Title: When I Talk To You
Author: Lady of the Ink
Pairing: V/H, M/C
Category: Suspense/Romance, with some good angst thrown in for flavor.
Disclaimer: I don't own Escaflowne, but you knew that. I hope. But I do own this story and all the plot twists it contains.

Epilogue
About the Future

Hitomi straightened from her task, surveying the results of her handiwork with satisfaction. All the drapes had been pulled open and tied, letting in a brilliant wash of late morning sunlight. Most of the furniture had been moved to another room, and the pieces that remained had been positioned in short rows. She had placed vases around the room, though they were all empty for the moment. She was sure they'd look wonderful once the flowers a maid was collecting were arranged within them.

Wiping her dusty hands on the apron tied around her waist, Hitomi gave the room a final once over. Her critical eye found no problems. Everything looked perfect, as it should for a day as important as this one was. Dropping into a chair for a moment of rest, she let her mind drift over the changes the past six years had brought.

Fanelia had been rebuilt with the exception of the old castle. Plans for a new one were still being deliberated. Half the council wanted it to be the same as it had been before Zaibach's attack, as a memorial to the old way of life that had been lost. But the other half argued that to truly move into the future, they should build something new, a symbol of the country's rebirth. And so it went on, and would go on until a compromise was reached.

Hitomi was in no hurry to see it done. Once it was completed, Van would be expected to move there, and of course, she would go with him. Maybe in awhile it would be nice to have more space, especially given the impending circumstances. But for now, she was happy in the townhouse that had been their home.

'It isn't as though the house is the same as when I arrived,' she mused. 'That renovation two years ago really helped this place look great. The extra bedrooms and bigger dining room solved the problems we'd been having, and this study looks wonderful!'

She paid closer attention to the room where she sat, mentally cataloguing all the changes. The biggest difference was the new measurements. Now at almost twice the size it had been, it was a bright and airy place to work. The large windows made it even more comfortable, along with the wood paneling on the walls. Though she loved its new look, the former incarnation would always remain firmly in her memory as the setting of one of the greatest moments of her life.

A smile danced across her features as she remembered that afternoon that seemed to have happened ages ago, and yet was as fresh in her mind as though it had been just yesterday. How she had felt, warmly wrapped in Van's arms, while she told him of her intention to stay, if he didn't mind.

"Mind?" he had answered in a stunned voice. "It's what I've wanted for a long time!" A startled blush stained his cheeks as he realized what he had just admitted. Hitomi had smiled softly, reaching up to brush a hand across his cheek. Though she had known in her heart that he returned her feelings, it was still a special thing to hear the words. Knowing that Van had a hard time expressing his emotions, she also knew it might be awhile before it happened again.

That was one thing he had gotten better at, Hitomi acknowledged as she felt someone walk up behind her. An arm snaked around her shoulders at the same time as a warm kiss landed on her cheek.

"It's time," Van murmured, his lips close to her ear. Hitomi nodded, but remained unmoving. She wanted to savor this last moment of peace before everything turned hectic. There was still a long list of things that needed to be done, and very little time to do them. Once her parents and Corey arrived, there would be even more to accomplish.

"Merle?" she questioned softly.

"With the seamstress, seeing to the final alterations of the dresses. She said to go on without her." Apparently realizing that Hitomi wasn't planning on rising just yet, he moved to stand in front of her. Gently catching both her wrists, he pulled her to her feet, answering her groan of irritation with a chuckle. "You know that you told your parents you'd meet them when they got here. And unless you plan on running, we have to go now."

Letting her head drop onto his shoulder, Hitomi sighed. "My work here is never done. Lead on, your highness." They walked down the hall, Van's arm still about her shoulders. Stepping out the front door, Hitomi raised her eyes to the sky. It was bright and clear, with nothing to block her sight. Which was a very good thing, she thought to herself. While the blue light was a fast and effortless way to travel, its unpredictable landing zones remained something of an annoyance.

The thick grass was a springy cushion beneath their feet as they made their way off the main path. Their final destination was a hill that afforded a view for a good distance in all directions. It was the perfect place to await her family's arrival. She stood there, Van's arms around her, as her eyes kept watch. As long moments passed with no sign of them, however, her mind began to drift over her to do list.

Decorations: check. Since it had been decided to keep everything simple, it had taken little time to add the few touches of ornamentation. Flowers: check. By now they would have arrived and been placed in their vases. Dresses: check. The last fitting had gone well, and Merle was handling anything else that needed changed. Food: check. The little used cook was so excited about her moment of glory, she'd been working for days on the feast.

Hitomi felt Van move, and refocused on her surroundings just in time to catch the tail end of the column she'd been waiting for. A smile curved her lips as excitement thrummed through her. Her family was here.

Stepping forward, she hurried towards them. Laughter bubbled from her lips as she hugged her mother, then her father. Turning to Corey, she paused for a moment to really look at him. His eyes were sparkling and his cheeks were flushed. There was a smile on his lips that didn't seem to want to go away. Their gazes locked, and a very clear message passed between them.

Pulling him into her arms, Hitomi hugged him tightly. In voice that was just for him, she whispered, "Welcome home, little brother." He hugged her back, then pulled away. Shoving his hair off his forehead with an impatient hand, he looked around the clearing. His brow furrowed when he didn't find what, or rather who, he was looking for. He looked at Hitomi with a question on his face. At her affected air of ignorance, he mock-glowered at her. Making a point of turning to her mother, Hitomi couldn't stop her smile at Corey's sigh of exasperation.

Oh yes, she'd missed having her brother around.

Linking her left arm through her mother's and her right am through her father's, she started back toward town, leaving Van and Corey to trail along behind. There was the faint sound of their conversation, and Hitomi knew her brother was grilling Van for the answer to his question. Not that it would do him any good, she added with a mental chuckle. She watched as her parents looked around, and remembered what her first impression of this land had been. There was the same look of wonder on their faces that she was sure she had worn, an appreciation of the natural beauty and sense of peace.

Before long, they were back at the house. Deftly assigning duties, Hitomi sent Van to show Corey and her father what changes he had orchestrated in the town itself. This served a quadruple purpose. It kept Corey out of her hair, gave Van and her dad time to get acquainted, and would be the start of the townspeople seeing her parents around town. The fourth thing it accomplished was giving her some alone time with her mom.

Leading the older woman to the parlor, Hitomi waited until she was comfortably settled in a chair. Tilting her head to the side, she asked softly, "So?"

Mrs. Kanzaki sighed a little, and Hitomi tensed. What if after all the time she'd spent convincing her parents they'd love it here, they hated it on sight? Would she be able to handle them leaving so soon, and just when she needed them the most?

"I think I see why this place was, is so important to you. "

Hitomi's head snapped around to look at her mother, amazement and confusion flowing through her. "What?!"

Mrs. Kanzaki smiled at her reaction. Reaching out, she took one of her daughter's hands in her own. "I never thought this place was somewhere awful; I just didn't want to like it because I knew it would take you away from me." When Hitomi would have interrupted, she was stopped by her mother's raised hand. "Now, wait just a moment. I'm not finished yet. I didn't want to think of this place as real, because then the threat of losing you and Corey would be real.

"But Gaea is where you belong, and I know that. It's in your blood; it's become a part of you. And I'm glad you have a home that is so close to your heart. And I'm even more glad that you're willing to share it with me, after all I did to keep you from it."

"Mom," Hitomi whispered.

"I know that you know I had the best of intentions, so I'm not trying to defend myself. I'm just saying thank you, for being the kind of person who could have forgiven for that. You make me so proud, and I'm glad you found the place where you belong."

Hitomi squeezed the hand she still held as tears misted her eyes. She had always known her mother would come to her side of things, but she'd never expected this kind of reaction. Then again, she had never expected her parents to agree to come and live on Gaea, either. When she'd lobbied for it in the beginning, it was half-hearted, not because she didn't want them there, but because she knew they probably wouldn't want to come. So when they'd explained that their lives were on Earth, she had given in gracefully, not wanting to push.

But as the day when Corey would finish school and come to Gaea permanently, Hitomi had been surprised at some of their questions. What was the weather like? The people? How would Van feel about visits and such? It soon became clear that they might have changed their minds.

A talk with Corey told Hitomi that he was sure they were interested in Gaea, but hesitant to bring it up. "It's like this, sis. They fought so hard to keep us away from it, going there would be sort of hypocritical. But I think if we give them enough encouragement, subtly, of course, they'd be willing to think it over. I mean, a lot of people retire to a far off place. Not that far off, but hey, details. It could be done, if they wanted it to happen."

And so it had. The plans had been set in motion months ago, and now were complete. To everyone back on earth, the Kanzaki's had simply retired to a place in the country to be closer to their children. It would be a change, but one they assured Hitomi and Corey that they were up for.

Smiling brightly at her mother, Hitomi rose to her feet. "Now that that's taken care of and I can stop worrying, I think it's time for us to see Merle."

Mrs. Kanzaki mirrored her daughter's action. "I agree." Looking at the angle of the light coming through the windows, she gave a start of surprise. "It's almost time, isn't it?"

Hitomi nodded. "It seemed to take forever for this day to come, but now time's just flying by. Now come on, we'd better get moving. And don't worry about Corey and dad. Van will have them back in plenty of time." Talking about the afternoon's plans, mother and daughter made their way up the stairs to the room where Merle was waiting with the dresses.

Merle was sitting by the window with her eyes closed, just focusing on the warmth of the sun hitting her skin. There was no reason for her to be nervous. Just because Corey and his parents had arrived, that didn't mean she needed to get all tense. A deep breath, and she felt calmer. She focused on the people she had caught a glimpse of through the window.

Mr. And Mrs. Kanzaki looked exactly like the pictures Hitomi had showed her of them. But the way they all walked together showed their closeness as a family. Merle supposed it was no surprise that they would choose to be near their children, when all was said and done. They seemed like the kind of people who would be kind and caring, so she wasn't worried about meeting them. The Kanzaki brother and sister spoke of them so often, she thought she had a pretty good idea of what to expect.

Corey, on the other hand, seemed to change every time she saw him, even if he had only been away for a month. First there was a growth spurt, bringing him to tower over her by a good six or seven inches. For a while he'd been lanky, all knees and elbows. But his next visit showed that he had filled out, making him seem incredibly solid. While he was away that time, he must have spent a good bit of time outdoors. His return showed off a deep tan and golden streaks through his hair that still remained.

And now that hair was longer, dipping into his face all the time. She didn't mind, though. He had picked up the habit of tipping his head to the side so it would move, making him look like he was always curious about something. She found the unconscious gesture incredibly endearing. But then again, there wasn't much about him that she didn't like.

A sound at the door had her straightening and turning in her seat. She relaxed slightly when Hitomi's head popped around the corner. A bright smile lit the older girl's face as she stepped into the room.

"Hey, Merle!"

Merle couldn't help but brighten at the enthusiasm in her friend's voice. She had a feeling Hitomi had guessed at her nervousness, and was trying to put her at ease. Working up a wan smile, she got to her feet just as Hitomi's mother stepped into the room. There was a moment of silence, and Merle felt some of her tension return.

It drained right out of her as Mrs. Kanzaki crossed the room, taking her hands. "It's so good to see you, Merle." Her smile was bright and friendly, with no hint of falseness. Returning the gesture, Merle knew she was going to like this woman.

A sound from below sent Hitomi darting to the window to sneak a look. A moment's observation had her turning back to the other women, an animated look on her face. "The boys are back," she sang out.

Mrs. Kanzaki laughed softly at the idea of her husband being referred to as a boy. "Then I guess that's our signal to start getting ready. Now, where are these dresses?"

As the other two started getting things together, Merle remained rooted to the spot. It was only a matter of minutes now before she would face Corey. Butterflies began swarming in her stomach and her hands felt clammy. She swallowed hard.

How was she supposed to make it through this afternoon?

Corey stood at the front of the study, wearing a new suit. Every few seconds he tugged at the tie, which seemed a little tight. Rocking back on his heels, he thrust his hands into his pockets, then immediately pulled them out again. He forced himself to stand still. He cracked his knuckles, then twisted to look at the stairs.

Shouldn't they be ready by now?

He took a deep breath, then almost choked on it as his mother came into view. She smiled, and then gave a thumbs up. Continuing down the stairs, she came to stand beside his father. He straightened, then looked at Van, who stood beside him. The young king seemed to be the epitome of calmness. Corey decided he wanted to hit him. Didn't he know he was supposed be nervous?

Hitomi began her walk down the stairs, wearing a simply styled, pastel green dress. It had a curved neckline edged in emerald green ribbon, and lace of the same shade around the knee length hem. Her hair had been fluffed up, and was held in place with two combs, one on either side. A soft smile played about her lips, and her cheeks were flushed, giving her an almost angelic appearance.

Corey heard Van sigh beside him, but his gaze was riveted on the person who followed his sister. The dress was a soft shade somewhere between pink and orange. It's skirt fell straight from the high waist, landing halfway down her calf. There were no other decorations, and none were needed. Her pink curls had been secured on top of her head, then allowed to cascade down again. There was a glint from the necklace fastened at her throat as sunlight caught the simple silver locket.

Corey felt his heart skip a beat as Merle walked slowly towards him. Catching her eyes, he saw his emotions reflected there. A little worry and fear, a lot of nervousness, some disbelief, but most of all, there was happiness. As she came to his side, he clasped her hand in his, giving it a gentle squeeze. She returned the gesture, offering a smile that only wobbled a little.

From somewhere beside him, he heard Van begin the words that would bind them together, finishing what had begun years ago on a slow walk through a forest. Looking into Merle's blue eyes, he knew she was thinking the same thoughts.

"Why are you doing this?" she asked, uncertainty threading her voice.

"Doing what?"

"Being so nice. Taking care of me. I don't understand . . ."

"Don't you?" He paused, bringing her to a halt along with him. When he saw her nervousness, he decided to be as honest as he could. "I don't know what it is, but I know there's something between us. Maybe it's because Hitomi told me so much about you. Or maybe it's just because I've never met anyone like you. I'm not sure. But I have a feeling that there's the chance for something here. And I don't want to pass up on what could be the greatest thing to ever happen to me . . ."

A spark of humor lit Merle's eyes, and Corey knew she was remembering her reaction to his brazen words.

"Y . . .You're crazy! You shouldn't say things like that; we just met yesterday! That's hardly any time . . ." she spluttered. Her eyes widened as he drew a finger down her cheek. Her breath stuttered, then stopped completely at his next softly spoken declaration.

"It's enough."

Corey felt a tight feeling swell in his chest as the ceremony drew to a close. Who would have thought he'd have all this? A loving family together in a place that had waited for them to make it their home, and the one person that he wanted to share it all with. What more could he ask for?

Leaning forward, his lips met hers, a promise given that this was forever.

From across the room, Hitomi watched her little brother dance with her new sister. She sighed, relaxing against Van's chest. "Do you think they even remember that we're here?" she asked.

A chuckle vibrated against her back. "I doubt it." His arms tightened around her waist. "I know that at our wedding, all I saw was you. You're still all I see."

"That wouldn't be a comment on my weight, now would it, Fanel?" she asked tartly, knowing it wasn't. His hands came to rest on the swell of her stomach, gently shaping it. Beneath his touch lay his heir, but more importantly, a part of the love he shared with Hitomi, forever captured in their child.

"I wouldn't dream of it. All I meant was . . . When you're in a room, you're all I see. You . . . Become my everything," he explained hesitantly.

Turning in his arms, Hitomi placed a kiss on his lips. "I know," she told him tenderly. Wrapping her arms around his waist, she laid her head on his shoulder. Sure, actions could express a lot, but sometimes, you just had to hear the words.

The End

Thanks:

A moment to thank anyone who has ever reviewed this fic. In order of appearance: NeoStar22, silver sea star, StarSapphireZ, Jennie, AngelsExist, Cous-cous, dancegoddess, R.T.A. Wings, Twin Star of Suzaku, Mullet-Revolution/ MaboroshiTsuki, R.D., Serena B., saski, WezL, Myra, SabineballZ, Raye-Rei, link no miko, sakura, Kriyn Drake, Waku-chan, Qwi-Xux, Kawaii Kokkei Tsuita no Neko, youjibaracuda, Hope Orr, GAMEACE, MysticalDreamer, Orestes, Nekochan614, & starhealer. You guys are so great! I'm not kidding when I say your reviews always made my day. Thank you! Special thanks to StarSapphireZ for hosting my work on her site.

Till next time, bye!