Part 17: Fallen Heroes

The Hunt: Part 17
-ZibbelCoot


Disclaimer/Claimer:
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/Ricpen, Rihae, 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 before, happens 2 1/2 years after Escaflowne: A Girl in Gaea.
A real author's note! Wow! Anyway a dragon nymph is an immature dragon between the stage of hatchling and young adult. I made this up and with all the nymph stuff already in Escaflowne I figured why not. Besides for the water dragons it sort of sounds right. Flashbacks are dispersed throughout this part so you can get a better idea of what happened in the past and why the different characters are the way they are.
The line you toy in blood I borrowed from Shakespeare's Hamlet. If you know what the line means then, kudos to you! Otherwise I'll post what it means next chapter.
To enhance the mood for part of the story you may want to get the Crazy for this Girl MP3 and play it when you read this sentence, Zorya sat behind him, the pouch with the dragenergist at her hip. Why? Because when I wrote it that song started playing and it fit. Its not required, just an enhancement to the story.
Oh well it seems the story is going to earn its R rating (or not, I'm being on the safe side). Huge thanks go out to my two betas (Adam the bunny checker and Sandra the overall beta) and everyone (Vanessa, Mother Love, Golden Eagle, Sora-chan, Robin, Tuna, Dreamer get extra kudos) for their support. I hope you enjoy this, I worked extremely hard on it. It seems The Hunt finally earns its Romance category as well. So this is dedicated to everyone who's waited patiently for something between Dilandau and Zorya to happen.
Coincidences strike again! This time they were so freaky they get their own section here. Anyway I went to go see Hannibal with my friend and while we were waiting for it to start we started talking about our fanfics. I mentioned something about Dilandau and how I would get him to burn down something and when I finished I looked up at the screen. Up there in huge letters was, I have made FIRE!-Tom Hanks Castaway. If that's not freaky enough, when I was watching Hannibal it was almost like watching certain parts of The Hunt on the big screen. And I never saw Hannibal or read the book before yesterday! But the refrigerator scene! That was exactly what Dilandau did to Zorya before the sorcerers interrupted!
One more interesting side note... Has anyone noticed Zorya has only called Dilandau by his first name when she's afraid? Hm? The rest of the time she's called him Albatou or General.




Rihae hovered above the lake, her wings beat slowly as she waited and hoped. It couldn't be possible... he had to have their birthright! He had to or all was for nothing. Dilandau didn't cry out as he fell, his back smooth and unbroken by anything of legend...
At last Rihae could wait no longer and brought her wings close to her body. She shot downward like a falling stone, the water of the lake loomed before the two and heralded their deaths. No, he cannot die. Her hands found her son's slim arms and her wings spread wide. For a few seconds they continued to fall but she beat her wings in quick succession until they rose above the lake's surface once more. A soft piteous noise came from below her and Rihae hazarded a glance at her boy.
Water streamed down his face, his garnet eyes closed to the world. A frown gripped at her as she held onto his arms tightly. Impure blood... how could you even think of trying to become one of us? Leave... Leave us and never return. The elders' words rang in her ears. For years she tried to pretend that never happened, tried to pretend it was another's life. As time past her by however it was no mistake that Gaea itself would show her the reality that was her life. Impure blood was not tolerated among the Draconians.
Her own children lacked that which ostracized her all over Gaea except in Fanelia's royal court. Rihae's violet eyes closed in anger at her ancestor who had let their lust rule them instead of a level intellectual mind. Dilandau's voice wavered as he fought to control his emotions.
Its all right Dilandau, we'll try again another time. Do you want to go into the boat and sail across the lake now? she forced herself to smile, forced herself to show him nothing was wrong. Dilandau grinned up at her, the tears already dry from his face as they landed. Celena watched the two, silent as ever. You'll get your turn love, just as soon as I'm sure he has our gift.
Gently Rihae dropped her son to the ground as her own feet brushed the soft grass. The feathers shot from her and littered the air about them as out of season snow flakes. No gentle laughter filled the air with the feathers however and both children were silent, as if they'd failed her in some way.
Celena, Dilandau, a ride out on the lake is in order. Come now, the weariness in her voice was masked by a forced cheeriness that she'd lapsed into far too often for her piece of mind. The suggestion brightened both children's face and Celena raced passed her brother and mother for the boat. A genuinely happy smile graced Rihae's face at her daughter's retreating back. The girl would be beautiful when she was a grown woman, and even if Dilandau did not have their rights than perhaps she did.
A gentle tug on her dress made Rihae look down, into the practically shattered face of her son. Fresh tears were in his eyes, his lips trembling as he fought with all his might not to cry. M-m-momma, did I make you sad? Are you mad at me? Please momma don't be mad or sad!
Dilandau, nothing you could ever do would make me angry, or sad, she said gently and kneeled down so her eyes were level with his own.
B-b-but my wings, Dilandau sniffled at her. Rihae smiled gently at him and pushed a few errant strands of silver hair away from his face.
They'll come to you in time, when you are ready. Such is the toil of the impure Dilandau. He continued to sniffle and his mother's fingers eased away his tears, though she could do nothing for the short breaths he was taking.

Of course, come now. Celena's waiting for us. She stood then and held her hand out to her son. Her son with the innocent eyes of the gentlest creature though they were the color of blood, or a beautiful garnet depending upon the light, and his hair the color of a sword's tempered steel... Stop that, there have been no warriors in our line for hundreds of years. Dilandau will be no exception, Rihae convinced herself as Dilandau put his hand in hers.
Hand in hand the two walked for the lake's edge where destiny awaited them.


Zorya shivered beneath the armor in the dark forest. She'd been in such a rush to get dressed and save what little dignity she had left from Dilandau that she hadn't dried off completely. That was pointless, he's not even back yet. Fear nipped at the back of Zorya's mind and she tried to push it away. He wouldn't leave, he couldn't I mean... What am I talking about he would leave me here to get eaten by the dragons.
Her hair felt like icicles as she turned her head at the sound of bushes and tree branches pushed aside. It took all of Zorya's self restraint not to breath a sigh of relief at the sight of Dilandau as he entered the little camp area; that and the fact her teeth had begun to chatter. What little that was left of her dark green cloak wasn't the best protection against the cold. Dilandau didn't look at her however as he entered the camp, his bulky breastplate and armor over one shoulder along with his white over layer.
Silence fell between them as he dropped his burden opposite her and sat down on the ground, his eyes not meeting hers at first. Which for Zorya was just as well.
Zorya found herself staring at him despite her frantic desire not to. He was a General in a war for how many years and not one scar marred his pale and flawless skin. How's that possible? Don't guys want scars so they can have My scar's bigger than yours! contests? If men confused Zorya before, Dilandau only deepened her confusion.
She wasn't sure how long she stared at him, only that she finally snapped out of whatever daze the lake's chilled waters induced and found his dark red eyes locked on her.


Kuaru followed Refina down a twisted staircase that supposedly lead to the outpost's inner courtyard. The place that held... Kuaru nearly gasped as his eyes fell upon the outpost's second treasure. Blood covered the ground and pooled into stagnant puddles that drew flies by the hundreds. That was not what made him gasp however, it was the hulking mass of tenderized meat that rested in the courtyard's center. Rivers of blood ran all over it, and he could see half absorbed bodies scattered across its surface.
I've done as you instructed, although finding willing volunteers took some time, Refina said with a smile. A smile that reminded him of that General. Gods, what would happen if the two ever met? A shiver of fear ran down his spine and he walked into the courtyard. It was healing... slowly but surely it was healing itself.
How long have you done this?
For nearly six months Sorcerer, she replied in a bored tone.
It should've been completely regenerated by now, Kuaru rambled out loud. Refina did not follow him further into the blood drenched courtyard, and he soon realized why. The god of death was slowly assimilating everything around it, draining it of life and sending anything within reach to death. Red tendrils snaked outwards from the still incapacitated machine, slow and clumsy to the unsuspecting victim. They shot out for the sorcerer who stopped them with a mere word. You're sure you followed our instructions perfectly?
You were here when we began to repair it, Refina shot back but did not follow him as he walked closer to the body of the god. The damage done by Escaflowne two and a half years ago was still evident on the outside though the host area had been improved considerably. That area is repaired enough to begin feeding it lifeblood.
Where are the engineers we gave you? he asked over his shoulder and walked around the bloody pulp.
In it. The tendrils pulled them in. Kuaru nodded his head, as if that were an acceptable loss. Why are you doing this?
I thought you were instructed not to ask questions girl, Kuaru replied absently and touched the red skin. It retreated from his touch, but slowly as if Death had no power itself despite their best attempts to raise it a second time. Its going too slowly. We need this in case the goddess fails us... Refina, bring the dragenergists here. They should hasten its recovery, he told her and walked back to the courtyard's door.
Just dragenergists? Those bodies are at least three moons old.
Kuaru threw a look over his shoulder before answering her. Yes, acquire a few more volunteers. The dragenergists and blood may just simulate the impure well enough to heal it swiftly.


Dilandau watched her, unsure of what he should say. She hadn't answered his question, well he hadn't gotten the answer he wanted. But what was the answer he wanted? He wasn't even sure of that, only that killing her like the voice said was not the answer he sought so desperately. Her dark red hair was still wet and clung to her skin he noticed absently. He held no remorse for what just happened. Why should he? He saved her again... and had a horrible feeling the dance of life debts would begin anew.
Zorya didn't take into account he was not a as his childhood memory reminded him; he was staring. He'd also missed the emotions that flitted across her face but now he focused on her eyes. The only things that didn't look chilled from the lake. Dilandau stared back though he had nothing to fuel his simmering anger that could explode at any moment.
I'm sorry, I shouldn't have slapped you, Zorya said coldly, her teeth chattered between her words.
That's right, I should've left you to the merman, the words rolled off his tongue easily. He wanted to say more, worse, anything but forced himself to remain silent. Zorya narrowed her eyes at him briefly then looked down and Dilandau followed her gaze. The long dead fire of the night before was just a pile of ash and black wood. You didn't even start a fire? How useless are you? he nearly snarled out of habit.
That was all he needed to set off Zorya's angry grey-green eyes. You make the stupid fire if you want one so badly, she said darkly. The freezing Mystic Moon maiden promptly turned around and refused to even glare at him. What little sense of victory Dilandau felt from her apology fled him and it annoyed him. He never felt such a defeat before, certainly not at the hands of some woman. Anger burned within Dilandau, which subsided slightly as he saw her shiver again. The dark haired woman said nothing, not one complaint; if out of fear or stubbornness Dilandau didn't know. That was something he valued however, and insisted each of his dragonslayers had it. She'll slow us down if she continues like that. A mischievous smile worked its way to his face. Drying beneath the sun was much more efficient than hiding in wet clothes beneath the forest's canopy.
Of course with whatever modesty Zorya had talked about before he doubted she'd try to dry off like that now. His eyes narrowed at her as she let out a soft cough and continued to look away from him. Dilandau looked behind him and found what supplies he'd taken back from his horse, still hidden away if he chose to leave her here. He couldn't do that though and it infuriated him.
With a silent curse Dilandau picked up his black cloak, a gift from a bandit who wouldn't need it where he was now. In one fluid motion he rose up from his side of the dead fire and held the black shadow in one hand. It took him only two steps to cross it and drop the cloak, on Zorya.
If you're going to return to the castle with me I will not allow you to slow me down by getting sick and keeping me up all night chattering and coughing, Dilandau warned her as she pulled the dark cloak off her head. She watched him, her pale lips in a slack line as if not believing what he'd just done. How he loathed fate now, for forcing him to be so close to her. For allowing him time to think, for denying him of his answers so many times before...
I'm starting back now. I suggest you hurry up if you don't want to be left here, he called behind him and swung his hefty armor over his shoulder.


Galese hated the stench that now permeated everything, even her skin. She'd discarded the bulky armor for the sake of comfort and it lay in the more odious corner of her room. It was all Zorya's fault, everything that had happened so far was all her fault. If it weren't for her I'd still be in the castle with Korent and be in a nice warm bed dammit! she fumed silently.
It didn't help that the blond refused to leave her alone. She couldn't even try to bathe in peace! That or that freak prince would decide to pay her a visit. Maybe if she'd met him before the war, before Takaru took over his mind... before she met Korent... she might've found him attractive, thought him a worthy suitor . After all her uncle would leave the throne to her and Ricpen would leave Hiwero to join her as her consort. She could recall that he had two younger brothers, either of whom could easily be heir to the Hiwero throne. Had... they're dead or at least he says that, Galese corrected herself.
A soft humming filled the air, not unpleasant in the least. It was the voice Galese was growing to despise however, it was his. Stop it, though her voice tried to cling to what command she could muster it was barely there. A soft laugh took the place of the humming which didn't stop completely.
Why? Don't you want to hear my voice beloved?
Galese did not acknowledge him with any move of her body, only her voice, anger strengthening it. I am not your beloved.
Ah, but we are to marry. The sorcerers must have Celet at any cost.
I will not marry you and you are not my beloved-
Oh, and that dragonslayer is? Did you honestly think it would work? Celet with a soldier king?! Amazing, I'm stunned that I overestimated your lineage. Celetans, the intellects of Gaea who have the largest libraries on all Gaea and hold the knowledge of the ancients in their teachings. All of that and you were still stupid enough enough to think it could work? I suppose it was a blessing your parents were killed before they could procreate again. Galese sat silent, not willing to be goaded into some mindless screaming match. Tears stung at her eyes but she blinked furiously and didn't not let them fall down her dark cheeks. When she got out... when she told Korent of what he said... Oh Takaru, or whatever his name was now, would regret ever being born. So, you agree with me. All dragonslayers are disgusting bastards that should-
You're jealous, Galese interrupted, her eyes still on the floor.
He stopped dead in his tracks. I am not jealous of him! How dare you! She heard the door to her cell open and moment later her head was pulled up to look into angry bright green eyes. I am not jealous of him!
Galese was about to defend Korent until something registered in her brain. He never knew Korent though... He wasn't there. And for once everything made sense, well for the moment it did anyway.
Galese returned his angry, if questioning, glare. The only dragonslayer he could be talking about was... You are jealous of Dilandau Albatou. She saved him instead of you! she hissed. He continued to glare at her, his eyes fluttered blue for a moment before he released her.
I don't know what-
She was your friend and you tried to kill her. Who do you think she'd save?
He took a step back, as if Galese's eyes were a ward against evil. She wanted to scream, to run out of the cell. Instead she watched him and wondered how it felt for him to look into a face he'd tried to kill before.


Refina walked down the hallway, the afternoon light casting an eerie sheen off the stones to her left and right. Takaru pushed passed her just a few minutes before, swearing under his breath and talking to himself at the same time. She shook her head, Zongi made a mistake in creating that abomination.
That wasn't why she was in front of the cell instead of acquiring more She'd heard a name, a name that she knew as well as her own. Refina could remember at the end of the war how she searched for him. Perhaps she was just a little obsessed... Refina smiled at that stray thought, well one never gets what they want by being a wallflower. He'd run from her though and she'd lost touch with him.
The smile lessened slightly as she looked upon the silent princess. What was that you said about Dilandau Albatou? Galese was silent, something that only someone that wanted to die would do in Refina's presence. If you don't want me to go and bring Takaru back here tell me what you just said, she barked at the dark haired girl. Galese did not respond to her query once more and Refina was tempted to open the cell and drag the girl out to the weakened Alseides.
He killed Takaru, Galese said simply and did not look up from her seat on the floor. Refina smirked, she didn't think that General would let himself get killed by some lowly apprentice of the sorcerers. And she saved him instead of Takaru. Its her fault that Takaru died but, Dilandau saved her from death.
Refina's smirk disappeared in an instant. The General... he'd saved someone? Someone other than a dragonslayer, and a woman?!? Her face clouded over and Refina took a step towards the cell. What do you mean he saved her? Dilandau Albatou does not give mercy or save anyone!
Galese looked up at her then, a strange look in her eyes. Refina's face must've given away her thoughts as Galese watched her, a tiny smile beginning to appear on Celet's princess. Well I guess you're in the same boat Takaru's in aren't you? Besides who are you to even think of competing with a goddess? Hm? That was it. That was all it took for Refina's last shred of self restraint to snap. She retched open the cell and proceeded to drag the princess down the hallway...
Refina smiled cruelly as the princess began to protest against the trained soldier. Death didn't care who it took, common or royal blood. One less ass of a ruler for the common people to worry about, Refina chuckled to herself as they descended the stairs to the courtyard.


He found the hidden horse easily and it's black coat clean despite the past few days. It would only take a few minutes to get the saddle and supplies on and then they could leave. The sounds of branches being pushed aside and twigs snapped alerted him to the only other person in the forest. Dilandau barely threw her a glance over his shoulder, only to see she was wearing the black cloak over her own armor and had what remained of her supplies in her hands.
Then there was the whole point of each of their little excursions, the dragenergist. It sat just to the left of the horse in a benign manner, the dim red pulse diminished from when he last saw it. It probably won't be potent enough for any spell now.
Dilandau picked up the dragenergist, it's pale red glow dimmed considerably from when he first it. He could still feel the faint beat of the dragon's power in his hands. Each second that he held it made the glow and beat more pronounced. The power, he could feel it seeping through the crystalline casing into his fingers. He could feel it coursing through his arms. The power... the power was the same as that he felt when he commanded Death.
Pain all over his body, like bugs with needles for mouths... But the power he felt in his veins, the power that he commanded! It was a sweet agony that was twisted into a perverse pleasure with everything he destroyed... with every life he stole into the night. And the fires... the fires had burned brightly that night with each one started by himself and the Alseides. Gods... Gods... He was one! He was a god and then his godhood had been stripped from him all too soon.
The images left him, of his first defeat. The forest gradually rose around him. Zorya was standing there, her bulky armor discarded for the time being. Bring her to us... Give her to us and you may command Death once more. At any other point in his life Dilandau would've given into the voice immediately. He wanted that power again; he wanted the strength! But could he hand her over to the voice? After his answers, yes, after his answers he would claim his power.
Another wave of power filled him as his fingers clenched around it. The pulse quickened and the glow deepened. I don't need to waste time and wait. I was a god, I am a dragonslayer General... He held the power, not her!
It was a throbbing that nearly burned his skin as he continued to hold the orb. He had the power... gods he could do anything with this... His eyes trailed up from the orb and fell on her. Gods he could take those answers now, he could take what he wanted!
A horrible smile pulled the corners of his lips up as he tilted his head to the side, his eyes didn't leave her for a second. He took a step forward, he had the power... he could get what he wanted when he wanted. Yes, he was powerful enough to get what he wanted. Gods what he wanted so badly that he could feel every muscle in his body tense in anticipation.
Zorya didn't back away, gods she was foolish just waiting there for him. He could take her easily, could take that which had- her voice. Soft, innocent... fearful. Her face had paled, overwhelmed by fear that made her speak his name.
Her soft voice broke the trance the dragenergist pulled him into. Dilandau almost dropped the deep red sphere like a hot coal. He froze completely, the ecstasy of power draining fro him. Gods... she did fear him...
No... Gods I am not thinking like that, I am in control not some remnant of a dragon in heat! Dilandau forced himself to think that, to listen to his own thoughts. He could not afford to be caught unaware, not when he had to get her back to the castle in one piece and with so many Hiwero soldiers and spies that attempted to infiltrate Celet. A distraction, even one of the mind, could prove fatal... to both of them.


Celena nearly cried in relief when she felt his barrier lower. Gods she would know where he was... The wall was not brought down voluntarily though as Celena didn't hear any coherent thoughts in his mind. Just feelings... emotions... memories of the past.
A lurching shape the color of blood that burned everything to the ground. Fire, power, strength... Then it was gone in a moment only to be replaced by-
Gods even if he didn't mean to... She felt the innermost emotions of his mind and grabbed at a nearby chair in her room, only to collapse into it. The dragons, they had to be influencing him. She prayed that was all it was.
You toy in blood Dilandau, Celena rasped as he cut off their connection abruptly. The dragenergist... they had a dragenergist. That was the only reason she managed to get through to him. Dilandau, she tried feebly but couldn't reach him. He was with Zorya, she knew that much. I can't let this happen, oh gods why did we come here Dilandau?
The dragonslayers... Gatty, she had to make sure! She needed to make sure before she could try anything.


You take this, Dilandau half mumbled-half growled at her. She could do nothing but try to catch the dragenergist he threw at her before he began to tend the horse. Zorya tugged open a small pouch at her waist beneath Dilandau's cloak and dropped the dragenergist in along with what gidaru she had left.
For a moment she'd been afraid very afraid. The look on Dilandau's face just moments before was more disturbing than any other look she saw him wear. It was almost like he lost control of himself for a moment. Dilandau in control was scary enough to think about but a Dilandau not even in control... She shuddered absently as the cloak settled back around her.
Zorya stood off to the side as Dilandau tacked the black stallion with an ease she didn't think he possessed. One horse, they only had one horse to get back. Well?! What the hell are you waiting for? Its bad enough that you're going to slow me down and now you're just going to stand there? he grated out.
Reflexively Zorya took a small step back and gave the horse and rider a wary look. Could she stand more than one day with just him and the horse? The black stallion snorted and pawed at the sparse grass. Do you want to be left here? I'm sure there are other merman more than willing to drag you down at the lake again.
She didn't need any other prodding from him walked to the side of the horse. When he failed to give her a hand up she waited. Dilandau merely stared down at her, his garnet eyes emotionless. Well? Give me a hand, she said impatiently as he stared down at her.
Can't get on a horse yourself?
Not with you hogging the saddle and stirrups, she forced herself to say it without growling or screaming. The General rolled his eyes at her and held out one hand to her. Zorya, despite the anger and fear she still felt for him, took it and pulled herself up with his help. The second she settled behind him she heard him begin to mutter about idiots, dragons and weak women who didn't know how to ride a horse. She had to physically restrain herself and force her hands to hold onto his overlayer. She'd though she'd be completely terrified if she was ever left alone with him. Is there anyone more confusing that Dilandau out there? One second he annoys me to no end the next he scares the living daylights out of me! This better just be a phase, I do not need to hit him and end up getting left behind just because he keeps muttering to insult me, Zorya thought darkly as the stallion cantered out of the forest for the main road.


The mood that hung over the throne room was the complete opposite of that which filled it at the ball just moons before. Ex-councilmen, usurped by the sorcerers only two years before, waited anxiously as the room filled with every noble of Celet; all save one. Kaele was markedly absent, his formal crown rested on the deep blue velvet cushion. Instead three of the four current advisors stood before it. Their dark cloaks folded over each others' and made them appear to be some hideous three headed monster. Which, to the ex-councilmen, they no doubt were.
The three were silent, normally that would encourage the mob before them to chit-chat or ignore the three completely. Under the circumstances that ad overcome the castle a fearful silence replaced whatever conversations may have irrupted.
Fellow citizens of Celet, of Waesir Palace, I sorrowfully must become the bearer of misery. A few wails from the elder ladies of the court interrupted Paruchi but only momentarily. It is with great sadness that I announce officially King Kaele del Celetan is dead, a dagger plunged into his heart. Upon this agony I must add another blow. His stated successor, Galese el Celetan is missing. At that the wailing began again, louder than before. The men tried to calm them but the cries continued. We have suspects, Hiwero is above the rest and we believe that the dragonslayer General is to blame-
You've no proof, he didn't do it! fifteen voices shouted at the three headed wolf in sheep's clothing.
Their faces remained solemn and stoned faced despite the protests from the captured dragonslayers. Yes, in the face of all that had happened it was the thing to do. Gods only knew if the dragonslayers would follow their General's example and slaughter the rest of the nobility while they slept. It would behoove you dragonslayers to be silent at this point and accept your fate, one on the left announced.
So you can plant lies on our the dragonslayer reputation as well as our General's?! Another one shouted to the three. Lord Dilandau would not lea-
Leave you behind? So he would commit a murder and kidnapping? Just as I suspected, it benefits Celet that I had to foresight to arrest all of you yesterday. Otherwise you may have escaped or resisted arrest but, that is what you were doing wasn't it when you fled to the dungeons in search of sanctuary. The fifteen were silent then which made it very hard for the sorcerers to hide their smiles of triumph. They had one more piece of the puzzle in their hands, and the dragonslayers would not leave them that quickly. We in the princess' steed shall punish you. Death would be too kind and lax punishment, if you agree Celet, Garufo called out over the now roaring crowd.
Kill them!
Castrate
Feed them to the dogs! That last shout from the crowd only dredged up whatever determination the dragonslayers had left in them.
You won't get away with this! a silver-blond haired youth shouted, his eyes alight with fire.
Master Dilandau won't allow you to live after this! another blond, his eyes a startling green, shouted with the first. The three kept their faces cold and collected.
What doubts there were as par your innocence you have just destroyed, one sorcerer thought while hiding his smile. Guards, keep their hands bound and throw them in Celet's deepest dungeon. We shall interrogate each one individually as to the whereabouts of our dear princess.
The fifteen struggled once more but with their hands bound, their weapons sealed away and with five guards to each dragonslayer as a precaution, they had no means of escape. No, that's not completely true, as one young woman with almost silver hair and troubled blue eyes watched the young men being dragged away to their fates. Her eyes lingered on one in particular before she looked away. This would make her job so much more difficult now...


Zorya sat behind him, the pouch with the dragenergist at her hip. It was the second day of traveling from the lake. The ride to their first campsite had been uneventful and quiet. Zorya wasn't completely sure what to make of that. He'd certainly been willing to insult her about the fire and merman before he tacked the horse. Although now even as she sat behind him, the warm afternoon sun above them, she wasn't sure if silence was necessarily the best thing. Dilandau could be contemplating her doom, even is she doubted that now. Taking a deep breath, Zorya attempted to break the silence between them with the first thing that came into her head. I don't see why you bothered to come here. I mean I could've killed-
Don't make me laugh! Only a few people in all of Gaea have managed to kill a dragon, what makes you think you'd join them? Dilandau responded quickly enough.
I've had traini-
I would call you an idiot but you're worse than that. How stupid can you be? Don't tell me you assumed you could kill one just because that spy called you a goddess. Zorya shut her mouth, stunned at his words. He was right, she'd been a complete idiot to try and kill a dragon herself. She waited for him to continue, to throw some other horrible comment at her but it never came. Zorya nearly let out a sigh of relief but stopped herself. Dilandau's words were never ever that kind.
Is that it? Her voice sounded meek and timid and for a moment Zorya wondered why she bothered to speak at all. Its not like I'm looking to get insulted.
He remained silent, aside from a grumbling under his breath, much to Zorya's surprise. Then again, lately he'd been full of surprises. Not that I mind that much.
Slowly, afraid he might sit up or make another comment, Zorya leaned forward and let her cheek rest on his back. For a moment she felt his back muscles tense, then relax. When he made no complaint, quite the contrary to what she'd thought he'd do, she let her eyes close. I'll just close them for a second...
She was already deep in sleep when a gloved hand covered both her hands on Dilandau's front.


Dilandau looked over his shoulder, to see her face in a gentle slumber. He remained still, the horse's gate smooth as silk. I should wake her... I can't let her just- Dilandau was still once more, even as he watched her. She was so peaceful now. An angel... a goddess. Not for the first time Dilandau wondered if she was the goddess of wings. After all, Escaflowne was to drown the world in flames and it had gone against that other brat's wishes at first.
She let out a soft sight and her cheek leaned against his armor. An odd feeling overcame him and Dilandau's hands covered her own tightly. No, he'd let her rest for now. He turned back to face the road, a strange look on his face. When was the last time he'd felt like this; calm and relaxed? Not since the dragon's attack...
Darkness descended upon the land as they continued for Celet, their goal accomplished. There was nothing left for them now, not if they gave the dragenergist to the sorcerers. The sorcerers will find Galese, Kaele will have us retrieve her and that will be the end of it. You'll go back to being the advisor and Galese...
He had no intention of retaining Korent in his services, not now. The young man would be a liability if they ever found someone that looked like Galese or took her hostage... Zorya... It would be too easy for anyone to take hold of the dragonslayers then. He shut his eyes briefly, even as the sun set ahead of him. No, he'd never be done with this task; never. The warmth behind him and the hands on his stomach only forced him to remember that. Nothing lasts forever, the noble from the barren lands, the alpha of the wild dogs, the leader of the dragonslayers knew this better than anyone. Everyone would leave, everyone would forget. But I won't.
Stars twinkled above them now and idly Dilandau wondered how long he'd been contemplating the task. Would they go back to Celet? Would she go back...
Too dark to go on, he mumbled to himself, aware that she was still asleep. Gently he tugged on the reins of the horse and led it off the road and into the forest. He was sure there would be a clearing here somewhere, or an abandoned camp used by the trading caravans. While he found no signs of the latter he did manage to find a clearing of sorts. The grass was nearly knee high but, it was clear of bushes and trees. Probably used by a hunting party more than a few months ago.
He pulled on the reins once more, and forced the horse to circle the clearing and bent the fresh blades of grass beneath it's sturdy hooves. Once it passed as acceptable for Dilandau, he prepared to dismount. He was stopped by hands on him, hands that were heavy with sleep and limp to their owner.


A low crackling woke Zorya from her slumber and for a second she floundered, trying to grip a body that wasn't in front of her and ride a horse that wasn't beneath her. A high chuckle helped to speed her thought processes. He continued to laugh, even as she sat up. The laughter was subdued but continued softly even as she glared at him.
He remained, still chuckling, across the fire from her. Its unbelievable that you haven't been killed yet. Zorya looked away then, why hadn't he woken her up to insult her? A slew of remarks came to her grumpy mind but, Zorya bit down on her tongue. Insulting a psycho in the middle of nowhere... yea... real smart... She'd barely noticed the laughter died, or that his eyes no longer mocked her. I want an answer.
The tone of the words made Zorya look up. His lips were pressed into a thin line that could turn into a frown. Excuse me?
An answer. You were preoccupied in the lake, I want an answer now. When Zorya said nothing the corners of his lips twitched ever so slightly. Are... you... afraid... of... me?
Zorya stared at him blankly, he couldn't be serious. How he said it though, as if he struggled to get it out. He looked away from her then, his garnet eyes finding something more interesting in the surrounding trees. They are. It may not look it but, they fear me. That's the only way to get loyalty, to be feared. That is the only reason Folken had my loyalty, I feared what his power could do to me. I'm an ex-Black Dragon General, I have the dragon's blood in my veins, I've killed hundreds, burned villages to the ground. Gaea herself trembles when I'm angered and I need to know, are you like everyone else?
Silence, not even the chirps of bugs and birds of night dared to break the silence of Dilandau's spoken thoughts. Zorya herself wasn't sure about what to say, Dilandau actually had rational thoughts? That was news to her, the victim of his threats and nightly excursions. Now it was time for Zorya to look away. She focused on the thick underbrush, wishing that some animal might jump out and break the pause between them.
I'm not sure. You said you'd kill me, I don't know if you're using this as a distrac-
You'd be dead already, he interrupted bluntly.
So? You could be plotting, and there's the whole sneaking into my room, not to mention dragging me halfway across the castle.
So you are-
No, I'm not done yet, Zorya cut him off. She forced herself to stop tracing the outlines of the plants around her. Hesitantly she brought her eyes up, expecting to see Dilandau still searching the lush canopy. Instead their eyes met and froze on sight. Stop it! Just talk! You did save my life, when Takaru tried to kill me and killed the dragon too. Not to mention you let me know what was going on behind my back at the castle. Dilandau raised an eyebrow, his lips in a slack line. So, I really don't know. I'm not sure what to think of you, she amended softly. Something crossed his face but he nodded, and it was gone before she knew what it was.
The sounds of a forest resumed around them, the tension gone. Zorya watched him though, afraid she gave him the wrong answer. I see, that's why you get along with her so well.

My sister, she doesn't fear me. Well, she's not as afraid as everyone else. Dilandau continued to watch her and Zorya was afraid, truly afraid as to why he'd go off on this tangent. His face softened for a moment, as did his eyes. You should be, he said softly and turned away from her, presumably to sleep.
Guess I get the night watch, Zorya whispered to herself as the fire slowly began to die and cover the campsite in darkness.


Zorya awoke none to kindly at their second campsite. Something was tickling her face, but not enough to purposely wake her. Agitated, Zorya pushed her hand in front of her face and tried to brush it away. Her fingers, expecting to to touch either Dilandau's hand or some furry animal. Although the former was highly unlikely she wouldn't put it past him to wake her up in a thoroughly annoying way. What her hands did touch however was something scaly.
She mumbled something as her eyes opened. Dilandau's gloves were made of leather, not dragon hide. At least that's what she thought they were. Everything blurred around her while her sleep heavy eyes tried to adjust. A blob of dark mottled green moved just a few inches, maybe a foot, from her with a jerky motion. Zorya almost wrote it off as plant caught in the wind that she'd rolled over to in her sleep. Annoyed, Zorya pushed it away, only for it to hiss and dance out of her way.
Her body froze at the sound, suddenly afraid. What the hell made that noise and was dark green? Wait a second... wasn't I supposed to take the night shift? Maybe it wouldn't be the smartest thing to make a noise that could wake up Dilandau...
Zorya's vision slowly cleared and she fought against every instinct in her that wanted to scream. It was a rat. A big rat about half the size of a feline and covered in black and dark green scales. Worst of all it hissed again at her as she sat up, revealing rows of sharp (if tiny) teeth. Zorya's blood ran cold as the thing hissed and lashed its tail out behind it. Were rats violent? Did they eat meat? This one looks like it could take down a dog. Zorya tried to reaffirm the fact it was only a rat and failed. This rat looked like it missed dinner, for the past few moons.
she called out softly and scuttled backward a bit. The rat's dark beady eyes watched her, then advanced upon her with a low hiss. Zorya shrank back a little more as the dark shape moved closer. Could rats jump? Oh god she couldn't remember if rats bit people! she hissed more urgently and watched his still form. His white overlayer was folded to the side, his bulky breastplate rested beside it. Where was his sword? Where's my sword?! Zorya felt it at her hip but when she moved her hand even an inch to draw it the thing hissed at her louder than before.
Zorya called out a bit louder than before. His body stirred but not by much. Not enough to indicate he'd wake up anytime soon. The thing hissed again and scampered forward. It's front end went down slightly as it's back haunches rose. Its going to jump! Zorya couldn't get her legs or arms to cooperate however even as the hiss deepened.
Zorya nearly screamed as it did jump, rather she was more concerned with dodging it, which she managed to do barely... Even as she managed to dodge the sharp teeth she knocked into Dilandau. That would warrant enough insults from him later. Quickly Zorya over him, only to hear the rat hiss in annoyance. she tried to wake him. She may've been able to use her sword against another person but, a quick small target like a rat... no way in hell she'd be able to hit it.


Dilandau had the pleasure of being woken up to a rough shaking and hysterics; Zorya's hysterics to be precise. It could not be time to start off again... not when he felt like he'd just shut his eyes. Give her to us and all this will end, end it Albatou. It didn't help his mood at all that the damned voice was in his head every five seconds. It was even more annoying than Celena.
He was ready, out of reflex and annoyance, to just kill Zorya. Thankfully for her it didn't take long for his rational part of his brain to start working. When that happened Zorya clutched at his shoulders to turn him around, making his still sleep blurred vision even fuzzier than before. It keeps hissing and jumping and... kill it! Dilandau! she gave him a shake as she said his name and Dilandau couldn't even shrug off her hands as he tried to focus on a dark blurry moving object. At her shrill voice a dark green scaled thing jumped at them.
His vision cleared and when he focused on it Dilandau was torn between yelling at her or laughing. The attacker was a rat. It was an easy enough task to catch it by the tail as it jumped at Zorya, though it went into a hissing fit. This?!? This is what you woke me up for?! Dilandau turned around and tried to scream at her but his sleep deprived vocal cords didn't comply. Instead his words came out as an angry rasp.
I... um... Get that thing away from me! Zorya nearly screamed as he swung the rat on its tail towards her. Dilandau would've grinned at her discomfort towards something other than himself but, he was far too tired to be amused.
A racrat is what made you wake me up?!
It had sharp teeth, Zorya tried to argue, her eyes not leaving the rat in his hand. Show her where her place is! Show her what a god can do! Dilandau pushed the voice from his head quickly, or tried to.
For scavenging! The dragenergist probably lured it to you, Dilandau stated bluntly but held the rat a bit away from Zorya. The color returned to her face and she sat down.
So, it wasn't trying to eat me ?
If I injured you now, maybe. Although that looks like a very good option right now, Dilandau managed to snap at her.
Zorya did not look all too pleased about that. But you said I would be dead already it-
An injury doesn't need to be mortal to call these things, Dilandau said in a low voice and held Zorya's eyes with his own for the split second she looked up to get his point across. He brought his hand that held the still hissing rat up above her head.
That would've helped if you told me this before now, Zorya said and squirmed as the rat looked like it would fall from his grasp.
Oh, so little I-think-I'm-a-goddess-and-can-slay-a-dragon didn't bother to check what wildlife she'd be up against? How am I not surprised? his voice rose louder than before and allowed some of his anger to seep into his words. It didn't matter if he couldn't kill her or hand her over to that voice (which he thought was all in his head), he could get angry with her. It was so difficult to stay calm, not when she made mistakes left and right that would've killed anyone else. It did not help that they still had the dragenergist and if he didn't know any better he would've thought that was the voice's origin.
Oh I'm sorry mister high and mighty that not everyone is just so perfect like you, Zorya almost yelled at him. All that accomplished was Dilandau lowered the rat slightly (though its hissing and twitching stopped).
I am extremely close to leaving this place by myself Zorya. What little patience I had for you is gone, he said darkly. Yes! Show her what a god can do! Rid yourself of her Albatou, rid yourself of those so called emotions- Zorya opened her mouth to say something but it was too much for Dilandau now. SHUT UP! SHUT UP! he shouted as something launched itself from the bushes to their left.


The water nymph listened to the loud noises carefully. No, not its mother but, something else. Food. Yes, food. It lost it's earlier prey before, the dark small thing had ran faster than it could on its still forming front flippers. True it was far from the water and its nest, but it would get back before the sun rose too high.
The tiny dragon skittered across the forest floor, closer to the voices. Sure enough prey was making all the noise its primitive eardrums heard. Two large things, two or three times its size and the dark thing that eluded it before. The thing let out a low hiss, too soft for any of its prey to hear. It would eat well today, as long as it had enough poison in its veins...
The small dark slate colored dragon pushed itself forward, determined to have its belly full of the things its mother brought to the nest so frequently when it was a hatchling.


Dilandau recoiled but it was too little too late. The General pulled his hand back, even as the nymph sunk its fang deeper into his flesh. No scream left him however, no matter how much pain he was in. Had they camped near a river or lake? Gods he should've paid more attention...
Zorya was somewhere to his right but he couldn't- Dilandau wrestled with the snake like thing. His free wrist struggled to remove it but it held fast. He could feel the fangs sinking deeper into his flesh, pumping poison into his body with each past second. Ironic... How I began is how I'll end...
The warning brought him back to reality, if just for a moment. He felt his uninjured arm retched behind him. Dilandau saw Zorya for the fleetest of moments, then he saw the sword. He was too weak to retaliate, slowed by the poison in his veins. I'm going to die at a woman's hands... Wouldn't father laugh at me now. His garnet eyes shut in acceptance and waited for the touch of cold metal in his flesh, to end the agony he tried so valiantly to suppress. Instead he heard the shrill malformed keen of the nymph and felt blood gush from his wound.
The sound forced him to open his eyes, forced him to look at her. Gods, she'd killed the dragon. The dark blue body writhed for a few minutes on the grass, while the head was doused in its own dark green blood. Dilandau barely noticed his own blood had begun to spill over his armor and onto the blank unseeing eyes of the nymph.
Dilandau could feel his pulse beat in his ears as he looked at the wound. The edge were shredded and bright red blood flowed out of it, along with the pale green poison of the water nymph. The pain didn't bother him though, he could remember worse pain, more intense pain. He closed his eyes momentarily to focus on those memories. Folken's anger, his hand, the revival of Alseides, of death. Those pains... the quick snapping of his bones, his throat squeezed by invisible hands. Then there was the horrible prickling of needles all over his skin, draining him of blood. The slow agony of bleeding to death to revive It; only for it's own body to sustain him for that battle. A smirk almost lit up his face but the poison had already begun to take hold, numbing his nerves slowly but surely. The voice had shut up now at least. Dilandau Albatou would not be commanded to do anything he did not want to...
Oh shit, Dilandau? Dilandau are you okay? Zorya's voice sounded softer, farther away than it did before.
I need to rest, he tried to growl and instead it came out soft, just like Zorya's. He kneeled on the ground, just a few feet from the dead nymph. Sleep, sleep was what he needed...
Are you sure? Dilandau are you okay? fear still covered her words, though Dilandau could take a little pride in the fact the fear she said his name with was not completely directed at him.
I'll be fine! Let me sleep...


Dilandau hopped into the boat eagerly as his mother began to push them off. Her wings dissolved into a sea of feathers all around them and Celena giggled as one tickled her nose. Can I try after this Momma? her soft voice excited as she spoke.
He grimaced at Celena, she would try and get something out of this after all. Dilandau quickly turned his head to watch his mother's face. He waited for her eyes to shine brightly at them both and shake her head ruefully as she reprimanded Celena for getting ahead of herself. That never came, instead his mother's violet eyes did not meet his own as she stepped onto the boat. Perhaps Celena. I'm sure you would like a break, wouldn't you Dilandau?
The small boy could do nothing to hide his shock and disappointment quickly enough. Was his mother giving up on him? He could do it! He could make his wings appear, he just needed a little time! Dilandau refused to even glance at Celena. Tears stung at his eyes but he wouldn't let them see. He wouldn't let any of them see, until he was ready.
Really Momma? I'm sure I can fly just like you, the high voice was far too cheerful for Dilandau now and he turned to watch the lake's surface. The few tears that did escape him were barely even enough to alter the lake's surface.


Dilandau thrashed from his resting place on the forest floor. No... No! He knew what was going to happen... Gods, it was going to repeat itself... Time was going to pull her from him again! He was barely aware of his arm's wound reopening or the fact he'd actually vocalized his fear...


The boat drifted leisurely out into the middle of the lake, the cerulean fields around them bent to the will of the wind alone. Dilandau no longer added to the lake but rather watched the small waves listlessly. Would there be a point to even trying to get his wings to appear?
A smirk barely lightened his face for a moment as the wind died down. Celena was a girl, she wouldn't make her wings appear any better than he did. His red eyes were so absorbed in watching the lake's surface that he missed the dark shape beneath the waves, the same shape he had seen from the air only minutes before.
Dilandau, get away from the edge.
Momma, why can't I get my wings to show? his voice was quieter than normal as he faced his fear. Would his mother love him less for not having her gift?
Oh Dilandau, they'll appear. It's just not right for you no- His mother's voice was cut off and Celena's shrill scream filled the air. The dark shape each member of the Albatou family missed was now upon them, it's head rising quickly from the lake's cool water. The dragon was not enormous, compared to some of the sea dragons spotted on the oceans but, it was certainly enormous to both Dilandau and his sister. Dilandau! Celena! his mother barely screeched as the thing opened its cavernous mouth and slammed its small head and slender neck downwards.
Fear washed over Dilandau as the slender thing advanced upon them in what seemed like slow motion. What happened next occurred too fast for Dilandau to keep track of. He saw his mother grab Celena, she was closer to her in the small boat, and the wings sprouted appeared from her back. The monstrous thing continued and Dilandau could smell the acrid odor of rotting fish with each second. his mother was away now, screaming his name. Gods... gods he was going to get eaten by a water dragon! he screamed one moment and found himself in the air the next. It was all Dilandau could do from crying out with joy only he spotted his mother and sister opposite of him from the dragon. His mother's face, despite the fact they'd nearly become a dragon's feast, was filled with joy and pride.
Dilandau hazarded a glance behind him and saw only a soft white around him. He could feel them now, light against his back, but the muscles and sail bones straining to keep him up. His face broke out into an ecstatic grin as they beat in time with his thoughts. He'd done it! He could fly! That was all he got to do however as the dragon reared its head and snapped it towards him. Dilandau had no experience with the wings and could barely get them to lift him in time...
The dragon's putrid snout grazed one wing tip and that was all it needed to snap halfway on that sail bone. Dilandau's cries of joy turned to horror as he plummeted back into the water, his fragile wings and hopes dashed to dust.
He surfaced the lake's water quickly only to see the dragon staring at him as if he were a piece of chicken or beef. Then there was his mother... his mother holding Celena just to the left of the dragon's head... he barely whispered.


Rihae caught her son's eyes for a moment and smiled sadly. This was to be her fate, to save her son. To save him for his own fate, twisted as it could be. The silver-blue haired woman threw Celena to the water, close to where Dilandau was swimming, or rather floundering with his wings. It was that action that caught the dragon's attention.
Even faster than Rihae thought possible for the beast, it swung around with its jaws open. She could hear her children's screams, warning her to move out of its way. Even if she could obey her children's cries it would've done her no good. All it took was a snap of the deep blue dragon's jaws and Rihae was no more.
A flurry of feathers floated down to the lake's surface even as the dragon dived beneath the waves with its quarry. The two children continued to scream even after the dragon was out of sight. The feathers danced on the waves around them and gingerly the young boy touched one as his sister cried and tried to stay above the water. Neither one questioned as to why the feathers that swam with them were black as night...


Dilandau nearly screamed as the dream repeated in his mind. gods why wouldn't it let him go? Why wouldn't it leave him alone!? He nearly cried out in joy, his mother hadn't died. She was alive! She would be there always for Celena and him.
the voice repeated, only clearer than before. Dilandau listened to the voice and his heart sank, what little hope he'd raised from that dream shattered. It wasn't his mother's voice but another woman's but, not Celena's either. Gods... she was dead again. Dilandau, wake up... Wake up...
Unconsciously Dilandau wished to comply with the voice but he wasn't sure he could. It was so warm now, so warm and comfortable. He could sleep for eternity here...


It was the thrashing and the half whispers of pain that made Zorya nervous. She did not want to wake Dilandau up again, and didn't know what the hell had gotten into her when she nearly screamed at him. He could kill her in an instant, she knew that all too well... Despite that he'd saved her life that many times as well.
That coupled with the fact she'd never actually heard him say anything (word or noise) in pain before only made her anxiety double. What if that thing had been poisonous? What if a racrat came back, or worse a whole swarm since Dilandau was injured? She hadn't moved fast enough... hadn't drawn her blade fast enough...
Its my fault he got hurt... Oh shit what if it was poisonous? Zorya cast an almost worried glance at Dilandau's now still body. It had to be past noon as Zorya cast a futile glance up at the thick canopy. What if he did die this time? She still had a vague idea of how to get back but...
Zorya shook his shoulder, her eyes on his sword at all times. she did not want to be beheaded just for waking him up again. In her urgency Zorya lost her grip on his shoulder and touched his cheek.
Ice, he was cold as ice. Or death... she almost shouted. He couldn't be dead, he couldn't! She'd have no set way back to the castle. Fear, it was all around her again. Oh god, she was so afraid, so afraid... Wake up! The next this she did happened too quickly for her to stop herself. The sound of flesh hitting flesh seemed to echo off the trees around them. she barely saw the quick movement of his wrist but, she did feel his sword at her neck. She saw fear for a fleeting moment in those garnet eyes before an almost glazed over and murderous look overcame them. I should kill you for what you've just done, he snarled.


The memories of his almost-fever dream remained and he sneered at her. he was not a gentleman, no he'd never been one! He could kill a girl, he could strike one down for their impudence! The cold steel in his hand called to him, told him to cut her... Shut up! Or you'll join the dragon and my enemies in hell. The sword almost seemed to quiet, of course it could've all been a side effect of the slow acting poison.
But you won't kill me because you're sick Dilandau. You're cold as ice! she said steadily, her eyes never left his own. The fear was still in her voice, evident on her face as well.
I am not ill, Dilandau said darkly.
Then why is your hand shaking?


Dilandau was in nothing less than a black mood. He wasn't sick, the nymph was too old for its poison to be potent. It had to be something else, the nymph had to be too old... At least spend tonight in a warm room, she'd told him.
The horse's gallop was anything but rushed as it had been the night he set off after Zorya. the warm sun that threatened to set at any minute was not helping his mood. Especially when he did feel so cold. Golds, Zorya'd been right and if she hadn't woken him up... The redness left his cheek hours before but it still hurt to be hit by a woman... to be saved by a woman.
To have that woman sitting behind him, the black cloak draped over both of them. The heat was so close, so close to him. Faintly Dilandau could feel the dragenergist's pulse, mocking him. So close and yet so far.
Is that the town you talked about? her whispered words tickled the back of his neck.
he didn't have any energy to continue his sentence. About how close they actually were o the Hiwero front. How easily a spy could overpower him and take her away. How easily she could disappear from him... Stop it! Gods the nymph had to be too old for the poison to work... Gods why is it getting warmer if the sun's gone?



Zorya observed the small room with a look of disgust. There was no way they'd be able to rest here for a couple of days, especially not while he was in that condition. They'd found the Inn with relatively no trouble though getting Dilandau inside it was another matter. he didn't want to rest in this town, but if he was sick he'd only get worse if they rested in the forest again. Maybe he'd just caught a chill from when he went bathing in the lake. I hope that's all it is. I don't know what the hell to do if he's poisoned and the dragonslayers won't like it one bit if i go back without him.
He was trying to stand, to still be strong, to prove he was still worthy of his dragonslayers. At least that's what Zorya assumed he was standing for. Sit down Dilandau.
That's General to you, he stammered, his teeth chattering. Zorya's eyes widened slightly as she closed the distanced between them. Hadn't she noticed this before? Tentatively she reached out with one hand to feel his forehead, but he slapped the hand away.
Stop acting like some spoiled child. Are you sick or was that thing poisoned?
Get away from me, his voice low and almost hoarse. Zorya frowned, she wouldn't be able to help him at all if he wouldn't let her touch him. He staggered forward, at least he has some sense, and collapsed onto a bed. She almost didn't notice the blood on his left arm's armor. What are you staring at?
Dilandau, your arm's bleeding again.
It will stop.
Dilandau! That's not the attitude to take here, it could get infected and you could lose your arm. Dilandau feigned indifference, and rolled over, his back to her now. She remembered how cold his flesh had been only a few hours before but when she'd touched him briefly just now he burned like a fire. Zorya could see beads of sweat all along Dilandau's brow, a warm fever flush creeping on his cheeks.
Not allowing him to hear her frustration, Zorya tip-toed over to the bed. She could wait for him to go to sleep and then she could try and... She waited, hoping to hear slow and steady breathing. Just a few more minutes, I can wait, then he shouldn't wake up. Giving up temporarily, Zorya went to fill the water basins. No point in wasting time, she tried to keep her mind busy, rather than think back to what had just happened.


Dilandau's breathing slowed, he just needed rest and he'd be good as new to rejoin the slayers. Hell he had taken much worse wounds than this at the hands of the sorcerers, Folken and the dragon, and walked away. But still, why was he so cold? He began to shake and concentrated on being well again, of not being wounded, of being back at the castle alone, with the hunt ended. He didn't hear the door open or shut, not even after the room's other occupant began to move again...


Zorya shut the door quietly, afraid to wake the ill man. She couldn't see how he could be sick and not want help. When she was sick, she always wanted someone to be there for her, to comfort her. His slayers aren't here for him now, maybe that's why... Silently she walked over to him, his shaking more pronounced now than before she left.
He's such a fool. One day his sister will leave, and so will his slayers, what will he do then? Zorya gently took hold of his arm, and ever so slightly pulled on it, causing him to rock towards her onto his back. His face was contorted into pain and agony, even though he was asleep. Still, she couldn't be sure if he was even sleep or if it was some ploy. Why would he pretend to be asleep?
She already knew that Dilandau's wound had to be cleaned again or it would get infected. Not to mention his fever. At least the cold water she filled the basins with would bring down his fever a little. Oh who was she kidding? Zorya had no idea if what she was doing was right, aside from dressing his wound. They'd just need to wait for tomorrow when Zorya would be able to find the town's healer.
Oh just get it over with, she muttered, her hands going for the belt's buckle. The belt that held the sword and scabbard to their owner. Zorya managed to unbuckle it and was about to pull the belt through the white overlayer when he decided to wake up. He shot up so quickly that she didn't have any time to move her hands, which were now with the belt in a very uncomfortable place.


His eyes snapped wide open, aware someone was doing something. However, what he saw was not what he expected. He sat straight up expecting some enemy to be ready to slit his throat, instead he brought his face a mere inch away from Zorya's. Her own eyes were a bit wider than normal, she couldn't have expected him to be such a light sleeper. His hand had already reached for his sword though, but felt her hands... well... there.
They seemed to stare at each other for an eternity before finally both there eyes traveled to where their hands had fouled up. Why was she...? Dilandau, I can't wash your wounds if your armor and sword are still on.
He did a double take and watched as her hands removed the belt and scabbard. How had he jumped to the first conclusion? That was foolish, irrational... It wasn't like him. Now, off with the armor. As if in some sort of trance, Dilandau complied. He was still confused over how he had thought that Zorya even would think along the lines of... well... that.
She pulled the last piece of armor off, the dark red armor that covered his arms and chest beneath the breast plate. However, she definitely didn't look like Zorya at the moment. She smiled, one hand gently trailed down the side of his cheek, caressing it. You shouldn't fight it you know, she whispered, her face getting closer to his, though in her hand he could see a cloth. Probably for his head.
Fight... it? his voice amazingly weak despite the strength he felt residing in him.
she whispered again, her face just inches from his now. Her lips barely moved as she whispered it, his eyes fixated on them. Had he thought right before? Had she wanted something besides the sword? Her hand had trailed down his neck now and rested at his collar bone, making small circles in his skin just above his pale violet undershirt. she whispered her cool breath soothing to his warm skin.
I'm the General of the Dragonslayers, I can end the hunt when I chose or make it do what I want! I'm in control, I can have her if I want... A feral smile parted his lips for a split second just before his hands went up and around her, pulling her down to him. His warm lips sought out her cool pale lips and captured them in a kiss.
The fire! The fire he felt as he kissed her, burning him, burning his very soul! He hungered for that fire, to be with it... to actually be it! His lips crushed hers, his hands pulling her closer, and even closer. CLOSER! I need your fire!
A low moan escaped her lips as he pulled away briefly, only to feast on the skin of her neck, lower, lower... Hands pulled at him frantically, pulling him up to meet her. Yes, this was a glorious end to the hunt, a fitting end. The power he felt through their touch, their very embrace, it was enormous, almost exactly like the power he had felt with the Alseides... she moaned as his hands went to her armor's clasps.
Dilandau gasped as a cold cloth touched his forehead, breaking the vision. his voice weak and shaky at best.
Zorya gave him a strange look from the side of the bed. I said, you'll need rest to fight off whatever it is. But... but she... I ... why did I- He could feel the heat rush to his face, as the fever dream's images stayed with him. Your fever must be getting worse.