Daren and Alicia follow Shrukin through a maze of halls within the Dragonblood Palace to find themselves transported to another place. Here, they gain powerful weapons before returning home to discover a dangerous ally or enemy. The journey reaches its end, the battle begins.
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This is NOT professionally recorded and is not intended to act like it is. This is a free audio recording of “The Ansville Gatehouse” short story. If you want to help support my projects and perhaps one day be able to make this professional, you can help by going to https://andrewnusz.com and clicking on the “Support Me” button. My hope is that you will enjoy this enough to encourage the writing and future publication of my writings.
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Daren and Alicia followed Shrukin through a labyrinth of shadowy corridors and grand halls. Each passage was adorned with towering statues set into intricately carved walls and soaring arched ceilings. The halls themselves had been hewn from the mountain’s rock, then polished to a gleaming marble finish. The entire place was a testament to masterful craftsmanship-no wall was left plain; every surface was etched with patterns and scenes of timeless wonder. The walk was breathtaking.
At last, Shrukin turned down a final hallway, its floor covered in a rich red carpet that ended at a pair of imposing double doors. The doors, crafted from oak, were carved with images of trees and a massive, engraved dragon. A shimmering blue aura of magic surrounded the doorway, humming with the energy of a protective spell.
Shrukin approached and raised his hand.
There was a distinct clang as the lock disengaged and the magical barrier faded.
He paused, then pushed the doors open.
Daren entered first, with Alicia close behind. They were greeted by glowing orange orbs of light that illuminated a circular chamber. Statues of kings, each gripping a sword, stood in a ring, their gazes fixed upon the center, where a raised dais was carpeted with the engraved symbol of Extal.
“Step onto the symbol,” Shrukin instructed.
They moved to the center of the dais. Instantly, a swirl of wind and blue magic swept over them, just as it had before.
When the blue mist cleared, they found themselves at the end of a long hallway lined with more ornate statues. Here, the atmosphere was subdued, cloaked in a haunting stillness.
They continued down the hall. Only when they crossed the first intersecting corridor did they realize the source of the strange feeling.
At the end of the intersecting halls rested a large marble slab, atop which lay the statue of a royal king.
They were inside a catacomb of burial tombs.
Daren gazed in awe as a memory surfaced. He remembered being part of a solemn procession, watching as his grandfather’s casket was carried into a grand, temple-like structure. But this structure was on an island far from the Whiteface Mountains-Dragonblood’s realm. This was the Isle of Kings, at the edge of the known world, beyond Eden. He recalled his father mentioning it, even as other memories surfaced-not his own, but those of ancestors. This was where the royal family of Dragonblood were brought upon death, to rest in a labyrinth of halls that served as their final resting place.
Shrukin led them through several more chambers of white stone. After another turn, they reached the end of a hallway supported by pillars and an arched doorway. Above the entrance, a carving of a book with an engraved sword stood out. Inscribed above were the words, “Chamber of the Kings.” This door, too, was protected by a blue magical barrier, but it vanished at Shrukin’s touch.
Turning to Daren and Alicia, Shrukin said, “For a thousand years, Dragonblood was entrusted with the guardianship of these lands. Along with that duty came weapons to fight the dark forces that threatened peace.” He pushed the door open, revealing halls and stairs leading to what appeared to be a secret library.
As Daren stepped through, a surge of immense power nearly brought him to his knees. He saw Alicia experience the same sensation. When it subsided, they stared in awe at the vast labyrinth of shelves lined with books and chests. Stairs ascended and descended to various levels. Along the walls, carved pillars supported large, ornate gargoyle statues whose eyes glowed with fire, as if they might spring to life at any moment.
They followed Shrukin down a flight of stairs until they reached the bottom. To one side, a wide open doorway beckoned. Inside, they paused at the threshold, taking in the sight.
The chamber was circular, with pillars spaced throughout. What drew the eye, however, were the alcoves cut into the walls. Each was illuminated by a white light that shone down on a particular artifact displayed on a cushion. Various weapons, swords, whips, axes, each was accompanied by a plaque describing its history.
“These are the weapons bestowed upon each King during their reign,” Shrukin said solemnly. “They are not to be used lightly. Each is a reminder that rule comes with great responsibility.”
He studied the alcoves for a long moment, as if weighing a decision. At last, he nodded to himself and stepped forward, withdrawing a weapon. Turning to Daren, he presented a long chain whip with a studded, diamond-like star at its end. An inscription in strange, archaic lettering was engraved on the handle.
“I…” Daren hesitated. “I’m only skilled with a gun. I’d probably injure myself the moment I tried to use that!”
Shrukin shook his head. “Each of these weapons is unique-they are bound to their wielder. When a King dies, his weapon is placed here for safekeeping, awaiting the day a worthy successor claims it. Once chosen, the weapon binds itself to its new owner for life.” He pointed to Daren’s head. “Have you received your family’s memories yet? Your parents and I debated for a long time whether you should. After what befell our people, we had no choice but to take the risk.”
Daren blinked, his gaze dropping. “I… yes.” He looked away, unwilling to recall the face of his mother speaking to him.
“The moment you touch this whip,” Shrukin continued, “you’ll experience what you did before with your people’s memories. This time, you’ll also connect to the whip’s magic. Its abilities will become yours instantly. But don’t be overconfident-knowing is one thing; using it skillfully is another.”
Daren nodded and slowly reached out, taking the whip. It felt cold and heavy, but not uncomfortable.
Shrukin turned back to the alcoves, glancing at Alicia several times. At last, he smiled and retrieved an item. He presented a magnificent sword, its blade etched with writing in the ancient tongue of Latra-a language few remembered.
Alicia wrapped her fingers around the hilt. As she lifted it, she immediately sensed its perfect balance. The weight matched that of her old blade, which she had lost in the cavern waters beneath Windsail City. She swung the sword a few times, listening to its melodious swish as it cut through the air. She closed her eyes, filled with a strange sensation-she somehow knew its name.
“Taurnil…” she murmured, opening her eyes in confusion to look at Shrukin.
Shrukin nodded gently. “Taurnil was forged in the mountains of Twilight Forest by the elven lords when Dragonblood was first established. It is the companion to Eskaver’s sword-the blade kept in the Sword Hall of the palace.”
“What do you mean, a companion sword?” Daren asked, unsure if he recognized the name.
“When Eskaver was first called to unite the lands during the Chaos Wars of the Forgotten Age,” Shrukin recalled, closing his eyes, “he fell in love with one of Elrosa’s daughters. They threatened to run away, as Elwyn-a fairy who had forsaken her place among the fae to be bound by magic to a dragon lord-had done before. That story was well known among the elves, who saw it as a tale of love. But Elrosa feared for her people. In the end, she compromised, ordering a sword of power to be forged with the help of the dragon lords. If her daughter Elwin followed Eskaver, she would be in grave danger, as his life was marked by prophecy and war. Taurnil was crafted to grant Elwyn immense power, so she could stand with Eskaver against the dark hordes of Faelivrin’s creations.”
Shrukin sighed, watching as Alicia gave the sword a few more swings, nodding in appreciation.
“What happened to her?” Alicia asked, curiosity in her voice.
Shrukin shook his head slowly. “They lived and fought through the dark war of Chaos until its bitter end.” His gaze grew distant. “Faelivrin’s wrath against the elves was so great that he secretly enslaved some of them, using dark enchantments to transform them into shadowy versions of themselves. These became the fabled, though now nearly forgotten, Nithi. One of the Nithi was tasked with hunting down Eskaver during the Battle of Hawthorn in southern Eden. The power the Nithi wielded was immense, and their terrifying massacres became legend. Elwin stood beside Eskaver, defending a city, when an arrow pierced her heart.”
Alicia lowered her head, as if the sword she now carried bore a legacy of sorrow. “So even though she was given a sword of power, she still died in the end.”
Shrukin regarded her with a curious expression. “Did you think a magical sword would guarantee victory?” He shook his head. “A sword, even one imbued with magic, is still just a sword. It holds no promise of triumph.” He glanced at the whip in Daren’s hand and added, “Don’t rely too heavily on magical weapons. They don’t win wars. What matters is how you use them and the choices you make. This”-he tapped his temple-“is what truly wins wars.”
Daren slowly let out the whip’s chain, feeling its weight in his hand. He frowned, uncertain. So far, the connection Shrukin had described hadn’t manifested; he still had no idea how to wield such a weapon. He gripped the handle and let the chain dangle before him.
He was about to ask a question when a sudden pain shot through his hand, sharp as a cluster of bee stings. He nearly dropped the whip as a whirlwind of sensations overwhelmed him, just as when he had seen his mother’s face in memory. Now, other memories surfaced-faces he didn’t recognize, yet somehow knew were his ancestors. Images of men and women swirled in his mind as each previous bearer of the whip shared fragments of their lives with him. Tactics and techniques for wielding the weapon became his own, even as unfamiliar events and eras flooded his thoughts.
Among them, one figure began to stand out, the rest fading into the background. A name and a face emerged: Ardil. He had spent his childhood on Legend Island, a place between Eden and Scaron, home to the renowned World Library. Born to a merchant family, Ardil had pursued knowledge, studying under the library’s professors in many disciplines. Yet he had not found his true calling, despite his father’s hope that he would inherit the family business.
One day, while daydreaming in a meadow, he was struck by a vision. An angel appeared, speaking in ominous tones and showing him a glimpse of the future, a call to seek out Dragonblood’s people and warn them that Scaron’s forces were nearing Adrylin, a place shrouded in secrecy. When Ardil asked why he had been chosen, the angel replied, “Because, Ardil, son of Rashin, your blood is of Dragonblood’s line. Tell them Elyon has sent you. Make haste to Scaron and protect the crystals.”
Daren watched, transfixed, as Ardil’s journey unfolded. What began as a mission of warning grew into a tale of heroism. Ardil overcame great challenges and earned renown among his peers. When Adrylin was finally secured and its magical barrier restored, the King of Dragonblood summoned Ardil to the great hall in the Midlands of the Whiteface Mountains. There, he was knighted and granted lands. The King also established the House of Ardil Cole, decreeing that its members would forever serve as the monarch’s right hand. The Dragon Star whip was entrusted to the Coles, its magic specifically designed to combat creatures infused with dark magic.
Daren gasped, blinking hard as the flood of memories subsided. It was less painful than before, but still overwhelming. He blinked several times, feeling a strange new bond forming between himself and the Dragon Star whip, a connection to a family legacy he was only beginning to understand.
In that moment, he straightened, his grip on the whip tightening. Exhaling slowly, he extended his arm and with a sharp flick of his wrist, cracked the whip. The chain flew outward, the star at its tip ringing against the stone. He felt exhilarated-a sudden surge of wonder and power at his fingertips. He turned to Shrukin, his eyes alight with excitement.
Shrukin nodded, understanding without a word. He turned toward the door, beckoning them to follow. As they exited back into the great hall, the blue magical ward shimmered back into place.
As they walked through the long, shadowed halls of the tombs, Shrukin said, “There is one last place I must show you before I return you home.”
They followed Shrukin back to the portal, which returned them to the plateau with its intricate architecture. From there, Shrukin led them into the heart of Dragonblood’s mountain palace.
Each hallway felt as ancient as the mountain itself. Carvings along the walls depicted a forgotten age; tapestries and murals adorned the ceilings and walls. The atmosphere was reverent, as if they had entered a sacred temple. Marble pillars lined the corridors, and at intervals, open domed chambers stretched into darkness.
After another turn, they entered a hallway lined with tapestries showing dragons mingling with men and women. At the end stood a wide door with golden fringes. On one door, inscribed in gold script, was a quotation:
“In reading great literature I become a thousand men and yet remain myself. Like the night sky in the Greek poem, I see with a myriad eyes, but it is still I who see. Here, as in worship, in love, in moral action, and in knowing, I transcend myself; and am never more myself than when I do. - C.S. Lewis”
On the opposite door, similarly inscribed, was another quote:
“Those who erase the memory of time have made themselves the enemy of time. For time itself is the gatekeeper of eternity. To forget our heritage is to erase who we are and thus erase our meaning and destiny. Time is our ever-constant reminder to treasure our lives, our past, the history of mankind. To forget it, whether it be good or bad, is to take away part of humanity and thereby a lesson learned. Time has condemned the eraser to be the enemy of humanity. - Eskaver Sherwin”
Both Daren and Alicia paused to read the inscriptions, absorbing their meaning. For Alicia, the words struck a chord. She remembered her time hiding in Windsail City, when the World’s Library was being systematically purged of its past. She feared what that might mean. But for now, her attention was fixed on the doors. She looked at Shrukin as he stepped forward and slowly opened them.
As they entered, Alicia's breath caught in her throat. She gazed in awe at the vast lobby: staircases spiraled into darkness, and shelves upon shelves lined multiple floors.
Daren took it all in, his eyes dropping to the marble floor where he instantly recognized what he would find-the enormous image of a dragon, carved just as he had seen in countless dreams. This was the Dragonblood Library. He turned, half-walking, half-running, toward it.
“Daren!” Alicia called, hurrying after him. “Where are you going?”
“I know where we are!” he replied, his voice brimming with excitement. It was one more confirmation that his dreams were real.
Crossing through a large oval archway, Daren paused before a massive oak door, its center adorned with a giant diamond crest and a sword. He hesitated, both knowing and uncertain if he should open it.
Shrukin and Alicia caught up and stopped behind him. Shrukin spoke quietly, “This is our last stop. You know where you are, Daren.”
Slowly, Daren opened the door, revealing a dark chamber from which a cold draft flowed. He stepped inside, advancing about five feet into the blackness.
He heard it before he saw it-the rush of wind sweeping through the vast chamber. Moments later, fire erupted high into the air from five great hearths along the far wall, casting a soft glow into the center of the room. In the shifting shadows, he saw an enormous mural carved from white stone above the mantels: a dragon and humans, just as in his dreams. Daren turned his gaze to the center of the room.
There was the pool, with its raised dais where once the flaming sword had stood, now gone. The pool itself shimmered with an eerie blue light.
Shrukin stepped forward, and they followed him to the pool’s edge. There, he stopped and turned to them. “Before you leave this realm, I wish to bless you both with a prayer.” He knelt before the pool, and Daren and Alicia knelt beside him. Shrukin began a simple prayer, invoking Elyon’s protection. He paused to say more when the water before them began to stir. Looking up, he gasped and quickly backed away.
On the dais, where the sword had appeared in Daren's dreams, stood a figure in white robes, radiant with pure light. In his hand was a sword that glowed just as brilliantly. His eyes, filled with ancient wisdom, looked first at Daren, then at Alicia, both of whom stood wide-eyed in awe.
“Rise, my brother and sister,” the figure said, gesturing with his hand. “I am a messenger, sent to aid you in your quest.”
Slowly, Daren and Alicia rose to their feet, uncertain and amazed.
“Who...who are you?” Daren whispered, wonder in his voice.
The figure tilted his head slightly. “As I said, I am a messenger of Elyon.” He focused on Daren. “Long has the line of Cole been loyal to Elyon’s call.” Extending his hand, he said, “Give me your whip.”
Daren unhooked the whip from his belt and handed it over. He watched as the figure grasped it; in seconds, blue magic flared from the chains, engulfing the entire length.
“The weapons of Dragonblood are given to defend against the darkness,” the figure said, returning the now glowing whip. “The touch of holy flame will purge the taint of evil.” He then turned to Alicia, who handed him her sword, her eyes wide with wonder.
At his touch, the sword blazed with blue fire. He returned it to Alicia, who stared at the hilt in astonishment. “The sword of Taurnil has been in the Cole family for generations, always wielded in defense of those who cannot defend themselves.” His gaze softened as he looked at Alicia. “Your past does not define you, sister. As you wield this sword, remember the life you have gained and the cause you now serve. Your purpose and destiny are filled with light. Walk in the knowledge and love you have found.”
They stared at the figure, speechless, and in the blink of an eye, he vanished. The chamber dimmed, shadows reclaiming the space.
“In the days of kings and warriors, those granted these weapons would come to the Sword Hall to reignite the flame within,” Shrukin said softly. “When the bearer died, the flame would die as well, and the weapon’s true potential would be lost until a new bearer was chosen.” He looked at Daren and Alicia with a stern expression. “These are now weapons of guardians, a role you both inherit until your dying day. Wield them according to the code Dragonblood is sworn to, or risk losing them as Dragonblood lost Eskaver's sword.”
Seeing their confusion, Shrukin continued, “No weapon forged for Dragonblood was made lightly. These weapons possess immense power, but with that comes great responsibility. They will know if they are used outside the code, and if you break it, they will abandon you.”
Daren and Alicia nodded in understanding.
With a final nod, Shrukin closed his eyes. “We’ve lingered long enough.” He raised his hands and clapped, and everything went black.
---
They stepped through the portal between two ancient trees, and Alicia immediately froze. Beside her, Daren looked out across the Sanctuary and saw an unusual airship tethered to the ground with sandbags and ropes. The ship was unlike anything he had ever seen. Alicia’s rigid stance told him all he needed to know. “Who’s here with us?”
Alicia didn’t answer right away. Instead, she scanned the ground for signs. As she did, she whispered, “Do you see the emblem on the side of the ship?”
Daren followed her gaze. A metal oval plate was affixed to the hull, bearing the image of a white tree. Above it, a crescent moon and star gleamed.
“It’s the emblem of the Twilight Forest. They’re fae. They’ve crossed into this in-between realm.”
“Friend or foe?”
Alicia glanced at him, her brow furrowed. “How should I know?”
Daren pursed his lips, sighing, and glanced down at the whip, now glowing with blue magic. He gripped the handle and surveyed the area.
Presently, sunlight glinted off metal as a group emerged from beneath the trees opposite the airship.
Leading the procession was a woman of striking grace and presence. She wore a richly embroidered purple outfit, a long black cloak billowing behind her, and a miniature red dragon circled above her head. From slits in her garments, black, silk-like wings unfurled. Behind her, a massive gray wolf padded silently, its enormous paws treading softly. The wolf shook its coat, baring razor-sharp teeth and fixing its glowing yellow eyes on Daren and Alicia. The group paused at the forest’s edge, their eyes locked on the newcomers. After a brief moment, they continued forward.
Daren stared openly, feeling a tingle inside as he sensed the powerful magic radiating from the approaching figures.
Alicia’s voice was low and cautious. “It’s Queen Elrosa.”
Even as she spoke, the trees parted once more and twenty soldiers appeared, gliding silently across the grass. Each wore green armor engraved with leaf patterns, their baldrics adorned with sparkling gems and matching swords. Ten of them moved with slightly less grace, their eyes scanning the surroundings, one hand gripping a bow, the other hovering near a quiver of arrows.
Alicia whispered, “Don’t say anything. Let me do the talking.”
Daren nodded, wide eyed and silent, absorbing every detail like a child. Memories from his childhood flickered through his mind, hazy and disjointed, but some moments clear. The alliance between Dragonblood and the Twilight Forest realm had never been built on trust, only necessity. Queen Elrosa had ruled that land for over eight centuries, and her relationship with his people was strained by the memory of Eskaver’s bond with her late daughter.
Queen Elrosa strode purposefully across the lawn to stand near her airship, halting twenty feet from Daren and Alicia. Her soldiers formed a half-circle around her.
For a long moment, silence hung in the air. The queen’s gaze locked on Alicia, her eyes narrowing as if she were weighing a troubling decision.
Daren exhaled deeply, feeling the tension rise. He stepped forward, noticing soldiers’ fingers brush their arrow tips.
Ignoring Alicia’s warning, he said, “Welcome.” He silently cursed his lack of a better greeting. “I’m Daren Cole.” He nodded toward Alicia. “This is Alicia Alcorin.”
Queen Elrosa’s eyes twitched. “So you hide your true name, human girl?” Her expression was unreadable as she studied Alicia.
Alicia lowered her eyes briefly, feeling Daren squeeze her hand for reassurance. She straightened and met the queen’s gaze. “I’m not hiding from anything.”
The queen’s eyes narrowed in a hard glare. “You don’t belong here, or anywhere one can walk freely.” One of her soldiers stepped forward, hand on sword hilt.
Daren moved protectively in front of Alicia, meeting the queen’s eyes. “We’re all friends here, I hope. But we’re in a hurry-trying to save the world, after all.”
The queen’s glare shifted to him. “Who are you, human? I sense deep magic, yet you are human as well.” Her eyes fell to the burning whip at his side, and she cocked her head, uncertain. After a pause, she added, “Where is Thomas?”
Daren remembered Shrukin mentioning his brother’s name. “Are you referring to the Drugi-ward?”
The queen nodded slightly.
He closed his eyes for a moment, then took Alicia’s hand. “He’s no longer with us.”
The queen’s eyes grew more expressive. “No more?”
Alicia whispered, “He told us we were to continue his legacy… and walked into the yard… and…”
“He died,” Daren finished softly.
A hushed whisper swept through the soldiers. At a curt nod from their queen, they fell silent. She fixed Alicia with a stern gaze. “He said you were to take up where he left off?” Her tone made it clear she didn’t believe them.
Daren’s insides twisted. He could feel the tension between Alicia and the queen. In a voice louder than intended, he snapped, “She is not her father! Leave her alone!” Anger surged through him, fueled by memories of Alicia’s painful past. His eyes locked on the queen, and something within him shifted. The soldiers seemed to sense it too. They backed away, drawing swords and leveling arrows at him.
The queen’s eyes hardened. “There is a blood debt at the hands of the Garlands… at your hands,” she said, clenching her fists at Alicia.
At his side, Daren’s whip glowed brighter, a low hum echoing in his head. Behind the queen, the soldiers raised their bows, a surge of energy rippling through their ranks and making his hair stand on end. He felt as if he might be struck down at any moment. He considered using the whip, but knew it would be suicide; few could stand against the fae, let alone their queen. They were born of magic and wielded it with terrifying power.
Suddenly, a spark of blue-white light erupted with a soft thunderous crack. A swirl of blue smoke appeared, and Shrukin stepped out, striding purposefully into their midst. In his hand, a gnarled white staff glowed with power. In a commanding voice, he shouted, “Enough!” He slammed the staff down, sending a tremor through everyone present.
Daren’s whip went dark, and he felt a sudden emptiness, as if something vital had been extinguished.
The soldiers recoiled, eyes wide with shock, their connection to magic seemingly severed or blocked by a powerful barrier.
The queen’s eyes widened in alarm at Shrukin’s arrival. She glared at him. “How dare you cast a warding spell to sever our magic!” she hissed. “Release it at once!”
“Call off your guard, Elrosa!” Shrukin barked. “The magic you sense is what I have given these humans. I suspect you’re here because you felt the same disturbance I did.” He followed her gaze to Alicia, then returned his sharp eyes to the queen, staff crackling with energy. “Restrain your soldiers, Elrosa. She is under my protection and has been chosen. Will you break your oaths?” He turned to Alicia. “Draw your sword, Alicia.”
Alicia hesitated, feeling every eye on her. Moments before, they had been ready to kill her. Slowly, she drew Taurnil from its scabbard. Blue flames danced along the blade’s edge.
The queen’s eyes narrowed to slits, anger etched on her face. For several seconds, she clenched her fists, then, with a slight bow, raised her hand.
The soldiers behind her reluctantly lowered their weapons.
In a subdued voice, she asked, “What has happened here? There is great unrest among the fae.”
“My brother is dead,” Shrukin said, his voice harsher than intended. Softer, he added, “With the fall of Dragonblood, the hold he had on the gates died as well. His life was bound to his role as Drugi-ward.”
The queen’s eyes fell, her regal composure fading. “Then the great night has fallen upon us.”
“Not yet,” Shrukin replied, gesturing to Daren and Alicia. “Providence has led these two to my brother and me. There is still hope.”
The queen’s gaze lingered on Alicia, her anger now tempered by uncertainty. “Blood of Garlands and Dragonblood,” she murmured, closing her eyes as if she already knew the outcome.
“Do not yield to doubt, my lady,” Shrukin said, moving to the center of the group. Turning to all present, he continued, “We now hold the keys to Ansville, where the way was once barred. Both Garlands and Dragonblood may enter freely. We must trust that providence has opened the way.”
Alicia dared to speak. “And then? How does one close the gate?”
“Destroy it,” the queen answered firmly, refusing to meet Alicia’s eyes. “The magic flowing through Ansville is a primary gateway to many worlds. Destroy the main gate, and Neverworld’s entrance will be sealed.” She fixed her gaze on Alicia. “You know who is holding the gate open.”
Alicia lowered her head.
“Either follow your father’s tainted path or destroy your family’s legacy. What will you choose, Garland?”
Alicia’s hands clenched, her eyes turning icy. “He won’t control me anymore.” Tears welled up as the pain of all she had lost overwhelmed her.
Daren’s gaze hardened. “You have no idea what she’s endured at the hands of her so-called family,” he said, the word ‘family’ heavy with meaning. He glared at the queen. “Sometimes, family is a greater prison than death itself. I will stand beside her as she banishes the evil from her life.” He wrapped his arms around Alicia, and she leaned into him.
Queen Elrosa sighed deeply. “Perhaps I have judged too quickly.” She studied the two humans for a moment. “Years of betrayal have made me callous to humanity’s capacity for love.” She turned to two soldiers at her side. After a long pause and a slight nod, she said, “Tillo and Iltis will accompany you on your quest. They are my finest soldiers.”
Both Tillo and Iltis bowed slightly, their appearances so similar they could easily be mistaken for brothers.
The queen gestured toward the airship, which upon closer inspection looked nothing like any earthen vessel. There were no propellers or steam pipes-how it floated was a complete mystery to Daren.
“As we arrived by airship, we’ll take you to Ansville. From there”-she shrugged-“the future is in your hands. I cannot go myself. Even for my people, we cannot remain there long; its poison drains us.”
Daren frowned. “What about Tillo and Iltis?”
The queen replied, “Since this is a matter of magic and balance, the fae have a vested interest. We must be present as you cross partially into our realm. They will guide you as best they can, but ultimately, since Ansville was created by Garland and Dragonblood hands, only the two of you can stop Neverworld’s spread. If you do not, the first gate seal to Exodus will be breached and we will all be vulnerable. It is in everyone’s interest that you succeed.”
Shrukin folded his hands with a satisfied expression. “I bid you a good journey, then.” He nodded, turned, and vanished in a swirl of blue-white light.
The queen turned toward the airship and walked to where a ramp was laid out. The soldiers lined up behind her and followed her up the ramp. At the halfway point, she turned to face Daren and Alicia at the end of the line. “Perhaps this will be the first of many partnerships.”
Daren and Alicia ascended the ramp last.
At first glance, the airship’s design wasn’t so different from Earth’s ships, but that was only the outer shell. Daren still had no idea what powered it. If the evil of Sinvin was to be believed, it certainly wasn’t that. But if not, then what?
With a slight jolt, the ship began to rise.
He heard the soft sound of gears turning as wings unfolded outside. A large dome covered the ship, forming several upper levels where the main bridge likely was. This, then, wasn’t even the upper deck. Daren shook his head, more confused than ever.
“Come along, confused husband of mine,” Alicia whispered, leading him toward a beckoning fairy. When they drew near, the winged fairy man said, “I will show you to your quarters.”
As they were led down the hallways deeper into the ship, Daren marveled at the intricate designs and patterns. He could feel the hum of gears below, but the engineering was flawless, concealing all pipes and mechanisms and leaving everything looking pristine.
Their quarters were spacious and inviting, complete with a washing sink and shower. The bed was of the finest quality, a canopy carved with intricate tree motifs. Every detail of the room reflected careful craftsmanship.
At the door, the fairy man said, “You are guests on this ship, so feel free to explore at your leisure. We won’t arrive at our destination for a few days. Until then, make this your home.” With a polite nod, he closed the door, leaving them alone.
Alicia immediately headed for the closet and, upon opening it, discovered decorative clothing fit for royalty. She laughed to see that the sizing suited her perfectly.
In short order, she changed into a deep purple gown adorned with golden leaf patterns, twirling for Daren’s inspection. He smiled.
“You’re gorgeous,” he said, kissing her softly. She beamed.
For the rest of the day, they explored the wonders of the fairy airship and dined in a lavish hall with other fairies, who were eager to learn about humans. Many had never visited Earth before, making Daren and Alicia’s presence a novelty. Unlike the queen, the fairies seemed free of prejudice, excitedly asking endless questions about Earth and its people.
With great fanfare, harps and other instruments were brought out, and music filled the hall. Tales of ancient times were sung and danced to. As the songs shifted to ballads, the hall quieted and stories were told against a backdrop of gentle melodies.
For several hours, Daren and Alicia found themselves the center of attention. But by the third hour, as the sun set and the moon rose, fatigue set in. With Alicia at his side, Daren bid the fairies good night and returned to their quarters.
---
From the mirror on the dresser, Alicia saw Daren watching her as she combed out her hair. It had only been a day since their marriage. She hesitated, staring at herself for a long moment before lowering the comb to the dresser.
“What are you thinking, Alicia?” Daren asked, concern growing on his face. He could sense her nervousness.
She shook her head slowly. “We only have a few days until we reach Ansville.” She sighed. “I’m not sure if I’m ready. I’ve been running for so many years, and now…now I’m running to face my father.”
Daren got up from the bed and wrapped his arms around her waist. “You’re a strong woman who’s endured so much. You can and will get through this, too.”
She leaned into his embrace, her eyes meeting his in the mirror, sensing that he understood her thoughts through their connection.
He shook his head gently and whispered, “We don’t have to-”
But she interrupted, shaking her head in return. “I won’t let my past define me…or what I feel.” She slowly let her robe slide off, her naked body reflected in the mirror. She took a trembling breath as memories whispered through her mind. “I don’t want to wake up tomorrow without…without knowing you.” She turned in Daren’s arms, searching his eyes. “I want you, Daren-all of you-even if I’m terrified of the memories.” She kissed him softly, and he guided her gently to the bed.
---
Daren woke to the soft clanging of a bell.
Alicia rolled over, hearing the same sound. She grumbled and snuggled closer, wrapping her arms around Daren’s chest. For the last few days and nights, they had spent nearly all their time together, rarely leaving their room. That first night of making love since their time in the woods had been slow and painful, the memories difficult. Yet she had released years of pent-up hurt and anguish with Daren holding her. The next time was easier; his gentle touch and understanding soothed her heart as they shared themselves more deeply. She felt him in every way, their connection growing stronger, and she reveled in their bond. Each morning, she wanted nothing more than to stay in his arms, never letting go. Her heart ached for the connection, and he gave it freely. For three days, she felt as if they were one, living for his love and giving herself to him without reservation. The freedom was overwhelming, sometimes bringing her to tears. She had always hid herself in clothing but for these last few days, she forced herself to walk naked, knowing Daren's eyes were always on her. She wanted his eyes on her. She wanted to know he wanted her.
Now, as the early morning sun danced through the window, she felt Daren’s hand brush across her bare skin, his head resting on her breast as if she were his personal pillow. He stretched, made a face that said, “I don’t want to move,” then rolled to the edge of the bed. Stretching again, he got up. Alicia watched with a crooked smile at his beautifully carved body as he strode naked to the window.
Looking out, Daren saw a gray mist. All around were treetops and a single overgrown road curving into a denser part of the forest. The airship was stationary-they had arrived. Looking back, Daren said, “I think we’re here.”
Alicia got up and joined him at the window with a sigh. She looked out and said, “So it seems. It’s gloomy and forlorn.”
They turned to the dresser, finding a strange set of clothes hanging on racks that hadn’t been there the night before.
Both sets were thick and reinforced with heavy material-not metal, but clearly not ordinary cloth. With numerous pockets and baldrics, the torso was protected by a plated fabric. Colored in the bright hues typical of fairy design, the outfits stood out.
Daren helped Alicia into her own set: blue uniform pants, a white tunic, and a black inner coat. The overcoat was white, bearing the crest of House Cole, dragon claws holding the wheel of Extal with a blue, magic-infused cross. Once dressed, she found the outfit easy to move in and nodded in approval before helping Daren with his.
His colors were green, red, and brown, with a white tunic underneath. The overcoat was a deep burgundy with a green and black inner coat. The crest of Cole was etched on his back, matching Alicia’s. He still couldn’t determine what the material was. The baldric and fasteners attached easily to his whip. Once the boots were fastened, they stood and looked at each other.
Daren was the first to speak, excitement in his eyes. “Next time we go to bed, I want you wearing that outfit.”
Alicia glanced down and rolled her eyes. “You just like how it lifts my breasts.” She gave him a mock heavenly look. “Men.” She let her fingers trail down his sides, giving him an approving glance. “You look…” She paused, then grinned mischievously. “You look delicious. I could eat you up.”
Daren raised an eyebrow and smirked. “You already did.”
Alicia shot him a devilish grin. “Let’s go. I think they’re waiting for us.”
They left their room and walked down the hall.
Stepping onto the deck, they found a crowd of fairy men and women gazing over the railing at the scene below. In the center stood Queen Elrosa, regal as ever.
Looking down, they saw the outskirts of a town.
High on a hill above the town loomed a towering mansion, dark and foreboding. Clouds swirled above it, tinged with a reddish hue. Towering structures jutted from the mansion’s ends, and a narrow road led up to enormous doors.
The queen stepped back from the railing and spoke softly, “This is as far as I can take you. The rest of the journey is on foot.” She turned to Tillo and Iltis, who stood ready in their own armor, gazing at Ansville with determination. “It is time.”
The two elven soldiers, as Daren and Alicia had learned a day earlier, stepped forward and bowed. The relationship between elves and fairies was complex, and neither Daren nor Alicia fully understood it. Tillo and Iltis had been summoned from Verlone, their province on the continent of Elise, after dreams called them to serve. Now, facing the challenge ahead, they stood unwavering.
Nearby, a large basket was attached to a pulley system. The group stepped inside, and Iltis closed the door behind them.
Daren felt his stomach lurch as a crank lifted the basket off the deck and over the side of the ship. The airship receded into the fog as they descended. When they touched down, Iltis opened the door and immediately took up a guarded stance, Tillo at his side. Daren and Alicia looked around cautiously. To their right, a long-abandoned road, overgrown with weeds and broken cement, led into the town they had seen from above.
Daren unclipped his whip, letting it dangle at his side, its faint blue glow shimmering. Alicia held Taurnil, ready. He gave her an encouraging smile.
She returned the smile, her eyes scanning the fog. “Let’s end this.” She strode purposefully toward the road, with Daren, Tillo, and Iltis following close behind.
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