AN: Message at bottom!
This month, Australia leads in the highest HMCAftermath reader stats! (U.S. does not count, because U.S. pretty much lives in ffnet. Haha.) In second is France, and coming in third is Malaysia! GO MALAYSIA! /ishalfmalaysian.
DISCLAIMER: ALL CHARACTERS BELOW TO DIANA WYNNE JONES, AUTHOR OF HOWL'S MOVING CASTLE. The fanfic is based upon the BOOK, NOT the movie.
Howl's Moving Castle: The Aftermath
Chapter 25: In Which There are a Few Conversations
Once the unfortunate business of locating Margerie Burns' other leg (and the reattachment of both) was finished, it wasn't long before Sophie had safely transported the last guest. Following Howl's previous instructions, she gingerly placed a finger on a rune bordering the circle, closed her eyes, and stated, "Evanui."
There was a gentle blue glow, and Sophie felt the tickle of magic as it rushed past her fingers and dissipated. Exhaling softly, she straightened her posture and unconsciously brushed down the front of her skirt. The street was completely empty, aside from the stray gull, and she turned to see Howl waiting by his portal, his guests already transported. As she came closer, she could see his face had turned slightly gray, and his posture was more hunched than his usual slouch.
"Howl," she started. "Are you alright?" Sophie stopped in front of him, and while she didn't touch him her eyes still studied his face worriedly.
"Just fine," he bit out gruffly. "Now get in the circle, hup hup." He didn't look at her.
Unconvinced, Sophie huffed. "Don't 'hup hup' me. You look awful."
This time he turned his head, sending her a cool glance. "Perhaps I'm not one for stomaching weddings."
She inwardly flinched. Howl motioned impatiently for her to get in the circle, ending the conversation. Sophie shook her head. He had to know that his staring throughout the ceremony did not go unnoticed, and yet face to face he was unkind like this.
Her face crumpled a bit as she remembered that her actions were most likely the cause for the strange and bipolar turn their relationship had taken. It would have been best to have stayed away from him as much as possible, but they had too many connections with the same people. That, and past failures proved that she was useless by herself.
She moved to the entrance to the circle, and as she made a step, the whole seal seemed to shiver.
"Howl?" she asked tentatively, stepping away.
As he turned to look at her, the whole circle rippled and the runes started peeling off of the street, falling to pieces in the air. Both watched in confusion as the transportation circle dissipated in a swirl of broken blue magic.
"That's just fantastic," Howl grumbled darkly. Her eyes narrowed, and she studied him closer. He looked closer to exhaustion, and it was definitely not from standing for half an hour in a church. In fact, he looked rather drained...
Sophie stifled a gasp with a gloved hand. It couldn't be that Calcifer's curse was affecting him so badly now? It was true that Howl had output a sizeable amount of magic that day, what with three transport circles in a matter of three hours. However, Howl was a formidable wizard even on his bad days, and she had never seen him look so close to passing out.
He looked sharply at her, and she hastily schooled her features from horror to worry. She ignored how his eyes narrowed, and looked about the street for a means of transportation.
"Alright. We're about...two or three leagues from the mansion? I wonder if anyone's got a horse, or a carriage we could hire. Do you have any coins on you? I'm sure the vicar could lend us...oh wait he's at the reception. Perhaps we could do some sort of credit, I bet—"
"Shush," Howl commanded, taking hold of her arm. Sophie was effectively quieted. "There's no need for such common means. Now start running."
"W-what?"
Howl ignored her, and dragged her along. A wind grew behind them, and Sophie felt her feet leaving the street.
"Howl! Are you sure you're capable of this?" she yelled over the growing wind. Her shoes scrabbled at nothing.
"If you don't keep running, you'll lose your leg!" was all he bothered to reply.
She huffed, but moved her legs faster.
"If you pass out from this because you've out-spent yourself, I swear Howl Jenkins...!"
A small smile curved on side of his cheek, and Sophie would have missed it had she not looked up at the same moment. She gripped his arm tighter, and focused on not looking down.
They were less than a mile from the mansion when Howl needed to set them down. They landed in the back of a beautifully cultivated garden, and the smell of late blooming roses was thick in the air.
He slumped against a tree, no longer putting up a (rather poor) facade of normalcy. Sophie sat next to him, and laid the back of her hand on his forehead. She swallowed when he leaned into her touch.
In the light of a setting sun, surrounded by flora and beauty, it was easy to forget the troubles that surrounded herself and Howl. There were many times that she wanted to tell Howl what was going on. She was sure that not only would their friendship be somewhat restored, but he could help her in defeating Atkin.
Alas, she was far too involved in the contract to be physically capable of any sort of relevant confession. And at this point, the only reason to say anything would be to vindicate herself.
And Howl had already moved on.
With a sigh, she removed her hand and sat back. His eyes opened wearily at the withdrawal of her touch.
"How are you feeling?" she asked quietly.
He groaned, and closed his eyes again. "You don't want to know."
He did look really and truly miserable, Sophie observed. And he wasn't even being melodramatic, which meant he was genuinely unwell and he knew it.
She felt a sudden urge to draw him down, and set his head upon her lap. In his weakened state, he'd put up no fight.
The desire to do so was overwhelming, and so she sat on her hands to prevent herself from doing anything regrettable.
"Howl?"
He grunted.
"Uhm...never-nevermind."
He opened an eye at her in response, and then closed it, leaning into the tree.
The sun was lighting the world up in fiery oranges and reds, and the reflection of light upon Howl's face made him look sun brazen and warm. The shadowed depth of his eyes against his pale skin was erased in the light, and he almost looked like he did before.
She shifted her legs under her, rustling her dress.
–
"We should leave soon," she said after a few minutes. "We'll be missed."
Howl sighed softly, and propped himself up. "Unfortunately, I'm a bit under the weather and my abilities are thus incapable of transporting us farther."
Sophie raised an eyebrow. "Well, we have to leave at some point, and sooner is better than later. I'd rather not have to steal anyone's horse so..."
Howl didn't move much.
"We're a mere mile from Fanny's. Do you think you can walk Howl?" Sophie asked, looking about. The air was starting to cool as the sun set, and she shivered slightly.
An eye opened to look at her. "I suppose." With a huge sigh, he pulled himself up off of the ground. Sophie rushed over to help him, and he staggered over a tree root into her side. She let out a whoosh of air as he practically fell on her, all the while digging her shoes into the ground so as to not fall over herself.
"Alright then. Let's go," she stated firmly, secretly reveling in the warmth of Howl's arm, despite her worry for his wellbeing.
Howl made no reply, except to step forward.
The way back was a rather silent one, filled only with the sounds of their breath and a few muttered swears when one would trip over some invisible root.
Half an hour later from their start, they found themselves on the driveway of the mansion. There was the sound of music from the garden, and the place was lit cheerfully with lanterns. As they stepped up the drive, Howl removed himself from around Sophie's shoulders. Immediately, she felt cool air rush in to take his place, and she watched him stride up the cobblestone away from her.
All of a sudden, she felt like a little girl again, dressed up like a clown in uncomfortable clothes, watching the world go on around her happily, beautifully. And all the while, she would stand there, feeling bedraggled and forgotten.
"Aren't you coming," a voice said, dragging her back to the present. Lantern light gleamed off the side of Howl's hair, outlining the profile of his face as it turned back to her.
"Yes, yes of course," she murmured, and began to gingerly step up the drive in her heels. The minute she caught up with Howl, he extended his arm, to which she lightly placed her hand upon. Even now, he knows what I'm feeling, Sophie realized. They entered the mansion thus.
"Oh Sophie! I was so worried, it's been at least two hours, all the guests came through but where were you two?" cried Fanny, flinging herself out of a conversation with the Wizard Suliman to run and embrace Sophie rather tightly. Fanny pulled back. "And dear, you look positively awful, why your makeup is quite smudged. Here, let's take you up to your room to clean up and you can tell me what happened," she grasped Sophie's arm. "Oh, Wizard Howl, if you like you can ask the butler to direct you to a powder room, and then please partake in the festivities."
"Fa—erm, Mother, it's quite alright. Please, don't bother yourself on my account. I'll just nip upstairs and be down in no time, and I'm sure Howl would be happy to inform you as to why we were so late. Is Martha faring well?"
"Yes, of course she's well. It's her wedding! I told her I'd wait for you here, and Wizard Suliman kindly accompanied me. But are you sure you haven't any need for assistance?"
"No no, I'll just get going," Sophie quickly demurred. She immediately started towards the staircase, but chanced one glance back at Howl. He was watching her leave. Biting her lower lip, she gave him a small wave, before hurrying up the stairs. She missed his small smile in response.
When Sophie came back, the garden was still full of partying guests. The band had struck up a rather jaunty tune, and there was a large circle of dancers spinning about, laughing.
She herself was feeling much better, after having washed off all the makeup, and changing into a more modest dress. If Martha asked, the lovely dress she'd made Sophie for the wedding was unfortunately ripped during her journey to the reception. It was an entirely plausible excuse.
The party tent was a wide one, that extended off of the terrace and into the garden. Sophie spotted Fanny laughing on the arm of her husband (who apparently was able to make if for the wedding), a sparkling glass of champagne dangling gracefully from one hand.
The edges of the tent and the surrounding trees were all accented with little lanterns, twinkling like fairy lights in the light breeze. Martha and Michael she could see in the dancing circle, hands clasped. They were facing each other, laughing. It was a beautiful sight.
"It is quaint, isn't it Sophie darling," came a low drawl.
She turned quickly, seeing a dark head come out of the shadows. Recognizing who the voice belonged to, she turned back to gazing at the party.
"I just cannot wait until it's us out there, darling. I can't wait to show the world that you are mine," he whispered, coming close behind her to wrap his arms around her waist. Sophie stiffened.
"I saved the bedding from our night together," he continued in a soft voice. "In case they'd like to see, after our wedding, how much of mine you are."
Sophie twisted out of his arms, teeth bared. "Don't you dare presume to think that just because you stole something precious like that, don't you dare think that I am yours. I will never be yours," she hissed, voice breaking.
Edward merely laughed, before stepping forward to take her arm. "Now, now Sophie. I wouldn't have to do something awfully drastic, like, say, drain the last bit of Calcifer's magic. That would just be unnecessary. I'd appreciate it if you'd cooperate." He led her across the grass to the tent. The dancing circle had broken up into couples, couples who were swaying to a slow song.
"Shall we?" he asked, and lead her onto the dance floor. Sophie swallowed down her disgust and fear, and attempted a small smile.
"Good girl," he said jovially, pulling her close.
"I'll have you know," he started after a few minutes of silence. "That I think you shouldn't try what you're planning."
Sophie remained silent.
Edward continued, speaking as if he was musing on a silly story. "Why, there would really be no point. All you see here," he waved towards her family, the mansion, Howl. "I can take it away quicker than you can say 'I do'." He leaned his forehead against hers, smiling widely.
Sophie smiled in response. "I have no idea what you're talking about, Edward. Why would you need to take anything away? You're all I have"
She shivered as she felt his chuckle reverberate on her skin. "Think we're a clever girl, do we Sophie. Well, we'll just see."
The band began to play slower, indicating the end of the song. Edward made to lead her off the dance floor, when a man approached them. "Might I cut in?" he asked, in a pleasant voice. Sophie turned to look, pleasantly discovering that it was the Wizard Suliman.
There was a moment's pause, before Edward said, "Certainly." He bowed her away gracefully, and Suliman whisked her away into the next song.
"Hello there Miss Hatter," Suliman smiled. "I've been meaning to get a word with you."
"Yes, as have I. I'm sorry, it's just been so...busy," she finished lamely. The lights blurred about as they whirled in a fast waltz.
"Hm. I've everyone you've asked to...visit...for your wedding at my home. We are, though, a bit curious as to what entity we are helping you and Calcifer fight?"
Sophie sighed. "I wish I could say, but I am gravely limited in speech." She raised her eyebrows on 'speech'.
Suliman's eyes widened slightly. "Ah, I see now. I had not noticed...I shall tell them." He danced her farther and farther away from people. "What day should we be prepared?"
"My wedding," Sophie replied immediately. Calcifer and she had decided it would be best to 'fulfill' the contract, before launching anything. "All of you are invited, of course. All will be clear to you then..."
Suliman hummed. "There is not a lot to go on, Sophie."
"I know," she sighed frustratedly. "Just, as soon as you see anyone shooting sparks at me, everyone must stand in defence."
Suliman's face grew tired and serious. "As much as it pains me to be unaware of the danger I and the others will be facing, I will take your word for it. After all, I am indebted to you. And," his voice grew angry. "I have a feeling, now that I think of it, who this danger is."
"Please keep it to yourself for now," Sophie pleaded suddenly. If he suspected Edward and acted out of turn...all would be ruined. "You cannot tell anyone, and especially not Howl."
His brow furrowed, and he nodded. His response, however, Sophie would never know.
"May I steal this lovely woman from you, old friend?" Howl suddenly appeared at their side, a friendly smile gracing his features.
Suliman laughed, and Sophie could tell he was forcing it after their rather grave conversation. "Could I deny you, Pendragon? Take good care of her." He winked at Sophie, and strode off.
Howl smoothly slid into place, his hands alighting on her hand waist as if they were meant to. "I'm glad you were able to change out of that rather...large dress. You look happier."
She smiled, looking down. "I suppose so. It was not exactly sewn for delight."
"Hm," he hummed. "The green is quite nice on you."
"Ahm, thank you," she said. While she was indeed delighting in his company, she could now feel two holes burning into her back. Two evil-fiance shaped holes. She remained straight, so she would not lean into her dance partner.
"Are you enjoying the reception?" she asked politely.
Howl was staring off into the distance behind her, his green eyes vacant. "It is quite nice. I am happy for Michael, and your sister."
The song they danced to was slow, a dance one would sway to. They stood in a corner, swaying in a circle.
"Sophie," he began abruptly. "I need to talk to you."
She looked up at him, mouth twisting in confusion. "Alright, talk to me."
He shook his head. "No, not here. I don't want to be...let's find another place."
Sophie looked at him carefully now. His face was still a bit pale, but he did seem to be a bit better. "Okay Howl." She took his hand, and began to walk towards the terrace, into the house.
His hand felt cool.
As she started up the terrace steps, she was tugged back. Looking down, she saw Howl looking out into the crowd, not moving. "Howl?" she asked softly.
He let go of her hand, and turned towards her. "I have to go," he said. His eyes were sharp. "Sophie..." he started, but stopped, shaking his head. He rushed into the crowd.
Her eyes followed him as he wove through the dancers and minglers, up to where he stopped at the very edge of the tent. The very edge of the tent where a girl stood. A girl with dark, flowing hair, dressed in red. A red carnation was tucked behind her ear. She watched Howl pluck the flower from her hair and smell it, smiling. She watched him take the girl's hand and kiss it. She watched the girl blush in delight.
Feeling sick, she turned and fled into the house.
"Sophie? Sophie were are you?"
Huddled over a cup of tea, Sophie heard a voice float into the kitchen.
"Sophie? They want to start the speeches, and the cake's already been cut."
With a sigh, she scraped her chair back and stood up.
"Coming," she called.
As she made her way back to the main hall, she found Lettie, looking for her.
"There you are." Her sister came over and touched her shoulder. "Very nice, you look much better...but, are you feeling alright Sophie?" Lettie's dark brows furrowed delicately into a frown.
"Yes," said Sophie. "Yes, I'm fine."
–
She tapped her glass, standing from her seat. "After Mother's wonderful account of Martha's childhood events," Sophie started, pausing as the crowd laughed in remembrance of Fanny's stories. "I believe I get to say a few embarrassing stories of my own."
Martha groaned playfully.
"Ah yes. How you and Lettie used to fight! I suppose I won't need to have any children now, after the experience I had with you two."
More scattered laughter.
"However, I'm sure you've had enough of hearing about our lives as children. While that is all well and good, Martha, you are no longer that little girl, with her hair curled like a doll and the worst mouth I'd ever heard."
Martha smiled, reaching a hand over to hold Michael's.
"You've grown so beautifully, and I'm sure that if Papa was here today, he'd tell you how proud he was. I know it. I am so proud of you. I'd always knew you'd follow your dream. And because you did, you met Michael here," Sophie grinned.
"Why, I'm sure that I was just as surprised as Mrs. Fairfax to find out that you and Lettie had switched! All for the best though. I can't tell you how many times I found Michael's special box full of your letters."
Michael ducked his head, embarrassed.
"Though we've all experienced a bit of magic these past few months, the magic between you two isn't something you'd find in a spell book. I'm sure I don't have to say it myself, but I will say that this magic is the kind that will find you two sitting together, hand in hand, comparing each others new wrinkles in many years time."
Martha was wiping tears from under her eyes, and Sophie found herself almost near to doing the same.
"To Michael and Martha!" she finished. "May they live long and well."
She looked about for Howl as she sat down, but he was no where to be seen.
"Lovely, darling," Edward said, patting her thigh under the table.
A tear escaped, and whether or not it was from her speech she could not tell.
AN:
PLEASE READ!
1. A bit short, but it's there!
Honestly, I just want to finish this bloody story. I'm so tired of it. RELEASE YOURSELF FROM MY BRAIN.
2. As a kind of motivator for myself, I was thinking of letting you guys know my tumblr? That way I can release little updates on progress, as well as teasers. I'm putting up a poll, let me know what you want!
3. I also read some of the earlier chapters of this story, and I am so so sorry if everything seems kind of inconsistent. I try to make it a straight line. ;A;
4. Anyway, reviews! Your reviews make these chapters come out faster/tell me not to do my coursework. :'D
Speaking of reviews, I won't be able to reply as much, due to my heavy workload at college (which is going fantastically! Thanks for everyone's kind words from when I was bitching about how lonely I was. Haha). BUT I READ EVERY REVIEW. AND I LOVE THEM ALL. You guys are awesome.
5. REVIEW PLEASE (: