Hunt12

The Hunt: Part 12
-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, Takaru, Latro, King Kaele, Korent (as well as the places Celet and Hiwero) are my mine so ask if you want to use them. 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.
One author's note and I'll let you get on with the story. I was going to take a two week rest from this, just to recuperate and plot but I went to a concert and let's just say... far too many coincidences went on there for me to take a break. Okay just one more... I'd like to thank everyone for all their great reviews and e-mails (Mother Love, Sandra, Golden Eagle, Vanessa St. Cloud, Ami, Sere_Barton, Cyber_Shadow, ~Cerise~, Dragonstar, Pizazz, Dilandau-Sama's Warrior, Takara, Sabby, Cranberry, Kerenai, Dark Angel, Zee, reb_animegirl, Sulia Serafine, happyhyperlunatic, umm..., Sally Po, asdfghjkl;, chyrin, yukiko, Serris, anime fantasy, AnthyRose, Hikari no Tenshi, Sandain, Shakaku, Meliae, Arianna, Sidra Astro, Planeswalker, Kerochan, Megan, Valerie, dilandaufan and Sora-chan) because without you guys this might've stayed just an idea in my head.

Contest
http://homepage.mac.com/zibbelcoot/Contest.html




Van let out a strangled cry as he rode through the forests alone. It wasn't her... She wasn't Hitomi. She'd looked nothing like the goddess of wings, she didn't even have the exotic clothes that Hitomi wore. I was a fool. A fool for believing she would return.
He hated this, the pointless investigations into anything that might threaten Gaea's fate. Each time he was rewarded with nothing, though this latest one disturbed him more than usual. Van knew that girl wasn't of Gaea; she knew Hitomi. But why would another person from the Mystic Moon come to Gaea if nothing else but to change its fate?


The sorcerers glared at their apprentice, all of their eyes dark. Explain yourself, now.
I did not make the mistake, Refina did. Their cold accusing eyes did not change at those words.
But you told us the goddess was meeting that dragonslayer.
I was informed by someone else, its not my fault they can't tell the difference-
On the contrary it is your fault. If you wish to be one of us then you must make no mistakes, Paruchi said coldly. The apprentice cast their eyes downward, anger building within them. Be thankful we managed to salvage that opportunity. Kuaru, send a message to Refina that you will be arriving shortly. The latter bowed his head and took a step back away from the group. We shall save the goddess' blood for later. We can force Celet now.

Yes, She merely needs to marry that prince-
If he's sane, Foruma muttered under his breath and they barely caught it.
He will be fine. She shall marry him, joining Celet and Hiwero. That would be better as well, the goddess' sacrifice won't go to waste bringing them together. Beneath their cloak the apprentice seethed. They were intelligent dammit and wouldn't be blamed for the mistake of some incompetent observer! However, the General is becoming a problem. We may need to eliminate him all together-
What? I thought that Syrun had him under control, the apprentice shot back, forgetting their place completely. Their outburst only warranted another angry glare from Paruchi, Foruma and Garufo.
He has for now, but there is no telling how long that will last. He has the dragon blood, impure as it is, but he has it. You shall be concentrating on the king however. We need him to be completely off guard for when Zongi shall act.
Yes, I prefer my prey to be docile,, a voice rasped from the darkness. The apprentice didn't need to look in the room's far corner, next to the abomination to see a doppelganger emerging from the stone.
So, we shall enact the next part then? We may be able to control the goddess better if you subdue the king, they finally spoke, their mind spinning from all the information. The plan was moving faster than they'd thought and still the sorcerers hadn't shown them what they wanted.
Yes, perhaps you should come up with a new potion...


Zorya cursed under her breath as the pounding noise continued. Dammit leave me alone, she finally grumbled and waved her arm at the noise. Her hand hit a soft cushion, and the noise continued. Zorya wearily picked her head up, her eyes practically squinted shut. What the- no! No! I just fell asleep, she whined, her sleep deprived mind agreed with each word.
Oh princess, you still have guests to see off, an irritated woman's voice cut through her foggy mind.
In a minute! she shot back.
Princess! May I remind you of the company you're in, the voice said again. Zorya grumbled under her breath as she pushed herself up from her stomach. Her dreams had not been pleasant and it felt like she'd only closed her eyes minutes before. It didn't help that Celena was yelling at her from the other side of the door. Princess, I have to come in!
Zorya was given no time to react as the double doors were flung open. Light from the tall windows flooded the princess' room and she shrieked, temporarily blinded. Why did you do that?!
Princess, prince Selven is waiting outside to receive your send off; as well as several other guests.
You didn't tell me I'd have to do that, Zorya whined, her head aching to lie on the soft pillows once more. Celena's eyes turned cold and watched her, a look she knew all too well from Dilandau.

Don't call me that! Zorya finally shrieked. Celena, shocked at her outburst, took a step back. Her blue eyes did not melt however, and remained on the princess'. I'm not her, you said only for this-
I said it would be as long as celet needed. Celet needed it last night and today. The sorcerers will tell you when to stop.
Zorya threw the covers off of her, the words not sinking in. Sorcerers will decide... wait... why would they decide? Zorya looked up at Celena who's back was to her now. Why the sorcerers? Wouldn't King Kaele decide?
Celena stopped, halfway between the closet and the bed. He's been ill Zorya, you know that as well as anyone here. The advisors rule in his steed.
But you said sorcerers Celena.
That's what they were known as before coming to Celet. I forgot you didn't know that. Celena continued to the closet with a still half asleep Zorya behind her. So princess what shall you wear today? Celena asked with far too much cheeriness in her voice. Today is going to be a very bad day, Zorya thought with a groan as Celena began to pull out a variety of puffy sleeved, laced and frilly dresses. I'll be there to help you send off prince Selven but first I have a few errands of my own. All right Zorya? Now why don't you wear this, it goes well with your eyes, Celena continued and held out one of the dresses for Zorya to inspect. Zorya looked at all the lace and frills and nearly shook her head. Yes, today is going to be a very bad day.


Kaele's body shook violently as he coughed again for the millionth time that morning. Something was wrong, seriously wrong with him. He could feel the fog at the edge of his mind, the dangerous fog that could render him a captive of his own body.
Sire, your elixir, a demur servant said and held up a cup full of some foul looking drink. Something within him screamed not to drink it, to throw it on the ground. Drink it. Drink it and be well king. Kaele fought against the voice, or at least tried to. No matter how hard he fought however, the voice was just that much stronger than himself. How had he let this happen? How had he let himself be reduced to the strength of a newly born babe?
Kaele saw his own hand reach out for the chalice, saw his fingers curl around its stem. No... NO! Yes, drink and be healthy King Kaele, the voice rang sarcastically in his mind. His lips went slack against the cool metal lip of the chalice. He tried to close them, to spit out the foul smelling liquid, to drop the cup from his fingers; nothing worked. It poured into his mouth, making his eyes water and throat burn. It was horrible! If he didn't know any better he would think it was poison...
Aren't we the observant one. Now, rest for a while you have a meeting to plan and a princess to rescue. That is if you can remember that, the voice chuckled. Kaele felt his memories slip from him, felt himself lose to the voice again. Why are you doing this? He wanted to call out, to the guards by his chamber's door or the servant that retreated from him even as the voice called to him. Because we can. We need the goddess and you will put her in our hands. The king shuddered as another batch of coughs seized him. Goddess? He didn't know anything about a goddess! Unless it had to do with the Dragon War...
Rest well king, you'll need it. The voice left him, however that was not all that left him. A soft slumber shut his eyes even as his memories, of the voice itself and his lack of strength against it, fled him.


Zorya plastered another fake smile on her face. If she had to spend one more minute with Selven... And I do hope you'll come and visit Rowisan dear Galese. Why, our lush forests would bring out the green in your eyes.
We shall see prince Selven. After all, I do have certain obligations to Celet first and foremost.
And certainly one of them is procuring allies for your war, princess, Selven said in a hushed voice. Zorya did not like that voice, she'd heard it all night at the ball with men trying to sway her heart. Celena came out of the castle, off to her right and Zorya breathed a sigh of relief. She'd thought Celena left her to get rid of Selven by herself. For a moment Zorya toyed with how much trouble she could pull Galese into. No, I can't do that... just incase she doesn't come back anytime soon.
Prince, you'd best be on your way. I'm sure you want to reach Fanelia before- I kill you myself... Selven nodded then took her hand once more and kissed the top of it.
Then I suppose our stations will get the better of us this time Galese, he said smoothly and stood up. The winter's wind hadn't started up yet, though a few snow flurries continued to dance around them.
The dragonslayers will escort you as far as Waesir's outskirts. From there you're on your own, Dilandau mimicked Selven's tone perfectly, which ruffled the prince's feathers no doubt. A part of her was glad that Dilandau was just to her left, adorned in his normal attire. After all, what annoying suitor would dare stay another minute with one of Gaea's fiercest creatures only feet behind her? Of course, she was upset at the night before. the song... Dilandau holding her... Zorya couldn't remember how it felt exactly, she'd been so preoccupied with those words that preceded the voice and fire.
And why would I want to remember?! All that matters was the fire- Goodbye fair princess, Selven attempted once more and brought Zorya's wandering mind back to Gaea. He was waiting for something and Zorya struggled to remember what came next.
Fair well Prince Selven, Zorya replied and curtsied as he bowed. She could see Celena relax although she didn't like the look on Dilandau's face. Zorya rose from the formal curtsy and felt her false smile melt into a genuine happy smile. Free! I'm free! Dilandau or Celena must've picked up on her anxious mood and the General moved between the slow prince and herself.
This way, he said in a near growl as Selven still failed to move. Zorya waited until Selven was in his carriage, the snow pushed off the main road. He lingered for a moment more until Dilandau practically pushed the irritating prince into the wheeled box, two dragonslayers in front of it and two behind it.
Zorya's face beamed as the thing began to move,even as Selven popped his head out from the thick curtains to wave one last time. Eagerly Zorya waved back, thinking perhaps the more she waved would get him away even faster... Is that it? she finally asked and dropped her hands to her sides beneath the thick cloak she wore over her dark maroon dress. Normally Zorya would never have thought about wearing that color but with the onyx hair she could easily. Besides, it was better than the original dress Celena had selected.
Celena pulled out a piece of parchment from her own dark cloak and read over it quickly. Asturia left last night, as did Ezgardia, Cesario and Daedalus. Basram left this morning before Rowisan, as did everyone else. The only people I'm not too sure of is the duke of Caflown, a province in Fanelia and Basram's great-nephew. Zorya turned to face Celena, her eyebrows pulled downward.
Didn't I dance with each of them yesterday? One right after the other?
Yes, Basram's Lim had the bright red hair and Caflown's Juren had the pitch colored hair. Zorya for a moment was reminded of the strange visitor. He'd had black hair just like the minor duke...
They left early last night, Dilandau interrupted them and walked passed them to reenter the castle.
How do you know that? Zorya waited for him to answer Celena's question, not too sure if she wanted to hear the answer. Instead, Dilandau turned around to face them a strange smile on his face.
Oh, I made sure I saw them leave myself. After all we wouldn't want any of Celet's guests to miss out on its hospitality. I assumed you'd want the slayers to give them a proper Zorya didn't like the smugness or the tone of Dilandau's voice. Dilandau did not give them any time to debate it however, he turned away once more and walked in ahead of them for the warmth radiating from Celet's main castle.


Paruchi walked ahead of the other three into the throne room. Celet's other councilmen had not been invited on purpose, due to the sensitive nature of what was to be discussed. Kaele will want to keep face at all costs, and we shall use it to our advantage. We must simply wait until the right time...
It was already agreed between the four on which tactic to use. Each would speak at least once and keep the king from concentrating too much. By using that manner the king would be much easier to sway to their side. Especially since only the dragonslayer General, the goddess and the other advisor would be there. He made sure that his face was blank as he entered; there was no point to revealing their plan so soon.
King Kaele, he said in greeting and completely ignored the other three people in the room. The king bowed his head to them briefly then looked at the others as well, something that irritated Paruchi. It showed that their hold on the king's mind was weakening, but his weak movements showed their plan would soon be at an end; with them as the winners.


Dilandau watched the advisors, anger and disgust filling him. They were weak and gave themselves power by deceiving the king and Celet's other nobility. He shut his eyes with a smirk. That was not his concern however, not as long as he was paid.
We may have found a spell that could lead us to the princess' whereabouts as well as reveal the kidnappers.
What does this spell require? the king asked sedately. Dilandau opened his eyes, the garnet orbs on the four sorcerers. He'd never heard them admit to being able to weave spells before, not since he'd seen them under Folken's head magicians.
We have all the reagents your majesty save one, a dragenergist. Whatever side conversations that had been bouncing around the room stopped at that one word.
A dragenergist, the king said solemnly. his head bowed slightly.
Yes, with that we will be granted temporary use of-
I don't care what it is you'll be granted. There is no way we can procure one.
We can easily get you one, or two or ten of them. Or, have you forgotten what we dragonslayers can do? Dilandau spoke up. The four sorcerers turned to face him and for a moment Dilandau thought he saw them smile. He did not like it when they smiled, it reminded him of when they had helped revive the Alseides... It was his smile.
That is an excellent idea your grace, they will procure it for us faster than the normal guard, Paruchi said slowly, his eyes back on the king. Dilandau waited, one hand on the hilt of his sword, out of habit, the other loose at his side. He'd get to have some fun at last, and would finally be able to concentrate on something else besides her. Even now he forced himself to look away from her. There was no telling what he'd be forced to do if he remained cooped up in the castle for much longer.
No, that will leave the castle vulnerable to Hiwero attack. My informants have relayed to me that their army is increasing in size and moving out. I can't afford for anything to happen here. No, the dragonslayers will remain here and I will send a small troop of guards out for the dragenergist. Dilandau heard the words but refused to believe them. The king did not just refuse the dragonslayers their duty...
The sorcerers looked genuinely surprised at that, and one of them walked forward to speak again. My king, that may not be the wisest course of action-
I think I know what's best for my country first and foremost Garufo, the king replied darkly and brought a hand up to his forehead. Dilandau did not hide the grimace of disgust and anger on his face from anyone in the room. He wanted to get away from here... no, he needed to get away, if only for a few days.
Sire, they would help recover Galese as quickly as possible, his sister's soothing voice attempted to break the king's words.
There is no rush. Whoever has her has not made any demands as of yet which means she is not in immediate danger. We also have a Galese here. His hand pointed at the other woman in the room and Dilandau allowed his eyes to follow it, only to see Zorya's hand clenched at her sides.
I agreed to be Galese for the dance, not any longer than that! her voice was louder than it should've been and he watched as Celena put a hand on the woman's shoulder.
Zorya calm down-
No! Next thing you'll say is I'll have to be her until she's found. What if I'm called home? What if I don't want to be her? Dilandau couldn't pull his eyes from her, from her face. It wasn't her face completely, not with that horrid hair but her eyes... A green fire seemed to be brewing just below their surface ready to erupt...
Lady Pele, I'm afraid you don't have a choice. It has been quite some time since you were brought here and the likelihood of the phenomenon repeating itself is practically none, Paruchi said smoothly and calmly.
That doesn't mean I can't go back-
Another sorcerer glared at her, yes, this was why he hated them so much. What is it that you find difficulties with? Where else do you have to go girl? Nowhere so I suggest that you praise whatever god you believe in for keeping you here. You'd be dead anywhere else in Gaea for your impudence, Garufo almost snarled at the princess'.
another snapped and the sorcerer stepped back behind the leader. Not a word passed his lips however in apology to the woman. Dilandau's eyes narrowed at them. Why can't I kill them again?
Celena shot him a look before she looked back at her charge. Because Celet needs them. That's not true and you know it. At least let me show them their true places here, he smiled to get the point across. No! Don't do anything.
Dilandau's hand was at his side ready to act, despite his sister's frantic pleas. Lady Pele, it won't be for long. Trust us, we will get to work on the spell immediately, Paruchi broke the silence in way of an apology. Until then you mst merely act the part as well as you've done so far. All of Celet trusts in you Lady Pele, as do we.
He couldn't stand it anymore and turned around. Who better to end the meeting than the General himself? His feet carried out of the room quickly, his sister's protests the only noise he heard. I refuse to listen to anymore of their pointless chatter. Its not pointless they're making perfect sens- SHUT UP! He felt her recoil physically and his grimace lightened. At least he still had control of his own thoughts and could keep her out. The grimace gradually turned into a sharp line as he continued down the halls in search of his dragonslayers. Who would miss another advisor? No one missed those twits that dared to call themselves royalty.
The dragonslayer General smiled then, the smile that the sorcerers had given Kaele only minutes before. Besides, the king could not command him completely and if he wished to hunt a dragon...


That was uncalled for Garufo, Paruchi said slowly, as if trying to understand why it happened at all. Garufo bowed his head in shame.
It won't happen again.
That's correct. You shall remain in this room for the next week and keep an eye on Syrun. We're closer than we were before and I won't allow your loose tongue to jeopardize everything. Garufo merely nodded and Paruchi focused his eyes on the apprentice next. And you were supposed to-
Make a new potion, I did.
No, control the king. The dragonslayers must be gone for this to work.
Why must they be gone? It'll be just as easy with them here. All we need is the goddess- they insisted, their eyes going soft for a moment.
Do not let your emotions taint you! If you wish to continue then the slayers must be gone for the plan to work. Zongi? Paruchi looked over his shoulder and the doppelganger, as expected, was waiting for his orders.
Yes sorcerer?
Prepare to take an essence. I do believe the king doesn't have much time left, Paruchi chuckled darkly in the small room. Zongi nodded and took a step back, his skin taking on the hue and patterns of the wall behind him perfectly. The sorcerer then turned back to the apprentice, ho stood taller than before. And you... you must be ready for the sacrifice when it comes.
Of course master.


Takaru took a few steps around his room'. It was barely more than a cell, the straw just cleared away from the floor, a bed and chair the most recent additions of his furniture. He snorted in disgust, this was not how a prince was to be treated. You aren't a prince so why are you complaining.
I am one now, he replied to himself and stopped his feet. He looked ot the opening of the room, the wrought iron door was swung open but the bars remained as well. They don't trust me.
Why should they? You're a body thief! A bloody doppelgan-
Don't call me that! Takaru shouted, his voice not his own. Gods, why didn't he sound the same? He couldn't be a doppelganger...
Why not!?! You stole my body and now I'm stuck in limbo, in my own body!
Takaru whirled around, to face the one thing that decorated the barren walls. The looking glass looked innocent enough at first glance, that is to anyone but Takaru. He could see himself, his dark hair and bright green eyes but then he would see body itself... Takaru saw all too clearly that it was not his own. It was the worst however, when the reflection shouted back at him, especially when it called him a doppelganger-
You are! Now give me back my body and get the hell out! his reflection screamed at him from the other side of the glass. Takaru smirked, though his reflection continued to glare at him.
Perhaps I enjoy being a prince, have you considered that?
You've no right! Ricpen fumed. Yes, Takaru knew that was the prince's name. I need to rescue my country-
Hiwero? Oh please, that backwater speck on the map would've been eradicated sooner or later by some neighboring country. You should be glad the sorcerers decided to take it up for their cause.
Cause? Ruling Gaea is not a cause!
Rule Gaea? Oh no, you see they merely need all of Gaea to be together for their plan. Hiwero is the stepping stone to the rest of it, Takaru slipped, and regretted that the second his lips closed. Ricpen narrowed his eyes at him, his lips pressed so firmly together Takaru wouldn't be surprised if they melted shut. It does not concern you so i suggest you just sit tight.
Not until I have my body back, Ricpen said without moving his lips.
Fine have it your way, Takaru said angrily and turned around, away from the mirror but facing the bars. They don't trust you, their loyal servant for how long and they don't trust you. Shut up, Takaru growled to himself. He could hear the prince laughing, laughing at him! How do you expect to help them and be a part of the plan when they don't even trust you with my body? Hm?
Takaru remained silent to that question, his now aqua eyes focusing on the bars before him and the sounds of two women arguing in the background...


What the hell am I doing here?! Galese shouted in a very un-princess like manner to her captor. The woman smiled at her, a smile that could almost be identical to the dragonslayers' General; almost, it lacked his bloodlust and crazed quality however. Korent! Oh dear gods what happened?! Galese could barely remember anything, aside from being grabbed from behind as the blond had fought with her beloved.
It meant he'd lost. Galese cried when the the realization hit her but that had been hours ago and she had no more tears, especially none to show the woman before her. She'd thought he'd do anything for her, help her, guard her, duel for her; ultimately he'd failed her. Korent...
Well goddess, I probably should apologize for the shabbiness of the place but, I'm not going to. Why should I? After all you gods put us poor mortals through-
What in the Dragon's name are you talking about?! Galese tried to stand as she spoke and found her ankles free of any chain that might keep her here. The blond smirked but remained where she was.
Did you think you were invincible goddess? You certainly aren't if I managed to get you here without a single noise.
Get out! Its my body! Don't you dare scream at me?! You want this body in once piece then you'll shut up! a man's voice interrupted them from outside the hall. Galese's eyebrows went up, it sounded as if the man were screaming at himself.
And now he's up. Your bread and water will be in tomorrow, and I suppose they'll bring your sacrificial clothes with them, the smirk widened and Galese knew how shocked she must've looked.
S-s-sacrificial clothes? What are you going to do to me!?
Oh, only unite Gaea to unleash the powers of the gods. Of course you wouldn't want to share would you wingy-poo? I can't understand how you were given anything whereas I am far more fitting to be a goddess, Refina preened herself. I mean, look at you. Such horribly pale skin and that awful hair. I bet you're the goddess of ugliness, not the goddess of wings.
Galese's blood boiled the second the first words slipped from Refina's lips. She would not be insulted by some blond whore! Before she even knew what was happening, Galese struck out with her clenched fist. It made a sickening noise when it made contact with Refina's cheek, almost as terrible as the wail that came from the armored girl. You bitch!
She didn't see the girl's fist come at her at all, only felt a great pain from her stomach and she fell to the straw covered floor, coughing and heaving. Don't you dare touch me! I'll slit your throat myself instead of waiting for the go ahead, Refina threatened her and Galese tried to focus amid the pain she felt. So I'm going to die. But she said go ahead didn't she? That means I have time... I can try and escape... Korent where are you?!


Zorya absently scratched at her forearm where the dress' sleeves turned to lace. She didn't like being Galese, not at all. You have to be her until she's found, she imitated the sorcerer's voice flawlessly. That's bullshit, I don't need to be her every single second, she grumbled to herself softly as she passed a guard.
This is not good. Definitely not good. I won't be her! I told Celena that so why doesn't she even try to help?
Zorya let out a soft exasperated noise and let go of the front of her dress. The soft silk brushed the stone floor with barely any noise. I can't stay here, not as her. She looked to her left and was greeted with a pane of glass, the winter scene outside inviting and forbidding at the same time. The dragonslayers don't seem to think the guards can even kill a dragon quickly enough.
She kept her eyes on the scene outside; a flock of birds flew passed the castle, presumably south. Why can't I just go home. Why can't I go... Her grey-green eyes widened for a moment, the thought repeated in her head. Why can't I go... Why can't I go and get the energist? Yes, it could work... she was trained by Cerel to try and protect the princess- It doesn't matter if he didn't finish my training. I bet I could do better than any of the guards Kaele tried to send out.
A playful smile tugged at her lips, giving her a look very much like Galese. Yes, she could get away for a few days and be back before well... before she got into any serious trouble. She picked up the front of her dress once more and began to walk away. Of course she didn't know the first thing about killing a dragon. I'm sure I can get it out of one of those slayers though. Now, which one was Galese sneaking off with? she chuckled to herself and continued down the hall; her eyes searching for the familiar dark armor of a dragonslayer.


Latro wandered the halls, hs mind not tumbling in five different directions for once. A faint smile was one his face. Why shouldn't I smile? She's gone and Dilandau won't be concerned with her anymore. He paused in the hall, and cast a glance to his right.
The dismal scene that Zorya had looked at just before him, didn't look quite so foreboding. In fact, it looked perfect with the sun beating down on the pure snow and the birds in the sky. Latro's smile grew and he didn't try and hide it. Yes, everything was finally going his way...
Latro Onis? Latro nearly jumped back at the soft voice. He hadn't thought anyone was there watching him... He turned his head to see the voice's owner and then took a step back. The princess stood no more than maybe five feet from him, a smile on her face. I thought she hated us... Ah it is you, I thought I was mistaken.
he said, nothing else coming to mind. Dilandau didn't show the royalty any respect, so should he? He took another step back, the smile steadily fading from his face, I have to get going-
Oh please, don't leave so soon. I have something to ak you, if you'd be so kind as to answer it, she said with a smile. Could he disobey the princess? Was that like disobeying Master Dilandau, especially after the General had paid so much respect to the woman at the ball? A flare of jealousy rose in him at the thought of the dance but, he was calmed by the fact the thief was gone. Latro? May I call you that?
Yes highness, he replied more out of confusion than anything else. What the hell was he supposed to do, leave her or answer her questions? She took a few steps forward, and gave the window before him the barest of looks before focusing her eyes on him, her grey-green eyes.
Well you see I'm in a bit of a fix and I knew a dragonslayer would be able to help me out. I just had a little meeting with my uncle and his advisors and the subject of dragon slaying came up. Now, the advisors believe the castle guard can kill a dragon more efficiently than a dragonslayer. I disagreed of course, you dragonslayers are aptly named, am I correct? She batted her eyes at him and kept that smile on her face, only it wasn't the same smile as before.
I-I-I-I well I guess, I mean yes, we've all killed a dragon before, he managed to get out. No, he didn't like how this was going. She was getting too close... no one was ever this close to him unless the General was punishing him...
And well, I said you would know the proper form and technique of killing a dragon. Lady Albatou insisted Gatty would know better. I hope you can prove her wrong. I mean, you are the more experienced dragonslayer are you not? I'm sure you know just the right way to skin a dragon, she practically cooed to him. Latro felt a bead of sweat run down his cheek as he tried to take a step back but the princess followed him. What do I do!? Oh shit she's not like the thief, I can't just kill her or Dilandau will kill me for losing the agreement with Celet... I'll just tell her and she'll leave...
No, you don't skin a dragon. It depends on the type. Whether its a Land, Air or Water dragon, he replied and took another step back. This time his armor hit an immobile stone wall and the princess followed him.
A land dragon, she said you should cut the tail first, the princess continued. Latro took a deep breath and tried to remain calm, if any of the others saw him like this- even if one of the king's advisors saw him like this Master Dilandau would throw him out of the dragonslayers for good!
No, you'd wear it down and then cut the fire lungs. Right after they've released so that you don't get burned, Latro supplied, hoping vehemently that she'd leave him alone. The sound of boot heels on stone threw his mind into chaos. Oh please don't be Master Dilandau... please!
However Latro saw red peek out from around the corner along with a flash of silver just as the princess took another step towards him. Why thank you Latro, you've been quite helpful, she said softly the smile turning slightly seductive. Latro fearfully looked from her to the now fully visible General of the dragonslayers, and he did not look pleased.
You're welcome princess, he managed to choke out, his eyes still on Master Dilandau. The princess let out a giggle and Latro nearly jumped three feet in the air when he felt her hand gently caress his cheek.
Latro you should relax, slow down and enjoy life, she whispered close to his ear before finally pulling away. Latro paid her no notice however he was focused on the General, more specifically at the horrible look on the General's face. I should've left her here...


Dilandau felt his cheek twitch, not once but, several times. She, Zorya not the princess, was extremely close to Latro or all people! He said nothing, even as the most horrible torturous devices and practices sprung up in his mind. he managed, his voice softer and calmer than he felt.
Zorya turned around, a smug little smile on her face. So, she hadn't noticed him while she was occupied with Latro... Why dear General, how are you?
Latro, training room, now, he forced himself to speak softly instead of scream. The dragonslayer backed away quickly, Latro's eyes never left his own. Dilandau broke that contact, a grim smile pulling at his lips. Oh he'd make Latro suffer soon enough... Suffer for what? What in Alseides' name went wrong with this? With my hunt?
Dilandau focused on her, the anger and the other feeling still running through his veins. Why? Why did she infuriate him so much and yet he couldn't kill her? That's it no more waiting, I find out NOW! He took a few steps forward, Zorya still with her back to the wall and facing him. He could hear the anger in the simple word, the frustration and everything else. Do not belong here.
I could say the same for you General. Now if you'll excuse me-
Don't try that here, I already know your little game. What do you get out of this? Wait I know, you want to be Queen of Celet, is that your goal?
Zorya's eyes narrowed at him, the smile gone from her face. I wouldn't abuse what power I have, unlike you.
Me? I'm not trying to be the king-
There would be no point, all your subjects' would flee to another country out of fright. Imagine, a dragonslayer as king! she mocked him, the hallways still clear of anyone else. Dilandau took a few more steps towards her, but to her credit she did not back away. You think you can stand against me? Do you honestly believe that you can win against me?
The point is I am not. If I see you near any of my dragonslayers again-
You'll what, kill me? I'm beginning to wonder why you haven't already, she said flatly but met his gaze with her own. Why am I even here? She's not going to listen... Or are you afraid a few dragonslayers will switch over to our side like Korent?
Your side? My dragonslayer would rather die than ever side with you, he spat back and took another step. He was barely paying attention to how close they were, he had to concentrate on the words, on her voice. If he lost focus he could lose it all and forget why he was even talking to her.
Then why are you still talking to me? her voice wasn't as forceful as before. Dilandau froze, as if suddenly aware of how close they were, of how close he was to her. Just answer... answers... answers... He shook his head to clear it, and tried to focus again, he wouldn't give in to her Siren song! Dilandau took hold of her arms, not ready to let her escape like before.
Why? Why can't I- his voice took on a slightly crazed tone, but that was dulled by how softly he said those words. He kept his eyes locked on hers, and refused to be ignored now. There were no distractions to pull her from him now, and he'd finally get his answers.
What are you talking about? Zorya said and tried to pull from his grasp but he held firm.
What have you done to-


Kuaru held the object in his hands, careful not to drop it. Of course with the elder councilman jabbering about something next to him, he wasn't sure if it would remain intact. Please be quiet, I can't lose my concentration and drop it. It's for an important spell, he said fiercely and hoped the man would shut up. It failed however and the man continued to talk, about the weather, about how well Galese's ball went. If only you knew...
They turned to the left, the library his destination to ditch the man that was glued to his side. Syrun! Do something! What is... Is that the princess?! the disbelief in the man's voice caused Kuaru to look up from his cargo.
It was the princess, or at least her substitute, and... The General?! The dragonslayer General!? Kuaru's eyes went wide, his jaw hung open slightly at the sight before him. The elder councilman seemed that was the time to finally shut up. His fingers lost the grip on the precious object and it fell ot the floor with an unmistakable crash.
Latro rounded the corner and actually paused, not immediately following Master Dilandau's instructions. He touched his cheek, just where the princess touched it. He couldn't remember the last time a girl, no a woman, had touched him. It was strange, at first he was completely consumed with being the perfect slayer, with being Dilandau's ideal.
Now however... He touched his cheek again, suddenly wishing she was still there and touching it, touching him.






So, how was it? All comments, flames, and praise go to Zibbelcoot@aol.com
Please? I like email, really I do.