Hi, ya'll. DragonSun here. I was a bit late in doing these chapters
(Notice that it's plural!) so sorry. This is chapter 6, and I'm putting 7
on, too. Yikes, the disclaimer! I forgot!
I don't own Escaflowne—I don't own Van, Hitomi, etc.
A Chance
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Hitomi fingered both of Van's feathers, tears starting in her eyes. Two feathers…and they hold so many memories…so many…Van—I never got around to telling you—I never realized until that song took me away—I don't know if you feel the same…but I—
There was a knock on the front door. It wasn't her mother; it was too early for her to be home. Hitomi hazarded a guess. "Yukari? Is that you?"
"Yes, and I've got wonderful news!" Yukari shouted back. What, you've managed to hook me up with Van, Hitomi snorted. She went downstairs and opened the door. Yukari excitedly told her. Hitomi hugged Yukari. "Amano got into a college in America? That's wonderful! But you—what about—" Yukari smiled. "We'll keep in touch. He promises to remember me—and anyway, he can always visit over the summer." Wish Van could do that… Hitomi thought miserably. "Hitomi—you never tell fortunes any more. Why?"
"I gave my cards away," Hitomi said, "I told you."
"That's not a reason!" Yukari cried, waving her arms. "So what? Why couldn't you go into palm reading—you know?" Hitomi sighed, brushing her hair back into place.
"Because it changed the future. I've had too much a share in changing the future." I'd seen so many deaths…prevented them…what did I change? I saw Van die in the last vision, I saw his body falling and I heard Folken laughing. And I stopped him from dying. Was it because he wasn't supposed to die yet? Or because I loved him?
"Oh, Hitomi! Couldn't you just do my fortune? Or your own?" Hitomi shook her head.
"I don't have cards anymore."
"I'll buy them," Yukari insisted. "Please, I want to see how Amano and I will be in the future!" Hitomi remained firm.
"No."
Yukari gave her a pair of sad brown eyes. A puppy face. "Well…" Hitomi said slowly, "as long as you promise not to try to change it after you hear it." Yukari smiled brightly and pulled a pack of tarot cards from her backpack. "I knew I could convince you—I brought the cards ahead of time." Hitomi made a face. "Humph. You conniver." She took the cards and began to arranged them properly, feeling the familiar lump rising into her throat. Van…I wanted to tell you…but I couldn't— She cleared her mind of such thoughts and continued.
Tell me, will Amano and Yukari remain together, even while separated? She lifted the center card. L'amore. Lovers… She reshuffled and pulled again, satisfied with her answer. "All right. Yukari, you and Amano will remain together. And he will come back this summer." "Are you sure you aren't just saying that to please me?" Yukari asked. "Oh no," Hitomi assured her. "It's what the cards say." Hitomi made to hand the cards back to her friend. Van…I lo—miss you…so much…will I ever see you again…? she thought, holding them out. Yukari tried to grab them and missed; one card fell face down to the ground.
"Whoops," Yukari said, and bent down. Hitomi got the card before she did and was about to give it back when she saw what it was. She froze. Wheel of Fortune. Anything is possible. Anything will or can happen. It all depends on you.
"Oh, damn!" she swore. "Hitomi—is something wrong?" Yukari said. "No, I just got a paper cut," Hitomi lied, absentmindedly reaching into her own backpack to touch Van's feather.
********************
Celena stared at the candle, intrigued. The little red flame danced merrily, taunting her. There was something very interesting about fire…she stroked her right cheek. There was something that resembled an itch there… "Celena!" Gaddis hissed, tapping her arm. "Huh?" Celena said, blinking. "Snap out of it," he whispered. "Oh. Sorry, oniisama," Celena said. Van stared miserably up at the Mystic Moon, standing on the grass. Courtiers passed, whispering to themselves, but the wind carried their words to Gaddis and his sister. "…thinking about the Goddess of Wings, no doubt…" "…the Tsbasi no Kami left him…" "…for another man, I heard…" Van made a small growl of frustration. "There was no other man," he muttered. "Shut the hell up." The woman who'd made the comment fled, mortified, into the crowd.
"Van," Gaddis said. Van looked down from the sky, rubbing the stiffness from his neck.
"Yeah?" he asked.
"Hitomi means a lot to you, doesn't she?" Gaddis murmured.
Van nodded forlornly.
"Call her back, why don't you," Gaddis suggested.
"I've considered it," Van said quietly. "But think. Hitomi is happy on the Moon of Illusions. As long as she's happy, that's all that counts."
"Somehow I don't think she is," Gaddis said.
"What do you mean?" Van demanded. "She's back home."
"But without you," Gaddis added.
"I can't leave," Van snarled, "I'm a King! I've got bloody responsibilities, to my people and Fanelia!" he paused. "And neither can she! She's got family there, two good friends, and she knows her own world. She'd be so…unhappy…here. How do you even know she wants to come back?"
"How do you know she wouldn't?" Gaddis persisted. Van sunk into the grass with a sigh.
"I can sense it. You know we have a link. That's another thing. It's deteriorating. I can feel it going. One day I'll wake up and it'll be gone. Hitomi will be gone. For good." He buried his head in his arms and continued talking brokenly, his voice muffled. "…I wouldn't be able to take it…I'd lose it again…Escaflowne would be rampaging…" He looked up again at the Mystic Moon. "But Hitomi…" he said softly and looked abruptly away. "I'll never bring her back here where she would be rejected by my people. I don't want to see her sad, d'you understand?"
Gaddis nodded wordlessly. Van stood up and walked slowly away, his shoulders jerking with silent sobs, oblivious to the stares his people and court were giving him. Damn my life, he thought bitterly. Hitomi…if you can hear me…I love you…
***************
Hitomi tossed and turned in her sleep. Van stood at the edge of the valley, his wings unfurled. "Van!" she exclaimed happily, running to greet him. "Hitomi…I can't stay…" he said.
"But—you—"
"The link is dying…" he said, his voice growing quiet. "Can't you feel it…?" Hitomi stared at him, her eyes wide.
"No—it can't be happening…Van…"
"One day I will not be able to contact you…or you me…I can't stay long…already…Hitomi…if you can hear me…I lov—" The light from his wings dimmed and he faded away…
"No! Van—come back! There's something I have to tell you—"
"Hitomi! Hitomi…" Yukari shook her desperately.
"Wh-what? Yukari?"
"I…Amano and I came to see you. The front door was unlocked and when we came in you were having some nightmare." Oh no. "Yelling someone's name…" Yukari continued. Double oh no. How much did she hear? "Hitomi, I need to know who this Van person is." Hitomi flushed and looked at her hands. Might as well tell her…
"You know that guy we were talking about…?"
"Oh," Yukari said. "Hitomi, you got to learn to let these things go, y'know." Hitomi looked up sharply, her normally gentle eyes flashing green sparks.
"No! I'll never let Van go!" Yukari backed away.
"Hitomi—you're different now—what happened that day you stayed after school a year ago? You've changed…"
"Yukari," Hitomi said, exerting control to keep her voice calm, "things have changed—"
"Not enough for you to become so—strange! Hitomi, you never smile as much either! When you do, it's always as if it's for someone else who doesn't exist! And you just ignore everything, sit there dreaming—I saw you in calc, you were asleep, then you woke up and gave the damn right answer! What's wrong?"
"I fell in love," Hitomi said through gritted teeth. "Why don't you leave, Yukari?" Yukari smiled bitterly, angry tears beginning to form.
"Fine. I don't think we'll be talking again. Goodbye, Kanzaki Hitomi." She turned and stalked away.
"Hitomi—is something wrong?" Amano asked her. He was worried; after Yukari had met him outside in tears, obviously something was wrong—if only Hitomi would tell him…
"Nothing is wrong, Amano," Hitomi said quietly, clenching her hands. "But I think you should leave too, before I lose it totally and start throwing things at you." Amano nodded, giving her that charming smiled she'd always adored. It's not Van's smile…she thought wistfully, remembering his slow and rare grin—something he'd often saved for her—and her alone…
"If you need to talk, I'm always here. I'll talk to Yukari for you, if you want."
"Thanks, Amano," Hitomi mumbled. She wiped her eyes and went to brew some tea to drink. Oh, Van…
******************
"LORD VAAAAAN!!!!" Ariel shrieked, throwing herself on the King.
Van hugged her back, but he gasped, "Air—" Ariel released her grip on him, and as she did, something gold flickered in the sunlight. Van grabbed her hand.
"Oh—uh…" Ariel quickly hid her hand behind her.
"Who is it?" Van asked, delighted for his friend.
"Ruku," she said, breathless and flustered.
"That's wonderful!" Van exclaimed. "Lord Van…about Hitomi…" Ariel mumbled slowly. Van stiffened.
"Yes?" he said tightly.
"You miss her a lot, don't you?"
Van nodded, a quick drop of his chin, biting his lip.
"I—uh…oh, never mind…" Ariel looked away.
"Where's Ruku now?" Van said.
"Here," Ruku said, coming from the shadows. The dog-boy had grown lean and strong, his tuft of red hair fell in a curly pile over his eyes, and he brushed it aside impatiently. Ariel smiled at him as he took her hand. "Majesty," Ruku bowed.
"No titles," Van muttered. "Please," he added.
"Whatever you say—Van," Ruku smiled. "Whatever happened to your lady?" he added, though he knew very well—he had been there, after all. Van sighed.
"We sent her back. We've been keeping in touch though." Ruku looked at the King in awe, marveling at his ability to bear such a loss—especially one of such a lovely, talented young woman. Ruku was wrong. Inside, Van was being torn up.
*******************
Somewhere in the lands beyond…
'Folken-sama!' Eriya called. She ran to him, her arms full of wildflowers. Folken turned, planting a kiss on her cheek as he did. 'Hello, dearest,' he said softly. We're finally reunited, he thought with an inner smile, even if we are dead, we are together. 'Where's Naria?' Eriya asked. 'You're dumping me for her?' Folken teased. Eriya slapped his hand playfully. 'No, silly, I just don't want her near you when we…' 'When we what?' Folken asked, though he knew very well. Eriya kissed him, blushing. 'Come on,' she said, and pulled him off.
*******************
Hitomi woke slowly. The cool spring breeze stirred her short hair. "Folken is happy," she said. Oh Van…I wish… "Hitomi?" Amano asked. Hitomi turned her head. "Hi, Amano. How's Yukari?"
"Fine," Amano acknowledged, "but she's not going to speak to you. You do realize that, don't you?" Hitomi nodded sadly.
"Yes. But I'm not going to apologize—"
"Hitomi, is there still anything you'd want to talk about?" Amano said. Hitomi sighed. She needed to get it out.
"Swear you won't tell anyone, or think I'm crazy?" she said.
Amano watched her intently as he answered, "I swear." Hitomi smiled, and this time it was for him, the first real smile he'd seen her wear in months.
"Good. Okay…" she took a deep breath and began. "You know that day you asked Yukari out for the first time?" Amano nodded. "Well…I was practicing on track and…Amano, would you believe me if I said there were other worlds besides this one?" Amano nodded again, not really believing, but he wanted to hear what she was going to say. "I was Summoned to a place called Gaea—I met a guy named Van…" The sun began to set as she continued with her narrative. "…and then he sent me back," she finished. It was late. Amano nodded—the way she'd described everything, and the proof she'd had—he half believed her. But—it wasn't possible…or was it?
"I want more than anything to go back. Say, Amano?" she turned to him as she made her decision. "Tell my family, especially Keji, that I love them—my dad, too, and tell Yukari I am sorry that I yelled at her—and I'll always like you as a friend…I love you all…but I need to go…" Amano smiled, and nodded for the twentieth time.
"I understand, Hitomi."
"Hey, keep an eye out for me, okay?" Hitomi said softly, "I might come back here—to check on you guys…you'll always see me…when you dream…goodbye, Amano." She hugged him and stepped away quickly. "I can tell you don't really believe me," Hitomi murmured. "But I'm going to prove you wrong."
She'd taken Van's feathers out to show Amano. Hitomi raised one above her head. Please take me back to Gaea… "Take me back!" she yelled. Van…I'm coming back now…I love you…take me back…
******************
At that exact moment, Van was standing alone on the balcony. He gripped the Sword hilt tightly, remembering the day she'd slapped him—and smiled sadly. I'd let you slap me every day, if you just came back… Hitomi…I'll do anything…
******************
Folken turned to Eriya. 'Take my hand,' he said gently. Eriya took it without a question. Folken closed his eyes and hummed a song in his head. 'I wish for Van to be happy—I wish for Hitomi to return to him…'
*****************
Amano gasped and pointed. Hitomi looked up and a broad grin spread across her delicate features. A steady pillar of blue light began to slide slowly down from the heavens—her ticket to Gaea. "Amano—tell everyone—" Hitomi cried, "—I'll miss you all—" The light enveloped her and she vanished.
*****************
Van sighed. It would never happen. She probably didn't want to return. He considered slashing his wrists right then and there; at the moment, bleeding to death didn't seem like such a bad option. His shoulders shook. She doesn't love me. He remembered, bitterly…
"I'll—miss…you, Van," she said softly. "You're a…good friend." She hesitated with her words. Van smiled unhappily and thought, Miss me, only? Just a friend…huh. Was that the kiss of a friend?
Van snorted. "Humph. If I was meant to be unhappy for the rest of my damned life couldn't I have been unhappy with her?" It's because she's probably out there being happy with some other guy. Hitomi's too nice to go unnoticed. Just then he noticed something—shouts and screams from the city below. "What the—" Van looked out sharply and gasped. A steady blue column of light was descending from the sky, rapidly fading. His heart leapt into his throat. Hitomi?!
"Van!!" Gaddis pounded across the marble floor. "Van—did you just see—" Van nodded swiftly. "You stay here, Gaddis, I'll go find out what it is." Gaddis saw that though the King was keeping his voice deceptively calm, the rest of him was shaking with excitement. "Van—maybe we should—" Van cracked his wings from his back, ignoring him. "Van, wait—"
"Shut up, Gaddis, I know what I'm doing!" Van sprang from the balcony, beating his wings powerfully as he shot toward the source of the light.
He wanted to shout her name—it must be her—it had to be— "Hitomi," he murmured, urging himself onward.
********************
Hitomi shuddered as she dissolved into the light. She shut her eyes tightly as she was pulled toward Gaea—smiling. "Van…I'm coming back now…" She remembered his face—when he was angry—when he was grinning…the anguish in his voice when he spoke of Fanelia…the blaze of his gray eyes…and the envious protective way he acted when she talked about other men… "The power of wishes…" Hitomi muttered. Her grandmother had told her something about wishes—how they could change the world. Hitomi smiled as she remembered her grandmother—who's sparkling green eyes always seemed to be somewhere else. It was her grandmother who'd first introduced the idea that other worlds in alternate dimensions existed.
Then she was there, thrown roughly upon a carpet of lush grass, shaded by gigantic trees, their leaves brushing up against her skin. Note to self, she said silently, beginning to smile, work on landings. The place sparkled with dew and sunlight—she breathed in deeply, feeling the moisture that hung in the air. It's—so beautiful… Hitomi rose to her feet, walking cautiously toward the source of the sunlight. It was a deep forest, quiet and radiant in the late morning sun. Hitomi came to a clearing and gave a small sob. It was Folken's tomb—the place where Van had sent her back. The Escaflowne sat, unmoving, in guymelef form, besides the marble building, its energist glowing next to it, sheltered by the grass. Flowers had sprung up, vivid and wild, growing alongside the building. Hitomi knelt by the inscription on Folken's grave, plucking a handful of flowers from the ground beside her and placing them across it. She was suddenly aware of the cracking noise of someone approaching. Whoever it was wasn't taking the care to be quiet; they stumbled over logs and crushed both leaves and twigs in their haste. Hitomi scrambled to her feet, running into the shelter of the trees ringing the tomb.
Van bashed the branches away with his wings, sprinting toward the forest clearing. Faster, he had to go faster. His breathing was quick, and the blood burned in his veins— He exploded into the clearing and collapsed in disappointment and exhaustion. She wasn't there. Nothing was there but the tomb and the Escaflowne. Van buried his head in his arms and wept with frustration. She's gone. Never going to see her again. Never. Never. Never. He let the tears fall from his face into the grass unashamedly. What was the point of hiding it anymore? She wasn't ever coming back. Never. Van rose, shaking with fatigue, anger, and sadness—he reached for his Sword—considering whether or not to end the pain. "VAN!" someone cried—then he was bowled over by someone—something. All he knew was he was being squeezed to death by some laughing, crying creature—something with dark brown hair and soulful emerald eyes—not a creature at all, but a girl—and she was—
"Hitomi?" Van said, in quiet disbelief. He peered at her face. "Hitomi!" he yelled, throwing his arms around her and pulling her closer into his embrace. He hugged her to him, smiling so hard he thought his cheeks would burst. "Hitomi, you came back—Hitomi…" Hitomi buried her head in his shoulder. "Oh, Van…" she said, beginning to cry, "Van…I missed you—I really…" Van sat up and touched her cheek with his fingertips, wiping her tears away. "Hitomi," was all he could say. Hitomi scrubbed at her eyes, smiling at him. "I couldn't stay away from you—and the others—" "Good thing, too," Van said seriously, "I was considering slitting my own throat." Hitomi stared at him, her eyes wide. "Oh, Van—I would never forgive myself if you—" Van took her hand and kissed it with swift grace. "Gaddis taught me," he announced proudly. Hitomi flushed. "Come on, I'll get you to the palace, show you around—get you a room, some clothing…" Van trailed off as he looked into Hitomi's eyes and got lost. She broke the spell by getting off him quickly. "I must weight much more than Ariel—how could you stand me?" Van grinned, a cheeky, impudent grin that she wanted to bask in forever. "You're pretty ligh—" he cut his last word off and said again, "because you're beautiful." Hitomi blushed even more.
"Van!"
"Oh, but it's true," Van whispered, gathering her into his arms and leaping off the ground.
They flew over the city at a brisk pace; Van had forgotten all his tiredness, but was flying slower to give Hitomi a chance to see the view. She stared down, awed. "This—is Fanelia? Oh, Van, it's beautiful!" she breathed. Indeed it was. The river sparkled like a jewel, flowing in a curve midst the houses. There were people outside, a bazaar in the east, and to the north—the palace! It was ivory, like the Escaflowne, tall spires up in the sky and green flags fluttering from them.
"Like it?" Van asked. Hitomi smiled.
"You know I do," she said.
"They—my people—don't know it's me. Want to give them a scare?" Van said, a mischievous glint in his eyes.
"What do you mean?" Hitomi whispered.
"Okay—" Van explained his scheme, "I need you to scream as loud as you can, for as long as you can. Got it? I'll tell you when to stop."
Hitomi grinned, opening her mouth, but before she started, she said, "If I deafen you, don't say I didn't warn you." Hitomi screamed. Van gave a huge laugh, swooping lower so that the townspeople got a look at him.
"Gods save us—mercy!" someone shrieked.
"'Tis a Draconian! And he's got someone!" a man yelled, panic stricken.
"Poor lass—" another man remarked.
"Draconian—an attack—gods!"
A huge crowd gathered, watching the Draconian in the sky with Hitomi. Van chuckled; he clamped a hand securely over her mouth to stop her. She gasped, then took a deep, deep breath, replacing lost air.
"Now watch this," Van smiled. He dove towards the people with a roar. The crowd scattered, screaming. Van swooped up, flying fast and furious to the palace.
"Why the hurry?" Hitomi asked.
"One, you're probably exhausted with all this screaming," Van tickled her shoulder with the tip of his wing. "Two, I see one man running over to tell the King that there's an evil Draconian rampant who's kidnapping innocent girls."
"I assure you, I'm anything but innocent," Hitomi laughed. Van smiled again—it was good to hear her laugh.
The King landed on the palace balcony and retracted his wings with a small grimace. He grasped her hand and led her into the palace, explaining what had happened like an eager child. On the way they met Terci, who was carrying a basket of—what else—fresh sheets. When the servant girl saw them she dropped the sheets with a small shriek.
"Terci, get a guest room prepared for Hitomi," Van ordered. "Oh, and the man who claims there are Draconians around must be suffering from heat exhaustion and delusion. Send him off." Terci tried not to stare at the newcomer. Was it even a girl? The person's hair was so short! And her clothing… She obeyed and scurried off, hastily folding the sheets. Who was this girl? It seemed the King knew her somehow—
"What could be taking Van so long?" Celena demanded. "He said he'd spar with you—he was supposed to be here an hour ago!"
"I think our answer is here," Gaddis replied, smiling at his impatient younger sister. Merla nodded. He turned back to look at the King and squinted. "Hey—is that someone else with him? Is it—no—by the gods! Hitomi, you've returned!" Gaddis shouted.
"Gaddis!" Hitomi exclaimed. "Oh, it's wonderful to see you!" Van watched, slightly jealous, but he knew Gaddis was married and was therefore no real threat. Hitomi waited for him to catch up with her.
"So this is the Tsbasi no Kami?" Celena asked. Van nodded, jubilantly planting a kiss on Hitomi's cheek. "It's nice to meet you, Hitomi!" Celena curtsied daintily, smiling. Hitomi bowed.
"Gaddis, is it okay that we skip this session—I've got to disappoint another princess," Van said with a grin. Gaddis nodded, an equally cheeky smile lighting up his face.
"The last one tried to hit on me, after you dumped her," he added. "How 'bout we pick this spar up later, when it's not so hot?"
"Yes, I need to get out of this," Merla smiled, lifting her sleeve to show its heavy velvet fabric. "I never did like this dress." Gaddis pretended to sulk.
"Hey, I bought it for you—"
"—when you thought I was fat, love." Merla interrupted. All five—Van, Hitomi, Gaddis, Celena, and Merla—laughed.
****************
"Where is his Majesty Van Fanel?" Princess Wyera demanded. Her long purple hair was arranged neatly for the meeting with her betrothed.
"His Majesty is out sparring with a Knight of Caeli, Gaddis Schezar," Lord Siel informed her hastily.
"Why is he not here?" Wyera said. "Surely a swordfight is not as important."
"Ah, but Lord Van intends to keep his promises."
Van strolled in, followed by Celena, Gaddis, Merla, and Hitomi. While Celena, Merla, and Gaddis stood directly behind him, Hitomi lingered a few feet away, unsure. "Lord Van," Siel bowed, looked nervously at his King. Van sent him a look that meant, 'I'll handle this.'
"King Van," Wyera curtsied deeply, eyeing the Caeli Knight behind him with open scorn.
"Princess—ah…your name?" Van said, taking her hand and kissing it with the smooth grace that Gaddis had taught him.
"Wyera, milord," Wyera said, in a voice so sweet it was sickening to Van's ears. "We will be married in a month, my father says," she added.
"Princess Wyera—I'm sorry, but I've already got a commitment to—ah…I've already quite a few problems—and I have a commitment to go and solve them. Marriage really will get in the way." Wyera could have sworn the King was about to say he already had a sweetheart. She looked at the small, silver- haired child behind him. Too young. Now the other girl was something to be considered. She had such short hair and such strange clothing—how could the King consider her beautiful?
"But father's already thought of that. He promises you an alliance with Daedalus and—"
"Princess Wyera, in my country we marry for love and not for power, or alliances," Van interrupted.
"But Lord Van, who else could there possibly be for you?" Wyera said innocently. Van glanced at Hitomi and took a deep breath. Dare I make the jump? It's now or never. Damn, but I love her. Go to it, Fanel. He went and pulled her near to him, wrapping one arm around her shoulders. "Hitomi—is here for me," he said softly. Hitomi gasped, then blushed.
"Lord Van!" Siel exclaimed in horror. Gaddis smiled—Celena beamed—and Merla clapped. Wyera froze in absolute anger.
"But she is not of royal blood! I can tell! How can you love—"
"Two things, my dear princess," Van said icily, "One, never insult Hitomi in front of me—if you were a man I would have challenged you already. Two, my mother was not of royal blood and she married my father—Fanelia prospered. For love, don't you understand?" Hitomi reddened more.
"Van…maybe this isn't the right time…" Siel winced when she did not address him as King Van. Van glared at the Daedalian Princess.
"Princess Wyera, as King of Fanelia, I formally reject your offer of marriage." Wyera made a small growl as she exited in a flounce of petticoats. If I can't have him, or his country, she won't either!
Hitomi buried her head in Van's shirt to conceal her red face. He was red, too, but he stroked her hair, feeling very awkward as the Schezars beamed in the background.
"Lord Van, how can you—you don't even know this girl! I know you were desperate to rid yourself of further marriage proposals, but grabbing a girl from the streets and asking her to pose as your sweetheart is just too much—" Siel cried, waving his arms.
"Siel," Van said quietly, "look at her." Siel looked and gasped.
"But—that is the Goddess!! My gods! Lord Van, why didn't you ever tell me? I could have broken every single marriage proposal sent your way since they started!" Van smiled at his advisor.
"That's nice of you," he chuckled. "But it's a bit late for all that. I think you'll try to halt them in the future, right? And get your colleagues to agree." Siel nodded vigorously.
"Oh, yes, sire!"
"Come on, then, Hitomi," Van said, and pulled her from the room. "Van!" she cried, the moment they were from the throne room, "do you really mean it?"
"Hitomi," Van said. "I wanted to tell you—I was just afraid during the Destiny War—I was afraid Folken would steal you away, and I'd lose you, like everyone else. I was afraid you wouldn't return…that you were in love with someone else…But I'll tell you now. Hitomi…I…love you. I think I've always loved you—since the day you slapped me, at any rate." He looked anxiously at her face.
"Van…" Hitomi said, blushing. "I—I've missed you so much—and I realized—that…somewhere along the way…I—fell in love with you…Van…and I was just too stupid to realize…" She wrapped her arms around his neck. Van grabbed his chance and just grazed her lips with his. She squeaked in surprise, then pulled his head down for a second kiss.
Awww…isn't that sweet…
Do you want a sequel for Escaflowne? Just Hitomi getting back, and perhaps a new threat? I was watching it yesterday…Van is such an idiot for not realizing his feelings…
They make a cute couple.
The Day the Angel Flew is my favorite episode. It's also the last one I taped before Fox Kids took the show off the air.
I don't own Escaflowne—I don't own Van, Hitomi, etc.
A Chance
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Hitomi fingered both of Van's feathers, tears starting in her eyes. Two feathers…and they hold so many memories…so many…Van—I never got around to telling you—I never realized until that song took me away—I don't know if you feel the same…but I—
There was a knock on the front door. It wasn't her mother; it was too early for her to be home. Hitomi hazarded a guess. "Yukari? Is that you?"
"Yes, and I've got wonderful news!" Yukari shouted back. What, you've managed to hook me up with Van, Hitomi snorted. She went downstairs and opened the door. Yukari excitedly told her. Hitomi hugged Yukari. "Amano got into a college in America? That's wonderful! But you—what about—" Yukari smiled. "We'll keep in touch. He promises to remember me—and anyway, he can always visit over the summer." Wish Van could do that… Hitomi thought miserably. "Hitomi—you never tell fortunes any more. Why?"
"I gave my cards away," Hitomi said, "I told you."
"That's not a reason!" Yukari cried, waving her arms. "So what? Why couldn't you go into palm reading—you know?" Hitomi sighed, brushing her hair back into place.
"Because it changed the future. I've had too much a share in changing the future." I'd seen so many deaths…prevented them…what did I change? I saw Van die in the last vision, I saw his body falling and I heard Folken laughing. And I stopped him from dying. Was it because he wasn't supposed to die yet? Or because I loved him?
"Oh, Hitomi! Couldn't you just do my fortune? Or your own?" Hitomi shook her head.
"I don't have cards anymore."
"I'll buy them," Yukari insisted. "Please, I want to see how Amano and I will be in the future!" Hitomi remained firm.
"No."
Yukari gave her a pair of sad brown eyes. A puppy face. "Well…" Hitomi said slowly, "as long as you promise not to try to change it after you hear it." Yukari smiled brightly and pulled a pack of tarot cards from her backpack. "I knew I could convince you—I brought the cards ahead of time." Hitomi made a face. "Humph. You conniver." She took the cards and began to arranged them properly, feeling the familiar lump rising into her throat. Van…I wanted to tell you…but I couldn't— She cleared her mind of such thoughts and continued.
Tell me, will Amano and Yukari remain together, even while separated? She lifted the center card. L'amore. Lovers… She reshuffled and pulled again, satisfied with her answer. "All right. Yukari, you and Amano will remain together. And he will come back this summer." "Are you sure you aren't just saying that to please me?" Yukari asked. "Oh no," Hitomi assured her. "It's what the cards say." Hitomi made to hand the cards back to her friend. Van…I lo—miss you…so much…will I ever see you again…? she thought, holding them out. Yukari tried to grab them and missed; one card fell face down to the ground.
"Whoops," Yukari said, and bent down. Hitomi got the card before she did and was about to give it back when she saw what it was. She froze. Wheel of Fortune. Anything is possible. Anything will or can happen. It all depends on you.
"Oh, damn!" she swore. "Hitomi—is something wrong?" Yukari said. "No, I just got a paper cut," Hitomi lied, absentmindedly reaching into her own backpack to touch Van's feather.
********************
Celena stared at the candle, intrigued. The little red flame danced merrily, taunting her. There was something very interesting about fire…she stroked her right cheek. There was something that resembled an itch there… "Celena!" Gaddis hissed, tapping her arm. "Huh?" Celena said, blinking. "Snap out of it," he whispered. "Oh. Sorry, oniisama," Celena said. Van stared miserably up at the Mystic Moon, standing on the grass. Courtiers passed, whispering to themselves, but the wind carried their words to Gaddis and his sister. "…thinking about the Goddess of Wings, no doubt…" "…the Tsbasi no Kami left him…" "…for another man, I heard…" Van made a small growl of frustration. "There was no other man," he muttered. "Shut the hell up." The woman who'd made the comment fled, mortified, into the crowd.
"Van," Gaddis said. Van looked down from the sky, rubbing the stiffness from his neck.
"Yeah?" he asked.
"Hitomi means a lot to you, doesn't she?" Gaddis murmured.
Van nodded forlornly.
"Call her back, why don't you," Gaddis suggested.
"I've considered it," Van said quietly. "But think. Hitomi is happy on the Moon of Illusions. As long as she's happy, that's all that counts."
"Somehow I don't think she is," Gaddis said.
"What do you mean?" Van demanded. "She's back home."
"But without you," Gaddis added.
"I can't leave," Van snarled, "I'm a King! I've got bloody responsibilities, to my people and Fanelia!" he paused. "And neither can she! She's got family there, two good friends, and she knows her own world. She'd be so…unhappy…here. How do you even know she wants to come back?"
"How do you know she wouldn't?" Gaddis persisted. Van sunk into the grass with a sigh.
"I can sense it. You know we have a link. That's another thing. It's deteriorating. I can feel it going. One day I'll wake up and it'll be gone. Hitomi will be gone. For good." He buried his head in his arms and continued talking brokenly, his voice muffled. "…I wouldn't be able to take it…I'd lose it again…Escaflowne would be rampaging…" He looked up again at the Mystic Moon. "But Hitomi…" he said softly and looked abruptly away. "I'll never bring her back here where she would be rejected by my people. I don't want to see her sad, d'you understand?"
Gaddis nodded wordlessly. Van stood up and walked slowly away, his shoulders jerking with silent sobs, oblivious to the stares his people and court were giving him. Damn my life, he thought bitterly. Hitomi…if you can hear me…I love you…
***************
Hitomi tossed and turned in her sleep. Van stood at the edge of the valley, his wings unfurled. "Van!" she exclaimed happily, running to greet him. "Hitomi…I can't stay…" he said.
"But—you—"
"The link is dying…" he said, his voice growing quiet. "Can't you feel it…?" Hitomi stared at him, her eyes wide.
"No—it can't be happening…Van…"
"One day I will not be able to contact you…or you me…I can't stay long…already…Hitomi…if you can hear me…I lov—" The light from his wings dimmed and he faded away…
"No! Van—come back! There's something I have to tell you—"
"Hitomi! Hitomi…" Yukari shook her desperately.
"Wh-what? Yukari?"
"I…Amano and I came to see you. The front door was unlocked and when we came in you were having some nightmare." Oh no. "Yelling someone's name…" Yukari continued. Double oh no. How much did she hear? "Hitomi, I need to know who this Van person is." Hitomi flushed and looked at her hands. Might as well tell her…
"You know that guy we were talking about…?"
"Oh," Yukari said. "Hitomi, you got to learn to let these things go, y'know." Hitomi looked up sharply, her normally gentle eyes flashing green sparks.
"No! I'll never let Van go!" Yukari backed away.
"Hitomi—you're different now—what happened that day you stayed after school a year ago? You've changed…"
"Yukari," Hitomi said, exerting control to keep her voice calm, "things have changed—"
"Not enough for you to become so—strange! Hitomi, you never smile as much either! When you do, it's always as if it's for someone else who doesn't exist! And you just ignore everything, sit there dreaming—I saw you in calc, you were asleep, then you woke up and gave the damn right answer! What's wrong?"
"I fell in love," Hitomi said through gritted teeth. "Why don't you leave, Yukari?" Yukari smiled bitterly, angry tears beginning to form.
"Fine. I don't think we'll be talking again. Goodbye, Kanzaki Hitomi." She turned and stalked away.
"Hitomi—is something wrong?" Amano asked her. He was worried; after Yukari had met him outside in tears, obviously something was wrong—if only Hitomi would tell him…
"Nothing is wrong, Amano," Hitomi said quietly, clenching her hands. "But I think you should leave too, before I lose it totally and start throwing things at you." Amano nodded, giving her that charming smiled she'd always adored. It's not Van's smile…she thought wistfully, remembering his slow and rare grin—something he'd often saved for her—and her alone…
"If you need to talk, I'm always here. I'll talk to Yukari for you, if you want."
"Thanks, Amano," Hitomi mumbled. She wiped her eyes and went to brew some tea to drink. Oh, Van…
******************
"LORD VAAAAAN!!!!" Ariel shrieked, throwing herself on the King.
Van hugged her back, but he gasped, "Air—" Ariel released her grip on him, and as she did, something gold flickered in the sunlight. Van grabbed her hand.
"Oh—uh…" Ariel quickly hid her hand behind her.
"Who is it?" Van asked, delighted for his friend.
"Ruku," she said, breathless and flustered.
"That's wonderful!" Van exclaimed. "Lord Van…about Hitomi…" Ariel mumbled slowly. Van stiffened.
"Yes?" he said tightly.
"You miss her a lot, don't you?"
Van nodded, a quick drop of his chin, biting his lip.
"I—uh…oh, never mind…" Ariel looked away.
"Where's Ruku now?" Van said.
"Here," Ruku said, coming from the shadows. The dog-boy had grown lean and strong, his tuft of red hair fell in a curly pile over his eyes, and he brushed it aside impatiently. Ariel smiled at him as he took her hand. "Majesty," Ruku bowed.
"No titles," Van muttered. "Please," he added.
"Whatever you say—Van," Ruku smiled. "Whatever happened to your lady?" he added, though he knew very well—he had been there, after all. Van sighed.
"We sent her back. We've been keeping in touch though." Ruku looked at the King in awe, marveling at his ability to bear such a loss—especially one of such a lovely, talented young woman. Ruku was wrong. Inside, Van was being torn up.
*******************
Somewhere in the lands beyond…
'Folken-sama!' Eriya called. She ran to him, her arms full of wildflowers. Folken turned, planting a kiss on her cheek as he did. 'Hello, dearest,' he said softly. We're finally reunited, he thought with an inner smile, even if we are dead, we are together. 'Where's Naria?' Eriya asked. 'You're dumping me for her?' Folken teased. Eriya slapped his hand playfully. 'No, silly, I just don't want her near you when we…' 'When we what?' Folken asked, though he knew very well. Eriya kissed him, blushing. 'Come on,' she said, and pulled him off.
*******************
Hitomi woke slowly. The cool spring breeze stirred her short hair. "Folken is happy," she said. Oh Van…I wish… "Hitomi?" Amano asked. Hitomi turned her head. "Hi, Amano. How's Yukari?"
"Fine," Amano acknowledged, "but she's not going to speak to you. You do realize that, don't you?" Hitomi nodded sadly.
"Yes. But I'm not going to apologize—"
"Hitomi, is there still anything you'd want to talk about?" Amano said. Hitomi sighed. She needed to get it out.
"Swear you won't tell anyone, or think I'm crazy?" she said.
Amano watched her intently as he answered, "I swear." Hitomi smiled, and this time it was for him, the first real smile he'd seen her wear in months.
"Good. Okay…" she took a deep breath and began. "You know that day you asked Yukari out for the first time?" Amano nodded. "Well…I was practicing on track and…Amano, would you believe me if I said there were other worlds besides this one?" Amano nodded again, not really believing, but he wanted to hear what she was going to say. "I was Summoned to a place called Gaea—I met a guy named Van…" The sun began to set as she continued with her narrative. "…and then he sent me back," she finished. It was late. Amano nodded—the way she'd described everything, and the proof she'd had—he half believed her. But—it wasn't possible…or was it?
"I want more than anything to go back. Say, Amano?" she turned to him as she made her decision. "Tell my family, especially Keji, that I love them—my dad, too, and tell Yukari I am sorry that I yelled at her—and I'll always like you as a friend…I love you all…but I need to go…" Amano smiled, and nodded for the twentieth time.
"I understand, Hitomi."
"Hey, keep an eye out for me, okay?" Hitomi said softly, "I might come back here—to check on you guys…you'll always see me…when you dream…goodbye, Amano." She hugged him and stepped away quickly. "I can tell you don't really believe me," Hitomi murmured. "But I'm going to prove you wrong."
She'd taken Van's feathers out to show Amano. Hitomi raised one above her head. Please take me back to Gaea… "Take me back!" she yelled. Van…I'm coming back now…I love you…take me back…
******************
At that exact moment, Van was standing alone on the balcony. He gripped the Sword hilt tightly, remembering the day she'd slapped him—and smiled sadly. I'd let you slap me every day, if you just came back… Hitomi…I'll do anything…
******************
Folken turned to Eriya. 'Take my hand,' he said gently. Eriya took it without a question. Folken closed his eyes and hummed a song in his head. 'I wish for Van to be happy—I wish for Hitomi to return to him…'
*****************
Amano gasped and pointed. Hitomi looked up and a broad grin spread across her delicate features. A steady pillar of blue light began to slide slowly down from the heavens—her ticket to Gaea. "Amano—tell everyone—" Hitomi cried, "—I'll miss you all—" The light enveloped her and she vanished.
*****************
Van sighed. It would never happen. She probably didn't want to return. He considered slashing his wrists right then and there; at the moment, bleeding to death didn't seem like such a bad option. His shoulders shook. She doesn't love me. He remembered, bitterly…
"I'll—miss…you, Van," she said softly. "You're a…good friend." She hesitated with her words. Van smiled unhappily and thought, Miss me, only? Just a friend…huh. Was that the kiss of a friend?
Van snorted. "Humph. If I was meant to be unhappy for the rest of my damned life couldn't I have been unhappy with her?" It's because she's probably out there being happy with some other guy. Hitomi's too nice to go unnoticed. Just then he noticed something—shouts and screams from the city below. "What the—" Van looked out sharply and gasped. A steady blue column of light was descending from the sky, rapidly fading. His heart leapt into his throat. Hitomi?!
"Van!!" Gaddis pounded across the marble floor. "Van—did you just see—" Van nodded swiftly. "You stay here, Gaddis, I'll go find out what it is." Gaddis saw that though the King was keeping his voice deceptively calm, the rest of him was shaking with excitement. "Van—maybe we should—" Van cracked his wings from his back, ignoring him. "Van, wait—"
"Shut up, Gaddis, I know what I'm doing!" Van sprang from the balcony, beating his wings powerfully as he shot toward the source of the light.
He wanted to shout her name—it must be her—it had to be— "Hitomi," he murmured, urging himself onward.
********************
Hitomi shuddered as she dissolved into the light. She shut her eyes tightly as she was pulled toward Gaea—smiling. "Van…I'm coming back now…" She remembered his face—when he was angry—when he was grinning…the anguish in his voice when he spoke of Fanelia…the blaze of his gray eyes…and the envious protective way he acted when she talked about other men… "The power of wishes…" Hitomi muttered. Her grandmother had told her something about wishes—how they could change the world. Hitomi smiled as she remembered her grandmother—who's sparkling green eyes always seemed to be somewhere else. It was her grandmother who'd first introduced the idea that other worlds in alternate dimensions existed.
Then she was there, thrown roughly upon a carpet of lush grass, shaded by gigantic trees, their leaves brushing up against her skin. Note to self, she said silently, beginning to smile, work on landings. The place sparkled with dew and sunlight—she breathed in deeply, feeling the moisture that hung in the air. It's—so beautiful… Hitomi rose to her feet, walking cautiously toward the source of the sunlight. It was a deep forest, quiet and radiant in the late morning sun. Hitomi came to a clearing and gave a small sob. It was Folken's tomb—the place where Van had sent her back. The Escaflowne sat, unmoving, in guymelef form, besides the marble building, its energist glowing next to it, sheltered by the grass. Flowers had sprung up, vivid and wild, growing alongside the building. Hitomi knelt by the inscription on Folken's grave, plucking a handful of flowers from the ground beside her and placing them across it. She was suddenly aware of the cracking noise of someone approaching. Whoever it was wasn't taking the care to be quiet; they stumbled over logs and crushed both leaves and twigs in their haste. Hitomi scrambled to her feet, running into the shelter of the trees ringing the tomb.
Van bashed the branches away with his wings, sprinting toward the forest clearing. Faster, he had to go faster. His breathing was quick, and the blood burned in his veins— He exploded into the clearing and collapsed in disappointment and exhaustion. She wasn't there. Nothing was there but the tomb and the Escaflowne. Van buried his head in his arms and wept with frustration. She's gone. Never going to see her again. Never. Never. Never. He let the tears fall from his face into the grass unashamedly. What was the point of hiding it anymore? She wasn't ever coming back. Never. Van rose, shaking with fatigue, anger, and sadness—he reached for his Sword—considering whether or not to end the pain. "VAN!" someone cried—then he was bowled over by someone—something. All he knew was he was being squeezed to death by some laughing, crying creature—something with dark brown hair and soulful emerald eyes—not a creature at all, but a girl—and she was—
"Hitomi?" Van said, in quiet disbelief. He peered at her face. "Hitomi!" he yelled, throwing his arms around her and pulling her closer into his embrace. He hugged her to him, smiling so hard he thought his cheeks would burst. "Hitomi, you came back—Hitomi…" Hitomi buried her head in his shoulder. "Oh, Van…" she said, beginning to cry, "Van…I missed you—I really…" Van sat up and touched her cheek with his fingertips, wiping her tears away. "Hitomi," was all he could say. Hitomi scrubbed at her eyes, smiling at him. "I couldn't stay away from you—and the others—" "Good thing, too," Van said seriously, "I was considering slitting my own throat." Hitomi stared at him, her eyes wide. "Oh, Van—I would never forgive myself if you—" Van took her hand and kissed it with swift grace. "Gaddis taught me," he announced proudly. Hitomi flushed. "Come on, I'll get you to the palace, show you around—get you a room, some clothing…" Van trailed off as he looked into Hitomi's eyes and got lost. She broke the spell by getting off him quickly. "I must weight much more than Ariel—how could you stand me?" Van grinned, a cheeky, impudent grin that she wanted to bask in forever. "You're pretty ligh—" he cut his last word off and said again, "because you're beautiful." Hitomi blushed even more.
"Van!"
"Oh, but it's true," Van whispered, gathering her into his arms and leaping off the ground.
They flew over the city at a brisk pace; Van had forgotten all his tiredness, but was flying slower to give Hitomi a chance to see the view. She stared down, awed. "This—is Fanelia? Oh, Van, it's beautiful!" she breathed. Indeed it was. The river sparkled like a jewel, flowing in a curve midst the houses. There were people outside, a bazaar in the east, and to the north—the palace! It was ivory, like the Escaflowne, tall spires up in the sky and green flags fluttering from them.
"Like it?" Van asked. Hitomi smiled.
"You know I do," she said.
"They—my people—don't know it's me. Want to give them a scare?" Van said, a mischievous glint in his eyes.
"What do you mean?" Hitomi whispered.
"Okay—" Van explained his scheme, "I need you to scream as loud as you can, for as long as you can. Got it? I'll tell you when to stop."
Hitomi grinned, opening her mouth, but before she started, she said, "If I deafen you, don't say I didn't warn you." Hitomi screamed. Van gave a huge laugh, swooping lower so that the townspeople got a look at him.
"Gods save us—mercy!" someone shrieked.
"'Tis a Draconian! And he's got someone!" a man yelled, panic stricken.
"Poor lass—" another man remarked.
"Draconian—an attack—gods!"
A huge crowd gathered, watching the Draconian in the sky with Hitomi. Van chuckled; he clamped a hand securely over her mouth to stop her. She gasped, then took a deep, deep breath, replacing lost air.
"Now watch this," Van smiled. He dove towards the people with a roar. The crowd scattered, screaming. Van swooped up, flying fast and furious to the palace.
"Why the hurry?" Hitomi asked.
"One, you're probably exhausted with all this screaming," Van tickled her shoulder with the tip of his wing. "Two, I see one man running over to tell the King that there's an evil Draconian rampant who's kidnapping innocent girls."
"I assure you, I'm anything but innocent," Hitomi laughed. Van smiled again—it was good to hear her laugh.
The King landed on the palace balcony and retracted his wings with a small grimace. He grasped her hand and led her into the palace, explaining what had happened like an eager child. On the way they met Terci, who was carrying a basket of—what else—fresh sheets. When the servant girl saw them she dropped the sheets with a small shriek.
"Terci, get a guest room prepared for Hitomi," Van ordered. "Oh, and the man who claims there are Draconians around must be suffering from heat exhaustion and delusion. Send him off." Terci tried not to stare at the newcomer. Was it even a girl? The person's hair was so short! And her clothing… She obeyed and scurried off, hastily folding the sheets. Who was this girl? It seemed the King knew her somehow—
"What could be taking Van so long?" Celena demanded. "He said he'd spar with you—he was supposed to be here an hour ago!"
"I think our answer is here," Gaddis replied, smiling at his impatient younger sister. Merla nodded. He turned back to look at the King and squinted. "Hey—is that someone else with him? Is it—no—by the gods! Hitomi, you've returned!" Gaddis shouted.
"Gaddis!" Hitomi exclaimed. "Oh, it's wonderful to see you!" Van watched, slightly jealous, but he knew Gaddis was married and was therefore no real threat. Hitomi waited for him to catch up with her.
"So this is the Tsbasi no Kami?" Celena asked. Van nodded, jubilantly planting a kiss on Hitomi's cheek. "It's nice to meet you, Hitomi!" Celena curtsied daintily, smiling. Hitomi bowed.
"Gaddis, is it okay that we skip this session—I've got to disappoint another princess," Van said with a grin. Gaddis nodded, an equally cheeky smile lighting up his face.
"The last one tried to hit on me, after you dumped her," he added. "How 'bout we pick this spar up later, when it's not so hot?"
"Yes, I need to get out of this," Merla smiled, lifting her sleeve to show its heavy velvet fabric. "I never did like this dress." Gaddis pretended to sulk.
"Hey, I bought it for you—"
"—when you thought I was fat, love." Merla interrupted. All five—Van, Hitomi, Gaddis, Celena, and Merla—laughed.
****************
"Where is his Majesty Van Fanel?" Princess Wyera demanded. Her long purple hair was arranged neatly for the meeting with her betrothed.
"His Majesty is out sparring with a Knight of Caeli, Gaddis Schezar," Lord Siel informed her hastily.
"Why is he not here?" Wyera said. "Surely a swordfight is not as important."
"Ah, but Lord Van intends to keep his promises."
Van strolled in, followed by Celena, Gaddis, Merla, and Hitomi. While Celena, Merla, and Gaddis stood directly behind him, Hitomi lingered a few feet away, unsure. "Lord Van," Siel bowed, looked nervously at his King. Van sent him a look that meant, 'I'll handle this.'
"King Van," Wyera curtsied deeply, eyeing the Caeli Knight behind him with open scorn.
"Princess—ah…your name?" Van said, taking her hand and kissing it with the smooth grace that Gaddis had taught him.
"Wyera, milord," Wyera said, in a voice so sweet it was sickening to Van's ears. "We will be married in a month, my father says," she added.
"Princess Wyera—I'm sorry, but I've already got a commitment to—ah…I've already quite a few problems—and I have a commitment to go and solve them. Marriage really will get in the way." Wyera could have sworn the King was about to say he already had a sweetheart. She looked at the small, silver- haired child behind him. Too young. Now the other girl was something to be considered. She had such short hair and such strange clothing—how could the King consider her beautiful?
"But father's already thought of that. He promises you an alliance with Daedalus and—"
"Princess Wyera, in my country we marry for love and not for power, or alliances," Van interrupted.
"But Lord Van, who else could there possibly be for you?" Wyera said innocently. Van glanced at Hitomi and took a deep breath. Dare I make the jump? It's now or never. Damn, but I love her. Go to it, Fanel. He went and pulled her near to him, wrapping one arm around her shoulders. "Hitomi—is here for me," he said softly. Hitomi gasped, then blushed.
"Lord Van!" Siel exclaimed in horror. Gaddis smiled—Celena beamed—and Merla clapped. Wyera froze in absolute anger.
"But she is not of royal blood! I can tell! How can you love—"
"Two things, my dear princess," Van said icily, "One, never insult Hitomi in front of me—if you were a man I would have challenged you already. Two, my mother was not of royal blood and she married my father—Fanelia prospered. For love, don't you understand?" Hitomi reddened more.
"Van…maybe this isn't the right time…" Siel winced when she did not address him as King Van. Van glared at the Daedalian Princess.
"Princess Wyera, as King of Fanelia, I formally reject your offer of marriage." Wyera made a small growl as she exited in a flounce of petticoats. If I can't have him, or his country, she won't either!
Hitomi buried her head in Van's shirt to conceal her red face. He was red, too, but he stroked her hair, feeling very awkward as the Schezars beamed in the background.
"Lord Van, how can you—you don't even know this girl! I know you were desperate to rid yourself of further marriage proposals, but grabbing a girl from the streets and asking her to pose as your sweetheart is just too much—" Siel cried, waving his arms.
"Siel," Van said quietly, "look at her." Siel looked and gasped.
"But—that is the Goddess!! My gods! Lord Van, why didn't you ever tell me? I could have broken every single marriage proposal sent your way since they started!" Van smiled at his advisor.
"That's nice of you," he chuckled. "But it's a bit late for all that. I think you'll try to halt them in the future, right? And get your colleagues to agree." Siel nodded vigorously.
"Oh, yes, sire!"
"Come on, then, Hitomi," Van said, and pulled her from the room. "Van!" she cried, the moment they were from the throne room, "do you really mean it?"
"Hitomi," Van said. "I wanted to tell you—I was just afraid during the Destiny War—I was afraid Folken would steal you away, and I'd lose you, like everyone else. I was afraid you wouldn't return…that you were in love with someone else…But I'll tell you now. Hitomi…I…love you. I think I've always loved you—since the day you slapped me, at any rate." He looked anxiously at her face.
"Van…" Hitomi said, blushing. "I—I've missed you so much—and I realized—that…somewhere along the way…I—fell in love with you…Van…and I was just too stupid to realize…" She wrapped her arms around his neck. Van grabbed his chance and just grazed her lips with his. She squeaked in surprise, then pulled his head down for a second kiss.
Awww…isn't that sweet…
Do you want a sequel for Escaflowne? Just Hitomi getting back, and perhaps a new threat? I was watching it yesterday…Van is such an idiot for not realizing his feelings…
They make a cute couple.
The Day the Angel Flew is my favorite episode. It's also the last one I taped before Fox Kids took the show off the air.