Chapter 2: 16 years later...

  I was settled at the table, surrounded by books and potions; Including the worn leather binding of my chosen tome, its yellowing pages filled with ancient knowledge about different dragon species. Yet, as I delved into its pages, the familiar information offered little more insight into the elusiveness of these creatures than I already knew. The lightning dragon I had encountered as a child still clutched tightly to its secrets.

  Not a day went by when I didn’t think about my encounter with the dragon, the promise I made, or the kindness it showed me in sparing our lives. I had spent the last several years studying human and dragon history trying to understand them; because my gut knew something wasn’t right. Dragons never showed mercy, or kindness. So why did I get spared? Begging or pleading had never stopped one from eating our loved ones, burning crops, wiping out armies…

  Ares gave a defeated sigh and removed his gold rimmed glasses, rubbing his green eyes with the back of his hand. He had been poring over a sizable, time-stained book whose pages were torn and adorned with remnants of past magical experiments.

  “Reading too hard for you?” I teased, turning a page in my book.

  “Funny,” Ares replied with a squint and sarcastic smile. “No. My research into a spell has been a wild goose chase. And this particular book is dreadfully slow.”

  Ares stood and mumbled as he ran a finger over the spines of various books. The ogre eyeballs in a tall jar on a nearby shelf watched and followed his hand.

  “And what is the spell you are looking for, pray tell?”

  Another audible sigh proved his continued search was fruitless. “Well, I caught wind of a spell that can take you to different realms; or even create other dimensions. A spell for a place where you can be anything and everything you want to be. You build the world and everything in it…” Ares placed his glasses on his head, pushing his thick brown hair back and pulling something off the bookcase.

  “In that case, I do that spell every night, Ares,” I chuckled.

  He shook his head, unamused. “It’s not sleep, Jade. It’s a whole world you can create and revisit! Unfortunately, it’s very delicate and the only kind of magic that can handle such detail, is dark magic. The rumor is that only one person has ever been successful.”

  “Sounds interesting. But isn’t your uncle against you using dark magic?” I turned to the next page.

  Ares strolled over to my side and looked over my shoulder. “Yes… But I think I’m able to handle it. He underestimates me, and still sees me as a boy in matters of magic. And I’m not. I've been the top of my class since before I met you.”

  “I think every person who gets sucked into dark magic has said that, Ares,” I shook my head. “Your Uncle is smart; I wouldn’t get into it. Besides, why do you need to create other realms?”

  He scoffed. “Wouldn’t you like a world without your prospects to Thule? A place to hide from your everyday duties? Maybe somewhere you could go to simply paint, read, or pick flowers. You could own a dress shop. Hunt Dragons without consequences.”

  I rolled my eyes at the mention of Thule. A neighboring kingdom, cursed in an eternal winter. The ruler over such lands, was king Archibald. A cold man to match. As the rumor goes, his wife could not bear him a male heir after 5 daughters. So he tragically discarded her to the streets while he tried with other women, and many at that. Unfortunately or maybe fortunately, his wife had been hiding the fact that she was a witch, and cursed him and the women in his kingdom to only bare daughters if he tried with anyone else.

  Since I had met him at 16, all I had ever received was constant letters, poetry, immaculate gowns, chests of jewels, and brilliant crowns. I knew deep down what the gifts meant, so I never wore any of them. I never wrote him back, and sent the treasure to the orphanages in my kingdom of Elsinora.

  The man was older than my own father, a short, round, balding pumpkin with skinny legs, who only ever lusted over me. I loathed when he would visit, the way his eyes would study me in anything I would do or say. I'll never forget the last time Archibald was here, catching me by surprise in the hallway outside my chambers.

  His hot breath on my ear. “Do you enjoy denying me? Or is it simply irresistible to watch me ache for you?”

  I threw up in my mouth.

  I jumped out of my memory and looked up at Ares. “I fear that it's easy to recognize why it’s dark magic related. No one would live their actual lives if it were accessible. If you or Damien got into it, I'd never see either of you again." I forced a soft chuckle, but I knew it was true.

  Ares pulled out a wooden chair, and sat next to me, propping his head up on a hand, his elbow on the tabletop. “So what you’re saying is…You’d miss me?” He winked.

  I rolled my eyes again. “That would be only something you could conjure in your dream realm,” I said with a genuine laugh.

  “All the more reason to keep researching then,” Ares said.

  My eyes shot to his. A smile crept onto his lips, and I couldn’t help but blush against my will.

  The tinkling of a wind chime alerted us that someone was coming through the door. I looked over to find Damien walking in, before shutting the door behind him. His blue eyes immediately finding mine, and he smiled. I admired the dark purple cotton shirt and black pants he wore. Though happy to see me, I could see the tiredness behind his eyes. He looked a little battered after his long day training and traveling along the kingdom’s borders.

  “Hello beautiful,” he said softly striding over to my side.

  “Hello handsome,” Ares said in a high-pitched mocking tone.

  Damien and I chuckled at that as he leaned down to kiss me.

  “How were the knights today? Any trouble at the borders?” I asked kissing him again, which he gratefully pressed into, and followed with a third for good luck. My heart took a deep sigh whenever he was around. Like the feeling you had when hugging a teddy bear or lovey as child.

  “Fine. It was just a slow day,” he replied good naturedly.

  “Okay, my turn,” Ares declared, tapping a finger against his cheek before closing his eyes in anticipation.

  Damien and I exchanged knowing glances before returning our attention to him. I shook my head, indicating my refusal to participate. Damien, with a shrug, leaned in jokingly, almost planting a kiss, until Ares swiftly opened his eyes seconds before impact. With a wave of his hand, a gust of wind propelled Damien away, and a flick of Ares’ finger left him speechless, quite literally. His lips had completely disappeared.

  I gasped, then burst into laughter at Damien’s bewildered expression.

  Ares joined in watching Damien anxiously feel around for his vanished lips. “Ian, are you insane?” Ares spluttered, clearly taken aback.

  I clutched my stomach, stitches forming in my sides from the intensity of my amusement.

  “You asked!” I managed between fits of giggles.

  Damien folded his arms and shot Ares a stern look.

  “This man has stared death in the face, and you think he’s afraid to kiss you?”

  “I didn’t think he would actually do it,” Ares chuckled. Damien’s cold stare was enough to convince Ares to redeem himself. “Okay, alright.” With a flick of his wrist, he returned Damien’s mouth.

  “Was that necessary? The air blast would have sufficed,” Damien said. He made a few tight movements of his lips, his finger running over them to make sure they had returned to their original state.

  Ares chuckled, “I was afraid!” he countered.

  “Chicken,” Damien rolled his eyes.

  “Should I leave?” I teased, beginning to rise from my seat.

  “No!” Ares intervened, magically pulling my seat back into place, and forcing me to plop back into it. “You’re the only person in here that can stop him from beating me to a pulp.”

  “Calm down. I would never kiss you. I just wanted to teach you a lesson, twinkle fingers,” Damien retorted with a smirk.

  “Ease up on the name-calling,” I warned Damien with little mirth.

  “Listen to your girlfriend,” Ares arched both eyebrows, reinforcing that caution. Whenever their banter escalated, it inevitably led to Ares casting spells or more like curses on Damien.

  “Ares,” I hissed.

  Once, Damien had referred to Ares as a witch, and Ares responded by giving him warts and an elongated nose that endured for two weeks. On another occasion, during a muddy wrestling match, Damien managed to put Ares in a headlock, causing him to pass out. Ares, upon waking, retaliated by cursing Damien with fainting spells for a month. I didn’t want a repeat of such incidents.

  “Let’s grab a bite at the tavern,” Damien suggested.

  The Velvet Rabbit Tavern, renowned for its delectable food, was a popular spot in the kingdom for both dancing and dining. Just the mention of it made my mouth water. We frequented the place whenever possible. I suspected the boys tagged along to protect me while I danced, though Damien’s fondness for mutton and potatoes was no secret. Ares, on the other hand, typically sat in silence, immersed in reading or occasionally making lives less convenient by casting spells. Like the time he playfully tied the shoelaces of everyone who attempted to dance with me.

  “Great! I’m starving,” I declared, closing my book with a firm thud. “Could you send Maddie a message?” I turned to Ares for confirmation.

  With a graceful gesture, magic gently lifted our books, and placed them back on the shelves. Simultaneously, he wielded a pen and paper, crafting a message that folded neatly before being whisked on the wings of some invisible wind out a slot in the door.

  “Wait,” Ares caught my attention as I stood to leave. “Can’t have you looking too royal.” He flashed a smile, and moved his hand as if he were sewing a garment.

  My sparkling purple gown morphed into a puffy white-sleeved dress, ending at my mid-calf. A pale pink floral corset adorned my waist, and my tiara transformed into a satin white bow. Even my flats shifted to a more complimentary brown. I twirled, gasping in awe.

  “Wow,” Damien remarked, his eyes taking in the transformation. “For the first time his magic has finally done some good for me.”

  “Stop it,” I shoved Damien’s shoulder gently. “It’s perfect Ares, thank you.”

  Ares bowed with pretense humility and secured his cape at the bowl of his throat. “The swarms of people the first time we went were exhausting to watch. A little disguise won’t hurt.”

  ●??●

  Lively music filled the air—lutes, drums, fiddles, and tambourines blended in jubilant harmony. The venue was expansive, boasting two stories. The first floor housed the dance floor and restaurant, while upstairs offered more seating and tables for games.

  Though not overwhelmingly busy, the excitement in the air held the promise of a fulfilling night. Glasses clinked, laughter echoed, and the atmosphere buzzed with joy. Pretty and plump waitresses deftly maneuvered through the space, tending to orders, pouring ale, and managing tables.

  The room glowed with warm candlelight, and a roaring fire in a large hearth snapped energetically. Men and women reveled in dancing, creating an environment where I felt most at home.

  Damien, Ares, Maddie, and I claimed our usual round wooden table nestled in a corner—our attempt to minimize discomfort if our royal status were recognized.

  Damien attacked his plate with haste as soon as our food arrived. He delved almost viciously into his mashed potatoes, and a roasted turkey leg – which easily claimed more than half the estate on his plate. I always had my turkey sliced alongside mashed potatoes and vegetables.

  Maddie, my trusty handmaiden and friend, made the same culinary choice as me. Meanwhile, Ares opted for the soup of the day served in a crusty bread bowl—perfect for the current cold autumn season.

  Every bite was a delight; the turkey melted in the mouth, the potatoes were a creamy indulgence, and the vegetables seasoned to perfection. The hired chef at the castle couldn’t even do this food justice.

  “Oh, goodness,” Maddie winced, shielding her eyes with her hand. I noted a few men walked in through the entrance of the restaurant, making their way casually to the bar.

  “What? What’s wrong?” I inquired, placing a comforting hand on her arm. She was nearly hiding under the table at this point.

  “My recent ex just walked in,” she grumbled.

  “Isn’t that every man in the kingdom?” Ares chuckled.

  Damien coughed, suppressing a laugh, and I backhanded his arm, throwing a scowl in his direction. His eyes widened in surprise, like he wasn’t at any fault.

  “You just can’t help yourselves, huh?” I chided both of them.

  “It might as well be at this point,” Maddie sighed, thankfully unoffended. Maddie was very pretty, with her strawberry blonde hair and warm brown doe eyes, and often got the attention of men to which she never minded either. I had stopped trying to keep track of who was in her sights, and doting on her a long time ago.

  “I think Ares and I are the only ones you haven’t dated,” Damien quipped, shoveling potatoes into his mouth.

  “Well Damien, not you for good reason. And as for Ares, I know enough about him- I wouldn’t even know where to begin,” Maddie retorted.

  Ares rolled his eyes with a sarcastic smile and took another spoonful of his soup, as if to prove how unbothered he was by her statement. “Whatever I’m doing then, I'm grateful for it,” Ares laughed good naturedly. Damien snickered at that.

  “Enough,” I scolded. “Well, there are thankfully enough people here to help you go unnoticed.” I said to Maddie, doing my best to reassure her, her night wasn’t ruined.

  “I hope so,” Madeline stabbed a green bean with her fork, still shielding her face with the other hand.

  In mere minutes, we polished off our delectable dishes, and I found myself eager to hit the dance floor. “Anyone want to join me?” I inquired, rising from my seat and smoothing out the skirt of my dress.

  “I need a minute,” Damien chuckled, and leaned back while setting a hand on his full stomach.

  “I should probably stay in the shadows,” Maddie groaned, hesitantly looking around.

  “Well, whenever you find the courage - any of you - you know where to find me.” I flashed a playful smile and bounded my way to the dance floor.

  I hopped into the circle of dancers, effortlessly moving through the rhythmic steps and weaving amongst the others as if I had been there from the beginning.

  Dancing to the music was like speaking a first language—effortless and natural. Damien, my usual gallant, but occasionally clumsy, companion tried his best to keep up with the beat, his knightly training not always lending itself to the fluidity of dance. Maddie and I, on the other hand, were a dancing duo, twirling until our legs begged for respite.

  “Excuse me Miss, may I-" In the midst of the lively dance, a man stumbled and crashed onto a nearby table, and Ares stepped in next to me, seamlessly. With a fluid motion, he joined the dance, guiding me through the circle with a hand on my waist. It was an unexpected change from his usual activities here at the tavern. In fact, I don’t think I had ever seen him dance at all.

  “Did you make that poor man fall?” I inquired, looking back at the man getting up and stumbling again. I looked down and caught a glimpse of his shoes. The laces had been tied together. I scowled, wishing Ares would let my waist go so I could help the poor gentlemen.

  “He tripped,” Ares replied, batting his green eyes innocently.

  I forced a wry smile. “Don’t you have something better to do than ruin the fun?

  “Your idea of fun is doing the right thing all the time, and that makes you happy. Creating a little chaos is the highlight of my day,” he chuckled, twirling me around by the hand. “To each his own.”

  “You need new hobbies,” I retorted.

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  “Any suggestions?” Ares asked, his arm returning to my waist as we walked counterclockwise.

  “You should try traveling! See if you can find the end of the earth.” I tossed my dark hair, rippling with gold in the flame light, over my shoulder before casting a sidelong look at him.

  Ares sighed. “Sounds boring. I’d rather bug you instead.”

  “Lucky me,” I grumbled under my breath, dancing with whatever distance I could muster while attempting to complete the dance routine.

  As we faced each other, Ares spoke, his tone surprisingly sincere. “Sorry. I’m trying to be better about it.” Genuine defeat shone in his eyes.

  “Do you try?” I responded, giving him a soft once-over, swallowing a small laugh. Though I would have no problem admitting the tricks and bullying, tolerated as children, wore thin in our older years. I yearned for more concrete evidence that he was genuinely trying to change, but his attempts were short lasting. Especially since he just tripped an innocent man moments ago.

  Ares expression became annoyed, and I felt a twinge of guilt having been trying to keep up with the banter between us.

  “A great girl like you deserves better… a better friend,” he stuttered. “And that’s what I want to be.”

  Our eyes locked, holding a charged silence as the song drew to an end. Ares tore away his gaze, and I found myself wondering at the uncharacteristic stutter of the usually silver-tongued man. What did he mean by ‘great girl like me’? Since when did he offer compliments? And the desire to be a better friend—did it hint at something deeper? Could Ares harbor feelings for me? I hadn’t really taken him seriously till this moment.

  But before I could unravel the mystery, a scream erupted from just outside the tavern. Distressed voices reached our ears, and the music abruptly ceased. Concern etched the faces of the patrons as all eyes turned towards the front door, which swung open with little warning.

  “Dragons! In the lower lands!” The desperate cry echoed through the hall as a male knight stumbled forward, collapsing to his knees in exhaustion.

  Damien rose from his seat in an instant, while Ares and I froze, grappling with the startling news.

  Casting aside my unease, I pushed through the gathering crowd and fell to my knees beside the knight.

  The words spilled out, slurred, but urgent, “The lower farmlands, they—” The man, covered in soot, trembled, his armor scratched and bloodied.

  “What kind?” Damien joined me, his concern evident.

  “Fire breathers,” the man managed to get out before collapsing completely.

  I gasped softly, crouching over him, assessing the situation. The knight’s neck bore a gash, and without hesitation, I began to unbuckle his blood-smeared breastplate. The straps slick, making the task difficult. Damien mirrored my actions on the other side, swiftly working to aid the wounded man.

  “How many?” Damien inquired as the knight struggled to speak.

  “Two, small but quick,” the man replied, coughing between shallow breaths and tears.

  I applied pressure to his neck wound, and Damien began unraveling bandages handed to him from someone in the crowd. “Am I doing this right?” I asked, my fingers maintaining pressure on the knight’s wound.

  “You’re doing great,” Damien whispered. “Looks like his artery was nicked. Keep that pressure for me.” As he started wrapping gauze into a tight wad, the people began to circle closer as I focused on the task at hand.

  “Oh my word,” a worried voice murmured from somewhere behind me.

  “Someone alert the King!” Damien called out. He glanced over at Ares, his mouth in a tight line. “I’ll need to leave soon.”

  “Will you need me to come with you?” Ares inquired.

  “I will take your uncle. Stay and help the wounded as they come in, Ares,” Damien directed. His attention returned to me. “I’m going to place the gauze, but I need you to keep the pressure on it while I secure the wrapping.” Damien remained calm and steady, a trained trait.

  “Okay,” I whispered, tears welling in my eyes as I pressed firmly, watching the knight’s eyes droop.

  “Stay awake, Manson,” Damien urged, gently shaking the now unresponsive knight. Damien set two fingers – now soaked with blood – against the man’s throat, checking for a pulse. “Manson,” Damien said in a commanding voice. There was no response.

  Damien closed his eyes tightly and felt again. After what seemed like an eternity, he shook his head and let his hand fall.

  “No, no…No!” I whispered, tears streaming down my cheeks. “He can’t be...” I sniffled.

  “It’s alright... It’s okay… He bled a lot before he arrived. We couldn’t have saved him,” Damien sighed and pulled back the breastplate to reveal the man’s chainmail, which was drenched in blood.

  I swallowed hard, blinking back tears as I looked down at the knight. His brown curls clung to his head with a mixture of sweat and blood. Gently, I brushed the locks away from his forehead, feeling a pang of sorrow for him and anyone who loved him.

  Ares silently draped his purple cape over Manson’s body, a gesture of respect, while Maddie offered a comforting squeeze to my shoulder.

  “I better meet up with the others,” Damien’s voice broke the solemn silence as he cast a lingering gaze at the covered figure.

  “I’ll come with you,” I offered, standing up.

  “No,” Damien’s response was firm. Our eyes locked in an unspoken impasse.

  “I can help,” I stammered, tears blurring my vision. I had hoped that since my exchange with that dragon from years ago might qualify me to be of assistance in this situation. But I knew that there was little chance anyone would let me. After all, my experience had been one in a million, and would likely never occur again.

  “It’s too dangerous. Stay inside the castle until we send word that the dragons are dealt with,” Damien said, his hand gently cupping my face.

  “Jade, it’s safer for us to stay here and assist with the wounded,” Ares added.

  Damien nodded in agreement, then pulled me into a soft, fleeting kiss.

  I accepted the directive, understanding that I could be of more help here, aiding my mother at the castle.

  “But what if something happens to you? What if—” Panic surged through me, the grim reality of battling those monstrous beasts looming large in my mind.

  “I’ll be fine, I always come back,” Damien said reassuringly, and offered a crooked smile before planting another tender kiss on my lips.

  Before I could find comfort in his affection, he had departed without a proper goodbye, leaving my heart sinking.

  “He’ll return,” Maddie said reassuringly.

  Closing my eyes, I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the tasks ahead. Tears were streaming down my cheeks as I squared my shoulders. “Let’s get this man to the castle,” I suggested, wiping my eyes on my sleeve, while the tolling of the tower bell echoed ominously through the air.

  “Everyone!” I got up on a chair, and all eyes turned to me. “The Dragons shouldn’t venture this far, but for your safety I suggest you pack some belongings and be prepared to leave your homes for the castle walls.” Everyone was deathly silent as the bell continued its haunting melody. “Tell your neighbors, friends, family. Everyone. You will be evacuated, if necessary,” I said with a nod. I set my jaw, trying to seem confident – a leader – but my knees were shaking beneath my skirt.

  ? ???

  Sleep eluded me. The moment Ares, Maddie and I arrived at the castle I rushed to my chambers, where I hastily donned a skirt and blouse for freedom of movement, knowing what was to come. My dark hair was thrown into a braid and a head scarf to keep any stray hairs away.

  The unfortunate feeling of muscle memory dawned on me. I could put these clothes on blindfolded, without a hitch.

  What a sad thought..

  Had I really done this that much?

  This would be the third raid this year. It seemed like something was making the dragons angrier, despite all the efforts my father and the Iron Vow did to take them down.

  Somethings not right. Granted, when had it ever been? This back and forth battle had been going on for centuries before I was born.

  The early hours ushered in a relentless influx of wounded. People were coming in droves on wheelbarrows and cradled in loved one's arms. The sickening stench of burnt flesh etched into my memory, accompanied by the screams of innocents while doctors amputated charred limbs.

  I'll never forget the sight of any of them, especially a woman whose entire left half of her body had been brutally burned. We had been informed that she had been trying to save her children as their home toppled in flames, causing her clothing to catch ablaze.

  A knight had brought her in, as her children followed close behind.

  Holding this woman down while the simple touch of water to her wounds made her writhe in agony, I prayed and cried with her as a doctor administered balms and bandages in hopes to extend her life. But she only lived another hour. I prayed for her children, and cried with them as they watched their mother’s life fade before their round eyes.

  Soon every nook and cranny of the great room, ballroom, and halls teemed with the wounded, creating a chaotic symphony of cries and pleas for help. Amid the panic, the arrival of displaced children, sobbing for parents lost to fire, heightened the distress.

  I was constantly reminded to breathe and keep a clear head as I ran from one place to another.

  Adding to my heartbreak, a knight had come in and handed me an infant a few months old or so. He was unscathed but obviously distressed.

  Once in my arms, I got the idea to wrap the little boy onto my torso with a long sheet of fabric, which helped him finally calm and sleep.

  I balanced the delicate task of mending legs and bandaging heads with offering solace to frightened children in any way possible while I did so.

  Ares and I crossed paths sometimes, while servants labored tirelessly, attending to the wounded alongside the scarce number of surgeons we had.

  Ares, being a mage, wielded his magic to be in ten places at once—sewing people up, enchanting items like water pitchers and bandages to work independently and intelligently. His magical efforts rinsed gashes and burns of dirt and debris, doing the work of ten men.

  Despite his power I could tell we were in the same boat; emotionally and physically exhausted.

  Every dragon raid brought unbearable hardship, it didn’t matter how big or small of a wound the dragons left behind. Witnessing the blood-soaked wounds, hearing the moans and sobs at every turn, proved heart and gut wrenching. The cries - those agonizing cries - threatened to scratch scars across every inch of my mind.

  Despite enduring numerous raids over the years, the torment never became easier to bear.

  As the sun began its ascent, I wiped the sweat from my brow. Over the past three hours, I had been tirelessly escorting children to a makeshift washing station, cleansing them of soot and smoke. They were all now adorned in extra shirts from the knights’ armory.

  Ares’ conjured warm water spout proved invaluable, sparing me the need to boil water repeatedly.

  Thankfully, a calming atmosphere emerged—a promising sign that surviving knights would soon return. My prayers were reserved for Damien’s safety.

  Inhaling deeply, I shifted my attention to the baby securely wrapped against me. Gently freeing him from the fabric, I placed him in a basin of warm water in the kitchen.

  The baby, wide awake, observed his surroundings, seemingly content in the soothing bath.

  The once bustling room for washing had fallen silent and empty—a reassuring indication that things were gradually settling down throughout the castle.

  I fought back tears, reminding myself not to cry. This tiny soul had lost everything—a home, parents, the comforting embrace of a mother. So much destruction just for a little pride.

  I smiled down at the baby, attempting to conceal the tears welling in my eyes. His gaze met mine, filled with fascination and curiosity. “You’re already a troublemaker with those big blue eyes,” I teased, touching his cheek.

  He smiled and cooed, and I couldn’t help but giggle, “Oh yes, lots of trouble,” I remarked while washing the creases under his chin.

  The bath seemed to ease both of us in the silence, reminding me to relax my shoulders after being tense for so long. I hoped he would drift to sleep – which was much needed after such an ordeal.

  “Jade?” Ares’ voice echoed from across the room. Glancing over at him, standing in the doorway, a strange sense of comfort washed over me—an unexpected solace amid the chaos that stirred in me.

  “Yes? I’m just washing the baby; I’ll be in in a minute,” I told him, turning my attention back to the little one, running a warm cloth over his head.

  By the sound of his footsteps, Ares came over to my side. He looked just as worn as I felt, having to use his magic all night. His white shirt collar was undone, his hair a tousled mess, soot and blood covering his arms and clothes.

  “Is something wrong?” I asked.

  “No, just making sure you were okay,” he said. “I got all the children ready to sleep, and your mom said we can take a break.”

  “That sounds nice,” I sighed, pouring water gently over the baby’s tummy to keep him warm. I would be ever so grateful to shut my eyes for a moment, “How are the kids doing,” I asked, a yawn slurring my words.

  “Here, let me help,” Ares said, making sure to push up his sleeves to the elbow. He warmed and washed his hands in the water, then took the baby from me to support him in the basin while I washed between toes and fingers. “The kids? Scared, terrified, tired. I had to cast a few sleep spells – most of them memory loss spells. Seeing your parent burned alive is nothing a child should go through,” Ares said solemnly. I leaned in close to him, partly for comfort and partly for reaching the baby.

  “Why did the dragons have to be so cruel?” I replied. “These sweet souls don’t deserve this.” I sniffed.

  Ares leaned into me a little more, and I rested my head against his shoulder, enjoying the companionship that came with words not having to be shared.

  We sat in silence for a minute or two, observing the baby as he cooed and attempted to control his limbs. He was a sweet, innocent little thing — defenseless and alone. If no one claimed him, he’d be sent to the orphanage in hopes of finding a loving family. My heart swelled with hope and sadness. Despite spending only a few hours with him, I felt a deep connection to this tiny soul.

  My thoughts drifted to the raid, picturing the lower lands engulfed in flames. It was a terrifying image. The animosity between Dragon and human spanned thousands of years—a ceaseless war of retaliation. We took from them; they struck back, and vice versa. The cycle of violence seemed senseless, resulting in the loss of countless lives. None of it was worth any of this.

  My father harbored a deep hatred for dragons, branding them soulless, devilish, and immoral. Last night’s events only solidified his beliefs, I’m sure. I, however, remained conflicted. Since the moment that dragon spared my friends and allowed me to touch it; I couldn’t shake the feeling that it didn’t have to be this way. All this fighting, murdering, plundering – it was all a waste of so many years and lives.

  “I would do anything to make it stop,” I murmured softly.

  Ares turned to me, his emerald eyes meeting mine.

  “There has to be a way to settle this.”

  Ares nodded thoughtfully, his lips forming a fine line. “Well, when you are queen, I’m sure you can make it happen,” he said, with a pleasant and reassuring smile. “But don’t overwhelm yourself right now. You’re tired and exhausted. Let the dust settle before you become a savior, okay?” Ares winked.

  It was heartening to see Ares being so supportive. Thankfully his mischievous and joking demeanor was set aside for the moment. Perhaps it was easy to do because of so much loss, or it was his attempt to show me how he was trying to be better.

  “Any news on the dragons?” I asked, breaking the silence.

  Ares shrugged and gently stroked the baby’s cheek when he began to fuss. “Last I heard from my uncle was that they were putting out fires and looking for survivors. So, I assume the dragons have been taken care of.”

  A glimmer of hope ignited within me at the thought that Damien might be okay. I couldn’t shake the feeling that I should have run after him and kissed him once more before he left. My heart sank with the realization that it might have been the last time I’d seen him.

  “Anything on Damien?” I asked, trying not to let emotion choke my voice.

  Ares shook his head. “He’ll be fine. As one of their healers, I imagine he will be out there for a while.”

  I nodded and began rinsing the baby of any clinging suds. The baby looked up at Ares and smiled.

  “Hey there lil guy,” Ares said cheerily.

  The baby babbled back, moving his arm around, and kicking his legs with excitement.

  “That arm movement is impeccable. Good form! You’ll be a prodigy wizard in no time,” Ares chuckled.

  “It’s that, or he can’t control his limbs,” I grinned and wrung out the cloth I used to bathe him until it was damp.

  “I like my idea better.” Ares looked at the child, his eyes alight with curiosity and wonder.

  I chuckled and shook my head. I closed my eyes for a moment, once again resting my head on Ares’ shoulder, and let out a sigh. It was so nice to relax, even if it was for a moment. The quiet - it was like someone had turned the world off. And all that sounded was the splashes and coos the baby made.

  “Have you thought of a name for him?” Ares asked softly.

  I shook my head. “It feels cruel to name him when his parents already have,” I admitted, setting aside the rags and wrapping an arm around the crook of Ares’ elbow.

  “A nickname then?” Ares whispered; his breath warm against my forehead.

  I considered his question, watching the baby wiggle and look around.

  “Eli,” I said softly, the name forming on my tongue. It just seemed right. I didn’t have to think about it.

  “I like it,” Ares said, a gentle smile playing on his lips.

  I scooped more warm water over Eli’s stomach, legs, and arms, causing his eyes to droop slightly with sleep. “Uh oh,” I whispered, releasing Ares’ arm and reaching for a towel to dry Eli.

  “Looks like you’re due for a nap,” Ares yawned.

  Once I situated the towel across both of my arms, I held them out to take Eli. Ares cradled the baby in a close – if not slightly awkward hold - careful to support his head and back - as he rested him in my arms.

  Once dried, I diapered and swaddled Eli tightly; this time in a muslin blanket to keep him warm and help him fall asleep. Ares conjured a bottle of warm milk in the palm of his hand and offered to carry the baby as we walked to the library, careful to be quiet, so as not to wake those asleep in the halls.

  I sat on a couch and began feeding Eli while rocking side to side.

  Ares sat down, his body melting into the cushions as he rested his head back.

  Eli’s eyes were soon shut, rolling back at the feeling of warmth and a full belly.

  I kept getting a feeling about this baby—that I was meant to take him in. That our meeting was no coincidence. Unfortunate as his circumstances were, I felt like his survival through the dragon raid and fire meant something much more than luck. Maybe my parents would let me take him on as a ward or heir? They would probably argue that I was still too young, unmarried, and inexperienced. But I had always dreamed of being a mother, though it wasn’t happening quite in the sequence it should be. I wanted this sweet baby.

  “You would make a great mother one day,” Ares said, pulling me from my thoughts.

  I chuckled quietly, feeling oddly grateful for the compliment, though also confused that he thought to mention it. It was like he had read my thoughts. “Caring for others is just instinct,” I said, carrying Eli to a red velvet couch and resting him there with a pillow barrier so he wouldn’t roll off. It felt strange not to have him in my arms after caring for him for probably more than six hours straight.

  “It’s a nice look on you, and you’re a natural,” he said.

  “Thank you. I think working at the orphanage has helped some… but I do look forward to being a mother one day,” I smiled.

  “Really? I didn’t know that about you,” he said, using his abilities to light a fire in the fireplace.

  I shrugged. “I think besides being a Queen, becoming a parent is one of the noblest duties I could have. To have the opportunity to teach and cultivate young minds with kindness and love, its a great honor.”

  Ares looked at me with an expression of surprise and awe.

  I blushed under his gaze. “You alright?” I asked, stifling a laugh.

  Ares blinked and shook his head, as if shaking off a trance. “Fine. I’m fine,” he said, clearing his throat.

  “What about you? Do you want kids?” I asked. Ares stood and quickly whipped up a pillow and blanket for me on the matching couch across from the baby. I nearly cried at the sight, realizing just how drained I was, and gratefully fell onto the welcoming cushions.

  He made another set on the floor beside it “I do,” he said softly, approaching me in lazy strides. “Just have to find the right girl first.”

  “I am sure I have some friends I could set you up with,” I said reassuringly.

  Ares looked over at me. “That’s okay, I have my eye on someone,” he replied with a sigh.

  “Oh? Who is she?” I asked, my interest piqued. He had never spoken of anyone special until now.

  Ares looked at his feet for a long moment, then up at me, but didn’t speak.

  “Do I know her? Can I help move things along? Its not Maddie is it?”

  Ares’ eyes went wide, and he put up his hands to slow me down. “No, that won’t be necessary,” he blushed.

  “Sorry, I’m just very excited for you,” I giggled. “You’ve hardly courted...like ever. Never even mentioned having interest in anyone before.” I covered my mouth before it could run further.

  Ares chuckled and scratched his head nervously.

  “Sorry,” I winced. “I’ll stop talking about it,” I could feel my cheeks flare, and I quickly ducked my chin, realizing the extent of my embarrassment. His hand came to mine, and I hesitantly looked up into his eyes.

  “Don’t be sorry,” he whispered, smiling softly.

  My mouth fell open a little... The way he was staring at me... Grass green eyes searching mine, taking their sweet time to study me. His thumb traced my knuckles in slow circles, but his gaze never left my face. My heart beat quickened, and all words escaped me.

  No. I quickly broke the spell and cleared my throat, pulling my hand from his. I only ever saw him as a friend, so why was my heart beating like this? I squeezed my eyes shut, begging for it to stop.

  Breaking the awkward silence, Ares spoke up. “I know with queenly duties, one of those things is producing an heir. But how does Damien feel about kids?” he asked, a forced calm coming about him.

  I rubbed my hand, the one that he had held, and forced myself to look back into his face. I scolded my heart for being so foolish.

  “He’s on the fence. He loves kids and would love to have his own. But I think he feels like his job as a knight would take away from that. Just the danger and stress of it all… His own father wasn’t around much, fighting dragons. Nonetheless, he knows how important it is to me,” I added softly.

  Ares nodded curtly. “We need to get some rest.”

  I pulled the scarf from my hair, untied the apron from around my waist, and slipped off my shoes. I thought about how nice a bath would be, but ultimately tiredness won the battle.

  I pulled up the covers and laid down, feeling the ache deep in my muscles and bones as I settled in.

  Ares took off his purple vest and tossed it aside, then untied his shoes. He groaned as he bent over to pull them off his feet.

  My eyes shuttered closed, tears welling up in them once my body relaxed into the soft couch and pillow; I heard Ares move and shift into his place. More groans escaped him as he got situated.

  I began to cry, the adrenaline withdrawals finally catching up to me.

  Everything I saw this night; all the hurt and pain. All the wounds and iinjuries. The pain of death in loved ones eyes. I felt it flooding me in a wave I was too tired to hold my breath for. I missed Damien. I wished he was holding me. I hoped he was okay. I hoped he would return soon. I should have kissed him. I should have—

  A soft hand took mine.

  I opened my eyes a peek to see Ares, lying on his side, his arm resting on the couch, while his hand held mine. This felt genuine, and comforting. So, I sobbed and gripped it a little tighter.

  He reciprocated the grasp, his thumb caressing my hand as I cried.

  I tolerated Ares on a good day. But sometimes, in moments like this one, I knew he could be a good friend to me. And I knew he would always there for me.

  My soul found some respite in this, knowing he cared for me, even if it only showed genuinely a fraction of the time.