After a week's journey, Princess Rose, Prince Ron, the guards and the servants that went with them, arrived at the North's main gate. It was very cold so the siblings remained hidden in the carriage while the rest had thick coats on. Their faces were pale. They never knew the North was so cold. How could people survive in such a place?To get to the castle, they had to go through the town. The townspeople all came out to see their soon to be queen but all they saw where half frozen faces and one exquisitely handsome face. It was that of a young man, peeking out of the carriage window. He had soft looking russet curls, brilliant green eyes and a radiant smile. The women who saw this face were swooning. Some men were jealous while others felt it would be nice to have such a beauty to themselves. Prince Ron smiled at every person he made eye contact with. He even winked at some of the women. He felt that Netheridge was full of pretty faces. He hasn't seen a single ugly one. Even the men
Ron nodded and he and Ludiciel started to walk side by side. Ludiciel remained quiet so Ron used the time to look around. His face was straight, devoid of any emotion but his green eyes showed it all. The hidden excitement, the amazement, the joy. He felt like bursting. The Netheridge castle was awesome! It was so large he could hardly see the ceiling but there were lights glowing everywhere, making it look so magical. The walls were painted an icy blue which looked cold to the touch. He wanted to know if it was really cold but that would destroy his princely character so he retracted his hand. He also realized that since they stepped inside, it wasn't cold anymore.Ah pretending was so tiring. He didn't think he could keep up. His back was starting to hurt and his face was feeling a bit stiff. He wondered how his parents could retain such an expression for years. Leo gazed at Ron from time to time. His heart softened at the prince's antics. He knew Ron was a type of person that did
"Do you like him that much, sister?" he asked softly, wanting to make sure.Rose raised her head and looked at Ron right in the eyes. "I've never been so sure about anything in my entire life Ron. I love him and I want to marry him"Ron completely understood what it felt like to love someone even if it's just for a day. His silver haired hero had been on his mind since the day they met. "Don't be sad. I'll go talk to him alright? I'll work something out"The doubt in her eyes were as clear as day. What could Ron do? What had he ever accomplished in his life? Ron didn't like the look. It further strengthened his resolve. "Don't look at me like that sister. You've done so much for me. Let me do something for you too. I'm not saying that I'll succeed but least let me try. You've always told me to never give up without trying haven't you? Do you want to go back on your own words?"Rose shook her head. She couldn't believe Ron remembered such things at a time like this. With that said, al
"I am sorry" King Zedekiel said, standing before Ron. "I didn't want to hurt your sister but I can't go on with this marriage". Every single word spoken was chilling and none of them sounded sincere. As if he was being forced to say it.The hatred he felt was bone deep and he couldn't hide it. He didn't bother trying to sound like he meant what he was saying because he didn't."Why not?" Ron asked. "You asked for her hand yourself and when it was given to you, you want to discard it. Do you think marriage is a joke? Is my sister some toy?" Ron was even more hurt that Zedekiel was right before him but he couldn't recognize him.Then he recalled that he was wearing a disguise that day. That stupid wig and ugly mustache! How he wished he revealed his true identity. Zedekiel shook his head. "I was forced by my Queen mother. The truth is, I do not love your sister. I'll ruin two lives by marrying her. Mine as well as hers. I hope you understand". He talked with a straight face. His words
Zedekiel and Ludiciel froze while Mariel's heart started to beat faster. Before Mariel could answer, Ron sighed and dropped her arm. "Forget it. I'm sorry. I can't do it""What?!" Both brothers shouted. Mariel felt wronged. She wanted to cry."I'm sorry Mariel" Ron apologized again. "I just wanted to prove something to your brother""You!" Zedekiel shouted, jacking Ron up by the collar. "It hurts, doesn't it?" Ron sneered and Zedekiel's hold loosened, gazing at Ron in disbelief. "You don't like seeing your sister hurt just as I don't like seeing mine hurt. Be lucky I didn't go through with the act. I'm not like you. I can't bear to hurt your own sister because she's innocent in all this"Ludiciel let out a tiny smile. So that was Ron's plan. He had also tried to convince Zedekiel not to call it off but he didn't listen. Maybe Ron could make him see reason. Ron placed his palm over Zedekiel's hand. He lightly shivered for the hand was cold. The touch seemed to awaken Zedekiel so he
Prince Ron was running as fast as his legs could carry him, heart thrashing against his rib cage. Why why why why why?! Why did he chose to go snooping around the huge castle? Now he was being chased by so many guards in the middle of the night. If he were caught, Zedekiel would think he came to the North to spy. Ron had never ran so much in his life. He is the lazy type. Always lounging about, eating and reading books. If he ever had the energy to do anything, then it was to prank people or sneak out of the castle.Hearing the thundering footsteps growing louder and louder, Ron increased his speed and took a swift left turn into God knows where.The guards knew the castle like the back of their hands. If he didn't find a place to hide soon, he'd be done for. With this thought in mind, he saw a door that was slightly ajar so he dashed in without a second thought and stealthily pushed it shut. Poor Ron didn't even get a chance to breath when he was suddenly slammed against the door.
Ron looked offended and sad. After everything he went through. Now, if Zedekiel decides to let this get out, he'd be known as the prince who stole berries in the middle of the night. "Look future brother in law, let's keep this between us yeah? No one else needs to know. This will be our very own secret. I won't tell anyone about how you nearly killed me either"Zedekiel scoffed. "I think you've forgotten who's the King here. Who would believe such an accusation? That I, the King of Netheridge, nearly killed a mere prince?""A mere prince?" Ron said, offended. "I'm the future of Ashenmore. If I die, be rest assured that my father will crush Netheridge to the ground""Believe me, that's the only reason I haven't killed you. I won't endanger the lives of my people"Ron wanted to slap this King silly. "Why do you hate me? As far as I recall, we've never met until today. I never even knew a place like this existed. What is it that I've done to you? You know what, whatever it is, I'm sorr
A knock on the door interrupted their conversation. Ron went to open the door and was greeted by a brooding Ludiciel. His long silver hair was packed into a low bun and he was wearing a black and white again. Ron wondered why they all liked wearing such boring colours. As if there weren't any other type of clothing. Look at him for example. He was wearing deep red clothes, studded with shiny blue jewels. Red! The colour of love. Ron looked dashing. Zedekiel definitely has to be affected.Rose was no different. Her yellow gown was form fitting and it cascaded down her body in froths of white and pale blue. Her aurburn curls were packed and decorated with white flowers. Ron's confidence was actually shaky."Time for breakfast" Ludiciel said. The siblings followed Ludiciel to the dining hall. Ron was excited to see King Zedekiel again. After admitting he was lost last night, Zedekiel personally took him to his room. On the way, he had chatted about so many things but Zedekiel only gave
He did that. Those were his. His babies. His very own kids. A low growl rumbled from his chest and without a second thought, he seized Prince Ron’s ankles, spreading his legs wide open with ease. Prince Ron barely had a moment to gasp before Zedekiel wedged himself between them and crashed their lips together, stealing his breath away. The kiss was deep, searing—curling his toes and sending shivers down his spine. Prince Ron clung to Zedekiel, his heart pounding wildly. The naked desire and heat flowing from his beloved's kiss made him feel cherished, adored and wanted in a way that left him breathless. Zedekiel pulled away, giving Prince Ron some seconds to breathe before kissing him again and again. His kisses were filled with adoration as his fingertips traced along every contour of Prince Ron’s body, whispering praises as if uncovering a sacred art. “Every inch of you is perfection,” he breathed, his tone awed and soft, “You are more beautiful with each passing moment and I c
In the now quiet cave, Prince Ron’s heart was pounding fast, his beautiful green eyes wide as he stared at his beloved who stood at the foot of the bed, taking off the purple sash around his waist. His robes loosened and Prince Ron flushed, shuffling backwards on the bed. "W-What are you doing?" He stuttered nervously. He had only been complaining about things that may happen in the future. He never told his beloved to do anything! "What do you think I'm doing?" Zedekiel asked, his dark gaze never wavering from Prince Ron’s flushed face as he slowly took off his robes. The dark fabric fell to the floor with a soft ruffle, quickly followed by his undergarments. Prince Ron’s emerald green eyes widened in stunned awe, his breath catching in his throat as his jaw went slack. His gaze locked onto Zedekiel’s form, drinking in every inch of his beloved’s beauty as he wondered, what has his beloved been doing for the past 3 months!!! Zedekiel proudly stood tall, his pale skin smooth like m
"Who am I?" He grimaced, stunned. "How can you forget who I am? I am Alaric! The one who saved you from that creep Fredrick who kidnapped you!" 'Also, I am your big brother!' He wanted to add. 'You might not remember me but I surely remember mother forcing me to wipe your bum whenever you pooped when you were a baby!' Prince Ron’s face scrunched further. "Uh... I only remember my beloved saving me that day." Zedekiel smiled smugly as he ruffled Prince Ron’s curls lovingly. He stood straighter, his chest puffing with pride. "What?!" Alaric exclaimed, unable to believe what he was hearing. How could Ron give that Elf all the credit?! "I was the one standing next to Ludiciel in that dome. You made us create this huge version of what you think the Dark Lord looks like! I had to split the earth and move the winds to make that thing look real!" Prince Ron’s brows shot up as he pretended as if he was just remembering who Alaric was. "Ohhh," he drawled. "You're that weak witch!" "What d
The shorter skeleton spoke, voice lighter now. "My sons, you all finally came back." It sounded relieved. "Where’s Zedekiel? And my sister?"The taller one added eagerly, "Were you guys able to get Ron back? Is that why you’re here now?"It all suddenly dawned on Ludiciel who the skeletons were and his eyes burned with unshed tears as he forced himself to speak, voice barely above a whisper, "Mother?... Mariel?""Ludiciel," The shorter skeleton laughed, a sound filled with both sorrow and joy. "I knew you'd recognize us. Unlike your little brothers who are hiding behind you."Tariel and Sariel peered cautiously from behind Ludiciel and Talon, their eyes wide with uncertainty. "Brother, are those really…?"Prince Ludiciel inhaled sharply, willing himself to believe what his heart already knew. With a flick of his wrist, he dispelled the illusion he had unknowingly placed upon them.The moment the magic faded, there they stood.The Queen Mother, regal and serene, draped in flowing pale
Talon sneered, yanking him closer. "Necromancers are always weak as shit. You hide behind your army, and everyone thinks you're powerful. Look at you now. You're nothing without your magic."Hugh's swollen eyes flickered open, and to Talon’s surprise, he started laughing—a wet, gurgling disgusting sound that make Talon want to rip his throat out."You think that's all I have up my sleeve?" Hugh rasped, his lips curling into a wicked grin. His gaze flicked downward.Talon followed his eyes and felt the faintest prickling sensation crawling up his legs."You think humans and animals are the only ones whose skeletons I can call upon?" Hugh sneered. "I can call upon even insects! Those ants will bite at you till you die! Even if you kill me, they won't stop until there’s nothing left but your bones, and I will gladly add you, Phoenix King, to my army!"Talon scoffed. "Oh really?"Without hesitation, his body ignited in a pillar of flames. His form shifted, his flesh turning into golden-re
"Zedekiel," he whispered shyly as he took Zedekiel’s hands in his.Zedekiel’s brows furrowed slightly in concern. "What is it? Did that thing do anything to you?" he whispered back, brushing a soft kiss against Ron’s temple. "Are you uncomfortable anywhere?"Prince Ron shook his head, biting his lip nervously. "No, it’s not that. It’s just... there’s something you need to know."Zedekiel frowned, concerned. "What is it, love? You can tell me anything."Prince Ron took a deep shaky breath, about to tell his beloved about their babies when his gaze landed on his belly and his eyes widened in utter disbelief. He completely froze as he tried to process what he was seeing.There, protruding before him, was his enormous, round belly. It was so large that he couldn’t even see his own feet.He suddenly let out a tiny squeak of horror, his face going pale and before anyone could say anything, Ron’s eyes rolled back, and he fainted on the spot.Zedekiel looked at everyone and they all began to
Even in his ghost-like form, Kayziel was completely red in anger. "Again, NOBODY ASKED YOU TO!!!"The hands however, did not want to face their Lord's wrath. The Lord never tells his name to ordinary creatures and for the small beautiful prince to mention it, they knew there had to be truth to his words.The hands immediately sped up their work, yanking Kayziel toward the circle with urgency.Kayziel howled, his voice cracking in desperation. "STOP THIS MADNESS! I CAN FIX EVERYTHING! I SWEAR! PLEASE STOP!!!"Prince Ron let go, dusting off his hands as though he’d just finished a hard day’s work. "Say hello to your Lord for me!""YOU ARE INSANE!" Kayziel shrieked. He was already half-dragged into the glowing circle. “THIS ISN'T OVER RON!!! YOU'LL PAY FOR THIS!! DO YOU HEAR ME?!! YOU’LL PAY FOR THIS!!!”Prince Ron just smiled sweetly and waved. "Have a safe trip!"With a final, desperate cry, Kayziel disappeared into the gate, the circle sealing itself shut with a faint hum.********At
Prince Ron just sat on the floor and tucked his arms to his chest, turning his face away. Hmph! The Elf spirit wanted his help but was calling him a bastard. Was that even how to ask for help? Besides, his beloved was working hard to get them back together. Who was he to interrupt his beloved's work? Whatever was happening to Kayziel was exactly what he deserved."Do you think I'll help you after what you subjected us to for three whole months?" He scoffed, glaring at Kayziel. "Shoo, hurry and go to wherever those hands are taking you."Kayziel gasped in pain, rivulets of tears and mucus running down his face. He screamed as the smoke-like arms pulled him closer to the circle. He could feel the heat of hell singe his feet. "I'm sorry" He began to cry. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry Ron. I'm sorry for everything. I just- I just wanted to live my dream for once. Your husband snatched that from me when I was alive and trapped me underground for centuries. I just wanted to live. I just wanted to l
Kayziel’s laughter softened into something darker, more insidious, as he stepped closer. “Yes, Ron,” he murmured, his voice a low, chilling caress. “Think about it. Think about it well.” He began circling Ron like a predator stalking its prey, his ghost like form slithering around Ron’s form. “If you take your body, Zedekiel will lose all hope. The rest of your family? They’ll perish, one by one and Netheridge will eventually fall into ruin. The Elves, your kind, might even face extinction. And Zedekiel? Your beloved Zedekiel will live in a world of agony. A world without love..."He paused by Ron’s ear. "A world without you.”His words slithered through Ron’s ear like whispers of a devil, laced with a cruel, hypnotic allure. He moved closer, his hands ghosting over Ron’s trembling shoulders. “Can you truly take your body back, knowing you will be the cause of Zedekiel’s undoing?" He whispered. "Of his suffering for all eternity?”Ron’s breath hitched. His body tensed and his heart be