AN: Here is chapter 13 for you.
Disclaimer: I only own Arathnia, and the characters from there. I do not own Escaflowne, even though I wish I did.
* mark dream sequences.
- mark visions.
The Past, Future, and Somewhere in Between
Chapter 13: Exposed: The Truth Pours Out Pt. 1
The moon hung high in the sky as the icy chill of night swept over the Arathnian holy land. The sky was clear without a single cloud in sight. This left the two moons to light up the sky. Thousands of little tiny stars were clustered across the vast darkness of the sky, sparkling in their beauty. The snow white temple was illuminated under the unearthly glare of the moonlight and the rocky terrain was littered with shadows from the places where the light could not touch. An eerie mist swept up from the river and into the valley below the temple coating the land in a thin fog. A pregnant silence crept over the small buildings as the priests and priestesses tucked the numerous children into their beds before turning in to their own beds for the night. The group of travellers had been lodged into four rooms just off from the temple. This is where they were to stay until they were ready to resume their journey back to Fanelia.
Amongst the rocks and boulders of the mountainous region just beyond the temple, Folken stood alone, gazing up at the twinkling stars in the sky above. This evening, sleep eluded the former knight. Without a purpose, his mind remained unoccupied and the demons of both his past and the secrets of the present haunted his every moment. It was easy to distract himself when he was around the others and with his son, but by himself, there was no escape from it. He let out a sigh, letting his head fall down as he glanced down at the valley below. It was so peaceful at night. If only his soul could also find that peace.
"Care to share your thoughts?" Freya's voice called.
He turned to look in her direction. The robes she had worn before had been replaced with a long white evening gown. Her hair had been undone and cascaded in delicate waves down her back. The pale moonlight caught the silver highlights amongst her white locks. The cloth that had been covering her eyes had been removed and replaced with a dark silken fabric. That supernatural quality about her only seemed to intensify as she drew nearer to him.
"I thought you would be in bed," He stated tearing his gaze away from her and returning it to the sky above them.
She chuckled, "You should know me by now. No sense in sleeping before my nightly stroll through the valley," She stated her stride coming to a stop only three feet beside him. "What is on your mind my child?" She tried again her voice softening as she spoke.
He sighed crossing his arms over his chest. He could never keep anything hidden from Freya. She had this way of coaxing information out of him without trying to hard. Since he had come to Arathnia, she was his only true friend. She was just an easy person to talk to, and she always had some kind of insight that proved most helpful. Most of all, she never judged him. He didn't have to lie or hide from her, and that was something he cherished. "She turned on me," He stated bluntly finding no other possible way for him to word it.
"Galaxia?" She asked almost immediately as if reading his mind.
He nodded in response, "Who else," was his bitter response.
Freya nodded once in acknowledgement. "That girl is full of inconsistencies isn't she?" She remarked a small smirk tugging at the corner of her lips. "She does care for you, you know that don't you?"
Folken scoffed, "If she cared so much, she wouldn't have sold me out to Queen Brahne now would she?" He snapped frustrated with the situation laid out in front of him.
"Well getting angry will not help," she replied calmly. She tilted her head up as if to stare at the stars. "I am no fool Folken. I know how you feel about her, it's obvious," She stated, an amused tone in her voice. "The way you look at her gives you away. But there is something that you have to realize, Galaxia's loyalties lie first with the throne of Arathnia. You knew as much when you followed her to Scorpigal to speak with the tavern master about your brother," She continued on without pause. "Besides, wasn't it you who shared such private information about your brother to her, knowing that it would reach Queen Brahne," She stated turning her gaze back towards him.
"I didn't think they'd use it against him," He muttered a feeling of shame creeping up on him.
"You know better than that," She lightly scolded. "Queen Brahne is a wretched snake," She snapped a small shred of anger and bitterness slipping through her calm facade. She took a deep breath, burying the feelings back down letting a slightly uncomfortable silence fall over them for a few moments. "You never did tell her did you?" She added after the silence had spread far enough.
"Tell her what?" He asked raising a curious eyebrow at her.
"Who you really are," Freya pressed on taking a step forward and pulling herself up onto one of the boulders. She sat down with a small grunt as her lower body came in contact with the cold stone. "The truth." She turned to him expectantly.
"No," he replied gruffly.
Freya couldn't help but smile, "You know a relationship cannot survive on lies."
He turned on her, his frustration exploding for a half a second, "I know that!" He nearly yelled running his hands through his long silver hair.
She shook her head, "You still have much to learn Folken. Unfortunately, it is nothing that I can teach you," She explained resting her hands in her lap. She sighed when silence greeted her ears. "That is all the advice I can give you," She concluded turning her head back up towards the sky. "I wish I could help you further."
Folken sighed, "So do I Freya, so do I."
Freya slipped off the boulder and walked towards him. Her bare feet glided silently over the uneven terrain until she was standing beside him. She placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, "Have some faith in her. There is much more to Galaxia than what lies upon the surface," She remarked with a knowing smile before turning and heading towards the large stone staircase.
Folken watched the Priestess's retreating form until she disappeared into the darkness of the night. Once she was out of sight, he sighed and headed back into the stone walls of the temple.
The sun rose early in the vast expanse of land that was known as Caladonna. The light illuminated the area beginning to heat the cool land with it's bright rays. The sun had just risen over the horizon when a loud, low-pitched horn resounded throughout the valley of Caladonna. This sound forced the residents from their slumber and out into the early morning light so that they could start their day. In an instant, it brought the entire small village to life.
Hitomi found herself awoken by the sound of the horn. She too sat up, stretching her muscles a small smile spreading across her features. She had not slept that well in a long time. The visions in her dreams had not plagued her during the night and this was a huge relief. The confusion of past events that played behind her closed lids were beginning to wear on her. It was frustrating, especially since they gave her no answers and barely told her a story. It was all jumbled images and overused words blended together into a mass of confusion until none of it was recognizable.
Hitomi stepped out of the temple, squinting her eyes as the bright sunlight assaulted her sensitive eyes. She could hear the happy and joy filled cries of the children as they eagerly began their day. She looked down into the valley spotting the young ones running around immersed in the production of their play time. Even though it seemed like they had just awoken from the same deep slumber that she had, they were little balls of energy. They ran about the grass without a care in the world. She couldn't help the smile that spread across her face. With all the fear, hatred, and war in this world, it was a relief to see that the innocence of children had not been completely lost. It was things like this that made her think back to the Destiny Wars, to Prince Chid. He had lost so much and was forced to grow up so quick. She only hoped that things turned out better here.
"Wonderful isn't it," A soft female voice called from behind her. Startled, she turned to the source of the voice. She let of a small sigh of relief when she realized that it was just Salia. The blonde priestess just laughed, "Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you," She apologized, adjusting the large pails in her hands.
Hitomi nodded, "It's not your fault. I should learn not to be so jumpy," She reasoned letting her hands rest at her sides. "I didn't see you in the temple last night," She remarked as Salia side stepped her and approached the staircase.
"I usually stay in the lower levels with my mother," She explained with a small shrug of her shoulders. "There is specialized training that can only be done at night and can only be between me and my mother," She continued adjusting the pails in her hands again. "High priestess stuff."
Hitomi nodded in understanding. She could imagine the pressure on the young girl's shoulders to excel and prepare herself for her destiny. "Where are you headed?" She asked eyeing the pales in the younger girl's hands.
"I must venture to the river and gather some water for purification," She replied looking down at the empty metal container. "It's a full moon tonight. That's the only time we can prepare it properly," She explained.
Hitomi nodded, "Sorry for being nosey, I was just curious," She apologized.
Salia shrugged, "Don't worry about it, sometimes curiosity is a noble trait."
Hitomi chuckled, "I will keep that in mind."
A smile flashed across Salia's face and she turned to continue her rather graceful stride. It was obvious that the small blonde was struggling with the two large pails. They nearly hit the ground with every step she took. Yet still, she manged to push herself forward and continue on. The amount of dedication the young priestess seemed to have for her studies astounded her. Hitomi could barely even stay awake in class sometimes. Perhaps it was just another difference between Earth and Gaea.
Hitomi watched her retreating form with interest. Life in Caladonna seemed so simple, but the people who resided within it's protective magic seemed so mysterious and complex. They spoke in riddles and never spelled anything out clearly. That was left alone for you to figure out. It was like they were keeping secrets that outsiders were not to know. It intrigued the young seeress. A particular curiosity left Hitomi more confused than any of the other things she had seen or felt, was that she felt completely at rest here. Like she was home.
Unexpectedly, Salia stumbled, and her grip on the pails faltered. She dropped the steel objects and held out her hands to soften her impact with the ground. She grunted as her small body collapsed against the grass and soil. She groaned forcing herself back up onto her knees. She muttered something inaudible before running her fingers through her now tousled blonde locks.
After recovering from the shock of the sight, Hitomi rushed over to the other girl. "Are you alright?" She asked concern lacing with the usual softness of her voice. "Are you hurt?"
"Only my dignity," She replied brushing her hands off on her skirt. "Stupid tree root," She huffed in annoyance glaring down at the small upraised root that was wrapped around her foot.
Hitomi chuckled in amusement. The young priestess had a bit of fight in her. She held out her hand for the other girl to take. Salia nodded appreciatively, taking a hold of the offered appendage. With little effort, Hitomi pulled the blonde back up onto her feet. There was seemingly no weight to her at all. Hitomi then bent down and picked up one of the fallen pails. "Here, I can help you. Seems like a lot to carry," She remarked gripping the handle with both hands. They were heavier than she had thought.
"Sure," Salia replied picking up the other pale. "I used to have a rod with hooks on it to carry them over my shoulders, but it seems to have disappeared," She explained brushing some stray hairs away from her face. "One of the children must have taken it thinking it was a toy," She mused shaking her head with a smile on her face. "I appreciate the helping hand."
Hitomi shrugged, "No problem, just lead the way."
Salia smiled brightly and nodded before heading down the stone staircase, with the seeress following closely behind her.
Salia let out a happy sigh as she splashed the cool and refreshing water on her face. The sun rays pulsed and weighed down on them making them heavier, sweaty and tired. Hitomi watched with amusement as the young blonde dunked her whole head in the water soaking her face and hair in the process. She couldn't help but chuckle at the sight.
"That feels so good," Salia stated wiping the excess water from her skin. "I really needed that," She added with another happy smile.
Hitomi placed her bucket on the ground and walked closer to the water's edge. "Is it safe?" She asked looking down at the crystal clear blue water.
Salia let out a laugh, "Of course it's safe, it flows from a spring underneath a volcano," She explained. "This is the water we use for drinking, preparing food, everything we do around here relies on this spring," She continued as she rung the copious amount of water from her hair.
Hitomi knelt down beside the priestess and tentatively reached her hands into the water. Cupping it in her hands, she brought it up her face, splashing it on her own skin. It felt great. She mimicked the action a few more times earning a giggle from the girl next to her. Salia stood and walked back to where they had set down the buckets. She grabbed the handle of one and brought it over to the spring. With no hesitation, she lowered the bucket in. Water rushed into the container, filling it in only a matter of seconds. Hitomi watched with interest.
Salia lifted the full bucket from the water with a grunt. She hefted it up higher, splashing some on her dress before tipping it back over the stream. This caused some of the water that was inside to spill out back into the spring. This left a more manageable amount of water inside. "I have to say Hitomi," She spoke up placing the bucket down on the ground beside her. "Aside from Folken, you are the only one who appears completely at ease here," She continued sitting down next to the pail wiping the excess water from the side with the hem of her dress. "Why is that?" She asked looking up at the other girl.
Hitomi was slightly taken a back by this, but did her best not to let it show. She shook her head lifting up the other bucket. "It's so clam and peaceful here. I suppose that could have something to do with it. I've never been anywhere that feels so safe you know."
Salia stared at her blankly for a moment, blinking in slight confusion. Curiosity sparkled in her eyes as she opened her mouth to speak again, "I do not understand what you mean."
Hitomi let out a solemn sigh. "Gaea has always seemed, at least to me, as a world at war with itself," She began as she carried the empty bucket over to the spring. "No matter where I go, or who I meet, Chaos just seems to consume everything because all anyone wants to do is fight," She explained as she submerged the bucket in the water as the priestess had. "It's just nice to know that somewhere, peace and tranquillity reign instead of violence," She concluded with a shrug.
Salia nodded impressed by the other girl's well spoken response. "I believe that truer words have never been spoken," She replied rising to her feet. "You are a very enlightened individual."
Hitomi blinked a couple times, "Um...thanks?"
Salia let out a small chuckle at her response as she walked over, "You know, my mother would be very interested in getting to know you," She added reaching down and grabbing a hold of the hand attached to the bucket.
Hitomi's eyebrows knitted together in thought, "Your mother wants to talk to me?" She half stated, half asked.
Salia nodded hauling the metal container from the water. "Very much so," was her slightly delayed reply. "It is not often that one encounters someone from the Mystic Moon," She added repeating the same procedure with the bucket that she had before. "She sees something in you that has perked her interest. You see, the rifts between our worlds was never meant to be crossed," She explained wiping down the sides of the bucket again.
"But I have twice now."
"Exactly," She said with a small grunt as she lifted the bucket and sat it down next to the other one, "That is what she finds most intriguing. At least that is what she has told me. She tends to leave me out of the loop of her crazy theories."
Hitomi shrugged her shoulders, "Well, I have no answers for her."
A small smile tugged at Salia's lips, "Not consciously," She added tucking her blonde hair behind her ears. "However, she may have some. My mother has a mysterious way of knowing things."
"I've noticed," Hitomi commented bowing slightly with respect to the other girl. "Thank you. I will be sure to seek her out."
Salia nodded wiping the small amount of sweat that had accumulated from her brow. "I do have a curious question. It is kind of personal, but if you don't mind me asking," She said slightly awkwardly as she tilted her head to look at the other girl.
Hitomi shook her head, "No, go right ahead."
The priestess wasted no time, "Is it true that you and King Van are somewhat of an item?"
Hitomi blinked a couple times, "What?" She could feel her cheeks heat up and she could tell that she was indeed blushing, and furiously.
Salia let out a nervous laugh, "I do apologize. I am ashamed to admit that I am somewhat of a gossip. I hear about something and feel the need to pry. Please forgive me," She said humbly before bending down and grabbing one of the buckets.
Hitomi shook her head, clearing out her surprise at the unexpected question. "No, no it's alright," She assured her with a friendly smile attempting to mask her slight embarrassment. "I would not say we are an item, but I do care for him very much," She answered with a nod.
Salia smiled back, "I can tell. He feels the same," She replied with a wink lifting one of the buckets. "I've seen the way he looks at you," She commented. "Come on, we have to get these back to the temple," She spoke up not giving Hitomi a chance to comment further.
The other girl nodded grabbing the handle for the other bucket, "Yes of course," She stammered slightly flustered. She followed the priestess lead as she headed back towards the temple.
"I demand to see my son!" a familiar female voice echoed throughout the valley as the two girls neared the temple with the full pails of water in their hands.
"No one is stopping you," Another female voice piped up, obviously a priestess.
"Then why are you standing in my way!" The woman raged on. It was obvious that there was no reasoning with this woman. The two girls proceeded along the rocky path that led from the river all the way up to the stone staircase and then to the temple, increasing their walking pace.
"Because you need to speak to Freya before you are allowed access to the children. You of all people should know that. Visitors must go through proper channels!" The priestess fired back in response.
"I am above proper channels Arebell!"
She scoffed, "No one is above proper channels. You must calm down before I let you near the temple. I can see the rage in your eyes, soothe the beast and I shall let you pass," Arebell replied calmly, keeping her cool and standing her ground. She showed no signs of backing down.
"Just get out of my way!" The woman growled.
As the two girls rounded the corner, they saw a dark haired woman sprawled on the ground and a flash of gold disappearing up the stone staircase. Alarmed, Salia placed her pail down and ran over to the fallen priestess. It was obvious that this woman was the priestess known as Arebell. Awkwardly, the dark haired woman pushed herself up into a sitting position with some help from Salia. The two women shared a few hushed words in the same language that Freya had been speaking the night before. Hitomi was certain that this was a language shared by their people. It was the first time she had heard such a thing on Gaea
"FREYA!" The woman screeched, her voice ripping through the valley.
Salia quickly turned around and ran towards the staircase. Hitomi followed the preistess' example, placed the pail down first before rushing off towards the staircase in pursuit. She surged forward, taking the steps two at a time in order to catch up to the blonde woman. Still that head start kept her a fair distance ahead. Her pace continued on until she became too tired to maintain it. She stopped at about the halfway point to catch her breath. She looked up towards the top of the stairs, and that's when she heard Salia begin.
"What do you think you're doing here?" She heard the the young priestess ask.
"I came to see my son," The woman repeated in frustration.
"I understand that, but you need to calm down in order for me to help you," Salia snapped back. Her tone of voice was not helping defuse the rapidly escalating situation. "You're son is safe here, I do not understand your rage," She confessed.
"I know they're here. I can feel them," the woman snarled back.
"Who!"
"The Fanelian envoy!"
The hairs on the back of Hitomi's neck stood on end and her body shuddered involuntarily. The way that woman had said that had sent a wave of fear through her body for reasons she couldn't even begin to explain. Still, she forced herself to continue up the steps determined to figure out who this woman was. The familiarity of her voice was frustrating because she could not place it. In her haste, her foot missed the step and she tripped up the steps, landing roughly across the top four steps. She shook her head before turning to look at the scene in front of her. Her blood ran cold as she spotted the aggressor in this particular situation.
Galaxia stood across from Salia, her hands clenched tightly at her sides and her eyes on fire with a rage that was so intense she almost looked away. The most surprising was that her eyes had taken on a blood red hue instead of their usual violet. She was clothed in a Grecian styled gown that fell loosely around her curves. Her golden hair was wild and framed her face like mane.
"Galaxia," Freya called as she approached the two women. "I have never seen you so tense. Calm yourself dear one," She continued in an effort to soothe her
Before Galaxia has time to respond, the three woman were interrupted by yet another person. "Galaxia," Folken called as he emerged from the temple, revealing his presence to her.
This seemed to attract her attention and confirm her suspicions. "You," She snarled, her eyes narrowing at the silver haired man. "You!" She repeated storming forward. She brushed passed Freya the rage in her eyes intensifying. It took her mere moments to reach him. She stopped, glaring up at the taller man before raising her hand and striking him with all the strength she could muster into a vicious slap. The sound echoed through the valley like a gunshot. Folken's head turned to the side from the force of the impact of her hand. He reached up, placing his fingers over the rapidly reddening area. He winced in pain at the slight pressure. "Where is my son you, you, bastard!" She bellowed the rage rolling off of the knight in waves.
However, her intimidation tactics didn't seem to be working on him. Folken let his hand fall back down to his side. "He is safe."
Galaxia scoffed, "No one is safe with you!" She raged on poking him in the chest. "Give him to me now."
"Calm down..." He started, but Galaxia almost instantly cut him off.
"I will not!"
"Mother," A small voice called from the temple door. Hitomi craned her neck in an effort to see past Folken. However, she quickly found that she was unable to.
Galaxia's expression softened and the red hue of her eyes faded back into their normal violet shade. She dropped down to her knees, opening her arms, "Tarnum," She called invitingly. Hitomi saw a flash of silver as Tarnum quickly ran into the open arms of the female knight. She wrapped her arms around the child, pulling him tightly against her.
Hitomi eyes widened as the realization hit her at full force. Galaxia was Tarnum's mother. So many things began to make sense. The hurt Folken had felt due to Galaxia's betrayal and his introverted behaviour and the closeness he seemed to share with his son. Most of all, his reluctance to tell them of his new found life in Arathnia. The many broken and shattered pieces of the vast puzzle were beginning to take shape.
Galaxia placed a gentle kiss on the top of the child's head, "Are you alright?" She asked loosening her hold so that she could look down into his eyes.
"Why wouldn't I be?" The young boy asked in confusion, tilting his head in questioning. He was not understanding the feelings he was sensing from his mother.
"Don't worry my son," She dismissed pulling him closer again sheltering him from view. She turned her gaze up to Folken, that glare resurfacing again. "You had no right," She spat as she pushed herself back up onto her feet, still holding Tarnum. The small boy wrapped his legs around his mother's waist, determined not to let go.
Folken's emotional mask seemed to break at this, and the hurt came back to his eyes swirling and mixing together with the anger, "I had every right," He argued crossing his arms defiantly over his chest. "I found him in a Faerie Dragon's nest. I took him back here where he belongs. In case you have forgotten Galaxia, he is my son too!"
"But I am his mother," She replied bitterly. "There has never been a moment in his life where I have not been there for him. I wish the same could be said of you."
It seemed as if all the air had been sucked out of Folken's body and his confidence dropped. His face fell and it was easy to see that her words had struck something with him. He looked down at the ground taking a deep breath before looking back up at her. He was quickly losing steam and ammunition to work with, "That's unfair. Zaibach was not an easy time for me and you are the one who did not tell me in the first place," He stated a sullen expression on his face, "I thought you had more faith in me than this," He added quietly.
"You have done nothing to earn my trust!" Galaxia snapped the crimson colour taking over her eyes once again. "If anything, you've just destroyed what little trust I had."
Folken's gaze turned back to the ground at his feet. "Galaxia I..."
"No!" She roared taking a threatening step closer. "I do not want to hear your petty excuses!" She seethed her eyes narrowing at the silver haired man in front of her. "How dare you turn your back on me. How dare you turn your back on your country. Especially after all Queen Brahne has done for you," She lectured as Folken stood still taking her verbal lashing without further comment. "After all that I have done for you," She added coldly.
"Arathnia was never his country," Van spat emerging from the temple door. He had, had enough of the blonde knight's unnecessary tirade and the humbled stance of his older brother. Even after he had defected from Zaibach and had been staying in Asturias with them, he had never behaved in such a way. It was foreign to him, and it scared Van a little bit.
Galaxia's heated gaze turned to the raven haired king. "You!" She spat before releasing Tarnum from her arms sliding him down her body until his feet touched the ground. The child ran over to Salia, hiding behind the priestess' legs from his mother's violent words and uncontrollable temper. Quickly, Galaxia drew her sword pointing it at Van, "I knew it! I knew he'd help you. I knew he'd bring you here," She seethed rage burning in those blood red orbs. "I knew there was something going on with you two. How else would he know you so well," She ranted on her sword held at him threateningly. She then turned her gaze back to Folken, "You are a traitor! You always have and always will be, I can see that now," She seethed venomously.
"Galaxia," Salia hissed taking a step towards the golden soldier, glaring at her drawn sword. She reached back placing a comforting hand on Tarnum's head. "Remember where you are," She insisted.
"You!" She snarled turning around and pointing her sword at the young priestess. "Shut your mouth, this does not concern you," She spat with irritation before turning her attention back to the dragon king, "I should have finished you off in the tavern when I had the chance."
"Galaxia stop this," Folken interrupted, noticing Freya's slowly approaching figure.
"You do no not deserve to speak my name!" She roared glaring at him with pure hatred.
"Galaxia," Freya spoke softly from behind the knight. She reached up and placed a hand on her forehead. The next words out of her mouth were some kind of incantation. A soft blue hue emanated from Freya's boney fingers as she spoke her voice firm yet soft at the same time. As the words were spoken, Galaxia's aggressive stance relaxed and her eyes turned back to their normal violet hue. She dropped her sword on the ground with a loud clang. Freya smiled as the younger woman seemed to settle down. "Be at rest child," She said softly removing her hand from her face.
To Hitomi's complete surprise, Galaxia's eyes rolled back in her head and her body collapsed as she fell unconscious due to the overload of her emotions. Folken reached out, catching her in his arms before she hit the ground. Tarnum's eyes widened in alarm and he ran over to his mother muttering words so quickly that they were not distinguishable. Folken adjusted his hold on the unconscious woman before rising to his feet and lifting her up, seemingly effortlessly into his arms. He shifted her limp form taking care to keep her head elevated so it did not lull back. Freya placed her hand on Folken's shoulder, a sympathetic smile tugging at her thin lips.
Tarnum tugged on his father's coat, staring up at the unconscious form of his mother, "Is mother alright?" He asked concern evident in both his voice and his expression.
Before Folken had a chance to reply, Salia bent down and met his gaze, "She's just resting sweetheart," She explained gently taking his arm and guiding him away from the scene. "Come with me. We'll go and find Raven and Jack. Then we can round up some of the other children and play hide and seek. Doesn't that sound fun?" She suggested as they headed towards the staircase. Tarnum nodded meekly before casting a backwards glance at his parents before following closely at Salia's side.
Freya stepped away from Folken, letting her hand fall down to her side. "Take her into the temple," She stated running her pale hand across the girl's forehead. "She needs rest," She added softly gesturing towards the stone structure.
Folken nodded, "Of course," was his short reply. He tightened his hold on the golden-haired knight before heading towards the temple.
Freya turned towards Van. "It is best not to get involved young king," She commented before bending down and retrieving Galaxia's sword from where it had fallen. "This is between your brother and Galaxia and no one else. A lot needs to be said," She added running her fingers down the sharp edge of the sword expertly as to not cut into her skin.
Van snorted, "Right," He grumbled before turning around and heading towards the stone staircase.
General Avalon stopped him by placing a hand on his shoulder, "She is right. As much as I respect you, keep your nose out of it," He added firmly.
Van scowled at him brushing his hand away, "Yeah, I got that message the first time," He grumbled continuing his stride towards the staircase.
"Van..." Hitomi spoke up as he neared.
Van held his hand up, "Not now," He snarled brushing passed her and down the staircase without a second glance.
Hitomi watched after him, shock and hurt evident on her face. General Avanon walked up behind her gently grabbing a hold of her arm. "Come on, give him some time. He's been through a lot the last couple days. He just needs some time to think it through. Don't take it personally milady," He reassured her, guiding her towards the temple.
Hitomi glanced back at Van's retreating form as he cleared the last step of the staircase. "I sure hope you're right General Avanon."
The General chuckled, "Please, no need for such formality from a close and trusted friend of my king. Please, call me Mendelev." He insisted wrapping a comforting arm around her waist as they walked.
Hitomi couldn't help the small smile that appeared on her lips. His attempt at easing her insecurities and worry seemed to be rather effective. "Alright then, Mendelev," She replied with a nod.
Hours had passed since the confrontation in front of the temple. Nightfall was descending upon the valley, the moon slowly wrapping it in her comforting embrace of blissful slumber. Folken sat on the dresser across from the bed where Galaxia laid, sleeping peacefully. He watched her intently waiting for signs of her awakening. He sighed looking down at the
"I thought I made it perfectly clear that I no longer wished to be around you," She spoke up catching Folken's attention. His head jolted up and he locked eyes with the warrior. Her eyes narrowed at him when he failed to respond to her statement. She pushed herself up into a sitting position and pointed towards the door. "Get out," She hissed glaring at him.
"Just listen to what I have to say before you cast me out," Folken began holding up a hand to cut her off. "I have a lot of explaining to do."
Galaxia scoffed, "Yes, you most definitely do," She snapped not taking her eyes from her former lover.
Folken sighed, taking a deep breath while he summoned up the courage to tell her the truth that he had kept hidden from her for years. "You know I would not betray your trust for just any reason. You know me better than that," He began.
"Oh I do? Hmm, that's funny," was her sour retort.
Folken sighed again but this time in frustration. "This negativity will get us no where," He groaned pinching the bridge of his nose between his fingers. "All I ask for is your silence and co-operation. Just hear me out alright?" He replied growing slightly irritated with her belligerence.
Galaxia thinks for moment before sighing herself. She leans back against the headboard of the bed, crossing her arms over her chest. "You have two minutes," She stated begrudgingly.
Folken nodded in understanding. "There is one, and only one reason I would ever choose to help the throne of Fanelia over the throne of Arathnia," He began, but stopped trying to figure out exactly how to put forth his next statement.
"And what is that?" She asked after a few moments of silence. "You are running out of time," She reminded his, shifting her position slightly.
"Dragon blood courses through my veins," He finally replied. "The blood of Fanelia."
Galaxia's eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "What are you getting at?"
Folken sighed in frustration. "Van is my brother," He forced out. He had wanted her to figure it out herself, but it appeared she wanted direct answers. He supposed he owed her that much.
Galaxia let out a laugh, "That is not possible," was her retort. "The throne of Fanelia only produced two heirs, one of which died years ago. How can you lay claim to the throne if the younger of the two brothers is king," She remarked disbelievingly. "Lies you tell Folken Strategos."
He bit back another sigh. Her stubbornness could not be making this more difficult. "That is not my real name. The name given to me at birth is Folken Lacour de Fanel. Son of Varie and Goau Fanel. Heir to one of the lands of dragons. I am of dragon blood. Van Slanzar de Fanel is my younger brother," He stated crossing his arms over his chest. "I am the one who disappeared all those years ago." Galaxia opened her mouth to speak, but Folken cut her off again. "Why would I waste both my time and yours by feeding you lies? Despite what you may think, it is the truth."
"Get out Folken," She stated firmly, however not maliciously. She then let out a tired sigh and rested the back of her hand against her forehead. "I just, need some time to think this over."
He nodded feeling rather dejection, but at the same time a sense of relief. Her response had been fairly calm, which he had not expected. "Of course, take all the time you need," He replied before turning and leaving the room. He just hoped that her decision would work out in his favour.
Night had fallen and shrouded the valley in darkness. A thin veil of mist floated about the air adding a bit of needed moisture to the air. The only sounds being made were from the creatures outside the holyland's protective magic, and the innocent snores of those basking in the land of dreams. However within the safety of the temple's walls, Hitomi tossed and turned in her bed. Although sleep had claimed her under it's spell some time ago, it was a restless and uncomfortable sleep.
Hitomi stood on a black plain surround and clouded by a dense fog. This, she knew, was how her dreamlike visions usually began/ Perhaps this plain was the realm between realities. A place where time did not flow in a linear fashion. She could feel the familiar tug as the fog around her began to swirl and twist changing into different colours and shapes, transforming the blackness into images. Images of people, places, creatures, and all things painted themselves on the black canvas all around her. Some of these which she had never seen before. None of it appeared to make any sense. The images just kept spinning around her as if unable to decide which one she was supposed to see. Then, as quickly as it had begun, the spinning stopped. The world around her settled on one distinct image.
The clarity of her vision startled her at first. Perhaps it was the magic of Caladonna enhancing her abilities. Once the shock wore off, her heart stopped as she recognized the familiar city of Palas, the Asturian Capitol. However, it was not as she remembered it at all. Night claimed the sky, but the city was bathed in fire. Flames climbed high claiming many of the buildings for their own. It was complete and utter chaos. She looked around her heat dropping as looked at the carnage all around her. People lay dead in the street, burnt or covered in blood. It was a massacre.
She heard the unmistakable roar of a dragon coming from somewhere behind her. She slowly turned. Her eyes opened wide as they beheld the sight before her. Behind her, was one of the largest creatures she had ever seen. Even larger than the dragon she had watched Van take down when they first met. It's face was contorted into a snarl, dark smoke curling up from it's nostrils. It's scales were dark, a muddy grey colour while it's eyes glowed a demonic red colour. It's wings were spread in a stance of pride and triumph. Large horns curled down from the back of it's head much like a ram's would. The shine of something metallic upon the dragon's back caught her immediate attention.
It was as if her vision was responding to her thoughts, because as soon as she noticed it, the vision moved her closer. Seated upon a the dragon's back was a hand with short silver hair and crimson eyes. A maniacal smile stretched across his features. Her heart pounded in her chest and her breath caught in her throat as recognition flashed in her mind, "Dilandau," She found herself utter aloud. However, this version of Dilandau was much more muscular and appeared to be much older. His features were also slightly different, but she could still spot Van's former nemesis. Her eyes fell to his scarlet armour and she felt her jaw drop. Upon his breastplate, the Arathnian crest was worn proudly. "That's impossible," She stated in disbelief.
The scene shifted slightly revealing the lone figure standing at the dragon's feel. Her heart stopped as she gazed upon the badly beaten and bloodied form of her lover. Van held his sword tightly in his hands as he stood defiantly in front of the terrifying creature. He glared up at the man Hitomi could only refer to as Dilandau. "It's me you want," He yelled up to him. "Leave these people alone you coward! Come down here and fight me like a man!" He yelled angrily. "I will not go without a fight."
The man a top the dragon smirked, "Brahne said she wanted you back," He replied amused by the rage in Van's voice. Hitomi was slightly confused as the man's voice failed to resemble Dilandau's. It was much deeper. He chuckled as his eyes flashed dangerously. "She never said in what condition," He continued his tone mocking.
With that said, the dragon reeled it's head back before snapping forward at lightning speed and catching the young king it it's jaws. Hitomi gasped and lurched forward, "Van!" She cried out running towards the image. However, as soon as she neared, it vanished completely leaving her in the blackness once more.
She looked around frantically, desperate for the conclusion. She needed to know what came next. She spun around over and over praying for the image to return and play out in it's entirety. However, the blackness remained. She ran her hands through her hair cursing in frustration. "I can't let that happen," She stated collapsing to her knees, "I won't," She added feeling an intense pain in her chest. The thought of Van at the mercy of Dilandau and the horned dragon was almost too much for her. She took a deep breath in order to calm herself from her near panic attack, but it did not seem to do anything. She closed her eyes tightly, wrapping her arms around herself attempting to erase the image from her mind.
When she opened them again, she was surprised to see the blackness around her had brought forth a new vision. She was in a desert. Confusion etched itself on her face as she slid her fingers under the hot sand letting it slip through her fingers. It was yellow in colour. It took a moment for that to register. It was then that she recognized her surroundings. "Dragonsand," She mumbled pushing herself to her feet. She could feel the sun blazing down upon her and she was already beginning to sweat. This vision seemed too real. She looked around at the vast area around her. There was nothing in sight. Nothing but sand and rock. A sigh pitched shriek resounded through the air. Hitomi winced dropping to her knees and covering her ears at the intense sound.
"Run Hitomi," A deep and strange male voice whispered in her ear. "You are in grave danger."
She looked around and found no source for the voice. "Who's there?" She called feeling the hairs on the back of her neck stand on end. Something was not right, this was not a vision. It was as if someone had transported her here.
"Run!" The voice repeated only much louder. It echoed around her at a deafening volume.
Hitomi winced throwing her hands up to cover her ears. She blinked and in and instant she was back in her room at the temple. She tossed the thin blacked off of her and sat up. She was drenched in sweat, her clothes sticking to her. She was wide awake. She pinched the bridge of her nose in frustration as she noticed that everyone around her was sleeping peacefully. She cursed wiping the thick sweat from her brow. "What is going on with me?" She growled out turning to gaze out the window. The two moons hung high in the sky lighting the world with a blueish hue. "Why is this happening?" She wondered aloud before sighing and lying back down. However, she knew sleep would not come any time soon.
AN: Wow, that was a long time coming. I hope you enjoyed that. I lost some motivation but I think that I'm back now. Please show your support in a review. It makes it easier to keep me focused and working hard to finish this story. Just so you know, we've barely scratched the surface of this whole thing. Plenty more drama and secrets ahead, so stay tuned.
Next: Exposed: The Truth Pours Out Pt. 2