Another beautiful sunset was making itself seen in Gaea. The sky was many different shades of orange and pink, and the mountains were tinted purple by the rapidly approaching night. A few stray clouds reflected the last rays of the sun causing them to glow like polished pearls.
Adrina stared at all of this through the small window in the dark room as the floating fortress approached the Duchy of Freid. It was early evening and dinner had been finished no more than ten minutes ago. Folken and Dilandau had decided to discuss their next move over a glass of wine in a small room near the main dining hall. Despite Dilandau's protests, Adrina had been allowed to join them. She sat quietly and sipped her wine while the men discussed their plans. Currently, they were contemplating the fate of Dilandau 's captured soldier Migel.
"The dragon has fled the field," Folken stated.
Dilandau chuckled. "Do tell."
"Along with their prisoner," Folken added.
"There's nothing to worry about," Dilandau assured, "You see, Migel is one of my men. He would sooner die than talk."
A stifled giggle from Adrina brought both men's attention to her. Not realizing she had laughed at Dilandau's words out loud, she quickly groped for an explanation. "Sorry," she apologized, "I think the wine must be getting to me."
Dilandau scowled at Adrina while Folken continued the conversation.
"Perhaps," Folken admitted to Dilandau's previous comment, "but don't forget that Freid has Plaktu."
"Who's that?" Dilandau asked without much interest.
"Plaktu is a priest who is a master of hypnotic suggestion," Folken answered, "He can use those techniques to extract information from the furthest recesses of the mind. It's been confirmed that he's already on his way to Godashim."
"This is not acceptable!" Dilandau exclaimed, "We have to kill him before he reaches the castle. He'll ruin our plans!"
Folken closed his eyes. "Zhangi."
"Huh?" Dilandau questioned, "What did you say?"
Adrina was wondering the same thing when a movement on the wall behind Dilandau caught her eye. The wall rippled as if it was nothing but a reflection in a pool of water that had been disturbed by something. Her eyes widened as the ripples grew and a stench like burning flesh and sulfur assaulted her nose. The smell didn't seem to bother Folken, but Dilandau was noticeably troubled by it.
"What is that smell?" he demanded and covered his mouth and nose with his hand.
Adrina gasped as a form began to materialize out of the wall. Once she realized what it was, she screamed and jumped back from the table, knocking her wine glass over in the process.
Dilandau saw the newcomer, who bowed next to the table, and took a few steps back with an exclamation of "but he's a doppelganger!"
Adrina backed up until her body was pressed to the wall and she suddenly wished that she hadn't been allowed to join Folken for wine after dinner. Adrina had never seen a doppelganger before but had heard about them in countless stories. They were murderers, she knew, who killed and then stole the body, mind and soul of their victim, giving them a perfect disguise. The stench in the room was now overpowering and that along with her fear threatened to make her sick.
"I have a task for you Zhangi," Folken spoke to the monster.
"What is you wish?" the doppelganger hissed, "I live only to serve you, Lord Folken."
"One of the dragonslayers has been captured," Folken informed, "and is being held in the castle at Freid. The prince has called for Plaktu to interrogate the soldier. I trust you know of Plaktu and his abilities?"
"Yes," Zhangi hissed and licked his lips.
Adrina let out a small whimper and began to shake, drawing the monster's attention. It's large, green eyes fixed on her and she trembled harder. Folken noticed too and called to her.
"Do not be frightened Adrina," Folken consoled, "Zhangi will not harm you."
"Indeed," the monster agreed, "I serve Lord Folken. If he wishes me to do you no harm, then I won't."
"Come and sit back down," Folken invited and held out his hand. She did not want to come any closer to the doppelganger than she was, but she didn't want to disappoint Folken. She shuffled over to him and put her hand into his, with which he guided her back into her seat. He then righted her glass and poured her some more of the blood red alcohol. After he was done, he turned back to Zhangi.
"Plaktu mustn't get to the castle," Folken ordered, "I'm counting on you to stop him."
"As you wish, My Lord." The words escaped the monster's mouth like a teapot whistling.
"Good," Folken nodded, "Dilandau will take you out on the guymelef. When the ship carrying Plaktu passes, he will launch you onto it via metal claw. Understood?"
"What?" Dilandau cried, "You want me to help that?" He pointed in disgust at Zhangi.
"You will do as I ordered," Folken said calmly.
"Yes, Folken," Dilandau agreed, irritated. He stood up from the table and exited the room quickly, not bothering to see if Zhangi was following.
"Lord Folken." Zhangi bowed his head low in farewell and then disappeared back into the wall. The sickening aroma vanished as soon as the doppelganger had departed.
Once it was gone, Adrina let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding and shakily lifted her glass to her lips. She gulped down the wine, hoping it would steady her nerves.
"There really was nothing to be afraid of," Folken insisted, "Zhangi would never hurt you."
"I'm sorry," Adrina apologized, the tremors in her body finally subsiding, "I didn't mean to act so foolish."
"It's all right," Folken assured and poured her another glassful of wine, "Many people react like that when they see Zhangi. Most don't live to tell about it."
Adrina didn't reply and sipped her wine, ashamed she had broken down in front of Folken again. She wanted him to think of her as a strong, fearless woman, not a scared, quaking child. So far she had only portrayed the latter. She hoped that sometime soon she would be able to prove who she really was to Folken.
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Adrina sat quietly as the carriage descended to the ground aboard the loading platform. Folken sat next to her, equally quiet. He had been troubled since the doppelganger Zhangi hadn't returned after completing the task Folken had assigned to it. Adrina knew that Folken had questioned Dilandau about Zhangi's disappearance, since Dilandau had been the last to see it. Dilandau claimed he knew nothing, but Adrina suspected Folken did not believe him.
Out the carriage window, Adrina could see the capital city of Freid, Godashim, drawing closer as they descended. She knew that Van, Merle and Hitomi were down there somewhere and she desperately wanted to see them, even for a minute. She knew if she attempted to leave Folken's side, he would capture Van himself and take him to Emperor Dornkirk.
The loading platform touched down and the carriage sped towards the market place at Godashim. When Adrina has asked Folken about the purpose of their outing, he claimed that he needed to get out of the floating fortress fro awhile and assumed she did too. While in fact Adrina grasped at any chance to escape the dismal prison, she suspected that Folken had an ulterior motive for their trip to the market place.
The carriage came to a stop just outside the city, where two uniformed Zaibach soldiers were waiting. They saluted as Folken and Adrina stepped from their transport. Once they had departed, the carriage hurried off to wait for them in a more private location.
As they walked towards the marketplace, Adrina spoke. "Why do we need the soldiers Folken?"
"For protection," Folken answered, "If Van has told the Duke about Zaibach's plans, he very well may have warned the people of Godashim. If that is so, there is a good chance that they won't enjoy me strolling down their streets."
Adrina nodded and said no more as they reached the marketplace and the different wares and foods caught her eye. Adrina's eyes lit up as she took in the marvels of the marketplace. Adrina darted from booth to booth, most of the time dragging Folken along with her. He complied without resistance and the Zaibach soldiers trailed quietly behind.
"Folken, look!" Adrina exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement, "Asturian chocolate! I thought they only sold this in Palas! Do you remember the time when we all went to Palas and you took me, Van and Merle to the bizarre and bought us all a piece of this?"
She saw a look of sorrow pass over his face and immediately wished she hadn't brought if up. Her smile faded into an ashamed frown.
"Yes," he nodded solemnly, "I remember."
"I'm sorry," Adrina apologized, "I didn't mean to..."
"Don't apologize," Folken interrupted, "You've done nothing wrong."
Adrina nodded but her smile did not return. Seeing the despondent look on her face, he took it upon himself to make her feel better.
"Vendor!" he called. The salesman turned his attention to Folken.
"Can I help you sir?" the vendor questioned.
"I'd like two pieces of the Asturian chocolate," Folken told him.
"Yes sir." The vendor wrapped the pieces of candy in a decorative package.
Folken paid the vendor and took the parcel from him. He thanked the vendor and turned to Adrina, who stood next to him, her eyes expectant. A slight smirk curled Folken's lips as he saw her anticipation. He slowly unwrapped the festive package and plucked one of the chocolate candies out of it. He held it between his thumb and forefinger for a second, teasingly, then popped the morsel into his mouth.
"Mmm," Folken commented, "that's delicious." He looked down into the package that rested in his right hand, "I don't think I can eat another one though. What should I do with this one?"
"You can give it to me," Adrina suggested playfully.
Folken looked around the marketplace, shielding his eyes with his left hand, "I don't see anybody who looks as if they like candy, I guess I'll just have to throw it away."
"No!" Adrina cried, "You can give it to me! I like candy!"
Folken stopped scanning the crowds and looked down at Adrina with mock surprise, "Oh, I'm sorry. Did you say you wanted it?"
"Yes!" Adrina insisted.
"Oh okay," Folken took the other chocolate out of the package and held it out to her, "Here you go."
Adrina reached for it eagerly, but before she could take it, he pulled his hand back. "Hey!" Adrina exclaimed. She grabbed for the candy again, but he held it over her head, just out of reach. Adrina jumped for it, but her hands fell just short of her target. After seeing how close she had come, Folken extended his arm all the way above his head. The candy was now over seven feet in the air, but Adrina wasn't about to give up. She jumped again but wasn't even close. Seeing she needed some sort of leverage, she placed her left hand on his right shoulder, feeling the hard metal beneath his cloak, and pushed herself up towards the chocolate. She had gotten a lot closer, but still didn't reach the sweet morsel. Determined now, Adrina launched herself at the candy again. She missed once again and as she landed, she felt Folken's right arm tighten around her back, pressing her body against his. Surprised by his actions, Adrina looked up at him. His face held no emotion, but his eyes were so intense that her breath caught in her throat. The reddish brown pools held an emotion that Adrina had never seen before. Folken continued to gaze down at her, making her heartbeat quicken and her entire body tingle. Even through his clothes she could feel the warmth of his body and she was suddenly aware of how right it felt to be pressed against him like she was.
Folken stared down at Adrina, painfully aware of how close she was to him. He had no idea why he had pulled her against him, it was almost as if his arm had a mind of it's own. With her this close, he could smell her scent, the same scent she had had as a child, the scent of flowers. When she had been younger he had always thought it was a sweet smell, but now that she was a grown woman, the scent was sexy, intoxicating. He felt as if her scent was taking over his mind and knew that if he didn't push her away soon, he was going to lose control.
Adrina felt a pang of disappointment as Folken gently pushed her away. He brought his arm down and held the candy out to her.
"Here," he offered, "I'm through teasing you."
Folken smiled slightly and Adrina had the distinct feeling he was trying to cover up the emotions in his eyes. It's too late, Adrina thought and put the chocolate into her mouth, I already saw those swirling thoughts and feelings in your eyes. I just hope you didn't see them mirrored in my own. She smiled up at Folken.
"Thank you for the chocolate, Folken," Adrina said.
"You're welcome," Folken told her, but avoided her gaze. The same emotionless look had returned and Adrina began to wonder if she had only imagined the intense passion and longing she had seen not a moment ago.
They went to the few remaining booths into he marketplace, but nothing appealed to Adrina. She was still shaken by her experience with Folken. After they had visited the last booth the two of them turned and headed back to where they had entered the marketplace, the soldiers following slowly behind.
They were just leaving the marketplace when a citizen ran up to the two of them and screamed, "Die Zaibach scum!" Folken and Adrina turned to the young man in surprise. Adrina gasped when she saw the afternoon sunlight glinting off the blade of a sword. Adrina could see the bloodlust on the man's face and realized he was going straight for Folken. The two soldiers were too far behind to be on any assistance. Before Folken could react, Adrina had grabbed his sword and pulled it out of it's sheath. She barely had time to turn around before the man was upon them. He swung his sword at Folken, but never connected as the sound of steel hitting steel rang loudly through the crowded streets. Adrina had quickly and gracefully stepped in front of Folken and had deflected the man's sword with Folken's. They stood like that for a couple of seconds trying to overpower one another before Adrina pulled back Folken's sword and swung it at the attacker's. The sword spun from his hand and skittered across the dirt. Before he had even realized what she'd done, Adrina had kicked his legs out from under him. A second after he hit the ground, the point of Folken's sword was pressed against the attackers throat, defeating all hopes of escape he might have had.
Folken watched in shocked admiration as Adrina dispatched the attacker quickly and efficiently. He recognized her movements as the ones Balgus taught but she moved with such stealth and grace that she made the moves all her own. She is an amazing woman, Folken thought as she leaned closer to the man on the ground while still keeping the sword pressed to his throat.
"Now," Adrina growled, though Folken thought it sounded more like a purr, "Who sent you to kill him?" She nodded her head at Folken without taking her eyes off of her captive or letting up the pressure on the sword. Folken marveled at the way her face had changed from happiness to calm dominance and subdued rage. The look of a warrior, Folken thought.
"No one!" the man cried, "no one sent me. No one had to send me. I came to kill that Zaibach bastard on my own!"
For the comment about Folken, the man received a sharp kick to his leg from Adrina. He grimaced but didn't cry out.
"I would advise you to refrain from calling Folken names," Adrina told him, then as an afterthought, added, "Unless of course you feel like dying today. If that's the case, feel free to say anything you'd like but I can imagine that the feel of a sword blade slowly piercing your neck is not a pleasant one." The man's eyes widened at her ruthless comments, "Now that we have that cleared up, maybe you'd like to tell us why you tried to assassinate Folken."
As she had been threatening the man, the two Zaibach soldiers had joined them, along with a rapidly growing crowd. The soldiers had started to step forward and take over but Folken had stopped them. He knew that Adrina had it under control and didn't need their help.
"He destroyed Fanelia!" the man shouted.
"And that is of consequence to you how?" Adrina inquired. She knew everyone who had lived in Fanelia and she had never seen this man before.
"My sister and her family lived there," the man told her, "He destroyed everything they owned!"
"And that justifies cold blooded murder?" Adrina questioned, her calm demeanor remaining, "Their possessions may have been destroyed, but I know for a fact there were no fatalities among the women and children of Fanelia, including your sister."
"How do you know that?" the man asked.
"Because Fanelia is my homeland," Adrina divulged, "and I was there when Zaibach attacked. All the women and children escaped before the actual fighting even began."
"You're from Fanelia?" the man questioned with surprise but the surprise quickly turned back to rage, "then you have betrayed your country by defending this Zaibach filth! You have betrayed your homeland, it's people, your King..." The man was silenced by another kick to his legs.
"I warned you once about the name calling," Adrina reminded, "Next time it will be the sword."
The look on the man's face told he believed her. Folken now walked up next to Adrina and was surprised to see that her eyes had changed since she had taken his sword to defend him. Eyes that were usually a light lavender-blue were now deep midnight purple. The transformation from carefree captive to fierce warrior was so complete; Folken would almost swear they were two different people.
"Next time you get it in your head to do something as foolish as trying to kill a Zaibach soldier," Adrina began, "I suggest you practice with the sword more and make sure he's alone." Adrina pulled the sword back a bit and turned to the two Zaibach soldiers. "I'm done with him. Take him to the authorities and tell them he attacked someone. A few days in prison ought to calm him down.
The two soldiers stared in awe at Adrina, then over at Folken.
She can give orders too, Folken thought then said to the soldiers, "Do as she said!"
The soldiers hurried forward and picked the man up off the ground. The each held an arm and began to drag him towards the local authority building. Seeing the action was over, the crowd dissipated quickly. Adrina turned and watched the soldiers dragging the man, Folken's sword still clutched in her hand and her eyes still dark. She turned her attention away from the soldiers as Folken walked up next to her. He gently pulled the sword out of her hand and returned it to it's sheath. As he did this, her eyes faded back to pale lavender and her face lost the calm look it held and replaced it with the one he was used to seeing.
"That was most impressive," Folken praised.
A light blush spread over Adrina's cheeks. "Thanks."
"That swordplay," Folken continued, "those moves were from Balgus' teaching, were they not?"
Before Adrina could answer, the carriage pulled up. Folken opened the door for Adrina and then climbed in himself. Once they were moving, Adrina turned to Folken.
"In answer to your question, yes those moves are Balgus'," Adrina told him.
"The grace and agility with which you execute them makes them all yours," Folken complimented. The blush that had occupied her cheeks a few minutes ago came flooding back. He smiled slightly and continued, "May I ask how you learned them?"
"Balgus taught me," Adrina informed. Folken said nothing, but the look in his eyes urged her to continue, which she did, "After my parents died, I needed something to take my mind off of things," Adrina watched Folken's face, looking for a reaction to her comment about her parents' deaths. She saw none. What she didn't know was that Folken had kept up on the news of Fanelia through the years, learning of his mother's disappearance and eventually Adrina's parents' death in this way.
"I was seventeen at the time," Adrina continued, "Van had just turned fourteen and Balgus insisted that he begin training for the right of succession. Van hated the lessons and did everything to get out of them. I, on the other hand, was fascinated by the techniques that Balgus used. At a lesson, I picked up a sword and I knew I had to learn all I could about how to use it. I begged Balgus and eventually he agreed to teach me too. Now every time I pick up a sword, a change comes over me. I don't know how to explain it." She laughed, "Van and Merle called it my 'warrior mode'."
"You don't have to explain it," Folken assured, "I saw it. You were in complete control with the sword in your hand." Folken paused and looked over at her, "Would you really have killed him?"
"For calling you names?" Adrina chuckled, "Probably not. But..." Folken watched as her eyes darkened to the same deep purple as before, "If he had hurt you, he would have been dead before he had time to acknowledge his accomplishment."
Folken stared wonderingly down at Adrina. Her face had once again contorted into the mask of a warrior and he cold see that she meant it when she said she would've killed the attacker if he had hurt Folken. Even as he watched, her eyes faded back to normal and she smiled slightly.
"But he didn't hurt you so there's really no reason to dwell on it."
"He didn't hurt me because you didn't allow him to," Folken told her and grabbed her right hand with his left, "You saved my life and for that I am truly grateful."
Adrina's entire face turned red as Folken pressed a lingering kiss to the back of her hand. She could feel the warmth on her face but it was nothing compared to the fire she felt when Folken's lips touched her. The fire spread throughout her entire body and she felt like she was being burned alive from the inside. Just when she thought she could take it no more, Folken pulled his lips away from her hand and the fire subsided, the only remnant was the tingling sensation on the back of her hand where his lips had been. Adrina looked up at Folken and hoped he couldn't see how ragged her breath was or feel her pounding heartbeat in her hand that he still held in his own.
"With those sword skills you could've escaped long ago," Folken commented as the carriage began to rise towards the floating fortress on top of the loading platform, "why haven't you?"
"I couldn't let Van..."
"You and I both know that Van will not be captured," Folken stopped her, "He would die before he let himself be taken prisoner, so what is it Adrina? What is the real reason you don't escape?"
"I...I want to stay," Adrina admitted, "Stay on the floating fortress. With you."
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Folken stood in the communications room, listening to Dornkirk rattle on about his destiny prognostication engine. Folken was barely listening. He was trying to figure out how to bring up the attack in Godashim. He wanted to discuss something with Dornkirk and ask him a favor. Luckily for Folken, after his rant about his machine, Dornkirk mention the assassin.
"I have been told that an attempt was made on you life in Godashim today," Dornkirk began.
News travels fast, Folken thought. "Yes, Lord that is correct."
"And I trust your soldier escort dispatched the problem?" Dornkirk inquired.
This was the opportunity Folken had been waiting for and he took it. "No Lord, the soldiers were lagging behind and it was actually the prisoner Adrina who dealt with the assassin."
"The prisoner?" Dornkirk exclaimed in surprise.
Folken nodded, "Before I could react, she took my sword and dispatched the attacker quickly."
"Is that admiration I hear in your voice Folken?" Dornkirk asked.
Folken was silent for a moment. "She saved my life, does she not deserve my respect?'
"She does indeed," Dornkirk agreed, "but I sense there is something you're not telling me."
"I want to ask a favor of you, Lord," Folken confessed.
"Proceed."
"I want Adrina to become a noble of the Zaibach Empire," Folken informed, "And I want her assigned to me as my personal body guard."
"You want me to make the prisoner a Lady of Zaibach?" Dornkirk questioned. Folken nodded. "Folken, she is not loyal to Zaibach. She is a prisoner. She would most certainly abuse her power and escape at the earliest possible opportunity."
"No," Folken disagreed, "she is loyal to me. If she thinks she is solely responsible for my safety, she will not escape."
Dornkirk sighed, "Are you absolutely sure about this?"
"Yes Lord," Folken assured.
"The penalty for betraying Zaibach is death," Dornkirk reminded, "you know this right?"
"Yes."
"All right," Dornkirk agreed, "the forces are being launched against Freid tomorrow before dawn. Bring the girl to me as soon as she has awakened and I will name her as a Lady of Zaibach."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Folken said. The communication orb turned dark and Folken hurried from the room. He needed to speak to Adrina, but first he must get things ready.
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Adrina sat in her room contemplating her actions from earlier. When that man had charged Folken, Adrina had reacted on instinct. All she could think was Protect Folken! You can't lose him again! After she had taken care of the threat and had gotten back to her room, she had been able to ponder everything. She realized how close she came to losing Folken again and she had almost burst into tears.
Now, two hours later, she lay sprawled on her bed trying to sort out her feelings. The events of the day made her realize that she did have feelings for Folken and that she had practically come out and told him as much when she told him her reason for staying on the floating fortress.
A sudden knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. Adrina sat up quickly.
"Come in," she called. The door opened and Folken entered, carrying a pair of jet-black boots and some folded clothes in black as well.
"I need to discuss something with you," Folken told her and sat the boots and clothes on a chair.
"What is it?" Adrina questioned, obviously concerned, "Is something wrong?"
"No," Folken assured, "but I would like to make a proposition to you." Adrina urged him to continue. "Today I realized that you would make a valuable addition to the Zaibach Empire."
"What are you saying?" Adrina asked slowly.
"I discussed it with Emperor Dornkirk and he has already agreed," Folken continued, "and now the decision is up to you. I want you to join me as a Lady of Zaibach and my personal bodyguard."
"Are you serious?" Adrina questioned, "Folken, I don't know..."
"I understand if you do not want to accept my offer," Folken stated, "but please think about it. I would enjoy nothing more than having you by my side at all times as my personal warrior."
Think about it! Adrina told herself, you'll be with him all the time, you won't be a prisoner anymore and you'll be able to protect him. This is exactly what you want!
"Folken," Adrina started, "I wasn't trained as a bodyguard, but I know I can protect you. I accept your offer."
Folken nodded, "You do realize that you will be a Lady of the Zaibach Empire? You will have to remain loyal to Zaibach at all times."
I will remain loyal to you, Adrina thought, Zaibach can go to Hell. "Yes Folken, I understand."
"Good," Folken smiled slightly, "I will come in the morning to take you to the communication chamber. Emperor Dornkirk will accept you into the Zaibach Empire." He motioned to the clothes he had brought with him, "That is your uniform. You will wear it from now on." Adrina nodded and Folken moved to the door. "I will see you in the morning. Good night Adrina."
"Good night Folken."
Adrina stared at all of this through the small window in the dark room as the floating fortress approached the Duchy of Freid. It was early evening and dinner had been finished no more than ten minutes ago. Folken and Dilandau had decided to discuss their next move over a glass of wine in a small room near the main dining hall. Despite Dilandau's protests, Adrina had been allowed to join them. She sat quietly and sipped her wine while the men discussed their plans. Currently, they were contemplating the fate of Dilandau 's captured soldier Migel.
"The dragon has fled the field," Folken stated.
Dilandau chuckled. "Do tell."
"Along with their prisoner," Folken added.
"There's nothing to worry about," Dilandau assured, "You see, Migel is one of my men. He would sooner die than talk."
A stifled giggle from Adrina brought both men's attention to her. Not realizing she had laughed at Dilandau's words out loud, she quickly groped for an explanation. "Sorry," she apologized, "I think the wine must be getting to me."
Dilandau scowled at Adrina while Folken continued the conversation.
"Perhaps," Folken admitted to Dilandau's previous comment, "but don't forget that Freid has Plaktu."
"Who's that?" Dilandau asked without much interest.
"Plaktu is a priest who is a master of hypnotic suggestion," Folken answered, "He can use those techniques to extract information from the furthest recesses of the mind. It's been confirmed that he's already on his way to Godashim."
"This is not acceptable!" Dilandau exclaimed, "We have to kill him before he reaches the castle. He'll ruin our plans!"
Folken closed his eyes. "Zhangi."
"Huh?" Dilandau questioned, "What did you say?"
Adrina was wondering the same thing when a movement on the wall behind Dilandau caught her eye. The wall rippled as if it was nothing but a reflection in a pool of water that had been disturbed by something. Her eyes widened as the ripples grew and a stench like burning flesh and sulfur assaulted her nose. The smell didn't seem to bother Folken, but Dilandau was noticeably troubled by it.
"What is that smell?" he demanded and covered his mouth and nose with his hand.
Adrina gasped as a form began to materialize out of the wall. Once she realized what it was, she screamed and jumped back from the table, knocking her wine glass over in the process.
Dilandau saw the newcomer, who bowed next to the table, and took a few steps back with an exclamation of "but he's a doppelganger!"
Adrina backed up until her body was pressed to the wall and she suddenly wished that she hadn't been allowed to join Folken for wine after dinner. Adrina had never seen a doppelganger before but had heard about them in countless stories. They were murderers, she knew, who killed and then stole the body, mind and soul of their victim, giving them a perfect disguise. The stench in the room was now overpowering and that along with her fear threatened to make her sick.
"I have a task for you Zhangi," Folken spoke to the monster.
"What is you wish?" the doppelganger hissed, "I live only to serve you, Lord Folken."
"One of the dragonslayers has been captured," Folken informed, "and is being held in the castle at Freid. The prince has called for Plaktu to interrogate the soldier. I trust you know of Plaktu and his abilities?"
"Yes," Zhangi hissed and licked his lips.
Adrina let out a small whimper and began to shake, drawing the monster's attention. It's large, green eyes fixed on her and she trembled harder. Folken noticed too and called to her.
"Do not be frightened Adrina," Folken consoled, "Zhangi will not harm you."
"Indeed," the monster agreed, "I serve Lord Folken. If he wishes me to do you no harm, then I won't."
"Come and sit back down," Folken invited and held out his hand. She did not want to come any closer to the doppelganger than she was, but she didn't want to disappoint Folken. She shuffled over to him and put her hand into his, with which he guided her back into her seat. He then righted her glass and poured her some more of the blood red alcohol. After he was done, he turned back to Zhangi.
"Plaktu mustn't get to the castle," Folken ordered, "I'm counting on you to stop him."
"As you wish, My Lord." The words escaped the monster's mouth like a teapot whistling.
"Good," Folken nodded, "Dilandau will take you out on the guymelef. When the ship carrying Plaktu passes, he will launch you onto it via metal claw. Understood?"
"What?" Dilandau cried, "You want me to help that?" He pointed in disgust at Zhangi.
"You will do as I ordered," Folken said calmly.
"Yes, Folken," Dilandau agreed, irritated. He stood up from the table and exited the room quickly, not bothering to see if Zhangi was following.
"Lord Folken." Zhangi bowed his head low in farewell and then disappeared back into the wall. The sickening aroma vanished as soon as the doppelganger had departed.
Once it was gone, Adrina let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding and shakily lifted her glass to her lips. She gulped down the wine, hoping it would steady her nerves.
"There really was nothing to be afraid of," Folken insisted, "Zhangi would never hurt you."
"I'm sorry," Adrina apologized, the tremors in her body finally subsiding, "I didn't mean to act so foolish."
"It's all right," Folken assured and poured her another glassful of wine, "Many people react like that when they see Zhangi. Most don't live to tell about it."
Adrina didn't reply and sipped her wine, ashamed she had broken down in front of Folken again. She wanted him to think of her as a strong, fearless woman, not a scared, quaking child. So far she had only portrayed the latter. She hoped that sometime soon she would be able to prove who she really was to Folken.
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Adrina sat quietly as the carriage descended to the ground aboard the loading platform. Folken sat next to her, equally quiet. He had been troubled since the doppelganger Zhangi hadn't returned after completing the task Folken had assigned to it. Adrina knew that Folken had questioned Dilandau about Zhangi's disappearance, since Dilandau had been the last to see it. Dilandau claimed he knew nothing, but Adrina suspected Folken did not believe him.
Out the carriage window, Adrina could see the capital city of Freid, Godashim, drawing closer as they descended. She knew that Van, Merle and Hitomi were down there somewhere and she desperately wanted to see them, even for a minute. She knew if she attempted to leave Folken's side, he would capture Van himself and take him to Emperor Dornkirk.
The loading platform touched down and the carriage sped towards the market place at Godashim. When Adrina has asked Folken about the purpose of their outing, he claimed that he needed to get out of the floating fortress fro awhile and assumed she did too. While in fact Adrina grasped at any chance to escape the dismal prison, she suspected that Folken had an ulterior motive for their trip to the market place.
The carriage came to a stop just outside the city, where two uniformed Zaibach soldiers were waiting. They saluted as Folken and Adrina stepped from their transport. Once they had departed, the carriage hurried off to wait for them in a more private location.
As they walked towards the marketplace, Adrina spoke. "Why do we need the soldiers Folken?"
"For protection," Folken answered, "If Van has told the Duke about Zaibach's plans, he very well may have warned the people of Godashim. If that is so, there is a good chance that they won't enjoy me strolling down their streets."
Adrina nodded and said no more as they reached the marketplace and the different wares and foods caught her eye. Adrina's eyes lit up as she took in the marvels of the marketplace. Adrina darted from booth to booth, most of the time dragging Folken along with her. He complied without resistance and the Zaibach soldiers trailed quietly behind.
"Folken, look!" Adrina exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement, "Asturian chocolate! I thought they only sold this in Palas! Do you remember the time when we all went to Palas and you took me, Van and Merle to the bizarre and bought us all a piece of this?"
She saw a look of sorrow pass over his face and immediately wished she hadn't brought if up. Her smile faded into an ashamed frown.
"Yes," he nodded solemnly, "I remember."
"I'm sorry," Adrina apologized, "I didn't mean to..."
"Don't apologize," Folken interrupted, "You've done nothing wrong."
Adrina nodded but her smile did not return. Seeing the despondent look on her face, he took it upon himself to make her feel better.
"Vendor!" he called. The salesman turned his attention to Folken.
"Can I help you sir?" the vendor questioned.
"I'd like two pieces of the Asturian chocolate," Folken told him.
"Yes sir." The vendor wrapped the pieces of candy in a decorative package.
Folken paid the vendor and took the parcel from him. He thanked the vendor and turned to Adrina, who stood next to him, her eyes expectant. A slight smirk curled Folken's lips as he saw her anticipation. He slowly unwrapped the festive package and plucked one of the chocolate candies out of it. He held it between his thumb and forefinger for a second, teasingly, then popped the morsel into his mouth.
"Mmm," Folken commented, "that's delicious." He looked down into the package that rested in his right hand, "I don't think I can eat another one though. What should I do with this one?"
"You can give it to me," Adrina suggested playfully.
Folken looked around the marketplace, shielding his eyes with his left hand, "I don't see anybody who looks as if they like candy, I guess I'll just have to throw it away."
"No!" Adrina cried, "You can give it to me! I like candy!"
Folken stopped scanning the crowds and looked down at Adrina with mock surprise, "Oh, I'm sorry. Did you say you wanted it?"
"Yes!" Adrina insisted.
"Oh okay," Folken took the other chocolate out of the package and held it out to her, "Here you go."
Adrina reached for it eagerly, but before she could take it, he pulled his hand back. "Hey!" Adrina exclaimed. She grabbed for the candy again, but he held it over her head, just out of reach. Adrina jumped for it, but her hands fell just short of her target. After seeing how close she had come, Folken extended his arm all the way above his head. The candy was now over seven feet in the air, but Adrina wasn't about to give up. She jumped again but wasn't even close. Seeing she needed some sort of leverage, she placed her left hand on his right shoulder, feeling the hard metal beneath his cloak, and pushed herself up towards the chocolate. She had gotten a lot closer, but still didn't reach the sweet morsel. Determined now, Adrina launched herself at the candy again. She missed once again and as she landed, she felt Folken's right arm tighten around her back, pressing her body against his. Surprised by his actions, Adrina looked up at him. His face held no emotion, but his eyes were so intense that her breath caught in her throat. The reddish brown pools held an emotion that Adrina had never seen before. Folken continued to gaze down at her, making her heartbeat quicken and her entire body tingle. Even through his clothes she could feel the warmth of his body and she was suddenly aware of how right it felt to be pressed against him like she was.
Folken stared down at Adrina, painfully aware of how close she was to him. He had no idea why he had pulled her against him, it was almost as if his arm had a mind of it's own. With her this close, he could smell her scent, the same scent she had had as a child, the scent of flowers. When she had been younger he had always thought it was a sweet smell, but now that she was a grown woman, the scent was sexy, intoxicating. He felt as if her scent was taking over his mind and knew that if he didn't push her away soon, he was going to lose control.
Adrina felt a pang of disappointment as Folken gently pushed her away. He brought his arm down and held the candy out to her.
"Here," he offered, "I'm through teasing you."
Folken smiled slightly and Adrina had the distinct feeling he was trying to cover up the emotions in his eyes. It's too late, Adrina thought and put the chocolate into her mouth, I already saw those swirling thoughts and feelings in your eyes. I just hope you didn't see them mirrored in my own. She smiled up at Folken.
"Thank you for the chocolate, Folken," Adrina said.
"You're welcome," Folken told her, but avoided her gaze. The same emotionless look had returned and Adrina began to wonder if she had only imagined the intense passion and longing she had seen not a moment ago.
They went to the few remaining booths into he marketplace, but nothing appealed to Adrina. She was still shaken by her experience with Folken. After they had visited the last booth the two of them turned and headed back to where they had entered the marketplace, the soldiers following slowly behind.
They were just leaving the marketplace when a citizen ran up to the two of them and screamed, "Die Zaibach scum!" Folken and Adrina turned to the young man in surprise. Adrina gasped when she saw the afternoon sunlight glinting off the blade of a sword. Adrina could see the bloodlust on the man's face and realized he was going straight for Folken. The two soldiers were too far behind to be on any assistance. Before Folken could react, Adrina had grabbed his sword and pulled it out of it's sheath. She barely had time to turn around before the man was upon them. He swung his sword at Folken, but never connected as the sound of steel hitting steel rang loudly through the crowded streets. Adrina had quickly and gracefully stepped in front of Folken and had deflected the man's sword with Folken's. They stood like that for a couple of seconds trying to overpower one another before Adrina pulled back Folken's sword and swung it at the attacker's. The sword spun from his hand and skittered across the dirt. Before he had even realized what she'd done, Adrina had kicked his legs out from under him. A second after he hit the ground, the point of Folken's sword was pressed against the attackers throat, defeating all hopes of escape he might have had.
Folken watched in shocked admiration as Adrina dispatched the attacker quickly and efficiently. He recognized her movements as the ones Balgus taught but she moved with such stealth and grace that she made the moves all her own. She is an amazing woman, Folken thought as she leaned closer to the man on the ground while still keeping the sword pressed to his throat.
"Now," Adrina growled, though Folken thought it sounded more like a purr, "Who sent you to kill him?" She nodded her head at Folken without taking her eyes off of her captive or letting up the pressure on the sword. Folken marveled at the way her face had changed from happiness to calm dominance and subdued rage. The look of a warrior, Folken thought.
"No one!" the man cried, "no one sent me. No one had to send me. I came to kill that Zaibach bastard on my own!"
For the comment about Folken, the man received a sharp kick to his leg from Adrina. He grimaced but didn't cry out.
"I would advise you to refrain from calling Folken names," Adrina told him, then as an afterthought, added, "Unless of course you feel like dying today. If that's the case, feel free to say anything you'd like but I can imagine that the feel of a sword blade slowly piercing your neck is not a pleasant one." The man's eyes widened at her ruthless comments, "Now that we have that cleared up, maybe you'd like to tell us why you tried to assassinate Folken."
As she had been threatening the man, the two Zaibach soldiers had joined them, along with a rapidly growing crowd. The soldiers had started to step forward and take over but Folken had stopped them. He knew that Adrina had it under control and didn't need their help.
"He destroyed Fanelia!" the man shouted.
"And that is of consequence to you how?" Adrina inquired. She knew everyone who had lived in Fanelia and she had never seen this man before.
"My sister and her family lived there," the man told her, "He destroyed everything they owned!"
"And that justifies cold blooded murder?" Adrina questioned, her calm demeanor remaining, "Their possessions may have been destroyed, but I know for a fact there were no fatalities among the women and children of Fanelia, including your sister."
"How do you know that?" the man asked.
"Because Fanelia is my homeland," Adrina divulged, "and I was there when Zaibach attacked. All the women and children escaped before the actual fighting even began."
"You're from Fanelia?" the man questioned with surprise but the surprise quickly turned back to rage, "then you have betrayed your country by defending this Zaibach filth! You have betrayed your homeland, it's people, your King..." The man was silenced by another kick to his legs.
"I warned you once about the name calling," Adrina reminded, "Next time it will be the sword."
The look on the man's face told he believed her. Folken now walked up next to Adrina and was surprised to see that her eyes had changed since she had taken his sword to defend him. Eyes that were usually a light lavender-blue were now deep midnight purple. The transformation from carefree captive to fierce warrior was so complete; Folken would almost swear they were two different people.
"Next time you get it in your head to do something as foolish as trying to kill a Zaibach soldier," Adrina began, "I suggest you practice with the sword more and make sure he's alone." Adrina pulled the sword back a bit and turned to the two Zaibach soldiers. "I'm done with him. Take him to the authorities and tell them he attacked someone. A few days in prison ought to calm him down.
The two soldiers stared in awe at Adrina, then over at Folken.
She can give orders too, Folken thought then said to the soldiers, "Do as she said!"
The soldiers hurried forward and picked the man up off the ground. The each held an arm and began to drag him towards the local authority building. Seeing the action was over, the crowd dissipated quickly. Adrina turned and watched the soldiers dragging the man, Folken's sword still clutched in her hand and her eyes still dark. She turned her attention away from the soldiers as Folken walked up next to her. He gently pulled the sword out of her hand and returned it to it's sheath. As he did this, her eyes faded back to pale lavender and her face lost the calm look it held and replaced it with the one he was used to seeing.
"That was most impressive," Folken praised.
A light blush spread over Adrina's cheeks. "Thanks."
"That swordplay," Folken continued, "those moves were from Balgus' teaching, were they not?"
Before Adrina could answer, the carriage pulled up. Folken opened the door for Adrina and then climbed in himself. Once they were moving, Adrina turned to Folken.
"In answer to your question, yes those moves are Balgus'," Adrina told him.
"The grace and agility with which you execute them makes them all yours," Folken complimented. The blush that had occupied her cheeks a few minutes ago came flooding back. He smiled slightly and continued, "May I ask how you learned them?"
"Balgus taught me," Adrina informed. Folken said nothing, but the look in his eyes urged her to continue, which she did, "After my parents died, I needed something to take my mind off of things," Adrina watched Folken's face, looking for a reaction to her comment about her parents' deaths. She saw none. What she didn't know was that Folken had kept up on the news of Fanelia through the years, learning of his mother's disappearance and eventually Adrina's parents' death in this way.
"I was seventeen at the time," Adrina continued, "Van had just turned fourteen and Balgus insisted that he begin training for the right of succession. Van hated the lessons and did everything to get out of them. I, on the other hand, was fascinated by the techniques that Balgus used. At a lesson, I picked up a sword and I knew I had to learn all I could about how to use it. I begged Balgus and eventually he agreed to teach me too. Now every time I pick up a sword, a change comes over me. I don't know how to explain it." She laughed, "Van and Merle called it my 'warrior mode'."
"You don't have to explain it," Folken assured, "I saw it. You were in complete control with the sword in your hand." Folken paused and looked over at her, "Would you really have killed him?"
"For calling you names?" Adrina chuckled, "Probably not. But..." Folken watched as her eyes darkened to the same deep purple as before, "If he had hurt you, he would have been dead before he had time to acknowledge his accomplishment."
Folken stared wonderingly down at Adrina. Her face had once again contorted into the mask of a warrior and he cold see that she meant it when she said she would've killed the attacker if he had hurt Folken. Even as he watched, her eyes faded back to normal and she smiled slightly.
"But he didn't hurt you so there's really no reason to dwell on it."
"He didn't hurt me because you didn't allow him to," Folken told her and grabbed her right hand with his left, "You saved my life and for that I am truly grateful."
Adrina's entire face turned red as Folken pressed a lingering kiss to the back of her hand. She could feel the warmth on her face but it was nothing compared to the fire she felt when Folken's lips touched her. The fire spread throughout her entire body and she felt like she was being burned alive from the inside. Just when she thought she could take it no more, Folken pulled his lips away from her hand and the fire subsided, the only remnant was the tingling sensation on the back of her hand where his lips had been. Adrina looked up at Folken and hoped he couldn't see how ragged her breath was or feel her pounding heartbeat in her hand that he still held in his own.
"With those sword skills you could've escaped long ago," Folken commented as the carriage began to rise towards the floating fortress on top of the loading platform, "why haven't you?"
"I couldn't let Van..."
"You and I both know that Van will not be captured," Folken stopped her, "He would die before he let himself be taken prisoner, so what is it Adrina? What is the real reason you don't escape?"
"I...I want to stay," Adrina admitted, "Stay on the floating fortress. With you."
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Folken stood in the communications room, listening to Dornkirk rattle on about his destiny prognostication engine. Folken was barely listening. He was trying to figure out how to bring up the attack in Godashim. He wanted to discuss something with Dornkirk and ask him a favor. Luckily for Folken, after his rant about his machine, Dornkirk mention the assassin.
"I have been told that an attempt was made on you life in Godashim today," Dornkirk began.
News travels fast, Folken thought. "Yes, Lord that is correct."
"And I trust your soldier escort dispatched the problem?" Dornkirk inquired.
This was the opportunity Folken had been waiting for and he took it. "No Lord, the soldiers were lagging behind and it was actually the prisoner Adrina who dealt with the assassin."
"The prisoner?" Dornkirk exclaimed in surprise.
Folken nodded, "Before I could react, she took my sword and dispatched the attacker quickly."
"Is that admiration I hear in your voice Folken?" Dornkirk asked.
Folken was silent for a moment. "She saved my life, does she not deserve my respect?'
"She does indeed," Dornkirk agreed, "but I sense there is something you're not telling me."
"I want to ask a favor of you, Lord," Folken confessed.
"Proceed."
"I want Adrina to become a noble of the Zaibach Empire," Folken informed, "And I want her assigned to me as my personal body guard."
"You want me to make the prisoner a Lady of Zaibach?" Dornkirk questioned. Folken nodded. "Folken, she is not loyal to Zaibach. She is a prisoner. She would most certainly abuse her power and escape at the earliest possible opportunity."
"No," Folken disagreed, "she is loyal to me. If she thinks she is solely responsible for my safety, she will not escape."
Dornkirk sighed, "Are you absolutely sure about this?"
"Yes Lord," Folken assured.
"The penalty for betraying Zaibach is death," Dornkirk reminded, "you know this right?"
"Yes."
"All right," Dornkirk agreed, "the forces are being launched against Freid tomorrow before dawn. Bring the girl to me as soon as she has awakened and I will name her as a Lady of Zaibach."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Folken said. The communication orb turned dark and Folken hurried from the room. He needed to speak to Adrina, but first he must get things ready.
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Adrina sat in her room contemplating her actions from earlier. When that man had charged Folken, Adrina had reacted on instinct. All she could think was Protect Folken! You can't lose him again! After she had taken care of the threat and had gotten back to her room, she had been able to ponder everything. She realized how close she came to losing Folken again and she had almost burst into tears.
Now, two hours later, she lay sprawled on her bed trying to sort out her feelings. The events of the day made her realize that she did have feelings for Folken and that she had practically come out and told him as much when she told him her reason for staying on the floating fortress.
A sudden knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. Adrina sat up quickly.
"Come in," she called. The door opened and Folken entered, carrying a pair of jet-black boots and some folded clothes in black as well.
"I need to discuss something with you," Folken told her and sat the boots and clothes on a chair.
"What is it?" Adrina questioned, obviously concerned, "Is something wrong?"
"No," Folken assured, "but I would like to make a proposition to you." Adrina urged him to continue. "Today I realized that you would make a valuable addition to the Zaibach Empire."
"What are you saying?" Adrina asked slowly.
"I discussed it with Emperor Dornkirk and he has already agreed," Folken continued, "and now the decision is up to you. I want you to join me as a Lady of Zaibach and my personal bodyguard."
"Are you serious?" Adrina questioned, "Folken, I don't know..."
"I understand if you do not want to accept my offer," Folken stated, "but please think about it. I would enjoy nothing more than having you by my side at all times as my personal warrior."
Think about it! Adrina told herself, you'll be with him all the time, you won't be a prisoner anymore and you'll be able to protect him. This is exactly what you want!
"Folken," Adrina started, "I wasn't trained as a bodyguard, but I know I can protect you. I accept your offer."
Folken nodded, "You do realize that you will be a Lady of the Zaibach Empire? You will have to remain loyal to Zaibach at all times."
I will remain loyal to you, Adrina thought, Zaibach can go to Hell. "Yes Folken, I understand."
"Good," Folken smiled slightly, "I will come in the morning to take you to the communication chamber. Emperor Dornkirk will accept you into the Zaibach Empire." He motioned to the clothes he had brought with him, "That is your uniform. You will wear it from now on." Adrina nodded and Folken moved to the door. "I will see you in the morning. Good night Adrina."
"Good night Folken."
