"Are we almost there?"
Adrina looked across the carriage to her sister, murderous intent glistening in her eyes. "We will be there within the hour and if you ask again I am going to strangle you until you are dead."
Next to her on the seat, Folken chuckled. Adrina shot him a look but he ignored it. "We should be able to see the ocean soon. Then you will know we are close."
It had been six days since Folken and Adrina had returned from Zaibach. Three days after their return they had left for Asturia. Merle and Zane had found about Folken and Adrina's travel plans and had insisted they be allowed to accompany them to Asturia. And here they were, less then an hour away form their destination, sitting comfortably in the Royal Coach while half the Fanelian Army marched around them.
Merle reached over and opened the carriage window, letting in a cool breeze that was heavily scented with salt. "The sea!" the cat girl exclaimed excitedly, "I can smell it! We're almost there!"
"Folken said when you can see it we're almost there," Adrina reminded, "the scent probably carries for miles."
Merle peered out the window. "All I can see is trees."
"That's because the ocean will be in front of us until we turn onto the road that leads to Palas," Folken informed.
"Well, I'm not waiting that long." Merle threw open the carriage door and scurried onto the roof. The door shut once she out of sight.
"Merle!" Adrina called, "Get back in here!"
"I see it!" Merle cried, "I can see the ocean! Come on Zane! It's beautiful!"
Zane, who had never seen the ocean, opened the carriage door quickly and scrambled up onto the roof with Merle. The door swung shut behind him.
"I don't think she quite grasps the 'lady' thing," Adrina laughed.
"Adrina!" Merle shouted, "You've got to see this! The sea is even more beautiful than I remember!"
Without thinking, Adrina jumped up and reached for the door. She froze when she realized what she was doing and sat back down, a slight blush coloring her cheeks.
"What's wrong?" Folken questioned.
"Nothing," Adrina assured.
"Then why did you stop?"
Adrina shrugged. "I'm not a child anymore. If the soldiers were to see their Queen climbing onto the carriage like a peasant, what would they think?"
"Imagine what they'll think when they see both of us doing it," Folken smiled.
Adrina's eyes lit up as he grabbed her hand and pushed open the door. He held it open while Adrina hoisted herself onto the roof, then climbed up after her. They sat down next to Merle and Zane. The carriage driver, hearing the commotion, turned around and his eyes widened.
"Don't worry," Folken comforted, "We're just enjoying the view. Keep driving."
"Y...yes my Lord."
Adrina giggled and looked ahead. Several hundred soldiers marched ahead of the carriage. Past them stretched a dirt path that continued on for a few miles then dropped out of view. Where the road disappeared the ocean began. In the midday sun the water sparkled like diamonds scattered across a giant blue cloth. Adrina breathed in the sea air and felt a hand close over hers. She looked up and saw Folken smiling down at her. She smiled back and leaned against him as they stared at the breathtaking scene before them.
"So Zane," Adrina asked, "what do you think?"
"It's amazing," Zane breathed.
The entourage continued down the road until they reached a fork. They took the left fork and continued on parallel to the ocean towards the capital city of Palas.
They reached the outskirts of the city five minutes later. They rolled past the windmill where Adrina, Van and Merle had stayed during the war. They continued on down the dusty path towards the castle. They entered the populated area of the city and people lined the streets to watch as they passed. Some obviously recognized Adrina and Merle, but they weren't sure if they should call out to them.
The carriage finally came to a stop outside the palace. They were delighted to see Van and Hitomi rush out to greet them. Hitomi held Golan in her arms as they stopped next to the carriage.
"It's good to see all of you," Van called up to them, "is there something wrong with the inside of the carriage?
"Of course not," Folken laughed and jumped down from the carriage, "we were just enjoying to view." Folken hugged his brother. "It is good to see you." He turned back to the carriage and lifted Adrina down.
"Van!" Adrina exclaimed and hugged him, then hugged Hitomi as well. She looked down at the baby in her arms. "He's getting so big! I swear he's twice the size he was when you left Fanelia."
"The sea air has been good for him," Hitomi agreed.
"Let me see!"
Adrina and Hitomi looked over and saw Merle standing next to them. She held her arms out expectantly. "I wanna hold Golan."
Hitomi smiled and handed Golan to the cat girl. She took the baby and nuzzled him, cooing incoherently, which caused Golan to smile and giggle.
"Let's go into the castle," Van suggested, "Allen and Millerna are anxious to see you."
They agreed and the six of them entered the palace. Van led the way and they walked down a series of corridors. Adrina smiled as she remembered different things about the castle. They passed a large window and she remembered spying on Allen and Hitomi with Merle. They turned down another corridor and stopped outside a huge door flanked by two guards.
"Can you let the King and Queen know that King Folken and Queen Adrina of Fanelia have arrived?" Van asked.
The guard on the left nodded and disappeared into the chamber beyond. He returned a moment later and held the door open as they entered. They walked down the plush carpet to the thrones at he end of it. Adrina, Folken, Merle and Zane bowed slightly.
"King Allen, Queen Millerna, it is good to be back in Asturia," Folken greeted.
"And it is good to have you," Millerna smiled, "we've missed all of you." Her eyes fixed on Zane. "I don't think we've met your friend."
"This is Zane," Adrina introduced, "he came to Fanelia to help with the repairs and decided to stay."
"Ah yes," Millerna commented, "Van and Hitomi told me about you, Zane. They say that you and Merle have become quite close."
Zane blushed. "Yes, Your Majesty. Merle and I are very close."
Queen Millerna smiled warmly. "I'm sure you are all famished from your journey. Let us go to the dining hall and have some lunch."
The others agreed and followed Allen and Millerna into the dining hall. There, they were joined by Allen's sister Celena. When Adrina had first learned about Celena, she had been uneasy about her, but once she got to know her, she became friends with her. They all took seats around the large, wooden table and chatted as the servants set out their food.
"We received word that you had been captured by Zaibach," Allen spoke as they ate, "we were prepared to send the army to aid in your rescue effort when we heard that had returned safely to Fanelia."
"Yes," Folken smiled warmly at his wife, "Adrina saw to that."
"Adrina?" Millerna, Allen, Van and Hitomi exclaimed in unison.
Folken nodded. "She came to Zaibach alone and rescued me."
"There must be a very interesting story behind this," Millerna suggested, "But perhaps it could wait until after lunch. I have planned a meeting to discuss the threat of Zaibach and what our course of action shall be. I believe you would like to be settled into your rooms before we begin strategizing."
"You're right," Adrina agreed, "we've been on the road for three days and it will feel wonderful to sleep in a soft bed again."
"Of course," Millerna smiled, "as soon as lunch is finished you will be shown to your rooms."
The rest of the meal was spent catching up on the recent events of Asturia and Fanelia. After the meal had been finished, servants led the Fanelians to their rooms. Merle and Zane's rooms were just down the hall from the room Folken and Adrina were staying in. When they entered the room, they saw that their luggage had already been brought in. Adrina sat down on the bed while Folken began to pace the floor.
"Something wrong?" Adrina asked.
"I'm just unnerved about Zaibach," Folken answered, "something is going to happen and I want to know what it is beforehand. Zeus, whatever it does, is the key to everything and the sooner I know what it's purpose is, the better I'll feel."
"Aren't there people checking the library right now for information on Zeus?" Adrina reminded.
"Yes," Folken admitted, "but I feel as if time is running short."
"Well, if it will make you feel better, we can go to the library and see how things are going," Adrina suggested.
'That's a good idea," Folken agreed.
He took Adrina's hand and the two of them exited their room. They went down the proper corridors and emerged from the castle into the brightly lit Asturian afternoon.
"If I remember correctly," Folken started, "the library is that way." He pointed in the opposite direction of the one they had arrived from earlier. The two walked hand in hand down the streets of Palas, heading towards the library. They reached it about ten minutes later. The library was a huge stone building near the Palas bizarre. A portion of the roof was made from darker stone, proof of the attack by Naria and Eriya two years earlier.
Folken and Adrina walked up the stone steps and entered the reference building. The library consisted of one giant room lined with wall-to-wall books. There were also freestanding bookshelves in middle of the room. Adrina gaped at the massive collection and continued to stare even after an attendant approached them.
"Lord Folken," the man greeted, "it is good to see you."
"Arian, I'm glad you're still working here," Folken said, "I know that my request will be treated with the utmost respect."
"We have some material for you now," Arian informed, "and we are still searching." He motioned to the men and women throughout the library who were scanning the shelves, some on large ladders so they could reach the top shelves.
"That is excellent," Folken praised, "if it's not too much trouble, I'd like to see what you've got so far."
"Of course," Arian agreed. He led the two of them past the massive bookshelves and to the back of the room. Set up against the back wall were several tables, most of which were laden with books and papers. Several were occupied. Arian led them down the row of tables and stopped at the last one. It was much neater than the other tables. There was a stack of small books and loose papers sitting next to a big, thick book.
"This is the information we've been able to gather so far," Arian stated, "the stack of stuff are books and articles that mention 'Zeus' in one way or another. The big book contains detailed information on a machine called the Zeus."
"Thank you, Arian," Folken said. The other man bowed slightly and left them standing by the table. "Might as well get started," Folken concluded and they sat down. Adrina volunteered to go through the stack so Folken could get right to what was probably valuable information in the book.
While Folken skimmed the pages of the book, Adrina read through the information in the stack. Most of it was just brief mention of the Zeus machine or even other things called Zeus. She did learn that the schematics for the Zeus machine were drawn up by the Draconians when Atlantis still existed. Somehow the blueprints had found their way to Gaea and many people had tried to build the machine the Atlantians had designed. All had failed until now.
"Here it is!" Folken announced suddenly, startling Adrina out of her reading.
"What does it say?" Adrina questioned eagerly.
"'The Zeus machine was designed by the Atlantians,'" Folken read, "We already know that." He skimmed down the words, "'The Zeus was never built by the Atlantians because of the issue of how it was powered. In order to operate the Zeus, Draconian blood must be used.'" Folken paused and looked over at Adrina, who urged him to continue. "'The more Draconian blood the Zeus is fed, the more powerful it becomes. If given enough blood the Zeus could destroy an entire planet.'"
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"We can only assume that the sorcerers are going to use the Zeus to threaten the rulers of Gaea into surrendering their countries to the Zaibach Empire," Folken concluded.
Folken, Adrina, Millerna, Allen and Van were sitting around a table in the conference room of the palace. After Folken had read the passage about Zeus, he had taken the book and suggested a meeting with the King and Queen of Asturia. They had complied and Van insisted he be included as well. Hitomi, Golan, Merle, Zane, Celena and Princess Aries had gone to the bizarre to show Zane around.
"That is a devious plan, even for the sorcerers of Zaibach," Millerna commented, her brow furrowed in concern. She propped her elbows on the table and rested her chin on her folded hands.
"The situation isn't as grave as it seems," Allen spoke, "the sorcerers need Draconian blood to power the Zeus, correct?" Folken nodded. "All we have to do is notify all the Draconians and warn them of Zaibach's intentions."
"Easier said than done," Adrina said, "Draconians are considered demons by many. They aren't openly known to those around them."
"Then we will simply send out word of the sorcerers plans and invite the Draconians to stay here until we can dispose of the sorcerers."
"Didn't you listen to what Adrina just said?" Van questioned, "Draconians are demons! If you invite them to the castle, they will see it as a trap. They won't come."
"How will the sorcerers know who is a Draconian and whose not?" Millerna interjected, "Of course they know Folken is. It's common knowledge that King Goau married a Draconian, but how will they find the unknown Draconians?"
"The sorcerers will find a way," Folken told them, "they will find the Draconians and take them back to Zaibach to power their machine. The only chance we have is to discover the Draconians first and warn them ourselves, one by one."
"Isn't that a little drastic?" Millerna inquired.
"It's our only choice," Folken stated.
"And how do you propose we find the Draconians?" Allen asked, irritation evident in his voice, "we just discussed that the Draconians are practically in hiding."
"The Atlantians valued information above all else," Folken informed, "there is a legend that states the Draconians had a special complex to house their records of various things, including a family tree that updates itself every time a Draconian is born or dies. If we find the Records House, we can utilize the family tree and find all the living Draconians."
"Even if this legend is time," Allen commented negatively, "how are we supposed to find it?"
Folken pointed to the large book on the table. "This book tells of all the Draconian legends and tells where the Records House can be found."
"It's settled then," Millerna declared, "I will have the preparations started immediately. We will leave before the week is out."
The meeting adjourned and the five people went their separate ways. Adrina walked back to their room with Folken, who carried the heavy book. Once inside the room, Folken sat down at the desk and began flipping through the book.
"I'm going to go and see if Hitomi, Merle and everybody are back yet," Adrina told him.
"Alright," Folken agreed, "I'd come with you, but I want to see if there is anything else useful in here."
"I understand," Adrina smiled, "I'll see you at dinner." She kissed Folken's cheek and left the room. She was heading outside when she ran into Van.
"What are you up to?" she asked as they continued out of the castle.
"I was just going to check and see if Hitomi was back yet," Van informed.
"That's what I was doing," Adrina told him. They exited the castle and started across the courtyard. "Are you going to come with us Van?"
"Us?" Van raised an eyebrow. "Folken is letting you go?"
"Folken doesn't have to let me go," Adrina insisted, "I make my own decisions."
"The journey could be dangerous," Van said, "You know Folken will be wary of letting you come if there is a chance you could be hurt."
"There won't be any danger," Adrina assured, "all we have to do is find the Records House and get the names of the living Draconians. It'll be simple."
"I've learned that nothing is simple when Zaibach is involved," Van told her, "but I hope you're right."
"So are you coming with us or not?" Adrina prodded with a smile.
"Have I ever said no to an adventure?" Van inquired.
Adrina laughed. "I'm glad. It wouldn't be right without you there."
They stopped walking as they saw the group from the bizarre enter the courtyard. Merle and Zane spotted them and ran over quickly, their eyes big and their lips curved into smiles.
"Look what Zane bought me!" Merle exclaimed and held up her left hand. A beautiful gold charm bracelet dangled from her wrist.
"It's beautiful," Adrina told her.
"And we got this for you." Zane held up a neatly wrapped package closed with a bow.
"What is it?" Adrina asked.
"Open it," Merle instructed.
Adrina untied the ribbon and looked into the package. She gasped in delight when she saw the candies. "Asturian chocolate! There's so much of it. This must've cost you a fortune."
"Nah," Zane replied, "we got a discount because we were with Princess Aries."
The others had now joined them. "How did the meeting with Allen and Millerna go?" Hitomi asked. From her arms, Golan yawned.
"Yes," Van answered, "Folken told us about the Zeus. It needs Draconian blood to power it."
Hitomi's eyes went wide, as did Aries and Celena's. "Dranconian blood?" Hitomi repeated, "Is that why they captured Folken?"
"We assume so," Van nodded, "and that's why they asked for me in return. Folken said that the only way to stop the sorcerers is to warn the Draconians of their plans."
"How are you going to do that?" Aries asked, "Won't it be difficult to find the Draconians?"
"My brother has discovered a Records House that the Atlantians created," Van informed, "the building is a storehouse for Draconian records and contains a family tree that updates itself every time a Draconian is born or dies."
"Where is the Records House located?" Celena asked.
"I don't know the exact location, but Folken has a book that tells the location. Queen Millerna has already begun making the preparations for our departure."
"Departure?" Hitomi questioned, "You're leaving?"
"Yes," Van answered.
"But Van..." Hitomi started.
"We can talk about it later Hitomi," Van interrupted.
Hitomi started to speak again, then shut her mouth and nodded. "I think it's about time for Golan's nap."
"I'll come with you," Van said and the two of them departed into the castle.
"If you'll excuse me," Aries began, "I have some things that need to be done before dinner." She headed into the castle.
"As do I." Celena bowed in front of Adrina and hurried after the Princess.
"So, when are we leaving?" Merle asked after Celena had gone.
"We?" Adrina asked much in the same way Van had earlier.
"Yeah," Merle confirmed, "You didn't think you were gonna leave us behind you?"
"I hadn't really thought about it," Adrina admitted, "but now that you mention it, no you're not going."
"Why not?" Merle demanded.
"You nearly drove me insane on the way here to Asturia and that was only a three day trip!" Adrina stated, "There is no way I can listen to you all the way to the Records House."
"That's really mean Adrina," Merle pouted, "We're family. You're supposed to love me unconditionally."
"I do love you Merle," Adrina insisted, "but you drive me crazy sometimes."
"Please Adrina!" Merle begged, "Please let us come with you!"
"It's not my decision," Adrina told her, "It's up to Millerna and Allen to decide who gets to go."
"Will you talk to them for us?" Merle asked.
"No." Adrina turned and headed back towards the castle.
"Please!" Merle cried and the two cats followed her.
"No." Adrina kept walking.
"Please!" This time it was both of them.
"No."
"Please!" Both cats begged, "Please please please please please please please please please please please..."
"All right!" Adrina shouted, "I'll talk to them! But that doesn't mean they'll say yes."
"Thank you!" Merle and Zane hugged her then entered the palace. Adrina sighed in defeat and followed after them.
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Sorry it took so long to update this. I was busy typing another story and I've been lazy lately.
To Gwuinivyre: I haven't seen the Escaflowne movie. I wanted to until I saw how they changed the animation. I didn't like the new character designs (especially Folken) and so I never saw it. If somebody offered it to me maybe I'd watch it. I heard it was good. Thanks again for reviewing and I hope you like this chapter!!!! ^.^
Adrina looked across the carriage to her sister, murderous intent glistening in her eyes. "We will be there within the hour and if you ask again I am going to strangle you until you are dead."
Next to her on the seat, Folken chuckled. Adrina shot him a look but he ignored it. "We should be able to see the ocean soon. Then you will know we are close."
It had been six days since Folken and Adrina had returned from Zaibach. Three days after their return they had left for Asturia. Merle and Zane had found about Folken and Adrina's travel plans and had insisted they be allowed to accompany them to Asturia. And here they were, less then an hour away form their destination, sitting comfortably in the Royal Coach while half the Fanelian Army marched around them.
Merle reached over and opened the carriage window, letting in a cool breeze that was heavily scented with salt. "The sea!" the cat girl exclaimed excitedly, "I can smell it! We're almost there!"
"Folken said when you can see it we're almost there," Adrina reminded, "the scent probably carries for miles."
Merle peered out the window. "All I can see is trees."
"That's because the ocean will be in front of us until we turn onto the road that leads to Palas," Folken informed.
"Well, I'm not waiting that long." Merle threw open the carriage door and scurried onto the roof. The door shut once she out of sight.
"Merle!" Adrina called, "Get back in here!"
"I see it!" Merle cried, "I can see the ocean! Come on Zane! It's beautiful!"
Zane, who had never seen the ocean, opened the carriage door quickly and scrambled up onto the roof with Merle. The door swung shut behind him.
"I don't think she quite grasps the 'lady' thing," Adrina laughed.
"Adrina!" Merle shouted, "You've got to see this! The sea is even more beautiful than I remember!"
Without thinking, Adrina jumped up and reached for the door. She froze when she realized what she was doing and sat back down, a slight blush coloring her cheeks.
"What's wrong?" Folken questioned.
"Nothing," Adrina assured.
"Then why did you stop?"
Adrina shrugged. "I'm not a child anymore. If the soldiers were to see their Queen climbing onto the carriage like a peasant, what would they think?"
"Imagine what they'll think when they see both of us doing it," Folken smiled.
Adrina's eyes lit up as he grabbed her hand and pushed open the door. He held it open while Adrina hoisted herself onto the roof, then climbed up after her. They sat down next to Merle and Zane. The carriage driver, hearing the commotion, turned around and his eyes widened.
"Don't worry," Folken comforted, "We're just enjoying the view. Keep driving."
"Y...yes my Lord."
Adrina giggled and looked ahead. Several hundred soldiers marched ahead of the carriage. Past them stretched a dirt path that continued on for a few miles then dropped out of view. Where the road disappeared the ocean began. In the midday sun the water sparkled like diamonds scattered across a giant blue cloth. Adrina breathed in the sea air and felt a hand close over hers. She looked up and saw Folken smiling down at her. She smiled back and leaned against him as they stared at the breathtaking scene before them.
"So Zane," Adrina asked, "what do you think?"
"It's amazing," Zane breathed.
The entourage continued down the road until they reached a fork. They took the left fork and continued on parallel to the ocean towards the capital city of Palas.
They reached the outskirts of the city five minutes later. They rolled past the windmill where Adrina, Van and Merle had stayed during the war. They continued on down the dusty path towards the castle. They entered the populated area of the city and people lined the streets to watch as they passed. Some obviously recognized Adrina and Merle, but they weren't sure if they should call out to them.
The carriage finally came to a stop outside the palace. They were delighted to see Van and Hitomi rush out to greet them. Hitomi held Golan in her arms as they stopped next to the carriage.
"It's good to see all of you," Van called up to them, "is there something wrong with the inside of the carriage?
"Of course not," Folken laughed and jumped down from the carriage, "we were just enjoying to view." Folken hugged his brother. "It is good to see you." He turned back to the carriage and lifted Adrina down.
"Van!" Adrina exclaimed and hugged him, then hugged Hitomi as well. She looked down at the baby in her arms. "He's getting so big! I swear he's twice the size he was when you left Fanelia."
"The sea air has been good for him," Hitomi agreed.
"Let me see!"
Adrina and Hitomi looked over and saw Merle standing next to them. She held her arms out expectantly. "I wanna hold Golan."
Hitomi smiled and handed Golan to the cat girl. She took the baby and nuzzled him, cooing incoherently, which caused Golan to smile and giggle.
"Let's go into the castle," Van suggested, "Allen and Millerna are anxious to see you."
They agreed and the six of them entered the palace. Van led the way and they walked down a series of corridors. Adrina smiled as she remembered different things about the castle. They passed a large window and she remembered spying on Allen and Hitomi with Merle. They turned down another corridor and stopped outside a huge door flanked by two guards.
"Can you let the King and Queen know that King Folken and Queen Adrina of Fanelia have arrived?" Van asked.
The guard on the left nodded and disappeared into the chamber beyond. He returned a moment later and held the door open as they entered. They walked down the plush carpet to the thrones at he end of it. Adrina, Folken, Merle and Zane bowed slightly.
"King Allen, Queen Millerna, it is good to be back in Asturia," Folken greeted.
"And it is good to have you," Millerna smiled, "we've missed all of you." Her eyes fixed on Zane. "I don't think we've met your friend."
"This is Zane," Adrina introduced, "he came to Fanelia to help with the repairs and decided to stay."
"Ah yes," Millerna commented, "Van and Hitomi told me about you, Zane. They say that you and Merle have become quite close."
Zane blushed. "Yes, Your Majesty. Merle and I are very close."
Queen Millerna smiled warmly. "I'm sure you are all famished from your journey. Let us go to the dining hall and have some lunch."
The others agreed and followed Allen and Millerna into the dining hall. There, they were joined by Allen's sister Celena. When Adrina had first learned about Celena, she had been uneasy about her, but once she got to know her, she became friends with her. They all took seats around the large, wooden table and chatted as the servants set out their food.
"We received word that you had been captured by Zaibach," Allen spoke as they ate, "we were prepared to send the army to aid in your rescue effort when we heard that had returned safely to Fanelia."
"Yes," Folken smiled warmly at his wife, "Adrina saw to that."
"Adrina?" Millerna, Allen, Van and Hitomi exclaimed in unison.
Folken nodded. "She came to Zaibach alone and rescued me."
"There must be a very interesting story behind this," Millerna suggested, "But perhaps it could wait until after lunch. I have planned a meeting to discuss the threat of Zaibach and what our course of action shall be. I believe you would like to be settled into your rooms before we begin strategizing."
"You're right," Adrina agreed, "we've been on the road for three days and it will feel wonderful to sleep in a soft bed again."
"Of course," Millerna smiled, "as soon as lunch is finished you will be shown to your rooms."
The rest of the meal was spent catching up on the recent events of Asturia and Fanelia. After the meal had been finished, servants led the Fanelians to their rooms. Merle and Zane's rooms were just down the hall from the room Folken and Adrina were staying in. When they entered the room, they saw that their luggage had already been brought in. Adrina sat down on the bed while Folken began to pace the floor.
"Something wrong?" Adrina asked.
"I'm just unnerved about Zaibach," Folken answered, "something is going to happen and I want to know what it is beforehand. Zeus, whatever it does, is the key to everything and the sooner I know what it's purpose is, the better I'll feel."
"Aren't there people checking the library right now for information on Zeus?" Adrina reminded.
"Yes," Folken admitted, "but I feel as if time is running short."
"Well, if it will make you feel better, we can go to the library and see how things are going," Adrina suggested.
'That's a good idea," Folken agreed.
He took Adrina's hand and the two of them exited their room. They went down the proper corridors and emerged from the castle into the brightly lit Asturian afternoon.
"If I remember correctly," Folken started, "the library is that way." He pointed in the opposite direction of the one they had arrived from earlier. The two walked hand in hand down the streets of Palas, heading towards the library. They reached it about ten minutes later. The library was a huge stone building near the Palas bizarre. A portion of the roof was made from darker stone, proof of the attack by Naria and Eriya two years earlier.
Folken and Adrina walked up the stone steps and entered the reference building. The library consisted of one giant room lined with wall-to-wall books. There were also freestanding bookshelves in middle of the room. Adrina gaped at the massive collection and continued to stare even after an attendant approached them.
"Lord Folken," the man greeted, "it is good to see you."
"Arian, I'm glad you're still working here," Folken said, "I know that my request will be treated with the utmost respect."
"We have some material for you now," Arian informed, "and we are still searching." He motioned to the men and women throughout the library who were scanning the shelves, some on large ladders so they could reach the top shelves.
"That is excellent," Folken praised, "if it's not too much trouble, I'd like to see what you've got so far."
"Of course," Arian agreed. He led the two of them past the massive bookshelves and to the back of the room. Set up against the back wall were several tables, most of which were laden with books and papers. Several were occupied. Arian led them down the row of tables and stopped at the last one. It was much neater than the other tables. There was a stack of small books and loose papers sitting next to a big, thick book.
"This is the information we've been able to gather so far," Arian stated, "the stack of stuff are books and articles that mention 'Zeus' in one way or another. The big book contains detailed information on a machine called the Zeus."
"Thank you, Arian," Folken said. The other man bowed slightly and left them standing by the table. "Might as well get started," Folken concluded and they sat down. Adrina volunteered to go through the stack so Folken could get right to what was probably valuable information in the book.
While Folken skimmed the pages of the book, Adrina read through the information in the stack. Most of it was just brief mention of the Zeus machine or even other things called Zeus. She did learn that the schematics for the Zeus machine were drawn up by the Draconians when Atlantis still existed. Somehow the blueprints had found their way to Gaea and many people had tried to build the machine the Atlantians had designed. All had failed until now.
"Here it is!" Folken announced suddenly, startling Adrina out of her reading.
"What does it say?" Adrina questioned eagerly.
"'The Zeus machine was designed by the Atlantians,'" Folken read, "We already know that." He skimmed down the words, "'The Zeus was never built by the Atlantians because of the issue of how it was powered. In order to operate the Zeus, Draconian blood must be used.'" Folken paused and looked over at Adrina, who urged him to continue. "'The more Draconian blood the Zeus is fed, the more powerful it becomes. If given enough blood the Zeus could destroy an entire planet.'"
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"We can only assume that the sorcerers are going to use the Zeus to threaten the rulers of Gaea into surrendering their countries to the Zaibach Empire," Folken concluded.
Folken, Adrina, Millerna, Allen and Van were sitting around a table in the conference room of the palace. After Folken had read the passage about Zeus, he had taken the book and suggested a meeting with the King and Queen of Asturia. They had complied and Van insisted he be included as well. Hitomi, Golan, Merle, Zane, Celena and Princess Aries had gone to the bizarre to show Zane around.
"That is a devious plan, even for the sorcerers of Zaibach," Millerna commented, her brow furrowed in concern. She propped her elbows on the table and rested her chin on her folded hands.
"The situation isn't as grave as it seems," Allen spoke, "the sorcerers need Draconian blood to power the Zeus, correct?" Folken nodded. "All we have to do is notify all the Draconians and warn them of Zaibach's intentions."
"Easier said than done," Adrina said, "Draconians are considered demons by many. They aren't openly known to those around them."
"Then we will simply send out word of the sorcerers plans and invite the Draconians to stay here until we can dispose of the sorcerers."
"Didn't you listen to what Adrina just said?" Van questioned, "Draconians are demons! If you invite them to the castle, they will see it as a trap. They won't come."
"How will the sorcerers know who is a Draconian and whose not?" Millerna interjected, "Of course they know Folken is. It's common knowledge that King Goau married a Draconian, but how will they find the unknown Draconians?"
"The sorcerers will find a way," Folken told them, "they will find the Draconians and take them back to Zaibach to power their machine. The only chance we have is to discover the Draconians first and warn them ourselves, one by one."
"Isn't that a little drastic?" Millerna inquired.
"It's our only choice," Folken stated.
"And how do you propose we find the Draconians?" Allen asked, irritation evident in his voice, "we just discussed that the Draconians are practically in hiding."
"The Atlantians valued information above all else," Folken informed, "there is a legend that states the Draconians had a special complex to house their records of various things, including a family tree that updates itself every time a Draconian is born or dies. If we find the Records House, we can utilize the family tree and find all the living Draconians."
"Even if this legend is time," Allen commented negatively, "how are we supposed to find it?"
Folken pointed to the large book on the table. "This book tells of all the Draconian legends and tells where the Records House can be found."
"It's settled then," Millerna declared, "I will have the preparations started immediately. We will leave before the week is out."
The meeting adjourned and the five people went their separate ways. Adrina walked back to their room with Folken, who carried the heavy book. Once inside the room, Folken sat down at the desk and began flipping through the book.
"I'm going to go and see if Hitomi, Merle and everybody are back yet," Adrina told him.
"Alright," Folken agreed, "I'd come with you, but I want to see if there is anything else useful in here."
"I understand," Adrina smiled, "I'll see you at dinner." She kissed Folken's cheek and left the room. She was heading outside when she ran into Van.
"What are you up to?" she asked as they continued out of the castle.
"I was just going to check and see if Hitomi was back yet," Van informed.
"That's what I was doing," Adrina told him. They exited the castle and started across the courtyard. "Are you going to come with us Van?"
"Us?" Van raised an eyebrow. "Folken is letting you go?"
"Folken doesn't have to let me go," Adrina insisted, "I make my own decisions."
"The journey could be dangerous," Van said, "You know Folken will be wary of letting you come if there is a chance you could be hurt."
"There won't be any danger," Adrina assured, "all we have to do is find the Records House and get the names of the living Draconians. It'll be simple."
"I've learned that nothing is simple when Zaibach is involved," Van told her, "but I hope you're right."
"So are you coming with us or not?" Adrina prodded with a smile.
"Have I ever said no to an adventure?" Van inquired.
Adrina laughed. "I'm glad. It wouldn't be right without you there."
They stopped walking as they saw the group from the bizarre enter the courtyard. Merle and Zane spotted them and ran over quickly, their eyes big and their lips curved into smiles.
"Look what Zane bought me!" Merle exclaimed and held up her left hand. A beautiful gold charm bracelet dangled from her wrist.
"It's beautiful," Adrina told her.
"And we got this for you." Zane held up a neatly wrapped package closed with a bow.
"What is it?" Adrina asked.
"Open it," Merle instructed.
Adrina untied the ribbon and looked into the package. She gasped in delight when she saw the candies. "Asturian chocolate! There's so much of it. This must've cost you a fortune."
"Nah," Zane replied, "we got a discount because we were with Princess Aries."
The others had now joined them. "How did the meeting with Allen and Millerna go?" Hitomi asked. From her arms, Golan yawned.
"Yes," Van answered, "Folken told us about the Zeus. It needs Draconian blood to power it."
Hitomi's eyes went wide, as did Aries and Celena's. "Dranconian blood?" Hitomi repeated, "Is that why they captured Folken?"
"We assume so," Van nodded, "and that's why they asked for me in return. Folken said that the only way to stop the sorcerers is to warn the Draconians of their plans."
"How are you going to do that?" Aries asked, "Won't it be difficult to find the Draconians?"
"My brother has discovered a Records House that the Atlantians created," Van informed, "the building is a storehouse for Draconian records and contains a family tree that updates itself every time a Draconian is born or dies."
"Where is the Records House located?" Celena asked.
"I don't know the exact location, but Folken has a book that tells the location. Queen Millerna has already begun making the preparations for our departure."
"Departure?" Hitomi questioned, "You're leaving?"
"Yes," Van answered.
"But Van..." Hitomi started.
"We can talk about it later Hitomi," Van interrupted.
Hitomi started to speak again, then shut her mouth and nodded. "I think it's about time for Golan's nap."
"I'll come with you," Van said and the two of them departed into the castle.
"If you'll excuse me," Aries began, "I have some things that need to be done before dinner." She headed into the castle.
"As do I." Celena bowed in front of Adrina and hurried after the Princess.
"So, when are we leaving?" Merle asked after Celena had gone.
"We?" Adrina asked much in the same way Van had earlier.
"Yeah," Merle confirmed, "You didn't think you were gonna leave us behind you?"
"I hadn't really thought about it," Adrina admitted, "but now that you mention it, no you're not going."
"Why not?" Merle demanded.
"You nearly drove me insane on the way here to Asturia and that was only a three day trip!" Adrina stated, "There is no way I can listen to you all the way to the Records House."
"That's really mean Adrina," Merle pouted, "We're family. You're supposed to love me unconditionally."
"I do love you Merle," Adrina insisted, "but you drive me crazy sometimes."
"Please Adrina!" Merle begged, "Please let us come with you!"
"It's not my decision," Adrina told her, "It's up to Millerna and Allen to decide who gets to go."
"Will you talk to them for us?" Merle asked.
"No." Adrina turned and headed back towards the castle.
"Please!" Merle cried and the two cats followed her.
"No." Adrina kept walking.
"Please!" This time it was both of them.
"No."
"Please!" Both cats begged, "Please please please please please please please please please please please..."
"All right!" Adrina shouted, "I'll talk to them! But that doesn't mean they'll say yes."
"Thank you!" Merle and Zane hugged her then entered the palace. Adrina sighed in defeat and followed after them.
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Sorry it took so long to update this. I was busy typing another story and I've been lazy lately.
To Gwuinivyre: I haven't seen the Escaflowne movie. I wanted to until I saw how they changed the animation. I didn't like the new character designs (especially Folken) and so I never saw it. If somebody offered it to me maybe I'd watch it. I heard it was good. Thanks again for reviewing and I hope you like this chapter!!!! ^.^