Rage

Ashlard thought for a moment, before asking, "may we speak to you in private?"

The King stood, taking the Queen by the hand, Ashlard quickly followed with Runë.

"What's this about then?" asked the King.

"Do you know of any affliction that causes emotional attachment?" asked Ashlard, squeezing Runë's hand gently.

"I... May have some information on that... Though I'd hardly call it an affliction," the King turned towards his Queen, she smiled and spoke.

"Bonding," the Queen said, "in rare cases, upon the first taste of blood, part of your soul may attach itself to another." She glanced towards Runë for a moment. "There are several documented cases from your ancestors... Though, for obvious reasons. Nothing more recent."

Ashlard thought back, he had taken blood several times before Runë, but it was only after saving her life, he felt something change. Runë felt it too, staring at him, she felt humbled merely being in his presence.

"Could this bond, be confused with love?" asked Ashlard.

"No," said the King, "There are records of Bonds where the parties hated one another, and continued to do so."

The Queen stepped towards him now, "The bond only serves to increase your feelings toward another, growing small feelings into powerful emotions. Turning powerful emotions into physical maladies."

Ashlard looked at Runë, she was staring at him, clutching his arm tightly.

"If you love her, your bond to her will only make it stronger with time," continued the Queen, "do not fear love, for it is the only truth in this world."

With those words, the King and Queen left, Ashlard turned to Runë, while she could not speak, her eyes spoke thousands of words. Bending to kiss her, he knew then, this wasn't some curse. He could trust his emotions, even his beast could recognise her now. Returning to the party, Ashlard nodded briefly at the King, who was in discussion with Prince Horuth. Making their way to the tables, laden with an assortment of food, Ashlard spotted Blain. He was wearing brightly polished ceremonial armour to show rank, Ashlard noticed a hand on the crook of his elbow. Blain took notice of him, turning with a smile, Ashlard realised with a start, he was with Ciray. Spotting him, she smiled, but after glimpsing Runë, her jaw dropped.

"You look beautiful," she said, embracing Runë.

"And you match," said Blain, taking Ashlard by the forearm, frowning for a moment, "That shirt was expensive."

"It was expertly modified to accommodate my wings," Ashlard casting a smile at Ciray

Blain just shook his head.

As the afternoon wore on, Ashlard had noticed that most people, while keen on staring, didn't dare approach, he mentioned this to Blain.

"Don't mind them," he said, "Some are admirers, some fear you, and some unfortunately, hate you."

"Why hate?" asked Ashlard.

"You ancestors started a war, there are some who grew up hearing stories from their grandparents about the the war," said Blain. "Old hate still runs through their veins, and the King has made enemies by inviting you to his court."

Thinking back to the Armoured Knurlig, he gently pulled Runë closer, she had to be protected.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Ashlard came to a decision, walking towards the King, he bowed.

"Please excuse us a moment, your majesty," he said.

Quickly scooping Runë into his arms he leapt into the air, with a snap of his wings. Several people exclaiming out in shock. Ashlard ignored them, still climbing higher and higher. Turning slowly as if returning to the tower, instead, he landed on the roof. Holding onto the metal spike protruding from the top, he let Runë down. She was clearly puzzled, but smiled, as she turned to face the sunset. From this height, everything was bathed in beautiful fiery oranges and reds. Ashlard slowly crouched down, retrieving the carving from a pocket, he placed it in his palm. Runë turned and was staring at him now, with an intensity he hadn't seen before.

"I belong to you, heart, mind and soul, if you'll have me, I will love you until the end of time itself." Opening his hand, revealing his creation, a pink stone ring, with bright red accents, carved in the likeness of a rose on a vine.

Ashlard couldn't look at her, as she gently plucked the ring from his palm. But with a sudden impact she tackled him, throwing the pair of them clean off the roof. Ashlard wrapped his arms around her, pulling their decent into a controlled dive, flaring his wings to pull them up in a shallow arc, steadying himself, so he floated on the air currents. It took him a moment to realise Runë was shaking violently. Lifting her to eye level, he realised she was beaming with joy, her eyes lit up like stars, tears streaking down her face, and she was kicking madly in the air. She was completely unable to control her joy. Quickly flashing her hand, showing the perfect fit on her ring finger, she threw her arms around his neck, pulling him close for a kiss. She really did love him...

Landing back at the party, there were eyes staring at them in every direction. It seemed, everyone saw their little tumble from the tower, and weren't sure how to respond. Ashlard took her hand, raising it as high as she comfortably could, he bent, kissing her deeply, and exposing the ring, a moment later, a set of cheers rang out. Ashlard figured, this way, if everyone knew who she was, she would have more people keeping an eye on her. And word spread pretty fast.

After hours of dancing, feasting and even a few drinks, Ashlard bade farewell to Blain, Ciray and the royal family. He scooped Runë into his arms, holding her gently, leaping into the air, he carried her back to their home in the tower.

Runë was so full of joy, she couldn't stop beaming, examining her ring up close with the help of the lamp. She loved it, and she had no idea Ashlard could create such things. Ashlard approached her, wrapping his arms around her. She always felt so safe, even when he fought the Armoured Knurlig. She still didn't feel truly scared, until he put her down. Shuddering at the thought of what could have happened, she felt Ashlard's arms tighten in response.

Turning around without making him break his grip, she kissed him gently. Reaching behind herself, Runë pulled the knot that held up her bodice, before sliding out of her dress completely. Taking his hand, she placed it over her heart, it was pounding so hard it hurt. Helping him shrug off his shirt and trousers, Runë smiled nervously, and lead Ashlard to their bed. Climbing in and throwing the blanket to the floor, Ashlard joined her. Cradling her in his arms like usual, he began to hum, making her feel giddy and relaxed. The energy he released soothing her weary joints and sore muscles. She felt Ashlard place a hand on her stomach, gently running his fingers across her skin. She took his hand, moving it to her leg, and as he stroked her thigh, she felt goosebumps roll up her spine.

Rolling over, she climbed atop his chest. Ashlard sat up, holding her close against his skin, she took his hand, bringing it to her bust. She couldn't help flinching slightly at the sensation at first. But quickly melted into his chest, kissing every part of him she could reach. Now she offered her neck, loving his complete lack of hesitation as he gently bit down. Her mind going blank, and she slid down, their minds sharing in each other's complete bliss.

Runë had expected some discomfort for their first time. But Ashlard didn't jostle or provoke her to move any faster than she was comfortable. The bond between their minds bringing physical sensations to the absolute limit. Ashlard wrapped his arms around her, rolling her gently onto the bed. He slipped out in the process, and released Runë's neck in order to reposition himself.

Ashlard wiped his mouth free of blood, before pressing his lips against Runë's. At the same time, he slowly pushed himself inside her again. Smiling at her sharp intake of breath... Smiling wider as she tried to wrap her legs around him. She was panting now, starting to tremble in ecstasy through Ashlard's slow rhythm.

Runë felt she was close... Her hole body tensed up, causing her to arch her back. Ashlard took this moment, to bite her again. This was all she needed, feeling their emotional connection re-establish. Her core exploded.

Ashlard could taste her impending orgasm a split second before it happened. The moment her body began to shudder, he felt contractions wrap around him. Their connection exploded, forcing waves of bliss to pour into his body. Now he exploded inside her. There was no longer two people, but one singular moment of pure ecstasy as their mutual orgasms rebounded through their connection. It felt like hours before the feeling stopped. Ashlard barely had the strength to roll off Runë before he passed out.

That morning, as Ashlard opened his eyes, he found himself face to face with the most beautiful sight, he had ever seen. As if on queue, she opened her eyes, after a small stretch, he held her close, taking in her scent. Ashlard spent time admiring the glint of the morning sun across her skin, kissing her softly. Runë just lay in his arms, completely content in the idea of living in this moment forever.

They were interrupted by the sound of jingling chains, and with a growl, Runë grabbed her stomach, before silently laughing. The pair quickly dressed, before Ashlard retrieved their breakfast, turning back, Runë was wearing a short pink skirt with a red top, smiling, he realised she matched the ring she wore.

After their meal, Runë looked at Ashlard, before making motions with her fingers like walking.

"Do you want me to come?" asked Ashlard.

Runë quickly shook her head, silently giggling as Ashlard pulled her into a tight embrace, kissing her all while she made mock attempts to stop him.

"Be safe," he said, seeing her flash her beautiful smile, closing the door behind her.

Ashlard wasn't sure what to do with himself now, strolling out onto the balcony, bringing some cheese and a mug of water, he sat quietly on the edge, staring out over the city.

Runë quickly descended the stairs, she was excited, so much so, she collided head first with Ciray and almost tumbled down the stairwell.

With a quick apology hug, "Is Ashlard upstairs?" Ciray asked.

Runë nodded.

"Thank you, I'm delivering a message," she said, "I think Blain wanted to see you, he's in his office."

Rune quickly hugged her again. Their previous animosity already forgotten, and Blain was the exact person she wished to see.

Knocking on the large wooden door, she heard Blains voice.

"Who is it?"

Runë frowned, knocking again.

"Who is it damn it?!"

Runë practically bashed on the door this time, she heard hurried stomping, before the door practically flew open.

"This better be bloody im... oh," Blain regarded her for a moment. "Sorry, please, come in."

Runë settled herself on one of his cushioned chairs while he sat across from her, smoking his pipe. As well paid as he was, Blain thought of himself as a servant to the king, and smoking in his office was one of his few luxuries he allowed himself. The burning herbs, not unpleasant smelling, but powerful enough to give a pleasant effect. Blain never brought them onto the field, they would give away their position to easily.

Handing Runë a scrap of paper and a quill, he asked, "So what brings you here?"

Runë quickly scribbled.

IS YOUR OFFER STILL OPEN?

"Which offer might that be?" asked Blain, not unkindly.

Scribbling again.

I WISH TO PURCHASE A GIFT.

"What kind of gift?"

Runë motioned the shape of a necklace, with something round at the bottom. Pointing to her ring then pointing up towards the tower, clearly visible from an open window.

"I see," said Blain, "Take this, anyone you show it too, will charge my account. But tell Ashlard he'll owe me a favour," handing her a small silver cylinder, a symbol carved into one end.

Runë frowned now, quickly scribbling.

I DON'T KNOW HOW TO TELL HIM THAT.

"He can read can't he?" said Blain, "... He can't read... Can he..."

Ashlard was surprised to hear someone knock on the door. Putting aside his snack, he got to his feet, quickly walking inside, and opening the door.

"Hello Ciray," he said, recognising her red hair even before she turned to face him.

"Hello, Blain asked me to give you this," she said quietly, handing him a letter.

Ashlard quickly opened it, hoping it was a diagram, before spotting Ciray walking back down the stairs.

"Wait!" he called.

Ciray turned, her expression questioning.

"I," he paused, "I can't read this," holding up the letter.

Ciray sighed, walking back up the stairs, she took the letter from him, quickly going over it.

"It says there's an emissary from the neighbouring land arriving by boat this morning. You are requested to join the King for a welcoming dinner in the great hall... That's the one where you met me the other day," she said with a slight shudder at the end. "I probably should keep this to myself, I don't think this is common knowledge."

Ashlard thanked her, before returning to his view, wondering where Runë had gotten too.

Runë walked with almost a skip to her step as she followed the well used path towards the town market. She occasionally felt eyes on her, and she realised she stood out. Most people wore browns or greens and here she was wearing red and pink. But she felt it was more than that, every now and then, she swore she could hear people muttering, "Angel's bride." She was secretly proud to be recognised in relation to her dear Ashlard.

Entering the market, she walked around, taking a look at a few different stalls. Fruits and vegetables, some with flowers, weapons, every assortment of item. Thought she quickly walked past a sign directing people to a slave auction. Soon she found herself in front of a rough looking man selling a random jumble of items. Approaching the man, she bowed, he eyed her confused, she showed him her ring.

"Hmmm, semi-precious stone, expertly carved, I could probably sell this, how much do you want for it?" he said, straightening up.

With a gasp, Runë shook her head, holding it close to her chest, before quickly offering him a note, the man, clearly confused, took the note, opening it, he frowned.

"Can anyone read?!" he called out, dozens of eyes looking his way.

A guard, in simple armour approached the pair, taking the note, he read out loud.

"Looking for a stone, like the one carved into my ring, and someone to shape it, I have an account with Commander Blain."

The guard, quickly looked Runë up and down, before quickly bowing.

"Forgive me, my lady, I did not recognise you," he said quickly.

Runë patted his arm gently.

The guard turned to the trader, "Her name is Runë, she is mute, please help her," and quickly returned to his position, surveying the market square.

"Apologies, let me take another look at that ring," said the man with a smile. "May I?" indicating he wished for her to remove it.

Holding it close for a second, she questioned if she could bare parting with it, even for a moment, before shrugging, and handing it to the man. He placed it directly on a soft blanket, taking a look at it from several different directions, before suddenly stiffening.

"You're the Angel's bride... aren't you?"

Runë smiled.

"The Angel bought this stone from me yesterday, he sat over on that barrel for hours, I hadn't realised this is what he was doing," offering it back to Runë.

She quickly put it back on, feeling it secure again on her finger. The man started rummaging through his bags, before producing a small chunk, about half the size of a fist. Motioning for her to follow, he quickly walked her the the opposite side, where he showed it to a young woman, standing in front of various pieces of jewellery. She eyed the stone, then Runë.

"So what exactly do you need," she asked.

Runë thought for a moment, then motioned a tear falling from her eye, and then motioned a necklace, before pulling her hands into fists and made pulling motions.

"I don't have time for this, just spit it out," the woman said, crossing her arms.

Runë wasn't sure how to proceed, but the rough trader piped up.

"Sorry, she's mute," he said. "I think she wants to know if you can carve this stone," lifting the rock he was carrying, "into a teardrop shape, and attach it to a stretchy necklace?" looking at Runë for approval.

Runë smiled, nodding, the woman seemed to relax a little.

"Got money?" she asked.

Runë offered the silver cylinder.

The woman just looked at it, sighing, "I don't take trades, I deal in money, sorry," she said bluntly.

Runë quickly held it up, pointing the symbol at her, the woman snatched the cylinder from Runë.

"What did I just say, are you deaf as well?" she said loudly, flipping the cylinder over, spotting the carving in one end, she gasped.

"I'm so sorry, I didn't realise." The woman visibly grimaced. "Please, I'll get this done at once, I'll deliver it to Blain myself when it's done," the woman clearly panicking. "I'm so sorry, please give the Commander my thanks, he should know who I am."

The woman started packing up, muttering about getting back to her shop. The rough looking trader, bowed slightly to Runë and quickly returned to his wares. Runë decided to take a walk around now, take in the sights of the market, reasoning... You never know what you may find. As she was smelling some fine spices, she thought of home. Runë found herself wondering if she would ever have a kitchen she could cook in again. She would love nothing more than to fill it with herbs and spices, cooking for Ashlard and their future children.

Runë was pulled from her daydream by a firm hand grasping her shoulder. Pulling her around, she was face to face with a young man, wearing fine armour. He had long dark hair and unnaturally pale skin, she realised he was probably from the southern lands. It was cold in the south, and people tended to be rather pale, but what did he want with her?

"If I'm not mistaken, I should refer to you as, my lady, should I not?" he said, with a strange accent and a crooked smile.

Runë looked around, seeing if the trader from earlier could help, but he was busy dealing with a customer and hadn't noticed her.

"Now now, there's no need to be shy. I'm just looking for a beauty such as yourself to accompany me to dinner tonight," the man continued, "I may even have some ointment for that scar."

Runë was cross now, frowning, she shook her head and turned to walk away, the man roughly grabbed her wrist, pulling her around.

"That's very rude!" he said, clearly not used to people displeasing him.

Runë jerked her hand free, and tried to leave. That's when the man slapped her across the face, a bright red mark already showing as Runë gasped in shock. As she looked back up at him, the entire market had gone silent. All eyes were watching Runë, as she placed her hand on her cheek, feeling the bruise already forming.

"Now now, see, I'll buy you some makeup, we'll cover that lump and have a good evening, you'll see," he said, trying to take her hand again.

Runë pulled away quickly, when an old man stepped forward, "you'd better leave lad, we don't want any trouble," he said quietly.

"Trouble?!" the young man yelled, "I'm the Emissary to the Southern Kingdom!" he drew his sword, pointing it at the old man. "I'll have any woman I want, save the Queen herself, and some old badger past his prime isn't going to stop me!"

Runë quickly stood in front of the old man, shooting a quick smile. The young man was caught off guard, "you've changed your mind then?" he asked, sheathing his sword. "Come along, my lady, I'm sure you need a bath."

CRUNCH

The very ground shook, the man stumbling, the woman was staring behind him with a smile. Turning around, he was face to face with a demon. Over three meters tall, covered in black scales, wings outstretched, claws and talons, and those eyes... Burning red, like embers in a fire. The woman walked up to it, placing her arms around it's middle. Bending at the waist, it lent in, he could smell it's breath, he was surprised it was almost, fruity. But the sudden and powerful growl... He felt right to his very core. The man was left quivering in his boots, completely in shock. He just stared as this beast, gently picked up the woman in its arms and leapt into the sky, disappearing over a nearby building.