Disclaimer: I do not own Escaflowne…

Author's Note: Hi guys! Like I promised, here is the next and Last chapter of this story. I'm sorry for the lack of updates for this story. Honestly, I've been busy, with classes and all (as usual). Now that the dreaded Finals are done, now I have time to write. It took me a while to upload this chapter because towards the end, I had a bit of writer's block. I was thinking how I should conclude everything that happened. Hopefully, everything that happened would make sense. If you want to ask questions if you feel you are still confused, then don't hesitate to ask and ask your questions on the forum for this story. I will gladly answer them. The epilogue will be updated the next day. Although it was completed before this chapter, I had to make some alterations when I read it over again and again. But, it will be updated tomorrow. As you all know, this is the last chapter of the story. It saddens me that this story has come to a conclusion. I really, really, REALLY want to thank you, my fans and readers, for reading this story from the beginning until the end. Even though this story may be cliché, with a lot of grammar mistakes, I gave it my all to make this story as good as I can get it. When I think back, this was my first fanfic I ever wrote for the Escaflowne and i am sad to see that it is ending. I hope everyone enjoyed reading as much as I enjoyed writing it. Thank you once more and enjoy the last chapter of Together Yoyokaigirini.

P.S. I'm apologize if the format isn't good after uploading it to I wanted the paragraphs spaced more but somehow it wouldn't let me. So please bare with this for now.

Chapter 17- Confessions of love, Farewell again. And then…

"Hitomi!" was the first word that Van heard in the quiet area, holding the one girl he truly loved in his hands. Immediately, he could feel his friends close by, looking at Hitomi with disdain in their eyes.

"Hitomi! Hitomi wake up!" Van heard Millerna scream, desperation apparent in her usual calm voice. He could feel Millerna shaking Hitomi's body frantically, causing him to bob in every direction. "Hitomi! You can't die yet! Hitomi!" Merle joined in as the two girls tried their very best to bring Hitomi back.

"No…this…can't be happening," Millerna sadly said as she kneeled her head against Hitomi's motionless body. "She can't…" Dryden kneeled beside Millerna and patted her back. "Hitomi…" he whispered sadly.

All five of them sat near the frail form of their dear friend, while Van sat there, paralyzed with shock. This came unexpected between them all. The only thing that they felt was utter dread. Hitomi was the one who glued this group together, bringing her bright personality in their lives that changed them forever. They would do anything for her. Yet, that thought was no longer possible. Life will no longer be the same without Hitomi in their lives, knowing she was alive and well with her undying smile.

"She…she didn't deserve this," Merle said. "Why? Why did this happen!"

Everyone are talking at once while Van remained where he is, face pale as white. Everything is happening so fast for him. He couldn't find anything in his mind to regain his composure. Because of what happened to Hitomi, he lost everything. He lost his father, his mother, his older brother, and now he lost Hitomi, the first girl he ever loved. Emotions surged through him all at once and paralyzed him.

Kyoko stood behind at the top of the stairs, watching as the group gathered together joined. This time, her eyes were filled with shock, an emotion that she had not experienced for such a long time. Why? Why does she feel shock? She shouldn't care. She should be happy to see the one girl that made everything complicated dead. She should be happy. But why does her heart stir at this moment?

"It's…it's all my fault." Kyoko's eyes fell upon the young monarch.

Van's pale face soon returned to normal. "Because of me…she had to face this…" Millerna and Merle looked up as Van finally looked away from the wall. "I knew all along…that I still loved her. I promised myself…that I wouldn't hurt her. I promised to protect her with all I have. But…I failed. I failed her…"

"Van, you shouldn't blame yourself," said Allen. "You…did all you could to protect her…"

Van shook his head. Everything that happened until this point should be blamed on him. It was his fault that he should have confessed to her. He knew that she was hurting because of him. She did everything for him and he didn't do anything in return for her devotion. Just now, Hitomi gave up her life just so he could go on living. He didn't want this to happen at all. "Hitomi…" he uttered to himself grudgingly. He could never forgive himself for what he did.

Before everyone could mourn, the entire temple began to shake violently. Every piece of the temple began to crumble piece-by-piece, cracks piercing the once smooth floors and disconnecting everything. "What's…what's going on!" yelled Dryden, standing up as he protected Millerna in his arms.

"The place is falling apart," Van said. "The power source that held this city together is killed." He turned to his friends. "Go! Go now!" He turned around and viewed the seal that locked the monster up.

"What about you!" Allen retorted. "If we go, you're going to be killed! We can't leave Hitomi and you behind!" Allen paused when he looked into Van's face. "Wait, you're not planning to kill yourself!"

"Hitomi…we lost her. I don't want to lose you too!" Millerna cried.

"That's right! If you die, then I will be alone!" Merle yelled. "I couldn't possibly live!"

Everyone is talking in sync again. They did not want to leave anyone behind. They have a strong bond that no one can tear apart. Kyoko saw in them, worrying for the young king who valiantly wanted to stay behind. If one stayed behind, they will stay behind as well. This is the strong bond that Kyoko saw between. She couldn't help but feel envious for their friendship. "Everyone, go!" Kyoko suddenly yelled, no longer taking anymore of this. "You believe in them, right! You told me Millerna. They got out of Zaibach safely right? If they can get out of this, they can also get out this too!"

"Kyoko…" Millerna said, observing Kyoko with her keen eyes.

"Besides," she continued, turning away. "I don't want to stay in a place like this…"

Everyone looked at each other, surprised with Kyoko's words. At first, Millerna looked at everyone with a reluctant look in her eyes. She did not like this idea of leaving Van and Hitomi behind. She looked towards Van to see a determined look in his eyes, expressing to Millerna that she should trust him. No one knew that Van held such resolve in his eyes before, considering he always covered his emotions with the usual stern look to mask it away. With one nod, Millerna stood up.

"Van, you better come out of this alive or I will NEVER FORGIVE you!" She turned to Allen. "Come on…"

With one nod, Allen looked back at Van and patted his shoulder. With a single smile, he dashed off with everyone else. Van slightly smiled as everyone went off. Slowly, he looked down at Hitomi and placed a hand on her cheek lovingly. "I'm sorry Hitomi," he whispered, gathering her frail body into his arms. "IF only I wasn't so blind…"

He carefully stood up, carrying Hitomi in his arms. Van slowly turned to the seal, closing his eyes in concentration. "You'll never give up, can you?" Van suddenly said out loud in the quiet room. "You won't give up until you get what you want…"

Van's eyes rapidly opened, narrowing angrily. In front of Van, a black mist started to appear, taking in the shape of its original form from before. The demon's eyes daintily appeared, breathing haggardly. "Killl….power…Atlantis…World…"

"You can no longer speak, can you?"

Meanwhile, Allen, Dryden, and the girls ran through the dark hallways, avoiding everything as much as possible so they would not get hurt. Just as they exited the premises, they stood before a cloudy blue sky. Altantis and its once beautiful cityscape are no longer there.

"Why…not…kill yourself…! The person you loved…no longer lives…!"

Van looked at down at Hitomi. "Even so…I know she's still with me…and I know she wants me to keep living." A flash of white appeared before the demon's eyes as large, white wings appeared from Van's back, furling towards the blue sky. "This ends now!"

The demon hurled his last, powerful magic he could muster, swirling towards Van like a turbulent tornado. With his strength, Van hurled one at him, the white magic smiting through his enemies' powers like a shooting star. Instantly, the white magic consumed the demon. With that, the demon disappeared forever.

The entire temple began to tremble the moment the demon disappeared, crumbling into nothingness. Van remained where he stood, gazing at Hitomi with a look of sadness in his eyes. Even if the world is safe from harm, Van isn't happy. Hitomi passed away right in his very arms. Because of this mess they went through, they faced the consequence. Hitomi gave her life willingly to save everyone, especially him.

He hugged her to him, tears falling from his eyes. "Hitomi, I know that nothing could ever bring you back…"

Allen looked down to see that floor of the temple began to disintergrate quickly. He turned to the group and ordered them to go back. Before they could even take another step, the path that led into the temple disappeared as well. Dryden, who was at the rear, stopped when saw the path disappeared. They backed into each other closely to the only platform they were standing on. Bit-by-bit, the floor disintegrated around them. Just as the last remains crumbled before the groups' feet, they closed their eyes, waiting for them to fall. But, that feeling of falling didn't pass their minds. They looked around and saw something extraordinary. A white light suddenly surrounded then, causing them to float in the blue sky.

"IF…if there is one chance," Van said, gazing intently into her face. "More than anything…I want to say the words I couldn't utter to you back then. I want you to be forever in my life…"

Allen looked around, finding everyone floating and safe from harm. In an instant, the white light that protected them disappeared and he found himself back in the Mystic Valley, where the Crusade landed. Magnificently, just as the group gathered together, the Crusade was fixed and ready to go. Gaddes immediately went up to Allen and discuss this sudden miracle.

Merle looked away from the reunited crew and gazed at the sky, wishing with all her might that Van and Hitomi come out safely. Millerna stood beside the cat and prayed for the safety of their two friends as well. She wouldn't be happy if they died.

"Hitomi, it was you, huh?" Merle asked. "You never stop looking out for us, right?"

Van closed his eyes, his lips inching close to Hitomi. "It may be too late. But, this is all I could do to repay you…" A single tear dropped gently on Hitomi's face. Everything around Van suddenly stopped. Silence filled the entire room. The world no longer mattered the moment his lips touched Hitomi's. "I love you…" is what he whispered passionately to Hitomi before he sealed his undying love to Hitomi with a single, affectionate kiss.

The moment Van's lips met Hitomi's, a warm light surrounded the two. Van immediately saw this as he felt the warm light consume him. Suddenly, the coldness he felt on Hitomi instantly dispersed, and her comfortable warmth replaced it. Her skin began to color. A gold aura surrounded her as everything in her frail body is returning to normal.

Finally, the warmth died down as Van removed his lips from Hitomi, leaning his head onto Hitomi. He didn't notice that there is a slight movement coming from her.

"Mmm…" a moan was heard, making Van instantly react. Immediately, Van looked at her face to see that her healthy color returned.

"V…" Van anticipated, holding his breath. "V-Van…"

Her eyes slowly opened from her deep slumber as she gazed upon the first thing she saw: Van. The moment her vision returned to normal, she reached over to his cheek and placed her hand over it, touching it lovingly. "Y-y-you're…you're warm…" she said. Van simply smiled and placed his hand over hers. "You're…okay…"she said. "Thank goodness." She tried to hold back her tears, but she find she couldn't. He wiped away her tears gently.

No words spoke between them as the two looked at each other. That sweet moment, however, was broken when the whole entire temple caught their attention. Van looked down to see the floor crumbled under his feet. Van immediately stretched his wings and flapped with his might with Hitomi in his arms.

"Captain!" cried the Crusade members as they rejoiced over the gang's arrival. "You're all okay!" Allen smiled, relieved that he was back on Gaea again. "Yes, we managed to get out somehow. How is the Crusade?"

"You're not gonna believe this, Captain, but the ship…it magically fixed! I don't know what happened, but we'll be able to return to Fanelia in no time!" Gaddes said happily.

Allen smiled as his whole crew cheered, making future plans to drink and party all night long. Slowly, his eyes averted to the sky, with a hopeful look in his eyes. "Van…Hitomi…"

The cheers soon died down within five minutes as Allen and the crew joined in with Merle and Millerna, waiting for the young couple to appear from the sky. Kyoko watched observantly from behind. She noticed that their eyes were filled with belief. Minutes had gone by, but time did not bother them. They waited patiently.

Suddenly, a white light lightened the sky, making the stars seem dull compared to the light. In a second, an angel came out of the white light, holding a young woman in his arms.

Merle excitedly ran to them as she waved to them. "Van-sama! Hitomi!" Everyone ran with her as relief passed on their faces. Van smiled as he saw everyone ran to them. With one beat of his wings, he flew to them. Hitomi looked at her friends, livid and happy.

Van landed a few meters in front of the crew, carefully setting Hitomi on her two feet. Millerna immediately embraced the two when she managed to catch up. "Thank goodness! You two are all right!" Millerna cried, hugging Hitomi hard.

Everyone, except Kyoko who was lagging along (but, was looking at the couple intently), ran to them, expressing how worried they were and how glad the two were all right. Both Hitomi and Van smiled as the greeted each and everyone. Along the way, for a brief moment, Hitomi and Van's eyes connected. Something radiated between the two and Kyoko noticed that connection in a brief moment. Something in the back of Kyoko's mind was telling her that she was on the losing side.

It is a warm, beautiful day when Hitomi opened her eyes after a restful sleep. The windows were open to let in the cool breeze to cool herself from the mildly warm weather. Hitomi took this moment of peace to relax and gaze up the ceiling, eyes dazed with wonder.

It had been a week now since their major escape, with Van guiding her back to their friends with his majestical wings, surprising everyone as they burst out of the sky, surrounded in white light, and landed right in front of them. A lot happened after that. Van and herself, while traveling back to Fanelia, took this time to rest their weary bodies without any disturbance from anyone except Millerna. Hitomi remembered how Millerna explicitly warned Gaddes not bother Van or her since he most likely wanted Van to join in on their celebration.

Hitomi smiled and remembered those days on the Crusade, listening to the crew party themselves out until they have to go back to help after Allen's intrusion. Slowly, she turned to her side as she took a deep breath. Even though she remembered the past events, she couldn't help but feel like something was missing. Hitomi asked Millerna about what happened after she blacked out. Millerna said that nothing happened to her, although the princess's eyes told Hitomi something else. But, she let that slide since Hitomi knew Millerna did not want to talk about then. Hitomi considered the subject as touchy. No one seemed to talk about it.

Aside from that, Hitomi managed to get a full time rest. Most of the time, she slept through the entire trip, once in a while to get up to eat something with Millerna's and Merle's help. Occasionally, during the day or night, she would feel someone close by her, making her feel warm and protected as she slept. She was probably dreaming about that. But, it felt so real to her. It reminded her of Van.

"Van," Hitomi whispered. "I wonder what he's been doing?" She hasn't seen him for a while. Maybe he is currently dealing with business with his advisors after all he is king. Or maybe, he's with Kyoko as Hitomi continues to lie down here on her mind.

That's right, Hitomi wondered as pain coursed through her heart. Van is normal again, probably better than before. Life is back to normal. Van will continue to make the plans for his wedding. Nothing will halt that wedding. Hitomi knows that she shouldn't think negatively right now because of her health. But, because of that thought, she couldn't help, but feel like this. "There's nothing much here now," Hitomi whispered to herself. "I already finished what I was supposed to do. I saw everyone, confessed to Van, and see everyone is alright." Hitomi closed her eyes, knowing that this is her only choice. She knew she would regret this, but she must do this.

"I guess it's time for me to go…"

Somewhere in the palace, the advisors have all gathered in the huge advising room, loud noises of their chatter springing the once quiet room to life. Before much chattering would go further, the large doors slowly opened. Immediately, everyone stood from their seats and bowed their heads.

"Welcome back, Lord Van!" everyone greeted warmly.

In front of the open doors, Van stood valiantly, draped in his royal clothes that consisted of a red Aikido Keikogi with red and gold embroideries on the edges, tucked firmly in a pair of his white Hakama pants. Tucked in his belt was his royal sword. With one nod to acknowledge their greeting, Van began to walk. Right behind him was Allen, dressed in his blue Knight of Caeli uniform with his sword that hung on his side. With that, Van sat himself in his seat at the head of the table. Once Van sat, his advisors tool their seats.

"It is great to see all of you," began Van as he firmly placed his elbows on the table. "I am sorry for my absences…"

"It is quite all right, your majesty, as long as you are well…"

"Now," he said. "Please tell me what has happened while I was away…"

For the next hour, issues have arrived about Fanelia and its people. The advisors discussed various problems that are somewhat trivial and somewhat unnecessary. They argued amongst each other about the problem and made the unnecessary problems seem big and important. During their quarrel, Van listened intently, joining in the argument to settle down his raging advisors, since his role at this point was simply a pacifier between the two opposing sides. After hearing out one problem from each advisor, they instantly solved it and moved on.

The session became long and tedious as Van find himself agitated by this whole meeting. He noticed that some of the advisors' arguments to persuade the whole advisors to agree were continuously repeating their conclusion each time to make it seem strong and compelling when some of the advisors asked some questions. Most of the advisors thought that most the arguments were strong. Van, on other hand, didn't seem to like it, seeing through their façade of their plans. Van also noticed that the issues that they addressed should have been done by now. They were done in a matter of minutes. Van wondered if they ever dealt with these issues in his absences. Van keenly stopped one of his advisors from talking as he sensed another petty problem that should have been done a long time ago when he mentioned something about the farmers. He simply eyed the advisor with his trademark poker face and made him quiet for a while.

Another hour had passed and his advisors still dragged on in the petty arguments. Van wondered how his father get used to this. Judging by Van's older brother's reaction to becoming the next king, most definitely his father would be ignoring them and think of something different like he is right now. Van thought he should get new advisors. They're getting too old and they're beginning to sound like broken "records." Hitomi used that phrase once when she noticed that one person in one of the meetings during the Great War was repeating himself. Van knew what she was saying. And he gladly agreed about the phrase, although he doesn't know what a record was. He eyed Allen with a look that read, "This is Ridiculous!" Allen tried to strain his laughter after Van gave him that look. Allen simply shrugged in his response to Van's reaction, signaling that, "Without you, they go in a frenzy…" And so, the meeting continued like this until noon.

"And that is why we must concern ourselves with the utilities for the guymelefs," said one advisor, after making a remarkable speech that awed everyone. Van wanted to groan. Another begging the question came about. Van secretly wrote down to deal with this man later. Much less he didn't even did his research on the guymelefs. They were already taken care of with Allen's help of course. In fact, most of the problems they discussed were already discussed and solved by the people and samurai themselves. His people weren't that weak to rely on the council and themselves unless there was a situation that cannot solve alone.

"Now that we have all the issues addressed to you and solved them, your highness. Let us begin to discuss the upcoming wedding at hand…" The advisors seemed more alive than the hour before as the subject of wedding came into the front. Everyone are all talking at once, proudly pointing out their important tasks they made to make this hopeful wedding a success. Van froze the moment the advisors mentioned the word "wedding." Allen instantly saw the discomfort in Van's eyes and made his move to stop this immediately. But, Van seized him and let the advisors talk.

"Everything is according to plan, your highness," said an advisor to Van's left, who was appointed the main coordinator of the wedding with a proud smile.

"Yes, we are so thrilled that you decided to marry. We were quite worried that you wouldn't, considering you had eyes on Lady Hitomi."

"The past events should open your eyes, your Highness. You were near death and we would have a country with no ruler."

"That is why it is convenient that you should get married in a sooner date. Who knows what may happen to you in the long run."

The advisors immediately talked again. Van sighed as he stood and looked through the window. This is going to be more complicated than he thought. "You know, you should tell them, Van," said Allen, who stood next to him as the advisors continued to talk without them noticing their King's turned back. "You decided that this is for the best."

"I know, Allen," Van said. With one sigh to boost his confidence, Van turned back to his advisors. "About the wedding," Van began out loud, causing everyone to stop all at once. "I've decided…to break off the engagement."

Once he made his announcement known to the group of advisors, silence immediately followed. Each and every person is looking at him as if he gone mad. Then, they decide to look at each other, especially the coordinator, who almost looks like he is about to get a heart attack.

"Highness! Are you serious?" asked one advisor.

"Yes," Van started. "Although Kyoko wanted to move the wedding sooner, I decided to call off the engagement."

"But, highness. All this planning and thinking we've been doing…"

"I can't go on with the wedding," Van said. "I can't. It took me so long to realize that I still love her. I still love Hitomi…"

"Highness…"

"I talked this with Kyoko a few days back about this. I couldn't possibly marry her when I don't love her…"

"But, we presume that you loved her, considering the closeness you shared…"

"I was lying to myself," he said. "No one could replace Hitomi…no matter how close the personality is or how close she looked like."

"It is sad to hear that you decided this, highness, but how did Kyoko-san take it?"

Millerna walked pleasantly down the west wing of the Fanelian palace. She is on her way to check on Hitomi to see everything is all right with her, considering the period of rest Hitomi taken. Millerna smiled broadly. She is glad Hitomi is fine and well. Just as she is near Hitomi's quarters, Millerna spotted someone looking out through the window, with the recognizable dark brown hair Millerna knew so well. Right there sat Kyoko, starring off dazedly.

Millerna sighed once she spotted Kyoko there. Taking in a brave step, Millerna walked towards her. She was definitely near Hitomi's room and she did not want Hitomi to stress any longer. She took in a few steps when Millerna suddenly stopped. The eyes that usually stare at each person with disdain was not there. That expression seizes to exist as distress passed her features. This kind of distress is not fabricated in Kyoko's own style. Something about that emotion is…different, not like before.

Millerna finally made it and stood next to Kyoko. She joined in her sight looking towards Fanelia city, enjoying the silence they had between them. For a while, the girls stayed as they are, watching every speck walking in the huge city, doing whatever they need to finish their own tasks.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" Millerna spoke suddenly, breaking the silence between them as she looked at the city with admiration. Kyoko's eyes widened for a brief moment until it returned to its dazed state.

"W-what?" Kyoko replied. "O-of course the city is beautiful. You don't have to point it out to me…"

"No," Millerna said bluntly. "The love between Van and Hitomi…" Slowly, Millerna averted her amethyst eyes towards her, seriousness in her eyes. "At that incident, after we left, something changed in you, just after you saw Van and Hitomi coming down from the sky. You were surprised when Hitomi was alive and well…as if nothing happened to her." Kyoko looked away from Millerna's remark.

"I-I…don't know what you are talking-"

"Don't deny it!" Millerna yelled. "Kyoko, your eyes are the windows to your soul." Millerna paused, gathering up her thoughts. "What do you have against Hitomi anyways? She didn't do anything to you." Once again, Kyoko remained silent, turning away so she can avoid answering the question.

Millerna sighed and started walking to Hitomi's room. Her reaction was correct. Millerna knew she would recoil like this. "Before I leave, there is one thing I must tell you." Slowly, Millerna turned her head, eyes lightened with passion and determination, a look that matches the looks of royalties' impenetrable faces. "Whatever you are trying to do, stop this nonsense right now! You can never win with your heart as it is right now. The bond they share can never be broken. Back off while you still can." With that, Millerna walked passed her, leaving Kyoko alone to think about Millerna's words.

A knock was heard through Hitomi's door. Hitomi looked up before packing the rest of her stuff. She opened the door to reveal Millerna and her smiling face. "Hitomi!" Millerna beamed, holding a batch of freshly cut apples in a simply basket. "How are you doing?"

Hitomi smiled and let Millerna in, thankful for some company. "I'm good. I'm still a bit weak in the legs though."

"At least you are better than the last few days," Millerna stated, setting the apples on one of tables. "That's why I brought some apples for you. Hopefully these would bring you back to your normal strength."

"An apple a day keeps the doctor away, ne?" Hitomi asked when she eyed the apples.

"Did you say something?" asked Millerna.

"Oh, it's nothing. Just a phrase I learned back at home." After setting the small basket down, Millerna eyed Hitomi carefully as she packed her stuff in an organized fashion. Sadly, Millerna turned away and looked out the closed balcony doors to see a beautiful, warm day. Millerna felt sympathy for Hitomi. She had been through so many things and she did not get rewarded because of that.

Hitomi placed the last item in her duffle bag and sighed. The sooner she leaves, the better. This was what she decided for Van's benefit and hers. She wouldn't take it if she stayed and saw Van getting married.

"Are you leaving because you think its better this way?" Millerna suddenly asked, causing Hitomi to stop in midair. "You think by returning back home would solve the problem? Van would be devastated if you left so suddenly without telling him goodbye…"

Hitomi closed her eyes sadly. She knew she was risking it, but she can't be in the way of his happiness. "I know, but what's the use?" Hitomi said her thoughts outloud. "I would be causing him to hold back. I-"

"You think that Kyoko is better for him?" Millerna asked angrily. Hitomi looked away from the princess' eyes, nodding her head to answer her question. Millerna sighed once again. "Hitomi, don't rush out on things so quickly. All you're doing is running away from the inevitable."

"Why would I run away? I am not," Hitomi said defiantly. "Van's in love with her, Millerna. He no longer holds that feeling towards me."

This sparked Millerna's curiosity. Back then, Van did admit his love for her. She had a hunch. What else would explain when Hitomi suddenly come back to life? Van loved Hitomi so much that he brought her back to life by brining a miracle that brought her to life. "Do you remember anything?" Millerna asked.

Hitomi's eyes frowned a bit, confused by Millerna's sudden question. "Remember what?"

Millerna nodded her head unconsciously. "So this explains why she's acting the way she is," Millerna whispered to herself.

"The only thing I remembered, if you're referring to that day, was passing out. The last thing I remembered was seeing Van's healthy face." Hitomi put the last article into her duffle bag and zipped it up, making sure nothing was hanging out of the bag. Slowly, she sat up, lifting the duffle bag strap with her two hands and setting it on the bed. "Although," Hitomi said thoughtfully, "I do remember something warm and comforting. Like that warmth. It's telling me that everything will be all right. And it's like telling me that someone in the future will love me…" Hitomi dazedly smiled as she walked towards the balcony, hugging herself. "I don't know. It felt so familiar though…"

Millerna nodded her head and stood up. "I can't really change your mind since you are stubborn as an ox, but, you must really reconsider Hitomi. There is more to the situation than you think." With one pat on Hitomi's shoulder, Millerna head towards the door. "But, one thing remains Hitomi, Van will always have you special in his heart. " Hitomi looked Millerna, eyes widened with surprise. Millerna simply smiled encouragingly. "I know, I can see it right through his eyes." With that, Millerna closed the door, leaving Hitomi to think about it.

"It was a mutual agreement between us," Van stated. "I've decided it was best for us to go our separate paths." After thirty minutes talking about the sudden cancellation of the engagement, the advisors were finally satisfied with their answer and Van adjourned the meeting. Van and Allen remained in the room.

"Your advisors are not considerate at all," Allen said after they left. "They do not realize themselves that you are straining yourself to the edge to keep Fanelia in tact. I've noticed that they never solved any the problems since we left. They should learn to be considerate and let you have your freedom."

"Even so, they are advisors," Van said as he stood up from his seat. "It's in their nature to be inconsiderate and persistent. I just go with the flow and fire those that are incompetent. I think that's how my father dealt with them."

"Is Kyoko okay with this?" asked Allen.

Van closed his eyes. "I'm not sure, but when I decided to break it off, her eyes looked…emotionless. I couldn't read her thoughts and she simply left without much of a say…"

Allen is surprised after what Van said. Kyoko would be angry if an issue like this came in. What could possibly lie in that façade of hers? "And you say a mutual agreement? You liar."

Van shrugged his shoulders. "It was a spur of the moment. That's all I can come up with. How else can I put it?"

Allen sighed and nodded his head. Van did have a point. After all, how can anyone read a person with an emotionless face? He very well knew this since he sometimes can't read Van when he puts on his emotionless mask. "Anyways, there is something that you, and you alone, must take care of, Van," said Allen, looking at Van's reflection in the window. Van nodded his head understandingly.

Towards the end of the hallway, Kyoko stood before a huge window near her room, looking at the sky as the sun slowly went down. At this time, Kyoko would be doing her own thing to grab anyone's attention in the castle, whether it be something simple, pointless, and completely absurd. But not now. There were important matters to think about rather than those trivial things. "So…it's all over then," Kyoko wondered absentmindedly. "Everything I did was for nothing. They're still together, whether they think so or not. What am I going to do now?" Suddenly, fear consumed her, replacing her sad eyes with anger and shock. "No! I can't! I can't let this end! I won't give up until she never comes here again! I won't let her happy ending come if I still don't have mine!" Kyoko set off in search for Van, hoping it's not too late.

It was almost midnight when Hitomi looked out of her balcony to look at the beautiful city one last time. If she was going to leave this place, she was going to leave without anyone seeing her off. This was the only way to lessen the pain. If she were to see Van, she wouldn't take it. It hurts too much. Hitomi clenched the strap of her duffle bag. She turned back to the city, a lone tear spilling from her eyes. "Goodbye, everyone," she whispered to the peaceful country. "Goodbye, Van…"

She wiped away a tear that was coming out. She will leave this place with a strong heart. She kept her mind to not think of any regret. She took a glimpse of Fanelia one more time before darting out of her room.

It was a very warm night, with the Mystic Moon shining brilliantly under the starry, clear sky when Hitomi made it through the gardens. She planned to take the back way so no would notice her. She knew that the guards wouldn't be out in that area until an hour passed midnight. She looked carefully from her hiding place to see no one was there. So, she ran across the path as quietly as possible. She was closing in to the back fence when she passed by the beautiful lake that was sparkling under the Mystic Moon. She continued to run until she suddenly halted when a glowing feather flew in front of her. She kneeled down and slowly picked it up, feeling its warm and fuzzy exterior in her palm. She never had seen a feather glow like this, unless it's a feather from Van's wings. Suddenly, Hitomi's mind dawned.

"Are you going without saying goodbye?" Hitomi froze the moment she heard that voice, deep and nostalgic in the peaceful and quiet atmosphere. She knew that voice. Slowly, she turned around. Sitting on one of the lone rocks near the shores of the lake, Van sat there, looking out towards the lake, with his wings stretched out into the sky, glowing in sync with the sparkling lake, adding more beauty to the entire garden.

Hitomi turned away, dread filling her heart. She wanted to leave without Van noticing. Somehow, in the depths of her heart, she knew this was going to happen. From where she was standing, she could hear Van set his feet onto the grassy area, crunching as he walked towards her. She stiffened when she felt his warmth inching closer to hers. She refrain herself from turning to him. She didn't want to see his face or she will break down.

"I've been looking everywhere for you," he began. "I was worried that you might still be a little ill…"

"I'm fine," she stated bluntly, even though she was lying. "I am not going to face him. It hurts…"

Silence fell between them. Neither one of them knew what to tell each other.

"Why?" Van asked suddenly, hurt and sadness in his voice. "Why would you leave without saying goodbye?"

Hitomi could feel that Van was eyeing her duffle bag during the awkward silence between them. She knew she shouldn't underestimated Van. He could read her like a book. "So, it wouldn't hurt as much," she replied.

"So it wouldn't hurt as much, huh?" repeated Van. "So then, if you leave, that's it? You just came and went?"

"Because I finished what I needed to do here. I saw everyone and finished rescuing you. There isn't much need for me here…"

"Because you finished whatever your vision told you? Hitomi, cut that out! Stop acting like you are teenager again! I know you didn't come here just so you can get over that vision of yours!" Hitomi cut short out of spite of Van's angry voice. "You wanted to see everyone and me, right!" Van continued to walk towards her.

Of course Hitomi wanted to see everyone. She especially wanted to see Van and be near him. She wanted more than anything to be embraced in his strong arms and be able to tell him that she loved him every single moment. But she can't anymore. That dream died the moment she found out he was engaged to Kyoko. Hitomi could feel the tears well up in the corners of her eyes. She was losing control.

"It's fine and dandy that you came to save me. And I am grateful for it! But, aren't you running away? We're still not finish! We still need to deal with one problem!" Van was in arms length now. He reached for her, trying to embrace her in his arms to tell her how he felt. But before he could even touch her, she went further away from him, her back still towards him.

"Problem? What problem! There is no problem that was left unfinished," Hitomi said stubbornly. She started to run away, hoping she would reach the back gates in time.

"No, there is one problem we need to solve!" Van yelled. "It's about us!" Hitomi suddenly stopped when she heard that sentence.

Van noticed how abrupt her stop was when he spoke of their problem. He knew he caught her attention. With one courageous sigh, he slowly walked towards her. "Do you think by leaving the things the way they are is okay to be left unsolved? There is so much we need to talk about, especially between us. I know that we haven't talked one-on-one in a while, but now is our chance. And I wanted to talk you about us for a while now." Van was near her again. But, he didn't make a move to gather in her arms. He knows that she would run away again if he did that. "It took me so long to realize this. I didn't realize then because I was busy with the responsibilities pushed onto me and dealing with the illness I had." He clasped her necklace in his right hand, looking it sparkling under the moonlight. "I just wanted to say that-"

"Van, please," Hitomi said. Hitomi's heart was telling her that she needed to end this problem before she left. She needed to set everything right again so everyone can move on. "Don't make this harder than it already is." She looked up at the stars, hoping to give her the courage she needed to end this without anyone getting hurt. "You love Kyoko Van. She's the one you hold special to your heart now. I am simply a person from the past who is ruining everything from you attaining happiness. It's true, I wasn't here because of some vision. I was here because I had the chance to see you again." She paused as she clasped her heart with her hand, tears threatening to spill out. "But, what's the point of me staying here? I am no longer needed."

"Hitomi, you know it's not true…"

"Please, Van. For once, don't be stubborn. Let me go, Van, please. It's the best for us."

Van simply ran out of words by the time Hitomi finally finished what she had to say. She was willing to sacrifice everything so he can be happy. He looked at the ground sadly. He knew Hitomi would not back down when she made a final decision. But, doesn't she realize his feelings? It seemed harsh considering Hitomi would not let him have a say on this. Van nodded his head in confirmation. If she decided on this, then so be it. Slowly, he reached his arms to her and suddenly wrapped them around her shoulders, squeezing her tightly to his front, his bangs covering his left eye, making him look majestic under the beautiful nightlight.

Hitomi was surprised when she felt him passionately wrapped his arms around her and squeezed her to him. Is he willing to give up and let her go? Hitomi finally let her tears come in. She will regret this one day. But this was for the best for them.

"Hitomi," Van began as he leaned his chin on the top of her head. "Do you think by saying that and leaving the things the way they are would solve anything? Do you think I would be okay with it?" Suddenly, Hitomi's eyes widened when she realized the meaning behind his words. "Hitomi, you're wrong. I need you…more than anything in the world…" Slowly, Van gently turned her around so he can see her face. He could see right in her eyes that she was pained by this as much as he was. "The only person that ever make me feel like this is you Hitomi. If you leave, I wouldn't be able to see again. I wouldn't have a chance to talk to you and speak my unspoken words."

The duffle bag around Hitomi's shoulder suddenly dropped, landing lankly on the grassy ground. His warmth, his scent; everything was settling in now that she saw his face. Now she wouldn't be able to go on without looking back. Everything about him was driving her insane. "Even if I said that, you wouldn't even stay, would you?" Hitomi looked down with guilt. She won't back out on her decision. Her decision was final.

Van took that as her answer. With a sad sigh, he hugged her passionately again, leaning his head on her shoulder so his lips were near her ear. He held her as if this was his last day of living in this world. "Hitomi, there is one thing I must tell before you go. I promise this would be the last time I will say anything to you. I want to leave these words to you…" Van remembered lividly a phrase that Hitomi taught him once. She remembered her saying that these words were rarely spoken out nowadays. She said this word was very affectionate if one person said to another. This would sign that the person was truly devoted to the person they love and want to spend the rest of their life with.

Slowly, he lifted himself from her shoulders and deeply looked into her eyes. He surprised her by closing in to her, his lips a millimeter away from hers. "Hitomi…" he whispered huskily. "Aishiteru…"

With that, Van filled in the space between them and kissed her like no other. Hitomi's heart erratically throbbed against her ribcage, feeling the heat surrounding her. She was never kissed like this before, passionate and deep as it was. Hitomi finds herself relaxing into his kiss, closing her eyes as she finally kissed him back, pouring out the locked out emotions of her heart into this very kiss. Hitomi knew the underlying between that phrase. And caught her dead with shock when he said so affectionately that it almost made her heart and mind burst. Van deeply loves her. Slowly, Van broke the kiss and gazed at her adoringly. The expression he wore heightened his already handsome features, causing Hitomi's heart to stir again.

"Van…" Hitomi whispered his name softly before Van placed his lips on her again, more deep and passionate than the first. Hitomi couldn't explain this feeling as she was surprised by Van's affection. She felt dizzy with pleasure and her soul felt refreshed and complete. Her mind no longer donned the fact that Van never will love her. Her mind no longer thought about running away. All she can think about was Van and their love that they shared.

Hitomi could feel him hugging her closer to him, adding the intensity of the kiss that almost made her faint. It was right in that moment that Hitomi felt the same warmth she felt before she completely blacked out on that day. She now realized the connection between that warmth and the warmth Van projected. Hitomi wanted to cry. Van loved her, no matter what.

Van moved away from her lips and kissed down her neck as Van continued to show her his love. Before long, Hitomi couldn't describe how Van showed her his love that night. All she knew that it was him and her, expressing what they feel.

Kyoko stood by the now closed doors of her room, baffled out of her mind.

"Aishiteru…" was the words she heard when she happened to pass by the gardens. She was looking for Van, hoping to talk him out of his decision about breaking the engagement. She was desperate as ever and looked for him everywhere since the afternoon, skipping dinner in the process. Kyoko decided to take a break. Since he was nowhere to found, she decided to retire her search and talk to him during breakfast, hoping he still had the decision to change his mind. She happened to be walking along the path in the gardens back to the east wing, where her bedroom was located. She took this path as a shortcut so she would be able to reach her bedroom. When she was passing by the lake, behind the trees, her eyes cut through the trees that blocked her view and saw them, oddly close. After hearing that strange word she couldn't understand, her eyes widened as saucers when she saw them close the gap between them. Kyoko was about to barge in when she saw the two in an intimate embrace.

After ten seconds, they broke apart. Kyoko noticed the intense look in Van's eyes. Even though she was far away, Kyoko could see something different in them. He looked free, as if nothing was restraining him back from completely being himself. This was not the Van she come to know during their times together. When he looked at her, he seemed confused and uneasy, as if something was restraining from becoming his full self. He wasn't really affectionate. But, when she compared her moments with Van with this moment, Van looked happy. He looked at Hitomi lovingly, the look she can never get from him. They were embracing intimately again as if there was no tomorrow, with his wings closing in, covering them.

That moment laid imprinted in Kyoko's mind. She was surprised that she didn't bother breaking the moment and scolded Van endlessly. But, for some reason, she couldn't bring herself to after witnessing the look he projected in his eyes. "Van…you really do love her, don't you?" she asked herself in her room. Kyoko realized, no, she knew all along that she was on the losing side, despite her attempts in changing Van's heart. Millerna was right. Their bond can never be broken.

Hitomi could still feel that night that she shared with Van. There were no boundaries and interferences that would make them refrain from expressing themselves wholly. That perfect moment remained in Hitomi's mind. Even when Hitomi woke up the next morning, the memories are not too distant from her mind. When Hitomi opened her eyes, it was still dark, although it the color of the sky slowly begins to change into a light lavender color that a new day will come.

Hitomi sat on her side, watching the sky through the balcony window to see that little shift color in the night sky. During her time looking at the sky, she thought about how splendid she slept. She never had one good sleep. Now, she felt like she can start off the day by running or doing something that would satisfy her energized self. After another few moments of looking out into the balcony windows, she decided to take in her surroundings. Oddly, her mind did not register anything familiar to her. The stuff in the room seemed different. The furniture is positioned differently, with the entrance much farther from the bed than she thought. She looked for the doors to the bathroom. She looked at the ceiling. Shouldn't she be in her room?

Suddenly, a small movement from her right side immediately reminded her where she is. With that, Hitomi smiled and turned to that movement fondly. Slightly above her is Van, sleeping peacefully beside her as his arms slightly wounded Hitomi. He is slightly snoring, his breath tickling the side of Hitomi's neck. His long bangs, that usually covered his left eye, now covered his right eye, making him look like he is a little boy again. Hitomi couldn't help but swipe the hair away from his eyes with a gentle movement with hands. She wanted to laugh since she never seen Van like this. But, she decided not to since looked adorable.

Slowly, as she continued to look at Van, her thoughts rounded to the night before again. She would never forget last night. They promised they will never tell anyone of this special moment. Van's love, even while he sleeps, radiates brightly around her. She would always remember.

Hitomi's mouth suddenly felt parched. Hitomi decided to grab a drink before going back to sleep again. She slowly sat up, making sure she didn't wake Van. At first, Hitomi seemed reluctant. She knew that would have a hard time since Van will probably tighten his hold around her. But, his arms fell to the soft bed. Hitomi knew that Van must be tired since he is a king. But, she never expected him to be this tired. She shrugged her shoulders and stood from the bed, grabbing for the nearest robe, and set out to the kitchen.

During her little trip to the kitchen, Hitomi's mind was still in cloud nine. Her mind was wrapped up that she did not realize the faint sounds of footsteps coming her way. Hitomi finally heard the footsteps when it was near her hearing range and enough to break her out of her thoughts. Cautiously, Hitomi stopped. After she stopped, the footsteps also stopped. Blinking, Hitomi took another few steps just to be sure as she stood under one of the huge windows, her form basking under the now lavender sky. The footsteps also dared a few steps. Right in front of Hitomi, shrouded in the dimness of the hallway, was Kyoko, who was surprised to see Hitomi.

"Kyoko," said Hitomi. This was totally unexpected for Hitomi. She was definitely reluctant to talk to the her, considering the pass events they went through. Hitomi did not even know if she should greet her good morning or simply give her a nod and go on her way. Hitomi thought that maybe this would be a great chance to have a civil conversation with her, maybe to patch things up between them. Before Hitomi could open her mouth, Kyoko gave her a cold stare.

"What do you want?" Kyoko asked harshly, averting her eyes from Hitomi after she gave Hitomi her usual cold stare.

"N-nothing really. I was wondering why you are here at this hour," Hitomi said.

"Well, it's none of your business!" Kyoko spat. "It's my freedom! I can do whatever I want!"

Hitomi winced. "So much for a civil conversation," Hitomi thought. Silence fell between them after Kyoko said her bit, both opposite girls reluctant to say to each other.

"I can never win, can I?" Hitomi looked at her, surprised. "Why does everyone favor you all the time? I can't understand it!" Kyoko turned to her, glowering at her with all the hate she can muster. "You know, I despise you!"

Hitomi wasn't surprised. She all ready knew that Kyoko hates her. And yet, Hitomi can never understand why Kyoko grown so much hatred towards her when all Hitomi did nothing to her. Hitomi thought it was inhumanely impossible for someone to have such hatred in his or her hearts.

"I wish you didn't save the world!" Kyoko continued, gripping the sides of her dress tightly in her hands. "My life was ruined when you decided to jump in and turn everything upside down." She paused for a moment as she gazed out into the window, trying to keep her temper at bay by taking in breathes. "Ever since the war ended, everyone's attention came to you. Even my own parents have their attention to you since they always speak highly of you, even though they never met you. Before you, I had it all. Everyone praises me for being me. Everyone always have their attention on me, giving me the VIP since I am from a well-known noble family back home. I'm even friends with the princess." Kyoko turned to Hitomi again. "That luxury I used to have no longer existed after you came along. Because of you, they wanted me to be perfect, like you. They wanted me to be like you, dress like you, and even cut my hair to be like you. This sudden change…I'm not sure. And my best friend back home, the only person I ever loved, rejected me because he wanted someone like you! This was the last straw. You took everything that ever made me happy. I wanted to get back at you. I wanted to make suffer what I suffered. "

Her mind began to stir. Hitomi began to feel the pattern to this conversation and she knew that whatever Kyoko was talking towards would ultimately lead Kyoko to something she would definitely regret. Hitomi clenched her fists, trying to keep her fighting spirit down.

"So, I decided to take my revenge on you by making you cry. It was so easy to know your weakness and everyone knew that you had feelings for Van. And I planned so well that Van mistakenly thinks that I am like you…"

Hitomi's entire body shook. She couldn't take this anymore! Suddenly, before Kyoko could even finish whatever ploy she decided for her revenge, Hitomi fully turned to Kyoko, causing her to suddenly stop. With one fervent move, Hitomi punched Kyoko right on her pretty face. Kyoko stumbled from the sudden impact. Her world turned dizzy and she almost fell just by looking at it. She was able to maintain her composure as she grasped her cheek. Kyoko was ready to return the favor when her eyes looked momentarily into Hitomi's. Suddenly, Kyoko knew she was in hot water. Hitomi's usual round eyes narrowed considerably, with her trademark green iris that once sparkled darkened, adding to the cold look. Kyoko was stunned.

"You. Are. Such. A. Child!" Hitomi retorted, causing Kyoko to wince. "What you are doing is so immature!" Hitomi made this time to pause, thinking of words she wanted to say to this girl. "Whatever happened to you in the past, I'm sorry! But, I couldn't help but save this world! What do you expect! Leave it alone? If I did, you wouldn't even have people giving you your attention right now!" Hitomi stepped closer, trying to make Kyoko lower herself from her huge pride and listen. "But, leading Van into your goal is downright low! I would have simply slapped you because I felt sympathy for you at fist. But, slapping you isn't good for the pain you caused him."

Hitomi decided to calm herself since she all ready scared Kyoko. Hitomi turned around to look out in the window to calm herself. "Besides, since you decided to ploy in Van in your revenge, in order to get Van to fall in love with you, you have to be like me right? Isn't that hypocritical when you said you despise me?"

Kyoko's eyes widened when that thought dawned on her mind. Slowly, she turned away, embarrassed. Hitomi sighed when she noticed that the hostility disappeared from her eyes. "Kyoko, stop blaming others for your own misfortune. Things happen. And life isn't fair all the time. Maybe your parents and your best friend probably told you to be me like because they probably don't like your personality then since you are trying so hard to grab everyone's attention by being someone else than being yourself. Maybe they were pushing you to become yourself. People simply don't do things without reason. And grabbing people's attention is not everything you know. Wouldn't family and friends be enough for you?" Hitomi smiled lightly. "All that anger came from that simple problem. And I was wondering where did all that anger come from." Hitomi smile soon disappeared. "But, one thing I am sure of, I won't let you get your way. I won't let you hurt Van…"

Hitomi's eyes passionately shown under lavender light she is in, blazing with determination and love that shocked Kyoko. Kyoko never have seen a person so livid like Hitomi. Guilt consumed her at this sudden realization. "No wonder Van loves you," Kyoko said in a soft voice. Hitomi smiled. Maybe this was the true Kyoko that lay hidden for so long. "I realized now. No. I knew all along that you two shared something so spiritual. Like soulmates. Millerna was right. I can never break the bond between you two." With one hefty sigh, she started walking off. "I give up. Everything I did was a waste of time. And you were right. I am acting childishly. I guess this is one mistake I may never repair."

As Kyoko began to walk away, Hitomi thought about the defeated words Kyoko said. Deep down, Hitomi knew Kyoko was not as bad as most people proclaimed. Kyoko was human after all and that hatred and haughtiness she had was simply to cover her own weakness.

"Kyoko," Hitomi called, causing Kyoko to stop. "Even if things seem impossible to mend, start over. This time, you have a chance to be yourself." From behind, it looked like Kyoko was thinking thoroughly about her last words. Yet, Kyoko never turned around to show Hitomi that she understood.

"Tell Van I'm sorry. Goodbye."

Hitomi watched as Kyoko faded into the darkness. Hitomi prayed, from the bottom of her heart, that Kyoko's life would change for the better.

Hitomi made her way back to Van's room after drinking her glass of water. Her mind was still on Kyoko by the time she opened the door to Van's room. Hitomi hoped that the Gods would take her side and build a better life for her. She suffered a lot, even though she did something that the Gods would not approve. She, at least, deserves happiness after much turmoil in her life now that she learned her mistakes.

Just as she slid the door shut, she noticed that Van was no longer on his bed.

"Van?" she called, turning her head to find where he must be. Hitomi looked in the bathroom, but he was not there. She wandered into every corner of his room, but he was not any of the places she looked. She turned around when she felt a little wisp of the wind behind her. She noticed the curtains were flapping when that same wind picked up. She made her way out of the balcony doors. There, she found Van looking at the sky, watching the Mystic Moon high in the sky.

"Van," she called. Van turned around and a small smile appeared on his face when he saw her.

"Hitomi…"

"What are you doing out here?" she asked, walking up to him and leaned against the rail beside him. "Shouldn't you be resting?"

He shook his head. "I usually wake up at this time to watch the sunrise," he said as leaned onto the rails with Hitomi. "Every day, the sunrise always becomes more beautiful than the last." Hitomi smiled. She knew how it felt whenever she sees the sunrise.

"Do you often do that?"

Van nodded his head. A comfortable silence fell between them as they watched the sunrise together. It was the most marvelous thing that Hitomi ever saw. And seeing it with Van added the beauty to it.

"Van," she suddenly said. "Is something wrong?"

Van sighed. "I feel guilty," he said. "It took me so long to realize how I felt. And this whole adventure…maybe…it was meant for me to realize that I was going in the wrong path. My feelings for Kyoko were merely only friendship. I thought it was love at first. But then, I don't know what love really is. I feel bad, but I guess I thought I saw you through her. I realized then that no one could ever replace you." He looked down. "I hurt you so much…"

Hitomi placed her head on his shoulder while she placed her hand on his arm to comfort him. "Don't worry about it. What passed, it passed. At least now you know where your heart lies. It's understandable that it's hard what is true love since you lived so long without experiencing that feeling. You were taught to be a great king for Fanelia and you were never taught about the matters of the heart. If only you're mother were here to help you, then maybe you would know…"

He slowly turned around and wrapped his arms around her. "I-I'm sorry…"

"Don't apologize. I know you would never hurt me." Hitomi kneeled her head against his chest, comforted by his warmth. "Besides, knowing that you love me is enough…" Van smiled. Hitomi's comforted him. She would always find a way to cheer him up and be able to find out the good points in life.

"I'm…worried though," Hitomi said suddenly after a brief moment of silence. "After this, I have to return home. You know that right?" Van nodded his head. "If I leave, there will be a chance that I won't be able to come back to this world and be with you. I'm worried that this may be the last time I get spend my time with our friends and you." Hitomi tightly hugged him to her as if her life depended upon it. "Van…I don't want to lose you forever…"

Van closed his eyes as he let his face point to the sky. His mind is reeling, trying to come up with something that would answer Hitomi's doubts. "You won't lose me," he suddenly said when his heart is in the right place. Hitomi looked at him. "Now that we know that we love each other, our feelings are truly connected. A connection that will forever stay strong." He looks into her eyes, smiling. "I'm not sure if we'll ever be together, but if we wish it with all our hearts, maybe someday we'll see each other…"

"Van…"

"Remember what I said before? Anytime we think of each other, will be able to see each other again, right?" Hitomi wanted to cry as she recalled that heartfelt meaning towards his words. "Hitomi, until our duties are done, I will find a way back to you, I promise."

Hitomi's tears finally came out. "I love you," she said waveringly. Van nodded his head, showing that he loved her by the look in his passionate eyes. He leaned in and kissed her. As their lips met, the sun rose fully from the horizon, greeting the land warmly with its rays. This is a new day.

"Hitomi!" yelled a voice that is calling to a young woman who is wearing a white, sleeveless dress under a warm day, with her long, honey-brown hair twisting when she turned to that call. On her left hand, just as she pushed some of her hair away from her face, a white gold ring with a pink, shiny gem gleamed under the beautiful light.

"Yukari! You're late!" Hitomi retorted as her best friend came up with an apologetic look on her face.

"Sorry, sorry. But Amano had trouble parking the car near the beach. You know how narrow the streets are for parking. You know how it is. Where's everyone?"

Hitomi shook her head and let that excuse slide. She knows that Yukari and Amano are lagging because she knows Yukari always do last minute shopping. As they walked towards their friends and families after going down the stairs to the sandy beach, they are waving to the two girls.

"Hitomi!"

"Hitomi! Congratulations!" Hitomi smiled at their greeting and started waving to them enthusiastically. After her wave to her family and friends, Hitomi looked up into the beautiful blue sky as she covered both her eyes to dim the brightness of the sun. "Van," she whispered out loud affectionately. "It's spring. Isn't it beautiful?"

Three years had passed since the day Hitomi parted from Van once again to return to deal with the unfinished business she must deal with. Since then, Van never left her mind. Many things had happened since then as her normal life returned to her. She worked harder and studied her best as she could. Despite her busy life, she made sure to make time to enjoy some time with her friends and family. She was doing well for a college student.

Even though Hitomi was a world apart, Hitomi always thought about Van and her friends back on Gaea. She still remembered lividly the day she left. It was a bittersweet moment between them as they said their farewell greeting to her. At least they were with her, bidding goodbye instead of being in their separate lives. She can still remember how Merle gave her a huge hug and never let her go until Hitomi needed to breath. She still remembered she gave her congratulations to Allen and Eries, who were a couple during her stay there. She also remembered that she gave her congratulations to Millerna and Dryden for getting married again. Hitomi envied Millerna because of her engagement ring that shone brightly under the sunny, beautiful day.

Most of all, Hitomi could still remember the moment when Van and her had one last kiss. Van surprised her as he gave her a promise ring that she is wearing now. She truly missed Van. But she kept her hopes high, knowing that she will see him again.

"Hey Hitomi," said Yukari, who is looking at something near the shores of the sea. They are just preparing for their annual celebration. "Who is that?"

Hitomi was in the middle of putting down the plates when Yukari asked her. She looked at where Yukari was looking at to find someone standing near the shores, looking at the ocean. This man she saw wore a long sleeved, red over shirt, with baggy denim pants that is folded to expose his muscled calfs, with a shade of natural beige that matched the sands of a barren desert. Through Hitomi's eyes, he looked awfully familiar. Hitomi shrugged that thought off. Maybe she was imagining things She was about to grab one of the expensive napkins that her mom brought for this occasion when it flew away.

"Oh no!" she cried as she ran to get it. "I told mom not bring these! Although it's my graduation party and our annual cherry blossom party, it doesn't have to be set up that special!" Before the cloth flew off to the ocean, the man on the shores caught it just in time. Hitomi smiled, grateful for the man. "Thank you so much! I really am grateful!" Slowly, the man turned around to greet her warm gratefulness.

Suddenly, Hitomi's hand covered her mouth as Hitomi is consumed with shock. On her ring finger, the promise ring glowed momentarily.

"Hitomi," he said, smiling that familiar smile of his. "I'm here…"

The end

Or not. Wow, I must say I had major brain firing towards the end since I tried to overcome my writer's block. Hopefully, I did it right. I might change that part a bit in the near future when I come up with another idea. Well this is the end of the story. I know some of you expected Kyoko to be booted off horribly. But, the antagonist also must face some valuable lessons. I'm trying to make Kyoko not all bad. After all, not all antagonists are power-driven, heartless group of people who try to destroy the world completely. To me, this is the proper way to send Kyoko off. At least she got a HARD punch from Hitomi. So she deserved that the least, hehe. Anyways, the story is not over yet. The epilogue will be out tomorrow. The reason for that is because I wanted to see if you guys liked how this last chapter ended or you want to see more closure to this story and read the epilogue. So, please leave a comment and tell me what you think. Thanks again for reading and reviewing. Bye- Bye!