Disclaimer: I do not own Escaflowne, nothing more to say.

Forgotten by Destiny

By Ryoko Porter

Part Ten – Eighteen Years Before

The disappearance of Folkin had left the entire country shaken. People were uncertain of what the future would bring, and how the royal family would react. They were worried about the new apparent king, who wasn't even a decade old. There was also worry about the queen, and her reaction to this new tragic loss. But that was only among the commoners, for within the castle there was a great more anxiety.

The war generals were nearly in a riot over what should be done. Some wanted to go and search for the prince, others thought that they should take over thrown. But all agreed that they should step up the security, ready if any neighboring countries try to take advantage of their weakness.

What was left of the royal family wasn't at all taking the disappearance well. Van was barely eating and sleeping away most of the days. At eight, he was old enough to understand that his brother wasn't coming back. This confused and frightened him, making him withdrawn from everyone but his kitten companion Merle. The queen was in a state of shock, and entered a state of morning. Without her family, Vari had nothing in this world. She was only queen by marriage, giving her little political power. And her youngest son seemed to be afraid of being close to her.

It was almost two weeks after Folkin had not returned when things seemed to take a drastic decline for the family. One of the lords of the land had threatened to take the thrown, and throw out the 'troublesome Draconians'. The overwhelming opposition only saved them from other lords and ladies. And at that time, Vari had enough authoritative support to take the lord's title and lands.

But later that night, the queen was not so strong. She couldn't accept that her oldest son was gone, though none of the search parties had brought anything more than his supplies back. Something from within told her that he was alive somewhere, lost in mind and body. So she readied to leave, packing some dried food and other essentials.

It was far past one in the morning, meaning the castle would be asleep, including her youngest son. Making her way to Van's room, she intended to say 'goodbye' without him knowing. However when she finally entered the room, she found that while he was at rest, his companion was not. Merle usually did not share a room with him, but with the current events, she'd been allowed to stay with him whenever he wanted. Vari observed the gentle scene of the little girl sitting in Van's bed, with his head cradled in her lap. It was so peaceful and loving that Vari felt humbled. She could see that the two were as destined to be together as she and his father had been.

Quietly Vari came close to the two children, the girl bowing as much as she could without disturbing her charge. She could see apprehension in little Merle's eyes, and wondered if the kitten had any idea of what she was going to do. She kneeled next to the bed, lightly placing her hand on Van's shoulder. She didn't want to wake him.

'Merle, will you take care of Van for me?' she whispered to the girl, still looking at her son. 'Will you love him for me?'

'Merle does,' Merle whispered back. Vari then looked at her, and saw that she did.

'I know, and he will need you. I want you to promise me that you'll always be his,' Vari wasn't entirely sure why she asked, but she felt it was right.

'Merle promises that she'll stay his, forever and ever.'

'I thank you little one, and I wish you both happiness,' Vari smiled. The two females looked at each other for another moment, a bond of understanding being created. Then Vari kissed her son's head softly, telling him of her love.

Leaving, Vari never looked back, she didn't think that she could. Going to the roof, she looked at her home for the last time. Then with little ceremony, she released her wings and left. Never again to be seen.

'Goodbye lady,' Merle whispered as she saw an angel fly away from the window.

End Part 10.