A/N Okay some things in here may be not so correct according to Escaflowne info and the italics with the I'm here and if you come here I realized after I typed most of this that it sounds like the beginning to final fantasy VIII kinda and I didn't mean for that to happen so sorry.
Disclaimer: Don't own Escaflowne ( If I did like I read on another author's disclaimer there would be a second season if I owned it and Van and Hitomi would have at least kissed ONCE!)
Thick gray fog swirled around his face hissing at his ears and licking his face. His unruly black locks snapped at his eyes as he desperately attempted to outrun the fog.
I'm here
A sweet voice rang throughout the empty world he was banished to in his dreams.
I'm waiting for you
He wondered if it was talking to him for it seemed there was no other soul around for miles.
So if you come here......if you come looking for me....You'll find me here
His ruby red eyes spun around for the source of the voice. His body twisted around and that's when he realized the fog he was running from was not fog. Indeed it was the after affect of the flames. Upon turning around he wished he hadn't for there stood his castle. The one that had taken him and his people almost a year to rebuild, it was the same castle and it was smothered by enraged flames. Red liquid consuming the insides and rushing past him. Turning once more he saw his city. It had just begun. The flames rushed past his feet and jumped at houses sending straw to ashes and people to their knees. Screams filled his ears and he felt his eyes water.
No all the hard work, finally peace now what was wrong!!! His people deserved peace! He deserved peace! The
So if you find me....which for her sake you should.....come ....and let's dance you and I in your favorite way...my steel in hand and yours with you
The voice scared him for it almost sounded pitiful. But worse it still could only be considered a hush to the screams of the people as his city burned once again. He couldn't take it but his body wouldn't move. Laughing at his predicament the hot flames slid up the grass towards Van. They taunted his feet to move but his body wouldn't listen so the flames jumped.
"No!!!!!!"
Van awoke with a start and found his sheets were soaked with sweat. That was the third time this week. He didn't know how much more he could take. Throwing his legs over the side of his large feather bed. His tan feet slipped into his boots. Stretching in the moonlight a pink jewel glittered on his well-toned chest. Grabbing a white cotton shirt he attached his sword to his black pants and opened the door to his balcony. The air was cool and calm. For a minute that is. He stood on the balcony relishing in the serene silence of his city.
So if you find me.....which for her sake you should
The voice hissed at him again. What did it mean? It haunted him continuously and he couldn't rid himself of it no matter the method.
Come.....and let's dance you and I in your favorite way.....my steel in hand and yours with you
The voice sounded crazed almost bloodthirsty. He had heard a voice like that before but he was long gone and the young lady he had possessed rested in his castle this very night. She and her brother had come for one of their many visits. Smiling at the thought of seeing his dear friends in the morning calmed some of his nerves. He turned to walk in his room when a sudden gust of wind swirled through his room and somehow silenced the fire in his magnificent fireplace.
Frozen to the bricks underneath him his hand flew to the hilt of his sword. He heard giggling as the ice-cold wind brushed past his ear.
So we shall meet.......oh dragon....with your city at my mercy...
The wind was sucked back out the door and the fire relit itself.
"Well then Fanel I think you need a day off" The man threw off his shirt shook his head rattling the precious necklace once more unbelted his sword and dove under his covers.
"Definitely need a day off"
~~~~~~~~
The sun rose over the hills shining through Van's still open balcony. Groaning he turned over in his bed and buried his head in the soft covers.
"Good Morning! Such a beautiful day don't you think!!" came a rich voice from his door. Boots made their thud on the bricks as the clatter of a sword swaying was heard.
"As dear as a friend you are I could have you hanged for bursting into my chambers like that" Van growled under his covers
A hearty laugh followed that " Ah you could 'your majesty'" Allen emphasized majesty "But you won't so up with you"
"I could have been with a woman mind you! What would you have done then!!" Van accused the blonde knight
"HA!! My friend I would have known before hand for nothing goes unnoticed from your feline spy in which I do not find out and second your heart belongs to someone else for you still wear her precious necklace and await her return. So don't defend yourself with that weak excuse better luck next time." Allen laughed
Van lazily threw himself into a sitting position still clutching his precious necklace.
"So what if I wait! I'm a King and I'll marry when I want to"
"Don't tell me that it's your advisors that wish to argue"
Van growled in frustration "They always want what I don't want!"
"Well no use crying over it up with you! Let's go get some breakfast! My sister is up and has already eaten. She insisted on being let alone with only Gaddes as guard to practice. I think there is something with those two that they won't let on."
"That is just because you are an overprotective brother"
Allen just smiled and walked out of the room
Van flopped back down on his bed and closed his eyes.
'So what if I'm waiting for her to come back. So what if I regret never having told her that....that I love her and that I would give anything in the world to have her back.' He sighed in frustration and stretched his arms. Just then his door burst open.
"Lord Van!! Good Morning!!"
Van's eyes bolted open but before he could tighten his stomach in expectance of what was to come ....too late. A large furry feline landed on top of him.
"Ughf! Good Morning Merle" He managed a smile after his grunt
Three years since Hitomi had left all of them. Merle had grown a few inches and her hair was almost to the middle of her back. Her body had slimmed and curved and most men couldn't resist a look here and there. But she was still the same stubborn, playful and dangerous Merle.
"You lazy runt! It's almost afternoon! And your advisors are bugging me about a meeting with you"
"Tell them I'm sick" Van smiled
Once Fanelia had been rebuilt Merle was officially named Van's royal and most trusted advisor and she was in charge of all diplomatic relations with foreign countries. She loved it because when she had to travel she would get to see her friends again. She had recently returned from Freid and Asturia before that.
" I did that last week Lord Van they won't believe me this time" Merle whined
"Alright then get off me and let me get dressed"
The young feline smiled and jumped on all fours right out the door.
He hadn't talked to Hitomi in 2 months. The connection wasn't broken she just wasn't talking. It was as if she wasn't there. He had been with her, in spirit, for her 18th birthday and for her big track meet the week before. She had come for the reopening of Fanelia officially, a year before. She had come to him 2 months before in his throne room and they talked for a while. She said she missed him and Fanelia and then left. He hadn't seen her sense.
~~~~~~~~~
"You did what?!?!?!?!" Yukari demanded
"Yea I know" Hitomi replied shamefully "But you really believe me?"
"Of course I believe you! I'm your best friend!"
Hitomi just smiled, three years later today she had sat her best friend down and she was telling her of Gaia and Van. Yukari believed and was shocked she had come back.
"But I just couldn't leave you and Amano and my family here."
"But you said you love him"
"I do very much, and I miss him so much Yukari."
"Then go back"
"Now! Just go?!?" She was horrified for some reason that her friend was encouraging her to leave
"Yes, you did it once so do it again."
"I don't have my pendant"
"What?! Why not where is it?!" Yukari screeched
"I gave it to him"
"UGH!"
Yukari began to pace the floor.
"Isn't there any other way you can get to him?"
Hitomi sat down and began to think. The three years here on earth hadn't done her harm. Her hair was still in its short cut but her body was more curved now and she had grown a couple of inches. It hit her, the feather!
"The feather!!" she screamed
"The what?" Yukari's face twisted in confusion
Hitomi's face brightened with joy and she grabbed her friend's hand and dragged her through the house into her room.
Opening up her top dresser drawer she pulled out her old track duffel bag. She hadn't touched it since the Great War. Sitting on the bed next to Yukari she gently pulled back the zipper.
"You know my family will wonder what happened"
"I'll tell them you moved" Yukari smiled
"I'll miss you"
"I'll miss you too'
Hitomi dug in her bag and found something wrapped in silk. Gently retrieving it so Yukari could see she removed the silk. There in the sunlight shown a beautiful white feather.
"What bird did that come from?!" Yukari gasped
"He's not a bird" Hitomi giggled
"He???" Yukari was beyond confused now
"I can't say but isn't it magnificent"
"It is! But how is this supposed to get you back to Van"
" I'm hoping that if I concentrate enough......." Hitomi closed her eyes and smiled as she thought of Van.
'I miss him so much. I was so stupid not to tell him how I felt I hope I'm not to late.'
Total silence then a thick bell sound was heard and a blue shaft of light surrounded Hitomi.
"It worked!!" she smiled. She was so happy she almost laughed
"Uh Hitomi! What's going on???"
Hitomi looked to see Yukari floating up the shaft with her.
'Uh oh this wasn't supposed to happen' She tried to push Yukari out but the shaft was bent on her coming. So just smiling Hitomi grabbed her friends hand and said
"Looks like I'll have to introduce you to the King"
Yukari's eyes grew wide before the shaft left the small room without a trace of any disturbance.
~~~~~~~~
Van sighed leaning his elbow on the table and resting his head there as the advisors continued to nag him about being wed.
'Blah Blah Blah same old stupid argument' Van thought to himself
"Fanelia needs and heir" Lartain continued
"Lartain as I have told you before I will not marry of your choice"
"But your majesty"
Van was fed up with this and his old temper, which he had somewhat managed to keep under control, came out.
"Let me put it in simpler terms for you who is the King? Me! So I'll marry whom I choose! Where I choose and when I want to!" Van said slamming his fists on the large oak table " Did I not make myself clear enough!"
"Forgive us your majesty quite clear," Ardon, head of the advisors, said
"We have another matter milord"
"What is it?"
"It's about King Artren of Laprin"
"I'm listening"
"He wishes to speak to you about..." Ardon looked around at his advisors
"About what?" Van snapped
"About his daughter Princess Gwen"
"NOT HIM TOO!" Van roared slamming his fist on the table once again he was ready to shout a resounding no and storm off when a bright blue light filled the room. His fist unclenched and his furrowed brows rose on his forehead.
"It can't be..." he whispered to himself
~~~~~~
After dropping Van off at the meeting room once he had refused lunch/breakfast. Merle had set out to find some food. Upon reaching the dining hall she found Allen and Celena laughing with the newly arrived Cheid, Prince of Fried.
"Cheid!!!" Merle squealed and pounced over to the young King.
"Merle" he smiled and opened his arms for the hyper young woman. Celena giggled and Allen burst into a fit of laughter as Merle sent the young boy to the floor.
"Oops sorry"
"It's alright" Cheid managed to get out while Merle climbed off him
"I see you are feeling um well this Morning" Allen managed to stifle his laughter for a moment.
"Oh can it Allen" Merle said sitting down next to Cheid " So Celena saw you and Gaddes out on the training ground today...alone" Merle smirked
"What of it?" Celena smirked equally as evil daring Merle to continue
"Well I was wondering if ......" Everyone went silent at the thud from upstairs and a very loud "NOT HIM TOO!!!"
"It was um nice seeing everyone this morning but I think I need to check up on Lord Van" with that Merle jumped on all fours and was out of the dining hall before they could blink
"We'd better follow I think Van lost his temper" Allen sighed
"Men" Celena rolled her eyes and followed Cheid and Allen up the stairs.
The four friends made their way quickly up the stairs down several halls and turns and burst through the meeting room doors only to be blinded by a residing blue light.
"What is going on!" Allen called out
"Lord Van!"
"Van are you alright!?" Cheid called
"There's .....There's two girls on your table Van-sama" Celena stuttered at the unusual clothing. But for some reason deep down she felt like she had met the honey blond girl before but she just couldn't put her finger on it.
All was silent while everyone regained their sight then there was a small giggle.
Van rubbed his eyes and peered at what the blue light had left. There sprawled out on his oak table were two girls. One was giggling.
"And what is so funny!" He demanded his temper still full fledged
The girl stopped looked around and their eyes met. Van stumbled back a few feet and shook his head. For a minute he could have swore he had seen two emeralds locked with his. Looking back he found he wasn't mistaken for there sitting on his table in some thick blue pants and a white tank top sat Hitomi. Smiling and looking around the room.
"But ...But h-how?" Van stuttered
Hitomi only pointed up with her finger. Van looked towards the ceiling and there floating towards his face was a long silky white feather. Van's rubies grew wide and then his lips cracked a smile. She had really wanted to come back! And she did!
" H-Hitomi wh-o-o are the-se people a-nd" Yukari was stuttering at all the people staring at her and at the fact that she realized she was in a castle. Something tapped her shoulder and she turned around to come face to face with a very large and very intimidating feline
"And who might you be?" Merle questioned
"HITOMI!!!!!" Yukari screeched her eyes growing with every passing second.
"Merle don't scare the poor girl" came a deep comforting voice. Yukari followed the sound up to a pair of ocean blue eyes. "Hello my lady I am Allen Schezar Knight of Caelli"
Yukari swallowed the lump in her throat.
"I'm .....I'-m Y-Yukari"
Allen bent and kissed her hand. Smiling he helped her off the table.
"Oh no you don't you heart breaker that's one of my best friends right there you are not going to start sweet talking her!" Allen smiled as Hitomi jumped off the table and grabbed a dizzy Yukari.
"So nice to see you again Hitomi" Allen picked her up and gave her a hug.
"Hitomi!!" A feline voice rang through the room it had finally occured to Merle that Hitomi was there and she was on Hitomi before anyone could see what happened.
"Hitomi!!! I'm so glad your back!!!!" Merle licked her face " Oh Lord Van will be so happy now!!! And I missed you!!!"
Hitomi just laughed and tried to push the cat off " I missed you too but I need air!" Merle jumped off and gave Cheid his turn. Hitomi looked down at the young blonde king.
"Hitomi I'm so glad to see you again" he said wrapping his arms around her in the biggest hug he could manage
"I missed you too Cheid! How have you been?"
"Great! Aunt Millerna married Dryden and my kingdoms trade went through the roof!" the young boy smiled
"My you've grown!!"
The boy's eyes glittered with pride.
"Yes and I'm learning how to fence and fight I'm almost as good as Allen!"
"Oh really" Hitomi glanced over at Allen who just sunk into a chair pride all over his face. Suddenly he jumped up though.
"Forgive me Hitomi how could I be so rude as to forget"
"What?" Hitomi asked taking Cheid's hand and walking over to Allen
Allen grabbed Celena's hand and brought her in front of Hitomi
"May I present Celena Schezar my long lost sister"
"Oh Allen!! That's wonderful!! It's wonderful to finally meet you Celena"
"And you" Celena said bowing "I've heard a great deal about you"
"Oh really oh boy"
"All good my lady" Celena laughed
"...Hitomi...." A strong yet gentle voice called out to the girl
Hitomi turned around again taken away by the sight in front of her. There standing in his usual red shirt with some black pants and his sword tied to his waist stood Van. The years had certainly down him nothing but good. His muscles that were never evident in the oversized red shirt now shone on the not so loose shirt and bare arms. He still wore his leather gloves and his unruly black hair had stayed the same length.
Van was busy looking her over before they both realized what they had been doing and blushed but didn't move their eyes.
"Hey Van" she said and then not able to resist ran up and gave him a great big hug. "I missed you"
" I missed you too"
"Umm Hitomi sorry to interrupt but who?" Yukari started to say
"Oh my gosh im so sorry Yukari!" Hitomi let go of Van
'Dang' Van thought
" Yukari this is Merle Fanel"
"Hi there" Merle purred waving to Yukari.
"The impressively tall and talented young man over there is Cheid, Prince of Freid"
Cheid couldn't help but shine with pride at Hitomi's words she always made him feel good about himself.
"Please to meet you Lady Yukari" he bowed
"The older blonde over there is"
"Allen" Yukari finished smiling
"A pleasure" Allen bowed again
" And she is Celena Schezar Allen's sister."
Celena just smiled and bowed
"And this handsome young King behind me" Hitomi said turning around
" Is Van Slaznar de Fanel, King of Fanelia"
Van blushed and bowed to Yukari " Milady"
"Whoa! Kings, Princes, Knights and a castle I think im going to faint" Yukari turned to Hitomi "This is where you disappeared to tomi?!?!"
Hitomi just nodded
"I'll have you shown to your rooms then" Van said "Merle could you"
Merle cut him off "Already ahead of you Lord Van come on Hitomi I want to show you your room"
"My room?"
"Yep your room" Merle emphasized your a little much in the sentence striking Hitomi's curiosity.
~~~~~~~
Van watched Hitomi and her friend retreat down the halls behind Merle with Merle and Hitomi laughing and running all the way her friend stunned and smiling. The doors shut and Allen snapped his fingers in front of Van's face.
"Hey lover boy come on we have plans to make"
Van's eyes focused and he blushed again.
"What are you talking about!!" Van glared at his friend
"Oh come on she's back! Dimwit! Through her a ball you can take her on the balcony for some alone time" Allen smirked
"Schezar you're pushing it"
"I always am now come on start giving your orders"
"Your so happy about it why don't you plan it"
"Great thanks see you later!"
"Allen you wouldn't!" Van almost screeched
"I'm your friend this is for your own good"
Van's advisors smiled and began shuffling out the door perhaps they would get a Queen after all. The Seeress of the Mystic Moon wasn't the first choice but she was a Hero of Gaia and could likely give them the heir they wanted.
Celena and Cheid left to go off training leaving a flustered Van standing by the window.
'Dang he's going to scare her away I have to go stop him' with that Van sprinted out of the meeting hall.
~~~~~~~~~
Merle had shown Yukari to her room guest room. It was in the royal wing next to Allen's, Celena's and Cheids which was three doors down from Merle's and 4 away from Van's. Merle's room was settled on the right side of Van's chamber and Hitomi's lay on the left side. Yukari was so stunned by the beauty of her room Hitomi was sure she'd be occupied for hours studying the recently carved art into the walls decorating her room.
"Merle I can't believe how much you guys have done in three years this place is wonderful"
"Lord Van worked day and night with his people. Once the city was finished he intended to have the nobles help him with the castle and let the people rest but the people were so grateful for his help that they came and finished the castle in no time. Alright here we are he had this room made for you in case you came back."
"Really?"
"Yep, it's all yours"
Hitomi gave a goofy smile.
"Now close your eyes" Merle poked Hitomi
"Alright I'm closing them."
Merle opened the oak door with the name 'Hitomi Kanzaki' carved in it. Shoving Hitomi in she giggled in delight
"Alright open your eyes!"
Hitomi gasped at the sight....it was magnificent. A large fireplace was in the wall next to the door and in front of it was a rug with patterns of feathers sewn in it everywhere. A large loveseat covered the left wall. And plants hung from the ceiling with beautiful designs carved into the lining around the walls. Pictures decorated the walls one portrait showed his parents with him and Folken. Another was of Balgus and Van. Then one had been painted of Millerna, Dryden, Merle, Van, the Mole Man, Cheid, Allen and the Crusade Crew standing in front of Escaflowne all smiling. It brought tears to her eyes for on the bottom in words it said "For our beloved Hitomi". A large opening led into a room. Hitomi gasped as she opened the other door to find a large bathroom with a huge porceiln bathtub and a sink. Shelves were adorned with lotions and perfumes. Hitomi's emeralds almost watered as she backed out and turned to the room. A ridiculously large feather bed covered by several quilts and one large emerald colored comforter of a sort. Merle smiled as Hitomi looked around to see a large window giving her a perfect of Fanelia and on the left wall next to her bed was a gorgeous dresser with more perfumes and one lone feather on the middle of the wood. On the other side of the bed was another fire to warm up the inner room. Turning to Merle she gave her a great big hug.
"It's...beautiful" she whispered
"That's not the best part"
"What?" Hitomi twisted her nose
"Look in here" Merle opened two large oak doors on the right wall of the inner room Hitomi hadn't seen. Inside this closet were three long bars holding dresses, shirts, and even pants for her.
"Merle you even got me pants!!" she giggled
"That was lord Van's idea I made you some dresses and ordered the rest do you like it?"
"I love it!!!"
"Great! I have to go take care of some stuff. I'm in charge of Fanelia's diplomatic relations now"
"Really how about that so do you claw their eyes out to get what you want before or after you consult Van"
"After of course" Merle smiled "I'll see you at dinner"
"Okay" Hitomi waved good-bye to Merle and walked out into the main room fighting a torch on the wall she lit the fire and fell back on the big fluffy carpet. Turning her head she saw deep red curtains covering what she assumed was a window. Getting up she pulled back the curtains. There were two glass doors intricately designed and decorated with gold writing and drawings turning the handles she stepped on her spacious balcony. Looking to her left were two more spacious balconies.
'Probably Van and Merle's'
Then it hit her as she looked forward. She hadn't really seen Fanelia yet and as she looked out across the once small valley her breath caught in her throat.
As night started to settle itself people lit torches and the prospering city of Fanelia lit up to shine all of it's beauty.
"You like it?"
Hitomi spun around to see Van in his trademark shirt standing behind her.
"Don't you ever knock?" Hitomi smirked at him
"You never answered. So do you like it?"
"The city or the room"
"Both"
"I love them both" she breathed turning back to the city. Van moved next to her and leaned on the railing.
"Thank you Van"
"For what?"
"For the room and for talking to me through the years"
"A friend does what he can" Van smiled
Hitomi winced 'friend' she wished to be more but didn't have the courage to say so.
She closed her eyes and let the wind brush against her face.
Van turned to look at Hitomi in the fading sunlight. The wind blowing against her face and sending her hair into waves. He breathed.
She looks like a goddess.
Then he heard it.
'No not again!' he screamed at himself
The wind pushed him off the railing and hissed in his ears.
So if you come here.......if you come looking for me...... You'll find me here....
If you come.....and for her sake you should.....come.....and dance you and I in your favorite way.....
He grabbed his head "Stop!!!" he screamed snapping Hitomi from her serene silence
"Van?" spinning around she saw Van clutching his head about to rush to his aid her eyes narrowed as she heard a soft voice die into a whisper
If you come.......and for her sake you should....come......and dance we shall my steel in my hands and your sword with you
"Van what's going on" Hitomi tried to keep her voice steady but it wavered
The rain began to fall and Van lifted his eyes up to Hitomi.
"She won't leave me alone" his voice sounded pained and frustrated
"Van?"
The rain came down harder and the voice was barely heard over the rain. An heart stopping giggle was heard and then....
So we shall!! Meet oh dragon.....with loved ones and your city.....at my mercy!!!!
"Van!!!!"
Hitomi's voice was the last sound Van remembered before he saw black.
Disclaimer: Don't own Escaflowne ( If I did like I read on another author's disclaimer there would be a second season if I owned it and Van and Hitomi would have at least kissed ONCE!)
Thick gray fog swirled around his face hissing at his ears and licking his face. His unruly black locks snapped at his eyes as he desperately attempted to outrun the fog.
I'm here
A sweet voice rang throughout the empty world he was banished to in his dreams.
I'm waiting for you
He wondered if it was talking to him for it seemed there was no other soul around for miles.
So if you come here......if you come looking for me....You'll find me here
His ruby red eyes spun around for the source of the voice. His body twisted around and that's when he realized the fog he was running from was not fog. Indeed it was the after affect of the flames. Upon turning around he wished he hadn't for there stood his castle. The one that had taken him and his people almost a year to rebuild, it was the same castle and it was smothered by enraged flames. Red liquid consuming the insides and rushing past him. Turning once more he saw his city. It had just begun. The flames rushed past his feet and jumped at houses sending straw to ashes and people to their knees. Screams filled his ears and he felt his eyes water.
No all the hard work, finally peace now what was wrong!!! His people deserved peace! He deserved peace! The
So if you find me....which for her sake you should.....come ....and let's dance you and I in your favorite way...my steel in hand and yours with you
The voice scared him for it almost sounded pitiful. But worse it still could only be considered a hush to the screams of the people as his city burned once again. He couldn't take it but his body wouldn't move. Laughing at his predicament the hot flames slid up the grass towards Van. They taunted his feet to move but his body wouldn't listen so the flames jumped.
"No!!!!!!"
Van awoke with a start and found his sheets were soaked with sweat. That was the third time this week. He didn't know how much more he could take. Throwing his legs over the side of his large feather bed. His tan feet slipped into his boots. Stretching in the moonlight a pink jewel glittered on his well-toned chest. Grabbing a white cotton shirt he attached his sword to his black pants and opened the door to his balcony. The air was cool and calm. For a minute that is. He stood on the balcony relishing in the serene silence of his city.
So if you find me.....which for her sake you should
The voice hissed at him again. What did it mean? It haunted him continuously and he couldn't rid himself of it no matter the method.
Come.....and let's dance you and I in your favorite way.....my steel in hand and yours with you
The voice sounded crazed almost bloodthirsty. He had heard a voice like that before but he was long gone and the young lady he had possessed rested in his castle this very night. She and her brother had come for one of their many visits. Smiling at the thought of seeing his dear friends in the morning calmed some of his nerves. He turned to walk in his room when a sudden gust of wind swirled through his room and somehow silenced the fire in his magnificent fireplace.
Frozen to the bricks underneath him his hand flew to the hilt of his sword. He heard giggling as the ice-cold wind brushed past his ear.
So we shall meet.......oh dragon....with your city at my mercy...
The wind was sucked back out the door and the fire relit itself.
"Well then Fanel I think you need a day off" The man threw off his shirt shook his head rattling the precious necklace once more unbelted his sword and dove under his covers.
"Definitely need a day off"
~~~~~~~~
The sun rose over the hills shining through Van's still open balcony. Groaning he turned over in his bed and buried his head in the soft covers.
"Good Morning! Such a beautiful day don't you think!!" came a rich voice from his door. Boots made their thud on the bricks as the clatter of a sword swaying was heard.
"As dear as a friend you are I could have you hanged for bursting into my chambers like that" Van growled under his covers
A hearty laugh followed that " Ah you could 'your majesty'" Allen emphasized majesty "But you won't so up with you"
"I could have been with a woman mind you! What would you have done then!!" Van accused the blonde knight
"HA!! My friend I would have known before hand for nothing goes unnoticed from your feline spy in which I do not find out and second your heart belongs to someone else for you still wear her precious necklace and await her return. So don't defend yourself with that weak excuse better luck next time." Allen laughed
Van lazily threw himself into a sitting position still clutching his precious necklace.
"So what if I wait! I'm a King and I'll marry when I want to"
"Don't tell me that it's your advisors that wish to argue"
Van growled in frustration "They always want what I don't want!"
"Well no use crying over it up with you! Let's go get some breakfast! My sister is up and has already eaten. She insisted on being let alone with only Gaddes as guard to practice. I think there is something with those two that they won't let on."
"That is just because you are an overprotective brother"
Allen just smiled and walked out of the room
Van flopped back down on his bed and closed his eyes.
'So what if I'm waiting for her to come back. So what if I regret never having told her that....that I love her and that I would give anything in the world to have her back.' He sighed in frustration and stretched his arms. Just then his door burst open.
"Lord Van!! Good Morning!!"
Van's eyes bolted open but before he could tighten his stomach in expectance of what was to come ....too late. A large furry feline landed on top of him.
"Ughf! Good Morning Merle" He managed a smile after his grunt
Three years since Hitomi had left all of them. Merle had grown a few inches and her hair was almost to the middle of her back. Her body had slimmed and curved and most men couldn't resist a look here and there. But she was still the same stubborn, playful and dangerous Merle.
"You lazy runt! It's almost afternoon! And your advisors are bugging me about a meeting with you"
"Tell them I'm sick" Van smiled
Once Fanelia had been rebuilt Merle was officially named Van's royal and most trusted advisor and she was in charge of all diplomatic relations with foreign countries. She loved it because when she had to travel she would get to see her friends again. She had recently returned from Freid and Asturia before that.
" I did that last week Lord Van they won't believe me this time" Merle whined
"Alright then get off me and let me get dressed"
The young feline smiled and jumped on all fours right out the door.
He hadn't talked to Hitomi in 2 months. The connection wasn't broken she just wasn't talking. It was as if she wasn't there. He had been with her, in spirit, for her 18th birthday and for her big track meet the week before. She had come for the reopening of Fanelia officially, a year before. She had come to him 2 months before in his throne room and they talked for a while. She said she missed him and Fanelia and then left. He hadn't seen her sense.
~~~~~~~~~
"You did what?!?!?!?!" Yukari demanded
"Yea I know" Hitomi replied shamefully "But you really believe me?"
"Of course I believe you! I'm your best friend!"
Hitomi just smiled, three years later today she had sat her best friend down and she was telling her of Gaia and Van. Yukari believed and was shocked she had come back.
"But I just couldn't leave you and Amano and my family here."
"But you said you love him"
"I do very much, and I miss him so much Yukari."
"Then go back"
"Now! Just go?!?" She was horrified for some reason that her friend was encouraging her to leave
"Yes, you did it once so do it again."
"I don't have my pendant"
"What?! Why not where is it?!" Yukari screeched
"I gave it to him"
"UGH!"
Yukari began to pace the floor.
"Isn't there any other way you can get to him?"
Hitomi sat down and began to think. The three years here on earth hadn't done her harm. Her hair was still in its short cut but her body was more curved now and she had grown a couple of inches. It hit her, the feather!
"The feather!!" she screamed
"The what?" Yukari's face twisted in confusion
Hitomi's face brightened with joy and she grabbed her friend's hand and dragged her through the house into her room.
Opening up her top dresser drawer she pulled out her old track duffel bag. She hadn't touched it since the Great War. Sitting on the bed next to Yukari she gently pulled back the zipper.
"You know my family will wonder what happened"
"I'll tell them you moved" Yukari smiled
"I'll miss you"
"I'll miss you too'
Hitomi dug in her bag and found something wrapped in silk. Gently retrieving it so Yukari could see she removed the silk. There in the sunlight shown a beautiful white feather.
"What bird did that come from?!" Yukari gasped
"He's not a bird" Hitomi giggled
"He???" Yukari was beyond confused now
"I can't say but isn't it magnificent"
"It is! But how is this supposed to get you back to Van"
" I'm hoping that if I concentrate enough......." Hitomi closed her eyes and smiled as she thought of Van.
'I miss him so much. I was so stupid not to tell him how I felt I hope I'm not to late.'
Total silence then a thick bell sound was heard and a blue shaft of light surrounded Hitomi.
"It worked!!" she smiled. She was so happy she almost laughed
"Uh Hitomi! What's going on???"
Hitomi looked to see Yukari floating up the shaft with her.
'Uh oh this wasn't supposed to happen' She tried to push Yukari out but the shaft was bent on her coming. So just smiling Hitomi grabbed her friends hand and said
"Looks like I'll have to introduce you to the King"
Yukari's eyes grew wide before the shaft left the small room without a trace of any disturbance.
~~~~~~~~
Van sighed leaning his elbow on the table and resting his head there as the advisors continued to nag him about being wed.
'Blah Blah Blah same old stupid argument' Van thought to himself
"Fanelia needs and heir" Lartain continued
"Lartain as I have told you before I will not marry of your choice"
"But your majesty"
Van was fed up with this and his old temper, which he had somewhat managed to keep under control, came out.
"Let me put it in simpler terms for you who is the King? Me! So I'll marry whom I choose! Where I choose and when I want to!" Van said slamming his fists on the large oak table " Did I not make myself clear enough!"
"Forgive us your majesty quite clear," Ardon, head of the advisors, said
"We have another matter milord"
"What is it?"
"It's about King Artren of Laprin"
"I'm listening"
"He wishes to speak to you about..." Ardon looked around at his advisors
"About what?" Van snapped
"About his daughter Princess Gwen"
"NOT HIM TOO!" Van roared slamming his fist on the table once again he was ready to shout a resounding no and storm off when a bright blue light filled the room. His fist unclenched and his furrowed brows rose on his forehead.
"It can't be..." he whispered to himself
~~~~~~
After dropping Van off at the meeting room once he had refused lunch/breakfast. Merle had set out to find some food. Upon reaching the dining hall she found Allen and Celena laughing with the newly arrived Cheid, Prince of Fried.
"Cheid!!!" Merle squealed and pounced over to the young King.
"Merle" he smiled and opened his arms for the hyper young woman. Celena giggled and Allen burst into a fit of laughter as Merle sent the young boy to the floor.
"Oops sorry"
"It's alright" Cheid managed to get out while Merle climbed off him
"I see you are feeling um well this Morning" Allen managed to stifle his laughter for a moment.
"Oh can it Allen" Merle said sitting down next to Cheid " So Celena saw you and Gaddes out on the training ground today...alone" Merle smirked
"What of it?" Celena smirked equally as evil daring Merle to continue
"Well I was wondering if ......" Everyone went silent at the thud from upstairs and a very loud "NOT HIM TOO!!!"
"It was um nice seeing everyone this morning but I think I need to check up on Lord Van" with that Merle jumped on all fours and was out of the dining hall before they could blink
"We'd better follow I think Van lost his temper" Allen sighed
"Men" Celena rolled her eyes and followed Cheid and Allen up the stairs.
The four friends made their way quickly up the stairs down several halls and turns and burst through the meeting room doors only to be blinded by a residing blue light.
"What is going on!" Allen called out
"Lord Van!"
"Van are you alright!?" Cheid called
"There's .....There's two girls on your table Van-sama" Celena stuttered at the unusual clothing. But for some reason deep down she felt like she had met the honey blond girl before but she just couldn't put her finger on it.
All was silent while everyone regained their sight then there was a small giggle.
Van rubbed his eyes and peered at what the blue light had left. There sprawled out on his oak table were two girls. One was giggling.
"And what is so funny!" He demanded his temper still full fledged
The girl stopped looked around and their eyes met. Van stumbled back a few feet and shook his head. For a minute he could have swore he had seen two emeralds locked with his. Looking back he found he wasn't mistaken for there sitting on his table in some thick blue pants and a white tank top sat Hitomi. Smiling and looking around the room.
"But ...But h-how?" Van stuttered
Hitomi only pointed up with her finger. Van looked towards the ceiling and there floating towards his face was a long silky white feather. Van's rubies grew wide and then his lips cracked a smile. She had really wanted to come back! And she did!
" H-Hitomi wh-o-o are the-se people a-nd" Yukari was stuttering at all the people staring at her and at the fact that she realized she was in a castle. Something tapped her shoulder and she turned around to come face to face with a very large and very intimidating feline
"And who might you be?" Merle questioned
"HITOMI!!!!!" Yukari screeched her eyes growing with every passing second.
"Merle don't scare the poor girl" came a deep comforting voice. Yukari followed the sound up to a pair of ocean blue eyes. "Hello my lady I am Allen Schezar Knight of Caelli"
Yukari swallowed the lump in her throat.
"I'm .....I'-m Y-Yukari"
Allen bent and kissed her hand. Smiling he helped her off the table.
"Oh no you don't you heart breaker that's one of my best friends right there you are not going to start sweet talking her!" Allen smiled as Hitomi jumped off the table and grabbed a dizzy Yukari.
"So nice to see you again Hitomi" Allen picked her up and gave her a hug.
"Hitomi!!" A feline voice rang through the room it had finally occured to Merle that Hitomi was there and she was on Hitomi before anyone could see what happened.
"Hitomi!!! I'm so glad your back!!!!" Merle licked her face " Oh Lord Van will be so happy now!!! And I missed you!!!"
Hitomi just laughed and tried to push the cat off " I missed you too but I need air!" Merle jumped off and gave Cheid his turn. Hitomi looked down at the young blonde king.
"Hitomi I'm so glad to see you again" he said wrapping his arms around her in the biggest hug he could manage
"I missed you too Cheid! How have you been?"
"Great! Aunt Millerna married Dryden and my kingdoms trade went through the roof!" the young boy smiled
"My you've grown!!"
The boy's eyes glittered with pride.
"Yes and I'm learning how to fence and fight I'm almost as good as Allen!"
"Oh really" Hitomi glanced over at Allen who just sunk into a chair pride all over his face. Suddenly he jumped up though.
"Forgive me Hitomi how could I be so rude as to forget"
"What?" Hitomi asked taking Cheid's hand and walking over to Allen
Allen grabbed Celena's hand and brought her in front of Hitomi
"May I present Celena Schezar my long lost sister"
"Oh Allen!! That's wonderful!! It's wonderful to finally meet you Celena"
"And you" Celena said bowing "I've heard a great deal about you"
"Oh really oh boy"
"All good my lady" Celena laughed
"...Hitomi...." A strong yet gentle voice called out to the girl
Hitomi turned around again taken away by the sight in front of her. There standing in his usual red shirt with some black pants and his sword tied to his waist stood Van. The years had certainly down him nothing but good. His muscles that were never evident in the oversized red shirt now shone on the not so loose shirt and bare arms. He still wore his leather gloves and his unruly black hair had stayed the same length.
Van was busy looking her over before they both realized what they had been doing and blushed but didn't move their eyes.
"Hey Van" she said and then not able to resist ran up and gave him a great big hug. "I missed you"
" I missed you too"
"Umm Hitomi sorry to interrupt but who?" Yukari started to say
"Oh my gosh im so sorry Yukari!" Hitomi let go of Van
'Dang' Van thought
" Yukari this is Merle Fanel"
"Hi there" Merle purred waving to Yukari.
"The impressively tall and talented young man over there is Cheid, Prince of Freid"
Cheid couldn't help but shine with pride at Hitomi's words she always made him feel good about himself.
"Please to meet you Lady Yukari" he bowed
"The older blonde over there is"
"Allen" Yukari finished smiling
"A pleasure" Allen bowed again
" And she is Celena Schezar Allen's sister."
Celena just smiled and bowed
"And this handsome young King behind me" Hitomi said turning around
" Is Van Slaznar de Fanel, King of Fanelia"
Van blushed and bowed to Yukari " Milady"
"Whoa! Kings, Princes, Knights and a castle I think im going to faint" Yukari turned to Hitomi "This is where you disappeared to tomi?!?!"
Hitomi just nodded
"I'll have you shown to your rooms then" Van said "Merle could you"
Merle cut him off "Already ahead of you Lord Van come on Hitomi I want to show you your room"
"My room?"
"Yep your room" Merle emphasized your a little much in the sentence striking Hitomi's curiosity.
~~~~~~~
Van watched Hitomi and her friend retreat down the halls behind Merle with Merle and Hitomi laughing and running all the way her friend stunned and smiling. The doors shut and Allen snapped his fingers in front of Van's face.
"Hey lover boy come on we have plans to make"
Van's eyes focused and he blushed again.
"What are you talking about!!" Van glared at his friend
"Oh come on she's back! Dimwit! Through her a ball you can take her on the balcony for some alone time" Allen smirked
"Schezar you're pushing it"
"I always am now come on start giving your orders"
"Your so happy about it why don't you plan it"
"Great thanks see you later!"
"Allen you wouldn't!" Van almost screeched
"I'm your friend this is for your own good"
Van's advisors smiled and began shuffling out the door perhaps they would get a Queen after all. The Seeress of the Mystic Moon wasn't the first choice but she was a Hero of Gaia and could likely give them the heir they wanted.
Celena and Cheid left to go off training leaving a flustered Van standing by the window.
'Dang he's going to scare her away I have to go stop him' with that Van sprinted out of the meeting hall.
~~~~~~~~~
Merle had shown Yukari to her room guest room. It was in the royal wing next to Allen's, Celena's and Cheids which was three doors down from Merle's and 4 away from Van's. Merle's room was settled on the right side of Van's chamber and Hitomi's lay on the left side. Yukari was so stunned by the beauty of her room Hitomi was sure she'd be occupied for hours studying the recently carved art into the walls decorating her room.
"Merle I can't believe how much you guys have done in three years this place is wonderful"
"Lord Van worked day and night with his people. Once the city was finished he intended to have the nobles help him with the castle and let the people rest but the people were so grateful for his help that they came and finished the castle in no time. Alright here we are he had this room made for you in case you came back."
"Really?"
"Yep, it's all yours"
Hitomi gave a goofy smile.
"Now close your eyes" Merle poked Hitomi
"Alright I'm closing them."
Merle opened the oak door with the name 'Hitomi Kanzaki' carved in it. Shoving Hitomi in she giggled in delight
"Alright open your eyes!"
Hitomi gasped at the sight....it was magnificent. A large fireplace was in the wall next to the door and in front of it was a rug with patterns of feathers sewn in it everywhere. A large loveseat covered the left wall. And plants hung from the ceiling with beautiful designs carved into the lining around the walls. Pictures decorated the walls one portrait showed his parents with him and Folken. Another was of Balgus and Van. Then one had been painted of Millerna, Dryden, Merle, Van, the Mole Man, Cheid, Allen and the Crusade Crew standing in front of Escaflowne all smiling. It brought tears to her eyes for on the bottom in words it said "For our beloved Hitomi". A large opening led into a room. Hitomi gasped as she opened the other door to find a large bathroom with a huge porceiln bathtub and a sink. Shelves were adorned with lotions and perfumes. Hitomi's emeralds almost watered as she backed out and turned to the room. A ridiculously large feather bed covered by several quilts and one large emerald colored comforter of a sort. Merle smiled as Hitomi looked around to see a large window giving her a perfect of Fanelia and on the left wall next to her bed was a gorgeous dresser with more perfumes and one lone feather on the middle of the wood. On the other side of the bed was another fire to warm up the inner room. Turning to Merle she gave her a great big hug.
"It's...beautiful" she whispered
"That's not the best part"
"What?" Hitomi twisted her nose
"Look in here" Merle opened two large oak doors on the right wall of the inner room Hitomi hadn't seen. Inside this closet were three long bars holding dresses, shirts, and even pants for her.
"Merle you even got me pants!!" she giggled
"That was lord Van's idea I made you some dresses and ordered the rest do you like it?"
"I love it!!!"
"Great! I have to go take care of some stuff. I'm in charge of Fanelia's diplomatic relations now"
"Really how about that so do you claw their eyes out to get what you want before or after you consult Van"
"After of course" Merle smiled "I'll see you at dinner"
"Okay" Hitomi waved good-bye to Merle and walked out into the main room fighting a torch on the wall she lit the fire and fell back on the big fluffy carpet. Turning her head she saw deep red curtains covering what she assumed was a window. Getting up she pulled back the curtains. There were two glass doors intricately designed and decorated with gold writing and drawings turning the handles she stepped on her spacious balcony. Looking to her left were two more spacious balconies.
'Probably Van and Merle's'
Then it hit her as she looked forward. She hadn't really seen Fanelia yet and as she looked out across the once small valley her breath caught in her throat.
As night started to settle itself people lit torches and the prospering city of Fanelia lit up to shine all of it's beauty.
"You like it?"
Hitomi spun around to see Van in his trademark shirt standing behind her.
"Don't you ever knock?" Hitomi smirked at him
"You never answered. So do you like it?"
"The city or the room"
"Both"
"I love them both" she breathed turning back to the city. Van moved next to her and leaned on the railing.
"Thank you Van"
"For what?"
"For the room and for talking to me through the years"
"A friend does what he can" Van smiled
Hitomi winced 'friend' she wished to be more but didn't have the courage to say so.
She closed her eyes and let the wind brush against her face.
Van turned to look at Hitomi in the fading sunlight. The wind blowing against her face and sending her hair into waves. He breathed.
She looks like a goddess.
Then he heard it.
'No not again!' he screamed at himself
The wind pushed him off the railing and hissed in his ears.
So if you come here.......if you come looking for me...... You'll find me here....
If you come.....and for her sake you should.....come.....and dance you and I in your favorite way.....
He grabbed his head "Stop!!!" he screamed snapping Hitomi from her serene silence
"Van?" spinning around she saw Van clutching his head about to rush to his aid her eyes narrowed as she heard a soft voice die into a whisper
If you come.......and for her sake you should....come......and dance we shall my steel in my hands and your sword with you
"Van what's going on" Hitomi tried to keep her voice steady but it wavered
The rain began to fall and Van lifted his eyes up to Hitomi.
"She won't leave me alone" his voice sounded pained and frustrated
"Van?"
The rain came down harder and the voice was barely heard over the rain. An heart stopping giggle was heard and then....
So we shall!! Meet oh dragon.....with loved ones and your city.....at my mercy!!!!
"Van!!!!"
Hitomi's voice was the last sound Van remembered before he saw black.