Part 5

Githa opened the door to find his Father up and looking well rested. Crossing the room they hugged tightly “It’s good to see you, where is your brother and mother?” Ordila went to see to the baby leaving the men to talk. “Fayna left just over twelve full moons ago, he went to fight, I haven’t heard from him” It was the last thing he wanted from his boys, to fight but he could understand and in a way was proud of him “And you’re Mother?” Githa stood and went to the window, the silence and hunched shoulders on his boy told him she was gone “How?” his voice barely a whisper. “The summer after you left, the Hellion…somehow they broke threw the barrier…Mother saw them coming warned us and held them back while we hid” Adam went to him and hugged him tight “I’m sorry, I should have been here…” Githa shook his head, “No one could stop it, it was meant to be” Adam nodded but inside he was screaming.

Adam went back to work, fishing. Most of the men were fighting with only a few staying to protect the village. His health now bad it prevented him to go back and in a way he was glad. Githa watched as his father worked, he was happy to have him back but he wasn’t the same man that had left that day many full moons ago. His smile never met his eyes and at night the village would be woken by the sound of screaming as he relived his nightmares. Staying with Ianu the wise one who would see to him, the night would grow calm once more. His father never spoke of this time and he never asked, what he sensed was enough to give him chills. Githa watched, what would he do now Mother was gone? He was mortal, would he go back, with himself settled and Fayna gone there was nothing to keep him here, it was strange how things worked, he looked like his father right down to his ears but inside he felt Fae where as Fayna looked Fae but acted more like Father.

Fayna lay and listened to the sounds of night. He couldn't sleep, why? The answer lay in the corner curled up under the skins sound asleep. He wanted to know what she felt like beside him. Could he be falling for her, probably, was it love…?

Nahele listened to him moving and knew he was awake. Sliding from her covers she quietly crossed the tent and lay beside him. Shocked Fayna turned to her “I am not cold” Her hand slide down to his crotch and slowly started to caress it “I know” With a groan he shifted position “Are you sure?” Nahele smiled “Not time for talking” she stated as her hand slide inside his trousers. Fayna leant forward his lips on hers, Nahele jumped back in shock “What are you doing?” Confused he stared at her “Kissing you?” Her fingers ran across her mouth “Kissing!” What was Kissing? She thought they all did as she, mated for production but then wasn’t that only an excuse here. Fayna was surprised, did her kind not kiss. Sliding beside him again she touched his lips “Show me”

The days passed in a whirl, rarely did they venture from their tent. Nahele found she enjoyed the sex, the affection and tenderness Fayna showed was new to her and exciting, to the Teleri passion didn't exist; to them it was a means to an end. In between she would lie in his arms while he talked, his home, family the war she listened; she liked the sound of his voice. Fayna found her easy to talk to, not one for words she let him ramble not criticising or judging.  The snow fell, the fire died but they paid no attention, they had other ways to keep warm. Fayna found her beautiful, his hands would trail along her skin following the vine and leaves that were imprinted into her, he had never thought it possible for someone to be born that way.

Slowly Nahele told him about her ways, the tribe she came from. Their lives animalistic they stayed out the way of others in the Realm, preferring to stay invisible. She found herself telling him things that no other had even learnt through whispers, that it was not the way to stay with a man purely for company and that sex…..well she had never experienced it like that. Fayna was in love with her, wanted her to be by his side forever but didn't voice his wishes, sensing it was too soon he showed her the only way he knew how.

The snow fell without respite; neither he nor Nahele had seen a winter this bad. The river froze deeper than normal causing Fayna to chip away at its layers to get a line in. The deer moved east, down the mountains and out of the trees they headed to other provinces, anywhere that gave them some shelter and food.

Nahele tried to get the fire going but with the heavy snow it was impossible. Standing in defeat she stared at the damp wood, was it an omen, a warning for breaking the Teleri way? Back from hunting Fayna saw the look of frustration, felt the tangle of emotions as she tried to make a decision. Sliding his arms round her he pulled her close “Tell me to go and I will” Nahele stayed silent, watched as the snow fell from the sky like tiny balls of cotton. She should tell him, she had broken her tribe’s way but then it wasn’t punishable, it was their way of life not a law. Taking his hand she led him to the tent.

One full moon had passed and Lykaios’s mood was still black, rising from his sleep he stormed out, for now the night was his comfort. She had deserved it, angered him till he lost control, fuck, who was he kidding, he took an innocent used her like his toy then left. He was a bastard pure and simple, born one and acted as one. He should apologise, beg her forgiveness……NO, he would not do that, to go on bended knees to a Fae, no matter what he had done he would never…..He hated the Fae, in fact he hated all in the Realm including sometimes his own. Yes he was a nasty fucker but to do what he did was sick even for him, passion, a drawback of his kind, one of many, their desire could out way their need for blood. The Whores in the villages gave him what he needed; his selected few relieved his tension and gave him sustenance, occasionally his lust for both had got the better of him and he had been left with a corpse. Did he feel guilty, no, that was the way his kind had existed, they were brought into being for that very reason and anyway his kind kept quiet, destroyed the bodies and pretended it never happened.

Laila found Lykaios in the main hall. “Excuse me my Lord but Sorcha wishes to speak to you” Planning where the reinforcements should be made to the castle he barked “If she wishes to see me she may do so here, I have neither the time nor patience to run after her” Laila bowed but stood where she was. “I believe it is urgent” Sighing he turned to Vega “Get Shoid to tie up the loose ends”

Entering Sorcha’s room he growled at being pulled away from important work. Sorcha smiled knowingly at him “They will not come here, they want you on their side not as enemies” Lykaios sat “How can you be certain?” She nodded to Laila to leave  “You and Cailean are the only two to exist” ok, so he and his brother were special if you wanted to call it that so….?

Sorcha would say no more, jumping the stairs Lykaios threw open the door. “I am with child” he froze, a child! Quietly he closed the door again he went back to his seat. “How…who?” he demanded, he was going to rip the fuckers head off, what would Ianu say? Sorcha placed her hand on his “This was meant to be, this is why I am here, don’t ask my why for I do not have the answer I only know” Lykaios rubbed his temple not because of pain, but in frustration “Who?” her voice was barely a whisper “You” The laughter exploded form him like a cannon “I’m sorry my dear but…..” Sorcha went to the window and looked at the dust ground and barren trees, all she had known was death, from the ones who cared for her to the land before her she also knew her own time was short. “This child is not yours” Lykaios stared at her; first she said it was his then it wasn’t, which?

Kelsa listened to the sounds of pain, the dying of the poor souls that were of no use to them. It started as screams, high pitched and full of horror, of shock as they tried to come to terms with what was happening but as time wore on it turned to moans as they lost strength and blood, then it would fall silent. She watched as two of the guards pulled someone from one of the cells, his bruised and beaten body was dragged across the dirt then hoisted into the air. With his arms chained above his head and his legs bound the guards started to peel away his skin. She met the man’s gaze and held it, ‘it will be alright it’ll be over soon’ she told him silently. The man kept his eyes on her till the last. Turning away she wished it was her up there but she’d be so lucky after all she was Quella.

  Part 4                                                          Fragments, part 1

Part 4

Fayna felt a sharp pain in his ribs as someone kicked him. He moaned unsure which pain he was feeling most. The smell of the dead assaulted his nose making him want to vomit. Opening his eyes he saw the sun first then the strange woman. Her pale green skin and dark brown eyes glared at him intently. “You are not dead!” He tried to laugh except it didn't quite come out right “Sorry to ruin your day” he mumbled dryly before closing his eyes.

Waking later he found himself sheltered. He lifted his head to look round but his body dislike the movement so he lay still. A woman appeared beside him and thrust a bowl in front of him “Drink” she ordered. For the next few moons he slept when she told him and ate when she told him.

Taking a minute to get his bearings Fayna got to his feet and stumbled outside. Looking around he found they were the only two here. He watched as the woman cooked over an open fire “Thank you” the woman looked at him “Why” Fayna moved forward only to find she backed off “For saving my life” The woman shrugged “You were not dead” Fayna laughed, a deep belly lurching laugh that echoed round the forest. The woman put a finger to her lips “Ssh” Sitting by the fire he warmed himself, the Great Mother was turning the season, soon snow would cover the land. “What’s your name?” The woman looked at him suspiciously then answered “Nahele” Smiling he pointed to himself “Fayna” Nahele nodded then went back to work. “Can I help?” She shook her head “You rest” Staying by the fire he watched her work in silence “You don’t talk much” Nahele didn’t answer.

Fayna growing stronger each day helped Nahele work preparing for when the snow came.  The wind howled through the trees, frost scattered across the land peppering everything in its tiny glitter and the sky darkened with the promise of snow, the only colour came from the few winter plants. Fayna found he liked Nahele, maybe a little too much, all his time spent in fields or muddy ditches had had its affect on him, he couldn't remember the last time he saw a woman, he would be in real trouble if he declared his attraction to her. Nahele found that she too was full of thoughts, of Fayna. She would miss the Fae when he left. It was wrong, very wrong, the Teleri do not stay with anyone, not even a mate but she found herself hoping the spring would never come.

The days grew colder and the nights worse. With her tent now covered with thick branches they settled down for the night. Fayna lay unable to sleep; even with the extra hides he was cold. After all this time he should be used to the harsh conditions, when was the last time he slept in a bed with a fire roaring in the corner? Feeling something warm he turned to find Nahele beside him. “Your teeth chatter, you make to much noise” she informed him as she snuggled down and went back to sleep. Fayna felt her warmth spread across him, his limbs no longer ached and his body no longer shivered. ‘Great Mother’ he silently exclaimed as he felt a different kind of warmth reach his groin causing it to harden.

Sorcha sat reading, for eight moons she had not seen Lykaios. He was avoiding her, his reaction to the night they kissed understandable, not every day you kiss someone and get a light show. “So my young Fae, this is where you spend your time!” Cailean sat beside her. “Hiding from my brother?” Sorcha kept her eyes on her book “I have done nothing to hide from” Cailean chuckled “No, so why is Lykaios in such a fowl mood?” Putting her book down she look at him solemnly “He has a lot to accept” Cailean studied her, why were the Fae always so cryptic in their answers, they never made any sense, but then she wasn't Fae, not any more, true she was born one but her illness if that’s what it was had changed her, gave her powers and he felt wisdom beyond her. “I think Lykaios has a serious problem” Sorcha looked up “Which is?” Cailean smiled “You”

Cailean thought, he had plenty to think about. The war ravaging the Realm was bloody and fierce, so close now he could hear the clashing of steal but then Vampires had excellent hearing. Soon it would spill into his province and then he would have to act, he had his clan to think of. Lykaios….he was an excellent soldier, solid and loyal he would defend his home to the last but sometimes, just sometimes he got the feeling he wasn't happy. Vampire was not the easiest creature to be but they had known nothing else, their birth had surprised his kind, put some on the defensive but they obeyed the scrolls, to them it was like the Holy Bible of the mortal world. His brother was the obvious choice as Helmer but he sensed his black moods and fiery temper were the reasons he was not chosen, he on the other hand disliked conflict, he preferred talk rather than war, his was not the only province watching him in such critical times.

Lykaios swooped down and landed outside the tower. Opening the door he found himself standing in front of a naked Sorcha. He froze. “Please close the door, your letting in the cold” Sorcha chastised him politely, if she was embarrassed she didn't show it. Turning he closed the door and stood, the throbbing in his groin told him he should have left, gone out and waited, so why hadn't he? The water splashed as she climbed out of the tub “Instead of standing like a statue pass me the towel” Lykaios cringed, he was sure her voice held amusement, picking the towel up he held it out behind him, afraid to look round. Sorcha dried herself off “Ok you can turn round now” Turning he found her dressed in her night clothes, inwardly he groaned as he saw the silhouette of her body through the thin cloth. “So my Lord to what do I owe the pleasure?” she asked placing her hands on her hips.

Lykaios turned away, the throbbing in his groin now a painful wanton ache “I will come back another time” he growled as he headed for the stairs. The room filled with a soft musical laughter “Running away again, are you so afraid of me?” Lykaios spun round his teeth exposed “I run from no one, especially Fae” his voice deepened with anger. “No, you seem to run from me, why Lykaios, am I that frightening?” Suddenly by her side he snarled “You should be afraid of me” Sorcha stared at him “And what could you do that would frighten me so” He couldn't believe what he was hearing, was she deliberately angering him? He was going to show her just what he was capable of. Pressing himself against her he murmured harshly “Do you really want to find out?” Her hand went to his face, her fingers ran along his lips “Your words in anger do not hide your passion” Her touch only intensified his already aroused body.

Sorcha moaned at the harsh assault on her lips, the tightness of his hold. Lykaios’s eyes changed as desire took over. He wanted her, all of her. His lips moved across hers and down her throat. Pulling at her nightie his blood boiled at the sight of her naked body. Her silverfish skin almost sparkled in the soft light of the room. He explored and tasted every part of her, for now he owned her. Lifting her up he pinned her against the wall, Sorcha squealed as he entered her, her fingers dug into his skin as he pushed through the barrier of virginity, his mouth claimed hers as his hips moved in desperation. His eyes turned darker, almost black with the ferocity of his passion, sharp fangs scrapped across her neck till it found what it wanted. Sorcha’s body arched with pleasure as his teeth broke through her soft skin.

Githa opened his eyes. With another knock on the door he swung his feet to the floor, who was at the door at this time the sun had yet to rise. He stared in shock at the man who stood before him “Father!” Adam swayed slightly but kept his eyes locked on his son “Githa?” the young man nodded. “My how you have grown”


Part three                                                          Part 5

Part 3

Shoid was carried into the hall, out hunting he had been ambushed, the wound itself was not serious, it was deep but his kind could heal themselves, except Shoid couldn't, the poison that surged through his body was unknown and killing him. The others hovered round unsure what to do, they had not seen one of their kind die in many passing’s of a full moon. Cailean paced the floor, if he dies he had no choice but to retaliate, the province would expect it. Keeping his promise to Ianu would be impossible, preventing the annihilation of his clan was more important than a Fae female.

Shoid lay in agony, the poison was attacking every cell every tissue. His breathing laboured and his body twitched and jerked.

Sorcha quietly entered the hall, she watched as her ‘family’ tried in vain to remove the poison, listened to the whispers of frustration. She felt Shiod’s last gasp; his deceased body shuddered then became still. Vega screamed with rage, her sharp fangs reflecting of the torch light. Lykaios fetching a blanket went to cover him. “WAIT!”

Turning they watched as the strange woman walked towards them, how had she got in? They surveyed the sliver skin and blood eyes with distrust. Lykaios jumped, blocking her way. “Still you fear me” His eyes flickered with recognition “Sorcha?”

Passing him she knelt beside Shoid and placed her hand on his chest. A brilliant light exploded from her consuming her and their fallen friend, bathing the dank hall in unfamiliar warmth. Lykaios watched in awe as his lifeless friend opened his mouth and inhaled deeply. The wound faded then disappeared the poison obviously drawn from his body. After what seemed like seconds the light vanished and Sorcha rose. Without a word she went back to her room.

Cailean stared at the others; they had just witnessed something amazing, something even out of the Fae’s reach, the reclaiming of life.

A party was held the following night in honour of their brethren and in thanks to Sorcha. Lykaios stood at the bottom of the stairs and waited for there guest of honour. He had not seen her since last night and he had many questions to ask, sensing someone watching him he looked up. Sorcha slowly descended the stairs her eyes never leaving his face. She knew what he wanted to know, the dozens of questions he had but she also felt something else. Lykaios felt his chest tighten his groin throb, by Erebus he wanted her. The music started and Lykaios taking Sorcha’s arm led the first dance. He stared at her, fear confusion; lust, all there and all as strong as the other. He was bewitched, her powers were controlling him giving him thoughts and feelings he would never have over a Fae. Sorcha smiled at him ‘I have no control over you, you are Vampire, we that follow the light cannot have power over obscurity’. Did he think that or had she got into his head?

‘I can be in your head, Cailean’s or Vega’s, I can be everywhere or nowhere’ What the fuck did that mean,  there was sincerity, a compassion and love in her eyes not just for him or everyone here but for all in the Realm, he sensed an inner calm a desire to bring peace, she was not capable of malice. “What are you” Sorcha laughed the sound vibrated around the hall like tiny bells ‘I am Fae, Vampire, Elf or Hellion, I can be whatever is needed’ Lykaios was loosing his temper, always known to be short it was at risk of exploding “Damn it, can you not just answer” Cailean tapped his shoulder “May I” taking Sorcha’s arm. Lykaios bowed and backed off. “I’m glad to see you are better my child even if you look a bit strange” Cailean declared “We can’t thank you enough for what you did for Shoid” Sorcha curtsied slightly “It was not his time” Cailean looked at her confused but did not ask any more, noticing the thunderous look on his brothers face he chuckled “You seem to be having an effect on Lykaios”

Faymoor rose from the ashes, the bright houses now replaced with dark wood, it would do for now plus with some added protection they where virtually invisible from the hills. The whole village set to work planting and fishing, the need for supplies was great. Nolana took Arla’s boys and brought them up as her own. Githa enjoyed helping Endor with the boats and was content. Fayna on the other hand was agitated, a need for adventure burned through his body, a compulsion to join the men to fight, to kill the one that killed their Mother. Not longer after becoming of age he announced he was going. Nolana was shocked and frightened begging him to stay but he refused. Endor agreed after all he had his Father’s blood in him too. As the rain fell Nolana hugged him tight and handing him some food begged him to stay safe and come home. After a firm hug from Endor and a long one from his young brother he headed over the hill only stopping briefly at his Mother’s marker.

Fayna joined a small group in the south and soon found himself in battle. He was quick, nimble and with an ability to think like the enemy he was beginning to acquire a name for himself. He fought hard, giving no thought to the ones he slay, kill or be killed what choice was there. After two times twelve full moons he still had not come up against the demon that killed his Mother but he knew one day they would meet.

Githa stayed in the village, his flair with wood made him a popular carpenter and the village expanded and grew with his help. He had married Ordila. Occasionally he would wander off, his mind drifted, his Mother dead, his Father probably the same, he thought of Fayna, he missed him.

Sorcha remained at the castle, Ianu waited for a sign but it never came. Whatever was to come she was not yet needed. Out on the parapet she listened to the voice, ‘soon’, Sorcha nodded as if understanding. Lykaios observed from a distance, His body burned with the need to touch, he was fighting it, by Erebus he was fighting. “If you are going to keep tabs on me you might as well do it in the open” Sorcha exclaimed. Stepping from the shadows he thought of apologising, why he had done nothing wrong? “Always so proud Lykaios, you wander the Creation with negativism a sense of guilt as if you are being punished for your existence” Grabbing her arm he swung her round and growled “I have no need to be punished” Becoming aware of their proximity he nervously stepped back.

Sorcha placed her hands on his chest “It not longer beats but that does not mean you cannot feel. You were born Vampire but you were not alone, Cailean is your brother, has your blood, Vampire blood which he accepts” Lykaios grabbed her wrists and held tight, his blood red eyes burned with anger “And I do not?” He had long accepted he was a demon born from a whore. He was abruptly aware of her touch, the heat that was spreading through his body. Looking into her eyes he searched for an answer, for a reason for his desire, he made it a point not to get close to anyone even his own brother did not know him well but she knew things that he had told no one, his most intimate feelings were open for her to read and that scared him, Fae could not read Vampire minds? Sorcha knew what he was feeling, understood his fear just as she knew he was the one, that from the first day he had felt the heat from her tiny body they were bonded.

Lykaios couldn't hold back any longer, he had to know what she felt like, what her lips tasted of. Moving closer his large hands clasped her head, his lips gently pressed down on hers unsure of his actions or her reaction. Sorcha’s arms slid round his waist, her lips met his with a passion causing him to moan, his hand moved down and grabbing her hair prevented her from escape. A mist enveloped them, the veil of colours swirled round them as if dancing in delight at their desire. Lykaios let go backing off form the ethereal light in fear “NEVER TRUST A FAE” he roared as he took to the night. Sorcha watched as the small winged creature flew high into the moonlit sky then vanished. He would come to her, it was to be. Her fingers caressed her lips still tingling from his touch, whether she liked it or not made no difference, their destiny was already written but still, his lips on hers.....

Part two                                                          Part 4

Part 2

Full moons passed and Arla bore two more children, two boys, Fayna and Githa, as much as she and Adam loved the boys Sorcha always remained in their hearts. Life in the village carried on, the Great Mother woke the world to the start of a new day and at night filled the sky with thousands of tiny candles informing life below it was time to rest. Ianu poured over his books day and night, the sense of foreboding growing deeper with each passing moon. Whatever was coming was bad, very bad. Life seemed perfect but they were Fae, they knew something was to happen; an evil was spreading across the land. Village were turning against Village, first it was the Elves then it spread to the small Fae villages further north even the fairies no longer trusted anyone shying away from any contact that was not their own. The children grew and the village became filled with laughter and mischief. The sky blazed in a brilliant light, the sun spread its heat across the land and with the help of the rain it ripened the corn, flowers burst forth in bright colours adding to the landscape that could have passed as being painted with pastels.

You could not say the same for Vaxur. Its dry barren land and dead trees gave an idea of what was inside the castle. The heavy wooden doors surrounded by dark stone walls made the place look impenetrable for anyone who wished to enter, if they were brave enough. Inside the rich coloured walls and ceilings gave you the feeling of opulence but the feeling was short lived.

Sorcha now a child herself spent her time painting and playing music. The tower was the only room she knew for she had never left it. If she thought it strange she never questioned just as she never asked about her guardians. She didn't need powers to know she was different just one look at their eyes and the fangs that glinted in the moonlight made her realise she was not one of them.

Lykaios would visit each night to get a report from her charge then report back to the Helmer. He never spoke to the child, never knew what to say and if the truth be told she unsettled him. Entering the room he found the old lady gone “Where is Laila?” he demanded, angry at the woman’s disappearance. Sorcha looked up from her book “I am hungry she has gone to fetch me something to eat, she will not be long” Lykaios paced the floor in impatience; he didn't want to be here any longer than necessary. Feeling a warm hand slide into his he looked down to find Sorcha staring at him “You do not like me” Lykaios opened his mouth to protest but the child stopped him “It is all right, you fear what is not like you, I am not like you so you fear me. I will not harm you or your kind, if you are true to yourselves then I will honour it” Lykaios stared, for such a small Majick she had wisdom beyond her years. “Laila is here now” turning the child went back to her book just as the old woman entered. Lykaios left shortly after the words of the Fae child ringing in his ears.

The Helmer sent Lykaios to the west, the Drayad province wished for Vaxur to join them in battle. Travelling at night he returned the following. The Helmer listened as he explained what the other province desired. “And what do you say Lykaios, you know I trust your judgement” Lykaios shook his head, the fight had nothing to do with them, why risk war over siding with another clan and take by force what they already have “No sire, our past has never waged war and I believe now would be a mistake” The Helmer agreed “We will send a message that we regretfully decline” Lykaios was suspicious “Might I suggest one more thing, It might be prudent to add that any attack on us by them will be met by swift and painful retaliation” Cailean looked at his aid, Lykaios was more than that, they were brothers in blood. Twins, born Vampires from a Vampire, the only two in existence, how they came to be was a mystery but the ancient scrolls  declared it would happen. Their clan had accepted the scrolls insisted that he would be their Helmer although he always believed Lykaios would be much better suited.

The message was dispatched and Cailean heard nothing else from them. He heard of the attacks the death and torture of hundreds of souls in the Realm but they did not act, Cailean refused to join the wars waged against others, the Realm had been peaceful for centuries, a place of quiet truce, to break that truce would bring shame on the clan but neither could they act in defence of others for they had a secret, something that was to be protected at all cost.

Full moons passed and the children grew. One morning word was sent to the elders of each village, a meeting was being held. Ianu sat and listened sadly as each one took turns to report on what was happening elsewhere. They agreed they had to act, that working singly was only bringing extinction to each village; if it kept going there would be no Fae left. Together as one would give them a chance, a means to push the enemy back, give them breathing space while the child grew.

Ianu returned home with a heavy heart. Calling the village together the next morning he declared war, all men were to arm. Adam was the first, his battle experience and sense of justice impressed the others, they announced him as the leader. Arla watched with the other woman as they set of to join the other men. The woman worked as usual, tended the land and helped as the boys not old enough to fight carried on fishing. Arla was proud of her two, they were turning into fine strong men, looking up at the sky she hoped the Great Mother was as generous with Sorcha as she had been with them.

Sorcha looked to the north, she saw nothing as no window was placed there, she could hear the screams of the woman and children as they were slain and it tore at her heart. The voices of the destroyers were full of greed, hate but there feelings were wrong, they had been instilled, convinced this was right…they were not to blame. Lykaios opened the door, stopping he watched the now teen as she stared at the wall opposite. He had the feeling she sensed something. Sorcha turned and he saw a tear run down her cheek, without thought he crossed the room and reaching up wiped it from her face “Why?”  Sorcha stared into his blood red eyes “Can you not feel it?” He looked at her quizzically “Feel what?” She turned away, afraid she would burst into tears at any moment “The hate, the anger…the pain” He could feel nothing; his kind could feel emotions but one person at a time. Suddenly he felt her; it had never been possible to feel Fae but he did and the pain she felt was intense, almost bringing him to his knees.

The Hellion, they stand on two feet and from a distance they look normal but these monsters are exactly that, monsters. Shut away from the Jajij Realm by a veil of majick they became prisoners of their own obscurity, only the blackest of hearts live their.  Arla was the first to see them, the dark shapes approaching from the east, warning the others she helped them pack some supplies “Go, you must pack yourself” Nolana insisted. “I will soon, first I must make sure the others are safe” Going to her boys she made sure they had what they needed “Go with the others to the Nebulous forest” The boys nodded “Are you not coming with us?” Githa the youngest asked. Taking him in her arms she smiled “I will follow, I must try and hold them back to give you all time” Nolana entered and ushered the boys outside “Be careful, don’t take any chances” she begged her friend.

Sorcha watched as the Hellion ran down the hill screaming. They swarmed through the village burning all in their path. A lone woman stood in the middle of the village and fought the beasts with all her might. She seemed to be winning, the Hellion pushed back, sensing danger the woman turned  to find one of them behind her, thrusting his sword into her stomach it’s black eyes filled with delight as she fell to her knees.

Lykaios entered quietly and found the Fae huddled in a corner. “What’s wrong, are you ill?” Looking up Sorcha shook her head “Faymoor is gone” Faymoor, he had no idea she knew of the place? “Gone!” He helped her to her feet. Sorcha told him what she had seen, the villagers were safe, hidden away except one “My Mother is dead” Lykaios’s eyes bore into her hers, her Mother, how did she know of Arla? “Please do not blame Laila she said nothing, I know that is all”  She made for her bed, every part of her felt as if it were on fire “If you’ll excuse me” Realising something was not right Lykaios reached out to her recoiling as the heat from her almost burnt him “You are ill, I will send for Laila”

The villagers hid in the forest; they were safe here the Hellion didn't know it like they did. Keeping low and quiet and taking turns to climb high in the trees to keep watch they thanked the Great Mother for the warm wind, to hide here in the winter would have been suicide. Nolana searched through the trees, a painful lump in her stomach told her friend was not joining them. The boys asked her occasionally but they too sensed her departure from the earth.

After three moons passed they cautiously made there way back to the village, there eyes widen in horror at the site of burnt out buildings and destroyed crops. In the village centre they found Arla, dead.

Sorcha lay, her body felt as if it were being struck by dozens of hot needles; her temperature was so high her skin almost glowed. Tossing and turning she listened to the gentle voice. The voice was sweet calming; it told her she was now of age and it was time. The pain although intense would not last much longer. Ianu visited daily; made sure Laila had what she needed and checked on the girl, he didn't know what was happening but knew the Great Mother was watching over her, that for Sorcha the time had come.

  Part one                                                      Part three

1.Existence

Ianu watched as Endor and Adam pulled the boat ashore. Adam had been here eleven full moons now and had fitted in well. His mind wandered to the year Arla had been asked to go to the human world, to help Garwolf. The battle she and the others fought to defeat the Darkness had been fierce with Arla nearly loosing her life. Adam a mortal had fallen for her and discovering she was not all she seemed had not put him off. Now married and living in Faymoor they were expecting their first child. Ianu sighed.

“Adam might I have a word with you!”

Adam waved and spoke briefly to Endor before joining Ianu.

Endor opened the door to be greeted by his wife. Wrapping his arms round her tightly he closed his eyes. Through the bubbly speech and broad smile he knew she had been crying, the blotches on her face and raw eyes told him so. Was it only fourteen moons since their first child breathed life for such a short time? Nolana was beside herself, took the blame for what happened….It was no ones fault, it happened….still as he watched the tiny catafalque be lowered into the ground he had felt his own heart break. They had named her Lunette and knew the Great Mother would take care of her.

“Sit, sit, you must be hungry” Nolana ushered her husband to the table.

Adam sat and waited for Ianu to start, it would be rude to speak first. The wise one was what he was called, as the eldest in the village his years of experience and practice in magic had given him the title. Every village in the realm had an elder male of female and they deserved the respect they got. Ianu cleared his throat “How is Arla?”

“She is well”

“And the child?” Adam thought it odd that he should ask “The baby is strong, it will be arriving any day now” Ianu nodded solemnly, he did not like having to give bad news.

Adam closed the door and stood. How would he tell her, they had been looking forward to this a great party was being organised. The birth of every Fae was celebrated by a party where the child was held up to the sky by the wise one who asked the Great Mother to watch over and teach them the ways of the light. Looks like the party will be cancelled, Adam almost laughed as that was the least of his worries. Looking over to Endor’s home her felt sorrow, to loose a child was bad enough but to learn this……. “Shit” Adam quickly looked round to make sure no one heard him. Standing straight he headed home, better do it now.

Arla turned as he walked in “Goodness is it that time already, I’ll get supper on” Adam didn't answer, he needed to tell her, had to tell her but his mouth was dry and wouldn't open. Arla sensed something was wrong “Dearest whatever is it?” Going over and hugging him. “I…have something to tell you” Leading her to a seat he waited for her to get comfortable, the baby inside her was getting bigger with each passing moon and doing much of anything was getting difficult.  Arla turned solemn; she knew what was coming or at least suspected it “It’s to do with the baby!” Adam nodded, he wanted to scream to curse and yes even hit something but instead he stayed calm.

He pulled her onto his lap “Ianu called me over today” Arla nodded, if the wise one wanted to speak to Adam it was bad. His grip on his wife tightened “The baby is in danger” Time froze, the wind do not whistle the waves did not roar and the birds ceased singing, placing a hand on her stomach protectively she looked at Adam, her husband, she loved him dearly and knew, could feel this was breaking his heart. “Something is coming!” she didn't need to ask, she had sensed something for months now, they all had.

Adam watched as she calmly took the news, she knew, after all the time he had spent here it still surprised him to find something else they can do. “Yes, unfortunately Ianu doesn't know what , but its bad”

Arla stood and started supper “When, I mean how long….?” Adam went to hold her but something in her voice stopped him “We can say goodbye” Arla was horrified, so soon she would get to hold her child once and then..... “Did Ianu say why?” but she knew the old man kept things to him self, only revealed what he though you should know.

“He believes the child is special, don’t ask me how but he feels she will be needed for something big in the future” Arla stifling a sob nodded. If this was to be it was meant to, the Great Mother had planes for her little one and who was she a mere Fae to stand in her way. It hurt, great stars it hurt. Adam explained what was to happen; as soon as the child was born Ianu would perform the nurture ceremony then allow them a few minutes before giving the child to someone who would keep it safe.

Getting ready for bed she wondered who was to care for it, with the shock of finding she was to loose her child she had forgotten to ask who would be its protector. Adam cringed, she wasn't going to like this “Our child will be safe, does it matter where it goes” Dread filled her heart “Where will my child be going?” Adam couldn't look at her, didn’t want to see the reaction on her face “Vaxur” Arla felt she was going to be sick “The Vaxur Province, they are demons has Ianu gone mad?” Adam gave a weak smile “He is the wise one, he has his reasons” She wasn’t convinced. To hold her baby briefly then hand over to those, those abhorrence’s. “No, I can’t do it, only the Great Mother would know what they would be teaching” Adam held his wife tight “It has to be done, for the child’s safety”

Ianu calmed her fears, promised her they would take good care of the baby and that one day they would be reunited. Arla accepted the wise one’s words but as the time of birth grew closer she was torn between excitement and fear. Adam tried his best but he knew what she was feeling, he too felt wretched. If it were the mortal world he would hide them away, arm himself to the teeth....but that was not the way here besides he knew it would do no good.

Adam and Endor carried on fishing the woman saw to the fields and life carried on. Ianu spent most of his time huddled over books and the Eye of vision trying to work out exactly what was to happen but to now avail, the Eye would cloud over, like a storm it would grow darker and throw streaks of light into the air but reveal nothing.

Adam was helping to fix a fishing net when Nolana came running down the sand “It is time” she told him breathlessly before dashing back up to his house. Dropping everything he followed. It was difficult but just before sunset the house was filled with the sound of a babe crying. Adam had a daughter. Ianu arrived and quickly performed the ceremony before handing the child back to its mother one last time. Arla stared at the tiny thing; the baby stared at her as if knowing what was happening. Ianu stood close by “It is nearly time, what name will you give?” Arla thought for a moment “Sorcha” The wise one stared for a moment then nodded “Very well” handing the baby to Adam who stared down at Sorcha’s face trying to burn the image of his first born in to his mind, he should be bursting with pride, getting slapped on the back and congratulated, instead he was wishing time would stop, that this moment would last forever.

With the child wrapped up tight Ianu left the house, the silence inside suddenly filled with wailing. He wished this didn't have to happen but the Eye had told of danger if the child stayed, she would be in safe hands and in time Arla and Adam would recover from their lose and have more children. Standing at the water fall he waited for night to consume all around it, the baby wriggled and gave a small cry, Ianu held her close to his chest.

A man stepped from the shadows, he observed the old one mumble an incantation to the child, it sounded like singing. Without a sound he moved closer, Ianu sensing his presence lifted his head “Lykaios” he greeted solemnly. The other bowed “Ianu the Fae” he replied just as solemnly “Is this it” he eyed the small creature with distaste. Ianu handed him the child “This is Sorcha, keep her close and on no account is she to leave the castle” The man nodded then in a puff of smoke vanished. Turning Ianu made his way back to his home.

                                                                      Part two