“The timing of this report is troubling,” the King says. “Is there something more to it, my lord?” “The humans have gone to the creatures they fear the most and offered them their blood? And all this at the time we get reports of some human-like beings causing death and destruction to the towns near our south-eastern border.” “My lord,” the queen says. “What do you mean by human-like beings?” “Our commander has received reports of human-like creatures with black eyes attacking two of the towns closest to the border we share with the humans. Apparently, these creatures have killed nearly everyone there and my people failed to kill a single attacker.” The queen widens her eyes and stares at the army commander. “It’s what the report said, your majesty.” he replies as little rivers flow freely down his face. Presently, she narrows her eyes as if peering into the depth of Gunther’s soul, searching for the smallest speck of a lie. Finding none, her face heats up with rage, but like th

“Marriage! To who?” “Who do you think?” “I wish you and Valark all the best.” “Ha.Ha. Very funny, my love.” Is this really happening? For a short moment my body forgets how to breathe. “Who proposed this plan? Was it your mother?” “Does it matter?” Yes it does. “Well… it….” My heart moves up to occupy the space where my voice originates from. Taking a few deep breaths, I try to regain my trail of thoughts only to abandon them in favour of a new one. “Are you accepting this plan?” “Are you against it?” Will you please, just answer my questions? “I would like to hear your thoughts on this matter.” “My thoughts aren’t important, Prince Deven.” Prince Deven! I’d rather drown in the sea than hear her say my name like that. “Your thoughts are important to me, A’el.” I take her hands in mine and I can feel her trembling. She tries to free herself but I hold on to her. I don’t want to marry her, but I don’t want to lose a close companion either. “Please drop the royal act and jus

********** “Prince Deven,” one of my servants calls with his head sticking from the other side of my bedroom door. “Yes?” “Prince Leon’s envoy has arrived.” “Thank you,” I reply as I pull my cloak from my bedside and put on my boots. Perhaps I can get some information beforehand about this blood treaty. I step outside and see the envoy coming up from the gate like a giant serpent. Not a single horseman or carriage is out of line as it moves up the road. Bending its head, it turns and moves on past the main castle door and only stops once the last carriage is in front of us. One of the servants opens the door and a human lady with a lean figure steps out and moves aside. I find her outfit to be rather amusing. Leather pants, a shirt, and light leather armour. I take note of a knife hidden in her left boot. Leon comes out after her. His dark cloak droops around his shoulders just like his black hair. If someone were to take a quick glance at him, they would think that his cloak and

“Leon, it’s so wonderful to see you again,” A’el says. “It’s been too long, my dear A’el,” Leon says as they embrace each other. “And who is this lovely creature by your side?” “Be nice to her, A’el, she’s a friend. Her name is Monica Flaughan.” Monica’s appearance is nothing short of breathtaking. Seeing her with Leon makes me feel like these two creatures of Kelor were meant for each other. “It’s an honour to meet you, Princess,” Monica says as she makes a graceful curtsy. “Oh, my dear, it’s a pleasure to meet you. I wasn’t aware that Leon had friends other than Deven and I. Leon, where have you been hiding her?” Leon goes on to tell the story of how he went to Monica’s town and how he chose her for her prowess with a spear and knowledge of Kelor’s creatures, all the while, never taking his eyes off Monica. Monica on the other hand seems to be aware of it but doesn’t blush or give away any of her emotions apart from the appropriate smile and gentle gaze. Leon goes on to tell t

The winged group lands next to the burial site. I’m not sure if it is a coincidence or a show of respect, but I’m grateful nonetheless. After the attack we had last night, we’re in no condition to fight but we would if someone or something insulted us by standing on the graves of our loved ones. One of the armed winged-men begins to draw his sword but is immediately stopped by the younger of the two winged-women with rainbow-like sparks. She places a hand over his and then steps forward from the group. I am surprised by the man’s actions and turn to look at Ragnar. I’m even more surprised to see his axe in his free hand. I didn’t even hear him unsheathe it. I look at my tribe and notice Tumak, and the rest of the tribe, are also armed. The events of the previous night have set them on edge but we don’t need another day of bloodshed. I give them the signal to lower their weapons. They hesitate at first, but eventually Ragnar obeys my command and so do the others. As usual, Tumak is t