In the early morning, as the first rays of sunlight filtered through the grand windows of the Wind Kingdom palace, King Aeolus sat in his office, surrounded by stacks of ancient documents. His brow furrowed with concentration as he meticulously combed through the papers, his tired eyes scanning the faded ink for any hint of information.
As if sensing his distress, the doors swung open, and King Consort Caelus from the Monsoon Kingdom swept into the room. The worry etched on his face became palpable as he approached his beloved Aeolus. Standing beside him, Caelus watched his husband's relentless search with a mix of concern and affection.
“My love,” Caelus said softly, his voice laced with worry, “you need some rest. You haven't slept in days.”
Aeolus, exhausted and consumed by his quest, lashed out with a weariness that weighed heavy on his voice. “I am fine,” he replied, his tone strained yet determined. “I must keep looking. I will not allow another soul to feel the pain of losing…”
Caelus gently placed a hand on Aeolus' arm, his touch a comforting reassurance. “A child, Calder, was our son,” Caelus confessed, his voice trembling with emotion. “His memory will forever live in my heart. We were once a happy family, you, me, and our other son, Prince Anori. What triggered this relentless search? What compelled you to spend days lost in these old documents?”
Aeolus sighed, weariness and anguish mingling in his eyes. “The Wind is changing in the Green Forest, just as it did when Calder was in the womb of our surrogate,” he explained, his voice filled with a mix of pain and determination. “I must find some information. I must warn someone before they suffer the same loss we did.”
Unable to bear seeing his love consumed by grief and exhaustion, Caelus gently took the paper from Aeolus' trembling hand. He held it up, studying the faded script before turning his attention back to Aeolus. With tenderness and love, he pressed his lips against Aeolus's in a gentle kiss, a silent promise of comfort and support.
“Come,” Caelus whispered, his voice filled with warmth and determination. “Let us nourish our bodies, wash away the weight of sorrow, and find solace in each other's embrace. We will face the challenges together, my love.”
As Aeolus stood, his hand interlaced with Caelus', he cast one last longing glance at the stack of documents. The weight of his mission remained heavy on his shoulders, but in that moment, he found comfort in the love and support of his husband.
Leaving the office, Aeolus and Caelus strolled through the grand halls of Wind Kingdom Palace, their footsteps echoing in harmony with their intertwined thoughts. Aeolus, consumed by his ongoing research, barely registered the beauty surrounding him. Meanwhile, Caelus, with a firm grasp on Aeolus's arm, guided him with a sense of unwavering support.
As the royal couple made their way, a commotion erupted nearby. Their son, Prince Anori, stood locked in a heated argument with his wife, Princess Aella. Aella, with her striking dark blue skin and flowing purple and white hair, radiated a sense of strength and defiance. Anori's voice echoed through the corridor, filled with anger and frustration.
“You will not embarrass me again like that in court!” Anori's words reverberated with a mix of entitlement and desperation.
In a display of defiance, Aella pushed him forcefully, causing Anori to stumble and fall to the floor. Her eyes blazed with determination as she pointed her finger accusingly at him. “You will not yell at me like I am your servant,” she proclaimed, her voice laced with indignation.
Aeolus, his mind briefly torn from his research, and Caelus hurried to their son's side. Anori, still seething with anger, glared at Aella, his wife and partner in life.
Aeolus turned to Caelus, a knowing look in his eyes. “See, I told you we've spoiled him too much,” he murmured, his voice laced with a mixture of concern and disappointment.
Gripping Anori's arm firmly, Aeolus addressed him directly. “You are the future of the Wind Kingdom, my son. It is time to act with the responsibility and dignity that befits your position.”
Caelus, his voice calm and measured, added his wisdom to the conversation. “Anori, your father speaks the truth. It is not fitting for you to argue with your wife in public. Retreat to your private chambers and resolve your differences as adults.”
The weight of his parents' words settled upon Anori, and for a moment, he felt the burden of expectation. He begrudgingly accepted their counsel, realizing that his actions reflected not only on himself but on the entire Wind Kingdom.
***
In the vibrant and bustling Dweller City, Marudeva, couldn't help but notice a growing number of visitors from the Water Kingdom. On this particular day, as he strolled through the lively marketplace with Pyla and Ramil, he couldn't shake off the feeling of being observed. Glancing discreetly around, Marudeva's gaze fell upon two unfamiliar men, their attire and demeanor clearly marking them as outsiders.
As they meandered through the market, a shopkeeper approached them, holding a succulent piece of venison, offering it to Pyla as a suggestion for her growing baby. Pyla, her radiant glow enhancing her beauty, examined the meat with a thoughtful expression. However, her cravings led her towards the fruit pies displayed nearby, their sweet scent tantalizing her senses. Politely declining the meat, she inquired about the price of the pies.
Pyla exchanged a gold coin with the shopkeeper and proudly showed her chosen pie to Marudeva, only to find him preoccupied with the two men who had been watching them intently from across the street. Sensing her husband's unease, Pyla's smile faded, and concern crept into her eyes.
Marudeva, trying to reassure his pregnant wife, offered a smile of his own. “That looks delicious, my love. Buy another one, and we will enjoy it together at home later.” Their eyes locked briefly, a silent understanding passing between them.
Knowing that his family's safety was paramount, Marudeva discreetly signaled to two trusted Dweller Warriors as he moved away from Pyla and Ramil. With a determined glance, he instructed, “Ensure the safe return of my wife and son to my home. Also, apprehend those two men across the street and bring them to the Dweller Warriors Training building.”
The Dweller Warriors, well-versed in their duties, nodded in unison, acknowledging Marudeva's command. “Yes, Sir,” they replied, their loyalty unwavering. One warrior remained by Pyla's side, providing a strong and protective presence, while the other two stealthily maneuvered towards the men, ready to take them into custody.
As the events unfolded, tension hung in the air. Pyla, unaware of her husband's covert actions, focused on the warm anticipation of returning home. Meanwhile, the three Dweller Warriors approached the outsiders with precision, swiftly and silently surrounding them. The men, caught off guard, attempted to resist, but the warriors' expertise proved unmatched. Overpowered and subdued, they were swiftly escorted to the Dweller Warriors Training building for interrogation and investigation.
Marudeva followed the Dweller Warriors as they escorted the two men from the Water Kingdom into the Training building. The room they were led into was brightly lit, casting an intense glow on Marudeva's face as he approached the strangers. His voice carried a mix of curiosity and suspicion as he asked, “Why were you following me and my family?”
Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.
The taller of the two men shifted uncomfortably before speaking. “Your wife is very beautiful,” he muttered, his gaze fixed on the floor. Marudeva's eyes narrowed, sensing there was more to their presence than met the eye.
Just then, Aurgelmir entered the room with a commanding presence. He walked over to the men, his eyes cold and calculating. Aurgelmir pulled out a wicked-looking knife and pressed it gently against the throat of one of the men. The room fell silent, tension thick in the air.
“Why have you traveled from the Water Kingdom to the Dweller lands?” Aurgelmir's voice was low, filled with a dangerous edge.
The other man, seemingly in fear for his life, spoke up, “We came here to buy venison, as it is hard to find in the Water Kingdom.”
Aurgelmir exchanged a knowing glance with Marudeva. Aurgelmir turned his gaze back to the men, his voice dripping with authority. “What should we do with them?”
Marudeva's mind raced, weighing the options before him. “Let them go,” he finally said, his voice firm but measured. “Just keep an eye on them when they come to the Dweller land.”
The two men visibly relaxed, a mix of relief and gratitude washing over their faces. Marudeva's stern gaze softened as he looked at them. “Get your venison and return to the Water Kingdom before I report you to your King,” he warned. The message was clear - their actions had been noticed, and any further missteps would not go unpunished.
***
The anticipation grew with each passing mile, the landscape transforming from the fiery hues of the Fire Kingdom to the hazy mist that enveloped the Smoke Kingdom. The castle loomed before them, an imposing structure that seemed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding mountains. The silver and gold carriage came to a halt in front of the grand entrance, and Prince Maccoy stepped out, his heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and nervousness.
As he followed his father, King Aiden, into the Smoke Kingdom castle, Prince Maccoy couldn't help but be awed by the grandeur that surrounded him. King Kea and Queen Noelani, the rulers of the Smoke Kingdom, greeted them at the entrance. King Kea, with his dark gray smoke-like skin and hair, exuded an air of authority and power. Queen Noelani, on the other hand, had a light bluish skin tone and white-grayish hair, a stark contrast to her husband. She was originally from the Mist Kingdom, a part of the Wind Kingdom, and her presence added an air of elegance and grace to the room.
After exchanging pleasantries, Noelani pointed down a hallway and said, “Why don't you go meet your future wife, Maccoy? She is reading with her tutor in her bedroom.”
Aiden hesitated, his protective instincts kicking in. “My son is not allowed to be alone with a woman,” he stated firmly.
But Noelani was persistent. “My daughter, Princess Uahi, will be his wife. Give them a moment alone. It doesn't matter what happens, they will be married in a few months.”
Aiden looked at his old friend, Kea, seeking his support. Kea simply nodded, a knowing smile on his face. “Yes, she is persistent,” he said. “But sometimes, love needs a chance to blossom.”
Reluctantly, Aiden agreed. “Fine, only this one time,” he said, his voice laced with caution. “Go, my son, have fun. I will allow it.”
Maccoy walked down the grand hallways of the Smoke Kingdom castle, his footsteps echoing against the marble floors. As he turned a corner, he caught a glimpse of his father, Aiden, and the King and Queen of the Smoke Kingdom walking in the opposite direction.
But his thoughts were interrupted by a soft moaning sound coming from a partially open door at the end of the hall. Curiosity piqued, Maccoy approached the room and quietly stepped inside. What he saw took him aback - Uahi same features as her mother, his betrothed, was engaged in a passionate kiss with her female tutor.
Startled, Maccoy stammered, “Sorry.”
Uahi pulled away from her tutor and turned towards him. “Wait, Prince Maccoy. We are done now,” she said, her voice calm and composed.
Maccoy approached her, feeling a mix of embarrassment and curiosity. “I didn't mean to interrupt,” he apologized again.
Uahi kissed her tutor one last time before dismissing her. “Sarah, come back later, my love. I need to speak with my future husband,” she said, her voice filled with authority.
Sarah bowed respectfully to both Uahi and Maccoy before leaving the room. Uahi gestured for Maccoy to sit beside her on the plush sofa in her bedroom.
“Come, sit. Let's talk,” she invited.
Maccoy settled beside her, still feeling a bit uneasy. “I am sorry, again,” he repeated.
Uahi locked her arm with his, a gentle smile on her face. “Don't worry about it,” she reassured him. “We will be married soon, and I am sure you will see me, and Sarah kiss many times. You see, Maccoy, I have never lied about who I am. My family knows, and I'm sure everyone in the Kingdoms of Elements knows. I love Sarah, and I plan on being with her for the rest of my life. But she also understands that I was raised to produce heirs for our Kingdom. We have an understanding.”
Maccoy's confusion deepened. “But does it not bother you? To be with someone you don't truly love?”
Uahi's eyes softened with understanding. “No, it doesn't bother me. Love comes in many forms, and I have found it with Sarah. But I also understand my duty to our Kingdom. Maccoy, you should find someone who will fully understand our positions and be your lover, your confidant.”
Maccoy hesitated for a moment before speaking. “I have met someone,” he confessed softly. “Her name is Hanina, and I love her deeply. But she is in another place, far from here.”
Uahi's expression turned thoughtful. “That's good,” she said, her voice filled with genuine warmth. “Do tell me about her. I promise that whatever you share with me will never be shared with another soul.”
And so, Maccoy opened up to Uahi, sharing stories of his encounters with Hanina in the Red Hell. The hours slipped away as they talked about their lovers and future life together.
***
Hanina, with her arms full of cleaning supplies, listened attentively as Sue, one of the maids, approached her. Sue had a look of frustration on her face as she explained her predicament.
“Ms. Hanina,” Sue began. “I was supposed to help Lucy clean Rowan's game room, but she locked me out.”
Hanina paused and placed an item on the shelf before turning her full attention to Sue. “Why on earth would she do that?” Hanina asked, genuinely puzzled.
Sue sighed, her eyes filled with both annoyance and disappointment. “Well, she's in there with Rufus,” she muttered under her breath.
Hanina's eyes widened in surprise. “Finish putting away these supplies, Sue,” Hanina instructed calmly, pointing to the wooden crate. “Then, go and check on Rowan's lunch. I'll handle this.”
Sue nodded, grateful to have Hanina take charge, and quickly made her way to the kitchen. Meanwhile, Hanina briskly walked towards the third floor of Rowan's mansion, her footsteps echoing in the grand hallway.
She reached Rowan's game room and forcefully banged on the door, she placed her ear on the door. Hanina could hear muffled voices from inside, confirming that Lucy and Rufus were indeed in there.
“Unlock this door now, Lucy!” Hanina demanded, her voice filled with authority.
After what felt like an eternity, the game room door finally creaked open. Rufus emerged, adjusting his disheveled clothes, a sheepish smile on his face as he passed Hanina.
“Hanina,” Rufus greeted, his voice dripping with charm. “How can I assist you?”
Hanina's eyes narrowed as she approached Rufus, her finger pointing directly at his face. “I distinctly remember Rowan telling you to stop carrying on with his house staff,” she said sternly.
Rufus's smile faltered for a brief moment before he regained his composure. “Actually, Hanina,” he began, his tone slightly defensive. “I'm only exclusive with Lucy now. It's different.”
Hanina's expression remained unyielding, her disappointment palpable. “Fine,” she replied, her voice filled with a mixture of resignation and frustration. “But please, confine your personal activities to nonworking hours.”
Rufus nodded, his smile replaced with a more serious expression. “Of course, Hanina. I understand.”
As Hanina turned to leave, Lucy stepped out of the game room, her cheeks flushed, and her eyes filled with embarrassment. Hanina paused for a moment, her gaze filled with a mix of understanding and sympathy.
“Lucy,” Hanina said softly. “Remember why we are here. Let's focus on our responsibilities and maintain professionalism within this household.”
Lucy's nod was barely perceptible as she lowered her head, retreating into the game room. Hanina, observing the scene from a distance, let out a deep sigh. She couldn't help but notice Rufus struggling with the buttons on his shirt, his toned abs glistening under the dim lights. Frustration welled up inside her as she watched him, her irritation growing with each clumsy attempt.
“Let me do it!” Hanina exclaimed, her voice laced with exasperation. “Does anyone in this mansion know how to do anything right?” She closed the distance between them, her determined steps echoing through the hallway. With practiced ease, she reached out to fix Rufus's shirt, her fingers deftly buttoning it up.
Rufus stood still, captivated by the closeness of Hanina. Her beauty had always been undeniable, but in that moment, it seemed to radiate with an intensity he had never noticed before. His heartbeat faster, his thoughts momentarily consumed by her presence.
Hanina finished buttoning Rufus's shirt, she looked up at him, her eyes filled with a combination of determination and gentleness. “There, now go,” she said softly. “Lucy will be done with work at 5pm.”
Rufus nodded, a silent expression of gratitude, before turning to walk away.