Come Heaven or Hellfire (closed for Talon and Lots_Daughter)

[Lots_Daughter]

Lilias sighed, happy to have at last escaped the hustle and bustle that seemed to fill every inch of the N’Mosran family estate. Her silk gown rustled as she burst through the great door leading out into the garden, her one last place of refuge from the wedding preparations which were now in full swing. But even as Lilias breathed a sigh of relief, her heart was heavy, and she knew that the armed guards who were now her constant companions would soon find her and escort her back inside. She needed to use these few moments of privacy to think and recollect herself, to prepare herself to face the uncertain future.

The garden of the N’Mosran estate was famous in Terraq City for its intricacy and beauty, plants and flowers both exotic and native flourishing within its high stone walls. It resembled a garden of paradise to those who lingered among the emerald green foliage, but as was true of the N’Mosran Clan, looks could be deceiving. Some of the plants were poisonous to the touch or taste, while a few were even carnivorous. These plants were usually accompanied by signs warning of their dangers, but more than one foolish servant or visitor had gotten too close to a Blood Rose and been horribly lashed by its dagger-like thorns. However, to Lilias’ delight most of the flowers were perfectly harmless, and she now stepped forward into the bright sunshine and wandered to and fro among the beautiful, fragrant beds. The garden had always been a place of happiness for her, but now she was plagued by memories of the not so distant past. Memories of the man who had so often walked and sat and talked with her within these walls. Memories of the man who still had a firm grasp on her heart. Oh my beloved… If only… If only…

Lilias still clearly remembered the day she had first been introduced to Kalinthor, the eldest son and heir to the D’Argost family. She had been only twelve at the time, and he fifteen, but from the moment their eyes met something magical seemed to happen. It was as if a red hot needle had passed through their hearts and bound them together with an invisible, unbreakable thread. Lilias had known at that moment that someday she would belong to him, body and soul. Kalinthor and Lilias were often together from then on, meeting at the many balls and private parties held by the wealthy families of Terraq City. The young couple scarcely seemed to notice anyone but themselves in the room, dancing together over and over again until they were reminded by their parents that there were other young people to dance with. Their preference for each other was obvious, and it did not take long for their parents to consider uniting their families in marriage. Soon, a formal agreement of betrothal had been signed, and the young couple waited eagerly for the day they would be made man and wife.

A match between the families of D’Argost and N’Mosran caused quite a stir among the aristocracy, and not a little amusement. It was well known that the D’Argost family was descended from angels, while the N’Mosran family had traces of demonic blood in their veins. Both families were proud of their otherworldly ancestry, which blessed them with striking beauty and uncommon magical power. Lilias herself was so lovely, kind, and trusting that she unintentionally stole many hearts, her large, ruby red eyes and long ivory hair becoming the subject of many a sonnet. As the affianced couple matured, they each displayed the contrasting virtues of their sex; Kalinthor became tall, strong, and handsome, while Lilias became curvaceous, graceful, and ever more beautiful. Kalinthor, Kal as she came to call him when they were alone, soon towered over his bride to be, and the few times he had been allowed to press her to his heart, she had heard it beating as quickly as her own. They were together as often as possible, always under the watchful eye of a chaperone to see that no “premarital misconduct” took place. Only rarely had they been able to share a moment of true privacy, and even then they refrained from too much physical contact. The love and passion between them was so strong that they feared that a single kiss would consume them whole. When business or other affairs kept them apart, they would write long letters to each other, and the privacy of these letters was a great relief to the lovers, who found that they could speak more freely when no chaperone was there to check their words. Often Lilias would write “To think that a man as great as my Kal should truly love me, a worthless girl who can offer nothing but her love and devotion.”

Lilias had reasons for thinking so little of herself, for despite her beauty, kindness, and social graces, she was seen as a familial embarrassment by the N’Mosran clan. The N’Mosrans, led by their formidable matriarch Malista, had a well-earned reputation for duplicity, cunning, and political machination. As a whole they tended toward ruthlessness, and were quite willing to sacrifice others in order to improve their lot. While Malista’s eldest children, Valira and Quaron, served her well, the proud woman was disgusted by Lilias’ meekness, honesty, and persistent virtue. The girl could not bring herself to seduce and toy with the feelings of others, and was completely incapable of telling a convincing lie. Also, she was the only N’Mosran to be born with absolutely no magical ability, a shame which was not easily tolerated. Malista saw no value in her youngest child except as an object of trade, and she leapt at the chance to marry her off to Kalinthor and in one swoop improve their social standing and be rid a family misfit. Lilias knew of her mother’s feelings toward her, and it filled her with pain, but rather than rebel she instead attempted to obey her to the best of her ability, hoping that by improving her family’s social standing her own value would be increased in their eyes. Lilias longed for her family’s approval, and the knowledge that she could aid them by marrying her beloved Kalinthor made the union all the more sweet to her.

Lilias came to a bench beneath a flowering cherry tree and sat, overwhelmed by memories of when she and Kal would sit there together, their hands touching as they talked or simply enjoyed each other’s company in silence. To think that all their loving words would come to nothing. Gazing down at her left hand, the girl shuddered at the gaudy ring she now wore, so different from the beautiful yet simple ring Kalinthor had given her. It had all happened so suddenly. She had been writing a letter to Kal in her chambers, when suddenly the doors had flown open, and her mother and several servants had entered. The stunned girl was informed that her engagement to Kalinthor D’Argost had been terminated, and she was now to marry the son and heir of a family utterly unknown to her. She would later learn that this family, though rich, lacked the air of aristocracy, and they had given Malista an offer she could not refuse. Still reeling from the shock, Lilias had watched helplessly as every gift, every trinket Kalinthor had given her was taken away. She pleaded for her mother to reconsider, for her to at least keep her beloved’s letters, but Malista was unmoved, and ordered for her engagement ring to be taken as well. Lilias fought desperately to keep this one last proof of affection, but she was not strong, and soon even the precious ring was taken from her. Once every vestige of her former betrothed had been removed, the girl was left to weep in solitude, with only a single sympathetic servant to try and stay her tears. A few days later, when she was too weak to weep further, she was officially engaged to the strange man and forced to wear his ring.

Lilias had lost her rosy glow after that, the broken-hearted girl going through the motions as if she knew not what was happening around her. Invitations were sent, gifts received, the wedding dress sewn, and all without the girl’s input or attention. Then she had received a letter from Kalinthor, smuggled in by the sympathetic servant, begging her to elope with him. All the life seemed to return to her, and for an hour Lilias rushed about in exquisite happiness, beginning to pack a bag in preparation for their flight. But then the guilt her mother had instilled in her came down like a hammer, and the girl found herself in a painful conflict with her own heart. She loved Kalinthor more than anything, but how could she betray her mother, the woman who had given her life? She had always been such a disappointment to her, and now she had the chance to make her happy, to benefit her whole family. How could she abandon them for her own selfish happiness? After two hours, in which many tears were shed, Lilias wrote the shortest letter she ever had to her beloved, giving it to the servant woman to be delivered. It read simply:

Kalinthor,

I cannot. Forgive me.

Lilias

She never received a reply, and though her heart ached with pain, she prayed that Kal would understand.

A strong wind began to blow, and a shower of delicate pink petals rained upon the girl who had once been so happy. In a few days she would marry a man she did not know. And what then? She did not think that she could ever love him, but perhaps she would one day know happiness again. Cupping her hands, Lilias caught several of the pink petals, and though it pained her, she felt as though she and Kalinthor were close, as if the thread that bound their hearts had become shorter. Where was he now? What was he thinking of? Beloved… where are you?

 

[Talon]

Kalinthor D’Argost stared blankly at the sheet of parchment sitting atop his writing desk. One amongst many similarly displayed letters, but this one in particular held his gaze. A lifetime of correspondence lay spread across the table, but the letter holding his attention was most noteworthy of all. A simple yet elegant band of gold lay at its center, holding the letter open at the crease. Kal was reclining back in the chair that sat before the desk, his arms folded across his chest and his legs kicked out in front of him. He was staring at the note as if trying to banish it from existence, simultaneously turning back the sands of time to undo the actions that forced the necessity of such a letter. He had no such power within him, no one but the gods could force such an outcome, and they would not bother to intervene in what they would consider a trivial matter. His blood was divine, he was connected to the gods through lineage, and he knew better than to call on them for matters of the heart.

Kal erupted from the chair suddenly in violent movement, his hands gripping the edge of the desk until his knuckles turned white. The muscles of his arms flexed powerfully as he flipped the desk into the air to send it flying end over end to crash into the wall behind it. Letters were scattered across the white marble tile under his feet, the ring bouncing a few times before rolling across the floor and coming to rest at his feet. Kal crouched down to retrieve it, a few letters still slowly floating through the air around him before joining their counterparts on the floor. He closed his hand around the ring of betrothal, the metal cutting into his flesh as he clenched his fist around it. He stood up straight, casting his eyes across the random piles of letters in search of the one. It lay farthest from him and well apart from the others as if to portray how different this letter was from the others. He walked over to it, leaning down to snatch it from the floor and fold it once along its crease before stuffing it into his jacket.

How had it come to this? Why now, when he was so close to eternal happiness? Was he not favored by the gods? Kal had many questions running through his mind, yet he could find no answers to any of them. He moved across the room, leaving the letters where they lay, and jerked open the doors of his wardrobe. He pulled his sword and scabbard from a hook on the inside of the left door, a well made and ornate weapon thrice marked by the seal of House D’Argost on the hilt, blade and scabbard. It had belonged to his grandfather, passed down to Kal upon his death; a noble weapon with centuries of service in the name of his family. Kal buckled the scabbard belt around his waist, the sword hanging from his left hip for a right handed draw. It was then that Kal noticed the small piece of pink string that was tied around the sword’s pommel; a token of good luck he had received from his betrothed during the last tournament he had participated in.

There had been many tournaments throughout the years, many victories won in the honor of her name. Every time he fought in sport he dedicated the match to her, marked by a cloth around his upper arm in the colors of her personal banner. His victories had been many, and over the course of time he had come to be known as the most skilled swordsman in Terraq City. He credited Lilias for all of his achievements, her love and confidence had granted him the will to achieve. That was all gone now, and if her family had their way her colors would never grace him again.

Kal pushed the memories from his mind. For a moment, while deep in reflection of times passed, he had once again felt the light of her love filling him. Now, as the memories faded he felt only the burning desire for vengeance and the pain of rejection. He slammed the doors of his wardrobe shut and spun on his heel, crossing the room to exit through the ornate doorway leading to the estate grounds. The Estate of House D’Argost sat on a large plot of land in the city’s noble district, most notable for its excellent stables that produced the best horses in Terraq. Kal's stride was long, his determined pace carrying him quickly away from his rooms and towards the main hall in the center of the compound. Kal had been granted the D’Argost Tower to use as his quarters after his eighteenth birth year, the birthright of all first born sons of House D’Argost and a symbol of his family’s financial success. The tower had been constructed near the westernmost boundary wall, a white tower that stretched several hundred feet up into the sky above the estate. Kal had gone on many strolls around the base of that tower with his beloved Lilias, holding hands as they walked silently along, counting the stars that made up the night sky.

Kal once again cleared his mind of the fond memories of his time with Lilias. She had chosen another, cast off his betrothal ring and refused his request to elope with him. How could she have done it? She might as well have cut out his heart, and as it was it nearly felt like she had. He could never have cast her off as easily as she did him. Not in a million years, not under threat of death. Not even the gods could hold him from her, but yet her family assumed that he could just be rejected in such a manner? That he would accept their refusal to take her hand only a few weeks from the ceremonial vows? Kal smirked at the thought. Lilia’s family obviously never bothered to learn the strength of his character, the power of his desire. They had made themselves enemies of the most renowned swordsman in Terraq, Kalinthor D’Argost…Celestial Scion of the House D’Argost, soon to be husband of Lilias N’Mosran. Come heaven or hellfire, she would be his bride.

 

[Lots_Daughter]

"Lady Lilias! Lady Lilias!"

Lilias awoke with a start, finding herself being shaken by Meril, the kind-hearted servant woman who was now her closest companion and confidant. The girl was still sitting beneath the cherry tree, but the sky had darkened with clouds, and the strong winds had stripped all the snowy pink petals from its blossoms. Sitting up with a start, Lilias asked "Oh Meril, have I been asleep?"
"I'll say y'have, milady! I'd to shake blasted hard to wake ye up. Come child, a storm's comin', and ye've been asked for."
Helping Lilias to her feet, Meril looked up at sky with wary brown eyes, her plain yet good natured face grave as she whispered to herself "Tis a bad sign... a bad sign..."

Arm-in-arm with the older woman, Lilias allowed herself to be led inside and out of the harsh wind, casting one last look at the darkening storm clouds before the great wooden doors were shut behind her. The sky had been so clear and sunny only a short time ago. What had caused this sudden change in the elements? Was it, as Meril seemed to think, a bad omen?

But Lilias had not much time to think of this before they had entered an inner chamber and were suddenly surrounded by servants and wedding planners, all of them asking questions or presenting various items for her approval. Meril did her best to keep the crowd back, but the two of them were very nearly overwhelmed when a familiar voice shouted "Keep back, all of you! The Lady is wanted."

Instantly the clamoring throng parted, revealing the tall, curvy, commanding form of Valira N'Mosran, eldest daughter and heir to the N'Mosran estate. Valira was very much her mother's child. Ruthless, exacting, and capable of endless levels of deception, she had a well-deserved reputation for cruelty against servants who displeased her, and was therefore obeyed, no matter how unreasonable her demands may be. Her dark, forbidding beauty, accentuated by gowns which left little to the imagination, had been the downfall of many a man, but even her husband was too frightened of her to object to her numerous affairs. Casting an imperious glance upon the company, Valira roughly took Lilias by the arm and dragged her toward the main staircase, turning briefly to one of the armed guards to say "The sheep-faced man on the left; have him flogged."

Lilias at once tried to intervene, getting so far as "But Sister-" before she found herself being dragged up the stairs, Meril following quietly behind the two women as Valira hissed "Where have you been, you little toad? Do you not care that this is your last fitting? Do you wish to disgrace us?"
"No, I-"
"Save your excuses. I have better things to do than babysit a weakling like yourself. If this groom of yours were not so wealthy, you could have been married in rags for all I care."
Valira's tongue cut like a razor when she spoke, and at this moment she relieved her annoyance by adding something which she knew would cause her sister pain. "If it were up to you, we would all be beholden to that saint-blooded fool Kalinthor and his ilk. Thank fortune Mother had some sense!"
Sure enough, the mention of the man she loved and could no longer marry brought tears to the girl's eyes, but at this point she had not enough breath to sob or utter an objection.

Reaching the landing where the family's private quarters were held, the elder sister continued to pull the younger along until they had reached Lilias' chambers, throwing open the door and shoving the panting girl inside. Several female servants were there, ready to serve in any way they could, as well as the high-priced seamstress who was to oversee the fitting. before she knew what was happening, Lilias was seized, stripped, and hurredly clothed in a ruffled gown of burgundy and red silk. Forced to stand perfectly still, the seamstress carefully inspected the fit and declared it was perfect, and the girl was promptly forced into a chair so her hair could be attended to. The hairstyle was simple enough, Lilias' long, silky, ivory locks left unbound except for a small bun on each side of her head, but around these buns were attached the large, batwing-shaped hair onaments that all N'Mosran brides were to wear. They were meant to remind the world of the N'Mosrans' proud demonic heritage.

When all was ready, Lilias was placed before a long mirror to see what she would look like on her wedding day. The girl looked at herself in silence, her ruby red eyes taking in every detail of the dress and ornaments in which she would soon marry an utter stranger. Though the workmanship was exquisite, Lilias could not but feel her heart sink with sadness and disappointment. She had always dreamed of marrying Kal in a pure white dress, a wreath of white roses in her hair. She could see it all now, imagining herself looking up into her beloved's eyes through a sheer gossamer veil. She could see the happiness, the warmth, the love in his eyes as he gently pulled the veil back from her face, the two of them closing their eyes as they prepared to seal their union with a kiss...

A flash of lightning and a roll of thunder awoke Lilias from her bittersweet imaginings, and she only then noticed the heavy rain beating upon the windows, like an angry spirit demanding entry. Suddenly the women heard a loud commotion downstairs. A crash, the sound of steel against steel, frightened screams and cries of pain, and then a man's footsteps running up the stairs. The closer the steps came, the more frightened the women grew, Lilias' own heart beginning to beat wildly with faceless terror. Clutching Meril's hand, the girl turned to find her sister, but Valira had left as soon as her burden had been deposited. Unable to move, unable to think, Lilias stood frozen in place, staring towards the door and praying to the gods that all would be well.

http://hostingb.hotchyx.com/adult-image-hosting-04/998910.jpg

 

[Talon]

Kal stormed the central black marble staircase leading up to the second floor of the N’Mosran Estate house, taking the steps two at a time in his haste to reach the top. He was wearing what had been Lilias’ favorite suit, a snow white suit with a high collared jacket, gold embroidery around the edges. The jacket was unbuttoned to the waist for ease of movement, long coat tails flowing behind as he ran. His grandfather’s sword was free from its scabbard, held out in front of him in a defensive posture, the blade already red with the blood of those that had attempted to bar his path, N’mosran family guards. He had dispatched them easily enough, a slash across the upper left arm of his jacket the only hit they had managed to score. There had been six guards at the front gates, and with all of them recognizing his face there had been no chance of him slipping in by bribe or words alone. Kal had attempted to only maim and not kill as many of them as possible, his anger was with Lilias’ and her family, not hired armsmen. He was sure that a few would not recover from their wounds, but he had given them the option to let him pass without struggle, a course of action they ultimately denied.

Kal reached the top of the stairway, turning to his left as a few guards approached from the side. The first was arrogant and sloppy, thrusting forward in an attempt to impale Kal through the middle as he ran up. Kal easily sidestepped the thrust, slashing his blade across the man’s ribs as his momentum carried him forward. The second approached with more caution, a quick slash meant to test Kal’s defense. Kal stepped back and launched a powerful two-handed counter-slash that sent the guard’s sword flying from his hand as the blades met. He stepped forward, the tip of his blade resting against the guard’s throat. “Yield.” The guard nodded and swallowed carefully, turning to run down the stairs in a hurry to escape the young man’s wrath. The other guard was attempting to crawl away from him, clutching his injured side, no longer a threat.

Kal stormed through the hallway that led to his Lilias’ room, blade still held at the ready in front of him. The hallway was decorated in a very dark motif; he passed paintings hung on the walls beside him that suggested violence, sex or both. How had his sweet, innocent Lilias come from the same line as these…animals. She was nothing like the other members of her family, a fact that Kal was eternally grateful for. Lilias’ older sister, Valira, would lay with any man she thought could gain her an advantage and many more otherwise. Valira had attempted to seduce him during his eighteenth birth year celebration, simply for the fact that she had wanted to hurt her younger sister. It was an offer Kal had not accepted; his love for Lilias was pure, true and everlasting, not something to be discarded for a simple roll in the hay. Apparently Lilias no longer felt the same.

It had alarmed him to learn that his family was rather happy that she had broken off the betrothal, relieved even. Apparently his mother and father had soured on the union several years ago, but out of respect for their eldest son’s wishes they had held their tongues. This news came as a shock to him; they had never betrayed their feelings before that morning when he had come storming into the Main Hall. Kal demanding retribution, his parents attempting to explain to him how it might not be such a bad thing, about how they knew of a beautiful young noble who had just come of age that would be perfect for him. He stalked from the room before they could finish extolling this woman’s virtues; she was not Lilias, it was as simple as that. He could literally never love another woman, he didn’t have the capacity. His parents had refused to take action against the N’Mosrans, forbidding him to do the same, but Kal couldn’t let it rest there. Anger and vengeance drove him to the gates of the N’mosran estate, but love is what drove him toward Lilias’ chambers.

Kal finally reached the large set of double-doors that led to Lilias’ chambers, stopping before them to compose himself for a moment. Here it was…the culmination of the last few days’ worth of events that sent his world spinning. The moment he would be reunited once and for forever with the keeper of his heart, the everlasting love of his life and the goddess of his dreams. Lilias. Kal burst into the room, a swift kick sent the two doors ahead of him flying open violently to announce his entrance. He strode into the room, stopping just inside the entrance to survey the occupants. His sword was in his right hand held in a relaxed position by his side, the red on the blade revealing its recent use. He turned to face Lilias, a timely flash of lightning illuminating the grim expression on his face as his eyes slid right over the servant beside her and locked onto hers. It was the gaze of a predator that had located its prey, mesmerizing it with a look as it stalked them. His eyes slowly traveled down her form, taking in the ceremonial dress she wore. When he spoke his voice was cold, hard as steel. “Well, well…I am glad to find that you are not bed ridden in your time of mourning. In fact, it would seem that you have already forgotten me…all dressed up for your new beloved. A fortunate man indeed…is he here?” He accented his question with a flick of his blade. “I must meet this man that has stolen your heart from me.”

 

[Lots_Daughter]

Lilias' could hear the swift, heavy footsteps racing down the hall, and instinct told her that this unknown entity was after her, that soon her doors would fly open and she would see... what? Or who? Something about the approaching steps seemed so familiar, as if she had heard them before. Yes, in the arena... The banners flying, the crowds shouting, the sound of steel upon steel, sword blades flashing under the glaring sun. Lilias remembered the fear, love, and faith that throbbed in her heart as she watched the melee, praying for victory for the man she loved, the man who wore her colors, her betrothed. No... It could not be true. Her lovesick heart was making her imagine things, placing another man's feet in the boots which now paused before her doors. Lilias could feel her blood chill within her veins, and the frightened women around her gathered into a trembling mass as they waited for the man or beast to enter.

With a tremendous crash the doors were struck violently asunder, one hanging from its hinges as a tall, armed figure entered. The women screamed and made hurried prayers for deliverance, believing that this awful being had come for them. But Lilias knew what he had come for, and as a flash of lightning illuminated his face, she found herself looking into the eyes of her former betrothed, her beloved, her Kal. Where once the sight of him had filled her heart with joy, the drastic change in his stance and expression now gripped her with terror. Never before had she felt fear when Kal was near her, her heart and mind secure in the knowledge of his love and protection. But now he stood before her with grimly-set features, his eyes blazing with a preditory ferver which made her doubt his sanity. With his sword drawn, smeared with the blood of those who dared to bar his way, the meaning was all too clear, and the knowledge of her imminent death at her lover's hand made all the blood drain away from her.

With the room spinning around her, Lilias had only time to whisper "Kal..." before she stumbled backwards, colliding with the mirror behind her. Meril caught the girl before she could fall, but the mirror crashed onto the floor and shattered, silver shards glittering upon black marble as lightning once more filled the sky. Lilias never fully lost conciousness, her eyes open and her senses reeling as she heard her beloved speak. His voice was so cold, so hard, so different from the Kal she knew, and his words pained her beyond anything her sister could say. Once certain that her mistress could stand on her own, Meril allowed the girl to lean against a desk before turning indignant eyes to the intruder. She liked Kalinthor, and supported his engagement to Lilias, but she also had very strict ideas as to how people of rank should act, and she feared that Kal would do himself or others harm in his half-mad state. "The gentleman isn't 'ere, Sir," she announced, her brown eyes compassionate yet firm "and neither should ye be! Lady N'Mosran 'as forbidden ye from the 'ouse, and gods bless ye if she find's out yer 'ere! Ye best leave 'ere she gets 'old of ye."

Lilias continued to lean against her desk, the desk on which she had written so many letters of love, and one of pain. Weak, stunned, and certain that her lover intended her death, she looked at Kal with large, pleading eyes, her soft voice trembling with emotion as she whispered "Kal... please... have mercy..." Her left hand rested upon her bosom, the gaudy ring of her current fiance glittering like some obscene bauble, an insult to true love and happiness.

 

[Talon]

Kal’s face remained grimly calm, the emotion in his voice not registering on his features. He lifted the blade to point at the servant, Meril, his voice roaring like the thunder outside her windows. “I have no quarrel with you good woman, I suggest you hold your tongue before that changes.” His sword arm fell back to his side as he took a few steps towards Lilias. “And you…you besiege me for mercy while wearing the trappings of another man’s love on your finger? Mercy? I have none left in me…” He retrieved the betrothal ring he had given her from inside his jacket, tossing it onto the desk beside her. “Does that one not suit you anymore? For it suited the Lilias I remember…but she would also not have worn the ridiculous thing the woman in front of me is now. Perhaps then this Lilias of my memories no longer draws breath? Replaced by some evil doppelganger masquerading as my love.” He pulled the last letter she had sent him from his jacket next, tossing it onto the desk beside the ring. The grim look on his face had started to fade, replaced with the sadness that tinged his voice. “The Lilias I loved would never write a letter like that…ripping my heart from my chest.” Kal suddenly turned away from her, head lowered as he considered his next course of action.

When he turned around again his face was blank once more, his brow drawn and mouth set in a look of determination. He looked to the servant again, pointing his sword at her. “You…fetch Lilias’ things…whatever she treasures most in this damnable place…no more than we can carry. I know that she has confidence in your trustworthiness, so you will be coming with us. She will need someone to look after her.” Kal gestured with his sword again harshly. “Move woman!” He turned to face Lilias, lowering his sword once more. “And you…I will not allow this wedding to take place! I will not allow it! You are mine, as I am yours. We will be married as promised; I will not allow another outcome. I will carry you from this place over my shoulder if I have to…but you will belong to no other.' He suddenly closed the distance between them, leaning down to crush his lips against hers as he pulled her into his chest.

 

[Lots_Daughter]

Meril stood still as Kalinthor pointed his sword at her, her features stern yet resigned as he commanded in no uncertain terms that she hold her tongue. The older woman knew something about the temperament of Kal and men in general, and she could see that to resist or defy him while he was in such a passion would only increase his wrath and the likelihood of bloodshed. Providing that he did not harm her mistress, she would follow his orders.

As he came closer, Lilias instinctively tried to back away, but she was now pressed against the wall and unable to escape his fiery, accusitory gaze. His words cut deeply into an already bleeding heart, and her eyes filled with tears as he produced the ring she had so cherished, along with the fatal letter she had forced herself to write. Lilias could feel the anger, the pain, the feeling of betrayal in his voice, and she found herself unable to look him in the face, her beautiful eyes sparkling like rubies with restrained emotion. If only he knew what she suffered. If only she were free to declare her eternal and unwavering love for him. If only she could throw away her current betrothed's trinket and once again wear the ring of the only man she could see as her husband. Her soul screamed and struggled against its fragile prison, imploring her to proclaim her love for all to hear, to embrace and comfort her beloved who now suffered so. But to do so would give him hope, and while her mother's interests lay elsewhere, while she was betrothed to another, hope would only torture and endanger him. Lilias had prayed to the gods that she and Kal would forget their love, that the pain they suffered would be but a distant memory, but it was impossible. While she would have willingly sacrificed herself upon the altar of love, Kal would pull her from the fire before it could consume her.

As Kalinthor turned away, Lilias prepared herself to die. Perhaps it would be better this way, dying in her beloved's arms rather than weeping in the bed of another. But when he turned back he was once again stony, determined, and inflexible, and it was only when he ordered Meril to pack her things that she realized what his intentions were. Lilias opened her mouth to protest, but the servant woman gave her a quick gesture to be calm and silent. Meril obeyed Kal's command a began hurredly packing a small bag, the very bag her mistress had initially considered eloping with. Along with clothing and other necessities she packed little but the few objects she knew Lilias treasured most. Perhaps the older woman was glad that an elopement of some kind would finally take place between the young couple, but she kept her emotions and tongue in check, eventually waiting in silence with the light bag and a cloak to shield Lilias from the storm.

Lilias meanwhile had forced herself to look into her beloved's eyes, trying to silently communicate her distress at his plan. Her mother, her betrothed and his family, all would be out for Kal's blood the moment he carried her away with him. She was not worth the sacrifice, but before she could utter a word Lilias suddenly found herself pressed to his chest, their lips locked in a determined, almost brutal kiss.The girl froze, her eyes wide as she realized what was happening. Her first kiss. Their first kiss. Not one of gentleness and bliss as she had always imagined, but one of determined, unyielding passion and possession. Her entire body seemed to tingle with strange and forbidden longings, cravings to meld her body with his, but she remained perfectly still and silent, a single tear trickling down her cheek.

When their lips at last parted, Lilias gasped softly for breath, her cheeks and lips flushed, only increasing her beauty. She felt weak and full of swirling, contrasting emotions, but once again she made a little movement of resistance, trying to pull back from his possessive grasp while pleading with her eyes and hopeless whisper. "Oh, Kal... Kal... you know not what you do..."

 

[Talon]

Kal pulled back from the kiss, his burning desire somewhat lessened but it had done nothing to quell his anger. “Don’t speak Lilias…don’t ruin the moment.” He cast another hard look down at her, she could see the fires of both his thirst for revenge and his love for her burning in his golden eyes; golden eyes that marked the celestial blood flowing through his veins. He turned to the desk, pulling both the ring and the letter from the top and stuffing them back into his jacket. Meril had returned to their side with Lilias’ bag, Kal taking it from her and slinging it over his shoulder. “You have been a friend to Lilias through dark times, and for that I thank you. If you wish to continue in your service to her you can come with us, you will be welcome in my home. But I cannot in good concise force you to come against your will. If you choose to stay here, may the gods watch over you.” Kal turned, facing Lilias and kneeling down in front of her. He reached his left arm around her legs and over the backs of her thighs, lifting her as he stood. She was so light that he stood without stumble, the powerful muscles in his arm pulling her thighs down against his chest. She was forced to bend in the middle over his shoulder by the movement, her face against his back next to her bag and her hair flowing down behind him. “If a life with me is such a horrible thought that you must be carried to it, so be it.” She was draped over his left shoulder, leaving his sword arm free for their escape. He looked to Meril one last time. “Follow if you wish good woman.”

He moved through the hall leading from her room to the main staircase, Lilias bouncing on his shoulder along the way. A figure appeared in the hallway opposite them on the other side of the stairs, running towards them desperately. Kal recognized the figure as he got closer; Quaron N’Mosran, Lilias’ older brother. Quaron was holding a sword in his right hand, steel bared. They could hear the rapid clicks of his boot heels on the marble tile as quickly closed the distance between them. Kal spoke. “Your brother approaches…he is armed.” Gripping her thighs tightly Kal stopped walking forwards, turning to the side to put his right shoulder forward, Lilias’ body shielded by his. He raised his sword. “Stay still while I am fighting, do not shift your weight or you will throw off my balance.” Her brother finally came to a stop before them, also raising his sword. “D’Argost…I demand that you put down my sister at once! You have soiled the honor of both your house and my own this day, I demand an honor duel to settle the debt.” Kal remained motionless, face expressionless. He was no stranger to Quaron N’Mosran or his blade, they had faced each other in several tournaments, every match won by the young Lord D’Argost. Quaron had never cared for his sister’s celestial-blooded future husband, but his dislike had deepened with every loss until it was burning hatred. It was with this hatred that he now faced Kal, an arrogant sneer on his face. Clearly the young N’Mosran thought the burden of his sister would hamper his opponent’s skill enough to give him the upper hand.

Kal shook his head slowly. “Don’t do this N’mosran…it will not end well.” Quaron laughed, he had been an arrogant fool for as long as Kal had known him, and flourished his sword through the air before him. “You were never good enough for my sister D’Argost, and now I will end her suffering by snuffing it out at the source!” Quaron lunged forward, a quick downward thrust that Kal easily parried. The N’Mosran began pacing in a circle around Kal, a movement he mirrored while keeping his right shoulder forward and Lilias behind him. Quaron lunged forward again, a low thrust this time that was easily turned aside. The two men both stepped forward simultaneously, their blades coming together overhead. A series of rapid attacks followed, almost too fast for the eye to follow, Quaron desperately attacking in an attempt to overwhelm his greater opponent. Kal’s defense was perfect and his blade intercepted his opponent’s strikes as if he knew where they were aimed before they were even made. Quaron was a master, no doubt he had read countless manuscripts detailing countless styles and maneuvers; Kal was a prodigy, a once in a lifetime talent that had been honed by the greatest masters of the realm.

The match continued for several minutes, Quaron throwing himself against Kal’s defensive posture like waves crashing against a seawall, combatants circling each other in search of an opening. The duel was ended abruptly as Kal launched his first and only attack, a thrust which put the tip of his blade above Quaron’s heart, not yet piercing his skin but sitting there in silent threat. Kal pushed forward, Quaron moving back to avoid being impaled until he tripped over his feet and fell backwards to the ground. Kal towered over her brother, his blade moving up to rest against Quaron’s neck. “Your skill has been tried, N’Mosran…and you have been found wanting.” Kal poked the tip of the blade into his flesh just enough to draw blood. “If you follow us, I cannot guarantee such a favorable outcome for you the next time our blades meet.” Kal pulled his blade away, turning to make his way to the stairs leading out of the estate, Lilias bouncing against his shoulder with every step.

Kal walked through the entranceway to the D’Argost Tower, making his way up the spiral staircase at its center until he reached his room near the middle of the tower’s great height. After the confrontation with her brother it had been an uneventful trip from her family’s estate to his. He carried her on his shoulder the entire way, a rather embarrassing trip for her, but after seeing the look on Kal’s face no one had bothered them along the way. Once inside his quarters he lowered her to the ground, finally placing her back on her feet. “This is where you belong my love, and this is where you will stay. I want to hear no more talk of your family’s feelings or their desires regarding your marriage…I want to hear yours, from the heart.” He reached into his jacket to produce the ring he had once given her. “Wear my ring once again and pledge to me your love and I shall make you my bride, now and forever.”

 

[Lots_Daughter]

Lilias bit her lip as Kal told her not to speak, afraid that one more word would enrage him to the point of violence. His golden eyes held such power over her, they always had, and now she found herself once more mesmerized into silence. She watched as Kal took the bag Meril had packed and slung it over his shoulder, and as he invited the older woman to join them, Lilias looked at her pleadingly, silently begging her to follow them. The girl had been to the D'Argost tower many times, but she knew not what awaited her there now, and she needed Meril's steady, loyal, compassionate presence to give her strength. Meril had planned to follow her mistress whether Kalinthor had welcomed her or not, and at his invitation and Lilias' wordless entreaty, she merely nodded in reply.

In the next moment Kal had knelt before his former bride to be and wrapped his arm around her legs, startling and confusing her until he stood, lifting her upon his strong shoulder. She let out a little cry of fear as she found herself high above the floor, her upper torso upside-down and with nothing to secure her but Kal's arm, which held her in a strong, possessive grip. Should he ever lose his hold she would fall right upon her head, and the strange angle from which she now viewed the world frightened and unnerved her terribly. Lilias' fear of being dropped kept her still as Kal carried her out into the hallway, Meril following while the women left behind could do nothing but watch the angel-blooded warrior carry off his prize. Though Lilias was afraid of what awaited her, she was even more frightened of drawing attention to herself and thus putting her beloved in danger. Therefore instead of crying out or weeping, the girl merely whispered to her captor, unable to utter anything but "Kal... Oh, Kal please... please..." and it was unclear whether she was begging for him not to drop her, or pleading for him to release her.

Lilias closed her eyes as she was carried, her full breasts pressing against Kal's back and cushioning some of the jolt which came with his every step. Suddenly she heard footsteps running toward them, and to her horror she recognized the sound of her brother Quaron hurredly approaching. Her heart was seized with terror, both for Kal's safety and for that of her brother, knowing that their rivalry and her current situation would guarantee that the two men would come to blows. Whimpering, Lilias obeyed her lover and remained still and silent, frightened of in any way endangering Kal by distracting him or throwing off his balance. She also had a healthy fear of being wounded herself, but this was nothing compared to the fear she had for Kal and Quaron's safety. Quaron had always been more loving and indulgent to her than her mother or sister, and for a moment Lilias considered pleading to him directly to left Kalinthor pass unharmed, but challanges were exchanged and the melee began before she ever got the chance.

Much of the battle was lost to the airborn captive, the odd angle of her vision and her sheer terror making it all seem like a whirlwind of clashing steel. She remained perfectly still, her delicate hands gripping Kal's jacket tightly without restricting his movement. Meril stood far back, terrified for her mistress' safety, but she had faith in Kalinthor's martial prowess, and knew that he would not let any harm come to her. She and Lilias both prayed unceasingly to the gods that neither man would be seriously wounded or killed. The girl let out a tiny cry as her brother was defeated, whispering desperately for her beloved to spare him. Kal did so, and as they once more set out on their journey towards his home, Lilias caught a glimpse of Quaron's usually calm face twisted by rage and humiliation.

The rest of the journey to the D'Argost tower was uneventful. Now and then a passerby would stare at the unusual sight, somewhat humiliating the helpless girl, and occasionally a sob would escape from her lips, Meril attempting to comfort her as best as she could. Finally they had arrived on the D'Argost property, but Kal insisted on carrying her up the staircase until they were in the middle of the great white tower, within his richly yet tastefully furnished quarters. Meril lingered outside the door, believing that the couple should have some privacy, yet unwilling to be too far from her mistress until she knew that all was well. When Lilias was at last placed upon her feet again, the sudden change of position made her dizzy, but though she swayed a little she quickly found her bearings, looking up at her former betrothed with eyes full of fear and uncertainty. What would he do now that she was in his world?

As Kalinthor spoke, once again revealing the ring she had so often kissed in private, the tears again welled up within Lilias' ruby eyes, and this time she did not check them. Turning away from her one and only love, the girl poured out her heart, unable to restrain her emotions for one moment longer. "Oh, Kal... Why could you not forget me, for your sake if not my own? What have you done? You know that I have never loved and can never love any man but you. You must know it. If you only saw the serpent now coiled around your throat, you would not accuse me of cruelty. My family, the family of my... of my betrothed... now they will be hungry for vengeance. Beloved, they will want your life for this outrage! I thought I would protect you by yielding to my mother's wishes, and if you knew what I have suffered, perhaps you would pity the hapless bride before you. But there is more. For all of my life, I have brought my family nothing but shame. I owe Mother my life. How could I refuse to obey her when this is the one chance I have to make my family happy? How can I believe that my own happiness is more important than theirs?"

Slowly the girl turned to face him, pearly tears trickling down her cheeks, her eyes sparkling like priceless gems. "I have prayed to the gods over and over again that they will cause us to forget our love, that we may live in happy ignorance of what we have lost. But they will not listen to one such as I, a mere girl of tainted blood. All that we touch turns to ruin, and I cannot bear the thought of you suffering for my sake. Treat me as a venomous serpent. Flee from me, or let me flee from you. My beloved angel, I am not worth the sacrifice..."

 

[Talon]

Kal remained calm while she attempted to explain her side of the situation, his face registering no emotional response at her recommendation and plea for him to leave her. He shook his head when she finally finished, reaching out to grip her shoulders. His grip was forceful in a protective manner, as if he were ready to pull her from the path of a charging animal. His eyes focused once more on hers, the golden orbs still burning intensely. “This is not you talking Lilias…this is your mother! She has fed you this false script line for line until even you attest to its authenticity!” Kal leaned in towards her, placing his forehead against her own and staring into her eyes. “Let them come in their vengeance. Let them bring the fires of hell to my gates to seek retribution for my actions. I have only one thing in this world Lilias…you…and I will not have it taken from me by the threat of violence. It is they that should fear me, I am no babe to be cast aside and forgotten; I am a lion!” Kal pulled away from her, his lips curling in a momentary snarl that quickly faded. “You are mine Lilias, as I am yours. I will not allow you to throw your life away with some half-lord who only wishes your hand so that he might elevate his own. If I must keep you here by force than that is how it shall be, no matter how much it pains me to do so.” Kal took a few steps back, his eyes reflecting painfully in her own. “I will show Meril to your room in the tower. So long as you wear another man’s promise on your finger you are not fit to share mine. Your ring will be waiting for you here, should you decide to once again wear it.”

He started to turn and walk out of the room, stopping halfway and turning back to her. “The whole time we were apart I wished for nothing more than to be reunited with you…to hold you again in my arms. Yet at this same moment you were praying to the gods that such a reunion would never take place? That I would simply forget you and move on?” Kal shook his head, his shoulders shaking as if barely containing the rage that the idea brought to his mind. “Love is a gift from gods to mortals Lilias…a gift you so willingly threw back in their faces, even going so far as to beg them to take it back from you! All for some perceived duty to your mother, to your family. Your mother would just as soon throw you off a bridge as see you happy! She cares nothing for your heart, only the beauty of your face and how many gold pieces it will fetch. You are not some prize for your family to auction, a trinket to pass along to whomever they please. I will not allow it!” Kal yelled the last sentence, his voice booming along the high ceiling of his quarters. He took a few breaths, his calm demeanor slowly returning. Kal nodded to the stairwell. “It is painfully obvious that your family is of more importance to you than I am, or was…something I’ll be sure not to forget again. I will show Meril your rooms.” And with that he turned and finished his walk towards the door, slamming it shut behind him.

The tower had many levels, each adorned with different decoration from all manner of sources. The room Kal designated for Lilias was two floors above his own, a room that he had let her decorate after he inherited the tower. He had told her that he wanted a room to go to in his home that would remind him of her when they were apart, and he had given her free reign to choose the décor. Since she initially designed the layout Kal has used the room to store all manner of mementos to remind him of his love. A glass display with all of her favorite flowers magically preserved inside sat against one wall, a desk opposite the display held all of their correspondence throughout the years, apparently put here after a servant retrieved them from Kal’s floor. There was a tasteful painting of her set behind the large bed in the center of the room. Nailed into the wall on each side of the picture frame were the armbands he had worn during his tournament matches to display her colors. To the left of the bed was a long window providing a spectacular view of the city from high above. Kal had not returned after leaving her in his room, instead it was Meril that returned to show her to her new quarters.

 

[Lots_Daughter]

Lilias did not gasp or attempt to struggle as Kal clasped her shoulders in his strong, possessive grip, as if trying to keep her from flying away like a captured bird. His golden eyes looked piercingly down into her own, her soul trembling as they smoldered like heavenly fire fueled by an all-consuming love and thirst for vengeance. Kal’s eyes captivated the girl, causing her to remain speechless as his lips poured all of his love, anger, betrayal, and unshakable determination into her ears. How awful his words were, crushing her heart and sapping her strength from her body, until she felt barely capable of standing on her own. How she longed to still his cruel accusations and appeal to him with reason, but reason was powerless against passion such as his. No matter how much danger he was incurring by keeping her captive, he would keep her with him until they pried her from his cold, dead grasp. But what pained her most was his belief that her love and faithfulness were not as ardent and enduring as his own, and once again tears began to trickle down her smooth, pale cheeks. Even as she suffered, Lilias clearly felt her beloved’s inner agony, and how she longed to be able to comfort and assure him as she had in the past. She knew that her family cared little for her, with the exception of Quaron, but her carefully ingrained loyalty to them made her ache all the more under Kal’s merciless tongue. How she had longed to escape the dark N’Mosran estate and live forever more in the light, love, and happiness of the D’Argost tower, with her darling Kal by her side. But again and again the knowledge that her captivity was shaming her family spoiled her happy visions, and when he at last stormed from the room and slammed the door behind him, Lilias could do nothing but sink into a nearby chair and sob passionately.

Meril had been outside of the door as the couple’s interview took place, and while she had done her best not to eavesdrop, she could not help but catch certain words and phrases and the tone in which they were spoken. As Kalinthor came out of his room to coldly show her where Lilias’ quarters were, the loyal servant woman could not help but look at him in silent admonition. After Kal showed her the room and turned to leave, Meril very nearly said something to chastise him, but she held her tongue, knowing that harmony between the two lovers would not come about by a harsh reproof. It was a lovely room, perfectly in keeping with Lilias’ gentle, feminine temperament. Decorated in soft, pastel shades which differed strikingly from the dark, sinister décor of the N’Mosran estate, there was a feeling of softness and grace in the furnishings that spoke of a man’s concern for the comfort of his lady. The portrait of Lilias, which had been painted not long before the breach, was very lifelike, showing the girl in a powder blue gown, sitting and smiling in bashful happiness at the viewer. She wore her ring of betrothal upon her left hand, a band in her beloved’s colors fastened around her upper arm. Over her heart was clasped a brooch Kal had given her, a scarlet, heart-shaped jewel which mirrored her own eyes sparkling at its center. Barely visible was the Celestial script etched around this jewel, the words translating into “Nothing but death can keep me from you.” All of these tokens, including a portrait of Kal painted by the same artist, had been taken away from Lilias, and Meril shook her head sadly as she returned downstairs to fetch her heartbroken mistress.

Lilias was in a sorry state, weeping even as the kind older woman gently drew her to her feet and supported her, leading her upstairs to her new home. The sight of this room, filled with so many tokens of her love, only increased the girl’s distress, and Meril gently but firmly led her to the bed, causing her to lie down upon it and uttering soft reassurances before briefly disappearing through the door. Returning soon afterword with a tray of food and wine, Meril coaxed Lilias into taking some nourishment to sustain her. The girl ate and drank little, but the wine seemed to calm her, and instead of weeping she now gazed out the window in lovesick grief. The older woman soothed her young mistress as best as she could, speaking to her softly and kindly as she unfastened and gently brushed the girl’s long, ivory hair. Lilias’ hair ornaments were laid aside, and eventually Meril convinced her to change from her wedding gown into her nightdress, wrapping a pink silk robe over the white garment in case Kal should reenter. Again the girl lay in emotional agony, staring out the window at the darkening cloudy sky, and the black spires of the N’Mosran estate rising far in the distance. When the servant realized what her mistress was staring at, she quietly drew the curtains and sat beside her, holding Lilias’ hand and stroking her hair until the exhausted bride at last sank into slumber.

 

[Talon]

Kal paced the rug at the foot of his bed, the hour was late but he had not yet been able to sleep. He couldn’t shut off his mind, the fact that Lilias was only a few levels up was of no comfort. It was in fact a hindrance; he couldn’t stop thinking about her. She was what consumed his thoughts, thoughts that barred him from sleep. Had he been too harsh with her? Too lenient? The physical battles he had fought this morning had been less taxing than the war that was currently waging on in his head. He could feel her betrothal ring bouncing against his chest as he paced back and forth, a silent reminder that she had not yet come to reclaim it. He had hung the ring from his neck by a plain golden chain earlier in the day for safekeeping, and although ring and necklace together weighed less than a stone, it felt like a boulder as it pulled at his neck. His own ring, a larger version of the one around his neck, had never left his finger. He had refused to acknowledge her family’s wishes from the start and he somehow felt that taking his ring off would be like admitting defeat, allowing himself to be beaten like a coward. He would not turn and run from this, he owed her as much. His mind conjured up images of Lilias begging for forgiveness, telling him how thankful she was that he had not given up on her. He scowled as the images shattered like glass in his mind's eye and he was abruptly returned to reality. She was not grateful, and she still wanted him to give this all up and simply return her to her family. She expected him to yield. Of course she had to know that he never would, and it puzzled him as to why she still insisted on it. She knew him better than anyone, better than his own parents. He stopped his incessant pacing, sitting down on the edge of his bed. He laid back into the soft mattress, eyes staring up at the ceiling as if to see through it and into his love’s chambers. Sleep finally consumed him, carrying him into a deep slumber where they could finally be together, even if it was only in his dreams.

Kal was not cruel to his love, despite all of the events of the last few days, and he didn’t confine her to his tower like some jealous husband. She was free to roam the grounds of his family’s estate, the outer walls her only boundaries. He wasn’t about to let her walk herself back into the clutches of her manipulating mother, and he could not yet trust that she would not do just that if given the opportunity. Too many men had lost their lives in his endeavor to liberate her from her family’s clutches, a fact not lost on Kal, for her to simply return to her ancestral home in such a casual manner. She was not his prisoner, however, and Kal had ordered the tower's staff of servants to treat her like an equal, to honor her every request but one that involved escape. Kal even went so far as to send a tailor to her quarters to take her measurements and prepare her a new wardrobe. She could not return to her family’s estate even to retrieve her garments and Kal wanted her to be comfortable here in her new home. The fact that she still had not embraced her return to him burned within his soul, and he couldn’t stand the thought that she might grow to resent him if she felt like a captive under his roof . And besides, he loved her truly and wanted to see her happy, and he understood that no woman would be comfortable in the same outfit day in and day out.

Kal spent most of the next day in preparation for the inevitable N’Mosran retaliation. In the early morning and afternoon he drilled with the D’Argostian Armsmen, long hours spent in the practice yard of the Estate barracks that were directly opposite the tower on the eastern boundary wall. If she had bothered to look out her window she would have seen him throwing himself against superior odds, sometimes four or five soldiers at the same time, in an effort to provide himself with a true challenge and test the limits of his skill. Some might mistake this for arrogance, but the armsmen of House D’Argost loved and respected their young lord and were content to help him ready himself for the battles ahead. They were all aware of the events of the previous day, talk had spread throughout the city taverns by nightfall, and the gathered soldiers had broke into a round of cheers when he approached their morning drill session. Kal provided instruction on the finer points of swordsmanship in return for their participation in his sparring sessions, occasionally looking up at the window of the tower that he knew was Lilias’.

His parents had refused him an audience, their anger at his transgressions still too great for them to be in the same room as him. They did not, however, demand that he return Lilias to her family, instead only refusing to speak on the matter. It was with a heavy heart that Kal returned to his tower with the setting sun, ascending the spiraling stairs at the center. He had meant to stop at his room but his feet had another purpose, continuing up two floors until he stood at the door to Lilias’ chambers. He had changed into a black suit of similar cut to the one he wore yesterday, silver scrolling running across the collar and down the sleeves, and the color fit his current mood. He longed to feel her lips against his again, to set right the brief kiss they had shared in her room the day before. Before they could go that far he would still need to break her from her trance, convince her that being with him was the right course of action once and for all. He still believed that his Lilias lay inside there somewhere, suppressed deep under feelings of obligation to her family. Feelings that stood in the way of her love for him. It was time for Kal to go on the offensive, to fight for her soul now that he had won her freedom. He took a few moments to compose himself, putting on the calm mask of determination. It was all up to him now; the fate of the couple’s eternal happiness rested in his capable hands.

Without bothering to knock he opened the door, taking a few steps into her room.

 

[Lots_Daughter]

As the rosy fingers of dawn reached across the morning sky, the growing light fell upon the sleeping figure of Lilias, gradually awakening her from her deep slumber. A night’s sleep had done much to replenish Lilias’ body, but as the girl’s eyes opened and she realized where she was, her heart and mind were once again plagued by the memories of everything that had led to this point. They flashed before her eyes in rapid succession, her heart recalling every emotion, her mind recalling every word and action. The vision ended with one of her final interview with Kal, and this pained her most of all. She remembered pleading with him to give her up, that she was not worth the danger he was placing himself in, and his angry, passionate response. His words seemed to echo within her heart, wounding her again and again as she tried desperately to dispel them.

“I will show Meril to your room in the tower. So long as you wear another man’s promise on your finger you are not fit to share mine.”

“Your mother would just as soon throw you off a bridge as see you happy! She cares nothing for your heart…”

“It is painfully obvious that your family is of more importance to you than I am, or was…something I’ll be sure not to forget again.”

Oh, Kal! Kal! Do you not know the boundlessness of my love? Do you not know what I am willing to sacrifice for your sake? Now Mother will demand your blood, and you will never again love me as you once did.

Meril had a habit of rising before dawn, and when she found her mistress awake, the rosy morning reflected in her tear-filled eyes, the motherly servant at once came and embraced her, allowing Lilias to weep upon her shoulder. “There, there, child. All’ll be right soon.”
“Oh, Meril! Nothing will be right again! Kal does not understand. He sees only my betrayal, not my love. Now Mother will send her army, and my beloved will be taken away from me, or I from him. Meril, he does not know what he has done.”
“But ‘e does, child. Most cert’nly ‘e does. Ye know ‘is ‘eart better than anyone. Ye know ‘is passionate, fearless nature. Ye know the pow’r of ‘is love for ye. It’s ‘is love and yers that gives ‘im strength, gives ‘im the will to fight for yer sake. Ye know ‘e’d move mount’ns and defy the gods to keep ye to ‘is ‘eart.”
“But he will never love me as he once did. His eyes, his voice… He never can and never will forgive me. And when the Black Horde arrives he will come to resent me, and all he has done for my sake. He will realize that I am unworthy of his love, and never again will his loving words or eyes fall upon me. Oh, Meril! Why will not the gods end my suffering and take my life from me?”
“Hush, milady! Never wish yer life away so recklessly. Master Kal ‘as been wounded in spirit to be sure, but ‘is love for ye is as strong ‘as it ever was, I’d warrant e’en stronger. Do ye think ‘e would’ve done all ‘e ‘as if ‘e weren’t willin’ to fight for ye? ‘e is a griffon, child, a noble beast ‘o will fight to the death to defend what ‘e loves. ‘e wants ye to be ‘appy, Milady, ‘appy to be with ‘im in ‘is arms. Assure ‘im of yer love, and ‘e’ll be your tender belov’d again.”
Lilias had nothing to say in response, the weeping girl’s heart swirling with mixed emotions. At last Meril succeeded in calming her, and Lilias had embraced the older woman as a child might its mother, whispering “Oh, Meril… Whatever would I do without you?”

The rest of the morning passed quietly. Lilias had bathed and dressed, and breakfast had been brought to them by a kindly servant woman whom she had met during previous visits to Kal’s home. Most of the tower’s servants had come to love Lilias for her sweet kindness and the obvious love she had for their master. They knew of the previous day’s events, and had rejoiced that “young Lord Kalinthor’s Lady” was now safe from her conniving family. The food was excellent, and prepared with the greatest care, but the girl had not the heart to eat more than what was needed to sustain her. How could she enjoy her breakfast, knowing that both Kal and her family were so angry with her? Unaware that they were free to roam the grounds, Meril and her mistress occupied themselves within, Meril knitting while Lilias halfheartedly worked on a piece of embroidery she had begun weeks ago, when she had been happily awaiting her wedding day. She thanked the gods that she had left it in this room, knowing that if her mother had seen it she would have torn it to pieces. The girl sat by the window as she stitched, gazing out at the city which appeared so bright and cheerful. In the distance she could see the black spires of N’Mosran, and her ruby-colored eyes watched for the horde of black and red-armored soldiers who she expected at any moment. She prayed to the gods that they would not come, that her mother would see reason, that her love would remain unharmed, and that she would remain with him. May the gods’ bless you, Beloved, no matter what fortune may bring.

A little before noon, a rather flamboyant yet courteously respectful tailor came, explaining that he was to “take my Lady’s measurements that I may create a wardrobe worthy of her beauty.” Lilias’ heart had fluttered, not at the man’s flattery, which caused her cheeks to flush, but at the knowledge that Kal had sent him, that he was still concerned for her comfort and happiness. A spark of hope glowed in her heart as she stood and consented for her measurements to be taken, her cheeks flushing as the tailor remarked “What beautiful contours the next Lady of D’Argost has.” After consulting with her about her taste and preferences, the man left with a sweeping bow, and lunch had been served soon after. As she and Meril ate, Lilias wondered why Kal had not come to see her. Was he still angry? Busy? Did he stay away because he must, or because he chose to? It worried her, but she told herself that perhaps he would have dinner with her, as he had so often before. It was when the servant woman came to clear away the table that Meril and her mistress learned that they were free to explore the D’Argost property, but while the older woman attempted to coax Lilias out into the beauty and sunshine of their famous gardens, the girl could not bring herself to go. Often had she and Kal explored those gardens together, her arm wrapped lovingly around his like a flowering vine around a strong tree. He knew of her love of flowers, and delighted her with the most beautiful and rare varieties which his gardens could produce, sending her sweetly scented bouquets when circumstance kept them apart. Until Lilias had been forgiven, until she was certain of Kal’s love, dwelling on such happy memories only gave her pain.

It was in the afternoon, when she was gazing out of her window that Lilias at last caught sight of her beloved, preparing far below for the retaliation that was sure to come. She watched intently, her heart throbbing within her chest as she saw him fight and defeat one, two, three, four, and even five men at once. She remembered how valiantly Kal would fight in the arena, his sword flashing in the sunlight, the band around his arm clearly displaying her colors. He had never been defeated, never acted dishonorably, and she remembered how a few other young women had reacted with jealousy to learn that she was betrothed to Kalinthor, Celestial Scion of D’Argost. Every time Kal was victorious he would look up to where she was sitting, as if she were the very reason for his triumph. Lilias watched her lion-hearted warrior fight with and instruct his men, his handsome face now and then looking up at her window. Could he see her, looking down at him so lovingly, so longingly? Lilias could feel something changing in her heart, as if the right key had been turned and a door swung wide within her. As her beloved disappeared from view, the girl fervently prayed for him to come to her, whispering “Come to me, Beloved… Come to me…” beneath her breath over and over again.

Hours passed with no sign of Kal, and Lilias could not seem to keep still, fidgeting and rising to walk to and fro across the room. At one point she sat at her desk and hurriedly wrote two letters, folding but not sealing them when she was finished. Dinner arrived, but not her beloved, and Lilias ate perhaps even less than she had at breakfast. Why did he not come? Seeing her mistress’ nervous state, along with her shining eyes and cheeks in which roses seemed to bloom, wither, and bloom again, Meril thought that perhaps she was feverish, pressing her hand to the girl’s forehead. But her temperature was normal and she assured the older woman that she was quite well in body, only agitated in spirit. The sun was beginning to set, and with it Lilias’ hopes, until at last she told Meril that she could retire for the night. Meril had been given a special room in the servant’s quarters of the tower, and Lilias could simply ring a bell to summon her if needed. The faithful companion was unhappy at the thought of leaving her mistress in her anxious condition, but at last she consented and quietly left for her room below. Lilias was now alone, looking out at the beautiful colors of the evening sky, her heart weighted with lead until she heard the door open behind her, joy flooding her veins as she heard her beloved’s familiar step.

As she turned and rose to her feet, her ruby eyes sparkling and her cheeks rosy with delight, Lilias was the image of feminine beauty. The gown she wore was of pale yellow silk, the color of gentle morning sunlight. Its neckline was low, exposing her creamy white shoulders and an alluring yet tasteful glimpse of her ample cleavage. The neckline, sleeves, and hem were all trimmed with exquisite white lace, and the bodice was fastened in the front by a row of delicate, white, pearl buttons. Lilias’ long, ivory hair had been brushed into a glossy sheen, a pale yellow ribbon pulling a few strands back from her temples while allowing the rest to flow freely. She wore no jewelry but the gaudy betrothal ring upon her left hand, but the delicately sweet scent of lily of the valley, one of her favorite fragrances, surrounded her, tempting her beloved to draw closer. Smiling with love and devotion, Lilias at first held out her arms and came forward as if to embrace the man she so loved, saying breathlessly “Oh, Beloved… I thought you would never come…” It was just after these words that the girl noticed Kal’s dark attire, so different from her own. He hardly ever wore black, and to see him wear it now brought images of a dark, moonless, starless night to her mind. His face was so forcibly calm, his golden eyes so full of agony. She felt her heart sink, a sob rising to her throat as her eyes began to reflect his pain. He was still angry, she could feel it, and with her hands pressed helplessly to her heart, Lilias whispered “Kalinthor… Kalinthor… Have I so broken your heart that you come to me in mourning?”

 

[Talon]

Kal stopped just inside the doorway, swinging the door closed behind him. His eyes scanned the room briefly before stopping on the object of their greatest desire. Lilias, standing there radiantly in her pale yellow gown, the expanse of her creamy white chest exposed under his burning gaze and her arms held out towards him. She looked every bit as beautiful as she had in his dreams the night before, perhaps even more so than her imaginary counterpart, and the mere sight of her had taken his breath away. It took a moment for his composure to return, and he could feel his cheeks burning as he realized how much of a love struck fool he had just made himself look. He let her words hang in the air for a few moments before issuing his response, wanting to be sure his voice wouldn’t crack and betray his emotions. He was a fraction of a second away from spilling out his heart to her when he saw the ring on her finger; the betrothal ring from her other suitor. His eyes hardened once more as they lifted to her face. “And what mood should I come to you in? Should I be filled with joy to see that you still wear another man’s ring on your finger? No…then perhaps I should be angry to see that you have changed your dress yet still have not found the desire to see that…thing…from your finger. Vengeance? Should I have come stalking into your chambers with my blade bare in preparation for the killing blow?” Kal shook his head slowly. “No matter what mood you would prefer me to be in…I can feel only sadness.”

He moved closer to her, standing just a pace from her now. She could see the ring, her rightful ring, hanging from its golden chain, the gold contrasting against the deep black material of his shirt. “Without your love…without knowing that you will be there when I awake…I am no longer truly a man. I am a shell, missing the vital components inside that make me who I am.” His hand stretched out towards her, cupping her cheek against his palm gently. “You are as much a part of me as my arm is…my hands…my feet….my very soul.” He tucked a strand of her beautiful ivory hair behind her ear. “I need your love in the same manner that I need draw breath…take away either, and my heart will cease to function.” He let his hand slide from her face, running down her arm until he could grip her wrist. He pulled her to him, pressing her hand to his chest just above his heart. “You are my one true love…the world no longer exists when I am in your presence. Although I have the blood of angels coursing through my veins, I am only still only human. And this human cannot resist the sight of your beauty…such beauty that makes even goddesses hateful with envy, how does a mere mortal stand a chance?”

Kal released his grip on her wrist, taking a few steps back, away from her. “Until you see fit to return my love…willingly, I will not prostrate myself before you and beg…I will feel sadness so deeply that it leads me to wear black. Black that is deeper than the night sky, for even it has the stars and moon to light it. My black is the darkest shade; the complete absence of light…the light of your love.” Kal took a deep breath, his dark monologue finally completed. “But that is not why I have come to your chambers. I have come to discuss how you should fill your time. I have taken the liberty to contract the services of an elder sorceress…” He held a finger up as if to cut off any objections before she could issue them. “She will arrive tomorrow. She is to help tutor you in the discipline and lore of magic.” He lowered his hand, straightening his back as if preparing to argue with her on the topic of her magical ability. “I know your family believes that you do not have the talent…but you know that I do, and always have. I can think of no better time for you to develop it than before the N’Mosran’s and the family of your...former betrothed…send their dogs of war to our gates.”

A smile finally crossed his lips, a small one just tugging at the corners of his mouth, but the first she had seen sign of since their reunion. “You don’t have the strong wrists necessary to become a swordswoman, but you will need something to defend yourself, I might not always be there.” The smile left his face, his look once again serious. “I will hear your arguments on the matter, but know that my mind is set and the Sorceress already on the way.” The look in his golden eyes became distant, staring off at some point over her shoulder as if he were struggling to find some reason to stay. He dispelled the look with a shake of his head. “I will not return here to this room unless it is to deliver the ring to your finger. You know my terms.” He stood there before her, back held straight as if prepared to defend himself against her arguments. “And don’t bother trying to persuade me to return you to your family, that course is already set and I tire of such arguments. Don’t further insult my honor by thinking I would back down now.” His golden eyes burned as he held her gaze, waiting for any disagreements from her.

 

[Lots_Daughter]

For a moment Lilias believed that Kal meant to once more speak with tenderness, his eyes filled with enraptured love. But suddenly those golden eyes became as hard as flint and began to blaze with sparks of anger. How his words wounded her! They burned her heart like a red-hot poker, until even his allusion to murder was but one pain among many. The girl’s eyes once again welled with tears, her suspicions that he no longer loved her as he once had torturing her like a sadistic demon. Lilias tried to turn away to hide her face, but her beloved came closer until she could not avoid him, and through her tears she could see her ring, the only ring she would ever want or need, around his neck. When he spoke next his words were filled with sorrow, sorrow so deep that only a lightless void could equal its darkness. Her eyes closed with pain and ecstasy as he cupped her cheek in his warm, strong hand, a gesture he had performed so often in happier days. Though her eyes were closed, her ears and soul were open, and Kal’s declaration of love, of his utter powerlessness without hers, suffused her with mingled hope and sorrow; hope that his love was still strong, and sorrow for all the pain she had caused him. She felt his hands running down her arm to her delicate wrist, and her eyes opened as she found her hand pressed over his heart. His strong, manly heart. Oh, Beloved… My Darling… How we both suffer…

Lilias’ hand hung for a moment in the air as Kal retreated a few paces, as if she were unwilling to relinquish his touch, his warmth. Kal… does my love burn so dimly that you cannot see it? Despite the weight of her myriad of emotions, her ruby colored eyes went wide with surprise when he suddenly spoke of sending for a sorceress to train her in the art of magic, his voice businesslike and cool. Lilias had always been made to feel her mother’s displeasure for being born without any magic ability, but Kal had always maintained that she had some secret talent within her, hidden away so that she could not find it on her own. He seemed prepared for an argument on the subject, but the girl had no objections. She only prayed that his faith in her arcane ability were true so she could ease his mind as to her safety. The barest hint of a smile played across her beloved’s lips and filled Lilias with hope, but it vanished almost as soon as it had appeared, and again Kal regarded her with cold severity.

After he had issued his final terms, his stance one of a man who expects conflict, his love looked at him silently for a few moments, her eyes continuing to sparkle like living gems. When she at last spoke in reply, it was in a quiet whisper, one filled with tenderness, humility, hope, and pain. “Kal… after all you have said, after all that has happened between us, my heart is so full that I cannot heave it into my mouth as a whole. I have so much to say, but I fear you will lose patience with me before even half is explained. I ask only this: that you will hear me in silence until I have done, that you will keep your heart open, and that you will just now allow me a moment to collect myself. When I am done, you may do as you like with me.” Crossing over to the desk, her back to her beloved, Lilias leaned upon it and breathed deeply for a few moments, as if preparing for some great emotional endeavor. Wiping the tears from her face and eyes, she at last turned to face him again, her expression tender and sorrowful as she began.

“You and I, Beloved, have come from different worlds, worlds which have imprinted us both with their stamp, whether or not we are fully conscious of it. You have come from a world of light, honor, and goodness, while I was born into a world of darkness, duplicity, and the thirst for power. When my mother was with child, her physicians told her that her child would be one of great power, power so strong and ancient that it could not be measured or defined. My mother was delighted, thinking of all the advantages such a child would bring to her and the N’Mosran name. Her time came, and I was born, but when I was examined I was found to contain no magical essence at all, at least none which could be detected. My mother has never forgiven me for so great a disappointment, and indeed I rarely saw my mother until it became clear that I was handsome to look upon. From that point onwards, I have been groomed to marry and thus increase my family’s fortunes. I was seen as suited for no other fate. Kalinthor, imagine yourself as a little child, wandering about the dark halls of the N’Mosran estate, frightened of everything around you, and desperate to earn the love of the one woman incapable of loving. That has been my youth, and one’s youth is the foundation upon which all future endeavors are built.

“That is not to say that I was wholly unloved, that I did not receive love. My father – may the gods bless his soul – was a good man, and I know he loved me sincerely. Had you met him before his passing, you too would have come to love his kind, gentle nature. Father was my moon, giving me light to see by in the utter darkness which surrounded me. Next there was my brother Quaron, who has been loving and kind to me despite my inability to live up to the expectations of a daughter of N’Mosran. I know he and you do not get along, which pains me, but I have no more to say about him. Then there is dear Meril, the woman who has always been more of a mother to me than my real mother. I would not have survived save for her selfless love and sage-like wisdom. These three people were my moon, planets, and stars, my only lights of love until I was twelve years old, when I at last met he who was to be my sun.”

Lilias’ eyes sparkled, her expression one of adoring love which seemed to suffuse her face with light. “Yes, Beloved. From the moment I saw you, from the moment I looked into your eyes, I knew that someday I would belong to you, body, heart, mind, and soul. You became my sun, the light which dispels the darkness and drowns all other illumination. I became as the sunflower, following your path through the heavens, my adoration swelling until my love made me giddy. To think that a being so glorious should return my love! The day of our betrothal was the happiest of my life, or rather the first of so many happy days to follow. You know how blissful those six years were, each of us waiting so impatiently for the day in which we would become man and wife. We were so sure of each other’s love, so sure of our future happiness, until my mother received what she perceived to be a better offer.”

Lilias’ eyes now filled with pain, seeming to look into the distance as she continued her narrative. “I was writing a letter to you when the doors of my room suddenly opened, and my mother and several of her servants entered. In her coldest manner, my mother informed me that I was no longer to marry you, my one true love, but a stranger from the merchant family of Gigsbeckle. Can you imagine my shock, my horror at this announcement? Before I could utter a word, my mother ordered that every gift, every token, every reminder of you and your love be taken away, and her servants began to ransack my room and take away all which was most precious to me. Ask Meril if you wish to know how I begged, how I pleaded for my mother to reconsider, to even keep just one letter professing your love. But she was merciless, and even had her servants hold me down so they could wrest your precious ring from me.” She could not suppress a sob at this point, wiping away a tear as she exclaimed “Praise the gods that that precious ring was returned to your keeping! Once they had stripped every vestige of you from me and from my chamber, they abandoned me to me grief. All except Meril, my faithful friend and dearest confidant. I wept for days. I could not eat, I could not sleep. When the day of the false betrothal arrived, I was nothing but a lifeless shell. I approached him, nodded, and accepted his horrid ring, but I felt as though my heart and soul had withered within me.

“Then came your letter, asking me to elope with you, and for an hour at least I was exquisitely happy, rushing about and making preparations to fly away with my true love. But my mother’s influence upon me was too great, and all the guilt she had instilled in me rose up like a great black beast against me. I thought of my family’s apparent dependence upon me to improve their fortune. I thought of my mother’s perfect willingness to do you harm to prevent our marriage. Forgive me. I know now how wrong I was, but at the time I believed that the only way to save you and benefit my family was to force myself to go through with the Gigsbeckle alliance. I wrote that letter – that horrid, horrid letter – and my Darling, how it has made us both suffer! I thought that although my sun would never be my husband, I could still bask in his light from afar. Foolish thought, that either one of us could bear such misery. You know the rest. The wedding preparations were made, and it was during my last fitting that my knight, my sun appeared. How you terrified me, Beloved. How you made me think that you had come for my life, and for a few moments I welcomed death at your hands. But moreover, I feared that my mother or her minions would discover and kill you. Praise the gods it was not so!”

Lilias’ expression now became one of mingled happiness and pain, as if one trying to smile despite her tears. “You brought me here, your home, what was to be our home. Yours words last night, how they have haunted me! Last night, and all throughout today I have asked myself whether or not you will ever love me as you once did, whether you would forgive me even if I begged. I have tried to understand myself, to understand you, to understand us and all those around us. It was with pain that I admitted how cruel my mother was, to nurture our love only to pluck it from the earth. The image of your golden eyes, the eyes I so love, burning with fury has never left me, and I cannot say if it ever will. I have struggled with myself, until… until I saw you fighting with your men far below my window, preparing for the battle which doubtless lies ahead. I remembered how bravely you fought in the arena, how you heaped honor after honor upon my name. I remembered how you used to let me bandage your wounds, and it was with that memory that all became so suddenly clear to me.”

With eyes glowing with a new enlightened happiness, Lilias explained “If you were willing to endanger yourself in the arena, to scar your body for my sake, why should you not be willing to risk your life in defending what you love? I realized that I had been insulting your honor, assuming that you would not be ready and willing, even eager to face danger if it meant keeping me by your side. If you are willing to risk your life for my love, who am I to deny you?” Turning to the desk, Lilias retrieved one of the letters she had written earlier, unfolding it and approaching Kal. “I have written two letters, one to my mother, and one to the Gigsbeckles, informing them of my decision to marry my first, true, and only love. See under what name I have signed it.” Holding the open letter for him to see, she allowed Kal to read the name “Lilias D’Argost” in her graceful, feminine handwriting.

When her beloved next met her eyes, he could see them brimming with tears of joy. “Yes, my beloved Kalinthor. Doubt my wisdom, doubt my sanity, doubt my virtue if you must, but never doubt my love. Since my twelfth year I have been Lilias D’Argost, in my heart if not in name. You are my beloved, my betrothed, my husband if you will have me. I care not for pomp and ceremony. All I want is for my body and soul to be bound to yours forever.” Slowly Lilias sank to her knees before him, taking his hands in hers and kissing them as if they were worthy of worship. “I have been waiting for you to come to me, for you to take this horrid bauble from my hand and once again reclaim me with your ring, marking me as yours and only yours. Please my Darling… forgive me. Promise me that you will love me as if I had never broken your heart. Burn that awful letter to ash as if it had never existed. And as soon as possible, make your betrothed your bride.”

Her beloved could now feel his hands showered with tears as well as kisses, the girl before him whispering “Nothing but death can keep me from you…”

 

[Talon]

Kal stood before her, silent as she poured forth her very soul in her words, face still grim as if carved from stone. His insides burned as she laid out the story of their life together from the beginning; the spark of love that had ignited since the time of their first meeting and had grown into a blazing inferno, the flames consuming the lives of the two young lovers. They had been powerless to stop it even if they had wanted to, every meeting only fanning the source and feeding the blaze. Such true love, felt so strongly by both parties was as rare as a total eclipse, and just as powerful a sight. Their friends were jealous; strangers envious.

His heart ached to hear how his words had affected her, but they had been necessary. He had built a wall around his heart, and imperfect as that wall had been in allowing the occasional brick to slip free, it had held long enough to see its purpose through. That wall came crashing down as she confessed her undying love, the foundation slipping free as he saw his surname behind her own, so elegantly written in the delicate flow of her script. That lifeless, cruel look that had defined his face for the past two days melted slowly from his face, to be replaced by the same look she had seen time and time again; undying adoration. The look he gave from the arena as he lifted his sword to her, pledging his blade to her honor. The look he gave her as they shared an embrace under the orchard trees of the D’Argost gardens, arms clasped tightly around each other under the watchful eyes of a chaperone. The look he gave her as he watched her sink to her knees to finally utter the words he had been waiting desperately for two days to hear.

Kal had given her the silence she had requested, and as she whispered her final words he pulled a hand away from her grasp to reach up and jerk the chain around his neck. The thin chain gave way easily, the broken strands swinging to wrap around his closed fist. He fell to his knees in front of her, his free hand moving up to slide the last barrier between them from her finger. Once free he let it fall to the ground, the other man’s ring rolling away from them, the offending metal circle already cast from his thoughts as soon as his beloved’s finger was bare. He pulled the broken chain from her rightful ring, grasping her hand once again to hold it steady as he slid the ring onto her finger. He leaned down to kiss her finger as if it would seal the ring in place for eternity. “I, Kalinthor, Celestial Scion of the House D’Argost, do humbly request for your hand in marriage. With this ring I pledge my undying love, loyalty and friendship. I will forever be your safe harbor in times of storm, the protector of your honor and the holder of your secrets. I pledge my eternal fidelity in matters of the flesh and the heart, and I beseech the gods to seal this solemn vow on punishment of death should I stray from it.” It was the same vow he had given at the ceremony marking their betrothal.

He looked up into her eyes, the formerly smoldering golden orbs now filled with sadness. “I have never before doubted your feelings for me, but the actions you took in the name of keeping me safe have done just that. So long as you feel love for me, pledge that you will never go down that road again. You must realize that as descendants of powerful bloodlines we will always be tested, challenges that together we can overcome but may consume us if apart.” He leaned his head forward, resting his forehead against hers and looking down into her eyes. “Being cruel to you has been the most difficult thing that I have ever had to do, but I felt that without my cruelty you would be lost to your family's purpose and would never come to see things as they should be. Know that in my heart I have felt the same for you, no matter the appearance of my actions.” He caressed her cheek once more and she could feel the calluses of a swordsman’s hand on his fingers and palm as they lightly brushed against her soft skin. “You are so beautiful my love…” He leaned back away from her, standing and pulling her to her feet with him.

“I will send for a priest in the morning. We will be wed on the roof of our tower as soon as one can arrive. I cannot be made to wait another day to finally be called your husband.” His eyes scanned her form, stunning as it was in the manner she was dressed. “And as much as I desire to take you to my bed and consummate our eternal love this very moment…” He lingered, as if considering doing exactly that. “I would not have us wait this long only to soil your honor on the eve of our marriage. For this night, you shall remain a maiden and I your suitor. That said…I cannot bear the thought of being apart from you this night, regardless of what the morning brings. Would your honor remain intact if I asked that you share my bed tonight?” He smiled, his hands moving down to grasp hers in a firm grip. “In your nightclothes of course…but I need to feel my arms wrapped around your form, the rise and fall of your back against my chest as you breathe…the smell of your hair.” He pulled her arms toward him, crushing her breasts against his chest between them. “The first time we have been truly alone together…without chaperone. I thought the last few days had been a test…but the difficulty of your rescue was nothing compared to the challenge of keeping my hands decent.”

He pulled away, his hands still clasped in hers, a small smile on his lips. The color of his black wardrobe no longer suited him, seeming out of place now that he had returned to old form. He felt as if a great weight had been lifted from his shoulders, his stance now fluid and relaxed as it was before the rift had formed between them. He just remained silent for the moment, staring into her eyes.

 

[Lots_Daughter]

Nothing could describe the ravishing, the all-consuming happiness that filled Lilias’ veins as her beloved Kal once again looked so adoringly upon her, jerking the chain he wore free from his neck and kneeling with her. It was as if the sun had at last risen within her heart, its pure golden light chasing away the last storm clouds of fear and doubt as Kalinthor, Celestial Scion of the House D’Argost once more placed his ring upon her finger, the offending foreign bauble cast aside as if it had never existed. The girl’s joy was reflected in her face as the man she loved more than life itself repeated the vows he had sworn so long ago, her eyes sparkling with happy tears as they were betrothed afresh. Lilias’ heart ached with loving sympathy as she saw the momentary sadness within her beloved’s eyes, realizing how it had pained him to so harsh with her, but that it had been necessary to make her realize what was most important to her. Oh what joy, to know that he had never doubted her love, that his own had never diminished! She closed her eyes, sighing with rapture as Kal’s battle-roughened hand once more caressed her cheek so lovingly, adoring that manly, callused hand more than any other in the universe. Her complexion had recovered its sweet, rosy glow as he stood and pulled her to her feet, their eyes gazing into each other’s with the mutual ardor they had felt for so many years.

Tomorrow… to think that tomorrow, after so many long years of waiting, they would at long last be made man and wife. Lilias could feel the passion rising in Kal’s voice as he spoke of his temptation to consummate their love right then and there, her heightened color and quickened breathing betraying her own desire to abandon herself to his amorous touch. But her beloved was the soul of honor, and her eyes sparkled with worship for him as he declared his intention to protect her virtue, his willingness to wait but one more night before indulging in the pleasures of the flesh. How she loved him! How she adored him! Lilias was surprised, but delighted when he asked her to spend the night with him in his bed, their bodies together in the warmth and security of love, yet chaste from any action which might jeopardize their future happiness. She too could not bear the thought of spending the entire night away from her beloved after the so recent renewal of their affection, and was about to reply when he suddenly pulled her tightly, possessively against him, the fullness of her breasts pressed firmly against his chest. Lilias’ breathing again heightened, her body tingling with excitement as Kal spoke of his difficulty in keeping his hands under control in her presence.

As her beloved pulled back, their hands still clasped together in a gesture of oneness, the girl looked up at his enthralling smile, her ruby colored eyes sparkling to see his golden orbs once again shining with love, desire, and tenderness. It felt as if their love had been reborn, and in this moment of exquisite happiness, Kal’s black attire no longer suited him. Holding his hands still tighter in her gentle grasp, as if afraid that he would vanish, Lilias smiled adoringly into her betrothed’s eyes, and no other expression could have equaled her beauty at that moment. “Oh, Kal…” she breathed, her voice so full of love and warmth that could be no louder than a whisper, “Oh, my Beloved… how I could live upon your smiles alone! To think that you should still love me, after all I have made you suffer. May the gods hear me as I swear, upon everything I hold sacred, that I will never again allow anything to come between us and our love, even if I believe it is for the best. There are dark clouds to come, my Darling, but I can bear all if I have your love. Tomorrow… blessed, blessed tomorrow! At last we will be wed, and I will be yours, wholly and completely yours! May no man part they who the gods have joined!” Lilias looked slightly away from her beloved’s eyes, her expression sweet and bashful as she confessed “I too have been lashed by temptation, my Love, my all too earthly body craving to yield to your touch. I know so little about… physical love, but I know that I cannot help but feel such longings in your arms. But I fear to yield to such desires before their time, so afraid of risking our eternal happiness for but a moment of release. My beloved Kal, so noble, so strong… Tonight my treasure must be withheld from you, but tomorrow… blessed tomorrow!”

Meeting his eyes once again, her own shining with the happiness which only true love can bring, she continued “Yes, my Beloved. I shall spend this night with you in your bed. I too cannot bear an entire night away from you, from your love, from the warmth of your arms. Tonight must be one of chaste yet happy love. Tomorrow, I shall withhold nothing from you. Oh, my Darling… I must change, but I cannot bear to be away from you for even one moment! What if you are but a happy vision and vanish before I return?”

 

[Talon]

Kal grinned as he held her gaze. He worried for a moment that she might decline the offer to share his bed, and was more than relieved when she accepted. “I will be sure to smile often so that you are well sustained, but I’m afraid I cannot allow that to be your only sustenance, for I fear smiles alone will not maintain your luscious curves that so tempt my hands and tease my eyes. Surely you would not wish to alter the figure that is the envy of mortals and goddesses alike?” He smiled teasingly, leaning forward to place a kiss on her forehead. Although said with a teasing tone, he meant every word of what he had said. If he was to visit an artist and commission a painting of his ideal woman, then describe to that artist in words what she must look like, the end result would pale in comparison to Lilias. She embodied the perfect feminine attributes, and unlike so many of the other females among the other noble families, her mind did not suffer on account of her physical beauty. To know the love of such a woman made Kal feel like the luckiest man in the world.

“I, like you my love, cannot bear to be away from you even to allow you to ready yourself for sleep. I will keep my eyes from your flesh…but I cannot guarantee that my ears will not be listening for the sounds of your dress being removed.” He released his grip on her hands, turning slowly until his back was to her, eyes facing the door. “By the way, my sister Korina was asking after you this morning. I fear she will break down the door of the tower tomorrow if I do not allow her to come and see you.” He laughed, knowing that his tenacious little sister would attempt just such a thing. “I’m afraid she is growing into a female version of me. I fear for whoever will choose to court her.” Kal was obviously joking, and Lilias knew that he loved his little sister almost as much as he loved her. Korina adored and idolized Lilias, following her about the D’Argost Estate like a duckling follows its mother, nothing but pure admiration in her eyes as she looked up at her with the D’Argostian trademark golden eyes. “You should consider allowing her to be in your wedding party, I’m afraid that she will not accept no for an answer.”

“I will also take the liberty of having the servants show the Sorceress to her chambers tomorrow when she arrives. She will be living here in the tower with us until your training is complete, so she will be at hand whenever you wish to begin your training. I fear tomorrow will not be a good day to start such things, I’m not sure that I will be allowing you to leave our bed until the sun sets and rises again…at least.” Lilias could hear the smile that graced his lips in the tone of his voice. He cleared his throat, as if wishing to move on from such a subject lest his lust consume him. He instead fell silent, his ears perking at the sound of her dressing, his imagination conjuring up a picture of what the scene must look like. He shook his head to clear his thoughts; how could a man used to the rigors of swordplay be so affected by the proximity of flesh? But the fact was that it wasn’t simply flesh, it was Lilias. The woman that, since the time he had become aware of such adult things, had been the object of all of his fantasies, the subject of many late night dreams that saw him awaken painfully aroused in the morning. And now that he was so close to finally fulfilling those desires it was having a profound effect on him. He wiped a thin layer of sweat from his brow. This would be a long night after all, but at least he would be able to finally hold her as they slept. There was some consolation for him in the knowledge that they would be wrapped together in his blankets tonight, a dress rehearsal for the glorious lovemaking that would finally take place between the two young lovers the very next night.

Kal had only been talking to keep his mind from what was going on behind his back, the temptation to turn around and gaze on her form almost overpowering his sense of honor. But Kal was a man of character and integrity; true to form he didn’t move an inch as she changed. Once word had been given that she was once more decent to look upon, Kal turned, shamefully eager to see her in her nightclothes.

 

[Lots_Daughter]

Lilias blushed and smiled, looking away bashfully as Kal praised the luscious curves of her body. Though she was indeed more beautiful than most due to her otherworldly ancestry, Lilias was also very humble, believing that she did not deserve most of the high praise she received. Still, when such praises came from the lips of her beloved, the girl could not help but feel her heart flutter with joy and pleasure. To think that Kalinthor D’Argost, the most handsome, the most wonderful man in the universe believed she was beautiful, when she was so unworthy of his notice. Lilias could name several women, including her own sister, whom she believed to be much lovelier than herself, but in this she was mistaken. Those women, while handsome in body, were ugly in spirit, where as Lilias’ physical beauty was but a lamp through which the radiant purity of her soul shone forth for all to see. The girl’s lips released a sweet sigh as Kal kissed her forehead, his every loving gesture causing her to melt with rapture from within. With her cheeks rosy and her eyes sparkling with happiness, there were few men who could have denied that she was stunningly beautiful.

Lilias’ cheeks grew ever more rosy as her betrothed made clear his intentions to remain in the room as she undressed, turning his back to her and facing the door so that he would not see her. She had never undressed with a man present, and when that man was Kal, the only man she could ever wish to reveal herself to… Turning away from him slowly, her heart pounding within her chest, Lilias reached up and untied the ribbon in her hair, allowing all of her silky ivory locks to fall freely down her back and over her shoulders. Glancing over her shoulder to be sure that Kal was not watching, the girl’s delicate fingers began to unfasten the white pearl buttons which held her gown closed. More and more of her ample, creamy cleavage was exposed, until at last the bodice of her gown fell open, revealing that she wore no corset. Lilias’ breasts were perfection, full, firm, and creamy white, her pink nipples like rosebuds at the summits of alabaster mounds. Though she could discern from the direction of his voice that Kal was facing the other way, the girl could not help but once more glance over her shoulder before allowing the garment to slip from her shoulders, the silken gown rustling as it puddled around her feet.

If Kal had turned around at that moment, it is doubtful whether his honorable resolve would have held. Lilias’ body was a rare yet exquisite combination of delicacy and curves, with full breasts, a slender waist, and round, curvy hips. Her limbs were slender and shapely, her hands and feet small and beautifully formed. The flesh which clothed such a body was milky white with a rosy glow, as soft and flawless as silk and perfectly hairless. Though her body conveyed the ripe, young fullness of womanhood, there was also a suggestion of fragility, delicacy, and grace. Lilias now wore nothing but her panties and stockings, and as she stepped out of her gown and draped it over a chair, she could feel her delectable nipples hardening at the sudden change in temperature. Trembling with cold, nervousness, and excitement, her heart pounding still harder, the girl sat upon a nearby vanity stool and carefully removed her stockings, the delicate white silk teasing her already tingling flesh. Lilias listened to Kal’s every word as he spoke, doing his best to distract the two of them from their carnal thoughts, but her body and mind were too distracted for her to attempt an immediate reply. Standing to remove her panties, the girl once again glanced anxiously over her shoulder, deciding to allow the white, side-tied garment to remain to further protect her virtue. Fetching her nightdress, Lilias quickly slipped it over her head, her heart beating a little less urgently now that most of her body was hidden. It was a lovely yet simple garment, high-waisted with short puffed sleeves and a plunging neckline, revealing her delicious cleavage. The fabric was white and touchably soft, clinging to her luscious curves and draping itself into a short train upon the floor. Afraid that this was not enough to avoid awakening Kal’s desires, Lilias also draped her pink silk robe over her shoulders, her cleavage yet still visible and her cheeks pink as she whispered “Kal, I’m ready…”

The girl flushed deeply as she saw with what eagerness her beloved turned to view her in her night clothes, her ruby colored eyes falling bashfully to the floor, a shy, sweet smile playing upon her lips. Unable to look him in the eye just yet, Lilias softly replied to what Kal had said while she was undressing, her voice tender and affectionate as she spoke of his sister. “Dear little Korina… how I have missed her. I would be so happy if she could be part of our wedding, and I know it would make her so happy to be there.” Lilias had always wanted a little sister to spoil and dote upon, and her beloved’s much younger sister, stubborn, yet sweet and loving, had filled this special void in her heart. She was looking forward to being her big sister, imagining the hugs and kisses she would receive from the child when they were reunited. As her thoughts shifted to the Sorceress who would arrive the next day, her expression became more nervous, Lilias wondering if she truly did have a hidden gift, and if this women could awaken it within her. She prayed for it to be so, hoping to be able to defend herself and save Kal from so much worry.

Thinking of a more delicate subject, Lilias at last raised her eyes, her ruby orbs filled with both worry and hope as she asked “Beloved, do your parents know that I am here? Would… would they attend our wedding? I would so like them to come, if they would not object.”

 

[Talon]

It was fortunate for him that Lilias had cast her eyes downward, for she missed seeing his jaw unhinge as he took in the sight of her in her white nightdress, mouth agape for a few moments before he could compose himself. Kal was the sort of man who was never caught off-guard and never struck speechless, so he was confused when the words stuck in his throat as he tried to pronounce them. “I…well…I…” He stopped, clearing his throat. He approached her again, reaching out to clasp her hands together in his. Better to keep them there, rather than free to pursue the object of their desire. “Lilias…you look…incredible my love, absolutely breathtaking. You are the very definition of beauty.” Kal smiled once again, his golden orbs glowing as he looked down into her ruby eyes. “You know my mother and father. They are too upset to even grant me audience, but they will not miss their first born son’s marriage, regardless of the circumstances. No matter how much my father might want to, my mother would never allow him to be absent. And they do know of your presence in the tower, hence the aforementioned hostility.” He knew that Lilias had always hoped to earn his parents respect and love, and how important the relationship between her and his parents was to both of them. “But they are angry with me my love, not you. They will most likely not welcome you with open arms tomorrow, but their anger will soon pass, and they will come to love you as I do.” He stroked her hair, tucking it behind her ear, his customary gesture while attempting to comfort her.

“Don’t let such thoughts worry you my love, for soon you will be a D’Argost, and as much their daughter as my wife. You’ll see, just give it some time.” He leaned down to kiss her on the cheek, nuzzling the side of her face before pulling away. “Now beloved, I don’t know about you, but the day’s events have given me cause to seek the comfort of my bed early. “ Kal released her hands suddenly, moving to her side to lean down and scoop her up in his arms, one across her lower back and one behind her thighs. He swept her off her feet with ease; her light frame no large burden for the strength in his upper arms. He stood with her held in front of his chest in the same manner that a groom carries his new bride over the threshold, a playful grin creeping across his face. “I know this is a bit premature, but allow me the pleasure of bearing you to your new chambers.” He walked to the door and waited for her to open it, passing through the doorframe sideways so as not to bump her head or feet and walking softly down the stairs until they reached his chambers.

Kal’s personal chambers in the D’Argost Tower were spartan at best, largely free of decoration and clutter. A large wardrobe sat beside the white marble fireplace set into the wall directly across from the entrance, his writing desk now once again set in place to the right. His bed was to the left side of the room and placed directly up against the wall, the foot facing the large window that dominated the right wall so that the bed’s occupant might watch the sunrise as they woke from slumber and gaze upon the moon as they fell asleep. A large tapestry displaying the D’Argostian crest hung on the wall above the bed, the only decoration adorning any of the room’s walls. Placed on the desk were a few small pictures Kal had commissioned depicting his beloved, among them a small stone bust of a dignified older man Lilias recognized from other paintings she had seen around the estate as his grandfather. A large, dark rug dominated the center of the room and ran from the foot of the bed to the back of his writing desk. The room very clearly needed a feminine touch, something Kal would encourage her to bring to it in the days to come. But for now he set her down on her feet just inside the door, bowing formally. “I hope the chambers are to my lady’s liking.”

Kal closed the door behind them, moving across the room to his desk without another word. He stripped off his jacket and placed it over the back of the chair at his desk, not even bothering to warn Lilias that he was about to disrobe. She had seen him bare-chested on several occasions, either training or after a tournament match, and it was not considered socially unacceptable to see a man in such a state of undress on the city streets. Kal pulled the dark undershirt over his head, raising his arms to pull it up over them and place it over his jacket. The muscles of his chest and arms looked as if etched from stone, his waist slender in the manner of a swordfighter, not an ounce of fat on his lean frame. His skin was lightly tanned from his daily practice sessions under the afternoon sun, a light bronze hue that set off the color of his eyes and his dark blonde hair. Just as she epitomized the ideal female form, Kal was the definition of masculine perfection.

Kal pulled the chair from under his desk and sat to pull off his boots, looking up at Lilias as his hands worked. “Fear not my love, I wouldn’t dream of not allowing you to bring something of yourself to our room. I want it to reflect that you live here as well." He stood, looking into her eyes as he unbuckled the thick leather belt that held up his pants. He pushed his trousers to the floor to step out of them, picking them up and folding them neatly over the rest of his clothes. Underneath his trousers he wore a long, white pair of close fitting undershorts that ended just above his knees as his final article of clothing. The legs of the shorts clung to his thickly powerful thighs, the large bulge in the center of the garment obviously revealing the location of her betrothed’s generous endowment. He was proud of his body and confident in its appearance, almost eager to feel her eyes appraise his form before they slid under the covers.

Kal grinned as he crossed the room to stand before her, gesturing towards the bed. "Shall I tuck you in, my love?"

 

[Lots_Daughter]

Lilias flushed as she heard her usually prepared lover stammer, marveling that her appearance could provoke such a response in him. As he approached her, reaching out to take her hands in his, the girl looked up into Kal’s eyes, those burnished golden orbs enchanting her with their expression of love and admiration. Her heart fluttered like a butterfly within her chest as he praised her beauty, thrilled beyond measure that such a wonderful, blessed man as Kalinthor D’Argost could ever find her more than tolerable. His smile, particularly the wicked grin he often cast upon her, made Lilias feel weak in the knees with adoration and desire, the fact that her beloved could be so good yet so mischievous throwing fuel upon the ardent love which burned in her heart. Her expression became pained as Kal told her of the temporary estrangement between him and his parents, unable to stifle a small feeling of guilt for being the cause of such a rupture. Lilias loved and respected Lord and Lady D’Argost as if they were her own parents, and she wanted so badly for them to see her as their daughter. The knowledge that they would be present at their wedding comforted her, as did her beloved’s tender gesture of gently brushing her hair back behind her ear. He knew her so well. Lilias prayed that he was right, closing her eyes and sighing blissfully as her darling Kal kissed her cheek and nuzzled it gently. “Kal…”

Almost before she knew what was happening, the white-clad girl found herself suddenly swept off her feet, held securely in her beloved’s arms as if she were a bride being carried over the threshold. She released a tiny squeak of surprise, then giggled with joy to be so lovingly cradled, looking up into her lover’s face with pure adoration, untwining her slender arms from around his neck only to open the door before he carried her quietly down the stairs. How Lilias loved it when he carried her so, remembering other times when he had done the same. Once was when they had attended a society picnic in a beautiful grassy field. It had rained the previous night, and large patches of the field were soggy with mud. Like the gallant lover he was, Kal had insisted on carrying her over such areas so her gown and shoes would not be ruined, seemly heedless of the fact that his own boots became caked with dirt. Then there had been the time she had sprained her ankle and he had promptly scooped her into his arms and carried her back into her house, visiting her every day during her short recovery. Lilias remembered the most recent event, when she and her beloved had been kept apart longer than usual by business and other circumstances. Temporarily ignoring the reproaches of their chaperone, the two lovers had run to each other and embraced, and Kal’s happiness had been such that he had swept her off her feet and spun her around with him several times before they at last heeded their scolding guardian. And here they were, reunited after such a trying absence, Lilias cradled in her beloved’s arms as if she were his most precious possession.

Though she had visited his private chambers once or twice before, Lilias looked around her with large eyes full of affection and wonder, a smile of pleasure upon her lips. It was true that the room was simply furnished and largely free of decoration, but the furnishings were of good quality and were elegantly understated. What decoration there was spoke clearly as to what was foremost in its master’s heart, and the deep, rich colors of the bedding gave the feeling of warmth and comfort. But most importantly, this was her beloved’s room, and Lilias loved everything and everyone associated with him. When Kal set her down upon her feet and asked if his chambers were to her liking, she smiled up at him happily, replying “Yes, my beloved. Very much.” Though she was a little bashful at being alone with him in his private chambers, Lilias was wholly unprepared for when Kal began to undress without warning, her ruby red eyes wide and her cheeks flushed as she watched helplessly and with a pounding heart. She knew that the proper thing to do was to look away and give him some privacy, but the girl was wholly unable to tear her eyes from her beloved’s manly, muscular, bronzed physique. No matter how many times before she had seen his bare chest and arms, Lilias always felt the same craving; to be held in those strong arms, against that muscular chest. She longed to kiss and adore every inch of his masculine flesh, especially the scars he had received in her honor. In her eyes, Kal was not just a man, but a god. A golden god of the sun.

With her hands clasped over her heart, her eyes full of torturous longing and utter worship, she barely heard Kal’s words as he removed his boots, watching his muscles ripple as he stood. Lilias knew that she positively must look away as he unbuckled his belt, but she could do nothing but stare in awestruck silence, and as his trousers fell to the floor her eyes went wide and she gasped with astonishment. The girl had never seen a man’s secret parts, other than in the nude works of art which were innumerable on the N’Mosran estate. In those works the subjects’ manhoods had been somewhat small, but the bulge in the front of Kal’s close-fitting undershorts suggested that his own was much, much larger. Though Lilias had secretly wondered what her beloved’s masculinity looked like, she had never, ever imagined that it would be so big! Power and enticement seemed to radiate from between her lover’s thighs, calling to her, filling her body with fiery, unmerciful yearnings. Yet through it all there was a touch of fear, the girl wondering to herself if such a large organ would ever be able to fit inside her when the time came. Lilias continued to stare with mingled lust, love, amazement, and fear, her mouth open until Kal approached her with his wicked grin and asked if she was ready for bed. Trying desperately to snap out of her trance, her heart pounding and her face flushed, she looked up into his eyes, once more becoming captive in his golden gaze.

Lilias could feel that she was dangerously close to yielding to temptation, and her ruby eyes reflected this as she at last found her tongue and implored “Yes, Beloved… but take care. Remember my honor…”

 

[Talon]

Kal leaned forward to press his lips against the top of her head, turning his head to place his cheek against her soft hair. “I will take care if you will my love. I’ve already pledged to see you awaken in the morning with your maidenhood intact, and that’s I promise I intend to keep.” He pulled back, looking down into her beautifully deep ruby eyes. “Just know this…there is nothing on this earth I want more than to take you to my bed and worship every inch of your flesh, this is the power of my desire for you.” His eyes were burning, not with anger as before but with passion. “But such is my respect for your honor and the sanctity of our vows that I will withhold my passion for the night. For if there was ever anything worth waiting for, this is it. It will only happen once, and I do not want us to look back on this moment and regret not waiting.” He stroked her cheek once more, kissing her forehead before pulling away. “Now, let us see you safe under the covers, only to emerge with the rising sun in order to be made my wife.” He smiled, moving away from her to the far side of the bed and pulling back the covers.

As Kal waited for her to slip between the covers so he could pull them over her his words rung in his head, drawing him back to the moment they first properly met. Young Kalinthor had seen the cute young N’Mosran girl at several social functions, but he never actually made her acquaintance until a chance encounter one spring afternoon. Lilias was a cute young thing, twelve years old and full of the innocence and joy she still contained as a grown woman. The entirety of the noble families making up Terraq city were gathered at the home of one of the city’s Elder Councilman in celebration of the coming of the summer season, really nothing more than an excuse to gather among themselves and talk business and politics. By day the children were permitted to play amongst themselves on the expansive grounds of the Councilman’s Estate, filled with lush gardens and long fields of open grass, perfect for the adventurous spirit of young children. Lilias had kept to herself, surveying the many beautiful flowers that made up the garden, attempting to count how many different varieties she found. She had just leaned over to smell a particularly interesting specimen when the Councilman’s eldest son, Phillip, approached her. Phillip was a chubby boy of fourteen years with a rather vile attitude, and considering his father’s status the boy was rarely chastised for his rude behavior to other children. The spring rains had visited Terraq only the day before, so not only were the flowers of the garden coated with fresh droplets of dew but the ground where the children had been playing all day had been churned to mud between large puddles of collected rainwater. Phillip walked up beside Lilias and with a wicked laugh he pushed the small girl with all his might, knocking Lilias off her feet to land on her backside, directly in a large puddle of fresh mud. The wet dirt splashed up around her, coating her new feast day dress with brown splatter marks and completely ruining the beautiful garment.

Lilias looked up at Phillip with shock in her large ruby eyes; tears forming around the edges as her lip trembled, trying to contain her tears. The rotund little bully just pointed and laughed at her, bending over as if to gather a handful of mud to throw at her. Before Phillip had the chance to retrieve his makeshift projectile Lilias noticed an older boy standing behind him, having walked up completely unnoticed the tall young man lashed out with a booted foot, catching the bully in the seat of the pants and pitching him face first into the mud. Such was the force of his blow that Phillip slid a few feet across the muddy ground, stopping just in front of Lilias’ feet. Phillip looked up and turned, face comically caked in a layer of mud, obviously looking to take out his anger on whoever had pushed him. The anger quickly turned to shock as he saw young Kalinthor D’Argost towering over him. It was well known in the noble circles that the young scion had just returned from a year of study with the continent's most legendary blademaster, Grandmaster Marek, and that he was already a formidable swordsman despite his age of only fifteen years. Kalinthor was dressed for the feast, a dark red suit covered in golden needlework, golden tassels hanging from the shoulders around his upper arms. Kalinthor was looking down at him with the serious face that Lilias would come to recognize well from his time in the arena, a silent challenge provoking his opponent into action, daring them to attack him. “I believe your mother is calling Phillip…wouldn’t want to worry her. Run along now, boy. And ask your father for lessons in the proper way to treat a young lady.” Phillip stood, staring at Kalinthor for a few moments before finally deciding against action and turning to run towards his parent’s estate, screaming “Mommy!” at the top of his lungs as he ran. Kalinthor turned to Lilias, a slight smile playing at the corner of his lips. He moved towards her, leaning down to offer his hand, outstretched from the fluffy folds of the white sleeve of his elegant white undershirt. “Mi’lady, may I help you to your feet?” He pulled her up, seemingly uncaring if mud splashed onto his fine suit, which it did. He stood back, bowing elaborately before her. “Kalinthor D’Argost, at your service mi’lady.”

Kal had given her his jacket to cover her dirty dress before escorting her back to the estate and to her parents. He had not bothered to tell either of their parents about the altercation, instead only insisting that she share a dance with him before going home to change. Kalinthor seemed unconcerned about her state, covered in mud as she was, and all of the young ladies at the function glared at Lilias in jealousy as the young couple twirled about the dance floor. Kalinthor bid her keep the jacket, leaving her with another elaborate bow as their dance was concluded and her parents pulled her off, lecturing her about getting mud on her new dress. His eyes remained locked with hers until she was finally pulled out of sight, her parent’s words falling on deaf ears as the two stared at each other while she was carried away. A powerful seed of love had been planted deep within their souls, and Kalinthor would never love another woman from that day forth.

Kal shook his head, clearing the memory. His smile had renewed vigor as he looked upon her now, seeing the woman she had blossomed into from that cute young round eyed girl. He gestured towards the bed, indicating the place he meant for her to climb between the sheets. As she climbed in he slipped the covers over her, taking one last look at her beautiful form before concealing it beneath the heavy blanket. He made his way around the bed and climbed in beside her, moving over towards her and pulling her back into his chest as he wrapped his arms around her. He rested his cheek against hers, their bodies pressed together, sharing warmth under the still frigid covers. The thin material of their nightclothing did little to prevent her from feeling the large bulge contained within the crotch of his shorts, the oversized bundle that had so held her attention only moments before now clearly rested against her backside. He was not drawing any special attention to it, he did not grind up against her lewdly, but she could feel it still in its slumbering state just pressed between them in silent testament to his manhood. Kal didn’t even seem to notice, sighing contently as he kissed her cheek before settling his head back down against hers. “Goodnight love, and sleep well.”

 

[Lots_Daughter]

Lilias closed her eyes as her beloved kissed her head and nestled his cheek in her ivory hair, his every loving gesture more precious than gold and jewels to her heart. She listened to his reassurances of his pure intentions in blissful silence, her heart swelling with gratitude and joy even as her body craved to surrender. Kal’s willpower was so strong, his honor so incorruptible. To think that she was so fortunate as to be loved by a man who valued her innocence so highly, who denied himself immediate satisfaction so that they might celebrate their honeymoon as they should. Oh, to love and be loved by such a man! If it were possible for Lilias to love Kal even more than she did already, it was at that moment of promise and adoration. Her willpower renewed by his example, Lilias smiled up into her lover’s eyes, her own filled with all the love and gratitude she felt for him as he turned to pull down the covers of his bed, very soon to be their bed.

The girl flushed a little with modesty at the thought of sharing a man’s bed, no matter how chastely, and she smiled shyly up at Kal as she at last slipped beneath the covers, taking care to prevent her nightdress from riding up her legs. His bed was so soft, and though the blankets were not yet warm, they were heavy and comforting. Her bashful blushes increased as the man she loved crawled into bed beside her, and Lilias could not help but giggle as his strong arms wrapped around her waist and drew her to him, the warmth, security, and reassurance of his embrace chasing away all the little doubts and fears which had assailed her. The manly, musky scent of his body and the delicate, floral scent of hers seemed to combine with exquisite harmony, and the individual heat of their bodies melded into a single loving warmth. Lilias sighed blissfully, one of her hands resting upon Kal’s as he embraced her, as if silently encouraging him to hold her and never let her go. His cheek upon her cheek, her hand upon his… Yes, she would be happy to end each day just so. She could feel his dormant, thinly-clothed manhood pressing gently against the warmth of her rear, but the large organ no longer frightened her, and her trust in Kal’s honor was so great that she knew she would remain unmolested throughout the night. As he kissed her cheek and wished her goodnight, Lilias nestled gently against him, her eyes closing as she whispered “Goodnight, Beloved. I love you.”

It did not take long for her to sink into slumber, and when she did, the girl’s dreams seemed to take her on a tour of her and Kal’s history, beginning with the very first day they had been introduced. She remembered being a girl of twelve in a crowded room full of adults who towered over her, all of them drinking or laughing or trading witty insults. Painfully shy, she tended to avoid those who seemed to take the most notice of her, particularly the one lord who leered and called her “a fine young filly.” She saw her father sitting in a dark corner, his fair head resting in one hand in a gesture of unhappiness. Her mother on the other hand, was talking and laughing with a handsome young dandy who had just inherited a great fortune. Lilias came closer, her innocent eyes full of worship and adoration for the lovely woman who had given her life. Malista N’Mosran, who had insisted her husband take her name, was a beautiful woman, tall, dark, and shapely, with raven black hair and piercing ruby red eyes. She had a seductive, purring way of speaking which drew the listener closer, and a trilling laugh which sounded like the ringing of a dozen tiny silver bells. Though a ruthless tyrant in her own home, Malista was a perfect lady in public; calm, witty, elegant, and always on the cutting edge of fashion. Tonight she wore a daring creation of wine red taffeta, and as she refilled her companion’s glass, she murmured something in his ear which made his face flush and his nostrils flare with excitement. Lilias could have looked at her mother for hours. How pretty she was, how confident, how graceful…

As soon as Malista noticed her daughter loitering near her, her expression changed, her eyes seeming to glint with icy displeasure and her red lips forming into a cruel smirk. “Run away, white rabbit.” she said in a light tone which was nevertheless a command “Play outside with the others before you are eaten.” Lilias had obediently fled, the laughter of her mother’s companion following her until she was at last in one of the lovely gardens surrounding the Councilman’s mansion. What a beautiful garden it was, full of colorful, fragrant flowers covered with silvery drops from the previous night’s shower. Lighting up with happiness at the sight, Lilias made her way through the lush, sparkling beds, counting on her fingers while taking great care to avoid the large mud puddles which were scattered upon the green pathways. She loved flowers and took great delight in discovering new species or varieties, and it did not take long for her to find just such a specimen. It was a rose bush with beautiful white flowers tinged with pink at their centers. As its petals fell they seemed to create a romantic confetti of delicate snowy-white hearts, and Lilias’ ruby colored eyes sparkled with joy and awe at the sight of this lovely new discovery. Cradling one of the fragrant blossoms in her hands, the girl had just bent forward to inhale its sweet perfume when disaster struck.

Round, boorish, spoiled, and not especially bright, Phillip had a cruel, selfish nature and, like most bullies, a knack for sniffing out the most vulnerable person of a group. A perfect gentleman only when under his mother’s eye, Phillip was the terror of any child smaller than himself, and they all did their upmost to avoid him. Lilias was no exception. Small, shy, and timid by nature, she was in many respects the perfect victim, but had previously escaped Phillip’s abusive grasp by running away at a greater speed than the heavy older boy was capable of matching. The Councilman’s son had not yet developed an eye for feminine beauty, but if he had he might have admired the young girl’s gazelle-like swiftness and grace as she fled from him. The sight of so many lovely flowers had prevented Lilias from putting up her usual guard, and by the time Phillip had noticed her, she was completely engrossed and vulnerable. Like a spider approaching a fly, the bully crept silently to her side, and before the girl knew what was happening she was suddenly shoved by the much stronger boy, letting out a cry before landing on her rear in the middle of a large puddle. Lilias’s rose-colored gown, her shoes, and her stockings, all of which had been made especially for that party, were now splattered and stained with mud, and it seemed to take the girl a few moments to realize just what had happened. She looked up at the towering juggernaut as he pointed and laughed, her face a pale mask of shock and horror. She had felt so pretty in her new dress, but now… now…

Lilias tried hard not to cry, but her ruby red eyes sparkled with tears and her bottom lip quivered as a sob choked her throat. Her distress seemed to delight Phillip all the more, but as he laughed again and bent over to retrieve a glob of mud to fling at her, the girl suddenly noticed an even taller boy standing behind him, silhouetted against the light like an angel. In keeping with this first impression, the tall boy kicked the unwary bully with such force that Phillip fell face-first into the mud and slid all the way to the girl’s feet before stopping, his visage caked with brown muck as he lifted his head to confront his attacker. The tears had dried from Lilias’ eyes, and she looked on in awe-inspired silence as the handsome older boy intimidated Phillip with his flashing golden eyes and aggressive tone of voice. The mud-faced menace fled as fast as his stocky legs could carry him, and Lilias was left alone with her guardian angel. Even when he smiled and helped her to her feet, the girl was captivated by the warm, golden gaze of her savior, her ruby eyes looking deeply into his with dumbstruck wonder. As the angel introduced himself as Kalinthor D’Argost, Lilias suddenly remembered hearing his name discussed. He had been away studying for a year, which is why they had not yet been introduced. To the mud-spattered twelve year old, this fifteen year old boy had the appearance of a god, and as she forced herself to curtsy gracefully and reply “L-L-Lilias N’Mosran… my Lord…” she could feel something powerful taking place within her heart. As she looked into Kalinthor’s eyes, Lilias heard a voice from her heart saying “Someday you will belong to this man, body and soul, and he to you” and it seemed as though every other concern had melted away in the presence of this overwhelming truth.

Perhaps able to see how awestruck and grateful she was despite her silence, the older boy had smiled kindly at her and removed his jacket, insisting that she slip it on to help conceal her muddy dress. Lilias had meekly protested, afraid of getting such a fine garment dirty, but he seemed to care more for her than his clothes, and as he gently led her back toward the great mansion, she found the courage to ask “Are… Are you an angel?” The young D’Argost had smiled mischievously in a way she would soon come to love, and his eyes glowed like twin embers as he replied simply “Almost.” Under normal circumstances, Lilias would have been shamed to tears to appear before company in mud stained finery and a man’s jacket which was too large for her, but at this moment nothing seemed to matter but Kalinthor, and as he asked her to dance she had accepted without caring as to what anyone else thought of her. Round and round the young couple had twirled upon the dance floor, their steps perfectly in tune, their eyes never parting as they either spoke of whatever popped into their heads, or remained in enthralled silence. Song after song, dance after dance the offspring of the houses of D’Argost and N’Mosran remained locked in their whirling embrace, seeming to float amongst the clouds as the people around them watched, some with disapproval, some with surprise, some with humor, and some with kindhearted pleasure. They indeed made a handsome couple, he as golden as the sun, she as pale as the moon. Was this love, or infatuation? And what would their families do if it became serious?

It was only when her father came to fetch her that the real world once more intruded, and though she was usually a calm, obedient child, Lilias had been desperate, almost frantic to stay. What is she never saw him again? What if this was their only night together? Her father, kinder and more understanding than her mother would have been, assured her that the young Lord D’Argost would be at the next ball, but it was only when Kalinthor himself promised to be there that she at last agreed to leave. After a long goodbye, during which more was said by their eyes than their lips, Lilias was half-dragged, half-carried away from the only man she would ever love, her eyes never leaving him until he was completely out of her sight. Even as their carriage drove away into the night, Lilias had stared back at the great house, wondering if her angel was looking back at her. A seed of love had been immovably planted in the young girl’s heart, and soon its roots were so deep that to pull it out would have meant her death. It would be this love which made the next day’s punishment tolerable, this love which sustained her until their next meeting, this love which took the place of air and sunshine in her list of what was most necessary to her. It was this love which had given her hope and patience for six years, and even as she slept, Lilias was conscious of the unity and joy which would at last arrive with the dawn.

Tomorrow… Blessed, blessed tomorrow…

 

[Talon]

Kal awoke several times throughout the night. Not in fear as if fresh from a nightmare, but in awe, as if graced by a god’s presence in his dreams that beckoned him to awaken and observe the magnificence of the creature lying beside him. And observe her he did. He watched the slow rise and fall of her chest, felt the slow steady beat of her heart at rest. Magnificent did not begin to describe her. Perfection was close, but yet fell short. Perhaps in the tongue of the heavens there was such a word, but Kal was unaware of its existence. How strange that such a marvelous woman had come from such a twisted and demonic bloodline. He could not imagine that her traits were valued in the underworld where her distant ancestral bloodline originated from; had they not bred out the traits that they considered to be weaknesses through the process of natural selection? Lilias’ existence could only be explained as a genetic defect, an aberration. She was so loving, gentle and kind. So thoughtful of those around her that she at times neglected her own needs. Had she been born a D’Argost, or of any other Celestial bloodline, she would have been raised to the Heavens as a shining example of the traits such a family held in high regard. As it was she had been chastised, degraded and forever looked down upon by her own family. This weighed heavily on Kal’s heart, that his love had been forever cursed by her family for embodying the virtues that caused him to be most drawn to her. He vowed to remind her often that she was special to him, that she was the very heart that beat in his breast, and that not everyone shared the opinion of the N’Mosrans regarding her character.

His honor, and therefore hers, held true through the night, each content only to bask in the warmth of the other's loving embrace. It was with great reluctance that Kal rose from his bed with the dawn, careful not to awaken her as he did, before dressing himself in a simple pair of slacks to conceal himself decently. He hurried downstairs, carefully opening the door before quietly moving down to the kitchen. He bid the cook good morning, and placed an order for the immediate preparation of his love’s breakfast. He would serve her in bed, so he must make haste lest she stir before he finished. The cook set about his task as Kal hurried from the tower, running barefoot across the grounds of the Estate in order to reach the garden. He rushed along carefully trimmed rows of hedges, dodged around the occasional stone fountain and ducked beneath a few low hanging branches in his quest to pick a fresh handful of Lilias’ favorite flowers. An outside observer might think he was set to task by a harsh master due to the speed of his run, but the wide smile on his face betrayed his joy and willingness in the act. Satisfied that he had gathered enough to make a fine bouquet to adorn the breakfast tray, Kal ran the considerable distance back to the tower. The cool morning breeze felt good against his bare chest, whipping his hair back as he ran. He felt like a boy on the way to deliver flowers to his first love. He was in fact a man, but Lilias was his first love, and soon to be only wife.

Kal burst through the doors of the tower and into the front hall, skidding to a halt in front of the door to the kitchen. A few of the servants had gathered to observe the scene as he came bustling into the kitchen, flowers in hand. Among them was Meril, who upon seeing his hasty entrance hurried to find a vase suitable for his handful of flowers. The cook was already placing steaming dishes onto a wooden tray, the undercook slicing fresh fruit beside him. Kal stopped for a moment, looking around at his servants, who to him were more like an extended family than hired workers to order about at his whim. “Thank you all…I don’t have the words to express my joy upon seeing you gathered in such a manner…so just my thanks will have to suffice. And a much deserved holiday tomorrow for all who work under this roof. Spend it with your families…I know I will be.” The one’s not busily preparing the meal cheered and clapped as Kal waved them off graciously. “Now, out of my way! There is a woman upstairs awaiting her wedding day morning feast!” They laughed at his words, stepping aside so Kal could retrieve the tray. Meril handed him a delicately formed crystal vase in which Kal stored the flowers, and setting it on the tray amongst the places and saucers he turned to the stairs. He walked carefully up them with all the haste he could manage, eager to present her with the meal but cautious not to fall and ruin it.

Finally reaching the level of his chambers he slowly nudged the door open with the tip of his foot, annoyed by the small creak that issued from the hinges. It was not loud enough to wake her, however, and as he walked into the room he saw that she was still lying in the position in which he had left her. He moved to the side of the bed slowly, cautious of slight rattling of the plates that his movements caused. He set it down on the bed across her hips, when she sat up it would be just level with her chest. Kal pulled a single rose from the vase; it was of the same variety as the one that she had attempted to admire when she had been accosted by the bully so many years ago, a white bud with a hint of pink at the center of each petal. Kal reached across her with the flower, brushing it lightly across her cheek. “Awaken my love. Our day has finally arrived, and I would see you satisfied from the very start of it.”

 

[Lots_Daughter]

Lilias had slept soundly throughout the night, secure in her beloved’s embrace both in reality and in her dreams. She dreamed of the day she and Kal were betrothed, of the blissful happiness that had sparkled within both of their eyes as they danced to celebrate a future of wedded love. Lilias went over all of the little happy memories which had meant so much to her, such as when her brave warrior had patiently aided her in winding a ball of yarn, or when he had promptly climbed up a tree to retrieve her hat which had been blown off in the strong spring wind. She had begged him not to, declaring that she would rather lose the hat than see him injured, but he had gallantly replied that he would gladly risk injury in order to spare her any inconvenience. How her heart had throbbed with fear and admiration as he climbed, terrified that he might fall, yet thrilled that he would take such a risk for her. Once Kal was safely on the ground again, the hat in his hand, he had presented it to her elaborately, making her giggle despite her intense relief. Lilias had tried to make him promise never to be so foolish again, but he had grinned in that wicked way she so loved, replying “Poor Lilias, soon to be the wife of a man who can’t help but go to irrational lengths – or heights – to impress her.” He had stroked her cheek tenderly as he said it, and as the girl found herself gradually awaken from her dream, she again seemed to feel something soft and gentle caress her cheek.

Lilias looked lovely as her eyelids fluttered open, her ruby red eyes filling with delight at the sight of her beloved. A night of happy dreams in Kal’s arms, the assurance of his love, and knowledge of what this day would bring had restored her rosy bloom, and as she looked into his warm, golden eyes, she sighed blissfully. “Oh, Kal... To begin every day so.” It was only when she sat up that Lilias noticed the breakfast tray, gasping with surprise and delight at the romantic gesture. “Oh, Kal! Oh, my darling… Breakfast in bed together... what a perfect beginning to this blessed day.” Noticing the roses upon the tray, Lilias' eyes filled with love and tenderness, her gentle hands accepting the one he now offered. “Oh Kal... you remembered. Our roses...” Holding the fragrant, thornless bloom to her heart, the girl looked up into her lover’s eyes, her face seeming to shine with purest joy as she smiled. “Beloved… will I ever be worthy of you?”