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Last time on The Awakening of Rutilus Flumen: The Battle of Wild Forest Barrier, on the outskirts of what used to be the ancient Merchant City branching both Fanelia and Zaibach, is about to unfold. Merle, along with The Mutts, have begun the march northeast to join the other quadrants already there and holding the territory from the Trimane victory.

Meanwhile, in Hospesland, Yukari is still in Gutte with her sister and aunt. She meets Major Adolphus at a small party and the pair hit it off - though she doesn't know much about him. Amano is still in Castra. He was deemed unfit to lead since the toll of losing Hitomi has led him to making mistakes during drills.

Back in Fanelia, Dryden, the morning after getting his briefing on his battle location, spoke with Millerna and got upset when she confessed to loving Allen. Gadeth, the ever-lunatic angel of comfort, cheered him up. Hitomi figured out that the new mechanism on the six red melefs marching from Zaibach might allow them to fly. Van hears of her observations and, after she has an embarrassing fail at controlling Rutilus' Guymelef form, he takes Hitomi to the gardens to speak with her and give her a gift. He ends up showing her his wings, but the promising situation derails as he discourages her from going to battle. Hitomi, now thoroughly upset, grabs the gift and Transports back to the Guymelef Chapel to get Rutilus in her necklace form. Back in her rooms, she opens Van's gift. It's her very own cloak.

Morning came in the blink of an eye.

She wasn't sure if she'd slept. She was pretty sure she'd just laid her head down on the red satin pillow and now outside the open window was suddenly a gloomy, cloudy morning instead of a dark night. Hitomi, groggy and groaning, stretched against the coverlet and her arm stroked the black cloak that she'd curled up with.

She reveled in the comfort it gave her. The fabric was smooth, smoother than Van's had been, and so soft. It was strange how different and yet similar they were. Van's had been friendly, inviting - strangely not unlike an excited pet wanting attention.

Her cloak felt dignified, but lazy - puddling on her like a comfortable cat spreading out over its master's legs. She ran her fingers down the gentle fabric and got a warm, tingling feeling from it. Almost like a silent purr.

With a small giggle, she sat up and pulled the edge closer to study the spiral gold embroidered at the hem. Her fingers touched the top of a swirl and an instant heat hit her chest - her vox jumping forward, reacting to it. Hitomi jerked back, remembering the last time her vox had hit a print on a cloak.

Van's had basically exploded.

But… but this was hers.

And her cloak was still radiating with that idle happiness.

Slowly, ever so slowly, Hitomi let only a trickle of vox slide down her arm to her pointer finger. Timidly, she poked the swirl once more. The twisting design instantly became animated as her magic touched it, weaving in and out of itself just like her armor.

It was beautiful! It was perfect! She laughed in delight and the cloak felt self-righteously pleased.

The thick slice of guilt that had stayed with her since unwrapping it last night tightened in her belly and Hitomi let go of the cloak to rub her tired green eyes. It plopped on her lap with the grace of a sleepy kitten.

I must apologize to him.

Yes, you should. Rutilus immediately chimed in, the pendant at her throat flickering.

I feel terrible about last night. Am I a brat? You can tell me. I deserve it.

You were tired. You have endured a very stressful last few days. Van saying he didn't want you in the battle was the last thing you needed to hear. Honestly, I'm surprised you didn't snap sooner.

That's the thing, Rutilus! I shouldn't have snapped! And especially to Van! I mean, he… he was just telling me he was worried about me in his own special annoying way. And he's the king! He's entitled to have an opinion! I mean, he has a point, right? He can actually fly!

Hitomi felt her cheeks grow warm as she remembered his soft feathers on her fingertips and let out a groan. She was sorely tempted to cover herself in her new black cloak and shut out the rest of the day. Balgus would probably come for her eventually. She could hide until then, right?

No, you can't. The River sighed, reading her thoughts.

With a groan, she rolled off the bed to search for her dirty training gear - which had been shoved off the bed sometime during the night.

I'm so embarrassed. I should be better with my emotions. I thought I was better. I already humiliated myself at the end of the Trials. Van must think I'm a lunatic.

You weren't thinking rationally. It happens.

But lives depend on me thinking rationally! I can't let myself lose control just because of stress! I must be better! Stronger! I have an army to lead and only one more day to prepare! No more mistakes! Having an outburst like that just proves his point! I'm unfit!

If you want my opinion, I think you should take today off.

Take today off. Hitomi's mouth fell open and she froze with one foot in the air ready for her leg brace. Take today off!? Are you insane!? This isn't like I'm working at a simple shop and can close for a day, Rutilus! I'm learning how to command an army! We are marching out tomorrow! TOMORROW! That means I only have a handful of hours to-

Okay, okay, bad choice of words! Maybe just… I don't know! Try to relax a bit? The River stirred in exasperation in her head.

Yanking on the brace and snapping the buckle above her knee, she searched for the other one and found it under the bed. Relax? You want me to relax? I repeat: lives are depending on me!

That doesn't mean you can't escape for a bit. How much more do you need to do to prepare?

Really? What do I NOT have to do! Master your Guymelef stances as well as start using vox magic with you, get the updated intel on Zaibach's recent movements, memorize the Wild Forest map, apologize to Van-

Fine! Busy schedule! Don't blame me when you go insane! Ever stop to think why you were messing up those stances? Why you couldn't do it?

Hitomi huffed with irritation. I wasn't concentrating hard enough-

You are concentrating too hard! To be chosen by me is to conform to situations. I have told you this over and over. You are letting yourself get dragged down by stress and responsibilities. Your instincts are your greatest assets. Think of the Trials. Think of how you took each Vehotus out only knowing a few details of their powers. That is you. The real you. Who cares if you screw up one little thing! Slid your foot too far? You'll work around that and use it to your advantage. Swung too high? You remember how to backswing, right? Use that momentum to snap the hilt over your hand. Take what you've learned, yes, and practice the movements, but don't let them restrain what you can do! Adaptation, my dear Hitomi Kanzaki, is your true power.

Hitomi's small shoulders, which she had just finished strapping into her smelly leather armor, dropped two inches as she let go of a long breath between parted lips. The words washed over her and her heart seemed to sink into her boots. Conforming. Adapting. She still had to learn the basics, but she could also use her own talents at turning certain situations to her favor. Hitomi had to admit that that was what thrilled her the most when she fought. She was one step ahead no matter what her opponent tried. Stressful as the Trials had been, every victory against Van's elite told her she could do it. She had a right to be there.

If only everyone else could see that, too. The talks of her inadequacy were beginning to take their toll.

And the fact that Van had agreed with them…

See? No wonder you snapped.

Shaking her head, she turned to her vanity to pull her hair into a messy ponytail tied off with leather string.

The Trials don't count. I only had to think of myself. Not thousands of Fanelian soldiers. That was one-on-one-

The Vehotus can handle their men just fine without you. Just because you are Vehotus Commander doesn't mean you need to micromanage. They know what they're doing. Your main objective are those red melefs. Once they are taken care of, you'll be joining Balgus on the frontlines. He'll be there to help you.

With a thoughtful look in the mirror, Hitomi watched as she pressed her lips together into a thin line. Rutilus had a good point. Sure, she'd probably lead the initial charge, but she did have other people to fall back on. Though the worst of the battle was on her shoulders with the Red Guymelefs, she had to trust the others to do their job - just as they trusted her to take care of the main threat.

Ultimately, Fanelia was banking on her doing what she did best: adapting to a situation where anything could happen. The realization sent a rush of warm affection in her heart for the River. That's right. She wouldn't have to worry about the squadrons because that was the Vehotus' job. She wouldn't have to worry about the frontline because Balgus would be there to help her.

There we go… you are feeling much better.

A thin smile slipped on her lips.

Thank you, Rutilus.

You're welcome.

Turning on her toe, she grabbed the edge of her new cloak and swept it around her neck. Fastening the clasp at her throat, she gasped. The rich fabric draped like a black satin waterfall off her shoulders, dipping to curve behind her elbows and hang behind the heels of her dirty boots. The sheen of embroidered golden swirls on the hem were still swirling from being touched by her magic. Reaching up with both hands, green eyes wide in childlike wonder, Hitomi pulled the hood over her forehead and immediately felt as if she was wrapped in a comforting memory. The grassy smell of the vineyards in Praeter, the sighing warmth of phantom arms hugging her gently - a prick of heat trickled in her chest and she realized her core had cracked open once more, power flooding slowly through her system. She let the power slide through her veins, keeping the flow calm and controlled. Slowly, the green of her eyes made way for a golden hue.

Hitomi stood looking at her reflection and her mouth popped opened with surprise.

Hey, I didn't know my eyes changed color when I used my vox! She leaned in closer. I'm kind of freaky looking…

This is a lovely gift, Rutilus chimed in with a delighted sigh.

More reason to go apologize. Hitomi's shoulders straightened with resolve.

Well, what are you waiting for?

Instantly, her spine slouched with indecision. Really? Right now?

No time like the present! You know how to get to his rooms, right?

Hitomi blushed and pushed the hood off her head. I think? But… just openly going to the royal towers? In the morning? Is that… polite? I'm still unsure about the etiquette in Fanelia. In Hospesland, it would be very improper for a woman to go to a man's quarters without some form of escort-

I'm your escort.

You're an invisible voice in my head. You don't count.

You're stalling.

No, I'm thinking this through.

What did I say about overthinking things? Trust me, now is a good time to listen to instincts. Besides, what's wrong with the Commander of the Vehotus speaking to her king?

That's true…

So, let's go!

Taking one step towards the door, Hitomi stopped short with a mischievous glint in her eye.

Wait a moment - who said I was taking you with me?

Wait. What? Why wouldn't you? You should probably hurry! I'm sure Van is already-

To be honest, it'd probably be better if I did this alone, without you.

The River's instant indignation was high as it was hilarious. But you said you needed an escort!

As previously pointed out, you kind of live inside my head at the moment. That's not really escorting, to be honest.

No! No! You are taking me with you this time!

I don't know…

Do not drop me off to Escaflowne! Hitomi, I swear!

Unable to bite back her laugh, Hitomi snorted at the River's desperation. Alright, she acquiesced, I guess you can come along. You better behave. I have to make sure and apologize properly. I can't do that with you giggling in my head.

I will be a silent spectator. Can I just add one thing?

What?

This might be a 'follow your instincts' kind of thing? Don't think too hard about waking him up so early in the morning and that he might not be dressed properly or-

Rutilus!

Hitomi scowled as she opened the door - already regretting taking her along.

He hadn't been able to sleep.

Glancing at his mirror, Van groaned and rubbed his eyes with the palms of his hands. Dragging his fingers down his face, his elbows resting on his vanity, he let out a low sigh.

He'd done it again. He'd gotten her upset. And for good reason. Van's stomach tightened around the hard rock of self-loathing. Law, he was such a hypocrite. Telling off everyone who spoke down about her and her abilities, and what did he do? Get her alone for the first time since who knows when, show her his wings, and then completely botch the entire situation by not telling her how he truly feels about her.

No, he had to say the exact same thing everyone else had said about her. That she shouldn't go. That she couldn't handle it. Van's anxiety spiked as he remembered her stumbling with Rutilus in the gardens. No wonder she was having trouble.

She probably felt like no one believed in her. And now he was included in that list.

"You gotta fix this," he murmured to his reflection. "Explain to her… explain…"

Explain what? That he secretly agreed with Modocca and the others? That he truly, deep down, didn't think she would survive the battle? That he didn't trust her to come back home in one piece? His anxiety skyrocketed.

He didn't know what to say.

Van's thoughts tossed back to Abon, his ancestor and first Pilot of Escaflowne. Had he felt the same way? Sending someone so special… so innocent to battle. Van had experienced battle. The rage of it. The terror and fire.

"She will be taken away from you, Van Slanzar de Fanel."

He had tried to shut out that deep voice - that hard discussion with Escaflowne from the other day. His eyes tight on his troubled reflection, the deep voice continued as if the Guymelef were standing before him now:

"It is not so simple. The world is moved by legends and the little Hitomi is one that will both move it and be tied to it. As are Rutilus and I."

He had to do something. What if he lost her?

"The first Pilot of my beloved died in his arms."

Standing up from the stool, Van straightened the black cloak on his shoulders and slipped the hood over his sleep-bruised eyes. He needed to think. Needed to breathe. Needed to talk to her and try to dig himself out of these raging emotions.

Dawn was barely beginning to creep over the edges of the horizon, spreading over the lovely gardens. There was some time before the new intel came through of Zaibach's movements. He could go to her rooms… maybe… possibly… A blush hit his cheeks as he turned and his hand stopped on the door handle to his room. Was she awake? Would it be appropriate?

Van groaned. A grown man. A powerful, vox-wielding king that could fight, fly, and Pilot a legendary dragon-giant. And he could barely stop his nervousness at possibly seeing her in her nightdress.

Which, he had to remind himself, he'd seen before. The memory of their intimate moment together in front of Dilandau's burial urn strengthened his resolve. She'd held him as he cried.

"Wish me luck, old friend," Van whispered before turning the handle and sliding into the dark hallway. Startling a guard as he exited the tower, Van nodded through his hood.

If he took the way through the back kitchens, it might be less suspicious - not that he had to really hide.

Irritated with his own thoughts, he started briskly down the hallway - his cloak happily flapping at his heels.

She cleared the last step in the back kitchens. The cooks were hard at work, ignoring her presence as they woke the ovens, chopped food, and shouted orders. Hanging herbs, sacks of flour and containers of dried vegetables lined the walls and shelves. The warm smell of fresh bread bolstered her steps further and she hurried past the bustling chefs and servants towards the northern stairwell.

"Kanzaki!"

She stumbled to a stop as an unwanted growling voice snapped her name through the hustle and bustle. Her cloak's silky hood flipped over her eyes as if to hide her further - but the damage was done. She'd been spotted just at the doorway, her hand reaching for the handle.

So close.

With a tight sigh that ended in a low groan, Hitomi closed her eyes briefly before turning to face the scarred, scowling face of Balgus. He was starting to stand where he'd been perched on a stool near the stew fire, his usual training gear exchanged for simple cream pants and a thin cotton shirt.

I have the worst luck.

Oh, no! What is he doing here?

Your guess is as good as mine.

Maybe try Transport? Get away?

As much as I want to, I shouldn't. He will be insufferable to me later if I do.

Good point.

Despite the roar of his voice, he had a somewhat pleased spark in his dark eyes.

It made her irrationally worried.

"You have received your cloak! Excellent! I was just about to come get you! Take out Rutilus Flumen from the Chapel and meet me on training ground four. I was wanting to see a few more stances before the Briefing this morning-"

"Actually, I have something I need to... take care of first?" She ended the sentence in a question and a meek smile, scrunching her shoulders passively. Her heart sank with her hope as the pleased look in his eye was immediately extinguished.

And the following sharp glare made her shoulders schlump submissively.

"I'll meet you there," she sighed.

"Good." He sat back down and she noticed him picking at a half-empty plate of eggs.

She felt Rutilus stir with indignation. But-but what about Van?

He'll just have to wait. I'll see him at the Briefing anyway. Reaching for her core, she reluctantly summoned her vox and sped her mind's eye to the Chapel.

But you will forget to bring me along!

Hitomi rolled her eyes, but didn't answer; ready to step through-

Just as the door opened and Van stumbled to a halt in front of her.

His eyes wide, his hair tossing over his eyes, her name was on his lips as his right hand automatically flew up to touch her.

"Hitomi!"

But Hitomi, having already taken the step for Transport, disappeared in a wisp of gold just out of his reach.

GO BACK! Rutilus' voice shrieked in her frozen head.

With her mouth still open, her hand raised to where he had just stood. She blinked in the soft light shewn by the lining stone pillars and turned with small steps to face the two kneeling Guymelefs.

"Is my love upset? I feel anger…" Escaflowne's resonate voice echoed from the white helm. "What has happened?"

Van was there. He'd called out to her. And she'd just disappeared on him.

Hitomi let out a tight breath. "I… I'm not sure how to answer that, Escaflowne."

I DO! Go back! He was coming to see you!

He was, wasn't he? The realization hit her fast, spreading a heat inside that had nothing to do with her vox. Her lips curled up as a strange giggle escaped her. He had been on his way to see her. Just as she was going to see him.

And she'd Transported away just as they'd reached each other.

That was the worst timing ever!

The giggles grew into a loud laugh.

"That was… that was so bad!" she choked out. "I can't believe it!"

"What was bad?" The bewildered white Guymelef inquired, sounding more or less a little apprehensive.

What are you waiting for!? GO BACK!

A sudden thought stopped her from doing just that. A quick epiphany that was growing further and further into an idea. She frowned in consideration.

Rutilus, we almost reached each other… but I Transported away…

I'm AWARE!

Feeling the River stir in her head distractingly, she knew she needed to test something. Rutilus was too agitated to follow her thought process.

It might work though.

"I need to practice with Rutilus today, just for an hour or two," Hitomi said with an almost business-like aura suddenly settling on her shoulders. She nodded to Escaflowne with Rutilus still screaming in her head. Striding forward, she took the stairs two at a time while slipping off the pendant from her neck. The blissful quiet of her own thoughts was an instant relief. As soon as she put the necklace in the jewel-

"-better get back there, you irritating scamp! I am a goddess and I command you to obey me!" Rutilus' echoing screech thundered in the chapel as soon as she was inside.

Placing her hand on the cockpit, it hissed as it opened for her. Hitomi settled inside and set her mind's eye to training ground four.

"What is the matter with you?" Rutilus growled.

"This is more important than making up with Van."

"I STRONGLY disagree - but go on."

"I've got to test it."

"Test what?"

She smiled as the training ground materialized before her - the trees swaying in the brisk morning breeze.

"My adaptability."

"Where-Where'd she go?" Van whirled to Balgus, his wild eyes tinged with scarlet. Everywhere cooks and servants gasped with shocked cries of "Your Highness!" "It's the king!" before dropping into bows and curtsies.

Van didn't pay attention to them. He could still see the look of shocked surprise on her face.

A shot of delight rushed through him. She was wearing her cloak!

Balgus, his mouth having fallen open, blinked at him for a moment. "T-training ground four, Lord Van - for Guymelef stances."

Van groaned, his hand reaching up to rub his forehead and toss his raven fringe in frustration. "This is bad timing."

"And why is that?" the old man quirked an eyebrow.

"She won't want to talk to me while she's training. Especially after what happened last night." His hand dropped limply to his side and he shook his head. "I've already seen her blunder with Rutilus' Guymelef form. I'm sure me being there to watch her train right now is the last thing she wants."

Balgus blinked slowly, his large arms crossing over his broad chest. With a knowing glint in his beady eyes, he said, "Might I offer some advice, Lord Van?"

"Knock yourself out," Van grumbled, glancing at Balgus with disquiet palpably written on his face.

"I don't particularly care about if I hurt Kanzaki's feelings. I respect her power and she does have some clever moments - however few and far between those are - but I've learned she tends to use words as fuel."

Van frowned. "What do you mean?"

"That little brat was such a pain in my backside on the way up here," the old man smirked, leaning back against the stone wall almost proudly. "We fought every time we had to speak to each other. If I'd let her win, she wouldn't be the warrior she is now. She didn't want to wake up. She didn't want to properly learn swordplay. She couldn't control the vox. She didn't want this or that or the other or 'there's too much sand'." Balgus' terrible attempt at a falsetto almost made Van smile.

"So, you know what? I told her exactly what was on my mind. I didn't hold anything back. It's a good thing I did. She used that anger and now she's your Vehotus Commander. So, if I were you, I wouldn't worry too much. This might have had a good effect on her."

"I told her I didn't think she was ready for battle," Van confessed softly. His stomach turned with shame. "I'm just as bad as the rest of them, Balgus. I started spouting off all the different reasons why she shouldn't go to war tomorrow."

"And I've called her useless, worthless, unproductive, lazy, insolent, and bumptious." The smirk grew wider on the old man's lips. "And you know what? She proves me wrong. Every time."

"I still want to talk to her," Van declared, his back straightening with resolve.

Balgus shrugged. "By all means. I certainly won't stop you."

"Training ground four?"

"That's the one. I was going to go with her now, buuut-" Balgus stretched his back with a sigh, "-I think I'll stick around here for a bit longer. Maybe get another plate of eggs-"

The rest of the sentence was unheard as Van disappeared with a flicker of red vapor.

"My dear, I know I said to take a break today, but I just have to ask - why are we standing here doing nothing? Let's get this sword out and practice a little bit at least."

Hitomi smiled. "I'm not doing training for your sword, Rutilus."

"Okay... so, why are we here then?"

"The red melefs can fly, right?"

"That's the rumor."

"Well then, what's the point in doing drills on the ground? I'm not going to fight them there. I need a way to reach them if I want to destroy them."

"...I'm not following."

Her smile grew wider and she felt a squirm of excitement. "I'm going to Transport into the sky."

Something crunched inside the metal monster. "Wait. Wait, wait, wait - this is a bad idea, Hitomi!"

"What do you mean?" she asked with a touch of sweet innocence.

"Whatever you are feeling on the inside, it's not worth dying for. Do you know how long it took to find you? Don't give up like this!"

"Oh, Law, Rutilus! I'm not going to die!" Hitomi snorted impatiently. "Just be quiet for a second. This is going to work. I just know it. Adaptable, right? There has to be something I can do."

"Ooooh, boy… I'm afraid to look. Why did I have to have a suicidal Pilot? Why can't you be more like Escaflowne's Pilot?"

"He can fly already. I gotta figure out my own way."

She'd done this before - well, not specifically like this, but she knew what to do. She'd followed a bird's flight with her mind's eye once while meditating - focused on it, but not stepped through the doorway. She had seen the world as if looking through its eyes - high above the treetops.

Hitomi widened her scope - backing it away from herself. It wasn't a matter of picking a specific location, like zipping to her rooms or the chapel.

This was different. She had to feel for it.

She could see the Golden Guymelef standing still, the surrounding trees rustling.

Further…

Her mind's eye backed away from training ground four, the beginnings of training grounds three and five on the other side coming into view.

Further…

She could see the gardens now as well as the flat top of Gadeth's tower. It looked like it was smoking. He must have caught something on fire again.

Further…

There was the chapel in the trees - ah, and there! That was where her room was! The castle was completely in view now. She passed through the overcast sky and shivered at the cold wetness of the clouds that never touched her skin.

Here… this was a good height to start from.

"Please don't die…"

"I can do this! Just trust me."

"O-Oh, trust is kind of all I have going for me right now."

Opening the door to Transport, she stepped through just as a crimson flash appeared by her side.

"Hito-"

She gasped, her golden eyes popping open at the familiar voice.

But she was already through the doorway.

And falling from the sky.

Van stumbled over his feet, his hand reaching out to catch Rutilus' flank to follow the Transport - but she disappeared with a wisp of gold.

"Damn it!" He growled. "Why does she keep running away?"

A strange noise hit his ears and he frowned, looking up.

"WHAAAAAA! THIS WAS A BAD IDEAAA!"

"I'VE GOT THIS!"

Hitomi held on tight to her controls, her whirling mind filled with adrenaline and her stomach hitching with pressure of gravity. The wind whipped the purple cape, whistling deafeningly against the thick metal of Rutilus' arms and legs. Hitomi forced herself to remain calm, teeth gritted, eyes clenched. Eagle-spread, the Guymelef hurtled back towards earth - at a much faster speed than she'd anticipated.

"Here we go," she breathed - and a scream ripped from her throat as she tore her core apart in her chest.

"Hitomi!"

The vox, usually held back, was unleashed into a tsunami of golden lava, instantly drowning her in its intensity. It waved through her skin, washing her with a terrible glow, spreading to cover Rutilus within the span of a moment's panicked breath.

Vibrant eyes opening, Hitomi was magic.

She was light.

And she could do it.

The large metallic arms were hers. The powerful legs felt like her own. Her power coursed through the heavy limbs like her body. Blood, soul, and complete.

They were one.

I am Rutilus Flumen!

Pushing her arms against her plummeting fall, Rutilus pulsed the power from her hands - a Mind Wave blasting from her fingertips. It didn't stop. The Mind Wave continued to stream forth - rocketing her into a tight spin in the sky. Rutilus screamed, but kept the power flowing through her body - a barely controlled tempest. Holding her arms to her sides, it shot her upright - falling feet first.

Her momentum was stalling, but it wasn't enough. The Guymelef was still too heavy.

The ground was coming quickly now-

Her Mind's Eye opened and she shot above the clouds.

Taking the Transport step, she was back in the sky, the misty overcast dampening her metallic limbs. The water vapor clung to her, resonated with her power. Rutilus kept the Mind Wave pulsing down her arms, the vox acting like a forcefield. Strengthening, solidifying, lacing together. A golden web accelerated out of the palms of her hands, trailing like liquid fire from her fingertips to cover her feet.

Her fall was slower - so much slower. She was air - like a simple vapor in the sky. The streams of power - fortifying, intensifying underneath her. The clouds came with her as she slowly descended from the sky, trailing behind her.

Another pulse, another push with the vox...

And - she stopped.

Standing weightless in the sky on a blanket of gold.

Her battle with gravity was won.

She could see the world below, tiny specs of people running - pointing - staring at her. They filled the palace gardens, the training grounds and pathways. The people, her people, cried to her from the ground - shouts of awe, fear, reverence.

Worship.

She took a step.

The Mind Wave moved with her - molded like water under her feet. The clouds followed as well - attracted by her power, swirling around her gently like waves on a tide. Reaching back, she grabbed the hilt of her sword and the golden blade emerged with a blast of lighting - parting the sky with white-hot light. Her foot slid to the left and she swung the sword into charging stance.

The clouds twisted faster, tightening around her body as she slashed through the air, her sword singing a terrible-beautiful song.

-Backstep, hilt twist, left block, right-step for undercut-

"Hitomi!"

His cloak was tossed, his shirt ripped from his chest, and his wings burst from his back as he stared in horror at the spinning golden mecha in the sky. Bending to jump into the air, he stopped - his eyes suddenly losing sight of her…

She'd disappeared. Her golden Transport leaving the imprint of a melef for a brief second. His mahogany gaze searched desperately.

Where?

Where?

Where?

Where was she?

Van almost fell off his feet, his mouth falling open as the impossible suddenly emerged from the sky.

She dropped from the clouds, slow and steady, like a falling star. Cold chills of stupefaction shivered down his spine. His hands trembled, his legs felt weak. The waves of hard relief, fear, and admiration crested over his shoulders.

How… how did she do this? How did she simply…? It was… She was...

Floating.

A strangled noise left his throat as she took a step in the sky - her foot falling on the golden Mind Wave. Another noise left him as she reached up and her sword sent a sharp clap of lightning from the swirling clouds. There were voices, shouts, cheers, prayers from all around the castle grounds. Crowds of people watched her as she executed a perfect charging sequence in the sky.

In the sky… she was doing her training in the sky...

"Heh, well isn't that something."

A deep voice broke Van's mind-numbing awe and he turned to the old man, unsteady knees almost tripping him up. Balgus stood, unsurprised, arms crossed over his broad chest and his gaze cast to the sky with a thinly veiled smile on his lips.

Glancing at Van, he gestured with a thick hand to the sweeping golden goddess, who was slowly beginning her descent back to the ground.

"See what I mean? Like fuel."

The Mind Wave was harder to tame than it was to build. The energy had flowed so perfectly ragingly hot; the freedom of pure vox urged to keep flying from her fingertips. Her willpower had engulfed her, washed her. Rutilus coaxed the Mind Wave back, the laced power begrudgingly unweaving.

As gravity took hold, slowly, steadily, she left the sky.

Eyes clenched in concentration- wait.

Rutilus didn't have eyes.

Fingers clenched at the controls - but Rutilus' hands were sucking in the Mind Wave. A breath released. A heart hammered in her chest. A core, buried in lava, trembled with in tumultuous flow. She was untangling, receding with the power. Tingling pinpricks of feeling jabbed at her limbs.

And her name left her lips - "Rutilus."

"You are Hitomi."

She blinked, the grate of the Guymelef's protective covering appearing before her like double vision. It cleared with another few blinks - and she sat back in the cockpit, her body suddenly feeling weighted and heavy. Keeping the power steady, she could see training ground four slowly coming into focus.

"You alright?"

"I think so… yeah..."

The Guymelef let out a hiss. "That was extremely dangerous. You could have lost yourself doing a stunt like that. If you rush the power too much it'll overtake you. I'm pretty sure this was one of Balgus' lessons-"

"I know, but... I did it… I-I actually did it!" Lips parting slightly, a smile grew into a beaming grin. A laugh escaped her. "That was amazing! I'm so… I don't even know how to describe it! I feel like… like the sky's the limit and it literally was! Let's do this again! Oh, Rutilus, maybe I can fly! Maybe I can run and transport with the momentum and use that force to increase my speed! Or," another idea fired in her head, "I can start off with the Mind Wave! Lift into the sky! I'd control my levitation! Or I can-

"Now, now, let's not get too crazy here. I'm not too keen on falling from the sky. But, I have to hand it to you, girl. Way to adapt." The pride was ringing in every syllable. "Just for future reference, since it seems this will be a thing, maybe don't release all your power in one shot next time? You should be careful. You were lost for a moment there."

Not even Rutilus' scolding could damper her delight. "You pulled me back! I'm fine! I just needed to figure it out. I showed them, Rutilus! I am unstoppable!"

"Well, I hope you can keep up this new-found confidence, because Van's still here."

Her smile immediately tore off her lips and her golden eyes searched the field - focusing promptly on tan skin and white spread wings. The Guymelef's feet touched the ground and Hitomi let out a long sigh, setting Rutilus into a kneel. Opening the cockpit, she gasped as a vision of black hair and white feathers suddenly scooped her from her seat, tan arms cradling her tightly against him. A rush of nervous pleasure washed through her as he hovered in the air for a moment - a breath of indecision flashing across his handsome features. Her stomach lurched as he suddenly took off with her, leaving the ground behind.

"Hitomi!?" Rutilus' startled voice called before the golden mecha disappeared behind the turrets. He climbed in altitude - soaring above the castle.

"Van!"

"I finally caught you!" His voice was rough, gravelly. Looking at his dark eyes, she couldn't read the emotions flashing across them - there were too many.

"Where are we going?"

"To my chambers!"

"What!?" She squeaked, her arms wrapping around his neck tightly. He grunted, his altitude dropping a bit. "Why!?"

"I don't know! I'm just going there!" He was shouting, a touch of anger in his tone - but there was a smile on his lips. A short laugh barked from him, but was immediately followed with a disapproving glare at her. Then his face softened into something akin to affection and she felt her heart pulse hard in her chest.

Wow. He was an emotional wreck.

It took less than a minute for him to dive steeply down to the royal towers. She let out a light whimper of fear, but he expertly slipped into a large open window - the wings instantly disappearing from his back. Sliding on the cream carpet, he straightened with her still in his arms, white feathers drifting to litter the cluttered floor.

The room was an office; very untidy, with books and bits of paper scattered across the large desk. Above it was a giant detailed map on the wall - depicting Fanelia, Zaibach to the north, and a touch of Hospesland territory across the large Wasteland Desert.

Setting her feet down, he immediately wrapped her into a tight hug, pressing her head to his bare chest. His heart was hammering against her ear. His fingers tangled in her messy hair - which had come unbound from its ponytail sometime during their flight.

Her face was hot. Her stomach curled.

He was trembling.

"Van… I-"

"Just…" He stopped, audibly swallowing. She felt him take a long breath. "I… I need to get my thoughts in order. First, I wanted to apologize to you. I should have never said-"

He stopped as she shifted against him to loosen his arms. Resting her palms on his chest gently, his mahogany gaze tossed over her face - grasping for forgiveness. She felt his hand move to cup the side of her jawline. It sent a weird shiver down her spine - a hot coil of nerves knotting in her stomach.

"I was just like the rest of them," he continued. "Doubting you. I had said that I'd be on your side, but then I had to go and ruin it." He let out a bitter chuckle, his eyes dancing to her draping cloak. "I had been waiting for two days to give that to you. I kept waiting for the perfect moment, but I soon realized I'd never get you alone. You were constantly surrounded by people."

"You are a king, Van," she snorted a laugh. "You could have just commanded that I come see you or something."

He frowned. "But there's nothing special about a summons. It had to be… I don't know - better than that!" He released a short breath, crinkles of frustration on his brow. "Then I heard about the melefs and what you said to the Council during the tactical meeting and I just had to see you. Law, and when I finally got you alone like I'd planned, I acted like such an arse-"

"Van," Hitomi cut him off. She sighed and tried not to concentrate on how nice his chest felt under her hands. "I was under so much stress. I never should have snapped at you. You were right to tell me that I'm not ready-"

"No! I shouldn't have-"

"It was true! Even I thought so. That's why it hurt so much to hear it. Especially… from you…" Closing her eyes, she leaned forward to press her forehead against his beating heart. "It was like confirming my own inadequacy. But Rutilus - she reminded me of who I am, of who I'm meant to be, and what I represent."

"Which is-?"

"Water!" She giggled, looking back up at him. "I'm adaptable. I realized that if my enemy can fly, I'll find a way to fly. I don't need wings - though yours are quite lovely." He blushed. "I knew I could do it. I can do anything! I mean, I did that sword charge sequence I kept messing up last night in the air! And didn't plummet to my death or-"

"You scared me," he injected softly.

"I scared myself." She shrugged with a smile.

"I didn't know what to do when I saw you falling like that. At first, I thought about my wings, but you were in Rutilus. I froze. I felt helpless. Much like how I feel about you going to battle. But you can do it. And you're coming back - right?" His throat swallowed audibly. "Back to me?"

"Can't get rid of me that easily," she teased.

Words and thoughts suddenly strangled as something hot ignited behind his eyes. His fingers at her jawline moved up, his thumb stroking her cheek tenderly. His other hand rested on her waist, his grip tightening slightly on her leather armor. She suddenly realized how close they were, her hips almost touching his thigh. The coiling tightened inside her, hard and scorching. A want flooded her system. A want for him to push the boundaries. To pull her closer. To test their limits...

Van's gaze drifted to her lips and she nervously bit them. He let out small groan.

"I-I… I would like…" He was stuttering - but his hand at her waist pulled her closer - pressed her fully against his body. "I would… like to…"

Heart slamming in her ears, cheeks flushed with excitement, adrenaline - anticipation, his face grew nearer and her eyes drifted shut as his nose brushed against hers.

"Like to?" She breathed.

"Kiss you." The words were more of a growl.

Head tilting, there was a touch - a shiver of sensation on her lips-

BOOM!

"LADY HITOMI, ARE YOU IN-AHH!"

The door to the room had burst open and long blond hair had followed it. In surprise, in reflex, in fear, Hitomi's hands shoved hard on Van's chest - effectively breaking them apart. He stumbled back, his mouth open, his hot eyes wide, and he turned his head to stare murderously at the intruder.

Allen, his pale lips parted in shock and his spine ramrod straight, blinked at the two of them with the look of a man who was staring death in the face. The pause and following silence was deafening.

Finally, Allen gestured over his shoulder with a nod. "I-I will let them know… that... "

"Leave. Now," Van snarled.

Allen bolted from the room.

Van turned to her and she glanced back at him - the spice of the moment, shattered. Releasing a long sigh, her shoulders dropped as the heated coiling inside her slowly unraveled. Her gaze dropped to the floor in hard disappointment.

So close.

She had the worst luck.

"Seems they're looking for me."

"Yes." There was still heat in his tone.

"Probably Rutilus screeching about being left behind."

"Is she upset?" He had taken a step closer to her and suddenly the nerves were back in full force - twisting and winding and so deliciously electrifying. Keeping her gaze on the floor, a smile touched her lips.

"She's always upset when I leave her behind - especially when I see you." His warm chest was against her shoulder, a hand was touching her lower back. Hitomi shivered at the touch.

"Why is that?" he purred, his fingers decidedly pulling her to face him.

"You didn't know?" Her head lifted just as his lowered. Her arms reached up to wrap around his neck. Desire - pure and simple, flooded through her veins.

"Know what?" Van whispered. Her eyes fell shut and his forehead touched hers.

"Rutilus has been nagging me to kiss you since I left Hospesland."

The grin was on his voice.

"And what stopped you?"

"This time? Allen."

He laughed and bent his head. She smiled and lifted on her toes. Heads tilted, lips met, and the rush of pleasure tossed her thoughts as he pressed her close. It was warm, lovely, exciting, like falling. Or flying. Or something in-between the two. All she knew were his hands, his lips, the small noise he made when her fingers traveled to his messy hair. A small heat ignited in her chest, brilliant and shining - her core had opened. The power flowed in her veins, down her arms to her fingertips. Likewise, she felt something thrillingly hot against her waist and back - right where his hands rested.

Seemed his core had opened as well.

His vox was strong, but controlled as it slowly seeped through her leather armor and into her skin. She let out a small gasp as the tight coil inside her instantly dove low between her legs. He felt it, too. She knew it when a sudden moan escaped him. The connection of their vox tangled together. His red energy, hot like a fire, flowed with the golden water of her own. She moved her hand from his hair and trailed it down his neck to his shoulder. He shivered at her fingertips and she smiled against his lips - his undoing spiking her confidence.

But he learned quick. His hand at her waist immediately began to drift higher and the flood of his vox ignited a pulse of sensations. She could feel him in it. His warm kindness, the pride of his homeland, the fear he had for them all - for her. Hitomi tried to focus as his fingers brushed to the back of her head, attempting to pinpoint his feelings for her. They rushed to her easily as if waiting to be called.

Van respected her. She could see it as clearly as looking through glass. He'd admired her from the moment she'd escaped Hospesland with him in the dead of night. A picture of herself through Van's eyes formed: vibrant golden eyes, messy, but somehow still beautiful, hair. The dirt on her gear represented her hard work, her dedication to protecting his beloved Fanelia. Her fatigue worried him.

Oh, but he also thought she was charming - and humorous. And yet... wise. Her tactics, her quick cleverness, her tremendous power. More feelings crept in without her asking, flicking before her: fondness, friendship, adoration, devotion, concern, yearning… it all washed with the flavor of desire…

At that discovery, he broke the kiss and she let out a growl of disapproval - which was immediately stifled with a gasp as his head dipped and his lips hit the side of her jaw.

"Ah," her words were weak, "I, um…"

"Yes?" Van murmured against her throat.

"There's a thing about kissing on the neck. If you're not careful you'll leave a mark."

His mouth left and the smirk he shot her was frustratingly adorable. Her lips fell open with surprise. His eyes, a brilliant scarlet, were clouded with touches of gold. "What if I want to leave one?"

"Not ideal considering I'm leading your men into battle tomorrow. I don't think a kiss mark from the king would help me in looking authoritative."

"You can blast anyone who thinks otherwise. You have red in your eyes, by the way. It's beautiful." He grinned at her, looking far too pleased with himself.

She tapped the side of his face with her finger. "You've got some of me in there, too."

"You think I'm kind," he breathed, stealing another kiss, "and pretty."

"Well, you are pretty, but I'm surprised that's all you got."

Van backed away, his hands reaching to cup her face with a serious expression. "I didn't want to see any more. They're your private thoughts, Hitomi. I would never intrude on your-"

Hitomi rolled her eyes with a snort and her hand snatched the back of his neck, dragging his lips back to hers. She flooded her vox up and licked his closed mouth with a sizzling shock of magic on her tongue. The noise he made forced the coiling tighter, her desire deeper, her want digging further. His lips opened, his tongue touched hers, and a connection unlike any other hit them.

See me. Know me. Don't hold back. Relax… She whispered the words through her golden power.

The hitch in his throat told her everything she needed to know. The words flowed, Van's voice speaking through her very core.

You care so deeply, Hitomi. You fear for what is to come. But you love. You love so much. It runs deep and far. It drowns like an ocean. And yet it breathes life. I feel it. I will be engulfed by you and yet I can't help but fly.

Her hands held tightly to his neck and shoulders. His own fingers clasped lower, pressing her, backing her further until she felt the edge of the messy desk on her back.

As fire is tamed by water, I am yours. Van's power purred the promise into her, his hands grasping under her thighs to lift her onto his desk. Papers, books, and a loud paperweight fell to the ground as he immediately closed in the space between their bodies. His waist tucked between her thighs.

So close, so perfectly close.

She broke the kiss and he groaned, his hands tight on her upper thighs. Breathing heavily together, Hitomi glanced into his dazed eyes. They were swimming with gold, the scarlet barely visible in his irises. His shoulders were trembling. His shaking fingers held her tightly and she wrapped her magic infused arms around his neck.

"Say it again." Her voice was less than a whisper.

"As fire is tamed by water, I am yours." The words barely scraped out of his throat. The golden heat of her was in his head, his limbs, his heart. He could feel her everywhere - the pure breath of fresh air of finally - finally - tasting her lovely lips. Law, was there ever a moment he'd experienced such completeness? He could see every memory of her: a small child with a pink pendant. A rebellious teen cutting her hair boy short. A young woman running a household as her father deteriorated before her eyes. A false bravado holding her steadfast as she traveled from her home to a desert on the outskirts of Hospesland. A destiny unfolding as she agreed to follow him when he came for her that fateful night. A warrior stepping up to take destiny into her own hands. A woman - strong, beautiful, and full of power - holding him now.

Her desires, wishes, and fears knotted in a tangled jumble with his own.

The first Pilot of my beloved died in his arms.

Van froze, the memory rocking him back to reality.

No! He couldn't let her see that! Not that one!

His power instantly withdrew from her like a large drain. She gasped and shivered in his arms, the red visibly clearing from her eyes as she blinked at him in surprised.

"Van, what-"

"The-The Briefing…" he panted, his voice still not quite steady. His heart pounded hard in his chest. "We shouldn't keep them waiting."

"Oh - right."

Auburn hair tostled, hands wrapped around his neck, she glanced down at their position on his desk with a tight squeak leaving her throat and he backed away swiftly to let her jump back to the floor. A shocking cold spread from his chest as she gently unwove her vox from him - much kinder than how he'd pulled away from her. Mouth pressed into a tight line, cheeks flushing, the last of her dripped away from him. It felt incredibly empty without her power. His core trembled, demanding for her now that it'd had a good taste. He ignored the need, reaching up to rub the back of his neck awkwardly.

"So, um… that was…"

"I've never kissed anyone before," Hitomi confessed suddenly - and her expression twisted into an embarrassed grimace. Her right hand immediately fiddled with the edge of her cloak, shyly.

"Neither have I." He shot her a sheepish smile and her eyes widened.

"You haven't? Y-You're good at it."

"So are you," Van admitted, reaching for the fingers playing with her cloak. She instantly dropped the silky fabric as he raised her hand slowly to his lips. The look she gave him twisted his stomach, a brilliant sheen of joy brushing her gold-green eyes.

"I'll see you at the Briefing, Mistress Pilot," he whispered over her knuckles.

A cross of cute disappointment lit her features. "You don't want to go together?"

He shot his eyebrows up and he glanced down at his bare torso. She followed his eyes and pressed her lips together in a mischievous smile.

"Ah, yes. Your lack of clothing. Better go fix that before you shame the crown."

He snorted. "Considering Allen caught me in an even worse position a few minutes ago, I think the crown has thoroughly been humiliated with or without a shirt. But, for the sake of Modocca's fragile heart for propriety, I guess I'd better find a tunic at least."

"Think he'll tell anyone? Allen, I mean..." She looked nervous.

"He wouldn't dare!" Van laughed at her anxiousness. He pulled on her hand and she gasped as she stumbled into his chest. Tipping her chin up with a finger, there was only a light spark as his head bent and his mouth boldly brushed hers. The short breath of delight she released almost drove him right back - his core cracking lightly. He broke the kiss before it could reach her.

"As far as I'm concerned, they can talk all they want. I like you, Hitomi - a lot." Inwardly, Van couldn't help congratulating himself as she blushed scarlet. "I'm not one to keep secrets - considering I'm a king and all, it's nearly impossible. My life is sort of on display. But if you want to keep this between us, I understand."

"Maybe… possibly… I don't know." She bit her lip and he stared at it. "I need time to process."

His hand lifted to cradle her cheek. Law, she was beautiful - her green eyes blinking up at him in anticipation. The urge to kiss her again washed over him and he purred, "Can I see you later tonight? In the chapel?"

To his delight, she boldly rose up tiptoe to peck his lips. "Meet you there at twilight?"

He shot her a cheeky grin. "Ever suddenly wish you could control time?"

"With the volley of powers at our disposal, I'm sure we can figure it out," she laughed. "But for now, I have a Briefing I need to attend."

"Right. That." Van felt a drop of disappointment before a flash of an idea cropped up. "I guess I'd better leave through the window."

She frowned. "Through the window? You're not going to Transport? I was already planning on it since I kind of left Rutilus outside and it seems like the easiest way to-"

"Transport is dull." He cut her off with an eye roll. "Besides, you like my wings, right?"

"They're… okay." Her gaze drifting to the side stubbornly, but the breaking grin made his heart flutter.

"Don't play coy! You think they're pretty." Van tapped his head with a finger as she flushed. "Can't hide anymore, my lady. I know all your true feelings."

"You think I look good with dirt all over me, so what does that say about you?"

Van barked a laugh. "You'll think differently once you see how dirty I can get."

"Van Fanel, you-" Letting go to dodge her swinging hand, he danced away and spread his wings. She stopped short as he ruffled them at her with a wink over his shoulder.

"Oh, Law, I've created a monster!" she said dramatically, her arm flinging to her forehead in a swoon. "You are a terrible flirt, Van Fanel!"

"Only with you!"

"Don't be late, goose!" Hitomi called, her laugh following him as he dove out the window.

With a salute in midair, he gave her a small flip before soaring off to his tower.

His back was straight against his vibrant blue cushioned seat, his light eyes staring at the closed door down the long hall in a nervous anticipation as every single person talked excitedly in the throne room. Their voices echoed with cheers, claps of congratulations - even Modocca looked surprisingly docile in his chair, his lips less than a sneer.

"-Rutilus Flumen flew-"

"-no records of her power being used like that-"

"-did the Pilot go after she landed-?"

"-might actually stand a chance against the Zaibach's red melefs-"

"-won't know what's coming for them!-"

"-has disappeared as well. Did you find her, Lord Allen?" Medien called. A silence fell as squad legions, Vehotus, and Council all turned their eyes expectedly at him.

"I-I saw nothing!" he yelped in a strangled throat. Blue gaze tossing around the room, Allen cleared his throat and screwed on a nervous grin.

"A-hem, I wasn't able to locate her, no," he continued, "she must be on her way as we speak." At the weird looks - and impish grin from Gadeth - Allen just wanted to slink out of the room. As the other members in the room went back to their excited conversations, Allen accidentally caught the green man's glittering eyes peeking over at him, his thin face leaning down the line of Vehotus.

Allen stifled his groan and released a long sigh instead.

"Are you okay?" Millerna's concern drifted with a quiet whisper over Dryden - who casually sat back to let her glance at him worriedly.

"I'm normal, Millerna, and it's all completely fine, absolutely nothing happening, so don't worry about-"

"Oh - is that so?" Gadeth jumped from his chair, easing behind Allen's seat with the strut of a rooster. "My, my, you are so normal right now, Ally."

"Leave him alone, Gadeth," Millerna growled.

"I am leaving him alone. I'm just simply pointing out the man doth protest a little too much - especially considering what I saw from my tower."

"Which was?" She quirked an eyebrow.

A mist of joy spread on Gadeth's face. "T'was glorious sight of a winged dark-haired man in love flying his beloved over the turrets to the southeast side of the castle. Oi, Dry-Dry," the green man called, his jade vest riding up as he easily laced his hands behind his dark head, "remind me - who lives on the southeast side of the castle again?"

His long-haired accomplice pretended to think with a finger to the side of his lip. "Why, I do believe that is the winged dark-haired man in love's quarters, is it not?"

"And I remember dear Ally volunteering to scout that particular part of the castle-"

"And I remember him distinctly headed to the staircase of the royal study-"

"And I remember him hurrying in here with his face a delightfully gobsmacked red-"

Dryden nodded pleasantly. "Yes, it was quite red. One might, in fact, surmise he saw something he should not have seen-"

"I. Saw. Nothing." The blond hissed, but stiffened as Gadeth dropped his hands on his shoulders from behind the chair. He leaned in to the blond's ear.

"I believe you," he whispered with a deep foreboding lilt in his voice that suggested otherwise. "You always tell the truth, Allen. It's a trait I admire about you. 'Mister Never-Lies' says he saw nothing, then obviously I'm just making things up in my head and you're not sitting here about to piss your pants because you're keeping a nice piece of juicy gossip all to yourself that concerns our dear king and if you do say anything about it, he'll probably shoot a Mind Wave right up your-"

"Gadeth! Don't be crude!" Millerna sniffed disapprovingly before a thin sparkle of interest brushed in her light eyes. "Are… are you sure you didn't see anything, Allen? They both are awfully late to this Briefing. And if Gadeth says he saw them together… I mean..." She and Dryden caught eyes and they both leaned closer to him.

"You know something," she accused, and the long-haired man shot him a weird look - almost akin to triumph.

Traitor, Allen thought darkly.

"No." - was his sharp reply.

"But he does." Gadeth grinned maniacally, the glittering green in his eyes igniting. "They are late and he knows why-"

A blue Mind Wave pulsed from Allen's back, knocking a yelping Gadeth off his feet and onto the throne floor, painfully. The entire room fell silent as the green man coughed, the air having left his lungs in a rush.

"C-Ch-Cheater!" he choked. "C-Confess your sins, you heathen!"

"He's not going to drop this, Allen," Dryden said quietly, voices murmuring in confusion. "You know you gotta spill. For your sanity and everyone else's."

With dread sinking in his stomach, the unfolding grin on Gadeth's lips told Allen that Dryden was absolutely right.

This was only just the beginning.

This chapter was a long time coming and I have so many people to thank for knocking me back into gear and getting back to this uber fun and exciting story. How could I have left you alone for so long, Rutilus - my beloved brain-child? You are a thing of inspiration. And I'm so incredibly happy to be back here. Even if it has lost most of its followers, I don't care. This story is worth telling. And with that being said:

First: I must say thank you to my precious Kerapal Bubbles. You have been such an inspiration to me and are always there to listen to my thoughts/fantasties/sometimes delusions? You are just an - all around - fantastic person. I love you, Bubs. More than the most elegant of words can portray. You are a steady anchor - not letting me take myself too seriously. You beta'd this entire thing - was immediately on it as soon as I told you I was writing it. Thank you, precious Bubs. And I have to see you IRL again soon.

Second: Jaredin Snow - you know you have been such a wonderful friend to me. We are working on an independent writing project together and it's this crazy twisting story that made me realize that writing is not meant to boggle you down, but to free you. As a writer, I felt burdened by Rutilus and all the story lore I'd created. But, having those beautiful moments of just creative flow, I found all the joy and beauty that writing can bring. You are a priceless treasure, Snow. Thank you. Lux lives because of you. I haven't had so much fun writing in a long time

Third: My dear sister, Nainari. I love you, Nai. You are my cherished one and you have believed in Rutilus since the beginning. We may not talk as often as I want, but I hope you understand how much I love and appreciate every single time you've been there for me. I wrote this with you in mind, my dearest one. I hope you love it as much as I do.

And lastly: this chapter is dedicated to all of you. Not just those three specifically mentioned, but to those that have stuck with this story from the beginning, found this story through the years, or just clicked on it right now. I have the next chapter already in the works and I hope you understand my appreciation for your continued support. If not for each and every one of you, my lovely Hitomi and Van wouldn't have had their first kiss (one of many planned). If you have read my other stories, you know I always have something up my sleeve. And you just have to trust me, beloved readers. Trust me and always keep going - because, once you find your path, you see the people who have been there at your lowest. You find your treasured ones. And for me, it has been those that believe this story is worth a damn. And, you know what? Hell yeah, it's worth a damn! So, why not knock this out of the fanfiction world, am I right?

I will see you guys soon in the next chapter!

blue...