Vision Of Escaflowne Fan Fiction ❯ By the Hand of Destiny: Book One; The Journey to Destiny ❯ Chapter 13; Hell Seraph Latermia ( Chapter 13 )

Chapter 13: Hell Seraph Latermia

Written by Hell

Barely an hour after my departure from the healers' ward I returned to Dalet's side, a bottle of wine in toe. The brown haired youth did not stir in that time; remaining still in the bed he lay on. As the night had progressed sleep finally claimed him I had regarded him silently. I watching as the red marks, where Dilandau's hands had been, grew darker till they merged together in a sea of black and purple bruising. My anger had grown, yet I had repressed my voice unwilling to wake Dalet; he needed all the sleep he could get before Dilandau saw him fit enough to resume training. What should be at least a good weeks healing would be made to progress hastily over the next few days. But perhaps, I thought, I could try and persuade Dilandau to allow his Slayer the recuperation he so greatly needed. I would see him later that day. I had avoided him all that morning and the current day but I knew it was inevitable that I would bump into him. I couldn't escape his wrath for much longer.

The return to my chamber had not been a pretty sight. What little furnishing I had there were now no more than scattered pieces of broken wood. The entire place was in utter disarray. Dilandau had not held back his anger concerning my dealings with Dalet; the chair and cabinet had seen the full brunt of his fury. Disregarding all that lay before me I stepped around what was left of my chamber. I had gathered my uniform together from the different corners of the room and pulled it on, taking my time to tie the fine fastenings at my sides before reattaching my daggers and strapping my overskirt and sword belt around my waist. My journey had then progressed back to the healers' ward, only stopping on the way to collect a bottle of alcohol from the kitchens. Unfortunately to my distaste, I had only been able to procure one bottle of weak white wine. Its sickly sweet aroma and consistency caused nothing but an ailing in the stomach. Dalet seemed to appreciate it far better than myself for it seemed to dull the pain raking through his bruised body. He had drank from it hastily, the liquid barely touching the sides of his mouth as he swallowed hard. I couldn't begrudge him; he had far more need of the vial wine than I did.

In his already tired and weakened state the drink seemed to aid him in his body's quest for sleep. The first clear sign of his weariness was given away by the yawn, which passed his well-defined kissable lips; I knew that from experience, lips which left imploring kisses on my own. Yet such thoughts where not needed at such times, if ever. I remember watching his deep brown eyes gradually dimming as his eyelids grew heavy and fell. I remained by the brown-haired boy's side till daybreak, regardless that during all that time he had remained in a dead sleep. Not even the noise of the ward nurse knocking over a tray of medical instruments and medicines cause him to stir in the slightest. It was to be expected though, his body obviously knew that he needed to rest and heal and the best way to do this was to sleep!

As I left the healers ward the tall Slayer, Miguel, immediately confronted me. He raked a hand through his mousy brown hair, attempting to push a certain wild lock away from his face. He failed miserably and I couldn't help but smirk.

"Lord Dilandau wishes for all Slayers to be present at the scheduled lesson. He stated quite clearly that regardless of Dalet's condition, you are to leave him and join us in training." I growled under my breath, that damn man was spoiling my plans again. I needed a stiff drink as what little foul wine I had consumed last night had not been adequate enough to sate my needs but now that would have to wait; I swore Dilandau did it on purpose. I noticed Miguel take a step back as the noise was released into the corridor. He swallowed hard as I pushed past him and I could hear the sound of his armour clicking together as he followed.

Silently I made my way to the training room where all Slayers, excluding Dalet, were gathered. To my right sat Dilandau, looking as proud and pomp as ever. However much I tried to deny it he looked totally delectable; the way he was poised with his balled fist resting just under his chin, I found myself literally removing his clothes with my eyes. As I took my place beside Chesta he followed my movements out of the corner of his eye; it was clear by the smirk on his face that he knew exactly what I had been doing.

I watched the fight between Demitri and Kuja with silent interest. It had paused upon my entrance but now proceeded at a vigorous pace. It was as I found my attention finally wavering, that I noticed the Slayer next to me attempting to glance and scrutinise the mark on my face. I turned quite sharply, my attention now solely on the youth beside me, causing him to startle and straighten in posture. His blue orbs held compassion, they did not resemble the contempt I had previously seen in Gatti's verdant ones. I knew from my weeks here that Chesta seemed to take the brunt of Dilandau abuse. I had watched many a time when he had been badly beaten by his commander for the smallest mistake whilst duelling; this skill was clearly not his forte. That was one thing I had to credit Dilandau for, he would not accept failure in any form from his men. If they did the penalty would be great.

I had moved to whisper something to the blond youth when my attention became focussed on Dilandau, as he stood silently, moving towards Kuja. The Slayer had only recently finished his battle with Demitri and was now talking to…Destiny! I hadn't even noticed the damned woman's entrance; had I become so careless. Instantly I felt anger overtake me, my gaze turning cold and cruel. The pair didn't even noticed Dilandau's approach, but I most certainly did and the gleam in his eyes showed he had something planned.

"I see I have a new Slayer to train. Come here woman." His voice had clearly shocked Destiny, yet now she seemed to be frozen to the very spot upon which she stood. Her body shook for a brief moment, a clear display of fear, before moving to return the sword she had taken, to its rightful owner. "No, with the sword; do it now!" He continued, and I sniggered under my breath at the look of horror, which adorned her face. "You are no match for any here, but I think you owe Hell a chance at you." She gaped at him in obvious panic, yet she did as ordered, entering the circle of silent Slayers. I instantly followed her lead, exiting the circle, moving away from the group and towards her, a sinister smile tugging at my lips. I took my stance; rapier raised ready to begin and watched as Destiny did the same with Kuja's much larger sword. Her inexperience was clear by the way that she held the blade in both hands. It shook violent in her hold; the woman could hardly hold it up. With little to no effort I hit the blade knocking the point back down to the floor. I watched her flinch, anticipating the strike I would now give her but I was enjoying the way I was belittling her in front of the others to end it so soon. Again she attempted to raise the blade and once again I struck it sending the point to the floor. To my hidden amazement her previously submissive position changed quite suddenly a slow smile spreading across her once panic stricken face. Her eyes flashed with a new found strength as she raised the sword one handed. She moved it in a smooth circle in front of her and as she charged I knew instantly that something was amiss.

Our swords clashed together with a magnitude of metal sparks, yet this time hers did not point towards the floor nor did I hold back my strength. My own eyes danced with enjoyment as she countered my moves. I was no fool; I had fought with Kuja enough times to tell that these skills she possessed were his. The way she moved, placing her left foot behind her to balance her weight before lunging forward to strike, the elegance and expertise in the fashion she did so, the sheer style in which she used her sword; they all belonged to Kuja. It was almost as if she had stolen them from him. But this did not faze me in the slightest; I had fought the Slayer enough times to know that I was still the better fighter of the two of us. She had taken Kuja's style and skills and like the thief she was I would make her pay for it. Yet somewhere deep inside I knew that this battle could have been far different. Destiny could have acquired her ability from Dilandau; if she had I was unsure how the battle would have finished. As it was it ended as it rightfully should, with Destiny lying on the floor and my blades tip pushed directly against her neck.

"Go ahead," the woman below me spoke boldly, "You won't be slated till you draw blood." I grinned at her and pulled away slightly. "The assassin in you needs to be satisfied." I narrowed my eyes at her whispered words and drew the blade slowly across Destiny's throat until a line of deep crimson appeared. I then released her, replacing my weapon to its rightful place at my side. "Nothing damaged, it shouldn't even leave much of a scar." I chided as I turned and walked away. 'Till another time, Destiny.' I murmured to myself as I departed from the room, not waiting to be dismissed and ignoring any order from Dilandau to remain. 'For this is far from over.'

From the fights end I did not leave the training room, I lingered against its door and watched the progressing scene going on inside its confines. I almost pitied Destiny, for a brief moment if that, yet it was the elfin man whom I truly pitied; the poor man didn't seem to be able to do anything right recently. I remained this way until Destiny had been escorted away by Kuja, both followed in close pursuit by two guards. It was at this time that I too decided to depart and as I did so I left the training room with a great deal on my mind. My first action was to find something to drink, preferably something strong. Finding two large bottles of the strongest Ardrillian wine in the Vione fulfilled this need. Their owner had good taste; their fermentation had been that of twelve years. I was beyond caring that they were from Dilandau's own personal supplies.

I recall my mother telling me long ago that alcohol could cure all your woes, now normally I would have disagreed with her but today I full heartily agreed. Glass after glass of wine had been poured and drunk as I sat in self-pity over the turn of events that had occurred in a few short weeks. Most of it was sat pondering over the control Dilandau was attempting to gain over me. Every time I thought about it the glass, which had held my drink, was sent crashing against my chamber wall. At that current time the remnants four lay shattered, crimson staining the floor. He was winning and I wasn't sure what to do about it. I couldn't leave my problems behind me by fleeing from the Vione; I wasn't that much of a coward. I had to stand my ground with Dilandau and show him that I wasn't his to toy with. But if I did stand up to him who was to say that it wouldn't be me in the healers' ward. I truly didn't know what he was capable of. The irony of this life I was leading struck me as being thoroughly frustrating. How could the damned man give me so much pleasure yet accompany it with such volumes of pain. If I was truly honest with myself I didn't think I could win this fight.

Drowsily my head lolled back against my chair as I stared at the ceiling in thoughtful contemplation. As I did I heard the door to my room creek and my head snapped towards the visitor. I grinned widely as Caz stared around the room regarding the smashed glass before stooping to the ground.

"Leave it, Caz." I said a little bit more roughly than intended. "Let some other poor sod clear it away. I only ever seem to see you doing things around here." She nodded and stood again.

"I came to see if you required anything Lady Hell." she politely enquired. I regarded her sweet smile for a fleeting moment before nodding absentmindedly; it seemed that the drink I had consumed was finally taking effect.

"I require everything and yet nothing." I chuckled, as if my words had any real meaning, before raising a hand to my chin thoughtfully. "A bath would be greatly welcome. I suppose that is impossibly though but I do hate those unsightly showering cubicles." I continued dreamily before releasing a loud sigh.

"If I may speak freely… Lord Dilandau has a bathing area. You could use that… I could..."

"Yes please." I replied, waving my hand in a dismissive manor and watched as she hurried out of the room.

I returned my gaze to the ceiling as I raised my glass to my lips to drink the rich wine, my mind slowly recalling past events; ones that had stuck in my memory. I soon found myself completely mesmerised by the drab ceiling surfaces, gradually allowing my eyes to travel down the cold, grey walls of my chamber.

My main thought was that of my mentor, not my mother but the man who had taken me from her at an early age. Dilandau had acted so similarly to him the other night it was uncanny. My memories of him were always associated with that of something unpleasant although not because of his looks. On the contrary if I look back I recall him being quite a striking man but he had such a short temper and was always ready and willing to dish out punishment whenever and however he wanted. This taught me at an early age that failure was not acceptable.

Years he put me through hell and yet I remained by his side, he was after all, all I had. Perhaps he decided I should live up to my namesake. His attention, however abusive and breaking caused me to grow somewhat dependant on his company; till that is when I reached an age where he wasn't the only one with sordid intentions towards me. Till a time when I was eligible to have interests from other men and I knew I had the right to choose and decided to do something about it.

I had sworn from a young age that I would never let another man deal with me in such a way as my mentor had. I had already learnt one of men's great weaknesses and I planned to use it to my advantage. A child, that was all I was and yet in the short years leading to my adult hood I had been abused physically and mentally on a regular basis, become a trained assassin capable of killing, maiming and tutoring others to follow in my trade. I found it quite remarkable that I managed to keep my sanity during such a time, unlike others that had been completely broken. I had forced those memories to the deep recesses of my mind hopefully to never be unlocked.

Once again my thoughts returned to Dilandau, so similar to my abuser yet secretly I welcomed whatever he was willing to give me. The previous night, when I had been his bedfellow, had been completely exhilarating; if not just a little frightening. I had loved every minute; revelling in the ecstasy he brought me to with such ease. I hated myself for it. Just the thought of it, of him, sent shivers down my spine. However hard I tried poor Dalet sparked little response from me, even after my relations with him the previous day.

In all my dealings with men in my short life only two others had ever managed to get me into this state but never to this extent.

I was brought quite suddenly out of my thoughts by the creaking of hinges as my door was pushed open. A small sighed passed my lips before I raised my glass to my lips.

"Thank you, Caz," I spoke before she could utter a word. "I'll be with you presently, that is if you wouldn't mind helping me."

"With what would you like that girl to help you with?" The figure by the door spoke. My eyes glanced up and stared at the man clad in only pants and shirt. He had been training, releasing some built up tension no doubt and the splatter of blood across his cheek showed that some unfortunate soul had suffered under his wrath. My eyes ran over his washboard body taking in the sheen of sweat gleaming on his chest and my mind began to swarm with unworthy thoughts. "It wouldn't have anything to do with my bathing pool being filled would it? If so you don't need Caz's help to clean, not with me here!"

"Tell me, Dilandau, when you look at me what do you see?" I asked, my hand moved down my form in a suggestive manor and I watched his magenta orbs sparkle as he ran his tongue across his lips.

"I see a great deal of things." He countered lightly. "What do you think I see?"

"Dilandau whether you believe it or not you see me as your whore. You give me whatever you deem fit and expect me to accept it. I'm not one of your servant girls who lets you lift her skirt every chance you get and becomes insanely jealous if you do the same to another maid; I am far above that." I replied warningly, my voice never wavering as I spoke, regardless of the amount of wine I had supped. "If you do intend to sleep with other women that is fine, just do not expect me to become celibate for all but you. There are plenty of able men on this ship; no doubt one or two will please me. You may have your men terrified of your wrath but carnal pleasure will always overpower loyalty. You have already witnessed that with Dalet. A bit of variety never did anyone harm and even if there is not anyone suitable I can quite easily please myself." I watched with smug satisfaction as Dilandau's face twitched ever so slightly in aggravation and his eyes seemed to darken as he made his way towards me. "In truth I'm not asking much of you. I only ask that if you chose to continue being my bed mate you would be courteous enough to not sleep with anyone else, or if you chose to decline my offer at least do with a bit more tactful discretion."

"So you were jealous." He spoke in triumph his irritated look completely replaced.

"As I said before it is up to you what you do but if you are free to sleep with who you want do not criticise me or assault my partners in a fit of jealousy, such as yesterdays occurrence."

"Such as what occurrence, Hell?" Came his smarmy reply.

"As in the throttling you gave Dalet, the poor boy can hardly talk." I seemed to sober up remarkably quickly and my irritation was clearly audible as I spoke, my tone growing louder and harsher as I recalled the previous days events.

"Well he shouldn't have touched what wasn't his." Dilandau said sharply as he stopped in front of me.

"I am no ones property, Dilandau. I do whatever I please, at whatever cost. If I limit myself to one person it is of my own volition, not theirs." I breathed deeply calming myself of any anger building in me. Finally satisfied that I had made my point I placed my empty glass onto the table, pulling my armour over my training outfit and stood facing him. "Take as long as you like but while you are thinking I'll leave and have some fun and this time be polite enough to knock." I chuckled flicking my hair over my shoulders. Without warning his hands shot out, latching hold of my shoulders and preventing me from moving.

"You will not lie with anyone but me!" He responded coldly, his grip tightening and I couldn't help but wince in pain. Slowly he edged me back, causing me to fall into the chair I had previously occupied. He followed, straddling me as a hand ran behind him and up my thigh, the other settling on my waist to begin its slow accent upwards. I reacted instantly; my own hand came down to prevent his from moving any further.

"Is this your answer?" I murmured as he leaned forward, his face devoid of emotion but his eyes danced with the emotions, which told all that his face would not. His hand reached the apex of my thigh and he pressed his lower half against my own. His head lowered and leaned against my neck, pulling himself against me further. "I don't like to tie myself down to anyone," I murmured thoughtfully, "So why should I limit myself to only you?

"I can please you far more than any other!" he grinned as he pushed the armour from my shoulders and ran his hands down them. "Tell me what did you think you where doing, bedding one of my men?" he asked, a smirk on his face. "Tell me in all honesty did he please you?" I sighed heavily remembering my time with Dalet.

"At least he didn't treat me like a possession." I finally answered sullenly.

"You didn't answer my question, Hell. Whom would you have preferred?" he chuckled lightly.

"Why do you want to know? Would you get off on the fact that I may prefer having you to any other? What am I saying? Of course you would, any man would. Fine then, I see little point in hiding it. Yes, though I loathe to admit it, you were better." His grin widened and his hand reached up to beginning to untie the lacing holding my shirt together. Hastily I pushed myself up out of the chair, swaying slightly as a pleasant fuzziness overcame me. A quizzical smirk donned my slightly flushed face as I watched my action cause Dilandau to fall unceremoniously from my lap and onto the awaiting floor. I always did like my men at my feet!

"I'm still vexed with you for what you did to Dalet, not to mention my face the other night." I muttered, walking over to my bedside cabinet to pull out a towel. "I'm sure you think that I'm dependent on you Dilandau but I'm not. Just because you know how to please and pleasure me doesn't mean I'll capitulate and let you have your way with me whenever the whim takes you. Now if you don't mind I'm going to bathe. Caz is running it as we speak."

"Do you honestly think that I'm going to let you off so soon, Hell." He headed towards me a sinister gleam in his eyes and it was clear that his composure was far more sober than my own inebriated state. "You deserve to join Dalet in that healers ward concerning your unfaithfulness to me and yet it is you who is chastising me; I think not."

My hand slowly pulled my right hand dagger from my waist and as he leaned against me I pressed it to his chest. He looked down at it for a moment, regarding my slightly shaking hands before returning his gaze to me. "Surely we are even, Hell. I took my anger out on Dalet and you in turn did the same to Destiny." I shook my head.

"It isn't the same thing and you know it." He moved closer, seeming unfazed that the blade was about to enter him.

"Do you think you can turn away? Kill me now and move on, I doubt it. I believe I mean more to you than you know." There was a knock at the door and my head instantly snapped up to see who it was, inadvertently causing more stars to appear before my eyes.

"Lady Hell the bath is… Oh Lord Dilandau, I'm so sorry… I…"

"Caz, I'll be with you presently, just wait a…" I blurted out as I swayed unsteadily on my feet, shaking my head in an attempt to clear it. My words were instantly cut off as Dilandau took advantage of my present unsteady state, grabbing my arm and twisting it violently. My dagger slipped from my fingers as a spasm like pain tore through me when Dilandau's hold tightened. He forced me down onto the bed, belly first, pinning my arms behind me. I could still see Caz standing in the doorway, a look of confusion and horror on her face. She was clearly older than me, by at least two rotations, yet her innocence flowed from her being like that of a child. I already knew about her dealings with Demitri. The woman had explained almost every detail of her time with the elfin man, much to my distaste, yet I still believed that she was innocent in the ways of the world, despite her experiences over her years service of on the Vione. She had no idea of the horrors life held in store for such an innocent soul like herself. In my opinion the woman's head was up in the clouds while her feet where firmly placed on the floor, not a good combination!

"Go now, Caz." I shouted and watched with slight relief as her form blurred as she fled from the room. Dilandau's free hand ran along the side of my waist as I struggled in his strong hold.

"Haven't we been here before, Hell. I'm having the strangest feeling of déjà vu. Should I continue on as I did last night? Would you like that? I bet you would." How was it that all his little games had to be so bloody dominating?

"Go to hell!" I spat back at him, some what muffled by the sheet, as I felt him pressing himself into my backside wantonly. He moved away for a moment and I rolled onto my back, in a rather red and flustered state. The look he gave me was filled with such confidence and unadulterated anticipation for what he knew was to follow very shortly. It made me tremble, not with fear but with as much anticipation as Dilandau. The predator in him was screaming for him to act and end it, yet he obviously still wanted to play his game a little longer before going in for the kill; just like a cat playing with a mouse. He grabbed my hand, pulling me against him and I couldn't help myself from wrapping my arms and legs around him. Instantly I was lifted from my bed, hands running over the fabric of my clothes as the Adonis made his way into his own room.

Passing through his room was a hazy blur to me. As we entered the bathing room the steam engulfed us, till I could hardly see, increasing my already slightly drunken state. Dilandau stopped, presumably at the edge of the pool and his hands continued to caress me as I clung to him, running down my chest causing me to moan softly with the desire to experience more. I barely felt him gather me into his arms as he leaned forward so his lips brushed against mine, a kiss I gladly accepted and returned as I felt his tongue brush against my own. But much to my frustration Dilandau broke the kiss, only to stare into my eyes; always filled with such a passion.

There was no warning from him as he unceremoniously released his strong hold on me. I let out a cry as I free fell into the hot, awaiting water, my feet slipping under me as I attempted to rise to the surface. He must have decided to follow, slipping into the pool and moved towards me, brushing up against my form. I clung onto him as I tried to get my footing and breathed deeply. I had had no idea how great the depth was, it was well over my height! I spluttered out another cough and before turning to glare at the intolerable silver haired youth. He was so smug about what he had done, it was written all over his smirking face.

"Jerk." I muttered in a frustrated tone, I couldn't believe that he had done that. As I went to move away from him I was instantly pulled back against him, yet he said nothing for a length of time. He simply watched me as I struggled in his hold, trying to free myself.

"I'm surprised that you didn't take it any further with Destiny, Hell. You had every right to." Dilandau finally spoke thoughtfully. "A nick on the neck and that was all."

"She took the skills from Kuja," I responded quietly, as I finally conceded in trying to pull away from him and began to fiddle playfully with the ties of his shirt playfully. Considering my previously intoxicated state, I was uncommonly sober at this time. The shock of Dilandau's unprovoked action had clearly snapped me out of my stupor. "I recognised his technique. She could have taken them from another, one who would have been a far worthier opponent. I'd prefer a little more training before I have to face him. Anyway I think I will learn some valuable information from her shortly. I couldn't get it if she was dead, now could I. I just had to sate my need for blood. A nick was all I needed, for now!"

"This worthy opponent, I wonder who he may be? Tell me about him." Dilandau chuckled teasingly as he slid a hand under waterlogged shirt.

"Well he is quite a striking and powerful man who controls a well trained group of soldiers. He doesn't like his men touching what is his or questioning his authority." I paused to let out a soft chuckle, recalling the events concerning the elfin man earlier that day. "Poor Demitri, you know as well as I that he sees Destiny as his. Not that I disagree with your decision. He did speak out of turn. And Destiny… I do like the thought of her being passed around the Slayers like a rag doll. Yet, do you think it was wise to let Kuja go in his stead? You and I both know they have had dealings with each other before today and I'm sure Demitri is not blind to this knowledge either." Dilandau nodded his head slowly.

"He needed to learn that what I say is the law around here. He made it sound as if I didn't know what I was talking about. He is one of my men now and whether he likes it or not I hold his life in my hand. I will not allow any subordinate to underlie me and question my orders. It is necessary for all my men to understand this; it could mean the difference between life and death. People who question my authority must pay the consequences. I knew exactly what I was doing by sending Kuja to see to her needs. The elfin will think twice about questioning my orders in the future. " I couldn't help but smile at that.

"What about me, Dilandau?" I asked teasingly, pulling at his own loosened shirt. "What would my punishment be?" He grinned widely at me.

"In truth you have been questioning my authority ever since you're first day on the Vione! I can't do my trick with Demitri, for you are already off limits to my men. I will see to that everyone knows you are mine…what could I do to punish you?" I shook my head softly at his thoughtful question.

"Who said it would be only you dealing the punishment. I could do the same to you my own way." I replied as my hand slid under his shirt. "I could take control of the situations. Have you ever let a woman do that? Allowed her to become the dominant partner? You may find it can be as pleasurable as the other. Of course in my case I may take certain liberties to get my full enjoyment from the experience. Would you like that? Or would you like to be in charge as usual, Lord Dilandau?" My hand made it's way down to the front of his pants, running against him and I felt my own arousal grow as I felt him begin to harden because of my actions. He elicited a low moan, one I silenced with my mouth pressing firmly against his.

For once I was the one in control of the situation, if only for a short time, my hand sliding up ever so slightly to untie the tightening leather of his pants, edging them down. Ever so slowly I returned it to it's previous position and hardened the ministrations I had already began against the polished animal skin; making every action rough and deliberate yet highly arousing and pleasurable, like every thing Dilandau did to me. I watched with smug satisfaction as he let out another moan, his hands tightening on my waist every so often. Only when I felt them begin to tug at my own pants, fiddling to untie the lacing did I stop, my hand remaining on the slightly bulging material for a moment before letting it slide off.

Victory surged through me as Dilandau's hand grabbed mine, bringing it back to him. I stared into his magenta eyes and saw the plea in them; a plea I knew he could never voice.

"What's wrong Milord?" I teased softly. "You look awfully flustered." And to give more meaning to my words I let my hand finally slip into his parted pants. His intake of breath was harsh, only to he hissed out through clenched teeth as I touched him, his hips bucking up into my hold as his hand came down to hold mine in place.

I removed my hand quickly before he could react any further and began to make my way towards the pool edge, where I proceeded to slowly remove my drenched clothes. Dilandau watched me as I slipped from my training shirt, hands running down my figure to reach the front of my pants. I sank deeper into the water, concealing my form, my eyes never leaving his as I moved back till I hit the pool's edge. He followed me; I knew he would, his mind was to easy to read and control concerning such matters.

By the time he reached me he had already discarded his shirt and I felt a charge running through me as he pulled me against him wantonly, his bare chest pressing against mine. His hand came up to fiddle with one of the wet locks which clung to my face, if I hadn't known any better I would have believed it to be a small sign of affection, even the look in his eyes showed something in him had changed; if only for a fleeting moment. At that time I would have given anything to know what he was thinking, for such calm moments were hard to obtain while around Dilandau. I dismissed this thought as the hair fell from his fingers, my arms wrapping around his neck, his hands running down my body, lingering on certain spots till they rested on my hips. It didn't take long before his old self returned, affectionate touches replaced by demanding caresses but both I loved, although I was unsure why.

I woke quite suddenly the next day. I was unsure what had caused me to stir but whatever it was I was awake now. I ran my hand through my tousled hair, shivering slightly from the cool air that seemed to circulate around the room. My hand drifted down to my waist and pulled the sheet, which hung over my hips, up around my chest.

As I rolled onto my side I wasn't surprised to find the previously occupied space to be vacant. By the height of the sun in the sky I knew that it was late in the morning and so he had risen to train his Slayers. I didn't know where he got the energy. That thought brought a smile to my lips. Come to think about it I should have been up with them; it was my purpose coming here after all, wasn't it? But seeming as Dilandau had obviously made no attempts to wake me, choosing to let me sleep on, he had clearly felt that I had earned a longer rest. After all I hadn't been till early that morning that we had both been sated of our needs.

I was about to yawn sleepily, raising a hand to my mouth when I heard a faint knocking at the door and the squeak as the handle was turned.

"Hell?" Came a whispered call from behind the door.

"I'm here." I yawned as I rubbed my eyes. Demitri stepped cautiously into the room and I couldn't help but chuckle. "He isn't here, Demitri!" I spoke knowingly to the elfin man.

"I didn't think he would be. You see I came here to see you not Lord Dilandau, Hell. I just..." He went silent without finishing as he made his way towards me, his expression that of concern and anxiety.

"What's wrong?" I asked, sitting up in bed, holding the sheet in place around my figure.

"I need your help, Hell. It's Caz... last night..." he swallowed hard and his voice wavered. "Last night she was attacked."

"You're joking right?" I laughed but felt myself begin to tremble as I watched with horror as he shook his head. "But how, I only spoke to her last night."

"It was Sorcerer Omadon, he wanted information from her concerning Destiny, so…" Demitri cast his gaze to the floor. "So he let one of the other soldiers…" He didn't need to finish. I was already off the bed and in Dilandau's wardrobe raking around trying to find something, anything to put on.

"Where is she, Demitri?" I asked as I began pulling on a pair of Dilandau's leather pants, before returning to look for something else.

"She's in her room. I tried to see her but she refused to let me near her. I need to get close to her if I am to heal her, but I can't if she won't let me touch her." I was in too much of a hurry to care about modesty as I dropped my bed sheet to pull on the pants and lilac shirt. In truth the shirt was not suitable to wear, it only just covered my chest and the slit showed far more cleavage than I was comfortable with but this was no time to be concerned with such formalities. I glanced at Demitri for a moment and studied his face. The only emotion I could see was that of worry. I thought that his mind would have momentarily been on the scene I had just presented him with; I didn't think that many women would get changed right in front of him, yet he didn't seem fazed in the slightest. I couldn't imagine Dilandau doing that; he would be smirking his sordid face off.

The urgency of what I had just been told caused me to snap out of my thoughts and run to the chamber door. Demitri followed only steps behind as I made my way into the hall, breaking into a jog towards the servant quarters.

"Where's her room?" I shouted as we came to the row of chambers assigned to all lower members of the Vione. I saw Demitri pass me, only to come to a halt at the end door.

"It's this one." He muttered as I grabbed the handle and pushed it open.

As I entered the room I was presented with an all to familiar sight. Caz sat by her bed, head held low and shoulders shaking as she wept. It was an all to eerie image from my own painful past.

"Caz!" Demitri spoke softly. He said nothing more to her but the reaction was immediate. I watched as Caz shrank back at the mere sound of his voice and her cries continued. Quietly I made my way towards her, signalling Demitri to stay back. I knelt before whispering words of reassurance as I rested a hand on her shoulder. My other hand came under her chin, lifting her face into the light. She shook her head violently refusing but I persisted. I refused to quit; it was vital that I did not give up. My grip on her tightened ever so slightly and I felt pity surge through me as she whimpered from such a simple touch. Finally she allowed me to look at her, lifting her head to the noon light; sickness overcame me when she did. My anger boiled inside as I looked upon her battered face. Bruises and cuts marred her once pretty features, her lips swollen and bloodied. I could hear Demitri's approach and his angered tone as he spoke of the things he would do to her attack, he was however quickly silenced when I turned and glared at him sharply. The man would definitely suffer, but not by Demitri's hands. Gently I gathered the woman into my arms as her weeping continued and shuddered visibly when she cried out the moment I touched her sides. Immediately I relaxed my hold on her but did not pull away.

"Caz," I whispered as I ran a hand across her cheek, "Please I need to know where it hurts." I couldn't help the tears that came unbidden when she looked at me. So much pain was visible in her green orbs and it hurt even more to know I knew exactly what she was feeling.

"Please just make it stop!" she chocked out, her head dropping to my shoulder. "It hurts so much." I ran a hand through her hair as I slowly began to tighten my embrace. I could always recall Con doing this to me after my nightly abuse and whispering soothing words and so I knew exactly what she meant. The aching and disgust coursing through your body at the thought of what had happened, at the helplessness that there had been nothing you could do and the horror that it could always happen again. That would never leave you even if you tried to hide it. However much the body would be healed from the incident and the physical pain stopped, the mind would never be fully cured.

Eventually I felt Caz go limp in my arms; the experience; the had been to much for her to cope with. Instantly I turned to Demitri who had already moved to my side.

"What else do you want me to do?" I asked, looking up at him as he proceeded to take her from me, laying her gently on the floor.

"I need you to assist me in the healing. I can not do it alone."

"I don't think I can do anything to help you, not with the actual healing. I know nothing other than fighting and killing. Yes I know how to heal wounds but not to this extent. I only know of natural remedies to aid the healing process or prevent it; to induce death, but this.... This is well out of my hands. I doubt anyone can help her. In truth she will never overcome this fully." I spoke sadly as I stared down at her and at the marks that were evident on her swollen neck.

"I can heal her. The trance to help her heal quickly is simple, it's the spell to heal her mind that requires two, the second person is necessary to remove her memories but I must warn you..."

"Then use me. I don't think I could stand the thought that she would have such memories, not if I knew that I could relieve her of them."

"Destiny said you would help in her stead, but I still don't think you understand fully, Hell."

"If Destiny believes that I am capable to go in her place then I will do so. Consequences are all well and good but far better I have them than her."

"If Destiny would have been stronger this wouldn't be necessary. I am sorry." Demitri moved over the still form of Caz. Her paleness in complexion was only viewable in the few unmarked places left on her battered body. "I am sorry you have to live through what he did, no one should have to have this happen to them. Such men are monsters of humanity; they should all burn in Hell!"

As Demitri worked I could see as the look of physical pain ease on the Caz's face and the bruising on her body seemed to begin to fade slightly. Demitri stayed there for some time chanting, as the changes became more and more apparent. eventually he removed his hands and turned to look at me.

"That is all I can do for the physical abuse, the remaining marks will fade in a day or two. The rest is up to you and your willing cooperation." I sighed as I nodded my head.

"It's better this way. I'm positive that I can cope with what I receive far better than Caz can."

"Then come here and be seated next to me." I complied and watched as Demitri placed one hand on Caz, his touch light obviously to keep from hurting her further. The other he placed on me. He drew in a deep breath, closing his eyes seeming to call upon some unknown power and once again began to softly chant words in a tongue I was unfamiliar with. I watched in wonder at the concentration on his face and I could almost feel the air alive as it moved around us with an almost electrical charge.

"Anius, memory. Animus per morsus. Animus per patientia. Animus, memory. Insideo novo domus. Animus, memory." He spoke softly at first then louder as the spell was woven and he seemed to radiate immense power, small streaks of what looked like lightening filling the very air around us. I held my breath daring not to more as I listened to Demitri and watched the goings on in the room. I only moved when I felt a wave of confusion overcome me.

When the images of Caz's rape arrived they came think and fast and I cried out as it overwhelmed me. I my revulsion I tried to pull away, but Demitri's grip tightened forcing me to stop, his simple rough tough causing me to re-see the event as it were occurring right now.

Memories foreign and forgotten flashed before my eyes; pictures, feelings and above all terrible guilt that Caz, no that I had brought this on myself. I remembered my mother telling me that in life you got what you asked for with a man. How could anyone deserve this? How could that sweet woman Caz and how could I deserve this? I knew the guilt would never leave, but some how seeing it through her eyes, I knew she didn't ask for a thing she received, it had been a totally unprovoked attack. I could practically feel the hot breath of my attacker as he tore at my clothes. I could remember my cries as I was flung violently against my chamber wall, the force of every blow inflicted on me. The violation filling me as his ruff hand forced my skirt up while the other bent me over. I could hear the cackle of the vile man who stood and watched as I cried out in distress and pain, begging him to stop till I could no longer speak. The despair when I gave in trying to fight knowing that no one would come to my aid and that I was alone.

Other memories now began to flash in my mind, not of the rape, but of the reasoning behind it. I saw and heard myself beg for mercy, telling them everything I knew as I cried for the woman I was betraying. All that cruel pain had been inflicted on that gentlewoman, onto me, because of one person, Destiny. It always came back to her. But now Caz would not recall her affiliation with that name or its owner, while I would never forget. They were now my memories and scars; ones I would never forgive or forget.

Finally Demitri stopped his chanting and I collapsed on the floor shuddering with unwanted tremors. I flinched when I felt him touch my shoulder, lashing out at him and nicking the side of his face with my nails. After a long pause I managed to gather my senses together and looked up into Demitri's concerned eyes and I could feel my own dancing wildly with a need to strike out at the next thing I saw. I wasn't as weak as Caz and I was not one to let things lie. I was out for blood!

"Are you ok, Hell? I did try to warn you but…" he enquired as he helped me to my feet.

"Where is she?" I growled dangerously at him, ripping myself from his hold. He stepped back a few steps as I in turn approached him.

"Please don't do anything rash, Hell." He shouted out. "Don't take your anger out on Destiny. She is weaker than you think."

"Where is she?" I hissed grabbing hold of him, pinning him to the wall. "Tell me now Demitri. Tell me now unless you want to be seriously injured." I was slightly taken aback by my behaviour and inside I fought to control myself. The man himself was strong enough to overpower me yet I was so enraged that I think at that moment I could have taken on a land dragon, regardless that it could surely mean my death.

"She's in her chamber but, Hell please don't hurt her. You don't know what she's been through." Demitri called out as I headed towards the door.

"What a pity, after all she is the innocent party in all of this. If I were to have my way, Demitri, I would beat the life out of her just to make me feel better."

"Things are not what they seem and she is the innocent victim here. All she thinks of is what is required of her." He spoke sombrely, sadness apparent his cool violet eyes.

"You spout such rubbish sometimes, Demitri." I shouted as I stormed out of the room leaving him to finish taking care of Caz. I found it interesting that he had not gone after me, not that he could have stopped me, especially in the mood I was in at that moment. Yet he still chose to stay with Caz. What was his relationship with Destiny? I thought I knew but now it made me wonder!

As I turned the corner along the corridor to Destiny's quarters I was immediately confronted by the set of guards protecting her.

"If you value your lives you will not interfere in my dealings with that woman." I hissed as the two men immediately placed themselves in front of the door of her chamber.

"We have explicit orders from Lord Folken that we are to guard this door from every one, missy. Not even Lord Dilandau is permitted entrance." I growled warningly as the man's hand rested on my shoulder, his touch lingering and I couldn't help but shiver in disgust. I could feel his eyes running down my body suggestively; it sickened me. Were all Zaibach soldiers so perverted?

"Why don't you just leave us to do our jobs." The other man added. "I'm sure a pretty thing like yourself can find something else to preoccupy your time."

"Yer," the other slurred. "I'm sure Vervain would cover my shift for an hour while I kept you occupied." I grabbed the handle of my rapier as fury consumed my very soul. I had barely lifted it from its scabbard when the two men before me became silent and almost lifeless before collapsed to the floor. I regarded them in amused confusion for a moment before stepping past them, kicking the unnamed soldier below the belt before pushing Destiny's door open.

The door crashed loudly against the chamber wall as I entered the room and as I stormed into the centre of the chamber ready to strike the first person I saw I was immediately confronted by Destiny lying naked in bed. This startled me more than the sleeping men outside did. It made me think twice of striking her. Seeing her in such a state totally unnerved me and made me rethink my mind first thought; to beat the damned woman within an inch of her life, be shrewd the consequences.

"I'm sorry I had to be like this, but I don't enjoy pain and you were going to give me lots of it. I am going to dress now and then we will speak." She stood going over to the wardrobe to remove a tunic and breaches, letting the blanket fall to the floor as she dressed.

When she returned I had placed myself on the right side of her bed. My mind had wandered. Those haunting images repeated themselves over and over again in my mind till I could bear to contain them no longer. Every moment I relived not only Caz's haunting memories but my own. Destiny stood directly in front of me. I sneered as I looked at her, my hand instantly lashing out to come in contact with her face. "I guess I deserved that." I heard her mumble wiping the blood trail from the side of her mouth as she spoke. "I am stronger now, I can take the memories from you." This time I hit her with such force that she fell to the awaiting floor, crying out as she made contact with the cold, hard surface. My shoulders shook as I glared at her with pure hatred.

"You bitch," I hissed as I watched her raise a hand to her face, "You think it's so easy to remove what I see. Believe me it isn't. Do you honestly believe that you could handle what I'm seeing."

"I wouldn't just see it, I would feel it. It would become a part of me as have other things you would never understand." Destiny replied rubbing her red, swelling jaw.

"And do you not think it hasn't become a part of me also. For god sakes Destiny I feel trapped with scenes and feelings on all sides. You may tell me that you understand but in truth you have no comprehension of my suffering. Perhaps you have an idea but you have no clue to the depth it truly is." She looked at me with sad eyes.

"I have Omadon's memories of it." She finally spoke, as if that excuse was enough.

"Memories of the pleasure of watching her suffer, no doubt. Ifeel the pain of Caz's entire experience. I can hear that spineless coward as he watched her beg him to stop. Do not think this makes any comparison." I hissed back viciously.

"The man climaxed as if it were him doing what the other one was and in his mind he was. It was almost as bad as his plans for y...."

"Do to whom Destiny." I asked raising an eyebrow cautiously at her sudden reluctance to continue, ending her sentence short.

"You." She answered solemnly.

"And what was I to him." I shuddered at the thought of any intentions that vile man may have had concerning me. "What plans did he have?"

"Your female, and you are becoming a Dragon Slayer, Omadon would not let that happen. He planned to use me to end you. He thought he could make me his servant, a slave to do his bidding. He was very detailed in his plan." I turned to look directly at Destiny in open disbelief at what I was hearing, stopping the relentless pacing I had had unknowingly been doing around her room. "I was to influence Dilandau with my abilities, to seduce him and make sure we were caught in the act by you. He wanted you to see Dilandau's betrayal of you and then we would kill you together. Your last look at this life would be Dilandau's pleasure at ending you."

"As if Dilandau could have killed me." I almost chuckled in humour but my mood was too sombre to feel any real light heartiness.

"He would have done it and thought it his own idea and Omadon would have been there to watch."

"And tell me would you have gone through with it. You are somewhat of an enigma to me Destiny. I do not see you in any given role on this fortress. Of what I have hear you have bedded a fare few of the men residing here including Lord Folken himself, no doubt." How close I could be to the truth and not know it. "But what is the advantage of lying with so many." I rubbed my chin thoughtfully. "Then there is that fact that every time something happens it leads back to you. What is you purpose here? It can not be a mere coincidence that you were found in the forest, for I find that highly doubtful. You seem to be the unknown element, one, which always tips the balance for some reason and I, for one, intend to find out how and why."

"I am different, Hell, a slave doing the bidding of my masters, then passed to new masters. And as for bedding men here, in a matter of speaking it is true, but not for the reasons you believe."

"That doesn't answer my question, Destiny. You are very apt at eluding the truth. What about it frightens you so?" I smirked at her in loathing as she in turn stared back.

"Death, my abilities cause my own emotions to grow, if I don't find release they would kill me. Demitri understood this and till I came here he was my lifeline, but it is different when I mate, as you well know from experience. I never wanted to come here, but again those who pull the strings felt different. It is the nature of the beast that I am. They say that destiny is what you make it, well destiny is what I make it." I laughed out loudly at that. Someone was pulling her strings all right.

"And so how many have managed to pull your strings."

"Here or before? I have been doing what is required of me for a long time, but now, it is Folken whom pulls the strings. He has seen to it."

"Has he now!" I chuckled. "And you followed your orders like a lamb to the slaughter I bet, or should I say a whore to her bed."

"Believe what you like, but you haven't asked the most important question yet."

"And what prey is that? You obviously wish me to ask it for you would not have mentioned it in the first place. Tell me, what is this important question?"

"Why, if I knew how evil Omadon is, would I allow myself to be taken to him?" I had to admit that silenced me. I looked at her trying to gage her response but found no clues from her expression.

"Why them, why would you allow it?" I asked coming closer to her.

"Revenge." She stated, backing away from my advance. "I had taken something from Lord Dilandau that day I became trapped in his mind; yes I said trapped. Didn't you ever wonder about the man, he seems so young, but his experience is so much older?" My eyes narrowed, my thoughts now centred on what Destiny was saying. "I took memories from Dilandau, memories of what the sorcerers and of what Omadon had done to him. He had buried them, as they were almost worse than being raped. I gave them back to the one they belonged to; I gave the pain, the needles, and the fear back to Omadon. Dilandau knew of my plans. The revenge was for both of us." What did she know; she had no basis to compare any experience to that which she had never been subjected to.

"What, is this another of your mind tricks trying to confuse me to save your hide?" I turned from her my fists clenched.

"No Hell, I wish it were. You were right, I am never anywhere without reason. Dilandau will never have those memories to haunt him and Folken as we speak is covering up what I have done. The only loose end left is the guard and I think he is the reason you came to see me." I smirked devilishly at her words, one I could never remember having before my time on the Vione.

"You are right in that assumption, I intent to make him pay for both Caz and myself. The pain inflicted will be returned three folds. I learnt how to suppress these images long ago but now…" I could feel myself shaking as I spoke and I stared at Destiny. My mind went back to another time and I shuddered. "It will take a long time to overcome this; that I know. Dealing with this soldier will just help to ease it for now."

"He is in the below decks, I don't know exactly where but you will find it, just follow the screams; Dilandau is with him now." Again she gave me a sorrowful look. "Your life is full of choices, for that I am envious of you, mine is out of my hands." She said pulling up slightly on the leg of her breeches to reveal a tattoo there. The purple teardrop showed of her own status as a possession causing me to recall my first night with Dilandau and the gown and a night in my long forgotten and yet reawakened past, which was so similar to that night.

"Fewer than you know Destiny, and as time passes they seem to dwindle in size." I sighed, closing my eyes. I would not spill tears in front of this woman, not now or ever. I had refused to show such weak sentiments for so many endless rotations and so I would not allow myself to shed them now. I was so much stronger than that; or so I thought.

"Some men mark their possessions for all to see, while others mark them in ways that can't be seen; don't become marked." I laughed under my breath as she spoke

"You speak as if it is not to late, Destiny. I was marked long ago and that can not be changed. Even now I still bear it." My hand came up to run along the bruise still marring my lower jaw and split lip.

"That is because you have allowed it. You have the power to free yourself from those kinds of marks, and you will."

"I am a possession, I do not deny it although I do in front of him. Even if I did break free what then. I have been tied down for to long, Destiny." I swallowed hard as I stepped back. "I told myself when I was young that I would never be controlled by a man again, but in a man's world we must simply adapt to our situations. You should know that as well as myself. We must take the opportunities laid before us. For instance that soldier will feel the wrath of a women very shortly and he will wish to god that it was still Dilandau down there with him, for I will be far less forgiving."

Slowly I stood from the edge of the bed but as I went to move I found Destiny blocking my way. I looked at her in confusion as she leaned closer to me and as she stared at me I could feel fuzziness in my mind, I knew instantly that she was there. I was so preoccupied with trying to stop her with my mind that I never saw it coming when her lips met my own in a soft and gentle kiss, the action shocked me so much I could do nothing but stand there dumbfounded. Finally gathering my wits I pulled away as I felt her release the link between us.

"You bitch, what was that for." Even as I spoke the words I already knew the answer. I could feel the power coursing throughout my body; she had given me her strength, but why and to what end?

"I can't hit hard enough." She plainly answered my unspoken question. "You'd better go and do what needs to be done, the guards will wake soon." I turned only once as I exited the room closing the door behind me; leaving Destiny to that of her own namesake.

As I made my way into the bowels of the Vione I contemplated what to do for the guard whom was being held there at this very moment. Every so often a cry pierced the silence and as I neared my destination they grew louder till once again all was still. Eventually I arrived at the stretch of cells and grinned. My victim lay in one of them and I bit my lip in anticipation, madness seeming to consume my mind. Glancing through every door I gradually made my way down the long stretch of holding cells till I came upon one that seemed most promising.

Outside the end cell door stood a stiff chair with a guard occupying the space above it. He wore a grim, paling expression, which seemed to whiten even more so when another cry echoed through the hall. I recognised the man almost instantly; it was Gatti. I grinned at him upon my approach and watched as he shuddered deeply on the chair.

"Why Gatti you look so pale, I hope you aren't ailing." I chuckled at him heading towards the door he guarded. He staggered to his feet, his body shaking slightly as he did so and grabbed my arm as I rested my hand on the handle. "If you do not remove your hand I swear you will regret it Gatti. I am in no mood for your chauvinistic, pigheadedness today." I warned the trembling boy before me; the boy was a fast learner, for the hand was immediately removed.

"Lord Dilandau is in there right now, Hell. His orders were that he was not to be disturbed for any reason" Gatti spoke as controlled as possible. It was obvious that the poor boy had never been subjected to being party to such goings on, as was happening right now.

"Interrogating is he?" I asked lightly as if it was nothing at all and again watched as Gatti paled, nodding meekly in response. "Well then I am just going to have to help him play with the man, aren't I? I can't let him have all the fun!" His reaction was immediate. He just stared at me in disbelief and he gabbled on with his words before they made any sense.

"I…I… can't let you go Hell, Lord Dilandau will be most displeased if I let you."

"Let me put this plainly, Gatti. If you do not let me pass, like you said so eloquently, I will be most displeased." I replied grabbing his arm in a harsh action. "If you don't let me pass you will be going straight through that door. You're in a bit of a predicament aren't you? You could say you're trapped between to evils. You can either stand by Dilandau's order and have me to deal with or vice versa." He stared at me; his eyebrows slightly furrowed in worry and I sneered at his child like innocence, so weak. With a large shove I threw him into the chair he had previously occupied, sending him and the chair skidding along the floor with the force. For a moment I stared at him, I didn't think I had shoved him that hard. But my need for revenge overpowered my mild shock and I opened the door and silently entered the room.

I searched out and immediately found the form I craved to see above all others, strange that it was not the man I had intentionally set out to find. Dilandau stood in his leather pants and grey shirt, markings marring the latter fabric, which was undeniably that of blood.

I steadied my minds composure while the energy I had received from Destiny forced me to act upon them. As I came towards him Dilandau turned, a smirk appearing upon his face.

"Your up." He murmured lightly as I stopped in front of him. "I thought you would want the rest." His eyes ran down my form, obviously taking in the similarity in clothing.

"I find it hard to rest in such circumstances, Dilandau." I said as I ran my hand across his cheek, smearing the splatter of blood on his cheek with the pad of my thumb. Bringing it to my mouth I brushed it against my lips, running my tongue across the crimson liquid and smiled at him. I watched with satisfaction as his eyes darkened almost immediately, his hands coming out to grab me; holding me still. "However much of a pleasurable distraction you present Dilandau, I did not come here to entertain you. I have more important matters to take care of." His eyebrows rose in surprise and I chuckled as I leaned forward, placing a delicate kiss on his lips. "I have come to settle a vendetta concerning your newest toy." I murmured against them. A low growl came from his throat and his hold tightened. I allowed him tug me closer to him, my own hands sliding teasingly down the front of his hips, pulling him against me.

"What would interest you in him?" he asked inclining his head to his right. The sound of movement came from the very corner and the echo of ragged breathing was shortly followed by a forced cough. I cooed under my breath, grinning as I stepped towards the chained figure tied to the wall, "Here is the very man whom I came to see!" His face was beyond recognition; cuts and bruises decorating that which at one time I knew had been a handsome face. And that wasn't the only part of him marred either, his chest and abdominal area was a pleasant shade of purple, black and red; a beautiful contrast to his tanned complexion.

Lightly I ran a hand into his matted locks before letting it travel down his face, neck and chest, making deliberate movements to graze and irritate his already inflamed and painful wounds. "I must say you did a good job Dilandau. It looks like you enjoyed yourself." I turned back to him to see the grin across his face and watched as he shrugged his shoulders.

"So do you feel more of a man after doing what you did to that poor lass." I sneered as I looked at soldier in disgust and walked up to him. "Not that it matters now, you won't be much of one when I'm finished with you. Tell me was raping that defenceless woman worth the pain and death awaiting you?" Slowly I drew my dagger and dragged it across the man's flesh, the newly sharpened blade needing little guidance in its appointed task. It hardly touched him and yet the wound stated otherwise. I repeated the action again but this time I pressed hard against the skin and his cries were released into the enclosed cell.

"Are all men of Zaibach so weak?" I murmured as I caused the man, Gregory, to elicit another cry of pain. "It must be so horrible to have something done to you without being able to defend yourself. Now tell me was it worth it?" I sank the blade into his side, twisting it sharply to the left before removing it. "WELL?"

"NO," I sneered at him as he struggled to keep his head up and although he did not ask for it his eyes begged for pity.

"I know exactly what you did to her, how you revelled over the power and control you had, if only for that brief moment. Her cries for help and pity fell on your deaf ear. Even after she had told you everything she knew you still continued. If you were unwilling to show pity on her then tell me why should I show it to you?" My movements became fluid every time I allowed my dagger to sink into his flesh I revelled in his cries, his pain; just as he had with Caz. Each cut deeper and more vicious.

"For god sakes she was only a servant." He screamed out. "A penny a dozen." My anger flared at this and I stared at him with pure hatred as I slammed the dagger, gripped firmly in my grasp, into his side. The scream that followed was deafening. A bittersweet symphony in my ears.

"Whatever you did to her you have unintentionally done to me and you will pay for it." I hissed at him as I stared at his battered and bloodied form and the blood now freely flowing from his mouth. "You think her expendable because of her status in the grand scheme of life?" I placed the blade's tip against his chest rolling the pommel in the palm of my hand causing the deadly blade to rotate. "But if what you say is true and she is so expendable than what does that make you?" His Prussian eyes shot open as I lunged forwards and the blade was imbedded deep into his unprotected chest. Once again I twisted it hard before removing it and grinned at him as he started to cough violently, gasping for air. Splutters passed his lips as choked gurgles; the blood his body so desperately needed rising unnaturally up his throat, hindering his already laboured breathing and I watched with cold satisfaction as his eyes rolled into the backs of their sockets, the white of the pupil now showing. His body shook involuntarily and I took great pleasure from slowly removing the dagger.

I stood silently watching the crimson liquid escaping the deep wound before leaning towards him and placed a kiss on his bloodied lips before pulling back; I knew he was nearing his end.

"Death is a release, not a punishment, although after this life it could be either. I hope to the gods' that it is the latter. I hope you burn in hell."

"Very entertaining," I heard Dilandau muse as he came up behind me resting a hand on my shoulder. "But do you think that was wise? What am I to tell Folken now?"

"I'm sure you will think of something Dilandau. If you were smart enough to arrange such a thing for Destiny then I'm sure you can handle this little accident. Why should she and Caz be the only ones to suffer while you go about your life as normal?" With that I turned and left the cell, ignoring the soldiers blood dripping down my hand and dagger, or the red liquid covering my face and shirt. I recall the look of utter horror crossing Gatti's face upon my exit and the cry as Dilandau pushed him out of his way, as he too exited, leaving the chained Gregory to finish bleeding to death; choking on his own blood.