Faer Pride

Chapter 1

Lamerion is a land tended by the six Goddesses that watch over the balance of life on the once fair and fertile realm. The three races of Faer that shared Lamerion with the animals and the plants and the waters had both aided and hindered the Goddesses’ tasks yet life had thrived for millions of years and a close bond had existed between all forms of life on the fair Lamerion.

Then the realm had seen the first signs of the evil that would soon gain too great a hold on the land to be banished with ease. Bekchers had come to the far north and within weeks had destroyed all life from the Suveyus Sea to the Onoik Mountains. Only the arrival of larger and fiercer winged Dragons had prevented the destruction of the entire realm.

Three unique races of Goblins had appeared nearly eight hundred years later seemingly without warning. The evil beasts threatened all forms of life that had made Lamerion their home as they grew in numbers and spread too quickly over the land.

The six Goddesses had watched with grief as Their precious charge had quickly succumbed to the evil that now raped the land. For nearly a century They could only watch and try to renew as the Goblins’ destruction spread like fire over the land that They nurtured. Then Trolls had appeared in the far south and the lesser Goddesses had pleaded with the greatest to intervene before all was lost yet They had been forced to wait until Lady Weling would declare it time to act.

They had waited until long after the birth of the Feenin Fae that would change the course of Lamerion forever. Evil had never before dwelt within the heart of any Fae yet in Lord Jolten, nephew to the Queen, a darkness seethed that rivaled that of the Goblins and the Bekchers and the Trolls. A threat now existed in Lamerion worse than anything that the realm had seen before and Lady Weling finally assented to aiding the Faer in a way that They never had before, in the only way that They could.

A babe was given to the Faer of Lamerion and soon a family of Feenin, Atilles, and Satran Faer was created through their trials together to protect the babe. Love had only deepened further as they followed the will of the Goddesses and traveled through darkness and danger to their first destination.

Yet their journey was far from finished and as the family settled in to sleep more than two months after arriving at Culist Marsh, Lady Weling once again entered the dreams of the youngest Satran maiden…

~~~

A petite wingless maiden woke within the dark cavern that had been home to her and to her companions for nearly two months. Large green-gold eyes could barely make out the vague forms of her companions in the darkness as she looked around worriedly before wiggling around to stare at the Feenin Prince that held her in his arms. At her movement Balan’s arms loosened slightly yet her sleeping partner did not wake as he had become accustomed to the restlessness that consumed Salisa even in her sleep. The small maiden smiled fondly at the sleeping male before she lifted herself up onto one elbow and put her hand to the handsome face, stroking gently with the tips of her fingers.

Salisa? Balan rasped sleepily and opened his eyes to search the delicate face revealed only to his superior vision in the faint light of their combined luminescence. Are you well?

Did you know that you’re very handsome in your sleep? Salisa grinned impishly and wiggled until she had pushed Balan onto his back and was lying on top of the larger winged Fae.

Are you implying that I am not handsome when I am awake? Balan grinned teasingly at his secret love and wrapped his arms around the narrow waist. His head lay relaxed against the cushion that they shared and his brown eyes closed tiredly. I am hurt, little one.

Balan?

Aye? The Feenin male forced his eyes open once again and his left hand began to gently stroke up and down the slender back.

What is wrong, Salisa? Tahlir, their leader and healer, called from a short distance away.

I had another dream. Salisa sighed and laid her forehead on Balan’s chin as she answered the Atilles male. It made me sad.

Tahlir sat up in his bedroll and ran both of his hands through his nearly black hair while he attempted to focus his silver-grey eyes on the small maiden in the darkness of the cavern that had been their haven from the dangers of Lamerion. After a moment the Atilles warrior got to his feet and stretched his two broad triangular wings even as he carefully made his way through the dark forms of their other companions. A moment later the pale light of a single candle lit Tahlir’s face as he turned from their benefactress’s wardrobe and returned to the awake members of their newly formed family.

Since you did not wake us all with a bloodcurdling scream, Tahlir asked quietly with a slight quirk to his lips, may I assume that nothing sinister is about to occur?

Nay, Salisa answered and lifted her head, her freshly trimmed short copper-colored curls shining warmly in the light of the single candle. It’s merely time to move on.

So soon? Tahlir frowned slightly then turned to look at the other Satran maiden, Linna, whose brown eyes met his own silver ones in the pale light. Wake the others, Linna.

Aye, Sir.

The older Satran maiden hurried to obey their leader and only a few minutes later all nine of the cavern’s occupants were awake and gathered together on the pile of cushions that served as their beds and seats in the sparsely furnished cavern found inside of three monstrous boulders near the edge of Culist Marsh. Salisa described her dream in great detail and then allowed her companions to absorb the message and form their own conclusions in silence for many minutes.

We were only beginning to make this home our own, Ryann whispered from Ninlow’s arms.

Aelikka, a Feenin babe with light brown hair nearly the same hue as her adoptive father’s hair, was sitting on the maiden’s lap and holding up her own head proudly as her adoptive mother steadied her. The golden-haired Atilles maiden was genuinely saddened at the news that they would be leaving Culist Marsh so soon.

There must be some mistake, Shanlin, the newest addition to their family, whispered hoarsely from where she sat on her healing bed above their heads. Just over two months prior the Feenin maiden had been severely injured in a battle with evil wolves sent to Lamerion by Jolten yet that event was only the most recent in a long history of violence that had left much of the maiden scarred and her voice irreparably damaged. I cannot possibly go with you.

You certainly can and you must, Salisa argued. Lady Weling said that you had to.

You are healed enough, Tahlir said quietly. We have the cart still and we will make it available for you to rest when you have need. We must keep the goat and at least a few of the chickens yet the last hog will need to be smoked and the remaining chickens prepared for us to eat until we reenter good hunting grounds. Everything that we have gathered and stored to see us through the coming winter will be packed to take with us as well.

I will also prepare enough bread to last us a few days. Ninlow offered.

Thank you, Ninlow, Tahlir said quietly and adjusted his position, lifting one knee and resting his forearm atop it. Now we must discover a way to fulfill the Goddesses’ errand.

The yellow rock. Linna tilted her head to the side and caused her black hair to swing around her shoulders softly. Shanlin revealed that it is the rock that gives this marsh its stench. Perhaps it is also responsible for the fouling of the water.

How can we test your theory and will it work in waters that are not heated? Prince Balan frowned in contemplation.

We simply fill a pot with water and let it cool. Once it has reached the temperatures of the other waters of Lamerion, we place a sample of the yellow rock into it and test the outcome.

I do not understand, Giden said quietly. This Fae was also of dark hair and without the wings of his older companions and his light blue eyes revealed his trepidation. Born with his left side weak and twisted, the young Satran male was wary of the danger that he knew that they would face should they leave the protection of the Three Sisters. Why do we need to be the ones to do this? Surely there are others that could go there.

Without water Faer and animals and plants perish, Balan said almost curtly.

The smell that we would carry with us should we take those rocks will make it near impossible to travel without notice, Tahlir said and his sharp silver gaze met Balan’s brown and immediately calmed the Prince. Ninlow, do you believe that you can continue to practice with your invention as we travel?

I believe so, Sir, and we should be able to find suitable missiles more easily once we are back in the forest. Ninlow, a Satran Fae taller and stronger than most of his race, held his new bride’s hand as his blue-grey eyes met Tahlir’s with the quiet confidence that had only begun to replace his shy subservience.

We will not be going the way that we came. Tahlir’s words had all of his companions staring at him in disbelief.

How else are we going to travel to Waterdell? Salisa breathed.

You cannot mean for us to travel in the plains? Linna asked at the same time.

Plasin Forest is too dangerous for Aelikka. Balan frowned at his friend before Tahlir could answer the maidens. There have been too many sightings of Mountain Goblins in the last years, Tahlir.

We will use the trees of Plasin Forest to shield us until we are north of our destination.

Then do you plan for us to walk the three days of travel over Escolis Fields? Linna’s dark eyes stared at Tahlir in disbelief.

Did you all forget Regart Chasm? Tahlir shook his dark head at his companions with a grin. Do any of you doubt the success that we had there?

Even assuming that we managed to kill a large number of Flying Goblins—, Linna began.

There are still Water Goblins and Mountain Goblins and Thyride, Salisa finished, earning impatient glances from the others. What?

Mountain Goblins do not stray far from their caves and must remain in the shadows, Tahlir explained patiently to the youngest maiden, save the babe. Water Goblins are the same with their watery dens, remember?

There are still Thyride, Ninlow pointed out softly.

Aye, they are still a threat. However, other than the attack on the Palace there have never been reports of any band of Thyride greater than two dozen. We can handle such a threat with ease now that you have all had time to practice and to hone your weapons skills. We also now have Shanlin with us and as I taught her to fight myself, that is no insignificant factor.

I have not yet agreed to go with you, Shanlin, the Prince’s Feenin cousin and Tahlir’s longtime friend, growled and left her bed to stand on shaky legs.

Lady Weling said—

I do not particularly care what Lady Weling said, Salisa. Shanlin glared repressively at the small maiden and Salisa cowered against Giden who started in surprise and then wrapped his strong right arm around the younger Fae. Never have the Goddesses lowered themselves to aid me when I needed—

Do not be so certain of that, young one. Lady Gylea materialized so suddenly that Salisa was not the only Fae to jump in surprise. Garbed as before in a layered skirt and top of many green leaves, the Goddess of the Plants filled the unpleasant-smelling cavern with the fresh scent of the forest and added a slight green glow to the dim cave. Our aid to you and to all of your kind is not always as blatant as it has been recently yet you have not been left without Our benevolence. Do you not recall your own surprise at the appearance of game when your hunger nearly overwhelmed you? How many times did you reach your destination before nightfall while despairing that you would not? Marrina Herself is often near and provided this shelter for you, Lady Shanlin, as well as gifted you with healing in these last months. We have not always given you what you wanted, yet We have never withheld that which you needed.

I-I did not realize. Shanlin wavered on her feet and Lady Gylea stepped forward to steady the tallest mortal female.

You have been too blinded by your own pain, young one, the Goddess of the Plants said sadly. It is time for you to open your eyes and to open your heart. You will go with your cousin and his companions and you will accept them as your family.

If I do not?

Then you will choose to reject something more precious than anything that We could give you.

Lady Gylea! Salisa jumped to her feet. She took a step forward before losing her balance and falling onto Balan’s lap. Oh, I’m sorry, Balan. Are you all right?

Of course. Balan closed his eyes.

What is it, Lady Salisa? Lady Gylea released Shanlin and turned toward Salisa who held Tahlir’s and Balan’s shoulders for balance as she climbed off of the cushions.

I have a question for you. Salisa bounced over to the Goddess with a brilliant smile.

Aye? Lady Gylea smiled lovingly into wide green-gold eyes and took Salisa’s hands in Her own.

May I please have an apple? I’ve been needing one so much lately!

Salisa! Ryann, Ninlow, and Linna gasped in horror.

Is this something that you want, Lady Salisa, or is this something that you need? Lady Gylea asked without offense.

Need, Salisa said after a moment. I’d let Balan fly me all the way to the stars to taste an apple so I think that means that I need one.

Do you think that I can simply make an apple appear for your pleasure?

Aye. The expression on the delicate face clearly stated that Salisa thought that the question was absurd.

"Are you certain that you do not merely wish for an apple?"

"I’m certain. I need one very badly."

Perhaps you are expecting a babe, Balan muttered to himself yet more than one companion looked toward the Prince in shock.

‘A babe’? Salisa shrieked in shock. Did you get me with Faeling, Balan? I’m too young to be a mother!

I certainly did not. Balan glared over his shoulder at the Satran female that he secretly loved. We made love only once, Salisa, and that was months ago.

Oh, thank goodness for that. You scared me, honey. Salisa exhaled dramatically then turned back to the Goddess. May I please have an apple now, Lady Gylea? Please?

This misunderstanding must not continue. Lady Gylea released one of Salisa’s hands and lifted Hers between them, palm up. A moment later a large red apple appeared on Her glimmering palm to be snatched out of Her hand by the ecstatic Salisa. With a wave of Her hand a pile of ripe apples appeared on the cushions as well. Lord Giden, please speak to Prince Balan.

About what? Giden’s light blue eyes were wide with awe as he stared at the Goddess.

You will know. Lady Gylea then turned Her attention to Tahlir. Lord Tahlir, please do not tarry here. Marrina greatly needs your aid.

Our aid? Tahlir blinked in surprise yet his question received no answer as the Goddess of the Plants had already disappeared. After a moment of shock, the healer spoke to his companions with his disbelief audible in his voice. It is unfathomable that the Goddess of the Water requires our aid.

She can’t drown the Water Goblins, Salisa said around a bite of apple. We have to kill them.

So we must travel back to Waterdell and eliminate the Goblins at their stronghold. Tahlir frowned thoughtfully for a moment and then turned to his lifelong friend. Are you thinking what I am thinking, Balan?

I do not think it likely. Balan’s brown eyes were unfocused as he stared through the pile of apples. What are you thinking?

He is thinking that this will be the second time that we have eliminated a nest of a race of Goblins, Linna said shrewdly. Our small family is being asked to do more than merely protect Aelikka.

If we can do this then we will have accomplished more in the battle against the Goblins with few numbers and in much less time than any other offensive strategy thus far. Balan?

Aye?

Where is your head?

Likely stuck where mine is, Ninlow whispered tensely. I keep seeing Salisa quicken with Balan’s Faeling over and over in my mind.

Salisa inhaled loudly in shock behind the two oldest males and the leader jumped to his feet as Salisa began to choke on the bite of apple that had become lodged in her airway. The healer placed his arms around the small maiden and his fist below her sternum then forced the piece of fruit out of her throat. Balan caught the projectile before it could hit him in the face and turned back to Ninlow as Salisa coughed in Tahlir’s hold and tried to reclaim her breath.

Your fears are unwarranted, Ninlow. The Feenin Fae met the blue-grey eyes of Salisa’s lifelong friend. The circumstances surrounding that night were not conducive to making such a decision. Salisa does not carry my babe.

Can we talk about something else? Salisa nearly begged as she and Tahlir rejoined the others. Salisa took the piece of apple that she had choked on from Balan’s hand and put it back into her mouth.

That is disgusting, Salisa. Linna made a face at the other Satran maiden and her black hair swung around her face as Linna shook her head.

Why? It’s my own spit. Salisa chewed happily. These apples are delicious. You all should have one too.

My dear husband and I will see to preparing and packing the food. Ryann took an apple from the cushions and took a dainty bite. The Atilles maiden then offered the fruit to her husband and Ninlow leaned over to sink his teeth into the apple that the golden-haired maiden held for him. I love you, Ninlow.

I love you, sweet lady, Ninlow whispered before they shared an apple-flavored kiss.

Balan and I will see to getting a sample of the yellow rock, Tahlir said as they all politely looked away from the newly wedded couple. Linna, Shanlin, will you two assess what we have in way of other supplies and make certain that we have not misplaced anything?

What should Giden and I do? Salisa asked then took another bite of her quickly disappearing apple.

Try to stay out of trouble. Tahlir snickered as Salisa swatted her hand at him playfully.

Chapter 2

This isn’t right, Salisa whispered as she walked beside Linna two days later. It’s not supposed to be this way.

What are you talking about? Linna frowned at Salisa briefly then reached out to steady the maiden as Salisa tripped over a depression in the ground.

Thank you. Salisa looked over her shoulder at the Faer behind them and promptly tripped once again. Ouch!

You should consider watching where you are going. Linna shook her head in disbelief. We have only left Shanlin’s home, Salisa. It would not do for you to injure yourself a mere ten minutes after the start of our journey.

This ground does not like me, Salisa pouted and climbed to her feet as Shanlin walked gracefully past them. I can’t walk over it, Linna. I haven’t been able to walk more than a few feet without falling since we came here.

You had no trouble walking with Giden, Balan said unemotionally as he pushed the cart past them and then Ninlow stepped forward to help heft the heavy conveyance out of the trench in their path. Perhaps you should do so again.

He’d get hurt. Salisa shook her head and began walking again as Ryann came forward to walk on her left side as Linna walked on her right. Both older maidens linked their arms with Salisa’s in an effort to keep the smallest maiden on her feet. Don’t you see that this is all wrong, Ryann?

What is ‘wrong’? Ryann asked softly then smiled as her adopted daughter, Aelikka, giggled in her carrier attached to the golden-haired maiden’s chest. Now that the babe was older and her young muscles were stronger the carrier had been adjusted to hold the babe vertically instead of horizontally as before.

Salisa, have you forgotten how to be quiet? Tahlir asked impatiently as he came back to meet them with Giden’s right arm over his shoulders.

The healer was careful to balance Giden as the malformed Fae attempted to walk over the treacherous ground with his prosthetic. The two males made a striking pair with their dark hair and light eyes. Tahlir’s hair was longer, nearly brushing his shoulders, and his silver eyes were admonishing Salisa now while Giden’s light blue eyes were filled with compassion.

See? Salisa looked up at Ryann. That is wrong. And Balan being so curt is wrong. And you and Ninlow are not together and that’s wrong too. This is all wrong and I don’t like it. Something bad is going to happen just like the last time. I’m going back.

Salisa pulled free of the maidens’ holds on her arms and began to sprint back the way that they had just come. Her companions merely watched her race back toward the three giant boulders that had been their home for the last few months with impatience or concern or confusion. Ninlow had just decided to go after his lifelong friend when something large fell out of the sky and snatched Salisa off of her feet and off of the ground.

Frozen for a moment in shock they all watched in disbelief as Salisa was carried swiftly away by the dark shape that had hidden itself far above in the open sky. Then Balan and Shanlin were in the air and their wings beat quickly against the pull of the ground as they raced to catch up to the quickly retreating Thyride that had taken their Salisa.

Sir? Ninlow turned anxiously toward Tahlir. Why aren’t you following them?

I could not possibly keep up nor overtake that beast. Tahlir was glowering at the three boulders that Salisa had not managed to reach. Let us return to the Three Sisters and await their arrival with Salisa.

The miles disappeared quickly beneath Balan and Shanlin as they used all four of their elliptical Feenin wings to propel them as quickly as they could after the Thyride in front of them. Salisa had not cried out a single time since she had been captured and Balan’s heart weighed heavily in his chest with fear and despair.

Nearly a half hour passed and the sun began to sink in the west before they reached the end of the marshland below them and the two Feenin Faer were able to finally take in a lungful of clean air, feeling the freshness enter their bodies and invigorate their very blood and enabling them to finally begin to close the distance between themselves and the Thyride holding Salisa’s silent body. Then the beast banked to the right and gained altitude as it turned north and aimed for Plasin Forest blanketing the Onoik Mountains.

The change in direction and altitude slowed the chasing Faer and Balan growled as they followed once again at a fixed distance behind the Thyride for nearly another two hours. Beside him Shanlin’s breath was coming faster and louder and the Prince began to worry that he would be forced to chose between Salisa and Shanlin as his cousin’s speed began to slow and she fell slightly behind in their race to Salisa’s aid.

Do not wait for me, Shanlin called as if she could read Balan’s thoughts. You cannot allow it to take Salisa across the mountains. Go, Cousin, and I will follow as I can.

I love you, Shanlin, Balan replied guiltily and forced his wings to beat harder and faster.

Soon the distance between Balan and Shanlin grew as the Prince was able to close the distance between himself and the Thyride. The forest below began to thin as they approached the summit of the Onoik Mountains and Balan’s fear grew to nearly unbearable yet the Prince used that depth of emotion to channel more strength into his wings. Then a gust of wind caught him and Balan nearly crowed in relief as his difficult task was eased and he was carried with even greater speed toward the Thyride.

Balan was not overly surprised a moment later as Shanlin reappeared at his side. The maiden drew her sword, as did Balan, and they neared their target swiftly with Lady Breelith’s, the Goddess of the Air, aid. Balan’s eyes met the horrifying ones of the Thyride as it looked back at him then Balan’s heart stopped as Salisa was released just as the forest line ended to fall nearly a hundred yards toward the hard ground below.

Get her! Shanlin shouted. I will take it down.

Balan angled his wings and dived toward the ground and Salisa. Shanlin was nearly shoved forward by the very air and a moment later her sword sliced through the left wings of their enemy. Shanlin followed as the now-bleeding Thyride careened out of control toward the ground to land with a bone-shattering crunch on the rocky mountainside. Shanlin landed on her feet beside the downed beast and shoved her sword through the remaining prominent wing, anchoring the former Feenin Fae to the ground.

Is it dead? Balan landed beside Shanlin with Salisa in his arms.

Nay. Shanlin panted and walked a short distance away then finally allowed herself to sink to her knees as she attempted to reclaim her breath and ease the strain that she had placed on her still-healing body. It still breathes.

Salisa? Balan fell to his knees beside his cousin and gently set Salisa’s limp body on the ground. His hands trembled as he ran them over the slender body in search of injury or his greatest fear, a bite. "Aiya, please."

Was she bitten? Shanlin reached forward and began tugging at Salisa’s clothing.

I do not see any blood.

Let us hope not. Shanlin examined Salisa’s now-bare arm quickly. It has been too long to save her.

Do you think that I do not know that? Balan growled in his fear and pain. I could feel the passing of time just as you could.

It appears that the beast was too intent on its escape to bite her. Shanlin readjusted Salisa’s clothing then put her hand on her cousin’s shoulder. Did you hear me, Balan?

Why then is she wandering? Balan removed his waterskin from his satchel quickly then let a small amount of the clean water trickle into the open green-gold eyes. His shaking hands then closed the eyelids against the sight of the seemingly lifeless eyes and he set his waterskin aside.

Tahlir told me of this gift that she has yet I did not believe him.

Are you well, Shanlin? Balan asked after a moment of silence.

Other than being on the mountainside in the darkness of night with an evil beast and a ‘wandering’ Fae, I have been worse. Shanlin lifted her head and examined the area around them.

The Thyride came back to consciousness with a pained growl and Shanlin immediately jumped to her feet then went to stand over the beast and ensure that her sword held it securely. The nearly black eyes surrounded by the bloodred sclera opened and locked on the Feenin maiden’s face and cracked lips curled in a hateful sneer.

Why did you take the Satran maid? Shanlin asked coldly and placed her bare foot on the obvious fracture in the Thyride’s lower wing. Who sent you?

"Jolten!" The Thyride then screamed as Shanlin’s weight pressed downward on the cracked bone.

Did he tell you why?

He… wanted… one! The long thin body arched in agony, its words forced out between gritted teeth.

‘One’ what? Shanlin lifted her weight off of the broken wing as Balan joined her with Salisa in his arms.

One of the… Prince’s companions.

What are you?

I am Thyride. The horrible eyes opened once more and begged Shanlin for mercy.

You are not a normal Thyride. Shanlin pressed down slightly once again on the broken bone in answer to the plea. How did you come to be this way?

"Jolten! By His blood!"

We must go, Cousin, Balan said tightly with his eyes now focused behind the Feenin maid. Leave it for the Goblins.

Shanlin nodded once then pulled her sword free before sheathing it quickly. A moment later they were high above the ground and flying south over Plasin Forest at a much slower pace than they had traveled before. Balan watched over his cousin carefully and when he judged her to be in need of a respite the Prince insisted that they land and rest.

This is beyond my abilities at the moment, Balan, Shanlin admitted reluctantly after the third such rest. Balan looked up from wetting Salisa’s eyes once again, his brow furrowed in concern for it was now five hours since they had left their companions and they were not yet halfway back to the Three Sisters. I cannot fly any longer.

There is no shame in that, Shanlin, Balan whispered quietly. Only a few short weeks have passed since you were grievously wounded. I will carry you as well.

Do you have the strength?

Aye, Balan replied simply and returned his attention to the seemingly lifeless body in his arms. Salisa? Please, return to us.

As they had since Balan had reclaimed Salisa, his words received no response. The Prince continued to speak to the small maiden, however, until it was time to resume their journey. Shanlin aided Balan in securing Salisa to his chest then stepped forward and used her own hold on the Prince to keep Salisa in place. Carefully adjusting her wings, Shanlin felt Balan’s hands lock behind her back beneath her wings and then they were once again in the sky. The Feenin Faer locked their legs together and pinned Salisa’s between them.

Nearly two hours later Balan finally lowered them carefully into the campsite at Culist Marsh sheltered by the stone giants. Tahlir, Giden, and Linna awaited them with Aelikka and hurried to greet them as Balan landed. Shanlin quickly released her hold while Salisa was adjusted in Balan’s arms.

Where are Ninlow and Ryann? Balan asked worriedly.

They are inside, Linna answered and caught Shanlin’s arm before the older maiden could enter the cavern. Ninlow was beside himself and Ryann is attempting to distract him.

Why is she wandering? Tahlir demanded anxiously as he stared at Salisa in Balan’s arms. Was she hurt?

We could find no injury. Balan placed Salisa into the healer’s arms.

Salisa? Tahlir called sternly. Come back to us at once!

All right. Salisa’s eyes blinked repeatedly before locking on Tahlir’s face. I told you that something was wrong. Why won’t you listen to me? I’m not a brainless Faeling.

I have been calling for you to return for more than four hours, Salisa, Balan gritted harshly to disguise his pain, yet Tahlir merely says it once and you come rushing back to him? Do you have any notion of how insulting that is?

I don’t like to fly, remember, honey? I thought it best if I just watched instead of coming back, Salisa retorted and wiggled to be let down. As her feet touched the ground Ninlow burst out of the cavern entrance with Ryann on his heels while Giden, who had left to inform them of their arrival, followed more slowly. Ninlow!

Salisa! Ninlow swept Salisa off of her feet and into his arms for a crushing hug. Oh, my sweet Salisa!

As the others greeted Salisa with hugs and kisses and great commotion, Tahlir examined Shanlin and learned of the terrible truth that Shanlin had forced from the Thyride then they were all herded into the shelter within the stone. Shanlin was sent into the bathing chamber for a relaxing soak by the light of a single candle while Tahlir made her a tonic to relieve her pain and the tightness of her muscles. Salisa was happily enfolded on Ninlow’s lap in near darkness as Giden and Ryann sat near and continued to reassure themselves that she was well while also thanking Balan repeatedly for rescuing their adopted sister.

Balan paced the chamber restlessly while his righteous indignation grew to frightening proportions. Tahlir watched his friend thoughtfully, as did Salisa, then Shanlin left the bathing chamber and the occupants of the cave turned their considerable gratitude and concern toward her. The Feenin maiden soon found herself in her bed with a warm mug of tea in hand and Ryann’s hands adjusting her furs around her.

Tahlir jerked his dark head at the bathing chamber when Balan looked at him and a moment later the Prince had left the main cavern for the hot pools of soothing water. Salisa pulled herself from Ninlow’s arms and stood and then turned toward the bathing chamber.

Salisa? Ninlow frowned in concern.

I have to, Ninlow. Salisa looked back at her family behind her. It’s one of the things that aren’t right. Don’t come in, all right?

Salisa, he’s very angry right now.

He won’t hurt me, Salisa said in reassurance then walked quickly across the cavern and into the bathing chamber before she could lose her courage. Balan?

Leave me alone, Salisa, Balan gritted from the lower pool.

Salisa ignored the angry order and removed her clothing with trembling hands before sinking into the hot water with Balan. The Prince growled and surged to his feet and a heartbeat later was in the larger pool. Salisa scrambled over the divider to rejoin him and had not even sat down before she was again crawling over the rock divider and into the other pool as she followed the Feenin male.

I’m going to keep following you, Salisa threatened yet her words were unnecessary as Balan made no move to switch pools again and even extended his legs as if settling down to relax. Salisa smiled in relief and sat down. I have something to say to you.

I have nothing to say to you. Balan closed his eyes, folding his arms over his chest and crossing his ankles in affected casualness.

We are supposed to be friends, Balan, Salisa whispered and eyed the long legs propped on the edge of the pool. You can tell me why you’ve been avoiding me these last few days and why you’re so angry right now.

We have been occupied with preparing to leave. I was not avoiding you.

Balan, did you ever speak to Giden like Lady Gylea told you to? Salisa’s sweet giggle filled the stone chamber as Balan looked at her in surprise. I’m not simple, honey. I noticed you pulling away from me again the moment that you mentioned that ridiculous thought that I might be with Faeling. You should have done what Lady Gylea said and talked to Giden.

For what purpose, Salisa? Balan closed his eyes and leaned his head back again. I cannot see how such a discussion would benefit me in any way.

That’s because you won’t talk to him, Salisa said and then moved in the water until she could straddle Balan’s hips and laid herself down on his chest, her arms worming their way beneath his head. Did I thank you, Balan, for rescuing me?

You did not. Balan stiffened and he refused to return his secret love’s embrace.

How silly of me, Salisa whispered and leaned forward then brushed her lips across the Prince’s. Thank you, honey.

Jolten is creating a new race of Thyride. Balan forced his thoughts onto a new path to ignore the sweet agony of Salisa’s nude body atop his.

Giden and I are not lovers, sweet Balan. Salisa pressed her cheek against Balan’s and whispered into the Feenin Fae’s pointed ear. And after the secret that I learned this morning when you caught us in here, there’s no possibility that we ever will be.

What? Balan’s eyes opened and he moved his hands to push Salisa away enough for him to read her expression, the poor lighting not hindering the Feenin Fae. Why not?

I can’t tell you that, honey. Salisa grinned mischievously. You have to talk to Giden.

Did he hurt you? Balan sat up and glowered toward the main chamber as though he could see the malformed Satran Fae through the dark drapes. If he hurt you—

You sound just like Ninlow. Salisa giggled softly and climbed off of the Prince with a lowered head. Move forward and I will wash your hair and back and your wings for you.

Giden! Balan yelled loudly as Salisa left the pool to retrieve the soap and a washing cloth. The curtain parted just as Salisa returned to the stone bathing pool and moved to kneel behind Balan. We need to speak, Giden.

All right, Balan. Giden shifted his weight between his right leg and the prosthetic nervously. Did I do something wrong?

Lady Gylea told you to talk to him, Salisa reminded her friend with a wide smile. Wet your hair, Balan. You can join us if you wish, Giden.

I don’t think…, Giden began to decline the offer, his light blue eyes falling to the twisted hand at his navel hidden by his left sleeve.

You don’t want to be standing for this discussion, brother-mine, Salisa interrupted then began to soap Balan’s now-wet hair.

Nay! Giden nearly wailed. "You told him?"

I didn’t tell him anything except that you and I are not lovers. Salisa eyed her friend in shock. If you want to keep your secret between us three you probably shouldn’t talk so loud.

A family should not keep secrets from one another, Tahlir said as he entered the chamber and turned his piercing silver eyes on Giden. Are you all right, Giden?

I’m not certain, Giden whispered and stared at Salisa with wide eyes. I can’t tell anyone else, Salisa. I can’t.

Oh. Salisa’s hands stilled on the Prince’s head and Balan wiped a trail of soap off of his furrowed forehead.

Does this secret put any member of our family in peril, Giden? Tahlir pressed as Ryann and Linna appeared behind him.

You do not need to interrogate Giden. Linna firmly took Tahlir’s arm in her hand. Come, leave him for now. As the secret that Ninlow once kept resolved itself, this one will too.

"Do you know?" Giden looked at Linna in growing horror.

The secret that I refer to is the one that I confronted Ninlow about at the ball, Linna evaded wisely. His love for Ryann placed us all in jeopardy yet now they are wed and there is nothing more to be said about this matter. You are entitled to your secrets, Giden, as long as they do not endanger you or anyone else.

Salisa? Giden whispered as the drape fell closed. In the main chamber they could hear Ryann’s teasing voice speaking to her husband. Am I endangering anyone?

I don’t know. Salisa frowned worriedly and went back to washing Balan’s hair then pulled away and guided the silky brown hair beneath the slight current. Maybe you should think about asking someone smarter than me.

Giden’s eyes darted to Balan and then back to Salisa questioningly. The small maiden nodded her curly head and Giden grimaced at the expected answer.

Help me to sit down, please, Giden said a moment later and walked to the edge of the lower pool. Salisa, Giden whispered as quietly as he could as Balan lowered him to the warm stone floor before returning to sit in front of Salisa, I can’t say the words. Will you tell him very quietly so that no one else will hear and then we can speak without everyone else knowing what we’re talking about?

How much should I tell him? Salisa whispered loudly and Giden snorted on an anxious laugh.

I-I don’t know. Tell him everything, I suppose.

All right, Salisa said fearlessly and pressed herself against Balan’s wings. Her small hand turned his chin toward her so that her mouth was close to his ear. "Giden said that you told him to imagine himself with someone else to see if he could make love and he did yet nothing happened until he imagined Tahlir! Salisa then lifted her head and looked at the other Satran Fae. Did you hear me? Was I quiet enough?"

You told him everything so quickly? Giden gapped at Salisa in shock.

I think so. Salisa tilted her head thoughtfully against Balan’s head, unaware that the Feenin Fae had gone still in disbelief. Aye, I think that I told him everything that you told me. Salisa then smiled brilliantly and squealed in happiness, the volume of the high-pitched sound causing Balan to jerk away and shattering the hold that the revelation had had on him. Isn’t it wonderful?

I still don’t understand how this can make you so happy. Giden frowned at the small maiden and tried not to squirm beneath Balan’s intent stare.

You said that it was ‘terrible’ yet you’re wrong, Salisa argued and picked up the soap to wash Balan’s back and wings. There’s nothing terrible about it. Is there, Balan?

You wished to know if this could possibly endanger any of us, Balan said slowly to the other male. I am afraid that I cannot answer that until I have more information which I will not ask for here.

Tell him that it’s not terrible, Salisa ordered giddily.

I do not think, at least outwardly, that it is terrible.

Balan! Salisa scolded and pulled on the Prince’s earlobe. That’s not what I told you to say.

I am not going to lie to Giden simply to please you, little one. Balan grinned as deep relief began to fill his heart. Finish your chore and then we will take Giden away from Tahlir’s listening ears—

I have a right to know what Giden thinks is so terrible, Tahlir retorted from the other side of the curtain. He is my responsibility as well as my friend.

This is not a secret that you will be told of right now, Balan called back with a lighthearted laugh.

This is why both Lady Gylea and I told Giden to speak to you. Salisa lifted Balan’s right prominent wing to wash between the two joints of the right lower and upper Feenin wings. Sometimes, Balan, the Goddesses and other Faer do know what’s best for you.

"Which is why you always do what you are told," Balan teased with a grin for the amused Giden.

I said ‘sometimes.’ Salisa giggled and wrapped her arms around Balan from behind, the soapy cloth trailing bubbles down his sculpted chest. Salisa’s lips then smacked loudly against the wet neck. I love you, honey, and I love you too, Giden.

You are very odd, Sister, Giden said with a snicker and carefully pushed himself upright, yet I find that I love you as well.

Balan is nearly done washing, Salisa said lightly. He’ll join you in a few minutes and then you two can talk.

You are going to come too, aren’t you? Giden asked as Tahlir pushed aside the drape to allow him back into the main chamber.

I don’t know how much help I can be. Salisa began to wash Balan’s chest vigorously. I can’t even seduce a Fae that I’ve already made love with.

Salisa! Ninlow scolded loudly from the other chamber while the mouths of all three males closest to the maiden fell open in shock.

Linna began to snigger and Ryann laughed lightly at the reactions of all four males. Salisa began to grin then to giggle then began to laugh enthusiastically before Balan grabbed her shoulders and dunked her head beneath the water. When she came up sputtering and coughing a moment later the cavern was filled with the combined laughter of all nine Faer; including Aelikka who giggled now simply because those that she loved were overcome themselves.

Chapter 3

We have a little more than an hour before the sun rises, Balan said softly to the two Satran Faer on either side of him. Be careful, please, Salisa.

I can’t see as well as you can, Salisa replied with a pout and regained her feet with Balan’s help. Ask Giden your questions then so that you can tell us if his secret is endangering any of us.

I would know how distressed Giden is by this discovery. Balan watched Giden on his other side out of the corner of his eye. Giden? Do you dwell on this much of the time?

Aye, he does, Salisa answered definitively. He’s so distracted sometimes that I have to wave my hand in front of his face to get his attention.

That is not what I had hoped to hear. Balan exhaled loudly. Linna confronted Ninlow in the ballroom for the same reason. Ninlow was often distracted during training by his love for Ryann—

I didn’t say that I loved him, Giden interrupted shakily. I don’t even know why I—

Don’t be silly, Salisa interjected. Of course you love him, Giden. We all love him.

May I ask you a very delicate question, Giden? Balan whispered kindly. Have you tried to respond to the image of a male other than him? Giden nodded jerkily and turned his head away. Balan tightened his hold on the malformed Fae’s waist to prevent an accident. I take it from your reaction that you did not respond?

Giden inhaled loudly then blew out his breath in a rush yet whatever he had meant to say remained locked in this throat.

I see, Balan whispered and lifted Giden over a deep hole before the Satran male’s prosthetic could fall into it. Giden, I hate to cause you further distress yet I must agree with Salisa. The simple fact that your body only responds to him clearly indicates that you have exceptionally strong feelings for him.

I feared so, Giden rasped and looked up at the taller male. Is there anything that I can do to stop it?

Why would you want to do that? Salisa looked around Balan to the black-haired Fae. Giden, you’re in love! That’s not a bad thing, brother-mine. It’s a good thing! It’s what every Fae wants. I’ve told you before that he doesn’t see you as less than whole so don’t worry about that.

It is truth that he does not see you as ‘less than whole,’ Balan began with a slight frown, yet it is also truth that he was hurt in hearing of your past in a way that the rest of us were not. He believes, given your history, that you are frightened of him based on his own preference in lovers.

That’s silly. Salisa giggled quietly. Giden isn’t afraid of him.

A relationship between you two will not come easily, Balan warned the silent Giden kindly as both males ignored the maiden, yet if it is something that you wish for, I will aid you in any way that I can.

We don’t even know if he would—, Giden burst out then bit his lip to halt the anguished thought.

Giden, you must be patient, Balan said and stopped walking then released Salisa to turn to face Giden. His fears are not unfounded and you must be prepared to battle against them. I cannot say whether or not his love for you is the same as yours for him, yet you have already established a strong bond between you. We will nurture it and perhaps in time it will become the love that you both deserve to have.

Balan? Salisa hissed and grabbed onto the Prince’s upper arm with both hands. I hear something.

It is merely Tahlir attempting to overhear our conversation. Balan lifted his head to the sky and shook his head in reproach. You should be ashamed, Brother.

I cannot help it, Tahlir said and landed quickly beside them, his brow furrowed with guilty anxiety. The knowledge that Giden is suffering in some way and that I was not asked to aid him is a pain that I cannot ignore.

Oh, Tahlir. Salisa released Balan and jumped into Tahlir’s arms. It’s not as bad as you think it is. I said something foolish that merely drove Giden to try to answer my question. Can I tell him, Giden, to ease his heart a little?

Salisa—

Trust in her, Giden. Balan placed his hand on Giden’s strong right shoulder.

All right, Giden replied on a gasp and Balan moved closer in comfort.

I asked Giden if he wanted a lover, Salisa stated then immediately found herself landing on her backside on the hard ground. Ouch!

How could you? Tahlir hissed irately. How could you say something so heartless and cruel?

It wasn’t ‘cruel’! Salisa protested from the ground and then Balan was there and lifting her to her feet. Giden is just as much an adult male as you or Balan or Ninlow! There’s no reason that he should have to spend the rest of his life alone simply because some brute kept him for his own use. It wasn’t his fault and if I can make love to Balan just days after I was almost used then Giden can do so decades later.

Giden was not ‘almost’ used, Tahlir growled, nearly trembling with his rage yet that did not stop Salisa from moving closer to their incensed leader. "You have no right to compare what happened to him to what almost happened to you."

He wants a lover, Tahlir. Salisa stood nearly toe to toe with Tahlir and returned his glare with one of her own. Balan stood protectively to the side while also keeping his hand on the horrified Giden’s arm. Did you hear me? HE WANTS A LOVER!

I believe, Salisa, Balan whispered, that you have said enough. Do not let your emotions drive you to say something that you will regret, little one.

Aye, he does. Salisa ignored Balan and gloated into Tahlir’s astonished face. Giden wants a lover and he is slowly beginning to realize that he is not broken or less than whole and it would help a great deal if you stopped treating him as if what happened to him was the worst thing to ever happen.

"That is the worst thing that can happen to a Fae," Tahlir breathed, his silver eyes locked on Salisa’s green-gold gaze.

Nay, it is not, Salisa argued and jumped back into Tahlir’s arms. The Atilles male caught her and held her tightly. The worst thing that can happen to a Fae is having one’s friends turn away from them believing that.

I am afraid, Tahlir whispered into Salisa’s hair yet his eyes found and held Giden’s pale blue gaze. I am afraid that when he looks at me he sees the fiend that he called ‘Master’ before he called me so. I am afraid that he will see that beast when I touch him in ways that are not intended as healing or support.

You used to touch him, Salisa reminded the distraught Fae. You used to touch his hair fondly or pat his back and he misses that, I think.

I do, Giden whispered bravely. I miss the friendship that we had. I like Salisa and Linna and I like spending time with them yet I miss you. I’m sorry that I ever told you—

Nay, Giden, Tahlir whispered and set Salisa gently on her feet. Do not be sorry for it was not your fault that I was so pained by your revelations. Can you forgive me?

Of course I can. Giden smiled shakily. You are my savior.

Balan stepped away from Giden’s side as Tahlir carefully moved closer and took the malformed Fae into his arms, cautiously avoiding the twisted arm. Salisa smiled widely and moved closer to Balan, wrapping her arms around his waist as she watched Tahlir gently cup the smaller male’s head in his hand. Balan’s arms encircled her shoulders and the Prince silently held Salisa with a soft smile on his face.

The four Faer returned to the cavern a short time later and Giden set out his bedroll beside Tahlir’s at the healer’s urging. Salisa wiggled back into Balan’s body and wished all of her companions a peaceful rest even while her eyes never left Giden’s form a short distance away. Eventually the smallest maiden could no longer keep her eyes open and she drifted off to sleep secure in Balan’s arms.

Chapter 4

The group of Faer had woken a few hours before dusk and once again prepared to leave the sanctuary that they had found so far to the north. Salisa had taken charge of her companions and this time had made certain that her friends, her family, were in the right positions.

Ninlow held Ryann’s hand with the gifted babe again strapped to her adoptive mother’s chest. Giden walked at Tahlir’s side in the lead while Balan and Shanlin walked in the rear, pushing the handcart and leading the goat. Linna and Salisa walked behind their leader and Giden as they had before yet today Linna’s left hand held Salisa’s right and she did not release the younger maiden until they had reached the end of the treacherous ground surrounding Culist Marsh.

I expect us to enter the protection of Plasin Forest before the sun rises, Tahlir said quietly as the sun cast its golden glow across the vast prairie just before it disappeared below the horizon. Be silent and alert, my family, and do not resist asking for aid when it is needed. The last was directed at Shanlin with a raised brow. Shanlin and Balan will alert us if there is need to hide.

Can we walk wherever we want to now? Salisa grinned widely and bounced on her toes.

That would be best. However, Salisa?

Aye?

Do not stray far from the others and cease picking up rocks.

Tahlir’s orders were met with quiet laughter and the Atilles male was smiling as he turned and began to lead them forward once more. Salisa dropped back to walk with Ninlow as Linna took charge of Giden’s welfare. The small maiden clasped Ninlow’s hand in her own and swung their arms lightly as she hummed beneath her breath and skipped through the tall grasses.

Salisa. Linna looked over her shoulder and frowned in warning.

I’m sorry. Salisa stopped humming.

She wasn’t being loud, Giden said quietly to his companion.

There is nothing out here to prevent her voice from traveling a great distance, Linna explained kindly to the malformed Fae. In the forest the trees and brush will mute and redirect the noise yet there is no such protection out here.

They walked in silence for a short time before Salisa’s humming could again be heard. Linna frowned in silent warning over her shoulder again and the younger maiden again quieted herself. Yet only a few minutes later Salisa was again absently humming beneath her breath.

You obviously cannot remain quiet, Balan said with a grin and came alongside the foursome. Ninlow, would you replace me here for a short time? Salisa has not yet had her flight today.

I’ll be quiet, I promise! Salisa gasped in continuing fear of flying and clung tightly to Ninlow’s hand with both of hers. Ninlow merely shook her off and took over pushing the cart while Balan stepped close to the small maiden. "Balan, honey, please don’t make me fly with you. I’m afraid."

In the months that we have known one another have you ever come to harm in my arms? Balan whispered and lifted the trembling Salisa against his chest.

Oh, that’s not fair. Salisa shut her eyes tightly as Balan launched them into the sky while their companions below began to walk once again.

Salisa, if Linna can learn to utilize her left arm as well as her right to use her father’s short swords proficiently, then you can learn to fly without fear, Balan whispered as they began to circle their companions far below.

Why can’t I use Giden’s harness? Salisa whimpered and pressed her nose harder against Balan’s neck. I might not be so afraid if I was attached to you in some way.

We have already discussed this, little one, Balan said and squeezed Salisa’s slender body a bit more tightly. You will not fit into my clothes, I will not fit into yours, and Giden’s harness is for his use and will not fit you properly. Why must you persist in bringing this argument to nearly every flight?

I’m afraid to—

Salisa, be quiet for a moment, please.

Salisa immediately halted her voice and strained her ears to hear whatever it was that the Prince had. Balan heard the rhythmic sound easily now that the Satran maiden had ceased speaking and he stiffened alertly before adjusting his body to race toward the ground and their companions. Salisa remained quiet yet her hold on the Prince was nearly painful as her nails again sank into his shoulders. Moments later the Prince and Salisa landed to find their companions had halted and were already preparing themselves to meet the incoming threat.

They are Flying Goblins, Balan answered Tahlir’s question to Shanlin as his feet touched down. Nearly a dozen of them come from the north.

Ryann, give Aelikka to Salisa, their leader instructed softly. You will join us above. Ninlow, Linna, you will keep Salisa and Giden between you two. We cannot engage them all at once therefore you must prepare yourselves to encounter those that will come at you.

Aye, Sir. Ninlow pressed Giden against the side of the cart while Salisa walked over to join the malformed Fae as she tightened the straps of Aelikka’s harness around her slender body.

Ryann, do not forget to protect your wings, Tahlir reminded softly as the Atilles maiden stepped close to Ninlow for a tender embrace. Do you all remember what I told you of the Goblins’ weaknesses?

We remember, Giden answered for them all and drew one of his daggers as he stood beside Salisa.

Tahlir led Balan, Shanlin, and Ryann to hover thirty feet above their Satran companions and drew his sword and a dagger. Below the winged Faer Giden and Linna also weighed their daggers in their right hands in preparation of throwing them before they were forced to engage the Goblins with their swords. Ninlow held his staff in his hands and warmed up his muscles as they waited, spinning the staff in his hands and practicing the motions that the winged warriors had taught him.

Giden?