---~~~ C R Y O F O M E N S ~~~---
- Chapter Two : My Winds of Warning -


Factoids:
-- Words between ~ signify mindspeech.
-- Words in italics signify your typical 'flashback' scenario or thoughts by the indicated character.
-- Words between * are being emphasized.

Notes:

-- For those of you confused by the prologue, *laughs* - don't worry. It's not exactly meant to be understood just yet. Woots to the people who understood the computer connotations. *winks*

-- Thanks to everyone, be it in Review on FF.net or over email, for your support! Um... I got alot of really nice feedback. ^_^ Remember, please feel free to give constructive criticism. Flames will be laughed at. ^_^

-- Anyone remember Derrick? ^_^

--------------------
--------------------




Voices...?

Shana rolled her head to one side on the pillow beneath, giving a little yawn. She could hear Miranda and Meru speaking, although the manner was hushed; no doubt in consideration of their once-sleeping companion. She smiled gratefully for that thought, as recently she'd heard more than her fair share of shouting back home.

The hazel eyed girl watched briefly as dancing shadows fluttered into the guest room. Kongol was walking about the main chamber of his home, quietly setting alight the oil lamps therein. She turned her head once more under the comforting glow, bathed by the soothing darkness around her and the knowledge that her friends were so close by.

A gentle breath. How long had she been sleeping?

It didn't seem so great a while, but from the window nearest Shana could tell darkness had already fallen. Her mind felt somewhat clouded; as if it was taking longer to rouse than her body itself. Something like the edges of a dream came to mind. Warmth, a bright blue sky, a gentle touch... but none of that really mattered, just now. She really did need to rise and greet the others more properly. Upon her earlier arrival, she hadn't done much more than hugged her hello's and drifted off into the guest bedroom.

And that's really not like me...

Shana pulled herself upwards, noting a soft down blanket had been covered over her frame sometime earlier. Kongol, no doubt. Carefully folding said cloth into a neat little bundle, she placed it at the head of the cot; prompt to make sure the bed was left tidy and kept. Well then.

"So how's Haschel?" Meru was asking from the other room, and Emily replied a gentle; "Fine. With the elders. They'll call us down when they're ready."

Where was Dart?

But as Shana straightened her attire and sipped a bit of water from a nearby glass, the question answered itself. Her eyes turned once more to the single bedroom window at the sound of footsteps. The brush of cloth on sand, the light gait, that sigh...

Shana placed her hands on the sill, and peered outside.

"Dart-!"

He was walking below on the path that led to the front of the Tage' house, brushing damp strands of sandy blonde hair behind one ear. At the sound of her voice her love tensed, paused, and glanced upwards to find her gaze. It was a moment in gentle surprise before he echoed a quiet; "Shana?" - Upon which Dart smiled and gave a wave. "Your up..."

She nodded. "I am. I'm going to see the others. Are you-"

"- I'll be with you and the group in just a moment."

Shana nodded, ducking back in.

Exiting the room thereafter, the group already assembled seemed to give a joint sigh of relief; be it from the departure of their original topic or simply to see she was well. Self consciously, the hazel eyed girl bowed her head slightly. Her simple white top and tan skirt wafted lazily around her ankles as Shana made it out into the middle of the room and took a seat near Emily. Meru was smiling like hell.

"Your awake!"

"Ah... Yes." A smile. "Dart's coming up. He should be here any moment."

That somewhat earned a joint sigh of relief as well. Emily leaned forwards to drape her arms over her knees, head tilted. She glanced to Miranda, and Miranda glanced back at Shana with a smile.

"How's the kiddo?"

"Coming along fine, really." And Shana nodded her thanks as Kongol handed her a cup of juice. She wasn't entirely sure of the kind, but anything that harbored the exotic fruits found in Rouge was always a good thing. Taking a sip of the nectar, a hand panned softly over her stomach. She was only just beginning to show. "Noticeable?"

"Kinda sorta." Meru replied with a grin. "Great. So soon I'm gonna be babysitting a Minidart."

Miranda snorted. "That'll be hell."

"Hey-!"

Laughter.

"Great. I leave you guys alone for a few hours, and what happens? Talking behind my back. I swear..."

THAT voice turned every head in the room. Shana smiled expectantly, but the rest looked, perhaps for a moment, even overjoyed despite themselves. Meru hopped to her knees on her chair, reaching a high five to their 'fearless leader' as Dart wandered over to the group. He had a towel half shucked over his head, rubbing at it furiously to dry the strands. "How'd ya like the shower-!?"

He gave her outstretched hand a smack. "Piece of crap."

"Bwhahha!!! I know!!!" And the Wingly clambered about a moment to find him an extra seat, pulling one up instantly. A second later, she lifted another glass of juice for him to take, and Dart echoed a parched; "Thanks." Before draining half the cup in a single swig. All at once he plunked down on the chair, eyeing the group. The group was eyeing him.

"... You guys trying to freak me out or something...?"

"Just happy to see you." Miranda half-scowled in a mocking manner. "I'm glad Meru went to get you. I'd say you could have stared out to sea another five hours if she hadn't." She tossed her head to Shana. "Your wife went right to sleep. We really haven't seen much of either of you."

"Sorry." The couple in question seemed to echo at once. This earned giggles from Emily and Meru; but Dart brushed them off with a lopsided smile and reached over, handing Shana a small little packet.

"For your sunburn? It's a salve." And as he spoke, She nodded her thanks. Kongol was rubbing a brow.

"I admit, we've been worried about you."

"Bah. I'm alright, big guy. Gods know its been hectic as of recent, but.." And Dart sipped his juice again. Shana now fiddled briefly with the item in her hands before looking up at her companions. There was a brief silence. Obviously, a request of sorts on further elaboration. No doubt Emily had brought the group up to speed, but...

"Its... been hard, I guess. Not really all the time, I mean, but..." She shrugged briefly." Zoir's been horrible. Ever since Albert got sick, he's been pressing Emily to waive control of the crown to him in the event of his death. I think everyone here knows that's not going to happen." A somber nod ran throughout the group. "But nevertheless, thinks he's entitled to the power of Serdio simply because Emily is his daughter; king or no king."

"Which-" Emily added. "Has put a terrible strain on Dart." She looked to her friends. "You all know he's become Guardian of the state, and holds command of the 7th knighthood. Oh gods, my friend, I'm so sorry about all of this..."

"Don't be." Dart smiled at her in a fashion that was weary, but heartfelt. He quietly pushed the thoughts in his head back as they slowly took to creeping up once more. A smile was easier to wear then a frown, at times. He could certainly afford a smile for the sake of his comrades. "Grah... yeah, I get troubles, but it's nothing I can't handle." And he raised a brow at Meru's scowl. "It's not that bad-!"

Said Wingly waved her arms dramatically. "No way!! Emily told us what they put you through!" And now Miranda came into the conversation again-

"Hell right she did! Look, they piss you off, just call me..."

Now Dart couldn't HELP but smile a little.

"GUYS-! Settle down, alright?"

Emily patted Miranda's arm to appease her temper a moment. "It's true, nevertheless. I'm often stuck in negotiations between Sandora and Serdio. The reunion of the factions has reunited Serdia, yes, but tensions still remain. Hellena has become a whole new base of operations for some sort of political reformation movement." A sigh. "And as I'm not always available, Dart has been shuffled over to Tiberoa at least six times this month alone. God knows what my father attempts to accomplish in having him there."

"He keeps offering me either opportunities of SOME facet, empty threats, or propositions of the kind that run along my giving him command of the 7th knighthood."

Miranda looked like she was going to hit the table again.

"And HIS excuse!? Because he's afraid Theresa may be plotting an attack against him! We damn will if he breaks treaty! I know what he's doing, though! Hah! That little maggot is trying to weaken Serdio! I say he wants war; but is looking for a scapegoat to the clause. ie; taking over Serdio from the inside out so he can spare his fat ass any trouble or- GOD forbid- Loss of men!!"

Another silence.

"I don't quite see why Zoir would be so power hungry."

Everyone looked at Kongol a moment. He threaded his large hands together, leaning backwards in his seat.

"He's not a wholesome character, no. But I know, and I think Emily knows, that the movements he's made over these past months have been both drastic and very out of character."

Emily confided that understanding in a soft; 'hnn."

Miranda just looked miffed. "So? It's not like we have an evil Zoir clone waddling around and batting people with his staff. After that whole scandal with Lenus, TRUST me, we've had representative mages from OUR country periodically summoned over to check for foreign magical signatures. He's showing his true colors; and I can't see outside influence being a facet. Who would so much as bother? His new wife? That woman wouldn't hurt a fly. She's wimpy enough to make Charle look like a demoness with five heads."

Shana chuckled lightly. "She's right, on that account. I've met her. She's really very sweet."

"Wimp."

Meru grinned. "I think she's sweet too."

"A wimp, I tell you! And... HEY! You've never even met her-!!"

Meru started snickering.

"DESPITE THAT..." Miranda snarled. "She doesn't approve of what Zoir's been up to either, as of late. If she was in on it, I doubt she'd disprove of her own plan."

"Regardless..." Dart finally interrupted."What is, is, right? We'll figure it out in time. For now-"

The ladder that served as an entryway suddenly gave a rumble. Quietly jolted from their thoughts and conversation; the group of friends turned their heads to find a short man emerge into the room from below. With the softest motion, he bowed gently, and smiled in greeting.

"If you will accompany me, it's time."

All at once, every notion dropped. Each of the six warriors came to their feet.


--~~--~~--~~--~~--~~--~~--~~--


Out past the boat house, through the swaying brambles of palm tree's and island shrub, there was a small little house that sat on the coast. Its wood was wired with vines that panned all over; emerging from the forests not far up shore to find hold in worn crevices. Only a shack by most comparison; today the path to its ancient door was flanked by slow burning candles. The sandy beach trail had been neatly combed over for Dart and company as the small procession made their way southward. Candleflame flickered in silent eyes, though behind the blue, the brown, the violet, or the ruby... emotion did indeed show.

Up ahead, the meager dwelling rose against a near departed sunset. The waters of rumbling ocean waves were black, only tinted with highlights of flicking color when they might crash against the shore into billions of white droplets. These swelled, spread, and returned to the sea in a never-ending, eternal lull. As the small elder that had roused the group continued on, Dart respectfully realized how appropriately this had been undertaken.

By Rogue tradition, the sea was the bringer of life. From she, every living creature had been birthed; and so in death, every living creature should be returned. The candles signified the blaze of the sun, the watchful specter, who if not present in the night; could guide in flame the dead to their waters. The subtle touches of culture; of a devotion to a simple way of life, touched him in a way. Haschel had always been a part of this, and he wished he'd had time to learn more of it.

From his grandfather, specifically.

Either way, when they reached the housing, he was prepared. White hair tumbling over his shoulders, the elder now reached out a hand and opened a door to allow them entry. Dart nodded gently, stepping inside with Shana behind him. Meru entered next, leading a silent Emily and Miranda in her wake. Finally, Kongol was the one that closed the door, and as one, they observed the room.

It too, was a boat house of sorts. Simply smaller, and lacking a southern wall where a dock had been centered. Again, those candles sat about. Some in clusters, some on stools or strung across the floor. It made the walls seem both lively and aglow; a comforting presence. When they sighted the water, however, most didn't expect to find Haschel situated in the single boat that was evident nearby. Ahead, he was speaking quietly with a few other men and woman. All of them were amidst the formality of parting words.

Meru, despite her obvious surprise, remained quiet when Haschel gave a terrible cough, and then a grin to end them all. One thin hand reached. Waved at them. The gathered persons already within the small area backed up and away, exiting quietly all at once.

"... Just can't do anything normal, can you?" Were Dart's first affectionate words as he came near.

"Your damned right I can't." His grandfather mused aloud. His voice sounded weak, but the passion behind his words were ever so admittedly Haschel. The elder was dressed as he always had; although his body hadn't kept the same stature Dart was used to seeing. His limbs had thinned out. His face was drawn more gaunt... and now, as Dart knelt beside him to take his hand? It shook. It actually shook.

"... It isn't only old age, is it?"

Haschel smiled a brash grin, and patted his hand gently.

"We don't know what it is, my boy. But it doesn't really matter- now does it?"

Dart felt his throat clench tight when, after those words, Haschel lifted to his hand a stone. The dragoon spirit of thunder rested in his palm a moment later, and as if to protest the transfer, far off at sea lightning flickered. He gazed into the deep violet quietly, looking up to his friends. Miranda and Meru were holding hands. Emily's face was a mask of control, and Kongol's a somber visage.

Shana had bit her lower lip, watching quietly.

"You find a good dragoon for that one, you hear?"

Dart clenched it tight a moment before pocketing the item, and nodded.

"Bah. That's a good thing, then. And dear gods, why the long faces, you six!? Even with Shana having MY great-grandson or great-granddaughter on the way?" Haschel absently lit the wicks of three candles in his boat, regarding them quietly. Dart smiled in a sad fashion; but Meru stepped forwards.

"Ha-" She cut herself short. "You... I.. I mean... a boat!? Why a boat? Aren't you- I mean- It- this-!"

He smiled at her. "Meru darlin', I could either wait for death on some godforsaken little bed, or I could hassle my attendants to bring me all the way out here. I'd rather use what's left of my breath out on the open sea, you know? It's all about the fun. Maybe I can't go out with a bang, but who knows... I might encounter a sea serpent or the like."

"And you'll STILL get it before it gets you." Miranda grinned.

"Maybe, eh?" Haschel replied cheerfully, reaching out a hand to the Wingly of their group as she came near, taking it carefully.

"Were... going to miss you." Shana said gently.

"I promise I'll do my best for Rouge." Came Kongol's next few words.

"I'm sure you will, friend." Haschel echoed. Meru was now crying, if not silently. She had forced her head down as if to stop the others from viewing her tears, and reached precariously over the gap between dock and boat to give Haschel a long hug.

"I'm gonna miss you too. I love you, and It's not fair my friends have to go away."

Haschel kissed her forehead in a fatherly manner, and helped Meru to right herself once more after a few moments. "I love you too, Meru, and the whole lot of you ruffians." A grin. "Just you promise me to make sure these fools go out and party sometimes, alright, gal?"

Closing Ruby eyes, the young woman nodded quickly. "I promise."

"Good girl. SO. Who's going to help me set sail, hnn?"

It was with laughter that the group of friends aided their companion. The tone of each voice was mournful in its own right, but even still accepting of the inevitable. Emily carefully handed Haschel a blanket, while Kongol easily unlatched the ropes that fastened the boat to the dock. There were more words, more tears; anything that could really be expected for those loosing one of their own. That was all Dart could continue to think when at last Haschel jerked lightly on the oars, and his small little vessel began to creep away from shore. Together, they stood on the dock. Together, they watched him leave.

"Dart-!" Came Haschel's voice. "I'm proud of you. You remember that-! Shana, keep that boy in line! And damnit Emily, when your husband wakes up, tell him I'm mad he missed this!!"

Dart nodded ever so gently, and raised a hand as Emily gave a soft laugh. He did not stop waving; NONE of them stopped waving gently into the cool night air until the candles that guided Haschel soon flickered out to far to see. When they finally had, he rubbed his sleeve over his eyes, knowing that behind him, similar gestures were being played out. Beside him, Shana's frame trembled only slightly with silent sobs; and it was a recollection he could not soon forget to see a tear crest the masculine lines of Kongol's face.

"... Always for adventure."

"Always." Meru echoed.

"Haschel, we'll never forget you."


--~~--~~--~~--~~--~~--~~--~~--


"Sir-!!" The voice rang out. At first, it seemed to faint to hear, but now? It was certainly not a sound one could ignore. Nearly loosing his perch on the chair cocked precariously beneath him, the Watchman pulled himself upright, looking out through the high tower windows. A boat? Wha-!? Yet unmistakably, that was the source of the voice.

"Sir! Please! Open your gates, I have an urgent message for her Majesty of Serdio, and his honor Dart Feld-!"

At this the watchman blinked. "Berdu, do you remember a Dart Feld comin' to this island earlier?" And he turned, looking at his partner who scrambled over to the gate-side of the tower.

"Yes indeed, Jarray." He nodded quickly. "Open those gates; I'll see what this is all about, aye?" And as his friend made to work the crank that would give rise to the docking gates below, Berdu quickly ran to the ladder nearest, sliding down the rungs with practiced ease to reach the lower docks. He quickly vaulted over one of the waterways that intertwined with the watchtower, and then came to a halt near the gate that was now slowly rising.

"Hurry it up, Jarray!"

"I am-!"

Abroad, a lantern was visible; shinning through the eerie black of night. As Berdu squinted ahead, he could make out only two figures total. One was dressed in military regalia of some kind. The other; an oarsman. The more official looking member of this late night voyage gave him a wave as the gate was finally pulled up, and all at once jumped into the dock as soon as their vessel was stationary. Berdu jumped back.

"Hold it now! What's all-" And a scroll was suddenly thrust into his hands before he could complete the question.

"Terribly sorry, sir! Please, deliver this message at once to Queen Emily of Serdia."

Berdu STARED. "And what's going on? I'll get it to her, no worries on that-!"

The officer only shook his head. "I am Derrick Macuro. Please tell her that. Any other information is strictly confidential at this time."

"Oh." Was the lame reply. "You're sure you don't wanna give this to her yo-"

"No time, sir-!" And the black-haired knight leapt back into the boat, standing as it began away once again. A baffled Berdu called after him regardless, utterly struck.

"This is with Serdio!? Is something wrong?! What brews!?"

"Give her the message!" Derrick echoed hurriedly, and beckoned his oarsman to quicken his pace. Berdu stared as the gate lowered once again, holding the parchment outright a moment. As Jarray peered at him from above, either resident of Rouge only spared each other a glance before Berdu took off, running hell bent throughout the paths outside.

"Queen Emily!!!"

Heads poked out from the houses nearest as the watchman bolted past.

"Queen Emily of Serdio-!"





~ end chapter two ~