Chapter 14 – The Ball
The balcony doors to the bedroom slowly opened, allowing the gentle morning breeze to enter. Outlined by the early dawn, a man with long wings slowly came in and stared at the lone figure in the bed. Asleep on her back, breathing softly, she had her left hand brought up and her head tilted to rest on it. The covers were pulled up to her chest, revealing her neck and shoulders and the two thin, pale yellow straps of her nightgown.
The man quietly made his way over to the side of the bed and knelt down beside it. His dark eyes drank in the sight of the beautiful, sleeping angel in the bed. Carefully, he leaned down and started placing soft kisses on her neck. The woman sighed peaceful and slowly began to stir. The kneeling figure raised his head and waited. Emerald eyes appeared as the woman began to awake. She turned her head towards the man and smiled. He smiled back. She reached out her hand and he took it, laying a gentle kiss on it. The woman in the bed giggled.
"I must be in heaven to be waking up to an angel." The woman gently coed.
"The only angel in this room is the one that just woke up." The man said back.
The woman laughed lightly under her breath. Then, she sighed and looked at the beautiful, soft white wings. My angel, she thought.
"Why the early morning wake up call, Van?"
"I wanted to spirit you away for the morning. I have a surprise for you, Hitomi."
Hitomi yawned. "Can't you spirit me away later?" She said as she pulled her hand away, rolled over, and pulled the covers up further. "I'm still sleepy."
Van responded by leaning over and placing more kissing on her neck, causing her to giggle. Unable to resist, Hitomi turned and raised her hands to hold his head. She leaned up and kissed him. Slowly she pulled away.
"Alright, I'm coming."
Van backed up and gave her room. Hitomi slipped out of the bed and headed towards the bathroom. Van was in awe as he watched her. She had on a yellow, short, silk nightgown, which hugged her body well. His face flushed as he realized he was staring. Unaware of his eyes, Hitomi closed the bathroom door behind her.
Van breathed a sigh of relief as he went and sat on the bed. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Hitomi's smell was all around him, the smell of flowers and sunlight. The bed was still warm from her presence and Van found himself being envious of the covers that got to hug her all night long.
Van stood as Hitomi came out. She was wrapped in yellow robe, a little longer than the nightgown underneath. She went straight to Van's arms and hugged him as he wrapped his arms around her shoulders.
"So, what do you have planned for us this morning?" She asked.
"Well, it involves a horse ride into the forest, but the rest is a secret."
"Sounds exciting. We will be back in time for tonight, right?"
"Definitely. Merle would personally hunt me down if I didn't give you enough time to get ready for the ball tonight."
"Then let me get dressed and we can be on our way." Hitomi said as she quickly placed a kiss on Van's cheek before pulling out of his arms. She grabbed some clothes and hopped in to the bathroom to change. A few minutes later she came out, tugging a green tunic over a white shirt and brown slacks. Then she tied a belt around her waist and slipped on a pair of brown, leather boots. She had her hair up in a loose ponytail. Hitomi then walked over to the little table and fished around for a piece paper and a writing utensil.
"What are you doing?" Van asked in an amused voice.
"I'm leaving a note for Merle. You don't want her to think something bad happened and tear the castle apart looking for us, do you?"
"Good idea."
Hitomi quickly finished writing the note and then looked at Van. He motioned to the window as he started to head over to it.
"We're going to fly there?" Hitomi asked with a big smile.
"We're going to fly to our awaiting steed, my lady." Van said as he scoped Hitomi up in his arms. "This way we won't run in to anyone."
Hitomi wrapped her arms around his neck before he spread his wings full and lifted them in to the air.
He flew them over the gardens and over the castle walls. The wind was a little chilly so Hitomi snuggled up to Van's bare chest as best as she could. She admired her unique view of the rising sun on the rich, green land. She could hear the castle banners fluttering in the wind behind them as they headed out past the city. Down below, only a hand full of people were awake, all probably too sleepy to see them above.
Van flew past the city and started to descend near a cluster of trees. As they neared, Hitomi could see a brown stallion tethered to one of the trees, head dipped, nipping at the grass. Van landed and set Hitomi down. The horse raised his head and nickered in greeting. Van spoke to it softly and reached over and rubbed the horse's neck. Then, Van reached into one of the saddlebags and pulled out a familiar red shirt and put in on. He also pulled out a black tunic, similar to Hitomi's, and belted it on in a similar fashion. The black looked good with his beige slacks and customary brown boots. As always, Van had his ever-present sword strapped at his side.
Van took the reins and pulled himself on to the horse, whose name was Shogan. He held out a hand for Hitomi and pulled her on behind him. She wrapped her arms around Van and he moved Shogan towards the forest and then into a gentle canter.
Hitomi let the motion of the horse put her into a calm state of mind. She and Van rode in silence, enjoying the closeness of the other. Magnificent trees stood tall all around them as they rode deeper into the forest. The canopy of leaves above filtered in pockets of sunlight to give the forest an enchanted atmosphere. The early morning mist was starting to burn away. More birds awoke to greet the day and their songs filled the air.
They rode for just under half an hour before Van slowed Shogan to a walk. Hitomi gasped in surprise as Van lead Shogan into a small clearing.
"Oh Van! It's wonderful!"
A large blanket had been set out by beside a giant tree. A few cushions were scattered around the edges and a few picnic baskets were placed in the middle. The little stream that fed the lake wasn't too far away. It's soothing, gurgling sound traveled through the air.
"I knew you'd like it." Van said as he dismounted and helped Hitomi down. "Breakfast is served."
"How did you put all this together?" Hitomi asked, still amazed.
"It's a secret." Van said as he winked and took Hitomi's hand.
They walked over to the picnic breakfast and Hitomi sat down on one of the cushions. Van went to the baskets and started pulling out covered bowls of fruits, breads, sweet rolls, and containers of juice. After, Van sat himself down in a cushion near Hitomi and they started eating the picnic breakfast.
They ate slowly, giving them time to talk. They talked about friends, their lives for the last six years and the week's events. For the last few days, the castle had been a non-stop flurry of activity. The guests from Asturia had arrived two days ago. Dryden, Millerna, and Cleff, along with their servants, ladies in waiting, dressmakers, nobles, and military leaders, all had to be housed in the castle. Millerna and Cleff, along with Millerna's ladies and friends, spent their time with Hitomi, Merle, and Lola. They talked about the ball, put outfits together for the ball, tried on the outfits on for the ball, and rushed into town to pick up last minute items for the ball. Poor Merle was constantly running back and forth between their rooms and the council chambers. During that time, Hitomi and Van managed to find a few moments where they could be alone, but never for long. That's why the morning retreat was so nice. Peace and quiet. And each other.
After breakfast, Van and Hitomi went for a walk. Hand and hand, they followed a beat up path which wound them through the forest. They were fortunate enough to see some wildlife and rare species of birds. They took time to admire the scenery and smell the different kinds of flowers. They talked more as they walked.
The day was in full swing as they headed back to their camp. Everyone in Fanelia would be up and busy, getting ready for the big day. Van lead Hitomi over to the side of the creek, where they sat on some moss and watched the water flow by. Hitomi found her way to Van's side and wrapped her arms around his torso as he draped an arm over her shoulders.
"So," Van finally asked, "are you excited about tonight?"
"You bet. Millerna and Merle can't stop talking about it. I am looking forward to it though. How about you?"
"Now that you'll be there, I can hardly wait."
Hitomi gave him a little squeeze in response.
"I don't know about you, but I'm hungry again from that walk we took." Van said. "Do you want some lunch?"
"Doesn't that mean we'll have to leave?" Hitomi answered with hesitation, aware that as soon as they went back, Millerna and Merle would pounce on her.
"Nope. I had a small lunch packed for us too!"
Hitomi laughed as they both got up and went back to the blanket. Van emptied the other basket. Cheese, crackers, meats, fruits, breads were laid before them. Both hungry from their long walk, they ate quickly and almost in silence, laughing at how hungry they were.
Once all the food was gone, Hitomi found her way back to Van's side. They put some cushions together and leaned on them in a half sitting-half sleeping position. Hitomi's head rested in the crook of Van's arm, which was once again wrapped around her shoulder. She looked up and admired his handsome face. He had a little growth on his chin, which didn't turn Hitomi off in anyway. In fact, she found it very sexy. His dark locks fell into his face. She reached up and rubbed his semi-rough face. He chuckled at her new fascination.
They chatted for a while until they let their full stomachs and the smoothing sounds of the creek lull them into a sleeplike state. They both listened to nature and dwelt on their own thoughts as they took comfort in the others presence.
Hitomi closed her eyes. She could feel Van's warm body pressed closed to her own. If she pressed her head against his chest, she could hear his heartbeat. The smell of the forest filled her nose: the grass, the trees and the fresh air. And then of course there was Van's smell, the smell of fresh grass on rolling fields. Hitomi sighed in content.
"I could stay like this forever." She mumbled.
"Would you like to?" Van asked softly.
"Hmm?" Hitomi asked in a confused and surprised manner.
Van moved them up into a kneeling position and he turned to face Hitomi. Hitomi was speechless as he watched Van struggle for the right words to say. A determined, but nervous, Van then took both of Hitomi's hands in his own. Hitomi watched with wide eyes.
"Hitomi, this last week was the most wonderful week of my life, and it all started when I went to the Mystic Moon. For six years I dreamed about you being here with me, but I thought that was selfish of me because you had chosen to go back. But after a while, I couldn't take it anymore. I had to see you again, even if it was to find out you moved on with your life. I can't express how happy I was when you agreed to come back with me.
The stupidest thing I've ever did was to let you go. The smartest thing I ever did was come back for you."
Van shifted his stance so he was on one knee in front of Hitomi.
"Hitomi, you are the most wonderful person I know. You are so intelligent, brave, and caring. You are willing to risk your life for complete strangers because you care about so much about life. You are so strong, not only physically, but also emotionally. Your heart is so pure and loving. I pray everyday that my time with you is real and not some wonderful dream. And you are so beautiful. I never want to go a day with seeing your beautiful green eyes."
Van reached into a hidden pocket and pulled out a little box. He opened it to reveal a gold ring, with a glittering diamond at the top.
Hitomi gasped and covered her mouth with her free hand. Her eyes started to water as she looked at the ring and then into Van's chocolate eyes. A sea of emotions swam through his eyes, making Hitomi feel like she was seeing the sea. But through all the emotions, she could see the great amount of love.
"Hitomi, would you do me the great honour of being my wife?"
It took a few seconds for Van's question to sink in. Hitomi realized that Van was asking her to spend the rest of her life with him. To get married, to start a family, to become Queen. Hitomi gathered herself and wiped away the few tears that escaped her eyes.
"Van, as a girl I thought I knew what love was, but I was fickle and jumped to conclusions too soon. It wasn't until I got to know you and finally realized that I loved you, that I understood what love was. I spent these last six years trying to figure out what I wanted. When I finally decided that I wished I had stayed with you, it was so hard to live without you. I got depressed easily and my running became my escape. I tried to convince myself to move on with life, that it was impossible to see you again, but everything around me seemed so crazy and strange. Nothing made sense. As strange as this sounds, the only thing real to me was the love I had for you. The memories I had with you, and this time spent with you this week, made me realize that all I wanted to do was be with you. It's all I've ever known. I will marry you, Van Fanel."
Van watched as fresh tears spilled from Hitomi's eyes. Her smile was amazing and it was just for him. Hands shaking from the feelings boiling inside of him, Van careful took the ring and placed it on Hitomi's finger.
"You've made me the happiest man in the universe Hitomi and I promise to live each day of my life trying to make all your dreams come true."
Then Van leaned forward and kissed Hitomi. She eagerly welcomed it and wrapped both her arms around his neck and pressed her body close to his. Still on one knee, Van wrapped his arms around her waist. It was the most amazing kiss they had ever shared, filled with passion and promises of a future together. The kiss was long and deep; lips and tongues exploring different sensations. The kiss eventually ended and they held on to each other tightly, each afraid to let the other go and find out it really was a dream. Finally they pulled apart and looked deep into each other's eyes. It was real. They were engaged and would spend the rest of their lives together.
Hitomi had never felt so happy and free in her life. All at once she thought she would burst from excitement or faint from it. Her heart ached, not the kind of bad ache she used to feel, but from the huge amount of love she held for Van.
They pulled apart and Van gently kissed Hitomi again. He shifted and playfully pulled her down back on to the cushions. Hitomi giggled and cuddled close to him.
"You know," Van said, "we really don't have to go back. I mean, is it really that important that we show up? Allen can handle things."
Hitomi laughed.
"We have to go. I for one want to go. I want to dance with…my fiancé."
"Your right, of course, my love. Let's go find Shogan and head back to the castle."
After placing a quick kiss on Hitomi's cheek, Van pulled her up and they headed off.
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Bracing for what was coming, Hitomi put on a humbled and apologetic face as she entered Millerna's rooms. They had decided that Millerna's rooms were going to be 'home base' since it was one of the biggest rooms they could find. The room was bustling with motion. Ladies were walking back and forth between each other, talking and sometimes yelling at each other for some makeup or help with hair. Hitomi spotted Lola and a few of Millerna's ladies. Millerna was sitting at a dressing table having her hair done. Her hair was freshly washed and she had a long, pink robe pulled around her. Millerna was the first one to see Hitomi from the reflection in the mirror.
"HITOMI! It's about time you got back!" Millerna shouted as twirled to face her. Hitomi waved.
"HITOMI! WERE YOU TRYING TO GIVE ME A HEART ATTACK!" Merle yelled as she jumped out from a cluster of woman. Merle ran over and started pulling Hitomi towards the bathroom.
"I'll forgive you for leaving, but we have to get started on you right away." Merle continued.
Hitomi saw Lola duck into the bathroom before they arrived. Hitomi was apologizing as a cry rang out through the room.
"OH MY GOD!"
Hitomi and Merle looked around to find Millerna staring at them with her jaw hung wide open. Millerna quickly ran over to them and pushed them both into the bathroom and closed the door behind them.
"What's the matter with-" Merle started to say, but Millerna reached out and grabbed Hitomi's left hand and held it up for them to see. A diamond ring sparkled on Hitomi's finger. Lola gasped and dropped the towel she was holding. Merle was stunned silent and was visually shaking. A grin slowly appeared on Millerna's face.
"Hitomi," she said in a calm voice, "does this mean what I think it means?"
Hitomi smiled back and nodded.
"Yes," she whispered, "it does. Van proposed this morning and I accepted."
Millerna screamed in excitement, startling Hitomi before she started laughing. Merle and Lola's screams soon joined Millerna's. Millerna fell into Hitomi, giving her a big bear hug. Merle and Lola wrapped their arms around Millerna's so it was one big group hug.
"Oh Hitomi! This is so wonderful!" Merle said in a shaky voice. Hitomi looked over to see tears in her friend's eyes.
"I'm so happy for the both of you." She finished.
"Thank you, Merle. Thank you for everything."
"Congratulations Hitomi." Lola said. "I guess this means we get to plan a wedding too."
Hitomi groaned as she realized that meant more shopping and work. She was almost sure a ball would seem easy after a wedding. Her wedding. WHOA!
"Does anyone else know?" Millerna asked, releasing her.
"No. You three are the first to know. Van said he was going to announce it tonight."
"Perfect! I can't wait!" Millerna shrieked. "Let's see the ring again."
Hitomi complied and raised her hand.
"It was Van's mother's ring. Isn't it beautiful." Hitomi told them.
"It must be heavy! Look at the size of that diamond!" Merle said.
A knock came at the door. "Is everything okay in there?" A voice asked.
"Everything's fine. We'll be out in a second." Millerna answered. Then she turned to face Hitomi.
"Is your engagement supposed to be keep a secret until tonight?" She asked.
"I think so."
"Well, you're going to have to hide that ring until then. It's like a beacon in the night."
"Oh! Well, what do I do with it? I don't want to lose it."
"Here." Merle said as she pulled out a long, thin gold chain from the folds of her robe. There was a tiny gold charm on it. "I never take this off. I'll put your ring on here and watch it for you. I will personally guarantee that nothing happens to your ring. You can trust me."
"Of course I trust you, Merle." Hitomi answered as she slipped off the ring and handed it to her. Merle immediately undid the clasp of the necklace, slipped the ring on, and put it back together again. She then placed it back under her robes.
"Okay. Let's get ready." Millerna said winking.
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Van walked with Allen, Dryden, Gaddess, and a few others as they went to go meet the ladies. All the gentlemen were very polished and dressed to kill. Van wore black slacks, tall black boots, a long sleeved white shirt, a green and gold vest with the Fanelian crest on it, a medium length black jacket and a green scarf tied around his neck. Dryden wore brown slacks, tall brown boots, a white shirt, and a formal tunic with the Asturian crest. Allen wore his formal uniform, made especially for occasions like this, which was green and gold. All the other gentlemen were dressed in a similar fashion to one of those three.
The small procession turned a corner and continued down the carpeted hallway. They were headed towards Millerna's rooms to escort the ladies to the party.
All day Van had been on an emotional high. He couldn't wait to see Hitomi. The only person he had told about his proposal was Allen. Allen was very happy and congratulated him warmly. Although Van wanted to shout from the battlements that Hitomi said yes, he managed to control himself until the announcement that evening.
With Millerna's doors in view, the men made last minute adjustments to their clothes and hair. Van's left hand rested on the royal sword in an attempt to control his shaking hands. He had gone all afternoon without seeing Hitomi and as far as he was concerned that was too long.
As they neared they could hear the excited voices of women from within. They stopped in front of the doors and Allen knocked. A voice called from within for them to enter. Allen opened and pushed the doors wide open. Inside all the ladies were waiting for them. They each were all dressed elegantly, but one woman stood out in particular. A big grin covered Van's face as he met Hitomi's eyes.
Hitomi wore a long, forest green gown. The neckline extended towards her shoulders, revealing just the edge of them. It was low enough to show the gold and emerald necklace she wore. The sleeves were short and feathery, not tight at all, but light and loose enough to be moved by a gentle wind. The dress clung to her upper body and waist, but spilled out to a fluffy skirt. Magenta patterns were sewn through the dress. Long white gloves covered her arms, stopping just past the elbow. A small gold chain was hanging from Hitomi's right wrist. Her hair had been loosely curled and styled so she appeared to have a waterfall of curls flowing from the back of her head. Tiny ruby pins held it together.
Lola had on a royal blue gown and had her dark, curly hair down except for a few clips on the sides. Millerna wore a soft lavender gown and had her blond hair down as well, accented by a small tiara. Merle had on a rich, yellow gown. Her medium length pink hair was styled similar to Lola's.
The men bowed deeply and the ladies curtsied.
Van cleared his voice and stepped forward.
"You ladies look magnificent. May we have the pleasure of escorting you to the ballroom?"
A chorus of giggles came from them and Millerna stepped forward and curtsied once again, signaling acceptance. Dryden came to her and gave her a quick peak on the check. Allen went straight to Lola and asked her if he could have the pleasure of escorting her. She blushed and agreed, slipping her arm through his. Gaddess went to Merle held out his arm for her. She smiled and accepted it.
Van came up to Hitomi. He was so in awe of her presence, her beauty, that he just stood in front of her and gazed into her eyes. Hitomi was beautiful to him no matter what she wore, but tonight she was unbelievably breathtaking.
Hitomi looked into Van's chocolate eyes and lost herself within them. His face was clean-shaven and he looked very handsome, and kingly, in his clothes. Hitomi's heart raced. Here was the man who would be her husband. Her soul mate.
Millerna's last minute lessons in protocol finally snapped in and Hitomi gracefully raised her right hand. Van took her hand, bowed, and placed a kiss on it. His eyes then fell to her left hand and a little frown crept on to his face.
"Don't worry," Hitomi whispered, "Merle is holding it for me. We assumed you wanted to keep it a secret until tonight."
Van exhaled in relief. Hitomi send him a sly look.
"You didn't think I'd lost it, did you?"
"Of course not." Van said with a grin. "I was just…curious."
Hitomi playful hit him in the ribs and he pretended to be hurt. Then he looked around and released that everyone was ready to go. He held out his arm for Hitomi and she took it. Van led the way out and the others followed in the prearranged order: Millerna and Dryden, Allen and Lola, Merle and Gaddess, and the others.
They headed towards the ballroom, which was down on the ground floor and in the east wing. Van led them proudly, head up and back straight. Hitomi walked in a similar fashion, taking strength from Van's presence and his confidence. Hitomi knew that no matter what happened that night that Van would be by her side the entire time.
The grand ballroom doors were in sight. Four ceremonial guards stood around it. A steward saw them and slipped in to let the appropriate person know they were coming. Everyone stopped outside the doors. Millerna had explained that they would wait until the trumpets announced their arrival. The ball didn't really start until the King arrived.
Hitomi looked up at Van. He was so regal and dignified. He appeared perfectly calm and under control. Hitomi's stomach was doing cartwheels. She just wanted to get this part over with.
Something suddenly occurred to her.
"Van?" she whispered.
"Yes, love?"
"When did you plan on announcing our engagement?"
The ball that night was split into three separate events. First, cocktails and appetizers would be served in the ballroom while guests mingled and said hello. Then dinner would be held in the adjoining banquet hall (much bigger than the regular one used for dinner). Then, the party would move back into the ballroom where the guests would dance the night away.
"About half way through dinner. Does that sound okay?"
"Sure, that sounds fine."
Van gave Hitomi's hand a squeeze and leaned over and kissed her on the forehead.
"Hey!" Millerna whispered from behind them, "Don't ruin her makeup!"
Hitomi giggled and Van chuckled.
"You look amazing, Hitomi. Had I known I was escorting a goddess, I would have come with an offering."
"Oh, Van!" Hitomi blushed. "You look exceptional handsome, very kingly."
"Why, thank you."
Before he could say more, trumpets from within the hall sounded. Van and Hitomi, and the others, stood ready as the mighty doors opened.
A deep male voice announced their arrival as they entered. Van led Hitomi forward until everyone had entered the room. When he came to a stop, the guests bowed or curtsied towards them. Van carefully slipped out of Hitomi's arm and stepped forward. He bowed back to the gathered.
"Welcome friends! Tonight we have much to celebrate: the defeat of the remaining Zaibach threat!" Van said loudly.
The crowd started clapping, but Van motioned them to stop.
"The battle fought at the Hotaru pass was a great victory, thanks to the bravery of our soldiers and the timely aid from our friends and allies in Asturia. Tonight, let's remember everyone who was involved in this war, from the soldiers, to the officials who took care of the people, to the brave citizens of Fanelia, and to those who lost their lives for their country. But tonight is a joyous occasion. Let's celebrate with our friends and neighbors."
The crowd clapped and cheered loudly. Hitomi was beaming as he stepped back to take her arm once again. She was so proud of Van.
As the cheers died down, the people continued they're mingling. Lord Finkbone, dressed in his finest robes, quickly found the King. He led Van and Hitomi around to met and greet different people. Hitomi was genuinely surprised at how many people had heard of her, from her involvement in the Destiny Wars. Then it occurred to her that soon her name might be known all over Gaea, being the new Queen of Fanelia and all. Hitomi didn't know what to think of that.
Soon, dinner was announced and everyone filed in to the banquet hall.
Van sat at the head of the main table, and the others sat beside him, much like at dinner. Hitomi smiled at how well Lola and Allen were hitting it off. Allen couldn't stop flirting.
Dinner was served with a light, Fanelian wine. Candlesticks ran down the length of the tables. The beautiful light of the sunset spilled into the room from the numerous windows. Everything was magnificent.
Dinner consisted of slow roasted deer meat, steamed and buttered vegetables, rolls, and many other little side dishes, only some she recognized from the regular dinners, but Hitomi tried them all.
Hitomi was sipping on her wine, talking to Lola, when Van gently banged his fork against his wineglass and rose from his seat. At the sound, all conversations ended and everyone turned to face Van. Hitomi stomach immediately started flipping again. This is it! She thought.
Van cleared his throat and began.
"Friends, we couldn't have had a ball at a more appropriate time, because I have some wonderful news to share with you. As you known, I traveled to the Mystic Moon not too long ago in search of the one I let go six years ago. I found her and she agreed to return with me, not knowing she would be hurled into the middle of a Zaibach plot to destroy Gaea. Needless to say, she is my life and my love. I have asked the Lady Hitomi Kanzaki, to be my wife and she has accepted my proposal."
Cheers and clapping exploded through out the banquet hall. Van turned to Hitomi and reached his hand out to her. She took it and he helped her stand. He then bowed and planted a sweet kiss on her gloved hand. Hitomi blushed at the public display. The people stood and continued clapping. Hitomi nodded shyly towards them as her cheeks burned from the attention. Van then motioned for everyone to sit down again. Chatter startled immediately as everyone talked excitedly about the announcement.
Not two minutes had passed then did Allen tap his glass and stand.
"I propose a toast to the bride-to-be." Everyone reached for their wineglasses and waited for Allen to continue.
"I had the privilege of meeting Hitomi six years ago and watched her face many trials that demonstrated her bravery, her strength, and her caring nature. And when she came back, she proved to me again that she was still the same person. She loves Van and Fanelia very much. Hitomi will be a wonderful Queen. Fanelia is lucky to have her. To the bride!" Allen finished as he raised his glass.
"To the bride." The people responded as they took a drink.
Hitomi watched Van as he took a drink. When he put his glass down, he smiled and winked at her.
"Psst! Hitomi!" Merle whispered from across the table. Hitomi looked over to find Merle's clenched hand reaching out to her. Hitomi reached out and Merle dropped a small diamond ring in her hand.
"I thought you might want that back." Merle said.
Hitomi slipped the ring back on, over her glove.
"Thanks, Merle."
Many more toasts were made that evening. Everyone wanted to congratulate the king and his bride-to-be. Everyone became more relaxed as they continued to toast the couple. Hitomi giggled at how some people were already visibly drunk. The toasts became more and more comical and Hitomi tried to stifle her laughter in hopes of not hurting anybody's feelings. Finally, Lord Finkbone announced that dinner was over and that everyone was to move into the ballroom.
An orchestra was already playing a slow, happy waltz as they entered. Some couples immediately starting dancing, while others mingled and sipped on their drinks.
It was night outside, but the many patio doors were wide open to let in the cool, fresh air. The moons and the stars glittered in the dark sky. Light fell on the ballroom from gigantic chandeliers way above them, along with oil lamps lining the walls. Flowers and plants had been brought in and used to decorate the room. It was very beautiful.
Van and Hitomi were immediately surrounded by people wanting to congratulate them in person. Van held Hitomi's hand the entire time as they listened to each one and thanked them. Allen, Lola and Merle then came to hang out with them.
Merle ran up and hugged Van fiercely.
"Oh, Lord Van! I'm so happy for you! You're finally engaged to Hitomi! I can't wait for the wedding!"
"I was wondering when you were going to pop the question." Allen added with a grin.
Van laughed.
"Wow! I can't get over how happy you two look." Lola said with a giggle.
At that point, the band started playing a new waltz. Allen recognized it right away and asked Lola to dance. Lola blushed and admitted she hadn't danced in a long time, but Allen talked her into it and away they went.
Van tugged on Hitomi's hand.
"Do you want to dance?" he asked.
"I thought you'd never ask." She replied.
They walked out on to the dance floor. Van took Hitomi's left hand in his right and slipped his other hand around her waist. Hitomi rested her other hand on her Van's shoulder. Then, they started dancing. It was a beautiful waltz. They danced gracefully across the floor. Dancing with Van was such an incredible experience; Hitomi felt weightless. She just stared into his deep, dark eyes. He unconsciously pulled her closer. Her eyes sparkled back at him. He smiled and leaned down and kissed her on the forehead.
They continued dancing into the next song, unaware that people were watching them with smiles and sighs. Van eventually pulled Hitomi close enough so she could rest her head on the side of his chest. Their clasped hands were held close between them.
Van rested his cheek on her hair and took a slow, deep breath. He loved to breathe her in.
The song ended and a faster paced one began. Hitomi lifted her head and pulled away from Van, unsure what to do. He winked and told her to follow his steps and flow with the music. Hitomi immediately dropped her hand that had been resting on his shoulder to hold up her dress like she saw some of the other ladies doing.
It was what Hitomi later nicknamed a twirling song and it was fun! Couples twirled around the dance floor laughing and smiling. Hitomi spotted Lola dancing with Allen, Millerna dancing with Dryden, and Merle dancing with Lord Finkbone.
The band picked up the pace and the dancers matched the tempo with their dance steps. The music's speed continued to increase until Hitomi thought she was going to fall. She was laughing so hard at it all she was having trouble concentrating. Van was laughing with her as the dance ended and everyone came to a stop and clapped for the band. Soon another waltz started up and Allen and Lola came over.
"Do you mind if I dance with Hitomi, Van?" Allen asked.
"Only if I can dance with Lola." Van said. Lola blushed deeply as he bowed to her and then took her hand and led her out to the dance floor.
Allen bowed to Hitomi and she accepted his hand. They talked to each other as they danced. Hitomi was trying to get as much as she could out of Allen about his time with Lola. Allen was surprisingly shy to answer. He seemed to be very taken with her.
The festive evening continued with more dancing and socializing. Hitomi ended up dancing with Dryden, Gaddess and Lord Finkbone. Van was her favorite partner though. They held each other close all night long.
Finally, tired from the dancing and the wine, guests started to slowly leave the ballroom. Hitomi couldn't help but yawn, realizing how tired she was. She didn't want the evening to end, but she didn't think she'd be able to keep her eyes open much longer. Van caught her trying to stifle a yawn.
"Tired?" he asked.
"Just a little." Hitomi answered with a yawn.
"Let's get out of here. I'm getting tired too and everyone will be going soon anyway." Hitomi nodded sleepily. Van and Hitomi quickly walked around and said goodnight to their friends and headed out.
Van slowly walked Hitomi back to her room. She had both arms wrapped around his left arm and laid her head on his shoulder. When they reached Hitomi's room they stopped outside the door. Van took Hitomi in his arms and leaned his forehead on hers.
"I had an amazing time tonight." He whispered.
"So did I."
"You were the most beautiful one in there you know?"
"Oh?"
Van kissed her forehead. "I'll never forget this night. I dreamt about the day I could dance with you. And now you're my fiancé. I love you so much, Hitomi."
"I love you too, Van. Thank you for the wonderful evening."
"You're welcome." Van said as he leaned over to kiss her.
Hitomi brought her hand up and stroked the back of his head as they kissed. It lasted for a few moments before they parted. Hitomi kissed Van's cheek, whispered goodnight and slipped into her room.
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Hitomi sat on the bed with her knees pulled up to her stomach. She had on a short, dark blue nightgown and sat on top of the covers. She sighed contently as she watched the moonlight reflect off her ring. A smile came to Hitomi's face. Some people might consider their engagement fast or too soon, but nothing felt more right to Hitomi. She wanted to stay with Van on Gaea and help him govern Fanelia by his side. But she sighed again. She just couldn't sleep. She didn't even feel tired.
A cool night breeze caressed Hitomi's bare skin. Her balcony doors were wide open. The long, white curtains blew in a ghostly manner. Hitomi gazed out the doors and looked up at the moon and the Earth hanging in the sky. Stars twinkled in the dark sky. Hitomi sighed again.
"Hitomi?" A voice whispered from outside, startling Hitomi. A figure appeared and Hitomi breathed a sigh of relief.
"Van, what are doing here?" She asked.
Van, dressed only in his silk, black pajama bottoms, retracted his wings and slowly came in.
"I couldn't sleep."
"Me neither." Hitomi responded.
Van came over to the bed and sat down beside Hitomi, very much aware of her flimsy little nightgown. He looked in to her beautiful eyes and saw troubled waters.
"What's wrong?" He asked, "Something's bothering you."
Hitomi played with her hands and avoided Van's eyes.
"It's…I'm…I don't know." She took a deep breath and faced Van. "I love you so much Van and I want to marry you more than anything in the world. I want to live in Fanelia with you and give you an heir. It's just…I guess I'd like to be able to let everyone on Earth know what's going on."
"That's all?" Van said.
Hitomi raised an eyebrow.
"I should have anticipated this. I'm sure it would have come to me eventually. If that's all that's bothering you, we can take a few days, a few weeks if you want, and go back to earth to visit your friends and family. I should get to know your family. They'll be mine too. And I've always been curious about the Mystic Moon. I'd like to see it with you."
Hitomi's mouth opened in shock and her eyes were wide as she registered Van's words. Tears came unbidden as she started whimpering.
"Oh thank you, Van!" She cried as she flung herself at him and embraced him. Van chuckled and held her close, feeling her warm skin and her silk nightgown beneath his hands.
"I promised I'd do anything to make you happy Hitomi." Van whispered.
Hitomi pulled herself back and wiped her tears with the back of her hand.
"So, how would we get there? The pendant?" she asked.
"Sure. It took me there and then brought us back. I'm sure it will work."
Van grinned as Hitomi sent him a big, warm smile. He could see the excitement and relief in her eyes. Van reached over and used his thumb to wipe away a tear Hitomi had missed. Hitomi shivered at his touch and Van watched her eyes widen and her grin slowly fade away. Van continued to caress her cheek. Then he cupped her cheek in his hand and slowly leaned over to kiss her. Hitomi closed her eyes and leaned in to meet him. Their lips locked and as soon as they did, their bodies responded with a fire neither of them had felt before. The kiss become hot and passionate and they reached out and held the other close. They ran their hands through each other's hair and up and down the other's backs. Responding to the passion, Van bent Hitomi over on to her pillows and continued kissing her.
"Wait!" Hitomi mumbled as she gasped for air. Van stopped his kissing and raised himself to look at her.
"I sorry Van, but we should wait." Hitomi said with apologetic eyes.
Van smiled and bent down and kissed her forehead.
"You're right, my angel. You'll be worth the wait."
Hitomi smiled, reached up and took his face in her hands, and kissed him softly on the lips.
Van rolled off the bed and headed towards the balcony.
"I'll see you tomorrow, love." He said.
"Van, wait! Please don't leave." Hitomi said. She stood up and walked over to him. "I can't sleep."
Hitomi shivered as another cool breeze came in to the room.
Van smiled and nodded.
"You're going to freeze out here." He said, taking Hitomi's hand and pulling her towards the bed. He pulled the covers open and motioned for her to get in. She quickly slipped in and Van followed her and cuddled up beside her. She draped her arm over his chest and rested her head on his shoulder.
"You do realize this is probably the only time we can do this before the wedding." Van said. "I can sneak back to my room in the morning since everyone will be partied out. But I wouldn't want your reputation ruined."
"I understand. Thank you. Lately it just feels like five minutes apart from you is five minutes too long." Hitomi said.
"I feel the same way. I know, maybe I can propose a new law stating that everyone living in the castle has to have five glasses of wine with dinner."
"Van! Do you want your people to become alcoholics?" Hitomi joked.
"If it will let us spend time like this together, I don't see anything wrong with it." Van joked back.
Hitomi laughed. Then Van surprised her by rolling over so he could plant kisses on her neck, knowing how much she enjoyed it. Hitomi giggled and sighed as Van planted kisses down her neck and on her shoulder. He made his way back up to her lips were they kissed for a while. Then Hitomi leaned over and kissed the sensitive spot behind his ear, making Van coo.
Eventually, they stopped and soon fell asleep, wrapped in each other's arms.
The End
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The adventures and romance continue in the sequel, Binding Love.
Thanks for reading!
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