"Celena?" She looked up. It was Allen, her older brother, his dear face looking at her in concern. She smiled at him as he sat at the end of the dinner table: long blonde hair framing his handsome face, large blue eyes luminous in the candlelight.

She heard another inner cry and paled. Allen jumped up from the table and came over to her, but she stopped him with an upraised hand.

"Please," she said, her voice a soft contralto, "I'm OK."

"It's the headaches again, isn't it," he stated gently and she nodded. "I don't understand why the doctors can't cure this," he added with some frustration. The pain had started about two months after they had let her out of her suite of rooms, dull at first, but steadily increasing in intensity. Celena hadn't told anyone that in the past few days she was starting to hear a voice as well. She was afraid they would lock her back up in her rooms again, and she had had enough of the confinement, comfortable as it was.

"I think perhaps you should lie down," he said with soft decisiveness.

"If you say so," she replied meekly. "You don't mind me leaving you?"

"Of course not, my dear," he replied, lightly pulling her out of her chair and giving her a hug. She smiled up at him, grateful that his eyes were clear of distrust; filled only with concern and love for her. He let go of her and she left the room, slowly climbing the large staircase to the second-floor bedrooms, one slender hand trailing along the polished marble banister.

The voice wailed again, and she clutched the cold stone rail, clamping one hand over her mouth to stifle her own cry of anguish. Celena rode out the wave of pain, praying that no one would see her crouched on the stairs. No one came by, and she breathed a silent thanks as the wave receded and she was able to reach the top of the staircase. She walked down the ornate hallway, slippered feet sinking in the maroon carpet, and reached her doorway without incident. Her maid Keiko was already in the room when she entered, and she welcomed her gentle ministrations as she got undressed and prepared for bed. Keiko, a merry girl only a few years older than her own sixteen and a half years, was well trained and soon Celena was tucked in bed, a glass of water and lit candle sitting on the small table beside her.

"Sleep well, Miss," the young maid said quietly and walked towards the door. Celena sat up with a start, sudden terror washing out the pain.

"You're, you're not leaving me alone, are you?" she asked anxiously. Keiko turned back towards her and smiled reassuringly.

"Of course not, Miss," she replied, "I'll be right by the door, like always." Celena gave back a tentative smile and watched her leave, trying not to tremble. It was only the past few weeks that she could bear being alone in a room; Allen had been very patient with her on this quirk, spending all of his free time with her and providing her with Keiko when he had to be away. Celena lay back down and drew the covers up to her chin. The terror slowly subsided and the pain resumed, but thankfully it was less intense. She stared at the gently waving flame, patiently waiting for sleep, and her thoughts slid back through time. Her memory consisted of two parts: her childhood and the last year and a half. There was a large gap in her memory - from about five years old to about fifteen. Ten years gone, thanks to the sorcerors of Zaibach. They had snatched her away from her brother and mother on a beautiful summer day and had isolated her for days on end, then all was blank until she found herself in the uniform of a Zaibach warlord, watching her brother Allen fighting the King of Fanalia in their guymelefs on a dark and burning plain.

The candleflame lazily waved back and forth, bringing her back to the present, and she felt the pain slowly abate as she slipped into the darkness. But she didn't fall alseep. She kept slipping down, then slowly the darkness cleared and she found herself facing a damp stone wall. There was a figure chained to the wall, a tall young man with pale skin and silver hair. He was clad in a loose, sleeveless undershirt and black pants; his wrists were fettered, the chains stapled to the wall behind him. His head was bowed and he was panting in exhaustion. Celena stared at him, her mind whirling with confusion. He jerked at the chains, the links clinking in metallic dischord, then he looked up.

She backed up several steps, terrified by the madness in the large, red- irised eyes. He blinked in shock, then glared at her and lunged forward. The chains jerked him back and he howled in pain; she could see the blood running from his wrists and she turned her head away, sickened.

"Let me GO, bitch!" he screamed at her and she jerked her head back to look at him.

"Wha, what?" she stammered, mesmerized by the blazing red eyes.

"You heard me!" he shouted. "Free me, you worthless piece of crap! Arrgh!" He yanked at the chains with insane fury, causing fresh blood to pour down his arms.

She sank to her knees, closing her eyes and covering her ears. She tried desperately to wake up, but the horrible young man continued to scream insults at her and wrench at his chains. She curled into a tight little ball, trying to hide inside herself, and suddenly there was silence.

She lifted her head and opened her eyes slightly. He was standing there, looking at her, blood spattered across his shirt and face and dripping from the fetters.

"Horrible," she whispered, "how horrible." He smiled at her, the pale lips curving into a smirk. She had the impression that this was his usual expression, and she didn't like it. It looked cruel and arrogant, two attributes she had no use for. She got to her feet and hugged herself, studying him. Although he obviously couldn't break free from the chains, she was quite terrified of him.

"Who are you?" she managed to get out and he scowled.

"I'm you, stupid," he snarled, "now LET ME GO!!" She cried out in terror, shaking her head helplessly.

"I don't know how!" she gasped, "And I wouldn't if I could. . ." The red eyes burned with sudden insane fury and she shrank back from him as he threw himself forward.

"WHAT?!?" he shouted. "WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE, BITCH?! LET ME GO!!!" He howled wordlessly and went back to wrenching at his chains. Suddenly she felt very calm, and watched his futile efforts in silence. She waited until he fell back, exhausted, then took a tentative step forward. He instantly tensed and trained his eyes on her. She flinched back at the feral stare, then straightened and crossed her arms.

"You must be Dilandau Albatou." He laughed disdainfully.

"Give the girl a prize," he snorted. "Are you really as stupid as you look?" She stepped forward again, a slow burn arising within her. No one had ever spoken to her in this way, and she had had about enough of it from this horrible person. He smirked at her knotted brow and backed up a step.

"It's a good thing you have dear brother Allen to help you out. Does he dress you too?" Outraged embarassment flooded her and she gasped, confused at this new feeling. She took another uncertain step and he pounced on her, crushing her to him with brutal strength.

"GOTCHA!" he howled and she threw back her head and screamed in terror.

"Celena!" she heard above her as she saw a small bright light appear above them.

"Allen!" she cried out and suddenly she was slipping from Dilandau's arms, flying upward through the darkness towards the brilliant pinpoint. She heard his scream of frustrated rage fading beneath her as she plunged into the light and suddenly she was back in bed, panting in terror, Allen's arms about her.

"Celena! Celena!" her brother cried out and she clutched him to her, tears streaming down her face as she buried her face in his shirt front.

"Oh, Allen!" she gasped. "Dilandau. . ." She felt him stiffen at the name.

"You saw him?" he asked incredulously. She nodded, not daring to look at him.

"He was chained. . .it was horrible!" she cried, her voice muffled by the white linen. Allen held her close, then gently pulled her from him and looked into her eyes.

"I think," he said softly, "You need to stay within your rooms for awhile." Celena looked at him in astonishment.

"A. . .alone?" she whispered, filled with the old terror. Her brother, shadows playing over his fine features, smiled reassuringly.

"Of course not, dear one," he replied. "I will be here, and Keiko too. I just want you to be kept safe."

"Thank you, thank you," she gasped, and he took her face in his hands and kissed her brow.

"You really scared me," he said gently. "Keiko heard you crying out and she couldn't wake you, so she called me. I'm so glad you came back to me." She looked up at him as he released her and stood. He was here; she was safe. But suddenly she felt confined, somehow. The thought of staying inside her small suite of rooms again pricked her; she had been kept here for almost a year after she had returned to herself on that dark plain; her rare outside excursions closely attended by Allen. They had been waiting for Dilandau to reappear, she knew; but there had been no sign of him and, as the long days had dragged into long months, she had longed for freedom. To have it taken away again!

"Brother?" she asked timidly. He looked at her inquiringly. "Must I stay here?" He frowned and sat down beside her, putting a gentle hand upon her shoulder.

"Celena," he said earnestly. "I believe you are in real danger. We can't afford to have Dilandau come out again. Do you understand that?"

"Yes. . ."

He had both hands upon her shoulders, now, and, looking into his concerned blue eyes, she knew he was right. As always. She nodded and gave him a small smile. He smiled in return and stood.

"Good," he said and turned towards his left. Celena noticed with a start that Keiko was in the room with them, kneeling respectfully near the bed.

"Please stay with her, Keiko," he said, then turned to look down upon her. "I have some people to contact about this, then I'll come right back." He turned on his heel and left her, closing the door behind him firmly. Celena drew her knees up and wrapped her arms about her legs, conflicting thoughts banishing any chance for sleep.

* * *

The days went by and Celena puttered about her suite of rooms, practicing her music on the pianoforte, doing embroidery and studying a wide assortment of books from an extensive library she had in her study. Mostly, though, she spent time at the large open windows, feeling the breeze and gazing longingly out at the meadows and woods that stretched away from the mansion. Keiko did her best to keep her mistress diverted, telling her the bits of local and national gossip that she picked up from talking with the other servants. Celena felt that she knew more about the doings of the aristocracy of Asturia, Fanlia and Freid than any young lady had the right to know, but she was grateful for the distraction.

She was sitting at one of her bedroom windows, stretching her arms outside of the sill and enjoying the warm late-morning sun, when suddenly she began to think about her situation. Allen had been quite firm about keeping her here; he was worried that Dilandau would take over if she got outside. Celena sighed sadly; her brother now gazed at her with that old mistrust again. She had tried so hard to be the perfect sister; she had studied all the histories of Gaia and learned the arts of a noblewomen to perfection. When he had let her out six months ago it had been like being reborn; she was so looking forward to traveling the countryside and visiting other places. They had been planning a trip to Palas, to see King Dryden and Queen Melerna; people she had never met but knew so much about. Now this. A tear slid down her cheek and she bowed her head. What does Allen see when he looks at me?

She looked over at the vanity beside the bed, inspecting herself in the polished mirror. A young woman of almost seventeen, long, pale gold curls piled up on her head, large grey-blue eyes and delicate features.

"You don't look anything like me," Dilandau's voice snarled in her head.

"Oh!" she gasped and jerked to her feet, staring wide-eyed at the mirror. Nothing had changed, and she drew in a slow breath.

"What a pity," the voice drawled. "I'm much better looking than you."

"Be quiet!" she whispered, looking fearfully through the open door to her drawing room. Keiko was in there, trying her hand at sketching a still life. The maid didn't turn. Celena clutched her head, then forced her hands down to her lap. If she acted oddly, her chances of leaving this soft prison were gone. She looked out the window again, waving to a couple of groomsmen as they passed by far below. They waved back, grinning, and she managed a smile in return. It was hard, however, for she could now feel his presence in her mind; not painful, just there.

"What do you want?" she whispered after the grooms had rounded the building.

"What do you want?" he mimicked savagely. "What do you think? I want my body back."

"Well, why haven't you taken it?" she asked in exasperation. There was a long silence, and she hoped he had gone away. Then the voice spoke reluctantly.

"I . . . can't." Celena frowned.

"But, surely. . ." she started and he cut her off with a snarl.

"Don't you think I've been trying? All I've been able to do is see through your eyes and hear through your ears. I'm getting pretty sick of staring at embroidery and listening to stupid songs. Is that all you know how to do?" She gasped in anger and clenched her hands.

"I happen to have all the accomplishments of a true noblewoman," she stated with heatedly. "Allen said so." She heard contemptuous laughter roll in her head.

"Allen said so! Oh, then it must be true! Please." He snorted. "God, am I glad I'm not a woman!"

"You aren't anything!" she cried out, then clapped her hand to her mouth, jerking her head towards the open door. Keiko, absorbed in her drawing, didn't turn around, and Celena sighed in relief. Dilandau laughed mockingly and she ignored him as well as she could, thinking furiously. So, he could see and hear but not anything else. Would Allen believe her? Somehow she didn't think so, and she shivered, her thoughts racing. If anyone found out, her brother would have to make some hard decisions on what to do about her. Would he take her someplace else? Somewhere not so pleasant, where there would be no chance of escaping? Forever?

"Miss?" Keiko asked suddenly and she turned with a little scream, her hand clutching at her throat, eyes enormous with fear. Dilandau laughed again, then fell silent. The maid ran up to her, her face full of concern, and dropped to one knee.

"Are you all right, Miss?" she asked worriedly. "You look so pale and frightened." Celena forced herself to smile and shake her head. She took the maid's hands in her own.

"You just startled me, Keiko," she replied warmly. "I'm fine. How's the drawing coming along? Are you finished?" The maid blushed prettily and shyly got to her feet. As they walked to the drawing room, Celena called down to him.

"Are you still chained?"

"Yes. Happy?" She shuddered, thankful that Keiko was ahead of her and couldn't see.

"Of course not! Well, relieved is a better word." He snorted and she could faintly hear the dischordant music of the metal links that bound him.

"Listen to me," she said. "If anyone finds out that you are truly with me, we will never be allowed outside of these rooms again. I want to be free again, so behave!"

Silence. Then, "What do you want from me?"

"Don't drive me crazy!" she pleaded. "Use some restraint or else they will find out!"

The two girls were standing before the easel in the drawingroom now, and Celena inspected the drawing. It was quite good, and Keiko glowed with the honest praise she gave her. At the young noblewoman's suggestion, she went to find her sketchbook, leaving her alone for the first time since that terrible night. Celena, watching the outer door close (and lock) behind the maid, waited for the customary stab of terror, but it didn't come. He was still there, in her mind, and she drew a strange comfort at that.

"Celena," she muttered to herself, "you've lost it."

* * *

She decided to try to reach him that night. She had been taking a powerful sleeping drug every night, terrified of slipping back down to that horrible place, and had dropped instantly to sleep each time. This night, however, she smilingly refused the glass that Keiko offered her. The maid raised her eyebrows in surprise.

"But aren't you afraid. . ." she started, then stopped as Celena shook her head.

"I think everything will be all right," she replied softly and Keiko hesitantly put down the glass, her face concerned. Celena laughed gently.

"It's OK, Keiko," she said. "I feel fine! Now please go get some rest. Allen's coming home late tonight and I need you to wake me early so I can look my best for him at breakfast. OK?"

"Of course, Miss." The maid tucked up her covers and softly retired to her bed in the next room. Celena watched her go, then closed her eyes and tried to relax. She instantly slipped downwards and found herself facing the damp stone wall, her mouth gaping at the ease of the transition.

Dilandau was sitting against the wall, knees drawn up and head bowed. The iron chains still fettered his wrists; the blood that encrusted them and ran down his arms were brown with age. He lifted his head and looked at her, and she was shocked anew at the expression on his face. The features were uncharacteristically soft, the great eyes filled with sorrow.

"What do you want?" he asked quietly. Celena quelled the urge the kneel beside him; she shivered at the memory of the brutal strength of his embrace.

"Is this a trick?" she demanded and he shrugged, looking away. Celena noticed a long pink scar running from his eyebrow to his jaw, marring the smooth cheek. Where did he get that, she wondered.

"I miss them," he said dully and her brow furrowed in confusion.

"Who?"

"My dragonslayers. Chesta, Miguel, Dallet, Gatti." She took a step forward but stopped as he turned back towards her.

"Oh, Gatti," he continued. "He loved me so much. He said he would never leave me." The red eyes darkened to magenta. "But then he had to go and get himself killed. Incompetent fool. They all were. Now I'm alone." He shuddered and hugged his legs, burying his face in his knees. The white shoulders began to shake.

"Alone, all alone," he sobbed hopelessly. Celena stared at him, alarmed, confused, she didn't know what. What should she do? She thought about leaving him, then she remembered her own terrified memories of being left alone. She began to tremble as her mind turned towards those horrible hours, crouching on the cold stone floor, her screams unheeded. She stepped up and knelt beside him, putting one hand gently upon his shoulder. He jerked away and she gasped as one of the cold chains brushed against her.

"Go away," he snarled at her. "Leave me alone. Again."

"But," she exclaimed softly, "you're not alone." He looked up at her, his cheeks streaked with tears, and frowned.

"What?"

"I could never leave you," she continued. "How would it be possible? We are one." He stared at her skeptically.

"One?"

"Yes. I can feel your presence in my mind now. Don't you feel me as well? We are together, forever!" He frowned at her again, thinking it over, then his face cleared and he smiled tentatively. It was a strange smile for him, free of malice, but it gave his features a beauty that made her catch her breath. Impulsively, she put her hands on his fetters and, to her astonishment, the thick iron melted away, revealing the raw wrists. He stood and gently pulled her to her feet.

"Together," he said wonderingly, then slowly his look grew crafty. Celena felt a pang of alarm as the familiar smirk curved his lips.

"Don't," she said, not sure what she meant to say, and he was about to answer when a pinprick of light shown above them.

"Miss Celena. . .." Keiko's voice sounded above her and she flew upwards, spurred on by the fear that her maid may not be able to wake her and would realize what was happening. She opened her eyes and gazed up. Keiko smiled reassuringly.

"You were murmuring in your sleep, so I thought I would see if everything was all right." She gestured to the glass by the bed. "Do you need. . .?"

"Oh, no," Celena replied quickly, "I'm fine. I must have been having a dream."

"A dream!" Dilandau said suddenly and laughed.

"Shut up," she snarled, shocking herself with the vehemence of her anger. "You'll get us in trouble!"

"All right, all right."

She smiled at Keiko and brought her hand up to stifle a yawn. The maid got the hint and softly left her. Celena pulled the covers up to her chin and stared at the ceiling, wondering if she had done the right thing, then realizing that there was nothing she could do about it now. She thought about him, how vulnerable he had been; but she was afraid that she had done a terrible thing in freeing him. Oh, if only Allen were here! But what would he do if he knew? The covers grew damp under her clutching fingers and she began to shake. Then she heard him in her head.

"Celena."

"What?" she whispered, still shaking.

"I won't get us into trouble. I want us to be free, too."

"Oh, what am I going to do?" she wailed inside. "Allen will, will. . ."

"He can't know!"

"I know that! But I'm so scared!"

"But not alone," he said and she could hear the smile in his voice. "Never alone again." Her shaking stopped and she drew in a long breath. I'll deal with this tomorrow, she thought and reached for the sleeping draught. She needed a good night's sleep before meeting with her brother.

* * *

Allen paced the deck of his airship, deep in thought. He had traveled to Fanalia immediately upon learning of Celena's encounter, requesting an audience with the reigning monarch, Van Fanal. Van, up to his ears in affairs of state, had found some time somewhere and granted his request. The meeting had been brief, held in a tower room of the rebuilt palace.

"You know what this means, Allen," the young, darkhaired king had stated, staring at him soberly. Allen shrugged, looking away.

"Allen," Van said and he looked back at him. "I won't allow Dilandau to roam free on Gaia. He has caused enough devastation on our world to last ten lifetimes; Fanalia is still recovering from the time he and his slayers burned it to the ground." The amber eyes grew cold. "I will kill him if I see him." Allen ground his teeth, his hand automatically reaching for his kitana.

"You'll have to go through me first," he snarled. "He's still Celena, my sister; my only family." Van frowned, then spread his hands in appeal.

"What would you have me do?" he asked. "You know as well as I how dangerous he is. If he takes over your sister, she will have ceased to exist; he will have killed her. How do you feel about that?" Allen stared at him, shocked at the thought, then relaxed.

"Well, nothing's happened yet. She says he was chained, so perhaps all this worrying is for nothing." The knight smiled charmingly as Van looked skeptical. "I'll keep a close eye on her. She's been confined to her quarters since the event, and I'll make sure she's under constant observation." The young king shook his head doubtfully, running one hand through his unruly hair.

"I hope for her sake you're right. The kingdoms are still recovering from the Great War. The last thing we need is that psychotic set loose among us."

Allen could only agree and, as he gazed out the front windows of his ship, he shuddered at the thought of his gentle Celena transforming back into that monster. She had come so far since that fateful day she'd recognized him as he had fought to protect her from Van. She had worked so hard to catch up for those lost years, and Allen's heart ached at the devotion she'd shown him. In all those months, there had been no sign of Dilandau, and he had let her roam the mansion and the grounds, always with a companion, of course, and how she loved the freedom! Beautiful, graceful, accomplished, he couldn't wait to introduce her to polite society, and had been looking forward to presenting her to Asturia's king and queen. Now they were back at the beginning, it seemed, but with a dark red shadow looming over them. The shadow of Dilandau.

"Damn!" he shouted and slammed his fist against the window sill. Gaddes, his seargent, ran over to him.

"Everything all right, boss?" he asked worriedly.

"Yes, Gaddes." Allen looked out the window, resting his forehead against the cold glass. What had made him think Van would be any help? He should have known the young king would only see the threat; not consider possible solutions. Suddenly, Allen thought of Hitomi, the wonderful girl from the Mystic Moon who had played such a large part of the events leading up to and including the Great War.

"I sure could use one of your readings right now," he murmured, smiling sadly. She had the ability to accurately predict the future, and had helped him reconcile himself with his dead father, who had abandoned his family long ago. Allen believed himself in love with her at one time, but that had turned out to be only an infatuation. He wondered if he truly couldn't fall in love again, after Marlene. . .

The towers of his mansion rose into sight against the rising moons, and Allen, snapped back to the present, prayed that all would be well when he got there.

* * *

Celena was waiting for him at the breakfast table, her cheeks flushed with pleasure at his return, and she made a lovely picture as she came up to him, her hands outstretched. He enfolded her in his arms, his heart full of love. Surely she was all right; everything would work out.

"Dear Sister," he murmured. "How are you faring? Any more bad encounters?" She pulled away from him and looked up at him, her eyes serious.

"I'm fine, Brother," she said and smiled, her face bright in the morning sun. He smiled back at her and tweaked her nose, then they sat down to eat.

"Allen," she said hesistantly after a few minutes had gone by. He looked at her inquiringly.

"Yes?" She shifted in her seat, looking anxious.

"I was hoping I could go out today. Just to the meadow," she said quickly, her large eyes intent upon his face. "I'm so tired of staying in my rooms. Please?" Allen studied her thoughtfully, tapping his spoon softly against his plate. He had talked to Keiko earlier this morning and she had reported no unusual occurrences. In fact, the young maid had been glowing in her praise of her mistress' activities. Still. . .

"Of course Keiko will accompany me," she added, looking at him so hopefully that he could only laugh.

"I'm sure that will be fine, then," he added and she sprang up and ran over to him, throwing her arms about him in delight. They finished breakfast and he waved goodbye to the young women as he headed for his office, intent on catching up on the endless work of running his estate and fulfilling his duties as a Knight Caeli.

* * *

Celena stepped over the threshold of the main entrance, turning her face to the morning sunlight. She shivered slightly in the cool air and Keiko immediately pulled her shawl more tightly about her. She turned and smiled at the maid, grey-blue eyes glowing.

"Thank you," she murmered.

"Where would you like to go, Miss?" Keiko asked and showed her a covered basket. "Sir Allen gave us leave to spend all day outside if you like; I have our lunch right here." Celena felt her heart swell with gratitude at her brother's kindness; she hated not telling him the whole truth. But, if he knew? Mentally shrugging away the thought, she gazed about her, then gestured towards a meandering path that led towards the back of the mansion. The two girls started off, surrounded by birdsong and the sounds of the estate gearing up for another day: groomsmen laughing and shouting, horses snorting, squawks from the chicken coops as eggs were gathered, ringing blows from the smithy.

"Nicely done," Dilandau commented as they rounded the mansion and headed for the distant woods that lay past the meadow. " Dear Allen can't ever say no to you, can he?"

"Be quiet," she retorted. "Allen is wonderful and I love him dearly."

"Uh-huh. So, when do I get to come out and play?" Celena abruptly stopped, shocked, and Keiko ran into her from behind, sending both young women sprawling onto the meadow grass. He laughed as the maid sprang to her feet in alarm.

"Miss Celena, are you all right?" she exclaimed and Celena, her cheeks flaming in embarassment, let her pull her to her feet.

"I am so sorry, Keiko," she said. "I'm such a klutz!" She brushed the dust off her dress and, over the maid's protests, helped brush off her clothes as well.

"Are you insane?" she said to him as they resumed their way. She could feel Keiko's concerned eyes on her back and it made her very nervous.

"Aw, come on," he coaxed, "I've been stuck in here for so long. I won't do anything, I promise. I would just like to feel the sun on my face. Is that so bad?" They had topped a slight rise in the back meadow, and Celena stopped and turned about. The mansion stood in the distance, the stones reddish in the morning light, the many windows afire.

"Ahhhhh," he sighed in her head and she frowned.

"What?"

"Looks like it's burning," he whispered, "like before. . . but. . ." He fell silent and she turned to Keiko, who was also admiring the view.

"Oh, Miss Celena," the maid breathed, "It's so beautiful!"

"Yes, it is," she agreed with a smile, and gave her a quick hug, startling the maid but not displeasing her. They turned about and continued on towards the woods, stopping many times to admire the views about them. Dilandau didn't speak again and she was relieved. Just being outside was invigorating; freedom once again! She drew in a great breath and, stepping away from Keiko, suddenly spun about, her arms flung out and her face tilted up to the sun. Her foot caught on a root and she fell softly to the ground, laughing. He suddenly laughed as well, but there was no malice in it and she knew he was laughing with her for once, not at her. Keiko ran up and dropped to her knees, concerned.

"Are you hurt?" she asked and Celena shook her head, still laughing.

"I'm fine, Keiko!" she exclaimed. "I'm just so happy to be outside! Can we stay here for a little bit?" The maid looked about doubtfully.

"We're almost to the woods, Miss." Celena propped herself up on one elbow and looked curiously at her.

"Yes?" she replied. Keiko suddenly looked uncomfortable. She looked over at the nearby trees, then blushed.

"What is it?" Celena asked. The maid looked shyly back at her.

"I was hoping, Miss," she said in a low voice. "There's a friend that I haven't seen since Sir Allen's been away; he's in the woods. Oh, what was I thinking?" she exclaimed in dismay. "I'm supposed to be taking care of you!" Celena looked at her, confused.

"A friend?" Suddenly the blood rushed to her cheeks as she understood. She patted her maid's hand and smiled.

"Of, of course," she stammered out. "I'll stay right here. I won't tell anyone." Keiko looked at her doubtfully, then her face brightened. Impulsively she gave her mistress a hug.

"Oh, thank you Miss!" she said. "Just a little while, then I'll be back and we can have lunch." The young maid got lightly to her feet and was gone in an instant. Celena lay back down and smiled again. Poor Keiko! She has no freedom either, she thought sadly. At least she'll have some this morning.

"Well?" he asked suddenly.

"Well, what?"

"What do you think? This is too perfect! She'll be gone for about fifteen minutes at the least; plenty of time for. . ." She sat up and clutched her head.

"Stop it!" she cried. "You're NOT getting out!"

"Oh, right," he snarled back. "So you get to enjoy the sunshine and freedom and I get to rot down here." Celena felt a sudden stab of guilt, but she quelled it.

"No way," she declared. "If someone should see you. . ."

"No one will see," he said persuasively. "The grass is tall and Keiko's with her Œfriend'." He snorted. "I won't run amok. Do you think I want Allen's men coming after me? I don't even have a kitana to defend myself with." Celena could feel herself weakening. After all, she reveled in her escape from her rooms; how much more horrible must it be in that dark place? Then she quailed at the thought of the damp wall, the rusty chains.

"I won't spend time down there! It's too horrible," she whispered.

"But not too horrible for me, right?" he sneered. "Look," he continued coaxingly, "it's actually changed. After you freed me, the wall sort of melted too, and now it's been replaced with what looks like your study."

"Really?" she asked doubtfully.

"Really," he assured her, his voice caressing. "Come on," he continued, "it'll only be for a few minutes. Just a moment in the sun. OK?" Celena took a quick look around her; no one was in sight in the meadow or the woods.

"All right," she said hurriedly. "But only for a moment. . ."

"I promise," he whispered as she lay back and closed her eyes.

* * *

Dilandau's eyes flew open in shock; he couldn't breathe! A tight cloth band encircled his middle, paralizing his diaphragm. He tore open the tight bodice and ripped at the cords that laced up the band. He could feel whalebone slats biting into his ribs; the fragile-looking cords resisted his desperate pulling. He struggled to his knees, fighting the heavy drag of the voluminous skirts encircling his waist, and quickly unknotted the top of the laces. Yanking at the cords, he finally loosened up the band and dropped his hands on his knees, taking great whoops of air.

"What. . .," he gasped, "the HELL is this thing?!?"

"Sorry," he heard Celena say contritely, "It's a corset. I always wear one."

"DAMN," he cried out, still panting. There was a bright red band about his waist and he could feel the blood welling up where the bone stays had cut into him.

"Be quiet! Someone will hear you!" His breathing slowed and suddenly he felt a soft breeze stir his hair. He tilted his head up, eyes closed, and the sun caressed his face with gentle warmth.

"Ohhhhh," he sighed and fell back, his legs doubled under him and his arms thrown wide. The breeze ran along his bared neck and chest and he inhaled the fragrance of the wildflowers, intoxicated. Funny, he had never cared for these things before; but after that eternity chained to the wall, feeling the wind and sun upon his skin was heaven. But he quickly realized that this passive experience wouldn't be enough. Convincing Celena to let him out again shouldn't be too much of a problem, however: she was way too trusting. Allen had messed up in keeping her so naive, he thought sardonically. Then he smiled, enjoying the touch of the sun upon his face, until his ears picked up the sound of distant footsteps. It was coming from the woods.

"Keiko's coming back," he hissed. "Already?" He wistfully drew his fingers down his cheek, unconsciously tracing the scar, then dropped into the darkness.

* * *

Celena opened her eyes and sat up. He had been right: the room was much like her study, with a couple comfortable chairs and tables scattered about. Watching and listening through his eyes and ears had been an odd sensation but not too bad. She was glad to be back though. She looked down at herself and the blood rushed to her cheeks. Her bodice had been ripped open and the loosened corset rested on her hips, baring her breasts and stomach.

"Oh no!" she cried out and her hands flew to the laces, pulling up the cloth band and jerking at the cords in frantic haste. She could hear the footsteps getting louder as she worked. The corset cinched up in a flash and she was pulling her bodice about her, yanking out several hairpins to fasten the front in some semblence of the original closures. He laughed as she pricked her finger with a pin and she snarled at him.

"Hurry, hurry, hurry," he chanted, still laughing. "What will Keiko think?"

"Be quiet!" she shouted at him, yanking out another hairpin. Her carefully coiled hair cascaded down her back but she took no notice, desperately trying to fasten the last part of the bodice without poking herself again. She succeeded, just as Keiko came into view. The young maid's eyes were starry and she had a faint blush on her cheeks, but otherwise looked the same as she did when she had left. Celena smiled a welcome, praying that she wouldn't notice anything amiss.

"Keiko," she said tentatively, "Do you think perhaps we could go back to the mansion? I'm kind of tired. . ."

"Of course, Miss," the maid smiled and drew her to her feet. Celena felt the strained seams of her bodice's armholes open in the back, but she managed to hold the rents closed by keeping her arms at her sides. Actually, she doubted that the maid even saw her. Celena studied Keiko as they walked back through the meadow. What must it be like to feel like that about someone? She looks so happy, and they only must have spent a mere five minutes together. The mansion loomed up before them and Keiko escorted her to her room before taking leave of her.

"I'll let Sir Allen know you've come back, and perhaps the two of you could have lunch together after your nap," the maid said with an absent smile. "And, thank you again," she added shyly as she closed the door. Celena waited until she heard the familiar click of the lock, then stripped off the ruined bodice and began to unlace the tight corset, wincing as the cloth brushed the fresh cuts along her ribs.

"You're going to stop wearing those," Dilandau commanded and she sighed.

"This is the proper attire of a lady," she said patiently, ignoring his snort of derision. "And I will not dress like a stablehand so you can be comfortable." Her hands went to the small of her back to undo the long skirt and petticoats.

"Besides," she continued, "what makes you think you'll get another chance to come out?" She stepped out of the pile of cloth and reached for her nightgown. Slipping on the soft silk, she walked over to her vanity and sat down, undoing the last of the hairpins and picking up her brush.

"Nothing happened, did it?" he asked softly. "We didn't get caught, and surely you wouldn't be so cruel as to deny me a little sensation every now and then?"

"Well. . ." She brushed her hair, watching the pale gold curls bounce back up from under the bristles. "Dilandau," she said, putting down the brush and studying herself in the mirror, "have you ever been in love?"

"What do you think?" he growled at her. She sighed and softly stroked her hair.

"Did you see Keiko? She looked so happy, so dreamy. . ."

"It's overrated." She stopped and sat up straight.

"What?"

"What is all this nonsense?" he snarled. "I think the Zaibach sorcerors did the right thing in making you into me. I didn't waste any time on this crap."

"Oh, no, you just killed and burned and destroyed. . ." Celena stopped, her throat closing in a sob. She would never be free, she realized in dismay. The shadow of what she had been would always be upon her. And just when she thought that she had escaped her horrible inheritance, he had to reappear. Overhwelmed, she bowed her head and cried.

"Hey, what's this," he said uncomfortably. "It'll be all right. . ." She ignored him, tears streaming down her cheeks and her shoulders shaking.

"I'm sorry," he said. "Look, I'll find those chains and lock myself up again, OK?" She laughed suddenly at the thought and ran a hand over her eyes.

"Why are you being nice?" she asked suspiciously and he gave his familiar mocking laugh.

"We are one, remember?" he said, and he sounded surprised at his own reply.

* * *

Van Fanel sat crosslegged, facing the wall of his meditation room, and tried to relax. He was exhausted from yet another day of dealing with the constant stresses of ruling Fanlia, his mind racing from one problem to the next. The rebuilding of the kingdom was going well, but there were constant crises to deal with, not to mention the strain of convincing the neighboring kingdoms that, yes, Fanlia was a viable state and not up for grabs. He forced his clenched hands to relax and tried to slow his whirling thoughts. But after several minutes, he conceded defeat and got gracefully to his feet. His hand brushed the breast pocket of his jacket and he could hear the crackle of Allen's letter. It had been about a month since the Knight Caeli had visited him with the startling news of Dilandau's return. Allen's letter reported no strange occurrences or appearances; but he did mention that his sister was taking an active interest in the more physical arts. Van gritted his teeth: he had never met Celena, but from what Allen had told him about her, this seemed to him a suspicious change of character. Why would a retiring gentlewoman suddenly start learning Tai Chi and horseback riding? Van's hands clenched into fists, his hatred starting to rise.

"He won't come back," he snarled in the still air. "I won't let him." The young king left the small room and went into his bedroom. He took up his swordbelt and buckled it on, then rang for his valet and, when the man appeared at the door, ordered him to pack up enough clothes to last a couple weeks.

"Where are we going, my lord?" the valet asked as he pulled out some luggage from a closet and began opening chest drawers. Van turned and looked out one of the bedroom windows, one hand grasping his kitana hilt.

"Asturia," he replied with a growl.

* * *

Dilandau reined up his horse and surveyed the landscape before him. The meadows stretched out before him, gently rolling hills dotted with the occasional stream and shrub line. Perfect.

"I don't know about this. . ." Celena said doubtfully in his head. He tossed his silver hair out of his eyes as the horse pranced underneath him, straining to be released.

"Relax, Celena," he drawled. "I know what I'm doing. I still can't believe Allen let you take Kaze out. After all, he is a little fiery for you, isn't he?"

"My arms are still trembling from holding him in," she replied. "He's so strong."

"And with a mind of his own," he added, keeping a firm hold on the reins. The horse pawed the ground and snorted, trying without success to break free. Dilandau felt a thrill at mastering this powerful beast, capping the experience of a perfect summer day. This last month had been excellent - Celena was a quick study in Tai Chi, so he was able to use half of her exercise hour to work with the kendo swords that were stored in the gym where she practiced. It felt so good to hold a sword in his hands again, even if it was just a wooden one. He looked down at the loose exercise shirt and pants he was wearing with approval.

"You must drown in these clothes," he murmured and she laughed, the sound ringing pleasantly in his head.

"Lucky for you Allen doesn't have a clue as to my size. He just OK'd what I requested. He's really wonderful. . ." Dilandau shrugged impatiently, suddenly irritated.

"Yeah, yeah, yeah," he snarled. "I know all about how great Dear Brother Allen is."

"Don't forget that he didn't argue when I asked to do both my katas and my riding alone."

"Female modesty!" he snorted. "I can't believe he bought that!" He scowled as he felt her disapproval.

"He loves me, Dilandau," she said quietly. "He doesn't believe me capable of such deceit." The disapproval faded into sadness and for some reason that troubled him.

"Come on, Celena," he said encouragingly. "Let's see what this lazy animal can do!" He loosened the reins and kicked the horse's sides; it leaped forward and charged down the slope with a speed that took his breath away. They galloped through the field and suddenly there was a brook in front of them. Kaze jumped it effortlessly and he laughed in delight.

"Oh, faster, Dilandau, faster!" Celena cried out and he urged the horse to an even greater speed, the hoofbeats thunder now as they hit a roadway. A fence loomed ahead and he steered towards it, the blood singing in his veins.

"No, wait. . ." she gasped, but he ignored her and called out encouragingly to his mount. She screamed in terror as the horse gathered itself and he shouted laughter as it launched up and cleared the fence by mere inches. He almost lost his seat as they landed with a slight stumble, but managed to hang on and rein Kaze in. They slowed and stopped in the middle of a mown lawn, a small woods stretching out to the left.

"Get off this insane creature, RIGHT NOW!" she shouted at him and he complied, grinning. He could feel her shaking with reaction; it didn't occur to him to wonder at this increased perception.

"What's the matter, Celena?" he asked innocently. "I thought you liked riding."

"What were you thinking?" she scolded. "I can't believe you . . ." A gentle breezed blew by and the horse jerked its head up, nostrils flaring. Dilandau caught the scent of smoke. . .

"What it is?" she asked. He didn't answer, turning like a pointing hound towards the woods. There was a thin white haze slowly rolling out from between the trees.

"There's a fire," he said and, after tying Kaze to one of the outermost trees, walked into the woods, following the intoxicating scent to its source. A few minutes later he found it: a poorly dowsed campfire slowly reviving. The logs were still smoldering, the smaller sticks already crackling with yellow flames. Dilandau stared at it, mesmerized, feeling the heat on his skin. Fire. . .

"Burn," he whispered and a wide smile appeared on his face.

"Well, what are you waiting for?" she demanded, startling him. "Put it out or else this whole forest will go up!" Dilandau slid to his knees, his vision obscured with the images of trees burning, houses burning, people screaming and running in terror.

"Oh, yes," he murmured. "I had forgotten. . ." The fire grew, feeding off the bigger logs, and he watched the lovely red-yellow flames as they devoured the wood. Soon, he knew, they would spread and spread, annihilating everything in their path. There was a roaring in his ears now and he recognized it from his life before: massive sheets of flame shooting from his Alseides guymelef as he set buildings, towns, kingdoms on fire. Lovely fire. . .

"DILANDAU!" Celena shouted and he blinked, shocked at the anger in her voice. "PUT. . .IT. . .OUT!!" He scowled.

"No way," he growled. "I didn't start it and it would serve whoever did right. They should know better than to. . ."

"NOW!!!" He winced as he felt the force of her fury directed at him. It stunned him; this was so unlike her. Then he heard the crackling of the fire and rallied.

"No," he said smugly. "What are you going to do about it?"

"You will never get to use this body again!"

"Who says I'll let you come out?" She was silent for a moment, then radiated cold anger. He shivered in response. This was so unlike her. . . Dilandau stared at the flames, fighting sudden doubt.

"They will cut you down like a dog," she said and laughed. "A fitting end for the commander of the Zaibach Empire's elite Dragonslayers, wouldn't you say?" He leapt to his feet with a cry of anger.

"How dare you say that!" he shouted at her but she just laughed at him again. He clutched his head, staring down at the growing campfire, then with a cry of frustration he ran up and began to stomp it out. The flames evaded his feet and he knelt down beside them, clawing up handfuls of dirt and pounding them into the wood, beating the remains into the ground with gasps of fury. When all had been buried, he threw himself onto his back, glaring up at the treetops.

"Find your own way home," he snarled and dove into the darkness.

* * *

The sun was setting when Celena rode into the mansion grounds, utterly exhausted. Her arms and shoulders ached from holding Kaze in; the horse was extremely frustrated at this change of masters, and he was so strong! George, the head groomsman, ran up to her and grabbed the bridle. Celena smiled her thanks and slid to the ground, ignoring the man's surprised look as he took in her dirt and smoked streaked face, grimy hands and dirty clothes.

"We've been worried, Miss Celena," he said. "Are you all right?" She put on a dazzling smile and even managed to laugh lightly.

"I'm such a silly!" she exclaimed. "I got lost and managed to take a tumble off of Kaze a few times, as you can see." George smiled, bowed and led the horse away, while she started for the main entrance. How she was going to climb up all those steps to the great double doors, she didn't know. She was so tired. What a horrible experience, and the day had started so well, she thought sorrowfully. Suddenly the big wooden doors slammed open and Allen ran down to her.

"Celena!" he cried out. "Where have you been? We've been searching for you for hours!" Tears sprang from her eyes and flowed down her cheeks.

"Oh, Allen!" She buried herself in his arms, a feeling of utter security flooding her. She couldn't lie to him anymore. Suddenly, she felt Dilandau's presence: he was anxious, bordering on terrified.

"Celena, please don't. . ." he started and she angrily cut him off.

"I will tell him! I'm tired of this game! Everyone is right about you and I can't take it anymore!"

"But, what will happen to you?" His question startled her; she hadn't thought of that. But she realized that it didn't matter, just so long as this monster was stopped.

"I don't care. I hate you, and whatever they can do to hurt you is worth whatever happens to me." He was silent, but she could feel his sudden, shocked pain.

"You, you hate me?" he stammered out. "That can't be. . ."

"Be quiet!" she snarled and, for once, he was. By now she had a terrible headache and she just couldn't deal with anything more tonight. She looked up at her brother and was surprised - their conversation must have been lightning fast, for he was still holding her close, his eyes closed.

"Allen?" she said worriedly and he opened his eyes and smiled down at her.

"I'm just so glad you're home, Celena," he said and scooped her up, starting up the steps with ease. Keiko was waiting in her rooms, and the maid gave a cry of distress upon seeing her. Celena caught sight of herself in the vanity mirror and suddenly laughed. She looked like an escaped lunatic. How appropriate, she thought ironically as she took a warm bath and scrubbed herself clean. She smilingly dismissed the still- worried Keiko, put on a nightgown and began brushing her hair. The rhythmic strokes soothed her nerves and she sighed, thinking about how she was going to tell her brother that, in fact, the psychotic from Zaibach had returned.

* * *

She awoke to find her bedroom filled with bright early morning sunshine. She could sense Dilandau, but only faintly; as though he were preoccupied. Or asleep. Celena sighed and hugged herself, thinking it over, then closed her eyes and dropped into the darkness.

He was sitting facing one of the study walls when she appeared, meditating. Celena noticed that the room had changed once again: it was bare of furniture and the wooden floor was covered with tatmi mats. A stark place, she thought, but restful in its simplicity.

"Yes?" he asked quietly, startling a gasp from her.

"I didn't know you meditated," she said lamely and he rose to his feet and turned to face her.

"I've heard it clears the mind and calms passions," he replied with a half- smile. "It doesn't seem to work very well, though." He looked at her curiously.

"Aren't you afraid I'll take over?" he asked and she shook her head.

"Where could you go?" she asked. "Allen would find you and that would be that." She sank to the floor, settling herself comfortably on her knees, and he came up and sat crosslegged, facing her.

"I have spent all night staring at that damn wall, trying to figure out what we can do," he said. "All I can conclude is that yes, you do need to tell Allen about me." Celena blinked in surprise, then frowned and studied him suspiciously. The large red eyes were clear and the pale face composed. Still. . . He smiled at her distrust.

"I like this new you," he drawled. "A backbone suits you." She gasped in anger and he laughed, then sobered. "You can't help what happened to you," he said earnestly. "It's not right for me to be here. However, I can't see a way of leaving without dying; and that would kill you as well." He gestured to the room about them. "I even looked for the wall, hoping to chain myself up again, but I can't find it." Celena shook her head, confused.

"Why would you want to do that?" she asked.

"I won't be content to stay down here all the time," he replied. "And I can't change who I am."

"You did put out the fire." He smiled wryly.

"This time. But the next?" His eyes took on an odd, insane glow and she shivered. "I can't describe to you what an incredible rush fire is to me. Stronger than anything I know. I'd forgotten how wonderful it was, but now I remember. I can't control the longing." Celena felt a stab of terror and quelled it.

"Well, I just won't let you out again," she said reassuringly and he suddenly laughed.

"I can get out anytime I want. I've been able to after the first time." Her mouth opened in shock.

"What?" she gasped. "How do you know?"

"I've done it while you've been asleep," he said smugly, but she smiled and shook her head.

"I bet anyone could do that." His face darkened.

"Oh really?" he snarled. "Well, just go on up there and let's give it a whirl. You can't resist me." Celena tsk'd impatiently.

"We don't have time for this," she said. "Keiko will be coming soon to wake me, and then I'm going to send for Allen." Dilandau scowled.

"He'll probably just lock us up again and this time it'll be forever." Celena was filled with dread at the thought, and she shuddered. He reached over and touched her hand.

"I'm sorry," he said. "I wish I could find a better solution." She looked at him but he was gazing down at her hand, held lightly in his.

"Dilandau," she said softly, "I think you are wrong about yourself. You can change." He looked up then and she was surprised by the sadness in his eyes.

"You better go," was all he said.

* * *

Allen knocked gently on his sister's bedroom door, his brow furrowed in thought. Why did she request his audience so early in the morning? Keiko had assured him that her mistress was fine; apparently completely recovered from yesterday's adventure. What a scare she had given him! He had been too hasty in giving her so much freedom, Allen realized; from now on she would have a constant companion.

"Come in," he heard her say and he opened the door, smiling at the sight of her beautiful face beaming at him from the bed. She was sitting up, the covers pulled modestly up to her waist. He walked over and sat down on the edge of the bed.

"Now, what's the rush?" he asked with a smile, taking her hands in his. "Are you feeling any ill effects from yesterday?"

"Only my wounded vanity - I looked terrible!" she said with a grimace and he laughed. She smiled, then grew serious.

"Oh, Allen," she said. "This is so hard for me to say." He felt an unexpected terror - what made her so solemn? He smiled reassuringly.

"What is it?" he asked gently. "You can tell me anything." She looked up at him, the large grey-blue eyes anxious, and he squeezed her hands. "It's OK," he said. She bit her lip, then looked away from him.

"Dilandau's back," she whispered and he froze, shocked.

"What?" he asked incredulously. She looked back at him and nodded.

"He's been with me ever since that first time," she said softly. "But it's been all right." His mouth dropped open.

"All right?" he repeated, amazed. "Has he hurt you? Done anything?" He stared at her, his mind was whirling. She was shaking her head, tugging at his hands.

"No, no, no," she said. "It's kind of hard to explain. But what's important is that we can't be separated, and he's afraid that eventually he'll take over. . ." She stopped and seemed to be listening to someone. "I'm doing my best," she muttered and Allen, shocked anew, realized that she must be talking to him.

This is impossible, he thought, I can't believe it. Perhaps Celena was suffering from some sort of nervous breakdown? All that isolation, the constant threat of Dilandau's return. . . Of course, that was it. He smiled and said her name softly. She looked up at him and he was warmed by the trust in her eyes.

"Do you think" he said gently, "that perhaps you are imagining all of this? If Dilandau was truly there, he would have taken you over. He's a raging maniac; he would have immediately torched the mansion, for starters." She looked at him in hurt surprise, then frowned angrily.

"Have I ever lied to you?" she demanded and Allen shook his head, speechless at his gentle sister's attitude. He had never seen her angry before; upset, yes, but not in this way.

"Celena," he said soothingly, "you may believe what you say, but think about this for a moment. . ." She gave a short sigh of impatience and took her hands out of his. Turning her face away, she again looked like she was listening.

"All right, all right," she said softly, then crossed her arms and looked back at him. "If he shows himself, will you believe me?" she asked and he smiled, perplexed.

"I suppose so," he replied, but she wasn't finished.

"You've got to promise not to cut him with your sword," she said and he laughed incredulously.

"Dilandau Albatou afraid of battle?" he asked with a grin, but sobered as she looked at him coldly.

"No," she said sarcastically and he frowned. "But cutting his skin means cutting mine, and he says he has enough scars for both of us." She was looking at him quite angrily, and he decided that he didn't like that. What had happened to his gentle Celena to change her so? Humor her, humor her, he thought, then I'll get the best doctors in the land to help her.

"All right," he said softly. "I promise." She sighed and set about loosening her nightgown's snug wrists and neckline.

"He's quite a bit bigger than me," she said in response to his raised eyebrows. "Now," she continued when she was done, "he says he'll only be out for a few moments, so try not to overreact." Really, thought Allen, this is incredible. She truly believes. . . Then he gave a startled cry.

Dilandau Albatou was sitting in front of him in his sister's nightgown, arms crossed, red eyes glaring, lips curved in a contemptuous sneer. Allen's kitana sppeared in his hand as if by magic and leapt up, stopping just inches from the white neck.

"Dilandau!" he snarled. The young man rolled his eyes.

"Now do you believe her?" he snorted. Then he was gone, replaced by his dear sister. She looked up at him, eyes wide with fear as she noted the blade so close to her. Allen dropped the sword onto the floor and once again took her hands.

"Oh, Celena," he said mournfully. "What a mess!"

* * *

"I never realized Allen could be so dense," Dilandau snarled. Celena sighed as she wound her exercise belt around her waist.

"Would you have believed me?" she asked, rolling up the cuffs of the oversized jacket. "We're sort of unique." He snorted.

"Some solution he came up with," he said. "Move to the Duchy of Hamat? That's nowhere!" Celena scowled as she sat down and began rolling the pants cuffs up to her ankles.

"Exactly," she replied shortly. "It's located on the other side of the Zaibach Empire, practically on the edge of the world. And," she continued, "no one knows us there." She coiled her hair up and secured it to the top of her head, giving a short sigh as the inevitable stray ringlets escaped and fell about her face.

"So he's going to drop us down in the middle of that backwater and leave us," he sneered.

"Dilandau!" she snapped. "What else can he do? We can't stay here, and he'll make sure we've everything we need to make it. He surely can't move there with us. . ." A tear rolled down her cheek and she wiped it away. "Oh, Allen," she whispered forlonly.

"Oh, come on, Celena," he said coaxingly. "It'll be OK. Let's go and work out like he suggested."

"All right," she said and got to her feet. She felt him grimace.

"I just hate it when you're right," he growled. She shook her head, smiling, then left the room and headed for the gym. It was on the opposite side of the mansion, and she had time to think about her brother's request. They had been sitting on the bed, working out the details of the trip, when Keiko had knocked and opened the door, a paper in her hand.

"Sir Allen," the young maid had said, "There's an envoy from Fanalia at the gate, requesting an audience." She handed him the paper and Allen casually scanned it. Then he paled.

"Oh, no," he breathed. Alarmed, she put her hand on his arm.

"Allen?" she asked and he stared at her, his blue eyes troubled. Then his face cleared and he smiled.

"It's nothing," he said lightly and stood. She followed suit, still worried.

"Listen," he said, "the sooner we take off the better. I'll go take care of this envoy, then get everything ready for the trip. We'll take off tomorrow morning at the latest." He stuffed the paper into his jacket pocket and smiled down at her.

"There's not much else for you to do before we take off. Why don't you kill some time in the gym?"

"OK," she replied with a smile and he hugged her, then turned on his heel and left. She let Keiko leave as well, then found her exercise outfit and put it on.

Now she was pattering down the stone corridors, trying not to think about what life would be like without him beside her, taking care of her. I won't be alone, at least, she thought, and drew comfort from that.

"Never alone again," she whispered and felt Dilandau's answering smile. Celena rounded a corner and came upon a young man, his arms crossed, leaning against the wall. Opposite of him was the closed entrance of the main audience hall. He was tall, dressed in the dark red-brown military uniform of Fanalia, with unruly black hair and large amber eyes. He turned to look at her. . .

"VAN!" Dilandau screamed in rage and she stumbled, gasping at the sudden, intense pain in her head. She clutched her temples as the man swiftly approached her, concerned.

"LET ME OUT!! I'M GONNA KILL HIM!" Dilandau screeched and suddenly she felt an incredibly strong pull inside her head, yanking her down into the darkness.

"NO!" she screamed at him, fighting him with all her might.

"HE KILLED MY DRAGONSLAYERS! HE CUT MY FACE!!"

"Miss, are you all right?" the young man asked and she barely heard him, using all her strength to fight that terrible pull. She cried out as another blast of pain tore through her and he caught her in his arms as she collapsed.

"STOP IT!" she screamed down at him. "You'll get us killed!" He howled back at her and she focused herself, intent on shutting him out completely. After a seeming eternity, she felt him fading beneath her, crying out in frustration and cursing her. Then all that was left was a faint sense of his presence and a terrible headache.

She opened her eyes to find the man, a complete stranger to her, holding her in his arms and staring down at her, the handsome features etched with concern. He was clasping her tightly against him to keep her from falling, and the blood rushed to her cheeks in embarassment.

"Miss?" he asked hesistantly.

"I'm, I'm all right," she stammered out and he loosened his hold, letting her settle back onto her feet. She smiled through the bright pain as he stepped back, and he smiled in return. He was about to speak when the hall door opened and Allen came out.

"Celena!" he exclaimed in surprise. The man looked from her to her brother, then back to her.

"This is Celena?" he asked softly, and the amber eyes grew cold. Then he drew himself up and bowed.

"I'm Van Fanal," he said and smiled, but she shivered at the lingering chill in his eyes. She dropped a curtsey, feeling a little ridiculous as she was dressed in jacket and pants, then winced as she bobbed her throbbing head.

"Celena Schezar, my lord," she replied, then, with one hand reaching up to gently touch her temple, turned towards her brother.

"Allen, I have the most terrible headache. I'll have to skip the katas for today, I'm afraid." Allen, who had been frozen in the doorway, managed a smile.

"Of course, my dear," he said. "You should take some rest." He gestured toward the waiting man. "Lord Van and I have some business to attend to, then I'll come up and see how you are." Van smiled warmly at her and she heard a scream of rage from below.

"Quiet, you," she growled inside. "You know I can keep you down there."

"Will you be joining us for dinner?" the young man asked. Allen shook his head and smiled apologetically.

"I'm dreadfully sorry," the Knight Caeli said, "But Lady Celena suffers from a severe form of headache. They usually last for hours, and the doctor has given us strict orders that, should one come on, she must take to her bed until morning." She could have kissed Allen for that, for Van, dissapointment showing on his face, nodded sympathetically and bowed onceagain.

"I hope you recover quickly, my lady. And we get the chance to meet again," he said softly, then the two men entered the audience hall and she was able to escape. She flew to her room, both hands clutching her aching head, and threw herself on the bed. She started shaking uncontrollably; her heart pounding. That charming man frightened the wits out of her. Those cold eyes. . .

"I think he knows," she whispered.

"I could have taken care of him," Dilandau growled.

"Oh, right," she snapped. "Just grabbed his kitana and cut his head off. What's the score between you two so far?"

"I had the element of surprise," he snarled.

"I don't think so," she replied. The pain was fading now and her heart slowing to its normal pulse. "Allen said that he was going to talk to some people about you after our first meeting, and I'm guessing Lord Van was one of them." She was still shaking and she tried to control it, without success.

"What are we going to do?" she wailed.

"Hey, don't panic, Celena," he said quickly. "I didn't come out, remember? He doesn't know for sure. We'll take off tonight and be gone before he realizes what's up." She sat up in surprise, her shaking stilled.

"Don't you want to kill him?"

"More than anything! But. . ." he stopped.

"Yes?" He gave a short sigh.

"It's more important that you get away," he said quietly.

"But. . ." He cut her off.

"Let's think about how we're gonna get out of here without anyone noticing, OK?"

Celena was about to reply when her door opened and Allen walked in. He closed it behind him and came over to her, his face grim. Sudden fear flooded her as she scrambled off the bed and stood before him. He studied her for a moment, then smiled reassuringly.

"OK," he started. "I think I've thrown him off. What happened out there in the corridor?"

"I ran into him and Dilandau freaked out," she replied, ignoring the instant inner protest. "Luckily," she continued, "I was able to keep him in and not say anything." Allen was looking at her in admiration and she flushed with pleasure.

"You did well," he said warmly. "Van's pretty suspicious, but he seems to be buying the headache theory." Her brother frowned, looking suddenly sad.

"He's a good man, Celena. Dilandau's done some unforgivable things to him."

"Like I haven't paid for them," she heard him snarl in her head. "Bastard."

"Quiet. Please," she whispered and he fell silent. Allen was looking at her and she focused her attention back onto him.

"What now?" she asked.

"Well, I'll have dinner with him, then he should retire with his retinue in the eastern guest quarters." He gently grasped her shoulders, his blue eyes suddenly intent.

"Don't leave these rooms for anything! I'll send Keiko out on some errand so she won't be around. Wait until the sun starts to set, then ride to the landing at the top of the falls. I'll get to my airship and pick you up." He let go and stepped back, studying her.

"Keep what you've got on and don't worry about packing anything. Nothing matters but getting you away before Van catches on. All right?" She nodded, sudden tears filling her eyes and running down her cheeks. He reached over and gently brushed them away, then unbuckled his sword belt and handed her his kitana.

"Take this, just in case," he said quietly. Celena held the sheathed sword out in front her, gaping at him in astonishment.

"I don't know how to use this!" she exclaimed. Allen's lips quirked in a half-smile.

"Dilandau does," he replied and left the room, closing the door softly behind him.

* * *

Van stood alone in the shelter of a small stand of trees, watching the reddened ball of the sun slowly setting. The roar of the falls faintly came up to him from the bottom of the cliff far below; he could see the airship landing in front of him, the grassy lawn wet with perpetual spray from the falls. He smiled grimly. Allen was smooth, but he hadn't been out in the corridor when he had encountered Celena. The young king's breath caught as he remembered that first sight of her, the ethereal beauty of her face framed in the pale blonde curls. His heart had almost stopped when she had cried out in pain and stumbled; it had felt quite right to catch her to him when she fell. But then she had spoken.

"Stop it!" she had whispered. "You'll get us killed!" And he had faintly sensed a great struggle within her. It had confused him, but he'd suddenly understood when Allen had come out and revealed who this perplexing, enchanting creature was. Celena Schezar. Formerly Dilandau Albatou.

Van was no fool. He had noticed that Allen was just a little too casual during their meeting; a little too glib in brushing off his concerns about the possible return of the monster. So he played along, not mentioning what he had heard; his mind racing as to what the Knight Caeli was planning. He realized that Allen meant to spirit her away, and when one his scouts, carefully hidden in the cavern that housed Allen's airship, reported that the knight had entered the ship with his crew, Van immediately thought of the landing at the top of the falls. Shortly before the Great War, Allen, enclosed in his guymelef and holding Van and Hitomi in one massive metal hand, had leapt onto his ship from there. They had been escaping from Dilandau and his Dragonslayers, and he smiled at the irony of the present situation.

He had ridden like a madman to the site and now waited, arms crossed, determination hardening his features. Van jerked his head up; he could hear distant hoofbeats, growing rapidly louder. He unsheathed his kitana and waited, watching as a bay horse trotted up and stopped. A cloaked, hooded figure quickly dismounted and he wasn't surprised to see the fair face and pale gold curls emerge as the dark hood was thrown back. Celena looked about, then tied the horse to a low-hanging branch and hurried towards the landing. He stepped out in front of her as she neared the edge of the cliff, and she stopped with a gasp of alarm.

"Lord Van!" she exclaimed, her face instantly pale. He noted that she had a sword belted loosely about her waist, but she didn't draw it, only stared at him with fear-filled eyes. Again he was struck by her beauty, but he didn't hesitate when she started to back away. He stuck his kitana in the ground and leapt forward, grabbing her upper arms in a painful grip. She cried out in terror and the sound tore at him, but he kept his resolve.

"I know he's with you," he said harshly. "I can't let you go!"

"No, no!" she gasped and he began shaking her hard, causing her hair to fly about her face.

"He's a monster!" he shouted at her. "He burned my entire kingdom to the ground! He must be brought to justice!"

"No! Please, you're hurting me!" she wailed, her eyes now filled with tears, but he kept his hold upon her, frustration overwhelming him. Then he felt the slender arms grow hard with muscle and suddenly Dilandau was standing there, red eyes blazing in anger.

"Leave her alone!" he shouted and shoved on Van's chest with incredible strength, breaking his hold and causing him to stagger back. His arms windmilled wildly as he struggled to keep his balance; then he stepped back onto air. . .

"Ahhhh!" he cried out and twisted forward, managing to catch onto the wet grass at the very edge of the cliff. His body dangled above the river that lay hundreds of feet below, and he grunted with the effort of keeping his slowly slipping grip on the lawn. He looked up to see Dilandau staring down at him. A slow smile curved the pale lips and the red eyes blazed again as man drew his kitana with a flourish. The scar along his cheek glared out in the white skin, reddened by the setting sun.

"Goodbye, Van," he said and brought the sword up over his head. Van immediately thought of letting go his precarious grip, denying him of the pleasure of killing him, but he stopped as he saw him hesitate. Dilandau cocked his head to one side and his features twisted into an impatient scowl.

"For God's sake, Celena," he snarled, ignoring him. "You know he won't stop until I'm dead." Van renewed his efforts to find some kind of purchase on the cliff. His cautiously exploring feet only caused him to slide faster off the wet grass, so he kept his legs still and worked at pulling himself up. Then he heard a faint sound from above.

He looked up and gasped: Dilandau was bending forward, holding out his hand for him to grasp. He had sheathed his kitana and was glaring at him.

"Well?" he said sarcastically. "You want to live or not?" Van reached up and gripped his forearm, astonishment robbing him of speech. Dilandau pulled him up and backed up a couple steps, crossing his arms and smiling sardonically as the young king snatched his sword up from the ground and held it at the ready. Still smiling, he unbuckled his own sword belt and tossed the kitana away, then dropped to his knees.

"Celena says that she doesn't care to spend the rest of her life running from you, and I have to admit it does sound pretty tedious," Dilandau said in a bored tone. "So," he continued, "go ahead and kill me. Rid Gaia of the monster." Van glared at him, drawing his sword up and back in preparation to strike.

"Is this some kind of trick?" he demanded. "Why did you save me?" Dilandau snorted.

"I told you he wouldn't get it," he growled. "You should have just let me kill him. It was soooo perfect. . ."

"Hey!" Van shouted and he looked up at him. "I'm the one with the sword here, remember?" A deep hum suddenly started from below, and both men glanced over the edge of the cliff. Allen's airship was emerging from the falls. Dilandau smirked.

"Better hurry with your decision, Van," he sneered. "Else you'll have to fight Allen again. . ." With an exasperated sigh, Van sheathed his sword.

"All right," he said quietly. "I won't try to follow you." Rage suddenly shook him and he growled at the kneeling figure.

"But if I ever see you again, you will die." Dilandau laughed at him and he suddenly thought of just doing him in, once and for all. Then he calmed down.

"Let me see Celena." Dilandau rolled his eyes and suddenly she was there, staring up at him with those perfect grey-blue eyes. He stepped up and drew her to her feet as the deep humming approached from below.

"Thank you," she whispered and he tightened his hold on her hands.

"I. . ." he started but now the airship was almost upon them and she gently pulled her hands out of his. He faded back into the trees and watched as she retrieved the kitana and faced the ship. The outer door opened and Allen stepped out onto the short entrance ramp, beckoning her forward with a worried frown. She turned her face towards Van and shyly smiled at him, then entered the ship, the metal door closing behind her.