Hello everyone! How're you all? Long time, no see, huh? Actually, I was feeling so lazy to update this story but it had to be updated. (Why not? How can I miss it? Never!) Besides, my exams were also going on. Since they're finished, I'm updating this :D
Thanks a lot to ILoveMySweetIndia, sakurasato56, Cutetyhil, Golden Glow of Amber, MyWritingFlowsLikePeeing, Jyotsna, Stark02, Sohana Sarkar, ASlaveToWords and Emerald Vivienne Ramira Mayvin for reviewing the last chapter. Special thanks to Chiya (ILoveMySweetIndia) for leaving so many reviews and fulfilling my first milennium (Yayy!). I love you so much, Chiya *Kisses*
Jyotsna: Sorry for the late update, dear. And a very very very...belated happy new year. Thank you so much for the review though. You can read my other stories "A week of love" and "Tainted in pink and red" too if you want :P
Besides, this chapter is filled with only love and love (Why not? After all, this is February, a month of love, isn't it?) Some angst could be seen too but not that much. I was just reading the old chapters of Kingdom and realized how badly I was missing those times *Sniffs*.
Dedicated to: My sweet, cute, fluffy, adorable sister Chiya aka ILoveMySweetIndia. Love this angel to no end *Hugs and cuddles with her*
The jungle was a bit far from the capital of Russia. That's why, the temperature below zero couldn't have affected its environment. Still, the surface of the forest was warm as it was well-acquainted with the sunshine. The rays were falling diagonally on the fresh green leaves, highlighting their verdant exquisiteness. The dense, leafy branches were trying to cover the woods like an umbrella but the sunshine wasn't someone to give up easily. Birds were cooing on the twigs, rabbits and squirrels were hopping for fruits beneath them and the serene flock of deer, having thick coats of fur, were calmly grazing the soft, juicy grass. Silent, dim-could a human being ever live there despite longing much? Yet, there was one.
The birds quitted singing and rushed inside their nests, rabbits and squirrels also ran into the tree-holes. The stags and does hid behind the bushes as they all heard the sound of wheels sliding. Following the sudden reverberation which broke the tranquility of the woods, a pair of roofed, curtained chariots dashed, blowing the red, crunched leaves of the maple trees away. In the first vehicle, the slate-haired guy looked at his newly wedded bride who was peacefully sleeping, placing her head on his shoulder. He didn't move, not breaking her siesta. She needed it since she was so exhausted. In another, the redhead and the dual-haired Spaniard were gossiping. The Russian wasn't interested to talk much but he was listening to his wife.
The chariots stopped in front of a straw cabin which was surrounded by bamboo fences from all the four directions. Wild vines were entangling the hurdles, possessing magenta and violet florets. Bees and little insects were flying around them. The hut was neat, encircled with so many anonymous trees growing different kinds of fruits. Pigeons were nibbling, strolling gently on the grassy lawn. Kai looked at his wife and pushed his fingers through her locks which caused her to yawn and stir a bit. Slowly, she opened her eyes and lifted her head from the shoulder of her husband. Facing him, she let out an embarrassed smile and discovered that the chariot was not moving.
"Kai?" Tala asked, "Why have we stopped here?"
"Cannot you recognize this hut?" The phoenix-prince pointed at the straw-made cabin. The redhead frowned, so did his Spanish wife. Within only two seconds, his face glowed as he almost jumped from the four-wheeler. How could he forget the place?
"Lady Vetrova's place!" Tala exclaimed.
"Hn." Both the couples got down along with the three remaining brothers, Bryan, Spencer and Ian. The guardians had already left for the castle because they would be preparing for welcoming the new grooms and brides there. Only the Russian princes and two brides waited there because the phoenix-prince was intending to seek the blessing of one of his dearest, most respected and most favorite mentors. Hilary questioningly looked at her husband. Julia couldn't remain silent like her curiosity, asking the wolf-prince, "My lord, who is lady Vetrova?"
"She was our teacher when we were in the learning center," He replied, "In fact, she has a special place in all our hearts."
"Specially in Kai's," Spencer rotated his eyes at the phoenix-prince, "You know, sister-in-law Hilary, Kai used to miss aunt Apraxia a lot when he was in learning center. Then, lady Vetrova used to come to him and remove the loneliness he felt. Not only that, the secrets which he didn't share with us were known to her. Bryan, can you remember?"
"Oh yes!" The lavender-haired prince shook his head, "One day…"
Before the falcon-prince could speak it out, Kai clutched one of his hands tightly. Pondering, Bryan saw his cousin glaring at him dangerously which meant 'Don't-dare-utter-one-more-word'. Bryan became silent after a gulp. God, sometimes, the dual-haired Russian could be so scary!
"One day?" Hilary frowned, "What happened?"
"Nothing," Spencer negated, understanding that Kai didn't want it to be revealed, "Let's go inside, sister-in-law. Lady Vetrova will be so happy by seeing you both here."
"Sure." The brunette nodded, not trying to enhance the things. All the guys and the brides stepped in. Kai and Hilary were in front of them. Going to the door of the cabin, the phoenix-prince gently knocked it. After a few seconds, it went open, revealing a sky blue-haired lady with magenta-ruby orbs, dressed in a long, cream-colored sarafan and wooden jewelries. Though she was happy seeing her favorite disciple at her door, she couldn't express it as her delight was suppressed by the sight of the chocolate-haired bride, smiling at her. She froze right there, losing the ability to utter a single word. Even a beam couldn't be seen all over her face.
"Greetings, my lady." All the princes bowed towards her as Tala asked, "How're you?"
"Greetings, princes of Russia," Somehow, she responded, "I'm fine. You?"
"We're also fine, just returned from Japan," Bryan pointed at Hilary and Julia, "With the brides of Kai and Tala."
"Accept my greetings, my lady," Both the girls humbly bent their backs as the brunette spoke, "Feeling so lucky and proud to meet you."
"Stay blessed, girls," The affectionate hands of the lady touched their heads, "May your lives be filled with glow and glory."
"For caring for my husband and brothers-in-law when they needed the love of a mother," Julia said, "I'm much grateful to you."
"Pray for us, honorable lady," Hilary spoke, "May we be inspired by you always, thus taking care of our husbands and family."
'I wish…I could pray for you, sweetheart….' Vetrova's eyes glossed with tears as she heard the brunette, 'You're such a sweet angel who deserves all the happiness of this world. But what to do, dear? Fate is ruthless sometimes. The incident which you are taking as your good fortune won't take much time to turn into your nightmare. I can only pray to the Almighty for you so that He gives you the courage, determination and patience to handle the dangerous situations properly. Be victorious always, my girl.'
"My lady, why are you here?" Julia offered, "Please, come with us to the palace. If you accompany and welcome us, we will feel much happy."
"Thank you so much for asking me, princess," The female mentor feebly smiled, "But pardon me, I cannot go to the castle right now. I'll go there in the afternoon. For welcoming you, her Highness of Natalia and her sisters must be waiting."
"If you came, it would be better." Ian grouched.
"No problem," Tala shook his head, "We'll be waiting for you in the afternoon. See you."
"See you, my children," Vetrova waved a hand, "Thanks a lot for glorifying my hone with your presence, once again."
Giving a casual beam, the royal princes and the brides rode the chariots as they left from the cabin. Turning her head, Hilary could see the teary eyes of the female teacher. She couldn't understand why she was crying. Something was surely suspicious. However, she didn't even feel to ask this thing to her husband, thinking that it would only increase tensions and troubles for him. The forest scenery was beautiful by both sides of her. Flocks of deer, birds, rabbits and butterflies were playing around them, bathing in the sunshine, grazing, nibbling and chasing one another but Hilary, unknowingly, couldn't pay much attention to them though nature, animals and birds were always her favorite.
Nevertheless, when the forest ended, it took away her worries with it too. The broad roads of Russia came, the chocolate-haired girl shivered in the abrupt chilly waves. Hiwatarian realized it. That's why, picking up a blue woolen shawl from the seat, he wrapped it over the shoulders of his wife. She blushed and murmured a thanks to the prince. Tala helped Julia cover herself with a warm veil as the dual-haired girl only smiled at him. As the Russian people saw the royal chariots heading towards the castle, they left all their jobs and stood in two separate rows by the sides of the highway, colliding with one another to have the glimpse of the noble couples. Guards tried to stop them though the task was hard. Women in long sarafans started sprinkling rose petals at the princes and their brides. Jubilations buzzed and resonated everywhere:
"Hail prince Kai Hiwatari and princess Hilary Tachibana Hiwatari!"
"Hail prince Kai Hiwatari and princess Hilary Tachibana Hiwatari!"
"Hail prince Tala Valkov and princess Julia Fernandez Valkov!"
"Hail prince Tala Valkov and princess Julia Fernandez Valkov!"
Decorate the welcoming platters,
Play the trumpets, don't save anything for later,
The good fortune has finally stepped in our kingdom,
Now, there'll be only happiness, no sorrow and boredom.
"Natalia! Vera! Sasha! Irina!" The empress of Russia stood up from her throne in her room, "Looks like our children and the brides have arrived. Go, get everything and welcome them in the castle!"
The chariots halted in front of the royal, gypsum-built castle of Russia. All the guards tapped the ground with their spears and crouched before the princes to show them honor. The beats of the drums increased, tunes from the flute spread all over the icy country. Everyone was loudly jubilating by the names of the newly wedded princes and their wives. Maids were showering flowers from the different levels of the palace. Kai and Tala got down before their soulmates, after Bryan, Ian and Spencer had landed. Both the redhead and the dual-haired Russians stretched their palms towards the twin-haired Latina and the brunette. Flushing, the girls kept their hands on theirs and with their help, they finally kept their feet on the soil of Russia.
Following it, the rainbows descended on the fountains. Birds tweeted happily. Bumblebees and butterflies hovered around the flowers which had bloomed just then in the naked trees, along with the emerald leaves. The temperature of the air increased, adding the warmth of Japan to the coldness of Russia. The sun shone brighter than always this time in the sky. The thick sheet of the dense fog was no more, severed by the sunrays. All the subjects of the icy kingdom noticed the sudden but positive, comfortable changes in their weather. In blissful vibes, they thanked their new brides. The regal couples walked across the red velvet carpet with golden fringes and ascended the marble stairs.
Look at the beautiful brides,
They're Russia's beauty and pride,
With blushing footsteps, when they enter the castle,
Their red-tinted toes just remove all the hassles
Of our daily life. Like the sun and the moon,
they're sunshine and moonshine, giving us happiness soon….
Queen Apraxia was standing there with a silver platter in her hands, filled with flower petals, a brass kettle of steams, a metal staff and a small goblet of cherry juice. Beside her, there was Natalia with the same stuffs. Princess Sasha, princess Vera and princess Irina were standing right by them with more flowers. Seeing the brides, they sprinkled the roses at them. When the brides bowed towards them, Apraxia held the kettle before them according to a ritual so that the evil eye could never touch them in their lives. They drank from the cherry juice at first. Then, the grooms shared the drinks, putting their lips at the same spaces blessed by the lips of their wives. All the four people blushed as the female guardians silently giggled.
The entry for the grooms and brides was majestic, covered with soft blue and red velvet runners, bedecked with golden and silver fringes at each side. For each step of all the feet, platters of white and red rose-petals were posed in the distance of every fifteen centimeters. Kai tightly held Hilary's hand; her fingers also were entwined around his. Tala and Julia's palms collided with each other and got locked in the same process. The women bent their bashful eyes as the orbs of their husbands were outstretched, proud of their soulmates. Trampling the petals as they bloomed like a full flower beneath the angelic feet of the couples, the princes and their brides entered. Guards again knelt down on the ground in reverence, hitting the floor with the lances. Trumpets deafened everyone; drums got engaged in a fierce competition with them.
Here they come, the revered goddesses of Russia,
Coming with love and fortune, they'll shower Ambrosia.
Standing beside the phoenix-prince and wolf-prince,
From the kingdom, they'll remove all the sadness and sins.
The mothers led the couples to a large chamber which was for only the family meetings of Hiwatari clan. The beautiful brides sat on the lenient velvet couches, propping their backs comfortably against the cushions. The grooms made them comfortable on their seats, facing their wives. The maids started fanning them with peacock-feather fans, standing behind them. When the mothers took their position at the center, both the couple stood up and bowed again.
"Greetings, my dear children," Apraxia pronounced, "I hope the journey was fine, safe and comfortable for all of you. Allow me to introduce myself, I am Apraxia Hiwatari, the empress of Russia, the wife of late-prince Susumu Hiwatari, the daughter-in-law of late emperor Voltaire Hiwatari and the mother of Kai Hiwatari, the current crown-prince of Russia. It is really nice to meet you, princess Hilary Tachibana Hiwatari and princess Julia Fernandez Valkov."
"It's my pleasure, mother," The brunette stood up, "Pardon me but we would like to be called only by our names. We are younger than you, it will be better and more comfortable."
"That's so gentle of you, Hilary," Beaming, Apraxia patted the head of her daughter-in-law, "Stay blessed, my child."
Kai smirked at his wife. Really, she was the best life-partner for him and the best queen for Russia too. Once again, he understood that he had made no mistake by choosing Hilary as his soulmate.
"Aww…don't forget to praise Julia too," Natalia took the side of her daughter-in-law, squeezing her shoulders, "For being Tala's wife, one needs to sacrifice a lot. I'm proud of Julia because she's been ready to do it."
The heart of the Spaniard trembled as she gave a worried look at her husband. Quickly, the latter turned his stare from her, maybe as a hint, as a request to his wife not to tell his mother anything about the tormenting incidents that had happened back in Japan. Julia realized that Natalia said it lightheartedly, not aware of the actual truth and the vows that she'd made to her husband before their marriage. That's why, she simpered, trying to forget those painful memories and harsh truths she'd had to face. Why was she being so worried? This marriage didn't happen without both their consents. Specially, Julia herself had been eager. For attaining Tala, she could do everything. Was she tensed only because the beautiful dreams of her came true and she had to face the ugly reality now?
"Well, you all must be very tired now," Natalia said, "The bathhouse is ready with warm water. Have a bath, get changed, eat something and take rest. Before it, you won't be able to meet your partner."
"Aww…don't worry, brother," Natasha jokingly patted the back of the elder redhead, "Sunset happens faster in Russia, doesn't it?"
Tala gave a death glare to his sister but nobody cared, bursting out laughter. Natasha rolled her eyes, "If you keep killing me with your eyes, I won't give you your gift, hnn!"
"Gift?" Tala's stares softened.
"Yep!" Natasha jumped and rushed out. Within a while, she returned with two large trays held in the hands of two maids, covered with red silk fabrics. As she lifted one of them, it revealed a bottle-green, soft, woolen blanket where a snowy white wolf and a golden Pegasus were painted. The flying mare was hovering above, releasing thunderbolts and the wolf was looking at it from the ground, with an icy hue around it. Tala and Julia stared at each other. He was bearing that icy waves around himself, she was fierce like lightning. Natasha had surely depicted their relationship perfectly. The Spaniard veered her emeralds gently as her husband found it attractive. Ah…why was that girl so special?
The second platter disclosed the sight of a portrait. Another Tatar, having two-toned hair. His amethyst pools were twinkling in pride and the joys of victory. His right hand was elevating a longsword. Towards it, a majestic garnet phoenix was heading, spreading its plumose wings that were covering the entire sky. From her golden beak, flames were being showered on the battleground. Not so far from him, a chocolate-haired girl was standing with flushed face. Though she was blushing, the smile clinging to her rubicund lips surely belonged to the pleasure of the triumph of her love. A gold-made cornet was enclosed in her hands on a golden platter, with some petals of roses. The velvety feathers of the vermilion bird were blowing in the flurries. People around them were jubilating, stretching their fists up.
Kai and Hilary became speechless. This portrait was really so magical that they forgot to stare at each other at its immense loveliness.
'It's really beautiful….' Hilary spoke, 'Thank you so much, Natasha.'
"You're most welcome, sister-in-law," Natasha's eyes danced, "Though we have to admit that the gift of brother Tala and sister-in-law Julia is better because…"
"Natasha!" Tala gave her a nasty look, clenching his teeth.
"Hahaha…" Covering her mouth and giggling, the cheerful princess of Russia fled away as the guardians laughed again at the naughtiness of their daughter. After it, Natalia opened her mouth, "Since you have had such a long journey, I think you all should need some rest now. Though Julia is my daughter-in-law, Hilary, I want you to stay in my room for the rest of the day, dear."
Hilary gave a questioning look at Kai and her mother-in-law. The phoenix-prince gave a silent nod as his mother spoke, "No problem, dear. Julia will stay with me. You go with your aunt-in-law."
"Thanks, mother." She whispered as the red-haired woman took her to her room. Hilary had a warm, relaxing bath and got changed in a light-colored, lightweight full-sleeved gown. The maids dried her hair as she wore some trivial jewelries. Soon, a few servants brought a large platter containing the traditional dishes of both Japan and Russia. As they placed it on the table, Natalia ordered them to leave the room. When they left, the scarlet sat beside her niece-in-law and started feeding her with her own hand. Hilary was touched by her aunt-in-law. She had heard that everyone in Russia feared her more than the queen. Even her mother-in-law herself remained scared of her sometimes.
"You know, my girl," Natalia pronounced, "When it was announced in Russia that you are going to be Kai's wife, the entire kingdom was very happy and excited-except one person. You know who she was?"
"No." The brunette shook her head.
"Well…" Tala's mother sighed, "It was me."
The brunette scrunched her brows in confusion. What was the reason behind the disagreement of Natalia?
"Don't feel upset, my child," The aunt-in-law placed a hand on her shoulder, "Actually, Japan was so small in comparison with Russia. That's why, I thought that Japan's glory would never match Russia's. However, I was wrong. Your kingdom is surely glorious and beautiful. Actually, I was proven wrong by your husband, my nephew, Kai. He sent me a letter which literally brought out my permission from my mouth for this wedding. Wait, let me show you that."
Getting up, Natalia opened a drawer of her closet, pulled out a scroll and gave it to the brunette. Unfolding it, the crown-princess of Russia started reading it:
"Dear aunt,
I hope you are fine by the grace of the Almighty. We both are also alright by His grace. However, I don't think that you are very pleased with me at present. I know that it was your dream to get me married to the princess whom you consider to come of a strong, enriched and well-trooped kingdom. I also know that Japan isn't one of those according to your perspective.
Aunt, you may think that I'm blabbering much but what to do, it's my right to support myself and my choices. An adult guy in Russia doesn't depend on the decisions of his parents and guardians regarding marital issues. But I'm writing this letter to you because the importance of your opinions about my life matters a lot to me.
Japan mayn't be as rich as Russia. In comparison with our kingdom, her size may be nothing but that of an ant. But the hearts of her people are broader than the mighty Pacific. They are so cordial. In some kingdoms, outsiders are seen as enemies. In some, they are considered to be guests. But I think this is one of the rarest countries where outsiders are treated like long-lost dear ones. Japanese people can be soft like the earth, cooling like the air, strong like the fire and life-saving like the water at the same time. A brave warrior of the kingdom has taught me this. May God keep him victorious always.
As for princess Tachibana, she's not only the daughter of the emperor, but also the offspring of all the people of her kingdom. I have seen a lot of flowers in my life, aunt, but never in my life have I met a floret who gives honey to the butterflies and poison to other pests. She's the one who took care of my Dranzer. She protected her like a worthy guardian though she hardly knew about the sacred spirit. Only with her help, I have been able to win her groom-choosing ceremony and retrieved Dranzer. The whole Japan loves her as much as Russia loves you, aunt.
I have sent you another box in which there is the portrait of the princess of Spain, aunt. Before a while, I saw her with Tala. They look kinda good with each other. If you find her to be suitable enough to be your daughter-in-law, don't forget to send a proposal letter to the king and the queen of Spain. Don't worry, it's my responsibility to make Tala agree. He can disobey everyone in the world except me.
I know that you are self-willed but I believe that you cannot be an oppressor ever. Please, accept this relation with your consent and blessings.
With much respect,
Your nephew,
Kai Hiwatari."
Hilary's ruby eyes started twinkling with tears as she read the letter. She always knew that she held a great place of respect in the heart of the phoenix-prince but once again, she got a proof. Once again, she felt much ashamed and indebted to her husband. Would she able to keep the honor of his trust and respect forever?
"That's why, my child," Natalia held her hands, "I have full faith on you. Really, you're the best bride of Hiwatari clan ever. I know that with your hands, success, glory and good fortune will arrive in this kingdom."
"Thank you so much for your confidence on me, aunt Natalia," Hilary bent her head as the aunt pulled her in a hug, "I promise, I'll try my best to protect it always."
In another chamber of the castle, another round golden platter was placed before the dual-haired Spaniard too. It contained all the favorite Spanish dishes of the Latina. With four or five kinds of sauces, pickles and salads, there were herb omelet, pastries, pudding, a full-roasted duck at the center and what not? Even the different-flavored juices in the crystal chalices were her favorite always. The aroma was surely mouthwatering but Julia was so flustered seeing them that she couldn't even speak. Raising her head, she looked at the face of queen Apraxia once confusedly when the latter only smirked at the Spanish princess.
"What happened, Julia?" Apraxia asked, "Is here any dish which you don't like to eat?"
"No no, not at all, aunt Apraxia," Julia shook her head, "In fact, all the foods are my favorite here. But…I'm wondering how you knew about my choices. May I know it?"
"You're our daughter-in-law, Julie," The queen softly smiled, "One of our most important family members. We all know the choices and preferences of all the persons in our family. Why should you get excluded? Specially, Tala told me about it. See, the Russian chefs cannot prepare the Spanish omelet as skillfully as you. But I hope you'll like it."
Giving a chuckle in embarrassment, no sooner had the girl started eating than Apraxia added, "I heard it too that you always feel hot. Since the temperature of Russia is lower than that of Japan now, I don't think you'll have any problem here. Even after it, if you feel uncomfortable, you can go to the northern room of the castle. Natalia has fixed it only for you. If you need anything else, you can tell me without any hesitation. Okay?"
Julia's heart got filled with respect and gratefulness for her husband. Tears streamed on her cheeks. She had always heard from her parents that the house of in-laws is no less tough than a trial by fire for a girl. When the behavior, the ambience was so friendly and light, she couldn't help feeling proud and fortunate. Standing up, she gave a quick hug to Apraxia as the latter hauled her in her affectionate embrace, remembering how tough and cruel it had been for her when she had come to her in-law's home first after her wedding. She promised herself that she would never let the next generation feel the same pain and face the same obstacles.
Days were shorter in Russia than any other kingdom in this world. Gossiping, talking and roaming around the castle, Hilary couldn't feel how the day ended and evening fell. She had to get fresh for the most important night of her life. Done with everything, she was sitting in the roofless circle in the garden, surrounded with eight marbles pillars. Silk curtains were swinging between each two pillars, colored in golden. The round canopy was quite large, decorated with staircases, a silver cradle, three-legged tables and so many necessary pieces of furniture. Besides, this time, floral festoons were hanging between the poles. Lamp-stands were attached to them, containing fragrant candles. The seat of the swing was made of pure velvet, with a pair of pillows and a bolster. A bouquet was in a crystal vase. The environment was tranquil and comfortable.
Nervously, Hilary sat on a stair, dressed in a cream-golden ballroom gown with quatrefoils which had a light-rose, peacock-feathered, long overcoat. The sleeves attached to them were fluffy and loose, reaching her wrists. A four-layered pearl chocker with a moonstone was hugging her neck and a rose garland was falling on her chest. Hair was unbound, bedecked with a crimson rosette, a semicircular moonstone tiara and a golden circlet. Pearl earrings swung in the air as the golden waistband embraced her midriff. Her upper face was covered under a gold, transparent georgette veil. She should have been hyped but before a while, she'd discovered that her period had begun. That's why, she was clueless-it was disturbing more than the abdominal pain. How would she tell that to Kai?
As she heard the familiar, bold footsteps of her husband, she gasped but didn't raise her eyes. Kai saw his blush-ridden bride, not ready to face him yet. Smirking, he made his way to her, sat beside her and lifted the veil from her face. Yet, the embarrassed ruby eyes were not agreeing to look at his. He himself had to do it, cupping her chin and raising it. The cheeks of the brunette were pink like the roses, it was evident in her orbs too as they encountered those love-stricken amethysts. The round moon rose in the sky, flashing brighter than the candles and showering its rays on the couple. Some moments passed like this, in silence.
"Hiromi…"
Hearing her Japanese name in his voice, the brunette was more surprised. Even the people of Nippon didn't use to call her by that name much often. How did he know it? Then again, it sounded melodious.
"My lord…" She whispered, "How did you know it? I didn't tell you…"
No word came from his mouth. Not like that he knew another name of her, he just tried to describe her generous beauty in Japanese term. How did it come true? Did he read her mind somehow? Or was it the sign of his deep love for her?
"Why're you so silent, Hiwatarian?" Hilary asked.
"I have brought a gift for you, Hilary."
Kai put out a diamond hairpin from the pocket of his loose pants. It had five tassels with decreasing length at each side and the top was decorated with a sapphire. In the moonlight and flashing candles, it was glowing like clear ocean water. The brunette blushed at the sight of the jewelry.
"If you have brought it," Hilary turned around, "Make me wear this."
"Hmm…." Kai thought for a while. Then, his fingers made their way to the veil attached to her hair. He gently unfolded it a bit and tucked the hairpin perfectly in her tresses. As he stroked her locks, she shivered in bliss. Holding her shoulders, he rotated her and caressed her cheeks. His fingertips enjoyed the red warmth of her face, she closed her eyes. Pulling her jaw close, he presented a few butterfly kisses there. His lips climbed to hers from her chin and got stuck there. Hilary felt as if she hadn't been in Russia. It was so hot, burning when his fingers deviated to the straps of her gown, undoing them. The brunette hungrily kissed him, totally forgetting her physical condition. Already, a fire was burning through her virgin body. Again, his mouth landed on her throat, kissing on the vocal cord, then neck dents, then collarbones…
"Ah!" The sharp pain felt in the lower stomach of the princess as she clutched it, creating a distance from the prince. Kai frowned and confusedly gawked at her, not understanding what the matter was. She was seeming to enjoy the moments, right? Hilary gave an apologetic look at her husband, still having the inflammation around her abdominal area and back. Kai read her looks for a while. Then guessing the entire matter, he grinned and stood up, bringing the cup of moon milk to her.
"I'm your husband now," He held her hand, "You don't need to hide everything from me."
"Pardon me, my lord…" Hilary lowered her eyes guiltily, "I…I thought…"
"It's okay," Kai laid a hand on her cheek, "You don't need to push yourself. Drink it, you'll feel better."
"But…" Hilary protested, "It was for you."
"So is for you," The phoenix-prince assured his wife, "Hilary, we're not different now. We have become one. What is mine is yours too."
Smiling and flushing, the girl took the cup and drank half of the milk. Putting his lips at the same place, Kai quenched the rest. Taking the palm of the brunette in his, he demanded, "Hilary, today, I have showed my patience. Promise me, you'll also be patient if such situation rises in our life."
"I promise you, my lord…" The chocolate-haired girl leaned her forehead against his hands, "If you stay by me forever, everything will be possible for me."
"Hilary…." Kai took a sharp breath, "I don't know whether I can stay with you forever or not. But...whenever you'll feel that you need me, just recall me. I'll be there for you, in one way or another."
The brunette sighed, yet, smiled to satisfy him. He didn't need to be by her side always. His love, support and care were enough for her. She had already got him in her heart, she didn't want anything more than this. Keeping the cup on the floor, the phoenix-prince gently lifted her by hooking his arms under her back and knees as the princess of Japan entwined her hands around his neck, gazing lovingly at his aventurine pools. He led her towards the large swing and placed her there. Lying beside her, he pulled her closer as she rested her head on his chest, listening to the most melodious beats in this world. She was safe, sound in his arms wrapped around her back and waist. In bliss, both of them closed their eyes, pulling the blanket over themselves.
Precap of the next chapter:
"Tala…" The chocolate-haired girl gulped, "What's happening here?"
"A…a battle…" The redhead panted, "A battle has been waged, sister-in-law. We weren't prepared for this!"
"What?" Hilary wasn't able to believe her ears, "A battle? Which kingdom did it?"
"C…" Tala clenched his teeth, "China!"
*Gulps* China attacked Russia? *Shivers* What will happen? Which country will lose it and which will win it? And even if our heroes win this one, what will be the outcome?
Okay, sorry to those who were waiting for TalaJul wedding night. It will be posted in 76th chapter :P
Do read and review. Pardon the grammatical and spelling errors. Dear Chiya, I hope you've liked this :P Once again, thank you thank you so much for being my 1000th reviewer.
Besides, I've published two new KaiHil stories "Tainted in pink and red" and "A week of love". Those who haven't read them, please read and review.
Take care and stay safe :D
-Misty ^_^