So, the last time I posted was in May...I apologize for being a couple of weeks late. The next couple of chapters are going to be hard for me because I am switching gears from action and conspiracy to some romance...it's difficult to change after twenty something chapters of constant action-like sequences.
I hope you enjoy it though.
Disclaimer, I do not own the characters or plot of Escaflowne or Visions of Escaflowne (because if I did there would be a sequel).
"The Zaibachian doctor is very talented," the surgeon at Folken's bedside murmured as he cleaned the Prince's shoulder wound. "She managed to save all use in your right arm. You're very fortunate it was never infected." The doctor chided as he began to pack his bag. "I'll return everyday to replace the bandages and apply the soothing salve until the wound has began healing itself." He bowed and backed out of the prince's chambers.
"That was painful," Folken mumbled sarcastically, covering his face with his left arm as he collapsed onto his bed.
"I admit, he's not as pretty as Kallie, but he serves his purpose." Dargas teased, looking up from the book in his hands.
"Are you hungry? You've been asleep for most of the day, you have to be famished." Sarda asked he was sitting on the window's ledge looking at his best friend, unease filling his eyes.
"Ugh," Folken groaned as he sat up, he wasn't concerned about eating. "I can't think about food, I want to see Aimi first," he announced like a tantrum throwing child, his stomach growling loudly in response to his frustration.
"Eat something," Sarda scolded him, setting a plate of food from a nearby table on the bed. "We'll go see if Aimi is up for any visitors." The cat-man sighed exhausted, catching the eyes of the Asturian prince who stood in response. Both men vacated the room, leaving Folken gratefully alone to linger in his self-pity.
"Why did you go alone?" Folken asked the air in his room, the question intended to Aimi. Picking up the plate of food, the prince stumbled to his feet and threw it on the table, most the content spilling over the edges.
He walked to the window and pushed aside the curtain to look down on the courtyard. The sun sat high in the sky beating down on the castle grounds. He could see the blinding white rays reflect off the Escaflowne and a second very familiar Zaibachian guymelef. It can't be? He thought the coincidence too much and made a mental note to check out both armors later.
Movement at the entrance of the courtyard caught his eye. Folken watched as a cart holding a body, escorted by three people walked through the square. Father… He recognized his father's lean shape walking next to the always finely dressed Allen, who was next to...
"Kallie?" Folken whispered the doctors name. He had thought that she would return to Zaibach with…Folken's eyes widened his gaze returning to the wagon. Laota didn't take Nathan, why? He focused on the soldier's body lying on the cart. You will be honored, I'll make sure of that!
"Aren't you supposed to still be in bed, resting that royal behind of yours?" A familiar voice sung out to him in a teasing manner.
Spinning, Folken smirked at Merle. "I wanted to see Aimi. Sarda went to check on her condition." If Merle is here, then possibly …
"She's still asleep," the cat responded, dashing his hopes. Merle's eyes wavered, her emotional conversation with Hitomi still fresh in her mind.
Noticing the difference in the feline's manner, Folken asked, "What aren't you telling me?" He wasn't blind to Merle's sly façade it was uncharacteristic.
"It's not my place to inform you of anything, but you do still plan on purposing to Aimi, right?" The cat woman asked finding a seat on his rumpled bed.
Turning his back on Merle, Folken looked back out onto the courtyard to watch the procession of Nathan's wagon. "Mer, do you think she will accept me after all that has happened? She's lost so much during the rebellion. I was so foolish to make such a rash statement in front of the council, I thought of no one but myself."
Leaning back on his pillows, Merle smiled. "Love makes you do crazy things." She murmured, recalling a particular king who flew the Escaflowne toward Gaea in an effort to retrieve Hitomi. "Besides, she loves you, doesn't she? Why would she deny you?"
"Why would she stay Merle? Why wouldn't she go back to the Mystic Moon after all that's happened to her? I wouldn't blame her if she did, one man is not worth being reminded for life what occurred." Folken knew he was ranting, but he couldn't help but voice his concerns.
"Before you start making any decisions I think you should talk to Aimi." His mothers voice interjected clearly, ironically repeating his father's words.
When did she walk in? He was beginning to think his instincts were going bad. Folken turned and considered his mother's tired and tear stained face. Something was wrong and definitely being kept from him. I will find out! He thought. No one will keep me from Aimi for long.
Hitomi's green eyes studied her son calmly. He still looked exhausted. His right shoulder was freshly bandaged, his shirt recklessly hanging open. "Speak with her. I know she'll talk to you when she wouldn't me. She trusts you, Folken and I know she loves you very much."
"But I disappoint her," Folken mumbled, turning away from his mother's sad gaze. I disappoint myself.
Watching the door to her room close assisted by a Fanelian soldier, Kallie sunk into a nearby chair exhausted. It had been two days since she'd said farewell to her Empress and Aefron. She'd been busy speaking to the surgeon during those days, explaining to him just what she'd done to treat Folken's wound. He'd seemed skeptical with her methods, but satisfied with all her answers and demonstrations. Then the surgeon had surprisingly asked Kallie to share more knowledge of her unusual treatments and she had no doubts that he'd be calling upon her again the next day for more information or possibly requiring her assistance with patients.
"Men…" She mumbled shaking her head, knowing fully well the surgeon had found her beauty, not her skills, hard to ignore as all her male medical partners did. For once I'd like to meet another woman in my field, she thought frustrated. I should have been a midwife; at least I'd treat more women…but I would have never met Aimi. I do hope she's all right, Kallie randomly thought. If only I could only see her… Her mind now turning onto the one female patient she treated. Maybe tonight I can…
A steady knock on the doctor's door broke her thoughts. "Come in," she responded sharply, not moving from her position, figuring it was the soldier with her night meal.
Entering the doorway stood the handsome and always cheerful Dargas. "So, I see they are keeping you prisoner after all," he teased.
Standing to welcome him properly, Kallie smiled widely. "Oh…me a prisoner?" She laughed. "I'm glad your safe Dargas. I'm happy you're here but I would have figured you'd have returned to Asturia with your parents." She embraced him briefly. "I saw the Asturian airship leave this morning."
Shrugging Dargas responded, "They left this morning before Empress Laota had arrived, they felt the need to attend to their kingdom. I desired to remain with my friends. Besides, though Folken is healing and gaining strength, he's so worried about Aimi, that it's driving Sarda and I insane."
"She hasn't woken from unconsciousness yet?" Kallie asked curiously, the doctor taking over instantly forgoing the friendly sympathy for the Fanelian prince.
"Well, what I've overheard from the servants is she'll wake up, off and on, but not for long." Dargas informed her absorbing mind.
"Well, that makes sense. The woman barely ate or slept while at the encampment and after everything she went through, it's no wonder she's so tired." Kallie told him.
"I'm a little curious to when Folken is going to offer his proposal of marriage to Aimi as well. He seems a little…" Dargas started.
"M-marriage?" Kallie stuttered surprised, she hadn't been aware of any coming nuptials between the two warriors.
"Funny what a little rebellion can do to a man." The Asturian prince grinned.
Laughing, the doctor shook her head. "I guess, he really did grow up."
"I hope for the sake of all of us, Aimi makes him happy and agrees, because if she doesn't, Goddess help us all!" Dargas laughed.
Blinking the sleep from her eyes, Aimi painfully stretched. How long have I been asleep? She wondered pulling herself into a sitting position. Her whole body was stiff and aching. Groaning as she swung her body off the bed, Aimi forced herself to stand on wobbly legs. She hobbled over to the window feeling much older than twenty-five and pushed the heavy curtain aside. It was night, the Mystic Moon and it's partner blinding and full.
Swallowing back her remorse, Aimi softly spoke to herself. "This is my home now." All her plans and dreams on Earth were no longer attainable, she'd given up her desires to further her education, to go over seas, to get married while her parents watched, to give them grandchildren. Aimi felt the single tear slid down her cheek and quickly wiped it away.
There was a light knock on her door and the older maid that had doted on her before the incidental kidnapping, was standing in the doorway arms full of a variety of things. "Oh Aimi, I mean Lady Aimi you're awake!"
"Here, let me help you," Aimi said stumbling towards the maid, taking some of her load. Aimi wasn't great with names but this woman wasn't easy to forget. She was about her mother's age, with a round pleasant form and a kind cherubic face. "Maragret right?" Aimi asked.
The older woman's blue eyes widened with surprise. "You remembered me!"
Smiling, Aimi nodded. "Of course! Where shall I set these?" She asked, motioning her own load of what looked to be linens.
"Oh, any place will do. I'm here to give you a bath and serve your dinner. It will be much easier now that you're awake." The maid said busying herself. Maragret dragged the water basin from the corner of the room and walked back to the doorway bringing buckets of steaming hot water.
Aimi looked down at her red tunic and pants. Folken's and Nathan's blood still remained on them, staining the red fabric a dark brown. She closed her eyes trying to fight the painful memories of the losses and sacrifices, of her weakness. At least my arms and hands have been cleaned, she thought somberly. That in its self gave her the strength to peel the discolored material from her body.
Relaxing in the hot water, Maragret scrubbed Aimi's body gently. It had been a long time since she'd been pampered and the soft touch of the maid was welcomed. The younger woman could feel the months of dirt dissolving into the water, her skin becoming more ivory, the natural glow returning.
Standing with relaxed limbs at the conclusion of her much-needed bath, Aimi murmured sleepily, "Thank you, I really appreciate this."
"It was my pleasure, Mistress," Maragret chirped as she wrapped a warm towel around Aimi's freshly washed body.
Smiling warmly, the maid led Aimi by the hand to the tiny table next to the window and sat her down in the adjacent chair. Aimi sank into its cushion with a sigh of contentment.
"Lady Aimi, would you like something to eat now?" The older woman asked her eyes hopeful, the girl needed to eat; she'd been sleeping for days.
Nodding in response, Aimi watched as Maragret retreated out of the room only to return seconds later with her arms over flowing with covered plates of what must be food. Standing to help the over burdened maid, Maragret hissed at her to sit down.
"There is no reason for you to help me my dear. I'm more than capable." The woman chided placing the food on the table then collapsing in the chair opposite Aimi. Maragret sat up and began to remove the covers off the plates, her eyes peering at her charge, surveying Aimi's every reaction.
Watching quietly, Aimi noticed as each dish was uncovered it was something she recognized. "How…?" Was all she could manage to say; the surprise worn plainly on her face, Maragret had brought oden, ramen and several Western styled dishes with obvious Fanelian flair.
Smiling the maid began to cut the meat into bite sized pieces. "You seem to have forgotten where our Queen comes from. I do believe you'll get used to Fanelian food eventually, but for the time being I will prepare your meals in the way of the Mystic Moon, the way Lady Hitomi taught me all those years ago." Maragret informed the surprised young woman. Anything to keep you strong and healthy, the maid thought knowing the undernourishment Aimi's body was still going through.
"Thank you so much, but I don't think I'll be able to eat all this food," Aimi stated gesturing to all the plates.
"Start slowly, don't eat too much. I want you to regain your appetite, not gorge yourself to sickness." Maragret said smiling. "Plus, I am here to observe what your favorite dishes are, to make sure you gain your strength quickly."
"And weight," Aimi joked, knowing how thin she was. Taking an eating utensil and stabbing it into the entrée on a nearby plate, she put some of the noodles into her mouth. "This is amazing!" Aimi exclaimed looking up at the maid. Of course, compared to bread, water and gruel anything would be, but she left those thoughts to herself. Aimi was impressed at how close it tasted to her mothers cooking. Mom… The jolted memory made Aimi somewhat miserable causing her to stop chewing, a frown forming.
"Milady? Is something wrong with the food?" Maragret asked worriedly, confused how something could be delicious yet cause such a look of pain.
"No, no I'm fine." Aimi responded quickly plastering a fake smile on her face. The maid continued to look troubled; she wasn't falling for the façade. Gazing away from Maragret, Aimi continued to eat. "Is…is the Prince all right?" Aimi asked, stammering to change the subject.
Smiling Maragret went along with the altered topic. "For the last few days while you've been sleeping, he's asked a lot about you." The maid informed her charge, observing her closer.
A small smile curved the corners of Aimi's mouth at the thought of Folken being worried and unable to see her. "Just how long have I been asleep?" She finally asked afraid of the answer.
Counting on her hands, Maragret looked up at the younger woman and smiled. "About four days, counting today," she replied.
Stunned, Aimi began to absently eat the meat that had been cut for her. I've been asleep that long? She thought surprised. She remembered the bittersweet visit from Hitomi. What day had that been? She wondered.
"Are you sure you're all right?" Maragret asked again, her face filled with concern, the girl seemed to space out more and more as the night continued on.
Smiling more genuinely now, Aimi nodded. She continued to eat in silence before she asked, "How are the Princes' injuries?" She managed to keep Folken's title more formal, trying not to give her feelings for him away.
Maragret noticed the return of the topic of the prince's health. Aimi obviously didn't want to talk about herself, but she seemed very eager to know about prince Folken, which as a hopeless romantic, she found rather sweet. "He's recovering quiet well from what I've heard. I have little interaction with him now that he's an adult. Most the servants do not interact with the prince; his own entourage serves him well."
"Besides as a woman, I wouldn't dare be in his presence without an escort." Maragret told her with a smile.
"What do you mean? But I…" Aimi thought back to her interactions with Folken at the castle. Only once had she been alone in a room with him, but it had been a mistake, he had sworn to her that he believed Maragret was still attending her in the room. Every other time she met with him, she or he was always with someone. It wasn't until the encampment that she'd been left alone with him. "I won't be alone when I speak to him again will I?" She asked, her heart sinking. She wanted him to know what she'd been asked to sacrifice; she wanted to confide to him and only him, not a room full of people, not a servant, not even his friends and family.
"I'm sorry, no, you won't. Especially not if he…" Maragret stopped speaking, covering her mouth with a gasp.
"If he what?" Aimi asked, now curious, her sad thoughts forgotten for the moment.
"Nothing, it's just a silly servant rumor," the maid said with a childish giggle.
"What kind of rumor?" The younger woman asked becoming more suspicious.
"Don't worry your pretty little head about it." Maragret said smiling. "Oh, look you've finished your meal!" She exclaimed, standing to collect the plates in a hurry, abandoning the conversation.
Looking down at the table in front of her, Aimi realized she'd eaten almost everything on the table. Dear God, she chided herself, forgetting that she'd been going hungry for longer than she could remember. Aimi watched Maragret leave the room quickly, balancing the empty plates in her arms with ease.
Standing with a sigh, Aimi pushed the chair under the table and Maragret came sweeping back into the room with a kind smile.
"Now, would you like to dress for bed or go for a late night walk to stretch? After all you've been cooped up in this room for a long time and I am at your command." The maid was grinning as if she was hiding a secret; her new post and mistress a dream come true. She's as sweet as I remember.
"It would be nice to walk," Aimi responded, returning the contagious smile.
"Very well," Maragret sang, relishing in a night walk on the grounds of Fanelia Castle. She made her way to the armoire and paused looking back at Aimi. "Dress or tunic?" She asked remembering the woman disliked wearing dresses.
Thinking for a moment Aimi answered, "Dress, please." She had had enough with tunics and robes and soldiers uniforms; she wanted to feel like a woman again and a flowing dress would do just the trick.
Weeding through the dresses, most too formal for an outdoor adventure, Maragret thought to herself about discussing Aimi's new and expanding wardrobe with Merle. The maid's hand rested on the soft fabric of the dress she had been looking for. It was pale lavender, with a v-cut neckline, and lace trimming on the sleeves and skirt bottom, which was calve length. Hitomi had designed this particular item in the fashion of the Mystic Moon and Maragret wondered what Aimi would think.
"Here we are," the maid announced turning to the expecting woman, who seem preoccupied with the darkened courtyard.
Studying the shadows covering the large plaza beneath her window, Aimi swore she could see people moving. Just shadows, your safe. Nothing is going to happen to you, she assured herself.
Taking a deep steady breath, Aimi turned with a smile. The dress held out to her had an Earth feel to it. The lace trim was delicate and detailed against the purple fabric. "It's beautiful," she breathed, taking a step forward, allowing Maragret to begin fussing over her.
The maid gathered new undergarments and a light camisole. A corset was unneeded because of the style of dress and the weight loss of her charge. Watching the girl pull the undergarments on to her thin body, Maragret thought about Aimi's hair. It was night, late night, and most the castle was asleep, so anything extravagant was out of the question and unneeded. The maid decided to simply tie her hair back using a similar lace ribbon, the bangs were now long enough to include in the ponytail. Has Aimi truly been on Gaea long enough for her hair to grow this much? The maid thought, slightly startled by the discovery. She must be homesick, I remember Hitomi missing her family for a long time after she arrived to never return home.
Studying her gaunt face, instead of the dress that draped her body, Aimi forced a smile. This is horrible. Such a pretty dress shouldn't be wasted on me. I scarcely exist. She could barely acknowledge the fact she looked half-human. The last time she'd been in front of a mirror was forever ago, the depression was hitting her harder then she thought possible.
"Now," Maragret said interrupting Aimi's dreary thoughts. The maid held a pair of white slippers out toward Aimi, her face bright.
Taking them from Maragret, Aimi slipped her feet into the soft fabric of the shoes. It was like heaven compared to the boots she had worn at the encampment. "Thank you, these are nice."
"Where on the castle grounds would you like to go?" Maragret asked, moving to the door.
Thinking quickly, Aimi knew there was only one place she wanted to go, one place that would grant her the peace she needed. "The garden," she replied, a smile on her face.
Opening the door and motioning Aimi out of the room, Maragret grinned. She was enjoying her new charge. Hitomi had finally rewarded her for all her hard service over the years. Aimi was a sweetheart and Maragret couldn't imagine the woman causing her any trouble. Folken on the other hand… the maids thoughts lingered on the child of a prince as she followed the young woman through the hallways that led to the courtyard.
An old man stood silently in the courtyard, hiding amongst the shadows of the guymelefs. Paruchi was pleased he'd managed to get into the Fanelia Castle stronghold. Being old has its benefits, the wizard laughed to himself. He looked over his shoulder and watched as the young man he'd hired to help assassinate the dragon princess flipped a dagger into the air and caught it in his palm, bored.
"Be patient, Ruik" Paruchi mumbled irritated. His plan was to attack the dragon tamer after the ceremony dedicated to the solder he'd killed. But he was currently examining the courtyard, with the eerie wooden pyre in the center. It would be a long range attack, giving them plenty of time to escape.
The assassin's dark eyes shifted toward the old man and studied him. He'd been approached by this man who promised a hefty sum for the murder of a single woman, a woman that most of Gaea was already celebrating. Ruik, being greedy, didn't think twice before agreeing to the contract. He just didn't expect to have to wait. Rumors fluttered around the region that this woman was also the chosen bride for the Fanelian prince. Her death will make me infamous, Ruik thought. Besides wealth, the only other thing driving the assassin was fame.
"We will retire for the night," Paruchi finally mumbled turning from the courtyard to retreat to their quarters at a nearby inn.
Standing at the window Folken sighed. "Another sleepless night," he mumbled aloud.
"Worried about Aimi again?" Sarda asked halfheartedly for the millionth time in four days. It was once more his turn to stay in the prince's room; Dargas had retired to his own quarter's hours earlier getting the much-needed sleep he'd require for the following nights babysitting post. It was something both men did to ease the minds of the king and queen.
Turning to glare at the cat, Folken scolded Sarda. "She's been asleep for four days, how is that healthy? How can I not worry?"
"I swear to you Folken, Aimi is fine." The cat man replied, standing from his recline, rubbing his temples. Sarda hadn't seen Aimi for himself, but his mother had assured him of her safety, multiple times.
"I need a walk!" Folken declared, frustrated. "I can't stay in this room without thinking about her, dreaming about her, or talking about her!" The prince was ranting as he shoved his boots onto his feet, stuffing the pant cuffs into the shoes harshly.
Storming out of his bedroom, Folken marched down the hallway mumbling to himself and threw open the door to the courtyard with a dramatic sigh. The cool night air brought immediate relief to his senses and mind; cooling his temper and the fierce worry that filled his heart.
Strutting toward the garden's entrance, Folken decided that he'd visit Grandmother Varie. After all, the statue always brought him serenity.
Following at a leisurely distance, Sarda dragged his feet. The prince was frustratingly impatient when it came to Aimi and it was driving the cat man insane. She better wake up soon or I think Folken is going to jump off the castle roof, without using his wings this time. A flashed memory of their childhood connected to the thought.
Aimi felt more alive in the darkness, under the moons pale light, then she had in a long time. Looking at the eerily lit statue of Varie, the dragon tamer felt the urge to rest. "Do you mind if I sit here awhile?" She asked Maragret, who replied with a kind smile. It had been a long time since Aimi had relaxed and she found it ironic that sitting on the fountains pedestal brought a sense of peace and acceptance of her new destiny.
Watching the younger woman close her eyes, Maragret glanced up at the sculpture. "Miss Aimi," the maid began, forgoing to the less formal title for the girl. "That statue is the person little Varie was named after. She was Lord Van's mother and one of the last Draconians," Maragret informed her charge.
"I was told that," Aimi replied with a smile, now looking at the statue. I am all too familiar with you Varie, she thought. Please continue to give me strength. "But what is a Draconian?" The term was new to Aimi, unknown.
Smiling, the maid looked at the statuette's wings. "They are the decedents of the Ancient race that inhabited Atlantis. Draconians tend to hold angelic traits, such as Varie's wings."
"Oh," Aimi replied somewhat speechless. Atlantis…I guess it wasn't a legend. It just traveled from Earth to Gaea…like me.
"Lord Van's brother also had wings, much like his Majesty and the Prince. Did you know that the Prince was named after Lord Van's brother, he died during the Gaea War?" Maragret said with a sneaky smile. Most people didn't discuss Folken's namesake, very few servants knew of the man. She was Hitomi's confident and had been gifted with the hidden knowledge during the reconstruction of Fanelia Castle.
"Van had a brother?" Aimi perked up, her interest completely gained. The dragon tamer knew very little about the Gaea War and Fanelia's history, outside of what she had seen from her dreams and visions.
"Yes, few people speak about Lord Folken. I never knew him, but from what I understand, Lord Van believed his brother dead. That he had passed on during a dragon hunting ritual to ascend the throne after the death of their father. He went out into the forests never to return again." Maragret finished looking down at Aimi now.
"Has the prince ever taken part in this…" Aimi began, a shuffle of gravel interrupting her question. It's Folken; her thoughts whispered sensing him with a sixth sense, the blood leaving her body. In a rush of emotion Aimi realized she wasn't ready to meet with the prince yet, she didn't know when she would ever be ready. It's all happening so much faster than I thought it would. I just woke up! Feeling the instinct to run, Aimi watched the maid's attention turns towards the new company, her well-trained eyes away from Aimi. Taking the opportunity, the dragon tamer begins to slide soundlessly down the fountains pedestal enveloping her self deeper into the shadows and out of the eyesight of everyone.
Kicking loose stones out of his path, hands deep in his pockets, Folken made his way through the garden like a pouting child, Sarda, at a respectable distance, trailing him like a puppy dog.
Looking up to the fountain of Varie, Folken stopped in his footsteps taken aback. The head maid and his mother's confident, Maragret, was standing ever still, just as surprised and alone as he was.
"Prince Folken," the maid greeted him with a nervous bow of her head and a clumsy curtsy.
It was very unusual for a servant to be wandering the gardens in the middle of the night. Even stranger was the fact she appeared alone. "Maragret, are you here by yourself?" Folken asked, his eyes scanning the fountain and pedestal finding nothing and no one, just dark shadows cast by the over growing foliage.
"What?" The maid replied looking up quickly from her bow, her face paling. She spun to where Aimi had been and gasped. She is gone! I knew she wasn't ready to speak with him, but…I thought this would be easy! She chided herself. "N…no, I'm not alone. Apparently my charge has gotten lost." Maragret lied. Or ran away or, dear Goddess, worse! Oh, where did Aimi go? She thought, her stomach dropping, her thoughts turning to the worst. Not again, she can't be gone again!
"Your charge?" Folken asked suspiciously. Something was obviously wrong with his childhood maid; unmarried Fanelian women never wandered the grounds without an escort. Unless you're not from Fanelia, his thoughts concluded, it has to be Aimi. His heart leaped as his eyes once again searched the shadows. Possibly Kallie but… he rationalized, already knowing the doctor would be with an armed escort not a simple maid.
"Um," Maragret stuttered. "Excuse me," she finished, curtsying again then dashing past Folken to escape the informal and rather embarrassing meeting.
Making it to the garden entrance, the maid stopped short. She'd made a mess of things, suggesting Aimi take a late night walk had been her first mistake. Taking her eyes off of the woman had been her second. "She must have run away, so would have yelled out if it were a kidnapping." The maid figured. "I know she's not ready to speak with Lord Folken yet. I need to find her, support her," Maragret finally decided turning to re-enter the garden to search the outer parts of the garden before returning to the statuette.
"That was fascinating," Sarda said amused, shaking his head, coming from another path. He heard most of the conversation, hidden by the well-shadowed paths of the darkened garden. Hiding was easy with the darkness cast from the moon's illumination. "She's lost her charge, that's not like Maragret," the cat man was grinning now. "Wonder who that would be?" His dark eyes darted to the shadows of the fountain.
"Maybe Maragret was lying, she just needed some fresh night air." Folken mumbled turning his back to the statue. "I know I did."
"I don't think so," Sarda shook his head; Aimi's scent was distinct, clean and floral with something unfamiliar and it was coming strongly from the bust of Varie.
"Aimi," Folken said her name quietly. "She's here?"
"Definitely," Sarda responded softly, his index finger pointing to his nose, his eyes glancing toward the statue. "Now's your chance to talk with her, Folken. It's time to tell her how you feel." Sarda urged.
"This isn't right, if she wanted to speak with me why would she hide?" Folken whined through gritted teeth.
Rolling his eyes, Sarda looked at his friend. "She's been through a lot, we've caught her off guard. Maybe she isn't ready but you're not going to get another chance or a better opportunity!"
Hiding in the shadows, Aimi swallowed hard. She'd been left alone with both Folken and Sarda. She couldn't clearly hear what they were discussing over the rippling water, but it appeared to be heated. What am I going to do? If I move they'll see me, if I stay I'll be eavesdropping, Aimi thought, frustrated with her moral dilemma.
Closing her eyes, the dragon tamer attempted to will the situation away, forcing both men to leave the garden in her mind. She peeked open one eye and sighed, her body slumping. They were both still standing in deep conversation.
Why am I hiding from him? She asked herself, feeling foolish. Because I'm not ready to confess what happened yet and that will be one of the first things he'll want to know. Her psyche annoyingly reminded her. I should have just stayed with Maragret, but no, I had to run. She moaned internally, her eyes once again shutting.
"Sarda, do you mind giving me some privacy? I really need to be alone." Folken's voice was noticeably louder now, swayed by his best friend, the prince decided to confess to Aimi what was in his heart, knowing he'd invite heartbreak if she remained hidden, silent to his words. His plan was to admit his feelings to the statue, his grandmother, someone he always came too when he needed direction. I just have never spoken aloud to it...beginning to think the idea was foolish.
Eyes snapping open in surprise, Aimi peered from her hiding place. The cat man was sauntering away seemingly annoyed.
"I'll be at the entrance of the garden, your Majesty," Sarda said sarcastically, saluting with a lavish bow.
Aimi's eyes shifted to the prince. He was sitting on the fountain opposite her with his back turned. We're alone, but…can I…her thoughts reeled. We're not supposed to be alone together. Maragret's lessons of Fanelian courtship remained fresh in Aimi's mind, confusing her mind of what her heart wanted.
"I always come here, looking for guidance and I usually find it in your presence, which is why I came tonight. I need someone I can talk to, someone that won't judge me," Folken started, interrupting Aimi's thoughts.
Who is he talking too? She wondered her eyes wandered up to the statue of Varie. Is it possible that he's talking to her? Does she give him the comfort and peace she grants me?
"Grandmother, I don't want to disappoint Aimi again. Every time I try to protect her, whether from a broken heart, from myself, from harm, I always seem to fall short, failing miserably. She's such an amazing person, with strengths and graces that go unseen by her alone. I don't deserve someone that has the values and wisdom she does.
"Why would she want to be with someone like me? For that matter, why does she even love me? I acted like such a child for so long, I still don't understand how she could even care for me let alone love me." Folken confessed, knowing full well that the woman he spoke of was within hearing him, heartbreakingly unresponsive. He closed his eyes, willing his tightened chest to relax. She's afraid, that's all. She would come if she knew that I know she's there.
Aimi was enthralled by his words. She had yet been able to have a heartfelt conversation with Folken and here he was, confessing his heart to a statue of Varie. Why can't you tell me these things in person? I'm right here and you don't disappoint me! Her mind answered him. She hated the fact that she was eavesdropping and very frustrated that she couldn't respond to sooth his wounded ego and heart, at least without giving herself away. How do I stop him from being so hard on him self? How do I show him he's just as heroic and amazing to me as I am to him? She thought, contemplating on revealing herself.
Taking a deep breath, Folken began speaking again, the words soft. "I know I promised the council that I would ask for her hand in marriage, but so much has happened since I declared that. Maybe she doesn't reciprocate the feelings anymore, maybe they had moved on to Nathan? None of that would surprise me and I wouldn't blame her if she returns to the Mystic Moon. I left her alone during her greatest time of need. I failed to protect her, I can't count how many times." Folken stopped again, shaking his head and sighing. Please Aimi…
Aimi was stunned. She absorbed what he'd said. Marriage was the farthest thing from her mind. What Maragret had said earlier that evening echoed in her mind, it's just a silly servant rumor. The maid has been covering for Folken's declaration. He doesn't know I can't return to the Mystic Moon… Going through a lifetime of emotions in seconds, Aimi felt tears well in her eyes. She was mostly confused, she loved Folken deeply, but she barely knew him outside of the battlefield. They had little time alone together and the few instances they had to get to know each other ended dreadfully. Everything's moving so fast, she thought beginning to move from her hiding place. I don't want to hurt him, but how…
"Aimi!" A deep voice called out, Sarda, causing her to freeze.
"Lady Aimi!" Maragret's voice rang shortly after, closer.
Watching from her hiding place, the two entered the little clearing and approached Folken, who stood to greet them. Aimi choose at that moment to move. She was finished being a shadow.
"What's wrong?" Folken asked, looking at Maragret with even eyes, hiding the raging emotions his heart was undergoing.
"I…I can't find Lady Aimi." The maid admitted finally. "She disappeared just before…" Maragret's voice trailed off. The servant's eyes wandered to the statue of Varie. Standing at the fountains side was Aimi, her shoulders relaxed, eyes apologetic. "Thank the Goddess," Maragret blurted out sidestepping Folken and grasping Aimi tightly. "Where have you been? Were you here the entire time?"
Green eyes flashing towards Folken, who had now turned to look at her, Aimi whispered with a sad smile. "Yes, but please don't tell him."
Pulling away from the girl, Maragret gave a strict look. She didn't like that Aimi had eavesdropped on the prince; this was no way to have a relationship. "You do know there are other ways to see and talk to each other?" The maids voice was low, but chiding.
Blushing in response, Aimi bowed her head slightly embarrassed. "It was never intended to be like this. He wasn't aware of me, and I think it would keep us both from embarrassment if it remained that way." Aimi responded, her voice a mere whisper.
Folken watched the two women exchange words. He'd almost forgotten how beautiful Aimi was, and the light of the moons rays gave her an iridescent glow. Her face was obviously flushed, her eyes evidently avoiding him. She's embarrassed for spying on me. His confession had given him little relief; she had remained hidden during its entirety and he'd lacked the courage to call her out. He wanted to be with her, to speak with her, alone. Ridiculous courting laws… He cursed internally
"Did you speak with her?" Sarda's voice was in his ear.
"No, she didn't reveal herself," Folken mumbled his eyes downcast.
"Fine, Aimi's here now, try again. I will deal with Maragret!" Sarda told him irritated. With a swish of his tail, the cat man left the prince's side.
Shaking his head, Folken watched Sarda slink away towards both women. This is not what I wanted. Not how I intended my proposal, my confession. This isn't what I want! I want to be alone…in each other's arms like at the lakeside…ugh…he groaned mentally at the memory and turned from the group. He'd have to deal with Aimi and the confession she'd overheard some other time, when he felt less broken hearted.
"Ladies, I believe there is someone who has been waiting to speak with Miss Aimi for quiet some time," Sarda spoke smoothly, his hands up in the air as if in defeat, his tail swaying as if annoyed.
Feeling her stomach flip and heart begin to race, Aimi fought the urge to flee again. She still wasn't ready, she thought she'd be able to reason with him about their relationship moving so fast, but she couldn't find an excuse outside of being afraid. How can I have commitment issues? How can I, the person who, in the middle of battle admitted my love for him, be afraid of marriage? Aimi's mind was filled with confusion, her emotions a rollercoaster. Don't I want to be with Folken for life?
"I don't think so," Maragret answered for her charge, stepping in front of Aimi protectively. "Lady Aimi is not prepared to speak with anyone, whether Prince Folken or you, Lord Sarda. This can wait until the morning when she is more rested."
"She has been asleep for four days Maragret," Sarda groaned. He peeked over the maids shoulder, his brown eyes wide and looking innocently mischievous. "So you don't want to speak with Folken, Aimi?" He asked.
Blushing in response to Sarda's sweet expression, Aimi turned shyly away looking to the ground. She couldn't find the words to speak; her mind was still a jumbled mess, arguing with what her heart wanted. Returning her gaze to the cat-man, she noticed, just over Sarda's shoulder, Folken retreating to the gardens entrance, his hands fisted, his head down almost shameful. Neither Sarda nor Maragret had noticed the exit of the prince; both too busy arguing over courtship rules and regulations.
Where? Why? How can he…her mind asked, confused. Folken, how can you leave me standing here with all these unanswered questions? After that confession, how can you turn and walk away from me? Aimi felt the prick of tears come to her eyes as realization hit. I can't live without you. I can't be without you. Don't you know that? You're the one I love. The one I care about above all others. All I have in the world. Aimi's thoughts screamed out toward him, her mind finally deciding to agree with what her heart wanted.
"Folken…" Aimi called out, her voice hoarse. "Folken!" she screamed, darting between a very surprised Maragret and a Cheshire grinning Sarda at a full sprint.
So...here's my own dilemma...
I have been debating with myself how "mature" this next chapter is going to be. It's intimate...but in a sweet way with some underlying adult themes, because, well, the heroes are in their mid to late twenties. This is partially the reason why I cut this chapter short, because of the length of the next section and what it contains. I'm sure I'll figure something out.
As you can tell I introduced a rather new and dark character...how big will his part be in this story? Probably not very, but I needed a new minion (oh and you'll find out what is going on with Brutas and Talon as well - just not a day to day thing) to help out the ever evil Paruchi.
There is some pretty amusing things coming up between the characters and I have the story finished in my mind, down to the last action scene...which will probably be pretty cool...I hope.
I can't promise how long it will take me to post the new chapter but it will be posted.
I've been trying really hard to keep it a chapter a month...which I'm trying to keep to that schedule... it has just been getting later in the month, not earlier.
Please feel free to comment and review...or even to ask me questions...I'm truly enjoying this story and it's practically a novel.
Enjoy!