Disclaimer: RahXephon and its characters are the property of their respective owners. This piece is not for profitable purposes.

Chapter 4: Aspirations

"Sister, I'm sorry it's been a while since I came to visit you last. I was thinking as I came here with Otou-san, it's been a matter of years since you and I arrived. It seems like it's been forever and, at the same time, only a day. It sounds strange to say that, but it's true. I wish that we could have spent this time together, more that we've been able to. My life goes on, but you – even your body seems to be trapped in time. As I grow older, I worry more that you and I will not be able to tune the world together, as we wanted – as you promised. But, I swear to you, Sister, even if I do it alone, I'll make a place where you and I can be free, and together forever."

As usual, not hearing a response, I look at her face before taking hold of one of her hands.

"Do you remember, Sister, when I lived here with you? I liked reading to you, Sister, we shared so many stories. I spoke with you every day, thinking, maybe today will be the day when Sister will answer."

I fall silent for a moment before continuing, "I've spent time with people my age, Sister; I've spoken with you a lot about it. It was scary at first, going to the place they called school, filled to the brim with children and activity. I was so nervous, I hardly spoke the first day – and the children in the class ignored me."

I find myself tightening my grip on her hand slightly.

"There was a period of adjustment, but I found some others who were kind to me. I'm sure they thought I was a little odd, not understanding all the nuances of their culture and society, but they've allowed me in. When you wake up, Sister, I'll introduce you to them."

I laugh quietly before I say, "But, I'd probably have to be the one called Nee-san."

I loosen my grip and say, "There's someone else I'd like to introduce you to, Sister. I've talked with you about him, too, the man who rescued us when we first came here, Rikudoh Shougo. When I was here, he was my teacher, but now, we live together, I call him by the Japanese word for Father. I've always wished that the three of us could live together, don't you think that would be nice, Sister?"
The silence returns, so I decide to speak again.

"I've learned a lot about this world, Sister, and about our roles as Instrumentalists. I haven't seen my Xephon yet, but I know where it is. At 17, when I am recognized as an Ollin by Ixtli, I will attain the heart of Yortewotor and create RahXephon."

I hear the chime of a clock from a different room and look at my watch. Otou-san said that the visit had to be short because of chores that needed to be done, so I reluctantly remove my hand from hers and stand.

I turn and walk towards the door. I stop in the doorframe and look back at her as I say, "I promise I'll be back soon, Sister."

I turn once more and walk out the door.

"Happy 17th Birthday, Maya."

I smile as I answer, "Thank you, Otou-san."

I open the card and gifts that he has given to me, but I am distracted by one thought, this is the year, the year that I will be recognized as an Instrumentalist. I am filled with excitement and anticipation, but also anxiety – as I will be tuning the world alone. But, I remember the promise that I made to Sister, and intend to keep it.

As we clean up after I finish opening my gifts, I look to Otou-san with a serious expression and say, "Otou-san, what will Ixtli look like?"

"Ixtli will take the human form of the one you wish to see most from deepest within your heart."

The one I wish to see most – who will that be for me? Sister, Otou-san?

He smiles and says, "You'll know it as soon as Ixtli appears before you."

Encouraged, I say, "I'm sure you're right, Otou-san."

With each passing day, I arise, believing that Ixtli will appear before me. I watch the people in the crowds and in the frays, but do not sense any of them as being Ixtli. When it is half way to my next birthday, I begin to grow nervous, what is the reason for Ixtli's delay? Otou-san tries to reassure me, but I am only partially convinced by his words.

I lie in bed, not wanting to accept that a new day has dawned - my 18th birthday. The impossible has happened, Ixtli never appeared, and so I was not recognized as an Ollin. Over and over I think, how could this be? Sister said that we were chosen, everyone said that it was my destiny. What have I done wrong?

"Maya."

I hear Otou-san calling but ignore him, as if not answering will prevent this from being real. I sense him entering the room.

"Happy birthday, Maya."

I remain motionless.

"I know that this is a difficult day for you, Maya."

I decide to respond and say, "I'm a failure, Otou-san, Ixtli – rejected me."

"Maybe, Maya, what you thought was to be your destiny is not, and the future presents a different role to you."

A different role, what else is there?

"Quon still has not reached the age of 17, and may not for quite some time."

He pauses for a moment before continuing, "Possibly you are to help her in another way. With your knowledge and understanding, you could lead Quon along the right path…"

Of course, "A conductor for the instrumentalist…"