Harbored Secrets

The Hunt: Part 19
-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:
First I must apologize profusely for how late this is. I know I promised it would be out 4/28 but I got sick, visited a college, got swamped with work and review started for my five AP exams (one down four to go). So, my life is very hectic. I can't set a date for part 20 other than at the earliest two weeks from now. I can't get it out any earlier without killing myself (I'm still sick), killing my grades or APs. On a better note I finally won an award for my research! Bwahahaha and hence how I managed to get half of this done in one day. Again, thanks for your patience and here's a nice long 20 page part.
Um... I actually have no real notes for this, other than apologizing to Vanessa. Every time I tell you something's going to happen I always cut that part too short. So here's what I was telling you about. There is NUDITY in this part, again it could be done tastefully if made into anime or fanmanga...
Thankies go to everyone who's reviewed and especially my betas. Who despite their threats about putting a certain part in the story have been the greatest betas someone could hope for.
As for the apprentice's identity, I'd really appreciate your responses. From, Oh my god it was (so and so's name)! or, Holy @&#@ I didn't expect this! to, Don't want to review? Then e-mail me your response! Zibbelcoot@aol.com




Hitomi stared into the mirror, her features listless. Gingerly she put a hand to her cheek to be sure what she saw was really.
The reflection mimicked her ut no sound passed the mirror. Hitomi asked again. Her hand fell away from her face. she nearly screamed at the mirror.
She didn't need to worry about what her family thought. Nothing mattered, just like before... Only now there wasn't any song to take her away; to give her hope. It never happened... It never existed... Hitomi told herself bitterly. Just like her said. She made the world to give herself a purpose, to make her feel hope.
But if it was all a dream then where did Zorya go? What were the fires?
Nothing, your imagination, Hitomi whispered. Hitomi looked down at the sink and turned the water on. Water... water... Water everywhere, everywhere even there. She wouldn't have to worry about her family or friends... It wasn't like Yukari wasn't busy with that Amano guy. Nothing matters anymore. Nothing's real, Hitomi whispered as her fingers dipped into the filling basin. Nothing's real...
Hitomi's eyes rose from the water's surface to the mirror, not really wishing to see herself. At first Hitomi didn't even notice the second person in the mirror. Eyes with more grey than her own stared at her, unblinking. Her lips moved as Hitomi's eyes widened. It was just a dream... just a vision... just a dream... Hitomi's mind repeated over and over. That was when the sound started, barely above the din of the water's splashing against the ceramic surface.
Help... Hitomi... help... hitomi... Zorya's voice rasped in time with her moving lips. No, just a dream... just a vision... just a dream... Hitomi froze, barely aware as the water began to flow over the edge of the sink, passed her fingers. Zorya rasped once more and brought her right hand up. Blood... Blood fell from her palm and dripped to the floor. Hitomi couldn't believe her eyes and whirled around only to face nothing. Nothing but the sound of water dripping to the floor.
Hitomi whispered. Her water soaked socks squished when she turned to face the mirror again. Zorya was still there, only now fire danced from her blood and began to crawl up her arm. Hitomi raised one hand to the mirror to try and see if it was real.
The second she touched the mirror's cold glass it broke. A hairline crack ran up the flat plain. As Hitomi took a step back the fire engulfed Zorya. Zorya screamed at the top of her lungs. Silver shards flew everywhere as not just the mirror shattered but everything around Hitomi. The familiar feeling of nothing beneath her feet returned to Hitomi who could do nothing as she fell.
The sounds of pain and agony filled the void she fell through. Pleading, begging, screams, cries of it. Each sound worse than the last. Stop it... Stop it! Hitomi finally screamed. The weightlessness finally stopped but it wasn't because of Hitomi's protest.
Something was supporting her, holding her up from falling. As first Hitomi couldn't see it and didn't know what it was. From the darkness a shape emerged and Hitomi could do nothing but stare.


Zorya took a deep breath of the fresh air and reveled in the silence. Well, not quite silence. The air around her bustled with sounds of a village in high gear. The sun shone brightly overhead as if the storm clouds from the north would never reach this place. Of course, anything could be considered quiet after listening to Dilandau over the past twenty-four hours. What with his moaning and groaning in his sleep and then after the healer left. No more moaning, finally!
At least there was something mixed into the gurar paste that knocked him out. Zorya looked up at the sky, a beautiful pale blue just barely accented by a few passing clouds. I can still go, I can ask for directions and get back before him.
Would the pretty lady like a meat roll? You'll find no better food in all Celet, a merchant called, obviously recognizing her as a . A small smile played on Zorya's lips as she approached the market stalls. The village was along a trade route and well, maybe village was too small a term for it.
The older merchant had a variety of foods at his stall and focused his attention on Zorya as other village men and women alike browsed the other stalls. She highly doubted his food could compare to Waesir Palace's cuisine but at this point it was better than the rations she and Dilandau had to eat over the past few days.
Ah what the hell I can indulge for a little good food for once. Zorya gave the man a smile and her hand went to her side, the pouch with her gidaru at her side. What do you have?
Ah you made a fine choice young lady, I make only the best rolls in all Gaea. Here, pheasant and herb roasted at that, he said with his own smile, trying to convince her.
I'll take it.


Dilandau made no noise as he woke up. Pain, horrible horrible pain before when those two strangers were there. He sat up suddenly, the room spun as spots flew all over his vision. Where were they? Who were they?
He could barely remember something about Dallet, something about poison. Gods why was he so hot? Were they on the second continent? Nothing seemed to make any sense as he tried to sort it out. His hand went to his side to feel the familiar cold steel in his hand again. His fingers touched nothing but old bed linens. What the hell is going on here?! Dilandau screamed in his own mind rather than out loud.
Dilandau let out a primal snarl and flung the covers away from him. The people were gone, along with his sword. He growled and forced himself up. The pain in his arm flared up slightly but subsided to an annoying barely there buzz of pain. Not really caring Dilandau looked down at it. The violet lines had retreated and the area around the bandage didn't look too swollen.
If he lost his sword arm because of a nymph and Zorya's hysterics there would be hell to pay. He made a fist and grimaced when a searing pain traveled up his arm. Pain, there was pain but he could still move it. The swelling in his wrist went down to half its size but Dilandau barely noticed that.
Why was it so damned hot in the room? Beads of sweat continued to fall from his skin as Dilandau began to pull at his clothing. Gods it was too hot, he'd boil if he kept it on. Why by the gods is it so hot in here?! A grunt was the only sound Dilandau made as he peeled off the last things that made the heat so unbearable.
One thing down, only a few more to go... As soon as he found his sword they'd go. Although Dilandau's mind was too fuzzy from the poison to notice Zorya wasn't there and he no longer wore any armor. His arm was partially numbed to the pain now and that was all that mattered.
After several miets of searching Dilandau still couldn't find his sword. Which was not surprising considering the state he was in. Gurar chemicals along with the still active nymph poison flowed freely in his veins, clouding his judgment more than usual. That was probably not the best thing for Dilandau or, Zorya for that matter.
The sword consequently was on the floor, beneath the clothes he removed in his rush to be . Dilandau raked the room only once more before his anger (heightened by the gurar leaf paste) exploded. Zorya, his mind snarled as his thoughts went wild. Mostly along the lines of Zorya taking his sword on purpose, although why she'd do that Dilandau could care less. All that he cared about was finding is sword and Zorya.


Zorya had been enjoying the silence, in other words the no-Dilandauness of the town. She took a seat by the town square's fountain. It wasn't really a fountain but, more along the lines of a washing pool. Several women, grannies and children alike, were well into their loads of laundry as the sun sat above them.
She tried not to think about what her armor smelled like. I have a few extra gidaru, maybe it would pay to wait another day and get it cleaned, Zorya mused as she watched the little girls try to imitate their elders. She wouldn't' be able to wash the armor now though, the bulky breastplate was with the sleeping Dilandau in the tavern room.
At least, that's what Zorya thought. Her lunch went fairly well, and half the meat roll was gone before her day began to go downhill. At first Zorya wasn't even aware anything was wrong, aside from the almost complete silence of the women doing their laundry. That is until...
his voiced seemed to explode out of nowhere and nearly made Zorya choke on the roll in her mouth. The crowd of women seemed to clump together just as she saw his silver hair for a second before a rush of voices came from the women.
Drase, cover your eyes! Oh gods wait until the elders hear about this!
Doesn't he have any decency?!
Our town is not a place for some drunken asses, Nabil we're going now!
A few of the women rushed away with their half washed loads of clothing, making Zorya more nervous with each second that she only saw flashes of Dilandau's silver hair.
Frantically Zorya tried to scrunched down in her seat and finish her meal. Why couldn't anything go right just once? A swarm of the women in front of her hurriedly back away, all of them with disgusted and irritated looks on their faces.
That left Zorya an extremely clear path to Dilandau, lined with the remaining women (who were either newly wed, didn't care or still looking for a husband). Who either were blushing with embarrassment, giggling or trying to hide the smile on their faces.
If Zorya finished her lunch then maybe she would be like the rest of them. However she didn't get to finish it and was trying valiantly not to choke as her face turned red and Dilandau caught sight of her. He looked so upset and almost confused at the same time that it twisted his face into the oddest-
That was just nanoseconds before Zorya realized that Dilandau was wandering around without his armor, any of his armor. Zorya tried to gasp, to make some noise and instead nearly inhaled the piece of food in her mouth. While Dilandau continued towards her Zorya was more concerned with clearing her windpipe.
With all her coughing and trying to force out the errant food bit Zorya didn't hear Dilandau advance on her until he spoke again. Where is my sword Zorya!?
Zorya coughed and managed to swallow the food. She couldn't look at him, not when he wa like that and well... Zorya tried to keep her eyes on his face to not look at anything else.
Where is my sword?! Dilandau repeated again heatedly and without any indication that he cared about their audience. As the giggling increased however Zorya quickly stood up, trying to figure out why the hell Dilandau would wake up to ask her that in well his birthday suit.
It's in the-
I know where his sword is, one woman said in a low voice as she said it.
Dilandau growled and turned around.
I can show you if you come with me, the woman insisted and Zorya got to her feet, her eyes on the woman. Those other women probably went to tell someone and now Dilandau's going to get us thrown in the town jail for indecent exposure. Great, just great. So much for being inconspicuous.
Where's my sword?! Dilandau thundered which made a few of the women scatter. Zorya was sorely tempted to run herself and leave him there. Instead she grabbed a half washed article of clothing and, despite the fact she didn't want to, walked over to Dilandau. Trying hard not to look anywhere but his face Zorya threw the garment at his nether region.
Let's go Dilandau, she said in a no-nonsense voice and gave the woman a piercing glare as she grabbed Dilandau's upper arm. Dilandau failed to cover himself or hold the wet garment and his eyes were still on the woman.
She has my sword, he growled and fought against Zorya's hands, dislodging the half hazardly adorned garment. Why me? Why can't he just be sane for a little while!? Zorya's other hand barely kept the garment in place on his hips. And as hilarious as the scene might've looked from one of the on lookers Zorya didn't find it funny at all.


Balen tried his best not to look scared or nervous. Two of the three sorcerers were in the room, a none too inviting room as well. The wall were dark with soot or dirt, the one window covered by a dark cloth. The single point of light was a candle before the sorcerers that cast off grotesque shadows over the lines on their faces.
They're monsters, he thought for a moment before they broke the silence. Where is your leader dragonslayer? one spoke though it looked as if his lips didn't move at all.
Balen held his head that much higher, his chestnut eyes defiant. He would be loyal to Dilandau-sama to the end, even if it meant his end.
He's not going to talk, someone behind the sorcerer's said quietly. Too quietly for Balen to distinguish if they were a man or woman. One sorcerer turned his head to glance at them but Balen was still denied that.
You made it, good. Zongi is on his way, the sorcerer on the left said smugly. The one of the right turned back to face Balen, a stern look on the face of the sorcerer in the center.
Where is your leader? the one in the center asked again. Balen fought back the terror he felt rise in his throat, of how similar to the Barren Lands this was... Dilandau-sama isn't here now though... Dilandau-sama...
He would stay silent for his General, he would be strong, stronger than Adim probably had been. He's not talking why not kill him now?
Why waste more of the dragonslayers that Zongi can extract information from? the voice from before piped up.
Our apprentice is right Garufo. Zongi, this one is of no use to us. You may take him. Balen's muscles stiffened, his eyes darting all around the room as he waited for some other guard to take him away. He saw nothing, nothing but the sorcerers in front of him and the walls around-
One of the walls twisted and in no time a man dropped from them, his body unclothed but covered in white and navy markings. A dopp- Balen barely begun to shout when the thing placed its hand on either side of his face. All conscious thought fled Balen and his body fell to the floor seconds later, a dried husk of armor and skin.


A side effect of the gurar paste and the nymph's poison. That's all I can tell you. Although it isn't all that common- the healer's words echoed in Zorya's head as she placed more gurar paste on Dilandau's wound. The edges were a healthy red pinkish shade and the skin around it pale as usual.
She didn't bother to hide the frown on her face, not after all the trouble Dilandau put them through. Especially not after she had to drag him away and Dilandau was definitely stronger than he looked. He only stopped fighting her when she finally shouted at him that she had his sword and as soon as he was dressed in their room she'd give it to him.
A comment that made her ears turn red as the laughter of the few bolder women stayed to watch them. That of course happened nearly an hour ago, and Zorya placed a fresh bandage over the wound. She didn't dare look at Dilandau's face and concentrated on fixing it in place as tightly as she could. was all she said to him and stood up.
Dilandau flexed his arm and made a fist when she took a step back. His face was clear of anything that made him run around looking for his sword only a day ago. Zorya walked back to the cot and sat down, a puff of dust wafting into the air as she did so. Dilandau immediately ignored her, not even saying thanks when he picked up his sword and began to polish it.
Who was Dallet? Zorya asked from her perch on the cot. Dilandau's hands froze for a moment, the buffing cloth still on the sword. He didn't answer as she thought he would but went on polishing his sword.
He looked up at her then, and it was one of those times Zorya couldn't read hi face. He's of no importance to you, he replied gruffly and went back to his sword.
Zorya forced her legs to stop swinging idly and almost got off the bed. It doesn't matter? He was a soldier and the healer's assistant was his brother, Zorya persisted. Dilandau made a noise and focused on his sword again. Zorya hid her annoyance momentarily, after all the little she knew about him was Celena was his twin and his opposite, that and he was young and a general. At least Zorya assumed being a General at such a young age was a major accomplishment for anyone on this world. His dragonslayers would do anything for him. Anything...
Did he die for you or because of you? Zorya asked carefully and waited for his reaction.
The cloth continued to move, Dilandau's eyes downcast. Oh yea this was a good idea. Silent treatment all the way back to the castle. Wait, that could be a good thing... Zorya pushed herself off the cot, her rest short lived, and walked for the door. There wouldn't be a problem with leaving him alone now with the poison almost completely out of his system and the gurar paste's counteragent keeping him as sane as he was before.
You can't leave.
I am not going to be stuck in here while you give me the silent treatment. I'm curious and if you won't tell me what I-
If you spread the fact we're from Waesir and on Hiwero's list anymore than you've already done they'll be here in no time.
Zorya gave him a dry look and rested one hand on the doorknob. You're why they found out in the first place. Do I have to remind you about what happened? Zorya's voice held a hint of annoyance and boredom in it. Dilandau kept his face down. With the flickering candle light and waning moonlight Zorya couldn't be sure what the expression on his face was. I am not going to stay in this room, she repeated and began to turn the doorknob.
Dilandau looked up briefly and put his sword to the side. I wouldn't unless you want to be a princess for the rest of your life. They'll capture you easily and destroy the dragenergist, Dilandau said in a near threatening tone, as if he were admonishing her for her childish thoughts.
One dark red eyebrow went up at his words but her hand remained on the doorknob. That's assuming Hiwero's even on its way here. They may be at home in their beds happy to be home. Besides even if they were here and did capture me I'd still be considered a princess wouldn't I? And that would mean I'd get treated civilly, maybe even be treated as their guest. King Kaele would arrange for my return or maybe something could get worked out between the two to end this war. Hiwero has a prince if I remember what Celena told me right... I wonder if he's the type to try and sweep a princess off her fee-
They'd kill you and make you an example. Or didn't Celena tell you that? Dilandau snapped. Zorya's eyebrow twitched and she turned the knob but didn't open the door. Why the hell was she still in here? She should be outside by now trying to find the assistant if she really wanted to know who Dallet was. He was a soldier, Dilandau finally said, his eyes on the sword at his side.
Zorya would probably never know just how much she was pushing her luck by trying to find out about one insignificant death in a war that claimed thousands.
He died during the Dragon War, Dilandau continued but paused.
Celena told me about that. His eyes rose to meet hers, the garnets both frozen and on fire at the same time.
What else did she tell you? His eyes narrowed suspiciously and Zorya released her hold on the doorknob. This was better than the silent treatment... she hoped.
That all of Gaea was affected. Why
Dilandau smirked then, his eyes bright with joy and a light chuckle escaped him. That was the greatest war of all time, he practically breathed and a hand went to his left cheek; the fingers stroking the skin gently. Zorya waited for him to elaborate and was disappointed with Dilandau's silence. It was almost as if he were in a trance. He snapped out of it after Zorya took a step away from the door.

Well what? he almost snapped, his hand gone from his cheek.
We're not leaving until everyone's asleep and I'm not going to talk to myself. Besides, how can any war be so great and wonderful? Dilandau merely grinned at that and Zorya resumed her seat on the cot, across from Dilandau in his chair and sword on the small table in the room. His eyes clouded over with memories in a show of delight on his face. The battles, the battles were what made the Dragon War great, he started slowly. The war itself was pointless. I knew the Black Dragon Empire wouldn't last long.
Then why fight it? That's the point of a war, to have something to fight for what you believe, Zorya asked, confusion covering her features.
Because it was there. Anything, even fighting for Lord Folken's deluded causes, Dilandau snorted and cast his eyes to the candle on the table with his weapon. Was better than the Barren Lands. He gave me power, the chance to be a true General, he murmured to himself.
And that's how you got the dragonslayers?
How I got my soldiers is of no concern to you, Dilandau said tersely and tore his eyes away from the candle. Only that I have always been and will always be their superior. Their lives were mine to do with as I pleas-
Zorya started but was cut off by the coherent General.
That is the only way to command someone. With their lives in my hand they can do nothing but strive to be the best. If you weren't lacking in intelligence maybe you'd understand that concept.
I'm not one of your dragonslayers, you can't call me whatever you feel like, Zorya fumed at being insulted for no reason. And you're not one to talk, not after you couldn't find your sword.
Dilandau shut up, momentarily anyway, the grin gone from his face. You can become a princess, tolerate the slander your subjects and fellow countries will throw at you but, you won't be called stupid? That's the-
I'm probably smarter than you and your slayers, Zorya retorted, and crossed her arms over her chest, her eyebrows lowered. Dilandau's grin returned at her show of agitation. He must love doing this to anyone he can.
A few of my slayers perhaps but, not myself and certainly not most of them. Besides, you're weaker than even the newest slayer, Dilandau scoffed.
What does being weak have to do with intelligence? Men are stronger physically but-
There is nothing in all of Gaea and wherever the hell you're from that could make you half as strong as one dragonslayer, Dilandau hissed.
Oh so to be strong you have to not care about your life at all? Wow, that is such a difficult requirement to fill, Zorya mocked him and stood up again. This time Dilandau didn't even try to stop her as she nearly slammed the door behind her.


Gatty called softly. The screaming and sharp punctuated breaths had ceased in the younger slayer's cell. The only problem was that Shesta hadn't called out once or acknowledged them since he quieted.
Gatty, I think he's.... Latro began but couldn't finish. Gatty's throat began to constrict, pain forcing him to swallow. Shesta couldn't be dead, not after the boy lived through so much. If he heard you call him a boy he'd be upset, Gatty's thoughts tried to distract him. It was true that the majority of the slayers looked their age but Shesta still had a boyish face and that innocence in his eyes. It made him look like as if he were still the newest recruit of the dragonslayers while it was nearly the opposite...
Only Ryuon, Shesta and himself were the surviving active dragonslayers. Latro, Edere, Balen, Cial, Biore, Diavol, Korent and Vanator were the reserve dragonslayers. At all times there were always fifteen dragonslayers but only seven received the active duty. Lord Dilandau chose Migel, Dallet, Guimel, Shesta, Jajuka, Ryuon and himself for that honor. An honor that killed four dragonslayers.
It was a risk they all accepted, if only to protect Lord Dilandau from harm. Each of them would readily give their lives for him. It should be in battle, not in a cell, Gatty's mind screamed as Shesta remained silent. He was the second in command, he should've kept them rallied together, should've told Shesta not to use his powers...
The sound of footsteps on the stone floor forced Gatty to reevaluate his situation. The monsters were back for a fourth victim, someone to join Balen, Edere and Adim on the walk of the dead. His left hand reached for the dagger still concealed within his boot. If they chose him he would not go down without a fight.
The footsteps were muffled by a dragging noise, as if the two guards weren't alone. The door to a cell closer to the front of the row opened and something was dropped inside with a thud. The guards left after they deposited it and left the remaining dragonslayers baffled. Gatty questioned, his hand away from the dagger.
It's Balen. He looks beaten but, he's alive, Latro replied almost as if he didn't believe his eyes.


By the time Zorya got back from her walk she was much calmer as well as tired. She just wanted to get back to the castle and get Galese back. As much as she hated to admit it Galese was prepared to take over the throne of Celet one day and she was not. Zorya shut the door quietly when she saw Dilandau was already asleep. Why am I not surprised? How can anyone like him go to sleep so easily?
Zorya watched him and cursed herself under her breath. He looked almost normal now and when he slept like that... Why am I here again? To save people? To change fate? Why did you bring me here?
Because you wished it. You wanted it and so I gave you it. Zorya looked at Dilandau again and brought her hands to her face, covering it from him should he awake at any moment. I didn't wish for this... I didn't wish this... I didn't want this. Zorya's mind cried weakly to whatever voice was listening.
She'd been so afraid of him, so afraid that she'd barely managed to notice even one thing about him aside from that frightening laugh, bloodthirsty eyes and silver hair. But now, now that she was so afraid of being left alone here, at the thought of Dilandau leaving her to find her own way back. It scared her more than the General did himself. At least now, well he was under the influence of something obviously, he wasn't so scary. It was those moments of normality that were beginning to scare her more than the side of Dilandau that threatened to end her life so many moons before.
Moons before, I'm thinking like one of these Gaeans now. I'm never going to get to go home am I?
If you wish to return home, then your wish shall be granted when our land is saved.
Zorya mulled over the voice's words, her eyes unfocused on the spot Dilandau slept. Home... where was home? Was it on Gaea, in Celet where she learned to assimilate into the alien culture? Or was it on earth, in that small town with customs and and objects that seemed so alien to her now?
She was so confused now, over everything. She didn't feel like she fit in on Gaea but even now she wasn't sure if she'd fit in on Earth. How would she go back to all of that? That's a stupid question. Anyone would skip out on this to go back someplace where they won't get killed by silver haired soldiers or tricked by princesses or eaten by dragons. Zorya looked down from Dilandau and held one hand draped over her eyes as she leaned back on the floor, into her makeshift bed of extra clothing and cloaks. If it's such an easy choice to pick why can't I do that?


The cold lake water weighed the two youngsters down even as they trudged onto the shore. The dragon, the horrible death that snatched their mother way only a few minutes before had not rose its head even once more to take another for its meal. Momma, Dilandau's mind still called out in a last resort.
Storm clouds darkened the sky above them, the sun's rays not daring to touch either twin.
What Celena? Dilandau asked wearily, his eyes just as red and puffy as his sister's. His wings continued to drag in the dark sand. The feathers stained by blood, his own and his mother's, and sand. He didn't even know how to get rid of them. Would he never be able to fly again because they were broken?
What do we do now? she sniffled. Dilandau's anger began to rise as he thought over the situation, of how unfair it was to a child his age. How cruel fate chose to be against someone so young.
I don't know, he almost growled and shut his eyes against the tears he felt that wanted to fall. Why do I even have wings, I couldn't save Momma... Why are you even here?!? Dilandau's mind screamed loud enough to make his sister gasp. In that second of anger, of absolute hatred his wings disappeared from his back into a sea of feathers.
The stained feathers barely had a chance to fly on the wind as rain began to fall. Each feather was stuck down as the cold drops fell, unheeding to their need to fly. The rain felt good against Dilandau's back, where the wings had been. Celena began to whimper beside him, tears and rain flowing down her cheeks.
Someone will come for us Celena, I'm sure someone will be looking for us, Dilandau said softly even though he didn't believe his words. Lightning lit up the sky briefly, belying the fact both rain and tears ran down his face anew.


Dilandau sat up on his cot as he woke and watched Zorya, scrunched up on the floor. Cautiously Dilandau allowed his block to drop but didn't feel Celena, not immediately. Something was bothering her, something that had to do with him... his slayers perhaps.
His lips turned downward in a familiar frown and he folded his hands in his lap in thought. Usually it was something only his sister or Jajuka witnessed but neither one was there now. No one was there... If Gatty allowed any of them out of line I'll discharge them from the dragonslayers myself, Dilandau thought grimly. There was only one way a dragonslayer could be relieved of duty, four of his previous slayers had already discovered that.
It was that stray thought that made him think back to what Zorya said, to her questions about Dallet. The slayer had been vain, a little too vain for Dilandau's slayers but curbed it once he discovered the consequences. The Barren Lands had robbed them of what little vanity each of them clung to, what each of them cherish and Dallet's backlash with Folken's freedom was not something Dilandau tolerated.
Still, it was a pity that Dallet had been so weak. If he'd only maneuvered his horse closer to the volcano's rim like Ryuon or Shesta... Then he might've been saved like Gatty. Unfortunately weak was still weak and Dallet obviously hadn't been strong enough to remain in his slayers. An acceptable loss if Dilandau was to be strong and to have the strongest of Gaea under his command.
As his mind went over the conversation he continued to watch her. She wasn't all she appeared to be. What Takaru said all those moons ago could possibly be true about her being the goddess of wings. He couldn't quite remember how she'd gotten him back to the room after his little excursion, it was almost completely fuzzy and indecipherable.
His eyes traveled to the closed windows and no light forced its way through the cracks. All he needed was a few hours of sleep after all and then they could leave, although now he didn't feel tired at all. The garnet orbs went to his right arm and the bandage that still covered his arm. It would be a liability to bring the medication with them but, he did not want to lose his arm.
He got off the bed and walked over ot the window, idly pushing one shutter to the side. Dilandau didn't expect to actually see anyone milling about in the middle of the night. Both silver lines came downward as the garnets beneath them saw the scene before the tavern. A whole unit of Hiwero soldiers, all talking to a few of the town's elders. So much for the rest Dilandau hoped for.
A cruel grin pulled at his lips as he began to count them. There were more than he could handle but that didn't matter. He could almost hear his sword sing to him of the sweet deaths he'd deliver to them. If he was by himself it was even possible for him to take down all of those soldiers but with Zorya here... Dilandau let out a feral growl and shut the window and turned to face her. She was still asleep, her cheek lying on her folded hands. She'll slow us down if I try to kill them all. And then she'll get killed or she'll get us both killed.
He cast a glance over his shoulder, the Hiwero troops making noises as if they were heading off for the night. If they traveled here it was probable they'd be heading to Waesir. As The General employed by Celet's king he would not let that happen. Dilandau began to move across the room and snatched up his first layer of armor. His next act was to bend down and roughly shake Zorya's shoulder. He had to be insane if he was actually waking her up...
Mmm, wah? What? What's going on? Zorya mumbled sleepily as her eyes fluttered open once and closed again. Her hands batted at his gently but Dilandau caught them in iron grips.
Wake up now, he hissed and released her. Zorya's eyes shot open and her hands retreated to wipe at her eyes.
What the hell-
Hiwero is here and unless you want to be captured I suggest you get up, Dilandau told her quickly and snapped his leather armor on. He reached for his breastplate but his right hand spasmed just as his fingers tightened around it.
How can they be here? What are we going to do? Zorya asked, her voice groggy as she stood up slowly. Dilandau allowed the spasm in his hand to stop before he picked up the breastplate and put it on.
With you here, nothing. I can kill half of-
Nothing with your sword arm. It's still injured, Zorya interrupted him and grabbed his forearm to prove her point. Dilandau bit down on his lip in pain and jerked his arm from her grip, nearly striking her down in the process. So what's plan B?
We leave, Dilandau repeated and pulled his white overlayer on with his scabbard and sword.
But they'll still get to Waesir, maybe even before us. Dilandau pulled on his gloves and tested his right hand once more. As much as he didn't want to admit it his right hand and arm were sluggish, he wouldn't be able to move quick enough. But that's what my blood is for, he thought almost giddily.
We'll just have to get there faster. Or are you too weak to keep up? he told her gruffly and threw the supply bag at her. Zorya barely managed to catch it as she was pulling on one of her boots.
All right just drop the weak act right now. What if we could stall them?
Not possible, we can't kill them all. Dilandau crossed his arms over his chest and waited as Zorya slipped her foot into the other boot and stood up, the black cloak around her and the supply bag over one shoulder.
I didn't say we had to kill them all. But if they don't have supplies they'll get slowed down right? She was rubbing the bridge of her nose as she thought. It was as if that helped to speed her thought processes. One eyebrow went up and Dilandau's arms fell from his chest. She might've been weaker than himself and the dragonslayers but seemed to be thinking all right.

Then I have a plan, Zorya said with a hint of a smile.


Zorya cast a nervous glance over her shoulder as Dilandau walked ahead of her, his white overlayer practically called out for someone to attack him. You should've taken the cloak, Zorya hissed and rushed to catch up to him as he widened the gap between them.
I can handle myself. Here, this is where they put their supplies, Dilandau said in a whisper and pulled open a door to a building not far from the tavern. Zorya was about to ask him how he knew that when she checked inside and saw the piles of supplies that only an army could horde. That brought the question of how the troops managed to bring it into the town in the first place. This town's on the border, they've been stock piling it for the army for a while it looks like, he nearly growled.
Okay... so we can't get rid of it easily, Zorya mumbled and took a step inside. Dilandau remained in the door way, just to the right of her.
The plan? Dilandau whispered though in the silent night it sounded as if he'd spoken normally.
To drag this stuff off, Zorya said nervously as she took in the amount of supplies in the building. But there's too much to do that.
Zorya took a few more steps into the storage building. They're building up for a major assault. Gingerly Zorya reached out and brushed her fingertips with a stacked bunch of blankets. Everything was so dry to the touch, almost as if... If we can't drag it away we can destroy it. That'll their assault down and maybe even the troops Dilandau saw. But what to use...
Zorya knew the answer to that thought before she even took a step back in shock. She didn't want to use it... What if it tried to take her? What if it didn't take her home?
For the moment Zorya ignored that Dilandau was watching her with what might've been considered concern as she nearly stumbled backwards into another pile of blankets. If we can destroy this, that'll slow them down right? Zorya managed to keep her voice calm even at the prospect of what she was about to suggest.
A smile lit up Dilandau's face and he stepped into the building, his eyes assessing what she just said. Yes, enough for us to prepare for their next assault, he chuckled maliciously. His eyes focused on hers, with a disturbing clarity in them. But by what?
Zorya said with a shudder and walked out of the building.


Dilandau didn't fidget as he waited for Zorya to return, he was deathly calm. The fire had to be tended just right if it were to engulf the building. The smile on his lips grew as the fires danced in his mind, the possibilities endless. The black stallion beside him snorted and pawed the ground as Dilandau's excitement spread to his steed.
Just then Zorya rounded the edge of the tavern, the black cloak's hood up and the torch in her right hand. No light penetrated her cowl and it gave her the appearance of a messenger of death; one more thing that made his smile grow and his eyes dance. Zorya said and finally pulled back her hood. Her hair, the color of a dying fire danced as the amber light washed over her.
She held out the flame to him and Dilandau took it eagerly. The torch flickered as he held it for a moment, in awe of the beauty it possessed and spread. Fire... it was the only thing he would truly love in all his life, at least that's what he assumed only a few short months ago. Even now as he held it in his hands he was drawn to watch Zorya who took the stallion's reins from him. What are you waiting for? Go! The more time we waste the more likely they'll catch us, Zorya hissed and backed the stallion up a bit.
Dilandau chuckled under his breath and turned to the building. If he still commanded Death the whole building would've been burned to ashes in less than a miet at his mere thought of it. I'll just have to do this the old fashioned way.
A low chuckle spilled from his lips as he walked inside the building, any fear of his own death not apparent in his face or stature. He walked to the end of the building, opposite of Zorya waiting for him at the entrance. Almost reverently Dilandau tipped the torch downward and allowed its flames to spill outward onto the bags of grain. The yellow and orange light licked at the canvas bags even as Dilandau moved on, spreading the fire as he went. The chuckle had grown to a thunder of gleeful giggles as Dilandau turned and thrust the torch into a stack of blankets that caught fire immediately. Yes... burn... BURN! he shouted in pure joy, his pupils tiny pinpricks in his pools of garnet.
Dilandau! They're coming! Zorya shouted to him, the fear very evident in her voice as she continued her calls but he was too busy watching the fires move with such grace and beauty. Dilandau felt his arm jerked in one direction and barely registered Zorya pulling him from the steadily growing inferno. Dilandau the Hiwero guards are coming! she nearly shouted in his ear but Dilandau was oblivious. All that mattered was his half grown blaze.
Burn! BURN! he screamed in near ecstasy and was pulled from his beautiful vision as Zorya ripped the torch from his hand. His visions of a beautiful blaze was shattered the moment she did that and Dilandau fought the urge to slap her as he would a dragonslayer. She held the torch in her hands now and with the defiant look on her face she looked-
Do something to stall them a little longer so I can finish this. I can't believe he just stood there, she muttered the last sentence but Dilandau managed to catch it. The black stallion was on his left and he could see the Hiwero troops, their armor not completely fastened and their weapons not held as tightly as they should've been, advancing on the building.
Now I get to have my fun, Dilandau chuckled darkly and braced himself. Zorya was scurrying around the building, lighting the roof and front as the troops got ever closer. He let out a chilling laugh as he forced his power outward, forced his power to knock the troops back into each other. Five dead after being impaled on a fellow soldier's weapon, three dead by snapped necks and backs. Dilandau took in an unsteady breath and continued his joyful giggles as the troops writhed in pain from his attack.
He didn't waste another moment and got his feet into the saddle's stirrups and turned the horse around. The troops were getting up, they were still preparing to- Out of the corner of his eye Dilandau barely managed to catch two troops on the other side of him, their weapons drawn as their target threw the torch into the flaming building's entrance. All right let's go- Zorya was cut off as the stallion came to a screeching halt next to her, preventing the men from charging her themselves. She fell backwards and nearly into the burning structure that she'd helped to set ablaze. His sword was drawn in the second it took his horse to charge them and the next both men were on the ground, their blood a fiery red as it pooled onto the ground. Give me some warning next time! Zorya protested and tried to scoot away from the fires.
Dilandau's eyes weren't on her but on the troops that were for the most part on their feet and looked like they'd charge any second now. Get up! Dilandau roared at her and the stallion whinnied once as he pulled back on the reins. Zorya didn't need any other encouragement and stood up so quickly she dropped the bag of supplies at the edge of the blaze.
The bag- Zorya started to complain but Dilandau already had a hold of one of her hands. He pulled her up behind him and gave the charger a kick to send them off in the other direction. It didn't matter if he killed those troops today, the day they met with him next would be their last...


Zorya dismounted the horse and Dilandau easily joined her only moments later. They rode all night since setting the supply building on fire. Dilandau took hold of the reins of the lathered black stallion and gave him a quick pat as Zorya looked down at her side. Zorya pushed aside the black cloak to pat her hip and felt the pouch where the familiar sphere that could only be the dragenergist was. She placed the cloak back in place just as Dilandau handed her the reins to the stallion. What are we here for? Shouldn't we get to Waesir as fast as possible?
Dilandau began to walk away not bothering to give her even a backwards glance as he spoke. Supplies. You dropped what we had at the border. We won't last if it a blizzard brews on the way back. If we're going to make it back you better not make the same mistake again. Zorya didn't say anything in reply to that, only watched his back as he walked away into the town. A town not unlike the one they were just at. Just another day or two of traveling and this'll all be over. The chill in the air, the crisp smell of snow waiting to fall at any moment.
She began to slowly walk the horse around to cool him down temporarily until Dilandau got back. Zorya was so caught up in walking the horse back and forth, and the sounds and smells of the new town that she didn't hear anyone walk up behind her. Don't worry you'll get through it.
Zorya stopped the horse abruptly and turned around to face an old woman half her height and stooped over an intricately carved walking stick. Excuse me? Zorya watched the old woman's face, her own visage contorted with confusion.
Men never really say what they mean to. He didn't mean it, the older woman nodded as se said it. Zorya a small knowing smile as she said that. Zorya rolled her eyes and brushed at her bangs as the wind blew them into her eyes.
You don't know Dilandau, Zorya muttered under her breath.
Still, you two look like such a nice couple. Now a days you always see the men off without their partners. It's so refreshing to see you two- It took Zorya's mind a second to realize what the woman was implying and Zorya took a step back. The black horse, whose reins she still held, let out a light snort.
No! No, no, no, you have it all wrong! I'm not with, I mean we're not, what I meant was, Zorya blubbered. I mean I'm not attached, Zorya managed to get out without tripping over her tongue. The old woman's eyes went wide for a moment in a look that read could of fooled me. The look soon turned to one of scrutiny as the older woman looked her over.
Is there something wrong with you? When I was your age I already had a child, the woman questioned her and gave her another look.
What? No there's nothing wrong with me. Zorya took a step to the side as the old woman stared at her.
Oh, then why aren't you and him like you said? I mean I'm sure my grandson Keefe thinks that you're pretty enough to take home, the old woman said suddenly. A young man, collecting vegetables at a cart behind the old woman looked up quickly a look of horror creeping on his face.
No really, we're just here to get supplies and- The old woman ignored Zorya and turned to her wide eyed grandson, who was taller than both women as he stood up.
Keefe do you think she's pretty? Would you like to-
Nana, please can't you leave the nice girl alone? The old woman answered him by poking him in the shins with her walking stick.
Answer my question. I'm sure you find my grandson attractive don't you honey? See Keefe, now don't you think she'd be a nice girl to bring home to your mother? Zorya was speechless at just how relentless the old woman was. The young man looked from his grandmother to Zorya and then his face flushed.
Well, you are-
See! Now why don't you come by the house for some dinner eh? Get to know my Keefe better, the old woman said in too cheerful tone.
I really can't, I'm sorry-
You want to hurt my grandson's feelings? You said you and that other fella weren't-
Zorya, what's going on? Dilandau's voice broke the old woman's words and for once the she didn't look like she'd continue speaking. Keefe's cheeks still held a red tinge from a few miets before.
N-nothing, come on let's go, Zorya said too quickly. She turned her head to see Dilandau glowering at the two . the little old lady took a step forward, her face scrunched up in a frown, completely unafraid of Dilandau or too senile to care who he was.
You have no idea how a woman should be treated. Why that young lady deserves someone like my Keefe, the old lady said bluntly and tapped her walking stick on the ground for emphasis. Zorya was about to cringe when she saw Dilandau's cheek twitch. She remembered seeing him do that once before right before he'd sent Latro away and... Zorya's eyes widened a little remembering just what might've happened and Dilandau took a step forward, barely putting himself between Zorya and the little old lady and the grandson.
Dilandau said nothing, only stared down the little old lady who when she began to fidget turned his cold garnet eyes on the boy. Whatever remnants of the blush on his cheeks disappeared in seconds and even he began to fidget and took a step back as Dilandau allowed one corner of his lips to curve upwards in a vicious smile. Let's go, he said darkly under his breath and turned so quickly Zorya didn't react in time. He took hold of the horse's reins and began to walk away. When Zorya didn't follow quite so readily, after all he might've traumatized the poor old woman, Dilandau gave her a look. Zorya looked between the old woman and Dilandau trying to think of something to say. Dilandau rasped and grabbed her by her arm and pulled her away towards him and the horse.
If you change your mind you know where to find us! the old woman called as Dilandau settled himself in the saddle and pulled Zorya up before she could say anything. She was more confused now that she was before, after all Dilandau had his dragonslayers and he had them for a reason but when Latro and the old woman...
You're more trouble than you're worth, Dilandau muttered and shot the old woman and young man one more look before setting his charger into a gallop.


Takaru looked at the mirror, scrutinizing it. He didn't see anything in there now, just his reflection. he asked softly, searching his own blue green eyes for an answer.
What Takaru? was the faint reply he received. Takaru sat back, his eyes never leaving the mirror.
Something's not right. Can't you feel it? The reflection mimicked Takaru perfectly with each movement he made, when Ricpen chose to speak however the reflection was still as stone.
I'm not sure... I can't think very clearly right now.
That's just it. Everything is fuzzy. I'm not sure what I'm thinking anymore is what I'm thinking, Takaru tried to explain, his voice mellow and soft. It was a far cry from the Takaru that only a day or two ago had exploded at the princess since he was in control.
I think I understand but, I'm not sure. I don't remember much now from my own existence but I can remember from you. I can see you walking down corridors and then when you tried to kill-
Shut up! Takaru's outburst quieted the voice but not himself. He folded his hands in front of him and rested his chin on it. The chair he sat it was a dark green as they were still in Celet territory. It made his eyes flash green for a moment... I can barely remember that but it still hurts. Besides, she brought it up before and I don't need to hear it again, he grumbled in an apology to himself. His eyes seemed to change as he shifted in his chair, returning to the peaceful blue green from before.
Sorry, it's just that... Why do I remember that better than the time I spent in the castle or my tenth birthday at the Gardens of Oceania? Takaru what's happening?
I don't know. The gardens... they were beautiful though, with hanging potted plants and the trellises of roses, Takaru trailed off as he fell into a memory not his own.
Were they... Takaru what about the princess and Zorya, what are these memories? You had to kill one?
Yes, and now we have to marry the other. I don't want to Ricpen, Takaru said softly and didn't notice the second person in the mirror.
Neither do I, not forcefully. You know, if this war didn't start I'd probably be betrothed to her anyway. Irony is wonderful isn't it?
Not really, Takaru murmured just as the second person hit the room's door on purpose. Takaru shifted his eyes from his reflection to the person reflected at the door. What do you want?
Kuaru needs your help with the brat, Refina commanded. He observed she kept her face to one side and tried to make sure he couldn't see the next. Takaru could faintly remember how she looked younger, when Lord Folken recruited them. She'd been so happy then... What are you staring at?!
Takaru snapped himself out of his little memory but failed to respond quickly enough. Ricpen answered for him. Refina's face was to him now and he could see a horrible bruise washed all along one side. The sorcerer did that?
She nearly killed the princess, she's lucky Alseides isn't feeding on her, Takaru informed Ricpen and stood up.


Syrun listened to the three sorcerers intently as they spoke amongst themselves. The princess was not receptive to their plan, Celet would need to be taken by force. Paruchi turned to face Syrun then, his face impassive. We have another job to do Syrun.
At Syrun's silence Garufo took a step forward but was restrained by Foruma. What is it? he finally asked and shifted his weight slightly.
We need you to reach the princess, the one at the outpost. Make her love our creation, Paruchi said with a disgusting smile. Creation, all of this for the power to... Syrun kept his lips in a firm line however and did not give into the frown he wanted to show them. This was no longer in their original plans and therefore he didn't have to do it...
That wasn't part of our agreement. The musical voice didn't sway the sorcerers however.
Ah but you must solidify their union. Without a spell there shall be none, Paruchi insisted in an even voice. Syrun said nothing and let his eyes focus on the floor beneath them. He had to do this... he had to... It was not what he was about to do that saddened him most but, the fact that the sorcerer's apprentice was already there to try and undo what spell Syrun would weave.
Sora, I'm sorry but its worth it... isn't it? Syrun closed his eyes in preparation and began to sing his spell, calling to the two... Around him he could barely hear the frantic whispers of the sorcerers.


Galese was admiring the small view she had in her cell when a strange feeling overcame her. It felt as if someone was behind her but, there was no one there just the hairs standing on end on the back of her neck. She wrote it off as just her nerves from her still sore body and battered mind.
But there was something that she could barely hear, as if a draft was whistling between two stones in the cell's walls. As if it were singing something... Vi attede en lun, de simo fiden visse, de simo fiden omiese. Luminae si de cra-ru en nux. De cravi... Galese could barely catch the half formed words but what were they? Certainly not in her own language.
Fin dein a loluca en monete genki. Ziren kervale en feluna for entina. Fiden ki, fiden skoro, cra-xinotic. De cravi... the wind seemed to whisper from nowhere and Galese could feel it filling her as if she had no choice but to listen. the melody lulled her into a false sense of comfort and she took a gentle step away from her window and closed her eyes in contentment. She felt so safe now as if she were in Korent's arms...
Fin dain de cravi, vi esca de fin: Favi dain cihi. Nen reve, nen nux, nen gician la covae fer-ru selanu omiese. De cravi... Galese hummed in tune with the wind's whispers and barely heard the footsteps that stopped just outside her cell. She did hear the wrought iron bars creak as someone opened them, slowly as if not to alert anyone. Her eyes snapped open, expecting to see the sorcerer, Refina or Ricpen at the door. Instead... Galese's throat swelled as she saw her love standing there, waiting there to rescue her.
his voice was soft, barely there and a look of confusion on his face.
Galese nearly cried out in happiness and rushed across the room to be held in her beloved's arms.


Takaru was so unsure about everything that was happening, one minute Refina led him to this cell and the next the princess was practically sobbing a word at him. And now...
The door to the cell remained open, a way of escape for both of them should they choose to act. Instead Galese was clutching at his chest, weeping onto his shirt and repeated the word Korent over and over.
Korent, I thought... I thought I'd never see you again. I thought the sorcerers would-
Vi attede fin, vi attede feluna fiden, omiese-fa. De cravi... another voice seemed to whisper in his ears. Takaru was helpless as he listened, as he was forced to give into the spell.
Korent, I hoped, I prayed that you would come back to me. Oh Korent I'm so happy I can't even talk without crying, Galese continued, her salty tears spilling on his hands as Takaru brought them up to her face, not completely in control of his actions. It just felt right, like what the song told him. This was the right thing to do... the right thing...
Shh, it's all right Galese, he heard his own voice say and saw Galese's eyes light up as he spoke those words. I'm here Galese, my princess.
Galese sighed as his arms went around her, the words echoing between his ears so that not even Ricpen's protests could be heard. it just felt so right with Galese in his arms and the words all around him. It was just so right.
he barely said and tilted his head forward as Galese's hands went to the back of his neck. It just felt so right...
Vi attede fin. Qualen-ule de cravi, a sei lain. Ulebe cra-aleben, for en feunis fiden genki. Ulebe cra-qu... De fin...
Their lips touched for the briefest of moments, a kiss full of innocence but backed by so much passion Takaru was nearly overrun by it. The words he'd heard, the song the danced on the wind, it disappeared nearly as quickly as it took for he and Galese to separate. When that happened the results were not quite so pleasant. TAKARU! Ricpen was shouting at him while his mind was still a fog and Galese shut her eyes briefly then opened them shyly.
For a moment she was just utterly breath taking until her skin paled and her eyes went wide in horror. Korent! What did you do with Korent?! She screeched and tried to get out of his arms. Takaru looked down at her with confusion, he wasn't Korent but why did she... why did he? Let me go! she screamed and managed to get one hand free which she promptly used to slap him hard across the nose.
Blood began to spill down over Takaru's skin and he let go of her on reflex. She was so shaken that she couldn't stand on her own and fell to the ground making sounds that were a mixture of gagging and sobbing. Oh gods... oh gods, she whispered over and over as Takaru backed out of the cell.
What did you do?
I don't know! Takaru told Ricpen and was about to bolt for his room before Refina came back to see what happened when his exit was blocked by a familiar figure. Hello Takaru, or is it Ricpen now? the other apprentice said curtly and walked passed him to the cell door he'd conveniently left open.


Galese felt her stomach rumbling, both from her lack of nourishment and what just happened between herself and Ricpen. Gods that couldn't have just happened! She loved Korent, not some tool of the sorcerers! She didn't want to be a part of some plan to rule Gaea, she didn't want to give in to them.
Her stomach dipped within her again and Galese didn't fight the dry heaves. Perhaps it was just as well she didn't have anything on her stomach, it would be all over the floor by now. With Refina as her keeper it would stay there too.
Gods why did she feel like this? How could she have felt anything for anyone other than Korent? She wanted nothing more than to live out the rest of her days by his side. But just a few minutes ago she'd... It pained Galese to even think of it and she felt her stomach convulse again. The thought of even kissing that traitor made her sick to her stomach, so how had she done that? Korent... Korent... I'm so sorry... Oh gods Korent where are you?
A shadow rested on Galese and she refused to look at it, afraid it would be Ricpen or a sorcerer smiling smugly at her or Refina sneering haughtily from behind the bars. Or it could be another vision induced by whatever it was she'd heard sing. Think about something else, don't let your mind wander. If that happens then they'll use you again, just like before. Think, think, what were those words... Concentrate on that, Galese told herself and forced herself to concentrate on the song's words. Was it even a song? Did she imagine everything? No, she recognized the syllables; it was an ancient language though...
The shadow did not continue passed her cell as the miets rolled by. When it did not announce itself with a snide insult or mockingly sweet and false words Galese was surprised. No one but Refina and Ricpen came to her cell. Galese remained silent even as she heard the iron grating protest as someone stepped into the cell. Hello princess, was all the person said.
Galese's head shot up, her eyes wide and disbelieving. The person was wearing apprenticeship robes of the sorcerers and pulled back the hood to their cloak. Silvery blond hair fell over the hood and blank blue eyes watched her. Celena? What are you doing here? They'll capture you too!
Capture me? I'm almost sorry it had to be this way princess. Almost, Celena Albatou said with a hint of her brother's malicious tone as another shadow approached the cell.