Chapter 17: There's No Place Like Home – Part 2
Like all of the previous journeys through the pillar of white light, Hitomi could never really see or know what was happening, so she just grasped at sensations and feelings. Sometime during the journey between Earth and Gaea, she knew the body of their departed friend Kylenia faded away to be replaced by the shining, blue brilliance of the goddess. She knew the goddess wasn't going to keep the body once they returned to Gaea; she understood that using Kylenia's body had been the only way to save Gaea. Kylenia had to die so the goddess could appear on Earth and save Gaea's life force, its heart. And now that heart was carried within the goddess, to be taken to a safe and secret location on Gaea. Hitomi knew that the goddess would have to leave them immediately after they arrived on Gaea and she wondered if she'd ever see her again…or at least recognize if the goddess had been close by.
As the white light faded away, Hitomi could see Van again and she sighed. At least, she was going to, but when she realized the pillar of light had left them a few meters above the ocean, her sigh become a started gasp and she plunged into the water before she could say anything.
The water wasn't freezing, but the shock of suddenly being drenched caused Hitomi to frantically claw at the water. She could see Van quickly making his way to the surface among all the bubbles, but she seemed to be having trouble. She was trying to swim with jeans, sneakers, a sweater, and a backpack on, so they were actually dragging her down. Regretfully, Hitomi shrugged the backpack and her sweater off. The burning in her lungs was growing stronger, so she propelled herself upwards as fast as she could. Once she broke the surface, she gasped for air and coughed to get the salt water out of her lungs.
"Hitomi!" Van cried out as he swam the short distance towards her. "Are you okay?" Van's hair was plastered over his face, but Hitomi could see that he was worried.
"I'm okay, but I had to drop the bag and my sweater."
"Oh no. The pictures…." Van said, sorrow filling his eyes. Hitomi stopped treading water as she realized what she had done. The pictures. The pictures of her family, of her home, of her childhood, of her friends, were now making their way to the bottom of the ocean and she would have no opportunity to get more. She snapped out of it when she started to choke on salt water again, but she wanted to cry. Hitomi had just said goodbye forever to her family and friends on Earth and those pictures were all she had left of them. Hitomi forced all her sadness in to the depths of her mind, for they had more immediate problems to deal with.
Hitomi looked around and in the predawn gloom, she could make out the island of Keshia near them. Well, it appeared to be near, but she knew it would be a long swim before they got there. But then she quickly looked back at the sky again. It was clear! No dark, swirling storm clouds, no lightning, no thunder- the Storm was gone! Hitomi turned to Van and saw that he had noticed too.
"We really did." Van said in awe. Hitomi smiled and resisted the urge to hug him, since it would probably drown them both, so she relished in the view of a clear sky for a few moments.
"We better start swimming," she told Van, "I hope we have enough energy to get to the island." As Van nodded his agreement, a squeak from behind Hitomi startled her and caused her to whirl around in the water, images of sharks and hungry whales filling her mind. A dolphin looked back at her and turned its head a few times to get its little eyes pointing at Hitomi. She stared at it stunned, not knowing what to do. The dolphin, however, started bobbing its head up and down and made a lot of clicking and squeaking noises. It then rose up on its tail and started moving away from them, and before they knew it, it had disappeared under the water again. Van and Hitomi just looked at each other and shrugged and started swimming towards the shore.
Only a few minutes had past, but already Hitomi was aching from the effort. She stopped, determined to find a way to kick her sneakers off, when something away in water caught her attention. Van, who had stopped a few feet beyond her, turned to find Hitomi watching a group of fins heading straight toward them. There were about eight of them coming and Van knew that if they were sharks, he'd have no chance to fight them all off. Heck, he didn't even know how to fight one shark off! Van raced to get beside Hitomi, but as he did, he saw something very peculiar. Someone was swimming beside the fins!
He reached Hitomi's side about the same time the group of fins reached them, and much to the relief of Van and Hitomi, they were a group of dolphins. There was also a young Keshian boy with them, and now that he was closer, Van could see that he hadn't been swimming with the dolphins, but had actually been pulled by the dolphins, by holding on to their dorsal fins. The dolphins clicked and squeaked merrily as they swam around them. The young Keshian swam over to Van and Hitomi.
"I didn't believe it when I was told that two land dwellers were all the way out here, but I guess I was wrong." The boy said, with a friendly grin. Hitomi thought he looked around thirteen or fourteen. "What are you doing out here?"
"We're actually not sure." Van said. "We were kind of…dropped here, but we're trying to get to shore."
"Excuse me for my bluntness," the boy said, "But you don't look like you'll be able to make it on your own."
"Don't worry, we understand." Hitomi said. "Who told you we were out here?"
"The dolphin that found you, of course, except it took a while to get it out of him since he was laughing so hard." One of the dolphins near them bobbed his head and clicked some more. Although all the dolphins looked the same to him, Van was willing to bet that that was the same dolphin they saw before. "He swam off to tell the others and I had happened to be nearby to overhear, so we all decided to come and see the land dwellers who thought they were fish.
"For the record, I never once believed I was a fish." Van said sourly, realizing all the dolphins were laughing at them.
"You can talk to dolphins?" Hitomi asked.
"I thought everyone could." The boy said, puzzled, but it only latest for a second. "You can tell me your reasons for being out here later, but I think we should get you two to shore." The boy said. Just then, a small, yellow creature flew over their heads and circled them. Hitomi heard the high pitched giggling and recognized it as a Wind Sprite.
"Perfect timing!" The boy said and reaching down into one of his pockets, he took out a small morsel of food and held it up for the Wind Sprite who flew over towards it. "Please little one, go tell the nearest Mystic that-" the boy paused and turned to them, "Who are you?"
"Van and Hitomi Fanel." Van answered.
"FANEL!" The boy cried. "But that means, you're the king of Fanelia! And you're his queen!" The emotions playing over his face were a mix of wonder and worry, so Hitomi smiled and tried to put him at ease.
"We're not very impressive out here, almost drowning, are we?" Hitomi asked playfully. The boy smiled and blushed and turned back to the Wind Sprite.
"Fly as fast as you can and find a Mystic and tell them the King and Queen of Fanelia are out here and that I'll bring them to Seahorse Beach." The boy told the Wind Sprite. The Wind Sprite flew around their heads a few more times and then raced off towards the island. The boy turned back to them and looked more relaxed. He nodded his head towards them, the closest thing to a bow while in water, and then smiled at them.
"My name is Papek, Your Majesties, and I'll be taking you to shore."
"Thank you, Papek." Hitomi said. "You're a lifesaver." Papek's smile grew even larger than before. Papek then turned to face the dolphins swimming around them and started clicking and squeaking in their own language. The dolphins responded by bobbing their heads and staying in one place. Papek turned back to Hitomi and Van.
"The dolphins have agreed to help us get to shore. Did you see me when I came in? Well, we're all going to do that. A dolphin will swim on either side of you," Papek said as two dolphins did just that with him. "You grab the dorsal fins like this," He said as he held on to the base of the fin, "And then just hold on, keep your head up, and keep your mouth closed. It's that easy!" Van and Hitomi looked warily at the dolphins, but they both knew that had no chance to get to shore by themselves.
"Okay," Van said. "Let's do it."
"Wait!" Hitomi said. "I lost a bag and a sweater of mine, over there a ways." She said to Papek. "Is it possible to recover them?" She asked hopefully.
Papek shrugged. "It shouldn't be too hard." He turned to speak to the dolphins again and a moment later two of them swam away. Papek turned back to Hitomi. "They'll search and bring it to shore if they find it. They'll be able to detect anything unusual down there, but it might take time."
"Thank you." Hitomi said sincerely. "I'm ready now too."
Van watched as Papek motioned two dolphins towards Hitomi and they swam up beside her. She hesitantly reached out and firmly grabbed the fins. Papek made sure she was alright and then signaled to dolphins. Van heard Hitomi screech in surprise, but then she was out of earshot, rapidly making her way to the shore, but then it was his turn to 'mount' the dolphins. Van felt a little nervous with the two large water-bound mammals beside him. They didn't flinch when he grabbed on to them, they just continued to watch him through their black eyes.
"I'll stay behind you two and make sure you're okay." Papek said. Van nodded and tensed himself. Papek clicked at the dolphins and they were off.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
The sun was up and it was a bright, beautiful morning by the time they arrived at Seahorse Beach. Seahorse Beach actually ended up being the public beach near the palace that Van and Hitomi had visited only a few days ago. By the time the dolphins slowed and left them to wade to shore, a large group had gathered on the beach. As soon as Van and Hitomi walked out of the ocean, a large cheer went up and they were both taken back by the reception. The crowd was made up of locals of all ages, some soldiers, the king and queen, and more Mystics then they had ever seen in one place together.
King Loran, Queen Maysera, Fillodam, and Alphenia separated themselves from the crowd and came down the beach to greet them. The King and Queen looked as if they had just recently gotten out of bed. The queen wore her long, blue hair down like everyone else and she was wearing lose silver pants and a pale blue shirt. The King had on a similar outfit. Fillodam and Alphenia looked the same as ever, garbed in their elaborate robes, but their faces looked very tired.
"My friends," King Loran laughed, "It's good to see you again, but you gave us quite the early morning surprise!" Queen Maysera immediately walked over to Hitomi and embraced her like a dear, lost friend while Loran shook Van's hand. "Thank the goddess you two are alright!" Maysera said as she pulled away to see Hitomi blush. "Things were starting to look bleak there for a while."
"Really?" Hitomi asked anxiously. "How bad was it?"
"I've never experienced such a storm before!" Maysera exclaimed. "But enough of that, it's all over and you've safely returned, but why in heavens name were you all the way out there?" Maysera asked as she pointed out to sea.
"Well, it wasn't our first choice-" Hitomi said, but a polite cough from Alphenia stopped Hitomi's explanation.
"It was necessary for the goddess to leave them immediately to begin to repair the damage done to Gaea. She knew they would be safe in our waters." The Queen started to ask another question, but Alphenia shook her head and smiled. "We will talk more about it later, but now we should get these two to the palace and make them comfortable."
As they walked back to the palace, Hitomi felt like she was part of an impromptu parade. Keshians lined the streets and called out to them and cheered. Hitomi couldn't help notice that several buildings were damaged and although everyone was happy to see them, some people had very sad eyes. Hitomi knew that the Storm must have killed some of their loved ones and destroyed things they loved, and not just here, but everywhere. A very urgent need came upon her to return home as soon as possible.
When they reached the palace gates, a familiar face was there to greet them. Captain Rennat stood there and smiled widely once they came into view. "Your Majesties!" He boomed. "I am glad to see you two safe and sound. We knew you had succeeded when the storm disappeared, but when you didn't immediately return, we began to worry."
"Captain Rennat," Van said, shaking his hand. "We're glad to see you too are okay. How is the crew?"
"The lads are all fine, back at the dry dock repairing the ship."
"Repairing?" Hitomi asked, "Was it damaged?"
"Yes it was, but not severely." Rennat answered. "We started repairs yesterday and should be ready to fly out tomorrow if necessary." Van looked over at Hitomi and could see the naked longing in her eyes to go home. He too was anxious to see how his country and friends faired.
"We will leave tomorrow as soon as possible." Van said. "Make the preparations, Captain." Captain Rennat saluted and then walked away. Van then turned to the king. "Loran, I'm afraid I have to ask permission to stay here another night."
Loran laughed and slapped Van on the back playfully. "Van! You're too formal. Of course you and Hitomi can stay." He motioned for Maysera to take over. She gently guided them into the palace and led them to a room herself.
"I'm afraid we can't give you the rooms you had before," Maysera said, guiding them into a comfortable room with a bed, modest bathroom, wardrobe, and table against the wall with three chairs. "The palace was damaged by the storm and your old room took a beating." The room was decorated like all the rooms in Keshia, big open windows, plants in every corner, and the furniture was carved in plant and animal forms. Since they were on the top floor, they had a balcony and a view looking out to the ocean. "We did manage to save the belongings you left in our care and we've placed them in the wardrobe for you." Maysera then critically looked at Hitomi and Van and frowned. "I can only imagine what the two of you have been through, but you both looked exhausted. Please take this opportunity to rest. I will have someone nearby to make sure you are not disturbed and to be there if you need anything." Maysera's smile returned as she headed towards the door. "I do hope you'll join us for dinner though." Hitomi and Van nodded and with that, Maysera left them alone.
Simultaneously, Van and Hitomi fell into each others arms and held each other tight.
"I never thought we'd be alone again." Van whispered in to her ear. Hitomi smiled.
"For a while there, I wasn't sure if we'd still be alive." Hitomi said. All the stress had finally lifted off her shoulders, but the exhaustion came crashing down in place of it. "I could sleep for a month," she said, "but I don't think I can make it to the bed.
"Would you like me to draw you a bath?' Van asked.
"Oooo…tempting, but I think I'd like to sleep first." Hitomi looked up in to Van's eyes and bit her lip. "Afterwards?"
Van laughed softly. "Sure, after our nap." Van then guided Hitomi over to the bed where they both pulled off excess clothing and then slipped into bed. Hitomi cuddled close to Van and kissed him deeply.
"I love you." She said.
"I love you, too." Van replied. Hitomi clung to Van as thousands of thoughts and memories raced though her head. Tears started to silently roll down her face, but she didn't fight them. She knew it was a combination of everything that happened and of exhaustion, so she let Van stroke her back, and eventually they were both fast asleep.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Hitomi woke up in the late afternoon to sounds of repairs going on around the palace and in the city. Hitomi's eyes fluttered open, but she immediately closed them as the sun blinded her. She and Van had been so tired that they hadn't bothered to close their windows or the drapes. She quickly turned around and almost crashed in to Van, who was also awake and smiling. She smiled back and pulled the covers over head.
"Sun bad. Hurt eyes." She said, though muffled through the sheets. Van laughed and slowly pulled the sheets back down.
"How are you feeling?" He asked, propping himself up on his elbow. Hitomi was on her back, but her eyes turned towards him.
"Much better. I'm still tired, but I'm no longer exhausted. Plus, we probably shouldn't sleep all day or else we won't be able to sleep tonight."
"I couldn't agree more." Van said playfully before he leaned over and started kissing her neck.
"Van!" Hitomi exclaimed, surprised, yet excited by his actions.
Van lifted his head to look at her. "Remember what I said earlier? How I thought we'd never be alone again?" Hitomi nodded. "Well, I meant it, so I'm making up for lost time." Hitomi started giggling as Van continued to kiss her neck, but her giggles were soon smothered as he moved to her lips.
Much later, they were resting peacefully in each others arms. Hitomi poked Van in the side. "Hey, you owe me a bath." She said. Van playfully sighed and tried to look deep in thought, but after Hitomi poked him again he laughed and kissed her again. "Okay, okay, I surrender; I'll go draw your bath." He said. As he started to move, Hitomi reached out and pulled his head towards her for another deep kiss. She sighed contently as Van pulled away and went into the bathroom. She turned her face back to the window and let it bask in the sunlight that was spilling in to the room. A few minutes later, Van called out to her that the bath was ready. She slowly got up and made her way to the bathroom, and when she arrived there, she almost started laughing.
The tub was full of warm water, but it smelled like lavender and there were rose petals floating on top of bubbles, and there were a few candles lit around the room.
"You did all this!" Hitomi said, pleasantly surprised. Van nodded and grinned. "How did you know to do all this?" She asked.
"Well, all this stuff was here so I figured it was for the bath, so I threw it in. I know you like all this stuff, so I just hoped I did it right."
"I'll have to test it." Hitomi said playfully.
"Then by all means, please try it out." Van said, bowing towards her.
"Thank you." Hitomi took Van's outstretched hand and he helped her ease into the tub. Hitomi closed her eyes and let the warmth and aromas surround her. She opened her eyes again and found Van waiting for her judgment. She smiled. "It's wonderful." She sighed. Then she raised her eyebrows. "This tub is big enough for two, you know."
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Dinner turned out to be a small scale feast. Van and Hitomi, once again dressed in their borrowed Keshian clothes, sat with the king and queen, their children, members of their court, Alphenia, Fillodam, and a handful of Mystics. As they ate, they were told how the Storm had crept closer and closer to Keshia, until the Mystics could hold it back no longer. Damage occurred all over the island, but thankfully the wrath of the Strom didn't last too long. Van and Hitomi then heard how bright light started breaking through the Storm until a thick column of light completely broke through and slowly engulfed the Storm until it was gone. Then, the court practically begged Van and Hitomi to tell about their adventure. A quick conversation with Alphenia before the meal let them know that they could tell all except where the heart would be kept, so they were free to tell everything that had happened.
Van and Hitomi took turns telling the tale, keeping their audience spellbound and completely still. Even the royal children didn't dare make a sound. However, the Keshians couldn't help but voice their reactions when they realized they were originally Atlantians. Before any speculation could get out of hand, Alphenia stood up and the table went silent. She told them that it was right for them to know their past, but that they must keep it to themselves and never tell any outsiders. She told them Van and Hitomi were the only outsiders who knew and had vowed to die with their secrets untold. As one, the Keshians touched their thumbs to their bowed heads in what could only be a solemn vow. Alphenia then sat down and motioned for Hitomi to continue.
As Hitomi had guessed, the Keshians became emotional as she described Kylenia's death. Hitomi choked on a few of the words and a few tears rolled down her checks, but she wanted everyone to know how brave and honorable Kylenia had been. Hitomi even caught sight of a few tears running down Alphenia's face. But then, everyone became absolutely entranced as Van described the goddess's appearance through Kylenia's body and the magic she cast to save the heart of Gaea. Van quickly summed up their stay with Hitomi's family, but by the shocked looks on everyone's faces, they understood that Hitomi could never return to her homeland. They all were looking at Hitomi, so she dropped her gaze into her lap and tried to fight the redness in her face.
In the quiet, King Loran pushed his chair back and stood up. Hitomi looked up to watch him. "We are honored and humbled by your sacrifice." The king said to Hitomi. "We will never forget your great deed that saved us all." And then he bowed very low towards her. Immediately, everyone else around the table stood up and followed the example set by their king. Hitomi was stunned speechless and looked to Van. He took her hand and squeezed it, his love shining through his eyes.
"A toast," Queen Maysera said as everyone stood straight again. They picked up their glasses and waited for her to continue. "To King Van Fanel and Queen Hitomi Fanel, the heroes of Gaea!"
"To the heroes!" Everyone shouted, and then the dessert course was served.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
The Keshians didn't keep them long at dinner. The king and queen invited Van, Hitomi, and the Mystics to join them in a sitting room where they would have more privacy. There, the Mystics asked Van and Hitomi a few questions about their journey, especially about Kylenia and the goddess, but once they were satisfied, Alphenia announced that they would be returning to the Sanctuary and she wished Van and Hitomi a safe journey home.
As they were leaving, Alphenia took Hitomi's hands and smiled warmly at her. "The stars truly did pick the right person to save us." When Alphenia pulled away, a small version of the Ocean's Heart was left in Hitomi's hand. Hitomi started to say something, but Alphenia nodded and closed Hitomi's fingers around the jewel. "We are indebted to you and wish to give you this. If you ever require our assistance, just drop it in any vessel of water and we will come immediately." Then Alphenia raised her hands to either side of Hitomi's face and drew the shape of their swirling tattoo on Hitomi's cheeks with her forefingers. "You are now one of us, not in body, but in spirit." Alphenia intoned. Alphenia pulled away and headed towards the door. "Be well, daughter." And then she quietly closed the door behind her.
Stunned by what Alphenia had implied, Hitomi let Van guide her upstairs to their rooms. Moments later, someone knocked on their door. It was Alderan, the king and queen's top advisor.
"Forgive the late interruption, Your Majesties, but this was just delivered to the palace for you." Alderan held up Hitomi's sweater and backpack.
"Oh, thank you Alderan!" Hitomi cried as she unexpectedly hugged Alderan, causing him to turn bright red.
"Er, your welcome, Your Majesty, but I'm merely the delivery boy." Hitomi pulled away, unaware of Alderan's awkwardness, and took the bag and sweater from him.
"Was it, by chance, brought by a young man named Papek?" Hitomi asked.
"Why, yes it was!" Alderan said. "Do you know him?"
"He was the one who found us in the middle of the ocean and helped us get back. Oh my goodness, we never thanked him! Is he still here?"
"Yes, he's waiting in the entrance hall. He wanted to make sure that these were your missing items."
"Can you bring him up here? We should thank him personally." Hitomi asked.
"Of course, I'll be back in a moment." Alderan said, taking his leave. Van shut the door and turned expectantly to Hitomi, as she opened her bag and looked it. Hitomi squeaked with happiness as she pulled out her pictures, all tightly sealed within plastic bags.
"Thank god for my mother's cautious heart! The pictures aren't ruined!" Hitomi cried, on the verge of tears.
"That's wonderful!" Van exclaimed. He breathed a deep sigh of relief. He knew Hitomi needed those pictures. Another knock came to the door. Van opened it and Papek was standing there shyly with Alderan beside him. Hitomi flew to Papek and embraced him, as she had Alderan. Van hid a smile as Papek turned an even brighter shade of red and his eyeballs looked like they were ready to pop out of his head.
"Thank you so much, Papek!" Hitomi said as she pulled away. "These items are very precious to me and I would have been devastated if I had lost them."
"Ah…it was no problem, Your Majesty." Papek stammered. "The dolphins were the ones who found them, I just brought it to the palace."
"Still, it means a great deal to me." Hitomi continued. "Van and I also wanted to thank you for getting us to shore safely. We probably would have drowned if it weren't for you." She said, smiling. Before Papek could utter another denial, Van spoke up.
"Please thank the dolphins for us too, Papek. We're very grateful to all of you."
"Here, I want you to have this." Hitomi said as she reached in to her bag and pulled out a charm on a chain. "It's not much, but it's from where I grew up. It's called a keychain and it has a picture of the city I grew up in, Tokyo." She held it out to Papek and he looked to Alderan who nodded and smiled. Papek took the keychain with shaking hands and studied it closely.
"Thank you very much. I will treasure it always." Papek said, a large smile forming on his face.
"Papek and I will be on our way now, Your Majesties." Alderan said. "We don't want to keep you from your sleep." Papek nodded his agreement and both he and Alderan bowed and said goodnight. Van closed the door again to find Hitomi hugging the pictures and the bag to herself.
"You won't miss that…keychain?" Van asked.
"Oh, heck no. I wanted to give Papek something special, and although it's a very common and ordinary thing on Earth, it will be unique here." Hitomi said, stifling a yawn.
"Let's go to bed." Van said, smiling at Hitomi. "We're going home tomorrow."
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Hitomi nervously paced in her and Van's room aboard the airship. She was dressed in her comfortable traveling clothes of pants, boots, a light tunic, and her hair was up in a ponytail. Every few minutes, she'd start to bite her fingernails, but then she'd make herself stop, until her mind started wandering again and she starting biting them again without thinking. Van entered to the room to find her absently biting her nails.
"Are we there yet?" Hitomi asked as soon as he shut the door.
"We'll be within sight of Fanelia very soon." Van said, walking over to her.
"Argh! I'm going crazy!" Hitomi said, leaning her head on Van's chest. "I'm so scared of what we'll find when we get there…." Hitomi spoke of their mutual fear of finding out what happened to Fanelia and their friends while they were gone. Van's strategy had been to push it to the back of his mind and deal when they knew. Hitomi had obviously been dwelling on it, due to the condition of her nails.
"Don't fret, Hitomi." Van said, hugging her close. "They would have taken precautions and taken care of each other. Please don't get worked up over only possibilities. We will know very soon."
"HOY! FANELIA!" Someone shouted from the bridge. Hitomi and Van pulled apart and grinned like children. Van took Hitomi's hand and they ran out of the room towards the bridge. The bridge was almost a complete glass structure, to allow for excellent sight, so they had a great view as Fanelia appeared on the horizon. Van nodded to Captain Rennat as he and Hitomi went over to the front window. The water below was already changing colors as they moved closer to shore. At first glance, they couldn't make out anything, but they both inwardly sighed when they didn't see any large fires or smoke. As they got closer to the harbor, Hitomi gasped and put her face right up to the glass.
"Are those guymelefs out there?" She exclaimed. "Are we being attacked!"
"I need a sightglass." Van said a crewmember quickly handed him one. He looked through and after a few seconds he sighed and laughed in relief. "It's not an attack, it's a welcoming committee."
"What!" Hitomi said, accepting Van's offer to take the sightglass.
"Look carefully at the guymelefs. They are wearing their parade cloaks. And there's a crowd gathered in front of them."
"You're right! Gee, I almost had a heart attack." Hitomi said.
"You almost gave me a heart attack." Van replied.
Above the ship, the Fanelian royal crest flew high so they would soon be recognized. Van and Hitomi stayed by the window and watched in amazement as the ship came in to land. Eight guymelefs stood on the edge of the harbor's dry dock and a huge crowd of people gathered in front of them. As they neared, the guymelefs lifted lances with large Fanelian flags and the Fanelian royal crest attached to them. The crowd started cheering as the ship began its descent. At the forefront of the crowd, Hitomi spotted a very familiar group standing on a large, raised platform, for which the airship was heading.
"Look Van!" Hitomi cried. "There's Merle! And Allen! And Lola! And Lord Finkbone!" Tears of joy and relief started streaming down Hitomi's face and Van put an arm around her shoulder. She wiped the tears off her face and walked with Van back in to the ship to reach the exit. As the ship touched down and the motors powered down, a crew member opened the latch and swung open the door. The noise was deafening. Van and Hitomi were temporarily blinded by the sunlight, but as they slowly made their way out, their vision returned to see hundreds of people cheering and waving, and they wouldn't have been able to contain their smiles if they wanted to.
"LORD VAN!" A familiar voice shouted. A second later, Merle crashed in to Van and hugged him tightly.
"Oh Merle, thank heavens you're safe." Van said, returning Merle's hug, surprising Hitomi a little at the tenderness in his voice. But then Merle pounced on her.
"HITOMI!" Merle cried as she hugged her friend. Hitomi hugged her back and smiled widely at Van. Merle pulled back and wiped the tears from her face as she smiled at the two of them. "We were worried there for a while. You two seem to have a habit of waiting until the last minute to get things done."
"Hey!" Hitomi said, playfully taking a swing at Merle, who laughed and ducked under it. At that point, the others came up to greet them. Hitomi was very happy to notice that Allen and Lola were holding hands and she couldn't wait to hear how that had happened. Lola looked as lovely as ever, even with a few scratches on her face, and Allen looked well too, except he did have a large bandage around his arm and appeared to be a little roughed up. Lord Finkbone looked like he had been worrying himself to death, due to his haggard look and increased amount of grey hair, but now he look very relieved and in need of a large brandy. Merle, as always, looked vibrant and energetic.
One last person hobbled out on crutches from behind Allen and Lola and it took Hitomi a second to realize who it was.
"Patrick? PATRICK! You're awake!" Hitomi cried out. She rushed over to the young man who was her bodyguard and embraced him. Patrick blushed, but carefully hugged her back with one arm.
"It's good to have you back too, my lady." Patrick said playfully, continuing the old joke between them. Hitomi laughed and then went around embracing her other friends, as Van did the same thing. Hitomi could hardly contain the amount of relief and joy she felt at seeing her friends again. Her dreams had been haunted with nightmares of her friends dead and seeing them healthy and well meant the world to Hitomi.
Hitomi looked around and tried to take in the amount of damage that had been done. The harbor was in rough shape; she could see the remains of ships and airships, but not all of them had been damaged. The cargo holds looked beat up, but still intact. Past the harbor, she could see that repairs had already begun on a number of buildings. Some needed minor repairs; others would have to be built from scratch again. Through the trees, Hitomi could see that the castle was in bad shape. A few towers had collapsed and it appeared that segments of the roof had caved in. Hitomi sighed and started to mentally prepare herself for the amount of work that would be done in the next few years- but it was better than the alternative.
"Your Majesty," Lord Finkbone said to Van. "I think it would be appropriate if you said something to the crowd."
"You should, Lord Van." Merle added. "Most of them have been waiting here since we received news of your return."
"That's a good idea." Van said as he took Hitomi's hand and moved to stand at the edge of the platform and faced the people. They were greeted with more cheering, but eventually everything became quiet.
Van opened his mouth to say something, but then shut it. He did this a few more times, before he looked over at Hitomi. Hitomi smiled and gave his hand a squeeze. Van smiled back and turned to face the crowd. He sighed, and then spoke.
"It sure is good to be home again."
The crowd cheered again and Van's smile stretched cheek to cheek. After a few moments, he motioned for quiet and became serious.
"Over the past few days, I honestly didn't know if we'd ever make it home again, or if there would be a home to return to. I can't express how relieved and thankful I am that there is. Hitomi and I had to overcome many trials and difficulties to finally end the threat to Gaea, but unfortunately it cost us a terrible price. The Mystic Kylenia, our friend and partner from the island of Keshia, lost her life in order to help save us all. If it hadn't have been for Kylenia, Hitomi would have died, and in the end, we all would have died. We all owe her so much." Van shook his head gently, sighed, and then continued to speak.
"We were not the only ones who suffered losses though. I know Fanelia suffered; I know Gaea suffered; and I know you suffered. Homes and loved ones were lost to the senseless destruction and I'm sorry we couldn't work faster to save them. Hitomi and I extend our deepest sympathy to those who have lost loved ones and to those who are suffering. I ask that we observe a moment of silence for those who have left us."
The harbor was still, but a slight sob from behind caused Hitomi to turn her head to see Lola biting her lip as tears slide down her face. Hitomi paled. Who, she mouthed to Lola. Lola wiped her eyes and whispered loud enough for Hitomi to hear. "Master Fron."
Hitomi turned back stunned. Master Fron was gone and she never got a chance to say goodbye or to thank him for everything he had done. She looked in to the crowd and she saw too many sad faces and too many tears, just like Lola's. Hitomi closed her eyes and a few tears fell down her cheeks. She recalled the images of fear, destruction, and hopelessness she had seen in Daedalus's viewing-pool and she shuddered to know that these people had actually suffered through it. But when she opened her eyes, she also saw those same people being comforted by others around them: family, friends, and neighbors. They were not going to mourn alone and they would never be alone. Hitomi felt fiercely proud of her people at that moment. They were taking care of each other and as long as people looked out for one another, everything would be okay. Hitomi peaked behind her again and saw that Allen had put his arm around Lola and Merle had moved to her other side and was hugging her. Hitomi smiled, turned back, and leaned into Van and listened as he resumed speaking.
"Once again, it's time to rebuild our homes. We're all going to work together and the crown will make sure that everyone gets help. I'm personally going to authorize funds from the treasury to help pay for the repairs. The soldiers will work in shifts to help with community buildings and afterwards individual homes. As hard as starting over can be, I recommend keeping an open mind about it. Redesign your floor plan, plant that garden you always wanted, add an extra room- try to find joy in it, the same way you can find the joy in a happy memory. Never forget those who are gone, but remember the joy they gave you and…." Van hesitated and turned to face Hitomi and gently caressed her face.
"…always trust in love."
Van bent down to kiss Hitomi and the crowd exploded with cheers again. Hitomi wrapped her arms around Van's neck and kissed him deeply in return, vaguely aware of their large audience.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
While Van and Hitomi traveled by carriage back up to the castle, Allen and Lord Finkbone reported to them both on everything that had happened since they left for Keshia. On the ride up, Van and Hitomi were constantly interrupting the report to view the damage to their city. Dark scorch marks were all over the place, left by the violent lightning; many homes and buildings were nothing more than piles of rubble; and the winds had blown off many roofs. However, they were pleasantly surprised to see that a tent community had been set up in the tournament fields for people that had lost their homes, until new homes were ready for them. Temporary structures were being built around the tents to offer further shelter and comfort. Overall, Fanelia was in worse shape than Keshia, mainly because the Mystics had been able to hold the Storm back until the very end.
They finally reached their destination and viewed what was left of the castle. It was in sad shape: towers had fallen, roofs had collapsed, and rubble was piled everywhere. Certain parts of the castle had been blocked off until they were deemed structurally sound, which included Van and Hitomi's rooms, so they would be sleeping in a smaller room in a safe wing of the castle. Right away, Van got started working. He spoke with the treasurer and signed off on the funds he had promised the people. He then dictated messages to be sent to Asturia, Freid, and neighboring countries, briefly telling them about his and Hitomi's journey and how the Storm would be gone for good and then inquiring about the status of that country, its people, and if they needed any help. While Van did that, Hitomi made rounds around the castle with Merle, speaking to everyone she could, thanking them for everything they had done, and sometimes offering her condolences. Merle then took her outside so she could see the tent community that had been set up and how the repairs were going. Citizens were thrilled that Hitomi wanted to see how the work was going and they were eager to show off their accomplishments.
As they were leaving the tent community, Hitomi paused and looked across the empty field. She smiled as an idea came to her and starting asking Merle if it would be possible to get a stage set further back in the field. Once Merle caught on that Hitomi wanted to throw a party, she helped by making her own suggestions, and soon they were hurrying back to the castle to make preparations.
Later that day, Hitomi was in her and Van's temporary room getting ready, when Van came in with a grin on his face. Hitomi turned to face him and lifted her eyebrows.
"So," Van started, "we're having a party, are we?"
"You betca!" Hitomi said, slowly walking towards him.
"And, it's actually going to be pulled off, I mean, the people-"
"The people were thrilled about the idea and started helping as soon as they heard. They need a break, Van. They need to celebrate that the Storm is gone forever and that they have a second chance in life."
"But-"
"But nothing, it's okay. Lord Finkbone thinks it's a great idea. We won't be wasting resources, it's going to be a fairly modest party, compared to the Dragon Moon Festival, but it will be a well deserved break for everyone." Hitomi said as she closed the gap between her and Van and wrapped her arms around his neck. Van leaned down and very gently kissed Hitomi.
"You're so wonderful." He said, as he pulled her into a hug. "What would I do without you?"
"I love you, Van." Hitomi said, holding him a little tighter.
"I love you, too."
Hitomi pulled back and held Van at a distance, looking him up and down. "You need to change for the party, something cool and causal I think."
"Whatever you say, dear."
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Hitomi and Van walked hand in hand down to the party, with Lola and Allen accompanying them. The sun was setting and the sky was a spectacular array of oranges, pinks, and blues. Torches were being lit along the path to the field to help everyone find their way. The four of them talked until they reached the grounds, and by that time the sun had completely set. The empty field beside the tent community had been transformed into an impromptu festival. On the west side, there were tables of food and drink and on the east side, empty chairs and tables for people to sit. The stage that Hitomi had initially pictured was set up on the north side and a group of musicians were already playing. A group of young people were dancing in front of stage, and Hitomi was eager to join them, but Van's hunger pulled her along to the food tables. They found a free table and starting tearing in to their meals. Finally Allen asked to hear the story of their adventure and once again Hitomi and Van took turns telling the tale. Lord Finkbone and his wife happened to be close by and they quickly took a seat at the table to hear the story. Merle snuck in soon after that too. As time went by, a crowd formed their table, all intent on hearing the tale firsthand from the king and queen.
The story finished on the humorous return to Gaea and the audience laughed and clapped enthusiastically. Hitomi stood up suddenly and everyone fell quiet.
"I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm ready to dance!" Van laughed, leapt up, offered her his hand, and they hurried over towards the stage. A large number of people were now dancing and although it was a little crowded, it was worth it to see everyone smiling and laughing.
Just as Van and Hitomi finished a fast paced dance, the sky exploded with colors and bangs. Everyone stopped, including the band, and watched fireworks explode above them.
"Did you plan this?" Van asked Hitomi.
"No, I didn't! I wonder who did?" Hitomi replied, but then she caught Merle's eye and Merle grinned mischievously. "Oh, I should have known." Hitomi laughed. Hitomi leaned against Van and he wrapped his arms around her while they watched the fireworks. It was perfect homecoming.
As the fireworks came to a close, Patrick and his brothers pushed their way through the crowd to the stage. They went up and briefly spoke with the musicians. Hitomi saw the musicians smile and nod in agreement and they brought out a few extra instruments for the boys. The eldest brother started beating a steady beat on a hand drum, and then a few more drums joined in and then pairs of sticks were banged and rubbed together to create a higher pitched beat. Patrick and another brother joined in with shakers and a band member started ringing little bells in beat with the drums. All the people gathered on the field turned towards the stage, excitement and curiosity on their faces. Patrick looked over and winked at Hitomi.
Hitomi leaned in close to Van. "What's going on?"
Van smiled and leaned down. "It looks like Patrick and his brothers are going to lead us in their own version of the celebration anthem." Hitomi frowned in confusion.
"I remember that from our wedding. Isn't it a slow ballad?"
"Yes, but this is definitely the beat for it, only faster. I've never heard it like this. Let's move closer, I want to see this."
As Van and Hitomi maneuvered their way closer to the stage, a few flutes and lutes joined the music and the brothers started singing. It was definitely the celebration anthem, but it appeared that Patrick and his brothers had created their own version. It was a lot more fun and upbeat than the original. From what Hitomi remembered from her wedding, the celebration anthem was a song to celebrate life and prosperity, usually preformed at royal weddings and official-heir-ceremonies. Hitomi could tell everyone knew the words, but they were watching the boys to see how they did it the first time. Some started clapping with the same beat as the drums. As the boys finished the first verse, they motioned the people to join them. At first a few did in quiet voices, but then Van completed surprised Hitomi by joining in, in a rather loud singing voice. The people near them saw their king singing and their shyness dissolved and soon everyone was singing loudly and grinning like fools. People started swaying to the music as more instruments joined in. Soon, everyone was dancing in place and singing the celebration anthem.
Hitomi wasn't familiar with the words, but she couldn't stop smiling and laughing. Van had taken her hands in his own and was dancing with her. Hitomi couldn't recall if she had ever seen Van so carefree and relaxed before, so she stopped wondering and just enjoyed the dance.
In the middle of everything, Van pulled Hitomi closer to him and their dancing turned into a slow dance. He held her gently and whispered in her ear.
"Thank you for coming back with me. I would have been lost without you."
"I'd follow you anywhere, Van. You are my home, my husband, my life-" Hitomi paused, reached back, took Van's hand and placed it on her abdomen. "-and the father of our child."
Van's face froze, but his eyes widened as he stared down at Hitomi. Hitomi smiled back warmly. A grin slowly crept on to Van's face. He reached up and held Hitomi's face and bent down to kiss her deeply.
The singing around them ended on a high note, but the musicians took over and continued to play and the people kept dancing. At the same time, the fireworks started up again and the people cheered in response.
Van and Hitomi continued kissing under the brilliantly lit night sky, knowing that they'd always be together and that the future of Gaea, and of Fanelia, was safe again.
The End.