While GreenStone had its winter festival.The other kingdoms and thsoe members of that massive and ever growing falimy had to make other plans.

Duchan and Mai would hold their first dinner with Nenime,Cerime,Dagor ,Elenya and a few others.

In Amethsyt rose Dristan D'Kerose and Hope were expecting their son Drake to be bron any day now. There was a small get together of friends and fmailt within the castle.

In Ruby Rain with Alex Luna Dead Roxanne Luna would be made queen this winter and rise to hopeflly bring Ruby Rain out of the shadows that had long since cast upon them.

And in Golden Vine Isaac GoldenVine held a feast with hsi family in attenance.

All over Edhel Ndor the smell of fresh;y baked bread and cookies wafted through windows.Children of all types played in the streets newly coated with snow. The men that had foughht in the battles nd wars were wamrly greated by wives and lovers.

The wind howled at her bback as she stood on the tallest peek of the GreenStone mountains now covered with snow. Some where below the people in the castle slept and some where Dae slept in his cave. The wind howled wishing to wisk her off to where ever the mage dared to go,she could go any where,the wind whsipered her name from Rhydin and it whispered her name from Crendia. The cold did not bother the mage bundled with in that thicker white cloak.

She had vowed to stay away from Rhydin, it was too hard being torn in two.Worse now than ever before, and she would not say goodbye,for none would surely note that she would never be back. A whisper here and a mention there, but those who knew her knew the winds would carry any message to her hands,no matter what. Shea stood there for a long silent moment looking off to the south. Rhydin would go on with out her, she had a daughter to rasie. "Let me rest,let me be.Let me surrender for once."

The wind then silenced them sleves. " Naa tayna mani lle merna?" The voice was alll to familar to her ears. "To be left alone here for all time forgotten by Rhydin and all who knew you,or just to vanish my love?"

Shea smirked " Adaron," with a breath she turned to face him with tears flowing down her cheeks," my daughter is born, and our son is well and yet I am not at ease. Duty bound all my life to these lands and now these lands have a peace I could only have wished for.But Rhydin,I fear will never have such peace,it will go up in flames before it has peace."

"Thats not the problem love, you don?t have peace. Honor bound knight,who only ever gave in when it came to those she truly wished to give in to,myself and Victor. You feel bound to the mortal,but you know that you can not watch over him forever.Let it go. You made hima promise,but he no longer wishes you to keep it.Shea, for your sake for Adamina for Victors sake let it go. You were torn in two when you fell for Blahl not sure if you could love him or Connar more than when both turned out more false Victor was there, and will always be here. Its time now for once that you surrendered.?

?You sound like him.?

Adarons brows rose, ?I only sound like myself but my words remind you of something someone said,yes.Well by now you should be used tot he fact that I know everything that goes on in your life.I am dead what better use of my time do I have??

Shea shook her head, ? The Count said something like that to me, that instead of saying I do not surrender unless I have no other choice I must learn to say I choose to surrender.And when that day came that my most secret dreams would come true and I would know true power. But what more power can a wind mage have than I have Sul Val?istar. Surrived from fire s of hell and fury.Untamed and unbound. ?

?Perhaps its not the kind of power you use with magic but a power over what choices you make, your a knight Shea,a warrior who hardly ever goes without a weapon, even if it is not one of iron,steel or mithral your bound to wind and such as so you are powerful, but even the wisest of men who led others in to war knows that sometimes it is wiser to rise the white flag than risk tens of thousands of lives,surrender is not always a bad thing my love.As you recall surrendering to your heart and whims brought our son, and your daughter as well. You may never lay down your sword Shea but that does not mean you can not choose to surrender. If you decied to leave Rhydin for good,it will be on your terms, no one elses. But be not torn in two any longer, life even immortal life is far too short for that.?

The wind blew again warm then cold again and Adaron was gone in it. Shea closed her eyes and lifted her hands in to the air. ?I choose to surrender.?

::Shea walked in to the room and saw him standing there his eyes keenly set upon their daughter as she slept.:: we've missed you, though I think I noticed more than Adamina did. :: dressed to kill, no longer wide as she was tall. Cough it up to elven magics or what ever you like. It was clear the mage had been back in to Rhydin at leasta few times since he'd been gone.:: welcome back my dear :;in shea crossed to embrace him.::

::shea smiled as she gazed back in to his eyes and watched as Adamina was placed back in her crib. She embraced him tightly and took him in as she had missed him so much. ;; and I love ye :: she stood on her tip toes and kissed the side of his neck.:: its been lonely here with out ye. ::she wrapped her arms over his shoulders then.::

::she cuddled with him int hat chair and smiled.:: I am always careful. :: now that he was back Shea would stay at home with him until after the year was over, it was time for family matters,Rhydin could fade away for a while.::

::shea would hit him softly.:: Victor. :: she gave him a look.But she wasnt too mad he'd been away and all shea wanted to do was sit there in his lap with her eyes closed and hear his voice.:: Now that your back,I'll be here with you. Rhydin can burn if it wants ::Shea was all to serious about that.::

While Shea and Victor were upstairs. Darkmere and Jade would appear in the lounge of Greenstone Castle. Dark figured this would be one of the best places to go, for the two to unwind..as well as spend their honeymoon.





" Now..let's relax and spend our honeymoon together. "


She smiled to him and nuzzled her head to his chest as he carried her. The fire light drew her attention. "I like this idea."





Victor chuckled softly to the hit from Shea. " Meow. " Then grinned innocently to that look he got. He nodded softly to her words, as he closed his eyes as he was back home with his wife and child. He couldn't ask for anything more important than that at the moment.



Shea smirked and nuzzled against him. "Meow to you ." Then her brows perked,elven ears picked up the sound of two voices she knew very well. "honeymooners"

::Shea smirked to that and nuzzled her head in closer to that spot she so favored.:: Mmm well she must have dosed him with something, I didnt think the Dark One could realx. :: her brows rose at that mention that they never really went on their honeymoon.:: Mmm what do you call all that time in Nosgoth?

Meanwhile

::Jade smirked back to his full fanged smirk and she flashed ehr sharp teeth at him. And then purred to his hand upon her stomach, and her ears perked to his humming .The lupine was sure they wouldnt mind them being here, there were 100's of rooms and at the moment there was no fest going on so the family was spread through the lands when not here.:: You know me so well.. :: she inched in closer and lay her head against his arm.::

::Shea just grinned, and giggled to those tickles along her sides::oh you know what I am talking about . ::her fingers ran up and down his chest slowly.:: Don't act all coy with me. You know very well what I am talking about. But if you really have forgotten maybe I'll remind you. :: a wild wind mage smirk at that.::

::Shea smirked:: thats right you'd better remember. ::she pokes him at the comment that she was not wild any more.:: I am so wild. ::another soft poke then and a smirk:: You dont seem to mind me being a naughty little elf. :: said before he kisssed her, Shea savored in the kiss and softly pulled away and gave hima long look with her jade hues flashing to silver for a moment. Before she easily pulled away and slid off his lap.:: I am only tame for you love.. ::a slow wink:; but if you like I could not be

::shea smiled softly as his arms slipped back around her.:: Lovely as ever am I? :: she starred up in to his eyes.:: Mmm she has your eyes you know, and she will be as wild as I am. :: she leaned in to his arms and closed her eyes.:: Victor. :: she nuzzled her head against his chest.:: ye know I love thee ..right? :: she couldnt help but smile just a bit.As she let her self rise to her toes to look at him with thsoe bright jade hues.:: my evening star. My sweet dark love.

::Shea just smirked looking up to him as she rose to her toes again.Then she ran her finger tips through his hair. As she heard his sigh.:: Everything alright love? ::she twirrled a piece of his hair around her finger.:: Your not worried about anything are ye? ::going from playful to concerned.::

::She liked being lifted up, and he could do it with so much ease.She was not heavy not now at the very least.She wiggled her feet around a bit as they dangled.:: Mmm good. ::she placed a soft kiss upon his cheek then another to his neck,dangling with ease as he held her up.::

Salice sat down looking tot hat cup of cold tea.She couldnt pace she couldnt think. The whole thing was simply well it was more than she wished to handle and she couldnt talk about it to anyone, well save for Willow and Adaron who only showed once ina blue moon.

Salice knew one thing,Etten would get uit out of ehr .Salice also knew Willow would tell someone at some point, and that someone wa slikely not to be Ghallon. That someone was likely to be Magus.

Secrets liked to come out. A soft kick made her stand and rub her belly once. Her son was a kicker . This was all to much, she had enough to deal with, new rangers, the duites of a queen, being in love with a man she was sure didnt love her back. Fearing the man that was the father to her children at every waking moment.

Another kick rocked her form. Salice looked to the dusty over grown cottage. How long would this secret hold out ?and what would finally happen when it broke free?

Just when the three thought it couldn't get any worse. It did. No it wasn't Victor walking into the room, where the three were talking to the other. But it was just as worse as that happening. Etten and Magus, happened to walk in right towards the tale in of the conversation. The pair glanced to the other for a moment, then back to the remainning ladies.

"Secrets. I do love secrets." Murmured to Etten, who just shook his head slightly. Upon catching the few key words. Etten had a feeling what was going on.

"I do believe one of the other sisters gave in. I'm betting it was Shea.. Seeing how you are still standing here." Magus smirked to that, before looking around a moment. He senced Victor and Jade upstairs, as did Etten.

Neither seen Ghallon or Kahn, before they looked to the other. That left one person. "Seems she gave into the dark brooding one. I must say..I'm kinda of impressed she did." At the moment..They forgot, or atleast Magus forgot Willow and Salice were still there.

Etten just shook his head slightly, before moving over towards the pair. Leaving Magus to grin to himself. Oh boy. Just when Willow had to open her mouth about someone saying something. That someone happened to walk in.

Etten chuckled at the two, as he wasn't going to say a word. Salice knew that about him. Seeing how he rarely helped her out with the kingdom, unless she asked him for it. Once Salice moved up to him. He swept the queen off her feet.

"Have fun you two." A smirk to Willow and Magus, as he carried Salice off. Magus looked over to Willow at the glare. With him flashing her a sweet innocent look.

"Like I would say anything. I'm not that mean." Now turnning to head off. To try and keep from getting caught by the goddess.

Well that's because Victor had Adamina in his arms, cooing down at her. With her tugging lightly on that single lock of grey hair. " You are going to be quite the catch for whom ever manages to win you over. " Mused quietly to his daughter.

He then spotted Jade, Vanya and Audrey. A sheepish grin to the group, as they probably spotted him being the dolting father. Not that he was ashamed by it.

" Hello. " Now moving over to join the three ladies, then looked between them at what was said. " Kahn's went to see Ghallon this morning." This to Audrey.

He then looked to Jade, with a smile. " As for your dark broodign king." Smirking to that. " He's probably off tormenting someone." Which was probably the truth.

The dark brooding one would slip into the castle, just catching the voices coming from the lounge, Then slowly headed that way. Oh he knew he'd probably get an ear full to being gone so much as of late. Soi he'd get this over with first as he sliped into the lounge.

"You? I have a feeling who ever falls for you. Will have to keep up with you." Victor grinned down to Vanya as he reached down to ruffle her hair. Then laughed softly to hearing Audrey, before looking towards the door.

"Not as of late, but knowing her. She's off in Rhy'Din." Now looking to Jade with a faint smile. Easy to see he didn't like Shea running of to that place.

"I do hope you aren't talking about me." Dark frowned a touch, as he looked around at the small group. Victor looked back to him, then offered a slight nod of his head towards Jade, before going back to cooing at Adamina, while rocking her a bit in his arms.

Dark looked over to Jade, before moving in her direction. Now removing his cloak, and tossed it over the back of a chair. "Not going to rip me apart for being gone so much are you?" A playfull tone to his voice.

" Where is your mother?" This from Victor as he spoke in a murmured tone to Adamina. This got a side glance from Darkmere, as he moved to sit with Jade. About that time, Kahn walked in and right over to Vanya.

"Been a good girl?" Grinning as he picked her up, and moved to join Audrey, kissing her cheek a moment. Before kissing her on the lips.

(taken from The Wolves Den-to catch this forum up ^.^)

-he nodded- I am sorry I have not been about as of late.

I understand ye have duties,to Nosgoth.Ye are king.


And he slipped an arm around her shoulder. - True..but I have duties to you as well..

::she smiled and nuzzled his shoulder.::Aye I know, but ye are a king, ye ahve a whole realm to tend to. I understand,besides. I am alright.Victor has kept me company

- He nodded lightly to that - Been whinning to him about me not being around? - Shifting to better hold her, and to run a few fingers through her hair -

::she snickered to that:: Nae, I do not whine.I just miss ye. I have been helping with all the wee ones.

- He nodded lightly to that - Getting some pratice in I see..

::she nodded:: aye, but I hope ye still plan to go with me t see Radella, its in two days. ::she nuzzled his arm:: less ye have plans of corse

- He nodded softly - I haven't forgotten that.. I'll be here to go with ye..

::she smiled to that.::Good. ::she lay her head against his arm.::

True..- Smirking now. - I could tie you down

::she smirked to that::I can break free too,remember. But I wounldnt mind, if it would keep ye close for a few hours

True.. - He looked down at her. -

::she smirked and looked up at him.:: They all have started quaking at me already, I dont even have that much of a baby bump yet

- He smirked - Quack quack.

::she sneered up at him:: hey ::she poutd and ran her fingers over her little baby bump.::

- And he followed suit - What? - He chuckled softly - Did you expect me not to do that?

::she nodded softly:; ye quack at me, ye will think im fat in a months time.. ::she pouted:: ye are worse than Victor

And he kissed her pouting lips - Oh hush..

: ::she smirked to the kiss and nuzzled in closer.:: So, how are your sons? ::Jade wondered with all his time away if he had been in Nosgoth.::


They are doing well.. - Still caressing her hair. For the most part he had been in Nosgoth..-

::she purred to the caressing::Is Raz still doing time with the GreenStone archers? ::Jade smirked::Aldaya speaks very highly of him..

That he is.. - A nod to that, then chuckled to that - Knowing Raz.. He's been giving her a personal workout..

: ::she smirked to that:: I am sure Lady Aldaya does not mind. :: she grinned up at him:: And how is Gabe ,Anala and Warner ::she smirked:; grandpa

- He smirked to that - They are doing well..granny.. - A poke to her stomach -

:she snickerd to that:: But im a hot granny :: she purred up at him::

- He smirked to that - That so?

::she nodded;; aye, don't ye think so? ::she lay acros shis lap then.:: Or do ye find someone hotter? ::she smirked that full lupine smirk.::

- He smirked down to that, as he trailed a finger along her neck, then down her chest -

::she smirked and purred.:: Not many grannys are as fit as I am... ::she smirked::

True.. - Glad she didn't note that he had no comment to her previous question. -

::she purred up to him and closed her eyes.:: Oh did Shea tell you what she thinks, shes thinkin im with twins ::she smirked:: but sheas been off her game as of late

Twins... - He blinked to that..- - Then coughed to the comment about Shea being off her game -

: ;;she snickered to that:: I think Shea is just fooling with me. She doesnt have the ehart to quack at me ye know.

True..- He chuckled to that -

::she smirked and sat up,sitting upon his lap.She kissed his cheek softly.:: well I dont want to get in to your 'me' time. :she started to rise.::

- And he kissed her cheek back - What? You don't like being around me now?

:;she smirked to that::nae I love being around ye, I know ye like a little alone brooding time.. ::she starred in to his eyes:: and something else is on your mind I can tell that much

- He sighed softly, and looked away..-

::she slid her hands down his cheeks:: hey ::she turned him back to look at her.:: what ever it is, we can get through it,if somethings going on,someone will help.Is it Nosgoth?Something with the boys?

He looked back to her, before looking down - How much have you heard around here? - Meanign Greenstone castle. As he was sure atleast Shea's sister knew -


About what? ::her brows quirked::

- He was thinking on how to say this. -

::she looked at him closely:: I can just tell your tense I ahve not heard anything. Though Salice, be acting odd too. I thought perhaps there was some big meeting coming about

There's that...and.. - He carefully moved from her, with his back to her now - And something else..

: ::she moved and rose as well.::something with nosgoth? the boys? :: concern in her voice:: Please tell me.. :: she inched in towards him.::

It has to deal with..Shea...and me..- A glance over his shoulder to her now -

::her brows rose to t at:; ye and shea? is shea unwell, and do ye know? or are ye unwell?

We...have been together...a few times..-

::Jade blinked at that:; together? ::Bright blue eyes focuse don him::In nosgoth, working together on something?

Aye.. - To the together and Nosgoth part. - We..slept together...- NOw waitting for her to go full feral on him -

::jade took in a deep breath at that,she blinked at him:;what? :;she wondered if he was just kidding, but she could tell he wasnt: you... ::she didnt move,didnt even flinch::

- And he turned to face her.. - I'm sorry..- Said softly, but didn't nor couldn't look at her at the moment. -

::she coudlnt breath, she shook her head, and hoped to wake from some night mare.:: You and shea... ::a tear slid down her cheek and she was on her knees::

Yet he caught her in his arms. - Jade..- Whispered softly.. - I know I can never make this up to you...but I am sorry..

::she was sobbing, then she hit him as hard as her arm would allow and pulled away from him:;I knew it.. I knew it. I just figured it was Kitty, but Shea ::she shook her head:: God... Victor is going to kill you.. If I dont kill you first

- He shook his arm out to the punch -

::she fell again to her knees and cried.Her finegrs dug in to the earth, slowly turning from hands to paws.::

And he again moved to her..- Jade.. stop...- Lifting her eyes to his, letting her see the torture that had been eatting away at him..Seems it took him a while to find the courage to tell her. -

::she looked in to his syes, her eyes glowed more feral now.:: I cant believe ye, Shea wouldnt.. and why would ye ::her eyes filled with tears:: ye love me... :: those words broke as she bit back those feral fangs.::

I do love you..and I married you..- Moving his hand up to brush the tears from her eyes. - But you know as well as anyone..What I am..

::she starred at him:: what you are, a lair a cheat! :; she pushed back from his arms:: by all rights I should tear ye apart. ::she tooka harsh breath then and closed her eyes as a rush of pain went through her.::

- Yet he held her in his arms - I am a dark brooding asshole.. - Not letting her break from him. - Remember the deal I made with you...When we first met?

:;she nodded:; aye...::breathing in deeply.::

A scene happened between me and Shea...- He looked away a moment. - I made a deal with her..Granted it was wrong..but that was part of the deal. - Meaning the sleeping together -

::she starred at him:: a deal? so now you two have :;she didnt want to say it:; does everyone else know?

Appears so.. - He looked back to her. - But..the deal has changed...She is helping me with Nosgoth..- Seeing she didn't rip him apart..most of the tension left.. She'd not..atleast in his eyes.. His..soul seemed more at ease -

::she tooka breath::helping ye? ::she was still mad,still upset but listening:: how?

She allowed me to bind her to Nosgoth.. To help me with the load I carry..

:;Jade blinked at that:: oh..::she knew the weight of nosgoth was great upon him.:: and ye didnt think to ask me? to see if your wife , wanted to bare that burden with ye? Does Victor know?

You are with child.. It would be to much for thee to bear. - Hoping she would see..That he had her and their daughter in mind - I don't think he knows yet...

jade wipped at her tears and started to calm.:: ye enjoyed it didnt ye ::she looked at him:;being with shea.

: Aye..- He nodded lightly.. - But you are my wife..- Now looking back into her eyes, before slowly kneeling in front of her..His head lowed. -

:;she looked to him, and bit her lip:: Yes... I am..:;she gazed down to her hands as they shifted back to normal.:: But put your self in my shoes if I told ye that I slept with Victor would you not be upset? I mean Shea has been like a sister to me...

I know..Jade..and I am sorry.. - Still not looking up at her - What ever your choice is..I'll honor it...

::she sniffled:: I am so mad at ye... ::she was mad at shea too:: by every right I should rip ye and shea to shreads... but I wont.. :

- He nodded softly - What do you wish of me?

::she starred at him:; do ye love me still? do ye still desire me?or.. anything that we have... or had?

- Now looking up at her - I still love you dearly Jade.. If I didn't I wouldn't have told you anything..- Now moving up to cup her cheeks. Placing a deep kiss to her lips...Pouring everything he was made of into that one kiss. -

::she felt him kiss her, and part of her didnt want to kiss him back but a deeper part did.::

- His hands then moved to her hips, then around to her back.. Before finally breaking that kiss - You are as much a part of me..As I am a part of you.. I will always desire you. love you..and want you..

::she licked at her lips and starred him hard in the eyes.She had to take him at his word.::

And he looked her right back in the eyes.. He had meant those words. -

:;she starred in to his eyes:; i do not know if i can forgive ye, nor dshea and I cant promise not to tear at the wind mage... But I know ye love me, and I know Shea loves Vcitor.. but I also know ye both.. and I know its not going to end just because I know..

He nodded softly to that - I know Jade..but I will not let anything happen again..

::she glanced to him:; ye can not promise me that...

- He sighed softly to that. with a light nod. - I know itis alot to ask..but stay with me...

::she looked in to his eyes then::I have no choice, where else would I go...?

You could of left me..- Whispered..as he moved to sit down.. Not hiding that would have destroied him -

: ::she looked to him:;I am with your child,I am bound to you, to this place to Nosgoth. I have no where to go... no family left...

- He looked to her, as he slowly held out his hand to her - You have family...

::she looked to that hand then up to him, some part of ehr still wanted to smack him but she slowly held back and gave him her hand::

- and he slowly pulled her down, before shifting his hand to her wrist - Go ahead.. - Meaning she could slap him if she wanted -

::she shook her head:: nae...::she didnt have the stenght to hit him.::

- He nodded softly and rested his brow to hers. -

: ::she rested her brow to his and sniffled softly.::

And he started to softly kiss her cheeks, slowly tracing her face. -

::she leaned in to him and closed her eyes, her hands gripped on to him, she kept waiting still to wake from some nightmare. But it wasnt going to happen.::

- And he continued to whispers "I'm sorry" to her, knowing it would take time for things to be repaired. But he didn't move from her-

: ::she sniffled against him.Wondering when Shea would own up to it, or when shea would tell Vic or if she should do it her self just to spite them both.::

Jade.. don't do it.. - He already knew what she was thinking on.. -

::she noddeD:; I wont, let shea do it herself I hope Victor is so mad at her :;she pulled back then:: I would oddly expect this of you, but not of her..

- He nodded lightly to that, before smirking a moment. - Hey now.. Shea's not as...innocent as you think..Much like you..seeing how I was able to.. Catch you..

::she took another breath, and looked at his squarely.:: I now shes not innocent... :;then it hit her:; she was covering for you.. for the both of you when she said she was in rhydin with Connar ...Ye caught me aye... I am a foolish little pet wife..

and he kissed her softly - You are not a foolish pet wife.. - Another kiss - You are a feral pet.

::she blinked at him:: perhaps what they say is right a vampire and lupine are much like a vampire and lycan, not meant to be

He tilted his head slightly - Yet here we are..


::she pulled softly from him and starred down at the ring on her finger, she balled her hand in a soft fist and closed her eyes.:: Yet here it is.. ::she glanced at him::I love ye, my dark king, but I do not trust ye...

- Slowly he looked to her. - Jade..- He started to say somethign, before looking down again..Easy to see..He was waitting for her to just get up and leave -

::she wasnt moving just looking down at the grass under her,her hands pressed to her stomach. There was a opart of her that wanted to walk away.Slowly she rose and looked at him.:: I need... I need to go.. ::she needed some time to sort through things, alone.::

He nodded softly to that - Alright..

::she looked again at him,yet though she needed to go, her heart willed her to stay.::

- And he kept his gaze on the ground in front of him. Not hard to see that thiswas affecting him more than he let on -

:;she didnt move away but towards him knealing down to him.Her hand met his cheek in a soft grace.::

- And he finally looked up at her. Sky blues looking into her eyes.. He knew he had hurt her, and grief and sorrow were in his eyes..He never intended to ever hurt her -

:;she starred in to his eyes, she knew he ha dnot emant to hurt her. But he had,more deeply than he knew.In time she might forgive him,but for now she could not. She place a slow kiss to his cheek before rising and walking away.::

- And he watched her walk away from him, and lowered his gaaze back to the ground.. -

A mere moment ater Jade left. Raziel and Gabriel would appear, both looking to their father. They had heard from Kahn what had happened, before looking to each other. There was a silence conversation going on. With it mostly being done with body language. Dark looked up to sencing the two, and moved to stand up.

Once he did, the boys walked over to him, with Gabe looking off to the side. "We heard what happened, and we came here to talk to you about it." The slightly older son of his, spoke first.

Raz would cross his arms. "Really father.. Must you continue to be..an idiot?" Normally they would be more polite..But this matter was affecting more than just the two.

Dark started to say something, only for Gabe and Raz to slug him at the same time. Knocking him flat on his back, with him looking up at his sons..Wide eyed as he never expected that.

"Shut up. Nothing you can say will change things. You screwed up big time. We finally have someone that we truelly concider to be our mother." Gabe hissed down at their father, before looking to Raz..Whom picked up where Gabe left.

"You are lucky no one here has beaten you to within an inch of your life. I respect both of you..but this is something that will be felt for a while. You better not ever do anything like this again.." That said, the twin brothers moved off. Not bothering to help their father up.

He just laid there for a moment, before pushing to his feet. With a helping hand coming from none other than.....Victor. Once their eyes meet, Victor dropped him to his back again, further busting Dark's lip. The cold look from the large man said more than words could.


Without a word, Victor turned to find Shea. How did Victor find out? He happened to over hear, some of the maids of the castle talking about it. The actions and words from Dark's sons..Confirmed it. Now he went to confront Shea.

Once Dark picked himself off the ground for a second time. He touch the blood coming from his busted lip, before watching Victor head off. He knew both his sons, and Victor had held back. Lowering his gaze again, before moving into the castle. Going over what had happened in the last few minutes, as he moved into the lounge. He then sat down in front of the fireplace, and just stared into the hearth.

Meanwhile, Victor scanned the area for a moment. Reachng out with his mind, before locating Shea. He just stared in that direction for a moment, before disappearing. A moment later he appeared about four feet in front of her, arms crossed over his chest.

Time just seemed to stand still for him, as part of him wanted to comfort her..While the other wanted to turn and walk away, leaving her there. A slow deep breath was taken, before letting it slowly be exhaled. It was after this..That he finally spoke.

" I know what happened, and frankly..I should just leave and take Adamina with me. " A pause there..to let those words sink in a moment, as he looked away. Once he was sure to have her full attention, he looked back to her. As what he was about to say, in his mind.. Shea would have to follow.

" From now on. You have only two vows. The first to our daughter.. The second..is to me. You are to stay at the castle from now on. No more runnign off to Rhy'Din, or any other place. Untill you prove that Jade and me can trust you, and can forgive you. " Once again pausing to let the words sink in, before he moved to her, kneeling down in front of her.

" Do I make myself clear?" Now lifting her gaze to his, finally looking her in the eyes. As he brushed a few fingers over those cuts made by Jade. They healed over, yet left the marks behind.." Once you prove that I can turst you again..I'll remove those marks." Now waitting for her to speak her mind on this.


Meanwhile elsewhere

Gabe was taking care of Adamina for Victor, as Raz went out to find Jade. It was a rare thing for the brothers to team up against their father, but both had accepted Jade as their mother. And were siding with her on this. Raz hoped he could find her, before she got hurt more or worse..Left.

After a few long moments of silence, Victor looked over his shoulder to Aiden. He had felt the youth there, but had been focused on Shea that he hadn't noticed it till now. One look was all it took to read the youth, before looking back down to Shea. Finally, after what seemed like a lifetime of silence. He slowly uncrossed his arms, before holding out a hand to her.

" I will hold you to your words. If this happens again..I will leave, and I will take our daughter with me. " He could of just walked away from her just then, leaving her there alone. But this was going to take an effort from both of them. To repair the damage that had been done.

He had been understanding till this point. That her vows to other people made her who she was. This time, Victor had demanded that Shea stay home. The cost would be to great for her not to. Seems Victor could be just as dark minded as his friends.

Victor looked to Aiden as he spoke up finally, with a light nod to the youth. A silent Go ahead gesture. When Shea took his hand, he slowly helped her to her feet, then looked back to Aiden. Waitting for the youth to have his say, even though he already had a feeling what was about to be said.

He could of told Aiden not to say anything, but felt it would be best to let him have his say on the matter. Yet he remained by Shea's side, as he crossed his arms. It would take time for the two to regain what had been lost.

Victor remained silent, before looking to Aiden a moment. The youth had caught him off guard with what he just said. He was just about to say something, when Aiden walked off, before looking to Shea. He knew that got her attention as well, and waited till their son left.

"Let's go home." Said as he reached up to touch those marks, healing them fully now. Feeling that she had enough on her plate. It was time to repair what had ben lost.

:shea had gone inside,still wishing he had left those marks she passed throught he lounge and went upstairs. Not a word or glance was given to anyone she might have passed along the way. ::

- Yet he already knew she was beating herself over what happened enough, without needing those scars to remind her. He would follow her up to their bedroom, before moving over to Adamina's crib. -
::Shea looked down to her sleeping daughter,and sighed lightly. Darng not to look at Victor at the moment, when she looked at Adamina she saw him any how, adaminas darkly tone hair and her dark eyes when she was awake. Shea didnt know where to begin,or how to fix this mistake.::

- And he finally looked to her a moment, as he placed a hand to her shoulder . -

::she looked up from the sleeping adamina to his hand on her shoulder. But she still would not look him in the eyes.::

- And he looked back to their daughter. -

::Adamina was sound alseep,sleeping like the little angel she was.She at last looked up at Victor. She didnt know what to say,or how to act.::

- And he looked down at her, right in the eyes.-

::she stood there still as a stone starring up at him,her eyes conveied what she could not, those dimly toned jade eyes. They were not brillant as they normally would be,for she knew the pain she had caused. She then looked away slowly,kissed her finger tips and pressed them to Adaminas cheek before leaving the crib side.::

- Yet he caught her by the shoulder, when she tried to leave -

::she turned and stopped when he caught her by the shoulder. Her eyes starred down at the floor at his shoes at the tiles upon the floor.::

- He then moved his hand to her chin, then slowly lifted her eyes to look into his -

::she shifted her head up feeling his fingers along her chin, her gaze then lifted to his.::

- Slowly his hand moved to cup her cheek. - I know you are suffering.

::she nodded simply:; I deserve to be... ::she felt his hand son her cheeks and looked up in to his eyes.:: After.... I deserve to be barred and chained... and kept... in some dungon...

Yet..all I ask is you stay here with me from now on..- Still looking her in the eyes, before leaning down to kiss her cheek. -

::she felt that kiss on her cheek and nodded,she had agreed to stay,she was not going off any where any time soon,or in the near future.::

- He then moved from her, and towards the door. Letting her spend time with their daughter..-

::she looked at him and smiled softly. Then she walked back towards the crib, and stood there looking down at Adamina. Once Victor had left the room she lifted the sleeping adamina from the crib, and sat down in the rocking chair.::

- But he stopped just outside the door, to look back in on them. A smile crossed his lips, before slipping on downstairs -

::she sat there rocking with her.She closed her eyes and leta few tears slid down her cheeks. She knew some how some way she had to make it up to Jade, had to make things right.::

::down stairs in the lounge three sat, salice,Willow and Shay talking in hushed voices about a meeting of some sort. :: I will be there ::Salice offered at last.:: Shay and Aiden will have to come with me, as Shea will not be leaving this castle any time soon ::Willow nodded:: Alright.. I'll pass this news on..

Victor came to a stop to hearing the voices, before stepping into the lounge. Arms crossed over his chest -

::Salice and Willow looked up to Victor. Shavyn then did so as well.:; I rthink I'll go see how Kulbin is doing with Kaleigh.. let me know when you wish to go seler ::she looked to salice once more before slipping out.::

Yet his arm shot out..Blocking the door way. Uh oh. - How long did you three know?

I just found out ::Shay looked to him, honestly,she had not known.::

Let her pass Victor::Salice rose:: Shavyn did not know, Only I and Willow knew... before hand

::Willow stood as well, she knew this had been coming.Salice had known too. Shay felt truly sorry for everything, and passed out the other way to give the three time to talk.::

- He lowered his arm to let her pass, before looking to Willow and Salice. Once Shay left, his eyes flickered slight for a mere moment. - Next time..you should step in..not let things get out of control..

It was not my place ::salice had been the second to know.:: Nor was it mine ::willow stated:: shea should have come clean with you,not come out with it to me, or Salice. She figured we understood.. and we did, but I think I can say that we are both truly sorry.

there will be no next time victor ::salice ensured him::

He eyed the two a moment. - Still.. you two knew what happened.. - He then turned to head back upstairs. Seems this...event had caused more harm than any thought -


::they watched him got hen exchanged a look.:: Seems we are at a war again, but inside this very castle ::salice noted and willow nodded.:; I will inform ye ina day or so when to meet me in Crendia... ::the goddess was then gone.::


::Shea sat in that rocking chair with adamina letting her tears drip down her chin. She held Adamina softly, tenderly.::

- It would pass in a few days with him. Victor was still pissed about what had happened, as he slipped back into the bedroom. After making a side trip to get a bottle of milk for Adamina..Then held it out to Shea. - Here..

::she took the bottle and looked up to him, and started to feed Adamina once she woke, she knew he was mad, pissed off at her at those who had known and not said anything.::

He smiled down to them both, before moving to sit down beside her. Lightly running his fingers through Adamina's hair. -

:;Adamina drank that milk and Shea rocked her softly while watching Victors hand go through adaminas dark hair. ::

Maybe we should...take a vacation...Just the three of us. - Finally whispered to Shea -

: ::her brows rose at that.:: maybe.. ::she looked down to adamina then.:: where would we go? ::the bottle was empty and adamina nuzzled back in to sheas arms.::

He shrugged softly - We could..travel the lands..

::she nodded to that,maybe time away together was just what they would need. She looked down to adamina then back to him.:: aye

- He nodded softly to that, and moved to stand up. Then started to pack what they would need -

::she watched him, he inteneded to leave right away shea could see that. She looked back down to the sleeping adamina,then to him again. Shea knew she wouldnt blame him if he only packed his and adminas things and left ehr out in the wild some where to die, shea knew she might deserve as such.::

- Yet he looked over to her. - Just going to sit there? - Trying to joke with her. -


::she slowly rose with Adamina in her arms and crossed to him. She would hand Adamina to him before slipping on her cloak.::

- And he carefully took Adamina, then waited for her to get ready. Then turned to head out -

::she was read with in only a moments notice, then once ready to head out took adamina back in her arms.::

- And he slowly slipped his arm around Shea's shoulders, as he carried their bags over his outher shoulder -

::she moved in a touch closer to him as they moved out of the room, she didnt know where they were going but it didnt much matter to her. She would do anything to make things right again.::

- And once they started out. He slowly started to rub her arm, much like he did before all this happened -

::she smiled dimly, at the feeling of his hand rubbing over her arm, they were leaving together, at the very least things atrted off on the right foot.::

- That they were, and as nigth came..He set up camp, and got a fire going, before looking over to Adamian and her. -

::she sat there with adamian all bundled up in her arms they were just beyond the dark enchnated forest, resting in the plains of fairwinds,witht he woods as their back drop for the eve. Adamina cooed up ats eha and shea was pointing out stars to the little one.::

- He moved over to join them, and helped out with pointing the stars out to her.. As well as pointing out where each kingdom was -

::shea smiled looking down at adamina as she cooed and reached for victors fingers as he pointed. Shea was glad they had left just the three of them.::

- And he let her grab his finger, as he was glad Shea agreed for this trip..Before looking to her again . -

::Shea smiled looking down at adamina then up at him. Her smile faded slowly then. Adamina cooed and hung on to Victors finger as she started to fall alseep. Shea knew that Victor had been taking such very good care of their daughter.::

- He wiggled his finger abit in Adamina's grasp, before smiling lightly to Shea. -

::Adamina was quickly back to sleep and Shea would let him lay ehr down, he had set up everything so well,a place for them all.::

- Which he would do, before moving back to her side..Now taking her hands in his, as he sat in front of her -

::she glanced to his hands,hers fit so well in them, then up his arms and then to his face, ridden with pain and all that she herself had put him through. In his eyes she gazed.::

- And he gazed back into her eyes, showing the same pain..yet still there was that deep love he had for her. -

:: she knew he still loved her, and she still loved him, she was comitted to him, and didnt know where to begin to make things really right, she would stay with him stay by his side,do anything he asked of her. :: Victor...

- And he slowly pulled her closer, and wrapped his arms around her. Then closed his eyes - Shhh

::she found herself pressed in close to him, breathing him in as her arms went around her, she closed her eyes and let the moment wash over her, her hands gripped on tightly to him.::

- And he started to run one hand along her back, with the other running through her hair -

:;she pressed herself in close to him, brathing him in,she slid her hands up his back slowly. Tilting her head tohis hand as it ran through her hair,she pressed herself close to his chest and whispered just faintly.:: my dear sweet,evening star... ::her voice was chocked by tears though.::

Shh my morning star...- Whispered back to her, letting her cry out those tears, he knew she was holding back. -

::she pressed in closer to him and let herself cry against his chest. She lifted her head just slightly from his chest to gaze up in to his eyes. Her cheeks were tear streaked puffy and red ,her hand s slid over his shoulders and to his cheeks.:: I am so sorry.... ::she gazed in to his eyes.:: So very sorry...

I know my love..- Whispered as he rested his brow to her's - Just promise nothing like this will ever happen again..

: ::she rested her brow to his::I promise. Never ....again... ::she sniffled softly as she starred in to his eyes, he was the only one she wanted to be with, the one man she loved,more than life itself.::

In GreenStone Castle


Salice sat on her bed bretahin in deeply, she was alone, Shavyn had left to put Kaleigh down and Shea was gone with Victor. She was nearly ready to give birth. She lay back knwoing some how that no one was coming.

She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. And when she opened them again she screamed.


Shay was just downt he hall laying Kaleigh down with Kulbin at ehr side whens he ehard Salice scream. "Salice.." She looked to Kulbin whow as already ina full run for the door, she follwoe dhim and down the hall way they went. "Maybe she is going to have the baby today after all. " Shay darted around the corner and in to Salice room. "Salice.." Shay started but then note the room was empty.. "Salice?"

Kulbin tensed then, "somethings not right here..." He walked to Lonas crib slowly and looked in, "Lona is gone." Shay tensed then as well, she closed her eyes trying to sense her sister.

Then there was another scream from below, down in the court yard. "Shavyn...!" Salices vocie rang out over the din of the court yard.

"Salice!" Shay went tot he window and looked downa nd saw it, the one thing they had all dreaded for months now Salice was being dragged back by a cloaked figure.

"Devron!" Kulbin bit off and turned and ran out of the room and down the stairs as fast as he could Shay was right beside him.

"Salice!" Shay burst out the front doors right after Kulbin. But the two were gone. "Salice!"

Shay tore in to the court yard and soon Sonia came to her side, with a bloody lip. "Bastard decended upon us and took us out." She looked across the court yard tothe rising woudned Sophie. " We'll track him down."

"He has Lona and Salice... and Salice is going in to labor" Shay looked to Sonia. She looked the way he must ahve gone, "I'm gonna kill him." Kulbin held her back, " whoa whoa... I want himd ead as much as you do but you rushing in isnt going to stop him," He then took a moment, "Sonia, find Etten." Sonia nodded to that.

Greenstone Castle

No need to find Etten, as he came out of the castle's main doors. He too had a bloody lip, as well as a nice gash on his head. Cursing up a storm about someone hitting him from behind. He had senced Salice's presence being gone..as well as hearing her scream out. It was the scream that woke him.

He moved right by everyone, and headed off away from the castle. Not a word was said to anyone, as he could see they had heard Salice as well. As well as knowing they would look for her.

South of Greenstone Castle

Victor snapped away to the sudden blast of wind, and sat up looking to Shea. He then noticed the glowing pendent, and statred to say something. Only to notice her expression, and nodded lightly. " Go..I'll watch our daughter." Said softly to her, knowing she would want to go help. Now moving over to Adamina's crib, before kissing Shea on the cheek.

" I know ye promised to stay here, but they will need your help. " Whispered softly, as he smiled to her. He could sense through the land something was wrong as well. He just couldn't put a finger on the problem.

South of Greenstone Castle

" I know you made that vow to me, but right now..Your sister needs you. Go and help her." Smiling softly to her, as he motioned towards the exit of the tent. He wasn't going to stop her from helping out family, and Salice and Lona was family.

Meanwhile. Elsewhere in the land.

While Etten and the others were tracking them, there was another heading in the direction of Devron and his captives. Seems the dark knight forgot about a vow that had been made against him.

There was a cloaked figure, moving towards them now. Devron might catch the..aura around this being, as he suddenly appeared in front of them. "Seems you really are a fool. I told you if you return, I would make you suffer." Mused the cloaked form.

It was none other that Magus himself, and he was here to keep that vow to Devron. "Now be smart, and let them go. Unless you aren't man enough to face me." Said as he pushed the hood by, revealing his face. Then casually played with his gloves. Either he was here to stall them, or he was planning to take care of Devron himself. Who knew.

South of Greenstone Castle

He nodded softly to that, as he knew she would be. As he turned to take care of Adamina. Then closed his eyes, it as then he knew what was going on. " Devron."

Elsewhere

Magus held back smirking like the devil, when he caught sight of Shea behind Devron. But kept his eyes on the male, now starting to move backwards. Making sure to put distance between Salice and Lona..and Devron. More so to keep them from getting hurt, as well as giving Shea and the others..Time to get her to safety.

"Are you sure you are man enough? I mean you attack your ex wife..and your own daughter. That doesn't sound like something a real man would do." Now smirking, as he snapped that scythe from it's resting place. Knowing that insulting Devron's man hood was sure to piss him off.

Etten and company finally reached the three, with him looking to Devron as he kneeled down beside Salice. His gaze then turned to her, before embracing her and their daughter.

Greenstone Castle.


Once they returned to the castle, Etten moved down to the lounge. Now rocking Lona, while humming to her. Slowly calming her down again, it was probably yet another sight to the others..That he really did care about Salice and her childern.

There would be another surprise as oddly...Magus walked into the castle, carrying a bundle in his arms. It was none other than Adamina, whom..counting Magus..had Sophie and Sonia as guards. Seems someone had told them to return here. Shea would sure to freak when she seen Magus of all people taking care of her daughter.


South of Greenstone. Earlier.

" Sheath your scythe, Magus. He will deal with me." Victor said as he showed up on the field where they were. Arms craddling Adamina. " Take my daughter and return to the castle. You two go with him." Now looking to Sonia and Sophie. They started to object, yet the calm tone of his voice..told them to do as they were told. Once they left..His gaze turned to Devron.


Present

" For the attempted kidnapping of Salice..Queen of GreenStone castle..and Lona..princess of Greenstone castle, an attack that is a direct act of war upon the three kingdoms. You are guilty. Your sentence is death." Now his tone was harsh, and cold as he drew that sword..Devron would surely know. It was in fact and ironic twist of fate. It was Devron himself, that got this sword for Salice to give to him. And now it would be used to end his life.

" Time to face your fate, Devron. We allowed you to leave, with no one hunting you down. But now..you have insulted this family for the last time. I swear to you on this sword, that you will not leave this land alive this time. Even if it costs me my own life. You will suffer for what you have done." Yeah.. Shea was so going to yell at him, if he made it back to the castle.

Greenstone Castle

Etten glanced to Shea and nodded, before heading up. They would easily see the soft smile on his lips. He knew what he had taken on when he chose to be with Salice. Magus nodded to what Sophie said, as he handed Adamina over to her, then moved to lean back on the wall.

Once Etten moved into the room Salice was in, he smiled to her as he moved to her side. Then looked down to their son. He was just about to say something, before looking towards the door. He too felt that surge of power.

Magus would look to Shea with a smirk to what she said, before moving to help Shay with Shea. He then felt that surge of fire, and looked back to Shay at what she said. "Fool." Muttered to himself, as he helped to move Shea upstairs.

South of The valley of Dae.

Victor showed no emotion as Alaric ran off his mouth, getting Victor to look to the side. "Then you can pry it from my cold dead fingers." Said calmly about the sword as he looked back to the male. Then he attacked.

The fight was long and drawn out, at the moment..Neither gainning a full advantage over the other. With each dealing out wounds to the other, as the fight continued. Each scoring hits, yet they continued to push on.. Each wanting to kill the other.

By the time Sophie and Sonia returned.. The land showed the level of engery both sides were using. It looked like a barren wasteland again. The ground burnt and smelled of fire, and was black from it. They would also see Victor slammed up against a tree..with Alaric moving in on him.

"Is this all you got? If your prescious wind mage could see her husband like this.. She would cry. Time to finish you off, then take care of the rest of your pitifull family. Starting with your wind mage." Alaric smirked, knowing the other could sence how the fight was going. It didn't look good at the moment, as Victor slowly pushed himself to stand. His clothing was torn up in multiple areas.

One eye already closed due to a cut across it, along with various cuts all over his form. A mouth full of blood was spit out to the side, as he took in deep breaths. " Shea...forgive me." Whispered to himself, as he closed his eyes. Shea and the others would feel another sudden surge of energy.

This time they would feel it around Victor, he seemed to be drawing it into himself. Yet the more he seemed to draw in, then less they would feel his..pressence. What wever he was up to, seemed to be a one shot attack. " Alaric. Your time is over. It ends here.. Once and for all." Now leveling his good eye on Alaric.

This got him to smirk at Victor, and he charged again.. It was at that very moment, when the gap between them was closed. Victor unleashed everything he had drawn into his own form. What followed, was a large explosion of power. Centered in that area, and sure to draw attention from those in the castle. As everyone in Greenstone would see the pillar of energy, followed by the dust created by the explosion. It would be hard to tell the damage done..till that dust settled.

South of Greenstone Castle.

Slowly the dust settled, showing what had happened. A large crater was there where the two had fought, with the surrounding trees litterally shattered into millions of pieces. With one form in the middle of it, or what was left of it. It was hard to tell at the moment whom it was. Yet when Sophie and Sonia moved to inspect. It was Alaric, yet there seemed to be no trace of Victor anywhere.

At the castle.

Magus looked up a moment, after the surge ended then with out a word, shot out of the room. Moving by everyone. It was another odd move by the dark mage, but he seemed to sence something the others didn't at the moment.

He knew the others would try to ask him, but he was already gone. Etten was trying to calm Salice and their childern down, as he shook his head softly.

Later that night..After the reports came in.

It would be well after Sophie and Sonia had returned with the reports of what happened and what they had seen. It was near midnight, as the front doors to the castle would be booted open.

"Just so you know, you idiot. I'm not going to make this a habit." Said to the out cold Victor drapped over his shoulder, as he carried him inside. This was sure to draw attention now. Seeing how everyone was to to think he had gave his life in the fight.

Not waitting for anyone to say anything as he carried Victor upstairs, already knowing the others would follow suit. "I found him buried under a few rocks and trees." Now laying him down on the bed.

- It would be a week before there was any sign of Victor being healed. As oddly the help from the others seemed to have no effect. The first sigh would of been where the fight happened. As it was starting to heal over it's self now. -

::Shea had been put under time after time, each time she woke up Kulbin would make her sleep again. The cousnel had done all they could for the two and had left. Everyone was weray and worried for the two. Aiden ahd barely left his fathers sde, only to peek in on his mother and eat. Shay was with Shea half the time, Salice the other half. The castle was very quiet.::

Finally, Victor sat up, breathing in deeply. As his wounds finally healed over, before looking around. -

::Aiden was asleep now it was rather late in the evening, his head lay against the wall his hands lay upon the bed.::

Aiden : he whispered:: go to bed

::Aidens eyes opened and he looked to Victor::Your a wake... ::he smiled and shook his head.::I'm alright.. how are you?

Been better.. - He smirked lightly, then moved to stand, abit slowly. Easy to see that all he wore, was a pair of ripped up pants. -

Whoa there ::Aiden rose:: you need to rest, no going anywhere..


-He waved that off. I've been resting long enough..- Said as he closed his eyes, letting the dizzyness pass. -


::Aiden knew how stubborn he was so he just helpped him up.:: I set out some clean clothes for you, ::he motioned to the bath room.:: I didnt think you'd be getting up.. here.. I'll go fetch them..

- He nodded lightly to him. - Let everyone know.. - Now moving towards the bathroom. -


::Aiden nodded, he wasnt sure anyone was awake now but it wouldnt hurt to try.He left the room going two doors down to knock on Shays door.Kulbin answered the door and he told him and Kulbine would rosue Shay. Then Aiden darted back down the hall to Salices room and knocked.::

- Meanwhile, Victor was taking a nice long shower. Knowing Aiden would tell everyone, yet the one he was worried about was Shea. As he knew she had probably been the one that had the worst reaction to everything -
::Salice answered her door and would rosued Etten,hoping not to wake her son or daughter. Aiden the woke Mila and slwoly went in to his mothers room. Shea was still tied down, and still alseep. He moved to her side and knelt.::

After a good thirty minutes, Victor would slip out of the room he had been put in. Once again dressed in black, as he looked around. Nodding to those that had gathered around in the hall. -

::Everyone stood there outside of Shea's door. Weary and tired yet they all smiled seeing him up and about. Kulbin would be the only one to stop him before he went inside Sheas room.:: It hit her like it hit her back then, the feeling of Alaic being alive and well, I had to have her tied down and shes under a deep spell.. ::Salice stood there leaning upon the wall watching as Victor passed, he was alive,worse for the wear but alive. She would thank him later.::

He nodded lightly to Kulbin, before nodding to Salice. Then slowly stepped into the room. -

::Aiden knelt there yet nothing he tired woke the wind mage, she was out cold, her eyes closed , parts of her hands shwoed the signs of burn marks, Aiden rose and looked to her vine binds..When Victor walked in he looked back and stepped out of the room.::

- And he walked over to Shea, with a smile to Aiden then closed the door. He then moved to untie her. Then set on the edge of the bed, as he placed his hand to her shoulder. Now letting that bond they shared...go to work -

::Sheas heavy breathing started to slow at first, back to normal, those burns on her hands slowly healed and that wild fevor started to drop. The color returned to her cheeks and her eyes started to open.::

Wake up..- Whispered softly, as his hand moved up to caress her cheek. -

::Her eyes blinked as as they did thsoe vines Shay had put in place slowly unbound them sleves from her wrists and slipped in to the floor bleow the bed.Shea leaned in to thew hand,and heard his voice.:: Vic.. ::she licked at her lips and her voice sqeeked out.::

Aye. - Whispered softly as he helped her to sit up, while summoning a bottle of water. Then openned it to let her drink it. With him holdign it of course -

::Rising to sit up she opened her eyes fully and focused on him , she tooka long sip of that water it felt like ice hitting her core yet she enjoyed the feeling.::

- He smiled softly to her, before lowering the bottle. -

Shea blinked softly as her sights came in to focus. She felt as if she had been out for days. ::Your okay... ::she breathed in deeply. She didnt sense Alaric any more either..:: Oh Victor.. ::she wanted to put her arms around him but she stopped herself.::

Aye. - Nodding softly, as he waited for her to start hitting him. He wasn't one to pull a stunt this crazy -

::She idly rubbed at her wrists, knwoing she had been bound down to her bed by them.She couldnt recall a thing.. save for feeling like her blood wa son fire then the room had gone blank. She figured to hell with it and hugged him softly.::

- And he hugged her back as softly - I know..I know.. "Don't you ever do anything like this again"

: ::she smiled to that and nodded softly as she didnt let him go.:: Your out of your mind for trying that.. ::she then pulled back and kissed his lips softly.:: But I know why ye did it.. ::she smiled again,looking to him.:: I dont know what I would have done.. if he had killed ye.. :: that was a lie, she would have broken free of those binds and hunted him down.. and killed him. She would have ripped his soul from his body using her bare hands.::

- He kissed her back. - Relax my dear.. He won't be back.. and I know you.. You would of tried to hunt him down.. - Smirking at her.-


she smirked back at him:: tried.. and done so.. he'd better never come back. ::she gazed to him and pressed her hand to his cheek.::

- And he kissed her hand. - If he does.. He'll deal with me again. - He knew she would try to talk him out of it..-

::she gave him a long look at that.:: with us both.. ::she smiled then patted the bed. She knew it wwa sunlikely that he would lay there ebside ehr but she had to try.:: I bet everyone was worried about us both. ::She could almost hear everyone outside the door, moving to go back to bed.::

They were.. and no. - Giving her a long look back, before moving from her a moment. Now walking over to Adamina's crib. - I know you would fight along side of me..but...one of us would have to stay here... for our daughter's sake..

::She watched him and nodded, Adamina ahd been placed back in her crib by Aiden ealier, and she was sound asleep.:: I know.. but she kneeds us both.. ::she sighed knowing she was pushing her luck, she sat up more.:: I feel as if I need to be dunked in ice... :: she started to rise from the bed.::

- He looked over to her. - That she does..- Now moving over to her, tohelp her to stand. - Go..take a shower..

::she nodded to that as he helpped her rise. She moved slowly past Adamina's crib and in to the washroom,closing the door behind her and starting the shower. She slipped out of her day old clothes,which felt like they had been set on fire then doused with water and ice. She stepped out of them and stepped in to the cold shower.::

And he watched her a moment, before looking down to Adamina. - You are safe now, my lovely daughter..- Whispered softly -

:Adamina cooed softly in her sleeping rolling over in her crib.::

::Shea stood with her face to the shwoer spray and let the cold water wash over her, through her hair and down her face, she pressed her hand to the shower wall and started to sob softly. Her other hand curled in to a fist at her left side.::

Yet he looked towards that bathroom door, before closing his eyes. - ~ My morningstar.. Rest your spirit. " * ~

::shea blinked her eyes open when she heard Victors voice in her head. She pressed both her hands to the wall then turned off the water and stepped out of the shower and dried off and slipped in to one of those fluffy robes. She stepped out of the washroom and looked to him, her wet hair lay along her cheeks, and she forced a soft smile. She wasnt ale to rest her weary spirit.::

And he walked over to her, and slipped his arms around her. - My dear, lovely wife.. We are joined deeply...- Whispered softly - Remember.. our souls are joined.. - Seeing if she'd catch his meaning. -


::her arms went around him and she buried her face in to his chest. She knew they were joined deeply, she knew that their souls were joined, and if her spirit and soul were both weary and sad then he could feel it. She just closed her eyes and breathed him in, her hands locking together behind his back. Shea felt as if she had risen from the blackest abyss yet again.::

- And he started to stroke her wet hair and form. - Put your mind and soul at ease, My morning star. I will always be with you. Nothing will take me from you, not even death.

::She nodded tot hat, and pressed in closer to him, she ahd nearly lost him so many times int he ast days, once to herself and her stupidity then once to an enemy she thought was long dead.She had lost his trust and she thought for days now that she had lost his love.:: Oh Victor ::she breathed in and looked up at him at last her jade eyes full of tears.::

- And he leaned down kissing her very deeply. Seems he had felt the same way, as was showing her that he had forgiven her as well -

:Shea leaned up in to that deep kiss,emrabcing it with every fiber of her being. She had missed him so much, missed the way he looked at her, the way he held her at night they was his lips felt pressed to hers.::

- And he deepened that kiss much more, before slowly pulling back just from her lips. - You are forgiven...my wife..
: ::she leaned to ehr tip toes, as she ahd done so many timed before, then when he leaned back she elaned back to her normal height. He had forgiven her, she smiled softly and embraced him a bit too tightly most likely.::

- He smiled and held her closer in his arms, before smacking her bare, wet rear. - Now... go get me smothing to eat.. I'm starving.

(cross posted in wolves den)

- He smiled softly as they continued to hold the other, before he nodded softly - Aye..we can go back home. - Murmured softly to her, before catchng ehr second question. - Aye..we can go there first. - Now moving to stand up, as he had a feeling why she wanted to go there -

: ::she hugged him tightly:: oh thank you :: she kissed his cheek.:: I have longed to go home, but first I need to talk to Shea

Welcome..and I need to talk to Victor. - Now holding out his hands to help her to stand. - And I too have longed to go home, but making things right with ye..Came first

::she nodded taking his hand::I know.. :;she rose to her feet::lets go make things right with our family now

- Nods softly to that - First things first..- He slipped the ring back onto her finger, yet not the collar he had given her when they first met -

:;she smiled to the ring being placed upon ehr finger. She had missed it, but her brows rose to him not putting that collar back on.::

- It would be up to her to ask for the collar back, before he moved to embrace her. In a soft swirl of shadows..They would appear back at the castle -

::she would never be used to his metod of travling, but it was fatsre than any other route they might take. GreenStone castle felt the same as it always had,like a home to her.::

Yet he quirked a brow.. - Hmmm. - Seems Dark had caught the little bit of tension that had been left in the air -

::she glanced around the lounge was empty, and the castle was quiet.:: somethings a bit off..

- He nodded softly to her, before closing his eyes a moment.. - Seems there was a fight..but it has been settled..

::she nodded::a fight, wellt hats nothing new for this place.::Her eyes then moved someone had move din tot he doorway of the kitchen it was Aiden. ::

Yes..but it was..- He paused and looked over his shoulder to see Aiden. -
::Aiden looked tot hem both but said nothing,he just turned around and went the other way,back in to the kitchen.Jade wasnt surpised, she understood the youths feelings.:; perhpas tis a bad time

Go find Shea and Victor..I'll talk to Aiden.. - Kissing her cheek, befoer slipping from her to do just that -

::she nodded and went to go find the wind mage, she knew she was about Jade could snese ehr she started upstairs.::

Aiden? - Now moving into the kitchen..-

::Aiden stood with his arms crossed againstt he far wall.:: By all rights I should punch your lights out , but I wont.

That you should..and I fully understand why you should.. But.. I am here to appoigize to you, and our family for what happened. - Said softly to him -

:Aiden nodded to that,:: good. ::he leaned off the wall.:: I will not ever understand it.. but if Atar can forgive atara then I too can forgive..

It was two grown adults being stupid and letting a moment to over take them. - Light smile, before bowing fully to Aiden. -Thank you..that means a lot to me.

: ::he nodded:: if it ever happens again I will be the first one to punch your lights out.. ::he shifted then and passed dark by.::

Jade headed down the hall towards Sheas room,she hoped for the very best.She had put ehr anger aside,she lifted her hand to knock upon the door.

I know you will.. - And he leaned back against the wall, waitting for Victor. -

- Upstairs, it was Victor whom answered the door. - Evening..- A smile to seeing Jade, before stepping to the side..Letting the lupine enter -

::Jades brows rose to seeing Victor:: ello Victor.. ::she crossed inside.:: wheres the wind mage? I need to talk to her

- He nodded towards the chair by the fire place.. - She too has wanted to speak with you.. Is Dark here?

::Jades hues shifted to the sitting wind mage:: yes hes down stairs.. in the kitchen.. ::she crossed past him, seems the wind mage knew the lupine was coming.::

Victor left the two alone

::Jade took up a seat across from Shea and starred in tot he wind mages eyes.:: He's forgiven you..

::Shea nodded.:: and you've forgiven Dark ::noting Jades ring was back on, Shea also noted that the lupine was hurt.:: Are you alright?

As well as I can be.. we need to have a serious talk.. ::Jade was all business::



Darkmere.. - Victor was all business as well, as he stepped into the kictchen. -

I'm sorry for what I have done, to you and to our family..- Dark looked over to Victor, as they both took note the other had been in a fight. -

I see Jade has forgiven you..as I have forgiven Shea..UIt seems a near death has taught us both what he almost lost..- Victor said as he looked away -



I know, Jade I am so sorry for what happened. ::Shea leaned forward and took the lupines hands in her own.:: I do not deserve your or Victors forgiveness, but all of this has made me see things

::Jade nodded:: being near death gave me a perspective on things, I can not be angry at you or Dark forever it happend, I can not undo it, but I can do everything to keep it fromever happening again.


- A nod to Victor's words. - We are going back to Nosgoth.. - Dark said after a few moments of silence..Getting Victor to nod..-

Dark and I are going back to Nosgoth. I want to go home with him,he has earned my forgiveness but it still hard for me to not have the image of you and him together. I know he loves me..::jade tooka breath.:: and I love him.

As I love Victor.. my vows are to him, to my daughter and to my son.

::Jade nodded:: then swear now, on their lives that what happened before will never happen again..

::Shea blinked.::I swear it. I want you to trust me Jade.

::Jade nodded.::In time..::she rose::one thing though.

- Victor looked to Dark. - If this ever happens again.

It won't you have my word that it won't.. - Dark said befoer Victor could finish. -

Anything.. ::Shea answered, some how she kenw what the lupine might ask for.::

I know he would argue, if he knew, but I want that power he gave to you. I know I am with child,but I am his wife and I should eb the one to aid him with Nosgoth not you, not after all of this most of all. I dont need to know that you two share that bond..

::Shea nodded;: I want it to be yours Jade, by all rights your right it should be yours..but your iinjured and with..

I do not care ::Jade rose her voice.::

- Dark was about to continue before closing his eyes a moment..Somehow he just knew what Jade had asked for..- So be it.. - Whispered to himself. Both Shea and Jade would feel the tug of power.. With it going from Shea and into Jade. -

- Victor took notice of this, and started to say something..But knew that why it was happening..It showed him that everything was slowly being righted -

::Jade clsoed ehr eyes to the feeling rushing through her it made her arm tngle a bit but otherwise she felt alright.::

::Shea clsoed her eyes, seems everything was being righted.:: done.. Jade you know that I love you like my own..

::Jade nodded and smiled dimly.:: It will take time Shea, but I do not hate you.. you are kin..::Jade took a long breath.::

Once it was done. Victor spoke up - Give me time to trust you again..- He then turned to leave. Dark nodded softly to that as he waited for Jade -

::Jade then turned::in time wind mage.. until then,adue..

::Shea nodded and let the lupine go.::

And Victor smiled to Jade in passing before slipping back into the bedroom -

::Jade smiled to Vic then headed down back to Dark::

- Once Jade reached him, he leaned off the wall to turn and face her -

: ::she glanced to him and smiled softly.:: can we go home now?

Aye. - Smiles softly to her, before moving over to her. -
:she smiled, and walked to him, her hand softly graced his arm.::

- And he slipped his arms around her, before the pair disappeared -
::she embraced him back kwouing the trip to Nosgoth would be as fast as the one in to greenstone::

- That it was, yet he used the dual conntection to Nosgoth to take them home.. She would also now note that stronger feeling about the realm -

::she closed her eyes as she felt that sudden rush come to her as if all of Nosgfoth whispered to her.::

And he held her in his arms, letting her feel the extra tug on her body. Lettig her see why his reason for being..carefull when it came to her..He was thinking of her and their twins -

::she smiled to him, knwoing he was concerned for her and their girls.::I'll be okay ::she let the feeling seep in:: it may take some getting used to, but I'll be alright

It does.. - Nods softly - When I first..connected myself to the land.. after healing it.. - Now moving slowly from her, as he looked down .- The strain was greater on me..

::she nodded to that, she had never known how he came to find Nosgoth or become its ruler.:: It is powerful,like...nothing I've ever felt. ::she leane dup and kissed his cheek.::

- He smiled to the kiss to his cheek. - I found this place during one of my..earlier travels...It wasn't my best..period of my life.. but when my sons were born.. They showed me what the people here felt.. So I in turned - He waved his hand to motion to Nosgoth in general. -


::she nodded:: I always wondered how you came to find this place..::she took his hands in hers.:: I want to help you witht his burdan, I may not understand it all liek shea does Ive never had a home like you two have, but I will do all I can to understand it

- He nods softly - The connection to the land.. connects your life to it. - Whispered softly -

::she nodded::I will be careful Darkmere.. we are in this together

That we are. - Smiling softly, before sweeping her up into his arms. Then started towards the castle -

::she smiled softly as he swept her up in to his arms.:: I have missed being here.. :: she nuzzled in to his chest::

Back home? - Looking down at her, as he smiled when she nuzzled into his chest -

::she nodded:: yes, that and here.. close to ye. In your arms::she looked up in to him::I have missed ye you dark brooding.. man you

Oh..- Nodding lightly to that, before acting like he would drop her. - Dark brooding man.. - Playfully narrowing of his eyes - Ye were about to say something else..- Now into the castle they went -

::she snickered, knwoing he wouldnt dare drop her, not in ehr current state with his children and her arm stilla ll slung up.:: aye I was.. ::she smirked and looked from him in to the castle.::

- And off to the bedroom he would carry her. So she could get some rest. -

"We are here to see Salice." Willow stated softly.Audrey nodded to that, "I can go fetch her for you both." "There is no need." Salices voice echoed from above, "Hello Ghallon, Willow." Salice held her new born son in her arms. "Good to see you both," down she came slowly. "I assume you both are here for business."

Audrey scooped up Vanya and went on looking for Kahn.

Willow nodded, "aye, but if you'd rather wait." Salice shook her head, "Nae,please go in to the lounge." Willow nodded and led the way in Salice then lingered outside with Ghallon. "Before we go in to discuss things..how fares your brother?" Meaning Dark.

"I am glad to hear it. "She then smiled over at Etten as he sat beside her. Audrey smirked at Kahn and hadned Vanya over to him."My turn to hide, this time I am going to win."She darted downt he hallway and out of sight. Willow then watched Gabe enter,she was glad for it, that emant eprhaps the lupine and ehr dark lover were making up. "Yes I called this meeting, seems were all here and accounted for, there is a new issue upon the table."

Salice sat forward slowly, "an issue?A bad one?" As always Salice expected bad news. "I am unsure." Willow stated flatly, " some old...blood has come in to Crendia,ones that were once family, but often switched sides.They wish to build just outside of the main city int he open fields of Crendia.." Salices brows rose tot hat, "old blood? " "The Cutless men." Salice did not know that name,the only one who ahd any knowledge of Willwos past ebsides her sona nd Ghallonw as Shea and the wind mage was all tied up at the moment.

"Michael ,Ryker and Damein Micheal is the eldest fo them all,he is their leader, James,Darwin,Darin Ryker and Damien are his sons. Darin and James are dead by my hand. They wish for an allaince. They brought a horde of dragon riders witht hem which is both Rykers and Damiens specialtiys. I am unsure if they can be trusted..I wanted everyone to come to Crendia, but that is not doable with things as they are." Salice nodded, "I could send someone in my place, though I doubt Shea would want to go back, and I am sure Lord Alcar could trust in Ghallon and Gabe to see things through if a meeting is needed. "

"It may be.." Willow then glanced to Ghallon he had alredy met the trio,Willow wanted his input.

Vanya ran down the hall way after Audrey.Giggling the whole way.
Willow listened as did Salice. "I agree with Gabe and Ghallon."Salice then looked to Willow, "it is not wise to trust them. " Willow agreeded fully to that, "As I do agree I do not trust any of them even the ones who ahve never fully on atatcked me or mine, but what a e we to do about them? A full on front will casue a war,a war Crendia can not have. I would like to prevent a war, but I know them they will not leave with out some due cause." Salice leaned forward then, " they are planning something...they want to bide your time..."Salice then looked down at Dalryn as his little fingers curled around her one.. it then dawned on Salice what these men could be after. "These are men whom you know, men who youve fought with and against... they are also kin to your son."


Willow nodded, she had thought about that, hince why she had sent Shaun with Aiden to Nosgoth along side their ladies. Willow wasnt risking her son being taken away again. "My son is out of their crasp, I will not risk him." Salice then rocked back softly, " if it is a war they want it may have to ahppen, though it will be on your grounds not theirs..In any case,they can not be trusted...your actions must be swift Willow, become the warrior you are not the ruler you have ebcome, we all must fight if a fight it brought, though I would liek to avoid war as much as anyone else, the kindoms in Edhel Ndor shall abck you if it comes to that" Willow sat back and nodded, now what were they do do?

Novella was right behind him, that sudden shift in the air would announce the wind elementals coming. Salice turned her sights upon Magus, "some of us can not go off half cocked against our enemies. We have our familys to think of in this coming battle if there is to be one at all." Willow just shot the Shadow mage a long look, seems news spred fast seems everyone heard of Mgaus's fight with Alaric and his victory. "Though," Salice continued, "I do thank you for what you have done." Her view then panned back to the others.

"in all seriousness, I do oddly agree with Magus."Willow stated, sure to geta few looks. "If it comes too war then we will wipe them out, other wise will will state our firm choice. I can tell you all right now they will nto simply goa way without a fight. A fight some of us are not able for at the moment." Not only were half of the best warriors mothers now, but the other halfw ere busy or woudned like Magus. " Though it pains me to say this, I think I'll let them sit, and think awhile they can do no ahrm as they are, even with their numbers, then once we are truly able to handle them if it comes to a battle then and only then will I proceed."

Salice slolw handed Dalyrn to Etten and took Lona . "It is after all your choice. The kingdoms will back you, either way".She then rose, " now if you'll forgive me, its time for these two to eat and take a nap." She nodded to Willow,Ghallon and Gabe then also to Magus before leaving the room. As she left Vanaya scampered in tot he lounge hiddng behind the loveseat. She held ehr finger to ehr lips and hid there.
Novella looked to Vanya then to the parting Salice, where was Shea at this hour?

Shea was upstairs with Victor as he made good on his dare.

Willow then rose slowly. It was time to go back home, shed let the Cutlass men brew a few days,let the ebst of the best get healed and come to terms with things as they were then and only then would she go and speak with them again.

"I am not soft."Shea shot AVic a long look. "And Etten is getting soft." She smirked as she watched Salice and Etten dash down stairs past those in the lounge.

Salice snickered as she ran ducking along the back of the couch, only to be pelted by pillows. Vanya giggled as she watched Salice dart through the lounge. Audrey smirked watching on seeing that look Kahn had. "Vanya, why don't you take Kaleigh up for a nap with the others." Vanya smiled, "oohh can I auntie Shay?" Shay nodded, " yes dear."

Vanya lifted Kaleigh up with ease then and carried the lil one off.

" You are to soft. " Giving her a poke to that long look, with a smile added in to boot. " See..You still have some of your baby fat." And he darted from her and into the lounge.

Etten was still chasing Salice, with Kahn pointing to the back door. Once Vayna left with Kaleigh, he looked to the two women still there. "Now..as we were saying. If it wasn't for you women craving us..dark natured men. There wouldn't be all these kids running around."

Etten slide to a stop as he stepped out of the lounge, then scanned the area. A smirk as he heard the snickerign bush, but moved by it like he didn't.

Victor caught the comment about Shea's look, befiore looking over his shoulder. The chuckled and he bolted out the door that Salice and Etten used.

Kahn watched the two couples run by, then shook his head. "Well..Shea's always been wild.."

Victor was looking over his shoulder, before suddenly being flat on his back. It got him to blink a moment, before seeing that it was Salice that had pounced him. He then heard Shea. Looking from Salice to Shea a moment, he chuckled while grinning.

" Oh calm down, Shea. She only pounced me, not like she's all over me. " Though the current postion so said otherwise. Seeing how Salice was laying over him at the moment.


Etten turned to see what the commotion was, before smirking at the sight. "I think she is just jealous, that her husband was pounced by someone other than her." Now walking towards the two. He wasn't pissed either way.

Victor chuckled to Salice teasing Shea, before taking the offered hand up. Then gave a little shudder at the stroke ti his arm, more to aid in Salice little game. " You could be? " Leaning down to Salice's ear, murmuring for her to continue this. With hims face being blocked now. Waitting for Salice to act like more was going on than what it seemed.

Etten looked to Shea now, watching her turn red. Now waitting for her to really go off now. Seeing how Salice seemed to have "wooed" her husband.

Victor smirked to the wild comment, before looking to Shea. " Your sister is a wild one too." Side glance and wiggle of his brows to Salice, and just to add more fuel to the fire. Blew a kiss to her, just as Shea moved over to try and push them apart.

Etten found the whole scene rather comical, seeing how Salice and Victor were teasing Shea. With poor Shea seeming to think they were dead serious. So..He started to chuckle at the three.

Victor chuckled when Shea started shoving Salice towards Etten, then smirked to her calling them bad. " Like you are one to talk." A flick to her nose, before chuckling to Salice pouring it on.

Etten shook his head slightly, when Salice was shoved in his direction. "I think she is just jealous. Seeing how you pounced her husband..like she did.." Leaving it at that, sure to get a glare from the wind mage.

Etten would slip an arm around Salice when she was pushed into him, then smirked to the kiss. His gaze moved back to Shea as she continued to huff and puff. " You know..she's kinda cute when she trys to puff herself up."

That got a chuckle from Victor, then looked to Shea when she smacked his arm. " Nothing wrong with flirting." Flashing her a grin, before back to Salice and Etten a moment.

" I could go flirt with Novella." Said just to rile Shea up even more, with Etten kissing the top of Salice's head. He then chuckled to hearing the group.

"I could see why..She is fiesty one." He so wasn't helping matters.

" That she is. " A chuckle from Victor, as he dared to ruffle Shea's hair after Salice's comment. Then a sweet innocent smile to Shea at her puffing up yet again. He tried not to chuckle again, before getting his arm hit again. " So violent" Another pat to the top of Shea's head.

Etten found this whole scene comical, as he watched the three. More so when Salice moved slowly towards Victor. Whom bent over a bit to allow Salice that smack to his rear.

"He could go flirt with Jade. Take a page out of your book." Looking to Shea with a smirk. That was sure to get poor picked on Shea to glare at him.

Victor would look over his shoulder to Salice at the butt smack, then blew her a kiss with a wink. He then gave her butt a little smack in return. " Yeah..She's sure to be just as fiesty as Shea was when she was with child..Maybe more so." A wiggle of his brows, before chuckling to Shea swatting at her sister.


Etten smirked at Shea. "I got something you can use that on." In that usual tone of voice, that deep and rather dark laced one. Victor chuckled to that, while failing to give Etten a hard look.

Kahn who had heared the racket, had moved to the door to see what was going on. Before seeing the three picking on Shea. " Could be worse.. We could get all the women in the three kingdoms here, and let each one have a shot at the big guy." Of course meaning Victor, whom gave a very convincing look of thinking about doing that.

Victor chuckled to Shea whinning at Salice, before slidding behind Etten, to scoop Salice up. He then bolted towrds the stables. " You kids have fun!" Over his shoulder with a grin.

Etten looked over his shoulder to the pair running off, then moved to stall Shea as long as he could. Kahn motioned the others to the door to watch the scene.

Victor wiggled his brows at Salice. " Who said you would break me..I might just break you." Said loud enough for Shea to hear, as they rounded the corner of the castle. Once they made it to the stables, he carefully carried Salice into the hay loft. Before setting her down, then laid down to see if Shea would be able to find them.

Etten continued to hold Shea off long enough for them to disappear, before letting her go. "Ya'll better hide! She's on her way!" Giving the pair a head's up, while trying not to laugh at Shea being all huffing, puffing and very jealous.


Kahn chose that moment to help the pair out, as he gestured his hand. Aimming to get vines to shoot out of the ground to lace around the wind mage's legs. Just to make things harder on her.

Etten chuckled to seeing Shay helping to tie Shea up, then winked to the others. He then slid up to the tied up wind mage. "I bet your sister is having a bit of fun with Victor at the moment. Both of them all alone, and you all tied up here." Grinning at her before heading back into the castle.

Kahn winked back to Shay, before laughing to hearing Etten. "And I bet both of them are enjoying it." Kahn knew nothing was happening, but it was so much fun to pick on Shea.

Meanwhile, Victor turned to lay on his side, before chuckling to Salice's words. " True, there would be a scandal. And you are quite a catch as well. " He peered over the edge of the hay loft a moment, seeing Shea hadn't found them. " Guess they are having their own fun now."

The two men looked to Anarya, both giving her big grins. They watched as she moved by Shea to find Salice. "Poor Shea. All tied up while her husband and her sister roll around in the hay." Etten teasing the wind mage more, before ducking back into the castle.

Kahn chuckled to that, before looking to Shay. "You really don't think Salice would be that mean? All cuddled up to big bad Victor?" Trying to make it sound like he was concerned, but the grin gave it away he was enjoying this.

Meanwhile..in the hay loft.

" I bet they are. " Vicotr chuckled, before looking towards the voice, not expecting to see Anarya. Light bow of his head to her. " Lady Anarya. We are just having a bit of fun. " Polite smile to her, before looking back to Salice for a moment, then back to Anarya.

Etten chuckled to that, as he walked by Shay. Kahn chuckled to that, befoer leaning to Shay, acting like he's gonna whisper. "Seeing how she's all tied up..You could join in with the fun."

Hay loft.

Victor moved to his feet as soon as Aiden's name was mention, before catching that it wasn't Aiden that was in danger. " Shaun." Said softly, and the moment that name left his lips. A figure in white would appear behind him. He knew who it was, and felt the energy around the male.

"Yes.. tell us what is going on."" Ghallon wasn't in a playing mood. He had been with Willow as she rested, but Victor had contacted him..

Loft.

Once Salice finished filling Victor and Ghallon in, the elder Alcar gave Victor a sharp look. "Head to Nosgoth and inform Darkmere of what is going on." He didn't wait for a responce from either Salice or Victor, as Ghallon disappeared.

" Oh boy..this is not good." Victor knew where Ghallon was going, before he looked to Salice. " It's been fun. " A wink to her, before his form flickered from sight. Leaving Salice to inform the others.

Etten nodded to Salice, before turnning to find Magus and drag the two captured men out for Salice to give her own brand of interegation to them. It didn't take him long to find the shadow mage. Who was standing guard over the pair. "What's going on?" In a glance to Etten.

"We got trouble. I have a feeling there's going to be another fight. Go see if you can help Ghallon." Magus nodded and headed off to help Ghallon after helping to drag the two men out.

Kahn nodded to Salice, before heading into the castle to help Aubrey wiith the baby sitting duties. It wasn't long after that, when Victor returned. With a certain brooding one and his brooding wife in tow.

Witht he dangers for now in the past, many returned back home to GreenStone. Save for Shay and Kulbin. They stayed behind in Nosgoth for Kulbin had to train Shaun for a full week. The listw as set now. It seemed odd that Sira was now gone. She had gone with Damien back to Sim'Tahl. Salice and the others now knew all about the once great place known as the south blade. Willow had shared with them the tale.

"Sim'Tahl was once apart of Crendia, it lay far beyond the Bay of Doves. It wa slike Crendia once, green lusha dn full of its own people. People much like Damien. A strong warrior class. It was ruled over by a duke, who in turn answered to Darius back in the day. It ahd its own problems, up risings of creatures and magic . But when Darin first came upon it he saw it was weak. So with out even consitering what it would do to the realm he tore Sim'Tahl free of Crendia using magic to spearte it from the rest of the realm. This was long after he and I had ended and when he had first begun to turn truly evil. He killed the duke and took the place over as his own, keeping his family there was no trouble for him, thsoe allied to me were imprisoned or fled. "

" The people who did not listen to him were turned by magic in to horrid creatures not human any longer but a mix of wolf,orc and dragon. In this time many people of the dunes went to fight there, they were our greatest fighters and alas we lost many. " Willow had explained to Salice ealier how Sira ahd found out the truth about her father that he had not just up and left his fmaily for dead, he had gone to fight the war and never returned. Kulbin had held his anger towards his father for so long till now, now he knew the truth. Their father had gone to Sim'Tahl and never come home again, which had cuased Kulbin to leave and join the forces of Crendia's army and Sira and her mother to be alone, and thus ending in their mothers insane state before she died. It also explaiend to Salice why Kulbin has let Sira go so freely to Sim'Tahl.

"So Darin ruled there till I killed him. But he has always been powerful even in death so his fmaily could go and come from there and kept it as it was. I am amazed tos ee anyone survived. Damien must have lived through hell. And if any survived at all after what Aza did, I would be surpised at the very least. But if he is successful in returning Sim'Tahl to what it once was, then time there shall return to the same as it is in our relams, but I doubt very much that many magic in the world could bring Sim'Tahl back to being a part of Crendia as it used to be.At the very least if no one survied people will return there once it is safe again." Salice recalled the tale in full as she wrote it down in the book that held the tales of the allied worlds. There toow as the tale of Crendia and what she knew of Nosgoth. they were accompyed by her mothers and fathers written hand about Edhel Ndor and its early days.

Salice hoped that with time Sim'Tahl would go back to what it once wasIt would need a good leader,but perhaps if any had survived the spells of Darina nd Aza they would find that leader in Damien.

- Poor Shea.. It was just one of those bad luck days for her. Victor was in the lounge, and overheard everything. He waited for Salice to move off, before stepping out of the lounge. Moving towads the stairs where Shea was sitting -

::her face was in her hands,and she was breathing deeply.So trying to calm her self,when she heard footsteps.::

Victor stopped in front of her, arms crossed over his chest. Slowly looking down to her. -

: ::She saw his boots, she knew it was Victor she didn't have to look up to know it was him and how he was standing she knew that too. She didn't speak, she didn't say a word.::

- He didn'y say anything either as he just watched her for a long couple of moments, before moving to head up the stairs. -

::She let him go,let him pass her by.Still slient,not moving. Once his foot steps faded behind her She lifted her head, her cheeks streaked with tears..Then she ran for the doors.::

But there was another that had heard the whole story..And so not the person Shea wanted to see. Just as she pasted the lounge. Lang stepped out. Catching the wind mage - Woah there

::shea starred at him, anger still in her now fully silver eyes:let me go or I will hurt you.

Settle down Shea...and think..- Lang held tight to her. -

::Shea starred at him::think about what. I am a horrible person Lang worse than anyone... I shouldnt be here... ::tears still ran down her cheeks:;now let me go before I do something I regret

And if you run..You'll only make things worse. - Shoving her back from him a couple of steps - You run..and you will lose everything that you hold dear.

::Shea starred at him through her tears::I am not running. I have already lost that which I hold dear. Victor would be better off with out me. I am going to Novella and asking her to send me to he wind realm. There I can do no more harm to the man I love.

You are running. - A demonic growl from him. - You wish to prove to everyone that you still love your family? Then go upstairs to your husband, and forsake all others. I don't care how much those other men mean to you. They aren't the one you chose to marry.

::Shea starred at him,then looked to the stairs then to the door.:: He could never forgive me,not this time. I love Victor,but I do him no good. ::she sank to the floor then.::

Did you cheat on him again? - Now crossing his arms -

No..::she shook her head:: ::But in her mind she knew she might as well have cheated on him again. :: If you heard everything as he did you know what I have done

Fine..- He moved to leave her there - Run for all I care.. All you are doing is showing everyone how weak you are.. - He looked over his shoulder as he neared the steps - And how little Victor and Adamina mean to you. - Oh Lang knew he crossed the line there, but he moved on up the stairs -

::normally she would have said somehting back, but he was right. Shea watched him go then looked to the doors then rose to her feet and slowly, very slowly walked upstairs. Mina,Aiden and Victor meant the world to her. She could not run. She slipped past the rooms,towards Minas nursery.::

- And there was Victor, holding Mina in his arms. Softyl rocking her in his arms. While feedign her with a bottle -

::She slowly looked in at Victor and Mina. Shea sniffled softly trying not to cry. Her loving devoted husband,and her lovely perfect daughter.::

- Victor looked over to her, before looking back to Mina. - Shea..

::Mina seemed to sense shea there and started to reach out her little hand. Shea moved in slightly,looking to Vcitor then.::Victor..

I know what happened..and of your feelings.. - Now looking to her slowly again. - and I know there is nothing I can do about it..So I ask you this..are you happy with me?

:Shea starred at him. She was happy with him.Shea knew that.::
Yes ..::she stpped in another two steps,reaching her hand form Minas little fingers that were still outstreched.::

- he nodded softly to that, before softyl handing Mina to her. - She has been missing you.

::shea took her daughter in her arms and smiled softly,running her fingers over Minas hair and soft face.::And I her :: she kissed Mina's brow.::

Victor watched Shea a moment, before sighing softly - I have put up a lot with you Shea. Just be lucky Aiden is still recovering..I know he would be in here talking to you.

::She looked from Mina who was falling asleep in her arms back to Victor::I know...

- He looked to the side for a moment, then back to her. - I don't mind you going to Rhy'Din..but it appears as if that is starting to become a problem now..

::Shea lay Mina back in to her crib.:: I know... ::She brushed away her tears and looked to him again. She knew it was wrong of her to go there,knew it with all of her heart::

- He shook his head as he moved to sit down now. - And I know I can't keep you from going..

:;she stood still,very still. Watching him go to sit. She wanted to fall tot he floor,but she didnt move.::

He looked down to the floor now as he just sat there now. Not sure what to say or do -

::she looked to him then to their daughter and let a few more tears fall, before she sat to the floor.:: Victor.. ::her voice cracked.:: I am so sorry, you deserve so much better than this. I should have told you from the beginning. I thought I could be there and be near all the old memories and be able to just be there and that all would be fine... but it wasnt... and I know it...

He slowly looked up and to her as she started to speak. -

::she slowly brushed the ash from her arms and looked at the floor.:: It started out so simply, just talking,then all of a sudden I and he started recalling old times, it made me miss them, and him.More than i should have.I should have stopped and come home right then, but I didn't . I love you. You are my husband, and this is my home. I want no other man to be in my thoughts or dreams but you. And I am a horrid person... and if you want nothing to do with me. then you dererve to stay here. and I shall go .Your a better parent to my son and our daughter. And a good man that I do not deserve .

- He listened to her words, before moving to stand up and walked over to her. - And if I asked something else of you..Would you do it?

::she looked up to him:;yes...

- He nodded and slowly held out his hands to her. -

::shea held her breath, what was he going to ask.She held back her tears, her jade eyes looking up at him. She was so mad at herself,she had set the no name inn on fire,to try and end the past.But it had done no good. She starred up at him, before slowly taking his hand.::

And he slowly helped her to her feet. Before slowly starting to wipe her eyes of the tears. - I know you care a lot for the men that have passed through your life.. this is advice..not a demand.. But you should avoid them if you can.

: ::she nodded looking to him. She could not very well avoid Darkmere,or Adaron even as dead as he was.but Connar she could and he was the problem.:: I will... ::she leaned in to his touch:: Oh Victor.. ::she sobbed softly.::

Shhh.. I know you and Dark have a connection..but he is respectfull enough not to bring it up. Even when you two are alone. - A kiss to her brow -

::she leaned in to him still sobbing.:: You are too good for me ::she sobbed in to his chest:: I can avoid Connar, he is the issue not Darkmere...
- He moved his arms around her. Softyl stroking her hair, and letting her cry her soul out into his chest -

::She breathdi in deeply as she pressed her head in to him. She breathed him on and sobbed sniffling now and again, she could feel his hands go through ehr hair which she new was ashy too.::

But he didn't care, before leaning her back as he could look down at her. Brushing a few tears from her cheeks. And so smearing some ash on her cheeks. -

::she starred up at him and smiled softly.:: I am truly sorry... I love you and am very happy with you..

I know..- He then tilted his head. Shaking out some ash from her hair. - Close your eyes.

::she closed her eyes then.:: what are you doing?

He grinned and just smeared that ash on her face. - There..- Now starting to back up from her. -

::she opened her eyes:: thanks ::she knew she was ashy and dirty .She stuck her tongue out at him.:;I'll go bathe now.. ::poking at him as he backed away.::

Yeah.. - He grinned and watched her head towards the bathroom. - You were always a dirty girl.

::She just grinned at him.:: your very bad Victor... ::shaking her head at him as she slipped out f view.:: Your the one that married me...you knew I was dirty then

- he smirked to that - True.


::then shea enjoyed a much overdue shower. Washing the soot and ash from her arm and face and all the rest of her.::

- And Victor moved to watch their sleeping daughter -

Vanya bouunced to Victors side. "Uncle Victor" She hugged his leg. Audrey smiled to him watching Magus go, wondering where the shadow mage was off to so well equiped." Did you hear the news Vcitor.Jade had thre twins this morning."


All of the castle those who were awake were buzzing with the news. "It seems it was harder than jade thought it might be Lady Felan had to be rushed in,Alces and Tala were already there thank goodness. But the news I hear so far is good.Salice sent it in this morning. She's in Nosgoth as you know."Vanya bounced around them smiling.

Vanya then cuddles up in to Victors lap. "Mommy maybe uncle Victor can help you choose a name." Audrey smirked, " Kahn and I can not decied ona name for our son." She too would have a new baby, another one to add tot he fold.

Vanya hugged Victor then bounced to Kahn and sat in his lap. "Hi Daddy."

Audrey smiled and nodded to Victor,"it would take a steel door and more to keep Darkemre from his children." Vanya bounced in Kahns lap. Audrey smiled looking towards the two.

"Uncle Victor wasnt any help still no name for baby brother."

Audrey snickered softly. "Shes dead set on this."

After everyone had gone from the castle, which left Victor and Shea in charge of the castle. With Victor asuring Salice that everything would be taken care of. He would be splitting his time between taking care of the matters of court.

As well as spending time with Shea and Mina. At the moment, he had just slipped into the room where the two were at. " I don't see how anyone puts up with all this. " Chucking as he leaned against the door frame.

Lucky for Salice.. He had probably the best two teachers when it came to royal matters. That being Darkmere and Ghallon.

He smiled to watching Shea and Mina, then leaned down to pick her up. " Of course I will come with you two. Someone has to make sure mommy behaves herself. " Sticking his tongue out at his wife.

He then pulled out a stuff little horse for Mina, and handed it to her. He so spoiled the girl, as he turned to head downstairs. And could hear Shea fussing later, than she was so going to be daddy's little girl.

" When you grow up.. I want you to pick the rogueish guy you can find. Just so you can drive mommy crazy. " A glance over his shoulder to Shea, flashing her a grin. Knowing already that Shea would do just about anything to keep Mina from finding a rogue like her daddy.

" Are you jealous? " Teasing Shea as they moved out of the castle and into the town. Being polite to the towns people that came up to talk to them. Answering any questions they had, while letting Shea do most of the talking.

Seeing how she was mroe used to this than he was. " Seems mommy likes to yap. " Whispered to Mina, as he bounced her lightly in his arms. Sure to get a glance from the wind mage.

He flashed Shea a grin to her look, before moving to follow the wind mage. " You do to yap.. You also just love to be a grouchy old woman, that fusses at everyone. " Peering around Mina as he moved her up to let her lay her head to his shoulder.

" Besides, I could kidnapp MIna and go she Jade and her two kids.. Maybe even Novella. " Teasing her as he knew how jealous she is, and could get with him.

He chuckled at Shea. " Right. You prefer to be the cranky old woman, who ruins everyone's fun. " Teasing her, before tilting his head to her comments about Jade and Novella.

" I think I could get Jade to kidnap me, while you are sleeping. I'm sure she'd be a load of fun to play with. " Wiggling his brows at her, before darting after Mina. So putting space between him and the wind mage.

He flashed her a smile. " I'm sure Salice would herlp her out too. " Winking at her. " Like she did at Aiden's wedding. The both of them keeping my lap warm. " Teasing her, as he remember how she reacted to that.

He then laughed softly to Mina with carrot fangs. " When you get older.. you'll have a real pair. " Poking their daughter on the nose. " Which will make your mother all the more jealous. " He knew he was going to pay for all this later.

Victor snickered at Shea. " Very good leg warmers. " He then looked to Mina, with a big grin. " Really, and you are going to be the catch of some rogue's eye too. " Now starting to eat, before looking around a moment. Then glanced to Shea. He senced someone was coming.

Just then the brooding one appeared, dead serious as he looked between the two. " I hate to interupt, but somehting was brought to my attention..You two need to be at the meeting. It concerns Shaun." His tone held a touch of anger in it, as he was trying to keep from saying to much in front of Mina.

Shea returned home first leaving the Nosgoth castle and Victor behind. She couldnt stay there one more moment. So she took Mina home back to GreenStone she knew eventually Salice would come home, and then soon enough Victor as well. But for now she had the castle to herself.

Shea just starred at him a moment. "I needed the air."

"Go on then, go find the lupine, I'm sure you two have earned it by now." Shea crossed the room then . He was teasing she knew his tone, she also knew Jade might toy with the idea but would never do anything with Victor. She was better than that. Shea was in one of those moods, after the circle. She stalked away as best she could to the far corner of the big bedroom.

Victor sighed and shook his head as she stalked off to brood yet again. He then moved towards her, before giving her cute little elven butt.. A light kick to get her attention. She scowled at him "dont try and be cute with me Victor Walsh" "And don't you scowl at me, Shea Greenstone Walsh. " Shaking a finger at her. "We all know why you are brooding.. "She scolwed more and why do you think I am brooding "Because you held your lover boy's hand. " Teasing her


She shook her head "dont call him that..".she crossed her arms and huffed He tried not to grin. "Make me.. unless you'd rather go pounce him ." Slowly backing up from her. She growled at him Your pushing your luck Victor" she poked at his chest while he backed away "That so?" Looking down at where she poked. " Everytime you are around him.. You pay me no attention.."

I do so pay you attention" she sighed "Your my husband you get the best of my attention" " Like now? " Moving to sit down. Pulling one of her moves by acting all hurt. Did he just sniffle? She sighed and slowly went and sat ebside him "Oh Victor.. I am sorry "she sighed again "Its just it threw me off... the whole circle of power thing... Salice thinks im over reacting just like you do." She touched his cheek "I dont mean to brood And he tugged her into his lap, before flashing a sly grin at her. "Got you".


"Hey" she sighed "you tricked me" but she liked siting in his lap so he got a smile from her He smirked. "Was the only way to get you to stop whinning. " And he so kissed her before she could say a word. she was about to say something before he kissed her, that was the sure fire way to shut her up


And he slowly leaned back from that kiss, before lightly tapping her nose. she smiled dimly and opend her eyes to the tap on her nose He grinned at her. " Feel better now?" " yes "she admitted "You do make me feel better, but I feel worseabout treating you badly " He nodded lightly before lifting her up to stand, only to bend her over his lap. Grinnging sweetly at her. Uh oh.



"Hey" she wiggled "Victor!" she wiggled more "dont you dare" " Oh.. a dare.." He grinned and started to spank her.. With on hand trying to keep her from wiggling free. She wiggled more "Victor!" she whipped her arm back and gave his chest a poke and a little zap of magic "stop it." ". Nope.. you needed a spanking. "Spanking her rear a little harder. " For how you have been acting. " she wiggled more, still trying to get free
"And you know you like it." More spanking of her butt. she snickered and zapped him again playfully with magic "" No I dont wiggle wiggle, less fighting more wiggling And he popped her butt more. "You so do." Now sending his own pulses to make those swat feel like he was using two hands

She pouted and wiggled more" that one hurt "another zap He grinned and finally let her sit up. She sat up and rubbed at her back side" Its going to be all red now " she poked his nose softly "Won't be the first time. " Grining wildly at her.. " Seeing how I've been seen spanking you twice. "

she shook her head at him "rogue " " Your point? "He poked her stomach. she shrugged "I have none "she smiled softly then and took a long breath "no more brooding I promise " " And if you do.. Everyone we know gets to spank you.." Grinning at her. she scowled at tha "tFine.". she agreed to those terms, she wouldnt have to brood she could stay away from Nosgoth and Darkmere and all that brooding feeling she got from him and all that, she wouldnt lose this bet
He smirked to that as he looped his arms around her now. "Shall we take a trip to visit our friends?" Her brows rose "which friends?" He grinned slowly. " Oh just a certaion group of friends in Nosgoth. "

She saw him and smirked, closing the throne d om doors behind her. All streche dout in her throne like he owned the place. "Well well well, look what the cat drug in.." His question made her shrug just a touch, and she didnt answer right away just gave him a long look. "Maybe I did."

Maybe she missed him? Or maybe she had found herself a new man. She walked towards him and when they met in the middle she pressed her hand to his chest and gave hima nice cold jolt of ice down his spine. Then she nudged him back in to the throne. Once he was seated she sat in his lap. "Welcome back." She gave him a soft yet deep kiss. "And oh yes, I did find myself a new man." Grinning softly. "Didnt you hear, Victor and I had a torrid little affiar." so joking, so trying to get him riled up.

Hera didnt like sleeping alone,she never did, so leaving the cottage in the middle of the day she went off to work in Rhydin then came back to Edhel Ndor.

Least here she wasnt alone even if Lang was gone. He had said three things to her before he left. "Try not to get in any trouble." Was the first, "I'll be back before you know I've been gone," was the second and the thrid was, "Amin Mela Lle." She had to smile now as she lay on the lounges couch thinking about the last one, she didnt even know he rouge knew elven, but it shouldn't have surpised her.

And hour ago she had come in no one around, not a sound in the world. She wasnt worried about this mission of his, he did a lot of things solo, or well rather with out her. The Fire Child could deal but by the sound fromt he other room, now Shea could not. She snickered and closed her eyes again. Hera knew the mage had a way of getting overworked.

"Just calm yourself seler, why dont you go ask Hera shes in the lounge."

Oh great the queen had given her spot away, how did she even know she was here. Oh well Hera thought, I've battled beasts of every kind Sheas not too bad. She started to rise when Shea came in the doorway.Too late to sprint for the garden door,damn it.

"Hera," There was that blank silver stare of the mage. Hera just leane dto the wall, mid escape. "Hey Shea, whats up?" Oh tightly wond one, oh stick up the... one.Hera would have said. Shea just starred at her.

"I know you know something.."

"If you mean I know where they went, I don't.Lang didnt tell me, so I assume its dangerous.But I am not worryed, he can handle himself and so can Victor, you dont see V asking us all where they went, and Rune just came back to her.. Victor will be. And until he comes back why not go tend to Mina, see your son, and try not to have such a stick up your..." There was that cocky side.

Shea stepped closer, eyes glowing bright silver. "You know nothing.." Hera shook ehr head, "Nope.." Sheas eyes flared brighter , then got errie and dark and she stalked off with out a word. Hera felt ehr skin crawl a little. "Yikes.."

Meanwhile

Anala had finally come back from V's room, leaving the vampire to brood, of corase she knew Gabe and Raz where still in Nosgoth,s he could feel ehr husband. But she wasnt about to tell Shea that they were botht still ehre. And Anala being as wise as she was knew Etten and Magus likely knew somehting about the secret mission. But Shea was in Heras hands now so Anala gardre Jade was siting with Azura,Angel,Mina, and Warner.

Jade smiled to the water mage. She could hear ten and Salice inside in the kitchen. She knew he knew where the men ahd gone, but she wasnt going to ask. Shea was the nosy worry wort. Jade just watched the girls play. "Think Salice has told him yet?" Anala shrugged, "I don't know, I don't want to know."

Anala lifted Mina up and smiled. "I am amazed Shea let you watch her." Jade just grinned, "I would never let any ham come to any child,but I assure you one day Shea and I will settle things out,once and for all."

"Have you seen Sheas hair as of late?" Jade nodded, "shes going silver, like salice.." "Aye, likely she wont go all silver, least not yet. Tell me Jade how much do you know about the GreenStone women?" " Some,likely not everything. They keep to themselves, save for Shea."

"My sister hides her self well." It was Salice, Etten was behind her. She sat beside Mina lifting the girl in to her lap. "Youve been our ally for along time now Jade, even before you were married to Darkmere. Its aboout time you got some of my family history. " Anala settled in with Warner on her lap.Salice wondered if Etten would stay or wander off during this little history lesson for Jade.

"It all started long ago, before there was a castle here, or a kingdom in these lands. When Cala,the anestor to all GreenStones was just a child. She was born ina different time, when women did not have the choice of who they would marry. No back then there were tribes of elves living in this realm, differnt tribes. And Calas tribe lived right here where we sit. She grew up and soon ebcame a woman, ready to marry and pass on the life line. She was always powerful, she always had a way with things. Nature,spirits,the light and dark. They day coame and men from each tribe came here to fight,to do the tasks set forth by Calas father.The winner would win her hand in marriage. "

Jade nodded, she could see this world unfold as Salice spoke of it, a wild world.

"The silver warrior known as Iliv. He was a handsome silver elf, as the story tells it. And she was taken with him from the moment she saw him. AAnd to his luck, he won each trial. And he won ehr hand, and they went in tot he valley of Dae, to.. well. Do what married people do." Jade smirked at that.

"Cala became with child,but times were very different back then, though she wanted very much to raise the child,it was forbidden, and at birth the boy was taken from her. That boy was Astalder. She eventaully out of greife died, yet she passed on beyond, to become something more. A goddess, if you like. Astalder soon met Anarya,who was already powerful in her own right. They had a son, ,Alcander. And Alcander married my and Sheas mother Adamina. Then they bothed died through events I am sure you already know of. But not before He could marry E,ber and have Shay. Sahys destiny will be like her mothers,a story I am sure you know by now. That Ember wa sonce duchess of RoseWhip ebfore she became the Lady of Roses, another goddess of sorts, and now Shay is duchess and one day will follow in her mothers path to the beyond. I took hold of my fathers seat as ruler after Jinnalts death. "

"I know that story well,Shea has told it many times." A nod from Salice. "Yes, it was a great battle. Shea went through much, we all did. But Shea has died, three times. Something most elves can not do. Though immortal, we can be killed, but the powers that be what ever they are brought her back, as did Willow. I dont think Shea has ever told anyone what she knows of her destiny.I only know because Cala told me. Sheas been going through some changes, shes lost much, her first love, her second and thrid, I think she would have crossed over long ago if not for Aiden and now Victor and Mina. But even they can not stop what will come to pass. I love my sisters, but I have know their destinys are far greater than mine all my life. Shays sis to become Lady of Roses, and likely Kaleigh will follow in those steps too one day. And Sheas path,will elad her to become like Cala. The new Lady of light and dark. Shea has always been torn in tow, part light part darkness. For a long time she followed the light patyh, but then she met darker people,and started to turn. Then she well.. you know what she did Jade."

"Yes.." A little growl.

"Your anrgy with her, still yes. She was drawn to Darkmere,and I do not say what they did was right..but it brought more of the darknes sout in her. And going to Rhydin all thses years all the things she has come through, Connars almost death, losing Adaron, and so many othe rmen.Victor alone has kept ehr rtaher on the right path, even though hes a rogue. But I am sure everyone has noticed her hair, how its going silver in places and how her eyes are staying silver longer now.No matter where she is.. the chnage is already beginning. and by the time Mina is twenty Shea will be very close to leaving us, and assending to a new plane. I know she wont want to. But theres little choice in destiny. I know that.. and she knows that." Jade looked on shoocked then looked to Mina.. "What about Mina?" Salice shook her head, "no Mina will not follow in those steps, it will likely be a child of Aidens and Milas that will follow. I am sure by now Cala has told him this."

Anala bounced Warner in her arms then rose slowly. No wonder Shea was crabby. She wanted to go sneak off and see her husband so thats what she did. Leaving EttenJade and Salice there with Mina,Angela nd Azura.



"You can not tell Victor Jade, I know he doesnt know yet.. it will be up to Shea.."

Jade nodded, "yeah i can keep a secret." She tickeled Angel then.

Salice snickered as Etten spoke up, she bounced Angel in her lap again then gave her back to Jade. Jade took her on to her knee beside Mina.


"I know Victor is wise, I do not doubt that." Salice smirked to her dark yet some how lighter rouge of a man.

"Yes I noticed his hair."Anala smirked softly, she had left and come back as if to say something else on the subject, or perhaps she couldnt find the mans he sought. "I just figured the man was getting older." Jade and Salice grinned at that. "I dont think Shea has ntoed it, shes been so wrapped up being..well bitchy." Now Salice and Jade both giggled and looked to the castle beyond them Hera must be keeping Shea busy. Other wise the garden would have been filled with wind mageness by now.

Jade brows rose, Etten knew more about Alcar men than she did even for being married to one, and it was likely the same for Anala. Both women knew not to ask questions just to go witht he flow,and anything of great import would eventually find its way to them.

They all listened intently. As Etten told them a touch of history none of them knew. Not even Jade who bounced Angel on one leg and Mina on the other while Azua pulled on Ettens hair and fingers.

V wouldnt be coming through the door, she was already gone from Nosgoth but not coming to GreenStone. No the vampire had other plans. And as for Shea, she wasnt there either,Mina was in good hands so the mage went to go see her consort,look out Novella.

Hera on the other hand was in the kitchen rading the fridge.She wasnt likely to go outside though she could see them all out there,too many wee ones for the fire child.

"I am sure they all can handle themselves.And I am not angry at him for not telling me. Its not like he knows everything about me,and I never did ask. With Darkmere I have found its easier just to let most of the past go, if he has need to tell me then he will." Jade said smiling she knew Dark could handle himself.

Salice just grinned softly.Looking tot he doorway into the castle, "Sheas the worry wort. I think its cuz.."She flashed a look to Jade then then shook her head, " she doesnt want to loose Victor like shes lost so many of the men in her life."Sure that was ture, but it wasnt what she was going to say.


"They were all worried wed go off with them and get killed and who would look after all thhe wee ones then." Anala said as she cooed to Warner. Then she smiled back at Gabe ,looking all sexy and regal. Now the other two women knew why Anala had come back and sat down, she knew Gabe was coming here ,so why leave to find him when he was coming to find her.


Salice snickered at Gabe, he looked mroe regal than ever, even here. He would make a good king,likely sooner than later. " Hey im not looking to go running off." Then again her man was right there. "Neither am I," Anala smirked to Gabe. And Jade snickered, "dont have to worry about me, I trust my husband, and I doubt Hera or V will go after their men, they both have other things to do its Shea that I'd worry about."
Salice nodded to that.

Once back home, Etten turned to Salice. It was rare for him to say anything when it came to the allaince. But recent events had gotten the mane to thinking. "We should honor Lang for what he done. I know Darkmere might do something, but each kingdom should do so together. To show him thanks for the price he nearly paid." Flashing her a light smile.

He had a feeling Salice felt the same way, as did the others. The demon nearly gave his life to protect everyone. A brave and rash move, but the more Etten thought about it.. He kenw any of them would of done the same thing. If given the chance.

Salice greeted Shea and Victor when they came home, Shea went right to see Mina. Aiden and Mina stayed for a short moment then left Shea knew she had much to make right, first things with Victor then her son.Shea knew what she ahd to do, but wasnt sure she could

Salice kept her mouth shut, let Shea handelthings and slipped off to find Etten and tell him her own secret.


Shea drew stength from her element and after laying Mina to sleep went to find Victor. She found him outiside standing in the full moon light his head titled up as if he was asking for help from something or someone.His slowly whiting hair gave off asoft glow.

"Victor." Shea slipped from the steps towards him slwoly, the moon light caught in her hair at the long strands of silver. The moon light reflected in her bright eyes and when he turned Shea noted his eyes were white.He looked so strong,not only phycially, but his mental and emotional state felt so strong, she could nearly feel it pulse about them. "We need to talk." The words she hated to say.She tooka breath, "there are things I need to tell you." There it was, now there was no going back.

Shea didnt moved she didnt speak. He had that all calm tone about him. She wanted him to be mad at her, and he seemed a little pissed off. But also right she should fix things with Aiden and Mila. Then she could try to fix things with him and the rest of their great huge massive family .She knew she shouldnt hide, everyone found out things any way, someone always knew, or spoke up. She nodded to his words and watched him go inside and she headed back to Nosgoth where Mila and Aiden were staying.

Shea melted in with the wind, she didnt want anyone knowing she was here, not Jade or Dark or anyone. Once she got to the door way she let the shadows leave her and knocked.

Aiden answered. "Atara." His tone was flat. "Aiden.. we need to talk is this a bad time?"

"No, come on in Shea."Mila called from behind him and Aiden let her inside.

"Hello Shea." Mila smiled as she breezed in to the room. "Mila." Shea smiled and slowly sat at the kitchen table.

"So talk." Aiden was angry.He didnt even try to hide it.

So She began with the long story of why she was the way she was lately, and what was going on, all of which they already knew. Shea spoke of many things for a long time before at last she asked for Aidens and Milas forgiveness. "I do not wish to shut my family out. I love you my son, and Mila I love you as a daughter.And I will love your children."

"And atar and Mina." Shea nodded, "I love your father and your sister, this change has been very hard on me knowing I will leave you all one day, even though i will still be here I wont be. I am scared to die.Even though it wont be like the death I have faced before."

Aiden nodded and took her hand. "I forgive you atara. " Mila smiled, "I understand your worry Shea.I too forgive you." Shea smiled, "oh thank you."

Aiden nodded, " you need to do something else ,you need to go see Jade. You two need to work things out once and for all. " Shea tooka long breath, "yes I know. I will gos ee Jade right away." She rose and hugged her son and daughter-in-law. "I love you both, and will do better from now on."

They bid her farewell and Shea headed to the castle to confront Jade.

Shea returned home. She sat outside for a long time in the moon light looking up. She wasnt sure she could go inside.

Her son and Mila ahd forgiven her.Jade had forgiven her, or at least they were on an even field of play now.

Would Victor forgive her again?

Salice and Shay understood,they tried not to judge Shea ways of hidding things that might be hurt full. They both knew what a chosen desinty did to someone.

Shea sat thinkin on what Jade had said. "Victor will go with you.." He would? How could he?She knew their marriage bond was very strong. And she had noted the chnages in him, she knew the chnages on her were taxing for him. But could he go with her? She had never heard of sucha thing.

"Its never happened before." The voice was male and it shot Shea up from her seat.

"Adaron." Her eyes flared at him, magic sparke din both her hands. "Easy girl." He grinned at her. Forever her faithfull spirit. "Your supposed to have assended to Arvandor by now ." He chuckled at her. "I am merely a shape,chosen for you.As Cala could not come here. She asked me to come really." He walked,aka floated over. "You need to get off your round little butt and go inside and talk to Victor. He loves you, and yes it seems to be Calas will that he follow you,to be your consort. There has never be a lord of light and dark, but Victor shall do well at it, he has walked in both worlds. Now, get off your butt and go up there."

Then like the wind the spirit was gone. Shea sighed and rose to her feet and walke dinside.She knew where to find him,in the old study. Mina was alseep most of the castle was asleep. Shea idly wondered how Salice had done talking to Etten.

She slid her cloak off on to her bed before continuing up to the old study. "Victor.." She knew he was there,she knew he was standing in the moon light hold the sword Salice had given him. Alcanders sword. She knew he was deep in thought,calm and cool.

How would she start? I made up with Aiden, and Mila. And oh yeah Jade too. Or would she simply cross in to the room and kiss him. Thats what she wanted to do. She wanted him to lift her in his arms and tell her she had nothing to worry or fear. She started in to the room, not knowing exactly what she might do.

She was going to speak, but he beat her too it. She stood very quiet watching him with her fathers sword. Knowing how well Victor would have done as a ruler. He had a good heart and a steady hand. She wasnt feeling sorry for ehrself she was still feeling guilty. But she didnt say anything, she knew he could see it in her eyes, which for the first time in weeks had gone back to their 'norma'l jade tone.

Shea nodded to his choice to give it to ever won their daughters heart. There were years till that, yes. But she nodded softly, she could agree to those terms.

Then suddenly she was up in his arms. Silent still, quietest she had been ina very long time. She returned the soft kiss and then nuzzled her self in to his arms. She adored him, and knew she had been moody lately. But that was beacuse she was scared,scared out of her mind of leaving everyone she loved. Now she felt a little better.

Shea always enjoyed his kisses. She always felt as if the whole world floated away when she wa sin his arms. When it ended she mused a finger over one of his hairs that had gone white. He knew her so well, yes she was scared.Very cared. "I know everyone knows,And your right I don't want to leave them behind, but this is the way things have to be."

She smiled to him, and chuckled to the fact that Mina would fall for some rogue that would drive her crazy, and that would likely be true. "I am not bad." An innocent smile. "If she becomes a rouge it will be because of you. "A wild little grin.

"I know I cant hide anything from anyone, someone always knows somehting, thats what I get for having such an all knowing family. " And she pouted as he set her down then snickered at the swat to her back side.

She crossed her arms at his comment about running off with Darkmere, and then started chasing after him. Giggling.

Salice was already sitting in the nursery watching the children sleep. They always slept so well. She was glad for that, all the mayhem and havoc that ahd filled her childhood didnt fill her own childrens. Least not enough yet to disturb their sleep.

She sat in the big cozy green chair facing the window. Listening to the soft cooing noises as they all slept. She watched as Victor and Shea raced by below through the garden. "Yes, just what you need Seler a moment of play. "And snickering she conjured some ice to the grass below and watched Shea slip and slide as she chased Victor.
Shea chased after him snickering as hey ran by Etten ehading for the garden. "I'll get you yet." Chase chase all in fun letting him be a step or two ahead.


Rising to her feet she turned to see Etten enter. "All sound alseep." A motion to Lona,Dalryn and Mina. The nursey seemed bare compared to a few days ago when Kaleigh,Warner and the twins were all there. Soon they would all have their very own rooms in the spaceious castle.

She walked over to him and pressed her fingers to his cheek. "I was looking for you before. Figured you might be training." It was after all the most common theme amoung the men allt he women knew, training,brooding and going off on half cocked missions of death.

She kissed him softly,one of those soft long kisses. " Everyones all relaxed now. It feels nice."She ruffled her hand through his hair with a grin. She wasnt about to jinx the moment. This was just the kind of moment they all needed.It was also the kind of moment they all rarely got, something always happened to spoil it. Starring in to his eyes she wasnt about to spoil it. She linked her hand with his. "Come on." And then gave a little pull.

Salices brows rose at him. "You and Magus reading up on the hsitory.I know why Magus might do that. As I hear they intend to make him a council member." Of the council of mages. It made eprfect sense to Salice Magus and Novella were quite involved. " And why were you digging in tot he history?" She noted his tone, how he looked more regal. He could pull off any look. But the regal look really did fit him. Though he was not her king, more her consort as she refused to even mention marrige to him.

"I saw that my sister is relaxing," she grinned looking over her shoulder again. Shea slipped and slidded below. "Its about darn time that she relax." Then as she tugged she was swept up in his arms and laughed.

Outside.


Shea shot her look up to the window as she knew Sa;lice was there giggling. As she slipped and slidded and shot a look at Victor. "Oh , I will get you , you slippery cad." She slid across the ice coverd ground still chasing after him.

She cleared the ice at last but he had slid out of view and Shea looked around. " Hidding is not fair." Though she knew right where he was, she could snese him. But she turned her back and looked around some playing. "Oh well seems my husband has dissapeared. "

She giggled as he lifted her up and over his shoulder. "Victor!"Shea squealed. And wiggled around as he began to walk and spank her. And he was heading towards town. He was determined to embarass her.

"You bad bad man you." Shea giggled and wiggled, it gelt nice to realx, not have the weight of the world upon her shoulders.

She smirked to him and then linked her hand with hsi as they took that walk. Shea didnt say anything which was amazing for the chatter box she was she was just content holding his hand walking.

Meanwhile Salice received the notice about a certain fierechild and demon getting married. "About damn time." She grinned, " well it looks like we have to tear everyone away again, off to Nosgoth, someones getting married, and weve got a week to set things up." She kissed Ettens cheek. "We will continue this later." And off the Queen went with a message sent to Shea and Shay to meet her in Nosgoth.

( continues in The following http://rdi.dragonsmark.com/forums/viewforum.php?f=344 )

A new day

"So much has changed." Aiden sat alone it seemed in the woods of BlakThorne,Beyond the walls of GoldenVine, hidden from view. The tower tht once stood there was now gone, nothing but ruins in its wake.Alarics tower. It had been destroyed. Aiden knew it was no accident. So much had happened in sucha little time even by an elfs standards.

Kati Renas home, or what was left of it stood behind him as he sat under an alder tree. The Black Thorne woods were no longer as dangeroyus as they once were, two great foes were dead and all that wa sleft of them were stories and ruins of old bulidings. It seemsd as well that the forest had grown, the trees leaned towards IronWinds now, closer and closer to its small walls every day. The river had grown as well, sweliing from the ocean in the west. Aiden could hear the wind blow, hear the flags of Golden Vine.

"And much will change again." The voice was distant. Aiden had not know why he had been called here. He had woken ealry that morning kissed Mila on the forhead and told her he would be back for dinner. He wished never to leave her side. He could feel his child in her womb now, kicking and turning. His child. He smiled at the idea of becoming a father. To some he was barely a man, but by elven standards he had lived a full centruy. Barely looking twenty five to most human eyes, Aiden was to be a father. So many of his friends these days could say the same. Max was soon expecting his first child with Maewen, Aiden had seen how close she was at Heras wedding. The baby was a boy,and too be named Max as well. And then there was his aunt, Salice. She was expecting again, though she tried to hide it. And soon he assumed Hera and Lang might join the many that had children. It seemed everyones great wish to have a great family.

Their family had grown so much. With Lona,Dalryn,Kaleigh, Joshua,Warner and Mina. Aiden loved his little sister. He also knew that one day shed be just like their mother. They had added new members to the family. Kahn married Audrey and she had Joshua, and together they raised Vanya. Who was almost twelve now. Salice had Lona and Dalryn, and Devron was gone, not a sight or sound from him since the last time he was seen. Salice loved Etten, and how though Etten may not know it yet Salice was going to have his child. Aiden wondered if Salice would just make Etten King, cut out the whoe middle man of consort. It would be easier.

Kulbin and Shay though now in RoseWhip had Kaleigh. Then there was Sira, Kulbins sister who now was going to be high queen of Sim'Tahl, and her king would be Damien. Aiden chuckled at that. They were made for the other,soul mates. Then there was Lady Nirvelli and Gabe Alcar. They had become a part of the family,and Warner was their son. Then there was Dark and Jade king and queen oif Nosgoth and family by marriage and by so much more. Aiden had let go of what happened, though hed never forget it they were family and forgiveness had been given. Then there was Ghallon and Willow, two very old souls that reminded him much of grand parents, though hed dare not say that to either.Then there was Hera, Lang,Rune , Vanessa, Raz and Aldaya. He inculded Magus and Novella to their great family along with Radella and her new dream man Kraven. Then their was thier blood family, Nenime , Cerime, Duchan and Mai in FairWinds with their daughter Fanima.

The Alcars had joined the family not only when Kahn married Audrey but when the kingdoms became allies. That was the biggest change. Now not only did Aiden wear the green stone pendant, a stone of old,a memory of Alcander. But he wore as did every other peson who was family an ally a mithral dragon pendant. Its wings were open and on the wings were four gems , two on each side.The blue-green gem of GreenStone a symbol Dae and a link to the past. of below that A bright blue gem was below it,that gem was specail it swirled to gold. How they had come by it Aiden had never asked. The gem was much like the rules of Nosgoth. More so it was like Darkmeres eyes, sometimes blue but sometimes gold.

On the other side as a emerald the gem sparkled now and again, it was the symbol Sira and Damien had chosen to repesent Sim'Tahl, it was fitting.Sim'Tahl had become green as the gem was. And below that was an amethyst, that sometimes shown a whitesh blue, it was the symbol of Crendia. All were symbols of the alligence that had been made between each great realm. Every kingdom in Edhel Ndor was now allies with those of Crendia,Sim'Tahl and Nosgoth.

Aiden smirked softly as all the gems lit up with their own bright lights. He was linked to them all. Son of two great houses. Carrier of Tel Hyanda enatta Nosse:ArdaSul The blade of two houses, known as Earth Wind. He looked to his sword at his side, Adaron and Shea had given it to him. Long ago,before Adaron had been killed. He looked in to the woods wondering how the world would be different if Adaron Istalindir had lived.

But then again he would not have come this far would he have. He glanced down to the other swords he had, one white one black.Victors once now his. Both ninja swords, something Victor ha said belonged to his son. Aiden was not his son by blood, but blood never mattered. Victor had been there when no other man ahd been not only for him but for his mother as well.

Mina would not have been here. Adamina Walsh. Aiden grinned at that. The figure in the mist became that much clearer.

" So this is it? Goodbye for good?" The man in the mist shrugged. "I should have passed in to the veil long ago, Cala kept me here to help your mother. But she does not need it and soon, Cala will be gone." Aiden nodded, "And atara will take her place,I know. There has never been a lady and lord of light and dark. " Adaron chuckled, " they may be the first, but likely not the last, it does not bother you that your daughter may one day follow in that bloodline?" Aiden looked off and slowly shook his head, "No, for she has not been born yet, my son grows day by day. It may be many years before I have a daughter." Adaron chuckled softly. "At least you have my level head. It seems at last your mother has found the peace she so sought. She is no longer worried about dying, though she should have never been."

"Shes died before, you think shed be used to it." Adaron became more visible leaning to a tree. "It will be time soon." Aiden nodded looking to the sky,it was mid day now. "Arvandor awaits you." Adaron nodded, "I will be in great company, with Alcander and Adamina. Cala soon too will join us all." "Are you going to say goodbye to Atara?" Adaron shook his head, "No, Shea was many things for me, my first real love, the love of my life. The mother of my son.A goddess amoung women, even elven women. And I was many things for her I am sure. It would only pain her to say goodbye to me. We will see each other one day perhaps when she passes in to the veil. But she has Victor now, and they will reign as Lord and Lady of Light and Dark for a long time. It is tme for me to part. the light calls me home to the sand." Aiden nodded softly.

"I came here to give you a few things, besides wisdom, you have with you still my throwing knife, keep it and give it to your son one day. You have with you the symbol of my dead house Istalindir. keep that and tell your children about the great house that once lived in the golden sands. But I want you to have this." He strode forward like mist not even stepping to the ground. "My sword."
He held the sword out, the sheath on it. There in elvish was written : Hyanda en Tel oria Taur'amandil en Tel Malitse. Meiva . "Blade of the eternal druid of the golden sands. Balance."

Adaron nodded. " My father gave it to me when I was but a boy, I had a great destiny before me. I never knew it could be so great. "He clapped Aiden oin the shoulder, " you are my son, of my blood. But you are her son and his son as well. Son of two houses by birth but son of many by fate. I know you will look after her and your sister. All of them. "

Aiden nodded, "I will." The light shone in for a moment bathing them both in day light. "It is time.The light of heaven calls me home to golden sands. Be well always Aiden, know that I look down upon you. : Aiden nodded clapped his father on the shoulder once then the sun shone in brighter and Adaron was gone in the blinding light.

Aiden looked to the sword in his hands then belted it to his side. Then he headed home. He wouldnt tell his mother, he was sure Shea had felt it.Adaron was gone, passed on in to the veil.

When he arrived back at his and Milas cottage she was waiting for him. He embraced her and kissed her softly. Then pressed his hand to her abdomen. "How are you feeling?" Mila smiled to him, " I am fine we are both fine." She did notice his new addition and knew that soon he would tell her everything. It didnt take him long to tell her the story fo what had happened. "Adaron." She smiled softly, "could be a nice name for him." Meaning their son. Aiden smirked softly, "I thought you had settled on a name already ." Mila shugged and smiled. Aiden nodded softly to the idea, "I like it, Adaron GreenStone it fits."

Salice was waiting for Etten. She was pacing trying to think of the best way to tell him her news. Shea ahd told her she was worrying too much about it and just to get it out, Shea of all people telling Salice that. Salice shook her head, some how Shea had found ehr footing int he last few days, an inner peace and an outer calm.

Salice could hear Etten coming down the hall to their room and she sat down and tooka few deep breaths.

Shea was awaiting Victor as well but she lay in bed idly reading, as he was down stairs. Onxe he came in she tossed the book tot he dresser and smiled to him. "Have a good talk with Etten?" Shea knew that Etten likely knew about Salice, who didnt?

Shea smirked at him as she watched him from the bed.Smiling widly. "Yes well, Salice can worry. "How odd that Shea was so relaxed. "But Etten does love her, how odd it is. I wonder will he tell her that he knows already or make her sweat it out?And if he does tell her he knows, whos going to tell her what exactly she is carrying." Oh it seemed thegoddess of the winds had some insight.

Elsewhere

"Etten.." Salice breathed his name then heard him say that he already knew. " You know.." She breathed in deeply and sat down on the edge of the bed. She ran her fingers through her hair, and looked down to her abdomen. Yes she ahd two children Lona and Dalryn, who she loved. And he had loved them too, like they were his own. But this child was his. "How long have you known?" Not like she had hidden it well, she had tried for she was unsure he would want this. To be so tied down to her. So little of him she knew, but she loved him.

"I do not worry about everything Victor." She poked him back but couldnt flick his nose he was too tall for her to do that. "And she is my sister I have a right to worry yes? But Knowing Salice she already knows, or sort of knows. And we GreenStone women do love our rogues, hmm a vampire for one, a demon for the other, and a druid for the thrid.. we are all a very odd group." She tossed a pillow at him then. " You wouldnt dare, besides, if you want an attentive woman gos ee Jade, she's very loyal you know." A lupine quip.

Else where

"I figured you knew. " Salice looked to him then nodded running her hand down her stomach. "I already knew that Etten. Did you think that it would bother me? You know I love you, and I will love this child. You have treated Lona and Dalryn like your own even though they are not. Some times I wish they could be. I know that.. he is gone." She wasnt going to say his name.


" But they are his blood, I am not worried though, they ahve had no bad enfulences upon them. But I am happy about this child. It could be a dragon for all I cared.. demon,elven ,human.It doesnt matter to me. " She placed her hand on his shoulder and smiled softy. "My susters would ahve most people think that I didnt know what you were the moment we met. But I knew then. My life was forever changed then, even though then it was just a fling I think to you. It meant more to me..I tried so hard to get over you, but I could not. I was drawn to you. I can not say that I know if you would want this or not, you have stayed ehre with me, and mine. You have honor that many would not. But you have good friends, and.. there is somehting I must ask you, I have been putting it off. I do not think you will say yes. Only to think it over."

She rose slowly. " Would you stay on here, as my consort. I know that you would not want to be king. But if something should happen to me.The kingdom would be in your hands. Shae and Shayvn would also have their own say. I thought of leaving the kingdom to them, but Shayvn had Rose-Whip and ehr duty as duchess, and Victor and Shea will one day be gone, lord and lady of light and dark. GreenStone is my home, and I have ruled it now for so long. When I gave my fathers ssword to Victor, I knew I was doing the right thing,he embodies that sword, Bael en Tel AriKaael Selaith:Daer Megil .The Guardian of the great silver dragons mountian home:Great Sword. In all truth he has been a great guardian for Shea, and this kingdom since they met. And together they shall guard the kingdom as Cala has done alone for so very long. "

She crossed the room to the wall, it looked sould but anyone with magic would be able tot ell it was not. "I have kept this from my sisters. I think the only ones who know I have it are the counsel. " She pressed ehr fingers to the wall and it frosted over then opened. From it she pulled an elegant sword. Thee handle was wooden, elenagnt and strong, wrapped about it was a thin line of mithral. The guard was curved also wooden it looked so fragile yet would with stand the hardest of blows. The blade it self was cruved like a smitar.On the flat of the balde was a symbol a leaf which was Astalders element. Earth. Long and elegant and also mithral there was another thing about the sowrd there high upon it neart hte botom of the handle below the guard was another guard over the blade itself, made of hard iron, darker than the mithral of the blade. There on that second guard was a thin line of gold shaped like a dragon.


"Tel Megil en Tel Noldo Veronna en Tel Edhel Ndor: MithSeere , The sword of the wise peacekeeper of the Elf Lands: SilverPeace. This was Astalders blade, my grandfathers. He was the very first to find GreenStone. If you choose to stay here with me,It would be yours."


"You would not have to stay though, I do not wish to be the one to tie you down Etten. I love you, as you know. And I will love this child, be it boy or girl.demon,elf,dragon, or anything But if you stay, you will share in what I have to give."

Shea snickered at him as he got hit with the pillow and didnt see it coming. She watched him as he headed for the door. "Say hi for me." She waved at him and curled up in their bed. "More room for me." She knew he was bluffing. "And I am not short, im vertically challanged."

Elsewhere

Salice rubbed her nose and starred at him. "I am not." She let him take the sword, she knew all along he would stay. But she ahdnt wanted to force him to stay. "I know this is your home, and if you boot me in the butt I will bite you some where creative." She flashed hima smile, " what sort of home would it be with out me? And I am not so badm you could have Shea to deal with."

Shea sat back and waved at him. He wasnt bluffing and neither was she. "Yeah yeah I am short. "She waved him off. She did need a step ladder to see eye to eye with almost everyone they knew there were a few women she knew that were close to her hright or shorter but most lived in Rhydin.

Elsewhere

Salice snickered softly. " I'd like to see that."Her sister would look like a little pig all hog tied with a apple in her mouth to shut her up. Salice just smirked at him at the hopeless comment, she wasnt hopeless just well a worry wort. She got that from Shea. Salice saw Victor walk by and smirked. She rose up and leaned to her doorway. "Etten says he can handle your wife." She was so bad. "Where is the over puffed Wind Mage? Sleeping already?"

Salice had a plan in mind.

Salice grinned at Victor as he told them whatw as up and snickered to him going to see Jade . "You have fun with that then. Watch out she bites." She wiggled her fingers at Victor.

She spied down the hallway no Shea coming. Then she grinned at Etten. "Your the one who said you could handle her, and Victor seems to think shes old and lazy. Shea wouldnt like thsoe words one bit. But yes, go get her."She leaned there grinning. "And if you do manage to tie her up give me a call.I will be right here. " Sheas roomw as two doors down. She gave Etten a little kiss on the cheek. Then handed him something it was a red apple.

"That it does, and it will continue to get bigger as the childern start growing up, and get to the age to where they can date. It will be interesting to see who is more over protective of our family." He could make a few guesses on who would be. He'd probably be right on a few of those guesses.


A smirk crossed his lips as she rubbed her stomach, then moved towards her. "I know..We have time to pick a name once we know it it'll be a boy or a girl." Leaning down to kiss her brow, before he changed for bed. Clothes in the hamper before he joined her.

He chuckled to her choices. "I go with Shea and Jade. Those two are going to try to bully and threaten any guy that trys to win the hearts of their daughters. More so in they find a group of rogue men to run around with." Now moving towards her, with his hands clasping behind his back.

His brows rose as he paused to watch her a moment, before shaking his own head. "You are pondering the future of the kingdom. It will be in good hands when we decide to retire. The childern being born will be far more powerfull than we are now." Moving to sit on the bed, one hand moving to brush over her stomach.

Etten chuckled to her hair going grey comment. "You mean like Shea? Who is going to be a grey headed old woman by the time her daughter is a grown woman." Shaking his head lightly.

He then nodded softly, before shifting to lay down with her for the night. A yawn passing his lips, before shifting her closer. "But for now..we sleep." Smirking at her, with a kiss to her brow. Letting her fall asleep first, before he followed her into sleep.

Salice woke to find Novella sitting at the dinning table looking very serious. They spoke for some time over everything that had happened.

"I do not wish an all out war with anyone least of which thsoe whom were at one time my kin. But if it comes tot hat, they will not stop.I had to tell you."

Salice ndoded, " GreenStone is behind you,as will all the kingdon of Edhel Ndor be.I wills end word now to FairWinds,SilverWaters,Amethyst Rose and Golden Vive." Ruby Rain was still rebuilding and Salice didnt count them amoung their curent allies. "I am sure Willow will be behind you,and Darkmere as well."

Novella nodded. "Yes, well. I ahve put everyone in danger,but still Falsgo is my home. If war comes I will be on this side of the line." Salice smiled softly. " And Magus, threated this Alea? I am sure hes painted anice view of himself for her." Novella chuckled. "Alea Raae hates shadow mages, the ones that killed her family are dead,but Magus is here."

Salice grinned. "Magus dispite his ways, is a good man.He saved many of the elementals that day,perhaps they wills ee the light in him, as you do."

Novella nodded and rose. "I need to go to Crendia and Sim'Tahl. " Salice nodded, "I will send the word out.I am sure my sister will seek you out when she hears of the news." Novella grinned, "Sheas been dying for a fight, so silly of her." And off Novella went to seek out Willow.

Salice smiled and settled beside him. " I forgot you didnt know.I assume no one but I and Shay know this about our sister. When Novella first came here, whens he first found EdhelNdor after Falsgo was destroyed, she was followed bya few of her elemental friends they landed near SilverWaters. They walked for some time before the came upon my dear sister. I am sure you of all people have noted there is some odd strain between Novella and Shea.Its not the whole. ' Im better than you and more powerful thing'.Sheas always known Novella had more power, even at her most powerful time Shea couldnt stand to Novella..." Salice looked back toward the doors.

"That day Novella ahd three others with her, they all wanted to kill Sha where she stood. But Novella stayed their hand. But still they fought with Shea. Novella stayed out of it, and the other three left. Shea won. Novella felt alone, but she felt she found a friend in Shea... a perosn who coudl udnerstand even if Shea could never fully understand... then Shea introduced her to Kegan,Damek and Anala and the rest is history. Theres some bad blood there with Shea and the elementals from Falsgo.. I am sure they have not forgotten and neighter has Shea. My sister has much more power now than she did then. She may still not be like Novella but if she beat them then, she can beat them now...any elemental from Falsgo. If it comes to war, they wont know what hit them. We not only have my very powerful sister, but four elementals of our own and oh yes, Magus..."

"I do not think it will come to war."She leaned in to him. "I hadnt intended on fighting. I will take the children here,any who should not fight,Audrey will help me. I will let the fighting be done by others this time, if there is to be fighting." Then she smirked. "My sister is always jealous, she thinks always that she might loose her beloved Victor. I understand why... Shea is wanting to test out her new powers,she can feel them.As can I.. as I am sure Shay can. " She closed her eyes and leaned in to him more. "If it comes to a battle I doubt it will last long, the mages are powerful elementals and they protect their own, they are all family...even if they are all not the same.. Magus will take them all on himself... "She grinned slightly. Then tilted her head at him.

"I recall when you and the shadow mage were much more a like... you in your red and black,very evil looking. Couldnt give a rats ass to hell about most of us, save for Victor.. " She slid her fingers down his back. "Remember the night, that first night.. "She smiled at him. " You would have done anything for me, anything I asked of you..so honorable.. " She looked to the room. " You made me see that side of myself... that night.. that darker side. And I think After that you became a little nicer, a little less dark. "She nuzzled in to his neck. And kissed him there. " You loved me even then, even if you wouldnt say it. Could I ask something of you now..?"

She quriked a silver brow at him. Sure to get his attention.

Etten and Victor would be getting back from their trip, to find the castle empty. Minus the wee ones of course. Getting Etten to smirk. " Guess they got tired of waitting for us to come home..and ran off to find men that stay home." Getting Victor to chuckle with a shake of his head.

"I doubt it.. You and Salice are going to be married.. They are probably off somewhere cackling like hens over it. " Vic mused, as the two went to tend to their childern.

"I am glad you asked me to join you seler. But are you sure you should climb while so round?" Shay teased Salice as they sat outside in the garden the climb to the peek was still a day away. Salice snickered softly looking over to where Lona and Dalryn played with Kaleigh. Kulbin sat in the grass with the trio. "I will be fine, it has been a long time coming. " Shay nodded, "The first time the children will go with us."


Salice nodded. Lona,Dalryn,Mina,Kaleigh,Adaron,Amaleigh, Joshua. they would all be going with them, along with their parents. A king had not been crowned since the days of Jinnlat in this manner. Devron had never gained their "fathers" blessing. It was one huge family affair,Salice was wondering how many would come. It was a big deal. Victor had promsied he could relay the cerimony to those who would not be there. For if the whole family walked the way tot he peek it would take up the full peek.
Most important to Salice were her sisters, their husbands , children and Etten. Etten was the star of this coming moment.

Salice looked out towards the mountains. Long ago Victor ahd been bestowed Alcanders sword Bael en Tel AriKaael Selaith:Daer Megil. The Guardian of the great silver dragons mountian home:Great Sword. It was Alcanders gift tohim in short. A peace fofering, a blessing from the long dead king to Victor. And Salice knew that when Victor and Shea left to become Lady and Lord of Light and Dark that he would carry the sword with him.

Salice had bestowed Etten with Tel Megil en Tel Noldo Veronna en Tel Edhel Ndor: MithSeere. Astalders sword The sword of the wise peacekeeper of the Elf Lands: SilverPeace. He had accepted it and his place beside her. And now the family would go to the peek where Alcanders statue stood and Etten would get his own blessing from the long dead kings.

Shay grinned at her sister now. She had not bestowed her beloved with any sword from her forfathers, but Kulbin had recived the kings blessing long ago. He also had been bestowed specail powers from Ember,Shays mother.

"Do you know if it is a boy or girl yet?" Shay asked as Salice ran ehr hands down her swollen abdomin. "Radella has yet to tell me, though I know she knows." Shay laughed at that. It would be Lonas luck to have two younger brothers. But that would make the men happy another boy for the family of so many women and girls.

Salice looked over to Lona and Dalryn. In her mind they were Etens children, no matter who their father might have been. They could easily pass at his. Lona took on the traits of GreenStone women, her hair was black as coal, her eyes bright blue like Salices own. Her face was round her fetures soft and elven. Dalryn had silver hair,stark as Salices own, but his eyes were green, like Astalders or even Alcanders. One day he would steal maidens hearts. Yes Salice smiled to her self they could pass as Ettens children. She ran her hands down and up again, this child would be different. A rare mix Part Etten ,Part Salice. he or she would be powerful and likely dangerous too.

Shay chuckled seeing that look in Salices eyes.

Salice sat back down beside her youngest sister. "Have ye seen Shea yet this day?"
Shay shook her head. "I have seen her little int he day I have been here, perhpas she has locked ehrself and Vicotr in their room."

"No," though that idea made Salice chuckle. "I have seen Victor out and about. Shea is up to something."

While the others were busy, and Shea thinking she was alone. A lone figure with appear a few paces behind her, two hands curled around a golden staff. Dressed in a white cloak, not saying a word for a few moments.

"He already knows his daughters are finnaly happy, Shea. He has known for a while. Shay has Kublin. You have Victor, and Salice finally has a man that wants to rule beside her. Raise her childern who see Etten as their real father." Ghallon slowly let the staff hover n front of him. Hands pushing the hood back.

While none probably spoke it, he had taken to keeping an eye on the three of them. "Your father would be proud of the three of you. Knowing that all three of you are loved and cared for. Like any father would want for their childern." Now slowly moving up to stand beside her.

"I wish I could of meet him, before his time came. But I know he is smiling down upon all three of you and the choices that have brought you this far." He now placed a hand to her shoulder. " Now go home. Your teddy bear of a mountain of a man is home, and looking for you."

It wasnt like Salice to be nervous. She had nerves of steel in battle and in crisis. But now she was worried looking at herself in the floor lenght mirror. Had the day already come. Shea stood behind her as did Shavyn their men already out side down stairs awaiting them on this hike as it were. Audrey and Kahn had decied to stay home with the little ones. Lona ,Kaleigh,Dalryn and Mina. Vanya would help them.Not that Audrey didnt have her own to care for but Joshua was fast alseep. Aiden and Mila were staying behind as well they had given Salice and Etten their love and blessing.

So on this hike it would be Salice and Etten.Shea and Victor and Shavyn and Kulbin. Salice some how expected more to come, but so many were busy with other things,not that she minded. Salice was never one for liking being the center of attention.

Now as she looked at her self in the long dress she wondered and worried. Not about tripping or falling,for the dress flowed like water around her and wouldnt dare trip her up. Nor did she worry about the walk, it would be good for her and the baby. No she was more worried about how Etten might react . She didnt wear white, for that would just be off. No she wore a long dark blue dress that showed off her long silver hair. The dress was floor lenght and cut to fit her perfectly. She wore flats, not heels like her two daring sisters. Shavyn wore a soft rose toned dress and Shea one of lavender. They were the same style of dress, just cut differently for each sister.

Salice had not seen Etten yet and did not know what he wore. Though it seemed both Shea and Shay knew. Salice nodded to them and they rose and left the room going down stairs to join their husbands. Shea wiked at Victor as she walked past him. Soon they all waited outside the doors for Salice.

They werent walking the full way, they were taking carriages to the pathway. Shea gave Victor a smooch before sending the boys on their way to the path way. It was meant to be a surpise for Etten seeing Salice.

Once the carriage was away Salice came down stirs and the ladies headed off after them. Salice sat looking out the window.

Shay smiled softly. " Breathe Seler' You look lovely." Salice tried to breathe but all she could do was worry a bit. Shea chuckled, " Etten will be there waiting for you, remember we wil pull up Shay and I will walk out first to meet up with Kulbina nd Victor, count to twenty then follow. " That gave them enough time to meet their men and start their walk up. The magic would only happen for Etten and Salice, maybe that would clam her sister, at least Shea hoped.

The ride didnt take long. They passed in to the valley and pulled along side the path leading high up to the peek. Shea got out first and went to join Victor they started their walk arm in arm. Shea smirked while she walked she did love her man all dressed up. Shay got out next then she and Kulbin wlaked up the path behind Victor and Shea.

Salice sat after Sahy left she started to count slowly. Breathing. What if Etten changed his mind? But if she looked out the window shed see him hanging in the shadows.But Salice didnt look out the window she just counted slowly. When she reached twenty and stepped out. Shea looked over her shoulder and smirked. The magic had begun already.

As Salice stepped out the grass under foot sprang to life a gree path way leading her right to where Etten stood. Shea wished she could see Salices face, or better yet Ettens. Salice walked slowly and he offered her his hand. Shea knew hwe sister was awe struck by Etten, being dressed up, and by the magic happening about them as if nature was putting o na show.

As they passed the first bottom trees they went in to flower. Salice walked looking toEtten, knowing that Shea had a hand in all this magic. Up the path they went a steady climb, water lillys blooded at the side of the path, the birds angs as they flew or sat in the now bloom filled trees. The way turned green , and filled with the scents of wild flowers and water lillys.

Up along the path they went ata nice but measured pace. More blooms, more green. Salice relaxed already.

Along the path they went till they all reached the top.Shea and Victor first followed by Shayn and Kulbin then at long last Etten and Salice. The butterflies that filled the air were Salices favorite ones, the smell was of wild flowers. As they walked to rest under what ahd once been the old gaurd post now gazebo it too went in to full bloom. The only wind atop the moutnain was the wind Shea controled to make Salice looked even more lovely.

They stood their hands clasped under the gazebo with Alcanders staute looking on. Shae swore now the staue grinned but it must have beena trick of light. Shay sighed and smiled beside Kulbin.

Salice looked to Etten then to the staute of her long dead father then back again. Light filtered in suddenly all around the pair.

This was the blessing, it came with out words but not with out power Shea could feel it. Salice smiled to Etten. They exchanged simple vows there under the bright pure light then kissed. The light faded and the birds sang.

Shay was crying by the end of it. Shea leaned in to Victor happy for her sister. The couple came out then and Salice placed a hand to her fathers statue. "Thank you Atar."


The words were whispered.

Shea smiled looking off back towards the gazebo she swore for a moment she saw Alcander and Adamina standing there in all their finery looking on with happy faces. But one moment they seemed to be there and the next nothing.

Shay looked that way as well and blinked twice. Shea excahnged a look with ehr sister then nodding that it had been real, some how.

Now it was time to go back down. The whole affair hadnt taken but an hour. Normally Salice and Etten would lead the way down. But Salice looked to her sisters,her gathered family. "Thank you all." Each member got a loving hug. "I'd like to stay for a moment with Etten."

Shay and Shea needed no more than that, Nor did Victor or Kulbin the four started down with no fuss or fight.Salice deserved her moment.

She was swept in to that dance and smiled the whole time. This wasnt like him at all. But Saice enjoyed every second of it. "No, but your exactly the man I want to be married to." That he was, everything she wanted and more.


Salice looked out over the Valley below.Once the dance was done. She looked to Etten whom stood beside her now. He was smiling,not smirking in his usual fashion. The powers had blessed his assention to be a king, her king. The first king of GreenStone in many ages. Salice leaned over to him,she had planned no honeymoon, no escape.Though she wished she had so they could be alone for a while.

When she turned to look at Etten he looked in to her eys and placed his hand upon her abdomin. She then kissed him, deeply, throwing all her usual ways to the wind so to speak

Victor just shook his head softly as he looked down at her for a moment, before leaning off the door frame then slipped by her. " I know I look good in a suit, and I only wore it because it was Salice's wedding. " Over his shoulder to her, as he started to change out of it.

" I just feel sorry for any young man that will try and get our daughter to swoon. You are going to try and keep her locked away from all the rogue young men around here. " Looking over his shoulder as he tossed his button up shirt at her.

" Just to make sure she turns into a proper young lady, instead of a bad girl like her mother. Falling in love with some rogue with the last name of Alcar. " Winking at her just to see how she would react.

" You aren't as innocent as you try to act like you are either, my dear wife. Nearly making out with me the first time you met me! " Called out to her as she retreated fro their room to go pester their son. He would take the chance to change into something more comfortable. That being a pair of pants.

He would then follow her out to give Mina a good night kiss to her brow, as well as bid Mila and Aiden good night. He'd wait for Shea to do the same, before moving back towards their bedroom.

Now days after the wedding. Salice lay in the greater healing room at the great counsel with Radella looking her over. "Your coming along well." She ran her fingers across Salice swollen abdomin. Etten stood silent as stone in the room, next to the great healing stone upon which Salice lay. "Hmm growing faster than most elves, reminds me of Miss Hears baby." Salice nodded, Kane was half elven, half demon. This child would be much the same yet with out the fire element attached to it. Radella ran her fingers over again. "Ahh, a strong heart beat." She said with her eyes closed. Lona and Dalryn were at home being watched by Aiden and Mila. So Salice could easily relax. "Its a boy. " Radella looked to Etten on that, he should be pleased, as the women of Edhel Ndor were know for having girls more often than boys. Radella felt a kick and Salice felt it too. "Hes been doing that for days.."

Radella nodded. "Hmm, your furter along than you w re with Lona or Dalyrn. Id say this child will be born in a weeks time if not sooner."Salice looked worried now. "Is he unhealthy?" Radella shook her head, "Nae. I think it might be beacuse hes part well."She looked to Etten. Salice nodded.

Salice spied Kraven there in the room as well. "So."she whispered. "Any word from Alfreda? "Radella shook her head. "Nae, nothing. The baby should be born by now though. Or should I say babies."Salice blinked. "Yes, "Radella confessed. "Alfreda and Albreda were expecting twins. They should be saftly across the sea by now, in the place Tara bore Alfreda." Salice nodded, "why did they have to leave?" "The power these children will carry will be chaotic for a while, when Albreda was born it is said that Naur had to take him to the blue mountians so he would not burn the forest down. And Alfreda was full of all the elements. Think of what these two children could do." Salice nodded, "They will return.. wont they?" Radella nodded. "Worry not fair queen, they will return in due time, till then you have to deal with me.. the mages counsel should keep other things under wraps till they return." She went back to her examing. Salice smirked , "and what of you and your young man?" She whipsered. Radella looked over her shoulder across the room by the open door where Kraven leaned. "What of us?"

Salice giggled softly. "No children in lady Radella's future?What would the elves do with out a grand advisor?" "You will have the Lady and Lord of Light and Dark...Shea will be more powerful than I then.And with Victor beisde her, they will be the power couple of the realms...much to your sisters delight I am sure.. " Salice didnt beileve that. "Shea may be powerful then, but no one could replace you. Even when Cala lived we needed you.."

"Then I will have to live forever.. to remain advisor and mid wife." Though she was more than that, much more. Salice shook her head. "Nae.. I think not. He is the man of your dreams, aye. Yet now he has his free will and he stayed here...I think he loves you.. I can see you married and bareing his children." Radella looked at Salice shocked and shook her head. "I could be his great great great grandmother at my age..." "He is young, yes, but he isnt mortal.. he wil live a long time just like you.. and age is just a number.. what matter is it to us ywho can live for centries..." She winked. Radella sighed... then continued..

"I would recomend you stay here, but I know you wont. So stay off your feet, " She looked to Etten then . "She must have bed rest, no running around, take the carriage home,and no stress. "Thankfully things had been peacefull and slow. "You must attend to any affairs of the Kingdom, until this child is born. "She looked at Salice. "No arguement, he is your husband and king, he will do just fine, and no arguing with him either.. rest and I'll come to you when its time. " Salice nodded and sat up pulling down her shirt. Radella called for the carrige to meet them right outside the back door. "No being stuborn.." She eyed Salice, "if she starts being stubborn, tie her down..."

Salice stood carefully and walked slowly with Etten to the carriage. Radella watched them go. She then shook her head. She spied Kraven looking at her then. "What?"

Shea knew she couldnt do anything.She couldnt go to Rhydin and try to help. She loved Icer like a sister. But this fight would be the end of Shea if she went. If she went in tot his fight the magic would take her, as soon as it was over and she was die. Or assend to be the Lady of Light and Dark and Victor would be alone.. her daugter her son, ehr grand children would not have her in their lives.

So she sat in her fathers old study. She looke dout the widnow in the direction of Rhydin. She could feel the magic pulling her there, but she woud not go. She hoped that Icer would be found and found alive. And once she was Shea would go and see her,see how she could help. But there would be a fight coming, maybe many before the end. And Shea couldnt be apart of thsoe fights. As much as it pained her.

She had cried in to VVicors shoudler as they sat in their bedroom. He knew too that he couldnt go.He could feel the pull of Rhydin as well as she could. But if he went and died in those battles he would assend and leave her and their chidlren, and grandchildren alone... for Shea woudlnt last long with out him.

So she reamined waiting for word. This fight had to be fought by others. Sadly she could not be amoung them. But she would be the first in line to see Icer if she could be.

Shea would wait for word.She trusted those who were in Rhydin to have the situation udner control or as well as they could have it. She gladly sent off a few things for Icer. The gragon would need to know she was loved once she was found. Then when the battles were over Shea would go and see her. She looked out towards Rhydin from the embattlements. Shea could feelt he tug of the city of the powerful nexus. She could nearly hear people crying out for help in pain. She turned her head away and looked to the castle. She tooka deep breath.

There was good here, soild powerful good. Salice would be going to the cousnel house ina few days to have her baby. A boy her and Etten had yet to choose a name for. Aiden and Mila were there, with her grandchidlren. Victor was down stairs she could snese him now mulling about . Audrey and Kahn ahd gone to Nosght but Shea could sesne them all their massive fmaily.Tied together by amrrige and blood and a allaince. The oendant about her neck glowed softly, from the green-blue ge of greenstone, to the blue gem that swirlled to gold of Nosgoth, to the emerald of Sim'Tahl and the Amethyst of Crendia.

All linked together by a mithral cicrle int he center a maighty dragon its wings out spread. To Shea and those of Edhel Ndor that dragon represented Dae, for those of Nosgoht it was Blacknight. in Sim'Tahl there were many dragons it could be, but Shea had a feeling it was most likely the mother gold dragon Sira was so found of. And in Crendia, the Blue Dragons of the far off cliffs. They were the last of their kind in Crendia,but wsince Willow had taken over they trived.

Kingdoms linked by family,friends, marrige, blood and an alliance. Shea ran her fingers through her hair and looked off in to Edhel Ndor. She could still feel the pull away, but more now she felt the pull of home. She hugged ehr self her arms wrapped about her small frame and then went back down in t the castle to wish Salice and Etten well on their journey.

Etten wasn't bothered at all that he was having to tend to their three childern now. As he had been doing so from the moment he chose to be with Salice.

Back at the castle

Victor would be walking through the castle, with one arm around Adamina, as she wanted to have a little daddy time with him. So being the pampering father that he was, he was once again showing her around the castle. While telling her a little story, about a pretty princess falling in love with a rogueish knight.

Later Shea went in to see her daughter. The mage had been gone most of the day. First with Jade then off to Nosgoth to see Vanessa, then to see Radella. It was nap time now for Mina.Past mid-afternoon. The castle was rather quiet for having a new born in it. As she passed the nursey she smiled.

Etten Micheal Greenstone, was the boys name. Shea peeked in to see the sleeping baby. And in the rocking chair the most unusual sight. Etten sat there sleeping. Shea smiled softly, and covered him with a blanket. When she peeked in on her elder sister she was awake with Lona and Dalryn beside her. Salice was a good mother, though not allowed from bed she still made time for her children.

Shea sighed.Shed been gone all day.. but swore to make it up to Mina tonight and tomorrow. Right now she set off to the embattlements, the "roof" of the castle. She knew shed find Victor there.On her way she peeked in on Amaleigh and Adaron both in their mid day naps as were her son and duaghter-in law.

She pushed the door to the embattlements open and saw his back. Victor stood looking out over the kindgom towards the massive mountians. She paused there looking at him. He had changed some from the man shed met in Rhydin those years ago. Hed become stronger in so many ways. His dark nature dulled some by becoming a father, a mighty hero too. Hed fought with her for her, for her family.. their family now.. a massive ever growing family. Hed been her rock, her confidont, her beloved.A father to her son.. a father to Mina. A warrior and champion of the people... The wind would likely annoucne her presence there behind him.

It blew through her thicker winter white cloak, and up through ehr two toned hair. Another long streak of silver had joined the dark blue. Victor had transformed too, though there was only one streak of white to his black hair, and he had it well hidden.

The change in Shea anyone could see. Her once dark blue hair was now filled with many thick and thin streaks of bright silver. Her eyes once always jade toned at home were now silver. Her powers had grown.. the wind seemed to always be about her form in one way or another.

She recalled when he used to call her luv, when his death manchine he called a motobike scared the living hell out of her. She took a few slow slient steps to stand a his side. Not saying a word just looking out over the kingdom with him. She wnated to say soemhting.. something profound and meaningfull. Shed been gone all day, and he likely knew the reasons why. But She had meant to be there with Mina.. with their ever growing family. She wondered for a moment if hed brush her away if she slid her hand in to his.

She slid her fingers over his palm first then down to intertwine with his. She wore her gloves as the cold still hung on. But spring would come sooner to Edhel Ndor than to Rhydin.. so amny miles away deep in snows still. Snow had let up in Crendia and spring had come to Sim'Tahl. Edhel Ndor and Nosgoth were clsoe behind.

" Quel andune ,my evening star." She spoke softly. Using a name she had not used for some time now.

Nosgoth. Inside of Castle Alcar.

While Jade headed off to meet with Aldaya, Raziel headed inside to meet with his father and twin brother. Bowing his head to them both as the pair were talking about what the two had wanted.

"What do you think those two want to tell us?" Dark asked towards Gabe whom was there with Anala and Warner. As they had spoke earlier about Gabe taking over when Dark stepped down.

Gabe would shrug. "You never know with Raziel, as he is always been rather good at shocking people." He chuckled before looking to his twin brother, just noting he had entered.

Raz smirked as he looked between the two. " Actually, Aldaya and I are getting married. As well as moving to Nosgoth, so we can create our own divison of archers here. That is if it is alright with you, father." Looking between the two.

Father and son shared a look, then back to Raziel. As it was taking a moment for them to see that he was serious. "It's about time you two are getting married. I am happy for you two." Gabe moved over and hugged his twin, who returned the hug.

Dark would follow suit with a hug for his son. "We will talk about the archers, when we go to your wife to be." A smile as Raz nodded and looked to Gabe, who nodded as well.

"Go on you two. I'll let the others here in Nosgoth know." Another hug for his brother, before Gabe slipped out of the room to tell those in Nosgoth.

Father and son would then head to the portal to the Dark Enchanted Woods.

Edhel Ndor : Castle GreenStone: Throne room

Salice looked over at Etten sitting beside her on the throne empty for so many years. It had beena long time since a King and queen sat in this room.More often than not Salice took comapny else where in the castle.The balls were still held in this room, btu the thrones were easily moved with magic for those times, now both made of mithral,gem stones here and there, each one for the allied kingdoms and lands.

Aldaya Lorelle was getting married. To Raziel Alcar. The idea made Salice smirk. So many women won over by the Alcar men. The archers were gathered before the two, save for Aldaya and Raz. Emma Avasa was the last of the original archers. Fourteen others knelt there. Waiting dor the queens vote.

Aldaya and Raz had been first and second comman of the archers and now they would be leaving to live in Nogoth.Though happy for them she hated to see them go. She looked to Emma Avasa once one of the youngest ever to be made an archer, shed gorwn in to her own under Faradome Jannell, under Aldaya she had flourished. "It makes sense to name thee Emma Avasa as leader now. Your the ranking officer left. " Salice had already made her chocie long before the archers came in. " May you lead the archers of GreenStone well, and protect the Woods. " Emma smiled, and bowed. "I thank you my lady and lord." A bow to Etten.

Salice looked over the others. "Time was that I would also choose the second in command. Myself or Nenime. But he is away and Duchan is busy this day. So I will leave that task to Emma. She will pick out her second and third in command. I trust her judgement." Salice signed a paper with a florish and the wind as if knowing came in and took it away. "The message has been sent.. so it is done.."
All fifteen achers bowed and left. Emma last she thanked them both again before leaving.

Salice smiled over at Etten. She was supposed to be on bed rest. Radella had not stated otherwise yet. "You will get very sick of having to carry me around if there are any more affairs of the kingdom." Said to him as he rose and lifted her with ease from her throne.

Radella tapped her foot at the queen. Salice snickered at the elder. "See I can walk,I dont feel weak Radella." Salice walked the pace of her and Ettens bedroom, and back to Radella.

"Yes I see that, your determined,just like a GreenStone ." She shook her head. Salice smield. "This will be a good thing, there have been no parties, no festivals, nor balls in a good time. And some here may be able to go to the festivals in Rhydin, but some of us can not. Shea has vowed go that she first found that place, and fell in love with the people and tradtions. A Masqurade Ball, was the first thign she ever went to there. And she needs this, it might help her.. and us all. The alliances are strong, and I want them to stay that way. I have already sent the word out. The invites are sent."

Radella sat down on the edge of the bed. "And what do you say about this?" Her eyes panned to Etten, who rocked his son in his arms.

" Shes stubborn , but even I can tell shes stronger than she was. I say lets have the bloody ball. " He winked to Salice.

Radella grumbled, "Fine... I'll come keep my eyes on you. "She rose to her feet. Sa;ice snickered and spun around. "It will be good for you too, Kraven could come with you. I know the men hate these things, they have need to dress up a little. And masks are a must, no one is getting around theat, other than that I dont care what anyone wears. As long as they wear something." That was shot back at Etten who chuckled.

Radella snickered lightly and left the room.

Salice smiled and spun back to walk to Etten. "I told you, I always get my way." She looked down to her son and kissed his cheek. The baby was sound asleep,peaceful as could be. " I am hoping this may mend some relationships. Loosen some tensions. "She looked up in to his eyes. He grinned at her. "Your just happy I agreed with you." He gave her rear a little sawt.

" It is going to be hard, when the time comes to leave all of this behind. True it won't be till our daughter is grown up and probably in love with the man of her dreams. But we both know that when the time comes, she'll be able to take care of herself, and have a strong family around her." Softly as Victor knew right where his wife was, and what was going through her mind.


Now coming to stand beside her. " Try not to worry on what the future holds, Shea. We should live for the here and now, while we are still part of this realm. " Now looking down at her with a soft smile. " We can worry about the future when it comes to pass, but for now. We are here in the present. " Said as he placed his hand to her shoulder.

Salice studied the sky. There had been clouds for days, but no rain. Dsrk looming clouds that streched the whole of the realm. And the worse news was the same clouds were in Crendia, and Sim'Tahl.

Shea had said she felt something. Something looming.

Now Salice could feel it too. The guard was on full alert. The riders,rangers and archers did thier rounds. But it was tense. Saice looked up at those clouds. What would come? Most of their long ago rivals were dead. Salice could think of none that she or her sisters had who remained alive. She was sure most of Willow rivals were dead. Sim'Tahl had been peacefull up until two days ago. Whent he clouds rolled in and no rain came.

Salice could feel no water in those dark looming clouds, it was as if they were true clouds. She folded her arms across her chest. Abd felt the wind shift. She knew Shea had come to stand beside her.

"What news from Shavyn?"

" She went to see Ember. "

"And what did the lady of the wood have to say?"

"Ember feels it as well. Anarya.... the woods, the dragons, the very core.. of everything seems to feel this... There are clouds moving in to Nosgoth as we speak."

Salice was about to ask how Shea knew that but didnt want to tread down that road now. "Do the mages know anything? Whats causing this?"

Shea shook her head. " Anala,Kegan,Novella, and Damek know what we do. Magus seemed in a dark mood even for him. Something is going on. But no one knows what. I cant even sense it. What all this could mean."

Mith Woods.

While Radella let her mind wonder over the battle that happened days before, as well as the battles of the past. Kraven would slowly be making his way towards her, already knowing what her mind and heart were really worried about. That he would leave her now that the battle was over.

Slowly he came to a stop behind her, not saying a word just yet as he watched her movements. With the multiple touches to her stomach catching his attention, as well as the tears starting to grow in the corner of her eyes.

After a few moments longer, he moved to sit down beside her. With him placing one hand to rest on her stomach. "You have noting to fear, Radella. I know you are with child as well as knowing that you are in love with me." There goes her need to gather her courage up to tell him. He already knew, and by the tone of his voice. He had known for a long time now.

"I am not going to leave you or our child, because I have loved you since the first moment I seen you all those years ago." Now shifting to sit facing her, with his hands resting on his knees. "My place is here now, with you and our child."

Mith Woods.


Kraven chuckled softly as he looked to her again. "If you want to. I can leave and come back in a few moments. Just so you can tell me and I can act surprised." Teasing her as he flicked the tip of her nose, followed with a pat to her stomach.

His brows then rose to her next comment. "Radella. There is nothing to worry about. We have many people here that are mothers and fathers to help us out if we need the help. I know we never talked about this, but sometimes you just can't plan things like this. Our child is a blessing."

Things seemed quiet at GreenStone Castle. After the weddings were done and Raz and Aldaya, Drake and Cadaria were off on their hneymoons massive family had gone back to their posts and homes. Salice walked in to Lona's room. Her childrenw ere growing up so fast. Lona and Dalryn had their own rooms now and Etten Micheal was groing every day. She had hated to be away from them for even two nights. But she knew they were well taken care of.

The night before when she had come home she ahd looked in on the children and the babysitter. Many of the children ahd stayed at GreenStone Castle while the wedding was going on, and now only Vanya and Salices own brood had remained.

Sh had leaned in their doorways and watched them sleep. And when Etten came beside her she rested her head to his shoulder.

Now in the light of day as she went in to wake Lona for the morning meal Salice felt so much peace. So many thigns had happened in the years that ahd passed. And over the last few motnhs there had been battles and wars and near loss. Yet now there was so much joy.

Salice snickered as Lona dashed to her closet. Her little girl growing up so much every day. Salice could ehar Dalryns laughter and Ettens voice in the room over. Salice had never seen this coming, this life. But now she couldnt imagine her life with out Etten in it.

Salice let Lona dash out of the room dressed and hair done and watched as she and Dalryn raced down the stairs. She snickered as Etten came to her side. She knew Micheal would sleep through breakfast while her other children fought over which type of juice to have.

Salice linked her hand with Ettens. She caught his smirk and that subtle look in his eyes. Perhaps he had been thinking about the same things she had. Salice had barely known him when they met, and there were still things about his past that Salice did not know. But everyone had darkness in the past. She knew thas if she ever wished to know everything that all she had to do was ask. Yet who he had been and what he had done in his past did not color who he was now.

She wondered how much she had settled him? She supposed she could ask Victor about that. They had been thick as theives once upon a time. She knew he had done some things that would have been consitered wicked. He wasnt the sort of man that she had ever seen her self with. Brazen, and dark under it all. But he was a good man,a good father, and her king. He had come in to her life at a very hard time,he had stood up for her and her children. The children who only knew him as their father.

As they walked down the stairs to hoin Lona and Dalryn at the table Salice snickered to watching Mina prance down the hall way with Victor following behind. " Why dont you go settle the juice war dear I need to speak with Victor a moment."

Mina raced past at the mention of juice.

When salice stood alone in the hallway with Victor. Salice wondered just what sort of past those two had shared.Shea knew most of Vcitors life story,but she was sure there was some even the wind mage did not know. "Victor, I was wondering if I may ask you something,while we have a moment."

She heard Lona's and Mina's laughter and the soft sound of Shea's voice in the kitchen. The juice war had lkely been settled and soon food would be cooked and served to the laughing children.

While she could hear Mina wind chime laughter and Dalryns out cry that his juice was the grape one and that Lona like the red colored one more. She heard Ettens voice as handled them all. She heard Shea voice as well .

Salice settled down there away from it all,in that litle alcove of the study. The doors were open but only slightly, enough for Salice to hear beyond.
"You read me well, either that or you've been waiting for this." She settled back in her chair. "You know him better than anyone, better than me. You two share a past, a past I am sure you don't often speck of,not even to my sister perhaps. "

She crossed her legs and looked across to Victor. Eye to eye.

"Yes I wish to know more,I would ask him myself but I have a feeling he wouldn't tell me. I know his past is much darker than my own,and it may be unnerving. But nothing could change how I feel for him. I trust him fully with my life and the lives of my family and children. Dispite his darker parts hes a good man,a good father. And I love him. But I wonder, how much have I tamed him? I need to know, everything, or anything you have will to tell me. I would not ask you to tell me any of his secrets, if he wishes to tell me those then he will. But as queen as ruler I need to know, and as a woman who loves him I need this. "

Salice leaned in the doorway. The room was empty now. The table clear and clean. The fire burned in the lounge heart and in the small fire place to her right. The castle was quiet.

Though hours ago it had been a bustle of family and friends.

It was nice to have everyone there under one roof. One mighty family. So many new lives, so many smiles.

Salice had missed this. This tradition of the gathering around the time of yule. It was a human tradition, she knew that. They had never celebrated such an event as children. Though they had all gathered int he winter to celebrate the harvest and a time of family.

And what else was this yule than that?

Everyone had come. Every last member of their tight knit alliance. Family, friends. New and old.

It was comforting now to lean in the door way her eyes closed and think of it all.

The castle was full of guests. Full of warmth.

She had smiled looking over the long table set with places for everyone, the smaller tables for the children, and grand children. The conversations. The long looks given by lovers. The talk off new life, the cry of new babies.

Peace.

They had fought for it and won it. Yet again.

It seemed like an echo if the past, battles,wars and now feasting and friends.

Yet Salice knew that some of those gathered had returned to a war, a battle in a place she had never been and would never venture,unless gravely needed.

Rhydin was a place of battle,blood and war. And Shea,Jade and Hera had re entered that fight.

She knew Victor was upset but understanding. Darkmere would gladly allow Jade to fight, and give his aid. And she knew Lang would be on the front lines of that fight if need be.

She saw on the faces of Drake and Cadaria that worry. They lived and worked in that city. She ventured that they would be spending more time in Nosgoth than in the lost city.

They both had enough of battles for a while. She could not blame them.

Opening her eyes she looked to the clean empty table, the fire to her right and smiled.

Up stairs children slept soundly,safe in beds and cribs. Their parents slept easy, protected here under years of old stone.

She should be in bed herself curled up beside Etten.

She had learned much in the months that had passed. All of Ettens past lay bare to her by him or what she could drag out of Victor.

He was not the same man. That Victor had said himself. Salice knew that. He had become warmer,than he had been.

She thought of their son, sleeping soundly upstairs. What would the future hold for him, and what for Lona and Dalryn?

One day one of them would ascend to the throne, even if she was still alive. One day she would pass on all this to one of them.

She left the warm dinning room and walked the hall. The floor was stone, and lined with fine rugs. She was barefoot, and even now as winter had set in, it was warm there in the castle. Down the hall she walked to stand in front of the empty throne room. There was no fire there, only the pale moon light that danced in from the far back windows.

The room had changed over the years but it held the same power over her. The thrones. The great paintings and tapestry on the wall. 439 years. She smirked, knowing her birthday was coming. She had ruled for many years now. Jinnalt was dead, buried, and redeemed. The darkness had passed over them many times in those years , before,during and after his rein.

Now after so much she felt as if this destiny was right. She had never put much stock in destiny, not as a girl. She had always thought her father would rule long and strong. That her mother would temper him with her grace and love.

But they had died. They were gone now,like many others that had lingered int he grace of Cala's power. They were gone. Passed on to the light. Their souls would never come back to guide.

Salice placed her hand to her heart. She felt Shea now. Shea had left the castle,and likely no one besides herself and Victor would be the wiser.

Destiny. If Salice was fated to rule then Shea was fated to die. It pained Salice to know that was what awaited her sister, n fact it awaited both her sisters. One day Shea would be the lady of light and dark, and thus in this realm but not of it. And Shay would be The Lady of Roses as Embers time would end.

She would be alone. Strong fates for strong sisters.

Salice had often wondered if her fate would ever be like Anarya's. To rule over the powers of the forest, to understand dragons and all their might. But she knew now that Anarya would likely outlast them all. She had no true heir to her power. Perhaps one day one would come along.

Padding back down the hall way she paused to look in the lounge. It was empty now, but warm still. Hours ago it had been filled with laughter and light.

Loving couples, laughing children.

Salice turned to go to the stairs. She would retire, slip in to bed after looking in on her children.


Upstairs in their own rooms Lona and Dalryn slept peacefully. Etten Micheal slept soundly as well now too with his own room. So small still but almost four. God how the years had passed.

She slid back out in to the hallway and rather than in to the royal suite she walked down the hallway. It was quiet. Everyone slept soundly.

When she walked out the lower landing and on to the lower battlements she was not surprised to see she was not the only one awake. She wondered if she might see Victor awake, but was not surprised to find the dark king standing there looking to the south west.

"You felt her leave as well I take it?" Salice wrapped her robe about her and stepped to the low wall and looked up at Darkmere. He was an imposing fellow, even for one who knew him. So tall, with his brooding golden eyes, and dark hair. He wore no robe to shield out the cold wind.

Salice glanced off to the south west. "The temple lies that way. The one they re build for the Lady of Light and Dark." She knew that was where Shea had gone.

"It once stood there, for many years,real as any other place in this realm. But then Cala was flesh and blood, then hen she moved on, it became like she was, of this world but not. That new temple will gain that power. Like Shea and Victor."

She knew he knew all this already. "You sense it don?t you?" Salice closed her eyes to the wind that whipped in at them both.

"She hides it well. No one else would know. I think Victor must, in some way. I know Shay feels it as I do. But you feel it.. the change. "

The snow that whipped in at them both seemed to part and go around them. That was Salices doing. " The light Shea has always bared, for she was born pure as driven snow, even as a warrior and knight she was pure. Blood did not sullen her. But darkness was never my sisters friend. It haunted and hunted us all for a long time. Until that day Devron killed Cala, then it sought her out and made a deep cut. It was meant to, destiny and all." Her blue-green eyes focused up on him.

"The pain, if she were to scream it would be defining. You feel it because of your tie to shadows and darkness, and your tie to her. I do not pretend not to know the bond you two have. Nor do I doubt that Jade and Victor both well know, even if the past is past. "

Salice looked away from the south. "You can not spare her the pain, only share in it, as silent as the rest of us who know of it. "She saw that look in those brooding golden eyes.

"Do not pretend for a moment that you do not love her, in your fashion. You love your wife, your daughters and sons, your brothers and all of us. In your fashion. But you share something with her, that you do not share with Jade. And she shares something with you, something she does not share with Victor, though he shares her fate, the magic that takes him over is not the same as the magic now taking over her. You know it better. As do I. It runs in my blood. "

Salice closed her eyes as the wind died down. She lowered her voice even more now, near whispering. "It will take her before it takes him. Shea will be very lucky indeed to see her daughter grow up to be a woman. But it will take that long, Mina will be just old enough, before Shea is taken. Her power is potent now, it will become even more so. " Salice looked up at him again and saw his eyes were closed.

"Come inside with me, there is something you must see."