Chapter 45

Shelly clutches her chest in shock and explodes into tears, "Everything is falling apart! Juliana missing, Father's dead, and now this!" I grab her and hold her close, soothing her. "It's gonna be alright. Just let it all out, and breathe" I tell her, stroking her hair. "I've got to go tell the others. Why don't you stay here and get some rest my friend" I continue. At this Shelly wipes her face and stands tall. "No, Nora. No, thank you! I am tired of all of this terror, and sadness, and I'm going to be part of the team that puts a stop to it!" she says coldly. "That's the spirit! Let's go get the others and figure out a plan!" I reply hurriedly. 

Once Jax, Tulip, Roonie, Luke, Bonnie and Arthur join us in the throne room, I explain about Richard's death, and my horrible vision. "But we barely got to know him!" Arthur says downheartedly. Roonie places her arm around Luke and rests her head on his shoulder in support. Silence spreads across the room for a moment as our group, and Luke curls his fists tightly. "This is madness! I'm going after him!" he growls behind clenched teeth. Roonie breaks away from him turning to face him, and her voice trembles, "Darling it's too dangerous! Please don't go!" Jax stands in thought for a moment before chiming in, "Don't worry Roonie, I'll go with him." She looked a little relieved, but now Tulip was the one concerned. I heard her whisper to Jax, something about not wanting him to go. But, surely he calmed her, for ten minutes later the boys were off to hunt down the rabid lycan Phillip. 

 
Shelly demanded to go but us girls helped calm her, and remind her that she would only be putting herself at risk with her emotions running high. "Besides, you should wait here for Thatcher and Juliana's return" Tulip tells her sweetly. The reminder of her husband and kidnapped daughter sends her reeling into tears once again, she rushes off to her room as Tulip calls out apologies. "Oh, Mom don't cry..." Arthur says as he turns to follow her. Roonie frowns and turns to Tulip, "Why would you say that?" But, Tulip looks taken aback, "I was only trying to help. She shouldn't be out there with that horrible creature! I wasn't trying to upset her, but encourage her to be positive about her family." Bonnie steps in abruptly, "Hey! You know what I think? I think she should tell it to her straight. No sugar coating, just the facts. If you've got that then you can start working through the issues. I think you guys are too easy on her sometimes!" Tulip throws her hands up on her hips and scowls, "Well you know what Bonnie!? Nobody asked you! Not everyone likes such a sassy, brash attitude all the time!" Bonnie raises her eyebrows in disbelief, and Roonie pipes up, "Yeah Bonnie. Maybe for once you could stay out of it!" 

Bonnie gives Roonie a little shove, "At least I don't shrink in fear every time something new or a little scary happens!" Tulip shoves Bonnie in anger, "Hey! Don't shove her!" Within seconds the girls are in a shouting match, arguing back and forth, a couple of shoves here and there, and a few torn dresses before I can interject. My voice goes unnoticed as the girls tumble around in their ridiculous brawl. Trying again, I take a deep breath, and say as loudly as I can, "GIRLS STOP THIS AT ONCE!" They freeze instantly and rise, attempting to smooth their disheveled hair.  "Just look at yourselves! We're best friends, and family. Some of us are even royalty; how can you behave this way?" Roonie's maroon hair now hung in a frazzled mess around her shoulders. The sleeves of Bonnie's dress were ripped at the seams, and Tulip's right eye now a slightly purple puff. Roonie bursts into tears and puts her face into her palms. Bonnie scoffs, "Typical." Tulip barks, "Shut up Bonnie!" "Both of you stop it!" I shout, "Look I know tensions are high with everything that is going on, and I know that's the only reason you guys would be so horrible to one another, but we've got to keep our heads about us! We've got to be strong and stick together! Otherwise Dragon Valley and the other evils win! They want us to fall apart, and turn on each other." 

"What ever Nora! I'm not apologizing for them being hateful to me. I'm going to have the maids draw me a bath" Tulip snaps as she storms off. "Good cause I'm not apologizing for something I didn't do!" Bonnie calls after her before mockingly storming off in the other direction. "Girls...." I say softly as a last attempt, but only Roonie remains with me; sobbing into her palms. "There, there now Roonie. We'll get it worked out" I tell her. She sniffs hard, and wipes her face. "This is why I never speak my mind. Every time I do it never goes well. I was just worried about Shelly. I don't think Tulip should have brought up her husband and missing daughter while she's so upset" Roonie says between hiccups. "I know Roon, but everyone is on edge right now and scared, and well Tulip was just trying to help. You know that she would never try to upset Shelly  intentionally" I explain. She nods, "I know, I just got upset and with everything going on it just bursted out of me! I don't know how Bonnie can do that all the time. I know they didn't mean what they were saying, but it still hurt my feelings....some Queen of Learia I am." I pull her into a hug, "Don't even worry about that. Learia's royal courts are doing just fine while you and Luke are helping us here. Once all this mess with Dragon Valley and everything is settled, I know you can return to Learia and be the Queen it needs" She gives me a smile, "Oh Nora, You always know what to say."

After gathering the girls back up, and talking things through, apologies are made. "I knew it was just because of stress! Our little group of girls is now stronger than ever, and I'm glad that they were able to work things out. If we turn on each other there's no way we can take down Carolin" I think to myself. Roonie suggests everyone gets a good night sleep, and Tulip adds that we should follow it with a hearty breakfast. "I think we'll all feel much better in the morning" Bonnie smiles. "Group hug!" I say in a corny voice, and the girls chuckle as we embrace.

Late that night as everyone sleeps, I awake in the darkness. The satin lined comforter hugs me, and I quickly scan the room. Unsure of what had woken me I decide to crawl out of bed and check the window. Peering down to the courtyard and castle entrance I can just make out three figures walking in a line. The middle one slouches and walks rather slowly, and every now and then the last one pokes him with what appears to be a walking stick. "I bet I can guess who that is..."  I think to myself, and quickly rush downstairs.

The large castle doors swing open with a bang and sure enough Luke, Jax and Phillip come barging through the door. The guys each grab Phillip by the arm, and secure him tightly. "Highness..." he snarls in a condescending tone. "Indeed! You are aware that Madame Parfon is under agreement not to harm Brendlewood aren't you?" I rhetorically ask. "Not anymore it's not" he laughs. Luke, Jax and I exchange glances and I instruct them to take him to the dungeons. I follow the three of them down the old staircase as it winds down, far from the main part of the castle. Away from finely decorated rooms, away from the sweet smells of the kitchen and maids scurrying about. Deep underneath the castle the cold gray walls of the dungeons now surround us. Cobwebs are caked in every corner, and the lights are very dim as we make our way to the first room. "This place reminds me of a jail" I whisper to Jax as Luke takes charge of Phillip. "Yea it's pretty grim down here; haven't had to use it for quite some time" he answers back in a low voice. "How do we know he won't escape?" I ask nervously. "Oh not to worry Nora, this place is protected by very strong enchantments" Jax reassures.

We gather around Phillip who has been bound against the dungeon wall and I ask him to explain what he meant upstairs. Phillip just stares, then a nasty smile spreads across his face, "I remember when we first met. I remember thinking how delicious you looked, and how I couldn't wait to run my tongue along your neck." Without warning Jax tightens his fist and it meets Phillips face with a forceful punch. "You will show respect to our Queen, you filth!" Jax shouts. Phillip eyes him carefully, "Pretty brave for a faerie-boy. I'd be careful if I were you." "You honestly think making threats in your situation is wise?" Luke interjects angrily. Phillip breaks out into mad laughter at this for reasons unknown. "Enough! Tell us why you're killing villagers! Tell us why you're breaking the contract with Parfon and Brendlewood!" I demand fiercely. 

But, Phillip grows silent and refuses to answer. This time Luke sends a powerful hit to Phillip's stomach and then another to his face, but still he refuses to talk. As blood from his busted lip drips down his chin, I inch a little closer and tell him, "You will tell us what plans Parfon has, and why you are killing the villagers!" Suddenly his eyes flash and in one motion he rips his arms from their bindings and knocks out Jax and Luke, sending them to the floor. "Your little enchantments seem to have failed" Phillip smiles, "Now we can have a little fun." He lunges forward grabbing me, and presses me against the wall firmly. Unable to move I look on in fear as rips the shoulder from my gown and runs his putrid tongue along my shoulder, and up to my neck. He tries to kiss me, but I turn away each time, until I feel his hand upon my cheek and I fall to the ground. He pounces onto me, grabbing my jaw and forcing a kiss as he runs his hand wherever he likes. "HELP!" I scream, but he hits me again. "SHUT UP!" he shouts, but I continue to call for help as loud as I can before he rips the belt off his pants and shoves his grimey socks into my mouth. Tearing the top of my gown from my torso, he continues to snarl for me to shut up as he sends his belt slapping across my bare back. The painful sensation is too much to bear until suddenly it stops, and I see Phillip upon the floor next to me with Jax standing over him. 

Luke sits up too and brushes himself off. "Oh Nora! Oh highness I'm so sorry!" he apologizes guiltily. I gather up the top of my gown and cover myself as I slowly stand. "He packs a powerful hit, I'm so sorry Nora" Jax says. "Don't worry boys, I'll be ok. Just need to get some salve on this" I tell them, wincing a little. "I don't think you should be down here Nora, it's too dangerous. Luke and I can get the answers out of him. But we will need Tulip to renew the enchantments. I think that because it's been so long since they were first put in place, they may have weakened" Jax explains. "I think that's a good idea. Are you sure you guys will be ok?" I ask. "Oh yea, once those enchantments are restored he'll be no match. Why don't I help you get upstairs? Then, I can get Tulip to come do the enchantments. Will you be able to handle him alone Jax?" Luke asks offering me his arm. Jax gives a little chuckle, "Yea, this joker isn't going anywhere."

Once I'm doctored up, and Tulip returns from the dungeon we keep each other company in the servants kitchen where the fire still burns in the fireplace. "Cookie! You're up awfully early" Tulip says in surprised tone. Her raspy voice gives a little laugh, "Same to you dearie! I always start my day at 4am! This breakfast isn't gonna make itself." She puts on some coffee and offers us some croissants that she made the evening before. Then she gets to work preparing food for the day. "What do you think he meant by 'Not anymore it's not'? I mean do you think Parfon has given the order for the killings, or Phillip's just gone rogue?" Tulip asks as she smears butter onto her croissant. "I'm not sure. Parfon does have a nasty track record of allowing horrible things to happen. I'm betting that she's put Phillip up to it...but why? What good does it do to kill one or two villagers?" I respond. "Unless it's a message to us....that's it! I'll bet she's got him killing some of our people as some sort of message" Tulip exclaims. "Well, if that's the case...the message isn't clear of her intentions" I frown. 

Just then, Luke and Jax emerge from the dungeon, and make their way into the kitchen where they find Nora and Tulip. "Nora! We come with great news, well maybe not so great, but we did get answers" they explain eagerly. "What's going on?" I ask. "The little runt downstairs told us that this is all Parfon's doing. She ordered these attacks in order to make a point to Queen Carolin who, get this happens to be her cousin" Jax explains. Tulip and I glance at each other a little puzzled. "Did you just say Parfon and Carolin are cousins?" Tulip carefully asks. "You know, that really explains why Parfon was so eager to send Thistle here. If she were to take over Brendlewood, she would have one of the strongest kingdoms at her command!" I add. "Yeah, and apparently Parfon thinks she can do a better job at this evil queen business than Carolin. She's even trying to build her own kingdom! Phillip talked about her desires to overtake the realm" Luke says. "Mmhmm, and Carolin's no dummy, she's wise to Parfon and the two can't stand each other. She knows Parfon's been stealing Lycans, and she isn't too happy about it" Jax explains. "I say we let the two old goats kill each other! You know two birds, one stone!" Luke says as he folds his arms. I give my head a shake and reply, "I'd love that just as much as you, but the destruction in their wake would be catastrophic to the realm." "Fair point, so what's our plan then?" Luke wonders. Tulip smirks before replying, "I say we capture her and get her talking surely she knows of Carolin's plans if she's trying to one up her." "Good idea. Jax, do you think Brendlewood's men have trained long enough to be able to handle that old battleaxe?" Luke asks. "I took some of them on during practice recently, and I must say, we have a pretty good army on our hands" Jax replies. 

 
I give a little nod before saying, "Lets set this plan in motion then. We strike at dawn! If Parfon wants to play hardball to get Carolin's attention, then I say we take Parfon into our custody and that'll really get Carolin confused. She'll think we've teamed up with Parfon...you know this could work in our favor, perhaps an even trade. If Carolin wants Parfon, then by all means she can have her. We'll give her Parfon if she'll give us what we want. If she hands Juliana over to her mother, then we'll gladly hand Parfon over to her. Let the old crone have her to do as she pleases." Tulip ponders for a moment before saying, "Sounds like a great plan, and Shelly will be so happy. Do you really think this will work?" "It all depends on how badly Carolin wants that cousin of hers. If Parfon has been building an army to take her kingdom down, then I think she will gladly hand Juliana over" Luke adds. Just as Shelly enters the kitchen, and has clearly overheard about the trade, she is glad to join in on the conversation between our group. "You know that ex-mother-in-law of mine hates me to bits, and she's no fool. It's going to be hard to convince her that we have Parfon" Shelly says. Luke's eyes grow wide as he knows how much just hearing Juliana's name pains Shelly. "Mom! Are you alright?" Luke asks. Shelly smiles slightly as she replies, Yes, I'm alright. It's just with everything that has happened lately, it's just really tough on me right now, however you're plan just might work. You're right Nora. If Carolin wants Parfon bad enough, then she'll make the trade. Good thinking on your part. However, if she doesn't...." Shelly closes her eyes tightly to fight off the stinging tears and calms herself enough to continue, "If she doesn't, then my baby girl will still be out there somewhere with those evil monsters. I'm sorry if you all think I'm too fragile to deal with this sort of thing. Some queen I have turned out to be."  

I give Shelly a look of pity and hug her tightly, "Oh Shelly, you will be a great Queen. Alot of awful things have happened to you and your family. Things will get better you'll see. Besides, you have friends here that will stand beside you through thick and thin. We're all pretty much family here. I don't know everything that evil queen has done to you, but you're safe here, and in the walls of Blue Haven. I'm sure Thatcher will return to you soon, and by then we should have Juliana home with you, safe and sound." "I know you're right, but why does everything have to happen with one thing right after another? First my daughter, then Thatcher had to leave with Cade, and now my father. Can't anything just ease off a bit before attacking me again? I just don't know how much more I can take" Shelly tells her. "Shhh...Everything will be alright. Just try to imagine holding little Juliana in your arms again, and she's home safe and sound" I sooth. "We'll get my little sister back, and those evil doers will pay, I promise!" Luke adds. "Here, here!" the group shouts.

After everyone has slept soundly, the night sky turns into a blinding orange as the sun lights up the sky. A well fed group of troops packs their gear and marches off to the east. We say our goodbyes to Jax, Luke, and Arthur, making them swear their return. "I think I've got this vision thing kind of figured out. Tulips done some reading up on these types of things, and learned alot" I tell them. "Well it's not exactly like the one pictured in the enchantment book, but it appears to work the same for the most part. Basically when Nora wears that amulet she can channel visions of those whom she is close to. Ones that are special to her can also project a vision when great emotion is present; like danger or joy" Tulip explains. "Only we haven't quite figured out all the kinks. Not really sure how it all works, with that being said, I'll try to tap in to your emotions and see if I can retrieve visions while you guys are away" I tell the guys. "That's incredible Tulip! You've always been a clever one!" Jax beams before kissing her. "Ok Nora if you can get the visions, you'll know how things are going. Sounds like a plan!" 

Arthur stands in his normal quiet state, but looks ready, and wears a brave expression. "How handsome you look when you're all dressed in uniform! Please be careful baby, you know I couldn't go on if something were to happen to you" Bonnie says downheartedly. "I'll come back to you love" Arthur tells her sweetly. Roonie clutches on to Luke in a white-knuckled hug, "I'm scared darling..." Luke grins down at her, and peels her off of him. He gently tilts her chin up so that their eyes meet. "Now listen my love, it's ok be to afraid. But what you must'n do is smile. Or laugh. No, no, none of that." The corners of Roonie's mouth turn up as she tries not to let a little smile break through, but after a few seconds she bursts into laughter. "There's my girl. Don't worry, I'll be fine" he tells her as he tenderly kisses her. 

Later on I am finally able to tap into a vision and see a blurry scene of troops. The sight clears and I can see a raging battle in a clearing in the eastern forest.  A terrible sight fills my mind, as swords slash through the air and blood spills from both Brendlewood and Parfon's armies. Their cries of pain ring in my ears, and it's almost to much to bear. Suddenly I see Luke thrown from his horse and he lands with a thud on the ground. A large burly soldier stands over him with a sword ready to stab straight through Luke's heart! But just before the sword lowers, the soldiers head rolls off his shoulders and drops to the ground, followed by his body. Arthur stands with his sword still wielded, blood drips from the end of it as he and Luke glance at the now headless soldier on the ground. Extending his hand, and still wearing a look of both fear and bravery, Arthur helps his brother up. "You ok man?" he asks loudly. Luke nods his head and points at an approaching soldier. The brothers stand at the ready, and quickly take him down. The Brendlewood men are finally pushing through Parfon's troops and they work their way toward the entrance of the large fortress. "Looks like someone upgraded their house" I think as I remember Parfon's old home that wasn't more than a large suburban house. 

Now Jax, Luke and Arthur are breaking through the fortress entrance and the troops ransack the place, seeking Madame Parfon. Inside the main level of the fortress it appears that there is a small market, with people selling their wears and women washing clothes in large basins. "What in the world...." Jax mouths. "She really is building her own kingdom..." Luke says under his breath. "Come on guys! What are you waiting for!?" Arthur calls from up ahead. The Brendlewood troops calm the group of merchants and assure them they mean no harm to them. "We only seek the witch Parfon!" Razo, the Brendlewood lieutenant announces. "That's what we thought!" a merchant shouts as he lunges towards our troops with a sword. In a moment the merchants, Brendlewood men, and the remaining soldiers of Parfon, are swarming around the main area in battle. 

Quickly searching for Parfon through the upper levels, Luke, Jax, and Arthur storm through the fortresses rooms. A large panel with Madame Parfon's portrait adorns the far west wall, and the guys come across it with a jeer. "Ugh...what a mug!" Arthur says in disgust as he looks upon her wrinkled brow and sagging skin. Luke mentions that the panel looks like it could be some kind of doorway. Arthur immediately takes to finding out how it would open, and Jax stands studying the revolting photo of Madame Parfon.  "Yeah, there's definitely a hinge here..." Luke says as he crouches down to get a better look. A curly painted vine stretched across the top of the panel and almost seemed to spell something. "Run?...Oh wait it looks like there is more lettering" Jax mumbles to himself. "What are you talking about?" Arthur asks curiously. "Look up there, it looks like the painting of the vine spells out something, but I can't make out what it says..." Jax explains. The guys stare at the panel for a moment, then suddenly Luke says in a questioning tone, "Prunella?" A robotic tone announces, "Madame Prunella Parfon, welcome", and the panel swings open, indeed revealing a doorway. The guys exchange glances and shrivel their noses at learning Madame Parfon's full name. "That's her full name?" Arthur says in dismay. "It's fully disgusting is what it is!" Jax says. The guys give a little chuckle and then, step through the opening. 

Down a long dark corridor, they walk carefully, until they reach a large wooden door. Luke slowly turns the knob, and the door inches open with a creak. "Do come in boys, I've been expecting you. What ever took you so long?" Madame Parfon says slyly. Arthur and Jax eye one another skeptically. Luke steps into the room boldly, "Well here we are." Jax frowns, "Cut the crap Prunella, you're coming with us!" At this Madame Parfon's eyes flare wildly red, she rises quickly from her large marble throne and shouts, "How dare you speak that name to me? The name is Madame Parfon!" Then as though she's just realized she lost her composure, she smooths her hair and readjusts the cat-rimmed glasses on her face. "Yes, you may call me Madame...and I shan't be going anywhere with you" she calmly says.  Luke darts at her but she shakes her head and from her long cloak emerges a small potion bottle. She launches it towards Luke and green mist billows from it as it hits the floor. "Hah! You missed! Is that all you've got you old goat?" he jeers. Parfon shoots a spell at Arthur and he inches back into the corner of the large enchantment room frozen like a statue. "Oh my dears, this is only the beginning! We still have lots of fun to be had!" Madame Parfon smiles. She snaps her fingers and a dagger rises up from her desk and flies through the air straight toward Jax. He ducks, narrowly missing it, as it pierces the wall behind him. The guys draw their swords and charge at Parfon, but she sweetly calls out...."Brixel!" A tiny glass jar tips over and a tar colored goo spills from it, quickly transforming in to a large bumpy troll. "Wait Brixel, we can help you! Don't you want our help?" Luke negotiates. But, Parfon simply laughs, "Stupid boy, he can't speak. I cut out his tongue months ago as punishment for disobedience." Brixel runs at Jax and swiftly punches him right in the jaw, sending Jax flying back and crashing against a large bookshelf. "Aw, out cold...I thought he could handle more. What a pity" Parfon snidely states. 

Luke gnashes his teeth and tries to run at her but she waves her hand and a rope appears winding itself around his ankles. He falls quickly to the floor just as Brixel kicks him in the stomach. Luke lifts off of the floor and smashes a giant cauldron. It crumbles into a thousand pieces and Parfon barks at Brixel about being an idiot. "Why do I always get idiots?" she rhetorically asks. She flicks her wrist and Brixel moans in pain grasping at his clearly now broken arm. "Oh yes and it can stay that way. Maybe next time you will wait for my command" she says before sending him back into the glass jar. "Now I believe we're missing one...weren't there three of you boys? she wonders aloud. "Nope just me and Jax" Luke lies clutching his stomach as he see's Arthur creeping closer towards them. Parfon whips around and glares at Luke fiercely, she points at the suit of armor, and then to Luke. The suit of armor's sword flies through the air and comes down forcefully as it smoothly separates Luke's arm from his shoulder. "Nobody likes a liar Red" Parfon laughs wildly as Luke wails in terrible pain. Arthur, now right behind her bashes her over the head with a marble bust, and she falls to the ground. 

Arthur quickly grabs a sheet of fabric hanging in the back of the room and wraps Lukes arm. "Don't worry, you'll be ok. It's ok brother, hang on!" Arthur shouts with tears in his eyes as Luke's wound continues pouring out blood. "Oh my gosh..." Jax exclaims grabbing his head and trying to get to his feet. He strips of his shirt and wraps it tightly around Luke's shoulder. "Bind Parfon! I'll try to get his bleeding to stop" Jax shouts frantically. "Stay with us buddy! It's gonna be ok!" As Arthur gets Madame Parfon bound up, Jax gets the bleeding to stop, but Luke has lost consciousness. "NOOOO!" Arthur screams rushing to Luke. "It's ok, it's ok! I think he's still breathing, see?" Jax tries to calm him, but it doesn't appear that Luke is breathing at all. "There's more of that fabric back there, why don't you grab it and we'll wrap up his arm, and strap it to him." Arthur nods and tends to the task. He then flings Parfon over his shoulder, and Jax carries Luke the same, "Let's go!" 

The guys began to look fuzzy and I can feel the vision slipping away. "No! No wait!" I call out, begging to see what is happening, but the vision is gone and I'm surrounded by Bonnie, Tulip, Shelly and Roonie. "What happened Nora!? What did you see?" Roonie asks with fear in her eyes, almost as if she already knows what I'm about to tell her. 

Chapter 44

Back at the castle everyone has gathered in the grand hall where tonight's dinner is being served. At Clover's request a few of her villager friends are invited to join in the celebration of her new child, and gather around the table with the others. As Tulip, Jax and I join them and take our seats, the crowd greets us merrily. My mouth waters as the savory smells of fresh bread, new potatoes, and buttery green beans fill my nostrils. "My lords and ladies, dinner is served!" the cook calls out as she waddles toward the table. The cook, whom we fondly know as 'Cookie' is a very short woman with a belly as round as she is tall. She unsteadily carries out a large silver platter with a delicious roast pheasant in its center and places it on the table, where we are eagerly waiting to devour it.  

A few of the villagers congratulate Reed and Clover, and one of them calls for a toast. A late middle-aged woman stands and requests a toast for the couple. I raise my glass and give her a nod politely, before she proceeds. "Ahem! Firstly, let me thank you, your majesty for this honored invitation. Secondly, I would like to raise my glass and toast my daughter and her new fiance!" the older woman calls out as she smiles brightly. Gasps and happy cheers fill the room, before Reed thanks the woman, "Thank you Hesper! Clover and I are happy to announce our engagement, and equally happy to announce the name of our baby girl!" Clover smiles and stands next to Reed with the baby in her arms as she says loudly, "Everyone meet Harper Lilac Banks!" She beams and holds up the child, who screams loudly. The group smiles and applauds, before someone hollers, "Let's Eat!"

We talk over the meal about the last few days, and the conversation turns to baby Juliana and the brave men tracking her down. My place at the table is next to Shelly and the mermaid who are chatting away about Blue Haven and all it's glory in the past. "You wouldn't believe the kingdoms self reliance before! My ancestor's passed down stories of our people battling giant sea creatures, and gathering crustaceans for trade with the other kingdoms. Then the vampires and lycans started causing problems and over time it has just gotten worse" Nerissa tells her. Shelly frowns and shakes her head, "I can't believe this. Problems today that started hundreds of years ago. Now my dear Juliana is missing and who knows where she could be!" The mermaid places her hand gently on Shelly's forearm and soothes, "There now, those who are going after her will surely find her. I know your head is filled with worry at the moment, but can I just a take a moment to say something?" Glancing up from her plate where her her gaze was previously, Shelly answers, "Sure."

"Rumors at Castle Rock, claim that Blue Haven will rise up and thrive once again, and I think you are just the Queen to do it. My question is this, with Castlerock gone, I sadly don't have a home to return to. Will I be able to reside in the village of Blue Haven when you and the King return?" Shelly smiles and replies, "I can even do better than that! I know we haven't known each other long, but I feel I can trust you. Considering your ancestors are from Blue Haven, how would you like to be one of my most trusted ladies and reside with me at the castle?" Nerissa beams and replies, "Really?? You would really pick me?" Shelly giggles and says, "Of course I would pick you, it's only right, and by your birthright, Blue Haven is your home as well. I would love to have you." Nerissa agrees and the two go on chatting about what Blue Haven will be like and about the delicious meal in front of them.

As I sit quietly spooning mashed potatoes into my mouth a village girls shrieks of excitement direct my ears to the far end of the table. "...It's just so wonderful! Jax and Tulip, back together!" Tulip pretends to be interested in her carrots and looks down at her plate, blushing deeply. Jax is all smiles as other people at the table talk about the news. One villager I have never met before slaps him on the back and grins broadly, "I knew since we were kids you two were meant to be!" Glancing at Roonie to my left I can see her listening intently as all the noise erupting from the other end of table catches her ears. Giggling softly I whisper to her "Jax and Tulip have reconciled..." "WHAT! Oh my gosh! Eeeeek!" she squeals with delight. Jumping up from the table she knocks over her wine glass, but I'm too quick and catch it before it spills. No one seems to notice though because everyone's attention is on a beaming Jax and Tulip. At the other end of the table I see Roonie wrap her arms tightly around Tulip, who stands, and the two jump up and down with excitement. 

Cade gives a little chuckle and playfully wraps his arm around Jax's neck, as if to give him a noogie. Jax ducks out of Cade's hold and gives him a light punch in the arm, the two laugh happily and then Cade clears his throat and stands. "My good friends and family, tonight we celebrate reconciled love, as well as welcoming a new life into the world. Alas, this eve King Thatcher and I begin a long journey throughout the realm. We will search every corner, every home, from the most sacred lands to the most treacherous, and we will only return once we have found the beloved Princess Juliana. Thank you for coming this evening, and we shall see you upon our return. Worry not about the evils of the world on this night, for new life and rekindled love is something to celebrate!" he announces. The guests comment on Juliana's disappearance and give their condolences to Thatcher and Shelly before heading home for the evening. The rest of our group says their goodbyes to Cade and Thatcher, and retire to their chambers.

I hide my tears carefully as Cade approaches me and gently brushes the hair from my face. He catches my eye, and I can't help but to smile. "There it is, that beautiful smile of yours. My darling, I will miss you" he says softly. My eyes well up again and I tell him that I will miss him as well. "Shh it's going to be alright. We will find the princess, and return before you know it. You've done an amazing job as Queen sweetie, and I know all will be well until we are safely back in the kingdom" he tells me soothingly. Tired of always being separated, and at a loss for words, I just lean into his arms and rest my head on his shoulder. The musky scent of his pine fragrance fills my nostrils and I breathe it in as he wraps his arms around me in a warm embrace. "I love you Nora..." he whispers in my ear as he squeezes me tightly. "I love you too sweetheart. Please be safe.." I whisper back. He pulls out of the hug, keeping his hands on my shoulders and looking into my eyes sincerely. "My heart is constant for you, I will return" he reassures me before pressing his lips against mine in a loving kiss. 

 

We make our way over to the front hall where Thatcher and a very hysterical Shelly are saying their goodbyes. "Shelly darling, you've got to pull yourself together! You know I will not stop until I find her. I need you here out of harms way. I need you to be safe, without you Blue Havens reign will fall into the hands of next in line; Alex and Ector. You know that would be detrimental to our kingdom. Please my sweet, you must be strong" he tells her kindly. Shelly nods vigorously and wipes her face. "Yes, I'm sorry. I know you will find her babe. I just...I'm scared. I've got a very bad feeling something awful has happened to her" Shelly replies. "I know dear, but we must not think this way...I love you baby. I'll find her, I promise!" he tells her and pulls her into a hug. He kisses her forehead and asks Cade if he's ready. "Ready indeed, my friend" Cade says boldly.

"Shelly, I know it's not much help, but I haven't had an visions of Juliana so maybe that is good news. I know the guys will find her. Until then you and Nerissa can go over plans for Blue Haven. I think maybe a party to ring in the new King and Queen would be a great start for a blossoming kingdom! You could host it at the Blue Haven castle and invite everyone!" I suggest. I feel a bit unsure if she would like the idea of a party when such worry fills her mind, but I also know Shelly, and keeping her busy is the best way to ease her spirits. Cade chimes in about what a great idea that would be, and Thatcher excitedly tells her about how the Blue Haven castle is almost done being rebuilt. She thinks for a moment, and then agrees that it would be grand. "It really would be a great way to meet everyone...and I do love a good party. Ok I'll get with Nerissa tomorrow. She seems to know alot about the way it used to be, and I'd really like to see some history returned to the kingdom" Shelly says enthusiastically. Thatcher smiles, kisses her goodbye, and picks up his satchel. Cade and I share a kiss, then gives me a wink and turns to leave. Shelly and I stand in the entrance waving goodbye to our men as they mount their horses, and take off into the night. 

Late that night a dream forms in my mind as I sleep. Midi rapidly knocks on Shelly's door to her room, and Shelly tells her to come in. "Midi, whatever is the matter?" she asks. An out of breath Midi replies, "I-It's your father. I'm sorry to have to give you this information, but I'm afraid he's growing weaker, and the doctor said to find you right away. She's not sure how much longer he will be with us." Shelly gently places a hand on Midi's shoulder, and thanks her for the information, and rushes off to her father's room. 

Upon entering the room, Shelly seems to notice how sick her father looks, and not to mention that he can't even get out of bed. "Daddy, I came as soon as I heard the news. Is there anything I can do or get for you?" she asks worriedly. Richard smiles and says, "No my darling daughter, come sit over here where we can talk." She gives a nod, and sit in the chair next to his bed. He holds her hand as he says, "I want you to promise me that know matter what happens to me, that you will go on with your life, and be very careful who you choose to let near you. Thatcher is a good King, listen to what he tells you, because he will protect you from the evil in this world. I know you worry about Juliana, but I know in my heart that King Cade and your husband will find these evil doers and bring her back safely. You need to believe that as well. I really wish I would have the chance to meet her, but you can tell her that her Papa loved her very much." 

"Father, I do believe with all of my heart they will find her, and I do promise to listen to Thatcher. You must believe that you will have the chance to meet your granddaughter when she returns home. Please continue to fight this illness, I need you Daddy and so do your grandchildren" she begs and then drops her eyes to the floor; tears spilling from her eyes. "No, my  dear. My time here is almost up, and I'm afraid I won't get the chance to meet the little princess. Please tell Luke, Arthur, Melina, and Rohan that they have all made me very proud just as their mother has. I love you and I always will" he replies in a very weakened voice. "I love you too Daddy" she tells him with a shaky voice. A smile spreads across Richard's face as he hears his daughter say those words to him. His hand grows limp and slowly slips out of Shellys. As she looks back up at him, his eyes roll to the back of his head, for his body has given up the fight to live. "No! Daddy please don't go, I love you!" Shelly sobs as a storm of tears stream down her cheeks. She lays her head on his chest and cries uncontrollably for now she has lost both of parents and I know she must feel so alone. The doctor then enters the room to check on Richard who notices his lifeless form. She gently covers Richards body, and gives her apologies to Shelly sympathetically before once again leaving the room. 

A sudden rapping at my chamber door wakes me from my sleep, and I find that it's the royal doctor. "Oh dear, I don't think that was a dream, I think I was having a vision in my sleep" I think to myself. The doctor wears a grave expression as she shares the news about Richard. "Oh your majesty, I'm sorry to wake you, but I have come to inform you that the Elder King of Stone Ridge has passed, and has joined his wife in the afterlife." I somberly reply, "Good heavens! Thank you for this information." The doctor slightly frowns and replies, "Shelly is with him now, and she's a mess. Her majesty was in the room with him when he passed. Majesty, if you don't mind me saying, she's really going to need her husband and closest friends now more than ever." A single tear escapes from eye as I remember the pain of losing my own Papa, and I know how Shelly must feel. "Thank you doctor, I'll go see her right away" I respond and take off to see Shelly.

 

As I enter the room, I see Shelly sobbing uncontrollably and give a gentle 'knock knock.' Shelly jumps up from her seat and throws her arms around me tightly. "Oh Nora how am I ever going to overcome this? Now both of my parents are gone. I seem to find happiness for a while, but then tragedy seems to always find me. Am I cursed? I mean first my marriage to Lestat came to an end, and I found happiness with Thatcher. I finally see my family of Stone Ridge, and get close to my father, only to lose him again. Maybe Carolin was right, I'm just a curse to our kind" she bawls. "There, there now. Everything will be alright. This too will come to pass. I have also lost my father, I know the pain my friend. We can be here for each other" I sooth. As Shelly begins to reply, her words become muffled and I space out. Shelly's voice begins to drift off further away from me, as another horrible vision takes over.

Two minutes later I can hear a ringing in my ears that grows louder, until I begin to make out the words. "Nora....NORA! Earth to NORA!!" Shelly is yelling, and she snaps her fingers. "Oh, sorry!" I say with a frown, as the vision fades and our conversation resumes. With a concerned expression Shelly wipes the tears from her eyes and asks, "Nora what is it? What's wrong?" Dazed for only but a moment, I explain in horror, "I just had another one of those awful visions. Something tragic has happened in the village...another villager has been murdered, and I'll give you one guess who it was."

EVERLAST

Look at the sky, it is your heart in my eyes. Feel the North wind as it carries you in its cool breeze, and travel to the stars where memories are made and hope is born. In the pocket of a cloud your life blooms; dispersing into the atmosphere and floating down to earth. The sun rays catch your brilliance and you sparkle; but only for a fleeting moment before you vanish into the vast universe. 




.

Chapter 43

As the midnight sky turns a radiant navy blue color, and the moon is full and bright, Cade and Thatcher gather enough men to take with them to hunt for Kristen and Princess Juliana. Later that night, the group slumbers in their own beds for the first time in weeks, since they journeyed to Castlerock and Stone Ridge. Only a few hours pass by when suddenly a shriek fills the castle corridors as Shelly and I rush through Melina's bedroom door. "What is it? Are you alright?" Shelly and I ask worriedly. "Yes I-uh....I managed to enter Carolin's dreams again, and there are some things I need to discuss with everyone in the throne room at once. I think I have found something useful that can possibly take Carolin and her evil goons down!" Melina tells us. Taking to the corridors I rouse everyone and tell them to meet in the throne room. 

Twenty minutes go by as the sleepy bed dwellers enter the throne room scratching their heads and wipe the sleep from their eyes. "Thank you all for coming on such short notice, but there are somethings that have been brought to my attention. Melina, you may explain to the group what you have seen" I tell them kindly. Melina smiles slightly and says, "Well for you to all understand, I must start from which it all started. I met someone when my mother, Arthur, and I were banned from Dragon Valley, and I was out gathering food supplies from a nearby forest" she begins as she chokes back tears. "His name was Tristan, and he showed me how to use my magic. I guess you can say I'm sort of an enchanter, although I don't have any healing powers. However, every so often I can enter Carolin's dreams. Normally I have to cast a spell to be able to do so, but this time I was sleeping and entered her dreams once more. You see, Carolin was a faerie at one time, and was kidnapped by a witch many years ago. The witch was very cold and cruel towards Carolin and made Carolin her personal servant, and kept her hidden for many years after the kidnapping. The tension between the king and queen grew so strong that their marriage started drifting apart. The king blamed his wife, although he knew she was hurting just as much as he was. Through agony and torment, the queen was found in the bathroom the following morning, with both of her wrists slit and bled out on the floor. A few years later the king's sister, Elizabeth came to the court to care for the king when he fell ill. Soon after that, the king awoke one evening and clasped his chest and fell to the floor. His guards found him only hours later. 

The kingdom had lost their king and no one but his sister, Elizabeth, was in line for the throne now that the queen and his daughter were gone. It was a very sad day in the Kingdom of Dragon Valley. When the witch heard of the deaths of Carolin's parents, she couldn't help but gloat about it in front of Carolin. The witch even went as far as telling Carolin that she was her slave forever and that the villagers would never accept her back into their kingdom because she's a monster. The witch had put a curse on Carolin when she was a baby. When Carolin turned sixteen, the witch went out to the forest to gather supplies one day, and told Carolin that she better be there when she returns. While the witch was out, Carolin found the witch's spell book, and made up a potion. When the witch returned, Carolin was ready for her, and threw the potion onto her, and killed the witch, or so she thought. Carolin then returned to the Kingdom of Dragon Valley and claimed her rights to the throne. On her eighteenth birthday the curse took effect and she became a hybrid. 

She was a great queen and did great things until the curse fully took it's toll. She had searched for many years for a cure, but was unable to find one. Not even the royal enchanter or the wizard who saved my grandmother many years ago could find a cure.  Once the curse took it's toll on Carolin, she lost her faerie powers and her wings were striped from her. You see when a faerie turns evil, they lose their powers and their wings" Melina explains. "That explains when I first met her, she had pale vampire skin, but also had the wings of a faerie. A few years later she no longer had her wings" Shelly adds. 

"Is the witch really dead?" Tulip asks out of curiosity.  Melina continues, "Now this is where it gets interesting. Two years after my father was born, the very same witch who Carolin thought she had killed, kidnapped my father, Lestat. Luckily they found him in just a few weeks, thanks to a merchant who was traveling nearby and heard him crying. Lestat was born with the same curse Carolin has, only he was mostly faerie, and no one really knows exactly why the witch took him other than to possibly get back at Carolin for trying to kill her." Roonie gasps before saying, "Did they ever catch the evil witch who did all of this?" "Carolin's guards caught the witch just a few miles down the road from where my father was found and took her to the dungeon. The day of her execution, the witch chanted some words in old Latin and disappeared, and was never seen or heard from again. Now based on Carolin's past, I think there's a cure out there somewhere. If we can remove the curse from Carolin, then we can bring her down!" Melina explains.

The group murmurs between one another and the room grows quiet. Jax breaks the silence as he says, "I'm all for finding a cure and bringing this evil woman down with the rest of her goons! That woman and her family have caused us all enough pain and suffering!" "Here here", the rest of the group calls out. "Now you all know I can't make any fast decisions without Cade here. Once our King returns home, we can bring this matter up to him and see what his decision is. Until then we can only remain calm, and hope they find little Juliana" I explain. The group agrees to my terms and we retire to our bedchambers for the remainder of the early morning. 

The day rolls quickly on and as the evening sun sets, Katherine gathers the supplies she needs for her trip to find the wizard who threatens to take Shelly's light and joins me in the kitchen. We talk of her trip and of this evil wizards past, and I feel reassured that she will be able to put a stop to him. Soon after Shelly enters the kitchen, and notices Katherine has two sacks sitting on the counter. "Ah Shelly my dear, just the girl I was hoping to see before I go on my journey. Please come sit with me?" she asks. Shelly gives a nod and takes a seat across the table from her. "Would you like some coffee, I just brewed it a few moments ago" I offer. Shelly tells me that she would love some, and the two of them begin chatting away about Katherine's journey. 

Katherine smiles slightly as she pours a cup of coffee, "I'm going to need you to look after your father while I'm away. I really don't want to leave him in his weakened state, but I know I must find the wizard before Lestat does." "Of course I'll look after him while you're away, it's the least I can do. We have been apart for so long, and now that we're a family again, I wanna spend as much time as I can with him." Shelly tells her. Katherine smiles with thanks before explaining, "I hate to rush off, but Lestat has a head start on me, I'm sure I'll be able to find him before he does." Shelly tells her there's no need to explain, and Katherine smiles pulling Shelly into a goodbye hug before exiting the castle.

Just as Shelly and I finish our coffee, a horrible scream comes from upstairs, and we race to see what is going on. As we reach the top of the stairwell, nurses are scurrying about with hot water and clean towels. Rounding the corner to the the hallway, Roonie stands outside one of the doors that leads to a bedroom. "Roonie now what's going on?" Shelly asks. "Clover's having her baby, and believe me, she's one of the most awful patients I have ever seen! I feel so sorry for the doctor who has to deliver the baby" she tells us. "Where's Jax and Tulip?" I ask. "They're in the room with Clover. As soon as the baby arrives, Tulips gonna perform an enchantment to see who the father is" she squeaks nervously. "I'm sorry majesties, Miss Clover's needin' her privacy now" Midi says as she almost shoo's Jax and Tulip from the room.

"Well I guess now we wait" Jax says. I'm sure the other's notice his voice slightly quiver as he says it, but none of us mention it. Tulip looks quite somber indeed, and Shelly suggests that we wait in the sitting room until the baby has arrived. "Sounds like a plan" Luke agrees as we march down the hall. Drawing nearer to the room we hear Cade and Thatcher discussing plan of action for locating Juliana. "Darling, you're back" I say surprised. "Yes, Thatcher and I spoke with some of the villagers and rounded up guards to track down the baby" he tells me. "Thought we'd wait here until everything is ready. The guards are preparing the villagers for travel. It's not everyday these people see a journey such as this, and we can't afford to lose anyone because we aren't prepared" Thatcher explains. "That makes good sense" Roonie pipes up in her small voice. "You always think of everything honey" Shelly sweetly tells Thatcher before kissing his cheek. Hours pass as the group of us talk deep into the night and before long I can feel my eyelids drooping. 

Sunlight kisses my face and I squint as I open my eyes. Looking around I see my friends all passed out awkwardly on chairs and sofa's nearby. Luke gently holding on to Roonie's leg as it remains the only thing still on the couch her body hanging off it, and her face smooshed against the floor. I stifle a giggle at the sight of her and think to myself "Must've fallen asleep waiting for the news about the baby....THE BABY!" I almost shout. Midi peeks into the sitting room and smiles, "Good morning your highness. I've just come to wake you all. Miss Clover finally had her baby and got some rest, she's ready for visitors now. The poor girl was in labor for almost 12 hrs! I know she'll be wantin' to know who that little one's Poppa is so let's get these folks up and about!" 

Gathering in the room with Clover, everyone sleepily rubs their eyes and congratulates her on the baby. "Where is the baby anyhow?" Roonie meekly asks. "The maids took her to get cleaned up. I'm very weak, as I've lost alot of blood, but I'm glad to see you all" Clover manages to say. "Why Clover Vine I believe that's the nicest thing you've ever said" Bonnie says with a twist of sarcasm. But Clover just lets out a soft giggle. Soon Midi returns to the room, but this time she's carrying a small bundle, which she hands over to Clover. Everyone in the room gasps, well everyone but Jax, who immediately bursts into laughter. With an offended expression Clover demands for him to stop laughing at the baby. But, Jax is laughing so hard he can't even retort. A huge smile spreads across Tulips face, but she quickly hides it from Jax and instead answers for him. "Clover hun, Jax isn't laughing at your baby" she explains. "He isn't?" Clover replies, unconvinced. 

Soon the whole group is suppressing their snorts and chuckles, and Clover looks as though she is about to scream. "No you dense toe-head woman! He is laughing because all this time; the guilt trip, the whining...all this time you have been torturing Jax. Telling him he's the father of this baby and that he needs to be with you and take care of it, when it's clearly impossible that he could be the father!" Bonnie snaps. The small caramel colored baby gives a little cry and Clover looks from it's pouting face to Jax, trying to put the pieces of the puzzle together. "Let me help you along...Jax has a light skin tone, and you are nothing short of porcelain. There is no way that this could be Jax's child" Bonnie points out. Clover gasps in astonishment, "Oh my gosh, that's true! That must mean this is 's child!" After talking with Clover we find out that she had many, um 'gentlemen friends' but only one of those had a darker complexion; his name is Reed. Clover bursts into tears frantically, "I just didn't know! I thought it was the baby of the person you love." Roonie shakes her head and hugs Clover tightly, "Aw Clover that's just not how it works. Don't worry though we will find Reed and inform him. I'm sure it will all work out." Tulip takes a small step closer to Jax so that standing next to one another, their forearms barely graze against each other. I see Jax give a little smile, but it turns to a surprised expression as a loud snort bursts through the room. Glancing over I see Bonnie, red faced, doing her best to suppress her laughter. 

Once the commotion had died down a bit Reed was found and informed about his new daughter. We extended an invitation for him to join us at the castle to visit Clover and the baby, and he arrived promptly. After one of the maids announce Reed, I escort him to Clover's room. A large muscular fellow, he sure seemed timid and quite nervous, but that was to be expected. He had what appeared to be coarse thick dark hair, but it was neatly kept, his eyes were a bright amber and he wore a kind expression. "It's going to be alright" I tell him softly, with a smile. The corners of his mouth turn up revealing a dazzling white smile and he whispers in return, "I know...I love her." Down the chilly halls we continue, until finally we reach Clover's room, and I ease the door open.

Clover's eyes light up when we enter and she places a finger to her lips, before pointing at the baby sound asleep in the bassinet. Reed rushes to Clover's side and he tenderly speaks, "Clover are you alright? I came as soon as I could! Why didn't you tell me you were pregnant!?" Clover tells him the whole story up to that point and Reed wears a discouraged look. The two sat in silence for a few minutes before Clover decided to speak, "I'm sorry, I just have known Jax for so long. I really thought he was the one even though he doesn't reciprocate the feelings." Reed takes a deep breath and sighs, "Clover I was so hurt when you left, I didn't even understand why. I mean one day we're happy and in love, then I wake up one morning and you're gone. But, I never forgot how much I love you, even when I couldn't find you. I am willing to put the past in the past and be a great dad to our little girl and if you will let me...." He slowly eases to one knee, and pops open a little butterfly shape box with a simple diamond ring in it and then continues, "...if you'll let me, I'd like to make you my wife." Clover inhales quickly, and a smile spreads across her face before she agrees and the two of them intertwine in a heated kiss. Sensing I should give them some space I quickly sneak from the room to go find Tulip. 

 
Passing through the dining hall I see the men celebrating with Jax. "Now you might actually have a chance with Tulip!" Luke kids. Jax gives him a playful frown and Arthur raises his pint, "To second chances!" "More like fifteenth, but who's counting?" Thatcher chuckles elbowing Jax in the side. "To Jax and his endeavors!" Cade smiles and the lot of them shout, "Here, here!" before taking massive gulps from their pints. Smiling and shaking my head, I continue through the room and out the back doors, making my way to the gardens.

Under a weeping willow tree I see a very perplexed Tulip, who is pacing back and forth, and appears to be talking to herself. Gently pulling aside the long branches of the tree I speak a gentle, "Knock, Knock?" Tulip gasps, apparently startled by my sudden presence. "Oh, Nora! I didn't see you there!" she exclaims nervously. "What are you doing out here anyhow? Not the best day for a walk through the garden" I mention as I hold my hand outside the safety of the branches. Little raindrops kiss my palm and far away thunder crashes softly. "Looks like it's gonna pour anytime now" I continue, but Tulip says nothing. Taking a seat on the small stone bench under the tree, I pat the seat next to me, as to call her over. Reluctantly, she joins me, but stares at her bare feet. Glancing down at them I notice tiny paintings of tulips adorn her toenails and she wiggles her toes into the earth. "Still an earth faerie at heart even though she's royalty" I think to myself. 

"All this stuff with Jax is bothering you, eh?" I cautiously ask. She nods, but remains silent. We sit a few moments watching the winds carrying the thundering clouds south, and lightening flashes across the sky as the rain begins to fall. "When I was little Jax and I spent everyday together. He taught me to swim and we would go fishing often, they were some of my favorite times. When we were 12 he found a lightening flower...that was a great day" Tulip says reminiscently. "That sounds lovely, what is a lightening flower?" I ask her curiously. "It's a very rare flower that grows where a bolt of lightening has struck the ground. They are very rare you see, and are almost blinding with their brilliant blue-white color. He gave it to me, and told me that my beauty surpassed its extravagance, and then he kissed me. I have never felt about anyone the way that I feel about Jax..." she explains. Giving her a soft smile I reply, "Not even Alex? You were prepared to move away from this place forever with him...surely that meant something?" Tulip closes her eyes, and a glistening tear rolls slowly down her porcelain cheek. "I was angry...I never meant it. I just wanted to run away and be rid of all these feelings. I just..." Tulip trails off hiding her face in her palms. 

Before I even have time to reply or act I notice a rain soaked Jax standing a few feet behind us, his eyes glossy with the tears he's clearly holding back. Carefully rising from my seat, I smile and quietly wave him over as I slip out of sight next to a nearby tree. He approaches silently and takes a seat next to Tulip. As she continues to softly sob into her hands, Jax looks at her with an apologetic expression. He places his arms around her in a comforting embrace, and closes his eyes, but says nothing. "Oh Nora, I just don't know if he feels the same way, if I'm the one he truly wants..." Tulip bursts out sitting back quickly. Her hands fall from her face and she wears a look of shock as she now see's Jax before her. He wipes a tear from her face with his thumb, and tucks a lock of hair behind her ear. His eyes tinged with red from the stinging tears that have escaped. The two stare into each others eyes for a few moments, while Jax struggles to keep the tears from emerging. Finally breaking the silence he says in a wavering voice, "...it has always been you!" Clearly desperate to kiss her, he holds back, probably to show her that he has learned self control, but she smiles and pulls him into a passionate kiss. Their wings glow brightly while the two lovers share this moment, and the rain subsides as the sun begins to peak through the clouds. "I know I have been a fool Tulip. I know that I can never undo the hurt I have caused you, and for that I deeply apologize. Every time I felt our relationship becoming more serious, I got scared. But, since that day with the trolls, there is one thing I now know, and that is that I'm not afraid anymore. I'm ready for a committed, serious relationship with only you. I only hope that it's not too late..." "I want to believe you Jax, truly I do, but now I am the one who is afraid" Tulip tells him quietly. Her words seem to be like shards of glass as she speaks them, for she looks pained to even say them.

Jax suddenly stands with a burst of energy and tells her, "I will prove it to you, anything my love. Anything! I would saw my own arm off to proof it to you!" She gasps and gives a light chuckle assuming he jests, "Now you're just being silly! You wouldn't dare!" But Jax remains serious and from his pocket draws a flip knife. His gaze remains on Tulip as he pops open the knife and places it against his forearm just above his elbow. Before either Tulip or I have time to react, Jax slides the cool blade into his skin and blood trickles down his arm. "Jax don't!" Tulip screams jumping up from her seat. "W-what are you doing!?" she stammers taking a handkerchief from her pocket and cleaning his arm. The cut isn't very deep and has only broken the skin, but it's enough to convince Tulip and she takes the flip knife from his hand. "You really mean it don't you?..." she whispers as she gazes into his eyes eagerly. "With all my heart my sweet" he whispers back, and it's apparent that his words ring true. "This is it Jax, I mean it. If you hurt me again..." she huffs before trailing off. "I promise you I won't" he tells her before pressing his lips against hers.

Unable to help myself I let out a happy sigh and it startles me, causing my foot to crunch down on a twig. Tulip and Jax break out of their kiss and they catch my eye. "I was wondering where you ran off to!" Tulip exclaims. Taking a few steps toward them I reply, "Yes, well it seems like it's a good thing I did. Could I be mistaken?" Jax looks at Tulip beaming, "I would certainly say it was a wonderful thing!" Tulip glances back at Jax and her face flushes a bright pink as she nods happily. "This is wonderful news! You two back together again, it's just fantastic!" I happily tell them. "Yea but look what he did to his arm!" Tulip frowns, gently holding up his arm. "Well, I may or may not have been eavesdropping a bit...I saw what happened. Jax! I know you wanted to show her you are serious but my goodness man, don't torture yourself!" I scold. "It's nothing less than what I have felt without you in my life" he says lovingly to Tulip. "What a suck up" I kid. Tulip giggles a bit but replies, "Hey it was sweet!" Jax gives a laugh and puts his arm around Tulips waist and asks, "Shall we celebrate this grand news?" Clapping my hands together excitedly I exclaim, "Oh gosh! I can't wait for the others to find out! C'mon Tulip, do you want to?" Tulip seems to glow her sunny yellow color and shouts in agreement, "YES!"