On Astral Tides: From Humble Freelancer To Astral Emperor

“Father, it has been quite-quite a while.” I said as I sat upon the rather nice throne the kobolds had thrown together for me. Honestly, I am such a fool. To think I looked down on the kobolds as nothing more than dirt-grubbing pests, when they can create such artistry. But then, I looked down on almost everyone in the past. A… defence mechanism, I believe Akio called it. Yes, very apt. I was defending my weak and pitiful heart. But no longer. After all, my heart is no longer mine alone…

I met the steely gaze of my father, who was standing in the cavern of the Spring, a complicated expression on his face upon seeing me. I was pleased to see him again, after all, despite their overbearing, often oppressive care of me, they were my family, and I did love them dearly, even if as a child I was surly and rebellious. As a child. What humour. I am a child still, in their eyes. But not in mine. I have matured, grown, found love and friendship, and the world I wish to fight for. No. my hands gripped the wooden armrests of my makeshift throne. I would not be cowed here. I had too much to do. I do not merely wish to fight for the world, I wish to make it mine, for Akio, and Eri, Aiko, their family, Hinata. Motoko. Natsumi. Hyacinth, Even Grulgor. Ixitt, Master Ulfuric. Everyone. Only a world for us will suffice now. And this is an important step.

“Yes. It has indeed.” My father accepted a goblet of decent wine, created by blending fruits from both Hyacinth and Asha, with just a touch of dwarven spirits to give it a kick. It was a current favourite of mine while here in the Boundary, a decent match for the delightful drinks of the mortal world, and I found myself licking my lips. Father was staring at Hyacinth as she handed goblets to our other esteemed guests, including my foolish brother, who was looking at her blankly. Father shook his head, mane of silver hair and fur bristling. “Far too long, my dear daughter. I am pleased to see you well. Though rather surprised too. At this-this.” He spread his arms wide, gesturing to the Spring. “Can you explain this to me, daughter, and also…” he paused, deep azure eyes glittering, and I instinctively shrunk back in my throne, feeling a pressure matching, no, exceeding that of Myrcolaxriath. No, I can not let myself be cowed here. If I am to gain what I want, what Akio needs, from these negotiations, I must project strength. And why not? After all, I am strong now. Stronger than ever!

“… why are you in such a form? My beautiful, beloved daughter does not need-need to ape a mortal! And what… what is this I hear about marriage?” Her father was deadly serious now, waves of brilliant jade energies rippling from him, the edges flickering with prismatic aether-light.

“Come now, Shaetanao, you must calm down.” Another of her noble guests said mildly. He was a tall and slender Fae, looking very similar to a mortal. Indeed, only his long, pointed ears, moss-green hair and the fathomless depths of eternity in his eyes would reveal him to be an elf, and one of the strongest and longest-lived at that. Prince Aethelathrion of the Groves. He has existed since before mortals were even capable of building more than mud huts. It is said that he is a distant relative of the Queen herself, though I do not know how true that is.

“I find her form quite pleasing indeed.” The elf continued, his gaze crawling over me, which made me a little uncomfortable. Still, I kept my back straight and proud, unwilling to show any weakness, as I merely smiled back, meeting his gaze with my own, my eyes glowing. “Beautiful daughters are a treasure. I have many myself, granddaughters and great-granddaughters as well. Sons too, of course. Speaking of marriage…” he turned his attention to my father, that annoyingly superior smile still on his face. “… why not have your Shaeula marry one of my grandchildren? I’ve always felt us of the Royalist faction need stronger ties.”

I could see my brother gripping his own goblet so hard he was spilling the wine, slopping it all over his fur, and for once I agreed with him. For supposedly the wisest among us, you are quite the fool, Prince. I have no interest in anyone but Akio, and I will not yield on this, even should I be forced to fight my way from this place.

My father frowned, not pleased, as he doted on Shaeranna and I more than his sons, and fawned on their wives too. Even so, he was often powerless to have his way.

“After all, if your other daughter marries Duke Vulpatrius, then…”

By the moons? What the… as Akio would say… fucking hell… is going on here? Sister Shaeranna and that worthless excrement of a fire-fox? Father, have you gone senile? “This is the first I have heard of this.” I declared, furious, elemental energy radiating from me as my anger surged. Floating balls of flame danced around me, water surged, and wind blew at the clothes and hair of everyone around me. “Have you slipped into your dotage, father? Should I knock some sense-sense into you? Shaeranna, who only wishes to lead the Way-Wardens one day, who cares nothing for males, only martial pursuits and battle, and that… that creature?”

“Mind your tongue, daughter!” My father declared, but I was not going to let him off so easily. Fury was boiling through my veins like blood. I was no siscon or brocon, no, most of the time, while I loved my family, I found them patronising, overprotective, stifling. But now I understand well how Akio felt when that wretched Kenji fellow tried to make a move on Aiko. After all, we should wish for our family to marry well, should we not? There can be no way my battle-crazed idiot of a sister would fall for that sneaky, treacherous fox that hates us so!

“Mind my tongue? Mind my tongue? I think not-not! I can accept you had no choice but to send me into exile, I brought that upon myself by being a fool, even if my delusions were fuelled by traitors to us. Those very same-same traitors you would hand my sister to? If you have fallen so damn low-low that we must sell-sell my sister to our enemies for political favour, then I am going to abandon the Seelie Court and let it rot, as not-not worth the saving!” I ranted furiously, taking everyone aback. And while I am talking of marriage…

“As for marriage.” I turned to the elven prince, still seething. “I am already in love and engaged, so I shall have-have to decline your generous offer. After all, if I am sent helpless into exile, one can-can hardly blame me for making the best of it and finding my soulmate, can they?”

“Sister, please do not-not anger father…” Shaeraggo began, and I turned my ire on him too.

“As for you, fool of a brother, stop making Selensha sad. Pull yourself together! I do not-not blame you for the treachery of my maids, and even if I did, some-some good has come from it. Akio taught me to take the intention from a deed, even if it does not-not go as planned. I have not-not been away from the Seelie Court long, and I wept when I returned, even to that mansion you gifted me. Why is it now…” I rubbed at my head, feeling a headache coming on. “… I begin to wonder if I was not-not romanticising the Court rather too much. Let me be clear.” I gathered in all the energy that was leaking from me, my will forcing it to comply. “We recaptured the Spring. We slew the Myconids to the last-last pestilent creature, and felled an Unseelie Duke. We cleaned the filth from the Spring, and we are graciously allowing the Seelie Court to take-take it back. So show me and mine some damn respect!”

There was silence in the cavern, before the third Prince of the Seelie, the treekin known simply as Primal Forest, laughed, his chuckle the sound of axes on trees, a simile he would likely find displeasing. “Har. Har. Har.” His laugh was as slow and ponderous as he was, but from the stories Master Ulfuric had told me as a child, I knew treekin were fierce, deadly warriors when roused, and from my brother’s complaints, Primal Forest was also mercenary and greedy as well, the price of the Mushrooms for Ring Gates scandalous. “The little girl has you there.” His words trickled out of the face in his brown and grey, bark-covered body, the tangle of vines and leaves that made up his long hair and beard rustling as numerous small pixies, sprites and Fae bees that made his towering body their home scattered, flying about the cavern curiously.

Is that a beehive growing under his armpit? By the moon, Primal Forest is indeed the strangest of all the surviving Lords of the Fae! “I am pleased-pleased you agree, noble Primal Forest.” It could not hurt to butter him up, after all. “I think you would-would have rejoiced indeed to see the Myconids perish, as did the forests here so long ago. It was a tragedy, yet justice has caught them, though long-long overdue.” I have no intention of mentioning Asha and the Rhyming Tree we have taken. Primal Forest and the treekin believe all the Rhyming Trees are technically their property, that they are the true caretakers of the forests of the Fae. The Dryads disagree, but that matters little to me, here and now. “I hope-hope your fallen kin can rest easy now, wherever their souls dwell.”

“Such wise words. Who knew the tales about you were so foolishly overblown. I see the arrogance, yes, but not unearned.” Primal Forest said, with agonising lack of speed.

“No, I fear the rumours were likely all-all true. I was a spoiled fool, there can be no-no question of that. But exile and the love of my Akio, the full moon to my new moon, it has-has helped me to grow, to see what matters.” At the Fae declaration of love, my brother looked down, but said nothing, knowing already how deep and profound the love and bonds between Akio and I were. Father however was not so composed, and he let out a low growl. Even so, in front of the other rulers of the Fae who were his natural allies, he could ill-afford to make a bad impression.

“I see. Regretful.” Prince Aethelathrion sighed. “I would have welcomed a closer union between us. But I am not one to come between lovers, I am hardly so crass. My grandsons and great-grandsons will have to lament the fact both daughters of Shaetanao have escaped them.”

Closer union? I see. Eri will likely be angry, but… I know it is for the best, and not just my selfishness, my fears. I do sometimes fear all this will not last, that Akio’s love for us will cool. As he grows more powerful, concerns such as love… they will likely be a burden for him. Even now he has so many demands on his time. It therefore seems foolish to push more females upon him, but who can truly be trusted but lovers, bonded souls? Akio needs many, to soothe his cares, and to guard his interests. After all, I would kill for him, die for him. Eri is the same. Aiko too. Hinata and the others are not at that depth of love yet, but it is merely a matter of time. Akio is charming, more so every day, and when he smiles, pouring out his love, nothing feels more sublime.

“Well, you have granddaughters, do you not-not?” Shaeula grinned. “You must have some fine, unmarried females, who are both-both beautiful and wise, and willing to give their all for the one-one they marry? My Akio deserves only the finest females to support him, but if you wish-wish for a closer union with us, those who have reclaimed the Spring, there is not-not a better way than that, is there? Support our reasonable demands, and we will need-need caretakers for the Spring. We have grand plans indeed. Now-now is the time to gain my good graces, my chosen husbands’ as well.”

“You have become quite the politician.” Prince Aethelathrion mused. “But I don’t think you are mistaken. Granddaughters, hmm? I have several within the Way-Wardens who remain stubbornly unmarried, as well as… hmm, a caretaker for the Spring, a politician… yes, maybe she would suffice.”

It seems I have hooked in the elf successfully, and father may rage, but he has no reason nor incentive to deny me. As for Primal Forest…

“You would encourage this full moon of yours to take other wives? Has he no-no faithfulness?” My father snarled, and I rolled my amber eyes at his hypocrisy. Still, I have one ace left to play. This should silence him.

“I think you should be the last-last to tell me that, father.” I scoffed. “After all, you have many-many wives, and you cherish them all, do you not-not? I wonder how mother is doing now? I do so wish-wish her to be proud of me too, as after all…” I shimmered back into my weaselkin form, which now resembled a Kamaitachi, elegant jade blades at my wrists and ankles. I love the way Akio said they were beautiful. “… I have reclaimed my bloodline, and am a half-breed no more-more. No, I am simply pure-blooded on both sides.” What was it Akio said again? Oh yes, surely two royal bloodlines are superior to one!

“Sister, that form… so stunningly beautiful!” Shaeraggo gasped out, eyes going wide.

“I do not-not need to hear that from you!” I sniffed, a touch put out by his creepy compliment. “Save the flattery for-for your wives!”

The elf also complimented me, Primal Forest was still considering something ponderously, and father… he had frozen, mouth agape. His eyes were damp, and I suddenly felt a little guilty. Ugh, is this how Akio felt when he faced his own father? I do not wish to hurt him, I know he misses my mother so. That is why I need him to understand, letting politics rip apart loved ones is no longer acceptable! The Seelie Court needs to change!

“Daughter, that appearance…” he managed at last. “It reminds me so much-much of your mother. She was beautiful too, her hair as golden as the mortal sun, her eyes silver as the moon. When I saw her, I knew I had to win her heart. You are all-all I have left of her now.”

I let out a bitter snort at that. “Such weak nonsense. I can not-not believe my father would say that in front of me, after sending me away as well! You nearly never-never saw me again! If Akio was not-not soft-hearted and kind, I would have died in the land of my mother, and you would never even have known what-what befell me!”

“Yes, but I had little…” he began, but I needed to say what was in my heart, else we could never truly reconcile.

“Little choice, you say? Maybe-maybe so. But that is just your weakness talking, father. Akio had little choice but to kill me, I who tried to kill him first, yet he did not-not bow to necessity. We had little choice facing Grulgor, and now-now he has agreed to fight Duke Formor with us, should the need arise!”

At that proclamation the elf gasped in shock, and even my brother, who knew Grulgor was with us, looked poleaxed by the revelation. Still, I was far from done. “Necessity should have led to our defeat many-many times, we should have sacrificed, made choices where we lost things precious to us-us. But Akio hates sacrifice, as do I! It matters not-not what trials stand before us, we will face them together, live together or die together! But one thing we will not-not do is sacrifice our happiness on the altar of necessity! If there are two choices, and neither of them suit us, we will simply go a third-third way, no matter how thorny or dark the path!”

Yes, that’s right. That is why I can not stop trying to gather those for Akio to love, for me to love. I want more people walking with us on this path, keeping us on track, so we never get lost, losing sight of what truly matters. Sacrifice is just defeat. It does not suit us! “Father, mother still lives, of this I am most-most certain. Perhaps she has moved on, perhaps she now-now loves another. But even so, can you truly say you love her if you do not-not try everything to reclaim her, no matter how difficult, shameful or dangerous it may-may be? I shall surely see my mother again, perhaps I can even be motivated to put in a good-good word for you, my pitiful father!” I smiled then, feeling a weight lift from my heart as I could finally say everything I wished. “We will do the same, Akio and I, and all those we love and who love us. Akio’s heart wept tears of blood at the cruelty we inflicted on the Myconids, vile beasts though they are. But he did not-not wish me to give up on my dream to return to the Seelie Court in glory, to no-no longer be looked at as inferior, so he hardened his heart and would commit any atrocity if it would bring me joy! No, not-not just I, any of those he loves! So no more defeatism, father. You are Prince Shaetanao, Noble Fae and lord of the Beastkin, father to such a proud daughter as I! Reclaim your dignity, and support me to grasp what I have earned!”

With that I bowed my head, finished. That felt amazing. To finally be honest with my father. To tell him I am disappointed in him but still love him. Now I hope he understands.

“Your daughter is right.” Primal Forest declared suddenly, his slow calculations concluded. “We have grown weak, decadent and too foolish, since the King was injured and went into seclusion. Even the Queen does little to guide us. We have squabbled and let the many enemies within and without despoil our forests and glades, destroy our unity. No more.” His hoary face took in the restored beauty of the Spring, and he exhaled a long sigh, smelling of moss, sweep sap and fresh grass. “The dead lands around the Spring will need long years of labour to restore, yet it must be done. I ask you, Duchess Shaeula Tu Shae Dannan of the Spring of Clear Reflections, you seek caretakers. Will you allow us treekin and plantkin to return, to restore it to its former glory?”

A thrill went through me. Though Duchess was technically less of a title than princess, it was one I had earned, together with Akio, Hyacinth, Grulgor, Ixitt and all those who supported us. I would always be a princess, but Duchess… for now there was no sweeter title. So, Primal Forest accepts my proposal. “No, I am afraid not-not.” I declared, folding my arms under my chest, looking as imperious as I could. As once more, my brother and the three Princes were silenced in shock, I continued, eyes gleaming with ambition.

“If all I wanted was former glory then yes-yes, I would accept. But former glories are just that. The past. I want a strong, shining future, that makes the past seem as but grey, lifeless illusions. If you wish to create the Spring anew, make it better than you ever-ever dreamed of, then I gladly welcome your assistance, Lord Primal Forest!” And with that I held out a hand to him.

“I see. I was foolish. The past is gone. The future beckons.” With that he reached out a massive, weathered hand, and I took it, sealing our Oaths. “I shall support you, and we will make this the greatest wonder in the lands of the Fae.”

“Well now, if I had known your youngest was such a firecracker, Shaetanao, my old friend, I would have snapped her up before you sent her away. My poor grandsons, they missed out.” The elven Prince smiled softly. “I too would like to see the future you speak of. I will support you, I hope in return for that closer union we spoke of. My great-granddaughter… will you aid her, look after her?”

“If she is worthy, I would be more-more than happy to! I welcome new friends.” I reached out and my other hand grasped his. “Akio is a worthy male indeed, any female who is good-hearted will surely find much joy with him. And while he is mortal, true, it is barely worth the mention, as his body and spirit has become infinitely close-close to that of a Fae. I have little worry about outliving him, for he is another like the Scotsman, I do-do believe.”

Releasing their hands, a deal struck, I turned to my father, who was still shaken by my earlier confident words regarding my mother. His eyes met mine, and a fleeting smile crossed his features, one I found difficult to interpret. Is that resignation, or happiness?

“My daughter. I admit to finding this change in you hard-hard to understand. But seeing you stand so resolute before me, it is not-not such a bad thing.” As Primal Forest and Prince Aethelathrion retreated, making room for him, he stepped forwards, until he was standing right before my throne. Behind me, Hyacinth and Velna were looking nervous, and it was little wonder, for my father was radiating his majesty like a thick shroud, brimming with power. Even I swallowed nervously, though once more I held my ground. I shall not fail here. We have worked too hard to simply relinquish all we have gained.

“My little Shaeula, daughter who resembles the lover I lost-lost. I wanted to keep you safe and treasure you forever, but I was too weak. No, I realise now that is but-but an excuse. Perhaps I could have fought herder, denied our enemies.” He shook his head mournfully. “On seeing this…” he gestured expansively to the Spring, the glittering beams of moonlight cascading down around us. “… I feel shamed to tell you I tried my best. Perhaps I am too tired of struggle to hold on during these times.”

“Nonsense, old friend.” The elf shook his head, denying that. “We are all suffering. We were not made for politics, to contain the bitter infighting that wracks the Seelie Court. But you have done your best.”

“If you wish-wish to step down, I have no issue taking your place.” I grinned cheekily, only half-joking. I do not like the look on his face. Tired, worn out. My father is always bold, his booming laughter always enfolding me comfortingly when I was but a small child. No, this will not do either. Not at all. We abhor sacrifices, Akio and I. So my family must be happy as well. “I have grand-grand plans, and with Akio and allies like my dear-dear brother to support me…” I looked at brother Shaeraggo, who nodded, looking proud, somewhat missing the point, I felt. “… well, I would not-not let fools like that worthless wretch of a fire-fox waste our time bickering. Let our true enemies perish, not-not our unity. Change is coming, and a divided Seelie Court will fall, of that-that I am certain.”

“Would that I could step aside.” Father shrugged. “But I would never wish you, or indeed any of my children, to wade into the vile-vile quagmire that is the politics of the Court. If only the Queen would lead us while the King recovers, but… there is little-little point in wishing for what we do not have. As for my support, of course you shall have it. With the three of us, and support from the Way-Wardens, who even-even now are laying Fae Stones to mark the boundary of this reclaimed land, I believe that the other four branches of true Seelie nobility that remain will accept this. Though the Isolationists and Aggressors will likely cause much trouble.”

“I do not-not see why. The Aggressors, they wish to wipe out the Unseelie. Unseelie have perished. Some of the Wild Hunt too. We did slay a barghest not-not too long ago, and provided valuable information to the Way-Wardens.”

“Yes, I did hear about that. Though apparently the Way-Captain in charge of that response believed that you were merely a guest of your brother.” The elf mused, nodding.

“Besides, I care not-not about such petty things as the past. The future is what concerns me. Grulgor was integral to the defeat of Duke Myrcolaxriath, and so I am prepared to offer some suitable praise and rewards to the Aggressors, in exchange for their backing. Grulgor may be a fool, but I believe that he can-can convince Duke Formor to abandon his vendetta against us. If so, that would relieve much of the pressure on you, would it not-not, father?” The thought of forgiving Duke Formor, who clearly has attempted to do me harm, it does not sit well with me, but just as Akio forgave me, and Grulgor, and Haru, others too, if he accepts my offered hand, I will put aside my anger. If not though, if he foolishly tries again to harm me and mine, well, if Duke Myrcolaxriath can be slain…

“That giant does hate Unseelie more than most of us.” Primal Forest thundered out. “The Duchess has a good head on her shoulders.” Duchess. Again how sweet that sounds.

“I am glad you approve, noble Primal Forest. Yes, I do not-not claim we can suddenly start pushing back the Unseelie wholesale, but such a victory here will surely-surely give the Aggressor faction a significant boost. I do not-not think it is unreasonable to claim a fee for that. And if we bring them closer to our camp, well, all the better. The Isolationists, how they react I can not-not predict. They should rejoice that we have reversed this defeat, but I do not-not know enough about them to be certain.”

“I am shocked, my dear daughter. This was not-not the reunion I was expecting. But I am moved at your growth.” He reached out, and I suddenly found myself enfolded in a hug, his strong arms  around me. It is warm. Just as I remember. I found tears in my eyes, as I finally felt I had returned to the Seelie Court, just as the Oath I had made to Akio those many moons ago declared. “We have much to discuss, such as your new elements, and this husband of yours. I shall need-need to meet him, and he shall have to prove worthy…”

At that my gaze went to Shaeraggo, who was looking shamed, no doubt remembering when Akio soundly thrashed him.  “Father, do not-not worry. If Akio is not worthy of me, there is none who are.” My father released his hug, looking satisfied, relaxed, and I grinned. “His hugs are better as well. Do not-not mistake me, it was comforting and familiar, but… it does not-not make my heart  race, my lunar chakra burn, like his does.”

“I fear your daughter is all grown up.” The elf laughed uproariously. “It is something we all have to bear. Many of my daughters treated me as an afterthought when they were married.”

My father sighed, shaking his head as if to clear his annoyance. Even so, his eyes were soft, kind, and I had missed them. Even when I was causing trouble, declaring my superiority, father had always looked at me that way. Though I would like it far more if he was not remembering mother when he looked at me. I am my own female!

“Fine. I shall listen to you, my daughter, but I still must-must approve of him.” His hands flexed, as if he was about to crush Akio. That put a pout on my face, but his next words wiped it off. “But tell me about the maids attending you. One is a vile traitor, is she not-not, and the other… if I am not mistaken…”

Velna flinched under his venomous glare, and even Hyacinth was somewhat cowed. Still, they are my maids, father. Do not trouble them so. “Hardly a traitor, father. Velna risked herself to tell Akio that the other-other maids were acting suspiciously, and it led us to victory against our attackers. She has-has made mistakes yes, but now aims to make amends. You have made mistakes too, father. This marriage for Shaeranna, for one. So until you have fixed all-all your many errors, I will not-not hear such slanders.” I paused then, too afraid to ask. The two soul-lights that floated near invisibly around me, belonging to the maids that died, trembled weakly, transmitting fear to me. I had not expected to capture them, since they no doubt did not think of me as kin any longer, and perhaps never had, but my beliefs and strength now were seemingly strong enough to draw them to me, though they fiercely resisted rebirth, taking in only the merest trickles of my aether. They have not been joined by the other two, that were taken to father. Are they not dead, or… I did not even wish to finish that thought, so I changed the subject.

“Oh, brother Shaeraggo, I do have to thank you for sending us Hyacinth here.” I gestured to her. “I thought you quite-quite mad at first, sending us such a dangerous Price, but you showed wisdom. She was essential in our victory here, and Akio is quite-quite taken with her.” Wait, why does my stupid brother look so confused?

“I have no-no idea what you are talking about, sister. I have never seen her before.”

“But she was delivered as part of the treasure-wagon you brought…” I trailed off, equally confused now. It was then Hyacinth spoke up diffidently, her tone hesitant.

“Hyacinth did nooot wish to say, but I… I nooow remember more of my past, my mind is clearer since I grew strooonger.” She frowned, thinking. “I dooo not know this weaselkin.” She muttered. “Before I was let out of the booox, I remember fighting some giants and trooolls. They would nooot die, no matter hooow I choked them! They hit me and beat me, forced me intooo the box. It was dark and cooold, for many, many years. Until I saw the light again, and met master and yooou!” Hyacinth smiled then, and it was captivating, the usual madness within still present, yes, but her gaze was clearer, as if she was starting to come to terms with it. Giants and trolls, I see. That is interesting, though it reflects poorly on you, brother.

Before I could voice my thoughts, father and the others took up a defensive position, and I could feel elemental energies gathering.

“An Unseelie! Here!” Primal Forest rumbled, and his movements were no longer slow and ponderous, but measured, with dreadful purpose. Beside him my father was summoning wind, and the elven Prince was grasping for his bow. Only my brother was standing still, dumbfounded. At least he is not foolish enough to make a hasty move. I have shown my care for Hyacinth enough for them to know…

“Be silent, you foolish-foolish ones!” I declared, releasing a surge of wind outwards, followed by a wall of flame that drove them back, and a downpour of shimmering water. “Did I not-not say Hyacinth is a precious maid and friend to Akio and I? Unseelie, Seelie, mortal, Yokai. Such distinctions mean nothing.” I meant that now, of course, yet I could not suppress a brief flash of guilt, remembering how I had distrusted Hyacinth for her boggart nature at first. Again it had been Akio who had reached out a hand to her, and won her over with kindness, compassion and understanding. And it has led to this victory. I found myself grinning once again. “If you raise a hand against her, I shall fight to the death for her, even against you, father, noble Primal Forest, Prince Aethelathrion.”

Father had nullified my winds with one of his own, and Primal Forest had effortlessly drank in the watery storm. I let the wall of flame die down, and gestured to my maids. “More drinks for our foolish guests. They need to cool their heads a little-little.”

As Hyacinth nodded, calmly handing out more of the fruity spirits, Velna nervously doing the same, I sighed. “Really. How disappointing. Do you really-really think that I would be standing here with an enemy, after having slain so many Myconids? Just as Hyacinth was once a brownie, and was corrupted, can she not-not become pure once more? I believe she can. So do not-not test me. Besides, you are missing the issue at hand here.” I said proudly. “My foolish brother somehow managed to allow a dangerous Fae to be sent to me, an obvious attempt at mischief and murder. I would-would be most aggrieved, except Hyacinth was a gift indeed. Still, giants and trolls. Does this not-not give us another obvious lever to pry at Duke Formor and his faction with? I dare say we must express proper gratitude for his aid.” My smile was malicious, and father and brother looked at me a little put out, but the elf merely chuckled, defeated.

“She has us there. To think we could have been so foolish, perhaps a fresh perspective is needed.”

“I agree.” Primal Forest slowed once more, returning to his ponderous state. “It does not sit well with me, allowing a boggart in this sacred Spring, but… if the Duchess allows, who am I to question her?”

“Father?” I asked pointedly, and he nodded. “Fine. Though I shall-shall be keeping a close eye on you!” He warned Hyacinth. “Should my daughter come to harm-harm under your care, I shall hunt you down, even to Pandemonium itself!”

“I shall never hurt the mistress, never! I am nooot a bad girl, Hyacinth is a gooooood servant!” She promised, and father nodded, still wary, before turning his gaze on my brother, who was trying to make himself unnoticed.

“And as for you, my son.” Father declared, annoyed. “Keeping secrets from me, I can-can allow this, for Trials of Three are sacred and Prices must be paid. But to put your sister in danger with your carelessness… well that-that is another matter entirely!”

My foolish brother’s protests and apologies rang out, and I smiled, feeling the warmth of family again, and relief I had passed the hardest hurdle in the path of our goals. Our wedding, it will be lively indeed. I wonder how my father will get on with Akio’s father? And how will Emily deal with all my father’s many wives? I will need to find my mother too, so she can attend. A female will not wish to be married without her mother in attendance, after all…

********

“Ula, my Ula, how I have missed you, missed you!” I tried to dodge my sister, who came flying at me rapidly, tears in her emerald eyes. Even so, she was faster, and I found myself swept up by her muscular arms, into a tight hug. “That idiot Raggy, he would not tell me anything about your circumstances, only that you were safe, were well!” She pouted, drawing quite a bit of laughter from the watching Way-Wardens, which included several familiar faces to me. I squirmed in her overbearing grasp, remembering the bone-crushing hugs and petting she used to give me, only to stop my struggles as I noticed her strength no longer overpowered me.

My sister had noticed as well, peering at me curiously. “You almost dodged, Ula! A slow little female like you, like you! And you are not crying at my hug! No, sorry, you are still crying!”

“I am just quite-quite happy to see you, sister Shaeranna.” I said, finding my eyes were indeed rather misty. “It has been too long.”

“Call me Anna, Ula, I insist!” she said, as usual. It is hard to use such a nickname with a muscle-brained warrior like my sister, but perhaps now I have grown strong myself… besides, to please her, it is not such a large matter.

“Very well, sister Anna. I am pleased to see you well.” At my reply, she froze, and I managed to slip free from her arms, brushing at my yukata, smoothing it out.

“Ula!” She cried, overjoyed, moving in for a hug again, but another female stopped her, a brilliant red-furred foxkin, her bushy tail quite magnificent, and her matching red eyes strangely kind. I am not partial to foxkin, for obvious reasons. But she seems well-acquainted with my sister.

“Calm down, Shaeranna. You are spoiling this tender moment.” The foxkin said, and my sister paused, actually heeding her, which was a surprise. “Besides, you will have ample time to talk to her when the task here is done, no?”

“But Talaisha…” my sister whined, surprising me, as I had not seen her like that before. “… little Ula has been thrust out into the wilderness, her life in constant danger, constant peril, and…”

“Does she look in peril to you? Honestly, I wish you would think with your brain, not your spear, for once.” The foxkin, Talaisha let out a long sigh, her luxurious tail flailing. “We came here to celebrate her victory over an Unseelie Duke.” Her eyes glittered red, indigo and gold flecks within, and I felt her vision upon me. “Yes, you worry too much, Shaeranna. She’s strong. Triple elemental as well. One of them radiates such power I am in awe.”

“My little Ula, triple element? Surely not, simply no!” My sister shook her head. “How would that even be possible?”

Before I could answer, another familiar face interjected. “Well, don’t you look different? To think I believed you were merely a guest of prince Shaeraggo, a potential bride. Do forgive me.”

At those words from the freshly arrived Way-Captain Caeladaera, my brother, who was trying to make himself inconspicuous, flinched. Shaeranna looked over at him, her eyes menacing, and he quickly ducked his head in apology. Not that the Way-Captain’s misunderstanding is an any way his fault. Still, my brother seems more nervous than usual around sister.

“Well, we were indeed lying low, so you can not-not be faulted, Way-Captain.” I said politely. “After all, I was not-not supposed to have returned to the Seelie Court, though now that matters little.” I puffed out my chest, proud of all we had accomplished.

“Indeed.” The Way-Captain nodded, and I noticed a small resemblance to the elven Prince, which made me wonder if she was a relative. “With such a triumph here, your banishment must surely be rescinded.” Her ears drooped as she looked around the once-lush forests, now merely dead, corrupted earth. “Another tragic tale, but one that must surely have a hopeful conclusion.”

I agreed. “Indeed. The treekin and plantkin under Primal Forest will be restoring the land. Most-most of the Myconid contagion is gone, and we will aid in cleansing the remaining filth. Akio and I, we shall spare no effort carrying the Spring of Clear Reflections to heights beyond the glory it knew before.”

“Akio, that was the one I mistook for your servant and bodyguard, correct?” Way-Captain Caeladaera mused, tinged pink with mortification. “It seems I did him a grave disservice, if he was instrumental in this.”

“Well, Akio did tell you that himself, did he not-not?” I chuckled, enjoying her surprise. “He would take no-no offense. For such an important male and my husband-to-be, he is quite-quite modest and humble.”

“Your husband? I see.” The Way-Captain nodded, understanding why we had seemed so close, but her words were drowned out by a howling eruption of ire from my sister.

“Ula, what is this, is this?” She cried, reaching out and trying to grab me. I batted her hands away, but she was still faster and stronger than me, so soon I was within her grasp. “Husband? Which vile bastard has sunk his despicable claws in my Ula? I’ll ram my spear up his…”

The sound of a slap rang out, and my hand stung. Shaeranna froze, momentarily shocked, before she released me, hand going to her cheek, which was starting to swell. “Ula?” she said, confused. “Why did you…”

“Why did I strike you? I will not-not tolerate disrespect towards Akio, not-not from anyone, even you, Anna. You know nothing of him. Brother Shaeraggo can attest to the lengths Akio would-would go to for me, and the victory at the Spring, it was his-his plan.”

Shaeraggo froze as Shaeranna turned slowly, robotically, fixing him with her steely gaze. He sighed, defeated. “I wanted to be left out-out of this. But yes, I do not-not care for the mortal, but I can attest he does love our sister, and he fought me to the bitter end.” He shuddered, remembering the sight of Akio leaping at him, ablaze with Foehn, heedless of his own safety. “I do not-not approve of him bringing Shaeula to such a dangerous place as this, but… well, she stands here victorious, does she not-not?”

“Yes, he seemed genuinely fond of your sister, from what I could gather.” The Way-Captain chimed in. “He was also fiercely protective of that maid of yours, the Unseelie one. I had my doubts then, but results matter. And knowing your true heritage, I have no doubts you are loyal to the Court.”

“Of course. After all, I shall soon be a Duchess.” I puffed out my chest once more, pride again swelling within me. My sister was still frozen, so I took pity on her. “Look, Anna. I understand you dote on me and are worried for me, but-but there is nothing better than finding a soulmate, the full moon to your new moon. I have never-never been happier, and the happiness only increases day by day. Please…” I took her limp hand, and life sparked back into her jade eyes. “… I only ask that you give my Akio a fair-fair chance. He is kind and rather soft, but when he must fight to protect me or those we cherish, he will become a warrior even you-you can respect.”

“Oh, Ula…” she whispered, clearly conflicted. “My little sister…”

I smiled impishly then, amused at the idea that had occurred to me. Sorry Akio, but it is for my family. I know you will not mind! “Well, if you simply must test him, then perhaps a Trial of Three?” my grin was enticing, and I patted my sisters’ hand warmly. “We can make an event of it, show off his power and mine. It might prove useful politically. You can-can even ask brother to join in. I am sure he hungers for revenge, am I right-right?”

“Please do not drag me into this-this.” He protested, but if sister Shaeranna wanted his co-operation, he would end up forced into it regardless. He was weak to his sister.

“A Trial, I see, I see.” She muttered, mulling over the idea. “I would most like to test, to challenge, this Akio, my spear against his weapon of choice.” She mused, and I rejoiced that she had fallen into my trap. Still, there is another pressing matter to address…

“Speaking of marriage, what-what is this I hear about you and that scum Duke Vulpatrius? Surely you do not-not like that vile fire-fox? After all, he has been working against me, against us for a long time.”

“That shit-stained, dung-breath fuck?” My sister cursed vilely, before pausing, looking at Talaisha guiltily. “Uh, I am sorry, so sorry. I did not mean to insult your shit of a father in front of you…”

Talaisha waved it away with a sigh. “Forget about it, Shaeranna. I know you have grievances. Father can be… difficult. I know that. He does have a kinder side, but it is well hidden.”

“Yeah well, uh, the Duke…” my sister corrected herself. “No, of course I do not care for him, like him. Marriage? Worthless. All I want to do is fight. I dream of leading the Way-Wardens one day. Talaisha, you too, right?”

The red-furred foxkin nodded. “If you agree with my father about naught else, then the need to have strong Way-Wardens and hunt down our enemies is unquestionable.”

“Little Ula, do not worry about me.” She ruffled my fur, and I smiled at the warmth of it. “Sure, I do not wish to marry the wretched… uh, the Duke, but I can live with it. He can have my body, but never my heart. That lies in battle, in combat!”

“No, he shall have neither.” I declared. “I now know-know how precious love is, and I shall not allow you, my dear sister Anna, to throw yours away so recklessly. I wish you to experience the same joys I did-did with Akio. After all, you are my sister and I love you, despite your flaws.” I grinned to rob that of some of the sting. Though I would love you to work on your overbearing nature! “Duke Vulpatrius owes us, owes me, and I will surely collect that-that debt. The marriage shall be cancelled! Find love, dear sister Anna, and then you will understand me better, and Akio too.”

“It sounds to me like you know what you are talking about.” Way-Captain Caeladaera smirked, and I flushed beneath my fur, glad I was not in my mortal form. “You have more experience than these two, anyway.”

“My sister, she has become an adult, a mature female.” Shaeranna was shocked, losing strength and slumping to her knees.

“I do not-not mind telling you all about it.” I pressed my advantage. “But I will not-not let a sister of mine squander herself on that bastard.”

“I’m glad for you. If your sister can sway this matter, I would welcome it.” Talaisha said, eyes kind, as she looked down on her friend. “I will miss the opportunity to be sister-wives, but this is for the best. My father… he does not suit you. He would not have mistreated you, despite the rivalry he shares with your father, for he loves all his wives, but even so…”

Sister-wives? Ah yes, the Duke has no issue marrying his daughters and counts several of his sisters as wives too. I confess, I do not see too much issue with that, though Akio and Aiko, Eri too, they all insist it is an abomination and disgusting. If there is love, why care? Although, the thought of marrying any of my brothers does not appeal, I admit. But… Shaeranna seems sad. This will not do. “Anna, Talaisha. If neither of you wish for this, leave it to me!” I pounded my chest confidently, emerald sickle at my wrist shining with the light of the moon. “I shall negotiate and set you both-both free from this fate. Though in exchange, I will need your support, and that of as many of the Way-Wardens as you can muster…”

As I outlined my plan, Shaeranna and Shaeraggo were impressed and shocked, while Talaisha merely stood there looking thoughtful, chewing on the tip of her bushy tail as she weighed me up, her glorious red eyes judging my intent. The Way-Captain slapped me on the back, overjoyed at my audacity, and she promised to speak to the other Captains on my behalf. Yes, this will work. I need to resolve all the issues here, so I can return to Akio as soon as possible. The lands of the Fae, the Seelie Court, it is indeed a home to me, but my true home now is where Akio is, and all my fellow wives…