Fire and ice

by mollyandtiffany21gmail.com

Elf finds human girl, humans are forbidden in the elf world but he feels the need to help her. He cares and loves for her and as she grows he feels an attraction towards her.

I sat perched high on a bough of my favorite pine tree, when you came toddling towards my forest. You were younger than I was used to seeing especially since you were from the human village just over the ridge. Somehow, I felt drawn to you and I watched you intensely as you wandered closer and closer to the edge of the forbidden forest. I kept a lookout for the humans who might come to gather you back home. You were so little, and I was afraid for you being so alone out here. It was snowing, which meant that it was chilly and you didn't have much in the way of warm clothes. Tiny snowflakes drifted around me landing in my hair, on my lashes and on my pale skin but they didn't bother me. Elves aren't bothered by extremes of the weather. Hot nor cold never made me feel any type of way but it was different for humans, especially one as young as you, I knew you could easily freeze to death in a few hours.

Helping the humans is forbidden for elves, but as you drew closer to our territory of the forbidden forest, I knew I couldn't let you be caught by the Elvin guards. They often patrolled this area and I was certain if they found you wandering around without a guardian, they would hold you hostage and we would be at war. This was a gamble, getting caught interacting with humans could get me into a world of trouble but I just couldn't find it in my heart to leave you. I jumped down the tree, landing silently as the snowfall and waited at the forest's edge for you to make your way closer. You seemed upset about something, nothing I could do to help except lie in wait as you curiously trundled through the bushes. I stepped out from my hiding spot and you stopped in your tracks to stare at me. no words were said between us as we stood there in the forest, the silent snow drifting down around us.

I waved at you and smiled letting you know I was a friendly creature and you waved and smiled back. I scooted closer to you ever so slowly as to not scare you into screaming but you seemed welcomed by my friendly face.

"Hello little one, are you lost?" I whispered.

You looked behind yourself and pointed back towards your village not saying a word.

"Can I help you get home?" I asked reaching a hand out to you, and to my amazement you tucked your small hand into mine. You smelled of sweets, nothing I could recognize, and I pulled you into my arms. Your big brown eyes looked me up and down suspiciously but still you said nothing. Perhaps you were unable to speak yet, I was uncertain of your years. Humans age differently than elves, and I was no expert on the subject.

We stood there as you began to play with my long ears, from the wonder in your eyes I knew you had never seen elf ears. I waited patiently as you ran your stubby little fingers down my long silver hair. Once you satisfied your curiosity with me, you made another motion to your village and I assumed you were ready to go home.

I placed you closer to the edge if the forest, a thin line of aspen trees, and whispered bye as you trailed your way back home. I hid in the thickets to watch and see which humans were yours but non made themselves known. You weren't mine to be bothered by but yet I had a pained feeling you weren't alright.

So curious as I was, I sat in my tree every day since, watching you. I had to hide my foot prints from the high Elvin guards for if I were caught it would be a huge lashing from the king of my people. I would use a bramble branch to dust the tip of the snow whenever I climbed up and down the stalky trunk. I watched as the villagers seemed to cast you away as if you were some sort of mongrel. My heart ached for you. All you wanted was love and affection.

I sat there thinking how my own Abba and Alther had passed away from a famine that swept over my village many years ago. I wanted, no rather needed to help you. I made a promise to come back the next morning and steal you away from your village before any of your elders woke for their early morning chores.

I climbed from my perch feeling light hearted over my situation. I was having a debate with myself as I stepped inside my tiny cottage and looked around. how was I going to raise a child when I was barely of age myself? I would need to make arrangements in which I did of course. I worked all night long creating your own space. I took the old wood from the unwanted baby cradles and fastened it together creating a small bed that would allow you to grow.

It was tiering work which I prided myself in, but I was thrilled at having a little one to care for my own. I washed the dust from my hands and face, changed my filthy clothes and snuck out the door. With me I took my tiny dagger and my satchel of magic berries, Odus, the village wizard lent me. He was my confidant, someone I could trust all my secrets with, including this one. The King and the village elves use him for practically anything they needed help with.

I had to be sneaky to ensure that the Elvin guards wouldn't find me. the forest of Mulheim had a strict curfew in which was enforced by king Balnik.

Sneaking around the corners of every building and then flitting across the forest floor I ran to the borders where our two villages met and stopped. I had never stepped foot inside a human village before and a bit of fear swept over me. what if I was caught? I had never heard of elves being taken hostage since the peace treaty between our kind and theirs was signed but I was certain it could still happen.

Ever so softly I stepped across the border and then waited. No alarms rang out, no people hollering and rushing at me so I pursued on. I knew your people kept you in a barn on the edge of your village. Your kind seemed afraid of you almost as if you were a witch of some sort. You were an outcast but still they had a heart to keep you warm and fed inside their barn. Quietly looking around the corner from the barn, I looked for danger. No one was on guard so it was easy for me to reach you quickly. Quietly opening the door to the barn, I slipped in side and began to look for you.

The animals slept in their pens never noticing I was around. I peered around every corner stall hoping to find you but with every turn I took you were nowhere to be seen. I am certain this was the barn. There were no others like it in your village. I was about to lose hope of finding you today when I turned around the last stall and there you were, nestled in a nest of clean hay and blankets you slept so peacefully. I didn't want to wake you but I knew we had to leave soon, so I gently reached down and scooped you up. You stirred for a moment and noticed it was me and smiled wide. I couldn't help but smile back down at you as you lay cradled in my arms.

"I'm going to take you away now," I whispered and headed towards the door to the barn. I used my cloak and wrapped you up inside as you clung to my chest. the sun was beginning to peek through the trees and I knew the time was growing closer to your people awakening to do their chores. A wave of panic rushed over me as I flitted out the door and ran to the village's edge, hopping over bushes to safety.

I slide in the snow and turned around to watch as the villagers began to exit from their homes. I had to get you to my place quickly before the Elvin guards did their daily house checks. "Uh!" you shrilled from under my cloak and pointed a chubby finger out towards your home.

"No little one, you will come home with me. I have a bed and warm food for you," I responded uncertain if you could understand me. you seemed unbothered and understood what I was telling you, for you didn't make any new motions and lay quietly in my arms. I scurried over the snow lain ground. Elves were quick and light on their feet so I wasn't afraid of my foot prints being left in the snow. I peered around every corner of the houses between where I am and where mine was. The Elvin guards had begun to do their early house checks but lucky for me mine was on the end.

I slipped through my door and opened up my cloak. You stared up at me with a finger in your mouth and drool dripping down your finger. "Uck," I said placing you on the ground and quickly wiping off the drool. I watched as you began to wander around the house pointing and babbling at the objects on the walls and furniture sitting on the floor. You looked a bit too much like a human with your big brown eyes and human ears but I had a solution. Reaching inside my satchel I grabbed a handful of some magic berries Odus had given me and coaxed you over to me.

"Here little one, I have some delicious fruit for you," I said bending down to my knees to get to your level. You turned away from the small embers and while giggling you walked towards me. I held my hand out for you to take the berries which you did with such joy and popped them into your tiny mouth. I laughed as the juices began to run down your chin and you gave me a toothy berry filled smile. I watched as your small round ears grew tall and pointy and your eyes changed to a lighter brown. Now you looked like one of my people.

"Yay!" I said cheering, which you didn't understand, but you threw your hands up anyways and laughed. Grabbing a rag, I stepped closer to you and wiped your chin. You were so trusting. I wondered what happened to your family in your village, you reached a hand up and placed it gently on my cheek. I stared into your hazel eyes as if I was staring into your past. In my mind I could see the day you were born, and how after a couple of months of raising you, your Abba and Alther fell ill and passed. You lay crying, probably from hunger and a new family came and took you in. but just like your real parents, these ones passed away as well after a few years of raising you. People saw you as the cursed child and cast you away. They let you sleep in their barn and fed you table scraps for meals.

A tear rolled down my cheek as you stepped away from me brining me back to the present. I picked you up and pulled you into me in a hug, "You'll never have to worry about that here," I whispered to you. To show you understood you hugged me back tightly around my neck. Bringing me back to where we were, I heard a knock on the door. I gasped and set you down in front of the fire and ran to open the door. It was the Elvin Guards. Trying not to seem anxious I opened my door to them. "Good morning fellas," I said with a nervous chuckle.

"Morning Alluin, staying out of trouble this morning?" the first guard mumbled. The second one stepped into my living quarters and noticed you sitting in front of the smoldering embers. I gulped back the fear tightening up my chest.

"Who's this little one and why is she dressed in human clothing?" the second guard hollered from the other room causing the first guard and myself to sprint to the living room.

"Ah yes, I found her wandering the Mulheim forest and brought her in to my home until I can find her Abba and Alther. She is though in fact one hundred percent elf, look at her ears," I said pointing at them. You looked up at the two burly men a little skeptical but I knew we'd be alright.

"I see," said the first one. "Let's get onto the next one," the first guard motioned. "You best take that little one to the High Elvin to find her parent," he mentioned before slamming my door.

"That was a close one," I said kneeling down beside you. Your brown hair lay in a disarray around your round little face. You smiled up at me and pointed at my hair as if you read my mind. I chuckled and used my hands to flatten yours down. "What is your name little one?" I asked even though I knew you wouldn't answer. You wandered to my dining table and plucked an apple from the basket. I stood and walked slowly towards you thinking. I ran through a list of names in my head, the only ones I could think of were basic elf names. You aren't an elf; you are something special. "what if I call you Ina?" I said as you plopped yourself down on the ground and bit into the apple, juices began to run down you small chin. I laughed and watched as you crunched its juicy flesh making weird noises as you struggled to chew.

"Here little one, let me help you," I proceeded to reach out for the apple which you held tightly to your chest and yelled mine. "So, you can talk?" you struggled to sink your small teeth into the crunchy flesh of the apple grunting with frustration before you handed it to me for help. I walked over to the counter grabbing a cutting slab and a knife and began to slice it into thin pieces for you. You watched intently as I placed the apples vicariously onto a plate and handed it to you. "There," I said as you squealed with excitement and ran over to sit in front of the fire.

I stood and watched as you gobbled down the apples and then stretch out in front of the smoldering embers. I walked over and covered you with the large fur blanket I had laying over my bed. I poked and prodded the coals trying to create a small flicker of a flame to add logs to. I stepped outside my door to grab some wood when my neighbor walked over to me. this is what I needed, my nosy neighbor Eastridge poking her nose in my business. I quickly stacked up a few logs and turned to head inside when she came running over. "Hey stranger, what have you been up to?"

I turned around and quickly shut the door behind me. "Oh, hey Eastridge, how's it going?" I asked struggling to keep my grasp on the wood pile I held under my left arm.

"Not much. I wanted to see if you would like to join me for supper this evening, I'm making stew," she smiled cheerfully. She was always trying to get me to come to her house whether it was for meals or for helping her fix her appliances. She was gorgeous but I not the type to make me weak in the knees. She had blonde hair and grey eyes that twinkled whenever she smiled and she seemed to be doing that all the time. She always wore short dresses showing off her knees which didn't bother me, she just liked to do it for attention from the other male elves.

"Ah Eastridge," I began nervously hoping she wouldn't glance through my window. "Today wouldn't be a good day for me. I am extremely busy at the moment." I was wishing in my mind that she would leave it at that as she could be very persistent and nosey.

"Oh really? Doing what? You're always up to something aren't you?" she joked poking her head to look over my shoulder and through my door window. She was too short to see all the way through to the fireplace where Ina hopefully lay sleeping still.

"You know me, I always keep to myself," I responded slowly opening the door and backing into my home before she could say another word. I sighed in relief and turned around to find Ina where I had left her, peacefully at rest on the floor snuggled inside the warm fur blanket. I carefully stepped around her and delicately placed the logs on the smoldering embers. I a few ashes arose from the pit creating small clouds. In no time a fire began to arise from under the log and the house grew warm.

I sat in my chair beside the fire and watched as you slept. How could someone be so cruel to such a precious human being? I couldn't fathom creatures being so cruel to a helpless being. Then again, she didn't seem so helpless. She was able to show me her past and where she came from and how her family passed away. I stared on at her perfect little features.

I continued to sit unmoving in my chair until you woke, stirring inside the massive nest of a blanket. You stretched and yawned and smiled up at me, your little cheeks stretching out. Your chocolate brown hair was in a disarray, flying every which direction around your face. I smiled down at you as you stood up, wobbly, and walked over to me lifting your arms. "Uh!" you squealed.

I bent down out of my chair and scooped you up, laughing, into my arms. "Up, you mean," I mentioned. My heart felt complete in this moment. I had a little one all of my own. Even though the circumstances weren't right, we still had each other. "Are you hungry?" I asked setting you down on the floor. You responded by nodding your head vigorously and climbing up onto my tall chair. You struggled for a minute but eventually your hard work paid off and you clapped. "Tonight, I am going to take you to meet a good friend of mine who is helping me. you will love him," I said mostly to myself lost in thought. Walking to my cupboard I began to rummage through grabbing the ingredients I needed for supper. Would you like Elvin food? I suppose it's better than the scraps they had been feeding you in your village.

Elvin food was rather plain but nutritious. It's what helps us stay limber and light on our feet. I learned to cook for myself at a really young age which helped me survive on my own for all these years. I began carefully slicing the berries for the salad I was preparing glancing over at you every now and then to make sure you were in the same spot as a moment before. You'd smile up at me with a wide grin and laugh. It was an amazing feeling seeing you smile to wide at me.

I set the large mixing bowl on the table with a tiny plate for the each of us. I served up your plate and placed a napkin around your neck so that you wouldn't make a mess of yourself. Then I proceeded to serve up my plate drizzling a small amount of strawberry dressing over the lettuce and berries. I watched you as at first you made a disapproving face at the fork full of salad but after a tiny taste you enjoyed it and scarfed it down. I laughed at your cute little face covered in berry juices. I gave you some more and slowly began to eat mine. I never ate much as it was so I didn't mind giving you the left overs.

After supper, I cleaned you up, wiping the berry from your mouth causing you to giggle, and sent you off to play. "I suppose I should purchase some materials to make you the appropriate attire and toys to play with," I said softly as you toddled over to the fire and plopped down in front of it. I went right to scrubbing the dishes and drying them off to put them away. Glancing out the window it was close to nightfall meaning I would need to plan my sneaky escape to visit Odus without being seen or heard.

Walking over to the fire I knelt down beside you. You just stared into the flames unmoving as if your tiny human mind was conjuring up something I couldn't understand. Then without much thought and scaring the living daylights out of me, you reached for the flickering flame and stuck your whole hand into it. Without thinking, I scooped you up and rushed you to the sink and began to run your hand under cold water. I was feeling terrible because I should have been keeping a better eye on you, but yet you weren't crying. In fact, you were staring up at me with a look of confusion upon your little chubby face. I stared at you with confusion as well, then looked at your perfectly smooth hand. What was this sorcery? "So, fire doesn't bother you?" I whispered to myself as I placed you upon the counter and wiped your hand off. "I have so much to learn about you little one."

"Up!" your shrill voice rang as your arms shot up towards me. I picked you up and carried you over to the little area I had created for you and placed you on the bed. I was still in awe at what I had just witnessed. You began to jump on the little sack I had sewn together which made a make shift mattress for you, causing the duck feathers it was stuffed with to fly out. You laughed at this and tried to gather them as they drifted effortlessly through the air.

I laughed in spite of you. I wished my childhood had been this grand and even though it was not, the least I could do was make yours better for you. I loved you, but not in the sense of a couple, more like how a brother loves a sister. You had stopped bouncing then, and snuggled into the cushion of feathers and closed your eyes. I knew we had to leave soon to meet Odus, but I didn't want to wake you so I made a makeshift satchel for you to rest in tying it around my shoulder I placed you carefully inside. You continued to snooze, nestling closer to my hip. I smiled down at you, grabbed my cloak and headed out my door. I had to hurry before the guards came out to begin their nightly watch as anyone out past dark would be punished.

I slid around every corner of the buildings leading down the stairs to where Odus resided and rapt upon his door. Sliding open the peep hole, noticing it was me, he opened his door and I slid inside. "Treacherous times you come my dear boy. The Guards be out any time soon," he whispered leading his way with his cane to his living quarters.

I shut the door carefully behind me and followed him. "I had to see you and show you the child," I responded in a hurry.

"Ah yes, the human child. This too is dangerous; you are faced with tough decisions. The penalty is death and war with the humans if you are caught," he responded pulling some things from his shelves.

"That's why I need your help. This child is special," I continued as I adjusted the heavy satchel in which you slept in.

"Aren't all children special?" Odus asked, eyeing me from the corner of his room.

"Why yes, but this little one is much more than that. She has powers I have never seen before." I reached inside and carefully wrapped my hands up under your arms lifting you out of the satchel. You stretched, yawned and rubbed your eyes. I held you out to Odus who in awe came over to examine you.

"Funny looking fella," he mentioned looking around her as I placed her on the table. He poked and prodded her head and lifted up her arms to look at them. "I have not is close to a human since the war, she is very intriguing for sure. My magic berries have been working well I can see." He laughed and left you on the table to go back over to his ingredients which is began pouring into a bowl.

I grabbed you and held you on my hip, watching as Odus lay focused in on his conjuring. "What are you making?"

"you need enough berries to last you a lifetime, don't you?" he asked as if my question was dumb. I nodded in his response distracted by your tiny fingers tracing my hair. "This little one is your responsibility. Children are hard, especially humans and she will need special care if what you say about her being special is true." Odus never looked up from his mixing bowl as he ground powders together and then poured them into a tiny round mold then pouring a purple substance over that.

You watched him with curious eyes as if you were taking in the ingredients. "Will she know what you are making?" I asked him noticing your curiosity.

"Huh?" he motioned looking up from his work. "I am uncertain of that. Over time I suppose she shall learn what these berries are as you have no choice but to make sure she eats them every morning if you want her to stay elf. But she is young and curious so I'm sure she is just watching." I stood there thinking wondering if there were more to you that meets the eye and that was why your village disowned you. Did your Abba and Alther really pass away or was it the work of magic?

"Alright, here ye go," Odus said walking around his table with a purse full of the magic berries. "You will need to come back in a few months or so as I can only make so many. Be certain she eats them every morning," He urged.

"Yes Odus, thank you," I said with a bow. I stuffed you inside the side satchel, tossed my cloak on and headed for the door before Odus stopped me again.

"Now son, this child needs to be cared for. Caring for her will not be like how your Alther and Abba did. She looks to you now though it has only been a short while since you have brought her back to our village. I can clearly see the bond you have with this child. Teach her our ways and hope that maybe in the future it shall bring peace with our village and hers." He placed a thin boney hand on my shoulder and patted it.

"I understand Odus. Once again I don't know how I can ever repay you." I responded sincerely.

"I just want to see this child grow into a great being no matter which path she chooses when the time comes," he replied turning to walk back to his table. I took this as an opportunity to slide out his door. He was right, you do need all the care I can give and I swore to myself I would be sure to give it to you.

The years for you flew by in a blink of an eye. I took pride in the fact that I was able to watch you grow into a beautiful young woman. You still ate your berries that kept you an elf and never questioned it. I could see the effects it was beginning to have on your age as you began to look the same every year. I wasn't sure if you knew or just didn't care what they were for. Life for us was natural and normal. You became friends with Eastridge, creating a beautiful friendship between you two it was almost nauseating whenever you were at my home with her.

It was a peaceful evening in our home. You had invited Eastridge over for dinner which you were preparing. I felt like the only reason you did this once a week was so you could match us together when honestly, I just couldn't stand her. We sat at the table while you stood at the counter running back and forth between cook stove and cutting slab. I couldn't get away from her watching eyes as I tried not to make contact with them. "So, tell me again how the king allowed you, a single man, to take on the responsibility of an orphaned elf girl? Typically, they try to find a couple." I could hear the interest in your voice or the lack there of. The only reason Eastridge wanted to know this story was because she found me heroic. I could practically see your smile from across the room even though you faced away from me. I took a sip of my herbal tea and stared long and annoyingly into Eastridge's eyes before beginning.

"The King, sought to it that the child, or Ina, be with someone who she had made a bond with," I motioned to myself, "that being me he granted me custody to look after her and raise her," I responded.

"But didn't he throw a search party for her parents?" she continued. I watched as you went back over to the cook stove and grabbed the large heavy pot with a rag and carefully began to bring it over to the counter. Seeing that it was too heavy for you I swiftly got up and helped you without much thought. I could see from the corner of my eye that Eastridge found this gesture annoying as in the past if it were her, I would just allow her to struggle. She could be a bit dramatic at times.

"You did not need to do that," your soft voice said glancing in my direction as I set the pot on the counter and removed the lid. Dancing your way over next to me to grab some wooden bowls you had carved years ago as a young child, you began to pour the stew into each one. I smiled and walked back over to sit across from Eastridge who by now was glaring at me. I paid no attention to her and continued to sip my tea.

"Continue your story, Alluin." Eastridge said as you placed a bowl in front of each of us and then sat down at the third chair. I took my spoon into my hand and scooped up the stew still steaming and took a bite, closing my eyes to savor it.

"This is amazing my little one," I complimented. My eyes shot over to you and watched as your cheeks turned the faintest of pink.

"Don't be so modest, I've had better," Eastridge said rather rudely. I could only look at her with furrowed brows watching as even though it wasn't to her standards, she still took a rather large bite. "I believe yours is the best I ever had Alluin, no offense to you Ina." You just shook your head to respond that you weren't offended because you knew how she could be.

"Well I think it's delectable," I responded to just annoy Eastridge even more. You just giggled, placed your cleaning clothe on your lap and began to slowly eat. I did not continue my story that night and Eastridge didn't bother to ask anymore which pleased me. I cleaned up the kitchen while you sat at your chair in front of the fireless fireplace sewing together a new dress for yourself.

"I suppose I should go before the Elven guards make their way over here," Eastridge mentioned making me ever so grateful. You stood up and walked over to the door to bid her farewell with a gracious hug. You watched from the doorway as she walked herself home and only closed the door when she was inside completely and her lights were on. You were worried about something but you never told me what it was.

"That was grand," I mentioned walking over to sit in front of the fire place. The rug beneath me was soft hand woven by you when you were a teen. I had taught you how to weave at such a young age I was afraid you wouldn't pick it up, but to my surprise you caught on quickly to almost everything I taught you.

"Agreed, Eastridge is fun. She fancies you. THAT, I can clearly see," you mentioned before sitting down across from me. with a small wave of your finger you brought a flame to the dry wood causing it to crackle and pop from the unexplained heat.

I watched you as you stared into the flame. It was almost like déjà vu from the first time you touched fire. I was beginning to notice your features and how much you didn't look human anymore. Your chocolate brown hair lay in waves around you, pillowing over your shoulders to rest on the rug you sat upon. Human hair never grew this long as people from your village cut theirs or let it grow to their shoulders. Your dark brown eyes weren't so dark anymore, they were light with a hint of green in them. I had to remind myself that you were still human even though you didn't look like it.

"Why are you staring at me like that?" you whispered still looking into the flame. It flickered on your pale skin creating a glow in the creases of your nose and eyes.

"um," I said clearing my throat and looking away towards the fire. I was embarrassed and a tad ashamed. "I was just noticing how long your hair has grown my dear one."

You smiled and closed your eyes. "This is relaxing. The fire is soothing and warm," you mentioned reaching a hand forward into the flames. I watched knowing what was to come but still fearful of you hurting yourself. Your long pale fingers encased the flame and brought it towards you where you held it close enough to examine its flicker. "I never understood how I can do this. I thought myself a freak of nature, but then Odus and you both claim I am special."

After you released the flame back to the logs, I grabbed your surprisingly cold hands and held them in mine. I wanted to feel something and when I held your frail hands in mine I could. We closed our eyes and breathed softly, listening to the fire crackle to concentrate. Whenever I wanted to see what you saw, we would hold hands and dive into your little world where you would show me the life you experienced. I could feel how you felt towards me starting when you were a small child wandering the wood, to when you turned ten and could control your feelings and hide them from me. "You controlling your feelings and hiding them from me isn't fair little one," I whispered breaking the silence.

You giggled and pulled your hands from inside mine. "It's all the more fun oh wise one," you said all too sarcastically. You stood up from the rug and walked over to your side of the home where a curtain gave you privacy. "I shall retire Alluin, goodnight." You drew the curtain and that was the end of it.

I sat there still in front of the fire before putting it out with a glass of water that sat off to the side. Sighing I began to tidy up a bit around the home wondering what you were doing inside your tiny corner. Writing or maybe even reading perhaps. I gathered the things I would need to make breakfast tomorrow laying out the bowl of berries you had to eat every day in order to stay elf like and then heading to your curtain. "Ina, I need to see Odus. I shouldn't be long. I'll be home before the Elven guards start their nightly watch," I spoke through the curtain.

To my surprise, you shot open the corner and gave me a hug which almost knocked me over and caught me by surprise. "Be safe please," you whispered in my ear sending what I presumed were chills down my spine. I was shocked because normally you've never showed these types of emotions. I pulled you into me and closed my eyes to whisper I would be alright and that I needed to leave. I was feeling a bit awkward at the moment and needed to see Odus.

I slipped out my door and threw on my cloak. Sneaking around all the corners of the village homes I made it to Odus'. I needed to clear my head. Odus kept his door unlocked for me so I slipped inside and turned around to him brewing something in his large cauldron. "Ah Alluin my boy, just in time to try some of my homemade soup," he insisted while grabbing a wooden spoon and bowl from his cupboards and serving me up some before I had the chance to debate. "Come, come, have a seat right here."

I flitted over to the stool and seated myself. It was rather rickety and old and if anyone other than someone my size sat in it the chair would crumble. Taking a small mouthful of the soup out of caution for His food was known for its distinguished flavor and I wanted to be prepared. It wasn't half bad as I gulped it down quickly. "I need to speak with you Odus about Ina," I chirped trying to get his attention. He loved Ina and talking about new things I discovered about her or her powers.

"Hmm yes, how is the little beauty? How is her aging process going?" he asked with his nose still inside his book of potions. He was bouncing around between the table and the cupboard, tossing jars onto its top every few second.

"That is why I wanted to see you, her aging process is beautiful, she seems almost true elf, it's just of course, she is different with her powers to control fire. I am a bit worried." I fretted grabbing some of the jars to examining their contents. They were a random sort of objects some alive and others not, all intriguing to me.

"Ah yes, I had found the scriptures," he trailed off behind a curtain still mumbling to himself about where he could have placed it. "Ha! Here it is!" he came out shuffling his way over to me to lay an old cracked book. It had seen better years as it was fairly used. "Inside here you will find your answers." Odus went back to his study, opening the jars and pouring their contents into a large bowl.

I flipped through the pages trying to understand the ancient writings. "what is this scripture, it's hard for me to make out the words," I said squinting at the book thinking maybe I was seeing them wrong.

"Those, my lad, are the old elven versus. Made long ago before your time. They speak of a prophecy, a chosen one if you will, that will bring our nations together." I sat up straight with curiosity arising in my mind. Odus stepped around his table gesturing towards the book that lay before me. "the special creature will be neither human nor Elf, nothing like we have ever seen in our time. Long ago they roamed the earth and humans and elves were united."

"But Odus, if this being is neither human nor elf, how were we able to coincide with the humans?" I questioned intrigued by this new finding glancing down at the book once more as if I could read it.

"That my inquiring friend, is what I am uncertain of. I have studied all the scriptures and writings," he said pointing to the book in my arms and began flipping through the pages. "I am most certain that the passage resides with King Balnik in his living quarters." He placed his wrinkled hand on his white beard and stroked it in immense thought. I scooted the book over to him and engaged in my own thought.

"What does any of this have to do with Ina?" I asked causing him to grow frustrated with his lost train of thought.

"Shh boy, I'm thinking!" he hushed me. I was taken aback as he never seemed so harsh. "If I am correct, there is also an Elvin Lord, and he along with this mythical being will bring balance between the two worlds. This is great! Ina is the chosen one! She has to be. She can control fire with her hands and transfer her thoughts to your mind. Never in the last century has a being existed and she is sent to save us!" Odus was sounding crazy now as he threw his hands into the air. His eyes were red with craze meaning I needed to leave and head home.

Stepping out off of the stool and slowly backing towards the door with Odus trailing closer and closer with each step I took. "If this is true Odus, and Ina is the chosen one, we still don't know who the Elf Lord is," this caused him to pause to think.

"You are right young one. Even still I think we already know who he is." He murmured eyeing me with suspicion.

"Ok, Odus, I must leave. Do your research and we will meet again?" I slowly backed out the door into the crisp evening air. I sighed heavily thinking about what Odus had said. Was I really the Elf Lord? If I was, what would make Balnik? I shook my head of these ridiculous thoughts, threw on my hood and snuck back home.

The house was quiet and dark as I stepped inside my door. I had made it home right before the Elvin guards started their knightly routine. You must've been asleep as it was inaudible. Smoke arose from the fireplace where a fire had once roared. I didn't bother with it non and went right to bed, undressing behind my curtain and ascending under my covers. I lay in thought about what Odus had relayed to me. Was he right about there being a foretelling? Was he right about us? How could I break the news to you about your human side? I would risk losing you as you could grow livid with me. I tossed a few more times in my bed sheets before I was finally able to drift to sleep.

I was awoken to the sound of brunch being made. Groggily, I tossed my feet over the edge of my bed and groaned. "Good morning Alluin!" your melodic voice rang from the kitchen. I was joyful to learn you were here still as the nightmare I had during the night frightened me. I quickly dressed myself and slid out of my room over to you to examine what you were making. "Eastridge gave us some eggs this morning so I thought I would add the extra protein in with our fruit."

I began to pour some hot water from the tea kettle, "Eastridge was here?" I asked. The thought of her in my home while I slept made me grow uncomfortable.

You tittered as if you could feel my fear. "Don't burden yourself, she never came past the entrance," you reassured. I continued placing my herbs into my tea bag and dipped it into my hot water feeling a bit of reprieve. I was going over in my mind how I was going to break the news to you? did you need to know where you came from now? We have gone centuries without being at peace with the humans why or what would it change now. "What is on your mind?" you asked turning to face me, reaching a plate in my direction and seating yourself at the table. You brushed your chocolate brown hair behind your shoulder and began to cut up your egg.

I beamed and sat across from you staring into your eyes. "You have the most elegant eyes I have ever seen," I started, taking a mouthful of the tea.

"I'm undisputable that, that is not what you were thinking previously," you laughed, patting at your lips the egg that escaped between them. Your lips were the pinkest shade of rose and I wanted to caress them. Were my feelings growing more for you? even if I spoke of my true state of mind to you, would you even feel the same?

"What are your plans for the day my dear one?" I asked as I scooped a mouthful of egg and berries into my mouth.

"I supposed I would go together with Eastridge to the marketplace today, would you care to join?" you inquired watching me.

I had finished my meal and noticed you did as well so I grabbed our plates and swiftly stepped over to the wash basin. "I would be pleased to," I responded with a grin. you returned the gesture and stood from the table, walked over to me and kissed my cheek and walked towards your room. I was left feeling an array of emotions I had never felt before. My heart grew warm and beat inversely, faster almost. My cheeks grew warm and flush but I was certain you didn't notice. I concentrated on washing our plates and placing a kettle full of water on the cookstove so that we would have some ready from our trip to the marketplace. My head was in an array of thoughts as I absent mindedly did the chores. I'm elder than her in human years but in elf years we are the same. Was this wrong? She looked up to me, was I more like a brother to you?

You stepped out from behind the curtain robed in your going out clothing. I stopped scrubbing my hands to look at you in awe. "I am ready when you are," you said walking to the door. I'm going to walk over to Eastridge's home, we will meet up outside," you closed the door behind you and skipped across the street.

I needed to change and brush my hair so I flew to my side of the room and swiftly threw on my clothes for an outing, combed my hair, braiding it in one small section, and headed out the door to greet you and Eastridge, giggling and waiting for me in between our homes. I met up with you where you swung your arm to link with my right smiling up at me with such happiness. I was beaming down at you while Eastridge linked her arm with mine left one, catching me off guard, and smiled up at me. I nervously smiled at her, you giggled, and we continued our walk to the market.

We made small talk on the way there. I generally listened in while Eastridge and you talked around me. You'd say something about a meal you were wanting to make and Eastridge would either approve or disapprove the ingredients you wanted to place into it. I was irritated with her because she only ever agreed with you when I had something to say. My thoughts drifted to your arm daintily wrapped around mine. It was pleasing to me, unlike hers which was hard as she kept pulling on it as we walked.

When we made it to the busy market, you unlinked your arm with mine to go look at a stand that had vegetables, leaving Eastridge and I together. She smiled up at me, which I kept staring on at you, watching you swiftly move from stand to stand. Eastridge cleared her throat nervously, making my stomach grow with unease thinking about what she could possibly have to say now that we are alone. We walked slowly behind you, just far enough out of earshot. "People are going to think we are together," she giggled. I grit my teeth to stop myself from speaking harshly. I continued to stare on at you, not really focused on anything particular, just trying to distract myself. She didn't take my silence as a hint and continued on talking. "You know, we have known each other for our whole lives, and I do like you more than just my friend or neighbor. Maybe we could try being a couple? Together we could teach Ina everything we know." She seemed genuine and nervous but I couldn't contain myself any further.

I pulled her in between two stands and brought her closer to me. "Eastridge, you and I could never work out. Ina is practically our age, her aging has stopped, so being an Alther and Abba to her would just be weird and to be honest I like you more as a friend and wouldn't want to ruin our friendship with dating," I whispered. My eyes stared into her sad green one. I could tell I broke her as the water welled up inside them and began to stream down her pale cheeks.

"It's because of Ina isn't it? She isn't your 'little' sister to you anymore," she covered her eyes with her hands, wiping away the tears and sniffling. Was she right? I was uncertain, I had to sort through my feelings on my own.

"That's not it Eastridge, I am not attracted to you in that way. You're beautiful, but beauty is just more than looks," there I said it. She had to know the half-truth of it. With a quivering lower lip, she ran away, out of the marketplace.

I sighed, composed myself, and left to go find you. It was obvious you had been searching for me as well as you weren't where I left you before my talk with our friend. Instead you were looking through the crowd of elves busying themselves with chatter and exchanging gifts for food. I swiftly glided over and linked arms with you, catching you off guard for a moment. "There you are," you smiled looking around to see sight of Eastridge. "Where's Eastridge?"

I placed my other hand around your arm linked with mine and told you she had to leave but never said why and that she would see us later which to my surprise you didn't questions. "She has been acting rather strange lately," you commented in thought. "oh well, I don't mind spending quality time with you," you smiled up at me and pulled me to another stand with different handmade cloth and ribbons.

"Here, let me take your basket," I mentioned reaching for it. Happily, you passed it to me and strode over to go through the woven baskets of cloths. I watched for signs of Eastridge just in case she decided to make her way back over here, but she didn't show. I put my worries behind me and began to enjoy the rest of our visit together. I smiled as I watched you trod with a variety of cloth and ribbons in your arms making your way to pay with your coin. I walked over to help you carry them which you were much obliged, trading me the basket for cloth. "Are you ready to head home?" I asked glancing down at all that you found.

"Yes, today was a productive day and I being ready to rest," you responded swinging your basket gently from side to side. Your chocolate brown hair flowing with the gentle breeze of your swinging arms.

"What do you think you will sew this time?" I asked, stepping up closer to you.

"There's the spring festival coming and I thought we could go. It would be fun to get out of the house for once," you spoke happily. My heart skipped because the male elves were supposed to ask the females and I know for a fact no one has asked you including myself.

"Has anyone asked you to accompany them yet?" I asked regardless of what I knew.

You smiled up at me with glowing cheeks, "Nope," I wondered why this was comical but I smiled down with sincerity. "Have you asked Eastridge? I know you two would be perfect together. Even if no one asks me, I would like to go still. I have always wanted to experience it." You said with wonder. The Spring festival was the welcoming of the planting season. The flowers bloom and the earth smell sweet of nectar. I had never gone as no one in our village caught my eye until you came along, but I would think it weird if you and I were to go. Should I redeem myself with Eastridge and go or just ask you putting aside how I felt?

"I have, erm, thought about maybe asking her," I lied because I haven't. I could feel your mood damper which you tried to hide it. "Maybe I shall tonight."

"I think that would be a lovely idea. I am going to begin sewing our outfits while you head over to her house." You sped up your walk making it back to the home in seconds. I knew you were upset but I didn't have the courage to ask you why. I walked through the door, placed the cloth and ribbons in the table and peered out the door across to Eastridge's house. I really didn't want to do this but I felt I had to in order to keep things normal between us.

"I am going to head over," I said through your curtain. You were silent for a moment on the other side. I sighed in defeat and headed towards the door in which your small voice came from your side of the room. I spun my head around to see your face peering from the other side of the curtain. Were you crying moments before?

"Have fun and good luck," you whispered. I smiled halfheartedly and walked out the door. My heart felt pained. Something I have never experienced before. Don't get me wrong I have feelings it's just that they were veiled deep inside my heart and soul and when you came along, Ina, you dug them back up. I cleared my mind and walked the short distance to Eastridge's house and rapt upon her door. She answered the door with a sniffle. Her eyes were puffy, red and swollen and she wiped at her dripping nostrils.

"What do you want?" she asked gruffly. I took a deep breath trying to calm my accelerated heart rate.

"I came because I wanted to apologize for my actions earlier at the market place. They were cruel and unnecessary." I paused, my heart pounding through my chest but I held my composure steadily. Eastridge sniffled and wiped her eyes once more and smiled up at me.

"You really mean it?" she asked, I wanted to roll my eyes at her remark but instead I nodded my head and put on a fake smile.

"I also wanted to see if you would accompany me to the Spring Festival?" I asked in a small voice wishing I was somewhere else.

Her eyes shot up to mine as if probing for a fib. I was hoping she would still be furious at me and not want to go, but instead, "Really?! You want to go with me?" I rumbled, pretending to clear my throat and bobbed my head in agreeance. "Oh, blessed be the High Elvin king, yes! I would love to Alluin!" she tossed her arms around my neck in excitement which gave me nothing else to do except hug her back. "I have to tell Ina the grand news!" suddenly letting me go, she ran across the street and burst through our door. I wasn't eager to hear this as I was certain your heart would be broken but I sullenly walked across the street to our home and entered. You had started some water on the fire while Eastridge chattered away.

"I'm so happy for you two, really I am," you reassured, grabbing the kettle from the fire, walking over to the counter and setting it upon there so you could grab some cups. "Would you like some tea Alluin?"

I stopped on my way to my room where I was headed to feel sorry for myself before turning around and noticing the desperation in your eyes as if to ask me to stay. I walked over and seated myself across from Eastridge, next to where you would be sitting. Before you had the chance to seat yourself, handing Eastridge and I a cup of hot tea, she moved next to me as if to claim me as some sort of trophy. "I am so excited Ina!" she began chattering as you walked over, grabbed your sewing and seated yourself at the table where you began to distract yourself.

The silence between the three of us was nerve racking. I wanted nothing more than for her to leave so we could spend our evening together in front of the fire. The flames flickered off of the wall of all the oil lamps lit around us. You focused on your sewing and I on my tea. I could see the angst in Eastridge as she wanted to rub it in your face some more that she was going with me and not you. "Who are you going with?" she asked. Placing both of her hands on the table she slowly reached for mine which I pretended to dry on my pants from the moist tea cup.

"Hmm?" you asked as if the question was a trick one. "Oh, no one has asked me yet. Which I am perfectly happy to go alone. I just want to see Alluin happy and dancing for once," you chuckled and continued with your sewing.

"Oh," she began looking down into her tea cup. My eyes followed your small, slender fingers doing their handy work. You were so careful and elegant, never missing a stitch. "I would share my date, but I kind of want him all to myself." I could feel her eyes on me as I occupied myself with your hands. Every so often they would stop to move a hair behind your smooth ears and continue on. A smirk grew upon your luscious lips and I couldn't help but smile myself. You were a modest one, never to take credit for anything, so you allowed Eastridge to believe it was I who thought of taking her out on my own.

We sat in silence sipping our tea before you lay your sewing to rest. "I suppose I shall retire now." You stood up, placed your sewing into the basket and flitted over to your curtain where you snuck behind it. I wanted to be frustrated with you over you leaving me alone with Eastridge but then again maybe I could understand how you felt a little more if I spoke with you about it.

After a few moments alone, I gulped down my tea looking for a reason to be rid of Eastridge. "I suppose I shall retire as well." I reached for her cup and walked it over to the wash basin feeling her eyes on my back.

"Aren't you going to walk me home?" she asked. Seriously? Knowing the distance, I was certain she was joking, but when I whirled around to see her expression it was more so of a beg. She was serious.

"Alright," I said placing the cups into the basin and turning towards the door. She glided over towards me and wrapped her arm around mine. We made the short trek over to her house where I stopped outside her door, trying to usher her inside with nonsense of being exhausted from today's adventure to the market. Without notice she leaned up on her toes and kissed my nose and hurriedly made her way inside her home. I stood there in shock for a moment trying to understand what had just happened. That was uncalled for but I couldn't let her know, she was sensitive.

I trekked back to our side of the path and shut myself into our silent home. I questioned whether you were awake as I wanted to speak with you. Lowering the oil lamps, I sauntered over to your side if the house and cleared my throat, "Little one, are you awake?" I stood there for a moment waiting for any sounds of rustling.

To my surprise your small voice spoke from the other side of the curtain right next to me. "Yes, I am." You moved it aside and stepped out, clothed all in your nightgown that I had never seen you in. it was of pure white, ruffled at the shoulders and breast. Your small round breasts creating tiny mounds behind it. I kept my eye contact with yours as I asked you to come sit with me by the fire.

You did without hesitating, stepping around me and lightly treading over towards the fire place to sit on the rug. With a wave of your finger, you lit the small glowing embers, creating a larger flame. I slowly stepped towards you and sat down. I watched your hazel eyes stare blankly into the flames. The flickers created ominous glows on your face. I took a deep breath and braced myself, I needed to know your feelings. "Is everything alright my dear one?" I began. Your eyes closed, your chest heaved in and out with every small breath you took.

"I am fine my elder, I should be asking you the same thing." I was taken aback by your words. Had you noticed my strange responses lately? Without any word you placed your frail hand onto my cheek showing me all that you had been noticing between us. How I watched you earlier today with your sewing, how I kept my eyes on you as you walked the marketplace and then disappeared with Eastridge. Releasing my cheek, you turned to face me and place both of your hands in mine. I felt weak, nauseous almost for I was uncertain as how I was to explain my feeling lately when I never even understood them myself.

"I do not understand my actions, little one. I was never aware you knew what I have been feeling lately. I apologize." I began, looking down at our hands. I took my thumbs and began to rub them between yours and your forefinger.

"Have your feelings towards me changed?" you whispered in a small voice looking into my eyes searching for some sort of answer.

I couldn't face you. "No, my dear one, they have not." I felt ashamed. I needed to speak with Odus about what I have been feeling lately for lying to you cut me like a sharp dagger. You took your hands out of mine and folded them into your lap, stared off into the fire unmoving. I continued to stare at your side profile. The fire gleamed off of your perfect porcelain skin. my heart rate grew faster, excited almost and I had to look away.

"I want you to enjoy your time with Eastridge. She is rather fond of you and I feel you need companionship. You have spent so many years raising me that I think it is time for you to find a mate," you started. You had turned your gaze towards mine, my eyes wider than they were moments before in shock. Eastridge was not mate material. She was my kind, unlike you, but I didn't have that connection with her.

"I will enjoy myself, Eastridge isn't for me. She is promised to another, she just doesn't know it yet as her eyes are clouded with shrouds of me," I pushed. Slowly I reached a hand up and brushed a strand of hair away from your eyes. You closed them and then stood up hastily.

"I shall retire," you spoke softly, stepping past me and disappearing behind your curtain. I sat there on the rug as the fire crackled on. What did I do wrong? I am uncertain as to what I want as I mustn't lead Eastridge on but Ina, we are incompatible. Is it you that I want? I rose from my seat on the floor, walked to my side of the room, glanced back at yours in hopes of seeing your shadow before heading to bed. I lay there staring up at the ceiling in thought, I needed to speak with Odus for sure tomorrow.

The next morning, I awoke to the smell of breakfast being prepared. Sitting on the edge of the bed I let my lanky legs hang over as I yawned and stretched. You hummed a hymn I taught you at a young age. Dishware clanked together in the kitchen. By the time I was ready for the day, I stepped out from behind my curtain, draped my satchel over shoulder and my cloak over my head. You had finished placing our plates on the table and sat down with your sewing. With only a few days until the festival you worked endlessly to create the perfect gown. "Good morning," I said shoving some toasted bread and jam into my mouth and chugging my tea before heading out the door.

"Where are you headed in such a hurry?" you asked from your seat.

"I need to see Odus, I have some enquiries for him and I know he will have the answers I need," I said without stopping to talk any longer. The crisp air felt refreshing in my lungs. The wind tickled my silver hair as I brought my hood up over my head and proceeded to make the trek to town. The Elvin guards were beginning their morning routines, which I trusted You with. I tapped on Odus' door and barged inside without waiting for an answer.

"What is it boy? Don't you know the sun has just risen?" he said groggily, grabbing his cane and rubbing the sleep from his eyes. He stepped over to the opposite side of the table where he pulled out a bowl and began to crack eggs into it.

"I know high elder, but I seek answers," I began only to be cut off. I sat the opposite side of the table and watched.

"Answers to what?" he grunted as he began to whip the eggs together with goat's milk.

"Well, I have been having these strange feelings whenever I see or am around Ina. Every touch is different. Every look of her face causes my heart to beat faster and faster as though it is about to jump out of my chest!" I exclaimed making pounding motions against my chest. I was left winded. Odus had stopped whipping to stare at me through the tops of his halfmoon glasses. "What?" I asked feeling confused.

"Son, you are in love," he said without much hesitation. He turned around to grab some spices from his rack and began to add a dash from each.

"What? No, that can't be true. She and I are not compatible. You know this, she is human and I Elf." I sat back down in wonder, Odus chuckled and continued with his whipping. Is the prophecy true?

"Remember a few evenings ago when you came to my home searching for more answers? I am telling you; you are what the legend says. You and Ina are meant for each other. Only the two of you shall bring peace between our world and theirs!" he exclaimed. The sizzle of the eggs over the fire rang out from the pan creating steam.

"But how do I tell her? do I lie and not tell her what her true purpose is? Do I act as if she is still a part of our kind?" I asked leaning in on the table.

"You must. It is relevant that she knows for if she does then she can decide where she stands, with us, or with her kind." Odus said feverishly. I grew sick. I didn't want her know out of fear of losing her. She was love and kindness and I didn't want to let that go.

I stood up and reached for the door, "I will do what I must, in due time. But as of right now, I am just not ready."

"Ah yes, you may never be son," Odus whispered flipping his eggs onto his plate and then stepping towards the table. He was right. I may never be.

I made a promise to myself as I walked back home, that after the festival I would tell you where you really came from. I had to face my fears of losing you and who know, maybe you would want to stay since I was home to you. your kind cast you out of their village therefore they didn't want you. but I did, and without knowing the love I had for you as a brother would someday grow to more than that.

I stepped in through the door where you sat near the fire sewing away. On the table lay a half sewn blue blouse. "Busy working, I see?" I said stepping over to the wash basin to cleanse my hands.

"Hmm," you grunted sewing away. "Eastridge stopped by, but when she saw that you weren't here, she left mentioning she would be back later so I would expect her sometime soon. She most likely saw you coming in."

I moaned and grabbed the tea kettle, filled it up with water, and hung it over the flames. "How's the gown coming along?" I asked crouching to my knees to sit in front of you. You placed your sewing down and smiled at me.

"It's coming, I decided to go with blue, which I hope will look great," you said in a small melodic voice. I took your hands in mine and smiled at you. Your eyes seemed sad like. I wished you would talk to me but I understood why you were guarded.

Eastridge burst through our doors causing me to jump back. "Heeellllooooo!" she sang stepping over to us. I stood up and smiled over at her as you picked up your sewing once more. "How's the gown coming along? Has anyone asked you yet?" of course she would make certain to rub salt on your wounds. I rolled my eyes, grabbed the kettle and went to the kitchen.

"My gown is coming along nicely, and to answer your question, no, I haven't been asked by anyone yet. I am perfectly confident in going alone." I peered over my shoulder at you smiling up at Eastridge who then plopped in the opposite chair. I poured three cups of hot water, dunked the tea into the water, added some honey, and walked over to hand you yours first on purpose and then Eastridge. You will always be before anyone in my life no matter what decisions you make. You nodded up at me and smiled whereas Eastridge looked up and grinned wide as if this was the greatest thing someone has ever done for her.

I seated myself next to you on the floor so I could face out. Another gesture I made so that Eastridge could take hint. "Do you suppose you will be done in time for the festival?" she asked.

"I am sure I will be. Just in time perhaps," you responded without looking away from your sewing. We sat there in silence for a few moments. I wanted nothing more than for Eastridge to leave us be so we could have some time together. It seemed she had become more of a pest since I had asked her to accompany me to the Spring festival. You hummed your favorite hymn I used to sing to you when you were little. I remember the day when the clouds rumbled in the dark sky as if angry, lashing out it's rays of electricity. I was dead asleep awoken by your tiny cries on your side of the house. You were wrapped up in your fuzzy blanket from the first night you were here with me, crying and looking frightened. I scooted onto the bed, placing you in my lap and held you close to me and humming. Eventually you fell asleep safe in my arms and I had no choice but to stay there with you as I didn't want to wake you.

I was brought to reality with Eastridge's high shrill of a voice describing what her dress was going to look like. It was pink and frilly as all, your favorite color of course. You laughed at the imagination of it I'm sure and I couldn't help myself but snicker. I wasn't too worried about the color as it looked dashing on myself. You began your humming once more and I could feel Eastridge grow unease by our calmness. She stood up, sipped the last of her tea and headed for the door. "I want to be early for the festival tomorrow Alluin, and I expect flowers!" she exclaimed shutting our door rather hard.

"Do you suppose she is annoyed with me yet?" I joked which you didn't seem to find so funny as you continued on sewing away. I scratched the back of my neck, stood up, walked our cups over to the wash basin and grabbed my satchel. "I suppose I shall go purchase some flowers from the market before sun fall," I suggested stepping towards the door.

"She loves daisies!" you shouted as I headed out the door. I knew that, well every male elf knew that every female loved daisies which is why I was so fond of you because you fancied lilies. They may have been more spendy but they were worth it.

Heading to the market I had decided I would use my coin to get you some as well as a surprise. The little flower stand was running low on their daisies so I had slim pickings which would make me look like the bad guy if I showed up with a gorgeous bouquet for you and a small half dead one for Eastridge so I planted a few lilies in with hers. Handing me off the two bouquets I happily walked home and entered to a quiet place. "Hello?" I asked softly grabbing down a wooden vase to place your flowers in.

"Yes, I am in here," you shouted from the other side of the curtain. "Just wanted to try on my dress and see how it fits.

I placed the bouquet on the counter and walked over to the curtain. "Is everything alright?" I asked speaking softly through the curtain.

"Err, yes. I can't let you see until tomorrow," you responded. I heard some rustling on your side and then you popped out from behind the curtain catching me by surprise. You flung your arms around me, kissed my cheek and then flitted to the kitchen. "These are gorgeous!" you exclaimed picking up your bouquet. "These for Eastridge?" you asked adding water to the vase to place them in.

"Actually," I began, walking over towards you to unwrap the cloth that encased them. "They're for you." You blushed and inhaled their sweet scent. Your eyes twinkled as you looked down upon them and my heart leapt in my chest. I cleared my throat and grabbed the vase from the wash basin and placed it on the counter. You placed them in the vase and placed the vase onto the table's center.

"There, now we can always see them and the sun will warm their petals every morning," you smiled and turned towards me. I returned the smile staring into your eyes. I had a strange longing in the pit of my stomach to take your hand into mine and pull you into me and encase you in my arms. Instead you walked over to the bookshelf, grabbed a book and sat down in front of the fire and read it. I felt defeated for some odd reason and sat down at the table to think about tomorrow. I was thrilled to finally be able to go to the Spring festival but not for the reasons you would think.

When night fell, we bade each other goodnight and left to our rooms. I lay in bed thinking about you and what Odus had told me. If I was the Elf lord, I would be the ruler of all the elves and bring peace to our side of the world. I had to tell you, Ina, where you came from and how your powers were given to you to save the world. But how? I fell asleep as dreams of use filled my head. I woke feeling warm and energized as I dressed myself in my festival attire. I wore my light leather shoes, green tights, my best white button up shirt with my green button jacket with the gold buttons. I quickly examined myself in the glass, combed my hair, tide it halfway behind my head and stepped out to make breakfast.

I quickly put together quail eggs and fruit making sure to place your berries on your plate, set each plate on the table and proceeded to sit down to eat. You never emerged from your side of the house and I grew worried. After eating I washed my plate, grabbed yours and took it to the outside of your curtain. "Ina, darling, I made you breakfast." I said softly.

"I'll grab it later; I am getting ready now. Can you please place it on the table?" I shuffled back to the table where I set your plate down.

A knock happened upon the door and I hurried to answer it. To my surprise it was Eastridge, all clade in her bright pink dress. "Green? We clash now Alluin!" she said in a disapproving tone. My eyes dimmed at her snarky remark.

"Hello Eastridge, I thought I was greeting you at your place?" I questioned as she brushed past me and into the house. She stopped short of the kitchen and noticed your bouquet of flowers.

"Are those for me?" she asked with a large smile growing upon her face.

"No actually these are yours," I said grabbing her smaller bouquet and handing it to her. she smelt them, made some kind of remark under her breath and began to look around the room.

"Where's Ina?" she asked placing her flowers on the table. I could tell she was anxious by her actions towards me. Possibly annoyed with her small flowers.

"I believe she is getting ready still," I replied glancing down at her plate of breakfast still on the table. "Ina? Would you like to walk with us?" I asked stepping into the living room hoping you could hear me.

"N-No, you two go ahead, I will meet you guys there," you responded quickly.

I grew concerned instantly, "Is everything alright?" I asked but Eastridge stepped over, linked her arm with mine and tugged me towards the door.

"Come on Alluin, she is fine, I want to get there early." I didn't have time to wait for a response as I willingly went with Eastridge. I was annoyed with her selfish actions but tried not to let it damper my mood. As we trailed down towards the castle, Eastridge kept the conversation going by talking constantly. She mentioned I was handsome after a moment and then carried on. I drowned out her voice thinking about you and admiring the beautiful décor that was streamed around the center of the town. Other villagers were piling into the castle as we made our way closer. "Hurry!" Eastridge urged pulling me towards the castle to merge with the other couples.

We started down the steps into the ballroom slowly, bumping into fellow goers. I was growing irritated, looking behind me for you, but not seeing any signs. Everyone gathered into the ballroom, talking quietly amongst themselves. Eastridge still clung to my arm as if I was her prized possession smiling at me and waving at people who noticed we were together. The Elvin King made his way to the centered stage where he began to great everyone and thank them for joining. I glanced behind me one last time in hopes of seeing you and my heart throbbed heavily in my chest.

There you were, leisurely making your way down the steps trying not to draw attention to yourself, escorted by no one. You didn't want to take the scene from King Alagaard, who still was acknowledging everyone for their hard work on the decorations. You slowly walked unnoticed to the end of the crowd and stood behind everyone else, placing your hands neatly in front of you. Eastridge cleared her throat and grunted at me in exasperation. "What or who are you gawking at?" she asked trying to look behind us. I scooted us over closer towards the middle the group to distract her.

Once King Alagaard's speech was finished everyone dispersed into their own little groups. I had lost sight of you and I knew I needed to lose Eastridge for a moment so I could search for you without her knowing. "I'll go grab us some drinks," I told Eastridge leaving her to continue galivanting with our neighbors.

I swiftly squeezed through the commotion of elves and made it to the drink table where I proceeded to pour myself a glass of the rose champagne and look amongst the crowd at everyone beginning to dance. I finally caught sight of you twirling around with another male elf, cladded in high fashion, smiling politely at him as he stared peevishly at you. I snorted as I took another sip of my champagne. I seized another glass for Eastridge and headed back through the twirling group towards the table where she sat irritated and waiting. "We wasted the first dance no thanks to you," she alleged grudgingly. I overlooked her statement, passed her the glass and sat down to watch you. Your dress, a baby's breath blue, twirled around you. it drew up towards your neck line leaving your perfectly pastel shoulders visible. You were light on your feet twirling around the gentleman and when the music ended you two bowed and parted ways. You settled yourself at a table that was surprisingly empty and when the next suitor came, you must've told him no as he sauntered away leaving you.

"Come on!" Eastridge hollered grabbing my hand and bringing me to the floor. "We are not missing anymore dances." I twirled her around but kept my eye on you. Eastridge wrapped her arms around my neck and pulled me into her painfully as she was considerable shorter than I. You sat at the table observing the crowd of dancers' twirl around in a colorful array as the cheerful music played on. Once over I was winded and sat back at the table where I quickly chugged my drink and glanced back at you. "Well that was a bit of a doozy. What's gotten into you Alluin?"

"Nothing Eastridge, I am fine," I responded looking at her, giving her my full attention. Within that split second you were up and walking with the next gentleman to the dance floor.

"Ah, there's Ina," Eastridge whispered quietly. "Huh, good thing you two didn't go together, her blue and your green would've clashed way more than ours."

I grasped her hand and brought her to the dance floor, knowing I would have a chance to dance with you with this next song. Eastridge and I started out together, then parting at arm's length, she would reach for the next companion, with us being next to you, I was your companion. I spun you into me and caught you by surprise. "Oh! Alluin, hello," you giggled. "Don't you look striking tonight." My heart rang in my ears almost dying out the crowd. Your chocolate brown hair lay pillowing around your shoulders coming across your arms. Your soft, pale pink skin and lustrous lips glowed under the candle lights. I didn't want to let you go so when it was my turn to hand you off, I spun you around. "What are you doing?" you giggled.

"I desired to dance with you a minute longer," I replied with a half-smile which made you blush. "You are looking, beyond gorgeous tonight my little one." I could feel my face grow warm as I had never complimented any woman before.

"You're too kind," you smiled up at me greatly causing your eyes you squint shut. I passed on handing you to the next gentleman again and pulled you into me. the music was moving fast and the chatter was great, I was growing light headed from exhilaration.

When the melody ended, I bowed, you bowed and I kissed your hand keeping my eyes upon yours. You left for your table as I walked back to mine where Eastridge was waiting with fury. "What happened to you?" she inquired begrudgingly.

"I needed to speak with Ina for a moment, that was all." I responded, staring out into the crowd. I was thinking about our dance, Ina. I longed for another.

"About what?" she asked. All I did was glare at her as if to tell her with my cold stare that it is none of her business. She grunted and turned to face the crowds.

For the next several hours until the time grew late, I sat and watched you dance the night away. Eastridge had grown relatively bored with me and took off with another gentleman who danced every dance with her. I sipped my sparkling beverage watching your hair spin around you and stopping whenever someone brought you towards them. I decided I needed to get the courage to ask you to dance and I did.

I stood up, brushed off my clean pants of imaginary titbits, walked briskly over towards you and held out my hand. you beamed up at me, positioned your small hand in mine and I walked us towards the middle of the floor. My heart was racing and I was certain the whole castle could hear it. I spun you lightly towards me, took your left hand in my right, placed my left on your waist, pulled you in close as you placed your left on my shoulder and began to sway slowly. The music was slow and cheery. The lights were dimming as one by one the candles slowly went out. I tried to slow my breathing thinking about what I was wanting to do. catching me off guard you laid your head on my chest causing me to grow even more anxious. This felt so right to me. I closed my eyes and rested my head on your thick hair. you smelt sweet, like nothing I had ever smelt before and it attracted me, like bees to springtime honeysuckles.

Our hands, still clasped around each other's, lay at our side as your right held a tight grasp on my shoulder. You leaned your head back to grin up at me and I couldn't stop myself. I slowly and delicately pressed my lips into yours closing my eyes to relish the moment. You didn't protest, in fact you pressed you trivial body against mine and pulled my face more into yours with each of your hands on my cheeks. We pulled away quickly when we heard a gasp come from the distance. "Is this real!?" came the high shrill of Eastridge's voice who held a glass of rose champagne in her hand. we both turned to look at her screwed up disgusted face as she stood frozen before us.

"Eastridge, I, Uh, let me explain," I began which by now it was too late as the glass of champagne was thrown in my face and she ran up the stairs sobbing. You frowned at me and ran after your friend which I understood. I went to the table and grabbed a few fig leaves to dry myself with. I am a soaking mess and now I reek of champagne, but that kiss nevertheless was astonishing. I felt some sort of magnifying pull bringing us closer.

After a few short minutes you came walking down the stairs again. I stood and walked over to meet you halfway. "Where's Eastridge?" I asked looking past you to see if she was coming back.

"Don't worry about her, she is okay. Dejected, but okay," you enveloped your hand around mine and started pulling me towards to steps. "Come on, let's head home as it's very late."

We started our small and short trek home without speaking. With your other hand, you slipped it up inside my arm that was holding your left hand. I beamed in the dully lit night to myself. Things were starting to look changed for us. You rested your head on my arm, I'm sure if I was shorter, you'd be resting on my shoulder, and sighed a little. You smelt delicious, sweet and pure. The early spring evening was cool as it took over my lungs with the deepest of breathes, I took. I didn't want this evening to end, everything about it was perfect, I was even wiling to forget how drenched I got from Eastridge. Our feet made small clacking noises against the stoned pathway, the late-night birds called throughout the forest as small glows of tiny insects went in and out around us.

Once at the entrance of our home, you stepped inside first, I took a moment to guise back at Eastridge's home which was entirely dark before entering ours and that's when you drew me into you. I was caught by amazement as you brought my face down to meet yours and caressed my lips hard but passionately. I could feel the need and desire in your lips as I wrapped my arms around your slender hips, my heart racing from exhilaration, and brought you into me pressing your thin body against mine. There was no one around to stop this desire that coursed through my body. I closed my eyes and inhaled your saccharine breath wanting more. Our tongues danced around each other in a battle of fiery passion. I surprised myself when a groan emerged from my throat. We somehow managed to become close to the wall where I pressed you up against it gently. I reached down underneath your thighs and lifted you up to my height where you hooked your legs onto my hips. It was as if we couldn't get enough of each other and our bodies were in a state of tug-o-war. My soul was hungry for you and by the way your lips trembled against mine I knew you were too. Were we ready to take this a step further? I wanted to desperately ravish you right here on the floor but thought it un romantic as our home wasn't prepared for such a desire.

You pulled away, your lenient eyes looking into mine as you muttered softly, "Take me, Alluin." My eyes bounced between both of yours making sure you were serious. My heart was pounding in my ears so I was certain I imagined it all. Nonetheless you nodded your head slowly, smiled at my lips and brushed your thumb over my cheek. Then with a quick swoosh of your hand the fire place was lit creating an impractical glow throughout the room. You are beyond amazing. I walked us over towards the center of the living room and laid you on the rug. I leaned in to kiss you, feeling a bit anxious as out of all my years I have never had a female this close to me rather lost my virtue to one. "One moment," you whispered slipping out from underneath me, walking to your room and returning with the big blanket you had since you were young. I sat up on my knees and began rubbing my hands on my thighs out of nervousness, as you sat in front of me.

You enfolded us in the blanket and propped your head against my chest. "I can sense your nervousness, dear one. Have you not lain with a woman before?" you asked directly.

I chuckled and whispered no into your hair as I rested my chin upon it and closed my eyes combing my fingers through your locks. You began to gradually unbutton my vest and undershirt. I inhaled deeply trying to calm my active nerves. You placed your hands on my broad chest and lightly trailed your fingers down and across my quivering muscles. My body craved a touch I had never received until this moment; it was very tantalizing and new. My blood ran frantic through my veins pulsing like the roar of the fire. You sat back up on your knees and began to unclasp the hook that held your dress together at the nap of your neck, I glanced away nervously and fearful but you gently brought my face back towards you and stared into my eyes. Am I in a dream? Had I passed out intoxicated from the amount of rose champagne I consumed back at the castle? I blinked and stared into your radiant eyes as you continued to slip your dress lower and lower ever so slowly off of your chest. No this is real.

My breathing grew shallow as I watched you expose your perfectly round breasts with their peaked rosy pink nipples. The skin on your stomach glistened from the vivacity of the fire and your hair encased you like a cloak. You stood up to rid yourself of the dress, slipping each foot out and scooting it off to the side. A small tuff of brown hair lay at the conjunction of your thighs. You rejoined me on the ground wrapping yourself back up in the blanket. "You're…absolutely stunning," I exhaled. You blushed and watched the glowing flames. I scooted myself closer to you, took my thumb and forefinger and turned your head back towards mine and pressed my lips into yours hungrily. My silvery hair fell around us mixing in with your chocolaty brown as we continued our kiss of fiery passion.

You reached down for my trousers and began to unfasten them. Out of nervousness I reached for your hands and grasped them, quickly pulling away from your lips. You caught on to my mood. "It'll be alright. I'll be gentle, I promise," you whispered looking at me with a troubled expression.

"I'm not afraid of that. It's just, I'm terrified I'll fail you or mess this up," I whispered back feeling agony in my heart. My shoulders slumped forward but I held onto your hands.

"Alluin," you began slipping out of my grasp and placing your hands on either side of my face, "this is my first time too. Besides, you could never disappoint me," you comforted. I didn't try and stop you as you continue to unzip my bottoms, rather I closed my eyes to attempt and even my breathing. I felt your hand reach inside and take hold of me which caused me to catch my breath and let out a grunt. Your fingers traced up and down the length of my shaft stopping at the head to then draw small circles at the tip sending a spiral of shudders down my spine. "You're flawless," you whispered. I felt comforted by your tender words and opened my eyes. I removed my shirt and trousers the rest of the way tossing them to the side where your heap of a dress lay and brought you into me.

I placed my hand in the small of your back and pressed your chest into mine kissing your feverishly. I needed, no wanted to feel your soft flesh against mine. Your breasts were soft against my hard chest reminding me of rose petals clumped together to form their flower. I began to leave a trail from my lips down your neck to your perfect breasts where I began to kiss your hardened nipples. You inhaled sharply and pulled my head closer to you while your fingers entangled in my hair. Obviously, this is what brought you pleasure so I took one of your luscious breasts into my mouth and began to suck and nibble gently. Feeling your body close to mine had me growing firm. I had never felt so rigid in all my years. The blood rushed to the head causing it to swell a little as I pressed myself against your inviting skin rubbing into your inviting folds. You took your left hand as the right stayed entangled in my hair and began to drag it gently up and down the length of me. I felt as if I was going to shatter from the immense desire you were bringing me. "Ung, Ina," I whispered into your breasts. You lifted yourself above me and guided yourself slowly down onto my erection. I was convinced I was about to lose myself and squeezed you into me as you began to move your body in perfect rhythm against mine. I brushed your hair behind your shoulders and slid my hands down over your buttocks feeling two tiny dimples above each bump. Your skin was smooth as velvet feathers, the color as pale as milk. The fire created shadows that danced upon your glistening skin. Your eyes which stared into mine twinkled a different way tonight.

You felt a great deal of something I could never describe with words. You were moist and what I would presume as warm, I had never felt warmth before. I fit perfectly into you, it hurt for a moment as you were petite and if it hurt going inside you, you never made a sound. You just moaned softly into my neck. My legs were beginning to tingle from the awkward angle they were at so placing my hand in your back and the other on the ground above you I laid you in front of the fire, still together, I interlocked our hands together above your head and tried to keep the rhythm you had once started. Your hair lay around you like a brown sea, mine dangled down from my head encasing us in a silvery white curtain. I couldn't take my eyes off of yours as I concentrated on your body movements. Every so often you would close your eyes and let out a whimper. You released your hand from mine and placed it between my shoulders, arching yours. "Alluin," you exhaled. I grew firm inside you at the sound of you saying my name in passion. I was about to be released as I grew weak to your body under mine.

I continued to drive my hips into yours, my breathing increasing and groaning as I came into you. Your hand dug its nails into my back dragging their way to my forearm where you squeezed tightly and moaned with desire. The muscles amid your legs that enveloped themselves around my erection tensed and released as you grew weaker from the pleasure. I collapsed above you from exhaustion, we both lay there breathless in front of the fire. my head lay against your chest as you began to twirl your fingers in my hair. "Mmmm," I moaned feeling relaxed. I lifted my head to see the expression on your face as you continued to twirl my hair around your fingers. "I'm certain I look a mess," I joked noticing the small silver hairs floating around my face. You chuckled, opened your eyes and placed a small hand on my cheek. "I adore you my little one." I brushed a finger over her rosy cheek.

We laid in the nude with me hovering above you for a moment more before I mentioned needing to go to the bath house. We had one conveniently located in our back yard where a tall fence wrapped around it to allow privacy. "I'll join you," you responded wiggling your way out from underneath me and disappearing behind your curtain. I sat up on my knees and stood to my feet. The hour was late which meant if we were caught up at this time of night, we would get a scolding from the Elvin guards. I disappeared behind my curtain rummaging through my baskets for my bathing supplies. I wrapped a towel around my waist and stood before the curtain thinking about what just happened between us. I smiled, licked my lips where the taste of you still lingered and brushed past my curtain where you stood waiting for me. A towel was wrapped around your body as well and in your hands were your bathing supplies.

"We have to be quiet now my dear one," I mentioned stepping over towards you. you nodded in response and turned towards the door where we had to sneakily walk out and around the house to get to bath house.

Once inside, I lit the oil lamp and started the water. Our bath had a large tub that could fit two normal sized elves in it which meant we would have a great deal of room, a mirror, and a toilet. When I turned around after adding lavender oils to the water and swishing it around, you had already dropped your towel. I stepped aside to let you get in first before I unwrapped myself, feeling more confident about my body, and stepped into the steamy waters as well. You were turned away from me as you began to take the bucket that I provided so long ago, and pour water over your head. I sat down behind you to watch as you dragged your sponge over your pale skin. Together our hair took over the water, flowing all around us in a strange mixture. You turned sideways to scrub up under your neck and I watched as the soap bubbles made their way down your chest and over your breasts.

I grabbed the bucket as it floated in my direction bobbing in and out of the water with your every movement, and began to splash some of it onto you rinsing off the soap. You giggled as water splashed in your face, sputtering it out and wiping your eyes. you turned your back to me and began rinsing the soap from your hair. I took your long strands and began to braid them up for you. I remember my Abba teaching me how to braid my own hair when I was younger and bestowed the gift upon you. Turning to face me you sunk low into the water until just your face was floating above the bubbly waters. Your toes tickled the inside of my thigh as I reached into the water to grab them. A devilish smile plays upon your luscious lips.

Emerging from the waters, you sprung up, splashing water everywhere and landed in front of me in between my legs. You laughed out loud and I motioned with my finger that we needed to be silent. Wrapping your arms around my neck you pulled yourself onto me, "let them find us elder one, we have nothing to hide." Leaned in to kiss me arising the flames I had put out with our fight for passion. I gave in to the desire as I wanted more of you and kissed you back, entangling my hair in your braid as I pulled your soft flesh to mine.

I pulled away for an instance and mentioned we needed to get to bed. The persistence in your wanting lips said otherwise was I pressed on. "You need your sleep my little one," I said placing you aside and getting out to wrap myself up in a towel. The bath house was steamy, pillows of moisture moved their way through the air around me as I turned to hand you your towel. You swam around the now large mostly empty tub looking up at me with a disapproving look. You finally gave up as I wasn't given in by your sexual pressure. I wrapped you in your towel, grabbed our things and started the trek to the front of the house.

The air smelt warm, almost muggy in a sort of way that reminded me of early summer even though it was barely spring. The village was silent around us; the only hums came from the late-night forest creatures. I turned to stare at Eastridge's home, where it lay in complete darkness as before. You ushered through the door with me trailing right behind you. The fire, barely a few embers, glowed with waves of orange and red. I slid behind my curtain to throw on some clothes quickly to return with you standing dressed in a nightgown in the kitchen. "I suppose I am tired, I shall retire," you spoke softly almost in a daze. You stood on the tips of your toes to kiss my cheek before heading to your room, your hand lay upon your temple as if pained of some sort. I shrugged it off and went to my side of the room where I lay in bed thinking. I had to tell you who you really are and, in the morning, I figured it would be best.

The next morning, I was awoken to a cry that stopped my heartbeat, caused me to rush out of my bed and run to your side of the house. You stood in front of a mirror examining yourself in a sort of terrified manner. "Is…. everything alright Ina?" I asked slowly making my way towards you.

You rapidly spun around to face me, you looked changed, your elf ears were no longer there, your eyes had darkened to their natural color and your hair was course and long in an almost unhealthy state. "Why don't I look like you anymore?" you asked in a high-pitch shrill. You must've not eaten the berries for the last couple of days. I had been irresponsible with them recently.

"I need to tell you something," I began in a flat tone. I was feeling disoriented, my pulse rang in my ears. You gawked at me with piercing eyes. I sat on your bed trying to calm myself and find the words to tell you how you weren't an elf. "Ina, you aren't an elf like myself and like the people of our village, you're human."

"I'm a what?" you said abruptly whirling back to look at the mirror once more.

"Well you aren't precisely human either. You see, long ago, before our time, humans and elves existed together in peace. Then there was a vast war isolating our land and our people driving us to live deep in Mulheim never to see nor talk with one another again. A prophecy predicted that a being of great power was to come and bring peace between our kinds again and I believe you are that being." You stared at me as if everything made no sense to you. "Ina, in order to save our people and bring peace amongst the two kinds you have to fight."

"Did you steal me away from my real parents?" you demanded walking over to the window to look out.

"No! Ina I would never do that. Your village didn't want you. Your real parents passed away from a plague that was brought upon them when you were born," I said rather too harshly. You looked at me hurt catching on to my tone, I stood up and reached for your hands which you pulled away. I didn't blame you, but I felt hurt by your actions in response to mine. "Ina, you're special. I have no doubt about that. I want you to stay here with me, please. We can fix this, let me fix this. Please Ina, I can't lose you."

All was silent around us, tears welled up in your dark brown eyes and streamed down your pale cheeks. You didn't look well and even though you were back to your true form you looked beautiful still. You paced around your room clutching your hands to your chest breathing heavily as if there wasn't enough oxygen in the room. My heart hurt, as if I stabbed my blade through it. I should've told you sooner who you truly were, I knew that. I just wanted to enjoy the time I had with you. "I Found you wandering toward the woods many years ago and I desired to help you. I kept an eye on your village and its people and how they treated you. You are different Ina." I recognized my words seemed meaningless but I needed to say something to break the tension.

Your pacing stopped as you stood before me shaking your head. "I'm leaving," you began.

"What? No Ina please," I stammered reaching for your hands and grasping them with mine. "Please don't leave!" I begged, you couldn't, no shouldn't leave not in this state.

"No Alluin, you lied to me. You lied my whole life! I'm not yours anymore. I never was!" you yanked your hands from mine, grabbed your large satchel and began packing it with clothes and random objects.

"You can't leave during the day, they'll see you!" I reminded hoping I could at least get you to stay until nightfall.

"I do not care, let them see me!" you yelled back. I grew worried that someone would hear us hollering and come to investigate.

"Where are you going to go? I can take care of you here Ina, please don't leave. I am beyond sorry for this. I never wanted you to find out this way." I began to follow you around your small room as you grabbed random objects and tucked them into your satchel.

"How Alluin? How were you going to tell me I am neither human nor elf?" you asked spinning around and throwing your arms in the air. "we spent a night of passion together and then I wake up looking like this!" you said gesturing to yourself. I stopped following you and watched as you unlatched your window and pushed it open wide.

"Please Ina," I begged one last time my voice cracking as the lump grew in my throat. My eyes filled with tears as they poured over the edge. I reached a hand out to you in hopes you'd take it but all you did was sigh and hop over the ledge of the window. I ran to the ledge and watch you sprint to the forest ahead disappearing through the thick trees' unseen.

Grabbing my cloak, I ran out my door to Odus' house where I burst through the doors and yelled, "SHE'S GONE!"

Odus, rubbing the sleep from his eyes, came slowly waltzing out from his room, "Who's gone?" he asked groggily, reaching for his cane to help support him.

"Ina! She forgot to eat the magic berries causing her to return back to her human form which she saw in her reflection this morning and freaked-!"

"Slow down, slow down my boy. Ina left this morning as a human?" he asked trying to make sense of the gibberish I was telling him.

"Yes," I said halfway out of breath and plopping myself down at the table where he stood at.

"where did she go?" he asked.

I shrugged my shoulders, "I am uncertain of that, I presumed her original village." I watched as he stood across from me stroking his beard in concentration. "Odus, I am worried for her!" I hollered slamming my fists onto the table.

"Alright, alright calm down. There isn't much we can do son except plan for a war," he explained. "Once the humans find out an elf has been harboring her in elf country, they are going to start war with us as we broke the treaty."

"How should we break it to the King?" I asked throwing my head into my hands with dread.

Odus stood there pondering for a moment more then stepped over towards me placing a wrinkly hand upon my shoulder. "you can leave that to me. I will let the high Elvin know what we have going on, maybe he will be a little fairer with punishment if any."

I grew weary and began to weep in my hands. "What have I done?" I asked mostly to myself feeling sorrowful for the decisions I made. "I should have explained everything to her when she was younger, then she would have understood and still be here."

Odus patted my shoulder in comfort. "what were your feelings towards little Ina?" he asked removing his hand from my shoulder to make his way around the table to the other side. From underneath it he brought up an old book which he dusted off with a mighty blow and began to flip through the pages. I wiped my eyes on the inside of my cloak and watched him rifle through the pages.

I hadn't really thought about my feelings for her. I knew I felt something deep inside, it was kind of like what I would imagine the feeling of fire or something described as warm or soft. "The other night at the spring festival I saw her walking down the stairs and I got this sort of tingle throughout my body. Like cool fresh spring water coursed through my veins. When he eyes met mine, I was afraid. When her hand touched mine, I was weak. That evening, we walked home in silence. Once we made it through the door our bodies collided in passion as if we couldn't get enough of each other. It was tender and slow and I felt something within my soul grow as if she was feeding it gas and it was the fire that burned for her," I stared off into the distance remember our night together. I regained focus of where I was and looked at Odus' face for a reaction. He just stared at me in thought unmoving.

"Alluin, if I'm not mistaken and I'm usually always right, you love that girl," He answered after a moment more of silence.

"I do Odus! I kept denying my feelings for her but I cannot deny them any longer. Everything about her attracts me to her and I can't fight it off. I was an Alther when she needed me to be, her teacher, and now I want to be her lover." I stood up and thrust my fist into my chest where it hurt before slowly lowering myself back to the stool. "But she is gone and I may never see her again."

"You will my boy, she needs time," he continued to flip through the pages of his book before stopping. "Aha! The prophecy claims that when the High Elf and the mage come together, joining our nations together, she or he will have to choose which side they will be on. Meaning, if Ina has the same fiery feelings you have for her she can give up her powers and join you in the Elf world."

"So, she could be an elf forever if she so chooses to?" I asked sitting up feeling a tad better. Odus nodded his head in response. "Maybe there is still hope," I said standing. Maybe I could find you and explain everything to you. my feelings, the prophecy, and maybe there won't be a war. "I must be going now, I give you my full gratitude for all you have done for me, high elder."

"Oh pish, it's nothing. We will get through this Alluin. I shall go speak with the King as soon as the guards are gone from their daily routines," he said with a wave as I slipped out of the door, slipping my cloak on over my head and dashing between door jams back to my house.

I decided to take a detour through the woods, actually more like an early morning field trip. I had to see you and make sure you were alright. The breeze rustled my hair slightly as I hurried past the sticker bushes that had tiny buds growing upon their thin twigs and brushed past the lower bows of the blue spruce before I came to my favorite tree. "Hello old friend," I whispered to it rubbing my hand down it's smooth bark before I swiftly climbed up. I had a perfect view of the village you once came toddling from. Not much had changed in the last couple decades except a few new buildings and more children. They were expanding.

I looked past every couple that was talking and every family carrying grocers back to their home searching for you. "Where are you Ina?" I whispered to myself still scouring the lot. I grew worried that maybe you hadn't made it back to your original home land and I should go and find you. my eyes bounced around from every chocolate haired maiden frantically until, an elderly couple stepped out with you trailing behind them carrying a bucket. Your hair was tied up on top of your head and your face was glowing, a sight I had never seen. You trailed away from the elder couple and wandered towards the stream running through the village. There you dipped the bucket down into the water, lifted it up still dripping and carried it out past your village. I swiftly slid down from my tree and followed you through the woods.

Once you felt you were far enough away from the humans, you set the bucket down, took a few steps away from it, ungloved your right hand and inhaled deeply. With a quick swift of your wrist you flung fire from the palm of your hand towards a bush. You laughed at what you had just done, I stared on in shock as I had never seen such a power come from you. you grabbed the water bucket, walked it over to the bush and splashed some of it onto the flames douching them out.

I stepped closer to the bushes outside on the edge of my world and yours wanting to get closer to you. walking back to where you once stood, you tossed your cloak to the side, un gloved your other hand and forced both of them before you creating a river of fire to flow from the palms of both of your hands. Your hair fell around your face flowing all around you like the fire that flowed before you. the bush ahead was caught up in flames that grew bigger and bigger. You stared on at it for a moment marveling at your creations before wiping your forehead on the back of your arm and walking over with the bucket to put the flames out once more. I took another step forward amazed, stepping onto a twig causing it to crack. "Who's out there?" you said whipping your head around and pulling a dagger from your boot. I froze in my tracks as you inched closer and closer towards where I was standing. "you better show yourself!"

I looked back towards the human village and gulped back the fear I had arising to step out from my hiding spot. "Ina," I began slowly inching towards you as you slowly backed away. for a moment your eyes softened but then you seemed to remember the betrayal between us and held your dagger up once more.

"Stop right there Alluin. What are you doing? You're breaking the law once more," you stated harshly.

I held a hand to my chest and the other out to you in defense, "Please Ina, I don't want war. My people don't want to fight yours. I am sorry for what I did. I should've told you sooner where you came from and I was selfish for not doing so." You slowly lowered your dagger to right beside your hip and stared at me with furrowed eyebrows. The wind around us rustled our hairs causing a tickle against my ears. "Please Little one, let me explain."

"Don't call me that!" you spat throwing your dagger up once more. "You've explained enough. Tell your king to prepare for war. The humans know what you did Alluin. You broke the sacred law and now everyone must pay for it."

"But it doesn't have to be like this Ina. Listen, the prophecy has spoken of a magical being, two magical beings. I don't think you stumbling into the forest was a mistake. It was our destiny to meet. Believe me my dear one, my feelings for you have grown more and more like a seeded flower blooming every day we spent together." I stepped up to your dagger wielding hand and gently ran my fingers along its blade until I reached your hand where I took ahold of your wrist and slowly lowered it to your side. You stared up into my eyes blinking with furrowed brows, I wrapped my other hand around your waist and pulled you towards me. "We are meant to be together little one," I whispered into the breeze.

You reached your free hand up and placed it on my cheek. I closed my eyes and leaned in to your touch which felt soft and natural. I wanted to leave this place with you by my side but the good feeling was cut short as a sharp pain rang from my hip. My eyes shot to yours as you backed away pulling the dagger out of my hip. "Next time it won't be in your hip." You wiped the bloodied dagger on your pants and sprinted off towards the village. I ripped off a piece of my cloak and covered the blood gushing hole with it and began the sprint back home.

Of course, Eastridge had to be gardening at the same moment I needed to sneak into my home. she stood up, waved at me and then grew concerned. "Are you alright?" she hollered as I hurriedly opened door as blood ran down my pants.

"I'm fine, thank you," I said stepping inside and slamming the door just as she was opening up her gate. I tore off my shirt, unclipped the belt around my pants and forced them down to my ankles. From there I rushed to the sink as blood poured down my leg to my bunched-up pants as I began to dab at the wound trying to stop the blood.

"Alluin? Is everything alright? Where's Ina? I see there's blood out here, please let me help" Eastridge muffled voice came from the other side of the door.

"I'm fine Eastridge please. It's just a cut nothing to worry over," I stammered as I dabbed the wash rag around the wound. I winced in pain as the blood continued to pour from it. I couldn't do this alone I needed stitches and as much as I didn't want to admit it, I needed Eastridge's help. "Ugh, one moment." I hurried to my room, kicked off my pants and wrapped a towel around my waist before scuffling back to the door to let her in.

"Oh," she said blushing standing in the doorway.

I rolled my eyes and sighed in frustration, "Are you just going to stand there and gawk or are you going to help me?"

"Right yes," she said flying into the house and slamming the door. "I need a needle and thread," she said looking about herself.

I sat on the chair at the table and used the other to prop up my leg. I held the rag tightly to my hip as I pointed towards Ina's area. "Behind there I believe there is a blue box filled with needles and thread of different colors." She hurried behind the curtain and returned with a needle and white thread.

Lighting a lantern, she held the needle to it for sanitation before seating herself on the chair holding up my leg. 'Where's the gash?" she asked. I removed one side of the towel keeping the other over my manhood exposing the fresh wound as blood still poured from it and onto my floor. "Oh, that's a deep one." she scooted the chair up closer to my hip keeping my leg elevated on her lap and leaned in closer to the gash. "This will hurt, you may want to bite down on something," I grunted and turned my head away closing my eyes to numb out the pain I was feeling from both my leg and my heart as Eastridge pricked the needle into my flesh.

"nrrrrrrrg," I moaned gritting my teeth as she wove the needle in and out of the wound until finally cutting it off.

"There! Good as new! In a few days you should be able to cut the thread out." I removed my leg, tied the towel around my hips again and limped my way back towards my room where I carefully dressed myself.

When I stepped out Eastridge was wiping up the blood that had gotten onto the floor as well as the trail that went from my door to the sink. "You're still here?" I said limping my way back towards the wash basin to toss my clothes in.

"Well you obviously need my help and I don't see Ina anywhere so use me," she said half-jokingly. I filled the sink with cool water and tossed in a few soap cubes and let them soak. The blood began to leave the clothes like a crimson trail. "Where is Ina anyways? Is she alright?" she asked walking over to the wash basin and tossing in the blood-stained rags.

I pushed air through my teeth. "Ina is fine-," I was cut off by a loud knock upon my door and a gruff voice.

"Alluin, this is the Elvin guards of King Balnik. Your presence is requested at once," the gruff voice came from the other side of the door.

"Great," I grumbled stepping away from the basin to walk to the door.

"What's going on?" Eastridge asked in a frantic concerned voice.

I opened the door to three guards standing before me. "Gentlemen," I greeted stepping out with Eastridge following behind. We began towards the pathway leading through the town, "Go home Eastridge, this doesn't concern you," I stated looking ahead following the two guards with one trailing behind.

The village whispered amongst themselves as we made our way to the castle. It wasn't every day that one of its people were taken by guards to meet King Alagaard. "Right this way," one of them motioned opening the door to a small dimly lit room. My mind was racing with judgements. Had Odus spoke with the king and warn him of the dangers to come?

When my eyes adjusted to the lighting I could see that Odus was standing next to me with is one hand behind his back and his other grasping his cane. "Odus? What's going on?" I whispered as the guards shut the door leaving us alone.

"King Alagaard wants to speak with us about Ina," he whispered back without making eye contact.

A door before us opened and in walked Alagaard. "Gentlemen," he said stepping towards us only to stop short of a few feet from us.

"Your highness," Odus and I responded in unison bowing before the king.

"We have some serious business to discuss," he began looking in my direction. "Odus tells me I should prepare my men for war?" he said glancing at Odus then back to me, "why is that Alluin?"

I clasped my hands together behind my back and stood tall preparing to talk, "You see your highness, when I brought Ina into our lands she was just a child, a human child that is. I asked Odus to help me conceal her true identity from the other elves in our lands by feeding her magic shape shifting berries which caused her to grow ears like an elf. It worked, I then came to you to ask for your permission to allow me to foster Ina until we found her nonexistent parents."

"So you sent my men on a random goose chase for parents that never existed?" He said sternly.

"Yes your highness, and I apologize for that. Ina's family had died years before I found her. She was then passed along from home to home in her village. People were dying, whoever took care of her would pass away from sickness. Soon the villagers realized she was more of a nuisance and cast her away. I watched her wander around, sleeping in a barn, being fed little to no food before I decided to cross over and rescue her," I stopped talking to see if he wanted me to continue.

"I see. Odus tells me she is the one the prophecy foretells. The one to bring our nation and theirs together. How?" he asked pacing around before us.

"She has the power to emit and bend fire with her hands. I've seen her use it. It's controlling and everyday it grows stronger. She can and will burn down Mulheim if she is not stopped!" I urged.

"How do you suppose we do that?" Alagaard asked. Odus whipped his head back and forth between us looking for the answer.

"That I do not know," I said slumping my shoulders. I knew everything about you except the one thing we needed most, how to prevent a war.

Alagaard stood in silence stroking his chin deep in thought. "Well men, we shall prepare for war then. I will have my guards run the perimeter around the forest's edge at all hours of the day. I appreciate you reporting this to me Odus and Alluin. You are dismissed."

Odus and I turned to head out of the poorly lit room. Placing my arm up under his caned one I helped him hobble up the stairs, our footsteps echoing through the corridor with each step we took against the cobblestone. "Hey Odus?"

"Hmm?" he mumbled concentrating on his footing.

"Thanks' for everything. You risked your life for a human girl you didn't even know," I said my voice echoing off the walls. We hit the top of the stairs and hobbled out the door. it had grown dark and silent of activity.

"You know son, I believe in you. I believe you have what it takes to end this war between our kind and theirs. I helped you then and I will continue to help you still until I physically or mentally can't help you anymore," he responded as he continued his walk home. I trailed next to him taking my time.

"I have another question," I spoke breaking the silence growing between us.

"What's that my boy?" he asked glancing up at me as he hobbled towards his door and stopping short of the old rust ridden knob.

"What does the prophecy say about the other mythical being? You know the High Elvin Lord?" I scuffled my feet across the ground kicking a stone a few feet away.

"Hmm, you know what, I haven't read a single book that stated anything about it." He looked up at me as I glared towards the ground trying to distract myself. "It could be because no one knows much about him or who he is supposed to be." I looked up at his tired eyes and watched as he pushed open his door and slid around it. "Get some rest now son, tomorrow is a new day." he said closing his door behind him.

I limped my way back towards my home at the end of the cobblestone pathway. My hip was hurting fairly bad and I couldn't wait to get home to put my feet up. It was going to be different now that you weren't here with me. when I reached my yard I noticed my once blood soaked clothes were now clean and hanging on a line, swaying with the slight evening breeze. I grunted and headed for my door when Eastridge came walking my way. "Hey! How are you feeling tonight?" she asked all too cheerfully.

"Like I need some rest," I grumbled pushing past my door. she followed me of course and stood watching as I lit a few oil lamps and placed them in various places throughout the home. "Look Eastridge I'm sorry for the way I treated you the other night at the festival," I began.

"Pshh, I'm over that already. I get it," she began. She seated her self at the table. I sat myself down opposite side of her and stretched my leg out grimacing from the pain.

Eastridge smiled at me probably thinking of her handy work with the needle and thread or maybe thinking about how she saw me mostly nude. "Eastridge, I appreciate all that you have done for me today but, you don't need to be here to take care of me. I am perfectly capable of doing that myself." I said grunting and standing up.

"Nonsense, I want to help you," she mentioned standing up to follow me to the main room. I plopped myself down onto the chair you used to sit in and watch Eastridge daintily perch herself upon mine.

"No seriously, I think I need to be alone for a while. A lot has happened to Ina and I in the last sunrise and fall and all I want to do is be alone," I furrowed my brows and stared at the dark empty fireplace. It once held your flames and I was missing them tonight.

"Oh," Eastridge began, standing from her seat and backing out of the room. "I'll see you tomorrow I guess." I waved a hand at her unmoving from my chair.

Once I heard the door click I forced myself out of the chair and went to my room, dimming all but one oil lamp to light the way to my room. My home felt like my heart, dark and empty. Placing the oil lamp on the stool in my room I pushed my pants down my hips and looked at my wound. Touching it I winced in pain. I didn't blame you for stabbing me, you had asked me to leave and I didn't. I pulled my pants back on, laid down completely and covered my face with my pillow. "WHY!?" I growled into it. Tears streamed down the side of my face as I hugged my pillow to my chest and rolled to my good side. I sobbed into it until I passed out from exhaustion.

I had slept terribly that night and was woken to a lot of banging on my door. groggily I pulled on some pants and scuffled my way over towards the door to find Eastridge banging upon it. I opened it and squinted my eyes into the bright spring sunlight. "Good morning Eastridge," I began as she pushed past me into the kitchen.

"What is going on!?" she asked frantically waving her arms above her head.

Shutting the door I limped my way to the counter where I began to prepare water for some tea. Eastridge walked over and took the kettle from me and hastily filled it up, walked over to the fire, started it and strung the kettle along the line above the growing flames. I had seated myself and was rubbing my forehead with my hand rested into it when she came to seat herself across from my. "Now, you are going to tell me what in the world is going on in Mulheim," she demanded.

I sighed, removed my head from my hand and kinked my neck to the side. "Ina was never an elf," I began. "long ago, I found her wandering her village alone with no one around to stop her from eventually wandering into the Mulheim forest." Eastridge gasped and furrowed her eyebrows trying to make sense of it all. "she was filthy and hungry and the humans cast her out of their homes where she stayed in a barn and ate scraps. I desired to help this poor little creature so I took her in. but in order to do that and keep her identity unknown to the Elves I had Odus create a berry that would change her into an elf. She eventually stopped taking them and ended up returning back to her natural human form."

Eastridge sat there unblinking and looking into the distance. "That is unbelievable," She started. "So now we are at war for your careless selfish actions."

I slapped my hands on my thighs, "call it what it is. Ina is a magical being that can emit fire from the palms of her hands and produce memories and transport them to another being, she isn't like any human I have seen before. The prophecy foretells of such a being and I believe she is the one sent to bring peace to our worlds."

"But you brought a human into our world, how could you be so careless?" she asked. She was right, I was careless, but I believe I did it for a good reason. Of course she would never understand that. "And let's not forget you even kissed a human," she mentioned dragging this on.

"Eastridge, I know. But how could you understand the attraction I have for her? She isn't even human. I can't help that I find myself being pulled towards her. Maybe its destiny," I mumbled staring away from Eastridge. The kettle began to boil and I stood up, walked over to grab it and pour us some tea. "I have a lot I have to do today. King Alagaard wants me at front when we go to war so I must prepare myself," I said sipping the tea's hot contents.

She didn't say much to which she gulped her cup of tea and then scurried out my door. I hurried around the house grabbing my dagger, my dusty bow and arrows, threw on my cloak and headed out the door. I was going to see you every chance I had; I wanted to make sure you were growing into your new home.

Once I reached the edge of the forest I found my tree and climbed up it. It was a crisp morning, mist lay across the mountains harboring the duns rays. I sat upon my branch and began to run a cloth along the string and the limb ridding it of dust. I kept an eye on your village, watching for signs of you exiting from your home. Before long, you came out dressed all in warrior clothes, wearing your leather gloves and heading towards the fields. I sat up and decided to jump through the branches of the trees to stay hidden from you.

Once at the field, you set down your bucket of water, removed your gloves and looked at your hands, turning them over and back in front of your eyes, as if you had never seen them before. Your long hair moved with the gentle breeze as you closed your eyes to inhale slowly lowering your hands to your side. I watched as you released the pent up air in your lungs, stomped your foot onto the ground and with full force, shoved your hands out in front of you creating a wave of fire. my eyes widened with shock as I had never seen such a force emit from your hands. You moved your hands, together at the wrists, in a circle as you caught everything on fire. Your powers have grown since you left the Mulheim forest. I grew scared as the trees around you caught fire and burned. Once you sought fit to all the flames around you, you lifted up an arm and closed your fist choking the flames causing them to go out. I wanted so desperately to climb down from my hiding spot and beg you to return and end this war but I was afraid of what you might do.

Below me, an Elvin guard was walking the boundary of the forest when you looked over in his direction. I squatted lower on my branch hoping I wouldn't be seen. You casually walked over to the edge of your land and nodded your head at the guard. "Tell your people was will begin at the sight of the dry season," You said in a shallow voice. "There will never be peace between our people."

The Elvin guard bobbed his head in response and turned to head back into the village. No peace? How could you be so cruel and heartless over me taking you in. I was protecting you by not exposing your true identity. Even still as you stood here producing anarchy in your fields, I wanted nothing more than to be with you. It was as if you were the flower shaking your perfect velvet petals in the breeze inviting me, the bee, to drink form your nectar.

After observing you for a few more minutes, I clambered from my perch and headed deeper into the forest. Climbing over collapsed trees and pushing past bushes I made my way to a clearing where the meadow was tall and tickled by the breeze. I withdrew my bow and arrows, put my sights on the nearby tree, drew the arrow back and let go. It missed the tree by a few feet but I didn't give up, instead I grabbed another arrow, pulled again and released it only to miss once again. I griped and sauntered over to repossess my arrows before walking back to my spot as before and try once again. By the sixth time of shooting I was finally able to make it to the tree. I prided myself, waltzed over to the tree to recover my arrows and plucked them out of the soil and the tree. "I need more training," I thought to myself. I wasn't about to give up.

After a few more good shots I was contented and headed home just as the sun began to set over the highlands. The air was crisp as it thrashed my hair around my face tickling my nose. I loathed going home alone particularly since Eastridge has been clingy.

I strode through my door, tossed my equipment to the side, and seized a kettle full of water to heat over the fire. just was I sparked a flame, there was a knock upon my door. I solemnly walked over to answer it. I peeked up at the sky as the sun transformed the clouds into pink balls of cotton beneath its twilight rays. I questioned what you were up to at this period of evening and even considered sneaking out to find out for myself. "Hello Alluin," she said sweeping past me to set a bulky pot on the cooktop. "I've brought food, rabbit stew."

"Um, thanks a lot," I mumbled closing the door and walking over to seize two bowls.

"I can get it," she said pushing me aside and taking the bowls from my hands to set on the counter. I grew slightly aggravated by her actions as I forced myself to control my lips and sit at the table to await for her to transport my meal. "Here you go," she said placing a bowl in front of me and then taking the other chair across from me.

I took a portion of the stew and placed it into my mouth. It was rather cooled and tasteless, as all of her food was. "you know, you don't have to keep doing this Eastridge," I mentioned placing my spoon beside my bowl and catching her in mid bite.

"I know, I just love doing it. Besides, I am sure you're used to having your meals made for you," she mentioned placing the spoon into her mouth and closing her tight lips around it only to slowly pull it away.

"I am positive that out of my many years of existing, having someone cook for me for about five of those years isn't going to set me back," I alleged coldly sitting back in my seat and placing my fists on the table.

Eastridge stretched across the small table and positioned her hand on mine and began to rub it. I grew annoyed by this action and slid my hand out from under hers. "I care about you Alluin. I always have. I need to be here for you," she whispered the last part.

"I care about you as well Eastridge, in a friendly kind of way," she seemed taken aback by my punitive words which I didn't care. This woman was demanding herself into my life so hard that it was becoming disgusting. "what I am trying to say is, I am OK. I have a lot to prepare myself for and I wish it was easy for me to elucidate myself but I don't even recognize it."

"Can't you at least try?" she continued on. I knew she wasn't going to leave this be as she was persistent.

"I can't Eastridge," I whispered standing up suddenly, knocking over the chair with my haste. "I have to get Ina back. She is in trouble. We are all in trouble. The forest is in danger. Ina is a enchanted being chosen thousands of years ago and reborn to bring peace between our land and the humans'. I am tied to her, bound by destiny. At first I was her caregiver, then it turned into more than that and no matter how hard I try it feel this pull to her and the further away she goes the more I desire to go with her!" I was pacing around the kitchen when I stopped to look at Eastridge's inclusive eyes.

"Wow, that is a lot to take in," she began. I removed myself from the table, took my bowl to the counter and placed it next to the pot. It was silent as I assume Eastridge was contemplating all that I had told her. I heard her spoon clunk against the wooden bowl and turned to see her standing behind me. "Can't you move on from her?"

I was dumb founded. Was she really that persistent? I glared at her in frustration and sighed, "I think I shall retire. I have an early day tomorrow and the more rest I can get the better," I mumbled. She grabbed her pot and exited from my home. I really needed to figure out a way to keep her from getting inside or rather I need to stop being home. I tore down the curtain that had given me privacy and plopped down onto my bed. When was this going to get easier? I felt as if acid was eating me from the inside as I burned with the pain of you not being here. I rolled over to face out towards your side of the room and determined I wanted to look about.

I stood and walked over towards the curtain surrounding your room and peeked around it. Everything was as you left it. I walked in and sat upon your bed and sighed. This was the saddest I had ever felt in years. The little figurines we had whittled together when you were about eight sat covered in a thin coat of dust upon your chest. little nick-knacks were placed precariously around the window seal and on shelves upon the wall. We were happy growing together, you changed me.

Sulking back to my bed I laid down and began to cry softly into my pillow tiering myself out and eventually drifting to sleep. I woke as the sun poked it's glorious rays through the trees and into my window, dressed myself quickly, grabbed my gear and headed out the door. Eastridge was seated at her table sipping tea while I slipped out of mine unnoticed. I threw on my cloak and headed for the edge of the forest to sit perched in my tree. The humans were just beginning to wake up and hustle around their village while I watched and waited for you to emerge from your home.

I grabbed a portion of desiccated bread from my satchel and began to munch down on it. The guard below me did his usual rounds as I sat motionless in my tree. The tiny buds began to form on the branches as small insects flew by. The air was honied but warm as I took in a deep breath. Glancing down at your home you emerged from the door carrying your cloak. You stopped to take in the scenes before you of your village busy working before throwing on your cloak and heading for the fields. I ascended from my perch and slowly began to follow you through the shrubberies being sure to stay on my side of the forest.

You withdrew your hood and patted your hair down. It was done differently today, twisted at the tips in a sort of swirl and laid nicely against your back. You looked stunning. I crept closer to the edge keeping my eyes on your slender body. You seemed frustrated by the way you furrowed your eyebrows together. drawing your hands inward you created a fiery orb that began to grow by pulling your hands slowly away. You grunted and fastened your feet deeper into the soft earth pushing grass as your feet slid on top of the mushy mud.

Fear rose in me, not for myself but for you as the orb grew and grew. Perspiration began to drip down your temples and your hair thrashed around your face. I crept closer becoming frightened as to what you were trying to do. "Stop," I whispered to myself as the orb grew and grew until you lost control of it and it shot you high into the air landing you firm on the ground. You didn't move and in a panic I ran out to you unthinking. "Ina!" I shouted as I slid to your side. I lifted your head in my arms and felt your pulse which was faint but still there. I brushed your hair aside from your forehead and wiped the sweat away from your face and stared down at you. I lifted your hand to my cheek and saw the memories you had of you failing at your fire orb trick. Why did you want me to see this?

Off in the distance I heard a call for your name. I swiftly ran back to the bushes where no one would see me and observed as a couple came running out of the clearing to your side. You sat up, grabbed your head and raised your feet. "We heard an explosion, are you alright?" the male asked placing a hand on your shoulder.

"I believe so," you responded grabbing at your head again.

"What on earth happened?" the female asked reaching for your other hand.

"I am uncertain, I don't remember," you responded looking around yourself. I jeopardized my life for you and I would do it again to make sure you stayed safe. The couple didn't leave your side even as you brushed their hands away and stepped towards the woods' edge. I scooted back every so carefully into the thicker parts of the brush and watched as you gazed upon the bushes and branches. "it was as if someone or something saved me," you whispered to yourself.

"What was the dearie?" the lady said walking over towards you gazing out.

You shook your head, turned towards her and smiled, "It's nothing. I am fine." You began the trek back towards the village taking one last glance in my direction before disappearing from sight.

I stood frozen in my place for a moment, thinking about you in my arms. It felt natural, it felt amazing. The magnetic pull was finally at peace and when I left, it pulled even harder. We needed to be together Ina, I wished you would see that. I sulked my way through the forest to my original clearing where I began to practice my archery. After a few great shots and a couple terrible ones I prided myself. Right as I was about to take another shot a rustling sound happened behind me. I whirled around with my bow still drawn to see Odus slowly making his way through the brushes and getting angry at the fact they were tangling in his robes. "Put that thing away," he hollered yanking his robes from the prickles.

I lowered my bow and hooked it over my shoulder and hustled over to help him through the tangles. "Here, let me help you," I mentioned yanking his robes from the thickets.

"Ah thanks my boy," he walked a few feet ahead of me looking from right to left and then back again. "This is a mighty fine place you've found."

I sprinted over to him, "it is. What brings you here?" I asked sitting myself upon the grass and looking up at him, squinting against the sunlight.

"I have been doing research to figure out what your role in all this partakes and I have found some important writings that talk about you," Odus said slowly lowering his body to the ground with a grunt.

"What is that?" I asked intrigued to learn what her had found.

"They call you the memory seeker. You are the reason Ina cannot remember anything from her past," he began stroking his long white beard. I nodded in thought thinking about what he meant exactly. "Whenever Ina touches your face, she transfers her memories to you, particularly her bad ones, for you to keep for her."

"Really?" I said in thought. That would clarify so much about the recent events. "How do I get her to remember?"

The old man sat there in puzzlement, "that I am uncertain of. I did hours upon hours this past week searching for the answers to all the questions we would have and came up with nothing. It seems the prophecy didn't think this through," he joked. I laid back on the gras as it swayed in the gentle breeze. Everything was starting to make sense. "The only confusing part was that we have to go through with this war. In order for Ina to feel secure and at peace with herself we will have to go through with this war. Many lives will be lost, and most of the forest will burn but it will be your bravery that will save us."

It was going to be a rough task but I knew I had to take it and I would succeed. Odus leaned back and glanced up at the sky. "I do believe the summer season will be upon us sooner than we think," he said as softly as the breeze. I grunted in agreeance. "I have concocted a device that will assist in protecting you from Ina's fire. The blueprints are drawn up and on my desk waiting for us to begin making them, I have the crystals we need and all other supplies," he clarified.

"What device is that?" I inquired standing up to stride over and help him stand.

"Gloves with ice crystals emitted into them," he elucidated. "The most powerful ice crystals I could find way up in the depths of the highlands in the Mulheim forest."

I hooked his arm in mine and began the trek back to town. "if these scriptures are true, then how am I supposed to lead the whole forest of elves into battle?"

"I am uncertain of that. I feel this is something that needs to be brought to King Alagaard, and how we do that I do not know either," Odus chuckled clinging to my arm as we shuffled through town.

Eastridge was out in her garden when we scuffled by, she stopped to wave at us which of course Odus smiled and hollered good afternoon to her. I gave a halfhearted wave and pressed on determined to get Odus home.

He pushed his door open and we slid inside with me trailing behind. He shuffled off towards his table and opened his book. I lowered my bow and arrows to the side of me and seated myself at the table to examine the book. "These are the plans here?" I said reaching over to slide the book in my direction.

"Yes and these are all the resources needed," he stated sliding a basket over towards me filled with gloves, a handkerchief cradling the ice crystals and some herbs.

"How is all of this supposed to fit together? I mean what are these herbs? And are these regular leather gloves?" I asked rummaging through the basket to examine its contents.

He seized the basket from me as if I offended him. "With magic you naive young elf." He scuffled over to a shelf and turned around with a jar in hand which had the contents of what looked to me something shimmery. "This is old magic, passed down from generation to generation only to be used in a time of dire need," he explained. "and well this is a dire time indeed.

He placed the contents on the table one by one, and began to uncork the lids to the jars and empty them onto a leather piece. With his old, knobby fingers he began to pick pieces of each ingredient and place them in a bowl where he molded them together, grinding them to a dust. With is monocle a rather tiny chisel and pick axe he took a piece from the stone and placed it within the other ingredients, grinding them as well. With the gloves he placed them side by side and sprinkled the dust over each one, causing them to glow an ominous blue and then turn back to normal. "Here," he started, " try these on and tell me how they feel."

I stretched across the table and slid the soft leather over my hands. It caressed me with a cool and tingly impression as I closed my eyes to relish the sensation. "How do they fit?" my thoughts were interrupted.

I gradually opened my eyes and glimpsed towards Odus. "they fit snug I guess. I am uncertain how I am supposed to feel." I replied turning my hands over and over admiring them.

"It's not a feeling my boy, it's a power!" he shouted while scampering over towards the fire pit, pouring a liquid over it and lighting a match which he threw into the logs catching them a flame. "Come here son, I want you to test out my creation." I reared up from my seat and sauntered over to where Odus stood hunched over the fire place. He indicated with his hand for me to step closer. "Now, reach inside and grab a flame. Don't be afraid for you are stronger than it."

I was hesitant for a moment but with squinted eyes I reached one gloved hand in and grabbed the flickering flames. It felt as if nothing was in my but something was in my hand at the same time. I pulled the flame closer and turned it over and over in each of hands before disposing of it back into the pit. "Ho ho! They work! These will protect you from Ina's fire during the war," exclaimed Odus. I wish I could relish the same excitement this elder had, but I just couldn't bring myself to it. I didn't want this war to happen I wanted Ina home safe with me. I nodded my head and gave a halfhearted smile leaning away from the flame and Odus.

I removed the gloves, placed them inside the velvety satchel Odus provided me with and headed out the door. I felt melancholy these days not wanting to visit with kinfolk. As I moseyed down the pebble ridden path to my home the rain began to pelt my head. I threw on my cloak and hurried on to my house, glancing behind me to see if Eastridge caught a sight of my coming before pushing my way inside.

I threw myself onto the chair with the cloak still draped around my body and groaned. The flameless pit before me sat dusky and taciturn like my heart. I desired for your touch, your soft elegant skin against mine as we tangled in a fury before the glowing flames. I felt ashamed thinking of you like this in a time so dark but I couldn't help it. You, Ina ignited something inside me that I had not once felt before.

I sauntered to my room where I hung up my cloak on the coat rack, undressed and laid, half naked with the pillow against my bare chest. staring up into the darkness I let sleep consume me. I had a restless night and woke up dreading it. In a few more days we would be at war with you Ina and I feared it even more. I sat up in my disheveled bed and slowly pulled on my pants over my pale skin. My hair was a rats nest so I combed it out with the brush sitting on the nightstand next to my bed. Closing my eyes and dragging the brush through my long white hair a few times before I stopped and sighed.

I walked over to the wash bin and filled up the kettle and turned to walk towards the fire when a knock at the door happened. Without much thought I shuffled my way over to the door and opened it wide. "Oh, uh, good morning Alluin," came Eastridge's small voice. I glanced down at her blushing face wondering why she was acting flustered. Then I remembered my bare chest and sighed, of course she would get all hot and bothered by my presence.

"You can come in, I will be a moment," I grumbled turning to make my way back in and leaving her in the kitchen while I went to find a shirt. Sighing heavily as I pulled it over my head and walking into the kitchen where Eastridge had made herself busy building the fire for the kettle.

"I thought I would help you prepare for the coming war," she trilled standing up and dusting off her hands on her apron.

"I am no need of your help Eastridge. Really, I would rather be alone for now." I grumbled as I walked to the kitchen to get down a cup. She could help herself, she always had in the past. I seated myself at the table and slumped down.

"You mean until Ina is back. You want to be alone until Ina is back." I could sense the sad truth in her words.

"I am unsure if she will ever come back. She appears to have forgotten everything I have ever done for her and her feelings she has for me," I responded coldly gazing into my cup as if something might appear. When the whistle from the kettle sounded, I surveyed as Eastridge flew from her seat across from me and ran over. Using her apron to grab the scalding hot iron which she carried back towards me and set it on the table. She then waltzed over to the cupboards where she grabbed herself a cup and two teabags placing one in my cup. I grabbed the kettle and poured myself some water before handing it off to her.

I sipped my tea and stared off into oblivion. I tried to disregard the infuriating sound of Eastridge clearing her throat frequently after every sip as if a drop or two of tea was left inside her gullet. "I need to rest," I stated finally, placing my cup crudely on the table. It made her jump but I wasn't troubled.

"Oh, I see." There was a minute pause where she exhaled profoundly before continuing. "What happened to you Alluin? A darkness has overcome you and it scares me. I fear for you."

I scowled at her and moaned with frustration. She couldn't comprehend what it feels to have the one your soul yearns for, leave you in an angry ferocity starting a war between your world and hers. "My soul has gone into a dark place. I fear for Ina's life as she has yet to control her powers."

"But she can learn to can't she?" She went on. I could tell she wanted nothing more than to stay here with me. she's like the Adda I never wanted.

I stood up, stretched and brought my empty cup to the sink and leaned in with each hand on the sides of the basin. "It's not that simple," I whispered, closing my eyes to calm the anger arising inside of me.

A hush cultivated in the house like morning autumn haze. I paced back to my room where I seized my bow and arrow. Eastridge took the clue that I wanted her to leave, picking up her cup and discarding the rest of it's contents into the basin and heading out the door. I grabbed my cloak and sauntered into the woods heading towards my preferred tree to see if I may find sight of you.

The breeze was warm and thick as it rustled through the newly sprouted leaves. I climbed to the thicker parts of the tree and hid amongst the branches looking for sight of you. All were busy below scurrying about their homes hustling from one door to the next. I spotted you with your long chocolate hair flowing in the breeze handing out swords to the men standing before you. I leaned in closer trying to catch sight of your facial expression.

You looked determined and focused whereas the men surrounding you were gazing at your slender beauty and even elbowing each other in the ribs to whisper in one another's ears. "Men, please stay focused!" you hollered glaring at the group of them. I smiled in spite of myself watching you walk back and forth the line. "We have a war to prepare for and I want you limbered and at your best," you said making a stretching motion with your arms.

After you dispersed the group you glanced up towards my direction as if looking for something. Was it me? did you have a memory of me? I held my breath as my heart pounded away in my chest as I hid in the thick branches of my tree. I had fear you might have spotted me but you quickly turned your head away as if nothing and walked back into the barn.

A few more minutes passed of me waiting and I knew you weren't coming back out. I nimbly jumped from the tree and walked to the clearing up a steep hill to practice my shooting. I was determined to get to you and I would kill anyone that came in my way or tried to protect you.

I took out an arrow and shot it towards a tree hitting it right where I aimed. I hastily took out another and flung it with full force causing it to hit the same arrow right down the center of the first arrow. I could feel the lump arise in my throat as I took out a third arrow and launched it at the tree aiming a little bit higher than the first two. The first tear fell from my eye and then another causing my vision to blur. I fell to my knees and smashed my fists into the moist soil. I bellowed at floor as if it was the culprit to all my occurrences. The breeze tickled the droplets that fell down my face, blowing them onto the earth beneath me as she soaked it in.

I sat there feeling weak and defeated yet no war had happened physically. The war inside my head was raging; should I just let you go and be with your kind or should I win you back? I wish I knew the answer to my own riddle but only time would fix that. I needed to fight for you and get you to remember all that you had forgotten. I needed you to remember me.

I dug my fingers into the fresh wet earth in frustration and launched myself off the ground. I ran towards the tree and grabbed my arrows before punching the hole they had left. The rain picked up as the wind began to howl amongst the trees. I packed away my arrows and made the trek back down the hillside. The wind whipped my silvery hair around my face, sticking it to places where rain ran down my pale skin. I didn't bother to place my cloak over my head I didn't care anymore.

Eastridge caught sight of me making the bound over the gate and tried to stop me with one of her friendly hellos. Ignoring her I pushed through my door, slamming it shut and tossing my gear to the side. I didn't want to be in my home, not without you.