The Hunt: Part 22
-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:
Why is this part out so late? Computer crashes, horrible auto saving (hehehe now it saves every 5 seconds!) and horrible working schedules are to blame. Now, why is it out so soon? You can thank freaky and (hopefully completely) coincidental happenings, that and a half a dozen dunkin donuts!
Brownie points to anyone who can figure out why I titled this part the way I did and catch the literary references. There's... um... three total. Anyway, let the countdown to the end of The Hunt begin! Only two or so parts left and then the epilogue... *sniffles* My baby's almost all grown up!
Van sat upon his throne, the ornamentation of dragon bones not helping his mood at all. Hitomi... she was gone for good. How long would he go on these pointless excursions just to see if the goddess of wings decided to grace Gaea with her presence?
Why didn't she come back? I thought she wanted to stay... Van was so entrenched within his own thoughts that he didn't hear someone sneaking up on him until it was too late.
Van-sama, what's wrong? a feminine voice asked. Van blinked, and barely looked at Merle before looking down at one of his hands.
Nothing Merle, I'm just thinking. The wide blue eyes narrowed slightly, her delicate pink eyebrows rose in disbelief.
No, you're not thinking, you're sulking. And kings should not sulk Van-sama, she admonished him, or tried to. It's very hard for a young cat woman to try and rebuke someone her senior (and king) without looking silly. Besides, you'll make the advisors talk again, she said that last sentence in an almost sing song tone.
And we don't want the advisors talking now do we? Van answered her in a tone that was probably too sulky for Merle's liking.
Van-sama, this isn't good for you. It's not good for Adon, for Fanelia! If you're so set on seeing Hitomi again why don't you bring her here? Can't Escaflowne bring her here? Merle's voice sounded so innocent and naïve that Van had to look at her face.
Escaflowne... Escaflowne brought you here once, would it bring you a second time goddess? Merle, Folken's mystic... she took Escaflowne, Van said softly, his mind still trying to accept defeat as he said that. Merle's blue eyes looked downward at that, her ears drooping into her carnation colored hair.
Then... She will always be with you in your dreams and wishes. Right Van-sama? Van nodded absently, wishing that for once his dreams could come true...
Galese was trying hard not to smirk, Zorya could tell that just by the ways her eyes were crinkling in the corners and how her grey eyes weren't on Zorya. So, I see my country hasn't fallen into ruins while in your hands.
I wouldn't do something like that to you, Zorya replied evenly. Galese looked down at the table in front of her. The table that Zorya had been looking at maps on just two days before.
But it seems that you and the General-
Why would I and the General be doing anything? I mean he's the ruthless dragonslayer General and I'm not even from Gaea and- Galese looked up then, a sly look on her face.
I was going to say you and the General were trying to decide upon a strategy for our soldier but I guess you did more, she ended that sentence with a small teasing smile. Zorya blanched, that's all she could do. After all if you weren't then you wouldn't have told me all that now would you?
Will you please just stop with this talk about the General? Nothing is going on, really! Besides I need a break, all this changing and moving and showing up gave me a headache, Zorya mumbled, her green eyes not looking up at Galese now.
That's not all that's bothering you, I can tell, Galese said softly instead of allowing Zorya to leave.
And I know you're still upset about your uncle, but why aren't you-
Grieving? A ruler must know the appropriate times to grieve, go to war, protect their country and then celebrate in times of prosperity. There is no time to grieve my uncle, may the Dragon let his soul rest, not when the country he died to protect is under attack. I wish I could grieve him now Zorya, I wish I could be like you and just break down right now and have no one think me weak as a queen. But they won't. And as much as I don't want to admit it the dragonslayers will not always be here under my contract. I need to be strong without them, for the sake of my people, Galese spoke softly, as if those were her innermost thoughts that she trusted to no one but herself. Zorya was silent, afraid to destroy the fragile words and tone Galese set into the room. But you, you don't need to be strong for thousands of people. It's not good for someone not of Gaea to brood.
It's everything and nothing. Celena is gone, I told you that already, and Dilandau- Galese raised an eyebrow at Zorya's casual use of his name. He nearly went insane, more insane than normal. I mean he- Zorya stopped herself, not really sure if she should tell Galese what she saw. He has wings Galese, white wings like an angel. How can a murderous monster like him be an angel? No, he's not a monster, just a man... She didn't say anything, if she did it would be like giving away a family heirloom, something that was to be entrusted to only herself and those few dragonslayers that knew. He was ready to leap off the ramparts to try and save her.
The bloodthirsty General actually cared about his sister, what a shock, Galese said with a mock indifference as if she was hiding something.
Well, I mean he's so adamant about everything else around him why shouldn't he care about his sister?
You've seen the way he treats his dragonslayers, Galese replied and locked her eyes on Zorya.
That's because he doesn't want them to go soft, he wants them to be the best, Zorya retorted, just as heated as Galese. That sly smile returned to Galese's face and one pale hand went to push her black bangs away from her eyes.
Are you defending him Zorya? Zorya opened her mouth to deny it, to deny everything that Galese said and instead she shut it without ever uttering one word. She wasn't purposely defending him, was she? No, I mean I owe him that much after everything he- She could feel his hand on her hip again, the fingers barely crawling over her dress, his forearm against her abdomen. A faint blush rose to Zorya's cheeks; she wanted him to kiss her then. She wanted-
she mumbled and snapped out of her daydream.
Don't tell me the General is a bunny lover who sleeps with a teddy bear at night, Galese deadpanned, the sly look gone from her face.
No! I mean, Celena was gone Galese, who else was I supposed to ask for help? Zorya tried to keep her voice even but wasn't sure if it worked. Galese let one black line rise and then looked down at the maps. Besides, if I asked Korent for help then it would've set the advisors off. Why would I ask a lowly dragonslayer instead of his Gen-
Galese's head shot up, her grey eyes whirling with anger. Korent is not lowly!
Zorya herself was taken aback by that. Why would she say that when Korent had helped her and- Ugh, Dilandau's actually rubbing off on me. While I'm sure we could argue about this all day long why don't we drop it? Zorya suggested and hesitantly Galese nodded.
Silence filled the air between them and Zorya was at a loss for what she should say. Galese began and didn't look at Zorya. What else is getting to you, besides the General?
Korent could, for the the moment, ignore the throbbing that continued to assail his temple. The strike from Latro had been more than what Korent thought Latro could do. What if it had been Galese I was protecting instead of Zorya? Would I have tried harder to protect her?
No. He gave everything he had into protecting the princess from Latro, as if she'd been Galese herself. Korent smiled to himself absently, he was still thinking of her as a princess. A princess that waited so long for her knight in shining armor; only to discover they could never be together. It didn't matter to Korent though, he'd stay here for as long as he possibly could. Dilandau-sama would never let me stay here. Could I fake my own death?
The throbbing increased as Korent tilted his head forward just slightly. Gods the pain he felt... he could feel it tearing him apart despite everything he did to try and not think about it. The aching... it hurt him so much. Korent didn't feel the pain from his temple but one hand went over his armor and rested on his chest. Gods, he'd never be free of that aching, that longing to spend every waking moment of his life with Galese. He'd never have the chance to see her grow old, to see her would be suitors, to see her reign as queen...
Korent didn't feel the salty water fall down his cheeks until one errant drop hit his ungloved hand. He didn't dare stop the tears either and instead closed his eyes as his vision was blurred by the saline. Why couldn't he just live here for the rest of his days with Galese? What will be so important that I have to leave Celet with the other dragonslayers when they do? Why can't I just...
His ice blue eyes scrunched tighter as the aching nearly tore him apart.
Life doesn't play fair.
I thought you said she wouldn't come back, Garufo grumbled within the bowels of the palace's dungeons. Foruma held the bridge of his nose, counted to three and then counted to three again to control his anger.
It's one flaw in the plan, that is why we have contingency plans, Paruchi stated although it sounded as if he were having a hard time staying calm as well.
One flaw? Zongi didn't do his job, the queen is back and only the gods know where Kuaru is! You call that one flaw? Garufo barked and Foruma would've laughed if he weren't so annoyed. It was a very good thing each sorcerer was in a separate cell, otherwise Paruchi might've been wringing Garufo's neck.
That is why Kuaru gave the Alseides that Albatou girl and Zongi is still out there and might I remind you Takaru is as well, Paruchi said through gritted teeth. Garufo blinked in wonderment, as if he'd forgotten their plans in his panic and the queen's reappearance.
Oh, I'd forgotten he came with the queen, Garufo said in a much more subdued voice.
Yes, Zongi you do remember what he looks like don't you? Within one of the walls two yellow colored eyes opened, a grey nose protruded outwards as lips formed.
He's changed sorcerers, Zongi rasped, not bothering to form his whole body.
It doesn't matter, the two will never join permanently. This will give you a second chance Zongi, do not repeat your mistakes or you shall not be the one we punish, Paruchi said coldly. Zongi's stone textured face didn't flinch, only his eyes closed in acknowledgment.
As you command.
I suppose Takaru will be the distraction? Foruma spoke up finally, drawing Paruchi's attention.
Of course, we need something to throw off the goddess and General until Kuaru arrives, Paruchi stated matter of factly.
Dilandau looked at the two children again, his garnet eyes weary and begging for sleep. Sleep, at such a time, would be a sign of weakness. You know what to do, was all he said. Both Shesta and Guimel nodded, the latter's pale curls bouncing enough to distract Dilandau from sleep's tempting embrace.
The silver haired boy gritted his teeth and thought about the overseer again, about how angry the weak man made him. His blood began to boil but, that wasn't enough. His eyes were shut tight and tiny miniscule tears of pain and anger collected at the corners of his eyes. Where was his father now? Where was Celena? Where were they while he was here?! Dil... Dilandau?
He could've sworn he heard Celena's voice and that ripped him apart. If he hadn't released his power when he did the anger would've made him explode inside the small metal cell; most likely killing Shesta and Guimel as well. The power nearly threw Shesta and Guimel against the metal walls as it rammed into the door. Metal squealed and screeched in protest but Dilandau fed it with his hate and anger and continued to feed it until it let out a high pitched death screech and the door flew off the cell.
Dilandau gripped at the metal wall, beads of perspiration dripping down his skin. The entrance to the cell was clear now, the door frame pushed outward as well from his use of his powers. It made Dilandau grin, to know he could do such things all by himself. He was strong!
Go get them, now! Dilandau wheezed as he struggled to catch his breath. Guimel and Shesta nodded, a bit dazed from being tossed around a bit and ran as fast as they could when they left the cell. Dilandau's grin widened as he could hear the overseers begin to shout.
Shakily, Dilandau stood up; one hand on a metal wall at all times. He could feel the power flooding through his veins, could feel his hatred feeding it. Well if that's what he needed to think about, so be it. It was time, time to show the overseers what Hell was really like.
Galese's eyebrows were tensed above her worried eyes. Everything was happening so quickly and all at once. Zorya has to be mistaken. The sorcerers wouldn't call her here, she's not a goddess... But who else would've done it and then try to assassinate her?
Very soon Galese was sure she'd find herself in the General's position, alone. She wasn't looking forward to the end of the war, unlike her advisors and Celet's people. The end of the war meant the dragonslayers would leave, it meant he would leave. And then there was Zorya... If what Zorya said was right then why would she be there at the end of the war? Galese had made a horrible mistake, she assumed Zorya would be around at the end of the war. Perhaps she made that assumption to ease the passing of both her uncle and Celena. Nothing would be here for her to latch onto if Zorya was taken back to the mystic moon.
Unless I do something to the sorcerers or, manage to keep Zorya away from them. Galese paused in her footsteps, the warm mid afternoon light catching the bottom of her dress. That mere pause however would make her several minutes late for her meeting with her newly appointed advisors. Majesty, the advisors- one of her escorts began.
Can wait, I'd like to think for a moment. Please, leave me, Galese intoned, her mind not interested in conversing or arguing with the guards. Neither guard questioned her, she was the queen of Celet after all. But for how long before these advisors usurp my power?
All of them thought they knew what was best for herself and the kingdom. Part of the advisors' we know best attitude was finding a nice king who could lead Celet instead of Galese. They wanted her to become a figurehead, just like her great-grandmother years ago. I do not need some air head for them to control. Zorya didn't dethrone those sorcerers just so more power hungry advisors could take advantage of the Celet crown.
Galese's chin tilted down slightly, her eyes not really looking at the bottom of her dress or the floor. Becoming queen meant many things to Galese now than just a few months ago. Being the queen meant changing certain things to ensure she remained queen, and that her children (son or daughter) would not be robbed of their power by advisors. Mother and Father never did say being royalty was easy. I took that part for granted...
Soft footsteps approached Galese but she didn't look up, not yet. She assumed it was one of the guards, reluctant to actually leave her alone. Her thoughts wandered to that of taking someone as her king. She could most likely live out her days with any man, maybe even grow to love them if she absolutely had to. I don't want to but for change to be successful I don't have anyway of keeping a dragonslayer here.
the voice was male and soft, as if it were all just a dream. Galese's muscles were slow to act and when she brought her eyes up from the floor she saw him standing there. Not a doppelganger, not an illusion or dream, but the real him. His ice blue eyes looked as if he'd been crying or was about to cry; worry lines not quite smoothed out on his brow and around his lips.
Galese began but forced herself to stop. She couldn't go on with this, she couldn't torture herself or Korent further. The dragonslayer took a step forward, his hand extended to her. No, Korent please.
His hand fell back to his side, that forlorned look on his face again. Galese, you know that I-
I know Korent, and this is difficult for me to tell you, Galese said softly, her throat tightening even as she continued. Gods she didn't want to tell him what they'd need to do. She didn't want him out of her life yet!
Tell me what? We haven't even gotten a chance to speak yet and you already have-
Galese stared him in the eye, trying to hold her head high as she did so. Korent, I am queen of Celet now. That means certain things, like I need to have a king at my side eventually. A king my advisors will approve of, she spoke softly, as if hoping he wouldn't hear her words after all and they could go on as if-
Korent's face went lax, not wanting to believe what he'd just heard. I know that, I know you need a proper king but, Galese, you are my princess. My queen, my everything. Why force us apart when we can enjoy what time we have left? he implored, his hands reaching out to her again, his voice getting shakier with each word.
It'll be more painful when you-
It's painful now Galese! I can't stand to be in the same room with you and have to act like the indifferent dragonslayer Lord Dilandau wants me to be. I want to stand by your side, as your king, as your-
But you can't, Galese forced herself to say but could feel her defenses coming down. She was so close to Korent now, so close and yet she couldn't even.... Tears formed in her eyes and Galese tried to blink them away. It wouldn't look right if she went to the meeting with red and puffy eyes.
But... The time we got to know each other. The walks in the garden, our midnight excursions. Didn't they mean anything to you? Korent was almost begging and Galese could feel her heart rent in two at the sight of him like this. She knew she should say no, that she should tell him she was focused on becoming queen and that he was just an insignificant soldier.
Yes Korent, it meant the world to me. Without you I'm... I'm incomplete, Galese spoke from her heart as a few tears escaped her eyes. Korent's arms were around her, uncaring if they were found in such a compromising situation. And for a fleeting moment, with his warmth around her, Galese forgot about everything that was wrong with being with her true love.
Zorya stared out the window, overlooking the frozen backwoods of the palace. It was funny, on one side of the palace Waesir was an ancient looking forest but on the completely opposite side it was the bustling capitol of Celet. It was as if the palace were confused about what it should be, the past or the future.
Where does my future lie? Home or- Zorya got the distinct impression she was not alone and threw a glance over her shoulder expecting to see Galese or one of the advisors instead her eyes came upon someone she wasn't sure if she knew.
the soft almost doubled voice said. Zorya turned around completely to face him, half of a man who'd tried to kill her at one point.
Takaru... or what is it they call you now? Zorya asked, her words held a distinct chill to them, not unlike the wintery airs just on the other side of the pane of glass. A look of hurt momentarily crossed Ricpen's face but only for a moment.
Ricpen, they call me Ricpen Zorya. I want to apologize for what Takaru did to you. It was the sorcerers-
Well, I'm not the goddess of wings and that didn't seem to make Takaru slow his dagger any, Zorya replied, an icy sting infecting her words. She didn't want to talk with Takaru of all people, she didn't want to be reminded of how he betrayed her.
Ricpen's aqua eyes never left hers and that made Zorya nervous. He had Takaru's look in his eyes right now, as if he were sizing her up. Abruptly Zorya began to walk around him, giving him a wide birth of course, in case like Takaru he carried a concealed dagger on him. What would you like me to tell you then?
Takaru worked for the sorcerers if they're who called me so can they send me home?
Do you want me to lie to you or tell the truth? Ricpen said slowly, allowing his words to sink in. Zorya stopped her slow walk around him, as it was she was only a few feet away from the door to the library. She could easily just leave him to talk ot himself.
Can I be sent home? Zorya asked just as slowly as Ricpen spoke to her.
No, you're not a goddess. And I don't know if the sorcerers can send you home, Ricpen lied. Zorya didn't pick up on the lie however and turned on her heel to exit the library as quickly as possible. She had no more answers than she started with and now had an incarnation of Takaru in the castle as well. Things can't possibly get any worse, she thought to herself just as she shut the library's tall double doors.
Things can always get worse, although apparently Zorya didn't want to think about that possibility. And one of them was always walking into the General. To be reminded of what had nearly happened before Galese and Ricpen interrupted. Zorya absently touched her lower lip, her mind awash with contradictory thoughts as she walked off for her training session with Cerel.
Dilandau was running faster now, he had to run faster than all the others; especially the overseers. A burst of anger sent three overseers flying into the air and then onto the hard rocks that scrapped the slaves' feet raw every day. A maniacal grin on his ten year old lips Dilandau lashed out again, this time knocking an overseer into the gathering crowd of slaves.
a high pitched voice called over the rabble of the overseers and slaves. Dilandau paused in his run and turned his head in the general direction of the voice. Guimel was running towards him, bobbing and weaving between the overseers and older slaves' brawls. The grin didn't leave Dilandau's face, now this is Hell on Gaea. Behind the curly haired boy were two others. The two newcomers were covered in a splattering of blood as if they'd been as busy as Dilandau to get to him. Guimel shouted again, this time only a few feet from him.
The ten year old turned around just as an overseer raised a sword in the chaos he had unleashed. The arms exploded with a vitality that Dilandau could only revel in as the blood soaked his skin and the man's sword fell to his feet. He could feel his power gnawing at his mind, trying to overcome him but, if he allowed it to do that then he would be weak. What is it? Dilandau barked as he picked up the overseer's sword, his hands unaccustomed to the sword's handle.
True he'd held shovels and pick axes that were comparable to the sword's weight but none moved so effortlessly through the air. None called out to him like this did. It was amazing, as if he were created solely for the purpose of wielding that weapon. I found them, Dallet and Miguel! Guimel huffed excitedly as he came to a halt just outside of Dilandau's reach.
You can use a sword? Dilandau questioned the chestnut haired and threw another blast at a group of slaves and overseer alike. Miguel nodded to which Dilandau answered him by throwing a sword at the grey eyed boy's head. Surprisingly Miguel caught the sword and only faltered slightly with its weight. A smirk pulled at Dilandau's lips but he was too preoccupied in enjoying the chaos he created.
a new voice rang out, a prelude to the growth of their group. Dilandau's eyes scanned the area around him quickly nd saw Shesta running towards them. He was being followed by two boys; one had ash blonde hair while the other had curly black hair that fell into his eyes.
For the moment the overseers were more concerned with controlling the rioting slaves than watching seven little boys plot their escape. You know horses, Dilandau stated at the two new comers ready to cull them from the group if what Shesta and Guimel told him was false.
the dark haired one said and Dilandau's grin widened.
Let's move! Dilandau cried out and unleashed his power again, that agonizing weariness trying to take over him as he did so. Miguel held the sword outwards, ready to attack any overseer that might stop them. The three or so overseers that did stand in their way were launched into the air from Dilandau's latest attack. All Miguel had to do is make sure no one attacked from behind as Dilandau and Ryuon raced for the unkempt stables. Slave and overseer alike were cut down as the small band of rebels raced through the massive riot.
The house was silent except for the quick shallow breaths of the older woman sitting at the kitchen table. In reality she couldn't have been more than forty but, worry lines creased her face and an unnatural amount of grey hair ran through her once auburn colored hair.
The unnatural silence continued in the house even with the two children that resided there as well. It was almost as if they were afraid any noise would break what fragile hope hung over the house. The woman absently rubbed at one of her worried deep grey eyes and let out a soft dejected sigh.
Strewn all across the table were newspaper clippings, photocopies of important papers and letters. Littered amongst all those papers were the haunting eyes that refused to leave the older woman. A face from the most recent school photo, her eyes open and her face happy. Underneath all the pictures it stated, Zorya Pele, missing since September 29, 2000. Why? Haven't I suffered enough? her mind cried out as she rested her head in her palms and propped her arms up on the table.
I never should've let you go. I never should've agreed to let you go...
Why can't I go?! Everyone else is going and my exchange partner will need me! she could almost hear Zorya shout.
If everyone's going then I'm sure someone else from your Japanese class can help her, Alma whispered as if she were still talking with Zorya, as if she could change what happened...
Why are you doing this? Can't I for once enjoy myself on a trip or do something that everyone else is? I'm not some little kid!
It doesn't matter, look at what happened to Tr-
You're comparing me to a ten year old that doesn't know about responsibility? I'm going to be eighteen for goodness sake!
Do not call Trent irresponsible, Alma began to weep, a feeling of despair washing over her. First Trent was taken from her and now Zorya. It's not fair. A hand on her shoulder started Alma and she turned her head to look into the tired green eyes of her husband.
Alma, we shouldn't give up hope, he said softly. Alma could remember him before any of this happened, before Trent and before Zorya. His eyes had been the most beautiful vivid green color anyone could imagine and his hair had been the darkest black imaginable.
I know, its just... everything just seems so pointless. Four months and not even a sign of the kidnappers Ian, not one, Alma sighed and placed one of her hands over his on her shoulder. The police had said the kidnappers must've been waiting to grab one of the stragglers in the group, and with all the kids milling about and getting on the bus they'd have easy pickings. Their daughter had simply been in the wrong place at the wrong time. On top of that, to add insult to injury that exchange student had been babbling about fire, some place called Gaea and a van. Alma never got over the feeling that the girl had been lying, that she'd had some hand in the plot to steal her daughter, why else would she make up such an outrageous story of her daughter getting sucked into a tornado of fire?
We should never give up hope, never. Come on, you look tired, he said gently and helped her out of the chair.
I just want my children back, Alma began to cry uncontrollably and could only console herself on her husband's shoulder.
Some say green is a cursed color, Ricpen whispered to himself, half expecting and hoping someone would answer him. If he was answered however he didn't know who it would be. It is the color of rotting decay, of disease of a lingering curse. He jumped back from the window at those words. It definitely hadn't been either Ricpen or Takaru that said that.
It's true, some say green is a cursed color, a voice rasped from the darkness. Before Ricpen could turn around he watched as on window glass in front of him a reflection emerged from the darkness. A white face marked with navy blue and more importantly yellow cat-like eyes. But, then you would know that already Takaru.
Ricpen wanted to turn around, to fight against the doppelganger that lunged at him in an attack. But he couldn't... he couldn't do anything as fear gripped his mind. He didn't want to die, didn't want to walk the walk of the dead again or be trapped inside as a pawn for Zongi to use at any second. His knees gave way as cold beads of sweat ran down his face and neck. Gods, he couldn't move...
The falling sensation was stopped by two deathly cold hands on either side of his face, barely keeping him from collapsing in fright. No! No! NOT AGAIN! his mind screamed but even then he wasn't sure who had spoken it. The yellow cat's eyes were fixed on his aqua ones, which in his fear were changing from Ricpen's bright blue to Takaru's green. This should not have happened prince, I'm sorry. I'll be sure to rectify that now however, Zongi rasped and opened his mouth.
Ricpen tried to move, to get away from Zongi but couldn't. He could only sit there, without screaming, as a blinding pain screamed through his body. It felt as if he were being torn in half but not into equal halves. It was pulling at him, at his mind, at his body. Gods the pain it hurt so much.
Ricpen! he could make out Takaru's voice for a split second before the pain ended and darkness enveloped him.
Ricpen's body fell to the floor but it was not the dried out husk that Takaru's body had been. Instead it fell to the ground, its arms barely able to hold the sunken skinned body from hitting the ground. W-w-what have you done? it tried to speak, its vocal chords half dried and raspy.
Zongi looked down at the thing, his piercing blue eyes staring downwards at it. I didn't need you Takaru, only Ricpen. I trust you'll go and assist the sorcerers, he spoke slowly and eloquently as if he really were a prince.
Ricpen? Ricpen?! Ricpen! Takaru tried to get his bearings but couldn't. It was as if Zongi had taken a part of him away. His head was spinning as the room refused to right itself. Something wasn't right with him, he was missing... What have you done? Takaru tried to speak again and once more it came as a dry rasp and his vocal chords strained to even get that out.
Ricpen shook his head at the still disoriented Takaru but his tone remained the same. The sorcerers are in the lower dungeons. They are expecting you Takaru.
Zorya turned around, the cold steel drawn in the time it took for her to turn. Only twenty feet away stood her opponent, his face looked as if it were made of stone. His eyes were cold, emotionless and ready to begin. Zorya held the sword out, adjusting as she remembered Cerel's words when she first began to train. While being on a fencing team at school gave Zorya a bit of a head start when she trained with these swords it was almost a completely different style that these soldiers used when fighting. Their goal was not style, not to show skill and most certainly not to minimize injuries. They used brute force with only enough skill to disarm and ultimately kill their enemy. That was not a style Zorya originally wanted to learn or even adapt her own style but, in order to stay useful as a bodyguard to the queen she had to be able to defend Galese.
The opponent took a step forward and brought his sword back, preparing to bring it at her with extra momentum when he would strike. Zorya took a step back, shifting her balance and trying to augment the strength of the attack. As expected he led with his blade, drawing it around and trying to use his blade and weight to throw her off balance. She sidestepped quickly, shifting her weight to the right and brought her own sword up just in time to come into contact with his own.
He pushed down with his greater strength and Zorya's arms trembled as she forced her own sword to push against his. There! An opening presented itself and Zorya lashed out with a kick to send her opponent backwards a few feet. It was enough for Zorya to plan her own attack and then follow through with it. She charged him and brought her sword around to attack his lower body. She saw him bring his sword around and executed her feint Not fast enough! Zorya cursed herself as the snap of her wrist gave away her new attack.
The attacker easily blocked her attack and pushed against her easily overpowering her faster attack. Zorya's eyes narrowed at him and watched, waiting for an opening as she blocked his offensive strike. Wait for it, wait for it... He pulled back just a little too much and Zorya struck. She feinted, this time successfully, and managed to get her sword just to the left and...
His sword was flung out of his hands and Zorya took the extra step forward and brought her sword up only to rest it against his throat. She took a few deep breaths before she smiled and brought her sword down. I'm not that rusty, now am I Cerel?
Not as rusty as we thought, the older man said with a smile. You still need training but you'll make a fine soldier some day. Surprisingly Zorya was not shocked as he said soldier instead of bodyguard or, at the thought of being a soldier. With everyday that went by Zorya found herself more in love with Gaea than the day before, if staying meant becoming a soldier Zorya would try to be one to the best of her ability.
You call that a spar? I've seen dogs fight better than that, a voice mocked them and it didn't take long for Zorya to identify the General. He was standing out in plain sight, his arms crossed over his chest. It was strange that Zorya hadn't noticed him there earlier. Zorya kept one hand on the hilt of her sword as Cerel collected his own. She hadn't talked with the General or seen him in private since the night Galese returned.
Cerel bowed his head respectfully to the General before casting Zorya a passing glance. I've more soldiers to train before the the next attack-
Which will leave in less than three moons. If you expect any of your men to survive I suggest you leave now, Dilandau growled out the order. At least it sounded like an order and completely concerned with business and Zorya staying in the room was an unexpected element. As the doors closed behind Cerel however and Zorya looked into Dilandau's eyes she could almost tell that each word was carefully planned to achieve this effect. No one would question why the General and herself were alone- Don't think like that! He's not here to continue that meeting, he's probably only going to chew you out for being sloppy with the sword.
Within Zorya's chambers beneath a desk in a pouch long forgotten a small sphere flushed a deep purple. A few seconds later another beat followed until a steady, if slow, pulse brightened its container.
If you're to protect the Queen your skills must be better than everyone else, Dilandau stated smoothly his eyes never leaving hers. You need to be strong-
Who's to say I'm not strong enough to be her body guard? Zorya nearly snapped. She almost bit down on her tongue to prevent her from provoking Dilandau further. There was no way she'd be able to stand against him in a real spar match...
The sphere's pulse increased in intensity until little beams of purple light could be seen pouring out from every tiny slit in the bag's material and flooding that small portion of the room with its glow.
Dilandau smirked at her, his eyebrows coming down just a bit as his eyes narrowed at her. So, you think you're strong enough? What if I was an assassin, would you be able to stand against me?
The sphere flushed again, the purple light changing to a more reddish hue...
If I had to. I don't have the dragonslayers to hide behind of course, Zorya.
I do not hide, Dilandau nearly snarled at her. I am not weak!
And neither am I! Zorya stated and her grip on the sword tightened.
Have you seen everyone around you die? Have you felt the hardships of the barren lands and the hierarchy of the wild dogs? Been defeated by a god? What have you done to make yourself strong Zorya? he asked seriously, his feral tone for the moment gone.
I became a Queen. I have braved the slaying of a dragon, a merman and an assassination. I have been the perfect substitute in a foreign land without one person who at one point or another wished for my death. I survived your threats, she finished and Dilandau's eyebrows went up, the smallest of smirks pulled at Dilandau's lips.
We'll let's see how strong you are, Dilandau nearly chuckled and drew his sword, the slow hiss of steel a foreboding sound as Zorya drew her own sword.
The beating increased in tempo until the sphere lost its purple flush and was a dark blood red color.
Zorya brought her sword up to block, trying her best to keep up with the General's strength. for one thing his attacks were nearly too fast for her to defend properly and she found herself being backed against one of the training room's walls with each blow they exchanged. Zorya shook herself mentally as Dilandau's sword collided with her own, sending a flurry of sparks all around them. You can't fight, he said low in his throat as he pressed his sword down and forced Zorya back.
It took Zorya only a split second to decide on her next attack and she brought her sword around, waiting for Dilandau to block... His sword stopped her own, his smirk back as he realized she was going on the offensive. Now! Zorya lashed out with one of her feet to kick Dilandau backwards while he was busy with the sword.
While she managed to catch him off guard the distraction didn't last as long as Zorya hoped. He retaliated with a quick feint to her lower left, and Zorya was convinced he used his power to act so quickly. Zorya's sword was nearly knocked from her hands from his latest blow and she staggered backwards in an attempt to regain her balance. This is such a boring hunt, Dilandau murmured, his garnet eyes seemed to boor into her as her grip on the sword tightened.
Hunt? This is all just some game to you? Is this what you do to all your enemies, hunt them until they're too confused to even know which way is up?
Is the prey resisting? It makes the hunt all the more exciting, he said low in his throat and spun around, his sword catching her off guard. It was only by pure alone that his sword was not an inch higher. As it was her sword was pushed backwards and the edge of Dilandau's blade stopped only an inch away from Zorya's face.
Zorya shouted and pushed with all her strength against the blades. Dilandau must've expected her to stop after making him take a step back but, she continued to press her sword forward until he began to push back. There won't be any war or hunt or whatever you want to call it. I will not be made weaker than you.
And how do I know you're not weak? Dilandau asked softly above the sound of his sword connecting with hers once more.
I do not need to prove my merits to you of all people, Zorya huffed and this time dared to take one hand off her sword to try and punch or push at him. It proved to be a mistake as Dilandau easily batted her stray hand away and with a shove of his own managed to wedge her between himself and the wall. Dammit, I didn't realize we were so close to the wall, Zorya thought in annoyance as Dilandau managed to hold his sword against her throat. So close...
Because you have no merits, he taunted her, trying to make her feel weaker than she was Zorya suspected. His free hand held her sword hand and for a moment as plan formed in Zorya head.
No merits, after surviving here for so long, Zorya rambled. Just keep him busy...
Even at Death's door you resist, Dilandau chuckled as he was oblivious to her left hand going for her last resort. He grinned at her, completely convinced he had won. Zorya felt the hilt of the dagger, held just to the side of her scabbard and pulled it out.
she barely whispered. Dilandau's face remained the same for a moment before his eyes traveled downward. Her left hand held her dagger, the one given to her all those weeks before to protect the princess. The tip was directed at Dilandau's most vital organ. Gently she taped him with it to get her point across.
he muttered, taking no more than half a step back. As he did so the sword at her neck lowered. His sword hand caught her dagger hand as he dropped his own sword however and twisted it upwards painfully. Her wrist gripped in iron, Zorya could do nothing more than release her last resort. Dilandau's fiendish grin returned, his eyes alight with fire.
Zorya struggled in his grip, her eyes on the dagger Dilandau cast aside. Dammit, she thought and turned her attention back o the General. She still held her sword but it was in such a tight grip that it was uncomfortable for her to even hold onto it. This hunt is over, Dilandau rasped.
So close, they were so close again... The hunt is over... Zorya barely managed to think as they remained like that, Dilandau twisting her sword hand painfully and her dagger less hand pinned against the wall. he whispered again and before she knew what was happening Zorya's world froze. Suddenly she could only hear the steadily increasing beat of her heart and feel the slightest pressure of touch on her skin. She felt her grip on her sword loosen, due to both shock and an unwillingness to lose the sensation that had stolen her concentration.
Her sword fell to the ground with a strangely thunderous clatter but it made no difference as both Dilandau and Zorya's ears were deaf to it.
As Dilandau's lips continued to be in contact with her own Zorya could've sworn she felt electricity surge up her spine, making her skin tingle. It was as if his kiss was a match setting a grand fire ablaze and now staying in contact with that match was all that she wished for. Dilandau's hands released her hands only so his arms could pull her closer, crushing her against him. Zorya gave in willingly, allowed his lips to press against hers in an almost possessive manner. She let her freed hands bury themselves in the silver hair that spilled onto his neck, prolonging the kiss for as long as possible.
Zorya was barely aware of her body's need for oxygen and Dilandau was the one to release her. If she'd been able to think extremely clearly and unbiased perhaps she would've found that ironic. After all it was not her first kiss while it could very well have been Dilandau's first. Although, as Zorya opened her eyes, she wouldn't be able to recall her first kiss if her life depended on it.
It wasn't so much as it overpowered her first or was that much better. But... there was something so drastically different about this one. A passion that threatened to explode simmered just beneath its surface, fed by an almost desperate search for acceptance and the essential drive that drove two chosen people together. Zorya began to say even as Dilandau didn't release her from his arms.
he barely whispered, then his lips were on hers again; this time more confident and daring in his search for his perfect answer. Zorya practically melted into him, and whatever questions she may've had were gone long before they were forced apart by their bodies' selfish need for oxygen.
The drawing room to the Queen's chamber was dark aside from the light from the double moons. And one day you'll return there Zorya, Galese thought to herself before focusing her attention on the General that she'd called upon. His eyes were not on her however and disrespectfully were watching the mystic moon. Galese called, more to get his attention than to actually speak. She had to word it all very carefully to ensure she got what she wanted.
His garnet eyes fell on her after a few seconds, his lips screwed into a scowl of annoyance. You're a fool for trying to call me in for a meeting Queen I have better things to do.
Galese asked, completely ready to see the General blush or do something like Zorya did yesterday. Instead his face was still as stone except perhaps, for a twitch at the corner of his mouth that deepened his scowl.
You're wasting my time by talking about your so-called bodyguard, Dilandau nearly snarled but Galese stood her ground. She could be silent just as he'd been silent...
I don't think so. I've come to the conclusion, after speaking with Zorya, that she is from the Mystic Moon; just as the goddess of wings was. Once the war was over the goddess of wings returned to the Mystic Moon, presumably because the Black Dragon Clan's power source was dead and could no longer keep her here. Now, Zorya was brought here by mistake. She was brought here by the sorcerers to be the goddess of wings. Galese paused, waiting to see if Dilandau made the same connection she did only a few hours before.
Dilandau stared at her his face unchanging and then his eyebrows lowered just a bit. The sorcerers can send her back, Dilandau spoke slowly as if he was waiting for Galese to interrupt him. Galese nodded and watched him. Still the General showed no emotion other than annoyance, aside from his steadily deepening scowl. He turned on his heel, one hand on the hilt of his sword and Galese's eyes widened. She couldn't let him...
You can't kill them, Galese nearly shouted.
Dilandau made some guttural noise in dissent and Galese clenched her fists; he was going to ruin everything! If you kill them you'll send her back by default.
The General stopped in his tracks and slowly looked over his shoulder at her. She will not leave Gaea, he said darkly, his facial features not moving aside from his lips that were pulled back in a feral snarl.
I can banish the sorcerers, move them into a another country's prison. Freid has an excellent guard unit in their deepest dungeons, Galese said slowly, allowing Dilandau to catch onto what she was saying. The snarl lessened but his eyes were still dark; distrust, anger and hatred danced in their garnet depths. Dilandau turned around completely then, allowing her to see one hand on the hilt of his sword and ready to strike.
It doesn't matter how close they are to her they can still send her back, Dilandau almost growled.
But she can't ask them to send her home if they're not here. And how will they even know to send her home if they're split up and unable to perform the spell together? Galese asked. Dilandau was silent though she thought she saw his grip on the sword tighten. For this service all I ask is one thing in return...
