A couple of weeks following Merig's proposal to Kate, on a bright yet chilly February afternoon blanketed in snow in the bustling city of Tara, Barth and Gordo find themselves at their favorite table in the vibrant Bright and Sherry pub, deep in conversation.

(B)So, how do you like the weather, especially when patrolling with Merig and Larry?

(G)It’s honestly not so bad, but I feel sorry for the human guards. Their bodies are colder than us goblins. And Merig has been much less strict with me and lets me do real guard work. I’m actually enjoying it. I have a lot of fun.

(B)That’s good. I’m curious, how was your training?

(G)Rough, but that’s only because of what I did to Kate back when she first got here and when all that chaos happened with Cormac. Merig was not so gracious about my training and put me through quite a bit as punishment for my “sins”, as he put it. But I willingly endured it and I apologized to Kate so many times. Merig made me watch over her every time she went out to forage, and I’d even escort her around the city for weeks. But I was more than okay with that since Kate was really nice to me, despite everything.

(B)Yeah, that’s Kate for you. Just try not to get on Merig’s bad side again. I remember when we were all back at camp before Cormac became boss. We used to talk about what we would do when we moved to the city. Of course, Cormac never told us what he wanted to do, nor would he ever be a part of the conversation.

(G)Yeah, I remember, you, Larry, Merig, Cormac and myself were like my brothers. And now we’re all here, except for Cormac. I wonder how he’s doing after all this time.

(B)Who knows, but we haven’t heard from him since the battle. Have you seen any of his bandits while patrolling out there?

(G)We’ve seen bandits, but we aren’t really sure if they’re from Cormac’s camp. However, some of those bandits did come here to live in the city. And a few were even recruited into the Royal Guards. It’s safe to say some of Cormac’s bandits actually wanted to leave and live with humans. But we haven’t heard from Cormac directly or through the bandits that stayed in his camp.

(B)That’s great to hear. Let’s just hope Cormac keeps his promise and doesn’t try to start shit again. He was always a sore loser, and I still felt sorry for him. But I don’t anymore since he did a terrible thing and I don’t think he’d ever come here to ask for forgiveness. However, he really seemed like he was ashamed of himself, as he should be. Cormac was our friend, but I don't think I could forgive him for what he did to my brother and to Kate.

(G)I know, and I can't exactly blame you, and I don't blame Merig for putting me through hell, either. But I told him that I’d do anything for his and Kate’s forgiveness. Kate forgave me sooner than Merig did. Even after she forgave me, Merig still had it out for me. But he’s starting to hate me less.

(B)As long as you were remorseful, that’s all that matters. At least you weren’t the one that threatened her life or the life of anyone else. Also, Kate doesn’t have a hateful bone in her body, so I can see her being nice to you even after what you did. Cormac, on the other hand, I think that would be a different story. I’ve been helping her train her magic, and she told me it would help her if she imagined Cormac as her target when charging and firing spells. And she was right, it did help her train better. I don’t think she would ever forgive Cormac, and he’s the only person I know of that she has any hatred towards. We’ve also helped her through the trauma of what happened.

(G)I don’t blame her, either. I only heard from you about what had happened because I never got to witness it for myself. I only heard Kate’s screams off in the distance. To think we almost lost Merig, makes me regret everything. After what Cormac did, he wouldn’t dare show his face here, I’m sure of it. And if he’s ashamed of what he did, good. Like you said, he should be. Now that I’m free of him, I’m actually enjoying life. I’d take Merig’s punishment any day over the shit I went through with Cormac.

(B)I agree with you, buddy. You’re just lucky he didn’t make you do anything crazy, otherwise you wouldn’t be here. The same goes for me, but I would’ve never listened to Cormac. He knew I didn’t want anything to do with hurting Merig or Kate. He had talked about his plan for a decade and when he started initiating it, that’s when I knew he was serious and that I had to leave because I couldn’t be a part of it. But that’s all over. Let’s just be happy we’re here and living a better life like we always wanted.

(G)You’re right, I’m enjoying myself here. The people are great. I have a place to sleep, food to eat and I still have my friends. You, Merig, and Larry were right about everything. It’s just going to take a while for me to adjust and heal from everything. And we have one less person in our friend group, but I think that’s for the better.

(B)Agreed, betrayal hurts and it’s going to take time to heal from. Let’s just enjoy life and be thankful for what we have, because it could be worse. We have to cherish what’s still here and not take it for granted.

(G)You’re absolutely right, I’m happy here. We’re home and there’s nowhere else I’d rather be.

(B)Me too…Oh, before I forget, I initially asked you about your guard training because I wanted to finally join the guards. How do I go about being recruited?

(G)Oh, you just have to talk to Merig. He and Larry are usually at the training grounds around this time. They’ll be the ones training you.

(B)So I just go to the training grounds? Where is it?

(G)Oh, it’s near Rath Castle. I’ll take you there.

(B)Sounds great, let’s go.

Gordo and Barth gallop their horses toward the guard quarters, making their way to the training grounds to find Merig and Larry. As they approach, they spot Larry fiercely attacking training dummies with his swords. The sound of hooves catches Larry's attention, prompting him to pause and turn, ready to greet Barth and Gordo as they come to a halt.

(L)Afternoon, fellas! What brings you two here? Sorry, you caught me doing some workouts with my new blades.

(B)Hey, Larry. No worries, you looked like you were having fun. Sorry for the intrusion.

(L)Not at all. Is everything okay?

(G)Everything is fine. Barth just wanted to come see you or Merig.

(L)Oh? What’s up, Barth?

(B)Well, I think I’m ready to train to be a Royal Guard. I told myself it’s what I wanted to do when I got here, but I wanted to get settled in the city, first. These past few days I’ve been thinking about it even more and it’s definitely something I want to do.

(L)Well, if you want to get recruited, you’ll have to consult Merig. He’s the one who usually handles recruitment. But he wasn’t here when I showed up. You might find him at home or around the city.

(B)Okay, I’ll go find him and talk to him, no problem. Thanks, buddy, I’m excited about starting training.

(L)Yeah, it’ll be good to have you join us. We’ll be more than happy to train you, especially Merig. He’d be happy to have his big brother to boss around. He missed you.

(B)[chuckles] Yeah, I missed him, too. He’s a big shot, but he’s still my little brother. He’ll just be the boss of me and I don’t know how I feel about that.

(L)Sibling rivalry never dies. It’ll be interesting to see him train you. I bet you’re looking forward to that. Be careful, he just might give you hell.[chuckles]

(B)Nah, he’ll be fine, I’ll just embarrass the hell out of him. I used to play pranks on him when we were kids. I’ll straighten him up.[smirk]

(L)[laughs] I’d love to see that. I missed you, Barth. It’s good to have you back, buddy. And I’m looking forward to having you in the guards with us. The gang is back…minus one.

(B)It’s good to be back, pal. The group may be missing one, but at least it’s not missing two. We all should be thankful that Merig is still here.

(L)Oh, trust me, I’m thankful every day that Merig is still with us, alive and well. Go find him. I’ll see you later.

(B)See ya later, pal.

Gordo and Barth leave the training grounds, with Barth opting to venture into the city in pursuit of Merig. His search proves fruitless, leading him to Merig's residence. Meanwhile, inside, Merig and Kate are in their bedroom, both naked and ready to embrace an intimate moment. Merig leans over Kate, showering her with kisses and gentle touches. He pauses briefly, looking down at her, and they exchange a warm smile, their eyes locked in a deep connection.

(K)Are you sure you want to be here on your day off, my love?

(M)Of course, why wouldn’t I? This is the only time out of the week that I get to spend all day with you and no one will bother us because they know it’s my day off. I don’t want any interruptions, especially when I’m making love to my soon-to-be wife. It’s the reason I gave myself one day off per week so I can spend it with you.

(K)[smiles] Well, when you put it that way, I guess I don’t feel too bad for taking up your time on your only day off.

(M)There’s nothing to feel bad about at all. It’s more than worth it as long as I get to spend time with you.

(K)Then I guess I don’t feel bad anymore.

(M)Good, because I don’t.

Merig and Kate's lips almost touch, their warm breath intertwining as they share a tender, loving smile, poised on the threshold of a passionate embrace. But just as their hearts are about to beat as one, a sudden knock at the front door shatters the intimate moment. Merig's eyes flash with irritation as he pulls away, his head swiveling towards the sound, and a deep, exasperated sigh escapes his lips, his eyes rolling in frustration at the ill-timed interruption.

(K)I didn’t know you were expecting someone today.

(M)That’s the thing, I’m not. Larry, Ash, and even Gordo know it’s my day off.

(K)Well, maybe it’s important.

(M)If it was important, they would go see Larry since he fills in for me on my days off. Besides, I’m about to make love to you. They can wait.

Kate giggles softly as Merig leans down to kiss her, deepening their intimate connection. After a brief interlude, a second knock at the door interrupts them, prompting Merig to pull away once more, his expression now tinged with irritation. He then gazes at Kate, offering her an apologetic glance before addressing her in a gentle tone.

(M)I’m sorry, sweetheart. I’ll be right back, okay?

(K)Okay, my love, hurry back to me.

(M)Of course, I can never stay away from you. I always come back.

(K)[smiles] I do too. Nothing can keep me away from my goblin.

(M)And nothing can keep me away from my human.

Merig and Kate exchange a tender smile and a kiss before he gets out of bed, while Kate wraps her naked body in the blanket. Merig sits down on the bed to put on his sleepwear trousers and nightshirt, then heads towards the door and exits their bedroom. He trudges down the stairs, still visibly annoyed, and approaches the front door. As he opens it, he finds Barth standing outside with a warm and friendly smile, ready to speak.

(B)Afternoon, little brother.

(M)Oh, hi Barth.

(B)You don’t look too happy. Is everything okay? Did I show up at a bad time?

(M)…Sort of…It’s actually my day off. Kate and I were just spending some…quality time together if you catch my drift.

(B)Oh, shit, I’m sorry, Merig, I had no idea.

(M)It’s fine, you didn’t know. So what’s up?

(B)Oh, I was just wanting to talk to you about joining the guards. Gordo told me you and Larry would be training me and Larry told me to come talk to you about recruiting me.

(M)I see, it seems Larry failed to tell you that today was my day off, and Gordo should’ve already known, too. I might have to put it on a schedule so people don’t forget.[sigh] Alright, give me about an hour and I’ll meet you at the pub. I’d like to finish spending my quality time with Kate.

(B)[chuckles] I completely understand, Merig, I’ll wait at the pub. Again, I’m sorry.

(M)It’s fine, I’ll see you in an hour, okay?

(B)You got it, stud. Go enjoy your time with Kate.[wink]

(M)Oh, I definitely will. See ya.

(B)See you later.

Barth departs, walking off towards the pub as Merig closes the front door behind him. He then heads back upstairs, returning to the bedroom where Kate awaits. As he enters, their eyes lock in a lustful gaze, and they exchange a seductive smile. The air is charged with tension as Kate speaks in a soft, sweet tone, her voice barely above a whisper.

(K)Welcome back, my love. Who was at the door?

(M)It was Barth. He said he wanted to join the guards.

(K)Oh yeah? He’s finally going to be a guard, huh?

(M)Yep, I told him to meet me at the pub in an hour because I want to finish making love to my fiancée.

(K)[smiles] Well then, shall we?

(M)We shall.

Merig approaches the bed and starts to undress, while Kate eagerly pulls back the blanket. Taking a pause, Merig gazes down at Kate's nude form, appreciating her beauty as they exchange smiles. He then climbs onto the bed, moving towards Kate before settling back into position and hovering above her.

(M)Now. Where were we?

Merig bends down to kiss Kate tenderly, his hands caressing her lovingly as they share a passionate moment. Meanwhile, at the pub, Barth is seated at his regular table, patiently waiting for Merig to join him. Suddenly, Larry, Ashley, and Gordo enter the pub and make their way towards the group table. Larry's expression turns puzzled as he notices Barth sitting alone, but they all take a seat, nonetheless.

(L)Hey, Barth, did you talk to Merig?

(B)Uh, Yeah I found him, but he was at his house. He was spending some…quality time with Kate. Apparently, today is his day off.

(L)Oh, shit! Today is his day off, isn’t it?

(A)Yeah, how did you not know that? Even I knew that. I keep telling you, he usually takes this day off to spend time with Kate. He’s been doing that for a while now.

(L)Dammit, I guess I keep forgetting Barth. I’m sorry, I’m sure Merig wasn’t happy.

(B)He looked annoyed, but he wasn’t angry since I didn’t know his schedule.

(L)Then he’ll probably be angry with me.

(G)Yeah, I forgot, too. Sorry neither of us mentioned it, Barth.

(L)I remember when I first made the mistake of knocking on his door on his day off. It was way before Merig proposed to Kate. I came over one day and knocked, but he didn’t answer, and he didn’t lock his front door, so I kind of let myself in. I was halfway through the door when I heard some…noises coming from upstairs and I’m sure you can figure out what was going on. So I was quiet as a mouse and shut the door. I confessed to Merig what happened, and he laughed it off. He forgot to inform me that he was going to start taking days off to spend with Kate and it seems I keep forgetting. Sorry Barth.

(B)[chuckles] It’s fine, I’m sure Merig isn’t too mad. He told me to wait here, so here I am.

(A)You should’ve come to me. I was just out laying my traps.

(B)Really? Gordo said you haven’t seen that many bandits for quite some time, at least not recently.

(A)That’s true, but I still lay them down just in case. Bandits are still out there, so we just want to be cautious, that’s all.

(B)That’s understandable. Oh, by the way, do you know when Merig and Kate are going to start planning their wedding?

(A)Good question, I’ve been meaning to ask them. I’ll mention it when they show up. If Merig is meeting you here, odds are Kate is going to be with him.

(L)Yeah, Merig hasn’t really said anything to me yet. He’s been gushing about getting married to Kate and I keep telling him he should start planning now since spring isn’t too far away.

(A)[giggles] Yeah, Kate has been gushing over it ever since he proposed. All she’s talked about is getting to be Merig’s wife. It’s so cute listening to her tell me everything she wants for the wedding, especially when she and I hang out around the city. Every time we pass the wedding boutique, she smiles at all the beautiful dresses in the window. She’s so adorable and I love her to pieces, that woman is so in love with Merig. I remember when she didn’t stop talking about him back before they got together. It was like we were in school all over again, listening to her talk about her crush.

(L)They’re perfect for each other and I’ve never seen or heard them argue, not once. Their love for each other is unconditional and I’m sure they’re more than excited about getting married.

(B)[chuckles] Yeah, they’re both very much in love. It’s good to see my brother happy and Kate too. She’s a sweetheart and absolutely adores Merig, and he’s just as smitten by her.

(G)I bet the wedding will be beautiful. I’m really happy for them.

(A)We’re all happy for them. I’m also glad that Kate is doing better since the battle.

(B)Yeah, me too. I remember you and me sitting at this table with her and talking to her when Merig was doing guard work. It wasn’t too long after it happened.

(A)I remember too, she’d come in almost every morning and she’d tell us about her nightmares. I can’t imagine what she went through. I did worry about her a lot and I still do.

(B)I worried, too. Her anxiety was through the roof and she’d cry every time she thought about losing Merig again. My heart broke for her, but luckily she had us and we did what we could. I was glad to see her start smiling more around Christmas time. And now she’s going to be getting married to my brother.

(A)Yeah, she loves the Christmas season, it’s one of her favorites and it really cheered her up when we celebrated it and I love seeing her cheerful self again. That’s when I started to see her get better, but I still kept doing what I could so that she didn’t go back to being depressed. When she’d stay home while Merig was gone for the day, I’d sit and talk with her and make her breakfast like she did for me whenever I’d get depressed when we were teenagers.

(B)She and I had a lot of fun when I first started helping her train her magic. She’d still want to train despite how she felt each day. She said it was good for her to get out of the house and train so she didn’t fall deeper into depression. I was more than happy to help her relieve stress and I’ve been teaching her stronger spells. I still worry about her sometimes, but I’m glad she’s improving.

(A)I am too, I’ll always worry about her. But she’s so excited about getting married to her goblin, as she calls him. It should relieve more of her stress and the fact that Merig has been taking time off since after the battle. Which is why I don’t understand why Larry and Gordo keep forgetting.

This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

(L)[sigh] I keep spacing it. I’ll accept the tongue-lashing when Merig gets here.

(G)Hey, he’s more gracious with you than he is with me, so you’ll get off easier than I will. He won’t even bother with a tongue lashing and make me spar with him again. He’s terrifying when he really gets into it, but luckily he uses training arrows. I’m afraid one of these days that he might use real ones and I’d fear for my life.

(L)It’ll be okay, Gordo, he’s been taking it easier on you lately. Kate has been telling him to tone it down and you know Merig, he’ll do anything for her.

(G)Have you met Merig? He didn’t used to be this terrifying.

(L)He's been through a lot of combat training, so he's toughened up more since you last saw him. He’ll let up eventually, just stay on his good side. You’re making up for what you did, and I commend you for working to redeem yourself.

(G)I’ve been on his good side, he’s just holding a grudge and I’m not sure when he’ll let it go.

(L)Considering what you did involved inflicting pain on Kate, I’m guessing not anytime soon.

(G)[sigh] I guess I better prepare myself, then.

A few moments later, the door of the pub swings open, revealing Merig and Kate, who enter hand in hand as they proceed towards the table where the group is seated. Barth raises his gaze to acknowledge their arrival and offers them a greeting, while Gordo's expression shifts to one of shock and dismay.

(B)Hey, you two.

(G)I’m a dead goblin.

(M)Hey, sorry we took so long.

(B)Don’t be sorry, I still feel bad about showing up like that.

(L)Yeah, I'm sorry Merig, I’m the one that sent Barth to find you. I keep forgetting you take this day off.

(M)[sigh] It’s fine, I guess I’ll have to put up some kind of schedule with a reminder. But I’m not upset, so don’t worry. I still spent time with Kate, and that’s all I cared about.

(A)Hey you, future Mrs. Flynn.

(K)[smiles] Hey.

(A)Didn’t think you’d come out here during this cold weather.

(K)This cloak keeps me warm and so does holding onto Merig with his warm body temperature. Besides, I’m all warmed up for the day since we spent time together this morning.

(A)Oh, I bet.[wink]

The two women share a laugh before Kate and Merig take their seats beside each other at the table with the rest of the group. Larry, Ashley, and Barth are seated opposite them, while Gordo occupies the left end of the table close to Kate. Merig glances at Barth, who is seated across from him, as they discuss Barth's potential enlistment in the guards.

(M)So, you finally want to be a Royal Guard, huh Barth?

(B)Yep, I figured I’ve given myself some time to relax after everything that happened with Cormac.

Kate's face rapidly transforms into a mask of somberness as her eyes narrow, focusing intently on the tabletop. Barth, sensing her distress, glances at her with a worried expression. Merig, too, notices Kate's downturned demeanor and turns his head to regard her with concern. Reaching out, Merig gently takes Kate's hand in his, offering silent comfort. As their eyes meet, he flashes her a reassuring smile. Kate, responding to his warmth, slowly lifts her head and returns his smile, a glimmer of hope replacing the sadness in her eyes.

(B)Hey, Kate, are you okay?

(K)[sigh] Yeah, I’m fine. I’m sorry, Barth, it’s still a bit painful for me. But you all helped me through most of it, so I’m doing much better. However, I do still have nightmares some nights and I’ll wake up in the middle of the night and see Merig laying in the bed with me. I’m afraid I might wake him since he’s a light sleeper. And I’d feel bad if I woke him up if I needed him, so I’ll just cuddle up to him and go back to sleep. He insists I wake him up when it happens, but I don’t want to put that burden on him.

(M)Sweetheart, it’s not a burden at all. I’ve told you to wake me up if you need me and I meant it.

(K)Honey, don’t worry yourself, it’s not as bad as it was in the beginning right after it all happened. They’re just bad dreams, that’s all. I promise that as soon as I wake up and see you sleeping next to me, all my fears go away and I feel so much better. And the nights when you hold me while I sleep, I don’t have those bad dreams.

(M)Well, I guess I’ll just hold you every night, then. If it helps, I’ll do it without question or hesitation.

(K)[smiles] Okay, my love, that would be wonderful. I'd love that so much. But go ahead and finish your conversation with Barth. I’m sorry if I interrupted you.

(M)You have nothing to apologize for, sweetheart.

(B)He’s right, Kate, I’m the one that should be sorry. I’ll try not to mention his name around you. And I’ll stop any conversation if I see you upset, you know that.

(K)I know, it’s okay Barth, I’m not mad at you. I want to overcome all of this and I’m starting to feel like myself again, all thanks to the people I have in my life. I’m so grateful for everything you’ve all done to help me, even when you didn’t have to.

(B)Hey, we were more than happy to go out of our way to be here for you.

(A)Barth is absolutely right, Kate. We love you so much and we’re always here if you need us.

(L)Exactly, you’re like family, and we’d do for you like you’ve done for us.

(K)Oh you guys, I love you all, too. Thank you for all of your support.

(B)It’s no skin off our backs, Kate, we all care about you. And hey just think, you’ll be my sister-in-law soon.

(K)[smiles] That’s right, Barth, we’re going to be family, isn’t it exciting?

(B)Absolutely, I get to call you my sister-in-law. I’m also excited about joining the guards.

(K)Yeah, I just hope you can keep mentoring me and my magic. But I don’t want to overwhelm you.

(B)It’s no problem, I won’t forget about you, sis.

(K)[smiles] Sis…I like that. I’m an only child and the only person who called me sis, was Ash since we grew up together like sisters.

(A)That’s right, girlie! You may not be blood, but you’re still my sister. I love you.

(K)[smiles] I love you, too, Ash. Again, I’m sorry, you and Merig go ahead and finish your conversation.

(M)[chuckles] It’s okay, sweetheart.

Kate gently clutches Merig's arm, seeking his support as she leans in and presses a tender kiss to his cheek. Her head then rests comfortably on his shoulder, a contented smile still playing on her lips. In return, Merig places a soft kiss on Kate's forehead before turning his attention back to Barth, resuming their conversation.

(B)Anyway, after all this downtime I’ve had, I figured it was time I joined the guards as I intended to when I came here, so I’m ready.

(M)Are you sure you can handle it?

(B)[chuckles] Listen, if I can handle 10 years of hell with…him…then I can handle training with my little brother.

(M)But I’m much stronger these days, remember? You’ve seen me fight.

(B)That’s true, but you wouldn’t put your big brother through hell, would you?

(M)I don’t know, how’s it going to feel to have me bossing you around?[smirk]

(B)[sigh] You really want me to answer that?

(M)Come on, Barth, it’ll be fun. And if you train well, I just might make you captain since Larry is second in command.

(B)[chuckles] That’s right, you have that kind of power, don’t you?

(M)Yep, we’ll get to work together and you’d be my equal among the guards. And I’d be your sparring partner and everything. But don’t worry, I’ll go easy on you.

(B)[laughs] We’ll see about that.

(M)I’m looking forward to it.

(B)Me too, you may be the boss, but you‘ll still be my little brother, Merig.

(M)True, and you’ll still be a pain in my ass.

(B)All jokes aside, when can I start?

(M)You can come to the training grounds tomorrow, and I can get you fitted for your gear. Also, you can have your weapon of choice. The armory has everything to choose from. Swords, mana guns, ranged weapons, staves, axes, and even close combat weapons.

(B)I’ll be using magic but I won’t be using a staff. There are special gloves I’d like to use that will help amplify my spells.

(M)I know exactly what you’re talking about, and we do have those gloves.

(B)Perfect, I can even try to use close combat with them, too. I can spar with Gordo and he can train me.

(M)Alright, then it’s settled. You’ll start your training tomorrow.

(B)Excellent, and like I said, Kate, I’ll still help you with your magic.

(K)Don’t worry about it, Barth, we can schedule the days you mentor me differently from your training. But I’d feel bad that you wouldn’t get a day off.

(B)It’s no problem at all, sis, I’ve had all this time to laze around. I want to get this training started.

(A)Besides, you and Merig need to start planning this wedding of yours, ma’am.

(K)[gasp] You’re absolutely right, Ash. I’m so sorry, my love, I've been meaning to talk about it with you.

(M)Don’t be sorry, I’m the one who should be. I’ve been so busy with the guards and spending time with you. We’ll start planning now. I can even take some extra time off if I have to.

(K)I don’t want you to have to do that since you’ll be training Barth. But only if you want to.

(M)Hey, we’re getting married, and this is our wedding we’re planning. It’s more important right now. Besides, if anything, I can have Larry fill in for me.

(K)If that’s okay with Larry.

(L)I’d be okay with that. Merig is right, your wedding is a top priority right now.

(A)They’re right, Kate. The first thing you should plan is, when. Plan the wedding date.

(K)I was thinking of the day Merig confessed his love for me. But that was on my birthday and I can’t have a marriage anniversary and a birthday all on the same day. So I’d better pick a different day.

(M)Well, springtime isn’t too far away. And spring is the perfect season to get married, so I’ve heard.

(K)You’re right, my love, a spring wedding sounds wonderful. It won’t be too hot or cold outside.

(M)So now we have to think about the month and day.

(K)Hmm…how about in April, the month of fertility?

(M)In that case, April is perfect, we’ll do that.

(K)And now the day. If I don’t want to have the wedding on my birthday month, how about we have it on the day? April thirteenth.

(M)That works for me, April thirteenth it is. That’s still two months away, so we’ll have plenty of time to plan.

(A)Okay, so where? Next is the location. Where do you want the wedding to be?

(K)Oh, I have the perfect place for us to get married.

(A)Oh?

(K)Absolutely, if we can’t get married on the day Merig confessed his love for me. I want to get married at the place where he confessed his love for me.

(M)The square?

(K)Exactly, it’s perfect for our wedding, Merig.

(M)[smiles] That’s a wonderful idea, sweetheart. I want to get married at the place where we both confessed our love.

(A)So what about the reception?

(K)Well, I know I want the reception to be at the banquet hall. But I’d have to talk to Eirawen about that, first, and about having the ceremony at the square.

(B)Eirawen? Who’s that?

(K)Oh, she’s the queen of Tara.

(B)The queen?!

(K)Yup, she and I are good friends. After I moved here and started helping people around the city, eventually the queen found out about it. She invited me to meet her one day and so I went to see her and I thought she was mad at me, but she wasn’t. She actually praised me for my altruism and we had a long talk. While we were having tea, I noticed she had a rip in her dress and I, luckily, had a small sewing kit in my bag. I used it to mend her dress, and she thanked me profusely. We’ve been friends ever since and sometimes she invites me over to her castle for tea. She knows I love tea.

(B)Holy shit, Kate, that's amazing. Although I don’t know why I’m so surprised, you make friends with everyone you meet. This entire city loves you.

(A)That’s our Kate.

(L)She’s a saint, I’m telling you.

(K)[blushes] You’re going to make me cry, you’re all too kind.

(G)I don’t think people are kind enough to a person like you, Kate. You’re the angel of Tara.

(K)Oh nonsense, I’m no angel, but thank you Gordo.

Merig snaps his head towards Gordo, his eyes blazing with furious intent as they flash the familiar crimson hue. Gordo's gaze locks with Merig's, and terror flickers across his face as he recoils. A low, maniacal growl emanates from Merig's throat, his voice a chilling whisper that seems to freeze Gordo in place.

(M)You’re right Gordo, Kate is an angel. And I’m the god that will smite you down.

(G)Don’t hurt me.

(K)Oh, Merig, stop it, Gordo said some very kind words to me and you want to be like that to him? You need to start being nicer.

(M)He wasn’t nice to you when he kidnapped you, sweetheart.

(K)[sigh] I can understand that, Merig, but he’s been nothing but wonderful since he got here and you’ve done nothing but terrorize him. I think you’ve put him through enough hell, even after he’s apologized so many times and went through your training when he joined the guards. I forgave Gordo, and it’s time you did, too. I’ve enabled your behavior toward him for this long. You need to stop.

Merig continues to glare at Gordo, his crimson eyes burning into the terrified goblin. Slowly, Merig's gaze softens, the crimson glow fading as he turns his attention to Kate. She meets his gaze with a scowl and a furrowed brow, causing Merig to flinch involuntarily before he lets out a defeated sigh and begins to speak.

(M)[sigh] You’re right, sweetheart, you win. I’ve learned that holding a grudge isn’t the best thing to do. It can hurt the people around you.

(K)Exactly, and we’re not hateful people. And despite everything, Gordo is still your friend. Just try to be nicer to him, you got that? And be more sympathetic to what he went through.

(M)Alright, I’ll do my best, sweetheart.

(K)[sigh] I’m so sorry Gordo.

(G)No need to apologize, Kate. Merig has his reasons and I understand.

(K)I promise you, he won’t put you through that again. Right, Merig?

Kate's scowl deepens as she maintains her unwavering gaze on Merig. He flinches once again under the intensity of her scrutiny. A heavy silence settles between them as Merig seems lost in contemplation. His eyes dart away momentarily before returning to hers. Finally, with another defeated sigh, he lowers his head, acknowledging her unspoken challenge before meeting her eyes again.

(M)Right, I promise, I’ll be nicer to Gordo.

(B)[chuckles] Damn, Merig, you may be the boss of me, but it seems Kate is the boss of you.

(M)[glare] Shut your face, no one asked you.

(L)[chuckles] Hey Kate, did you steal that shiny new spine of his?

(A)[giggles] Hey, we all know he gave it to her willingly. That woman’s word is made of gold, just like Merig’s spine.

(M)[sigh] Yeah, you’re right. You all know I’d do anything for her. Besides, have you seen her get angry? It’s scarier than what you saw when I got angry. The looks Kate gives me send chills down my spine, but I love her.

Merig's face lights up with a radiant smile as he steals a shy glance at Kate, who is bubbling with laughter and joy among their friends. With a gentle touch, he takes her hand, drawing it near to his face, where he softly kisses the back of her hand. A rosy hue spreads across Kate's cheeks as she playfully shakes her head at him, but soon she leans in, and they share a sweet, tender kiss.

(M)I love you, sweetheart, I can’t wait to marry you.

(K)I love you too, my goblin, and I can’t wait to marry you, either.

(A)So, the only thing to do is pay Eirawen a visit, right Kate?

(K)Yep, if we want, we can always send her a letter to inform her that we’ll be visiting. She told me that’s pretty much all I had to do if I wanted to talk to her in person.

(M)Alright then, you can write the letter, and I’ll have one of the guards deliver it.

(K)Sounds good. Oh! One more thing.

(M)What’s that, sweetheart?

(K)I want us to get married at night.

(M)At night? Why?

(K)Because you confessed to me at night under the moon. Besides, the ceremony isn’t usually an all-day thing, so I figured afterward, we could just go to the banquet hall with all the guests and the wedding party and we could dance the night away.

(A)I absolutely love that idea!

(L)Yeah, that’s really sentimental. You always think of the little things, Kate.

(B)A night wedding under the moon, at the square, and a feast with dancing at the banquet hall. Sounds like the perfect wedding to me.

(M)Agreed, and as long as I’m marrying you, Kate, it’s going to be a perfect wedding.

(K)Exactly! I’m also going to ask Eirawen to marry us. I hope she says yes.

(M)Oh, you know she will. She adores you, Kate.

(K)You’re okay with all of this, right Merig?

(M)Honey, as long as I’m marrying you, we can get married here at the pub for all I care.

(K)[giggles] Let’s not do that, but I get it.

(M)I think the square is a perfect place to say “I do”. That’s where we confessed our love and that’s where we danced on our first date. So it’s a very sacred place for us and having it at night is perfect since both events were at night under the moon. If it’s significant to you, then it’s significant to me, too.

(K)I just don’t want to exclude you from any decision-making. I don’t want to be a “Bridezilla”, as people call it.

(A)Oh, Kate honey, you are way too nice of a person to be a Bridezilla. That would be out of the ordinary for you.

(L)She’s right, you’re not as materialistic as some women. You’re a happy-go-lucky person, and you’re thankful to have anything, as long as others around you are happy.

(A)But this is also a time to think about your own happiness since you’re the bride.

(K)Of course, I would never let it go to my head. I’d feel so bad if I made everyone around me miserable.

(M)I’m anything but miserable around you, sweetheart. And I think I speak for everyone else when I say that.

(A)Oh absolutely, we love being around you. There's so much love and joy in your heart that you're not even capable of causing misery.

(L)I second that.

(B)Ash, it's right, we love having you around, sis.

(G)Yeah, you’re one of the kindest humans I know. If anything, you make us less miserable.

(K)[smiles] You all make me less miserable, too. I love you all and I’m especially less miserable with you, my love.

(M)Good, that means I'm doing my job.

(K)I guess I'm doing my job, too. I love you so much.

(M)I love you, too, sweetheart.

The two smile and share a kiss before the group continues the conversation as they finish hanging out at the pub. Later that evening, Kate and Merig are at home, winding down for the night in their sleepwear. Merig slides into bed with Kate, who is sitting up and writing the letter to Queen Eirawen. Kate finishes writing the letter, sticks it in an envelope, and seals it. She then hands the letter to Merig to give to one of the guards, as he said he would.

(K)Here you go, my love. Sealed and ready to go to Eirawen.

(M)Alright, my dear, I’ll send it off to her first thing in the morning.

(K)I can’t wait to talk to her again. We haven’t seen her since after that battle. After she heard what happened, she was hysterical and wanted to see us. I remember as soon as she saw me, she practically leaped at me and hugged me. She cried when she was hugging me, too. She didn’t care who was around. She was just glad that I was okay and even hugged you when she heard what happened to you. She said she didn’t know what she would do without either of us. I love her. She’s such a sweetheart.

(M)Yeah, she is. I swear when she hugged me, I thought she was going to squeeze the air out of me. I had a hard time breathing.[chuckles]

(K)[giggles] She’s such a caring and lovely person and a wonderful queen of this city.

(M)That, she is, when we first came here and met her ten years ago, she was very kind and gracious to Larry and me. She heard our story and was more than happy to let us live here and train with the guards. She saw my skills and potential and it didn’t take long until she decided to give me the title of commander. I trained really hard and worked to keep that title, and she believed in me when no one else did. She made peace with Fomors and was proud to have two defending the city. We became friends with her after a while and she even held a ceremony and celebrated myself and Larry's rank in the Royal Guards.

(K)That’s wonderful, Merig, that sounds like something Eirawen would do.

(M)Yeah, and she was more than happy to meet you when I told her about you. I always told her how amazing you are and what you did for me and other citizens. She was also ecstatic when she heard you and I were together as a couple. She was one of the people who encouraged me to tell you my feelings. She was also the one who had your ring made by a famous jeweler. I told her I’d pay any price, but she insisted on paying for it herself. Once she heard I was proposing to you, she didn’t hesitate to get the details of what I wanted made for you. It arrived about a week later and that’s when I asked you to marry me.

(K)Oh Merig, that’s wonderful of you and Eirawen. I’m gonna have to give her a big hug when we see her. I’m so lucky to have such amazing people in my life and my wonderful goblin that I love very much.

(M)And I’m even luckier to have such a wonderful human in my life, whom I love more than anything. But it still makes me wonder in the back of my mind.

(K)What is it, my love?

(M)This is probably a stupid question. But are you sure you want to marry me?

(K)Of course, I do. I wouldn’t have said yes when you proposed to me if I didn’t. Why do you ask that, Merig?

(M)I don’t know, I guess it’s just me putting myself down again. I guess it’s still hard to believe how lucky I am that you're with me and that you agreed to marry me…a Fomor.

Kate initially gazes at Merig with a frown, but soon her expression softens as she offers him a sentimental smile. Rising from her seated position on the bed, she moves closer to Merig. Kneeling before him, she swings her left leg over his lap and straddles him. Sitting on his lap, she is now almost at eye level with Merig. Kate tenderly places both of her hands on his cheeks, gently touching and caressing him. Merig's eyes widen at Kate's bold move, but then he gazes deeply into her eyes with a smile.

(K)Now, you listen here, Commander Merig Flynn. I love you so much and I will be more than happy and proud to be your wife and to call you my husband. I don’t regret a damn thing that has happened between us, so don’t you think for one second that I don’t want to marry you because of what you are. And what a coincidence, you had the same fear when you confessed your love for me. And guess what? I confessed the same love for you. And when you asked me to be your wife, I was a thousand…no, a million percent sure that I want to have this wedding and become your wife, your human. And I’m a million percent sure that I want you to be my husband, my goblin. There’s no doubt in my mind that this is what I want, and I have no doubt that you love me and I love you. There’s nothing about you that would make me not want to marry you, and I will be more than happy to be with you for the rest of our lives. You’re always so good to me, Merig, and I don’t want anyone else, not even another human, to be with. No human man could ever love me as much as you do and I could never love a human man romantically as much as I love you. When I have you and this wonderful life that I‘m living right now, how could I not want this for myself? I belong to you, Merig, and I will happily give myself to you in marriage.

(M)I understand, I want this, too and you’re so good to me, Kate, and I don’t want any other human but you. I belong to you and I’m more than happy to be with you forever. The pride that I will feel being able to call you my wife is insurmountable. Numbers can’t even begin to describe how sure I am that I want to marry you and for you to be my wife, my human. No other woman could ever be as loving and caring and more amazing than you, Kate, and I can’t imagine myself with anyone else or in another life, especially without you in it. Sometimes it still feels as if I’m in a dream, but I pinch myself and I know it’s real when I look at you, or touch you, or kiss you, or make love to you.[sigh] I guess I just feel I don’t deserve you sometimes, but you’ve shown me otherwise.

As Merig expresses his heartfelt sentiments, Kate's lips tremble, and her eyes redden as tears begin to flow down her cheeks. Merig gazes at her with compassion, gently cupping her face in his hands and wiping away her tears, both of them sharing a tender smile. Leaning closer, Kate kisses Merig and then takes a deep breath, her voice quivering as she continues to speak.

(K)Sometimes I feel the same, Merig, but then I realize I must have done something good to deserve all of this and I’m so thankful for it. I know it’s real, too, when I feel you touch me, or kiss me, or make love to me, or hold me at night. You chase all of my fears and nightmares away and all I have to do is be in your arms and I feel nothing but love and peace. I’ve already told you that I can’t imagine my life without you and I almost lived that nightmare that I dread so much. No one is ever going to take you away from me again. They’d have to kill me, first.

(M)That’s right, and I’m here with you because you brought me back and I’m forever grateful, Kate. I saved you and you saved me.

(K)And I’ll keep doing it if I have to, Merig, whether you want me to or not. Just as you’d do for me, I’d do the same for you and I’ve proven that to you.

(M)You’re right and I’m so thankful for you and for being here with you. I promise, I would never doubt your love for me, because you show it to me every day. I just doubt myself sometimes and wonder how I got so lucky. Before I knew how you felt about me, I would’ve never imagined that I’d be so lucky and privileged enough to have someone as beautiful and wonderful as you in my life who loves me and shows me as much love as you do. I’ll try not to doubt myself or question the life that I have anymore. Because it’s clear that I’ve been blessed by some god and that very same god sent me an angel…no…a goddess.

(K)You think too highly of me, Merig. I’m only human I promise. I never imagined I’d be living this life either, but I am. I’m just as lucky and as blessed as you and I wouldn’t trade my life for any other life in this world. I would never doubt your love for me, either, because of how much love you give me. Stop doubting yourself and putting yourself down, Merig, and just keep reminding yourself that I love you and I will never stop loving you.

(M)I will, I promise. If you let me, I’ll sit right next to you on that big pedestal and show the world how wonderful you are and how wonderful my life is.

(K)That pedestal doesn’t just belong to me, there’s always room for two, trust me. I too, will gladly show the world how lucky I am to have you in my life. But for now, it may be nighttime, but I’m pretty sure it’s still your day off. Which means we still have time to spend together before you start Barth’s training tomorrow.

(M)You’re absolutely right, I may just take tomorrow off to make up for it.

(K)Don’t do that. Barth has been looking forward to joining the guards. We can always make up for lost time on your next day off. We can even put a “Do not disturb” sign on the door if we have to.

(M)[chuckles] I’ll definitely do that.

The two exchange a tender smile, their fingers entwined in a gentle caress. Merig, with a passionate glint in his eye, lifts Kate’s glasses from her face and places them delicately on his bedside table. As Kate leans in for a kiss, Merig envelops her in his embrace, and his hands begin to glide soothingly along her back. Gradually, he lets his hands wander lower, brushing against her legs, before he gently lifts her flowing nightdress, revealing her bare thighs. With a soft touch, he traces his fingers along her legs, their kisses deepening in intimacy. Eventually, she pulls back slightly, her gaze locking onto his. A soft smile graces her lips as she speaks in a gentle whisper.

(K)I love you, my goblin.

(M)I love you, too, my human.

Their lips lock once more in an unbreakable embrace as Merig rises from his seated position on the bed. With Kate still straddling him, Merig's strong arms envelop her delicate figure. Gently, he turns her onto her back, his body now positioned above hers as her legs wrap around his torso. With a swift motion, Merig rises to his knees and removes his clothing, tossing them carelessly to the floor. Stripped naked, he holds himself up on top of Kate, leaning down to resume their passionate kissing. His hands explore her body, caressing her legs and sliding up her nightdress to expose more of her naked body. Slowly, he finishes undressing her, admiring every inch of her naked body with his gaze before returning to kiss her tender lips once more. As they exchange kisses filled with longing and passion, Merig tenderly touches every part of Kate's body before they succumb to another intimate moment and make love. After they finish, Merig's familiar laugh explodes as he tries to stifle it, while Kate giggles at the sound of it. The two then lie together in bed, naked and intertwined in each other's embrace as they continue to kiss and eventually drift off into a peaceful sleep.