Hi!! Chapter 7! Just read! Oops. Disclaimer.
Um…I don't own Escaflowne.
Back to Asturia
[pic]
There was a knock on the door of Van's bedroom. He stirred, removing his arms from around a sleeping Hitomi's waist. "What do you want?" he demanded with a yawn. Gaddis opened the door cautiously.
"What were you two doing?" he asked, with a trace of a smile. Van flushed.
"Nothing."
"Well, seeing that you both still have your clothing on—" Van's face became redder "—I guess you weren't doing anything."
"What do you want?" Van asked again.
"That princess Wyera is giving Siel a hard time about your refusal—I suggest you go down and figure out a way to talk to her before she starts coming at me. You know I'm already taken. Gods, I hope that witch knows too." Van laughed.
"Tell him to just send her off, don't talk to her anymore. Oh—and Gaddis—do you think you could arrange for a regent sometime?" Gaddis raised an eyebrow questioningly, but didn't ask. He left to check on Celena.
Hitomi smiled in her sleep. Van stood over her and waited for her to wake up. "You're feeling better now, right?" he asked. That had been her excuse.
"Van—I don't feel so good," Hitomi said quietly, through the door. Van opened it hesitantly. "Siel will think this is scandalous," he grinned. "Anything to freak them out." Hitomi smiled at his adoption of one of her Mystic Moon phrases. "I know…but I just don't want to sleep alone tonight," she murmured. She stared up at him, giving him sad green eyes. Van just about melted. He sighed, running his hands through his tousled black hair to make it stand on end. "Okay, but don't you dare try anything—absolutely nothing will happen—between us," Van growled in mock- anger. "Oh…well…I suppose…" Hitomi looked up at him through her lashes. She nodded. "Fine, I guess." Hitomi laughed. "Anything to be near you, Van." Van grinned. "I'm irresistible, aren't I?" Hitomi stuck her tongue out at him. "None of your cheek," she smiled. They both laughed, and Van shut the door.
Hitomi opened one eye. "You know I was lying, Van Fanel," she said. Van gathered her into his arms and gave her a kiss. "Yeah—but I wanted to make sure." Hitomi giggled. Then gasped. "Wh-what are you doing?" she asked as Van cracked his wings from his back and lifted her. "I'm taking you somewhere," he said with a boyish grin. "We could have some…" he leaned close to her ear, "…fun." Hitomi blushed. "Van!" "Couldn't resist," he said, throwing the window open and leaping out. Hitomi smiled, and he bent his head and kissed her.
*****************
Yukari dreamed of Hitomi that night. 'Hitomi!' Yukari called, running out on a windy plain. She saw her best-friend running to a winged boy and laughing with him. She saw him lift Hitomi up into the air and fly off to a palace. She saw them kiss. Yukari smiled. 'Gee. I really didn't believe you…and…oh, Hitomi, I'm sorry!' Hitomi appeared suddenly. 'Hi, Yukari,' she said. Yukari gave her a hug. 'So you're finally happy, huh?' she said. Hitomi nodded, looking at her friend. 'Yes. Are you and Amano—' Hitomi paused as Yukari held up her hand and showed her a gold band. 'Just yesterday,' she said. Hitomi nodded again, and smiled as she said, 'I saw it when you asked me to read your future. I'll visit you again. But right now I think Van wants to talk to me…' 'Hitomi—Van's royalty, isn't he? I saw a palace earlier. Hitomi grinned. 'Yeah. Look, I've got to go now—Van wants me to wake up, I guess—" "Hitomi, you'll come back, one day—right?" Yukari asked. Hitomi looked at her shoes. 'Well…Yukari—I don't know…but we'll see each other again, soon.'
*****************
'Hi, Amano,' Hitomi said. Amano looked at her in awe. She stood beside a boy who resembled an angel, only he carried a Sword. 'This is Van,' she said. Van smiled and bowed. Amano imitated him, dropping his hand back down to his side. He had meant to give the boy a handshake. 'I just talked to Yukari. Van and I are going on a little trip,' she added. 'Hitomi…' Van caressed the back of her neck his fingers. 'Yeah, well, anyway…we've got to leave now. Goodbye, Amano. Don't worry, I'll talk to you again. Tell Yukari I miss her—and my family. If they think you're insane—give them this, okay?' She handed him one of her socks. It was white, with Yukari's signature across the material. 'But this—your lucky sock—you wear it on your meets and everything—' 'They'll know it's from me,' Hitomi said firmly, pressing the sock into his hand. 'It doesn't stink—I promise! I'll talk to you again, sometime.' Van bowed again. 'I'll take care of her, Amano-san—I give you my word. Arigato.' Amano smiled. 'Goodbye, Hitomi—King Van.' Van looked surprised as the two faded away.
Amano woke. In his left hand he clutched a white sock with a faded signature on it. He leapt up, shouting in amazement, and ran, as fast as his legs would carry him, to Yukari's home. This is amazing! Dream projection and sending things through dreams! This is a magnificent scientific discovery! "Yukari—look—" Yukari opened the door, rubbing her eyes. "It's from Hitomi—" Amano panted excitedly. "Come on, we've got to tell her mother and brother—"
*****************
Van and Hitomi woke simultaneously beside each other under the shade of a few trees by the Fanelian River. He gave her a small kiss. "You're finished talking to them, right?"
"I've just got to tell Keji where I've gone," Hitomi answered. "But I think he's out right now with mom."
"Good. Do you think Gaddis would like to be King for a while?" Van asked.
"Why?"
"I'm thinking of taking you on a 'little trip,'" Van replied. "To see all the countries, have a few adventures…without the usual junk that comes with the bowing and waving and so on."
Hitomi smiled. "That would be fun."
"Great," Van grinned. "But my wings are pretty sore from carrying a heavy girl like you around." He dodged the punch she threw at him, laughing.
"So we'll walk?"
"And ride. We can visit the old animal villages, see Princess Aeries in Asturia, go to Freid and scare old Aravis to death…you know what I'm getting at?"
"Like a honeymoon?" Hitomi asked.
"What's that?"
"It's after people get married; they go on these trips," Hitomi said, then blushed.
"We'll consider this a pre-marriage honeymoon, no?" Van said. "Fine by me," Hitomi laid her head on his shoulder.
"Perfect—we'll go back and tell Gaddis, and Lord Siel can be regent—he's good at that sort of thing, I know he will make a good ruler for my people—only for a while, mind you—then Gaddis, Merla, and Celena can come with us. You know what? We could take the Scherazade. It could be just like old times, just without all the visions and death-threats, jails and battles."
"Just like the old times," Hitomi repeated. "We aren't that old, are we, Van?"
"You're seventeen and so am I. Yup, we're a bunch of oldsters." He grinned impudently and grabbed her hand, pulling her along behind her. "That's just fine with me, though! Here, I know a place further down the river—ice cold water, perfect for a bath, don't you think?"
"Oh no, Van—hey, wait! I don't want to—" she yelled, but ran alongside him. The sun shone down on the couple as they ran across the outskirts of the city.
***************
Wyera grumbled to her advisor, "I don't know what he saw in that wench! But you can be sure, Mckael, that I will get even!" "They are leaving for Asturia at first light," Mckael supplied. "Good. Get my men to it. They know what to do," Wyera smiled evilly. Hitomi, or whatever they call you, you're in for a big surprise!
***************
"Ready for take-off!" Evanl yelled.
"Okay! Unfurl the sails! Activate levistones! Here we go!" Gaddis shouted.
"Again," Merla sighed, leaning her head on her husband's shoulder. Van stood behind them on deck with Hitomi, squeezing her hand.
"Hey," Celena called, running up to be with them. "Get a room, you two!" Van and Hitomi both blushed furiously as Ariel and Ruku, newlyweds, came up to tease them. Onward, Van thought, I've got my love, I couldn't be more happy. When we get back I propose…for now, a new adventure—for all of us. Hitomi tilted her head up and repaid all his short kisses with a long, tender one.
*******************
"I've explained it to you, my Dark Warriors," Wyera hissed. "Is there anything that I must clarify?" Three ninjas bowed and answered in a single voice, "No, m'lady." "Then carry out my mission—you will be richly rewarded." "Yes, m'lady. We will obey." They sprang up and vanished, like shadow wraiths. Wyera smiled harshly. "Bye, bye, Hitomi!" she cackled.
*******************
"King Van—Lady Hitomi!" Aeries exclaimed. "Princess Aeries," Van said, bowing. "Gaddis—Celena—Merla—it is wonderful to see you!" She squeezed her sister's hand. Van noted that the nine-year old had grown much taller in the past year. He also noticed there was someone behind her. "King Van, I presume," the boy said. "Chid!" Merla cried, hugging the little boy. Van looked closely at the child. He was around ten or eleven, with straight golden hair that fell to his waist—like Gaddis. Chid's eyes were unusually blue—also like Gaddis. He wore a black beret which flopped over one of his eyes, giving him a roguish air. Chid carried himself in a manner that resembled Gaddis exactly. Van eyed the Knight of Caeli beside him and saw Gaddis was extremely uncomfortable, for some reason. Van remembered Duke Aravis, with his thin dark handlebar mustache and his dark eyes. Marlene—Merla's elder sister, and Chid's mother—who had passed away many a year ago—had had blonde hair and brown eyes—
Such blue eyes had to be a trait— But only the Schezars—Gaddis, Celena—possessed such eyes. And Chid's eyes were only possible if—
Gaddis had noticed Van's eyes boring into him and looked swiftly away. :Van,: Hitomi said softly in Van's mind.
:Hmm?:
:Have you noticed—Chid looks an awful lot like—:
:Gaddis? I noticed, love.:
Hitomi flushed as Van referred to her as 'love.' Chid took Hitomi's hand and kissed it with casual grace that seemed to have been inherited from someone else. "Lady Hitomi," he said smoothly, in a manner that made him seem many years older. "A thousand apologies from my father, Duke Aravis, to both you and the King of Fanelia." "We've forgiven him ages ago," Merla smiled. "Cousin Merla—it's a pleasure to see you!" he said, forgetting all rules and throwing his arms around her to repay her earlier hug.
Van wrapped one arm around Hitomi's shoulders comfortingly. Chid seems like Gaddis in both looks and manner, he thought to himself, could it be possible that Chid is related to Gaddis in some way? Hitomi sensed his feelings and reached up to hold the hand that was around her shoulders. She stared into his eyes… Both heard Gaddis clear his throat loudly. "Ahem—" Van dropped his hand to his side, flushing. Hitomi looked at her sandals.
Chid eyed the couple quizzically. "You, Lord, and the Seeress from the Mystic Moon?" Van nodded, reddening even more. "I heard from my father that your love conquered the spell of the War God and destroyed the evils of the Dark Dragons," Chid said simply. Hitomi covered her red face with her hands. :Van—I—:
Van nodded. "I guess you could say that."
There was an uneasy silence, which Chid broke by saying brightly, "We're holding a feast today; I'll actually get to eat—" "—you haven't seen him eat yet—" Aeries said. "—this time—" Chid threw a look at the Asturian princess "—instead of you scoffing everything." Aeries stuck her lower lip out, slapping Chid's arm in mock-anger. "Humph—but you haven't seen Lord Van at it, have you, Chid?" she said. Van played along, acting nervous.
"Ah—maybe you shouldn't tell them…"
"He eats more than a dragon," Hitomi supplied. She glanced at the King and laughed. :Van, stop making faces—your face might fall off!:
Van stopped quickly. :Would it really?: he sent back. Hitomi grinned, shaking her head. "Fooled you," she said aloud. Chid looked at Merla, questioning. "They have a mind-link," Merla whispered to him. Chid had no knowledge of mind-links, but he nodded. "I see." "Well, let's not just stand here, come on! Father will be very pleased to see all of you; it's been so long!" Aeries said, grabbing her sister's hands.
***************
"Van, I don't know how to dance! How on earth do they expect me to attend some dinner ball or whatever they call it?!" Hitomi wailed. Van eyed her, amused. "I could teach you." Wild hope lit up her eyes. "Really? Teach me, and I'm yours forever—" she gasped and stopped. Forever… Van thought longingly. He forced himself to voice his other thoughts. "Um…about that, Hitomi—" She looked at him. "—uh…are you going to return to the Moon of Illusions?" Hitomi swallowed as he continued. "Because if you are…Hitomi—I think you should try to forget about me…I don't want to get close to you if you're only going to go back again…" Van had been expecting a reaction—he got one. Hitomi drew a deep breath, her cheeks flushing angrily and said, "Van—how could you even—I love you, Van—but now—" she smacked his cheek with a force that sent his head to the side. "I don't ever want to see your damn butt again!" she stumbled from him and ran away. Van was shocked; Hitomi had always been so careful about cursing—and now… Van groaned, turning and walking slowly down another staircase within the castle. You've blown it again, Fanel.
He met up with Gaddis along the way. "What's with you?" Gaddis asked. "None of your business," Van snarled, jamming his balled fists into his pockets and trying to push past. "Well, I could guess," Gaddis said, with a hint of a smile. "Your whole right cheek is covered by a very red hand- print—you look hurt, and since you're not with Hitomi, I'm guessing that you two had a fight." "Nothing happened," Van practically yelled. "Then explain the hand-print," Gaddis folded his arms and began to tap his foot. Van's tough attitude shattered. "I…told her…that if she was going…going back—I wasn't going to get close to her—I didn't…want my heart broken again…or hers, for that matter…" he said hoarsely. "I see," Gaddis said. "Let me guess again. You said that, she slapped you, then ran away." "How do you—" "I've had experience, you've forgotten," Gaddis winked knowingly. "Now what do I—" "You wait," Gaddis said. "Just go back to your room and wait." Van looked at the older man uncertainly. "Whatever you say—Commander," he added. Gaddis smiled. "Those were fun days—I almost wish for another war, just so I can battle again."
*************
Van lay on his bed, his head buried in the white goose-feather pillow. Just wait, huh? For what? Hitomi isn't like all the other girls—she's from a whole different planet…how does he know I'm not the one who's supposed to apologize—
He was interrupted as the door opened timidly. "Er…Van…?" Hitomi whispered. Van didn't lift his head, but said, "Come back to yell at me, huh." "No, Van…" Van raised his head a fraction. "Then what are you here for?" He looked at her. She was a mess; her short hair was tangled, her eyes red-rimmed, and her clothing wrinkled. "Van—please don't be mad at me…I'm really sorry—Van?" Van buried his head again. "Van—talk to me! Please, don't do this…" Van ignored her, still hurting. "Van…I'm sorry…I'm sorry…please, Van…" she sobbed. Van could sense her emotions, her nerves stretched to the breaking point, and she was totally sincere—completely sorry. He shook his head, the movement small in the all enveloping white of the pillow. :Van! God Van, talk to me…please…talk to me…: Van blocked her out. "Van!" Hitomi cried, her voice, already raw, breaking. She broke down completely, collapsing to the ground in a fit of near hysterical tears. Van leapt up, alarmed. "Dammit, what have I done—" he cursed, running to her side.
"Hitomi…shh…" he raised her gently, pulling her into his arms. She didn't stop sobbing, her whole body shaking. Van stroked her hair…her cheek, the back of her neck, he hugged her close to him. "Hitomi…don't cry…shh…I'm sorry…please don't cry…" Hitomi buried her head in his chest, trying to control herself, but in vain. Tears soaked the front of Van's shirt—Hitomi sunk down into his lap, crying uncontrollably. "Hitomi—" Van said, even more fearful. She sobbed his name, her face white and strained, then went limp. "Hitomi? Hitomi!" Van cried. She didn't stir. Van rose, carrying her carefully to his bed and tucking her in. He traced her cheek with his fingers before running out. "Gaddis, get up here—bring Merla!" he yelled.
"Van, I am so sorry—I didn't know…" Gaddis mumbled. "Not your fault. Just make sure she's okay," Van turned to Merla. "She's just exhausted herself and made herself sick with worry. Stay by her, if she gets feverish or delirious call me right away. Otherwise, she should be fine by tomorrow. And Van Fanel, I suggest you apologize first thing," Merla said curtly, and swept out angrily, her skirts swirling around her sandals.
***************
Van stayed by Hitomi's side for the rest of the afternoon. Gaddis stopped by twice—once, to bring him lunch, twice to talk with him. "I'm sorry," he said again. "Dammit, Gaddis, I already told you it wasn't your fault!" Van hissed. "I told you to wait…" Gaddis insisted. "I waited longer than I was supposed to," Van interrupted. Gaddis looked at his hands. "Van…about Chid…" Van didn't look at the Knight of Caeli. "Chid—he—Chid doesn't look like his father, does he?" Gaddis blurted out. "Aravis? No," Van said slowly. "He wouldn't look like M-Marlene is she were still alive either…right?" Gaddis continued miserably. "Maybe. But not her eyes," Van realized what Gaddis was getting at. "I—well…Aravis isn't really Chid's father. I am." Van looked up. "What?" "Marlene and I were lovers," Gaddis explained in a voice that was barely audible. "When King Aston found out, he exiled me to an outpost on the borders of Asturia. Marlene had a son and then died…" Van nodded, "Go on." "…I met Merla three years ago," Gaddis said, "she was so much like her sister…I couldn't help it and I—" "—fell in love with her—" "Yes," Gaddis nodded. "I'm sure she's noticed the similarities…Gods, I want to tell her but I—"
"—don't have to," Merla interrupted. She held up a book. Gaddis recognized it. It was Marlene's diary. "Gaddis, I already knew you had loved my sister," she said. "Father told me before I decided to run off with you. He warned me not to do anything rash 'because this Schezar fellow is a rascal who doesn't know what the word faithful means.' I didn't believe him…not until I saw Chid…then I knew…" "Merla—" Gaddis began. "You proved Father wrong. And even he admits it." "Merla—I—" Gaddis tried again. "I'm not angry with you. Marlene was beautiful. You were perfect for each other." "But, Merla…" "And now you're perfect for me, even if you used to love my sister. I still love you, Gaddis Schezar—you're my husband, whether you like it or not. But I think it's best that we don't tell Chid." She played with one of his golden locks. "Merla…" Gaddis said tenderly. Van cleared his throat with an equally loud, 'ahem' as Gaddis had earlier. "If you two are going to—" he chose another of Hitomi's phrases, "—make out, then go somewhere else so I can watch over my lady love like the angel I am." The sarcasm in his voice rang out loudly on the last few words. Merla glanced at him sympathetically before she pulled Gaddis out with her.
"Hitomi—I'm sorry…" he murmured, reaching over to brush her hair from her face. And froze. Her forehead was hot. Too hot for his comfort. "Damn!!" Van swore. "Fever. Delirium. Gods…why the hell did I have to act the way I did?"
******************
"Excuse me," Chid said. Aeries beamed at him. "You made it! Great—now teach me that sword move, please!" Merla watched her young sister attack Chid ferociously with a wooden sword. "Careful—Aeries—y'don't want to—behead—me on—your first—lesson—now do—you—" Chid panted, trying to disarm her. "Hah!" Aeries cried, jabbing at him with her sword. Chid grabbed the wooden tip and pressed it into his jacket. Groaning and staggering about outrageously, the prince of Freid collapsed beneath a statue. "Ahh…you've killed me…" he moaned, then feigned unconsciousness. Aeries giggled, tapping his prone form with her foot. "Get up, Chid, I know you aren't dead." "…argh! No, I'm a zombie a- reborn ter a-haunt yer—raaaaaawwwwr!" Chid rose slowly, his arms in front of him. Aeries shrieked with laughter, running away. Chid gave chase. Merla felt a tentative tap on her shoulder. "Gaddis?" she turned, expecting to see the knight's face. Instead she saw Van, with an anxious, wild look on his face. "Merla—fever—delirious—" he gasped. Then, regaining some control, "I tried everything—the cold cloth…water…the fever's not breaking…" Merla rose quickly. "You should have called me earlier. Follow me, I'm going to need an assistant."
******************
Van led her to Hitomi's side, where the girl lay, her cheeks flushed with fever. "Dear gods—" Merla exclaimed. She held her hand over Hitomi's forehead gingerly and pulled it away. "Burning up." Merla tore a few strips of cloth from the sheets. "Go get me a bucket of cold water, Van," she ordered. Van hastened away to do it. He returned a moment later carrying a full wooden bucket. Merla dipped the cloth in, squeezing most of the water out. She arranged one carefully on Hitomi's forehead. Merla reached into her sash, pulling out the herbs that were never far from her. "Here. Use your Sword hilt to grind these up," she said, selecting two leaves—she also handed him a bowl. Van complied, hurriedly crushing them. Merla took the paste and poured some water into the bowl, stirring it with her finger. The water took on a greenish tinge. Van nearly gagged at the smell. "We're going to make her drink that?" he asked, wiping the Sword's hilt off. "You're going to make her drink it, aye, and drink it all," Merla said. Van sighed. "Hitomi…I'm sorry if this tastes really terrible…" He held the edge of the bowl to her lips, letting a trickle of the liquid go into her mouth. Hitomi sighed; she licked her lips. Van continued until the bowl was near empty. Merla replaced the cloth on Hitomi's head. "Just keep an eye on her. Change the clothes whenever they get dry. I'll get someone to bring you dinner." "Thank you—Princess Merla," Van said. Merla paused. "No. Lady Schezar. I'm no longer a princess. Besides, I've got Gaddis. We love each other. What happened before is behind us—we've got a bright future ahead." She smiled at him, patting his hand, and left.
Hitomi…please be all right when you wake up…I'm sorry…I'm sorry…I'm sorry…gods…I hope you don't hate me…
Hitomi opened her eyes slowly. Her head throbbed and she felt like she was going to be sick. There was a bitter taste in her mouth. Van's face, wild and apprehensive, swam into view. "Hitomi—" the relief in his voice was immense "—thank the gods you're all right—" "Van—" she was too exhausted to sob; her voice was the softest of whispers; she threw herself into his waiting arms and hung on like grim-death. Van stroked her hair. "I…I'm sorry…" she whispered, "…honest…I am…" "No…it was my fault, entirely…" Van murmured, running a finger down the side of her cheek. Hitomi smiled weakly at him. "That's…really nice of you…Van…" "Hitomi…" Van said, resting his face in her hair. :I'm so damn sorry, Hitomi. I really am…: :No…please…don't apologize…: :Love you,: Van sent. Hitomi's smile grew a little stronger. :I—: "Love you, too…but now…I think…I'm going to…sleep…again…" she gave a little sigh, nestling in his arms, and fell asleep.
*****************
"Okay, first—here, put your hand on my shoulder," Van instructed. He wrapped one arm around her waist, pulling her closer. "Now, step forward—backward…left, two steps right—spin, come back…repeat… Great—you did it, Hitomi!" Hitomi stopped dancing. "Really?" she breathed. Van nodded—blushing as Hitomi kissed his nose. She grinned, stepping away from him and whirling about in exuberance. "Yes! I did it! Haha!" "You'll save a dance for me, won't you?" Van smiled his wonderful smile at her and walked slowly down the hill. "Yes—of course I will—" Hitomi called.
Van broke into a dash. As he neared the gardens he found Gaddis. The young King grabbed the knight by the hands and pulled him into a quick dance. "She's saving a dance for me!" he exclaimed, after he'd released the very-dizzy Gaddis back onto the stone bench. "I'm…assuming 'she' is Hitomi, then," Gaddis muttered, trying to regain his breath. "Damn, of course it is," Van grinned. Gaddis smiled back.
****************
Hitomi waltzed down the opposite side of the hill, laughing. She met up with Celena—shivering in the shade of a tree. Celena clutched her head, whimpering at times. "Celena? Is something wrong?" Hitomi could clearly see something was. "He's back—" Celena gasped. "Who?" Hitomi asked gently. "Dilandau—my nemesis—my evil genius—oh…it's t-t-t-terrible…" Celena tried to smile but dissolved into tears. Hitomi took the younger girl into her arms. "Shh. It'll be all right. Don't worry. I'm sure it's nothing to be worried about, at any rate. Dilandau won't resurface…shh…" "Oh—but he—h-h-has…' Celena whispered. "I picked a sword up the other day and all of a sudden—I—was—seeing things—through his eyes—I could use a sword again—I could fight—I beat one of the men at the stables with it—I actually was going to kill—him—but I stopped at the last moment—I never could use a sword before!" she cried. "Then that's to your advantage," Hitomi insisted. Celena sobbed brokenly for a minute or two, then took control. "You're probably right," she said softly, "I'm just being paranoid." Hitomi gave the silver-haired girl her friendliest smile. "You should duel Van sometime. I'd like to see which of you is better." Celena's mouth twitched, and she began to cry again. Oh no, what did I say…? "That too," she sobbed, "I think about Van and I get all angry and I want to kill him—suddenly…I don't know why! Van's my friend!" "Put your foot down," Hitomi said. "Fight it. Show that Dilandau who's the boss around in your mind." Celena squared her jaw. "I can do it," she said, more to herself than to Hitomi. "I can do it. Thank you, Hitomi." Hitomi smiled again. "Don't mention it."
***************
"You want me to wear this!? Oh my god, you've got to be kidding! Tell me you're kidding, please—don't make me get into that—that—that disgusting ball of lace!" Hitomi wailed. Merla held the pink dress up. It was plastered with white lace—lace at the collar, lace down the bodies, lace on the sleeves, on the shoulders, at the bottom hem… "I don't see what's so wrong about it," she said in a bewildered tone. "It's the height of fashion." "You Gaens are blind!" Hitomi cried. "The height of fashion? This is a joke, right?" Merla shook her head. "I'd wear it, but I'm too fat for the dress. Besides, Gaddis wants me to wear that nice purple one that matches my eyes." "Why can't I wear my old outfit—you know the last time—when I got…" Hitomi trailed off, shuddering. "Kidnapped? Well…I don't know. You've gotten much taller, that's to be sure. Almost as tall as Van—but then again, he's grown too," Merla said. "Can we talk about the dress now?" Hitomi said impatiently. Merla went to her wardrobe. "Hmm…I have some old dresses that Father got for me when I was younger…" "No lace?" Hitomi asked gingerly. "None," Merla smiled. She pulled out a pale yellow gown. "No way!" Hitomi shook her head vehemently. "Calm down, I'm just looking through it…aha! Try that on for size." Hitomi glanced at it, expecting the worst, and exclaimed in delight. "Oh—it's—wow!" It was a plain, simple garment; golden-brown material that shimmered dully in the light. "Go on, try it. I'll turn around," Merla added, seeing Hitomi's discomfort. She shut her eyes and turned away from the girl.
Hitomi slipped it on carefully. "Okay, what do you think?" Merla turned back around and grinned. "Great—you should wear it." "Isn't it a bit—uh…tight-looking?" Merla looked; the costume indeed was hugging Hitomi's slender figure—it accented her slim waist and hips, but flared out fully and hid her feet. "That's how it's supposed to go," she said. "There's a sash, to go with it. Here." Merla pulled the dark green sash from the closet and tied it in the proper arrangement around Hitomi's waist. Three rawhide strings of sea-glass beads hung from the fabric. "And a headdress…" Merla yanked the gaudy headdress from the closet. "A bit too festive, I think. Don't wear it." Hitomi sighed in relief. "Good. Now that we've decided…can I get out of this rig?"
*************
"I ask of a favor, Van Fanel," King Aston rumbled. Van eyed him warily. "What is it?"
"You know of Kemana—up north?"
"Yes, sire. It's known as a wild land—run by savages of some sort."
"I need to send an ambassador there. Right now I have no one…and, as you are rather good with a sword, you're able to defend yourself. One of my advisors suggested you."
Van opened his mouth to protest, but Aston stalled him with a raised hand. "I know you don't want to leave Hitomi—"
"It's not only that, sire, but I have responsibilities towards Fanelia—I can't just disappear on some fool mission—my people will worry," Van interrupted.
"This I realize, King Van. But our ties with Kemana are in danger at the moment—you wouldn't want another war, would you? Hitomi and your people would be in danger again." Aston smiled to himself, knowing he had the young King right where he wanted him—caught in between.
"I…" Van was lost for words.
"So you see, King Van, why this is important," Aston let his previous words sink in.
"Why won't you send someone else?" Van demanded.
"I've already told you," Aston laughed, holding his hands out wide, palms up. "You're the best swordsman here!"
Is that the only damn reason…Van thought darkly. "Very well," he sighed. "I accept. When do I leave?"
Aston grinned, showing rows of uneven yellow teeth. "Tomorrow, at first light. A leviship will be there to take you. The trip will take, going, negotiating, and coming back, approximately thirteen days, at the most."
Van bowed stiffly and stalked from the room, seething. To think I let that pompous idiot convince me to leave—
***************
The night air was crisp, and a chill breezed floating through the open windows and doors. Hitomi hugged her shoulders and shivered. The robe was not protecting her very well from the cold. "Hey," Van appeared suddenly behind her. He smiled and sat down beside her. "Hi, Van," Hitomi murmured, absentmindedly taking his hand. They sat in silence for a moment. Then Van cleared his throat nervously and said, "I'm…leaving in the morning…" "What?" Hitomi looked at him. "Yeah…uh…I accepted a mission from Aston and I'm going tomorrow at first light." "Where—for how long?" Hitomi asked. "To Kemana, north of here. Aston says the visit will take about thirteen days or less. I'll be back soon." "Make it soon," Hitomi whispered.
"May I present His Majesty King Aston of Asturia—Lady Merla and Sir Gaddis—Princess Aeries—Prince Chid—and King Van Fanel with the Tsbasi no Kami!" a crier announced.
"That's our cue," Van grinned. He linked arms with her. "How did they know I'm the—" "You don't think you'd just fade out of existence here after the Destiny War, do you? Stories have spread. You're a legend, practically," Van whispered. They proceeded slowly behind Prince Chid, who was acting as an escort for Princess Aeries. King Aston sat down heavily in a chair and made a motion. Music started almost immediately. "You promised," Van murmured. Hitomi turned to face him, and they repeated what he'd taught her on the hill. Hitomi spun about and came back to him as she breathed, "They're all for you, if you want…" Van kissed her lightly, ignoring the cries of surprise and sighs from the people watching. "Van—" Hitomi gasped, surprised. "Let them think what they want," Van whispered. "This is our time; I'm leaving tomorrow, remember?" Hitomi didn't want to remember. "I'll miss you," she said, into his shoulder. "I'll miss you, too. But we can keep in contact—right?" Van smiled. :You bet we can,: Hitomi sent.
All the women standing there was jealous of Hitomi Kanzaki—she'd stolen the King's heart and they danced each different song together.
:Van…: Hitomi said.
:You dance well, for a girl who just learned,: Van complimented. Hitomi blushed. The music changed and they began another dance. :And you just stepped on my foot,: she smiled.
***************
Hitomi woke with the sun shining down. "Oh no—I forgot to say goodbye—I overslept!" she gasped. :Hey, Hitomi—up yet? I mind-sent earlier, but you were asleep. We're crossing a lake right now, there're a lot of small villages scattered around. I've got to go now—the captain of the ship is calling me. Love you…: The image of him faded along with his words. Ariel enter, followed by Celena. "Hi! Just seeing if you were awake yet," Ariel grinned. "Missed sending your lover-boy off, though. He didn't mind—said he'd talk to you later." Hitomi grabbed a pillow and flung it at the cat-girl. Ariel dodged, picking the pillow up and throwing it back. "Hah! Take that!" she cried. Celena smiled broadly as she, too, picked up another pillow and chucked it at the cat girl. "Hey, two against one isn't fair!" Ariel shouted. "Every girl for herself, then!" Hitomi cried. She ducked as a pillow went sailing over her head. Within a few minutes all three girls were screaming and yelling, laughing as feathers floated down. Hitomi saw the feather and smiled, reminded of Van's wings. "Van'll be just fine," Hitomi assured herself. "He knows what he's doing.
If only she knew how wrong she was.
*************
"GODS!!" the shout woke Van from his slumber. He looked out and yelled in surprise. "What the hell?!" Two guymelefs were bearing down on the leviship, each one with glowing hands. "All hands on deck!" the captain bellowed. Van grabbed his Sword from the table and ran up the stairs. "What the devil is going on?" he demanded, to the nearest crew member he could grab. "Attack—on coastal village—must think we're here to help the villagers or somethin'!" Van released the man. "What do we do?" he asked the captain. "Stand by for orders!" the man barked. Van looked again at the guymelefs and saw the glow grow brighter and extend for the ship. "Damn—" he knew it was over. Van leapt from the leviship as the beams exploded it, shooting his wings out and skimming closer to the village that was being attacked. Astonished shouts met his appearance—before he could land and explain that he was a friend—an archer released the arrow and Van choked back a cry as the shaft buried itself in the base of his wing. The wing flopped uselessly and he plummeted.
**************
They flogged him with his own swordbelt when he would not answer their questions. He didn't know the answers—if he did, he ached too much to remember. He hung suspended from the ceiling by his wrists, wincing as the blows rained down. But he didn't cry out. He wouldn't give them the satisfaction. Van gritted his teeth and waited for the hits to stop. Finally the man doing to beating threw the belt down along with the Sword of the Dragon, unchaining the King from the ceiling and shoving him down besides the Sword. He menaced the King's throat with his own sword. When Van made no move to reach for the weapon, the sword lowered.
"Scum, you'll pay for destroying our village," he growled.
Van looked up with pain-filled eyes. "I've told you a dozen times, over and over, that I am an ambassador from Asturia to Kemana. I had nothing to do with the attack."
"Oh yeah?" the man kicked him, and Van couldn't help but flinch. He smiled bitterly. "Yeah."
"Cheek—" another kick "—don't talk back—" kick "—to me!"
The boy attending the man looked briefly horrified, but his expression melded into an impassive mask. The man left, leaving only the boy. "Why do you hate me, friend?" Van asked. His voice was hoarse and dry.
"I'm not your friend, damn you. You destroyed my village and killed my friends with your guymelefs," the boy spat.
"I didn't," Van muttered. "My leviship was destroyed flying overhead. It was either jump or die with the rest."
"You're a Draconian," the boy stared accusingly at him—but his voice quavered as if he were unsure.
"So?" Van laughed mirthlessly. "I know we're the so called cursed descent, but I'm not evil. Heard of the Destiny War—what's your name?"
"Elvrn," the boy said hesitantly.
"Nice name," Van said. The remarkable thing about Elvrn was his ears. They were long, and pointed. Even his name sounded like the word 'elf.' "Have you ever heard of the Seeress from the Mystic Moon?"
"Kanzaki Hitomi," the boy answered promptly. "Good. Do you know about the King of Fanelia, who's country was destroyed before the war?"
"Yes. They say he was as skinny as a twig, but his love for both his country and the Seeress helped to defeat the Dark Dragon Lord." Van smiled—flushing a bit, but he smiled. "Right again." The boy smiled tentatively—he was warming to this stranger.
"Uh…excuse me, sir, but you haven't told me your name yet."
"Just call me Dragon," Van replied. "Now if you'll excuse me, I've got to go and finish my delicious meal of stale bread and stagnant water." He turned his back on the child.
"Sir—wait. If you were really bad, you would have attacked me once Myeglar left. Take this," Elvrn said. He handed the King a small roll of white bread. "It's my payment for working here," he said softly.
"This roll?" Van said. Poor boy…he's pretty young to even be working. But for a roll this damn small to feed his probably large family? "I've got a question, Elvrn," Van kept his voice quiet, even though his anger was flaring up. "Where am I?"
"In Kemana, of course," Elvrn said.
"Thought so. Your king won't see me, though, right? Hmm…getting King Aston's message to him will be quite difficult considering the situation…"
"I must go now, the High Lord of Dungeons wants me to assist the maids in cleaning his room."
"Go, then. And…thank you for the food," Van said. He waited until the boy was far away before wolfing the food down. It had been so long since he'd eaten…
"Talk, you dog!" Thwack. Van shook his head stubbornly. "I have no clue as to what you're referring to." "Liar!" Whack. "I am an ambassador from Asturia," Van maintained. The willow cane snapped and Elvrn presented the man with another, trembling. Van saw, with a small smile, that Elvrn had cracked all the canes so they would snap faster. "Damn you, talk!" Swish. "I know nothing." "The attack on the village! When are your friends going to attack again!" Swish crack. Van shook his head, his eyes closed. His wrists ached from holding his weight up for so long. His whole body hurt. The welts of the previous beating were opening up and his entire back was probably a bloody mess, along with his wounded wing, which he had quickly retracted after his crash landing. He was of Dragon blood, Draconian's descendent—he healed fast. But his wing still pained him and the beatings were regular, not giving the other bruises time to heal. He felt himself calling out to Hitomi, even as he slipped into merciful unconsciousness. :Hitomi—help me—:
******************
Hitomi woke with a scream. Van's last words still lingered in her mind—'Hitomi—help me—' She buried her face in her hands, trying to scrub the image from her mind. "Oh god…oh god…" "Hitomi?" Celena's face appeared. "Are you okay?" "Me? Hell no," Hitomi laughed bitterly. "I know that! Obviously something had to be wrong, if you were screaming!" Celena said in exasperation.
"Van's in trouble. I can sense it," Hitomi said, in a voice that shook.
"How?" Gaddis' walked to his sister's side.
"In a cell—dungeon somewhere—they were beating him—oh—it was horrible—I couldn't do anything to help him—" Hitomi whimpered. "They?" Gaddis said. "What were they wearing?" "I have no idea…it was dark…and cold…and Van…hanging from the ceiling by his wrists…oh—" "Well, Van is a bit late in coming back," Gaddis pondered. "A bit late?" Celena snapped. "The guy has been gone for almost three weeks—that's one whole week overdue!"
"And so you see, your Majesty, that we've got to go to Kemana see if Van's all right," Gaddis finished. Hitomi nodded vigorously, her face tearstained. Aston nodded too, deep in thought. "I understand. Lady Hitomi, if I had known this would happen I would not have sent the lad. I am sorry." Hitomi clenched her fists, staring at the carpeted floor. "I'll send twelve soldiers with you. Good luck."
****************
"Sir, I'm sorry," Elvrn blurted, as he stopped by Van's cell. "But they've ordered me to stop all your rations until further notice—or until you talk about the attack…" Van felt his spirits droop horribly, but he kept up a confident front. "That's okay. I can live for another three days." He sighed. "Only…" "Only what, sir?" Elvrn asked. "I have…a friend…she's probably wondering where the hell I am…I can't talk to her…" Van meant the last part, too. He'd tried to communicate with Hitomi, but found himself blocked. Only the most desperate messages seemed to get through. Aren't I desperate now? Van thought bitterly. "I'm sorry, I really am," Elvrn said. He pulled the roll from his pocket. "You can eat this, if you want. I don't know about the water, though…" Van accepted the roll and ate it ravenously. "Thank you, Elvrn. Say—have you ever wanted to leave this place?" Van tried to keep the subject off his prison sentence. "Yes—a million times! If I could take my family with me and go somewhere else…" Elvrn murmured. If I come out of this alive, I could take him with me, Van thought. Elvrn looked up sharply. "Oh no—the prison Guard. If they see me…" he trailed off, bowed miserably, and ran away.
"Up ye go, Draconian," one guard said. He hauled Van up unceremoniously from the cold stone floor. "Where am I to be taken?" Van demanded, yanking free of the guard and standing by himself. "To the coliseum," the other guard chuckled. "Visitors, you see. Must provide entertainment for them. You'll never come out alive." "Oh yeah? Just watch me, damn you—" Van snarled. The first guard threw a punch that made him double over. "I—have—a request—then—" Van gasped out. "Last wishes should always be granted," the second guard grinned. "Let me use my own Sword." The first guard grabbed the Sword from the ground, and between the two guards, Van was marched off.
******************
"I have a strange feeling about all this…" Hitomi muttered. "I know. It's so weird," Celena whispered back. They were being led to the gladiator arena. "This way, friends," the guard said. He halted at a huge box in the seats ringing the arena. "Emperor Tao-Mu Yi, Lord and Ladies." Gaddis bowed accordingly. The emperor was a tall, muscular man, dressed in a deep purple toga. "Ah. Those from Asturia. How are you?" "Fine, Lord Tao-Mu Yi," Gaddis answered for all of them. "Take a seat, take a seat. Get ready—'tis the gladiator fight!" Hitomi sat beside Ariel and Ruku. "I feel queasy…something weird in the pit of my stomach…I have a very bad feeling about this…" Hitomi murmured to Ariel. "Me too—gladiators? Isn't that an outlawed sport? Two men killing each other doesn't appeal to me very hugely." "It's not that—it's something more…something's not right…" "Well, you'll have to watch. It's an act of courtesy—if we leave they'll be offended," Gaddis said. At that moment the trumpets blew and a fat announcer cried,
"The beginning of the Gladiator Celebratorium in honor of the Great Emperor Tao-Mu Yi starts now, in the Coliseum!"
From one side of the arena stomped at hulking man, wearing gleaming bronze armor. He carried a sword and a mace. "That is Lanye, my best fighter," the general whispered to Gaddis. From the other side two guards marched a youth in tattered clothing. He wrenched himself free of them and walked by himself to face the other man. He carried a sword that glinted dully, seeming like it had not been cleaned in a while. "Maybe this will be interesting…" Ariel began, then trailed off, staring hard at the boy who had just entered. Hitomi followed her gaze, catching her breath as the sunlight illuminated his face.
"Van?!"
Cliffhanger? You bet. Eight will be up soon, don't worry, don't worry, keep calm, etc. If my story means that much, though.
Um…I don't own Escaflowne.
Back to Asturia
[pic]
There was a knock on the door of Van's bedroom. He stirred, removing his arms from around a sleeping Hitomi's waist. "What do you want?" he demanded with a yawn. Gaddis opened the door cautiously.
"What were you two doing?" he asked, with a trace of a smile. Van flushed.
"Nothing."
"Well, seeing that you both still have your clothing on—" Van's face became redder "—I guess you weren't doing anything."
"What do you want?" Van asked again.
"That princess Wyera is giving Siel a hard time about your refusal—I suggest you go down and figure out a way to talk to her before she starts coming at me. You know I'm already taken. Gods, I hope that witch knows too." Van laughed.
"Tell him to just send her off, don't talk to her anymore. Oh—and Gaddis—do you think you could arrange for a regent sometime?" Gaddis raised an eyebrow questioningly, but didn't ask. He left to check on Celena.
Hitomi smiled in her sleep. Van stood over her and waited for her to wake up. "You're feeling better now, right?" he asked. That had been her excuse.
"Van—I don't feel so good," Hitomi said quietly, through the door. Van opened it hesitantly. "Siel will think this is scandalous," he grinned. "Anything to freak them out." Hitomi smiled at his adoption of one of her Mystic Moon phrases. "I know…but I just don't want to sleep alone tonight," she murmured. She stared up at him, giving him sad green eyes. Van just about melted. He sighed, running his hands through his tousled black hair to make it stand on end. "Okay, but don't you dare try anything—absolutely nothing will happen—between us," Van growled in mock- anger. "Oh…well…I suppose…" Hitomi looked up at him through her lashes. She nodded. "Fine, I guess." Hitomi laughed. "Anything to be near you, Van." Van grinned. "I'm irresistible, aren't I?" Hitomi stuck her tongue out at him. "None of your cheek," she smiled. They both laughed, and Van shut the door.
Hitomi opened one eye. "You know I was lying, Van Fanel," she said. Van gathered her into his arms and gave her a kiss. "Yeah—but I wanted to make sure." Hitomi giggled. Then gasped. "Wh-what are you doing?" she asked as Van cracked his wings from his back and lifted her. "I'm taking you somewhere," he said with a boyish grin. "We could have some…" he leaned close to her ear, "…fun." Hitomi blushed. "Van!" "Couldn't resist," he said, throwing the window open and leaping out. Hitomi smiled, and he bent his head and kissed her.
*****************
Yukari dreamed of Hitomi that night. 'Hitomi!' Yukari called, running out on a windy plain. She saw her best-friend running to a winged boy and laughing with him. She saw him lift Hitomi up into the air and fly off to a palace. She saw them kiss. Yukari smiled. 'Gee. I really didn't believe you…and…oh, Hitomi, I'm sorry!' Hitomi appeared suddenly. 'Hi, Yukari,' she said. Yukari gave her a hug. 'So you're finally happy, huh?' she said. Hitomi nodded, looking at her friend. 'Yes. Are you and Amano—' Hitomi paused as Yukari held up her hand and showed her a gold band. 'Just yesterday,' she said. Hitomi nodded again, and smiled as she said, 'I saw it when you asked me to read your future. I'll visit you again. But right now I think Van wants to talk to me…' 'Hitomi—Van's royalty, isn't he? I saw a palace earlier. Hitomi grinned. 'Yeah. Look, I've got to go now—Van wants me to wake up, I guess—" "Hitomi, you'll come back, one day—right?" Yukari asked. Hitomi looked at her shoes. 'Well…Yukari—I don't know…but we'll see each other again, soon.'
*****************
'Hi, Amano,' Hitomi said. Amano looked at her in awe. She stood beside a boy who resembled an angel, only he carried a Sword. 'This is Van,' she said. Van smiled and bowed. Amano imitated him, dropping his hand back down to his side. He had meant to give the boy a handshake. 'I just talked to Yukari. Van and I are going on a little trip,' she added. 'Hitomi…' Van caressed the back of her neck his fingers. 'Yeah, well, anyway…we've got to leave now. Goodbye, Amano. Don't worry, I'll talk to you again. Tell Yukari I miss her—and my family. If they think you're insane—give them this, okay?' She handed him one of her socks. It was white, with Yukari's signature across the material. 'But this—your lucky sock—you wear it on your meets and everything—' 'They'll know it's from me,' Hitomi said firmly, pressing the sock into his hand. 'It doesn't stink—I promise! I'll talk to you again, sometime.' Van bowed again. 'I'll take care of her, Amano-san—I give you my word. Arigato.' Amano smiled. 'Goodbye, Hitomi—King Van.' Van looked surprised as the two faded away.
Amano woke. In his left hand he clutched a white sock with a faded signature on it. He leapt up, shouting in amazement, and ran, as fast as his legs would carry him, to Yukari's home. This is amazing! Dream projection and sending things through dreams! This is a magnificent scientific discovery! "Yukari—look—" Yukari opened the door, rubbing her eyes. "It's from Hitomi—" Amano panted excitedly. "Come on, we've got to tell her mother and brother—"
*****************
Van and Hitomi woke simultaneously beside each other under the shade of a few trees by the Fanelian River. He gave her a small kiss. "You're finished talking to them, right?"
"I've just got to tell Keji where I've gone," Hitomi answered. "But I think he's out right now with mom."
"Good. Do you think Gaddis would like to be King for a while?" Van asked.
"Why?"
"I'm thinking of taking you on a 'little trip,'" Van replied. "To see all the countries, have a few adventures…without the usual junk that comes with the bowing and waving and so on."
Hitomi smiled. "That would be fun."
"Great," Van grinned. "But my wings are pretty sore from carrying a heavy girl like you around." He dodged the punch she threw at him, laughing.
"So we'll walk?"
"And ride. We can visit the old animal villages, see Princess Aeries in Asturia, go to Freid and scare old Aravis to death…you know what I'm getting at?"
"Like a honeymoon?" Hitomi asked.
"What's that?"
"It's after people get married; they go on these trips," Hitomi said, then blushed.
"We'll consider this a pre-marriage honeymoon, no?" Van said. "Fine by me," Hitomi laid her head on his shoulder.
"Perfect—we'll go back and tell Gaddis, and Lord Siel can be regent—he's good at that sort of thing, I know he will make a good ruler for my people—only for a while, mind you—then Gaddis, Merla, and Celena can come with us. You know what? We could take the Scherazade. It could be just like old times, just without all the visions and death-threats, jails and battles."
"Just like the old times," Hitomi repeated. "We aren't that old, are we, Van?"
"You're seventeen and so am I. Yup, we're a bunch of oldsters." He grinned impudently and grabbed her hand, pulling her along behind her. "That's just fine with me, though! Here, I know a place further down the river—ice cold water, perfect for a bath, don't you think?"
"Oh no, Van—hey, wait! I don't want to—" she yelled, but ran alongside him. The sun shone down on the couple as they ran across the outskirts of the city.
***************
Wyera grumbled to her advisor, "I don't know what he saw in that wench! But you can be sure, Mckael, that I will get even!" "They are leaving for Asturia at first light," Mckael supplied. "Good. Get my men to it. They know what to do," Wyera smiled evilly. Hitomi, or whatever they call you, you're in for a big surprise!
***************
"Ready for take-off!" Evanl yelled.
"Okay! Unfurl the sails! Activate levistones! Here we go!" Gaddis shouted.
"Again," Merla sighed, leaning her head on her husband's shoulder. Van stood behind them on deck with Hitomi, squeezing her hand.
"Hey," Celena called, running up to be with them. "Get a room, you two!" Van and Hitomi both blushed furiously as Ariel and Ruku, newlyweds, came up to tease them. Onward, Van thought, I've got my love, I couldn't be more happy. When we get back I propose…for now, a new adventure—for all of us. Hitomi tilted her head up and repaid all his short kisses with a long, tender one.
*******************
"I've explained it to you, my Dark Warriors," Wyera hissed. "Is there anything that I must clarify?" Three ninjas bowed and answered in a single voice, "No, m'lady." "Then carry out my mission—you will be richly rewarded." "Yes, m'lady. We will obey." They sprang up and vanished, like shadow wraiths. Wyera smiled harshly. "Bye, bye, Hitomi!" she cackled.
*******************
"King Van—Lady Hitomi!" Aeries exclaimed. "Princess Aeries," Van said, bowing. "Gaddis—Celena—Merla—it is wonderful to see you!" She squeezed her sister's hand. Van noted that the nine-year old had grown much taller in the past year. He also noticed there was someone behind her. "King Van, I presume," the boy said. "Chid!" Merla cried, hugging the little boy. Van looked closely at the child. He was around ten or eleven, with straight golden hair that fell to his waist—like Gaddis. Chid's eyes were unusually blue—also like Gaddis. He wore a black beret which flopped over one of his eyes, giving him a roguish air. Chid carried himself in a manner that resembled Gaddis exactly. Van eyed the Knight of Caeli beside him and saw Gaddis was extremely uncomfortable, for some reason. Van remembered Duke Aravis, with his thin dark handlebar mustache and his dark eyes. Marlene—Merla's elder sister, and Chid's mother—who had passed away many a year ago—had had blonde hair and brown eyes—
Such blue eyes had to be a trait— But only the Schezars—Gaddis, Celena—possessed such eyes. And Chid's eyes were only possible if—
Gaddis had noticed Van's eyes boring into him and looked swiftly away. :Van,: Hitomi said softly in Van's mind.
:Hmm?:
:Have you noticed—Chid looks an awful lot like—:
:Gaddis? I noticed, love.:
Hitomi flushed as Van referred to her as 'love.' Chid took Hitomi's hand and kissed it with casual grace that seemed to have been inherited from someone else. "Lady Hitomi," he said smoothly, in a manner that made him seem many years older. "A thousand apologies from my father, Duke Aravis, to both you and the King of Fanelia." "We've forgiven him ages ago," Merla smiled. "Cousin Merla—it's a pleasure to see you!" he said, forgetting all rules and throwing his arms around her to repay her earlier hug.
Van wrapped one arm around Hitomi's shoulders comfortingly. Chid seems like Gaddis in both looks and manner, he thought to himself, could it be possible that Chid is related to Gaddis in some way? Hitomi sensed his feelings and reached up to hold the hand that was around her shoulders. She stared into his eyes… Both heard Gaddis clear his throat loudly. "Ahem—" Van dropped his hand to his side, flushing. Hitomi looked at her sandals.
Chid eyed the couple quizzically. "You, Lord, and the Seeress from the Mystic Moon?" Van nodded, reddening even more. "I heard from my father that your love conquered the spell of the War God and destroyed the evils of the Dark Dragons," Chid said simply. Hitomi covered her red face with her hands. :Van—I—:
Van nodded. "I guess you could say that."
There was an uneasy silence, which Chid broke by saying brightly, "We're holding a feast today; I'll actually get to eat—" "—you haven't seen him eat yet—" Aeries said. "—this time—" Chid threw a look at the Asturian princess "—instead of you scoffing everything." Aeries stuck her lower lip out, slapping Chid's arm in mock-anger. "Humph—but you haven't seen Lord Van at it, have you, Chid?" she said. Van played along, acting nervous.
"Ah—maybe you shouldn't tell them…"
"He eats more than a dragon," Hitomi supplied. She glanced at the King and laughed. :Van, stop making faces—your face might fall off!:
Van stopped quickly. :Would it really?: he sent back. Hitomi grinned, shaking her head. "Fooled you," she said aloud. Chid looked at Merla, questioning. "They have a mind-link," Merla whispered to him. Chid had no knowledge of mind-links, but he nodded. "I see." "Well, let's not just stand here, come on! Father will be very pleased to see all of you; it's been so long!" Aeries said, grabbing her sister's hands.
***************
"Van, I don't know how to dance! How on earth do they expect me to attend some dinner ball or whatever they call it?!" Hitomi wailed. Van eyed her, amused. "I could teach you." Wild hope lit up her eyes. "Really? Teach me, and I'm yours forever—" she gasped and stopped. Forever… Van thought longingly. He forced himself to voice his other thoughts. "Um…about that, Hitomi—" She looked at him. "—uh…are you going to return to the Moon of Illusions?" Hitomi swallowed as he continued. "Because if you are…Hitomi—I think you should try to forget about me…I don't want to get close to you if you're only going to go back again…" Van had been expecting a reaction—he got one. Hitomi drew a deep breath, her cheeks flushing angrily and said, "Van—how could you even—I love you, Van—but now—" she smacked his cheek with a force that sent his head to the side. "I don't ever want to see your damn butt again!" she stumbled from him and ran away. Van was shocked; Hitomi had always been so careful about cursing—and now… Van groaned, turning and walking slowly down another staircase within the castle. You've blown it again, Fanel.
He met up with Gaddis along the way. "What's with you?" Gaddis asked. "None of your business," Van snarled, jamming his balled fists into his pockets and trying to push past. "Well, I could guess," Gaddis said, with a hint of a smile. "Your whole right cheek is covered by a very red hand- print—you look hurt, and since you're not with Hitomi, I'm guessing that you two had a fight." "Nothing happened," Van practically yelled. "Then explain the hand-print," Gaddis folded his arms and began to tap his foot. Van's tough attitude shattered. "I…told her…that if she was going…going back—I wasn't going to get close to her—I didn't…want my heart broken again…or hers, for that matter…" he said hoarsely. "I see," Gaddis said. "Let me guess again. You said that, she slapped you, then ran away." "How do you—" "I've had experience, you've forgotten," Gaddis winked knowingly. "Now what do I—" "You wait," Gaddis said. "Just go back to your room and wait." Van looked at the older man uncertainly. "Whatever you say—Commander," he added. Gaddis smiled. "Those were fun days—I almost wish for another war, just so I can battle again."
*************
Van lay on his bed, his head buried in the white goose-feather pillow. Just wait, huh? For what? Hitomi isn't like all the other girls—she's from a whole different planet…how does he know I'm not the one who's supposed to apologize—
He was interrupted as the door opened timidly. "Er…Van…?" Hitomi whispered. Van didn't lift his head, but said, "Come back to yell at me, huh." "No, Van…" Van raised his head a fraction. "Then what are you here for?" He looked at her. She was a mess; her short hair was tangled, her eyes red-rimmed, and her clothing wrinkled. "Van—please don't be mad at me…I'm really sorry—Van?" Van buried his head again. "Van—talk to me! Please, don't do this…" Van ignored her, still hurting. "Van…I'm sorry…I'm sorry…please, Van…" she sobbed. Van could sense her emotions, her nerves stretched to the breaking point, and she was totally sincere—completely sorry. He shook his head, the movement small in the all enveloping white of the pillow. :Van! God Van, talk to me…please…talk to me…: Van blocked her out. "Van!" Hitomi cried, her voice, already raw, breaking. She broke down completely, collapsing to the ground in a fit of near hysterical tears. Van leapt up, alarmed. "Dammit, what have I done—" he cursed, running to her side.
"Hitomi…shh…" he raised her gently, pulling her into his arms. She didn't stop sobbing, her whole body shaking. Van stroked her hair…her cheek, the back of her neck, he hugged her close to him. "Hitomi…don't cry…shh…I'm sorry…please don't cry…" Hitomi buried her head in his chest, trying to control herself, but in vain. Tears soaked the front of Van's shirt—Hitomi sunk down into his lap, crying uncontrollably. "Hitomi—" Van said, even more fearful. She sobbed his name, her face white and strained, then went limp. "Hitomi? Hitomi!" Van cried. She didn't stir. Van rose, carrying her carefully to his bed and tucking her in. He traced her cheek with his fingers before running out. "Gaddis, get up here—bring Merla!" he yelled.
"Van, I am so sorry—I didn't know…" Gaddis mumbled. "Not your fault. Just make sure she's okay," Van turned to Merla. "She's just exhausted herself and made herself sick with worry. Stay by her, if she gets feverish or delirious call me right away. Otherwise, she should be fine by tomorrow. And Van Fanel, I suggest you apologize first thing," Merla said curtly, and swept out angrily, her skirts swirling around her sandals.
***************
Van stayed by Hitomi's side for the rest of the afternoon. Gaddis stopped by twice—once, to bring him lunch, twice to talk with him. "I'm sorry," he said again. "Dammit, Gaddis, I already told you it wasn't your fault!" Van hissed. "I told you to wait…" Gaddis insisted. "I waited longer than I was supposed to," Van interrupted. Gaddis looked at his hands. "Van…about Chid…" Van didn't look at the Knight of Caeli. "Chid—he—Chid doesn't look like his father, does he?" Gaddis blurted out. "Aravis? No," Van said slowly. "He wouldn't look like M-Marlene is she were still alive either…right?" Gaddis continued miserably. "Maybe. But not her eyes," Van realized what Gaddis was getting at. "I—well…Aravis isn't really Chid's father. I am." Van looked up. "What?" "Marlene and I were lovers," Gaddis explained in a voice that was barely audible. "When King Aston found out, he exiled me to an outpost on the borders of Asturia. Marlene had a son and then died…" Van nodded, "Go on." "…I met Merla three years ago," Gaddis said, "she was so much like her sister…I couldn't help it and I—" "—fell in love with her—" "Yes," Gaddis nodded. "I'm sure she's noticed the similarities…Gods, I want to tell her but I—"
"—don't have to," Merla interrupted. She held up a book. Gaddis recognized it. It was Marlene's diary. "Gaddis, I already knew you had loved my sister," she said. "Father told me before I decided to run off with you. He warned me not to do anything rash 'because this Schezar fellow is a rascal who doesn't know what the word faithful means.' I didn't believe him…not until I saw Chid…then I knew…" "Merla—" Gaddis began. "You proved Father wrong. And even he admits it." "Merla—I—" Gaddis tried again. "I'm not angry with you. Marlene was beautiful. You were perfect for each other." "But, Merla…" "And now you're perfect for me, even if you used to love my sister. I still love you, Gaddis Schezar—you're my husband, whether you like it or not. But I think it's best that we don't tell Chid." She played with one of his golden locks. "Merla…" Gaddis said tenderly. Van cleared his throat with an equally loud, 'ahem' as Gaddis had earlier. "If you two are going to—" he chose another of Hitomi's phrases, "—make out, then go somewhere else so I can watch over my lady love like the angel I am." The sarcasm in his voice rang out loudly on the last few words. Merla glanced at him sympathetically before she pulled Gaddis out with her.
"Hitomi—I'm sorry…" he murmured, reaching over to brush her hair from her face. And froze. Her forehead was hot. Too hot for his comfort. "Damn!!" Van swore. "Fever. Delirium. Gods…why the hell did I have to act the way I did?"
******************
"Excuse me," Chid said. Aeries beamed at him. "You made it! Great—now teach me that sword move, please!" Merla watched her young sister attack Chid ferociously with a wooden sword. "Careful—Aeries—y'don't want to—behead—me on—your first—lesson—now do—you—" Chid panted, trying to disarm her. "Hah!" Aeries cried, jabbing at him with her sword. Chid grabbed the wooden tip and pressed it into his jacket. Groaning and staggering about outrageously, the prince of Freid collapsed beneath a statue. "Ahh…you've killed me…" he moaned, then feigned unconsciousness. Aeries giggled, tapping his prone form with her foot. "Get up, Chid, I know you aren't dead." "…argh! No, I'm a zombie a- reborn ter a-haunt yer—raaaaaawwwwr!" Chid rose slowly, his arms in front of him. Aeries shrieked with laughter, running away. Chid gave chase. Merla felt a tentative tap on her shoulder. "Gaddis?" she turned, expecting to see the knight's face. Instead she saw Van, with an anxious, wild look on his face. "Merla—fever—delirious—" he gasped. Then, regaining some control, "I tried everything—the cold cloth…water…the fever's not breaking…" Merla rose quickly. "You should have called me earlier. Follow me, I'm going to need an assistant."
******************
Van led her to Hitomi's side, where the girl lay, her cheeks flushed with fever. "Dear gods—" Merla exclaimed. She held her hand over Hitomi's forehead gingerly and pulled it away. "Burning up." Merla tore a few strips of cloth from the sheets. "Go get me a bucket of cold water, Van," she ordered. Van hastened away to do it. He returned a moment later carrying a full wooden bucket. Merla dipped the cloth in, squeezing most of the water out. She arranged one carefully on Hitomi's forehead. Merla reached into her sash, pulling out the herbs that were never far from her. "Here. Use your Sword hilt to grind these up," she said, selecting two leaves—she also handed him a bowl. Van complied, hurriedly crushing them. Merla took the paste and poured some water into the bowl, stirring it with her finger. The water took on a greenish tinge. Van nearly gagged at the smell. "We're going to make her drink that?" he asked, wiping the Sword's hilt off. "You're going to make her drink it, aye, and drink it all," Merla said. Van sighed. "Hitomi…I'm sorry if this tastes really terrible…" He held the edge of the bowl to her lips, letting a trickle of the liquid go into her mouth. Hitomi sighed; she licked her lips. Van continued until the bowl was near empty. Merla replaced the cloth on Hitomi's head. "Just keep an eye on her. Change the clothes whenever they get dry. I'll get someone to bring you dinner." "Thank you—Princess Merla," Van said. Merla paused. "No. Lady Schezar. I'm no longer a princess. Besides, I've got Gaddis. We love each other. What happened before is behind us—we've got a bright future ahead." She smiled at him, patting his hand, and left.
Hitomi…please be all right when you wake up…I'm sorry…I'm sorry…I'm sorry…gods…I hope you don't hate me…
Hitomi opened her eyes slowly. Her head throbbed and she felt like she was going to be sick. There was a bitter taste in her mouth. Van's face, wild and apprehensive, swam into view. "Hitomi—" the relief in his voice was immense "—thank the gods you're all right—" "Van—" she was too exhausted to sob; her voice was the softest of whispers; she threw herself into his waiting arms and hung on like grim-death. Van stroked her hair. "I…I'm sorry…" she whispered, "…honest…I am…" "No…it was my fault, entirely…" Van murmured, running a finger down the side of her cheek. Hitomi smiled weakly at him. "That's…really nice of you…Van…" "Hitomi…" Van said, resting his face in her hair. :I'm so damn sorry, Hitomi. I really am…: :No…please…don't apologize…: :Love you,: Van sent. Hitomi's smile grew a little stronger. :I—: "Love you, too…but now…I think…I'm going to…sleep…again…" she gave a little sigh, nestling in his arms, and fell asleep.
*****************
"Okay, first—here, put your hand on my shoulder," Van instructed. He wrapped one arm around her waist, pulling her closer. "Now, step forward—backward…left, two steps right—spin, come back…repeat… Great—you did it, Hitomi!" Hitomi stopped dancing. "Really?" she breathed. Van nodded—blushing as Hitomi kissed his nose. She grinned, stepping away from him and whirling about in exuberance. "Yes! I did it! Haha!" "You'll save a dance for me, won't you?" Van smiled his wonderful smile at her and walked slowly down the hill. "Yes—of course I will—" Hitomi called.
Van broke into a dash. As he neared the gardens he found Gaddis. The young King grabbed the knight by the hands and pulled him into a quick dance. "She's saving a dance for me!" he exclaimed, after he'd released the very-dizzy Gaddis back onto the stone bench. "I'm…assuming 'she' is Hitomi, then," Gaddis muttered, trying to regain his breath. "Damn, of course it is," Van grinned. Gaddis smiled back.
****************
Hitomi waltzed down the opposite side of the hill, laughing. She met up with Celena—shivering in the shade of a tree. Celena clutched her head, whimpering at times. "Celena? Is something wrong?" Hitomi could clearly see something was. "He's back—" Celena gasped. "Who?" Hitomi asked gently. "Dilandau—my nemesis—my evil genius—oh…it's t-t-t-terrible…" Celena tried to smile but dissolved into tears. Hitomi took the younger girl into her arms. "Shh. It'll be all right. Don't worry. I'm sure it's nothing to be worried about, at any rate. Dilandau won't resurface…shh…" "Oh—but he—h-h-has…' Celena whispered. "I picked a sword up the other day and all of a sudden—I—was—seeing things—through his eyes—I could use a sword again—I could fight—I beat one of the men at the stables with it—I actually was going to kill—him—but I stopped at the last moment—I never could use a sword before!" she cried. "Then that's to your advantage," Hitomi insisted. Celena sobbed brokenly for a minute or two, then took control. "You're probably right," she said softly, "I'm just being paranoid." Hitomi gave the silver-haired girl her friendliest smile. "You should duel Van sometime. I'd like to see which of you is better." Celena's mouth twitched, and she began to cry again. Oh no, what did I say…? "That too," she sobbed, "I think about Van and I get all angry and I want to kill him—suddenly…I don't know why! Van's my friend!" "Put your foot down," Hitomi said. "Fight it. Show that Dilandau who's the boss around in your mind." Celena squared her jaw. "I can do it," she said, more to herself than to Hitomi. "I can do it. Thank you, Hitomi." Hitomi smiled again. "Don't mention it."
***************
"You want me to wear this!? Oh my god, you've got to be kidding! Tell me you're kidding, please—don't make me get into that—that—that disgusting ball of lace!" Hitomi wailed. Merla held the pink dress up. It was plastered with white lace—lace at the collar, lace down the bodies, lace on the sleeves, on the shoulders, at the bottom hem… "I don't see what's so wrong about it," she said in a bewildered tone. "It's the height of fashion." "You Gaens are blind!" Hitomi cried. "The height of fashion? This is a joke, right?" Merla shook her head. "I'd wear it, but I'm too fat for the dress. Besides, Gaddis wants me to wear that nice purple one that matches my eyes." "Why can't I wear my old outfit—you know the last time—when I got…" Hitomi trailed off, shuddering. "Kidnapped? Well…I don't know. You've gotten much taller, that's to be sure. Almost as tall as Van—but then again, he's grown too," Merla said. "Can we talk about the dress now?" Hitomi said impatiently. Merla went to her wardrobe. "Hmm…I have some old dresses that Father got for me when I was younger…" "No lace?" Hitomi asked gingerly. "None," Merla smiled. She pulled out a pale yellow gown. "No way!" Hitomi shook her head vehemently. "Calm down, I'm just looking through it…aha! Try that on for size." Hitomi glanced at it, expecting the worst, and exclaimed in delight. "Oh—it's—wow!" It was a plain, simple garment; golden-brown material that shimmered dully in the light. "Go on, try it. I'll turn around," Merla added, seeing Hitomi's discomfort. She shut her eyes and turned away from the girl.
Hitomi slipped it on carefully. "Okay, what do you think?" Merla turned back around and grinned. "Great—you should wear it." "Isn't it a bit—uh…tight-looking?" Merla looked; the costume indeed was hugging Hitomi's slender figure—it accented her slim waist and hips, but flared out fully and hid her feet. "That's how it's supposed to go," she said. "There's a sash, to go with it. Here." Merla pulled the dark green sash from the closet and tied it in the proper arrangement around Hitomi's waist. Three rawhide strings of sea-glass beads hung from the fabric. "And a headdress…" Merla yanked the gaudy headdress from the closet. "A bit too festive, I think. Don't wear it." Hitomi sighed in relief. "Good. Now that we've decided…can I get out of this rig?"
*************
"I ask of a favor, Van Fanel," King Aston rumbled. Van eyed him warily. "What is it?"
"You know of Kemana—up north?"
"Yes, sire. It's known as a wild land—run by savages of some sort."
"I need to send an ambassador there. Right now I have no one…and, as you are rather good with a sword, you're able to defend yourself. One of my advisors suggested you."
Van opened his mouth to protest, but Aston stalled him with a raised hand. "I know you don't want to leave Hitomi—"
"It's not only that, sire, but I have responsibilities towards Fanelia—I can't just disappear on some fool mission—my people will worry," Van interrupted.
"This I realize, King Van. But our ties with Kemana are in danger at the moment—you wouldn't want another war, would you? Hitomi and your people would be in danger again." Aston smiled to himself, knowing he had the young King right where he wanted him—caught in between.
"I…" Van was lost for words.
"So you see, King Van, why this is important," Aston let his previous words sink in.
"Why won't you send someone else?" Van demanded.
"I've already told you," Aston laughed, holding his hands out wide, palms up. "You're the best swordsman here!"
Is that the only damn reason…Van thought darkly. "Very well," he sighed. "I accept. When do I leave?"
Aston grinned, showing rows of uneven yellow teeth. "Tomorrow, at first light. A leviship will be there to take you. The trip will take, going, negotiating, and coming back, approximately thirteen days, at the most."
Van bowed stiffly and stalked from the room, seething. To think I let that pompous idiot convince me to leave—
***************
The night air was crisp, and a chill breezed floating through the open windows and doors. Hitomi hugged her shoulders and shivered. The robe was not protecting her very well from the cold. "Hey," Van appeared suddenly behind her. He smiled and sat down beside her. "Hi, Van," Hitomi murmured, absentmindedly taking his hand. They sat in silence for a moment. Then Van cleared his throat nervously and said, "I'm…leaving in the morning…" "What?" Hitomi looked at him. "Yeah…uh…I accepted a mission from Aston and I'm going tomorrow at first light." "Where—for how long?" Hitomi asked. "To Kemana, north of here. Aston says the visit will take about thirteen days or less. I'll be back soon." "Make it soon," Hitomi whispered.
"May I present His Majesty King Aston of Asturia—Lady Merla and Sir Gaddis—Princess Aeries—Prince Chid—and King Van Fanel with the Tsbasi no Kami!" a crier announced.
"That's our cue," Van grinned. He linked arms with her. "How did they know I'm the—" "You don't think you'd just fade out of existence here after the Destiny War, do you? Stories have spread. You're a legend, practically," Van whispered. They proceeded slowly behind Prince Chid, who was acting as an escort for Princess Aeries. King Aston sat down heavily in a chair and made a motion. Music started almost immediately. "You promised," Van murmured. Hitomi turned to face him, and they repeated what he'd taught her on the hill. Hitomi spun about and came back to him as she breathed, "They're all for you, if you want…" Van kissed her lightly, ignoring the cries of surprise and sighs from the people watching. "Van—" Hitomi gasped, surprised. "Let them think what they want," Van whispered. "This is our time; I'm leaving tomorrow, remember?" Hitomi didn't want to remember. "I'll miss you," she said, into his shoulder. "I'll miss you, too. But we can keep in contact—right?" Van smiled. :You bet we can,: Hitomi sent.
All the women standing there was jealous of Hitomi Kanzaki—she'd stolen the King's heart and they danced each different song together.
:Van…: Hitomi said.
:You dance well, for a girl who just learned,: Van complimented. Hitomi blushed. The music changed and they began another dance. :And you just stepped on my foot,: she smiled.
***************
Hitomi woke with the sun shining down. "Oh no—I forgot to say goodbye—I overslept!" she gasped. :Hey, Hitomi—up yet? I mind-sent earlier, but you were asleep. We're crossing a lake right now, there're a lot of small villages scattered around. I've got to go now—the captain of the ship is calling me. Love you…: The image of him faded along with his words. Ariel enter, followed by Celena. "Hi! Just seeing if you were awake yet," Ariel grinned. "Missed sending your lover-boy off, though. He didn't mind—said he'd talk to you later." Hitomi grabbed a pillow and flung it at the cat-girl. Ariel dodged, picking the pillow up and throwing it back. "Hah! Take that!" she cried. Celena smiled broadly as she, too, picked up another pillow and chucked it at the cat girl. "Hey, two against one isn't fair!" Ariel shouted. "Every girl for herself, then!" Hitomi cried. She ducked as a pillow went sailing over her head. Within a few minutes all three girls were screaming and yelling, laughing as feathers floated down. Hitomi saw the feather and smiled, reminded of Van's wings. "Van'll be just fine," Hitomi assured herself. "He knows what he's doing.
If only she knew how wrong she was.
*************
"GODS!!" the shout woke Van from his slumber. He looked out and yelled in surprise. "What the hell?!" Two guymelefs were bearing down on the leviship, each one with glowing hands. "All hands on deck!" the captain bellowed. Van grabbed his Sword from the table and ran up the stairs. "What the devil is going on?" he demanded, to the nearest crew member he could grab. "Attack—on coastal village—must think we're here to help the villagers or somethin'!" Van released the man. "What do we do?" he asked the captain. "Stand by for orders!" the man barked. Van looked again at the guymelefs and saw the glow grow brighter and extend for the ship. "Damn—" he knew it was over. Van leapt from the leviship as the beams exploded it, shooting his wings out and skimming closer to the village that was being attacked. Astonished shouts met his appearance—before he could land and explain that he was a friend—an archer released the arrow and Van choked back a cry as the shaft buried itself in the base of his wing. The wing flopped uselessly and he plummeted.
**************
They flogged him with his own swordbelt when he would not answer their questions. He didn't know the answers—if he did, he ached too much to remember. He hung suspended from the ceiling by his wrists, wincing as the blows rained down. But he didn't cry out. He wouldn't give them the satisfaction. Van gritted his teeth and waited for the hits to stop. Finally the man doing to beating threw the belt down along with the Sword of the Dragon, unchaining the King from the ceiling and shoving him down besides the Sword. He menaced the King's throat with his own sword. When Van made no move to reach for the weapon, the sword lowered.
"Scum, you'll pay for destroying our village," he growled.
Van looked up with pain-filled eyes. "I've told you a dozen times, over and over, that I am an ambassador from Asturia to Kemana. I had nothing to do with the attack."
"Oh yeah?" the man kicked him, and Van couldn't help but flinch. He smiled bitterly. "Yeah."
"Cheek—" another kick "—don't talk back—" kick "—to me!"
The boy attending the man looked briefly horrified, but his expression melded into an impassive mask. The man left, leaving only the boy. "Why do you hate me, friend?" Van asked. His voice was hoarse and dry.
"I'm not your friend, damn you. You destroyed my village and killed my friends with your guymelefs," the boy spat.
"I didn't," Van muttered. "My leviship was destroyed flying overhead. It was either jump or die with the rest."
"You're a Draconian," the boy stared accusingly at him—but his voice quavered as if he were unsure.
"So?" Van laughed mirthlessly. "I know we're the so called cursed descent, but I'm not evil. Heard of the Destiny War—what's your name?"
"Elvrn," the boy said hesitantly.
"Nice name," Van said. The remarkable thing about Elvrn was his ears. They were long, and pointed. Even his name sounded like the word 'elf.' "Have you ever heard of the Seeress from the Mystic Moon?"
"Kanzaki Hitomi," the boy answered promptly. "Good. Do you know about the King of Fanelia, who's country was destroyed before the war?"
"Yes. They say he was as skinny as a twig, but his love for both his country and the Seeress helped to defeat the Dark Dragon Lord." Van smiled—flushing a bit, but he smiled. "Right again." The boy smiled tentatively—he was warming to this stranger.
"Uh…excuse me, sir, but you haven't told me your name yet."
"Just call me Dragon," Van replied. "Now if you'll excuse me, I've got to go and finish my delicious meal of stale bread and stagnant water." He turned his back on the child.
"Sir—wait. If you were really bad, you would have attacked me once Myeglar left. Take this," Elvrn said. He handed the King a small roll of white bread. "It's my payment for working here," he said softly.
"This roll?" Van said. Poor boy…he's pretty young to even be working. But for a roll this damn small to feed his probably large family? "I've got a question, Elvrn," Van kept his voice quiet, even though his anger was flaring up. "Where am I?"
"In Kemana, of course," Elvrn said.
"Thought so. Your king won't see me, though, right? Hmm…getting King Aston's message to him will be quite difficult considering the situation…"
"I must go now, the High Lord of Dungeons wants me to assist the maids in cleaning his room."
"Go, then. And…thank you for the food," Van said. He waited until the boy was far away before wolfing the food down. It had been so long since he'd eaten…
"Talk, you dog!" Thwack. Van shook his head stubbornly. "I have no clue as to what you're referring to." "Liar!" Whack. "I am an ambassador from Asturia," Van maintained. The willow cane snapped and Elvrn presented the man with another, trembling. Van saw, with a small smile, that Elvrn had cracked all the canes so they would snap faster. "Damn you, talk!" Swish. "I know nothing." "The attack on the village! When are your friends going to attack again!" Swish crack. Van shook his head, his eyes closed. His wrists ached from holding his weight up for so long. His whole body hurt. The welts of the previous beating were opening up and his entire back was probably a bloody mess, along with his wounded wing, which he had quickly retracted after his crash landing. He was of Dragon blood, Draconian's descendent—he healed fast. But his wing still pained him and the beatings were regular, not giving the other bruises time to heal. He felt himself calling out to Hitomi, even as he slipped into merciful unconsciousness. :Hitomi—help me—:
******************
Hitomi woke with a scream. Van's last words still lingered in her mind—'Hitomi—help me—' She buried her face in her hands, trying to scrub the image from her mind. "Oh god…oh god…" "Hitomi?" Celena's face appeared. "Are you okay?" "Me? Hell no," Hitomi laughed bitterly. "I know that! Obviously something had to be wrong, if you were screaming!" Celena said in exasperation.
"Van's in trouble. I can sense it," Hitomi said, in a voice that shook.
"How?" Gaddis' walked to his sister's side.
"In a cell—dungeon somewhere—they were beating him—oh—it was horrible—I couldn't do anything to help him—" Hitomi whimpered. "They?" Gaddis said. "What were they wearing?" "I have no idea…it was dark…and cold…and Van…hanging from the ceiling by his wrists…oh—" "Well, Van is a bit late in coming back," Gaddis pondered. "A bit late?" Celena snapped. "The guy has been gone for almost three weeks—that's one whole week overdue!"
"And so you see, your Majesty, that we've got to go to Kemana see if Van's all right," Gaddis finished. Hitomi nodded vigorously, her face tearstained. Aston nodded too, deep in thought. "I understand. Lady Hitomi, if I had known this would happen I would not have sent the lad. I am sorry." Hitomi clenched her fists, staring at the carpeted floor. "I'll send twelve soldiers with you. Good luck."
****************
"Sir, I'm sorry," Elvrn blurted, as he stopped by Van's cell. "But they've ordered me to stop all your rations until further notice—or until you talk about the attack…" Van felt his spirits droop horribly, but he kept up a confident front. "That's okay. I can live for another three days." He sighed. "Only…" "Only what, sir?" Elvrn asked. "I have…a friend…she's probably wondering where the hell I am…I can't talk to her…" Van meant the last part, too. He'd tried to communicate with Hitomi, but found himself blocked. Only the most desperate messages seemed to get through. Aren't I desperate now? Van thought bitterly. "I'm sorry, I really am," Elvrn said. He pulled the roll from his pocket. "You can eat this, if you want. I don't know about the water, though…" Van accepted the roll and ate it ravenously. "Thank you, Elvrn. Say—have you ever wanted to leave this place?" Van tried to keep the subject off his prison sentence. "Yes—a million times! If I could take my family with me and go somewhere else…" Elvrn murmured. If I come out of this alive, I could take him with me, Van thought. Elvrn looked up sharply. "Oh no—the prison Guard. If they see me…" he trailed off, bowed miserably, and ran away.
"Up ye go, Draconian," one guard said. He hauled Van up unceremoniously from the cold stone floor. "Where am I to be taken?" Van demanded, yanking free of the guard and standing by himself. "To the coliseum," the other guard chuckled. "Visitors, you see. Must provide entertainment for them. You'll never come out alive." "Oh yeah? Just watch me, damn you—" Van snarled. The first guard threw a punch that made him double over. "I—have—a request—then—" Van gasped out. "Last wishes should always be granted," the second guard grinned. "Let me use my own Sword." The first guard grabbed the Sword from the ground, and between the two guards, Van was marched off.
******************
"I have a strange feeling about all this…" Hitomi muttered. "I know. It's so weird," Celena whispered back. They were being led to the gladiator arena. "This way, friends," the guard said. He halted at a huge box in the seats ringing the arena. "Emperor Tao-Mu Yi, Lord and Ladies." Gaddis bowed accordingly. The emperor was a tall, muscular man, dressed in a deep purple toga. "Ah. Those from Asturia. How are you?" "Fine, Lord Tao-Mu Yi," Gaddis answered for all of them. "Take a seat, take a seat. Get ready—'tis the gladiator fight!" Hitomi sat beside Ariel and Ruku. "I feel queasy…something weird in the pit of my stomach…I have a very bad feeling about this…" Hitomi murmured to Ariel. "Me too—gladiators? Isn't that an outlawed sport? Two men killing each other doesn't appeal to me very hugely." "It's not that—it's something more…something's not right…" "Well, you'll have to watch. It's an act of courtesy—if we leave they'll be offended," Gaddis said. At that moment the trumpets blew and a fat announcer cried,
"The beginning of the Gladiator Celebratorium in honor of the Great Emperor Tao-Mu Yi starts now, in the Coliseum!"
From one side of the arena stomped at hulking man, wearing gleaming bronze armor. He carried a sword and a mace. "That is Lanye, my best fighter," the general whispered to Gaddis. From the other side two guards marched a youth in tattered clothing. He wrenched himself free of them and walked by himself to face the other man. He carried a sword that glinted dully, seeming like it had not been cleaned in a while. "Maybe this will be interesting…" Ariel began, then trailed off, staring hard at the boy who had just entered. Hitomi followed her gaze, catching her breath as the sunlight illuminated his face.
"Van?!"
Cliffhanger? You bet. Eight will be up soon, don't worry, don't worry, keep calm, etc. If my story means that much, though.