More like an epilogue than anything else. Sums everything up. Our dear King and Crimson make cameos.
Disclaimer: If I owned Shadow Skill or its characters, I wouldn't be struggling away in school.
of wings and swords
chapter 3
"It is strange," contemplated Darkness aloud as Lilivelt returned to her quarters, "how humans allow themselves to be so held back by their petty emotions."
"Darkness!" Mild surprise. "I didn't know you were coming."
"A schedule is restrictive, and is something that I never bother with." He turned to look at her. "I am not restricted to movement in the night, Lilivelt." He found himself pleased that she had thawed after her cold spell the night before.
She sighed. "I know…"
"It is stranger still," the non-human continued, "how they seem to hold their lives in such low regard."
"It's called honor, Darkness, and it's a beautiful concept," Lilivelt responded. "What would you care about that, anyway? Isn't overcoming the fear of death one of your 'lessons'?"
"Also their meddlesome nature."
"You're one to talk."
He looked amused. "I see your little trip to Kuruda has invigorated you."
"You knew?"
He allowed his lips to curve slightly. "For one that knows you, Lilivelt, you are quite predictable." Then, "…as are most humans. Will you be doing anything about Black Wing's death?"
"Since I'm so predictable," she teased, "do you not already know what I'm about to do?"
"You are about to rest, Princess. The trip to Kuruda has no doubt tired you out, and you have a meeting with your ministers later today."
She cast a half-annoyed glance at him. "Darkness, you seem more and more like a nanny each day."
He did not reply.
"…Darkness…?" She looked up at him worriedly.
"Everything will follow its precedented path, Lilivelt, so I told you last night. Fret no more over the Black Wing incident. I assure you that when Lunaris Umbra returns, all will be all right."
She broke into a grin. "Thank you."
He looked puzzled, an emotion unlike him. "…For what?"
"Everything, Darkness. Everything."
*****
King Iba Stolla surveyed the sevalle in the throne room as he took his place beside Kai. "You are late, Scarface."
"Pardon my tardiness, your Majesty," the man in question said, not sounding apologetic in the least.
"Continue, Crimson."
"…Kaira Lu Luka, the fighter from Lekitor, and Gian Ches, the fighter from Felisha have arrived in Kuruda in bad shape." He paused and looked sharply at Scarface. "…Valle Black Wing has been awarded the title 'Sword of Ashlianna by Princess Lilivelt."
Scarface's eyes widened slightly.
(…I came to find out the truth about Black Wing's death. I have found out enough…)
I see, Princess…
Scarface Vy Low studied the polished marble tiles and saw his reflection's face creased into a smile.
-end-
Never been good at endings. Never.