A/N: Konnichiwa minna! Here you go, chapter 28! Our happy lil' slayers are going to have a cute little dance because the pairs were so rushed. oO;;;;;; *Cough* Ahem, I'd like to have a quick thank you to everyone who actually reviewed the survey I had correctly/the way I asked. Thank you, Chichirui and ElvenChild… oO;;;; Yah, they were the only ones… O_O Anyway, I decided to break TGA up and have a sequel. The sequel will most likely continue right off where I had TGA end if I ever get around to it.
Warning: Somehow over the Christmas break I've become one of those hopeless romance writers or something… heh, because the couples were so rushed it gets SAPPY in this chapter! Grit your teeth and wait it out because the next one's the total opposite, all blood and pain.
Disclaimer: Victoria heard a table fall over and a grinding noise and went to investigate. She opened the door and saw none other the Mrchezzysnickers who had just eaten 384 whole roles of cheese and was gnawing away at a rind. *Burp* Victoria backed away appalled. "Chez!" "What?" she asked lazily. "That was rude!" Victoria said tapping her fingers "You didn't save any for me!" … "Hehehe," Chez giggled when Victoria commented how many cheese crumbs she had all over her. She patted her stomach and picked up a napkin and wiped her face off. "AHHHH! THAT WAS NO NAPKIN… THAT WAS THE DEED TO ESCAFLOWNE…"
Yet again the deed has slipped through Victoria's fingers, leaving her with only a fan fiction about The Dragon Slayers of Zaibach.
To: Pablo/Cecil: No, I'm not renaming TGA!!! The 'AGAIN' is because 'To Gaea' would be a fic about when Hitomi made the first journey there, iie? Yes, I'm sure a formal dance held by royalty would have many other royalties abroad. However, I tried to stress that this was just a casual fiesta sort of thing for the Slayers and Destiny Army only to let them relax and have some fun before the huge battle. *Cough* (And because the couples were so rushed I needed a scene for romance, ya know?) Even if it were a 'ball' I don't think many royalty would come considering Zaibach is the 'sworn enemy of Gaea.' My apologies for the informalities. Not everyone will dance with everyone else. The reason I didn't let anyone vote on the person you dance with is because you'll dance with everyone, Mr. Neutral! When I held the pole it meant which person MAINLY.
Where we left off: With only one hour to go, the entire Vione was buzzing with activity … not a mind dwelt on the fight against Basrahm save for General Dilandau Albatou, who sat alone over maps and his wine.
(Ok, you know that sound where you suck air in through your teeth? … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … Hahahaha! I bet you just tried making that sound! ^_^;;;;; Ahem, my point is it starts off with Dilly doing that. Heh, heh …)
Chapter 28: The Endless Dream
Dilandau slouched on the floor of his room surrounded by many empty wine bottles. He rolled his eyes in the back of his head and picked up his dagger with the Zaibach insignia. He gripped the hilt and craftily threw it in such a way that it embedded itself into an empty bottle without shattering the fine glass.
He brought his head up to inspect the effect of the simple flick of a wrist. It hit right on the line through the middle. Dilandau staggered up and opened his wine cabinent. He had a high tolerance for alcohol and he was still alert and ready. Dilandau growled and cleared a path through the wine bottles and sat in a simple wooden chair. He flipped through many maps on faded parchment.
"Austuria, Basrahm, Chezario, Daedalus, Egzardia, Freid …"
Doinkork was driven mad by the dream that all the countries of Gaea would be united into one under his rule. What did his new Emperor fight for?
He gulped down another shot and pondered over his Slayers and Emperor. This man, Pablo… why would he order this, this dance? His soldiers did not need pleasantries and humor! They needed discipline and punishment. Such was the way of the warrior. Elements such as those were needed to mold a fighter's spirit.
In truth, what they needed was extra training on this day! Awoken two hours early, and no breaks what-so-ever. That is what they needed. If anything, their 'pleasantries' would he a hearty last meal and an hour extra sleep.
Dilandau retrieved his dagger and sighed, downing more of the potent liquid. His Slayers, what of them? He paced his way to the Training Gym and looked inside. The clank of swords varied thinly through the air. Dilandau browsed the contents of few soldiers who fought. The sixteen men who formed the original Ryuugekitai were not there; not a single one of them. The Destiny Army? No; of course not… the weak women would be fretting over their dresses and hair.
He froze in his spot, closing his eyes he wondered what would have been if the new-comers had never been on the Vione at all. The image was clear to him. The gym would be full of every man on the Vione. Day and night: training, training… yes, that was it.
"Mmmmmm …" he smiled; a first in a very long time.
He was snapped back to reality by a reluctant tap on the shoulder.
"L-Lord Dilandau? Are, you alright?"
Dilandau growled and drew his sword, embedding it in the young man's shoulder. He fell to the ground and tears of pain could be seen through the corners of his eyes.
"Pathetic…" Dilandau thought, taking the sword out of the wound "what was that boy's name anyway?"
It took him a moment to remember. His name was David. He was a new recruit picked up from a burning village on the western border of Egzardia. So many countless faces amongst the lost souls of Zaibach.
"Go to the Infirmary." he commanded and turned around, going back to his room and his wine.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Aaaannnnnnd a one, and two, and a three and four…"
Finally the men had the dances down pat. Everyone had showered and changed and the girls had calmed down enough to think. Ry pulled out his guitar and practiced some up-beat songs. As the hour approached the Emperor made his way to the Mess Hall where the dance was going to be held.
The gloomy and simple look of the Mess Hall had been taken out of the room along with many of the tables and chairs. Some of them still remained, but only the few set up for the party. There were about seven long tables aligned at the back of the room with a white tablecloth trimmed in scarlet over them. Pablo approved of the exotic and colorful entrées of snack foods and numerous choices of fine fruit juices imported from far off countries in the east to choose from. Along the edge, he was amused to see his special request for beverage had been added. Furry banana squeegy shakes for his peculiar soldiers to enjoy. He was sure the Destiny Army would find it much to their liking. He walked around and surveyed the paper streamers and lanterns. A half-hearted smile played on his lips. The Vione needed a little fun once and a while.
Before they knew it, it was time. The doors were opened and the soldiers, feeling foreign without their heavy uniforms and swords, took in an unfamiliar Mess Hall. Not only the Dragon Slayers and Destiny Army attended. Although the thought had never occurred to the Ryuugekitai, because many of the Zaibach soldiers were regular towns folk taken from burning villages, many knew how to play instruments. There was a small stage with about eleven players on it. Many of them were only young boys…
Some of the Ryuugekitai took seats and took a sip of something to drink or a nibble of something to eat as they waited on the arrival of the girls. Viole had practically chewed his nails off in anticipation. Miguel paced, Dallet seemed to be thinking about what to say, Gatti leaned against a wall calmly, and Ry was no where to be found.
The girls arrived stylishly five minutes late. It was hard to recognize them. Where were the roguish little soldier girls? Before them stood tranquil and mature women. All of their lives, all these men had done was fight and work. Many fumbled on how to act or what to do. They may be a black-belt in fighting but they were a white-belt in this category. Some of them walked straight up to a certain girl and gawked awkwardly.
Viole managed her name. "Shay."
"Hmmm?" she blinked up at him. Shay wore a simple white dress that went just below her knees with a light blue shawl draped over her shoulders.
He smiled charmingly. "What have you done with my Shay?" he asked and resisted the urge to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear.
Viole stepped back and his eyes bugged out. "Shay, what's wrong?!"
Shay's cheeks puffed out and her face grew red. She paused a moment and then burst out laughing. And for only the third time in his entire life, Viole laughed. They both laughed lightly and he felt his face grew warm at the sight of her.
Kenju wore a short red dress that brought out her reddish-brow hair and mysterious brown eyes with a hint of green in them. She clutched her thin silver necklace and walked over to the table nearest the wall Gatti was still leaning on. He fidgeted and side-glanced over at her until he got the nerve to walk over to her. He looked down and grunted to acknowledge her. She got a devilish twinkle in her eye and as soon as he looked up her wrist cunningly flicked a dagger in front of her face. His eyes bulged and he stumbled backwards. She smiled and cut off a slice of cheese. He gained back his cool composure although he no longer felt tense. His face melted into a smile.
He ignored his pride and mumbled, "You- you look very… pretty."
She looked at him knowingly. "Not bad yourself."
Kit was nothing short of radiant. She had her dark brown hair pulled up in a ponytail and in the light you could see the golden highlights. She wore a dark blue dress with spaghetti straps that brought out the color of her hazel eyes. She smiled warmly when she saw none other than Miguel Lavalier, the always ever so proud and never surprised soldier, fumble toward her.
"You look wonderful" he said and pulled out a brilliant red rose and gave it to her.
Chesta got up from the table and jogged up to Kiran. She was wearing an Elven looking green dress from Godashim that went with her emerald eyes and dirty blond hair. He turned beat red when he saw her and went back to his seat. Kiran felt hurt and confused. Did she look that bad? She went to Dallet, Chesta's best friend, and asked. He looked at her confused.
"All of you look very beautiful… go and ask Chesta why he did that. He always has good reasoning for anything he does." he smiled and shoved her lightly in Chesta's direction. "Go on… If I know Chesta, he's just being shy."
She began walking toward Chesta's table when she saw Dallet still standing in the same place. She looked back at the entrance and saw Victoria standing alone in a dazzling silver dress and scanning the room with her sharp golden eyes.
"Oh go on, Dallet… it's now or never." she whispered and continued to Chesta.
Dallet was right. Kiran sat down at Chesta's table and he went all red again and stuttered.
Dallet drew in a breath and forced his feet to move toward Victoria. It's what he wanted to do, so he couldn't be scared.
"Don't say or do anything stupid, go for charming" he urged himself.
He opened his eyes and took in every detail. He never wanted to forget how she looked that night. He gazed down at the pale complexion framing her face that had a hint of crimson to its hue and tilted her chin up to meet his gaze. He traced the outline of her jaw fondly before he realized what he was doing. He dropped his hand immediately.
"I'm sorry" he said hurriedly. "You look stunning."
"Thank you…" she whispered and blinked.
Before now she had not thought of Dallet as handsome. He was good looking, sure, but now all she could think is that he was rugged and brawny. Her face felt heated. He wore a plain white T-shirt with black pants. Nothing fancy, but… she continued to stare at him when he grabbed her arm and pulled her toward the middle of the room.
"Dance with me."
A simple request? Demand? No. It was a statement. She couldn't have stopped herself from dancing with him if she wanted. She closed her eyes and thought of his purple tinted brown eyes. So deep and… she knew now that all she wanted to do then was stay in that moment forever, with Dallet. How long they were dancing she didn't know. She had one arm around his neck and the other on his shoulder. He placed his around her waist and for what seemed an eternity they just moved around in circles, holding each other. It was hypnotic. She was in a trance.
"This must be love." she thought she heard Dallet whisper. "Or else I've died and an angle is embracing me before I perish."
She opened her eyes and took in her surroundings. Viole was running after Shay who was running after Kiran, claiming she had stolen her cheese. She looked to another side of the room and was surprised to see Willow and Folken in the same trance she and Dallet were lost in.
It was custom that Emperor Pablo was to dance with every girl and he was dancing with Kit by now. He made a comment about the dress she was wearing and she smiled and thanked him. Kit's partner, Miguel, was currently dancing with Madina, in a nearby corner. They had never seen Madina in a dress before. After all, she was the mechanic…
Victoria could see Miguel's surprised look and him saying something to her that caused him to blush and babble. She closed her eyes again and listened to Dallet's steady and warm heartbeat.
Dilandau stealthily, considering his drunken state, crawled around dark corners and under tables until he reached the drinks and punches. He took out bottle after bottle of his wine and other alcoholic beverages and poured them in every drink, giggling. His bliss ended when he continued pouring them into the furry banana squeegy shakes and all they did was make a gurgling noise and then suck it in like a sponge.
The song changed from the slow and comforting melody to a horrible, dramatic song expected to be in a horror film. It was like lightning in a windy storm. Dallet and Victoria's heads snapped up to locate the source. On the stage was Captain Ry, raking his fingers over the cords. Once he had gotten everyone's attention, he began an up beat tune that seemed to wake everyone up. Dallet blinked and wondered how long he had danced like that. He looked down and smiled at her. It was like a fairytale, he thought.
"I'm sorry to intercept" Pablo cut in on Dallet "Do you mind if I dance with Victoria for a bit?"
"Uh, no… not at all." Dallet said. "I'll just go get a drink."
Ciari, who had joined the little chase of Shay's, ran over Dallet on his way to the other side of the room. She wiggled her eyebrows and dusted herself off.
"Oh, it's you!" she said grinning evilly "I thought Victoria had snatched you up for the entire evening!"
She grabbed him and drug him to dance with her. The song was abrupt. Pablo moved on to dance with Kenju and Dallet moved to go back to Victoria. Ciari pulled him back.
"You were in my way when I was running, thus you tripped me and didn't even apologize. Then you dance with me for a song and don't get me something to drink?" she said.
Dallet blinked. "Ok, I'll get you some punch."
When he turned his back Ciari made a signal to Ry, motioning him down off the stage. He put his guitar down and weaved through the crowd. He hadn't even caught a glimpse of Victoria all evening. The crowd was thick and people kept moving… he had been busy playing his guitar, too.
He couldn't find her like this he thought, and by the time I do Dallet will be dancing with her… I just know it! He looked to Ciari who pointed to a patch of people to the left in the back. He caught a glimpse of lavender hair through the crowd. This is it, he thought. My moment…
Victoria nodded and said good bye to some girl he didn't know with blond hair and turned around to look at him. It was all in slow motion to Ry. He couldn't breathe or think. Before even exchanging greetings, Ry took her by the waist and twirled her.
With all of the events occurring that night she had almost forgotten about Ry. Him not being there when the dance began didn't help her remember either. She stared into those emerald eyes, framed with rich black hair and he back at her, golden framed by lavender. His hold on her was strong and reassuring.
"May I have this dance?" he asked.
She smiled warmly. "Yes."
It was a quick song with plenty of beat and rhythm.
"You're a great dancer." she said.
"You too," he answered back, "Are you thirsty? Let's get a drink…"
He led her through the crowd and to the tables. Ry chose a red colored punch and Victoria took delight in the furry banana squeegy shakes. Both were good and had a hint of something they couldn't identify. Dilandau laughed incessantly as the two downed more of his spiked drinks.
After a few more drinks they shared another dance. Ry looked around the room and saw that Pablo customarily had a dance with each female.
"You know, it is kind of rude to only dance with one person" he said sadly.
"You're right… I'll catch up with you later?"
Ry smiled, "Save the last dance for me."
Ry made conversation with Madina and the two of them danced while Victoria politely danced with Gatti.
"How are you enjoying the party?" she asked.
He smiled and waved at Kenju. "It's better then I thought it would be."
She laughed and when the dance was over he went back to Kenju and Victoria rotated to dance with Viole. She didn't even need to ask how he was enjoying it.
"This is a great party." he said "I've already have several dances with Shay."
Victoria looked at him surprised. "Really? That's pretty amazing… I figured she'd be glued to the table full of cheese or be running around screaming she about her squirrel rations…"
Viole looked deep in thought. "That's the thing about her." he said watching her jumping up and down around a random person yelling about mold or something or other. "She's so full of life and so different."
She thought he was going to continue on about her when he gave her a serious look.
"What about YOU?" he inquired.
"What do you mean?" she asked on guard.
He gave a disapproving look. "Isn't it obvious? You have to make a choice."
The song ended and he walked off before she could say anything. She stood still in shock. What did he mean?
Victoria decided to take a break off dancing. She stopped and talked with a few people on her way to the refreshments.
"Folken! Willow!" she greeted them happily.
They smiled. "It's so nice to see you two here!" Victoria said.
"Yes," Willow answered with a smile "Folken and I are a couple now."
"What do you mean?" Victoria looked at them quizzically and Willow showed Victoria a beautiful golden ring with a diamond on it.
"Oh my gosh!" she exclaimed and hugged them "I'm so happy for you!"
It was an amazing thought. She looked up at Folken and saw him blushing. What a sight! She understood now. They'd spent so much time together and no one ever knew where the two of them were. It hit her like a mallet when she thought of their week long disappearance.
Willow looked down sadly. "We'll be leaving Zaibach after the battle tomorrow." she said. "We're the only remaining living royalty of Fanelia now… together we will gather back Fanelia's people and rebuild her. Then we'll rule with Escaflowne as our guardian."
It was an amazing story and she wished them happiness and luck. It was not Fanelia or Escaflowne that she hated. It was Van, the arrogant and murderous boy who would have destroyed Zaibach's future.
"Hey!" Ry said walking up to her, "I'm sorry for taking so long. I had to dance with a few friends and play a few songs."
She brightened. "That's ok. Do you want to dance?"
"Yes." he answered.
Victoria looked around the room at all of the couples dancing. Viole and Shay. Willow and Folken. Kiran and Chesta. Kenju and Gatti. Kit and Miguel.
They all looked so happy. Now that she thought of it… how long had they been on the Vione? It seemed like they had always been there. They all were like a big family. It was always these same pairs sitting at the Mess Hall, sparring, and talking…
Pablo was currently dancing with Madina. Ciari nodded approvingly at her work while she chatted and danced with Dallet. Victoria blinked and noticed that the whole time they'd been on the Vione that Ciari was always whispering something about someone to someone else.
"Doesn't Gatti look nice today, Kenju?" "I think Viole's looking at you, Shay!" *Nudge, nudge* "Kirany-schnizzles! Stop staring at Chesta and get back to sparring." She'd laugh and make it out to be a joke but…
The song ended and everyone clapped. Pablo nodded to Madina and decided to dance with Kit again. One of the players stood in the front and announced it was the final song. Miguel asked Madina to dance with him. The band struck up the note and Ciari looked across the room disapprovingly at Victoria and Ry smiling at each other as they danced.
"We've got to work quickly." she whispered and grabbed Dallet and ran through the crowd. Dallet and Ciari pretended to dance and they came closer to Ry and Victoria. Ciari did a sort of twirl and purposefully caught her foot under Ry's and fell flat on the ground.
"Are you cross-eyed?!" she demanded.
"Wha?" he blinked.
Ciari grabbed him by the collar and pointed at her ankle. "It's probably broken!"
Dallet slipped in between them and took Victoria to a different part on the dance floor. They began to dance. Victoria opened her mouth to comment on Ciari's commotion on Ry when Dallet quieted her.
"Shhh… don't say anything at all," he said and tightened his grip on her.
The song was slow and almost sad. When it was done the audience exploded in applause. People began talking and saying farewells. Tomorrow they had the battle of their lives on their hands and they needed rest. Dallet had his eyes closed and continued dancing in circles even thought the song was over.
"Dallet." she whispered.
"Hmmm?" he answered.
She let go of him and he opened his eyes, blushing.
"The song's over. Thank you. I had a wonderful time."
He smiled. "I did also." He gave her a quick hug. "I'll see you tomorrow."
She waved as he left.
"Hey," Ry frowned and walked over to her. "I was looking forward to the last dance with you…"
She opened her mouth to apologize when he continued talking.
"That's why I can't believe I was clumsy enough to trip Ciari. Heh, I didn't even realize she was there… anyway though. Did you have a good time?"
"Yes," she smiled "I did. You were really great up there."
He laughed. "No, it was nothing… come on, I'm sure you're tired… I'll walk you to your room."
He offered his arm and she took it. They walked down the Vione halls and recalled events that evening. They reached her room and he paused before leaning down and kissing her.
"Good night. See you tomorrow."
She felt dizzy and tired so she entered her room and flopped down on her bed and closed her eyes.
She saw Dallet.
She saw Ry.
"Isn't it obvious?" a voice echoed in the back of her mind "You have to make a choice."
She gasped and shot up in her bed. Pale gray light filtered in through her balcony. She swung her legs over the side and opened a window. She walked to her bathroom and splashed water onto her face. She stared down at her pale white hands and peered at the mirror. She closed her eyes and saw that innocent pale girl who stared back at her from the glass every morning mercilessly slaughtering men who probably had wives and children. She saw her own hands covered in blood.
Was this the end? Maybe her skin would be caked with her own blood that day and she would try to call out to Dallet or Ry or Kiran but only more blood would ebb. She could feel the salty tears stinging her eyes and bitter blood in her mouth. She dried her eyes and stopped biting her lip. No matter what happened to her, she fought to protect the people of Zaibach. People like Dallet…
The people of Zaibach looked up to the Ryuugekitai for strength. She would not let them down. She strapped on her uniform and clutched her sword with determination and made her way to her comrades in the Mess Hall.
A/N: Well, LONG chapter, huh? I hope it makes up for the long waiting period. You have no idea how busy I've been. Anyway, OMG- ode to the mush, huh? I know I've explained it before but I think I'll stress it some more. The pairings were rushed so here you have it! What should have been distributed throughout the story was packed in this one lil' chapter. *Roles eyes* I know my male readers out there are just choking and waiting it out until the battle. Hahahaha, what about you gals? How'd you like it? I have received a lot of commentaries on the whole Victoria scenario. You know… Dallet or Ry. I figured that I'd have this chap mainly focusing on that. Lots of stuff going on. I hope this met your expectations. I have the next chapter done and ready to go. Do you want it? … Let me know! Howsa bout a lil teaser, hmmm? Yes? Ok, here goes:
Her eyes flickered closed and her head fell limp to the side. How could he have been so foolish not to realize it? She had felt that way all along and it was obvious. He mourned her death and then with new found rage climbed back in his Alseides and slaughtered the Basrahm soldiers without mercy.
Who? Who is it?!?!?! I'm so glad that I know… I think I'd be driven mad if I didn't… ^___^ … Ja! ~CrimsonFire
Warning: Somehow over the Christmas break I've become one of those hopeless romance writers or something… heh, because the couples were so rushed it gets SAPPY in this chapter! Grit your teeth and wait it out because the next one's the total opposite, all blood and pain.
Disclaimer: Victoria heard a table fall over and a grinding noise and went to investigate. She opened the door and saw none other the Mrchezzysnickers who had just eaten 384 whole roles of cheese and was gnawing away at a rind. *Burp* Victoria backed away appalled. "Chez!" "What?" she asked lazily. "That was rude!" Victoria said tapping her fingers "You didn't save any for me!" … "Hehehe," Chez giggled when Victoria commented how many cheese crumbs she had all over her. She patted her stomach and picked up a napkin and wiped her face off. "AHHHH! THAT WAS NO NAPKIN… THAT WAS THE DEED TO ESCAFLOWNE…"
Yet again the deed has slipped through Victoria's fingers, leaving her with only a fan fiction about The Dragon Slayers of Zaibach.
To: Pablo/Cecil: No, I'm not renaming TGA!!! The 'AGAIN' is because 'To Gaea' would be a fic about when Hitomi made the first journey there, iie? Yes, I'm sure a formal dance held by royalty would have many other royalties abroad. However, I tried to stress that this was just a casual fiesta sort of thing for the Slayers and Destiny Army only to let them relax and have some fun before the huge battle. *Cough* (And because the couples were so rushed I needed a scene for romance, ya know?) Even if it were a 'ball' I don't think many royalty would come considering Zaibach is the 'sworn enemy of Gaea.' My apologies for the informalities. Not everyone will dance with everyone else. The reason I didn't let anyone vote on the person you dance with is because you'll dance with everyone, Mr. Neutral! When I held the pole it meant which person MAINLY.
Where we left off: With only one hour to go, the entire Vione was buzzing with activity … not a mind dwelt on the fight against Basrahm save for General Dilandau Albatou, who sat alone over maps and his wine.
(Ok, you know that sound where you suck air in through your teeth? … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … Hahahaha! I bet you just tried making that sound! ^_^;;;;; Ahem, my point is it starts off with Dilly doing that. Heh, heh …)
Chapter 28: The Endless Dream
Dilandau slouched on the floor of his room surrounded by many empty wine bottles. He rolled his eyes in the back of his head and picked up his dagger with the Zaibach insignia. He gripped the hilt and craftily threw it in such a way that it embedded itself into an empty bottle without shattering the fine glass.
He brought his head up to inspect the effect of the simple flick of a wrist. It hit right on the line through the middle. Dilandau staggered up and opened his wine cabinent. He had a high tolerance for alcohol and he was still alert and ready. Dilandau growled and cleared a path through the wine bottles and sat in a simple wooden chair. He flipped through many maps on faded parchment.
"Austuria, Basrahm, Chezario, Daedalus, Egzardia, Freid …"
Doinkork was driven mad by the dream that all the countries of Gaea would be united into one under his rule. What did his new Emperor fight for?
He gulped down another shot and pondered over his Slayers and Emperor. This man, Pablo… why would he order this, this dance? His soldiers did not need pleasantries and humor! They needed discipline and punishment. Such was the way of the warrior. Elements such as those were needed to mold a fighter's spirit.
In truth, what they needed was extra training on this day! Awoken two hours early, and no breaks what-so-ever. That is what they needed. If anything, their 'pleasantries' would he a hearty last meal and an hour extra sleep.
Dilandau retrieved his dagger and sighed, downing more of the potent liquid. His Slayers, what of them? He paced his way to the Training Gym and looked inside. The clank of swords varied thinly through the air. Dilandau browsed the contents of few soldiers who fought. The sixteen men who formed the original Ryuugekitai were not there; not a single one of them. The Destiny Army? No; of course not… the weak women would be fretting over their dresses and hair.
He froze in his spot, closing his eyes he wondered what would have been if the new-comers had never been on the Vione at all. The image was clear to him. The gym would be full of every man on the Vione. Day and night: training, training… yes, that was it.
"Mmmmmm …" he smiled; a first in a very long time.
He was snapped back to reality by a reluctant tap on the shoulder.
"L-Lord Dilandau? Are, you alright?"
Dilandau growled and drew his sword, embedding it in the young man's shoulder. He fell to the ground and tears of pain could be seen through the corners of his eyes.
"Pathetic…" Dilandau thought, taking the sword out of the wound "what was that boy's name anyway?"
It took him a moment to remember. His name was David. He was a new recruit picked up from a burning village on the western border of Egzardia. So many countless faces amongst the lost souls of Zaibach.
"Go to the Infirmary." he commanded and turned around, going back to his room and his wine.
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"Aaaannnnnnd a one, and two, and a three and four…"
Finally the men had the dances down pat. Everyone had showered and changed and the girls had calmed down enough to think. Ry pulled out his guitar and practiced some up-beat songs. As the hour approached the Emperor made his way to the Mess Hall where the dance was going to be held.
The gloomy and simple look of the Mess Hall had been taken out of the room along with many of the tables and chairs. Some of them still remained, but only the few set up for the party. There were about seven long tables aligned at the back of the room with a white tablecloth trimmed in scarlet over them. Pablo approved of the exotic and colorful entrées of snack foods and numerous choices of fine fruit juices imported from far off countries in the east to choose from. Along the edge, he was amused to see his special request for beverage had been added. Furry banana squeegy shakes for his peculiar soldiers to enjoy. He was sure the Destiny Army would find it much to their liking. He walked around and surveyed the paper streamers and lanterns. A half-hearted smile played on his lips. The Vione needed a little fun once and a while.
Before they knew it, it was time. The doors were opened and the soldiers, feeling foreign without their heavy uniforms and swords, took in an unfamiliar Mess Hall. Not only the Dragon Slayers and Destiny Army attended. Although the thought had never occurred to the Ryuugekitai, because many of the Zaibach soldiers were regular towns folk taken from burning villages, many knew how to play instruments. There was a small stage with about eleven players on it. Many of them were only young boys…
Some of the Ryuugekitai took seats and took a sip of something to drink or a nibble of something to eat as they waited on the arrival of the girls. Viole had practically chewed his nails off in anticipation. Miguel paced, Dallet seemed to be thinking about what to say, Gatti leaned against a wall calmly, and Ry was no where to be found.
The girls arrived stylishly five minutes late. It was hard to recognize them. Where were the roguish little soldier girls? Before them stood tranquil and mature women. All of their lives, all these men had done was fight and work. Many fumbled on how to act or what to do. They may be a black-belt in fighting but they were a white-belt in this category. Some of them walked straight up to a certain girl and gawked awkwardly.
Viole managed her name. "Shay."
"Hmmm?" she blinked up at him. Shay wore a simple white dress that went just below her knees with a light blue shawl draped over her shoulders.
He smiled charmingly. "What have you done with my Shay?" he asked and resisted the urge to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear.
Viole stepped back and his eyes bugged out. "Shay, what's wrong?!"
Shay's cheeks puffed out and her face grew red. She paused a moment and then burst out laughing. And for only the third time in his entire life, Viole laughed. They both laughed lightly and he felt his face grew warm at the sight of her.
Kenju wore a short red dress that brought out her reddish-brow hair and mysterious brown eyes with a hint of green in them. She clutched her thin silver necklace and walked over to the table nearest the wall Gatti was still leaning on. He fidgeted and side-glanced over at her until he got the nerve to walk over to her. He looked down and grunted to acknowledge her. She got a devilish twinkle in her eye and as soon as he looked up her wrist cunningly flicked a dagger in front of her face. His eyes bulged and he stumbled backwards. She smiled and cut off a slice of cheese. He gained back his cool composure although he no longer felt tense. His face melted into a smile.
He ignored his pride and mumbled, "You- you look very… pretty."
She looked at him knowingly. "Not bad yourself."
Kit was nothing short of radiant. She had her dark brown hair pulled up in a ponytail and in the light you could see the golden highlights. She wore a dark blue dress with spaghetti straps that brought out the color of her hazel eyes. She smiled warmly when she saw none other than Miguel Lavalier, the always ever so proud and never surprised soldier, fumble toward her.
"You look wonderful" he said and pulled out a brilliant red rose and gave it to her.
Chesta got up from the table and jogged up to Kiran. She was wearing an Elven looking green dress from Godashim that went with her emerald eyes and dirty blond hair. He turned beat red when he saw her and went back to his seat. Kiran felt hurt and confused. Did she look that bad? She went to Dallet, Chesta's best friend, and asked. He looked at her confused.
"All of you look very beautiful… go and ask Chesta why he did that. He always has good reasoning for anything he does." he smiled and shoved her lightly in Chesta's direction. "Go on… If I know Chesta, he's just being shy."
She began walking toward Chesta's table when she saw Dallet still standing in the same place. She looked back at the entrance and saw Victoria standing alone in a dazzling silver dress and scanning the room with her sharp golden eyes.
"Oh go on, Dallet… it's now or never." she whispered and continued to Chesta.
Dallet was right. Kiran sat down at Chesta's table and he went all red again and stuttered.
Dallet drew in a breath and forced his feet to move toward Victoria. It's what he wanted to do, so he couldn't be scared.
"Don't say or do anything stupid, go for charming" he urged himself.
He opened his eyes and took in every detail. He never wanted to forget how she looked that night. He gazed down at the pale complexion framing her face that had a hint of crimson to its hue and tilted her chin up to meet his gaze. He traced the outline of her jaw fondly before he realized what he was doing. He dropped his hand immediately.
"I'm sorry" he said hurriedly. "You look stunning."
"Thank you…" she whispered and blinked.
Before now she had not thought of Dallet as handsome. He was good looking, sure, but now all she could think is that he was rugged and brawny. Her face felt heated. He wore a plain white T-shirt with black pants. Nothing fancy, but… she continued to stare at him when he grabbed her arm and pulled her toward the middle of the room.
"Dance with me."
A simple request? Demand? No. It was a statement. She couldn't have stopped herself from dancing with him if she wanted. She closed her eyes and thought of his purple tinted brown eyes. So deep and… she knew now that all she wanted to do then was stay in that moment forever, with Dallet. How long they were dancing she didn't know. She had one arm around his neck and the other on his shoulder. He placed his around her waist and for what seemed an eternity they just moved around in circles, holding each other. It was hypnotic. She was in a trance.
"This must be love." she thought she heard Dallet whisper. "Or else I've died and an angle is embracing me before I perish."
She opened her eyes and took in her surroundings. Viole was running after Shay who was running after Kiran, claiming she had stolen her cheese. She looked to another side of the room and was surprised to see Willow and Folken in the same trance she and Dallet were lost in.
It was custom that Emperor Pablo was to dance with every girl and he was dancing with Kit by now. He made a comment about the dress she was wearing and she smiled and thanked him. Kit's partner, Miguel, was currently dancing with Madina, in a nearby corner. They had never seen Madina in a dress before. After all, she was the mechanic…
Victoria could see Miguel's surprised look and him saying something to her that caused him to blush and babble. She closed her eyes again and listened to Dallet's steady and warm heartbeat.
Dilandau stealthily, considering his drunken state, crawled around dark corners and under tables until he reached the drinks and punches. He took out bottle after bottle of his wine and other alcoholic beverages and poured them in every drink, giggling. His bliss ended when he continued pouring them into the furry banana squeegy shakes and all they did was make a gurgling noise and then suck it in like a sponge.
The song changed from the slow and comforting melody to a horrible, dramatic song expected to be in a horror film. It was like lightning in a windy storm. Dallet and Victoria's heads snapped up to locate the source. On the stage was Captain Ry, raking his fingers over the cords. Once he had gotten everyone's attention, he began an up beat tune that seemed to wake everyone up. Dallet blinked and wondered how long he had danced like that. He looked down and smiled at her. It was like a fairytale, he thought.
"I'm sorry to intercept" Pablo cut in on Dallet "Do you mind if I dance with Victoria for a bit?"
"Uh, no… not at all." Dallet said. "I'll just go get a drink."
Ciari, who had joined the little chase of Shay's, ran over Dallet on his way to the other side of the room. She wiggled her eyebrows and dusted herself off.
"Oh, it's you!" she said grinning evilly "I thought Victoria had snatched you up for the entire evening!"
She grabbed him and drug him to dance with her. The song was abrupt. Pablo moved on to dance with Kenju and Dallet moved to go back to Victoria. Ciari pulled him back.
"You were in my way when I was running, thus you tripped me and didn't even apologize. Then you dance with me for a song and don't get me something to drink?" she said.
Dallet blinked. "Ok, I'll get you some punch."
When he turned his back Ciari made a signal to Ry, motioning him down off the stage. He put his guitar down and weaved through the crowd. He hadn't even caught a glimpse of Victoria all evening. The crowd was thick and people kept moving… he had been busy playing his guitar, too.
He couldn't find her like this he thought, and by the time I do Dallet will be dancing with her… I just know it! He looked to Ciari who pointed to a patch of people to the left in the back. He caught a glimpse of lavender hair through the crowd. This is it, he thought. My moment…
Victoria nodded and said good bye to some girl he didn't know with blond hair and turned around to look at him. It was all in slow motion to Ry. He couldn't breathe or think. Before even exchanging greetings, Ry took her by the waist and twirled her.
With all of the events occurring that night she had almost forgotten about Ry. Him not being there when the dance began didn't help her remember either. She stared into those emerald eyes, framed with rich black hair and he back at her, golden framed by lavender. His hold on her was strong and reassuring.
"May I have this dance?" he asked.
She smiled warmly. "Yes."
It was a quick song with plenty of beat and rhythm.
"You're a great dancer." she said.
"You too," he answered back, "Are you thirsty? Let's get a drink…"
He led her through the crowd and to the tables. Ry chose a red colored punch and Victoria took delight in the furry banana squeegy shakes. Both were good and had a hint of something they couldn't identify. Dilandau laughed incessantly as the two downed more of his spiked drinks.
After a few more drinks they shared another dance. Ry looked around the room and saw that Pablo customarily had a dance with each female.
"You know, it is kind of rude to only dance with one person" he said sadly.
"You're right… I'll catch up with you later?"
Ry smiled, "Save the last dance for me."
Ry made conversation with Madina and the two of them danced while Victoria politely danced with Gatti.
"How are you enjoying the party?" she asked.
He smiled and waved at Kenju. "It's better then I thought it would be."
She laughed and when the dance was over he went back to Kenju and Victoria rotated to dance with Viole. She didn't even need to ask how he was enjoying it.
"This is a great party." he said "I've already have several dances with Shay."
Victoria looked at him surprised. "Really? That's pretty amazing… I figured she'd be glued to the table full of cheese or be running around screaming she about her squirrel rations…"
Viole looked deep in thought. "That's the thing about her." he said watching her jumping up and down around a random person yelling about mold or something or other. "She's so full of life and so different."
She thought he was going to continue on about her when he gave her a serious look.
"What about YOU?" he inquired.
"What do you mean?" she asked on guard.
He gave a disapproving look. "Isn't it obvious? You have to make a choice."
The song ended and he walked off before she could say anything. She stood still in shock. What did he mean?
Victoria decided to take a break off dancing. She stopped and talked with a few people on her way to the refreshments.
"Folken! Willow!" she greeted them happily.
They smiled. "It's so nice to see you two here!" Victoria said.
"Yes," Willow answered with a smile "Folken and I are a couple now."
"What do you mean?" Victoria looked at them quizzically and Willow showed Victoria a beautiful golden ring with a diamond on it.
"Oh my gosh!" she exclaimed and hugged them "I'm so happy for you!"
It was an amazing thought. She looked up at Folken and saw him blushing. What a sight! She understood now. They'd spent so much time together and no one ever knew where the two of them were. It hit her like a mallet when she thought of their week long disappearance.
Willow looked down sadly. "We'll be leaving Zaibach after the battle tomorrow." she said. "We're the only remaining living royalty of Fanelia now… together we will gather back Fanelia's people and rebuild her. Then we'll rule with Escaflowne as our guardian."
It was an amazing story and she wished them happiness and luck. It was not Fanelia or Escaflowne that she hated. It was Van, the arrogant and murderous boy who would have destroyed Zaibach's future.
"Hey!" Ry said walking up to her, "I'm sorry for taking so long. I had to dance with a few friends and play a few songs."
She brightened. "That's ok. Do you want to dance?"
"Yes." he answered.
Victoria looked around the room at all of the couples dancing. Viole and Shay. Willow and Folken. Kiran and Chesta. Kenju and Gatti. Kit and Miguel.
They all looked so happy. Now that she thought of it… how long had they been on the Vione? It seemed like they had always been there. They all were like a big family. It was always these same pairs sitting at the Mess Hall, sparring, and talking…
Pablo was currently dancing with Madina. Ciari nodded approvingly at her work while she chatted and danced with Dallet. Victoria blinked and noticed that the whole time they'd been on the Vione that Ciari was always whispering something about someone to someone else.
"Doesn't Gatti look nice today, Kenju?" "I think Viole's looking at you, Shay!" *Nudge, nudge* "Kirany-schnizzles! Stop staring at Chesta and get back to sparring." She'd laugh and make it out to be a joke but…
The song ended and everyone clapped. Pablo nodded to Madina and decided to dance with Kit again. One of the players stood in the front and announced it was the final song. Miguel asked Madina to dance with him. The band struck up the note and Ciari looked across the room disapprovingly at Victoria and Ry smiling at each other as they danced.
"We've got to work quickly." she whispered and grabbed Dallet and ran through the crowd. Dallet and Ciari pretended to dance and they came closer to Ry and Victoria. Ciari did a sort of twirl and purposefully caught her foot under Ry's and fell flat on the ground.
"Are you cross-eyed?!" she demanded.
"Wha?" he blinked.
Ciari grabbed him by the collar and pointed at her ankle. "It's probably broken!"
Dallet slipped in between them and took Victoria to a different part on the dance floor. They began to dance. Victoria opened her mouth to comment on Ciari's commotion on Ry when Dallet quieted her.
"Shhh… don't say anything at all," he said and tightened his grip on her.
The song was slow and almost sad. When it was done the audience exploded in applause. People began talking and saying farewells. Tomorrow they had the battle of their lives on their hands and they needed rest. Dallet had his eyes closed and continued dancing in circles even thought the song was over.
"Dallet." she whispered.
"Hmmm?" he answered.
She let go of him and he opened his eyes, blushing.
"The song's over. Thank you. I had a wonderful time."
He smiled. "I did also." He gave her a quick hug. "I'll see you tomorrow."
She waved as he left.
"Hey," Ry frowned and walked over to her. "I was looking forward to the last dance with you…"
She opened her mouth to apologize when he continued talking.
"That's why I can't believe I was clumsy enough to trip Ciari. Heh, I didn't even realize she was there… anyway though. Did you have a good time?"
"Yes," she smiled "I did. You were really great up there."
He laughed. "No, it was nothing… come on, I'm sure you're tired… I'll walk you to your room."
He offered his arm and she took it. They walked down the Vione halls and recalled events that evening. They reached her room and he paused before leaning down and kissing her.
"Good night. See you tomorrow."
She felt dizzy and tired so she entered her room and flopped down on her bed and closed her eyes.
She saw Dallet.
She saw Ry.
"Isn't it obvious?" a voice echoed in the back of her mind "You have to make a choice."
She gasped and shot up in her bed. Pale gray light filtered in through her balcony. She swung her legs over the side and opened a window. She walked to her bathroom and splashed water onto her face. She stared down at her pale white hands and peered at the mirror. She closed her eyes and saw that innocent pale girl who stared back at her from the glass every morning mercilessly slaughtering men who probably had wives and children. She saw her own hands covered in blood.
Was this the end? Maybe her skin would be caked with her own blood that day and she would try to call out to Dallet or Ry or Kiran but only more blood would ebb. She could feel the salty tears stinging her eyes and bitter blood in her mouth. She dried her eyes and stopped biting her lip. No matter what happened to her, she fought to protect the people of Zaibach. People like Dallet…
The people of Zaibach looked up to the Ryuugekitai for strength. She would not let them down. She strapped on her uniform and clutched her sword with determination and made her way to her comrades in the Mess Hall.
A/N: Well, LONG chapter, huh? I hope it makes up for the long waiting period. You have no idea how busy I've been. Anyway, OMG- ode to the mush, huh? I know I've explained it before but I think I'll stress it some more. The pairings were rushed so here you have it! What should have been distributed throughout the story was packed in this one lil' chapter. *Roles eyes* I know my male readers out there are just choking and waiting it out until the battle. Hahahaha, what about you gals? How'd you like it? I have received a lot of commentaries on the whole Victoria scenario. You know… Dallet or Ry. I figured that I'd have this chap mainly focusing on that. Lots of stuff going on. I hope this met your expectations. I have the next chapter done and ready to go. Do you want it? … Let me know! Howsa bout a lil teaser, hmmm? Yes? Ok, here goes:
Her eyes flickered closed and her head fell limp to the side. How could he have been so foolish not to realize it? She had felt that way all along and it was obvious. He mourned her death and then with new found rage climbed back in his Alseides and slaughtered the Basrahm soldiers without mercy.
Who? Who is it?!?!?! I'm so glad that I know… I think I'd be driven mad if I didn't… ^___^ … Ja! ~CrimsonFire