Eating quietly, Cain slowly made his way around the castle, ignoring the odd stares he collected. It wasn't their place to judge him, he only allowed what -he- wanted to dictate his actions. At least, now he did. It wasn't always that way, not that it mattered now. Love was just another word for pain, in his opinion. The kind that didn't make him stronger. The walls in his heart had been built high and wide, very few ever managed to breach them. Those that did, died anyway. So why did this Lloyd want so much for them to bond? Did he wish his precious princess to die? I think he's the one that needs healing. shaking his head at the ridiculousness of the situation, he continued to the center of the castle. Having strolled into the courtyard, he was drawn to the center, where several of the guards were sparring with wooden swords. After watching them carefully from a distance, he found himself moving up to the circle of guards, enthralled by the sparring. Two men were engaging in trading lightning blows, their strengths almost even. Almost. Then the lesser overextended his reach, and was taken off his feet by a vicious strike. Their drew booth cheers and boos from the surrounding guards, and gasps from all the young women. Cain smirked, wondering what they would do if he were to take center ring. As if reading his mind, the victor of the previous bout caught his eye and asked:
"Well well, if it isn't our prince to be. Care to test your mettle with Adela's finest?"
Cain grinned, and replied " Don't mind if I do." He reached for the blades at his side... and then finally pinpointed what had been missing. My blades are gone! The twin blades that he had long ago melded with his flesh had been removed, taking away his only constant companion. This must have been Lloyd. He thought with Venom. Never mind, it's to late now. He grabbed the sparring sword that was tossed at him, and then held out his other hand. The guard raised his eyebrow, but nodded and Cain was given a second sword. The man who spoke stepped out of the circle, saying
"Who wishes to fight him first?" A young guard, eyes full of ambition and what was probably pride, quickly moved into the circle.
"I will challenge him."
"Very well Stephan, you may attempt first."
Cain stepped into the circle of guards, and crossed his swords in salute. Stephan smirked, saluting loosely with his own weapon. Cain made to move, but then stopped, looking around the circle curiously.
"Only one at a time? Why not three?"
The guards burst out in laughter, one of them maneging:
"Why don't we see how well you fair against one first, boy."
"Very well..." Cain's eyes went cold, emotion draining from them. Stephan, to his credit, noticed the change, ending his mirth and raising his guard. Cain took two steps towards him, then leaped into the air, striking twice before landing behind Stephan. Silence replaced the laughter, and for a moment no-one moved. Then, Stephan wobbled unsteadily, and fell, sword clattering to the ground. Cain rose from his crouch, dusting himself off. The guards looked at him with newfound respect, and no small amount of animosity. They did not appreciate one of their own being taken down by a princeling. Not that it mattered Cain wasn't one yet, it was all the same to them.
"Ok, we'll do it your way this time. Three on one. Prepare yourself, Young prince."
"Feel free to add however many you want, I might break a sweat that way." Cain did a quick sidestep to dodge an early swipe, and then the fight was on, three guards working together to take him down. As for Cain, he was a whirling combination of blocks and thrusts, managing to strike yet not be struck. After no more then 15 seconds, one of the guards was down, and another quickly replaced him. Cain soon found himself woven into a tight triangle, being forced to stay on the defensive or risk a blow. Jumping straight up into the air, He kicked two guards in the face, twisting as he fell to catch the last one with a sword. All three fell. With slightly labored breathing, Cain smiled at the remaining guards.
"Who's next?"
Five guards drew their swords. Now it gets interesting. Cain gave his best predatory grin. "I love stacked odds." was all he said before becoming occupied in more pressing matters. In the midst of the brawl, he was naught but a wraith, bringing down exacting vengeance on those who made mistakes. Soon only a one guard remained standing. He eyed the fallen guards disdainfully, standing off to the side of the battle. He was the one who had been victorious in the first bout, the one who had invited Cain into the circle. Looking up from his unconscious comrades, he stated:
"I guess that just leaves me."
Cain, breathing heavily, sweat glistening on his brow, merely nodded, and signaled with his sword that he was ready.
"Very well, if you don't think you need a rest..." Cain barely had time to block the lightning blow of the sword as the guard spun by him, forcing Cain to pivot to keep facing him. While the other guards attacked without great strategy, partly do to the confusion and partly by Cain's tactics, this Guard was smart, fast, and tough. Cain decided the captain's stripes on his armor were well earned. After nearly five minuets of intense fighting, Cain finally gained the upper hand. They had broken off, and were facing each other. Cain, feeling exhausted, especially since he was not at his best, managed to gasp.
"I think, Captain, that you are better then me."
The man raised his eyebrows, asking:
"You concede defeat, princeling?"
"No..." Cain shadow shifted, appearing right in front of the Captain and taking his sword away while bringing his own to the man's neck "...I just have to fight dirty."
The Captain inclined his head.
"You're a mage, I'm impressed. Most of the time they're not skilled with weaponry of a more physical kind."
"Well, I decided that it was better to have a backup in case I shorted out." Cain winked.
"Fair enough. I hope we didn't prove to boring for your... refined tastes my lord." Cain noted the change in his title.
"What's your name, Captain?"
"Erick, my Lord."
"You are the most skilled swordfighter I've ever come across Erick. Truth be told, you would have bested me if we fought much longer."
"Well sir, it wasn't exactly fair. I was fresh, and you had just taken down 32 other men, not to mention your recent wounds."
Cain grinned at his humbleness. well, everyone has flaws I suppose. he thought Sardonically. Erick glanced up, looking around them for the first time.
"It appears we have made quite the scene M'lord. And I think you may have some new admirers..."
Cain's head shot up, and he quickly scanned the crowd. At fist he didn't notice anything in particular, but then he saw them. Around the square, there were several knots of young girls, from peasants to minor noble's entourages, whispering and giggling, always looking away when his gaze fell on them. Trolls blood. That can't be good. Erick grinned at him knowingly. Cain grumbled something and dropped the training swords. Then he saw Erick's eye go wide, and his mouth move to shout a warning. Instantly, Cain was ducking and spinning, turning to face the threat. Not him again It was the boy, Kerrin, charging at him with his sword- a real one- drawn. Time seemed to slow down. He heard Erick shout something that sounded like "Stand down", but If Kerrin heard it, he ignored it. Slashing with all his might, his aim seemed to be impaling Cain down to the hilt of the blade. Cain, however, had a different Idea. Grabbing Kerrin's wrist with one hand, he pulled him forwards, and with his other he palm struck Kerrin's chest, causing an audible 'whumpf' of escaping air. Kerrin collapsed to the ground, chest heaving in an attempt to gain air. Erick rush forward, taking the sword from The listless hands of the guard.
"I'm sorry M'lord, I believe he misunderstood the situation."
Cain's face was cold. "It's fine. If he wants fight, I can take him any day."
Kerrin look up at him with hate in his eyes.
"Come on boy, get to your feat. Try to stab me again, without your mighty mage to help you out."
Kerrin found the strength to snarl and rise to his feet, breath starting to return to him.
"You're going to pay for this cur."
"Kerrin! Do not speak to your lord in such a manner!" Erick barked. Cain motioned him to be silent.
"It was their choice to try me, boy. That choice is now up to you. Do you think you can do better then 33 men?"
Drawing a dagger from his boot, Kerrin charged, grinding out:
"I know I can. This time, He won't be here to heal you." You have no idea how fine that is with me. Cain gave Kerrin a pitying smile. He had found something new during his fighting that Kerrin would be unable to counter. Without the heavy blades and chains, Cain was much, much faster. Without any swords at All, Cain felt he could shadow shift by his speed alone. When Kerrin got close enough, Cain simply went inside his guard and threw him into a nearby vendor cart. Hurriedly dusting off the debris, Kerrin charged again, and Again Cain simply grabbed him and threw him to the ground. Kerrin screamed in frustration, turning and rushing Cain once again. This time, before he could reach his opponent, Erick appeared between the two of them them, disarming Kerrin and grabbing him roughly.
"That's enough! You are a disgrace to the Adelian guard!" Kerrin stopped, staring at Erick in shock.
"Go to your quarters and wait for debriefing Solider! That's an order!"
Kerrin gazed down at the ground, cheeks red. Subtly, Cain observed him glance off to the side of the court, so be followed his gaze. well well, if it isn't the princess herself. He thought smugly when his eyes fell on Ilana. After a moment of terse silence, Kerrin mumbled something to Erick and stalked off.
"I apologize M'lord, he was far out of line. He will be disciplined accordingly."
"It's fine Erick, let him test his mettle. He has skill, when he's got his head on straight. I think perhaps he was attempting to appear gallant for a certain mistress." Cain smirked and tilted his head in the princesses direction. Erick didn't look at all surprised.
"You know, M'lord, I wouldn't doubt it. Permission to take leave and tend to the rest of my men?" Several were groaning, getting to their feet and rubbing the various areas of their body where they had been struck.
"Permission granted Captain. I think I should be going anyways, It's a bad idea to keep a woman waiting." Cain winked, and Erick shook his head in mild amusement. Cain casually sauntered up to Ilana, greeting her as cordially as if nothing happened between them.
"Hello, darling, how are you this fine afternoon? Before you ask I'm doing-" he felt a wave of dizziness overtake him. Gods! I hate my life. "..fine" He finished as he fell into her, unconscious yet again.
* * * *
(( Note : This next part is a Joint Venture between Lyra and I, so as not to stray from the characters personality. I did –not- write all of this, the credit goes equally to Lyra and I. ))
Kerrin stood stock still heart, his heart nearly leaving his body. His mouth moved several times, but no words emerged. He merely sidled up to her, and gingerly, haltingly, put his hand on her shoulder. Finally, he managed in a low, wobbling voice "M'lady, are you.. alright?" immediately he cursed himself for being so dense. Of course she was not all right! but there was nothing he could do to change his words now...
Ilana looked up at the man at her side, only now noticing that it was one of her bodyguards. What was his name again? Her mind was all cloudy. Kerry or something, she finally decided. She studied him without really seeing him, her eyesight foggy from her recent tears. What was he doing here anyway? 'Err, sort of, I guess. But what are you doing here, Kerry?'
Kerrin felt his chance slipping away. He gazed into her clouded eyes as she spoke, almost missing her words because he was so caught by her look. Then she called him Kerry. He felt as if a gigantic war hammer had just smashed his hopes. He still had to try, though. Perhaps she was just poor with names. There was still a chance, however small.
"I, I came to check on you M'lady. I don't trust that Cain, I wanted to make sure that uhm..." His cheeks went beet red when he realised the implications of what he was saying ".. I uh, just wanted to make sure you were ok. It-It looks like something's really bothering you, do you, well, do you want to talk about it?" Kerrin added quickly, before she replied. "O-only if you want to, of course." He stood uncertainly, still drawn to her face, her eyes... so beautiful...
Ilana managed to clear her mind a bit, and focused again. She realised it was nice of him to check on her. He was still young, but already skilled in his job. 'It's okay, really. I appreciate your concern, truly, but I don't like talking about these kinds of things... Not with anyone, to be honest. But if I ever get the urge to talk about it anyway, I will come and look for you, okay?' Ilana wasn't sure why, but it felt like she was doing him a favour when she'd come to him instead of he doing her a favour.
Ilana realised his hand was still on her shoulder, and unwillingly she glanced at it. No... he can't be... he couldn't possibly... Ilana swallowed.
Kerrin felt like an immense weight had been lifted from his shoulders... and then came crashing down again when she gazed at his hand. You fool! Why did you do that?!? he coughed uncomfortably and quickly removed his hand, trying to make it look like it was because he was checking something on his belt. "Uhm... is there anything I can get you? It is kinda my job to do what you tell me to.." He laughed nervously, shifted his feet and backing away slightly.
Ilana tried to smile. 'Thanks, but I'm ok for now... Very kind of you, but right now, I just want to be alone... I hope you understand, it's nothing to do with you.' It did have something to do with Kerry, Ilana had to admit. She felt somehow uncertain when he was around, because he was uncertain too. She was afraid she would hurt him somehow, and most of all, that he liked her too much. Quickly, Ilana shrugged the thought off. Other things to focus on now. Cain. She winced, and immediately hoped that Kerry hadn't noticed. She created a smile on her face and said: 'You fought well today. I saw you. Very impressive.'
The wince had worried him, but she said afterwards made Kerrin Beam. So she dosn't like him any more then I do He thought triumphantly. "Thankyou M'lady." He said proudly, "Anything for the honour of Adela." She had asked to be alone however, so with that in mind, Kerrin bowed once more and smiled, turning to go. Straight into the dresser. Can't I do anything right?!? He thought angrily to himself, and quickly made it the rest of the way to the door. As he was preparing to to close the door, he heard many sets of feet pounding down the hallway, and so he jumped back into Ilana's room to avoid injury. After most had gone by, he grabbed a young boy- a squire, by the look of him- and asked him: "Whats all this ruckus about?" The little boy, gasping for breath, answered " Sir, sir, It's that Cain person, they say he's fighting the entire guard regiment in the courtyard!" Kerrin dropped the boy, his eyes suddenly blazing. He turned to Ilana. "I'll be back M'lady, after I deal with this.. scum." After checking to make sure his sword was strapped tight, he was off, sprinting down the hallway to the courtyard below....
Ilana couldn't quite catch what the boy was saying, but Kerry said something about dealing with some scum. The way he said it made her think that he was talking about Cain, and noises penetrating the room did nothing to take them away. Immediately she ran after Kerry and the boy, still with a small hope that Cain would not be the cause of the disturbance down there. Dashing down the stairs and onto the courtyard, she instantly faced a cacophony of noises and bodies. What in the world... ?
When Kerrin Finally reached the conflict, only one guard was left standing. He's slain them all! Kerrin thought, his blood turning cold. His sword hissed as he drew it from it's sheath, and he began to weave through the crowds as quickly as he could. If I can finish him now, perhaps he'll be to far gone for Lloyd's hands by the time the healer arrives. When he broke through the crowd, he saw that Cain's back was turned. He grinned in anticipation. Kerrin ran as fast his legs would take him, sword straight out to lance through the heart. He dimly heard someone shouting, and cursed, knowing the element of surprise was at least partially gone. Somehow Cain turned, inhumanly quick, grabbing him and throwing him off balance while landing a powerful blow to his chest. The rest was a blur to Kerrin, consumed by his own bloodlust.
You are a disgrace to the Adelian Guard! Kerrin blinked, sense returning rapidly. He looked around, as if dazed, and the turned to look at the man holding him. Erick?!? His Captains face remained calm on the outside, but Kerrin saw the fury-and the disappointment- in his eyes. The one stung far more then the other. Then a flash of movement caught his eye, and he saw the princess at the edge of the circle. Oh no... not her... please.. please let her not have seen me shame washed through Kerrin, and he felt all his energy drain away.
"Sir, understood." He mumbled, and quickly made his way to his barracks, brushing past everyone without even raising his head.