So I'm kind of spoiling it by talking about it now but the build up to Shela being made leader I think was easy enough to see. When I wrote the original timeline, it was intended for Charles to actually be made leader, however as I was writing well, things just changed. It didn't make sense at all for Roy to put Charles in that place. He's stubborn but not stupid, and he has to be open to critism of some kind or his character wouldn't work! So Shela was made the group leader early, which I like a lot better.

Chapter 01
Chapter 02
Chapter 03
Chapter 04
Chapter 05
Chapter 06
Chapter 07
Chapter 08
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 17
Chapter 18
Chapter 19
Chapter 20

---

Charles: It feels so weird being home for lunch for once.

Shela: (chuckles) Yeah it’s kind of nice. Desmond and Aero might join us.

Charles: Good thing we’re in the habit of making way too much.

Shela: Some of mom’s old habits never die I guess.

(Roy bursts in through the door)

Roy: We have a problem.

Shela: What’s going on? Did someone get injured?

Roy: (holds out a letter) This is a distress call from one of the groups I reached out to. They’re asking for us to send whatever fighters we can, the soldiers are closing in on them.

Charles: And I take it they have one of the crystals?

Roy: Yes. They managed to take it from its resting location before the soldiers could find it, but they were tracked.

Shela: It sure seems like they’ve found some secret to finding them.

Roy: I’m inclined to agree but it’s a problem we can’t focus on right now. We need to put together a group to send out.

Shela: Can we even spare the people?

Roy: No, but things are getting too risky. This would be the fourth crystal that we know of being stolen. They’re moving too fast.

(knock on the door)

Roy: Were you expecting company?

Charles: Oh, yeah. Desmond and Aero were going to join us for lunch…

Roy: Let them in. They can hear this too.

Shela: (looks mildly shocked but hurries to let them in)

Desmond: Wow what did we walk into? You could cut the tension in here with a knife.

Roy: Just close the door and sit please.

(Aero shuts the door and they all sit down. Charles finishes placing the last of the plates, though not looking too hungry anymore)

Roy: We received a distress call and I’m going to need to send out a group to aid them. Things are getting too dire not too.

Aero: Well everyone has been pretty well trained up lately so regardless of who stays and who goes, we should be okay here.

Roy: I appreciate that. That’s not what has me so nervous.

Shela: Just spit it out dad, you’ve been shaking since you walked in the door.

Roy: I think I should go.

Desmond: What?! Have you gone senile?

Roy: Desmond, we both know the only other capable person to lead a successful battle here is you, and you’re in no shape to do that.

Desmond: (growls) That doesn’t make it a better solution!

Roy: You told me to have faith in my kids so I am! The past few months have been some of our best thanks to their work. I don’t want to leave this all up to them, trust me. But it’s our best option.

(The group is silent for a moment)

Shela: I agree.

Charles and Desmond: What?!

Shela: Even the others that came from Fox Village and they’re strong fighters, none of them have leadership skills. None of the others here would be able to do it either. Unfortunately that training just never came up, not in the time we had.

Shela: It’s fucked, but it’s our only option if we want to be able to send the group any help.

Charles: S-So what I’m supposed to step into leadership position just like that?

Roy: Unfortunately yes.

Charles: Why not just make Shela the leader! She’s more capable than I am, I can just remain second in command. She basically already knows what the hell to do.

Shela: So do you idiot, and it’s not like I won’t be right by your side to help.

Roy: She’s too young anyway. I’m debating taking a lot of the older members who will resist but I don’t want an uproar while I’m gone either. If you’re the face of things, people will be more comfortable.

Charles: Well fuck, can she at least be the second in command?

Roy: I already assumed that’s what you’d be doing.

Charles: Good. Now, I need some space. (storms out, having not touched his food)

Roy: (sighs) I should have expected that.

Aero: Pardon me, but I don’t see why you couldn’t just make Shela leader and keep Charles where he’s at.

Desmond: Because he’s still stuck in the past. You elected her as project manager, I don’t see why you can’t bypass things.

Shela: They’re kind of right. You’re putting a lot on Charles, he’s…

Roy: I know, I know. I don’t know, maybe.

Desmond: I think you need to take the rest of the day, maybe sleep on it, and then decide fully what the plan here is. I understand they need help urgently, but I’m also pretty sure they know our situation too.

Roy: I…Okay no, you’re right.

Shela: Should I go after Charles?

Roy: No, let him be for now. If you can, let him know that we’ll have a meeting later tonight.

Aero: I’ll go. No offense, but I think it might be best for him if it’s someone not in the family that talks to him right now.

Shela: Good call honestly. Thank you Aero.

Aero: (nods. He gets up, grabbing one last piece off his plate to go and heads out)

(tension is high in the room, Roy with his head in his hands and Desmond looking annoyed)

Shela: I’ll head out too. I need to talk with Doctor Nick about some to-go supplies for the group. (follows out shortly after Aero)

Desmond: That kinda shit is why you need to let go of old rules and just make her leader. She looked at what needs to be done and is taking charge.

Roy: I know okay! It’s not just the old rules, this is just so much to put on her.

Desmond: It’s just as much to put on Charles. I understand he’s a man of the house and he’s older, but what you’re doing doesn’t benefit either of them. We’ve been through this before, I thought you got it through your head.

(Roy is silent for a while before he sighs, standing up)

Roy: Do you think they’d fight Shela on anything? Any of them, no matter who I took with me into battle?

Desmond: No, I really don’t. Even the old timers have respect for her, more than they do for Charles actually.

Roy: Okay. I’m going to go take a walk, think some things over.

Desmond: Do you want me at the meeting later?

Roy: If you don’t mind. Your input is basically what has gotten us this far and I want it at least this one last time.

Desmond: Okay, I’ll be there. (stands up and leaves. Roy follows him out but heads in a different direction)

(scene fades to Aero, hunting around for Charles. He checks Celia’s farm, the training ground, and even the clinic. Eventually he finds him on the edge of the forest, with Anthony. The two of them sitting on a fallen tree)

Charles: I just, I don’t want to do this. I don’t even enjoy being second in command but I was the only person my father would consider at the time.

Charles: I know it’s selfish and it won’t happen for a while, but I just want a simple life. I knew training was always going to be a part of my life but not all this.

Anthony: That’s rough and really not fair to you. I know you can’t be expected to do nothing but, you wouldn’t.

Charles: No. I wish I could just I dunno, be like the rest of you. I know everyone has their job that they contribute to the place but I’d much rather just be a helping hand on Celia’s farm than all this.

Anthony: Do you think he’ll seriously take off?

Charles: He sounded really serious and Shela agreed so I doubt there’s any stopping him.

(Aero finally decides he’s heard enough and makes his steps loud as he walks up to them)

Aero: Hey, sorry to interrupt.

Charles: Oh, Aero hey. (wiping tears off his face)

Aero: I wanted to get the word to you that there will be a meeting tonight.

Charles: Of course…

Aero: I can’t say for sure but…I think your father is at least considering leaving you where you’re at now. I know that doesn’t make it okay, Roy was still being stubborn, but maybe that’ll make things easier.

Charles: Oh…

Anthony: That would be good if he goes through with the second plan. He has seemed more opening to listening to things since you got promoted.

Charles: I hope so. I’m sure he won’t but he’s been unpredictable.

Aero: I think the job is wearing on him more than he lets on. It doesn’t excuse it though, he knows he should be more put together.

Charles: Maybe that’s another reason he wants to take charge of the backup group, he needs something smaller scale. A break.

Aero: Could be. Really I think that’s just about him feeling like he needs to handle it all.

Aero: Again, it doesn’t excuse it. I really haven’t seen you as happy as you used to be before the promotion and that’s on him. But I can sort of see what his perspective is.

Charles: You’re more perceptive than I realized.

Aero: It’s mostly thanks to Shela. We had nothing else to do but talk when we were helping Doctor Nick out, she made a lot of observations and I slowly picked up on them too.

Charles: That sounds like something she’d do.

Aero: Anyway, I’ll leave you two be. I just wanted to tell you the news, I figured it might be better to hear it from someone not in the family.

Charles: (laughs) It kind of does, thanks.

(Aero waves and leaves)

Charles: I guess I should head back into the village, check in on things.

Anthony: Oh, alright…

Charles: You can come along, I’m not pushing you away. I just need to do something productive to keep myself from over thinking.

Anthony: Heh, alright. Let’s go then, lead the way.

(The two head off into the village and it fades to Shela)

Shela: Okay so you said this yellow one is the one they’ll want to bring?

Nick: Yes, it can be made into a poultice and applied to wounds.

Shela: Sure, let me write that down. If we don’t provide clear instructions, I’m sure they’ll forget.

Nick: (chuckles) Probably true. I’ll write them down, you just worry about getting everything packed away.

Shela: Thanks. Sorry that we’re going to be raiding so much of the supplies.

Nick: You brought back a lot that last time, and with your efforts we’ve at least been able to start growing a few things. So really, we should be okay.

Shela: Well I’m glad. I just wish it was a faster process.

Nick: It’ll get easier as time goes on. The more we grow with what seeds we had, the more seems we can gather. The more we can produce at a time.

Shela: True. I guess it’s just so easy to get trapped in what’s happening right now.

Nick: Given what’s going on, that makes sense.

Shela: It’s so stressful. I don’t even know what I’m packing for here and that’s why I’m just trying to cover every base possible. I’m sure my dad will double check things but I just needed to do something productive.

(Shela finishes packing a third bag)

Shela: That should do it. Whenever you’ve got the notes, I should be done here.

Nick: Here you are (hands her the notes) I wrote two copies just in case. I know how disorganized things can get.

Shela: Thank you again, you’ve been a lot of help. And good conversation.

Nick: Of course.

(Shela packs the notes in the bags before leaving. She makes her way toward the cave)

Shela: Probably a little early but what else can I really do. (sighs before heading inside)

(The cave is empty so Shela takes the time to light the torches around the room. As she’s doing that, Roy steps in)

Roy: Oh, you’re early.

Shela: I finished up at the clinic and didn’t have much idea of what else to do so, here I am.

Roy: Have you seen Charles at all?

Shela: No but I’m pretty sure Aero wouldn’t have let the rest of the day go by without finding him.

Roy: Okay, I hope you’re right.

(As if on queue, Charles and Desmond both show up)

Desmond: Gang’s all here I see.

Roy: Yes well since we’re all here, we can start. (pulls out notes) I’ve made some choices, as difficult as they have been.

Roy: Shela, I want you to lead the group. Charles, you can stay as second in command. It’s not ideal in my mind but it’s pretty clear that any other choice will make everyone else unhappy. My comfort can’t top the comfort and happiness of the rest of the camp.

Charles: Wait, really?

Roy: Yes. I know you’d prefer to be on the sidelines, I know your skills are more suited to that. It’s not easy for me to admit that but if it means the group will function better as a result then I need to.

Shela: (in shock, speechless)

Desmond: Well I think you’ve made the correct choice.

Roy: Shela?

Shela: I uh…sorry. Thank you dad, genuinely.

Roy: Don’t thank me just yet, I’m handing off a lot onto you.

Shela: I get that, I don’t want to say I’m fully prepared but enough so that I know I can do this.

Roy: Good. We’ll announce it tomorrow morning, I’d like to have the rescue team heading out by noon.

Shela: Medical supplies need your review but they should be good to go.

Charles: Food packs are also ready to go, me and Anthony knocked that out yesterday.

Roy: Thank you both. This is why I know I can leave this place in your hands.

Desmond: Have you decided who all is joining you?

Roy: Yes but input is welcome. I’m taking Eris and Christophe, they’ll be most likely to gripe. They’ve also had years of training to back us. Nathaniel has some experience with wound treatment and given basic instructions, he’d be able to learn more. The last two are the ones I’m struggling on, there where I’d like the most input.

Roy: First I have Dawson and Steve who work well together. They’re older too so I don’t feel as bad sending them out. However Mark and Ethan are better fighters. They-

Shela: Take Dawson and Steve.

Roy: You didn’t hear my other option but noted, we’ll keep Mark and Ethan here.

Shela: Sorry they’re just, I dunno. Comic relief yeah but we need that here to brighten spirits.

Roy: I understand, trust me they weren’t who I’d want to pick ideally. My last option is blank and blank, again they’re younger but more on par with Mark and Ethan’s skills. They’re also just faster, I feel like they’d survive a lot better. But again, the age. I’m not comfortable sending a younger crowd out on what might be a suicide mission.

Charles: Well why not let them decide? Like, we can pull the four of them aside and explain the risks and let them decide among the group. It may mean we get a duo that doesn’t work as well together but I don’t think it would be so much that it would hinder the group.

Desmond: That’s not a bad idea.

Roy: I agree, we can do that. It’s getting late but maybe tomorrow after the ceremony. We could leave a little later.

Charles: Personally, I think you should either wait another night or go in the evening. Give people a chance to say their goodbyes if things are so dangerous.

Roy: That’s true…

Shela: It also gives you additional time for checking supplies over. I know this is urgent but rushing it will mean failure for sure.

Roy: Okay, I’ll decide for sure tomorrow, depending on how the group feels. But you’re both right.

Desmond; Meeting over then? Or at least, may I leave?

Roy: Yeah you’re not looking too good. Charles will you walk him home?

Charles: Sure thing.(stands up)

Charles: Come on Uncle Des

(Desmond grumbles but stands up and let’s Charles half carry him out. Shela starts to stand up)

Roy: Wait I wanted to speak with you for a bit before we head in.

Shela: Okay?

Roy: I just…I didn’t want to throw this on you. I’m sorry.

Shela: Dad this is basically what I’ve been asking you for and showing you I could do. I don’t see why you’re sorry.

Roy: I know that you’re capable of doing this but it really is a lot to handle. You’re so young, I didn’t want to put that on you.

Shela: Dad I’m-

Roy: No, Shela look. Charles is 26 years old, past his full brain development age. He’s still young but you’re 21 There’s a reason why I didn’t want to put this on you, it’s just a lot.

Shela: I get that. I will prove you made the right choice though. And I’m not going to let the stress eat at me. We still have Desmond here for help and as grim it as this is to say, you taking five people out of here does reduce our numbers. It’s less people to feed, less to manage overall.

Roy: That’s true. But it’s still more than I think you fully realize. I won’t be the one writing letters anymore after all, you’ll need to do that. You’re capable I know but just…I worry.

Shela: I know dad, that’s obvious. It’ll be okay. I’ll be fine.

Roy: Okay, I will trust you with that. Still, I have a list for you of tasks I typically handle that you might not have thought of or noticed. We’ll go over them.

Shela: Sure.

(The two are seen going over the list for a few panels before fading to them walking home)

Charles: There you two are, was beginning to think I’d have to eat all this food myself.

Shela: Oh hell no, you wouldn’t dare!

Roy: (chuckles) Sorry, we had things to go over before tomorrow.

Charles: I figured as much. I knew I’d be welcomed back but I’m starving. (puts plates on the table) Still, I wanted to enjoy this meal together. I know it’ll be our last for a while.

(Roy smiles sadly as he sits down. They drift into comfortable conversation around the table before heading off to bed)

(The next morning, the three of them are scrambling around the house)

Charles: Okay I’m ready, you want me to start gathering people?

Roy: Yes please, I need to re-read my speech one last time.

Shela: Dad I’ve seen you read it like ten times, it’s fine.

Roy: One more time isn’t going to hurt either.

Shela: (sighs) I’m going to get Desmond and head over.

Roy: Okay.

(Shela heads out the door and sighs)

Shela: I wish he’d realize his panic makes me panic…

(Shela walks down to Desmond’s and knocks on the door)

Desmond: (answers) Hey kiddo, what’s up?

Shela: I figured I’d walk you to the stage.

Desmond: I know I was looking rough last night but I’ll be fine on my own you know.

Shela: I know but…

Desmond: (dramatically sighs but smiles) You wanted a pep talk.

Shela: A little yeah. I get scared too you know.

Desmond: I knew you did. But yeah come on, let’s go. (closes door to his house)

Desmond: So what’s on your mind?

Shela: I’m just nervous that I’m not ready for this?

Desmond: Isn’t it what you wanted though?

Shela: Well kind of. But I mean really, I wanted Charles’ spot. I wanted to be working along side dad. Now I’ve jumped that step to full on leader and it’s terrifying.

Desmond: You sounded sure of yourself last night though.

Shela: It was an act okay! All of my brave front is an act! I have nightmares almost on a nightly basis, I’m constantly just worried about everything. I check in with people so much not just because it’s what I should do, it’s because I’m afraid and I want to make sure things are right.

Desmond: And that’s how I know you’ll do well.

Shela: What?!

Desmond: I’m not saying the nightmares are a good thing, that you should probably talk to someone about. Not me, but someone. However that bit of fear is important, you need that to keep you on track sometimes.

Shela: I guess that’s true.

Desmond: I mean, don’t let it eat you up. Your dad does that and it’s been his biggest issue. But you tend to be more level headed with it. If it’s a serious issue, you take the time to think about it, not just rush to fix it now because it’s making your insides turn. I’ve seen how you are.

Shela: You’re right. I’ll try not to let it eat me. Normally I’m better about it but today is…

Desmond: A lot. I know you’ve never even been a fan of the gatherings.

Shela: I’m not. And now I gotta organize them! I hate that so much!

Desmond: (laughs) I mean, I think as long as you’re just giving the speech, you can let Charles handle the rest. He’s great at gathering the crowd after all.

(walking up to the stage, people already gathered around)

Shela: (laughs) Can’t argue with that.

Charles: Hey there you are, is dad ready yet?

Shela: He was reading the script over “one more time”. That means like at least 5 more times. He’ll be here shortly I think.

Charles: (sighs) That figures. I’ll go make sure everyone’s here before he makes it over.

(walks off and checks on the crowd)

Desmond: I’m going to go stand with the rest of the group, feels weird being up here after retiring. I’d like to just feel normal.

Shela: I get it. Being able to look down at you will make me less nervous anyway.

Desmond: (smiles before wandering off to join the group)

(Roy walks up, speech still in hand)

Roy: Sorry, I know I should have been here a few minutes sooner.

Shela: It’s fine, let’s just get started.

Roy: (nods and walks up to the front) May I have your attention?

(group shushses as he speaks, looking up at him)

Roy: A lot has gone on in the past 24 hours, many talks and difficult decisions had to be made. And it all started with a letter I got from one of the other freedom fighter groups we work with. The black magic forces wish to posess one of their powerful world ruling items known as the Caster Crystal.

Roy: They asked for help and as much as I do not wish to send out a group, it is dire. With three known crystals being stolen now, it would be dangerous to allow them half. Myself and others decided that it would be better to send out a group to aid them.

Roy: This group shockingly, will be lead by me. It wasn’t a choice I took lightly but in order to lead a group out and safely return, I feel it is our best option. I’d like to request that Eris, Christophe, and Nathaniel, I’d like to request to come with me. The other two slots would be best filled by either Dawson, Steve, blank, or blank. I’ll let you four decide which two shall go, we’ll speak after the meeting.

(Roy pauses to look out into the group)

Eris: I will proudly follow you into battle sir.

Christophe: I’ve got no problems joining.

Nathaniel: I’m honored sir.

Roy: Thank you all.

Roy: I’m sure that poses the question to the rest of you of who will take leadership. That was also a difficult decision, one that has not been in any way made lightly. Charles, who is my second in command, will stay at his position.

(shocked gasps)

Roy: This was both my choice and his request. I’ve agreed with it as there is someone else who without a doubt, makes more sense to choose as leader. It’s a shocking choice but I’d like to elect my daughter, Shela, as the group’s new leader.

(much of the group gasps, Shela’s friends start to cheer loudly and others join them)

Shela: (steps forward) I’m glad to hear at least some approval. I know the choice comes as a shock for most, most of all for me. This group means everything to me, it’s been ingrained into my life for years now. Not just being here but helping look after everyone. I understand that some things about myself may seem like a set back, and I’m bound to stumble at times, but I will not let anyone down. That is my promise.

Shela: Thank you to my father for considering me, truly. I’ve always wanted to do more for the group and now, I will do everything for it. I’m proud of that.

(group beings to cheer once again, this time louder)

Group: SHELA! SHELA! SHELA!

Shela: (blushing) Thank you all. I’ll leave the wrap up to you Roy.

Roy: Thank you. I’m glad the news has been received well as this as been a lot for us all. The rest of everyone’s day may be spend on what they wish, as we must prepare for the journey. Those who have been asked, understand this mission is dangerous. Anything you have to tell to anyone should be done now. I don’t intend on letting anyone die with me, but there is no promise I can make.

Roy: As for the other four of you, please stay behind for a moment. Everyone else, you are dismissed.

(The group slowly heads out while the four called gather up on the stage. Roy is seen talking with them, discussing dangers of the mission. Shela and Charles wander away from the stage, Shela looking more green that usual)

Shela: I think I’m gonna throw up.

Charles: But it went well! People are happy! Hell, I’m happy!

Shela: My system can’t handle that much positive attention so please shut up.

Charles: (laughs)

Shela: You laugh but seriously I feel sick.

Charles: Just breathe okay?

(Charles rubs her back while she slowly breathes and fades to normal colour)

Charles: It’s weird seeing you stressed, not gonna lie.

Shela: I hate it, it’s fucking stupid.

Charles: (snortS) You do have emotions you know, that’s okay.

Shela: Ugh. I don’t like showing emotions like that, you know that.

Charles: I know but like, it’s okay. Today is a stressful fuckin’ day.

Shela: I know just…I think what’s really getting me is it’s not just me taking over for dad while he’s on the sidelines. He’s gone. The pressures, I can handle. But dad’s always been here…

Charles: I know…I’m worried too.

(Charles rests a hand on her shoulder and their quiet for a moment)

Shela: We should go make a feast or something. I dunno. One final big meal with dad.

Charles: Hey yeah, that would be fun. I can go get some stuff from the market.

Shela: Sure, I’ll invite a few people.

(Before they know it the small event turns into a big one. Everyone from the group getting involved.)

Roy: (walking up, laughing) I didn’t know you two planned a sent off feast.

Shela: We didn’t, not exactly.

Charles: This was supposed to be small but…then more and more people wanted to be involved and we couldn’t say no.

Roy: I think it’s a great idea.

Shela: Did the four ever make a choice?

Roy: Yes. Dawson and Steve have insisted on going, I’m glad for it. It’s who I really wanted to pick. I just…I don’t know how this will all go.

Charles: We know. But mom always told us to stay positive.

Roy: That’s true.

Shela: (nudges Roy) Go enjoy the feast, it’ll help boost the positivity.

Roy: (laughs) Okay, let’s go. I see some pretty tasty looking fish over there…

(The three head for the food tables and everyone is talking, enjoying food)

(Things fade to evening and the group gathers together)

Roy: I wanted to let everyone know that Dawson and Steven have decided to go with us on the journey. We will leave in the morning so please enjoy the time with everyone that you have before we leave. I can’t stress enough that we’re heading into unknown, I don’t know what the future holds for the group. For now, enjoy tonight. Thank you.

(Group disperses as Roy heads back to Shela and Charles)

Charles: What made you choose the morning?

Roy: Family time is important. I figured we could spend some time together.

(They head into the house, staying up late into the night having conversation. Fades from night to morning, with the group gearing up to leave)

Charles: Write to us often, I expect updates.

Roy: (laughs) Of course.

Shela: Make sure to keep track of those papers packed with the medical supplies, they’re really important. Nick made you two copies but I expect to see both of them when you get back.

Roy: (laughs harder) Yes okay. We’ve really gotta go now.

(Shela and Charles look sad and give Roy one last goodbye hug. The group gathers together and heads out. Shela and Charles say to watch them walking away for a distance)

CHAPTER END