Soaring on Wings
Chapter 3: In which a war seems inevitable…
By: RobinNAmon
Author's Note, Beginning: Where oh where has Becky been?! Sorry guys, I got really busy with school, family, etc. Sometimes I remember my fan fictions, and sometimes I don't. If you're reading this now, and you read my story around when I first published it, thank you for sticking by me! I realize it's hard to keep up with someone's story if they rarely update :P. Hehe. Well enjoy chapter three (or well… four, if you'd like to say it that way lol), and make sure to read the AN at the bottom. Catch you readers later!
Disclaimer: The book, Howl's Moving Castle, is written by Diana Wynne Jones (a simply marvelous writer, if I do say so myself!). The movie, Howl's Moving Castle directed by Hayao Miyazaki, is based off of Mrs. Jones' book, but the two aren't one in the same. All of the characters from the book (and movie) are copyrighted to their respective authors/creators. (What imagination those people have, you know ;)!) Any new character names I create for my story belong to me, Becky, aka RobinNAmon. Please keep these copyrights in mind :D!
xXx
"It's nice to see you as well, Suliman." Howl politely said with a curt bow.
"I assume you aren't here for chit-chat. Sit down, and we'll discuss what you have in mind."
Howl took that as his cue to take a seat on the beautiful hand-carved chair.
"You assumed correctly, as usual. I'm here in regards to the impending war." Howl said in a matter-of-fact tone.
The Royal Wizard paused before speaking, as if he were in deep thought. He replied,
"Impending war? I wouldn't put it that way. Bapin and Cicern have encroached upon our nation's boundaries, and we have been working to ensure that their strife does not involve our nation. The two are advanced magic-wielding nations. We don't have many wizards and witches here who can stand up against their magic. You, on the other hand, are a good pupil of mine, but you shouldn't get too involved with the government, Howl. Unless you happen to one day take my place as Royal Wizard, I will see to it that you do not meddle in our affairs. If we need your help, we'll ask for it."
"You're gravely mistaken, Suliman. Some people in the community who are familiar with magic are becoming aware of the situation. If you aren't careful, word will get out. And as for the Royal Wizard position, I've told you before: I do not want to be put in your will as your heir. I have a family to take care of, not a nation to take care of. I'm fine being a part of something, not managing it." Howl directed his words at the Royal Wizard.
"Believe what you wish, Howl. You were always my stubborn student. However, do not get caught up in the situation, or I may have to deal with you. If you care so much for your family, then go home now and let us deal with the war, not you." Wizard Suliman was beginning to sound irritated at Howl's obstinacy.
"As you wish, Sir. But remember this: If the war does happen, don't say I didn't warn you. The demons sealed in the vast regions of the Twilight Gate are beginning to get restless. They will stop at nothing to break through into the human world. Good day." Howl stated before bowing and letting a servant escort him out of the Wizard's chambers.
xXx
Howl was exhausted. He obviously was getting dark circles under his eyes. Sleep deprivation… He told himself.
xXx
Sophie was beginning to get a bit irritated with Howl. Not only did he leave after she yelled at him the day before, but he hasn't returned since. It's already seven at night. Markl and the Witch of the Waste have headed off to bed, along with Heen at her side. Calcifer is taking a light nap. It's just me right now. Oh, Howl, please come back. Please… Sophie mused.
While cleaning the dishes from dinner, Sophie heard the panel on the door flick to blue, indicating Howl was returning from Kingsbury. The young woman heard him open the door and when she saw him walk in with tired eyes, she immediately ran to him and embraced him.
xXx
A middle-aged man, looking to be in his mid-forties, walked into the chambers of Royal Wizard Suliman and spoke to the form in the royal and embellished chair,
"You say Howl is becoming irrational and won't stop his prying?"
"Indeed. It seems he knows more than he's letting on. King, he also knows that the war is inevitable right now. Although Howl was never one for gossip, we shouldn't trust him with such inside information. However, he may prove to be an asset during the war." The Royal Wizard replied.
"That is true. Whether he can defend against the demons or not, that is the true question. Time will tell, Suliman. For now, keep me posted. You know what to do if he begins sounding too conspicuous. For now, have a good rest." And with that, the King of Ingary walked off, containing a smug and confident look on his face.
xXx
Author's Note, End: Woo. A chapter after months! Haha . R&R if you will. Hope you all had a good holiday and New Year. Welcome to 2008: