Disclaimer: I don't own Escaflowne.
The Scepter of the Dragons Chapter 22: Good-byes By Coolchick1500
The sun was setting by the time dinner was finished. It had been a long day. Some of which Hitomi wished she could forget. As she was walking back to Van's room, her mind never left the subject of who Balcifer really was. She couldn't figure it out. It not like she could go right up to him and ask him who he really was. Maybe if I have a death wish Hitomi thought. She opened the door, entered the room, and closed it. No one had any idea of where to go from there. The keys were left in their owners' possession, until they needed them. "How do I leave my friends out of this" She asked herself.
Though not expecting an answer she got one. "You can't" The voice though warm, concerned Hitomi.
"Varie, I know that this my very well be my friends destinies; however, this is too dangerous" Hitomi said.
"I know that this concerns you, but this is how it has to be. Nothing can change that fact," Varie said.
"They may be annoying sometimes, but they're still my friends. I can't ask them to put their lives in danger" Hitomi said.
"Then you will not win this war. Balcifer will win and you as well as your child will die at his hand" The older woman said.
"Speaking of which. I had a vision or dream, whatever you wish to call them a couple of days ago. I found out that Jared is being controlled by a spell and that Balcifer isn't really Balcifer. Who is he really?" Hitomi asked.
"I can't tell you" Varie said.
"Can't or won't. This is important," Hitomi said.
"It isn't that simple. Balcifer's power is almost impossible to stop. Just like it was before." Varie stopped herself from going further.
"Before when?" Hitomi said.
"I've said too much. I must go" Varie said. With that she disappeared. "Great more mystery to this guy. Varie knows who he is. Folken would know as well. But this doesn't help anyone here who needs the answer" Hitomi cursed under her breath.
She changed into jeans and a T-shirt and went out into the royal gardens. The large oak that was in the middle of the garden extended into the night sky. She climbed the grand tree to the very top branch. She sat down and stared up to the Lunar and Mystic Moons. She sighed deeply and turned her head. She had heard something just a second ago and now movements around the gardens, made her more suspicious. Hitomi climbed down the tree and went back up to the balcony. "Hello? Anyone here?" Hitomi asked.
"Hi Hitomi" Merle jumped out of the bushes.
Hitomi shouted and protested at Merle for scaring her like that. "Geez, I didn't mean to scare you. I just wanted to talk to you. When I didn't get answer on the other side of the door, I thought you were out in the gardens" Merle said.
"And I was. I needed some space to think. The last thing I need tonight is to have a heart attack because one of my best friends wanted to talk to me" Hitomi explained.
"Why what's wrong?" Merle asked.
"Nothing of importance. Just for information that no one will give me" Hitomi last sentence was louder than the rest.
"Who won't give you what?" Merle inquired.
Hitomi sighed. What did she expect? Merle was part cat. And cats are curious. "Varie knows who Balcifer really is and she won't tell me" Hitomi said.
"Varie, Lord Van mother?" Merle asked.
"Yes, she been in the middle of this whole thing since the beginning. Balcifer isn't who we think he is. He's someone else. I just don't know whom. Varie knows and refuses to tell me" Hitomi complained.
"Why the sudden interest in Balcifer?" Merle asked.
"I had a dream a few days ago. In my dream I saw a peaceful future. My daughter as well as your daughter. Jared is being controlled by a spell, no doubt being controlled by Kelar and his friends. If I had slept another thirty seconds I would have found out who he really is," Hitomi said. "Well, you know as well as I do that you'll find out someday" Merle said.
"I agree, but when. We can't wait forever, especially since he's after me" Hitomi said.
"You'll find out when you need to know" Merle said.
"Yeah I know. What was it that you needed to talk to me about?" Hitomi asked.
"Have you told Lord Van about you being pregnant?" Merle asked.
"Yeah" Hitomi replied.
"I'm surprised he doesn't have guards posted at both of your sides" Merle said.
Hitomi smirked. "As do I"
"When are you leaving for Freid?"
"As soon as possible. We have everything we need. We just need to get there before Balcifer"
"Can I come?"
"I don't know. I haven't worked on the plans at all. It'll be a small group. Van and I as well as Adam and the others. I don't know if you'll be coming or not" Hitomi's honesty made Merle pout.
"Why can't you just leave Adam and the others here? And I'll take their place" Merle said.
"The others need to go because they're the protectors of the keys that we need. And I think you'll stay here and back up Larson. When Van and I leave, Van's going to put Larson in charge. You know how those Council Men are"
"I do, but Larson is more than capable of handling them himself. He doesn't need me"
"Is this your way of saying you wanna come with us?" Van said.
Both women turned to see the young king in front of the closed door. "Oh please Lord Van?" Merle threw herself in Van's arms.
"Maybe" Van said. "See, he'll let me come" Merle stuck her tongue out at her close friend.
"Van said maybe," Hitomi said.
She leaned against the bedpost. "Geez, you're marrying Lord Van soon and you know nothing about him. Whenever he says maybe, it's yes" Merle frolicked out of the room.
"You were planning on letting her come, weren't you?" Van asked.
"You think I'd actually leave her alone with Larson and Aklen. By the time we got back, Merle would have shredded Aklen into a million or so pieces" Hitomi said.
Van's grin bought a smile to Hitomi's lips. "Well, if we did that, we wouldn't have to worry about Aklen when we returned" Van said innocently.
He stepped closer to Hitomi. "True, but then Merle would get in trouble," Hitomi said.
Van put his arms around Hitomi waist. "By whom? I wouldn't punish her and neither would you" Van said.
Hitomi ran her arms along Van's long arms. "Sounds like a plan"
"You know we can't do that," Van said.
"I know. It's a nice idea though"
"Yeah, it is" Van leaned his head down and stole a kiss from his fiancée. "I have some work to finish up. Give me about another hour or so and I'll be with you"
"Okay. Hurry back though"
"If you need anything, I'll be in my study" Van stole another kiss.
He was gone before Hitomi could say anything. She went over to the dresser and pulled out a nightgown. She went into the bathroom and jumped into the bathtub after she took her jeans and shirt off. She leaned against the wall and closed her eyes. She got out and put her nightgown on. It was a lavender shade and the stapes were paper-thin. It was a little long, but it didn't bother Hitomi. She curled up on the bed and got comfortable. Minutes later, the door to Van's study opened and lightly closed. "You asleep?" Van asked.
Hitomi turned her head. "Not yet. I'm getting there" "Sorry, I didn't mean to disturb you" Van said.
"No, it's okay. I was waiting for you anyway"
"Oh really. From my point of view, it looked like you were sleeping"
"Ha ha; very funny"
Van pulled his shirt off and threw it down by the end of the bed. He climbed into the bed and pulled Hitomi closer to him. She buried her head in Van's neck. "Get to sleep, love. We have a big day tomorrow"
"Why, what happens tomorrow?"
"Quite a few things. We have to make plans to go to Freid. You have to talk to your friends about getting to Freid. We have to send your family and friends back to the Mystic Moon"
"Oh yeah" Hitomi sounded dejected.
"What's wrong?"
"I guess it's just the fact that I have to send my family back home. I have everything here. I not only have my friends and family, but I have you. All in the same place. I know it's not fair to ask them to stay in a world that they don't know or understand, but still"
"Some people think you don't belong here" Van pointed out.
"I know. It's just going to be hard to see my family leave"
"I know it is. Just sleep" Van's arms came around Hitomi's stomach and rested there.
The next day, Hitomi woke up with the sunrise. There was much to do today and she needed to get a head start. "You do realize that it's much too early to be up" Van voice came from the bed.
"Like you said last night, there's much to be done today. The sooner we get started, the sooner we can finish"
"No one is up at this early an hour," Van said.
"I am" She changed into her shorts and tank. She went down to the kitchen and stole some toast. She met Adam in a hallway. "Hey, what are you doing up so early?" He asked.
"I need to get some stuff done today. Aren't you supposed to be resting?"
"Marina actually let me out of bed today" Adam said.
"I need to talk to you and the others today"
"About what?"
"You'll find out when I talk to you"
"Does it have to do with the keys?"
"Yes, it does"
"Come on. The others are up. Follow me"
We walked out to the courtyard. Hitomi explained to them what was going on and why they needed to come to Fried. Micah and Tess were the only ones not taking it seriously. They were laughing and giggling. "I'm so glad that you find this so funny" Van's voice was a little loud and irritated.
The smiles on Micah and Tess's faces were wiped off. "If you need our help, we'll be there" Tom said.
"All of us" Kevin added.
Micah scoffed and Tess looked shocked. "Thank you" Hitomi said.
"When do we leave?" Adam asked.
"Within the next couple of days" Van said.
"As early as tomorrow and late as the day after" Hitomi said.
"You can't make plans for this thing in a twenty-four hour period" Kevin said.
"I won't take much. You five, Van, Merle, Tyler and myself. Some supplies to hold us over until we get there. Which won't be but a few days" Hitomi said.
"So what, pack up a few things?" Tess asked. "Very few things. We don't want to be bogged down by the stuff we carry" Van said.
"Okay. We'll be ready when you guys are ready to leave" Kevin said.
"Thank you" Hitomi got up and walked back into the castle.
She met up with her brother in the dining hall. "Where's mom and dad?" Hitomi asked.
"I think they're still sleeping" Michael said.
"What are you doing up so early?" Van asked.
"I was looking for Crissy. Do you know where she is?" Michael asked.
"I'm right here, silly" Crissy stood with her back to the door.
Michael and Crissy left the room to go and play. "It's unfair. Michael has to leave someone that he likes behind" Hitomi said.
"You did the same thing" Van pointed out.
"I left because I had to. Michael has to leave because I'm making him. It's not the same thing," Hitomi said.
"If they're meant to be, then he'll find a way back to her" Van said.
"I know that to be true. But he isn't me. He doesn't have the power that I have. The visions and reading the future, along with dousing" Hitomi said.
"But he is Draconian" Van reminded her.
"I just don't want to see him hurt"
"He won't be. Please quit worrying. Relax; this isn't helping the baby" Van placed a hand on Hitomi's stomach.
"I can't relax, not until we find the scepter" With that Hitomi left the room.
Breakfast was about an hour later. Hitomi had to tell her mom and dad that they were leaving later that day. She found it harder than she imagined. "Hitomi, you're kind of quiet. I know something is on your mind. What is it?" Mr. Kanzaki asked. "Mom told me that she wanted to go back to the Mystic Moon. Van and I can get you there," Hitomi said.
"When?" Michael asked.
"This is the hard part. Later today" Hitomi said.
"You can't make me go back home today!" Michael cried.
"I'm sorry, quirt, but Van and I are going after the scepter either tomorrow or the day after. I can't afford to leave you here while we're gone," Hitomi said.
"Does that include us?" Amano asked.
"I suppose so. Kevin and the other need to stay here. They're the key protectors'. We need them here," Van said.
"But you don't need us here" Yukari said.
"Yukari that's not it. When all of this business with the scepter is finished you can come back. It's just too dangerous for you to stay here while Van and I are gone" Hitomi argued.
"Then let us come with you" Yukari shot back.
"It's going to be more dangerous in Freid. You'll be on the front lines with us" Van said.
"We can take care of ourselves," Amano said.
"On your world maybe, but Gaea is different. You can't imagine the possibilities that could go wrong," Van said.
"What about Hitomi? During the Great War, wasn't she on the front lines?" Amano snapped.
"Enough!" Hitomi guffawed. "This bickering is pointless. Yes, Amano, I was on the front lines. But I didn't have a choice. I don't know what's going to happen in Freid. If something goes wrong, it could be a blood bath. I want you to avoid seeing that sight" Hitomi said.
"Hitomi, you're our best friend. We just wanna stick with you" Yukari said.
"I realize that, but believe me when I say, if something happens in Freid, it's not going to be a pretty sight" Hitomi said.
"Fine, we'll go home. But only on one condition" Amano said.
"Amano!." Yukari hissed.
"Once Balcifer is gone and everything is back to normal, we come back" Amano said.
Hitomi looked away. Once Balcifer is gone and we have the scepter, we're safe. If they come back, they'll be safe as well. Besides once Amano and Yukari come back, so can your family Van warm voice filled her mind.
"Okay" Hitomi said.
"How will you contact us?" Mrs. Kanzaki asked.
"We won't have to. Once everything is safe, we can wish ourselves to the Mystic Moon" Van said.
"Very well. When do we leave?" Mr. Kanzaki asked.
"By sunset" Van said.
"I'll go find Dani and tell her what's up" Amano said.
"I'll come with you" Yukari said.
Hitomi hated herself for not making this decision earlier. Her family and friends had grown accustomed to Gaea. They had ties to the planet. Hitomi sighed, excused herself from the meal, and walked up to the room that she shared with Van. Packing a few things she knew she would need for the trip; a sudden blast of fatigue swept over the seer's body. She stumbled over to the bed and sat down. She grew concerned; though in the back of her mind, she somehow knew it was her illness that was causing this; she pushed it aside, deciding there were more important things at hand. Pushing herself up off of the bed, she continued packing. Her health was failing her because of this illness. She needed the berries from the Mystic Valley, desperately. She walked out of the room and searched for Tyler. "What's bothering you?" Tyler had been walking around for some time now.
"I need your help" Hitomi told him about her illness. "So you see, I can't be in two places at once. I need to get the scepter, but the berries are needed to stop this damn illness"
"Though getting to the Mystic Valley won't be easy. I get the felling, finding these berries will be harder," Tyler said.
"Will you help me?" Hitomi asked.
"What about the scepter?" Tyler asked.
"I can reach that with no problem. I have the keys. All of them. Once in Freid, you can leave for the Mystic Valley. Don't worry about the others', I can make up an excuse for you" Hitomi said.
"Alright. I'll go and find the berries" Tyler said.
"Thank you" Hitomi somehow felt better.
She couldn't go back into the castle. She needed some fresh air. She left the palace gates and walked through Fanelia. She hadn't been able to look around since they had arrived over week ago. As she walked by the shops and stands, she noticed people bowing and smiling at her. "Come on, please Teikyo?" The voice begged.
"I can't Lady Merle," A female said.
"Merle, what's going on?" Hitomi asked.
"Oh hi Hitomi. I'm trying to talk Teikyo into coming back to the castle with me. But he keeps insisting that he can't" Merle said.
Hitomi looked behind Merle. He stood about 6'1" and had black fur covering his body. White striped covered his arms, legs and tail. Like Merle's, it bobbed back and forth. "Hello, my name is Hitomi Kanzaki" Hitomi introduced herself.
"Hello, Lady Hitomi. My name is Teikyo Higuroso," The male cat said.
"Merle, can I have a word?" Hitomi asked.
"Certainly. I'll be right back Teikyo. Don't you dare think about leaving" Merle said.
They slipped behind a corner. "Who is that?" Hitomi asked.
"He's a friend of mine. I've known him now for about a year or so," Merle said.
"It looks like he's more than a friend," Hitomi said.
"Yeah. I love him" Merle smiled.
"Does he love you?"
"Yes, he does. I'm trying to get him to come to the castle to meet Lord Van, but he's stubborn and pigheaded. He won't came back"
Merle's eyes looked so sad. "I bet you we can get him back to the castle"
"You really think so?" Merle asked.
Her eyes lit up like fireworks at the Fourth of July (sucky analogy. Sorry about that.) They turned the corner and saw Teikyo still standing in the same spot. "Teikyo why don't you come back to the castle?" Hitomi asked.
"I wouldn't feel right. No beast people, with the exception of Lady Merle are allowed in the castle," Teikyo said.
"Well, for today that changes" Hitomi said.
"His Majesty won't be pleased" Teikyo said.
"You just let me take care of Van" Hitomi said.
Teikyo followed Hitomi and Merle to the castle. Some people gawked and some stared. Merle pushed Teikyo through the city and palace gates. They went to the royal gardens and sat down and talked. Hitomi saw why Merle fell in love with Teikyo. He was strong, and willful. Determined and stubborn and very smart. Oh this should be very interesting if Van meets Teikyo Hitomi thought.
Inside the castle, Van was finished up the plans for the trip to Freid. No soldiers would be going. The Council wasn't too pleased about the decision, but stopped arguing with their King after Van had reamed them out. Larson was put in charge. They would be leaving tomorrow. As Van stepped out into the royal gardens, he heard the voices of Merle, Hitomi and someone else. As he walked around he saw the young catboy. Should I even ask? Van's voice penetrated Hitomi's mind. She smiled and saw Van out of the corner of her left eye. "We have a visitor," Hitomi announced.
Merle looked up and saw Van standing by the corner. "It's rude to spy" Merle said. "You're one to talk" Van said.
"You Majesty" Teikyo stood up and bowed.
Van nodded in reply. "Hitomi a word if you please" Van said.
Hitomi got up and walked over to Van. "We're leaving tomorrow. And who is that?" Van asked.
"Merle's new love interest. She loves him as well as Teikyo loves her. We had a little bit of a problem getting him here," Hitomi said.
"Why?"
"He said that no other beast-men are allowed in the castle except for Merle"
"Well if Merle and Teikyo get married that's going to have to change," Van said.
"You think they well?"
"Well, the way things are going, I wouldn't put it past them" Van replied.
Hitomi smiled. "I hope they do. Merle deserves to be happy" Hitomi established.
"Yes, she does" Van agreed.
They walked over to the cat couple. Van and Teikyo hit it off right away. Hitomi told Merle that they were leaving tomorrow. Merle excused herself and left to go pack a few things. Hitomi skipped lunch. She wasn't feeling too good. After lunch, it was time for the good-byes. It was time to go. Hitomi family and friends had to leave. They all stood in the middle of a field. "Take care of my daughter Van" Mr. Kanzaki said.
"I will. I promise I won't allow anything to happen to her" Van vowed.
"Remember what I told you Van. I mean it" Yukari said.
"I remember very well what you said Yukari. Believe me when I say it's not on my to do list" Van said.
"What did she say?" Hitomi inquired?
"She said that if I ever hurt you that she would come back and kill me" Van said.
"Don't take it to heart. Yukari's just trying to look out for me," Hitomi said.
"You friends and family love you very much" Larson said.
"I know" Hitomi replied.
"Does this mean I get you computer?" Michael asked.
"No, that goes to Yukari" Hitomi told her younger sibling.
Van raised the red energist above his head. A blue pillar of light came down and engulfed Hitomi's friends and family. Hitomi waved at everyone until the pillar disappeared. "Cheer up. You'll see them soon," Merle said.
"Still." Hitomi's voice trailed off into the distance.
"Come on we need to get back to the castle" Van took Hitomi's hand and gentle pulled her back.
~Hello everyone! I'm sooooo sorry that it took me soooooo long to get this chapter out. I didn't do it on purpose. I've been very busy with my "boring" life. School starts in about a week or so, and my class schedule was screwed up, so we had to go down to the school and get it fixed. I've had several problems with my life. Just this and that. Computer going haywire, personal problems, stuff like that. I apologize for the delay. Chapter 23 will be kinda boring, but long. Due to factors beyond my control, I don't know when I'll be able to get the chapter written and posted. But please be assured that I don't plan on just dropping it. I have several things on my mind, that are getting in the way of my writing. When my problems are resolved, the story will continue at a normal pace (Whatever normal is.) It has come to my attention, though a review, that someone thinks that I drag this story on and on. Is that true? I don't think so. But I would like other points of view on the subject. If anyone reviews this chapter, could you please answer that question? I would appreciate it. Thank you. I hope you enjoyed this chapter. Bye~
The Scepter of the Dragons Chapter 22: Good-byes By Coolchick1500
The sun was setting by the time dinner was finished. It had been a long day. Some of which Hitomi wished she could forget. As she was walking back to Van's room, her mind never left the subject of who Balcifer really was. She couldn't figure it out. It not like she could go right up to him and ask him who he really was. Maybe if I have a death wish Hitomi thought. She opened the door, entered the room, and closed it. No one had any idea of where to go from there. The keys were left in their owners' possession, until they needed them. "How do I leave my friends out of this" She asked herself.
Though not expecting an answer she got one. "You can't" The voice though warm, concerned Hitomi.
"Varie, I know that this my very well be my friends destinies; however, this is too dangerous" Hitomi said.
"I know that this concerns you, but this is how it has to be. Nothing can change that fact," Varie said.
"They may be annoying sometimes, but they're still my friends. I can't ask them to put their lives in danger" Hitomi said.
"Then you will not win this war. Balcifer will win and you as well as your child will die at his hand" The older woman said.
"Speaking of which. I had a vision or dream, whatever you wish to call them a couple of days ago. I found out that Jared is being controlled by a spell and that Balcifer isn't really Balcifer. Who is he really?" Hitomi asked.
"I can't tell you" Varie said.
"Can't or won't. This is important," Hitomi said.
"It isn't that simple. Balcifer's power is almost impossible to stop. Just like it was before." Varie stopped herself from going further.
"Before when?" Hitomi said.
"I've said too much. I must go" Varie said. With that she disappeared. "Great more mystery to this guy. Varie knows who he is. Folken would know as well. But this doesn't help anyone here who needs the answer" Hitomi cursed under her breath.
She changed into jeans and a T-shirt and went out into the royal gardens. The large oak that was in the middle of the garden extended into the night sky. She climbed the grand tree to the very top branch. She sat down and stared up to the Lunar and Mystic Moons. She sighed deeply and turned her head. She had heard something just a second ago and now movements around the gardens, made her more suspicious. Hitomi climbed down the tree and went back up to the balcony. "Hello? Anyone here?" Hitomi asked.
"Hi Hitomi" Merle jumped out of the bushes.
Hitomi shouted and protested at Merle for scaring her like that. "Geez, I didn't mean to scare you. I just wanted to talk to you. When I didn't get answer on the other side of the door, I thought you were out in the gardens" Merle said.
"And I was. I needed some space to think. The last thing I need tonight is to have a heart attack because one of my best friends wanted to talk to me" Hitomi explained.
"Why what's wrong?" Merle asked.
"Nothing of importance. Just for information that no one will give me" Hitomi last sentence was louder than the rest.
"Who won't give you what?" Merle inquired.
Hitomi sighed. What did she expect? Merle was part cat. And cats are curious. "Varie knows who Balcifer really is and she won't tell me" Hitomi said.
"Varie, Lord Van mother?" Merle asked.
"Yes, she been in the middle of this whole thing since the beginning. Balcifer isn't who we think he is. He's someone else. I just don't know whom. Varie knows and refuses to tell me" Hitomi complained.
"Why the sudden interest in Balcifer?" Merle asked.
"I had a dream a few days ago. In my dream I saw a peaceful future. My daughter as well as your daughter. Jared is being controlled by a spell, no doubt being controlled by Kelar and his friends. If I had slept another thirty seconds I would have found out who he really is," Hitomi said. "Well, you know as well as I do that you'll find out someday" Merle said.
"I agree, but when. We can't wait forever, especially since he's after me" Hitomi said.
"You'll find out when you need to know" Merle said.
"Yeah I know. What was it that you needed to talk to me about?" Hitomi asked.
"Have you told Lord Van about you being pregnant?" Merle asked.
"Yeah" Hitomi replied.
"I'm surprised he doesn't have guards posted at both of your sides" Merle said.
Hitomi smirked. "As do I"
"When are you leaving for Freid?"
"As soon as possible. We have everything we need. We just need to get there before Balcifer"
"Can I come?"
"I don't know. I haven't worked on the plans at all. It'll be a small group. Van and I as well as Adam and the others. I don't know if you'll be coming or not" Hitomi's honesty made Merle pout.
"Why can't you just leave Adam and the others here? And I'll take their place" Merle said.
"The others need to go because they're the protectors of the keys that we need. And I think you'll stay here and back up Larson. When Van and I leave, Van's going to put Larson in charge. You know how those Council Men are"
"I do, but Larson is more than capable of handling them himself. He doesn't need me"
"Is this your way of saying you wanna come with us?" Van said.
Both women turned to see the young king in front of the closed door. "Oh please Lord Van?" Merle threw herself in Van's arms.
"Maybe" Van said. "See, he'll let me come" Merle stuck her tongue out at her close friend.
"Van said maybe," Hitomi said.
She leaned against the bedpost. "Geez, you're marrying Lord Van soon and you know nothing about him. Whenever he says maybe, it's yes" Merle frolicked out of the room.
"You were planning on letting her come, weren't you?" Van asked.
"You think I'd actually leave her alone with Larson and Aklen. By the time we got back, Merle would have shredded Aklen into a million or so pieces" Hitomi said.
Van's grin bought a smile to Hitomi's lips. "Well, if we did that, we wouldn't have to worry about Aklen when we returned" Van said innocently.
He stepped closer to Hitomi. "True, but then Merle would get in trouble," Hitomi said.
Van put his arms around Hitomi waist. "By whom? I wouldn't punish her and neither would you" Van said.
Hitomi ran her arms along Van's long arms. "Sounds like a plan"
"You know we can't do that," Van said.
"I know. It's a nice idea though"
"Yeah, it is" Van leaned his head down and stole a kiss from his fiancée. "I have some work to finish up. Give me about another hour or so and I'll be with you"
"Okay. Hurry back though"
"If you need anything, I'll be in my study" Van stole another kiss.
He was gone before Hitomi could say anything. She went over to the dresser and pulled out a nightgown. She went into the bathroom and jumped into the bathtub after she took her jeans and shirt off. She leaned against the wall and closed her eyes. She got out and put her nightgown on. It was a lavender shade and the stapes were paper-thin. It was a little long, but it didn't bother Hitomi. She curled up on the bed and got comfortable. Minutes later, the door to Van's study opened and lightly closed. "You asleep?" Van asked.
Hitomi turned her head. "Not yet. I'm getting there" "Sorry, I didn't mean to disturb you" Van said.
"No, it's okay. I was waiting for you anyway"
"Oh really. From my point of view, it looked like you were sleeping"
"Ha ha; very funny"
Van pulled his shirt off and threw it down by the end of the bed. He climbed into the bed and pulled Hitomi closer to him. She buried her head in Van's neck. "Get to sleep, love. We have a big day tomorrow"
"Why, what happens tomorrow?"
"Quite a few things. We have to make plans to go to Freid. You have to talk to your friends about getting to Freid. We have to send your family and friends back to the Mystic Moon"
"Oh yeah" Hitomi sounded dejected.
"What's wrong?"
"I guess it's just the fact that I have to send my family back home. I have everything here. I not only have my friends and family, but I have you. All in the same place. I know it's not fair to ask them to stay in a world that they don't know or understand, but still"
"Some people think you don't belong here" Van pointed out.
"I know. It's just going to be hard to see my family leave"
"I know it is. Just sleep" Van's arms came around Hitomi's stomach and rested there.
The next day, Hitomi woke up with the sunrise. There was much to do today and she needed to get a head start. "You do realize that it's much too early to be up" Van voice came from the bed.
"Like you said last night, there's much to be done today. The sooner we get started, the sooner we can finish"
"No one is up at this early an hour," Van said.
"I am" She changed into her shorts and tank. She went down to the kitchen and stole some toast. She met Adam in a hallway. "Hey, what are you doing up so early?" He asked.
"I need to get some stuff done today. Aren't you supposed to be resting?"
"Marina actually let me out of bed today" Adam said.
"I need to talk to you and the others today"
"About what?"
"You'll find out when I talk to you"
"Does it have to do with the keys?"
"Yes, it does"
"Come on. The others are up. Follow me"
We walked out to the courtyard. Hitomi explained to them what was going on and why they needed to come to Fried. Micah and Tess were the only ones not taking it seriously. They were laughing and giggling. "I'm so glad that you find this so funny" Van's voice was a little loud and irritated.
The smiles on Micah and Tess's faces were wiped off. "If you need our help, we'll be there" Tom said.
"All of us" Kevin added.
Micah scoffed and Tess looked shocked. "Thank you" Hitomi said.
"When do we leave?" Adam asked.
"Within the next couple of days" Van said.
"As early as tomorrow and late as the day after" Hitomi said.
"You can't make plans for this thing in a twenty-four hour period" Kevin said.
"I won't take much. You five, Van, Merle, Tyler and myself. Some supplies to hold us over until we get there. Which won't be but a few days" Hitomi said.
"So what, pack up a few things?" Tess asked. "Very few things. We don't want to be bogged down by the stuff we carry" Van said.
"Okay. We'll be ready when you guys are ready to leave" Kevin said.
"Thank you" Hitomi got up and walked back into the castle.
She met up with her brother in the dining hall. "Where's mom and dad?" Hitomi asked.
"I think they're still sleeping" Michael said.
"What are you doing up so early?" Van asked.
"I was looking for Crissy. Do you know where she is?" Michael asked.
"I'm right here, silly" Crissy stood with her back to the door.
Michael and Crissy left the room to go and play. "It's unfair. Michael has to leave someone that he likes behind" Hitomi said.
"You did the same thing" Van pointed out.
"I left because I had to. Michael has to leave because I'm making him. It's not the same thing," Hitomi said.
"If they're meant to be, then he'll find a way back to her" Van said.
"I know that to be true. But he isn't me. He doesn't have the power that I have. The visions and reading the future, along with dousing" Hitomi said.
"But he is Draconian" Van reminded her.
"I just don't want to see him hurt"
"He won't be. Please quit worrying. Relax; this isn't helping the baby" Van placed a hand on Hitomi's stomach.
"I can't relax, not until we find the scepter" With that Hitomi left the room.
Breakfast was about an hour later. Hitomi had to tell her mom and dad that they were leaving later that day. She found it harder than she imagined. "Hitomi, you're kind of quiet. I know something is on your mind. What is it?" Mr. Kanzaki asked. "Mom told me that she wanted to go back to the Mystic Moon. Van and I can get you there," Hitomi said.
"When?" Michael asked.
"This is the hard part. Later today" Hitomi said.
"You can't make me go back home today!" Michael cried.
"I'm sorry, quirt, but Van and I are going after the scepter either tomorrow or the day after. I can't afford to leave you here while we're gone," Hitomi said.
"Does that include us?" Amano asked.
"I suppose so. Kevin and the other need to stay here. They're the key protectors'. We need them here," Van said.
"But you don't need us here" Yukari said.
"Yukari that's not it. When all of this business with the scepter is finished you can come back. It's just too dangerous for you to stay here while Van and I are gone" Hitomi argued.
"Then let us come with you" Yukari shot back.
"It's going to be more dangerous in Freid. You'll be on the front lines with us" Van said.
"We can take care of ourselves," Amano said.
"On your world maybe, but Gaea is different. You can't imagine the possibilities that could go wrong," Van said.
"What about Hitomi? During the Great War, wasn't she on the front lines?" Amano snapped.
"Enough!" Hitomi guffawed. "This bickering is pointless. Yes, Amano, I was on the front lines. But I didn't have a choice. I don't know what's going to happen in Freid. If something goes wrong, it could be a blood bath. I want you to avoid seeing that sight" Hitomi said.
"Hitomi, you're our best friend. We just wanna stick with you" Yukari said.
"I realize that, but believe me when I say, if something happens in Freid, it's not going to be a pretty sight" Hitomi said.
"Fine, we'll go home. But only on one condition" Amano said.
"Amano!." Yukari hissed.
"Once Balcifer is gone and everything is back to normal, we come back" Amano said.
Hitomi looked away. Once Balcifer is gone and we have the scepter, we're safe. If they come back, they'll be safe as well. Besides once Amano and Yukari come back, so can your family Van warm voice filled her mind.
"Okay" Hitomi said.
"How will you contact us?" Mrs. Kanzaki asked.
"We won't have to. Once everything is safe, we can wish ourselves to the Mystic Moon" Van said.
"Very well. When do we leave?" Mr. Kanzaki asked.
"By sunset" Van said.
"I'll go find Dani and tell her what's up" Amano said.
"I'll come with you" Yukari said.
Hitomi hated herself for not making this decision earlier. Her family and friends had grown accustomed to Gaea. They had ties to the planet. Hitomi sighed, excused herself from the meal, and walked up to the room that she shared with Van. Packing a few things she knew she would need for the trip; a sudden blast of fatigue swept over the seer's body. She stumbled over to the bed and sat down. She grew concerned; though in the back of her mind, she somehow knew it was her illness that was causing this; she pushed it aside, deciding there were more important things at hand. Pushing herself up off of the bed, she continued packing. Her health was failing her because of this illness. She needed the berries from the Mystic Valley, desperately. She walked out of the room and searched for Tyler. "What's bothering you?" Tyler had been walking around for some time now.
"I need your help" Hitomi told him about her illness. "So you see, I can't be in two places at once. I need to get the scepter, but the berries are needed to stop this damn illness"
"Though getting to the Mystic Valley won't be easy. I get the felling, finding these berries will be harder," Tyler said.
"Will you help me?" Hitomi asked.
"What about the scepter?" Tyler asked.
"I can reach that with no problem. I have the keys. All of them. Once in Freid, you can leave for the Mystic Valley. Don't worry about the others', I can make up an excuse for you" Hitomi said.
"Alright. I'll go and find the berries" Tyler said.
"Thank you" Hitomi somehow felt better.
She couldn't go back into the castle. She needed some fresh air. She left the palace gates and walked through Fanelia. She hadn't been able to look around since they had arrived over week ago. As she walked by the shops and stands, she noticed people bowing and smiling at her. "Come on, please Teikyo?" The voice begged.
"I can't Lady Merle," A female said.
"Merle, what's going on?" Hitomi asked.
"Oh hi Hitomi. I'm trying to talk Teikyo into coming back to the castle with me. But he keeps insisting that he can't" Merle said.
Hitomi looked behind Merle. He stood about 6'1" and had black fur covering his body. White striped covered his arms, legs and tail. Like Merle's, it bobbed back and forth. "Hello, my name is Hitomi Kanzaki" Hitomi introduced herself.
"Hello, Lady Hitomi. My name is Teikyo Higuroso," The male cat said.
"Merle, can I have a word?" Hitomi asked.
"Certainly. I'll be right back Teikyo. Don't you dare think about leaving" Merle said.
They slipped behind a corner. "Who is that?" Hitomi asked.
"He's a friend of mine. I've known him now for about a year or so," Merle said.
"It looks like he's more than a friend," Hitomi said.
"Yeah. I love him" Merle smiled.
"Does he love you?"
"Yes, he does. I'm trying to get him to come to the castle to meet Lord Van, but he's stubborn and pigheaded. He won't came back"
Merle's eyes looked so sad. "I bet you we can get him back to the castle"
"You really think so?" Merle asked.
Her eyes lit up like fireworks at the Fourth of July (sucky analogy. Sorry about that.) They turned the corner and saw Teikyo still standing in the same spot. "Teikyo why don't you come back to the castle?" Hitomi asked.
"I wouldn't feel right. No beast people, with the exception of Lady Merle are allowed in the castle," Teikyo said.
"Well, for today that changes" Hitomi said.
"His Majesty won't be pleased" Teikyo said.
"You just let me take care of Van" Hitomi said.
Teikyo followed Hitomi and Merle to the castle. Some people gawked and some stared. Merle pushed Teikyo through the city and palace gates. They went to the royal gardens and sat down and talked. Hitomi saw why Merle fell in love with Teikyo. He was strong, and willful. Determined and stubborn and very smart. Oh this should be very interesting if Van meets Teikyo Hitomi thought.
Inside the castle, Van was finished up the plans for the trip to Freid. No soldiers would be going. The Council wasn't too pleased about the decision, but stopped arguing with their King after Van had reamed them out. Larson was put in charge. They would be leaving tomorrow. As Van stepped out into the royal gardens, he heard the voices of Merle, Hitomi and someone else. As he walked around he saw the young catboy. Should I even ask? Van's voice penetrated Hitomi's mind. She smiled and saw Van out of the corner of her left eye. "We have a visitor," Hitomi announced.
Merle looked up and saw Van standing by the corner. "It's rude to spy" Merle said. "You're one to talk" Van said.
"You Majesty" Teikyo stood up and bowed.
Van nodded in reply. "Hitomi a word if you please" Van said.
Hitomi got up and walked over to Van. "We're leaving tomorrow. And who is that?" Van asked.
"Merle's new love interest. She loves him as well as Teikyo loves her. We had a little bit of a problem getting him here," Hitomi said.
"Why?"
"He said that no other beast-men are allowed in the castle except for Merle"
"Well if Merle and Teikyo get married that's going to have to change," Van said.
"You think they well?"
"Well, the way things are going, I wouldn't put it past them" Van replied.
Hitomi smiled. "I hope they do. Merle deserves to be happy" Hitomi established.
"Yes, she does" Van agreed.
They walked over to the cat couple. Van and Teikyo hit it off right away. Hitomi told Merle that they were leaving tomorrow. Merle excused herself and left to go pack a few things. Hitomi skipped lunch. She wasn't feeling too good. After lunch, it was time for the good-byes. It was time to go. Hitomi family and friends had to leave. They all stood in the middle of a field. "Take care of my daughter Van" Mr. Kanzaki said.
"I will. I promise I won't allow anything to happen to her" Van vowed.
"Remember what I told you Van. I mean it" Yukari said.
"I remember very well what you said Yukari. Believe me when I say it's not on my to do list" Van said.
"What did she say?" Hitomi inquired?
"She said that if I ever hurt you that she would come back and kill me" Van said.
"Don't take it to heart. Yukari's just trying to look out for me," Hitomi said.
"You friends and family love you very much" Larson said.
"I know" Hitomi replied.
"Does this mean I get you computer?" Michael asked.
"No, that goes to Yukari" Hitomi told her younger sibling.
Van raised the red energist above his head. A blue pillar of light came down and engulfed Hitomi's friends and family. Hitomi waved at everyone until the pillar disappeared. "Cheer up. You'll see them soon," Merle said.
"Still." Hitomi's voice trailed off into the distance.
"Come on we need to get back to the castle" Van took Hitomi's hand and gentle pulled her back.
~Hello everyone! I'm sooooo sorry that it took me soooooo long to get this chapter out. I didn't do it on purpose. I've been very busy with my "boring" life. School starts in about a week or so, and my class schedule was screwed up, so we had to go down to the school and get it fixed. I've had several problems with my life. Just this and that. Computer going haywire, personal problems, stuff like that. I apologize for the delay. Chapter 23 will be kinda boring, but long. Due to factors beyond my control, I don't know when I'll be able to get the chapter written and posted. But please be assured that I don't plan on just dropping it. I have several things on my mind, that are getting in the way of my writing. When my problems are resolved, the story will continue at a normal pace (Whatever normal is.) It has come to my attention, though a review, that someone thinks that I drag this story on and on. Is that true? I don't think so. But I would like other points of view on the subject. If anyone reviews this chapter, could you please answer that question? I would appreciate it. Thank you. I hope you enjoyed this chapter. Bye~