Martina was pleased with herself. After weeks of plotting, everything was finally coming to fruition. Finally, she would have things just as she wanted.

Darling, hold them up a bit higher.

Zangulus gave a pitiful look to Martina. Martina, dear, isn't this a bit much?

Martina burst into loud and raucous laughter. Nonsense! I did a lot of research, and those curtains are just what we need to prevent sunlight from coming in.

Zangulus gave a sigh then stood a bit taller to place the curtains higher up on the window. This would be much easier with a ladder... Is this better?

Martina clapped with delight. Perfect! Oh Darling, you're wonderful! I'll go tell the servants where to attach them later.

Zangulus gave a smile as he was finally able to set down his load. He was about to say something when a guard burst into the throne room.

Your Highness! The guard dashed up to Martina.

Martina stamped her foot. How many times must I tell you?! It's Your Most High and Mighty Queen', so get it right!

The guard bowed down as low as he could. I apologize, Your Most High and Mighty Queen, but I came to warn you that-

He was interrupted by an explosion just outside the throne room. Zangulus and Martina both jumped up in fright.

What's going on? Zangulus looked from his confused wife to the guard cringing on the floor.

The guard could only look at him in pure horror.

Another explosion rocked the castle, followed by a very irate,

Martina tried her best to regain some composure as Lina Inverse herself burst into the room. So, Lina Inverse, you have returned at last! Martina let out a laugh.

Lina glared back in anger. What's the meaning of having all your guards out to attack me?! What'd I ever do to you?!?

Gourry leaned down and whispered in her ear, causing Lina to blanch. She then shoved him aside. I meant aside from that, Gourry! She spoke in a loud whisper.

What indeed, Lina Inverse! Now that you've returned, I will at last exact my revenge upon you! Martina stood up and pointed down at Lina, who glowered back.

Cut the act, Martina. I've got some questions for you, and you'd better answer them. Lina glared at Martina as she dug a small dagger from one of her pockets. What do you know about this?

Martina gaped at it. Where did you find it?

Lina's grip on the hilt tightened. It was found in Seyruun's palace, specifically in one Princess Amelia's room.

Martina blinked on confusion. Why did she have it?

Lina began to shake with rage. Don't you get it? Someone tried to murder her with it! Did you send an assassin to kill the Seyruun royal family?!

Zangulus stepped forward in anger. How could you accuse Martina of something like that?

Martina herself slumped down onto her throne in shock, unable to answer

Gourry stepped in front of Lina, his hand on his sword hilt. Zangulus took the hint and backed down.

All I know is that someone tried to kill Amelia, and this was found at the scene. Lina spoke in a quieter tone, trying to keep herself under control.

Martina squeaked. I would never... She shook her head. That is my dagger, but it disappeared. I didn't know where it was, and I certainly have no idea how it got there. Is she...? Martina looked fearfully at Lina.

No, she's still alive. So are you telling the truth about this? If I find out you lied to me you know what I'll do to you. Lina spoke very quietly, but that made her threat all the more frightening.

Martina fell to her knees and held her hands together in a pleading manner. I'm telling the truth! I'm telling the truth!

Lina studied Martina for a moment. Zangulus and Gourry met gazes, but were both pretty much confused about just what was going on. Martina just wished that Lina would spare her.

The silence was finally broken by Lina walking back to the doors.

Lina? Where are you going? Martina asked.

To get some answers. Lina gestured for Gourry to follow.

Martina watched the two leave, thinking over all that she had just learned.

Zangulus looked worriedly at his wife.

Martina turned to her husband, fear and confusion etched on her face. Just what is going on?

(Author's notes: These past few weeks have been a bit more chaotic than usual. I wanted to have this up last Monday, but seeing as my new niece came into the world, I lost my one real day of writing. -But I got a new niece!- Things ought to be settling down this week though, so hopefully I can get my mind back on track for the next chapter.

Stay tuned! Next time, a reunion of sorts.)