A/N: Yes, yes, my chick-a-dees, this is still a Van/Hitomi fiction!!! I just don't know how to explain all these actions!! Oh right, :Cough: I do..I'm the writer and plot twists are my game...mwahaha..it all unfolds clearly as the story reveals it's true self...Like a good soap opera! Anyways, this is the chapter you've all be waiting for- where my own ideas come into play, and the real story is nothing but a path behind us....:cues evil music: Oh yeah, uhm Dilandau has a crush. 3 And he's not gay. I hate male on male fics. It's not pleasing to me.
Dedicated to: Kechia, Honeypot, Infinitis, Cherryblossombabe, and of course SabineballZ
[This episode: No fortune-telling Hitomi, but 'her world' shows us something that is not meant to be... And are things really what they are? Is this all just a dream..or maybe a vision! (can you tell i really like that line? lol) This chapter is fluffy, or at least I think...you all are happy with fluff? And maybe sad, bittersweet love. Maybe. I don't know. Right now I'm bs-ing this, so HAHAHAHAA. Who knows what I'll do.]
She can't succumb to the darkness- to the fleeting sensation of warmth and intimacy, to the new feeling as her heart flutters and her body stiffens even more, to the loathing of this kiss, and her own stupidity (why didn't she do anything?). Her eyes didn't shut, not even for a blink, and she didn't melt into him, like he wanted. Her mind, screaming at her to move, move move!, and her heart yelling a name, any name but his, 'Van! Allen! Amano!'
...No, no no no no noononono...Not Allen..not Amano...Van. Her heart clamored and hollered, 'Van! Van do something! Van, save me!' and her mind just wouldn't do anything. The boy with the silver in front of her, his eyes of blood, and his disrespectful ways. He whose name was the devil itself. -How dare he-.........
Her eyes finally did what the rest of her could not. She looked at Van.
Van, was in a state of a furious shock. His whole body just gave way into depression, anger, hurt, jealousy, but most of all vengence. His heart raced with the speed of a thousand charging soldiers, his blood racing through him like a flooded river, sweat pulsating from his forhead. Insane fury took over him, like a breath of relief. Dilandau, his now archenemy, stood with her in his grasp. His lips locked on hers, and his arms wrapping around her body. His hands, gloved of black leather, tracing her curves in the most seductive way. (Didn't anyone else see this? Why isn't anyone doing anything?) She looked stiff, fazed and apalled, and until she looked at Van- lost.
When she looked at him with those green gorgeous orbs, he understood. He saw the pain, mixed with anguish, in her eyes, the unwillingness, and the untouched heart, that was pouding in her chest. The loathing of her captor and the needy glint- the desperation of help. She was calling to him, it seemed- a cry for help! Van understood, and he nodded, his raven locks flicking. He could save her. He was Van Fanel, a ruthless prince who kills all in his path. And currently in his way was a certain silver-head Dilandau Albatou. He looked at him with pure, utter hatred and disgust. -How dare he-..........
And his eyes finally did what the rest of him could not. He looked at Dilandau and plotted.
Dilandau, was in a state of pure bliss, and of total nirvana. A beautiful girl, who he knows is named Hitomi, in his arms, not so much kissing him, but not objecting. He just wished that she would return the kiss, and let it be that. She wouldn't fold against him, fit his movements, or even wrap her arms around him. His closed eyes slowly opened, just enough to see her, and she looked like an angel. Mentally, he grinned. She hated him. Good. She loathed him. Better. She feared him. Best. But most of all, she was vunerable. None of these other nitwits bothered to do anything, so Dilandau decided he was going to milk it for what it's worth. He moved his hands along the edge of her exposed thigh. He moaned, and his eyes flutter- his thick silver eyelashes mesh and flicker.
A trigger to the explosion, if you will.
Before Dilandau knew what was happening, he was flung off of her- his mouth torn from the warmth, and hit the ground with such force it almost hurt. Almost. His head hit the wood boards of the floor, and his limbs seem to follow suit, crushing him into someone else. Slowly sitting up in the most graceful way possible, he saw what caused the disruption. That boy. -How dare he-...............
Van.
---------------------------------------------(Episode Six: Nirvana)------------------------------------------------
"What in the hell did you think you were doing?" Van errupted, with the fury of the gods, usually calm and composed, in his eyes. A very thankful Hitomi behind him, gripping onto his very short sleeve- hiding herself from him. He stood poised, with a threatning blade at his side, unsheathed. Dilandau, to keep his calm and pissed-as-ever attitude, slowly stood, swaying. Van sneered, his usual cynical trademark sneer, and demanded, "Answer me!"
"Just when it was getting interesting," Dilandau clicked his tounge and snapped his fingers, which didn't seem to work to well as they were gloved. He chuckled, and ran a hand through his hair. It gleamed and as if tamed, fell back into perfect position, framing his face. He glanced at Hitomi, scared and doe-eyed, and than at Van, murderous. Dilandau smiled a fanged smile, and chuckled. "You know, Van, she really does taste sweet. Like honey, perhaps. Did you know that? I bet you didn't...Hey, Hitomi, have you ever kissed-"
"Damn you.." Van cursed, interrupting, poison seething through his teeth. Flicks of gold flashing in his eyes. Hitomi turned a deep shade of red, and looked down at the floor. "I should kill you right here.."
"That's enough Van," Allen remarked, and raised a hand. "There shall be no blood shed at this fort. Not at least today. Dilandau, your supplies are waiting you. I suggest you receive them and leave."
"Thank you, Allen Shezar," Dilandau emphasized his name and clapped his hands. The echoing of the leather clap sounded throughout the hall. His troops filed out,as fashionably as they entered, their legs in perfect sync. "You're just as the rumors say.."
"I'll take that as a compliment," Allen replied, his composure still steadfast. The pyro smirked and winked at Hitomi, who turned even redder. Van snarled. He gave her another look. She does have the prettiest eyes, he thought, and such soft lips.
"This isn't over, Hitomi," he whispered to her, loud enough for Van to hear as he was in front of her, "You'll be in my dreams. Take care now.."
"....Pervert," Hitomi muttered under her breath. She frowned, and told herself that she would at least have to wash her mouth 100 times before it would ever be clean. She turned her attention to Van, who was still poised and ready to at least strangle Dilandau to death. She released his shirt, and as if that was the cue, he returned his sword to its home. He turned to her, with a softness and gentleness she had not seem in him before. He reached his gloved hand to her chin, and tilted it upwards, inspecting her. He thumbed her lips, and without thinking about it, brushed locks of her soft brown hair away from her eyes.
"He didn't hurt you, did he?" He asked, unaware of her nervousness. She shook her head 'no' and closed her eyes. Her heart fluttered, as it had not done with Dilandau. Her palms grew sweaty and she felt a blush creeping upon her cheeks. Van, she thought..Van rescued me. She reopened her eyes to his- his gentle, yet amazingly cold eyes. His beautiful brownish red, rich eyes, searching her for scars. [Not all scars are seen] "I don't know what I would've done..Hitomi..."
"Van..." She breathed, in a whisper, in a voice that was not her own. Is he going to kiss me, Hitomi asked herself, is he going to.... He leaned foward, with such a boldness he did not know he had.
"It appears we're safe for now," Allen interrupted. Hitomi mentally cursed him, but covered it up with a smile. Van appeared to do the same, but instead of a smile was his usual scowl and 'I-hate-you-and-wish-you-would-die' look in his eyes. Why is he like that? Hitomi asked herself, gentle one second..then a demon the next. I don't get him..
Why does he have to act that way? Doesn't he see that he's a great person- and that shell is just blocking his trueself? Why...why should I care? Why do I care, Hitomi asked herself mentally. Van... "But it appears you're going to have a reputation in Zaibach, Hitomi. And maybe you too, Van."
"Super.."
[Scene II]
She blinked. And again. And no longer was she there. She was suspended, in a place that reminded her of outerspace- except the background was a blend of purple and green, twriling and mixing, throwing her off balance. But, she discovered, that her feet were not even on any sort of ground. She wasn't on any sort of plane of existence. There was noone there, and try as she might, she could not move. Her body was locked, frozen between nausea and numbness. She tries to resist, tries to move- break free and glide her way back to the ground (if there was one). But alas, it does not work. She's stuck. Stuck in a place that is not a place, in her body (or so she was sure).
She couldn't breath. Her chest moved, but no air entered. Was there air even present? Was this some sort of illusion such as before? Was her mind going into a state of delirium? Was she in fact thinking?
Tangled in strings she could not see, Hitomi whispered, "Am I dead?"
But in a place where time, space, and matter does not exist, how could anyone answer? How could she talk, yet not breath? Did she even talk at all? Did sound vibrate, or was it simply a trick? Her body glowed, an essence that would make the moon look dim. Her pale skin contrasted against the waves of violet and moss. Her brown skirt, a mahogany brown, oozing with cotton- a material foreign to the plane. Her shirt, more polyester and silk, seemed softer against her skin. She felt drowsy and tired. A sleepiness had swept over her, blanketing her in comfort.
She started not to care. So what if she was dead? If being dead felt so good, then she was glad to be dead. Her body relaxed, and soon she drifted, slowly but surely, into nothingness. She closed her eyes, enjoying the warmth that held her body there. She smiled, a coy and peaceful smile. Her limbs extended through enternity, her hair swayed through infinity, and her heart pounded through forever. It was like being in love.
And then there was nothing. No warmth, no purple, no green, so restraints, no air, no illusions, no thought. As the black absorbed all, her feet touched down. And as her feet hit something hard, the world started to come into existence. Brown earth, crusted dirt, spread through her toes and out into the blackness. Grass grew, swifter than anything, almost at Godspeed. Flowers blossomed, and she could see the seeds become flowers in a blink of an eye. The earth that she created rushed through the darkness, like a flood through a small town. Mountains formed, lakes bursted, trees popped up (reminding her of a pop-up book she had as a child).
And as she created the earth, she smiled. Above her, the bluest blue exploded and expanded across millenia. Clouds formed and sifted, perfectly placing themselves. Her heart swelled. White birds fluttered carelessly above her, singing foreign songs in a foreign tounge.
"Beautiful." She awed. And everything stopped. So doing what anyone would do, she walked. And she walked. Admiring her creations, and not questioning how it came to be. It was her world. It sprung from her thought. She didn't understand how she did it, she just knew. And with that, the sun came up. And the world set fire. Pinks, oranges, reds, purples, yellows and all of the other warm colors churned through her world, settling and casting shadows. And she was at peace. The warmth was the last piece of the puzzle.
"Hitomi." She heard someone call. But from where? She turned to the east, and saw nothing. She turned to the west, and saw nothing. To the south, there was nothing. And after a full 360 turn to face back north, she saw him. And he was gorgeous. He stood there, appearing out of nowhere.
With heavy legs and butterflies in her stomach, she went to him. His tan arms were outstreched, open and waiting for her to embrace him. His hair, the deepest black she's ever seen, swayed in the wind of her breath. His smile, the warmest and most welcoming, played on his soft lips. And his wine eyes were so full of care and happiness. She reached out her hand, and her forefinger touched his gloved one.
And it all started to dissapeared. Quickly, before she could take a breath, it all was gone. As if it wasn't meant to be. It started to evaporate into millions of peices, like a nova exploding all around her. She panicked.
"Van!" It was a simply cry, and before his face had completley melted away, his eyes pierced her heart and he said softly,
"I'll always be here." And then he was gone, away with the rest of the world. And again she found in herself in the darkness. Alone and cold and miserable. Van and I are not meant to be together, Hitomi thought bitterly, is that what this says? How cruel is this? Where at last I think I know and then it's gone? How long am I going to sit here, cold and alone? How long before he returns? Or maybe, she continued to question, I'm meant to be alone..? She knelt, her knees casting light against the blackened ground.
She folded her hands against her skirt, her thighs, and sighed. And without her knowing, a single glowing feather drifted down. The light it emitted was so bright, so warm, she looked up and simply caught it between her two longest fingers. She smiled, and called out, "I know. I love you too."
And she could find herself walking in the darkness, alone. But she was happy. She knew he loved her, and that thought alone was now her whole world. So maybe it was dark and the path was new- she had a beacon of light to show her the way.
--------------------------
"How long has she been asleep?" He asked, walking towards the boy, hunched over a bed where she layed. The room was dim, lit by a single candle that stood solo on the table in the corner of the room. He, a boy younger than him by at least 6 years, sat on a stool, his one leg awkwardly tucked underneath him, and the other bent against the floor, and which seemed to hold most of his weight. In his gloved, clasped hands was one of hers. He seemed genuinely concerned, and had it not been for the display earlier, in love. "Are you going to answer me?"
"Allen," the boy growled, annoyed and perplexed. He let go of her hand and set it down softly against the blanket. He turned and stood, warily and cramped. "She's been sleeping for at least a day. How long were you spying?"
"I wasn't spying, Van." He replied, nonchantly. It was the first time Van had seen Allen without his armor on. He wore black leather plants, and a white top- opened to see his bare chest, which seemed whiter than it should've been. There was a ribbon or sash of purple between the two, against his hip.. Allens' long blond hair, shimmering in the candlelight, was pulled together in a simply ribbon. The older man crossed his arms, and leaned against the doorframe, his blackboots crossing one another. He looked like a knight indeed, and his arrogance pulled it off well. "Do you think she will love you?"
"What?" Van rasped. Allens gaudiness and straight-fowardness caught Van off gaurd. What right did he have asking those sort of questions anyway? It was none of Allens business, and yet the knight acted like it was. The blondes voice was monotone, and had it not been for the glimmer in his eye, Van could have sworn Allen was mocking him. "You know, Allen. I vowed to protect her. How can I protect her if she doesn't wake up? I know, it sounds foolish- call me crazy. I barely know her. I barely know you. I don't know what I've got myself mixed up into. But, I know something for sure. I know that if anyone, especially Dilandau, lays another finger on her in a way I don't like or she doesn't like- I'll personally chop off their genitalia."
"You didn't answer my question." Allen spoke, softly and unfazed by Vans burst of emotion. He turned his back to the young warrior, and started to proceed down the hall. "You know, Van. I wouldn't want to be your enemy. I'm quite fond of my genitalia. But anyways, Van- she can't return your love unless she knows. Are you willing to take that risk? To give your heart to a girl you barely know? Are you willing to risk the wrath of Zaibach for a girl with green eyes and brown hair? Are you going to take that leap of faith and tell her what your heart knows? Because I, Allen Shezar, will if you do not."
"Allen," Van began, a sneer across his face, "if you dare even look at her in a manner that is less than gentlemanish, you'll regret it."
"I highly doubt that."
"Shows what you know." Van muttered, as Allen left. The nerve, Van thought bitterly. He returned to his position by her bed. He watched her, with keen eyes. He watched the way her chest slowly moved to match her breathing. The way her hair layed, tossled and unbrushed around her. She looked like an angel, sleeping and innocent. But that's what she was, right? Innocence in its purest form. And, Van supposed, that's what drew him to her. Her laugh, her carefree ways, the way she didn't know pain and hurt and sorrow. She was opposite of him. His life was nothing but death and killing. He lived to kill, afterall. But this girl- with green eyes- could change that. Maybe. He was, in fact, willing to give it all up to protect her. She would never have to know of the hurt, the pain, the burdens. He would protect her innocence. It'd put his soul at ease to know what she didn't.
And for once, he was happy with his life. He would happily kill for her, just to protect her innocence. He knew that with every person he had killed, she didn't have to. She would never have those sins on her heart. It was his nirvana, his way out. She was his way out of all of that guilt.
With such swiftness, he took up her hand, and placed her fingers on his lips, and kissed the upperpart. He placed her hand where he kissed against her cheek. She smiled, and he was shocked. Was she awake? No, she was not. His eyes became soft, and he closed them.
"Sleep well, Hitomi. I'll always be here. I'll be here when you wake up." He said, and sat back in the stool, watching her sleep. He crossed his arms and smiled. "Sleep well."
Outside of the room, Allen leaned against the wall. He smiled. So he might have to push Van towards her, eh? This might be fun.
[Scene III]
"They have a woman in there, you know." He clicked his tounge and frowned. Against the shadowed steel wall, Folken moved. His movements were silent and descrete. Dilandau watched him through red eyes. To him, Folken reminded him of a large cat, perhaps a panther. His body hidden beneath the black cloak, and his eyes always full of wonder and a sense of knowing. Like he knew when something was going to happen before it happened, or already happened, or what was happening. He seemed to know the past, the present, and the future. Dilandau knew that he was smart, and agile. He had to be. Dilandau also knew not to cross a line with him.
"Oh?" It was more of a question than a reply, and in a disinterested manner. Dilandau scowled and glowered. He hated it when people thought they were smarter than him. It bothered him, and it hurt his ego. Folken seemed to be calculating one move to the next. The strategos seemed disinterested in Dilandaus attempt to get a rouse of him. He decided to play the 'Van' card.
"Oh yes, " Dilandau continued, in a voice full of sheer delight, "and so was a boy named Van. (that seemed to spark an interest) I think it was his woman whom I kissed. She tasted sweet, and I think I'd like her around. She seems like she'd be a good fu-"
"Go back, Dilandau." Folken cut him off, knowing that Dilandau would go off on a tangent about screwing. "Boy named Van? Explain. Elaborate."
"Oh sure, now you want to know-" Dilandau was inwardly giggling. He knew that would get Folkens' attention. Dilandau, was the king of gossip on board of the Vione. Everyone knew it. Folkens' patience was wearing thin. If Dilandau knew something, Folken would have to pry that information out of him. But it seemed, the blue-haired man knew that the red-eyed boy would spill what he knew. It was a sure thing, just like you knew the sun would come out after rain. Dilandau loved to share what he knew, and in the most giddy of ways.
"Dilandau," Folken sputtered, lips pursed. " I'm not in the mood for your games. Tell me what you know. You do realise that Van Fanel is the king of Fanalia, right? If this is the same Van.."
"Oh really?" Dilandau seemed to mentally jot that down. He crossed his arms, closed his eyes, and leaned against the railing. Below him, the world silently sat. The Vione was hovered above plains on the other side of a mountain that separated them and Allen Shezars fort. A forest sat convieniently adjacent to the mountain, the passage between them. Dilandau mused, and continued, "He was a hot-headed type of pissant. Black hair, tanned skin, brownish eyes. His face always seemed to be in a scowl...He was very unpleasent to look at."
"That definately sounds like the king of Fanalia." Folken contemplated. He looked at Dilandau, who had a coy smile played on his lips. And as he watched Dilandau, Folken saw Dilandaus gloved hands move to his lips- his eyes still closed. Than, abruptly, Folken continued, "Tell me of the girl."
This pleased Dilandau, Folken discovered. His eyes shot open, the pink become larger and paler than he had remembered. Of course, Dilandau was the one to memorize details, not him. He was better for the main picture. Dilandau gripped the railings, and started to sway back and forth. He laughed and began, "She was gorgeous, to say the least. Brown hair- but a golden brown that shimmered in the candlelight. And such green, large eyes. They were greener than the grass in the middle of spring... And her lips were soft, oh yes. (Dilandau licked his lips and Folken was sure he was thinking perverted things, as Dilandau does) She was dressed oddly, however. Clothes that I have never seen before. She...she was interesting. She talked to me in a manner none have yet dared too. It was amusing."
"I see." Folken commented. Odd clothing, the strategos smiled and thought- Lord Dornkirk would surely wish to hear of such matters. He planned to tell him later, when Dilandau wasn't busy lecturing him on this-and-that. Inwardly, he did admit to himself that Dilandau had his purposes.
"So the King of Dragons is in the fort? He was right in my grasp... To imagine. And I pissed him off. Lovely," the pyro giggled. "I wanted to kiss her. I didn't do it just to piss them off, that was just a perk. Something drew me to her, even if she didn't feel the same. Something was different about her. She had spirit. She wasn't like anyone I have ever met. I have to see her again."
"First we capture the dragon, Dilandau. You know not to disobey orders. Besides, Lord Dornkirk might want her for something," the wiser one scolded. Dilandau laughed, and stood up straight- running a hand through his silver locks.
"I know, I know." Dilandau turned and started to head the opposite way Folken was heading. His boots clicked loudly against the steel, and the metallic tinker echoed throughout the hall.
"Where are you going?" Folken asked. He heard Dilandau laugh again, and he narrowed his eyes. "Don't get yourself in trouble."
"Don't have a spaz, Strategos. I just need some fresh air." Dilandau called, dissapearing into the darkness. He heard Folken sigh and continue down the hall towards that strange room where he was able to talk to their Lord. The boy general headed towards a different door, and opened it. Before him, a balcony appeared. A rather large and empty balcony, mind you. He walked over to the opened ledge, where he could see the sky and the land. A soft wind blew through the area, and he leaned against the bars. He closed his eyes, enjoying the fresh air and the smell of the world. Suddenly, he saw her eyes. He let her name escape his lips, "Hitomi."
Yes, she was different and that attracted him. She held the aura of something unknown, unattainable. It gave him a rush, such the fleeting feeling of fear, when he leaned into her, kissing her. She had stiffened beneath him, his weight probably to much for her. He had crushed his lips against her, pried her mouth open- and she had done nothing. Maybe she had enjoyed it, like he did. His thoughts wandered on to Van.
That stupid boy. Peon. Pissant. Bastard. Hero... Dilandau shuddered. He knew instinctavely that he would not like Van. After all, Van is what seperated and destroyed their kiss. All because he was jealous- Dilandau was sure of it that Van was jealous of him. And why should he not be? He was Dilandau Albatou, leader of the dragon slayers. Elite class, general at age of 13. Gorgeous looks, if Dilandau did say so himself. Whisps of silvery-white hair, blood-red eyes, and quite a handsome face. Not an extremely pointy chin, like Allen Shezar, and not to much of a rounded one, like Van. A slender nose, and thin lips. He had muscles, oh yes, because he was able to pick up a good 130 pounds and throw it 10 feet. He had broad shoulders, good for holding women (or so Dilandau claimed). He didn't look scrawny like Van, or awkward like Allen either.
Hitomi was lucky that he chose to kiss her. Most females would love to be in her position. So why didn't she? Why didn't she want to kiss him back? Maybe it was because of that cursed love. Did she love Van? Dilandaus' throat stiffened, and a lumped formed. He silently scolded himself, 'Of course she doesn't love Van. You will get her, all in good time, Dilandau.' But Dilandau was impatient.
The sun started to set a good while back, and now the night sky took over. It must've been at least 9 o'clock, as the stars were bright and illuminous. The sky was blanketed with them, and the moonlight bathed Dilandau and the rest of the world.
What was she doing now? She seemed like a good little girl- probably sleeping. Hopefully not in Vans' arms, or under Vans' eyes. Dilandau tightened his grip on the railing. He felt his hate for Van swell. It throbbed in his chest. To soothe his thoughts, Dilandau thought of Hitomi. His grip loosened, and soon he found himself on the ground, and nothing fazed him. His thoughts were of her.
Was he in love? Did love feel like this? Is this what if felt like to be in love? Nothing seemed to touch him, and she lingered on his thoughts well past midnight. He finally decided it was time for bed. He could dream of her tonight. That would be his nirvana, his sublime. Her. She would flee to him before he was done. She would call out his name, and hold onto him for protection....
And tomorrow he would capture Van, and claim her as his own. Dilandau Albatou smiled. Who knew a monster could feel love so deep?
[Scene IV]
"Hitomi are you going to sleep all day?" She heard someone call. A feminine voice. Slowly opening her eyes, the sun blinded her. Without thought, her hand flew to cover her eyes from the blinding light. The voice continued, "I leave you alone to sunbathe for two minutes, and look! You fall asleep. How lazy."
"I wasn't sunbathing." She replied. Wait, what was she doing? She was, oh she couldn't remember. But it wasn't sunbathing. She was walking, yes she remembered. She furrowed her brows and thought harder. Before she was walking, there was nothing. The brunnette sighed, and sat up, rubbing her eyes. "I was...I was.."
"Sunbathing, like I said." The voiced laughed, and Hitomi felt a presence sit down next to her. Her eyes were still sore, and not adjusted to the light at all. Her head pounded, and her feet ached. How long was she walking? She could see faces surfacing, but before they could, the voice continued, "You do look really cute in that, Hitomi. Those sandles are adorable. This summer is going pretty well, ne?"
"Yukari?" Hitomi murmered, opening her eyes. And next to her, with bright brown eyes and dark brown hair, (pulled back into two braids), was Yukari. She was wearing a yellow sundress, with sunflowers all over it. It was short, and Hitomi noticed the lack of shoes. Where was she? On the beach? She was sitting on a blanket, and slowly moving, it felt like she WAS on sand. And in the background, other voices started to come into play. There was laughing, the sound of the waves crashing, seagulls cooing overhead, flies buzzing, and every other sound of the beach. "Why are we at the beach?"
"Uh, yeah? Who else would it be?" Yukari giggled. "Geez Hitomi, did the sun fry your brain or what? Don't you remember? Hello! Earth to Hitomi, haha okay.. Anyways, last saturday after Amano left for England, you promised you would get your mind off of him. I suggested the beach, and you said sure! So I was like, okay then let's go, so here we are! How could you forget?"
"Sorry, I guess my mind was someplace else.." Hitomi muttered. She looked down at her feet, which had plain black sandles on them. She wore a white dress, short and spaghetti strap. Funny, Hitomi thought, I don't remember owning this...or putting it on...or wearing this the last time.. She felt sore. And hot. "Let's head to the boardwalk. I'm hungry, and hot."
"Let's get some ice cream!" Yukari suggested. The duo stood, and started to head towards the peir, where stands upon stands of different shops stood. It was crowded, and the two slowly made their way through the crowd. Hitomi let her mind wander, as Yukari led her through the crowd. Amano left? She questioned, I didn't get to tell him...I don't remember what's happened since Saturday. Wait, what day is it? Who are these people that keep running into me and giving me odd looks? I don't remember...
A white van rolled by, with a logo of "Allen's Wines; Deep, rich, and oh-so-sweet". Hitomi watched it head towards a building, that looked different from the rest.. Van? Allen..Wine... They all seemed linked, Hitomi thought. Of course they do! They're all dealing with that business, she scolded herself. So why did it feel familiar? And why did she feel drawn to that building?
"Hitomi? HEY HITOMI!" Yukaris voice peirced her thoughts. She turned, and saw Yukari tapping her foot impatiently. "Well what type do you want?"
"Oh, I guess strawberry, please." Hitomi ordered. She felt a blush rising on her cheeks as she looked at the boy working. He had a well-built chest, and such silver hair. He smiled softly at her as he handed her the cone. "Thanks.."
"He was hot!" Yukari commented smarmily as they walked away from the counter, sauntering and arms looped together. Her icecream was dripping, but Yukari didn't seem to mind. The heat was nothing when the wind blew. Hitomi blushed deeper, and Yukari laughed. "Hey, let's eat over there..."
"Okay," Htiomi agreed, as they took a plastic table with an umbrella. They sat in its shade, and watched the surfers from a distance. Hitomi smiled as Yukari rated each of their tricks, and of course their falls. Her mind wandered, as her best friend babbled on.. But suddenly, a figure approached them. It was a male, and it appeared to have a surfboard tucked underneath his arm. He stopped, not five feet from where they were seated. She felt her heart rush, beating so fast. He was gorgeous...It was like de ja vu, looking at him. His black hair was soaked, clinging to his tanning face. He had such rich eyes, and a soft smile.
It clicked, and Hitomi dropped her ice cream.
"Van."
A/n: All will be explained next chapter. It's like getting all twilight zone on ya. HAHA! Review.
Dedicated to: Kechia, Honeypot, Infinitis, Cherryblossombabe, and of course SabineballZ
[This episode: No fortune-telling Hitomi, but 'her world' shows us something that is not meant to be... And are things really what they are? Is this all just a dream..or maybe a vision! (can you tell i really like that line? lol) This chapter is fluffy, or at least I think...you all are happy with fluff? And maybe sad, bittersweet love. Maybe. I don't know. Right now I'm bs-ing this, so HAHAHAHAA. Who knows what I'll do.]
She can't succumb to the darkness- to the fleeting sensation of warmth and intimacy, to the new feeling as her heart flutters and her body stiffens even more, to the loathing of this kiss, and her own stupidity (why didn't she do anything?). Her eyes didn't shut, not even for a blink, and she didn't melt into him, like he wanted. Her mind, screaming at her to move, move move!, and her heart yelling a name, any name but his, 'Van! Allen! Amano!'
...No, no no no no noononono...Not Allen..not Amano...Van. Her heart clamored and hollered, 'Van! Van do something! Van, save me!' and her mind just wouldn't do anything. The boy with the silver in front of her, his eyes of blood, and his disrespectful ways. He whose name was the devil itself. -How dare he-.........
Her eyes finally did what the rest of her could not. She looked at Van.
Van, was in a state of a furious shock. His whole body just gave way into depression, anger, hurt, jealousy, but most of all vengence. His heart raced with the speed of a thousand charging soldiers, his blood racing through him like a flooded river, sweat pulsating from his forhead. Insane fury took over him, like a breath of relief. Dilandau, his now archenemy, stood with her in his grasp. His lips locked on hers, and his arms wrapping around her body. His hands, gloved of black leather, tracing her curves in the most seductive way. (Didn't anyone else see this? Why isn't anyone doing anything?) She looked stiff, fazed and apalled, and until she looked at Van- lost.
When she looked at him with those green gorgeous orbs, he understood. He saw the pain, mixed with anguish, in her eyes, the unwillingness, and the untouched heart, that was pouding in her chest. The loathing of her captor and the needy glint- the desperation of help. She was calling to him, it seemed- a cry for help! Van understood, and he nodded, his raven locks flicking. He could save her. He was Van Fanel, a ruthless prince who kills all in his path. And currently in his way was a certain silver-head Dilandau Albatou. He looked at him with pure, utter hatred and disgust. -How dare he-..........
And his eyes finally did what the rest of him could not. He looked at Dilandau and plotted.
Dilandau, was in a state of pure bliss, and of total nirvana. A beautiful girl, who he knows is named Hitomi, in his arms, not so much kissing him, but not objecting. He just wished that she would return the kiss, and let it be that. She wouldn't fold against him, fit his movements, or even wrap her arms around him. His closed eyes slowly opened, just enough to see her, and she looked like an angel. Mentally, he grinned. She hated him. Good. She loathed him. Better. She feared him. Best. But most of all, she was vunerable. None of these other nitwits bothered to do anything, so Dilandau decided he was going to milk it for what it's worth. He moved his hands along the edge of her exposed thigh. He moaned, and his eyes flutter- his thick silver eyelashes mesh and flicker.
A trigger to the explosion, if you will.
Before Dilandau knew what was happening, he was flung off of her- his mouth torn from the warmth, and hit the ground with such force it almost hurt. Almost. His head hit the wood boards of the floor, and his limbs seem to follow suit, crushing him into someone else. Slowly sitting up in the most graceful way possible, he saw what caused the disruption. That boy. -How dare he-...............
Van.
---------------------------------------------(Episode Six: Nirvana)------------------------------------------------
"What in the hell did you think you were doing?" Van errupted, with the fury of the gods, usually calm and composed, in his eyes. A very thankful Hitomi behind him, gripping onto his very short sleeve- hiding herself from him. He stood poised, with a threatning blade at his side, unsheathed. Dilandau, to keep his calm and pissed-as-ever attitude, slowly stood, swaying. Van sneered, his usual cynical trademark sneer, and demanded, "Answer me!"
"Just when it was getting interesting," Dilandau clicked his tounge and snapped his fingers, which didn't seem to work to well as they were gloved. He chuckled, and ran a hand through his hair. It gleamed and as if tamed, fell back into perfect position, framing his face. He glanced at Hitomi, scared and doe-eyed, and than at Van, murderous. Dilandau smiled a fanged smile, and chuckled. "You know, Van, she really does taste sweet. Like honey, perhaps. Did you know that? I bet you didn't...Hey, Hitomi, have you ever kissed-"
"Damn you.." Van cursed, interrupting, poison seething through his teeth. Flicks of gold flashing in his eyes. Hitomi turned a deep shade of red, and looked down at the floor. "I should kill you right here.."
"That's enough Van," Allen remarked, and raised a hand. "There shall be no blood shed at this fort. Not at least today. Dilandau, your supplies are waiting you. I suggest you receive them and leave."
"Thank you, Allen Shezar," Dilandau emphasized his name and clapped his hands. The echoing of the leather clap sounded throughout the hall. His troops filed out,as fashionably as they entered, their legs in perfect sync. "You're just as the rumors say.."
"I'll take that as a compliment," Allen replied, his composure still steadfast. The pyro smirked and winked at Hitomi, who turned even redder. Van snarled. He gave her another look. She does have the prettiest eyes, he thought, and such soft lips.
"This isn't over, Hitomi," he whispered to her, loud enough for Van to hear as he was in front of her, "You'll be in my dreams. Take care now.."
"....Pervert," Hitomi muttered under her breath. She frowned, and told herself that she would at least have to wash her mouth 100 times before it would ever be clean. She turned her attention to Van, who was still poised and ready to at least strangle Dilandau to death. She released his shirt, and as if that was the cue, he returned his sword to its home. He turned to her, with a softness and gentleness she had not seem in him before. He reached his gloved hand to her chin, and tilted it upwards, inspecting her. He thumbed her lips, and without thinking about it, brushed locks of her soft brown hair away from her eyes.
"He didn't hurt you, did he?" He asked, unaware of her nervousness. She shook her head 'no' and closed her eyes. Her heart fluttered, as it had not done with Dilandau. Her palms grew sweaty and she felt a blush creeping upon her cheeks. Van, she thought..Van rescued me. She reopened her eyes to his- his gentle, yet amazingly cold eyes. His beautiful brownish red, rich eyes, searching her for scars. [Not all scars are seen] "I don't know what I would've done..Hitomi..."
"Van..." She breathed, in a whisper, in a voice that was not her own. Is he going to kiss me, Hitomi asked herself, is he going to.... He leaned foward, with such a boldness he did not know he had.
"It appears we're safe for now," Allen interrupted. Hitomi mentally cursed him, but covered it up with a smile. Van appeared to do the same, but instead of a smile was his usual scowl and 'I-hate-you-and-wish-you-would-die' look in his eyes. Why is he like that? Hitomi asked herself, gentle one second..then a demon the next. I don't get him..
Why does he have to act that way? Doesn't he see that he's a great person- and that shell is just blocking his trueself? Why...why should I care? Why do I care, Hitomi asked herself mentally. Van... "But it appears you're going to have a reputation in Zaibach, Hitomi. And maybe you too, Van."
"Super.."
[Scene II]
She blinked. And again. And no longer was she there. She was suspended, in a place that reminded her of outerspace- except the background was a blend of purple and green, twriling and mixing, throwing her off balance. But, she discovered, that her feet were not even on any sort of ground. She wasn't on any sort of plane of existence. There was noone there, and try as she might, she could not move. Her body was locked, frozen between nausea and numbness. She tries to resist, tries to move- break free and glide her way back to the ground (if there was one). But alas, it does not work. She's stuck. Stuck in a place that is not a place, in her body (or so she was sure).
She couldn't breath. Her chest moved, but no air entered. Was there air even present? Was this some sort of illusion such as before? Was her mind going into a state of delirium? Was she in fact thinking?
Tangled in strings she could not see, Hitomi whispered, "Am I dead?"
But in a place where time, space, and matter does not exist, how could anyone answer? How could she talk, yet not breath? Did she even talk at all? Did sound vibrate, or was it simply a trick? Her body glowed, an essence that would make the moon look dim. Her pale skin contrasted against the waves of violet and moss. Her brown skirt, a mahogany brown, oozing with cotton- a material foreign to the plane. Her shirt, more polyester and silk, seemed softer against her skin. She felt drowsy and tired. A sleepiness had swept over her, blanketing her in comfort.
She started not to care. So what if she was dead? If being dead felt so good, then she was glad to be dead. Her body relaxed, and soon she drifted, slowly but surely, into nothingness. She closed her eyes, enjoying the warmth that held her body there. She smiled, a coy and peaceful smile. Her limbs extended through enternity, her hair swayed through infinity, and her heart pounded through forever. It was like being in love.
And then there was nothing. No warmth, no purple, no green, so restraints, no air, no illusions, no thought. As the black absorbed all, her feet touched down. And as her feet hit something hard, the world started to come into existence. Brown earth, crusted dirt, spread through her toes and out into the blackness. Grass grew, swifter than anything, almost at Godspeed. Flowers blossomed, and she could see the seeds become flowers in a blink of an eye. The earth that she created rushed through the darkness, like a flood through a small town. Mountains formed, lakes bursted, trees popped up (reminding her of a pop-up book she had as a child).
And as she created the earth, she smiled. Above her, the bluest blue exploded and expanded across millenia. Clouds formed and sifted, perfectly placing themselves. Her heart swelled. White birds fluttered carelessly above her, singing foreign songs in a foreign tounge.
"Beautiful." She awed. And everything stopped. So doing what anyone would do, she walked. And she walked. Admiring her creations, and not questioning how it came to be. It was her world. It sprung from her thought. She didn't understand how she did it, she just knew. And with that, the sun came up. And the world set fire. Pinks, oranges, reds, purples, yellows and all of the other warm colors churned through her world, settling and casting shadows. And she was at peace. The warmth was the last piece of the puzzle.
"Hitomi." She heard someone call. But from where? She turned to the east, and saw nothing. She turned to the west, and saw nothing. To the south, there was nothing. And after a full 360 turn to face back north, she saw him. And he was gorgeous. He stood there, appearing out of nowhere.
With heavy legs and butterflies in her stomach, she went to him. His tan arms were outstreched, open and waiting for her to embrace him. His hair, the deepest black she's ever seen, swayed in the wind of her breath. His smile, the warmest and most welcoming, played on his soft lips. And his wine eyes were so full of care and happiness. She reached out her hand, and her forefinger touched his gloved one.
And it all started to dissapeared. Quickly, before she could take a breath, it all was gone. As if it wasn't meant to be. It started to evaporate into millions of peices, like a nova exploding all around her. She panicked.
"Van!" It was a simply cry, and before his face had completley melted away, his eyes pierced her heart and he said softly,
"I'll always be here." And then he was gone, away with the rest of the world. And again she found in herself in the darkness. Alone and cold and miserable. Van and I are not meant to be together, Hitomi thought bitterly, is that what this says? How cruel is this? Where at last I think I know and then it's gone? How long am I going to sit here, cold and alone? How long before he returns? Or maybe, she continued to question, I'm meant to be alone..? She knelt, her knees casting light against the blackened ground.
She folded her hands against her skirt, her thighs, and sighed. And without her knowing, a single glowing feather drifted down. The light it emitted was so bright, so warm, she looked up and simply caught it between her two longest fingers. She smiled, and called out, "I know. I love you too."
And she could find herself walking in the darkness, alone. But she was happy. She knew he loved her, and that thought alone was now her whole world. So maybe it was dark and the path was new- she had a beacon of light to show her the way.
--------------------------
"How long has she been asleep?" He asked, walking towards the boy, hunched over a bed where she layed. The room was dim, lit by a single candle that stood solo on the table in the corner of the room. He, a boy younger than him by at least 6 years, sat on a stool, his one leg awkwardly tucked underneath him, and the other bent against the floor, and which seemed to hold most of his weight. In his gloved, clasped hands was one of hers. He seemed genuinely concerned, and had it not been for the display earlier, in love. "Are you going to answer me?"
"Allen," the boy growled, annoyed and perplexed. He let go of her hand and set it down softly against the blanket. He turned and stood, warily and cramped. "She's been sleeping for at least a day. How long were you spying?"
"I wasn't spying, Van." He replied, nonchantly. It was the first time Van had seen Allen without his armor on. He wore black leather plants, and a white top- opened to see his bare chest, which seemed whiter than it should've been. There was a ribbon or sash of purple between the two, against his hip.. Allens' long blond hair, shimmering in the candlelight, was pulled together in a simply ribbon. The older man crossed his arms, and leaned against the doorframe, his blackboots crossing one another. He looked like a knight indeed, and his arrogance pulled it off well. "Do you think she will love you?"
"What?" Van rasped. Allens gaudiness and straight-fowardness caught Van off gaurd. What right did he have asking those sort of questions anyway? It was none of Allens business, and yet the knight acted like it was. The blondes voice was monotone, and had it not been for the glimmer in his eye, Van could have sworn Allen was mocking him. "You know, Allen. I vowed to protect her. How can I protect her if she doesn't wake up? I know, it sounds foolish- call me crazy. I barely know her. I barely know you. I don't know what I've got myself mixed up into. But, I know something for sure. I know that if anyone, especially Dilandau, lays another finger on her in a way I don't like or she doesn't like- I'll personally chop off their genitalia."
"You didn't answer my question." Allen spoke, softly and unfazed by Vans burst of emotion. He turned his back to the young warrior, and started to proceed down the hall. "You know, Van. I wouldn't want to be your enemy. I'm quite fond of my genitalia. But anyways, Van- she can't return your love unless she knows. Are you willing to take that risk? To give your heart to a girl you barely know? Are you willing to risk the wrath of Zaibach for a girl with green eyes and brown hair? Are you going to take that leap of faith and tell her what your heart knows? Because I, Allen Shezar, will if you do not."
"Allen," Van began, a sneer across his face, "if you dare even look at her in a manner that is less than gentlemanish, you'll regret it."
"I highly doubt that."
"Shows what you know." Van muttered, as Allen left. The nerve, Van thought bitterly. He returned to his position by her bed. He watched her, with keen eyes. He watched the way her chest slowly moved to match her breathing. The way her hair layed, tossled and unbrushed around her. She looked like an angel, sleeping and innocent. But that's what she was, right? Innocence in its purest form. And, Van supposed, that's what drew him to her. Her laugh, her carefree ways, the way she didn't know pain and hurt and sorrow. She was opposite of him. His life was nothing but death and killing. He lived to kill, afterall. But this girl- with green eyes- could change that. Maybe. He was, in fact, willing to give it all up to protect her. She would never have to know of the hurt, the pain, the burdens. He would protect her innocence. It'd put his soul at ease to know what she didn't.
And for once, he was happy with his life. He would happily kill for her, just to protect her innocence. He knew that with every person he had killed, she didn't have to. She would never have those sins on her heart. It was his nirvana, his way out. She was his way out of all of that guilt.
With such swiftness, he took up her hand, and placed her fingers on his lips, and kissed the upperpart. He placed her hand where he kissed against her cheek. She smiled, and he was shocked. Was she awake? No, she was not. His eyes became soft, and he closed them.
"Sleep well, Hitomi. I'll always be here. I'll be here when you wake up." He said, and sat back in the stool, watching her sleep. He crossed his arms and smiled. "Sleep well."
Outside of the room, Allen leaned against the wall. He smiled. So he might have to push Van towards her, eh? This might be fun.
[Scene III]
"They have a woman in there, you know." He clicked his tounge and frowned. Against the shadowed steel wall, Folken moved. His movements were silent and descrete. Dilandau watched him through red eyes. To him, Folken reminded him of a large cat, perhaps a panther. His body hidden beneath the black cloak, and his eyes always full of wonder and a sense of knowing. Like he knew when something was going to happen before it happened, or already happened, or what was happening. He seemed to know the past, the present, and the future. Dilandau knew that he was smart, and agile. He had to be. Dilandau also knew not to cross a line with him.
"Oh?" It was more of a question than a reply, and in a disinterested manner. Dilandau scowled and glowered. He hated it when people thought they were smarter than him. It bothered him, and it hurt his ego. Folken seemed to be calculating one move to the next. The strategos seemed disinterested in Dilandaus attempt to get a rouse of him. He decided to play the 'Van' card.
"Oh yes, " Dilandau continued, in a voice full of sheer delight, "and so was a boy named Van. (that seemed to spark an interest) I think it was his woman whom I kissed. She tasted sweet, and I think I'd like her around. She seems like she'd be a good fu-"
"Go back, Dilandau." Folken cut him off, knowing that Dilandau would go off on a tangent about screwing. "Boy named Van? Explain. Elaborate."
"Oh sure, now you want to know-" Dilandau was inwardly giggling. He knew that would get Folkens' attention. Dilandau, was the king of gossip on board of the Vione. Everyone knew it. Folkens' patience was wearing thin. If Dilandau knew something, Folken would have to pry that information out of him. But it seemed, the blue-haired man knew that the red-eyed boy would spill what he knew. It was a sure thing, just like you knew the sun would come out after rain. Dilandau loved to share what he knew, and in the most giddy of ways.
"Dilandau," Folken sputtered, lips pursed. " I'm not in the mood for your games. Tell me what you know. You do realise that Van Fanel is the king of Fanalia, right? If this is the same Van.."
"Oh really?" Dilandau seemed to mentally jot that down. He crossed his arms, closed his eyes, and leaned against the railing. Below him, the world silently sat. The Vione was hovered above plains on the other side of a mountain that separated them and Allen Shezars fort. A forest sat convieniently adjacent to the mountain, the passage between them. Dilandau mused, and continued, "He was a hot-headed type of pissant. Black hair, tanned skin, brownish eyes. His face always seemed to be in a scowl...He was very unpleasent to look at."
"That definately sounds like the king of Fanalia." Folken contemplated. He looked at Dilandau, who had a coy smile played on his lips. And as he watched Dilandau, Folken saw Dilandaus gloved hands move to his lips- his eyes still closed. Than, abruptly, Folken continued, "Tell me of the girl."
This pleased Dilandau, Folken discovered. His eyes shot open, the pink become larger and paler than he had remembered. Of course, Dilandau was the one to memorize details, not him. He was better for the main picture. Dilandau gripped the railings, and started to sway back and forth. He laughed and began, "She was gorgeous, to say the least. Brown hair- but a golden brown that shimmered in the candlelight. And such green, large eyes. They were greener than the grass in the middle of spring... And her lips were soft, oh yes. (Dilandau licked his lips and Folken was sure he was thinking perverted things, as Dilandau does) She was dressed oddly, however. Clothes that I have never seen before. She...she was interesting. She talked to me in a manner none have yet dared too. It was amusing."
"I see." Folken commented. Odd clothing, the strategos smiled and thought- Lord Dornkirk would surely wish to hear of such matters. He planned to tell him later, when Dilandau wasn't busy lecturing him on this-and-that. Inwardly, he did admit to himself that Dilandau had his purposes.
"So the King of Dragons is in the fort? He was right in my grasp... To imagine. And I pissed him off. Lovely," the pyro giggled. "I wanted to kiss her. I didn't do it just to piss them off, that was just a perk. Something drew me to her, even if she didn't feel the same. Something was different about her. She had spirit. She wasn't like anyone I have ever met. I have to see her again."
"First we capture the dragon, Dilandau. You know not to disobey orders. Besides, Lord Dornkirk might want her for something," the wiser one scolded. Dilandau laughed, and stood up straight- running a hand through his silver locks.
"I know, I know." Dilandau turned and started to head the opposite way Folken was heading. His boots clicked loudly against the steel, and the metallic tinker echoed throughout the hall.
"Where are you going?" Folken asked. He heard Dilandau laugh again, and he narrowed his eyes. "Don't get yourself in trouble."
"Don't have a spaz, Strategos. I just need some fresh air." Dilandau called, dissapearing into the darkness. He heard Folken sigh and continue down the hall towards that strange room where he was able to talk to their Lord. The boy general headed towards a different door, and opened it. Before him, a balcony appeared. A rather large and empty balcony, mind you. He walked over to the opened ledge, where he could see the sky and the land. A soft wind blew through the area, and he leaned against the bars. He closed his eyes, enjoying the fresh air and the smell of the world. Suddenly, he saw her eyes. He let her name escape his lips, "Hitomi."
Yes, she was different and that attracted him. She held the aura of something unknown, unattainable. It gave him a rush, such the fleeting feeling of fear, when he leaned into her, kissing her. She had stiffened beneath him, his weight probably to much for her. He had crushed his lips against her, pried her mouth open- and she had done nothing. Maybe she had enjoyed it, like he did. His thoughts wandered on to Van.
That stupid boy. Peon. Pissant. Bastard. Hero... Dilandau shuddered. He knew instinctavely that he would not like Van. After all, Van is what seperated and destroyed their kiss. All because he was jealous- Dilandau was sure of it that Van was jealous of him. And why should he not be? He was Dilandau Albatou, leader of the dragon slayers. Elite class, general at age of 13. Gorgeous looks, if Dilandau did say so himself. Whisps of silvery-white hair, blood-red eyes, and quite a handsome face. Not an extremely pointy chin, like Allen Shezar, and not to much of a rounded one, like Van. A slender nose, and thin lips. He had muscles, oh yes, because he was able to pick up a good 130 pounds and throw it 10 feet. He had broad shoulders, good for holding women (or so Dilandau claimed). He didn't look scrawny like Van, or awkward like Allen either.
Hitomi was lucky that he chose to kiss her. Most females would love to be in her position. So why didn't she? Why didn't she want to kiss him back? Maybe it was because of that cursed love. Did she love Van? Dilandaus' throat stiffened, and a lumped formed. He silently scolded himself, 'Of course she doesn't love Van. You will get her, all in good time, Dilandau.' But Dilandau was impatient.
The sun started to set a good while back, and now the night sky took over. It must've been at least 9 o'clock, as the stars were bright and illuminous. The sky was blanketed with them, and the moonlight bathed Dilandau and the rest of the world.
What was she doing now? She seemed like a good little girl- probably sleeping. Hopefully not in Vans' arms, or under Vans' eyes. Dilandau tightened his grip on the railing. He felt his hate for Van swell. It throbbed in his chest. To soothe his thoughts, Dilandau thought of Hitomi. His grip loosened, and soon he found himself on the ground, and nothing fazed him. His thoughts were of her.
Was he in love? Did love feel like this? Is this what if felt like to be in love? Nothing seemed to touch him, and she lingered on his thoughts well past midnight. He finally decided it was time for bed. He could dream of her tonight. That would be his nirvana, his sublime. Her. She would flee to him before he was done. She would call out his name, and hold onto him for protection....
And tomorrow he would capture Van, and claim her as his own. Dilandau Albatou smiled. Who knew a monster could feel love so deep?
[Scene IV]
"Hitomi are you going to sleep all day?" She heard someone call. A feminine voice. Slowly opening her eyes, the sun blinded her. Without thought, her hand flew to cover her eyes from the blinding light. The voice continued, "I leave you alone to sunbathe for two minutes, and look! You fall asleep. How lazy."
"I wasn't sunbathing." She replied. Wait, what was she doing? She was, oh she couldn't remember. But it wasn't sunbathing. She was walking, yes she remembered. She furrowed her brows and thought harder. Before she was walking, there was nothing. The brunnette sighed, and sat up, rubbing her eyes. "I was...I was.."
"Sunbathing, like I said." The voiced laughed, and Hitomi felt a presence sit down next to her. Her eyes were still sore, and not adjusted to the light at all. Her head pounded, and her feet ached. How long was she walking? She could see faces surfacing, but before they could, the voice continued, "You do look really cute in that, Hitomi. Those sandles are adorable. This summer is going pretty well, ne?"
"Yukari?" Hitomi murmered, opening her eyes. And next to her, with bright brown eyes and dark brown hair, (pulled back into two braids), was Yukari. She was wearing a yellow sundress, with sunflowers all over it. It was short, and Hitomi noticed the lack of shoes. Where was she? On the beach? She was sitting on a blanket, and slowly moving, it felt like she WAS on sand. And in the background, other voices started to come into play. There was laughing, the sound of the waves crashing, seagulls cooing overhead, flies buzzing, and every other sound of the beach. "Why are we at the beach?"
"Uh, yeah? Who else would it be?" Yukari giggled. "Geez Hitomi, did the sun fry your brain or what? Don't you remember? Hello! Earth to Hitomi, haha okay.. Anyways, last saturday after Amano left for England, you promised you would get your mind off of him. I suggested the beach, and you said sure! So I was like, okay then let's go, so here we are! How could you forget?"
"Sorry, I guess my mind was someplace else.." Hitomi muttered. She looked down at her feet, which had plain black sandles on them. She wore a white dress, short and spaghetti strap. Funny, Hitomi thought, I don't remember owning this...or putting it on...or wearing this the last time.. She felt sore. And hot. "Let's head to the boardwalk. I'm hungry, and hot."
"Let's get some ice cream!" Yukari suggested. The duo stood, and started to head towards the peir, where stands upon stands of different shops stood. It was crowded, and the two slowly made their way through the crowd. Hitomi let her mind wander, as Yukari led her through the crowd. Amano left? She questioned, I didn't get to tell him...I don't remember what's happened since Saturday. Wait, what day is it? Who are these people that keep running into me and giving me odd looks? I don't remember...
A white van rolled by, with a logo of "Allen's Wines; Deep, rich, and oh-so-sweet". Hitomi watched it head towards a building, that looked different from the rest.. Van? Allen..Wine... They all seemed linked, Hitomi thought. Of course they do! They're all dealing with that business, she scolded herself. So why did it feel familiar? And why did she feel drawn to that building?
"Hitomi? HEY HITOMI!" Yukaris voice peirced her thoughts. She turned, and saw Yukari tapping her foot impatiently. "Well what type do you want?"
"Oh, I guess strawberry, please." Hitomi ordered. She felt a blush rising on her cheeks as she looked at the boy working. He had a well-built chest, and such silver hair. He smiled softly at her as he handed her the cone. "Thanks.."
"He was hot!" Yukari commented smarmily as they walked away from the counter, sauntering and arms looped together. Her icecream was dripping, but Yukari didn't seem to mind. The heat was nothing when the wind blew. Hitomi blushed deeper, and Yukari laughed. "Hey, let's eat over there..."
"Okay," Htiomi agreed, as they took a plastic table with an umbrella. They sat in its shade, and watched the surfers from a distance. Hitomi smiled as Yukari rated each of their tricks, and of course their falls. Her mind wandered, as her best friend babbled on.. But suddenly, a figure approached them. It was a male, and it appeared to have a surfboard tucked underneath his arm. He stopped, not five feet from where they were seated. She felt her heart rush, beating so fast. He was gorgeous...It was like de ja vu, looking at him. His black hair was soaked, clinging to his tanning face. He had such rich eyes, and a soft smile.
It clicked, and Hitomi dropped her ice cream.
"Van."
A/n: All will be explained next chapter. It's like getting all twilight zone on ya. HAHA! Review.