold. They would be separated. He was glad that Igna would stay behind, because he knew that she would be safe, but he would have to leave and go fight. What if something happened to him? Who would tell Igna? Would she spend the rest of her life waiting for him to return? What if......What if the events of the previous night had left Igna with child? There was no way to be sure, but it wasn't outside the realm of possibility. Their child would have to grow up without a father.
Jacen went pale and slumped back against the wall as his mind was bombarded by all of these thoughts. This couldn't be happening.
Knowing what his silence entailed, as similar thoughts were running through her head, she leaned in close to him, and stole a soft, quick kiss to his cheek.
"Hey.. we'll figure this out. Maybe we can talk someone into letting you stay..... Or maybe I can find a way to join you."
"No," Jacen replied. "If I can't stay you're still not going. If you stay here I'll at least know that you're safe. It'll be one less thing on my mind."
Igna gave him a hard stare.
"But if I don't go... who will watch your back?"
And who would watch hers? And this new feeling she had towards him, it only fueled her fear even greater.
"There must be a way we can still remain together. What if.." ANd she hesitated, licking her dry lips.
"What if we told them we were married? Or to be married? And that we'd like to stay unparted?"
Jacen mulled over her suggestion for a moment.
"Would that work," he asked.
"I don't know. But it's worth a try."
"Alright," Jacen said with a sigh. "So who would we say this to."
Igna bit her lip, scanning the crowd.
"Perhaps the General, or a captain, or someone in charge," she went on, but even she knew little of the protocols of war.
"Ok," Jacen said. "So where can we find of them?"
Igna tried to remain calm, but it was hard to let the fear they'd be separated subside.
"Let's.. let's just get out of here and see if we can't find one who's organizing this chaos." For right now, every man looked exactly the same, and she didn't wish to be in this confining place any longer. But there was quite a crowd around them, and trying to move...
It seemed the pair might have to wait.
Jacen nodded and held onto Igna's hand tightly in order to avoid becoming separated again. If this was to be the last time they saw each other he wanted it to last for as long as possible.
She was feeling antsy, and as each moment ticked by, she craved the freedom of the open air. But the sea of men moving seemed endless, and her hands went clammy beneath her gloves. It wasn't until there was a brief opening among the moving men that she took a chance and moved, tugging Jacen along with her, into the crowd.
Jacen simply held on tightly to Igna as they made their way through the seemingly endless sea of bodies. Surely there had to be an exit somewhere.
As they pressed onward, the men who had taken up seats on a nearby set of stone stairs, now vacated them. And Igna was close enough to pull Jacen along with her towards them, where she paused to catch her breath and leaned against the wall.
"The war will be the least of our worries if we can't even make it out of here alive," Jacen commented.
At that, Igna sighed through a smile and gave a tug to his arm, forcefully dragging him up a few stairs before she kissed his lips.
"Might as well make the most of it," she told him with a smile, before sealing her lips to his again. "It could be the last moment we get.."
Jacen returned her smile, though his was a little more solemn as it very well could be the last moment they ever got.
"Might as well," Jacen replied.
He then placed his hands on her waist and pulled her into a deep kiss.
The kiss sent a wave of warmth and feelings throughout her, making her heart flutter nearly out of her chest. And not just the taste of the kiss set her off, but the very real fear of what she could now lose- something she hadn't counted on before. And so she continued to kiss him, and kiss him with need.
Jacen sensed Igna's need and returned the kiss with equal vigor. His hands moved from her hips as his arms wrapped tightly around her.
The moment was thrilling and intoxicating, but where as before the two could share a true, intimate union, they'd have to settle for simply making out on the stairs. But that didn't stop Igna from appreciating her fiance to the fullest she could, as her own hands moved up his back and down his arms, while lips locked back to his she panted, kissed, and breathed.
Jacen could feel his excitement mounting, but he knew that they could not go any further than what they were doing now. Jacen held himself back and simply allowed Igna's hands and lips free reign of his body and earnestly returned whatever Igna gave him.
It was than a commanding officer, as evident by the banners that decked out his uniform, came down the steps with a few men. He halted, observing the pair before clearing his throat.
"Need a room?" he said-
and at those words, Igna froze before pulling away from Jacen.
"Sir! I-" and she tried her best to be at attention but- well, it was more than embarrassing to be caught like this.
The man eyed the two young lovers with interest.
"We all have reasons to celebrate, no one would... notice if you were to disappear upstairs," he said with a boyish grin. But Igna had no idea how to reply to that. Was the man really encouraging them to...
And the very thought made even her ears turn red.
Jacen had also frozen in place when they were caught and offered no resistance when Igna pulled away. He also cleared his throat and tried to act casual despite being caught. Despite his embarrassment, though, he couldn't help but chuckle at how red Igna's ears got.
Noticing that this was a commanding officer, Jacen quickly spoke up.
"Excuse me, sir," Jacen began. "But could I ask you question...er...more like a favor?"
It was then the man turned to Jacen, while Igna was still too embarrassed to speak.
"What? A private room not good enough?" he told him in good humor.
"Not quite," Jacen replied remaining serious. "You see, we are engaged, but when the army splits we will be separated. I was wondering if there was a way we could remain together."
The guard captain let the words digest, looking the pair over before stating, "And go against the rulings stated by Duke Harmond?"
And that's when Igna finally chimed in.
"Y-yes.. but not against his goals, we just..."
And the man looked at both of them before folding his arms across his chest.
"Engaged or not, war is war. You both knew that when you signed up."
"I didn't sign up for anything," Jacen told him slightly angered now. "I'm a volunteer. I don't have to be here, but here I am. Don't I get at least a little appreciation for that?"
"Volunteers have agreed to obey our Duke's orders..."A nd he studied Jacen a moment before looking to Igna.
"How long have you two been engaged?"
And here, Igna bit her lip. Not certain how to answer him.
"We're.. recently engaged, sir."
His eyes continued to study them.
"You both look rather young..."
And it was here, Igna took a step forward, hoping to implore him.
"Please... we ask very little against what is asked of us. We are not asking to drop out of the army.."
"But you are asking to go against orders," The man shot back. "We'd be in chaos if not for the few rules we are all to abide by."
"War is chaos," Jacen retorted. "It's all about unsung heroes and forgotten faces, acts of courage that go unnoticed by all but those who were present. No one will notice or even care if one of us is out of place."
The man frowned and noticed his men waiting with him were getting antsy.
"You know, you aren't the only ones suffering from this war. A lot of the men, good men, can't be with their wives during these terrible times."
"At least they know their wives are safe at home," Jacen replied. "My fiancé is going to actually be fighting."
"And who's to say their wives aren't fighting as we speak? Boy, we don't know much of what's going on outside of what scout's report to us and what we see with our own eyes."
But even as he argued, he sighed and looked the pair over.
"You know.. you're still lucky you're even allowed to be with her this far... you, being a 'volunteer' and you..." and he looked the woman over. "A female soldier. And as a soldier.. you were drilled with what was expected."
"Please.. I know what you must be thinking..."
And as she pressed the man looked towards the other men behind him who were eyeing Igna up.
"Look.. nothing comes without a price," the man stated simply. "You're a woman among many.... men. Men who.. need things. If you're.. willing to help a few of my men in need, i'll reassign you to where ever you'd like. If not,t he best thing I can spare for you two is the room upstairs- then you two to get on your way."
Igna froze at the idea. A woman...
among men?
Did he really expect her to just... just... give herself to these soldiers?
"No," Jacen nearly shouted. "I will not have my fiancé be used like a whore!"
"I wouldn't call it being a whore. You're a man. You should understand," the captain said simply. "It's doing a duty as a woman.. besides, if she's to be your wife, you'll have to learn when and where to make sacrifices. Besides, it's not like she's marrying these men. And if you do agree... well, I suppose you could watch so no funny business. But you'd be surprised what a little sex can do for moral." And stepping in closer, he whispered to Jacen, "And I can find a way to get your woman out of this war and back home.. where's it safe."
"No," Jacen repeated. "I've had to sacrifice many things in this war. My health, my family, my sanity; but I will not use my fiancé as a bargaining chip."
"Very well, then there's nothing I can do for you now is there." And he moved to walk past them, Igna grit her teeth before calling out. "Wait..."
And the Captain turned to look at her.
"What if... we made another.. sort of deal."
Jacen turned to Igna with a quizzical look on his face.
"What kind of deal," he asked her.
Igna's cheeks burned. She couldn't look at Jacen.
"We can... talk about our options. But in private. This stair way isn't the best place to be doing any sort of deals."
And then she shot an apologetic look towards Jacen, even though she had yet to reveal what her ideas were just yet. She had a feeling he wouldn't be so happy.
Jacen gave Igna a suspicious look when he saw her apologetic expression.
"Igna, what are you planning," Jacen asked.
The captain looked the pair over, then looked at Igna.
"All of us?" And his eyes lingered over her form. "Or are we just talking to you?"
"Igna, what are planning," Jacen asked again.
He really didn't like the look on her face. It worried him.
She couldn't not tell Jacen, and her hand went out to his as her eyes finally met his with sincerity.
"Look... I don't have to... bed the men to get what we need," she whispered.
And the captain cleared his throat.
"Come join us upstairs or this conversation is closed."
Tossing Jacen an apologetic look, she turned to follow the captain and his men- though it seemed pretty open if Jacen wanted to follow.
Jacen tightened his grip on his rifle and followed them upstairs. He didn't know what Igna was planning, but Jacen was fully prepared to shoot someone if need be.
The captain lead them into a storage room, that more or less appeared to have already been ransacked by the army. But a few chairs remained, two of which were turned over and wobbly, but they'd suffice. It was when they were inside the room, all of them, did Igna request for them to close the door.
Once alone, Igna stood there, studying the captain and the hand full of men he had with him, and kept her shoulder's square with Jacen.
"As a soldier, I realize there are many hats to be worn during battle. And after those last two victories, the men are anxious, excited even," she began, evenly. "Women in these scenarios are rare, I know. I've been warned what that might entail, and if I weren't engaged, we wouldn't be having this conversation. But as you can all see, your.... deal does not sit well with him."
And she looked at each man carefully. "Or with me. I'm a soldier, same as the rest of you. And I understand that well... men have different needs then women. But as my fiance told you, I'm not a whore. I didn't join the army to give my body away to any soldier that needed. That being said, even being asked to do such an act.... I have to ask myself what sort of military commander would go out of his way to put a woman in this position."
The captain eyed Igna up.
"Lady, your correct in a lot of your assumptions, but get to the point? I'm a busy man."
"My point is- would you ask your own sister, daughter, wife... lover... to just.. just give herself to the men of the army after she makes a small request?"
"Small request?" At that, the captain shot out of his chair, red faced with anger. "You are going out of your way to request things against the duke's order and you have the gall to try to turn this back to me? Look- I'm doing you both a favor by even offering. Now I know it sounds like i"m being a dog, but this is war. And Angsar almighty- it's just a small handful of men! I'm sure you've bedded more men than this before you were both even engaged! And it ain't like you're married."
The man shook his head, still not believing this.
"So what's it going to be? Or did you just want to bring me up here to give me a lecture?"
"Don't you dare talk to her like that," Jacen roared. "You know she's right! You'd should be ashamed of yourself! What is your answer to her question?! Would you ask you own sister, daughter, or wife to do such a thing?!"
Jacen positioned himself between Igna and the men in the room and cocked his rifle. He was making his position clear. Whoever tried to get close to Igna would be shot.
The captain glared at Jacen.
"Put the rifle down, son. Or go ahead and shoot- see where it gets you. If you want to be hanged, by all means."
Not taking a chance on Jacen's temper, Igna placed a hand on his shoulder.
"He's right... Don't do anything foolish, Jacen. Please." she squeezed his shoulder. "He could have us both killed."
"Of course I'm right. Now put that gun away before you hurt someone."
"I damn well will hurt someone," Jacen said. "I'll hurt anyone who dare lay a hand on my fiancé."
Jacen then turned to Igna.
"Let's get out of here. I'm done with this bullshit."
"So you're abandoning the army?" the captain called after the two as they headed towards the door.
"We'll see," Jacen replied as he walked out the door.
Igna followed, but each step they took hammered the idea they'd both be branded as traitors. All of this for just one small request? It seemed ridiculous, and her head was spinning so much over the idea she nearly tripped heading back down the stairs. Thankfully she managed to catch herself on Jacen.
And thankfully Jacen managed to catch himself on the railing. Jacen turned around and saw the look on Igna's face.
"I'm sorry about all that," he said.
Igna said nothing, simply shook her head.
"Just.. let's just keep moving."
Jacen sighed and continued down the stairs. His sister had always told him that he was over-protective. She was right. Now there was no way they would be able to stay together. Not to mention the trouble that they were probably now in for Jacen threatening a superior officer. He hadn't been kidding though. He truly would have shot the captain if he had had to.
Once they had made it down the staircase, most of the crowd had thinned, so it was easier for the pair to move along with the rest. And when they finally did manage to get outside, Igna had an uneasy feeling that made her stomach tangle itself into knots. And her uneasiness was clearly written on her face as she looked around, as if worried the Captain had followed.
Once they got outside Jacen checked on Igna again and saw the worried expression on her face.
"Igna, what's wrong," he asked again.
Turning to Jacen, her frown deepened.
"I'm just worried... After what just happened, we could get in a lot of trouble."
Him, especially.
"We should just be careful.. and avoid that man at all costs if we can." She'd hate to have to deal with the repercussions later- or for the man to even bring up such a suggestion again.
"Yeah, probably," Jacen agreed. "But I'm not going to just let anyone have their way with you. I don't regret what did, but I probably could have handled it a bit better."
It was then she placed her hand over Jacen's, then took it into her own and gave it a squeeze.
"You did nothing wrong. I...... thank you for that. I don't know what I would have done had... that situation been presented to me if I were alone. I've been warned about what happens to women in the army... that part of their duty requires more than just... to fight along side the men, but I never truly believed it."
Until now.
"Well you won't have to worry about it now," Jacen assured her. "I won't let anyone hurt you. I promise."
Igna sighed and turned to him, and looked at him, really looked at him with a deepened frown.
"I'm not worried about me..."
She sighed.
"I'm worried about you."
Jacen gave Igna a confused look.
"Me? Why?"
She cut him a look.
"For some of the same reasons you worry about me. Jacen, I know I don't need to remind you we're at war.. but its a very real possibility either of us could die."
Jacen sighed.
"I know," he replied sadly. "I've nearly done so already."
Igna simply took his hand and moved with him in silence, studying the men all working diligently together around the fort as she frowned.
"Word has it the Duke will move on with his men come tomorrow morning- after his troops are organized and refreshed."
"So this might be the last night we ever spend together," Jacen said sadly.
At that, Igna frowned and turned her gaze to him. Her eyes spoke volumes but she dare not utter a word, lest she agree to what he said and it come true. But the fear was there, the worry.. the sadness.
Without another word, Jacen simply wrapped his arms around Igna and pulled her close to him. He just wanted to embrace her. Tears welled up in his eyes at the thought of never seeing her again. He didn't want to lose her. He couldn't lose her. Igna was the best thing to have ever happened to him, so he was going to just hold her for as long as possible.
Igna was not surprised by his gesture, even though she grew rigid at first in response. But that was quickly replaced with a hug in reply. But it was then, at this closeness that she could not only smell the salt of his tears, she could feel them, and her dark eyes peered at his face, her expression twisting into confusion. All of this... just for her? It seemed ridiculous, but in the same moment... she only wished she could cry. But just like the world around them, her emotions felt so cold, so hidden away, like the grass beneath them- too afraid to come out for fear the world would cripple it's growth, as heavy snowfall always did.
Jacen noted her confused expression.
"What is it," he asked with a sniffle.
"It's nothing," she said quietly, trying to hide her face. "I just..."
But before she could get out a word, a trumpet sounded for the announcement of the troops to depart westward to check in at the south gate. At this, she stared over towards where the announcement had come from, tears threatening her eyes, but she tried to play it off with a simple brushing of her hands. Yes.. perhaps it was just the winds that stung her eyes...
And not this parting fate.
Jacen didn't have much of a choice but to follow Igna to the source of the trumpet sound. He was curious as to what it was she was about to say, but he was unsure if he would ever find out.
Numbly, Igna took his hand and guided him away. So many thoughts plagued her that by the time they were at the location the solider's were to meet, she felt herself inwardly panic as she halted in mid-stride.
Jacen was growing more and more concerned. What was wrong with Igna? Why wouldn't she tell him? He decided it would be best not to bother her. She'll tell him when she's good and ready to. It would still bother him though.
She could feel Jacen's question breathing like a hot fire over her shoulder. The tension was killer, she knew that, and as she frantically searched the crowds, she saw the Captain from earlier. Of course it figured he was the man in charge of checking the soldier's ranks and deviate orders.
Releasing a breath, she nodded to Jacen.
"Let's get you in line." And she squeezed his hand before moving forward as the pair now stood in the long, uneasy line. And their presence was not missed by that Captain as he gave them a dark smile.
Jacen gave the Captain a scowl in return. He didn't like that man. He didn't like him at all. Jacen looked down the line. It seemed as if nearly the entire army was there.
The wait in line felt like an eternity, and it didn't help that the captain's eyes continued to bore into the pair of them. Igna wished she could wipe that look clean off his face, and when someone bumped into them from behind and copped a feel from Igna on 'accident'- she had absolutely no patience for it. Grabbing the man by the arm, she twisted it until it was painfully pinned against his back, and snarled in his face.
"That was no accident!" she growled.
"What did he do," Jacen asked angrily. "Did he touch you?!"
The soldier had a pretty big friend at his side, and once he saw the commotion, he snarled and intervened. Grabbing Igna by the hand, he proceeded to, none too gently, twist her arm off of his friends.
"The bitch is crazy! The crowd is thick! And I can't help it if she purposely stepped in my way!" the first soldier spat, all ruffled and ready for a fight.
Igna couldn't believe this, and by Angsar's name did her arm hurt!
"Let go of me!"
Jacen was enraged when he saw the bigger man grab Igna.Without warning, he swung his rifle and clubbed the bigger man over the head with it.
"Let go of her!"
Things escalated - and fast. A fight broke out, and Igna didn't get out of it without a bruise to her stomach and a fat lip. And though it smarted, what smarted the worst was to see just who stopped the fight. It was the captain from earlier.
And when he inquired as to what was going on, naturally he bought the other men's stories that Igna and Jacen were causing trouble. He simply gestured for them to follow him, and reluctantly, Igna did as told.
Jacen remained close to Igna. His head might be pounding and his nose might be bloody, but he inflicted plenty of damage of his own. Of course the Captain would listen to those other soldiers instead of them, but Jacen wasn't going down without a fight. He knew how it really happened.
"We can't have any one causing an uprising. Yes, times are tough," the man began, giving Igna and Jacen a gruff glare. "But that's no excuse for soldiers to fight amongst themselves. To ensure you're all cooled off, we're going to keep you here, and keep guard of you, until we get our official orders. That ought to give you some time to think about what you have done."
And by here, it was evident it was a small room not meant for more than one or two people- and it seemed the man was directing this to Igna, and only to her.
Jacen wiped some of the blood from his nose and turned to Igna.
"Are you okay," he asked. "Anything serious?"
Igna gave him a look, and didn't have a chance to reply when the Captain grabbed her roughly by the arm.
"That's an order, soldier!" the man snapped. And Igna gave one last look to Jacen before she was shoved into the small room, the door closed, separating them. Her stomach sank the moment she heard the door locked, and she moved over towards the slats and tried to peer outside.
She could barely make out a thing, but could hear their voices. And the captain, from what she could hear, was telling Jacen to move on.
Jacen tried as hard as he could. Igna would hear Jacen flinging many insults and even a few punches as he resisted the separation. Jacen was soon apprehended by three men before being taken away, still kicking and screaming.
Her breath caught in her throat.
"Jacen.." But as much as she tried to peer out to see what was going on, she wasn't tall enough to reach the barred window, and was forced to hear the scuffle instead. That only elicited the worst possible scenarios in her mind. She could hear the fight, the sore words, feel the sore skin of a strike, and prayed fervently to Angsar that this just stop.
And a moment later, just like that, all went quiet. Igna paused, her breath trembling. She moved away from the door slowly before peering up at the tiny barred window.
"J-Jacen?"
There was silence.
Yet a moment later, there came a voice.
"Jacen has been.... escorted out."
And the familiar voice of the captain sent a chill up her spine.
Jacen was outside in the snow after have been literally thrown outside by his 'escort'. They took the time to give him quite a beating beforehand, however. Everything hurt, but the physical pain didn't even come close to the pain of being separated from Igna. The message had been clear. He was to wait outside. If he went back in he would undoubtedly receive the same treatment he had just gotten only to be thrown out again. He sat down in the snow and felt tears begin welling up in his eyes.
The men were beginning to head out, under the Duke of Turgall's orders. Those left behind were still well at work securing the fortress and even starting to work on repairing and finalizing the construction on the portion of the wall that had never been finished. Blaith Harmond was no fool. He knew well enough that once he lifted his sword, there was no going back.
This was his fate. This was his life.
However, as men began to gather and another soldier noticed Jacen, he stopped to ask him, "Hey.. you part of the troops moving out? We got to get going soon. Before they march on without us."
"I'm coming," Jacen replied solemnly.
He made no move to get up though. There was no way he was going anywhere without at least saying goodbye to Igna. As soon as the soldier left him alone, he was going to try and sneak in and talk to Igna one last time.
But the second the men dispersed....
Igna was there, standing tall with solemn eyes and a washed out appearance. Her eye was swelling and looked painful, as well as a few other cuts and bruises across her face. But the second she saw Jacen, it appeared as if she were trying to steel herself, but her eyes threatened to expose the truth of the pain she was swallowing up deep inside.
The moment Jacen laid eyes on Igna he got to his feet, walked over to her, and embraced her without saying a word. He just stood there with his arms around her not speaking and not moving. He just wanted to stay like this forever, never letting her go.
She stood stock still as he embraced her, cringing even as tears broke free from her eyes and began to roll down her cheeks. And not even seconds later, she found her arms moving around his as she buried her face into his shoulder and whispered,
"I'm coming with you. I'm moving out with you and the other soldiers."
"Then at least we'll be together," Jacen whispered back. "Even it is into battle."
Jacen stepped back from Igna and gently wiped a tear from her cheek.
"I promise I won't let anything hurt you. I will protect you."
It felt like a spike dropped into her belly, her lips trembling at such a gesture. But could she tell him? Could she confess what had happened for her to be here? No...
She let that suffering rot in her gut as she took his hand and gave it a tight squeeze.
"We're here for one thing and that is to fight, and to fight for what we know, what we love and what we want to change."
"What I know is that I want to be with you," Jacen told her. "What I love is you. And what I want to change is Connlaoth, to end this war so that we can live peacefully together."
At such words she could not speak, her lips trembling even more as fat, hot tears rolled down her cheeks.
"Gods, Jacen..."
And she threw herself into him, burying her face into his shoulder as she sobbed.
Throughout his entire life, Jacen was constantly pondering his actions, wondering whether or not he was doing the right thing, constantly filled with regret. This, however, this was different. If this is what it was all leading up to, if meeting Igna had been Ansgar's plan for him all this time, then it was all worth it. There was no second-guessing, no pondering, no rethinking. He was absolutely certain that what this was, what he and Igna had, was real and wonderful.
It was at that moment that he vowed to himself that he would do anything and everything in his power to care for Igna and make her happy. He would win this entire war by himself if he had to. For so long he had been unsure of why he was fighting, but now his purpose was clear: Igna. She would be why fought, she would be the driving force behind everything he did. Then after this was all over, he was going to marry her. Of this he was absolutely certain.
"I'll never let you go," he whispered, tears rolling down his own cheeks as this flood of emotions surged through him.
It felt like a long walk to no where. And with an army marching through snow and storm, they were sluggish. Making camp out in the woods was anything but pleasant, and the soldiers all kept together to huddle for warmth, while small camp fire's crackled in the night.
She was relieved, however, that she got to share this journey with Jacen. Even if it costed her a part of her humanity. But what humanity was left in a war? She was here to fight for what she believed in, and the man right beside her was just that.
She, however, remained silent, solemn. And she had been this way ever since they had left Fort Dhagh. THis night was no different. And though exhausted, she merely found herself staring at the dancing flames of their camp fire.
Igna had not stopped staring at the fire since Jacen began staring at her, and that was roughly ten minutes ago. He reached over and grabbed hold of her hand.
"Something is troubling you," he said. "What is it?"
Igna nearly jumped out of her skin at the gesture, but when she turned to Jacen, she sighed.
"I'm sorry. There's just so much on my mind."
Jacen put his arm around her and scooted a bit closer to her.
"Like what?"
Igna tensed and tried to push away.
"I... I'd rather not talk about it. Not right now."
Though would they ever have a time as convenient as this one?
Jacen let Igna push herself away.
"I'll be ready to listen when you are," he said with a small reassuring smile.
If he had learned one thing from all the years of caring for his younger sister, it was that you don't push an issue that a woman does not wish to talk about it. Surely Igna would tell him about it if it was important, but on her own time. For now he would just remain by her side and let her know that he was there for her.
Igna felt so defeated, so used, so dirty. And she also felt tired, but her mind was racing too much for her to have considered sleep. But perhaps that's what she needed to clear her mind. If her mind could ever get cleared.
"We should probably sleep. We have another long march tomorrow."
"I suppose we should," Jacen agreed. "So where do you want to sleep? You have a choice between that snow over there, or this snow over here. I'm partial to the snow over here because it's closer to the fire."
Though he wasn't fairly certain his small attempt at humor wouldn't help at all, he still had to try.
At that, Igna just stared at him.
But then she punched him lightly on the shoulder and forced a small smile.
"I'd rather have the snow right here," she jested back, but it too, sounded forced.
"Ow," Jacen said gripping his shoulder and pouting. "You know I bruise easily."
Jacen could tell she was forcing it, but he was going to take this as far as he could. Even if it only cheered her up a little bit it was worthwhile.
"If you bruised so easily, why'd you become a soldier?"
"Because lasting change is worth a few temporary injuries."
"Yes, but lucky are the soldiers who only suffer that."
"So I'm told."
Jacen sat silently for a moment. Death did sound bad, but at the same time it was freedom from the horrors of war and troubles of life. It was the inevitable fear that everyone knew was coming, yet they all refuse to acknowledge it. For Jacen, death was now even less of an option now that he was with Igna. He couldn't die now, not after discovering something like this.
"A true soldier fights not because he hates what's in front of him, but because he loves what's behind him."
The statement might have been a bit out of place in the current conversation, but he just felt like saying it right then for some reason.
At such a statement, Igna grit her teeth.
"Jacen I-" she began, words scratchy, parched. But she wasn't sure she could tell him, as a lump formed in her throat.
"Igna, what is it," Jacen asked taking her hand in his. "You can tell me anything."
She felt her stomach drop as her gaze went to the snow, and she pulled her hand away.
"You say that... but even I hate myself for... for... what happened."
"Well, what happened?"
She kept her jaw set, eyes avoiding his as her mind rolled over how to even begin.
"Igna....."
Jacen reached up to her chin and gently turned her head to look at him.
"Whatever it is, you can tell me."
And when she looked into his eyes, she caved.
"I let them have me," she told him in a coarse whisper. "It was either that, or they'd take it anyway." She felt a knot form in her throat, making it hard to swallow. "So I just agreed, and let them... " she closed her eyes, so disgusted with herself. And tears began to roll down her cheeks.
Jacen's hand dropped from her chin and he went pale. He turned away and looked into the fire. He didn't know what to say or how to react to that. Images began running through his mind and rough, dirty soldiers having their way with Igna, his Igna. A flood a different emotions rushed through him:
He was angry at the soldiers for violating her.
Sad that she had sex with other men.
Angry that she did such a thing even though he didn't want her to.
Sad that she was probably getting very upset because he hadn't said anything to her yet.
Angry at the war for all of the terrible things it was caused to happen, such as this.
Sad that this knowledge will bother him for a very long time, if not the rest of his life, and might affect their love life in a negative way.
He was no longer the only one to ever have. Does this mean he was no longer special? Did this mean that she was no longer special? Was the first time they had sex meaningless now? She did technically just cheat on him. Then again she only did it so that she could remain with him.
Jacen's head began to hurt as the weight of the news and the thoughts it provoked came down on his already overloaded mind. He buried his face in his hands and groaned at the sudden, forceful migraine. This was too much, too much for right this very moment.
She could see he was torn, hurt. But so was she. Did he not realize she could either agree and be with Jacen, or get raped and be alone? This was a man's world and she was foolish to think that ignoring her gender could change anything.
And she couldnt handle the silence and got up and walked away.
Jacen was too busy drowing in his own thoughts and feelings that he didn't even notice Igna leave. He didn't know what to do or what to say. How is a man supposed to react to such news? Then again, she was still Igna. Regardless of what those filthy soldiers did to her she was still Igna. His Igna. There was nothing he could do to change what had happened, and he just needed to accept that.
Jacen lifted his head to face her, but she was gone and he couldn't see her anywhere. Burying his face in his hands once more he sighed deeply. Surely she would return when she was ready. Perhaps she just needed some time alone.
The cold of the night mirrored how cold she felt inside. And though she had on her heavy armor, the winds were biting. Even still, she was numb to it, and simply continued to walk until the tears returned, her vision blurred and she stopped beside a pine tree, a gloved palm resting against it as she leaned into it and just let herself cry.
Jacen wasn't fairing much better. He sat and stared into the fire with tears running down his cheeks, but he wasn't quite to the point of actual crying. He felt terrible for the silent treatment he had given her. He should have at least said something. Jacen hoped that wherever she was that she was alright and would return soon. If not, he would go out looking for her.
After she had her moment, she regretted it. She had a headache, her nose was sore and runny, and the cold night air only made her face sting all the more. She did her best to brush her tears aside, but her face still felt puffy and raw.
She turned around to study the camp, and though contemplated returning to Jacen, she realized she was too overwhelmed to recall the way back, and just stared around helplessly as she felt as though she might cry again.
And she hated herself for it. She wanted to be strong- Had to be strong. Yet here she was, feeling so vulnerable and scared.
That was it. She was gone too long. Unable to take it anymore. He got up and began searching for Igna. All he had to do was follow the footprints she had left behind in the snow. As he walked, he realized that the night was getting colder still. He would need to act quickly.
Sure enough, he eventually found what he was looking for. Igna was standing by herself in the snow and cold and on the verge of tears. Jacen ran up to her and embraced her without saying a word. He just wanted her to know that he still loved her, and words weren't necessary to communicate such a thing.
Too tired to be fully startled, she was simply grateful for the interruption and suddenly clung back to him, burying her face into his shoulder as she wet it with an onslaught of tears.
"Regardless of what happened, you're still my Igna," Jacen said as he held her. "And I still love you."
With that said he just held her and let her cry. She needed the release, so he would wait until she was done and ready to return to camp. He couldn't imagine how dirty and violated she must feel. The whole thing must be even harder on her than it is on him. He just wished he had thought of that sooner.
"God... but I have to live with that," she whispered against his shoulder, tears still rolling down her cheeks and stinging her as it mingled with the biting cold wind of the North.
"If we manage to live through this war we can get through anything," Jacen told her. "Besides, you don't have to live with it alone. I'm always going to be here for you."
Despite what happened, his words truly comforted her as she hugged him tighter, afraid to let go.
Jacen just held her for a little while longer before placing a light kiss on her forehead.
"Come on," he told her. "Let's get back to that fire. I'm freezing my ass off out here."
She nodded and squeezed his hand. Though she felt numb, it felt good as they neared the fire and quietly, she leaned against him from where the pair found a place to sit.
As they sat down by the fire, Jacen held Igna close and wrapped his cloak around both of them for warmth. He vowed silently to himself that he would never let another man touch Igna again, regardless of what measures would need to be taken.
She fervently wished what had happened would just go away. But what had been done was done, and she felt so dirty and worthless. She was not the sort of woman to simply sleep around, and felt her body to be sacred and was meant to be for her husband, and husband alone. Or in this case, for Jacen.
Though it was cold, she didn't feel it as her eyes continued to stare out at the fire. And though tired, she could not sleep, even as the silent minutes turned into hours. All she could do, was look at the fires dance, crackle and burn.
Jacen didn't get much sleep either. He was concerned about Igna. It had gotten to the point where he couldn't be angry with het because she was beating herself up harder than he ever could. He figured that the best thing for him to do right now was to just be there.
Realizing he was still awake, she stirred. But she was too shameful to look at him when she asked, "How can you still be by my side?"
Though it hadn't really been by her choice, she still felt so shameful. Maybe she should have said no... maybe they would have left her alone...
But they had her up against the wall...
And she knew there was no way out. Even still....
She felt so weak and pathetic. How could anyone love another when they could just allow that to happen?
"Like this," Jacen replied giving her a small squeeze. "Even though those other men may have had their way with you, you were mine first. And you're still mine."
It did comfort her, at least a little, but she still averted her gaze.
"It... might be good not to talk about it again. To let us both forget about it, as if it were a nightmare and wasn't... real."
"Whatever you wish," Jacen told her.
Although he knew he would never forget. He would never forget what she had to do in order to stay by his side. He would never forget the burning hatred he felt inside for every single one of those anonymous men that had laid their hands on her. No. There would be no forgetting, but he couldn't tell her that.
Somehow, Igna had fallen asleep, head resting against his shoulder. But she was groggy when she awoke, a murmur creeping it's way through the camp as the entire army began to awaken. She felt so stiff. She shouldn't have slept the way she did. She knew she'd have a crick in her neck all day. But that nagging pain would hopefully keep her mind off of the nightmares that had come to pass.
Turning to Jacen, she looked up into his face.
"Are you hungry? We should see if there are any rations for breakfast before we join the march."
Jacen had also fallen asleep at some point during the night. How he had managed to stay sitting without falling over was a total mystery to him. He was wakened by the sound of Igna's voice.
"Huh? What," he asked groggily as his eyes struggled to open.
She sighed, but still found herself smiling.
"The army.. its preparing to move out. If you're hungry, now's our only chance to see if there's food. And we might need it." She shivered, pulling her coat closer to her body. "It seems the morning has become colder than the night."
"Oh yeah, food," Jacen said rubbing the sleep from his eyes. "Eating would be a good idea wouldn't it?"
Jacen started rummaging through his pack. He still had some food that he had taken off of some of the more wealthy mercenaries, but he knew Igna wouldn't eat stolen food. Then again, she didn't have to know that it was stolen.
"Here," he said offering her some bread.
She peered up at him.
"But... isn't that your rations?"
Even still, she felt her stomach rumble with hunger. PErhaps she shouldn't be so stubborn and just accept it.
Jacen looked down at himself and patted his stomach.
"Do I look like I eat much," he teased with a grin. "I'll be fine. You go ahead. You need it more."
She grew defensive.
"Why would I need it more?"
"Because I'm more used to going for long periods of time with little food," Jacen told her. "And because I love you and want to be sure you're not starving."
"Oh? So my worry for you doesn't count?" she prodded. "Let's at least share it."
"I have some for myself," Jacen told her. "That's for you."
"Fine, but if I don't see you eating with me, i'm going to kick you."
And though it sounded as if she were serious, there was a smile now on her lips as she moved to eat some of the food. And after she chewed the first bite, she told him softly.
"Thank you."
"Okay, okay," he told her. "I'm eating."
He then bit into some of his stolen food doing his best to keep the fact that it was stolen unknown to Igna. He knew she wouldn't approve. She had already told him so. When she thanked him he offered her a small smile.
"You're most certainly welcome."
Once they were finished eating and the army began to move, she immediately felt overwhelmed at the prospect. It took so long to march here. Who knew how much longer they'd all have to march through this endless snow. The only thing keeping her together was the fact she could stay with Jacen, and the next time they made camp, she kept close for warmth, and was happy they were actually able to pitch a tent to share. Though they had to share with a few others, it mattered not to her, as she moved to snuggle in close to Jacen.
And though she was exhausted, so many thoughts rushed through her mind. And even as she closed her eyes, she couldn't block them out.
Jacen was also sustained through it all by the prospect of being with his beloved. Being able to march with Igna during the day and snuggle up with her at night was more than enough to keep him content. As they laid down for another night's attempt at rest, he held her close as she snuggled up to him. The same thoughts that entered his mind every night appeared once more. What if he didn't survive the war? What if she didn't? What if one of them were horrible injured or crippled? So many things could happen on a battlefield. Terrible things. Could they somehow miraculously escape them all?
"Jacen?" her voice came out soft, even hoarse in the dead of night. It seemed the other men in their tent were sleeping.
"You awake?"
"Yeah," he replied simply. "Sleeping hasn't been very easy for me as of late."
"Same here." she sighed, but a second later, she moved closer to him. "Do you think word's spread about our victory at Fort Dhagh?"
Jacen held Igna tighter against himself as she moved closer. He loved being close to her.
"Maybe," he replied. "Word has always traveled fast in Connlaoth. Perhaps that's the one thing that hasn't changed."
Falling silent, she simply listened to the sound of the winter winds outside of their shared tent.
"Perhaps..."
She went quiet again, still listening.
"But that seems... strange. It seems just about everything has been touched by this war."
"It does seem that way, doesn't it," he said he with a sigh. "And I doubt things will ever be the same again. This war is going to be a scar on Connlaoth for the rest of its existence."
At that, Igna grew silent as she lay nestled against him. She wanted to say more, desired to get closer to him. But she felt unworthy and simply wanted to at least be able to remain as close as they were now. The warmth they shared was more than welcome as she closed her eyes, hoping to sleep.
Jacen held Igna as tightly against him as he could with without crushing her or making her uncomfortable. He knew that she felt violated, and he held her close as if to try to snuff out the presence of the other men with his own. If he ever found out exactly which men had laid their hands on her.... Well, Ansgar have mercy on their souls. For now he just wanted to show her that he still loved her despite what happened and that she didn't have to be afraid of being unworthy.
Eventually sleep found her, but it was hardly enough. But duty prevailed, and soon she was moving along with the other soldiers, cleaning up camp and moving on. She was thankful, despite the situation, and the fact they were all entangled in this war, that she had someone to love and care for at her side. But this weather,t his road was really weighing on her, and both her toes and fingers felt numb, cold.
But there was no stopping. The orders were clear and she had done this, joined this willingly. So when a city appeared just on the horizon and the army began to slow to a halt, she wondered what would happen. Would they encounter hostilities here? Or would they be able to just pass on by?
She felt like this army were a ghost- moving around with a silent purpose that had not yet settleded in with the rest of the world. It was perhaps this reason that when the army moved to resupply int he city- no one seemed to question them, or see them as the enemy.
She was thankful for that, at least, and the fact they were able to stay in a town and in a place to keep warm. Naturally, the local inns and taverns wouldn't be enough to house an army, but the few farms scattered on the outskirts of the town agreed to allow the army to stay for the night to rest. A few gold coins, of course, did not hurt-
and there was even fresh meat from a good many cows.
Though as Igna got her portion, she hesitated not to dig in, warm juices dropping down her chin. A slight knot of guilt gave her some indigestion, after all, she knew this winter was hard on everyone- and to give up such a precious resource to the army....
She knew others would suffer- but for now, this meal was a sin she was ready and willing to deal with.
Jacen didn't fall asleep until Igna had. He needed to make sure she was getting rest. The marching was long and weather was cold as always, but it didn't stop his mind from wandering. He thought about the future. He thought about him and Igna, thought about what he would do with himself after the war. What would he do? He had never learned any sort of trade because he had gone straight into the army. Once this was all over, what would he do? War was all he knew it seemed, as much as he hated it. How would he provide for her?
On the bright side all this pondering allowed time to pass quickly until they reached the next town. They even got to eat meat. Real meat. Fresh meat. He stuffed his face as he sat beside Igna. Conversation would have been a useless gesture. All that mattered was the luxury of an actual meal.
Igna was embarrassed to admit she too, only had food on her brains. The juice from the fresh meats sticky-ing her face and fingers were almost as wonderful as the first time she had made love. When the food was nearly gone, she worked at licking her fingers, savoring the taste in hopes it would last through the next long march west.
Jacen chuckled when he saw Igna ravenously licking the juice from her fingers. She had certainly been hungry indeed. He then saw an opportunity to cheer her up even further and perhaps take her mind off of how she had been violated.
"If you're still hungry," he said slyly. "I probably have some juice around my mouth that you could have."
She paused to look up at him, blinking.
"You think I'm that uncivilized?" she questioned, not getting it was a jest.
Jacen leaned back and raised his hands in front of his defensively.
"It was just a joke," he said quickly. "I'm just trying to get a kiss is all. I don't think you're uncivilized."
She stared at him, and gave him a small smile.
"Kiss?" She moved to pull him rough and close to her. "Is that how you really think you get a kiss from a girl?"
Jacen shrugged his shoulder now that he was suddenly a lot closer to her.
"I don't know," he admitted. "I never been with any girl before until I met you. I was always busy caring for my sister or fighting a ridiculous war."
Realizing how depressing that sounded he decided to add onto it.
"Why don't you teach me," he asked with a small smile of his own.
She eyed him over.
"You think I know much more than you?"
She too, had lead a life that hadn't exactly afforded her the time or opportunity to explore love.
"I think you forget.... we're both stumbling through this together."
"You still know more than me," Jacen told her. "You are a girl yourself, after all."
Jacen offered her another small smile.
"So how would you like me to get a kiss from you?"
Her eyes danced.
"You know... The old fashioned way," she said, gloved fingers tracing up the buttons of his coat.
"Well I believe that the old fashioned way," Jacen began, reaching up and caressing her cheek.
"...is to just lean in..."
He leaned forward and touched his forehead to hers.
"...and take it."
He then kissed her deeply and passionately.
The moment their lips touched she felt a tickling chill run through her, starting as a pool in her belly and feathering out through her veins. Even the tips of her fingers felt the effects, as she found herself soon pressing into that kiss and deepening it for another.
If Jacen had been cold before, he seemed to have completely forgotten about it now. His love and passion for Igna was keeping him warm, and the feeling of her lips on his own was electrifying. As she deepened the kiss into another, Jacen kept it going into a third. His hand left her cheek as his arms wrapped around her to hold her close. With all the marching and whatnot that they had to do on a daily basis they didn't many opportunities to do things like this, so he was going to take full advantage of it while it lasted.
Igna felt much the same, and continued to kiss him-
Until they were interrupted by the giggling of a few soldiers passing by. Though she blushed, and the next kiss became clumsy, it only made her move closer to Jacen as she growled, "Just let them stare." And her next kiss was hard as she pulled him as close to her as she could. And continued to kiss him, again and again.
Jacen didn't care that other soldiers saw. In fact, he almost wanted them to see, so that they knew that Igna was his and off-limits. Let them stare all they want, they would never get to do anything more. Igna was his.
Jacen matched Igna's newfound ferocity and tried pulling her even closer than she already was. As he kissed her he realized that he had been wrong. There had been a time when he thought that nothing good could ever come out of war. But, ironically, the best that has ever happened was because of this stupid war. He was going to kiss Igna 'til he turned blue. He didn't care who saw.
Her lips felt numb by the time they stopped. And she looked at him dizzily. Had they been in any other place at any other time, she'd want him to make love to her again. But as it were, they were soldiers, and as the march continued, she realized they lingered long enough.
"We should move out as well," she told him, cheeks flushed and breath coming out in white puffs.
"I suppose we should," Jacen replied between breaths.
He gave her a smile before planting one final kiss on her forehead. He then stood and offered her a hand to help her up.
"What do you think the other soldiers say about us," he asked with a smile.
SHe nudged him at such an inquiry.
"Should we even worry what they say?"
Jacen chuckled.
"I certainly don't," he replied. "I don't care that they see us kissing. It lets them know that you are mine and to keep their hands off of you."
Such a comment made her think other wise, but it was still nice to hear. She stole another kiss.
"Come on." She gave a playful tug of his arm. "Let's join the others before we get kicked out of the rebel army."
"That might not be such a bad thing," Jacen muttered.
In fact, he would probably be happy to get kicked out. Then the two of them wouldn't have to worry about fighting anymore and could leave this whole mess behind. Then again, he would be leaving his home in ruins. Of course it would probably end the same way regardless of his participation. What could one man do on his own anyway? Did his presence even make a difference? Perhaps simply running away with Igna wouldn't be such a bad idea. It wasn't like it would be a disgrace. They were the enemy in Connlaoth's eyes after all. It's not like they would be looked down upon. But what would Igna think of such an idea?
Had she known what he was thinking, she would have punched his arm- hard. The army meant a lot to her, and was a symbol of her ability to see and participate in a means to an end. Turgall was the only army accepting of women in such a way, and secretly, she hoped this meant great changes for the future, even if this path would fail.
Great things came from slow built empires, and Connlaoth was no exception.S he was not ignorant enough to think the country was destined to remained as it were- and if this civil war didn't make it evident enough...
Change was in the air.
The next town they stopped at seemed irrelevant. She was surprised no one had bothered to confront the army thus far. However, the storm had never once ceased, and here, where the land began to flatten, it seemed the snow was the heaviest. Had they been int he front of the marching army, they'd have been faced with dealing with the wall of snow around them- but after several hundred men had already tramped through it, it was at least walkable by the time Igna and Jacen were walking down the way.
She lifted the fur lined hood of her jacket and peered at the church, which was a small building resting ontop of the hill. She wondered if she could get a moment to pray..
And though she was never real religious before..
Part of her felt like she needed some connection to the greater forces and Gods of this world.
But she was also tired and had hoped stopping at a town meant they could stay in a building for shelter, but the town was so small, tents had to be erected. At least she was still able to remain with Jacen. Once their tent was built, Igna sighed and glanced towards the church.
"Do you believe in Ansgar?" she asked him suddenly before turning to look his way.
Well, that was an odd and unexpected question. Jacen turned to her with a curious look.
"Of course," he replied. "Why do you ask?"
She observed him a moment before looking towards the church.
"I never thought to ask... but the small church over there reminds me of the one from home. I had... believed enough in Ansgar to go.... but I'm not sure how I feel now. Something.. compels me to dote upon the act of praying, as I had done so in the past... Maybe it's becuase it had been a comforting notion..... But one has to wonder which side of Ansgar we're on."
"I'd like to think that we are on the right side," Jacen told her. "The true teachings of Ansgar were never to kill or imprison mages. Yes they were different and we are to be wary, but this is too far. Ansgar would not have wanted this."
She gave a small smile.
"All I mean is... And perhaps its a foolish thought, but what if the will of Ansgar is wrong?" and she studied him, expression serious. "He is a being of war... What if such a God willed for this way of change?"
Jacen stared at her for a moment, mulling over her words in his head.
"I can't believe that," Jacen said finally. "I can't believe that he would have wanted so many innocents to die."
"I know... It is hard to believe.... But some churches do preach it."
"Then they're wrong," Jacen snapped. "That can't be. There's.... He wouldn't.... Why would he...."
Jacen was at a complete loss for words. Ansgar built Connlaoth. Why would he want to see it destroyed? Why would he want his people to suffer? It didn't make any sense. He wanted them to destroy themselves. No, that couldn't be. There was no way. Could there? But why?
She placed a hand on his shoulder.
"I did not mean to upset you."
"I can't believe that," Jacen whispered. "I can't believe he would want to watch his people tear each other apart."
Igna went quiet, eyes wavering as she stared up into his.
"But it's happening," she spoke, words soft. "And he's allowed such a war to go on for too long."
"I know," Jacen whispered. "Believe me, I know."
Jacen looked up at the church, then at the army around them, and then to Igna.
"How many more have to die? How many more of my own countrymen to have to kill before this can end?"
Igna hadn't a chance to respond as she could hear the conversation from other men.
"The duke- did you think it's true?"
"Possibly. I wouldn't put it past him- he's past due at marrying."
"Yeah.. but a White Lily?"
"You think that's blasphemy?"
"Well..."
"Hans, we're all committing not only high treason, but we're disgracing the laws, and some parts of the church, to the fullest degree."
There was more talk, more whispers, than a man racing past them on horse back.
"Lennett's back."
"Think he has good news?"
"At the speed he was going- it look slike bad news."
And at that, Igna turned to Jacen.
Jacen gave Igna a confused look.
"What's going on," he asked. "What about a the duke and a White Lily?"
"From what I'm guessing, people believe their an item.." She paused to consider. "The bells from earlier.... They did sound a lot like wedding bells."
"The duke married a White Lily," Jacen asked. "What? How? There's no way she couldn't have known who he was."
Igna shrugged.
"It's all gossip. Though I suppose it's better to worry about that then the blood and snow."
"I guess," Jacen replied. "Though I suppose it would be silly to dwell on rumors about a wedding that isn't mine."
Jacen thought for a moment before adding
"Or maybe.... Ours?"
"Ours?" Igna was taken back. "What do you mean?" She shook her head, sighing. "Never mind, it's cold and I'm tired."
Jacen sighed both in relief and disappointment. Relief that he didn't have to come up with a way to explain himself, but also disappointed that he didn't have to.
"Me too," he resigned. "There will probably be another full day of marching ahead of us so we better get our rest."