The plains looked even blander than it was after their last siege to Scarleticia. Pahn, however, was quick to decide the bright-colored flowers and garish combination of patterns he could do without. A second of hesitation, then he shook his head, and the random thoughts vanished. His mind going errand was something he couldn't afford right now, when he weren't even sure he could return for tonight's dinner. The newly recruited cook seemed competent, even if no one could ever compare to Gremio's stew...here he went again, off tangent...he couldn't possibly be THAT scared, right?

Ah. Who was he kidding. In front of him, armors polished and sword brandished, was none other than the man he used to swear allegiance to, a man he used to respect more than anyone. The keyword being 'used'. General Teo McDohl stepped forward, assuming a ready stance to await the first move.

He really had come a long way since that day.

Teo, most probably sensing his moment of weakness like an apt general he was, quirked a smirk.

"This does bring back memories, I surmise?"

Teo relaxed, a gesture Pahn interpreted as his ex-master's trust on him to be a man of honor. If he was any lesser soldier, Pahn would have utilized the opening to launch an attack. However, he made no move as he was Pahn of McDohl household.

"Indeed it is, General Teo."

Another time, another plains, same general and same young soldier. Only different circumstance.

"Many years ago, you swore loyalty to me in this battlefield. Today, we once again face each other as adversaries. Don't you find it ironic?"

With the air of grace he carried and the easiness of his tone, he might as well be asking what mischief Ted roped Tir into while he was gone.

"I do, General Teo. For that I would forever be glad. Under your protection it was I met someone I would be ready to serve with my life. Without you taking pity on my life that day, I would not be able to stand by Young Master's side right now."

It must be an odd sight to see for the others, for Teo laughed in mirth upon that sentence.

"I don't remember you being this eloquent. You, Tir, time sure flies."

Pahn closed his eyes. There was no use in prolonging it any longer. Teo knew, Teo understood. For him to initiate such useless banter before a fight, it was a sentiment unspoken and a whole world in itself.

The other man decided time was up as well, and once again he brought his sword to a proper posture. Smile was gone from his face. Pahn drew a deep breath. It really was gone. The look he sent, Pahn was no longer a family servant but an equal foe like others he had slain.

And in front of Pahn was no more a father figure and revered fighter than an obstacle to their goal overthrowing the kingdom.

"Enough talking. For us soldier, let our weapons engage to find the answer."

"Thank you, General Teo."

Thank you...

Fate...sure is cruel, isn't it?

And so the duel began.

/

Pahn wondered whether the other worlds the seer once said was true, and whether there was one in which the McDohl household was spared such tragedy.