Dilandau brought the thin glass to his lips, enjoying the warm feeling the alcohol produced as it ran down his throat. Normally, the captain wouldn't have been drinking so early in the day. Nighttime was a better hour for getting drunk, as all his daytime duties would require a clear head. But today was different. Today he had a reason to celebrate.
"You called, Dilandau-Sama?"
The albino's gaze shifted to the door from which Chesta had entered. The Dragon Slayer bowed low before him, awaiting orders.
"I'm going to visit the Dragon… Which cell did they put him in?" Dilandau asked. Chesta looked hesitant to answer.
"But sir, Folken has ordered that no one is to see the prisoner," he replied miserably, well aware of Dilandau's short temper. It was often worse when the young captain was drunk. Sure enough, a back-hand to the face landed Chesta hard on the floor.
"I didn't ask you about Folken, now did I? I asked where Van is being held, and I want an answer!" Dilandau growled. The Dragon Slayer brought a hand to his smarting cheek and stood up.
"Yes Dilandau-Sama. I will take you to the Dragon's cell."
"That's better. Good," the captain crooned, stepping past the injured boy. Dilandau's face was flushed red from wine, and his walk was less in step then usual. Chesta squirmed uncomfortably as he led him down the Vione's halls. The Slayers rarely saw their captain drunk, and it was both frightening and exciting to think about what he might be like. Chesta made a mental note not to wake Dilandau early next morning.
They arrived shortly at the holding area, making their way past various Zaibach personnel. Chesta stopped at a cell that contained a young blue-haired boy, settled on the prison bench against the wall.
"Here," he said, nodding to Dilandau. The captain already had his gloved fingers wrapped around the bars. A strange hunger flashed in his crimson eyes, the same expression he wore whenever Van and Escaflowne came to the battlefield. Except this time around, the mouse was in the trap.
"Leave Chesta," he snapped, unable to shift his gaze from Van's prone body. The Dragon Slayer turned to go as ordered, but not before he caught a glance of a deck of cards in Dilandau's right hand. That was extremely puzzling. Also strange was the fact that the captain had brought the wine bottle along as well. Chesta was about inquire about the captain's intentions, but thought better of it. One slap was enough for the day. Besides, it was best to leave Dilandau alone when it came to matters involving Van.
It was likely today's drills would be postponed. Today was definitely a day for celebration.