AN: Another Chapter for you lovely people. This chapter started out quite a bit weird, sorry about that. I blame early morning writing at work for that one. That was quite a bit faster than I thought, and it is not quite as long as the last couple of chapters, but oh well. A small price to pay when you have to force your brain to work it's magic. I was also thinking about adding in little snippets with Queen Brahne in the chapters. Not long scene, just peppering the story with them from now on to give you an idea of what is going on, on both ends. Tell me what you think of the idea.
Disclaimer: I only own Arathnia, and the characters from there. I do not own Escaflowne, even though I wish I did.
The Past, Future, and Somewhere in Between
Chapter 17: Homeward Bound
Two days passed by without much event. Plans to leave the holy land were placed on hold until Van's leg healed sufficiently. His other wounds were purely superficial. It was the burn on his leg that was most troublesome. While the ointment the Priestess' had given the raven-haired king seemed to be speeding up the healing process, it was still taking too long. At least in Van's opinion. With his limited mobility, he spent most of his time in the temple's library studying various volumes on various creatures scattered across Gaea. It was a subject he found most interesting. This helped keep his mind occupied when he lacked company. This also helped him rest his leg, which also hastened his recovery. He could put very little weight on it without either searing pain or the muscle shaking and buckling underneath him. That strange blue fire was definitely more potent than that of regular flames. The nasty burn was large, deep, and still pulsed and throbbed painfully beneath the bandages.
Galaxia had yet to regain consciousness from her strange encounter with the wyvern. The venom had ravaged her system leaving her in a very fragile state. Though her body responded will to the treatment, it was hard to determine her true condition. She was kept isolated, away from prying eyes. Her only visitors were Folken, Tarnum and the priestess' caring for the ill woman.
To everyone's surprise, the forest girl Sannah, remained in the valley with them. She was welcomed with open arms much as their group had been. Her small and tattered dress had been tossed aside and the priestess' had clothed her in a more fitting garment. A navy blue dress that a just a tad bit large on her to allow for some growing room. The girl seemed pleased and very thankful for this. The holy land seemed spark the young girl's curiosity as well as the people within. She seemed especially intrigued by General Avanon's far-fetched tales of distant and far away lands. She always listened intently, remaining silent until the tale was finished. Her charm seemed to draw people in and their group was quick to trust the cheerful young girl. The Azure Dragon, Aza, remained loyally at her side. He kept a close watch on the young Draconian girl as she mingled and socialized with the strangers from other lands. It seemed the dragon's trust was not as forth coming as his young companion.
It was on the second evening when they received some bad news. Word had spread around the countryside that a warrant had been issued for Van's arrest and a bounty placed upon his head. It was official. He was a fugitive in the kingdom of Arathnia. His sister nation. Freya had received word of the decree straight from Terra. What that message had detailed was not made public knowledge. She paid it no mind and encouraged others to follow her example. The urgency of the Fanelian Envoy's departure was apparent. Everyone seemed to be on edge, especially Van. He knew that it was only a matter of time before Queen Brahne would come for him. He did not want to be here when she did, but he was in no condition to travel on foot. Their options were limited and their time was running out, and fast.
It was in the wee hours of the morning of the third day when finally, Galaxia awoke from her poison induced coma.
She looked up at the ceiling in confusion. The world was hazy and her vision blurred. Weak and groggy, she pulled herself up and climbed out of the bed. Her body felt heavy. Her legs folded beneath her weight. She quickly grabbed onto the bedpost to keep herself upright. She let out a sigh of annoyance. Using the bed as support, she slowly made her way towards the closed door. Her unsteady legs shook as she walked threatening to give out under her.
"Where are you going?"
Galaxia jumped in surprise whirling around to locate the source of the voice. She lost her balance becoming dizzy from the sudden movement. She started to tumble forward when she felt strong arms encircle her waist to steady her. "Easy, you are in co condition to go walking around just yet," a deep, soft masculine voice whispered in her ear.
She placed the back of her hand against her forehead feeling the thin sheet of sweat coating her skin. She felt really warm. "Folken?" She said with a questioning tone to her voice. Her voice was gritty. Hoarse.
He nodded lifting her up and carrying her back to the bed, "You need to rest," He informed her.
She looked around the room, closing her eyes as it began to spin again. She felt herself being lowered onto the soft mattress. "Where am I?" She asked with a small groan at the sudden pressure on her back. It was a sharp pain that she had failed to notice before.
"We are still in Caladonna," He reassured her reaching out and tucking her hair behind her ears. "You were poisoned," He informed her as he sat down on the edge of the bed side her.
Galaxia nodded slowly before opening her eyes again. Her mind was still foggy, but she could understand what he was saying. "I know," She replied tiredly. She inhaled deeply before parting her lips to speak again. "I was attacked, by a Wyvern," She stated bringing her hand up to her forehead, wiping the small amount of sweat from her brow. Something about that simple statement seemed the clear the fog from her mind allowing her to think more clearly. Her eyes widened and despite the sharp pain that rippled through her back, she bolted up into a sitting position. "Agrael," She gasped.
Folken placed a hand on her shoulder pushing lightly to encourage her to lie back down. She resisted, glaring at her male counterpart. However, he did not cease the action. "What about Agrael?" He asked cautiously. He had never liked the man. Something about him seemed eerily familiar. It made his skin crawl with disgust. His repugnant lack of morality and complete disregard to anyone made him questions the motives of his position. Queen Brahne always kept the armoured warrior close at hand and for what reasons he dared not ask.
"He raises strange beasts such as wyverns," She stated finally summoning up enough strength to shove his hand from her shoulder. "Queen Brahne was behind this," She continued meaning the revelation to be more for herself than for Folken.
He nodded in agreement, "I know."
Her eyes widened as her mind began to recall the events that led to her collapse in the field. "I lost everything," She stated looking down at her hands. She gaped at them, turning them over inspecting the cleanliness of them. However, that is now what she could see. All she saw was blood staining her skin. The blood of all that had fallen by her hand for the sake of the cold-hearted snake that she had once had the gall to call her aunt. She clenched them angrily and punched the blankets in frustration.
Folken watched her with curiosity feeling helpless at soothing the emotions that plagued her. He could sense her rage, hurt, fear, and self-loathing, but he could neither find a cause or a way a conclusion to her suffering. "What do you mean by that? What happened," he asked after a short moment.
She growled her eyes shifting to that bright red that appeared when her anger consumed her. "She took it all away. All because of her stupid vendetta against Fanelia," She hissed through her tightly clenched teeth. "That wretched woman. I hate her," She spat with malice.
Confused washed over his face as half of her statements failed to make sense to him. "Slow down," He said resting his hand on her knee, squeezing it gently as a sign of support. "Tell me what happened Galaxia."
"I gave up my country, my position, my life, everything!" She ranted slamming her fits against the mattress beside her as the full weight of the events crashed down upon her. Her emotions were shifted back and forth so rapidly. One moment she was angry, next mortified, and then the next, depressed. She closed her eyes tightly taking a deep breath to regain control of herself. She blamed it all on the fever from the exposure of the poison. "All for the aide of your pig-headed brother," She breathed out slowly as she felt herself calming down.
Folken frowned at this, "He never...I never asked you to do that."
She shook her head, "I did it for you, not for them," She clarified opening her eyes. "It appears we are in the same boat now love. Queen Brahne has no use for either us anymore," She mused resting her hand on top of his, lacing her fingers in between his. Her eyes had returned to their natural colour indicating her new found sense of calm. "She'll be coming for us soon."
"Do you have any idea what she wants with Van?" He asked softly reaching out and tucking same stray strands of hair behind her ears. He squeezed her hand gently as a sign of support.
"She wants to reunite the Dragon clans. Arathnia, Zaibach, and Fanelia," She explained leaning back against the pillows suddenly exhausted. "Van is the only one standing in her way. With him out of the picture, she has Fanelia in her hands and can join all three nations into one massive country," She continued with a small yawn. "Controlling a large portion of Gaea."
Folken pressed a finger to her lips to silence her. "Shhh, rest now. We can talk about this later," He stated rising from the bed. He turned and pulled the blanket over her before leaning down and placing a gentle kiss on her forehead.
She nodded as her eyes drooped. Within moments, the blonde woman was asleep. Folken sighed running his metal hand through his hair. There were so many questions, so many theories running through his mind. The most prominent being Queen Brahne's impending arrival. Walking over to the door, he turned to look back at her. She looked so young and innocent resting against the pure white pillows. He couldn't help the sense of peace that seemed to fill him when she was around. He shook his head, clearing these thoughts from his mind, as he opened the door. Silently, he headed out of the small room. There was only one person who he knew could aide him in devising some sort of stratagem. He needed to talk to Freya.
"Van?"
Van lifted his head from the book he was currently engrossed in. He was surprised when he met crimson eyes. It was Sannah who stood at the door. She hesitantly opened the door more and took a step inside. With the dark navy coloured dress that she wore the more she seemed to resemble his mother. He shook his head clearing the thoughts away. "What do you want?" He asked turning his attention back to the book clutched in his hands.
Sannah stepped further into the room walking towards him slowly, almost cautiously. "I just, wanted to see how you were doing," She said stopping barely a foot from him. She stood on her tip toes and peered over to look at the book he was reading.
Van cast a sideways glance at the girl noticing her lack of boundaries. She did not seem to understand the concept of personal space. He shifted uncomfortably under her gaze. As he did so, his leg throbbed intensely in rebellion. Outwardly, he showed no signs of the discomfort. "I'm fine," He grunted out as a response. He silently wished for the irritating young girl to leave so that he could be left in peace. Since their return to the holy land, she had not spoken to him or been alone with him. It seemed as if there was a thick tension between them.
Sannah rolled her eyes at his reply. Instead of leaving or speaking, she sunk back down onto her heels. Keeping one eye on the preoccupied king, she leaned forward resting her hand on the deep burn on his leg. With little effort, she leaned her body weight onto the injury. Van reacted instantly. He cried out in pain, tossing the book aside. It clattered to the floor as he reached out grabbing her wrist tightly in his grasp. She gasped in surprise but remained calm as she removed the pressure. "You don't seem fine to me," She stated smugly, ignoring the pain in her wrist from his vice-like grip.
He scowled releasing his hold on her and pushing her back with a small grunt. She stumbled back, but easily caught her balance. "Get out," He snarled through gritted teeth. The ache in his leg has intensified adding an intense stabbing sensation that ran deep down almost to the bone. All the dark haired girl had done was make his pain even more insufferable.
She rolled her eyes at him and reached into the pocket hidden in the folds of the simple dress. Clutched in her small hands were small white and pale blue blossoms. Their odour was strong and very sweet. Not sickly sweet like that of the Faylene flowers, but sweet still and faintly minty. In the dim light of the library, they seemed to sparkle as if they were made of ice. She held them out to him. "Here, these will help," She stated offering the young king an apologetic smile.
He eyes the blooms suspiciously unsure of whether to accept her offering. "And how will these help?" He asked raising an eyebrow.
Without a response, she shifted towards the small table next to the chair he was sat upon. She knelt down reaching out to grab the mortar and pestle that rested on the table top. It was one that the priestess' had been using to crush the herbs necessary for his ointment. Next to it, sat the bowl of the pale green substance. He watched the forest dweller curiously as she stripped the blooms from their stems and tossed them into the mortar. She then began to crush the tiny brittle flowers into a fine powder. Once that task was completed, she poured the light blue concoction into the burn ointment. She swirled the stirring stick around, mixing the powder in thoroughly. Once she was finished, she shuffled over to him. She knelt before him gingerly reaching out to remove the bandaged from his injury.
He watched her in silence. The only sound he uttered was a hiss of pain as the air hit the exposed injury. The air just seemed to increase his pain. However, Sannah did not stop of falter her ministrations. She dipped her fingers into the ointment and proceeded to coat the reddish-black flesh of the wound with the newly improved substance. Nothing changed at first. After a moment, a tingling sensation travelled through his body and the wound began to go numb. He felt the tension leave his body as the pain disappeared completely. He could not help the satisfied moan that slipped past his lips as the medicine worked it's magic.
Sannah giggled at his reaction, pleased with her handiwork. She reached to grab fresh bandages from the basket on the table. "How do you feel now?" She asked curiously.
Contently, he sighed. "Much better," He confirmed with a nod. His speech came out as more of a mumble. "What were those?" He asked brushing his hair from his eyes.
"Frost cap," She answered without missing a beat. "Azure Dragon's fire burns twice as hot as regular fire does," She began as she tightly wrapped his injured leg. "It burns all the way down to your bones damaging your muscle function, it is almost like a paralysing effect," She explained tying the bandage almost expertly. "Frost cap is the only thing that helps."
He was about to question her knowledge when he spotted a dark scar on her shoulder. A burn scar. He could only guess she possessed a similar experience as his. "Why are you helping me?" He asked tilting his head to the side slightly. Just when he thought he had her figured out, she had surprised him.
Sannah leaned back onto the balls of her feet. She tucked her hair behind her ears as she dropped her gaze to the floor. "I wanted to apologize," She began while her fingers played with the skirt of her dress. "I think we got off on the wrong foot and I was hoping that we could be friends." However, her speech did not end there. Before he could reply she began to talk again, only this time it was more of a nervous ramble. "I don't trust people very easy," She admitted biting her bottom lip. "The people I have met have only tried to hurt me or Aza. I don't have time to think before reacting. I saw you with your sword and I panicked," She confessed tears welling up in her scarlet eyes. She blinked glancing up at the ceiling to keep them at bay.
Van nodded in understanding feeling slightly uncomfortable with the strange girl near tears. "It is understandable," He acknowledge with a nod. He understood her sentiment.
She shook her head dropping her gaze to her lap, "I can't lose him," She stated her voice cracking slightly as she began to lose her composure. "I need him," She forced out before turning her head away from him as she drew a shaky breath.
The helpless and tearful expression that spread across her face did nothing but reinforce her innocence and remind him of her age. Though she maintained a tough exterior and possessed a quick temper she was still, undoubtedly, a child. A child who was scared and afraid to be alone in a world that would hate her if they knew what she was. He could see so much of himself reflected in her that he could not help but feel sympathy for her. He had been in her place once. Still, he was unsure of how to handle the situation he now found himself in. He reached out to her, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. To his complete and utter surprise, the young girl turned towards him. She lurched forward, wrapping her arms around him and burying her face into the fabric of his shirt. Confusion and uncertainty filled him as Sannah cried against him. Her body shook with silent sobs and unsteady breaths as she tried to soothe herself. Reluctantly, Van wrapped an arm around her offering her the small amount of comfort he could provide. He slowly rubbed small circles along her back for lack of a better thing to do. After a few moments, her sobs turned to sniffles and the young girl pulled away.
She wiped her red and puffy eyes a deep blush forming on her cheeks. "I'm sorry," She began sniffling again. "I didn't mean to do that," She added embarrassment evident in her expression.
Van could not help but feel rather awkward about the situation. Her strange outburst had caught him off guard. He had never like seeing girl's cry and tried to steer away from it at all costs. It made him feel very uncomfortable. "It is alright," he offered up as a response to her statement unable to come up with anything else.
She shook her head, her hair falling out of their placement behind her ears and framing her face. "It's strange," She began wiping her eyes again. "I feel drawn to you some how," She admitted, the deep blush returning to her cheeks. "Other than my mother, I have never met one of my own kind before."
That statement caught him off guard. It seemed this girl was sent just to throw him off. Bewildered, he began to rack his brain to recall a time where he could have shared such information with the adolescent. He found none. "How did you know that?" He asked suspiciously.
She blinked a few times in confusion before realization dawned on her. She bit her bottom lip and dropped her gaze to her lap. She began to play with the ends of her long hair. "Mendelev told me," She admitted after a few moments.
Van nodded, "I see," He responded politely. He would have to have a talk to his first General about disclosing personal information to strangers, Draconian or not. "Where is your mother?" He asked switching the subject off of himself. "Surely she must be worried about you."
Sannah shook her head, "My mother died when I was very young," She stated rather calmly. He was surprised at this. Moments ago she had crumbled at the mere thought of losing her dragon friend, but was completely composed when speaking of her mother. "It's just me and Aza now," She piped up when he failed to comment.
"Your brother?" Van half stated, half asked raising an eyebrow.
She nodded, "My mother raised both Aza and I. His parents are gone too," She explained shifting her position and sitting down on her bottom. She stretched her legs out in front of her to relieve the cramping muscles. "Dragons are not the solitary creatures everyone thinks they are. They desire companionship just like we do. They are not so different from us. He's always been there for me. Especially after mother died. He's my only friend," She said a small smile tugging at her lips.
Van sighed knowing her situation all too well. Merle had been his only close friend for as long as he could remember. The intense still raw pain of the family he had lost so long ago along with the desperation for companionship. A void that was only recently being filled. He couldn't help but feel a sort of kinship with the strange dark haired girl sitting on the floor in front of him. "I can relate," He replied lifting his injured leg and placing it on the floor, relieved that he felt no pain.
"Is it true that you are a king?" She asked suddenly tilting her head to the side curiously.
He nodded, "Yes. I am Van Fanel, ruler of the kingdom of Fanelia," He stated with pride. Through all the turmoil, and the war years ago, he retained the intense love for his country. That love only intensified once they he had seen the ruined kingdom returned to it's glory. That is the only good thing that he could attribute to the Queen of Arathnia. She was generous when it suited her. He felt a his stomach twist as he thought of his kingdom. 'Will I ever be able to return?' He wondered to himself feeling the pang of loss in his heart.
Sannah watched him silently, scrutinizing the expressions that fluttered across his face. She leaned forward, crossing her legs and resting her elbows on her knees. "You miss it don't you?" She asked resting her chin against the palms of her hands.
"Hmmm?" he mumbled as he snapped out of his daze.
"Fanelia," She clarified raising an eyebrow. "You miss it."
He nodded, "I do, very much in fact."
She nodded in understanding, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "It sounds wonderful. Mendelev told me all about it. I would very much like to see it," She mused leaning back and running a hand through her hair. "I have been listening closely to conversations as of late and it has come across my attention that you want to leave here and return to your country," She continued on.
"Yes, but we have no means to do so, unfortunately," He retorted glancing at the table where his royal sword lay. He would be lying if he failed to admit that he missed it's familiar weight strapped across his hips.
"I can help!" Sannah announced jumping to her feet nearly tripping over her dress in her eagerness. Her face flushed with embarrassment but quickly managed to compose herself.
Van eyed her curiously. This girl seemed to be full of surprises. "How so?" He asked crossing his arms over his chest and leaning back against the chair.
She look up at him in surprise. She had not anticipated that he would be so willing to entertain her idea. She shook her head to rid herself of these thoughts and toughened her resolve. "There is a small airship port not too far from here," She began clasping her hands together behind her back. "It's poorly guarded with stupid and relatively fat men. If we play it right, we could go in and steal and airship to get you and the others home," was her swift conclusion.
Van scratched his chin as he carefully considered her rather outrageous suggestion. "It sounds appealing, but I am not sure if it is the best of ideas," He admitted, his eyebrows furrowing together in thought as his mind toyed with the idea. "We do not know how to get to this town."
"That won't be a problem," Sannah stated with certainty. "I know this land better than anyone. I could lead them there myself, if you would permit it," She offered taking a step forward.
Skepticism filled his expression as he looked her up and down. "While I have confidence in your knowledge of the forest and it's inhabitants," He began speaking in a formal and authoritative manner. "I am just not sure that it would be the wisest of ideas. You are still a child."
She snorted at his assumptions and dismissive attitude. Yes, she was technically a child, but she knew the forest more than anyone else. There was no possible way that she would lose her way now. She never had before. "I insist," She began again taking another step towards him. "Consider it the terms of my apology. I will do this for you, and you will forgive me for nearly chopping off your head," She stated with a curt nod, placing her hands on her hips.
"But I have already forgiven you for that," He reminded her refraining from releasing the chuckle that formed in his throat from her frustrated expression.
"Please, I just...I wanna help," She rambled her tone becoming softer. "I know it's not much, but my sense of direction is the only tool I have that could be of use to you."
He let out a sigh of defeat, "Alright Sannah, I'll accept your offer but on my terms."
She nodded, "Of course your majesty."
Van snorted at the title, "There is no need for that," He replied with a grunt as he pushed himself up off of the chair to stand. His injured leg shook and there was a small pinching sensation, but nothing more. He was relieved. "What I want you to do is go to General Avanon, or Mendelev, and tell him of your plan. Tell him that I gave him permission to lead a team to this airship port. I do not want a full frontal assault. I want you to sneak in. With your self proclaimed navigational skills, I assume that will be no trouble."
She shook her head, "Easy as pie," She stated with a smile.
He nodded, "Good, but I want one more thing. Bring Aza with you," He ordered flatly. "If the need arises, he can be there to protect and defend you."
"Understood," She exclaimed saluting him. She was pleased that he had caved to her will so easily. Before he could dismiss her, she turned and bounded towards the door eager to embark on her mission.
"And Sannah," Van piped up as she reached the heavy wooden door. She turned to look at him. "Have you truly forgiven me?" He asked her retreating form.
She turned back nodding, "Yes, but Aza might not be so forgiving. Dragon's never forget," She added tapping her temple before exiting the library and disappearing down the hall.
Sannah was true to her word. As instructed, the dark haired youth sought of General Avanon with her elaborate plan and the permission she had ascertained from her conversation with Van. Understanding the nearly dire nature of their situation, the General immediately sprang into action at the suggestion. He had grown tired of sitting around helpless while others plotted their demise. He informed Allen of his intentions regarding it as an order from his king, leaving out that it had been Sannah's suggestion. Reluctantly, the knight agreed to this rather bold change in tactic. Their crew were already fugitives in the kingdom of Arathnia, what more harm could come to them should they manage to pull off the heist.
It took nearly an hour to assemble a team for the mission, but once the decision was made, they were off. Their crew consisted of Allen, his men, Mendelev Avanon, and their appointed guide Sannah. Van had insisted upon joining them, the frost cap working wonders on his damaged leg, however the combined efforts of Allen, Hitomi and Mendelev convinced him otherwise. Someone needed to oversee the preparations for their departure. Allen found himself presently surprised by how well the young adolescent girl handled herself and her task. She always seemed to know exactly where she was going despite the lack of distinguished landmarks or a map. Her sense of direction was astounding. Nothing seemed to disturb her or break her concentration. Not even the rusting of the foliage around them as unknown creature moved through the thicket of the forest. Every so often, she would halt her steps closing her eyes softly and inhale the fresh scent of the forest. She would remain stopped for a few moments before pointing and heading forward in that direction.
It was nightfall before their motley crew reached the boarders of the small port town. This worked out to their advantage. There were four hangers, each guarded by three or four men. There was a dining hall next to a barracks which more than likely housed the guards while they traded shifts. A large store room stood a air distance away from the barracks. It was more than likely that this structure was used to house guymelefs. A tavern sat on the farthest edge next to the smallest hangar. They remained sheltered withing the shadows of the trees surrounding three sides of the airship port. No one moved awaiting further instruction from either the Commander, the General, or their trusted navigator. Sannah turned her gaze up to the starry night sky as the men held their position.
"What do we do now Commander?" Gaddes asked in a whisper as he came up behind the Asturian knight.
Allen shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly. "It is not me you should be asking," He stated with a distinct hint of amusement clear in his tone.
"General?" Gaddes said diverting the question to the man of higher rank.
Mendelev chuckled gesturing towards the young girl in front of them. "Ask the little lady," He replied with a smirk. "She's the mastermind behind this endeavour."
"We wait," Sannah piped up not waiting to be asked. She did not bother looking at the men behind instead she inspected the small port once again before shifting her eyes back to the star, searching the skies. However, the command seemed to be met with some resistance.
"What! What are we waiting for" Reeden whispered harshly growing impatient as the adrenaline began pumping through his veins at the prospect of a fight. "We're evenly matched here boss."
This sentiment seemed to be shared by the rest of the men as they quietly voiced their own displeasure. It was believed amongst the crew that their intention was to ambush and take the small airship port by force. However, they were sadly mistaken.
Before a reply could be issued, a high pitched shriek filled the night. This caused the group to fall silent. The sky lit up as a large ball of blue flames descended and landed in the centre of the small town. The bright light of the fire illuminated the area chasing the shadows away. It was obvious that the attack was no meant to harm anyone. The large form of a dragon came into view as it whizzed past one of the hangers circling around the buildings with ease. It was Aza. He let out a deep battle cry as his hulking body glided through the air rising higher into the dark sky. The port's occupants rushed out of the barracks and abandoned their posts at the hanger doors to douse the flames. Many brandished their weapons prepared to defend their homes against their reptilian assailant.
A triumphant smile spread across Sannah's face at the chaos. She turned to face the men behind her. "Diversionary tactics," She stated proudly answering Reeden's forgotten question.
Allen looked at the her with surprise. He had not expected such a bold move from such a young uneducated girl. It was obvious from the shock also present on Mendelev's face that it even he had not suspected a thing. That left the idea of imploring the dragon's distraction to either her or to Van. He had to applaud such a well thought out plan.
Sannah crossed her arms over her chest impatiently, "What are you waiting for?" She asked tilting her head to the side. She snorted pointing to one of the four hangers. "Get what we came for, Aza can't hold their attention forever," she scolded.
Mendelev nodded in agreement her little speech pulling him out of his admiring daze. Never before had he such majesty in a creature before the large Azure Dragon. "You heard her gentlemen," He said drawing his sword and pointing towards the same hanger Sannah's finger pointed to. "Lets go and get ourselves a new airship!" He exclaimed raising the sword over his head in an effort to pump up their crew.
This tactic seemed to work when the men cried in agreement. With the order officially give, the men charged forward. They weaved through the tall grass and out of the shelter of the trees. Their first goal was easily met with no resistance. The hanger's guards had fled and were currently hurling buckets of water onto the fire, though it did no good against the searing heat. It evaporated before it could reach the base of the flames. Sannah followed after them, her bare feet slicing through the grass silently as she moved with the grace and finesse of a cat. The men wasted no time in opening the large door and giving themselves the access that they required to complete their mission.
The inside appeared much larger than the it had on the outside. The walls were advanced and were made of cold steel. The overabundance of metal gave the room a distinct chill that made them all shudder. Sheltered inside the structure were two, decent sized airships. Both were a good enough size to house all of their group and their gear without difficulty. One was rather small, and rested upon the ground. Tools and parts were strewn about the floor around it signalling it's poor state of repair. The other airship was suspended from a series of pulleys and ramps leading up to the cargo hold. It appeared clean and in good working order. It was two levelled, with two propellers on the back and one located in front. One levistone rested underneath the over extension on the first level. The back sail was attached to the rudder while the sides sails were furled at it's sides. The crew wasted no time feeling the urgency begin to climb as the guards took notice of their presence.
Allen unsheathed his sword and stood beside General Avanon facing the door. "We'll hold them off, you just worry about the ship," He called over his shoulder.
"Yes Commander," Gaddes replied to his order and followed Kio up into the cargo hold. The remainder of the crew focused on the pulleys and removing the ramps while the other two prepared the ship for travel. Hopefully their comrades could bide them enough time to complete this task.
Mendelev reached out grabbing a hold of Sannah and pulled her behind them, "Stay back little lady, go and help the others. You have no purpose in battle," He told her taking on a more balanced stance preparing himself doe the fight.
The young girl needed no further incentive. She turned and rushed into the airship without looking back. Just as she reached safety, the three guards who had been in charge of the hanger charged through the opened doors. The General and the Knight wasted no time, retaliating instantly. The sounds of battle echoed through the steel room as their blades collided.
Van had long since abandoned his chair in the library. Eager to get a move on, he instructed the few who had stayed behind to prepare their gear for their departure. It had come as a surprise to them all, but they did as they were asked. Van was anxious. The uncertainty gnawed at him. It was a blind mission that he had sent the bulk of their group on. He knew nothing of the area, the port, or what resided within the canopy of the Celestial forest. There were just too many unknowns. If they failed, they were all doomed. He knew that he had taken a risk in trusting the young Draconian girl, but sometimes risks were necessary. As king, he had learned that. He paced the cliff side outside the temple glancing up at the sky every so often hoping to see their group return and in command of a new air ship. It was taking too long.
"Van sit down," Hitomi scolded exiting the temple for what seemed like the thousandth time. "You are going to hurt yourself," She snapped dropping her bag onto the ground with the other gear that they had assembled. Freya has even been generous enough to give them some provisions for their journey. "You're leg isn't fully healed."
Van stopped his pacing and turned towards her, "I'm fine," He stated brushing off her concern. He would never admit it, but the affects of the Frost cap were beginning to wear off. He would need to re-medicate soon. "What's taking them so long," He wondered aloud.
"Do you even know where this port is?" Yukari asked joining the two with Merle and Celena at her side. "For all we know, it could take them days to get back," She continued on crossing her arms over her chest.
"Sannah said it was close," Van replied turned his gaze back up to the starry sky.
The red head scoffed, "Yeah sure, place all your trust in the twelve year old forest girl," She grumbled turning around and heading back into the temple.
"She has a point," Celena agreed taking a few steps closer to the edge of the cliff. "How can you be so sure to trust her? She could be a spy for Queen Brahne," She stated following the young king's gaze.
He turned to glare at her opening his mouth to shoot back a retort. However, before he could utter a word, a loud and triumphant roar filled the air. Immediately, Van turned his eyes to the sky once more. The instant he did blue fire lit up the sky revealing the Aza flying towards. Behind him travelling at a slower pace was a two-leveled airship. The dragon's over enthusiastic cry attracted the attention of Yukari who rushed back out of the temple her mouth dropped in disbelief. Freya and Salia joined the small group as well who were quickly followed by Folken and Galaxia with Tarnum at their heels.
"They actually pulled it off," Merle stated coming to stand beside her close friend.
"I don't believe it," both Hitomi and Yukari stated at the exact same moment.
Twenty minutes later, the crew were loading their gear into the ship that they had dubbed the Dragoon. This was due to the large role Aza played in it's capture. Without his assistance, they would not have escaped the hanger unscathed. He was their official Hero. The guards were smarter than they appeared and caught onto their trickery. Rushing at them at their full force, nearly fifteen. Realizing something was amiss, Aza descended on them and followed them into the hanger to ensure the safety of the crew inside. His sudden arrival surprised them which worked out in everyone's favour. With the airship now in their possession, the possibility of returning home to their homes lifted their spirits. This made the task of loading the ship a much more satisfying job.
Van surveyed the scene with pride. Their mission was a success and with no casualties or wounded. The risk had paid off in full. Sannah was a godsend. Without her, this would not have been possible. He was torn away from his thoughts by the presence of his brother wit Galaxia at his side.
"We are going with you," Folken stated wrapping his arm around Galaxia's waist.
"Gharza as well," She reminded them disentangling herself from Folken's arms with slight annoyance. He did not seem to grasp the concept that she was fine.
Van eyed the golden haired knight suspiciously. Despite his better judgement, he nodded gesturing them to board the aircraft. As the went to step forward, a small hand reached up and tugged at Galaxia's skirt. "I wanna go too!" Tarnum announced pouting. He did not like the prospect of her parents leaving with out him.
Galaxia knelt down so that she was at eye level with the boy. "No son," She began calmly, "Your place is here with Freya and Salia. It is too dangerous for you my love." She explained pulling him into a tight embrace. "I couldn't bare it if something happened to you."
"But you'll be back right?" Tarnum asked as his mother pulled away from him.
Folken ruffled his son's hair, "Of course we will, do not worry."
He nodded satisfied with their answer. Salia gently grabbed a hold of his arm and led him back towards the temple. He frowned looking back at his parents before following the priestess' lead. It was then that Sannah stepped forward from her place with Aza.
She twirled her long hair around her small fingers as she approached Van. She bit her bottom lip as she approached. "I was wondering, if it was alright with you, if I could come along too?" She asked. It was obvious from her body language that she was nervous.
He smiled reaching out and grabbing a hold of her wrist. "I would be honoured."
Sannah smiled broadly, her face brightening instantly. "Aza too?"
He chuckled ruffling her hair affectionately. The girl was beginning to grow on him. "Aza too," He clarified with a nod.
The girl beamed and ran off towards her dragon friend. The excitement radiating from her seemed to catch on as Aza too seemed eager to get a move on. Sannah doubled back and ran into the airship nearly bumping into Kio and Gaddes who were carrying a large crate up the ramp. Van couldn't help but chuckle at her enthusiasm. Aza stood and shook his wings however he did not move to board the craft. Instead, he walked to the edge of the cliff and sat down, curling his tail around his legs in wait. Sensing that the time was neigh, he headed towards the airship.
"Van Fanel," Freya stated reaching out to him. Van turned and walked back towards her. She closed the distance between him quickly gathering him up into her arms in a gentle embrace. "Be careful," She said pulling away with a smile. Despite all that had occurred and all that had been said, Van regarded the old, frail woman as a dear friend. She had shown them all kindness and humility that he would expect from no one else. Her kind heart was a blessing in these uncertain times. "You will always have a place here. All of you." She stated holding him at arms length.
He smiled back resting his hand over one of hers, "Thank you Freya."
"You remind me so much of your father," She mused brushing his bangs from his face. "I offer you fair warning young king," She continued tilting her head as if to lock her eyes onto his. "Queen Brahne has a nasty temper and an insatiable thirst for revenge. She lets nothing stand in the way of what she desires," She warned allowing her hands to drop from his broadening shoulders. "Tread carefully young man. You are in her sights now."
Van nodded curtly, "I will."
With that, he boarded the craft as well. It was only a few minutes later before they set sail on their journey. They would not heading straight to Fanelia, for it was too obvious. Van was certain that the Queen would be watching for him. But, they would get their soon enough. Little did he know that their future was still sown with many unfortunate and uncertain events.
AN: That took a while to pump out, but I did it without rushing it and on time. Success! Sorry if it was a little lack lustre, I was generally uninspired to write this chapter. Even so, I impressed myself. What did you think?
Next: Basram: The Land of Ice and Snow.