Chapter 30 Defensive moves And Wedding Bells for Nuala!

I love designing the whole wedding place. What do u think?

Nightquest, by Nightwish: my favorite lines are here:

Lead by a maid queen of the night
Voice of angel such a divine sight
An amazon to fight and cure
This reality with her feline lure

Patriotic to the promised land
Of never-waking dream

Nightquest a quest not for the past
But for tomorrow to make it last
Simply the best way to walk this life
Hand in hand with a dreamer's mind
Enter the realm don't stay awake
The dreams remain they only break
Forget the task enjoy the ride
And follow us into the night...

Laira

It was a rude shock to hear my dear elf prince crying in the darkness. I usually slept soundly but his distress echoed into my dreams. He had denied this at first. Tried to be strong. Poor thing. So I held him tight and consoled him. "Don't pretend to be strong." I wanted him to open up to me.

Nuada woke up first and used a lot of energy to help my bro. He looked so drained. When I took the temperature Joe was doing better than before. The warrior wanted to protect me. I had not understood what his gift truly was. Might I have hurt his feelings? Seen it on my desk, so I put it on. His expression was worth all the gold in the world.

I recommended my method to handle his grief. It takes really long to heal scars this deep. When we were out that day in the secret garden, he said he had never wept, only denied. Over the centuries, the young Nuada must have closed over his raw wounds with victories and failures, taking them in his stride. Punishing himself. Training distracted him. I wondered why Nuada had not caved in till now. His smile was weak but signified that he was much better. He wanted silence. I liked the feel of his chest.

Then he asked about my aunt, holding me so I didn't look at him. Yet his touch spoke volumes. Underneath, the elf murmured, Let me heal, on my own. I don't want you worrying. Speak of other light things. I want distractions, child.

I obliged him, my aunt, my wishes, whatever I could think of. He sat up when I asked him to teach me defence. "Can you handle cuts, bruises, sprains? It is common to sustain them in the process."

"Yes."

"You do not know what you are asking. When I learnt to fight, I became a cold blooded killer. It is only the metal that sings. Blood will be lost, and so will innocence!" Nuada went on sternly. So different from the sad persona he was just minutes ago. "I don't want you to go through all that."

I acquiesced. "Yes. But in this way I gain practical skills. I don't want to be helpless. Then you won't think too much. Brooding is bad for health." He cocked his head. (it is mystery why he does it!) He seemed to be battling an internal enemy.

Nuada looked very sad. I felt a little guilty, this look was the one he showed when he was grieving for his sister's loss. "I'm sorry. You don't have to do it now. But I would like to try, please. Onegai." I bowed twice and clasped my hands together.

I listened to the elf explaining of the Hunter's instincts, losses, huge transitions. They were his personal experiences with war. "The Hunter is in everyone. You lose control, your sanity and life won't be the same. Irreversible. You still wish to continue?"

"Yup."

The doubt cleared from his features. The prince blinked.

"Very well. Hold it like this." He corrected my grip on the knife. "It is the same for swords." Nuada showed me how exactly to stand so I wouldn't fall. Balance is key to a fighter. I listened raptly. When was the action? The rolling, somersaulting, vaulting over.

"I find it more effective to bring the blade down in an arc. This is better than stabbing forth. Yes, good." He had borrowed another bigger dagger from the table and demonstrated. I imitated his strokes, slash, parry and a series of different combinations.

"Yay! When can you do the fancy moves? Like rolling and jump kicking?" Hope ascended my dreaming. This is getting somewhere!

"I am the teacher. Since you want to learn so badly, I can choose what to impart. There is no need for fancy somersaults. " He flashed a brief smile. "Besides, I have to refrain from those actions. Doctor's advice."

I pouted. "Aw! You're still tired? Come, sit down." I poured some tea and bowed.

Nuada replied, "Reluctant to follow, but necessary. Thanks." He did the same and took the cup. I was suddenly overcome by mirth.

"What is so funny?' he asked annoyed.

"Cute!" I replied. He never liked listening to instructions, especially medically. Suddenly the elf wished to? You can make a comedian with such a serious face when you crack jokes.

Nuada frowned, baffled. "I do not intend to."

I held my stomach, laughing till tears spurted out.

"Disrespectful. Fine, no more. I shall ignore you." He turned his back and looked out the window.

"No no! I'm sorry. Just that, you obeying instructions is funny. I can imagine your solemn expression like yes sir. Get it?"

He nodded. His eyes danced, but his words were- "My masters would have punished me. No discipline or respect. I should be strict."

I smiled in open trust. "Nuada anything. I will not laugh again, I promise."

The prince regarded me with smothering amber irises. His scar had deepened again.

"Perhaps, I shall bend the rule."

"Oh thank you!" I concentrated.

Nuada sheathed my blade. He said amateurs should not use a naked blade. On several tries, I dropped mine on the floor. Not as easy as it looks. My hands ached. The elf picked up my blade on my tenth or twelfth try. "Stop. You don't have to do twirling. You will end up impaling me. Look it has come loose."

I replied, "Sorry! It is fine to do this stuff?" The elf was trying to tie it more securely. I watched him.

Absorbed in this action, Nuada took time to answer, "Yes. Doctors, a few of them. How I miss exercising vigorously. It feels good to train, and improve myself. This is a mere fraction."

"You're already excellent. Better than me. Were you ever clumsy?" I probed.

He smiled, removing his shirt. His fair skin sheened with sweat. I flopped down panting.

Next was trying to attack him as an opponent. Like a martial arts show, the lithe elf evaded and sidestepped my attempts to 'attack'. Pathetic. I was concerned I would hurt him, even if it was sheathed. I could not even touch or brush against him. When I finally thought I could tap his stomach, he plucked my weapon away. It was so quick I didn't even notice!

I was stupefied. "Shit! How the? "

"You think too much. Were you focused?"

"I am. On not hurting you," I said softly, failing to meet his gaze.

"That is a mistake. I am your opponent. This has to change. Do you want to defend yourself?" how vastly different from his brotherly care…

I struggled with this. Again I voiced my concern. "What if it comes loose and pierces you? I'd feel bad."

He nodded and offered the hilt to me. "You should focus on: how am I to get past his defences? Study the weak points, try to penetrate. Failure will get you hurt. If you can't, you just cannot use a weapon. Defence is the opposite of offence, preserve your life first. Then you can protect your loved ones. Understand?"

"Ok. Hmm, show me how to present the dagger in peace?" He gracefully turned it horizontal and offered. I practiced slowly. But still could not touch Nuada. It must have taken years and years to get this skilful. Nope my talent isn't in this field.

"I conclude that you are a civilian. Do not touch a weapon. You cannot be detached enough, youngling," Nuada said firmly. I drank water.

And if I persist? Will I eventually?

Frankly, not in many years. No way can you reach my level. Let me protect you. He persuaded. His black lips were tight. The ritual scar had become prominent. How fiercely loyal he was to his cause, and will. I didn't promise but decided to stop for now.

"I want to watch tv. Where is the relaxation here?" he complained, drawing his sleeve over his forehead.

I chuckled. Surfing cable yielded nothing nice. "Please don't turn anymore. I'm giddy." On my toggling of channels. "Let's watch the Aang one, about the magicians." He sounded like a young elf.

We began with the middle episodes. Why? Coz I summarized the first season. Nuada didn't want to view from part one. Same for books, he will go for the middle action sequences.

"Nice show. I think it is also on the cable thing," he said thinking.

"You have cable?"

"I did not know of it, till recently. I was cleaning up when I saw this box below. I lost the remote. Can it work without?"

"Nuada you're never careless. Yes, but it's tedious."

He smiled and sat back. "I'm flattered you think so highly of me. I lost it."

The elf watched the anime, absorbed and at peace. I leaned against him. "That's Jet, Kitara's boyfriend. He's not really wicked. And Toph, the earthbender."

His arm curled about me.

"Mellon, you are my protector. I want you to be happy," I whispered.

The golden head inclined he had heard.

"Thank you, angel. The Bureau has good news. They may have found my spear." He waited to see how I would react.

I grinned. "Cool! When will it be confirmed?"

"They will let me know. It is still pending. I have made peace with Fishie."

I was helpless with laughter. Honestly, this elf won't mince his words of his arch rivals and enemies. He projected a mini Abe mouthing in a small glass bowl.

He smirked. "If I go against him, my sister will drift apart from me. Pitting myself constantly against his virtues wears my patience. He really is persistent overriding my points." I held his hand to listen in.

But I cannot wait to bash him up. I want to really!

Hey! Nuada you will make her cry. Come on.

What is come on? Don't make me think so hard, please.

Catchphrase. Hehe.

You spoil my fantasy of the pleasure. So sad. Then my bracelet hand tingled. "Nuada why is it like that? Itchy." I scratched along the rim.

Nuada's touch soothed the itch.

"It is normal. Your emotions are connected to it. If you notice, soon you shall, our telepathic connection is much clearer. Try to speak to me when I go there. It is what you call magic." His fingers were cool on my hand. He shut his eyes, bestowing a little kiss on my hand. The flaxen locks slid down

When we checked on my brother, he was awake. Joe tried to get up. Nuada pressed him down. "Rest. It is a weekend."

I said I would do what he needed to. Joe relaxed. Since I didn't allow Nuada to use more spells that'd drain his strength, he stuck to wiping his forehead and feeding him food. The guys had heartfelt conversation.

*****

Over the phone, Nuada confirmed that it was his spear. He had seen the catalogue. "I cannot wait to hold it once more!"

"I am happy for you!"

"Thanks. I'm going there tomorrow. But you know, it will be item number 168. So long, I got to wait!" he laughed at the absurdity.

"Patience is a virtue, elf. The BPRD will have money for the auction? To bid?"

Nuada said, "Hold on, sorry." Rustle of the receiver. "Yes. Krauss is back. I won't have to wait, he knows people there."

"Great! Be careful, don't destroy stuff."

Impatient growl. "No, why would I? You are mad. I will be arrested what good is that? Patience makes one slow." I chuckled, yea it will be aeons before the elf will curb his impulsion. And it assures me of his youth.

*******

Saturday end of September. My favorite month, and day of Nuala and Abraham's wedding. It would begin in the morning. I was going to help the bride with her dress and florals.

Morning! Her brother greeted like a speaker in my mind.

I didn't wear the bracelet but his voice was louder. I told him: 'same to you. Almost got a heart attack. Are you excited?'

Happy.

Oh! I think you must be dashing. Can't wait to meet.

Nuada then said he was needed elsewhere so he tuned out. I wore my new dress, another one Nuala had accompanied me to tailor. This is a gown with leaves of individual patterns trailing down the seams. It has unusual buttons which I love. They are made of durable Gryfon, a kind of plant. The violet fabric was cooling and smelled au naturel.

You may have noticed elven robes don't all have buttons, they are simple slipons with a sash to tighten everything together. So I thought buttons were not necessary!

I was given a ride by my brother. He said he would come later, closer to the actual thing. I reminded him not to be late. The venue was huge, shaded by Elmtreebeards against unpredictable weather. Hope it didn't rain, it is auspicious they are married in sunshine.

It was in the eastern part of Bethmora, an expanse of land they had prepared. Much of the city was still not safe to negotiate.

I spotted Liz Sherman in a crimson dress that showed her curves, large dangling earrings. Abe was in plain azure. His high collar hid the breathing apparatus and complemented the stripes on him. He was talking with animated gestures, with some human agents. The elves? I was quite lost. A huge turnout of people!

Abe touched my hand. "Abe Congrats! I can't wait!"

I checked my cellphone. Nothing. Then Nuala said, Laira I'm in the short building with arches and a white tent outside. Come right in. Call Liz too.

Many blond elves bowed slightly and smiled at us. "You look dashing!" I whispered to the flame girl.

"Ha you too. I don't know you."

"Where is Red?"

"He's socializing. I saw him with Nuada and Manning."

My heart tripped. I haven't seen my soulmate yet! Never mind, I will find him later. The bracelet thankfully was not excited. Didn't want to scratch like a dog. Some maidens were braiding the elf girl's hair. Petals and colorful beads were woven in. Nuala smiled, turning slightly. "My friends! Glad you can make it."

I touched hands with her. I learnt that Nuada had ceased thinking Abe was obstructing their connection, but still could not accept that his nieces or nephews might be tainted with fishie genes.

"Liz over here. Help us hold this please."

I said, "He just says that. I am sure he will love being uncle." Her necklace was also azure like leaves of sapphire stones. The earrings had little silver fishes. The material felt really smooth, not stifling unlike human gowns. (I wore my bridesmaid dress for my friend's wedding before, it made me sneeze)

Everything in lapis lazuli how perfect that is. Nuala laughed as I thought this. For Liz's benefit, I explained. The flame licked around her cross. "You should see Red's suit. Nuada looks very cute."

"I can't wait to see him! Where?" I yelped.

"Aw cannot help me already?" his twin feigned disappointment.

The princess was settled and would come out when more guests arrived. The banquet area and seats were neatly in rows. Wooden chairs. Uriel and a lovely lady beside him. "Hello mortal.. I mean Lirael. This is Risele my wife." She bowed to me. Uriel had braided his hair. "Looking for prince? Over there." He gestured to a crowd of golden hair guys. That was helpful.

He had seen me first. "Want one?" his voice was gruff and he held out a candy bar.

"Yes! Thank you." I looked up at my friend. Nuada had placed a basket of candies on the table. I guess he did not want to look silly with that on his arm. Other people came. He nodded to them. "Take as much as you want," he said to guests.

His long hair was braided, the blue robes were male design, similar blue to his twin's. Material shimmered under the sunshine. The bottom had gold stars embroidered in. Whereas the bride's dress was a onepiece continuous, Nuada's was cinched at the waist with a golden sash, a small seal in the middle. Nuala's seal was on the necklace, come to think of it. I noticed both sides of his upper coat were held together by a few strings. The sleeves were long but not loose. Handsome!

"Why didn't you wear your crown?" I asked him. Nuada sat down to rest. He was quite tired. Another elf helped to distribute the candies.

"No need. My sister is the main focus. This is enough. Are you happy?" he asked softly. I almost didn't hear, so intent was I on his ambers. I smiled.

"Yea! I love weddings free food and drinks.. I told ya. What about you?"

He rubbed his nose bridge, smiled back. "Hmm, so busy. Laira, we did not expect such a huge turnout. She only gave a few invitations. It is a blissful occasion. You look feminine. New one?" I twirled and curtsied. Yay! He noticed!

"Yep. Nice right. Thank you!"

"Welcome." I held his hand awhile. We greeted other people, mostly strangers. Sometimes, Nuada bowed and clasped their hands speaking elven. There are only rare occasions he will smile like that, so free of bitterness. I nodded politely. A few elves glanced at me. I wondered why.

"They ask me if you're an elf." He walked beside me.

"What did you say?" I glanced at the fineboned and graceful pureblood elves. I am nothing like them.

"Yes." Nuada took me to a less crowded place. This touched me.

I heard what you were thinking. I'm not bitter now. He turned and glared at me.

"Can't you sound more-aristocratic? It's a happy day!"I griped pretending to be angry too.

My bracelet shifted, glowing with colors. Nuada was concerned. Finally after the essentially strange itch, it stopped.

"Is this normal? I prefer a normal gift."

"What do you mean? It is normal. I don't give defective things." His voice was sulky. He tweaked my hair.

Never mind. Then he spoke to some fey. They were green hairy creatures that flickered in and out of existence, one separated from the group to a nearby dais. An elf translated what it said in English. The music had changed to a faster tempo.

Nuada tapped my shoulder.

"Laira I have to go now. Mix around and enjoy," his tone was sunny.

Will I see you again later? I didn't want him to leave me.

All will, dainin. Everyone. Before he left, Nuada guided me to Liz and Red.

Then he vanished. I remembered where his twin's room was. Unlike some brides to be with weeping, she did not. Her euphoria was serene. Oh yes, she is about two hundred years, lots of experience. I should stop comparing with humans. An elven child asked me to go in. The bride's orange irises glittered. A similar elf child gave me a basket of leaves. They smelled of peonies.

"Help me toss them over princess," she said.

"Ok! Sure." When will it start? I was very thrilled. She said it would be signaled by a bugle's call. Fiddle music played to a lively tune. The musicians were young elves to one side of a platform. Sapien waited at a stage platform with two priests. I guess they should be, they were green and plain in design. "They are priests?" I asked the elf child who would toss flowers with me.

"Yes. You are clever."

I blushed. Nuala began walking, we automatically followed her. Other kids were in front. Nuada stepped in smoothly before me. The leaves flew in the air, landing on their hair. I supposed mine too. The female elf : he is your mate?

How do you know?

I know. I can see your link. It's a very strong one.

The bride clasped her brother's arm. Elves were not rowdy. A few were. She added that I was fortunate to have a royal prince as my mate. Thank yous were repeated. We bridesmaids stopped before the steps, of which the twins ascended. Nuala spoke in Gaellic then English. She made a speech, dedicated to their parents and then her brother.

Her brother beamed. I applauded with the community.

Abraham bowed to her twice, then she did. The priests said blessings. One of them with white hair and beard held out a cushion with stuff. Hey what are those?

Exchange of elven gifts. She will give him a ring and he will place a crown on her. Nuada replied. After the ceremony, quite fast, Nuada embraced the groom, kissed him on both cheeks and said something. Abe's thoughts buzzed. He is so kind! The other priest waved a staff and sprinkled water on the couple with a golden cup.

The applause was deafening. Nuala laughed, holding hands with Abraham. Red put his arm around Abe, basking in the stage attention. His black suit had been tailored large enough for his big bulk. My friend was vanished.

"I'm Jasmine Nessaloch. You?"

"Laira Severn. I'm a half elf." We became friends instantly. Seek food with the rest! All types of food, human and elven snacks. I recognized the cakes Nuada had brought home. I took some. Then I ate fishballs. "Dunno where Joe is, said he will come."

He had got here in time, he was surrounded by chics. Damn is he good! I just made one friend. Jasmine smiled. "He is not bad looking."

I chuckled.

Nuala saw me. "My brother's not used to so much social activity. He's exhausted, went to a private chamber with Uriel and elven men. Do ask him to eat. He came very early."

"All right. I will." The firegirl came over so I won't be alone in my mission ensure-food-delivery! She had her plate stacked full. Haha! She needed so much to stay full. "You happy?"

"Very. I'm happy for them all. Where is the private chamber?"

"Not sure but I'm coming with you. At this reception they're all polite. At my cousin's wedding, everyone shoved each other. Any cute guys you checking? I think they're all. I fell for them."

"Haha don't let Red hear that."

"No. But, tempting," Liz replied.

We asked a few people till someone took us there. The private chamber was a stone golem doorway. It looked alive. Tarsir, a helpful elf, touched its hand and the stone melted inwards. He gestured. "Through there. Tell them you want to go in."

Liz

True love indeed! I looked forward to this day much. I am happy for them both. The prince's joy was evident too. Only we knew how much he opposed their union, not without reason. Abe's indecision and poor combat skills worried the prince. It took much hard work consoling him that they were soulmates, and we would help. The elf was stoic. After his illness, there was a change in his attitude. He was not as vehement anymore.

Nuala was not as soft as she appeared to be.

I ate a lot. I always felt ravenous. Halfway through the entrance, uncomfortably dark, I told the girl, "I'll be here. After all it is your time together."

"No no Liz it's all right. He says come in." She smiled. Go where? I put down my plate where it vanished into a crevice. Neat.

She is an Empath. Abe's kind. A woman in BPRD had only discovered her talent for reconstructing events when she was 30. Laira had the ability to bloom faster being half elf. Nuada only revealed this when he had her permission, because he wanted her to have a normal life. It's terrible and exhausting. No way. I will not allow it. I saw his face cloud with paternal concern.

She was ok with many things and she took to the lonely prince with great enthusiasm. Laira really cared for him. I remember his beatific smile when I asked about the children. Liz I want to repay them, and protect them with all my abilities. Nuala has the fish. I can be myself and not feel lonely, he had confided. Given his machoistic tendencies, I perked up when he spoke like that. He was more comfortable telling us how he felt now.

The guys came into view. If not for his blue robe, I would fail to spot him. All three had same braided blond hair too. Uriel smiled. "Ah! You found us. See, they're bright kids."

"I'm a woman," I replied jovially.

"Yep! Nuada are you all right?" the girl asked, throwing her arms around Nuada who had just risen. He smiled affectionately.

"I am fine. Liz are you full?" He was that meticulous. We were usually on his case to eat more, he had not gained much weight back. Under stress the prince wouldn't eat at all. I didn't want a second crisis of his collapse.

"Plenty. I never starve. You need to eat."

He smiled. Uriel remarked, "Yes he needs time alone. I for one can't wait to eat! Let's go! Can we my dear lord?"

"Don't. I'm not your lord." Nuada looked pissed.

The other elf introduced himself, "I am Molowan. Hello pleased to meet you." His eyes were odd, one gold, one green. I bowed too.

"Hurry! Nuala says you came early. I hear your stomach growling! How cold you feel." She piped up, tugging.

"Ok coming. Is it very crowded?" Nuada sounded timid, to me. He won't admit of course.

"No worries. We will take care of you. What's this place?" I noticed the Spartan room for its plainness, only lit by small lamps filled with glowworms.

"A temporary sanctuary. We built them for rest and naps." The muscular Molowan replied. He looked capable of ramming through walls.

We headed out. "I have, some snacks. Do not worry." The prince whispered. He gestured, the doorway opened again. Now we were in darkness. Blue light came from their chests, source were their chains. It was ingenious!

"What are they made of?" I asked Uriel.

"Glow flies and spell activation." The sunlight spilled through, more voices and crowding. Nuada was blocked by many elves. Why didn't he like their attention? He is so popular. I envy that. Molowan asked if I had a date. His odd eyes made him attractive. Did he mean mate?

Red bounded up to us. "That is him." I said, thumbing to him. Molowan smiled.

"Liz where've you been? I couldn't find ya." first question he asked!

"In a secret passage." I smiled. "Exploring."

"C'mon weekend is relaxation. Just let loose. Babe."

"Don't call me babe."

"Who's that?" The boys talked. Red held me by the waist. Must he be so possessive? I had been explicit to the elf that I am attached. What is he afraid of?

Nuada

Both good and bad this day turned out. I almost panicked at the number of guests who turned up for Nuala's wedding! Being a loner from my exile, and I didn't eat with more than three elves, the stress weighed on me. I did not speak much, simply giving candies and tokens to the strangers. I smiled less from happiness than a need to be polite. I could not wait to be alone.

Abraham marrying my sister for real. I longed to change her mind up till she gave the wedding invites. It was two issues altogether, the fishie as an ally but a member of our family? What would mother and father think? No elf has had a bondmate of such a diverse origin.

Yet, we had just reconciled. Nuala was firm on her decision. I did not want our ties to deteriorate with another mistake. As I escorted her to the stage, she was full of joy and peace, acceptance of me. All these emotions channeled to my heart as well. Brother, I love you. Thank you for accompanying me. I smiled. All the guests friends, relatives also accepted this union.

When I faced the bridegroom, I found my embrace to be genuine.

Abraham confided how happy he felt. Now I know you as my brother-in-law Nuada!

True. I am giving her to you. "Make good this vow, Abraham. Protect and honour her," I replied, clasping his shoulder. His gills opened and closed. My sister kissed him.

Then I could leave, such stifling heat. All morning without privacy. Uriel and Molowan followed me to the private chambers. I had a good rest listening to them exchange gossip.

"Prince, soon we should go and eat," Molowan urged.

"By and by. I'm exhausted." I closed my eyes, intending to sleep for a bit.

The girls came to find me. They were so concerned for my welfare. What to worry, I had already eaten snacks. Laira plucked my sleeve. "Eat!" her tone was motherly.

I smiled down at her, holding out a stick of food. "Thank you. I will feed myself."

"What you dreaming about? I like the atmosphere!"

"No more a dream, dainin… it is real. He will now be a brother," I replied.

She took my hand. "So you sad that you can't have her to yourself? Don't be."

Then she swallowed a few more desserts. I watched her devour purple soft jelly.

"Not really. I am not jealous. She will always be mine. He cannot stop me." My stomach cried out, needing more nutrition. Sigh. Laira laughed. I got a bowl of pasta, grilled potatoes, dessert. Found a table. I pulled a chair for her.

"What time you woke up?"

"5 in the dawn. You?"

"7am. So early! Nuada want to sleep early later? Look haggard."

I winced at this frankness. "Surely not. This is makeup."

Must be a joke. She giggled. I showed my disapproval. Really, I don't understand humor.

After some food, I stifled a yawn. She took my hand. "Sleep early tonight."

Before that I would already be. "Soon. I had to do many things, make sure all was perfect. At least it's worth it." I gestured around. I detailed some things, as the Halflings don't take simple replies.

"I wanted to braid your hair. How long it took?" she caressed my braid.

"2 hours." About there… I had wanted to catch some sleep but the tugging woke me. Lirael, of high ambitions, was by nature inquisitive and sisterly at the same time. I suppose I will never be alone again.

"Hey make it stop. Please." She stuck out her hand. Snakelike wiggling across her hand.

I intoned the gaellic. Did she sound unhappy? I should ask the crafter why the movements were so frequent.

"Why does it move, Noowa?"

"Your feelings. But it has its own life. You may take it off if you don't like it."

"Will you mind? It's ok," she said, concerned. I smiled. That relaxed her. "Hmm, I don't think so. You will be angry. Can it make a shield, do practical things?"

I would not. If it was uncomfortable, I did not mind. We are more than friends. I care much for her.

While we were at a stand, I kissed her cheek. She gasped. There were others nearby but I paid no heed to them. It will protect you, but do not make a test. Our trinkets and items are enchanted. I have told you before… enough?

"Yep. What time do we leave? I'm gonna make sure you sleep 8 to 10 hours." Again, the child attempted to look after me.

I laughed. "That won't be necessary. I'm fine. Anytime we can leave. Wait, want to talk to sister first. Do you wish to come?"

She agreed. I liked her new dress, she looked like a fairy elf. Nuala was giving bouquets to the bridesmaids. "Here you too, thank you for coming," she told Laira.

"Brother!"

I congratulated my twin. We touched hands, I connected with her orange eyes. They were never lighter than mine.

"I don't know why our bond weakened. But I will do anything for it to return, brother. I miss our talks inside."

"We can use the modern phone. As long as we still carry on. I just want your happiness."

She smiled. When she hugged me, I closed my eyes, breathing deep. She was crying when we parted. "What is it?" But she didn't say and stepped away.

The fish commented, he had come from the side. "You may come anytime, Nuada. Do you want anything?"

I smiled. "Of course. Not yet... some music?"

I invited him to walk with me.

"Which one?"

"Playing yesterday, starts with T."

"Tchaikovsky. Sure!" Abe said eagerly. Other guests sent their regards and surveyed my clothing. I was floating with happiness.

Then we met the demon and his girl. Liz my close friend. I told her she looked beautiful.

"Hey blondie, thanks for these food and drinks. You're swell!"

Crude as usual. I laughed. The nicknames didn't bother me anymore. He wanted to test my patience. Red is younger than I am, I ought to give allowance for it. Laira jumped up and he swung her up.

"Guys, let's take photos! You hardly get so dressed."

I only had a portrait done, having to stand still for hours. Now the click and bright light made it faster. The firegirl pulled me closer. Red seemed jealous, so I would leave now.

"See you!" elves called.

I replied similarly. Out of the forest, Laira and I alone. I thought I could summon a horse.

A horn sound. Car? I had not asked for it… the man was James, he designed weapons and suits.

James opened the doors. "Can I go to your house? I don't have plans," I asked her.

I lay back on the cushy seats. "Ok. Hang on where's Joe? Did you see him?"

"You did not come together? We only spoke for awhile. I saw him… " I said. I was too sleepy to think.

"James please wait awhile. I want to go talk to him."

She returned breathless. I snapped awake. "He is with some gals. Didn't pick up. We'll go home first. Rest, Nuada." She talked to the boy on the cellphone. I looked out the window then closed my eyes. Then she tapped my arm, breathing on my face.

"It's itchy again. Help."

I unclasped the bracelet. Problem solved.

Then I didn't hear anymore. Soothing darkness, and Nuala's smile.

Thank you Nuada! Let's talk some more next week.

Yes all right.