Shadows Of Desire

Note* Unkaa is a derogatory term for a member of the unseelie court.

Thaden grimaced when he entered the great hall. Never in all his years had he witnessed a room so dark and drab. Every window was covered with thick, light blocking drapes. Even the double doors that lead out and onto the veranda were covered. The candles that lined the walls and hung overhead weren’t enough to give them adequate light though, he assumed that Vampires didn’t need the light. They could see perfectly well in the dark. The others, however, were not as adept in the darkness.

“Can we get more light in here?” Thaden announced as he entered the room. It wasn’t a question really and the tone of his voice let the servants know this. “Those of us who aren’t nocturnal will go blind in this darkness.”

“Speak for yourself, Prince.” Kenze, a dark Elf from Thorn keep grumbled as he made his way to the table in the center of the room. “I can see perfectly fine in the dark.”

“That doesn’t surprise me.” Jalgrith laughed as he trailed in behind. He was a Dwarf warrior hailing from Cragpoint. “Yer practically a vamp as it is.” Both had joined up with the Fae army though why, Thaden didn’t know. Dark Elves and Dwarfs weren’t exactly enemies but they certainly weren’t on friendly terms. Thaden just hoped they could get along well enough to conclude the conference they had all assembled for. Honestly, Thaden would have preferred to wait until Rowan was found before discussing anything but he was out voted in the matter.

Kenze turned and glared at the Dwarf. “Jalgrith, you should learn to keep your opinions to yourself. Your beard has more tangles than your thoughts.”

“At least my beard doesn’t hide a face that could scare an ogre.” Jalgrith let go with a loud belly laugh, obviously pleased with his quip.

“No.” Kenze smirked. “You have a face only a mother could love. If she had poor eyesight and bad taste in offspring.”

“If the two of you are done...” Riona entered the room, pushing Jalgrith out of her way as she walked to the table where the others had already seated themselves. “We have more important things to do than listen to the two of you bicker.”

Riona took a seat next to Tomag who had the unfortunate honor of sitting next to the brooding Kenze. Jalgrith sat near the end of the table between Nasir and Connor, the Lycan Alpha of the northern packs. Caffrey sat at Thaden’s left with Thaden at the head of the table, Tomag to his right. Lierin sat at the end opposite to Thaden, Nasir to his left, and Greagor to his right. Dalyor, one of Riona’s warriors, sat next to Nasir at the end of the table and closest to the double doors leading into the hall.

Thaden was surprised that Dalyor didn’t insist on sitting next to Riona but when he saw the way that Dalyor and Nasir were looking at each other, it suddenly all made sense. Ever since they had first met in the court yard outside the Palace they hadn’t been able to take their eyes off of each other. Thaden was glad for his friend. The tension between Nasir and Lierin had begun to earn them questioning stares from the rest of the men. Thaden couldn’t understand the contention until Lierin explained to Thaden that after he’d left, Lierin had found his mate. An Elven woman named Thessalia.

She had been visiting from Fairhollow with her family and apparently it had been love at first site. Lierin proposed immediately and their wedding was scheduled for early spring. Nasir had not taken the news well. It had come as no shock to Thaden that Nasir had harbored feelings for Lierin. He’d suspected as much. Nasir had been his friend since childhood. They had grown up together, played together, and even trained together. He had noticed almost at once when Nasir began to see Lierin as something more than his Prince and best friends older brother. What did surprise Thaden was that Lierin had felt the same way. For the past five years the two had been involved in a secret love affair that ended when Lierin met his mate.

Naturally Nasir was heart broken. Lierin tried to explain to him that he had no control over who his mate would be. The Gods had chosen her for him and Lierin could not deny the affection he felt towards her. He never wanted to hurt Nasir, obviously, but he wasn’t going to reject his mate for him either. To do so would not have been fair to any of them. Nasir tried to be happy for Lierin but over the weeks his resentment grew, causing a rift to form between them. Nasir didn’t believe in fated mates. Even though both Thaden and now Lierin had found theirs. Nasir still thought it was all silly romantic fancy. That was, until he met Dalyor. When their eyes met, everything changed. They had each found their other half.

Looking at them now, Thaden wondered if they were going to be much use during the conference and he considered sending them off. It was clear to all that the welfare of Basmorte and her people were the furthest thing from their minds. Not that he could blame them. If Rowan had been there, with him, standing in the great hall facilitating this meeting was the last place he would want to be.

Even now, among the others gathered together to discuss the whereabouts of Caroline and the future of Basmorte, all Thaden could think of was Rowan. Where was he? Was he safe? He was still alive. Thaden knew that without a doubt. He could feel him through their mate bond but it was strained and unclear. It was like he was close by but not. There was a veil between then and one that Thaden did not know how to penetrate. He only hoped that Rowan could feel him too, feel how worried he was. How lost and alone he felt and eventually come back to him.

Two servant girls entered the hall bringing more candles. The flickering light barely cut through the inky blackness but at least it was enough that he could now see the faces of those seated around him. He thanked the girls who then bowed before hurrying out of the room. Looking around the room, Thaden was at a loss of how to begin. He’d never had to hold the attention of a room this way. Lierin had always been the diplomat. He was much more suited to such things. Were they home, in Rosegate, Thaden would have stepped back and allowed Lierin to handle matters on his own but Basmorte was Thaden’s responsibility now. At least until Rowan returned.

He began by going around the table introducing everyone. Most were already acquainted. Only those representing the Fae were unfamiliar. At least to everyone else. The dark Elf and the Dwarf seemed to be acquainted with each other even prior to joining with the Elven army. Thaden assumed they knew each other from the countless skirmishes that the dark Elves and the Dwarfs have had over the years. Nothing that they fought about was of any consequence really. They could find fault with nearly anything. One encroaching too far onto the others land. One accusing another of stealing a chicken, or even getting upset over a look that was felt to be offensive. The truth of the matter was, they both loved to fight and would literally fight over anything.

With the introductions out of the way, they could finally discuss what they had all come for. Knowing the fate of Basmorte and the former Queen.

“Have we learned anything new regarding Lady Caroline?” Thaden refused to use the title of Queen when referring to her any longer. With Desmond dead and Rowan, the heir apparent, yet to take the throne Caroline was, technically, still Queen. However, her decision to flee rather than face trial had forfeited any claim she once had on the throne as far as Thaden was concerned.

“I’ve had my men search the castle.” Caffrey spoke up, answering Thaden’s question. “The Elves have scoured the forest for both Caroline and Prince Rowan. So far, there is no sign of either. It’s as though they had just vanished.”

“Caroline must be hidden near-by.” It was Greagor who spoke now. “She wouldn’t risk traveling before nightfall.”

“She’s been aided by Agren in the past. Is it possible that the witch is hiding her now?” Caffrey asked.

Thaden sighed and rubbed at his temples. “Anything is possible at this point.” He said.

“And what of Prince Rowan?” Greagor looked at Thaden, his eyes full of concern. “Does anyone have any idea of where he could be or what has happened to him?”

Thaden closed his eyes. His head was pounding from the stress of the situation. He had no idea where Rowan was but the one thing he did know was that he should be out there, looking for him, not sitting around talking about what ifs. “Is it possible that he could have been taken during the fight with the Lycans? That was the last time anyone saw him and no one really knows what happened while you were all unconscious.”

“We were knocked out as well.” Connor growled, taking offense that it would even be suggested that the Lycans had anything to do with Rowan’s disappearance. The Lycans hadn’t originally been invited to the conference but Connor had showed up with a small group of warriors from his pack and asked to speak with the leader of the Elven army. His fear was that the Vampires would retaliate against the Lycans for the attack. Connor appeared as confused as the rest of them over what had happened and even somewhat shocked to learn that Thaden had taken control of the city.

When Connor was first questioned about Rowan he didn’t really even know who he was. He knew of course that Desmond had an omega child but the boy had been nearly forgotten about. Connor did recall meeting Rowan when he and the bog giant were attempting to cross into Rosegate. He swore that day was the first and last time he had seen the boy. Of course Connor had seen Rowan the night of the attack but he had very little, if any, memory of that night.

“My pack and I woke up in the forest, confused and disoriented. We’re still trying to piece together everything that had happened but I know that your Prince is not with the pack. I share a mental link with my pack mates. I would know if any were trying to hide him. We are victims in this as much as the rest of you so don’t go blaming us just because you can’t keep hold of your little Prince!”

“Calm down. Connor. No one is blaming you for anything. Thaden is only trying to eliminate all possibilities so we can get to the truth about what happened.” Lierin did his best to defuse the situation before it got out of hand.

Connor huffed, leaning back in his chair, he crossed his arms over his chest as he glared daggers at Thaden. “Just seems like every time your brother loses a lover he points the finger at me.”

Thaden was on his feet in and instant, the pounding in his head was only getting worse and Connor wasn’t helping any to ease the stress that Thaden was already under. “Maybe I wouldn’t point a finger at you if you’d learn to keep to your own territory, dog!”

Connor sneered at Thaden and growled. “I already told you that we were not at fault here. That witch of a Queen did this! Or, are you referring to Nadine?” The room stilled at the mention of Connor’s mate and Thaden’s former fiance. Connor smirked. The animosity between them had always peaked when discussing Nadine though now, the jab at Thaden’s ego didn’t have the effect that Connor had expected, or wanted.

“You and your mate are of no concern to me, Connor. My only concern is the whereabouts of my mate and seeing him safely home. Surly you can understand. Would you be any less suspicious if it were your mate who vanished after an unprovoked attack?”

Connor’s features softened as the gravity of Thaden’s words sunk in. “No.” He conceded. “In fact, I’d interrogate every man, woman, and child in the city until I found her.”

“Interrogate.” Jalgrith snorted into the mug of ale he’d been nursing ever since the meeting began.

“Something you care to add, Dwarf?” Connor turned to Jalgrith and sneered.

“Please, I just find it hilarious that you consider ripping someone to shreds as interrogation. I mean, most would find it beneficial to question a suspect before you kill them but, to each their own.” He chuckled to himself as he took another, large, gulp of his ale.

“Though I am loathed to admit it, the Dwarf has a point.” Kenze leaned across the table and locked eyes with Thaden. “Wolves aren’t known for their mercy, or their honesty. They probably have your Prince locked in a cage somewhere beaten and half alive.”

Connor narrowed his eyes as he stared at Kenze. The dark Elf, his sharp features etched with accusation, faced the Alpha. He raised an eyebrow arrogantly as he tried to provoke the wolf into challenging him.

“How dare you.” Connor spat. The undertones of a beastly growl rumbled through his chest. “Your accusations are baseless, unkaa! On my honor, I have nothing to do with the Vampire’s disappearance. It’s preposterous to even think so!”

“On your honor? Since when do animals have honor? You’re all mindless beasts with no concept of loyalty or civility.” Kenze hissed, unyielding in his stance.

Thaden’s fists clenched at his sides, his concern for Rowan turned to outrage at Kenze’s assumption. “Do not speak as though Rowan’s fate has already sealed. The only thing that keeps me going is the hope that he is still out there and will be found safe, and alive!”

“Thaden.” Tomag placed a hand on Thaden’s forearm, attempting to calm him.

“Enough, all of you.” Lierin stood, addressing the group. Thaden’s emotions were raw and Lierin could see his brother unraveling before his eyes. As much as Lierin wanted to let Thaden take the lead, he could now see that it was time to intercede. Thaden was far to upset over Rowan to act rationally. “We should be focusing on what’s most important here, not fighting among ourselves. And...” He turned his gaze on Kenze. “Pointing fingers won’t help the situation. The longer we waste time arguing, the more dire the situation becomes.”

“What do you propose we do?” Riona asked him, attempting to steer the conversation away from Rowan.

Lierin took a moment to gather his thoughts. He could sense Thaden’s growing desperation and concern and it worried him. But, Rowan wasn’t their only concern at the moment. There was still the issue of Caroline that needed to be dealt with.

“While I believe that finding Prince Rowan is a priority, I have to remain objective. Basmorte is vulnerable right now.” He looked to Thaden, his eyes filled with a mix of understanding and sympathy. With a composed yet firm voice, he continued. “I have to believe that where ever Rowan is, he is safe, for now. We should then focus on locating the Queen first and foremost. Until we have her in custody, the future of Basmorte is uncertain.”

Worried glances were exchanged throughout the room, each of them understanding the gravity of the situation. The room fell into a heavy silence, the weight of uncertainty pressing down on them all.

“Are you suggesting that we just abandon the search for Rowan?” Thaden stared at Lierin, his gaze hard as anger marred his features.

“Thaden, I understand your concern for Rowan, but we can not ignore the imminent threat that the Queen poses to the Kingdom.” Lierin told him, his voice steady and commanding.

Thaden, weary from the endless worrying, met Lierin’s intense gaze. “Caroline’s treachery can not be underestimated, but Rowan’s safety is my priority. I won’t rest until he’s found.”

“Losing sight of the bigger picture will only leave us vulnerable.” Lierin countered, his tone unwavering. “Caroline’s betrayal has weakened your defenses. Until she’s captured and brought to justice, the Kingdom remains at risk.”

Thaden’s jaw clenched in frustration. “I know the danger she poses, Lierin. But, Rowan is out there, possibly in grave danger. I can not abandon him.”

Lierin’s expression softened, understanding flickering in his eyes. “I don’t expect you to abandon him, nor would I ask that of you. But, we need to act swiftly and decisively. With Caroline at large, our efforts to protect Basmorte will always be compromised.”

Thaden sighed heavily, torn between his duty as regent and his desperate need to find his beloved. “I won’t ignore the threat that we are faced with, but I simply can not set aside the search for Rowan. I will not.”

“Prince Lierin is right, your majesty.” Greagor interjected, his voice resonating with concern. “We need to strengthen our defenses. Our people rely on us for protection. That should be our first priority. Even Prince Rowan would agree with that.”

Thaden rubbed his temples, grappling with the weight of his responsibilities. Standing in as regent had not been his idea but with Rowan missing, he was the logical choice. It wasn’t an easy task though. He had to be both a ruler and a husband. Objective while filled with concern for his mate. He wasn’t prepared for this. He was never meant to be King. That burden had fallen on Lierin as the oldest. He was better suited to rule than Thaden but this was now Thaden’s responsibility and he would honor his duty to the best of his ability. “Fine.” He said with a sigh of defeat. “We’ll focus on Caroline. But every available resource must be used in the continuing search for Rowan. We can not afford to lose him. I can not afford to lose him.”

Lierin nodded, a sense of grim determination settling over him. “Agreed, We’ll mobilize our forces, intensify the search for both Caroline and Rowan. But, know this. The safety of the Kingdom must take precedence.”

Thaden straightened, his resolve firm. “I won’t forget my duty to the Kingdom. We’ll find them both and Caroline will answer for her crimes.”

Kenze, his features etched with suspicion, spoke with an air of uncertainty. “Even if Rowan is found, can we truly trust him to lead? His Vampire lineage might cloud his judgment, putting the other realms at risk.”

Riona bristled at Kenze’s words. “You speak as if his Vampire blood defines him entirely. Remember, his is also part Shee. I’ll admit that I too had misgivings about him when first we met but I have seen into his heart and he has proven his worth to me. I would trust him with my life.”

Kenze shook his head as he licked his lips and sighed heavily. “His allegiance will always be divided. No man can serve two masters and be loyal to both. His Vampire instincts may override any good intentions he has towards our realms. Besides, wasn’t the whole reason for invading Basmorte to shift the power away from the Vampires? We’ve finally gotten that Vampire bitch off the throne and now you want to give it to another one?”

Thaden’s patience was wearing thin. He pinched his lips together tightly, his posture stiffened as he ran his hand through his long hair. “Rowan’s heritage doesn’t determine his loyalty. He’s proven himself time and time again. And, for your information, Lord Kenze, nothing has been given to him. He was born to rule Basmorte. As the only living son of the late King Desmond, it is Prince Rowan’s birthright. He is the true heir to the throne.”

Kenze shrugged dismissively, rolling his storm gray eyes. “Face reality, Thaden. He’s more than likely dead by now anyway. And, even if he is not, can we really risk our futures on such uncertainty?”

Thaden’s temper flared, his fists tightened in anger. “You speak of him as though his life means nothing! If you doubt his worth then challenge me instead. I will champion him and when I kill you, the matter will be settled.”

Kenze laughed, leaning forward and holding Thaden’s icy gaze. “You sound so sure that you can defeat me. Perhaps you underestimate your opponent.”

“Perhaps you underestimate yours.” Thaden growled in response.

Lierin scowled, his expression pinched and his tone sharp as he stepped in before the situation could escalate further. “Thaden, Lord Kenze, this bickering won’t bring us any closer to finding Prince Rowan or Caroline. I know emotions are high, but we must focus on our goals here.”

Thaden’s chest heaved with rage but he forced himself to a take a step back, though his gaze remained locked on Kenze. “We all have doubts and fears but I know Rowan. He is strong, compassionate, and fiercely devoted. I will not stand by and allow anyone to tarnish his name.”

Kenze’s expression remained stubborn though a hint of uncertainty flickered in his eyes. “I hope for everyone’s sake that you are right, Thaden. But, until we have proof of his fate, we should consider others who would, perhaps, be more fitting to rule over Basmorte.”

“More fitting?” Caffrey raised an eyebrow as he turned his attention to the dark Elf.

“Yes.” Kenze said, giving Caffrey a scrutinizing stare. “I do not believe that Prince Thaden is in the right frame of mind to remain regent. It is clear to all that his only priority is finding his husband. I fear that this lack of care could be detrimental to the well-being of the Kingdom.”

Jalgrith scoffed. “As if you care about the well-being of the Kingdom. Your people have been after these lands for years. This is nothing more than a feeble bid to claim the throne for yourself.”

Kenze shrugged, leaning back in his chair and crossing his arms over his chest he said, “It’s no secret that I feel I would be better suited to the throne, but I am not an unreasonable man. I’m willing to claim my right through one to one combat. What say you, Prince Thaden?” Kenze smirked as he again looked to the Elven Prince, quirking an eyebrow. “Are you ready to defend your title, or will you continue to hide behind your brother and allow him to fight your battles for you? Are you really that weak?”

There was an outcry of voices as everyone in the room began to protest. Even Nasir who, until this point had remained passive, voiced his opinion on the matter, telling Kenze to sit down and shut up, much to the surprise of everyone present. Dalyor reached for the bow at his feet, anticipating trouble but Lierin gave him a stern shake of the head and he withdrew his hand though his focus remained on Kenze. Riona cursed under her breath as Jalgrith flung various insults towards Kenze. Thaden, on the other hand was furious.

The air around him began to stir with an energy so thick it hinged on oppressive. Kenze cocked an eyebrow, watching the Elven Prince, and smirked. “You plan to attack me with Elven magic, really?” Kenze shook his head and chuckled. “You’re more of a coward than I thought.”

Thaden attempted to rise from his chair only to be stopped by Tomag who, once again, took the initiative to calm Thaden before he acted rashly and out of anger before thinking things through. He really was a bit too impulsive. That was something Tomag planned to bring up to him at a later date and, perhaps, teach him how to rein in his anger.

“Lord Kenze, you would do well to watch how you speak here. All of us, aside from you, are loyal to Prince Thaden and Rosegate.” Tomag fixed his gaze on Kenze, his tone sharp. The warning in his words was clear. “Prince Thaden leads with wisdom, not weakness. He has never relied on anyone to fight his battles for him and is one of the bravest men that I have ever had the honor of knowing. He’s also a formidable warrior, trained by the best Eleven warriors so you may want to think twice about what it is you are asking. Take back your challenge and maybe we will allow you leave here with your life.”

“And if I refuse?” Kenze sneered. “If I insist on a fight and win, will you all cut me down in retaliation?”

“I’ll cut you down now.” Connor huffed with a shake of his head. “I’m sick of hearing you squawk. Your voice is as grating as a cat in heat.”

A chorus of laughter erupted from around the table though Kenze was less than amused. “After I’ve finished with the Prince, you’re next, mongrel.”

Connor chuckled. “Such strong words from an imp who doesn’t even carry a sword. I hear you fight with a gilded short blade, befitting a princess.”

Kenze took a step toward Connor. His fists clenched so tight that he could feel the sting of his nails biting into his flesh. “Supposed you’d like to taste my blade.” He hissed through clenched teeth.

A deep, guttural growl rose up from Connor and he bared his teeth, now long, thick canines. His eyes glowed golden and Kenze stopped mid stride, his eyes widening in fear.

“Oh for the love of the Gods, can we stop with the male posturing.” Riona rolled her eyes in annoyance. “This is why women should rule instead of men.”

“Fuck that!” Greagor nearly shouted. “We’d all be dead.”

Another round of laughter filled the great hall though the look on Lierin’s face said he was anything but amused. “Lord Kenze.” Lierin sighed, rubbing his temples. “Thaden will stand as regent until Prince Rowan is found. There is no disputing that and there will be no challenge. Your claim is baseless.”

Kenze stared back at Lierin, his lips pursed as he narrowed his eyes. “That’s it isn’t it?” He growled. “This isn’t about the Vampire Prince or his supposed birthright. It’s about power. It’s always been about power! Rosegate already holds the most land, the most wealth, and commands the greatest army but still you want more! All this power and control--Rosegate seeks dominance over all the realms and they’re starting by seizing control of Basmorte!”

Thaden was on his feet in a second, his hand moving to rest on his sword. Pushing himself away from the table he stormed over to Kenze and for a moment the unseelie thought he might strike him. “How dare you accuse us of being power hungry. If anyone here is after power it’s you.”

“And why shouldn’t I?” Kenze took a step back, away from Thaden. He continued his rant though he tried to put more distance between himself and Thaden, Thaden advanced further. Kenze began to tremble and it was clear to all that he was more mouth than action. As it was, Thaden towered over the man, and out matched him in brawn and strength.

Through all his blustering, Kenze could never stand up against Thaden in a fight no matter how skilled he was with a blade--which was debatable--he simply was too small and physically weaker.

“Your people have dominated us for centuries. Forced us into hiding, to live in the shadows, always bowing down to the more superior race and you’re surprised that we now want to fight back?”

“Your kind choose darkness and isolation when you decided to breed with demons. Do not blame us for your mistakes.” Thaden backed Kenze up against the table and Kenze gasped, nearly falling over Riona who quickly pushed him away from her.

Sensing Thaden’s intent, Tomag intervened, moving to stand between Thaden and the dark Elf. “Gentlemen, please control your emotions. This is not the time nor the place to engage in violence. I think we’ve lost sight of what this conference is about. We’ve come here in hopes of avoiding war, not to start one.”

“Quite right.” Lierin said calmly as he rose from his seat and gave the others a stern look that told them instantly that he was done with the fighting. “Thaden, please return to your seat. And Lord Kenze, your overestimate our influence. Our goal has always been to maintain stability, not dominance.”

“Do not take my threats so lightly.” Kenze shot back. “The unseelie court is prepared to fight. We will seize power and it will us who dominate you!”

Jalgrith laughed at this. “You and whose army, literally? The unseelie court lacks the numbers to orchestrate a coup, Kenze. And you have no allies to back you.”

“You underestimate us. We are stronger than you think.”

Greagor shook his head and sighed. “Lord Kenze, your desire for power blinds you. The unseelie court can not wage a war they can not win. Any attempts you make will be futile.”

“You are all fools!” Kenze bellowed, his shrill voice echoed throughout the hall. “You invite me here and then you insult me. This slight will not go unanswered. Mark my words, we will not be content to remain in the shadows for long.”

With that, Kenze turned on his heels and stormed out of the hall, his foot steps echoing as he made a hasty retreat.

“And then there were ten.” Jalgrith laughed. “I expected no less though, really. Kenze is all talk. Once he calms down we’ll find him in the nearest tavern getting shit faced.”

“Should we be worried? Will Lord Kenze make good on his threats?” Thaden looked to the others, the concern on his face evident for all to see.

“Kenze spins tales to elevate his own stature.” Jalgrith raised his mug and drank down it’s contents. “I doubt even his own people would back him. They know they’re in no position to challenge anyone.”

“Still,” Thaden rubbed the back of his neck and sighed. “I do not like these talks of war. Rowan’s only desire is to free the enslaved and bring peace back to the realms. I know it will not be easy to undo the harm his father did but I will not undermine Rowan’s plans by waging a war against the unseelie.”

“I don’t think it will come to that.” Lierin told him. “If we stand united, Rowan’s return should quell any doubts about his intentions. Stability lies in holding true to our beliefs. Peace will be had. Just have faith in that. All will be well.”

“I hope you’re right.” Thaden turned his head and looked away from the others. Though he was physically present, his mind was someplace far off. “If you’ll excuse me.” He sucked in a deep breath as he stood and, slowly and with heavy steps, removed himself from the hall.

***

His heart was heavy with worry as Thaden made his way out to the Palace gardens. A place where Rowan told him he would often go to be alone and reminisce about the past. Rowan never thought he would ever see those gardens again and Thaden never thought he’d ever visit them without Rowan by his side.

The double doors creaked, the moaning of rusted hinges cut through the silence like a knife. Somberly, Thaden stepped out into the tranquility of the gardens where he sought solace amidst the fragrant blooms and calming whispers of nature. Thaden stopped and looked. Many times he had listened to Rowan speak of the gardens. His favorite were the fountains of roses and the lush greenery that sprang up in the middle of a dark, bleak, wasteland devoid of life or color. Rowan’s description though did not give the garden the justice it was due.

All around Thaden was a rainbow of color. Roses and wild flowers spilled out over the wall and onto the stone walkway. The floral scent of of spring hung in the air but only in this one spot of the Palace. The gardens were radiant and alive when they should have been dead. They were in early November now, too cold for flowers yet, from where Thaden stood, he could have sworn that it was mid June. Neither frost, nor the icy chill of winter had touched the gardens and yet, Thaden recalled Rowan saying how everything was brown and dead when last he had come to visit the place.

Well, it was anything but dead now and Thaden had no way to explain how Rowan’s beloved garden had just suddenly sprung to life, seemingly overnight. If Thaden hadn’t known better, he would have sworn that he could hear birds chirping overhead. It was all so surreal, like walking through a dream. The farther into the garden that Thaden ventured, the more he felt as though he’d stepped out of Basmorte and into some mystical realm that existed far beyond the reach of mortal men.

Everything around him from the bright colors to the sunlight shining down on him, even the grass beneath his boots that was a bit too green for a place that rarely saw the sun, all of it reminded him of Rowan. He could almost feel him near. If he closed his eyes he could see Rowan standing before him, his vibrant eyes shimmering like jewels and his smile, so radiant, it could light up the darkest night.

Thaden laid his hands against the stone wall that surrounded the garden. The city below, though mid afternoon, slept. A cool breeze blew past him. The air around seemed to ripple with a strange energy. An odd sensation overcame him and his heart began to pound. His chest tightened and his body trembled. The mate bond that was ever present, linking he and Rowan together suddenly tugged at him, forcing him to turn his head to the right. The pull was so powerful that it nearly knocked him off his feet. Was it trying to tell him something?

Turning, he caught sight of something only a few feet away from him. Something that had not been there before. There, amidst the dancing petals and the gentle rustle of leaves, he spotted a figure standing at the edge of a marble fountain, it’s silhouette framed against the mid day sun. Golden hues of light bathed the figure in a warm, ethereal glow. Thaden’s heart skipped a beat at the sight before him. The figure appeared lost in thought, their eyes fixed on the sprawling city below.

“Rowan?” Thaden called softly, his voice carrying a mix of bewilderment and longing.

Startled, Rowan turned swiftly, his eyes widening in disbelief before a wave of emotions washed over his face. Without a word, Rowan rushed toward Thaden, closing the distance between them. In an instant, they were wrapped in each other’s arms. Thaden’s arms encircled Rowan tightly. He crushed Rowan against him and held him close, as if afraid he might vanish again if he let go.

“I thought I’d lost you.” Thaden murmured, his voice breaking with emotion.

“I’m here, Thaden, I’m here.” Rowan assured him, his tone soft and filled with tenderness. His fingers brushed gently against Thaden’s cheek, wiping away a stray tear that had escaped Thaden’s eye. Their gazes locked and in that shared moment, the weight of uncertainty lifted, leaving behind an overwhelming rush of joy and gratitude. Without hesitation, Thaden leaned in, capturing Rowan’s lips in a fervent kiss. For Thaden, the world faded away, leaving only the sensation of Rowan’s presence, the taste of his lips, and the assurance that his beloved was safe and alive. “Tell me I’m not dreaming.” Thaden whispered against Rowan’s neck.

“You’re not dreaming.” Rowan told him, his voice husky and filled with need. “I am here, my love. I’m really here.” Rowan closed his eyes, pressing his forehead gently against Thaden’s. His hands fisted the fabric of Thaden’s tunic as he pulled Thaden to him. Their bodies pushed together, chest to chest, and Rowan nuzzled Thaden’s neck. His breath was hot and wet as he traced kisses along his neck to the spot where his throat dipped down into his chest.

“I can’t bear the thought of losing you.” Thaden whispered.

Rowan’s hand found Thaden’s their fingers intertwining as he replied. “You won’t. I promise. I’m yours, forever.”

***

Thaden and Rowan sat among the garden flowers, the fragrant scent of wild daffodils and bluebells embraced them. Rowan held Thaden’s hand gently, his eyes filled with unwavering determination and a new found sense of purpose. “I’ll be yours forever. Thaden.” Rowan declared, his voice carrying a resolute tone. “You never have to fear losing me again. I’ve made my choice--I choose to be here, by your side, because my love for you surpasses anything else.”

Thaden’s heart swelled with a myriad of emotions, hearing those heartfelt words coming from Rowan’s lips.

They talked for what seemed like an eternity, time melting away as they shared their experienced. fears, and hopes for the future. Rowan spoke of his journey to Annwn, recounting the encounter with his mother and the choice he’d faced--to stay in that otherworldly realm or return to Basmorte. His decision had been clear--to return to Thaden, his soul mate, his anchor in this tumultuous world.

Thaden in turn had filled Rowan in on all that had happened in his absence. Including the conference with the heads of the three armies that had marched on the city. He explained how Caroline had escaped and how they had combined forces in the search for her.

As their conversation drew to a close, Thaden suggested they return to the great hall to inform the others of Rowan’s return and discuss their next steps. Standing together, ready to leave the gardens, Rowan’s attention was suddenly drawn upward by the caw of a raven perched in a nearby tree,

Curious, and a bit baffled, Thaden watched as Rowan turned his gaze to the raven, and to Thaden’s astonishment, began to converse with the bird as if it were an old friend. Words spoken by the raven seemed to resonate with Rowan, clear as a bell, yet Thaden heard nothing but bird calls.

“What are you doing?” Thaden questioned.

Rowan turned to Thaden with urgency in his eyes. “I can hear the raven speak.” Rowan explained. “Thaden, I know where Caroline is hiding. The bird can lead us to her.”

Thaden’s brow furrowed. “You can understand the bird?”

“Yes, I can.” Rowan affirmed. “We must act quickly, before she slips away again.”

Thaden and Rowan exchanged quick glances, each understanding the urgency of the situation. There was no time to waste. They sprinted back inside the Palace, eager to begin the pursuit and put an end to Caroline once and for all.