Chapter 3
Sylvana went over the notes she'd written about the vision the Powers had sent her adding any more as was needed. She let the memory play over in her mind again.
'The converged realities will fragment, infinity will shatter and Gaea will be destroyed…'
"Dust to dust," she murmured and closed the book she kept her notes in. She locked it and then stowed the key away and replaced the book on the shelf. She hadn't been able to get the vision out of her head since the day it had been revealed to her. It just kept replaying in her head over and over. She'd even dreamed it once or twice and it had been more detailed then ever. She didn't know why it should be up to a Laicar to solve a disaster the humans were bringing upon themselves. The Laicar could simply escape to a new realm as they had when the humans of earth had seen fit to chase them away for fear of their great power. Since then, the Laicar had always been hesitant to get involved in human affairs. If there was one-thing humans did best, it was to get themselves in over their heads and then have no way to bail out the boat before it sank, so to speak. This time, however, it was different. It was only one human who sought this destruction. The others involved were merely incidental. They were the servants and lackeys of this man. In truth they were only following orders and thus were more deserving of compassion in the eyes of the Powers. Also, there was the fact that there were others who saw the flaws in Dornkirk's ideals, even if they didn't realize what the consequences would be if they failed. There were still humans deserving of mercy, thus were the Powers That Be, be they gods or other, willing to be merciful. Sylvana sighed, but why should she be the one to right these wrongs? She knew the answer…It was because of who she was…who her father was, and where she was. She was her father's daughter, thus did she have the attention of the Powers already; child of Falcon and Phoenix; Air and Flame…Healer, enchantress and prisoner of Lord Dilandau Albatou. She was conveniently on a Zaibach floating fortress. She had some amount of influence here, even if none of the soldiers realized it, but she couldn't help but wonder if there was something else here the Powers wished for her to take notice of…or someone. Her guide was remaining stubbornly silent about such a thing and as for Serene, if she knew anything, she too had nothing to say at the time. Sylvana felt the first symptoms of a headache coming on…stress. Too many questions, too many concerns…and far too many injured soldiers to take care of. Sylvana resisted the urge to fling the first thing that came into her hand across the room and collapsed onto her bed with a groan. The Powers were punishing her; the gods were punishing her; someone was punishing her, that had to be it!
*******
Dilandau puzzled over his strange dream for the third time since he'd had it. What exactly did it mean…and who was that girl? He knew her…he was sure he knew her, but how? From where? He couldn't remember ever meeting her before…but then, there tended to be a lot of things about his life he didn't remember to his utmost frustration. He knew he should be concerning himself more with that Laicar. How was he supposed to get her to follow his commands when she openly defied him the way she did? It drove him insane…well more so than he already was anyway. It didn't matter, all people had their weaknesses, and once he found hers, he'd break her and mould her to his will easily. He contemplated the child a moment. That little brat could easily be Sylvana's weakness, but he was reminded of the words of that strange cat-woman. Dared he threaten the tiny Laicar? Dared he risk his life and the rest of Zaibach on a whim to control a woman who could possibly be controlled some other way? No, he didn't, for now little Serene would remain safe…for now.
*******
Sylvana gazed out at the vast azure sky; It was -- so beautiful. Gods, how she ached to be out there soaring on the wind like she used to for hours on end to clear her head when she was back, safe in the vale. She closed her eyes and felt the breeze in her hair and on her face. What she wouldn't give to feel the wind against her wings, the ground, seemingly along with her problems, far away as the air currents carried her which ever way they pleased. She sighed and let her imagination carry her away.
****
Viole entered Sylvana's quarters without knocking. It was one of those days when one of the representatives of her clans would come, if only to remind her that they hadn't forgotten her. At first he didn't see her as he cast his glance about, but then his eyes alighted on her where she stood on her balcony, a slight breeze blowing through her hair and causing her long viridian skirt to billow slightly about her legs. Hesitantly he approached her.
"Sylvana, you're supposed to be meeting with one of your clan members…" he stated matter-of-factly, and then curiously, "What are you doing?"
"Mmm?…feeling the wind," she murmured as he came to stand beside her, "You have no idea what it feels like to be a bird in a cage, do you?" She opened her pale, silvery eyes and looked at him. What kind of statement was that?
"You're not a bird," he protested, somewhat confused. Sylvana let out a low chuckle.
"What, they didn't tell you? Fauquon means falcon child…and I am a bird when I choose to become one…" What? Did this mean that the rumours were true? Could she really change her form? Viole shook his head as if to clear it of such ludicrous thoughts.
"Let's go," he said, a little more sharply than he'd intended and immediately regretted it as he saw Sylvana's well constructed barriers close firmly shut.
"Very well then," she muttered and pushed herself away from the balcony railing and headed toward the door.
****
Sylvana couldn't help but wonder who'd come to visit her this time… It would probably be Ice-Moon. She was the one who came most often. No doubt checking to make sure that her charge was still safe and well…Though why she suspected that her guide wouldn't tell her if Sylvana were otherwise was beyond her. Sylvana entered the room and halted mid-step. Could it really be?
"Adriel!" she cried running to him and throwing herself into his arms, "I can't believe it. It seems like it's been years, no decades -- no longer, lifetimes since I've seen you." She heard Adriel laugh in his warm tenor voice.
"You didn't think I'd come and visit you?" He let a look of mock indignation play across his beautiful face, "now really Sylve, you know me so much better than that."
"Yes, well," Sylvana shrugged fluidly, "it's hard not to despair in this place. I hate this place…You have no idea how many times I've longed to accidentally (on purpose) knock over a candle onto my books…" Adriel circled her shoulders with a graceful, yet muscular arm.
"You wouldn't do that; you love your books far too much…"
"Just the same, it would be a worth while sacrifice." She let out an explosive sigh and pressed her hands against her face. "I'm holding on by a fine thread, Adriel…I long to unleash the full force of my gift on that bastard Dilandau…" Here she actually growled.
"Now, now, come, Sylvana, don't lower yourself to his level, it's not worth it." Sylvana let out another shaky sigh.
"You're right, Adriel, you're right. He's not worth my time and energy…" She brushed a pale flaxen strand out of his bottomless, sea-green eyes, "I'll try to hold on a while longer…but I can't make any promised about how long I'll last." Adriel kissed her forehead.
"Come now," he said, "there are much more happier things to talk about."
Adriel remained almost the entire day, but finally he had to go if her were to make it back to the vale before night fall, not that the darkness bothered him to badly, he being of Owl Clan.
"Sylvana, before I go there's something I have to tell you," Adriel murmured, "The three clans have begun to get organized. We're all planning a way to get you away from here."
"No!" cried Sylvana sharply, "no, Adriel, you mustn't, too many people will get hurt…"
"Don't be ridiculous, Sylvana, you yourself said that you can't stand to be in this place much longer. Surely these humans can't afford to be fighting two different wars at the same time."
"That's not the point, Adriel…I'm a big girl I can take care of myself and there are for more subtle ways to escape than starting a battle."
"Sylvana -"
"No, I'm serious…tell them to leave things alone. You wish to fight, fine…but don't make it about me." A strange unreadable look crossed Adriel's face, "I mean it, Adriel!" Sylvana said, "Leave me out of it; go join the humans on the other side, but leave me out of it." Just as she said this Dilandau showed up with three of his dragon slayers. Sylvana looked at the pale captain and sighed mockingly, "Aren't you dead yet?" she asked letting a nasty smile touch her lips. She then looked past the captain to his slayers and held back an animalistic snarl. Something was going on, and she didn't like the smell of it. "What's going on?" She asked in a poisonously sweet tone.
"These dragon slayers will escort Adriel out beyond any Zaibach forces so that he doesn't meet with any…unfortunate accidents." This time a growl did escape Sylvana. What was Dilandau up to? Adriel laid a calming hand on Sylvana's shoulder.
"I'll see you soon," he promised.
"Remember what I said," she said in a low voice. Adriel sighed but nodded and then gave her a quick, sweet kiss before shifting into the form of an eagle sized golden, eared owl. Sylvana watched until Adriel was out of her sight and then turned, slowly, deliberately, to face the pale Zaibach captain.
"I know you're up to something, human," she hissed, "and if any harm comes to Adriel, I promise you, you won't live to regret it." She then pushed her way past him and vanished through the door.
Chapter 4
Sylvana had been delighted when Dilandau had requested…actually it had been more of a demand…that she spar with him. She'd been sparring with two or three of the other dragon slayers a couple times a week and word of her surprising skill had reached the captain's ears. Her mother and then her guide had always believed that one could never be too careful and both had trained her to use sword and knife well. Her style was slightly different from that which these humans used, which gave her an edge. She was always able to catch them off guard with a well-timed move they didn't know. Her sword was a slender double-edged blade that was surprisingly light. This suited her well for her size and it being made of Laicar steel, as the humans had come to call it, was far stronger than any blade the Zaibach soldiers possessed.
The Laicar weren't warriors, they didn't believe in battles among those of the same race…As far back as Laicar history could tell, never had there been a war among the Laicar clans. The only wars in their history were those between the dark sorcerers and between other beings who sought their destruction; humans having the greatest staring rolls in these chronicles.
Sylvana would have to be careful, it would be too easy for her to snap and do something she'd regret later on. She'd have to remain temperate or someone would die, and she had little doubt just who that someone would be.
*******
Dilandau had been surprised when he heard from his slayers that the Laicar woman was skilled in swordplay. He didn't know of many women, who could fight well. As a matter-of-fact, only one of his dragon slayers was actually a woman. Women just didn't fight…well, human women anyway, and even that wasn't entirely true. He was impatient to see just how skilled she truly was…It was equally likely that those three slayers were no more than incompetent.
"I certainly hope you aren't making a mistake, human." Dilandau turned just as Sylvana appeared. Her pale tresses were tied back loosely with a jade-green cord and she wore a sleeveless, short-skirted dress of the same colour; one that seemed to have the elaborate patterns of leaves so expertly woven into it that they seemed to change as she moved; the very one she'd been wearing when they'd first met those months back when his guymelef had crashed in the deep woods belonging to the Laicar. She wore boots, as opposed to the sandals she usually wore, that came up just past the middle of her calves and in place of the tapered crystal on the platinum chain she usually wore, she wore a braided silver or platinum torque. She absently toyed with one of the falcon-shaped armbands she wore about her upper arms. She often wore these, the symbol of her clan. Her look was cool and indifferent and she regarded him with her pale icy eyes for several moments. Was that irritation he saw in them? Perhaps a suppressed flash of anger? She held in her hand what appeared to be a slender sword, still sheathed and she rested the point of it on the floor and leaned against it slightly.
"Do you have any idea what will happen if I lose my temper during this little sparring session?" she asked in a soft voice that seemed to make it sound that much more ominous.
"Is that a threat?" demanded Dilandau almost surprised at that nearly ludicrous notion. Sylvana shrugged in that fluid way of hers, never taking her intense gaze off of him.
"Would you like it to be?" she asked, still in that cool soft tone. Dilandau sneered
"How about we find out just what you're made of? My dragon slayers say you're good…but I'm still sceptical. You don't seem to be the type to enjoy a good battle." Sylvana shifted and pulled her sword from its sheath. It seemed to be alight with a dull fire, just as her dragon-like eyes seemed to glow in the dim light. Light glinted off her blade, revealing what appeared to be runes, inset with ivory, that ran down the length of the blade. The hilt was shaped like some sort of bird, its long tail streaming partway down the middle of the blade itself and its eyes inset with glittering blue gems. Dilandau blinked and the ivory runes seemed to glow dimly and then form words…It took him a moment before he realized that they formed a name, 'Quicksylver'. Sylvana let a faint smile touch her lips.
"Battle? Two people sparring hardly constitutes a battle, Dilandau," she said, her tone still soft, but no less menacing, and not at all hiding her contempt for him, "Are you sure you want to do this?" As a reply, the young man charged her. Sylvana quickly spun out of the way and met his first swing deftly with her own sword.
"Nice try," she hissed softly, almost through her teeth, "but you'll have to try harder…" Dilandau swung, Sylvana parried and then ducked out of the way of another swing. She was quick and lithe and almost seemed to dance as she spun and parried.
"So, am I as skilled as your slayers claimed?" she asked as she dodged another swing and danced out of the range of his sword, "my mother was one of the finest swordswomen of our clan…She taught me well before she died and my guide continued my training once she was gone. There isn't a Laicar woman alive who is not skilled with at least one weapon…"
"You're trying to distract me," Dilandau snapped.
"Not so," replied Sylvana as she parried, "I talk to divert my concentration from what my sword arm is doing…" She danced out of his range again and then moved swiftly forward to attack, "A good Laicar sword-master knows that in a battle it's not thought that constitutes high skill, it's *instinct*…" As she said this she dodged a strike, then whirled, whipped her arm backward and struck Dilandau in the face with the hilt of her sword. Not expecting this, the strike jarred the slayer captain and he stumbled back, his grip loosening on his sword just enough that Sylvana could kick it free of his hand. She then used her foot to cast it into the air so that she could catch it in her free hand. She pointed both swords at the captain and stared at him coolly in silence for several good long moments. Dilandau gazed back at her and thought he saw a violent flash of hate pass over her features. She adjusted her grip on the swords, tightening it as though trying to make a careful decision and then she slowly lowered the two swords.
"One other thing," she said, her voice calm, "I was taught that in real life battles are never fair, so I don't ever fight fair when I spar…" She backed away a few steps. "I believe this session is finished," she stated and then tossed Dilandau his sword before snatching up her scabbard and then vanishing from the room.
*******
Sylvana gazed out silently over the land far below the fortress. She had not yet changed from what she'd worn during her sparring session with the slayers' captain. She had been thinking…
"You think too much Sylvana," a voice echoed in her memory. It had been Myrage who had spoken those words the night before they'd left for the festival.
"Indeed? Well at least I think," she had replied to her golden-eyed sister. What were her siblings doing now? She wondered. She sighed and then pushed herself away from the balcony, considering again the mock battle she'd had with Dilandau. She doubted he had any idea how near at hand death had been then. After she'd disarmed him, a sudden flash of hateful anger had taken hold of her. If it hadn't been for her self-control she very well could have killed him then, the temptation had been so strong.
"When you fight against monsters, you must look within so as to be certain you do not become a monster yourself…" Her Da had had been full of such proverbs. She remembered that much about him and he was always quoting one or another to her and her siblings.
"It's far easier said than done, Da," she now murmured to herself, "especially when hate has planted its dark seed within your soul…Gods, never in my lives did I believe I could hate one person so deeply." She was glad Serene wasn't there. She had gone off somewhere with wise Anya to keep an eye on her. Sylvana knew the child, be she empath or no, would pick up on her feelings right now. She doubted they had ever been so intense as they now were. She absently twisted one of her platinum rings back and forth, as she thought to herself.
'Sylvana,' she told herself mentally, 'you're a smart young woman. Get yourself under control. For gods' sake, don't let your hate control you…Hold on to your sanity.' It certainly wasn't easy to stay sane when you had a small child to keep a constant eye on while vultures and wolves watched form behind and the person you were in the custody of was a madman himself.
Chapter 5
"Anya?" said Serene to the bird perched on her shoulder.
:Aye, little one?:
"Do you think Sylvie's all right, I mean, she's harboring a lot of anger and hate, I can sense it…Do you think she'll act on it?" There was a long pause.
:Well, little fox, I cannot say for certain. She is a strong one, Sylvana, but that Dilandau…Worry not, young one, I'm sure all will be well.: Serene took a few moments to let this sink in and then paused as she turned her glowing sapphire eyes on the firebird.
"Will she kill him?" She asked in a near whisper, fear evident in her voice and adding a slight edge to her tone.
:I cannot say, my fox cub. With her powerful gift of empathy and her tendency to lose control of it when in a rage…she very well could…:
"NO!" cried Serene, "she can't…I mean, she mustn't…I mean -"
:Peace, child,: murmured the bird in her musical mind voice, :all will be well. Why do you worry so about the boy anyway? He clearly cares for none other than himself. By the winds, I wouldn't be surprised if he truly believed that the whole of the universe revolved around him and not the sun…: This gained the bird a musical giggle out of the little girl.
"It's hard to explain, Anya, but there's something there…I can sense it, though it's not quite in my vision…yet. I know it's important I find it, but it' so elusive…" That was her spirit speaking now, the ancient knowledge of her past lives all surfacing for that brief moment. The child shrugged so that Anya had to flap her wings to stay balanced as the moment quickly passed.
:I do wish you would not do that, Serene,: she chided.
"Sorry, Anya," replied Serene, suppressing another giggle.
*******
Viole wasn't surprised to find Sylvana in her quarters. He had noticed that she spent most of her time there when she wasn't healing the sick and injured men…or sparring. She was now reclining comfortably on her lounge, browsing one of her old leather-bound volumes. Looking at her from his position in the doorway, with the sunlight entering from the balcony doors falling directly upon her, Viole knew for certain that Lord Dilandau couldn't see past his own refection, as handsome as it was. Close to half of Sylvana's thick silvery tresses had been arranged into two plaits entwined with deep violet ribbons that were arranged simply on her head. The rest was left loose to flow in pale silvery waves down her back. She wore a dress, sleeveless and relatively formfitting as usual, the same deep royal purple as the ribbons in her hair, its full-length skirt slit up both sides so that her graceful legs were revealed. She wore her falcon armbands as she usually did, a platinum torque at her throat and the teardrop pendant that she always wore. She didn't look up at him when she spoke.
"What can I do for you, dragon slayer?" Viole was silent a good while, almost forgetting why he'd come. When he didn't speak, she turned her icy silver-green eyes on him.
"Well?" she asked, sounding a little impatient. He'd also found that she seemed to be growing less and less patient with the humans around her as each day passed. Somehow, he couldn't blame her. It was clear that she was growing weary of Lord Dilandau's constant abuse and wondered if she was planning to finally deal with him out right…Would she let him help? Viole suddenly caught himself. What was he thinking? Mutiny? Was he thinking about mutiny?
"Viole!" Sylvana's clear, silvery voice cut knife-like into his thoughts. He snapped back to reality to see Sylvana staring at him intensely. "Was there something you wanted?" The irritation in her voice was quickly growing in strength.
"Yes…uh…I was sent to bring you a message…Someone's here to see you…" That caught the young woman's attention.
"That's impossible," she stated flatly in a cool voice after a few moments had passed, "It's too early…" Viole shrugged, not knowing what to tell her. He agreed that it was strange. It was only a week since the young Laicar man had come to visit. He had supposedly been escorted to the outer perimeters of the forest the Laicar called home by three dragon slayers, none of which had returned yet…
"I don't know what more to tell you," he finally said. Sylvana nodded and snapped her tome shut with a dull bang.
"And I suppose you're here to escort me as well?" Viole nodded mutely.
"Typical," she sighed out and levered herself up off the sofa, "Lead the way, human…"
They walked a good distance in silence until Viole broke it.
"It seems you never come out of your apartment," he stated.
"Indeed. What of it?"
"Well…I was just curious as to why?" Sylvana laughed bitterly.
"Trying to solve the riddle that is Sylvana Moonfire, are you?" she murmured, "It's simple…Promise, me trees, promise me grass, promise me free flowing water and the sky stretched out above me, and then I'll have a reason to leave my apartments. This gloomy place depresses me…Why do you take such an interest in me, human? Haven't you more important things…like your dragon and your war…to concern yourself with?"
"Probably…but…"Viole stopped himself.
"But?" Now Sylvana sounded curious.
"Nothing…"
"By the Powers! I hate it when people do that…" she grumbled, "start as if to say something and then don't…The only thing more annoying is people who lie to themselves…"
"What do you mean by that?"
"Just what it sounds like…There are too many humans on this flying fortress who are lying to themselves or are following what others expect of them…It's a foolish and pointless way to live." Viole opened his mount to protest, but closed it again. There was a grain of truth to what she said…Actually there were many grains of truth in what she said…As a matter of fact, if each one of those grains was a grain of salt, then they'd probably have enough salt to supply the soldiers of the Vione for half a year. She understood those around her very well, so well in fact that it was uncanny. That was something else Viole had learned about her during the months she'd been on the fortress. She seemed to be able to see into the very hearts of the people around her and see exactly what lay therein, even the most private feelings that were locked away from all others, and sometimes even themselves. She was a mysterious one, that Sylvana.
****
Sylvana still puzzled over Viole. She just couldn't quite understand how he ended up in a place like this, fighting for a mad captain, serving an evil emperor…he didn't strike her as the type who would…of course, it has always seemed to her that humans were likened to wolves, following the pack leader whichever way it may be, whether it be to the hunt or to flee and hide until later. They would even kill off their leader if he were to exhibit any sign of weakness. The thing that made humans different from wolves, though, at least what she found, was that wolves hunted to eat, and killed to protect the pack; they did not kill needlessly. Humans on the other hand…well that was an entirely different story. Many foolish humans hunted for sport and killed in spite…Dilandau was one of these…but Viole wasn't. Humans often puzzled her somewhat. Their women were often oppressed, and their social structure was, often enough, hierarchical. In Laicar society, all people were equal. Important tasks, border patrol, kitchen duty, and many other tasks, such as gardening and hunting, were shared by the entirety of the clan. There was a clan head, but they were chosen by the rest of the clan and were simply there in order to advise and to solve any problems and disputes that the people couldn't. There were the elders, who were all part of a council who worked out important decisions that the rest of the clans often voted on later. The leader of the clans had to be selected by the elders and then accepted by the clans in order to truly become the leader and in a way the leader of the clans was simply the equivalent of the clan heads. There were some tasks that only certain individuals could do, such as seers, and the four classes of magicians, elementalists, mages, sorcerers and enchanters. There was little that resembled a hierarchy in Laicar society and monarches did not exist at all in the true sense of the word. Of course, because of this, Laicar society, it seemed, had grown stagnant over the centuries, but only because the elders had convinced all and sunder that everything was governed by fate and that free will was no more than an illusion. Sylvana didn't believe that, though, but because of these beliefs belonging to the elders, Laicar society had ceased to expand and well…
'I wonder who's here to see me and why?' She wondered as she entered the room…
"Sylvan?!" she cried when her eyes rested on her brother, "Sylvan…How…What are you doing here?" she cried hurrying up to him.
"Sylvana," said Sylvan, a slight smile touching his lips, but Sylvana could sense that something was wrong.
"Did something happen, Sylvan?" she demanded, "Are Shadow and Myrage all right…What happened…I know something's wrong…I can read you like a book…what's going on…?!"
"Peace," murmured Sylvan in a calming voice, a much broader smile spreading across his face, "Shadow and Myrage are fine…I came to see how you are and to bring you this…" He handed her a bronze message tube, "Listen," he then continued, "don't open it until you're alone in your quarters, please."
"What? Why? Sylvan, why can't you just tell me what is going on…Couldn't this have waited?" She indicated the message.
"No, I'm afraid it couldn't, Sylve…I'm sorry."
"You're sorry? For what? Now I know something's wrong. Why couldn't this wait? What in the hells are you keeping from me, Sylvan?" Sylvana demanded.
"Just read the message later and you'll understand," her brother stated calmly just as Dilandau, looking none to pleased, made his appearance. Sylvana glanced over her shoulder at the young silver haired human and then gave her brother an uncertain look before looking again at the message she held in her hand.
"Very well, Sylvan," she said, "I'd better take my leave." She then turned away and headed for the door, which Dilandau still stood in front of, blocking her exit. "Get out of my way, human," she hissed, "now, if you value your life." A flash of anger distorted Dilandau's handsome features, but only for a moment before his arrogant smile returned. However, he moved out of her way and let her pass without a word.
****
Dilandau eyed Sylvana's twin brother curiously for several moments. The young man's pale silver hair, only slightly darker than his sisters, fell to just barely past his shoulders and he was studying Dilandau in return with is own bright, sparkling eyes the colour of dark jade. He was much taller than Sylvana and though well toned and muscular, still had that elegant, almost cat-like grace that all Laicar appeared to possess.
"Why are you here, boy?" demanded Dilandau in a mocking tone.
'Boy,' mouthed Sylvan silently before speaking, "I came to see my sister, I had to deliver a message that couldn't wait. Do you have any family, human…any siblings?" Dilandau was taken aback by this blunt question.
"What's it to you?" the young captain demanded.
"Well, you see," said Sylvan, "I wonder, because I was just considering what is contained in that message of Sylvana's. When she finds out about…Well, let's just say that right now, if I were you, I'd be highly on guard, for when she reads it…Human, if I were you, I'd fear for my life. Sylvana is like a wolf with cubs when angered…You obviously haven't been heeding the warnings you've been given, human." Dilandau scoffed.
"Why should you care so much for her? She landed you all in exile…Why would you follow someone so pathetic into exile? You're all a bunch of sentimental fools…"
"Better a sentimental fool than a mindless sheep…or a soulless tyrant," Sylvan replied, the epitome of calm. No anger or even irritation showed on his face or lingered in his voice, "We all follow her because we believe in her and her truths and ideals…And I personally follow her because she is my twin sister, born on the same day to the same parents. We share the same parents, the same blood and many of the same beliefs. I would follow her to the ends of Gaea or down into the deepest of the hells to save her if I had to; I would fight, kill and die for her if it would help to bring her truths to light, and I am not the only one who would claim this. You obviously have no idea what it's like to command such loyalty, human, loyalty that is unconditional. Your men fight for you because they feel obliged or because they fear you or your emperor. We fight for Sylvana because we love her and all that she's done for us, even if we are in exile. She is the type of leader you and your accursed emperor could never hope to be…She is my sister, she is the most important thing in the world to me. Let me put it simply: our mother is dead, and our father…well we rarely see him. He more seems like a myth to us that a true person. She is the only true blood kin I have, for our sisters have different mothers. I'd do anything for my sisters, but especially Sylvana."
"Hmm," Dilandau was somewhat impressed. This young fool showed the kind of loyalty that made for some of the best soldiers. What a shame he wasn't human, and was on the neutral team in this game. The captain stayed silent however.
"I believe I should now take my leave," stated Sylvan calmly, "Oh, and take my advise, human, watch your back or Sylvana will put a knife in it after she'd finished with that message. She may seem a weak woman to your eyes, but she's far stronger than any she-wolf when push comes to shove…be careful." That said, a pale white-silver glow emanated from Sylvan and then there was a white falcon in the place of where the young man had been before. The large bird soared away from the Vione with surprising speed. What had Sylvan meant? Dilandau wondered. What were those sneaky youths plotting now?
Chapter 6
As Sylvana perused a book, she found herself reading the same paragraph for abut the fifth time. It was official -- she was completely distracted. Her eyes drifted back to her desk where the bronze message tube sat; the message still unread. She was afraid to open it; afraid to find out just what had happened and who it had happened to. She knew something was wrong, that something had happened…to someone she cared about. She turned her eyes back to her book, only to find herself utterly unable to concentrate. With a sight of exasperation she shut the book with a bang, tossed it onto the bed, and levered herself to her feet. She took several steps toward her desk, then stopped, and just stared at the message. Slowly, she began to pace while chewing on a silver thumbnail, debating internally whether she really wanted to find out what that message had to say or not. She knew it was nothing good, Sylvan had already made it that clear. Finally she ceased her pacing and stared at that damned scroll tube again for several minutes before sucking in a deep, shaky breath and walking the rest of the way to her desk and with one more moment's hesitation, she picked up the message and removed the rolled up parchment from the tube. She took in another deep breath and began to read the scroll. As she read, she felt the blood drain from her face and she had to read it several more times before what had happened finally sank in and the parchment fell from her trembling hands.
"Oh, gods, no," she whispered in a hoarse voice. Of all the terrible things she might have been expecting, this had to be one of the worst…never in her worse nightmares had she ever…She felt a wave of nausea wash over her and she hurried over to her balcony for some fresh air. She leaned against the railing, feeling her entire body trembling uncontrollably and it was only then that she realized that she was weeping bitter tears. This was Dilandau's doing, she had little doubt and this was the final straw. She was finished playing his cruel game. She wouldn't take any more. Her bitter sorrow was quickly replaced as a furious rage washed over her.
"Enough is enough," she snarled to herself. She made her way toward the door, only pausing long enough to snatch up the roll of parchment from the floor and then exited her quarters and made her way toward where she expected Dilandau most likely to be.
"We can't let you pass." If Sylvana hadn't been angry before, she certainly was now. She narrowed her ice-cold eyes at the guards then spoke in the poisonously sweet tone she used when she was brimming with hateful fury and was trying to keep it from erupting.
"I must speak with Lord Dilandau, it's important." The guard that had spoken to her blanched at the contempt in her voice that was completely unhidden despite the honey sweet tone. Several moments passed in silence. Finally, Sylvana spread her arms.
"Will you permit me to pass or no?" she asked sounding bored. The guards exchanged nervous glances, but stood steadfast before the closed door.
"I'm sorry, but we cannot let you through," said the second guard. A bitter chuckle escaped Sylvana's throat.
"I'll make you a deal," she said, still in that venomously pleasant voice, "you let me pass, and I'll let you live…" Now the guards both quailed at the malevolence in her voice and then stepped out of the way. Sylvana let a dangerous smile touch her lips, "Thank you," she said and pushed open the door.
*******
Dilandau was holding a breifing with his dragon slayers about their next campaign to capture the dragon. He was in the middle of what he was saying when there was a loud bang as the door flew open.
"Dilandau!" Sylvana didn't exactly shout, but the resonance she used allowed her voice to carry throughout the room, almost seeming to amplify the authoritative tone, she now used. Dilandau stood to look over top of the heads of his men to the beautiful young Laicar who stood just inside the door. He saw she clutched something tightly in her hand and the fury on her face was unmistakable.
"What are you doing here?!" he demanded, "How did you get past the guards?" A wicked smile passed across her features.
"Guards? Oh, you mean those men outside the door? They let me pass. It seems they value their lives more than others on this fortress."
"What?!" Sylvana's smile was quick to fade and as she moved away from the door and headed toward Dilandau, the ranks of men parted to let her through until she stood directly before him.
"I demand a word with you, human," she snarled.
"Who are you to demand anything?" demanded Dilandau, his own anger, at first being interrupted and now being made a fool of in this manner, beginning to rise.
"I am a Laicar enchantress of one of the highest orders and the future leader of my people…and you are just a human," Sylvana snarled back "The only reason you remain alive is because I obviously have higher moral standards than you do and excellent control over my temper, but now my patience has reached the end of its rope."
"What are you talking about?"
"You promised me you wouldn't harm him," hissed Sylvana, brandishing the crumpled piece of parchment at him.
"Who?" demanded Dilandau.
"Is there something wrong with your head?" snapped Sylvana, "You had Adriel killed! You promised me he wouldn't be harmed!" Dilandau crossed his arms and let a smirk touch his lips.
"Adriel…you mean that coward who was here about a week ago?"
"Coward? You have him killed when he's unsuspecting and outnumbered and you call him a coward?! You impossible bastard!" Dilandau chuckled and approached the small Laicar.
"What if I did have him killed? Do you really think you can do anything about it…little girl?"
"Oh, I assure you -- there is much I can do, human. What I'd like to know is how you can sleep at night after all that you've done to this world. You will have a hand in causing it's destruction…did you know that, Lord Dilandau?" She spoke his name like it left a foul taste in her mouth. Her pale silvery eyes seemed to be ablaze with fury. Dilandau scoffed, "I'm tired of your abuse, human. I tolerated it these past months only because I have a sense of honour that you obviously don't. I agreed to be your healer in return for Adriel's life, now, he's dead and I'm no longer bound to follow your orders. Gods…I should have left you in the woods for the wolves and the wyrms. I'll see your blood pay for his, so help me I swear it -"
"That's enough!" snapped Dilandau. His temper finally snapping, he quickly raised his arm and slapped the smaller woman across the face hard enough that she reeled under the blow as the sound resounded through the hall. A thick silence fell upon all the men there. Even Dilandau was surprised that he'd raised his hand against her. Slowly, Sylvana straightened and looked directly into the young man's eyes. Shock was the most evident in them, but also there Dilandau saw, not fear, not submission, as he would have expected to see had she been one of his slayers. No, in her eyes was bright, burning rage, so powerful silvery flames seemed to flicker in them. She raised her left hand and in one surprisingly swift movement backhanded the young man across the face so hard that he staggered. One of the three rings she wore on that hand left an ugly gash, which wept bright red blood across his left cheek. The wound wouldn't scar, but it would be a while before it healed. Dilandau looked even more shocked then she had when he'd struck her.
"Now, you listen to me, human, and listen well," she hissed in a low, chillingly calm voice, "if you ever dare to raise a hand to me like that again, then you'll be lucky if all you lose is an arm." That said she turned away and headed back toward the door. More than one of the dragon slayers were quick to jump out of her way. None of them had ever seen anything like that. No one had ever stood up to the young lord in that manner before…and no one had ever even dreamed of striking him. Every single eye was on her as she vanished out the door. A tension no one had noticed was there before suddenly seemed to snap and at the exact moment the door slammed shut, every single tapestry on the wall burst into bright indigo and violet flames that continued to burn well after the material had been reduced to ashes.
Sylvana went over the notes she'd written about the vision the Powers had sent her adding any more as was needed. She let the memory play over in her mind again.
'The converged realities will fragment, infinity will shatter and Gaea will be destroyed…'
"Dust to dust," she murmured and closed the book she kept her notes in. She locked it and then stowed the key away and replaced the book on the shelf. She hadn't been able to get the vision out of her head since the day it had been revealed to her. It just kept replaying in her head over and over. She'd even dreamed it once or twice and it had been more detailed then ever. She didn't know why it should be up to a Laicar to solve a disaster the humans were bringing upon themselves. The Laicar could simply escape to a new realm as they had when the humans of earth had seen fit to chase them away for fear of their great power. Since then, the Laicar had always been hesitant to get involved in human affairs. If there was one-thing humans did best, it was to get themselves in over their heads and then have no way to bail out the boat before it sank, so to speak. This time, however, it was different. It was only one human who sought this destruction. The others involved were merely incidental. They were the servants and lackeys of this man. In truth they were only following orders and thus were more deserving of compassion in the eyes of the Powers. Also, there was the fact that there were others who saw the flaws in Dornkirk's ideals, even if they didn't realize what the consequences would be if they failed. There were still humans deserving of mercy, thus were the Powers That Be, be they gods or other, willing to be merciful. Sylvana sighed, but why should she be the one to right these wrongs? She knew the answer…It was because of who she was…who her father was, and where she was. She was her father's daughter, thus did she have the attention of the Powers already; child of Falcon and Phoenix; Air and Flame…Healer, enchantress and prisoner of Lord Dilandau Albatou. She was conveniently on a Zaibach floating fortress. She had some amount of influence here, even if none of the soldiers realized it, but she couldn't help but wonder if there was something else here the Powers wished for her to take notice of…or someone. Her guide was remaining stubbornly silent about such a thing and as for Serene, if she knew anything, she too had nothing to say at the time. Sylvana felt the first symptoms of a headache coming on…stress. Too many questions, too many concerns…and far too many injured soldiers to take care of. Sylvana resisted the urge to fling the first thing that came into her hand across the room and collapsed onto her bed with a groan. The Powers were punishing her; the gods were punishing her; someone was punishing her, that had to be it!
*******
Dilandau puzzled over his strange dream for the third time since he'd had it. What exactly did it mean…and who was that girl? He knew her…he was sure he knew her, but how? From where? He couldn't remember ever meeting her before…but then, there tended to be a lot of things about his life he didn't remember to his utmost frustration. He knew he should be concerning himself more with that Laicar. How was he supposed to get her to follow his commands when she openly defied him the way she did? It drove him insane…well more so than he already was anyway. It didn't matter, all people had their weaknesses, and once he found hers, he'd break her and mould her to his will easily. He contemplated the child a moment. That little brat could easily be Sylvana's weakness, but he was reminded of the words of that strange cat-woman. Dared he threaten the tiny Laicar? Dared he risk his life and the rest of Zaibach on a whim to control a woman who could possibly be controlled some other way? No, he didn't, for now little Serene would remain safe…for now.
*******
Sylvana gazed out at the vast azure sky; It was -- so beautiful. Gods, how she ached to be out there soaring on the wind like she used to for hours on end to clear her head when she was back, safe in the vale. She closed her eyes and felt the breeze in her hair and on her face. What she wouldn't give to feel the wind against her wings, the ground, seemingly along with her problems, far away as the air currents carried her which ever way they pleased. She sighed and let her imagination carry her away.
****
Viole entered Sylvana's quarters without knocking. It was one of those days when one of the representatives of her clans would come, if only to remind her that they hadn't forgotten her. At first he didn't see her as he cast his glance about, but then his eyes alighted on her where she stood on her balcony, a slight breeze blowing through her hair and causing her long viridian skirt to billow slightly about her legs. Hesitantly he approached her.
"Sylvana, you're supposed to be meeting with one of your clan members…" he stated matter-of-factly, and then curiously, "What are you doing?"
"Mmm?…feeling the wind," she murmured as he came to stand beside her, "You have no idea what it feels like to be a bird in a cage, do you?" She opened her pale, silvery eyes and looked at him. What kind of statement was that?
"You're not a bird," he protested, somewhat confused. Sylvana let out a low chuckle.
"What, they didn't tell you? Fauquon means falcon child…and I am a bird when I choose to become one…" What? Did this mean that the rumours were true? Could she really change her form? Viole shook his head as if to clear it of such ludicrous thoughts.
"Let's go," he said, a little more sharply than he'd intended and immediately regretted it as he saw Sylvana's well constructed barriers close firmly shut.
"Very well then," she muttered and pushed herself away from the balcony railing and headed toward the door.
****
Sylvana couldn't help but wonder who'd come to visit her this time… It would probably be Ice-Moon. She was the one who came most often. No doubt checking to make sure that her charge was still safe and well…Though why she suspected that her guide wouldn't tell her if Sylvana were otherwise was beyond her. Sylvana entered the room and halted mid-step. Could it really be?
"Adriel!" she cried running to him and throwing herself into his arms, "I can't believe it. It seems like it's been years, no decades -- no longer, lifetimes since I've seen you." She heard Adriel laugh in his warm tenor voice.
"You didn't think I'd come and visit you?" He let a look of mock indignation play across his beautiful face, "now really Sylve, you know me so much better than that."
"Yes, well," Sylvana shrugged fluidly, "it's hard not to despair in this place. I hate this place…You have no idea how many times I've longed to accidentally (on purpose) knock over a candle onto my books…" Adriel circled her shoulders with a graceful, yet muscular arm.
"You wouldn't do that; you love your books far too much…"
"Just the same, it would be a worth while sacrifice." She let out an explosive sigh and pressed her hands against her face. "I'm holding on by a fine thread, Adriel…I long to unleash the full force of my gift on that bastard Dilandau…" Here she actually growled.
"Now, now, come, Sylvana, don't lower yourself to his level, it's not worth it." Sylvana let out another shaky sigh.
"You're right, Adriel, you're right. He's not worth my time and energy…" She brushed a pale flaxen strand out of his bottomless, sea-green eyes, "I'll try to hold on a while longer…but I can't make any promised about how long I'll last." Adriel kissed her forehead.
"Come now," he said, "there are much more happier things to talk about."
Adriel remained almost the entire day, but finally he had to go if her were to make it back to the vale before night fall, not that the darkness bothered him to badly, he being of Owl Clan.
"Sylvana, before I go there's something I have to tell you," Adriel murmured, "The three clans have begun to get organized. We're all planning a way to get you away from here."
"No!" cried Sylvana sharply, "no, Adriel, you mustn't, too many people will get hurt…"
"Don't be ridiculous, Sylvana, you yourself said that you can't stand to be in this place much longer. Surely these humans can't afford to be fighting two different wars at the same time."
"That's not the point, Adriel…I'm a big girl I can take care of myself and there are for more subtle ways to escape than starting a battle."
"Sylvana -"
"No, I'm serious…tell them to leave things alone. You wish to fight, fine…but don't make it about me." A strange unreadable look crossed Adriel's face, "I mean it, Adriel!" Sylvana said, "Leave me out of it; go join the humans on the other side, but leave me out of it." Just as she said this Dilandau showed up with three of his dragon slayers. Sylvana looked at the pale captain and sighed mockingly, "Aren't you dead yet?" she asked letting a nasty smile touch her lips. She then looked past the captain to his slayers and held back an animalistic snarl. Something was going on, and she didn't like the smell of it. "What's going on?" She asked in a poisonously sweet tone.
"These dragon slayers will escort Adriel out beyond any Zaibach forces so that he doesn't meet with any…unfortunate accidents." This time a growl did escape Sylvana. What was Dilandau up to? Adriel laid a calming hand on Sylvana's shoulder.
"I'll see you soon," he promised.
"Remember what I said," she said in a low voice. Adriel sighed but nodded and then gave her a quick, sweet kiss before shifting into the form of an eagle sized golden, eared owl. Sylvana watched until Adriel was out of her sight and then turned, slowly, deliberately, to face the pale Zaibach captain.
"I know you're up to something, human," she hissed, "and if any harm comes to Adriel, I promise you, you won't live to regret it." She then pushed her way past him and vanished through the door.
Chapter 4
Sylvana had been delighted when Dilandau had requested…actually it had been more of a demand…that she spar with him. She'd been sparring with two or three of the other dragon slayers a couple times a week and word of her surprising skill had reached the captain's ears. Her mother and then her guide had always believed that one could never be too careful and both had trained her to use sword and knife well. Her style was slightly different from that which these humans used, which gave her an edge. She was always able to catch them off guard with a well-timed move they didn't know. Her sword was a slender double-edged blade that was surprisingly light. This suited her well for her size and it being made of Laicar steel, as the humans had come to call it, was far stronger than any blade the Zaibach soldiers possessed.
The Laicar weren't warriors, they didn't believe in battles among those of the same race…As far back as Laicar history could tell, never had there been a war among the Laicar clans. The only wars in their history were those between the dark sorcerers and between other beings who sought their destruction; humans having the greatest staring rolls in these chronicles.
Sylvana would have to be careful, it would be too easy for her to snap and do something she'd regret later on. She'd have to remain temperate or someone would die, and she had little doubt just who that someone would be.
*******
Dilandau had been surprised when he heard from his slayers that the Laicar woman was skilled in swordplay. He didn't know of many women, who could fight well. As a matter-of-fact, only one of his dragon slayers was actually a woman. Women just didn't fight…well, human women anyway, and even that wasn't entirely true. He was impatient to see just how skilled she truly was…It was equally likely that those three slayers were no more than incompetent.
"I certainly hope you aren't making a mistake, human." Dilandau turned just as Sylvana appeared. Her pale tresses were tied back loosely with a jade-green cord and she wore a sleeveless, short-skirted dress of the same colour; one that seemed to have the elaborate patterns of leaves so expertly woven into it that they seemed to change as she moved; the very one she'd been wearing when they'd first met those months back when his guymelef had crashed in the deep woods belonging to the Laicar. She wore boots, as opposed to the sandals she usually wore, that came up just past the middle of her calves and in place of the tapered crystal on the platinum chain she usually wore, she wore a braided silver or platinum torque. She absently toyed with one of the falcon-shaped armbands she wore about her upper arms. She often wore these, the symbol of her clan. Her look was cool and indifferent and she regarded him with her pale icy eyes for several moments. Was that irritation he saw in them? Perhaps a suppressed flash of anger? She held in her hand what appeared to be a slender sword, still sheathed and she rested the point of it on the floor and leaned against it slightly.
"Do you have any idea what will happen if I lose my temper during this little sparring session?" she asked in a soft voice that seemed to make it sound that much more ominous.
"Is that a threat?" demanded Dilandau almost surprised at that nearly ludicrous notion. Sylvana shrugged in that fluid way of hers, never taking her intense gaze off of him.
"Would you like it to be?" she asked, still in that cool soft tone. Dilandau sneered
"How about we find out just what you're made of? My dragon slayers say you're good…but I'm still sceptical. You don't seem to be the type to enjoy a good battle." Sylvana shifted and pulled her sword from its sheath. It seemed to be alight with a dull fire, just as her dragon-like eyes seemed to glow in the dim light. Light glinted off her blade, revealing what appeared to be runes, inset with ivory, that ran down the length of the blade. The hilt was shaped like some sort of bird, its long tail streaming partway down the middle of the blade itself and its eyes inset with glittering blue gems. Dilandau blinked and the ivory runes seemed to glow dimly and then form words…It took him a moment before he realized that they formed a name, 'Quicksylver'. Sylvana let a faint smile touch her lips.
"Battle? Two people sparring hardly constitutes a battle, Dilandau," she said, her tone still soft, but no less menacing, and not at all hiding her contempt for him, "Are you sure you want to do this?" As a reply, the young man charged her. Sylvana quickly spun out of the way and met his first swing deftly with her own sword.
"Nice try," she hissed softly, almost through her teeth, "but you'll have to try harder…" Dilandau swung, Sylvana parried and then ducked out of the way of another swing. She was quick and lithe and almost seemed to dance as she spun and parried.
"So, am I as skilled as your slayers claimed?" she asked as she dodged another swing and danced out of the range of his sword, "my mother was one of the finest swordswomen of our clan…She taught me well before she died and my guide continued my training once she was gone. There isn't a Laicar woman alive who is not skilled with at least one weapon…"
"You're trying to distract me," Dilandau snapped.
"Not so," replied Sylvana as she parried, "I talk to divert my concentration from what my sword arm is doing…" She danced out of his range again and then moved swiftly forward to attack, "A good Laicar sword-master knows that in a battle it's not thought that constitutes high skill, it's *instinct*…" As she said this she dodged a strike, then whirled, whipped her arm backward and struck Dilandau in the face with the hilt of her sword. Not expecting this, the strike jarred the slayer captain and he stumbled back, his grip loosening on his sword just enough that Sylvana could kick it free of his hand. She then used her foot to cast it into the air so that she could catch it in her free hand. She pointed both swords at the captain and stared at him coolly in silence for several good long moments. Dilandau gazed back at her and thought he saw a violent flash of hate pass over her features. She adjusted her grip on the swords, tightening it as though trying to make a careful decision and then she slowly lowered the two swords.
"One other thing," she said, her voice calm, "I was taught that in real life battles are never fair, so I don't ever fight fair when I spar…" She backed away a few steps. "I believe this session is finished," she stated and then tossed Dilandau his sword before snatching up her scabbard and then vanishing from the room.
*******
Sylvana gazed out silently over the land far below the fortress. She had not yet changed from what she'd worn during her sparring session with the slayers' captain. She had been thinking…
"You think too much Sylvana," a voice echoed in her memory. It had been Myrage who had spoken those words the night before they'd left for the festival.
"Indeed? Well at least I think," she had replied to her golden-eyed sister. What were her siblings doing now? She wondered. She sighed and then pushed herself away from the balcony, considering again the mock battle she'd had with Dilandau. She doubted he had any idea how near at hand death had been then. After she'd disarmed him, a sudden flash of hateful anger had taken hold of her. If it hadn't been for her self-control she very well could have killed him then, the temptation had been so strong.
"When you fight against monsters, you must look within so as to be certain you do not become a monster yourself…" Her Da had had been full of such proverbs. She remembered that much about him and he was always quoting one or another to her and her siblings.
"It's far easier said than done, Da," she now murmured to herself, "especially when hate has planted its dark seed within your soul…Gods, never in my lives did I believe I could hate one person so deeply." She was glad Serene wasn't there. She had gone off somewhere with wise Anya to keep an eye on her. Sylvana knew the child, be she empath or no, would pick up on her feelings right now. She doubted they had ever been so intense as they now were. She absently twisted one of her platinum rings back and forth, as she thought to herself.
'Sylvana,' she told herself mentally, 'you're a smart young woman. Get yourself under control. For gods' sake, don't let your hate control you…Hold on to your sanity.' It certainly wasn't easy to stay sane when you had a small child to keep a constant eye on while vultures and wolves watched form behind and the person you were in the custody of was a madman himself.
Chapter 5
"Anya?" said Serene to the bird perched on her shoulder.
:Aye, little one?:
"Do you think Sylvie's all right, I mean, she's harboring a lot of anger and hate, I can sense it…Do you think she'll act on it?" There was a long pause.
:Well, little fox, I cannot say for certain. She is a strong one, Sylvana, but that Dilandau…Worry not, young one, I'm sure all will be well.: Serene took a few moments to let this sink in and then paused as she turned her glowing sapphire eyes on the firebird.
"Will she kill him?" She asked in a near whisper, fear evident in her voice and adding a slight edge to her tone.
:I cannot say, my fox cub. With her powerful gift of empathy and her tendency to lose control of it when in a rage…she very well could…:
"NO!" cried Serene, "she can't…I mean, she mustn't…I mean -"
:Peace, child,: murmured the bird in her musical mind voice, :all will be well. Why do you worry so about the boy anyway? He clearly cares for none other than himself. By the winds, I wouldn't be surprised if he truly believed that the whole of the universe revolved around him and not the sun…: This gained the bird a musical giggle out of the little girl.
"It's hard to explain, Anya, but there's something there…I can sense it, though it's not quite in my vision…yet. I know it's important I find it, but it' so elusive…" That was her spirit speaking now, the ancient knowledge of her past lives all surfacing for that brief moment. The child shrugged so that Anya had to flap her wings to stay balanced as the moment quickly passed.
:I do wish you would not do that, Serene,: she chided.
"Sorry, Anya," replied Serene, suppressing another giggle.
*******
Viole wasn't surprised to find Sylvana in her quarters. He had noticed that she spent most of her time there when she wasn't healing the sick and injured men…or sparring. She was now reclining comfortably on her lounge, browsing one of her old leather-bound volumes. Looking at her from his position in the doorway, with the sunlight entering from the balcony doors falling directly upon her, Viole knew for certain that Lord Dilandau couldn't see past his own refection, as handsome as it was. Close to half of Sylvana's thick silvery tresses had been arranged into two plaits entwined with deep violet ribbons that were arranged simply on her head. The rest was left loose to flow in pale silvery waves down her back. She wore a dress, sleeveless and relatively formfitting as usual, the same deep royal purple as the ribbons in her hair, its full-length skirt slit up both sides so that her graceful legs were revealed. She wore her falcon armbands as she usually did, a platinum torque at her throat and the teardrop pendant that she always wore. She didn't look up at him when she spoke.
"What can I do for you, dragon slayer?" Viole was silent a good while, almost forgetting why he'd come. When he didn't speak, she turned her icy silver-green eyes on him.
"Well?" she asked, sounding a little impatient. He'd also found that she seemed to be growing less and less patient with the humans around her as each day passed. Somehow, he couldn't blame her. It was clear that she was growing weary of Lord Dilandau's constant abuse and wondered if she was planning to finally deal with him out right…Would she let him help? Viole suddenly caught himself. What was he thinking? Mutiny? Was he thinking about mutiny?
"Viole!" Sylvana's clear, silvery voice cut knife-like into his thoughts. He snapped back to reality to see Sylvana staring at him intensely. "Was there something you wanted?" The irritation in her voice was quickly growing in strength.
"Yes…uh…I was sent to bring you a message…Someone's here to see you…" That caught the young woman's attention.
"That's impossible," she stated flatly in a cool voice after a few moments had passed, "It's too early…" Viole shrugged, not knowing what to tell her. He agreed that it was strange. It was only a week since the young Laicar man had come to visit. He had supposedly been escorted to the outer perimeters of the forest the Laicar called home by three dragon slayers, none of which had returned yet…
"I don't know what more to tell you," he finally said. Sylvana nodded and snapped her tome shut with a dull bang.
"And I suppose you're here to escort me as well?" Viole nodded mutely.
"Typical," she sighed out and levered herself up off the sofa, "Lead the way, human…"
They walked a good distance in silence until Viole broke it.
"It seems you never come out of your apartment," he stated.
"Indeed. What of it?"
"Well…I was just curious as to why?" Sylvana laughed bitterly.
"Trying to solve the riddle that is Sylvana Moonfire, are you?" she murmured, "It's simple…Promise, me trees, promise me grass, promise me free flowing water and the sky stretched out above me, and then I'll have a reason to leave my apartments. This gloomy place depresses me…Why do you take such an interest in me, human? Haven't you more important things…like your dragon and your war…to concern yourself with?"
"Probably…but…"Viole stopped himself.
"But?" Now Sylvana sounded curious.
"Nothing…"
"By the Powers! I hate it when people do that…" she grumbled, "start as if to say something and then don't…The only thing more annoying is people who lie to themselves…"
"What do you mean by that?"
"Just what it sounds like…There are too many humans on this flying fortress who are lying to themselves or are following what others expect of them…It's a foolish and pointless way to live." Viole opened his mount to protest, but closed it again. There was a grain of truth to what she said…Actually there were many grains of truth in what she said…As a matter of fact, if each one of those grains was a grain of salt, then they'd probably have enough salt to supply the soldiers of the Vione for half a year. She understood those around her very well, so well in fact that it was uncanny. That was something else Viole had learned about her during the months she'd been on the fortress. She seemed to be able to see into the very hearts of the people around her and see exactly what lay therein, even the most private feelings that were locked away from all others, and sometimes even themselves. She was a mysterious one, that Sylvana.
****
Sylvana still puzzled over Viole. She just couldn't quite understand how he ended up in a place like this, fighting for a mad captain, serving an evil emperor…he didn't strike her as the type who would…of course, it has always seemed to her that humans were likened to wolves, following the pack leader whichever way it may be, whether it be to the hunt or to flee and hide until later. They would even kill off their leader if he were to exhibit any sign of weakness. The thing that made humans different from wolves, though, at least what she found, was that wolves hunted to eat, and killed to protect the pack; they did not kill needlessly. Humans on the other hand…well that was an entirely different story. Many foolish humans hunted for sport and killed in spite…Dilandau was one of these…but Viole wasn't. Humans often puzzled her somewhat. Their women were often oppressed, and their social structure was, often enough, hierarchical. In Laicar society, all people were equal. Important tasks, border patrol, kitchen duty, and many other tasks, such as gardening and hunting, were shared by the entirety of the clan. There was a clan head, but they were chosen by the rest of the clan and were simply there in order to advise and to solve any problems and disputes that the people couldn't. There were the elders, who were all part of a council who worked out important decisions that the rest of the clans often voted on later. The leader of the clans had to be selected by the elders and then accepted by the clans in order to truly become the leader and in a way the leader of the clans was simply the equivalent of the clan heads. There were some tasks that only certain individuals could do, such as seers, and the four classes of magicians, elementalists, mages, sorcerers and enchanters. There was little that resembled a hierarchy in Laicar society and monarches did not exist at all in the true sense of the word. Of course, because of this, Laicar society, it seemed, had grown stagnant over the centuries, but only because the elders had convinced all and sunder that everything was governed by fate and that free will was no more than an illusion. Sylvana didn't believe that, though, but because of these beliefs belonging to the elders, Laicar society had ceased to expand and well…
'I wonder who's here to see me and why?' She wondered as she entered the room…
"Sylvan?!" she cried when her eyes rested on her brother, "Sylvan…How…What are you doing here?" she cried hurrying up to him.
"Sylvana," said Sylvan, a slight smile touching his lips, but Sylvana could sense that something was wrong.
"Did something happen, Sylvan?" she demanded, "Are Shadow and Myrage all right…What happened…I know something's wrong…I can read you like a book…what's going on…?!"
"Peace," murmured Sylvan in a calming voice, a much broader smile spreading across his face, "Shadow and Myrage are fine…I came to see how you are and to bring you this…" He handed her a bronze message tube, "Listen," he then continued, "don't open it until you're alone in your quarters, please."
"What? Why? Sylvan, why can't you just tell me what is going on…Couldn't this have waited?" She indicated the message.
"No, I'm afraid it couldn't, Sylve…I'm sorry."
"You're sorry? For what? Now I know something's wrong. Why couldn't this wait? What in the hells are you keeping from me, Sylvan?" Sylvana demanded.
"Just read the message later and you'll understand," her brother stated calmly just as Dilandau, looking none to pleased, made his appearance. Sylvana glanced over her shoulder at the young silver haired human and then gave her brother an uncertain look before looking again at the message she held in her hand.
"Very well, Sylvan," she said, "I'd better take my leave." She then turned away and headed for the door, which Dilandau still stood in front of, blocking her exit. "Get out of my way, human," she hissed, "now, if you value your life." A flash of anger distorted Dilandau's handsome features, but only for a moment before his arrogant smile returned. However, he moved out of her way and let her pass without a word.
****
Dilandau eyed Sylvana's twin brother curiously for several moments. The young man's pale silver hair, only slightly darker than his sisters, fell to just barely past his shoulders and he was studying Dilandau in return with is own bright, sparkling eyes the colour of dark jade. He was much taller than Sylvana and though well toned and muscular, still had that elegant, almost cat-like grace that all Laicar appeared to possess.
"Why are you here, boy?" demanded Dilandau in a mocking tone.
'Boy,' mouthed Sylvan silently before speaking, "I came to see my sister, I had to deliver a message that couldn't wait. Do you have any family, human…any siblings?" Dilandau was taken aback by this blunt question.
"What's it to you?" the young captain demanded.
"Well, you see," said Sylvan, "I wonder, because I was just considering what is contained in that message of Sylvana's. When she finds out about…Well, let's just say that right now, if I were you, I'd be highly on guard, for when she reads it…Human, if I were you, I'd fear for my life. Sylvana is like a wolf with cubs when angered…You obviously haven't been heeding the warnings you've been given, human." Dilandau scoffed.
"Why should you care so much for her? She landed you all in exile…Why would you follow someone so pathetic into exile? You're all a bunch of sentimental fools…"
"Better a sentimental fool than a mindless sheep…or a soulless tyrant," Sylvan replied, the epitome of calm. No anger or even irritation showed on his face or lingered in his voice, "We all follow her because we believe in her and her truths and ideals…And I personally follow her because she is my twin sister, born on the same day to the same parents. We share the same parents, the same blood and many of the same beliefs. I would follow her to the ends of Gaea or down into the deepest of the hells to save her if I had to; I would fight, kill and die for her if it would help to bring her truths to light, and I am not the only one who would claim this. You obviously have no idea what it's like to command such loyalty, human, loyalty that is unconditional. Your men fight for you because they feel obliged or because they fear you or your emperor. We fight for Sylvana because we love her and all that she's done for us, even if we are in exile. She is the type of leader you and your accursed emperor could never hope to be…She is my sister, she is the most important thing in the world to me. Let me put it simply: our mother is dead, and our father…well we rarely see him. He more seems like a myth to us that a true person. She is the only true blood kin I have, for our sisters have different mothers. I'd do anything for my sisters, but especially Sylvana."
"Hmm," Dilandau was somewhat impressed. This young fool showed the kind of loyalty that made for some of the best soldiers. What a shame he wasn't human, and was on the neutral team in this game. The captain stayed silent however.
"I believe I should now take my leave," stated Sylvan calmly, "Oh, and take my advise, human, watch your back or Sylvana will put a knife in it after she'd finished with that message. She may seem a weak woman to your eyes, but she's far stronger than any she-wolf when push comes to shove…be careful." That said, a pale white-silver glow emanated from Sylvan and then there was a white falcon in the place of where the young man had been before. The large bird soared away from the Vione with surprising speed. What had Sylvan meant? Dilandau wondered. What were those sneaky youths plotting now?
Chapter 6
As Sylvana perused a book, she found herself reading the same paragraph for abut the fifth time. It was official -- she was completely distracted. Her eyes drifted back to her desk where the bronze message tube sat; the message still unread. She was afraid to open it; afraid to find out just what had happened and who it had happened to. She knew something was wrong, that something had happened…to someone she cared about. She turned her eyes back to her book, only to find herself utterly unable to concentrate. With a sight of exasperation she shut the book with a bang, tossed it onto the bed, and levered herself to her feet. She took several steps toward her desk, then stopped, and just stared at the message. Slowly, she began to pace while chewing on a silver thumbnail, debating internally whether she really wanted to find out what that message had to say or not. She knew it was nothing good, Sylvan had already made it that clear. Finally she ceased her pacing and stared at that damned scroll tube again for several minutes before sucking in a deep, shaky breath and walking the rest of the way to her desk and with one more moment's hesitation, she picked up the message and removed the rolled up parchment from the tube. She took in another deep breath and began to read the scroll. As she read, she felt the blood drain from her face and she had to read it several more times before what had happened finally sank in and the parchment fell from her trembling hands.
"Oh, gods, no," she whispered in a hoarse voice. Of all the terrible things she might have been expecting, this had to be one of the worst…never in her worse nightmares had she ever…She felt a wave of nausea wash over her and she hurried over to her balcony for some fresh air. She leaned against the railing, feeling her entire body trembling uncontrollably and it was only then that she realized that she was weeping bitter tears. This was Dilandau's doing, she had little doubt and this was the final straw. She was finished playing his cruel game. She wouldn't take any more. Her bitter sorrow was quickly replaced as a furious rage washed over her.
"Enough is enough," she snarled to herself. She made her way toward the door, only pausing long enough to snatch up the roll of parchment from the floor and then exited her quarters and made her way toward where she expected Dilandau most likely to be.
"We can't let you pass." If Sylvana hadn't been angry before, she certainly was now. She narrowed her ice-cold eyes at the guards then spoke in the poisonously sweet tone she used when she was brimming with hateful fury and was trying to keep it from erupting.
"I must speak with Lord Dilandau, it's important." The guard that had spoken to her blanched at the contempt in her voice that was completely unhidden despite the honey sweet tone. Several moments passed in silence. Finally, Sylvana spread her arms.
"Will you permit me to pass or no?" she asked sounding bored. The guards exchanged nervous glances, but stood steadfast before the closed door.
"I'm sorry, but we cannot let you through," said the second guard. A bitter chuckle escaped Sylvana's throat.
"I'll make you a deal," she said, still in that venomously pleasant voice, "you let me pass, and I'll let you live…" Now the guards both quailed at the malevolence in her voice and then stepped out of the way. Sylvana let a dangerous smile touch her lips, "Thank you," she said and pushed open the door.
*******
Dilandau was holding a breifing with his dragon slayers about their next campaign to capture the dragon. He was in the middle of what he was saying when there was a loud bang as the door flew open.
"Dilandau!" Sylvana didn't exactly shout, but the resonance she used allowed her voice to carry throughout the room, almost seeming to amplify the authoritative tone, she now used. Dilandau stood to look over top of the heads of his men to the beautiful young Laicar who stood just inside the door. He saw she clutched something tightly in her hand and the fury on her face was unmistakable.
"What are you doing here?!" he demanded, "How did you get past the guards?" A wicked smile passed across her features.
"Guards? Oh, you mean those men outside the door? They let me pass. It seems they value their lives more than others on this fortress."
"What?!" Sylvana's smile was quick to fade and as she moved away from the door and headed toward Dilandau, the ranks of men parted to let her through until she stood directly before him.
"I demand a word with you, human," she snarled.
"Who are you to demand anything?" demanded Dilandau, his own anger, at first being interrupted and now being made a fool of in this manner, beginning to rise.
"I am a Laicar enchantress of one of the highest orders and the future leader of my people…and you are just a human," Sylvana snarled back "The only reason you remain alive is because I obviously have higher moral standards than you do and excellent control over my temper, but now my patience has reached the end of its rope."
"What are you talking about?"
"You promised me you wouldn't harm him," hissed Sylvana, brandishing the crumpled piece of parchment at him.
"Who?" demanded Dilandau.
"Is there something wrong with your head?" snapped Sylvana, "You had Adriel killed! You promised me he wouldn't be harmed!" Dilandau crossed his arms and let a smirk touch his lips.
"Adriel…you mean that coward who was here about a week ago?"
"Coward? You have him killed when he's unsuspecting and outnumbered and you call him a coward?! You impossible bastard!" Dilandau chuckled and approached the small Laicar.
"What if I did have him killed? Do you really think you can do anything about it…little girl?"
"Oh, I assure you -- there is much I can do, human. What I'd like to know is how you can sleep at night after all that you've done to this world. You will have a hand in causing it's destruction…did you know that, Lord Dilandau?" She spoke his name like it left a foul taste in her mouth. Her pale silvery eyes seemed to be ablaze with fury. Dilandau scoffed, "I'm tired of your abuse, human. I tolerated it these past months only because I have a sense of honour that you obviously don't. I agreed to be your healer in return for Adriel's life, now, he's dead and I'm no longer bound to follow your orders. Gods…I should have left you in the woods for the wolves and the wyrms. I'll see your blood pay for his, so help me I swear it -"
"That's enough!" snapped Dilandau. His temper finally snapping, he quickly raised his arm and slapped the smaller woman across the face hard enough that she reeled under the blow as the sound resounded through the hall. A thick silence fell upon all the men there. Even Dilandau was surprised that he'd raised his hand against her. Slowly, Sylvana straightened and looked directly into the young man's eyes. Shock was the most evident in them, but also there Dilandau saw, not fear, not submission, as he would have expected to see had she been one of his slayers. No, in her eyes was bright, burning rage, so powerful silvery flames seemed to flicker in them. She raised her left hand and in one surprisingly swift movement backhanded the young man across the face so hard that he staggered. One of the three rings she wore on that hand left an ugly gash, which wept bright red blood across his left cheek. The wound wouldn't scar, but it would be a while before it healed. Dilandau looked even more shocked then she had when he'd struck her.
"Now, you listen to me, human, and listen well," she hissed in a low, chillingly calm voice, "if you ever dare to raise a hand to me like that again, then you'll be lucky if all you lose is an arm." That said she turned away and headed back toward the door. More than one of the dragon slayers were quick to jump out of her way. None of them had ever seen anything like that. No one had ever stood up to the young lord in that manner before…and no one had ever even dreamed of striking him. Every single eye was on her as she vanished out the door. A tension no one had noticed was there before suddenly seemed to snap and at the exact moment the door slammed shut, every single tapestry on the wall burst into bright indigo and violet flames that continued to burn well after the material had been reduced to ashes.