Looking softly at the young king, Millerna involuntarily lifted her hand. She dropped it again, and nodded. Putting the hood of her cloak back on, Millerna looked at her sister. She nodded silently, and prepared herself for Escaflowne's appearance, then the ride of her life. She looked over at Hitomi Can she ride fast enough with an injured shoulder? After a moment, her violet gaze turned to the cat girl. "M-Merle" she tried, and the cat girl gave her a glare. "Do you want to ride with me?" she tried quietly, feeling a pang of vulnerability and guilt. Biting her lip, and bracing herself for the harsh 'no', Millerna steeled her eyes and played with the reins in her hands.

Yukari jerked suddenly. Who is that??? She brushed her hands across her eyes to fix her blurry vision. Not knowing what to do she stared up blankly at the figure in front of her. “Where-“ Yukari opened her mouth to speak but her voice came out in more like a screech because of the hefty lump in her throat. After much forethought she gathered up enough audacity to try to say something to the mysterious man again. “Where....where AM I?” Yukari quickly let out as if more of a demand then a question. I – I don’t like it here at all. I- I want to go home. She slowly backed away and waited for an answer. This anomalous and baffling land that she was in still worried her. Every second of the long awkward moment was agonizing terror. What doe he want with me?...

"No," Van said, looking across the field. His brown eyes were dark and calculating. The calmness in his own voice surprised him. He looked down at Hitomi. Her eyes were full of worry and concern. "Stay with the others," he said quietly. "When I begin the fight I want all of you to be as far away as possible, out of range of flame or shrapnel."
Her face paled slightly but she nodded wordlessly. She still looked drained from the knife wound. Van glanced back over his shoulder and met Merle's eyes.

...Will you go with her?

Van dismounted. He looked across the field again. ...Can't waste any more time. Every minute counts now.
He turned to and gave Hitomi a small smile. He hoped he looked more confident than he felt. "I'll see you in Asturia," he said. He fought an odd urge to... to comfort her in some way, to do something to assuage her worry. But he didn't want to embrace her. If he did...
Van turned a little too quickly to face the two Princeses. "When you get to Asturia you should contact Allen's crew. They'll provide a means of escaping Asturia as well as some help in the rescue." Van turned back to Hitomi and the urge came over him again, twice as strong. He forced himself to ignore it. He helped Hitomi mount the horse. He stepped back from the group and took a deep breath.

"Ready?"

*Looking around from the open field at the forest area frustratedly* When are my victims going to come?! They're taking their sweet time! I wonder how long I've been standing here?! Two hours or so, maybe? *Flips the guymelef's scope over his right eye and peers out at the city a few miles away from him in the darkening sky* Should it take this long for the Scientists to block the sun? It won't make any difference whether its night or day, Van and his little brigade won't be able to see me anyways.

*Turns back to the forests and searches for anything, but cannot see through the clumps of trees.* I guess there's no chance of me finding them early, I'll just have to wait till they come out of the forest... if they ever do. *Sighs and relaxes himself in the cockpit* I bet they probably set up camp somewhere. Folken better not be expecting me to wait out the whole day for them, I might as well just burn the forest down to flush them out.

"Wait a minute, everyone," Hitomi held up her hands, "What we need to do first is to coordinate our efforts. Right now we have the advantage of surprise, since he's unaware that we know he's out there. The minute I summon Escaflowne, he'll know he's been discovered and he'll move to attack. Millerna-san, Eries-san," she turned to the Princesses, "once Escaflowne appears take off as fast as you can for Asturia. Escaflowne should present enough of a diversion for you to escape. Merle, you're going to have to ride with them now. O.K.?"

Hitomi jumped down from the horse and looked up at Van. I want to stay with him, but I don't want to end up being a hindrance either. "He's cloaked right now and he'll probably stay that way. You may need me to tell you where to move..." Her heart was pounding in her chest. He'll make me go with them, I know it, but I don't want to leave him. If anything ever happened to him I-...I don't think I could bear it...

Millerna's hand flew to her mouth.

Father! How could you?? What is this for? To protect us? From who though? Yourself? We're not children. Yet your fall will be the same as Marlene Allen...

She gazed at Van. It's all on you, Van-sama. I-I'm sorry. She almost understood how Van felt, but she turned her gaze to Hitomi. "A red guymelef?" she echoed softly. "Van..." Millerna said half to herself, half to the young king. "Hitomi and Merle are injured. You need to protect them... If any..."situations" arise...." Millerna looked at her sister with wide violet eyes. "We know where we stand." Is this just to defy father? Or is this... Is this something else? "We're capable of riding away... And we can hide among the trees if necessary. This is our country, we know it well." she added to assure Van. Smiling wryly to herself, she thought Millerna Sara Aston, are you beginning to grow up finally?

The red guymelef.
The one that had captured him when they'd made the escape to Asturia. The one with the pilot whose face he'd scarred.

Dilandau.

Van felt Hitomi's arms tighten about his waist. Her green eyes were wide. He unconsciously put a reassuring arm aorund her. He stared across the peaceful looking field. It was oddly dark for this time of day. But it made visibility difficult. He supposed the guymelef was cloaked anyway. A chill ran up his spine. They would never see it coming...just like in the clearing.
Van's jaw tightened. His gaze traveled to Millerna and Eries, who were positioned close. How could...
Van leaned close to Hitomi and said softly, "Do you know for sure that it is waiting for us?" Part of him knew the answer already. The dread in Hitomi's eyes was answer enough. Van gritted his teeth and looked across the clearing. "Hitomi...can you summon Escaflowne?" We've got to get to Allen...but even if I change it to flight mode I can't carry them all...and fat chance Dilandau's going to give me enough time to gather everybody. What can I do...? His gaze was dark.
Whatever happens... I'll do what I must to protect them.

Hitomi looked up at Van, Oh, put the damn barn behind you, will you? We have more important things to do now!. She wrapped her arms around his waist and overlapped them with Merle's and buried her head in his chest. She spoke with out looking up, "Do what you have to do."

She felt him readjust and then cry out as he slapped the reigns on the horse. The horse took off like a shot. They hurried down the road for a time until they reached the forest's edge. Beyond the trees lay an open field. Hitomi looked down, noticing that her pendant had begun to glow once more. She gasped and squeezed Van tightly, "Stop the horse! Millerna-san, Eries-san, stop! Don't go into that field! There's something there." The sound of the horses could be heard as they were suddenly pulled to a stop. She closed her eyes and concentrated, "It's on the opposite side of the field right where the forest starts up again." The image sent an all too familiar feeling of dread. She had seen this before...when Fanelia was destroyed. Hitomi looked up at Van her mouth dry she whispered, "It's a guymelef. A red guymelef."

Sliding forwards on the horse Merle took her usual position for high speeds. Careful not to hold on too tight she did her best to synchronize their movements. She was really not looking forward to slamming her head against his spine again… they had both paid dearly for that one. But since then there had been practice, just the two of them… but practice none the less. Oi… this should be awkward. I just hope Hitomi will let Van-sama hold her… did I just think that? I did.
… I want Van-sama to hold the mystic.
I need more sleep.

"What?" Van's face went white. Hitomi's words struck him like blows. Allen...surrounded by men...they're beating him...he's trying to protect us...
Van was gripping the reigns so hard his hand went numb. The price for protection is very high...Goddamn you, Allen. It shouldn't be you in there. Van fought back a white hot rush of anger. "We have to get to him as fast as possible," he said, his voice low and calm.
Millerna's eyes were very wide. Van said quietly, "Allen is a good swordsman and a strong fighter. Don't worry, Millerna, we'll get to him in time."
Van glanced back at Merle. "We've got to gallop--there's no time to lose. Hold on to me."
And then he turned his attention to Hitomi. She was probably really pissed off at him. They hadn't spoken a word since the barn. This was going to be bad...
"Hitomi," he said softly, "I need to have you closer to me so that we won't smash together when the horse picks up the pace." He tentatively lifted his hand from her waist, but left it hovering close to it. His voice was very quiet. "...Can I...?"
I'm such an oaf. She'd probably knee me in the face if she got the chance. And I'd deserve it, too. He wanted to apologize...but he couldn't quite bring himself to do it. Such a bloody oaf...Mother would've-- Van forcefully silenced the thought. He was shaken. I haven't done that in years...what was I...? Stop this, Van. Keep your mind on task. There's a Caeli Knight to rescue and you have yet to get to Asturia.
Van fought the urge to run a hand over his face. Should really have gotten more sleep last night...

Light splintered across dark.
He was thrown back with the force of the blows. He caught himself before he could fall, barely feeling the pain anymore. Blackness swirled at the edges of his vision but he forced himself to stay conscious. No more blows fell.
They had retreated again.
He had grown used to the taste of iron in his mouth. Allen watched them warily, hating how he couldn’t watch them all at once. They were like a pack of wolves—waiting for him to make a mistake. They stood around him, dark figures in the dim light. The sound of his own breathing was hoarse. His hair was hanging in his eyes. His damn hair!
Allen slowly wiped the blood from his mouth.

If only I had a sword...then I’d kill the lot of you.

His head was throbbing with every beat of his heart. There was no major damage—they had been careful about that. They were brutes, the lot of them—but they were persistent. He had to give them that.
He heard a light shuffle behind him. Allen whirled--but too slow. An elbow slammed into the side of his head, sending him reeling across the circle. There was a movement and Allen blocked the first punch, but not the second. Pain exploded in his side, and he almost lost his balance, but regained it. He ducked as another man came out of the shadows. He drove his fist hard into the other’s stomach. But there was no time to relish the satisfying thud of the impact. Something slammed into the back of his head, drove him to his knees. Allen went down seeing stars.
“Back off him,” he heard someone say. It sounded like the King. There were muttered words. “--Gatsu, don’t let this get out of hand. What I want is information. And that’s what you’ll get paid for...” The voice moved away.
Allen raised his head and looked up. A tall, lanky man with dark hair and pale, cruel eyes stared down at him. Without warning the man kicked him hard in the ribs. Allen doubled over, fighting the urge to lash out. He gritted his teeth.
The man said, “Allen Schezar, you know what we want. Just give it to us. There’s no point in making this go on further. Just tell old Gatsu what you know and then this’ll be just a memory. You want that, don’t you?”
Allen stared at him, his face blank and his eyes like ice.
“You won’t get anything from me.”
There was an amused murmur from the men. “Brave words…”
There was a slight pause.
“Such pretty hair...” Gatsu said suddenly, with a too wide-smile. He brutally slammed his foot into Allen's stomach, driving the breath from him. Gasping, Allen involuntarily curled forward.
Smiling, Gatsu wrapped Allen’s hair around his fist. He yanked Allen’s head back, viciously slamming his knee into the Knight’s upper back. Allen bit back any sound he might make.
He suddenly felt the cold press of a blade to his exposed throat. He stared up into Gatsu’s pale eyes, his own gaze hard and cold. “You can’t do it," he said hoarsely, his voice barely audible. His mouth pulled into what could have been a smile. You can’t kill the informant. And Gatsu knew it.
Gatsu made a small growling sound deep in his throat. He pulled Allen’s hair hard enough to tear it out of his scalp. He didn’t stop until he saw Allen flinch. He shoved his face close to Allen’s and glared down at him. “Oh, you’ll wish I had soon enough. Don’t you worry about that,” he hissed.
Allen felt the blade bite into his flesh. Warm blood ran down his neck. For one more moment he held Gatsu’s gaze, his own gaze hard and full of challenge. Gatsu suddenly flung him forward. He landed on his elbows on the hard stone floor.

Allen fought back the pain and raised his eyes to where the rest of the men stood, silent and motionless. He stood up, his jaw tight, waiting for another onslaught.
Gatsu uttered a mirthless laugh and said from behind him, “Ah yes, always ready to face your enemies, aren’t you? Like a good knight. Full of honour and foolish pride.” Allen slowly turned to face him. Gatsu’s smile was full of teeth. He was holding what looked like a leather bag. Allen felt himself go cold. He had been expecting this…but somehow he’d thought the King wouldn't let it happen. He should have known better.
Gatsu continued to smile. “I always wanted to see what you’d look like without your pretty face…” And he unrolled the leather. Metal shone in the light...

OOC: Now, wasn't that fun? @__@ This is going to get nasty in a little while...where's the rescue?? ^^

Folken was circling over the forest looking for the girl that Dornkirk told him of. I hope everything went well for Nariya and Eriya. Preoccupied with his thoughts of the two cat girls, he almost missed the girl in a small clearing. Taking care not to startle her, Folken landed the guymelef a little outside the clearing.

He stood in the trees for a minute, watching the dark haired girl. She was alone and frightened. He knew what to do.

He stepped into the clearing slowly. I must persuade her to come back to the Vione with me. “Good day m’lady,” he said bowing low.

Riding on her horse silently, Eries closed her eyes in regret as she heard those words. 'I may have had reason to doubt that girl, but now...' She quickly reopened them, keeping her eyes on the path ahead.

'My silence to Millerna is nothing to be read into... I simply need to think. Unfortunately, this siutation does not permit me to find my own solace - thus, I'll sacrifice manners for reflection.'

She continued to ride in silence. The younger ones were still in awe of Hitomi's words. Eries merely accepted them in defeat.

"Millerna-san!"

Damn, she heard me. Hitomi felt a pang of guilt invade her stomach. She wondered if she should spare Millerna or tell her what she saw accurately. Well, this should help with motivation,"Allen-san's surrounded by a group of men. They're beating him. I have no idea why and they keep shouting at him, asking him questions that he won't answer. I think he's remaining silent to protect us. He's holding his ground, but I don't think he can do it for much longer. We have to get there as soon as we can."

As if the girl was confirming her thoughts, Millerna heard someone-- no make that Hitomi say that Allen was being tortured. Without waiting for Eries' answer, as there was really no point anymore, Millerna sped her horse up until she was right beside Van's horse. Slowing her horse back to it's lazy, clopping pace, Millerna looked at Hitomi with large, frightened violet eyes. "What did you say about Allen?" Oblivious to Van and Merle, Millerna asked again, almost pleadingly. "Hitomi, what has my father done to Allen?" Everything else seemed to become silent, and the only thing Millerna could hear was her own heart beating.

Father....How could you? Some things are not meant to be heard.

Hitomi's head bobbed up and down with the bumps in the road. She was drifting in and out of sleep while trying desperately not to let her head fall against Van's chest. There had been no words between them since the incident in the barn, and she was still angry with him and she figured he still was with her. She did her best to make her head fall in the opposite direction, it was working but it would eventually lead to a very nasty kink in her neck and she knew it.

She closed her eyes once more. Images began to appear in her mind. Images of Allen Schezar...

Her eyes flew open and her head shot upward, nearly clipping Van's jaw.

"He's being tortured..." she whispered to herself, tears filled her eyes.

Nariya turned and leaped onto the window sill. She made a small derisive noise and gave the King a cold glance over her shoulder.
"It is not necessary for you to know," she said. "Carry out your orders and there will be no reason for you to question me." Nariya's voice became quiet and hard.
"...And no reason for me to ever set my eyes upon you again." And with that she slipped out the window and disappeared, as silently as she had come.

The cat-woman's eyes were dark and full of secrets. But there was some strange amusement in her gaze as well. Aston stepped back from her.
The message could only come from the Strategos...this cat-woman is one of his right hands.
Aston opened the envelope and read the message. Folken is commanding me to arrest the party that will be entering Asturia. But the question is...who will be in that party? I will not follow these commands if Zaibach has destroyed...I can't even bring myself to imagine it. My daughters have to be alive...
Aston raised his eyes to the cat woman's. "What knowledge do you have of the members of the party?"
Some part of him dreaded the answer, but some part of him had to know. Was what he was doing right? Or had he thrown away what little honour remained to him when he opened Allen Schezar's cell and let in those men?
Or have I lost it all already...?

Nariya watched as the Asturian King sat down at his desk, rubbing his eyes almsot wearily. Her eyes caught even the slightest bit of emotion in his body.
Nariya smirked. Silly man. He would be under Folken-sama's rule as soon as the Dragon was found. And then all his efforts would be for naught. It was useless trying to fight against a Strategos such as Folken-sama. Aston would learn that soon enough.
Nariya soundlessly stepped into view of the King. She had been standing in the shadows near the window, and as she emerged, the light reflected off her silver fur. The King started, though not violently. He was a calculating man, she thought to herself, watching him closely.
Nariya remained motionless and unthreatening for a moment. Then she bowed her head slightly. She extended a sealed envelope in his direction. "A direct message from the Zaibach Strategos to King Aston of Asturia. Read it and take heed of its commands." Nariya raised her head as he rose and took the envelope from her. She smelled blood in the air around him. What can it be...? It isn't his scent...not his blood. Then...whose? Perhaps the levels of calculation in this man run deeper than I thought...

*Stoping by his room, he pulled out a spare uniform from his closet and put it on then walked back out* Grrr.. sending me to do menial tasks. *Glowers at the thought* Those Scientists are a bunch of freaks. I don't know where we get these people from.. *Shrugs as he's walking down the hall to the Scientists' lab* And those stupid cat beasts, I hope we aren't teaching them to think they're higher than humans or something. They're just looking to get tortured. *Growls thinking about the silver one that addressed him without any thought of the consequences* I'll just have to find something to do with her. She deserves her reward for her ignorance..

*Walking through the lab doors he spotted the top Scientist and walked up to him* It's time to blot out the sun. Folken gives you the "OK" to start the procedure. Also, *With an annoyed look* he wants you guys to start preparing the Enhanced Luck Soldier formula for the two animals. Like it would do them any better. *The Freaky Scientist nods silently and turns to go tell the others what to do.* *Turns around and walks to the docking bay while saying quite sarcastically* Looks like I'm going to have SUCH a fun time in the forest waiting to not kill anyone. *Grins psychotically* I haven't seen my little Vaaa~n in a while. I'd rather not just chase him around, it would be soo much nicer to kill him off..*Grins* and have him stuff and displayed in the burnt down Fanelia Kingdom. I'm sure it'll be a great help for the kingdom's reconstruction, a nice decorative art statue.

Every muscle in Hitomi's body went rigid. She didn't want to be anywhere near him now, especially after the way he had just spoken to her. And now she couldn't be any closer to him. Why the hell was that necessary? I was perfectly fine where I was. And to think I only agreed to this riding situation for his sake. How dare he treat me like some rag doll! Argh! Hitomi focused her eyes straight ahead of her not wanting to even give that brute a single look. She watched the Princesses riding not too far away.

Wish I went for my own horse now. I don't know why I need an escort anyway. And some escort at that! It's too bad he can't be more like Escaflowne. At least he knows how to treat me. He's kind and civil not arrogant and brainless. I thought he said his arms would become real. I hope they do. He's the only one who truly understands what I'm going through. He's the only one who gives a damn.

Hitomi turned her head to look at the road beyond the horse. She felt a sudden apprehension pass over her. Something's out there waiting for us. I can feel it...but what?

Softly singing to herself a song her mother used to sing to her and her sisters, Millerna held the reins loosely in her hands.

She sings the wind chant,
And love she shan't,
Her heart has wings,
And still she sings,
Yet still alone,
The coldness' grown,
Her eyes look down,
Snowflakes as her crown.

It's silly to hang on to memories like that, Millerna chided herself. Her violet eyes sharpened slightly, and she looked ahead at the threesome, and a wry smile appeared on Millerna's features, after overhearing the bickering going on in front. She then moved her gaze to her sister who was riding beside her, then back to her horse. Without removing her gaze from her horse, she quietly asked Eries "What do you think father will do?... Has done?" Is this a question I know the answer to? That I want an answer to? The gentle movement of the horse relaxed the princess slightly, and she waited for her sister's answer.

"We. Are. Leaving. Now," Van ground out through clenched teeth. He leaned over, grabbed Hitomi, ignored her outraged cry, and hauled her up in front of him. He plunked her down and growled,"I am not interested in sitting between the two of you while you bicker!" He glared first at Hitomi and then at the smug cat-girl behind him. "There will be no ass-kickings today unless you plan on going through me." He glared at Hitomi, who looked like she seriously wanted to punch him. "Ride sidesaddle if you want to preserve your underwear," he told her as he took a firm grip on the reigns. "But don't complain to me when your ass starts to hurt."
Oh that's good, Van, alienate her. She'll really tell you what's bothering her now!
He urged the horse forward, biting back a number of choice curses. The normally pleasant movements of the horse beneath him were now irritating. Hitomi was sitting too far in front of him, and he didn't want to have to deal with abnormal changes in weight while he was riding. Using one hand to hold the reigns Van put one arm around her waist and roughly pulled her close to him.
The brief feeling of triumph was quicky quashed when he realized just what he had done. Oh shit...

Hitomi glared at the cat-girl but decided to take her anger out on Van instead. She turned to him and yelled, "It's easy for you, you're wearing pants and I can't really say I'm going to be thrilled with that horse hair tearing a hole into my underwear!. Move over, Merle maybe you can sit on my lap."

“There is no way I’m getting into that saddle! It’s all slippy and small. I’m gonna sit on the horses ass like I always do! There I can move around and not sit on dead cow. Ok?!”
Softening her voice she added “Me and dead cow don’t mix.“ With that the nimble cat-girl leapt onto the back of the large animal, sat down and folded her arms across her chest in a decidedly resolute manner. A smirk graced her features. “Gonna argue with me mystic?”
Her smirk turned into a full-out fang-filled grin. “Cause I can soooo kick your ass!”
[OOC: Kywraith- now's the time for snatching Hitomi up!]

Hitomi looked up at him and frowned, "Are you sure we're all going to fit in one saddle?"

[OOC: *points frantically to message board* Kywraith! Read!]

Van pulled himself up into the saddle, momentarily ignoring the two below him. He touched the horse's neck and it turned its head and glanced at him. Sorry, pal, but you're going to have to carry three passengers today. One corner of his mouth quirked wryly. Though I expect that will be the least of our problems...
Suddenly itching to start going, Van said brusquely, "Come on, let's go. We've wasted enough time already. Hitomi, I doubt Merle wants to be squashed in between the two of us, and I really don't want to listen to her if she is." Van shot a glance at Merle, trying to keep his mouth from twitching. He extended his hand to Hitomi. "Come on, the Princesses are waiting for us." He smiled, but his eyes were dark, "...and so is Allen."

Wha? Why is she resisting being near him? I don't get it. You think she would have jumped at the opportunity."Oh, no, I don't mind if you elbow me. I insist. We don't want you falling off the back."

Staring dumbly ahead at the sign of affection it took the disoriented cat-girl a moment to respond. She really isn’t so bad… I guess there are worse people Van-sama could be with. Deciding it would be worse to be stuck between two star-crossed-lovers than to witness their closeness, Merle shook her head. “That’s ok Hitomi. I fidget a lot… can never stay in one place. I’d be better on the back.“
“You don’t want an elbow in the gut do ya?”

Hitomi embraced Merle merrily from behind, "You'll be coming with us, Merle," She motioned for Van to get on the horse, "After you, Van, I'm sure Merle would be really happy to sit behind you."

Finding herself just outside of the stables Merle mentally steeled herself. Gods, I don’t want to have to ride alone, please don’t make me ride alone… On second thought, I don’t want to be squished either.
...
Please let there be a really big horse.
Merle walked, almost naturally, into the stables, and up to Van and Hitomi.
“so… where do I go?”

Dornkirk sat back from his telescope once more. "Ah, yes, Folken. I've summoned you here because I have a special task just for you. But before I tell you that, I'll explain to you exactly why I want your brother's companion.

Long ago, when Gaea was young, there was a vast empire that stretched from ocean to ocean. The empire was very prosperous and advanced for its time. In the empire's army there was a great general, who had one the empire many victories and took many lands in its name. This general was given a gift for his devotion and heroism. That gift was the Ispano guymelef, Escaflowne. I see the confusion in your eyes, but don't worry; it'll will all become clear. The general used the guymelef to further the interests of the empire. But soon, he grew weary of serving the empire and wished to help those people he enslaved under their rule. Unfortunately, his pursuit of this goal was unsuccessful, until one night. A great white pillar of light appeared in the sky from the far away Mystic Moon. The pillar had brought with it a woman with the gift of divination. The general befriended her and then his battles against the empire became more successful and the woman's powers increased, especially when near the Escaflowne. A bond had formed between her and the guymelef.

Despite the general's success, it was still not enough to defeat his enemies. And then, one day, the guymelef called to the maiden and revealed to her its true form. What lay sleeping inside the Escaflowne, was a source of ultimate power. A god-like power, capable of destroying or saving the entire world. His heart ruled by one: the maiden. It was her desire that the empire be destroyed, and in accordance with that wish, the guymelef joined with the general, giving him all its power. Only then was he able to defeat the empire and win freedom for his people. But this victory came with a price. He did not survive the battle, taking Escaflowne into his body proved deadly.

Before his death, he gave rights to the guymelef to his servant, Ruuh Avalon de Fanel, the first king of Fanelia. The maiden returned to the Mystic Moon, and with its love gone, Escaflowne changed back to its guymelef form to lay dormant for the next ten thousand years.

Now the maiden has returned and the Escaflowne's powers have begun to emerge once more. We must try and convince the maiden of our cause, and our vision. Only then can we win the Escaflowne to our side. Then no one can stand in our way.

Now this leads me to my task for you. A short time ago, another pillar of light appeared in the sky. Another girl has emerged and I would like you to find her personally. I sense similar powers in this girl as I do your brother's companion. And if his companion refuses us, we may be able to summon the Escaflowne with this other girl. She is in a forest just outside of Freid. Find her and bring her to me and keep her from seeing the other girl when you return."

Dornkirk watched the you man accept his orders and turn to leave, "Folken, make a positive impression on the girl. A very positive one."

[OOC: Sorry for the monster post, the prophecy has a lot to it and even that isn't the whole story. Gotta leave it to Escaflowne to fill in some of the gaps ^_^]

Millerna tugged her hood forward slightly so it shaded her violet eyes. Patting the horse gently on it’s nose, she hoisted herself on top, and gathered the reins in her right hand. She leant down slightly, and murmured gently to the horse, in a slight reverie. Biting her lip worriedly, she looked off into the horizon. Gods, Millerna. Could you be any more desolate? Snap out of it, you’re on your way to save Allen. You know he’s safe.
But for how long? You know how your father can be… A shadow flickered over the young princess’ face for a brief instant, but then her face was neutrel once again, showing no emotion. It wasn't the time to be so selfish, she should be caring for those that were there. She looked back at the stable door and promised herself she would care for them. It's not your duty her father's voice echoed. Her violet eyes darkened slightly, and she looked down at the horse's neck. I will help them.

...Wait for me Allen, please.

Hitomi pondered his suggestion for a moment, Well, I may not get to tell him what I wanted to, but it would be better this way. In case the invitable happens, he'll need her. I'm not sure how he'll handle it, but it will be a comfort to have her there regardless of how much this will affect him.

"Sounds like a good idea," she said pleasantly.

She was blocking him out. He could feel it, see it in her eyes. Van stared into her emerald eyes for another moment, trying to read what was truly in them, and then he said, "Yes. We're as ready as we're going to get." Which is so far from ready...we're riding with two sheltered Princesses, a broken cat-girl, and a weary outcast from the Mystic Moon. And me. He made himself stop thinking there. There was no point in wallowing in self pity. This not the time or the place for it.
Nor was it the time or place for those thoughts. Van's cheeks tingled. He forced down the blush and made his face look impassive.
"Oh, yes, I had something else to ask you. I was wondering if Merle could ride with us instead of Millerna. What do you think?"
He glanced over at the Princesses. They were leading their horses outside. It was almost time. Van felt a knot of trepidation form in his stomach. He ignored it.
"She says it isn't really necessary...she would just prefer it. So it doesn't really matter what we choose. Don't worry about it too much." Van watched her eyes. She seems like she's got this big weight on her shoulders. Well maybe getting Allen back will lighten it a little. I hope...

Who is he? What is he? And why does he make me feel this way?

She hadn't been aware of Van until his hand closed over hers to help her brush. Her hand stopped in surprise, and she dropped the brush on the floor, "Oh, I'm sorry Van," she stooped down to retrieve it, "Thanks, for helping me." She turned to face him. His eyes seemed full of concern. Hitomi fought down a terribly strong urge to throw her arms around him. To tell him everything that had happened after she entered the stable. She wanted to feel that calmness he had given her again. I'm sorry, Van, but I can't tell you. You wouldn't understand. Even I don't understand, and there's no reason to make you worry.

She smiled softly at him, "Are we ready?"

After making a new splint for Merle, Van made his way to the stables. It was dark inside. The smell of horse, hay, and urine permeated the air.
He looked up and saw shapes moving in the dimness. It was Millerna and Eries, at the far end of the room, saddling their horses. He walked past several stalls and suddenly saw Hitomi. She was absently brushing a large tan horse. Her mind was obviously elsewhere. On what? Or...on who.
Van wasn't so sure how much he trusted this voice that claimed to be Escaflowne...but he did trust Hitomi's judgment. If she said it was Escaflowne, it must be. But that didn't mean he had to like it.
He came towards her. She didn't seem to notice him approaching. He put a hand on her shoulder.
"Hitomi?...you look uneasy. If there's something wrong..." Van felt his ears get warm, but he didn't back off. "...well, you can tell me."
Something was bothering her. There was something in her eyes now that hadn't been there before...something resigned? He didn't know. Trying to look nonchalant, he put his hand over hers and guided the brush to a place she hadn't brushed yet.
What could have happened? And then a darker thought came to him. What could she have seen...?

"Shall we go to the stables?" Millerna asked her sister, and with a silent reply 'yes', the two sisters made their way to the horses. Millerna's mouth opened slightly in awe when she noticed a noble steed with a dark mahogany coat standing there in one of the stalls. About to make her way over to that horse to saddle it up, she stumbled into something.
Make that a someone. "Hitomi??!" the princess asked with a confused expression on her face. "What are you doing there?" Bending down slightly to reach Hitomi's level, the princess put her hand to the girl's forehead. I don't think she's sick still... Maybe it's best that Van rides with her. Giving Hitomi one more concerned look, Millerna hesistantly added "I-I'm going to saddle up my horse. If you need anything..." she trailed off. Millerna grabbed a dark grey cloak from a peg on the wall, and put it on, the hood hiding her long blonde hair. Van I hope you take care of her.

Hitomi stood in the doorway of the stables. She gazed up at Earth in the sky.

Home...

She hadn't thought of it since Van had mentioned it to her. "You shouldn't be involved, Hitomi. You don't have to be here. You have family back home, don't you? ...Waiting for you?"

But I'm not going home...I'm going to be a permanent resident here, until that unfortunate encounter with the horse.

"Wow, I'm all alone, "she murmured the realization setting in, "Completely alone." Images of her family flashed in her mind. Her mother, father, brother...Yukari. "Yukari, I'll never see any of you again," tears brimmed her eyes once more.

Maiden, a familiar voice soft and low entered her mind , thou art never alone. I am with thee always.

Hitomi smiled and wiped her tears away, "Thank you, Escaflowne. Tell me, when my time comes, will you take me away?"

Aye, Lady, I shall.

She wrapped her arms around herself, "Then I look forward to the meeting."

She again felt the warm sensation of another pair of arms wrap around her. She was drawn backward into an embrace. What felt like a face settled into her shoulder. What felt like lips lightly kissed her neck. Hitomi felt her knees weakening beneath her. That warm breath made her heart beat wildly and her cheeks burn.If only those arms were real.

They soon shall be...

Hitomi's eyes flew open. She caught herself on the ground as the presence left her. Sitting herself down on the stone floor, she drew her knees up to her chin to collect herself, "Wow.."

Feeling like a fool, Merle cleaned the remnants of her tears from her face. I’m being such a baby… this always happens when I’m tired. I make a fuss out of nothing.
Looking up at Van’s face Merle was struck by a realization. I’m not the only one he has to look after now. She set a smile in place while internally reprimanding herself for her selfishness. “Hey, I don’t know if three of us can stay on a horse together. Why don’t you go and have a look at the horses. Talk to Hitomi too, if you guys think there is room I’m game. But if not, the old princess’s ok...
Or I could ride on my own! Remember when you taught me! I’m sure I’m a little better by now - it’ll be fun.” Internally grimacing at the memories, Merle mentally damned the stubborn pony to hell… again.
Re-directing her red-rimmed eyes towards her exhausted Van-sama, Merle shoved her ankle in his face. “Lord Van? Fix it so we can get going, ok?”

“No Dilandau, no one is to die. Do you understand me?” Folken was rather irritated with the fact that his orders were being questioned. However, like usual his emotions never surfaced. “Now go prepare for your mission. I must go speak with Dornkirk.” Folken got up and crossed to the door. Pausing before he opened it, he gave Dilandau another quick order. “I want you to go and tell the scientists that it is time to block out the sun. This mission will be easier in a cloak of darkness. Also tell them to prepare the Enhanced Luck Soldier serum.

A few moments later he stepped into the dim communications room. “Yes Lord Dornkirk. You have summoned me,” he said, giving a quick bow.

He couldn't bear the sight of her tears. He grabbed her hands and sat up.
"Merle...I..." Words suddenly failed him as Merle's tears broke and ran down her face.
I'm all she has...and I've been focusing on Hitomi. I'm such a fool!
Van pulled her to him and crushed her to his chest. "Of course I still love you!" he said feircely. He clenched his eyes shut and whispered in her ear, "You're my family now, Merle... I'll never abandon you again. Ever! If anything ever happened to you..." his words choked off. He held her tight, trying to banish the remembered smell of fire from his nostrils.
He finally released her. He gently wiped the tears from her cheeks. He smiled at her, trying to look calm and reassuring. He stroked her hair. "This might be a dangerous mission...perhaps you shouldn't be riding with Millerna after all." He smiled at her slyly. "So I guess you'll have to ride with me and Hitomi." Seeing the look on her face he said quietly, "Hitomi's still a little bit uneasy lately...I have to keep her close. This prophecy stuff makes me really nervous. So...can you handle being on a horse with us for a couple of hours?"

Hitomi wandered into the stable. There were several horses in the stalls; however, the stable on the whole seemed rather empty.

She stepped into one of the stables and gazed at the light tan coat of the horse. The horse in turn studied her with its brown eyes. Hitomi looked down on the ground and saw a brush. She stooped down to pick it up, "You don't mind, do you?" The horse grunted in response, "Well, I'll take that as a 'yes' then."

Hitomi moved the brush gently up and down the side of the horse. The motion relaxed her, and a smile crept across her face. But her reverie did not last for long. Soon with each stroke of the brush an image flashed in her mind. Of riding this horse frantically through the forest. Of the branches of trees whipping her face. Of reaching the clearing and facing the edge of a ravine. Of the horse rearing backward and throwing her off. Of the horse shrieking as it plunged over the ravine edge. Of her last thoughts. Of the horrible crunching sound as she hit the ground. Of her world dissolving and going black.

Hitomi dropped the brush and backed up against the wall of the stall. Her hand went up to her neck, Why? Why? Why does it have to be now? When I still have so much to do. I wanted to see this through to the end. I wanted to save this world and it's people. I wanted to tell him I- Tears rolled down her cheeks, but she smiled regardless. How funny, the one thing before that seemed so complex, now seems so simple. She wiped the tears away from her eyes and composed herself, When the time comes, I will tell you. I promise.

*Watching the silver catbeast leave* Yes, the Elite of Beasts. Nothing more than that for a flea-riddened animal that messes with such idiotic emotions like "love". *Smirking at Nariya's back with his chin in his hand. Turning back to Folken* Well, I can at least kill SOME people can't I? I mean, just make it look like a huge battle with casualties. *Shrugs*

Anger slowly rising… a little more… a little more… levels critical… and…
It all goes red.
Within a miniscule amount of time, the once standing Van found that he, himself, was on the floor and that Merle was not only atop him, but was also making a noticeably half-assed attempt at throttling him.
All in all, she was looking very distraught.
“YOU ARE NOT LEAVING ME WITH THAT… THAT AIRHEAD OF A PRINCESS!!!” Merle stared down on her beloved Van-sama with the beginnings of tears in her eyes. The boy in question merely blinked in a bewildered manner a few times before she continued. “The girl HATES me! You noticed that ‘little miss doctor’ has completely ignored the fact that I am one of two people here needing her ‘expert’ attention?!?!"
"I’M IN PAIN! And all that spoiled brat can do is moan about how IT'S ALL HER FAULT obviously waiting for us to forgive her when we all know that it IS her fault AND if she really wanted to save her precious Allen she should let us sleep more than 30 minutes and NOT ignore the injured!!!!” After that amazing display of lung capacity Merle made no attempt to suppress the loud intake of air and the subsequent tears. In a much more subdued voice the flustered cat-girl continued “You’re not only abandoning me again , but you’re leaving me with the princess…”
Almost inaudibly she whispered

“Do you even love me anymore?”

Hitomi took a deep breath and steadied herself, "Yes, Millerna-san, I'll let you know right away." She smiled at her reassuringly. "I'm going off to the stables to wait for you."

Hitomi headed out the door. As she crossed the lawn of the estate, she brought the hand that held Van's to her lips, trying to bring that essence of calm closer to her.

Everything's going to be all right, Escaflowne, I just know it will..