Hello! Once again, thanks for coming this far with me! The following
section is a series of letters, diaries (and others) written by the
characters themselves, and it covers the span of 15 years (please take
notice of the year numbers in ADW - I've calculated everything carefully),
and offers new ideas for Book Two. I've divided the Interlude into 2
parts, and this is just the first. Read on and see how you like it.
Interlude: Book of Aeons
I. The Starlight Scroll
When White arrives in the matter of the Great Work, Life has conquered Death; the King is resuscitated, Earth and Water have become Air; it is the domain of the Moon. Their child is born.then Matter achieves such a degree of fixity that Fire can no longer destroy it. Dom J. Pernety
Hitomi's Dairy Yellow, 15th Moon (May 15th), 5 ADW I am still not used to the Fanelian calendar, and even this new diary feels unfamiliar beneath my hands. Though I've been here for two months already, I cannot help but feel a lingering nostalgia for that place called the Mystic Moon, which for me will always be Earth. Of course, I can't let Van know I have such feelings, because he'll be either sad or anxious. I wonder if little brother is all right. But Fanelia is my home now, and weird as this is for me, I am Fanelia's queen. Gaea is now my home.
Right now, it is already midnight, and Van has fallen asleep. But I snuck up and must take this chance to write about today because there will never be another day like it. Today was my wedding day, the one I have - no, we have, always dreamt of. Selena had planned the whole thing, though I helped with small details like the flowers. Millerna and the seamstresses from Asturia brought us our dresses yesterday. They are not like the white dresses we wear on Earth, but they have a nice mixture of blue, gold, and white, kind of like what I saw Varie wearing. We had golden hair accessories, and we wore our rings of course. I like Selena's ring as much as my own. Van and Orion wore samurai-like attire, except less fierce-looking, maybe a bit like what Van wore when he was crowned king. Van gave me the pendant so I can wear it during the ceremony, but I will give it back to him tomorrow. It had been his since the past life.
Today itself has not been the busy succession of things that I thought a wedding would be. It was very simple, so there aren't a lot of details to reflect on. The most precious memory is perhaps the mood, and the atmosphere. I can't recall ever being this excited or happy, like being in a dream and waking up to find it's real. And I've never seen Van this way, like a little boy on Christmas Eve. I could hardly recognize him.
In the morning, when the weather was fairest, Orion and Selena, Van and I, got prepared and went down to the castle garden. We've invited only our most intimate friends, most of whom we've met during the war. I wish mom was here to dress me and dad can walk me down the isle and put my hand in Van's. But dad's not here. I just walked down the isle with Van and we proceeded to the veranda where there was a priest-like figure whom they call the Sage. Merle sprinkled white and pink petals all over the place, and in the summer light, everything was beautiful. The Gaean wedding ceremony is not that different from the ones I've seen back home, except they pray to different gods. Also, instead of exchanging rings, a piece is cut off the bride's gem. My green diamond is now a neat crescent, and the other half, which completes the circle, is fixed onto Van's ring. A special craftsman comes to do the cutting and fixing of the rings. At the end of the vows, we had to kneel on the ground facing each other, and the Sage placed our hands together and announced us man and wife. That was the moment I felt I will now be entirely Van's and he is completely mine. Now we have spiritual, emotional, physical, and matrimonial bond. I become girlishly exhilarated when I think of myself as Mrs. Fanel. This happiness will take some getting used to.
After us, Orion and Selena went up to the veranda/altar. Allen gave Selena away. Orion could hardly stop himself from laughing out loud. I assumed it was because he was overjoyed at being able to marry the girl he loves. But Van whispered to me that Orion was not so much excited about the ceremony as he was about his wedding night. How very characteristic of our dear Orion! Selena was perfect as always. It is very difficult to imagine how she once was the frightening Dilandau. When Orion and Selena were finally wed, the relatives and friends applauded happily for the second time. Afterwards, we all went into the castle ballroom, where lords, ladies, ambassadors and world leaders were waiting to congratulate us. It was the first time I met President Menulf of Zaibach; he seemed to be the opposite of Dornkirk. As a gift, he gave us Zaibach's newest invention, an electronic device that shows pictures and sounds, it is close to what we would call a T.V. He plans to make it a popular possession in every Gaean household, as I'm sure it will be, since it was so on Earth. If they ever invent the computer, I should find that very useful. I also met the bizarre looking Etolian ambassador, the famous philosopher named Oneseme. Van respected him very much, and I was intrigued by his tall, white, alien appearance, as well as by his brilliant philosophy.
During the lunch party, Van and I stepped aside and opened the presents everyone gave us. There were a lot of household items and baby clothes. Merle gave us two golden birds, kind of like canaries, which Van plans to put in the arboretum. She also gave us two trumpeter swans, which will live in the pond by the veranda. Dryden gave me his entire collection of ancient texts on Gaean mythology and archaeology. I'm so thrilled, because I think these books will help me understand Gaea's classic history the way I understood Earth's. Orion and Selena gave us a wonderful wooden cradle for the baby, and a white mare for me. I will learn to ride someday. In return, Van and I have given to them the entire upper west wing of the castle. This way, we can live together with our families. I especially like the present Chid gave us - a large painting of Van and I holding each other. The gift from Allen and Millerna was probably the most original. Allen commissioned the top three composers of Asturia to write symphonic scores for us. The songs were performed live by an orchestra that set up in the garden. We all went there for the concert, around sunset. The first song was called "Eyes", and Allen said it was written for me, though I think I'm not half as lovely as the melody. The second one was "Romance", and its beauty celebrates Love itself. The third was called "Story of Escaflowne", the one that Allen said is about all of our adventures. Of all the music I've heard in my life, I think this is the only one that genuinely reminds me of the sky, of wings and flying. It suits Van, and it should be "our song". However, Allen insisted that the next song, called "Tree of Hearts" was meant especially to celebrate our love. The melody is so beautiful, yet sad somehow, so I guess in this sense Allen is right, it is a lot like us. The present was indescribable. Allen gave the music scores to the court musicians of Fanelia, so we can hear the songs whenever we want. I should like to hear them at least once a day.
Before we sat down for this concert at sunset, we went for a tour of Fanelia in the afternoon. A lot of the lords and ladies went in their carriages and followed us. I looked out the window and saw the citizens waving to us. Fanelia seems like such a prosperous and happy place. We followed the canal and went through Palladium then up to Fidell where we dropped Merle and Vianne off at the school. Van visited the children as well as the patients in the hospital nearby. Everyone addressed him reverently as "Your Majesty", but they also said the same to me. I was very startled. The prospect of being queen has not fully entered my mind. When I was little, I would never have dreamed that the man I will marry is a king! But seeing how busy Van is with country affairs, I know I have much to learn, so I can help lessen his burden.
After the concert and dinner, we said farewell to our guests, and retired early to our rooms. Orion was aching to get back to his room with Selena.
Van and I fell asleep almost right away. Lately, I've been exceptionally tired all the time. It's probably due to the baby. He grows inside me faster and stronger everyday, and the belly is becoming more visible. As others say of pregnant women, I get really strange cravings so I eat endlessly. I'm not thin like I used to be, and I'll probably get bigger still. But thankfully, Van doesn't seem to mind. He's the same with me as before, and I can't express how grateful I am. Although mom isn't here to help me go through all the difficulties of pregnancy, Van is more than helpful. He's so studious when it comes to the details of my diet, exercise etc., and he learns from the healer everything there is to know about having a baby. He seems more worried than I am. The one thing I'm afraid of is perhaps the pain during labor, but Van says he'll stay by my side when the time comes. His tenderness sometimes makes me want to pinch myself to make sure I'm alive. On our wedding day, I think it's appropriate to reminisce how our relationship has developed. I remember how I spited him in the beginning, how I was too blind to see my own heart. What use were those visionary powers anyways if they could not help me see the truth? But right after I realized everything, we had to part. Looking back now, it was the most arbitrary and painful decision I ever made, but it was right. I think at that point in my life, I needed time and space away from Van so I could think clearly and grow up as I live my life with my own decisions. Van also needed the separation because I think he needed to believe in himself without me there saying I believe in him. He needed to reconstruct Fanelia with his own powers. We grew up and learned things by ourselves in our separate lives and we developed until we could connect fully again. The love that could not be completely realized before, is finally fulfilled. We've lost many things along the way: Van lost Escaflowne which he always relied on for strength, and I lost my family and my powers. Without the old shelters to protect us, our lives will be very different. But we have each other. In the end, God is probably fair. It's funny how everything started on that fateful day when I asked the cards if I would ever find true love. And here he is.
The day is long over now, and it's very silent. My hand is aching, and I think the candlelight is stirring Van. He looks so peaceful when he sleeps. He snores sometimes and it's so cute. I love the feeling of being able to call myself his wife, and crawl back into his arms and fall asleep. It's this feeling that tells me I'm home at last. Hitomi Kanzaki de Fanel
Orion's Letter to Van and Hitomi, during his honeymoon Orange, 30th Moon, 5 ADW Van, Hitomi, and whoever dares to read a letter addressed to the king (that's right, I'm talking about you Merle!), I'm good. Selena's fine. How are you? Fields of Asopia very pretty. Got the relics Hitomi requested. Stayed in small towns. Poet wrote us a poem. Not much to do on honeymoon except sex. In Freid right now. Will stay with Chid for another color or so.
Today is Merle's birthday. Happy birthday. Got you a present.
Good news: point of letter: Selena's pregnant. Can't express excitement in letter, but am happy, really, really happy. See, Van Fanel, I'm as good as you are! If child is boy, we name it Endymion. If girl, Encia, after Selena's mom. Selena must rest in Freid now. Will be home in time for my birthday on Red, 4th Moon, and Selena's on 8th Moon, so you better prepare something nice. Must sleep now. Yours, Orion
Announcement to citizens of Fanelia and the Gaean Council On Emerald, 1st Moon, the first dawn of the Year of the Aurorean Wings, 6 ADW, Queen Hitomi Kanzaki de Fanel Gave birth to His Royal Highness Prince Valorick Folken Vangelus Goau Orion de Fanel, Crown Prince of all Fanelia, Duke of Fidell, and First born child of King Van Slanzar de Fanel.
Van's message to Nestor Nestor, This is a list of the tasks for this week. You've worked too hard lately, so you tend to forget: Take out about one million gidaru per color from the royal family living fee, and distribute it among the poor and ill. I want to end poverty for my people. Hitomi has agreed to live a simple life with me. The remaining money should be enough for us and the baby. Don't forget - you can't tell the council. Arrange a meeting with President Menulf to discuss the insurrectionary movements in northern Zaibach. Tell him I will go see him. Hitomi picked a wedding present for Princess Eries and President Cornelius of Basram. Write a card (I'll sign it) and send the gift. Get someone to remove the new statues from the Japanese garden. There can be nothing gigantic like that. Just shrubs, stones, bamboos and water. It's supposed to be serene. Ask Dryden to explain. He said people of the Mystic Moon call it Zen. And make sure Hitomi does not see or hear about the garden. Remember, it's meant to be a surprise for her birthday. Van F.
Van's card to Allen Green, 18th Moon, 6 ADW Dear Allen, This is an invitation to the first birthday gathering of Valorick and Endymion. Being born on Rose, 15th Moon, Endy is but two colors younger than Val, so we've decided to have a joint celebration on the first day of the next lunar year. I understand that Millerna is born in the last color of the year, as is Hitomi, so we can all celebrate together, if it pleases you. We look forward to seeing you, Millerna and Amadis. I've sent a separate invitation to Freid. Yours truly, Van S. de Fanel
Selena's letter to Orion Purple, 6th Moon, 8 ADW My dearest Love, Without you by my side, I am like a soul who has lost its way to heaven. Though we may not have despaired at our farewell two weeks ago, I cannot bear this separation, especially since our son is still so young. Of course, you will return shortly, but right now, you are far away. However, I should not wish otherwise, because Van entrusted you to this diplomatic mission, so you should accomplish it at all costs. You are the most suitable spokesperson for Van's ideals. Be kind to the poor in those unfortunate countries, show them the Orion we all love so that they may fully understand Van's vision of the One Gaea. I have every faith that the long hoped for happiness will arrive for everyone else as it has for us. This "Atlantis Within" that Van and Hitomi speak of, do you suppose it really exists? I believe it does, but its image wavers and tortures us with a sense of inconstancy. When you return, all shall be well again, and I won't be troubled by such thoughts.
During your absence, I feel I have much less to do. In the mornings, I go riding with Hitomi as usual. We go up to Fidell where we help out at the hospital, and we sometimes have lunch with Merle at the school. Endy walks steadier everyday and he spends most of the time playing with Val, and sometimes Vianne also. In the afternoons, I take care of them, as Van and Hitomi have to handle country affairs. Our days are spent in such ease.
Endy calls "dada" more often now, perhaps showing how much he misses you. He still has not been able to build the little blocks like you taught him. Seeing our splendid child in front of me now, I understand the true life-force of our love. A wide gulf yawns between those distant days of loneliness and the present days of festive bliss. You made all this possible. You were the gentle wind that finally blew away the shadows of Zaibach. And here I repay you with my love and our child. And here I wait for you. Do you ever wonder how we arrived at this paradise? Can it be that our will was so strong and so creative that we became like the grass bending in the wind? The "potential past" which Van and Hitomi claim to have experienced, seems so full of insurmountable perils that I marvel at how we ever survived. It seems we've all breathed spring into the winter and walked out of time, into eternity. For a twilight moment, I was sure that war, evil and sadness have all become distant legends. But now, seeing our son so precious and fragile, and you so far away, I begin doubting: can this happiness really last? After all, we live in life and reality, not in a fairy tale. I fear for all of us. We've all endured too much from life and death. I feel the universe must owe us something, should it not pay? Forgive my dramatic emotions - this is the first time we've been separated since our marriage.
On a more casual note, Dryden has finally moved to Fanelia (the diamond industry cannot do without him), but he has chosen his own house near the market where he can do business. Being sufficiently close to the castle, he comes for dinner almost everyday. Merle is doing wonderful in the school, and as we've all foreseen, Vianne brings her boundless joy. They too, miss you lovingly. I know that Van has written to you, so there is no need for me to inform you of his state. However, I'm sure he has not reminded you that the 17th Moon is Lord Folken's birthday. I'm uncertain whether Van will have a memorial, but even if he doesn't, you should be back by then anyhow. Furthermore, brother has been waiting for us to spend a weekend in Palas. Please take care of yourself, love. Don't forget to brush your teeth every night, and finish the rice cakes I packed for you. May the dragons always soar by your side. With a kiss in thought, Selena
Hitomi's Diary Yellow, 15th Moon, 9 ADW Four years ago today, Van and I were united in eternal matrimony. And now, our little Val is already three years old, and our family, which we once thought we'd never have, is more together than ever. The passage of these four years has been like the blooming of a May flower, and the wind always blows so softly. Life has been the real adventure, and I feel so grown-up. In fact, I'm only 24. But physical youth is irrelevant, for as long as Van's here, time cannot age me.
As we've always done on our anniversaries (I wish we also had anniversaries for the exact day we met or the day we reunited on Serenus, but unfortunately we cannot recall the dates), we would give each other the surprise present near sunset. I loved the ribbon spectacle he gave me last year, but this year's present is even more original and perhaps relates to us more personally. Just before sunset, when all the golden, lilac and rose oblique rays illuminated the castle, Van told me to close my eyes and he led me to a room. When I opened my eyes, I found myself in the arboretum, but among the trees and flowers there were beautiful heaps of snow feathers. The whole room was blanched with white softness, and tears swelled up as I suddenly remembered all the memories of feathers. Van has struck the heart and I love him all the more; he knew that the white feather symbolizes for me purity, hope, beauty, freedom, dreams.and all good things. I laughed and asked him if these were his feathers, but he replied it's molting season for our swans. He said there are exactly 1000 feathers in total. We went into the arboretum and ran around amid the feathers, then we sat by the huge windows and watched the sunset. It was then that I gave him my present, not the one I planned but the one that occurred serendipitously. Right after I told him I'm pregnant, he lifted me up and nearly sang the name 'Hermione'. It seems he's been expecting the arrival of our little girl. Plus, he has already seen what she will be like: vivacious, adorable, a princess and a dream. Van began talking about all the preparations again , and he wants to be in the delivery room just like last time. I remember when Val was born, I endured 24 hours of labor, and the thought of going through it again scares me. But Van is equally nervous. In the delivery room three years ago, he nearly fainted when he saw how I screamed and bled. It's rather funny now that I think of it - the ever so calm and courageous king frightened by the arrival of a baby. I also remember when I paid so much attention to baby Val, Van actually got jealous, thinking I didn't care about him as much anymore. Silly boy! I love to see him like that. This time with Hermione, we both will have had experience, so the process would not be as chaotic, though my pain and hardship will be the same. But it's all worth it. This little life growing inside me is the second child of Van and I, the living proof of our love. When I carry his child, all life and love become intensified, and I'm grateful for everything.
I'm strangely exhausted now, perhaps due to the pregnancy. Tomorrow I will collect the feathers into glass boxes. Van has just tucked Val into bed, and is now calling me. May it be four more years, four more decades, for Eternity. Hitomi
Yukari's Diary Today is the fifth memorial of Hitomi's death. I wish to be back in Kamakura right now, so I can retrace our childhood steps and run on the track, pretending that Hitomi is running with me. Maybe her brother and the remaining relatives are holding a memorial service, I don't know. I still dream of her as I always have, and tears would wet my pillow. But I cannot remember her voice anymore. When people leave us, it's their voices that go first. In the end, only the image of Hitomi in our old school uniform will remain - she would be smiling, her eyes would always be green, and then she'd run ahead and turn back to wave goodbye to me. I often wonder what that pillar of light through her plane was - they never solved the mystery. Hitomi sometimes talked of the far side of the moon, where there's a planet with dragons, chivalric adventures and a handsome young king who is her mystic love. I used to laugh and call her a silly romantic. But now, I wish all that were true. Hitomi, my very best friend, I say one last prayer for you: I pray that the mysterious light carried you to a beautiful world where you now live with your children and the man you love.
This research will end in two weeks and I will fly from London to Cairo again. This does not give me much time to think about Jason's proposal. I know my initial doubt, but frankly, why on Earth not? We've known each other for seven years, and perhaps he sees a bit of the Hitomi he loves, in me. Yukari
9. Van's Address to the Gaean Alliance (on the 10th anniversary of the end of the war) "This afternoon, as I was on my daily afternoon walk in the area around the castle, I came across an old man kneeling by the side of the road. My first guess was that he is a beggar, so I went over with much compassion and concern. But when I got closer, I observed that he was using colored grains to piece together the flags of many countries. I asked why and he replied thus: 'Today is the 10th anniversary of the end of the Destiny War. I form mosaics of the flags of the Valasian countries which fought in the war. I will later light a bonfire and pray.' He stopped suddenly and returned to his mosaic. Before I walked off, I noticed that Zaibach's flag was among the many. So you see, this good old man demonstrates a wisdom that has taken us so much pain to learn: peace. People often say that only the dead have seen the end of war. Perhaps. It is true that life itself images a chaotic succession of battles, and we are all like soldiers forced to endure pain and fear. We may have lost battles, but no, we have not lost the war, because here we are right now: the Gaean Alliance. Valasia, Asopia, Etolia and Asgard - brothers to brothers, Gaeans to Gaeans, each other's in life and death. President Menulf of Zaibach is our friend and ally. The chivalric spirit of the invincible knight must live in all of us. That is the true power that Atlantis has bequeathed to us. Strip away our weapons, our treasures, our systems, and it will still live on. Must we hate and kill and die? No - this past decade has proved that suffering is not necessary and that even the living may enjoy peace. Of course, Gaea is far from perfect, I know. Poverty, intrigues, riots still occur, but all these make it more essential that we stand together and strive for the greater. Our world is weary of a dark past, so let it rest. Our most fervent longing is for happiness, a thing most difficult to earn. Nevertheless, we should not give in to fate, which relentlessly tries to climb above our heads. On this memorial day, in the Year of the Moonlit Iris, 10 ADW, let us set a resolve to form the most beautiful mosaic of Gaea, with her four glorious continents!"
10. Excerpt from Dryden's third novel, Escaflyon Chapter IV: "The Moonlit Iris" He is as a master of life who has arched the castle halls, one quiet yet strong, who builds the garden in the image of his beloved and carves the columns according to the pattern of life. He is the suspended roof resting on sturdy posts, and sheltering the family below. With a creators' hands, the young king bends down to pick up the baby princess.
If the ocean were colored brown, it would look like her hair, fawn tresses just like her mother's. The autumnal softness of her hazel-sienna eyes images the colored zephyr. Being born just a few days ago, on Purple, 10th Moon, 10 ADW, Princess Hermione finds comfort in the cradle of her father's arms. She coos and cuddles, and a rare, charming smile brightens the king's face.
The four-year-old Prince Valorick, a steady and quiet boy like his father, came up and touched his sister's rosy cheek. "Daddy, what does her name mean?"
"Hermione?" Van held up her little hand and waved it in the air. "Well, it means winter flower, or the fiery red blossom in the snow."
Valorick stuffed a candy into his mouth, and tilted his head curiously. "Was I like this when I was little?"
Van laughed and tousled his son's palm-tree-like hair. "You were much more restless. Your mom and I hardly had anytime to sleep, because we were so busy taking care of you! C'mon, your mommy is calling you. Let's go see how she's doing!"
"She's not calling me!' the prince turned to the royal chamber and frowned. "I want to go play with Endy!" As Val was ready to skip off, his father grabbed him by the shirt and pulled him into the room.
With one arm holding his daughter, and the other arm guiding his son, Van slowly approached the bed, where Hitomi was still resting. Her eyes looked up, exhausted but glistening like a dawn. She reached out and held her new child, the new beginning to a new family. Van and Valorick gathered around the bed, and from that moment on, the unshakable affinity of the family was established. Hermione became the feathery but steadfast pedestal of the family, and in her light, all anger and sorrow would bow.
An Etolian painter named Gereon, who, through an association with Queen Eries of Basram, came to Fanelia to see the famed princess, and captured the brilliance of her bright-eyed beauty on her second birthday. He has painted Hermione as she sat on her mother's lap, the two of them gazing at each other. Gereon had taken masterly care to delineate the resemblance between the mother and daughter, and to shed a mood of ethereal peace on the loving scene. But though the queen was portrayed with undying youth and grace, most of the light was cast on the little princess, majestic in her irresistible charm. There was something in the pastel colors that suggested a coyness in Hermione, yet at the same time, her eyes glowed with such fire as if she was struggling not to flutter her eyelashes as she often does in real life. The painting is set in the arboretum, with ferny foliage, cream and red blossoms to the right of Hitomi. Light brown bark from a young tree protrudes into the left of the picture and blends gently with Hermione's brown curls.
It seems that ever since Hermione's birth, she diffused an air of youth, and as a result, her parents inhaled this air and seem not to have aged a day. Hitomi has kept her short hair, and even while she wears queenly attire, the hopeful and young Hitomi who saved Gaea from Dornkirk, could be seen. She will always give someone the feeling of forth-coming. When she is with her children, her laughter and playfulness make her indistinguishable from the young. She would stick out her tongue, pout or run around, forgetting all duty and status. However, in silence or solitude, Hitomi is the epitome of majesty. Though she has lost her visionary powers and Tarot cards, there will always be something of the seer in her. She has retained the white light of the Mystic Moon, and nothing can destroy that aura. Her deep, steady gazes are ever so prophetic.
While Gereon was in Fanelia, he took the chance to paint the now renowned portrait of King Van. Sitting on the ground of the throne room, with his back leaning against the throne, one arm placed casually on the knee, Gereon's Van displays authority tempered with his own carefree and fiery character. Van's other arm supports the body, and is placed on the seat of the throne, with his graceful hand dangling down. Gereon has shown him in a three-quarter profile, looking on some distant point. Van's red shirt had been painted slightly darker for the effect of the picture. Most of the light fell on Van's young and ravishing face, the only thing that was pale and clear amid the sepia, crimson and black of the painting. His eyes were large and gleaming, deep-set beneath strong brows. He looked observant and intellectual, anticipating the adventures life has to offer him. But there is also something dark and powerful about Van, recalling the tainted poetry of Lord Folken. The resemblance between the two brothers becomes more and more noticeable. The only difference is perhaps the presence of hope in Van. The eyes in the painting express it. Beside Van, sitting on the ground before the throne, is a pile of books, which Gereon has painted red and sulphurous chrome. One of the titles was "A World in the Wind". On the other side of Van, lying close to his leg, was the royal sword, shining with blood and valor of innumerable battles.
Gereon's Van seems solemn but also a little rebellious (since he is leaning on the throne instead of sitting on it) and very real. Ever since the disappearance of Escaflowne, the common saying on Gaea is that King Van has been demystified, because he lost the source of his power, Escaflowne. But they are wrong. The white dragon has always been Van himself. He has proved his greatness, with or without Escaflowne. And there is still a mysterious air about him. Perhaps it comes from the way he balances books with swords; perhaps it's the love he has with Hitomi; perhaps it stems from his past sufferings. Who knows. But it does not matter. For when one takes a look at his Fanelia, nothing more needs to be said.
Palladium and Fidell have flourished magnificently. The huge diamond industry has brought enormous wealth to the kingdom, and coupled with the king's flawless financial plans and kindness, the people finally saw an end to poverty. Trees have grown on either side of the Grand Canal and parks were built, giving Fanelia its traditional emerald look. Due to the influx of immigrants eager to be under the rule of the legendary king, three more cities have been begun in the past few years. All three are situated on the plains above Fanelia Valley, beyond Fidell, and are being perfected daily. Much money has been allotted to construction and most of Van's time has been spent on the planning. He has expressed some reluctance at first about the expansion of Fanelia. Van has always believed that a place must be small in order to be close to the heart. Perhaps he's just nostalgic for his childhood days when Fanelia was cradled in a valley. But after hearing the desires of the people, he decided that reasonable expansion is necessary. He promises comfort and prosperity to his people. Fanelia will be an even more powerful kingdom someday, even though Van has restricted further growth beyond the three new cities. He has named the cities Varie, Folken and Aleph.
In the castle itself, a garden has been made in the fashion of the gardens in Hitomi's old home. The royal family often spends afternoons there. On holidays, they would go up to their summerhouse in Folken. The castle walls have been paled by sunlight over the years, but at night, when the torches and candles are lit, the halls appear so solemn and quiet in their holiness, like the softly pulsing royal veins of Fanelia.
As the years pass by, the kingdom grew, as did the children. Hermione has grown more adorable, but at the same time, more royal. Under her parents' minute care and spoils for her, she blooms with love, but also with haughty grace. She is every inch the princess. It is obvious that she has inherited her father's stubbornness and fire. In all her endeavours, she runs and rampages, rousing a tumult for everyone around her, while she laughs or tries to fly off using her wings.
Valorick, on the other hand, contains the quiet strength of his parents. He is the amateur creator in the family, the artist with the deep green eyes of a visionary. Besides his creativity, there is his talent with the sword. While Hermione has the temper of a dragon, Valorick has the spirit of one. The few times he has held a sword, he demonstrated remarkable swordsmanship, as if it flows in his blood. If his father has not forbidden him to touch a sword, he would have grown up to be a great swordsman and pilot. As he matures, his curiosity about Escaflowne is intensified. But his father forbids that as well. He hears stories here and there, but those soon turned to legends, and legends into myths, until Escaflowne became a distant god that he struggles to believe in.
Valorick's best friend and constant companion, Endymion, often sneaks into his room at night, and the two boys would dream of Escaflowne, with all its gallant and perilous adventures. But Endymion, who has his mother's gentle charm, curbs his imagination and dares not try to realize a myth in reality. He is a timid child, with blond curls and large, pensive blue eyes that he uses to observe Valorick daily. He admires the prince for his vast, unconquerable thoughts and creations. But Endy himself, being well-educated by his mother, is also a talent of sorts.
For instance, one autumn evening, when King Allen and his family paid a visit, everyone gathered in the evening room after dinner, and stood before the open twilight windows and looked out at Fanelia. No candles were lit inside. The space was illumined by the moonlight that flew in generously. Everyone was silent. Then suddenly, Valorick jumped up and said excitedly, "Play something, Endy!" The guests cheered and Orion came up to urge his son. Endy looked up with sad and confused eyes, and slowly shook his head. But he could not resist being pushed to the grand piano and having his trembling fingers placed on the keys. After a few deep breaths, the music began. Even though he was only six years old, his song was a vision. He played a slow and tender sonata, full of strange beauty and sorrow. It seemed to be sung by an unknown lover who lies on the moon nightly, and mourns the loss of her faraway love. The audience was entranced. A tear came down Selena's cheek. Endy's delicate profile stood out against the moonlight, and he too became a part of the vision. The music ended. He turned to the audience and saw that their gazes were still fixed on the Mystic Moon, their dark irises lit by its white light.
Interlude: Book of Aeons
I. The Starlight Scroll
When White arrives in the matter of the Great Work, Life has conquered Death; the King is resuscitated, Earth and Water have become Air; it is the domain of the Moon. Their child is born.then Matter achieves such a degree of fixity that Fire can no longer destroy it. Dom J. Pernety
Hitomi's Dairy Yellow, 15th Moon (May 15th), 5 ADW I am still not used to the Fanelian calendar, and even this new diary feels unfamiliar beneath my hands. Though I've been here for two months already, I cannot help but feel a lingering nostalgia for that place called the Mystic Moon, which for me will always be Earth. Of course, I can't let Van know I have such feelings, because he'll be either sad or anxious. I wonder if little brother is all right. But Fanelia is my home now, and weird as this is for me, I am Fanelia's queen. Gaea is now my home.
Right now, it is already midnight, and Van has fallen asleep. But I snuck up and must take this chance to write about today because there will never be another day like it. Today was my wedding day, the one I have - no, we have, always dreamt of. Selena had planned the whole thing, though I helped with small details like the flowers. Millerna and the seamstresses from Asturia brought us our dresses yesterday. They are not like the white dresses we wear on Earth, but they have a nice mixture of blue, gold, and white, kind of like what I saw Varie wearing. We had golden hair accessories, and we wore our rings of course. I like Selena's ring as much as my own. Van and Orion wore samurai-like attire, except less fierce-looking, maybe a bit like what Van wore when he was crowned king. Van gave me the pendant so I can wear it during the ceremony, but I will give it back to him tomorrow. It had been his since the past life.
Today itself has not been the busy succession of things that I thought a wedding would be. It was very simple, so there aren't a lot of details to reflect on. The most precious memory is perhaps the mood, and the atmosphere. I can't recall ever being this excited or happy, like being in a dream and waking up to find it's real. And I've never seen Van this way, like a little boy on Christmas Eve. I could hardly recognize him.
In the morning, when the weather was fairest, Orion and Selena, Van and I, got prepared and went down to the castle garden. We've invited only our most intimate friends, most of whom we've met during the war. I wish mom was here to dress me and dad can walk me down the isle and put my hand in Van's. But dad's not here. I just walked down the isle with Van and we proceeded to the veranda where there was a priest-like figure whom they call the Sage. Merle sprinkled white and pink petals all over the place, and in the summer light, everything was beautiful. The Gaean wedding ceremony is not that different from the ones I've seen back home, except they pray to different gods. Also, instead of exchanging rings, a piece is cut off the bride's gem. My green diamond is now a neat crescent, and the other half, which completes the circle, is fixed onto Van's ring. A special craftsman comes to do the cutting and fixing of the rings. At the end of the vows, we had to kneel on the ground facing each other, and the Sage placed our hands together and announced us man and wife. That was the moment I felt I will now be entirely Van's and he is completely mine. Now we have spiritual, emotional, physical, and matrimonial bond. I become girlishly exhilarated when I think of myself as Mrs. Fanel. This happiness will take some getting used to.
After us, Orion and Selena went up to the veranda/altar. Allen gave Selena away. Orion could hardly stop himself from laughing out loud. I assumed it was because he was overjoyed at being able to marry the girl he loves. But Van whispered to me that Orion was not so much excited about the ceremony as he was about his wedding night. How very characteristic of our dear Orion! Selena was perfect as always. It is very difficult to imagine how she once was the frightening Dilandau. When Orion and Selena were finally wed, the relatives and friends applauded happily for the second time. Afterwards, we all went into the castle ballroom, where lords, ladies, ambassadors and world leaders were waiting to congratulate us. It was the first time I met President Menulf of Zaibach; he seemed to be the opposite of Dornkirk. As a gift, he gave us Zaibach's newest invention, an electronic device that shows pictures and sounds, it is close to what we would call a T.V. He plans to make it a popular possession in every Gaean household, as I'm sure it will be, since it was so on Earth. If they ever invent the computer, I should find that very useful. I also met the bizarre looking Etolian ambassador, the famous philosopher named Oneseme. Van respected him very much, and I was intrigued by his tall, white, alien appearance, as well as by his brilliant philosophy.
During the lunch party, Van and I stepped aside and opened the presents everyone gave us. There were a lot of household items and baby clothes. Merle gave us two golden birds, kind of like canaries, which Van plans to put in the arboretum. She also gave us two trumpeter swans, which will live in the pond by the veranda. Dryden gave me his entire collection of ancient texts on Gaean mythology and archaeology. I'm so thrilled, because I think these books will help me understand Gaea's classic history the way I understood Earth's. Orion and Selena gave us a wonderful wooden cradle for the baby, and a white mare for me. I will learn to ride someday. In return, Van and I have given to them the entire upper west wing of the castle. This way, we can live together with our families. I especially like the present Chid gave us - a large painting of Van and I holding each other. The gift from Allen and Millerna was probably the most original. Allen commissioned the top three composers of Asturia to write symphonic scores for us. The songs were performed live by an orchestra that set up in the garden. We all went there for the concert, around sunset. The first song was called "Eyes", and Allen said it was written for me, though I think I'm not half as lovely as the melody. The second one was "Romance", and its beauty celebrates Love itself. The third was called "Story of Escaflowne", the one that Allen said is about all of our adventures. Of all the music I've heard in my life, I think this is the only one that genuinely reminds me of the sky, of wings and flying. It suits Van, and it should be "our song". However, Allen insisted that the next song, called "Tree of Hearts" was meant especially to celebrate our love. The melody is so beautiful, yet sad somehow, so I guess in this sense Allen is right, it is a lot like us. The present was indescribable. Allen gave the music scores to the court musicians of Fanelia, so we can hear the songs whenever we want. I should like to hear them at least once a day.
Before we sat down for this concert at sunset, we went for a tour of Fanelia in the afternoon. A lot of the lords and ladies went in their carriages and followed us. I looked out the window and saw the citizens waving to us. Fanelia seems like such a prosperous and happy place. We followed the canal and went through Palladium then up to Fidell where we dropped Merle and Vianne off at the school. Van visited the children as well as the patients in the hospital nearby. Everyone addressed him reverently as "Your Majesty", but they also said the same to me. I was very startled. The prospect of being queen has not fully entered my mind. When I was little, I would never have dreamed that the man I will marry is a king! But seeing how busy Van is with country affairs, I know I have much to learn, so I can help lessen his burden.
After the concert and dinner, we said farewell to our guests, and retired early to our rooms. Orion was aching to get back to his room with Selena.
Van and I fell asleep almost right away. Lately, I've been exceptionally tired all the time. It's probably due to the baby. He grows inside me faster and stronger everyday, and the belly is becoming more visible. As others say of pregnant women, I get really strange cravings so I eat endlessly. I'm not thin like I used to be, and I'll probably get bigger still. But thankfully, Van doesn't seem to mind. He's the same with me as before, and I can't express how grateful I am. Although mom isn't here to help me go through all the difficulties of pregnancy, Van is more than helpful. He's so studious when it comes to the details of my diet, exercise etc., and he learns from the healer everything there is to know about having a baby. He seems more worried than I am. The one thing I'm afraid of is perhaps the pain during labor, but Van says he'll stay by my side when the time comes. His tenderness sometimes makes me want to pinch myself to make sure I'm alive. On our wedding day, I think it's appropriate to reminisce how our relationship has developed. I remember how I spited him in the beginning, how I was too blind to see my own heart. What use were those visionary powers anyways if they could not help me see the truth? But right after I realized everything, we had to part. Looking back now, it was the most arbitrary and painful decision I ever made, but it was right. I think at that point in my life, I needed time and space away from Van so I could think clearly and grow up as I live my life with my own decisions. Van also needed the separation because I think he needed to believe in himself without me there saying I believe in him. He needed to reconstruct Fanelia with his own powers. We grew up and learned things by ourselves in our separate lives and we developed until we could connect fully again. The love that could not be completely realized before, is finally fulfilled. We've lost many things along the way: Van lost Escaflowne which he always relied on for strength, and I lost my family and my powers. Without the old shelters to protect us, our lives will be very different. But we have each other. In the end, God is probably fair. It's funny how everything started on that fateful day when I asked the cards if I would ever find true love. And here he is.
The day is long over now, and it's very silent. My hand is aching, and I think the candlelight is stirring Van. He looks so peaceful when he sleeps. He snores sometimes and it's so cute. I love the feeling of being able to call myself his wife, and crawl back into his arms and fall asleep. It's this feeling that tells me I'm home at last. Hitomi Kanzaki de Fanel
Orion's Letter to Van and Hitomi, during his honeymoon Orange, 30th Moon, 5 ADW Van, Hitomi, and whoever dares to read a letter addressed to the king (that's right, I'm talking about you Merle!), I'm good. Selena's fine. How are you? Fields of Asopia very pretty. Got the relics Hitomi requested. Stayed in small towns. Poet wrote us a poem. Not much to do on honeymoon except sex. In Freid right now. Will stay with Chid for another color or so.
Today is Merle's birthday. Happy birthday. Got you a present.
Good news: point of letter: Selena's pregnant. Can't express excitement in letter, but am happy, really, really happy. See, Van Fanel, I'm as good as you are! If child is boy, we name it Endymion. If girl, Encia, after Selena's mom. Selena must rest in Freid now. Will be home in time for my birthday on Red, 4th Moon, and Selena's on 8th Moon, so you better prepare something nice. Must sleep now. Yours, Orion
Announcement to citizens of Fanelia and the Gaean Council On Emerald, 1st Moon, the first dawn of the Year of the Aurorean Wings, 6 ADW, Queen Hitomi Kanzaki de Fanel Gave birth to His Royal Highness Prince Valorick Folken Vangelus Goau Orion de Fanel, Crown Prince of all Fanelia, Duke of Fidell, and First born child of King Van Slanzar de Fanel.
Van's message to Nestor Nestor, This is a list of the tasks for this week. You've worked too hard lately, so you tend to forget: Take out about one million gidaru per color from the royal family living fee, and distribute it among the poor and ill. I want to end poverty for my people. Hitomi has agreed to live a simple life with me. The remaining money should be enough for us and the baby. Don't forget - you can't tell the council. Arrange a meeting with President Menulf to discuss the insurrectionary movements in northern Zaibach. Tell him I will go see him. Hitomi picked a wedding present for Princess Eries and President Cornelius of Basram. Write a card (I'll sign it) and send the gift. Get someone to remove the new statues from the Japanese garden. There can be nothing gigantic like that. Just shrubs, stones, bamboos and water. It's supposed to be serene. Ask Dryden to explain. He said people of the Mystic Moon call it Zen. And make sure Hitomi does not see or hear about the garden. Remember, it's meant to be a surprise for her birthday. Van F.
Van's card to Allen Green, 18th Moon, 6 ADW Dear Allen, This is an invitation to the first birthday gathering of Valorick and Endymion. Being born on Rose, 15th Moon, Endy is but two colors younger than Val, so we've decided to have a joint celebration on the first day of the next lunar year. I understand that Millerna is born in the last color of the year, as is Hitomi, so we can all celebrate together, if it pleases you. We look forward to seeing you, Millerna and Amadis. I've sent a separate invitation to Freid. Yours truly, Van S. de Fanel
Selena's letter to Orion Purple, 6th Moon, 8 ADW My dearest Love, Without you by my side, I am like a soul who has lost its way to heaven. Though we may not have despaired at our farewell two weeks ago, I cannot bear this separation, especially since our son is still so young. Of course, you will return shortly, but right now, you are far away. However, I should not wish otherwise, because Van entrusted you to this diplomatic mission, so you should accomplish it at all costs. You are the most suitable spokesperson for Van's ideals. Be kind to the poor in those unfortunate countries, show them the Orion we all love so that they may fully understand Van's vision of the One Gaea. I have every faith that the long hoped for happiness will arrive for everyone else as it has for us. This "Atlantis Within" that Van and Hitomi speak of, do you suppose it really exists? I believe it does, but its image wavers and tortures us with a sense of inconstancy. When you return, all shall be well again, and I won't be troubled by such thoughts.
During your absence, I feel I have much less to do. In the mornings, I go riding with Hitomi as usual. We go up to Fidell where we help out at the hospital, and we sometimes have lunch with Merle at the school. Endy walks steadier everyday and he spends most of the time playing with Val, and sometimes Vianne also. In the afternoons, I take care of them, as Van and Hitomi have to handle country affairs. Our days are spent in such ease.
Endy calls "dada" more often now, perhaps showing how much he misses you. He still has not been able to build the little blocks like you taught him. Seeing our splendid child in front of me now, I understand the true life-force of our love. A wide gulf yawns between those distant days of loneliness and the present days of festive bliss. You made all this possible. You were the gentle wind that finally blew away the shadows of Zaibach. And here I repay you with my love and our child. And here I wait for you. Do you ever wonder how we arrived at this paradise? Can it be that our will was so strong and so creative that we became like the grass bending in the wind? The "potential past" which Van and Hitomi claim to have experienced, seems so full of insurmountable perils that I marvel at how we ever survived. It seems we've all breathed spring into the winter and walked out of time, into eternity. For a twilight moment, I was sure that war, evil and sadness have all become distant legends. But now, seeing our son so precious and fragile, and you so far away, I begin doubting: can this happiness really last? After all, we live in life and reality, not in a fairy tale. I fear for all of us. We've all endured too much from life and death. I feel the universe must owe us something, should it not pay? Forgive my dramatic emotions - this is the first time we've been separated since our marriage.
On a more casual note, Dryden has finally moved to Fanelia (the diamond industry cannot do without him), but he has chosen his own house near the market where he can do business. Being sufficiently close to the castle, he comes for dinner almost everyday. Merle is doing wonderful in the school, and as we've all foreseen, Vianne brings her boundless joy. They too, miss you lovingly. I know that Van has written to you, so there is no need for me to inform you of his state. However, I'm sure he has not reminded you that the 17th Moon is Lord Folken's birthday. I'm uncertain whether Van will have a memorial, but even if he doesn't, you should be back by then anyhow. Furthermore, brother has been waiting for us to spend a weekend in Palas. Please take care of yourself, love. Don't forget to brush your teeth every night, and finish the rice cakes I packed for you. May the dragons always soar by your side. With a kiss in thought, Selena
Hitomi's Diary Yellow, 15th Moon, 9 ADW Four years ago today, Van and I were united in eternal matrimony. And now, our little Val is already three years old, and our family, which we once thought we'd never have, is more together than ever. The passage of these four years has been like the blooming of a May flower, and the wind always blows so softly. Life has been the real adventure, and I feel so grown-up. In fact, I'm only 24. But physical youth is irrelevant, for as long as Van's here, time cannot age me.
As we've always done on our anniversaries (I wish we also had anniversaries for the exact day we met or the day we reunited on Serenus, but unfortunately we cannot recall the dates), we would give each other the surprise present near sunset. I loved the ribbon spectacle he gave me last year, but this year's present is even more original and perhaps relates to us more personally. Just before sunset, when all the golden, lilac and rose oblique rays illuminated the castle, Van told me to close my eyes and he led me to a room. When I opened my eyes, I found myself in the arboretum, but among the trees and flowers there were beautiful heaps of snow feathers. The whole room was blanched with white softness, and tears swelled up as I suddenly remembered all the memories of feathers. Van has struck the heart and I love him all the more; he knew that the white feather symbolizes for me purity, hope, beauty, freedom, dreams.and all good things. I laughed and asked him if these were his feathers, but he replied it's molting season for our swans. He said there are exactly 1000 feathers in total. We went into the arboretum and ran around amid the feathers, then we sat by the huge windows and watched the sunset. It was then that I gave him my present, not the one I planned but the one that occurred serendipitously. Right after I told him I'm pregnant, he lifted me up and nearly sang the name 'Hermione'. It seems he's been expecting the arrival of our little girl. Plus, he has already seen what she will be like: vivacious, adorable, a princess and a dream. Van began talking about all the preparations again , and he wants to be in the delivery room just like last time. I remember when Val was born, I endured 24 hours of labor, and the thought of going through it again scares me. But Van is equally nervous. In the delivery room three years ago, he nearly fainted when he saw how I screamed and bled. It's rather funny now that I think of it - the ever so calm and courageous king frightened by the arrival of a baby. I also remember when I paid so much attention to baby Val, Van actually got jealous, thinking I didn't care about him as much anymore. Silly boy! I love to see him like that. This time with Hermione, we both will have had experience, so the process would not be as chaotic, though my pain and hardship will be the same. But it's all worth it. This little life growing inside me is the second child of Van and I, the living proof of our love. When I carry his child, all life and love become intensified, and I'm grateful for everything.
I'm strangely exhausted now, perhaps due to the pregnancy. Tomorrow I will collect the feathers into glass boxes. Van has just tucked Val into bed, and is now calling me. May it be four more years, four more decades, for Eternity. Hitomi
Yukari's Diary Today is the fifth memorial of Hitomi's death. I wish to be back in Kamakura right now, so I can retrace our childhood steps and run on the track, pretending that Hitomi is running with me. Maybe her brother and the remaining relatives are holding a memorial service, I don't know. I still dream of her as I always have, and tears would wet my pillow. But I cannot remember her voice anymore. When people leave us, it's their voices that go first. In the end, only the image of Hitomi in our old school uniform will remain - she would be smiling, her eyes would always be green, and then she'd run ahead and turn back to wave goodbye to me. I often wonder what that pillar of light through her plane was - they never solved the mystery. Hitomi sometimes talked of the far side of the moon, where there's a planet with dragons, chivalric adventures and a handsome young king who is her mystic love. I used to laugh and call her a silly romantic. But now, I wish all that were true. Hitomi, my very best friend, I say one last prayer for you: I pray that the mysterious light carried you to a beautiful world where you now live with your children and the man you love.
This research will end in two weeks and I will fly from London to Cairo again. This does not give me much time to think about Jason's proposal. I know my initial doubt, but frankly, why on Earth not? We've known each other for seven years, and perhaps he sees a bit of the Hitomi he loves, in me. Yukari
9. Van's Address to the Gaean Alliance (on the 10th anniversary of the end of the war) "This afternoon, as I was on my daily afternoon walk in the area around the castle, I came across an old man kneeling by the side of the road. My first guess was that he is a beggar, so I went over with much compassion and concern. But when I got closer, I observed that he was using colored grains to piece together the flags of many countries. I asked why and he replied thus: 'Today is the 10th anniversary of the end of the Destiny War. I form mosaics of the flags of the Valasian countries which fought in the war. I will later light a bonfire and pray.' He stopped suddenly and returned to his mosaic. Before I walked off, I noticed that Zaibach's flag was among the many. So you see, this good old man demonstrates a wisdom that has taken us so much pain to learn: peace. People often say that only the dead have seen the end of war. Perhaps. It is true that life itself images a chaotic succession of battles, and we are all like soldiers forced to endure pain and fear. We may have lost battles, but no, we have not lost the war, because here we are right now: the Gaean Alliance. Valasia, Asopia, Etolia and Asgard - brothers to brothers, Gaeans to Gaeans, each other's in life and death. President Menulf of Zaibach is our friend and ally. The chivalric spirit of the invincible knight must live in all of us. That is the true power that Atlantis has bequeathed to us. Strip away our weapons, our treasures, our systems, and it will still live on. Must we hate and kill and die? No - this past decade has proved that suffering is not necessary and that even the living may enjoy peace. Of course, Gaea is far from perfect, I know. Poverty, intrigues, riots still occur, but all these make it more essential that we stand together and strive for the greater. Our world is weary of a dark past, so let it rest. Our most fervent longing is for happiness, a thing most difficult to earn. Nevertheless, we should not give in to fate, which relentlessly tries to climb above our heads. On this memorial day, in the Year of the Moonlit Iris, 10 ADW, let us set a resolve to form the most beautiful mosaic of Gaea, with her four glorious continents!"
10. Excerpt from Dryden's third novel, Escaflyon Chapter IV: "The Moonlit Iris" He is as a master of life who has arched the castle halls, one quiet yet strong, who builds the garden in the image of his beloved and carves the columns according to the pattern of life. He is the suspended roof resting on sturdy posts, and sheltering the family below. With a creators' hands, the young king bends down to pick up the baby princess.
If the ocean were colored brown, it would look like her hair, fawn tresses just like her mother's. The autumnal softness of her hazel-sienna eyes images the colored zephyr. Being born just a few days ago, on Purple, 10th Moon, 10 ADW, Princess Hermione finds comfort in the cradle of her father's arms. She coos and cuddles, and a rare, charming smile brightens the king's face.
The four-year-old Prince Valorick, a steady and quiet boy like his father, came up and touched his sister's rosy cheek. "Daddy, what does her name mean?"
"Hermione?" Van held up her little hand and waved it in the air. "Well, it means winter flower, or the fiery red blossom in the snow."
Valorick stuffed a candy into his mouth, and tilted his head curiously. "Was I like this when I was little?"
Van laughed and tousled his son's palm-tree-like hair. "You were much more restless. Your mom and I hardly had anytime to sleep, because we were so busy taking care of you! C'mon, your mommy is calling you. Let's go see how she's doing!"
"She's not calling me!' the prince turned to the royal chamber and frowned. "I want to go play with Endy!" As Val was ready to skip off, his father grabbed him by the shirt and pulled him into the room.
With one arm holding his daughter, and the other arm guiding his son, Van slowly approached the bed, where Hitomi was still resting. Her eyes looked up, exhausted but glistening like a dawn. She reached out and held her new child, the new beginning to a new family. Van and Valorick gathered around the bed, and from that moment on, the unshakable affinity of the family was established. Hermione became the feathery but steadfast pedestal of the family, and in her light, all anger and sorrow would bow.
An Etolian painter named Gereon, who, through an association with Queen Eries of Basram, came to Fanelia to see the famed princess, and captured the brilliance of her bright-eyed beauty on her second birthday. He has painted Hermione as she sat on her mother's lap, the two of them gazing at each other. Gereon had taken masterly care to delineate the resemblance between the mother and daughter, and to shed a mood of ethereal peace on the loving scene. But though the queen was portrayed with undying youth and grace, most of the light was cast on the little princess, majestic in her irresistible charm. There was something in the pastel colors that suggested a coyness in Hermione, yet at the same time, her eyes glowed with such fire as if she was struggling not to flutter her eyelashes as she often does in real life. The painting is set in the arboretum, with ferny foliage, cream and red blossoms to the right of Hitomi. Light brown bark from a young tree protrudes into the left of the picture and blends gently with Hermione's brown curls.
It seems that ever since Hermione's birth, she diffused an air of youth, and as a result, her parents inhaled this air and seem not to have aged a day. Hitomi has kept her short hair, and even while she wears queenly attire, the hopeful and young Hitomi who saved Gaea from Dornkirk, could be seen. She will always give someone the feeling of forth-coming. When she is with her children, her laughter and playfulness make her indistinguishable from the young. She would stick out her tongue, pout or run around, forgetting all duty and status. However, in silence or solitude, Hitomi is the epitome of majesty. Though she has lost her visionary powers and Tarot cards, there will always be something of the seer in her. She has retained the white light of the Mystic Moon, and nothing can destroy that aura. Her deep, steady gazes are ever so prophetic.
While Gereon was in Fanelia, he took the chance to paint the now renowned portrait of King Van. Sitting on the ground of the throne room, with his back leaning against the throne, one arm placed casually on the knee, Gereon's Van displays authority tempered with his own carefree and fiery character. Van's other arm supports the body, and is placed on the seat of the throne, with his graceful hand dangling down. Gereon has shown him in a three-quarter profile, looking on some distant point. Van's red shirt had been painted slightly darker for the effect of the picture. Most of the light fell on Van's young and ravishing face, the only thing that was pale and clear amid the sepia, crimson and black of the painting. His eyes were large and gleaming, deep-set beneath strong brows. He looked observant and intellectual, anticipating the adventures life has to offer him. But there is also something dark and powerful about Van, recalling the tainted poetry of Lord Folken. The resemblance between the two brothers becomes more and more noticeable. The only difference is perhaps the presence of hope in Van. The eyes in the painting express it. Beside Van, sitting on the ground before the throne, is a pile of books, which Gereon has painted red and sulphurous chrome. One of the titles was "A World in the Wind". On the other side of Van, lying close to his leg, was the royal sword, shining with blood and valor of innumerable battles.
Gereon's Van seems solemn but also a little rebellious (since he is leaning on the throne instead of sitting on it) and very real. Ever since the disappearance of Escaflowne, the common saying on Gaea is that King Van has been demystified, because he lost the source of his power, Escaflowne. But they are wrong. The white dragon has always been Van himself. He has proved his greatness, with or without Escaflowne. And there is still a mysterious air about him. Perhaps it comes from the way he balances books with swords; perhaps it's the love he has with Hitomi; perhaps it stems from his past sufferings. Who knows. But it does not matter. For when one takes a look at his Fanelia, nothing more needs to be said.
Palladium and Fidell have flourished magnificently. The huge diamond industry has brought enormous wealth to the kingdom, and coupled with the king's flawless financial plans and kindness, the people finally saw an end to poverty. Trees have grown on either side of the Grand Canal and parks were built, giving Fanelia its traditional emerald look. Due to the influx of immigrants eager to be under the rule of the legendary king, three more cities have been begun in the past few years. All three are situated on the plains above Fanelia Valley, beyond Fidell, and are being perfected daily. Much money has been allotted to construction and most of Van's time has been spent on the planning. He has expressed some reluctance at first about the expansion of Fanelia. Van has always believed that a place must be small in order to be close to the heart. Perhaps he's just nostalgic for his childhood days when Fanelia was cradled in a valley. But after hearing the desires of the people, he decided that reasonable expansion is necessary. He promises comfort and prosperity to his people. Fanelia will be an even more powerful kingdom someday, even though Van has restricted further growth beyond the three new cities. He has named the cities Varie, Folken and Aleph.
In the castle itself, a garden has been made in the fashion of the gardens in Hitomi's old home. The royal family often spends afternoons there. On holidays, they would go up to their summerhouse in Folken. The castle walls have been paled by sunlight over the years, but at night, when the torches and candles are lit, the halls appear so solemn and quiet in their holiness, like the softly pulsing royal veins of Fanelia.
As the years pass by, the kingdom grew, as did the children. Hermione has grown more adorable, but at the same time, more royal. Under her parents' minute care and spoils for her, she blooms with love, but also with haughty grace. She is every inch the princess. It is obvious that she has inherited her father's stubbornness and fire. In all her endeavours, she runs and rampages, rousing a tumult for everyone around her, while she laughs or tries to fly off using her wings.
Valorick, on the other hand, contains the quiet strength of his parents. He is the amateur creator in the family, the artist with the deep green eyes of a visionary. Besides his creativity, there is his talent with the sword. While Hermione has the temper of a dragon, Valorick has the spirit of one. The few times he has held a sword, he demonstrated remarkable swordsmanship, as if it flows in his blood. If his father has not forbidden him to touch a sword, he would have grown up to be a great swordsman and pilot. As he matures, his curiosity about Escaflowne is intensified. But his father forbids that as well. He hears stories here and there, but those soon turned to legends, and legends into myths, until Escaflowne became a distant god that he struggles to believe in.
Valorick's best friend and constant companion, Endymion, often sneaks into his room at night, and the two boys would dream of Escaflowne, with all its gallant and perilous adventures. But Endymion, who has his mother's gentle charm, curbs his imagination and dares not try to realize a myth in reality. He is a timid child, with blond curls and large, pensive blue eyes that he uses to observe Valorick daily. He admires the prince for his vast, unconquerable thoughts and creations. But Endy himself, being well-educated by his mother, is also a talent of sorts.
For instance, one autumn evening, when King Allen and his family paid a visit, everyone gathered in the evening room after dinner, and stood before the open twilight windows and looked out at Fanelia. No candles were lit inside. The space was illumined by the moonlight that flew in generously. Everyone was silent. Then suddenly, Valorick jumped up and said excitedly, "Play something, Endy!" The guests cheered and Orion came up to urge his son. Endy looked up with sad and confused eyes, and slowly shook his head. But he could not resist being pushed to the grand piano and having his trembling fingers placed on the keys. After a few deep breaths, the music began. Even though he was only six years old, his song was a vision. He played a slow and tender sonata, full of strange beauty and sorrow. It seemed to be sung by an unknown lover who lies on the moon nightly, and mourns the loss of her faraway love. The audience was entranced. A tear came down Selena's cheek. Endy's delicate profile stood out against the moonlight, and he too became a part of the vision. The music ended. He turned to the audience and saw that their gazes were still fixed on the Mystic Moon, their dark irises lit by its white light.