Chapter Three: In The Gardens

Hitomi's day was filled with paperwork and chores due to her acceptance of the position as Fanelian diplomat. It hadn't taken much convincing from Van to bring her to the conclusion that she would be right person for the job. Not only that, but I'll be able to see Dilandau more often, she reminded herself, grinning at the thought.

She could remember perfectly the first time she'd met Dilandau, nearly six months ago. A foreign dignitary from Lamarth came to stay for in Fanelia for a few days to discuss trade. The however, had been Dilandau in disguise and he had come with the intent of stealing important Fanelian documents to be used by Zaibach. The plan would have worked perfectly had Dilandau not been distracted by Hitomi, who sometimes roamed the palace halls when she couldn't sleep.

They ended up talking the entire night and Dilandau left the next morning, mission completely forgotten. He often complained to Hitomi that that mistake had cost him the chance to be Strategos, but Hitomi knew he never stood a chance in the first place.

Her relationship with Dilandau had been kept secret at all costs. If Van ever got any inkling of what was going on, there was no doubt that he would be angry enough to kick her out. The prospect of moving to Zaibach to be closer to her lover had occurred a couple times, but had never tempted her. Sure, Zaibach was technologically advanced, but nearly every acre of its land was taken up by cities and factories. There were no beautiful rolling hills, no forests, and its lakes were polluted with chemicals. Not an inviting place to live in.

Sunset rolled in, and the sky was fading to a warm shade of sweet mandarin orange. Hitomi emerged into the gardens behind the palace at the Fanelian capitol, clad in a midnight blue dress. A light breeze fluttered the loose fabric of the hem, flapping it playfully against her legs. She disliked wearing dresses, but since it was uncustomary in Fanelia for a woman to wear pants, she was left with no choice but to tolerate them.

As she wandered through the maze of bushes and plants, the milky sunset faded into a smooth crimson. Hitomi sighed wistfully, thinking how alike Dilandau's eyes were to this sky. Where was he? He wasn't known to be late for occasions such as this.

As if to answer her question, there was a rustling behind her and out strode none other than Dilandau himself.

He held out his arms with relief. Finally! I've been looking everywhere for you!

Hitomi smiled. Were you lost? I thought we agreed to meet at this bench.

Oh yes, of course, he said, then added under his breath, Van and his damn mazes.

Hitomi couldn't help laughing. Dilandau looked slightly offended, but it quickly passed, leaving him beaming. I have something to show you, he announced. He held out a hand. Close your eyes and I'll lead you there.

Hitomi gave him a curious look, but took his and did as instructed. Tugging lightly, he pulled her along after him, leading her through the gardens, or so she hoped. I wonder if he can find his way around, she mused as she felt her legs brush past a scraggly bush. Otherwise, we're going to be very lost!

Um, Dilandau? Where exactly are we going? she asked a little later, getting the distinct feeling that they'd been wandering around in circles.

It's a surprise, Dilandau replied mysteriously.

Well, do you have any idea where we are right now?

Of course I do!

We aren't leaving the gardens, are we?



He was speaking quietly, despite the fact that the gardens were completely deserted other than the two of them. Hitomi had ordered everyone to clear out for a few hours so she could have some peace. It was so nice to have that kind of authority in the castle.

You don't have to whisper, we're not going to be followed, Hitomi assured her guide.

How do you know?

I wanted to be alone, she said airily, and no one ever questions what I want.

She could almost see Dilandau smile.

You aren't peeking, are you? he asked.

Hitomi had her eyes clenched shut and her free hand covering them, but she knew Dilandau wasn't referring to that. Her powers of premonition also allowed Hitomi to see things that were hidden from her; this included the world when she was blindfolded. But, despite how easy it would be to see where Dilandau was leading her, Hitomi had sportingly forced herself not to look.

A few minutes later, she felt Dilandau stop.

You can look now, he said softly. We're here.

Hitomi uncovered her eyes. They had reached a part of the gardens that melted into the forest. All around her were tall trees, bursting with healthy green foliage that shown with an ethereal light in the fading sunset.

The ground was covered in thick mossy grass with soft blades that pleasantly tickled bare feet. A small brook ran past to the left, its clear water sparkling over smooth rocks and reflecting the deep purple sky.

A little way from the bank, a magnificent indigo and silver blanket was spread out, covered by many glittering silver dishes with several candles. The effect was breathtaking. Hitomi turned to Dilandau, who was smiling proudly at the expression of shock on her face.

He settled himself on the blanket and motioned her to sit. What do you think?

It's amazing, Hitomi breathed, kneeling beside her boyfriend.

It's all for you, he said and reached for a pair of crystal goblets. I wanted to show you how much I care about you. He passed her a glass and pulled a tall deep green flask from inside a wicker basket. He popped out the cork and carefully poured some of the crimson liquid into both cups.

Hitomi took a sip. Red wine, she discovered, savoring the sweet taste on her tongue. Asturian red wine. But, how could someone from Zaibach get a hold of Asturian delicacies? Ignoring Dilandau's prior statements, Hitomi asked, Where did you get this?

It's a surprise.

But, with the war going on, there's been a shortage of things like fine wine . . .

Let's just call it a gift and leave it at that. Dilandau smiled, a smile that drove all intent to find out about the wine from Hitomi's mind. Who says we can't enjoy the finer things during war just because they're hard to come by?

Dilandau took another sip from his glass as Hitomi didn't answer.

Speaking of the war, Hitomi began suddenly, what was the reason behind that attack last night?

Dilandau hesitated. Hitomi was his girlfriend, yes, and he liked to tell her everything, especially when it glorified him. But, as he'd learned this morning from one of his sources, she was now the chief ambassador for Fanelia. Surely she would immediately tell Van of anything new she heard concerning Zaibach's attacks.

Anything we say here is just between us, Hitomi added, hoping to sway his decision. She did.

Last night was actually a test, Dilandau said, not just a show. I was sent to surprise Fanelia and get a look at how their military had recovered from our last assault. I have to say, this looks promising.

There are barely any able-bodied men to fight for Fanelia anymore, Hitomi protested. If Van doesn't start enlisting women to fight, he's going to have to trade with Asturia for more soldiers.

Why would he want a bunch of women piloting melefs against us? Dilandau asked, laughing slightly.

Hitomi scowled, her blood heating offensively. Dilandau suddenly realized his mistake.

Not to say women couldn't do it, of course, he assured her, but don't most of the women in Fanelia have families to look after and husbands who are already enlisted?

Yes, but there are a lot out there just like me, said Hitomi. If I were a pilot and you were to face me, don't you think I'd stand a chance to win?

Yes, yes, of course, Dilandau said. Then, his face twisted in a wry smile. Care to try it out?

Hitomi blushed and shoved his shoulder. Oh, you. . .

Dilandau poured them both a second glass.

What does Zaibach have to gain from defeating Fanelia? Hitomi mused, her anger subsided.

Dilandau chuckled. I would think you of all people would know the answer to that question. Fanelia is the ideal trade country, even if it is struggling now. It has rich industries and exports, you know.

So why not just set up a trade alliance?

What's the fun of that?! Dilandau mocked, but said seriously, No, that wouldn't work because Fanelia has no need for what we can offer.

How do you know?

Your predecessor said so himself, right before we killed him. There was a hint of amusement in his voice.

Surely Fanelia and Zaibach could come to some agreement.

Dilandau shrugged, taking a long drink from his glass.

Maybe no one has been talking to the right person in Zaibach, Hitomi speculated, more to herself than for conversation. Who heads negotiation?

That's a good question. Dilandau looked genuinely confused. If I had to guess, I'd say Folken, but I really don't know. I really don't have much to do with the peaceful side of Zaibach.

Peaceful side? That's a load of shit, Hitomi thought. Zaibach probably doesn't have a negotiation team. Even if it did, I highly doubt the Strategos would be on it.

Is there any chance for peace?

Not unless someone convinces Dornkirk that it's the way to go, Dilandau offered noncommittally.

What does it take to gain audience with the emperor?

Dilandau, who had been in the middle of polishing off his third glass of Asturian wine, nearly spat it out all over the blanket. You want to what?!

Talk to Emperor Dornkirk face to face, Hitomi repeated. What's wrong with that?

Dilandau hesitated. I don't think he'd listen, especially not to you. Dornkirk isn't interested in peace; he wants to expand his empire.

Do you agree? Hitomi asked him.

With Dornkirk? he shrugged. If he wants to rule Gaea, I'll let him. It doesn't matter to me who's in charge as long as I'm Strategos.

I didn't know you wanted more responsibility.

I just want to . . . take things to the next level, he told her. His eyes glinted with a hint of mischief. Hitomi knew that his statement had a dual meaning. Imagining the feel of his arms around her, she almost drifted off into a daydream. She could hardly believe she was here with Dilandau, the one person she wanted to spend eternity with. Nevertheless, she wasn't ready to go all the way just now. Guys always wanted to take things fast, but Hitomi knew from experience that it wasn't always the best approach.

She'd been seeing him for six months. Six months had passed by so fast. And yet, she didn't know him as well as she would like to. His thoughts were usually kept private from her. Hitomi didn't even have any idea of what it was like to be on the battlefield, to be a soldier. Dilandau's past was a complete mystery.

Maybe playing it safe was the best bet. What do you mean?

Dilandau, who was now well into his fourth glass of wine, was slightly red in the face and looking a little unsteady. Haven't you thought at all about what you mean to me?

Of course I have. Every single day.

I mean about us, he said. Are you really serious about being with me?

She looked him straight in the eyes.

He moved a little closer. Hitomi could smell the spice of the red wine on his breath when he spoke. And you plan to stay with me?

Hitomi set down her glass and reached for his. I do, but I don't know if I want . . . what you want.

How do you know? The glass in his right hand was empty. Hitomi grabbed it before he could refill. How do you know we aren't meant to be more to each other if we never try to find out?

I didn't say we can't . . . I just don't want to right now.

He placed a gentle kiss on her lips. It was enough to completely confuse her. What did she want, anyway? Was she still bound by the old traditions . . . did she really believe she had to save herself for marriage? A rebel by nature, Hitomi was used to changing the rules to fit whatever suited her. She truly lived for herself, a trait she shared with Dilandau.

Oh, what the hell. She sank into Dilandau's strong arms and kissed him back. Before long, she felt the grass against her bare shoulders. His lips brushed her neck and she knew what would happen next.

Or not.

Lord Van, I found her! Merle leapt gleefully from behind a particularly large and thick bush into plain view. She took one look at Hitomi and Dilandau and, with an evil grin crossing her features, added, Come quick! There's somebody else here!

Hitomi pushed Dilandau away, hardly noting that he showed no resistance and scrambled to make herself look presentable. A moment later, Van leapt through the bushes next to Merle. Shit . . .

he yelled as Hitomi pulled her dress down over her legs. What's going on here? He turned and saw Dilandau. Who the—Dilandau Albatou! What the hell are you doing here?!

Dilandau smiled drunkenly. What does it look like?

Hitomi covered her face.

Van got a very disgusted look on his face. How dare you come here, Zaibach scum!

Hey. . . Dilandau, quite unsteadily, got to his feet. That's not very nice. That's no way to treat a foreign dignitary.

Van scowled and yanked his sword from its sheath on his back. Hitomi had told him about Dilandau's ploy six months ago and the king had never lived it down. You're no dignitary!

With that remark, Van leapt howling at Dilandau, who, despite being obviously very drunk, was able to draw his own weapon and block before Van could even make a scratch. Van pulled back and drove for a different spot, near Dilandau's legs. That didn't work either.

With every attack that failed, Van grew more angry. It did not help any that Dilandau had taken to laughing every time he blocked a sword stroke. From near the bushes, Merle was hissing and yelling obscenities at Dilandau while Hitomi had stood and was circling the fighters slowly, trying to think of a way to stop them before they got themselves killed.

Maybe you should get a sparring partner, Van, Dilandau suggested after kicking the king roughly in the stomach, sending him to the ground coughing. A little practice would do you good.

Dilandau, just drop it! Hitomi called. Dilandau turned and smiled at her.

Seeing his adversary was distracted, Van leapt to his feet and rushed at Dilandau, who barely had time to turn around and look when a misaimed strike flicked across his cheek.

Dilandau swore and raised one hand to his face, covering the spot where the sword had stuck, which had begun to bleed.

Van backed away a pace and settled into a ready position. Hitomi could see he was relishing in his victory. Good thing Van is such a pathetic aim, or he could have killed Dilandau. She decided it was time to put a stop to this once and for all.

Dilandau had taken his hand from his face and was gripping his sword tightly, looking sober and determined. His cheek was smudged with red and a fresh trickle of blood was beginning to ooze from the wound.

Maybe you should practice, Van taunted.

Dilandau raised his sword and rushed at Van. The king, who hadn't expected his opponent to continue the fight, was ill prepared and suffered a painful blow to his right shoulder. If Dilandau weren't drunk, that would have struck Van's heart. Another sweeping strike injured the arm further, causing Van to drop his sword.

Gripping his arm tightly, he tried to run, but the flat of Dilandau's sword tripped him. The silver-haired lord advanced on his fallen foe slowly and purposefully. Before he could raise his weapon to strike Van again, however, Hitomi darted between them.

Dilandau's glossy eyes focused on her. Get out of the way, he said.

Hitomi shook her head. What good will it do you to kill the king of Fanelia?

Lossa good. Though his speech was becoming slurred, Hitomi could tell his thoughts were still mostly clear. It'll end the war.

But what about you?

I'll be a hero.

No, I don't think you'd even leave the gardens alive. Dilandau lowered his sword as he listened. Merle scurried to Van's side, glaring at Dilandau and Hitomi through her tears. Merle will call the guards and with you in your condition, you could never beat them.

I could run, he offered, waving a hand back at the forest leading away from the palace.

That's right, you should run, Hitomi agreed. Grabbing his hand, she guided the sword to its sheath. Dilandau looked slightly confused as Hitomi took his arm and turned them away.

What about you?

I'll be just fine, she assured him. They know me, but you should go before there's trouble. Hitomi kissed his cheek, the one that wasn't bleeding.

Dilandau smiled and leaned down to kiss her back, but Hitomi pushed him away.

You should really go.

He nodded. I'll see you later, then . . . Feeling somewhat dizzy, Dilandau left Hitomi's supportive grip and disappeared into the cloak of the trees at dusk.

Hitomi turned back to Van and Merle, feeling as if her heart would burst. Both gave her looks of intense anger, but said nothing. Hitomi held out a hand to help Van but he knocked it away and struggled to his feet. What do you think you were doing with that guy? he demanded.

None of your business, she retorted sourly, her good mood gone. Why, are you jealous?

Van said with such ferocity that Hitomi believed him. I just can't believe you would even want to be around that bastard. Look what he did to me!

Hitomi looked, but felt no remorse. Don't even try asking for pity. You're the one who attacked him.

Van grabbed his sword and supported himself on it like a crutch. He's the enemy. It's my duty to protect Fanelia from any possible threat.

Hitomi rolled her eyes. If you listened to me, you'd be doing a far better job. When my being with Dilandau becomes a threat to Fanelia, I'll let you know. With that, she turned and made her way back through the garden maze to the palace, ignoring Merle's screams to come help Lord Van. Perhaps being around Dilandau so often colored her judgement. Her unstable relationship with Van was falling apart, but there was no way she would acknowledge it.

* * *

The dusty twilight stars that hung over Asturia were obstructed from view by the thick cover of fog that had been hanging over the country for the past few days. It was really starting to get Millerna down.

It didn't improve matters that the armored blonde knight before her had stated downright that he was leaving. Millerna, draped in a light, gauzy white robe, was seated at the end of a silk covered bed, her face turned down in a very princess-like pout. Allen, however, was unmoved by her.

"Why do you have to leave now?" Millerna asked. "I thought you were going to stay with me today."

"I would if I could," he said, "but this is important. I fear Freid might be headed for trouble with Zaibach." He looked away, turning toward an open window and gazing wistfully outside. "I don't think Prince Chid will know what to do in this situation."

Millerna stood and walked over to him, placing a hand delicately on his shoulder. Her sad sky blue eyes looked sullenly over the deserted courtyard below the tower from which they watched. "When will you be back?"

"I don't know." Allen turned and looked down at her, his face blank and portraying nothing of his thoughts or intentions. "Soon, I hope." Tilting her chin ever so slightly up, he placed a soft, lingering kiss on her cherry lips. Millerna's heart leapt and she felt as if she would just die when he backed away.

"Princess Millerna." The knight bowed with courtly respect as he turned to leave. "May you and your husband be well."

"Allen, you know I'd leave Dryden in an instant if it meant I could be with you," Millerna insisted breathily.

Allen brushed a few strands of her wavy pale blonde hair between his fingers. "Yes, I know."

With a swish of his long, sun-colored hair and a few soft clanks of armor, Allen turned and exited the room.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

Rai: All righty. Hope you guys enjoyed chappie three! It hasn't gone through as many stages of editing as the previous ones have, because we both got our internet access restricted. Damn parents!
Des: :(
Folkie: Mmmm..... cake....
Rai: Shout-outs are postponed to next chapter. Sorry!
Dilly: *singing along with West Side Story' soundtrack* I feel pretty! Oh so pretty! I feel pretty, and witty, and –
Taekorra: *appears from behind a potted plant* EAT CHEESY PUFFS!
Dilly: :( How dare you interrupt me? I was singing!
Taekorra: *grins* Precisely.