Disclaimer: Obviously I don't own anything in Vision of Escaflowne, or it wouldn't be a fanfiction. Don't sue me :D

synopsis: Evan was going to be good from now on... he promised.

Authors note: Song ~ If You

***

Evan closed the door to his room and leaned against it. He sighed and let himself shake. He really was wondering if Van was going to kill him right then and there.

Smiling, Van put down the sword on the table. Evan looked uneasily at him, but reluctantly grinned.

Van... I'll do anything you ask. I'll do.. anything. Please trust me again. I wouldn't do anything to hurt her.. or you. Evan looked up at Van, and slide off the edge of the seat onto his knees. Close his eyes he held his head high and put his arms out.

If I break your trust again, strike me down. You are the greatest friend I have ever had and I do not wish to hurt you or cause you pain...especially with your bride. Trust me on that Van.. if you don't, take my life right now!

Evan heard Van move towards him and the sword, and heard him pick it up. The unsheathing felt like it took eons and Evan cringed, ready for the deadly blow.

But it never came.

Cautiously opening his eyes, he watched as Van stared intently at the shining blade. He looked up at Evan and cocked his head slightly to the side.

I won't kill you Evan. That would be stupid. I didn't bring you this far to end you with a fit of rage. He paused, and resheathed the sword. Closing his eyes he set it on the cushion next to him. He stood up and leaned over the table and wrapped his arms around the surprised Evan. I lost one brother because of his mistakes, I won't lose another over something this trivial. Van said flatly, as Evan returned the hug. Now, lets talk about something more cheerful. he said with a grin as he let go of Evan and sat back down on the small couch.

Evan smiled, very relieved and sat back down on the cushions.

What kind of blade do you want? Your lessons start in a few days and we'll need to get you the kind that suits your tastes... Van started, as Evan relaxed visibly.

Evan let out a huge breath and looked out the window.

Brother, eh? I've never had a brother..

*

Hitomi giggled as Van threw her on her bed and she bounced from the thick layers of mattress. He growled at her and jumped ontop of her and kissed her.

This is more of what a I was thinking of doing to make sure this never happened again, but hell... if Evan wants to make my life easier...

Van sat up and smiled down at Hitomi, touching her cheek gently. He ran his hand down her neck and across her slender shoulders...

You know, Hitomi... I'm real sorry I didn't come back for you as soon as Fanelia was far enough along to work on its own. I really should have... but I can't change that now. Besides, I have you... He gently kissed her and moved his hand to unfasten the top of her dress.

Batting away his hand, Hitomi kissed Van back. She just wanted an innocent kiss...

**

Van intently read the next parchment on his desk.

My Lord, we ask that in the next season of warmth, we are allowed to bring in more goats to graze and bring more milk. They will be...

Van closed his eyes and sighed. He wished such boring work didn't have to be kingly duties'. He might higher some helpers. The ones that Merle fired had been no good, for obvious reasons, and he hadn't found anyone who suited his fancy. Putting the parchment away, he picked up one that seemed more interesting.

Your Highness Van Slanzar de Fanel, we ask that you allow us the ability to traverse yoru fine country we are going from..

Van checked his treaties, and doubled checked the country these men were coming from. He went to sign when a knock came on his study door.



The door opened swiftly and Evan entered. Signing the parchment, Van looked up.

Evan... what is it?

Grimacing, Evan looked at Van and strode over to his desk. Before he reached it, Van spoke.

Look I'm busy. Are you just here for games? He scowled and put his quill in the bottle of ink.

Slamming his hands on the desk, Evan glared at Van. You've been doing this an awful lot. Had you even noticed we have been here for well over two weeks? Almost three! You haven't even set a wedding date. Your Queen grows impatient. Evan said flatly, staring Van right in the face.

It must be done. Van said, resting his elbows on the papers.

At the expense of Hitomi? Evan asked smiling.

Van, angered, stood and slammed his hands on the desk.

She's FINE!

Really? I wouldn't have thought you would have noticed, being shut in here all hours. You don't even eat.

At least I am taking my responsibilities seriously. You haven't done a bit of anything except your sword lessons. You are supposed to be a courier. Van said angrily at Evan.

Oh, well maybe then I can occupy your Queen for you... Even started, and looked at his finger nails. She does enjoy a conversation with me, especially when I am shirtless and eating meals. I'm quite sure she wouldn't mind if I... Evan stopped talking as Van jumped the desk and quite forcefully slammed him into the hardwood floor, scattering papers.


***


No, Evan isn't evil. He was attempting to use psychology on Van.. but he's not good at it. Give him some credit :D

Fight fight fight !! *stops chanting and looks innocent*