AN-...Ok, well, I'm sorry it took so long, like I said. Please don't kill me *edges away from heavily armed Dilly- fangirls* School's a bugger, ne? Like I said before, from here on in, it's gonna get darker. Also, I figured I'd clear up a couple of things people have asked in reviews or email, so bear with the lengthy intro thing, k?
Is Dilly gonna die? We're all just gonna hafta see. I, too, read Scars on the Heart, and I was depressed for two weeks afterwards, and yes, I cried when I read it. I haven't read the sequel because the first story just got me down too much. However, if my story requires Dilly to fall off a cliff, then dangit, he's gonna fall!! Harsh as it seems, some things cannot be changed, as they've been written out already, and are awaiting typing. *shrugs, then leaps back up into the tree conveniently nearby to get away from angry readers* Please don't kill me before the story is finished!! I'll put up a warning, every time someone's going to die, k? I won't say who, but I'll be sure to put it in the beginning in BIG letters, k?
Pairing? ...You've found me out. It's a OcxC fic. Hehehe... ^_6
Like a sister? That's explained later, so I'll shut up and y'all can read for yourself, alright?
On a side note, Allen fans, after reading this chapter, please don't come after me... Come to think of it, that goes for Folken and Dilandau fans too.... ^_^;;;;
Oh, and one more thing... Someone's going to DIE in this chapter!! ^_^ Enjoy!!
Dance of the Curse/Romance
Celena was very proud of the fact that not only was she able to meet her brother and the twit without lunging for the Princess' throat, she'd also managed a smile on her face that was deceptively natural looking. The bottle of vino probably helped, of course, but it might have also been because the princess was so worn out from the trip that she'd said very little before Allen was obligated to lead her to her quarters. Being thus occupied, he did not have the time to pull Celena to the side to give her the talking to he wanted to give her (though he did give her hair a hard look), which made Celena's mood all the better. She went to bed in a rather good spirits, and fell asleep quickly, again, thanks to Dilandau's 'contribution' to the welcoming of her brother. She fell into a deep sleep, though her night was troubled by nightmares and dreams that she would not remember come morning.
Dilandau consulted the papers he'd brought with him, and then scanned the newest letters he'd received from the front. Things had gone from bad to worse, and the calm facade that all the different countries had been keeping would soon be shattered, and the true chaos that was quietly growing to the south was about to brim into the public's knowledge. For better or for worse, very little was known about the true strength of the southern armies, mostly because the soldiers that had been sent down to keep the peace were either still stationed, wounded, missing or dead. What little Dilandau knew of his opponent was disturbing enough, and he knew that while he might prefer to be the one who was the reason behind Zaibach's victory, it was now out of his country's league. They were still hurting from the last Great War, and it's people were too weak, too few to stand a chance anymore. They had not been able to assemble the different peoples of the shattered country as easily or as quickly as the Southern Continent had, and were thus all the weaker then them. As much as Dilandau hated to admit defeat, he knew a losing battle when he fought one. And he hated being forced into the position he was in now; being forced to ask for help.
They would come, though; already, unbeknownst to her, Celena had brought with her the pledge of Dryden and Millerna's support, and the promise of more news that was to have come through Allen. Freid had sent their ambassador to come to some sort of agreement with him, as had some of the smaller, less important countries. Dilandau knew that they would all lend aid to them, if not out of respect of Folken, then at least out of the knowledge that if Zaibach fell, then there would be no hope for the rest of them. He smiled at this, relishing in the fact that others hated giving him help as much as he hated asking for it. However, there was still one last country that had yet to offer any type of assistance. One small, good for nothing tiny little backwater country; it mattered little enough to him that they wouldn't join, but Folken had insisted to speak with the king to find out his reasonings. So, here they were. Fanelia, home of the king who was known for his love of his people, and his absolute stubbornness.
Dilandau frowned when he was reminded of Van's polite but curt refusal of any assistance, and glared at the letter in question before him. It was neatly written, looking innocent enough but flatly stating that if Dilandau didn't have the decency to come and make the proposal to him in person, then he could easily tell his Emperor that Fanelia would not be sending anything, have a nice day. Folken refused to believe his brother would say such a thing, thought the letter was a hoax, and decided a personal trip would be a better approach to the situation. But he couldn't make the trip by himself; all of his bodyguards had to be there too, and so it had been hard to find time to get everything organized. The birth of the brat had been the perfect excuse to come and raise Hell with Van, and Dilandau was going to enjoy watching the lecture Folken had prepared to recite for his little brother. Van wouldn't be able to stand up against his older brother's reasonings, and would agree to giving something up for the good of Gaia.
However, there was still one loose end that they had to get rid of before they had a meeting to decide the next line of action. The ambassador of the Southern Continent was still walking about freely, laughing and socializing with everyone as though there was nothing going on. Celena seemed to have befriended him, and seemed to trust him completely. She wasn't usually a bad judge of character, but there was something that bothered Dilandau about his smooth nature and the fact that the sorcerers didn't bother him at all. The fact that he was associated with them made him an automatic enemy of Dilandau's, but Celena had been through just as much as he had, and yet she didn't blame Mryth for his ties.
Dilandau scowled at the thought of her befriending someone in league with the sorcerers, and thought it would be best to inform her of everything that had been going on behind her back- everything was about to erupt in less than a month anyway. He stood, gathering his papers to take them to Folken, but paused, and looked to the door. The footsteps he had noticed a few moments ago were now coming to a halt by his door, but the owner had not knocked to announce his presence. Dilandau sighed, and sat down again, calling out to his visitor.
"You can come in, Allen. It's open." There was a startled moment of silence, but the door finally opened, and the knight walked in, looking tired, somewhat worried, and rather upset with him. Dilandau smirked, motioned for him to sit, and poured the man a drink.
"Congratulations are in order for you, Allen. Cheers. May you be happy, for as long as it lasts." Allen took the offered drink and gulped it, then sat back, rubbing his head.
"Dilandau, I didn't come here to chat idly. I want to clear up a few things with you, and make sure we're seeing things from the same side. I want to ask you several questions, but the trip was long and I'm tired, so I'll be brief. The various leaders of the northern countries have heard your proposal, but many are against it and refuse to be moved. Tomorrow, at the council, we will have to discuss the details and see if there is something that can be done. We have got to get things settled now, before we are over-run. The advisors to Folken will be in charge of-"
"Don't drag your own sister into this, Allen. She needs to know, what with you going off to play hero again, but she does not need to hear everything so soon. Can't you at least wait until after this feast thing is over? She'll have to know what you're doing eventually, and she's been looking forward to dancing, though Gods know why..." Allen sipped at his second glass, nodding.
"That is precisely what I was going to say. I need you to make sure that Celena is not present- I would do something myself, but she will not listen to me, and I know she will respect your wishes-"
"Allen, don't be stupid. She does what she wants, and only listens to others when it's in her best interests. You don't have to worry about her though. She's already planned the day out with Merle; they're going shopping again tomorrow. I believe they are going to try to outfit the entire force in something fashionable for this event. A waste of good resources, if you ask me, but it will serve your purposes well enough. You don't need to worry about her spoiling your plans." Allen shook his head as though to clear it, and drank again from his glass. They sat in silence for a few moments, both stewing over the meeting they would be attending the next day. Allen put his glass down first, then stretched to drive away sleep for a few more minutes.
"Actually, there was one last thing I want to know, before I go tonight..."
Celena twirled around in her skirts, listening to the softly whispering swishes of the fabric as she spun. Merle had insisted upon the purple gown, though it had a bit long for Celena's taste. However, as she turned every which way to look at herself in the mirror, she was happy the girl had persuaded her to choose the dress. Merle sat on the bed across the room, laughing at her, though she had been doing the same thing earlier.
"C'mon, Celena, you're acting like you're a princess in that thing!! You're gonna make yourself sick if you keep spinning like that, and then you won't be able to eat anything, and then you won't be able to dance 'cause you'll be too weak, and then the whole night will be ruined for you and those three days of shopping will have been for nothing!!" Celena looked over her shoulder, giggling.
"I can't help it!! I *feel* like a princess tonight! I'm so excited, Merle! Van and Hitomi have a new son, everyone is so happy, and better yet, almost everyone is here! It would have been great if Millerna and Dryden could have come, but with Millerna sick and Dryden left to take care of both of their duties, they couldn't make it. But Allen's here, and I'll even be able to be nice to that stupid Princess Anna, even though I really do find her to be a complete and utter moron... But it doesn't matter!! Folken , Dilandau and the boys are here, and I think they'll all have a good time, despite their original complaints. Oh, I can't wait!!" The cat girl slid off the bed, coming to put a gentle, though restraining hand on her friend's shoulder.
"You've said that several times already, but you haven't done anything! C'mon, I bet they've already started, and I wanna be there to see the naming ceremony!!" Celena grabbed the gloves that were laying on her dressing table, and yanked them on as she hurried after the cat-girl. Merle's pale yellow dress fluttered about as she bounced down the hall, and they tried their best to look dignified while retaining their quick pace. Within five minutes, they'd made their way to their places to the side of the royal platform, usually home of the Fanelian thrones, but tonight the area held a couch for Hitomi, as well as a bassinet for the young prince. Folken was already there, talking to his brother and sister-in-law who was reclining on said couch, as were Allen and Anna, who were also engaged in conversation, but at a much closer proximity to each other. Celena was proud of herself when she did not get the slightest bit angry, though she did scowl a bit when she noticed that three Slayers and two Hikaris were the only ones to be seen in the room. No Dilandau. She brushed it off when she sensed he was near, and moved to get a better view of the royal Fanelian family. After a few more minutes, Van held up his hand, and the room quieted down immediately.
"My friends and visitors, we wish to thank you for joining us in this joyous celebration! Fanelia has a new Prince!" The was a roar of cheer and clapping, which went on for several minutes until Van was forced to silence them again. He smiled, looking back to Hitomi, before continuing.
"We have been most fortunate these past few years. Fanelia has been rebuilt to an even greater country, we have prospered and flourished, living in peace and harmony with our neighbors as we have always, and will always do. We have also been blessed with a Queen who has not only been my consort and helped us all through the trials we have faced, she has also been a great support to me, and has helped me to overcome many of my faults to be a better king- no, a better man- for my people and country!" Another roar followed this statement, and Hitomi flushed from her spot on the couch. She smiled back at Van with all the love one could ever imagine between two people, and Celena couldn't help but sigh happily as she saw them together, so content.
Van walked over to his queen's side, and he touched her shoulder gently. She responded by squeezing his hand, then gently handing him their son. Van smiled even broader if possible and called out over the noise.
"And now, not only has she put up with me, she's given us an heir to the throne! Prince Eryean Lacour de Fanel!" A roar went up for the third time, this time drowning out anything else the king might have had to say. He didn't seem to mind, however, as he had his hands full trying to cheer up the young Eryean, who'd begun to cry from all the noise. Hitomi stood and took the child, shushing him and whispering something to Van. She gave him a peck on the cheek before heading out of the room with four knights and Merle hurrying after them. The original Lacour, needless to say, was staring at his younger brother with wide eyes. Van simply smiled at him, then left to mingle with his people and guests. Celena heard a snort behind her, and she spun to see Dilandau, arms crossed and smirk on his face.
"The kid's name was so predictable. Of course they had to have something of Folken's name in it." She glanced over at the small group of visiting ambassadors giving their congratulations to the new father, and she shrugged.
"So? Van has deep respect for Folken- most everyone does. Except for you, it would seem. I sometimes can't believe he puts up with you. But don't bother him tonight, everyone's so happy, you shouldn't make any fuss." He scowled, sipping a glass of vino as he looked over the crowd.
"I'm here to watch Folken and keep him safe, that's all. I think all this pomp is ridiculous; the kid isn't going to remember any of it, and it's wasting money, time and resources besides." She shook her head, a chiding smile on her face.
"Oh Dilandau, you're such a sour puss sometimes. I think it's nice to see everyone so happy, and dressed up! Look at you, you put on your overcoat, just for the occasion! You really have outdone yourself tonight!!" He made a "Hnnn." noise, as though he meant to ignore the comment, and lifted his glass again. She held it though, and then spun around in front of him.
"Dilandau, that's your cue to tell me how *I* look tonight! Isn't this dress pretty??" She giggled and he rolled his eyes, taking the sip she'd kept him from drinking, and then looked her over carefully, as though studying her every minute detail. He did this for several minutes, until she finally got impatient ans stamped her foot.
"Well??" He gave her one more glace, then tipped his glass back. But, instead of making a snide comment about stupid fashions, he smiled.
"You look very nice tonight, Celena." She opened her mouth in disbelief, and blushed despite herself.
"You really think so??" He laughed, giving her a smile.
"Anyone who said otherwise would be lying if they said so, and you know it, so don't be modest. Besides, I've always thought you looked nice in purple, though I thought you preferred blue. Although, you know..." He trailed off, looking at her sideways, "if we're to pull this act off, you should be careful not to get swept off your feet by anyone here tonight. We *are* supposed to have eloped, you know. Which reminds me, Maveric wants to sweep you off your feet in one of the dances tonight. In fact, if you time it right, you should be able to get at least one with each of the men before or after their posts. You might even be able to steal Dalet away from Katharine, but I wouldn't risk losing the blood." They laughed at that, and she smiled seductively up at him.
"And what about you? Are you going to ask me to dance?" He blinked at her for a few minutes, as though thrown off by her tone of voice, but answered in an equally silky and sultry whisper.
"And risk pissing off Allen? Sounds fun..." He straightened up then, and she only then realized how close they'd been- merely inches from each other. If Allen had been looking their way, it would have looked like they'd been much closer than that... As if on cue, Dilandau smirked and deliberately put his hand around her waist.
"Allen!! So pleasant to see you again...." Celena felt her heat leave her blood and rush to her face, though she kept her expresesion at a cheerful, if reserved countenance.
"Brother, Princess Anna! I was wondering when we'd be able to talk; you seemed so busy before, what with arriving so late and then all the little things that had to be done before the party. I must say, your highness, you're looking resplendent tonight! And Allen, you're incorrigible. I swear, when I return home, I'm going to get rid of that uniform and insist that Dryden and Millerna fit you with something else. Although, it is good to see you. I did miss you." Allen, for his part, had a rather funny look on his face as they made their way over, but Anna took over the talking immediately.
"Oh Celena, it is *so* good to see you again! You look wonderful tonight- is that from one of the native dress-shops? They've such beautiful and richly colored things here, we've nothing like it at home. Perhaps one day soon, after all this is over, you'll be able to visit us, and we'll give you a tour of our markets- they're nothing like the ones here but each shop has got its own charms to it, and we've so many things that you don't find up north!! I was amazed at how few perfumes and such there are- the air of my home is filled with spices and perfumes, it almost seems alive with them! Really, you *must* come one day, and we'll go everywhere! Oh, I'm sure we're going to be such good friends, Celena- I may call you that, mayn't I? I don't want to be rude, but Allen's told me so much about you I couldn't help but feel like we're sisters!! I was so sad that you left so suddenly after I arrived, but I was glad to hear that we'd be seeing each other again here- the prince is a DOLL! I swear, I've never seen anything more absolutely adorable, and his parents have got to be some of the sweetest people I've ever met! Van is so handsome, don't you think? And Hitomi has the patience of an angel! I'm sure their son will be an absolutely wonderful boy! Now, you must introduce me to your handsome friend here! I wasn't aware that you'd arrived with an escort. How do you do, good sir, I am Princess Auriellanna of Cyriell -but call me Anna- though I suppose I'm queen now, since the advisors have declared me to be so. How very odd, to be suddenly queen, and yet thousands of miles from home...." The Princess quieted down, and Celena shook her head, trying to make sure she'd heard everything so that if she'd been forced to recall it later in another conversation with the girl, she could pull at things for her to gab about.
"This is General Dilandau Albatou of Zaibach, Princess. He is one of my dearest and oldest friends; we've been through much together over the years." Dilandau smirked a bit at that, but bent to kiss Anna's hand in the nobility's fashion.
"Lady Anna, I am pleased to meet you. May I congratulate you on you recent marriage?" The girl beamed at that, while Celena got a shiver of foreboding down her spine. Dilandau's arm went easily around her waist again, though this time he made it clear to her that it was to keep her from luging at anyone's throat. He grinned down at her, giving her a squeeze. "Well? Aren't you going to tell them congratulations, Celena?" She opened her mouth several times, staring at her brother in disbelief. Her Brother- Allen- her "Onii-sama" had gotten married to the idiot he was standing next to, and hadn't so much as told her before the party, or even sent her a letter. Allen, for his part, was blushing a rather interesting shade of red. Celena simply stared at them for several minutes, then dumbly said,
"Congratulations." She blinked, then shook her head. The princess had already begun to launch herself into another oration, but Celena heard very little. When Allen asked if she was alright, she nodded mutely, then excused herself quickly, blending into the crowd.
I conveniently found myself over by the table laid out with drinks, and I soon had a full glass and a secluded corner to hide in. I sipped slowly, ignoring the rest of the party and trying to figure out where I had gone wrong in my assumption of the world's order. How had everything gone upside down, side ways and then backwards to top it off?? Allen was a responsible adult, he'd never done anything so brash before, and I had a hard time believing he would even think about marrying her without consulting me. We always talked over everything, we consulted each other on anything we thought was important, and he'd gotten bloody *married* without so much as giving me a letter or a hint. And what really boiled my blood was that *Dilandau* of all people knew , and hadn't thought it important enough to tell me!!
I took another sip, staring angrily at my cup, not really giving a care as to who was watching, but I knew my silent simmering would eventually be disturbed by people I didn't want to talk to, or someone who had a death wish and wanted me to dance. It was actually a combination of the two, as it ended up; Allen gave me a nervous smile and bow, holding out his hand to dance. I glared at him, gulped the rest of my wine and then took his hand in a death grip- just to make sure he realized I wasn't happy with him. Luckily for both of us, it was an easy song, one that required little thought or movement, so we had a wonderful chance to chat while we danced. I could tell he felt rather guilty, though he was as poised as ever, and smiled as though nothing were wrong.
"Celena, before you get angry with me, please hear me out." I gave him an icy smile and stepped on his toe- hard, I might add- but he merely flinched a little, and continued.
"I know you're not fond of Anna-"
"Not fond is the understatement of a lifetime, Allen. I suppose it's not my business, though." He held onto my hand tightly- I suppose because he didn't want me to go off in a huff, which , honestly, I was ready to do.
"Celena, it does matter. It matters to me. I love you, and I don't want anything to come between us. I know you're unhappy, but I thought that maybe if you were engaged, you might cheer up somewhat." I stopped cold in my tracks, causing the couple behind us to bump into me, but I really didn't care. If Allen wanted to create a scene in the middle of the dance floor-though, I would have preferred somewhere where we wouldn't ruin the party- he would get one.
"Is that why you got married? You thought that if I saw how happy you were, I'd follow along in your tracks like a good little girl?" He frowned momentarily, then pulled me back to dancing beside him.
"Of course not, don't be foolish. I got married because I love Anna, and she loves me. Listen to what I'm trying to tell you, and stop interrupting. I *wanted* to get you engaged because I thought you would be happy, or that you could at least learn to be happy. I thought that, maybe, if you had a husband to love, you wouldn't think you had to take care of me. But I see now that I was wrong. You can't force yourself to love someone, and I only want you to be happy Celena. So, if you don't want to get married, you don't have to. I ...I've thought it over these past few weeks that you've been in Zaibach, and I thought I'd chased you away for good. I don't ever want to lose you again, Celena. I thought.. I thought you were gone, and I'd never forgive myself if something happened to you. I couldn't bear it! I never want to lose my little sister again.
" I know you don't like Anna, but please, don't let it get between us. For my sake, as well as hers, try to get along with her. Give her a chance, she's smarter than she lets on, I promise. Think of Queen Millerna; many foreigners think she's a woman who thinks only of herself, and only of how to make herself happy. But you and I and most of Asturia know that she is a kind hearted, clever woman, if a bit impetuous.
"Or you, Little Bird. There are many who do not think a woman would be able to do half the things you can. You can fly a guymelef, cross swords with the best of us, you've got acting skills that could put a professional to shame, you can just as easily write a government document as you can a letter. They're fools, and we both know it, but that doesn't mean they will change their opinions. Though I don't approve of some of those things, I know you can do them, and I'm proud of you. I just want to see you happy, and if you want to stay as you are, then don't change. But, for now, can you at least try to get along with her, for your Onii-sama?"
I didn't even realize I'd been crying, not until he pulled out a handkerchief to wipe my eyes with. I blew my nose, sniffled, then threw myself at him to hug him. I was again reminded of how wonderful- if a bit rash and hot tempered every so often- he was, and despite the fact that he could be a complete ass sometimes, I loved him too. We moved to a corner where he helped me collect myself, and forced me to eat something, since I'd already had a glass of vino and nothing to eat. After several minutes, I was feeling better, though I'm sure my eyes were red and my face puffy. Allen hugged me again, asked if I was alright, and I told him to go enjoy himself while I calmed down and ate more of some rather good nibbles. Some Fanelian fruit, I think; it was quite palatable.
I was in much better spirits when he left. He said I didn't have to worry about the duke apparently, Duke Trelyn
had already written to Allen and told him that he needed to decide if it was best for me, and not for society. I'd love to know what the duke said, but Allen refused to show me. I knew something else must have triggered his change of opinion, but maybe it was Anna. Who was heading towards me at that moment. Oh goody.
"Lady Celena...?" She was the quietest I'd ever heard her before, and she actually shut up after that. She looked a bit hurt, and I felt guilty, knowing I was probably to blame. Instead, I patted to the seat beside me, and we sat together, albeit a bit awkwardly.
"Please, call me Celena, Anna. I'm sorry if I was rude before, but Allen didn't so much as write to me, and we've always been close. I suppose I was hurt because he let everyone else know before me. It isn't you, honestly. I'm sorry if it seemed to be so. I'm a bit quick to speak before I think." Anna smiled softly, then looked out over the room.
"He didn't have a choice in the matter, you know. I claimed him." I choked on the grape I'd been eating, and Anna had to pound me on the back to help me breathe again. I wiped away tears, starting at her response.
"What?" She giggled, helping herself to one of the things on my plate.
"I told him that I needed a consort, and that I wasn't about to get married off to one of the Magliss people the advisors insisted on. Not that I have anything against Mryth, but his heart just wasn't in it. I told your brother that I'd never felt like I was feeling before, and that I never cared for any of the men I'd had propose to me. I told him that I loved him, and that I wanted him to be by my side. So, I claimed him, and now he's mine. Rather rude of me, I suppose, but he didn't seem to mind." She gave me a cheery smile, and I stared at her for several minutes. What on earth does one say to THAT?
"Umm... And what does 'claiming' involve? Paper work? An exchange of vows in front of witnesses? A ceremony of some sort?" Anna giggled, and flushed a little at that.
"Well... There will be a lot of paperwork to fill out later on, and we will have to have a ceremony of some sort- I was hoping you and Millie would help us with that. But the actual claiming... Well, I suppose you could say I seduced him! *giggle* Then, he couldn't ruin my name, you know, seeing as I'd, ah, come to know him intimately. He didn't seem to mind *that* either- he rather seemed to enjoy it." She giggled again at that, and I could feel my own face go red. I really didn't want to know more than I already did of Allen's sex-life, and my new sister-in-law was chatting up a storm. Instead, I shifted subjects.
"So... I expect he's told you everything, then? Our family is one of the bizarrest you could have chosen, and we both had very... unique childhoods. " She nodded, a dreamy smile on her face.
"I know. He told me of his own childhood- I would have never thought him a rogue!- about your father leaving to go exploring, and your mother falling ill and then leaving him alone. I also know that he has a son, but I know he wishes he could have done something for his son after the boy's foster father died. Now that he'll share my title, he'll be able to make excuses to visit more often. But as for your past... He said it was not his place to tell me, and that you would be the one to tell me. I respect that, and I want you to know that I'm not going to pry. Tell me in your own time, or not at all. But please, I know you are upset, losing your brother to me, but he loves you very much.
"He also told me about that absurd idea of marrying you off to make you happy, and I personally wrote to the duke, and explained the real situation to him. The duke in turn wrote a rather funny letter in reply for Allen- remind me, I've got a copy somewhere, and I'll let you have it. Men can be so silly sometimes, can't they?? Allen's heart was in the right, but his logic was completely wrong. Just goes to show how much they need us to fix their mistakes. But that's why I love him. Your brother can be a complete fool, and I know I can be just as silly, if not worse at times, but... Well, we complete each other. Sounds silly and cliched, doesn't it? But it's true. I do love your brother, Celena. With all my heart.
"And, though we might not be the best of friends right now, I can tell you that if you give them a chance, men will throw themselves at your feet. I bet you don't know how many eyes were following you when walked in. You really must dance at least once tonight!!" I smiled at that, spotting one of my targets coming towards us.
"I plan to, Anna. And I would love to chat, but it seems like one of the people who would throw himself at my feet is coming to ask for a dance. Will you excuse me?" She nodded, getting up saying something about pinning down my brother to drag him to dance. Allen, for his part, seemed to be having a serious conversation with Folken, but happily accepted Anna's dance proposition. I walked towards the slayer approaching me. He grinned, bowing, and then held out a hand.
"May I have this dance, Lady Schezar?" I smiled a nodded, taking his arm and letting him lead me to the floor. As we got into the proper position, I gave him a look.
"I'm more than willing to dance with you, Gatti, but I think Maveric said he was going to try to be first." Gatti grinned, taking my hands, and moving to my side before coming back in front and going to my other side. I mimicked him, watching his moves since I wasn't too familiar with the tune.
"Oh, he did, but he lost his chance in that he got first watch, and I won the first round. You're going to be very busy tonight." He gave me a wink, and then we had to concentrate on our moves. Gatti was well versed in the dance, considering he'd spent most of his life in the streets, then as a soldier. We both laughed at our mistakes, and bowed at the end I turned around... to be met with Maveric, who gave Gatti a good-hearted glare and took my second dance. He knew less about dancing than I did, but we managed.
Not surprisingly, Dalet, Chesta and Talin had the best dancing skills. I was waltzed and paraded about as I'd never been (probably because the balls I'd attended before were filled with men who were afraid of me and they left me alone, hence I never danced.) But I stumbled around with them, enjoying their flashy steps as I tried not to tread on their feet. Migel was after Talin, not saying much but doing fairly well. That is, until a group of the girls spotted him up for grabs after we were done. He disappeared under a cloud of silks and satins, though the last I saw of him, he was swept up by Cia for an Asturian folk dance.
Biore, Guimel and Viole flushed when I had to ask them to dance, but they didn't do as poorly as they said they would. Guimel was rather good, actually, though he claimed he'd rather be piping than dancing. Aaron got out of a dance, simply because he was concentrating all his efforts on getting Ralling and Terra to dance. I caught sight of him with both of them at one point or another on the floor, though neither girl would admit in a million years that they were enjoying themselves. Aaron seemed in heaven.
Shoji claimed he didn't know any dances, then verified his statement very well. After we were done, I think he was glad to run off to his shift. Ryuuon taught me a Fanelian song, slow and sweet, whispering the song's translation in my ear. He got the 'thumbs up' sign from several of the hikaris and slayers when we parted.
I danced with a few other men in the crowd, but as the evening drew to a close, my feet were beginning to grow weary, and I wondered if there was a good way to sneak off to my rooms. In fact, I had found the best route to take (behind the tapestry to the left of the drink table, then up the stairs towards the courtyard) when Chesta came up to me again. I didn't want to disappoint him, so I followed him past my escape route and towards... Folken?? As we approached, Folken turned and smiled as he caught sight of us, then gave me a slight bow. He held out his hand, a smile playing a his lips.
"My lady Celena, I hope you did not intend to end the night without giving me the pleasure of a dance. I was waiting until you seemed to have a free spot to ask you." I flushed despite my brain yelling at my blush-reflex not to, and I accepted his hand with a slight curtsey of my own.
"Of course not, Lord Folken. Nothing would give me better pleasure than a dance with you." He smiled a bit more at that, and led me to the floor, where we were soon caught up in a Zaibachan love ballad, sung by a cat girl that resembled Nariya in coloring, though with Merle's jovial manner. Folken's face changed a bit when he saw the girl, but he turned his attention back to me and smiled.
"I feel like I haven't been a proper host at all, Lady Celena. You've been with us for over three weeks now, but I have barely seen you as much as I would have liked." I smiled, putting my hand on his shoulder as he put his own around my waist, and we clasped our other hands together, starting the dance's circular steps.
"We've been busy, my lord; you especially. I have to thank you again for you kindness in inviting me to begin with. I am truly in your debt." At that, he shook his head.
"Not at all, lady Celena. I have enjoyed our times together, and I will miss you when you return to Asturia."
I had to sigh at that, I wasn't looking forward to returning to Asturia either... Instead, I changed the subject.
"Really, Lord Folken. After all the time we've known each other, you would think that you would know by now that 'Lady' is not a way I am to be addressed. Please, only Celena." He laughed, and spun about with me as the cat girl started up another verse.
"As you must stop calling me, 'my lord'. For you, Celena, I am simply Folken." I smiled and nodded, the rest of our song was in silence. However, before we parted, he leaned down and whispered into my ear.
"I must speak with you, alone. Meet me in the fountain yard, after the last song has been spent and the guests all retire to their rooms. There is something I must tell you." I nodded, preplexed, but her was gone- surprisingly enough, to dance with the one hikari I had not gotten to know very well, Ellise. She gave him such a warm smile, that I knew she felt more than admiration for her employer. In fact, if she was a noble woman, she'd be doing all she could to get his attention not that she'd have to try hard, that is. He smiled at her with such warmth, I couldn't help but feel a bit jealous. Not because I resented her his feelings, I just wondered if I'd look at someone like that, and get the same response. Ah well. Such thoughts can lead to becoming an old maid, and there were far too many things for me to think about than to worry about my marriage status.
"Lady Celena? May I have this next dance? Unless you were waiting for another, then I will not intrude." I found my self next dancing with Mryth, who, despite his odd foreign ways and accent, knew the dance very well. He told me that in his hometown, dancing was the way people would meet new acquaintances and entertain old friends. I couldn't help but wonder what their dances were like, and he was in the middle of telling me about them when he stopped, and released my hands. His eyes were unreadable, looking over my shoulder at someone behind me.
"I hate to break up this cheerful little scene, but your presence is required by King Van and Sir Allen. They said it's urgent." Mryth looked at Dilandau for several minutes, then nodded, kissing my hand briefly and then melting into the crowds, off to find Van and my brother. Dilandau watched him go, muttering under his breath.
"I can't believe you actually like him, Celena.. He's unsettling and strange." He shook his head, then started to leave. He didn't get two steps before I'd grabbed him and turned him to face me. He looked at me blankly. "What?"
"You, sir, have just robbed me of my dance partner. You must finish the song with me, as it is your duty to uphold my honor." He smirked at that, though he did take my hands.
"Your honor, hm? I thought I was already in charge of that." He laughed as I cuffed his shoulder, but we soon settled into the dance. A steady, if tedious, song from Anna's country, with few steps that required minimal to no thought to perform. Dilandau seemed somewhat distracted however, so when that song ended, I held onto his hand, even as he tried to leave. He gave me a puzzled look, but complied and stayed for the last song of the night. A strings piece, soft and drifting in and about the hall, putting a quiet content silence over the crowd. I caught a glimpse of Allen and Anna, dancing in their own little world, looking happy and oblivious to everything except each other.
// Don't let it get to you. I've heard worrying adds wrinkles.// I turned my attention back to Dilandau, who was looking in the same direction as myself. He gave me a smile as we caught each other's eye, and I sighed, putting my head on his shoulder.
*I know. It shouldn't bother me, but it does. I just can't help feeling a little left out.* He hugged me slightly, though I'm sure he made certain no one was watching before he did it, and whispered to me softly.
"You know I'll always be there for you, Celena." I smiled and closed my eyes.
*I know that too. Thank you, Dilandau.* We danced in silence, though I could just sense something was on Dilandau's mind. When I asked, he said to forget it, and while I didn't, I left him alone. Obviously he didn't want to share with anyone what he was thinking about, so I respected that, just as he didn't press me for anything. I was almost reluctant to let him go at the end- I'll be the first to admit, I was dead tired and leaning on him was a very comfortable way to let my mind wander. As we pulled back, Dilandau finally spoke, though haltingly.
"Celena, I..." He stopped, then tried to continue. "I need to.. I just... I wanted to... I want to talk to you- but later. Not... not yet..." I peered up at him, looking at him closely. His head was down- had he been anyone else, I would have thought he'd be looking down my front, though I knew his mind was elsewhere.
"Alright... But promise you'll come talk to me as soon as you're ready, alright?" He didn't respond, and I leaned in closer. "Dilandau?" He looked up so quickly, our lips brushed against each other's for the briefest of moments; it was over in a moment though, I had turned my head in the hopes that he didn't see me blush. He didn't comment on it though, he simply said,
"I will, Celena." I *wanted* to figure out what was going on, but he stopped my pressing, by walking away, heading off to his rooms.
Celena shivered slightly as the cool breezes of the garden played with her gown. She hadn't thought to bring a shawl or cover of any sort; of course, she hadn't expected to be waiting by the pond as Folken finished talking to some ambassador from Freid. As soon as he'd finished, he walked over, apologizing profusely.
"I'm sorry to keep you, Celena. That man wouldn't stop talking, and it wasn't until I mentioned him talking to Dilandau that he started wrapping up- but you look frozen! Here, take my cloak!" He draped said cloth over her, and she happily took in the warmth. He led her down a small path, where he motioned for her to sit. He, in turn, began to pace, seeming both nervous and excited and worried at the same time. She watched him for several minutes before finally speaking.
"Folken, what is it? I haven't ever seen you in such a state before! Whatever is the matter?" He stood still, but turned to face her completely then. He looked stern, then softened his gaze to a sheepish smile.
"I'm sorry, I just.. I have so much to say and yet I don't know how..." She felt her heart pitter patter at that, though she didn't get a chance to respond before he dove into his thoughts.
"I don't know how aware you are of our conditions with the southern continent. I can assure you, they're not good. We've been fighting a small war on the borders since I took my place as Emperor, and things have gone from bad to worse. I hate to think that it is because I am not a strong enough leader, but sometimes I cannot help but wonder..." He shook his head, silencing her response by continuing.
"My country is weak, as you have seen. We're getting stronger, but not nearly as quickly as the sorcerers have. I think the Magliss have something to do with it, but no one knows. Few who have gone against them have survived, so not much is known about their army. Needless to say, Zaibach has been forced to call upon her neighbors to aid her in her time of need. The allied forces of the north have agreed to lend us soldiers and supplies, simply because they know that we are the last stand of defense before Gaia falls to the sorcerers. I tell you this, because your brother will be accompanying myself and Van back to Zaibach, where we will move to the front. Asturia, Fanelia, Freid, Daedelus, and several other countries are sending troops even as we speak. We will announce war on the Southern Continent when they have arrived at the palace, which will be within a week. Gaia's fate has come to this, and now we will see if peace will prevail, or if we will all be enslaved by the sorcerers. We cannot afford to lose this fight." Celena sat in shocked silence, which allowed him to go on unhindered.
"You and Anna will be returning to Asturia, where you will be safe. Allen has arranged your transportation to leave tomorrow." Her angry noise was cut off again when he raised a hand.
"This means that I have very little time to speak with you, hence, I must be blunt. Forgive me if I am too forthcoming.
I have enjoyed these past times we have spent together, Celena. You are an intelligent, beautiful and cunning woman who can be the gentlest of souls, but also retain nerves of steel in the worst situations. You are fearless and intrepid, but you aren't ruthless, nor do you try to force others to obey you. You have a natural gift for commanding people, and leading them into victory. These are all qualities that make a great leader, as well as a compassionate one." He walked over to her, and took her hands into his own. She stood, numb, and eyes wide, disbelieving.
"It is not only because of these things that I come to you now, but also because I have feelings for you I have never felt before. What I am trying to say is... Celena, will you marry me?" She gaped at him, and he took advantage to lean down and kiss her gently. *AN insert fangirl "awwwwwwwwe" here* When they broke apart, he held her close in a tight embrace.
"I know it's sudden, and I know you have much to think of already. I just didn't want to go off into battle without knowing if I would ever be able to tell you how I felt. I don't expect an answer now, in fact, an immediate answer would be rash. Ruling a country has some wonderful things, but there are many things that one has to forgo, and I want you to consider carefully before answering either way. But... I need you here, by your side. Please consider my offer." He kissed her again, a more lingering kiss this time, then bade her goodnight.
She stood there trembling, not moving lest she fall, and staring off into the darkness. She looked so frail, so weak, he just wanted to go over and shake her, to tell her to snap out of it, to run after Folken and slap him and shout her stinging remarks about how foolish he was to even think she would consider his offer. But she only stood there, not about to slap anyone; not about to do anything, in fact. He had come to tell her that Anna wished to speak with her, but then came across them... Without a word to her, he turned and headed for the stables, and was off into the night.
*note- due to graphic violence and SLS' inability to properly portray it in words, last section has been removed for viewer's sake. Some might be asking, who the heck died in this chapter? Well, the answer is, Fred, the dragon. He got in the way of an extremely upset human, and would have voided the label "no animals were injured in the production of this fic" had SLS thought to put it up before. Oh well. ^_^*
AN- Well.... That took forever to write. Bleh. Things are starting to go downhill for Celena, ne? Well, not that marrying Folken would be a bad thing.... *jumps into tree away from rabid DillyXCelena fans* AHHHH!!! WAIT'LL THE STORY'S DONE BEFORE YOU COME AFTER ME!!
I was gonna write more for the dances but... no. If you wanna read a good CxDS dance fic, read Tenshi no Korin's "All the Sleepy Dancers Gone" AWESOME fic!!
Happy Valentine's day to all!! This was gonna go out on Friday, but you know what? I've decided to release it early. I might add a little something to it Fri though, so you might wanna check back... ^_^ SLS signing out, and awaiting responses!! 2-12-03