Breathing heavily, a Fire Kingdom soldier dismounted from his horse and ascended the steps to the Fire Kingdom Palace. It was then that he was confronted by a group of soldiers, barring his path. One of them, recognizing him as Greg, questioned the urgency of his arrival. “Greg, what is going on?” the soldier asked, curiosity etched on his face.
Greg's voice carried a sense of urgency as he responded, “Tell King Aiden or Prince Tyson I need to speak with them immediately. It is a matter of utmost importance.”
The soldier hesitated for a moment, his gaze shifting to his comrades. After a brief exchange of glances, he turned back to Greg and said, “Wait here, we will see if they will see you.”
Impatient and running out of time, Greg shook his head. “I have no time for this,” he muttered, his eyes scanning the soldiers in search of a solution.
Sensing his frustration, another soldier stepped forward, a reassuring smile on his face. ‘It will be okay,” he said, placing a hand on Greg's shoulder. “I will go and check if King Aiden or Prince Tyson are available. Just breathe, my friend. We will do our best to help you.”
Time seemed to crawl as Greg stood there, the minutes feeling like hours. In the distance, he could hear the distant crackle of flames and the murmurs of soldiers going about their duties. Finally, the soldier who had gone inside emerged from the palace, his expression unreadable.
“King Aiden will see you,” he said, his voice filled with a mix of reverence and awe. “Follow me.”
As they approached an open door leading to the throne room, Greg's eyes fell upon the regal figure of King Aiden, accompanied by his son Prince Tyson.
King Aiden's keen eyes quickly discerned Greg's exhausted appearance, the weariness etched upon his face. With a slight furrow of his brow, the king inquired, “Why have you left your post, soldier?”
Greg's voice trembled slightly as he answered, “It's the green forest, Your Majesty.” His words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of the truth he dared to reveal.
Prince Tyson, sensing the urgency of the situation, extended his hand towards Greg, a silent command for privacy. The palace staff and soldiers promptly exited the room, closing the door behind them, leaving Greg alone with the king and prince.
King Aiden leaned forward, his eyes fixed upon Greg. “Continue,” he urged, his voice laced with curiosity and concern.
Taking a deep breath, Greg began to recount the events that had led him to this moment. “The Earth infant has awakened, Your Majesty,” he began, his voice steady now. “And with the awakening of the child came a resurgence of the green forest.”
Prince Tyson interjected, his voice filled with disbelief, “That's impossible! No births have taken place in the Kingdoms of Elements. The Earth Kingdom’s baby's true love hasn't even been born yet, let alone announced.”
Greg nodded solemnly, his eyes never leaving the faces of the king and prince. “I understand your skepticism, Your Highness. But the green forest is alive again, and in its awakening, an assassin struck, targeting the infant. I managed to save the child by killing the assassin, and the creatures of the green forest healed me.”
His words hung in the air, the gravity of the situation weighing heavily upon the room. Prince Tyson took a step forward, placing himself between Greg and his father. “Soldier, perhaps you need some rest,” he suggested, his voice laced with concern.
In response, Greg removed his armor, revealing a peculiar green mark left by the creature that had healed him. “Here, look for yourself,” he offered, his voice filled with a mix of exhaustion and determination. “I would've bled out if it hadn't been for the creature's aid.”
King Aiden's face remained stoic, his eyes darting between Greg and the mark upon his skin. “Is the green forest planning on attacking the Kingdoms of Elements?” he questioned, his voice betraying a hint of concern.
Greg shook his head, his gaze unwavering. “No, Your Majesty. The creature that healed me made it clear that their only purpose is to protect the child from harm. They see the infant as a beacon of hope, saving the Earth Kingdom.”
A sigh of relief escaped King Aiden's lips, his face relaxing slightly. “That's good news, for now,” he murmured, his voice filled with a mixture of gratitude and apprehension. The room fell into a contemplative silence as they pondered the implications of the green forest's reemergence.
As Prince Tyson leaves the throne room heading towards the back exit of the Fire Kingdom Palace, his mind consumed with a pressing matter that demanded immediate attention.
The crisp air of the Fire Kingdom cut through Prince Tyson's senses, grounding him in the present moment. As he strode purposefully towards his destination, the soldier training building, his eyes were drawn to the figure of Victor, the esteemed general of the Fire Kingdom army. The intensity and precision with which Victor trained the soldiers stirred both adEviantion and a sense of trepidation within Prince Tyson.
Taking a deep breath to steady his nerves, Prince Tyson approached Victor, feeling the weight of the world on his shoulders. With a voice that carried conviction, he uttered, “Victor, I need to speak with you privately.”
Amidst the cacophony of soldiers engaged in intense training, Victor's command rang out, urging them to push harder. Unfazed, Victor turned to face Prince Tyson, his expression a mix of curiosity and concern. “Let's go into my office,” he replied, his tone indicating a readiness to lend an ear.
They entered Victor's office, Prince Tyson closed the heavy wooden door behind him, enveloping the office in a hushed silence. He and Victor walked further into the room, the dim light casting long shadows on the walls. Victor took a seat on the edge of his desk, his weary eyes fixed on Prince Tyson.
“I told you, I wouldn't tell anyone about my little trip with that girl from the Smoke Kingdom to the Underworld,” Victor muttered, a hint of mischief in his voice. “But did you know, the Red Devil has this breathtaking Keener girl working for him? She was very easy on the eyes. I've never seen a Keener before.”
Prince Tyson shook his head, dismissing Victor's rambling. “No, Victor, it's not about that,” he replied, his voice filled with urgency. “His name is Rowan.”
Pausing for a moment, Victor leaned back on his desk, his expression growing serious. “What is the Keener girl's name?” he asked, his tone softer than before.
“I don't know, Victor. I have something important to tell you,” Prince Tyson said, his voice heavy with the weight of his revelation.
Victor nodded, motioning for Prince Tyson to continue. “What is it?” he asked, curiosity mingled with concern.
Taking a deep breath, Prince Tyson gathered his thoughts. “I don't know where to begin. There's so much information to share, but I'll start with the least impacting news. The Earth Kingdom’s baby has awakened, and along with it, the Green Forest has come alive.”
Victor's eyes widened at the mention of the Green Forest. “That ancient forest... it holds immense power,” he murmured, his voice tinged with awe.
Prince Tyson nodded gravely. “Indeed. And that's not all. An assassin from the Water Kingdom came after the baby, and in the process, they killed one of our soldiers and two from the Water Kingdom.”
Concern etched itself onto Victor's face. “My nephew, Sam, was stationed there. Is he alright?”
Prince Tyson's voice faltered as he delivered the devastating news. “I'm sorry, Victor. Greg, the surviving Fire Kingdom soldier, informed me that Sam died while carrying out his duty. I can only offer my sincerest condolences for your loss.”
Prince Tyson stepped closer to Victor, his expression filled with concern. The room was heavy with the weight of anger and sorrow. Victor's fists were clenched tightly, his face contorted with rage. “That damn Water King!” he seethed, his voice filled with fury. “He will pay for this. We cannot let him get away with such an atrocity.”
This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
Prince Tyson, his voice calm and measured, approached Victor with a gentle touch on the shoulder. “Someone once told me never to rush into battle with an angry mind,” he said, his eyes meeting Victor's with understanding.
Victor's surprise was evident as he looked at Prince Tyson. “I am surprised you remember me telling you that,” he said, his anger momentarily interrupted by a flicker of pride.
Prince Tyson offered a reassuring smile. “Your words have stayed with me, Victor. They have guided me in many difficult moments,” he replied. “But now, I urge you to take some time for yourself. Spend it with your sister and your family. Mourn your nephew Sam properly. You have allowed me and father to mourn our losses twice now, and it's only fair that we do the same for you.”
Victor's anger seemed to soften, replaced by a mix of gratitude and vulnerability. He looked at Prince Tyson, realizing the weight of his words. The burden of vengeance had consumed him, but now he saw the importance of taking a step back, of healing with his loved ones by his side.
“What about the Fire Kingdom?” Victor asked, his voice tinged with concern.
Prince Tyson's gaze held steady, his determination unwavering. “I will speak to father, have him lock down the kingdom. We will ensure its safety, but for now, you need to be with your family,” he replied, his voice filled with resolve.
An unexpected warmth filled Victor's heart as he looked at his prince. Prince Tyson's unwavering support reminded him of the strength that family brings, the bond that holds them together even in the face of adversity. Without hesitation, Victor embraced Prince Tyson in a heartfelt hug, feeling a sense of gratitude and love wash over him.
***
Rufus, donning his red and black tuxedo, followed Rowan up three flights of stairs, until they reached a small chapel area. Inside, in a stunning black and red wedding dress with a veil, stood Hanina, radiant and beautiful. Rufus stood beside her, his heart skipping a beat as he admired her from behind the black veil. He knew deep down that their marriage was merely a means to protect Hanina, but in this moment, his gaze was filled with admiration and a newfound captivation by her beauty.
Hanina noticed Rufus' distracted state, “what's wrong, Rufus?”
“You... you look lovely,” he managed to say, his voice filled with sincerity.
Rowan, acting as the officiant, performed the ceremony, announcing that Rufus and Hanina were now husband and wife. Rufus, trembling with a mix of emotions, lifted Hanina's veil, revealing her enchanting features. “Are you ready?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
The corners of Hanina's lips curled up into a warm smile. “Yes,” she replied, her voice filled with a blend of happiness and apprehension.
Rowan playfully interjected, “Brother, the ceremony is not complete until you kiss your bride.”
Taking a deep breath, Rufus closed the remaining distance between himself and Hanina, gently pressing his lips against hers. Rowan, overcome with joy, rushed forward and enveloped Hanina in a warm hug, before turning to Rufus and embracing him tightly.
As the night grew late, Rowan placed a gentle hand on Rufus's back, a knowing smile on his lips. “Come, my dear brother, I have a surprise in store for you and your lovely bride” he whispered with a mischievous glint in his eyes. Rufus and Hanina exchanged curious glances and followed Rowan as he led them up the elegant staircase to the second floor.
Rowan swung open the door to reveal a sight that took their breath away. The room was adorned with an abundance of red roses, their petals cascading like a sea of love. The soft glow of candlelight danced upon the velvety blooms, casting an enchanting spell on the space. Rufus and Hanina stood in awe, their eyes shimmering with wonder.
“Rufus,” Rowan spoke with a voice filled with tender affection, “you must carry her across the threshold and into this room of romance.”
Rufus chuckled, his eyes twinkling mischievously. “You have been reading too many old tales, dear brother,” Rufus teased.
Rowan simply smiled and urged him forward, “Just do it, Rufus.”
With a sheepish grin, Rufus turned to Hanina and said, “I apologize, my dear Bride, for this whimsical request.” Hanina's eyes sparkled with anticipation, and she nodded, Rufus gently lifted her into his strong arms, cradling her with care, and carried her across the threshold, they make their way on the delicate petals that adorned the path.
As Rufus set Hanina down on her feet, his eyes locked with Rowan's in a silent understanding. Rowan nodded approvingly, his heart filled with both pride and affection for his brother. “Enjoy your night, my dear Rufus,” he said, his words dripping with warmth, as he closes the door.
“The hard part is over,” Rufus murmured to himself, his voice barely audible in the silence of the room.
Turning his attention to the empty space where Rowan had stood moments ago, Rufus walked purposefully towards the worn-out couch in the corner of the room. The leather creaked under his weight as he settled down, his body sinking into the familiar contours of the cushions. He let out a contented sigh, his mind now free from the worries and concerns that had plagued him for so long.
Hanina, her eyes shimmering with gratefulness, approached Rufus with a soft smile on her lips. “Thank you, Rufus,” she whispered, her voice filled with emotion.
Rufus met her gaze, his eyes filled with warmth and understanding. “I told you I would take care of everything,” he reassured her, his voice firm yet gentle. He wanted her to know that she could rely on him, that she no longer had to bear the weight of her secret alone.
With a sense of duty, Rufus rose from the couch and made his way towards the heavy wooden door. He locked the door, he felt a surge of protectiveness wash over him. He knew that within the room lay their shared secret, a secret that had the power to destroy lives if it were ever revealed.
Rufus offered her a reassuring smile, his eyes glimmering with a mixture of tenderness and determination. “You don't have to thank me. Go sleep on the bed, Hanina,” Rufus suggested gently, his voice filled with warmth. “I will rest on the couch for the night. Tomorrow, we can start our new life together in my home.”
Hanina nodded, her heart swelling with a mix of apprehension and anticipation. She walked towards the bed, then she laid down in the soft embrace of the bed, Hanina's mind began to wander. She thought about Prince Maccoy, her lost love, and the child she carried within her. It was a secret she had guarded fiercely, but Rufus had not only accepted it but had chosen to protect it with his own life. Hanina felt a profound sense of gratitude for the man who had not only become her husband but her protector.
***
The scorching desert wind whipped through their hair, Marudeva and Aurgelmir charged forward on their fearless steeds towards the chaotic scene unfolding before them. The Dweller warrior, clad in battle-worn armor, stood valiantly against the onslaught of five Water Kingdom soldiers, their gleaming armor reflecting the harsh sunlight.
Marudeva's heart raced as he witnessed the clash of swords and the cries of Dweller glass on sea glass. He knew he had to intervene, to prevent any further bloodshed and protect the sacred Green Forest that lay just beyond their reach. With a commanding voice, he shouted, “Stop!”
The Dweller warrior, his face etched with determination, and the Water Kingdom soldiers, their faces painted with hostility, halted their clash. All eyes turned to Marudeva, their expressions a mixture of curiosity and caution.
Stepping forward, Marudeva locked eyes with the soldiers, his voice filled with an unwavering authority. “What is your plan?” he demanded. “The Green Forest is awake now, its ancient power coursing through its very veins. You do not want to provoke its wrath and become its enemy.”
One of the Water Kingdom soldiers, his voice filled with defiance, stepped forward. “King Arroyo gave us permission to burn down the forest again,” he sneered, his arrogance evident.
Marudeva's eyes blazed with fury as he dismounted his horse and strode towards the soldier. Each step resonated with authority and an unyielding sense of ownership. “You do not have permission to set foot on the Dweller Desert,” he declared, his voice echoing in the vast expanse. “Do you not see the sand beneath your feet? This is my land, and you will not desecrate it.”
The soldier, taken aback by Marudeva's unwavering resolve, attempted to regain his composure. “If you dare interfere, King Arroyo will declare war on the Dwellers!” he threatened, his voice laced with venom.
Marudeva's eyes narrowed, his voice cold and resolute. “So be it,” he retorted, his words carrying the weight of defiance. “If war is what awaits us, then we shall face it head-on. But for now, get off my land!”
With a mixture of fear and hesitation, the Water Kingdom soldiers begrudgingly turned away, their footsteps retreating across the desert sands. Marudeva watched them leave, his eyes filled with determination and a sense of duty that burned deep within his soul.
As the last soldier disappeared over the horizon, Marudeva turned to the Dweller warrior, a silent understanding passing between them. They had a shared purpose now, to protect their homeland from any threat, no matter how formidable.
Marudeva stood tall on his beloved Dweller Desert land, his eyes fixed upon the majestic Green Forest that lay before him. The trees swayed and cracked, their movements a testament to the vibrant life that thrived within. Marudeva understanding its importance and the harmony it brought to their world.
Beside him stood Aurgelmir. “What are you doing?” he asked, his voice laced with genuine concern.
Marudeva took a moment to collect his thoughts before responding. “I am ensuring that our people are not held responsible for the Water King's actions,” he explained. His voice carried a sense of determination, a resolve to protect his fellow Dwellers.
With his gaze still fixated on the Green Forest, Marudeva spoke again, addressing the forest itself. “Green Forest, fear not. The Dwellers mean you no harm, and we shall not disrupt your tranquility in any way,” he declared. His words carried a sense of reverence, an acknowledgment of the forest's importance.
Marudeva knew that their land was vast and that keeping the Water King away from the desert would require immense effort. He understood the Water King's stubbornness and his relentless pursuit of power. But Marudeva would not give up. He was determined to do his best to keep the Water King at bay, to protect the delicate balance that existed between the desert and the forest.
“I must warn you about the Water King, though I know he is not easily swayed,” Marudeva admitted, his voice tinged with concern. “But I will not falter in my efforts to keep him away from our home. The desert is vast, but so is our determination. We shall leave in peace, and I shall do everything within my power to ensure it remains so.”
As the wind rustled through the leaves of the Green Forest, Marudeva felt a surge of determination and hope. He knew that the path ahead would not be easy, but he was willing to fight for the peace and harmony that defined their land.