Chapter 10 Summer
After the field trip, a lot of things happened. School proceeded as usual. It exhausted them all. The activities and the projects they were working on were harder than what they had originally anticipated.
For some students, the thought of summer vacation approaching was what made them going. The scent of the long awaited summer break filled their senses and encouraged them to exert a little more effort so that they may finally cross the finish line. They longed for its sweet taste to finally linger in their mouths. They were dying to savor its soothing aroma.
But for some like Van, Hitomi, Yukari and others like them, they weren't really in a hurry for school to end. They were the lucky ones to be paired with someone they enjoy being with. Instead of having to worry of their projects' gravity, they cope by enjoying what they were doing by just being together and cooperating with one another by dividing the tasks evenly.
Some felt it was really great to be paired with their friends even though some still wouldn't admit how he or she feels about him or her. Something just stops them from making their moves.
But no matter what it was, the whole experience brought each one of them closer to one another. It was indeed an uplifting opportunity no matter what side you look at. But everything has a definite end. Before anybody knew it, summer was among them.
It was already the last day of school and Hitomi, Yukari, Van, Folken and Allen decided to walk home together that afternoon. "Ah! Finally it's summer!" Folken exclaimed. "You sure are exited about it." Hitomi commented, quite amused at her friend's enthusiasm. "For one thing, it would be nice to go home but at least we could have a well deserve break from school." Folken replied.
"Oh yeah before I forget, would you guys like to spend summer in our home country?" He added. The night before, when their father agreed to have their friends over, they had finally agreed to tell them the truth. They have decided that the time was right. Besides, Van knew it was not appropriate for him to keep it from Hitomi. Before anything further started, he wanted her to know whom he really was.
Now that he was sure about how he really felt for Hitomi, he wanted her to love him entirely and not rooted on the lie that they were currently in. Yukari and Hitomi looked at each other and regrettably told them that they won't be able to come. "What? Why?" Folken asked.
"My grandmother said I have to undergo training with her because I have come of age. It suppose to take me the entire summer but if grandmother said that I everything goes well, it won't take as long." Hitomi answered. "I hope you get to finish early so that you could join us." Folken commented.
He then turned to Yukari. Yukari already knew Folken was going to ask her the same thing so she just answered, "My violin teacher wants me to stick around to practice." "Oh yeah your recital is in a month right? Good luck, Yukari! I wish I could be there." Hitomi commented as she hugged her. "Yeah but there will be other recitals. I'll just ask for a rain check." Yukari replied.
"Don't worry. We'll be there. We could video it and send it to you. Just leave your grandmother's address." Allen offered. "That would be great but I'm not so sure about my grandmother's address. You could send it to me via e-mail if you like. Oh but that's going to be a lot of work. I'll just view it when I get back." Hitomi replied. "Don't be silly. I'll do it. After the recital, I've got nothing to do." Yukari insisted.
"Wait! Does your grandmother have a computer? Didn't you say she's not fond of techno gadgets?" She added. "Yeah that's true. She doesn't have a computer or anything too technical." Hitomi replied. "Ok. So how is Yukari going to sent it to you?" Folken asked. "Via e-mail. My dad insisted that I bring his laptop so that I could write to them. They won't be here this summer due to dad's business so they wouldn't hear of my refusal." Hitomi explained.
"How about you, Allen? Care to come with us?" Van asked. Allen just smiled and said, "Sorry but I'm also on my way home." "Will you be there the entire summer?" Hitomi asked. "No. I'll be back for Yukari's recital. I promised to tape it, right?" "Is that the only reason? If it's too much trouble, you don't have to tape it. I already asked for a rain check remember?" Hitomi said.
"Yeah. You don't have to. I mean, it's sweet and everything but I wouldn't want you to go to all that trouble because of us." Yukari said. "Don't fret. I'm coming back whether there is a recital or not so it wouldn't really matter. Besides, a promise is a promise." Allen replied.
"If that's settled, why don't you guys come with us after? I mean, we would also be back for the recital and for the enrolment so..." Folken said. "Yeah. Why don't you guys spend the rest of the summer with us?" Van added. Allen and Yukari looked at each other and nodded. "Just tell us if ever you finish your training earlier than expected so that you could come too." Van addressed Hitomi. She just smiled and nodded.
She then stopped and said, "I guess this is my stop, guys. I hope you all have a great summer." Hitomi just smiled and waved goodbye before walking away. "There she goes...this is hard for her, you know. That's why she refuses to turn back." Yukari commented. "It sure looks like it. I do hope she finishes early so that she could come and join us." Folken replied. Van just nodded.
"But you know I wish it was just that simple..." Yukari whispered to herself. She didn't expect them to hear that. "What do you mean, Yukari?" Van questioned. Yukari just turned away and said, "Nothing really. I'd better be going. I've got a practice to go to." "Yukari, come on." Allen said. "Look, I'm just saying that this summer is really going to be hard for her and we won't be able to do anything about it. Her greatest challenge will be coming and she said that it's going to be something." Yukari replied calmly as she could. She then started to walk away but Folken held her arm. She stopped walking.
"Something tells me you're not telling everything." Folken then said. Yukari turned to him but didn't say anything. "Come on, Yukari. I may not know her as much as you but I know her well enough to understand her motives. You know it's something deeper or you wouldn't have said anything." Van added. Yukari hesitated but finally said, "She's losing control of her gifts. It seemed to have changed overnight. She has to resolve it before the bon festival because when that time comes, it would be like the right of passage. That would be the time of her final judgment."
"What final judgment?" Van quickly asked. "I don't know. Hitomi doesn't know either and that's why she's nervous...no frightened...all she knows is that she can't fail..." Yukari replied. "She'll be fine. She will be able to pass this like everything else. Even if we cannot intervene, she could overcome this nonetheless. We just have to have faith in her." Van replied. "That's right. Let's just have faith in her. That's the only thing we could do now." Folken said. Yukari just gave a nod and asked them not to say anything to Hitomi about it. She then said her farewells and left.
Then it was Allen who said his farewell before leaving himself. "This is really going to be one summer different from the rest." Folken said as he and Van made their way home. Van just gave a nod. "Disappointed, little brother?" Folken suddenly said noticing Van's silence. Van looked at him, as they were about to enter the front door. He opened the door before replying, "Disappointed with what?"
Folken grinned. "Come on, Van. You know what I'm talking about." Folken teased. Van remained his cool and continued to insist, "No. I don't know what you're talking about. Why should I be disappointed in the first place?" "Gee I don't know maybe because you lost the chance to tell Hitomi how you really feel about her." Folken replied. Van stopped dead on his tracts.
Before he could say anything, a strong, gentle voice came, "Who is this Hitomi, Van?" Both Van and Folken were startled. They quickly turned and saw their father standing by the living room. Both quickly bowed and greeted their father in respect. "My son, who is this girl named Hitomi?" He asked again. "She's just a friend of ours, Father." Van replied. He tried to put as much conviction as he could.
But their father could see through that as Folken cleared his throat. Van could have strangled Folken at that very moment but restrained himself. His Majesty knew his sons well and was pleased to know that his youngest son had finally started down the very same path he himself had walked years before when he had met his queen. He gestured the two of them to follow him to the living room, not showing his pleasure.
Van could see it coming. Images started to fill his mind. He didn't know how to start explaining everything to their father. He didn't know where to possibly start. Folken could feel Van's tension. He could visualize what was to take place. But somehow Folken felt that Van should not feel that way because that was probably for the best. Nonetheless, Folken remained silent both in words and in gestures in fear that maybe he would signal a wrong thing and bring Van in real trouble, not to mention himself.
They just followed without uttering a word and settled in the living room. "Now tell me, Van, Folken, what have you two been doing?" Their father asked in a gentle voice. As suddenly as it came, the anxiousness in both the teenagers disappeared. Relief spread through them unexpectedly, especially for Van. "Well, isn't either of you going to answer?" Their father commented upon seeing their reactions.
Folken and Van glanced at each other for a split second. Folken then answered, "Aside from school, we haven't really gotten into anything else aside from extracurricular activities as well as going out with friends, Father." Their father just gave a nod. He then looked at Van. "Is there anything else you would like to add, Van?" He then said.
"No, Father. That was basically what had been going on." Van quickly answered. "I see. Basically...now what about a few more details aside from the basics? How would I know how much you've grown far from home if you don't tell me everything?" "Father, I..." "Yes." Folken forced himself not to grin. He knew their father was the only one who could really make them talk.
"Father..." Van started again. Folken knew that Van couldn't really get it out so he quickly intervened by saying, "Father, is there a certain age we must reach before falling in love?" "Folken, you are never too young or too old to fall in love. If it's really true love, age wouldn't matter." "How about status, Father? Does she have to be of noble birth for us to have your consent?" Folken questioned.
Van knew what Folken was up to. He was very grateful for it. If it wasn't for their birth right, it would probably be easier to tell their father about a certain flame that started to burn a couple of months earlier. And if it weren't for their position, nothing would have been hindering Van from coming forward with his emotions. Even if it wasn't really his style, it would still be a simpler situation without his title.
"My sons, it is much more complicated than simple birth right." Their father finally answered. Van and Folken had a bad feeling about what His Majesty was about to say next. "How so, Father?" Van said, almost afraid to ask. Their father, a lean man in his late forties, was more than a king at that moment. He was a father lost for words on how to make his sons understand what he really wanted to say.
"Listen carefully, my sons, because I myself am not certain how to explain this accurately." He started to say. Folken and Van looked at each other. Now they really had a bad feeling about it. "You two know Fanelia's history, our story. You know very well what our forefathers would say to this."
A lot of things then started to rush through Van's mind. Like their father was saying, he knew what their ancestors would say. Falling in love with someone out of the nobility was simply unthinkable. It was a taboo, forbidden to all those of royal, nobility birth. Marrying outside the elite was so unforgivable that to those courageous souls who tried to defy tradition would often be married off quickly to a person they don't love or would sometimes go to the boundaries of death.
Van knew all of knew all of these so cold fear ran down his spine. He feared that something awful could happen especially to his beloved Hitomi. His Majesty could sense this. He knew with Van's reaction that indeed something was going through his heart, deeper feelings that he was still reluctant to show especially to him.
"But I think applying this at present wouldn't work. The world has changed and there are things we know now that they didn't know back then. This is one of the traditions I see as pointless." Their father finally said.
Van could feel his heart skip a beat. Folken too couldn't help sigh in relief. One way or the other, it concerned him too. The dense, tense feeling the brothers felt a moment before dissipated into nothingness. No words could escape the brothers' lips at that moment.
"A person's title or position doesn't determine a noble heart. A crown or the vastness of a kingdom doesn't make a king or a man. A kind soul, a loving heart makes nobility. These are the ingredients needed aside from having a great mind for you two to have my consent." His Majesty said. "Besides, love doesn't know any boundaries. You know that, am I right, Van?" He added.
Van stunned. He didn't know exactly what to say. His Majesty gave out a gleeful laugh. "It's alright, Van. It is a good thing not something to be ashamed of. As your father, I just want to know. I maybe the king but that doesn't excuse me from my parental duties. Now tell me, is she the 'Hitomi' you two were conversing about?" He said. Van hesitated but finally gave a nod. "Now that wasn't so hard was it?" Their father exclaimed. "Why don't you tell me about her? Folken, have you gotten to know her?" He added.
"Yes, Father. I know her personally. She's one of my closest friends here. I've known her since I started school here, Father." Folken answered and their father gave a nod of approval. "What can you say about her, Folken?" "Hitomi is a strong-willed, high-spirited girl. She's very much like mother."
"Yes, she is. She's very kind and very considerate as well. In the short span of time I've known her, I've seen her grow and mature a lot, Father." Van said. "She also descends from those of the Mystic Moon, Father. Her gift is strong. She warned us about Mother. She wasn't straight when she said it. She used a riddle, which we figured later." "She said that Father even if she had just suffered a terrible loss that she herself foresaw too." Van then added.
"She descends from the people of the Mystic Moon? How many people know about this?" His Majesty asked. "No one, Father, aside from her family, myself, Folken, a friend of ours, Allen and her best friend, Yukari. She doesn't want her secret disclosed to anybody else. She always says that the world is not ready for it." "Is she of your age, Van?" "Yes, Father."
"She's wise and mature for her age. You said she has gone through a lot. Exactly what kind of things?" "Before Mother died, she also foresaw her brother's death, which happened one day. Her secret once was threatened of being disclosed." Van replied. His Majesty grinned and said, "I assume you were there beside her during all that time, my son. You sure have picked a nice girl to love. But I still would like to meet her personally."
Van gave a nod. He was more than satisfied with their father's approval. But still he knew that that was only step one. He would still have to do a lot of things to bring out his heart's true potential.
"How about you, Folken?" Folken closed his eyes and calmly replied, "Father, my heart hasn't found the flame Van had found in Hitomi. As the crown prince, I do not want to rush things. I don't want to disappoint myself, our people and especially you, Father." His Majesty gave a nod in satisfaction.
"You have grown a lot, my sons. I am proud of you. If your mother were still alive, she would have been overjoyed as well. But a lot of things still await you both." He then stood. "Why don't you freshen up before dinner? After, prepare yourselves for we will leave early tomorrow morning. You did tell your friends to come, did you?" "They'll come next month, Father." Van replied. "Very well." He just said before leaving the room for his study. He still had a few matters to se before supper so he left his sons be.
"I can see you're relieved, little brother." Folken suddenly commented. Van opted to remain silent. He just stood and turned to leave. Before he left, Van said, "I know I should feel relieved but somehow...I feel Hitomi just drifted farther away from me because of this." Folken was taken aback. He didn't see this coming. "What do you mean? Do you think this whole thing is a mistake?" Folken said, concerned with the sudden remark of his only brother.
"That's not what I said. Telling Father and having his approval indeed has taken off some of the load but...I just don't know. I feel like I'm losing her the more I can get close. Anyway, just forget what I said. Don't even mention it to father." Van said and finally left.
Folken stood there in silence for a moment. He was having a hard time comprehending what he just heard. For a moment there, when their father gave his consent, he was very happy for Van because now he was free to love Hitomi without fear of their father. But after his brief talk with Van, even he wasn't sure anymore.
He wanted to comfort him then but he then thought it was wiser to give him some space. The wheels of fate had turned quickly at that moment and Van needed time to take in everything that has happened. Folken decided to talk to him later that night, after supper probably.
After dinner, everyone retired to their rooms. Folken laid in bed, still thinking about what Van had said earlier. He just couldn't understand why he would say something like that. He knew how much Van loved Hitomi and now that he had their father's consent, Folken just couldn't see why Van was feeling just so. After tossing and turning around for a while in his bed, he finally got up and headed for Van's room.
"Van, let's talk." Folken said. Van just gave a nod as he sat by the open window, looking outside not turning to face Folken. "How much do you love Hitomi, Van?" Folken asked as he sat next to his brother. Van looked at him. He couldn't believe Folken would ask him something like that. "You know how much I love her, Folken. How could you even ask that?" Folken just closed his eyes and replied, "I know how much you love her maybe you don't." Van was about to protest. He wasn't going to hear any of that.
"Van, if you love her as much as that, don't you think that it can withstand anything? I can't speak for her here but don't you think you should have a little more faith in what you two have?" Van was silent. "You don't understand, Folken." He then said. "How can I understand when you don't tell me anything? Come on, bro, you know that I'm always here to listen to you." Folken replied.
"It's just...we've been lying to all out friends and now this happens. I didn't expect this. If I told her the truth, how do you think she'll feel?" "Don't get me wrong, but I think she feels the same about you." "That's not exactly what I mean. Even if she felt the same, how do you think she'll react when we tell her exactly whom we are? We've been lying to all our friends and you know what I mean." Van replied.
Folken became serious and replied, "You should have more faith in Hitomi than that Van. We don't know how they'll take it but you shouldn't let fear stop you. No one knows what exactly will happen but as long as you two have hope, nothing is impossible. You know personally that Hitomi is the kind of person who sees beyond the mask. Don't turn away." "I'm not turning away." "Van that's exactly what you are doing! You are turning away from something very dear to you. Think about it Van. Give yourselves the credit you both deserve." Folken said before leaving him.
Back at Hitomi's room...
Hitomi was doing some final packing for trip she was leaving for the next day. Everything was all set and her parents and her sister were already asleep. Hitomi couldn't sleep so she decided to check if she had already packed what she needed to. After determining that everything was really all set, she decided to sit in front of her window.
She was having a hard time sleeping. She thought that it was probably the excitement of it all or the anxiety that came with it. She then decided to open her window to let the breeze enter her room. It was already late and everything outside was still. But Hitomi was very much awake.
She was aware of what laid ahead. She knew how important it all was and how it would change everything in her life. It was going to be a summer she would never forget and she knew that.
Just then her phone rang. Hitomi quickly picked it up so that it wouldn't wake anybody else. "Hello?" She said. "I figured you'd still be awake. Hey Hitomi. It's Van." He said on the other line. Hitomi couldn't help but smile. "I also had a feeling you were still awake. What's up?" She said. "Nothing much. We have to talk." "I know. I guess it's about time to talk." Hitomi answered.
"So how did you know I'd call?" "Van, I'm guessing Yukari had already told you guys the real reason why I'm going to my grandmother's and why it would be so important. I was just waiting for either of you guys to call. Well, I was right. Here you are."
"Don't worry I won't hold Yukari in contempt for this. I expected it and besides, it saved me the trouble of telling you guys about it." She added. "Hitomi, don't mind me asking, but how could this have happened? I mean, you always knew how to control it. Why the sudden change?" "I don't know myself, Van. I wish it were that simple to answer. If it was, do you think I'd still be going? Maybe because a lot has changed inside of me and it's all happening to fast so it's affecting even my gifts." "Don't worry Hitomi. We all have faith that you'll pass it." "I know."
There was silence from the two of them for a while. "Van, I know there is something bugging you. I'm here...I'm listening." Hitomi suddenly said. She had known for a while now that there was something Van was keeping from her. She didn't want to force him to tell her but she knew that that was the real reason why he called. She suddenly was grateful that she had lost control over her gift because at least she could tell what her friends wanted to say without really saying them.
"Hitomi, I..." Van replied. He couldn't just say it. It was hard for him...for anybody for that matter. He couldn't just divulge it. "If you can't say it yet, let's talk about something else. I'm not forcing you. I'm sorry if it seemed that way." Hitomi said, realizing his hesitation. "No Hitomi. It's about time you know. Since you won't be able to come, I will tell you now. I can't go on lying to you." Van said with conviction. Hitomi smiled. She knew that Van wouldn't turn back at that moment.
"Hitomi, Folken and I had been lying to all of you from the start. We...didn't tell you all our true identities...because...I mean..." "There's no need for explanations Van because I know. I was just waiting for one of you to come forward. I've known ever since I've had that vision of your mother. You and Folken are princes from Fanelia. Yes, I've known for a while." Hitomi said. Van was shocked. He was speechless. "But..." "I've told you this before, I don't go deeper than I need to. Besides, I didn't mean to know so I had no right to say something you didn't want anybody to know." Hitomi explained.
"You don't know how much this means, Hitomi. It sure does take quite a load off." Van replied, relieved. He could hear Hitomi giggle at the other end of the phone. "I've told you once, I've told you a thousand times...your secret is safe with me. So, the invitation is your way of breaking the news to Allen and Yukari, huh?" Hitomi then said.
"Yeah. But we will wait until we get there. You already know how hard it is for us to tell." "Yeah...I think that's a good idea. Go easy on them, will you? They might have a heart attack or something." Hitomi replied. Van grinned and said, "Don't worry we will. But it won't be that simple, I can tell you that." "Who ever said it was going to be simple? I mean, things like this are never simple." "Yeah...you've got that right." "Of course I have. I have the almost same secret remember?" Van gave out a short laugh. "Oh yeah...who could forget yours?"
After things settled for a minute, Van finally said, "Hitomi, could I ask you something?" "Sure." This was it. Van had already convinced himself that it was already time to tell her everything. If he wasn't going to say it that very moment, it wouldn't be easier if he waited for another time. "Hitomi, if I told you I loved you, what would you say? Hypothetically speaking." Van finally said after taking a long breath.
Hitomi could feel her heart skip a beat there. She was taken aback with his sudden question. She didn't exactly know how to answer. "I'd say...what took you so long. No...joke...I don't know...since it's only hypothetical...maybe I'd really, really say what took you so long..."
Van didn't know how he felt at that very moment. He didn't know how to interpret his emotions. After taking another deep breath, he finally said, "I love you, Hitomi." Hitomi just smiled at the other line but then she knew that it could never be. He was royalty and she was just a peasant. She then replied, "What took you so long?" "I'm not playing you Hitomi." "Who said you were? Van I told you...my gift is out of control...I go deeper sometimes without even realizing it or wanting it...but..."
"But...what?" "Van...I've been waiting for this moment for so long...but it's just wishful thinking...Van...you deserve someone better...unfortunately I can't give you what you deserve. You are a prince. Just thinking about having you as a friend already amazes me because I never thought that it could happen. I fell for you and I never thought you did too. I tried to forget it but I just can't. But Van..."
"You deserve someone better...someone of your kind..." Hitomi regretfully said. Van knew that this was going to happen but no matter how much he had anticipated it, it still hurt him so much hearing it. He already knew that she loved him and he loved her. It didn't matter what world they were born into.
"Hitomi, it doesn't matter what status in life we come from because love knows no boundaries." Van replied. "I know...it's just..." "I know you feel that this is wrong for you because of who I am but would you have still felt the same even without the title? Would still have loved me?" Van asked.
Flashback
"What's wrong, my dear? I can feel there is something that's bothering you greatly." Hitomi's grandmother said on night. She had been visiting their family for the weekend. Hitomi hesitated a little. "Come on, my dear. It helps to talk about your problem." Her grandmother said. "Grandmother, I don't know what to do. I'm so confused about what to do."
"Why don't you tell me all about it, my dear? You know I'm always here to listen to you." "Oh grandmother...why do I feel that falling in love is the worst thing that has happened in my life?" Her grandmother just smiled. She then caressed her dear granddaughter. "Sweet heart, love is both bliss and pain. But go on, there must be some reason why you are feeling this way."
"Grandmother, I've fallen in love with a prince." "A prince?" "Literally grandmother. Not just because I'm in love him that I'm considering him as a prince...he really is." "What's the problem then, my child?" "He's of royal blood and I'm a commoner. This sort of relationship could never happen. It is forbidden."
Her grandmother then just smiled at her. "My child, royalty or not, there is no difference at all. It is just a formality we humans give. True nobility is determined by having a noble heart not just for having a noble birth. My dear, we are from the Mystic Moon but we are no different from people of this world." Hitomi then looked at her. "Do you love him, Hitomi?"
Hitomi was about to answer but her grandmother placed a finger on her granddaughter's lips. "Before you answer, my dear, you must think with your heart? Do you really love him to see beyond the boundaries of birth?"
end of flash back
Hitomi could feel tears start to streak down her face. She now knew what her grandmother had once told her. She now understood what it meant. "Yes, Van. I would still have loved you." She finally answered. "A person's title or position doesn't determine a noble heart. A crown or the vastness of a kingdom doesn't make a king or a man. A kind soul, a loving heart makes nobility, Hitomi. That was what my father told me."
"I know...because you know what...that's what my grandmother told me too." Hitomi replied. "Hitomi, would you have me? Would you be my lady?" Van asked. Hitomi smiled and answered, "Am I still not?" Van could hardly contain his happiness. "I love you, Hitomi. I love you with all my heart." "I love you too, Van. I'm sorry it took some time to figure that one out." "It doesn't matter now, Hitomi." "Yeah."
After a moment, Van finally said, "I guess we better be going to bed. We both have a long day tomorrow...especially for you." "Yeah. I guess you're right. Have a safe journey you two...and thanks for giving me the strength for the following days." "You can do it Hitomi. I know you could. My heart will always be with you." "Likewise Van. I don't know exactly what you're up to this summer but whatever it is, I hope guys have fun. I hope to get to see you soon. Good night." "Good night Hitomi."
And that was is for the night. Both couldn't believe what just had happened. They were filled with happiness that they thought they could never really feel. Now they knew that it was a summer to remember forever.
"What!" Folken exclaimed after Van told him everything that had happened that night. Folken then grinned and slapped Van in the back. "You did it, Van. Great job! What did I tell you?" "Ok, ok...you were right but I was right too." Folken just nodded. "But that doesn't matter, does it? At least you guys are already official." Folken replied.
"So how does it feel?" Folken then added. Van grinned and replied, "It feels good actually. Relieved and happy all at the same time." "So, you planning to tell father?" "Do I have to? I'm sure he already knows. Father's father and he has this way of knowing. I think he already knew when he was asking us things." "Well, you're right. But anyway, congratulations!"
"Now it's your turn." "Hey like I said, I'm in no hurry to fall in love." "Take your time, Folken. I'm sure it will eventually be worth it." "Yes it will. I'm sure the others will say that too...speaking of the others, told them yet?" "No." Van replied. Folken just shook his head. "Well, don't worry...they'll find out soon enough." He then headed outside. "Let's take five and then we'll practice again." Folken added as he gathered his sword and left the room.
But little did Folken and Van know, Allen was already there at the castle reporting to their father. "You have done well, Allen. I can see that you and my sons have become very good friends." His Majesty said. "Yes, Your Highness. But they did not suspect a thing." Allen said. "Well, I guess it's time they know about the truth. They plan to tell you anyway. Why don't we go now so that they won't have to go through the trouble anymore?" "Yes, Your Majesty." Allen replied. He then followed the king to where his two sons were practicing.
"Father, good afternoon." They said when they saw their father coming. After the king returned their greetings, he said, "I would like you two to meet someone." Folken and Van looked at each other but said nothing. "Allen." The king said. Allen then took a step forward. He was wearing an armor and bowed. "I believe you have met Allen Schazar."
Both Folken and Van were speechless. The man they had trusted and had become their friend was actually a knight sent in disguise to protect them. "I sent him to your school to watch over the two of you. Since you invited him and planned to tell him the truth about your identities, I supposed that it was also the time that you two learned the truth from me." Their father said. Allen just remained silent. He then gestured to Allen and said, "Allen, you may go and change. Come back here once you've finished." Allen just bowed and followed as he was ordered.
"Father..." Folken tried to say. "I will leave you two now." Their father just said. Both Folken and Van just bowed as their father left. That was when Allen returned. He decided not to say anything for a while and let the brothers do the talking. "So, I guess this was what you meant when you were called home." Van commented breaking the silence between the three of them. Allen just grinned and nodded. "Wow...who would have thought...anyway, I guess it saves us the trouble of explaining it to you." Folken just said. "Likewise, Folken. Likewise. I wouldn't have known how to explain it, really."
"I guess it's just the matter of explaining it to Hitomi and Yukari." He added. "Oh don't worry about Hitomi. I'm sure she knows it one way or the other. It's Yukari I'm worried about." Van replied. Folken then grinned and said, "Yeah it's Yukari we're going to have trouble with." "So Hitomi knows then?" Allen asked. Folken just grinned. Van didn't say anything.
Folken then said, "Oh she knows...she knows..." Folken couldn't help but grin. Allen was getting on. "How come I have a feeling that something happened?" "Oh? What makes you say that?" "Because you two seem a little different." "Well maybe because-"Folken started to say but then Van said, "So, Allen, before Folken does anything stupid I'll tell you. It's official...I've told Hitomi and well that's it."
Allen just grinned catching on. "Oh, so that's what happened. Wow! It's about time! Who else knows?" He said. "Aside from us and Hitomi, no one." Van answered. "Not even Yukari? Now that's shocking." Allen commented. "Hitomi said she wants to do it but she's busy at the moment. She said maybe she'll be able to later." Van replied. "You guys are really serious, huh?" Allen said. "That's an understatement." Folken replied.
"Don't mind him? He fell of the bed and hit his head so he's a little way off." Van said. "Anyway, so Allen, since you're here let's talk about how to break the news to Yukari. I mean, neither of us needed to talk because someone else did is for us." Folken suggested changing the topic.
Allen and Van looked at each other. "Why don't we ask the help of Hitomi? She is her best friend." Allen suggested. "I don't think that's possible. She's in way over her head these past few days and until now, she can't even get in touch with Yukari. I'm even having trouble talking with her." Van replied. "Then, that is a big problem. Well, if we can't ask help from Hitomi we have to do it ourselves. It's just a matter of how to do it gently." Allen replied.
"Why don't you just tell her?" They heard someone say. They glanced back and saw Hitomi. "Hitomi?" They said. She just smiled and replied, "Yeah it's me but not really me? Do you get it?" Neither spoke. "Let's just say that my grandmother taught me this. Anyway, since I won't be able to talk to any of you for the next month, might as well visit you." She said.
"So how do you propose we tell Yukari about this?" Folken said. "By talking...what else? If it will make you feel any better, I'll talk to her but you guys would have to be the ones to tell her about the details? Deal?" Hitomi said. Allen, Folken and Van looked at each other and agreed. "Very well then. I can't stay long. I'd better go. Talk to you again soon." She said before she disappeared.
At first no one knew what to say. "I guess she's getting used to her powers again." Van commented breaking the silence. "That's settled. I hope that it works though." Allen commented. "Don't worry. If anyone can talk to Yukari, Hitomi could." Folken said. "At a time you would be the one who could talk to her." Van said under his breath but loud enough for them to hear. Allen couldn't help but laugh. "What do you mean?" Folken quickly said.
"Oh come on Folken. Like you have no idea? Playing innocent are we?" Van teased. Allen just laughed. Folken just crossed his arms and replied, "I have no idea what you're talking about." Van just grinned and said, "Well suit yourself. It is already in the past anyway."
In about a month...
They all went back for Yukari's recital. Before the show was on, they visited Yukari at her room back stage. "Come in." Yukari said when they knocked at the door. They went inside. Yukari's back was on them. Folken cleared his throat. Yukari then turned and her face lit. "Hey guys! Good to see you. How are you guys?" She said. "Oh well...just the same...you..." Allen said. "You look nervous." Van finished for him.
Yukari just gave a weak smile. "I guess it's that obvious huh?" she said. The guys grinned. "Well, who could blame me? I mean this is the first time I'll ever take the stage alone." "You could do it Yukari. We'll be cheering you on." Folken said. "Thanks. I guess you guys better be going. The show's about to start in a couple of minutes." She said.
After the show and everybody was on their way home...
"You were great Yukari." Allen commented. "Thanks. Boy I'm glad that's over." Yukari said in relief. "I wish Hitomi could have come." She then added. "Yeah but I guess her training was far more difficult than we all expected." Folken replied. "You haven't got in touch with her?" Van asked. "Not much just like you. She's been very busy." Yukari replied.
"Not busy enough to miss your show Yukari." Someone suddenly said. They all turned and saw Hitomi standing there with her bag. She just smiled at them. It was a moment before they were able to comprehend that it was her because she had cut her hair chin level and they weren't really used to that. "Hitomi!" They all said. "Hi guys! So how are you doing?" She said. Yukari hugged her and said, "We're fine. Glad you could make it." "How could I miss my best friend's first solo recital?" Hitomi replied.
"Since when have you been back?" Allen asked. "Just arrived in time for the show. I really missed you guys." Hitomi replied. "So how was the training?" Van asked. Hitomi looked at him and smiled. She then replied, "Passed with flying colors." "It sure looks like it. You changed a lot." Folken commented as they went along.
"I wish I could say the same for you. Still...you know...nervous about a certain thing...?" Hitomi teased. "Hey!" Folken commented. "How did you know?" He added. Hitomi laughed. "I told you I'd get you back. For all the times you got me, finally I got you back." Hitomi then said. Folken just shook his head. "How should I have known that my guess was right?" She then said. Folken's face suddenly changed. "That...that was just a guess...?" Hitomi just smiled and nodded.
"Now you've done it. This is war Hitomi." Folken teased. "Oh yeah then you'd better watch your back." Hitomi teased back. They all just laughed. "So, you haven't told Yukari have you guys?" Hitomi then said. "Tell me what?" Yukari asked.
Hitomi looked at Van, Folken and Allen. They just said nothing. She just remained silent and let them. "Tell me what? Come on you guys?" Yukari pleaded. "Well you see...Yukari...um..." Folken started. "We'll tell you when we get there." Van said.
After they had boarded the van, Allen elbowed Folken. Allen and Van just gave a nod to Folken. "Well you see Yukari...what exactly did Hitomi tell you?" He said. Yukari, who was then quite confused, looked at Hitomi. She just smiled at her and gave her a nod. "Well, she told me that you guys were going to tell me a secret that you guys have been keeping for a very long time and that it was something big." Yukari then said.
"That's it?" Folken asked. "Yeah." Yukari replied. Hitomi could see the disappointment that were written in all their faces. "Hey didn't I tell you guys that you were suppose to give the details? That was the deal. I've kept my part and it's time that you did." Hitomi said, smiling at them.
Just then they were entering Fanelia. "You see this land Yukari?" Van started. "This...this is our land." Van said. "Right and?" Yukari replied. "And well...we are the sons of the ruler of this land." Folken then said. "No seriously?" Yukari then said. "We're serious. This is it. That's our secret." Folken replied.
"So you're telling me you guys are princes?" Yukari said, still having a hard time believing. Van and Folken just nodded. "Oh...ok..." Yukari finally said. "But that's not the end of it." Hitomi said. "It's not?" Yukari asked. "No it's not...because it's my turn." Allen said. Yukari then turned to him.
"You see, I was sent to protect them so I also had to conceal my identity." "And you are?" "I am a knight sworn to protect them and this land." Allen then said. "Ok...it's either I'm in alternate world or am just having a hard time coping." Yukari commented. "So how did you know Hitomi? I hope they had a better way of telling you." She then added.
"Actually...they didn't..." Hitomi answered. "What do you mean, they didn't?" "I mean, when I lost control over, you know, I accidentally uncovered them. I just waited for them to verify it. Boy, you should seen their faces." She said, giggling a little. "Well, it would have been easier if you told us that you knew." Folken commented. "I didn't mean to intrude on your secrets. How am I suppose to say it? 'Hey, you know I just found out your secrets no big deal huh?'" Hitomi replied.
"I give up. No wonder you and Van are compatible." Folken commented. They all just laughed. "So I guess this is the beginning of something big isn't it?" Yukari commented. They just smiled. Hitomi then replied, "Yeah...it is...and it all started when the eyes met."
THE END (or is it? hehe) I'm actually thinking of adding to this fic...you know expanding its storyline but I would be needing your reviews first so that I know if it's really worth it not to mention it would allow me to think more creatively knowing that there are still people out there who would want to see what happens next because I sure would it's a cliffhanger isn't it? hehe so just send in your reviews and I would really be basing my decision on your response hehe…um yeah so since I guess that would be expecting too much so I made the call…I'm going to continue the story but it would be a new fic so if you want to know what happens, wait for "The Impossible Dream". I've already started with chapter 1 so hope to see you guys soon
NOTE: Well before anything else, I want to apologize for being late in the update department. It wasn't really my fault because you know, it was hard having your computer being invaded by a virus one after the other therefore deleting your files...and having no computer for four months was really torture. Anyway, having trouble accessing the internet too. But that doesn't really matter anymore because now I'm through at last. Thank you for all the reviews that you guys sent in for the last chapters. And well this is the last time I'd be asking you for this fic to please, please send in your reviews because I would really like to know what you think about it not to mention all your reactions. I hope to be hearing from you soon and I hope you guys support my other stories too. I'll be writing another story for Vision of Escaflowne but it would take some time. I'll see you then I guess. Bye.
Michiko