Chapter 17

Worent was every bit as amazing as Red had made it out to be, and to Nina's surprise, was actually a little more. Worens were everywhere, milling in and out of tasteful looking shops and quaint little houses; sitting on hills covered in beautiful flowers of every color imaginable, talking and sometimes even singing to each other. Red's chest swelled with pride at her amazement. "I told you it's a great place, birdy. Now wait until you meet my old man!"

"Is he...nice?" Or like you, she thought jovially.

He laughed heartily and clapped a large clawed hand on her shoulder. She winced a bit. "Hell yeah he's nice! He's my father after all!"

"So, when are we going to meet him, Red?" Ryu asked yawning and stretching his arms high into the air. "I mean, we've been walking for quite some time." He clasped his hands behind his head.

Red's happy demeanor diminished. "Shut up, dragon, my house is near the back, alright?"

Ryu shrugged. "Alright, alright, I was just wondering."

Nina looked back at him and he smiled and winked. She turned back with slightly pinker cheeks. Suddenly, Red bounded a bit in front of her, crying out, and shook hands with two tall Woren boys that looked about his age. They laughed loudly and began an excited conversation about Red's travels.

Ryu quickened his pace to be next to Nina. "Are you nervous?"

A bit surprised, she looked up. "A little... Why?"

"The top of your wings are fluttering a little erratically. I've noticed they do that when you're worried about something." He said.

She reached back and stroked the top of her right wing, it indeed was fluttering a bit; Strange she didn't feel it though. She brushed the feathers down and closed her eyes. "I just...I'm nervous about meeting the leader of Worent. Father never talked too much about the Worens... I mean, I'm in a way, a representative of Windia here...I just..." Her voice faded when she felt his hand smooth down the feathers on the other wing. Face flushing, she moved it to discourage him. He glanced up at her with a slightly hurt expression. She held her breath. She had to say something. It wasn't as though it didn't feel nice, but it was different. When Red did it earlier, it didn't bother her that bad, but with Ryu... It made her heart skip, it made her body feel like it was engulfed in flames, it was just...

"You're not a representative of Windia, Nina. He's not going to think that. You're just a girl, one of Red's companions, coming to Worent to rest before your long trip to Drogen with your dragon friend afterwards." He said smiling.

Her stomach dropped. She had forgotten. Well, not really forgotten, just hadn't thought about it. She'd be just with Ryu after she left here. It wasn't that she didn't want to be with him, it was just...it was going to be weird without the rest of the group tagging along. They had been together for so long, and now... "Yeah...that's...true." She finally said when he continued to stare at her.

"You guys, I said come on! We're almost there!" Nina and Ryu both looked up to see Red standing by his friends, hands on his hips, tiger striped tail swishing impatiently behind him.

Ryu laughed and put his hands behind his head again. "You going to introduce us to your friends?"

"Hell no, not you at least."

Nina walked up and Red took her arm. "Hyal and Nickh, this is Nina." He said pointing to each other them. "She's the Princess of Windia."

The two Woren boys glanced at each other and smiled, and then reached out, grasping her hand in a firm handshake. She blushed. "It's...nice to meet you two..."



The one known as Hyal shook his long mane of bound red hair behind his shoulders and smiled a toothy smile. "The pleasure's ours. Red's just told us a lot about you. All good things, I must say, though."

Nickh laughed and Nina gave them a closer look. They...looked exactly the same. As if he could read her mind, Nickh smiled. "If you hadn't noticed, Hyal and I are twins. We've been good ol' Red's friends since the first time he transformed. Ain't that right Red kid?"

"I ain't a kid!" Red cried cuffing him on the shoulder.

Nickh laughed and cuffed him back. They began a small sparring match with each other until Hyal decided to join in. Then, it was an all out brawl. Ryu and Nina watched, both wide-eyed as they wrestled on the ground, all three laughing like madmen. Ryu shrugged. "Worens are weird, but I like them."

"They aren't weird, just...carefree."

"That's weird in this world."

Nina looked up at him. "I think it's rather admirable."

He looked down. "Or the actions of a foolish race."

Her jaw dropped. Had he really said that? She never thought that he thought like that. "Ryu...how could you say something like that?"

He shrugged again. "I'm not being mean, I'm telling the truth. They're carefree, alright, but one of the more naive races..."

"Maybe that's because we don't enjoy war like the dragons do, my young friend."

Ryu and Nina both whirled around to see Kisa standing behind them, hands on her hips. Her brow was furrowed, and she looked even more angry than she had been before. Ryu's cheeks flushed. "I don't think bad of you guys, I was just saying..."

"It doesn't matter. I didn't come here to bother with you." She said tartly. Then, raising her paws to her mouth, she yelled into the flurry of flying tawny fur. "Red! Get your ass over here! You're father is mad as hell right now!"

Immediately the fighting stopped and Red emerged, attempting in vain to comb his short red hair back. "Geez, Kisa, I was just sayin' hey to..."

"Nickh and Hyal, you know better than to bother Red." She snapped at the twins. "Go home. We don't need your mischief here."

The two Worens nodded sheepishly and waved at Red. He waved back and watched them disappear into the crowd. He whirled on his cousin. "Kisa!" He cried through clenched teeth. "You didn't have to be like that to them! They're my best friends and they were..."

"Bothering you when you had things to do."

"Stop interrupting me!"

"Come on, your father is waiting."

Red gave an exasperated sigh and quickly motioned for Nina and Ryu to follow.

* * *

It was an understatement to say that Red's house was big. Nina found it hard to believe that they didn't have a glimpse at it from the entrance. The whole back to the city was his estate. Even Ryu made a impressed gasping sound as Kisa made her way to the front gate. She reached into a tangle of ivy hanging over the huge stone wall surrounding the complex and fiddled around. Something clicked, and the ancient looking black barred gates opened. Nina watched in awe. So Red's house had more technology than the town entrance? Somehow, it didn't make a lot of sense. Kisa flipped her blonde waterfall of curls behind her orange shoulders with a jangle of jewelry and motioned for them to go in. "Just follow Red. I'm almost sure he hasn't forgotten the way in his own house."

Red scowled at her. "You comin' too?"

She shrugged producing even more clanging sounds. "Maybe later, I have things to do."

"Right." Red said with a slightly relieved expression on his face as he made his way through the gate.

"Wow, Red. You're house is so...extravagant!" Nina breathed gazing around as they walked. They were in what looked like a better version of the Windian castle courtyard, complete with a fountain that made hers look like something from a dump. A large pearly white Woren was carved into it, standing straight and ready for battle.

"That's my great great grandfather." Red said pointing to the Woren's screaming face.

"It's amazing." Ryu said softly.

Red looked back at him and his chest swelled even more. "Oh, yeah of course! I'll bet you don't have shit as great as this in Drogen."

Ryu snickered. "I'm guessing you haven't seen the statue of Ladon then, have you?"

Red's smile faded. "So what, like I care about some stupid god."

"Red! Don't say bad things about Ryu's god!" Nina hissed gently.

Red and Ryu both looked down at her. She gave them a look back. Yeah, it was one of the first times she had defended Ryu. So what, she thought, he defended her all the time... Red snorted and led them through the front door.

The inside of the house was dark. So dark, in fact, that it was hard for Nina to make out Red walking in front of her. She squinted down at the floor when her foot hit something big lying on the ground. It was odd; it seemed like things were littered all over the place. Once, she almost tripped, but Ryu's swift reflexes prevented it. She allowed him to keep a firm grip on her shoulder.

"Damn it, is he at it again?" Red whispered softly. Nina felt his tail hit her legs, she fought the urge to cry out. "I'm sorry about the darkness, it's just...Father thinks it's necessary to sharpen my night vision even in the," his voice became harsh. "most irrelevant of times..."

"But you have to be ready for anything." A gruff voice echoed out above them.

"Shit...!" Red cried and Nina heard him bound forward. Ryu's grip tightened and she shrieked when he jerked her back against him. Something fell where she was standing, and judging by the loud thud it gave, something big. A cry sounded and fighting pursued. Swift kicks, feet shuffling, and claws scraping against the floor could be heard in the pitch blackness.

Eyes wide, Nina threw herself against Ryu's iron grip, straining to see what the hell was going on. She squinted, but it was no use, it was too damn dark. "Red...!" she started to cry, but stopped when Ryu's mouth went to her ear.

"Shh...It's alright...its only..."

"Damn it, Father!" Red's voice cried followed by a loud crash. Swinging sounds echoed and a gruff grunt came after. "You...fucking...scared the...hell outta me!"

A loud laugh boomed and a high pitched yowl filled the air. Nina covered her ears.

Suddenly, as if by magic, every light in the house flared up. The small Windian girl squinted into the bright lights. Ryu seemed unaffected. After a second, the large blind spots in her eyes faded and she glanced around the now expensive looking lit house. Ryu placed a hand on her head and turned it forward. She gasped. There, in front of them, Red lay pinned on his stomach, under the largest Woren foot she had ever seen. The owner of it brought his golden rimmed gaze to them and smiled.

Red cried out and reached back, clutching his father's thick tawny ankle with trembling hands. "Get...offa me...!" he wheezed. You can't...do this...in front of the damn dragon!"

Red's father's smile suddenly faded and he took his foot from his struggling son. Red rolled onto his back and clutched his heaving chest with a scowl on his face.

Ryu loosened his grip on Nina as the heavyset Woren walked proudly towards him. Through scraggly orange eyebrows, his gold splashed eyes stared intently at the shining emerald of Ryu's. He extended a hand. Ryu immediately took it and gave it a firm shake, never taking his eyes away. After a minute or town, the Woren's harsh mouth curled into a smile. Ryu's eyes widened as he was pulled into a gigantic bear hug. Nina stepped back and tried not to smile at the look of anguish on Ryu's normally calm face. "So you much be the dragonboy Deja and Gabe were talking about!" Red's father cried, lifting him up off the ground. Breath catching in his now tight chest, all Ryu could do was nod.

Nina glanced around. "Are they here already?" She asked timidly, shrinking back a bit when the Woren's gaze turned to her.

"Yeah, they're waiting for us in the dining hall." He sais releasing Ryu who slumped slightly to a shaky stance. The Woren extended his hand to her. She hesitated and then took it cautiously. To her surprise, he lifted it to his lips. She fought the urge to let her jaw drop. "Juun Warin, at your service, your majesty." He said gently.

Nina blushed and smiled. "Nina Winlyn...It's very nice...to meet you, Mister Juun."

"Enchanted, but please," He said with a broadening smile. "Just call me Juun."

"Leave her alone you lech!" Red's voice cried. Nina and Junn both looked over to see Red standing, fists clenched and down to his sides.

Juun laughed and let Nina's hand go. He walked to his son and cuffed his shoulder. Red winced and grabbed onto it, scowling up at his father. "I see traveling has not affected your attitude, boy."

Red shot him a glare. "I'm not a boy." he said sharply.

"Right, right!" Juun cried with a laugh. "I forget. Now come on." He said motioning for them to follow. "Everyone's waiting to meet your new friends."

They walked down a long hallway until they got to one of the largest, most elaborate doors Nina had ever laid eyes on. It was made of a dark kind of reddish wood and had scenes carved into it. She guessed it was from some holy scripture or at least something important to the Woren race. Images of heroes doing heroic deeds spanned across the wood, making what looked like a very complex story. They walked closer, and Nina's eyes widened. At the top, there was a carving of a beautiful winged woman ascending into the sky, arms outstretched. It would have been a nice picture if it weren't for the hundreds of Woren warriors below her, hurling spears at her angelic form. She brought her hand to her open mouth. Red looked down at her and his harsh demeanor softened. "Hey, birdy." He said gently. "We don't think that way about Windians, I promise. That's just the war I was telling you about, remember? We hate the Goddess, not Windians."

She nodded, but kept her hand to her mouth. Why did she feel so saddened when she looked at this. It wasn't as though she even believed in the Goddess, it was just...looking at her serene face and the spears piercing her body, it made her stomach clench.

Juun placed his large hands on the door and pushed, a deafening creaking sound filling the air. Light poured over them as the door was opened, and Nina's blue eyes suddenly went wide. It was another hallway, but this one contained a long table, spanning over the length of the room. On either side of it, on the walls, thousands of candles burned and above it, five magnificent glittering chandeliers hung from the domes gold rimmed ceiling. She held her breath. How could this place be more expensive looking than her Father's castle?

Juun laughed at her expression and led them further into the room. Seated at the table, were many people, and not all Worens. Each nodded towards them and smiled as they passed. Nina couldn't help but to just stare at them. They walked until they reached the very head of the table, where Deja and Gabe sat and three chairs near them were empty. Red sat near the front beside Gabe and Deja. Nina and Ryu took the two seats across from him, Nina sitting by a human boy looking about her age. He nodded at her as she sat. She flashed him a nervous smile.

Juun moved to the head of the table and stood behind his chair. Nina looked up. Behind him, was a gigantic portrait of him and a very beautiful woman. She guessed it was Red's mother.

A sharp clanging noise brought her attention back down to Juun, who was tapping his wine glass with a fork. "Good evening everyone!" He bellowed. Red clasped his hands and leaned forward. Juun glanced at him and then back over the table. "As you all know, we are gathered here today to celebrate the return of my son, Red Warin." Cheers followed and the boy beside Nina lifted up his glass. Nina did the same. "I know, I know," Juun said laughing. "It's wonderful to have him back. I must say, though, this is not a completely satisfactory return." Red's cheeks flushed and he looked down. "But, no matter. We might have been too hasty to push him to harness the power of Weretiger at such a young age, after all, I was thirty before I was able to!" Nods were given. "I guess we were mislead by his premature transformations." Red snorted loudly. Deja elbowed him and he shot a glare at her. Juun looked down at him and he smiled. "Nevertheless, I feel there still should be a celebration for his return, so after dinner, I would remind everyone to head out to the town square, where we'll throw the greatest party the little bastard's ever seen!" The cheers were louder this time and Nina noticed even Ryu joined in this time. "Now, how's about we all dig in!" He cried. "To Red!"

"To Red!" Everyone shouted in unison. Nina clanged glasses with the boy and then Ryu, spilling a bit of wine in the process. She, daintily as she could, wiped it up with her napkin. Afterwards, she glanced up and her smile faded. Red was staring at her. It wasn't a normal stare, either, it was one...that made her breath catch in her throat. The Woren looked as though, he wanted to cry. But that wasn't right, Red never looked like that... She cocked her head and mouthed "What's wrong?" He didn't mouth anything back, though. He continued to stare until his Father poked him hard on the shoulder. Hesitating, he turned to him and began a conversation that looked pained for him to have.

"Hey, Nina, what's wrong?" Ryu asked taking a large bite of what looked like lobster. "You haven't touched your food."

She looked down. She hadn't even noticed they had put food on her plate. She lifted her fork and pierced a bit of dressing covered lettuce. "Nothing...well..." She started softly, taking a bite. It was pretty good. "I...don't know, Ryu...I'm a little worried about Red."

"Why? He's getting a party after all."

She looked over at Red who was still talking to his Father. She leaned her chin on her wrist and let her hand go limp, the fork dangling in it. "I...just don't think he's happy."

"Is he ever happy?"

She looked up at him. "I...guess not...really..."

For the rest of dinner, Nina didn't say anything. She felt content just listening to the conversations everyone else was having. Ryu made friends with the boy beside her, who happened to be a swordsman as well. First they would fight about what swords were the best, and then they would commend each other on their collections. Boys were weird. Deja and Gabe seemed to be in a deep conversation as every now and then, would glance at Ryu. She figured if they had something to say to him, they might as well say it. Red and his Father, though, for the life of her, she couldn't figure out what they were talking about. It seemed important, but also very painful to Red. She wished she knew. Red was a strange boy, yes, but she didn't like to see him in a bad mood. She didn't like anyone to be in a bad mood.

* * *

After dinner, Juun led everyone out into the main foyer of the house. He told them to get ready and be out in the town square in about an hour. While everyone else dispersed he walked to her, Red, and Ryu. "If you don't mind," He said. "I'd like a word with you, Mister Dragoneye."

Ryu nodded and gave a glance at Nina. "I'd be honored." He said.

Juun smiled. "Don't worry, I won't let her majesty wander around alone." Red perked up. "Kisa! Get over here! I have a job for you!" Red growled and started to walk towards the door.

Kisa emerged in a clatter of metal and walked next to Nina. "You want me to entertain her, Uncle?"

He nodded. "Yes, just until I finish talking to Mister Dragoneye. Is that alright your highness?"

Nina looked up at Kisa who gave her a slightly annoyed stare back. "Yes, yes it's alright Juun." She said softly, feeling her stomach clench up again.

Juun nodded and smiled. "Good! We'll all meet in the square in an hour. I expect you all to attend! You've never seen anything until you've been to a Woren celebration!" He laughed loudly.

Nina nodded and Kisa took her arm. "Come," she said tartly. "I'll show you the rest of the house."

Giving a worried glance at Ryu, she followed Kisa up the main stairway.

* * *

Red sighed and sat on the edge of the fountain in the courtyard. Growling, he placed his elbows on his knees and cupped his chin in his hands. It was so stupid, why was his father being like this? And fighting him nonetheless? Did he really think he had the strength to do so? He winced. The throbbing bruise on his back sure said otherwise. It didn't make any sense, though, for him to be almost equally happy he just returned. It would have been better, he knew, for him to have been able to control Weretiger, but...what was he to do? Gabe and Deja wouldn't let him go until he was ready. He closed his eyes. Would he ever be ready?

"Are you brooding again?"

He looked up to see Deja standing in front of him. Her hair was now bound in new braids and ponytails and she had let her long bangs fall in ringlets around her face. As much as he hated her sometimes, he had to admit, she really was damn nice looking. He snorted as much as he could muster and looked away. "I don't need your pity, fox." He spat.

Ignoring his angry tone, she sat beside him. He glanced over at her. She sighed. "I'm sorry I didn't take you to Angel Tower, Red." She said softly. "I just..."

He managed a smile. "No, I know why I didn't go and I think you and Gabe are right." Her violet eyes, now with a hint of gray shadow over them, widened. He sighed. "I'm not ready. I shouldn't have attacked the dragon. He just...made me feel so useless." He clenched his teeth. "I mean, I was the king of the world until he showed up!"

She nodded. "Red, but you do know that dragons are amazing fighters..."

"I couldn't even touch the bastard! I thought the only way to freak him out would be to transform!"

"It freaked everyone out."

He laid his arms on his legs and met her gaze. "Do you think I'm useless?"

She laughed gently. "Of course I don't! If I did, I wouldn't have chosen to be your guardian! You know that, Red."

"Everyone respects the dragon, hell, Nina seems to worship the ground he walks on."

Her mouth curled into a smile. "Red Warin, are you jealous?"

His cheeks flushed. "Hell no, woman! I ain't jealous of no damn dragon!" He cried defensively, but it didn't seem to convince her.

"You have to remember, Red. Nina has been through a lot. Who knows the reason she left the castle...and that night at the bar..."

"Did she really kill that man?"

Deja nodded. "I'm pretty sure it was by accident, though. A nice girl like her could never purposely take a life..."

"You know, Deja?" Red said softly. "I could really like a girl like her."

She smiled and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Then...stop being an ass towards her. Act like a normal man."

He laughed. "Well...I don't know. The dragon seems like he's better at that shit than me."

"I think you'd do fine."

"Maybe." He said smiling slightly, staring into her bright violet eyes.

She stood and reached back, tightening a few of her pony tails. "Well, I've got a few things to attend to before your party. I'll see you later, alright Red?"

He nodded. "Yeah, later."

Bringing her hands in front of her, she nodded. "Be good, Red."

"Aren't I always?"

He watched as she disappeared past the gate and smiled to himself.

* * *

Ryu glanced around the room Juun had led him to. It looked almost like a training room. If this was going where he thought it was going, he'd rather play tour guide with Nina.

"This is the room where I train Red." Juun said moving his arms to point out everything in the room. Weights were scattered everywhere, along with various kinds of mats and weapons hanging on the walls.

Ryu decided he should comment on it. "Impressive." He said.

"Damn right it is!" Juun cried smiling.

They spent a minute staring at each other in silence, until Ryu broke it. "So, Master Juun, why did you wish to bring me here?"

The large Woren laughed. "My, you're clever, boy." He clenched his fists and pulled them back. "I want you to show me the demon that caused my son to resort to using his ancient powers."

"Demon?"

Juun nodded. "Everyone knows that the power of Ladon is right below that of the demons."

Ryu clenched his teeth. "You rely too much on the past, old man."

"I know what I'm talking about!" He cried. "Now, show me!"

Ryu's emerald eyes traced over the oversized now crouching Woren. He shook his head slowly. "I can't."

Juun's face fell. "What? Are you too afraid? I can control my powers, you know that, right?"

"I'm not transforming."

"And why not?" Juun asked angrily.

Ryu pushed his long hair behind him. "Too dangerous."

Juun chuckled. "Oh really? You really must be afraid then." He smiled, fangs glinting in the candlelight. "Fine, if you want to play that way, I'll force it out of you!"

The large cat's image suddenly flickered. Ryu's eyes widened and he stepped back. The blow came from behind, where he least expected the damn thing. Stumbling forward, he whirled around. Juun was smiling. "I'm fast, I know." He said softly.

Ryu clenched his teeth. "This is ridiculous! I will not fight you!" Now he realized just where Red got his arrogance.

Juun spat onto the hard wood floor. "Are you that proud, dragon? Show me now!" He cried and once again flickered. This time, though, Ryu was ready. Opening his nostrils to the air, he sensed the Woren's movements. He concentrated. To the right. He brought his arm up and took the full force of Juun's blow. He had to admit, it hurt like hell.

Bending back, he dodged another blow aimed at his head. "I mean it, Warin, I don't want to fight you!" He cried pushing Juun back.

The old cat stumbled a bit, then regained his stature. "You are one arrogant bastard, dragon." He was wheezing.

Ryu brought his fists back. "I'll have you know, I didn't transform when I fought your son."

Juun dropped his stance. "You...didn't?"

Ryu shook his head. "Red just wasn't fast enough. He couldn't hit me so he got angry."

"Was that...it?"

The dragon nodded. "All a misunderstanding."

Juun smiled and clutched his heaving chest. "Well damn, I thought Red was a bit more controlling than that..." He sat down with a loud thud. Ryu stared at him. Juun laughed. "Yeah, I know, I was all talk earlier. Actually I didn't want you to transform. Sorry for hitting you, that's about the best I can do."

"It's not the first time this has happened to me"

Juun coughed. "I'm old. Red knows that. I couldn't transform even if I wanted to."

"Why not?"

He laughed again. "Would take too much outta me. I'm afraid it'd probably send me to the grave."

Ryu crossed his arms. "Then why did you attack me?"

Juun smiled. "Let's just say...I'm a father looking out for his son."

Ryu let his arms fall and he sat down on the ground in front of him. "Red's not a bad fighter, he just doesn't think before he acts."

"You're pretty good yourself. You caught on right away and knew exactly where I was."

Ryu laughed. "Well, it's not all that. I smelled you. Worens have a very distinct scent."

Juun raised an eyebrow. "Are you sayin' we smell bad?"

"Like a rotten wet dog." Ryu said grinning.

Juun burst into a fit of laughter that echoed throughout the large room. Ryu couldn't help but to laugh with him. Of course, he was kidding, but he found he could relax with this old man. It may have seemed odd, but he reminded him of someone, sometime long ago that he could sit and talk to like this. Someone it pained him to think about sometimes. But even throughout the pain he respected this man, and...it actually began to open a deeper respect, for his asshole of a son.

* * *

"Umm...I'm not so sure about this... Didn't you say we were going to tour the house?"

"Don't be such a baby, Princess. I'm really not going to hurt you."

"But it does hurt!"

"You're just not used to it."

"How could I ever be?"

"Just hush."

Nina winced again as Kisa pulled the straps of fabric behind her tighter. The Woren girl had took her to her room and made her take a bath. She said that Juun would be even more honored if she looked nice for Red's occasion. Nina figured along with being clean, she was supposed to wear these odd garments. Well, they weren't odd, but she definitely wasn't used to them. Kisa's reflection smiled at her in the mirror. "As soon as I fix your hair, you should be fine."

Nina tried to smile. Kisa really wasn't as bad as Red had made her out to be, she just probably didn't like him. She winced again. "I think it's tight enough..." She wheezed. Her eyes moved to her own reflection. The clothes did look rather nice, but it just wasn't anything she would have picked out on her own. For one thing, they were a bit skimpy for her taste. She was only wearing two pieces of silk-like light blue fabric. One large one was wrapped around her waist and pulled up into a mid-thigh length skirt. It was cute, but it didn't bother her as bad as the other piece though. That was considerably smaller, and was wrapped only around her chest; the one Kisa continued to tighten.

"Oh don't be a prude. You know, it's alright to show a bit."

Nina blushed. "I...just don't think I need to..."

"And it's not like you don't have anything. You've got a very cute figure. Anyways, it's hard enough to do this with these things in the way." She said attempting to push her wings aside.

"I'm sorry..." Nina said softly. "I just...it's hard for me to feel comfortable like this."

Kisa laughed. "You'll be fine! All the Woren girls your age wear things like this, so you won't be the only one."

She sighed. "Alright, I still...I'm really sorry."

"You'll knock 'em dead, kid."

Nina leaned her head back as Kisa took a brush to it. "Hey Kisa?"

"Yeah?"

"Why...do you and Red not get along?"

The brush stopped. For a second Nina felt like she shouldn't have said a thing, but Kisa soon sighed, and Nina exhaled. "Maybe we're just too alike. I don't know." She said softly. "We just seem to fight a lot."

"I can see how. Red's not the easiest person to get along with."

Kisa laughed. "Tell me about it." She reached back and rummaged through a box on a table beside her. She pulled out a pin with a shimmering blue butterfly on it. Pulling back a section of her long bangs, she pinned them neatly.

Nina noticed the butterfly's wings flutter. "That's...so beautiful..."

"My mother gave me that before she died."

Nina reached up and touched it, moving the wings more. The bracelet on her arm slid down. "You must treasure it so..."

"Of course, and I will tell you... If you lose it, I'll have to kill you."

Nina smiled into the mirror, turning sideways to look at the short flipped out back of her hair. "Don't worry. I'm trustworthy."

"With the way Red treats you...I know."

Nina's sea blue eyes moved to Kisa's golden ones. She looked...saddened somehow. Inside, Nina's heart ached. Did everyone in the outside world have some kind of unimaginable anguish in their hearts? She reached back and clutched Kisa's hand gently.

* * *

"So, this Princess, she mean a lot to you?" Mustadio asked ripping a leg from the animal Rastolf had brought back from the forest. He took a bite, tearing the meat from the bone with a sick slurping sound.

Shyong nodded, giving him a wary glance. "More than you could imagine."

Gene leaned over and rasped something into Mustadio's ear. He laughed and then pushed long green bangs from his face. "Gene wants to know if she's a lover or something."

Shyong's eyes narrowed and he took a hearty bite out of his own piece of meat. "I would never think of her as something like that."

Rastolf tossed more sticks into the fire in front of them. It popped and sizzled, rising up a bit, then died down. "She was pretty girl. I remember from bar."

Mustadio nodded. "Yeah, she was pretty nice looking. I thought for a second I'd go talk to her. Those wings... Pretty big turn on if you ask me. Makes her look kinda like an angel or something." He licked his lips. "I can just imagine her lyin' there, beggin' me to stroke 'em..." He stopped as a blade came inches from his neck. Gasping slightly, his eyes moved to Shyong's in front of him. "Hey, listen, I'm just kiddin' I mean, it's just a fantasy I mean..."

Shyong's face contorted into a stone cold sneer, and his eyes widened in the flickering firelight. "You will never speak of her again in such a manner, you immoral wretch... Do you understand?" he rasped acidly.

Mustadio reached up with a trembling hand and pushed the sword tip slowly away. "Sorry...I didn't know you thought so highly of her..."

Shyong snorted and sheathed his sword. Gene and Rastolf stared at him and then Mustadio who shook his head quickly. They took their hands from their swords.

"How long will it take us to get to Worent?" Shyong asked sharply.

Mustadio rubbed his throat and then shrugged. "Few days, I guess. Not too long."

Shyong nodded. "Good. The faster we get there, the more I'll pay you."

Rastolf brightened. "We get there soon! Boss and us promise!"

Shyong took another bite of his food and stared up into the sky. An odd feeling crept up into his stomach. What if the dragon thought about her the same way that thief did? What if he was hurting her right now, pushing her to do things against her will...? What if she was crying out for him right now? He squeezed his eyes closed and clenched his fists so hard, they began to cramp. He would kill that boy. No matter what, he wanted that boy to suffer. Suffer for the crimes he committed against the Princess. He would pay for this scar. He would pay for everything. Shyong felt his mouth slowly curl into a smile. He would make him beg for his life...

* * *

Ryu followed Master Juun through the massive crowds of people and into the town square. There, Deja, Gabe, and Red waited for him near another statue of Red's ancestor. He walked to them and ran his hands through his now clean hair. It felt odd, it hadn't really been clean in days. He shook Gabe's hand and smiled at Deja who smiled back. "Well don't you look nice, Ryu?" She asked eyeing most likely, his clean hair and slightly cleaner clothes.

He chuckled and looked over at Red. He was dressed different as well as the others. Instead of the usual black tank top, his chest was bare. He merely wore a pair of ancient looking beige pants. Around his neck, he wore three necklaces, the largest one containing what looked like an animal tooth, extending almost to his sculpted abs. His hair was down and his bangs hung slightly in his face. Crimson eyes narrowed, the Woren was staring off into space. Ryu walked to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Red, you alright, man?"

Growling, he pushed his hand off. "Don't touch me, dragon. It's nothing you need to worry your prettyboy head about, alright?"

Deja shook her head. Gabe laughed loudly and cross his heavily robed arms.

"If I can have everyone's attention, please!" The crowd fell silent and all heads turned to Juun standing on the base of the statue. Thick arms outstretching, he surveyed the crowd, grinning ear to ear. "I just wanted to say. Let's get this party started!"

Immediately at the end of his sentence, a group of about ten Woren boys began to bang rhythmically on many different drums. Another group started playing various flute-like instruments to the beat. The crowd around Ryu's group began to dance. Deja grabbed Ryu and Gabe's arms and attempted to pull them out of the frenzy of moving people. After a bit they finally managed to worm their way out. Deja wiped her brow. "Geez, it's always like that, those damn Worens just dance and dance until they're too exhausted to move!" She cried laughing.

Red, who had gotten out of the crowd before them tapped his foot on the ground. "Hey dragon, you know where Nina is?" He asked impatiently.

Ryu shook his head. "I haven't seen her since Kisa took her."

"Well you're supposed to keep an eye on her! How come you didn't follow?"

Ryu made a face. "Red, lighten up! Your father wanted to talk to me, and Nina can take care of herself!"

"But you left her with that bitch! What if..."

"What if I what, Red?"

They both glanced over. Kisa stood with her hands on her hips glaring at the both of them. "Kisa! I didn't see you there." Red said with a fake sweetness. Ryu noticed something blue moving behind the Woren woman.

She leaned forward, cheeks turning red. "What the hell is wrong with you, Red?! I wouldn't do anything to that poor girl!" The blue thing behind her sneezed daintily.

Ryu sniffed the air. "Nina?" He asked moving to get a better look.

From behind Kisa, Nina walked sheepishly into view. She was blushing profusely and her arms were crossed over her chest. Kisa glared at her. "Nina! I told you not to walk like that! Put your arms to your side and stand up straight!" She cried tugging at the Windian's arms.

Reluctantly, allowed her to move them and Ryu and Red's eyes both widened. "Oh my goodness, Nina, you look amazing!" Deja cried running from behind them to her and grasping her hands. "Did Kisa do this to you? Good job Kisa!" She cried touching Nina's short blonde hair.

Red's mouth dropped open. Sure, he had thought she was good looking before, but now, well...she was...damn good looking. Plus, she was dressed like a Woren chick. He couldn't help it, it attracted him. Pushing his shoulders back, he ran a hand through his flame red hair. He walked past a silent Ryu and stopped in front of her. Smiling a large toothy smile, he reached up and took one of her hands from Deja. Nina looked up at him and blushed. "Red...what's up?"

"You wanna dance?" The blushing intensified.

"Uh...sure...I guess."

"Good." He said pulling her towards him. She squeaked a little in surprise, but allowed him to lead her into the crowd.

"Alright, well I'm going to find Uncle Juun." Kisa said loudly over the music.

Deja thrust out her bottom lip. "Oh, Kisa, why don't you stay with us?" She pouted.

"I can't, I have a lot of things to do. Plus, Juun wanted to give your friends a going away gift before they leave. I have to get it ready."

Ryu watched Nina disappear into the crowd and then looked back at Kisa. "What kind of gift? He doesn't have to do that."

She giggled. "Uncle's very hospitable. He'll do anything to make sure you guys had a great time here."

"That's very kind of him."

"Well, thanks for the offer, Deja. I'll be back later to talk to you, I promise, okay?" Kisa said giving Deja a hug.

Deja nodded. "Wait, I'll walk with you a bit." She turned to Ryu and Gabe. "I'll be back soon, okay?" She took Kisa's arm and started back towards the main house.

Ryu crossed his arms and sat down on a bench behind him. Gabe did the same. It was odd, being alone with Gabe. He really didn't talk that much and when he did, it usually was just towards Red. That's why it really surprised him when he was the first to speak. "Kisa is Deja's best friend." He said gruffly.

"Oh really?"

"Yeah. They've known each other since they were kids."

"Well that's nice."

Gabe turned to him, his shaggy gray hair blowing in the wind. "You're thinking about Nina, aren't you?"

Ryu made a face. "Well...why would I be doing that?"

Gabe smiled broadly. "Because she dancing with Red and not you."

"Since when do you care about things like that, Gabe?"

The dog man laughed. "I really don't care. I was just making conversation. I can't help what I see, though."

Ryu shrugged and smiled smugly. "Who could blame me, though. She's beautiful."

Gabe raised a bushy eyebrow. "Oh? So I was right?"

"Maybe a little, but don't praise yourself too much."

Gabe laughed again. "Don't worry, Red's a terrible dancer."

"Are you serious?"

"Why don't you go see for yourself?"

"I don't want to spy."

It's not spying. Just do it. It'll make you feel better."

Ryu took a deep breath and eyed the dog man for a second. Then, reluctantly, he nodded and stood. "You know, if you're lying..."

"Would miss a chance to embarrass him?"

Ryu smiled. "Well...I guess not." The wind blew his bangs back harshly. He grasped them with his hand and stared out into the mass of dancing Worens.

* * *

Nina clung to Red as they wove through the crowd. He didn't care, he was rather enjoying it. Screw that dragon, he thought staring down at her slightly nervous face; she was with him now. They reached a relatively clear spot and stopped. Nina looked up. Red smiled and wrapped his bare muscular arms around her waist. She giggled, his fur tickled her skin. Nervously, she reached up and put her arms around his neck. She closed her eyes and waited for him to move.

"Uh...Nina, what are you doing?" He cried out above the loud music.

"Waiting on you to start!"

Red glanced around nervously. "I'm...supposed to move first?"

She looked up at him. "You are the guy after all."

He laughed nervously and pulled her tighter against him. Whether they danced or not, he really didn't care. He just liked the fact she was so close to him. "Alright, alright, I'm goin'."

What happened next, could barely have been classified as dancing. It was more like "stomping on Nina's feet". Every time the Woren would move, his large feet would crush hers. She winced each time, but tried not to show it. She didn't want to embarrass him. After about ten or so times of doing this, Red forgot the fact that she was against him. He started concentrating on being able to move without killing her. Nina closed her eyes and hoped he would start getting it soon...anytime..ever...

"Oh...sorry."

"It's okay."

"Oh...crap..."

"It's okay."

"Shit..."

It's...fine..."

Red lifted his arm to his brow and wiped sweat away. Man, this dancing thing was hard. He took a deep breath and started to move again. She cringed. He gave her a hurt look. "Hey I'm really sorry, I..."

A loud laughing could be heard behind them. Cheeks red, Red looked back to see Ryu standing there, a smug smile on his face. Nina gave him a pleading look. "Do you need any help there, Red?" Ryu asked gently.

The Woren clenched his teeth. "Why you...! You been standin' there the whole time?"

He shrugged. "Not that long..."

Red took an arm from Nina and clenched the fist. "You son of a...!" He stopped when he felt her touch his arm.

"Red, why don't you take a break? We've been out here for a long time." She said.

Red's face fell and he looked from her to Ryu, then back to her again. Was she...trying to get rid of him? He shot Ryu a smirk and then reached up, cupping Nina's chin in his hand. Her eyes widened as he leaned closer. When his mouth was inches away from hers, he smiled. "Alright...but I'll be back, birdy." He said softly. Nina's cheeks flared and he let go. Ryu glared at him as he passed by. Red smiled and bowed to him. "She's all yours buddy boy."

Ryu took a deep breath and walked to Nina after Red was out of sight. "Are you alright?" He asked. "I saw what he was doing to your feet."

She smiled. "I hadn't the heart to tell him he wasn't any good."

"I thought you took dancing lessons. Why didn't you help him?"

She sighed and looked down, cheeks returning almost to their normal color. "I don't know...I guess I was just hoping he'd learn. Maybe I'm just mean."

"No, no you're not mean." Ryu said with a smile.

Nina looked up, cheeks flaring up again. Damn it why did they always do that? "Do you...well..." She stammered. "Are you any good?"

He glanced down at her. "Are you asking me to dance, your majesty?" He asked with a grin.

She smiled and waved her hands in front of her. "Oh, you don't have to if you don't want to, I mean..." She stopped when he grasped her hands out of the air.

"Of course I'd love to. It's not everyday I get to dance with a Princess."

Trembling, Nina let him pull her against him. Honestly, Red was the first guy she had ever really danced closely to, and he had pulled her quite close at that. She thought it would be weird, but it really wasn't, just like with the wings, but with Ryu... She couldn't stop shaking, and her heart was beating so hard against her chest, she thought it would burst.

He let go of her hands and wrapped his arms around her waist. She felt her body press close to his. For a second, she just let herself be against him. He was soft and he kind of smelled nice. He laughed and she felt the vibration in his chest. She looked up. "This is the part where you put your arms around me, Nina."

Scarlet faced, she nodded and slowly put her arms around his neck. For a moment, neither one moved. Nina's heart beat even harder. It reminded her of that time, by the river, when she cried against him. Her legs felt weak. Just had to do something, say anything...Finally, she mustered up enough courage to speak. "Ryu...you do know, they aren't playing a slow song..."

He looked down at her and smiled. "I know, I just wanted to be close for a second."

She blushed and took her arms from his neck. He laughed, but still held onto her waist. "I-I..."She stammered.

He laughed again. "Hey, you know, I'm pretty good at fast dancing."

She blinked twice. "You...you want to fast dance?"

He nodded and narrowed his emerald eyes at her. "I'm going to warn you, though, I'm extremely good."

She felt herself snicker. It was weird, but she was highly confident in her dancing skills. "Oh really? Show me then."

Reaching back and grasping one of her hands tight, he pulled her face close to his. "You're on, little bird." She blushed.

* * *

Red found Gabe and plopped down next to him. The dog man couldn't help but smile. Red glanced over at him. "What're you laughing about, huh Gabe?"

"You know you can't dance."

Crimson eyes narrowing, he leaned his elbows on his legs. "Did you send him out there?"

Gabe shrugged. "I don't know. I was talking to him and next thing I knew, he was off into the crowd."

Red spat. "Tch...you are so full of shit Gabe. You know that, right?"

"Where's Ryu and Nina?"

Gabe and Red looked up to see Deja come forward. She glanced at Red and stifled a laugh. "I can't believe you really tried to dance, Red."

"Shut UP you two!" He cried.

Suddenly, the crowd seemed to form a large circle. Deja stood on her toes. "Wh-what's going on?" She asked craning her neck.

Red stood along with her. "Oh shit..." He said catching a glimpse through a slight part in the crowd. "That bastard..."

"What?" Deja cried jumping up.

* * *

Nina grasped Ryu's hand and moved her feet to the rapid beat, swinging her hips as she did so. Ryu followed, feet and hips the same. She raised an eyebrow. He did it back and pulled her towards him. He grasped her other hand and continued to move his body at the same pace. Her eyes widened as he leaned forward, still moving and dipped her. "Ryu...what are you...?" He shut her up by lifting her leg onto him. She blushed and he pulled her up. He touched his nose to hers and smiled.

"Oh, you think you're so great don't you?" She asked blue eyes narrowing.

He smirked. "I've only just began..." He pulled her other leg up and dipped her again, causing another rush of blood to her cheeks. Moving his hands to her waist, he straightened and lifted her into the air. She was surprisingly light. Before he could bring her down, though, she reached out and grasped both of his shoulders. Using her wings, she propelled herself out of his arms and into a handstand on him. This would have been quite a graceful move, had she not forgotten the skirt she was wearing. As soon as she felt the fabric start to slide up her legs, she pushed off, and did a rather awkward flip in the air. She landed on her feet and straightened the skirt, cheeks red. The crowd cheered.

Ryu turned and placed his hands on his hips. "What was that, Nina? I thought we were dancing!"

She pushed her bangs back behind her ear. "I thought we were too until you..."

He laughed and held out his arms. "Want to try again?"

A smile came to her lips and she nodded, running towards him and grasping his hands again.

* * *

"Did you see that?" Deja cried. "Those two are amazing! I just can't believe she just did that!"

"Yeah, yeah, it's amazin'." Red snorted.

"But look at them! You could learn something!"

Red's crimson eyes narrowed as he watched Ryu swing Nina out and back into his arms. She was smiling. She was fucking smiling... The dragon turned and they pressed their backs against each other and danced, still holding hands. They brought the hands out and then back in. Nina swung herself up and flipped over his back. She landed in front of him and continued to swing her hips. Red's cheeks turned as crimson as his eyes when Ryu pulled her extremely close and pressed his goddamn forehead on hers.

Clenching his teeth he pushed past Deja and starting to walk back towards his house. "Red! Where are you going?" She cried. "They aren't done yet!"

Red reached back and waved his hand. "Don't care! I'm goin' to bed."

Deja turned to Gabe. "Is he...?"

The dog man nodded. "Jealous as hell..." He said softly.

Deja sighed. "I better go talk to him...."

"Where's Red?" Nina asked walking up to them, trying to tighten the fabric on her chest. She was breathing heavily.

Deja looked over at Gabe. "He...uh...well he went to bed... He said he was really tired."

Ryu shrugged. "Well, we're leaving tomorrow. Does he not want to talk to us before hand?"

"We're leaving tomorrow?" Nina asked glancing up.

He nodded. "We've wasted enough time here, the Elder's waiting for my return." He said, placing a hand gently on her shoulder.

She looked down. "I'm...going to go find him."

"I don't know if you can get into the main house...Where did Juun say you were staying?" Deja asked.

"In the Inn. He said he would've given us a room in the main house, but with you and Gabe back..." Ryu said.

Deja smiled. "Hey, the Inn's good." She said, then she looked down at Nina. "I'll tell Red to get up early and see you guys off, alright?"

This seemed to make the Princess feel a bit better. She nodded slowly. Ryu pulled her back and she looked up. "Let's get to the Inn, alright, Nina? We need to be up pretty early." He said. She nodded.

Gabe pointed over past the giant statue. "It's right over there, to the right. Just tell the innkeeper who you are. Well, he'll notice her wings."

"We'll come visit you in the morning, I promise." Deja said smiling.

Nina nodded again. "Thanks...Oh!" She cried reaching up. She unhooked the butterfly pin from her hair and placed it in Deja's hand. The wings fluttered and glinted in the moonlight. "Give this to Kisa for me...and tell her thank you." Deja nodded, eyes wide, and closed her hand.

"Gabriel..." She said after they left. He looked up at her wide trembling eyes. "Kisa...Kisa let her wear this..." She glanced out into the star filled sky. "There really must be something about that girl..."

* * *

Nina pulled down the covers of her bed and got in. It was nice and cool, a welcome change to the humid weather outside. She snuggled down into the sheets and grasped the covers under her chin. "You comfortable?" She glanced over at Ryu, who was standing in front of the three windows spanning the east wall of the room. Moonlight splashed over his body, making it look like he was shining.

She nodded. "Yeah, I'm fine...Why?"

He walked to her bed and sat on the edge. She turned to face him. He stared at her warmly. "I don't know. I was just worried. You seemed sad earlier."

She smiled. "Well...I just don't want Red to be angry. It wasn't as though I wanted him to completely leave..."

"You just wanted to have feet."

She giggled. "Yeah, that's it."

He laughed and swung his legs onto the bed. Moving his hands behind his head, he leaned against the headboard of her bed. She glanced up at him. "I know, I know, I said we needed to get to sleep early, but I just wanted to talk." He said smiling.

"About what?"

He shrugged. "Dunno...Well...Have you had any bad dreams lately?"

She shook her head. "No, and I want to keep it that way...I..."

"What would you do if I had to leave you?"

She sat up. "What? What do you mean?"

"What would you do if I had to leave you?" He asked again, this time more firmly.

She clutched the covers with a trembling hand. "I-I don't know..." She looked up, fighting the urge to cry. "Are...you leaving me?"

He turned his gaze from her and stared out of the windows. "I don't know what's going to happen in Drogen."

"What do you mean? I don't understand, Ryu..."

He took his arms from behind him and turned to her, grasping her bare shoulders. She stared up into his eyes and surprisingly, did not blush. She was too scared. "Promise me, if I have to leave, you won't follow."

"What...?"

He gripped her more firmly. "I mean it. Promise me, Nina." He said sharply.

She felt tears come to her eyes. "I...I can't leave you, Ryu! You're the...only thing I have..."

His look softened and he lifted one of the hands to her cheek, brushing his fingers over it gently. "Please...promise me..."

She shook her head. "No! I can't do it! I can't...." Before she knew what she was doing, her arms were around his neck and she was sobbing.

"Nina...I..."

She buried her head in his chest and grasped the back of his shirt tight in her tiny fists. "Where would I go, Ryu? You know you're the only person I can trust...Why would you want to leave...? You know I can't do this on my own...Don't leave me alone...Why...why would you leave me alone again...."

He leaned down. "Shh...shh...It wouldn't be because I wanted to...I promise you..."

"Then why? Why would you...?"

"It might become more dangerous...I don't want you to get hurt."

She pulled herself away and sniffed. "I don't care if I get hurt! As long as I'm fighting along side you...!" Her eyes widened as his hand moved back to grasp the back of her head. He pulled her forward and rested his cheek on her tear covered one.

She reached up to touch him, but he caught her hand in his, intertwining his fingers with hers. "Nina...please don't cry. I can't stand it..." He breathed into her ear.

"Ryu...I..."

He moved the hand holding hers to her lips. "Shh...Please...just don't say anything..."

She closed her eyes and let him lean on her. She didn't know why she did. Maybe because she never wanted to leave him. Maybe her heart was frightened. She had never been so scared in her life. Losing her mother, losing her home, losing her status...was nothing compared to losing Ryu. He was her only hope, her only source of comfort. There was nothing that could replace him, and she damn well wasn't going to let him leave. He meant too much...and it took her until now to realize this.

She didn't know how much time had passed, how long he sat, face against hers, arms wrapped around her, but before she knew it, she drifted off into a dreamless sleep. For once, she wasn't plagued with dragons or Mikhal...only the sweet sound of Ryu's breathing on her ear. For once...she was happy.



Note: Okay, that was my longest chapter...If you guys don't see an update for a few weeks, I'm sorry...I'm going to try my hardest to keep it up...! Thanks darkdragoncrystal for reading this for me, and Natalie...all this romance is for you b/c you wouldn't shut up about it, lol. You happy, now? ^.~