Author's note: This is it people - the conclusion of my Escaflowne tale. A bunch of romantic nonsense, but hey, I had to get it all out. I started this story to tie up the loose ends in the series, only to end up with more of my own making. How frustrating.
Chapter 20: For What's to Come
Fanalia welcomed its king with all the splendor of the Dragonlands. Banners hung from every window, flowers paved the roads, the palace gleamed white on its hillside. The crest which was inlaid on the courtyard ground gleamed as if it had been polished a hundred times. The people streamed out of the houses, their upturned faces smiling and calling out greetings as the Crusade passed over them.
Allen had insisted on escorting Van and Hitomi home. They were all invited to the wedding, so why not bring them back in style? As the ship landed, a stream of people emerged from the palace, making its way down the long flight of steps to the courtyard. One familiar figure in pink and orange broke out of line and scampered towards the lowering ramp. Hitomi smiled as it approached.
Merle didn't run on all fours anymore, but that didn't stop her from holding her ankle length dress up around her knees and sprinting. With her characteristic flying leap, she lit into her surrogate brother.
Van-sama! I can't believe you're back! I've been waiting and waiting and waiting!
Van hugged her tightly. Thank you, Merle. He pulled her back a bit and nodded towards Hitomi. Merle, meet my future wife.
Merle spun. With a shriek the youthful cat woman flung her arms around the astonished other and actually gave her a lick/kiss.
I can't believe it! You're going to marry Lord Van! That's so great!
Hitomi squirmed away. Um, yeah, thanks Merle. Do you mind?
Emilee laughed behind them. I take it she does this all the time.
Merle grinned cheerfully. Yep! Now come on, the council is waiting.
The council stood in a perfect semicircle along the edge of the inlaid crest of Fanalia. The older men bowed as Van approached. He bowed in return.
My lords, I have returned. I trust the kingdom has done well in my absence.
One man, the spokesperson, answered. Yes, my king.
Van held out his hand, his signal to Hitomi. She stepped down the ramp and moved to his side.
This is my betrothed, Lady Hitomi of the Mystic Moon.
The council bowed in unison. My Lady.
Hitomi blushed, staying close to Van. The rest of the crew descended from the Crusade behind her. As they did, a growing roar made them all turn. The citizens of Fanalia had assembled behind them and were chanting.
All hail the King!
Van smiled.
A few notes on a lute hushed the crowd. Trailing gracefully from the palace, Fina, her blue dress floating around her, descended. Continuing to play, she walked towards Van and Hitomi, her eyes dreamy. The council parted without a sound to let her through. She sang.
Angel of the Moon,
Came once again,
Healed the enemy,
United with love.
Old darkness once loomed,
You have found the end.
Heard a people's plea,
Gentle one above.
One of all colors,
You found your flight,
Never to be alone,
Faith served well in others.
Fina paused, tilting her head thoughtfully. Her voice became a whisper only for them.
Angel of the Moon,
Two parts to one whole.
They did not all meet the doom,
To the sun you may go.
The people are waiting,
Bring them back, or leave them there,
The choice is in your making,
The Dragon in the air.
Her music stopped, leaving nothing but silence. She faced the people of Fanalia.
The legends say that Draconians are cursed. Let a new age for them begin, one of hope and love. Their misdeeds cannot be held against them forever, for they are the ones who gave this planet birth. Their redemption began with the Lady Varie. Let it continue with the union of King Van and Lady Hitomi.
She turned back to them and knelt. May the gods all bless, royals.
**************************************
One month later and two days before the wedding ceremony, Hitomi called Emilee. Feeling rather awkward in the long flowing dress designated for her role as a handmaid/bridal assistant, she dragged the material up the steps to the wing of the palace which had been dedicated to the women's work. If she was having trouble with a mere three foot train, it was no wonder Hitomi would need help with her ten foot length of embroidered silk. Finally Emilee gave up and bunched the whole mass over her harm, petticoats and all, showing a substantial amount of leg. Peeking around the corner, she scanned for any person who might take offense at her unladylike appearance.
I suppose I've gotten used to this. She thought wirily. Even if I have to wear dresses most of the time, I like how everything is so much simpler here than at home.
Dashing down the hall, she pushed the heavy door to Hitomi's room open. Stepping inside, she leaned against the wood to shut it, grumbling.
What I would give for shorts right now.
Um, Emilee?
She turned to see Hitomi giggling up on a stool, her dress being worked on yet again by a maid. Nearby sitting on a couch, was Allen, dutifully staring at the carpet. Emilee dropped the armload of dress to the ground.
Well can you blame me if I've been dragged through another rehearsal and you suddenly give me this urgent, unspecified summons to your private' chamber?
It was rather abrupt, but Fina came to me just a moment ago with something that I didn't think could wait.
From behind Hitomi stepped the graceful feline woman. Her blue dress had changed into a white wrap that draped from her left shoulder, around her slim body, and over her head. Bowing, Fina's hazel eyes lifted to meet Emilee's.
The red haired woman looked away, back to her friend.
Then why is Allen here too?
Hitomi shrugged uncomfortably. It seemed like the right thing to do.
Fina came forwards, drawing her attention again. I am a watcher. She said softly. I have seen what the Powers wish for me to pass on, and now I pass on this - Her paws spread and light gathered gently between them. You're purpose here is complete. The blue star and red star are suspended in the Heaven's. The time of decision is rapidly approaching. She raised her hands, dispersing the light. When the light comes, you must decide on your future. One world can hold you, but not both.
For a long moment there was nothing but silence. The maid continued sewing, dutifully fulfilling her tasks and ignoring the conversation. Allen had risen to his feet, but did not move, eyes on Emilee.
When will I have to decide? Her voice was a whisper.
Tomorrow, when the moon is directly above.
Hitomi stepped off of the stool and reached towards her. Emilee, I -
Emilee shook her head and drew away. Reaching for the door handle, she avoided any eye contact.
I need to think about this.
*********************************
The door closed behind Emilee. Hitomi turned to look at Allen.
Standing as still as a statue, the knight's hand wrapped tightly around the hilt of his sword. He could no longer hide behind a curtain of long hair, for it was now cut just below his shoulders and tied in a low tail. Everything usually hidden in his blue eyes was fully visible. For a moment she saw panic, then pain, and finally he settled on resigned depression. He was giving up.
Hitomi waved off the maid who was still trying to add rosettes to the hem of her dress. When she had withdrawn, she turned back to her friend.
Allen, aren't you going to do anything?
He straightened his shoulders. It's her choice. I will not interfere.
But if she goes back -
He interrupted harshly. I won't stop her.
Stepping behind a screen, Hitomi took of her wedding gown and wrapped a robe around her shift. When she finished, she noted that he had moved to the window, watching the world with unseeing eyes.
Why is it -
Hitomi's heart jumped at the raw pain in his voice.
Why is it that I seem to lose everyone I care about?
Moving next to him, she placed a cautious hand on his arm. Allen, you haven't lost everyone. There are many who care about you. I do, Van does, your sister has returned, and I know Emilee has feelings for you.
Allen's eyes didn't change. It's not enough to stop her.
Hitomi glared. This was enough - enough of his forced penance and self-loathing. He deserved every bit of happiness Fate gave him. He had no right to throw it back.
Then give her a reason to stay.
That caught his attention.
Give her a reason. Hitomi tugged on his arm. Have you actually said anything to her? I've seen you two, but have you actually told her what you feel?
His frustration rose. I won't make her feel guilty for me. She deserves better than that. I don't want her to stay if she really wants to go back.
That's unfair!
Yes, unfair because you don't give her the choice. How can she chose her destiny if you don't give her the option?
Allen gritted his teeth. I know what you want, Hitomi, but I cannot do that to her.
You love her, don't you?
He bowed his head. She shook him. Don't you?
Blue eyes met green. More than anything.
Then give her the chance to chose, knowing everything.
His hand covered hers as he whispered. I don't know if I can.
************************************
Emilee estimated that there was about one hour left before the moons alined themselves directly over Fanalia. Her things were all packed in the backpack she had brought with her, resting at her feet. Standing alone in the courtyard, she watched the light play on the dragon fountain nearby. An hour left and she still couldn't make up her mind. Give up the world she grew up in, made a life in, for a world of magic, kingdoms, and new friends? How could she chose?
A movement of white on a balcony made her look up. Hitomi stood there, silent. A moment later a darker figure joined her. Her friend and her future husband were giving their silent support in whichever path she chose. Emilee raised a hand, and they both responded. She would miss their wedding. She would miss the simplicity of this world, the mysteries of its magic. She would miss him...
Oh Hell... Here she was, leaving with hardly a good-bye to anyone. After everything, it would be poof' and all over. But it would never be over. She would never forget, never be like she used to be on Earth. Even when she thought she hadn't decided, her thoughts were only about what would happen when she did.
Emilee wiped her hands on her jeans. Wearing the same cloths that she had arrived in, she glanced back up at the sky. Only a half hour now. Where was... No, he wouldn't want to be here. She was almost glad -
Allen stepped out from behind the fountain. For the first time he didn't carry his sword while wearing his uniform. He wasn't wearing his gloves either. He was so handsome that her chest hurt. She looked away.
Emilee, you may be going back to your world, but I have to tell you something before you go.
She laughed, a choked sound. Some of the best and worst things begin with those kinds of words.
Hands clenched, Allen walked up to her until he stood a foot away. Drawing a shaking breath, he said,
Emilee, my life has not been what I wanted. I am only a man. You know my past, you know my faults and failures, and yet you accepted me with them. Whatever your decision may be, know that there is one man on Gaia who will always love you, though his love falls forever short of another's.
Emilee's eyes locked with his just as white light began to gather around her. The light grew, defied gravity, and began lifting her up. With a shock, she realized that she could see Earth through the tunnel of light, could practically see the high school where her real adventure began by meeting Hitomi. A desperate cry made her look down.
Allen had stepped into the strange light, reaching up towards her. His feet remained on the ground as she continued to rise. A whisper spoke in her ear.
The choice is now.
With hardly a second though, Emilee reached down, straining towards Allen's hand. In her mind she answered the voice - Fina's voice.
I choose here. I choose him.
The light vanished and she fell, landing in Allen's waiting arms. A wave of sickness made her cling to him. When she had gained control over her stomach, she looked up at her knight. He held her, clutched her against him like a lifeline, face shadowed by his bowed head. Hesitantly Emilee touched his cheek.
When he finally looked up, she stared wide-eyed. Tears trickled down his face, sparkling in the moonlight. The blue eyes shone with guilty happiness before he buried his head on her shoulder. His voice shook.
You stayed. You chose Gaia.
Emilee wrapped her arms around him. Unable to help herself, she teased, You silly man, I stayed for more than just Gaia. I stayed for you.
Allen pulled back, searching her face for any sign of doubt in her decision. He found none, and bent to kiss her passionately.
Up on the balcony, Hitomi and Van watched with smiles.
********************************
One day later, the King of Fanalia was married to the Lady of the Mystic Moon. The entire country planned on a holiday that would extend over the next seven days, reveling in the nation's new prosperity after the Dark Ages. The music continued nonstop following the ceremony, dancers filled the streets, fires lit the town at night, and good food passed freely to everyone. The beast people brought their tribes nearby to celebrate the matrimony of the king who had always treated them fairly. Even the land dragons which roared from the nearby mountains were content to remain in their territory, in respect to the kingdom of dragons.
The land would be entrusted to the council once more as Van and Hitomi sought out their honeymoon. Tonight, blessed by the priests, they would leave Fanalia. Emilee and Allen would wait until they returned before flying back to Asturia.
Hitomi watched the celebrating people from a window overlooking the town. She smiled, remembering the time when Fanalia had seemed so alien to her. Now it was home. The sound of a swishing cape made her turn to her new husband. Van smiled down at her, complete, selfless love shining in his eyes.
I have the perfect place for our first night. And only we can reach it.
He led her out onto the balcony. Removing the ceremonial cape, he took off the coat beneath it and closed his eyes. Slowly his wings unfolded, slipping though the slits in his shirt. Now Hitomi understood why he and insisted on a low-backed dress. After a moment of concentration, she released her own wings, shimmering silver in the moonlight. Van took her hand and they leapt into the air, soaring over the joyful Fanalia.
They circled once, then he led her towards the mountains behind the palace. The air chilled her bare arms, but she dutifully followed. The town faded behind them, and she had no idea where they were. Finally she caught a glimpse of light halfway up a shadowy cliff. A fire, waiting just outside some sort of tent.
Van, it's lovely!
It was a pavilioned platform overlooking the Fanalian valley. In the distance, she could just make out the lights of the town. A great stone pillar rose from the center of an ancient engraved circle and a cool breeze rustled the drapery overhead. Van moved to the small table set next to the column and lit the candles nearby. Light flickered across the stone and silhouetted engravings on the pillar. Hitomi gasped.
Winged people marched in procession, bearing gifts and offerings to an unknown god. Further on, a battle began and raged. Near the top was a single carving. Intrigued, Hitomi picked up a candle and beat her wings. Hovering, she bent to look.
A young woman, a priestess, knelt before an object obscured be deterioration. Sorrow etched her face, hands raised in a silent plea. Behind her a black dragon rose, threatening to engulf her. A small object hovered over the upraised hands. Hitomi held the candle closer.
Hitomi, what are you doing?
Van looked up at her, holding a wine glass in each hand. She gently glided back to the ground.
Looking at the pictures. What is this place? I thought the Draconians had been driven away.
He handed her a glass. They were. This is the only intact temple left. Hardly anyone knows it's here. Besides, it's virtually inaccessible except by air. He smiled and gently clinked their glasses together. The perfect place for us.
Hitomi smiled back and acknowledged the toast. She scrutinized her husband over the rim of her cup as she sipped. He was a full head taller than she, despite her late growth spurt - lean and wiry, never to have the brute muscular strength like Allen or the General Alessandro. Van's strength was of tenacity, nerve, and pure courage. She felt another smile swell within her. Despite everything, he still hadn't lost the generally stubborn look of his nose and chin. That, and his untamed hair spoke of the boy she had met those handful of years ago. Van caught her laughing at him.
He smiled back and set his glass down. She dodged his reaching hand and flew to the top of the pillar.
Did you really set this all up by yourself? She asked casually from above him.
Van, catching on to the game, smirked. What, do you think I'm not capable of work?
She saw him coming and swooped away to the edge of the circle, reveling in the freedom her wings gave her. Again she dodged as Van began stalking her.
Not that you aren't capable, just that I never knew you were a romantic.
With a beat of wings, Hitomi blew out the candles leaving them in the dark. Stifling a giggle, she dove behind the drapes on the dark side of the column. She heard Van land, followed by silence. She waited.
Finally, curious to know what happened to him, she peered around the stone. A hand shot out of the darkness ahd seized her wrist, spinning her around into the waiting arms of her husband. He tickled her nose with a feather.
You're wings glow, even under starlight.
She pouted playfully. No fair then.
He gently traced her face with his fingers, suddenly serious. I can only be a romantic with you, Hitomi.
Willingly she lifted her head and found his mouth. When he drew back, she found herself sitting on a low bed that had been hidden in the shadows, curled comfortably in Van's arms. Except for one thing. Shyly she glanced up at him.
Van, you wouldn't have happened to have something to change into, would you? This dress isn't exactly suited... She blushed.
Van reached down at the foot of the bed and brought out a mass of cloth - a sort of kimono.
You can thank Emilee-san for that.
Hitomi went behind one of the drapes to change. It took her a moment to get the nerve to step out again, feeling extremely vulnerable in the slightly oversized robe. The stone was cold on her bare feet and the wind played with her knee length hem.
He turned, wearing the same attire. He was looking up at the Mystic Moon.
I used to watch up there. He said softly. I used to wonder what you were doing, what life was like. I wondered if - He swallowed. If you had forgotten.
Hitomi put her hand in his, linking their fingers. I hadn't forgotten. I could never forget.
For a long moment they stood in silence, looking at each other. Another breeze made her shiver. Van noticed immediately. He turned and pulled her to the bed. Stripping back the covers, he disregarded her self conscious blush and climbed in. Pulling the blanket back up, he rolled over, and by all appearances, went to sleep. Speechless, Hitomi stood staring at his motionless form. She had expected... well... She had expected something other than that.
Slightly disappointed and now quite cold, she followed his example. Just has she had settled herself for sleep, she heard Van shift beside her. An arm encircled her from behind and pulled her snugly against him. Startled, she squeaked,
His breath tickled her ear. It's our wedding night, my Mystic Angel. You aren't getting away that easily.
After that, she was not the slightest disappointed.
********************************
Back at the palace in the garden, a figure shrouded in white stood gazing directly up at the sky. Hazel eyes fixed on two stars, watching them begin to move once more. When they met, melting into one another, the figure smiled. Fina gathered her small bundle of possessions. Her time here was complete. The Powers did not need her any more. Merle would be disappointed at her departure, but that was how Gaia turned.
Reach across the distance to me
Dance beneath that silver shadow
Love, to laugh, to life, the key
Find the dreams to which we follow
I don't have the strength alone
Moonlight falls without a sound
Like tears of Heaven falling down
Light the world with shadows bound
The stars are drowned in Heaven
Magic of the moon is woven
A sleeping world lies unaware
Dark eyes to that alone are open
One loneliness to bear
Tears of Heaven, stop your crying
This is the Fate that man is buying
Tears of moonlight, silver starlight
Silence speaking, a heart is beating
Longing for what isn't there
THE END
Tears of Heaven - by Kenta Divina
Author's Final Note!
Ron and his Sakura suggested a side story about Emilee and Alessandro. I'm wondering how many people would be interested in one. Also, I'm wondering IF I ever find the time, if people would like me to make a sequel about Van and Hitomi searching for more Draconians. There must be others out there, I mean, where did Van's mother come from - thin air? Or someone else can write me and ask to continue my tale.
There is a little excerpt of Allen and Emilee that I wrote but cut out. However, it's a good little story on its own. I'm asking favors, but if you liked them, care to look at that too?
Thank you, thank you, thank you, all my loyal readers. You kept me going even when I thought some had forgotten me. I'm so glad to have finally completed something and people enjoyed it. Ja ne for now!