hunt6

The Hunt: Part 6


-ZibbelCoot

Disclaimer:
All Escaflowne characters, places and such are ©1996, ©1998, ©1999 TV Tokyo, Sunrise. English adaptation ©1998 AnimeVillage.com and the dub version they tried to pass off as anime belongs to Fox I guess. However, Zorya Pele, Syrun, Galese and the Celet group (yes I'm too lazy to type them out) are my characters and I'd appreciate it if you ask me before using them. Also the song (the english and translation) is also mine so please don't use it without asking!

Author's notes:
Same as last time, happens 2 1/2 years after Escaflowne: A Girl in Gaea.
It took me five parts but I finally got Dilandau to feel something for Zorya. From here it'll just be a snowball effect...possibly a bit out of control and being chased by a pyromaniac with a flame thrower but a snowball effect none the less. Again, thanks to everyone for the reviews and input.
And enter the fanart contest, come on, you know you want to...




Hitomi sat in the plane's seat sedately. Yukari was on her left, which allowed her the window seat. A soft sigh escaped her lips as the stewards went up and down the aisles. Why her? What was so special about her? I'm the goddess of wings...
Hitomi pulled her eyes away from the back of the seat in front of her. She didn't want to go back to Japan. The fire wouldn't follow her. Sad green eyes were reflected back on the lane's small window. The dark blue water far beneath the plane reflected the sun's golden rays and Hitomi was hypnotized by the rough pane of glass reflecting in light in fractal patterns...
All around her the plain disappeared, the fractal light patterns and water surrounded her in the blink of an eye. Hitomi blinked, and watched, then suddenly remembered where this had happened last. She stood up slowly, the light reflections brightening and darkening with each step she took.
Hitomi doubted that if given an eternity she'd be able to take in every facet of this sphere, every flash of light and every reflection in the water. Reflections? But how can there be-? Hitomi took a step towards one side and watched as four dark shapes surrounded a being of light. A humming sound reverberated the walls of her world and Hitomi spun around hoping she wouldn't see it again...
One section of the reflections smoothed out partially and one image filled it completely. Zorya was alone, Hitomi screamed again as dark shapes appeared from nowhere and dragged her into the darkness. The humming began again and Hitomi turned, wishing for it to be over. It was just like when Sora called her, only she didn't see the god of war anywhere...
The next wall had a vision of Zorya on it as well only this time a blade coalesced from the darkness behind her and struck blindly. Hitomi recoiled as the blood flew from the watery glass wall and onto her clothes. She looked up just in time to see Zorya fall to the ground, a dark red shape hiding in the darkness.
The humming began again louder this time and Hitomi could almost make out the words. Was that the song Sora had sung? She was almost sure of it... For a final time Hitomi turned and was greeted with what she didn't want to see. A dark hulking shape lay on the horizon of the final wall. The shape of an angry god... The mass of destruction sprouted wings and Hitomi took a step back, wishing- no, hoping that it would obey her will. So distracted by the image Hitomi nearly stumbled over a body behind her. Help me, the girl sputtered, blood running down her chin.
Hitomi looked up from her friend' and saw him standing there. The one who had hurt Van! Goddess of wings, your time has gone, he cackled. Everything around her began to glow a bright white and in an instant was gone. She blinked her green eyes several times, trying to find them again. That had been Zorya... hadn't it? And wasn't that one of the black dragon clan? Oh Van... what's going on? her soft voice echoed off the hollow sphere's walls.
The voice called to her and Hitomi turned, trying to find it. All around her the world of light and water shook then collapsed, throwing her into a dark void...
Hitomi! Are you all right? Hitomi's eyes shot open and felt Yukari's hands on her shoulder, the shaking gradually stopping.

You fell asleep and the plane's going to land. Come on you have to buckle your safety belt- Hitomi nodded mechanically and went through the motions while her mind dwelt on the water and light dream. She'd seen Zorya there... she'd seen the other dragon that Van had fought too. But what about those shapes? What's going on?



Dilandau led his dragonslayers down the city's main street, people cheering on either side, welcoming home victorious slayers and soldiers alike. Unlike the young men marching behind him, in the ranks of the soldiers, Dilandau was not searching the crowd for a face. If he looked anywhere but straight ahead he was sure her face would appear.
Celena's words continued to rankle in his ears as he marched forward, his charger's head held high as well. She saved your life... You owe her... his brows forked downward for a moment, remembering the instant those words had simply formed the torment in his mind. He could not end the hunt now, not until his debt' was paid. The cheers of young women rang high in the crowd today, their lovers and prospects returning home.
He grinned, a cocky smile that did not resemble any smile he'd ever shown the world before. His slayers would expect to have fun tonight. And who am I to deny them that? As long as the bitches don't try to pull them from my forces, there's no harm in it.
Besides, he'd be busy as well. Dilandau glanced upwards, his eyes on the castle of Waesir, the center of Celet. Where was she in there? Were her dark eyes watching them from a window... was she watching him? The prey will never become the hunter, you're a fool if you believe you can outsmart me girl.
The crowd continued to roar even as he led his slayers through the imperial gate, ahead of the army's commanders.


Zorya tried to keep up with the fleet footed princess as they dashed down another hall. How can she run in that dress and those shoes?! Zorya tugged at her sword's scabbard which was held loosely at her waist. She may have finally adjusted and adapted to the sword's weight but she still wasn't used to the armor.
A dark blue and dark green colored breastplate, fitted specifically for her, covered her front while thick darker blue pants and dark blue boots completed the look of both advisor and body guard. Princess! We can't just run in there, she half hissed, half shouted to her ward'.
The princess stopped and looked back at her, impatience written all over her face. I will not miss their entrance! Hurry up! she hissed back.
Zorya shook her head, there was no point to them looking flustered as if they wanted to be there. If she'd learned anything in the past few weeks it was that the princess was correct, and the king's advisors did want to discourage her from anything that could possibly weaken the nation at large or disrupt her being. If placed in the same situation Zorya had a feeling she'd be acting just like the princess, which unnerved her more than their uncanny resemblance. You'll only excite his advisors and you know that, Zorya said bluntly as she approached the princess, the guarded door mere feet from them.
You're getting as bad as Celena. I can do what I want-
Within reason. Now, I'm supposed to stick close right? Which side and in front or behind what? Zorya whispered as one pair of guards bowed their heads while the remaining two opened the throne room's double doors.
Stick to my right slightly behind. Don't get lost in the hand maiden group or they'll usher you off into some god forsaken part of the castle. Zorya nodded, her right hand resting lightly on the the hilt of a sword she hoped she wouldn't need to use. Look to the left, see them? They're the women hoping to move out of their caste and up into the castle's social circle. It'll be amusing to watch them when the commanders make their appearances. Of course it'll be impolite to laugh out loud, Galese nearly snickered beside Zorya.
How long will this last?
As long as it takes my uncle to congratulate and give them gifts. I hope it doesn't take too long, Galese replied softly, taking up a position to the right side of the throne close to the king in a sea of people; who thought they were important enough to be close to the king. For a moment Zorya was reminded of Beowulf and the pages and pages of gift giving and congratulating each side did. Oh please don't let this place be like the story! Please!
Be calm.
Zorya's thoughts dissipated the second she heard the voice. She had to trust it... believe it. Besides, what could go wrong here? She didn't see the smallest lick of flames anywhere in the throne room as sunlight beat upon the stone walls and floor. She breathed a sigh of relief and relaxed her posture, her armor shifting slightly as she did so. I need to remember to ask Cerel why it has to be so bulky, she thought uncomfortably as it shifted again.
Here they come, Galese barely breathed. Zorya barely caught the tone in Galese's voice and had no time to question her as the throne room's main doors were thrown open. As Galese had predicted the handmaidens and servants whispered excitedly to each other as the first men walked in. Zorya's face went pale as the first strode in, his armor bloodstained and hair ruffled. It wasn't all that horrible to look at however, as he carried an air of power, respect and fear about him. He was untouchable, even to the king.
In followed his loyal minions, men who probably swore their lives to him years ago. None stood quite as straight as he did, none had the General's confidence, his arrogance. The girls were giggling now, the loudest being silenced by the middle aged women who must've held some rank. Zorya? Zorya! Galese hissed, bringing Zorya back to down to Gaea. I can't believe he thinks he's better than the commanders, the princess whispered again.

Look at him! He brings the slayers in ahead of them too, though the princess' voice dropped off again. The silver haired commander passed them without so much as a nod to the princess. Zorya took her eyes from him and watched the princess. The girl's hand were balled into fists, outraged at how she'd been snubbed so publicly.
Zorya warned, her eyes going back to the crowd of men that were steadily filling the room.
But he just- Galese's rant was cut off as not one but four the dragonslayers half bowed to her. The closet one to them was the first to bow, his ice blue eyes framed by dark locks. The others Zorya simply assumed were Dilandau's next in command. Once the four had bowed it seemed like the other were obligated to do so.
Korent, is there a reason you just bowed to them? Dilandau's sharp voice made both the princess and Zorya cringe. the dark haired lad gave them the barest of smiles before facing forward.
Lord Dilandau is it wrong to bow to one of the people who honors us in the parade? Zorya watched Galese out of the corner of her eye and could only watch as the princess began to turn pink.
Dilandau said curtly, though he made no move indicating he would bow. the name was cold as it rolled off his tongue and Zorya could only guess the slayer would be reprimanded later on. The slayer's eyes went to the floor as he rejoined the ranks and Zorya followed him. Why did the princess react that way? Could she- Zorya's thoughts ran cold as her eyes suddenly met his. Why was he still standing there? Didn't he have to go and see the king?
Dilandau's gaze was enough to unsettle a warlord, let alone Zorya. She took a tiny step back, her fingers clenched tightly around the hilt of the sword. Please... please don't draw... please... He blinked and the tension lessened though not by much. he finally said. His lips turned up in a cruel grin as he spoke.
Zorya was silent, her hands trembling. She knew he was going to draw his blade. she knew it, she could see his hand going to the hilt of his sword...


Kill him! Kill him! One sorcerer hissed frantically, his eyes closed. Yes, we'll be rid of those meddling-
The sorcerer did not respond to the voice, but did react to the sharp slap across his face.
How dare you! he stuttered, the trance and spell broken. Across from him Syrun opened his blue eyes. That brat dared to-
How dare you! The plans will be for nothing if you do something as drastic as that to her! Do you think the king will let her kill that boy, let alone will the General be killed by her? Garufo's silence betrayed his lack of thought and outright impetuousness. Paruchi will speak with you later, the other sorcerer snarled then turned. Syrun remained sitting in his corner, looking as innocent as a child might, though he was far from innocent and far from being a child And you! You are not to weave any spells unless two of us agree and are present. Is that clear?
Yes, sorcerer, his voice softer than normal. I shall correct the mistake.


Zorya's hand twitched on the hilt of her sword. Should she draw? He didn't look that menacing anymore but he still could... Be still, you are safe. You are safe, the voice repeated over and over. Gently Zorya lessened her grip on the sword, and looked away from the General's eyes. Something about them bothered her...


Dilandau watched, amused, as the girl relaxed slightly. He didn't see Celena anywhere in the room though he could fee her at the back of his skull. Just where are you hiding? Hm? She looked away then, as Dilandau continued to stare at her. He owed her...
With no more noise than an owl spreading its wings on the night air, Dilandau turned on his heel and continued up to the King's throne. General of the Dragonslayers, Commanders congratulations on your victory, the king said mechanically, as if it were all rehearsed before.
Dilandau suppressed the urge to throw an insult at the patriarch. It was because of his men that the victory had occurred, not the troops. Without me this country would fall. They're so weak, its pitiful really.
It was an easy victory for us, Dilandau replied nonchalantly, as if the little meeting were already boring him.
I suppose so, with your dragonslayers leading the attack and finding their weakness so quickly, the king continued. Dilandau allowed his eyes to wander. The king hadn't changed anything in the throne room this time while they were away. The princess may actually have more control than his advisors now. Which means she actually has power. A feast will be prepared at once, in honor of Celet's victory.
Celet's victory? If not for us Celet would've fallen, he chuckled. No one around him joined in his mirth however, no one evidently seeing the humor in it.
The king frowned, hatred beginning to show in his dark eyes. Go ahead, get rid of us and watch your precious country fall.
We appreciate the dragonslayers aiding us in battle my king, one commander said humbly, bowing his head as he spoke.
Then so be it, the feast will be in your honor. Dilandau's arrogant grin remained as the king forced out those words. We will begin at once, General.
That would be wise, Dilandau mused, one hand going to his left cheek. His eyes went from the king to the four standing to the king's right. The so called advisors stood in a seemingly disordered clump. dilandau knew better than to think they were as disordered as they looked. He recognized each of them, all of them the lackeys of Folken's magicians'. A sudden spasm of burning pain flashed in his left hand, causing Dilandau to look away from them.
I'll take care you when my hunt is done, Dilandau promised, his left hand balled into a fist at his side. You may take your leave to prepare General, commanders, slayers. The king's tone was still forced but Dilandau didn't care. He just wanted to leave, to be in the quiet solitude of his room.
He made no sign of acknowledgment to the king aside from the fact he turned to leave. his slayers waited patiently, ready to follow him out as they had followed him in.


Takaru walked next to Zorya, one arm around her shoulders as she trembled. He was right there Takaru! Right there... I thought he was going to pull out his sword and... and... and-
Shhhh, its all right now. I won't let anything harm you Zorya, he said softly, trying to sound sincere. Perhaps the time was almost right. Takaru took his eyes off Zorya to glance at the dried husk of a torch. Once it had burned brightly, and its time had come. Just like you winged goddess.
But he, Takaru, his eyes, Zorya mumbled. It was pure luck he'd found her exiting the throne room, the princess running off to some lesson with a tutor. It couldn't be coincidence, everything that happened was making it all too easy...


Latro peeked around another corner, this time rewarded by his quarry. He'd been searching since the victory parade and that farce of a recognition meeting in the throne room. he'd been just behind Dilandau when the whole thing happened. He'd seen the way Dilandau looked at her, saw the girl's fear.
Just wait Dilandau, I'll kill her for you, he chuckled to himself. The pair hadn't noticed him, or were purposely ignoring him so he took the time to draw his sword.
You filthy thief, getting this far into the castle without being beheaded, Latro growled as he took slow steps towards the two. The boy looked up, and Latro couldn't believe the look on his face. The mere servant, no doubt under the girl's spell as well, was glaring at him! I see you've pulled someone else into your web of lies bit-
Are you sullying this Lady's good name? the lack of respect towards the slayer wasn't missed.
I'm a dragonslayer, and unlike you servant, I can say what I please, Latro continued his sword up and ready to strike. The boy moved in front of her, blocking his shot. Out of my way boy.
You dare lay a hand on Lady Pele? I won't allow it, he stood his ground, the thick dark cloak hiding whatever weapons he might have. Weapons? He's a servant he can't possibly have any. Latro fixed the girl with an icy stare, which she took a step back as his greener eyes met her own. A haughty grin on his face, Latro intended to repeat and see the same effect on the servant. When his eyes met the servant's though, Latro froze. The boy's eyes unnerved him with their intensity, they were an almost perfect match for Dilandau's own.
I'll tell you what I allow! Latro shouted, trying to shake the horrible cold feeling in his bones. Something was wrong with the boy... horribly wrong. He brought the blade up, his arms ready to bring it down on the boy with all his might. As soon as the servant was gone, he'd deal with her.


Zorya could only watch as the two stared each other down. She wanted to draw her blade, to help Takaru, but couldn't. something was holding her back and she didn't know what it was. All will be fine, just wait.
I can't! He'll die! Zorya forced herself to concentrate to regain control of her limbs. She wouldn't let this happen. She couldn't let it happen...
Enough Latro! the cold voice cut through the air causing both combatants to freeze.


Dilandau had been wandering the halls, not ready to succumb to the ordeal of changing his armor just yet and preparing for the feast. Besides, finding Celena's latest hiding spot could prove to be more amusing than listening to drunk men congratulating each other. At least he had been searching until he stumbled upon the sorry scene. It was bad enough she was involved in it, but a dragonslayer as well. Dilandau called, unconcerned with running to the trio.
Afraid I'll defeat one of your slayers? the boy taunted, the hair on the back of Dilandau's neck bristled. Why do some people want their death wish answered so quickly, you're a fool. Instead of giving the go ahead that Latro no doubt expected to hear, Dilandau drew his blade and held it at his side. The hallway remained quiet though as Dilandau advanced upon them, his boots the only sound to break the silence. He watched the boy, cautious as the apparently defenseless servant drew a short sword from his thick cloak.
Master Dilandau! Let me show this boy what a dragonslayer-
Latro, I will not repeat myself, Dilandau replied in a low voice. From his current position he would not be able to stop Latro if he intended to ignore the order. He could however do something else entirely. A small swirl of smoke drifted up from the barren floor a fleeting glimpse of what was to come...
So you are afraid, the boy continued. For a moment he could see Zorya behind the boy, her eyes full of shock. Do you approve of his words? Dilandau let his eyes rest on her for a moment. Had she planned this? No, she wasn't clever enough to try and humiliate the dragonslayers.
Fear? Haven't you learned by now the dragonslayers fear nothing boy? Dilandau said, his eyes not leaving the boy's.
We fear nothing! Latro shouted and brought his sword down. Dilandau hesitated for a moment and watched as the boy blocked the strike unsuccessfully. The sword and the men were falling backwards and she was just standing there! A barely audible grunt left him as he sent his power at the two. For a moment time seemed to freeze, but only for a moment. After that brief second both his dragonslayer and the arrogant interloper were flung into the castle's sturdy walls; away from Zorya.
As expected she threw her hands up in front of her face, expecting him to hit her. Instead, Dilandau closed the distance between them until he was standing just in front of her. He couldn't look at her though, he didn't want to see those eyes.
Master Dilandau, Latro groaned from his slumped position at the base of the wall. This is my hunt, my debt, don't dare interfere again. His garnet eyes were far from emotionless however as he turned them to the boy. She feels something for him, doesn't she Celena?
Please Dilandau don't. Dilandau's eyes narrowed, his eyebrows forking downward as his face took on a look of pure disgust. Why did he feel this way when he looked at the servant?


Zorya looked between Takaru and Dilandau. The latter had a look of pure hatred on his face. That was not what surprised her however, it was the fact the look was not directed at her. she expected something, a comment, a murderous glare, a sinister smirk showing her that the end was near.
Nothing like that happened. He kept his eyes focused on Takaru, a grimace etched deep lines around his mouth. A mouth whose lips had not opened once since the psychic attack. Latro go back to the barracks, you're to remain there for the duration of the feast, Dilandau said cooly, never once taking his eyes from Takaru.
But Master Dilandau-
The wayward slayer did not dare question Dilandau now.
Her voice sounded soft, weak, even to her own ears. She was that afraid of him... she didn't want that voice or his sword turned on her as it had Latro.
I'm fine, he grunted, pushing himself off the ground. No thanks to you, he spat at the silver haired General. Zorya held out a hand to him, which he brushed aside, his own eyes locked with dilandau's. A little hurt, Zorya dropped her arm back to her side, confused at the sudden cold shoulder.
Engage in something like that with any of my dragonslayers again and you will regret it. Dilandau's threat seemed to enrage Takaru, though her friend remained still. The only thing that betrayed him were his hands, fists lightly trembling. Zorya opened her mouth to say something, anything to try and comfort Takaru but it died in her throat. What was she supposed to say? He'd tried to defend er but he had defended her instead.
she managed to get out as she put a hand on his shoulder.
Don't touch me, he warned, startling her. What happened? What did he do? Did I do something wrong? Dilandau walked passed them, heading in the general direction of the great hall where the feast would be held.
What the hell were you thinking? Why didn't you just stop Latro?! Zorya snapped, turning on her heel to face him. Dilandau stopped in his tracks. What is wrong with you?
That's one. Only once more, Dilandau murmured. zorya barely heard him, but didn't know what to make of it. Once more? What the hell is he talking about? Zorya stood her ground however even s he looked at her as he did before in the throne room. This time it was the garnet eyes that looked away, as their owner resumed his steady pace, leaving a very distraught pair in his wake.


Dilandau was not in the mood for festivities as servants and maids ran around the huge hall, refilling drinks of commanders and soldiers alike. The vino was sour on his palette, the boar over cooked and stringy. His dragonslayers didn't seem to mind it though and appeared to be enjoying themselves.
More General? a silky voiced maid asked him, her eyes fluttered as she spoke.
he said, blatantly ignoring whatever feminine wiles she was trying to use. He could care less if one more girl went around pouting because of his mood. He couldn't stand to look at them anymore because they all had something of hers; her eyes, her hair, her nose... And each time he saw it it infuriated and frustrated him. He'd paid back half the debt. Just once more and he'd be free to do as he'd please.
Oh and it wasn't bad enough that she'd been in the hall just an hour ago. Though the feasting of men gone to war was too rough' for the nobility to stomach. He tilted the goblet in his hand, the surrounding torch light giving it a reddish gold look while the violet liquid moved to his will. What a waste, this feast isn't even fit for the castle guards. Dilandau scanned the room, but there wasn't an advisor or nobleman in sight for him to torment. Where are you Celena? Why are you still here? To his displeasure she didn't rise to his bait and with a muted growl Dilandau finished off his Asturian vino. The jugglers and entertainers themselves had retired only moments before, their stomachs enjoying the feast as well. Wearily, his stomach slightly unsettled from the meal, Dilandau rose from his place. The remaining dragonslayers were seated, enjoying their food and drink.
Lord Dilandau?
What Cial? Dilandau's voice sounded slightly raspy from the sour vino.
What about tomorrow?
Be ready at sunrise to train. I won't have us going soft, he replied off handily. They all did some affirmatory noise or such as Dilandau passed them, eager to sleep in his room; away from everyone.


It's time Takaru, Paruchi rasped in the dark room. A fire was lit in one corner, Syrun directly across from it. Syrun allowed his pale eyes to wander and looked at the five occupants of the room. All four sorcerers had arrived as had their apprentice. I'm sorry goddess... I'm sorry...
Finally! I'll make it slow and painful to the-
No, simply bring her here. We will perform the sacrifice. Syrun kept his face blank, even as Takaru's face showed everything from anger to hatred at Garufo's words.
But I'm the one who gained her trust! don't i have the right-
Takaru, you shall be rewarded if that's what you doubt. Bring her here, kuaru said sedately.
What if she refuses? Syrun spoke up, his pale eyes back on the flickering flames. He would need to cast another spell soon, and the sorcerers would feed off it and use it to twist their prey into their hands.
Then kill her Takaru. We will be forced to make certain adjustments but she must be killed tonight, Foruma said this time. Takaru's face seemed to calm and a smile graced his lips.
I do as you command sorcerers, he said with a slight bow. While Takaru may not have seen the sorcerers' cool calculating smiles Syrun did. For a moment Syrun's mind was thrown into a panic, Sora's memory assailing every inch of his mind. It's a fair trade sister! A goddess for you... Sister... What are you doing here?
Syrun pulled his eyes from the fire, from his sister's face. Another person had entered the small room, their face as cold as the stone surrounding them.
I'm to lead her to you.
I don't need any help! Takaru stammered, and Syrun frowned slightly. The boy believed far too much in his own skill, while the sorcerers did not trust him in the least.
You will. Even if all the guards are in a drunken sleep that doesn't mean the slayers will be.
Takaru protested but the new comer was already taking a seat in front of Syrun, their eyes cold and heartless. He closed his eyes, already beginning to chant his song.
Takaru, go now before the feast is over. The boy stood there, as if not believing.
Lend me your power Syrun, spin a spell for me to trap the goddess, they whispered, pulling a hood over their head, their body wrapped in a black cloak.
Vi attede en lun. De simo fiden visse. De simo fiden omiese. Luminae si de cra-ru en nux. De cravi... he began to sing, his own thoughts concentrating on the general as the had instructed him to so many times before. Perhaps, perhaps he could just try and help her...


Dilandau shut his eyes, her face still haunting him. Too much wine... Gatty go throttle the vintner of the king's for ordering such horrible stuff, he mumbled, not noticing his second in command was nowhere to be found.
His stomach lurched as he continued on his way, his vision blurring and unblurring. Had the food been poisoned? No, he was sure it was just the sour vino, reacting violently in his stomach. Not going to laugh Celena? Why not? don't you enjoy seeing me in pain? He brought his eyes up to a dying torch, the color reminding him of her hair. Dilandau tried to shunt out the images but couldn't as he stumbled to a door, his hand pushing it open easily.
Dilandau slipped into the room unnoticed. He kept seeing her, everywhere he turned her face stared back at him. Her dark eyes, pleading to live, her hair the color of a dying fire... he shook his head violently, trying to displace the figments of his imagination. Not to mention Celena had actually followed his orders.
She was still in the castle, but far enough away to ensure her own safety. He let out a low curse as he bumped into something, a low table or something of that nature. What the hell is a table doing here?! I didn't put one here- Disoriented, his mind pulled up her face again, staring at him from behind the boy.
Get out of my head, he hissed, not knowing why his voice refused to rise above a whisper. His fingers found their way to his throbbing temple and with a frustrated hiss he pounded them. Anything to make the pain go away; anything to make her face disappear.
A noise rose from one end of the room, causing Dilandau's hysterics to halt. Who would be here? A door off to the side opened, a svelte figure barely illuminated by the other room's torch light. The darkness swallowed them as the door was shut and they walked across the room, ignoring or perhaps not even realizing he was there.
Ugh, I'm so sore, a feminine voice groaned. In the darkness Dilandau could barely make out her arms stretching upwards, rubbing one muscle after another. Dammit, why did Cerel have to pull that stunt today? I'll have that bruise for a week now, she muttered harshly now, her arms back at her sides.
He heard the rustling of clothes and linens, and could only assume she was at her bedside. Maybe that wine was a bad idea too. I'm so tired...
Dilandau's ears perked, his hand going to the dagger beneath his white over layer. I can end it all-
Stop it! she suddenly shouted into the darkness, causing Dilandau to freeze. Had she seen him? How could she? He could barely see her...
No... no more fire! I don't want to go! she began to cry. What the hell? A pale light began to fill the room and Dilandau barely turned his head to see the double moons rising. Double moons? The m-m-mystic moon! Why is it so bright!? Only when the goddess of wings arrived did it do that. No more fire, please no more, she continued to wail, and he could see her clearly now. The covers were peeled back, away from the waiting mattress, while she stood to the side.
She was wearing what appeared to be a large man's shirt as opposed to decent' nightgowns worn by most ladies of the court. Still she didn't look at him, even as she held her head in her hands.
Dilandau barely whispered, rising from his crouch on the floor.
We need you, come with me, a deep voice emerged from the darkness. Zorya gasped, whirling around, trying to find the source. Dilandau's own deep red eyes searched the room, waiting to find the threat himself. So many thoughts tumbled and whirled within his mind, confusion beginning to show on his face. Who would want to be in her room at this time of night? And talk to her in such a way?
G-g-go away. I want to go home but not in the fire, Zorya pleaded in the direction of the voice.
We need you. You are our salvation, the voice continued, agony beginning to dip into the tone.
No! Find someone else. I'm not her! That General even said so himself! she shouted back, her body slowly moving around the bed, further into the light.
You are her, that is why you are here, goddess of wings, the voice and its owner appeared out of the darkness. Dilandau stiffened his nerves on edge. It was that little prick from before!
she barely whispered, backing away further into her room. The young man continued to advance on her, one hand held out to her.
Zorya, we have waited for you for a very long time, please... help us.
Dilandau straightened up, his hand going to his sword instead of the dagger. He would not give the boy any advantages in this space.
Takaru, no I can't. I can barely be the princess' advisor. Can you honestly believe I can be a goddess? Takaru shook his head, Dilandau took a step forward.
Zorya you were to come willingly. I'm afraid they won't be pleased.
They?
I'll give you another chance goddess of wings, come with me and save the world.
Or you'll what? Her hands were clasped tightly, in front of her chest as she continued to back into the light, her bare feet making no sound on the rug.
Kill you, the intruder barely whispered as he ran forward. No matter how much training the girl had received, Dilandau knew she could not defend herself. Zorya tensed and was ready to run when Dilandau himself charged forward.
he growled, his sword thirsting for blood. The boy turned his head slightly, startled at the very least. However, the boy brought up a short sword in the time it took for Dilandau to blink.
You! How dare you be in a lady's room, Takaru hissed, trying to fit in character once more.
Ha, I should say the same for you, Dilandau sneered, putting more weight on his sword. The dagger wavered in the pale moonlight, fear beginning to creep onto Takaru's face. So you were a Hiwero spy, I should have known.
Tisk, tisk tisk general, I thought you would be more intelligent, Takaru's face broke into a grin, not dissimilar to his own, and the fear disappeared. For a moment Dilandau's hard gaze wavered, before he pulled on his arms, forcing Takaru back. As that happened Takaru slipped under the blade, bringing his other hand from his cloak. A new dagger reappeared in it and for a moment Dilandau cursed his stupidity. He should've known the traitor would have tow! It was too late however as his blade came down sharply, ready to still slice the traitor in half. Even if Takaru killed him, he would end Takaru's life as well.
Dilandau felt nothing for the death about to overcome him. why should he fear it? he, who had dealt it out to so many others. Death was his companion, and he believed in his companions, trusted them.
he barely heard Zorya shout and could only watch as her form shot towards them.


Syrun's whispered words became more frantic as he saw' what was unfolding. The goddess' time was up; she would die as would the boy. Once more Sora's face appeared in his mind's eye, pleading with him. No, sora I can't spare her... Sora, its worth it... Sora-
The room darkened around him as Sora's voice filled his ears. Its worth it sister...
Destruction is not the answer Syrun, Sora whispered. Syrun lost control as her words repeated. Sadness led to destruction, it would overcome them all... Don't strike! Do not strike her! Syrun's mind screamed suddenly to the boy. Perhaps he could save the goddess...


Zorya could only watch in horror as the two young men, men who she both now feared and respected, were thrown into a death stance. She knew neither would live... but she couldn't let them both die! Takaru deserved something worse than death, as did Dilandau.
Save us! Save him! Save him! You are our salvation but without a guide we are lost! The words forced her legs to move, and without thinking Zorya rushed forward.
She flung herself in front of him, and felt cold metal bite into her skin, rendering flesh from bone. She let out a cry of pain, her grey green eyes locked on his. What... what have I done? Why did I save him? Her attacker looked completely surprised, and withdrew his blade.
The world trembled all around her, her vision darkening. What have I done...