Arc II: The Swan Princess

Chapter 14: Final Song

"Surrender and your lives will be spared!" King Tigreal declared. "This I swear by the Lord of Light."

Without Minotaur and the sorceress Vexana, the enemy forces were reduced to a low number of mercenaries and Gossen's cult. Demoralized and wiped out, with the king's allies rushing in to the secure keep, the hired swords had no option left. Many lay down their weapons and submitted themselves to the mercy of the king. Of a thousand that had stormed the castle, hundreds knelt before Tigreal, hundreds more were fleeing to the river, while an unknown number lay dead. It was even an optimistic sight; there was never a war or a full rebellion, just a failed coup attempt with a low body count.

Rafaela hovered near Tigreal, her light illuminating the courtyard brighter than any torch. Somehow, the angel was a part of this land's religion - her image had appeared in some stained glass and statues that could be seen outside the cathedral. The king's allies, Odette, Lancelot and and mercenaries alike, stared at Rafaela like she was some kind of miracle. Some, upon realizing that they were seeing a real angel, begged for forgiveness.

"No number of coins are worth your lives," Rafaela said. "I am the Angel of Healing, and I promise you that the king will keep his word." The woman spread her arms, inviting in a motherly voice; "Come children, healing is for everyone."

Zilong looked around, wary of any desperate fool who would try to assassinate the king at this moment. He eased and straightened his posture as the monarch approached him. Tigreal walked slowly with a limp and Natalia quickly ran to help him walk.

"Who are you, easterner?" Tigreal stood before Zilong a full head taller. "I'd like to thank you for protecting me earlier."

"I am Zilong, your highness." He de-materialized his spear and bowed low. "I bear a message from the Elven king. The angel Rafaela has brought accompanied me to this country, as well as an ambassador from the Moon King himself." He pointed to Miya who was busy speaking to a woman with an eyepatch. "I met Natalia who brought me to this castle."

The conversation was cut short when some knights arrived, saving Zilong from a longer explanation."Your highness, we have cornered the Duke and his followers. They are within firing range. Shall we eliminate them?" The captain asked the king.

"No. Keep them alive. Their crimes would not be judged tonight, but in court. The kingdom should be ruled by the law," Tigreal replied.

While the other knights kept watch of the prisoners, Tigreal walked towards the eastern rampart. The tiny number of cultists, including the Duke were trapped in one corner near a barrack, surrounded by Tigreal's troops, including Odette and Lancelot.

Odette moved forward and shouted; "Surrender now, Duke of Cranberry. Your crimes are as clear as day. You betrayed the friendship between our families, attacked my castle, my mother and now the king. Your greed was your downfall, but you can still preserve the little dignity you have left."

"Shut up little girl! You lost the opportunity to be my wife and become the most powerful woman in the kingdom. You're nothing but a fool!" The Duke snarled back.

"I'd rather marry another swan than have anything to do with you!" Odette shouted back and stuck out her tongue. The knights closed in to the cult.

The Duke looked enraged, his crumpled face emphasized by the torches that surround his group. "Kill us and you have no means to summon Vexana any longer." His lips curved into a mocking expression; "You need me to use her."

"Enough," Tigreal said, irritated. "Arrest them!"

Without warning, daggers flew and hit the Duke right in his chest. The man dropped dead as log on the ground. Zilong looked for the perpetrator - Gossen was hiding inside a nearby building, preparing to strike again. The rest of the cult retaliated with magical blasts and tried to escape. Another battle commenced, but this time, the other side was only prolonging their inevitable loss. Zilong entered the building, looking for the young man. Gossen should stop; fighting a defeated opponent was meaningless. Weakened by the magic, the pillars began to collapse along with the painted ceilings of the castle. "Gossen, watch out!"

Zilong dived in and protected Gossen with his body. The warrior didn't know the extent of the destruction, but he felt his back battered by the castle's debris. A few seconds passed until Zilong was covered in total darkness, heavy weights pressing against his back as Gossen groaned in pain underneath. The warrior breathed deeply and drew out his spiritual power. With one push, the concrete slabs resting on top of him slid down.

"Holy crap… are you human?" Gossen wheezed as he lay on the ground. The moonlight revealed dust and blood covering the young man's body. Having been blasted by fire, his sleeves were gone and his burned skin exposed.

Zilong massaged his temple, still throbbing from the rock hitting his skull earlier. He shook his hair, dusted his clothing and looked around. Good; it seems nobody saw him. Under the cover of the thick smoke, they were invisible. "Hey, you didn't see anything," he told Gossen. "I saved your life, you keep quiet about this."

Gossen's back remained on the ground, his eyes staring at the stars above. "Why?"

"Why what?"

"Why save me? I just murdered my uncle. I'm no better than my family."

Zilong lifted his head to stare at the night scratched his head, finding the right words; there was a chance it could change the person's life. Zilong was never a mentor, but he knew what young men needed to hear. "It just deserve a second chance." A memory flashed in his mind, of a boy throwing shurikens, challenging him for another duel. Gossen must be his age. "You remind me of-" Zilong stopped himself and banished the images in his head- of happy and peaceful days. " If you choose to stay, I'll tell the king you helped us. Natalia will help you too I am sure of it. But if you choose to leave, I won't stop you."

"Just like that? Guess it's a thanks then. I'm free… I can't believe it. I'm free." Gossen sat up as he laughed. The young man turned his head away from Zilong and wiped his face with the back of his hand, shoulders shaking. After a long silence, he spoke. "You know, my real name is truly Gossen. My mother gave me that name, tells me she wanted me to be proud of our eastern heritage." He stood up as the sound of footprints neared. "Goodbye Zilong, say congratulations to Odette for me. We may never meet again, but at least you know my real name. That's how I'm going to be; no, that's who I have always been."

It was surreal. A few weeks ago Odette met the love of her life. Days ago she thought she lost everything when her mother and everyone she knew was petrified. Just last afternoon, she managed to encounter the actual Angel of Healing- then at midnight she learned she was a princess. Never she would have thought she would fight in an actual battle. Dawn was near; and everything seemed to have stabilized as no more attacks were reported. The Duke was gone. Mercenaries surrendered. Lancelot was back; and according to the Vance siblings, her mother and the Swan Castle's inhabitants were back to human.

What a tale, Odette thought. Everything that happened should be told in a song, a dance and a story. What mattered most was that in the end she gained new friends and family. Like a fairy-tale.

Maybe just a wishful thinking; at dawn she would be swan again and her curse revealed. Here in the cathedral full of the noble families, knights, servants, and nurses tending to the wounded, she would transform for everyone to see.

Odette distracted herself as she helped wrap bandages to Lancelot's wounds. She couldn't meet her lover's eyes as she gently cleaned his face with a towel. Despite being healed by Rafaela, the mark on Lancelot's face would be permanent.

Lancelot stared at his reflection in a mirror, adjusting the angles of his face and making different facial expressions- even puckering his lips like a duck. He flipped his hair and stared at the mirror with wistful eyes before furrowing his brows, "I look much more fierce now because of the scar. I need to make a 'mysterious' or 'edgy' look, what do you think Odette?"

She tried to find the right words. Lancelot's face changed forever because of her. "I.. yes that seems nice."

He just stared at her with loving eyes and gently took her hand - he kissed it and pressed it on his cheek. "Odette, please don't worry. You didn't fall in love with me because I had the perfect face and beautiful hair. This tiny scratch wouldn't change anything about us." Lancelot said, smiling.

"Of course it wouldn't!" Odette echoed. "Nothing would change-" she choked on the last words and tears began to pool in her eyelids. Why did she deserve this man? Why shouldn't Lancelot just find a normal partner? Someone who could be human all day, all his life.

"What's wrong? You can tell me anything Odette."

"I need to tell you..." she grasped his hands. The sky turned lighter at each minute, like a golden paint spilling over a dark canvas. If this would be the last moments she would have with Lancelot as her beloved, then he deserved only the truth. As tears flowed down her face, Odette told him about the curse of her family - the real reason why she was always absent during the day. "I kept on believing true love would break the curse. I wanted you to be my prince charming, someone who will save me and let me live happily ever after. But because of that, I got you involved in this!"

Lancelot shook his head and leaned forward, extending his hands and inviting her to embrace.

Odette looked away from Lancelot curled on her seat. "I'm sorry, I didn't tell you. You deserve better than this." Odette sniffed and shuddered as the first light of revealed the white clouds in the sky. Her body began to glow and fade like mist. She heard the gasps of everyone inside the cathedral, their eyes noticing the beginning of her transformation. The young woman stood up and began to look for an exit. Maybe she could run away. Hide her shame somewhere. Anywhere. She ran towards the garden.

"Odette!" Lancelot grabbed Odette's shoulders and made her face him. "When I said I love you, I meant it. Maybe true love can't break the curse, but I our love can defeat it." His big, warm hands cupped her face and his face drew closer. Odette can only close her eyes as their lips touch. Everything was just him; the smell, the taste, the warmth on her skin. Nothing else existed but the two of them.

As the kiss broke, Odette can't help but grin and bit her lip. This was happiness. "Despite everything you…"

"I had always believed in true love; the moment I saw you I knew you were the one. I knew we were destined to be together." Lancelot wrapped his arms around Odette's waist and she wrapped hers around his neck. "However, I learned something because of you; true love isn't magic. I want to love you because it felt magical, I want to love you despite everything." He showered her lips with little kisses as their foreheads and noses touch. "I want to get to know you more, spend years with you, live with you. I don't care if it's all nighttime, because my nights would be lonely without you." Another kiss and Odette giggled. Lancelot continued as he stared deep into her eyes; "I want to love you until we get wrinkles, lose our shape, our skin sag, and our teeth fall off." They laugh together until Lancelot's voice softened. "Even if you don't want any of that, I'll let you go and still love you."

Odette shook her head. "You don't have to let me go. Thank you, Lancelot. I guess… I am not afraid now. If you can accept me, then I don't have to run way. You give me courage." The lady close her eyes and leaned on to kiss one last time. No lips touched hers and she lost the sense of her skin. Lost the feeling of her long hair against her back. As Odette opened her eyes, all she could see was Lancelot's scraped knees.

Lancelot crouched and stared at her. At this angle, he looked like a giant and his green eyes like saucers. He stroked her head with his finger. "I guess you can rest for now my love, we can talk again later."

She opened her beak and produced a trumpet-like noise, the best she could give. How nice. It's going to be a long day.

Perhaps it was fated that their dip in the Swan Lake wouldn't be a refreshing swim, but rather it was a whirlpool that pulled everything to clash in an epicenter. Rafaela mused if the metaphor was a good way to describe the events. After the battle, Tigreal barely rested. He personally visited every soldier who was wounded, thanking them for their loyal service. Before nightfall, he led a ceremony honoring those who laid down their lives for their country. There was so much to do; put the rebels and mercenaries to the court, release and official statement to the kingdom, arrange for the proper funeral for the heroes, among other duties.

"Truly a man of courage and compassion. I want to see him meet Estes, I'm sure they would be friends." Miya remarked as they watched Tigreal spoke to some officials before excusing himself. Rafaela advised Tigreal to sleep and rest but instead, he arranged a private discussion with the angel, Miya, Zilong as well as Lancelot and Odette. They were seated on couches surrounding a table filled with old books about ancient history that might be relevant. Castle Lakeshire not only offered a historical cathedral, but its library contained the oldest chronicles in their land. One of the books contained an interesting information; apparently, the sorceresses Vexana used to be a beautiful woman who was married to one of the old kings. Something happened that twisted her into ghoul that terrorized the kingdom. The oldest being that could have been their direct source of information about the Blood Queen was vengeful spirit they just banished again. How convenient.

As soon as Tigreal entered the room, the woman Natalia suddenly appeared and shut the door. "Again I have to apologize that your visit ended up quite eventful," the king said to his three visitors as he seated and joined them. "The last time Rafaela talked to the king of Felise, the kingdom was suffering a plague and she saved us." He smiled. "That was centuries ago but we never forgot. We are eternally grateful." As Tigreal acknowledged the past, Miya's jaw dropped as she looked at Rafaela with disbelief. Zilong didn't react. "Your actions will be remembered as well, as long as this kingdom lives."

Rafaela tilted her head as she remembered. "Centuries ago? It felt like it was yesterday." She let out a short laugh. "I remember your ancestor. He wasn't as tall as you and his hair was blond, and didn't look like you at all." Tigreal laughed. The humor was welcome as the meeting would eventually need to discuss some urgent matters.

Tigreal first cleared the truth about what happened. After discussing Odette's lineage in private, they decided to explain the politics behind the rebellion: Odette's father was Tigreal's second-cousin but was disowned and stripped of his status when he married Ophelia Regina. The curse might not be well known outside the Swan Castle, but the royal family did; the Queen Mother didn't approve of the union and refused to acknowledge Odette was a princess. Perhaps Gusion's cult had known this secret that they aggressively pushed marriage.

"The demons and orcs are growing in number and raiding some villages. Even people outside my kingdom are fleeing here." Tigreal said, with sadness in her eyes. "I lost all my brothers from these attacks. Last year, I lost my younger brother Leon from the demon Balmond." He spoke in a low voice. Natalia took his hand, making him smile a little. "As much as I want to seek justice and smite the demon, I cannot venture out of our borders. I must protect this country."

"I'm here for you Uncle Tig," Odette declared. The girl was essentially Tigreal's last family member- at least the only one fit to inherit the throne. "I'll continue watching over the Swan Lake. Lancelot will be with me." She turned to the young man beside her.

Rafaela knew demons existed the same way angels did. They were simply made by some cultures call as the Lord of Darkness, as the angels were born from Heaven. The demons gain flesh and stay on the mortal realm while angels wander as spirits unless there is a need to interact with mortals. Rafaela had no explanation why demons increased in number and how the animalistic orcs grew in power as well. None except Estes' theory; that perhaps an old calamity, brought by the being called the Queen of the Apocalypse was rising.

"Our scholars say the demons found a way to disappear and move around the continent by magical means. They are more advanced than we thought." Natalia explained as she laid out the map of the western continent. "The church has been investigating them, and found out that they left magical residuals of a single nexus."

"We find that nexus, we stop their invasion. Only if that was simple." Tigreal proceeded to read the scroll from Estes, a somber expression in his eyes. "I have great desire to meet your king if circumstances allow it, "he told Miya. "Elves and humans have lived apart peacefully for a long time, but I believe this is the time of unity."

"He will be glad to speak with you in person Your Highness," Miya replied, sounding enthusiastic. "Your emissaries would be welcome in our forests with utmost hospitality."

"I cannot leave but I can send over these records we have. Felise is an old kingdom, but it was established at a time of great prosperity. The calamity that happened must be far older. Would King Estes mind all these books to read?"

The elf nodded. "He'll be thrilled to read them. In fact, I bet he can finish all of these within a week."

Tigreal let out a hearty laugh. "Good! Someone else can do the work!" He leaned closer to all of them and whispered. "Just between us, I really hate reading." The king leaned back on his chair and sighed. "I can just imagine how the combined elven and human armies together, magic and might, brothers and sisters hand-in-hand. Although; I have to admit, Zilong-" He addressed the warrior across him. "The western armies are powerful, but the true power is the east. The eastern continent has at least thrice our number."

"But more than thrice the division." Zilong ran his hand through his head. "We'll get there eventually, and figure things out…"

"I see," Tigreal tapped the table with his fingers. The king beckoned them to stand and directed them to some old stone artifacts in display.

"Miya, you recognized these?" Odette asked. "These were recovered here in Felise. We have a lot of Elven ruins scattered. Years ago when there was a drought, the Swan Lake dried up and revealed Elven buildings underneath."

The elf nodded. "In the ancient times, the Elven Kingdom stretched as far as the Askati Forest. For some reason, Elven civilization collapsed and left the lands unoccupied and available for humans. Some ancient murals showed a tribe living in Askati, but they just seemed to have disappeared." Miya touched the stone artifacts, gently tracing engraved markings with her fingers. "You know what? We cannot even read this anymore. Only our king could, because his magic allows him to connect to our ancestors."

Tigreal spoke; "My father used to send the best scouts and scholars to investigate the Elven ruins in the Askati Forest. However; sometimes they never return, sometimes they come back without remembering anything. That is why my father stopped and decided not to risk more lives." Tigreal explained and led them to painting showing a woman with dark wings, her eyes covered. "He did learn something from tribes who live at the edge of the forest; a being named Pharsa guards the forest."

"Pharsa? The mythical being?" Odette asked, with eyes wide in surprise. "How old is this painting uncle?"

"Four thousand years." The king answered. "Although we never know if this woman in the painting is the same Pharsa that people talked about."

"Then we find out." Zilong stepped in. "This will be our next destination."

"Perhaps the Angel of Healing can talk to her," Miya remarked. "You know, convince her to be on our side… hopefully, she isn't like Vexana."

"Or perhaps a demigod can talk," Rafaela replied, lifting her eyebrow at Zilong who shrugged.

The next painting made Rafaela's heart skip a beat. It depicted the Angel of Justice with a sword, defeating orcs and demons. The painting was romantic, colorful and in every way, portrayed Argus as a savior. Odette walked over and touched Rafaela's shoulder. "What does Argus look like? Is he handsome?" The girl asked giddily, unaware of the angel's feelings. "Why doesn't he take off his helmet?"

Rafaela kept her face and her voice emotionless, just stating facts; "He's beautiful. He never wanted people to associate him with beauty, he wanted to be seen as a symbol of power. But just for me, he'd show his face."

Odette still wore an innocent smile, getting a romantic impression of how Rafaela described her partner. "I've always wanted to ask; where is he? He had never spoken to us directly, but he had aided us in times of need."

"He has fallen," Rafaela answered, not keeping her eyes off the painting as the void in her heart grew. Not wanting for anyone to see her face. "I wish not to speak of it."

"Henceforth, I shall dub thee: Princess Odette Annelise Isabella Christensen Regina," Tigreal anointed Odette with a ceremonial sword as she knelt in front of the king. "Now rise, my heiress." Odette stood up and faced the audience, holding both sword and staff with her hands- now symbols of her power. The priests draped a magnificent cape over her shoulders, while Tigreal placed a crown on her head made of silver and decorated with wings.

Miya stood up with everyone in the audience; the nobles, knights, governors, and even the common folk clapped and cheered for their new princess. The choir sang heavenly songs that filled the place and petals rained upon the grand hall. Rafaela sang along beside Miya who tried to follow with the words. Zilong was… somewhere in the castle. His seat was empty.

"I promise my eternal loyalty to the Kingdom of Felise. I shall protect it until the end of my life." Odette declared, everyone was silent as she spoke. "I was cursed from birth and suffered, but I want to be proof that despite such disability, with courage and love, we can rise up." Her eyes shifted to the audience. "I can never be here without my mother, whom I love dearly, and my beloved father who watches over me from heaven." Lady Regina, despite her back turned from Miya, visibly wept in joy with her daughters words. "I thank the king but I can never be here without the support of the people who fostered me in the Swan Castle, as well as the brave soldiers who protected their motherland. Also; I owe a great debt to three travelers who selflessly risked their lives for the sake of others," Odette didn't look at Miya and Rafaela, honoring their request to be anonymous. "Then in the midst of darkness, I found my knight."

Lancelot walked forward after a cue and knelt in front of Odette. With the same words Tigreal used, with her newfound authority, the young man was dubbed Sir Lancelot Pierre François Du Pont Baroque, Knight of the Swan Lake. Odette declared his innocence, proven by key witnesses he saved, and proclaimed his bravery. Lancelot's father and his sisters wept loudly and dramatically in the audience.

After the cheers have faded, Lancelot began to sing. "Let me take you away my love. Let me take you in my arms." His voice was rich, powerful and ended notes with a strong vibrato.

Odette responded with a high pitched operatic voice; "Let me fly with you my love. Into the stars we'll spread our wings."

"Holy moon god," Miya scratched her head. "Why is there a random song number?"

"Do humans really do this?" Rafaela asked.

"I'm pretty sure he normal ones don't."

"I just hope this doesn't end into heartbreak," Rafaela remarked candidly as the duet filled the entire castle. "They practically met just less than a month ago."

Miya shrugged in response. "Well, we never know. Estes and I broke up like five times over the last ten years. Afterwards we'll just go back to the each other anyway."

"Go back to each other…" Rafaela muttered in a low voice.

Odette and Lancelot captivated the audience as they sang in perfect harmony and danced - leaping and spinning around. The choir and orchestra accompanied the music. The new princess proceeded to tell the recent events through poem and announced that their love story has adapted in a full blown operatic musical; a surprise treat for the audience that night as the beginning of the post-coronation party. Of course, the main characters were to be played by the pair.

Afterwards, the feast commenced and both Rafaela and Miya helped themselves tasting human food. Not bad, the elf thought. It was interesting how the angel never tried any meat but preferred vegetables, fruits and cakes. The two women parted afterwards, with Rafaela insisting to check on some drunken guests hurting themselves, while Miya chose to chat with Lesley who introduced her adopted brother Harley.

Miya stared at a mirror in the castle hall. She never dressed up pretty in her life- even Rafaela called her beautiful. The elf was amazed how Lancelot transformed her look; hair down, light blue dress, and a silver tiara as an accent. The man even did her makeup; pink lips, purple eye shadow and some dark eye-liners. What would Estes say if he saw this?

She certainly attracted some people, asking her about where she came from. Miya answered what she could, hoping to make people learn about the cultures of her people. Some were interested way beyond her race, and she had to politely turn them down. If only she could proudly reveal that the Elven king was her lover.

A man with a huge, voluminous pony-tail was walking in the corridors. Miya recognized him despite the western clothing and decided to sneak and surprise him. Despite her best efforts, Zilong turned to face Miya and bowed. "Ni hao! Ni hao ma?"

"What the actual f-"

"Sorry, didn't recognize you at first. You… actually look good." Zilong stroked his chin. "You don't look like you're going for a hunt."

"Thanks, but what was that?"

"People ask too much. I speak an eastern language and they shut up- well, except those who can understand it." He shrugged.

They were interrupted by a running Odette, giving Zilong an excuse to loiter again. "Miya!" The girl ran towards her and grabbed her hands. "I wanna dance with you!"

"Alright!" Miya smiled back.

Odette was a very tall girl, even as tall as Estes. Miya had to look up to her as they dance. Despite having little idea how human dances work - even how elves dance- the princess was able to lead Miya in a well-coordinated and graceful waltz. They already knew the basics about each other, but they had little time to talk. "We should get to know each other more. After all, I'm a princess and you're an ambassador."

"I agree. You know as a starter, I'd like you to know your voice is beautiful and you are the best dancer I have ever seen in my life," Miya meant every word.

Odette flushed with the complement, "Oh thank you Miya." The topics they talked ranged from the food, the everyone's clothing, the differences between cultures, and eventually delving into politics. The girl, despite her age, was quite knowledgeable and had the gift of diplomacy. "Does King Estes have a queen?"

The question left Miya off-guard. It's easy to say the truth- that there was no queen, but the thought of more questions speculating the king's love life made Miya anxious. It was better just to state the facts to a trusted person; "No, the truth is… we're actually together," the elf whispered.

Odette giggled and her cheeks blushed. "You have to tell me your love story! I might get inspired again to write a new song." The princess twirled her around. "Oh, this makes me so happy. I can't believe I'm going to be friends with none other but the future Queen of the Elves."

"Queen?" Miya felt her blood drain from her face. She let out a half-hearted laugh, failing to calm herself. "Yes, a queen…" Somehow, her skin was more sensitive to the sweat trickling down her brow and the cold evening air. Odette noticed and smiled awkwardly. The princess then changed topic quickly, shifting to something far from politics. Miya answered mechanically, prolonging the conversation and easing herself. However, the word etched in her mind - queen. It echoed inside her, even as she left the dance in a daze, even when she curled on her bed alone and unable to sleep.

Lancelot sipped his wine quietly, looking blankly ahead. "From what I gathered, a witness saw Gossen walking away from the Cranberry castle."

"Could provide more clues if they check the place." Zilong replied quietly. There were people passing by and greeting Lancelot, not knowing that he was engaged in a sensitive conversation.

The knight sighed, "Gossen actually burned the place down to the ground." He rotated his wine glass, "walked away with a single picture frame in his hand."

"Who?" Zilong hoped for a clearer answer.

Lancelot shrugged, "The witnesses say it was a painting of a woman. Possibly his mother." He sighed. "Shame, the king was willing to pardon Gossen but I guess he needed to find his way."

Somehow, Zilong was hoping Gossen would appear in the celebration, speak to the king and earn a place in the Felician society. Wherever the young man was that moment, Zilong hoped he'd find a better way of living. He walked around the castle, watching for any suspicious activity. A lot of people tried to chat with him, many of them women who seem to be interested in more than a dance. He looked exotic, he got it, but he couldn't afford distractions. At the back of his mind, events like these were the perfect opportunity for assassinations. Tigreal's enemies would still be around-

Rafaela was alone sitting on a fountain's structure. Why? The fountain's stone was cracked and looked worse closer, the lack of nearby lightning concealing its deteriorated state. Most of the people in the gardens were chatting and enjoying the jesters performing on the patios. Rafaela just watched them in her hidden spot. "Looking for fish to heal?" He said as a tease as he approached her.

"No, there is no fish here. There used to be though." She replied, staring blankly on the castle. "Do you remember the story about the plague that Tigreal mentioned? The reason for the plague was the mines poisoning the river. I left my spiritual form and appeared to the king to tell him that."

Zilong leaned on the fountain. "What happened? I'm always interested about the stories you can tell. You know, you being around for a while."

Rafaela swung her feet as she continued, "I have a lot to tell, but sometimes I don't remember them unless there's a memory trigger. This place allowed me to look back." She smiled slightly at him. "After the mine was closed, the illness was slowly cured and people celebrated. The king invited me to join their feast, but I thanked him but declined the offer. I thought an angel like me shouldn't indulge in human festivities." Rafaela tapped her seat. "I sat right here in this spot, watching people dance, sing and laugh. I was invisible."

"You never tried to join them?"

"I had no desire to during that time. However it was fascinating; this fountain lasted and stood the test of time. Everyone in that feast, including the original castle, has already perished. In a thousand years that passed, I realized that… I regretted not taking the chance," her eyes focused on her feet, shoulders hunched and lips tightly closed.

"Then you have another chance now." Zilong said to Rafaela. There was no way others wouldn't take notice of her. She was beautiful in her white dress, the golden jewelry on her ears drawing attention to her face. His eyes lingered on her face, "People would love you, I'm sure of it. You're kind, wise and-"

"Boring," Rafaela finished the sentence.

"Boring? Why did you say that? That's not true!" Zilong frowned. "Who told you that?" He asked, his voice louder than normal.

"Nobody. I guess… there is nothing to talk about. I have no family, no childhood, no education, no ambitions and things that humans normally have. I'm just a 'nice girl', as they would describe. I cannot tell them I am an angel." Rafaela looked down, not meeting Zilong's eyes and began reaching for her footwear.

"What are you doing?"

"I'm done for tonight." Rafaela unbuckled the strap of her sandals. It wasn't obvious under the long skirt but the shoes had high, pointed heels that looked like the tip of a spear. Horrifying to imagine what it felt to wear them. After kicking them out of her feet, Rafaela stretched her tiny toes. What followed next was her hair- pins held up layers of braids up like a bun- one by one, she pulled them out in silence.

Zilong didn't speak a word when Rafaela took off the jewelry and set them on the fountain. So many layers peeled that weighed her down - they just weren't a part of her. Rafaela just seemed tired and disappointed. She sighed and hopped down to the grass, stretched and used her hands to comb her hair down. Using the back of her hand she wiped her lips, leaving a dark red smudge on her cheek.

"There's more paint," Zilong brushed his own cheek to show Rafaela the spot. She imitated him but failed to clean everything. He shook his head and she huffed in frustration.

"Then help me with it," Rafaela said as she closed their distance and brought her face closer to his.

"Fine." Zilong avoided eye contact as he reached out and touched Rafaela's chin, using his thumb to wipe the lipstick. The make-up left a trail towards her jaw and Zilong gently tilted her head for a better view. Up close you cannot say that she was the same angel that people witnessed in battle. When she fought, her eyes and her body glowed in a golden light. A divine being. In this mortal form, her eyes were blue like the morning sky, and her face marked with some freckles and her hair the color of hay - just like a human. "Done."

"Thanks…" Rafaela looked down and picked up her sandals. "I guess I have to-" Instead of walking away she placed her footwear on the fountain along with the jewelry. "I told before that I had regrets," she looked at him significantly. "We won't have another night like this again wouldn't we?" He didn't answer as Rafaela walked towards him and placed one hand on his shoulder and the other one took his hand. "Let's dance."

"Why?" Zilong gazed at her eyes, trying to read what was in her mind, waiting for her to back out any moment and leave him. Rafaela didn't. The woman placed his hand to her waist; the bare skin exposed by her backless dress was under his fingers. She didn't mind; instead, she brought their bodies closer together.

"Why? There are only two answers; you want to dance with me, or you don't want to dance with me. Which is it?" Rafaela teased and sealed the start of the dance by lifting both of their hands to the right position. He let her - whatever made her happy. Afterwards, she hummed the melody of the song played by the orchestra.

Dancing was just really simple, Zilong thought. He watched Tigreal and Lancelot dance with Rafaela earlier. It was just a three-beat rhythm, where usually the male partner would lead. It never really appealed to him but he understood; it was all about trust. Wherever he moved, Rafaela just followed, enjoying every twirl. She laughed when he picked her up and spun her around. Even as she was barefoot on the grass, she knew he wouldn't step on his feet. Despite the difference of their strength and size, there was balance- none of them would be left behind, none of them would fall. Rafaela trusted him and it meant everything.

"Does it bother you Zilong, that you're going to live a long, long time?" She asked after a long silence. "Aren't you afraid to be alone?"

Zilong gazed at her, noticing sadness. "I never really thought of it yet. I guess I haven't lived long enough yet." He kept his tone neutral, "How about you?"

"I wasn't alone before. Now I am." She spoke in a quiet voice, her brow furrowed." I'm sorry, I didn't mean to-"

"Hey don't worry. I'm going to be around for a long time don't I?" Zilong replied, reassuring her. "If you want to, we can find more beings like us- the gods and the immortals. They might be interesting company."

"Maybe… but once my purpose is fulfilled. I might go back to Heaven. A hundred, a thousand years will pass and everyone here in this castle will be long gone. I'll just be alone again."

"Then I will still be here, I don't think I'll go anywhere. I'll wait for you, even if you have forgotten about me," he became more aware of his heartbeat, perhaps the dance was more tiring than he expected.

Rafaela shook her head. "I will never forget you. I promise that." She smiled at him and the music stopped. The woman looked up and stared directly in the eyes; "Thank you for listening. "I… want you to know you can talk to me too. About anything. I want to learn about you more, get to know you better- I mean, who you truly are." Zilong looked away, not wanting his face to betray his emotions. She knew. "You can trust me, I promise. We're friends, right?"

He nodded and smiled, "yes we are."

"I guess this is enough for the night. Good night, Zilong. Thank you." He forgot how to breath as Rafaela used his shoulders as leverage and her weight shifted forward. She tiptoed, lifting her face to get closer to his; he bend down as she wrapped her arms around his neck. Zilong closed his eyes and waited until soft lips gently touched his cheek.

"Good night," he answered when he was sure she was too far to hear.

Zilong thought it was amusing- they entered through a boat, and they would leave the same way. Odette, Lancelot, Tigreal and Natalia escorted them to the Tigris river before dawn. The fastest way to the Askati forest was the river and the king has generously provided them with a well-stocked boat and more… diamonds. Zilong sighed.

As dawn neared, there wasn't more time for Odette. The girl shook his hand, but then rushed and kissed the cheeks of Rafaela and Miya. The women laughed and cried with the farewell, embracing each other tightly. "I'm going to miss you! I love you all so much!" Odette said as she sobbed. In their few weeks of stay, it was amazing how much bond was formed between them. Zilong tilted his head as Lancelot joined and cried, and flung himself towards the pile, joining their girly group hug afterwards. Such a peculiar but interesting gentleman.

"Remember you have my thanks, and my support Sir Zilong," Tigreal said as they shook hands. "Oh come on! Let me have a hug too!" The king crushed him under his huge arms and Zilong could barely breath. By the grace of the gods, he would never have to fight this man. He was thankful Natalia didn't talk about how Zilong beat her. Or rather, the female assassin can now blackmail him if she wanted to.

Lancelot kissed Rafaela's and Miya's cheeks, "Mademoiselle Miya, it's such an honor to meet all of you. Oh Rafaela, you were such a blessing." After saying farewell to the ladies, Lancelot approached Zilong and put his hands on his shoulders. "Monsieur Zilong, my savior, my friend, please allow me to kiss you goodbye," the knight pleaded.

"Fine," Zilong replied nonchalantly. It would be odd, but he would like to respect the culture of these people-

Suddenly, Lancelot's hands had grasped his face and the knight's lips seized his. Zilong's head spun and his cheeks felt like they were on fire. Somehow his body just froze as Lancelot prolonged the kiss. Zilong's senses heightened, hearing the screaming of women close to the two of them. He broke away breathless. "What was that!?"

"I asked and you said it was okay," Lancelot pouted before breaking into a grin. "I'll never forget that kiss Zilong, it was amazing. Thank you." Zilong covered his face as the women giggled and Tigreal let out a loud, hearty laugh. He couldn't bear to look at them. Not after this. This was his- no it can't be. Dammit. Why did heaven allowed this? Lancelot tilted his head, "why are you so embarrassed, don't tell me this is your first kiss?"

"Well, it probably is." Rafaela replied. "He was summoned to this world just very recently." The angel tried to hold back her laughter. Everyone said, "oooh."

"Haha! Gods, I never knew Lancelot's sword… swings both ways." Miya laughed shamelessly like a crazy witch. "This is the best ever! Zilong's first kiss will be written in Elven history! Carved in stone."

Odette kept on squealing and jumping up and down. "Oh Lancelot, I'm going to write about this when I get home! I'm so inspired! Or maybe paint it?"

"Can't wait to see whatever you do , my darling" Lancelot answered in silky voice. Zilong had a feeling all of these were planned by the pair. No, Lancelot wouldn't be smart enough to plan. This was Odette's idea. "Oh come on Zilong, I'm sure you'll get more kisses. From someone you really, really like." Lancelot winked at him.

Zilong bowed quickly and turned around, avoiding eye contact with anyone. It would be best not to return in this land again. Probably not in a hundred years. "Goodbye," he said quietly.

"Oh Zilong, don't worry. This will be kept a secret, I promise." Rafaela gently took his arm and pulled him towards the boat.

"I make no promises." Miya said in a sing-song voice as she hopped on the vessel.

The noise of goodbyes eventually faded, and all was left was the sound of the river. Zilong looked back to see the kingdom disappear in the horizon.

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I am grateful for all the support receive that kept me going the past months. There nothing more rewarding for a writer to read how much people liked reading my creation. Thank you for all the thoughtful comments you spent time on writing.

I decided to take a one month hiatus in writing ML Chronicles and making comics to refresh my mind. The next arc will resume on June.

I will still continue conditionally. The next arc's title is "Gods, Angels and Demons." It's a very serious arc and much darker than Swan Princess.

Thank you again. I'll thank you all personally through PM or through the next author's note. See you again! Please comment or review!