Page 20

Eli

I could hear the explosion all the way from the training grounds. I needed to cool off from my anger. So what better way than to do some light training.

I would be lying if I said it didn't shock me when I saw the mess before me.

Of course, she would do this, honestly, can't she be a little bit more mature?

I rolled my eyes at the sight; another tantrum, great. Staring at the girl before me I couldn't help but frown at her disheveled attire. What in the lords is she doing? Why the bloody hell is she so catatonic all of a sudden? Lords know any man in his right mind would turn tails the other way at the sight of mascara streaming down her eyes. Lipstick was smudged around her lower right lip. She looked like one of those street mongrels. The ones who were always hustling for their next victim. She was nothing but a scowling red mess. I looked over at the pillow lying half-mauled by the bed. Lords help me. Sighing I dragged a hand down my face trying to calm my own rage down.

"What in the world is the matter with you?" I asked. Turns out it's not something you wish to say to a screaming banshee.

Glaring at me, I could feel the death looming in the air. As if that was going to deter me; she could hold a knife to my neck and I wouldn't flinch. Rolling my eyes, I flicked my hand once more, fixing the mess of a bear cave she’d turned her room into. The lights, which had once flickered like an abandoned home, now glowed a bright amber as I gestured to the bed.

"Calm down, let’s talk. Lords know you have much on your mind." Despite my reasonable request, she didn't move. I frowned, glaring down at her. Her nose flared, eyes glowing like the golden flames of hell, her hair as bright as an exploding sun. Well, shit, this might be worse than I thought. Could she even hear me?

"Everetta!" I warned, glowering down at her, arms crossed. I released some of my magic to tamp down the roiling heat sweltering the room.

“No, don’t fucking touch me!” she screeched. This normally would get her to snap out of it, but in her current state, it was only making it worse. The heat seemed to have intensified the more I released my ice.

What in the world is going on?

Scanning over her body, I noted the bloodied clenched fists, and enlarged pupils, and I have no doubt her toes had sprouted claws under her heels. Teeth clenched, brows drawn together, muscles tensed.

Shit.

Quickly moving over to the side, I’d just narrowly missed her sharp talons before having to dodge again.

"What the bloody hell do you think you're doing Everetta?!" I fumed, flashing behind her and restraining her wrists before she could strike me again.

“No- No don’t fucking touch me!” She screamed again.

Tossing me backward with a flick of her hand, I splayed my palm out, casting a wall of ice to soften my blow. Quickly turning before my front had the chance to hit the cool surface I used the bottoms of my feet to propel myself off my ice, knowing full well where she was going to appear next. After all, I did have a lifetime of experience babysitting her. Sure enough, there she was, a claw catching the ends of my hair, if narrowly. Damn it, I'm too drained from that ordeal with Lucarious, the bastard just had to make me use my magic. Now I am too tired, as much as I hated to admit it I sure would love one of my younger brother’s little energizing potions.

Does she even know what she's doing?

Casting a shield around myself, I blinked as my hand swerved, grasping the dagger coming straight for me. Blood dripped down from my clenched fist around the blade. I could feel my skin tearing as she pushed, trying to nick my left eye out. Damn. I underestimated her speed. I should have known; she's always like this when she was angry. But why? I mean, I get why; Flynn turned out not to be Flynn, but she didn't know that, right?

Kicking her hard in the ribs, I managed to free myself without having a dagger plunged in my face. I couldn't say I escaped uninjured. My right hand was sporting a thin long slice across the palm. Damn. There was blood dripping from her long sharp crescent fingertips, not to mention I was already feeling the drags of using all my magic. Slow from the burn out I didn't see her hand reaching for me until she managed to sear the center of my chest. Just because I was running low on magic didn't mean it was the same case for her. A burning red handprint marked where she had stained my skin before I managed to jump back from the pain. I'll fix that later.

Feeling a punch as strong as a strike of lightning reverberating in my back, I gasped for air. Barely catching myself before my face kissed the floor. I flashed a good distance from her before I nearly had my head sliced off. Blinking, I looked up. The sight nearly caused me to pause. I would have too if she didn't flash in front of me, swiping her talons against my face. Damn. I pulled back just nearly enough to only receive three shallow claw marks indented across my right cheek. I could feel the trickles of blood rolling off my cheek.

Flashing constantly, I tried to throw her aim off. No good. This wasn't enough. My magic supply was waning fast.

"Everetta please, you need to let me help you. You're not in control right now!" I barked as I tried dodging her following attack.

In the next second of me flashing, she was in front of me, claws extended. How is she so fast? How could I possibly get her down? I can't even touch her without getting torn to pieces and this is without her using magic. I need to end this now. I can't have the servants getting wind of this commotion. It might hinder my plans for the throne.

Casting a quick chant, I cast a sleeping rune, I mean ruin, towards the ground. Now all I have to do is lead her there and... Shit! She was only getting quicker. Swinging back, I grimaced at the searing pain in my arm. Damn. Noting the near-white bone under the mess of crimson, I grimaced. But now was not the time to heal myself. I can only halt the bleeding for now. With my arm hanging loosely by my side and not wanting to lose it, I had to run towards the damn circle. Faintly I could hear someone say,

"What's going on here?!" But I couldn't risk the chance of getting distracted.

“No- No- No” She was muttering something as she clenched her head but that wasn’t stopping her from launching herself at me.

Chasing after me, she nearly reached me until the light poured from the circle entrapped her. For a moment, I thought it wouldn't work, but after a second, her eyes blinked slowly as she swayed on her feet. “No, no, not again, please no-” She managed to utter before collapsing to the ground.

I could feel my own blackout inching towards me, but not right now, I need to get her under control. Perhaps it was a memory that had brought her to this state. Scooping one arm under her neck and another around her waist I flashed both Everetta's unconscious body and my own over to her bed. I used the remnants of my power to remove the memories that were causing her so much harm.

Forcing out the words from my lips I called out Lucarious' name before darkness enveloped me.

My headache feels like a stampede of seven hundred elephants in my head. Not to mention, my arm feels like a bloody beast went right ahead and bit a chunk of it.

"Morning sunshine," Lucarious' all-too-cheery voice drawled from the seat beside me. Sitting up, I tried recalling the events of the other day. Everetta… right, she was having another tantrum. Lords, she nearly ripped me in half.

"Did you heal her?" I removed my covers finally noticing the chunk of bone that was my arm. I glared at the man before me. Really? Couldn't he have given me the same courtesy? I know he healed her, the question was just a confirmation. He always did love her, in his own way. Well, at least he stopped the blood with a spell. I could recognize the scent of his magic from a mile away. The ashy burnt smell of smoke was like the burning fires of hell. Lucarious smiled devilishly. I glared at him.

Lucarious shrugged. "Of course I did. I'm a gentleman, aren't I? Besides what the gods happened? I walked in to see what the fuss was about, and yes, I also helped erase the little disturbance from everyone's minds if you were wondering. Anyhow there I was by the door seeing you and Ev go about it like some wild animals." He drawled, all nonchalance gone as his steely blood-red eyes stared back at me. I shook my head.

After all, we all knew how bloodthirsty Everetta could be. I sighed, flipping my good hand over my mangled one. How much damage did she do? If I hadn’t managed to stop her what would have happened?

"She hasn't woken has she?" I made sure to check in on her myself, using my magic to sense if hers had stirred yet. Ensuring that her energy was still in that room I sighed a breath of relief. Lucarious must have moved me to my room after the whole ordeal.

In case she does wake I'll cast another sleep spell under her bed. It's best if she doesn't wake up until I find a solution to contain her anger.

Why did she even get angry? Honestly, sometimes she could be such a child.

"No, I checked on her before and it seemed like she was asleep, out cold if you ask me," Lucarious lifted a shoulder before furrowing his brows in confusion.

"What is it?" I frowned back at the confused man before me.

As if just coming back to the present Lucarious flashed his signature grin, “Nothing. Just worried. I mean that was quite the little explosion she had."

"She’s not herself right now. Quite frankly, I don't have time to deal with her. I've placed a sleeping ruin under her; don't destroy it unless you want to be mauled to death. Needless to say, make sure no one but us is allowed in that room, not even that bloody witch of a sister you have. I have no doubt she must have angered Everetta in some way" I proclaimed, causing Lucarious to roll his eyes. The man was too protective of his younger sister, or perhaps I should say he loved his sister all too much, I suppose I could relate. I wouldn't want anyone to bad mouth Snow.

"Why do you guys always suspect my sister for everything? Maybe this is just because she’s been away from Flynn, you know the real one, for a while now. As much as I detest the idea. She needs him unless we want her to get even more unhinged. Speaking of which, are you really just going to let that fake prince stay here?" Lucarious questioned, defending his sister as always. I shrugged at the second part. I honestly don't know. I mean in a way he was blood-linked to me now, which meant he was family.

"Your sister has tried to harm Everetta several times already, as we all know she's even attempted to kill her once. I, for one, don't have the time for her little shenanigans. Besides, with or without the real Flynn, Everetta doesn't just go on a sudden tantrum for no reason. The distance hasn't caused any harm to me so far, I don't see how she would have suddenly gone wild for nothing. Your sister must have done something to make her go bonkers all of a sudden. Now leave, I do need to get some rest and before you even think about killing me in my sleep I'll have you know I'm not so depleted of magic I couldn't end you unconsciously." I growled glaring at the King of Blood and Fire, who rolled his eyes yet again in turn.

To ensure he kept the bloody hell away from me I spelled my door so that no one could enter once Lucarious had left.

From the moment I s aw it—the orange-shaded sky, the dying embers of the sun—I knew this was a memory.

A memory I had wished never to see again. It was a perfect day, to play, to frolic in the tall grass of the southern tribal lands. Unfortunately for me, I never had the chance.

As always, I sat there in my little section of the hut, eyeing the small cubs and their friends playing. I watched, through the makeshift window of my hut, how the mothers would train and teach their cubs the ways of their family trade, whether it be with the spear, sword, or even how to use a simple dagger. I longed for my mother to do the same, to teach me how to wield the weapon posted on my nightstand. No one would give one to me, so I made my own. I looked down at the blank canvas before me. I—I shouldn't think about these things. After all, I was a boy, and boys aren't allowed such things here.

Sometimes though, I wished I had been taken in by my father, a Wolf King, or so my mother had told me. Alas, I couldn't. My mother never told me why, just that I was a bastard son and would never be treated well if I had gone with my father. Yet, I couldn't stop thinking how this life wasn't any better either. I know I shouldn't think about these things. I should be grateful she decided to keep me but I couldn’t help but wonder.

My mother was the chief; she was the leader of our tribe, and someday I will be too. She'll teach me in time, the ways of the sword, even if I am a boy because I was her only child and the only heir to claim the position after my mother. I must be patient. Yes, I will be the first-ever male chief of my tribe. The first male lion to take the role. I smiled just thinking about my future, and how I would change things for the male cubs here. For the rare occasion that a pure male lion cub is born, they are banished from the tribe the moment they turn three. Sometimes if the mother is kind, the male cub is allowed to stay until he is five sun cycles.

When I become the leader, I'll change that, I'll allow for both female and male cubs to stay and go as they wish. I'll permit them to train if they want to, no matter their birth gender. I will never let anyone else be discriminated against like I am. But I should be happy; my mother was a kind fae; she kept me and didn't abandon me. Despite my different skin color and eyes. How I longed to have the same as my mother, as the rest of my pride. Everyone else was far more tanned than I was. They had the golden kissed skin I longed for. I could never seem to change the pale shade of mine. No matter how much I basked in the sun it never changed.

I stared at the small dress decorated with the entwined vines of the forests I read so much about. I liked their green colors, I wish there were trees in the desert. Picking up the golden-brown chalk beside the paper, I was about to start again on a design my mother would never see, never approve of, never love—just like me.

For as long as I can remember, I have always loved drawing and designing new clothes. I just loved seeing the new combinations I could make. It gave me an escape, some control over my life.

I was starting on a new design when suddenly, my maid—or nurse, as my mother liked to call her—barged into my room. "We need to leave no—" I couldn't hear her last words as her mouth blossomed into a bright crimson, like those of the prey we feasted upon as they breathed their dying breaths. Something was off. I looked lower at the glimmering metal that had caught my attention.

"Fuck! You should have waited for her to shift. Now look at what you did," a gruff male voice bellowed. How did I know? Well, everyone here had pretty soft and high-pitched voices, and my nanny always told me male voices sounded deeper, less elegant. She said my voice would get lower too someday, become unruly, but I don't want it to. I didn’t want to be more different than I already was from all the girls.

"Well, how was I supposed to know? Her fuckin' hair looks just like fur. Wild bitches," another male voice spat. His tone oozed malice as slimy laughter echoed around me.

I realized this one was holding a spear, a spear that shone crimson against the light of my window hole. We lived in small huts made of mud, stone, and sand.

Was he the one who stabbed my nanny? Where was my mother? I looked back out the window. My heart raced a rapid beat as I stood on tiptoes to look out the large hole carved into the wall. Everyone was crying. Why were they crying? Screams—some of war, some of pain. People were running, both in lioness form and human form.

I wondered why I couldn't transform. No, Mother told me; I was a bastard, that was why. I was a mixed breed. That was why I couldn’t shift and run with my pride.

Had these men come to kill me too?

I turned back around to see the men still arguing.

"Oh, shut up. Go pack er' with the others. An' when the boss asks how we make such littl' prfit' you tell him it your fault," the other man said with a weird accent and a very peculiar appearance. How do I put it? It was like no one's ever taught him the alphabet.

"Wait, there' a kid. What we do with ‘im?" the one with the bloody spear asked, now holding my nanny over his shoulder. She dangled there her form lifelessly swinging from side to side. Like a doll with cut strings. I would be lying if I said I wasn't a little scared. Where was my mother? Was she ok?

The man’s hands were on her behind. How inappropriate.

Wait, could these men be the hunters the tribe always talked about? The one who hunted us? Who hunted those who could shift? But why? I don't understand, aren't shifters the most powerful fae, only strong fae could shift, right? That's what I have always been told, that's why I wanted to shift too, because I know I'm strong enough. But if we are then why? Why hunt shifters? Why did my nanny die?

"You shouldn't put your hands on a woman's behind; it is very disrespectful, sir," I whimpered, frowning a little at their poorly dressed forms. Why did I just say that? No, I have to stand my ground if my mother were to come in and see me cowering she would lecture me again. I would have disappointed her again. I would only prove the tribe right, that men were weak. I am not weak. They were bulky, much more than my nanny and mother. His clothes were of such awful material, maybe it was straw?

The first man smiled at me, though it wasn't a kind one. I could read his malicious intent from all the way down to my toes.

"Well, how rude of him," the first man said again. His attire was slightly better than the second and his words more refined, I think.

As if humoring me, the first man rearranged the second man's hand from my nanny's lower region to the middle of her back instead.

"Are you going to kill me?" I asked, scowling, trying my best to maintain a brave face, but my will was slowly deteriorating. I could feel a slight discomfort in my lower regions.

They needed a shave. Their skin was also very tanned. But I don’t think they're fae. I’ve heard little of fae hunting tribal women. Most were humans. Were they humans? If they were, why do they seem so menacing, shouldn't-shouldn't they fear us? I felt a wet patch creeping through my pants.

"No, we'll sell you. A male cub is pretty rare, after all. We’ll use you to make up for that one," the first man said, thumbing to my nanny. I nodded, holding my wrists out. After all, I was sure no one else was going to save me. Everyone hated me, except for some newborns, before they really knew anything. I wanted to live, if I didn't go with them, they might kill me.

"Well, what a nice little boy. Tie ‘im up," the first man gruffed out. At least I wouldn't die. Besides, mother might save me. I think—no, she—will she?

I was tossed into a wagon, my head thumping the wooden planks first, with other cubs of my tribe, who seemed to still hate me. I mean I was a bastard after all, and a male cub at that. Once the doors closed I was glad I was tossed so roughly onto the wooden planks it helped prepare me for the onslaught of pain pressing into my back, front, skull, and spinal cord.

"You call yourself a fucking lion?!" A woman cried to my right.

"What a disgrace, did you see how he willingly let them capture him? He didn't even try to fight back." Another raged to my left.

How did they even see? Looking up through eyes already swelling up I noticed the bars near the roof. There was a wide enough gap between each bar, so maybe that was how they saw.

I figured, I just wanted to live- no I was wrong I'm sorry- I'm so sorry. Mother told me I shouldn't cry but I can't help it. It hurts, it hurts, why do they hate me so much, what did I do wrong? I couldn't help the tears that stained my cheeks and before I could give into the obsidian hovering near my vision I could hear the scorn in another of the tribe's cubs. "Ew, he's crying, what a wimp." Her words were an accurate description of me. She was right I should have fought, I shouldn't have given in, I should have surrendered my life.

Even in my abyss I couldn't help but hope that my mother was ok. I wonder if she beat the hunters and helped regain my pride's stability.

But then the door opened again, the hunters, the human hunters, was it them, why were they rejoicing? Sobs? Who was that? I moaned as my consciousness returned. I turned as the woman behind me also twisted to get a glimpse of the human by the doors.

Everyone was now sporting eyes dripping with sand-encrusted salt water as they tried to hold in their own whimpers, biting their lips till blood dripped down. It was only then I noticed what those hunters were holding. Hair as golden as the sun dropped down like that of our great willow tree. No longer were they dancing with joy and hope it hung in damp crimson lumps. Utter horror swept through the wagon at the sight. It was then and only then I allowed myself to feel the sensation of wet stains trail down my face as I watched the men, the humans rejoice.

Mother-no-no I-no. It-it's my fault if-if only I'd just been a little stronger if only I'd escaped, maybe my mother wouldn't-maybe I could have helped prevent this, I-I-I should have been the one to fall instead. Visions blurred and filled with grief I watched as those humans celebrated for what? My mother's death? "Hahaha! No more bitches trying to stop our hunt! Ya!" A male rejoiced, stabbing a cup into the air as a symbol of his excitement. I was only able to understand why my tribe hated males as I got older. It was because these hunters were always those males that had been cast out. The ones with no magic, that they passed off as human.

A paper flew through the open door, landing neatly on the blood-soaked sandy ground. Me, mother, and father- What the hell was I thinking, I can't have that life. I wasn't like them, I wasn't really a cub. I was nothing more than a useless bastard, just like those hunters. No, they were ruthless, I won't be like them. I won't hunt other lions just because of jealousy. I'll protect them.

Gripping my little hand into small balls of anger I looked back up at the haze of red before me. I realized something that day. I was going to be a hunter, but I wasn't going to track down shifters, no, I was going to hunt those humans. I'll track down and kill each and every one of them. I'll show them who was in control. I will watch their blood drip down my own spear as I pierce it through their hearts.

But then again what can I do, I was a useless male human cub with no magic and no mother. All I had was an estranged father I didn’t even know. I've only ever heard of him. A father who no doubt hates me too. That’s ok, that's alright. I am accustomed to this love, to this pain.

A useless cub with a dead mother with no way to avenge her, how pitiful am I? So I didn’t curl up in hopes of protecting myself from the beatings of my fellow pride members. I deserved it, even if we were all just slaves now. I will learn and gain strength through this pain and I will avenge my mother. For she did love me. I know she did, she was just scared of loving me. She had to be after what everyone had called her. They wouldn't have seen her as a leader if she showered me with kindness. If she’d truly hated me then why would she keep the drawings I gave her? She always kept them in those little bins.

A bright light shined down on my face, waking me from the pain and bruises covering my body. The women in my tribe didn't hesitate to show me my mistakes throughout our five-day trip. Beating me with whatever they had, legs, arms, nails, loose planks.

Were we finally at our designation?

The sun rotations through the tiny window in this moving contraption helped me count down my days as my mother had taught me. But I knew I wasn’t going to get any food, it was for the women, for the female cubs, not for a male like me. They told me so as they scrambled for the tossed-in food leaving nothing in their wake.

The footsteps around me were quiet. I looked up, unable to see much from the swelling of both my eyes. I might not get sold now, with all these scars on my skin, not to mention my face is damaged as well. For I am but a male bastard of a once prideful pack, now all dead I presume, or sold like those I was with. Not that I'll be worth much.

"Hey, come on, why are you just lying there? Don't you know how to move? Oh, wait, you're hurt. Man, they treated you poorly huh? Well, they're all asleep now, so if you wanna, you know kill 'em all now, ya can... now would be a great time. I can cut your ropes if that makes it easier. You know I think it's really smelly here." A girl, I think with hair and eyes as golden, no more golden than my mother's, raddled on. I could see her bright hair even through my black and purple eyes. She looked so much like my mother, I thought she might also have been a lioness, but from her manner of speech, it was apparent she wasn't and her attire was not very typical of the cubs from our tribe. Hell, what was she wearing, was that a shirt and pants? Why is she talking so much, ugh my ears? Still, I think she was here to save me.

"Who are you?" I asked and she smiled, beaming at me. I felt that the sky around her glowed as bright as her, too bright for my bruised and bloated eyes. Maybe that was it, just a trick of my mind since I was hurt so much. "Names Everetta, though I‘m kind of not sure what my last name is right now, we'll figure it out together later. Come on I'll help ya kill 'em all, the hunters I mean, not the women unless you want to? No judgment here, I mean maybe a little judgment, they do seem innocent. Then again what would I know, come on let's go." She offered me her hand, her words catching me off guard. Kill? The hunters? What did she have against them? I mean I know why I want them dead, they slaughtered my pride and my mother, but why did she? I turned around to the girls in the cart with me. She sighed but followed my silent question.

In another few minutes she had set me and the others all free, shooing them away, and promising vengeance for them. Even going as far as to tell them about a nearby tribe where they could stay and seek comfort. Though I highly doubt my pride would ever consider that, then again they do seem a bit closer with a stranger than they ever had with me, maybe she was a lioness despite her odd choice of attire. Perhaps from another tribe?

I lowered my gaze hoping not to show the jealous green monster in my eyes. How did she know so much about this area, and why was she even here? No more importantly, why does my head suddenly hurt? Grimacing, I closed my eyes only to be peeling them open as a warm light enveloped my whole body.

"Right, totally forgot, can't do shit with your body all banged up and stuff."

How? Why? Did she just heal me? The girl, Everetta, was offering something to me, a dagger, a little different from the wheat-covered rope daggers we held. This dagger the girl offered had a soft but rough texture. The end was still sharp and pointy, this was all I needed. But- did- Did I really want to do this?

Yes, they killed my mother, and proper tribal rules clearly state that I must avenge my people. So why did my people just leave? I frowned but as I looked around I realized they hadn't, they were all hovering by the edge of the forest, watching me, waiting for my next move. No, they weren't just watching me, they were also watching the girl, Everetta.

Gripping the dagger I had to cast aside my personal feelings, what mattered most was my tribe, our honor, and my mother's honor. I needed to avenge my mother. "You should really fix your speech manners," I said before hopping off the carriage with a smiling girl behind my back as a coppery scent filled the early morning air.

It wasn't long after the slaughter of those men that my memories had returned to me, for a boy of only seven sun cycles it was no doubt horrifying and startling. I thought it might have been some kind of trick by Everetta, but as time passed more and more memories began to flow in and I slowly assimilated to my past life. That was when I knew what I had to do, what I had to stop, because if my memories had fully come back then Everetta's must be coming back soon too. I couldn't let that happen. I couldn't let the past repeat itself, I couldn't lose her again. So- I did what I had to do.

In my past life, I had been thrust into slavery only to escape and find my father. In this life Everetta rescued me and in turn, I got my memories back. As to why she must have rescued me it didn't take much for me to figure out, she must have left herself some kind of message from the past to save me, or to find me. Which meant she was further along in remembering our past, so I had performed the spell just in time, Everetta wasn't the only one to leave herself a message.

I did too.

I knew she was going to find me, and that finding me was going to be her message to her new self if she left any. I understood it was very underhanded, but I had to do what I needed to do, to prevent the past from repeating itself, so I erased her memories after I had gotten her to age us forwards a bit, eighteen to be exact. I left her in a small village cot. I have to admit I was a little worried when she didn't wake up for a couple of days but I could sense when she would wake, her magic would tell me. It would flare up as bright as the two suns of this realm. So when she did, of course, it was tedious to recall everything over again but it was necessary- yes, everything I did was for her. She'll understand one day, she has to.

I smiled. Everetta had always been the first person to show me kindness, the first girl ever to extend kindness to me in this life and my past life. That wasn't why I chose to stay with her through these years and in this life. To not go with my pride but remain by her side. It wasn't because they wouldn't have let me follow them. No, it was because this girl, with bright golden hair and a beaming pair of smiling eyes, was just as sad and lonely as I was. I could read it in both of my lives, the empty emotionless gaze that matched my own. But I would also be lying if I said I didn't sometimes regret my decision especially now that I have all my memories. This brilliant girl with golden curls and ragtag clothes, carrying more power than anyone in all my lives, would always lead us straight to hell.

However, the girl before me didn't know anything—not even the basics of enchantments, ruins, spells, or potions. I mean, seriously, nothing. I thought perhaps, since I only erased a few of her memories, she might still know some spells, or at least some basic commonsense but, when I asked her, she seemed only aware of having another life but oblivious to what life she actually had lived. I would have doubted her claims if it hadn't been for her obvious ignorance towards the world. I mean, seriously, what kind of girl eats a poisonous mushroom when the boy next to her clearly warned her not to?

I mean I told her fifty times, how many more times must I tell her. Hell, I think if I wasn't with her she'd have ended herself by now. Then there was that damn time when I specifically told her, and I mean absolutely under no circumstances, that she should sleep over a bed of markweed. I mean, everyone knew they caused hives to pop out like a virus on the skin. Yet, the next morning what did I find, she was sleeping right there above those very same weeds I had told her not to lay on. No, I would like to revise that statement. It was definitely the biggest mistake in my life to follow this girl. Befriending her in my first life was one thing, but tagging along the second time, after all my memories, must’ve meant I also had a few screws loose.

Chapter 20

Fletcher

We were finally back, I was finally back. Reaching a hand out the window I smiled, watching as the small drop of snow touched the surface of my palm. Closing my eyes I could already taste her sweet orange scent. She was so close now, just a few more days, just a few more hours. I'm coming for you Everetta, my love, my life, my soul.

"Fletcher, we should get going now." My companion, the princess of the Spirit Realm, turned toward me with a smile plastered to her porcelain skin. But don’t let her doll-like features fool you. She was the leader of the secret coup that helped overthrow her father and place her brother on the throne.

It went off without a hitch. In turn, to commemorate his rise to the throne, her brother had been asked to meet with all the realms to announce his rise to the throne. After months and months of house cleaning back in their realm, we were finally able to come back, back to my home, back to the realm of the fae. I smiled. Bowing slightly I nodded.

I was her servant, in this life, her butler, and she was my master. Even if she still refuses to acknowledge the facts. But then again, how could she when she too remembers who we used to be and who we are? Akasuki Shinobi Arizumi Nine-Tails, as her name implies, was a very cunning, stealthy but pure-hearted spirit. But just because she was pure didn’t mean she wasn't willing to do what was needed of her. She showed just how capable a girl was to her father, and the rest of her family, when she slayed a third of her own family to help her brother, who was far less of a tyrant and more open-minded than her father.

"Of course your Highness," I bowed looking up to see the white-haired goddess of the Nine-Tailed Realm, otherwise known as the Spirit Realm.

Akasuki rolled her eyes annoyed by my formal manners. "You know you don't have to call me that." She turned, throwing on a black peasant coat.

I smiled as if to placate her.

We both remembered our former lives, though that should have been impossible, as only those of the Phoenix line can ever recall their past lives. Then again, my love was always making the impossible possible. She must have cast the spell of reincarnation along with an additional spell to help us maintain our memories. However, something must have gone wrong because I wasn't in my original body, despite Akasuki being in her own past body.

How do I know this? Firstly, Everetta would have already been looking for me by now if she had her memories unless she felt guilty, which, in my opinion, she shouldn't be. Secondly, I'd visited her in her dreams once I was able to. I still don't know why I couldn't as soon as I reincarnated, but hey, I was able to now. In her conscious state, my soulmate couldn't remember me. Why else would she be looking for remembrance spells in her dreams? The question was why couldn't she remember, and could my brother remember? I posed this question to Akasuki who seemed all too hesitant to answer, saying something along the lines of not being too sure. However, I suspect that my brother might have had something to do with Evie’s memories, my nickname for the love of my life.

Something fishy was going on, all the more reason to get back to our mates as quickly as possible. But alas, there are just a few more loose ends I must clear before finally meeting my love.

"Your royal highness, you are my master, I am but a mere servant, until my title changes, I can not simply call you by your name, your grace," I replied bowing my head slightly.

Akasuki rolled her eyes, shaking her head as if amused by my words.

I wasn't by any means joking. It was after all only proper for a servant to address his master as such. Since my master was a descendant of royalty and I am a commoner now, I must address her as such.

"Well, whatever, let's just finish up with our scopes of the capital. I'm interested to see how the king had been running his city without the aid of his true son." Akasuki said, throwing in a little dig at the bastard who stole my body.

I smiled as I opened the door for my lady. The only reason we were getting the scope of the land was for one reason and one reason only, to help overthrow another monarch. After all my brother, though no longer by blood was still a brother, will be ascending the throne no matter what happens. I'll make sure of that. Everyone knows a king without the support of his people is no king.

The capital was packed as always, vendors, merchants, kids clinging to the backs of their mothers, children crying over a broken toy, thieves pickpocketing, and husbands beating their wives or the reverse. Walking through the masses I could practically smell the corruption and decay left unhinged around the streets. I have no idea what was going through my present father's head. This was truly unspeakable. Grabbing the hand of a merchant I smiled bitterly.

"I think it would be best if you let go of that poor girl's wrist don't you?" I stared daggers at the man with the unkempt beard.

His rotting teeth sneered back at me. "I'd mind your own business little boy." The man sneered his oil-soaked skin leering down on the girl.

As if that was that the man turned, dragging the poor girl away, yanking his meaty arms from my grip.

Suddenly the man halted. His grip loosened on the girl.

"No-No. I-I did as you asked. I sold them- the girls. No-No I-I didn't." The man stuttered walking backwards, his body trembling in fear.

I turned cocking a brow. Akatsuki shrugged her eyes glowing bright red. It was a good sign that she was using her magic, "He was asking for it."

Rolling my eyes albeit indulgently. We both had no tolerance for these kinds of urchins. The ones who feasted on the bodies of young girls as they cried in pain from the intrusion.

"Hey, we weren't even supposed to be here. If you weren't such a Wolf we would be at the castle by now." She teased, cocking an elegantly groomed brow.

She was right, but who could withstand watching someone being forced against their will? Who could watch someone turn into a slave?

Great and there goes my good mood.

I plastered a placid smile on my face.

"You probably shouldn't kill the man though, we do need him alive for what we want to get," I ignored her words, earning an eye roll from the Princess of Tails.

"Yes, yes, I know. You understand we could’ve already been reunited with them if we didn't have to get this." Akasuki smiled knowingly.

Blushing a little I understood what she meant but I needed this. Trying to change the subject I turned to the frightened little girl. She couldn't have been more than what, twelve? I frowned at the small little bruises popping up from the place the man had grabbed her. The small sticks the girl called her wrists looked so feeble I could crack them with one snap. I sighed at the purple blotches around her arms and legs. Any part of her skin not covered in dirt was sprinkled with bruises and cuts.

"Where are you from?" I asked, walking slowly towards the frightened girl. I felt like a predator as I walked closer to the fragile girl. It was like I was trying not to send my dinner fleeing. No doubt still traumatized by the man we'd just taken care of, the girl trembled in her tattered shoes. I watched as Akasuki placed a calculated jab at the man's thick neck, he was practically like a pig with how big he was. Not soon after her calculated move the bloated nuisance dropped like a cow ready for the slaughter.

Turning back I noted how the girl looked up at me with such adoration I nearly felt sick to my stomach. I looked away hoping to just send her away so we could get back to our task, "T-Thank you so much I-I wasn't sure if-if I would- if I would ever get to see my family again." The girl sniffed snot was nearly dripping down her face, her eyes reddening with no doubt true fear. Smiling my regular mask I tried not to show my disgust at her rags and hopeful eyes.

In a way, I suppose I could relate. I don't know what I would do if I never saw my dear Everetta again, but I wouldn't let that happen, not again. Perhaps it was because of this pity I felt for this little woman that I patted her shoulder, hoping to give my condolences to her sorrow. However, I didn’t invite her to hug me. Her slender, bruised arms wrapped around my body, seeking more comfort than I was willing to offer. Not sure what to do, I patted her back. Trying not to stiffen against her sudden touch. From the corner of my eyes, I could see Akasuki shaking from laughter. I frowned, narrowing my eyes on her, pleading with gaze to my master, although truthfully I shouldn't be, to come and save me. After all, servants didn't ask the master for help; they helped the master. Akasuki shook her head, making me have to endure this torture a little longer. I swear if she gets snot on my shirt I will end her. Or burn the shirt, most likely both. I frowned as I felt the wet stain from the girl's tears seep through the fabric of my clothing to my skin.

Okay, no.

Just as my fingers started to pry the girl apart she pulled away on her own, thank the lords. I mean she was dirty, a tainted commoner. Even if I was a servant now I won't be for long.

"I-I'm so sorry, it's just been so long since anyone's ever helped me." She carried on, a bit of an exaggeration if you ask me. She sniffled, again. I rolled my eyes inwardly annoyed with this little disturbance of my time. I could have been at the auction by now if this ragged stick of a thing moved out of my way. Still, I beamed down at her regretting ever helping this thing.

"Yes, of course. I completely understand." I sympathized, smiling warmly down at her, hoping she would just leave. For lords sake, I was not some teddy bear she could hug. By the shadows, I could see the splotch of snot on my white silk. Well fuck. I guess I’ll be taking an extra hour-long bath today.

"I just, well I was once told that well- umm-" The girl started fiddling with the hem of her ragged dress. I narrowed my eyes, my frown growing deeper. She wasn't- was she? No, she simply wouldn't be so foolish as to-

"Umm- I-" The girl continued as I stared in horror, all while trying to keep my utter disgust from crossing my face. It was taking everything in me to remain smiling even as my stomach was turning inside out. I was so over these games.

"I'm so sorry, but we really must get going-" Akasuki looped her arms in mine. Thank lords she’s finally deemed it merciful to help me.

The girl's sobs seemed to stop as she frowned, blinking, looking at our intertwined arms. No doubt figuring out the little plan Akasuki hoped to sell. I smiled nodding firmly but gently. I still have an image to keep up.

The girl seemed to have uttered a silent "Oh.” as she realized her little blunder. "I-I am sorry, I-I didn't know," she stuttered again. I rolled my eyes inwardly once more. She was so annoying, and I was completely over this.

Smiling outwardly, I pretended otherwise. "Of course, you wouldn’t have. Now, if you don't mind, we do need to go unless you need assistance returning home?" I asked as charming as I could be, wishing she'd just tell us to go. As much as I was annoyed by this girl, she did seem innocent enough.

Weak but innocent, stupid but innocent.

"Oh, I-I-I can find my own way, you've already helped me so much. I-I am so sorry," her face flamed with fire as she spoke. Still, judging by her statement, she seemed to be a Wolf descendant, as if her blue hair didn't say enough. The darker the hair, the more distantly related but still a Wolf. So, I took out a stash of gold coins and tossed them to her. Hopefully, this might help her and her family not wither away too quickly. Having had enough of this I turned. Akasuki's arms still looped around mine, her body shaking with laughter as she covered her petite light pink heart-shaped mouth.

"I hope you enjoyed that," I muttered bitterly with a smile still frozen on my face, my words like frost coating the windows.

"Oh yes, most definitely. It’s always so fun going out with you." Akasuki playful swatted my arm with her free hand, rolling into another fit of laughter.

"I'm so glad I could amuse you so much,"

I couldn’t help but laugh along with the annoyances that leeched onto me just because of the little kindness these women see.

It used to be fun, though, before Everetta came along, to help them, to watch them be charmed by my looks and status. Then I'd use them, whether it be for pleasure or something else. I’d make them fall for me so hard that they can't think straight. I always tested my aphrodisiacs on them as well. Once their hearts were mine, I'd drop them, crush them, and watch their desperate little faces completely break. Ahh, it was so fun. Plus, I was able to gather good information by using them. I guess old habits die hard.

I'll be honest when I first saw Everetta crying, I had the same intention, to just have fun with her, but lords, she saw through everything. Aside from my family, she was the only other fae to see through my smile.

"I swear, just because someone comes along to help doesn't mean they're looking for a future marriage partner," I bitterly tossed out, recalling all the encounters I've had in both the fae and spirit realms.

"True, but not all fae have the pleasures of growing up in a castle as us." She was referring to all the women in my life. My sister, my love, and my master, for now.

"Either way they shouldn’t just jump the bones of every ‘knight’ they see. Perhaps that is why so many men would deem them an easy lay," I shrugged, earning a frown from my master.

"Fletcher! How dare you, just because some women are easy doesn't mean they should be taken advantage of. I would expect a man such as yourself to be more open-minded. I mean, shouldn’t men feel the need to protect the weak instead of feasting on them like that pig, especially you Wolves? I thought they were the strongest in the realm, both the men and women." Akasuki glared, reprimanding me, wrath visible in her red eyes.

"Besides, why did you even offer to escort her home?" She added, cocking a brow at me.

Shrugging I smiled softly, “I had to keep up appearances."

I couldn't just tell her it was instinctual, again old habits die hard. Those types of girls fall so easily for the knight in shining armor. Hmm, now that I think about it two-thirds of the women I used to save fell harder whenever I played that role. I nearly truly smiled at the memories, how those women would weep, confusion and heartbreak written all over their faces as I slashed their delicate skin, watching the red blossom along the curves of their bodies.

But Akasuki wasn't wrong. It was the duty of the men to protect the women especially if they were weak, and even if they were strong some men would still rape them. At least I never did that. Sure, I played with their feelings a little but as if I'd ever touch such vile women, not when I could have my Evie.

All the more reason for this court to change. It was falling too heavily into the hands of the black market. The royals were nothing but figureheads sitting atop a throne they had no claim on. Hardly any fae seemed to turn toward authority these days. Everyone handled situations with under-the-table money or blackmail. Rumors were left unchecked, and hatred towards their very king and royal family. Hatred for all except one, my dearest little sister.

I smiled as I caught the little rumors of the princess aiding yet another village, orphanage, or simply providing food for the impoverished. Simply put if it wasn't for her the royal family would have been over the throne by now. The issue was with all this popularity towards the princess, how would Eli gain the support he needed for the crown? I'll have to talk to her soon, a war is coming and she can't stay, it would be far too dangerous. She was too sweet for her own good in a realm filled with lies and double-edged swords. Not that she couldn't play the game as well as any other fae but I would much rather not have her do that.

But what was she trying to do? Is she making a grab for the throne? If so, how would Eli react? He's not one to simply bend over and give in and my sister, albeit kind, was not one to back down from a challenge. As for me, I would be tasked with keeping the two sides from killing one another.

Why not go for the throne myself, you ask? Well, I wasn't interested even during my last life. I knew where my position was; it was in my labs with my chemicals and books and Everetta. She was and is all I need.

A throne would just hinder my desires. If I had the crown it would only lead to more work and people to please. I could only take so many pleasantries before I inevitably gave in and murdered the lot of them.

No discoveries or findings, no potions or poisons to dabble with. How dreary of a life that would have been. Whereas in my lab, I would always be entertained . The discoveries I could invent, find, and develop were far more fascinating than sitting still and letting my butt freeze. Then there was her, my Everetta, being a King of Wolves was impossible if I wanted to rule by her side. I would rather have a companion who kept me on my toes, to share my findings with, to have someone who appreciates books and alchemy just as much as I do than a nodding marionette.

An image of her curly blond locks and bright golden eyes splashed through my mind, her joyful baring of teeth as bodies lay at her feet. Mmm, how I’ve missed her so. I loved her energy, her enthusiasm, her sense of justice.

Her .

I just need to finish this, then I can finally see her again.

I can still remember the day we first met in our past life. My father was holding a ball for the Marquis in celebration of his victory in another one of my father's endless wars. When suddenly, shadows started to attack. They had been mercenaries hired from the losing side of that war to assassinate my sister.

I remember the screams of people as they cowered beneath tables and the roars of the wolves as they howled for blood. Above all, I remember her golden hair blowing in a nonexistent wind, held up by the sheer force of her magic.

Unlike other women, she didn't cower. Not only that, she fought with such hunger that I fell for her at first sight. Or should I say I wanted her at first sight. At the time I thought my fascination would wither away. Just a lingering admiration from witnessing her valiant actions. Which was why I tried to play with her a little during that announcement ball in the Phoenix Court.

The way she slit that shadow's throat like butter, her eyes piercing through the night like twin golden moons. Her elegant movements were like dance steps in a ballroom. Through the hurdles of swords and spikes thrown from one side of the room to another, she stood brilliantly above everything. That and her sharp mind, the way she cast and created spells as if it was nothing fascinated me. It tugged at the scientist in me. I guess, you could say my initial draw towards her was because I wanted to find out what made this hero tick, what could make such a spirited fae break .

Yes, I understand I must be crazy to love a blood-hungry witch, to want to break someone so strong they could kill me with just a thought, but well, perhaps it was the Wolf in me, but to see such an alpha female; I nearly fainted from the pleasure at tasting her blood. It soon changed, she’d been the first to pass through that initial fascination. In a way, I suppose she turned my thirst for her blood and despair into love.

Of course, my brother believed I first saw Everetta during his dear friend Lucarious' engagement proclamations. In part it was true. That was where I had first talked to her, and decided that I really had fallen for her, not merely as another subject for my experiments but as a fae. I suppose that was the day my games ended when she saw through my smiles.

"Hello. Hello? Fae Realm to Fletcher? Hello?" Akasuki 's voice rang as I blinked away the blissful memories. I will have more memories with Everetta in this life, no matter what . I'll slaughter anyone who gets in my way, brother or not. I turned smiling down at the master I now served. Akasuki rolled her eyes, obviously figuring out what I had been thinking about.

"You know, sometimes I genuinely wonder how Everetta doesn't see it," Akatsuki frowned, genuine concern shown in her eyes, as I smiled. She was referring to my madness, but what fae didn't have some form of madness in them?

"Whatever do you mean?" I asked, a chill creeping into the alley. We both knew the sudden cold wasn't from the wind. She better not tell her, master or not. I won't hesitate to end her life if she intends to stop me from getting to Everetta.

My brother tried once.

At the time I gave in because Eli was looking after her mental health, to be exact her heart-break from Lucarious. I must admit that time was not my finest moment. I along with Eli or perhaps it was Eli's worries that had spread to me. Thus, I had gone along with his plans as well as hers. I was scared that I too would make her cry, would make her heartbreak like the fae before me. After seeing her cry enough for men and women who couldn't see her brilliance I had to defy my elder brother's orders, and although we didn't have a great long life together during our first life we were still happy, I made her happy for the little while we had together. Which is how I know she loves me too, even if she didn't say it. Call it a gut feeling. I would do anything to get her to smile, truly smile, and not the bull crap she does for Eli and other fae. If she ever does fall out of love with me, I’ll make her see reason again. After all, we were bonded, as Eli came to see. We belonged together . Which is why I won't make the same mistakes this time. I won't let Eli's words twist my decisions.

Dear brother of mine, you sure have a way with words. I do wonder why that is.

Eli never was as intellectually skilled as he was in his swordplay. So how in the lords was he able to convince fae to bend to his will? He never used violence as far as I know. I was his enforcer, so then how? His gift is ice, but his ability- What was his ability? I'll figure it out, he is my brother. If the nice civil way doesn't work I’ll just have to use other means.

"Ugh, you're seriously such a creep," Akasuki wrinkled her nose, a small frown creasing her lips. I smiled, getting lost in my train of thought again. Well, how could I stop myself, I missed her so much. As for my brother, some things were not adding up.

"I hope that gene doesn't run in every member of your family," Akasuki muttered, referring to her bond with Eli. Though he wasn't as persistent as I was, he was still as loyal as all Wolves were. The man did kill nearly all of Akasuki's suitors in my previous life to make a point. All but Lucarious, then again were Akasuki and Lucarious really lovers in the first place? I get the feeling Akasuki would rather cut off Lucarious’ balls than let him touch her in that way.

They did get together during a time when Akasuki and my brother were fighting. She claimed that Eli didn't care enough, that he didn't respect her. Although I could see her point it wasn't so much that my brother didn't respect her but more as if he was always too worried for her he ended up coming out that way. He would send nearly an entire army with her on her visits back to the spirit realm or would insist on coming along with her. He once hired Wolf mercenaries to trail her through her supposed alone time in the capital. Then again it wasn't as if she mourned those suitors. For all of Akasuki's angelic appearance, she was no angel. If you ask me, I think she might have instigated that fight and pursued those suitors just to prove to my brother that she was a very desirable woman, as if he didn't already know that. She wanted to make him act out, to make him jealous.

Their relationship was so weird.

Plus, all her suitors were rebels to the crown. They had betrayed my royal family in one way or another.

Hmm, now that I think about it, it might have been to make my brother even more jealous than simply just dating a random fae off the streets. Getting together with one of his enemies would really tick my dear elder brother off.

"Anyway, we're here. Welcome to the underground market." Akasuki gestured to the stairs leading to the basement of some slum building.

We both gazed at the little auction they had in the black market.

Now it was time to get that gift for my dear Everetta. My little apology for being so late coming back to her.