Date. 09.01.2001
Time. 10.42 pm
Music. Guns & Roses "Sweet Child o' Mine"
Chapter 13
Copyright. I don't own any of the characters of the Vision of Escaflowne or the show. Please don't sue me!
Author's Notes. Hello people! Ok, so I lied again. I'm sorry. I really thought I never was going to finish this chapter. But I was bored so I sat down and wrote this chapter STRAIGHT! It took hours, but I got to download music and play on my new laptop at the same time. Wheee! So this will definitely be the last installment until I get settled down at my school next week. I have a plan for my upcoming chapters so hopefully I can get things rolling again. Thanks!
The Vision of Escaflowne. Rota Fortunae
Chapter 13. Second Wind
* * *
Hitomi drew her cloak closer to her face and snuggled deeper into the warm sleeping skins. It was evident that the first snow fall would hit this climate sooner than others and seemed more chillier than Fanelia had been. I guess our worlds rotate on a similar axis or something, she thought. That's why everything nothing really changes. There's not a large difference in location.
But I can't say 'our worlds' anymore, can I? I've chosen. I chose to live here on Gaea with Van because he asked me. I'm giving up my existence on Earth for him. I don't think he truly realizes my sacrifice. I just want to see Mom one more time to tell her…
She sighed and felt something tighten around her waist. Out of the corner of her eye, she could see Van sleeping soundly behind her, his arms encircling her in protection.
They remained on the rock for hours, not saying much, just enjoying each other's presence. He could tell that she was still exhausted and told her that they should return to the camp. Her body needed to regain its energy for the task ahead of her. The celebration was going strong when they walked into the village, even though the sun would dawn in a few hours. Tutu said that they could go to her hut and that she would not bother them that night.
Hitomi collapsed onto the skins, not bothering to remove her shoes. Van knelt beside her and carefully slipped off one shoe, then the next one, and tossed them aside. He crept on hands and knees to where she lay and lowered himself next to her, never letting his eyes leave her face.
She smiled at him and played with his hair, tucking a loose strand behind his ear. He leaned in and kissed her passionately. She did nothing but ease into it, falling deeply into the abyss. They parted lips, she remaining in his arms and drifting off to sleep. But she knew without looking that he watched over her as she slept.
I know I made the right decision, she thought, smiling at his pacifying look on his face. He's my angel.
She closed her eyes again, wishing she could have just a few more hours like this.
* * *
Escaflowne knelt on one knee in the village's clearing. The sun had lightened the sky an hour before and Van woke up, leaving Hitomi to sleep a little longer while he fetched the Guymelef.
The inhabitants were either busy with the harvest out in the fields, or slept in late, too tired from the previous night's festival. Tutu managed to take a break from her work and watched them prepare Escaflowne for departure.
"Asturia is in that direction, young one," she said, pointing to the west. "It usually takes a few days walk to get there."
Van nodded and looked at Hitomi, who had arrived behind him. "Are you ready?"
"Yes," she said softly. She watched Van as he placed his hand in front of Escaflowne's breast jewel and opened its cockpit.
"Hitomi!"
She turned around to see Murham sprinting and pushing his way through the gathering crowd. She bent down to give the wolf-boy a farewell hug.
"You're leaving already?" he asked sadly as they broke the embrace.
She nodded. "I have to do something really important," she said. "But I promise I'll come back and see you once I'm done."
"Here," he thrust out his hand, bearing something inside. "I want you to have this."
She held out her own hand and he placed a leather necklace into it. It bore a stone with intricate design that mirrored ancient patterns that she studied in her history classes. Attached to the stone were three small feathers, each starting as a blinding white and faded into black at the tips.
"I made it so that it'll protect you," he said.
"Thank you," she stammered. She untied the knot and placed it around her neck. "It's beautiful." She gave him a kiss on his furry cheek.
"Ewww," he said, disgusted. "That's gross!" He ran on all fours, disappearing behind the chuckling wolf-people. Hitomi laughed to herself as well. Exactly like my brother, she thought, amused.
"Look out!" she heard Van call. Escaflowne leapt into the air and Van changed it into its dragon-form. The people gasped, having never seen a Guymelef nor one that could change into something else. The Melef landed with a thud on the rocky ground. Hitomi climbed the side and he helped pull her up to the sitting area. She arranged herself in a comfortable position on the seat and wrapped her slender arms around his waist.
"Ready?" he asked, holding the flying reins tightly.
"Yes," she replied.
He pulled the reins and Escaflowne flapped its fabric wings. She waved to the people that gathered around them.
"Thank you everyone for all your help!" she cried. "I wish you all the luck! Good-bye! Thanks again!"
She could hear replies and shouts of partings as they left the village. She heard Murham and Tutu and saw them waving wildly at her. She smiled and returned it.
But now she had to focus on the task at hand. The Power of Atlantis. Gaea said that she needed the pendant back from them and Ashira had it.
She pulled the hood up of the cloak and leaned onto Van. The cool air nipped at her face as they flew higher.
"Are you alright?" he asked.
"I'm fine," she replied.
* * *
She returned to her realm where no one with a physical body had entered before. This was her special place, a place where she could feel at peace and listen to the spirits. This was her perfect world.
But it would not be her world anymore unless Hitomi could succeed and sustain the Power of Atlantis.
Gaea raised her hands to the illusionary sky and gave a praise. The sun beamed down upon her, lighting her face with its warmth. She smiled sadly.
"You called for me, Gaea?" a soft female voice spoke from behind her.
"Ah, yes, my dear," she replied as she turned around. "I have a special task for you. You are acquainted with Hitomi Kanzaki, correct?"
The woman nodded. "I met the girl briefly seven years ago."
"I am no longer allowed to interfere with her quest, for I may influence her even more. I shouldn't have told her about her destiny but she had to be pointed in the right direction." She grabbed the woman's hand with her own. "I want you to guide her. Not do everything for her, but visit her in her visions and dreams so that she has an idea what to do."
"Isn't that cheating?"
Gaea gave a ringing laugh. "Hardly! There are many things for her to do on her own. I just want you to give her a feel for what's to come."
"Like what?"
"Like she must learn what she is capable of doing now that she knows of her heritage. There is so much more for her that just fortune-telling."
"Ah."
"And, if you wish, you may visit your son again," she added. "Varie."
The Draconian woman smiled. "Folken gives me reports on Van's progress with Fanelia. He watches over the kingdom every now and then."
Gaea sat upon the velvet forest grass. "He's turning out to be a very fine King, Varie. You should be very proud of him."
"I am, but I don't think I should see him again. Although he was a key figure those years ago and I helped, I think it was too much for him. So I will remain with Hitomi." Varie bowed and left Gaea alone in her fortress out in the mystical forest clearing.
* * *
"Van, how long will it take to get to Asturia?" Hitomi asked, a hint of concern in her voice.
"We should get there very late tonight," he said, still focusing at the skies before him. "Why? Are you in a big hurry?"
"It's not that," she shook her head. "Do you know where this Mount Aslan is that we have to go to?"
Van nodded. "It's out on this island called Gahwindahn out in the ocean. I think it's an old, extinct volcano and it's all hollowed out. The natives have been living there for thousands of years. Their ancestors built the temple that we are going to."
"Thank you."
He finally turned and looked at her. "For what?" he asked.
She met his gaze. "For everything you've done for me. You took care of me when I returned, you came after me when Zaibach kidnapped me, you saved me, and you've done it all without complaint." She paused and shifted in her seat. "I know how much it hurts you to leave Fanelia unprotected in this state, but you did it anyway."
He gave her a sheepish grin. "Of course I did," he replied. "I'd do anything for my girl!"
She smiled back, then averted her gaze to the heavens. Thick, black storm clouds gathered above their heads, threatening to let loose their bellies' contents at any moment.
"Can Escaflowne fly through the rain?" she asked.
"I think so, but we don't have to worry about rain. It's not the time for it."
As his last words left his lips, a sudden downpour plummeted onto the flying mecha. Van tightened his grip on the reins and looked at Hitomi.
"You were saying?" she asked, laughing.
"Um... I have been wrong from time to time," he replied, brushing his soaked hair out of his eyes with his elbow.
Laughing harder, Hitomi stood up and removed Gaea's cloak from her shoulders. "Here," she said. "I have an idea that will keep us both dry."
She flung the cloak about her and caught the hood on Van's head, arranging it so that he was protected from the rain. She then climbed her way so she sat on the bench in front of Van, ducking under him like an umbrella.
"There," she said, sounding satisfied. She snuggled closer into him for warmth. "Is that better?"
"Much. My thanks." He pointed out to his left. "You see that crescent shaped lake down there? That's along the way from Fanelia to Asturia. It shouldn't be more than six hours from here."
"That's good to here. We know where were going." Hitomi gazed straight ahead into the darkening sky. Not because of the pouring rain, but the sun was setting.
Six more hours and then I can start worrying about my fate, she thought to herself.
* * *
Escaflowne's massive wings echoed in the deathly-still city. Few lights flickered in the windows, giving Hitomi comfort that they had finally reached their destination.
It seemed only like yesterday when she had first flown into Palas, Asturia's golden capital city. An ocean mist hung in the streets of the main place; she could smell the sweet salt ocean smell that hung in the air. The royal palace loomed in the fog, outlined only by a few torch lights and lighted areas.
She had fallen asleep for most of the remaining flight. After the rain had let up after a couple hours, she climbed down to the floor and rested her eyes. She must have dozed off, for Van had veered slightly, waking her from sleep.
"We're almost there," he said.
She emerged from her place, stretched and rubbed her eyes. "Sorry. I've been falling asleep a lot lately, haven't I?"
"It's no problem. You're still recovering from the healing and you need your strength," he replied.
They circled the Asturian castle twice before Van found a clear spot of royal ground that he could land on. He lowered them, guiding Escaflowne to beat downwards and landed softly on the ground.
"That was easy," he muttered.
"Who goes there?!" a voice shot out in the darkness. Hitomi heard the rush of the guard approach them urgently. They were soon surrounded by a dozen palace sentinels, each one pointing a blade towards them.
A tall, well-built man stepped forward, sword raised at Van. "I repeat," he growled. "Who are you? It's imprisonment for landing here!"
"That's all right, Ryden," another voice spoke up. "They're friends of the King and Queen's. I'm sure that they won't mind about this."
Hitomi's heart leapt when she recognized the voice. "Allen!" she cried.
The Heavenly knight pushed through the squad and met her and Van. "Hitomi, it's so good to see you again," he bowed, kissing her hand. He glanced at Van. "What happened? What took so long?"
Van sighed. "It's a long story," he said. "First, I want get her in warmer clothes and to bed."
"It's all right, Van," Hitomi said. "I'm not tired."
"You're exhausted! You need to get back you're strength. You're still healing."
"I'm perfectly fine!" she retorted, a bit flustered. "I'm not some baby! I'm 21 years old."
"Then you should know when your body needs to rest." Van held her so that she looked straight into his dark mahogany eyes. "Look, you know I'm telling the truth." He brushed her cheek with a quick kiss.
She sighed. "All right," she said, defeated. "But don't think that did anything for me."
Van took the hint through the gleam in her eye. His own eyes trailed after her as one of the guard escorted her to the main palace for sleeping quarters. He let out a sigh of relief.
"What was that all about?" Allen asked.
"It was… nothing. We had a hard couple of days," the young King answered quickly. "Can we find some place private? There's something I need to tell you."
Allen nodded. "We can go to my study," he gestured.
"Good, then let's…"
"My Lord!"
Van groaned as he recognized this somewhat perturbed-sounding voice. He saw his trusted Advisor pushing his way through the dispersing guard. But he was taken aback when the old man embraced him strongly.
"My Lord!" he cried. "I thought we lost you forever, boy!"
Van chuckled. "No, no, you still have me around to deal with for many more years, Palos."
"What happened to you two?" he asked, wiping the glisten from his eyes.
"We're going to Allen's study so I can tell everything," Van replied. "Come with us." He followed his friend up the steps to one of the long, decorated hallways to Allen's quarters.
"Something tells me that this is going to need a nice big bottle of vino," Palos muttered.
* * *
A hour and a couple bottles of vino later, Van managed to tell the other two his and Hitomi's adventures during the last few days. He tried not leave out anything, covering each day with the fullest detail.
"My gods," Palos murmured. "She doesn't seem like the type to be born with the blood of a Goddess. She seems so… human."
Allen didn't say anything.
"We need to keep all this a secret until this thing happens," Van said. "I don't think Hitomi wants everyone to worry about her. I think she just wants to achieve this her own way."
Palos nodded in agreement. "Of course," he said. "I'm sure Lady Millerna will aid you in any means necessary."
"Hopefully, without asking too many questions," he added. "How has everyone been?"
Palos rubbed the bridge of his crooked nose. "We managed to take as many Fanelians as we could. Lady Millerna has been a kind heart and let the people stay within the palace walls. The other noblemen arrived here with their cargo of people the day before last and we had to push to make more room. But I think we managed."
Van sighed. "That's good. Thank you." He glanced over at Allen. "You've remained silent this whole time. Is something wrong?"
He rubbed his chin. "Something troubles me about your story," he murmured. "You said Hitomi had the choice of staying here on Gaea or returning to the Mystic Moon. What choice did she make?"
"She chose to live here."
Allen nodded absentmindedly. "Did you have any influence on this?"
Van stared hard at him.
"You asked her to marry you and she said yes, didn't she?" he asked softly.
Van nodded hesitantly. "Is something wrong with that, Allen?" he questioned, a little annoyed by being grilled like this.
"Aren't we moving a little *too* fast, Van? I mean, she only got here a couple days ago and you've already proposed."
Van could feel his rage building deep inside. He forced himself to fight it down. "What was I supposed to do?! I hear this person telling me that I could lose the love of my life forever! I couldn't do that, not again." He kicked back his chair and left the room storming, cooling his temper as he did.
* * *
He couldn't sleep. Not after his meeting with Palos and Allen. Besides, his anger was still boiling inside of him towards Allen.
He still has feelings for Hitomi, he thought. After all those years ago when he proposed to her and she denied him, he still loved her. And now he doesn't want us to get married. What a jealous bastard.
Or am I the one who is jealous?
No, Allen is not to blame for anything. He is only looking out for my well-being. Like a true friend would. Maybe its because I'm… scared.
He slowed his pace to a walk and passed by a bedroom door opened a crack. He slowly pushed the wooden door, trying to avoid unpleasant creaking. As soon as the gap was wide enough, he poked his head in.
He could see the outline of her slender feminine body through the quilt. She had been bathed and given new clothes to wear. Her Mystic Moon clothes she had worn when she was shot adorned the edge of the bed. Obviously, she had been too tired and hadn't bothered to fold them like she often did.
Gods, she looks so peaceful, he thought as he stepped into the darkened room. He hadn't the heart to get any closer, for fear that he might wake her.
I was such an idiot back then. Back when we spent every day together. If I wasn't so focused on everything else, then…
Am I too lucky to deserve someone as incredible as her?
Those words entered his mind out of thin air. But he continued to listen to the voice inside his head.
She is the great-granddaughter of the Goddess of Gaea, blood more royal than any king or queen. She is so kind and loving, how could she love a killer like me? She deserves far better than me.
Hitomi let out a whimper in her sleep that made his heart leap into his throat. But she subsided and shifted in the bed.
Are you having another vision, my beloved? he asked in his mind. Please, tell me.
"My Lord? May I have a word with you?" a voice whispered into the room.
Van turned to see Palos leaning in the doorway, beckoning him to come out in the hallway, Away from the sleeping girl. Away from his love.
He walked lightly and shut the door with a faint click.
"Yes, Palos?" he said, a hint of his tiredness in his voice.
"Can we go on a walk out into the garden? It's too stuffy in here for my old body to handle," the elder Advisor patted his chest.
"Uh, sure."
They passed other sleeping chambers with ease and approached the gardens. The fog had let up, not as dense as it was when they arrived a couple hours ago. The sun should be up soon, Van thought grimly. Another day closer to when Hitomi has to face her destiny.
"You left in such a hurry that I did not get a chance to say what I wanted to, My Lord," Palos said with a chuckle. "Allen had already gotten his chance.
"As you know, if you are interested in a woman to become the Queen of Fanelia, you cannot marry unless you have the consent of one person."
"And who might that be?" Van, not seeing where he was going with his story.
"Me," Palos pointed at himself. "When your father came before his Council all those years ago, he asked their permission to grant his marriage to Lady Varie. The Elders of the Council were outraged. They said it was unethical to marry a Draconian woman because that would mean the heritage blood line would be tainted with a curse and…"
"Yes, yes, I know this story," Van interrupted. "Father was so irritated with his Council that he fired them all and then appointed you to be his only Chief Advisor. That's why Fanelia doesn't have a Council anymore."
"Ah, but you only know partial of the story, My King," Palos said. "It's true; your father did dispose of his Council. But not everyone. You see, I was the only one on the Council that felt he was right."
"But I'm not my father," Van pointed out. "I wouldn't get rid of anyone just because they didn't see eye to eye on my views."
"You're right. In some ways, you're not your father. I've watched you grow up from when you were in swaddling clothes." He held Van out before him. "And now you are a man, and King as well. I see how you look at that girl, Van. It was the same way Goau was around Varie. I trusted his judgment with his Queen… as I trust yours." He smiled at him.
Van's eyes grew wide. "You mean… you consent to our marriage?" he stammered.
"I can sense leadership in that girl," Palos said. "I think she will make a fine Queen of Fanelia."
Van turned his head to gaze at the window where Hitomi slept. "Me, too," he agreed.
to be continued…
* * *
hello! me again. this chapter title comes from a lyric from the song "shooting stars" by a lovely band named ozma, who open for weezer. my friend j lee introduced them to me and I love their songs. they're so much fun to listen to. I hope to get the next chapter up within the next couple of weeks. bye for now!
Time. 10.42 pm
Music. Guns & Roses "Sweet Child o' Mine"
Chapter 13
Copyright. I don't own any of the characters of the Vision of Escaflowne or the show. Please don't sue me!
Author's Notes. Hello people! Ok, so I lied again. I'm sorry. I really thought I never was going to finish this chapter. But I was bored so I sat down and wrote this chapter STRAIGHT! It took hours, but I got to download music and play on my new laptop at the same time. Wheee! So this will definitely be the last installment until I get settled down at my school next week. I have a plan for my upcoming chapters so hopefully I can get things rolling again. Thanks!
The Vision of Escaflowne. Rota Fortunae
Chapter 13. Second Wind
* * *
Hitomi drew her cloak closer to her face and snuggled deeper into the warm sleeping skins. It was evident that the first snow fall would hit this climate sooner than others and seemed more chillier than Fanelia had been. I guess our worlds rotate on a similar axis or something, she thought. That's why everything nothing really changes. There's not a large difference in location.
But I can't say 'our worlds' anymore, can I? I've chosen. I chose to live here on Gaea with Van because he asked me. I'm giving up my existence on Earth for him. I don't think he truly realizes my sacrifice. I just want to see Mom one more time to tell her…
She sighed and felt something tighten around her waist. Out of the corner of her eye, she could see Van sleeping soundly behind her, his arms encircling her in protection.
They remained on the rock for hours, not saying much, just enjoying each other's presence. He could tell that she was still exhausted and told her that they should return to the camp. Her body needed to regain its energy for the task ahead of her. The celebration was going strong when they walked into the village, even though the sun would dawn in a few hours. Tutu said that they could go to her hut and that she would not bother them that night.
Hitomi collapsed onto the skins, not bothering to remove her shoes. Van knelt beside her and carefully slipped off one shoe, then the next one, and tossed them aside. He crept on hands and knees to where she lay and lowered himself next to her, never letting his eyes leave her face.
She smiled at him and played with his hair, tucking a loose strand behind his ear. He leaned in and kissed her passionately. She did nothing but ease into it, falling deeply into the abyss. They parted lips, she remaining in his arms and drifting off to sleep. But she knew without looking that he watched over her as she slept.
I know I made the right decision, she thought, smiling at his pacifying look on his face. He's my angel.
She closed her eyes again, wishing she could have just a few more hours like this.
* * *
Escaflowne knelt on one knee in the village's clearing. The sun had lightened the sky an hour before and Van woke up, leaving Hitomi to sleep a little longer while he fetched the Guymelef.
The inhabitants were either busy with the harvest out in the fields, or slept in late, too tired from the previous night's festival. Tutu managed to take a break from her work and watched them prepare Escaflowne for departure.
"Asturia is in that direction, young one," she said, pointing to the west. "It usually takes a few days walk to get there."
Van nodded and looked at Hitomi, who had arrived behind him. "Are you ready?"
"Yes," she said softly. She watched Van as he placed his hand in front of Escaflowne's breast jewel and opened its cockpit.
"Hitomi!"
She turned around to see Murham sprinting and pushing his way through the gathering crowd. She bent down to give the wolf-boy a farewell hug.
"You're leaving already?" he asked sadly as they broke the embrace.
She nodded. "I have to do something really important," she said. "But I promise I'll come back and see you once I'm done."
"Here," he thrust out his hand, bearing something inside. "I want you to have this."
She held out her own hand and he placed a leather necklace into it. It bore a stone with intricate design that mirrored ancient patterns that she studied in her history classes. Attached to the stone were three small feathers, each starting as a blinding white and faded into black at the tips.
"I made it so that it'll protect you," he said.
"Thank you," she stammered. She untied the knot and placed it around her neck. "It's beautiful." She gave him a kiss on his furry cheek.
"Ewww," he said, disgusted. "That's gross!" He ran on all fours, disappearing behind the chuckling wolf-people. Hitomi laughed to herself as well. Exactly like my brother, she thought, amused.
"Look out!" she heard Van call. Escaflowne leapt into the air and Van changed it into its dragon-form. The people gasped, having never seen a Guymelef nor one that could change into something else. The Melef landed with a thud on the rocky ground. Hitomi climbed the side and he helped pull her up to the sitting area. She arranged herself in a comfortable position on the seat and wrapped her slender arms around his waist.
"Ready?" he asked, holding the flying reins tightly.
"Yes," she replied.
He pulled the reins and Escaflowne flapped its fabric wings. She waved to the people that gathered around them.
"Thank you everyone for all your help!" she cried. "I wish you all the luck! Good-bye! Thanks again!"
She could hear replies and shouts of partings as they left the village. She heard Murham and Tutu and saw them waving wildly at her. She smiled and returned it.
But now she had to focus on the task at hand. The Power of Atlantis. Gaea said that she needed the pendant back from them and Ashira had it.
She pulled the hood up of the cloak and leaned onto Van. The cool air nipped at her face as they flew higher.
"Are you alright?" he asked.
"I'm fine," she replied.
* * *
She returned to her realm where no one with a physical body had entered before. This was her special place, a place where she could feel at peace and listen to the spirits. This was her perfect world.
But it would not be her world anymore unless Hitomi could succeed and sustain the Power of Atlantis.
Gaea raised her hands to the illusionary sky and gave a praise. The sun beamed down upon her, lighting her face with its warmth. She smiled sadly.
"You called for me, Gaea?" a soft female voice spoke from behind her.
"Ah, yes, my dear," she replied as she turned around. "I have a special task for you. You are acquainted with Hitomi Kanzaki, correct?"
The woman nodded. "I met the girl briefly seven years ago."
"I am no longer allowed to interfere with her quest, for I may influence her even more. I shouldn't have told her about her destiny but she had to be pointed in the right direction." She grabbed the woman's hand with her own. "I want you to guide her. Not do everything for her, but visit her in her visions and dreams so that she has an idea what to do."
"Isn't that cheating?"
Gaea gave a ringing laugh. "Hardly! There are many things for her to do on her own. I just want you to give her a feel for what's to come."
"Like what?"
"Like she must learn what she is capable of doing now that she knows of her heritage. There is so much more for her that just fortune-telling."
"Ah."
"And, if you wish, you may visit your son again," she added. "Varie."
The Draconian woman smiled. "Folken gives me reports on Van's progress with Fanelia. He watches over the kingdom every now and then."
Gaea sat upon the velvet forest grass. "He's turning out to be a very fine King, Varie. You should be very proud of him."
"I am, but I don't think I should see him again. Although he was a key figure those years ago and I helped, I think it was too much for him. So I will remain with Hitomi." Varie bowed and left Gaea alone in her fortress out in the mystical forest clearing.
* * *
"Van, how long will it take to get to Asturia?" Hitomi asked, a hint of concern in her voice.
"We should get there very late tonight," he said, still focusing at the skies before him. "Why? Are you in a big hurry?"
"It's not that," she shook her head. "Do you know where this Mount Aslan is that we have to go to?"
Van nodded. "It's out on this island called Gahwindahn out in the ocean. I think it's an old, extinct volcano and it's all hollowed out. The natives have been living there for thousands of years. Their ancestors built the temple that we are going to."
"Thank you."
He finally turned and looked at her. "For what?" he asked.
She met his gaze. "For everything you've done for me. You took care of me when I returned, you came after me when Zaibach kidnapped me, you saved me, and you've done it all without complaint." She paused and shifted in her seat. "I know how much it hurts you to leave Fanelia unprotected in this state, but you did it anyway."
He gave her a sheepish grin. "Of course I did," he replied. "I'd do anything for my girl!"
She smiled back, then averted her gaze to the heavens. Thick, black storm clouds gathered above their heads, threatening to let loose their bellies' contents at any moment.
"Can Escaflowne fly through the rain?" she asked.
"I think so, but we don't have to worry about rain. It's not the time for it."
As his last words left his lips, a sudden downpour plummeted onto the flying mecha. Van tightened his grip on the reins and looked at Hitomi.
"You were saying?" she asked, laughing.
"Um... I have been wrong from time to time," he replied, brushing his soaked hair out of his eyes with his elbow.
Laughing harder, Hitomi stood up and removed Gaea's cloak from her shoulders. "Here," she said. "I have an idea that will keep us both dry."
She flung the cloak about her and caught the hood on Van's head, arranging it so that he was protected from the rain. She then climbed her way so she sat on the bench in front of Van, ducking under him like an umbrella.
"There," she said, sounding satisfied. She snuggled closer into him for warmth. "Is that better?"
"Much. My thanks." He pointed out to his left. "You see that crescent shaped lake down there? That's along the way from Fanelia to Asturia. It shouldn't be more than six hours from here."
"That's good to here. We know where were going." Hitomi gazed straight ahead into the darkening sky. Not because of the pouring rain, but the sun was setting.
Six more hours and then I can start worrying about my fate, she thought to herself.
* * *
Escaflowne's massive wings echoed in the deathly-still city. Few lights flickered in the windows, giving Hitomi comfort that they had finally reached their destination.
It seemed only like yesterday when she had first flown into Palas, Asturia's golden capital city. An ocean mist hung in the streets of the main place; she could smell the sweet salt ocean smell that hung in the air. The royal palace loomed in the fog, outlined only by a few torch lights and lighted areas.
She had fallen asleep for most of the remaining flight. After the rain had let up after a couple hours, she climbed down to the floor and rested her eyes. She must have dozed off, for Van had veered slightly, waking her from sleep.
"We're almost there," he said.
She emerged from her place, stretched and rubbed her eyes. "Sorry. I've been falling asleep a lot lately, haven't I?"
"It's no problem. You're still recovering from the healing and you need your strength," he replied.
They circled the Asturian castle twice before Van found a clear spot of royal ground that he could land on. He lowered them, guiding Escaflowne to beat downwards and landed softly on the ground.
"That was easy," he muttered.
"Who goes there?!" a voice shot out in the darkness. Hitomi heard the rush of the guard approach them urgently. They were soon surrounded by a dozen palace sentinels, each one pointing a blade towards them.
A tall, well-built man stepped forward, sword raised at Van. "I repeat," he growled. "Who are you? It's imprisonment for landing here!"
"That's all right, Ryden," another voice spoke up. "They're friends of the King and Queen's. I'm sure that they won't mind about this."
Hitomi's heart leapt when she recognized the voice. "Allen!" she cried.
The Heavenly knight pushed through the squad and met her and Van. "Hitomi, it's so good to see you again," he bowed, kissing her hand. He glanced at Van. "What happened? What took so long?"
Van sighed. "It's a long story," he said. "First, I want get her in warmer clothes and to bed."
"It's all right, Van," Hitomi said. "I'm not tired."
"You're exhausted! You need to get back you're strength. You're still healing."
"I'm perfectly fine!" she retorted, a bit flustered. "I'm not some baby! I'm 21 years old."
"Then you should know when your body needs to rest." Van held her so that she looked straight into his dark mahogany eyes. "Look, you know I'm telling the truth." He brushed her cheek with a quick kiss.
She sighed. "All right," she said, defeated. "But don't think that did anything for me."
Van took the hint through the gleam in her eye. His own eyes trailed after her as one of the guard escorted her to the main palace for sleeping quarters. He let out a sigh of relief.
"What was that all about?" Allen asked.
"It was… nothing. We had a hard couple of days," the young King answered quickly. "Can we find some place private? There's something I need to tell you."
Allen nodded. "We can go to my study," he gestured.
"Good, then let's…"
"My Lord!"
Van groaned as he recognized this somewhat perturbed-sounding voice. He saw his trusted Advisor pushing his way through the dispersing guard. But he was taken aback when the old man embraced him strongly.
"My Lord!" he cried. "I thought we lost you forever, boy!"
Van chuckled. "No, no, you still have me around to deal with for many more years, Palos."
"What happened to you two?" he asked, wiping the glisten from his eyes.
"We're going to Allen's study so I can tell everything," Van replied. "Come with us." He followed his friend up the steps to one of the long, decorated hallways to Allen's quarters.
"Something tells me that this is going to need a nice big bottle of vino," Palos muttered.
* * *
A hour and a couple bottles of vino later, Van managed to tell the other two his and Hitomi's adventures during the last few days. He tried not leave out anything, covering each day with the fullest detail.
"My gods," Palos murmured. "She doesn't seem like the type to be born with the blood of a Goddess. She seems so… human."
Allen didn't say anything.
"We need to keep all this a secret until this thing happens," Van said. "I don't think Hitomi wants everyone to worry about her. I think she just wants to achieve this her own way."
Palos nodded in agreement. "Of course," he said. "I'm sure Lady Millerna will aid you in any means necessary."
"Hopefully, without asking too many questions," he added. "How has everyone been?"
Palos rubbed the bridge of his crooked nose. "We managed to take as many Fanelians as we could. Lady Millerna has been a kind heart and let the people stay within the palace walls. The other noblemen arrived here with their cargo of people the day before last and we had to push to make more room. But I think we managed."
Van sighed. "That's good. Thank you." He glanced over at Allen. "You've remained silent this whole time. Is something wrong?"
He rubbed his chin. "Something troubles me about your story," he murmured. "You said Hitomi had the choice of staying here on Gaea or returning to the Mystic Moon. What choice did she make?"
"She chose to live here."
Allen nodded absentmindedly. "Did you have any influence on this?"
Van stared hard at him.
"You asked her to marry you and she said yes, didn't she?" he asked softly.
Van nodded hesitantly. "Is something wrong with that, Allen?" he questioned, a little annoyed by being grilled like this.
"Aren't we moving a little *too* fast, Van? I mean, she only got here a couple days ago and you've already proposed."
Van could feel his rage building deep inside. He forced himself to fight it down. "What was I supposed to do?! I hear this person telling me that I could lose the love of my life forever! I couldn't do that, not again." He kicked back his chair and left the room storming, cooling his temper as he did.
* * *
He couldn't sleep. Not after his meeting with Palos and Allen. Besides, his anger was still boiling inside of him towards Allen.
He still has feelings for Hitomi, he thought. After all those years ago when he proposed to her and she denied him, he still loved her. And now he doesn't want us to get married. What a jealous bastard.
Or am I the one who is jealous?
No, Allen is not to blame for anything. He is only looking out for my well-being. Like a true friend would. Maybe its because I'm… scared.
He slowed his pace to a walk and passed by a bedroom door opened a crack. He slowly pushed the wooden door, trying to avoid unpleasant creaking. As soon as the gap was wide enough, he poked his head in.
He could see the outline of her slender feminine body through the quilt. She had been bathed and given new clothes to wear. Her Mystic Moon clothes she had worn when she was shot adorned the edge of the bed. Obviously, she had been too tired and hadn't bothered to fold them like she often did.
Gods, she looks so peaceful, he thought as he stepped into the darkened room. He hadn't the heart to get any closer, for fear that he might wake her.
I was such an idiot back then. Back when we spent every day together. If I wasn't so focused on everything else, then…
Am I too lucky to deserve someone as incredible as her?
Those words entered his mind out of thin air. But he continued to listen to the voice inside his head.
She is the great-granddaughter of the Goddess of Gaea, blood more royal than any king or queen. She is so kind and loving, how could she love a killer like me? She deserves far better than me.
Hitomi let out a whimper in her sleep that made his heart leap into his throat. But she subsided and shifted in the bed.
Are you having another vision, my beloved? he asked in his mind. Please, tell me.
"My Lord? May I have a word with you?" a voice whispered into the room.
Van turned to see Palos leaning in the doorway, beckoning him to come out in the hallway, Away from the sleeping girl. Away from his love.
He walked lightly and shut the door with a faint click.
"Yes, Palos?" he said, a hint of his tiredness in his voice.
"Can we go on a walk out into the garden? It's too stuffy in here for my old body to handle," the elder Advisor patted his chest.
"Uh, sure."
They passed other sleeping chambers with ease and approached the gardens. The fog had let up, not as dense as it was when they arrived a couple hours ago. The sun should be up soon, Van thought grimly. Another day closer to when Hitomi has to face her destiny.
"You left in such a hurry that I did not get a chance to say what I wanted to, My Lord," Palos said with a chuckle. "Allen had already gotten his chance.
"As you know, if you are interested in a woman to become the Queen of Fanelia, you cannot marry unless you have the consent of one person."
"And who might that be?" Van, not seeing where he was going with his story.
"Me," Palos pointed at himself. "When your father came before his Council all those years ago, he asked their permission to grant his marriage to Lady Varie. The Elders of the Council were outraged. They said it was unethical to marry a Draconian woman because that would mean the heritage blood line would be tainted with a curse and…"
"Yes, yes, I know this story," Van interrupted. "Father was so irritated with his Council that he fired them all and then appointed you to be his only Chief Advisor. That's why Fanelia doesn't have a Council anymore."
"Ah, but you only know partial of the story, My King," Palos said. "It's true; your father did dispose of his Council. But not everyone. You see, I was the only one on the Council that felt he was right."
"But I'm not my father," Van pointed out. "I wouldn't get rid of anyone just because they didn't see eye to eye on my views."
"You're right. In some ways, you're not your father. I've watched you grow up from when you were in swaddling clothes." He held Van out before him. "And now you are a man, and King as well. I see how you look at that girl, Van. It was the same way Goau was around Varie. I trusted his judgment with his Queen… as I trust yours." He smiled at him.
Van's eyes grew wide. "You mean… you consent to our marriage?" he stammered.
"I can sense leadership in that girl," Palos said. "I think she will make a fine Queen of Fanelia."
Van turned his head to gaze at the window where Hitomi slept. "Me, too," he agreed.
to be continued…
* * *
hello! me again. this chapter title comes from a lyric from the song "shooting stars" by a lovely band named ozma, who open for weezer. my friend j lee introduced them to me and I love their songs. they're so much fun to listen to. I hope to get the next chapter up within the next couple of weeks. bye for now!