Disclaimer: I don't own Escaflowne, etc. etc. etc.
A/N ok then, thanks for the reviews, they were awesome. Hopefully, you are still reading and enjoying what I am writing. Right, if you're going to flame me, please let me know why. Thank you, now read and enjoy!
An unidentifiable look flashed through Yamano's eyes, but she recovered quickly. "Rydia. How about it?" Her smile was forced though, and the girl felt a wave of sadness at the other's deep pain.
Before the others could say anything, the girl quickly agreed. "Rydia is a fine name. It will suit me well."
"Rydia, Rydia." Murmured Shigeru. "It sounds familiar, where did you get it from?"
"What do you mean where did I get it from?!" Yamano hissed. "It's a name from our homeland in Mysidia. I can't believe you!" She whirled around to face the gi. Rydia. The deep sadness was once again hidden. "Rydia is the name of one of Mysidia's heroes and founders. She was a truly talented person, one of the few women, past and present, able to control a Guymelef, see the past, present, and future, a wielder of magic and had the unique ability to get dragons to listen to her. My family has a portrait of her, and you look a lot like her."
"I remember now." Shigeru snapped back. "Not that you can blame me for forgetting, I haven't been home for ages. I was gone before you were even born. You're right though, there is a striking resemblance, but you forgot one tiny little detail. Like you," He turned to Rydia as well. "She suffered from memory loss. It never returned to her, but I'm sure you'll get yours!" He added quickly at the alarm in her eyes.
"I would be honored to have her name until mine returns." With an enchanting smile, she faced Satoshi and glared at him challengingly. "Unless of course you have any objections to this?"
Alarmed he looked to his two comrades and saw nothing but annoyance, at him, there. "No, no objections whatsoever. Who am I to object? I'm nothing but a figurehead, a figurehead who was supposed to be leading this stupid patrol, but no, no, not I. Of course not." Trailing off, he blushed profusely. Swallowing audibly, he tried to regain some lost shred of dignity. "I don't mind at all, just don't get any ideas about flying Guymelefs. Not going to happen."
"WHY NOT?!" Rydia screeched angrily, not caring as everyone covered their ears. "You chauvinistic pig!! I can't believe you guys. Why is it always the guy who gets to do anything cool? Why can't a woman fight for once?!"
Yamano stopped her before she could say anything else. Calmly, with a nasty glint in her eyes, she said, "Oh, but a woman can fight. Thanks to Naria and Eriya, more females are trying, successfully I might add, to get into the army. Most, though, are taken to remote areas where there are little chances of anything happening. Like me for example. I can fight better than most advanced fighters, except for those in this troop, but for a long time I was stationed in places known for their little activity."
"Even though the two did fight for Zaibach, they started a revolution in the way females thought." Grinning, Shigeru remembered some of the councils he had sat in on and the fierce arguments that were presented there. "If Zaibach let females fight, then why in the Heavens couldn't anyone else." That had been the most debated argument. Both sides had used it, those against females had said that was exactly why they couldn't let females fight. That was the reason Zaibach had lost. This of course had sparked repercussions, people like Allen of Asturia had joined the fray. Offended by it, they had asked if that meant that Zaibach would be in charge at this moment. It had been quite funny to watch the fools squirm.
"It was quite funny to listen to, actually. Eventually though, it was that argument that let females enlist in the army. However, very few get any actual training in the use of Guymelefs. Even I don't know how to use a Guymelef very well." With a sigh, Yamano turned away, this was not her fight, she wouldn't be here for too long anyway. Transfers were coming, and she would be leaving, so it didn't matter too much what she thought. She would get Rydia involved, and, before she left, the girl would be a fierce advocate for the female's cause.
"That's right! You won't be the exception either, not if I have my way." Satoshi had finally gotten control of his blazing face, and was now indignant at the idea of a female flying a Guymelef. "In my opinion, all females are good for is pampering their husband and overseeing the cleaning of the home."
"I wouldn't let Millerna or Eryies hear you talking like that, Satoshi." Shigeru snapped. Those two were the scariest people he had ever met. Tempers like no other, they were known for ruining a man's life for saying things like that. Even Van and Chid were scared of their tempers. Everyone treaded carefully around the two, Satoshi was no exception. "They would have your hide. One more thing, when we get back to base camp, you're being transferred and I will be called Captain once again." There was a note of finality to his voice that ended the conversation for that night.
"Sirs?" Yamano was once again the professional medic. "If I may make a suggestion." Receiving nods in answer, she continued. "It is my opinion that Rydia is in no condition to continue on tonight, seeing as how she has probably suffered psychologically, and we should just camp here tonight. Also, I have seen signs of the Gateny Tribe, and we should stay here and keep an eye on them to make sure they don't do anything foolish."
Looking to Shigeru for an answer, but receiving none, Satoshi finally understood his place in this battalion. He was little more than a figurehead, and depending on Shigeru's report, he would either remain one, or become a leader of a troop. Hopefully, if Millerna and Eryies didn't get wind of this conversation, he would rise to something above the common grunt. "We will stay here for the night. Dante, take two men with you and scout around the swamp. Kita, take two and scout around the lake we passed earlier. Dante, don't take horses, Kita take them, but leave them a little ways away so as not to attract attention to yourselves. GO!" He glanced at Shigeru for approval.
Nodding, Shigeru murmured, just loud enough for Satoshi to hear, "Good thinking, now, about the camp."
A slight flush was the only indication that Satoshi had heard. Without missing a beat, he rapidly deployed orders for setting up the camp.
Later that night, after the patrols had reported in, the watch set up, and everyone was just lounging around, Rydia and Shigeru sat apart from the rest, talking. No one bothered them, everybody else had their worries to attend to. Would they be transferred? Where would they go? The troop had been together for so long, it was almost inevitable most, if not all, would be leaving the next day. Satoshi was the only one not worried, he was still caught up in the days success. Yamano was concerned because she had a feeling that she would be leaving to a "safer" place.
"You really have no idea who you are? No clue to your past?" Shigeru asked. They had been at this for about ten minutes now, and still nothing. Perhaps it was time for a different tactic, one that had been used on the Rydia of old. The only drawback was the flashes of memories had been painful, horrible and had caused a lot of distress to all involved. Smiling grimly, he put up a psychic wall around the two of them.
Rydia looked up from the ground when Shigeru became distant. "What are. Ohhhhh." Her eyes widened in recognition and surprise. "A psychic barr.. no, a wall. I can see it!" It was true, she could see it. A wall of transparent colors, like heat waves. "You're a powerful psychic aren't you?"
A slight start and Shigeru once again focused on Rydia, the grim smile remained. "You could say that. But no one knows but me, and now you. I'd appreciate it if you didn't tell anyone, it gives me an advantage over my enemies." The smile disappeared. "For you to be able to see the wall means you are powerful as well. You never answered the question."
Paling, she fought the urge to flee. "I remember nothing." She turned thoughtful. "I do know, however, I wasn't born here." At the look in his eyes she quickly added, "It's just a feeling I have."
"What do you mean, here?"
"Here. On this land and the lands surrounding it, I'm no native." She gestured to the ground, and then all around. "I do not know the exact location, just it's far way from here."
"Perhaps you are of the forest people, the Mya. Or from the lands around there." He snorted. "In that case, you could be from anywhere. Enough of this!" His voice and countenance turned hard. Ignoring her startled squeak, he asked. "Why do you see the deaths of people?"
Immediately her face went white, her breathing became ragged and then her eyes unfocused and her face returned to its normal color. "Because there is so much death to be seen, so much violence surrounds them." Pain filled her voice, and so great was her distress that Shigeru felt it too.
Ignoring everything, he continued. "What violence?" Looking into her eyes he noticed a blue flame reflected there, but there was no fire of that color anywhere near them.
"The violence that comes from hate, anger. Violence that is spawned by war, war that leaves homeless, orphans, starved and dead in its wake."
"What war?" He jumped on the key word.
"The invisible giants. Burning, everything's burning!" Her voice started to rise. "Have to hide, have to run! Escaflowne, to your right! Watch out! Get out of the way! NO!!" She shrieked, then was quiet. Rocking back and forth, shivering.
Shigeru shook his head slightly, warning the others not to come near. He had a feeling she wasn't through yet and it would be best not to disturb her.
"Intensified Luck Soldiers. Can't come near, DON'T come near." Her voice was an intense whisper. "Focus everything. No distractions, concentrate! Stop him, stop fighting! Blood, too much blood. All is lost, or will be." She blinked, her eyes beginning to clear.
"What blood?" His voice was urgent, her trance was breaking and he needed more information. Had she participated in the Zaibach War?"
"Frieds, Austerias, Fanelias. No one is spared, all are affected." Her voice was no longer intense, just distant. Then, with a shake of her head, she focused completely. "Make it go away! Please, someone, too much pain! LEAVE ME ALONE!!!" Tears were cascading down her face, unheeded. She began to rock, trying to make her pain go away.
"I'm sorry." Grimacing at the amount of pain she was radiating, he moved behind her, pinched a nerve and sighed as she blacked out. Dissipating the wall, he called for Yamano to take care of her. Ignoring Yamano's questions, he moved to the fire and prepared himself for sleep. Long after everyone believed him to be sleeping, he lay awake, pondering all that had passed between him and Rydia.
Wiping all emotion from her face, Serori glanced at Raven and 'pathed her amusement. Idiots. Like they could possibly do anything to us, much less detain us. Ugh, I can't believe you are actually willing to go around like a simple land-dragon. How demeaning. She wrinkled her nose in disgust. Raven had slid her wings and two front feet inside her body, a talent only her and 13s dragon had. Being a pure-blood ancient had its advantages from time to time.
Glancing at Serori sideways, Raven snorted. It's really not that demeaning. All it is is just another advantage I have over others. Just one more talent. Hmm, she glanced at the approaching patrol. I suppose we need to deal with them then? They are getting closer.
True to her word they had just crested the last hill separating them from the dragon and her rider. Right you are. So, should we take them out or give them a good scare? A cruel grin slid across Serori's face. Both would be incredibly entertaining. Her cold gaze watched them as they hurried towards her. Quickly! A decision!
Let's give Fanelia a good scare! Something to put in their reports. A little revenge for my dead cousins. With a loud roar, Raven stretched to her full length and glared angrily at the troop. Ready when you are.
"Fanelia, hmm. This should prove interesting. On my mark." She firmly grabbed her sword and slid it out of its sheath slightly. "Make sure you leave at least three of them alive. NOW!" Her fierce battle cry intermingled with Ravens and her sword came out of the sheath fully as they rushed them.
The troop had no time to prepare, in a few, brief seconds the two were attacking them like demons. Everywhere they looked one was always there, stabbing, biting, killing. With the fierceness of devils they killed mercilessly, not caring who was felled by their fury. Then, they were leaving, running from the site of carnage, and all was quiet. With a mighty jump the devil in human form was on the demon-dragons back and soon both disappeared from sight, leaving only three standing in their wake.
All three were left with injuries varying in degrees of seriousness, though none were life-threatening at the moment. The rest were either dead or dying. They looked at each other, "What do we do now? Captain's dead, so I guess you're in charge, Malken."
Malken, a tall, 26-year old female from a wolf-clan just grunted. Her attention was focused on the carnage surrounding them. "Map." She held out her hand for the map. "We're in the Blackthorn Peak, correct?" A stab wound in her leg and a cut to her shoulder were the only injuries she suffered from.
"Actually, I'd say we're closer to Dragon Lake. 2 kilometers south, exactly." A short, inconspicuous man croaked out. He was the most seriously injured of the three. A deep gash on his thigh, a severe bite on his shoulder, a cut right below his knee, that, if the Dragons tail had been just a little closer, it would've completely cut it off, and a wound to his stomach that was bleeding badly. Currently, he was stitching up his leg, ignoring the bloody sight that awaited his inspection. "There are cons to being a medic, y'know."
With a short laugh, Malken turned her back on the site. "I do not doubt you in any, Drill. I congratulate you on your perseverance in such, ah, troubled times."
"You put it so delicately, Malken." The third person was much more eye-catching. Decked out in a long, black cloak, it was impossible to tell whether this person was male or female; the troop had given up guessing long ago. Noticing Drills inquiring gaze, the mage laughed. "I suffer from no injuries that need attending to. Here, let me help with your stomach."
"Vralen, you really don't." Drill cut himself off with a sigh as Vralen plopped down beside him. Even while sitting, Vralen easily towered over Malken, which was no easy seeing as how Malken was taller than the average male. Shaking his head, Drill turned his attention back to his leg.
"If you don't mind me asking," Squatting besides the two, Malken reached for some bandages. "How do you intend to help the stomach wound when you can't reach it while he's hunched over like that?" With a few deft twists, her wounds were taken care of.
"Magic." Was the short answer.
"Take it easy, Vralen." Holding her hands up in surrender, Malken started to clean Drills shoulder. "You're still living in the pre-war era, it's post-war now, buddy." She laughed softly.
"Old habits die hard, I'm afraid." Came the sheepish reply. Hands beginning to glow, Vralen placed them on Drills back and the glow became more intense. "All the fear, the hatred, the misconceptions. You have no idea how horrible it was for magic-users like me, even now, in this 'enlightened age' there is much prejudice."
"Actually, careful now, I'm about to sit up," Drill slowly straightened his back. "You may not believe us, but we do have an idea. We're," He pointed to himself and Malken. "Magic-users as well. Nothing fancy and not very powerful either. Just a miniscule amount of control. Here, watch." Grunting painfully, he extended his arms outward, palms facing each other. Closing his eyes for a moment, he smirked in satisfactions as a small ball of water appeared in-between his palms.
Vralen watched in surprise as the water began to move and change shape. Astonishment didn't come close to what the mage was feeling. The aura of Malken and Drill was not the aura of magic-users, their aura was strange, but with no hint of magic. Interesting.
Grinning at Vralens reaction, Malken turned her attention back to the numerous corpses that she had the pleasure of dealing with. She knew what Drill would do, the water would shape itself into a water-dragon, a leviathan, then freeze. That was the easiest thing in the world to do; not surprisingly Drill had lied about the extent of their powers. Whatever, she had bigger things to worry about than Drills, "Parlor tricks."
"I beg your pardon!" Drill looked up, mock offense clouding his face. "These beautiful creations are far from parlor tricks. You're just jealous. That's all. Oh, and why you're up, 'Captain', please check on whose dead and whose still managing to stay alive." He turned back to the water that was now beginning to freeze, satisfied with how much emotion colored Vralen's aura. "Aaaand, VIOLA! All is finished. Here, keep it." He handed the leviathan over to Vralen with a flourish. "Oh, be careful, it may or may not melt."
"Thanks." Vralen said sarcastically. "What a wonderful present that may or may not disappear in a matter of minutes. I'm honored, really, truly, honored. Thank you, really, I just don't know how to express my satisfaction for this. What is there to say to the person who created a gift of this caliber and just gives it up so, so selflessly. I'm tongue- tied, really."
"You don't have to sound so sarcastic. Jeez, here I am, trying my hardest to make this beautiful ice sculpture." Muttering in fake anger, he got quieter and quieter until he was incoherent. "Oh, Malken, how's the body-count coming?"
"Well, considering that this is supposed to be the medics job it's going just fine." Yelling back at him, Malken was kicking various bodies around, making sure that no one was hiding and had somehow escaped death, so far it was proving fruitless. "At the moment it seems like we're the only ones alive."
"And I was so looking forward to doing the body-count to. But, seeing as how I'm too injured to move and everything, I just can't." Pretending to try and move, Drill moaned loudly for the benefit of everyone present. "Sorry. Seems like it's impossible." He smiled mournfully, then stifled a laugh at the look shot him by Malken. "If looks could kill."
"You'd be rotting in you're grave, little man. If only." Sighing dramatically, Malken kept on kicking.
"If you're as injured as you say you are," Vralen murmured. "We should probably just leave you here for the scavengers. You'd only just slow us down."
"Too true!" Malken shouted back at them. "'Cause I am NOT walking all the way back to HQ." She had disappeared from sight, seeing if there were any animals left that would carry them.
"I refuse to walk, I won't, I CAN'T!" Laughing softly, Drill relaxed on the ground, looking at the clouds. "That one," He pointed for Vralens sake. "Looks like a dragon, that one's a Guymelef, a floating fortress. OOH! That one looks just like Mal. ken. A very ticked off Malken?" He tried to look innocent.
"What are you doing?!" She hissed slowly, punctuating each word with a kick to Drills side. "There's work that even a pea-brained, ignorant pig- dog like you could be doing. You lazy, good for nothing IDIOT! You, my good friend, are walking!" Whirling around, she walked back to where she had left the two horses. "Here Vralen, this one's yours." She handed the reigns to Vralen, then mounted the other horse. After Vralen was on his horse she took off; Vralen right behind her.
"HEY!! WAIT FOR ME!!! THIS IS NOT COOL!" Realizing their intent a second too late, Drill was left to follow, hoping that they would stop at nightfall for camp. Gritting his teeth resolutely, Drill got to his feet and started to hop after them. "GUUUUUUUUUUYS!!!!!!!"
"Wow, I haven't had this much of a rush since the Hitomi incident." An evil grin lighting upon Serori's face as she thought about what they had just done.
"I'm glad you enjoyed it." Growled her companion. Raven was not very happy about the form she had had to use. "I found it quite demeaning." She all but spat out. "How can land-dragons possibly live like this? No wings to fly with, only two legs." Trailing off at the contemplative look on Serori's face, Raven felt a familiar tug in her mind.
Mulling over what had just been said, Serori didn't notice Raven trailing off. "They are born like that, they know nothing else, so, how can they miss it?" Realizing that Raven wasn't listening, she gave her a nasty glare. "RAVEN! Hellooo, anybody there?" Sweetness oozed from her voice.
"Of course I'm here, stupid HUMAN! Where else would I be?" Purposely ignoring what Serori had really meant, she dealt the Dragoon an insult. "Obviously your HUMAN blood has made you stupider than anyone thought possible." Maybe that was going a little too far. Shoot.
It was well-known throughout the Dragoon race that 13's favorite assassin had unknown blood. Those that hated her liked to speculate, especially when she was around, that she was not a pure-blood. A favorite comment they liked to use to anger her was that it was human blood that contaminated her otherwise "pureness". Felcor especially loved to taunt her about it. If only they knew the truth.
"You dare," She paused, trying to get her anger under control. It failed. "How dare you?! You, especially you, should understand, should know the truth. What now? Are you now my enemy, you will not enjoy it if you are." Her words were low, intense and hard. How dare her closest, no not friend, she didn't have friends, her closest comrade say something like that?! She had trusted the dragon, and look where that trust had gotten her.
"Shut up." Raven snapped. She wasn't in the mood for Serori's tirade at the moment. "You know full well I didn't mean it so get off your high-horse." Voice calming slightly, she glared daggers at Serori. She wasn't in the mood for this.
"Sorry." Serori grunted, the fire in her eyes receding, slightly. "You should have heard Felcor though. The whole time, a mental barrage of insults. It was getting annoying."
With a slight hiss, Raven returned to her normal form. "I completely understand. You should hear what they say about me and letting you befriend me. It gets pretty vicious." She felt the tug on her mind again. "Crap. Seventh wishes to talk with us on our, uh, progress."
"Really." A vicious smile played on Serori's lips. "Well then, we mustn't disappoint." She hopped onto Raven's back. "Shall we?"
"Why not, nothing better to do." Raven grinned cruelly. "Besides, flying will help me forget having to act like a, a, a land-dragon!" She shuddered visibly. "I can't stand it." Receiving no comment from her companion but a mocking laugh, she suddenly launched herself into the air, enjoying the annoyed growl she received for the action.
Grinning like an idiot, Serori debated whether to yell at the dragon or just relax and enjoy the flight. She settled on relaxing, besides she loved flying, whether it was with Raven or by herself it didn't matter. Flying was a great way to relax and it allowed her to put her problems in perspective. "Dumb dragon. I could've fallen off and killed myself." At least she hadn't yelled.
"That was the point, too bad it didn't work." Raven growled. Serori wasn't really mad, anyone who knew her knew she loved to fly, it was what relaxed her. It worked for Raven as well. All too soon, for the both of them, the flight ended. It had given them a chance to square away many of their problems. Unfortunately, this meeting would only give them more problems to worry about. With a light thud, Raven landed in the place where Seventh had requested they meet.
They were in one of many caves that formed a virtual labyrinth beneath the Adomii range. It was a little too close to Freid for comfort, but that was why they were meeting here. This specific area of caves were called the Flaming Caves, for two reasons. The crystals that were strewn on all the walls were lit by the glow of lava and looked as if on fire. Also, instead of rivers of water, there were rivers of magma and here, they were especially close and the caves felt like a furnace. Dragons were the only species who felt at home in this environment.
"Goddess! How could you possibly live here?!" Serori snapped, after waiting for 15 minutes for Seventh to show. "It's hot!"
"Yes, well, dragons have thicker skins than humans and dragoons." Raven said smugly. "Therefore it is only natural for us to be able live in such environments. Just one more way that dragons are superior."
Before Serori could reply, a smooth, silky voice spoke up behind them. "When you are quite finished, comrades?"
Both of them whirled around and glared at the newcomer. "Seventh, so kind of you to join us; and so like you to choose a place like this." Serori hissed. "You kept us waiting. What was so urgent that you could be late for? Who's he?" Serori jerked her head at the dragon squatting in the doorway.
"That would be my escort." Seventh chuckled. "It wouldn't look right if I were to come using a Guymelef. Be stopped by every good soldier I came across. Didn't want to deal with that right now." Like all the other members of the Shadow Council, Seventh was shrouded in shadow, no distinguishing features were discernible. "This is a native of these caves. May I introduce you to my friend, fire-dragon Flare."
"It is not often one meets a fire-dragon, let al one a native from the Adom Labyrinth 'Tis a pleasure." Raven respectfully bowed her head. "I am the Ancient Dragon Ravenwing Fatale." For a brief moment she seemed to fill the room, her eyes lit by a black fire, then, it was gone. "This is my companion, the Dragon-friend Serori Celtai."
Flare kneeled for a moment, then stood, still lounging in the doorway. "It's an honor to be in and Ancient's presence, let alone yours. I know who both of you are. News of your exploits have reached even our ears, deep underneath Freid. If ever you are in need of our assistance, please, let us know."
"On the behalf or the Celta Clan, and Shadow Council member 13, a Dragoon, I thank you for your offer." Serorir stood beside Raven and gave a half bow. Straightening, she ignored Seventh's amusement. Opening her mouth, she was cut off by Seventh again.
"If we are done with all the pleasantries, I would like to get down to business." Seventh pushed himself off the wall and walked over to Serori and Raven. "A word of caution Raven, if I were you I would not reveal myself again. Now, tell me about your progress. Is all going well?"
A cold smile lit Serori's face. "Everything is proceeding smoothly and every deadline is being met. No real delays. Nothing is tying Hitomi to the Mystic Moon, she is now in Gaea with no memories of her past and is with a troop that will be going back to the main city soon. After we're through here, we will go to a meeting with our contact to retrieve the stone. What's going on with the Council?"
"The cowards are still reluctant." Contempt laced his voice. "You should hear some of their arguments. 'The number of dragon-kills is steadily declining.'" His voice was a perfect imitation of Felcor's. "It gets really annoying, their arguments are weak and they know it. They're just afraid to fight." He paused, "If we could get Hitomi to kill a dragon, or frame her so it looks like it, then it would be a whole different story."
Serori grinned. "That just might work. The dragon wouldn't even have to die. If we could make it look like she was about to kill one, then get the right Council Member to talk about it, they'd be more than willing to fight. They'd have to be. The tribes would demand it. An intentional death of a dragon is not taken lightly."
"It couldn't be 13, the more conservative Members would immediately say no just because of that. Second or Sixth would be our best bets. Sixth, because he's anti-war, but would be willing because of the dragon- deaths. Second, because he's pro-United Alliance, but after the "death", he too would be willing. The best part, though, is that they're both conservative." Seventh chuckled.
"Try for Fifth, first. The Council will be more likely to listen and believe him. He rarely talks, but when he does, you know it will be worthwhile," Raven interjected. "He's the most level-headed of the bunch. He doesn't like war, but he doesn't like the UA either. Since he has conflicting viewpoints, he can't help but decide in favor of the best course." She laughed. "Or at least everybody hopes so."
"Yes, he doesn't have any alliances and his main concern is for the tribes he represents, so no one can fault him." Seventh trailed off. "Excellent idea! I'll look into it myself."
"Probably take all the credit as well." Serori murmured.
"After that comment I think I will, Serori Celtai of the Celta Clan." Seventh hissed. "Now, if you will excuse me, I have a war to start." Turning around, he stalked back to Flare, murmured something, then both left the cave. Their footsteps echoing ominously in their wake.
Exchanging glances, Raven and Serori left in the opposite direction of the other two. That was strange. I wonder where Flare fits in the big picture. Serori remarked. Neither of them were paying attention to the caves they walked through. There was no need, they had been through here too many times to care.
I wouldn't mind finding that out, myself. Raven yawned. We're being watched, from behind and from the sides. Can't tell who or what.
I noticed. Came the reply. Then, out loud, "It's been awhile since we've been through here. I've forgotten how what it looks like." Serori winked at Raven, who nodded back. "Beautiful, eh?"
Raven nodded, again, then looked around. Her gaze was rewarded with row after row of stalactites and stalagmites, the walls were covered with crystals that flashed every time one moved their head. Her ears were greeted with the incessant sound of dripping water.. Her eyes narrowed at a patch of the wall that did not flash and wink. There.
Yes. Hmm. I'll take care of it. Can't abide spies, unless they're mine. Serori laughed cruelly. "This really is quite nice, don't you think?" With a wordless snarl, she threw herself at the wall. Grabbing whatever was blocking the crystals, she dragged it back to Raven, ignoring the angered squeaks the creature was emitting.
"Leggo me! I's done noting! NOTING! EACK!" It screeched as Serori gave it a vicious shake. "Whas 'at for?! LEGGO! LEGGO!!"
"SHUT UP!!" Raven bellowed, her voice echoing along the corridors, momentarily deafening Serori and the thing. "Vermin, what were you doing following us? AND DON'T LIE!" She hissed as the thing took a deep breath. "Or I will kill you."
A/N Hey guys, I'm back and I am so sorry for not posting this sooner. I had it written and I thought I posted it but apparently not. I've been working on ch. 5, so anyway read and review.
A/N ok then, thanks for the reviews, they were awesome. Hopefully, you are still reading and enjoying what I am writing. Right, if you're going to flame me, please let me know why. Thank you, now read and enjoy!
An unidentifiable look flashed through Yamano's eyes, but she recovered quickly. "Rydia. How about it?" Her smile was forced though, and the girl felt a wave of sadness at the other's deep pain.
Before the others could say anything, the girl quickly agreed. "Rydia is a fine name. It will suit me well."
"Rydia, Rydia." Murmured Shigeru. "It sounds familiar, where did you get it from?"
"What do you mean where did I get it from?!" Yamano hissed. "It's a name from our homeland in Mysidia. I can't believe you!" She whirled around to face the gi. Rydia. The deep sadness was once again hidden. "Rydia is the name of one of Mysidia's heroes and founders. She was a truly talented person, one of the few women, past and present, able to control a Guymelef, see the past, present, and future, a wielder of magic and had the unique ability to get dragons to listen to her. My family has a portrait of her, and you look a lot like her."
"I remember now." Shigeru snapped back. "Not that you can blame me for forgetting, I haven't been home for ages. I was gone before you were even born. You're right though, there is a striking resemblance, but you forgot one tiny little detail. Like you," He turned to Rydia as well. "She suffered from memory loss. It never returned to her, but I'm sure you'll get yours!" He added quickly at the alarm in her eyes.
"I would be honored to have her name until mine returns." With an enchanting smile, she faced Satoshi and glared at him challengingly. "Unless of course you have any objections to this?"
Alarmed he looked to his two comrades and saw nothing but annoyance, at him, there. "No, no objections whatsoever. Who am I to object? I'm nothing but a figurehead, a figurehead who was supposed to be leading this stupid patrol, but no, no, not I. Of course not." Trailing off, he blushed profusely. Swallowing audibly, he tried to regain some lost shred of dignity. "I don't mind at all, just don't get any ideas about flying Guymelefs. Not going to happen."
"WHY NOT?!" Rydia screeched angrily, not caring as everyone covered their ears. "You chauvinistic pig!! I can't believe you guys. Why is it always the guy who gets to do anything cool? Why can't a woman fight for once?!"
Yamano stopped her before she could say anything else. Calmly, with a nasty glint in her eyes, she said, "Oh, but a woman can fight. Thanks to Naria and Eriya, more females are trying, successfully I might add, to get into the army. Most, though, are taken to remote areas where there are little chances of anything happening. Like me for example. I can fight better than most advanced fighters, except for those in this troop, but for a long time I was stationed in places known for their little activity."
"Even though the two did fight for Zaibach, they started a revolution in the way females thought." Grinning, Shigeru remembered some of the councils he had sat in on and the fierce arguments that were presented there. "If Zaibach let females fight, then why in the Heavens couldn't anyone else." That had been the most debated argument. Both sides had used it, those against females had said that was exactly why they couldn't let females fight. That was the reason Zaibach had lost. This of course had sparked repercussions, people like Allen of Asturia had joined the fray. Offended by it, they had asked if that meant that Zaibach would be in charge at this moment. It had been quite funny to watch the fools squirm.
"It was quite funny to listen to, actually. Eventually though, it was that argument that let females enlist in the army. However, very few get any actual training in the use of Guymelefs. Even I don't know how to use a Guymelef very well." With a sigh, Yamano turned away, this was not her fight, she wouldn't be here for too long anyway. Transfers were coming, and she would be leaving, so it didn't matter too much what she thought. She would get Rydia involved, and, before she left, the girl would be a fierce advocate for the female's cause.
"That's right! You won't be the exception either, not if I have my way." Satoshi had finally gotten control of his blazing face, and was now indignant at the idea of a female flying a Guymelef. "In my opinion, all females are good for is pampering their husband and overseeing the cleaning of the home."
"I wouldn't let Millerna or Eryies hear you talking like that, Satoshi." Shigeru snapped. Those two were the scariest people he had ever met. Tempers like no other, they were known for ruining a man's life for saying things like that. Even Van and Chid were scared of their tempers. Everyone treaded carefully around the two, Satoshi was no exception. "They would have your hide. One more thing, when we get back to base camp, you're being transferred and I will be called Captain once again." There was a note of finality to his voice that ended the conversation for that night.
"Sirs?" Yamano was once again the professional medic. "If I may make a suggestion." Receiving nods in answer, she continued. "It is my opinion that Rydia is in no condition to continue on tonight, seeing as how she has probably suffered psychologically, and we should just camp here tonight. Also, I have seen signs of the Gateny Tribe, and we should stay here and keep an eye on them to make sure they don't do anything foolish."
Looking to Shigeru for an answer, but receiving none, Satoshi finally understood his place in this battalion. He was little more than a figurehead, and depending on Shigeru's report, he would either remain one, or become a leader of a troop. Hopefully, if Millerna and Eryies didn't get wind of this conversation, he would rise to something above the common grunt. "We will stay here for the night. Dante, take two men with you and scout around the swamp. Kita, take two and scout around the lake we passed earlier. Dante, don't take horses, Kita take them, but leave them a little ways away so as not to attract attention to yourselves. GO!" He glanced at Shigeru for approval.
Nodding, Shigeru murmured, just loud enough for Satoshi to hear, "Good thinking, now, about the camp."
A slight flush was the only indication that Satoshi had heard. Without missing a beat, he rapidly deployed orders for setting up the camp.
Later that night, after the patrols had reported in, the watch set up, and everyone was just lounging around, Rydia and Shigeru sat apart from the rest, talking. No one bothered them, everybody else had their worries to attend to. Would they be transferred? Where would they go? The troop had been together for so long, it was almost inevitable most, if not all, would be leaving the next day. Satoshi was the only one not worried, he was still caught up in the days success. Yamano was concerned because she had a feeling that she would be leaving to a "safer" place.
"You really have no idea who you are? No clue to your past?" Shigeru asked. They had been at this for about ten minutes now, and still nothing. Perhaps it was time for a different tactic, one that had been used on the Rydia of old. The only drawback was the flashes of memories had been painful, horrible and had caused a lot of distress to all involved. Smiling grimly, he put up a psychic wall around the two of them.
Rydia looked up from the ground when Shigeru became distant. "What are. Ohhhhh." Her eyes widened in recognition and surprise. "A psychic barr.. no, a wall. I can see it!" It was true, she could see it. A wall of transparent colors, like heat waves. "You're a powerful psychic aren't you?"
A slight start and Shigeru once again focused on Rydia, the grim smile remained. "You could say that. But no one knows but me, and now you. I'd appreciate it if you didn't tell anyone, it gives me an advantage over my enemies." The smile disappeared. "For you to be able to see the wall means you are powerful as well. You never answered the question."
Paling, she fought the urge to flee. "I remember nothing." She turned thoughtful. "I do know, however, I wasn't born here." At the look in his eyes she quickly added, "It's just a feeling I have."
"What do you mean, here?"
"Here. On this land and the lands surrounding it, I'm no native." She gestured to the ground, and then all around. "I do not know the exact location, just it's far way from here."
"Perhaps you are of the forest people, the Mya. Or from the lands around there." He snorted. "In that case, you could be from anywhere. Enough of this!" His voice and countenance turned hard. Ignoring her startled squeak, he asked. "Why do you see the deaths of people?"
Immediately her face went white, her breathing became ragged and then her eyes unfocused and her face returned to its normal color. "Because there is so much death to be seen, so much violence surrounds them." Pain filled her voice, and so great was her distress that Shigeru felt it too.
Ignoring everything, he continued. "What violence?" Looking into her eyes he noticed a blue flame reflected there, but there was no fire of that color anywhere near them.
"The violence that comes from hate, anger. Violence that is spawned by war, war that leaves homeless, orphans, starved and dead in its wake."
"What war?" He jumped on the key word.
"The invisible giants. Burning, everything's burning!" Her voice started to rise. "Have to hide, have to run! Escaflowne, to your right! Watch out! Get out of the way! NO!!" She shrieked, then was quiet. Rocking back and forth, shivering.
Shigeru shook his head slightly, warning the others not to come near. He had a feeling she wasn't through yet and it would be best not to disturb her.
"Intensified Luck Soldiers. Can't come near, DON'T come near." Her voice was an intense whisper. "Focus everything. No distractions, concentrate! Stop him, stop fighting! Blood, too much blood. All is lost, or will be." She blinked, her eyes beginning to clear.
"What blood?" His voice was urgent, her trance was breaking and he needed more information. Had she participated in the Zaibach War?"
"Frieds, Austerias, Fanelias. No one is spared, all are affected." Her voice was no longer intense, just distant. Then, with a shake of her head, she focused completely. "Make it go away! Please, someone, too much pain! LEAVE ME ALONE!!!" Tears were cascading down her face, unheeded. She began to rock, trying to make her pain go away.
"I'm sorry." Grimacing at the amount of pain she was radiating, he moved behind her, pinched a nerve and sighed as she blacked out. Dissipating the wall, he called for Yamano to take care of her. Ignoring Yamano's questions, he moved to the fire and prepared himself for sleep. Long after everyone believed him to be sleeping, he lay awake, pondering all that had passed between him and Rydia.
Wiping all emotion from her face, Serori glanced at Raven and 'pathed her amusement. Idiots. Like they could possibly do anything to us, much less detain us. Ugh, I can't believe you are actually willing to go around like a simple land-dragon. How demeaning. She wrinkled her nose in disgust. Raven had slid her wings and two front feet inside her body, a talent only her and 13s dragon had. Being a pure-blood ancient had its advantages from time to time.
Glancing at Serori sideways, Raven snorted. It's really not that demeaning. All it is is just another advantage I have over others. Just one more talent. Hmm, she glanced at the approaching patrol. I suppose we need to deal with them then? They are getting closer.
True to her word they had just crested the last hill separating them from the dragon and her rider. Right you are. So, should we take them out or give them a good scare? A cruel grin slid across Serori's face. Both would be incredibly entertaining. Her cold gaze watched them as they hurried towards her. Quickly! A decision!
Let's give Fanelia a good scare! Something to put in their reports. A little revenge for my dead cousins. With a loud roar, Raven stretched to her full length and glared angrily at the troop. Ready when you are.
"Fanelia, hmm. This should prove interesting. On my mark." She firmly grabbed her sword and slid it out of its sheath slightly. "Make sure you leave at least three of them alive. NOW!" Her fierce battle cry intermingled with Ravens and her sword came out of the sheath fully as they rushed them.
The troop had no time to prepare, in a few, brief seconds the two were attacking them like demons. Everywhere they looked one was always there, stabbing, biting, killing. With the fierceness of devils they killed mercilessly, not caring who was felled by their fury. Then, they were leaving, running from the site of carnage, and all was quiet. With a mighty jump the devil in human form was on the demon-dragons back and soon both disappeared from sight, leaving only three standing in their wake.
All three were left with injuries varying in degrees of seriousness, though none were life-threatening at the moment. The rest were either dead or dying. They looked at each other, "What do we do now? Captain's dead, so I guess you're in charge, Malken."
Malken, a tall, 26-year old female from a wolf-clan just grunted. Her attention was focused on the carnage surrounding them. "Map." She held out her hand for the map. "We're in the Blackthorn Peak, correct?" A stab wound in her leg and a cut to her shoulder were the only injuries she suffered from.
"Actually, I'd say we're closer to Dragon Lake. 2 kilometers south, exactly." A short, inconspicuous man croaked out. He was the most seriously injured of the three. A deep gash on his thigh, a severe bite on his shoulder, a cut right below his knee, that, if the Dragons tail had been just a little closer, it would've completely cut it off, and a wound to his stomach that was bleeding badly. Currently, he was stitching up his leg, ignoring the bloody sight that awaited his inspection. "There are cons to being a medic, y'know."
With a short laugh, Malken turned her back on the site. "I do not doubt you in any, Drill. I congratulate you on your perseverance in such, ah, troubled times."
"You put it so delicately, Malken." The third person was much more eye-catching. Decked out in a long, black cloak, it was impossible to tell whether this person was male or female; the troop had given up guessing long ago. Noticing Drills inquiring gaze, the mage laughed. "I suffer from no injuries that need attending to. Here, let me help with your stomach."
"Vralen, you really don't." Drill cut himself off with a sigh as Vralen plopped down beside him. Even while sitting, Vralen easily towered over Malken, which was no easy seeing as how Malken was taller than the average male. Shaking his head, Drill turned his attention back to his leg.
"If you don't mind me asking," Squatting besides the two, Malken reached for some bandages. "How do you intend to help the stomach wound when you can't reach it while he's hunched over like that?" With a few deft twists, her wounds were taken care of.
"Magic." Was the short answer.
"Take it easy, Vralen." Holding her hands up in surrender, Malken started to clean Drills shoulder. "You're still living in the pre-war era, it's post-war now, buddy." She laughed softly.
"Old habits die hard, I'm afraid." Came the sheepish reply. Hands beginning to glow, Vralen placed them on Drills back and the glow became more intense. "All the fear, the hatred, the misconceptions. You have no idea how horrible it was for magic-users like me, even now, in this 'enlightened age' there is much prejudice."
"Actually, careful now, I'm about to sit up," Drill slowly straightened his back. "You may not believe us, but we do have an idea. We're," He pointed to himself and Malken. "Magic-users as well. Nothing fancy and not very powerful either. Just a miniscule amount of control. Here, watch." Grunting painfully, he extended his arms outward, palms facing each other. Closing his eyes for a moment, he smirked in satisfactions as a small ball of water appeared in-between his palms.
Vralen watched in surprise as the water began to move and change shape. Astonishment didn't come close to what the mage was feeling. The aura of Malken and Drill was not the aura of magic-users, their aura was strange, but with no hint of magic. Interesting.
Grinning at Vralens reaction, Malken turned her attention back to the numerous corpses that she had the pleasure of dealing with. She knew what Drill would do, the water would shape itself into a water-dragon, a leviathan, then freeze. That was the easiest thing in the world to do; not surprisingly Drill had lied about the extent of their powers. Whatever, she had bigger things to worry about than Drills, "Parlor tricks."
"I beg your pardon!" Drill looked up, mock offense clouding his face. "These beautiful creations are far from parlor tricks. You're just jealous. That's all. Oh, and why you're up, 'Captain', please check on whose dead and whose still managing to stay alive." He turned back to the water that was now beginning to freeze, satisfied with how much emotion colored Vralen's aura. "Aaaand, VIOLA! All is finished. Here, keep it." He handed the leviathan over to Vralen with a flourish. "Oh, be careful, it may or may not melt."
"Thanks." Vralen said sarcastically. "What a wonderful present that may or may not disappear in a matter of minutes. I'm honored, really, truly, honored. Thank you, really, I just don't know how to express my satisfaction for this. What is there to say to the person who created a gift of this caliber and just gives it up so, so selflessly. I'm tongue- tied, really."
"You don't have to sound so sarcastic. Jeez, here I am, trying my hardest to make this beautiful ice sculpture." Muttering in fake anger, he got quieter and quieter until he was incoherent. "Oh, Malken, how's the body-count coming?"
"Well, considering that this is supposed to be the medics job it's going just fine." Yelling back at him, Malken was kicking various bodies around, making sure that no one was hiding and had somehow escaped death, so far it was proving fruitless. "At the moment it seems like we're the only ones alive."
"And I was so looking forward to doing the body-count to. But, seeing as how I'm too injured to move and everything, I just can't." Pretending to try and move, Drill moaned loudly for the benefit of everyone present. "Sorry. Seems like it's impossible." He smiled mournfully, then stifled a laugh at the look shot him by Malken. "If looks could kill."
"You'd be rotting in you're grave, little man. If only." Sighing dramatically, Malken kept on kicking.
"If you're as injured as you say you are," Vralen murmured. "We should probably just leave you here for the scavengers. You'd only just slow us down."
"Too true!" Malken shouted back at them. "'Cause I am NOT walking all the way back to HQ." She had disappeared from sight, seeing if there were any animals left that would carry them.
"I refuse to walk, I won't, I CAN'T!" Laughing softly, Drill relaxed on the ground, looking at the clouds. "That one," He pointed for Vralens sake. "Looks like a dragon, that one's a Guymelef, a floating fortress. OOH! That one looks just like Mal. ken. A very ticked off Malken?" He tried to look innocent.
"What are you doing?!" She hissed slowly, punctuating each word with a kick to Drills side. "There's work that even a pea-brained, ignorant pig- dog like you could be doing. You lazy, good for nothing IDIOT! You, my good friend, are walking!" Whirling around, she walked back to where she had left the two horses. "Here Vralen, this one's yours." She handed the reigns to Vralen, then mounted the other horse. After Vralen was on his horse she took off; Vralen right behind her.
"HEY!! WAIT FOR ME!!! THIS IS NOT COOL!" Realizing their intent a second too late, Drill was left to follow, hoping that they would stop at nightfall for camp. Gritting his teeth resolutely, Drill got to his feet and started to hop after them. "GUUUUUUUUUUYS!!!!!!!"
"Wow, I haven't had this much of a rush since the Hitomi incident." An evil grin lighting upon Serori's face as she thought about what they had just done.
"I'm glad you enjoyed it." Growled her companion. Raven was not very happy about the form she had had to use. "I found it quite demeaning." She all but spat out. "How can land-dragons possibly live like this? No wings to fly with, only two legs." Trailing off at the contemplative look on Serori's face, Raven felt a familiar tug in her mind.
Mulling over what had just been said, Serori didn't notice Raven trailing off. "They are born like that, they know nothing else, so, how can they miss it?" Realizing that Raven wasn't listening, she gave her a nasty glare. "RAVEN! Hellooo, anybody there?" Sweetness oozed from her voice.
"Of course I'm here, stupid HUMAN! Where else would I be?" Purposely ignoring what Serori had really meant, she dealt the Dragoon an insult. "Obviously your HUMAN blood has made you stupider than anyone thought possible." Maybe that was going a little too far. Shoot.
It was well-known throughout the Dragoon race that 13's favorite assassin had unknown blood. Those that hated her liked to speculate, especially when she was around, that she was not a pure-blood. A favorite comment they liked to use to anger her was that it was human blood that contaminated her otherwise "pureness". Felcor especially loved to taunt her about it. If only they knew the truth.
"You dare," She paused, trying to get her anger under control. It failed. "How dare you?! You, especially you, should understand, should know the truth. What now? Are you now my enemy, you will not enjoy it if you are." Her words were low, intense and hard. How dare her closest, no not friend, she didn't have friends, her closest comrade say something like that?! She had trusted the dragon, and look where that trust had gotten her.
"Shut up." Raven snapped. She wasn't in the mood for Serori's tirade at the moment. "You know full well I didn't mean it so get off your high-horse." Voice calming slightly, she glared daggers at Serori. She wasn't in the mood for this.
"Sorry." Serori grunted, the fire in her eyes receding, slightly. "You should have heard Felcor though. The whole time, a mental barrage of insults. It was getting annoying."
With a slight hiss, Raven returned to her normal form. "I completely understand. You should hear what they say about me and letting you befriend me. It gets pretty vicious." She felt the tug on her mind again. "Crap. Seventh wishes to talk with us on our, uh, progress."
"Really." A vicious smile played on Serori's lips. "Well then, we mustn't disappoint." She hopped onto Raven's back. "Shall we?"
"Why not, nothing better to do." Raven grinned cruelly. "Besides, flying will help me forget having to act like a, a, a land-dragon!" She shuddered visibly. "I can't stand it." Receiving no comment from her companion but a mocking laugh, she suddenly launched herself into the air, enjoying the annoyed growl she received for the action.
Grinning like an idiot, Serori debated whether to yell at the dragon or just relax and enjoy the flight. She settled on relaxing, besides she loved flying, whether it was with Raven or by herself it didn't matter. Flying was a great way to relax and it allowed her to put her problems in perspective. "Dumb dragon. I could've fallen off and killed myself." At least she hadn't yelled.
"That was the point, too bad it didn't work." Raven growled. Serori wasn't really mad, anyone who knew her knew she loved to fly, it was what relaxed her. It worked for Raven as well. All too soon, for the both of them, the flight ended. It had given them a chance to square away many of their problems. Unfortunately, this meeting would only give them more problems to worry about. With a light thud, Raven landed in the place where Seventh had requested they meet.
They were in one of many caves that formed a virtual labyrinth beneath the Adomii range. It was a little too close to Freid for comfort, but that was why they were meeting here. This specific area of caves were called the Flaming Caves, for two reasons. The crystals that were strewn on all the walls were lit by the glow of lava and looked as if on fire. Also, instead of rivers of water, there were rivers of magma and here, they were especially close and the caves felt like a furnace. Dragons were the only species who felt at home in this environment.
"Goddess! How could you possibly live here?!" Serori snapped, after waiting for 15 minutes for Seventh to show. "It's hot!"
"Yes, well, dragons have thicker skins than humans and dragoons." Raven said smugly. "Therefore it is only natural for us to be able live in such environments. Just one more way that dragons are superior."
Before Serori could reply, a smooth, silky voice spoke up behind them. "When you are quite finished, comrades?"
Both of them whirled around and glared at the newcomer. "Seventh, so kind of you to join us; and so like you to choose a place like this." Serori hissed. "You kept us waiting. What was so urgent that you could be late for? Who's he?" Serori jerked her head at the dragon squatting in the doorway.
"That would be my escort." Seventh chuckled. "It wouldn't look right if I were to come using a Guymelef. Be stopped by every good soldier I came across. Didn't want to deal with that right now." Like all the other members of the Shadow Council, Seventh was shrouded in shadow, no distinguishing features were discernible. "This is a native of these caves. May I introduce you to my friend, fire-dragon Flare."
"It is not often one meets a fire-dragon, let al one a native from the Adom Labyrinth 'Tis a pleasure." Raven respectfully bowed her head. "I am the Ancient Dragon Ravenwing Fatale." For a brief moment she seemed to fill the room, her eyes lit by a black fire, then, it was gone. "This is my companion, the Dragon-friend Serori Celtai."
Flare kneeled for a moment, then stood, still lounging in the doorway. "It's an honor to be in and Ancient's presence, let alone yours. I know who both of you are. News of your exploits have reached even our ears, deep underneath Freid. If ever you are in need of our assistance, please, let us know."
"On the behalf or the Celta Clan, and Shadow Council member 13, a Dragoon, I thank you for your offer." Serorir stood beside Raven and gave a half bow. Straightening, she ignored Seventh's amusement. Opening her mouth, she was cut off by Seventh again.
"If we are done with all the pleasantries, I would like to get down to business." Seventh pushed himself off the wall and walked over to Serori and Raven. "A word of caution Raven, if I were you I would not reveal myself again. Now, tell me about your progress. Is all going well?"
A cold smile lit Serori's face. "Everything is proceeding smoothly and every deadline is being met. No real delays. Nothing is tying Hitomi to the Mystic Moon, she is now in Gaea with no memories of her past and is with a troop that will be going back to the main city soon. After we're through here, we will go to a meeting with our contact to retrieve the stone. What's going on with the Council?"
"The cowards are still reluctant." Contempt laced his voice. "You should hear some of their arguments. 'The number of dragon-kills is steadily declining.'" His voice was a perfect imitation of Felcor's. "It gets really annoying, their arguments are weak and they know it. They're just afraid to fight." He paused, "If we could get Hitomi to kill a dragon, or frame her so it looks like it, then it would be a whole different story."
Serori grinned. "That just might work. The dragon wouldn't even have to die. If we could make it look like she was about to kill one, then get the right Council Member to talk about it, they'd be more than willing to fight. They'd have to be. The tribes would demand it. An intentional death of a dragon is not taken lightly."
"It couldn't be 13, the more conservative Members would immediately say no just because of that. Second or Sixth would be our best bets. Sixth, because he's anti-war, but would be willing because of the dragon- deaths. Second, because he's pro-United Alliance, but after the "death", he too would be willing. The best part, though, is that they're both conservative." Seventh chuckled.
"Try for Fifth, first. The Council will be more likely to listen and believe him. He rarely talks, but when he does, you know it will be worthwhile," Raven interjected. "He's the most level-headed of the bunch. He doesn't like war, but he doesn't like the UA either. Since he has conflicting viewpoints, he can't help but decide in favor of the best course." She laughed. "Or at least everybody hopes so."
"Yes, he doesn't have any alliances and his main concern is for the tribes he represents, so no one can fault him." Seventh trailed off. "Excellent idea! I'll look into it myself."
"Probably take all the credit as well." Serori murmured.
"After that comment I think I will, Serori Celtai of the Celta Clan." Seventh hissed. "Now, if you will excuse me, I have a war to start." Turning around, he stalked back to Flare, murmured something, then both left the cave. Their footsteps echoing ominously in their wake.
Exchanging glances, Raven and Serori left in the opposite direction of the other two. That was strange. I wonder where Flare fits in the big picture. Serori remarked. Neither of them were paying attention to the caves they walked through. There was no need, they had been through here too many times to care.
I wouldn't mind finding that out, myself. Raven yawned. We're being watched, from behind and from the sides. Can't tell who or what.
I noticed. Came the reply. Then, out loud, "It's been awhile since we've been through here. I've forgotten how what it looks like." Serori winked at Raven, who nodded back. "Beautiful, eh?"
Raven nodded, again, then looked around. Her gaze was rewarded with row after row of stalactites and stalagmites, the walls were covered with crystals that flashed every time one moved their head. Her ears were greeted with the incessant sound of dripping water.. Her eyes narrowed at a patch of the wall that did not flash and wink. There.
Yes. Hmm. I'll take care of it. Can't abide spies, unless they're mine. Serori laughed cruelly. "This really is quite nice, don't you think?" With a wordless snarl, she threw herself at the wall. Grabbing whatever was blocking the crystals, she dragged it back to Raven, ignoring the angered squeaks the creature was emitting.
"Leggo me! I's done noting! NOTING! EACK!" It screeched as Serori gave it a vicious shake. "Whas 'at for?! LEGGO! LEGGO!!"
"SHUT UP!!" Raven bellowed, her voice echoing along the corridors, momentarily deafening Serori and the thing. "Vermin, what were you doing following us? AND DON'T LIE!" She hissed as the thing took a deep breath. "Or I will kill you."
A/N Hey guys, I'm back and I am so sorry for not posting this sooner. I had it written and I thought I posted it but apparently not. I've been working on ch. 5, so anyway read and review.