A World Unknown (Closed for Katalynn)

For Jayden, his life as he knew it was quite... boring. Having never known his mother or father as he had been told that when he was very young that his parents had died in a car crash that had involved a drunk driver. Initially he had been passed from the few uncles and aunts that his estranged family had been connected to, before he had 'settled' in with his uncle Peter.

Growing up though wasn't easy for Jayden either. At first he had been short and stocky, and with having moved from family member to family member he hadn't really been able to develop a sense of self esteem, and by the time he had... well bullying in school had crushed that as well.

Finally when he had broken away into high school he was able to make some progress for himself. Jayden proved to be very bright, and making up for his early education he surprised quite a few of his teachers who had seen his dismal marks and assumed he was a trouble maker. The only really 'unique' thing about Jayden was a ring he had kept with him through his life. He had been given it when he was old enough to understand what a ring was and was told it was his fathers. The silver and gold band was wrought in a very unique way, and Jayden as he approached his twenty first birthday could have sworn that he felt a pulse from the ring.

Honestly, had that been the only strangeness in his life he would have been fine... however when he had his twenty first birthday and was partying with some college friends he paused suddenly, seeming to just stop in place. " Hey Jayden, you okay?" Jacob shouted over the music... though Jayden's mind was quite a far ways away.

Flashes of mountains... paths... forests and what looked to be a massive castle surrounded by a shimmering globe was both enthralling and yet overwhelming as well. Jacob in the 'real world' made his way over to Jayden and shook his shoulder, and the vision dissapeared.

" Hey man you okay?!"

" Yeah... yeah I'm good."

He smiled slightly and shrugged, passing off the weirdness for just that... a one time moment of weirdness. He had NO idea he had just sent out an astral signal... one that was untrained, uncontrolled... and VERY powerful!

Whether he knew it or not, Jayden had just changed his life forever. For Jayden, once he had gotten into College things had definitely picked up. He had gotten himself into shape by running, and found it helped to clear his mind. He had worked hard and within his own mind he was just a normal guy in a normal world. He had majored in Business Administration and minored in Accounting... he having a plan that he was going to get a base job for experience and work his way up. It was a solid plan... at least to him!

Erayna never forgot what happened 16 years ago. They came in a raided the home lands of the elves and the humans. Among many other races. The lands lost their luster and the darkness followed the raids. None were safe, none were powerful enough at the time to defeat this evil. Erayna remembers the day well, she was playing along the river with a little boy about two years older. This is the first.... and last... time she met the boy. His parents tried to run, just as her parents did with both children in their arms. The boys parents managed to cast a spell and the boy disappeared just as the father died and the mother captured. The same happened to her parents, although right before all this happened, Her parents once told her that no matter what happens, the two will always find each other. Erayna was only four years old at the time.... She still remembers as if it was only yesterday.

However, after six years, she had given up hope on ever seeing the boy the again. The Shadow Lord, Zeyamon... Had taken her and raised her as his own daughter. Behind closed doors he did show a softer side, trying his best to win her love as any father would want from his child. However, even at such a young age, she knew there was no love there. Yet, she learned how to pretend rather well. She never trusted him, yet, she also had no other choice. Being only a child at the time, she wouldn't survive out there alone. The only other choice is become one of his imp slaves. Which is what happened to the men and other children that didn't die. The women.... they were fair game to the rest of his minions... He had shown her things that no child should ever see, only to make his choices very clear... Obey, die, or be like her mother.... Naturally, Erayna, chose to obey....

She was just a child and never knew any better, there were times when she did try to run away. Only to get caught and punished through hard training for days. A life that no child should ever live, yet the shadow lord saw something in her eyes. A future that he would eventually be able to take advantage of. What he never knew is that she never forgot that he is the one that ripped her parents from her arms to never be seen again. Eraynia quickly learned that she had to be a good girl and obey without question.


Another six years went by, putting her at the age of 16 and she has killed more than the one that trained her. Surpassing her elders in almost everything. She killed when and who she was told to kill, always without fail. She can slip in and out of any place without being seen and because of her innocent face, none questioned who she is or why she is there. When she allowed herself to be seen. There were none that touched her either, not only would she kill them, they would also have to answer to Zeymon. One the many benefits of being raised by a great shadown lord is being protected... As long as you don't go against his wishes. Eventually, she did see him as a father, the only parent she has grown to known. A tiny part of her did care about what happens to him, only because he never once lied to her, never allowed another to punish her. Also, he trusted her with his life... Just as she trusted him with hers.

Although, she never truly forgot that horrible time her in her life... the faces did fade over time. Even the boys face and name faded from memory, however, a ring that his father wore never faded. Yet, after all these years, she hasn't thought about any of those memories. They were useless to her now, there is never a point to dwell on the past. Not even her parents were a thought as her mother still lives, yet she is no longer and elf. Years of being a sex doll to the demons had changed her into a sex crazed demoness herself... Her father remains as an imp. What happened to the boy and his parents, she will never know..

Here she is at the age of 19 and sits at her fathers side tall and proud. They were both listening to the oracle telling them of a sign that the true ruling bloodline has been awaken. Giving tales that that this human is a real threat and will eventually take back the realm. However, the human in question is powerless and lives in a different realm. This confused Erayna a great deal as she knew the bloodline had ended with her parents and the boys parents. This is not possible that another of that bloodline could live.

"I will go Father. I will not fail you and I will bring back his head and his heart for you."

Zeyamon stared at her for a long time before answering. He didn't like the idea of sending her off to a realm filled with humans. Sure, he has sent her to many of the human encampments here that are a threat. Yet, that has always been in a realm where he can protect her if needed. He has grown to love her in his own way as a daughter and would conquer any world in order to keep her safe. She is his only weakness, though he can never show it.

"Very well. I will give you a month to seek him out. However, do not kill him just yet. I wish to see this... boy for myself. Bring him back to me and perhaps I will allow you to keep him as a pet..."

This made Erayna grin and she agreed, soon following the oracle and prepared to set out to the mortal realm. The oracle sent to the same location where the boy was last seen to be living. The oracle gave her all that she needed to live among the humans without causing too many questions. Once in the mortal realm, she will look like one of them, though sadly she had no idea of how to act like one of them. Little did she know that the portal had placed her along some beach and a path where runners and bikers were on. Still shell shocked from everything she is seeing around her, never having seen such strange things... she bumps right into Jayden and practically landed them both to the ground.

"I am so sorry...."

She quickly said, not realizing he couldn't hear her with the headphones in his ears. At first, she didn't notice that he is her target... that is until she looked at him... Though, she didn't quite know what to do in that moment. The oracle told her it would cause problems if she did something foolish in front of other humans. Her father didn't want her to kill him... For a moment, she just sat there on the ground stunned and simply stared at him...

Jayden had been incredibly confused over the last few weeks. After the party he had continued on with his studies and life, but he found he had a sense of power that seemed to be rippling through him. It felt as though he had drank five energy drinks a day but he didn't do any of that crap. He had absolutely no memory of the other realm. His parents in that last moment of desperation had wiped his memory and teleported him into the mortal realm. It was the only way to protect him. With the ring as a sensor for the correct age... well he had no idea the transition he was entering, nor the claim that his blood held.

Instead more and more he seemed to see flashes... from rolling fields of green, to desecrated wastelands of destruction... it was overwhelming. He had already went to see his doctor who had told him physically he was fine... and even sleep medications didn't seem to help much. It was as though he had this feeling that he was meant for greater things... things beyond his imagination or conception.

He had gone on the run that day just to try and clear his head. With a playlist of power ballads playing in his ears he had been right in the runners mindset when he almost would have sworn that his ring throbbed. He had glanced down to see if everything was all right just in time to look up as he literally bowled a poor redheaded woman over, he crashing onto his knees.

Managing to reach up and pinch the control to the headphones he paused the music and yanked them out of his ears as well.

" I'm soooo sorry!"

He managed to struggle back up to his feet though of course offered her a hand. She could see that there were quite a few others around... from fellow runners, to street vendors it certainly wasn't a prime spot to kill or capture him. Instead Jayden was panting slightly from the run and was holding his hand out to her. Of course on his right hand center finger was that un-mistakable ring. With her magical senses she'd easily be able to verify that he was the one she had been sent here for.

" Come on up... I'm Jayden, I'm sorry about that I was in my own head."

He looked sheepish about bowling her over, and unlike the people of her realm there was no hint or sense of fear or intimidation from him. Yet even as he helped her back up to her feet he twisted his wrist, glancing at the time on his watch.

" are you all right?"

His voice was filled with warmth and genuine concern for her. He didn't want to have hurt her, though realistically she shouldn't be all that hard up. His eyes did travel over her, noticing the wrap around top that hugged her slim yet shapely torso meeting with a nice tasteful black skorter skirt as well. Finishing her 'outfit' were a pair of black sandals which really did work in her favor.

Jayden's energy pulsed VERY noticeably though... he didn't even have to try and she'd feel his aura. Of course he had no idea what aura's, magical bloodlines or energy manipulation even WERE, but that was besides the point... it was all there, awakened and pure unaltered RAW magical energy on a scale that hadn't been felt previously EVER.

Erayna still hadn't noticed the ring right away as she is too fixated on his eyes. There's just something very familiar about them. something that screamed... home. However, it was when she reached out for his hand and touched the ring, is when she noticed it. All she could do is stare at it before his voice broke the silence. Looking back up at him, she can feel the pulsing power from his ring and soon the little boy's face came back to her.

"It's you... the boy from my dreams.."

She spoke without realizing that she said it outloud. Shaking her head when he asked a question. Taking a moment to remember why she is here and take notice of her surroundings. People were looking at her strangely and that's when she felt the stinging in her knee... Glancing down to see that she had scraped it and there is some blood.

"Umm.. yes.. I am fine. I-... I am just a little lost is all. I am new araound here. Was suppose to meet someone about living arrangements.. but they never showed."

She bent down without thinking about what anyone would see as she looked over her knee. Wiping away what dirt there is, all the while wondering if he knew who she really is. He didn't act like it, didn't act like he feels the power radiating from the ring.

"Oh yea, my name is Erayna.. Anyway, I really need to find a place to stay. So I should let you go and again, I am really sorry for interrupting your day."

As she stood back up, looking at him once again and not really wanting to leave his side. That sudden urge to protect him washed over her and knew that he needed her... just as much as she needed him. However, she honestly didn't know him well enough to understand why she feels this way. If he is that same little boy, then he does have a rightful place on the throne. And is of greater power than the Shadow Lord himself. For some reason, this Jayden didn't seem to realize that. Or if he did, he is hiding it rather well. In her eyes, he can't be that same boy though, he vanished and never came back.... For all she knew he is dead.

And yet, he wears his fathers ring and that power.... It begged for her to protect him. It wanted her to wake it more, to feed it. Sadly, she didn't know how to feed it just yet.

When she stood up again, looking a bit lost as she glanced around her surroundings. Everything is so new to her, the cars, the gadgets that the mortals used. Even their clothes were strange to her. Most importantly of all, her own skin didn't feel right. She wanted her beautiful, flawless body back. This human flesh made her skin crawl...

"Anyway, it was nice meeting you... Jayden... I hope to see you again sometime."

She spoke rather hesitantly as she started to walk off in some random direction. All she knew is she needed to get away from him and regain her senses... Needed to think of a new plan, process what all this means. Most of all, needed to figure out how to bring him back to her father... Assuming this urge to protect him doesn't get in the way. The whole time she walked, it is very clear she had no idea where she is or where she is going...

Jayden had deep hazel eyes, though he really had no idea why she was looking at him that way. After all, she didn't look anything like the little girl he had played with as a little boy, nor would he have remembered her with the memory wipe spell his parents cast on him before they had teleported him away. He had no idea his mother... his real mother was alive, which realistically with what would have become of her that may very well have been for the best as well. He had a truly innocent look... one that indicated no recognition or acknowledgment of her really at all.

He DID feel a strange desire to be near her... like a VERY strong desire but really, he didn't know her nor did he want to get all creepy on her so instead he helped her up from the sandy beach. As she said something about him being a boy from her dreams he himself gave her a strange but curious look as well. He shook his head though, trying to sort out himself as well. The contact with her seemed to have him even more on edge than normal.. though the last few weeks had been strange all on their own.

" Erayna... that sounds Gaelic? Greek? never mind... sorry..."

He actually blushed at the fact he was getting lost in just talking to her. As she bent down to inspect her knee he couldn't help but follow her movement, the bending displaying the tops of her breasts very nicely along with her bare back and the curve of her backside as well. As she explained about living accommodations though Jayden again cursed himself for feeling like he should sweep her off her feet and take her home. He didn't have any idea what was wrong with him but he REALLY needed to sort himself out.

He nodded dumbly as she said that she needed to find a place to stay... and he dumbly stood there for a few minutes watching her go though without really thinking about it he rolled up his earbuds and tucking them into his pocket he jogged up and caught up to her.

" Hey! sorry but if you're here on an educational internship then you'll want to go to the college's campus administration office... if not well then you can also check out a hostel or air B&B temporarily..."

She certainly seemed like a fish out of water here but well... it was also endearing to him as well.

" The Campus is another three miles up along main street... That's where I was heading anyway. Are you studying abroad?"

He didn't REALLY know why he was continuing to engage her and even shyly tucked his hands into his shorts pockets as he walked with her. It was a VERY nice and warm sunny day. He had another forty five minutes before class so he figured he could spare a bit more time to help her out even a little bit.

Erayna smirked slightly thinking her name is elvish.. Of course she couldn't say that. Not without raising a ton of potential questions anyway. Though his questions caught her off guard.She had no idea what he is talking about. Internship? College?

"I am here on business. In simple terms, a transfer. My employer wanted me out here for a time. But his contact appeared to have flaked out on me.."

She wasn't quite sure if that is the right thing to say, yet it is the truth without saying too much.She had no clue what a hotel or B&B is,but if it is a place to rest and gather her senses.. then that is a good place to start.

"Are there any of those... things you mentionedon the way? Hotel.. or B&B? It has been a rather rough day for me.. There is quite a bit I still need to do, but either of those places will work."

Or so she hoped. Also she hasn't had a chance to figure out what abilities she had here in the mortal realm. That is first thing on her list, everything else will fall into place after that. Again, that is just hopeful thinking.

"Is there anygood places here to eat? Once I get settled in maybe we can get some dinner.. or something.."

Again, she didn't know if that is a proper way to thank someone or not.She has watched the interactions of the humans in her realm and she has heard similar offers.

"It will be my treat... Anapology for being in your path. Maybe it can be a better first impression. Perhaps if you want to.. You can show me around.."

Typically she doesn't get close to her targets, However, she knew this one would be a bit more challenging in this realm. Also, she can't shake this feeling to protect him.

Jayden had caught himself rambling about the origins of her name... he certainly wasn't as confident as others but then again he didn't fear her or really know her either. As she explained that she was out here on business he nodded, that making sense to him. After all there were some branches of different businesses out here.

" Business eh? what kind of business are you in? that must be exciting to go traveling so much."

Jayden hadn't really traveled. He never really had money or opportunity like that, and he didn't count being chucked place to place as traveling when he was rejected as a young boy. As she asked about the hotel or B&B's though he nodded easily.

" Yeah, there's a few on the way, I can show you where they are and you can pick which you want to stay in. I hope you have some money though they don't really come cheap, well the B&B's do more than the hotels."

As she asked about food though he grinned. Food was something he cherished really.

" Oh yeah, there's restaurants all over the place, and if you want convenience there's also delivery apps and whatnot you can use to have different foods delivered right to you."

Of course he was talking modern technology, after all she wasn't old or anything so he figured she'd be familiar with smart phones and apps and the like. As she suggested dinner though he actually blushed faintly but dug into his shorts pocket and fished out his smart phone.

Tapping the phone open he flipped into his calendar and frowned.

" I can't... at least not today. There's a seminar I've been waiting to go to for a few months now on confidence and successful mentalities."

He actually did look a bit sad about that but perked up.

" Why don't I give you my number and when you're settled you can text me and we can figure out a evening or day. I would definitely not mind seeing you again Erayna."

He didn't know why he was even really drawn to her other than that she was a hot redhead, but there was definitely something about her that he did want to learn about a bit more. It was clear he wouldn't mind showing her around either. With the zipping cars, streets and lights it would probably have been overwhelming for her had she been traversing it alone.

Slowing by a larger building he stopped by a doorman.

" So this is the Kajin Hotel, it's a good one. Down the street and around the corner there's another one it's a Grand Stay Hotel and further down the other direction are a few B&B's. For the bed and breakfasts you're better off going online most of their bookings are done that way. There's also food along the strip as well as shopping."

He glanced at his watch... he really needed to get moving but he went over to the doorman and asked to borrow a pen and paper, writing down his phone number he returned and offered it to her.

" Call or text me, I'm in classes most of today but I'll reply in between okay?"

He felt a STRONG urge to kiss her but pushed that down for now, this was NOT the place and he certainly didn't know her well enough to be that forward, he was kind and honestly a bit shy despite his VERY fit and handsome physique!

It really did amaze her that he is being so kind to her. Not asking too many personal questions is a wonderful thing. However, a lot of what he is saying is beyond her. Call? Text? Booking things online? The real confusing thing is when he spoke of apps, she had no clue at all what to make of anything. The more he spoke, the more she realized just how much she wanted to go home. This realm is far more scarier than her own. Though, seeing how eager he is to help her, even if he had to leave right now... She figured getting him to follow her to the other realm might be easier than simply forcing him to go.

"I guess you can say that I am a bounty hunter of sorts. Most of what I do isn't for small talk."

She smiles as they came up to the first hotel and she noticed that he is in a hurry to leave. Watching as he wrote down some sort of code on paper, which she took and looked at it a little confused.

"This.. hotel will be fine... Why don't you just come back here when you are done. It will be easier that way... won't it? That way I don't disrupt whatever it is you are doing. I promise I will be here when you arrive... I will let the innkeeper know to expect you."

She didn't realize she used the word inkeeper in a place like this, though she didn't give him time to respond as she walked in. The whole time she couldn't shake this feeling off, she knew her task, knew that he needed to be brought back to her Father. Still, the ring and the memories... his energy just pouring into her when she touched that ring. It all made her second guess this task. She can't go against her father though, he will punish her severely and most likely kill Jayden while she watches. Shaking her head, she went up the innkeeper and spoke to them about a room. Luckily her touch worked, looking into the young girls eyes, she got a room without having to pay for it. Jayden would have a keycard waiting when.. if he returns.

The keycard confused her, though while glancing at her neighbor, she watched carefully of how it works and copied his movements. Surprisingly her door opened and allowed her entry. The room isn't like anything she has ever seen before, nothing at all like the human inns back home. It wasn't a cheap room either, it ended up being the honeymoon suite, which had everything a person could ask for. Booze in the fridge, a deep spa bath, walk in shower.. the works.. Of course, she didn't know how any of it worked yet.

Erayna spent the day trying to figure out how this room worked, finding out she really enjoyed the minature shots of booze. Almost better than the mead the humans made back home.... almost... All the while, she figured out what this or that button did, how the bathroom worked. The bed... She loved the bed!! She never knew beds could be so comfortable!! After a while, she started testing out her magic abilities, pulling her things out from the dark void to help her make it here in this realm. She kept looking at the code that Jayden had written down, wondering what it meant. He kept saying to call or text him... How is this code going to do that for her? No ritual she has ever done when summoning someone needed a code like this.

With a sigh, she set the number down on the counter, by the phone... which had more codes sitting next to it. She didn't really know how to read the human language, yet, she knew simple words, just barely enough to get by. What she saw appeared to be a menu of some kind. Still, she couldn't quite figure out how the phone worked, pushing random buttons and when she heard the voice on the other end... she hung up as it frightened her!! After that, she vowed to never touch that device again!! She didn't know how late it is getting as she changed her clothes into a simple black summer dress. Looking in her pouch to see she had plenty of cash that these humans supposedly used.

Eventually making her way to the balcony while waiting to see if Jayden will actually return or not. For some reason, the thought of seeing him again made the butterflies in her gut flutter like crazy. Something she couldn't understand because she never felt this way about any male in her life. Though, that feeling led to what she felt and the vague memories that came flooding in when she touched his ring. This caused her to become lost in thought, while recalling her own past memories that were long lost and suppose to be forgotten. This time, for the first time in a long time, seeing the young boys face once again.... a friendly face she hasn't seen in years... Every detail as if she is there playing with him by the river again...

In a world where there weren't the same kinds of threats as her world... well Jayden didn't have any actual reason to be unkind or fearful around her. He didn't know her, not really anyway. Just as her realm with magics and shadow demons and other magical threats would have been frightening and scary to him, the zipping cars, flashing lights and automated doors were foreign and frightening to her.

As he returned with his phone number he kind of looked curiously at her when she said that she was a bounty hunter of sorts. That only raised many more questions for him but really, he did need to get going.

" All right, I should be able to do that... but still, call or text so that I can get your number."

as the work innkeeper entered his mind processing wise and he was going to ask her about it he realized she was already gone. Standing there a moment he kind of just stared at the doors. He had to admit there was a very strong urge for him to go after her, but shaking his head he took out his ear buds, pushed them back into his ears and took off back to the campus.

He had to push a bit harder than usual to get back on time, but getting changed quickly into a pair of light khakis as well as a simple college t-shirt he grabbed his bag and headed off to class. He checked his phone throughout the day and frowned a few times when she didn't call or text. It made him wonder whether she had actually wanted to make a connection. After all she had seemed interested but... well this caused doubt for him.

Pushing those thoughts away though he focused instead on his studies, he having three classes that day he had a break mid day to grab some lunch, but when his final class finished up around five and glancing at his phone seeing nothing there, he sighed and headed back to the small two bedroom house that he shared with a fellow college mate named Mitch. They didn't really talk much but they did get along well enough, each keeping the place clean.

Dropping off his bag and settling down at his desk he opened up his laptop and did a few online things such as checking his personal email and mostly wondering whether he should even bother going back to the hotel. There was no way to know if she was even there and by that point he was pretty sure that she had brushed him off.

His own self insecurities said to forget it... and yet as she herself synced into her memories of playing with him as a boy by the river Jayden gasped in real life as he froze physically, his energy seeming to connect naturally on a supernatural level with her, strengthening automatically the dream, bringing it to the forefront. For Jayden he watched two strange young children playing in a fantastical place... yet looking around the area he didn't recognize any of it.

This is home...

Jayden shook at a soft, feminine voice which he didn't recognize either... but the voice seemed familiar as well... soft and soothing.

Soon all will be revealed my son... until then... trust no one.

" Wait... what do you mean?!"

Jayden shouted into the air... none of it made sense... but then again he was beginning to think that he was going crazy as well. As soon as he shouted though the vision, or dream, or whatever it was snapped out of view and he was back in his room. He realized that he was sweating and shaking... and yet from Erayna's side her younger self would have heard something and looking up seen a strange man dissapear from the air about twenty feet up, and the outline of a woman who was familiar to the girl but a stranger to Erayna slowly dissipate with the wind.

" What... the fuck."

Jayden mumbled to himself... and yet groaning to himself, he felt a surge of power and glancing down he was shocked to see that the ring he wore had created a circular golden globe around a tiny spark of energy. At first Jayden like most rational people would think that he was like... imagining or had hit his head but he was still sitting in his computer chair so that wasn't possible... but neither was a floating orb of power which was hovering about an inch above his hand!

His entire arm was tingling and any thoughts of going to see if Erayna was still at the hotel was gone. Grunting slightly he tried to close his hand and found it very difficult to do so. Reaching across with his left hand and grabbing onto his right wrist seemed to help and after a few minutes he was able to close his hand which sealed the orb back inside him whilst groaning, grunting and swearing at the orb. Panting hard and feeling quite light headed from the amount of effort that had taken he felt as though the world was spinning upside down... almost as though he was falling while sitting.

Managing to get to his feet Jayden found his vision was blurring as well and with a supreme amount of effort he managed to get the seven feet from the chair to his bed. Falling onto it he immediately passed out, not awakening again until morning.

There were disruptions within her memories, a ripple of energy flickered as the memory played out. It was then she felt a presence watching her through the memory, heard a voice that seemed so distant. Although, when she turned... nothing was there.Turning back around as the memory kept playing out, giving her a trapped sensation. She saw a man and a female disappear in the air, another ripple made the memory flicker once more.

"Find him, he needs you... GO.. NOW!"

Erayna spun around again to the mixed voices that sounded so familiar.. only to find nothing. Then the world around her went black and she felt an energy pulling at her. It wasn't forceful, or all that harsh really... More like a guiding sensation, as if this energy is showing her the way through the darkness. Just as she's been trained, her guard went on high alert and she was preparing for anything to come at her. She spent quite a bit of time training blind to highten her senses and never be caught off guard. However, this darkness didn't feel threatening at all. If anything, there is a strange comfort within it.

In truth, this darkness didn't last very long at all and it cleared she found herself standing over a body that is barely in the bed, face down. Looking around, it didn't appear that this person was attacked, nothing in the surroundings indicated a struggle. Erayna took a closer look at the form laying on the ground, seeing how he is holding his wrist, as though he was in a lot of pain at some point. On closer inspection, she found that it is Jayden and the energy she felt came from his ring which in her eyes is glowing brightly now. It left no doubt that it was the ring that guided her here... in a sense summoned her to find him.

However, there is no explaination as to where the voice came from... Did the ring speak to her as well? That didn't make sense though, of course she knows all about enchanted items, she knew this ring is very enchanted through his fathers bloodline... Yet, she's never known of any to speak out like this one apparently did. Shaking her head, she proceeded to make him more comfortable, pulling the covers over him.

"what am I going to do with you?"

With that she stayed with him for the rest of the night, unsure of what else to do. Almost afraid to leave his side at this point, especially if his ring is capable of summoning her like that. Something she seriously does not like the idea of. The only one that has any right to summon her is The Dark Lord. Sadly, she never noticed a marking on her neck that matches the exact design of Jayden's ring. It appeared when she was going through the darkness. For, now, there isn't much she can do and it has been a very exhausting day, with that, Erayna crashed on the couch until he woke...

Jayden had no idea what he was doing, nor that he had linked to another's dreams. He was incredibly confused and the whirlwind of sensations, emotions and thoughts were all too much for him. He wouldn't have had any idea of what he had accomplished by linking much less summoning her.

Within his mind a torrent of images seemed to flash through his mind... his eyes seeming to flutter a few times subconsciously through the night. He moved automatically when she adjusted him, though as she did she would see that a small arcane circle had appeared on the inside of his right wrist, marking that his awakening had begun.

The awakening in their realm usually was never needed. After all with a magical realm and a direct connection to the aether that ran through the realm all creatures had access... the markings were meant to enhance one's power, to hone and direct it... but why the marking of power had already appeared on his wrist was another mystery.

About halfway through the night Merrick returned and she'd hear him on his side of the duplex. There was no magical aptitude from the man so no threat... and Jayden had the bedroom which housed his desk, laptop, a floor lamp and of course his bed. The laptop sat open and powered on since he certainly hadn't been thinking about powering it down when in his opinion all reality went to shit.

Slowly as the morning arrived Jayden's smart watch began to beep loudly and automatically... he had a morning class in an hour and a half. Grunting and groaning with a return to wakefulness Jayden reached over and thoughtlessly pressed the three buttons to shut off the alarm./

Well... ow...

He thought to himself, not realizing he was telepathically transmitting those thoughts as well within a short range, just enough that she'd hear him.

" Ok... that was a weird night."

He felt like the inside of his skull was crawling with fire ants, and that every nerve in his body was tingling in the most weird way possible. Swinging his legs off the bed he climbed to his feet pushing the sheets aside as he headed for the bathroom, feeling as though he was going to be sick but unsure if he was actually going to.

For now he took no notice of her on his couch at all.

Am I getting sick? I really can't afford to get sick... Professor DiLeo is a real hard ass...

He was still mentally thinking and unconsciously transmitting his thoughts as well... he had absolutely no control of whatever powers were now awakening from him!

There was too much happening and it was happening fast. Sleep did not come easy since both their dreams were connecting. Many of which she had to bury very very deep. Dreams if a lost and forgotten time. She dreamed of her mother and father, the day they told her she is too meet someone special. That someday this little boy is meant to be her mate. They were both meant to rule the realm.

One problem with that now.... She only knew of one way to rule... His... Way. If you don't follow under his rule.. You will get punished, or die. Or any number of things to he chose to do for entertainment.

Another problem that will no doubt cross her path is another assassin. The energy and power pouring off Jayden is so thick one can taste it. That tends to create attention. There was no sleep for her as she spent most the night listening to him. Then his room mate came home... Which she watched very carefully. Thankfully he went straight to bed.

After that she must of gotten at tiny bit of sleep cause Jayen woke her up from another vivid dream. Erayna still hadn't decided what to do, hell he doesn't even know she is here. What she did know is that they were not safe here. He is too exposed, which made her just as exposed. The entire time she is laying there still on the couch, listening for him.

He still hadn't discovered her when she heard the shower turn on. It was about that time when she made a choice...

"This will be fun....."

She mumbled under her breathe and waited a few moments. Using the spell that the oracle gave her, switching a few words around.... They both ended up in the castle from his dreams. She made a few adjustments and he is still in the shower as if nothing happened. He notice until he gets out of the shower and find himself in a massive bedroom.

Meanwhile she slipped out of the room knowing he will go into shock. He most likely will panic as well, especially when he realizes this is the castle in his visions. She chose this place because it hide him for now. After the raids someone enchanted it in order to hide it in plain sight. The only reason she knew is because her bloodline is connected to it.

Jayden is connected to it as well since it is rightfully his. It hasnt been used since the raids though. For a short while it was used as a sanctuary. Sadly, the people were slowly caught from foolish choices. Or they moved on to safer areas.

In truth, she didn't know how safe they honestly were here. The Oracle will have known when she used the spell to return home. In all honesty she had no plans on returning this early. His world fascinated her and she want to explore. Unfortunately, he would soon catch on that she didn't belong there. Also, she seriously had no way to protect him. Let alone watch his every move. Her dreams from last night told her he is the one to save the realm from her wanna be father. Not to mention she no longer felt safe in his world.

She just hopes this choice was the right one to make. In the meantime, she slipped out of the room to give him time to freak out. Taking this time to find out how safe they really were. Also to see if anyone else us actually still living here. At least she knew his energy is hidden within these walls, she can feel the magic still protecting the castle. The only thing the Oracle would know is that she has returned to the realm, not her exact location since it us hidden from his sight.

"Father is going to kill me after this..."

Erayna sighed while exploring and waiting for Jayden to have his panic attack.....

Jayden would have agreed with her in regards to things moving too fast if he even understood what was going on... which... well he didn't. He didn't reconnect with her dreams in a meaningful way again, instead his mind was swirling through unseen places, the vision of a castle... of a different world where magical currents flowed through the realm, but also where corruption and factions prevailed.

A lot of it didn't make sense, but the incredibly intimidating and dark shadowy kingdom that had a sense of foreboding wasn't too difficult to figure out... it felt wrong, and evil. As he woke, he still felt as though he was in a daze, so he managed to pull himself up and head to the bathroom. He didn't live in splendor or anything like that, but he had what he needed. Undressing and climbing into the shower, he took his time. Water helped to clear his mind, he subconsciously using the medium to cleanse his mind.

Not knowing what she had done of course, when he turned off the water and opened the door he stepped out of the shower and at first just kind of stood there. Where had been the slightly dated drywall covered walls was now stone... and it looked like he wasn't even in his apartment.

" Ok... I have to be dreaming still."

He mumbled to himself and reaching over he pinched himself hard.

" Ow! Okay... not a dream... maybe a prank?"

He wasn't able to wrap his head around what was going on but luckily his towel and clothes had come with him so he shakily reached over and grabbing the towel he dried himself off. Seeing the new mark on his right wrist he took a few minutes to study it.

" Seriously? As if my life wasn't fucked enough."

He growled to himself though pulling his clothes on he didn't really have a panic attack just yet.

" Ok Jayden, there has to be an answer to what's going on."

He carefully made his way from the washroom out into what looked like a main bedroom but it certainly wasn't his... at least not his apartment. The stone floor continued and everything seemed to be covered in a layer of dust not to mention in a non functioning state.

" Hello?! Okay guys this shit isn't funny!"

He wasn't really one for pranks but he figured the guys had transported him to some kind of castle to prank him. He had to give them credit that this was well beyond anything that he had thought of before.

" Guys?! Come on out, VERY funny."

He was met only with silence and exploring a bit it wasn't until he opened the balcony doors that he was at a complete loss for words. slowly and carefully walking out he could see the terraces of the castle, the five walled structure matching his dreams and visions, but everything was more 'broken' than he remembered.

" what the..."

Looking up to the sky though he saw the three moons that circled this realm and with THAT he officially began to panic. Scrambling around, he tucked himself into a corner and hugging his knees he had a small mental breakdown.

" This can't be real this can't be real..."

He kept mumbling it over and over... his eyes having a sheer look of panic as he didn't exactly go running for the hills but he didn't know how to process what was happening. Unlike her where she had known where she was going and why, Jayden didn't have any of that and as such he couldn't begin to process where he was, why he was there or what this all meant!

She really did feel bad for tossing him into this world like this, without his consent or without at least explaining things to him. At the same time, what was she suppose to do? Waste time in his world with his powers going wild, doing the wait game to see what kind of attention he will cause. Also, telling a human that he is a ruler with great power and is meant to kill or do what he chooses to do with an even greater evil power, save the realm... be her mate.... yea.. as if all that will go over easy. Nope, it was just plain easier to do it this way. She can protect him better, he can actually see for himself as proof instead of calling her a lier. It really was the only way.... wasn't it? That is what she likes to tell herself anyway.

No one appeared to be living here, though she did feel that something is off about this place. There is a presence here that she didn't like and soon she went snooping about more. Using her skills to search out the shadows and see what is hidden. It wasn't until she came back to his room that she discovered the source of this presence came from his balcony. Erayna now in her full elvish form, long ears and her red hair more vibrate, leather ranger outfit that showed off quite a bit of skin. For now, she ignored him being curled up on the floor as she pulled out her dagger and threw it into the shadows. A voice screamed out and their form took place.

"Zeyamon wants to see him now!! I only came here to see what is taking you so long."

The cloaked figure was small and sounded female, the dagger that Erayna thrown was stuck in her shoulder, pinning her to the wall. Most likely with some enchantment, though it was hard to tell from the angle. Erayna walked up to her and pulled the hood off a bright pink and black haired girl with crystal like eyes. Her ears are just as long as Erayna, showing off the elvish features.

"Zeyamon can wait. How did you find me here? This place is suppose to be hidden. Not even the Oracle would know of this place.... How did you find it, let alone know we would be here?"

The little elf glanced over at Jayden, only to get slapped by Erayna to make her give full attention.

"Answer me.. Now, Lillzian.."

The little elf glared at Erayna, refusing to answer at first then gave a defeated sigh. There is no denying Erayna and honestly, the pink haired girl isn't entirely certain she will live after this.

"You used to come here when you ran away from Zeyamon. Did you forget that not only your bloodline and his can see this place, but as well as all those that served within it's walls? I was there when he was born, I was his mothers handmaiden... Of course I know of this place. I felt him come home... I had to find out for myself if what I felt was true.."

Eryana glared at the girl for longest time, no she didn't remember that tid bit. However, with those that took refuge here after the raids.. it made sense. None, the less... Eryana didn't know how true her words were, like herself, Lillzian was taken as a child and raised within the darkness. Though, she had it rougher than Eryana did and in all honesty, you can't trust a word that comes from her mouth. At the same time, she is here right now.. that has to mean something.

"I do not trust your words Lillzian. I can not allow you to go free either as you will run off to him and rat us out. For now, I will do this...."

Erayna ripped the dagger from her shoulder, spoke a few words and tapped the girls forhead... the girl dropped and Eryana caught her, dragging her towards the bed and spoke a few more words, basically turning the bed into a enchanted cage. Also stealing the girls voice so she couldn't cast any spells or scream, most importantly, unable to contact Zeyamon.

Turning towards Jayden, seeing that is in sheer panic at this point, complete confusion is overwhelming him. She has this urge to comfort him, to sooth his fears, however... He needed to come to her when he is ready.

"This is your home Jayden. This is where you were born.. You and I... we... were meant to be mated pair... to rule together...."

Erayna shook her head and smirked to herself, already trying to explain things to him after telling herself to wait for him.... She simply walked out to the balcony and looked over the land. It has grown more vibrate over the years, nothing at all what she remembers after the raids. It of course needed work.. However, only his blood and magic would bring it back to it's glory.

"I apologize for bringing you here like this. Sadly, it was the easiest way to... prove whatever I may have told you.. is truth. You wouldn't have believed me otherwise. I was sent to bring you back here.. Only.. under different orders. You were basically my bounty.. my target... But, you wear the ring and the mark of your father... I brought you to your home instead. I couldn't bring you to... to him."

She reached up to her neck and rubbed over the mark that the ring had given her. Although, she appeared to still not notice it being there, only that the marked skin kept tingling and she didn't know why.

The answer to that silent, unasked question was a resounding YES if in fact Jayden had been asked that. Then again he wasn't the most rational right then. Panicked, scared, intimidated... well it wasn't hard to imagine why. After all he had at one moment been suffering from the worst hangover in his life and the next found himself in a castle that felt familiar and yet wasn't anything like he had seen before at least not in real life.

As she re-appeared he was about ready to get his nerve up enough to call out and at least interact when she appeared to throw a dagger and a scream echoed off the stone walls.

NOPE... we are going with NOPE!

His mind screamed that as he clamped his mouth shut, his eyes warily watching her as well as the one appearing in the shadows seemed to take a more humanoid shape. Jayden had read enough books and loved his fantasy to recognize the long ears as elven, but he wasn't about to jump to ANY conclusions here either.

Silently watching their little exchange he didn't move, every muscle tense as he watched her deposit the shorter one on the bed and watched as golden glowing bars appeared vertically around the bed as well. As she started talking his eyes narrowed as his jaw set stubbornly. It was clear he wasn't buying her little apology, nor really should he. Instead he did listen carefully, but when she mentioned the ring he did glance down to it.

Strangely to him, the throbbing of the ring had stopped. The pulse that had been bothering and amping him up seemed to be calm... and he only noticed it because she had mentioned it. He still didn't quite make the connection that this strange elven ranger for all descriptions was the redheaded human he had knocked over the other day on the beach, but it was a start.

He didn't respond right away either... Jayden was in the middle of what was in his opinion the most confusing part of all of this. Yet collecting himself over a few minutes, he shook his head slightly as he seemed to try and sort out his own mind.

" So... this Zeyamon is the one who sent you after me? Who is he? who are you even? I'm nothing important, I'm just a College Sophomore for fuck sakes..."

He really didn't even know why he was babbling that... but he was trying his best. Without really giving her time to respond he stumbled to his feet, his eyes wary and narrowed... it was clear he didn't trust her, and why should he? if what she had even half told him was true he was some bounty that she was supposed to bring to someone who he wouldn't imagine was the most kind of people.

Good people didn't generally hire bounty hunters after all. To his credit he didn't go running away. He was rational to know he didn't know this area and even if he did he probably didn't stand a good chance at getting away from her, if the limp smaller elf on the bed was any real indication. He DID stare her down, though as she rubbed that area on the nape of her neck his eyes slightly widened.

While she didn't realize the rings mark was there, he certainly did!

It did surprise Eryana that he didn't just go running off in attempt to run home or something. She also didn't blame him for being afraid of her, another regret she had to live with by bringing him here. However, if he is afraid of her, then it just makes things easier... Or at least that is what she wanted to believe. If he is afraid, then she won't get the chance to get too attached to him. With him afraid, it gives her time to think of what to do next, she can't leave him here forever. If Lillzian was actually sent here, which Eryana highly doubts, then it just means more will come. Even if she wasn't sent with purpose, more will come anyway the longer Eryana waits to bring him back. The Oracle had of told her father that she is back by now. If he hasn't, it would seriously surprise her. Then again, the Oracle only speaks when spoken too as well, even then.... he speaks in riddles. Gives you what you want to hear, only to have it mean something entirely different. It is never easy to see what side the Oracle is actually on, other than his own side.

Eryana allowed him all the time Jayden needed to at least come to some sense of reality. She can only imagine what he might be going through, his thoughts were all random and full of panic, not wanting to believe that he is here. At the same time, has no choice but to believe it. Unfortunatly he doesn't know that she can hear his thoughts, feel how scared he really is despite how strong he wants to be. The ring and her mark woke up the connection between them, for a few seconds, she wondered if he can feel her too. But, with the panic racing through him, she doubts he feels much of anything other than his own heart and fears. His voice broke the silence of the room and his question caught her off guard, she didn't expect him to get straight to the point like that.

"It is more complicated than that.."

She finally spoke up after a few moments of letting the question hang there. All the while she kept rubbing at the mark on her neck, seemingly to get more irritated at the tingling it is causing.

"As I said, you were born here.. you are meant to rule these realms. Events happened when you were a child. I can not say exactly what happened as I was too young as well. You disappeared to never be seen again. Zeyamon... He.. He rules these lands now, thinking that he has gained control over both our bloodlines. Has our parents in a situation that there is no escape... Me.. Well, let's just say he keeps me very close to his side. He believes you were dead until recently. You are a threat to his very existance. You are the true ruler of these realms, you can save your parents at least I think.. my parents...."

She paused and suddenly her words were caught in her throat when thinking of her own parents. It has been years, so many years since she's cried over them and yet now the tears are threatening to escape as what little memories she has of them came back.

"Anyway... We were both meant to rule together, an alliance made the day we were born. Sadly, I am not fit to rule by your side any longer. I fear that I am too corrupted. I am unworthy to be anything more than what I am... a monster..."

If he can sense how she feels now, he will find a hint of sadness that she is fighting hard to push back down. Telling herself that she isn't a weak little girl that cries over the past. There is no point in dwelling in the past... she is a cold blooded killer, a monster and there is no changing that. Her parents are beyond saving, just as she is... Shaking her head and turning to face the bed where the little elf lays sleeping.

"You have no reason to trust me and I do not ask you trust me either.. I will leave once you learn the truth. I know you want me gone anyway. All the same, This is your home, your parents journals hide within these walls, along with all the secrets that will tell you what you are. I will answer what questions I can. Unfortunately, I am afraid I can not stay long though.. my fath.... Zeyamon will come looking for me. If he finds you... I will deal with him and you will be safe.. until you are stronger that is. I can not keep him away forever..."

Jayden looked to her expecting her to explain what she meant and yet instead she seemed to let the question linger in the air. He took the few minutes to run his hands over himself, seeming to pat himself down, mostly out of habit to ensure that he was still in one piece.

She could feel how scared he was... but that fear was also based in the unknown. After all many questions had been lingering in his mind before all of this, and of course while there were many more questions to be answered now than before, those first few questions had begun to get answers. He listened intently as she explained, and he felt how the castle seemed to attune to him as well, resonating and acknowledging that the rightful ruler had entered the keep.

Uh... huh...

He of course couldn't hide his thoughts from her, he didn't have any training in magic or mental defense. Yet the longer she remained in the keep, the harder it actually became for her to read his un-bidden thoughts. It was as though the castle was also working to protect him, though the centuries old castle hadn't been maintained for a long time now, and would take time to re-awaken.

" So... we're supposed to rule together. Forgive me if I don't believe that right off the hop."

He mused slightly, though he also didn't outright dismiss her words. Instead when she mentioned his parents he shook his head slightly.

" One of the first visions I had was during my last birthday. There were buildings on fire... and people were lined up. The women were taken to be slaves... but my father was the king... so he was executed public-ally."

He was quiet again for a few minutes... his thoughts seeming to stop racing from a fight of disbelief to acceptance, and as he considered the weight of what he was now facing, as his heart rate slowed though he began to pick up on other things... namely a deep sense of sadness. At first he was confused where it was coming from... but he realized after a moment to his own shock that it was coming from her.

" So... Eryana isn't Greek huh... it's Elvish?"

As she turned to the room and faced the bed where the smaller elf was sleeping Jayden considered her own words.

" I know... I need to learn more about this place... about this world that isn't mine but is..."

His eyes seemed to rest fully onto her then as he focused on her and added.

" I also can feel... that you are not worthy of being my Queen... though why you would think that.. I couldn't imagine either. It seems that we... both need one another."

His words weren't hollow of emotion... that was what she was used to after all wasn't it? lies, hollow promises and pleas that held no weight to them or behind them. No. Jayden's words, laden with thick emotions that weren't hidden nor even wanting them to be seemed to shatter her own emotions more openly than they had in many years.

" I ask... you to stay with me Eryana... from the little I picked up on the conversation between you and this other elf... this castle is hidden. Please... stay and let's re-discover the truth... together."

He wasn't even sure why he should do that, but well... he did and she could tell as well that he did not regret asking it of her at all. He wanted her to stay, to guide him, and besides at least this showed he didn't hate her. His trust may have been broken... but broken things were mended with time and effort.

The real question was, whether she was willing to put in that time and effort!

She didn't expect him to believe her.. hell she wouldn't believe her either. The castle will tell him the truth though. She can already feel the castle fighting against her, making it known to her that the evil she carries inside isn't welcomed here. Luckily, her blood is imprinted within these walls, just as his is which meant the castle can't keep her out. It can protect him all it wants to, protect itself if it has to.. but it can't harm or kill her. The most it can do is cage her in order to protect him. She can feel that it really wants to do that in this very second. However, when he spoke of his vision and his parents, she turned the attention back onto him.

"Public execution is what humans do to kings... Zeyamon is no human.. death is a reward in his eyes. No, trust me, our parents still live.. I no longer where they are or what has become of them. Well.. I know of my mother.. Unfortunately, I have not seen any of them since they were taken. Because of me and..."

Again, that great sadness filled just thinking about her parents and how much she has missed them. Missing the love they had for her, knowing that it is gone now. They most likely do not even know who she is anymore or that they were great elves once. Shaking her head and putting on a fake smile to hide the sudden urge to run off so he wouldn't see her crying. Being weak is for the humans, crying is a human thing to do. Monsters like her do not cry and are not weak.

"It doesn't matter anymore. It will take time, but I will do what I can to find out what happened to your parents. Your blood is still pure though, which means they can be saved. That is all that matters."


When he spoke of her being his Queen, that made her pause for a time, unsure of how to answer him. Though, it bring a genuine smile at the idea of being a Queen instead of... this thing.. she has become. Then he asked her stay with him, here in this castle with him. For some reason that made her flutter in a strange way, something she didn't expect at all... It did tell her that he is at least coming to terms with all this instead of accusing her of being a liar. Or chewing her out and demanding that she takes him home to the mortal realm.

"The truth is... I am unworthy to be Queen.. Zeyamon has made that very clear. I am nothing more than a monster that kills when and where I am told to kill. I enjoy it.. I feed off the fear of humans.. I am raised in his image... I am.. I am not what I used to be. I only know one way to rule and that is his way... I am too corrupted and can not be saved. I will stay and help you find answers... But when the time comes, I am afraid you will have to seek out a new Queen.."

Some of her words choked as she said all that out loud for the first time, that is when the first tear slipped down her cheek as well. She quickly wiped it away and turned with the intention of leaving the room. Only to stop a couple of feet of entering the room, glancing over her shoulder..

"Yes, my name is Elvish. My people were very strong and proud once... Now, there is only a small handful of us left. That one there... She used to be my sister. Zeyamon... Let's just say he never allowed us to see one another for a very long time. I know my truths. Zeyamon has told me all I ever needed to know. I do not need to re-discover them. I will stay if that is what you truly wish. But as I am sure you can sense, this castle does not like me here anymore..."

She wanted to believe him, wanted to believe that he did want her to stay and that they did need one another. Deep down she can feel the truth of his words. Sadly, years and years of being lied too, telling her own lies and much more made it difficult to believe. At the same time, she had this urge to obey him too, to trust him.... to believe in him. One of the reasons she is staying.. it was at his request.. Obeying without fully realizing it..

"Would you like me to show you around? Or do you wish to explore on your own?"

Jayden really didn't want to argue with her about whether his father was or wasn't alive. She claimed that he was but Jayden didn't see why this Zayamon would want to keep a rightful ruler alive. You didn't keep your enemies alive. Then again she seemed so confident that... well it caused him to doubt. He didn't understand the power behind his bloodline, or that even from a child he had exhibited that he would be the most powerful of his bloodline in ten generations of their family. Such was a history that he didn't know of.

He simply nodded when she said that she would find out what had happened to his parents. Jayden almost asked her not to. If indeed they were alive they were people he didn't know. They were but fragments of a memory that had been shattered upon his teleportation to the mortal realm. A realm ruled not by the power of magic or bloodlines, but rather by science and economical greed. Such thoughts prevailed for a small time, but he thought about things and finally just let out a breath.

" Do what you can, they are people I do not know any longer, this place but a homage to a boy who no longer exists."

He didn't speak of his physical form of course. He was physically alive, but much like she had been shaped by this shadow demon lord, corrupted and used in ways Jayden couldn't imagine... Jayden too was different. Raised in a world without magic his own had built and built. After all here almost everything was fed by magic. One didn't really pay much attention to it when they were born into it, but Jayden was acutely aware that the land, the very aether itself seemed to be pulling at his energies, a literal fountain of magic that had been cultivated in innocence for so long.

He doubted that Eryana had any intention of taking him back to the mortal realm... and now that he had a few moments to sort through the happenings that had already gone on around him he had recalled a mentioning of an oracle. There were far too many things that were literally over his head of comprehension for now. As she said that she wasn't worthy of being his Queen though his eyes seemed to narrow and with it for the first time she would feel his overwhelming confidence seeming to project straight into her.

" Well then..."

He mused as she paused at the door before she explained about her own people he interjected.

" Since I am so important to this realm, I believe I shall decide for myself who I will have by my side. Perhaps you are not worthy of being my Queen yet... but that simply means that you will have to earn your place."

With that he listened as she explained that the other elf was her sister, Jayden had for his entire life been alone, so he did understand her emotions of solitude in more regards than some. As she mentioned the truths and the castle Jayden smirked ever so slightly, JUST the edges of his lips lifting upwards.

" Fuck Zeyamon, and fuck this castle if you think it's going to dictate my decisions."

He could tell there were many barriers she had emotionally and truth be told while she could hear his surface thoughts, the scarred inner personality of him seemed to be hidden as well. As she asked that though he considered it, before he finally took the few steps to stand by her side.

" We will explore together. Since you know this place better than I, I will have you with me. Not before me as a guide, not behind me as a servant, but beside me, as an equal. Fair?"

He didn't know any other way of being other than himself. He wasn't confident enough just yet to dictate things, nor was he scared enough to just give up and crumple. While some may have, it seemed Jayden WAS more durable than most.

" shall we?"