Mesoasteria

“William?”

“Hm?” William looks to Charles who waves at him from across the room.

“Are you ok?”

“I am, I am. Sorry, could you repeat that, general Arnold.”

“Yes sir. We believe the demons will unite and invade our lands within the year. It may be best that we show an act of strength to prevent developments.”

“You want us to scare them into not wanting to fight? Is that not why they fought for 50 years?”

“We… we are out of options.”

William looks at the room. The assembly of generals is never a joyous one but today’s meeting has crushing tension.

A single decision will mark the trajectory of the kingdom’s future, either road includes war. William’s desperate efforts have failed; his kingdom will not stand for threats either.

“I need a different perspective. I will give my decision within the week. Meeting adjourned.”

“Yes sir!”

William looks towards Avilasa. Someone with no bias to either side. But William also visits for peace of mind, that which he can only find with her.

“I thought I finally got rid of you. Yet even a year after revealing everything to you there is no end to your greed.” Avilasa greets William at the gate to her cottage. “What’s this?”

“I had it brought from a distant land in the north.” William hands Avilasa a white Hibiscus.

“It’s beautiful. Thank you.”

William watches as Avilasa handles the gift with the care of mother and her child. Her love for flowers extends far beyond the responsibility left by her parents, it is a love and passion grown since her youth.

“I hope you’re not expecting a reward.”

“Laying eyes on you is enough.”

Avilasa turns to hide her blush. “Have you been busy? I haven’t you seen you in two months.”

As she places the flower in sunshine, she returns her gaze to William. It’s rare to see William with such a serious expression, but such is the surprise that awaits her. In the blink of an eye however, his expression returns to his cheerful normalcy.

“Did you miss me?”

“Oh please. The sudden peace made me realize what an annoying runt you are.”

“Then you believe life needs some annoyance?”

“I prefer it to be exciting, yes.”

“Then how about we go on a date.”

Avilasa laughs. “You misinterpret. You should only go out with a woman you care for.”

“Then we leave in an hour.”

“William. If you are caught with me then it will be the end of all your efforts. Your very kingdom will disown you.”

“Do you believe I have built such a weak kingdom?”

“I didn’t mean it that way.”

“I joke. I have no fear of being seen with a beautiful woman.”

Avilasa groans. She has no hope against William. “Very well.”

“You have a fine horse.”

Avilasa and William head for their date by horseback. They leave north of her cottage past the great hills that split the land of human and demon, and ride along the river crossing through William’s kingdom.

“He has been with me for many battles. Age is now his greatest enemy.”

“Is it not the custom to kill off an aging horse?”

“Some see it as mercy. But I don’t have the heart to do it. I will simply become stronger to make up for his loss of strength.”

Avilasa pinches William’s back. “You have the mind of a child.”

William laughs. “My mother often said the same. We… Reinhardt stop.”

The group stops just before reaching a recent battlefield. Blood stains the earth, the lack of life a reminder proof of great battles.

“I’m sorry. I can take another route.”

“It is ok. I have no connection to demon or human.”

“I see. Very well. Forward.”

As they pass through the battlefield, Avilasa looks around. The barren land they pass through was once a land of natural life.

“May I ask you a question?” William asked.

“It’s rare for you to hold your tongue.”

“I don’t want to ruin our date.”

Avilasa punches William’s back. “It’s an outing. And you are free to ask.”

“Are the rumors of demon blood making fields of flowers grow true? As much as I hate to admit, I have painted many fields in their blood. Yet, they all remain barren.”

“They are. My gardens are proof. At first it was only a small garden in the back but the rest of the soil was painted in her blood after they were killed for being found together.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. You are the only one who knows this. I am grateful to you.”

“Even a detestable king has merit then.”

“Does a kind one have some as well?”

“I hope so.”

Avilasa laughs as they arrive at their location. “Mesoasteria.”

Mesoasteria, a group of hills renowned for their clarity of stars at night. The area, surrounded by forest, has remained peaceful and is known to flourish love.

“The land between the stars. I thought we could have a picnic here.”

“You are an impressive romantic, William. Are you seeking a queen?”

“If I am fortunate enough to win her favor.”

“I see. I pray for your success, but some woman can never be convinced.”

“Chasing impossible goals is a hobby of mine.”

“Gosh, winning is impossible against you. Let’s eat.”

Avilasa helps spread the blanket before eating.

“This is delicious! You eat like this every day?”

“Well, most days. I’m glad you enjoy it.”

“Hmph, don’t think of me as a glutton.”

“I like women with an appetite.”

“Then you’re in luck. But you have much to do before gaining my favor young man.”

“I like to think I’m making good progress.”

“I… will not disagree.”

After finishing their meals, the two stare into the star filled sky.

“They’re brighter here than at home.” Avilasa said. “Do you come here often?”

“I do, it helps to clear the mind. Being amongst the stars is peaceful. At times even worries go away.”

“Amongst the stars?”

Before William responds, Avilasa finds herself floating in space. The stars, once distant, are now within floating distance. Her body is weightless and, as William said, she feels at ease.

“This is amazing!” Avilasa says as she spins and giggles amongst the stars in their vicinity.

William watches as Avilasa floats from one star to the next. She removed her robe, allowing herself to be free and without the worry of being discovered. Her smile, her voice, her very existence more entrancing than the stars within reach.

“I thought it was just a fairy tale. My mother told me that if you reach for star and grab it, you will gain that which you wish for most. Will you try?” Avilasa asked.

“Why not?” William floats around, looking for a star that will accept him. “Hmm, of all the stars here, there is only one I wish to reach for.” William circles around Avilasa before reaching out to her. “Am I worthy?”

Avilasa blushes. “D-do you believe I would ever fall for a detestable king?”

“Maybe if he is handsome enough.”

Avilasa sighs as she floats towards William. “His looks mean nothing. But his actions have told me enough.” She kisses William but pulls away after a second. “I hope you understand that this means.”

“Of course, I want nothing more.”

Avilasa rests her head on William’s chest as they make their way home.

“William, is everything ok?”

“Conflict has returned. I may not be able to visit as often I’d like. Would you like to come live in the castle?”

“I’d love to, but it’s not time yet. I believe the time will come however. I believe you will be the one to bring that time forth.”

“You have too much confidence in me.”

“I disagree. You have proven yourself many times. The last war was years ago. I hope you will end this conflict peacefully as well.”

“Will I be rewarded?”

“How detestable. Very well, when you succeed, I’ll allow you to stay the night and I’ll pamper you.”

“Then it shall be done.”

“I’m sure it will.”