Chap 9 Liz Sherman's Forgiveness

Nuada

It was a peaceful oblivion. I smiled, stirring in the soft bed. Every pain was gone. Thank you goddess. My forehead was touched by a gentle finger. "Brother. You've slept most of the day."

I laughed. "Much better." I stretched and sat up. "How long must I sleep?"

She touched her fingers to my hand. We had not connected for so long. Flower of amor for me. I hoped she could understand my own affection for her.

"About two months for a full recovery." Nuala hugged me tight. I gasped. Ouch my ribs. "Today you need to stay here."

"I don't wish to. I cannot become a cripple." My view did not spin as I lifted my head.

I swung my legs to the floor and rose. She supported me. Satisfied I could still walk, I returned to lie down after a bath. The paranormal book was intriguing.

Liz Sherman turned up next. She asked cordially, "How are you today?"

"Not bad. Sit down." I returned her the book.

"Nuada, hope you'll get better soon. There's a phone here you can use." I nodded as she showed me how. Laira and Joe wanted to talk to me. "Comes with all the privileges. Here's their number."

"Ok." Liz Sherman looked around my room. The window was open, yet curtained so that I could enjoy sunshine. I disliked the aircon. Liz seemed different today, not as talkative.

But I was fine with the silence.

"What do you like doing? When you go out." she asked at length.

"Riding and nature." Yearning for the verdant lands of my home…

"Oh. Cool. I like those too. "

I sat up a little more, ignoring the aching in my back. "Has Salem returned? I need more of his magic."

"Which is he?" I described him. "Oh that one. Nope. I'll ask him to come in. It still hurts doesn't it?"

I smiled. Unlike the fish, her concern was more genuine. "Thank you. I am sorry how I almost hurt your friend. Boyfriend." When I last came to this place, I used my spear on Hellboy. His heart was pierced. This was the nightmare that kept replaying among the ones where I committed genocide.

Liz's eyes widened. "You remember all of it? Isn't this a new life?"

"Bits and pieces. It is a new life, which hopefully will turn out more… fruitful." I admitted. I could not yet bring myself to voice out that she would make a good ally.

"I got you a get well present. Um, for the outdoors kind of scent… Want to go out sometime? I like green areas."

"I will." It was a scented box of yellow and orange leaves.

The phone. I pressed all the numbers. It was so complex. A music tone followed by ringing. Then someone picked up. "Hi Joe here." His voice was funny.

"I am Nuada," I replied.

"Hey man! You figured how to use the phone. Congrats."

I laughed softly. "Yes. It is difficult. If you come personally would be better."

Strangely, I wanted their company. It was nice in their house. Now that my twin had a date, things would be different. I want private time with her, but that fish will get in my way.

He had so much to say. I just replied simply.

"Oh wanna talk to sis? She's out from the shower."

"All right." A sound of rattling, then my friend spoke. "Hello halfling. Liz came and gave me a gift. When will you come?"

"Night… You're more awake then. Does it still hurt?"

It smarted but I did not want her to worry. "Not that much. I managed to eat something. But now I am not hungry."

"Elves don't need much? You have such a small appetite. How to get better?"

"Yes elves don't. I will be well."

Laira

I liked hearing from him. Not face to face could not tell if he was in pain. He sounded exuberant. And we are friends, I reminded myself for the millionth time. With an elf royalty! Looks like Nuada will always know me as the halfling. Darn. When was I going to tell him about the wedding? But didn't seem the right time. Provoked, the volatile prince could hurt the aqua guy and even have a worse relapse.

Nuada said sincerely, "I'm ready to return your things. Will you come tonight then?"

I couldn't wait.

The elf prince was seated in a chair reading the Golden Compass. (I recognize the cover) Back facing the door. A small light shone. The room was wide, on the other end were a plasma tv, cupboard, stand and more equipment. Abe said he had played some music for him. So were they truly friends?

I was silent and tried to creep up but he still knew immediately. "Goodnight, why are you sneaking around?"

"Trying to scare you." I took his warm right hand and kissed his cheek.

He yawned.

"How long have you stayed up?" I noticed the scimitars and daggers in a bunch on the table.

"1 hour." He rose gracefully, holding the book. "You can take them back. Thank you."

"Want to keep one?"

Nuada sighed. He looked vexed. "No use. I'm supposed to be a civilian. Look at how they react when I wield one."

I urged him to get back in bed. I bounced on it. "Ooh feels real soft." Nuada smiled and lay down. I wish my hair wouldn't be tangled when I got up. What I will give to be elf!

"Nuada, can I ask?"

"Go ahead, please."

"Does it mean we are relatives? Since I'm a halfling."

He took some time to answer, his hand secretly in my palm with the sigil. It smarted less.

"I haven't a clue. I will research and let you know. It's nice you want to be one of us."

I looked at Nuada's pale face, the ritual scar. Why did he choose to have it on his face? It marred his otherwise austere features. Did he know of the dark elves, or is he himself a version of dark elf? My favorite elf is Drizzt Do'urden who stands up to his wicked family and escapes to the surface. Much to fathom about elves and their customs. He had closed his eyes.

"Why are you so quiet?" Nuada spoke.

"You need rest. Don't think you like a girl who chatters too much. What kind of girl is your ideal- mate?"

He chuckled and shifted, his eyes still shut. "I like a girl who won't try to be a heroine, but she has to be loyal, funny and- I don't know- noble? It's all right for her to chat."

I projected an image of Drizzt Ever seen him? He's a drow.

Him?Who is he? I have heard of drow. They are rare on the surface.

Perhaps in your experience, drow have lighter coloring? I felt hopeful. ' He's a fictional character from The Dark Elf trilogy- homeland, exile and sojourn.'

"He sounds like me. Why was he exiled?" Nuada listened attentively and captivated as I summarized the story. When I finished, he said, "Yes a just cause. But to your question, I have never seen or witnessed a drow on the surface. We stick to our own kind."

He asked me to read some more of the Golden compass. You are a very kind person. I wish I can repay you somehow. What do you most desire?

"Why use your mental power to speak?" A complete family. More security and assurance.

I like to. You are curious about this scar on my face. He replied.

"Oh you sensed me. I don't mean to be rude. It is your private business."

The ambers flashed. I startled. "Because I did not want to be a decorative figurehead of a prince. Looking good is not part of my ideal, and we are all born different. Some of us are vain creatures."

"Even among elves?"

"Yes." He paused and blinked. His golden eyes unfocused for a bit. "It is more important for one to not be empty inside. Many humans are born empty hollow creatures." I sighed.

Man not that speech again. "Are you all right?"

I took his palm to let him know how vexed I felt that he still ruminated that topic. Nuada shook his head. I am not an entertainer. "What of the healing waters? I'm thirsty for it."

"Nope. Has your sis come in yet?" I glanced to the outside. Someone was coming. Nuada nodded.

"Earlier on. Is it late? Want to go home?" he asked. He seemed quite sad. I couldn't sense his exact mood.

I smiled. "I think I'll stay here. Can I sleep beside you?"

Nuada frowned. Then he relaxed. "Very well." With that tone, it usually showed displeasure but tonight it was mild. "Did you tell Joe?"

He insisted that I call my brother. So I did and we took turns to read the novel, until we were both sleepy. The prince was monotonous at first, but when he reached the characters' souls, he was so animated. He used a softer tone for the rabbit, and his deep voice for the polar bear.

I awoke some time in the a.m. Nuada was not in my arms, like in my dream. He had turned his back, leaving me alone. Some of his golden hair tickled my and the blanket was mostly on his side. "Hey."

The elf didn't answer, only snoring. I gingerly pressed my watch: 5am. The light was not too bright so he did not awaken. I scooted closer to my friend and closed my eyes. He turned at this moment. Now Nuada was facing me. He breathed on my cheek.

It got real warm. Must be day already, aww. Nuada had left when I slept and covered me with the blanket. I kicked it off and stretched.

"Morning. Why've you taken my brother's bed?" Nuala greeted me. She had a very wide smile.

I shrugged. Pleasant bedtime, he had given me enough space, didn't kick me. His snoring was not too loud either. "Where's he? Eating breakfast?"

"I just had a bath. Smell better?" Nuada answered. His blond hair was wet. Nuada dried himself with his uninjured hand.

The female elf started unwrapping the plastic around his left cast. The ends of his hair became more blond with the dampness. I leaned back on the pillow and laughed.

"You're so cute!"

Nuada flexed his weaker hand's fingers and observed the cast. "Are you hungry brother? You only had a little food yesterday."

He shook his head. "No. I will afterwards."

Nuala hugged him for awhile. They were relishing the contact. I fell back asleep to give them time. When I stirred next, the prince had slipped on a short sleeve green shirt and chewed something.

"Comfortable?"

"Yep. What's it? Nice?"

"Sandwich." Nuada swallowed with a glass of water. "Halfling, you should go home soon. Bring back the things."

I scowled. "You wanted me to visit, now you're driving me away?" I inserted some hurt in my voice. Nuada smiled. He touched my head.

" No I am not. Please go home."

"Why?" The sigil smarted once more. Damn, wrong timing! Nuada went to the table, picking up several things. Then he returned.

"Smear some more of this herb. It is a natural painkiller." Oh the little container with the purple lotion Nuala had used previously. He gently swabbed some of the cream.

I thanked him. "By the way you avoid the question, why don't you want me to stay?"

Nuada growled. I opened my eyes wide. "Do you have no feelings for your kin? You only said till this morning. Come back afterwards." I hugged him. Again the elf felt stiff to the touch. He had only reciprocated last night. He awkwardly rested his fingers on my back.

Thank you.

*******

In the end it was Abraham who gave the game away. We girls had not intended to tell the prince yet about their marriage. Nuala met me again at one of the fey neutral territories. She had made some more of the healing salve for me.

"Laira, have you found the time to- talk to brother of our matter?" Nuala asked, some way into our little chat. She was impressed by my knowledge of the fey. I really loved her too. She was royalty but didn't throw her weight about.

"Not yet. Want me to? What if he becomes super furious?"

She laughed. "He won't dare to harm women and children. But he might harm Abraham Sapien. I fear that case."

"Want to do it today? It's been a few days already." I thought telling him on the phone would be fine. Nuala agreed.

******

Liz Sherman

I liked the elf prince. His arrogance had much subdued, showed how seriously hurt he was. I bet he would resume his bossy dominating hate- humans ways when he was well.

Actually I was all for escorting him, but suddenly when I went to check on him, I was spooked.

"I am sorry for hurting your boyfriend."

It was not something I heard everyday, an apology from a man! I tried to analyze if he sounded malicious or fake. But no. The spear in Red's chest almost took his life. I wanted the prince to pay! But I didn't have the heart to wish that when they brought him into the emergency. Bleeding profusely, Nuada was dying. I forgave him at that moment.

I don't know if Nuala knows, but not all the poison has been purged from his body. That explained the lethargic and his amber eyes were not as bright as before. I did not know what else to talk about except that we would make sure they felt at home here.

The little present was something I made by collecting some golden leaves. I had meant it for my other friends but they would mock it. Nuada was visibly touched and smiled more. Evidently the elf did not mind me being silent. I could take my time and his gaze was non judgmental. Then seizing on that, I asked him if he liked to go outdoors and invited him to next time.

We will be friends now. I warned Hellboy to be civil and not bash him up. "C'mon babe. This guy's a weakling now. I won't. At least not now."

"Then later?" I demanded, hands on hips.

He blew on his special hand and laughed easily. "Yea. To see who's the better warrior. Admit it, I was awesome with the sword, then minus it, I could still win. Haha!"

He is my lover. But men equals to boys.

Nuada

At some point in time stupid Sapien bustled in and said he needed to tell me something important. I turned my back on him. "Prince, it concerns our future happiness….." I think I lost consciousness, after the medicine wore off the agony had returned in such degree. I thought I heard the word marriage.

What? Nuala my sister going to marry this- this freak? Damn! Wake up. Abraham Sapien was just leaving, hiding behind some people in white. I shouted, "When did you plan this? Do not touch her! She's mine. I won't let anyone who is non fey to touch her!"

"So sorry, sorry."

******

Don't recall fully what happened after that. I was violent, hurling some things in Abraham Sapien's direction and more yelling. Many humans had come in. A needle in my skin. I could not move my arms. They had restrained me.

"Let me out, I am calm now," I commanded a human in black suit.

He perspired profusely. "No I cannot."

I cursed. "Call Liz Sherman. I want to speak to her." The man hurried off, but more people were watching me like a hawk. I glared at them. Liz dismissed them. I asked her to let me out of these restraints.

The woman studied me for a while. "Are you sure? Don't go and kill him."

"I will not." I gritted my teeth. Take deep breaths, calm down. "Now cut me loose."

Liz released me. I rubbed my wrists. "Abe is our friend. Nuada you cannot hit him. Shouting is fine. Hellboy and I do it all the time."

I sulked, drawing my knees up to my chest. How had Nuala hidden this from me? She should not have plotted in secret with this fish idiot. It was so unfair. Siding with strangers against me. Hitting is only the first thing on my mind. Bashing and kicking him into the walls several times would suffice. No! I cannot let them be together! My niece and nephews will look like—this is all so wrong.

Liz silently watched me. "Why did you ask for me?"

I replied truthfully, "You would listen. I don't want to be a prisoner here."

"Sorry, usually if someone gets violent, they restrain you and drug you. Are you- ok? Nuala…"

"What? She will do it no matter what I say." I grumbled, leaning on the wall and knocking my head. Liz seemed quite concerned. At least Abraham would leave me alone now and stop being insincerely friendly. What had I done, I accepted his token? Was there a way to reject that? Nuala did not care. She didn't even come to speak to me. I tried telepathy but no answer. Would we lose our mutual connection?

I wrote a note: Look here, after what you told me, I don't accept your friendship. Nuala is my sister and she will marry only an elf. You are not fey. Don't think of coming between us or you'll pay. I wanted to go and post it right away wherever his bloody room was located. But I turned around upon seeing the red demon. I was not fit enough to bash him up.

"Yo your highness! Ready for a spar?"

"No."

"What's that?" he asked gleefully, about to snatch my paper. I hurried away. He did not pursue me but later attributed it to my crazy temper. Who was the one with the temper? He was famous for it. In my room I heard him hollering at people and even at his woman. Liz had exploded their room five times already in two weeks. The firegirl came to see me whenever she had time. We talked about paranormal phenomena. She was my first friend here. I like it that she is cool headed, aside from the boy- girl arguments.

The naughty child had known of Nuala keeping the secret from me. She called me when Joe and her were unable to come. I could use the phone as long as I wished. This was some rich organization. Still had a few more days before I was to go on a mission.

She had the audacity to laugh as I told her what happened.

"You were so angry? That's funny I should've taken a photo of you."

I chuckled. Come to think of it, bystanders would laugh at my childishness. "I was such an embarrassment, Lyra. When did Nuala decide this?"

"Er some time already. We wanted to tell you, but… afraid to. Did she talk about it?"

I sighed and rubbed my forehead. "No. After what happened, both of them have not come close to me."

"Nuada, are you all right now? Have you accepted her decision? She has been waiting for the opportune moment. She really isn't rushing into it."

Did my sister ask her to say that? This child was much too young to…

"Yes. Understand that. But we are twins, it hasn't been possible to hide from me. Nuala has never done it before." I thought over this, and how much time I had missed her womanhood. Tears came to my eyes. I took a deep breath and listened to what Laira was saying.

"I think you're pained mainly coz of that um, betrayal. But she'll respect you for who you are. You've blood ties. I like you a lot. You've good qualities."

"Thank you. You too." I replied quite shakily.

"Hmm, like you're helpful, brave, quite friendly."

Haha me friendly. "You won't kill Abraham Sapien will you?" she ventured worriedly.

I gave her my word. Probably fight off all resistance but they would shoot me again with that damned needle. I practiced daily now I had recovered. I fantasized that happening.

Anyway a fey is honorable. "I told you what you had to know. But you've deceived me. That is evil." I made my voice stern.

"Oh sorry." Such an unapologetic tone. I listened to her laughing after that. "I am half-elf, trying to get used to it..still can't help it if I lie occasionally. Right?"

"No it's not all right. Will you keep more things from me? How can there be a friendship based on suspicions?"

"No Nuada. Jokes are ok. I won't backstab you."

I hoped not. "Missing the point, I want to discuss this marriage thing. It's not a good idea." Namely Abe the half-breed will sabotage any chance- my nieces and nephews would look like fishy people, blue stripes and no hair! I felt so nauseated at the thought.

When I mentioned this, Laira said, "Aww. Maybe they will look more like Nuala than him. Or they can adopt kids. Don't worry too much. Be happy for them."

"Haha." I felt sarcastic. But deep down, my little heart blossomed some love. What, they

Thought this elf too old to handle the emotions. I will show them. If he wants me to accept his proposal, I will test him.

Strain his patience to breaking point. "Nuada you all right? What're you plotting now?"

I smiled cheered up. "Nothing much. How's your day?"