{{Okay….my little sabbatical is over with.
I've been enjoying myself. Actually found a book on Kendo! ::Celebrates::
[Although, I have to give up getting my katana for awhile…::Sighs:: I guess that's alright. I probably should've been concentrating on getting a shinai first, anyway.]
So, I'm hoping it'll help me get my messy head together, and I won't have to take these little vacations anymore…
Oh…ehe…right…….you came for the fic, and not to hear about me, and my boring little life^_^
I didn't mean to make it seem that writing was Dilly's career in the last chapter. He only wrote one book. Sorry for the confusion on that.
And….I promise, Chid will get more of the spotlight in this fic later on.
::Feels bad that he hasn't gotten much in a fic which is supposed to be his own::
He doesn't really do much in this chapter…::Sighs::
[But, then most of you seem to care a lot about the other characters…so I think you'll forgive me^_^]
On with the fic….Bon Apetite!}}
PART TWO
Complete silence is an eerie thing to hear. They say it doesn't exist….but that's not true. It exists in the homes of the dead, where mourners are afraid to disturb those tired spirits. That is the one last thing they may do for the dead. Allow them some rest if they come back….
Chid stared at the tapestry in front of him. This time was always particularly hard….the anniversary of his father's death, and that horrible attack on Freid.
They'd be mourning back home, as well. Lights would be extinguished in all the houses, to represent all the lives which were lost that day. All lights, except one…that was to represent those few who had survived.
He meditated for hours like that…just sitting…staring. Strengthening his resolve to become a better leader for Freid, to live up to those expectations his father had for him.
A messenger knocked softly on the door, and came in.
Messenger: "Forgive me for disturbing you, your grace…but it's time that you went to the capital building."
Chid nodded, and stood up.
Chid: "Get a carriage ready for me. I'll be down in five minutes."
The men were already in a heated debate.
"It must be done now!"
"Yes….before things get any worse…."
Allen: "You don't understand. If we do that…the results will be catastrophic."
There was much grumbling. Nearly everyone was agreed on this attack….except a few troublemakers.
"No, you don't understand. If we don't do this, the results will be catastrophic. That country is a breeding ground for trouble. They're running out of food. Most of the population is made up women, and the children of those who had been killed….they were never able to learn the skills they needed from their fathers. As a result, Freid is a dangerous nation to let sit by itself."
"Yes, we must go in and take it over!"
"It's plain and simple. We need to take it over, and ensure it's safety."
Allen: "It's not that simple….we need to give the Duke a chance to prove that Freid will stand up on its own…"
"Well, of course *you* wouldn't mind a country being run by a bunch of criminals…you plan on taking office there after this is over?"
Gaddes: "No. He wouldn't even try to run…he'd lose out to all of you…"
Gaddes had come up from his out-post in order to help out here. Even though he was now in charge of Allen's old position, the two were still good friends. They kept in touch, and helped each other out when it was needed.
Allen glared at his former subordinate.
Allen: "Gaddes, please…that's not helping.
He turned back to the others.
Allen: "Freid has done nothing against us…or anyone else, for that matter. You haven't done anything to see what alternatives are available yet. You can't be serious about taking it over."
Chid was ashen faced when he entered the room. No one had told him of this new development.
Chid: "You would destroy my country….without even bothering to tell me?"
"Your Grace..please understand….we are only thinking of how best to keep the peace."
They were so very patronizing. They still viewed Chid as a child…
Chid: "As am I. While you have only to worry about where to send your soldiers and what targets to hit, I must think of the best interests of all of Freid."
He moved closer to the man he was talking with.
Chid: "We desire no troubles with you and yours. We have enough to deal with now….therefore, I implore you, let something be worked out between us."
"Your grace...you don't seem to understand the situation. If we allow Freid to-"
Chid: "You didn't seem much interested in helping it before, when it really needed support. That is why there are such troubles there now. You're not even giving us a chance to-"
"We can't afford to give you that chance."
The statement struck a chord with the present situation. It was true. No one felt that Chid could be trusted as a leader. Even though he'd shown himself to be an excellent ruler, everyone was always apprehensive about following his advice. They were terrified that he'd screw something up, because he was too young to understand.
If only they knew how old he felt…all his experiences dragged on his mind. They must have aged him at least twenty years. He wouldn't be surprised if his hair had started graying already.
Chid: "You can afford to. You are watching Freid closer than the hawks which fly above us. If the situation become worse, you'll be ready to go in and stop the problem before it spreads too far. However, it is entirely unnecessary at the present time."
"We can't do that."
Dryden had been sitting in the background all this time. He was perhaps the only person who had any faith in Chid at all, and he always tried to allow Chid to do everything on his own. However, he could see that Chid was losing this argument, and through no fault of his own.
Dryden: "I find it highly irregular that such a man of high-standing in the military as yourself can find no other strategic alternative. Especially since one of your hobbies is skinning cats."
"Your majesty, this is the only way that we can ensure-"
Dryden: "Nonsense...there's always another way. Duke Freid has been more than patient with you. His ideas hold merit. I suggest that you follow them."
Chid: "Thank you, Asturia. I shall go to Freid presently, and try to repair the situation at hand."
The meeting was adjourned shortly after that. Chid had every intention of fullfilling the promise he had just made, but there was some small delay.
Some feared for Chid's safety. Without him there to lead the people, those who would wish to rebel would have an easy time taking over. Political confusion would ensue.
Therefore, to ensure his security, it was decided that guards be sent to protect those of the government. One person was sent specifically to be Chid's bodyguard. There was only one person they could think of for the job....Allen Schezar. He was one of the best swordsmen in all of Gaea. And, because of how far he was known to follow chivalry, and the fact that he had always seemed eager to help prevent Freid from falling to total destruction, he was perfect for the job.
Allen bid Gaddes a quick farewell. Gaddes wouldn't be back from his port for the next seven months, and Allen would be in Freid indefinitely. There was no telling when they might see each other again.
Allen headed for home. He was given a day to get his affairs in order, and then he had to ship off to Freid indefinitely.
Allen had an easy time of getting his outward affairs in order. He didn't have many social connections these days. It was the affairs of his home he was worried about.
Dirandau definitely wouldn't be happy about this.
The gatekeeper did not greet him. Not that this was anything to fret over. The gatekeeper never said anything to Allen.
Likewise, the maids and the cook, and the groundskeeper….none of them ever said a word to him, except to complain or to ask for their pay.
With a sigh, he thought, :: "Such a lonely life.."::, and pushed it away from his mind.
The house was empty, as usual.
The silence…the way the air hardly moves, for fear of disturbing the dust…All his life, he'd remember that.
All empty houses feel that way.
Some people think that when one lives such a life where one is constantly suffering through some trauma, or everyone is always leaving, that a person can be fine when all that isn't going on. When they're alone. When a quiet calm takes over everything.
But, even rocks covered by a sheet of ice will still remain rough and jagged.
The lights were low in the house. Allen could hardly see where he was walking to. As he headed for the next doorway, he tripped over something.
Allen: "Aya….what is this?
He sat up. Next to his feet was a pair of boots and a few bottles.
::"So, he finally came home…"::
Allen stood up, and brushed himself off. He was thankful for one thing, at least. Now he wouldn't have to waste time looking for Dirandau, and dreading this encounter. There was only one stop Dirandau made after having come home from one of those all-night sprees…..the couch in the parlour. It was such a lovely spot to pass out in.
Sure enough, Dirandau was sprawled out over that couch, his clothes completely wrinkled, his collar all askew. He had with him several papers, and a few books. One covered his face, probably to block out what little light came into the room.
Unlike some people, Dirandau didn't look adorable or harmless while he was sleeping. Even in those dreamless hours, one could tell that he was a killer, a murderer, and one to be feared.
Allen smacked Dirandau across the shoulder. He had long since then realized that being kind and timid when it came to dealing with Dirandau was no way to get anything done. One had to find a balance between being a harsh disciplinarian, and being a molly-coddling caretaker.
Dirandau sat up, ready for a fight.
Dirandau: "Ayaaaa….don't try anything, !#@%....."
He had his fists up in the air, prepared to defend himself.
Dirandau: "You touch me again, and I'll……"
His voice trailed off when he realized it was just Allen.
Dirandau: "Allen, how many time do I have to tell you not to do that anymore??"
He smacked Allen.
Allen just shrugged it off.
Allen: "I see you're as cheerful as ever. No sleep has done you a lot of good once again."
Dirandau whacked Allen across the face with one of his books.
Dirandau: "QUIT TELLING HOW TO LIVE!!!"
Allen rubbed his now reddened cheek.
Allen: "If I didn't, who would?"
Dirandau: "No one, and that's the point."
Dirandau stood up. He began straightening his clothes, and picking up his things.
Dirandau: "And you wonder why I don't like to come back here…"
Allen tried to help pick the things up, but Dirandau just pushed him away.
Dirandau: "Don't bother. I can take care of it."
Allen sighed, and sat back down.
Allen: "So, where were you all this time?"
Dirandau: "That's none of your business!"
Allen: "I was only asking…no need to be so defensive."
Dirandau: "Of course I have to be defensive! Aya….when you're involved, I always have to be defensive…you never leave me alone."
Allen: "You can't blame me for worrying."
Dirandau: "Yes I can. And, I do."
Allen: "Fine, blame me…but cooperate with me."
The two glared at eachother for a moment, and then Dirandau continued with his work. He collected everything, and started for the door.
Dirandau: "I'll be gone tomorrow as well. I tried to sign up for that swordsmanship competition…and they informed me that no member of the Schezar family is allowed to enter it ever again. I've got to find out why."
Allen: "You won't have time for that."
Allen was a little glad that Dirandau wouldn't have time to get to the bottom of that mystery. He wasn't exactly proud of the reason why, and it was all his fault.
Dirandau: "Why do you have to be so thick-headed? I just told you to stop telling me what to do…you can't control my life, so stop trying."
Allen: "It's not my choice this time. I'm being sent out of state for a time. That means that you have to come with me."
Dirandau dropped everything he was carrying.
Dirandau: "What??? A time….how long does that mean?"
Allen: "It could be anywhere from a week to a year…or maybe more…"
Dirandau just stood, staring at him for a bit.
Dirandau: "But…I've just begun…to actually get my life together here…..I've got my contracts…and my everything. You…can't do this…to me…."
Allen: "I'm sorry for your loss, but this is not my choice."
Dirandau: "Oh, yes…not your choice. That's a phrase you're always using. It lets you forget about the fact that you don't want to do what you're doing …"
Allen: "I'm only doing my duty."
Dirandau: "You're only letting them take advantage of you. That's fine if you want to live your life like that, as their little harlot….but now you're ruining my life as well! I'm not going to do this."
Allen: "You have one alternative, Dirandau: Prison. I don't think you want to go there."
Prison would be doubly bad for Dirandau. Asturia still kept some of those prisoners of war locked up…including those sorcerers. They would be happy to see them, that's certain.
Dirandau: "RrrrrrrRR! Tell them you're not going….tell them anything. Just get out of this!!"
Allen: "I'm sorry….there is no possible way."
Dirandau leaned against a wall. He knew there was nothing he could do…not if Allen acted like this. Allen would never even try to get out of this. He'd do exactly as he was told. And Dirandau had to go along with it, no matter what.
::"Chk..…he talks about having no choices…."::
Dirandau: "Do you realize…..this is the end of my career? They'll never hire me again….not after this…"
It had been a long time searching for a career that was right for Dirandau. Three years, at least. Finally, they decided it would be best just to go with his strengths….fire and destruction. He was the leading pyrotechnics engineer in Asturia. Right now, he was getting ready for the next big Asturian celebration. They depended on him to plan out all the fireworks.
Dirandau: "I'll have to tell those contractors I'm leaving."
Allen: "Oh, I can have that taken care of for you. After all, there isn't much time, and you'll probably want to-"
Dirandau: "No! It's my job, I'll take care of it."
This fight was common between these two…it just kept repeating itself over and over. Allen's personality was one that required being able to take care of everything around him. Dirandau was much too independent for someone like that. Increasingly he felt the need to do for himself anything he possibly could, no matter how small.
It was no wonder that the two conflicted so much.
Dirandau: "This will be the last semblance of my career….they won't bother hiring me again…..because…..they can't trust that I'll be there when they need me."
Dirandau sounded quite heartbroken.
This was the only thing he could say that he'd done on his own…and he was good at it. Now he would have to leave it all behind. Just because Allen couldn't stand up to his own people.
Dirandau: "Of all things, I won't let you take that away from me."
Dryden had not been joking about the fact that Eries wanted to see Allen. The two often met together, to talk and make sure the other was alright.
It lifted Eries' spirit's a little just to see him. He was the only other person who had known her sisters well. No one else realized how much she missed them. The emotions were far too well hidden under that emotionless face.
Right now, they were seated across from each other, at a dining room table. She was prattling on and on….and he was just sitting there, staring thoughtfully at the pattern in the wood.
Eries: "You're not even listening to me, are you?"
It was obvious that he wasn't, because he didn't even bother to respond to her enquiry.
Eries: "Allen…?"
Still no response.
She sighed, and stood up.
It was now that Allen decided to notice what was happening.
Allen: "Oh…you're leaving? I should probably go too, anyway…that boat will probably be in the harbour soon, and-"
Eries: "I shouldn't have asked you to come. You're obviously in no condition to be around other people."
Allen: "What do you mean by that?"
She shook her head.
Eries: "I know what's troubling you. The whole royal family knows. And….well, you don't think that the people aren't figuring out what's going on, do you?"
Allen went pale.
Allen: "Then, they've figured out the secret…"
Eries: "Yes, but not the secret you're thinking of."
She sat down as Allen stared quizzically at her.
Eries: "You and Chid look so much alike…if you were the same age, one wouldn't be able to tell you apart."
She wished that he could've figured this out already. There was no easy way to say it.
Eries: "They think your mother had an affair with my father."
She went on to repeat the story that had been concocted. Encya, a wild and incorrigible young woman with absolutely no moral background had somehow managed to woo the upstanding King Aston. Leon found out soon enough, and it drove him mad. That was why he left….to rid himself of his unfaithful wife, and to possibly find another.
It also explained why Allen did not get along with Leon, and why King Aston was so lenient on him in many cases. And why one such as he was able to become a Knight Caeli.
And, of course….it would explain why Allen was such a tom-cat with the ladies…
Oh, how easily those idiots ripped a person's life to shreds with their gossip and their rumors…
Allen grew tired of it, this game. He had been losing for quite some time. The intelligent thing would be to just drop all his cards and quit the game now. But that would be improper. He had tried to leave before, after he thought he'd lost everything. But apparently, he hadn't lost enough to quit the game. They dragged him back. And now they would never let him forget his attempt to leave.
His mind glidded elsewhere.
He thought of his poor, dear mother, lying there as she did all those years ago. Those long, agonizing days….
Along with his grief, he'd taken on his mother's sorrow as well….as if he hoped that in doing so, he could somehow lighten her burden.
For some time, it was just them there, completely alone together.
Encya: "You'll be good, won't you? When I'm gone?"
Allen: "Don't talk so, mother…you'll get better. The doctors say you're doing well…"
That was a lie. Her health was declining fast, and it was definite that she wouldn't last much longer.
But, he was willing to pretend. They could pretend that everything was alright for awhile longer. No one ever has to stop pretending until the problem is completely obvious, until it is too big to hide.
She smiled, and put a gentle hand to the side of his face.
Encya: "You're wonderful…so kind….your father would be proud of you."
He forced himself to smile. That time was when he most hated Leon. He couldn't comprehend why the man had just left them all like that. He was too young to understand any of the reasons why.
Encya: "Just….remember…to be good…."
With that, she dropped off into an unconscious state. He held onto her hand for a few moments more, then placed it on the bed.
It was better that she got some sleep. She could forget her pain in her sleep. Eternal sleep…
She wasn't always a kind woman. Most invalids take on that terrible temperament that makes most people wish to leave them. But he stood up to it. He loved her, and he knew that she needed him.
She was beautiful, both inside and out. There weren't enough words for him to describe how wonderful she was.
And now they would disgrace her, and look well upon his father, who was so far at fault. How cruel….how utterly cruel….
He would've given anything to keep this from happening. Protecting her name was the last thing he'd be able to do for her. But the dead don't depend on reputations.
There were the living to consider. He recalled all those problems that would be caused, if the secret were to be told. It didn't matter how much more Allen had to suffer from those idiots. If Chid could remain untouched by it, then he'd let everything else fall away. Even if it meant letting those who had committed crimes receive no punishment for them, and letting the innocent suffer blindly. There had to be at least one person who would not be cursed, and that would be Chid.
Eries put a hand on his shoulder.
Eries: "I'm sorry, Allen."
But, she wasn't sorry for his pain. She was sorry for what Allen had done to her family. The Schezars and the Astons would forever be intertwined. Allen had tainted them with the same misfortune his family suffered. It was almost as if there were some irrevocable curse upon them all.
And poor Marlene…Allen had taken advantage of her innocence, and placed her under that same curse.
Eries still refused to acknowledge that she was in any way at fault. She could have been happy, had Allen not come along. Instead, she chose to throw everything away…and live the rest of her life, alone, hiding in shame.
Eries still had those precious letters which were sent to her during Marlene's time of greatest trial. Marlene trusted only Eries enough to tell everything to.
Everyone always trusted Eries with their secrets. That cold emotionless mask never prompted any questions which would lead her to tell them anything, and she wasn't fond of talking when it wasn't necessary.
It took Dirandau only five minutes to destroy beyond repair anything that could be considered valuable. That was his usual record.
He went into the building of his contractors, and came out three minutes later…the task was done.
::"Well….at least I broke my record…"::
He had explained everything that was going on. At least, everything that his pride would allow him too. He hadn't mentioned anything about being forced to leave with Allen because he was considered a ward by the government. He said that he simply had a job offer he couldn't pass up.
They gave him their best wishes, and said that they were sad to see him go. But he knew what they were really thinking. They were wondering why they ever hired that 'irresponsible little Zaibach brat,' and wondering why Dirandau hadn't decided to abandon them earlier. They could expect no less from such a traitor.
Just because the war was long gone didn't mean that people didn't still hold to their old hatreds. Dirandau was lucky that this was a place of merchants. The Lady Gold overruled all loyalties to other gods or emotions. Dirandau's talent with destruction, organized or other, was too good for them to pass up. If that weren't so, then he'd never have gained a single contract.
Dirandau sighed. He didn't even know where he was going to. Typical…
He never really was in control of his life, was he? No…and he never would be in the future…
He cringed. He remembered those words Allen had said to him.
"Your future is entirely at your command…"
:: "Chk….Allen….why do you have to lie so much??"::
He couldn't believe he fell for that line. If this was having control over his life, then he wondered what captivity must mean to Allen….being physically bound by chains?
He smirked.
"Maybe it's Fanelia we're going to. I could stand to do a little redecorating for dear old Van."
He sighed. No, no…he couldn't start thinking like that again. If he did, he'd probably slip back into his old habits. And he couldn't afford the trouble.
"They expect me not to kill him now. I've got to do as they expect….it's my responsibility."
He stopped dead in his tracks. How could it be? He was starting to think….like Allen.
::"No…no…..please, no…."::
He couldn't live like that. He wouldn't live like that.
Bowing and scraping to other people, pleading for them to let you go on your way, even ifyou were going somewhere to help them. That just wasn't his style.
And yet….there was that unbending rule.
::"You have no choice."::
It felt like a weight upon his shoulders, that would one day break his back.
What was so horrible about being in denial?
At least when he was in Zaibach, he felt like he was in charge. Even though he probably never really was, he felt like it…and he didn't feel the pain that they caused him. Not like now.
It had been like being in some nice cozy shelter. He was shielded from everything, even those lamentations winds outside. No snow, no rain, no hail, no daggers of precipitation could touch him.
Even if he'd been chained there….he was still protected from things that hurt.
And now, he had been 'saved' from that 'prison.' He had to face all those elements, those things which scarred him, which injured him beyond repair.
He wasn't so certain that he'd make it.
::"Aya…..maybe it's time I go visit my friend at the bar…"::
Yes, his ever faithful friend, who would be waiting for him always. Neither offering advise nor giving words to make him despair, that drink was always there for him…his constant companion in a torrentious world.
He chose a pub at random, and ordered his usual. It didn't matter which pub he chose, he'd been to them all so often that he had a 'usual' at each one.
These were quite helpful institutions. When he ran out of work or other things to do, these places gave him an excuse to stay away from home.
Home…that word was not a word he preferred to use in regards to the Schezar estate.
Although, he didn't exactly mind being called part of the Schezar family. They were so odd, and psychotic…they made him feel almost normal. If he couldn't be considered elite, then he would at least like to feel normal. Not like a freak, or a monster. Not like what everyone else called him.
Seven glasses…then eight…...then ten. And then the bottle was empty.
He picked it up, and stared at it through one eye.
Ten glasses finish a bottle.
13 glasses are guaranteed to make you dead-drunk.
20 are guaranteed to make you dead.
::"And they said I was never good at math.."::
He set the glass down on the table, and began spinning it….spinning…spinning….he wondered where it would stop, where it would end.
::"It's not going anywhere in particular. It just keeps spinning because it has to…I wonder if it even wants to keep spinning like that…"::
He spent an hour like that. Wishing it didn't have to end, hoping that maybe something would happen which would mean he didn't have to leave his life behind.
But, nothing is inevitable, and Dirandau realized that…even through the hazy gossamer curtain of wine.
Dirandau: "I'll be going now….just leave that on my bill…"
He conveniently 'forgot' for the moment that he wouldn't be back later to pay it.
Bartender: "Want me to ring up a carriage for you?"
Dirandau: "Nope…Not going home today….."
The bartender glanced at Dirandau, worried. He had come to know Dirandau well….as well as anyone could know him. He knew the young man was prone to be depressed, as his homelife wasn't the best. And he had heard nothing of the fact that he was leaving the country in less than a day.
He could assume no idea other than that that Dirandau had decided to kill himself.
Bartender: "Why don't you…uh…just stay here for a bit more? And maybe talk?"
Dirandau shook his head.
Dirandau: "No, I don't have time….I'll be late."
The bartender blinked.
::"Cripes…he plans it right down to the minute?"::
Dirandau stood up, and stretched. He nearly toppled over.
Bartender: "I insist that you stay the night here."
Dirandau: "No. I've got to go down to the water…the..uh….whatever it's name is….."
He started straightening his clothes, and picking his things up.
Bartender: "You mean the ocean?"
Dirandau: "Yeah…that's the one."
::"He's going to drown himself….Allen would never forgive me for this…"::
The bartender whispered something to the bouncer, who went into the back room.
Bartender: "Hey…seeing as you're leaving and all….why not have one last farewell drink? On me."
Dirandau: "Oh, alright….."
If he had been in a more cognitive state, he would've known better than to take it. This bartender never gave out anything for free….never.
The bouncer returned with two drinks he had just mixed. Something 'special.' He handed them to Dirandau and the bartender.
Bartender: "Well….cheers.."
Dirandau wasn't in the mood to waste time. He drank his as quickly as possible. He promptly collapsed onto the floor a minute later.
Bouncer: "Will he be alright?"
Bartender: "Oh, of course. He's had it before. It's made to keep unruly drunken customers from being a danger to others. After all, it wouldn't do me any good to have my customers doing anything that'd land them in jail, now would it?"
Those wonderful merchants….always thinking with their wallets.
Bartender: "Just take him in the back. He'll be fine. I'll go find his brother, and tell him that he's here."
The bartender left.
The bouncer did as he was told. He laid Dirandau on a table in the backroom. He was about to lock the door, but something made him hesitate.
Something about the way he looked, lying there….
The bouncer was young. He was practically still a child, but strong…many of these children were strong nowadays. The damage of war always makes its children strong. They have to become that way, in order to survive.
He didn't know much about the war, the source of his strength. Some thought it best not to teach children of those things…not the events, not the people. They thought this would help to prevent more wars. If people didn't know of evil, then how could they commit it?
He didn't know anything about those issues wrapped within layers and layers of other issues, through Dirandau and so many other people suffered to live day to day. He couldn't understand even if someone told him…there was no possible way that he would ever understand.
He took a thick tablecloth, and covered Dirandau with it. They had no blankets, so this would do just as well.
He still questioned whether Dirandau was alright. Maybe he wouldn't wake up.
That's what this man wanted, wasn't it? He wondered what could possibly make a person want to stop living. What could be so horrible, so intolerable? And why were all the older generations so tired?
He sighed, and shut the door. No one would be answering these questions anytime soon. And standing there like that wasn't going to help anything.
He went back to his work.
{{I swear…I will have more involving Chid in this fic…I promise!!
He's just being shy right now. ^_^
Okay, now to answer some of my very few reviews.
Feye: Oy, never! I wouldn't kill Dirandau or Chid off……without very good reason…::Evil smirk::
[You just can't trust me, can you? ^_^]
Nah, I don't think I should have Dilly take up the violin. That seems to be a cliché thing, to have characters like him take up that instrument. [I blame it on Phantom of the Opera, I really do.]
Etowato: ::Sighs:: Yeah, I don't think that Allen and Dryden could ever get along….
As for poor Eries…..uh, I don't think she really does much these days.
Dirandau might decide to write his own biography, since he doesn't have his other career to keep him busy. He'll have to do something to keep from losing his mind in Freid.
hehe….and, who here wouldn't love to read one of his books?
Sailor Vega: ::Grins:: Yeah, there need to be more Chid stories.
Although, the way this story is going….I may not really be able to call it a Chid story anymore, unless I can shift it more towards Chid's point of view.
Rrr....okay, whining here...
Is there any way to make FFN stop eating formatting???
I don't do much with it, but it's still annoying me.
Okay….now I'm off to write more for "A Weapon of War."
Happy trails.}}
I've been enjoying myself. Actually found a book on Kendo! ::Celebrates::
[Although, I have to give up getting my katana for awhile…::Sighs:: I guess that's alright. I probably should've been concentrating on getting a shinai first, anyway.]
So, I'm hoping it'll help me get my messy head together, and I won't have to take these little vacations anymore…
Oh…ehe…right…….you came for the fic, and not to hear about me, and my boring little life^_^
I didn't mean to make it seem that writing was Dilly's career in the last chapter. He only wrote one book. Sorry for the confusion on that.
And….I promise, Chid will get more of the spotlight in this fic later on.
::Feels bad that he hasn't gotten much in a fic which is supposed to be his own::
He doesn't really do much in this chapter…::Sighs::
[But, then most of you seem to care a lot about the other characters…so I think you'll forgive me^_^]
On with the fic….Bon Apetite!}}
PART TWO
Complete silence is an eerie thing to hear. They say it doesn't exist….but that's not true. It exists in the homes of the dead, where mourners are afraid to disturb those tired spirits. That is the one last thing they may do for the dead. Allow them some rest if they come back….
Chid stared at the tapestry in front of him. This time was always particularly hard….the anniversary of his father's death, and that horrible attack on Freid.
They'd be mourning back home, as well. Lights would be extinguished in all the houses, to represent all the lives which were lost that day. All lights, except one…that was to represent those few who had survived.
He meditated for hours like that…just sitting…staring. Strengthening his resolve to become a better leader for Freid, to live up to those expectations his father had for him.
A messenger knocked softly on the door, and came in.
Messenger: "Forgive me for disturbing you, your grace…but it's time that you went to the capital building."
Chid nodded, and stood up.
Chid: "Get a carriage ready for me. I'll be down in five minutes."
The men were already in a heated debate.
"It must be done now!"
"Yes….before things get any worse…."
Allen: "You don't understand. If we do that…the results will be catastrophic."
There was much grumbling. Nearly everyone was agreed on this attack….except a few troublemakers.
"No, you don't understand. If we don't do this, the results will be catastrophic. That country is a breeding ground for trouble. They're running out of food. Most of the population is made up women, and the children of those who had been killed….they were never able to learn the skills they needed from their fathers. As a result, Freid is a dangerous nation to let sit by itself."
"Yes, we must go in and take it over!"
"It's plain and simple. We need to take it over, and ensure it's safety."
Allen: "It's not that simple….we need to give the Duke a chance to prove that Freid will stand up on its own…"
"Well, of course *you* wouldn't mind a country being run by a bunch of criminals…you plan on taking office there after this is over?"
Gaddes: "No. He wouldn't even try to run…he'd lose out to all of you…"
Gaddes had come up from his out-post in order to help out here. Even though he was now in charge of Allen's old position, the two were still good friends. They kept in touch, and helped each other out when it was needed.
Allen glared at his former subordinate.
Allen: "Gaddes, please…that's not helping.
He turned back to the others.
Allen: "Freid has done nothing against us…or anyone else, for that matter. You haven't done anything to see what alternatives are available yet. You can't be serious about taking it over."
Chid was ashen faced when he entered the room. No one had told him of this new development.
Chid: "You would destroy my country….without even bothering to tell me?"
"Your Grace..please understand….we are only thinking of how best to keep the peace."
They were so very patronizing. They still viewed Chid as a child…
Chid: "As am I. While you have only to worry about where to send your soldiers and what targets to hit, I must think of the best interests of all of Freid."
He moved closer to the man he was talking with.
Chid: "We desire no troubles with you and yours. We have enough to deal with now….therefore, I implore you, let something be worked out between us."
"Your grace...you don't seem to understand the situation. If we allow Freid to-"
Chid: "You didn't seem much interested in helping it before, when it really needed support. That is why there are such troubles there now. You're not even giving us a chance to-"
"We can't afford to give you that chance."
The statement struck a chord with the present situation. It was true. No one felt that Chid could be trusted as a leader. Even though he'd shown himself to be an excellent ruler, everyone was always apprehensive about following his advice. They were terrified that he'd screw something up, because he was too young to understand.
If only they knew how old he felt…all his experiences dragged on his mind. They must have aged him at least twenty years. He wouldn't be surprised if his hair had started graying already.
Chid: "You can afford to. You are watching Freid closer than the hawks which fly above us. If the situation become worse, you'll be ready to go in and stop the problem before it spreads too far. However, it is entirely unnecessary at the present time."
"We can't do that."
Dryden had been sitting in the background all this time. He was perhaps the only person who had any faith in Chid at all, and he always tried to allow Chid to do everything on his own. However, he could see that Chid was losing this argument, and through no fault of his own.
Dryden: "I find it highly irregular that such a man of high-standing in the military as yourself can find no other strategic alternative. Especially since one of your hobbies is skinning cats."
"Your majesty, this is the only way that we can ensure-"
Dryden: "Nonsense...there's always another way. Duke Freid has been more than patient with you. His ideas hold merit. I suggest that you follow them."
Chid: "Thank you, Asturia. I shall go to Freid presently, and try to repair the situation at hand."
The meeting was adjourned shortly after that. Chid had every intention of fullfilling the promise he had just made, but there was some small delay.
Some feared for Chid's safety. Without him there to lead the people, those who would wish to rebel would have an easy time taking over. Political confusion would ensue.
Therefore, to ensure his security, it was decided that guards be sent to protect those of the government. One person was sent specifically to be Chid's bodyguard. There was only one person they could think of for the job....Allen Schezar. He was one of the best swordsmen in all of Gaea. And, because of how far he was known to follow chivalry, and the fact that he had always seemed eager to help prevent Freid from falling to total destruction, he was perfect for the job.
Allen bid Gaddes a quick farewell. Gaddes wouldn't be back from his port for the next seven months, and Allen would be in Freid indefinitely. There was no telling when they might see each other again.
Allen headed for home. He was given a day to get his affairs in order, and then he had to ship off to Freid indefinitely.
Allen had an easy time of getting his outward affairs in order. He didn't have many social connections these days. It was the affairs of his home he was worried about.
Dirandau definitely wouldn't be happy about this.
The gatekeeper did not greet him. Not that this was anything to fret over. The gatekeeper never said anything to Allen.
Likewise, the maids and the cook, and the groundskeeper….none of them ever said a word to him, except to complain or to ask for their pay.
With a sigh, he thought, :: "Such a lonely life.."::, and pushed it away from his mind.
The house was empty, as usual.
The silence…the way the air hardly moves, for fear of disturbing the dust…All his life, he'd remember that.
All empty houses feel that way.
Some people think that when one lives such a life where one is constantly suffering through some trauma, or everyone is always leaving, that a person can be fine when all that isn't going on. When they're alone. When a quiet calm takes over everything.
But, even rocks covered by a sheet of ice will still remain rough and jagged.
The lights were low in the house. Allen could hardly see where he was walking to. As he headed for the next doorway, he tripped over something.
Allen: "Aya….what is this?
He sat up. Next to his feet was a pair of boots and a few bottles.
::"So, he finally came home…"::
Allen stood up, and brushed himself off. He was thankful for one thing, at least. Now he wouldn't have to waste time looking for Dirandau, and dreading this encounter. There was only one stop Dirandau made after having come home from one of those all-night sprees…..the couch in the parlour. It was such a lovely spot to pass out in.
Sure enough, Dirandau was sprawled out over that couch, his clothes completely wrinkled, his collar all askew. He had with him several papers, and a few books. One covered his face, probably to block out what little light came into the room.
Unlike some people, Dirandau didn't look adorable or harmless while he was sleeping. Even in those dreamless hours, one could tell that he was a killer, a murderer, and one to be feared.
Allen smacked Dirandau across the shoulder. He had long since then realized that being kind and timid when it came to dealing with Dirandau was no way to get anything done. One had to find a balance between being a harsh disciplinarian, and being a molly-coddling caretaker.
Dirandau sat up, ready for a fight.
Dirandau: "Ayaaaa….don't try anything, !#@%....."
He had his fists up in the air, prepared to defend himself.
Dirandau: "You touch me again, and I'll……"
His voice trailed off when he realized it was just Allen.
Dirandau: "Allen, how many time do I have to tell you not to do that anymore??"
He smacked Allen.
Allen just shrugged it off.
Allen: "I see you're as cheerful as ever. No sleep has done you a lot of good once again."
Dirandau whacked Allen across the face with one of his books.
Dirandau: "QUIT TELLING HOW TO LIVE!!!"
Allen rubbed his now reddened cheek.
Allen: "If I didn't, who would?"
Dirandau: "No one, and that's the point."
Dirandau stood up. He began straightening his clothes, and picking up his things.
Dirandau: "And you wonder why I don't like to come back here…"
Allen tried to help pick the things up, but Dirandau just pushed him away.
Dirandau: "Don't bother. I can take care of it."
Allen sighed, and sat back down.
Allen: "So, where were you all this time?"
Dirandau: "That's none of your business!"
Allen: "I was only asking…no need to be so defensive."
Dirandau: "Of course I have to be defensive! Aya….when you're involved, I always have to be defensive…you never leave me alone."
Allen: "You can't blame me for worrying."
Dirandau: "Yes I can. And, I do."
Allen: "Fine, blame me…but cooperate with me."
The two glared at eachother for a moment, and then Dirandau continued with his work. He collected everything, and started for the door.
Dirandau: "I'll be gone tomorrow as well. I tried to sign up for that swordsmanship competition…and they informed me that no member of the Schezar family is allowed to enter it ever again. I've got to find out why."
Allen: "You won't have time for that."
Allen was a little glad that Dirandau wouldn't have time to get to the bottom of that mystery. He wasn't exactly proud of the reason why, and it was all his fault.
Dirandau: "Why do you have to be so thick-headed? I just told you to stop telling me what to do…you can't control my life, so stop trying."
Allen: "It's not my choice this time. I'm being sent out of state for a time. That means that you have to come with me."
Dirandau dropped everything he was carrying.
Dirandau: "What??? A time….how long does that mean?"
Allen: "It could be anywhere from a week to a year…or maybe more…"
Dirandau just stood, staring at him for a bit.
Dirandau: "But…I've just begun…to actually get my life together here…..I've got my contracts…and my everything. You…can't do this…to me…."
Allen: "I'm sorry for your loss, but this is not my choice."
Dirandau: "Oh, yes…not your choice. That's a phrase you're always using. It lets you forget about the fact that you don't want to do what you're doing …"
Allen: "I'm only doing my duty."
Dirandau: "You're only letting them take advantage of you. That's fine if you want to live your life like that, as their little harlot….but now you're ruining my life as well! I'm not going to do this."
Allen: "You have one alternative, Dirandau: Prison. I don't think you want to go there."
Prison would be doubly bad for Dirandau. Asturia still kept some of those prisoners of war locked up…including those sorcerers. They would be happy to see them, that's certain.
Dirandau: "RrrrrrrRR! Tell them you're not going….tell them anything. Just get out of this!!"
Allen: "I'm sorry….there is no possible way."
Dirandau leaned against a wall. He knew there was nothing he could do…not if Allen acted like this. Allen would never even try to get out of this. He'd do exactly as he was told. And Dirandau had to go along with it, no matter what.
::"Chk..…he talks about having no choices…."::
Dirandau: "Do you realize…..this is the end of my career? They'll never hire me again….not after this…"
It had been a long time searching for a career that was right for Dirandau. Three years, at least. Finally, they decided it would be best just to go with his strengths….fire and destruction. He was the leading pyrotechnics engineer in Asturia. Right now, he was getting ready for the next big Asturian celebration. They depended on him to plan out all the fireworks.
Dirandau: "I'll have to tell those contractors I'm leaving."
Allen: "Oh, I can have that taken care of for you. After all, there isn't much time, and you'll probably want to-"
Dirandau: "No! It's my job, I'll take care of it."
This fight was common between these two…it just kept repeating itself over and over. Allen's personality was one that required being able to take care of everything around him. Dirandau was much too independent for someone like that. Increasingly he felt the need to do for himself anything he possibly could, no matter how small.
It was no wonder that the two conflicted so much.
Dirandau: "This will be the last semblance of my career….they won't bother hiring me again…..because…..they can't trust that I'll be there when they need me."
Dirandau sounded quite heartbroken.
This was the only thing he could say that he'd done on his own…and he was good at it. Now he would have to leave it all behind. Just because Allen couldn't stand up to his own people.
Dirandau: "Of all things, I won't let you take that away from me."
Dryden had not been joking about the fact that Eries wanted to see Allen. The two often met together, to talk and make sure the other was alright.
It lifted Eries' spirit's a little just to see him. He was the only other person who had known her sisters well. No one else realized how much she missed them. The emotions were far too well hidden under that emotionless face.
Right now, they were seated across from each other, at a dining room table. She was prattling on and on….and he was just sitting there, staring thoughtfully at the pattern in the wood.
Eries: "You're not even listening to me, are you?"
It was obvious that he wasn't, because he didn't even bother to respond to her enquiry.
Eries: "Allen…?"
Still no response.
She sighed, and stood up.
It was now that Allen decided to notice what was happening.
Allen: "Oh…you're leaving? I should probably go too, anyway…that boat will probably be in the harbour soon, and-"
Eries: "I shouldn't have asked you to come. You're obviously in no condition to be around other people."
Allen: "What do you mean by that?"
She shook her head.
Eries: "I know what's troubling you. The whole royal family knows. And….well, you don't think that the people aren't figuring out what's going on, do you?"
Allen went pale.
Allen: "Then, they've figured out the secret…"
Eries: "Yes, but not the secret you're thinking of."
She sat down as Allen stared quizzically at her.
Eries: "You and Chid look so much alike…if you were the same age, one wouldn't be able to tell you apart."
She wished that he could've figured this out already. There was no easy way to say it.
Eries: "They think your mother had an affair with my father."
She went on to repeat the story that had been concocted. Encya, a wild and incorrigible young woman with absolutely no moral background had somehow managed to woo the upstanding King Aston. Leon found out soon enough, and it drove him mad. That was why he left….to rid himself of his unfaithful wife, and to possibly find another.
It also explained why Allen did not get along with Leon, and why King Aston was so lenient on him in many cases. And why one such as he was able to become a Knight Caeli.
And, of course….it would explain why Allen was such a tom-cat with the ladies…
Oh, how easily those idiots ripped a person's life to shreds with their gossip and their rumors…
Allen grew tired of it, this game. He had been losing for quite some time. The intelligent thing would be to just drop all his cards and quit the game now. But that would be improper. He had tried to leave before, after he thought he'd lost everything. But apparently, he hadn't lost enough to quit the game. They dragged him back. And now they would never let him forget his attempt to leave.
His mind glidded elsewhere.
He thought of his poor, dear mother, lying there as she did all those years ago. Those long, agonizing days….
Along with his grief, he'd taken on his mother's sorrow as well….as if he hoped that in doing so, he could somehow lighten her burden.
For some time, it was just them there, completely alone together.
Encya: "You'll be good, won't you? When I'm gone?"
Allen: "Don't talk so, mother…you'll get better. The doctors say you're doing well…"
That was a lie. Her health was declining fast, and it was definite that she wouldn't last much longer.
But, he was willing to pretend. They could pretend that everything was alright for awhile longer. No one ever has to stop pretending until the problem is completely obvious, until it is too big to hide.
She smiled, and put a gentle hand to the side of his face.
Encya: "You're wonderful…so kind….your father would be proud of you."
He forced himself to smile. That time was when he most hated Leon. He couldn't comprehend why the man had just left them all like that. He was too young to understand any of the reasons why.
Encya: "Just….remember…to be good…."
With that, she dropped off into an unconscious state. He held onto her hand for a few moments more, then placed it on the bed.
It was better that she got some sleep. She could forget her pain in her sleep. Eternal sleep…
She wasn't always a kind woman. Most invalids take on that terrible temperament that makes most people wish to leave them. But he stood up to it. He loved her, and he knew that she needed him.
She was beautiful, both inside and out. There weren't enough words for him to describe how wonderful she was.
And now they would disgrace her, and look well upon his father, who was so far at fault. How cruel….how utterly cruel….
He would've given anything to keep this from happening. Protecting her name was the last thing he'd be able to do for her. But the dead don't depend on reputations.
There were the living to consider. He recalled all those problems that would be caused, if the secret were to be told. It didn't matter how much more Allen had to suffer from those idiots. If Chid could remain untouched by it, then he'd let everything else fall away. Even if it meant letting those who had committed crimes receive no punishment for them, and letting the innocent suffer blindly. There had to be at least one person who would not be cursed, and that would be Chid.
Eries put a hand on his shoulder.
Eries: "I'm sorry, Allen."
But, she wasn't sorry for his pain. She was sorry for what Allen had done to her family. The Schezars and the Astons would forever be intertwined. Allen had tainted them with the same misfortune his family suffered. It was almost as if there were some irrevocable curse upon them all.
And poor Marlene…Allen had taken advantage of her innocence, and placed her under that same curse.
Eries still refused to acknowledge that she was in any way at fault. She could have been happy, had Allen not come along. Instead, she chose to throw everything away…and live the rest of her life, alone, hiding in shame.
Eries still had those precious letters which were sent to her during Marlene's time of greatest trial. Marlene trusted only Eries enough to tell everything to.
Everyone always trusted Eries with their secrets. That cold emotionless mask never prompted any questions which would lead her to tell them anything, and she wasn't fond of talking when it wasn't necessary.
It took Dirandau only five minutes to destroy beyond repair anything that could be considered valuable. That was his usual record.
He went into the building of his contractors, and came out three minutes later…the task was done.
::"Well….at least I broke my record…"::
He had explained everything that was going on. At least, everything that his pride would allow him too. He hadn't mentioned anything about being forced to leave with Allen because he was considered a ward by the government. He said that he simply had a job offer he couldn't pass up.
They gave him their best wishes, and said that they were sad to see him go. But he knew what they were really thinking. They were wondering why they ever hired that 'irresponsible little Zaibach brat,' and wondering why Dirandau hadn't decided to abandon them earlier. They could expect no less from such a traitor.
Just because the war was long gone didn't mean that people didn't still hold to their old hatreds. Dirandau was lucky that this was a place of merchants. The Lady Gold overruled all loyalties to other gods or emotions. Dirandau's talent with destruction, organized or other, was too good for them to pass up. If that weren't so, then he'd never have gained a single contract.
Dirandau sighed. He didn't even know where he was going to. Typical…
He never really was in control of his life, was he? No…and he never would be in the future…
He cringed. He remembered those words Allen had said to him.
"Your future is entirely at your command…"
:: "Chk….Allen….why do you have to lie so much??"::
He couldn't believe he fell for that line. If this was having control over his life, then he wondered what captivity must mean to Allen….being physically bound by chains?
He smirked.
"Maybe it's Fanelia we're going to. I could stand to do a little redecorating for dear old Van."
He sighed. No, no…he couldn't start thinking like that again. If he did, he'd probably slip back into his old habits. And he couldn't afford the trouble.
"They expect me not to kill him now. I've got to do as they expect….it's my responsibility."
He stopped dead in his tracks. How could it be? He was starting to think….like Allen.
::"No…no…..please, no…."::
He couldn't live like that. He wouldn't live like that.
Bowing and scraping to other people, pleading for them to let you go on your way, even ifyou were going somewhere to help them. That just wasn't his style.
And yet….there was that unbending rule.
::"You have no choice."::
It felt like a weight upon his shoulders, that would one day break his back.
What was so horrible about being in denial?
At least when he was in Zaibach, he felt like he was in charge. Even though he probably never really was, he felt like it…and he didn't feel the pain that they caused him. Not like now.
It had been like being in some nice cozy shelter. He was shielded from everything, even those lamentations winds outside. No snow, no rain, no hail, no daggers of precipitation could touch him.
Even if he'd been chained there….he was still protected from things that hurt.
And now, he had been 'saved' from that 'prison.' He had to face all those elements, those things which scarred him, which injured him beyond repair.
He wasn't so certain that he'd make it.
::"Aya…..maybe it's time I go visit my friend at the bar…"::
Yes, his ever faithful friend, who would be waiting for him always. Neither offering advise nor giving words to make him despair, that drink was always there for him…his constant companion in a torrentious world.
He chose a pub at random, and ordered his usual. It didn't matter which pub he chose, he'd been to them all so often that he had a 'usual' at each one.
These were quite helpful institutions. When he ran out of work or other things to do, these places gave him an excuse to stay away from home.
Home…that word was not a word he preferred to use in regards to the Schezar estate.
Although, he didn't exactly mind being called part of the Schezar family. They were so odd, and psychotic…they made him feel almost normal. If he couldn't be considered elite, then he would at least like to feel normal. Not like a freak, or a monster. Not like what everyone else called him.
Seven glasses…then eight…...then ten. And then the bottle was empty.
He picked it up, and stared at it through one eye.
Ten glasses finish a bottle.
13 glasses are guaranteed to make you dead-drunk.
20 are guaranteed to make you dead.
::"And they said I was never good at math.."::
He set the glass down on the table, and began spinning it….spinning…spinning….he wondered where it would stop, where it would end.
::"It's not going anywhere in particular. It just keeps spinning because it has to…I wonder if it even wants to keep spinning like that…"::
He spent an hour like that. Wishing it didn't have to end, hoping that maybe something would happen which would mean he didn't have to leave his life behind.
But, nothing is inevitable, and Dirandau realized that…even through the hazy gossamer curtain of wine.
Dirandau: "I'll be going now….just leave that on my bill…"
He conveniently 'forgot' for the moment that he wouldn't be back later to pay it.
Bartender: "Want me to ring up a carriage for you?"
Dirandau: "Nope…Not going home today….."
The bartender glanced at Dirandau, worried. He had come to know Dirandau well….as well as anyone could know him. He knew the young man was prone to be depressed, as his homelife wasn't the best. And he had heard nothing of the fact that he was leaving the country in less than a day.
He could assume no idea other than that that Dirandau had decided to kill himself.
Bartender: "Why don't you…uh…just stay here for a bit more? And maybe talk?"
Dirandau shook his head.
Dirandau: "No, I don't have time….I'll be late."
The bartender blinked.
::"Cripes…he plans it right down to the minute?"::
Dirandau stood up, and stretched. He nearly toppled over.
Bartender: "I insist that you stay the night here."
Dirandau: "No. I've got to go down to the water…the..uh….whatever it's name is….."
He started straightening his clothes, and picking his things up.
Bartender: "You mean the ocean?"
Dirandau: "Yeah…that's the one."
::"He's going to drown himself….Allen would never forgive me for this…"::
The bartender whispered something to the bouncer, who went into the back room.
Bartender: "Hey…seeing as you're leaving and all….why not have one last farewell drink? On me."
Dirandau: "Oh, alright….."
If he had been in a more cognitive state, he would've known better than to take it. This bartender never gave out anything for free….never.
The bouncer returned with two drinks he had just mixed. Something 'special.' He handed them to Dirandau and the bartender.
Bartender: "Well….cheers.."
Dirandau wasn't in the mood to waste time. He drank his as quickly as possible. He promptly collapsed onto the floor a minute later.
Bouncer: "Will he be alright?"
Bartender: "Oh, of course. He's had it before. It's made to keep unruly drunken customers from being a danger to others. After all, it wouldn't do me any good to have my customers doing anything that'd land them in jail, now would it?"
Those wonderful merchants….always thinking with their wallets.
Bartender: "Just take him in the back. He'll be fine. I'll go find his brother, and tell him that he's here."
The bartender left.
The bouncer did as he was told. He laid Dirandau on a table in the backroom. He was about to lock the door, but something made him hesitate.
Something about the way he looked, lying there….
The bouncer was young. He was practically still a child, but strong…many of these children were strong nowadays. The damage of war always makes its children strong. They have to become that way, in order to survive.
He didn't know much about the war, the source of his strength. Some thought it best not to teach children of those things…not the events, not the people. They thought this would help to prevent more wars. If people didn't know of evil, then how could they commit it?
He didn't know anything about those issues wrapped within layers and layers of other issues, through Dirandau and so many other people suffered to live day to day. He couldn't understand even if someone told him…there was no possible way that he would ever understand.
He took a thick tablecloth, and covered Dirandau with it. They had no blankets, so this would do just as well.
He still questioned whether Dirandau was alright. Maybe he wouldn't wake up.
That's what this man wanted, wasn't it? He wondered what could possibly make a person want to stop living. What could be so horrible, so intolerable? And why were all the older generations so tired?
He sighed, and shut the door. No one would be answering these questions anytime soon. And standing there like that wasn't going to help anything.
He went back to his work.
{{I swear…I will have more involving Chid in this fic…I promise!!
He's just being shy right now. ^_^
Okay, now to answer some of my very few reviews.
Feye: Oy, never! I wouldn't kill Dirandau or Chid off……without very good reason…::Evil smirk::
[You just can't trust me, can you? ^_^]
Nah, I don't think I should have Dilly take up the violin. That seems to be a cliché thing, to have characters like him take up that instrument. [I blame it on Phantom of the Opera, I really do.]
Etowato: ::Sighs:: Yeah, I don't think that Allen and Dryden could ever get along….
As for poor Eries…..uh, I don't think she really does much these days.
Dirandau might decide to write his own biography, since he doesn't have his other career to keep him busy. He'll have to do something to keep from losing his mind in Freid.
hehe….and, who here wouldn't love to read one of his books?
Sailor Vega: ::Grins:: Yeah, there need to be more Chid stories.
Although, the way this story is going….I may not really be able to call it a Chid story anymore, unless I can shift it more towards Chid's point of view.
Rrr....okay, whining here...
Is there any way to make FFN stop eating formatting???
I don't do much with it, but it's still annoying me.
Okay….now I'm off to write more for "A Weapon of War."
Happy trails.}}