Chapter 18 - Breaking the Law

After contemplating Enya's threat to take his position, Lord Martin realized that this alarming news would spread like wildfire and reach King Angus' kingdom. Despite the potential threats and consequences, Martin remained determined to find the human from his dreams. While he was anxious about marking her and becoming her Luna, he was also committed to fighting for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to pursue his feelings without jeopardizing the kingdom.

Martin saw this as a sign to finally amend the law and must overcome any tragedies he might face with Amelia so that Enya would be powerless to seize control of the kingdom.

However, Martin knew that he was facing two opponents and two battles, both of which put his kingdom and people at risk. Running a kingdom had been his life for over a century, and the loyalty of his people made him even more powerful. But Martin also understood that betraying them would result in punishment and death for the tribe. His ancestors would never forgive him for risking his life and power for a mere human.

Deep in thought, Martin furrowed his brow and tapped his chin, grappling with the idea that fighting for his desires meant abandoning his kingdom.

Suddenly, Nano entered the room and said, "You are confused, and this confusion poses a threat to the kingdom while giving victory to our enemies. You must find certainty, Martin. Certainty will lead you to triumph."

"How can I be certain when I don't even know her name or have never been to her world? The uncertainties cloud my mind. Knowing her and potentially falling in love with her will only bring chaos. She, a human, should not be my Luna. I used to battle beasts and emerge victorious, but now I face the toughest battle of all – my own feelings for this human," Martin confessed, facing the diverse species of his tribe.

"I suggest consulting our deities for clarity and peace. Their answers will guide you towards the best decision. But do not be disheartened if their response goes against your feelings. It will always be for the greater good of all. We trust you, Martin. I will stand by your side. Enya is hurt and her threats are merely a manifestation of her jealousy. She is unfit to lead the tribe, and nobody will support her, especially considering her own family member was accused of betraying the tribe by abandoning our kingdom and sacrificing their immortality for a mortal," Nano reassured him.

With Nano's support, Martin delved into ancient texts and consulted with wise elders in an attempt to uncover a portal that would lead him to Amelia's world. Days turned into weeks as they tirelessly searched for a solution, their determination unwavering.

Finally, after countless hours of research and experimentation, they discovered a long-forgotten incantation that could potentially open a gateway between their realms. With cautious optimism, they prepared themselves for the risky journey ahead.

Bulingaw told Nano about Ceros, that he is the only god who can help Martin. Ceros, the deity of love, had been imprisoned for a century due to King Angus' anger. The king was enraged after discovering that Ceros had impregnated his fiancé. King Angus called upon King Alpha of Tikaluna to punish Ceros, resulting in the division of the kingdom. The beasts, realizing that love did not exist in their kingdom, only self-preservation and pride, expelled themselves from the tribe.

Bulingaw secretly informed Nano of Ceros' whereabouts. They discreetly defeated the soldiers guarding Ceros' jail and successfully freed him.

When Martin finally laid eyes on the bearded and slow-moving Ceros, a smile filled with hope on his face, he immediately bowed his head and placed his spear on the ground. "Lord of love and humbleness, I beg you to send me to the portal of love where I can find my human. I am willing to face the consequences, as I believe that love will be my armour in overcoming any challenges."

Without uttering a word, Ceros closed his eyes, placed his right palm on Martin's head, and extended his left arm to create a portal out of thin air. A bolt of lightning struck the ground, signaling Martin and Nano to approach the portal with hope and conviction.

As they stood before the portal, Martin's heart raced with anticipation and anxiety. He knew that stepping through meant defying the laws of his tribe and potentially facing dire consequences. Yet, his love for Amelia outweighed any fear he felt.

Taking a deep breath, Martin stepped forward, Nano by his side. The moment his foot crossed the threshold, he felt a surge of energy enveloping him, transporting him to an unfamiliar world. The sights and sounds were overwhelming, but amidst the chaos, he finds hope in every familiar shape of a girl, mistakenly thinking she resembles Amelia.

With renewed determination, Martin tirelessly navigated through the unfamiliar streets, searching for any trace of her. Days turned into weeks, and just as he was losing hope, fate intervened. In a crowded marketplace, their eyes met, and time seemed to stand still.

Amelia's right arm was full, carrying market loads while holding Phoebe's hand. They were about to cross the street when her eyes widened upon seeing Martin in the bustling place, looking at her with a gleam.

Martin's heart rushed like molten lava about to explode. It didn't matter how many people surrounded them; this was the magical moment he had been waiting for, and letting go of Amelia was impossible.

Their feet led them closer to each other at a turtle's pace. Martin nervously offered his hand and spoke, "I have been searching for you. I forgot to get your name. I'm Martin."

Amelia, too, felt an undeniable connection, though she couldn't fully comprehend the depth of their bond. Her hand let go of Phoebe's and went straight to Martin's soft palm. Without hesitation, she answered him with doe eyes, "Amelia. I'm Amelia. Martin? How long has it been? I thought..."

Martin poured his heart out and interrupted her, "I apologize for my impulsive actions. How can I make it up to you?"

Amelia's eyes filled with a mix of curiosity and understanding. "I can't deny the pull I feel towards you," she admitted softly.

Phoebe broke their eye connection and asked, "Who is he, Mommy? He looks strangely scary."

Martin lowered his body to Phoebe's level and said, "Hi, I'm your mom's friend. Can I be your friend too?"

Nano stepped in and held Martin’s arm, helping him to stand up. They sought shelter from the sudden thunder and downpour in the downtown area, finding refuge under a covered sidewalk. As they stood close together, their arms brushed against each other, and their eyes met once again.

Martin's eyes sought Amelia's lips, but he sensed fear and hesitation in her expression.