Disclaimer: I have no idea who owns Escaflowne. It's not me. Falling into you is a Celine Dion song, hence it was actually written by Billie Steinberg, Rick Nowels & Marie Claire d'Ubaldo.

Altered Fate
by Polka Dot

Chapter 1: A Wish Come True

Hitomi smiled as the light around her faded and she found herself in familar territory.

"Gaea at last." She had longed for the day that she would return to this magical world and to him, her angel, Van. She wondered what he looked like now. They were just kids last time, only teenagers. Now she was a woman: confidant and worldly with a woman's body. She had dreamed of meeting him again. They'd reminesce and then kiss and there would be that spark, that fire. They would get married and she would bear winged children. She'd be the Queen of Fanelia. She laughed at her little fantasy, but that's what Gaea was all about right? Here she could make her wishes come true.

"Where are you Van?" She asked the dark forest. She had to find him first. "Oh silly me." Hitomi smiled and took off her grandmother's pendant. Holding it in her hand she pictured him in her mind and the pendant swung to the right. She let it guide her.

He wasn't far. There was a lake that she came to and there he was. Standing over the water he didn't seem to notice her. She smiled and studied him. He was different but the same. A little taller, much broader in the shoulders and he dressed more like a king now. He cut a fine figure and when she looked at him, she noticed that he was looking up at the Mystic Moon. For a second she felt nervous and even thought about bolting, but she knew she'd regret it. She coughed lightly to get his attention.

Van turned his head and at first just gazed cooly on the person who had interrupted his thoughts. Then his eyes lit up and he smiled, cautiously at first and then wider as he saw her returning the smile.

"Hitomi?"

"Van."

He ran up to her and threw his arms around her. "Hitomi! I've missed you so much." He laughed as he spun her around.

"I've missed you too Van. I've wanted to return to Gaea for so long now. This is like a dream." She laughed too, just enjoying the moment.

When he set her back on the ground, he didn't loosen his arms from her, instead he just continued to smile as he looked down into her eyes. He was taller than she thought. Actually she hadn't really grown much. She'd obtained some more curves and let her hair grow to about her shoulders, but she wasn't any taller. The look he gave her sent shivers down her spine.

"I've waited for you Hitomi." He said in a deep, hushed voice. He rubbed her back a little before bringing his hand up to her cheek. His touch was light and gentle but it overpowered Hitomi's senses. She found her breath becoming ragged and whispered. "I've been waiting for you too." Van lowered his head and Hitomi closed her eyes. She felt him kiss her and she returned the kiss. It was so overpowering. It was more than a spark, it was a fire and she was immediately consumed. She could feel Van's hands roaming over her, undressing her, lowering her to the ground. She knew that they should slow down, but her body was enjoying it too much and her mind was telling her that if she only had one night on Gaea than she shouldn't waste it. She caught his eyes for just a second and he smiled so sweetly at her that any thoughts of stopping flew from her head.

Later that night Hitomi felt Van's chest rising under her head. She sat up and clutched the pink stone of her pendant in her hand and looked up to the sky. The Mystic Moon looked so far away, she couldn't help but sigh.

"You want to go back?" Van asked, startling her.

"What? Oh Van I thought you were asleep. No it's not that, it's just..."

Van sat up and wrapped his arms around her. "I don't want you to go back Hitomi. Please stay here with me." There was touch of desperation in his voice.

"Of course I'll stay Van, it's just I didn't think that...I mean...Well I guess what I am trying to say is that I didn't come here to sleep with you. I wasn't prepared for this to happen."

Van nodded, but his eyes were dark. He hung his head and said, "I'm sorry Hitomi. It was weak for me to give into my emotions like that. I'm sorry if I've dishonored you."

Hitomi knew that he was feeling badly, but she couldn't stop the giggle that escaped her mouth. "I'm sorry Van, it's just a little funny to hear you say that."

"Why?"

"Most men on my world wouldn't concern themselves over a woman's honor. I was thinking more about the fact that we didn't take any precautions."

"Precautions?"

"Yeah, you know, I don't want to get pregnant."

"Pregnant? Oh I never thought, but of course I should have, oh Hitomi you don't think you're pregnant do you?"

"Well it is a possiblity, don't worry about it though. I'm sure I'll get home in time to take care of it, if necessary."

"What do you mean? How would you take care of it?"

Hitomi looked at Van and realized that she probably didn't want to get into a discussion on abortion with him, so she just waved her hand at him and smiled. "You don't need to worry about that Van. I don't think that I could explain it anyway. Besides it's not really likely anyway. I mean time runs differently here than it does on my world, I think, so that would affect things too, but I'm not sure how." Hitomi became thoughtful at that idea. It was true that time seemed to move differently between the two worlds, but then she had never really paid it much mind before. She shook her head and stood up. "I guess we'd better get dressed now."

Van watched her for a moment but then followed her lead. After they were both dressed, he led her towards a clearing where his horse was grazing. The ride to Fanelia was quiet and short. It took less than an hour. Hitomi was surprised when they rode through the gates. Fanelia was still rebuilding but it was a grand sight. They rode to the palace gates and the structure before her made her gasp. She knew Van was a king but still this palace was immense. It was beautiful. Guards saluted Van and her. Together they walked past a fountain into the building.

"Van it's incredible."

"Yes it is. Actually it's too extravagent if you ask me. My advisor Zander was in charge of construction. I think he went a little overboard, but the palace does serve as more than just my home. Most of my advisors live here as well as all of our servants and guards. In fact nearly a third of all of Fanelia's citizens reside within the palace. That will change once construction of the city is complete. I really only have a few rooms to myself. One of which I will give to you, Hitomi, for as long as you stay here." Van turned and looked her in the eyes. "And I do hope that will be for quite some time."

"Oh Van."

"Hitomi!" At the call of her name, Hitomi whipped her head around and saw several guards entering into the foyer. One of whom had long blonde hair and kind blue eyes.

"Allen!" Forgetting herself she ran up to him and threw her arms around his neck. "It's so good to see you."

Allen hugged her tightly and whispered into her ear, "You're back." He opened his eyes and gazed down on her with a sweet loving smile. Lifting his head he caught Van's eye and quickly let her go.

"What are you doing here Allen? Are you visiting?"

"No, I live in Fanelia now. After Zaibach fell there was much rebuilding to do. Van needed someone to train the palace guards. Well, it was obvious I was needed more here than in Asturia and even though it was hard to leave, I felt this was the best place for me."

"I see, so you came to help. That's so like you Allen."

Van walked over to the pair and took Hitomi's hand. "Yes, Allen's been a big help. He's in charge of more than just the guards. He is my military advisor as well."

Allen smiled but it didn't reach his eyes. "Well it's not a difficult job, considering that Gaea is sick of wars and fighting now." Allen turned his attention fully on Hitomi. "I have work to do now, but I hope to see you later, I what to know what you have been up to all this time."

Hitomi smiled and nodded. "Okay."

After Allen left Van glared at Hitomi. They said nothing as he led her up to her room. It was hours later that she saw either of them. Van had left her to rest but she wasn't tired so she ended up wandering the palace alone. It was late at night, but she wasn't sleepy. She thought about Allen and how he seemed exactly the same. She wondered if Merle was still around and what she looked like now. She was surprised that the cat girl hadn't jumped on Van the moment he returned to the palace, but she assumed that Merle had grown too old for such childish behavior. Soon she found herself in an open courtyard at the center of the palace. It was filled with the most beautiful plants and smelled lush in the night air.

"Hitomi." She jumped in surprise and then laughed from embarrassment when she realized Allen had walked right up to her without her even noticing.

"Allen what a nice surprise. I was beginning to think I was all alone in this big place."

"The courtyard isn't used very much. Even though it's the loviest place in the entire palace, it isn't very practical. I only come here when I want to be alone."

"Oh I'm sorry maybe I should leave."

"No Hitomi, please stay. I welcome the company."

"Is something wrong Allen?" He seemed a little sad.

Allen seemed reluctant to talk but looking into Hitomi's eyes, somehow loosened his tongue. "I fear that there may be another war brewing. Fanelia is still rebuilding. The kingdom is weak and other countries have taken advantage of us for that. After Zaibach fell, the other countries began demanding reparations. Freid and Fanelia were both wiped out and needed to be rebuilt from scratch. Asturia also received considerable damage, but Dryden's resources are quite extensive.

"If you recall Donkirk gained the power of Atlantis from Freid during the war. The citizens of Zaibach have proposed using that power to rebuild thier country as well as Fanelia and Freid. Other countries are afraid that such a venture could mean the end of Gaea. Yet these same countries have not offered any assistance to Fanelia or Freid. I heard Van tell you that a third of Fanelia's people live here in the palace. That's because construction had not gone as planned. I think that Zander is incompetent, but Van has much faith in him. He is willing to use the power of Atlantis to rebuild Fanelia. I am not sure what is best, but I fear that if Zaibach does try to use this power then the peace on Gaea will end.

"I am glad to see you Hitomi, but I wonder if your presence here is a bad omen for us all." Allen looked at her and his eyes were full of questions.

"Oh." Hitomi grabbed the pink stone lying on her chest and closed her eyes. At first she couldn't see anything, but soon she saw Allen. He and Van were fighting and he looked ready to strike Van down.

Hitomi opened her eyes and blinked. Allen stood before her once again in the courtyard. He smiled and placed his hand on her shoulder. "I'm sorry, I really am glad to see you. I'm sure it's just a coincidence."

"I don't think it is."

"Huh?" Hitomi turned around quickly when she heard Van's voice.

"I was thinking thoughts similar to yours Allen, just moments before Hitomi appeared. In fact, I was thinking what an assest she'd be if another war came about. I wished you were here, Hitomi and then I looked across the lake and I saw that my wish had come true. I am not going to take any chances. If there is going to be another war then I want to be prepared. Fanelia will not be destroyed again."

"Oh Van." Hitomi closed her eyes and sighed. The last thing she wanted was to see another war.

"Come on Hitomi, it's late. We should all get some sleep, tomorrow will be a busy day." Van grabbed Hitomi's elbow and lead her up to their room. Allen remained in the courtyard for a while, looking up at the Mystic Moon and wondering if Hitomi's return meant the end for them all.

Once Hitomi and Van reached their room, she asked him the question that had been burning in her mind. "Is that what you want Van, another war?"

"No of course not, but it would be foolish not to be prepared."

Hitomi nodded, but sensed that Van wasn't being completely honest. "Fanelia's seen so much destruction. It must be hard for the people here to even think about the possiblity of another war. I know that the very thought of it terrifies me and I was able to escape the aftermath of it all."

"There's no need for you to worry Hitomi. I'll always make sure that you're safe." Van walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her shoulders. "I don't care about why you're here. I'm just thankful. Please Hitomi, let's talk about something else."

Hitomi smiled and turned around so that she could face Van. "Okay. I haven't noticed Merle around, how is she?"

Van looked shocked. "She's ah, well she's fine." He mumbled.

"Van?"

He wouldn't meet her eyes. "I don't want to talk about Merle right now. I just want to get some sleep. It's awfully late. We'll talk again in the morning, okay?"

Hitomi nodded. "Okay." And they settled down to sleep.

Chapter 2: Lost Kitten

Hitomi woke up alone, but that really didn't bother her. She was brought breakfast by a servant girl who told her that Lord Van was in a meeting with his knights. Hitomi decided to explore more of the palace. It was truly immense. It was beautiful but crowded. Considering what Allen and Van had told her, she knew she shouldn't be surprised, but in some sections it reminded her of a marketplace instead of a palace. In fact there were open areas of the palace that were used for the bartering of goods. She thought of the cliche 'when in Rome...' and felt it was entirely appropriate here.

Van had provided her with several nice dresses so that she wouldn't stand out in her strange clothes. Of course she had stopped wearing school uniforms a while ago, but still jeans and t-shirts weren't commonplace here in Gaea. She smiled as she looked at some jewerly which reminded her of a the wares that were sold at a Renaissance fair she had been to recently. Hitomi picked up a gold ring with a tiger's eye stone and held it to the light when she was shoved from behind. She dropped the ring and before she could yell at the person responsible, she was grabbed by the shopkeeper and shaken forcefully.

"You clumsy wench, either give me back my ring or pay for it."

Hitomi got down on her hands and knees to look for the ring, but couldn't find it. She tried to explain how it wasn't her fault but the shopkeeper was completely unsympathetic. He yelled at her some more and demanded payment, she explained that she had no money. This didn't go over well at all. Soon Hitomi found herself being hauled off by the the palace guards to the dungeon.

Hitomi frowned as she sat on the cold hard stone floor. With her past experiences in Gaea, she really wasn't surprised by this bizarre turn of events. She figured either they would let her go, Van or Allen would find her or the stone would take her home. Although none of those possibilities has an exact time associated with it, she was still in good spirts until she heard a growl coming from the cell across from her. Peering into the darken corner of the cell Hitomi could barely make out the figure of a woman and eyes that reflected the light back at her.

Hitomi gasped and then crashed the back of her head into the stone wall of the woman emerged from the dark. It was a cat woman like Naria, but the striping reminded her of Merle and the look of hatred in the woman's eyes reminded her of Dilandau. "Merle?"

"So you have come back, Van always said you would. In fact he counted on it. I'm surprised to see you here in the dungeon though Hitomi." Merle flicked her ears and then licked a pointy nail. "Actually I'm not surprised. I guess I should've known that Van would tire of you too."

"Van? Van didn't put me here. It was all a misunderstanding. Why...why are you here?"

"She's a traitor to the king. Hitomi I was afraid it was you. When the guards described thier latest prisoner I rushed her right away. Are you alright?"

Hitomi nodded. "Yes Allen I'm fine."

Allen pulled out a key and began to unlock the cell door. "What happened? They say you stole a ring?"

Hitomi stood up and shook her head, while straightening out her skirt. "No, not really. I was looking at it and someone bumped into me. I dropped it and couldn't find it. The shopkeeper insisted I pay for it, but I didn't have any money."

"So they threw you in here? That's ridiculous! I'm so sorry. I can't believe my guards acted so callously. I will definitely have a word with them about their treatment of you."

"Oh Allen it's okay. It was all just one big misunderstanding. I'm sure they would've let me out soon enough."

"Oh Allen" Merle mimicked. "I see you haven't changed much Hitomi.I can smell Van all over you, but it seems you are still stringing Allen along as well."

Hitomi gasped at the remark and felt her face flush with anger. Allen scowled and looked at Merle harshly. "You don't know what you're talking about Merle. Hitomi's only been back a day. There's nothing between her and I." Allen grabbed Hitomi's hand forcefully and led her out of the dungeon.

Hitomi followed but couldn't help looking back at the cat woman who had been her friend so long ago. "Allen what did you mean when you said that Merle was a traitor to the king? Merle and Van were like kin how could she ever betray him."

"I'm not sure of all the details Hitomi, but Merle's changed. It's sad but cat people tend to be very obsessive of 'territory' and Merle thought that Van was hers and hers alone. When Van refused her advances, she attacked him."

"No way? Merle did that? I can't believe it!"

"It's true. One night we heard yelling coming from Van's bedroom and ran in to find him covered in scratches. Merle was crying and Van said that she tried to get physical with him, but he refused her so she attacked him in anger. I feel bad for Merle because I remember how close they always were, but she is a danger to him so until she can overcome her obsession we have to keep her locked up."

"That's so sad, but I can see what you mean. Some people when they are hurt can only respond by hurting those who hurt them. Rejection is a very painful thing to deal with."

Allen nodded. "Yes it is." He looked down at her and Hitomi noticed that they were up in the foyer of the palace where she had first encountered Allen the day before. Van was up there as well. He looked surprised to see them and slightly angry. When Hitomi followed his eyes she realized that Allen was still holding her hand, tightly.

Hitomi let go of Allen's hand and smiled at Van. "Good morning, Van."

"Hitomi, it's actually closer to afternoon. I was going to get some lunch soon, would you like to join me?"

"Okay."

"I just brought Hitomi up from the dungeon. She was locked up due to a misunderstanding with the guards." Allen took a step back from the newly reunited pair.

"The dungeon? Did you...?"

Hitomi nodded. "I saw Merle there. Allen told me what happened. I'm so sorry Van, but why did you lie to me?"

Van scowled. "I didn't want to get into the whole story, not when we both needed sleep. Did you speak to Merle? What did she say to you?" Van looked nervous.

"Not much, we didn't have much time to talk. I was so shocked when I first saw her that my brain sorta froze and I didn't know what to say." Hitomi smiled and rubbed the back of her head. "That reminds me, those dungeon walls are hard."

"Huh?" Van ran his fingers over Hitomi's head, replacing her own. "You bumped your head? Are you okay?"

"Yes I'm fine, but I'm also pretty hungry. Let's eat or else I'll have a sore head and a sore stomach."

Van nodded, but still looked worried. "Okay."

The rest of the day passed by very uneventfully for Hitomi. She smiled as she looked at Van who was sitting on the other side of the bed. He looked nervous. She was nervous too. Even though they had made love the night before, she wasn't sure they should press their luck and do it again. Also last time there hadn't been much thinking going on. Now her mind was running at all cylinders and couldn't help thinking about where this might lead.

Van looked over at Hitomi. She was beautiful and memories of the night before were flashing across his mind. He moved closer to her and took her hand in his. He squeezed it and when she looked up into his face she smiled. He smiled back and kissed her. The kiss didn't end but instead he dragged his head down to her neck and pulled her closer to him. Hitomi shivered in his grip and pushed him away gently.

"Van I'm not sure we should do this. We aren't even married."

Van laid his head down of her shoulder and whispered. "We will be." Then he let his hands roam again.

"But Van, what if I get pregnant."

"Then you'll have my baby." Van replied and he leaned forward forcing her down on the bed.

Hitomi moaned, but kept her head clear. Van wasn't listening to her and that was making her mad. She felt like he was ignoring her feelings. "But Van..."

"Why are you being so difficult Hitomi? I thought this is what you wanted. It's what you wanted last night. What's changed?" Van covered Hitomi's body with his own and grabbed the hem of her dress in his hands, pulling it up to her stomach.

"Nothing's changed. I just don't think we should tempt fate." Hitomi replied as she squirmed uncomfortably.

"We are fate." Van whispered before sticking his tongue in her ear and pulling off her clothes. He took her before she could protest further. Hitomi wasn't ready and tears speckled her lashes as pain wracked her body. She bit her lip not to cry out and sighed in relief when he pulled away from her. Hitomi waited until Van had fallen asleep and then pulled her dress down before rushing out of their room in shame.

Outside of their room she held the moonstone pendant in front of her eyes and blinked away her tears. "Send me home, please." The stone didn't respond. She frowned in frustration and made her way down the hall towards the dungeon. She had to find out what really happened. She just couldn't believe that Merle would attack Van without good reason.

"We can't let you in." The guard eyed her curiously, making her flesh crawl.

"But I was here earlier today and I think I left something in the cell. Can't you please just let me look?"

"Sorry lady, it's against rules."

"It's okay Dugan, I'll take her."

"Yes sir." The guard saluted.

Hitomi spun around at the familar voice. "Allen, what a surprise. I assumed you would be asleep by now."

Allen smiled down at her. "I wish, but I have so many duties here." He held open the door for her. "Ladies first."

"Thank you."

"What did you lose?"

Hitomi blushed. "Well actually, I just wanted to talk to Merle. I know I shouldn't have lied, but it's very important."

Allen nodded. "I figured that's why you were here." He led her down to Merle's cell. "I'll be right outside Hitomi. I know you two were friends once, but she's changed, she's dangerous so don't get too close to the bars."

"I won't. Thank you Allen."

Hitomi looked at the cat woman curled into a corner of the dark cold cell. She felt so sad for Merle's situation. "Merle?" The woman didn't move, but Hitomi knew that with the feline's sensitive hearing Merle knew was there. "Please tell me what you meant when you said that Van would tire of me too."

"He's hurt you already, hmm?" Merle's ears twitched but she still remained curled on the floor. "You smell of sex. I can tell you know. What's the matter Hitomi, a king not good enough for you?"

"Stop it Merle. What happened to you? I know that you loved Lord Van, so why did you attack him?"

"They told you about that did they?" Merle's ears bobbed in the moonlight. "Yes, yes they would, but Van was mine and I was his. He kept telling me I was his only friend. Well the King of Fanelia doesn't need friends."

"Merle, what did Van do to make you so mad at him? What did he do to make you attack him?"

Merle's ears flattened. "Oh you know that Hitomi. He's done it to you too."

"Merle?"

"I told you. I can smell it."

"He...he raped you?" Hitomi whispered. Would Van do that? He couldn't, he wouldn't and especially not to Merle. Hitomi knew that he hadn't raped her. She might not be happy with what happened tonight, but she didn't push him away or tell him to stop. She just let him do it. She had only herself to blame.

"No, of course not! Lord Van would never do that!" Merle sprang from her cell corner to arrive at the bars of her cell in less than a second. "I loved Van, it was beautiful. It was my dream come true, until you ruined it!" Hitomi was standing several feet away from the bars when Merle swiped at her.

"Me? How could I? I've been on the Mystic Moon."

"But you've been a ghost between us since the day you left Gaea. All Van's wanted is you. You're all he wants and I was just a distraction for him to kill time with. He wanted you and I knew but it was okay, until, until..." Merle's ears were flat and her eyes looked dead. "Until he said your name and I couldn't fool myself any longer." Merle sniffled and turned away.

Hitomi was surprised to find tears in her own eyes. "Oh Merle I'm so sorry. I can see why you got so upset."

"Treat him well Hitomi. That's all I want. I just want Van to be happy."

"Merle." Hitomi reached towards the cell.

"Hitomi!" Allen's angry voice startled her. "Don't get within arm's reach of those bars."

"But Allen..."

He opened the door and gestured her to come with him. "Hitomi Merle is unstable. At times she can seem very non-threatening, but she is a cat person and they are known to..."

"Allen I don't believe that Merle would hurt Van again. She still loves him..."

"And he loves you."

Hitomi blushed. "I believed her when she said that all she wants is his happiness. I know she won't hurt me or Van."

Allen frowned. "If you make him happy, but if you don't. She may very well kill you."

Hitomi shook her head. "No."

Allen grabbed her elbow and stopped her, forcing her to look at him. "Listen Hitomi, I don't think that Merle would hurt Van. I really don't. I would let her go, but she doesn't want that. She feels so guilty about harming Van that she refuses to leave her cell. However now that you're here, I can't let her go, because she does pose a real danger to you."

"Allen you can't know that for sure. You're speculating and it's wrong to keep someone locked up because she might do something harmful in the future."

"But Hitomi I do know that for sure, because I feel the same way."

"Huh? I don't understand."

Allen stared off into space for a minute and then looked into her eyes. "If Van were to ever hurt you Hitomi, well, I don't know if I could bear it."

"Allen?"

"In fact I know I couldn't bear it. I'd kill him Hitomi."

"Allen!"

He squeezed her arm. "I will, if he hurts you, I will." His eyes were so intense, Hitomi had to turn away.

Chapter 3: Knight Cries

After a moment of silence, "I'm sorry," Allen aplogized. "I was out of line. I know how you and Van feel about each other, Hitomi. I accepted your feelings a long time ago." He sounded hurt. "I just worry about you, and Van. He's grown so distant over the years. I thought that with your return that would change, but he's still so hurt by the war, I guess."

Hitomi finally looked at Allen. "It's okay, it's very kind of you to worry about me. I am not really sure how Van and I feel about each other. It's been so long, we've both changed." Hitomi grew silent. She didn't actually realize what she was saying until it was out of her mouth. She had been dreaming about Van for so long now that she fell into his arms the moment she returned to Gaea, but that was a mistake. She realized that now. Van was not the same. She wasn't the same. How could she love someone she didn't even know?

"Hitomi?" Allen interrupted her thoughts. His eyes were fixed on her and she knew that whatever he said, he was hurt by her rejection. She studied his face for just a moment. When she was younger, he had totally swept her off her feet and then she learned about Prince Chid. She had judged him for that quite harshly. Why had she done that? On this world such things were scandal, but unwed mothers and non-traditional familes were commonplace in Japan. Furthermore he truly loved Mallory. They were young and made a mistake.

Hitomi sighed and smiled. He was still so handsome. He hadn't changed much at all. Of course that made sense. Her and Van were just teenagers during the war. Allen was older. No, he really hadn't changed much at all: still handsome, still chivilarous, still honest with her, even knowing his honest could hurt him.

"Hitomi?"

She blushed when she realized that she had basically zoned out. "I'm sorry Allen." She smiled wider in embarrassment.

"It's alright. Why don't I escort you to your room? You seem tired."

Hitomi nodded. "Yes I'm really tired. It's late isn't it?" She asked as she turned away and tried to ignore the rapid beat of her heart. She felt like a teenager right now. An embarrassed, foolish teenager with a crush.

"Yes it is. But I'm used to it. I'm sorry if I kept you up."

Hitomi shook her head and giggled. "Don't apologize, if you hadn't come along I probably would still be arguing with the guard."

Allen nodded as he led her through the halls. "You need to be more careful Hitomi. My guards have strict orders to adhere to. I don't want you getting yourself in trouble."

"Oh don't worry about that. I don't think I'll have anymore occassions to visit the dungeon. There are so many other wonderful things to see her in Fanelia."

"Yes there are. In fact the gardens are in full bloom right now. You should try to visit them tomorrow. I have to train some new recruits in the morning, but I'm free all afternoon. I would be happy to show you were they are, if you like." Allen offered.

Hitomi thought about Van as they passed by his bedroom door. Allen stopped at the next door. "Thank you Allen." She didn't want to hurt Van, but he was just offering to show her the way and she didn't know anyone else here at the palace. "I'll wait for you here tomorrow." Allen smiled. "Goodnight."

"Goodnight Hitomi."

When she was inside and the door was closed Hitomi let out a deep sigh and smiled broadly. She definitely felt like a teenager again.

Hitomi woke up to be greeted by the servant girl again. She didn't want to get lost so she stayed in her room for most of the morning. She wondered if Van would come to see her, but the servant girl had said Lord Van would be rather busy. She felt sort of like a bird in a cage. Knowing that Allen would still be a couple of hours, she grabbed her normal clothes and headed towards the open courtyard. She needed to run. Running always took her mind off of her problems and she couldn't stand sitting in her room and brooding any more. Unfortunately the courtyard was not empty. She really didn't want an audience so she headed out past the guards to an empty field just outside the city. It was quiet and beautiful.

She crouched down in the soft grass and let her mind drift to the past. She visualized her high school track field: the red dirt and chalk lines of the track, the tension of the other runners and then the sound of the buzzer. Hitomi's head shot up and her body lurched forward as she ran as hard and as fast as she could to the end of the field. She enjoyed feeling her heart race and her hair being blown away from her face, when her toe caught and her leg refused to push forward any further, yanking her to the ground.

She gasped as the air rushed out of her and then moaned pitifully. He ankle and side were sore. The side was just bruised but the ankle had twisted on her. It wasn't anything too serious, but it was painful and she knew that she would be slow getting back. Hitomi rested a little before attempted her journey back to Fanelia. When she first put weight on the foot she nearly screamed at the shock of pain, but it subsided to a dull throb and she was able to walk. Fortunately she spotted a stick that would be long enough for her to lean on and her trip back wasn't as painful as she imagined. It was slow though.

When she reached her room Allen was outside her door waiting for her. When he saw her, his eyes widened and he rushed to her side.

"Hitomi what happened?"

She flushed red in embarrassment. "Oh I twisted my ankle, I was being careless and running in the grass, when I should've staying in the courtyard. I am so sorry that I kept you waiting Allen. Have you been here long?"

"Don't worry about that Hitomi. Your ankle, hmm?" He surprised her by wrapping his arm around her waist and partially lifting her off the ground. "You shouldn't be walking on it." He led her to her bed and motioned for her to sit. "Here let me see it." Not waiting for her approval, he lifted her leg and placed it on his knee, then pulled down her sock. Allen's long slender fingers gently rubbed her soft ankle, following the bone almost up to her calf. "It is a little swollen. I'll call for the servant girl to bring you some ice."

"Thank you."

"I don't think you should go to the gardens today."

Hitomi nodded in agreement while Allen called the servant girl. A few minutes later he placed a small block of ice wrapped in a towel on her ankle. She winced and he looked up at her with concern.

"It's cold." She explained with another embarrassed smile.

Allen nodded with a small smile of his own. "Why were you running in a field?"

"I always run when I need to relax."

"The palace isn't relaxing?"

"Well it's very nice, but I don't like being stuck in doors for too long."

"Oh I see." Allen sounded sad.

"Is something wrong?"

Allen looked at the pink stone resting above Hitomi's heart. "You were late and I thought that maybe you had left."

"I'm sorry Allen I tried to get back as soon as I could."

He looked her in the eyes and she quieted immediately. "I thought you had left for good, back to the Mystic Moon. I knew that you were unsure of your feelings for Van and I figured you had just decided to leave," he paused for a moment, "again."

"Oh Allen..."

"I know that I don't have a right to want you here, but I've always enjoyed having you around Hitomi. You bring a peace to my heart that I can't explain. Even if you don't love me, I still want you around. It's ironic but I'm actually hoping you do love Van, so that you will stay here in Gaea forever."

Hitomi thought that maybe she had stopped breathing because all of a sudden she couldn't find the breath to speak. Not that she knew what to say. Her heart was overjoyed and her head was screaming in confusion. She reached over and grabbed Allen's hand, entwining his fingers with her own. The towel of ice slid off her ankle. "Allen that's so...you're so kind and...I'm so touched." Unconciously Hitomi began to pull Allen's hand up her leg. "I don't know what to say." Somehow Allen had gotten a lot closer to her and she was now staring into blue eyes that were inches away from her own. She remembered their kiss on the bridge so long ago. She was so nervous then. She barely remembered what it felt like. She only remembered Van's face afterwards.

Hitomi blinked and the spell was broken. Despite her current reservations about her and Van's relationship, she knew that this would only make things worse. She lowered her head and dropped Allen's hand. She could feel her face turn red as an awkward silence settled between them.

Allen sighed and Hitomi could hear as well as feel the disappointment that surrounded him. She jumped slightly off the bed when she felt the cold compress return to her ankle.

"I have to get back to guard duty Hitomi. Take care of yourself. Keep that ankle iced." Allen got up and left the room so quickly that Hitomi saw nothing but a fall of blonde hair when she looked up at him. She knew she had hurt him again and she felt awful about it. 'I should have never come here.' She thought.

Hitomi spent the rest of the day at her window, watching the world pass her by. Van found her there hours later after she failed to show up for dinner. "Hitomi, have you been here all day? I'm sorry, I guess I wasn't very considerate. I don't mean to desert you but I do have several duties as king that I can't ignore.I'll have the servant girl show you around Fanelia tomorrow if you like."

"That's okay Van. Actually I did get out today to do a little running but I hurt my ankle and stayed in to nurse it."

"You did?" Van looked at her ankle. "Is it hurting you? Do you want me to send for a healer?"

Hitomi shook her head. "Oh it's alright. I just have to stay off it for a little while more. It should be fine by tomorrow."

Van looked at her again. "Are you hungry? I can have some food sent up."

Hitomi shook her head. "Sitting in front of this window all day hasn't given me much of an appetite. Fanelia has a truly amazing city. If I didn't know better I would never believe that it was completely destroyed less than five years ago."

Van smiled proudly. "Yes I know. And today I've insured that Fanelia will never see such devastation again."

"Really how did you do that?"

"I've reached an agreement with Zaibach's representative. The power of Atlantis will be used to rebuild Fanelia's imperial city."

Hitomi frowned. "Isn't that dangerous?"

Van sighed. "People are worried because of what happened in the past, but Zaibach won't be using the power of Atlantis. I will."

"I don't understand."

"The people of Atlantis tried to create the perfect world. I don't want to change things. I am just going to envision Fanelia the way that it was."

"Oh. How can you do that though? You're just one person, is the power of Atlantis strong enough to make your vision come true?"

"We're not sure, so I figured that when I use the power of Atlantis I'll do it while I'm in Escaflowne. That should boost the power."

A picture of Van in Escaflowne flashed across Hitomi's mind. She saw Fanelia rebuilt as a fortress. Dark clouds hung over the city making it look like a prison. Guymelefs stood at the city walls looking down upon the citizens and warding off visitors. Inside the city the people walked with hollow eyes. The guards were smug and pushy, their smiles were evil and Van was locked away in the imperial palace. Hitomi sat beside him. Her cold expression matched his own.

Hitomi shuddered and grabbed the stone on her pendant. "Van! Van you mustn't use the power of Atlantis. It will drain the life and joy away from Fanelia."

"What are you talking about?"

"I saw it! Just now I saw Fanelia as a closed off city whose people were like prisoners and their military that was supposed to protect them was oppressing them instead."

Van shook his head. "Hitomi you must be mistaken. I would never let that happen to Fanelia."

"But you did Van, I saw it! We both did."

"No! I won't listen to this. Last time you said that your predictions were causing a dark future. You want this to fail, but it won't. I won't let it. I will rebuild Fanelia to the happy kingdom it was before Zaiback destroyed it."

"Please Van I didn't ask for this vision. I was confused when I was younger but I'm not confused now." Hitomi heard her own words echo in her mind and froze. She said she wasn't confused but she knew she was. She had spent all day thinking about her future with Van and about Allen. Van told her that he would make her his wife. She saw herself in that vision married to Van and both of them miserable. Maybe she was causing a dark future. She came to a decision.

"Van you may be right and that's why I have to leave. I have to let Gaea determine it's own future."

"What? Hitomi no!"

"I have to Van. I don't want to hurt anyone and if I stay here, then I'll end up hurting you."

"Hitomi that's not true!"

"I'm sorry Van but it is. I don't love you. I don't want to marry you. I have to leave Gaea now!" Hitomi grabbed the moonstone hanging above her heart and cried to the heavens. "I want to go home!"

"Hitomi!" Van screamed and reached for her but it was too late. A pillar of white light descended from the heavens and enveloped Hitomi, carrying her back to the earth.

Chapter 4: Falling into You

"She's gone?" Van nodded. "Why?"

"She had a vision."

"And that's why you've decided not to use the power of Atlantis?"

"Yes."

Allen looked thoughtful. "But I still don't understand why she left."

Van looked down sadly. "She said she didn't want to be responsible for bringing Gaea a dark future."

"She thought her visions were influencing the future?" Van nodded. "But then if she left and you still used the power of Atlantis, it's possible her prediction won't come true."

"Yes it's possible, but I didn't want to take that chance."

"I see. So that's it then, she's not coming back."

Van shook his head. "No I don't believe so."

"I'm sorry to hear that." Van didn't say anything to that, although he wanted to. Hitomi's last words echoed in his mind. 'I don't love you. I don't want to marry you.' He stared at Allen hard wondering how Hitomi's heart could've changed so quickly. "Van what will you do now?"

"What do you mean?"

"How will you rebuild Fanelia?"

"I'll just have to do it the hard way I guess, and hope that Asturia and some of our other allies will provide resources until Fanelia can pay them back. Freid and Fanelia are in talks but of course we're both in such bad shape that we can only provide moral and strategic support to each other, at this time."

"You have so much work to do. I hate to leave you like this Van."

"It's alright Allen, I understand. I wish Celena well. Enjoy the wedding."

"Thank you, I'll pass on your good wishes to her."

Hitomi woke up and knew that it wasn't a dream. She was seeing them again, she had been seeing them ever since her return. Mostly it was visions of Allen and Van that filled her mind, but she also saw Merle lead out of the prison by Van. She saw Celena embrace her brother. It was as if when she slept she returned to Gaea as some kind of ghost. She was glad that Van decided not to use the power of Atlantis.

Later that day on her way to the beach she stopped at a bench on the boardwalk and sat listening to the waves lap upon the shore. She closed her eyes and a picture of Celena in her wedding dress drifted across her eyelids.

"What do you think?"

"I think you look beautiful. Are you sure about this?"

"Of course I'm sure. I thought you liked Jared."

"I do, it's just you're so young. I feel like I just got you back and now you're leaving me."

"Now Allen you know that's not true." Celena wagged her finger at him reproachfully.

"Yes, yes, I know. I'm not losing a sister, I'm gaining a brother-in-law." Allen sighed, but smiled down at Celena. "I just wish I had you to myself for a little longer."

"Oh Allen. I know how much my absence hurt you, but I love Jared and he loves me and I don't want to wait. Can't you understand that? Haven't you ever felt that way before?" Celena hugged her brother tightly.

"Yes, yes I have." Allen rested his head on Celena's and closed his eyes. 'Hitomi.'

Hitomi's eyes shot open and she grabbed her chest. "Oh Allen." She blinked back tears and wondered why she was seeing this when she was awake. 'I've hurt Van, I've hurt Allen.' "I don't deserve you." She whispered. 'I don't deserve either of you.'

'Hitomi.'

Hearing Allen's voice in her head she closed her eyes and again saw him in his sister arms. 'Hitomi I love you. Please come back to Gaea, come back to me.'

Hitomi gasped as the words drifted in her mind. Did he know that she could hear his thoughts? Whether he did or not, Hitomi's heart ached knowing that he was still longing for her even after all the stupid mistakes that she had made.'I won't make another one.' She promised herself. 'I won't go back.'

Hitomi spent the rest of the day at the beach, but her heart refused to let her relax and enjoy the warm breeze and beautiful sunshine. She knew that she didn't love Van and that telling him was the best thing that she could've done, even if she regretted her outburst. She couldn't kill his child though. When she learned that she was pregnant she realized that despite the disgrace it would bring her, she didn't want to get an abortion. She also realized that her heart belonged to Allen.

When she closed her eyes she pictured herself with him. She wanted to be in that wedding dress enclosed in his arms. She saw herself lying in his arms at night, gazing at the Mystic Moon hanging in the sky. 'It's not a crush.' She thought. 'Not if can see my future in him.'

Hitomi walked home in the dark. She hadn't meant to stay at the beach for so long, but she was so tired from the visions interrupting her sleep. Plus her new condition was affecting her physically, and mentally she was just plain exhausted. She needed a day off desperately and couldn't pull herself away from the calming waves of the ocean. She sighed and thought about how nice it would be to live in Asturia by the ocean. 'Stop it.' She scolded herself. 'You're home now, where you belong and this is for the best. No war, no cat women looking to hurt you and no Van, to stare at you with those hurt eyes. And no Allen.' Tears sprung to Hitomi's eyes and she blinked them back, angry with herself for thinking about Gaea again, after spending the whole day trying to push it out of her mind.

"Hey why is the station closed?" Hitomi asked as she walked up to the train station. There was no answer because the platform was completely deserted. 'This can't be.' Hitomi ran to the locked door and read the hours of operation. The station closed at 7:30 it was now after 8 pm. "But the stations in Tokyo don't close until midnight." She cried in frustration.

"Well this isn't Tokyo. Don't worry, there's a hotel about 7 blocks from here. You should be able to get a room for the night."

The young man pointed her down the street she needed. Hitomi nodded, it wasn't what she had planned, but she really didn't have a choice so she figured it was best to just accept fate and stay in the hotel. "Thank you."

Hitomi followed the deserted street down to the small hotel. When she got to her room she decided to take a shower and turn in for the night. Hitomi filled her hand with the fragrant shampoo and began to hum as she washed the sand and salt out of her hair. The tune she hummed became more complicated and Hitomi soon found herself belting out Celine Dion at the top of her lungs.

"And in your eyes I see ribbons of color
I see us inside of each other
I feel my unconcious merge with yours
And I hear a voice say 'What's his is hers'

"I'm falling into you
This dream could come true
And it feel so good falling into you"

Hitomi pictured Allen's beautiful blue eyes and his long golden hair and remembered how sexy he looked on the bridge after the rain when his hair was sticking to his face and neck and drops of water fell like tears from the long locks. 'Oh lord what's wrong with me? I'm actually singing a cheesy love song and fantasing about Allen in the shower. I must be totally insane. Is this what real love feels like?'

Hitomi turned off the water and stepped out of the shower. She couldn't help humming the rest of the song while she towelled off. Hitomi grabbed the robe hanging off of the door and slipped it on. She felt much better after washing off of the dirt from the day. Sitting on the bed she closed her eyes and fell back into the soft mattress letting exhaustion take over, she fell asleep.

The gazebo was covered in white flowers and all the guests stopped chattering and looked towards in the vine covered archway as Allen led Celena through it. She was a vision of beauty in her long white dress. Allen stood at her side in his uniform and the pair were quite a sight to behold. Their long blonde hair made both men and women green with envy and Celena's fair skin complemented the dress well. Jared stood in the gazebo with sparkling eyes. Allen caught up in his sisters' happy day couldn't help feeling slightly sad that Hitomi wasn't there. 'If she was here this day would be perfect.'

'Oh Allen I wish I was there for you.' Hitomi thought as she realized that this was another vision. Suddenly Hitomi jolted out of bed as her room became filled with white light and she felt herself being lifted off of the bed. "No I don't want to ruin the wedding!" She screamed but it was too late. When the light receded from her vision she found herself facing a flower-covered gazebo with a group of strangers staring at her.

Hitomi grabbed her robe, which had loosened during the night and flushed a bright red. "I'm so sorry." She turned around to find Celena and Allen staring at her in shock. "I'm sorry Celena. I didn't mean for this to happen." Hitomi turned to find the most expedient way out of there, but stopped when she was engulfed in a bear hug.

"You came back." Allen whispered into her hair.

"I didn't mean to. I'm so sorry I've ruined the wedding." She said into his shoulder.

"You haven't ruined it. I wanted you here Hitomi." Celena said as she placed a comforting hand on Hitomi's back.

"What?"

Celena turned to the crowd. "I know you're all wondering what's going on, but I'm going to have to ask you to be patient for just a moment." Celena lowered her voice. "Come on Hitomi let's find you a dress." Celena grabbed Hitomi's arm and pulled her away from Allen, back towards the vine covered arch. "Make sure he doesn't run off." She said to her brother while gesturing towards Jared.

Allen laughed. "He'll be here."

Hitomi apologized about twenty more times on the way to Celena's room. Finally when they got inside Celena had heard enough. "Hitomi this is supposed to be the happiest day of my life."

"I know I'm..."

Celena held up her hand. "No more apologizing just listen. I am tired of seeing my brother moping around and I knew that the only way he'd stop is if you came back to Gaea so I used the power of Atlantis to bring you here." She pulled out a dress and handed it to Hitomi.

"What?"

"I want to be happy and I can't be happy unless Allen is happy too."

"But how did you get the power of Atlantis?"

"It's inside of me. When Dornkirk altered my fate, he used the power of Atlantis on me* and so I have it inside of me. I can't do anything too grand with it. In fact I've been wishing for you to come back to Gaea for a few days now, but it wasn't until Allen, you and me all wished at the same time for your return, that you actually did. Anyway now that you're here I can get married without having to worry about my brother. So get dressed. My guests are waiting."

"Okay." Hitomi was still a bit confused and shocked but she didn't want to hold up the wedding anymore so she slipped on the dress and followed Celena back to the arch. Taking a seat amoungst the guests, she signaled for Allen to walk his sister down the aisle. The wedding was beautiful and Hitomi really was glad that she got to see it in person, even if it was the most embarrassing enterance of her life.

After the ceremony, most of the guests danced around the gazebo or stood around chatting. Hitomi wondered if Allen had explained her sudden appearance to them. She felt uncomfortable and wanted to leave.

Allen wouldn't hear of it. He took Hitomi in his arms and began dancing with her. Hitomi just decided to enjoy the moment and as the evening wore on and the guests disappeared, she laid her head on his chest and listened to his strong heart beat beneath her ear. They didn't talk much. Allen was afraid that Hitomi would leave again and didn't want to bring up that subject. Hitomi knew she had to tell Allen about Van's baby and didn't want to hurt him.

After a while Allen led Hitomi to Celena's room so that they could call it a night. "I don't think she'll mind you borrowing her things. She took most of her stuff to Jared's place before the wedding. There isn't really much left here."

"Thank you Allen. You've always been so generous with me, and Celena was quite gracious about my interrupting her wedding. I wish there was something I could do to pay you both back for your kindness."

Allen smiled. "Well Hitomi, you could promise not to leave without saying a proper goodbye again. It's getting to be a bad habit of yours."

"I'm sorry. I'll try not to, but well," Hitomi held up the stone hanging around her neck, "this really didn't come with an instruction manual."

Allen took the stone in his hand. "I thought it followed you wishes."

Hitomi frowned. Did the stone know what was in her heart even when she didn't? It took her to Van when she wanted to be with him, but she had that wish for so long. Then it took her away from him when she got angry and scared because of that vision. Now she was back with Allen, whom she thought she loved, but Celena had said that was the power of Atlantis not the stone's doing.

She noticed that Allen was staring at her while she mused. "I'm sorry I got lost in my thoughts."

"What were you thinking?"

"I was just trying to figure out why the stone brought me back to Gaea after such a long time. Now that Van has decided against using the power of Atlantis, there shouldn't be any threats to the peace of Gaea, right?"

Allen nodded. "Yes I believe that's right. It turns out Freid was never seriously considering Zaibach's offer, so it looks like the people have nothing to fear and therefore no reason to go to war."

"Then there must be another reason."

"Maybe." Allen leaned forward and kissed Hitomi on the forehead. "I don't care what it is, as long as you're here now."

"Oh Allen."

"Goodnight Hitomi." Allen left quickly fearing rejection.

"Goodnight."

Hitomi waited for the door to close and then began to slip out of the dress Celena had lent her.

"Finally he's gone. I thought he'd never leave." The voice was instantly recognizable.

"Merle?"

"You really worked Van over you know. I used to even like you a little, but you broke his heart and now you'll pay." Merle launched herself from the corner of the room where she had been hiding. Hitomi screamed just before Merle's claws sunk themselves into her stomach.

"Hitomi!" Allen burst through the door and levelled his sword at Merle. "Get away from her." He swung his blade at the lithe woman and was rewarded with a high pitched cry when he clipped Merle's shoulder. Allen was an expert at the sword and Merle left, while she still could escape with her life.

"Hitomi! Hang on Hitomi, I'll get you a doctor. Please, be strong!"

Hitomi lost conciousness with a stinging pain in her gut.

Chapter 5: A Vision of the Future

Hitomi awoke to find herself being attended to by a princess. "Millerna?"

"Finally you're awake."

"Where's Allen?"

"He's outside. I wanted to speak to you alone."

Hitomi nodded. "You know, don't you?" Millerna nodded. "Did you tell him?"

"No, it's none of my business. Besides I don't want to hurt Allen if I can avoid it. We're still friends. So I take it the baby isn't his?" Hitomi lowered her head and tried to sit up. "Hey stop that! You're still recovering."

Hitomi fell back onto the pillows with a grimace. "So I see. Merle really got me good."

"Yes she did. Allen was really worried about you. I can only get him to leave when it's a matter of discretion."

"Huh?"

"You know when I have to take off your clothes. He really loves you, Hitomi. So tell me whose baby are you carrying?"

"Van's."

"I see." Millerna didn't try to hide her disapproval.

"Before you ask Van doesn't know. I told him that our relationship was over. I didn't know I was pregnant at the time and now that I do, well with Merle out on the hunt I think it's best if I just avoid Van."

Millerna thought carefully. "So what do you plan to do? Marry Allen and pass the child off as his own?"

"No of course not. I don't have a plan. I didn't expect to find myself back on Gaea and now that I'm here I'm more concerned about Merle finishing the job. I really haven't thought about my future."

"I see. Well maybe you should, because if you plan on leaving Gaea again, then you should plan on never coming back."

"Huh? Millerna you don't mean that, do you?" Hitomi was shocked at the trace of venom she heard in Millerna's voice.

"Don't act so surprised Hitomi. You come in and out of Van and Allen's lives without any kind of warning or any thought about the consequences. You've hurt both of them and frankly I don't blame Merle's anger." Hitomi tried to sit up again and Millerna pushed her back gently. "Don't get me wrong. I don't condone her actions. I just understand her anger. I don't want you hurting Allen too."

Hitomi blinked back tears born from both physical and emotional pain. "I don't want to hurt Allen. I didn't want to hurt Van. I'm so confused. I think I love Allen, but I thought I loved Van and I was wrong. I don't want to make another mistake."

"I can understand that. It's easy to be confused, but I think in the end your heart will lead you to the right decision."

"Will it? You married Dryden more for politics than for love. I thought your heart belonged to Allen."

Millerna smiled and shook her head. "I thought so too at one time, but my love for Allen was more of a crush. He loved Mallory and he loves you, but I don't think he ever loved me. I knew Dryden loved me and I think that I would've ended up marrying him in the long run. My marriage to Dryden was rushed. If I had more time, I wouldn't have been so confused. You have time Hitomi. You don't have to fear Merle. You'll be safe here in the palace and Allen will keep a close eye on you."

"You've matured Millerna. You've become so confident and strong. I feel like I'm still that teenager I was long ago."

"First of all, it wasn't that long ago and secondly, you just need to get used to Gaea again. I can't imagine how hard it must be to find yourself on another world, but it seems as though the Mystic Moon is a very different place than Gaea." Millerna handed her some water.

"Yes it is. But I'm beginning to feel more at home here every time I come." Hitomi smiled and relaxed. The conversation had turned much more relaxing in the last couple of minutes.

"I hope so. Allen's been outside waiting for you to wake up. If I stay too much longer, he'll get worried. Are you ready to see him?"

Hitomi frowned and patted her stomach. "I might as well just get this over with. Go ahead and send him in."

Hitomi sucked in a breath and prepared herself. She wondered how Allen would take the news. If he took it badly she'd wish herself home, but that didn't mean she'd get there. She might lose the last person who really cared about her.

Allen crossed the room with a look of concern clearly etched onto his face. He kneeled down at the side of the bed and took Hitomi's hand in his. She smiled at him and his worried face lightened a little. "How do you feel?"

"Okay. It really doesn't hurt if I don't move around."

"I'm sorry I wasn't able to get to you any sooner."

"Allen don't apologize, you saved me."

Allen shook his head, obviously upset. "But she was in that room the whole time and I never knew. I should have been more alert."

"Allen..."

"Hitomi, I swore I'd protect you and I failed."

"Allen stop it. You've always done all you could for me and this was no different. I'm fine and, well, my baby's fine too. So I'm not upset." Allen was shocked, his mouth fell open and he just stared at Hitomi. "I...I'm sorry Allen but I'm pregnant. Van and I, well we, we rushed into things and made a mistake."

"A mistake? So you don't love him?"

"No I don't. I thought I did, but after spending time with him, I realized that we've both changed so much. He's not the one for me." Allen just stared at her without saying anything. His face was unreadable. "On my world, things like this happen a lot. It's looked down upon, but it isn't that big of a deal. They have day care facilities and other ways of helping single parents raise their children."

"I see. So you were planning on raising this child on your own? But you're not on the Mystic Moon anymore. A pregnant woman without a husband will definitely stand out here on Gaea. People will wonder, rumours will spread. This is bad Hitomi. Van is the King of Fanelia. Your child will have succession rights, if anyone finds out..."

"Well I don't plan on telling anyone."

"You'll have to tell them something."

"Maybe. I don't really care what people say about me. They say the Mystic Moon is cursed and so anyone who knows I'm from there tends to have a less than kind opinion of me to begin with. This is just one more thing to deal with."

"No it's not. People can't tell where you're from just by looking at you. By in a few months everyone who sees you will know that you're pregnant."

"I suppose."

Allen stared at Hitomi for a little bit longer making her very nervous. After a while he spoke to her softly. "Hitomi I asked you to marry me once. That offer still stands."

Hitomi felt tears spring to her eyes. This was just too much. "Allen I don't want to get married just because I'm pregnant and need a husband."

"I understand." The disappointment in his voice was obvious. Hitomi sighed, she was hurting him again. Why did he have to leap straight to marriage? Why couldn't he give her time?

"Look Allen. Right now, you're the only reason I have for staying on Gaea." She placed a hand on his cheek and smiled at him. "You're so wonderful that when I'm with you I feel like I'm dreaming, but I'm not ready to get married to anyone right now. I'm not ready to have a baby either, to be honest, but I don't have a choice on that one. I'm still so confused. Won't you please give me time?"

Allen placed his hand over hers and pressed her palm into her cheek. "I'll give you anything you want Hitomi." He leaned forward and kissed her on the forehead. "Just stay here on Gaea, with me." He whispered.

The days that followed were pure heaven. Allen handled Hitomi with kid gloves. He was the perfect gentleman, never asking for more than a peck on the cheek, always complimenting her and spending any free time he had with her. He watched over her like a hawk as well. If Merle was anywhere around then she hadn't tried anything new.

Hitomi swallowed a mouthful of air and tried to force some oxygen back into her lungs. They burned slightly, but it was a good feeling. She hadn't been allowed to exert herself phyisically since the attack until now and she really needed to do some running to clear her head. She was getting closer to Allen and getting to know him a lot better lately. They talked all the time. She told him all about her family and what her life like was on the Mystic Moon. It wasn't easy explaining things like trains and television to someone who had never seen such things, but Allen was a good listener. She knew she loved him, but she wondered if she could really live on Gaea for the rest of her life. She would have to give up everything she knew and let go of so many loved ones. She wondered if anyone back home was worried about her. Obviously she'd cause a lot of hurt if she never returned, but she would cause a lot of hurt here if she left. She would hurt Allen, again, and that's something that she didn't want to do.

"Hitomi?"

"What?" She whirled around, surprised to see Allen standing behind her.

"I've been calling you. You know you shouldn't be this far away from the city. It's not safe."

"Yes I know."

"And what about your injuries? You know you should be taking it easy."

"Yes I know, but Millerna said..."

"And there's the baby to think of too. You need to stay off your feet Hitomi." Allen scolded her, gently yet firmly.

Hitomi could see the worry on his face, so she decided not to argue with him, this time. "I'm sorry Allen, but I've been so terribly bored being stuck first in bed and then indoors. I just wanted to run a little, but I will try to stay closer to the city."

"Please do. I know that Merle hasn't tried anything lately, but I don't want to take any unnecessary risks." Allen placed his hand on Hitomi's shoulder and squeezed it gently. "I just want you to be safe." He then leaned forward and wrapped his arms around her.

"Allen!" Hitomi whacked him in the back of the head. "Stop I'm all sweaty!"

Allen pulled back and wrinkled his nose. "Yes you are." He laughed at the frown on her face and pulled her off of her feet and into his arms.

"Hey what are you doing?"

"I'm carrying you back to Asturia."

"I can walk, you know."

"No, no more exerting yourself today. I told you that you need to stay off of your feet."

"You've got to be kidding. First of all pregnant women should get plenty of excercise to stay healthy and secondly, I'm barely a month pregnant."

"Well I'm sorry Hitomi but as long as you're in my care, I'm not letting you do anything that can hurt you or the baby."

"Wow you really are chivalrous. I wonder if you're still going to be this way when we are married and have a house full of kids." Allen stopped dead in his tracks and looked down in Hitomi's eyes. "You said the offer was still good."

"Do you mean it Hitomi?"

She nodded and twirled a golden lock around her finger. "I'm still confused about a lot of things, but I'm not confused about this Allen. I love you."

Allen just smiled at her. He didn't need to say it back, because they both knew how he felt. Celena was of course delighted. She wanted them to get married right away. Since Hitomi didn't know anything about the traditional marriage ceremony on Gaea, she left the planning to Celena and Millerna, who seems quite happy with announcement. It didn't take the pair long to get everything set up.

Hitomi looked at herself in the mirror. She hardly recognized herself in this gown. It was a little more decorative then what she would've liked, but she was starting to show a little, so she wanted something that would take emphasis away from her stomach. Millerna had given her a diamond and pearl pendant to wear. Hitomi reached behind her to take off the moonstone pendant, when she touched the clasp she saw herself with a little boy. He had dark hair and was sitting on her lap, when he moved, she could see her belly was swollen. She hunched over and gabbed her stomach. The little boy ran off and returned with Allen in tow. Hitomi saw herself give birth and Allen hand her their daughter.

The vision warmed her heart and she knew when she took off the pendant that she would never put it back on again. 'I won't go back.' She thought.

Hitomi jumped when she heard a knock at the door. She nearly fainted when she opened it and saw Van staring at her. He looked miserable. "Van."

"Hitomi, may I come in." She nodded, unsure of what he wanted. "I heard that you and Allen were getting married."

"Yes."

"Why?"

Hitomi sighed, she really didn't want to hurt him more, but he wasn't making it easier for her. "Because I love him."

"But you and I were meant to be. I love you." Van's eyes were glowing with unshed tears. "How can you marry Allen?"

"Van please stop. You may think you love me, but I'm not the same girl I was when I first met you. We've both changed and I just don't feel the same about you as I did before. Please don't be hurt. I know that this is right. We aren't fate and somewhere out there is a woman who will love you with all her heart."

Van shook his head, but looked her straight in the eye. "If that is the way you feel then there's nothing more for me to say. Goodbye Hitomi." Van turned to leave.

"No! I won't let you hurt Lord Van like this!" Merle jumped in through the open window and lunged at Hitomi, but Van drew his sword and levelled it at her.

"Merle, I told you not to come. I won't let you hurt Hitomi!"

"But..."

"I said go!" Merle hissed but hung her head and left. Allen came bursting through the door and saw Van with his sword held out.

"Van! Get away from Hitomi!" He pulled out his sword and stood between Van and Hitomi.

"It's okay Allen. Van and I were just talking when Merle came in and Van defended me." She laid her had on Allen's shoulder to try to calm him down.

"I will talk to Merle and make her understand that she is to never hurt you. I don't want that." Van said to Hitomi as he sheathed his sword. "I'll leave it to you, to protect her from now on." He said to Allen as he left the room.

"Hitomi, are you okay?" Allen asked as he sheathed his sword and looked her over.

"Yes, but I feel bad that I didn't tell Van about the baby." She laid her hand on her stomach.

"It's for the best. If anyone knows that your child is the heir to Fanelia, there would be many problems in the future. There could even be a war for the throne. That would just hurt the kingdom."

"I know you're right, but I feel like I just lied to him." Hitomi sighed and then threw her hands up in front of her face. "Allen you're not supposed to see the bride before the wedding!"

"I'm not?"

"No, it's bad luck."

"Oh well, I guess I'll leave then."

Hitomi grabbed his arm. "Well it's too late now, you've already seen me."

Allen cocked his head a little, but figured it was just a mood swing, due to the pregnancy and felt thankful that she wasn't in tears. "Yes I have. You look beautiful." He leaned forward to kiss her on the cheek. "Are you ready?"

Hitomi grabbed the diamond and pearl necklace off the dresser and moved her hair while Allen secured it around her neck. "I'm ready, let's go." She turned around and linked her arm into his, and they walked off towards the alter.

*I know this isn't exactly the way it happened, but it works better this way, don't you think?

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