All you need is Love, Isn't it?

by A. Amishi

Hitomi visits Van regularly over the next three years but when she turns 18 the pressure of school and college exams are hightened when Van pops the question. But Merle has her own plans for their future. In the process of being re-edited, again

5. The Proud King

Disclaimer: See chapter 1.

Escaflowne: All you need is Love, Isn't it?

Chapter 5: The Proud King

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Along the north end of the city

"Currently, we're in the process of building an aqueduct from the Vinsorii River, through the forest, and into the city. It will follow that path through the forest." He pointed.

"Amazing, but why do you need an aqueduct through the city?" Hitomi asked.

"It will ensure the future prosperity of Fanelia. By having a source of fresh water running through the city, we'll be able to grow without putting a burden on the city's water supply." He turned his horse about to face his guest. "Would you like to see what we've done so far?"

"Hmm, yes, I'd like that," she replied. 'He's so proud of what he's done for his kingdom. He really is a king.'

As they rode towards the river at a slow trot, Hitomi asked, "So, have you seen or heard from any of the others in the past six months?"

"Others?" Van asked coyly.

"You know: Chid, Millerna, Allen," she said timidly.

"We've established trade routes with both Asturia and Freid. Both Prince Chid and Princess Millerna were here in Fanelia just two months ago. We held a great festival in their honor, it was quite wonderful." He gave a half smile.

"It sounds wonderful. I wish I could have been here for that. " Hitomi smiled.

"I wish you could have been here as well." Van's smile faded.

'Oh no, is he upset that I didn't try to contact him sooner?' She turned away, not wanting to see the stern look on his face.

"But I'm glad you're here now," he continued.

Gasping slightly, she looked over at him to see him smiling once again. Seeing his beautiful smile caused her to smile back. "So am I."

They rode for the next twenty minutes in comfortable silence, simply enjoying the other's company. Every once in a while one would glance over and smile until the other turned and smiled back, then they would turn their attention back down the path.

AN: First let me take a moment to thank the kind folks that reviewed my first couple chapters. I wasn't sure how this story was going to be received with the chapters being so short. But by doing it this way, I'll be able to post more often than I normally would.

This is my first attempt at writing an Escaflowne fic, and I must say I'm more than a little nervous about it since I've only watched the show in its entirety once. If I make any errors when referring to past events or places please feel free to let me know so I can correct them. Again, thank you for your kind words. I hope you enjoy where I'll be taking this story.

AN: 6/30/2013

I've decided to leave my original Author's Notes simply to use as a point of reference of when I originally wrote each chapter. Occasionally, I may add additional ANs if I make any significant changes. No major changes here.

A. Amishi