Another Vision of Escaflowne
Disclaimer: Usual disclaimers apply regarding Tenkuu no Escaflowne. The following is an Original Escaflowne fanfiction / fanart. The story, new characters and events are our own creation. Any resemblance with any other fanwork is purely coincidental.
Author : Celena
Editor: Bellsandy
Illustrator: Bellsandy
~~ Delight in the Experience : http://bellsandi.tripod.com/AVE/index.html ~~
~~ Immerse yourself in the Experience : here ~~
Episode VII
Conflicted emotions
Soundtrack : Original soundtrack two
Song : A far Cry
Shitarr walked slowly through the ashen pavement of Basram, his long dark purple coat gently waving behind him. He did not stop to greet the people he crossed in the streets, nor did he notice the many tall buildings of stone and granite climbing to the sky. He reached a temple and casually strolled in. It was a very modest little building, made of carved wood. The walls represented the history of Basram, graphics engraved in the hard beams picturing the main events of the past. The latest event, the Great War, was still under construction, as artisans sculpted a scene with Guymelefs and warriors fighting for the freedom of Gaea, under the light of a powerful bombing blast of unnatural force.
Shitarr headed to the front of the small temple and halted at the altar. He gazed at the hundreds of burning candles, which were reposing on it. He then bent on one knee and brought his head down in a demonstration of respect. He heard a small, almost hidden laughter to his right and searched for its origin. He smiled to the woman sitting on the first bench and got up to his feet. As he approached her, he looked behind him to the workers who kept busy with their activities, not interested in him or the woman.
"You sure have talent when it comes to pretending, brother…" Kyara said, rising to her feet and greeting him with a warm embrace.
Shitarr smirked and gave a quick glance to the workers behind them.
"Simply making sure not to attract any unwanted suspicions. It would look strange if the Priest did not show respect for his religion…" he answered lightly.
"HA! I can't wait for the moment when these impotent people learn what it truly means to be Priest and Priestess of Elysium!" Kyara replied.
"How is our King?" she added, smirking a false smile.
"The effects of your meddling with his mind is finally wearing off… he seems to feel much better now, he doesn't look ill at all." Shitarr answered, taking her hands in his and obliging her to sit next to him.
Kyara laughed loudly.
"Well I hope so! You've been back for over a week now and I had stopped administrating my deceptive spell even before you came back! Puny little human! Can't even recover from a fake illness!" she said more softly for the workers not to hear her.
Shitarr smiled and admired his luscious womanly sister. Although they both appeared to be no more than twenty-five, They both had white shimmering hair. Hers was long, straight and reached her belly when on each side of her face. Her crimson, voluptuous lips remained in contrast with her pale and soft skin. Her salmon colored eyes danced in the light of the candles and her white teeth glittered at every smile or laughter.
She was wearing a tight chalky blouse and black vest, showing off her curves. Her top was opened at the bottom, showing her sly tummy. She wore black tights that glued to her long sensual legs, which the only sight made every man quiver. She wore a long reddish-brown skirt that opened in the front, covering her rear from wandering eyes. She was definitely aware of the effect she had on men and enjoyed tormenting them with her seductive figure and swaying hips when she walked.
No longer able to resist, he came down on her and kissed her harshly on the mouth. The flavor of her lips set his own on fire and he was to deepen the kiss when stinging pain enveloped his desire and he quickly retreated away. He looked at her with shocked eyes as the taste of his blood invaded his mouth. He brought a gloved hand up to wipe out his bitten, bleeding lip and anger filled his soul as he glared at the wide smile on his sister's face. She came closer to him and whispered to his ear.
"I don't think it is a good idea for us to attract unwanted attention and suspicion just yet dear brother." she said, glancing at the workers who had not noticed a thing.
As he understood his mistake, his anger diminished but he was still furious with the way she had pushed him off.
"Fine." he simply said before rising. He didn't give her another look as he headed towards the back of the temple, pass the workers and out the large doors. Once back out in the city street, he took in a long breather of fresh air to cool down his fury as much as his passion. He didn't hear her footsteps as she came up close behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist, resting her head on his shoulder.
"Are you mad at me darling brother?" she said almost teasingly.
Shitarr sighed. How could he when he could feel her body cuddled against his like that? He held her hands in his and hastily turned around, bringing her arms behind her own back.
"Mmmm, am I being punished?" she teased again.
Shitarr swiftly looked around and when he was sure they were alone, brought his lips to hers in a new passionate kiss. The kiss intensified as he parted her lips with his own and explored her mouth with his tongue. Kyara went limp in his arms and moaned in her throat. Shitarr quickly broke the kiss and backed away, freeing her arms. Kyara looked at him with a mixture of desire and hurt.
"Now we're even" Shitarr stated before turning and heading for the castle.
"Jerk!" she yelled out behind him, which made him smile with satisfaction.
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Van slammed his fists on the round wooden table of his conference room and got up to his feet.
"You are not listening!" he shouted, anger firing his ruby eyes.
He looked around the table, noticing neither the advisors or generals risked meeting his hard glare. Neither, except Lyle and High General Gushen.
"It IS Fanelia's concern if the Tomes of Augury are brought together! The ancient manuscript Lyle told us about will explain the exact procedures to awaken the power of Atlantis!"
"I agree we need to deal with this matter, get rid of Atlantis's shadow over Gaea once and for all, but why must you be the one to take on this task?" the elder of the advisors asked.
Van frowned, it felt as if they hadn't listen to Lyle's words at all. They had been arguing for hours now about the legitimacy of the legends and Lyle's knowledge, then about the different scenarios and consequences of the power of Atlantis on Gaea. He gave a pleading look to his youngest advisor, silently asking him to relate the legends once more.
"Master Jaden" Lyle said softly, attempting to melt the tensing feeling rising in the air.
"Lyla and myself are priestess and priest who have come from afar to warn you of the peril lurking over Gaea. Do not be blinded by our youth, you are not to question our knowledge. We only tell you the truth. We have come to Fanelia, knowing its King had an important role to play in the rebirth of Atlantis's power." Lyle paused, and then pursued.
"We have also to believe the second Tome was brought within Fanelia's borders by one of the Ebony twins. The Ebony twins are known to be, along with the Scarlet twins, the protectors of the four Tomes. Those twins, who have given up family and friends to risk their lives in order to save millions, are said to have all perished doing so. Their deaths must not be in vain. We must find the Tomes before the Ivory twins do. Their wrathful minds have blinded their senses and hearts. They no longer know what they are doing. If we do not intercept the Tomes, there will be no stopping them. It is his Majesty's duty to get involved for he has no choice. He is suspected to be one of the keepers which means he'll be mixed up in this sooner or later. There are to many unknown elements to simply wait and see what is to happen. If the power of Atlantis was great enough to destroy itself, it will surely obliterate Gaea as well. We must act now before it is too late."
A thick silence roamed over the conference room, Lyle's declaration finally sinking in everyone's mind. Van sighed and looked at his men. The three older advisors were lost in their thoughts and the three Generals looking at each other with eyes filled with unspoken questions and worries. Van knew they were thinking their troops were not ready for a battle, even less a second war. He looked at High General Gushen who had closed his eyes, as if in deep meditation. He didn't seem aware of his three General's concern.
Lyle nodded to the King, gesturing him to sit back down at the table. Van complied, feeling himself calming and even more shaken with the burden to come.
"We have no choice." Lyle announced solemnly, adding profoundness to his story.
"What does his Majesty wish to do with this matter?" General Gushen inquired, keeping his eyes closed. He hadn't said a word the entire time and Van was relieved to finally have his support.
"Well…" Van began more smoothly.
"We need to find out who the other keeper is, me being the first is pretty evident. The last of his kind can only mean me."
There were sighs across the table, all hated to be reminded of the King's infamous heritage. Van closed his eyes to this, in order to contain his anger and continued.
"We must also find the Guardian, who is claimed to unleash the power and decide what to do with him or her. We must also find out what and where the key is. Perhaps destroying it will answers our prayers for redemption."
"The best way to do so is to find the Tomes. They indicate all of what you have mentioned and if we find them before the Ivory twins, we favour our side for they will not know of the elements to be joined." Lyle declared.
"Fine, but where to start looking?" asked the advisor named Ronius.
"Lyla and myself will join the search party. Our abilities of dowsing, intensified by one of the keepers presence will likely locate the Tomes before Shitarr and Kyara do." Lyle stated.
"Dowsing?! Hitomi could do that!" Van exclaimed.
Lyle cocked a brow, doubtful that a mere child who wasn't of his origins could match his powers, but kept quiet about it.
"We will need the support of the neighbouring countries. If they have any clue of the whereabouts of the Tomes, they must be warned of the danger. Ronius, you and Jafyr will dispatch messages to all of Fanelia's allies." Van ordered, looking at the two advisors next to him.
"General Gushen, I would like you to join us, we could need your skills if we encounter trouble" Van added.
Then he thought: "when we encounter trouble WHEN we encounter trouble".
General Gushen stayed silent and finally opened his eyes.
"I think not, my Lord." he replied boldly.
Van blinked in surprise as all held their breaths, anticipating the King's anger, which did not come.
"Why?" demanded Van.
"Because I shall stay to protect Fanelia, and train its samurais. I have a feeling the journey on which you are about to embark will be the determining one and that Gaea will meet it's final conflict as a result. Your men will need preparation till then. And besides, I know of an excellent swordsman who could do the job nicely. There is only to ask the King of Asturia for his agreement and I am positive the assistance of the famous Knight Caeli will be appreciated as much as mine would."
Van turned his head to the side. He had thought about the eventuality of another Great War but had pushed it out of his head, the hurt of seeing Fanelia burning and his people suffering was too much and too recent in his mind. Hearing it from another pushed back in the fears and he was thankful to have someone as wise as Gushen to stand up to him. Allen Schezar would surely be glad to initiate a new adventure with him. Feeling himself slightly looking forward to it, he looked back at General Gushen, who was carefully observing him.
"You speak the truth Gushen" Van replied.
"We shall contact the King and Queen of Asturia and inform them of the recent events. We will call for their aid and see what help they can give." he added.
"Perfect!" smiled Lyle, pleased they all finally agreed on the matter.
"In my absence, Master Jaden and High General Gushen will take over my responsibilities." Van ordered, and the two mentioned bowed in obedience.
"Your Highness…" interrupted the elder.
"Please, remember you are the last of the Royal bloodline, if something should happen to you…"
"Nothing is going to happen to me. Don't worry." Van answered, trying to look as confident as he could.
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Allen appeared to coolly analyze what he had just learnt. He let out no expression, entirely lost in his thoughts. He was the complete opposite from the man who had cried his heart out to the world the day his sister was injured in battle. His face was emotionless, his brows only slightly furrowed to prove he had been listening to the Fanelian King, and was reasoning with the new information he had now.
Van had told him of the meeting with Lyle, Lyla and the advisors as soon as he had found him. It was close to evening but the warm sun and breeze allowed them to talk freely on the balcony of the castle throne room. Van studied Allen's reaction and was not surprised to see none, recognizing his old friend from the past Great War. Composed. Wise. Calm. No wonder Hitomi had felt for him, Allen was good looking, strong, intelligent…
"Why am I thinking of that at a time like this?" Van thought, angry with himself for feeling such a weakly emotion as jealousy. He concentrated on the present time and Allen again.
"I am sure the King and Queen will agree to this… but Van, I have to get my sister to safety first. It won't be for a couple of weeks before she can travel home again. I want to bring her back to Asturia, and know her safe there before going on any mission with you…" Allen finally said.
"Allen, your sister will be safe in the castle with my men guarding the area, you have not to worry about her." Van replied, a little hurt that Allen wouldn't trust his men with the care of his sister.
Allen seemed to notice this as he added :
"I know Van, I agree. But she would be all alone in a country she doesn't know and it's the first time she has come to Fanelia since Dilandau has gone. She continually has conflicted emotions about her past and I'm sure it would be safer for her mind to keep the visit as short as possible."
Van hadn't thought of that and agreed by nodding. The last thing he wanted was to see Dilandau resurface while he was away, although it wasn't supposed to be possible, and burn his city down again.
"A missive has already been sent to Asturia, we shall hear of the King and Queen's reaction to this mess in a few days… Till then, I must organize my absence with the advisors who will be replacing me." Van told Allen.
"Van, you can count on my men and I to go through it with you. The Crusade and it's crew is at your service." Allen stated warmly.
"Thank you Allen. I appreciate your aid and as soon as Celena is better, we will head for Palas to take her home. Meanwhile, I am positive there is enough to do in Fanelia to keep me busy…" replied Van smiling softly.
Soundtrack : For Lovers only
Song : Cradle song
With that, Van turned and left Allen to his thoughts. The older man looked back over the city of Fanelia and sighed. The routine in his life had sure vanished the day he had met the King of Fanelia. Allen thought of his new mission to come. Asturia was sure to agree with the King's plan. Allen knew King Dryden would do anything in his power to stop a war from erupting, or anything worse.
He thought of his new King and frowned. He had been slightly envious when Dryden had been obliged to come back to Palas and take his place as King. He and Millerna had rediscovered themselves and her attention gradually turned completely towards the King. Allen was glad she had fallen in love with Dryden, but couldn't help to feel sadden. His fling with the dashing young princess was thing of the past. Letting loneliness invade his heart once more. Of course it was easy for him to have company every day (and night) he wished, but the feelings weren't there. Thankfully, he was no longer alone. Celena was back and she was mischievous as ever, keeping him busy.
Millerna had only been a fling. He seduced her because she reminded him of Marlene, her older sister, his one true love. Allen's heart ached.
"True love…" he thought to himself.
"Hitomi…."
From what Van had told him, chances were that he would see her again soon. He was unsure of his feelings for her. He had understood the bond between the King and the girl from the Mystic Moon. Their love for each other was as evident as the rotation of the sun and moons. But still, he couldn't help to feel something more than affection for her… but it wasn't love…was it? How would he react to see her again? To see her fall into Van's arms? Allen frowned and glanced at the wine in his glass before gulping it all down.
Lyla. The name had such a melodious chime to it. He had enjoyed her company the afternoon he had spent with her and had attempted to se her again. She had been to busy with her duties as maid and she spent most of her free time with Lyle. For the past week he had seek to spend time with her but to his regret, she kept avoiding him.
Mystery floated all around her for she did not quite speak of herself the afternoon they had been together. They had only appreciated each others company in silence. The only conversation they really had was when he had mentioned his worries for his sister, not her wound, for she was to recover nicely, but her mischievous ways, the energy and taste for adventure she bared. Lyla had listen quietly to his speech, smiling to him. He didn't understand why, but her presence soothed him.
Even without saying a word, she had made him feel better about it all. They had taken a seat on a bench in the Royal gardens and as he gazed into the rich abyss that were her eyes, he had leaned towards her, wanting nothing but to relish her gentle, rosy lips. She had turned her head to the side, staring at the flowers next to her. He was astonished to see a woman refuse him and had immediately apologized for his rude manners. She had then looked up to him with smiling, comforting eyes and he had to refrain himself to not give the kiss another try.
Now he understood better the mystery and her duties. She had been busy with Lyle all this week and it was only to protect the people of this world. Allen scolded himself. He had wished to see her all week, only to answer to his manly instincts and earthly desires. He wanted to be with her again and that was all he could think of. She on the other hand, was trying to save Gaea from destruction, she had no time for his attempts of seduction. She was one special woman, with a very special mission. Allen understood that clearly now.
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Although the days were getting longer with every new rising of the sun, they all seemed too short for Van. Waiting for Celena to recover before leaving Fanelia had given him the time to better organize his leave. Almost a week had passed and the Fanelian King had been as busy as ever. A few days back, he had decided to built a shelter up in the mountains for his people if something should happen to Fanelia again. He had helped the workers transport the materials and supplies to the chosen site and had participated in some of the construction. His duties soon called him back to the Capital and he resigned in leaving his trusted workers continue without him.
The King had been obliged to communicate personally with some of the worried countries that had recently heard the news. Van never had thought he would be the one trying to be optimistic and cheerful for others, but his royalty required him to do so and he succeeded in calming the other rulers down. Van wished he had had the time to see General Gushen and find out how the intensive training was doing but he just was to damn occupied!
The King walked steadily towards the lady Schezar's chambers in search of Allen. Almost thankful they had to wait for Celena to be well enough to travel, Van thought he had probably another week in front of him to be sure everything would be in place before leaving for Asturia and beginning his quest. Clutching to the piece of paper he had only received minutes ago, he arrived to Celena's doors and paused. He had been so busy, he had only first visited her the day before! He thought of his first encounter with Allen's sister.
"Enter." a low, almost annoyed, masculine voice answered from within Celena's chambers.
A grin crept to Van's sour lips before he turned the doorknob and came in. The room was bright, for it was the middle of the afternoon and a soothing aroma of lavender filled the air. Allen was sitting in a chair next to the bed and had been talking with his sister, who was comfortably sitting under the sheets. Van lost his grin when his eyes turned to her. Her beauty had been whispered through out the castle and he was a bit surprised at himself for agreeing with what he had heard. Her large, tender blue eyes were settled on him and he blushed, turning his gaze away. She had caught him staring and she knew it, for a small smile appeared on her gentle lips.
Allen welcomed the King as he got up to his feet. Van briefly smiled to him and brought his gaze back to her, approaching the bed.
King Van, I believe you have never met my sister, Lady Celena Schezar." Allen said, watching Van advance.
It was true, they had never formally met since the Dilandau episode.
Van surprised Celena, and himself, with the formality he adopted by bending on one knee and gently taking her soft hand in his gloved one, brushing his lips, not kissing, on the back of her hand. The King then looked up to see her soften look and smiled to her saying :
"Pleased to finally meet you Lady Celena."
Celena smiled back and took her hand from his and voiced the same thought.
They talked briefly about her recovery before Van requested Allen to follow him to his study for a discussion he needed to have with him. He was sure Allen hadn't said a word to Celena about the past events and didn't wish to bring it up in front of her without her brother's consent. Allen had apologized to Celena and had promised to return rapidly. Allen had nodded to her and turned to the doors. He heard her soft voice almost whispering to him:
"I hope to meet with you again your Highness…"
Van smiled but did not look back, and opened the doors letting Allen and himself out the room.
Van looked at the dark doors before him and sighed. How would Celena be today? Their previous meeting had felt awkward, but warm. With no further thought, he knocked on the door, expecting to hear Allen's annoyed voice answer and was perplexed to hear Celena's instead.
Van walked in the room, breathing in Celena's pleasant essence. The guestroom she was staying in looked warm and cozy, she had had more than the time to have fresh flowers picked every day and she had asked for the doors to the balcony to be opened, letting the heated draft in. Van came closer to the bed, greeting her with a warm smile.
"Lady Celena, you look in even better shape than yesterday, how are you feeling?" he asked, taking a seat on the chair Allen always used, next to her.
"Fine, thank you King Van. I'm sure to be on my feet very soon, the healer said it will be only a matter of days now before I can have a walk." Celena answered with her own bright smile.
She had hoped the King would come to see her again. She had been surprised to be so comfortable with him. As Dilandau, she hated the King she remembered. When he had came through the doors the day before, her apprehensions had lifted, and she even felt quite drawn to the hot-tempered boy.
"I am pleased to see you recovering so quickly." Van stated, not daring to meet her eyes.
"Do not worry yourself with me, I need not to be protected, as my brother so deeply believes so." she added.
Van looked up, surprised at the remark.
"Hitomi told me the exact same thing once, more than once…" he thought.
He looked into Celena's eyes and was mystified by them. He did not see the evil lurk, the one he had seen so many times in Dilandau's flaming eyes. No. In Celena's eyes he could only see warmth, pride, strength and…passion?
Van looked away, feeling irrelevant as he felt the color come to his cheeks. He looked back at once as he felt her small hand on his.
"I am sorry for what I have done in the past Lord Van, to your kingdom and to Gaea. I know I did not have much power to stop Dilandau and that there was not much I could do, but still, he represents part of me and I beg for your forgiveness" she pleaded, her eyes filled with grief and sorrow.
Van did not know what to say. He had known better than to blame the girl for actions she had no control over and didn't feel any anger or resentfulness towards her. He examined her attractive features. Her hair had been combed behind her ears and the once short mellow hair was now reaching her shoulders. Her eyes were deep with regret and her small lips were curved into a sad expression. She did feel somewhat like Hitomi, and Van brought his other hand on hers.
"Please, Lady Celena, you have not to mourn the past. I have never thought of you as the one responsible for the tragedies that have occurred, you are welcome now, and will always be welcomed in my kingdom." he replied amicably.
"I wish for us to be friends your Highness." Celena smiled with relief.
"We shall be, and please, call me Van, close friends don't use the title around me." "Except for Merle, who can't let go of the Lord thing" he thought to himself.
Celena genuinely smiled to him, showing off what Van suspected to be a very attractive smile to most men. He smiled back to her and showed off his own white teeth grin.
"Have you seen your brother today?" he asked still smiling.
"No, he shouldn't be far though, he normally gets here sooner, I'm actually surprised his not here now!" Celena answered knitting her eyes together, pretending she was worried for Allen.
At that moment, a knock was heard on the door, and they both broke up in a loud laughter, knowing too well that Allen was probably the one on the other side.
"Come in" Van responded, being the first to calm down.
Allen walked in and looked at Van and his sister with questioning eyes, he was amazed to see Van in such a good mood. Noticing Celena was trying not to laugh because of the pain it was bringing to her ribs, he immediately walked to her, putting both hands on each shoulder.
"Stop Celena, you're tiring yourself!" Allen commanded, which actually only made Celena laugh louder, the idea of Allen ordering her to just stop laughing making the situation even funnier. She shot a look at the Fanelian King who was just smiling to her, he too had seen her pained expression through her laughter.
When the pain was intense enough, she was obliged to calm herself down, not wanting to reopen he wound. She gazed from one man to the other.
"I'm alright" she said giggling.
Both men sighed and looked at each other.
"I was looking for you Allen, I have received news from Asturia." Van said, taking the parchment he had put on the table while talking with Celena earlier and gave it to Allen.
Allen sighed and looked up to Van after reading the message. Celena noticed his blank expression and figured out he was trying to hide something from her. She was close enough to snatch the piece of paper and without hesitation did so. She brought the letter to her heart. Allen reached for it, frowning but stopped and requisitioned her to give it back to him.
"Sure, but I want to know what's going on first…" Celena replied, smiling brightly, hoping it would encourage her brother to do so.
When she perceived his hard look on her, she turned to Van, sending him a silent plea with her eyes.
"Come on Allen, you'll be away for days, perhaps weeks, what were you going to tell her anyway to explain such a long absence?" Van retorted crossing his arms in front of his chest.
Celena furrowed her brows and looked back to Allen.
"You're leaving?" she asked, feeling upset to see him leave yet fortunate that she was going to finally spend some time alone.
Allen backed away from her and looked out the window, absentmindedly. When Allen gave no response, she looked down and read the message from her King and Queen.
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Fanelia,
When receiving you're message, the Queen and I agreed to do all that was in our power to help with your quest.
By the, we order Sir Allen Schezar to participate in the searches of the Tomes with you. Know that he is at your service.
Meanwhile, we shall try to find out more about the Tomes of Augury and their emplacements.
May the gods be with you…
Dryden Fassa
Asturia
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Celena looked up confused.
"What is the meaning of this?" she asked Allen, then Van.
Understanding Allen was not going to try to prevent him from telling her, Van told Celena the events of the past week. Telling her of the Tomes, his part in the prophecies and the search they were about to begin.
"But this was decided over a week ago! How come you haven't left yet?" she asked the King puzzled.
"This may be an important journey, but I still am King of a growing country, and I must prepare my leave so that none will suffer from their rulers absence…" Van replied.
Celena stared at her brother, he had moved to the window during Van's narration, and was now deeply lost in his thoughts as he gazed at the scenery before him.
"I want to go with you." Celena said firmly, trying to make it sound as a statement, not a request.
Allen's shoulders dropped and he closed his eyes.
"No." was his only answer.
"I was not asking Allen, I can be of help!" Celena replied, trying to stay calm.
"This is not a task for a Lady." Allen answered coldly, not opening his eyes.
"Oh! I'm sorry! I forgot the Knight had that code of honor thing and the duty to protect the weak… well I'm not weak!!" she almost shouted.
Van surprised himself as he compared her fiery temper to Hitomi's when she was angry with him.
Allen turned at the sound of her angry voice.
"There is no need yelling Celena." he stated, unaffected by her manner.
Celena crossed her arms together, and glanced a look at Van for help. He had convinced Allen to tell her their story, maybe he could do the same for convincing Allen to allow her along.
Van noticed this and smiled to her.
"You're injured Celena." Van told her softly.
"I do not wish to see you get harmed again." the King added.
Celena's jaw dropped. She had not suspected the King would use her injured condition against her. She was also surprised to hear him say that HE didn't want to see her injured further.
"Fine." she pouted, looking down on the light turquoise covers of her bed.
Allen smiled to her and brought a hand to her face that she refused, turning her head the other way. Allen understood she was irritated with him and took his hand away from her before nodding to the King and leaving the room.
Van watched him leave and glanced back to Celena. She was gazing at the door her brother had closed behind him. She uncrossed her arms and lowered herself in the bed, bringing her head to the pillow. Van whispered her a good rest before rising from his chair and walking towards the doors himself.
"Van?" he heard her winsome voice behind him.
He halted and looked back at the bed.
"Come see me tomorrow." she implored, gazing deeply into his eyes.
Van recognized a familiar loneliness in those eyes.
"I will."
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The next days went on even faster. Van participated in the training of his new soldiers. Although he did not plan on using it, he organized Escaflowne to be moved into the Crusade. He made sure the construction of the shelters in the mountains were going well and helped Lyle and Lyla with their research for information about the castle and the secret underground passages. They had told him they believed that perhaps one of the Tomes was hidden within the castle, and that it could not have been burned when the castle had because it was protected with magic. Van didn't understand how one of the Tomes could be right there in the castle but helped the twins as much as he could, helping them discover passages even he did not know till then.
Lyla had been liberated from her duties as a maid, her true identity being revealed. She was a Priestess of Elysium, with knowledge and mystical powers. Lyle was a Priest of Elysium as well, and thereby earned respect from all who encountered them. The Elysium clergy was known through out Gaea to be pacific and clement, interested in the ancient arts of sorcery, they hardly used their powers, living among themselves, apart from society. The few that did go and explore the world were immediately welcomed and invited to join in Royalty, acting as important and trusted advisors, like the two that were now living in Basram for the past forty years.
Van also tried to see Celena as much as possible, their friendship growing with every visit. She had surprised him the day before when he had found her walking in the corridors of the castle, a hand on the wall for support. She smiled to him when he came closer, proud she was now strong enough to walk. He had put her arm over his shoulder and had helped her back to her room, tucking her slender body under the heavy covers of her bed. He was happy she was doing well, and had stayed to talk with her for hours.
Van was now looking over Fanelia through the large window of his study. It had been another nice, warm day and the sun was slowly descending for the night. Worry embraced his heart with its tight grasp but he tried to ignore it. He lifted his gaze to the Mystic Moon and was surprised to see that it seemed actually more hidden behind the other, the smaller moon was almost completely within the Mystic one's ring. Van frowned. He looked down and drew his sword. He stared at its prolonged blade. He had never figured out how it had came back to Gaea. He had attached it to a tree on the Mystic Moon and had left it there. When he had come up to his chambers for the first time after his trip, he had found it there, in it's usual place, sheath and belt, leaning on the wall next to his bed.
He glanced at the Fanelian emblem and put his sword back in its sheath before gazing at the moons again.
"Hitomi, I miss you. I want to see you again. Why do you not respond?" Unconsciously, he brought his hand to his heart, searching for something that was no longer there.
"The pendant, is it because I gave you back the pendant that my wishes wont reach you anymore?" he thought some more.
"What do the dreams mean? Why are you crying in pain? What's happening to you up there?" Van concentrated on her, on her world, trying once more to reach her thoughts. She would not respond. He could not understand why she had pushed him away the way she had. It hurt like a thousand blades cutting through his heart. Nothing could hurt as much as hearing those words, which kept echoing in his mind for the past two weeks. With the dreams he was having every night since the fateful meeting with Hitomi, he was even more confused and wondered why it seemed to him that she actually did want him to stay.
"I'll see you again." he thought.
"I'll see you again!" he declared out loud.
He then turned and headed for what would probably be one of his last council meetings before his departure. Since Celena could now stand, they had decided to leave for Asturia in three to four days. Van was now glad she wouldn't be part of the journey, He did not wish to see her harmed. He wanted to know she was safe.
Walking towards the conference room, he heard swift, silent steps coming from behind him. His frowned features lit up a bit as he felt Merle's arm lock in his.
"Lord Van! Where are you headed?" she asked, hoping to spend some time with him before the trip. She hadn't seen much of him lately and he had been sharing his little free time with the Lady Celena.
She hated to share him with her, but as long as it kept his mind off Hitomi, she would refrain her enviousness. She wanted him to be happy, and the past week and days had kept him so busy that she was almost glad she couldn't see him. It meant he had a lot on his mind. Too much to think of her. Merle never suspected she could be wrong.
"To the council, they said we must meet, something urgent has come up…" Van replied, bringing his hand on the one she had put on his other arm.
"Oh… then I guess I'll see you later right?" Merle replied, a little disappointed.
"I don't know Merle, depends on when this meeting will end." he replied disappointed too.
They arrived at the double doors to the conference room and Merle regretfully let go of his arm. He smiled down to her and entered the room, closing its large doors behind him. She gazed at the doors for a while before slowly turning and leaving the area.
Van looked at his council members, they all seemed very worried.
"So, What is going on this time?" Van inquired, casually taking his seat.
"A thought troubles us your Highness." Ronius stated.
"Which is?" Van demanded, looking around the table. His three advisors were present, his four Generals, Lyle, Lyla and Allen also.
"Shitarr and Kyara reside in the Basram kingdom. Shitarr was here as the Basram ambassador, which means he keeps close contact with its leader."
"Yes, and?" Van asked.
"The messenger we sent to Basram never came back…" Jaden replied.
"What!?" Van responded icily.
"Basram probably does not know of the Tomes of Augury and Shitarr's plans. He and Kyara probably intercepted the messenger before he got to the King's court." Lyle stated.
"Basram has an incredible army. The new weapon they used during the Great War is an awesome explosive device that can easily devastate any Capital they wish to attack." added Allen.
"When Basram hear of the war preparations the other countries are silently undertaking, they will surely be upset and we have no way of communicating with the Basram King to letting him know what is going on…" Lyla said smoothly.
"Why are the other countries preparing for war?" demanded Van alarmed.
"Because we are." answered General Gushen.
"We have been heavily training our troops and the countries we have informed of the Tomes wish to be prepared if we fail to find the Tomes before Shitarr and Kyara do." added Jafyr.
Van closed his eyes and brought a hand to his head, massaging his temple with the pad of his fingers.
"Lyle, Lyla, can't you communicate with the King with your mind abilities?" Jaden inquired.
Lyla looked rapidly around the table, every soul held their breaths, hoping the solution could be that easy.
"Unfortunately, Shitarr and Kyara have created a mind barrier around the Basram kingdom. There is no way of breaching it." she responded sadly, setting her gaze on Allen's.
"My fears of war might cause one, how ironic." Van thought aloud.
"Your Majesty, no one will declare war on no one. It is only precautions we are taking. We simply apprehend the moment when Basram learns of this… how will they react?" one of the Generals inquired.
"We must send new messengers to every country, warn them of Basram's possible threat, telling them not to worry for a battle to come. They must participate in the search for the Tomes instead of preparing war. War against Draconians, if they are revived, might not be a war of armed conflict…" Van ordered.
"Rather a war of the wills." Lyla whispered. Looking at the Fanelian King. He was wise, yet so young. He had learned from his past experience in war.
The meeting was soon adjourned and they all got up from their seats and walked out the conference room. Allen saw Van leave towards the Royal gardens and the Generals head for the training barracks. The four members of the council left for the council room, probably to have the messages sent through out Gaea. He spotted Lyla, walking in the opposite direction in the main hallway and walked up to her.
"Lyla?" he implored, causing her to slower her paste in order to let him get to her level.
She kept on walking silently, not bothering to lift her gaze to his. As he walked soundlessly beside her, he admired her features once more. She was not wearing the maid uniform anymore but what would be her Priestess clothing. She was now wearing a pale sandy and blue dress with sleeves that reached her elbows. The gown was elegant yet simple and it flew around her lightly and enhanced her natural beauty. Although it didn't look like it when she was standing still, her skirt was opened in the front and when she walked, showed the pale tights that she wore underneath to hide her slender legs. Her long skirt reached her ankles and she wore high boots.
When he wouldn't say anything, she stopped and finally lifted her gaze to his. She was baffled with what she saw in his eyes. She searched his mind and didn't find any of the upsetting, wondering desires she had sensed from him during the past week. Nothing of the flirty playboy she had felt was left. He seemed genuinely interested in her and this new warmth appealed to her.
"Sir Allen," she began.
"Allen" he cut her off immediately.
"Sir Allen," she repeated, emphasizing on the Sir. "Does what you have do say concern our mission?" she inquired.
Allen was taken aback by her irritated expression but kept his look on her and smiled in an effort to have her smile back. Lyla willed herself to stay composed and awaited his answer, examining his regard, obviously trying to see through his thoughts.
"Priestess, I believe you know what I wish to tell you, and if you really want me to, I will gladly phrase the certitude that coats every single thought I have about you…"
Lyla's eyes widened and she started walking again. Allen smiled to this and followed her. His feelings had grown during the last weeks and he didn't only feel physical attraction towards her anymore. He had first taken her for a simple chambermaid with who he could have some fun. But after spending time with her and knowing her better, his craving for her had taken a twist, and as he suspected, she had traveled through his mind like an open book and was now fearful of what could happen between them.
"Sir Allen, I do not believe this is the place nor the time…" she answered him lightly.
Allen gently, but firmly gripped her arm and brought her close to him, she languished as she felt his spicy breath next to her ear. Shivers traveled from her spine down to her womanhood and down her legs to her toes. She was attracted to him. But she had been disappointed to see two weeks earlier that he only wanted from her what all the others had wanted. But now, she felt something else, she sensed desire in him, but something stronger was igniting it. This was new to her and did not know how to react. It was taking her by surprise and it surprised her even more that with her psychic powers, she hadn't seen it coming.
Allen took the time to breathe her in, her fragrance was intoxicating and he couldn't associated it with anything on Gaea. A mixture of the sea air and flowers and evening breeze. He would have to let her go before it was to late.
"If this is not the time, Priestess, I can wait. Besides, I won't be too far."
She quivered some more with his words and was thankful when he let her go. She tried to avoid his glare but he brought his hand to her chin and forced her to look up. She saw tenderness in his eyes and satisfaction for the effect he had on her. She silently cursed and moved away from him. She shakily began to walk again and Allen let her leave, smiling as he remembered her scent.
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Van needed to think things over. He had not visited his parents grave since the day before the celebrations and he desperately needed to meditate over the many events of the past weeks. He was tired, even if he was getting a little more sleep than when he had come back from the Mystic Moon, and his thoughts and emotions had leveled to a critical edge. He felt his nerves and muscles were tensed and he decided he would spar in the moonlight for practice after his meditation. Walking through the exotic gardens, he took the time to inhale the perfume of the many flowers. The sky was painted with pastel colors of rose and orange as the sun was now hidden behind the mountain. The evening buoyant had a glimmering effect on the coloration of the flowers and leaves around him. They almost glowed in the dim grounds. He slowly reached the lagoon and closed his eyes as he breathed in its aromatized draft.
"Hello Van"
Van quickly opened his eyes. He did not expect to see anyone in the gardens and smiled to the young woman sitting on one of the benches surrounding the lagoon. Her long white robe seemed to glitter and her shoulder length silver blond hair as well. She was smiling sweetly to him and nodded him to come foreword, gently tapping the place next to her on the bench.
Van complied and sat next to her.
"Did you come all the way down here on your own? Your brother is going to have a fit!" he said softly, teasingly.
Her laughter filled the evening air and Van thought it was one of the nicest thing he had heard in a long time.
"Thinking of Allen having a fit is quite amusing. Nice to see you have a sense of humor, something else to add on my What I like best about Van list." she answered softly.
Van grinned and stared at his boots.
"What are you thinking?" Celena asked him gently, after a few minutes of silence.
Van looked up to her and gazed in her sapphires orbs. She was smiling softly to him, with a look of understanding and caring. She brought her hand up and hesitated before gently caressing the rough skin of his jaw line. Van stiffened to the feel but did not stop her. He closed his eyes to the soft touch and savored the moment as for once, no worries mingled with his mind.
He felt her moving close to him and gasped at the feel of her tender lips on his. He opened his eyes in shock and looked at her closed ones and resplendent features. He did not back away and couldn't understand why. His eyes dropped as the kiss deepened and cherished the new sensations he was feeling. All to soon the kiss ended and Celena ruefully backed away. She searched his gaze intensely, trying to demystify his expression. Van looked at her in awe, and quickly got up to his feet. Now he definitely needed to meditate over his parents grave!
He smiled briefly to her and left towards the forbidden area of the gardens, leaving Celena to her thoughts.
"Gods what have I done?!" she thought, covering her face with her hands. "What will he think of me now?" she immediately asked herself, thinking of another.
She didn't think she was attracted to Van, but seeing his lost gaze, his longing for affection, she just couldn't ignore the loneliness that was radiating from his soul. Celena was not certain of her feelings towards the Fanelian King, but she was sure she didn't want to lose his friendship. He had hardly talked about himself when they saw each other, avoiding the subject of his sadness. She knew it had something to do with the Mystic Moon girl her brother had talked about. She so wanted to help him, she hadn't plan on kissing him, it just… happened. She brought her fingers to her lips, still feeling the heaviness of his lips over hers. She smiled sadly.
"My first kiss…"
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Shitarr and Kyara walked slowly towards the courtroom. Since Shitarr's return from Fanelia, three weeks had past. They had planned out well what they were going to say, and what magic they were going to use on the King. The King trusted them with their recommendations. When they had first come to Basram, they had disposed of his High Priest and Priestess and had easily replaced them. By blowing an illusion spell over the castle, Shitarr and Kyara appeared to be the usual and former advisors of the King to all who lived there and had known the two pastors. It had been too easy. They had chosen this country because their King had only two advisors. And Basram's technology was by far the greatest compared to the other countries. If they ever needed fire power, they had the best.
They entered the courtroom and smiled warmly at the King sitting on his throne. He watched the two elderly forms approaching him and smiled back.
"How are you my friends…" the King asked, bringing one hand up for them to kiss. He was a big man, not very tall and it made him look chubbier than her really was. His large cape enveloped most of his body and his metal helmet descended to his neck, giving the impression he had no neck at all.
When the old, grey hair priestess kissed his Majesty's hand, he shuddered. But gave no thought about it, believing it was only a draft from one of the opened windows. Kyara smiled to this, the spell was cast. He would never doubt what they were about to tell him.
"My Lord" Shitarr began, gazing at the man sitting in front of him. The King was not looking in his eyes but rather at his chest, which was normal, for the Priest Shitarr was impersonating had been rather short, and the image he projected to the King was the image of that very Priest. The King and his subjects had no way of knowing their beloved advisors had been replaced.
"You look preoccupied old man, what must you tell me that is such a weight on you're shoulders?" the King asked.
"Your Highness, I fear I have terrible news for you, it concerns Fanelia…" Shitarr said slowly.
"Dear Gods! Is anything wrong with the young Fanelian King?!" The Basram King inquired, worried.
"No. In fact, he is doing quite well… But he has made disturbing statements while I was there three weeks ago, statements I can no longer ignore." Shitarr pursued.
The expression on the King's face was of relief at the mention of the Fanelian King being fine then worried again.
"What do you mean? Please, continue Priest." he urged.
"During the evening meal, and the ball afterwards, he started a discussion concerning Basram, that it's military force might represent a danger for the other countries…" Shitarr slyly answered.
"What?!" the King exclaimed in surprise.
"What is the meaning of this??" he added.
"Fanelia and some other countries suggested stopping Basram's from rising in glory before it becomes to powerful to control…"
The Kings gaze moved from Shitarr to Kyara.
"What? How dare they plot against me in my absence! After what we did for them during the Great War! How can they so easily forget??" The king then looked down at Shitarr and demanded:
"It's almost been three weeks since the Fanelian Festivities! Why have you not said a word before?"
Kyara harden her look as she concentrated on the spell she had cast moments ago, intensifying its power.
"Because of your illness, and because I hoped I was mistaken. But recently, I have sensed Fanelia gathering it's forces with those of the neighboring countries, obviously conspiring something… I had to make sure of the information before we advised you my Lord…" Shitarr answered, bowing.
The King started shaking. Anger, hurt and questions filled his heart. His people had joined the Fanelian King in his battles against Zaibach. He had willingly given him all the power he had in order to help him save Gaea… and this was his thanks?
"That little inexperienced brat of a King!" he thought to himself. This made Shitarr and Kyara smile inwardly, sensing the conflict in the Basram King's head.
"Well, we have not a moment to loose! I shall have prepare our troops, We will send a message to the Fanelian King, ordering his submission. He has one last chance of saving his country, then we attack! We'll show them it's already too late to control Basram!!"
Shitarr and Kyara sighed with satisfaction as the King stepped down from his throne, and started to yell at the Guards standing at the courtroom doors. They did not hear what he was saying, occupied with their heated mind discussion.
"Wasn't that easy?" thought Kyara.
"Quite indeed!" thought Shitarr back.
"There's no stopping our plans now! The prophecies have started and won't be stopped until the rebirth of Atlantis in theses soils." Thought Kyara.
"Have I already said that it is always, only a matter of time?" Shitarr asked, holding back a maniacal laughter.
Kyara smiled to him and turned her head to the King as he approached them.
"In case of a confrontation I will send Gewel Kianty to lead the special troops. He has a promising future with the Basram army." he said more softly to the advisors.
Kyara and Shitarr gave each other a knowing glance and replied together.
"His Majesty knows best…" they said, bowing.
They watched silently as a young man entered the courtroom and kneeled in front of the Basram King.
"Greetings, My Lord, I pledge my loyalty to Basram's ascension and place my life in your hands." the soldier prayed hoarsely.
"Rise son, listen to what we have to say." the King told him, putting a hand on his shoulder.
Gewel rose to his feet and glanced to the two advisors. They both looked at him with a smirk on their lips but stayed quiet. Gewel was a young lad with a sense of calculation and determination. He wasn't very tall, but didn't need to be as his sword fighting technique was excellent and he had proved to be a fantastic Guymelef pilot. He wore a black bodysuit. With loose pants and reddish-brown vest. He wore a metal armor covering his chest, arms and legs. His long keen blade was sheathed on his left hip. His pale brown hair was messy and his eyes a mystifying blue-grey. He grabbed the scroll his King had thrown to him with his light brown-gloved hand. He quickly glanced to his King before unfolding the map of Gaea and laying it out on the stoned table in the middle of the room.
"This is Fanelia, Asturia, Freid, Ezgardia, Deadalus, Cesario." the king sullenly said, pointing at every country as he spoke their names.
"They are preparing an attack against our empire. I will have the Captains form barriers around Basram for protection against the invaders, but I need someone I trust to remove the object of this confrontation, the head of this nonsense treachery. Van Fanel of Fanelia." the king added.
"The dragon…" Gewel whispered.
"I want you to choose your men and eliminate Fanel." the king ordered.
Gewel lifted his gaze from the map and brought his right fist to his heart.
"I, Gewel Kianty will rid you of the nuisance that suppresses our kingdom." he joined his feet and knocked his heals together before saluting and leaving the room.
The king did not hear his last words as he exited through the large doors.
"The Dragons slayers shall resurrect. And this time, will not fail their mission!"
Gewel sneered crudely.
Author's note : Gewel is pronounced Jewel
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