Dual Heritage Ch. 02

He couldn't believe what he was hearing. "This can't be real. We can't be married just like that."

"I know it sounds crazy, but it's the truth," she said, crossing her arms over her chest. "It is my coven's tradition, and it turns out that mating bonds are formed when two magi have sex and their souls become intertwined."

"Okay, that's just crazy. What does that even mean?"

"It means that you own me, mind, body and soul. That's what you did. You claimed me." She blushed, turning her pink face as red as her lips. "I couldn't even think about denying you. I was just shocked when it happened."

"What do you mean, I own you?" Mark frowned. "Like, I know it felt right saying it while... While we..."

"Fucked?"

"Yeah, that," he shifted nervously. "I don't understand how any of this works."

He tensed up, feeling overwhelmed by the news. His mind was racing with questions and doubts. He didn't even know her name, let alone if he was ready to be married to her.

"I know it's a lot to take in," she said, her voice softening. "But it's the way it's always been. It's our culture and our way of life. And to be honest, I don't mind being bonded to you. I kind of like the idea of it."

"Okay, stop," he said, pulling away from her touch.

"What's wrong?"

"I'm not getting this. I don't get any of this being bonded to someone."

She let out a sigh, her frustration growing. "Look, I know it's a lot to take in, but it's not something we can change. We're bound together."

He shook his head, feeling trapped. "I don't even know your name. How can I be married to someone I barely know?"

"I am Ria." She introduced herself nonchalantly.

"This is ridiculous! You can't just force me into marriage."

Ria's eyes narrowed, and her tone turned cold. "Well, unfortunately for you, it's not up to you. Our bond has already been formed, and there's nothing you can do about it."

"Fine, you know what? I can't deal with this," Mark said, throwing his hands up in the air. "I didn't even know what to call you five seconds ago, let alone be married to you. This is insane."

"You know what's insane? You acting like this is all my fault. You didn't seem to complain when you were deep inside me."

Mark shook his head, his anger growing. "You're the one who brought it up. You're the one who said we're married. And now you're acting like it's all just an inconvenience."

"It's not an inconvenience. It's our way of life. And if you can't handle it, then maybe you're not cut out for it," Ria replied, her voice cold.

Mark clenched his jaw, his fists balling up at his sides. "Maybe I'm not. I don't want to be part of some ancient tradition that I don't even believe in."

"Then leave," she spat.

And with that, Mark stormed out of the room, slamming the door behind him. Ria stood there for a moment, her chest heaving with anger and frustration. She knew she couldn't force Mark to accept their bond, but she couldn't help feeling hurt by his rejection.

Mark's mind was a jumble of emotions as he walked towards his home. He was confused about what had just happened and angry at Ria for trying to force him into a marriage he didn't want.

Really, you get married just like that....which pervert came up with that?

"Who even thinks of a tradition like this?" he muttered to himself.

He couldn't believe that he had been bonded to her without his consent, and he was determined to find out more about this supposed tradition from his aunt.

As he approached, he saw Lida on the porch, engrossed in a phone call. She gestured for him to wait. Mark stepped into the living room, his thoughts a swirling vortex of disbelief and uncertainty. He sank into the couch, his gaze unfocused as he stared at the wall, grappling with the reality of his situation.

Lida's hushed conversation filtered through his thoughts. Words like "police," "fairies," "forest," and "surveillance" caught his attention.

Time seemed to stretch endlessly as he sat, ensnared by his own thoughts. He couldn't make sense of what had happened, and he didn't know what to do next. His mind kept going back to Ria and their argument. He knew that he had to find a way to deal with this, but he had no idea where to start.

Finally, Lida finished her phone call and came into the living room. She sat down next to him.

"What is it dear? You seem troubled."

"Aunt, are you familiar with magi traditions? Specifically, bonding and mating rituals?"

Her eyes narrowed, concern etching her features. "Why the sudden interest?"

Mark took a deep breath and explained everything that had happened with Ria, how they had unknowingly bonded. She listened patiently, her expression growing graver with each word. When he finished, she sighed deeply.

"I feared something like this might happen," she said. "Magi traditions are ancient, and some are rather...........quite extreme. Bonding and mating are some of the most sacred traditions, and they are not to be taken lightly. It's a way for magi to ensure that their bloodline remains pure and strong."

"Damn it, this is all so convoluted," he groaned, rubbing his temples.

"Mark, I know this is a lot to take in," she said, her voice soft and comforting. "But you need to understand that bonding is a serious matter among magi. It's not something that can be taken lightly."

"All of this is very confusing."

She placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "I know, Mark. I didn't tell you all this because I wanted you to be far from this side of the world. But knowing your bloodline maybe it was stupid of me."

"My bloodline?"

"You belong to the line of Magus"

What does that even mean?" He asked, feeling more confused than ever.

"It means that you come from a long line of powerful magi," Lida explained. "Your ancestors were revered for their magical abilities, and their bloodline has been passed down through generations. And now, you are the latest in that line."

"So, what does that have to do with me being bonded to Ria?" he asked, still trying to make sense of it all.

"Magus's bloodline is known to have a powerful effect on female magi(maga). Many of your ancestors who awakened their bloodline had multiple partners." Lida replied. "Magical bloodlines often have a powerful influence on magical abilities and connections."

"You're kidding me!!!"

"I know it's a lot to take in," she said calmly. "But it's important that you understand the significance of your bloodline in the magical world. Your connection to Ria may be a result of the power and influence of your bloodline."

Mark felt a headache brewing. "This is too much to digest."

"I understand, Mark," Lida said. "But you have to try to accept it. Where is Ria right now?"

"I stormed out of her home after an argument about this bond thing."

"You what?" Lida exclaimed.

"Yah, she was talking about marriage and everything, and uhhh I freaked out."

"Mark, what the hell is wrong with you?"

"I panicked, okay?"

"Mark, you need to grasp the gravity of this bond. A magus's bloodline has a very potent effect on female magi, especially during bonding. It's not just a physical connection, but also a deep emotional, and spiritual one. Her entire thoughts will be about her mate. She'll be affected by every emotion, every thought, every action you take. She'll be yours, Mark. You'll be the only one for her. She won't be able to think of anyone else. She'll be irrevocably yours."

Mark listened intently, realizing the gravity of the situation. "I didn't think about that," he said, feeling guilty.

"That's because you were self-absorbed," Lida chided. "You need to think about Ria's feelings too. You can't just run away from this."

"I get it," he said, hanging his head in shame. "I just didn't know what to do. This is all so overwhelming."

"I understand, Mark," Lida said, her tone softening. "But you have to try to accept it. You and Ria are bound together now, and you have to work together to make it work."

Mark sat there in silence, his mind racing with thoughts and questions. He didn't know what to do or how to feel. All he knew was that his life had just taken a dramatic and unexpected turn, and he had no idea where it was going to lead him.

As Mark lay on his bed, his thoughts continued to race. The idea of being bonded to someone he barely knew was overwhelming, and the thought of being responsible for someone else's well-being was daunting. Eventually, exhaustion took over, and he fell asleep.

In his dreams, he saw flashes of Ria and himself, intertwined in a magical embrace. He felt a pull towards her that he couldn't explain, and he could sense her presence even in his sleep.

The dream was vivid and intense. He found himself standing in a vast, open field, surrounded by tall, lush trees. The air was thick with magic, and he could feel it pulsing through his body. In the distance, he saw a figure walking towards him, and as it drew closer, he realized it was Ria.

She was wearing a long, flowing dress that shimmered in the sunlight, and her hair was loose and flowing down her back. As she reached him, she smiled, and her eyes sparkled with joy. Without a word, she took his hand and led him towards a small, cozy cottage that sat nestled among the trees.

As they neared the cottage, the air was filled with a harmonious blend of laughter and a melody that seemed to resonate with his very soul. Ria opened the door, revealing a living room that was a sanctuary of warmth and love. Candles floated in the air, their flames dancing to an unseen rhythm. The walls were adorned with tapestries depicting legendary magi and their soulmates, bound by threads of fate and magic.

Mark looked around, and he saw that the room was filled with people. They were all dressed in finery, and they were all smiling and laughing. And then, he noticed that each person was holding hands with their partner, their auras mingling in a symphony of colors. He looked at Ria, and she was smiling at him, her eyes shining with happiness.

Then, the dream shifted. The room emptied, the laughter and music fading into an echoing silence. It was just him and Ria. Her eyes, once sparkling, were now pools of vulnerability.

"Don't leave me," she whispered, her voice tinged with a desperation that clawed at his heart. "Please, don't leave me."

The words struck him like a bolt of lightning, sending a jolt of raw emotion through his entire being. Her eyes, filled with a sadness so profound, they seemed to pierce his soul.

His heart ached as if it were being squeezed by an invisible hand. The pain was almost physical, a tangible manifestation of the emotional turmoil he was experiencing. He felt a lump form in his throat, a heaviness that he couldn't swallow away. The thought of causing her such sorrow, of being the reason behind those pleading eyes, was unbearable. He realized that he had been so focused on his own fears and confusion that he had forgotten about Ria's feelings.

The dream dissolved into the morning light, leaving Mark awake but far from rested. He lay there for a moment, his thoughts a chaotic whirlpool. The vivid emotions and revelations from his dream clashed with the reality of the previous night's events.

What the hell am I supposed to do now?

Groaning in frustration, he forced himself out of bed and got dressed. Each movement felt mechanical, as if he were a puppet on strings, his mind and heart pulling him in different directions.

Deciding a walk might clear the fog in his mind, he stepped out into the streets. He wandered through the streets of the small town, lost in thought. The sun was shining brightly, and the birds were chirping, but Mark couldn't appreciate the beauty around him. His thoughts were a labyrinth he couldn't navigate, each turn leading him back to Ria, to their bond, to the responsibilities and emotions he couldn't yet comprehend.

The sun may have been shining, but within him, it felt like a storm was brewing, a tempest of confusion, guilt, and newfound understanding. For the first time, he somewhat understood the gravity of their bond. It wasn't just a magical connection; it was a union of souls, a fusion of destinies.

I can't keep running away, not from Ria, not from this bond, and certainly not from myself.

After a while, he found himself back at the house. He walked up to the porch, where Lida was sitting with a cup of coffee in hand. She looked up and gave him a sympathetic smile.

"Good morning dear."

"Morning," he muttered, taking a seat next to her.

"How did you sleep?" she asked, taking a sip of her coffee.

"Not great," he replied, rubbing his eyes. "I had weird dreams. They were very........intense."

"That's to be expected. Your mind is trying to make sense of it all."

"I just don't know what to do," he said, sounding defeated. "I feel like my life is spiraling out of control."

"Mark, you have to remember you're not the only one tumbling down this rabbit hole. Ria is experiencing the same whirlwind of emotions, fears, and uncertainties. She's probably just as scared and confused as you."

A wave of guilt washed over him. I've been so absorbed in my own chaos that I forgot she's in this storm too.

"You're right, Aunt. I need to talk to her."

Lida's eyes twinkled approvingly. "That's a good start. Communication is the cornerstone of any relationship, but in a bond as mystical and predestined as yours, it's absolutely vital."

She picked up her coffee again, taking a thoughtful sip before continuing. "But remember this isn't just about resolving a conflict; it's about understanding the essence of your bond. You both have a lot to learn, not just about each other but also about the magical world you're now a part of."

Mark absorbed her words, feeling their weight. "So, where do I even begin?"

"Begin by being honest, with her and with yourself," Lida advised. "Acknowledge your fears, but also recognize the potential for something extraordinary. You're both navigating uncharted waters; the least you can do is sail together."

Mark is determined to sort things out with Ria. He took a quick shower and got dressed, trying to push the chaotic thoughts from his mind.

Today, things change. Today, I face her.

As he walked towards the door, he noticed a note from Lida on the kitchen table. It read, "Remember to be gentle with her, Mark. She's scared too." He crumpled the note, tucking it into his pocket as a tactile reminder, and stepped out.

He looked around the crowded college campus, searching for any sign of her. He walked through the busy walkways and buildings, but he couldn't seem to find her anywhere.

He navigated through the labyrinthine walkways, peered into lecture halls, and even glanced at the usual hangout spots, but she was nowhere to be found. Each passing moment ratcheted up his annoyance, amplifying the guilt he felt for storming out on her.

Where could she be? What if she's avoiding me?

Frustration began to build within him as he thought about how he had stormed out on her earlier. He didn't even know where she could be.

As Mark turned the corner, he saw Ria walking towards him in the hallway. She was wearing a simple black shirt and red pants that hugged her curves in all the right places. Her long, brown hair was pulled back in a sleek ponytail, accentuating her delicate features.

"Ria!" Mark called out, jogging towards her.

She turned around and stopped, surprised to see him. "What are you doing here?"

"I wanted to talk to you."

She hesitated for a moment, looking unsure. "I don't know if that's a good idea."

"Ria, please," Mark implored, locking her eyes with his. "Just give me a chance to explain."

Ria sighed, and after a moment of consideration, she nodded. "Okay, but not here." her eyes darting around nervously. "Let's go somewhere more private."

Mark followed her to an empty classroom. Ria placed the books on a table and leaned against a desk, her arms crossed tightly over her chest, her posture guarded.

"So, what do you want to talk about?" she asked, trying to sound composed.

Mark inhaled deeply, gathering his thoughts. "I was scared, Ria. Scared of what was happening, scared of losing control. But I've been selfish, not considering how you might be feeling. I'm sorry."

Ria studied him for a moment, and Mark could see the conflict in her eyes. "It's not just about being scared," she said finally. "This bond is a big deal, and it's not something that can be taken lightly. "

"I understand it now," he said, his voice earnest. "And I'm willing to do whatever it takes to make this work. I care about you, Ria, and I don't want to lose you."

A soft smile flickered across her lips, her eyes softening. "I care about you too but you clearly don't understand what transpired between us. There's more to bedding your mate than just sex."

"I get it now. I know things got heated last time. But we can't just give up, can we?"

"I don't know....—"

"Listen, Ria. I don't want to lose you. I want to make this work."

She hesitated, her eyes clouded with uncertainty. "I don't know if I can trust that you're serious about this."

"Trust is built, Ria. Give me a chance to prove that I'm committed to this, to us."

She looked at him, her eyes searching for sincerity. "This is a big step, Mark. Are you sure you're ready for it?"

Seizing the moment, Mark closed the distance, his hands framing her face as he pressed her against the wall, his intense gaze capturing others. A soft moan escaped her lips as her back met the rough surface of the wall.

His lips crashed onto hers with a fierce hunger, their teeth briefly clashing before his tongue invaded her mouth. For a split second Ria struggled, her brain racing to catch up with shock from his actions. Then she surrendered to the sensation with a sense of urgency and enthusiasm, her hands knotting in his hair.

Their bodies pressed against each other, the heat and urgency between them growing with each passing moment. His hands moved down her curves, his touch igniting a fire within her.

She eagerly returned his kiss, matching his passion with her own. Her fingers tugged at his hair, eliciting a deep groan from his throat that sent shivers down her spine.

Their bodies moved in a frenzied dance, their passion burning hot and fierce. She lost herself in his touch, craving more of the intense sensations that only he could give her.