Love can Change You 12
A/N: I love you guys! You've all been so kind to me as I write my story. *Spotlights* You like me! You really, really like me! *Tears* Anyway, Hitomi and Dilly go on their first date! And who to our wondering eyes should appear? But Merle! Now, to clear something up. Refina does not appear in every chapter to try to kill Hitomi while screaming like a maniac. That's Dilly's style, and more power to him! But Refina is more like a snake. She waits, bides her time, tries to gain an advantage, and THEN she tries to kill Hitomi! Wait until you see what I've got in store! He, he, he! On with the tale!
Merle padded down the corridors of the Vione, checking the room numbers as she went along. "Hmmm, lets see. Which door was it?" She stopped in front of a door with the Dragonslayer's symbol on it. The cat girl checked the slip of paper she had in her hand. "Ah ha! Here we are!" She then tucked the paper into her pocket and knocked on the door.
A muffled voice answered, "Who is it?"
"It's Merle!"
"Merle? Come on in! I'll be out in a minute!" Merle opened the door and plopped herself down in a chair. Glancing around the room told her that she had come to the right place. There was her backpack. Probably full of weird stuff too. She remembered the last time she had gone through Hitomi's stuff, and wondered if she could get away with it again.
While Merle wondered, Hitomi strolled out of the washroom. She was dressed and ready for the ball, but she was still towelling her hair.
With a squeal of glee, Merle launched herself upon the excited soldier. With a startled oath, Hitomi fell to the floor, Merle on top and jabbering like crazy.
"Hitomi! How have you been? Where have been this last week? Folken said you were hurt and I was worried! Are you all right?"
"I've been fine, I was out training with the guys, yes I was hurt, and", she sighed dreamily", I'm better then alright!" Merle frowned.
"Are you sure you're alright? You sound kind of high." Hitomi blushed. "I am not high! I'm just happy. And how have you been? Weren't you Dilandau's prisoner?"
Merle nodded. "I was. But Folken rescued me! He introduced me to Naria and Eriya, and gave me my own room and everything! But I wanted to get back to Lord Van. So Folken is using this ball as an excuse to get me back to Asturia."
Hitomi smiled. "So you've been having fun?"
"Yep". Merle sighed. "I tell you, the Vione is a great place to visit, but I wouldn't want to live here. How do you do it?"
"Well, a healthy dose of paranoia gets you past day one." She waited for Merle to stop staring. "I know it seems freaky, but once you get to know the people, the machine doesn't matter." Hitomi hesitated. "Are you sure you want to go back to Van? You know something's happened to him."
Merle shivered. "That's why I have to go back. I have to try and help him." Hitomi shook her head in amazement. "You've grown up so much."
Merle seemed about to say something, but bit her tongue. "What is it? Whatever it is, you can ask me."
She hesitated, but finally blurted it out. "Can I see your scar?" Hitomi looked at her for a moment. Then she pulled down her collar. Merle leaned closer. "It's proof that Van's not right." Hitomi nodded, and then pushed it back up.
After the serious talk was done, they fell to reminiscing. They talked about girlish things mostly. How Gatti had a crush on Naria, and how Naria maybe liked him back. But soon enough, things drifted to the war.
"How do you do it? How do you fight for Zaibach?"
Hitomi poured herself and Merle some drinks. "Well, I guess it comes down to a matter of view. When I was with you guys, sure I thought all of Zaibach was evil and how they had to be stopped." She took a sip of her drink and sighed. Merle sniffed at hers suspiciously while Hitomi continued. "But once you get to know the people, you see that they're just fighting to protect their families and country. Most of the people here don't like to fight." She sighed as Merle took a careful sip of her drink. Her eyes bugged out.
"Wow!"
"I know. I have no idea what's in it, but it's my favourite drink here." Hitomi sipped hers again. When Merle recovered, she asked, "So what's your opinion of Asturia, now that you're with Zaibach?" Hitomi snorted.
"The king is an idiot, most the knights are bastards who wouldn't save their own grandmothers if they were being robbed, crime is everywhere, and the guards drag away whoever the crime doesn't get!"
"What about Milerna?" Merle sipped her drink again and went cross- eyed.
"She wasn't so bad. Better then most of the people in Palas."
"What about Allen?" Merle nearly dropped her drink as Hitomi growled.
"Allen was the one who did this to me!" Hitomi pointed at her neck. Merle was stuttering.
"B-but I thought t-that Van-"
"Van didn't even want to come! Allen was the one who pushed for it. Allen was the one who treated me like an object he can use. And ALLEN is the one who attacked my friends and the man I love!" Hitomi threw her glass into the wall. The shattering heralded silence. She just stared at the wall. Merle just looked at her, fright in her eyes.
Then Hitomi sighed. "I'm so sorry Merle. I've been stewing over it since I was hurt. And I've been getting a little.emotional recently. I didn't mean to scare you." She hung her head.
Slowly Merle calmed down. She tossed back the rest of her drink and went cross-eyed again. She needed it. "Don't worry about it. If I were you, I'd have blown up long ago." Hitomi looked up.
"Do you mean that?" Merle nodded and Hitomi hugged her friend. "Thanks."
When the moment had passed, Merle grinned. "So, who's the guy?"
Hitomi blushed wildly. "W-what??"
"You know, the 'man I love'?" Hitomi mumbled something.
Fortunately, she was saved from answering by a knock at the door. In relief, Hitomi opened it, and looked into the smiling face of Guimel. She and Merle just stared. He had really gone all out! His hair was combed, and the scent of Old Spice drifted through the room. "What? Is there something in my teeth?"
Merle babbled something. Guimel grinned even more. "Thank you!" He strode into the room and kissed her hand. Now it was the cat girl's turn to blush.
Guimel turned to Hitomi. "The leva-barge will be leaving soon. You two had better hurry up." With a bow, he turned and offered Merle his arm. "Lord Folken has given me the honour of escorting you to this event fair lady. Shall we go?"
Merle just babbled some more, and took his arm. She looked stunned as Guimel led her and a snickering Hitomi from the room.
***
Godashim was one of the last peaceful cities remaining. It wasn't flashy like Asturia, or technologically advanced like Zaibach. It was elegant, in a simple sort of way. Everyone seemed to be in the same medium of wealth. There was no one particularly rich, and no one particularly poor. People were polite to each other as they passed by and the city guard paid for what they took. There was a sense of polite dignity to the air.
At least that's how it seemed to Hitomi. She noticed that the populace were even polite to the Dragonslayers. A passing farmer saw their crisp military uniforms, and he nodded a polite greeting to them. Guards passed them by without trying to pick fights. Peddlers tried to sell their wares to them. Hitomi shook her head. 'I guess I shouldn't be surprised at that one'.
When they reached the castle, they halted. The ancient building was made of solid stone and would be very difficult to penetrate. The palace gates were wide open, and a herald awaited them.
He bowed. "Ah, good guests! Allow me the honour of escorting you to the banquet hall." He moved quickly before anyone could talk, and they all followed.
Folken sidled up to the man, and Hitomi was close enough to hear the conversation.
"Have any of the other guests arrived as of yet?"
"Why yes good sir! Representatives from Cesario, Daedalus, and Asturia have arrived."
"Could you tell me who the Asturian representatives are?"
"I believe that the knight Allen Schezar is in attendance with Princess Milerna. Various other nobles are here as well. There's so many that I'm afraid I can't remember them all."
"Is the King of Fanalia here too?"
"Ah yes. It's such a shame, you know. A beautiful country like that burned to the ground. I simply can't believe it. My sister was in Fanalia two days before it was destroyed. It's appalling that something like this happens in this day and age."
Hitomi lost the rest of the conversation. So Van was here? And Allen. She clenched her fist just thinking that name! She supposed that she'd have to try to keep good manners, so she wouldn't filet him like sushi. But he'd better watch himself!
As the Slayers and Folken, with Merle bringing up the rear, marched into the ballroom, a herald announced their arrival. "I present, Lord Folken Strategos, Lord Dilandau Albatou, and the Dragonslayers!"
Half-hearted applause mixed with muted grumbling. A large crowd was here already. Apparently, every country had brought as many representatives as Zaibach.
The slayers mingled with the crowd, each one going a separate way. Merle scampered off, looking for Van, and Folken spoke to Duke Freid.
"Ah, my friend. It is good to see you again." Folken opened up. Neither really liked each other, but they respected each other too much to lie.
"Aye, it's good to see you too Folken." Freid was grudging. "I see you've brought the devil boy with you."
"If you mean Dilandau, then you're right. He refused to be let out of the equation."
"One of those kinds, eh? Always screaming for attention". Freid shook his head and Folken nodded. "I've never seen the use for them myself. Why do you keep him around?"
Folken took some punch from a passing servant, and sipped at it before he replied. "The men love him, he's an excellent fighter, he's a good strategist when he's sane, and he's got a reputation like no other." Freid nodded at that. "Aye, he's one of a kind. A strategist eh? He'll be replacing YOU next!"
Folken snorted. "Please! He's not THAT good. And he's got the political skills of a dragon."
"So I found out when he brought me your proposal." Freid looked about the room for the general. He saw him near the fireplace, dancing with a partner. He pointed. "Who's he dancing with? A fellow slayer, by the looks of her".
Folken got a glance and choked on his punch. Dilandau and Hitomi? Dancing??? Recovering, he shrugged. "She's just a new recruit we picked up a week or so ago."
"The boy's taken quite a shine to her, I think. I was talking to one of your boys earlier. You know the one with the bowl cut? He said that she fought and killed a dragon, and took its energist. I think it's on her sword pommel."
Folken stared intently at the duo. Yes, Hitomi had indeed grafted the energist to her sword. It was currently glowing, and made an impressive pommel. He nodded reluctantly. "Yes. She fought a dragon. It was during a training exercise."
Freid chuckled. "Speaking of exercise, Scezar's seen her. Fifty dinare says he goes after her."
Folken eyed Allen eyeing Hitomi, with trepidation. If Schezar tried something, this could get very ugly.
*** A/N: Dinare is the standard currency for Freid. ***
Dilandau sat by himself, in a comfortable chair. In the dim light, his eyes reflected the firelight, and seemed to glow hellishly. A smile curved his lips as he watched the sparks wheel and dance in an intricate pattern of light and heat.
A shadow loomed over him. He looked up and smiled at Hitomi. "Hi girl" He said. Hitomi pulled him up by the hand. "What are you doing?"
She smiled. "We're on a date, remember? We've got to have fun with each other. Besides, you're the handsomest guy here, and I want women to be jealous!"
Dilandau laughed. "Then fun we shall have!" He took Hitomi in his arms as a slow dance started.
The music was slow and beautiful. It sounded like the rain on a window. Hitomi sighed and rested her head on Dilandau's shoulder.
They were alone. By themselves. All of the guests were there around them, talking, laughing, and getting drunk. But the only two who mattered to Hitomi were she and Dilandau. They swayed with the music, never leaving each other's embrace.
As Dilandau twirled her around, a voice interrupted, "Mind if I cut in". There was a slight jostle, and Hitomi blinked, the spell breaking. She was in the arms of.Allen Schezar?
The grinning playboy looked confident. If he thought that his unwilling target wouldn't cause a political incident by breaking away, he had another thing coming!
Hitomi's arms came up, coolly deflecting his hands. "I'm sorry Allen. You're just not my type."
Allen took her in his arms again. "Really? You seemed to be getting along with Dilandau, so I thought you liked men in uniform." Hitomi ground her heel into his foot, but he refused to let go. "Only the ones who don't act like a pig", She snarled. She planted a hand on his chest, then pushed. It worked as well as it had on Dalet, and Allen stumbled back, losing his grip. When he tried to move in again, Dilandau and Chesta stood in front of him. "Excuse me gentlemen, but you are in my way."
Dilandau shrugged easily. "We know. It seems to me that she doesn't want your attention."
Chesta stepped forward. "So back off". Allen wasn't fazed.
"I'm only looking for a dance Dilandau. Are you jealous? Weren't you getting what you wanted from her?" Allen shrugged. "It doesn't matter to me, I can get that sort of thing from any other woman in this room."
Dilandau flushed an ugly red. "How dare you talk about her like that? She's not some forty cent whore you can find on a street!"
Allen glanced nonchalantly at Chesta, and returned his gaze to Dilandau. "I seem to have struck a chord. Is she really that good? I wouldn't know." Dilandau's eyes widened, but before he could move, Hitomi stepped in front of him. She faced Allen, her eyes as hard as the jewels they were compared to.
"I'd get out of here Allen, before you're building villages in Freid as well as Asturia. Oops. I forgot. You already have!"
Allen's eyes widened, and Dilandau and Chesta laughed.
A/N: That means he's got more bastard children then he can count. Let's say that it's a Gaean insult.
Allen growled something unintelligible. When he was through, his voice was calm, if cold. "I see that I should take my dance offers elsewhere. Just remember," Now he grinned, "That feisty women intrigue me." Before anyone could move, he moved his head down and captured Hitomi's lips for an instant, then pulled back.
***
The slap echoed throughout the room, killing the music and talk. All eyes turned to the scene, where a furious, green-eyed girl, was facing a blond knight Caeli, with a large red handprint on his cheek. The knight bowed and walked away, and the festivities continued. Duke Freid burst into laughter.
Folken merely smiled. That had gone better than he'd hoped.
Hitomi, meanwhile, was seething over Allen. Chesta was a little worried. Her eyes had that killing-spree look again. "Are you okay Hitomi?" She looked at him and smiled, her eyes going back to normal.
"I'm alright. He just sickens me, that's all." Dilandai sighed in relief. Then he caught Folken giving him the 'come here' hand signals, and he grimaced. Turning to Hitomi, he said, "I've got to go for a moment. I'll be right back though."
Hitomi smiled forgivingly. "Of course. I'll just find some old friends." She kissed Dilandau quickly, then headed off to the refreshments table.
She poured herself a glass of vino and headed out into the crowd.
She had to fend off three noblemen looking for dance partners, but she found who she was looking for. Hitomi headed towards her, and initiated a conversation. "Lots of people here, aren't there?" Blinking at this obvious statement, Millerna looked to see who was talking.
"Hitomi!" Millerna shook her friend's hand. "It's been a while. What happened to you? Van and Allen just said that you went traitor".
Hitomi sighed and shook her head. "I just changed my opinion about this whole war. Asturia was making me miserable, so I left."
"And how's Zaibach been treating you?"
"Well enough. I've got new friends, a guymelef, a sword." Millerna whistled at that.
"Sounds like you've been keeping busy." Millerna said. Hitomi nodded, and she continued. "What's it like being a soldier?"
Hitomi smiled, and downed her downed before answering. "It's a hell of a lot more exciting then being a tagalong, I'll tell you that. The other day, when we were training in the forest, I slew a dragon." Millerna gasped, and Hitomi nodded. "It was a big bastard too. Soldier life does have its drawbacks, though."
"How so?"
"Well, people try to kill you, for one. You get screamed at by your superiors, for another." Hitomi sighed, and sipped at her drink. She remembered that she'd drunk it all, and she sighed. "Hold that thought." She refilled her glass from a passing servant and resumed the conversation. "How are things going for you?"
Millerna started. "Well, father's finally let me set up a hospital a train some nurses. Yesterday, I removed an arrow from someone's shoulder!"
"Really?" Hitomi shook her head. "I don't see how you do it!"
"Well. It all comes down to how you want to run your life. I want to help people, but I'm not built to be a fighter." Millerna sighed as she waved a dainty arm. "So, I decided to help people who were hurt instead. Allen's been trying to get me to become one of those dainty ladies who couldn't swat a dead fly on a cold windowsill! He said that women should be ladies, not tomboys." She laughed and clapped Hitomi on the shoulder. "We're living proof that he should put that theory on the shelf!"
Hitomi smiled. "So what else is new?"
"Allen's trying to catch some Zaibach soldier. He keeps saying that she's the key to beating Zaibach." Millerna trailed off and stared at Hitomi, who was inspecting her glass. All of a sudden, Millerna grinned. "I see. That would explain why he wants you back so much. I thought that he just wanted to sleep with you."
"Probably that too." Hitomi mumbled. Millerna was shocked. "What?"
Hitomi related her encounter with Allen, and Millerna's shock changed to revulsion. "God! I'm glad I dumped him!" Hitomi nodded and sipped her drink again. Millerna continued. "Actually, that reminds me. I keep seeing Van with some other woman in Palas." Hitomi sprayed vino all over Millerna, who looked revolted. "Thanks a lot!"
"Another woman?! Who?" Millerna smiled. "Jealous, are we?" Hitomi scowled. "NO! I'm over Van. I've got someone else! I'm just surprised that he's with somebody while this war goes on! Now, who is she?"
Millerna thought. "Well, she's got long, blonde hair that's back in a ponytail. She has blue eyes and a creepy smile. Van's been acting really weird since she came. I think her name's."
"Refina" Hitomi whispered.
Millerna nodded. "That's her name. I think she's here with Van."
Hitomi went cold. Refina was here? "Oh crap."
Millerna kind of stared. "What's the big deal? You admitted that you didn't like Van," Now Millerna smiled shrewdly, "And you said that you had found someone else."
Hitomi mentally kicked herself. The way she was going, EVERYONE would find out about her and Dilandau. "Listen to me Millerna. This woman is Emperor Dornkirk's personal assassin, and an AWOL Dragonslayer!"
Millerna paled. "Are you serious?"
"Dead serious. What's more, she's done something to Van, some sort of injection. That's why he's being so creepy recently!" Hitomi shuddered. "Please. We have to help Van. I may not love him anymore, but he's still my friend. Tell Merle, she'll be coming back to Palas with you."
"I think we may have a bigger problem." Hitomi winced.
"What is it?"
"I think Refina and Allen are in on something together. When she's not with Van, those two are never around. That's one of the reasons why I broke up with Allen, I caught them on the roof together. And they were doing more than looking at the view."
Hitomi downed her second glass of vino, and called for a third. She downed that too, and felt a bit better. "Life gets better and better. Can you imagine that I came here on a date?"
"With who? Your new lover?"
Hitomi slapped herself across the face. "Damn it!" She sighed. "I can't get away from this one, can I?" Millerna smiled and shook her head. Hitomi sighed. "Alright, alright. I'll tell you. But it's a secret." Millerna nodded seriously. Hitomi leaned forward. "It's Dilandau."
Millerna stared at her for ten seconds. Then SHE grabbed a glass of vino off of a servant, and chugged it down. When her head cleared, she shook it. "I didn't see that coming."
Hitomi smiled. "Neither did I. But when you find love, you don't look a gift horse in the mouth."
Millerna looked confused and Hitomi sighed. "You don't try to figure out how it happened, because you might wreck it that way."
Millerna smiled and pointed. "Speaking wrecking things, here comes your boyfriend!"
Dilandau sauntered over to the two girls. He barely gave Millerna a look before he kissed Hitomi. When he pulled back, he asked, "Are you ready for another dance?"
Hitomi nodded breathlessly, and walked away, Dilandau's arm around her shoulder. Millerna watched as the two left, smiling ruefully. "I hope those two are happy together."
***
"So what did Folken want to talk to you about?"
Dilandau dipped his girlfriend in time to the music. "He wanted to know how long we'd been together."
Hitomi growled. "Does everybody know?" Dilandau smiled. "Probably. I saw the looks Guimel and Gatti were giving us."
Hitomi sighed. "Screw it. I don't care if people know, so long as I can be with you!"
Dilandau smiled at that. "Who would have thought that I'd have fallen in love? Not me, I'll tell you that!" Hitomi laughed. Then she was hit by a vision.
{Black clad figures dropped from the ceiling, blades flashing. They immediately set upon the nobles of the countries. Screams filled the room. Dilandau fought off three at once. A sword struck him, and he stumbled to his knees. The shape he was fighting raised its blade for the final time.}
Hitomi gasped, and stared into Dilandau's concerned face. "Hitomi, what's wrong? Please, tell me what's wrong!"
Hitomi sighed and shivered. "I had a vision. Something terrible is going to happen tonight. I don't know when, but it will happen!" She looked at Dilandau. "Tell Folken. Have the Slayers be prepared. Someone is going to try to murder us all!" He nodded, and ran off to Folken.
Hitomi took another glass of vino. 'I'm gonna get drunk, if I keep this up.' She ignored common sense and sipped her fourth glass. She heard footsteps approach, and she turned to meet them. She wasn't really surprised at what she saw.
Refina wore a black dress that hung to her feet, but clung to every freaking curve she had. It seemed to accent her snake-like personality.
"Hello Hitomi", Refina purred. "Fancy the ball so far?"
"I see nothing to complain about." Hitomi was cautious, but not about to show intimidation. "You seem to be enjoying yourself."
Refina shrugged. "You wouldn't believe how many people have asked me to marry them tonight. Unfortunately, Lord Van keeps me by his side."
"You keep your leash around his neck, you mean." Hitomi shot back. "Hasn't Dornkirk had you killed yet?"
The bitch laughed. "Have you forgotten? I do Lord Dornkirk's killing. And I follow his orders."
"Did he order you to try to kill me?"
"He said I could try if I wanted to. You're an important pawn to him, but just a pawn nonetheless." Refina's smiled like a crocodile. "I however, want you dead. After I've tormented you in ways you can't even imagine."
Hitomi snorted. "Let me guess. You kill my friends one by one. Then you take Dilandau and play with him for a while. Then you torture him to death, and let your fellow assassins rape me. Finally, you twist a sword into my gut, letting me die painfully for an hour or so."
Refina's smile collapsed. "How could you know?" Hitomi grinned.
"I'm psychic, remember? Besides, I watch too much TV."
"You won't think you're so clever after I'm finished tonight!" Refina snarled. "In fact, if we were alone, I'd kill you right now! I'm the best soldier in Zaibach. You don't stand a chance against me!"
"The way I remember it, you lost three teeth the last time we fought."
"You took me by surprise, that's all." Refina regained her calm. "You are a dead girl walking. I can wait. But for now, Lord Van needs me." Refina bowed mockingly, and turned away.
Hitomi looked after her, and saw Van waiting by the musicians. He turned his eyes to her once. They were as cold and haunting as before. Then he took Refina's arm and turned away.
Hitomi watched them go. She thought hard. What did Refina mean, "After I'm finished tonight"? Was she orchestrating the whole evening?
Hitomi chugged the last of her drink, and walked away to find Dilandau. Only time would tell for tonight.
***
Darkness sprawled across the castle of Godashim. The night birds whistled and squawked to each other, and the wind danced and soared with the clouds.
A break in those clouds allowed moonlight to filter down. It lit up the castle with a pale light, causing shadows to quake and shiver.
But then, the shadows came alive.
Several dark figures stepped slowly into the dim light. One made a sign, and they drifted like ghosts to the castle skylight.
***
Hitomi felt drunk.
She hadn't listened to her own warning, and had drunk three more glasses of vino. 'I'm not THAT drunk' She thought, as she somehow managed to walk steadily with Dilandau.
After Hitomi's warning, the slayers had gone on alert. But nothing had happened so far, and she was beginning to wonder if the 'vision' had just been a dream. She shook her head. No dream was that real. Something was going to happen.
She stumbled, and Dilandau caught her. "Maybe it's a good thing we're going now." He said. "You're drunk."
Hitomi scowled unsteadily. "I'm NOT drunk! Well.maybe a little." Dilandau sighed.
"This was an interesting evening. You danced like an angel!"
Hitomi smiled happily. "Thank you!" She was about to say more, when the sense hit her. She stiffened, tipsiness leaving her instantly. "Dilandau. It's happening. Now!"
The glass skylight shattered and several black figures dropped into the ballroom. Laughter quickly changed to screams as the figures drew blades and attacked the nobles. Whistles blew and guards rushed forward. Pandemonium was instantaneous, as the black clad assassins fought with soldiers of Freid, Asturia, Cesario, and other countries.
Dilandau's eyes lit. He drew his katana and cried out, "Dragonslayers attack!" Then he plunged into the fray, the others behind him.
Hitomi drew her sword and blocked an attack by one of the ninja-men. She tried to stab him, but he flipped over her head, and landed behind her. She whirled with him and parried his next blow with a flick of her wrist that sent his blade flying. Then she spun and slashed the enemy across the throat and he died gurgling on his own blood.
Hitomi stared at him for an instant. She had killed someone. And it had been so easy! Something told her that she should feel guilty. But what was it Dilandau had said? "They're just a line on my resume." She said. Then she twisted and deflected a vicious cut.
Now she smiled. "Allen. What a surprise".
The knight smiled as he attacked again. "So good to see you again lady Hitomi. I see that you've reconsidered your decision to dance with me. Mind if I lead?" With that, Allen attacked her with a flurry of jabs and slices designed to knock her out. Imagine his shock when it didn't work. "How did you-"
"Block your attack? Oh please! You don't join Zaibach, become a member of an elite fighter unit, learn how to pilot a 'melef, and slay a dragon without picking up a few tricks on sword fighting!" Hitomi laughed at the look on his face. "People have been giving me that look a lot!"
"So it seems I underestimated you." Allen growled. Then he backed up and went into a defensive stance. "But let's face it. I've been training for ten years, and am the best fighter on the continent. Not even Van or Dilandau have been able to beat me. So why don't you just give up now?"
Hitomi grinned crazily. "Because, you want me alive. And I don't want you alive!" She charged, sword extended.
Allen barely managed to block, and got his knee kicked for good measure. Recovering, he followed up with a slashing blow to Hitomi's leg. She just jumped it and brought her sword down at his head.
The sounds of their fight mixed with the rest of the room. When Allen cried out because Hitomi had cut open his arm, it mixed with cries of pain all over the room. When Hitomi laughed psychotically, it mixed with Dilandau's laugh.
As they fought, Allen came to a realisation: Hitomi was as good as he was, maybe even better! And he was trying to disable her, so she had the advantage. Because one look at her shimmering eyes told him that she was dead serious in her threat to kill him. 'Staying with Dilandau must have drove her crazy!', he thought as he drove the flat of his sword at her head.
Unfortunately, this left him very open. Hitomi did the splitz and Allen's sword swung harmlessly over her head. Then, she slammed the pommel of her sword into his crotch.
Allen gasped and clutched himself, falling to his knees. Hitomi stood up, grinning viciously. "I told you I'd kill you, Allen Schezar. And here I go!"
Allen's eyes widened at the sword Hitomi pointed at his throat. "Don't do it." She snorted.
"Why ever not? You're the one who screwed up my life here! First you claimed I was your lover in front of God knows how many people. Then you try to keep me from being with Van, when that was totally none of your business! Then you treat me like some tool, one of your dime-a-dozen whores!" Hitomi was slavering now. Flecks of spit flew from her mouth and her eyes were dilated. "I'm better then that you cross-dressing homosexual!" She howled. Then smiled. "And you're going to die knowing that!" As she drew back her blade to stab him in the throat, a scream sounded.
"Lord Dilandau!"
Hitomi whirled and saw one of the ninjas about to slice off Dilandau's head. The world moved in slow motion.
Hitomi did the first thing that came to mind. She pulled back and threw her sword. It flew end over end, finally embedding itself in the ninja's chest. When he fell over, Hitomi saw that the Slayers were being overrun. She did the only thing that came to mind. She pulled out her pendant and concentrated.
She was alone. The battle did not exist for her. There was only the pendant and the slayers. 'Take them back. Please, take them back.'
When she opened her eyes, a beam of blue light had shot down through the roof. It caught the Dragonslayers and Folken, and bore them through the roof. Hitomi smiled as she realised that they were safe.
Then she saw stars as pain exploded in her mind.
Then she saw nothing.
***
Allen lifted Hitomi over his shoulder. He threw his crew a hand signal, and they departed the melee. Fleeing the battlefield, he smiled as he stroked his hand through Hitomi's hair.
"I've gotcha mow Hitomi! You're gonna win this war for us! And you were wrong about us not being lovers." He laughed to himself. "You really can't blame me. You're the first woman to resist my advances. Obviously I don't take it well."
A/N: IT'S FINISHED! At last, I have finished chapter twelve! Muahahahaha! Hitomi's been kidnapped by Allen! OH NO! How's Dilly gonna take this? Not well, I can tell you THAT. You've all been so patient, so thank you! And remember: Always review!
A/N: I love you guys! You've all been so kind to me as I write my story. *Spotlights* You like me! You really, really like me! *Tears* Anyway, Hitomi and Dilly go on their first date! And who to our wondering eyes should appear? But Merle! Now, to clear something up. Refina does not appear in every chapter to try to kill Hitomi while screaming like a maniac. That's Dilly's style, and more power to him! But Refina is more like a snake. She waits, bides her time, tries to gain an advantage, and THEN she tries to kill Hitomi! Wait until you see what I've got in store! He, he, he! On with the tale!
Merle padded down the corridors of the Vione, checking the room numbers as she went along. "Hmmm, lets see. Which door was it?" She stopped in front of a door with the Dragonslayer's symbol on it. The cat girl checked the slip of paper she had in her hand. "Ah ha! Here we are!" She then tucked the paper into her pocket and knocked on the door.
A muffled voice answered, "Who is it?"
"It's Merle!"
"Merle? Come on in! I'll be out in a minute!" Merle opened the door and plopped herself down in a chair. Glancing around the room told her that she had come to the right place. There was her backpack. Probably full of weird stuff too. She remembered the last time she had gone through Hitomi's stuff, and wondered if she could get away with it again.
While Merle wondered, Hitomi strolled out of the washroom. She was dressed and ready for the ball, but she was still towelling her hair.
With a squeal of glee, Merle launched herself upon the excited soldier. With a startled oath, Hitomi fell to the floor, Merle on top and jabbering like crazy.
"Hitomi! How have you been? Where have been this last week? Folken said you were hurt and I was worried! Are you all right?"
"I've been fine, I was out training with the guys, yes I was hurt, and", she sighed dreamily", I'm better then alright!" Merle frowned.
"Are you sure you're alright? You sound kind of high." Hitomi blushed. "I am not high! I'm just happy. And how have you been? Weren't you Dilandau's prisoner?"
Merle nodded. "I was. But Folken rescued me! He introduced me to Naria and Eriya, and gave me my own room and everything! But I wanted to get back to Lord Van. So Folken is using this ball as an excuse to get me back to Asturia."
Hitomi smiled. "So you've been having fun?"
"Yep". Merle sighed. "I tell you, the Vione is a great place to visit, but I wouldn't want to live here. How do you do it?"
"Well, a healthy dose of paranoia gets you past day one." She waited for Merle to stop staring. "I know it seems freaky, but once you get to know the people, the machine doesn't matter." Hitomi hesitated. "Are you sure you want to go back to Van? You know something's happened to him."
Merle shivered. "That's why I have to go back. I have to try and help him." Hitomi shook her head in amazement. "You've grown up so much."
Merle seemed about to say something, but bit her tongue. "What is it? Whatever it is, you can ask me."
She hesitated, but finally blurted it out. "Can I see your scar?" Hitomi looked at her for a moment. Then she pulled down her collar. Merle leaned closer. "It's proof that Van's not right." Hitomi nodded, and then pushed it back up.
After the serious talk was done, they fell to reminiscing. They talked about girlish things mostly. How Gatti had a crush on Naria, and how Naria maybe liked him back. But soon enough, things drifted to the war.
"How do you do it? How do you fight for Zaibach?"
Hitomi poured herself and Merle some drinks. "Well, I guess it comes down to a matter of view. When I was with you guys, sure I thought all of Zaibach was evil and how they had to be stopped." She took a sip of her drink and sighed. Merle sniffed at hers suspiciously while Hitomi continued. "But once you get to know the people, you see that they're just fighting to protect their families and country. Most of the people here don't like to fight." She sighed as Merle took a careful sip of her drink. Her eyes bugged out.
"Wow!"
"I know. I have no idea what's in it, but it's my favourite drink here." Hitomi sipped hers again. When Merle recovered, she asked, "So what's your opinion of Asturia, now that you're with Zaibach?" Hitomi snorted.
"The king is an idiot, most the knights are bastards who wouldn't save their own grandmothers if they were being robbed, crime is everywhere, and the guards drag away whoever the crime doesn't get!"
"What about Milerna?" Merle sipped her drink again and went cross- eyed.
"She wasn't so bad. Better then most of the people in Palas."
"What about Allen?" Merle nearly dropped her drink as Hitomi growled.
"Allen was the one who did this to me!" Hitomi pointed at her neck. Merle was stuttering.
"B-but I thought t-that Van-"
"Van didn't even want to come! Allen was the one who pushed for it. Allen was the one who treated me like an object he can use. And ALLEN is the one who attacked my friends and the man I love!" Hitomi threw her glass into the wall. The shattering heralded silence. She just stared at the wall. Merle just looked at her, fright in her eyes.
Then Hitomi sighed. "I'm so sorry Merle. I've been stewing over it since I was hurt. And I've been getting a little.emotional recently. I didn't mean to scare you." She hung her head.
Slowly Merle calmed down. She tossed back the rest of her drink and went cross-eyed again. She needed it. "Don't worry about it. If I were you, I'd have blown up long ago." Hitomi looked up.
"Do you mean that?" Merle nodded and Hitomi hugged her friend. "Thanks."
When the moment had passed, Merle grinned. "So, who's the guy?"
Hitomi blushed wildly. "W-what??"
"You know, the 'man I love'?" Hitomi mumbled something.
Fortunately, she was saved from answering by a knock at the door. In relief, Hitomi opened it, and looked into the smiling face of Guimel. She and Merle just stared. He had really gone all out! His hair was combed, and the scent of Old Spice drifted through the room. "What? Is there something in my teeth?"
Merle babbled something. Guimel grinned even more. "Thank you!" He strode into the room and kissed her hand. Now it was the cat girl's turn to blush.
Guimel turned to Hitomi. "The leva-barge will be leaving soon. You two had better hurry up." With a bow, he turned and offered Merle his arm. "Lord Folken has given me the honour of escorting you to this event fair lady. Shall we go?"
Merle just babbled some more, and took his arm. She looked stunned as Guimel led her and a snickering Hitomi from the room.
***
Godashim was one of the last peaceful cities remaining. It wasn't flashy like Asturia, or technologically advanced like Zaibach. It was elegant, in a simple sort of way. Everyone seemed to be in the same medium of wealth. There was no one particularly rich, and no one particularly poor. People were polite to each other as they passed by and the city guard paid for what they took. There was a sense of polite dignity to the air.
At least that's how it seemed to Hitomi. She noticed that the populace were even polite to the Dragonslayers. A passing farmer saw their crisp military uniforms, and he nodded a polite greeting to them. Guards passed them by without trying to pick fights. Peddlers tried to sell their wares to them. Hitomi shook her head. 'I guess I shouldn't be surprised at that one'.
When they reached the castle, they halted. The ancient building was made of solid stone and would be very difficult to penetrate. The palace gates were wide open, and a herald awaited them.
He bowed. "Ah, good guests! Allow me the honour of escorting you to the banquet hall." He moved quickly before anyone could talk, and they all followed.
Folken sidled up to the man, and Hitomi was close enough to hear the conversation.
"Have any of the other guests arrived as of yet?"
"Why yes good sir! Representatives from Cesario, Daedalus, and Asturia have arrived."
"Could you tell me who the Asturian representatives are?"
"I believe that the knight Allen Schezar is in attendance with Princess Milerna. Various other nobles are here as well. There's so many that I'm afraid I can't remember them all."
"Is the King of Fanalia here too?"
"Ah yes. It's such a shame, you know. A beautiful country like that burned to the ground. I simply can't believe it. My sister was in Fanalia two days before it was destroyed. It's appalling that something like this happens in this day and age."
Hitomi lost the rest of the conversation. So Van was here? And Allen. She clenched her fist just thinking that name! She supposed that she'd have to try to keep good manners, so she wouldn't filet him like sushi. But he'd better watch himself!
As the Slayers and Folken, with Merle bringing up the rear, marched into the ballroom, a herald announced their arrival. "I present, Lord Folken Strategos, Lord Dilandau Albatou, and the Dragonslayers!"
Half-hearted applause mixed with muted grumbling. A large crowd was here already. Apparently, every country had brought as many representatives as Zaibach.
The slayers mingled with the crowd, each one going a separate way. Merle scampered off, looking for Van, and Folken spoke to Duke Freid.
"Ah, my friend. It is good to see you again." Folken opened up. Neither really liked each other, but they respected each other too much to lie.
"Aye, it's good to see you too Folken." Freid was grudging. "I see you've brought the devil boy with you."
"If you mean Dilandau, then you're right. He refused to be let out of the equation."
"One of those kinds, eh? Always screaming for attention". Freid shook his head and Folken nodded. "I've never seen the use for them myself. Why do you keep him around?"
Folken took some punch from a passing servant, and sipped at it before he replied. "The men love him, he's an excellent fighter, he's a good strategist when he's sane, and he's got a reputation like no other." Freid nodded at that. "Aye, he's one of a kind. A strategist eh? He'll be replacing YOU next!"
Folken snorted. "Please! He's not THAT good. And he's got the political skills of a dragon."
"So I found out when he brought me your proposal." Freid looked about the room for the general. He saw him near the fireplace, dancing with a partner. He pointed. "Who's he dancing with? A fellow slayer, by the looks of her".
Folken got a glance and choked on his punch. Dilandau and Hitomi? Dancing??? Recovering, he shrugged. "She's just a new recruit we picked up a week or so ago."
"The boy's taken quite a shine to her, I think. I was talking to one of your boys earlier. You know the one with the bowl cut? He said that she fought and killed a dragon, and took its energist. I think it's on her sword pommel."
Folken stared intently at the duo. Yes, Hitomi had indeed grafted the energist to her sword. It was currently glowing, and made an impressive pommel. He nodded reluctantly. "Yes. She fought a dragon. It was during a training exercise."
Freid chuckled. "Speaking of exercise, Scezar's seen her. Fifty dinare says he goes after her."
Folken eyed Allen eyeing Hitomi, with trepidation. If Schezar tried something, this could get very ugly.
*** A/N: Dinare is the standard currency for Freid. ***
Dilandau sat by himself, in a comfortable chair. In the dim light, his eyes reflected the firelight, and seemed to glow hellishly. A smile curved his lips as he watched the sparks wheel and dance in an intricate pattern of light and heat.
A shadow loomed over him. He looked up and smiled at Hitomi. "Hi girl" He said. Hitomi pulled him up by the hand. "What are you doing?"
She smiled. "We're on a date, remember? We've got to have fun with each other. Besides, you're the handsomest guy here, and I want women to be jealous!"
Dilandau laughed. "Then fun we shall have!" He took Hitomi in his arms as a slow dance started.
The music was slow and beautiful. It sounded like the rain on a window. Hitomi sighed and rested her head on Dilandau's shoulder.
They were alone. By themselves. All of the guests were there around them, talking, laughing, and getting drunk. But the only two who mattered to Hitomi were she and Dilandau. They swayed with the music, never leaving each other's embrace.
As Dilandau twirled her around, a voice interrupted, "Mind if I cut in". There was a slight jostle, and Hitomi blinked, the spell breaking. She was in the arms of.Allen Schezar?
The grinning playboy looked confident. If he thought that his unwilling target wouldn't cause a political incident by breaking away, he had another thing coming!
Hitomi's arms came up, coolly deflecting his hands. "I'm sorry Allen. You're just not my type."
Allen took her in his arms again. "Really? You seemed to be getting along with Dilandau, so I thought you liked men in uniform." Hitomi ground her heel into his foot, but he refused to let go. "Only the ones who don't act like a pig", She snarled. She planted a hand on his chest, then pushed. It worked as well as it had on Dalet, and Allen stumbled back, losing his grip. When he tried to move in again, Dilandau and Chesta stood in front of him. "Excuse me gentlemen, but you are in my way."
Dilandau shrugged easily. "We know. It seems to me that she doesn't want your attention."
Chesta stepped forward. "So back off". Allen wasn't fazed.
"I'm only looking for a dance Dilandau. Are you jealous? Weren't you getting what you wanted from her?" Allen shrugged. "It doesn't matter to me, I can get that sort of thing from any other woman in this room."
Dilandau flushed an ugly red. "How dare you talk about her like that? She's not some forty cent whore you can find on a street!"
Allen glanced nonchalantly at Chesta, and returned his gaze to Dilandau. "I seem to have struck a chord. Is she really that good? I wouldn't know." Dilandau's eyes widened, but before he could move, Hitomi stepped in front of him. She faced Allen, her eyes as hard as the jewels they were compared to.
"I'd get out of here Allen, before you're building villages in Freid as well as Asturia. Oops. I forgot. You already have!"
Allen's eyes widened, and Dilandau and Chesta laughed.
A/N: That means he's got more bastard children then he can count. Let's say that it's a Gaean insult.
Allen growled something unintelligible. When he was through, his voice was calm, if cold. "I see that I should take my dance offers elsewhere. Just remember," Now he grinned, "That feisty women intrigue me." Before anyone could move, he moved his head down and captured Hitomi's lips for an instant, then pulled back.
***
The slap echoed throughout the room, killing the music and talk. All eyes turned to the scene, where a furious, green-eyed girl, was facing a blond knight Caeli, with a large red handprint on his cheek. The knight bowed and walked away, and the festivities continued. Duke Freid burst into laughter.
Folken merely smiled. That had gone better than he'd hoped.
Hitomi, meanwhile, was seething over Allen. Chesta was a little worried. Her eyes had that killing-spree look again. "Are you okay Hitomi?" She looked at him and smiled, her eyes going back to normal.
"I'm alright. He just sickens me, that's all." Dilandai sighed in relief. Then he caught Folken giving him the 'come here' hand signals, and he grimaced. Turning to Hitomi, he said, "I've got to go for a moment. I'll be right back though."
Hitomi smiled forgivingly. "Of course. I'll just find some old friends." She kissed Dilandau quickly, then headed off to the refreshments table.
She poured herself a glass of vino and headed out into the crowd.
She had to fend off three noblemen looking for dance partners, but she found who she was looking for. Hitomi headed towards her, and initiated a conversation. "Lots of people here, aren't there?" Blinking at this obvious statement, Millerna looked to see who was talking.
"Hitomi!" Millerna shook her friend's hand. "It's been a while. What happened to you? Van and Allen just said that you went traitor".
Hitomi sighed and shook her head. "I just changed my opinion about this whole war. Asturia was making me miserable, so I left."
"And how's Zaibach been treating you?"
"Well enough. I've got new friends, a guymelef, a sword." Millerna whistled at that.
"Sounds like you've been keeping busy." Millerna said. Hitomi nodded, and she continued. "What's it like being a soldier?"
Hitomi smiled, and downed her downed before answering. "It's a hell of a lot more exciting then being a tagalong, I'll tell you that. The other day, when we were training in the forest, I slew a dragon." Millerna gasped, and Hitomi nodded. "It was a big bastard too. Soldier life does have its drawbacks, though."
"How so?"
"Well, people try to kill you, for one. You get screamed at by your superiors, for another." Hitomi sighed, and sipped at her drink. She remembered that she'd drunk it all, and she sighed. "Hold that thought." She refilled her glass from a passing servant and resumed the conversation. "How are things going for you?"
Millerna started. "Well, father's finally let me set up a hospital a train some nurses. Yesterday, I removed an arrow from someone's shoulder!"
"Really?" Hitomi shook her head. "I don't see how you do it!"
"Well. It all comes down to how you want to run your life. I want to help people, but I'm not built to be a fighter." Millerna sighed as she waved a dainty arm. "So, I decided to help people who were hurt instead. Allen's been trying to get me to become one of those dainty ladies who couldn't swat a dead fly on a cold windowsill! He said that women should be ladies, not tomboys." She laughed and clapped Hitomi on the shoulder. "We're living proof that he should put that theory on the shelf!"
Hitomi smiled. "So what else is new?"
"Allen's trying to catch some Zaibach soldier. He keeps saying that she's the key to beating Zaibach." Millerna trailed off and stared at Hitomi, who was inspecting her glass. All of a sudden, Millerna grinned. "I see. That would explain why he wants you back so much. I thought that he just wanted to sleep with you."
"Probably that too." Hitomi mumbled. Millerna was shocked. "What?"
Hitomi related her encounter with Allen, and Millerna's shock changed to revulsion. "God! I'm glad I dumped him!" Hitomi nodded and sipped her drink again. Millerna continued. "Actually, that reminds me. I keep seeing Van with some other woman in Palas." Hitomi sprayed vino all over Millerna, who looked revolted. "Thanks a lot!"
"Another woman?! Who?" Millerna smiled. "Jealous, are we?" Hitomi scowled. "NO! I'm over Van. I've got someone else! I'm just surprised that he's with somebody while this war goes on! Now, who is she?"
Millerna thought. "Well, she's got long, blonde hair that's back in a ponytail. She has blue eyes and a creepy smile. Van's been acting really weird since she came. I think her name's."
"Refina" Hitomi whispered.
Millerna nodded. "That's her name. I think she's here with Van."
Hitomi went cold. Refina was here? "Oh crap."
Millerna kind of stared. "What's the big deal? You admitted that you didn't like Van," Now Millerna smiled shrewdly, "And you said that you had found someone else."
Hitomi mentally kicked herself. The way she was going, EVERYONE would find out about her and Dilandau. "Listen to me Millerna. This woman is Emperor Dornkirk's personal assassin, and an AWOL Dragonslayer!"
Millerna paled. "Are you serious?"
"Dead serious. What's more, she's done something to Van, some sort of injection. That's why he's being so creepy recently!" Hitomi shuddered. "Please. We have to help Van. I may not love him anymore, but he's still my friend. Tell Merle, she'll be coming back to Palas with you."
"I think we may have a bigger problem." Hitomi winced.
"What is it?"
"I think Refina and Allen are in on something together. When she's not with Van, those two are never around. That's one of the reasons why I broke up with Allen, I caught them on the roof together. And they were doing more than looking at the view."
Hitomi downed her second glass of vino, and called for a third. She downed that too, and felt a bit better. "Life gets better and better. Can you imagine that I came here on a date?"
"With who? Your new lover?"
Hitomi slapped herself across the face. "Damn it!" She sighed. "I can't get away from this one, can I?" Millerna smiled and shook her head. Hitomi sighed. "Alright, alright. I'll tell you. But it's a secret." Millerna nodded seriously. Hitomi leaned forward. "It's Dilandau."
Millerna stared at her for ten seconds. Then SHE grabbed a glass of vino off of a servant, and chugged it down. When her head cleared, she shook it. "I didn't see that coming."
Hitomi smiled. "Neither did I. But when you find love, you don't look a gift horse in the mouth."
Millerna looked confused and Hitomi sighed. "You don't try to figure out how it happened, because you might wreck it that way."
Millerna smiled and pointed. "Speaking wrecking things, here comes your boyfriend!"
Dilandau sauntered over to the two girls. He barely gave Millerna a look before he kissed Hitomi. When he pulled back, he asked, "Are you ready for another dance?"
Hitomi nodded breathlessly, and walked away, Dilandau's arm around her shoulder. Millerna watched as the two left, smiling ruefully. "I hope those two are happy together."
***
"So what did Folken want to talk to you about?"
Dilandau dipped his girlfriend in time to the music. "He wanted to know how long we'd been together."
Hitomi growled. "Does everybody know?" Dilandau smiled. "Probably. I saw the looks Guimel and Gatti were giving us."
Hitomi sighed. "Screw it. I don't care if people know, so long as I can be with you!"
Dilandau smiled at that. "Who would have thought that I'd have fallen in love? Not me, I'll tell you that!" Hitomi laughed. Then she was hit by a vision.
{Black clad figures dropped from the ceiling, blades flashing. They immediately set upon the nobles of the countries. Screams filled the room. Dilandau fought off three at once. A sword struck him, and he stumbled to his knees. The shape he was fighting raised its blade for the final time.}
Hitomi gasped, and stared into Dilandau's concerned face. "Hitomi, what's wrong? Please, tell me what's wrong!"
Hitomi sighed and shivered. "I had a vision. Something terrible is going to happen tonight. I don't know when, but it will happen!" She looked at Dilandau. "Tell Folken. Have the Slayers be prepared. Someone is going to try to murder us all!" He nodded, and ran off to Folken.
Hitomi took another glass of vino. 'I'm gonna get drunk, if I keep this up.' She ignored common sense and sipped her fourth glass. She heard footsteps approach, and she turned to meet them. She wasn't really surprised at what she saw.
Refina wore a black dress that hung to her feet, but clung to every freaking curve she had. It seemed to accent her snake-like personality.
"Hello Hitomi", Refina purred. "Fancy the ball so far?"
"I see nothing to complain about." Hitomi was cautious, but not about to show intimidation. "You seem to be enjoying yourself."
Refina shrugged. "You wouldn't believe how many people have asked me to marry them tonight. Unfortunately, Lord Van keeps me by his side."
"You keep your leash around his neck, you mean." Hitomi shot back. "Hasn't Dornkirk had you killed yet?"
The bitch laughed. "Have you forgotten? I do Lord Dornkirk's killing. And I follow his orders."
"Did he order you to try to kill me?"
"He said I could try if I wanted to. You're an important pawn to him, but just a pawn nonetheless." Refina's smiled like a crocodile. "I however, want you dead. After I've tormented you in ways you can't even imagine."
Hitomi snorted. "Let me guess. You kill my friends one by one. Then you take Dilandau and play with him for a while. Then you torture him to death, and let your fellow assassins rape me. Finally, you twist a sword into my gut, letting me die painfully for an hour or so."
Refina's smile collapsed. "How could you know?" Hitomi grinned.
"I'm psychic, remember? Besides, I watch too much TV."
"You won't think you're so clever after I'm finished tonight!" Refina snarled. "In fact, if we were alone, I'd kill you right now! I'm the best soldier in Zaibach. You don't stand a chance against me!"
"The way I remember it, you lost three teeth the last time we fought."
"You took me by surprise, that's all." Refina regained her calm. "You are a dead girl walking. I can wait. But for now, Lord Van needs me." Refina bowed mockingly, and turned away.
Hitomi looked after her, and saw Van waiting by the musicians. He turned his eyes to her once. They were as cold and haunting as before. Then he took Refina's arm and turned away.
Hitomi watched them go. She thought hard. What did Refina mean, "After I'm finished tonight"? Was she orchestrating the whole evening?
Hitomi chugged the last of her drink, and walked away to find Dilandau. Only time would tell for tonight.
***
Darkness sprawled across the castle of Godashim. The night birds whistled and squawked to each other, and the wind danced and soared with the clouds.
A break in those clouds allowed moonlight to filter down. It lit up the castle with a pale light, causing shadows to quake and shiver.
But then, the shadows came alive.
Several dark figures stepped slowly into the dim light. One made a sign, and they drifted like ghosts to the castle skylight.
***
Hitomi felt drunk.
She hadn't listened to her own warning, and had drunk three more glasses of vino. 'I'm not THAT drunk' She thought, as she somehow managed to walk steadily with Dilandau.
After Hitomi's warning, the slayers had gone on alert. But nothing had happened so far, and she was beginning to wonder if the 'vision' had just been a dream. She shook her head. No dream was that real. Something was going to happen.
She stumbled, and Dilandau caught her. "Maybe it's a good thing we're going now." He said. "You're drunk."
Hitomi scowled unsteadily. "I'm NOT drunk! Well.maybe a little." Dilandau sighed.
"This was an interesting evening. You danced like an angel!"
Hitomi smiled happily. "Thank you!" She was about to say more, when the sense hit her. She stiffened, tipsiness leaving her instantly. "Dilandau. It's happening. Now!"
The glass skylight shattered and several black figures dropped into the ballroom. Laughter quickly changed to screams as the figures drew blades and attacked the nobles. Whistles blew and guards rushed forward. Pandemonium was instantaneous, as the black clad assassins fought with soldiers of Freid, Asturia, Cesario, and other countries.
Dilandau's eyes lit. He drew his katana and cried out, "Dragonslayers attack!" Then he plunged into the fray, the others behind him.
Hitomi drew her sword and blocked an attack by one of the ninja-men. She tried to stab him, but he flipped over her head, and landed behind her. She whirled with him and parried his next blow with a flick of her wrist that sent his blade flying. Then she spun and slashed the enemy across the throat and he died gurgling on his own blood.
Hitomi stared at him for an instant. She had killed someone. And it had been so easy! Something told her that she should feel guilty. But what was it Dilandau had said? "They're just a line on my resume." She said. Then she twisted and deflected a vicious cut.
Now she smiled. "Allen. What a surprise".
The knight smiled as he attacked again. "So good to see you again lady Hitomi. I see that you've reconsidered your decision to dance with me. Mind if I lead?" With that, Allen attacked her with a flurry of jabs and slices designed to knock her out. Imagine his shock when it didn't work. "How did you-"
"Block your attack? Oh please! You don't join Zaibach, become a member of an elite fighter unit, learn how to pilot a 'melef, and slay a dragon without picking up a few tricks on sword fighting!" Hitomi laughed at the look on his face. "People have been giving me that look a lot!"
"So it seems I underestimated you." Allen growled. Then he backed up and went into a defensive stance. "But let's face it. I've been training for ten years, and am the best fighter on the continent. Not even Van or Dilandau have been able to beat me. So why don't you just give up now?"
Hitomi grinned crazily. "Because, you want me alive. And I don't want you alive!" She charged, sword extended.
Allen barely managed to block, and got his knee kicked for good measure. Recovering, he followed up with a slashing blow to Hitomi's leg. She just jumped it and brought her sword down at his head.
The sounds of their fight mixed with the rest of the room. When Allen cried out because Hitomi had cut open his arm, it mixed with cries of pain all over the room. When Hitomi laughed psychotically, it mixed with Dilandau's laugh.
As they fought, Allen came to a realisation: Hitomi was as good as he was, maybe even better! And he was trying to disable her, so she had the advantage. Because one look at her shimmering eyes told him that she was dead serious in her threat to kill him. 'Staying with Dilandau must have drove her crazy!', he thought as he drove the flat of his sword at her head.
Unfortunately, this left him very open. Hitomi did the splitz and Allen's sword swung harmlessly over her head. Then, she slammed the pommel of her sword into his crotch.
Allen gasped and clutched himself, falling to his knees. Hitomi stood up, grinning viciously. "I told you I'd kill you, Allen Schezar. And here I go!"
Allen's eyes widened at the sword Hitomi pointed at his throat. "Don't do it." She snorted.
"Why ever not? You're the one who screwed up my life here! First you claimed I was your lover in front of God knows how many people. Then you try to keep me from being with Van, when that was totally none of your business! Then you treat me like some tool, one of your dime-a-dozen whores!" Hitomi was slavering now. Flecks of spit flew from her mouth and her eyes were dilated. "I'm better then that you cross-dressing homosexual!" She howled. Then smiled. "And you're going to die knowing that!" As she drew back her blade to stab him in the throat, a scream sounded.
"Lord Dilandau!"
Hitomi whirled and saw one of the ninjas about to slice off Dilandau's head. The world moved in slow motion.
Hitomi did the first thing that came to mind. She pulled back and threw her sword. It flew end over end, finally embedding itself in the ninja's chest. When he fell over, Hitomi saw that the Slayers were being overrun. She did the only thing that came to mind. She pulled out her pendant and concentrated.
She was alone. The battle did not exist for her. There was only the pendant and the slayers. 'Take them back. Please, take them back.'
When she opened her eyes, a beam of blue light had shot down through the roof. It caught the Dragonslayers and Folken, and bore them through the roof. Hitomi smiled as she realised that they were safe.
Then she saw stars as pain exploded in her mind.
Then she saw nothing.
***
Allen lifted Hitomi over his shoulder. He threw his crew a hand signal, and they departed the melee. Fleeing the battlefield, he smiled as he stroked his hand through Hitomi's hair.
"I've gotcha mow Hitomi! You're gonna win this war for us! And you were wrong about us not being lovers." He laughed to himself. "You really can't blame me. You're the first woman to resist my advances. Obviously I don't take it well."
A/N: IT'S FINISHED! At last, I have finished chapter twelve! Muahahahaha! Hitomi's been kidnapped by Allen! OH NO! How's Dilly gonna take this? Not well, I can tell you THAT. You've all been so patient, so thank you! And remember: Always review!