I don't own Slayers. Never will. Wish I did.
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Slayers SILENCE
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Episode Eight:
"Duels and Deals! Where The New Contract Is Set."
After having a breather over some dinner (in other words, breathing in dinner), Lina sat back and patted her stomach with a satisfied giggle. She never really liked to get that serious for too long; it just wasn't her style. The sorceress knew when it was needed, but just really needed a break from the depressing story.
Now, though? Now was the time to get back into the mood and set some things straight.
"You don't mind if we get into the swing of things again?" Lina first asked Vrumugun after everyone seemed settled. He only nodded. "All righty. Tell us what you can about how Halcyform could bring people back from the dead. We know that Garnia has to do with it, but you, on the other hand, had Dynast there to help with that. What about the others? They can't each have a mazoku linked with 'em."
"No, they do not. While I am the only true success of this method, all the others have no mazoku that they could be linked with, which could be partially why they have all been unsuccessful thus far. Some are deformed as you have seen; the closest, as far as I know, would have to be Dilgear. I am not sure just how well Halcyform has been able to bring back the dead, but I have done my best to destroy all his works," Vrumugun explained.
Amelia nodded slowly, an unusual look of anger on her face. "No one has any right to toy with people!"
"In some cases, many sorcerers find that this kind of thing is perfectly fine," Lina told the princess. "Remember what I said at Rezo's mansion? People are kind of divided about it. Chimeras, copies, and this kind of research are all just fine to some people. Not many these days really get into it now, but you know what I mean."
"Still, it's unjust," Amelia muttered, looking sour as she crossed her arms. Zelgadis touched her shoulder in silent sympathy.
"I still don't understand how Halcyform could even be alive," Zelgadis stated flatly. "We saw him die, and even if he didn't from the Burst Flare he cast on himself, Seigram is dead. The Pledge would have certainly been broken by then."
Vrumugun paused for a moment, closing his eyes. "I am afraid I cannot say. All I know is that it must be Halcyform behind the sudden rise of the dead. Even if I do know how he can do this, I am not capable of it myself. Only Halcyform truly knew what he was doing."
Lina sighed heavily and put her face into her hands. "Great. Well... we do know that it's definitely Halcyform, right?" Again, Vrumugun nodded. "Okay. That almost solves our problem. What to do about Dynast is another thing, though."
"Hope you all don't mind me popping in right about here," Xellos spoke up. "My Mistress has a bit of business now with Lord Dynast since we heard Mr. Vrumugun's little story."
"Let me guess: you won't let him get away with leaving Seigram, a traitor, and Tiiba, a captive of Rezo, alone. Right?" Lina supplied.
Xellos smiled. "Of course, of course! Mr. Vrumugun is our special witness, and we can't let anything happen to him. So for now, I'm to guard him." He beamed at that.
"I am thrilled," Vrumugun muttered.
The Trickster Priest nudged him. "Knew ya would be! We mazoku like to be fair, you know. We had our suspicions since the existence of Sherra, but we could never actually prove it for Mr. Vrumugun is the only living witness."
"So what exactly do you plan to do with Vrumugun?" Zangulus asked, glaring at the mazoku warily.
"Am I that suspicious? No harm will come to him, like I said."
"Yeah, I got that part about being a bodyguard, but what are you actually going to do about it?"
Xellos grew a more mischievous smile. "Maybe you'll find out, Zangy."
The dark haired swordsman got to his feet, about ready to do something violent, but Sylphiel held his arm. Zangulus still shouted at him angrily, "Look, if you're going to go around saying you'll do something about Dynast, I want to know what it is since that effects Vrumugun, all right?!"
The mazoku held up an index finger. "Ah, but you all will see soon enough."
"I don't care! I wanna know now! The best thing is to plan ahead!" Zangulus's face was a little redder than usual. "Of course that goes against my entire journey because I didn't figure that I'd get stuck in a group so big and that my mother is back from the dead and that my best friend is actually dead and he's one hundred and fifty years old and I'd have to face a Dark Lord and that thing in Bolum would come back to haunt me and HAHAHAHA!" The Xoana king fell over, having fainted.
"Mr. Zangulus!" Sylphiel squeaked, trying to help the unconscious man.
Zelgadis and Lina sweatdropped. "I suppose the stress finally got to him," the chimera suggested.
"Maybe we should all hit the sack," Lina mentioned with a shrug.
Gourry raised a brow. "But why would we wanna hit a sack?"
"Figure of speech!" Lina growled a little. "I mean let's get some sleep. It's been a really long day. Guys, you pay for your room. Girls, the guys will pay for our room, too. G'night."
Getting to sleep was easy for the most part for the others. After all, Gourry was tired from the long and wordy story from a monotone voice. Just about everyone else had slipped away into the land of dreams if they hadn't already fainted.
Then there were two remaining party members who either couldn't or didn't need to sleep.
"Tea?" Xellos offered the kettle that he willed to appear. Vrumugun shook his head. "More for me!" He took in a sip, but was disappointed that the mage wasn't very talkative. Still, he couldn't leave; his mistress wanted him safe. "You know, you could save yourself the trouble and just cast a sleep spell."
"I would rather not face my subconscious," Vrumugun replied. Nightmares weren't exactly on his list of joyous things.
"Hm, yes. I suppose not," the mazoku mused. He took another sip. "Besides, that would be boring for me if you just fell asleep, anyway." The mage didn't reply. "Scratch that; it appears to be boring either way."
"Go talk to a wall," Vrumugun politely told him.
Xellos scratched his face a little. "I would, but I'm lying." Another sip. Hm; the tea wasn't as enjoyable as it normally was. "Worried about Lord Dynast tomorrow?"
Vrumugun's eyes drifted over to Zangulus. "Not quite."
"I wonder how upset he'll be when he finds out you have to kill her," Xellos murmured, tapping an index finger on his chin.
The mage's eyes narrowed. "I will worry about that later. Tomorrow they will all be in grave danger, and I know that you will not bother to protect them."
"Oh, well... there, you're half wrong," Xellos spoke, cracking open an eye. "In danger, yes, but they can easily take care of themselves. They always seem to get out of the most amazing of situations."
"There is always the chance they will have a fate worse than death," Vrumugun muttered, giving the mazoku a glare.
The Trickster Priest shrugged lightly. "True, true! But do give them a little more credit. Lord Dynast is the nasty sort, but they'll be fine because you'll no doubt need them in what's to come."
"And that is also a fate worse than death. Most go mad," Vrumugun pointed out. "I would not want them involved. They are already knee deep by going to Zefilia."
"Oh, you're such a pessimist," Xellos half-scolded. "It would take a lot more for them to snap, you know."
"I know, but with the way you work..." Vrumugun spoke a little hotly. His eyebrow twitched before he looked away, apparently no longer interested in their conversation.
Xellos smiled annoyingly again, sipping his tea delicately. If things worked right, then both sides would win, and he'd actually have to owe it all to humans.
What would they do?
It was early morning. Zangulus noticed that Zelgadis was even a much earlier riser and was probably already downstairs; naturally, he expected Vrumugun and Xellos to be gone as well. Gourry still snored away. Zangulus could deal with that, though.
He was sprawled rather comfortably in bed, staring lazily at the ceiling, but his thoughts stressed him out. What the hell would they do when Dynast and Sherra showed up again? Fighting them a second time didn't seem so appealing, having seen just what a mere sword fight with the general was like. If she had actually used her power, the fight would have come out much more ugly.
Zangulus wasn't scared to fight them; not technically. He wouldn't back down from a battle if they started one, but he knew that they would have a slim chance of coming out alive. Vrumugun and Xellos probably would get out...
Logically, in the next battle, they'd be dead.
Naturally, logic never really applied with anyone associated with Lina Inverse. Now there was something Zangulus could count on. Lina was powerful and could probably take down Sherra with her Ragna Blade. Dynast himself then was more of a problem.
The Xoana king rolled onto his side and out of his incredibly lazy position. As strong as they were, he had doubts about taking on another Dark Lord. Hellmaster Phibrizzo was enough for him to remember that subordinates under Shabranigdo were certainly nothing to be taken lightly. Dying for a second time wasn't on Zangulus's "to do" list.
Remembering Hellmaster Phibrizzo...
Zangulus quirked an eyebrow. Two Dragon Slaves at once almost killed the Hellmaster. Would it work for Dynast?
Something told him probably not a good idea... the Dragon Slave took awhile to cast and Dynast was certainly not stupid.
What could be done?
Try getting breakfast, his gut suggested.
Zangulus obeyed.
It had been a relatively quiet breakfast, mostly because everyone refused to talk and a few others were stuffing their faces, making lovely slobbering noises. Zangulus came up with another reason why he really didn't enjoy traveling in groups.
As Lina finished her last bit of food, she smiled pleasantly before looking around the table. Way too many serious expressions for her taste. "Why the long faces?" she snipped.
"Haven't you thought one bit on what we're going to do?" Zangulus first asked, tapping his finger irritably on the table. "Food, THEN think. For crying out loud, Lina..."
"I think better on a full stomach," Lina defended herself. "And do you want my powers to be at their lowest because I'm so hungry? Ohhh, I don't think so, mister!" She coughed. "Anyway... that's besides the point. The point is that we're to do some serious thinking here. I doubt we could really take a step out of this town without meeting up with Dynast and his general, so we're stuck with fighting. In that case, I don't think there's much we can do that'll work against them. Even if they're weaker than Gaav and Phibrizzo, Dynast is one of the smartest of Shabranigdo's five subordinates."
"I would assume, then, that the Ragna Blade would be difficult to do. As many of us as there are, only you can really do any major damage with that spell. The Ra Tilt and any other astral spells are out of the question, especially with no Sword of Light to amplify them," Zelgadis said. "And I honestly must say that I don't think the Howling Sword will be much of use."
Zangulus glared at the chimera for that comment. "I thought about this, too. I was thinking about that double Dragon Slave that Sylphiel and Lina pulled before, but like ya said about Dynast: he wouldn't fall for it too easily."
"Do pardon me for speaking here," Xellos piped up, "but it's not impossible for either the Dragon Slave or the Ragna Blade to work, but I would suggest against attempting to kill Lord Dynast."
"Okay, fine. May I ask exactly why?" Lina requested, giving the Evil Eye to the mazoku.
However, Vrumugun was willing to supply that answer. "Considering Lord Dynast was required for me to be fully revived, I am somewhat linked to him as it is. If he were to die, I would as well, and naturally this goes against Xellos's orders to... protect me." 'Protect' was used rather distastefully.
"Damn... we are so screwed," Lina grumbled, facepalming. Then, immediately she perked up. "Now, that's the last thing I would say! We'll just have to do our best to keep Dynast at bay."
"And what's the likeliness of that?" Zelgadis asked.
Gourry popped in by this point. "I don't really think it matters. We always just kind of find a way to handle it."
"It's not bad to think ahead," Lina added. "But by this point, the best thing we can do is wing it."
"I've got this bad feeling in the pit of my stomach," Zangulus groaned.
Lina snorted. "Don't need to have a bad attitude, y'know."
"I happen to trust my gut feeling more than you right now."
"Ms. Lina and Mr. Gourry are right, though. We'll find a way!" Amelia inserted cheerfully. "No matter the troubles we may face, Justice is on our side, and with that with us, there's nothing we can't do!"
"That makes me feel better," Zangulus grumbled.
Zelgadis sighed lightly. "I suppose there's really nothing else we can do."
Sylphiel seemed to have remained entirely indifferent, her eyes elsewhere and looking to the nearest window. She heard the conversation, but took no actual part in it. Naturally, there would be a way out of this situation... but there was always a price to pay. She knew that better than most people. What kind of thing would they have to risk to get Dynast out of their hair?
Even if they were capable of that, they were getting closer to Rahns. After they arrived, what would she do? Would Zangulus just... leave her there?
She felt a nudge, looking up for a moment and turning to look at Zangulus. His expression had totally changed, now offering a small smile to her.
"I know I sound like one big worrywart, but we'll make it through this. Somehow. I have this feeling that I know something bad will happen, but we'll be fine. Not very comforting since it's not definite; you know I'm lousy with that kind of thing."
Sylphiel shook her head. "No; I appreciate it, Mr. Zangulus." She smiled, although a little nervously. The last time she faced a Dark Lord...
No. Like Zangulus said, somehow they'd make it through. Sylphiel had the same gut feeling and she'd trust that.
Outside, it had snowed lightly, warning of possible brief flurries to come. Half the party members had little to complain about, as they were either hardly human or dressed appropriately. The other half didn't bother to complain, either adjusted to the chill in the air naturally or with magic to aid them in the process.
"How far do you think we have to go before we bump into them?" Lina asked her companions very casually.
"Midway on the road," Zelgadis suggested. "If I'm guessing right, Dynast would want little involvement with other humans, meaning the village behind us."
"It'll probably vary," Amelia joined in the 'game'. "If Mr. Xellos knows everything now, wouldn't Dynast have figured that out and want to get rid of him, too?"
Zelgadis seemed impressed by that. "Good point, Amelia. Then I suppose a little sooner than I anticipated. Perhaps in a few minutes."
"Am I the only one taking this seriously?" Zangulus wondered outloud to himself.
Lina waved her hand a little. "Oh, sometimes you just gotta lighten up a bit. I guess I'm just too used to this kind of thing."
"You should not assume such things. I mean not to insult you, but you should be far more prepared for the worst," Vrumugun told her, his tone growing colder than usual. "I am aware that you are capable of many things, but I also know that you are all only human and can do only so much."
"Fighting them is no problem. What's the worry? If we can at least slow them down, we'll be all right until we think of something else," Lina countered, narrowing her eyes. He's hinting at something. He doesn't mean physical condition, I don't think.
"Just do not lose yourself," Vrumugun warned briefly before he became silent again.
Lina's eyebrow twitched. Damn it, he's being ultra-creepy and suspicious again. She couldn't really blame Vrumugun if something worried him, but as usual it bugged her when someone avoided answering something directly. Probably not as much as it annoyed Zelgadis, but that was besides the point. If she had decided to force him to answer, Zangulus would come up for his defense. After that, it just felt natural to assume Sylphiel would do the same.
Rather not argue with Zang again. We ended up separating and Amelia got hurt when I wasn't around, Lina remembered. I'll just ask him later, I guess...
"Ms. Lina, I do believe our guests are arriving," Xellos noted to the sorceress, getting her attention back to reality.
Even with her inversed Gray Buster spell on, Lina could feel the temperature change in the area. She scowled, the rest of the party stopping with her. The fiery sorceress could have sworn that her boots had been frosted.
Otherwise, it was a very plain entrance; Supreme King Dynast and his general had teleported in front of the group, looking very intent on a fight. Lina kept her eyes on the mazoku that had just arrived, but her sensitive ears picked up various drawings of swords. She imagined any without weapons had already taken a defensive or offensive position for magic.
"Well, well. Here you are. At least you don't like keeping a pretty girl waiting," Lina spoke, giving a light and casual shrug. "Is it all right if I assume that you don't feel like sharing a few parting words before we gotta fight you?"
"You may assume so," Dynast replied, his words spoken just as evenly and calmly the last time he had appeared.
"Psst; Ms. Lina, just injure them as much as you can. I'll do the rest," Xellos whispered to her, growing a devilish little smile.
Lina eyed him. "Don't know what you're up to, but I'll do what I can. You just do what you say and keep an eye on Vrumugun." The cold mage almost snorted at that.
"I'd rather not attack unarmed opponents if it's all the same with you. Are you ready?" Dynast inquired, already sounding bored.
Lina smiled, almost looking uneasy. "Guess I'm all out of jokes to waste time with, anyway." She glanced to both her flanks with her usual confidence. "Let's go!"
Zelgadis didn't like to wait pointlessly, anyway. If Dynast hadn't been out there to kind of kill them, he would have actually gotten along as much as anyone could with the Supreme King. The chimera ran off the trail and held out his hand as he stopped very briefly for a spell to throw at Dynast and Sherra. "Ra Tilt!"
Dynast took the blast, not even wincing. Sherra disappeared and reappeared, evading it. However, the moment the general teleported from the Astral Plane, instinct brought her to pull out her sword to block off the Howling Sword.
"I don't like leaving my previous fights to draws; I hope you don't mind a rematch!" Zangulus challenged the mazoku general.
Sherra narrowed her eyes, but managed a battle grin anyway. "I'd love to." She pushed him away and slashed at him. Zangulus grunted as he blocked her.
Instinct took place again and Sherra parried another sword, raising a brow at Gourry. "I know two on one is really unfair normally, but I guess it doesn't matter with mazoku," he mentioned before he jumped back to evade the Howling Blast aimed for Sherra, who also avoided it.
"On the contrary; I love the odds," Sherra spoke with a low chuckle. "Let's see what little power you two have."
"Elmekia Flame!" Lina had cast, but Dynast ignored the blow. The sorceress cursed silently; even with her talismen boosting the power, the Elmekia Flame could still be taken by the Supreme King. One of those times we could really use the Sword of Light!
"A shame. I had hoped you'd bring forth more amusement than this," Dynast said, not exactly sounding disappointed or actually anything in particular. Without giving the slightest movement of command, ice jabbed out of the ground like stalagmites at Lina and Zelgadis, who both brought up Levitations quickly to get out of the way.
"You who so evilly wishes to seal Mr. Vrumugun and even attempt to bring harm to us warriors of Justice gets my righteous blood boiling!" Amelia shouted, standing atop of one of the various icicles. "Prepare yourself!" She held out her arms before her, casting a Ra Tilt. Dynast absorbed it again, brushing it off as barely nothing.
Immediately coming in was Zelgadis with his sword enchanted by an Astral Vine, swinging it at the mazoku lord. Calling up a sword by will, Dynast blocked, growing one of his rare smiles. It even made Zelgadis briefly shiver from looking at it.
"Inevitable, I suppose, for me to run into the Red Priest's grandson, as well," Dynast mused. "But you cannot defeat me like that."
"Maybe not," Zelgadis admitted, immediately running from the demi-god.
Dynast's sword disappeared as the chimera ran off, glaring after him for a moment. He knew that Zelgadis ran for a reason. What was he...?
"Dolph Strash!" Lina commanded, sending a shockwave out at Dynast. She jumped away as the Dark Lord came to glare her way. What were they doing? They were distracting him from something important.
Dynast heard words.
He turned around sharply toward Sylphiel's way, eyes narrowing. She was casting Lord Shabranigdo's spell!
"...by the power you and I possess!" Sylphiel chanted, holding out the red orb of energy before herself. "DRAGON SLAVE!"
To say the least, the battle ground was quickly cleared of plantlife.
In the midst of it, Dynast brushed his bangs irritably after the explosion. He didn't bother saying how idiotic or how annoying or how meaningless it was to try that, as he figured Lina and her companions would have thought of that already. He just crossed his arms, ice erupting from the ground again.
Away from the explosion (but having to dodge the flying debris), Gourry and Zangulus continued their fight against Sherra. She threw the dark haired man back and charged at Gourry, who managed to parry the blow with a quiet grunt. His sword, which was not enchanted like Zangulus's, was chipped in various places.
"Howling Blast!" Zangulus hissed out under his breath, sending another attack of raw energy at the mazoku. She jumped away, running after him to attack. He cursed, getting onto his feet and dashing off.
It's a long shot, but he'd better catch on, Zangulus thought quickly in his mind. He locked his eyes onto Gourry, running at him.
Sherra held out her hand, throwing various blasts at the swordsmen. After the explosions and the dust had cleared, typically the two were still alive.
Repetitive. They went in for an attack, then ran off, a various blast of energy here and there. Sherra was getting bored.
Just finish them, I suppose, she decided.
Zangulus came charging back toward the general, bringing his sword around for a vertical slash. She blocked easily, growing a lazy look in her eyes. The mazoku knocked the sword out of Zangulus's hands and hit him with the backside of her blade, causing him to come down.
Fairly easy. What was that? She recalled him being a little better than that. Was he that tired?
"H-Howling Blast!" Gourry shouted, looking unsure about what he was doing, but perfectly black and violet electricity shot out from the Howling Sword right at Sherra. Surprised more than actually hurt by the attack, she was hit back into the middle of the battlefield Lina and the others were fighting in.
"Ow... be a little more confident," Zangulus grumbled, rubbing the back of his head. "Damn, that hurt."
"You didn't have to let yourself get hit," Gourry half-scolded, handing the Howling Sword back to him and picking up his own weapon. "Better go after her."
Before they could even move, the two men realized that they and everyone else were somewhere completely different.
"I didn't get hit that hard," Zangulus complained slightly, getting back to his feet. "Or did I? Am I imagining a court room?"
"Unless I am too. Which kinda doesn't make sense, so I don't think so," Gourry replied honestly.
Lina frowned. "We're not imagining anything. I think we're actually in a blend of reality and the Astral Plane right now. I get the feeling that you decided to cause this, Xellos?"
"Oh, I couldn't do it alone. My Mistress gave me extra power to bring us all here, although Lord Dynast, Sherra, and Mr. Vrumugun didn't need much persuading," the Trickster Priest answered, opening his eyes half way. "With Lord Dynast weakened enough, he couldn't refuse. Naturally, neither could Sherra."
Zangulus adjusted his hat, having already sheathed his sword and taken his position near Sylphiel and Vrumugun on a natural protective instinct. "Great. So we're on a mazoku trial. Well, I'd say this just about tops facing down Hellmaster Phibrizzo..." he muttered.
"Very sharp, Zangy!" Xellos congratulated. "Yes, you could call this a mazoku trial. I wanted to call it 'Mazokourt,' but everyone else said that was just silly." A beat. "And all of you are invited to take the stand. One at a time, though. Don't worry! This isn't the first time humans have been here, so I'll explain when the time comes."
"I'm worried," Zelgadis said flatly. "Have they survived?"
"I won't lie: yes," Xellos replied smugly.
"Whether or not they are sane afterwards is another question," Vrumugun stated, his eyes settled on glaring at the Mysterious Priest. "They do not truly need to be involved."
Xellos's smile slowly grew about as friendly as an evil lifeform could get when being... evil. "If this is to benefit the both of us, they'll need to be here. I can't do anything about it except for giving you all information on our court and play both persecutor and defense. I'm the neutral zone."
"As you always are," Lina noted. "But I'll keep that in mind, Xellos. And I'll also keep in mind later that you're probably using us like game pieces. Again."
"Oh, you know you love it," Xellos teased with a giggle, closing his eyes. "Well, now! Get comfortable, all you humans, mazoku, chimera, and undead alike for Lady Deep Sea Dolphin as our judge tonight!"
There was a round of screams and confused expressions as the other demi-god appeared in her respected chair. She was very beautiful, having a nice sleeveless light blue dress on with a slit down the side, wearing darker blue hair mostly left alone aside from two buns on her head. She also had on silver bracelets. Despite such an appearance, she giggled cheerily and waved to everyone, mortals and mazoku alike.
"How did you convince her to be the judge?!" Sherra demanded, out of just surprise.
"It's amazing how chocolate satisfies Lady Dolphin," Xellos briefly mused.
Lina eyed him. "Must have been a bunch of chocolate! Isn't your master and her on bad terms?!"
"Actually, Lady Dolphin forgets half the time..."
"What would it matter? The judge does not do anything," Vrumugun quietly remarked.
Xellos hmmed. "True. Very true. She's like a supervisor and a critic here, but I think she'll be busy with her chocolate as we speak." He slapped his hands together. "You all can heal up and get ready; I shall be preparing. Don't bother escaping; as you know, mix of Astral Plane and reality and all. Already asked my Mistress to put up a barrier to keep you all in until it's over with. Ta! I'll return shortly!" He walked off. Dynast and Sherra were already away to their respective side of the courtroom.
"Somehow, I don't know what to think," Amelia admitted quietly.
"He should not have brought you all here," Vrumugun repeated angrily, glaring after the mazoku priest.
Zelgadis crossed his arms. "What do you know about the mazoku trial?"
"I know only of it. I have never been to one myself, although I have been told by Tiiba. I am not aware of many leaving this place with all of their consciousness intact, but that was enough for me to know that either I would have been drawn to the fate Lord Dynast wanted me to be in or I would be here. The last thing I would want for you all is to be included within my affairs."
"Don't even bother with that kind of speech, Vrumugun. You know I'd find a way to follow you even if we weren't brought here," Zangulus told him. "We're all involved one way or another. We'll deal with it and continue on. I'm not breaking my promise to Sylphiel, and no way in hell am I going to stop now."
Vrumugun's eyebrow twitched, leaving him quiet for a moment before he spoke softly, repeating his warning from before, "Just do not lose yourself. None of you."
"Mr. Vrumugun... I promise we'll find a way to make sure we all come out fine," Sylphiel said. "We'll all come out fine."
"I can only hope that you are right," Vrumugun told her in his usual monotone, yet there was a hint of concern in his voice. He didn't say anything else, eyes settling elsewhere.
What else could be said?
After the group had settled, Xellos came over to their table, beaming more than usual. No conversational words were exchanged, which insisted that the trial was beginning.
"Zelgadis Greywords to the stand, please."
The chimera didn't express anything, but mentally he was startled. Why him? As usual, he eyed the Trickster Priest in deep suspicion. Reluctantly, Zelgadis stood up and went to the stand, loosely crossing his arms.
"Please tell the court your worst memory available, preferably in details if you don't mind," Xellos requested cheerily. "Don't mind me; this is a usual procedure, used for everyone who comes to the stand. Everyone answers."
Sylphiel's eyes went to the floor. No wonder Vrumugun told them not to lose themselves. Although bad memories varied from person to person, more than likely all of them had one to speak of. And with a courtroom full of mazoku to feed off it...
However, everyone already knew about Zelgadis's enough that asking what was his worst memory was pointless.
Zelgadis narrowed his eyes at him. "My worst memory goes without saying..."
"Of course, of course. Silly me," Xellos chuckled. "Mr. Greywords, what is your favorite color?"
"...It used to be blue," Zelgadis replied bitterly.
Xellos nodded. "I see. Ah... well then, how can rocks be able to blush?"
Zelgadis sputtered and glared harder somehow. "Why should I answer that?!"
"May I remind you that you're under oath?"
"No I'm not," Zelgadis snorted.
Xellos laughed uneasily. "Oh, yes. I'll have to remember that for next time. Well, if you don't answer, ten thousand volts of electricity will shoot through your body!" Zangulus winced sympathetically at that thought.
"You never told us thaAAAAHHH!" Zelgadis found himself frying slightly. "Ouch."
"Just a test," Xellos defended himself. "We'll skip that question. On a more important note: what kind of stuffed animal did you sleep with?"
"How's that anymore important?!" Zelgadis demanded before he was fried again. "Ow. ...It was... a bunny."
Xellos smiled happily. "What color was it?"
"..." ZAP! "Ow. Pink."
Dolphin giggled at that.
"What was its name?" Xellos prodded.
Zelgadis flushed. "Why should I tell that to the court, anyway?! What's this got to do with anything? Ouch. I'm still not telling! Ow. Owowowow--OKAY! I-it's name was... G..lew..k..."
"Say it loud, say it proud," Xellos ordered.
"Its name was Gogglewonk!" the chimera snapped. "Can I go?!"
Xellos thought for a moment, then nodded. "Dismissed!"
Zelgadis left the stand, grumbling to himself angrily. Deep Sea Dolphin waved after him, beaming almost as much as the Trickster Priest was, "Buh-bye, Gogglewonk!"
The chimera winced at the name and flopped down in his seat. "I'll remember to reconsider becoming a lawyer when I turn human again," he mumbled.
"Take it easy, Mr. Gogglewonk," Lina teased him.
"Knock it off, Lina," Zelgadis muttered.
"Awww, is Zelgadis Gogglewonk feeling cranky?"
"Lina!" he growled.
The sorceress giggled at him. "Take it easy, Zel."
Xellos dramatically wiped some sweat off his forehead from his hardships. He smiled, brightening up as he spoke for the next witness,
"Xellos the Trickster Priest to the stand, please."
The mortals fell over while Vrumugun, Sherra, and Dynast gave Xellos a very dark look.
The mazoku priest willed a sock puppet version of him to appear on his right hand. "My worst memory is when Ms. Amelia, Zelgadis, and Gourry protested for life and... positive thoughts..." Xellos cringed, but continued on with the trial.
He eyed the sock puppet threateningly. "Mr. Xellos, is it true that you happen to be a very dashing mazoku?! Well, yes I am. Why, thank you. Oh, you're welcome..."
"Ohhhh! How cute! Xellooooos! Can I have a puppet?" Dolphin requested as she leaned over from her seat.
Xellos bowed, as did the puppet. "But of course, Lady Dolphin! Here you go..." He handed the Dark Lord a version of herself.
"Yay! Dolphin is happy now..." the childish demi-god gushed, cuddling her new little friend.
"Back to the questioning... Mr. Xellos! Is it true that you also just happen to be the cleverest mazoku ever to exist?! Yes! I admit! It's all true!! I thought so... Mr. Xellos, you are dismissed!" Xellos threw down his sock puppet in a huff.
Zangulus shook his head, muttering, "I can't believe this..."
"It's Xellos. You better," Lina replied, eyes staring at the mazoku priest in near disbelief.
"Sylphiel Nels Lahda to the stand, please."
The black-haired priestess looked up, blinking quickly. She slowly stood up, but Zangulus got out of his chair as well.
"Don't you dare make her say anything against her will, Xellos," the Xoana ruler snapped at the mazoku. "She doesn't have to tell you anything!"
"Oh, she has something I think we all want to know," the violet-haired mazoku replied with a mischievous smile.
Zangulus only became more infuriated, but Sylphiel touched his arm lightly. "It's okay," she said quietly. "I'll be fine." He looked at her for a moment before sitting down, not looking any calmer.
Sylphiel let out a sigh and took her place.
"State your worst memory, please," Xellos told her.
The priestess lowered her eyes. "When... Hellmaster Phibrizzo brought not only my father back, but the entire city of Sairaag..."
"Very good, Ms. Sylphiel. Now, I have a very important question... one which has boggled me ever since we met when that dead dragon attacked you and everyone else," Xellos began. "What is the recipe for that fish that you made for lunch that day? I love it! I must know!"
Jaws dropped or just stares went to the priest again.
Sylphiel stammered for a moment before she smiled. "Oh, of course I'll tell you, Mr. Xellos. It's simple, really. You need a bit of lemon and garlic--"
"Can we get on with the actual trial?!" Zelgadis demanded.
Sherra snorted a little. "I, unfortunately, must agree. This is a disgrace to Lord Dynast, Xellos! You're wasting our time!"
Xellos scowled. "I'm only warming up," he defended himself. "And I really want to know! ...Very well. Ms. Sylphiel, do write it down for me?"
"I would be happy to," she replied, smiling softly. "I'm flattered that you like it that much."
"Your cooking is nothing to bat an eye at," Xellos complimented. "You may go back to your seat."
Dolphin waved her hand. "Make Dolphin a copy too, okie?!"
"Zangulus Montoya to the stand, please."
The dark haired swordsman muttered, but stood up and took the stand. "Going to try to take this seriously now?"
"Oh, I've been taking it seriously. I'll just bring it to a new level," Xellos answered. "Your worst memory please?"
Zangulus would have liked to tell Xellos to go stick his staff in a very inappropriate place, but the thought of being shocked didn't appeal to him at all. His eyebrow twitched in memory. "My latest and hopefully last visit to Bolum."
"Thank you very much," the mazoku priest said appreciatively. "Zangy, what's your earliest memory of Mr. Vrumugun?"
The cold mage noticeably tensed at this, but said nothing.
Zangulus arched a brow. "We were both mercenaries at the time. Four years ago, I think."
Xellos opened his eyes lazily. "Are you sure? Do think hard on the question."
"What're you talking about? Jeez, you're just wasting time again..."
"What exactly do you remember after your mother's death, Zangulus?" Xellos asked bluntly, his cheerful smile not quite so friendly as it normally was.
Zangulus didn't answer right away. He never really liked to recall anything before his mercenary days; pleasant memories always went downhill for him. Still...
"I will watch you. I will be watching for eternity."
He bit his lip. Who said that? Who was so cold that--
"Holy shit," Zangulus muttered, facepalming.
He had a bad feeling in his stomach. His gut was trying to tell him something important just happened. All importance led up to his mother as he did his best to take care of her and everything else since she got sick.
The strange cloaked man came to visit often, trying to tell Zangulus that she probably could die. But he didn't want to believe that.
Now... something bad happened. Mother was in danger, or...
When he went to her bedroom to check on her, she was deathly pale... no, she was a light tint of blue, actually... almost frosted... too cold for death. Did the illness do that?
Zangulus rubbed to bridge of his nose, thinking. Garnia wasn't supposed to have done that. That was far beyond unnatural.
Something or someone did that.
Vrumugun dropped her in shock, and upon hitting the floor she shattered...
"You killed her."
"Excuse me, Zangy?" Xellos queried with a blink.
The Xoana king stood up, his eyes on his best friend. "You killed her," he repeated. "What the hell did I do to you? You killed her!"
Vrumugun's eyes lowered to the floor.
"Son of a..." Zangulus almost started to go for his sword. Almost. Xellos's hand was immediately raised to signal him to stop. Mere instinct told him not to.
"I suppose that's enough for now. I think you just realized something now, didn't you, Zangy? Although Mr. Vrumugun is our witness and under our protection, living a limitless life, he is not human. I don't suppose you know what kind of powers he used to kill her?" Xellos spoke all too freely. "I'm sure you, Ms. Sylphiel, and Ms. Amelia recall Alfred's ability to raise those dead children to fight you all, and those tendrils."
Zangulus winced at that memory, as did Lina and Amelia.
"There's something Mr. Vrumugun never told you. When raised from the dead, each of them have a power, great or small. Aside from eternal cold, Mr. Vrumugun controls temperature of people, whether he means to or not. This he did to Sherra's sister on pure rage, and that he also did to your mother."
While the former mercenary seethed with anger, Xellos smiled again. "You may go for now, Zangy. We'll be taking a quick recess anyway..."
Slowly, Zangulus stood and left the stand, shaking. What was he supposed to do now? What the hell did Xellos want to accomplish by doing by that? Why didn't he ever realize...?
"Mr. Zangulus?" Sylphiel called softly, taking his wrist. He nearly pulled away, but didn't find he was capable of it in his condition. "Come on. You'd better sit down..."
Zangulus tried to thank her, but it came out more as a grunt. He was led to his seat and flopped down, holding his head in his hands, muttering to himself.
"Jeez," Lina breathed under her breath. "Vrummy, what the hell's wrong with you?!"
"Ms. Lina, I'm sure that Mr. Vrumugun should have a reason..." Amelia defended the quiet mage.
Lina stopped, then gave out a heavy sigh. "Things sure are getting tense... but you're right, Amelia." The fiery sorceress knew that Vrumugun was level headed. He had a reason for the things he did. This really needed an explanation and fast, knowing how soon Zangulus was going to explode.
Privacy was limited, and as much as Vrumugun would have wanted that, it was impossible in this room. He nodded very slightly. "As you must have figured out, Zangulus, your mother had received Garnia. I arrived as soon as I could, hearing Zefilia was infected with it and the Knight of Cephied could do nothing about it. I only managed to cure about twenty. I... truly am sorry I could not cure her, but I also did not want her to suffer. I asked for her permission to end her life and stop her hurting, as I know what it was like and I am sure Sylphiel could as well. She agreed and wanted me to do something important for her. To watch you because you would have nothing left after that."
"I will watch you. I will be watching for eternity."
"You never seemed to have remembered, but I had assumed that it would have been for the best. I could never ask for forgiveness," Vrumugun ended quietly.
Zangulus paused, standing up and approaching the mage. He stood there for a moment, glaring and holding up a fist. He narrowed his eyes down at Vrumugun for a moment before Zangulus caught him by the collar, yanked down his hood and put him in a headlock, using the said fist to give the cold man a very cruel noogie on his bald spot.
"Wow; I think you've been around Lina too much..." Gourry commented before Lina repeated a similar move Zangulus had just done to Vrumugun.
Vrumugun rubbed his head painfully, then flipped his hood back on, flushing. "You are not angry...?"
"Are you kidding? I'm as mad as hell!" Zangulus snapped. "But you just happen to have watched me for all my life anyway so what can I do to you? And you didn't do anything wrong. You did what I couldn't, and I probably wouldn't have the guts to do even today. You did what any human being would do, so Xellos is wrong in that way."
"Friendship triumphs!" Amelia beamed, lifting her fist into the air for a moment before looking worried. "Um... so far anyway... but we really haven't cleared anything. What're we going to do to make Dynast stay away from Mr. Vrumugun?"
Lina crossed her arms in thought. "We honestly don't actually know the spell Rezo, Dynast, and Halcyform had cast on Vrumugun, and as far as we know no white magic spell or any of my spells could cure him." She snapped her fingers. "Wait a sec! White magic! Sylphiel, Zel; what about the Phoenix Flare?"
"Whoa; hang on. Don't just jump to conclusions," Zelgadis pointed out. "If that link with Dynast is destroyed, Vrumugun would just drop dead there. That isn't what we're here for, obviously."
Sylphiel cleared her throat for attention. "Mr. Zangulus, I know it's a long shot... but, ah... well, come over here for a moment with me, please? I think I have an idea."
He stood there for a moment, confused, but obeyed. Zangulus was led off from the group for a moment, glancing back to them quickly. "What's the idea? I doubt we have much time left."
"I know, I know... just hear me out," Sylphiel said quietly before she started to whisper her ideas into her friend's ear.
"After the first round of our trial, it looks as though that these humans really are interesting... well, mostly humans..." Xellos began, and Zelgadis glared for the remark.
"In other words, we didn't get shit done," Sherra hissed at the mazoku priest.
Xellos smirked. "Oh, I do believe I did. We'll see the results soon enough. However, I would like to call Vrumugun Migel to the stand, please."
The mage stood and took his place. Before Xellos could say anything, Vrumugun spoke very calmly, "I cannot choose one memory as there are too many to really say is the worst."
"Naturally," Xellos agreed. "Mr. Vrumugun, how many times have you encountered Lord Dynast and Sherra?"
"I have not been able to keep the count, but... as you probably know, enough."
"Fair answer." The mazoku priest smiled slowly. "Were you ever alone with Sherra?"
The general flashed an angry look at both of them. "Yes," Vrumugun replied, keeping from eye contact.
"And what happened?"
Vrumugun was silent for a moment, then spoke again. "She offered to kill me."
Dynast lifted a brow, eyeing at his general. She bit her lip, narrowing her eyes and kept from looking at her lord.
"Did she explain her reasons?" Xellos wondered outloud.
"...Not thoroughly, and even such matters are not my place to really say, although I do know that if she were capable she would give me worse than death." Vrumugun grew quiet.
Xellos nodded. "You may go. Sherra Flagoon, general of Lord Dynast, care to come up and join me?" He grinned at her. "And state your worst memory."
"I know the routine," the general growled, marching away from her seat. She eyed Vrumugun for a moment before glancing back to Xellos. "When he killed my sister." Sherra jerked a thumb in the mage's direction.
"All right; I don't think I need to ask as I'm sure Lord Dynast wants to know. Why did you offer to kill Mr. Vrumugun?"
"There was one thing my sister wanted me to do before she went with Lord Dynast to finish the job," Sherra began, "and that was to protect Vrumugun. I guess she expected to die one way or another that night." The general frowned. "Protect. Hah. Well, there was more than one way to do that. As much as I want him to be miserable for the rest of his eternal life, a promise is a promise. I was more than willing to kill him if Lord Dynast couldn't."
Xellos thought about this, then chuckled. "I see. Defying your own lord. That isn't seen often, is it?" He laughed softly. "Well, I think that Lord Dynast is a little more than angry with you right now... and it just seems that we're full of betrayals today, aren't we?"
Sherra growled.
"You can go back, Sherra. Take care," Xellos said cheerily. This was going better than he expected, and, if all played right, Lina and the others should have thought of something.
"Mr. Xellos... ah, I'm sorry to interrupt, but..." Sylphiel spoke up suddenly.
The mazoku priest grinned further. Perfect. "Go on, Ms. Sylphiel."
"We have something to propose to Dynast..." the priest said softly. "That's all right?"
He nodded. "If Lord Dynast will listen. Do go ahead."
The Dark Lord stood immediately, looking no angrier than he had been throughout the entire trial, although no doubt he'd do something about Sherra afterwards. "Speak."
Zangulus took over for Sylphiel. "Obviously, it's also been your link with Vrumugun that bugs you than just him being a living witness."
"Linked with a human isn't very popular, true," Xellos commented.
The dark haired swordsman ignored the remark. "Sylphiel learned the Phoenix Flare and that's our ticket to defeating the ringleader of this entire thing that started way back. I'm not an expert with magic; anyone could tell you that. But I do know it's an ultimate white magic spell, and if Sylphiel can do it, she'll remove the link with Vrumugun. In that case, if we do that, we want you leave him alone. I'm pretty positive living in ice isn't a great vacation for anyone."
"Lei Magnus could tell you that," Xellos joked a little. He was still ignored.
"How would you be capable of such a thing? I would not permit you to remove the bond as it would let him grow old of age and die. Letting him die is not in my contract, thus I am to keep him alive for infinity," Dynast reminded.
Sylphiel felt nervous. It wasn't exactly everyday that a priestess made a deal with a Dark Lord. "Then I would suggest that I place his bond elsewhere. If I took his link from you over to some other being as high as you, he should still be immortal and no longer bonded with you. Then will you agree?"
Dynast thought on this for a moment, even as Xellos popped up alongside Zangulus, speaking up, "And I would help as well!"
"Why would you?!" Zangulus demanded, scooting from the mazoku.
"As my Mistress likes to have an advantage over her equals, she would like Mr. Vrumugun very much alive and well to remain as a reminder to Lord Dynast of the major mistakes he has done, as the same to Sherra," Xellos replied. "So until the link is moved elsewhere, I'll do my very best to protect him."
"One final agreement," Dynast drawled. "If you three fail," he began, holding up an index finger at the trio, "then I shall be permitted to kill you and do as I please with Vrumugun's life--so long as he remains alive."
Xellos bowed a little. "Agreed, my lord!"
"Sylphiel?" Zangulus asked of her first. She nodded quickly, then he did as well. "All right; agreed."
"Then this trial has ended!" Deep Sea Dolphin squeaked cheerily. "Chocolate for everyone! Don't feel so glum! Yay; that rhymed except it didn't!"
As promised, chocolate appeared in everyone's hand before they all disappeared back to their original location, aside from the Supreme King and Sherra.
"D'ya think she'd poison these?" Gourry wondered outloud.
"You idiots!" Lina blew up at Zangulus and Sylphiel. "Making a deal with Supreme King Dynast Grausherra! What the hell is wrong with you two?!"
Vrumugun scowled as well. "I agree; why are you risking your lives for me like that? Your chances of success are all too slim."
"Well, you already know me; my reasons are purely evil and selfish," Xellos answered casually.
"I told you; you're my friend. Of course I'm going to do something about it. Besides, it was Sylphiel's idea," Zangulus replied.
"And about that Zefilia illness thing, I'm guessing the reason why my big sis couldn't heal anyone was because of the specific cure you needed to do it, right? Definitely freaky illness," Lina confirmed.
Vrumugun faced Lina now, raising a brow. "So you admit to her being your sister?"
Lina's jaw dropped. "W-wait... you know my big sis?! Agh..."
"Your sister's the Knight of Cephied?" Amelia gaped.
"Luna Inverse," Vrumugun confirmed. "Very... peculiar personality, but that is not important... Zangulus, Sylphiel. You two have no need to risk your lives for me like that..."
"Can't go back on our word now," Zangulus answered. "Best we can do is keep our promise. And I'm keeping my other one, too. I'm taking Sylphiel to Rahns now that this thing is currently cleared up. Like it or not, everyone, I made a deal and I'm sticking with it."
Sylphiel nodded in agreement. "Mr. Vrumugun, I know... we're not very close, but you're still my friend. I'll help you any way I can. I think I can do this."
"I guess I actually shouldn't be too worried here," Lina admitted. "Sylphiel's the girl who learned the Dragon Slave by just watching me; I think she can do the Phoenix Flare and fix your problem, Vrummy."
"Thank you, Ms. Lina."
"Of course, she can't cast a freaking Flare Arrow..."
The priestess laughed uneasily. "Ms. Lina!"
"Kidding," Lina assured her. "I shouldn't be worried. When we get you an enhancer for the spell, you'll be all set to go! And if you can fix that, maybe you can try to cure Zel!"
"Don't get ahead of yourself," Zelgadis said. "I'll be realistic here. If she can do that, I can't ask her to cast the spell again. It'll probably drain her for sure from what I read. It's like asking you to cast two Giga Slaves in one day."
Lina twitched. "Ah. Well, that's an exaggeration, right?"
"Maybe only a bit in power, but it does take a lot of energy, Lina. This spell can be used by humans, yes, but since it takes power from the Fire Dragon King, it was specifically for golden dragons," Zelgadis explained. "I couldn't ask Sylphiel to cast it again for awhile." He shrugged. "But, then... I am patient."
"Naturally. I guess it'd take awhile for her to regenerize?" Lina prompted.
Sylphiel nodded slowly. "Yes..."
"Stop looking at the 'what if's for now," Zangulus interrupted with a wave of his hand. "We'll live now and worry about it later when the time comes. Like I said, I have a few promises to keep. In other words, I think we should head off to the next town soon as we can."
Amelia leapt down from a tree suddenly, nodding quickly. "Mr. Zangulus is right. I think a snowstorm is coming in this way. We should definitely hurry!"
It came fast. The snow was up to everyone's ankles and only getting higher.
There was a brief pause by the side of the road. Zangulus brushed snow off of his hand, squinting through the flakes to look after his friend. "Vrumugun, what're you doing?" he called out to him.
"Please. Only a moment," the mage responded.
Vrumugun was kneeling in the snow before a grave. He bowed his head for a moment, eyes lowered. "I am not aware whether or not you can hear me... but I am sorry for everything. I wish I had listened to you. None of this would have happened, but as my friend tells me, we should live now and worry later. I am not sure if Sherra will live now Lord Dynast has discovered her slight betrayal... I know you loved her."
He touched the top of the grave, sulking. "I only ask this once that you give me strength to pull through this as I have much to regret. I had always thought that I would have to prepare for the silent, gentle death of ice, as it is subtle and not even I am prepared for it. Still... I have a chance, and I ask again to help me..."
He brushed snow off of his robe, returning to the group. "We will be nearing Rahns soon after the next town. I guarantee nothing good for you, Sylphiel."
She nodded a bit, her face falling a little. "I understand, Mr. Vrumugun." The priestess had suddenly grown a concerned look on her face as she observed the mage. "You have a tear on your face..."
Vrumugun frowned a little, feeling the small piece of ice on his face. "It must have been a drop from an icicle," he lied. "Let us leave..."
The group plodded in the snow. Vrumugun paused, looking back to Samantha's
grave. "I am sorry there was not an eternity for us together," he apologized
softly before moving on with his companions.
---
As any good hearted series, this is to be continued in...
"To Rahns! We're There At Last!!"
...where some really creepy things lurk in the mists, and Zangulus
will have to definitely decide what to do about Sylphiel when this entire
thing is over. And then there's Sylphiel's aunt...
I have to admit. The Sylphiel, Xellos, and Zelgadis bits in the trial were mostly due to my brother. Thanks, bro! Gray Buster is a spell that can be used to cool a magic-using person's body, so I figured it was possible to inverse it. Hah! Inverse! Haha... um... sorry. Horrible pun.
---
Alba Aulbath
berry@adelphia.net
