Reflections of the Heart

by Sketch

Sequel of Through the Glass. Gaea's peace is falling through again, and Celena must decide who she can trust, and what path her future will take. Please R/R! *COMPLETE!*

10. Into the Light

I'M BACK!!!!! Thanks to everyone who wished me luck, and reviewed my medical chapter… ^_^;;;; I'm feeling a lot better, though it will be awhile til I'm back to my usual self. Otakon's still a go tho, and that's all that matters, ne?? So, on w/ the real AN!!

This is the final showdown chapter, followed by the last chapter it will come fairly quickly after this and then the epilogue and AN section. A whopping 30 pages, so I hope it was worth the wait!! Lemme cut to the quick, as you all want to get reading:

1-The last chapter sucked. It will be reworked. Thanks for your patience.

2-Due to the fact that the end of this chapter is a BIG FAT FREAKING CLIFF HANGER, I will not have any usual closing comments. As such, they're going up here ^_^

3- Who're 'M and M' ?...you'll know by the end of the chapter. You'll all be like, "Damn, new character who's just there to-" Oops, saying to much.

4-One word: QUESTIONS!!!!

5- TWF was up with the ending? It needed to happen for my story to go on as I wrote it. I just hope you're not confused about what transpired...Or out for my blood... I'm depressed from writing it now, though, so excuse me while I go cry. *looks for tissues*

6- *sniff sniff* There will be one more chapter, then an AN section and epilogue. I'm hoping to have the story done by the end of July, so be sure to keep checking for chapter updates.

7-Lots of people die in this chapter..... (there's a war, what do you expect???) With all that said and done, I'm leaving. *teleports off into sanctuary to avoid violent acts against authoress.*

Into The Light

(also "Bring Me To Life"- M and M's Theme)

Dilandau looked over the battlefield, a grim expression on his face. He'd patrolled the area once when he'd been recruiting for his Dragonslayers, and at the time, the valley had been lush and fertile. A far cry from anything hospitable now, the land was charred; scarred and blistered from forces mightier than nature. Tall columns of glassy rock rose around craters formed by explosions of fiery magic. Bodies lay broken and dark upon the ground. Blood stained the earth red. And far across the wreckage, the banners of the enemy waved ominously, tucked as they were in the mountain stronghold. Even the air reeked of death; the heavy stench of decay, sweat and blood seemed to permeate every intake of breath. The wind itself moaned as though in pain, and whispered as though it was the voice of those who came to an untimely death. It was as if the earth had been mortally wounded, and now lay open and bleeding, bare to those who would finish it off. This was a place of no hope, a land of nightmares, a land of the dead.

In fact, the only slightly heartening thing he could see from the whole view was that not all carrion belonged to their side. Soldiers from the Southern Continent's army lay in muted purples and greens amidst the gold, greens, blues and oranges of Asturia, Freid, Zaibach and Daedelus. He had no doubt that the reds of Fanelia would soon match the hewn hues of the dead, but surprisingly, that did not bring him the pleasure he thought it might. The scene sickened him now, the thought of waste no longer bringing him the glee he'd once felt. Even if he had wanted to add to the destruction by burning the remains, he doubted it would change the appearance of the land.

He took one last gaze at the carnage before him, then climbed down the ladder into the trenches. He ignored the salutes of the men he passed, the scowl on his face keeping those who might have wanted to speak with him at bay. He was one of the most feared generals here in these stinking pits, though he didn't care. The awe and fear of the men he passed brought him no cheer, incurred no feeling of superiority. He didn't care if they loved or hated him. They would do as he said; what other choice had they?

A soldier from Asturia saluted, then drew aside the flap of the main tent for Dilandau to pass. He stooped down, and went through to the 'War Room' of the Allied Sides. Allen and Van looked up briefly, then turned their attention back to the battle plan laid upon the table. From the corner of the tent, Rhum and Jajuka were exchanging growls in a conversation that seemed to be over their weapons of choice, or perhaps tactics they should employ. Dilandau ignored the two latter, and moved to take a place by the two men at the table. Allen shifted to one side, though he continued his thought to Van.

"The surveys from before cannot give us the exact lay of the land. It is foolhardy to think that they have not altered those hills to suit themselves or built a bunker of some sort. We can't afford scouts to go survey the area now, Van, it's too risky. And we can't afford for you to fly overhead- too many things could go wrong, and they could shoot you down. Right now, our best chance is to wait- see what they will do and counter-attack." Van shook his head, irritably.

"We have no way to defend ourselves against that kind of attack! Our melefs are useless, and none of the technology we've got will last long enough for us to regroup and fight back. Our only chance is to throw everything we have at them at once, and hope to swarm them. There is no other way, Allen!"" Allen straightened, also irritable and cross.

"Van, we cannot go into battle so rashly! Think! They could have crushed us by now, but they haven't. Why? Because they need to regroup, to gather their strength again and rethink their strategy-"

"Exactly! Charge them now, as they are trying to rebuild their numbers. They'll be on guard, of course, but more vulnerable to attack. If we catch them while they're reorganizing, maybe we can push them back, or at least into a truce! They-!"

"Van! Your desire to run in without thinking will be your downfall!! We must try a new attack, but at a more strategic time! We must-"

They were both interrupted by Dilandau, who tossed down what was left of the General of Daedelus' helmet. The two fell silent as Dilandau spoke, pushing the melted blob to one side and picking up a pen. His face was grim, set into an expression of disgusted resolution and bitterness.

"This is what happens if we wait, Allen. Daedelus' troops are now under our direction, as their general went and got himself melted down into a metallic blob. Our troops are falling, soon we will have less than half of our original numbers. As much as I hate to admit it, I believe Van is correct. We must attack while they are reorganizing. That means we must get the men prepared and ready to strike at any moment. But attacking them completely head-on with all our force would be like flying our melefs into a mountainside on purpose. They are most heavily protected in this region." He pointed to a more accessible gap between two mountains, x-ing the spots where the main posts seemed to be.

"Their forces seem to come from here and then fan out to here, here, here and here." Again, he drew on the map, circling the destinations of the troops, then connecting the spots to create a sort of pentagon shaped area around the area that had become the enemies' stronghold.

"To top that off, it seems as though they have a strike range this wide." A rough circle encased the entire area, several inches away from the pentagon.

"However, while it seems like there is one area heavily surrounded, this area is easily susceptible to a break in defense. The mountains are lower, and easier for us to reach, if we attack before they counter." Here, he ticked off an area to the right of the pentagon, drawing a path from the mountains towards one of the posts.

"I believe that this is the only one way we'll ever have a chance of penetrating, although once the one side is attacked, the other posts are sure to give aid to the side we attack." Allen looked rather miffed being out-voted, and so pointed out the flaws as he saw them. Using the points Dilandau had drawn, he countered.

"The number of men it would take to siege this section would be more than three-fourths what we have right now, plus the fact that they would be detected before they got within a mile of the site, and then probably destroyed immediately. Moving that number of troops alone will keep us vulnerable, and they'd easily be able to send an attack of their own to our walls. It's too risky, we can't throw out so many lives that way." Van said nothing, though he nodded glumly to Allen's points. He didn't disagree with Dilandau either, he simply watched the General's smug countenance.

"That," said the young man," is where my plan comes in. We attack here, and then send in-" At that moment, Gatti ran in, face wide in surprise.

"Lord Dilandau!! Sir!! Outside, there's- Sir, please, you must hurry!!"

"What a face!! My nurse always used to tell me, if you keep the same expression on your face for too long, it'll stick and then you'll never be able to unstick it! Don't worry! Everything will be alright, you'll see. Now, come help me with this, Celena." Celena sighed, and left the window to aid Anna with the linen folding. The two were on laundry duty at the moment, cleaning blankets and clothes, and sterilizing the bandages that had been sent down with everything else. The room was hot and sticky, the smell of dirt and sweat mixed with the distinct smell of soap and added fragrances. The window was wide open, although it did little to cleanse the air of the reek. She picked up the other end of the quilt, and flapped it up before putting the corners together. She walked to Anna, giving her sister-in-law her end before picking up a smaller towel and folding it herself. The other woman smiled, tucking the folded blanket into a basket before taking down another sheet.

"Don't look so disheartened Things will work out, you'll see, and everything will get back to normal soon enough. We've just got to hope, and pray that everything will be over soon." Celena didn't answer, for what could she say? Only Folken knew what Dilandau had told her, and he had simply said that they had to trust in those who went to battle. Celena was rather miffed at him still, but he was one of the few she could speak to about the war and get any substantive feedback, so she bore with him. She didn't have to be happy about it though, she thought moodily as she snapped a pillow-cover from the line and folded it with more force than necessary. Anna laughed, reading her thoughts.

"Lord Folken is one of the things that will smooth over eventually. If you are meant to be, you'll forgive him… eventually." Celena sighed again, tossing the cover into her own basket, and pulled down a maid's dress.

"He is the least of my concerns, Anna. The world is at war, everything is at stake- how can you be so Gods-damned cheerful??" Celena emphasized Folken's unimportance by snapping the dress wrinkle-free, then briskly folding it before shoving it into the basket. Anna laughed, taking down the last sheet and folding it neatly before gently putting it on top of the abused dress.

"You must live each day as though it is your last, and simply smile when there is nothing else you can do. Ease others' pain when you can, and make sure that you leave the world a better place than you found it each day. Take this, for instance." She held up a sock, then tossed it into the roiling waters of the washtub.

"In half an hour or so, it will be cleaner than when I found it. Someone will one day appreciate my cleaning it for them. It's not important, but it's something, and that's all that matters, right?" Celena didn't answer; she was getting tired of getting philosophical speeches that didn't even remain pertinent to her question. Anna seemed to enjoy avoiding the question, or going so completely off-topic, you didn't want to start her talking again by repeating your question. And she really didn't want to hear the philosophy of a sock for the third time that week. Instead, Celena picked up her basket, and headed towards the door.

"I suppose so, Anna. With that, I go to make my mark on the world- I need to change before I go help the girls on patrol. My shift is in ten minutes, and I need to make sure I'm completely dry before I get into that uniform. I'll see you after dinner- my time's up a little before, but I promised I'd help Folken down- though I don't know if he knew I meant I'd push him down the stairs." Anna cheerfully waved her off, a 'knowing' smile on her face.

"I'm glad he's doing so well!! Only a week, and already he's walking! I don't mind, you two enjoy yourselves. And if you do push him down, make sure it's on a bed, and not the cold flagstones! They aren't very comfortable for either involved!!" Celena turned, deciding to ignore the innuendo of Anna's last remark, and tried NOT to think of her brother and sister-in-law. She opted for rolling her eyes before pushing the door open.

"I enjoy helping him hobble around about as much as I enjoy latrine patrol…" She muttered this under her breath, saying goodbye to Anna a bit louder. The door shut with a click, and Celena shook her head again. Folken would have to do a lot more than say he was joking to get her to even think about him romantically again. She started down the hall, heading up to the main hall to find a maid to give the blankets and linens to.

After turning a corner though, she dropped her basket, clutching at her heart. She gasped and put a hand to the wall, steadying herself while she tried to clear the blackness that accompanied the throbbing pain. She panted, trying to control her thoughts, and wondered what was going on. Was she sick? Had she injured herself somehow? What about-Oh Gods, no! She leaned against the wall, mind frantic.

Dilandau?? Dilandau, are you alright? An angry, though fuzzy response.

//Damn, Celena, I'm fine. You're giving me a bloody migraine, contacting me so far away. Leave me alone woman, I'm busy!// With that, he was gone, and while she was relieved that he was alright, she felt wounded by his lack of concern. It wasn't her fault that she hadn't had anything earth shattering to say to him when he'd said all those things to her, and she was just as stressed about the war as he was. If she'd been allowed to fight- she pushed the thought aside, gathering the clothes again. She couldn't think like that. Put them out of her mind, and hope for the best. Think of something else, like why she almost had a heart attack, and she was in perfect health. The pain hadn't bothered her as much as the fact that it was fading quickly, and the fact that Dilandau hadn't felt anything out of the ordinary. There was nothing to do about it though, so she stood straight again, and walked the few halls left to the main room. Dropping off her load to one of the women, she headed towards her room, pondering what had occurred, and trying to shake off her unease.

Outside the palace, a shadowy figure stood at attention. Behind him was his army, and ahead of him was what would be his swift victory. Had he been of a darker manner, he would have laughed at his pathetic victims, using the full moon as a perfect backdrop to a chilling scene. His mouth was a grim line though, his expression remorseful determination. There would be either a quick surrender, or a bloodbath as this land had never seen. Whatever it was, he would be the one in charge in the end. He would not lose to these weaklings, not now, not ever. His men behind him shifted, anxious to charge with his command. He ignored them, however. He would wait until the time was right. Things had to go as planned.

He shifted slightly, mouth going into a frown. She was strong, she'd fought him and remained conscious, but he'd only been toying with her. She could not interfere, his magic would see to that. He wouldn't let her get hurt, not after he'd promised that both to her and himself. She would not come to harm.

With an inaudible sigh, Mryth stood, watching the castle and the fog that began to curl around its base, waiting for the time to strike.

Dilandau didn't want to seem like he hoped this was the end.

All around him, men were already celebrating what they thought would be their victory. Some patted each other, already spinning tales to tell back home around the fires at night, secure and snug in their homes. Others shared Dilandau's manner, cautious suspicion, not wanting to get their hopes up.

Whatever their feeling, all stared ahead as the small procession of green and purple came nearer, bearing the white flag of peace. Dilandau looked to Allen and Van, who seemed equally as suspicious. The two gripped their swords tightly, teeth grit and expressions angry. Dilandau's attention went to the side, and he barked out orders to four of the men near him.

"You, you, you and you! Come with me!" They nodded, falling in line behind him. Van and Allen stepped in behind, nodding to some of the generals to stand at attention while they went with Dilandau. All watched as they passed over the trench's lip, passing the guymelefs that stood guard to the field. The small peace group stopped, and the three leaders walked to meet them, the men following behind. When they reached the three before them, they stopped, frown visible on Dilandau's face as he took the lead position. Then, the figure in front of him lifted the hood of the heavy cloak, and he had to fight from keeping his startled expression from showing.

Before him was a woman of slight proportions, no taller than Merle, in fact. She had wide eyes that sparkled like amethyst, and a band of purple and green across her forehead. Her face was as pale as her silver hair, braided but for two bangs, which were wrapped in threads of purple, green and gold. Her uniform was a copy of that he had last seen two weeks ago on Mryth, all the way down to the drag-energists on her wrists. She gave the white flag to the man behind her, and turned to bow before them. She brought up her hands as she rose, crossing them and fanning her fingers in a foreign salute of sorts. She smiled, and a sharp intake of breathe could be heard from behind Dilandau.

"Greetings. I am Fiona of the Magliss, and am sent on a mission of peace to agree on terms of settlement. We wish for no more fighting; enough blood has been shed this and all days. Do you not agree?" She smiled again, though Dilandau remained silent. She didn't seem to notice, though, as she continued easily.

"I am sure it is redundant of me to say that you are utterly outnumbered and outclassed in your forces. You must know that we can crush you upon a whim at any moment. Therefore, we propose a truce." Dilandau growled under his breath, though she pretended not to hear.

"And what is this proposal?" She smiled again, all charm and friendliness in her demeanor.

"You must lay down your arms, and swear your allegiance to us. We will not punish you for this trivial uprising, we are most forgiving. Your battle leaders must come and hand themselves over to us, and then send word to your kings and queens that the war is over, and that the sorcerers are now in command. You will be treated fairly, have no fear." She gave them another warm smile, although Dilandau again did not falter in his frown.

"How long do we have to decide?" Her smiled faltered, but only for a moment.

"I do not see why you must think over this at all, it is an easy enough decision-"

"I must go over the agreement with the others. We will need time to discuss how we will respond to such an offer." Her smile seemed much more strained, though she did keep it.

"I am sure I already know the answer that your others will give, however, the sorcerers are willing to wait three hours. Such will give you ample time to contact your royalty and get their official surrenders. Let them know that to refuse such a generous offer will only end in one thing. Let one man be an example." She beckoned the man who stood to Dilandau's right, and he fell forward, as though being pulled by an unseen force. His eyes were wide with fear, and she smiled again. Dilandau went cold as he saw the cruel look she gave to her helpless victim, though he stood rigid and unmoving.

"There is no need for an example. The field itself is proof of what you can do." She looked up at him, a cheerful smile back on her face.

"You are, of course, correct. However, I feel I need to reinforce our position." With that, she threw the soldier to the side, and brought her hand suddenly to the left, in front of the face of the man that stood there. He gasped in surprise as her hand began to glow, shouting,

"No, my lady-!!" And was gone with a purple gust of wind. She took back the flag from the remaining man, who was as white as the cloth he held. She smiled again.

"That is what happens to those who oppose-or, in the case of that fool- question us. I accept your defeat in this place in three hours." With that, she turned and walked off, leaving the smoking pile of what was once of her soldiers behind her. Dilandau stood watching her for a moment, stunned, then pushed the men back towards the camp. He glanced at Allen and Van, who remained rather pale and shaken in their spots. They shook themselves, however, and followed behind Dilandau's men, talking quietly between themselves.

"You, you, go now, and tell the others to prepare for an attack. They have three hours." He headed back to the camp ignoring the two behind him, thoughts racing fora solution. He was nearly through figuring out how to cut down on time spent preparing when his thoughts were interrupted by an almost hysteric,

Dilandau?? Dilandau, are you alright?? Curse her, he didn't need anything else to set his head spinning. The distance between them made the connection weak, although her upset manner could clearly be felt. He didn't think he'd projected his feelings, but even if he had, she should have left him alone! He responded gruffly as he swung over the edge of the trench.

//Damn, Celena, I'm fine. You're giving me a bloody migraine, contacting me so far away. Leave me alone woman, I'm busy! // She faded from his thoughts then, and he pushed his way through to the tent. Allen and Van, now down in the trench and having summoned the new leader of Daedelus, followed mutely. They had only three hours to plan and prepare for a retaliation.

Celena sighed, ducking quickly to get under Zaibach's mighty Emperor's arm before he fell flat on his face.

"You really ought to let me push you in a chair, Folken. You're far to obstinate for your own good, and it would serve you right if you tripped down the stairs and split your head open on the floor. Oh for the love of- here, lean on me." Both uttered grunts as Folken shifted his bulk onto her shoulder, although to give Celena credit, hers came out more as an intake of air with a bit of noise behind it. Folken, despite his many medications, let out one of pain, or what could have been his denial in the need for assistance. Celena, already irked that she was missing dinner for a man that had pissed her off little more than a week ago, decided tact was not needed in this situation, as he could hardly tell her to go, or he would go down the stairs uncomfortably. She went into the routine that they had both settled into; jesting indignation, and prodding remarks.

"Oh, stop being such a baby! Suck it up, and let's go! I'm hungry." He flinched a grin down at her, and she flushed, though she told herself it was her anger, nothing else. Damn him for getting to her, all he deserved from her was a kick in the gut and a push down the stairs, after insulting her pride like that. She forced herself to clear her minds of murdering the monarch when he spoke again.

"Heavens help me if I keep you from your meal. Simply remember whose hospitality it is that supplies your sup."

"I cannot forget, as you remind me every chance, your excellence." She said this in one of her sugary tones, and Folken feigned alarm.

"Such a temper, my lady! See that you curb it, or I might call my guards and have you imprisoned. And they are hardly a place for such an exquisite creature such as yourself." Celena couldn't choke back the laugh that boiled up, and she shifted as they reached the landing.

"I wish you'd thought of that before you'd had me assigned to patrol them. I know exactly what state they are in, thanks to my route. I'm happy to report they are presently rat free. Isn't it amazing what a few cats wandering about can do?" Folken shook his head, and stood, albeit painfully, by himself. She raised an eyebrow, but he motioned for the cane she carried, and she handed it over.

"I admit, it was a stroke of genius, Celena. I'm surprised no one had thought of it before, to be honest. I suppose it's because no one ever really had to be down there for any length of time…" He gave her one of his rare actual grins, a twinkle in his eye.

"You do know, of course, I had the patrol created especially for you?" She rolled her eyes and ignored him, deciding she liked joking with him more than trying to figure out where their romance stood. A quiet sound behind them made her turn, and Elise stepped from the shadows. Celena smiled at the girl, and motioned her over. Looking at Folken, she raised an eyebrow.

"Think you'll be alright without my shoulder?" Turning to Elise, she smiled. "Are you alright, if I leave him to you? I can send someone else to help." Elise's smile and shake of the head was joined by Folken assuring her they would be alright, his humor gone from his tone. Celena paused, but the two didn't move, so she sighed and bid them goodbye.

Walking down the stairs, Celena wondered if things between herself and Folken would ever be right again. She frowned as she saw the corridor for the dining hall, although she found her appetite strangely disappearing. In its stead, her stomach roiled, complaining not for food, but at the thought of it. Finding this odd, she chose to try to walk off her sudden sickness, taking instead a path towards the battlements. She thought that perhaps the night air might clear her head, and maybe allow her a chance to think in peace alone. She was just thinking how wonderful it would be to have some time to herself when her thoughts were interrupted by her dear sister-in-law.

"Celena! There you are! I was getting worried When you didn't show for dinner after Lord Folken entered, I was afraid something had happened. What the devil are you doing here? Isn't this the way to the roof?" Celena sighed mentally, although she smiled slightly. Anna would keep her from thinking, simply because she wouldn't have to in a 'conversation' with the Queen.

"It is. I'm not feeling well, and I thought some air might improve my appetite. You're welcome to join me, though it will hardly be an exhilarating walk." Anna stopped to ponder this, cocking her head to one side in thought. Celena kept herself from laughing when she saw the very Millerna-like pose Anna struck, although she did allow her smile to broaden a bit. Anna did not see this, however, as she was caught up in thinking. Then, suddenly, she brightened, and nodded enthusiastically.

"I would like that, I think. That is, if you don't mind." Celena gave her a wry smile.

"I wouldn't have asked if I minded. I'm afraid, though, that I won't be good company. I've got much on my mind tonight. Perhaps that is why I'm feeling a bit unwell." Anna perked up at this, a suspicious and very mischievous glint in her eyes.

"Did your relations with our dear host go further than you let on? How intimate did you and Lord Folken become? Should I have a healer come to-"

"No! For Gods' sakes, Anna, don't even say it. Can you imagine the damage the rumors would cause to both our reputations? We have done no such thing, thank you, and I would be happy if you put such thoughts to rest. I am good friends with him, and nothing else. I intend to keep it that way."

"Do you?" Celena sent her 'sister' a glare, which got a tittering laugh.

"I'm joking, Celena! I'm sorry, I just wanted to tease a little, no harm was meant." Celena sighed audibly, though did not respond. The gnawing in her stomach was getting more intense, though now it was more of a pulsing chill rising inside. She nodded curtly to the guards on duty, an the two passed out onto the walkway, coming to a stop by the wall. In silence, they observed the quiet city below, twinkling in the darkness that seemed to cloak the castle. A mist was beginning to curl in and about the base of the palace, a bank of fog beginning to build. Celena absently noted an odd smell in the air, one she knew, but could not place for the life of her. Though Anna seemed uninterested in the scene, she did not speak to break the silence.

"Do you think they really have a chance?" Celena was just as startled as Anna when she spoke out loud, although the other woman did not seem to notice it was by mistake. Anna gave a smile.

"We cannot give up, we must keep our spirits-"

"Enough moralizing! What do you think? Do you think that we were right to send them off into the unknown like that, blindly praying for a miracle?? Anna, why did it have to come to this? Wasn't everyone tired of all the pain war inflicts? Why must we fight again? Will the suffering of those we love stop, even if we do win? I'm afraid Anna. This is one of the few times I will admit that I fear for myself and those I love. I feel as though I'm in the darkness that envelopes me, and my light is all but snuffed out. How can you go on, when the darkness blinds you from your path?" Anna stood quietly, and Celena's stomach flip-flopped in the heat of the moment. She ignored the pain, staring out into the dark night.

"It isn't easy. But I believe that everything happens for a reason. Sometimes our life seems as though there is nothing left, and that there will be no light ahead again. I felt that way when Papa died, and I was left with the sorcerers, alone and outnumbered. I admit, I stumbled along, not knowing what to do, or where to go." She smiled into the growing fog, oblivious to all because she was so deeply entranced in her thoughts. "And then, I found my light at last. Do you know what it was?" She turned to Celena, who shook her head.

"It was Allen. When I walked down the ramp that morning, I knew that I would never be the same again. His smile makes me feel as though there is nothing in the world except the two of us, and his laugh melts me into the most wonderful goo-like state, like... Like warm butter, I guess. He's what makes my life in these troubled times happy. I go on, because I know that while he's gone, he thinks of me as I do him. We are each other's inspiration to go on, and battle with the demons both in front and inside of us in the hopes of being reunited after all has passed. I manage because I know that if I fail, then Allen will as well. Even if the war ends with us all enslaved by the sorcerers, I will continue to go on, because it is what Allen wants me to do.

"Don't give up hope, Celena. I know you are too strong to give in to the dark, and that you'll find your light if you keep going. Even if it isn't Folken, or Dilandau, or anyone you know, you'll find it eventually. You've got to keep your spirits up, though. Just keep your head high, and you will succeed." Celena's reply was cut off by a derisive snort from behind.

"That's a crock of bullshit, Princess, and we all know it. The only way to go on is to fight, and make those that are weak follow you. What your dear sister is saying, Celena, is that we're al doomed, but she'll take it like a lady because that's how she was bred to act. But you and I are different. We'll go out fighting, because that's what we strive on. It's only a matter of time before the Magliss stop toying with the troops and come here to strike. I will be here to die in style. How about you?"

Celena turned, angry that she both missed the blonde's approaching footsteps, and at her impertinent words. Her hand went instinctively to her belt, though she didn't draw the blade that hung ready. Refina walked closer, laughing at the gesture.

"See what I mean? Even in times of relative peace, you go to your sword. The Princess might be willing to bow down, but I won't go down so easily. Neither will you." Celena shouted out, enraged.

"Refina! It's people like you who make this fighting continue! Maybe a retreat or surrender is the way to stop this war. I admit, it isn't a tactic I wish to follow, but I won't throw my life away in vain!" Refina growled, teeth bared.

"I see, so you let Lord Dilandau go throw away his life when you're willing to live enslaved?? How do you even think you deserve him??" Celena stepped back, completely taken aback by this attack. Refina continued, eyes flashing in bitter contempt and rage.

"Why? Why did he choose a fool like you? You toy with his heart, refuse him what he wants, insult him, smatter his name in the dirt, and yet he never once looked elsewhere! He kissed you, and you smacked him. You've done everything you can to hurt him, and he lets you! You walk all over him, and he accepts it as his lot in life! If you were to tell the world he was nothing but scum, he'd still go on each day, living his life for you!

"I thought that when he saw how you ignored his letters and blocked his summons, he would see how you care nothing for him. But he kept mooning away for you- the others might not have seen it, but I did. I watched him, but he never glanced my way. What do you have that I don't??" For once, Celena did not immediately respond with an immediate comeback, listing all she had the other blonde did not. Her eyes narrowed though, the full extent of what the captain had said sinking in.

"You. You blocked our messages, kept us from contacting each other?? What right did you have-"

"I had every right! I love him, and you threw him to the side because he wasn't good enough for you! He let go of his pride, telling you that you were his only weakness, and you threw it in his face! And now, he probably won't come back. Not for you, and certainly not for me. You drove him to this suicidal mission, and you'll let his sacrifice go to waste. And you wonder why I despise you!" Refina was on the brink of tears, although Celena stood with her mouth gaping, not having any response to clear her name. Though Refina wasn't right about her throwing Dilandau to the wayside, the other points made her stop and doubt herself. It was that pause that saved them, because Celena's subconscious suddenly recalled the odd smell that hung in the air. She turned to Refina, all anger fled as fear filled her empty and complaining stomach.

"Refina, where is Lord Folken??" Refina was taken aback by this, answering dumbly.

"He's in the main hall, there was a group of refugees that arrived from the front and-" Celena bolted down the stairs, shouting for the two to follow.

"Hurry, we've got to make sure he's alright! The Castle is under attack!! There's a smell of magic in the air!!" Too late, they realized that the stairs were not as empty as they'd thought. The guards who had been on duty were now slumped against the stone wall, blood trickling out of their mouths. Their assassins stood above them, blades drawn and dripping. The three women skidded to a halt, drawing their meager weapons in defense. Seven men garbed in muted greens and purple stood before them, expressions grim. Celena pushed Anna behind her, and got into fighting stance even as Refina mimicked her to the right. Celena sent the other soldier a glance.

"You know I hate you, right?" Refina smirked.

"Feelings mutual, I assure you."

"But, in our current situation, I propose a truce. Til we get to Folken, that is. Your butt for mine. Plus, keeping my sister-in-law safe. Deal?"

"Deal. Let's kick some Mage arse!!"

Ten minutes later, they were running down the halls, avoiding those they could, stopping those they couldn't. It seemed remarkably easy, and Celena's fears grew as they neared the throne room. It had to be a trap. They had been left alone, for the most part, and invading armies did not leave open paths leading directly to the heart of the operation. She called the others to a halt close to the throne room, where they all stood panting, adrenaline pumping furiously. Refina wiped a smear of blood from her cheek, her voice a hoarse whisper.

"It's too quiet. We're going to get slaughtered when we go in. What do you think we should do?" Celena flicked blood from her blade, glancing at Anna before replying softly.

"We haven't got a choice. Folken is in there, and I promised Dilandau and the boys I'd watch over him. I can't go back on my word. Besides, nowhere else to go now, is there?" Refina's frown deepened, though she said nothing. Nodding, she stepped forward, blade ready and wary. Anna walked behind Celena, who handed her another dagger wordlessly. The three ran to the door, and between Celena and Refina, the door was kicked in with a resounding BANG! Their suspicions were confirmed when they found Folken with the rest of the Hikaris bound on the floor, men in muted green and purple uniforms standing guard. And sitting nonchalantly in the chair was Mryth, captain of the Magliss.

Allen paced back and forth, nervous with the venture they were about to partake in. It was suicide, he was sure of it, but it was the best planned suicide they'd come up with. Damn Dilandau and his superior battle tactics anyway! The said bastard was making sure the last units were sure of their timing, looking rather confident in his plans. If only everyone else felt the same way, they'd all have a much higher morale. Glimpsing up at the sun, he noted the time. Five minutes. Then, they should see the smoke of the attack Van was leading to the west.

Once again, he wondered why he had been chosen to come and meet the psychotic female Magliss captain when Dilandau was obviously more like her than himself. He was good at charming women, but he didn't flirt with women who could blow his head off with a flick of the wrist. He began pacing again, trying to think happy thoughts as the woman that would be responsible for his death started to walk towards him, flag once again raised. His angel of death approached, and he was not a happy camper because of it.

Right, happy thoughts. Celena, playing with the cat. Celena, happily tending to her garden, Celena, almost burning the house down- No! Happy thoughts! Anna. Anna smiling. Anna beckining him to the bed. Anna, ripping off her-

"Have you the documents of your surrender?" His head snapped up, and he was very much aware of the flush in his face. He only hoped that she wouldn't get angry at him and blow him to bits before he could stall her another few minutes. He had been caught unawares, but he was an expert at these things. He slipped into his seductive mode, willing his voice to a purr and his smile to 'I'm dead sexy and you know you want me' mode.

"I'm afraid there has been a hold up in the communications, Lady Fiona. The man you spoke with before is doing the best he can to get in contact with our royals, but in the meantime, I am sent to apologize for the delay." She raised an eyebrow, and Allen felt her try to read him as she stared, openly suspicious. She gazed at him for a few more moments, until she decided to speak again.

"You know, Knight, I can spend the time we spend together productively. Have you a wife, or a lover?" He must have shown surprise on his face, because she smiled, stepping closer to him with a seductive smile of her own on her face.

"You know," she whispered when they were only a few feet apart, "that I could strip-" With this, she played with his collar, running her fingers along the very edge, "your mind into little tiny pieces without having to injure you in anyway, don't you?" He gulped, stepping back awkwardly, although she didn't seem to notice.

"I could pull apart your mind, piece by piece, layer by layer, until I found out what it was you are lying to me about. However," she sighed and glanced at her fingernails. "I have no time for fun, and I do not believe my beloved would like me to do anything of the sort. Now, we can spare a long and painful interrogation, or you can tell me what, exactly, the other two men who were with you earlier are doing. You can't seduce me properly because you're head over heels for someone else. Will you be a dear and tell me the truth?" She smiled at him, and he felt his blood go cold, gulping as he searched for some way to distract her.

"My Lady, I insist that it is the truth-" A large explosion followed by shouts of surprise interrupted his feeble attempt at a lie, and he glanced gratefully at Van's distraction as he turned to see his own men come charging over the trenches. Turning back, he found the woman's knife already halfway through his chest before he could draw his own weapon.

Van flew ahead of the other melefs, Escaflowne in it's dragon-form roaring a battle cry as it flew down towards the smoking rubble heap that had been a watch tower. More and more of the melefs flew out of the now-visible flying fortress, although as they landed, they immediately disappeared again. He circled above, looking for a place to land without risking landing on any of the grounded troops. Before diving down to a section that seemed to be devoid of any movement, he chanced a glance over at Allen's ranks, which were pouring out of the trenches like water over the brim of a cup. The four different units would attack at different angles at the front section, and under Allen's guidance, Van felt they probably had some sort of chance. He would do what he could and weaken the side's barrier, and try to fight his way to the entrance to let the troops in. Dilandau might have had a suicidal idea, but so far, it seemed the surprise element was succeeding. As he swooped down to join the foray, he could only hope that Dilandau's own little hunting party was causing less notice than the other two attacks.

Celena fell hard to the floor, though she was able to push herself up painfully. Mryth shouted something to the man that had thrown her, and the man bowed before leaving in a rush. Celena glared angrily at the pale man standing before her, feeling both angry and betrayed. How could she have ever trusted him? She had stood up for him when Dilandau had called him things, and she'd tried to befriend him, since no one else would. And how was she repaid??

He walked over to her, and knelt down, undoing the ties on her wrists without comment. As soon as one of her hands was free, she brought it painfully across his face. His head remained to the side, eyes closed, although he finished untying her before getting up again. Five long lines stood out on his pale skin, and her own hand began to sting from the contact. She didn't regret her action, however, and continued to glare at him, even as he looked down at her impassively. When he did speak, his voice held no anger, only apology.

"You must forgive the soldiers, Lady Schezar. I did tell them you were to remain untouched, but they were seized in the moment. I hope that you kan forgive them, or at least, not attack them next time you see them. They were just following orders." He looked her up and down, frowning as he saw the results of the fights she'd engaged in to get to the throne room. "I told them no harm was to kome to you. I will see to it that they are punished. But for now...." With a flick of his wrist, Celena felt the stinging sensations of the few cuts the raiders had managed close and disappear, but not without feeling anger boil within her again. As he walked away, she forced herself up, swaying slightly.

"It was you! You were the one who made me almost collapse earlier! And the stink of magic that's all around here- I thought there might be more than one of you Magliss, but being this close, I can tell it's only you. Tell me, how long have you been waiting to betray us??" She went over to Folken, helping him sit up and trying to untie his bonds, but to no avail. Mryth watched, bemused, before enlightening her.

"The ropes are sealed by magic, Lady Celena. No amount of your fiddling will make them kome loose. And yes, earlier I tried to bring you down with a simple sleep spell. You did not fall, however, which is impressive, tp say the least." Celena scowled at him, shifting Folken's weight again to try to make him more comfortable. She looked over to Anna and Refina, the latter sulking and glaring at her from the group of girls that she'd been tossed into. Anna seemed the only one rather non-plussed; she sat up straight on the floor, and her hair had fallen out into a flattering display that Celena grudgingly thought she'd never be able to arrange, no matter how many hours she sat in front of the mirror. The queen watched her captor cooly, no panic to be sensed in her. Celena wondered if it was because she'd been taught to expect kidnaping at least once, or if she really was too dense to understand their situation. However, the red-head broke out into a smile, surprising all with her words.

"You really do love her, don't you Mryth?" He actually blinked several minutes, mouth agape and complete confusion and disbelief in his wide eyes. Then, he threw back his head, and heartily laughed, wiping at his eyes with the back of a hand. When he'd calmed himself back to his usual stoic self, he still had a slight smile upon his face.

"I kare for the Lady Schezar a great deal, your majesty, but not in the sense that you think." Anna shook her head, still smiling.

"No, no Mryth. I wasn't speaking of Celena. I can tell you like her, but not why. I can only assume that it is because she looks like someone you love- or loved- very much, and you wish to keep her safe because of it. You'd go to any lengths to keep someone who looks like her safe, no matter the consequences or her allegiances. Am I wrong in my assumption?" Mryth's mirth stilled, and he watched Anna with sharp purple eyes. For a moment he said nothing, then he turned and went back to the throne, throwing himself on it like a sulking child. Celena wondered if he'd just ignore the question, but when he turned his brooding stare on her, she gulped, and his eyes softened fractionally-although only for a minute.

"No, you are not wrong." His voice was soft, although it carried far in the silent room, echoing off the high ceiling and marble walls. He said no more, although he continued to look at Celena. The room fell into an uncomfortable silence, although Anna seemed like she wanted to go on interrogating him. He gave her a look though, and she stilled. Celena idly wondered if everyone had already been captured and were in the same state as they were- captured, and awaiting judgment. It was when her thoughts were playing a scene of complete surrender of the troops that Mryth spoke again, voice still

soft.

"We have time before my next orders come. Would you like to hear a story?" Anna immediately shouted out her response.

"Tell us what you are, and why you're toying with us!! It's obvious you're stronger than us, why not just get it over with and save more lives?? " Mryth ignored her, however, and looked at Celena.

"My lady?" Celena looked at him, and a small smile parted her lips.

"I think," she replied dryly, "that I would like to hear of this woman whom you would go so far as to save another who looked like her. She is obviously a deep part of your being, and is part of what and who you are. Tell us who she was or is, and we will know who you are." Mryth smiled, an actual glimmer of warmth returning to his eyes.

"That is one of the wisest questions I have heard in all my existence, Lady Schezar. Very well. A history of the lady in question is a history of the Magliss, and that is a history of myself as well. It is also the key to my undoing, so you'd best pay attention, for I will speak it only once.

"It all began long ago, in a fair kity far from my home..."

Chesta shifted in his spot, his cloak making him invisible to the men guarding the turrets above. Lord Dilandau was ahead, watching the sky intently for Van's signal to move. Around him, his fellow Slayers waited for Dilandau to move; to gesture them ahead in silence. Chesta was uneasy, not because of battle, but because of the way they were to fight it this time. Complete stealth had never been a tactic Lord Dilandau had wanted them to use; either they snuck up on the enemy then attacked, or they charged ahead with the hopes of intimidating. But never simply the intention to sneak in, and not

attack- never had they snuck in to attack a single target. Lord Dilandau's plan made him uneasy; the lack of a destructive wake behind their leader did not seem normal. But, Lord Dilandau knew what he was doing, and he trusted him with his life. They all did, or they would not be his soldiers. Dilandau shifted back part of the stealth-cloak he wore to reveal the lower part of his face.

"The sign should be any minute now. Remember, any sound and you've given us away. That means we're all dead, and your families and friends as well. Once we're in, shift to the side. There should be something that looks like its guarded the most, so head for that. If you're caught, we won't be able to help you. Leave any who are caught behind. Our mission is to destroy the power source, and then aid Van's troops in tearing down the gates." A BOOM sounded at the end of his sentence, resonating from the surrounding mountain peaks. Dilandau watched the men above scramble about, then nodded to his men.

"There's the signal. Good luck men. Now, activate your sight-scopes and follow me." A low murmur of assent went through the boys, and a shifting sound that indicated they were activating their head gear. Dilandau activated his own unit, and after a green glow over his on covered eye, the figures of his men came into view. He waited until they all nodded their heads, and they hurried out of the trees they'd used as shelter for their movements.

Getting into the fortress was easier than they'd planned; with Van distracting the inhabitants on the other side, the wall attendants on this side were sadly remiss in their watching the small supply door below. It was opened after only a few seconds of being picked, and the group filed in. The door was then re-fastened, and they were locked in amidst the enemy.

Dilandau's eyes scanned the scenery, skipping over the tents to see if any attention was directed their way. No soldiers were even glancing at the back entrance though; all extra hands were attempting to fend off the large machines that seemed to rain from the sky on the far side of the garrison. Dilandau knew that while they might be temporarily shocked into stupidity, they would quickly recover and think about the other strong points of their hold. He motioned the men on, staying close to the sides of tents and wagons, avoiding any soldier that ran past them in disarray. It wouldn't have mattered if they'd shouted, the sounds were so deafening; still, they said nothing, simply followed him to wherever he'd lead.

In some part of his mind, he'd wondered how he'd know where the power source of the army was. But something inside him guided him, drawing him towards a quieter end of the camp, seemingly remote and unused. The heavy scent of magic hung in the air, electrifying his senses and putting his hair on end. Unbidden, memories of the last time he'd felt and tasted the such dark magic came to mind, although he pushed them aside, concentrating on the task at hand. Rusent was dead, body gone and magic no longer killing innocents.

He stopped suddenly, senses alert and the magic so condensed it was now slightly visible; streams of energy pulsated in the air around them, like fireflies with long ribbon tails of purple light. He raised a hand, and his men halted behind him, no doubt feeling the same things he did. All attention was on the cave entrance below, lit by the purple energy flies. And, on the two men who stood guard outside, blades drawn and glaring directly at them.

"She was high Priestess of the kity, and as such she had much responsibility. She was fair and just, and all of her people loved her. She was young, though, and susceptible to emotions not befitting a High Priestess of the order. She was not to fall in love; when she married, it would be to a High Priest from another province, as befitted her title. We were a wedding present, sent in advance to protect her, before she married the High Priest of Athens.

"When we first met, she was naive and unfamiliar with the kruel ways of the world outside. Unfortunately, she quickly learned what is was truly like. Soon after our arrival, the unrestful people of her kity rose up, saying she was responsible for the sorrows of the land. Saying she was a kurse to the kity of Atlantis-"

"You're from Atlantis?? But it was destroyed over two thousand years ago!!" Mryth gave Anna a dirty look, although he ignored her and continued on with his lecture.

" -saying she was a kurse to the kity of Atlantis, despite the fact that she had only been in power for only a short while. The kity was bound to fail at some point, but she had the misfortune to be the last Priestess in power when the Gods finally had had enough. They let their rage out over the entire kity, kompletely burning it to the ground." He fell silent, a troubled look on his face. Celena delicately decided to prod, as she had not gotten the information of how to destroy the Magliss.

"In the meantime, you fell in love with her, even though you both knew it was doomed from the start." He smiled sadly, letting out a half-hearted laugh.

"Yes. We loved each other. My oath of a soldier was to protect her for as long as she needed it, in life and death. My oath as a lover was to ensure no one would ever make her unhappy again, myself included. However, I failed in both.

"I died before I could get her out of the palace, and then she refused to allow anyone to help her to safety. She died soon after myself, when the roof kaved in." He saw Anna start to speak, and a bitter smile came to his face.

"And yet, you wish to ask, how am I still here? I kan say it was not my khoice, nor any of the other's. But I kame because they brought her back, and I would not allow her to be hurt again." Folken shifted minutely, face pale, although contemplative.

"So, they succeeded... I thought they'd given up the regeneration project..." Celena gasped, a feeling of horror coming over her.

"You knew?? You knew they were trying to bring people back from the dead?? " Folken smiled, a cynical expression on his face.

"Celena, I was in the research and testing branch of the sorcerer's projects, and I heard much of what they did through word of mouth. I knew all that was going on, though I did not approve of much of the activity in which the sorcerers partook. If it was not for that research, however, neither Dilandau, myself, nor any of the Slayers would be here- they upset the power of Atlantis enough for you to be able to make a wish. Did you ever think of that?" She remained silent, stewing that over in silence. He continued, frowning slightly as he thought.

"But, after the projects continually failed, they finally gave it up." He smirked, albeit momentarily. "Actually, it was the failed attempt of your gene combination experiment that ended the project completely. Dilandau's.... mental alteration proved to be the last straw, and Dornkirk decreed we wasted too much time on a project that created unstable subjects. It didn't matter that he would prove to be one of their best soldiers, too many people had been forced into insanity before his 'success'." He turned his attention back to Mryth, the frown on his face more pronounced.

"How is it they succeeded at last? And why attempt it again in the first place?" Mryth looked just as unhappy as Folken at the mention of the sorcerers, though he sat up a bit straighter to answer.

"A krew down in the Southern kolonies found what looked to be a gateway, although it seemed locked fast by magic. They had no idea how to activate it, not until the sorcerers took kontrol. They recognized it as once as a portal to Atlantis, and spent over a half a year figuring out the spell to release the lock. When they went inside, they found the ruins of the kity, and in them, the tomb of Mythennielle."

"Mythennielle? Was that the name of your priestess?" Mryth nodded, and he went on, anger flickering in his eyes.

"They desecrated her grave, and took her bones to one of their research laboratories. We were awoken as soon as they'd entered the tomb, however, we had no korporal form with which to keep them at bay. We followed them instead, to make sure they would not do anything to harm the Lady. We didn't know what they were doing until it was too late." His fingers tightened on the chair's arms, knuckles white with anger.

"I watched, as they performed all sorts of tests and things on her remains. It seemed as though they wanted to know everything about her before they progressed any farther. When they seemed satisfied, we thought they'd return her to her resting place and we kould return as well- but then, they performed the spell.

"They had a doppelganger there, who was used as a sacrificial body. They... They kast a spell over her bones, and the doppelganger shifted... Mythennielle's spirit was forced into the doppelganger, and she was alive once again. She was pale and subdued, whereas when she was priestess, she was dark haired and lively. She was still beautiful, though... As she is now, you look like her, Miss Schezar, although she lacks your vitality.

"We tried to stop them from touching her, we killed a few of the vile men, but we were no match in our ghostly form. They threatened to kompletely destroy her-spirit and all- so we kouldn't do anything. We kame to a kompromise, because we would not rest until Mythenniellle was safe.

"There were seven of us, so seven of the sorcerers provided us with flesh to possess. We would exist only to protect Mythennielle, and we would disappear in death again in her defense. In return, the sorcerers had our loyalty- we would not attack them, else they destroyed Mythennielle. Our 'guardian' sorcerer would be in kharge of keeping us in line, and as long as he lived, our body would remain intact and invincible. We were immortal." He smiled again, an expression of triumph on his face.

"I tell you this, because in part you are responsible for my partial freedom and mortality, Miss Celena. When you sent Dilandau after the sorcerer that tried to destroy him, he nearly succeeded in freeing me and giving me my mortality again, if only for a short while. Alas, he did not find the head of the sorcerer, and as such, I am still here now. I feel pain, and I bleed, but I kannot die, not yet."

Celena stood, gazing at him fully, starting to understand what he was saying, and suggesting. He watched her as well, a slight smile playing across his lips.

"Because Dilandau did not completely destroy Rusent's body, you are trapped here, as a freed puppet. You can walk almost completely on your own accord, which is one of the reasons you were sent as ambassador. Your sorcerer is gone, therefore you can travel farther from your home-base than those with healthy sorcerers." Mryth nodded, and Celena went on, starting to take a step towards him.

"You could have destroyed the head yourself, because you must know where it is. You have magic, and could quickly find it, even if it didn't stink to high heaven. But you didn't. You stayed because Mythennielle is still trapped here, and the portal to Atlantis is still open." He nodded, sneering slightly.

"My duty is to the Lady Mythennielle, and no other. In fact, I grow weary of this kharade." He flicked his wrist, and the ropes upon the prisoners fell away, then disappeared. A sigh of relief came from some of the girls, while Refina and Anna helped Folken to stand. Celena walked to Mryth, coming to a stop in front of him. He stood and looked down at her, his approval obvious, though he said nothing to that effect.

"I am glad to have met you, Lady Celena. I am happy to know that the magic of Atlantis that they tried to force into you backfired on them, and made you the kompassionate woman you are. I know that Mythennielle's magic must have run through your blood at one time, as my own once ran through Dilandau's." Celena smirked, a laugh in her voice.

"I told him that you reminded me of him, but he didn't believe me." She then grew serious, gazing at him thoughtfully.

" But... if you're an Atlantean, or at least, you became a citizen of Atlantis, don't you have wings? " He grimaced, pain flitting across his face.

"They're gone," he said simply. He grew serious again, an intent look on his face.

"I must ask you a favor, Miss Schezar. I must get to the front in the south, and help Dilandau free Mythennielle. My brothers will try to stop him from getting klose to her, and I must tell them he is with the Gods' graces. You must kill me so that I might travel faster, then send him the information I gave you, so that my job will be easier when I arrive there. There has been enough bloodshed for many lifetimes to kome. Please, do this for me." Celena gaped at him, speechless, as he made a movement in the air with his hands. She took several steps back when he produced what had once been the head of the sorcerer Rusent in the air between them. She gulped several times, trying hard not to look at the gruesome sight.

"Mryth, I can't kill you. None of this has been your fault, and Dilandau won't listen to me anyway. Please, there must be some other way-" He grabbed her hand, shoving his own sword into her trembling fingers.

"You are much stronger than this, Ms. Celena! You know there is no other way! I need you to do it-"

A blast of red shot between them, and in the opening of the door stood Elise, an odd gadget in her hands. She smiled over at Folken, blowing the smoke from the nuzzle it came from. Then, to everyone's surprise, she laughed and spoke.

"It works Folken! I told you I'd be the first one to get to try out this little toy. It is my right, anyway. Since I designed it. You, Ambassador, will this do to get rid of ..that?" she gestured at the head floating serenely, if vulgarly, in midair. Celena gaped, although Anna laughed.

"Eries!! We wondered where you'd gotten to!! I like the green hair, did you cut it and then dye it?" Princess Eries gave an unladylike snort, her tail flicking, and body shifting the weight of the energist gun to her other hip.

"We'll talk of fashion later, cousin. Mryth! Will this do, or shall I get the larger model?" Mryth nodded, floating the head to her until it was at point-blank range. Eries paused for a moment, her usual calmness returning to her voice.

"I agree with Lady Celena, Mryth. You are a decent man. It is a shame we had to meet under such circumstances. You will excuse me, however, if I do not wait to chit chat. I would like to see the sorcerer scum destroyed. Give them Hell for us." With that, she pulled the trigger, and Mryth's image flickered momentarily. He turned to Celena quickly.

"Start now, I will be there momentarily." He smiled and opened his mouth to say something else, although he had disappeared before he had gotten much out.

"May you be...."

Van cursed as Escaflowne received another gash, and blood began to pour from his shoulder. They were losing, and badly. Where was Allen? He couldn't tell if they were anywhere near the main gates, but he needed reinforcements, and quickly. All around him, soldiers on both sides laid splayed and crimson. Melefs were in shambles about the place, although there were still a few using their stealth cloaks. His men fought bravely, although they were slowly weakening. How long had it been? An hour? Three? Five? Time seemed to stop, as he was slowly pushed towards one of the defense towers. An explosion to his left jarred him, and he decided that there was no time left. He took a deep breath, and closed his eyes momentarily, instincts helping him block the swings aimed at him.

I'm sorry, Hitomi. I had hoped to see our son grow to be a fine man, but it seems I will not get the chance. Forgive me for what I am about to do.

His eyes flew open, and he bellowed to his few remaining men.

"THIS IS FOR THOSE WHO DARED TO DREAM OF A LAND WHERE ALL ARE FREE!! MEN, ATTACK!!!"

The remaining forces cheered their own consent, and they pushed back with all their might. Hearts racing, they surged ahead, heading towards the gates to break down the enemy's last defense. Ignoring the wounds he was receiving, Van pushed ahead, barely even seeing the men who attempted to stop him. So enraptured was he in his quest to bash down the gates, he failed to look up.

Reaching the large doors, he threw all his remaining strength into tearing down the huge metal bars keeping it secure. Those who tried to stop him were tossed to the side like straws to the wind. When he felt the last of his energy fading, a great moan erupted from the wood, then a splintering crack. One more kick brought the mighty planks down, and the gate was open.

Van grinned, feeling another wave of adrenaline. There, ahead of him, were their reinforcements, destroying what was left of the enemy's ground troops and melefs. He surged forward, attempting to spot Allen in the chaos before him. He stopped though, an unfamiliar voice crackling on his radio.

"Van Fanel, King of Fanelia, retreat. Your part in this battle is done for now. We are here to take up your position. Return to the mothership and get your guymelef repaired immediately!" Van' gaze went behind him, then up. He laughed in sheer relief and exhaustion as he beheld the glorious sight before him. Hovering above the tops of the mountains, a large ship released unit after unit of top quality guymelefs. Apparently, the Ispano enjoyed arriving fashionably late, but in the best of style. Encouraging Escaflowne back into its dragon form, they leapt into the air, and flew towards the welcome sight.

It did not occur to him until he was safely aboard the ship that there had been no magic firing at him, trying to keep him at bay for some time now. As he laid in a drug-induced daze while hurried repairs were done to Escaflowne, he wondered what might have happened to cause such a change.

He cursed fluently and steadily, wondering what might have happened to cause such a change. Where there had been two of the blasted mages, now there were six. The original two remained by the entrance, but the other four had no qualms about coming after the group and going berserk instantly. Dilandau had barely shouted an order to throw away the bulky cloaks before they were upon them, and fighting to keep their lives. Ground had been lost as blows were exchanged, but the injuries they had sustained had not seemed fatal yet. There were only four fighting, but it took all fifteen of his men to keep from getting each other killed.

Dilandau thrust forward again, only to see his blade pass though air. If the damn kid didn't stop popping in and out of the air, they might've destroyed him long ago. However, Chesta had been the first to shout that their blows brought forth no blood, and what hits had been scored were quickly healed. It was like fighting ghosts, or demons.

Dilandau? Are you there?

He cursed louder, shouting out his reply instead of using his customary method of replying.

"Dammit Celena, I'm in the middle of a battle! I don't have time to-!" Another blow to his sword threw him back several feet, and he jumped up quickly, only to find himself floating in complete and utter darkness. He spun about wildly, sword still drawn, and blood dribbling from his mouth. He cursed even louder, shouting into the oppressing black.

"Celena!! I don't have time for games!! I must fight if there is to be an end!! Let me go back!!"

"There is no time." He spun around again to encounter Mryth, pale as ever, and walking towards him in long strides. He spoke again, his voice echoing in the shadows.

"There is no time, not now. You will understand in a few moments, but for now, there is no time. This farce must be stopped; the sorcerers must be destroyed." He stepped forward again, passing through the blade Dilandau swung through him. Dilandau backed away, though to his credit he did not run.

"I thought you were still alive. Release me from this spell, or I will-" He stopped as Mryth continued his walk, and passed through the sword once again. This time, however, he did not stop, and Dilandau felt a searing whiteness pulse through him, electricity pumping through his veins. He took in a shuddering breath, and closed his eyes to try to block out the feeling of magic on again running though him.

[Do not try to fight it]

He relaxed then, and everything became clear again. He was gazing into the smoky sky, and the cired of the battle sang out in the air. He became vaguely aware of someone calling his name, and he glanced over to where he had been only seconds before. Above him, Chesta, Viole and Maveric still fought Balen, the fifth ranked Magliss officer. Chesta shouted his name again, receiving a blow that sliced through his armor. Blood began to pour from the young man's chest, and he mouthed something Dilandau didn't catch before falling to the ground, eyes closing as he gave up the fight. Dilandau stood, and used his newfound abilities to throw Balen away from Chesta before he could deliver another fatal blow. Balen skidded back a few feet from the force of the mental wind Dilandau had sent, looking confused, then recognition gleamed in his eyes. He stood erect, flicking the blood from his sword and sheathing it. He turned to Dilandau and saluted with the odd spread fingers gesture Fiona had used earlier.

[The sign of the winged elite; he salutes to bid the wind beneath your wings be strong and steady It is a sign of respect; he knows what has transpired, and the others will understand in a matter of moments Do not fear anymore violence from us to your men You have joined with me, and I am their captain They will not disobey a direct order Now, Mythennielle is within the cavern You must make sure the sorcerer who guards her is completely destroyed, or the spell will not be broken Hurry now, I fear they already suspect, since we have stopped fighting]

Dilandau ran past the two men at the entrance who were saluting him, but not before he saw the younger one- Llanarth, Mryth's best friend- give him-them- a wink. He ran into the dimly lit cave, eyes adjusting as the light grew stronger. The energy crackled in the air, although it made him feel more and more alive with every step. Ahead, the glow suddenly became stronger, taking on shape, although still indiscriminate. When he got to the entrance of the chamber, he skidded to a halt, sword held loosely in his hand.

"C-Celena?" Before him floated a woman resembling Celena so much, Dilandau could not help but wonder if she was a long lost twin of the Schezar girl. She was dressed in a white gown, trimmed with the purple, green and gold of Mryth's own uniform. However, where Mryth was pale, Mythennielle was colorless, save for her clothes. She looked as though she was asleep; floating in the fetal position, her wings curved around her body protectively, and her hair spread out in a silver halo around her head. The wings showed shadows of what once might have been golden plumage, but they too were dull and ethereal looking. Mryth flashed a memory of Mythennielle looking much different from long ago; a smiled greeting as she turned to face him, they stood in their place, high above the city she loved so much. It was gone even as quickly as it came, and Dilandau was once again left with the ghostly woman before him. Mryth's shadowy voice scolded him for his pause, telling him to get a better grip on the sword so he could break the spell before a sorcerer came.

[Fool, she is not your Celena, she is-]

"Mryth?" A voice, soft and tremulous, broke his thoughts. The woman was looking at them now, her eyes now startlingly purple in the fragile body that sustained her. Above her diadem, her heritage's birthmark blinked into view before fading out again, her movements making her seem to shimmer as she hung suspended in air. Her eyes, however, seemed to come to life as she stepped to the ground lightly, a ghost of a smile on her lips.

"Mryth, is that you? They told me you were gone, they said you'd forgotten me-" She stiffened, the life fading from her eyes. Suspicion and great sadness took its place instead, although Dilandau said nothing. Her voice, while still soft and whispering, no longer held the warmth it had moments ago.

"You are not him." It was a statement, not a question, and Dilandau blinked before responding.

"No. I am not." She grew colder still, anger now settling into her body. The air around her began to crackle, and Mryth silently warned Dilandau against angering her further.

"If you are not my beloved, you are not welcome here. Leave now, human. I should kill you for your insolence, coming in here uninvited. You should not concern yourself with matters that do not concern you." Dilandau felt anger burning within him, although the part of him that was Mryth ached to run and comfort her. Dilandau's hands twitched, the mixed emotions trying to stir some sort of action from him. He fought down the urge to argue with her, taking a deep breath before responding.

"I am here to stop your suffering, and return you to your slumber." Her eyes were cold, although there was a brief flicker of sorrow in them. She looked at him coolly, voice still chilly.

"There is nothing you can do to ease my suffering. Only one of those chosen to bear the powers of the Gods can release me, and you do not have..." She trailed off, staring at him with sharp attention. Her gaze traveled up and down the length of his body, and while she said nothing, he could sense the beginning glimmers of hope in her.

"You are... You have his aura, but... You are similar in scent and sight, and you have magic running through your blood. If I were to look at you from afar, I would swear you are my love. Tell me, how is this so? I can sense my beloved within you, but surely he would not have stooped so far as to possess another...." Mryth's battle for dominance won over, and he raced to her side, burying his- or rather, Dilandau's- face in her hair. Dilandau's senses seemed blurry, he couldn't tell where he stopped and Mryth started. All he knew was that he wanted to protect her, and he would die before he would ever leave her alone again. She began to cry softly, whispering something in a speech Dilandau could not comprehend. Mryth had no trouble however, murmuring her name and a reply under his breath, holding to her tighter. The feelings he'd had to suppress all that time ago flooded through him, almost drowning out Dilandau.

As it was, it took all his might, both physically and mentally to fight off Mryth's subconscious, and push Mythennielle an arm's length from him. His breathing was hard and labored, his voice husky and not as sure sounding as he'd of liked.

"I am not Mryth, Lady Priestess. He has joined with me *temporarily* to allow me to free you. If I need those powers you spoke of, then you must tell me how I am to go about it. Tell me mystic, your time may be running out!"

"Wrong. Your time has long since past." Dilandau pushed her behind him, sword once again in his hand. How had he missed their entrance, not felt their presence behind him?

"So, you're the one who's started this war... Tell me, do you revel in the blood spent for your rule?" The sorcerers blocking the cave's entrance smiled, and the three opposing them could not help but shudder. The tallest of the bunch sneered at Dilandau, then held out a hand, beckoning. Behind him, Dilandau heard the frail girl whimper before she walked stiffly towards the sorcerer. He reached out a hand to stop her, only to recoil in pain as the magic in her aura bit sharply at his fingers. Mythennielle stopped before the sorcerers, shaking and pale in the dim light. The leader spoke again, this time daring to reach out and touch her. He stroked her hair as though petting a cat, and while she did not complain, her shaking grew worse. It was all Dilandau could do to keep from ripping out their throats.

"My dear girl, it seems you were disturbed by this intruder's entrance. The soldiers outside have been faltering, and all magic retaliation has ceased. Did we give you the order to stop your shields?" She flinched, though remained in her spot.

"No, Sorcerer Dethias." He sneered at her, contempt in his entire being.

"Then why did you stop? Do you need to be reminded who has control over you? Perhaps you would like one of your guardians destroyed?" Her eyes widened, and she shook her head emphatically.

"No, Sorcerer Dethias." He smiled then, running a hand over her face. She closed her eyes as revulsion shook through her.

"Then you will show us your compliance by destroying the intruder. We will deal with your disobedience when we have finished dealing with the fools outside." She gasped, taking a step back as though to fight the order, but the sorcerer shouted a spell of command, and her resistance disappeared instantly. Mryth's horror at her broken spirit did not deter Dilandau from bringing up his sword, although he couldn't help but wonder if he would be as confident if it was Celena he fought. He was given no other time to think as she rushed at him, purple energy pulsing in her hands.

Van sat by the bed, arm bound tightly to his side and sling secured in place. His expression was grim, as were all the faces in this part of the ship. When he had recovered from his drugged state enough to understand what he had been told, he'd immediately rushed to the side of the knight, despite the fact he himself was supposed to be in bed. Allen laid still as death, although the slight rise and fall of the sheets indicated that he was still breathing if not conscious. Every so often, he would shift uncomfortably, then fall still again.

Van sat, staring at his friend in complete disbelief. A serious wound that barely missed his heart had not been enough to stop him; he had fought bravely alongside his men for almost three hours before loss of blood made him fall to the ground. Van knew that the Ispano were no great doctors, but they had given him the best care they could with the most advanced tools of the day. Now, it was all up to Allen to decide if he would fight and survive, or if he would quietly fade from the world, leaving those he loved and those who loved him to mourn his passing.

The Fanelian king looked over the reports he'd been given, noting the numbers of the remaining fleet and soldiers before allowing himself a small smile. Unless something completely phenomenal happened, they would win this battle. Maybe not the war in the long run, but this victory would increase morale tenfold, and hopefully by sheer number they'd be able to subdue the Southern Continent Armies. If not, they'd die trying and no one would deny they'd tried their damnedest. He looked back down at Allen, the knight's features calm and collected even in sleep and despite all the pain he had to feel. He gave the older man a half-smile, weariness starting to take over.

"My friend, you've got to pull through this. Who will beat me in practice if you don't? I will be waiting for you to return to us. But for now, let us both pray that Dilandau and his men complete their job. We will all of us deserve a celebration when this is over, and you must be well for it. Rest now, and recover your strength." He stood stiffly, then walked out of the room quietly, wondering if any news of Dilandau or his troop had been heard at all since his last check.

Dilandau cursed as she threw yet another attack at him, this time charring the side of his armor to a gritty black dust. Mryth was desperately trying to think of some way to get to the sorcerers without having to hurt Mythennielle, although Dilandau spent his own efforts keeping himself in one piece. The place itself was beginning to show wear from their exchanged fire. The air around them had grown hot and stuffy, the sparks of electric magic pulsating more frequently as they sparred.

While she might look weak, the priestess definitely had some power behind her attacks. It only befitted one who was 'gifted by the gods' as she put it, although Dilandau was beginning to think magic took too much concentration to be used properly as a battle technique. He was getting tired, dodging her attacks and not retaliating as Mryth told him not to harm her. It was after she'd nearly taken off his left arm that he snapped, shouting at Mryth's insistent plea for her safety.

'I don't know how else to break the spell other than killing her, Mryth. There is no way I can get to the sorcerers without going through her, and there is no way to break the spell without getting to the sorcerers. What do you want me to do??' Mryth didn't have a response, so Dilandau went on, anger making his words harsher than they might have been otherwise.

'Unless you've got some idea of how to keep her still AND kill the sorcerers at the same time...' he broke off, an idea coming into his mind, even as Mryth refused.

[Dilandau, if you do that, you'll be throwing your life away-]

'Just shut up and tell me how long you think you can keep yourself together. Long enough to destroy them?' Mryth valiantly tried to think of something to dissuade him from his folly.

[Dilandau, what about Celena-} Dilandau shouted back angrily, throwing Mythennielle a bit farther than he had meant with his own attack. He was happy to see that the sorcerer she'd been thrown into winced as he picked himself up, although she seemed to suffer no ill side effects from the toss. She merely brushed herself off again, then began summoning more strength to retaliate.

'It is for her that I'm going to do this! I can hold her for a minute, maybe less, maybe more. I don't know how long I'll last against her magic, but you must be quick and destroy them. It's the only way and you know it. When I count to three, you get the Hell out of me, and start blasting them to bits. And I want you to enjoy it, because I want to know that the sorcerers died at the hands of someone who loathes them as much as I do. I'll hold your girlfriend as long as I can, but when I fall, you're on your own. Understand?'

[Dilandau, I kannot-]

'Do you understand??' Mryth's resolve tightened within him, and Dilandau felt the magic in his blood pounding with a new fury. Mythennielle had paused, sensing the change in him. He stood straighter, shifting so that she was in a direct path towards the sorcerers. Dilandau steeled himself mentally, tensing his body to get ready to spring.

' Three, two, one... now!' He leapt at her, bring his sword down in a feint attack. Out of reflex, she shrieked and put up her arms to shield her face. That was all he needed. He dropped the sword and grabbed her wrists, pulling them behind her back with one hand as he crushed her to him with the other. At that same point, the humming magic withdrew from him as mryth leapt forward, striking out at the nearest of the bunch. Two fell with the first hit, although Mryth ignored them as the others started to scatter. His time before he completely disappeared was short, and he knew that he had to inflict as much damage on them before he could no longer hold on. They were scrambling about to put up their own barriers and retaliate when six more people entered the foray.

With a cry of something in that uncomprehensible tongue, the remaining Magliss soldiers lashed out at their own 'guardians' taking down much of the cave with them. The roof began to shake and crack, debris falling amidst the fighters below. Outside, the whole mountain itself looked as though it were about to fall, and those still battling nearby stopped, watching in horror as large rocks began to fall off the hills and roll towards them with a deadly speed. Fighting was forgotten as they fled for their lives.

Celena collapsed to her knees, pain emanating her entire being and racking her mind with a blinding white fire. She completely forgot about those around her, her only thought on how to get rid of the agony that she felt ripping through her being. She gasped and gulped for air, her eyes unseeing as she huddled on the floor, arms wrapping themselves around her knees tightly. She attempted to break from the blistering white nothingness that tore at her inside, and she sobbed for something or something to mute the brilliant pain she felt. She quickly went into shock, body going lax as she fell into a sate of almost- unconsciousness.

She made no attempts to fight the hands that gripped her, that tried shaking her out of her coma-like trance. She blinked a few times when someone slapped her, but she quickly went back to her own personal living nightmare as she fought with whatever clawed at her soul, and pumped through her body.

Soul. Body. Blood. Mind. PAIN.

Something registered that maybe it wasn't her that was hurting, but someone else. Another part of her thought this stupid, for whose pain could she feel, if not her own? Another part cried for everyone to be quiet, to go away, to leave her alone, to let her rest, to leave her in peace. Another part-how many parts did she have, anyway- wondered how on Gaia she could forget how she could sense someone else's pain, and she suddenly came together.

"DILANDAU!!"

She shot up, only to find someone set her down again, gently but firmly. She turned to glare at them, snarling before she realized who it was.

"He's hurt and I've got to help him it hurts so much I can't leave him like that he'll go mad from it and there must be some way I can help him just get out of my way-" *SMACK*

"Celena, calm down. It's evident from your state something is wrong, but there's nothing you can do. He's thousands of miles away, and there isn't anything you can do to help him-" She wrestled against Folken's restraining hands, although to no avail. He looked into her eyes with deep concern, though she registered none of it. All she could concentrate on was getting away, and going to help Dilandau. She did not fail to see him sigh, and nod to one of the nurses hovering nearby. Eyes widening as the elderly woman approached, Celena fought with all her remaining strength, screaming to be released and left alone.

A sharp prick in her arm made her howl in rage more than pain, and she tried lashing out at her captors. She thrashed less and less as the drug began to take effect, and she tried to shrug off the effects of the sleeping drought. She felt so heavy though, and the blackness that was coming to swallow her up was so cool and comforting compared to the burning white she'd just experienced. She let out a soft whimper as Folken drew her close, kissing the top of her head lightly. He looked up and said something to one of the other shapes looming right outside of her vision's rapidly narrowing field. She heard none of it though, as she fell back into the numbing world induced by the drug.

PAIN

Gods, he didn't know how long he'd be able to hold onto her, he felt as though she was ripping his mind to shreds. He didn't even want to think about the state of his skin, he just held on and let her waves of angry lashes and magical stabs run him through, again and again and again. He tried distancing himself from the whole thing, a trick he'd learned while undergoing the experiments of the sorcerers long ago, but he just couldn't seem to let go. He couldn't let go though, or she'd kill him and then go after her old boyfriend.

Right, where was the elf? There seemed to be an awful lot of explosions going on, but he couldn't hear it anymore, since his hearing seemed to have been overloaded and finally gone. This whole thing sucked, he couldn't remember why the Hell he'd volunteered for this assignment anyway, all he wanted to do was save the world so he could have one break, just once in his life, and try to earn the trust of those who really wanted him dead- why was she fighting him anyway? Didn't she know this was all for her- well, for her and the rest of the world, but it would go so much quicker if she'd just give up and let them kill her-

Oh, there he is. And, by the looks of it he's killed a sorcerer or two- and he brought his friends, that's good, except that they seem to be tearing the whole place down, not really caring that they'd kill themselves along with the sorcerers-

That's right, they're already dead. Nevermind.

Oh look, she's stopped struggling so much, and things weren't hurting so much now. Well, except when he tried to move, but he wouldn't try to do that quite yet. First things first, he had to figure out how much longer he could stand up, and if he could also hold onto the crazy girl while he tried it. Mayeb if he just-

"Why are you doing this?"

Her voice, while soft, snapped him out of his trance, senses coming back. Damn. He hurt like Hell. His voice sounded like he'd been drinking sand for the past five years of his life, but he managed to croak out a response.

"What?" Good, his vocal chords still worked somewhat, and they didn't hurt as much. He hadn't screamed himself hoarse after all- no, wait, he hadn't screamed at all. Nevermind. She twisted to look into his eyes, making him almost cry out as his muscles protested the movement.

"Why? Why are you here? Do you not know that it is not too late to save yourself? When I was released from the spell, you could have fled and had a better chance. Now, there is little hope, although you could still run. You're going to die in this cave, entombed with the rest of us, if you do not flee now. Why stay?" He tried to smirk, although he had a feeling it came out as a grimace. Ignoring her for a moment, he looked around, and then stopped short. The men and woman fighting before them were frozen as though time itself had stopped, and only they were allowed to remain aware of the passing seconds. He looked back at the girl before him, and once again thought of Celena/ He looked away, staring at the frozen scene of death .Instead of commenting on the whole farcical scene, he choked out a laugh.

"There is nothing for me to return to. Besides, I have an oath I have to uphold. I will do what I must to keep Gaia at peace. This is my vow, my oath, my pact. I will not be deterred by anyone, or anything." She gave him a suspiciously Celena-looking raised eyebrow, although her mood was far from light.

"You knew that I would not have hurt them once the spell was removed, I would never do anything to hurt them on purpose. You stayed for some other reason an it pains me to think that one so like my love would keep something from me." He looked down at her, humor coloring his eyes as he still held onto her tightly.

" You see through me. I am here then... to end your suffering... I cannot stand to see you in pain." Her eyes lit up, and she drew herself up, the frozen time and battle around them forgotten.

"You're running away from something- or someone, perhaps? You don't have to tell me, I can sense it in your soul. You know, she was suffering when you were in pain as well." He went cold at that, realizing he'd completely forgot to attempt to block any pain from Celena, and that she'd probably felt everything he had. Mythennielle drew his attention back to where he was though, a soft touch on his cheek. His muscles began to calm, although an ache still remained deep within his bones.

"Tell me, what is it you wish for? If it is within my power, I will grant it. There is still enough strength in me for me to repay the one who will give up his life to see to my happiness. However, know that when I grant it, time will restart, and the cave will fall. The sorcerers will be completely destroyed, but there will be no escape. If your wish to be freed of your oath so that you might escape with your life, say it and it will be done." He stared at her as she stood there, looking ethereal and almost Godlike herself in her fine robes of a cult long since forgotten. The power of Atlantis hummed in the air between them, almost tangible, and he wondered not for the first time if the Gods had been so wrong in destroying the humans who had dared to hold such power. Mythennielle broke the quiet though, voice hinting at signs of strain.

"I cannot hold this forever, my body is weak and my spirit tired from walking so long after my rest was disturbed. Either tell me what you wish, or the Gods will answer my prayer and grant your most intimate desire, without your consent. Hurry, I grow weary!!" He opened his mouth to speak, but then closed it, shaking his head. She sighed in exasperation, but he opened his mouth to speak again.

There was a resounding crack through the air like lightning in the still of a summer storm, and time flooded back into the room, swirling back to release its imprisoned pawns. The fighting stopped, and an eery silence filled the chamber. The sorcerers were gone, and standing in the room were the shades of warriors from long ago. Dilandau was left to stare as Mythennielle walked calmly to Mryth's almost non-existent form, and watch her whisper something to him that made the elf smile. She clutched his hand, and he dropped his sword to pull her into a tight embrace. She gave one last glance back at Dilandau, and faded with Mryth into the air. The six other Magliss stood at attention, smartly saluting before following in suit Her parting words were barely audible above the groaning of the stones above him.

[Thank you, we can finally rest at last. My people await for our return. The Magliss are in your debt, knight of the dragon blood.] There was a shuddering splintering of rock, and Dilandau dove for the exit. He ran as fast as he could, but a falling boulder hit him from behind, knocking him to the ground. He didn't even bother getting up, knowing he was too late. His last thoughts before embracing the darkness were of Celena.

When I came to, I was in the medical wing, lying on a cot and staring at the dull bone-colored ceiling. I felt odd, although I'd awoken from enough drug-induced sleeps to know that it was an effect that followed one into consciousness. But there was something else too- something I couldn't put my finger on, and it drove me crazy, trying to think of what it was. I decided that it would come to me, all things that are important enough usually do, and I knew trying to think harder would accomplish nothing. So, I went over an inventory of things I knew, and things that were still fuzzy from sleep.

One, I ached all over. I hadn't felt this bad since.. I couldn't remember. Sometime that had dealt with melef practices and things going wrong. If I moved, muscles screamed at me to stop being stupid. I decided I'd comply, and laid there like a rag, not moving, not doing anything.

Two, something had made me ache like I'd flown into a mountain- That was it! I hadn't felt that bad since I'd had a malfunctioning melef that ended up crashing into a mountainside.. Bugger if I could remember what the more current injury was from, but obviously it'd either happened in front of people, or they'd found me lying about somewhere. I didn't think I'd be on the cot if someone hadn't found me. Another thing to let stew for a bit.

Three, I was near to remembering something that I had dreamed while I was floating in that heavy darkness of sleep. It wouldn't be good to try to force it to come, but it was something important, and I knew that it had made me wake up. Whatever it was, it had certainly jolted my senses, though why I couldn't remember.

Four, I was alone. I could think and stew in blissful silence for a bit, and-

Anna walked in, and my mood went somewhat darker in a matter of seconds. I tried pretending I was still asleep, but unfortunately she'd seen me glance her way, and had taken that as an invitation to come sit by me. She looked pale and upset, but she tried putting on a smile for me. And, thankfully, when she spoke, her voice was soft.

"I'm glad you're awake, Celena. I was hoping to talk to you before Lord Folken came to see you. You gave us all quite a scare, going off like that. You were shouting something awful, and I was afraid you'd gone mad-"

"What happened?" My voice was hoarse, no doubt from my screaming, but she understood it, so didn't have to repeat myself, which was good. She shook her head, a gesture that made her curls toss back and forth prettily over her shoulders. She then looked me straight in the eye, her bright green eyes boring into my own.

"Don't you remember anything, Celena? What is the last thing you remember?" I frowned, chewing on my lip as I thought.

"The castle was attacked, but it ended up being Mryth, and he didn't want to attack us. In fact, he freed all of you after he told us about how he came to be how he is, and how we could destroy the sorcerers. Then Eries appeared out of nowhere dressed as a catwoman, and destroyed what was left of Rusent. Mryth went to Dilandau because-" I stopped abruptly, the rest flooding back to me. Anna's mouth opened as she gripped my hand, and she shouted for a nurse to come with smelling salts. She then turned back to me, fear in her voice.

"Celena?? Celena, what is it? Don't faint on me, stay with me! What is the matter?" I stared at her, though I didn't respond. The horror that was creeping up into was awakening the memories of what I had dreamed, and I began to dread them even as they emerged into my consciousness.

Dilandau, being killed by magic, then crushed by rock.

Dilandau, his body broken in a hundred places, and his spirit weakening as magic thundered through him.

Dilandau, coming to me as I lay sleeping, his lips brushing softly against mine as he whispered to me.

Celena... Goodbye...

I turned to Anna, who by now had gone as pale as I felt. I held out my hand, and I gripped her own as she gave it to me, confusion written across her face.

'Gods no...Please, don't leave me alone!!.'

I met with silence, an echoing vastness that I'd never felt before. I strained my inner ear, trying to catch a reply, and reply.

Alone!! ... Please... Alone!!

I tried again, using all the strength I could muster, squeezing my eyes shut in hopes to collect my thoughts with more ease. Surely, this was a jest...?

Dilandau? Dilandau!! Please, you can't be gone!! Don't leave me alone!!

The echoing reply, mocking me as I waited for his sarcastic reply.

Dilandau.... Gone.... Alone

I opened my eyes, and found that I'd not only gotten the attention of Anna, but a nurse, Folken, Princess Eries, and several of the girls. My attention was not on any except Anna though. She was paler than I'd ever seen her before, as though she knew what I was going to say before I spoke. She took my other hand in hers and squeezed.

"Anna, you recall how you told me of your light in the darkness? And how you thought everyone had one, even if you couldn't see it?" I was surprised at how well I was able to keep my voice level, and apparently this was not something Anna had expected me to say. She nodded, giving me a small, of strained, smile.

"I do, Celena. Why?" I looked at her directly in the eyes as I spoke.

"Mine has just gone out."

With that, I threw myself into her arms, and sobbed with all my heart.