Hello, everyone!  I've decided to write another RahXephon fanfiction.  This one takes place a short time before the series begins (over the 6 days before for Haruka, and the 1 day before for Ayato).  I decided that there is approximately a 1 to 6 ratio in time for "Normal" and Tokyo Jupiter because when Ayato goes back to Tokyo Jupiter, Hiroko says he has been gone for 1 month, and Ayato knows that he has really been gone for 6 months.

The title is in reference to the opening, in which Haruka in one scene is seen with a red clock behind her and, right after, Ayato with a blue hourglass behind him.

Disclaimer: RahXephon and its characters are the rightful property of their respective owners.  This piece is not for profitable purposes.

The Clock and the Hourglass

Chapter 1: - 6, Midnight

As I put on the coat of my uniform, I glance outside and notice a bird fly by; I smile slightly, the bluebird of happiness.  Is it possible that it is here to provide me with the good fortune that I have sought for so long?  After I finish, I walk to the mirror and look at my reflection.  I pick up my brush and run it through my hair before placing my headband on.  Pleased, I smile and then glance at my watch.  Six days, only six days until my mission.  Energized, I walk towards my computer and press the on button and wait as it boots up.  The wallpaper of the TERRA symbol appears as the icons load.  I have kept it there as a reminder, that, even through the long and difficult days, I have made a commitment.  I have put all of my hope and faith in this organization, believing that it will succeed in ridding the world of the MU, and fulfilling my greatest wish, reuniting me with my beloved Kamina-kun.  I bend over slightly and quickly glance through my e-mail list, but, not noticing anything of importance, I straighten and walk outside of my room. 

I see Megumi moving slowly in my direction, her left arm stretched, her right hand rubbing her eyes, and her mouth open in a yawn.

"Good morning, Megumi," I say with a bright smile.

Her eyes blink, attempting to widen as she answers, "Good morning, Onee-chan."

She walks towards the bathroom as I go to meet Ojii-san for breakfast.

When I arrive, I see that he is already there, and that breakfast is ready.

"Good morning, Ojii-san."

He looks towards me and smiles calmly as he answers, "Good morning, Haruka."

I sit down and say, "Thanks for the food," as I scoop some rice into my bowl and pick up my chopsticks.

As I am lifting the chopsticks to my mouth, he says, "Haruka, you said you have a business trip coming up soon, as I recall."

I stop my motion and answer, "Yes, I'll be out of town, it should be only for a couple of days."

He looks to me and says, "It must be important, since you can't say where you're going."

I smile slightly; I want so much to shout, 'I'm going to rescue him from them!'

However, I know that I have been entrusted with this mission, and want more than anything for it to proceed, so I remain silent.

I glance at the clock, surprised to see that it is midnight already.  I look back at my study guide, flipping through the pages.  I have that much left?  How am I going to finish all this before the practice entry exam?  I put down my pencil and lean back in my chair, my arms slack at my sides and my head back.  After a few moments, I lift and turn my head to look at my painting.  I smile, pleased with how it's turning out.  I've been working on it a lot lately, and am almost done – which probably explains why I'm so far behind in my studying.  I'm not sure what exactly about it, but it's my favorite piece that I've done.  Unable to resist, I push my chair away from the desk, stand, and walk over to look at it more closely.  Truly, there is something… 

"Ayato."

Startled, I look up and see my mother.

"Kaa-san?"

"It's late, shouldn't you be going to bed?"

"I was studying for my practice exam."

She gives me a look of disbelief.

Embarrassed, I respond, "I mean, I was just studying, I –"

She sighs slightly and says, "You have school tomorrow, Ayato."

I nod my head and say, "All right."

Satisfied, she turns around and walks towards her room.

As she exits, she says, "Good night."

"Good night," I answer in response.

I return my glance to the picture for another lingering moment before I am able to pull myself away.  After I put away my study materials, I brush my teeth and change.  I return to my bedroom and set my alarm for 7:00.  I turn down the sheets before going to bed.