The Next Generation 8
Fanelia was at its liveliest when the merchants came to town. In the great plaza was where they congregated, each setting up his stall or tent in such a way that would attract business away from the competition. Great crowds of people gathered to watch the massive carts roll up and the children especially would cheer when someone handed out free samples.
The children particularly enjoyed Ruhm's tall tales. They shivered with fright when he recalled an encounter with a witch. They gasped in awe as he told them about the time he'd escaped from bounty hunters. And they giggled and clapped with glee when he produced from under his robes a pygmy dragon.
"Now this little guy is only three years old." Ruhm explained learnedly. "Dragons don't fully mature until they are fifteen. Until then they can't breath fire, and are fairly trusting." The little dragon, named Midget, spread its tiny wings and gave a high-pitched rasp. To much applause and laughter, he flew onto a child's head. The child looked as though his dream had come true.
After that, Ruhm and his fellows made a killing on tiny dragon carvings, and all sorts of paraphernalia. When the crowd dispersed, he watched the children go with a wistful look. "Ah, to be young again." He said to himself.
"Were you ever young Ruhm?"
The wolf man turned to the female voice and grinned broadly. "Yukari! I was wondering when you'd be checking out the bargains." He said to Mark, "She goes among merchants like a wolf among sheep."
Mark nodded mournfully. "And I have to help carry packages. Ah well. Life goes on."
Ruhm nodded wisely. "Too true, too true. But you may as well have fun too. Don't let Yukari enjoy herself too much."
"I've seen what happens when she does."
The men laughed as Yukari eyed stalls predatorily. "Come on! All the good buys will be gone before we get moving!" Without waiting for a reply, she grabbed Mark's arm and dragged him off.
Ruhm shook his head. "Kids these days."
***
For a while, Yukari was to busy analyzing items and bargains to pay much attention to Mark. She hadn't bought anything yet, but this was just the tip of the iceberg! They had the whole day ahead of them, and she wasn't gonna waste it.
"Hey Mark, check this out." Yukari picked up an amulet. "What do you think of it? Is it worth his price?" Turning she glanced at her companion.
Mark was shuffling his feet in the ground, looking distracted. When Yukari spoke his name, he looked up and blushed. "What? Oh, it's nice." Then he went back to shuffling.
Yukari frowned. "What's up? You look upset. Tell me what's wrong."
Mark hesitated. "Well.it's nothing."
"It is not!"
"It is."
"Is it about this morning?"
Mark's cheeks flamed wildly. "How did you know???" Yukari shrugged.
"You've been quiet since breakfast. That was the only thing that made sense. Look, if it makes you feel any better, it's alright. It doesn't matter, and it could have happened to anyone. You were just being noble." Yukari smiled. "Actually, I kind of like the 'hero' types."
Mark looked at her, and Yukari made a discovery that she'd never noticed before. 'His eyes are blue. Blue like cobalt.' He smiled.
"Thanks" He said. "I've been feeling really bad about it, and-"
"Hey lovebirds!" Yelled the forgotten merchant. "Are you gonna buy that, or do you need a room?"
Yukari whirled on the man, but Mark stepped in front of her. "Allow me pretty lady!" He said, making Yukari blush. Mark then proceeded to haggle with the man.
It was soon apparent that Mark was exceptionally skilled with his voice. With a subtle change in tone, he managed to convey whole volumes of spite and disgust."
"Fifty gold?" Hiss voice raised. "FIFTY GOLD? For something I could dig up in my backyard? You've got to be kidding me! I wouldn't pay five gold for this piece of rubbish!"
The merchant was taken aback. "Rubbish? I'll have you know that that 'rubbish you hold is a finely piece of crafted art! It would fetch five hundred gold in any auction!"
"Yeah right! An auction for blind philosophers!" Mark shook his head, tossing his wavy black hair. "My price stands at five gold. Take it or leave it."
"You are mad! Fifty gold or nothing!"
"I see. Then we shall be on our way. Come Yukari, this man obviously does not want our business." He took her arm and strolled away. When they were ten paces from the stall, the merchant's voice called them back.
"Do not be so hasty my friend." Said the man, a hint of panic in his voice. "Perhaps we can come to an agreement."
Mark turned around. "Make an offer."
Mark filleted the man alive. The experienced merchant stood no chance against the young man with the eloquent voice. Yukari watched in astonishment as a deal was made. Mark walked away with the gold pentagram amulet, a crystal bottle of Cesarian perfume, a jeweled belt, and a pair of silver earrings all for just thirty-two gold. "There you go. That ought to add some glitter to your wardrobe." Mark said, sounding pleased.
Yukari just stared at him. "How the hell did you do that?"
Mark shrugged. "I'm Cesarian, I know how to haggle. The trick is to make them think that you'll walk away if you don't get what you want." He smiled. "So, what are you going to do with your new wardrobe?"
Yukari gaped. "Are you serious?"
"Of course. What am I going to do with jewelry? And I can tell you really like it."
Yukari smiled and hugged him tight about the waist. "You're so sweet!"
"Um.Yukari? I can't breath."
Startled, Yukari looked into his blue face and immediately let go. With a deep breath, Mark smiled and rubbed his ribs. "You're strong, you know that?"
The rest of the morning passed well. Yukari paused a few moments to put on her new jewelry and soon she was flashing with the sun. Her new earrings went especially well with the rest of the metal hanging from her ear. Gazing into a mirror she had recently acquired, she smiled. "Now I really look like slut."
Mark snorted. "The most elegant slut in the world if you please!"
Yukari playfully punched him in the ribs and they strolled on.
All too soon, it was lunchtime. Stopping to eat, they picked a pleasant outdoors restaurant. Sitting down in some shade, they relaxed. While they waited for the food to arrive, Mark looked over at Yukari. "You look really pretty, you know?"
Yukari smiled. "That's because you have excellent taste." She fingered her ear and sighed. "I hope this afternoon will be as productive as this morning was."
"Don't worry. We haven't seen half of this place yet."
They talked over their purchases until lunch came. Mark had ordered some sort of pasta that Yukari had never seen before, and she'd got a wild boar sandwich. Chewing away, they still managed to talk, and the conversation turned to their lives.
"Well," Mark swallowed, "I grew up with my mother and my three sisters. The guys in the Mystics used to say all those women made me girly." He chuckled. "Maybe they were right. They were the ones to teach me how to haggle."
"I'll have you know that haggling is the noblest of sports!" Yukari's voice was filled with pride. "It's less painful than dueling, and more exciting than mind puzzles. The results aren't always so clear cut as someone being run through, or a right or wrong answer. Sometimes no one wins."
"Well either way, my grandfather taught me to fight, and I joined the Mystics two years later." Mark shook his head. "And here I am. Not where I'd expected, I'll tell you that. But not unwelcome either." He watched Yukari as he said that, and she suddenly became absorbed in her sandwich.
Lunch ended soon after, and they were on their way again. However, an unwelcome presence was destined to butt in.
"You there!"
Yukari turned and groaned. "Not him again!" Mark scowled. "Doesn't he ever give up?"
Lord Whatever, double chins and all, was waddling arrogantly down the street. Merchants and buyers alike cleared the way, for he had two large men with him. He stopped right in front of Yukari, eyes burning with what little fire they had. "You, peasant" He began grandly, "Are under arrest for assault on a noble person!"
Yukari shook her head in exasperation. "Are you out of your mind? You challenged me to a duel, and I won! If anyone was assaulting, it was you!"
One of the guards spoke. "Nevertheless, his lordship here has presented a complaint, and we must take you in for questioning. Please come peacefully."
"But I didn't do anything!"
"Listen here!" Mark stepped forward, an angry light in his eyes. "You can't do this! Lord Whatever here ordered her to, and I quote, 'kiss his feet'. When she refused to do so, he challenged her to a duel, quote, 'within the hour'. So Yukari knocked him out! Now tell me, does that sound like the terms of the duel were met?" Mark finished with a flourish.
One of the guards nodded, but the talky one didn't look convinced. Lord Whatever was fuming.
"It is a lie!" He cried. "I merely stopped for directions and she viciously attacked me!" He glared at Mark. "And my name is Thistlebottom! Gellga Thistlebottom!"
Yukari cracked up. She bent over, hands clutching her sides, gasping for breath as tears rolled down her face and hysterical laughter escaped from her lips. The silent guard joined in and soon everyone within earshot was laughing loudly. Except for Lord Thistlebottom.
"I'll teach you manners!" He yelled, then he slapped Yukari across the face.
The laughter died instantly, as Mark surged forward and lifted Thistlebottom two feet off the ground by the collar. With a flick of his free hand, he produced a knife and pressed it against his throat. Pupils dilating, Mark hissed like a dragon. "Now you arrogant son of a bitch" He snarled, "You are going to apologize to her, or you are going to spend the rest of your life sucking your meals through straws!"
The Lord struggled quite uselessly. "What are you doing?" He yelled at the guards. "Stop him!"
But the guards were no longer on his side. The talky one had turned around and marched away. The other one glared at Thistlebottom. "We don't take kindly to men who strike women, your 'Lordship'." Then he too left the scene.
Alone, friendless, and surrounded by hostile people, Thistlebottom did the only thing he could have done. He apologized and hurried away, trying to reassemble what was left of his damaged dignity.
Mark glared furiously at his back. "Slimy bastard." He muttered. He felt a hand on his arm.
Yukari smiled shyly at him. "Thank you."
Mark opened his mouth to talk but no words came out. It was like this morning. He was captivated by what he saw.
Yukari pecked him on the cheek and, blushing, turned toward another merchant's stand. Mark placed a hand on his cheek in wonder. Before he had time to mull on this, however, something caught his eye. A silver double star. When he turned his full attention to that symbol, he gasped. He tapped Yukari's shoulder, trying to get her attention.
"Yukari" He said, "That man over there. He's a Mystic."
Her attention was immediately caught. "Are you sure?"
"Sure I'm sure. I've seen him around before. He's one of Kriggen's henchmen. But what's he doing here?"
"Let's follow him."
Nodding, Mark set out after Yukari. The two followed the man, trying to blend into the crowd. It wasn't easy, as people kept jostling them, making them lose track of the man. Eventually, however, he went into an alley. Yukari stepped up against one side and gestured for Mark to do the same. Craning their necks, they sought to hear the man. But the footsteps had stopped.
Yukari smiled. She had inherited both her parents' love of risks too much not to take the chance. Creeping forward, she was about to step into the alley when a hand stopped her. Mark shook his head frantically. She merely smiled. He really was a sweetie. 'It's okay.' She mouthed. 'I'll be alright.'
Mark seemed to think about this. Then his grip slackened. 'Be careful.' He mouthed back. With a wink, Yukari stepped into the alley.
A few meters in, she knew that she'd have to be quiet. The slightest sound would echo off the walls. So, when she caught sight of the man, she ducked behind a garbage bin and waited.
Soon, another man walked in the opposite end of the alley. He greeted the first man like a subordinate. "What news?" He grated.
"I have discovered where the sword is, my lord Kriggen." Yukari blinked. Kriggen? The sword? She listened more carefully.
"Excellent! Return to the camp. Prepare the troops. In two days we will seize the weapon and eliminate the concerns that fool has."
"Sir, should we not inform Kasar about this plan?"
Kriggen waved a hand in dismissal. "No, let him sweat. When we do tell him, we'll have the objective and force him to pay us extra for it. Now get moving. I expect you to be back before I am."
"Yes sir." The man bowed and hurried out the way he came, nearly tripping over Yukari in the process. Kriggen waited in the alley for a few more minutes. After a while, he began to talk to himself.
"Why does Veers want them so badly? Ah well. It's no skin off my teeth. This fits perfectly. They'll regret humiliating my boys so badly that day!" Chuckling, Kriggen started to turn. Then he whirled around and stared straight at Yukari's garbage bin. He could have sworn he heard something.
Nothing moved. Nothing breathed. And slowly, Kriggen turned around and left the alley. Only when she was sure he was gone, did Yukari relax and come out from her hiding place.
Mark was waiting for you at the opening of the alley, nearly beside himself with worry. "You're alright!" He nearly hugged her in relief. "I thought you were dead!"
Yukari smiled. "Calm down Mark. I'm fine." The smile faded. "But something's up."
"What do you mean?"
Yukari quickly filled in Mark. When she was done, he was scratching his chin and frowning in thought.
"He makes it seem like revenge is such a big deal to him. For such a stupid reason, too! Is anyone really that crazy?"
Yukari nodded. "My mother ran across someone who was crazy enough to do it. But Kriggen made it sound like he was getting paid to for this revenge! And Kasar is involved."
"Which means that General Veers is involved." Mark added grimly.
"Who the hell is this guy?" Yukari asked. "And why would he want my parents?"
Mark shrugged. "I don't know much. Apparently he's a powerful leader in Basram. Rumor has it that he's really the one in charge, not king Dayton. One thing I do know is that he defines the word nationalist."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean that he believes Basram is the most important country on Gaea."
Yukari mulled this over. 'Okay' She thought, 'Veers is hiring Kriggen to find some sort of sword. But why? And what is this sword?' Unbidden, Hitomi's prophecy came to mind.
"Peace once long ago attained Will very soon be threatened again. A new ambition dark will rise And flashing death will fill the skies. But hope remains, still burning bright. Fate can change for those with sight. And when does rise the Dragon's sword All will relive the days he roared."
Yukari paced back and forth. "This has to do with that prophecy." Mark was puzzled.
"The one your mother gave?"
"How many others do you know of? Of course the one my mother gave!"
Mark held up his hands to ward off an assault. "Then I guess we should find out who this 'dragon' is."
Yukari stopped. Something hit her. Something from the past. "Oh crap."
"What?" Mark asked, puzzled.
"Oh crap!"
"What?
"Oh CRAP!"
"WHAT!"
Yukari grabbed Mark's arm and started running toward the castle. "I think I know who the dragon is. And if I'm right, Kriggen getting his sword would be very bad!"
***
"I hope you realise that this is crazy." Sabrina hissed.
"I've never claimed to have any great sanity." Setto replied, shrugging. "In fact, given my parents, I probably don't."
The two were implementing Setto's second favourite method of sneaking out: disguises. He was eager to try his favourite way, but an explosion in the castle would be too hard to explain to Van. So instead, he was dressed as a well-to-do nobleman, and Sabrina was to be his daughter. He'd tried to get her to be his servant, but she flat out refused. When he'd suggested his concubine, she smacked him in the head. So here they were, a lovely father and daughter couple out for a day at the bazaar.
Unfortunately, the plan had a few glaring omissions. Such as the fact that they were the same age. To make himself appear taller, Setto had placed stilts in his pant legs, and attached a false beard. And to prevent the guards from recognising Sabrina, he'd dyed her black hair a glossy brown, and had a maid set it up in an intricate braid. Setto was a master of disguise, and soon 'Lord Tsarack' and his 'daughter' were in visual range of the castle gates.
The two men on duty saluted. "Good morning my lord. Out for a bit of shopping?"
"Indeed." Said Setto in his best nobleman voice. "Have the merchants set up yet?"
"They've been set up since before dawn."
"Good. Then we shall not keep them waiting. Come Lusankya." Beckoning to Sabrina, he strolled leisurely out into the sun kissed streets.
As soon as they were out of sight of the door guards, they ducked into an alley and quickly switched back to their original clothes. "There you go." Setto said as he removed his disguise, revealing the many-pocketed shirt he'd got from the wardrobe. "That was easy enough."
Sabrina glared at him. "Lusankya?"
Setto shrugged. "That's the price you pay for freedom. Now, can you honestly tell me that wasn't fun?"
Sabrina glared at him. "I've known you for two hours and I already consider you crazy, frivolous, and remarkably arrogant, and that last comment didn't help in the slightest."
Setto smiled, showing a great many teeth. "Thank you! Now what's say we go have some fun?" He offered her his arm.
Sabrina ground her teeth in frustration. "Alright." Reluctantly, she took the offered limb and allowed Setto to lead her from the alley into the broad street.
***
Three hours later, Setto was still going strong. He'd made it his goal for the day to get Sabrina to laugh. Despite repeated attempts and continuous ploys, her face remained, at best, carefully expressionless.
He'd taken her to every attraction he could find. They'd seen snake charmers call forth their serpentine pets and make them dance to the music of their wooden pipes, they'd watched as a juggler had tossed flaming torches, and they'd been to all manner of shops, tents, tracks, and shows, all without a crack in Sabrina's marble façade.
They had just gone through a maze set up for the occasion, when a shout for help pulled their attention.
The street quickly emptied. Soon, a man came by, running full tilt, and an expression that said he had good reason to run.
Setto watched him curiously. "Why do you suppose he's running?"
"That's why." Sabrina's voice was strangely tight.
With a clatter of armour and cries of 'Halt', two armoured men came barrelling after the running man. Their armour was the most recognisable thing about them. Their breastplates and leg armour were finely carved to resemble scales, and their helmets were designed to look like the gaping maw of a snake. Steel faceplates hid the faces of the men, but they could be heard clearly enough.
"Stop! I order you to halt in the name of the Silver Serpents!" The nearer one stopped and, in a flash, unslung a crossbow and had it pointed at the fleeing man.
"No, don't!" Setto yelled. But it was too late. The bolt was away, and within seconds, it struck its target with enough force to spin the man around before he hit the ground in a pool of his own blood.
The guard with the crossbow stood and lifted his mask, revealing a cruel smile. Turning to his fellow, he laughed. "Well he won't be stealing from us again!"
"Unless it's a new heart!" His buddy added.
The two guards laughed. Setto's teeth ground and he unconsciously moved forward. He was right in one's face before they noticed him. Scowling, the man said, "Get lost, or you're next!"
"What the hell do you think you're doing?!" Setto yelled, temper flaring. "Why'd you kill him?!"
The guard waved a hand airily. "He stole a few coins. He got what he deserved."
"You can't just go around killing people with no real excuse!"
Frowning, the soldier stepped forward aggressively. "Don't start lecturing us, pal, or you just might find yourself in a landfill!" His gaze turned to Sabrina and he licked his lips hungrily. "Who's the girl? She'd look fine in my bed, with no clothes- Ugh!" His last words were choked off as Setto's dagger entered his ribs.
Startled, the other man drew his sword and attacked, but Setto had his ninjato out and parried easily.
Setto went on an all out offensive. Sword flashing and twirling, the enemy backed up, panic starting to show. Desperately, he slashed viciously at Setto's head, but missed when he ducked. Next thing he knew, he was backed against a wall. He didn't even have time to cry for mercy before Setto's sword pinned him up against the wall.
Twisting his blade, Setto stared into the eyes of the dying man. "In the next world" He hissed "Try and treat people a little nicer. They might not decide to kill you." With that, he pulled out his blade and let the corpse fall to the ground.
He heard footsteps, and a hand yanked him around. He saw Sabrina's furious face. "What the hell do you think you were doing?" She yelled. "Trying to get yourself killed?"
Setto shrugged. "I was trying to teach them a lesson in manners." He saw she didn't believe him. "Oh come on! He basically called you a whore! And you saw what he did to that poor man! Besides, the second one attacked me. I had no choice to defend myself."
"You don't get it! They were Silver Serpents, the elite army of Basram! Father's personal guard!"
"So?"
"So, when he finds out what you did, he'll have you killed!"
Setto leaned on his sword. "He doesn't have to know then, does he?" Sabrina made a frustrated sound and her eye twitched.
Suddenly Setto's sword slipped, and, with a surprised 'Damn it!' he was sent sprawling into the dust of the road. As he struggled back up, he slipped on a rock and went down again.
Sabrina watched this, no emotion on her face. Then, the tiniest glint appeared in her eye. The corner of her mouth tilted upward slightly. Slowly, painstakingly, the rest of her mouth followed. A small sound escaped from her lips. The sound turned into a chuckle, which evolved into a giggle. Finally, when Setto had tripped for the third time in a row, Sabrina Veers, the one who'd been called the humourless ice maiden, burst out into loud, hysterical laughter. Clutching her sides, she bent over, unable to get a breath, as she laughed, and laughed, and laughed.
When Setto was finally to his feet, he glared at her. "What's so funny?"
This just caused even more laughter. Setto just stared at his companion, and thought about it. There he was, elegantly defeating to trained fighters and not a moment later, he tripped over his own feet. That was pretty funny!
Soon, both teenagers were on the ground laughing.
Eventually, however, it died down into giggles. Desperately trying to compose themselves, they stood up and brushed themselves off.
"I haven't laughed like that since I was five years old." Sabrina said, grinning.
"Maybe you should try it more often!"
"Yeah, I should." Suddenly her tone turned serious. "You know.I actually had fun today."
"Really? I couldn't tell."
"Don't be a smart ass."
Setto raised his hands in defence. "No. I really couldn't tell. You didn't show any emotion whatsoever! You could have out stared a politician!"
Sabrina smiled again. "Call it a talent of mine. Now, shall we leave the scene of the crime before the city guard finds these gentlemen?"
Setto glanced at the bodies. "Oh yeah. Let's go."
The two raced down an alley. Along the way, Sabrina said, "You know, all this sneaking about is really."
"Exhilarating?"
"Yeah. We should do this more often."
Setto grinned. "I believe I discern a protégé."
A/N: So Yukari has found out something. Read the next chapter to find out! Will Mark ever just kiss her? Has Setto found himself a new friend? Find out the answers to these questions and more.on Escaflowne!
Dilandau-with-a-cowboy-hat: And don't forget to review!
Fanelia was at its liveliest when the merchants came to town. In the great plaza was where they congregated, each setting up his stall or tent in such a way that would attract business away from the competition. Great crowds of people gathered to watch the massive carts roll up and the children especially would cheer when someone handed out free samples.
The children particularly enjoyed Ruhm's tall tales. They shivered with fright when he recalled an encounter with a witch. They gasped in awe as he told them about the time he'd escaped from bounty hunters. And they giggled and clapped with glee when he produced from under his robes a pygmy dragon.
"Now this little guy is only three years old." Ruhm explained learnedly. "Dragons don't fully mature until they are fifteen. Until then they can't breath fire, and are fairly trusting." The little dragon, named Midget, spread its tiny wings and gave a high-pitched rasp. To much applause and laughter, he flew onto a child's head. The child looked as though his dream had come true.
After that, Ruhm and his fellows made a killing on tiny dragon carvings, and all sorts of paraphernalia. When the crowd dispersed, he watched the children go with a wistful look. "Ah, to be young again." He said to himself.
"Were you ever young Ruhm?"
The wolf man turned to the female voice and grinned broadly. "Yukari! I was wondering when you'd be checking out the bargains." He said to Mark, "She goes among merchants like a wolf among sheep."
Mark nodded mournfully. "And I have to help carry packages. Ah well. Life goes on."
Ruhm nodded wisely. "Too true, too true. But you may as well have fun too. Don't let Yukari enjoy herself too much."
"I've seen what happens when she does."
The men laughed as Yukari eyed stalls predatorily. "Come on! All the good buys will be gone before we get moving!" Without waiting for a reply, she grabbed Mark's arm and dragged him off.
Ruhm shook his head. "Kids these days."
***
For a while, Yukari was to busy analyzing items and bargains to pay much attention to Mark. She hadn't bought anything yet, but this was just the tip of the iceberg! They had the whole day ahead of them, and she wasn't gonna waste it.
"Hey Mark, check this out." Yukari picked up an amulet. "What do you think of it? Is it worth his price?" Turning she glanced at her companion.
Mark was shuffling his feet in the ground, looking distracted. When Yukari spoke his name, he looked up and blushed. "What? Oh, it's nice." Then he went back to shuffling.
Yukari frowned. "What's up? You look upset. Tell me what's wrong."
Mark hesitated. "Well.it's nothing."
"It is not!"
"It is."
"Is it about this morning?"
Mark's cheeks flamed wildly. "How did you know???" Yukari shrugged.
"You've been quiet since breakfast. That was the only thing that made sense. Look, if it makes you feel any better, it's alright. It doesn't matter, and it could have happened to anyone. You were just being noble." Yukari smiled. "Actually, I kind of like the 'hero' types."
Mark looked at her, and Yukari made a discovery that she'd never noticed before. 'His eyes are blue. Blue like cobalt.' He smiled.
"Thanks" He said. "I've been feeling really bad about it, and-"
"Hey lovebirds!" Yelled the forgotten merchant. "Are you gonna buy that, or do you need a room?"
Yukari whirled on the man, but Mark stepped in front of her. "Allow me pretty lady!" He said, making Yukari blush. Mark then proceeded to haggle with the man.
It was soon apparent that Mark was exceptionally skilled with his voice. With a subtle change in tone, he managed to convey whole volumes of spite and disgust."
"Fifty gold?" Hiss voice raised. "FIFTY GOLD? For something I could dig up in my backyard? You've got to be kidding me! I wouldn't pay five gold for this piece of rubbish!"
The merchant was taken aback. "Rubbish? I'll have you know that that 'rubbish you hold is a finely piece of crafted art! It would fetch five hundred gold in any auction!"
"Yeah right! An auction for blind philosophers!" Mark shook his head, tossing his wavy black hair. "My price stands at five gold. Take it or leave it."
"You are mad! Fifty gold or nothing!"
"I see. Then we shall be on our way. Come Yukari, this man obviously does not want our business." He took her arm and strolled away. When they were ten paces from the stall, the merchant's voice called them back.
"Do not be so hasty my friend." Said the man, a hint of panic in his voice. "Perhaps we can come to an agreement."
Mark turned around. "Make an offer."
Mark filleted the man alive. The experienced merchant stood no chance against the young man with the eloquent voice. Yukari watched in astonishment as a deal was made. Mark walked away with the gold pentagram amulet, a crystal bottle of Cesarian perfume, a jeweled belt, and a pair of silver earrings all for just thirty-two gold. "There you go. That ought to add some glitter to your wardrobe." Mark said, sounding pleased.
Yukari just stared at him. "How the hell did you do that?"
Mark shrugged. "I'm Cesarian, I know how to haggle. The trick is to make them think that you'll walk away if you don't get what you want." He smiled. "So, what are you going to do with your new wardrobe?"
Yukari gaped. "Are you serious?"
"Of course. What am I going to do with jewelry? And I can tell you really like it."
Yukari smiled and hugged him tight about the waist. "You're so sweet!"
"Um.Yukari? I can't breath."
Startled, Yukari looked into his blue face and immediately let go. With a deep breath, Mark smiled and rubbed his ribs. "You're strong, you know that?"
The rest of the morning passed well. Yukari paused a few moments to put on her new jewelry and soon she was flashing with the sun. Her new earrings went especially well with the rest of the metal hanging from her ear. Gazing into a mirror she had recently acquired, she smiled. "Now I really look like slut."
Mark snorted. "The most elegant slut in the world if you please!"
Yukari playfully punched him in the ribs and they strolled on.
All too soon, it was lunchtime. Stopping to eat, they picked a pleasant outdoors restaurant. Sitting down in some shade, they relaxed. While they waited for the food to arrive, Mark looked over at Yukari. "You look really pretty, you know?"
Yukari smiled. "That's because you have excellent taste." She fingered her ear and sighed. "I hope this afternoon will be as productive as this morning was."
"Don't worry. We haven't seen half of this place yet."
They talked over their purchases until lunch came. Mark had ordered some sort of pasta that Yukari had never seen before, and she'd got a wild boar sandwich. Chewing away, they still managed to talk, and the conversation turned to their lives.
"Well," Mark swallowed, "I grew up with my mother and my three sisters. The guys in the Mystics used to say all those women made me girly." He chuckled. "Maybe they were right. They were the ones to teach me how to haggle."
"I'll have you know that haggling is the noblest of sports!" Yukari's voice was filled with pride. "It's less painful than dueling, and more exciting than mind puzzles. The results aren't always so clear cut as someone being run through, or a right or wrong answer. Sometimes no one wins."
"Well either way, my grandfather taught me to fight, and I joined the Mystics two years later." Mark shook his head. "And here I am. Not where I'd expected, I'll tell you that. But not unwelcome either." He watched Yukari as he said that, and she suddenly became absorbed in her sandwich.
Lunch ended soon after, and they were on their way again. However, an unwelcome presence was destined to butt in.
"You there!"
Yukari turned and groaned. "Not him again!" Mark scowled. "Doesn't he ever give up?"
Lord Whatever, double chins and all, was waddling arrogantly down the street. Merchants and buyers alike cleared the way, for he had two large men with him. He stopped right in front of Yukari, eyes burning with what little fire they had. "You, peasant" He began grandly, "Are under arrest for assault on a noble person!"
Yukari shook her head in exasperation. "Are you out of your mind? You challenged me to a duel, and I won! If anyone was assaulting, it was you!"
One of the guards spoke. "Nevertheless, his lordship here has presented a complaint, and we must take you in for questioning. Please come peacefully."
"But I didn't do anything!"
"Listen here!" Mark stepped forward, an angry light in his eyes. "You can't do this! Lord Whatever here ordered her to, and I quote, 'kiss his feet'. When she refused to do so, he challenged her to a duel, quote, 'within the hour'. So Yukari knocked him out! Now tell me, does that sound like the terms of the duel were met?" Mark finished with a flourish.
One of the guards nodded, but the talky one didn't look convinced. Lord Whatever was fuming.
"It is a lie!" He cried. "I merely stopped for directions and she viciously attacked me!" He glared at Mark. "And my name is Thistlebottom! Gellga Thistlebottom!"
Yukari cracked up. She bent over, hands clutching her sides, gasping for breath as tears rolled down her face and hysterical laughter escaped from her lips. The silent guard joined in and soon everyone within earshot was laughing loudly. Except for Lord Thistlebottom.
"I'll teach you manners!" He yelled, then he slapped Yukari across the face.
The laughter died instantly, as Mark surged forward and lifted Thistlebottom two feet off the ground by the collar. With a flick of his free hand, he produced a knife and pressed it against his throat. Pupils dilating, Mark hissed like a dragon. "Now you arrogant son of a bitch" He snarled, "You are going to apologize to her, or you are going to spend the rest of your life sucking your meals through straws!"
The Lord struggled quite uselessly. "What are you doing?" He yelled at the guards. "Stop him!"
But the guards were no longer on his side. The talky one had turned around and marched away. The other one glared at Thistlebottom. "We don't take kindly to men who strike women, your 'Lordship'." Then he too left the scene.
Alone, friendless, and surrounded by hostile people, Thistlebottom did the only thing he could have done. He apologized and hurried away, trying to reassemble what was left of his damaged dignity.
Mark glared furiously at his back. "Slimy bastard." He muttered. He felt a hand on his arm.
Yukari smiled shyly at him. "Thank you."
Mark opened his mouth to talk but no words came out. It was like this morning. He was captivated by what he saw.
Yukari pecked him on the cheek and, blushing, turned toward another merchant's stand. Mark placed a hand on his cheek in wonder. Before he had time to mull on this, however, something caught his eye. A silver double star. When he turned his full attention to that symbol, he gasped. He tapped Yukari's shoulder, trying to get her attention.
"Yukari" He said, "That man over there. He's a Mystic."
Her attention was immediately caught. "Are you sure?"
"Sure I'm sure. I've seen him around before. He's one of Kriggen's henchmen. But what's he doing here?"
"Let's follow him."
Nodding, Mark set out after Yukari. The two followed the man, trying to blend into the crowd. It wasn't easy, as people kept jostling them, making them lose track of the man. Eventually, however, he went into an alley. Yukari stepped up against one side and gestured for Mark to do the same. Craning their necks, they sought to hear the man. But the footsteps had stopped.
Yukari smiled. She had inherited both her parents' love of risks too much not to take the chance. Creeping forward, she was about to step into the alley when a hand stopped her. Mark shook his head frantically. She merely smiled. He really was a sweetie. 'It's okay.' She mouthed. 'I'll be alright.'
Mark seemed to think about this. Then his grip slackened. 'Be careful.' He mouthed back. With a wink, Yukari stepped into the alley.
A few meters in, she knew that she'd have to be quiet. The slightest sound would echo off the walls. So, when she caught sight of the man, she ducked behind a garbage bin and waited.
Soon, another man walked in the opposite end of the alley. He greeted the first man like a subordinate. "What news?" He grated.
"I have discovered where the sword is, my lord Kriggen." Yukari blinked. Kriggen? The sword? She listened more carefully.
"Excellent! Return to the camp. Prepare the troops. In two days we will seize the weapon and eliminate the concerns that fool has."
"Sir, should we not inform Kasar about this plan?"
Kriggen waved a hand in dismissal. "No, let him sweat. When we do tell him, we'll have the objective and force him to pay us extra for it. Now get moving. I expect you to be back before I am."
"Yes sir." The man bowed and hurried out the way he came, nearly tripping over Yukari in the process. Kriggen waited in the alley for a few more minutes. After a while, he began to talk to himself.
"Why does Veers want them so badly? Ah well. It's no skin off my teeth. This fits perfectly. They'll regret humiliating my boys so badly that day!" Chuckling, Kriggen started to turn. Then he whirled around and stared straight at Yukari's garbage bin. He could have sworn he heard something.
Nothing moved. Nothing breathed. And slowly, Kriggen turned around and left the alley. Only when she was sure he was gone, did Yukari relax and come out from her hiding place.
Mark was waiting for you at the opening of the alley, nearly beside himself with worry. "You're alright!" He nearly hugged her in relief. "I thought you were dead!"
Yukari smiled. "Calm down Mark. I'm fine." The smile faded. "But something's up."
"What do you mean?"
Yukari quickly filled in Mark. When she was done, he was scratching his chin and frowning in thought.
"He makes it seem like revenge is such a big deal to him. For such a stupid reason, too! Is anyone really that crazy?"
Yukari nodded. "My mother ran across someone who was crazy enough to do it. But Kriggen made it sound like he was getting paid to for this revenge! And Kasar is involved."
"Which means that General Veers is involved." Mark added grimly.
"Who the hell is this guy?" Yukari asked. "And why would he want my parents?"
Mark shrugged. "I don't know much. Apparently he's a powerful leader in Basram. Rumor has it that he's really the one in charge, not king Dayton. One thing I do know is that he defines the word nationalist."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean that he believes Basram is the most important country on Gaea."
Yukari mulled this over. 'Okay' She thought, 'Veers is hiring Kriggen to find some sort of sword. But why? And what is this sword?' Unbidden, Hitomi's prophecy came to mind.
"Peace once long ago attained Will very soon be threatened again. A new ambition dark will rise And flashing death will fill the skies. But hope remains, still burning bright. Fate can change for those with sight. And when does rise the Dragon's sword All will relive the days he roared."
Yukari paced back and forth. "This has to do with that prophecy." Mark was puzzled.
"The one your mother gave?"
"How many others do you know of? Of course the one my mother gave!"
Mark held up his hands to ward off an assault. "Then I guess we should find out who this 'dragon' is."
Yukari stopped. Something hit her. Something from the past. "Oh crap."
"What?" Mark asked, puzzled.
"Oh crap!"
"What?
"Oh CRAP!"
"WHAT!"
Yukari grabbed Mark's arm and started running toward the castle. "I think I know who the dragon is. And if I'm right, Kriggen getting his sword would be very bad!"
***
"I hope you realise that this is crazy." Sabrina hissed.
"I've never claimed to have any great sanity." Setto replied, shrugging. "In fact, given my parents, I probably don't."
The two were implementing Setto's second favourite method of sneaking out: disguises. He was eager to try his favourite way, but an explosion in the castle would be too hard to explain to Van. So instead, he was dressed as a well-to-do nobleman, and Sabrina was to be his daughter. He'd tried to get her to be his servant, but she flat out refused. When he'd suggested his concubine, she smacked him in the head. So here they were, a lovely father and daughter couple out for a day at the bazaar.
Unfortunately, the plan had a few glaring omissions. Such as the fact that they were the same age. To make himself appear taller, Setto had placed stilts in his pant legs, and attached a false beard. And to prevent the guards from recognising Sabrina, he'd dyed her black hair a glossy brown, and had a maid set it up in an intricate braid. Setto was a master of disguise, and soon 'Lord Tsarack' and his 'daughter' were in visual range of the castle gates.
The two men on duty saluted. "Good morning my lord. Out for a bit of shopping?"
"Indeed." Said Setto in his best nobleman voice. "Have the merchants set up yet?"
"They've been set up since before dawn."
"Good. Then we shall not keep them waiting. Come Lusankya." Beckoning to Sabrina, he strolled leisurely out into the sun kissed streets.
As soon as they were out of sight of the door guards, they ducked into an alley and quickly switched back to their original clothes. "There you go." Setto said as he removed his disguise, revealing the many-pocketed shirt he'd got from the wardrobe. "That was easy enough."
Sabrina glared at him. "Lusankya?"
Setto shrugged. "That's the price you pay for freedom. Now, can you honestly tell me that wasn't fun?"
Sabrina glared at him. "I've known you for two hours and I already consider you crazy, frivolous, and remarkably arrogant, and that last comment didn't help in the slightest."
Setto smiled, showing a great many teeth. "Thank you! Now what's say we go have some fun?" He offered her his arm.
Sabrina ground her teeth in frustration. "Alright." Reluctantly, she took the offered limb and allowed Setto to lead her from the alley into the broad street.
***
Three hours later, Setto was still going strong. He'd made it his goal for the day to get Sabrina to laugh. Despite repeated attempts and continuous ploys, her face remained, at best, carefully expressionless.
He'd taken her to every attraction he could find. They'd seen snake charmers call forth their serpentine pets and make them dance to the music of their wooden pipes, they'd watched as a juggler had tossed flaming torches, and they'd been to all manner of shops, tents, tracks, and shows, all without a crack in Sabrina's marble façade.
They had just gone through a maze set up for the occasion, when a shout for help pulled their attention.
The street quickly emptied. Soon, a man came by, running full tilt, and an expression that said he had good reason to run.
Setto watched him curiously. "Why do you suppose he's running?"
"That's why." Sabrina's voice was strangely tight.
With a clatter of armour and cries of 'Halt', two armoured men came barrelling after the running man. Their armour was the most recognisable thing about them. Their breastplates and leg armour were finely carved to resemble scales, and their helmets were designed to look like the gaping maw of a snake. Steel faceplates hid the faces of the men, but they could be heard clearly enough.
"Stop! I order you to halt in the name of the Silver Serpents!" The nearer one stopped and, in a flash, unslung a crossbow and had it pointed at the fleeing man.
"No, don't!" Setto yelled. But it was too late. The bolt was away, and within seconds, it struck its target with enough force to spin the man around before he hit the ground in a pool of his own blood.
The guard with the crossbow stood and lifted his mask, revealing a cruel smile. Turning to his fellow, he laughed. "Well he won't be stealing from us again!"
"Unless it's a new heart!" His buddy added.
The two guards laughed. Setto's teeth ground and he unconsciously moved forward. He was right in one's face before they noticed him. Scowling, the man said, "Get lost, or you're next!"
"What the hell do you think you're doing?!" Setto yelled, temper flaring. "Why'd you kill him?!"
The guard waved a hand airily. "He stole a few coins. He got what he deserved."
"You can't just go around killing people with no real excuse!"
Frowning, the soldier stepped forward aggressively. "Don't start lecturing us, pal, or you just might find yourself in a landfill!" His gaze turned to Sabrina and he licked his lips hungrily. "Who's the girl? She'd look fine in my bed, with no clothes- Ugh!" His last words were choked off as Setto's dagger entered his ribs.
Startled, the other man drew his sword and attacked, but Setto had his ninjato out and parried easily.
Setto went on an all out offensive. Sword flashing and twirling, the enemy backed up, panic starting to show. Desperately, he slashed viciously at Setto's head, but missed when he ducked. Next thing he knew, he was backed against a wall. He didn't even have time to cry for mercy before Setto's sword pinned him up against the wall.
Twisting his blade, Setto stared into the eyes of the dying man. "In the next world" He hissed "Try and treat people a little nicer. They might not decide to kill you." With that, he pulled out his blade and let the corpse fall to the ground.
He heard footsteps, and a hand yanked him around. He saw Sabrina's furious face. "What the hell do you think you were doing?" She yelled. "Trying to get yourself killed?"
Setto shrugged. "I was trying to teach them a lesson in manners." He saw she didn't believe him. "Oh come on! He basically called you a whore! And you saw what he did to that poor man! Besides, the second one attacked me. I had no choice to defend myself."
"You don't get it! They were Silver Serpents, the elite army of Basram! Father's personal guard!"
"So?"
"So, when he finds out what you did, he'll have you killed!"
Setto leaned on his sword. "He doesn't have to know then, does he?" Sabrina made a frustrated sound and her eye twitched.
Suddenly Setto's sword slipped, and, with a surprised 'Damn it!' he was sent sprawling into the dust of the road. As he struggled back up, he slipped on a rock and went down again.
Sabrina watched this, no emotion on her face. Then, the tiniest glint appeared in her eye. The corner of her mouth tilted upward slightly. Slowly, painstakingly, the rest of her mouth followed. A small sound escaped from her lips. The sound turned into a chuckle, which evolved into a giggle. Finally, when Setto had tripped for the third time in a row, Sabrina Veers, the one who'd been called the humourless ice maiden, burst out into loud, hysterical laughter. Clutching her sides, she bent over, unable to get a breath, as she laughed, and laughed, and laughed.
When Setto was finally to his feet, he glared at her. "What's so funny?"
This just caused even more laughter. Setto just stared at his companion, and thought about it. There he was, elegantly defeating to trained fighters and not a moment later, he tripped over his own feet. That was pretty funny!
Soon, both teenagers were on the ground laughing.
Eventually, however, it died down into giggles. Desperately trying to compose themselves, they stood up and brushed themselves off.
"I haven't laughed like that since I was five years old." Sabrina said, grinning.
"Maybe you should try it more often!"
"Yeah, I should." Suddenly her tone turned serious. "You know.I actually had fun today."
"Really? I couldn't tell."
"Don't be a smart ass."
Setto raised his hands in defence. "No. I really couldn't tell. You didn't show any emotion whatsoever! You could have out stared a politician!"
Sabrina smiled again. "Call it a talent of mine. Now, shall we leave the scene of the crime before the city guard finds these gentlemen?"
Setto glanced at the bodies. "Oh yeah. Let's go."
The two raced down an alley. Along the way, Sabrina said, "You know, all this sneaking about is really."
"Exhilarating?"
"Yeah. We should do this more often."
Setto grinned. "I believe I discern a protégé."
A/N: So Yukari has found out something. Read the next chapter to find out! Will Mark ever just kiss her? Has Setto found himself a new friend? Find out the answers to these questions and more.on Escaflowne!
Dilandau-with-a-cowboy-hat: And don't forget to review!
