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Chapter Text

Being sick when you're a little kid sucks. You can't do much of anything- especially for a family like Niam's. One big storming chaotic mess. As cool as they were in Niam's eyes, his mom Lila didn't want the odder bunch of his family coming over when he was sick. So he found himself for the second day in a row laying in his bed. Pale and coughing like one sick cookie stranded on an island. Buried in a sky blue blanket as puffy as a cloud.

Niam relaxes back into his pillow, a remote in hand, as he mulls through a video game.(MLB the show 24.)Right as his game starts to lag, Niam is hit by another spasm of coughing, and puts the remote down. He lets out a groan as his head falls back into his pillow. face fixed with annoyance in his delirious state, piles of tissues fell off the cover as he moved. Just as he rests his eyes for a second, his door creaks open. His mom, peeking in before entering.

''Hi, chickie-'' His mom enters, trying to hide her concern as she steps over many toys that littered his room.’’ You feeling any better?’’

'' A little bit..'' His mom feels his forehead.

''Guess what.''

"what?''

'' Your Grandpas Here,'' Lila states, ignoring  her child’s groan as she opens up his window. Bringing the light, showing the snow draped neighborhood.

'' Mom, Can't you tell him I'm sick?'' He complains.

'' Your sick thats why hes here.'' She affirmed, mentally preparing for niam’s blabbering.

'' He'll pinch my cheek, I hate that.'' Lila rolls her eyes before kissing his forehead. leaving him all tingly.

'' Maybe he won't.'' She imitates him, and Just then Niam's grandfather bursts into the room. 

'' Hey kiddo!''He was kind of rumpled, But eyes were bright. His Grandfather, Ronnie Gill, was as eccentric as he was kind.He had a wrapped gift tucked under one arm as he immediately went to Niam, pinching his cheek. Causing Niam to give his mom an '' i told you so'' look. Lila sighs trying to ignore his shade and gets off the bed. ’’How's the sickie, eh?”

As his mother leaves an uncomfortable silence fills the room. his grandfather sits down, clearing his throat as he passes Niam his gift.

'' I brought you a special present.''

'' what is it?''

'' Open it up.'' Niam eagerly takes the gift, taking off the wrapping paper. doing his best to smile. With his grandfather he really didn't know what he was going to get.

'' A book?'' He wasn't the type to even read a book this big. The only thing he read was the diary of a wimpy kid.

'' That's right. When I was your age, television was called books. And this is a special book. It was the book my father used to read to me when I was sick, and I used to read it to your Mother. And today, I'm gonna read it to you. So you can relax a little…''

Ronnie really didn't want to make the boy uncomfortable, well aware he could be a lot some times.Niam settled a little, looking over the elaborate cover before handing it back to him. Not before glancing back at his game on his TV.

'' Has it got any sports in it?''

'' Are you kidding?'' He laughs, His grandfather's eyes sparkle again, his demeanor easing up. Hands moving as he talked,'' It has fencing.Fighting.Torture.Revenge. Giants. Monsters.Chases. Escapes. True love. Miracles-''

As he rants, Niam's interest piques, getting a little lost in his words. But manages a bored shrug as he says,''It doesn't sound do bad…I'll try to stay awake.''

Niam turns off his tv, and leans back into his pillow.

'' Oh. Well, thank you very much.That's very nice of you.'' His grandfather replies in a teasing yet sarcastic tone as he set down hsi hat.'' Your vote of confidence is overwhelming.''

He puts on his glasses, licks his thumb and cracks open a page, beginning to read.

''All right- The Elements of Devotion, by D.Cooper. Chapter One. Delores was raised on a small farm in the country of Florin.'' As The grandfather reads the book, already lost in the magic of it, we see the very countryside he imagines. Rolling hills covered with the thickest of trees, no doubt filled with magic both fantastical and frightening.The lush green pasture, painted nearly golden in sunlight. '' Her favorite pastimes were riding her horse and tormenting the farm boy that worked there. His name was Five, but she never called him that.''

'' Isn't that a wonderful beginning?'' he asked his grandson, voice filled with mirth. Niam was doing his best to follow along, already wondering when the action was going to come in.

'' Yeah, it's really good, Bābā.'' he muttered, and with that Ronnie went right back reading.

'' Nothing gave Delores as much pleasure as ordering Five around.'' On the farm Delores didn't do much of any work besides the occasional milk delivery into town to sell with her mother. whenever they did her mother would fuss around her to clean up. But Delores was just a teenager at the time, and did not yet care for how she dressed.Nor did she care to brush her long blond hair. So she wasn't as beautiful as she would become. but she certainly was still a looker, no one stood quite as tall as she did. Or compared in the smile she had, a smile so keen she saved just for one person.

      ….

'' Farm boy. Polish my horse's saddle. I want to see my face shining in it by morning.'' Delores told him, chin held high as she held the reins of her horse.The farm boy looked up to her from the stable book taking in her words.

''As you wish,'' He answers quietly, but just loud enough to be heard. And with that she huffed in satisfaction, passing him by. His gaze followed as she went.

'' 'As you wish' was all he ever said to her.'' Ronnie tells Niam. whenever he was at work she'd always pop up to interrupt him. This annoyed him at first, But despite his best efforts and tempered yet quiet demeanor; he found himself utterly entranced by her.

'' Farm boy, fill these with water-'' She falters, taking five in for a second. silently scolding herself. she must be polite to him, for all he did for her. she spoke softer than before, ''—Please.''

'' As you wish.'' Their eyes lock for a beat too long.Her eyes unfocused for a second, face flushed with realization. She leaves again, he watches her-but just as she looks back he manages to look away. Her gaze now on him, a silent moment that left her brain swirling… it was to much to bare.That day, Delores was amazed to discover that when he was saying, "As you wish," what he meant was, "I love you.''

         ….

At dusk he enters the Kitchen with an armload of firewood. which made him look small due to his height.He stood there for a while, watching Delores cook for a moment. It was a comfortable silence, one they shared rarely. But  filled with a common understanding. When her father was away, which was often, five would often come over to keep her company. Hating to see her alone, though he'd never say it, he loved her presence. As did she, her days now were filled with thoughts of him. He wasn't her type she's gone for in the past but… Against her better judgment, she was amazed to realize she loved him back.

'' Farm boy-…fetch me the pitcher.'' She tells him, taking notice of him as he nearly left, glancing around for something  for him to do. Something to make him stay. She took her hands out of the doe she kneaded.Pointing to a pitcher hanging well in her reach.He gets it handing it rather slowly, taking a step closer. Now rather close, gazes fixed on each other's eyes.

''As you wish,'' He murmurs looking up at her, and then moves outside. Delores holds back a smile And  follows after him in a heartbeat. Outside the tiny hovel, beneath the red sunset they hold each other…locked in a secret, yet overwhelming kiss.

"—HOLD IT, HOLD IT--'' Niam interjects,'' What is this? Are you trying to trick me? -- Where's the sports?!…Is this a kissing book?"

'' Wait just wait-''

'' When is it gonna get GOOD?''

'' Keep your shirt on- now let me read, '' His grandfather rolls his eyes, and continues to read. Ignoring his grandson's disappointment.'' Five had no money for marriage. So he packed his few belongings and left the farm to seek his fortune across the sea.''

Near the gate of the farm, Delores holds tight to five. As if to keep from the inevitable.

''it was a very emotional time for Delores—''

'' I don't BEE-Leeve this.'' Niam groans.

'' I fear I'll never see you again,'' She tells him, voice strained as she cups his face in her hands. He laughed a little, which didn't shake Delores nerves. He was her only solely in her lonely life.

''Of course i will.''

'' But what if something happens to you?''

'' Here this now.'' He pulls back, making her meet his eyes.The journey he was to go on was treacherous and long.'' I will come for you. Always.''

'' How can you be so sure?'' She starts, voice thick with emotion as she feels tears coming to her eyes.

'' This is true love, you think people find this everyday?'' He teases her with a smile, she smiles too- feeling some ease. And with that she throws her arms so tightly around him. They kiss once more. As He walks away, Delores watches him go for the final time.

'' He didn't reach his destination. His ship was attacked by the Dread Pirate Hargreaves, who never left captives alive. When Delores got the news that Five was murdered --'' Ronnie tells Niam.

'' Murdered by pirates is good.''

Delores for weeks neither slept nor ate. keeping herself in her room, her lowly hovel. If her heart ached so would her body. After days of sobbing, not an ounce of feeling was left in her. She was more alone than ever as she glanced out her window. gazing at the world that once shined in her eyes.

'' I will never love again.'' Her voice was void of emotion, perfect and perfectly sad. Her father was to lose the farm, now unmaintained as it used to be.But a pool of anger  started to grow inside her. Now in the present day of the book, we fall on the main courtyard of the city Florin. The courtyard/marketplace is filled with livestock and common folk. all gather for a special announcement from Florin's royalty.

'' Five years later, the main square of Florin City was filled as never before to hear the announcement of the great Prince Atlas Jericho's bride-to be.''

Children ran up to the main square of the city, where people danced, performed and congregated. a long platform like a runaway is set up, in the square. Covered in flowers and elaborate fabrics. The blues and reds of their cities' flags. Which dawned a fearsome fish in the middle of  it, where hanged everywhere. A Booming voice cuts through the crowd from above. Heads turn to look up to the castle's Balcony.

The prince was of incredible power and bearing, standing in his royal robes. that were dark greens, reds and deep blues in color. the edge of his robe being tipped in gold with woven fish. After all Florin took great pride in their ships and fishermen. A stark contrast to the commoners' drab clothing. The prince stands in front of his parents: the Two withering Queens of Florin. Besides the prince is a Bearded man, who matched the prince in Strength: The Count Reginald.

'' My people!A month from now, our country will have its 500th anniversary. On that sundown, I shall marry a lady who was once a commoner like yourselves --'' Prince Atlas raises his hand as he starts to speak. Making all before him go silent. Always being one for the dramatics, the prince paused before speaking again. ''-- but perhaps you will not find her common…now. Would you like to meet her?''

"YES!" The crowd answered, voices booming like summer thunder. The crowd turns to the platform, a ghost of a figure comes to the forefront. All hold their breath in awe at the sight of the princess. It was Delores, Utterly Resplendent as she descends. in robes woven with silver and sunlight glittering on her tall frame.

''My people!—Princess Delores!''

She walks slowly, at a loss for words. She looks over the people. Her people, all stare at her with pride. and most of all her father smiles up at her. happy as a calm with the riches he got from selling her off to the prince; in a way to keep his farm. a farm he barely tended to now.

'' Delores's emptiness consumed her.’’

Her mouth drew into a thin line And with no instructions at all in waves…Kneel before her. Delores heart drops, deeply moved by this action. But She stands like a statue among her people…her friends, family, blinking back tears. her hair shining as it waved in the wind, only elevating her beauty. Even In a moment of triumph…She scowled up at the prince. Who smiled in return.

‘’Although the law of the land gave Atlas the right to choose his bride…she did not love him. Despite Atlas's reassurance that she would grow to love him, the only joy she found was in her daily ride.''

As soon as this game of the prince was over, Delores quickly left for the forest on horseback. The same Horse she had all those years before. Only of the many 'kindnesses' the prince gave to her. She barreled through the woods, leaving behind all purpose, controlling her horse with ease. She rode for hours till sunset: Lovely, Quiet and deserted…As she was always.She didn't ride on to leave Florin, though the thought did cross her mind. She only came back each night or morning for the sake of the queen. A kind old woman who had looked after her from the beginning.

She would never forget the day she was brought to the castle. Delores was filled with sadness. Mostly anger. It was raining when she came, her father insisting on bringing her that himself. She understood the arrangement just fine- but a marriage? It made her think of the farm boy she once loved…what could have been. And she hated it couldn't she just live, ride her horse all day- tend her farm. Anything but be in the possession of a man again. 

In the rain she left her father as quickly as possible. Making a dash for the woods–but the guards stopped her. Making her fall into the mud, face to face with the queen. Not the prince, his mother. She told off the guards and helped her up. The queen spoke with such a kind voice, with an air of authority to those around her.She guided her to her new room, taking to her bed. combing the dirt out from her hair as she comforted Delores. Letting the young lady sob into her shoulders.

In the passing months in the castle as she became a princess, the queen Taught her to carry herself stronger. Speak her mind more. That's how she got her old horse back. Delores couldn't be more grateful to this woman. She thought she was going to be alone in her new life. She rarely thought of her farm boy- though he pained her to say it- she felt more at peace. More herself as much as she could in the castle under her fiancé's eye. But the ache to disappear never ebbed…But she knew The prince’s soldiers would chase her down like they did before. But before she could complete that thought her horse bucked back. Suddenly jolted from her day dream, she pulled back her reins, and found herself in the company of three men of varying sizes.

'' A word My lady?''

Chapter Text

The three men were not your average bunch of thugs. The one who croaked at a fox-like face, with a beard that consisted of three scraggly hairs. His name is Ben, and by his posture alone held himself in high regard. Beside him is a Spaniard, erect and taut as a blade of steel. His name is Diego Castañeda. The third is A Half-giant by the name of Luther; who stared solemnly at her.

'' We are but poor, lost circus performers. Is there a village nearby?'' Ben asks, in a faux pleading tone.

'' There is nothing nearby; not for miles, why-'' Delores squinted at them, sensing something was afoot. but it was already too late.

"Good. then there will be no one to hear you scream!'' Ben chirps, nodding to Luther, who merely presses a nerve on her neck. She stifles out a scream as Luther pulls her off the horse—She tries to fight back as she grows unconscious. As Luther carries her along at Ben's call, He glances down at Delores with immense guilt. Whispering a quiet apology to her as he holds her.

      ….

Luther carried Delores onto the moored ship. it's dusk now, and the shadows are long.The Spaniard busies himself by getting the boat ready. Ben stops to tuck the fabric of an army jacket over Delores's horse's saddle. There is about the entire operation a sense of tremendous skill and precision.

'' What is that your ripping?'' Diego asks, standing on the boat's edge, undoing the ropes around the mast.

'' It's fabric from the uniform of an Army officer of Guilder.'' Ben answers, nor stops his work or looks up to him.

'' Who's guilder?'' Luther asks, looking back at Ben as he gently sets Delores down.

'' sigh, the Country across the sea. The SWORN Enemy of florin!'' Ben replies with mild annoyance. He hated getting simple minded questions. and with that he slaps the horse's rump. '' GO!''

it takes off in the opposite direction.Once on the boat Ben speaks again. '' Once the horse reaches the castle, the fabric will make the Prince suspect the Guilderians have abducted his love- When he finds her body dead on the Guilder frontier, his suspicions will be totally confirmed!''

'' You never said anything about killing anyone…'' Luther probs him. Which got a drawn out sigh from Ben.

‘’ I've hired you to help me start a war.'' Ben explained,'' That's a prestigious line of work with a long and glorious tradition.''

'' I just don't think its right..killing an innocent woman…'' Luther glanced over at the unconscious Delores with great conviction. which immediately ticked Ben off, causing him to whirl back at Luther. practically spitting his words at him.

'' Am I going MAD or did the word "think" escape your lips? You were not hired for your brains, you hippopotamic LAND mass!''

'' I agree with Luther.'' interjected Diego.

''OH look who's speaking! what happens to her is truly NOT your concern-for I will kill her!'' He shouts, advancing on both of them.Screaming like a hot chili pepper at Luther, who looked mildly panicked. while nothing shows on Diego's face. Ben had great power over them in money and brains. or so he thought. He focused on Diego saying,'' When I found you, you were so slobbering drunk you couldn't buy brandy! --'' then to Luther.'' And YOU -- friendless, brainless, helpless, hopeless -- Do you want me to send you back to where you were, unemployed in GREENLAND?''

Ben, not satisfied with putting his men in their place, walks off. Luther stares down at his feet, fists clenched, quite troubled by Ben's insults. It wasn't that Luther was dumb, he just didn't have a way with words like the rest of them. He had something neither Ben or Diego had, a pure heart.

" That man, he likes to make a fuss.'' Diego comforts Luther, coming over to him.

''…Fuss…fuss…I think it likes to scream at us.''

" He probably means no harm.''

'' Then he's very short on charm.''

'' Oh you've got the great gift of rhyme.'' Diego replies proudly, causing Luther to smile in turn at him.

'' Yes, some of the time.''

'' Enough of that!'' Ben shoats from the boat's edge, pushing it off from the forests.

….

With Diego at the boat's helm, they kept a steady pace. Luther stands near the princess, whose lashes flutter slightly or do they? No matter Luther doesn't notice, too distracted by the way the red fabric of her dress glows in the moon.The waves are higher, there are only occasional flashes of moon slanting down between clouds.

'' We'll Reach the cliffs by dawn.'' Ben stood near Diego as they went on, fiddling with his sparrow black robe. Diego nods vaguely and glances over his shoulder. '' Why are you doing that?''

"Making sure no one is following us.''

'' THAT would be inconceivable.'' He rolled his eyes.But before he could say more he was interrupted by the now awake Princess Delores.

'' Despite what you think, you will be caught. And when you are, the Prince will see you all hanged."A very much awake delores states, voice void of fear. Out of  all  her kidnappers, Ben was the least frightening to her and luther the less harmless. As for Diego, she could not read him as well.

'' of all the necks on the boat, Your highness, the only one you should be worrying about is your own.'' If he were to kill her now, she would only give him the same soulless look. Ben glances back at Diego to see him continue to look over his shoulder.'' Stop doing that! We can all relax, it's almost over-''

'' You're sure nobody's following us?''

'' As I told you, it would be absolutely, totally, and in all other ways, inconceivable. No one in Guilder knows what we've done. And no one in Florin could have gotten here so fast.'' Once done with his spiel, which quite satisfied himself as he rests his eyes; he spoke again.'' Out of curiosity, why do you ask?''

'' No reason. It's only, I just happened to look behind us, and something is there.''

'' WHAT?'' In mild shock, the rest of them look into the darkness behind them. It's hard to see; the moon is behind clouds now. But the wind whistles. And the waves pound all gone ominous. Ben squints, holding his breath as the moon slips through—Diego was right. something is very much there. A sailboat. Black. With a great billowing sail.It's a good distance behind them, but it's coming like hell, closing the gap. Something in Delores' heart begins to stir with hope. sure it was just a ship, but something about it called to her with great importance.

'' Probably some…Local fisherman out for a pleasure cruise at night through eel-infested waters.'' Ben explains half heartedly with as much logic as he can muster. As he speaks the boat rocks, the splash of water. Delores had jumped ship.

'' Go in! Go GET her!'' Ben screams, reeling over the side, eyes boring into Delores.

'' I don't swim!'' Diego counters from the helm

'' I only doggy paddle!'' Luther says.

''AGHH-Veer left. Left. LEFT!'' Ben hollers at Diego. Diego nods and steers the ship in Delores direction.She knew she was making a fool of herself as she breast stroked through the water. As the wind dies down, shriek is heard, starling her.

'' Do you know what that sound is, Highness? Those are the Shrieking Eels -- if you doubt me, just wait. They always grow louder when they're about to feed on human flesh.'' Ben casually explains to her. She is still not far from the boat. The shrieking sounds are getting louder and more terrifying. Delores stays silent, with a fixed glare on Ben.'' If you swim back now, I promise, no harm will come to you. I doubt you will get such an offer from the Eels.''

'' Yet, its an offer I'll have to take…'' Delores counters, and starts floating on her back.her actions clear as the high-pitched shrieks get closer. she doesn't care what could become of her, no one does anymore. everything that mattered to her is lost. not just five, but her father, her old life and friends. The shrieking gets louder still, as Luther stares at the princess in shock. circling her now the eel, zeros in on her. its milk white scales glittering in the moonlight.

'' does she have a death wish?!'' Luther shoats at Ben, who stops him from grabbing her out of the water.

'' not yet..'' the eel opens its mouth, closing in. she knows it now, there is nothing she can do. it's all over, all over and she can't help but smile.

'' Now she doesn't get eaten by the eels at this time.'' Ronnie cuts in, taking notice of how Niam was reacting. '' she doesn't do this…going forward, don't worry.''

'' What?'' Niam croaks, looking pale as he grips his sheets a little too tightly. Ronnie puts a comforting hand on his grandson's shoulder.

'' The Eel doesn't get her. I'm explaining to you because you looked spooked.''

'' Wha- I wasn't spooked!'' Niam starts, Ronnie waits.'' Well, maybe I was a little bit concerned. But that's not the same thing…''

'' Because I can stop now if you want-''

'' No. You could read a little bit more ... if you want.'' He grips the sheets again, as his Grandfather picks up the book.

"Do you know what that sound is, Highness? Those are the Shrieking Eels. Ben casually explains-'' Ronnie starts off screen.

'' We're past that, Grandpa. You read it already.''

'' Oh. Oh my goodness, I did. I'm sorry. Beg your pardon.'' Ronnie chuckles nervously. ''All right, all right, let's see-Uh, she was in the water, the Eel was coming after her. She was frightened. The Eel started to charge her. And then -''

She is grabbed by the giant arm of Luther. Moments before the eels take a bite of her. Delores swings into his body, water coming out of her mouth instantaneously.

'' ARE YOU INSANE-'' Luther starts to yell, eyes searching as he holds up her face, awaiting an answer. but was only met with the sound of gargled water coming from her throat.

'' Put her down. Just, ugh- PUT HER DOWN!'' Ben orders him, Diego points back to the boat's rope pile. Luther sets her down, going on one knee, sweeping her we hair off her face. Delores coughs up more water, rubbing her throat. she glances up at him initially glaring, till she sees the look on his face.

'' I shouldn't have yelled at you- I'm sorry.'' Luther starts, gazing at her with his big eyes. which made her stomach curl in confusion, why does this giant care? he did not know her-he was nothing more than a captor. '' I- ugh, are you..mm..okay?''

she nods, managing a weak smile to him. A moment passes, then ben comes over. pushing Luther out of the way and ties her up again. Luther mouths another apology to her as he stumbles off, still staring at her. Delores mouths thank you to him in turn, making him smile at her. He was oddly…endearing, for an assassin, of course.

''I think he's getting closer..'' Diego starts up again.

"ugh- he's no concern of ours, Sail on!'' Ben rolls his eyes, and turns to Delores dramatically. Bending down to eye level.'' I suppose you think your brave for that trick of yours, huh?''

'' Only compared to some.'' She glares deeply into him, before spitting in his face. Ben let out a shirl laugh and stuck her across the face.
'' Don't try me, princess." and with that he let her be. Delores stared up at the moon, trying to not let his laughter and a bruised cheek get to her.
But as the night grew, she found a budding friendship with Luther on the ship. Though quite tired, she Listened as intently as she could to the tales he spun of his homeland. Besides the brief interjection of orders from ben- her nerves eased. Even just for a moment.

Chapter Text

Now at the dawn of the next day. A blinding overcast reflected in the waters, which have not grown choppy due to the rocks ahead. The assassins were still being followed closely by the black sailboat, which almost seemed to be flying towards them. the man and his crew now visible at a closing distance.

'' Look! He's right on top of us.'' Diego announces, the poor man had been sailing all night. '' I wonder if he is using the same wind we are using. ''

'' Whoever he is, he's too late! '' Ben points ahead of them ''— see? The Cliffs of Insanity.''

The cliffs of insanity towered above them, sheer from the water and impossibly high. rocks as sharp as dragons teeth. The cliff had a small Plateau within its weather-worn stone. merely looking up it now Ben got vertigo.The two sail boats sail in a wild race for the cliffs. One to corner the assassins, the other to evade their follower. Diego caught a glance back, the head sailor now visible. A man in black, on an abandoned pirate boat. The mystery follower closing faster than ever, but not fast enough, the lead the assassins had on him was too great to overcome. After all Diego sails with great precision and talent towards the cliffs.

Now at the cliffs, Ben yanks Delores off the ship. making her stumble onto the rocks. Diego rushes to grab a harness from the ship's storage, and fits Luther with it one off the boat.Diego gently grabs her forearm, brings her to Luther's side, pulling out a strap. Once securing her with it, in a very quick manner, she glances up at the cliffs. daunting and sickening. Luther grips the thick rope, giving it a swing to see how far it went. with a sigh he nods to Diego, as he gets strapped in, Ben in front of him.

'' We're safe-HAH! he'll have to sail around for hours till he finds a safe harbor!'' Ben rolls his eyes as he glances down and over Luther's shoulder. Luther keeps a steely gaze, making sure not to look at Ben. who was like a fly buzzing vaguely, annoyingly, in front of him. The height of the cliffs was terrifying, sure, but climbing it would have been a picnic if he wasn’t carrying three people.

he kept a tight grip as they went on and on. Delores is almost out of her mind with fear. she kept her eyes closed tightly, burying her face in Luther's back. As the cliffs seemed to ring, conflicting the air; Luther is moving right along; however high they are, he's already over a third of the way done.

leaping from his ship to the rope, the man in black starts to climb.Gaining on them like a mad man in a race. He's impossibly far behind, but from above looks as if he is flying up the rope, hand over hand like lightning.

"Crap-he's climbing the rope, Ben!'' Diego shouted at him, the vertigo clearly getting to him.'' BEN HE'S GAINING ON US-''

"INCONCEIVABLE!'' Ben prods Luther to go faster, only slightly increasing his pace. As the man in black is cutting into Luther's lead on him.'' FASTER YOU DUMB B-''

'' I thought I WAS going faster-'' Luther sasses.

'' UGH- You're supposed to be this COLOSSUS, A great legendary thing- and yet he GAINS-'' Ben retorted, practically spitting in his face as he spoke.

'' Well I'm carrying THREE PEOPLE. AND HE ONLY HAS ONLY HIMSELF-''

" I do not accept excuses, especially not from a half-giant such as yourself!'' Ben crones, pushing at Luther's shoulders. Luther scowled at him, he hated how this small man spoke to him as if he was dull. it seemed as if every human he came across took him for a fool or an inconvenience. Ben was no different, a petulant man who had happened to have power over him. Luther was wanted by no one. nor giant or human. Ben offered him a living, money to get by with, so he took his insults. if it meant he could see a better day but it certainly didn't feel right. Carrying a captured princess up a cliff, especially one like Delores. she held fear or prejudice in her eyes when she looked at him. But pure hidden rage, rage he knew all too well. and she knew it too. she wasn't the fool that Ben made her out to be as he did with Luther.

'' Don't you dare speak to him like that!’’ Delores cut in, head peeking over his shoulder. '' we're nearly to the top and you scold him? Why? We could fall off at any second if you keep wiggling and whining yourself around like that!''

'' He is my lackey, I'll speak to him however I'd like, princess.'' Ben rolled his eyes and kept his gaze on Luther. '' SO AGAIN.GO FASTER-''

        ….

At the cliffs peak the group rises over the last rock. Once on steady ground Ben leaps off of Luther. Peaking over the cliff's edge, the man in black 50 feet below them, his pace as dazzling as before.Ben takes out a knife, begins to cut the rope which is tied around a great rock while Luther helps the Princess to her feet and Diego just stands around watching Ben work. The place was a stronghold of wars past, now resembling a stonehenge. Ben gets through the last of the rope; which slithers across the ground toward the Channel, like some great serpent at last going home.

'' he's got pretty good arms for human.'' Luther mutters to Diego, who only huffs in response as if to say 'you think?'.The man in black clings to the jagged rocks desperately for life, now suspended hundreds of feet in the air.

'' He didn't fall?! INCONCEIVABLE!!'' Ben turns to the others, stunned in shock for once.

'' You keep using that word — I do not think it means what you think it means.'' Diego whirls on Ben, whom glares at him childishly. Diego waves him off and glances down again.'' My god he's climbing-''

And so the man in black is; Very slowly picking his way upwards, a foot at a time. Ben rubs his temple, watching him as he thinks to himself.'' Whoever he is, hes obviously seen us with the princess, and must therefore die.''

'' You, carry her.'' Ben decides, elbow resting on his wrist as he orders Luther. who speaks out of ear shot to the princess before picking her up bridal style. Getting a small laugh out from her. Ben scoffs at the pair and turns to Diego. '' We'll head straight for the Guilder frontier. Catch up when he's dead. If he falls, fine. If not, the sword.''

'' I want to duel him right-handed.'' Diego tells him, eyes sparkling.

'' God! You know what a hurry we're in-''

'' Well, it's the only way I can be satisfied.'' He absolutely reveled in swordplay. any moment it called for him to use his blade, he'd make it a true performance. if not for others, but for himself. "If I use my right —tch — over too quickly.''

'' Fine have it your way-'' Ben groans, and motions along Luther. Diego watches them depart. 

Chapter Text

Diego turns, peers down over the Cliffs. He watches a moment, then paces, shaking his hands loose. Keeping himself active by fencing with his sword. He is a taut and restless fellow, and has never been one for waiting around. The man in black climbs on. He must be six inches closer to the top than where Diego last saw him. Diego is watching and walking away. Finally he goes back to the cliff edge, waiting for the man to notice him before talking. It's instant death if the Man In Black falls, but neither gives that possibility much credence. This is our two heroes meeting, in all its irony. Neither don't know it yet; being that they see each other as possible enemies. but that's what it is.

'' Hello there!'' Diego hollered down at him.The Man In Black glances up, kind of grunts. '' Slow going?''

'' Look, I don't mean to be rude, but this is not as easy as it looks.'' The man in black shouts up cattily, breath nearly exhausted. '' So I'd appreciate it if you wouldn't distract me.''

'' Sorry.''

'' Thank you.''

Diego rolls his eyes and steps away drawing his sword. proceeding to loosens up with a few perfect thrusts of his sword again. Then resheathes and looks eagerly over the edge again.'' I do not suppose you could speed things up?''

'' If you're in such a hurry, you could lower a rope, or a tree branch, or find something useful to do.'' He huffs.

'' I could do that. In fact, I've got some rope up here. But I do not think that you will accept my help, since I am only waiting around to kill you.''

'' That does put a damper on our relationship.''

'' But I promise I will not kill you until you reach the top.'' Diego swears, a small smile playing on his lips.The man snorts softly as he finds another rock to grip too.

'' That's very comforting. But I'm afraid you'll just have to wait.''

'' I hate waiting. I-I could give you my word as a Spaniard?'' He tries again, eager for the impending sword fight.

'' No good. I've known too many Spaniards.'' The man in black just hangs there on the rocks, resting, gathering his strength. Taking this time to entertain this stranger's conversation.

'' You don't know any way you'll trust me?''

'' Nothing comes to mind.'' The man heaves , climbing up higher. but something does for Diego.

'' I swear on the soul of my Mother, Grace Castañeda, you will reach the top alive.'' he promises, With an indistinct smile upon his face. He raises his right hand high, his eyes blaze, and voice taking on a tone of great virtue. The man in black pauses for a second, swallowing hard, a slight blush underneath his black mask. Then, quietly he answers Diego.

'' Throw me the rope.''

Diego grins and dashes to the giant rock the rope was originally tied to. The man in black's grip loosens a moment, trying to cling to the side of the cliff. Diego now in his view holds a thick coil of rope, hurries back to the edge and hurls it over. The rope hangs close to the Man In Black. He releases the rocks, grabs the rope, hangs helplessly in space for a moment. then

looks up at Diego straining, forcing his body away from the cliff edge. Pulling the man in black up and off the cliff. The man crawls to the top; rising through the early morning light, slowly and steadily.

'' Thank you.'' The man in black breaths, pushing back the bit of hair underneath his mask. Diego huffs slightly, as he sizes him up. the man in black being almost 2 heads shorter than him. The man unsheathes his sword, breath uneven, face flushed. But nevertheless ready to face this eager stranger in a sword duel.

'' We'll wait until you're ready.''

'' Again. Thank you.'' The Man In Black sits to rest on the boulder that once held the rope. He tugs off his leather boots, much to his surprise, several large rocks tumble out. Diego glances down at his gloved hands, as if he was trying to decipher something.

'' I do not mean to pry, but you don't by any chance happen to have six fingers on your right hand?'' Diego asks in the most casual way possible. Causing the man in black to glance up in mixed confusion. the question utterly baffling him.

'' Do you always begin conversations this way?''

'' My Mother was slaughtered by a six-fingered man. She was a great seamstress, my Mother. Best in the land And when the six-fingered man appeared one day, asking for her hand in marriage. My Mother denied him, which angered him greatly.Being that he was a man of high status. But The six-fingered man tried pursuing her for a year before disappearing once again.'' Diego explains, extensively with great pain on his face. '' The six-fingered man returned and demanded to marry her once again; quite forcefully. My Mother refused. the six-fingered man took out his sword…and… slashed her through the heart. I loved my Mother, so, naturally, challenged his murderer to a duel... I failed ...''

'' The six-fingered man did leave me alive, but he gave me these.'' Diego continued, voice gravelly. He touches two twin scars on either side of his face. they were prominent, yet healed, going from just below his eyes to his ears.

'' How old were you?'' The man in black cuts in, quite taken by the stranger's tale.

'' I was eleven years old. When I was strong enough, I dedicated my life to the study of fencing. So the next time I meet him, I will not fail. I will go up to the six-fingered man and say, 'Hello, my name is Diego Castañeda. You killed my Mother.Prepare to die.' '' He goes on.

'' You've done nothing but study swordplay? ''

'' More pursuit than study lately.'' Diego grumbles.'' You see, I cannot find him. It's been twenty years now. I am starting to lose confidence. I just work for Ben to pay the bills. There's not a lot of money in revenge.''

'' Well, I certainly hope you find him, someday.'' The man rises, the conversation ending.

'' You are ready, then?''

'' Whether I am or not, you've been more than fair.''

'' You seem a decent fellow. I'm gonna hate to kill you.'' Diego, tilts his head slightly with a smile. letting the man walk back a few paces before they fought.

'' You seem a decent fellow. I'd hate to die.'' The man in black tells him, voice dripping with charm as he unsheathes his sword.

'' Begin!'' Diego shouts, and on that word lunges his sword at him.And on that word the start of one of the two greatest sword fights in the country florin. and right from the beginning it looks different from other sword fights. Because they aren't close to each other — none of the swords crossing "en garde" crap. these two men, two athletes. They seem too far away to damage each other, but each time one makes even the tiniest feint, the other counters, and there is silence when they cycle each other. Poking out their blades like a hand to fire.

Once done teasing each other, the duel begins in earnest.Their swords cross, then again, again, and the sound comes so fast it's almost continual. Diego presses on, the Man In Black retreating up a rocky incline.

'' You're using Bonetti's defense against me, ah?'' Diego asks, thrilled by the duel already.

'' I thought it fitting, considering the rocky terrain —''

'' Naturally, you must expect me to attack with Capo Ferro.'' Diego nods, and shifts his style.

''—Naturally—'' The man in black repeats, coping as best he can. Suddenly shifts again.The Man In Black is now perched at the edge of the elevated castle ruin. No where to go, he jumps to the sand. Diego stares down at him. ''—But I find Thibault cancels out Capo Ferro, don't you?''

'' Unless the enemy has studied his Agrippa- '' And now, with the grace of an Olympian, Diego flies off the perch, somersaults clean over the Man In Black's head, and lands facing his opponent. ''— which I have.''

The two men are almost flying across the rocky terrain, never losing balance, never coming close to stumbling; the battle rages with incredible finesse, first one and then the other gaining the advantage, and by now, it's clear that this isn't just a random sword fight. This is two legendary swashbucklers and they're in their prime, a pirate from the story books and a man of the people '' Robin Hood.'' And then, incredibly, the action begins going even faster than before.

Diego And behind the pirate now, drawing closer is the deadly edge of the Cliffs of Insanity. Diego fights and ducks and feints and slashes and it all works. But not for long, as gradually the Man In Black keeps the advantage, keeps forcing Diego back, closer and closer to death.

'' You are wonderful!'' Diego holds back a chuckle, clearly happy as a clam.

'' Thank you — I've worked hard to become so.'' The man forces Diego to The Cliff edge, which gains on Diego by the second.
'' I admit it — you are better than I am.'' Diego lies.

'' Then why are you smiling?'' The man in black quirks a brow. Diego is Inches from defeat, and is in fact, all smiles.

'' Because I know something you don't know.''

'' And what is that?''

'' I am not right-handed. '' Diego smirks as he throws his sword into his right hand and immediately, the tide of battle turns.The man in black is stunned, doing everything he can to keep Diego by the Cliff edge. But no use. Slowly at first, he begins to retreat. Now faster, Diego is in control and the Man In Black is desperate. Diego's sword is all but invisible now, as he increases his attack, then suddenly switches styles again. A rocky staircase leading to a turret-shaped plateau, and the Man In Black is retreating like mad up the steps and he can't stop Diego — nothing can stop Diego. In a frenzy, the Man In Black makes every feint, tries every thrust, let's go with all he has left. But he fails. Everything fails. He tries one or two final desperate moves but they are nothing.

'' You're amazing!''

'' I ought to be after twenty years.'' And now the Man In Black is smashed into a stone pillar, pinned there under Diego's sword.

'' There's something I ought to tell you.'' he hollers out.

'' Tell me.''

'' I am not Right-handed either. '' The man in black states And now he changes hands, at last, the battle is fully joined. To Diego's amazement,  he is being forced back down the steps. He tries one style, another, but it all comes down to the same thing — the Man In Black seems to be in control. And before Diego knows it, the six-fingered sword is knocked clear out of his hand. Diego retreats, dives from the stairs to a moss-covered bar suspended over the archway.

He swings out, lands, and scrambles to his sword. The man in black who watches Diego , then casually tosses his sword to the landing where it sticks in perfectly. Then the Man In Black copies Diego. Not copies exactly, improves. He dives to the bar, swings completely over it like a circus performer and dismounts with a back flip.

'' Who are you?!'' Diego shoats from a distance, with an amazing toned in his voice.No one of consequence.'' I must know. ''

'' Get used to disappointment.''

'' Okay! '' Diego grins, moving like lightning, and he thrusts forward, slashes, darts back, all in almost a single movement. The man in black Dodges, blocks, and again he thrusts forward, faster even than before, and again he slashes but— Diego makes a move never done before. Time he blocks the slash, slashes out the pirate with his sword. On it goes, back and forth across the rocky terrain, Diego's feet moving with the grace and speed of a great improvisational dancer.

On it goes, back and forth across the rocky terrain, Diego's feet moving with the grace and speed of a great improvisational dancer. His sword is knocked free, arching in the air, he pushes the pirate back and- catches it again.something terrible is written behind his eyes: he has given his all, done everything man can do, tried every style, made every maneuver, but it wasn't enough. On his face for all to see is the realization that he, Diego Castañeda of Spain, is going to lose. The man in black moves in for the end now, blocking everything, muzzling everything and His sword sent flying from Diego's grip. He stands helpless for only a moment. Then he drops to his knees, bows his head, shuts his eyes.

'' kill me quickly.'' Diego drawls, chin pulled up by the sword's edge.

'' I would as soon destroy a stained glass window as an artist like yourself. However, since I can't have you following me either —'' He dunks Diego's head with his heavy sword handle. Diego pitches forward unconscious. '' Because I am on a mission, so please understand, I hold you in the highest respect.''

The man in black watches him fall, sighing and glancing to the path out of the ruins. Squinting, searching for anyone in the distance. which there is, his eyes sparkle with something new, something familiar. Grip tight on his scabbard, he runs off after the Princess.

Chapter Text

'' INCONCEIVABLE!'' Ben shoats, staring down from a narrow mountain path, as far below the Man In Black can be seen running. Luther, carrying the Princess, stands alongside. It's a little later in the morning. '' Give her to me.''

'' Catch up with us quickly, Luther.'' He orders, pulling Delores out from the giant's arms. the princess struggles back from him blindfolded, trying to search for Luther's hand and steadies herself with it. Luther glances from the princess to Ben, panicking.

'' What do i do?'' Luther asks, clear as day he's never been in a fight before.

'' Finish him! Finish him. YOUR WAY.''

'' Oh, good, my way. Thank you, Ben. what is '' my way '' in your eyes?'' Luther huffs, glancing at the rocks Ben pointed too. Nothing gigantic, But many a large boulder nearby.

'' Pick up one of those rocks, get behind the boulder, and in a few minutes, the Man in Black will come running around the bend. The minute his head is in view, hit it with the rock!'' Ben tells him, grabbing a small rock as a visual aid.

'' Be safe.'' Delores bids her goodbye, letting go of his hand. Ben hurrying her along with a tight grip. '' Please. Men in black masks are not to be trusted.''

''I know– I'll try…'' he tells her softly, with a little frown, and scratches his head as he glances around. ''Though my way's not very sportsmanlike…''

He grabs one of the rocks and plods behind the boulder. The man in black races up the mountain trail. Ahead is a bend in the trail.He sees it, slows. Then he stops listening. Satisfied by the silence, he starts forward again and as he rounds the bend — a rock flies in view, shattering on a boulder inches in front of him.

'' I did that on purpose.'' Luther, he moves down the path, holding another rock over his broad shoulder.'' I don't have to miss.''

'' I believe you!'' The Pirate perks up, taking in the half-giant.'' So what happens now?''

'' We face each other as the earth intended for. Sportsmanlike. No tricks, no weapons, skill against skill alone.''

'' You mean, you'll put down your rock and I'll put down my sword, and we'll try to kill each other like civilized people?

'' I could kill you now.'' Luther says gently, He gets set to throw, but the pirate shakes his head.

'' Frankly, I think the odds are slightly in your favor at hand fighting.'' the man in black takes off his sword and scabbard, begins the approach toward the Half-Giant.

'' It's not my fault being the biggest and the strongest. I don't even exercise.'' he flips the rock away.The Man In Black is not now and has never been a shrimp. But it's like he wasn't even there, Luther towers over him so much. There is a moment's pause, and then the Man In Black dives at Luther's chest, slams him several tremendous blows in the stomach, twists his arm severely. Slipping the small man into a beautifully applied bear hug, and in general makes any number of terrific wrestling moves.Luther just stands there, kind of taking in the scenery. Finally the Man In Black pushes himself away, stares up at the Giant.

'' Look are you just fiddling around with me or what?'' He heaves, a wild look in his eyes.

'' I just want you to feel you're doing well! I hate for people to die embarrassed.'' They get set to begin again. Luther jumps forward with stunning speed for anyone his size and reaches for the Man In Black. who drops to his knees, spins loose, and slips between the Giant's legs. '' You're quick.''

'' And a good thing too.''

'' Why do you wear a mask? Were you burned by acid, or something like that?'' Luther gets another onslaught.

'' Oh no. It's just that they're terribly comfortable. I think everyone will be wearing them in the future.'' The pirate jokes, the giant stares at him for a moment processing his weak joke. Then attacks, and if he moved quickly last time, this time he is blinding and as the Man In Black slips down to avoid the charge, Luther moves right with him, only instead of twisting free and jumping to his feet, this time the Man In Black jumps for Luther's back and in a moment he is riding him, and his arms have Luther's throat, locked across Luther's windpipe, one in front, on behind. The Man In Black begins to squeeze tighter to no avail.

'' I just figured out why you give me so much trouble.'' Luther stands, speaking as he does so as he charges toward a huge rock that lines the path, and just as he reaches it he spins his giant body so that the entire weight of the charge is taken by the Man In Black. the power of the charge is terrible, the pain sparking through his body. but he clings to his grip at Luther's windpipe.

'' Why is that, do you think?'' the pirate heaves, his arms never leaving the half-giant's throat.

'' Well, I haven't fought just one person for so long. I've been specializing in groups. Battling gangs for local charities, that kind of thing.'' Luther's voice is just beginning to get a little strained. but pushed back the pirate from him, making him stumble to the ground. Luther charges, slower this time, but still a charge.He spins and creams the Man In Black against the rough boulder. The punishment is terrible, and for a moment it seems as if he is going to let go of Luther's windpipe and crumble, but he doesn't, he holds on.

'' Why should that make such a difference?''

'' Well ... you see, you use different moves when you're fighting half a dozen people than when you only have to be worried about one.'' Luther's voice grows weaker, as Again he slams the Man In Black against a boulder.

Only this time his power has diminished and Luther starts to slowly collapse. The man in black holds his grip as Luther tries to stand, halfway makes it, but there is no air. Back to his knees he falls, holds there for a moment, and pitches down to all fours.

'' if you do make it to him… please don't her.'' Luther croaks.

''I am no monster.''

The Man In Black increases the pressure. Luther tries to crawl. But there is just no air. No air. Luther goes to earth and lies still. the Man In Black turns him over, puts his ear to Luther's heart. It beats. The Man In Black stands.

'' I don't envy you the headache you will have when you awake. But, in the meantime, rest well ... and dream of uh…women or men i dont know-'' The man in black rubs the back of his neck and stiffly walks away from Luther's body. And he nimbly scoops up his sword with his foot, catches it and as he dashes off up along the mountain path.

   ….

It had been a long and frantic night for the princes of florin. all had seen the princess's horse through the market. As well as the enemy's kingdom's crest, the talk of war was fresh in the air as the prince left for his '' love.'' he would have none of it, and made do. through the night's forests and fields he made it to the ruins atop the cliffs of insanity.

Behind him in the ruins, half a dozen armed warriors are still and mounted.a great white horse waited riderless in front. Prince Atlas was all over the rocky ground, and searching for foot prints. Count Reginald watches amateur miming the fencers whom were here before him.

'' There was a mighty duel — it ranged all over.'' The prince waved his hands over the site, studying it closely. '' Both masters.''

'' How did it end?'' the count inquires.

'' The loser ran off alone.'' The prince gazed down at the dissipated dirt where Diego's once unconscious body was. the prince then suddenly points in the direction Ben and Luther took. '' The winner followed those footprints toward Guilder…''

'' Shouldn't we track them both?''

'' The loser is nothing.'' The prince sighs.'' Only the Princess matters to them—Clearly this was all planned by warriors of Guilder. So we must be ready for whatever lies ahead.''

'' This could be a trap, your highness.'' He warns.

'' Everything could be a trap, Reginald.'' The Prince vaults onto his horse, signaling to his men And gallops off.

Chapter Text

Cresting the peak of the mountain Ben munches on an apple, holding the knife to Buttercup's throat.A picnic spread is laid out. A tablecloth, two goblets and between them, a small leather wine container. And some cheese and a couple of apples. The picnic is set on a lovely spot, high on the edge of a mountain path with a view all the way back to the high hills. The Man In Black comes running around the path, once seeing Ben, he slows.

'' So, it is down to you.'' Ben drawls, the two study each other for a beat.The Man In Black nods and comes nearer. '' And it is down to me.''
'' If you wish her dead, by all means keep moving forward.'' Ben flashes him a crashed smile as he pushes his long knife harder against Buttercup's unprotected throat. her eyes were covered by a thick layer of cloth. with a heart breaking calm expression that made the pirates' hearts drop.

'' Let me explain-''

'' There's nothing to explain! You're trying to kidnap what I've rightfully stolen.''

'' Perhaps an arrangement can be reached-'' The man in black starts, putting his hand up in surrender.

'' There will be no arrangement!'' Delores cuts in, moving slightly enough for the sword to puncture her skin. she grits her teeth, holding back a gasp. A single drop of blood runs down her neck. '' Death is miles more appealing then either of you criminals—''

'' HAH-'' Ben interrupts her, baffled, his tone mildly impressed with her boldness. '' See even SHE doesn't want to go with you-''

'' But if there can be no arrangement, then we are at an impasse.'' the pirate observes, stopping fast in his tracks.

'' I'm afraid so — I can't compete with you physically. And you're no match for my brains.'' Ben explains with an air of suave, yet causal confidence.

'' You're that smart?'' the man in black asks dryly, looking him up and down.

'' Let me put it this way: have you ever heard of Plato, Aristotle, Socrates?''

'' Yes.''

'' Morons.''

'' Really? In that case, I challenge you to a battle of wits.'' he decides, a wide grin on his face and promptly sitting down.

'' For the Princess?'' Ben guesses, The Man In Black nods.

'' To the death?'' Ben gets Another nod. '' I accept.''

'' Good. Then pour the wine.'' the man in black motions to the goblets. As Ben fills the goblets with the dark red liquid, the Man In Black pulls a small packet from his clothing, handing it to Ben. "inhale this, but do not touch.''

'' I smell nothing,'' he sneers after taking a whiff.

'' What you do not smell is called Iocane powder.'' The pirate takes the packet back, putting in to one of his many pockets.'' It is odorless, tasteless, dissolves instantly in liquid, and is among the more deadlier poisons known to man.''

'' Hmm.'' Ben watches excitedly as the Man In Black takes the goblets, turns his back. A moment later, he turns again facing Ben and drops the Iocane packet. It is now empty.

'' All right: where is the poison? The battle of wits has begun.'' The Man In Black rotates the goblets in a little shell game maneuver then puts one glass in front of Ben the other in front of him. '' It ends when you decide and we both drink, and find out who is right and who is dead.''

'' But it's so simple! All I have to do is divine from what I know of you. Are you the sort of man who would put the poison into his own goblet, or his enemy's?'' Ben studies the Man In Black now. Who gave nothing but a smile to him, a mischievous one at that, with an air of darkness to it. Perhaps it was just the default, but the pirate's battle scarred hands and black attire did not help. '' Now, a clever man would put the poison into his own goblet, because he would know that only a great fool would reach for what he was given. I'm not a great fool, so I can clearly not choose the wine in front of you. But you must have known I was not a great fool; you would have counted on it, so I can clearly not choose the wine in front of me.''

'' You've made your decision then?'' his lips twitched nervously.

'' Not remotely! Because Iocane comes from Australia, as everyone knows. And Australia is entirely peopled with criminals. And criminals are used to having people not trust them, as you are not trusted by me.'' he motioned to the pirates goblet.'' So I can clearly not choose the wine in front of you.''

'' Truly, you have a dizzying intellect.''

'' Wait till I get going!'' Ben huffed, clearly in the groove of his rant now. '' Where was I?''

'' Australia.''

'' Yes–Australia, and you must have suspected I would have known the powder's origin, so I can clearly not choose the wine in front of me.''

'' You're just stalling now.'' the man in black cut in once again, very nervous now.

'' You'd like to think that, wouldn't you?'' he cackles, staring the pirate down.

'' You've beaten my giant, which means you're exceptionally strong.'' the man really wasn't,just wily. '' So, you could have put the poison in your own goblet, trusting on your strength to save you. So I can clearly not choose the wine in front of you. But, you've also bested my Spaniard which means you must have studied. And in studying, you must have learned that man is mortal so you would have put the poison as far from yourself as possible, so I can clearly not choose the wine in front of me.''

As Ben 's pleasure has been growing throughout his monologue.The Man In Black's had been fast disappearing. though he listened intently, he was getting antsy as he glanced at the princess. She went from the scene at hand, with an annoyed yet calm air. Though she was blindfolded, with blood nearly dried on her neck, looked the other way.

'' You're trying to trick me into giving away something — it won't work —'' The pirate grit his teeth.

'' It has worked !— YOU'VE GIVEN EVERYTHING AWAY!'' Ben exclaims triumphantly.'' I know where the poison is.''

'' Then make your choice.''

'' I will. And I choose —'' And suddenly he stops, keenly aware he knew nothing of were the poison lied. So he doesn't think and points at something behind the Man In Black. '' What in the world can that be?''

'' What? Where? I don't see anything.'' when the pirate turned around, looking for anything; Ben busily switched the goblets while the Man In Black had his head turned.

'' Oh, well, I-I could have sworn I saw something. No matter.'' The Man In Black turns to face him again. Ben starts to laugh.

'' What's so funny?'' he deadpanned.

'' I'll tell you in a minute. First, let's drink —me from my glass, and you from yours.'' And he picks up his goblet. The Man In Black picks up the one in front of him. As they both start to drink, Ben hesitates a moment. Then, allowing the Man In Black to drink first, he swallows his wine.

'' Hm, You guessed wrong.'' The pirate was mildly relieved till Ben started roaring with laughter.

'' You only think I guessed wrong —'' Ben laughed louder now,'' That's what's so funny! I switched glasses when your back was turned. YOU FOOL!''

The man in black has nothing he can say. He just sits there as Ben watches him.

'' You fell victim to one of the classic blunders! The most famous is "Never get involved in a land war in Asia." But only slightly less well known is this: "NEVER GO AGAINST A KOREAN WHEN DEATH IS ON THE LINE!" He laughs and roars and cackles and whoops and is in all ways quite cheery until he falls over dead. the man in black lets out a long sigh.

Slowly, he steps over Ben's corpse to Delores. he takes off her bindings and blindfold. Taking the blind fold to the blood on her neck. swiftly whipping it away. Delores blinked, as  the pirate unbound her. then noticed Ben's corpse on the ground. In momentary shock she laughed nervously.

'' Who are you?'' Delores asks, some heat in her voice, as the pirate pulls her up to her feet.

'' I am no one to be trifled with, that is all you ever need know.'' Delores scoffed, the man in black took her by the wrist. Leading her off the mountain path into untraveled terrain.

'' To think —all that time it was your cup that was poisoned.'' she took a final glance back toward Ben.

'' They were both poisoned. I spent the last few years building up an immunity to Iocane powder.'' The man in black grins, bringing delores up on her feet.

''huh.'' Delores murmurs, proceeding to spit on the ground near Ben's body. And with that he takes off, dragging the unruly princess along.

Chapter Text

Now back on the Mountain path where Luther fought the Man in Black. the Prince, kneels inspecting every grain of misplaced sand. The others wait behind him.

'' Someone has beaten a giant!’’ He figures,  brows furrowed as he slowly gets up.'' There will be great suffering in Guilder if she dies!''

And with that He leaping onto his horse, rounding the path’s bend sharply and they charge off.

     ….

The Man In Black comes running into view, still dragging Buttercup, who sometimes stumbles, but he keeps forcing her along the terrain. Which was a rocky hill and void of fauna.Finally, when she is close to exhaustion, he lets go of her.

'' Catch your breath.'' His voice is harsh now, carrying the promise of violence as she lands down on a rock.

'' If you'll release me ... whatever you ask for ransom, you'll get it, I promise you.'' The princess spoke out of breath. glancing down at him as she sat down.

'' And what is that worth, the promise of a Princess?'' the pirate smirked at her, looking her up.'' You're very funny, Highness.

'' I was giving you one chance.'' She promised, matching his smirk.'' No matter where you take me...there's no greater hunter than Prince Atlas. He could rack a falcon on a cloudy day. He can find you.''

'' You think your dearest love will save you?''

'' I never said he was my dearest love.'' she states quite firmly.'' And yes, he will save me. That I know.''

'' You admit to me you do not love your fiance?'' He moves away from the rock he leaned on. Going to her now surprised in both tone and expression. Almost…Hopeful.

'' He knows I do not love him.''

" 'Are not capable of love' is what you mean.'' he corrects her, now himself again.

'' I have loved more deeply than a killer like yourself could ever dream.'' Delores hisses And the Man In Black cocks back a fist at her. but she does not flinch, nor backs off.

'' That was a warning, Highness. The next time, my hand flies on its own. For where I come from, there are penalties when a woman lies.'' The pirate chides her, only serving to make her more peeved with him. all the same he takes her hand in a surprisingly gentle way and pulls her along once again.

       ….

The picnic is spread as before, where Ben's corpse still lays limp. the Prince kneels by the body as the others ride up. The Prince grabs the empty poison packet, hands it to Reginald, after first sniffing it himself.

'' Iocane. I'd bet my life on it.'' he huffs, gesturing to the trail ahead.he was quite annoyed now, the chase prolonged again.'' And there are the Princess's footprints. She is alive ... or was, an hour ago. If she is otherwise when I find her, I shall be very put out.''

And as he vaults onto his horse and the all charge off.

     ….

'' Rest, Highness.'' He mutters. She falls heavily as the Man In Black releases her. they are at the edge of an almost sheer ravine. The drop is sharp and severe. Below, the ravine floor is flat, and grassy. but getting there would not be half the fun.

'' I know who you are — your cruelty reveals everything.'' She claims, words clear with hate as she sits down, her eyes bored into the pirate. The man in black says nothing. '' You're the Dread Pirate Hargreaves; admit it.''

'' With pride!'' His voice is light as he bows mockingly to her. '' What can I do for you?''

'' You can die slowly cut into a thousand pieces.'' she tells him in a single breath, as if to wish it into existence. He clicks his tongue at her response.

'' Hardly complimentary, Your Highness.'' The pirate states unassumingly,'' Why lose your venom on me?''

'' You killed my love.'' She states, voice quite yet fervent. Speaking millions in their silence. her hate clear to him now, the princesses face contorted in anger.After a beat he speaks again.

'' It's possible; I kill a lot of people. Who was this love of yours? Another Prince, like this one, ugly, rich, and scabby?'' As the dread pirate went on he circled her, before stopping again.

'' No. A farm boy. Poor.'' Delores corrected him immediately, voice growing distant and nostalgic.The dread pirate's heart ached, she meant him. '' Poor and perfect, with eyes like the sea after a storm. ''

As she described her him, imagining her love before her once again.Though she did hate Hargreaves so, she shed a tear. a tear she got rid of quickly to kill any amusement he may have gotten from it.

'' On the high seas, your ship attacked-'' Delores voice broke slightly, mustering up courage and spite.'' And the Dread Pirate Roberts never takes prisoners.''

'' I can't afford to make exceptions.'' The dread pirate Hargreaves explained as a teacher might.Hiding his emotion with a smile as he sat down on a log.'' Once word leaks out that a pirate has gone soft, people begin to disobey you, and then it's nothing but work, work, work, all the time.

'' You mock my pain!'' She hissed.

'' Life is pain, Highness. Anyone who says differently is selling something.'' His voice dies down to something more serious. he gets up, hands crossed behind his back.'' I remember this farm boy of yours, I think. This would be, what, five years ago?''

He looks to her for confirmation, but she does not nod nor look at him.

'' Does it bother you to hear this?''

'' Nothing you can say will upset me.'' Delores lied, she was a strong woman. she cried a single tear a moment before. and she would not do it again for his amusement.

'' He died well, that should please you. No bribe attempts or blubbering. He simply said, "Please. Please, I need to live." It was the "please" that caught my memory.'' The dread pirate Hargreaves explained to her, grasping at the memory with the softest of voices.'' I asked him what was so important for him. "True love," he replied.''

Delores looked over to him now, eyes wet at the thought of her farm boy at the brink of death.

'' And then he spoke of a girl of a surpassing beauty and faithfulness. I can only assume he meant you. You should bless me for destroying him before he found out what you really are.'' The pirate spat his venom at her. Making her stand right up, seething.

'' And what am I?'' She hisses.

'' Faithfulness he talked of, madam. Your enduring faithfulness.Now, tell me truly. When you found out he was gone, did you get engaged to your prince that same hour, or did you wait a whole week out of respect for the dead?''

'' You mocked me once, never do it again! I DIED THAT DAY!'' Delores shouted, she wanted to rip this guy's face off. He didn't know her, who she truly was, what she's been through. He had no right to toy with her in such a way! The Man In Black is about to reply as they stand there on the edge of the sheer ravine. But then something catches his attention and as he stares at it briefly, a dust cloud. Made by Atlas's Horses is rising up into the sky. while his attention is on the dust cloud, rising high, Delores towers over him from behind.

'' You can die too, for all I care!!'' Delores states, voice firm with anger as she push him with all the strength she has.The man in black teeters on the ravine edge, for a moment, then he begins to fall. Down goes the Man In Black. Down, down, rolling, spinning, crashing always down toward the flat rock floor of the ravine. Delores staring transfixed at what she has wrought. There is a long pause. She stands there, alone, as from far below the words come to her, drifting on the wind —

'' ... as ... you ... wish...''

'' Oh, my sweet Five; what have I done?'' Delores exhales, eyes swelling up, covering her mouth in realization.And without a second thought or consideration of the dangers, she starts into the ravine. A moment later, she too is falling, spinning and twisting, crashing and torn, cartwheeling down toward what is left of her beloved.

      ….

The dust cloud rises.Prince Atlas and the others reining in at the spot where Delores promised ransom in exchange for her freedom. The Prince shakes his head.

'' Disappeared. He must have seen us closing in, which might account for his panicking in error. Unless I'm wrong, and I am never wrong, they are headed dead into the fire swamp.'' the prince explains.

Count Reginald grimaces, The mere mention of the Fire Swamp makes him pale.

    ….

On the ravines floor our hero's lie a few feet apart, not moving. They might be corpses. After a time, Five quickly forces his body into motion. his love's head turns at the sound of him. She was bruised and torn as he crawled to her.

'' Can you move at all?'' five asks, propping her head up slightly as he holds her.

'' Move?'' Delores laughs, tears quick to come. five runs hand over the side of her face, thumb rubbing her cheek as she spoke. '' You're alive!! If you want, I can fly-''

Five brings her into a tight embrace, letting her sob for as long as she liked. After a while he pulls back, face full of concern.

'' I told you, ‘I would always come for you.’ Why didn't you wait for me?'' Five had been wanting to ask that from the minute he saw her. He was angered at the news that Delores was to be married. it made no sense…

'' Well my father was going to lose the farm and you..you were dead.'' Delores states, studying her lover's face. The mask was long gone now. lost in the tumble. He looked the same as he did all those years ago, only rougher.

'' Death cannot stop true love. All it can do is delay it for a while.'' Truer words have never been spoken till now. yet he said it so simply, like it was as blatant as the sun in our sky.

'' I will never doubt again.''

'' There will never be a need.'' He breathed, And now slowly, they begin to kiss; a tender yet gentle kiss—

'' Oh no. No, please.'' Niam cuts in with a groan. Now back in his bedroom, Ronnie looks up from the book, surprised.

'' What is it? What's the matter?'' his grandfather sighs, and here he thought he could get through this book without interruptions.

'' They're kissing again, do we have to hear the kissing part?'' The little boy complained. His grandfather chuckled.

'' Someday, you may not mind so much.'' Ronnie shrugged.

'' Skip on to the Fire Swamp — that sounded good!!''

'' Oh. You're sick, I'll humor you,'' He picks up the book again, readjusting his glasses.'' So now, where were we here? Yeah, yeah, yeah. Ah. Oh. Okay. Five and Delores raced along the ravine floor…''

Chapter Text

The sun blocked his vision as he glanced up as the ran. The sound of braying horses alerted him to the hill top arrival of the prince. Him and his men perched on the cliff, looking down on Delores and five.

''Ha! your fish of a fiancé is to late-'' he told her with a stroke of confidence. Five had tried to say it with Chevalier-like nonchalance, but she wasn't buying. '' a few more steps and well be in the fire swamp!''

'' The fire swamp?'' she repeated, following behind him.'' No one is told to survive it-''

'' Nonsense! they only say that because no one ever has!'' Five laughed and with that the raced off into the swamp's forest entrance. leaving the prince and his men defeated. The swamp doesn't look any worse than any other moist, sulphureous, infernal horror you might run across. With Great trees blocking out the sun, it left a swampish green cast over the forest. Buttercup is clearly panicked-and maybe five is too, but he moves jauntily along, sword in hand.

''Its actually not that bad." he notes, getting a weird look from his girl.'' what? I'm not saying I would build a home here but- the trees are actually quite lovely-very jungle like.''

As he speaks a giant spurt of flames comes out form the ground. Preceded by a slight popping sound, it misses Delores but five is now on fire ; at least his lower half. Before he could scream Delores instantly forces five to sit up, gathering the hem of his boot and pants in her hands. doing her best to suffocate the fire. this isn't all easy for a lady like her, and causes her a bit of grief, but she does her best to give him a comforting smile when done.

'' Well now that was a bit of adventure.'' He coughs as she checks where the flame burst over him.

'' Singed a bit?''

'' No, you?'' He shakes his head.

Delores was, and she shakes her head "no." As she pulls him to his feet— another popping sound comes from the ground. quickly she pulls him out of the way again, swinging him back. '' Well this place certainly keeps us on our toes.''

Five huffs dismissively as he gently takes her hand, taking the lead once again. the walked rather slowly through the fire swamp; both doing their best to keep alert of dangers. in and of the swamp. its later now in the day, what makes up of the sun slanted down just a bit. perhaps it was near sunset, but the swamp was to thick to tell.
'' This will all soon be but a happy memory because Hargreaves's ship the "Revenge" is anchored at the far end of this place. And I, Hargreaves.'' He told her happily, we are now caught in a conversation.
'' But how is that possible, since he's been marauding twenty years and you only left me five years ago?'' Delores inquired, quite perplexed.
'' I myself am often surprised at life's little quirks.'' this got an eye roll out of her. There is again, the huge spurt of flame. Delores grumbles and simply picks up five as they walk along, moves him out of danger, puts him back down. goes right on talking without missing a beat.
'' gosh you have gotten strong-''

'' Five. You were saying?''

'' Right. Well you see, what I told you before about saying "please" was true. It intrigued The captain, as did my descriptions of your statuesque beauty.'' as five explains himself, he takes out his sword, slicing though some hideous vines. they seem to groan as they fall. but five's chatting drowned it out the whole time.
"Finally, Roberts decided something. He said, "All right, Boy, I've never had a valet. You can try it for tonight. I'll most likely kill you in the morning." Three years he said that. "Good night, boy. Good work. Sleep well. I'll most likely kill you in the morning." It was a fine time for me. I was learning to fence, to fight, anything anyone would teach me. Hargreaves and I eventually became friends. And then it happened.''

'' It happened?'' she guides him across ah rickety tree branch over some bubbling swamp water.
'' Well, Roberts had grown so tired, he wanted to retire. So he took me to his cabin and told me his secret. "I am not the Dread Pirate Hargreaves," he said. "My name is Jerome. I inherited this ship from the previous Dread Pirate Hargreaves, just as you will inherit it from me. The man I inherited it from was not the real Dread Pirate Hargreaves, either.'' Five continued.'' His name was Max. The real Hargreaves has been retired fifteen years and living like a king in Patagonia." Then he explained the name was the important thing for inspiring the necessary fear. You see, no one would surrender to the Dread Pirate Five.''

The two of them have by now crossed the pond.
'' So we sailed ashore, took on an entirely new crew and he stayed aboard for awhile as first mate, all the time calling me Hargreaves . Once the crew believed, he left the ship and I have been Hargreaves ever since. Except, now that we're together, I shall retire and hand the name over to someone else…perhaps that Spaniard Dieg—''

But before he could speak , the ground Delores steps in gives out into lightning sand. Powder rising out of the whole that consumed her. As she sinks five whirls around screaming in surprise. He hacks at a U-shaped vine with his blade, pulling form the trees end. He Clutched the other end of the vine, diving into the lightning sand and there is another cloud of white powder, but it settles quickly. Now nothing can be seen. Nothing at all. Just the lightning sand.

An odd panting sound is heard now, it very loud. Alerting a giant Rat from afar darts into view. The Rat is no more than eighty pounds of bone and power. It sniffs around a bit then, as quickly as it has come, it goes.Fives lungs long past the bursting point, explodes out; he has Delores across his shoulders and as he pulls to the edge of the lightning sand pit, using the vine —Sand cakes their faces. he can taste it on his tongue as he pulls them to safety.

Above them the rat watches as Delores helps rest again a fallen tree branch.the poor man was covered head to toe in sand, lungs burning. Delores cleans the lightning sand from five's face. As she does so, she hears a brief rustling in the trees, she hesitates, glancing around. The rat is on a much lore branch now, staring back at her. Five is oblivious, coughing out sand as she continues to work at him. But a familiar blanket of dread comes over her. it was an R.O.U.S., they were knowing for there size and razor sharp teeth. if it weren't for them—or the fire and lightning sand— the fire swamp would have been cleared out by now. they would be dead any minute now if they stayed like this…but Delores couldn't bring herself to move. Just as she did in the palace or in the eel infested waters. Death did not scare her, she'd accept death wholeheartedly a few days ago…but she wasn't alone in this swamp.

'' if we keep still like this— we'll never succeed here….we may as well die.'' She huffs solomly glancing up. Now there are two R.0.U.S.'s. The have climbed into a nearby tree, stare hungrily down. Five shakes his head, helping her up.

'' No.No we will not. we have already succeed, Delores.'' He assures her, he could tell something was off around them and with her. especially her. the light that she had in her eyes years ago as now gone. She was more hardened now. Speaking with such weight and sadness that no woman should be familiar with. as he put his arm around her as they walked, her legs shaked. From dread and unknown burns from the fire swamp.'' Listen to me. What are the three terrors of the Fire Swamp? One, the flame spurts. No problem, thanks to you. There's a popping sound preceding each, we can avoid that. Two, the Lightning Sand. But you were clever enough to discover what that looks like, so in the future we can avoid that too. we got this, Delores. as long as we stick together.I promise."

'' What about the R.O.U.S's?'' Delores countered, her mind on high alert. his words only eased her nerves only a little.

"Rodents of Unusual Size? I don't think they exist.'' fives tells her with great confidence, And as he says that, a R.0.U.S. comes flying at him from
a tree.
Delores screamed as five was pinned under the attacking R.0.U.S., trying to fend
it off. Can't. The thing's teeth sink deep into his arm. Five drives a fist into the beast's face, rolling it off. He reaches for his sword just a few feet away, but the
Rat is back atop him. It's a fierce battle, and just when he thought he couldn't possibly win—

''FIVE!'' Delores shouts getting the R.O.U.S.'s attention and flips the ugly rodent clear. Five scrambles for his sword. The R.0.U.S. stampedes on, keeping him as ts target. She reaching for the rodent, grabbing only a tail, wrestling with it. five drops his sword for something heavier to get its attention. grabbing a massive branch, and using it as a club. Beats the skull of the thing, doing pretty well; but the beast manages to snag his boots with its razor teeth, pulled to the ground.

Delores jumped onto its back, and the R.0.U.S. is all over her now, sinking it's needle- like teeth into Delores's shoulder. With death impending, a familiar popping sound starts up again. He tries one desperate move, rolls into the sound—a flame spurt shoots skyward! She pinned the R.O.U.S. under her, and the beast bursts into flame. It lets go and Delores rolls back onto her feet, grabbing five's sword and Furiously stabbed the R.0.U.S. till blood spluttered onto her. The R.0.U.S. collapses dead.

'' Here.'' Delores sighs, running a hand over her blood stained face and combed back her now blood streaked hair. she glances down at the dead beast, then to five. Her amber eyes bright under the dissipating flames. She walks over to him now, tossing the sword. She looked him over for any injures, she would not have him hurt in any sort of way. not after years of thinking he was dead. Five was relieved that the danger had passed of course, but that wasn't the reason his heart was racing. He felt that at any moment he could lose her. that another R.O.U.S would come out or a shoot a fire would whisk her away from his life again. That she'd be gone, berried in the hallow part of his heart, like he was to her for five long years. But she was the one protecting him now, saving him. The look of violence in her eyes was so unfamiliar until this point. For now, he realized, she was never going be that farm girl ever again. Not anymore. she was just hollow.