Shadows Of The Past
Chapter 3
Secrets of a forgotten age
Disclaimer – Escaflowne is not mine, the characters and story are the property of Bandai entertainment. The story and characters of 'The Descend Shadow' or 'Shadows of the Past' are the property of Butchs Fan Fiction Forum.co.uk. Before use of these characters or elements of the story please get permission from Butch Cassidy at butchsvideostop@Tiscali.co.uk
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...
"Hitomi, I can't apologize enough for what Merle pulled earlier" Von told her, "I will have a talk to her, and I will have a new door fitted by nightfall. You do understand Dawn was just trying to protect you, don't you?"
"I know Von; I could see he was just trying to protect me. I can't tell you how grateful I am, if it wasn't for you two I would have been forced into that horrid dress" Hitomi told him with a shudder, "But it is great to get away from it all, after the shock Merle gave me this morning" With a laugh, Hitomi got to her feet.
"I could feel how afraid you were Hitomi and I was scared that I may have lost you again. Since you have been here I have felt as if I have walked into a dream, a dream I feared would be shattered" Von told her, a quiver of fear in his voice. Feeling his pain Hitomi comforted him, with a touch on his shoulder
"No matter what happens I will always be with you" Hitomi said, lowering her head onto his shoulder. Feeling the warmth of her touch Von put his arms around her and held her close.
"Hitomi I will always be there to love and care for you" Hitomi felt her heart leap for joy as she sat on the smooth marble, wrapped warmly in Vons embrace. He had now closed his eyes as the shadow of a statue carved in the likeness of his mother fell over them. Her wings outspread, shimmering in the light, a remembrance not only of Von's mother but of his Atlantean heritage and his promise to protect his country and its people always.
"Von" Hitomi asked.
"Hmm" Von answered.
"There's something that I have been curious about" Hitomi asked.
"Oh, and what would that be" Von replied opening his eyes again.
"Well, I've been wondering about Dawn" Hitomi answered.
"What do you mean" Von asked.
"Well I was just wondering how you know him." Hitomi asked now looking straight into his eyes.
"I guess I'll start from the beginning then shall I" Von asked Hitomi.
"Are you sure you don't mind" Hitomi answered as she now wasn't very sure if she had done the right thing asking. Von gave a slight nod in acknowledgement.
"Okay then, Hitomi do you remember Balgus" Von asked.
"Yes, how could I ever forget after what he did for us".
"Well not long after you went back to the mystic moon. I decided that the best way to honour his memory was to give him a hero's burial. I had word sent out all over Gaia that the burial was taking place. So in the lead up to the burial, people from all over Gaia began to come in order to honour Balgus' memory. I was surprised at the amount of people who came to the burial as I knew that Balgus was a friend to many. What I didn't realise however was just how many friends he had.
Anyway when the burial ceremony was over and most people were starting to leave a lone figure remained. He came up to me and asked if I would need a bodyguard. I was unsure at first but then I asked him why he thought I would need a bodyguard. He then told me of how Balgus had been a close friend of both his and his parents and that as he was growing up Balgus had done a lot to help him and that he wanted to honour Balgus' memory by becoming my bodyguard. The person he died protecting" Von explained.
"So needless to say I agreed and little did I know then of how wise a decision I had actually made. He would become one of my most loyal and trusted companions. Of course it took Merle a while to fully trust Dawn herself as she was naturally distrustful but as she got to know him better this faded. This then meant that out of all my friends and advisors, Dawn and Merle were really the only people that I could confide in" Von said. Hitomi suddenly felt a greater appreciation for this man who had been such a true friend to Von while she was away.
"It seems like I really do have a lot of things to thank Dawn for" Hitomi said jokingly and started to laugh although she did mean what she had said. Von knew this but still started to laugh slightly. Once they stopped laughing Hitomi asked curiously.
"Okay, so you've told me now how you met Dawn but come on please tell me why Dawn is so silent all the time"
"Well as my bodyguard Dawn has to remain in the shadows mostly and make sure that there are no threats to my safety. Now both Dawn and I know that I am fully capable of protecting myself but there are some instances when it is good that he is there watching my back. Sometimes when I am unable to see everything that is going on around me and Dawn has been there watching everything and checking for any sign of danger" Von said.
"What do you mean" Hitomi asked curiously sitting watching his expression.
"Well how about we get up and stretch our legs I'll tell you all about it. Okay" Von suggested now looking at Hitomi.
"Okay then" Hitomi answered.
They got to their feet, Von placed his arm around Hitomi again as they started to walk around the gardens looking at the many hedges, trees and flowers with their many scents and colours. Von continued to tell Hitomi about Dawn.
"So anyway there was this one occasion where I was invited to a banquet that Chid was holding. I was talking to Chid when out of nowhere these masked assailants began to abseil down from the roof". A look of concern spread over Hitomi's face.
"It's okay Hitomi just wait to you hear the rest of the story. So anyway these masked assailants began to abseil down from the roof. Seeing the assailants all the men present including the Freidan Royal Guards drew their swords ready for battle. However, it turned out that we really had no need" Von explained as Hitomi's look of shock and fear turning to one of surprise and curiosity.
"What do you mean?" Hitomi asked.
"Well as we soon found out whenever the assailants landed and we walked over to investigate. We found that they were all dead, as they had been shot numerous times with multiple arrows before we had even realised that they were there. Dawn then came forward and explained that while we had all been sitting enjoying the banquet. He had noticed them coming down from the roof and had shot them all dead using his bow before they had the chance to cause any serious damage" Von answered.
"Yes whenever I first met Dawn I thought that I could see a bow and a quiver full of arrows on his back. Although I wasn't sure as I didn't think that bows and arrows were still used on Gaia" Hitomi said.
"Well you're right in what you are saying Hitomi as we gave up the old methods of fighting a long time ago in favour of other methods. Dawn however still practises the old ways, such as archery and fighting with a long-sword instead of a curved sword the way that I have been taught. That is why are fighting styles are so different, as I am now skilled at using a curved blade whereas Dawn is skilled in both archery and in wielding a long-sword" Von told Hitomi as they walked further and further through the royal gardens.
"Von" Hitomi said.
"Yes" Von answered.
"Merle told me yesterday that the only time that you and Dawn get to talk is when you are sparring" Hitomi asked curiously.
"Well Merle is right to an extent" Von answered.
"What do you mean" Hitomi asked.
"It is one of the times whenever we get to talk properly but it is not the only time. As myself and Dawn regularly talk except of course whenever there are meetings to attend or I am attending to guests".
"I have another question, if you don't mind about Dawn" Hitomi said.
"With all these questions about Dawn I think I may have a rival for your affections" Von said jokingly.
Hitomi blushed slightly but not before replying defensively "Von, you know that you're the one that I love". They then walked on through the gardens in silence, Hitomi felt scared that maybe Von didn't feel quite the same way about her or maybe he had taken her questions about Dawn the wrong way. However it was not long before the silence was broken when Von stopped and whispering into Hitomi's ear said.
"I love you more than words could ever express and I will always be there for you, so you don't have to worry anymore" as he finished speaking he kissed Hitomi on the cheek. Hitomi could feel herself blushing even more as well as feeling as if she was now walking ten feet taller. Von then felt Hitomi's hand slipping into his as they walked and together they continued to walk hand in hand around the garden.
All who saw the young king in the gardens was happy to see him happy again, after all the pain and hardship that he had endured in his young life. So it was that Hitomi and Von continued to walk around the expansive gardens with their many flowers, trees and sculptures of various shapes and sizes each depicting something different but all as beautiful and detailed as one another.
Von then stopped by a large tree its branches twisting and turning in all directions with its leaves sparkling in the morning sunlight. He led Hitomi behind the tree. Hitomi saw a small arch leading through an expansive hedge, light poured through illuminating the grass and flowers.
"Come with me" Von asked leading Hitomi through the arch, it lead out onto a small green plain, a sheer drop at the end. But it was what lay before Hitomi that almost took her breath away as it was the entire view of the city that lay before the castle. The people below going about their daily lives.
"Lets sit here for a while okay, Hitomi" Von asked. Hitomi smiled agreeing
"So what did you want to know about Dawn" Von asked.
"Why is he so mysterious?" Hitomi asked.
"Yeah, I suppose he is kind of mysterious but I don't really know that much about Dawn's past" Von replied.
"You don't?" Hitomi asked.
"Well at the start neither myself nor Dawn would tell the other very much. But as we became friends we began to trust one another more and more. We also started to talk more and open up to one another more. At the start Dawn wouldn't tell either Merle or myself very much but as time went on he started to open up more and more. Even though, I still know very little about his time before he came to Fanelia" Von said.
Then as they sat there on the hill looking out over the city and the people below, Hitomi could feel the sun warming her face and body. Von then lay back on the grass staring up at the sky listening to the peace and quiet that surrounded him, looking over he saw that Hitomi was also lying on her back staring up at the sky.
"Von, what's going to happen now" Hitomi asked turning her head to look over at Von.
Von turned looking into her eyes,
"I don't know what's going to happen. We have the meeting tonight… It shall decide all but don't worry about it now. Let's just enjoy the peace of the morning"
Moving closer he placed his arm around her. Hitomi in turn placed her head on Von's chest and together they lay there the peace of the morning and the pleasure of just being together.
…
Dawn tired from his early morning workout decided to go for a rest. As Dawn entered the room and then closed the door again he unclipped his cloak, placing his brooch on a small table near the window. He folded up the cloak and placed it on a wooden chair that was near his bed. His bedroom was large, spacious with high roof beams that had the symbol of the dragon engraved into them and at the end of the room below the bed there was a large arch where two windows were positioned. Over in the bottom corner of the room lay Dawn's bow and his quiver full of finally fletched green arrows. Dawn unclipped his belt with his sword sheath attached and placed it in the corner besides his bow and quiver. Taking his dagger out of its sheath he placed it beside his brooch on the small table near the windows and took his sword from its sheath and placed it carefully at the side of the small table joining his dagger and brooch. Then taking off his soft leather boots and placing them underneath the chair where his cloak now lay he laid down on top of the bed and found himself drifting into sleep while he looked up at the ceiling with its finely carved solid rafters.
When Dawn awoke he found that he was lying on top of a completely different bed in a room that was strange in appearance to him. He slowly got off the bed and felt the cold smooth stones beneath his feet and then walking to the end of the room he looked out of the windows and saw a large city in the distance with what appeared to be a forest running around the perimeter of the city. At first he thought he was looking at Fanelia but whenever he looked closer he could see that this was not the case as this city was close to some sort of river or lake. Dawn then began to make his way to the door and when he opened it and stepped out he found that he was now standing in a long corridor. It had a roof that was covered in many different drawings and designs but for some reason he was unable to make out what they were showing.
He then began to walk down the corridor and as he did he saw that were many windows through which large rays of light streamed through. When Dawn came to the end he turned a corner to the right and found that he was now standing in a large wide-open space. As Dawn walked around he could see that this room as well had designs and drawings that ran along the ceiling and in this room also there were several windows, which lay at the top of the back wall. There were also pillars that ran from the door that Dawn had just come through right up to the back wall and he also noticed that this was the same case for the right side of the room. The pillars were all finely carved with patterns and designs that went all the way around them. Dawn then began to walk up to the top of the room and saw that in the middle there was a tall arch with no door that led out to a large courtyard filled with many different trees that were all in full bloom.
He also noticed that on either side of the door there were three arches that were made of the same white stone as the rest of the room and they also had no windows in the same way that the tall arch had no door. Dawn thought to himself that they were most likely carved out of the very wall itself. As he explored the room further he was amazed at its sheer size and at how beautiful it was with its many designs and patterns all over. It was then as he came near the bottom of the room that he noticed that the light from the high windows was actually streaming down on to the back of two high backed chairs. When Dawn came to the chairs he saw that they were beautifully carved in a fine wood possibly oak with high backs and long arm rests on each chair and as well as this it seemed that the chairs had been carved to a specific design or theme although he could not quite place it.
It was as he was looking over the chairs trying to place their theme, which seemed to constantly elude him that he became aware of someone standing at the doorway to the right of him. Whenever he looked over he saw that standing in the doorway was a man who was tall in stature but young of face. He only looked to be in his mid to late twenties and wore a long green cloak and had thick brown hair and was girt with a long sword that hung at his left side.
"Father" Dawn said astonished as at the mention of this the man gave a small smile and began to walk away. Immediately Dawn ran through the doorway as well and began to chase after his father. He then found himself running through a darkened corridor trying to catch up with his father until all of a sudden he found himself running into blinding light. Suddenly he tripped and fell into the blinding light and found that not far away another figure was lying motionless on the ground. Crawling over to where the figure lay he turned him over and found that it was his father staring back at him through lifeless eyes.
"No, Father Please Wake Up, Father No Don't Leave Me Again" Dawn said his eyes burning with tears.
"No!" Dawn shouted as he beat his fists against the hard solid stone.
"Father!" Dawn screamed as he awoke suddenly his face covered in sweat as he quickly looked around the room and realised that he was awake again and back in his bedroom in Fanel. After he had wiped the sweat from his face using a small face towel he laid his head back into the comfort of the soft pillows and found himself remembering old memories of his parents. His mother so fair and beautiful with her long red hair shining in the light of the sun and his father so tall and strong. Dawn remembered their small home on the edge of the woods. His mother sitting in a small wooden chair at the doorway of they're home smiling as she watched his father teaching Dawn how to hold a sword and then how to fight with it. Dawn thought to himself of how dearly he missed them and what he would give just to be able to sit and talk with them once more.
He lifted himself up from the bed and Dawn looked over at the windows, seeing that the sun was still shining brightly he decided to go for a walk into town and get something to eat, he didn't feel hungry for palace food. So putting his soft leather boots on once more and lacing them up he made his way over to the corner of the room where he had left his belt with its few utility pouches and sheathes for both his sword and his dagger. Lifting the belt up he placed it around his waist and clipped the buckle shut and then lifting his sword from its resting place at the side of the small table he placed it back in its sheath which now hung at his left side. Then from the small table again he lifted his dagger and slipped it back into its sheath, which hung, directly on his belt but at his right side. The dagger made a slight click as Dawn slid it back into its sheath and then lifting his cloak from the chair that stood near his bed and placing it over his back and shoulders he lifted the small rounded brooch that still lay on the table near the window and clipped it into place on his cloak.
Dawn then opened the door to his small room and made his way through the many corridors of the castle with their many entrances to various parts of the castle sometimes passing an advisor of Von's or some other person who worked in the castle. Until finally he came to the castle courtyard and started walking down when he noticed that one of the stable hands was running up to the castle who he soon recognised as Gercop one of the head stable hands. Dawn shouted to him asking him to wait and he began to walk over to where Gercop now stood waiting for him.
"Good morning Dawn" The stable hand said.
"Good morning Gercop. I was wondering about my horse if he has been tended to like I asked" Dawn replied.
"Now Dawn you should know better than to ask questions like that. Of course he has been tended to and fed as well" Gercop answered.
"I apologise but it's just that I am going into town and I wanted to make sure that he had been seen to" Dawn answered.
"No its okay but I am afraid I can't stay as I have to get back to the castle" Gercop said.
"Okay, thanks Gercop" Dawn replied.
Dawn walked back down through the courtyard leaving Gercop to make his way back up to the castle. It did not take Dawn long to reach enter the city. From amount of people who seemed to be town Dawn guessed a large market was being held today.
So slowly Dawn began to make his way through the large crowd and was even approached a few times by traders trying to peddle their goods. Dawn however just politely replied that he was just passing through and wasn't interested in buying anything. This was not entirely untrue as after seeing the amount of people who were in town today he gave up on any thoughts of looking around and instead decided to just go straight to somewhere he could get something to eat. Dawn decided that the best place to go was a little inn near the centre of town that he was fond of as they served good meals and had even better music. Once Dawn reached the centre of town he went down a little side alley that some shops running along the right side of the lane whereas the rest apart from the inn of course were all houses.
As Dawn opened the door he felt the heat of a warm fire and the throb of people talking and enjoying themselves as he entered the room. At the top of the room there was a large fireplace that had a small fire burning, its flames flickering and dancing in the heat. Dawn made his way over to the bar he looked around and saw that fortunately there wasn't two many people in as they must all be out at the market. As Dawn was ordering his meal he noticed a familiar face standing at the end of the bar.
"Hello Gaddes" Dawn greeted him.
"Oh, Hello Dawn are you trying to escape all the crowds as well" Gaddes asked.
"Well you could say that. Do you want to get a table" Dawn replied.
"Sure" Gaddes said. So after Dawn had made his order the two made their way over to a table at the back wall where they could talk in peace without any interruptions. The two sat for a while talking about what was new with each of them. Changing the subject they began to talk about some of their previous adventures and laughing about funny things that had either happened to them or funny things that they had witnessed happening to friends or colleagues. Whenever they were in the middle of their conversation Dawn's meal was brought over to him, which he thanked the bar maid for and then he proceeded to order two more drinks, a juice for himself and an ale for Gaddes. Dawn asked Gaddes once more was he sure that he didn't want anything and Gaddes thanking him for the offer said that he had already eaten and wasn't hungry.
So it was that the two men continued to talk among themselves in the corner where they were sitting. Their conversation inevitably turned towards the events of the past few days. Concerning the return of Hitomi and all the events that had taken place afterwards such as Dawn's early morning fight with Von.
"So you took a shot at Von did you?" Gaddes asked tauntingly.
"Why. Do you think that I can't hold my own against Von?" Dawn retorted.
"Oh! Well from what I heard about yesterday, it sounded like you were losing pretty badly" Gaddes shot back accusingly.
"All that ale must be going to your head Gaddes as I was winning that duel" Dawn said laughing.
"Well is that so, well I am afraid that's not what I was told by Alan and a few of the other guys who were watching" Gaddes said.
"Oh really, well if it hadn't of been for Alan interrupting our battle, everyone there would have seen me come out the winner" Dawn replied.
"Yeah right but why did you choose to fight with Von this morning" Gaddes asked.
"That's simple Gaddes. I wanted a rematch, where Alan couldn't interrupt us and I could test his skills against an unknown enemy at the same time" Dawn answered.
"Don't you thinking you might be getting a bit of big head there Dawn" Gaddes replied.
"That's funny, that's almost the same thing that Von said this morning when he found out that it was me" Dawn said.
"So I guess that Von won then" Gaddes said before he started to look at the look of fake shock on Dawn's face.
"That hurts Gaddes that really hurts. No actually it was a draw… Again." Dawn answered.
"Yeah unfortunately, although I have to admit that does make things slightly more interesting" Gaddes replied.
"Oh is that right" Dawn asked curiously.
"Yes it does. It makes the guys betting stakes a lot better," Gaddes said and with that both men burst out laughing.
"Hey Dawn" Gaddes asked while wiping the tears from his eyes.
"Yeah" Dawn answered while wiping the tears from his eyes.
"What do you think about this whole elixir of atlantis thing" Gaddes asked almost whispering.
"Well I believe that it is real but it is just finding the damn thing that is going to be the problem" Dawn answered just as the sound of the inn door opening and closing again caught his attention. Turning around he saw a man walk up to the bar, he had thick grey hair and a short grey beard and he looked as if he was in his mid fifty's to early sixty's. Turning around to face Gaddes again Dawn asked,
"Want another drink"
"Why, who's the old guy at the bar" Gaddes asked curious to see what Dawn wanted the old guy for.
"That old guy is as healthy and energetic as what you or I are and he is also the unofficial lore master of all Fanelia as he knows all the old myths, legends and secrets about Gaia" Dawn replied and at the mention of this Gaddes became more interested in hearing what Dawn had to say about this man.
"It also helps that he is an old friend of mine"
"You know Dawn I think I well have another drink" Gaddes answered as he rose up from his chair. Dawn joined him and made their way to the bar. With Dawn beside the old man with his face turned to the left so he could talk to the men while Gaddes stood with his back to the bar.
"Hello Sercole" Dawn said politely.
"Well hello Dawn. What can I do for you" Sercole answered.
"Sercole I was actually looking for some information and I was hoping that you could help me" Dawn asked.
"Well tell me what you need and if I can I'll do my best to help you out" Sercole replied.
"Thank you but do you mind if we talk in private" Dawn asked.
"That's okay but I just want to get a drink first" Sercole said and was just about to order his drink whenever Gaddes who had stood silently beside Dawn said,
"That's okay I'll get these while you and Dawn go back to our table. What would you like?"
"I'll have an ale, thanks" Sercole answered.
"Okay" and motioning to the bar maid who soon came over and asked was everyone okay.
"Yes thank you but could I have two ales and a juice please" Gaddes asked.
"Certainly sir, I'll bring them over to you now" the barmaid answered.
"Thank you" Gaddes replied after he paid her for their drinks and made his way back to the table in the corner where Sercole and Dawn now sat. When he got to the table he found that they were already deep in conversation.
"Sercole, I need information on the elixir of atlantis and I was wondering if you could help me" Dawn was asking.
"The elixir of Atlantis? I've heard of it but I don't really know anything about it, other than its momentous healing properties" Sercole replied.
"You must know something about it, please anything you can tell me will be helpful" Dawn asked.
"I am sorry Dawn but I am afraid that I really don't know very much about it.", he told Dawn, "But there is a man in Cesario. A friend of mine who may know about it. He knows a lot about Atlantis. His name is Yakumo Kosime" Sercole replied.
"Thank you Sercole" Dawn answered.
"Think nothing of it, just one friend helping out another" Sercole replied. It was at that moment that the barmaid came over with their drinks.
"Here you go lads, two ales and a juice," she said.
"Thanks Sarah" Dawn said.
"No problem Dawn" Sarah answered as she made her way back to the bar.
"Sarah?" Gaddes said.
"Yeah that's her name, Sarah" Dawn replied.
"Answer me a question" Gaddes asked.
"What" Dawn answered.
"Is there anyone in Fanelia that you don't know, Dawn" Gaddes asked before giving a short laugh.
"Well I know the answer, so you'd better tell the man Dawn" Sercole said.
"Right then. The answer Gaddes is no. I know everyone in Fanelia" Dawn replied.
"Okay you have answered my first question but you have still got one more to answer" Gaddes said.
"Yes and what would that be" Dawn asked.
"How do you know the barmaid" Gaddes said curiously.
Dawn started to laugh and then said accusingly "Why are you jealous".
"No but I was just wondering how do you know a beautiful young woman like that" Gaddes said shooting an accusing glance at Dawn.
"Hey back off Gaddes, I know Sarah because she is a friend of mine I normally come to this inn" Dawn answered. Then shooting a Gaddes a glance that could have split a rock in half asked,
"Now are you satisfied Gaddes"
"Yes I am and I also apologise but you can't blame a man for being curious" Gaddes replied.
"Okay lets talk no more of it and we will call the matter settled, okay" Dawn said as both his expression and the tone in his voice lightened.
"That's good as I always hate to see two friends fighting especially after one of them has bought me a drink" Sercole said, all three men looked at each other and started laughing.
The three men sat and talked until it was starting to grow dark and more importantly they had finished their drinks. Then taking their leave from Sercole and thanking him for his help Dawn and Gaddes got up from their seats and made their way down to the bar. Dawn paid his bill,
"Thank you Sarah the meal was beautiful as always"
"Thank you Dawn as ever you remain one of my best and most pleasant customers" Sarah replied.
"I'd also like to thank you for the good ale as it was the best I have tasted in a long time" Gaddes said.
"Why thank you kind sir for your gracious words as it's not often that someone other than Dawn thanks me for either the food that I serve or the drinks that I pour" Sarah said and it seemed to Gaddes and to Dawn who was standing silently at the door that she was blushing slightly.
"Well thank you and goodbye" Gaddes said as he made his way towards the door.
"Goodbye and maybe we'll meet again someday" Sarah said as she gave a little smile at Gaddes who merely nodded his head in acknowledgement as he and Dawn made their way out the door closing it behind them again.
It was early evening when they left the inn and made their way back up through the now deserted streets of the town.
"Dawn" Gaddes said.
"Yeah" Dawn replied.
"Why is she working in a place like that? She appears bright." Gaddes asked curiously.
"Work there! She owns the inn. I have known her for a good few years now. Though I don't think it would be prudent for me to give you here life story, though I can tell you she's not married" Dawn told him, rising his eyebrow slightly.
"Shes not married, you say?" Gaddes asked even more curiously.
"That's what I'm saying" Dawn answered.
"Have you ever asked her out" Gaddes asked. Then stopping and turning towards Gaddes he said
"No I haven't. Don't get me wrong Sarah is beautiful and I do love her dearly but just not like that. I love Sarah as a friend and nothing more. Besides I'm not the one that she was looking at from behind the bar" Dawn answered. Gaddes looked at Dawn inquisitively and then the pair started to walk on to the edge of the city as Gaddes turned what Dawn had just said over in his head over and over again. As they came to the outer battlements of the castle and started to walk through them Dawn seeing that Gaddes was lost in thought said
"From the look on your face I would say that the feeling was mutual"
"Huh, what, well its just that in all my travels I have never seen a woman as beautiful as her" Gaddes replied.
"Are you serious or are you just thinking on how good the ale was" Dawn asked.
"No I mean it, I really have never saw a woman as beautiful as her before although I would rather just keep it between us" Gaddes replied.
"That's okay but I think that you should talk a bit more to her someday on your own. Hey you never know you might find that you both have something in common." Dawn said.
"You know I wish I could but I think it will have to wait as I think that the crew will be leaving tomorrow. Although I think I will see her before we leave" Gaddes answered.
"Well that's okay, I'll tell her first thing in the morning that your coming down to see her" Dawn said laughing as he started to run the rest of the way through the outer battlements as he came closer to the gate of the main castle.
"Don't you dare Kosime" Gaddes shouted to Dawn as he chased after him until eventually both men stopped at the main gate to the castle so as to get their breath back after the long run. Once they got their breath back they looked at one another and started laughing once more as they walked through the main gate and then up through the courtyard.
"We really are a pair of jokers" Gaddes said as they walked into the castle.
"Well you said it, not me" Dawn replied. As they made their way through the halls of the castle they met Alan who was walking down the far end and he smiled as he came closer.
"Have a good drink" Alan asked.
"Yes we did thanks Alan and I can tell you that we are the better for it" Dawn answered.
"So I see" Alan replied with a short laugh, "Come on the meetings is just about to begin. And we can't have an important meeting without the Kings bodyguard, now can we?"
...
The fire dully crackled and burned into the night as the group sat around the main table within Vons personal study, each discussing what their next course of action should be. The table itself was made from solid oak and had engraved in its legs winding symbols of the city of Fanel and of the history of Fanelia. Handcrafted by some of the finest craftsmen in all of Gaea and had been given to Von as a gift by Princess Milerna of Asturia as both a token of their friendship but also as a sign of peace and support between the two nations. Von thought it was fitting to have it in his study, a place where he could go and think or just sit and read by the light of the fireplace.
On some occasions when he was feeling down he would come and sit by the comfort of the open fire in the hearth thinking back to all the summers he had spent as a child with his older brother Folken and with the Princess Milerna, when her father came on royal business. Such thoughts though were far from his mind as they had more important matters to attend too. There was silence all around the room as everyone present waited for Von to officially open the meeting.
As Von sat silently in his chair at the top end of the table just below the small fireplace his sheathed sword strapped to the back of his chair. Hitomi sat in a chair at the top left of the table near to where Von sat. She watched the look on his face as he thought of how to begin. Merle was seated on the right hand side of the table with Gaddes sat beside her wondering what was coming next and Alan sat at the bottom of the table facing where Von now sat. Finally a lone figure sat at the end of the room in the shadows with his face only slightly illuminated by the glow of the small fire that he sat beside, his cloak now removed from his shoulders while his sword which now rested inside its sheath was propped against the legs of his chair while a quiver full of arrows which also held his bow was strapped to the chair. While the swords of both Alan and Gaddes like Von's were strapped to the back of their chairs.
"We are here to decide our next course of action, Now all afternoon I with the help of both Merle and Hitomi we have searched the Fanelian archives for any information about the elixir of Atlantis. We did find some information though regarding the elixir. Hitomi found something as she will now tell you herself" Von finished and then looking over at Hitomi gave her a little smile as if to reassure her. Grateful to Von for this look of encouragement, Hitomi nodded her head slightly in acknowledgment and said.
"Thank you Von. It was as I was searching though some old scrolls and some old books that I come across a series of passages that confirmed what the tablet says about first having to find the three objects and bringing them to the Mystic Valley". Everyone present listened closely to what Hitomi had to say as she told of what she had found in the passages of the book.
"The passages mentioned the three objects, The Tree Of Life, The Snake Of Health and The Sword of Victory, and that the quest to find them is not an easy one…" She told them
"Mystic objects always are, aren't they?" Gaddes said jokingly and everyone including Hitomi started to laugh. Then when they had all stopped laughing Gaddes said "I'm sorry Hitomi, please continue" as he wiped the tears from his eyes.
"It's okay Gaddes. So as I was saying it mentioned the difficulty before we even make it to the Mystic Valley, which as I remember wasn't fun in itself. It then mentioned that once the mystical valley is reached there are several trials, which are unique to each person who undertakes them and which must be completed. Before ……".
"Oh wonderful as if things weren't hard enough already!" Gaddes called out. There was a low whistle in the air and Gaddes sprang up out of his seat.
"WHOAH!" Looking at the seat where Gaddes had been sitting only a few seconds before Hitomi saw that embedded in the arm of the chair there was a silver tip attached to a long brown shaft that had finally fletched feathers that had been dyed green attached to it. Before Gaddes had a chance to say anything, Dawn stood up from his seat, bow in hand, arrow notched on to the now pulled back string and began to walk forwards.
"Now Gaddes, if you interrupt Hitomi once more with anything other than a sensible and releVont question. I will be forced to send another arrow your way and this time I won't let it miss". Dawn said. Then putting up his hands in defeat with an expression half of embarrassment and half of humour. Gaddes sat down and said.
"Okay, Okay, I won't interrupt again."
"You Promise!" Dawn replied.
"Yes, Yes, I promise, just put that thing away you psycho" Gaddes answered.
"Good" Dawn said as he lowered his bow and un notched his arrow.
"Here! I think this is yours" Gaddes said as he pulled out the arrow from the arm of his chair as he began to sit down again and handed it back to Dawn. Dawn smiled and returned to his chair.
While Dawn was taking care of Gaddes interruptions. Hitomi looked at Von who was trying to stifle a laugh and then seeing the look on Gaddes face, she tried to hold in her own laughter and keep her composure while both Merle and Alan laughed at the situation.
"M'lady, please, continue". Dawn told Hitomi. Once she had managed to fully resist the urge to start laughing, Hitomi began once more.
"Oh, yes, well, um, as I was saying once these trials have been completed. The three objects must be presented before the guardian of the elixir as proof before he will engage you in combat to see if you are worthy enough to be given the elixir".
"What, so we have ….." Gaddes suddenly stopped as he became painfully aware of the sound of a string being pulled back under high tension. Looking up he saw that which he feared, Dawn was now standing up with his bow aimed and ready to fire.
"This better be good Gaddes!" Dawn said.
"Oh, Never mind, it wasn't that important anyway" Gaddes replied. Once again Dawn lowered his bow and returned back to his seat.
"Is there anything else that you wanted to tell us M'lady" Dawn asked.
"No, I think that's really it, unless anyone has any questions" Hitomi replied.
Nobody spoke leaving the room in silence, other than the crackling of the fire.
"Alan?" Hitomi asked
"Yes Hitomi" Alan answered.
"Forgive me for asking this but how is Celena today" Hitomi asked cautiously.
"Don't worry Hitomi there is nothing to forgive and to answer your question she is fine. Thankfully that worm Dilandau hasn't tried anything so it's meant that she has been able to have some peace although unfortunately she can't be left alone without someone watching over her" Alan replied after seeing the look of caution and concern on Hitomi's face.
"Alan, we will find the elixir and cure Celena so that she may finally be at and also have peace" Von said.
"Thank you Von and thank you everyone for your support and continuing help. You have no idea how greatly it is appreciated" Alan replied.
Hitomi returned to her seat and Von asked,
"Now has anyone else found anything out concerning the elixir and its resting place"
"Well I have something if I can get it out without fear of being shot by my good friend Dawn up there" Gaddes said.
Laughing Von replied "What is it Gaddes, please tell us".
"Well it's really Dawn who found this information out and it would be better if he told you" Gaddes replied.
Then as everyone started looking up at where Dawn had been quietly sitting waiting to hear what Dawn now had found. As he saw that all eyes were now facing him, Dawn stood up and walked forward.
"Well when Gaddes and I were in town when I met an old friend who is very knowledgeable in the many myths and legends of Gaea. I asked him did he know anything about the elixir and he told me that unfortunately he didn't. Although he did say he knows a man in Cesario who he thinks will be able to help us" Dawn told them.
"Alan" Dawn asked.
"Yes Dawn" Alan replied.
"Is there any chance that you will be stopping at Cesario on your way home" Dawn asked.
"I was just planning to head straight back but if you want. I don't mind hanging around Cesario for a couple of days if you want quick transportation and I don't think the men will mind. What do you think Gadde's?"
"No, I don't think that the men would mind" Gadde's replied.
"It's settled then" Alan said.
"Thank you Alan. I appreciate this" Dawn answered.
"Think nothing of it" Alan replied.
Then standing up beside Dawn, Von said.
"Okay then, so Dawn you are going to go to Cesario and to try and gather more information. While I've decided that I'm going to stay here in Fanelia and search with the help of Hitomi and Merle, for more information" Von said.
"Once I get back to Asturia I'll also try to find more information about the elixir" Alan said.
"Okay then, so we're all going to try and gain more information about the elixir. So we will meet back here after a full cycle of the moon." Von said.
"That's okay with me" Alan answered.
"The same" Gaddes answered.
"I'm ready" Hitomi answered.
"No problem" Merle answered.
"Okay" Dawn answered.
"Good, now I think we should all retire and get some rest for the morning" Von said.
Everyone rose up from their seats and taking their possessions made their way out of the room. First Alan followed by Gaddes and then Merle and then finally Dawn.
"Goodnight Von" Dawn said.
"Will discuss this more in the morning before you leave. Okay" Von answered.
"That's no problem" Dawn replied.
Then turning to Hitomi. Dawn bowed his head and said.
"Goodnight M'lady, may you have a peaceful rest".
"Um, thank you Dawn and may your rest also be peaceful" Hitomi answered.
"M'lady" Dawn answered and then made his way out of the room. Finally it was just Von and Hitomi left in the room.
"Come on Hitomi. I'll walk with you back to your room" Von said.
"Thank you Von" Hitomi answered.
As Von looked behind him at the small fireplace he saw that the fire had now burned itself out. Then placing his arm around Hitomi's they walked from the room. As they made their way down through the now silent corridors of the castle back to her room Hitomi began to feel tired and was glad to go back to her room but was sad to have to leave Von if only for a few hours.
"Well goodnight my love" Von said as Hitomi opened the large solid Fanelian oak door.
"Goodnight" Hitomi replied after kissing Von on his left cheek and then she went into her bedroom and closed her door but not before taking one last look at Von as he walked down the corridor to his own room. Once Hitomi had changed into her nightdress she climbed into bed and after blowing the candle beside her bed out. Laid her head down on the soft pillows and fell instantly into a peaceful slumber.
...
It was not long before Hitomi awoke from her sleep, as she felt slightly restless even though she had fAlan asleep as soon she went to her bed. She still felt restless nonetheless and after looking out the window and seeing that it was still dark decided to go for a walk in order to help her get back to sleep. Changing back into her dress and shoes, she pulled on a beautiful blue hooded cloak from her wardrobe that was richly embroidered in many interweaving patterns and designs. She lit a small candle and then pulled the hood up over her head so as to keep it warm. Opened her door and stepped out into the cold, silent corridor which was now pitch dark as all the candles that were lit earlier had now burned themselves all out.
She explored the many passages of the castle and was amazed at how beautifully designed the architecture of the castle was with its solid stone floors, many doors that Hitomi believed must lead to different parts of the castle as they were all shut closed to her at the minute. Its many paintings and banners depicting Fanelia's culture and history. She walked around the castle being careful not to make too much noise. It amazed her that this was a completely new castle and city that been built in the wake of the destruction brought by Zaibach. One that had been designed to provided the greatest protection to its people so as to prevent another atrocity similar to the one committed by Zaibach four years ago.
As she travelled around the castle Hitomi finally came to a large stone staircase that led to a large arch where the light of the moon streamed through and also where a cold draft was coming from. So deciding to go for a look and see if she could get a view of the city at night Hitomi began to climb the large stone steps that wound up through a small cylindrical corridor. When Hitomi reached the top and stepped out through the arch she found the view breathtaking as she had a complete view of the entire city. However, as Hitomi soon realised she was on one of the higher battlements of the castle and feeling cold pulled her cloak tightly around herself for warmth.
As Hitomi gazed out over the battlements for a few moments longer she suddenly had a feeling that she was not alone and turning around she saw that at the bottom end of the battlements there was someone standing. Hitomi felt instantly afraid although she fought it as she knew that if she allowed herself to feel frightened or terrified then Von would instantly feel it. As she stood rooted to the spot unable to move for the moment, hoping that she would not be discovered, and fighting her fears.
Then the dark figure turned its head towards her and began coming forward towards her. In its hand Hitomi saw gleaming in the light of the moon a long silver blade. Hitomi fought her fear even harder as she told herself that she couldn't have Von save her all the time. She needed to be able to protect herself. All the time that she fought her fear she kept remembering back to the time when she had been kidnapped right out of her bedroom at Palace.
The shadowy figure raised its blade gleaming cold in the pale moonlight and then began walking towards her. Hitomi after much inner fighting got her body moving again and made her way quickly back to the arch and mustering up all her courage looked around to see if there were anymore shadowy attackers and seeing that the one that was now coming even closer to her was the only one shouted to it.
"If you come any closer I will shout for the King and both he and all of the guards in this castle will come to my aid" Hitomi shouted with as much authority and courage as she could muster.
The shadowy figure didn't seem to have heard her or maybe it just didn't care as it still continued its approach. Hitomi thought to herself this is it, she was only going to get one chance to end this and she would have to time it right to get in under the attackers adVonce and then attack them with her candle. So Hitomi prepared herself while still fighting her fear and then shouted once more.
"They will come to my aid if I call!"
Preparing herself she made her move and walked straight towards her attacker protecting the flame of the candle with her hand. If her attacker was surprised then they didn't show it as they just kept moving.
So it was that a hooded Hitomi walked forwards toward what could quite possibly be her death while her shadowed attacker marched forward sword held up ready for the attack.
END OF PART III
Sundance
24.01.04 (Euro Date system DD/MM/YY)
AUTHOR MESSAGE
Well, here it is the shadows of the past chapter 3. I hope you have enjoyed this chapter and please don't hesitate to leave feedback as I am always interested to see how the readers feel this story is going. Also, if you enjoyed this chapter then you will be happy to know that chapter 4 is nearly completed and should be released soon if everything goes okay.
In this chapter I have tried to give a little more exposition on the character of Dawn and hopefully answer some questions that readers may have had. In this chapter I also had a lot of fun writing Dawn's story arc beginning at when he returns to his room and ending when the meeting ends. This is because I especially enjoyed the whole interaction between Dawn and Gaddes especially the scenes in Sarah's inn and the scenes where Dawn is trying to prevent Hitomi from being constantly interrupted by Gaddes.
Also if you didn't already know there is a parallel fan fiction that is being written by my good friend and collaborator Butch and this story takes place 25 years after the original Esaflowne series and focuses on Hitomi's daughter Sadako and also features many of the characters and places found in my own story. Now both these stories are a part of the same series and in order to gain the full picture of what is taking place you are advised to read both as there are intermixing plot lines that can only be fully understand if you are following both stories.
However, this doesn't mean that they can't be read as separate stories as they can although I would advise you to read both as you will gain a fuller vision of what is taking place. At the minute chapter 3 is finished and ready for viewing with chapter 4 coming soon.
So this is it from me until chapter 4 is released and if you need any additional information about any part of this series or the original Escaflowne series then you can visit www.butchsforum.co.uk. Also if you have any questions about either the events so far of Shadows Of The Past or The Descended Shadow then you can email us at butchsvideostop@tiscali.co.uk . I promise that we will do our best to answer any questions you have about the series.
END