Chapter 14: Back To Square One.
AN: Here it is, the last chapter, the second book/part/next chapter/whatever the hell you want to call it, will be up as soon as I can figure out what to put in it! (Any suggestions??? lol)
Dilly: *childish pout* I don't say much in this chapter...
Hitomi: hate to break it to you, but no one cares!
Van: Calm down 'Tomi and leave the poor guy alone *smiles sweetly* please?
Hitomi: *blushes* ok...
Unknown: *is making gagging noises behind their backs*
Dilly: *smirks*
Anyway... thanks for all the support and I'm so happy you liked this part of the story. Hopefully you'll all keep telling me what you think when the next book comes out! Oh and about Eternity's Angel of Mercy's comment: I can't believe I forgot all about the powers they have in the movie (even though I haven't actually seen it, since its not out over here yet *sniff*) but thanks for reminding me, I guess that means that I'm not talking a load of crap lol. On wiv the fic!
The slayer's party rode on through the withered streets of Fanelia in silence. Leading the troubled and, needless to say, uneasy group of travellers was their crimson-eyed commander and chocolate-orbed prince. The royal guards who had been ordered to escort them to the castle paid no heed to the calls of peasants and 'down on their luck' merchants as they cleared the way for the obviously very important party that followed on closely behind them. Mother nature had been in a light mood upon creating the dawn and no wind was present to push the light fluffy clouds on their way through the pale blue morning sky. The sun shone down on the damned capital but its rays seemed to fade upon impact with the buildings below. Cracked and worn, houses filled with plague and disease bore down on the new arrivals, unforgiving glares of hopelessness present on their dead faces.
Van shifted uneasily in his saddle. 'How could it have gotten this bad?' The simple question remained unanswered as the sight of his home came into view. Looming over its depressed city the once grand palace of Fanelia seemed somehow odd to the young prince. Pushing such thoughts aside Van tried hard to fill the void Hitomi had left with thoughts of the only family he had left, his elder brother Folken and younger sister Merle. Too his left however, the commander of the dragon slayers wore a look of cold indifference as it became apparent that he was going to miss the emerald eyed young woman much more than he would liked to have admitted.
''Your highness.'' One of the blood-red armoured guards addressed Van over his shoulder, upon Van's nod of recognition he continued. ''His majesty requested that you and your party be taken straight to the main hall upon your arrival.''
''Very well.'' Mentally Van sighed, 'guess that bath will have to wait.' He thought resentfully.
When the group reached the bottom of a large flight of ascending stone steps they dismounted and continued on foot. The climb was long but the well-trained fighters had not problem accomplishing the task.
As it did with the streets below, the sun bored down brightly on the castle. As the men carried on through the courtyard towards the main gates they couldn't help but bask slightly in the beautiful surroundings that they were suddenly subjected to. It had been over a year since they had returned to their home and although it was still a place of pain and suffering, it was still home. Marching down the stone path that lead to the great wooden doors that marked the entrance to the castle, the slayers were in line as they usually were, two by two following behind Van and Dilandau. Towards the back of the group Gatti and Dalet conversed quietly about their entrance to the capital.
''Did you see how the guys at the gate looked at Van?'' Gatti spoke in a low tone that didn't get father than Chesta and Gimuel who where standing in front of them.
''Yeah,'' Dalet replied, looking over the heads in front of them and towards the mess of raven locks up ahead. ''I think we missed something.''
''I know what you mean.'' Chesta whispered back in their direction, though his light blue eyes were still focused in front of him. ''But we were told before we left the capital that information would be given on a need to know basis.'' The blond haired young man concluded, hoping his explanation would stop further hushed conversation. Unfortunately for the youngest slayer, Gatti and Dalet found something else to whisper about.
''I can't believe she just left us.'' Gatti murmured, sparks of resentment slipping off his tongue unintentionally. ''I mean, she doesn't really have anywhere else to go, and she's one heck of a fighter, it was like she was meant to be one of us. Right?''
No one answered as the group of warriors came to a sudden halt. Watching as the large doors open upon demand, all such wavering thoughts became second place as they mentally prepared for their mission debriefing.
~~~~~
Moving slowly through the plagued streets Hitomi couldn't understand how heavy the whole atmosphere inside the city walls was. Walking down the stone covered back streets the emerald eyed young mage found herself caught in an uncomfortable paradox. She was trying so hard not to breath because she knew that every particle of air drawn in could mean her catching what ever it was that had caused the population so much disease, at the same time however, all her mental panic accomplished was the need for her to breath deeper in order not to hyperventilate. It was not a pleasant feeling.
Banishing such uneasy feelings, the young woman thought about how she had said goodbye. The look on Dilandau's face was unreadable and the mental image of it made Hitomi's heart pang in a sudden feeling of hurt. It was as if he didn't care, not a snigger when she thanked him for the pleasant if not interesting journey and certainly no backwards glance as he took the reins of 'her' mare and lead the slayers on towards their final destination, the capitals palace. Sighing she shook of the loss, it didn't matter really, she had more important things to do. At least she hoped she did. Instead she let her mind recreate the comfortable feeling that had shot through her when Van had given her a quick hug. A small smile graced her lips at how embarrassed he had looked upon letting her go, sweet. He had acted like a brother to her almost from the first they'd met, silently wishing him well Hitomi almost giggled when her mind recalled how the slayers had each embraced her, all at the same time. It took a hand to her mouth to stop from chuckling openly, they must have all looked ridiculous. Another sigh. She would say that she was going to miss them, but an internal voice said that they wouldn't be apart for long.
''Please miss, spare a coin?'' The sudden introduction of dialogue re-diverted Hitomi's train of thought. She moved her gaze right towards the origin of the plea and a lump grew in her throat. The man before was no more than thirty years old; he stood in front of a large pile of broken stones and charred wood.
''You burned down your home?'' the mage asked, waves of pity seeping into her soft tones.
''What else could I do?'' The stranger replied, brown eyes glancing back at the rubble. ''They're all gone.''
''What do you mean?'' Hitomi asked, letting her curiosity become the better of her. Even though it was plain to see from the mans expression how saddened he was.
''How could I live on their? In the place where they died?'' He motioned to the smoking stones and even the gesture itself seemed depressing, ''Even if it was cleansed, how could I sleep in the bed where my wife withered away. Everywhere I turned I saw shadows of my children before...'' He trailed off and lowered his glazed over eyes and Hitomi asked no more. Moving on she stopped briefly to place some coins in his hand before walking on down the streets of the damned city. She couldn't just roam about this time, these people needed help and somehow she knew she was brought here to do it. The fates had guided her here and now it was time to find out what her task was, and how she was to accomplish it.
~~~~~
''Lord Van!''
The childishly toned call echoed through the halls and into the main hall and a young cat girl bounded into the room on all fours. Ignoring the surprised glances of servants and the amused expressions of the slayers, well most of them, she came to a screeching halt in front of Fanelia's youngest prince only to jump right into his arms an instant later. ''I was so worried about you!'' Merle continued as Van stroked her hair lovingly.
''There was no need.'' Van assured the young cat girl, ''I'm a big boy you know.'' Van's eyes lit up a little when Merle started to giggle, their light conversation was cut short however, when Folken entered the room.
Folken Lecour de Fanel was a well built young man, his well-defined body hidden by a large black cloak. At twenty-five years old the future king of Fanelia stood tall, almost towering over the slayers at a good 5'11. His long face and blue locks spoke of learned wisdom that seemed to have skipped a certain younger brother of his.
''Brother.'' He came to a stop in front of Van and bowed slightly, before almost pushing Merle aside and embracing the young teen before him. The exchange of affection last barely a second before Folken stepped back again and an impassive expression toned his features. ''It is good to see you safe.'' His tone, along with his deep brown eyes, betrayed his look of indifference.
But meters away from the reunion all the slayers shared a look of confusion, gazing to their commander for an explanation they found no answers as their leaders eyes remained closed. He had sat down at the large polished pine table, folded his arms, closed his eyes and not moved since. Their confusion had to be placed aside, however, upon Folken regarding them and finally allowing the party to sit down and begin the talks of the countries well fair. Folken just rolled his eyes in an amused manner when Dilandau looked like he wasn't about to move from his place at the head of the table, ignoring point blank the whispers of complaint the entering advisors were shooting at him. Folken shot the advisers a look of his own and they became silent, taking their various places around the huge table. Inwardly Folken sighed, it was going to be a long meeting, but the prospect of catching up with his younger brother afterwards brightened up his thoughts a little.
~~~~~
Emerald eyes narrowed as the thin-framed mage entered. The hut was dimly lit, it's owner however, didn't seem to mind the darkness. Hitomi hadn't meant to step over the small threshold and into the room but something had drawn her here, a feeling that Hitomi had learned from experience not to ignore. Incoherent whispers flooded into the slayers ears and the young woman shifted her eyes to locate the sources, she couldn't find them however and was just about to turn and leave out of confusion when the hut owner's voice stopped her. ''Seek answers you do little one.'' A high-pitched, cackle like tone irrupted from the old witch as she stepped towards the mage. Hitomi looked the old woman over and sighed, she had encountered many like her, all mad and all extremely annoying.
''I'll have you know child that I am not mad, though I have been told that I tend to rub people up the wrong way.'' The witch laughed lightly when Hitomi eyes flickered her surprised emotions. Coming forward again the witch stepped into the dim light fully and Hitomi suddenly realised that the older woman was blind. A sigh of relieve almost escaped her lips. The old crows milky orbs meant a sign of true abilities, she could indeed see the unseen, either that or she was an extremely good actress. That didn't account for the mind reading of course, but it was a start.
''What do you want?'' The mages tone was firm but to the observant listener betrayed her wariness. Hitomi knew that this conversation could last a lifetime.
The crow laughed again, ''nothing from you my dear.'' She replied, standing on tiptoes to examine Hitomi through her minds eye. ''I tell you things you wish to know however, if you would like my dear.'' Hitomi ignored the poor grammar and nodded, knowing that the witch would continue whatever her reply.
''You wish to help, you think that is why you have been brought here correct?'' Hitomi nodded again before the crow continued. ''My dear your journey has not yet ended. Go back to where you belong and let the wind guide you. Let what you seek come to you and deal with it then, in the mean time I think other matters concerning that,'' the witch chose this opportunity to poke Hitomi's chest, snapping her hand away again before Hitomi could grab at it, ''should be dealt with.'' Laughing throatily again the witch stepped back and nodded once, before disappearing in a cloud of smoke.
Exiting the small building coughing Hitomi growled, 'show off.' Walking back down the narrow street towards the centre of the city Hitomi summed up the situation. Stopping suddenly she couldn't believe she was going to follow the advice of and mind reading old witch and laughed at herself mentally. Shrugging her shoulders openly the green-orbed warrior turned on her heels and walked back towards where she belonged, or rather who she belonged with.
Here ends book one of 'Infestation.'
AN: Here it is, the last chapter, the second book/part/next chapter/whatever the hell you want to call it, will be up as soon as I can figure out what to put in it! (Any suggestions??? lol)
Dilly: *childish pout* I don't say much in this chapter...
Hitomi: hate to break it to you, but no one cares!
Van: Calm down 'Tomi and leave the poor guy alone *smiles sweetly* please?
Hitomi: *blushes* ok...
Unknown: *is making gagging noises behind their backs*
Dilly: *smirks*
Anyway... thanks for all the support and I'm so happy you liked this part of the story. Hopefully you'll all keep telling me what you think when the next book comes out! Oh and about Eternity's Angel of Mercy's comment: I can't believe I forgot all about the powers they have in the movie (even though I haven't actually seen it, since its not out over here yet *sniff*) but thanks for reminding me, I guess that means that I'm not talking a load of crap lol. On wiv the fic!
The slayer's party rode on through the withered streets of Fanelia in silence. Leading the troubled and, needless to say, uneasy group of travellers was their crimson-eyed commander and chocolate-orbed prince. The royal guards who had been ordered to escort them to the castle paid no heed to the calls of peasants and 'down on their luck' merchants as they cleared the way for the obviously very important party that followed on closely behind them. Mother nature had been in a light mood upon creating the dawn and no wind was present to push the light fluffy clouds on their way through the pale blue morning sky. The sun shone down on the damned capital but its rays seemed to fade upon impact with the buildings below. Cracked and worn, houses filled with plague and disease bore down on the new arrivals, unforgiving glares of hopelessness present on their dead faces.
Van shifted uneasily in his saddle. 'How could it have gotten this bad?' The simple question remained unanswered as the sight of his home came into view. Looming over its depressed city the once grand palace of Fanelia seemed somehow odd to the young prince. Pushing such thoughts aside Van tried hard to fill the void Hitomi had left with thoughts of the only family he had left, his elder brother Folken and younger sister Merle. Too his left however, the commander of the dragon slayers wore a look of cold indifference as it became apparent that he was going to miss the emerald eyed young woman much more than he would liked to have admitted.
''Your highness.'' One of the blood-red armoured guards addressed Van over his shoulder, upon Van's nod of recognition he continued. ''His majesty requested that you and your party be taken straight to the main hall upon your arrival.''
''Very well.'' Mentally Van sighed, 'guess that bath will have to wait.' He thought resentfully.
When the group reached the bottom of a large flight of ascending stone steps they dismounted and continued on foot. The climb was long but the well-trained fighters had not problem accomplishing the task.
As it did with the streets below, the sun bored down brightly on the castle. As the men carried on through the courtyard towards the main gates they couldn't help but bask slightly in the beautiful surroundings that they were suddenly subjected to. It had been over a year since they had returned to their home and although it was still a place of pain and suffering, it was still home. Marching down the stone path that lead to the great wooden doors that marked the entrance to the castle, the slayers were in line as they usually were, two by two following behind Van and Dilandau. Towards the back of the group Gatti and Dalet conversed quietly about their entrance to the capital.
''Did you see how the guys at the gate looked at Van?'' Gatti spoke in a low tone that didn't get father than Chesta and Gimuel who where standing in front of them.
''Yeah,'' Dalet replied, looking over the heads in front of them and towards the mess of raven locks up ahead. ''I think we missed something.''
''I know what you mean.'' Chesta whispered back in their direction, though his light blue eyes were still focused in front of him. ''But we were told before we left the capital that information would be given on a need to know basis.'' The blond haired young man concluded, hoping his explanation would stop further hushed conversation. Unfortunately for the youngest slayer, Gatti and Dalet found something else to whisper about.
''I can't believe she just left us.'' Gatti murmured, sparks of resentment slipping off his tongue unintentionally. ''I mean, she doesn't really have anywhere else to go, and she's one heck of a fighter, it was like she was meant to be one of us. Right?''
No one answered as the group of warriors came to a sudden halt. Watching as the large doors open upon demand, all such wavering thoughts became second place as they mentally prepared for their mission debriefing.
~~~~~
Moving slowly through the plagued streets Hitomi couldn't understand how heavy the whole atmosphere inside the city walls was. Walking down the stone covered back streets the emerald eyed young mage found herself caught in an uncomfortable paradox. She was trying so hard not to breath because she knew that every particle of air drawn in could mean her catching what ever it was that had caused the population so much disease, at the same time however, all her mental panic accomplished was the need for her to breath deeper in order not to hyperventilate. It was not a pleasant feeling.
Banishing such uneasy feelings, the young woman thought about how she had said goodbye. The look on Dilandau's face was unreadable and the mental image of it made Hitomi's heart pang in a sudden feeling of hurt. It was as if he didn't care, not a snigger when she thanked him for the pleasant if not interesting journey and certainly no backwards glance as he took the reins of 'her' mare and lead the slayers on towards their final destination, the capitals palace. Sighing she shook of the loss, it didn't matter really, she had more important things to do. At least she hoped she did. Instead she let her mind recreate the comfortable feeling that had shot through her when Van had given her a quick hug. A small smile graced her lips at how embarrassed he had looked upon letting her go, sweet. He had acted like a brother to her almost from the first they'd met, silently wishing him well Hitomi almost giggled when her mind recalled how the slayers had each embraced her, all at the same time. It took a hand to her mouth to stop from chuckling openly, they must have all looked ridiculous. Another sigh. She would say that she was going to miss them, but an internal voice said that they wouldn't be apart for long.
''Please miss, spare a coin?'' The sudden introduction of dialogue re-diverted Hitomi's train of thought. She moved her gaze right towards the origin of the plea and a lump grew in her throat. The man before was no more than thirty years old; he stood in front of a large pile of broken stones and charred wood.
''You burned down your home?'' the mage asked, waves of pity seeping into her soft tones.
''What else could I do?'' The stranger replied, brown eyes glancing back at the rubble. ''They're all gone.''
''What do you mean?'' Hitomi asked, letting her curiosity become the better of her. Even though it was plain to see from the mans expression how saddened he was.
''How could I live on their? In the place where they died?'' He motioned to the smoking stones and even the gesture itself seemed depressing, ''Even if it was cleansed, how could I sleep in the bed where my wife withered away. Everywhere I turned I saw shadows of my children before...'' He trailed off and lowered his glazed over eyes and Hitomi asked no more. Moving on she stopped briefly to place some coins in his hand before walking on down the streets of the damned city. She couldn't just roam about this time, these people needed help and somehow she knew she was brought here to do it. The fates had guided her here and now it was time to find out what her task was, and how she was to accomplish it.
~~~~~
''Lord Van!''
The childishly toned call echoed through the halls and into the main hall and a young cat girl bounded into the room on all fours. Ignoring the surprised glances of servants and the amused expressions of the slayers, well most of them, she came to a screeching halt in front of Fanelia's youngest prince only to jump right into his arms an instant later. ''I was so worried about you!'' Merle continued as Van stroked her hair lovingly.
''There was no need.'' Van assured the young cat girl, ''I'm a big boy you know.'' Van's eyes lit up a little when Merle started to giggle, their light conversation was cut short however, when Folken entered the room.
Folken Lecour de Fanel was a well built young man, his well-defined body hidden by a large black cloak. At twenty-five years old the future king of Fanelia stood tall, almost towering over the slayers at a good 5'11. His long face and blue locks spoke of learned wisdom that seemed to have skipped a certain younger brother of his.
''Brother.'' He came to a stop in front of Van and bowed slightly, before almost pushing Merle aside and embracing the young teen before him. The exchange of affection last barely a second before Folken stepped back again and an impassive expression toned his features. ''It is good to see you safe.'' His tone, along with his deep brown eyes, betrayed his look of indifference.
But meters away from the reunion all the slayers shared a look of confusion, gazing to their commander for an explanation they found no answers as their leaders eyes remained closed. He had sat down at the large polished pine table, folded his arms, closed his eyes and not moved since. Their confusion had to be placed aside, however, upon Folken regarding them and finally allowing the party to sit down and begin the talks of the countries well fair. Folken just rolled his eyes in an amused manner when Dilandau looked like he wasn't about to move from his place at the head of the table, ignoring point blank the whispers of complaint the entering advisors were shooting at him. Folken shot the advisers a look of his own and they became silent, taking their various places around the huge table. Inwardly Folken sighed, it was going to be a long meeting, but the prospect of catching up with his younger brother afterwards brightened up his thoughts a little.
~~~~~
Emerald eyes narrowed as the thin-framed mage entered. The hut was dimly lit, it's owner however, didn't seem to mind the darkness. Hitomi hadn't meant to step over the small threshold and into the room but something had drawn her here, a feeling that Hitomi had learned from experience not to ignore. Incoherent whispers flooded into the slayers ears and the young woman shifted her eyes to locate the sources, she couldn't find them however and was just about to turn and leave out of confusion when the hut owner's voice stopped her. ''Seek answers you do little one.'' A high-pitched, cackle like tone irrupted from the old witch as she stepped towards the mage. Hitomi looked the old woman over and sighed, she had encountered many like her, all mad and all extremely annoying.
''I'll have you know child that I am not mad, though I have been told that I tend to rub people up the wrong way.'' The witch laughed lightly when Hitomi eyes flickered her surprised emotions. Coming forward again the witch stepped into the dim light fully and Hitomi suddenly realised that the older woman was blind. A sigh of relieve almost escaped her lips. The old crows milky orbs meant a sign of true abilities, she could indeed see the unseen, either that or she was an extremely good actress. That didn't account for the mind reading of course, but it was a start.
''What do you want?'' The mages tone was firm but to the observant listener betrayed her wariness. Hitomi knew that this conversation could last a lifetime.
The crow laughed again, ''nothing from you my dear.'' She replied, standing on tiptoes to examine Hitomi through her minds eye. ''I tell you things you wish to know however, if you would like my dear.'' Hitomi ignored the poor grammar and nodded, knowing that the witch would continue whatever her reply.
''You wish to help, you think that is why you have been brought here correct?'' Hitomi nodded again before the crow continued. ''My dear your journey has not yet ended. Go back to where you belong and let the wind guide you. Let what you seek come to you and deal with it then, in the mean time I think other matters concerning that,'' the witch chose this opportunity to poke Hitomi's chest, snapping her hand away again before Hitomi could grab at it, ''should be dealt with.'' Laughing throatily again the witch stepped back and nodded once, before disappearing in a cloud of smoke.
Exiting the small building coughing Hitomi growled, 'show off.' Walking back down the narrow street towards the centre of the city Hitomi summed up the situation. Stopping suddenly she couldn't believe she was going to follow the advice of and mind reading old witch and laughed at herself mentally. Shrugging her shoulders openly the green-orbed warrior turned on her heels and walked back towards where she belonged, or rather who she belonged with.
Here ends book one of 'Infestation.'