(Chapter Two) The Best Laid Plans

It took a minute for Gray's eyes to adjust to the bright sunlight. The loud banter of voices filled the bustling street market. People dashed to and fro going about their day as if they didn't have a care in the world. Gray gritted his teeth for a moment before biting his lip to calm himself down. 'Right, I must keep my emotions in check.' He thought to himself as his feet began to move him along the street.

Many vendors sat along side the street, shouting at the people passing through and trying to demonstrate that their goods were superior. Gray ignored the repeated attempts to grab his attention. Noting the double crossed swords on his cloak, many vendors left him alone after seeing his crest. It was the crest of the King's Royal Elite Forces, Mystic Shadow. Only nine warriors were allowed to belong to Mystic Shadow at any one time.

Gray showed such a knack for combat that the village chief, Gray's guardian and swordmaster, sent a letter of recommendation to his old student in the capital. Jin, eager to take on a disciple his master recommended, snatched Gray up without any hesitation. Jin was not disappointed in the least upon witnessing Gray's prowess with a lance and his uncanny ability to harness wind magic. Gray went through countless years of training, trials, and near death combat. He was the youngest person ever accepted into Mystic Shadow, a decision that received mixed reviews.

"Master, we are getting close," Sylphia spoke softly, pulling him from his thoughts. The training field was off limits to regular citizens. It was enormous and packed with deadly animals and traps. Death wasn't uncommon here. Jin had just finished slaying a small three-headed creature when Gray arrived to meet him.

"Master? How did things proceed?" Gray asked, coming to a stop in front of his Master. Jin put his greatsword into the ground and turned to face Gray, his face showing a hint of satisfaction.

"It went smoothly, just like you predicted. I've sent out false targets with a scout watching each site. We will soon know who betrayed King Durgaz," Jin bellowed and let out a hearty laughter once more. "It will be like shooting at fish in a barrel."

"Yes," Gray said, sadness apparent in his voice. Sylphia frowned at the tone in his voice. She flew up to his head and sat down on her knees. She bent forward and was staring at Gray upside down. Reaching out her tiny hand, Sylphia flicked Gray's nose gently. "Ow. Why did you do that?" He asked inquisitivly and rubbed his nose. Her flick stung a little bit for someone so little.

Sylphia puffed up her cheeks and gave Gray her best pouty face. "You were getting sad again, stupid Master," She stuck her tongue out and folded her arms across her chest. Gray smiled slightly and let out a soft laugh. Jin smiled at the sight before him and glanced around the fields. They were still alone for now.

Gray reached up and grabbed her in both hands. He cupped her in his hands gently and kissed her cheek softly. "Thank you, Sylphia. You always manage to cheer me up," He whispered softly and looked up towards Jin. "Master, what happens now? Do I make my existence known? What I'm not fit to lead this kingdom?" He asked after some time thinking over his words.

"Only you can decide, Gray. Your path is your own. I can not walk it for you, nor can I control the path you choose. However, I can support you along the way. If you choose to lead, I will help. If you choose to stay unknown, I will support you. But the choice is yours in the end," He closed his eyes as he spoke and lectured Gray like a father figure. His Master did this all the time and never gave a straight answer. Gray let out a sigh and nodded his head, even if he didn't understand.

"You are wise as always, Master. Now, we should head back and see if anyone has taken the bait yet," Gray suggested and turned on his heels. Master and student began making their way to Castle Undine. Jin followed after his young student and remained quiet behind him.

Castle Undine was a massive fortress, built using the most sophisticated architecture and materials available to date. It was the most modern castle built in the last fifty years. Four towers, half the size of the Castle, were placed at each corner wall and installed with catapults and archer points. Castle Undine had never been breached in the fifteen years since its construction. Two solid oak doors, decorated in emeralds with gold trim, swung open loudly.

"Entering now, Lieutenant Gray and Master Jin, seeking an audience with King Durgaz," Jin bellowed loudly but respectfully as they both entered into the foyer. They approached Durgaz and both took a knee in front of him.

Durgaz, once one of Astoria's greatest warriors, was now facing the end of his life. His body had become broken and weary, but that didn't extinguish his immense fighting spirit. Durgaz looked at Jin and then turned his gaze to Gray. It had been so long since he had last seen his son. Gray had learned about his origins long ago and he had yet to forgive Durgaz for abandoning him.

If Gray could have it his way, Durgaz knew he would forsake his name. 'What I did to you was not right. I won't ask for your forgiveness, my son.' Durgaz thought to himself and lifted a wrinkled and shaky hand to his face, stroking his massive silver beard.

"Jin, it is good to see you well, my friend," Durgaz spoke in a hoarse voice and looked to Gray. "And you as well, Lieutenant," Durgaz acknowledged Gray with a nod of his head. He was getting old, and with age, came regret for his actions. He could not undo his mistakes, but he would try and atone for his sins.

"Your words are kind, King Durgaz," Gray replied politely, but behind his lips, he was grinding his teeth together. It took all his willpower to remain in control of his emotions. "King Durgaz, may we speak in private. I have much to share," Gray asked politely to be left alone with Durgaz. Nodding his head, Durgaz waved his hand ordering everyone to leave.

Once the doors were shut, Jin and Gray both rose to their feet. "We have set up a trap to ascertain who betrayed you and ended the life of Lord Argo. I will find the traitor and I will avenge my brothers death," Gray told Durgaz his intentions and he wouldn't take no for an answer.

Durgaz sighed heavily, a soft sniffle could be heard in the silence. "I'm sorry. Argo is dead because of me. I didn't think my own people would betray me. Gray, it is time for you to come forward as my son. You are the rightful -" Gray sighed and shook his head slowly.

"Is that an apology? You expect me to forgive you because you want me back? I'm not Argo, Durgaz. I can never take his place. You know that better than anyone," Gray shouted angrily. "You think 'sorry' makes up for my life on the streets? For stealing to eat just to live even if nobody wanted you? You don't get to say sorry," Gray continued as the anger in him poured forth uncontrollably.

"Master..." Sylphia spoke to him but her words didn't reach Gray.

"Do you know how it feels to have nobody waiting for you? To think that you don't matter to anyone? The village chief was the only man to ever treat me like a human," Gray shouted some more, his long Gray hair covering his face. His body started shaking and his breathing became ragged.

"Gray, that's enough," Jin tried to sooth his student and placed his hand on Gray's shoulder.

"Jin, please. Let him speak. I put him through this life. He has every right to be angry with me," Durgaz spoke to Jin and he nodded. "I won't ask to be forgiven. But I want to make amends. Just tell me what you want me to say," Durgaz asked and leaned forward.

"Actions speak louder than words, Durgaz. I aim to find Argo's killer and end his miserable, wretched life. If I survive, you may get your chance to make amends. Pray you live that long," Gray spoke coldly and turned around before storming out of the keep.

"Jin, look after him. He may hate me, but he is my son. My blood. I only want what's best for him. I hope he learns that one day," Durgaz sighed softly and dismissed Jin. The doors opened and King Durgaz continued with his lordly duties.