Here I am!!!!! Yes, I'm back!!!! There is nothing I could tell you. No
important changes in my life. I'm still single and I still hate school!!!
Grrrr
Love you people and thank you so much for reviewing!!!! My special thanks are at the end of the chapter.
DISCLAIMER: I don't own grumbles
Chapter 7 Paths separate...
"Which one is our ship, Hitomi?", cried a very excited Gabriella tugging madly at Hitomi's arm and dragging poor Rhea behind her.
"I don't know. The name is 'Mermaid'.", Hitomi replied slightly annoyed.
"We should have let Van lead us to the ship.", the little girl stated making Hitomi snort.
Never would she accept help from him! She would find that damn ship on her own even if it was the last she did! Why the hell were there so many ships? Weren't ten of them enough? Noooo, there were hundreds of them! Hundreds and hundreds of ships and they all looked similar! Giant wooden hulls with masts which seemed to touch the sky and white sails waving gently in the soft breeze. The ships didn't look like they were just about to sail over the ocean but to sail through the air carried by the wind. Lots of men were loading the ones which would sail soon. Tons of boxes flanked the pier filled with exotic wares.
Hitomi's gaze trailed over the hull of the next ship at this neverending pier searching the name. "Please, be the 'Mermaid'.", she begged quietly. 'White Dragon'. Argh! She wanted to tear her hair! She wanted to tear Gabriella's hair. This girl was driving her nuts! Babbling the whole time without even breathing! Even Merle would be a better company. But when she was just about to grab the girl's beautiful hair she stopped in the middle of her tracks and turned around looking at the ship she had just passed. That name! Where had she heard that name before? It seemed so familiar. After a few seconds of intensely staring she shrugged and turned away. She was just imagining things.
Hitomi sighed. Only five piers more to check out. When she sourrounded another ship that wasn't the one she searched a beautiful wooden woman suddenly smiled at her. The Amazon looked down the perfectly carved body and saw that a long, swung fin replaced her legs. Hitomi shrieked mentally seeing the name at the side of the hull belonging to the wodden beauty. It was the 'Mermaid'. Finally she had found the ship which would carry her to the Easterly Continent. Without his help!
"Hah! See Gabriella, I found the ship without Van's help. I don't need him!", she exclaimed proudly.
"Yeah, I see. And you only needed one and a half hour more.", said a more than familiar voice from the side.
Hitomi spun around and spotted Van sitting cross-legged on a pile of boxes grinning from ear to ear. She snarled angrily and turned away. She heard him chuckle and jump down the pile.
"Merle is already at the ship reserving three boxes for the horses and cabins for us.", he said reaching her.
"Merle is at the ship?", Gabriella asked excited and Van nodded in response. "I'm gonna search her!", she shrieked and ran up the stage leading to the deck dragging her horse along.
"I won't sleep in a cabin beside you!", hissed Hitomi when the little girl was out of sight.
"I don't think that you're in the position to claim.", he replied mocking. "You're probably the last one entering the ship and there won't be much cabins left. You can be glad that Merle is so kind and reserves a cabin for the two of you, too."
Hitomi snorted. "She doesn't need to do so. I can find one for my own.", she stated. Who was she accepting help from that cat-girl?
"Yeah, sure. Like you found that ship, right?", Van said and took a step away expecting her to beat him. When he saw that she didn't jump at his teasing he started another attempt. "And I still wonder were you got these tickets from. I bet you stole them from a poor old lady. But I know, it's none of my business.", he ended awaiting her outburst.
But Hitomi remained silent. He's not worth it! Swallowing her reply she grabbed Dust's reins and started walking towards the stage. Van saw it and followed her signaling Tarik standing beside the pile of boxes to join him.
"Yo 'Tomi, wait for me!", he called after her.
The Amazon stopped at the base of the stage hearing him call her by her nickname, her heart skipping a beat. She was used to be called that way. Then, why did she feel so strange? Why was it so different hearing him say it? Why did she want him to say it again? No! She shook her head. She didn't want him to say it again!
"Everything alright, 'Tomi?", Van asked when he reached her seeing that she looked kinda absent.
"Don't call me that!", she hissed feeling her heartbeat fasten when he stood close beside her.
"Call you what, 'Tomi?", he replied as innocently as a little child.
She turned around and glared at him but he just smiled making her knees shake. He did this with full intention. He wanted her to start an argue with him. But she wouldn't do him this favour! He is not worth it! But she couldn't just walk off without a steep reply. He would call her a coward again. But did it matter what he thought of her? Actually it shouldn't but could she accept being defeated by a man in a verbal fight? No!
"You know what, Van?", she said turning away and started to walk off. "I'm very impressed. I mean you can't swim and we're just going to cross a giant ocean. There will be nothing but water around you. In every direction you look is water. Water, water, water. And imagine,", she made a dramatical pause, "there would be a storm! I don't believe that the ship could resist these waves. It's only made of wood. I would be afraid of drowning.", she ended grinning and turned around expecting to face Van.
She frowned when she faced nothing but air. There was no Van. She turned around completely and bursted into laughter. The picture infront of her was priceless. There he stood at the base of the stage, his horse beside him. Both looked at her absolutely baffled their mouths half opened in disbelieve. Hitomi tried to stop laughing but she simply couldn't.
"You should see your faces! Don't tell me you never thought of that fact!", she managed to say between stiffled giggles.
"You didn't!", she exclaimed nasty seeing him blinking in confusion. "Hah, Mister Mighty Novadi is afraid of placing a foot on this fragile ship!"
"I'm not afraid of anything!", Van defended himself.
"Oh really?", Hitomi replied mocking. "Prove it!"
Van snarled and grabbed Tarik's reins stepping determined on the stage. He couldn't make another step. By trying it he was forcefully stopped by a very reluctant Tarik who didn't waste a single thought of entering that ship. The Novadi turned around and glared at his friend.
"Tarik, what do you think you're doing?", he asked growling. The horse only shook his head hard making his mane fly through the air.
"She only tries to take the piss out of us.", Van continued pointing at a wild grinning Hitomi. "You make a fool of you infront of her." And as if stressing this statement of him Dust snorted loudly and it sounded like malicious joy.
"Look, even he thinks you're a coward! What about your honour?", he asked Tarik tugging at his reins. The horse glanced unsure at the woman and the other horse standing on the stage. Seeing them smile sardonic he neiged out loud and stepped on the stage. Together the two of them walked past Hitomi their heads lifted proudly. 'You better watch out or your heads will hit the sky.', Hitomi thought with a smile. But she had seen the expression on Van's face and she could say he really wasn't sure of what to think of that ship. Sure, she hadn't seen a ship before too but he had a personal dislike against water. But then again, it wasn't her problem! Determined, she straightened and walked the rest of the way up to the deck.
Oh hell, that were a lot of people! The deck was nearly completely filled. Some were searching their property between all the boxes standing at the deck, others discussed loudly and their voices caused a continuous hum floating in the air. Slowly she crossed the deck trying not to step on someone. She swallowed and the thought that she was stuck at that ship together with all these strange people for the whole crossing made her shudder.
Gabriella came running towards Hitomi waving her hands through the air. Hitomi could only shake her head. Although she was miles away from home and her friends, although there were so many people around her she didn't know, although she didn't know what would await her at the other end of this ocean there was a bright and genuine smile on her face which reached her eyes. She seemed completely happy.
"Hitomi, come!", she chanted and grabbed Hitomi's arm. "I lead you to the stabbles."
Hitomi smiled and let the blond-haired girl drag her across the deck. They reached huge wooden doors a ramp following behind them which led down into the hull of the ship. It was quite dim and it smelled of horses. Hitomi guessed that the stabbles couldn't be very far away.
"It's over there.", Gabriella said pointing towards a box ahead. "Van and Merle are already there."
The Amazon spotted Van standing in the box beside Tarik tapping him and Merle leaning against the wall. It was very narrow. There was only a small hallway between the boxes for the horses and the wall. Hitomi led Dust into the box beside Tarik's one and fastened the reins. They were silent. When they were finished the four of them left the stabbles in order to find their cabins.
Merle and Gabriella were infront of her chatting loudly. They were walking one behind the other because the hallways were as narrow as the ones at the stabbles. Hitomi felt as if she was in a trap. She hated this ship. And she felt Van's eyes in her back! He was walking behind her and she hated it, too! Scolding mentally Hitomi stopped and stepped aside.
"Go ahead.", she snarled.
Van chuckled. "What's the matter? Don't you trust me?", he asked innocently but Hitomi only glared at him. "Okay okay.", he said and brushed past her but right at that moment the ship jolted. Hitomi fell backwards but fortunately the wall caught her and Van who had been directly beside her stumbled and fell towards her. He pressed his hands to the left and the right of Hitomi's head against the wall trying to steady himself. Hitomi didn't move. She stared with wide green eyes straight into Van's reddish brown ones. His face was only centimeters away from her and she could feel his breath tickle over her skin. She felt her cheeks burn and she was sweating madly. Why was it so hot in there all of a sudden? Her gaze left his intense eyes and trailed down his face over his nose, his slightly blushed cheeks to his lips. Once again she was captured by them. They fascinated her in a way she neither could explain nor understand. Her mouth was dry as sandpaper and she absently licked her lips.
It seemed like an eternity until Van finally spoke. "Seems like the ship picked up speed.", he said and pushed himself off the wall making Hitomi snap out of her trance-like state. She let out the breath she didn't know she was holding and placed a hand over her wild beating heart. What had just happened? Looking up she saw Van walking away following the two girls to the cabins. The Amazon took a deep breath and followed them, too. She passed a lot of small doors with numbers on them. Loud voices could be heard from behind them. They were all occupied! She could forget to find another cabin. Like it or not but she would have to take the cabin Merle reserved. Dammit! But she wouldn't thank her!
.........................................
She stepped on the deck and inhaled deeply, the fresh and salty air filling her lungs. She couldn't deny that she liked that air. A soft breeze desheveled her hair and she streched noisily. That cabin was so damn narrow. She felt like a prisoner in it. Maybe she would sleep under the sky instead of sleeping in that cell. Slowly she scanned the deck. Most of the people were now resting in their cabins and the deck was nearly empty. The few people left were sitting in the shadows of the innumerable boxes relaxing. Enjoying the wonderful day. Hitomi decided to walk to the railing.
Reaching the port side of the ship she encircled the railing with her fingers feeling the wet wood under her skin. She spotted a flock of seagulls accompanying the ship, waiting patiently for food to be thrown over board. She glanced over the sparkling blue expanse infront of her. The reflexion of the sunlight made her squint. There was really nothing around her but water. It seemed endless making her feel very small. But she liked it. This was a place where she could forget everything. There were no problems, no other people, only the ocean and herself. For a few moments she could relax and forget why she was here and what had happened to her before. She listened to the sound of the waves swepping against the hull making the ship rock softly up and down. The wind carried small drops of water through the air to her face. Licking her lips she tasted the salt. It was when she suddenly felt a familiar feeling crawling through her body. It tingeled reaching to her toes and fingertips causing goosebumps. She felt her heart beat strongly in her chest. It didn't fasten but she could feel every beat intensely.
Slowly she turned around and saw the reason of the strange behaviour of her body. He leaned at the railing looking at the ocean. At once the feelings started to struggle within her again tying a double knot in her innards. But he looked so terribly lonely and she knew exactly how he felt. Guilty and angry. Guilty because of being not able to prevent it and angry because of the ones who did this to him. Without realizing she made two steps in his direction but then stopped. What was she doing? Feeling pity for him? No, it was understanding. She wouldn't do anything forbidden if she walked over to him. Yes, she would do nothing forbidden if she only stood beside him. Hesitantly she made another step. It didn't hurt so why was she so hesitant? It was only Van!
Taking a deep breath she walked over to him and leaned over the railing beside him. Her heart beating in her throat, she glanced at him out of the corner of her eyes but she couldn't see his expression because his pitch- black hair was hiding his face. She sighed and tried to calm down. It's only Van! A small smile crossed her face. This was a perfect situation for him to try to break through her wall again. She expected him to ask her one of his stupid questions within the next seconds. But he remained silent. Hitomi frowned and glanced at him again. At least he should have teased her like he always did but he didn't. Someone should make him snap out of it. And she decided to be the one.
"It's beautiful, isn't it?", she said quietly directing her gaze at the ocean but he didn't react. Maybe she should lure him on a bit. Only a bit.
"I like the ocean very much.", she continued. "I feel free when I look at it. I can forget all of the problems I have. I like to stand here at the deck and gaze at this endless expanse. I like the sound of the waves and the scent of the air. I could stand here for the rest of m life. And what are you doing here?", she finally asked and this time he reacted.
Hitomi saw out of the corner of her eyes Van turn towards her. She smiled widely. Hah, he swallowed the bait! She knew it! A triumphant grin plastered on her face she turned around but as soon as she faced him the grin vanished and was replaced by a look of pure shock. She gasped and put her hand over her mouth holding her breath. His breath was heavy, his once sparkling rusty coloured eyes were now dull and glassy, sweat covered his forehead his hair sticking to his face and his tanned skin was...was...dammit, was it green? His skin had the colour of an ominous pale green!
"Feeding the fishes.", he answered her question slightly annoyed.
"Oh my...V-Van?", she stuttered. "Wha-what's wrong with you?"
He gave a laugh and turned away. "Since when are you so worried about me?", he asked.
"You look awful!", Hitomi stated concerned.
"Thank you very much.", Van replied swallowing hard and faced her. "But don't worry, it's nothing. I'm fine.", he added seeing her look at him distrusting.
Taking a deep breath he pushed himself off the railing wheezing. But when his hands left the supporting railing he stumbled and fell over, groaning. Hitomi took quickly a step ahead and catched him before he could hit the ground. But he didn't make it easy for her. Her knees gave way and she fell to the wooden ground, Van leaning against her shoulder. He wheezed loudly and Hitomi could feel him tremble in her arms.
"Van, what's wrong?", she asked again but this time she wouldn't accept an 'I'm fine.'
"My head is spinning.", he groaned into her shoulder. "I feel so dizzy and sick. Hitomi, make it st...", his voice trailed off when he lost consiciousness in her arms.
Hitomi shook him hard when she felt him getting limp. What the hell was wrong with him? She turned the young man around and tapped his hot cheek calling his name but he didn't react. He only continued wheezing and trembling. What should she do? She wasn't a doctor or anything like that. She couldn't help him! Panic began to rise inside her. Maybe he was about to die and she couldn't do anything! Her heart was beating madly and she was breathing hard. Help! She needed help! Her head shot up and her green, with worry filled eyes scanned the deck searching for someone to help her. And then, Hitomi spotted her. Never before had she been so happy to see her.
"Merle!", she yelled. "Go and search a doctor!"
"Why should I...", the pink haired cat-girl started to complain approaching but then saw Van's limp body lying in Hitomi's arms. "What did you do to him? You hurt Master Van!", she shrieked outraged.
"I did nothing.", Hitomi shouted angrily. "Now GO and search a doctor!"
The cat-girl jerked back but didn't reply when she saw the look in Hitomi's eyes. It was something which Merle never expected the Amazon to feel towards Van. Worry. Her eyes begged her to help. And it made Merle believe her. The cat-girl then nodded bending down on all fours and dashed off.
Hitomi sighed and looked down at Van. She shifted a bit letting his head rest in her lap. Softly she touched his forehead and felt the heat of his skin. He was burning.
"Hold out.", she whispered softly into his ear. "Hold out."
.........................................
'What has gotten into me?', Hitomi thought tightening the grip around the wooden railing making her knuckles strike out white. She couldn't believe she acted that way. What had happened to her? She didn't know herself anymore. Where was the tough Hitomi she once had been? Where was the Hitomi managing coolly every problem? The only thing which was left of the young woman who had been an Amazon with all her heart was a weak girl who couldn't even sort out her feelings. She sighed desperately. What did he do to her?
She had been so worried when he had just fainted and she couldn't explain it. She had seen him lay helplessly in her lap, his face so pale and she simply hadn't been able to think rational anymore. Everything that had been on her mind at that moment was he. Van. The stupid guy who always teased her, who didn't take her serious, who turned her insides upside down. The thought that something could have happened to him had made her crazy. She had wanted to help him at any costs and not for the first time she must admit. She had thrown herself against him to save him from an arrow and she had jumped into a lake to save him from drowning. And she had done all this without even thinking. She could have died by trying to save him but at that very moment it had been absolutely unimportant. Her life had been unimportant.
Crying out in frustration Hitomi chased this stupid thought away. How could she dare thinking that? The life of an Amazon was always more precious than the life of a man! And nobody would change it! Nobody, especially not he!
"So, you are here.", said a gentle voice from aside.
Hitomi turned around and spotted a young woman standing beside her smiling genuinely. Her beautiful face was framed by long blond hair tamed by a pink ribbon in a loose pony-tail which swept softly in the wind. She wore a simple, light-blue dress with short sleeves. Nothing seemed special about her despite her beauty- to inattentive eyes. Attentive eyes could see the small, silver ring at the thumb of her right hand. But it wasn't any ordinary ring. The fine letters and the snake on it identified her as a member of the best doctors league on Gaea. The Medi.
"Where else should I be, Millerna?", Hitomi replied after a short moment of silence and turned away.
The woman smiled and joined her. "Don't you want to know how your friend is?", Millerna asked curiously. She was the one Merle brought along after Hitomi had send the cat-girl to search a doctor.
"No.", Hitomi answered harshly. "I'm not interested in it and...", her voice trailed off when she realized what she just did. "...he's not my friend.", she finished her sentece quietly. Her heart was beating hard. Why hadn't she said that he wasn't her friend at first? She had said that she wasn't interested at first. Why? She should have said that he wasn't her friend like a shot! She should have said it without hesitating! What did this mean?
"Really?", Millerna said making Hitomi snap out of her thoughts. "But for not being your friend you were pretty worried."
"What? I was not worried!", the Amazon nearly shrieked blushing furiously.
Millerna saw it but decided not to go into the particulars of it. "Well then, maybe you don't wanna hear it but Van is fine.", she said and it was a load off Hitomi's mind. No! It wasn't, it wasn't, it wasn't!!!!
"He is only seasick.", the female Medi told her. "Okay, he looks pretty bad and feels very sick and obviously he'll be sick for the whole crossing but I think it'll be over as soon as he leaves this ship. It seems he's not built to sail. I've never seen such an extreme seasickness like his one."
Hitomi smiled. Of course, he wasn't built to sail. He was a Novadi. She should have known. So, Van would be confined to bed until they reached their destination. It was funny to imagine and she bet he didn't like it.
"You're an Amazon, right?", Millerna suddenly asked.
Hitomi looked at her. "Yes.", she said shortly. Was it that obvious?
"You may wonder how I could know it.", Millerna replied. "But the way you move, the way you speak, your whole behaviour just isn't the one of an ordinary woman. An aura of strength and self-confidence always sourrounds you. I saw you when you entered this ship and...", she sighed, "...I envy you, you know."
Hitomi studied the young Medi intensely. Why should this woman envy her?
"But there is one thing I don't understand.", Millerna then said and looked with her ocean-blue eyes directly into Hitomi's sparkling green ones. "I thought Amazons hate men. But you and Van-"
"I said he means nothing to me.", Hitomi interupted her sharply. He meant absolutely nothing to her and he never would! "You seem very young to be a Medi.", Hitomi said trying to change the topic.
The smile on Millerna's face vanished and was replaced by a serious look. "Yes, I am.", she replied and sighed leaning on the railing. She was silent for a moment and it seemed she was deciding if she could tell more or not. But then she took a deep breath and began to speak. "I left my home and my family some years ago.", she said quietly. "I wanted to make my dream come true and become a doctor. I always wanted to help people, you know. But my father didn't allow it. Of course, he had a reason to act that way, I had duties to fulfill, a life to live. But I didn't want to live this life. And so, there was only one solution for my problem. I ran away."
Why did everyone suddenly have the urge to tell her about their problems? She didn't ask them to tell her everything about their lives! At first Van and now Millerna.
"I ran away from my duties like a coward.", Millerna continued. "I studied in Alexandria. I think I was pretty good and that's why I got the opportunity to finish my study under the charge of a very talented Medi. And then I became one of them.", she said and looked at the delicate ring on her slim finger. "To become a Medi was my biggest dream. I never believed that it would ever come true. And now I am a Medi and I'm not happy. Strange, isn't it?", she ended and looked at the ocean.
"Are you on your way home now?", Hitomi asked feeling that she should say something.
"No.", Millerna answered. "I received a letter from my father. He said that something had happened and that he needed my help in Freid."
"Freid.", Hitomi mused. "I've heard a lot about this country."
"Yes, it's wonderful.", Millerna replied and a small smile crept over her features. "My nephew lives there with his father and I'm on my way to them. I haven't seen the little boy for a long time. I wonder if he grew a lot. He must be eight years old now."
Hitomi remained silent. How she envied this woman. She was so strong. She had left her family to live her dream and now when her family needs her the most she is on her way to return, to give herself up.
"And what are you doing here?", Millerna asked turning around to face her.
"I'm searching for someone.", she answered quietly and sighed.
"A special someone?", Millerna continued to ask.
Hitomi shrugged. "I don't know him, her, whatever.", she said. "I was asked to find this whatever it is and to help them."
"Wow, you came the whole way from Skythia to here without even knowing where you could find this being?", the Medi asked impressed and Hitomi nodded.
"I could have never done this.", the blond-haired woman stated. "I could never leave my home without knowing what to do. I'm too afraid to do something like that."
"But you're strong! You-", Hitomi started to complain but was interupted by Millerna.
"No, I left my home with knowing what I would do.", she said determined. "I'm not strong, I'm a coward. But you, you are everything I always wanted to be. A strong woman who can take care of herself, who isn't dependant on someone else, who isn't afraid of leaving her home without knowing where to go, who doesn't run away from her problems."
Hitomi said nothing. Instead she turned away from Millerna's intense gaze biting her lips. What should she reply? She was nothing of what Millerna thought she was. She was the complete contrary. She was weak and afraid. But she couldn't admit it. See, she was like a coward again! If she was strong she would have admitted her weakness. She would have said that she wasn't worth being called an Amazon. She would have said that she wasn't good enough being send on this mission. But she said nothing.
.........................................
Folken stood at one of the giant windows in a hall somewhere in Fanelia's palace. His head rested against the glass and he felt the coolness from outside. He gazed at the city beneath him but he didn't notice it. Although his eyes were open he didn't see a thing. He was lost in his thoughts. Penthesilea and her army had set out this morning before dawn. He hadn't been able to see her again and he hadn't said goodbye. He hadn't been able to caress her soft cheek once more, hadn't been able to stroke her silky hair, hadn't been able to look into her boundless grey eyes, hadn't been able to capture her lips with his own ones.
He had never thought that a woman would ever make him feel like this. A small smile crept upon his face. Yes, she was special. She wasn't like any woman he had met during his whole life. He remembered the day he had seen her the first time as if it had been yesterday.
flashback
"Do you really think it is such a good idea to help the Amazons, Lord Folken?", said Isaac looking at the battlefield infront of him.
"Of course, it is a good idea.", replied Folken standing at the railing of his airship which was landing at the moment. "When these Orcs are defeated the queen will owe me something. And this will be very useful in future."
Folken glanced one last time across the land under him and then left his position walking towards the landing stage. He had gotten the news that the Amazons had been attacked and were about to lose the war not too long ago. He had decided to help them. Walking down the landing stage he spotted three Amazons sitting on horses awaiting him.
"You placed your foot on the ground of the kingdom of Skythia without permission! Who are you and what do you want here?", one of them with shining red hair asked making her horse take a step ahead.
"This is-", Isaac who just reached Folken's side started to say but was cut in by his Lord.
"I can speak for myself, thank you Isaac.", he said. "I'm Lord Folken of Fanelia and I'm here to speak with your queen.", he then answered.
"Our Queen is fighting but you can wait for her at the camp. Follow me.", she said and turned around.
Isaac ordered a soldier to bring two horses. When he returned they mounted and followed the Amazon who was just about to diappear behind the trees of a nearby forest.
"What about the two other Amazons?", Folken asked when he reached her.
"They stay there to keep an eye on your men.", she replied harshly.
Folken smiled. Amazons! Not trusting any man on this planet. But it didn't matter, sooner or later they would fight together that was for sure. A few minutes later the trees revealed a huge clearing. It was filled with lots of tents and hundreds of wounded women. They came to a halt and dismounted. Some Amazons walked over to them and talked with the red-haired woman.
At that moment a group of Amazons arrived at the camp. Two of them were supporting a badly injured woman. She was bleeding extremely and Folken guessed she wouldn't survive the next hour. Another Amazon was walking beside them. His gaze rested on her. She wore the typical armor of an Amazon. Green boots with iron plates protecting her shins and knees. A skirt with a belt around her slim waist, a blood-covered sword hanging at her side. Blood covered her chest armor, her scratched arms, parts of her face and the feathers which once adorned her iron helmet.
But the most unusual thing about her was the crying being she held in her arms. It was a girl of six years he guessed with sandy brown hair. She was beating the woman with all her strength and tried to free herself out of the grip. Unsuccessfully. The Amazon walked past him and he could see her face. It was scratched but beautiful. And then he saw her eyes. It were the most beautiful eyes he had ever seen. They were grey and incredibly sad. Never had he seen such sad eyes.
"Bring her away from here, Kallisto.", the grey-eyed beauty said to an Amazon standing beside him.
Kallisto took the still crying girl out of her arms and looked at the woman infront of her with a worried look. "What happened?", she asked confused.
"She's dead.", the woman replied flatly and Folken saw something sparkle in her eyes. "Now go."
Kallisto nodded her eyes wide in shock and turned away. Slowly the grey- eyed woman raised her hands and took off her helmet. Shining black hair appeared and fell on her hips. Folken stopped breathing and and stared at the angel infront of him imprinting her picture in his mind. He gasped when she suddenly turned towards him and looked straight into his eyes. The young, red-haired Amazon came running towards her and whispered something into the beauty's ear. At once her look darkened and anger filled her eyes. She shoved the young woman out of her way and walked over to him.
"What do you want here?", she barked when she reached him.
Folken snapped out of his trance and grinned. "I'm here to talk to your queen.", he said.
"I'm the queen. What do you want?", she replied her anger increasing.
Folken raised his brows in surprise but then bowed deeply. "Nice to meet you, Queen Penthesilea. I'm here to offer my help in fighting the Orcs.", Folken stated.
"I don't need your help! Take your army and leave!", she said causing Folken to look around the camp. Everything he saw were wounded Amazons.
"Really?", he asked suspiciously. "They don't look like they are able to continue fighting."
Penthesilea was just about to shot back when a completely exhausted horse with a blood covered Amazon sitting in the saddle arrived.
"Lelia!", the queen cried and ran towards the Amazon.
"The Orcs defeated the northern front.", Lelia said between deep breaths. "They'll soon be here."
Penthesilea's eyes widened in shock gazing around the camp. Never would they survive such an attack! They were all wounded! It would be a massacre! Her eyes finally found Folken grinning at her making her snort. She knew exactly why she hated these arrogant men. Thinking they were the best and strongest.
"You know you wouldn't survive it.", Folken said matter-of-factly.
The Amazon glared at him. Of course did she know! She wasn't stupid! What did this stupid guy think of her and why was he staring at her the whole time? She snorted. But she needed his help like it or not. She would send all the Amazons here straight into their death if she refused this help. She glared at Folken and his advisor who now stood at his side. She didn't like these purple eyes of him. They were strange and seemed to hide something.
"And?", Folken asked seeing her struggle with herself.
"What do you want for helping me?", she asked knowing that he wanted a reward. The Lord of Fanelia wouldn't cross the ocean and travell hundreds of miles with a giant army just because he was an unselfish man who always helped where he could. He was a strategist not doing anything without a plan. He smirked proving her right.
"Not much.", he replied the smirk grewing even wider. "I only want you to put your army at my disposal for one time. I say when time has come. No complains. That's all."
"That's all?", Penthesilea gave a laugh. As she said a strategist through and through. "Do you know what you expect from me?"
"Yes, I know exactly.", Folken replied smirking.
There was a silence between them for a few moments and they could hear the voices coming from behind the forest which sourrounded them. It were battlecries and they became louder and louder each second. Folken saw the queen clenching her fists. She was really beautiful. She startled him when her head suddenly shot up and she looked directly at him.
"Deal!", she said, her voice hard.
Folken didn't hesitate and grabbed a big swung horn which had been hide under his cloak. A deep tone left it when he blew into it echoing through the forest. The response were the cries of hundreds of armed men breaking through the undergrowth. Folken mounted his horse and took the lead of the army waiting behind him. Putting her helmet on Penthesilea grabbed the reins of one of the horses walking along the camp. She mounted it and joined Folken's side. Her eyes sparkled intensely when she looked at him.
"Let's go.", she said and he followed her together with his army.
end flashback
The doors swinging open made Folken snap out of the memory. He turned around and spotted a young, grey-haired man walking towards him. Dilandau bowed deeply when he reached his Lord.
"Lord Folken, they failed.", he said quietly fearing his reaction. He knew that his Lord could be very angry when something went wrong.
"I know.", Folken replied surprising Dilandau.
"How...?", Dilandau started to ask but Folken interupted him.
"I feel it.", he said knowing what his best soldier had wanted to say. "Did you really think it would be so easy to get rid of him?" He gave a laugh.
"Of course not.", Dilandau replied. "These goblins were incapable. A professional should have settled this job. I should have never engaged them. It's my fault. I will take care of the job myself. My unit and I-"
"No.", Folken cut in. "It's not necessary, Dilandau."
"What does My Lord mean?", Dilandau asked taken aback. No outburst?
"It would be a waste of time.", Folken answered coldly. "He is already on his way here. He will arrive in a few days. I can take care of him myself then."
"But it will be quite dangerous. What when someone recognizes him?", Dilandau asked worried.
"Believe me, nobody will recognize him nor will anyone believe him.", he replied. "He will come to me, don't worry."
"As you wish.", Dilandau said and bowed. With a last look at his Lord he left the room.
Folken looked out of the window again. "It's been a long time, Van.", he said quietly. "I'm really looking forward to seeing you again."
.........................................
Hitomi had made a decision. She had made it when they had left the ship in Revod. She had made it when she had seen him mount his horse. She had made it when she had noticed the way she looked at him, when she had noticed the warmth crawling through her entire body by meeting his eyes, when she had noticed that she was thinking of him and only him, when she had noticed that something would happen if she stayed with him. She had to leave him. As soon as possible!
She hadn't said a single word since they had left the ship. They had mounted their horses and were now on their way to Fanelia. She had decided that they would separate there. He would go his way and she would go her own way though she didn't know were this way was. But this time, it didn't matter. The only thing that was important at the moment was that she left him. And ignoring the pain this decision caused in her chest she looked ahead.
She was glad that Dust now was able to carry her weight. She wouldn't have been able to bear sitting behind him again, feeling his warmth again, smelling his scent again. She shook her head. When they reached Fanelia it would be over. No more confusing thoughts because of him, no more confusing feelings because of him. She would forget him. He would be nothing more than a vanishing memory. She would forget his disheveled raven-black hair that always hang into his handsome face, his beautiful rusty coloured eyes which seemed to look straight into her soul, his lips always curved to a mischievous smile, the way he made her feel when he touched her, the way she had felt when she was wrapped in his strong arms, the way she had felt when she awoke beside him, the feeling he caused when he said her name with his soothing voice. She would forget everything.
She blinked trying to stop the burning feeling in the back of her eyes. Yes, everything would end there. The whole way to Fanelia she clinged to this thought. She heard Merle's and Gabriella's chatting voices. They were muffled and sounded as if they came from far away. He said nothing, his face emotionless. She didn't notice that he tensed when they crossed the border of Fanelia. She didn't notice the scent which floated through the air. The scent of fields caressed by the eternal breath of the wind and the gently fingers of the sun. His scent. She didn't notice when they passed the city gates and walked through the crowded streets of Fanelia. Merle's shrieking voice made her finally snap out of it.
"Master Van, this is a wonderful city!", she exclaimed loudly.
Slowly Hitomi turned around to look at him. What she saw surprised her. An incredible sadness lay on his features. He looked around and his lips curved in a sad smile. Why was he sad by seeing the city, by seeing the shining white houses sparkle in the sun, by seeing little children chase each other round their horses? What did make him feel that way?
"What is this beautiful house at the hill up there?", Gabriella asked pointing to the north.
Hitomi didn't look at her. Her gaze rested on his features. She saw him turn around and with spotting the object which had caught the little girl's attention his look changed. The sadness vanished from his face with an unbelievable speed, afraid. Afraid of a mighty feeling which was now flooding through him. A feeling that made him grab the reins so hard that his knuckles striked out white. A feeling that made him grit his teeth, that made his beautiful eyes darken. A feeling that could make you do things you never thought you would be able to do. Hate. It was pure hate which now lay on his features.
"This is the palace of Fanelia.", he said and his voice was so cold Hitomi thought it would freeze the sun right now. She shivered goosebumps covering her skin.
"Fanelia has a king?", Gabriella asked not noticing the change in Van's behaviour.
"No.", he said icily.
"But who rules the country when there is no king?", the girl continued.
"A traitor rules this country. A man who sacraficed innocent lives to get what he wanted.", Van replied staring at the palace. "Only a few days are left until he will be crowned. But the crown he will receive is blood- stained."
Hitomi looked at him with wide eyes. What was he talking about? "What do you mean by that?", she heard herself ask.
"I heard about it.", Merle answered instead of him, her voice serious. "It is said that nearly thirteen years ago the king died. It was only a few days after the prophecy had been made. The right to rule had been given to the younger one of the two sons of the king. Then they were attacked by an unknown enemy. The king died and probably his wife and his youngest son too but their bodies could not be found. They had disappeared. The only one left of the royal family was the older son. But he was not allowed to rule his land as a king. It wasn't proved that the younger son, the legitimate king, was dead. So he had to wait as Fanelian law orders until the thirteen years have passed and the legitimate king has not appeared."
"What happened to the queen and the younger son?", Gabriella asked captured by Merle's story.
"Some people say they died and their bodies were hid somewhere nobody could find them.", Merle answered. "But some others say that they are still alive and that the younger son will return before his brother could be crowned to claim of his right to be king. The same people say that the older brother was the one who sent the army to kill the king. They say that he was angry that destiny choose his brother instead of him."
"And is it true?", Gabriella whispered.
"I don't know.", the cat-girl replied. "But supposing it's true, the young king must hurry if he wants to stop his brother. In a few days, there will be the coronation. Look, they are already preparing the marketplace."
The blond haired girl looked around and saw a lot of men dismantle stands to make room for some kind of stage. Women were decorating their houses with the crest of Fanelia. The whole place shimmered in red and yellow. Hitomi still watched him. Van's features haven't changed. They were cold and expressionless.
"So Master Van, this is your destination.", Merle said and jumped off Gabriella's horse. "What do you want to do here?"
Hitomi blinked. This was the city he wanted to reach? This was the city he had been born? This was the place someone had tried to keep him away from? What could he want...she gasped. A thought entered her mind. Maybe...maybe he was the...? She gave a laugh. What a stupid idea! Him? A king? A mule would be a better king than him! She would have laughed out loud about this comparison if she hadn't spotted Merle, Gabriella and even Van look at her suspiciously just then.
"Hitomi, what's so funny?", Gabriella asked making Hitomi shake her head hastily.
"It's nothing.", she replied and jumped off Dust.
She inhaled deeply and looked around. Yes, it was definitely a beautiful city.
"What do you want to do now, Hitomi?", Van asked seriously.
She stopped looking around. Yes, what would she do now? Leave! Leave him! That was of prime importance at the moment. She could wait for Thetis' next hint in every other city on that planet if only he wasn't near her.
"I have something to settle here.", he said when she didn't answer. "Maybe you want to wait and then I can help you search this whatever you're searching."
"No!", she said determined still looking at the city not at him. "No. I'm leaving. I'm leaving now."
She knew if she stayed any longer it would only get harder. If she continued looking at him, in his beautiful eyes she would never be able to leave him. She had to turn around right now without hesitating, without doubting, without looking at him again. And that was what she did right then.
"Farewell.", she said turning around without looking up. Hastily she grabbed Dust's reins dragging him away from the others and disappeared into the crowd.
"Hitomi, wait!", Gabriella shouted grabbing Rhea's reins. "You can't just leave like this! Wait!"
Merle followed the girl with her eyes when she dashed after Hitomi. She was dumbfounded. What had just happened? She turned around to face Van and became even more confused by seeing him smile.
Gabriella had lost sight of Hitomi the moment she ran into a group of people. She called out for the Amazon without success. Hitomi could hear the girl call her name quite clear but she didn't react. She felt like crying. Crying because of boundless pain. It felt like a dagger was pricked into her heart and with every step she took it was twisted a bit more. But why? Why did she feel that way? Because she left these two people? They were still strangers and she didn't really like them. Yes, she didn't like them!
Suddenly, a picture flashed before her eyes. The picture of a person. Wild black hair, honest reddish-brown eyes and captivating lips curved into a sad smile. She stopped shocked. Why was she thinking of him? Of course, they had shared some special moments but could this be an explanation for the feeling crawling through her? she had felt it before. It was when her mother had died. The feeling that you lost an important part of your life, a part of your heart. Something was missing. There was a deep, black hole somewhere deep inside her. She felt it. But why? Because of him? No! It couldn't be! It shouldn't be!
And at that moment she wanted to cry. Only cry. Cry to wash this feeling out of her. This feeling which held her heart in a death grip, that feeling which hurted her so much. She didn't want to feel it again. She blinked the tears away and looked defiantly into the sky. No, she won't cry. Not because of him. She hated him! She must hate him!
"Hey Hitomi!", she heard a familiar voice calling her name. Her eyes widened.
"Hitomi!", the voice said again, this time close behind her. Why did he follow her? She hated him!
She spun around to face him. "What?", she barked. Van smirked. Oh, it suited him so much.
"Same Hitomi as usual.", he said grinning making Hitomi snort and glare daggers at him. "I forgot something. It'll cost my life but I think it's worth it.", he said cryptically.
Hitomi looked at him distrusting. Suddenly he closed the gap between the two of them with one step and encircled her waist with his left arm. She was too surprised to react in time. Van pressed her against his body. She tried to escape by bracing herself against him.
"Van, what are you doing?", she asked annoyed beating his chest and felt the outlines of his muscles under his shirt. It was useless, he was simply stronger than her and didn't waste a single thought about letting her go. Instead of releasing his grip he gently cupped her chin with his right hand and lifted it making her look straight into his eyes. Hitomi fought.
"Don't be afraid.", Van said softly.
Hitomi's eyes widened, her hands resting on his chest. She looked directly into his eyes. His beautiful eyes. She blinked. What was this in his eyes? She never saw it before. It wasn't his usual mocking look he always gave her when they argued. She jerked lightly when he closed his eyes bending down. Panic flodded through her and her heartbeat fastened. She thought her heart would burst within the next seconds.
"Wha-", she started to say trying to push him off but was silenced by his lips. Her almost bursting heart stopped beating, her breath was caught in her throat and a feeling was overwhelming her, she couldn't describe. But it was so wonderful. It was the most wonderful feeling she ever experienced. Feeling him so unbelievable close, her defense melted away like an ice-cube in the summersun.
She closed her eyes. She couldn't resist anymore, she didn't want to resist anymore. He was just about to let go, to break this wonderful moment in time when she suddenly leaned in.
Van's eyes shot open. He couldn't believe what she was doing. He had expected her to slap him but instead of that she kissed him back! He smiled against her lips, closing his eyes. He pulled her slowly closer and ever so slightly deepened the kiss. Hitomi wasn't thinking anymore. She couldn't think, everything she was able to do at the moment was enjoying. Enjoying this blissful moment. Yes, now she could define the feeling. Bliss. Pure bliss.
They stood there in the middle of the marketplace kissing and holding each other as if they never would let go. The world had stopped breathing and the time had stopped flowing for them. At that moment there were only the two of them at this planet. They didn't notice the people walking by, looking at the couple with a smile on their lips. They wondered what might be the reason for such a kiss. Maybe they haven't seen each other for a long time and now were happy to see each other again or maybe he was a merchant going on a long journey leaving his love behind.
If it only was this way. If it only was this way. But it wasn't. It really wasn't that simple. She was an Amazon who's teachings forbid her to do what she was doing right now. An Amazon on her way to fulfill a goddess' wish. A wish really hard to fulfill. An Amazon who found something she never expected to find. She found someone who lost beloved ones, someone who knew what hate was, someone who knew what loneliness was, someone who was almost as stubborn as herself-someone just like her and yet so different.
But everything had to end even the most wonderful moment she ever experienced. After what seemed like an eternity they parted. Reluctantly. Breathing hard, Hitomi leaned against him. She felt her cheeks burning and her heart beating rapidly. Licking her tingling lips she could still taste him. She felt him tighten the embrace around her waist and rest his chin on the top of her head. She felt save and warm, his heartbeat soothing her. She hated him!
Taking a deep breath, Hitomi took a step back and looked up at him. She looked him straight in the eyes. There was this look again she couldn't identify. But at that moment it didn't matter. She hated him! Without hesitating, she raised her arm and slapped him hard across the face. When he opened his eyes again she was gone. He rubbed his cheek and smiled sadly. Yes, it definitely had been worth it.
"Goodbye, Hitomi."
.........................................
ASDASDFAS(): Thank you!!!! Hope you liked it!
LW: Glad you like the 'new' Hitomi. And your middle name is Alexandros? That's such a beautiful name! I wonder how your first name is. As far as I can remember you once said that you don't like it. And yes, Merle is very stupid but hey it wouldn't be Merle if she hadn't stayed with him, would it? Yay! I'm happy you like the story and thanks for reviewing!
???: Yup, your German was really good!!! Dankeschön für das Lob!!!! Glad you like the story. You couldn't stop reading? blushs madly And I like fluff too!!! Fluff rulez!!!! Can't get enough of it!!!!
hitomi21: Oh yeah, I love them together too! V/H forever!!!! Thanks for reviewing!!!!
SabineballZ: Hi du! Tut mir ja wirklich leid, dass Van in die selbe Richtung muss wie Hitomi! Pff sich weg dreh um zu schmollen Nur'n Scherzerl'. Hehe. Freut mich, dass es dir noch immer gefällt.
Aeka-himme: blushs hard Glad, you like it! I'm really really glad, believe me. I was so worried that you may not like it! But you did like it!!!! jumps around like there is no tomorrow and giggles like there is no day after tomorrow You're right I really concentrated on Hitomi's character and neglected my beloved Van!!!! clings to Van's leg Please forgive me, Van!!!!! I promise I'll improve!!!! Hehe. And don't worry, this points at end of chapter 7 isnt your fault. I had this on my mind for a long time. I simply couldn't let them be together grins evily The two of them (Van and Hitomi) wouldn't have allowed me to continue the story the way I want! giggles I hope you survived the end and don't be afraid it's still V/H!!!!!
Paige Moonsword: Yes, you definitely should feel guilty and yes, you REALLY should hurry and update!!!!!! glares at Paige Update, girl!!!! And I agree, it would have been really strange if Van and Hitomi would already have gotten together. But it's so damn hard to NOT make them get together. Argh! I hope you liked the ending. They're still not together! Hehe. And thanks again for the review. I'm really happy that you liked it. Happy happy happy happy!!!!!
Ruby: Yay, you liked it! And don't worry, I'll bring them together soon. It's a torture for me too seeing them not being together! Grrrr, why did I make Hitomi so stubborn? grumbles So, something pretty? I hope my idea is pretty
CRAZY Dragon: ganz rot werd Find ich ja klasse, dass dir meine kleine Geschichte gefällt g Und jap, ich verstehe Deutsch. Ich hatt's am Anfang schonmal irgendwo erwähnt gehabt, ich komm nämlich aus Deutschland. Jaja, die Welt ist klein, nicht wahr?! Und nochmals danke danke danke danke für das Lob. Hab mich tierisch drüber gefreut. Und ich würd mich auch freuen, wenn ich wieder mal von dir lesen würde
Silver Magiccraft: Glad you like my story and the length of it. I often feared that nobody would read it because it's so long. But you like it!!! I'm happy happy happy!!!! Thanx!!!!!!!
van lover(): Hehe. I bet you heard it a lot of times but I must say it: I love your name!!!! g Thank you!!!!!
naru(): Thanx for telling me Glad you like it and I hope you like how it went on too!!!
A/N: grins from ear to ear I hope you all liked the ending. I do! Nyarharharharhar!!! Am I evil or what? I'm so happy I could write this!!!!! YAY!!! hides behind desk Don't flame me! Flame her!!!! shoves Hitomi a step ahead Is this girl stupid or what? Van kisses her and she slaps him!!! If I were Hitomi...drools I really wish I were her!!! blushs Well...er...what did I want to say? Yes, PLEASE TELL ME IF YOU LIKED IT!!!!!!! I need to know!!!! Tell me, tell me, tell me, tell me!!!!!! Review!!!!! Please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
See ya next chapter!!!! waves
Bye Dariel
Love you people and thank you so much for reviewing!!!! My special thanks are at the end of the chapter.
DISCLAIMER: I don't own grumbles
Chapter 7 Paths separate...
"Which one is our ship, Hitomi?", cried a very excited Gabriella tugging madly at Hitomi's arm and dragging poor Rhea behind her.
"I don't know. The name is 'Mermaid'.", Hitomi replied slightly annoyed.
"We should have let Van lead us to the ship.", the little girl stated making Hitomi snort.
Never would she accept help from him! She would find that damn ship on her own even if it was the last she did! Why the hell were there so many ships? Weren't ten of them enough? Noooo, there were hundreds of them! Hundreds and hundreds of ships and they all looked similar! Giant wooden hulls with masts which seemed to touch the sky and white sails waving gently in the soft breeze. The ships didn't look like they were just about to sail over the ocean but to sail through the air carried by the wind. Lots of men were loading the ones which would sail soon. Tons of boxes flanked the pier filled with exotic wares.
Hitomi's gaze trailed over the hull of the next ship at this neverending pier searching the name. "Please, be the 'Mermaid'.", she begged quietly. 'White Dragon'. Argh! She wanted to tear her hair! She wanted to tear Gabriella's hair. This girl was driving her nuts! Babbling the whole time without even breathing! Even Merle would be a better company. But when she was just about to grab the girl's beautiful hair she stopped in the middle of her tracks and turned around looking at the ship she had just passed. That name! Where had she heard that name before? It seemed so familiar. After a few seconds of intensely staring she shrugged and turned away. She was just imagining things.
Hitomi sighed. Only five piers more to check out. When she sourrounded another ship that wasn't the one she searched a beautiful wooden woman suddenly smiled at her. The Amazon looked down the perfectly carved body and saw that a long, swung fin replaced her legs. Hitomi shrieked mentally seeing the name at the side of the hull belonging to the wodden beauty. It was the 'Mermaid'. Finally she had found the ship which would carry her to the Easterly Continent. Without his help!
"Hah! See Gabriella, I found the ship without Van's help. I don't need him!", she exclaimed proudly.
"Yeah, I see. And you only needed one and a half hour more.", said a more than familiar voice from the side.
Hitomi spun around and spotted Van sitting cross-legged on a pile of boxes grinning from ear to ear. She snarled angrily and turned away. She heard him chuckle and jump down the pile.
"Merle is already at the ship reserving three boxes for the horses and cabins for us.", he said reaching her.
"Merle is at the ship?", Gabriella asked excited and Van nodded in response. "I'm gonna search her!", she shrieked and ran up the stage leading to the deck dragging her horse along.
"I won't sleep in a cabin beside you!", hissed Hitomi when the little girl was out of sight.
"I don't think that you're in the position to claim.", he replied mocking. "You're probably the last one entering the ship and there won't be much cabins left. You can be glad that Merle is so kind and reserves a cabin for the two of you, too."
Hitomi snorted. "She doesn't need to do so. I can find one for my own.", she stated. Who was she accepting help from that cat-girl?
"Yeah, sure. Like you found that ship, right?", Van said and took a step away expecting her to beat him. When he saw that she didn't jump at his teasing he started another attempt. "And I still wonder were you got these tickets from. I bet you stole them from a poor old lady. But I know, it's none of my business.", he ended awaiting her outburst.
But Hitomi remained silent. He's not worth it! Swallowing her reply she grabbed Dust's reins and started walking towards the stage. Van saw it and followed her signaling Tarik standing beside the pile of boxes to join him.
"Yo 'Tomi, wait for me!", he called after her.
The Amazon stopped at the base of the stage hearing him call her by her nickname, her heart skipping a beat. She was used to be called that way. Then, why did she feel so strange? Why was it so different hearing him say it? Why did she want him to say it again? No! She shook her head. She didn't want him to say it again!
"Everything alright, 'Tomi?", Van asked when he reached her seeing that she looked kinda absent.
"Don't call me that!", she hissed feeling her heartbeat fasten when he stood close beside her.
"Call you what, 'Tomi?", he replied as innocently as a little child.
She turned around and glared at him but he just smiled making her knees shake. He did this with full intention. He wanted her to start an argue with him. But she wouldn't do him this favour! He is not worth it! But she couldn't just walk off without a steep reply. He would call her a coward again. But did it matter what he thought of her? Actually it shouldn't but could she accept being defeated by a man in a verbal fight? No!
"You know what, Van?", she said turning away and started to walk off. "I'm very impressed. I mean you can't swim and we're just going to cross a giant ocean. There will be nothing but water around you. In every direction you look is water. Water, water, water. And imagine,", she made a dramatical pause, "there would be a storm! I don't believe that the ship could resist these waves. It's only made of wood. I would be afraid of drowning.", she ended grinning and turned around expecting to face Van.
She frowned when she faced nothing but air. There was no Van. She turned around completely and bursted into laughter. The picture infront of her was priceless. There he stood at the base of the stage, his horse beside him. Both looked at her absolutely baffled their mouths half opened in disbelieve. Hitomi tried to stop laughing but she simply couldn't.
"You should see your faces! Don't tell me you never thought of that fact!", she managed to say between stiffled giggles.
"You didn't!", she exclaimed nasty seeing him blinking in confusion. "Hah, Mister Mighty Novadi is afraid of placing a foot on this fragile ship!"
"I'm not afraid of anything!", Van defended himself.
"Oh really?", Hitomi replied mocking. "Prove it!"
Van snarled and grabbed Tarik's reins stepping determined on the stage. He couldn't make another step. By trying it he was forcefully stopped by a very reluctant Tarik who didn't waste a single thought of entering that ship. The Novadi turned around and glared at his friend.
"Tarik, what do you think you're doing?", he asked growling. The horse only shook his head hard making his mane fly through the air.
"She only tries to take the piss out of us.", Van continued pointing at a wild grinning Hitomi. "You make a fool of you infront of her." And as if stressing this statement of him Dust snorted loudly and it sounded like malicious joy.
"Look, even he thinks you're a coward! What about your honour?", he asked Tarik tugging at his reins. The horse glanced unsure at the woman and the other horse standing on the stage. Seeing them smile sardonic he neiged out loud and stepped on the stage. Together the two of them walked past Hitomi their heads lifted proudly. 'You better watch out or your heads will hit the sky.', Hitomi thought with a smile. But she had seen the expression on Van's face and she could say he really wasn't sure of what to think of that ship. Sure, she hadn't seen a ship before too but he had a personal dislike against water. But then again, it wasn't her problem! Determined, she straightened and walked the rest of the way up to the deck.
Oh hell, that were a lot of people! The deck was nearly completely filled. Some were searching their property between all the boxes standing at the deck, others discussed loudly and their voices caused a continuous hum floating in the air. Slowly she crossed the deck trying not to step on someone. She swallowed and the thought that she was stuck at that ship together with all these strange people for the whole crossing made her shudder.
Gabriella came running towards Hitomi waving her hands through the air. Hitomi could only shake her head. Although she was miles away from home and her friends, although there were so many people around her she didn't know, although she didn't know what would await her at the other end of this ocean there was a bright and genuine smile on her face which reached her eyes. She seemed completely happy.
"Hitomi, come!", she chanted and grabbed Hitomi's arm. "I lead you to the stabbles."
Hitomi smiled and let the blond-haired girl drag her across the deck. They reached huge wooden doors a ramp following behind them which led down into the hull of the ship. It was quite dim and it smelled of horses. Hitomi guessed that the stabbles couldn't be very far away.
"It's over there.", Gabriella said pointing towards a box ahead. "Van and Merle are already there."
The Amazon spotted Van standing in the box beside Tarik tapping him and Merle leaning against the wall. It was very narrow. There was only a small hallway between the boxes for the horses and the wall. Hitomi led Dust into the box beside Tarik's one and fastened the reins. They were silent. When they were finished the four of them left the stabbles in order to find their cabins.
Merle and Gabriella were infront of her chatting loudly. They were walking one behind the other because the hallways were as narrow as the ones at the stabbles. Hitomi felt as if she was in a trap. She hated this ship. And she felt Van's eyes in her back! He was walking behind her and she hated it, too! Scolding mentally Hitomi stopped and stepped aside.
"Go ahead.", she snarled.
Van chuckled. "What's the matter? Don't you trust me?", he asked innocently but Hitomi only glared at him. "Okay okay.", he said and brushed past her but right at that moment the ship jolted. Hitomi fell backwards but fortunately the wall caught her and Van who had been directly beside her stumbled and fell towards her. He pressed his hands to the left and the right of Hitomi's head against the wall trying to steady himself. Hitomi didn't move. She stared with wide green eyes straight into Van's reddish brown ones. His face was only centimeters away from her and she could feel his breath tickle over her skin. She felt her cheeks burn and she was sweating madly. Why was it so hot in there all of a sudden? Her gaze left his intense eyes and trailed down his face over his nose, his slightly blushed cheeks to his lips. Once again she was captured by them. They fascinated her in a way she neither could explain nor understand. Her mouth was dry as sandpaper and she absently licked her lips.
It seemed like an eternity until Van finally spoke. "Seems like the ship picked up speed.", he said and pushed himself off the wall making Hitomi snap out of her trance-like state. She let out the breath she didn't know she was holding and placed a hand over her wild beating heart. What had just happened? Looking up she saw Van walking away following the two girls to the cabins. The Amazon took a deep breath and followed them, too. She passed a lot of small doors with numbers on them. Loud voices could be heard from behind them. They were all occupied! She could forget to find another cabin. Like it or not but she would have to take the cabin Merle reserved. Dammit! But she wouldn't thank her!
.........................................
She stepped on the deck and inhaled deeply, the fresh and salty air filling her lungs. She couldn't deny that she liked that air. A soft breeze desheveled her hair and she streched noisily. That cabin was so damn narrow. She felt like a prisoner in it. Maybe she would sleep under the sky instead of sleeping in that cell. Slowly she scanned the deck. Most of the people were now resting in their cabins and the deck was nearly empty. The few people left were sitting in the shadows of the innumerable boxes relaxing. Enjoying the wonderful day. Hitomi decided to walk to the railing.
Reaching the port side of the ship she encircled the railing with her fingers feeling the wet wood under her skin. She spotted a flock of seagulls accompanying the ship, waiting patiently for food to be thrown over board. She glanced over the sparkling blue expanse infront of her. The reflexion of the sunlight made her squint. There was really nothing around her but water. It seemed endless making her feel very small. But she liked it. This was a place where she could forget everything. There were no problems, no other people, only the ocean and herself. For a few moments she could relax and forget why she was here and what had happened to her before. She listened to the sound of the waves swepping against the hull making the ship rock softly up and down. The wind carried small drops of water through the air to her face. Licking her lips she tasted the salt. It was when she suddenly felt a familiar feeling crawling through her body. It tingeled reaching to her toes and fingertips causing goosebumps. She felt her heart beat strongly in her chest. It didn't fasten but she could feel every beat intensely.
Slowly she turned around and saw the reason of the strange behaviour of her body. He leaned at the railing looking at the ocean. At once the feelings started to struggle within her again tying a double knot in her innards. But he looked so terribly lonely and she knew exactly how he felt. Guilty and angry. Guilty because of being not able to prevent it and angry because of the ones who did this to him. Without realizing she made two steps in his direction but then stopped. What was she doing? Feeling pity for him? No, it was understanding. She wouldn't do anything forbidden if she walked over to him. Yes, she would do nothing forbidden if she only stood beside him. Hesitantly she made another step. It didn't hurt so why was she so hesitant? It was only Van!
Taking a deep breath she walked over to him and leaned over the railing beside him. Her heart beating in her throat, she glanced at him out of the corner of her eyes but she couldn't see his expression because his pitch- black hair was hiding his face. She sighed and tried to calm down. It's only Van! A small smile crossed her face. This was a perfect situation for him to try to break through her wall again. She expected him to ask her one of his stupid questions within the next seconds. But he remained silent. Hitomi frowned and glanced at him again. At least he should have teased her like he always did but he didn't. Someone should make him snap out of it. And she decided to be the one.
"It's beautiful, isn't it?", she said quietly directing her gaze at the ocean but he didn't react. Maybe she should lure him on a bit. Only a bit.
"I like the ocean very much.", she continued. "I feel free when I look at it. I can forget all of the problems I have. I like to stand here at the deck and gaze at this endless expanse. I like the sound of the waves and the scent of the air. I could stand here for the rest of m life. And what are you doing here?", she finally asked and this time he reacted.
Hitomi saw out of the corner of her eyes Van turn towards her. She smiled widely. Hah, he swallowed the bait! She knew it! A triumphant grin plastered on her face she turned around but as soon as she faced him the grin vanished and was replaced by a look of pure shock. She gasped and put her hand over her mouth holding her breath. His breath was heavy, his once sparkling rusty coloured eyes were now dull and glassy, sweat covered his forehead his hair sticking to his face and his tanned skin was...was...dammit, was it green? His skin had the colour of an ominous pale green!
"Feeding the fishes.", he answered her question slightly annoyed.
"Oh my...V-Van?", she stuttered. "Wha-what's wrong with you?"
He gave a laugh and turned away. "Since when are you so worried about me?", he asked.
"You look awful!", Hitomi stated concerned.
"Thank you very much.", Van replied swallowing hard and faced her. "But don't worry, it's nothing. I'm fine.", he added seeing her look at him distrusting.
Taking a deep breath he pushed himself off the railing wheezing. But when his hands left the supporting railing he stumbled and fell over, groaning. Hitomi took quickly a step ahead and catched him before he could hit the ground. But he didn't make it easy for her. Her knees gave way and she fell to the wooden ground, Van leaning against her shoulder. He wheezed loudly and Hitomi could feel him tremble in her arms.
"Van, what's wrong?", she asked again but this time she wouldn't accept an 'I'm fine.'
"My head is spinning.", he groaned into her shoulder. "I feel so dizzy and sick. Hitomi, make it st...", his voice trailed off when he lost consiciousness in her arms.
Hitomi shook him hard when she felt him getting limp. What the hell was wrong with him? She turned the young man around and tapped his hot cheek calling his name but he didn't react. He only continued wheezing and trembling. What should she do? She wasn't a doctor or anything like that. She couldn't help him! Panic began to rise inside her. Maybe he was about to die and she couldn't do anything! Her heart was beating madly and she was breathing hard. Help! She needed help! Her head shot up and her green, with worry filled eyes scanned the deck searching for someone to help her. And then, Hitomi spotted her. Never before had she been so happy to see her.
"Merle!", she yelled. "Go and search a doctor!"
"Why should I...", the pink haired cat-girl started to complain approaching but then saw Van's limp body lying in Hitomi's arms. "What did you do to him? You hurt Master Van!", she shrieked outraged.
"I did nothing.", Hitomi shouted angrily. "Now GO and search a doctor!"
The cat-girl jerked back but didn't reply when she saw the look in Hitomi's eyes. It was something which Merle never expected the Amazon to feel towards Van. Worry. Her eyes begged her to help. And it made Merle believe her. The cat-girl then nodded bending down on all fours and dashed off.
Hitomi sighed and looked down at Van. She shifted a bit letting his head rest in her lap. Softly she touched his forehead and felt the heat of his skin. He was burning.
"Hold out.", she whispered softly into his ear. "Hold out."
.........................................
'What has gotten into me?', Hitomi thought tightening the grip around the wooden railing making her knuckles strike out white. She couldn't believe she acted that way. What had happened to her? She didn't know herself anymore. Where was the tough Hitomi she once had been? Where was the Hitomi managing coolly every problem? The only thing which was left of the young woman who had been an Amazon with all her heart was a weak girl who couldn't even sort out her feelings. She sighed desperately. What did he do to her?
She had been so worried when he had just fainted and she couldn't explain it. She had seen him lay helplessly in her lap, his face so pale and she simply hadn't been able to think rational anymore. Everything that had been on her mind at that moment was he. Van. The stupid guy who always teased her, who didn't take her serious, who turned her insides upside down. The thought that something could have happened to him had made her crazy. She had wanted to help him at any costs and not for the first time she must admit. She had thrown herself against him to save him from an arrow and she had jumped into a lake to save him from drowning. And she had done all this without even thinking. She could have died by trying to save him but at that very moment it had been absolutely unimportant. Her life had been unimportant.
Crying out in frustration Hitomi chased this stupid thought away. How could she dare thinking that? The life of an Amazon was always more precious than the life of a man! And nobody would change it! Nobody, especially not he!
"So, you are here.", said a gentle voice from aside.
Hitomi turned around and spotted a young woman standing beside her smiling genuinely. Her beautiful face was framed by long blond hair tamed by a pink ribbon in a loose pony-tail which swept softly in the wind. She wore a simple, light-blue dress with short sleeves. Nothing seemed special about her despite her beauty- to inattentive eyes. Attentive eyes could see the small, silver ring at the thumb of her right hand. But it wasn't any ordinary ring. The fine letters and the snake on it identified her as a member of the best doctors league on Gaea. The Medi.
"Where else should I be, Millerna?", Hitomi replied after a short moment of silence and turned away.
The woman smiled and joined her. "Don't you want to know how your friend is?", Millerna asked curiously. She was the one Merle brought along after Hitomi had send the cat-girl to search a doctor.
"No.", Hitomi answered harshly. "I'm not interested in it and...", her voice trailed off when she realized what she just did. "...he's not my friend.", she finished her sentece quietly. Her heart was beating hard. Why hadn't she said that he wasn't her friend at first? She had said that she wasn't interested at first. Why? She should have said that he wasn't her friend like a shot! She should have said it without hesitating! What did this mean?
"Really?", Millerna said making Hitomi snap out of her thoughts. "But for not being your friend you were pretty worried."
"What? I was not worried!", the Amazon nearly shrieked blushing furiously.
Millerna saw it but decided not to go into the particulars of it. "Well then, maybe you don't wanna hear it but Van is fine.", she said and it was a load off Hitomi's mind. No! It wasn't, it wasn't, it wasn't!!!!
"He is only seasick.", the female Medi told her. "Okay, he looks pretty bad and feels very sick and obviously he'll be sick for the whole crossing but I think it'll be over as soon as he leaves this ship. It seems he's not built to sail. I've never seen such an extreme seasickness like his one."
Hitomi smiled. Of course, he wasn't built to sail. He was a Novadi. She should have known. So, Van would be confined to bed until they reached their destination. It was funny to imagine and she bet he didn't like it.
"You're an Amazon, right?", Millerna suddenly asked.
Hitomi looked at her. "Yes.", she said shortly. Was it that obvious?
"You may wonder how I could know it.", Millerna replied. "But the way you move, the way you speak, your whole behaviour just isn't the one of an ordinary woman. An aura of strength and self-confidence always sourrounds you. I saw you when you entered this ship and...", she sighed, "...I envy you, you know."
Hitomi studied the young Medi intensely. Why should this woman envy her?
"But there is one thing I don't understand.", Millerna then said and looked with her ocean-blue eyes directly into Hitomi's sparkling green ones. "I thought Amazons hate men. But you and Van-"
"I said he means nothing to me.", Hitomi interupted her sharply. He meant absolutely nothing to her and he never would! "You seem very young to be a Medi.", Hitomi said trying to change the topic.
The smile on Millerna's face vanished and was replaced by a serious look. "Yes, I am.", she replied and sighed leaning on the railing. She was silent for a moment and it seemed she was deciding if she could tell more or not. But then she took a deep breath and began to speak. "I left my home and my family some years ago.", she said quietly. "I wanted to make my dream come true and become a doctor. I always wanted to help people, you know. But my father didn't allow it. Of course, he had a reason to act that way, I had duties to fulfill, a life to live. But I didn't want to live this life. And so, there was only one solution for my problem. I ran away."
Why did everyone suddenly have the urge to tell her about their problems? She didn't ask them to tell her everything about their lives! At first Van and now Millerna.
"I ran away from my duties like a coward.", Millerna continued. "I studied in Alexandria. I think I was pretty good and that's why I got the opportunity to finish my study under the charge of a very talented Medi. And then I became one of them.", she said and looked at the delicate ring on her slim finger. "To become a Medi was my biggest dream. I never believed that it would ever come true. And now I am a Medi and I'm not happy. Strange, isn't it?", she ended and looked at the ocean.
"Are you on your way home now?", Hitomi asked feeling that she should say something.
"No.", Millerna answered. "I received a letter from my father. He said that something had happened and that he needed my help in Freid."
"Freid.", Hitomi mused. "I've heard a lot about this country."
"Yes, it's wonderful.", Millerna replied and a small smile crept over her features. "My nephew lives there with his father and I'm on my way to them. I haven't seen the little boy for a long time. I wonder if he grew a lot. He must be eight years old now."
Hitomi remained silent. How she envied this woman. She was so strong. She had left her family to live her dream and now when her family needs her the most she is on her way to return, to give herself up.
"And what are you doing here?", Millerna asked turning around to face her.
"I'm searching for someone.", she answered quietly and sighed.
"A special someone?", Millerna continued to ask.
Hitomi shrugged. "I don't know him, her, whatever.", she said. "I was asked to find this whatever it is and to help them."
"Wow, you came the whole way from Skythia to here without even knowing where you could find this being?", the Medi asked impressed and Hitomi nodded.
"I could have never done this.", the blond-haired woman stated. "I could never leave my home without knowing what to do. I'm too afraid to do something like that."
"But you're strong! You-", Hitomi started to complain but was interupted by Millerna.
"No, I left my home with knowing what I would do.", she said determined. "I'm not strong, I'm a coward. But you, you are everything I always wanted to be. A strong woman who can take care of herself, who isn't dependant on someone else, who isn't afraid of leaving her home without knowing where to go, who doesn't run away from her problems."
Hitomi said nothing. Instead she turned away from Millerna's intense gaze biting her lips. What should she reply? She was nothing of what Millerna thought she was. She was the complete contrary. She was weak and afraid. But she couldn't admit it. See, she was like a coward again! If she was strong she would have admitted her weakness. She would have said that she wasn't worth being called an Amazon. She would have said that she wasn't good enough being send on this mission. But she said nothing.
.........................................
Folken stood at one of the giant windows in a hall somewhere in Fanelia's palace. His head rested against the glass and he felt the coolness from outside. He gazed at the city beneath him but he didn't notice it. Although his eyes were open he didn't see a thing. He was lost in his thoughts. Penthesilea and her army had set out this morning before dawn. He hadn't been able to see her again and he hadn't said goodbye. He hadn't been able to caress her soft cheek once more, hadn't been able to stroke her silky hair, hadn't been able to look into her boundless grey eyes, hadn't been able to capture her lips with his own ones.
He had never thought that a woman would ever make him feel like this. A small smile crept upon his face. Yes, she was special. She wasn't like any woman he had met during his whole life. He remembered the day he had seen her the first time as if it had been yesterday.
flashback
"Do you really think it is such a good idea to help the Amazons, Lord Folken?", said Isaac looking at the battlefield infront of him.
"Of course, it is a good idea.", replied Folken standing at the railing of his airship which was landing at the moment. "When these Orcs are defeated the queen will owe me something. And this will be very useful in future."
Folken glanced one last time across the land under him and then left his position walking towards the landing stage. He had gotten the news that the Amazons had been attacked and were about to lose the war not too long ago. He had decided to help them. Walking down the landing stage he spotted three Amazons sitting on horses awaiting him.
"You placed your foot on the ground of the kingdom of Skythia without permission! Who are you and what do you want here?", one of them with shining red hair asked making her horse take a step ahead.
"This is-", Isaac who just reached Folken's side started to say but was cut in by his Lord.
"I can speak for myself, thank you Isaac.", he said. "I'm Lord Folken of Fanelia and I'm here to speak with your queen.", he then answered.
"Our Queen is fighting but you can wait for her at the camp. Follow me.", she said and turned around.
Isaac ordered a soldier to bring two horses. When he returned they mounted and followed the Amazon who was just about to diappear behind the trees of a nearby forest.
"What about the two other Amazons?", Folken asked when he reached her.
"They stay there to keep an eye on your men.", she replied harshly.
Folken smiled. Amazons! Not trusting any man on this planet. But it didn't matter, sooner or later they would fight together that was for sure. A few minutes later the trees revealed a huge clearing. It was filled with lots of tents and hundreds of wounded women. They came to a halt and dismounted. Some Amazons walked over to them and talked with the red-haired woman.
At that moment a group of Amazons arrived at the camp. Two of them were supporting a badly injured woman. She was bleeding extremely and Folken guessed she wouldn't survive the next hour. Another Amazon was walking beside them. His gaze rested on her. She wore the typical armor of an Amazon. Green boots with iron plates protecting her shins and knees. A skirt with a belt around her slim waist, a blood-covered sword hanging at her side. Blood covered her chest armor, her scratched arms, parts of her face and the feathers which once adorned her iron helmet.
But the most unusual thing about her was the crying being she held in her arms. It was a girl of six years he guessed with sandy brown hair. She was beating the woman with all her strength and tried to free herself out of the grip. Unsuccessfully. The Amazon walked past him and he could see her face. It was scratched but beautiful. And then he saw her eyes. It were the most beautiful eyes he had ever seen. They were grey and incredibly sad. Never had he seen such sad eyes.
"Bring her away from here, Kallisto.", the grey-eyed beauty said to an Amazon standing beside him.
Kallisto took the still crying girl out of her arms and looked at the woman infront of her with a worried look. "What happened?", she asked confused.
"She's dead.", the woman replied flatly and Folken saw something sparkle in her eyes. "Now go."
Kallisto nodded her eyes wide in shock and turned away. Slowly the grey- eyed woman raised her hands and took off her helmet. Shining black hair appeared and fell on her hips. Folken stopped breathing and and stared at the angel infront of him imprinting her picture in his mind. He gasped when she suddenly turned towards him and looked straight into his eyes. The young, red-haired Amazon came running towards her and whispered something into the beauty's ear. At once her look darkened and anger filled her eyes. She shoved the young woman out of her way and walked over to him.
"What do you want here?", she barked when she reached him.
Folken snapped out of his trance and grinned. "I'm here to talk to your queen.", he said.
"I'm the queen. What do you want?", she replied her anger increasing.
Folken raised his brows in surprise but then bowed deeply. "Nice to meet you, Queen Penthesilea. I'm here to offer my help in fighting the Orcs.", Folken stated.
"I don't need your help! Take your army and leave!", she said causing Folken to look around the camp. Everything he saw were wounded Amazons.
"Really?", he asked suspiciously. "They don't look like they are able to continue fighting."
Penthesilea was just about to shot back when a completely exhausted horse with a blood covered Amazon sitting in the saddle arrived.
"Lelia!", the queen cried and ran towards the Amazon.
"The Orcs defeated the northern front.", Lelia said between deep breaths. "They'll soon be here."
Penthesilea's eyes widened in shock gazing around the camp. Never would they survive such an attack! They were all wounded! It would be a massacre! Her eyes finally found Folken grinning at her making her snort. She knew exactly why she hated these arrogant men. Thinking they were the best and strongest.
"You know you wouldn't survive it.", Folken said matter-of-factly.
The Amazon glared at him. Of course did she know! She wasn't stupid! What did this stupid guy think of her and why was he staring at her the whole time? She snorted. But she needed his help like it or not. She would send all the Amazons here straight into their death if she refused this help. She glared at Folken and his advisor who now stood at his side. She didn't like these purple eyes of him. They were strange and seemed to hide something.
"And?", Folken asked seeing her struggle with herself.
"What do you want for helping me?", she asked knowing that he wanted a reward. The Lord of Fanelia wouldn't cross the ocean and travell hundreds of miles with a giant army just because he was an unselfish man who always helped where he could. He was a strategist not doing anything without a plan. He smirked proving her right.
"Not much.", he replied the smirk grewing even wider. "I only want you to put your army at my disposal for one time. I say when time has come. No complains. That's all."
"That's all?", Penthesilea gave a laugh. As she said a strategist through and through. "Do you know what you expect from me?"
"Yes, I know exactly.", Folken replied smirking.
There was a silence between them for a few moments and they could hear the voices coming from behind the forest which sourrounded them. It were battlecries and they became louder and louder each second. Folken saw the queen clenching her fists. She was really beautiful. She startled him when her head suddenly shot up and she looked directly at him.
"Deal!", she said, her voice hard.
Folken didn't hesitate and grabbed a big swung horn which had been hide under his cloak. A deep tone left it when he blew into it echoing through the forest. The response were the cries of hundreds of armed men breaking through the undergrowth. Folken mounted his horse and took the lead of the army waiting behind him. Putting her helmet on Penthesilea grabbed the reins of one of the horses walking along the camp. She mounted it and joined Folken's side. Her eyes sparkled intensely when she looked at him.
"Let's go.", she said and he followed her together with his army.
end flashback
The doors swinging open made Folken snap out of the memory. He turned around and spotted a young, grey-haired man walking towards him. Dilandau bowed deeply when he reached his Lord.
"Lord Folken, they failed.", he said quietly fearing his reaction. He knew that his Lord could be very angry when something went wrong.
"I know.", Folken replied surprising Dilandau.
"How...?", Dilandau started to ask but Folken interupted him.
"I feel it.", he said knowing what his best soldier had wanted to say. "Did you really think it would be so easy to get rid of him?" He gave a laugh.
"Of course not.", Dilandau replied. "These goblins were incapable. A professional should have settled this job. I should have never engaged them. It's my fault. I will take care of the job myself. My unit and I-"
"No.", Folken cut in. "It's not necessary, Dilandau."
"What does My Lord mean?", Dilandau asked taken aback. No outburst?
"It would be a waste of time.", Folken answered coldly. "He is already on his way here. He will arrive in a few days. I can take care of him myself then."
"But it will be quite dangerous. What when someone recognizes him?", Dilandau asked worried.
"Believe me, nobody will recognize him nor will anyone believe him.", he replied. "He will come to me, don't worry."
"As you wish.", Dilandau said and bowed. With a last look at his Lord he left the room.
Folken looked out of the window again. "It's been a long time, Van.", he said quietly. "I'm really looking forward to seeing you again."
.........................................
Hitomi had made a decision. She had made it when they had left the ship in Revod. She had made it when she had seen him mount his horse. She had made it when she had noticed the way she looked at him, when she had noticed the warmth crawling through her entire body by meeting his eyes, when she had noticed that she was thinking of him and only him, when she had noticed that something would happen if she stayed with him. She had to leave him. As soon as possible!
She hadn't said a single word since they had left the ship. They had mounted their horses and were now on their way to Fanelia. She had decided that they would separate there. He would go his way and she would go her own way though she didn't know were this way was. But this time, it didn't matter. The only thing that was important at the moment was that she left him. And ignoring the pain this decision caused in her chest she looked ahead.
She was glad that Dust now was able to carry her weight. She wouldn't have been able to bear sitting behind him again, feeling his warmth again, smelling his scent again. She shook her head. When they reached Fanelia it would be over. No more confusing thoughts because of him, no more confusing feelings because of him. She would forget him. He would be nothing more than a vanishing memory. She would forget his disheveled raven-black hair that always hang into his handsome face, his beautiful rusty coloured eyes which seemed to look straight into her soul, his lips always curved to a mischievous smile, the way he made her feel when he touched her, the way she had felt when she was wrapped in his strong arms, the way she had felt when she awoke beside him, the feeling he caused when he said her name with his soothing voice. She would forget everything.
She blinked trying to stop the burning feeling in the back of her eyes. Yes, everything would end there. The whole way to Fanelia she clinged to this thought. She heard Merle's and Gabriella's chatting voices. They were muffled and sounded as if they came from far away. He said nothing, his face emotionless. She didn't notice that he tensed when they crossed the border of Fanelia. She didn't notice the scent which floated through the air. The scent of fields caressed by the eternal breath of the wind and the gently fingers of the sun. His scent. She didn't notice when they passed the city gates and walked through the crowded streets of Fanelia. Merle's shrieking voice made her finally snap out of it.
"Master Van, this is a wonderful city!", she exclaimed loudly.
Slowly Hitomi turned around to look at him. What she saw surprised her. An incredible sadness lay on his features. He looked around and his lips curved in a sad smile. Why was he sad by seeing the city, by seeing the shining white houses sparkle in the sun, by seeing little children chase each other round their horses? What did make him feel that way?
"What is this beautiful house at the hill up there?", Gabriella asked pointing to the north.
Hitomi didn't look at her. Her gaze rested on his features. She saw him turn around and with spotting the object which had caught the little girl's attention his look changed. The sadness vanished from his face with an unbelievable speed, afraid. Afraid of a mighty feeling which was now flooding through him. A feeling that made him grab the reins so hard that his knuckles striked out white. A feeling that made him grit his teeth, that made his beautiful eyes darken. A feeling that could make you do things you never thought you would be able to do. Hate. It was pure hate which now lay on his features.
"This is the palace of Fanelia.", he said and his voice was so cold Hitomi thought it would freeze the sun right now. She shivered goosebumps covering her skin.
"Fanelia has a king?", Gabriella asked not noticing the change in Van's behaviour.
"No.", he said icily.
"But who rules the country when there is no king?", the girl continued.
"A traitor rules this country. A man who sacraficed innocent lives to get what he wanted.", Van replied staring at the palace. "Only a few days are left until he will be crowned. But the crown he will receive is blood- stained."
Hitomi looked at him with wide eyes. What was he talking about? "What do you mean by that?", she heard herself ask.
"I heard about it.", Merle answered instead of him, her voice serious. "It is said that nearly thirteen years ago the king died. It was only a few days after the prophecy had been made. The right to rule had been given to the younger one of the two sons of the king. Then they were attacked by an unknown enemy. The king died and probably his wife and his youngest son too but their bodies could not be found. They had disappeared. The only one left of the royal family was the older son. But he was not allowed to rule his land as a king. It wasn't proved that the younger son, the legitimate king, was dead. So he had to wait as Fanelian law orders until the thirteen years have passed and the legitimate king has not appeared."
"What happened to the queen and the younger son?", Gabriella asked captured by Merle's story.
"Some people say they died and their bodies were hid somewhere nobody could find them.", Merle answered. "But some others say that they are still alive and that the younger son will return before his brother could be crowned to claim of his right to be king. The same people say that the older brother was the one who sent the army to kill the king. They say that he was angry that destiny choose his brother instead of him."
"And is it true?", Gabriella whispered.
"I don't know.", the cat-girl replied. "But supposing it's true, the young king must hurry if he wants to stop his brother. In a few days, there will be the coronation. Look, they are already preparing the marketplace."
The blond haired girl looked around and saw a lot of men dismantle stands to make room for some kind of stage. Women were decorating their houses with the crest of Fanelia. The whole place shimmered in red and yellow. Hitomi still watched him. Van's features haven't changed. They were cold and expressionless.
"So Master Van, this is your destination.", Merle said and jumped off Gabriella's horse. "What do you want to do here?"
Hitomi blinked. This was the city he wanted to reach? This was the city he had been born? This was the place someone had tried to keep him away from? What could he want...she gasped. A thought entered her mind. Maybe...maybe he was the...? She gave a laugh. What a stupid idea! Him? A king? A mule would be a better king than him! She would have laughed out loud about this comparison if she hadn't spotted Merle, Gabriella and even Van look at her suspiciously just then.
"Hitomi, what's so funny?", Gabriella asked making Hitomi shake her head hastily.
"It's nothing.", she replied and jumped off Dust.
She inhaled deeply and looked around. Yes, it was definitely a beautiful city.
"What do you want to do now, Hitomi?", Van asked seriously.
She stopped looking around. Yes, what would she do now? Leave! Leave him! That was of prime importance at the moment. She could wait for Thetis' next hint in every other city on that planet if only he wasn't near her.
"I have something to settle here.", he said when she didn't answer. "Maybe you want to wait and then I can help you search this whatever you're searching."
"No!", she said determined still looking at the city not at him. "No. I'm leaving. I'm leaving now."
She knew if she stayed any longer it would only get harder. If she continued looking at him, in his beautiful eyes she would never be able to leave him. She had to turn around right now without hesitating, without doubting, without looking at him again. And that was what she did right then.
"Farewell.", she said turning around without looking up. Hastily she grabbed Dust's reins dragging him away from the others and disappeared into the crowd.
"Hitomi, wait!", Gabriella shouted grabbing Rhea's reins. "You can't just leave like this! Wait!"
Merle followed the girl with her eyes when she dashed after Hitomi. She was dumbfounded. What had just happened? She turned around to face Van and became even more confused by seeing him smile.
Gabriella had lost sight of Hitomi the moment she ran into a group of people. She called out for the Amazon without success. Hitomi could hear the girl call her name quite clear but she didn't react. She felt like crying. Crying because of boundless pain. It felt like a dagger was pricked into her heart and with every step she took it was twisted a bit more. But why? Why did she feel that way? Because she left these two people? They were still strangers and she didn't really like them. Yes, she didn't like them!
Suddenly, a picture flashed before her eyes. The picture of a person. Wild black hair, honest reddish-brown eyes and captivating lips curved into a sad smile. She stopped shocked. Why was she thinking of him? Of course, they had shared some special moments but could this be an explanation for the feeling crawling through her? she had felt it before. It was when her mother had died. The feeling that you lost an important part of your life, a part of your heart. Something was missing. There was a deep, black hole somewhere deep inside her. She felt it. But why? Because of him? No! It couldn't be! It shouldn't be!
And at that moment she wanted to cry. Only cry. Cry to wash this feeling out of her. This feeling which held her heart in a death grip, that feeling which hurted her so much. She didn't want to feel it again. She blinked the tears away and looked defiantly into the sky. No, she won't cry. Not because of him. She hated him! She must hate him!
"Hey Hitomi!", she heard a familiar voice calling her name. Her eyes widened.
"Hitomi!", the voice said again, this time close behind her. Why did he follow her? She hated him!
She spun around to face him. "What?", she barked. Van smirked. Oh, it suited him so much.
"Same Hitomi as usual.", he said grinning making Hitomi snort and glare daggers at him. "I forgot something. It'll cost my life but I think it's worth it.", he said cryptically.
Hitomi looked at him distrusting. Suddenly he closed the gap between the two of them with one step and encircled her waist with his left arm. She was too surprised to react in time. Van pressed her against his body. She tried to escape by bracing herself against him.
"Van, what are you doing?", she asked annoyed beating his chest and felt the outlines of his muscles under his shirt. It was useless, he was simply stronger than her and didn't waste a single thought about letting her go. Instead of releasing his grip he gently cupped her chin with his right hand and lifted it making her look straight into his eyes. Hitomi fought.
"Don't be afraid.", Van said softly.
Hitomi's eyes widened, her hands resting on his chest. She looked directly into his eyes. His beautiful eyes. She blinked. What was this in his eyes? She never saw it before. It wasn't his usual mocking look he always gave her when they argued. She jerked lightly when he closed his eyes bending down. Panic flodded through her and her heartbeat fastened. She thought her heart would burst within the next seconds.
"Wha-", she started to say trying to push him off but was silenced by his lips. Her almost bursting heart stopped beating, her breath was caught in her throat and a feeling was overwhelming her, she couldn't describe. But it was so wonderful. It was the most wonderful feeling she ever experienced. Feeling him so unbelievable close, her defense melted away like an ice-cube in the summersun.
She closed her eyes. She couldn't resist anymore, she didn't want to resist anymore. He was just about to let go, to break this wonderful moment in time when she suddenly leaned in.
Van's eyes shot open. He couldn't believe what she was doing. He had expected her to slap him but instead of that she kissed him back! He smiled against her lips, closing his eyes. He pulled her slowly closer and ever so slightly deepened the kiss. Hitomi wasn't thinking anymore. She couldn't think, everything she was able to do at the moment was enjoying. Enjoying this blissful moment. Yes, now she could define the feeling. Bliss. Pure bliss.
They stood there in the middle of the marketplace kissing and holding each other as if they never would let go. The world had stopped breathing and the time had stopped flowing for them. At that moment there were only the two of them at this planet. They didn't notice the people walking by, looking at the couple with a smile on their lips. They wondered what might be the reason for such a kiss. Maybe they haven't seen each other for a long time and now were happy to see each other again or maybe he was a merchant going on a long journey leaving his love behind.
If it only was this way. If it only was this way. But it wasn't. It really wasn't that simple. She was an Amazon who's teachings forbid her to do what she was doing right now. An Amazon on her way to fulfill a goddess' wish. A wish really hard to fulfill. An Amazon who found something she never expected to find. She found someone who lost beloved ones, someone who knew what hate was, someone who knew what loneliness was, someone who was almost as stubborn as herself-someone just like her and yet so different.
But everything had to end even the most wonderful moment she ever experienced. After what seemed like an eternity they parted. Reluctantly. Breathing hard, Hitomi leaned against him. She felt her cheeks burning and her heart beating rapidly. Licking her tingling lips she could still taste him. She felt him tighten the embrace around her waist and rest his chin on the top of her head. She felt save and warm, his heartbeat soothing her. She hated him!
Taking a deep breath, Hitomi took a step back and looked up at him. She looked him straight in the eyes. There was this look again she couldn't identify. But at that moment it didn't matter. She hated him! Without hesitating, she raised her arm and slapped him hard across the face. When he opened his eyes again she was gone. He rubbed his cheek and smiled sadly. Yes, it definitely had been worth it.
"Goodbye, Hitomi."
.........................................
ASDASDFAS(): Thank you!!!! Hope you liked it!
LW: Glad you like the 'new' Hitomi. And your middle name is Alexandros? That's such a beautiful name! I wonder how your first name is. As far as I can remember you once said that you don't like it. And yes, Merle is very stupid but hey it wouldn't be Merle if she hadn't stayed with him, would it? Yay! I'm happy you like the story and thanks for reviewing!
???: Yup, your German was really good!!! Dankeschön für das Lob!!!! Glad you like the story. You couldn't stop reading? blushs madly And I like fluff too!!! Fluff rulez!!!! Can't get enough of it!!!!
hitomi21: Oh yeah, I love them together too! V/H forever!!!! Thanks for reviewing!!!!
SabineballZ: Hi du! Tut mir ja wirklich leid, dass Van in die selbe Richtung muss wie Hitomi! Pff sich weg dreh um zu schmollen Nur'n Scherzerl'. Hehe. Freut mich, dass es dir noch immer gefällt.
Aeka-himme: blushs hard Glad, you like it! I'm really really glad, believe me. I was so worried that you may not like it! But you did like it!!!! jumps around like there is no tomorrow and giggles like there is no day after tomorrow You're right I really concentrated on Hitomi's character and neglected my beloved Van!!!! clings to Van's leg Please forgive me, Van!!!!! I promise I'll improve!!!! Hehe. And don't worry, this points at end of chapter 7 isnt your fault. I had this on my mind for a long time. I simply couldn't let them be together grins evily The two of them (Van and Hitomi) wouldn't have allowed me to continue the story the way I want! giggles I hope you survived the end and don't be afraid it's still V/H!!!!!
Paige Moonsword: Yes, you definitely should feel guilty and yes, you REALLY should hurry and update!!!!!! glares at Paige Update, girl!!!! And I agree, it would have been really strange if Van and Hitomi would already have gotten together. But it's so damn hard to NOT make them get together. Argh! I hope you liked the ending. They're still not together! Hehe. And thanks again for the review. I'm really happy that you liked it. Happy happy happy happy!!!!!
Ruby: Yay, you liked it! And don't worry, I'll bring them together soon. It's a torture for me too seeing them not being together! Grrrr, why did I make Hitomi so stubborn? grumbles So, something pretty? I hope my idea is pretty
CRAZY Dragon: ganz rot werd Find ich ja klasse, dass dir meine kleine Geschichte gefällt g Und jap, ich verstehe Deutsch. Ich hatt's am Anfang schonmal irgendwo erwähnt gehabt, ich komm nämlich aus Deutschland. Jaja, die Welt ist klein, nicht wahr?! Und nochmals danke danke danke danke für das Lob. Hab mich tierisch drüber gefreut. Und ich würd mich auch freuen, wenn ich wieder mal von dir lesen würde
Silver Magiccraft: Glad you like my story and the length of it. I often feared that nobody would read it because it's so long. But you like it!!! I'm happy happy happy!!!! Thanx!!!!!!!
van lover(): Hehe. I bet you heard it a lot of times but I must say it: I love your name!!!! g Thank you!!!!!
naru(): Thanx for telling me Glad you like it and I hope you like how it went on too!!!
A/N: grins from ear to ear I hope you all liked the ending. I do! Nyarharharharhar!!! Am I evil or what? I'm so happy I could write this!!!!! YAY!!! hides behind desk Don't flame me! Flame her!!!! shoves Hitomi a step ahead Is this girl stupid or what? Van kisses her and she slaps him!!! If I were Hitomi...drools I really wish I were her!!! blushs Well...er...what did I want to say? Yes, PLEASE TELL ME IF YOU LIKED IT!!!!!!! I need to know!!!! Tell me, tell me, tell me, tell me!!!!!! Review!!!!! Please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
See ya next chapter!!!! waves
Bye Dariel