Dreams or Nightmares
That night Umi's parents slept comfortably in one of the best rooms in the Presidential Palace. It had been a long and hectic day for them, the last five days had been. Everything since her daughter had confided everything related to Cefiro.
It was a very big impression. Not because they did not believe the story of her daughter, on the contrary, the sparkle in her eyes and security to express them all, they realized that the girl was not lying or hallucinating. It had been real. It was all real. That knowledge was what impacted them. They didn't need to be a genius to realize that Umi had told them all with as few dangerous details. They might have lost her only precious child unaware of how and even if they had said nothing, the mere thought was terrifying.
Now everything was largely overcome, or at least a very few steps before achieve that. Cephiro and the obvious affection of the people towards the three warriors, and the genuine gratitude and appreciation from the Chizetans to her daughter, had contributed significantly to its tranquility. And most importantly, Umi was happy, that was undeniable. Those people were part of her now and therefore also part of them.
As for the families of the other girls, they too had come to similar conclusions. Not to mention that the time of crisis and terrible battles had been in the past. What do scandal and worries will serve them now that their beloved girls had gone well fought and withstood many dangers? It would have been ridiculous. Much better was to adapt to the new situation and encourage the best possible arrangement. Cephiro was a real dream, why not just enjoy it? Not forgetting that Hikaru and Fuu were really careful to do everything pleasing to them, to the point of improvising Japanese food with local ingredients, they could not let them down. They had had enough remorse before and they would not become one more.
The Autozam dawn came quickly and although many were aware of it, nobody saw him. Due to the high level of toxicity of the planet, all habitable planet sites were protected by huge domes that were responsible for filtering the low sunlight, temperature control and purify the air. Not to mention the increasingly prolific underground cities. Little was outside that might interest someone.
Even with all these adversities over its inhabitants went forward, either by complete resignation to the reality they had or firm hope in the future. Eagle was of the latter. That was something that Tatra was sure about. You could see it in his eyes. He loved his world and therefore he will never resign. Maybe that's why her immediate sympathy for him. After all, the Major and Princess were not so different in that aspect.
Most likely it was that which made her up and go to his dormitory so early. She didn't stop for knocking, just opened the door, knowing she will find working out probably, and she was right. So concentrated he was in his abdominal series that he did not even hear the door open.
- Not to criticize, but it wouldn't be better to do that in a gym? She asked behind him.
-Tatra – with a well - concealed shocked face he stand up quickly.
- I remember that Geo commented something on the physical training facilities they have in the academy. Extremely complete if the description fits.
-They are.
- So…
- I know my father. He really cares about me and with everything happened lately he simply has...
- Has become overprotective?
- We could say that.
-It only natural. You're his only son. But I understand. Believe me I understand - they shared a brief chuckle, he with both hands on his waist and looking down and her watching him as she would with his own sister, Tata - I understand why you wanted to hide it, but another thing is to hide it from the person responsible for taking care of your health, don't you think?
- Why is it that I have the impression of not having achieved that? -He looked - How long do you know?
- Oh, come on Eagle! Did you really think I would not notice the signs of recent physical activity? Not to mention the unmistakable aroma of freshly washed hair and your lotion bath - she added with a bright smile.
Eagle openly laughed at that – Being a military and a man does not remove the fact of having certain vanities – he explained - personal hygiene is important, especially if one is constantly accompanied by representatives from other planets.
- Very well said! In addition, there is nothing better for a tired body than a nice bath. And as commander you know better than anyone what can happen to a wound if no cleaning is involved.
- I do know - sighed - Are you upset?
- No - was her honest and simple answer - not even when I found out.
- Why?
-Because from the beginning you took your recovery in a responsibly way. That and I realized it was your way of fighting your negative thoughts. A way to turn off your mind and not think on what you don't want, instead focus your attention on something else.
It took him time to return to reality after hearing her say that. It was true. The sessions and the company helped him greatly during the day, bringing him step by step close to his peace of mind. The big problem was the night. As soon as you he manage to sleep his dreams were plagued with confusing shadows and images. Many times he couldn't remember those dreams, but always left them with a deep sense of anguish and the need to escape. Of what?, He didn't know, but he was tired.
It was not always like that, or at least not at that level. Of course he had presented anxiety and restless dreams after the attack, but Varda, Alcar and later Tatra had helped with that and gradually these had been declining in number. But lately things had completely escaped control. Despite that he had continued his life as smiling as ever, trying to avoid any concern for their loved ones. He believed sincerely that he has gotten the job, but clearly he had not been.
The Eagle that Tatra had in front of her had little or nothing to do with the joyful and carefree picture he wanted to portrait. The young man before her had the face of a much older man, sharp shadows under the eyes and body language that spoke of spiritual exhaustion and defeat.
- Eagle - she spoke very softly - you have to understand that your body has long since ceased to need attention. What happens here is what worries me – she said as she touched his head and stroked his hair - You have to trust me, otherwise I cannot help and all my efforts are in vain.
Shortly before closing his eyes, the look of the commander could only be described as a deep appreciation - I will. Thank you.
Tatra seemed relieved - you're welcome. Now go to bathe. I don't want your body to cool off and end up with a cold because I entertained you more than necessary. When you are ready look for me where Geo, you and the others gather usually, we will talk calmly there.
Oblivious to this conversation was Umi, who was awake although comfortably curled up on her bed. It was not fatigue that kept her there, just wanted to enjoy the stillness of the moment. She was in need of this quiet moment that she had missed since the trip to Cephiro and a few days later at the arrival to Autozam. She had not shown it to anyone, but boy had she been stressed with the disclosure issue to their families. Now things slowly returned to calm and even more important than that was that the lies and secrets had come finally to an end.
Later she would contact Hikaru and Fuu to find out how things were going in Cephiro. It didn't matter the answer she could be given, because she was pretty sure that nothing could tarnish the spiritual freedom she felt. The others felt the same, she knew that without a doubt.
And while she decided that if it was not extremely necessary she would not put a foot out of her bed in the next couple hours, Tatra managed to unload all the grief that Eagle had been carrying silently without help. Under these conditions it was no surprise that his state of agitation at the end of the sessions with her had reached such high levels. She had only to remember the day of the training robot incident to know that the commander would not have stood much more if he keep like this.
Now that Umi was back, the Princess was confident on manage a better progress. She had strong suspicions that the fact that the girl had had a similar experience, and the knowledge that she had seen him out of it in the moments before the attack and still not blame him or feared him, made her a key element in his recovery. Plus they congenial and complement themselves so well. Whatever the reasons were, she give Eagle confidence and security and that was just what the Princess needed to help him return to be the Eagle he used to be.
For the time when the conversation between Eagle and the Princess was reaching the end, Umi was already up and walking to the room designated for her parents, eager to make sure they were okay. Geo had passed through the room of the commander and somewhat worried for not finding him there, he went to Tatra, knowing she had to know if anything was wrong. There he found a note addressed to him and the knight of water, she explained that Eagle was fine, but that she needed to have a serious conversation with him in order to give an effective treatment, she begged for them to not interrupt and act as normal as possible once they join them.
Geo sighed inwardly, he knew if she was worried about Eagle it was because there really was something wrong, even if it was small. If not for words of the princess that claimed that the situation was fixable, almost certainly the sub-commander would have been alarmed. That she was responsible for the good healing of his superior and friend calmed him. She would help him move on and get well, he was sure.
With the note carefully guarded in his pocket, he went in search of Umi. Tatra had directed the message to both and that should have, no doubt, a reason. It would also be an opportunity to end the conversation that his dear friend had stopped the previous evening. The memory made him smile. Poor Umi, no matter the good heart that Eagle had, deal alone with him... he definitely wanted to know how well had she left the interview, he still had some guilt for leaving her alone.
It took time to find her and when he did she was accompanied, not only by their parents but also by Caldina and Zazu. The first in a animated conversation with the mother of the knight, making and creating buzz that caused the laughter and sometimes embarrassment of Umi. As for Zazu, he was having a great time showing off their skills to a cordial Mr. Ryuzaki.
-I see you spent a good night - said with an air that seemed to say hello to the group, but with the main emphasis on the parents of the girl.
-Than is right - Mrs. Ryuzaki said in complete satisfaction - We really appreciate your hospitality.
- We could not have received better treatment - said her husband - After the travel a break like this came in handy.
- Good! - Exclaimed Caldina - As much as Doshi Clef has sought comfort, a journey like this is still tiring.
- To tell you the truth, I was also worried that this trip will affect you more - added Umi – I mean, with all the experiences that I have to make you live lately – she looked slightly mortified.
- You don't worry about that anymore - soothed her father – you can see that we are perfectly and eager to know Autozam.
- I can handle that! - Said an enthusiastic mechanical – The President has asked me to escort your family to where they want and frankly it will be a pleasure.
-Yes, we realize you are eager too - said Geo with a laugh - but calm down a little bit, we don't want to scare them. If the tour became exhausting with his unbridled enthusiasm, please do not hesitate to let me know - in the blink of an eye he had the boy trapped in a firm hug around the neck - I know very well how to control this little guy here – ended Geo while taken Zazu's hat and ruffling his hair.
- Ah, Geo! - Whined Zazu trying to escape the grip - I'm no little guy, and let me go now!
- As you say, young man - released him with a wink.
The poor boy almost ends all over on the floor by the sudden action of his tall, dark friend. When he finally regained his balance eyed him with obvious discomfort. Seeing that the teenager looked increasingly mortified, he offered his most sincere and humble apologies, also offering a generous portion of his favorite sweets, which immediately ended the anger of Zazu.
Noticing that the group had not had breakfast yet he invited them to one of the conference rooms of the presidential palace (the opposite side where the Princess and her patient were currently), which by not being used at that moment created a very comfortable ambient, it was a more than appropriate to eat and talk calmly.
They settled there without complications and after asking that they wanted, the sub-commander offered to bring the food requesting Umi's assistance for this purpose. The kitchen had more than enough staff to those duties, but knowing how independent the man was, than and his fondness for sweets (which had transmitted to the commander), the request was not taken completely out of place. She herself was developing some fondness too towards the Autozamits sweets also it was a good opportunity to help his friend choose the food according to the tastes of her parents. So she apologized to them and promised to be back soon with delicacies, leaving them in the attentive presence of Caldina and Zazu.
In the hall, being out of earshot of the room and after making sure that no one would appear in their way to get to the kitchen, Geo proceeded to pull the note from his pocket and handed it to the girl.
- What is this? - asked her now really taken by surprise.
- Nothing bad - he assured her – still you must read it.
Looking with suspicion at the paper, she unfolded it and had no trouble recognizing the letter of her Chizetan friend. Focusing on the letter she read the contents of the message and the sub-commander saw how her face went first for one of surprise to slowly be reflecting concern and finally adopt a calm but pensive expression.
-It was strange to me not having met either of them by now – she said to Geo returning the paper so he could keep it safe - Geo ...
- Yes?
- How was he while I was gone? - He already told me something, but even though I know he didn't lied I know also that he didn't said everything.
The brunette breathed somewhat uncomfortable, as he put his right hand behind his head – Nothing seriously happened, but the second day you left, Tatra began to lengthen the sessions - while talking about it he could feel the gaze of Umi on him – it was gradually and because it didn't extend to much I didn't worry. Not until she requested my presence in Eagle's room.
-The day that three of you were out to the recreational area and the robot was out of control.
- I see he said something about it yesterday.
- More or less, but I'd like to hear your version. Something tells me I will not hear about Tatra being heroic, right?
- Is not that she hasn't being heroic - confirmed him – but yes, what you will hear from my lips has nothing to do with what happened in the park.
From the mouth of his tall friend she learned that her first impression was not all favorable that day. For starters, that the princess would have been summoned him had been quite out of the ordinary and if she added the feeling that was awakening in him as it was coming towards the bedroom ... something definitely was wrong. The door was enough to confirm the suspicions. As Eagle had said, the atmosphere of the place had been tremendously loaded, to the point that Geo felt goosebumps all over his skin and his muscles were tense. To complete the feeling, the view that offered his friend was not at all encouraging. It was not that he was hurt, at least not in a way that he could have detected, but he couldn't say that he was in top form. Whatever it was that had happened there, he was completely altered, though a stranger would have seen him only tired. But he knew him for so long and had been through so much at his side, that he was not easily fooled.
When the princess saw him put his first foot inside the room, she quickly went to meet him with the most carefree expression that she was able to make, reassuring him that Eagle was fine, but he needed some air to clear his mind. As she spoke, Geo noted that his friend was not the only one affected, Tatra looked slightly tired and he did not ignore the silent plea in her eyes to not comment on what how they may look like. He opted to follow suit and get them both out of there as fast as possible, after all it was true that a way out would do them good.
The rest was well known to by the young knight and Geo did not refer to it. Soon they found themselves already at the door of the kitchen and that was enough for Geo to refrain from further commenting on his impressions. Umi shared his discretion. Neither of them were unaware that Autozam was going through a tense moment in both political and military, any comment, however innocent it was, could be cleverly used by opponents to discredit President Vision, as happened in the military with certain officers senior eager to move quickly on his military career and who would have come in handy to get rid of a potential rival as Eagle.
It was not until after leaving the kitchen, both carrying trays with plates, cups, cutlery, tea, coffee, and a considerable amount of biscuits and other treats, which Umi dare to make a comment:
- And to think he told me that things were better - there was grief in her voice - he said he had advanced ... I do not know what to think now.
- Don't think he tried to lie to you, because he didn't – Geo was quick to clarify - I know it must be hard for you to believe, but after that day everything started to change, things really improved after that day. I could not tell, I'm not doctor or anything like that, but it would not surprise me Tatra has caused that on purpose - seeing that she looked as if she had said nonsense and she was going to defend her friend he had to quickly add - Please do not be angry or take it in the wrong way, I know that she would never try to hurt him. I have great confidence and respect for her, never doubt of that. What I think is that unconsciously Eagle wasn't doing his therapy as well as he should have and realizing this she took drastic measures before the situation got out of hand.
- I think I understand your point and it makes sense – she said looking at him - But if things are better now why the conversation alone? It really intrigues me.
- I do not think you have to worry about that now - some peace began to return to his face.
- Why is that?
- Look ahead.
Walking down the corridor towards them, they could see the commander and the Princess, still a considerable distance. Umi would have loved to pick up the pace to go to meet them, but they were already in a brisk walk and run with the trays filled of food and beverage undoubtedly would have caused an accident. No way, they would have to endure a little longer.
Fortunately they didn't have to wait long, as both, Tatra first and then Eagle had seen them and in turn accelerated their walk to meet them. As soon were face to face, the first thing that made the commander did, after greeting them, was to seize the tray from the hands of the water knight to carry it him. Needless to say the protests of her were close to nothing on her blonde friend.
- What kind of gentleman would I be if I don't help you with this seeing that I have empty hands? Anyway Tatra and I were going to the kitchen to get some food, so I would have ended with a tray in my hands anyways.
- Let him take her, Umi – said the Princess - Men like him are not many, are you going to refuse his attentions?
She had to resign, and how to say no to his good will and that pair of amber eyes so sweet and even pleading? Best was that Tatra and her were to the kitchen in search of cups, plates and cutlery that would be need it now that they had joined the breakfast. While this was happening, from Eagle and Tatra came as a simple but significant sentence:
- It's all right.
Geo looked at his friend in the eye and what he saw there caused the corners of his lips curve upward a little bit, giving him his classic confident and resolute image. He just nodded his head and throwing a look that seemed to say "It's good to have you back."
Umi's reaction was as one of mixed feelings. Of course she knew that if her friend claimed it then must be true, which filled her with satisfaction, but at the same time her mind was plagued with questions about the conversation they had have in most private way. She was going to ask about it, but the gentle Tatra move her index finger to her lips, indicating that it was not the time to clarify doubts or rather that she would not be responsible for clear them.
- Be patient - She told her later on, he will explain it to you.
Nothing more was said of the matter and soon the four were found in company with the rest, enjoying the delicacies that the presidential kitchen could offer. The conversation went back and forth animatedly and the conference room was flooded with laughing on more than one occasion.
Once finished and satisfied, Zazu resumed his insistence to Umi's parents to give them a tour of the place until the time when the president was released from his job and could personally attend their guests. After so much emphasis and the growing curiosity to know the place where their daughter had lived there for the last time, Mr. Ryuzaki ended accepting the kindness of the boy. Acting as a good host, the commander added himself as a second guide and following his example, Geo became the third guide, fearing that his young friend would end bothering the couple, of course that the rest joined them, but as tourists. Despite of know already part of Autozam, they still had a lot to learn about it, after all they had not forgotten their quality of emissaries and that they were there not just for fun. That was a great opportunity to balance things.
They went through several places, from libraries, universities, museums, concert halls true stadiums some of them, shopping malls what led to young men carrying several packets and bags, schools to mechanical laboratories, sports and virtual simulation centers and the robotic combat stadium that belonging to the military academy, the largest one in all Autozam. Finally, as an ending touch, Eagle led them all to the recreational area that so well had spoken to Umi the day before and while being there, she could understand why he had him more.
Beautiful, the site, besides being a wonder of design and planning, it was really beautiful. No matter where the group will look on, his eyes would find pleasant and lush greenery. Everything there looked fresh and lively, inviting to peace and good fun. Adding it to the size of the place, the many local playgrounds and food and curiosities, strategically placed to not break the peace of the environment, it was not hard to understand the quick attachment the autozamits had for the place.
- What do you think so far? Umi asked his parents.
- Wonderful, just wonderful - her mother had a huge smile on her lips and looked really pleased with the experience.
- You've got some good friends - who spoke now was her father – I don't blame you for being desperate to return. You are in good hands.
She smiled, happy to be understood and to know that she would not have to fear their parents distrust. Of course that from the peak of happiness declined quickly to a deeper embarrassment, thanks to the same couple. Why can't her parents be a little more discreet with their displays of affection?
- Why me? –she said rolling her eyes – just right now that everything was so good! – Soon after that she could hear a subtle and respectful male laughter behind her. Knowing who would she find, she turned around a bit irritated and said – You Love watching suffer, right?
- No - was the sincere response of the commander - But I cannot deny that at this point you offer a very amusing show.
- Meany – she heard that laugh again - hey! - She complained – Why me?
- I don't see anything wrong. What not all couples embrace and smile themselves?
- Yes but those two are very close to ... dance? - Eagle saw her eyes wide open just to cover them with his hands and turn incredibly pale seconds later - Oh no, they're doing it!
- Umi don't be like that - begged him now standing by her side - They're just very proud of their love and what are they dancing is not exactly exhibitionist - defended, fascinated with the radiating happiness of the couple.
- Not really sure why I'm even surprised. It's always the same! In fact it was surprised they behaved well all this long.
- But they're happy, are you not glad about that?
- Yes. Yes it does.
Without warning, when she had resigned to the demonstrations of her parents and her lips held a tremendous struggle with herself to avoid getting a smile, she felt a firm but gentle touch on her left shoulder. Just tilting her head a little she realized that it was the hand of his friend, who bowed to earshot.
- I need to talk to you.
As only answer she nodded and turned her eyes to the rest of the group, whom she found very entertaining with folkloric dances of Chizeta, both the dancer and the princess were performing. Such was the spectacle that even his parents had stopped to watch the show.
- Why is it that I think you planned all this? She accused.
- I do not know - said innocently - Maybe because you know me very well? – He didn't even flinch when he said that and at such displays of cynicism Umi had to be quick and cover her mouth to suppress her laughter.
Without further ado, Eagle began to walk and she had no choice but to follow. Their walk was leisurely and after a quick look she discovered him with his eyes closed and breathing deeply. He looked so calm and peaceful, and he even seemed to be higher than it actually was.
- Someone will need another trip to the beach - she said in a singsong voice, as if to provoke him, but when he looked at her all she saw was a sweet expression.
- Careful woman, I could end up accepting the invitation and if that happens you will not know how to get rid of me.
- Mmm ... What if I blackmailed you with candy?
The laughter from him was immediate - Nice try, very good attempt, but even so I would not lose the opportunity to be back in front of the sea.
They had stopped on a tree of big proportions and whose shadow was equally significant. Without a word, they agreed on sitting at the tree's feet. From there the girl could still see her friends, showing off with their dances and gaining more public.
- It would be nice that these two open dance classroom – she said leaning on the trunk - they would be more than fine.
She was surprised to receive no response from his partner so she directs her eye her left to see was happening, she found him staring at the branches of the giant tree. A branch in particular, one that had been broken more or less on their half. Watching it on a closer look, it seemed to be charred on the site that now was his end ...
- Eagle ... her voice was expecting - Is this the tree that I think it is?
- Yes. This is.
- Why did you bring me here?
- You know already, to chat - the amber of his eyes instead of being stuck on the high branch, now seemed very interested in the grass under both of them - I know I have you worried over me and I apologize for that - he put his right hand the back of his head, where he began playing with his hair, unsure about how to proceed - I've been having dreams ...
- What kind of dreams?
- Not quite the nice time ones…