Hello, I'm back!! Two whole weeks of nothing! I'm going to take this
opportunity to complete the Rebel King, or else bring myself horribly close
to it's conclusion! ^_^ Merry Christmas, ppls!
An Invitation to Dark Eternity
[pic]
"Certainly not," Hitomi replied scornfully, when Ariel asked if she would like to go down to the Fanelian square. "I cannot abide the commoners."
"Uh.okay, Hitomi, if that's what you want to do," Ariel said, and slunk off, very catlike and hissing in her anger. Jeez! She could at least be nice about it! I can't believe what being engaged to royalty has done to her head! Still, Lord Van said she's been acting very strangely since her illness a few days ago. I guess it'll wear off. I hope. It better, or I may have to help him out and kill her myself!! Still muttering about rude soon-to-be's, the cat-girl moved down the hallway.
Fool, Guaneth thought after her retreating back and ears. You may not understand now what has happened to your thoughtful, sweet little Hitomi, but you will soon, when my reign begins again, and that Dragon is destroyed beneath my claws! I will shed this useless body and regain my own form! Sadness tinged the anger, though only for a moment. Dragon, Dragon, it didn't have to be this way. You knew it. You could have let me. . .no. I cannot think like this and still hope for my revenge.
She (A/N: It's too irritating to have to keep writing she/It or her/Its all the time) strode purposefully down the opposite hallway, wanting to hear the hard echoing of the soles of her shoes, but only the soft, muffled flump of the 'sneakers' the girl Hitomi preferred. Their noise was thoroughly irksome. Guaneth made a mental note to order a new pair of slippers with stiff, wooden soles and heels, so that she could stride about and make as much beautiful noise as she needed. Not only would it destroy the Mortal Hitomi to have to act so differently, to have no control, but it would be easier for her to be noticed.
The 'sneakers' had a purpose, too, though. True to their name, 'sneakers' could allow their wearer to 'sneak' down a hallway in the dark of the night, and not be heard. Guaneth battled with the possibilities in her mind, even as she bent to adjust a vase of white flowers. As one of her fingers accidentally touched a petal, it withered, and bent, and melted into ashes.
"Curse it!" she swore, and moved on before anyone came.
*******
"Who are you?" Hitomi demanded, at the flickering shadow before her. Resting in intervals of nothingness and darkness, the only thing keeping her from going insane was the thin thread of hope that perhaps, just perhaps, Van would realize and they would be reunited again. Now, seeing things, she sighed and decided perhaps it was too late.
"I am what once was," a woman's voice, young, strong, echoing throughout the darkened limbo. "I don't quite know myself who I am, all but that I am what once was."
"Uh. . ." Hitomi said, "you'll forgive me if I don't understand. . .but. . .I've spent roughly who knows how many hours in here and my brain's a little foggy. . ."
"I have lived here for centuries on end. You, Hitomi, you seem pure of heart and quite earnest in your desire to return to your Lord Fanel."
"Oh, I'd give almost anything! Have you come to help me out of here?" Hitomi cried, hoping against hope.
"Alas, if I myself could find a way to regain control of that which has invaded you, then perhaps, yes. Unfortunately for the both of us, I believe we're trapped."
The shape, the shadow, grew taller and grew more human. Slowly, Hitomi was able to distinguish the young figure from the shifting patterns around them.
"Who-"
"As I have already said, I do not know myself. You are the Lady Hitomi, the weapon of a greater plot to destroy what you love, and what I love."
"Huh?" Hitomi said. "You mean Van? They wouldn't!" But she knew, having already seen a war, that they definitely would.
"It is the Dragon," the girl said, taking a seat in what seemed to be nothing. She folded her bluish gown beneath her, her form fading and reappearing with the sunlight and darkness. "My Ryuu. Dear, sweet Ryuu."
"I don't understand."
"Most of us don't," the girl said, turning and looking amazingly like Celena, with the exception that her eyes were deep purple, and Celena's were Schezar blue. "That is what makes us human."
I think I'm stuck down here with a loon. . . Hitomi thought, with a sinking feeling deep in what she thought was her stomach.
Do you want to know what happened to this tormented spirit? the girl said softly.
No. . .could you tell me? I mean, I think we're going to be stuck down here for a lot longer. . .so why not pass the time? Hitomi said, beginning to edge away nervously.
I can't tell you. But. . .perhaps. . .I could show you? Hitomi gasped, falling backward, arms flailing, body twisting, and suddenly, she was no more, just a background on the scene before her-
*******
Good morning, my Lord. . .
Good morning, G'eneth. Come now, have a seat. I have much to discuss with you.
My lord?
She took a seat, this slender, lithe girl of eighteen, with silvery hair cascading in moonlight curls down her thin back, and scrutinized her Lord suspiciously, wondering what on earth he could be planning. She leaned down, her elbows resting on her knees, and lowered her gaze demurely.
That young soldier. Ryuu, is it?
Yes, my Lord. She was startled, but she did not yet look up, a slow flush invading the snow-pale cheeks.
He will grow into a fine young man, with time.
Uh.Yes, my Lord. Now she glanced up. Her Lord was eyeing her with something quite like hunger. She began to feel uneasy, and the well- trained muscles beneath the thinness tensed.
Well, that isn't what I wanted to discuss with you. You are, after all, of age. As a young lady in my court, I cannot allow you to go unmarried for another few months. I've only noticed that Ryuu looking at you. He wouldn't make a very good husband, always running off to fight in the next war. Quite ruthless, that one.
Yes, Lord.
Well. Well, well, well. I've been watching you- here the uneasiness and alarm soared, and her muscles ached at being held tight for so long. And you seem quite ready to be married to someone.
Oh, no, Lord! she almost glared at him, then caught herself. This man, the nerve of him! She had only served in his court for a year! Most ladies were married around their middle twenties!
Ah, yes. He rubbed his eyes, seeming weary. Well, the matter is, G'eneth, that I am in a lot of trouble with the King of N'sayen. I owe him some things-quite a lot of things. . .
With dawning horror, G'eneth slowly realized. . .
I owe him seven hundred thousand gold coins, the Lord of Fay'cal said, finally, even as she recoiled from him. Look here, G'eneth. He's agreed to overlook that as long as I give him a maid from my court in marriage. He specially wanted you.
You wouldn't! she gasped. My Lord, he's more than five times my age!
I can't do anything about it, he growled, suddenly menacing. I've been terribly lenient with you, G'eneth. Perhaps a bit too much. But there is one thing that you must understand. I alone am King here in Fay'cal. I will say what goes and what does not. Now, if you will leave.
G'eneth stood and waiting until he had turned from her before shooting a look of absolute hate at his back.
********
. . .
. . .
From the time that she had slept, until she woke again, Guaneth had not been idle. She woke ready for action, yet, oddly saddened. Her only thoughts were of the Dragon. Again, the thought came. Dragon, Dragon, it didn't have to be this way. You knew it then, and you must know it now. But it's too late. . .it's too late. . . Guaneth stretched, turning onto her side.
Sleep will wash this all away. . .
. . .
. . .
*******
She waited, and thought, and wept, and eventually, came up with a plan. Well, several plans. The first: Commit hara-kiri and die with some honor. The second, run away. The third, marry Ryuu and run away. The fourth, do as her lord said. The fifth . .the fifth was the best of all. As the daughter of a warrior, her sense of justice and honor was so strong that to defend herself seem the like the best option.
She would kill her Lord of Fay'cal.
G'eneth thought, and plotted, until she finally found the seams of a good plan. She would pretend to agree. In another month, a few weeks before the wedding, she would approach her lord in the dead of the night and destroy him for the mistakes he had made.
It seemed like a good plan. It was a good plan. Her Lord called her in the next day.
Have you decided? he asked, gently. She understood that he did not care at all about what happened to her.
Yes, my Lord, she said softly, in a sugary voice tinged with danger. I will marry the King of N'sayen.
Oh, how she hated him! Her hands trembled, longing to clench themselves into fists. How odd, that only a week ago he had been her Lord, to die for and to forever worship as the true King of Fay'cal. How odd, that now, at the slightest notice, she was ready to kill him. She had her doubts, of course. How could she ever succeed? Yet, she would not be the first suspect. The nobles serving in his court would be the ones first accused. They might even arrest that corpulent one, Givar. He certainly would deserve it! Trying to assault her her first week serving her Lord! Thank the gods that Ryuu had been there, a man with a sense of justice almost as strong as her own.
She allowed herself to picture that face, shaped more by bone than by flesh, straight, thick eyebrows, strong, scruffy young chin and cropped blue-black locks falling over tanned skin. A true Warrior if she ever saw one. He was born in battle, sprung from the blood of those dead, wounded and dying, the scourge of all fallen warriors upon the battlefield, truly, it was he who was to avenge those killed. He lived when fighting, fighting to live. Were it not for his courage, the Lord would not have won half the wars he initiated. And yet, the King of Fay'cal refused to acknowledge the young man. It was unfair, it was unjust, it was without honor, but Ryuu never complained. He never complained.
An admirable soldier, Ryuu. He would always be loyal, no matter how unfairly he was treated. Even in death, he would be loyal. He would guard his Lord forever. A week ago, G'eneth, too, would have been just as loyal, but this, this was the ultimate betrayal. She had come to Fay'cal hoping to seek sanctuary from pursuing suitors, with the word of the Lord himself that she would not be wed without her own permission, and, when she was wed, it would be to one she had chosen. . .
In a sense, she had given her permission. But she had not ever been allowed to choose. Oh, my Lord, you shall pay for this. . .! And dearly!
My dear girl, are you alright? her Lord said, looking with false concern into her dreaming, gloating face.
Oh! Yes, I was only thinking. . . G'eneth lowered her eyes modestly, so that he would not see the malicious glitter. Of my future. As all soon-to-be-brides are.
Ah, yes. I want to thank you for taking it so well, G'eneth. Thank you. You don't know what this means to me. You may go now.
She bumped, quite by accident, into Ryuu as she strode down the hallway.
Oh! she gasped, falling backwards just as a strong hand grasped her elbow and pulled her upright again.
I'm sorry, Ryuu said, bowing his head slightly. I wasn't watching where I was going.
Oh, no, she said, quick to apologize as well, I wasn't paying any attention. I'm sorry.
Were you just speaking to the Lord? Ryuu asked, steadying her before he let go of her elbow. G'eneth was almost sad to let his warmth leave her.
Yes, she said. Yes, I was.
You seem angry, Gwen, he added, studying her face carefully. Is everything alright?
Oh, of course, she said, her cheeks flushing. I didn't think it showed that badly, though. . .
What showed?
Don't worry about me, you've got yourself to worry about! Don't get yourself killed during training or anything, understand?
I'm the best swordsman there! Ryuu griped, sounding pained. Gee, Gwen. If your father was such a wonderful swordsman, then why are you a Court maiden? You should be out there, killing people with the rest of our regiment! With me! We'd make a good team, wouldn't we, Gwen?
His words hung in the air. 'With me! We'd make a good team, wouldn't we, Gwen?'
G'eneth was startled. She smiled, and nodded.
He grinned, winking. But enough about that. I'll be seeing you, Gwen. Have a good night, now.
Where were you going? she demanded, then flushed and looked away. Of course, it's not any of my business, but I would appreciate if you told me.
Well, I was going to see the Lord about some personal business, Ryuu said, shifting his weight uncomfortably. I'll be seeing you, he repeated, and all but fled down the hallway.
Odd. I wonder what he's up to? she thought, and continued down the hall in the direction she had been heading.
********
Van sat across from Ariel, his brow furrowed, his arms folded as she explained the circumstances.
"So you're saying. . .Hitomi acted. . ." he paused, and quirked an eyebrow at her. " 'Snooty?'"
"She practically snapped at me, Lord Van," Ariel said. "She hasn't done that, not since we first met!"
"I think she's just going through a phase," Van said. "I'm never going to understand her. But maybe it's a good thing."
"Oh, Lord Van, why won't you listen? There's something horribly, horribly wrong with Hitomi! You trust her too much! Please, at least check on her!"
"Ariel, if I'm going to marry someone, don't you think I ought to trust them before I propose?"
Ariel frowned, her tail standing on end as strands of pink hair flew about her in disarray. Ruku, watching from far away, thought she had never looked more beautiful.
"I guess there isn't anything I can say to change your mind," she said, furious. "Lord Van. . ."
"Yes, Ariel?"
"Please, please be careful. Please."
"I will, Ariel, don't worry!" Van sounded annoyed. Ariel grinned. Gee! I forgot he's only seventeen after all! Wow! And I'm fifteen? How can that be right?
(^_^ Gee, Merle. . .better check again! If you're forgetting so early, how can you be sure you're actually that young?)
*******
Gwen.
Yes, M'llei? G'eneth turned to the red-haired Court maiden leaning on the wall beside her.
How come you've got your eye on that Ryuu all of a sudden?
I do not have my eye on him! Gwen said. She fluffed her hair carelessly. Besides. I'm getting married in a month.
To that fat ole fool! M'llei scoffed. I get it, though. You could try and have some fun before you get to him. Ryuu Urushi isn't bad- looking at all! And, he's been watching you!
He has? Gwen said eagerly. She gasped, and turned her back on her friend. Oh, come on, M'llei! I don't like him at all! He's got that ugly beard!
I'll be if you tell him to shave it off he will, M'llei giggled. He likes you a lot, that Ryuu.
What could he see in me? Gwen grumbled. I'm too thin by far, look like a stick, have absolutely no figure-
You're very beautiful in his eyesh. Not only that, but you're clever. And good when you're fenshing. He likesh you-hic-I can tell! M'llei said. She smiled lopsidedly, and took another sip of wine.
How many of those have you had? G'eneth demanded, snatching the goblet away from her friend.
Eight-hic-I think. I'm getting myshelf ready for Efr'm-hic-you know.
Oh, do stop it! You're going to-Oh! Uh, hello, Ryuu. . .
She froze as the soldier came up to her, and tucked the wine goblet securely back into her friend's hands.
Aren't you just a bit young to be drinking that much, miss? he said, taking the goblet from M'llei.
Hello, Ryuu, she said dreamily. Oh, look. There'sh Efr'm. Shee you in a-hic-bit, ne?
Lovely party, isn't it? Ryuu said, taking M'llei's place on the wall. G'eneth nodded numbly.
Oh, yes, of course. I rather like those plants you brought in from the south.
Oh, those? he seemed to stiffen. Yes. Those are presents from the King of N'sayen. For your wedding.
Ryuu-
He looked at her, sadly, and so charmingly. I asked the Lord today if I could marry you. Do you know what he said?
She could only shake her head in stunned silence.
He told me I was worthless. That you would never want me. If I ever even came near you before the wedding, you'd have my head. He looked at her shyly. Is that true, Gwen? You're getting married to the King of N'sayen?
His eyes begged her to deny it.
I am, she said, and looked away, feeling her own goblet shaking in her hands. It slipped, and fell to the ground. Ryuu ducked down and retrieved it.
Well! he said, in too-bright tones. I see.
Ryuu-
Tell me, Gwen. Did you agree? Or did he threaten you with something?
I have nothing in this world, G'eneth whispered. What could he threaten me with? He knows that death is a worthy and honorable escape.
Honor, Ryuu said. He looked into the depths of his drink. He turned away. It was nice to know, Gwen, that you'd still have me. Damn me for a fool. Had I asked sooner-
Don't- she said. It wasn't your fault. I. . .never knew. . .
I don't suppose there's any way I can get you out of this mess, is there?
You could kiss me, G'eneth said. Just on the cheek. Before anyone notices.
He did so, quietly and solemnly, without any trace of emotion, his hands gripping hers, but only for a moment. He pulled away, and suddenly, Gwen felt her soul shattering.
Marry a good girl, Ryuu, she said softly. One who will make you happy.
She whirled and stepped coldly away, before she could say anything else that might betray her.
********
Wandering the halls, my dear? it was a rich, unctuous voice, much like a fruit rotting.
Master Givar, she said, disgusted though she did not show it. He bowed, taking her thin, smooth hand with one fleshy, ring-studded paw and kissed it graciously. When he finished, she snatched her hand behind her back and rubbed it, feeling queasy, on the back of her gown. What might you be doing up here yourself? she demanded, her muscles tensing once more. There wasn't anyone to watch. If he even tried to pounce on her, she would give him a lesson he'd never forget.
I came to give you my best wishes for the wedding, of course, he said, in wide-eyed innocence that didn't fool her one jot.
Well, thank you, she said, bowing low in mock respect. Somehow, his faulty eyes missed the grimace of distaste upon her features. And goodnight, Master Givar.
*******
She slammed into Ryuu, for the second time that week, and again completely by accident. As before, he grabbed her elbow before she could fall and jerked her upright.
Goodness, Miss. You ought to watch where you're going in the future- he stopped, noticing who he had impacted with. Gwen?
Good night, Ryuu, she said, lifting the mask of indifference, and trying to push past.
Good night, Gwen.
She could feel his eyes on her for some time after, and fought the urge to dash sobbing into her chamber. As the daughter of a Warrior, she would walk away with pride. Hardships faced on the battlefield were by far greater than heartbreak. And so, she turned down the hallway and continued on to her bedroom, her steps and words ringing in her ears. After two nighttime encounters, she was loathe to bump into anything else that might tear her heart to pieces.
*********
"Hey, sleepy," Van said. "Glad to see you're awake again."
"Oh! Hello, Van," she said absently. "You haven't seen Ariel, have you?"
"Yes, but-"
"I wanted to apologize," she continued, dazedly ignoring him. "I acted quite horribly earlier."
"I'll tell her, then," Van said. "You aren't to move until Merla says so. You've got at least two more days, and then you should be alright."
"Oh, but Van," she pouted, and turned from him, folding her arms. "It's so dreadful, stuffed up in here and-"
Hitomi doesn't complain often. I wonder if Ariel was right?
"Don't worry about it. When you get better, you and I can go somewhere. Or, maybe I could send you on a nice vacation where it's safe."
"Don't, Van," she said, her voice going softer. "I like it here, with you. . ."
********
I'll go in your place, Gwen, if he means that much to you, M'llei offered. G'eneth shook her head, her silver curls, plaited with bells, jingling.
You can't. Would you?
We look the same, you know. We've got the same silverish hair- mine's a bit more yellow, mind, but I doubt King whoever-he-is won't notice or remember. Our eyes are both purplish too.though mine are lighter than yours. Heck, no one would know the difference if you just loaned me a gown of yours for the wedding.
That's not what I meant.
Oh, I know, giving up my young life to live with an old toad. Moonshine, Gwen, that is the life for me! Riches, beautiful things, and for as long as I live, a loving husband and the comfort of the upper classes! You'd be doing me a favor!
M'llei, you shouldn't do this.
Why not?
I don't know. It just. . .doesn't seem right.
Look here, Gwen. Ryuu'll marry you, and then all you have to worry about is him calling you G'eneth in public.
Not that. I mean, why would the King of N'sayen himself want me? Exactly what have I done that would bring my name to his ears? What if he wants revenge, on my father, or perhaps the mother I never knew? G'eneth hugged her knees to her chest, wondering.
Then I'll suffer the consequences. Come on, Gwen. Please!! If it's really that bad, then maybe we could switch again, after a few days?
M'llei had to plead and bargain, but in the end, that is exactly what they did.
********
Guaneth swept along furiously, glancing in the mirror occasionally, only to be greeted by the silver-haired maiden she had long forgotten.
"Curse it!" she swore again, for the second time that day, and scrambled out of the mirror's path. No matter who's body she wore, the reflection in a pure-crafted mirror was always the same: A young girl, dressed in the manner of a court lady, her silver hair plaited with golden bells, and a slightly-bearded soldier standing behind her, one hand, fondly reassuring, on her shoulder. A memory of a past, glorious age, but that was all it was. A memory.
It didn't have to be this way. . .
Well? What did you all think? I'm on page TWO HUNDRED in microsoft word. Isn't that GREAT? I NEVER thought I'd write something this long!! ^_^ Suggestions for the next chapter are welcome. I'm perhaps thinking of more in-depth descriptions of this G'eneth, less of the real world, and then, suddenly, catastrophe strikes when Guanie decides to make her move! ^_^ Poor Van! She's going to attack him with Hitomi, and he'll be too confused to realize, but-aha! Something's going to happen! ^_^ Until then, this is DragonSun! See ya later! And something is wrong with spellcheck. It didn't pick up Guanie, G'eneth, Gwen, Hitomi, Gaddis, Merla, or M'llei, and even not Ryuu!
*grabs laptop and flies off into the sunset* Fading echo: Damned sunlight! Gets in my eyes!! Ja ne! (^_^)
An Invitation to Dark Eternity
[pic]
"Certainly not," Hitomi replied scornfully, when Ariel asked if she would like to go down to the Fanelian square. "I cannot abide the commoners."
"Uh.okay, Hitomi, if that's what you want to do," Ariel said, and slunk off, very catlike and hissing in her anger. Jeez! She could at least be nice about it! I can't believe what being engaged to royalty has done to her head! Still, Lord Van said she's been acting very strangely since her illness a few days ago. I guess it'll wear off. I hope. It better, or I may have to help him out and kill her myself!! Still muttering about rude soon-to-be's, the cat-girl moved down the hallway.
Fool, Guaneth thought after her retreating back and ears. You may not understand now what has happened to your thoughtful, sweet little Hitomi, but you will soon, when my reign begins again, and that Dragon is destroyed beneath my claws! I will shed this useless body and regain my own form! Sadness tinged the anger, though only for a moment. Dragon, Dragon, it didn't have to be this way. You knew it. You could have let me. . .no. I cannot think like this and still hope for my revenge.
She (A/N: It's too irritating to have to keep writing she/It or her/Its all the time) strode purposefully down the opposite hallway, wanting to hear the hard echoing of the soles of her shoes, but only the soft, muffled flump of the 'sneakers' the girl Hitomi preferred. Their noise was thoroughly irksome. Guaneth made a mental note to order a new pair of slippers with stiff, wooden soles and heels, so that she could stride about and make as much beautiful noise as she needed. Not only would it destroy the Mortal Hitomi to have to act so differently, to have no control, but it would be easier for her to be noticed.
The 'sneakers' had a purpose, too, though. True to their name, 'sneakers' could allow their wearer to 'sneak' down a hallway in the dark of the night, and not be heard. Guaneth battled with the possibilities in her mind, even as she bent to adjust a vase of white flowers. As one of her fingers accidentally touched a petal, it withered, and bent, and melted into ashes.
"Curse it!" she swore, and moved on before anyone came.
*******
"Who are you?" Hitomi demanded, at the flickering shadow before her. Resting in intervals of nothingness and darkness, the only thing keeping her from going insane was the thin thread of hope that perhaps, just perhaps, Van would realize and they would be reunited again. Now, seeing things, she sighed and decided perhaps it was too late.
"I am what once was," a woman's voice, young, strong, echoing throughout the darkened limbo. "I don't quite know myself who I am, all but that I am what once was."
"Uh. . ." Hitomi said, "you'll forgive me if I don't understand. . .but. . .I've spent roughly who knows how many hours in here and my brain's a little foggy. . ."
"I have lived here for centuries on end. You, Hitomi, you seem pure of heart and quite earnest in your desire to return to your Lord Fanel."
"Oh, I'd give almost anything! Have you come to help me out of here?" Hitomi cried, hoping against hope.
"Alas, if I myself could find a way to regain control of that which has invaded you, then perhaps, yes. Unfortunately for the both of us, I believe we're trapped."
The shape, the shadow, grew taller and grew more human. Slowly, Hitomi was able to distinguish the young figure from the shifting patterns around them.
"Who-"
"As I have already said, I do not know myself. You are the Lady Hitomi, the weapon of a greater plot to destroy what you love, and what I love."
"Huh?" Hitomi said. "You mean Van? They wouldn't!" But she knew, having already seen a war, that they definitely would.
"It is the Dragon," the girl said, taking a seat in what seemed to be nothing. She folded her bluish gown beneath her, her form fading and reappearing with the sunlight and darkness. "My Ryuu. Dear, sweet Ryuu."
"I don't understand."
"Most of us don't," the girl said, turning and looking amazingly like Celena, with the exception that her eyes were deep purple, and Celena's were Schezar blue. "That is what makes us human."
I think I'm stuck down here with a loon. . . Hitomi thought, with a sinking feeling deep in what she thought was her stomach.
Do you want to know what happened to this tormented spirit? the girl said softly.
No. . .could you tell me? I mean, I think we're going to be stuck down here for a lot longer. . .so why not pass the time? Hitomi said, beginning to edge away nervously.
I can't tell you. But. . .perhaps. . .I could show you? Hitomi gasped, falling backward, arms flailing, body twisting, and suddenly, she was no more, just a background on the scene before her-
*******
Good morning, my Lord. . .
Good morning, G'eneth. Come now, have a seat. I have much to discuss with you.
My lord?
She took a seat, this slender, lithe girl of eighteen, with silvery hair cascading in moonlight curls down her thin back, and scrutinized her Lord suspiciously, wondering what on earth he could be planning. She leaned down, her elbows resting on her knees, and lowered her gaze demurely.
That young soldier. Ryuu, is it?
Yes, my Lord. She was startled, but she did not yet look up, a slow flush invading the snow-pale cheeks.
He will grow into a fine young man, with time.
Uh.Yes, my Lord. Now she glanced up. Her Lord was eyeing her with something quite like hunger. She began to feel uneasy, and the well- trained muscles beneath the thinness tensed.
Well, that isn't what I wanted to discuss with you. You are, after all, of age. As a young lady in my court, I cannot allow you to go unmarried for another few months. I've only noticed that Ryuu looking at you. He wouldn't make a very good husband, always running off to fight in the next war. Quite ruthless, that one.
Yes, Lord.
Well. Well, well, well. I've been watching you- here the uneasiness and alarm soared, and her muscles ached at being held tight for so long. And you seem quite ready to be married to someone.
Oh, no, Lord! she almost glared at him, then caught herself. This man, the nerve of him! She had only served in his court for a year! Most ladies were married around their middle twenties!
Ah, yes. He rubbed his eyes, seeming weary. Well, the matter is, G'eneth, that I am in a lot of trouble with the King of N'sayen. I owe him some things-quite a lot of things. . .
With dawning horror, G'eneth slowly realized. . .
I owe him seven hundred thousand gold coins, the Lord of Fay'cal said, finally, even as she recoiled from him. Look here, G'eneth. He's agreed to overlook that as long as I give him a maid from my court in marriage. He specially wanted you.
You wouldn't! she gasped. My Lord, he's more than five times my age!
I can't do anything about it, he growled, suddenly menacing. I've been terribly lenient with you, G'eneth. Perhaps a bit too much. But there is one thing that you must understand. I alone am King here in Fay'cal. I will say what goes and what does not. Now, if you will leave.
G'eneth stood and waiting until he had turned from her before shooting a look of absolute hate at his back.
********
. . .
. . .
From the time that she had slept, until she woke again, Guaneth had not been idle. She woke ready for action, yet, oddly saddened. Her only thoughts were of the Dragon. Again, the thought came. Dragon, Dragon, it didn't have to be this way. You knew it then, and you must know it now. But it's too late. . .it's too late. . . Guaneth stretched, turning onto her side.
Sleep will wash this all away. . .
. . .
. . .
*******
She waited, and thought, and wept, and eventually, came up with a plan. Well, several plans. The first: Commit hara-kiri and die with some honor. The second, run away. The third, marry Ryuu and run away. The fourth, do as her lord said. The fifth . .the fifth was the best of all. As the daughter of a warrior, her sense of justice and honor was so strong that to defend herself seem the like the best option.
She would kill her Lord of Fay'cal.
G'eneth thought, and plotted, until she finally found the seams of a good plan. She would pretend to agree. In another month, a few weeks before the wedding, she would approach her lord in the dead of the night and destroy him for the mistakes he had made.
It seemed like a good plan. It was a good plan. Her Lord called her in the next day.
Have you decided? he asked, gently. She understood that he did not care at all about what happened to her.
Yes, my Lord, she said softly, in a sugary voice tinged with danger. I will marry the King of N'sayen.
Oh, how she hated him! Her hands trembled, longing to clench themselves into fists. How odd, that only a week ago he had been her Lord, to die for and to forever worship as the true King of Fay'cal. How odd, that now, at the slightest notice, she was ready to kill him. She had her doubts, of course. How could she ever succeed? Yet, she would not be the first suspect. The nobles serving in his court would be the ones first accused. They might even arrest that corpulent one, Givar. He certainly would deserve it! Trying to assault her her first week serving her Lord! Thank the gods that Ryuu had been there, a man with a sense of justice almost as strong as her own.
She allowed herself to picture that face, shaped more by bone than by flesh, straight, thick eyebrows, strong, scruffy young chin and cropped blue-black locks falling over tanned skin. A true Warrior if she ever saw one. He was born in battle, sprung from the blood of those dead, wounded and dying, the scourge of all fallen warriors upon the battlefield, truly, it was he who was to avenge those killed. He lived when fighting, fighting to live. Were it not for his courage, the Lord would not have won half the wars he initiated. And yet, the King of Fay'cal refused to acknowledge the young man. It was unfair, it was unjust, it was without honor, but Ryuu never complained. He never complained.
An admirable soldier, Ryuu. He would always be loyal, no matter how unfairly he was treated. Even in death, he would be loyal. He would guard his Lord forever. A week ago, G'eneth, too, would have been just as loyal, but this, this was the ultimate betrayal. She had come to Fay'cal hoping to seek sanctuary from pursuing suitors, with the word of the Lord himself that she would not be wed without her own permission, and, when she was wed, it would be to one she had chosen. . .
In a sense, she had given her permission. But she had not ever been allowed to choose. Oh, my Lord, you shall pay for this. . .! And dearly!
My dear girl, are you alright? her Lord said, looking with false concern into her dreaming, gloating face.
Oh! Yes, I was only thinking. . . G'eneth lowered her eyes modestly, so that he would not see the malicious glitter. Of my future. As all soon-to-be-brides are.
Ah, yes. I want to thank you for taking it so well, G'eneth. Thank you. You don't know what this means to me. You may go now.
She bumped, quite by accident, into Ryuu as she strode down the hallway.
Oh! she gasped, falling backwards just as a strong hand grasped her elbow and pulled her upright again.
I'm sorry, Ryuu said, bowing his head slightly. I wasn't watching where I was going.
Oh, no, she said, quick to apologize as well, I wasn't paying any attention. I'm sorry.
Were you just speaking to the Lord? Ryuu asked, steadying her before he let go of her elbow. G'eneth was almost sad to let his warmth leave her.
Yes, she said. Yes, I was.
You seem angry, Gwen, he added, studying her face carefully. Is everything alright?
Oh, of course, she said, her cheeks flushing. I didn't think it showed that badly, though. . .
What showed?
Don't worry about me, you've got yourself to worry about! Don't get yourself killed during training or anything, understand?
I'm the best swordsman there! Ryuu griped, sounding pained. Gee, Gwen. If your father was such a wonderful swordsman, then why are you a Court maiden? You should be out there, killing people with the rest of our regiment! With me! We'd make a good team, wouldn't we, Gwen?
His words hung in the air. 'With me! We'd make a good team, wouldn't we, Gwen?'
G'eneth was startled. She smiled, and nodded.
He grinned, winking. But enough about that. I'll be seeing you, Gwen. Have a good night, now.
Where were you going? she demanded, then flushed and looked away. Of course, it's not any of my business, but I would appreciate if you told me.
Well, I was going to see the Lord about some personal business, Ryuu said, shifting his weight uncomfortably. I'll be seeing you, he repeated, and all but fled down the hallway.
Odd. I wonder what he's up to? she thought, and continued down the hall in the direction she had been heading.
********
Van sat across from Ariel, his brow furrowed, his arms folded as she explained the circumstances.
"So you're saying. . .Hitomi acted. . ." he paused, and quirked an eyebrow at her. " 'Snooty?'"
"She practically snapped at me, Lord Van," Ariel said. "She hasn't done that, not since we first met!"
"I think she's just going through a phase," Van said. "I'm never going to understand her. But maybe it's a good thing."
"Oh, Lord Van, why won't you listen? There's something horribly, horribly wrong with Hitomi! You trust her too much! Please, at least check on her!"
"Ariel, if I'm going to marry someone, don't you think I ought to trust them before I propose?"
Ariel frowned, her tail standing on end as strands of pink hair flew about her in disarray. Ruku, watching from far away, thought she had never looked more beautiful.
"I guess there isn't anything I can say to change your mind," she said, furious. "Lord Van. . ."
"Yes, Ariel?"
"Please, please be careful. Please."
"I will, Ariel, don't worry!" Van sounded annoyed. Ariel grinned. Gee! I forgot he's only seventeen after all! Wow! And I'm fifteen? How can that be right?
(^_^ Gee, Merle. . .better check again! If you're forgetting so early, how can you be sure you're actually that young?)
*******
Gwen.
Yes, M'llei? G'eneth turned to the red-haired Court maiden leaning on the wall beside her.
How come you've got your eye on that Ryuu all of a sudden?
I do not have my eye on him! Gwen said. She fluffed her hair carelessly. Besides. I'm getting married in a month.
To that fat ole fool! M'llei scoffed. I get it, though. You could try and have some fun before you get to him. Ryuu Urushi isn't bad- looking at all! And, he's been watching you!
He has? Gwen said eagerly. She gasped, and turned her back on her friend. Oh, come on, M'llei! I don't like him at all! He's got that ugly beard!
I'll be if you tell him to shave it off he will, M'llei giggled. He likes you a lot, that Ryuu.
What could he see in me? Gwen grumbled. I'm too thin by far, look like a stick, have absolutely no figure-
You're very beautiful in his eyesh. Not only that, but you're clever. And good when you're fenshing. He likesh you-hic-I can tell! M'llei said. She smiled lopsidedly, and took another sip of wine.
How many of those have you had? G'eneth demanded, snatching the goblet away from her friend.
Eight-hic-I think. I'm getting myshelf ready for Efr'm-hic-you know.
Oh, do stop it! You're going to-Oh! Uh, hello, Ryuu. . .
She froze as the soldier came up to her, and tucked the wine goblet securely back into her friend's hands.
Aren't you just a bit young to be drinking that much, miss? he said, taking the goblet from M'llei.
Hello, Ryuu, she said dreamily. Oh, look. There'sh Efr'm. Shee you in a-hic-bit, ne?
Lovely party, isn't it? Ryuu said, taking M'llei's place on the wall. G'eneth nodded numbly.
Oh, yes, of course. I rather like those plants you brought in from the south.
Oh, those? he seemed to stiffen. Yes. Those are presents from the King of N'sayen. For your wedding.
Ryuu-
He looked at her, sadly, and so charmingly. I asked the Lord today if I could marry you. Do you know what he said?
She could only shake her head in stunned silence.
He told me I was worthless. That you would never want me. If I ever even came near you before the wedding, you'd have my head. He looked at her shyly. Is that true, Gwen? You're getting married to the King of N'sayen?
His eyes begged her to deny it.
I am, she said, and looked away, feeling her own goblet shaking in her hands. It slipped, and fell to the ground. Ryuu ducked down and retrieved it.
Well! he said, in too-bright tones. I see.
Ryuu-
Tell me, Gwen. Did you agree? Or did he threaten you with something?
I have nothing in this world, G'eneth whispered. What could he threaten me with? He knows that death is a worthy and honorable escape.
Honor, Ryuu said. He looked into the depths of his drink. He turned away. It was nice to know, Gwen, that you'd still have me. Damn me for a fool. Had I asked sooner-
Don't- she said. It wasn't your fault. I. . .never knew. . .
I don't suppose there's any way I can get you out of this mess, is there?
You could kiss me, G'eneth said. Just on the cheek. Before anyone notices.
He did so, quietly and solemnly, without any trace of emotion, his hands gripping hers, but only for a moment. He pulled away, and suddenly, Gwen felt her soul shattering.
Marry a good girl, Ryuu, she said softly. One who will make you happy.
She whirled and stepped coldly away, before she could say anything else that might betray her.
********
Wandering the halls, my dear? it was a rich, unctuous voice, much like a fruit rotting.
Master Givar, she said, disgusted though she did not show it. He bowed, taking her thin, smooth hand with one fleshy, ring-studded paw and kissed it graciously. When he finished, she snatched her hand behind her back and rubbed it, feeling queasy, on the back of her gown. What might you be doing up here yourself? she demanded, her muscles tensing once more. There wasn't anyone to watch. If he even tried to pounce on her, she would give him a lesson he'd never forget.
I came to give you my best wishes for the wedding, of course, he said, in wide-eyed innocence that didn't fool her one jot.
Well, thank you, she said, bowing low in mock respect. Somehow, his faulty eyes missed the grimace of distaste upon her features. And goodnight, Master Givar.
*******
She slammed into Ryuu, for the second time that week, and again completely by accident. As before, he grabbed her elbow before she could fall and jerked her upright.
Goodness, Miss. You ought to watch where you're going in the future- he stopped, noticing who he had impacted with. Gwen?
Good night, Ryuu, she said, lifting the mask of indifference, and trying to push past.
Good night, Gwen.
She could feel his eyes on her for some time after, and fought the urge to dash sobbing into her chamber. As the daughter of a Warrior, she would walk away with pride. Hardships faced on the battlefield were by far greater than heartbreak. And so, she turned down the hallway and continued on to her bedroom, her steps and words ringing in her ears. After two nighttime encounters, she was loathe to bump into anything else that might tear her heart to pieces.
*********
"Hey, sleepy," Van said. "Glad to see you're awake again."
"Oh! Hello, Van," she said absently. "You haven't seen Ariel, have you?"
"Yes, but-"
"I wanted to apologize," she continued, dazedly ignoring him. "I acted quite horribly earlier."
"I'll tell her, then," Van said. "You aren't to move until Merla says so. You've got at least two more days, and then you should be alright."
"Oh, but Van," she pouted, and turned from him, folding her arms. "It's so dreadful, stuffed up in here and-"
Hitomi doesn't complain often. I wonder if Ariel was right?
"Don't worry about it. When you get better, you and I can go somewhere. Or, maybe I could send you on a nice vacation where it's safe."
"Don't, Van," she said, her voice going softer. "I like it here, with you. . ."
********
I'll go in your place, Gwen, if he means that much to you, M'llei offered. G'eneth shook her head, her silver curls, plaited with bells, jingling.
You can't. Would you?
We look the same, you know. We've got the same silverish hair- mine's a bit more yellow, mind, but I doubt King whoever-he-is won't notice or remember. Our eyes are both purplish too.though mine are lighter than yours. Heck, no one would know the difference if you just loaned me a gown of yours for the wedding.
That's not what I meant.
Oh, I know, giving up my young life to live with an old toad. Moonshine, Gwen, that is the life for me! Riches, beautiful things, and for as long as I live, a loving husband and the comfort of the upper classes! You'd be doing me a favor!
M'llei, you shouldn't do this.
Why not?
I don't know. It just. . .doesn't seem right.
Look here, Gwen. Ryuu'll marry you, and then all you have to worry about is him calling you G'eneth in public.
Not that. I mean, why would the King of N'sayen himself want me? Exactly what have I done that would bring my name to his ears? What if he wants revenge, on my father, or perhaps the mother I never knew? G'eneth hugged her knees to her chest, wondering.
Then I'll suffer the consequences. Come on, Gwen. Please!! If it's really that bad, then maybe we could switch again, after a few days?
M'llei had to plead and bargain, but in the end, that is exactly what they did.
********
Guaneth swept along furiously, glancing in the mirror occasionally, only to be greeted by the silver-haired maiden she had long forgotten.
"Curse it!" she swore again, for the second time that day, and scrambled out of the mirror's path. No matter who's body she wore, the reflection in a pure-crafted mirror was always the same: A young girl, dressed in the manner of a court lady, her silver hair plaited with golden bells, and a slightly-bearded soldier standing behind her, one hand, fondly reassuring, on her shoulder. A memory of a past, glorious age, but that was all it was. A memory.
It didn't have to be this way. . .
Well? What did you all think? I'm on page TWO HUNDRED in microsoft word. Isn't that GREAT? I NEVER thought I'd write something this long!! ^_^ Suggestions for the next chapter are welcome. I'm perhaps thinking of more in-depth descriptions of this G'eneth, less of the real world, and then, suddenly, catastrophe strikes when Guanie decides to make her move! ^_^ Poor Van! She's going to attack him with Hitomi, and he'll be too confused to realize, but-aha! Something's going to happen! ^_^ Until then, this is DragonSun! See ya later! And something is wrong with spellcheck. It didn't pick up Guanie, G'eneth, Gwen, Hitomi, Gaddis, Merla, or M'llei, and even not Ryuu!
*grabs laptop and flies off into the sunset* Fading echo: Damned sunlight! Gets in my eyes!! Ja ne! (^_^)