Chapter 6: The Inevitable Truth

"As electricity replaced steam, the need for this shop dwindled and it was finally abandoned, an old friend allowed to wither and die from neglect. So wasteful. So much like mankind itself…" Hellboy 2: Golden Army Novel. Chapter 8

It had been a tiring couple of days, Bamba just wanting to get out and about and enjoy the luxuries her home had to offer. Today she had a day to herself and she was glad for that but having not heard from the prince in several days she wondered whether his father had seen reason or whether he had landed on the wrong side of him. She worried deeply about him, sometimes not being able to sleep at night but she brushed the thoughts away knowing he was one of the strongest people she had ever met, a warrior in his actions but a gentle giant at heart. The day was warm, the sky blue and bright as Bamba had slung a thin silken shawl around her shoulders and had adorned a rough robe to scour the local market. Stalls selling every food under the sun, pieces of ornate and valuable jewellery and other merchants wares buzzed with activity. Imps and fairies of different colours flitted through the skies and Bamba was glad they had all the space in the world to roam free. Species of all magical races ambled or flew past her as she continued her search. Various species of goblins, trolls and merchant elves tried to attract business with different amounts of heckling while Bamba just strode through the lines of stalls, taking in the different sensations and smells around her, her senses catching a waft of Lipeg berries, her mother's signature cooking fruit. Species of all magical beings flew around or walked past her, all different but all at home. Pulling her cloak further around her so she wouldn't be recognised as an elf from a high family she examined several stalls until she found what she was looking for: a beautiful silver pendant with a cobalt trim, depicting Aiglin, the father tree. She was fascinated by it and took the delicate looking pendant in her hands, turning it over and examined the ancient language on the back, elvish sigils with other types of runes she was trying to make out. The short, stocky goblin who was running the stall eyed her curiously before seeing what the young lady was interested in.

"That be one of my most precious items. Though I find it hard to part with it everything's for sale here" he assured her in a gruff voice that made Bamba jump slightly as she put the pendant down gently before scanning the other pieces on display.

"I'm sorry I didn't know it was precious to you. I'll choose something else" Bamba said as she was about to pick up a bracelet of a similar nature when the goblin shook his head and pointed to the pendant, deep orange eyes sparking.

"Don't be silly girl. I said everything's for sale here. You are more than welcome to take it. For someone special I'm sure…" The goblin tried to make a joke, but it wasn't. Bamba had been meaning to buy the prince a gift for some time but she just wasn't sure what to settle on. Nuala had told her he had a soft spot for elven silver but that was all she could remember.

"Well yes…" said Bamba as she picked up the pendant and examined it again "As a matter a fact it is. How much shall I pay you?" Bamba asked, her eyes widening as he gave the price.

"Sorry girl but that one doesn't come cheap. It sure is a fine piece of your people's craftsmanship. Elvish made and carved, the four runes translate into an ancient fairy proverb, but I'll leave you to find out about that one" The goblin through a wink at her as Bamba fumbled in the pouch around her waist and found a suitable amount of money for payment. "Pleasure doin' business with you" the goblin thanked her for her patronage as Bamba carefully wrapped up the pendant in the small bag around her waist before she inclined her head, bidding him farewell. A stall bearing neatly woven cloaks caught her eye as the young elven woman weaving who was making the cloth was hard at work but made it looked so effortless. I just hope he takes a liking to it…Bamba thought hopefully as the next few hours were consumed by walking the rest of the market, just glad to be away from the stresses and strains of her daily life but sadly she knew she would have to go home and the imminent war that would be waiting for her goodness knows when.

Everyday war between the Sons of the Earth and the Sons of Adam seems to grow ever closer as the elven court took every possible action to postpone declaring an official rally to war, all accept one. The prince was not preparing to make peace with the humans. He would protect his people and home from those vile creatures if it was the last thing he did, and he would not be afraid of cutting down anyone who stood against him. Both him and his sister had lost their mother when they were but a few days old and it saddened him on more than one occasion that he had never got to appreciate the woman who had brought him into this world. However, he was glad she wasn't around to witness the planet on the brink of war. A war that the prince was personally training himself for. Despite the king's gathering of the court several times these past few suns to discuss a way for peace to sought with the Sons of Adam, most of his people were adamant after the latest bound of attacks that war was the only option. The humans were now moving ever closer, threatening to drive the magical creatures away from their homes, driving them to the far reaches of the earth but the elven prince would allow no such thing. Already cities had taken rise where lush forests used to grow, fumes choked the air in those parts and unknown machines were being built and used. The prince had made a vow to protect his people from any danger and if that meant the threat of mankind itself then so be it. Always keeping his techniques sharp and honing his skills the prince was going through one of his rigorous training routines, his trusted weapon, an extending hand-crafted spear with a lethal sharp tip spinning over and over in his one-handed grip. While many of his people preferred bows and swords this weapon had been his trusted companion for years but as a warrior of great skill he could accommodate all those weapons to suit his fighting style. His ornate, black and red battle tunic was placed on the ground beside him as he moved with preternatural speed, jumping and spinning through deadly combinations that in real combat would have sliced an opponent in half in a matter of moments as he continued the routine in one fluid motion, each move linking into the next, each transition more challenging than the last as he flipped backwards into a low crouch. Suddenly as the blunt end of the staff like spear hit the floor the pole extended to show the true length of his weapon, going through a variety of various parries, overhead thrusts and rotations before he was satisfied with his practice. The session having lasted a few hours he lowered himself to the ground, all his muscles warmed up and like elastic as he stretched out his legs in front of him, placing his hands behind him. The black combat gloves which he wore fitted his hands with precision, always a customary part of his dress when he practiced. His golden eyes fixed on the horizon for a moment he wanted to be able to predict their next attack. His heartbeat had risen five beats above normal at best, his stamina never allowing him to tire. The plans of man were vicious, deceptive no doubt a tactic to deceive them, but he would see through their manifestations and if need be drive them off the face of the earth. A good human is a dead human…The bitter thought fuelling his hatred for humanity even more so than before. Earth had been created along with the rest of the magical beings and other creatures and had been a peaceful, life-filled place until man came along. The Sons of the Earth had been created pure of the world, wanting nothing more than what they had been given and to live off the land and enjoy its natural resources. Whereas man…They had been created with a hole in their hearts, something that made them strive for more power, to expand their territory for personal gain, destroying everything in their path. They sought more than what they were born with, would always lust for more power until it caused their downfall. Much blood would be spilt and much of this world would be burnt to the ground if the magical races did not act. For many months the land had been subverted, unnatural buildings jutting towards the sky, poisonous gases beginning to fill the air. Man was so consumed by greed the would not rest until they possessed the earth in its entirety but on his life the prince wouldn't let that happen. A delicate breeze rustled the grassland around him, the wind blowing through the trees. The air was still pure here and all seemed at peace, but a strange feeling hung in the air, a feeling that was unsettling to all magical beings. They were going to fight, that much was true now but how long would this conflict draw on? War could destroy this world and that was one notion that the prince was trying to dispel. But the defence of his people came first even at the destruction of their blessings. His mind wondered to his father and how he was going to approach mending their bond. It was fractious at best with his openly defying tradition but that was for love…He still found it difficult to comprehend how his father didn't understand this. With time he would see reason but for now the defence of his people and his home was all that mattered. Having rested a while he rose to his full height, taking his weapon in his elegant grip as he resumed his training. He envisioned the humans being cut down by his blade, driving those monsters back and that made his movements stronger.

Despite the uneasiness that hung in the air, all creatures and magical beings wondering if the earth would reach a tipping point, Bamba's favourite glen was still as peaceful and beautiful as ever. The Sons of Adam and their quest for domination of the planet had not gone unnoticed by the other magical races and it had reached the elves that the orcs, ogres, goblins and trolls were to join the fight. Still the thought of her people dying, even in valiant battle made her heart sore. She knew the soldiers of her people were skilled warriors and would outmatch a man in combat in every circumstance, but this war was a gamble. Should the humans run them over many lives would be lost and the Earth destroyed but even should the magical creatures seize the day blood would be spilt and parts of their home would be ravaged by the fighting. It was sad to dwell on the thought so Bamba just basked in the company of the being who meant more to her than anything. She still had heard nothing from the prince about the latest discussions with his father and she wanted to know but every time she bought it up he dismissed the matter, so she assumed it was not good news.

The day was a blend of warm sunshine and nature's chorus as Bamba immersed herself in the season, no matter the dangers that could be around them. Besides she had nothing to fear. She had her strong warrior at her side and he would let no harm come to her. The elven pair walked through the woodland in silence, just basking in the pleasure of each other's company while the day was young. Trees and knotted roots pressed in and surrounded them in a mesh of different shades of green and brown, grass soft and pleasant beneath their tread, the various songs and cries of the creatures that dwelled here soothing to the ear. Nymphs and fairies also dwelled in these lush forests but Bamba knew sadly they would be caught up in the fighting with no way to defend themselves. Bamba was adorned in an emerald and silver dress, a gold and green bodice accentuating her elegant height and posture. A head piece of elven silver rested neatly over her forehead, her family crest displayed in the centre, shimmering in the dappled sunlight around them. More important to her was the elven clan birthmark that was growing across the bridge of her nose and over her cheeks. She had been concerned that the mark had taken longer to develop than most of her people, but she couldn't have been happier to see it taking shape. After all the dread of the coming war and realising the cruel advancing of mankind towards them was inevitable Bamba was blessed to have the strongest warrior at her side to distract her. The prince wore his customary black battle tunic, lined with crimson, a lighter black garment underneath it. On the red belt around his waist the royal Bethmoora symbol, displayed proudly in gold, while high black boots muffled his soft step on the earthy ground.

Away from the prying eyes of the court and the judgement of his sister and father the prince desired no other company, just desiring to spend every moment with her. They strode hand in hand through the vast woodland, so vast you could lose your way but Bamba knew her homeland well and could recognise every tree and plant by its colour. She, along with the rest of her people had such a strong connection to the earth that every grain, every blade of grass, every root and glade was familiar to them and was a part of their natural habitat. All part of the greatness of creation and the circle of life. Bamba wanted to ask about his latest discussions with his father but she assumed he wouldn't want to hear about it and so turned the topic of conversation to a lighter subject, his golden eyes immediately fixed on her.

"How is your dear sister? I just feel saddened as she hasn't been speaking to me of late. This is all my fault" Bamba muttered in regret, as this was true. The princess had not been speaking to her closest friend after her brother's latest argument with their father and Bamba couldn't help but think she had caused all of this, caused her king to turn against her and for her friend to almost ignore her. He gave her a serious stare before tightening his hand in hers with affection, not having her blame herself for any of this as they continued their slow but peaceful amble through the western forest.

"Bamba I will not have you talking like that" the prince scolded her slightly as he paused their walking pace to hold her face in his hands, engaging with the expression in her hypnotic eyes and knew she was worried, but she had no reason to be. "None of this is your fault and I don't want you to think in that way. You have done nothing wrong and I will not have the traditions of our people drive me away from you. I will take responsibility for my actions and face the consequences but without hurting you. I am responsible for this my Bamba and I won't let my father take you away from me. Bamba look at me…" His voice was comforting, understanding as his tone compelled her to look into his eyes and she saw it there, that loving gaze that had captured her heart, made him her everything. The softness of his touch on her skin soothing any anxiety. "I won't have you talking like that. Nothing is your fault…This is my fight Bamba and will be victorious I promise. I promise you" Bamba's disposition relaxed slightly at his words but couldn't help feel that there was more to this than he was telling her. His hand slipped to her jaw, lifting her face so that the sunlight caught her eyes and his heart swelled with happiness as he saw it, the growth of the Bethmoora birthmark across her nose. This was a proud moment for his people and for her. Some of the bark like markings on her willowy skin also becoming more defined, as if she was coming of age.

"It is most beautiful Bamba…You were always one of us, but you are even more so now. Always be proud of where you come from" the prince told her, his voice consumed with adoration as he planted a kiss on the bridge of her nose as Bamba nodded shyly but the response was strong from her heart, from the depth of her true being…A daughter of the earth.

"I will always remember where I come from sire. Earth will always be home no matter where I am and I'm happy with this life and blessed to be a part of this world. It means everything to me. I'm just so glad its started to show. I was worried I would be the only elf in Bethmoora without one!" Bamba smiled as the pair stayed locked in each other's arms for a few moments before they resumed their stroll, their gazes snapping instantly to a beautiful owl, mottled black and brown with burning orange eyes that swooped in front of them and flew up to its nest. Bamba's gaze lingering on the spot where it had been, the prince closing his eyes for a moment, revelling in the sounds and beauty that surrounded him. Even in these times of danger and their people almost on the brink of war his connection to the earth, like the rest of his people was only strengthen by man's determination to stamp their authority over the world and this would make the Sons of the Earth a formidable opponent when the time came.

"Some take longer to grow than others. If I remember rightly your mothers started to grow half way through her life. It is what makes us who we are Bamba. What makes the Sons of Adam human is what makes them human, but we are nothing like them…We appreciate our blessings and live on what we have been given. Mother nature has blessed us with wonderful and precious things and they should never been taken for granted…" the prince spoke with a wisdom beyond his years and Bamba had always understood what he meant but now more than ever. The humans destroyed what was in front of them if they had no use for it to expand the land and make homes for themselves. In the process they were polluting the air, poisoning the land, toxifying the soil, wasting precious resources and often killed each other in competition to build grander homes. The magical creatures had been created at one with the Earth and so were happy, sought no further power or possessions, were just blessed with mother nature and her gifts and that was all they needed to survive. It sickened Bamba to her stomach to think that people had been created on this world that were driven by such greed. She was only just beginning to come to terms with what sickening creatures they were, but still meeting a human in person could prove a vital lesson.

"Is it true that we are on the verge of war? Is there not a way to protect ourselves and our lands without a need for violence" Bamba asked, genuinely wondering if the world would ever know peace again if this conflict was to take place as he gave her a quizzical look, still wondering if she had sympathy for mankind, a want to understand them and their ways but he would not allow it. Would never allow those unfeeling, hollow creatures to get near her. He knew she was easily frightened so tried to break the news to her in the kindest but truest way as her heart sagged with sadness in her chest, not wanting any of her people to get hurt.

"Bamba my father has seen reason and now foresees war as the only option. Man will not retreat, they will not heed our warnings. We must take a stand and drive these creatures back otherwise they will take everything we have. These humans are destroying this world Bamba, they are taking our homes away from us and I will not let that happen…I will not let any harm come to my people…" the prince let her know his intentions as the thought of cutting down mankind filled him with a rush of adrenaline he hadn't felt since his father had begun the construction of his army of warriors with his son leading the front lines. That was also what Bamba was most afraid of. She was so in love with him she was terrified, no matter how skilled of a warrior he was being hurt or worse killed. She wanted to avoid war just to keep him save. Yes, she knew he could fight, was one of the most skilled and prestigious warriors on Earth but she feared the worst, could only fear the worst if he was hurt on the field of battle. His voice snapped her from her thoughts as he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close, the beating of her heart pounding against his chest. War was on the horizon and if anything, he was frightened, would do anything to keep her from the fighting but a heavy weight settled into his heart that she would be caught in the violence. A being as pure and kind as her should be kept far from the bloodshed. He would not have his pure lily, his precious Bamba hurt, would stop those horrible creatures from laying one finger on her.

"I…" Bamba breathed out quietly, her voice a mere tremble as his embrace tightened around her, pressing his warm lips to her forehead as her hands hung limp by her sides, trying to will away the tears. "I don't want us to go through this. I don't want our people to die…I don't want you to fight, please I beg you. I wish everything to be well but if we war it won't be…" Bamba let out her tears, bunched against him, face buried against his chest as she began to sob quietly, shoulders shaking slightly. Even the stroking of his hand up and down her back couldn't stop her tears as she bunched her hands into fists and slammed them against his chest in frustration, tears flowing over her milky skin. Having the upper body strength which he had, and his battle armour made him not feel a thing as he tried to calm her down, but she got her words out first, raising her voice in urgency, inclining her tear stained face to catch his gaze. Seeing the stony expression on his face almost deterring her from her words but she found her voice. "You can't fight. I won't let you!" She tried to shout, trying to shoot an intimidating look through her eyes but it didn't work as he just gazed back at her. He understood what she meant but this was one battle that could not be avoided. He was going to war to defend his home; his people and the Sons of the Earth would roam free and peacefully once again. He just needed her to understand that but the young Bamba was struggling to come to terms with him on the battlefield and it hurt her heart more than she wanted it to.

"Bamba my Bamba please listen to me…" the prince began calmly but Bamba continued, looking up at him in desperation, piercing golden eyes glistening with water, begging him to change his mind but it was not going to happen. She grabbed onto his tunic, tears still welling up in her eyes as she shook him slightly.

"No! Now for the love of the gods would you listen to me! Our people our dying, our homes are being destroyed. We will never see them again! But I don't want to lose you too. There are thousands of them and they will outnumber us. More of our people are going to die, more places like this will be destroyed and I don't want that. That I why I don't want you to fight…" Bamba wept into his chest, locking her arms tight around his middle, never wanting to let go, just pressing her cheek to his tunic. "I'm scared you won't come back…" His voice replied, sympathetic yet strong, lowering his lips to the warm skin beneath her hairline.

"So, you don't believe I have the strength to stand up to them…" the elven prince murmured, disappointment evident in his voice, making Bamba regretting her choice of words slightly as she replied, trying to rectify what she'd said, her voice frail and choked with tears. He hated to see her this upset, just wanted to take all her pain away but had to remind her of one thing. He was one of the finest warriors ever the walk the earth, a prime example of his species trained in combat and it was deadly sight to behold. He was more disappointed at the simple statement that she did not believe in his abilities.

"Of course, I believe in you. I have every faith that you will lead our people to victory and I didn't mean to say it in that way…I just don't want you to fight…I don't want…" Bamba still continued to cry, her voice choked with sadness as before she had time to say another word his voice was so gentle, the most comforting she had ever heard it and at this her tears seem to dry on her cheeks, their foreheads touching as Bamba just closed her eyes and basked in the sounds of nature, the strength and kindness of his presence and just listened.

"I know how you feel Bamba. If there was a way to avoid this confrontation trust me it would have be found. My people need me Bamba. We have an army of the finest warriors that stand able to ready to fight and I am their leader. Don't you see Bamba…" the prince explained firmly but with all the kindness he could muster as he wrapped his arms around her shaking shoulders, connecting with the sadness in her eyes and knew how she must be feeling. "My people need me. I am a pivotal part of the war effort and without me to lead our army the humans will gain the advantage. I cannot let that happen and it won't, but I need you to be with me…I need you Bamba. Without you to believe in me my blade will be blunt…I can't do this without you…Please Bamba. You are the only person who has ever understood me since I first came to this world and you continue to give me all the happiness I could ever hope for…" He whispered softly, his words more meaningful than they ever had been as Bamba had opened up her heart and listened and understood now. He needed her support, her kindness, her loving heart to be by his side. Not on the battlefield, away from the danger but just to be the kind soul for him to return home to when the fighting was over.

"I understand…" Bamba breathed quietly, lowering one of her pointed ears to her chest to hear his heart, a sound that always comforted her. "You have a task of great importance and no matter the danger I will always be with you regardless of the path you take. You have made me realise what is ahead and the responsibility you have. You have my support and love always…" Bamba cooed sweetly, just wanting to be in the arms of her elven warrior and for him never to let go but suddenly she remembered the gift she'd bought him that morning. She broke away from him slightly to take the small pouch, woven with intricate Celtic patterns from her pocket as she slipped it into his hand. Surprised, the prince was lost for words before Bamba spoke, explaining her reason for the gift. "You've given me so much, sacrificed so much for me I didn't know what to give back to you. This probably won't repay you for all you've done for me. I don't know if you'll like it. It's only a small gift…" Bamba apologised, lowering her head for fear he would give the gift straight back but instead the prince just gazed in wonderment at the small pouch in his left hand, looking at her endearingly. "If you don't like it I can always take it back and get a replacement. The goblin was unsure about its origin…" Before she could say anything else, a placed a deep kiss on her forehead, cupping both hands under her ears, nuzzling her with affection.

"For me…Bamba I don't know what to say…" the prince replied in a voice consumed with adoration as he opened the beautiful pouch carefully and the contents fell into his palm. An ornately hand-crafted pendant of Aiglin, with a cobalt rim, the silver shimming in the sunlight. Seeing the beauty of the gift made him speechless for a moment before he turned the pendant over in his palm and ancient elven runes met his eyes, translating them with ease before reading the fairy proverb engraved on the back.

"There is supposed to be a fairy proverb on the underside but I'm not sure what it says…Can you make it out?" Bamba asked as slightly stunned he broke away from her and turned his back to her, gazing up above at the vast expanse of tree tops above him, closing his eyes, feeling the sunlight on his skin before turning his attention to the beautiful gift in his hand.

"Every moment is a day in the sun…Children of Earth our lives have begun. That is what our language says but I cannot quite make out…" he began until a ray of sunlight caught the pendant and it shone with a powerful lustre, the fairy runes becoming more visible as being fluent in all the magical creature's native languages he translated and read it aloud. "Although the road is tough before us, we have the strength to walk it. Fly and the Earth will follow, strong and brave we will face tomorrow…" As Bamba listened with fascination he exhaled deeply, holding the pendant close to his chest before turning to her, a warm smile letting her know it was a generous gift. "It is most beautiful Bamba. I shall treasure it always…Thank you" the prince regained his composure before slipping the elegant silver chain around his neck as he held out a hand to her to resume their stroll as Bamba beamed, accepting his hand in hers as they conversed about other matters, both forgetting about the war and the invasion of man for a time. A good hour and a half had passed before the tired elven girl and the prince sat themselves down under the shade of the giant tree, resting his back against the strong trunk, trusting its support while Bamba rested her head on his chest, almost drifting off in a light doze with the pleasant sounds of nature around her and his arm around her shoulder. After a moment he spoke, running a hand through her white-blonde hair as she listened intently, she always listened to him.

"I shall keep this day close to my heart. Our home is indeed glorious in the sun and I cannot think of anyone who I would rather share this moment with…I'm sorry for having ever angered at you. All those times I mistreated or upset you I just want to apologise. You have given me all the kindness I could ever hope for in this world and I never want to lose that…" His hypnotic and loving words, sending her into a state of paradise as if her soul was floating on air, his soft fingers still combing through her hair, stroking her scalp.

"You won't…I promise…" Bamba almost hummed her response but he heard her and that was enough.

"I will make my father see reason Bamba. I realise now you are the only girl who will ever have my heart. No one else deserves it Bamba. You and you alone with have my heart and my father will see that or I refuse to be of his blood. He will not take you from me and no matter how much he tries he will not succeed…I promise…" The prince had made a few promises to her but every single one was true. He would never lie to her. If his father would not grant him permission to bind himself to her then he would refuse to converse with him until he relented.

"I love you very dearly, my lord of course I do but I do not want this bond we share to drive a rift between you and your father. Your sister is also a dear friend to me and I will not lose her. There must be a way to approach this…" Bamba said but trailed off as she felt him reach for a hand which she'd rested on his knee. "Still did you know I saw another Shaymin yesterday" She smiled warmly, still with her eyes closed, hearing his heartbeat drum in her head. "That is blessings and good luck, so you never know. Everything may turn out alright in the end…You'll see…" Bamba said in a laidback tone as he had been listening to her while examining the bark like markings on her face. All the faces of the elves were unique as the tree like markings which lined their faces were different and contrasting, never having the chance to examine them before, he traced his fingers along the markings, counting to himself.

"Three of the root markings…Very interesting…" he mused to himself as Bamba could feel herself blushing then she giggled, golden eyes gazing endearingly up at him. "I didn't know you were ticklish Bamba…" he arched an eyebrow down at her as she was just enjoying the moment but had ended up laughing, admitting he was right.

"Maybe, but two can play at that game!" Bamba laughed suggestively as wondering what she meant she caught him off guard, pulling him down into the grass trying to hold him down but he'd already predicted what her next move was and overpowered her with little effort, being as gentle as he could as he pinned her to the earthy ground, Bamba trying to fight back at first before she saw his golden eyes gazing lovingly down at her and she didn't want to move or fight, just wanted to hold him. Wanted to keep telling him how much she loved him, but he knew.

"You are going to have to be a bit quicker than that Bamba to beat me…But for a first try that was a noble attempt" a friendly smirk flashing across the prince's face as she wanted to find words to reply with, but they were lost in her throat. "I'll give you a five second head start next time…" Bamba's laughing died away slowly and the moment was still there, nothing around them but a light breeze rustling grass and leaves, as the grass around her face tickled her skin.

"Trust me sire that was me not even trying. Why didn't you let me win!" Bamba whined playfully as he lowered himself to his forearms, gazing longingly at her, eyes transfixed on hers.

"I don't surrender Bamba. I thought you knew that…" Bamba should have seen that response coming but, in the end, they just lay in the grass together. He was not going to makes advances towards her without her strict permission and this was another barrier he was going to cross. Without his father's permission if he gave himself to her then they would be bound together which was what he wanted but his father had not consented to his binding to her. This was another problem he wanted to overlook, for their sakes but only if she permitted it. He respected her honour, boundaries and would not ask for something she wouldn't give. Seeing worry furrow his brow slightly, Bamba wondered what was wrong but he lowered lips to her chin and began to move soft kisses under her fair jawline. Bamba wrapped her arms around his neck, not wanting to say anything but if he was concerned about anything she wanted him to tell her.

"What's wrong?" Bamba asked as she just wanted to drift away with the pleasant feeling, his lips on her skin, his scent almost intoxicating, like fresh rain from a stormy sky, combined with fresh grasslands and pollen. Sighing as he didn't want to answer her but knew she was only concerned, she returned the attention he was giving her, placing several kisses up the bridge of his nose and across his birthmark.

"I will not advance you any further Bamba if you feel at all uncomfortable or without your permission. The following stage after courtship would be…" he was about to finish but Bamba just pulled him close, never having felt like this for anyone. She wanted to ignore everything now. Her family, the rest of her people, the world, just to give all her focus and love to him. She looked lovingly into his eyes and finished his sentence, but she didn't seem scared or worried. If anything, she had been waiting for this moment for a long time. Secretly the prince had been courting her for the last six months behind his father's back, but his sister knew full well what he was up to, trying to reach out to him but using his talents he would keep blocking her voice from his head until she left him alone. She was not going to ruin the one chance he had to be with the girl he loved, nor would the laws of his people prevent that. Her voice was muffled by the kisses he was planting on her lips. Her lips balmy and soft, the taste of the earth on his mouth, making him yearn for her.

"Mating…" she replied as surprised at her boldness in the answer he gave her a curious look before they shared tender kisses in the grass. She leaned forward a fraction, so she could connect her lips to his neck, trailing a soft hand over his chest.

"Yes…" he whispered, sharing a knowing between both pairs of eyes but he would never bring himself to dishonour her. That would be something he could not forgive. "This moment has been on my mind for some time, but I will not advance you without your permission. It has to be a mutual process…" Bamba's heart almost swooned again for his constant caring for her. Always putting her needs before his, making her feel as if she was the only female of their species alive in the world. Bamba knew she was being selfish here. She could damn her entire family, make them exiles of this world, loose everything else she loved but the being she loved more anything was in her arms, spoiling her in his affections and no matter the laws of her people she was not going to give him up…She couldn't.

"I have been thinking about it too and my heart is open to you. My heart, body and soul are yours and they are yours to keep. I am blessed to share this world with you and all that I am, all that I will ever be…I am yours…" Bamba purred softly as his heart which usually was as hard as stone was melted by her words. She had been the only person to look inside his heart, to find the kind, soft interior that was within and he was so glad she had otherwise they wouldn't be sharing this moment now, or even know each other. Bamba with her kindness had unlocked the love in his heart and he owed him a debt that he would never be able to pay her. Feeling her soft kisses on his skin like honeysuckle, her hands moving down his back as he slipped his arms free of his battle tunic, letting it fall to the floor beside him. She didn't want to miss an inch of his strong frame as she finally laid eyes on what a warrior's body was truly like and all the doubts she previously had washed away. He could cut down anyone who dared to challenge him in battle and that made her feel relief, unlacing the string of her bodice, finding it easier to breathe now.

"I am the most blessed being alive to have a woman like you Bamba. No one else is as fortunate as me…I love you Bamba. So very, very much" the prince purred softly against the crown of her head as Bamba found no need to respond because he already knew. Knew how much she loved him. Words became actions as Bamba's heart and mind turned to air, air that was so pure and clean she wanted to breathe it forever. As the blissful moment became pleasurable the gentle coolness of evening began to envelope the glen, Bamba just not wanting the moment to end as two of Earth's purest living creatures mated under the darkening sky. The circle was complete.