Chapter 13

A/N: Did you all get a chance to read Aro's perspective in Chapter 12? Interesting stuff. I saw that some missed that updated chapter. :) So just letting y'all know not to miss that chapter. It's crucial.

Disclaimer: I do not own Twilight or any of it's characters, that's all Stephenie Myer's department!

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Hello EdibleArt: Aro was a character when he was younger, huh. We will see if we can get more of Aro.

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"Three may keep a secret, if two of them are dead."—Benjamine Franklin

Over the next few days, Melxa didn't see any reason for me to be stuck in the labs. Afterall, Aro hadn't said anything about me not being able to carry out servitude duties. Consequently, he guided me toward the humble servants' corridors and kindly instructed that I be assigned meaningful tasks.

It was enjoyable to be out of labs. The chance to escape the confines of the labs and it felt liberating. Although my initial experience with the people of Novis was far from pleasant, I was determined to turn things around and show everyone what I was capable of.

In addition to cleaning the floor and changing lines, I had the opportunity to assist with washing elegant gowns. It was a meticulous task that required delicate handling and attention to detail. The intricate designs and delicate fabrics of the gowns demanded special care, and I took great pride in ensuring they were cleaned to perfection.

I also had the chance to lend a hand in the kitchens. From prepping ingredients to assisting the chefs, I embraced the fast-paced environment and eagerly contributed to the culinary creations. Whether it was chopping strange plants or plating dishes, I was always ready to assist and learn.

Melxa's sole instruction to me was to refrain from engaging in conversation with the human servants. Instead, he emphasized the importance of attentively heeding the commands delivered in my native tongue by my superiors and dutifully following them. Melxa made it clear that it would be unfavorable for my image if I were caught attempting to engage in chitchat with the other humans. Other rebellious intensions might be assumed.

It was certainly tempting to engage in conversation, but there was an undeniable sense that none of them had any interest in talking. Their heads remained lowered, and they deliberately avoided making eye contact. Even if I had the desire to converse with my fellow human slaves, they appeared utterly defeated.

Exhausted, I let out a deep sigh while lugging a burdensome pail filled with grimy water. The countless trips I made to dispose of the filthy floor water onto the shrubs had blurred into a hazy memory.

"Allow me," a resonant voice declared from overhead. Taken aback, I glanced upwards to witness Enzuk gracefully descending from a nearby tree.

A wave of relief washed over me, as I handed him the pail, appreciating the unexpected assistance. Enzuk effortlessly carried the burden, his strong arms displaying no signs of strain. As he gracefully moved toward the shrubs, I couldn't help but admire his agility and harmony with nature.

Enzuk poured the dirty water onto the shrubs, the plants eagerly absorbing the nourishment. Enzuk and I had not seen each other as often as I would have liked over the last few days, and so his presence was welcomed.

Driven by curiosity, I couldn't resist asking, "How did you know where to find me?"

Enzuk's warm smile and kind eyes twinkled as he replied, "I always know where you are. Besides, I have been observing you for some time now. You should know that I never let you out of my sight. I figured, this time I could lend a helping hand."

"Thank you," I expressed with genuine appreciation. "That was kind of you."

"Sometimes, all it takes is a helping hand to make the burden a little lighter." Enzuk's eyes wondered shamelessly down my body as he breathed out a long sigh. "I have missed you so much. I awoke this morning and longed for your warmth next to me."

His words caused a blush to rise to my cheeks. "I've missed you as well. Unfortunately, the circumstances we find ourselves in prevent us from being together as we desire."

"Mark my words, a day will come when everything will change. That is my promise to you." His smile, full of passion, narrowed the distance between us. "But for now, let's cherish every moment we have away from the watchful eyes of others." He wrapped his arms firmly around my lower back, pulling me to him, and with an intense warmth, he kissed me deeply.

His lips were soft yet demanding, a perfect balance of tenderness and desire.

As we embraced, I could feel his heartbeat matching the rhythm of mine. Every touch, every caress sent shivers down my spine, awakening a hunger inside me. I moaned as his hands, strong and gentle, explored the contours of my body, leaving a trail of warmth in their wake. With each passing second, the intensity grew, and the world outside our embrace seemed to fade further away.

At that moment, we decided to break free from the shackles of time and dive deep into the realms of love. When our lips finally separated, we exchanged a smile filled with understanding—a mute vow that someday, we would be able to savor our love completely.

Enzuk grinned. "I love the taste of your lips."

He leaned down, his breath skimming over my skin, sending a cascade of shudders down my spine as his fingers traced the delicate contours of my neck. His hands, firm and demanding, roamed my back with possessiveness. "And your body," he murmured, "is nothing short of exquisite."

I playfully slid my hands up and down his muscular chest, eliciting a satisfied growl from him.

"I should take you to bed and ravish you," he whispered, adding a humorous tone to his words.

Enzuk halted abruptly. His ears flickered, and his blue eyes dilated with urgency. Before a word could escape my lips, he pressed his hand firmly over my mouth and, with deft movements, whisked me into the embrace of a neighboring tree, shrouding us within its sheltering branches.

With our gazes fixed downwards through the branches, a vexed Omna guard wandered below, anxiously scanned the surroundings. His narrowed eyes caught sight of the abandoned pail, which he swiftly lifted from the ground. My eyes widened in anxiousness. Was he searching for me? I stole a quick glance at Enzuk, who appeared to share my thoughts. "Wait here," Enzuk whispered.

Enzuk leaped down, landing with a jolt on the ground, completely taking the guard by surprise. "May I be of assistance? It seems you've lost your way," he remarked, his tone slightly mocking.

"Commander," the guard addressed the superior with a deep sense of reverence. "Forgive me for not noticing your presence sooner. I-I didn't see you up there. I'm not lost, just searching for a human. She went out and hasn't come back yet. This bucket belongs to her. It seems we might have a runner on our hands."

"A runner? You should know better than to think a mere human could make it far in our land. But, this human... does she happen to have brown hair? A good body, perhaps?" he smirked, with a tone of amusement. I rolled my eyes.

The guard hesitated, his head nodding slightly. "Um, I think that she-"

"Don't answer that," Enzuk cut him off abruptly, his gaze narrowing, "I did see a female human out here a little bit ago. She was holding that pail. But I reassigned the human to a different job. It seems she forgot her pail when she left. Don't waste your time looking for her. I have a new mission for you. Our borders at the back are under threat from rogue Wodines. They've been crossing our boundaries repeatedly. It's a common problem during this season, but with each trespass, they grow bolder. I expect you to handle it."

The guard appeared annoyed at being assigned such a task, but reluctantly agreed. "Yes, sir."

Enzuk's voice carried a commanding tone as he ordered, "Make sure it happens immediately."

The guard let out a sigh and replied, "Yes, commander."

After the guard took his leave, Enzuk lingered for a while, ensuring that there were no more prying eyes around. With a grin on his face, he climbed back up the tree to join me.

"That was a close call," I remarked.

"Indeed. But you see, I hold a higher position than him. A man of his stature would never dare to defy my commands."

I grinned and said, "Maybe I should get back to work, just to be on the safe side. I don't want to let Melxa down, especially since we're already in a precarious situation. Plus, I constantly feel like someone's keeping an eye on me."

Enzuk chuckled and playfully buried his nose in my hair, saying, "You're right, you are being watched. Always, being watched Isabella."

I grinned mischievously and replied, "Oh really? And who might that be? Are you the one keeping tabs on me, Enzuk?"

Enzuk's eyes twinkled with amusement as he teasingly whispered, "Perhaps I am. But don't worry, you're in good hands. I like what I see." Enzuk's warm gaze met mine, and he squeezed my hand reassuringly. His gaze turned serious. "I know it's hard, being on Novis. And I do know what you mean about being watched. But you're doing great. Just remember, we're in this together."

"I know. I'm just trying to make sure I don't mess up again. Like…that night."

"That night was not your fault, Isabella."

"It still happened."

He sighed. "Yes, but you shouldn't blame yourself for what happened. You are strong and capable. Don't let it get to you. The Omna should be ashamed of their actions, not you."

I chuckled, feeling a deep flush creeping onto my cheeks. "When did you start defending humans against your people?" I asked, my tone teasing.

His eyes shimmered with fervor. "Since I fell in love with one," he replied before pressing his lips against mine. Our tongues danced, exploring the depths of each other's mouths, and a soft moan escaped my lips as his touch caressed my body.

As we pulled away, our breaths mingling in the air, I couldn't help but smile. The flush on my cheeks had deepened, but this time it was not from embarrassment or amusement. It was a flush of joy, of knowing that I had found someone who saw me for who I truly was, and loved me all the more for it. "I love you," I whispered.

Enzuk's smile warmed my heart as he spoke, "I love you too. Being with you is a dream come true," he said, his voice filled with affection. "One day, we will not hide. We will be free to be together. I will make it happen. Do you trust me?"

"Yes. I trust you Enzuk."

The anticipation of our future together made my heart race with excitement. As I nestled in his embrace, I cherished the feeling of his arms around me, longing for the intimacy we shared on our first night. I yearned for the raw connection of our bare bodies colliding, craving the sensation of him consuming me entirely. I longed to scream his name with unbridled passion, indulging in endless hours of unadulterated pleasure by his side.

Enzuk chuckled. "You aren't very good at hiding your desire for pleasure, Isabella."

My eyes widned. "W-what?"

"Your scent is frangrant. I can tell you are ready for pleasure."

I blushed and scoffed. "You know, I'm not sure I like the fact that you can…can know that."

Enzuk laughed. "So it's true. You want me right now." I shook my head.

"We can't."

"That's not answer," he said as he tail wrapped around me possessively. "If you can't say it, I'll make you scream it," he grinned. My eyes widened as another wave of desire sparked within me.

"I-I do. I want you. In the worst way." I averted my eyes away from his.

"But?" Enzuk stroked one of my breasts and I stifled a moan.

"B-but, I should get back to work. I don't want to draw any more undue attention to us." I knew now wasn't the time for such actions. I still had responsibilities, and I had been away for far too long. It was only a matter of time before someone else came searching for me.

Enzuk chuckled. "I hope you won't be this difficult when we are wed."

I smiled at him. "I won't. I look forward to when we can be free to do as we please."

Enzuk's lips gently touched the crown of my head, a gesture that filled me with warmth and affection. "Isabella," he began, his voice tinged with a hint of seriousness. "There is something I do need to tell you, now that we have a moment."

I straightened my posture, my curiosity piqued by his words. "What is it?" I asked, my eyes fixed on his face.

A flicker of hesitation crossed Enzuk's eyes before he continued, "You remember that I promised to never leave or take any action without informing you first."

My heart skipped a beat, a sudden wave of unease washing over me. Did he just mention... leaving? My heart raced as I blinked nervously. "Leave?" I echoed, seeking clarification.

"Well. It depending on how you feel about it," he said, his expression serious.

"How I feel about it? I don't want you to leave. What do you mean by leave? Leave where?" I asked, my voice filled with concern.

"My brother, Japher, has asked me to accompany him on a trip to obtain a gift. He's planning to propose to his mate and wants to make it truly special. It's tradition to provide one's mate with a gift when proposing."

"Isn't that what a ring is for?" I questioned, trying to understand.

He chuckled softly. "In our culture, it is traditional to give our partners a unique and rare gift, one that distinguishes them from the rest."

"Do you really have to go away to do that?" I pressed, my desire for him to stay evident in my voice.

"He has invited me to join him on this quest. However, my departure is not a necessity, especially if it displeases you. That's precisely why I sought to discuss it with you before committing to an answer. I have no intention of causing you any distress."

I thought for a moment. "How long would you be gone?"

"If we travel quickly, which I believe we will, it will only be a week or less. However, as I said, if you don't want me to go, I can decline," he offered, his eyes filled with sincerity.

I let out a deep breath as I pondered Enzuk's departure. Over the past few days, we hadn't had much time alone, and the idea of him leaving filled me with fear. What if something went wrong? What if I found myself in need of his protection?

Enzuk gently held my chin, tilting it upwards to meet his gaze. "Isabella, I won't leave if you don't feel safe. Your well-being is my utmost concern. You know this."

I shook my head. I didn't want to hold Enzuk back, even if it meant me being uncomfortable for a few days.

Enzuk's eyes searched mine, his concern evident. "Talk to me," he urged gently, his voice filled with genuine care. "Tell me what you want. Anything you say, I will do it."

My heart ached at his unwavering support, and I took a deep breath before speaking my truth. "Well. He is your brother. And, it's seem rather important. I-I think you should go," I admitted, my voice trembling slightly. His brow furrowed in confusion, and I could sense his genuine surprise.

"Why?" he asked, his voice laced with genuine curiosity. "The very thought of me leaving seemed to scare you a moment ago. Even now, I can sense your terror. Why do you say you want me to go, when I can sense your fear?"

"Because, I want you to go with your brother. I don't want you to miss the journey with him. And I want you to do because I believe in you. I know you will come back to me. And your brother's journey must be important." I explained. "I don't want to hold you back," I finally managed to say.

Enzuk's expression softened. "But this is not about my brother, Isabella. Not to me, it's not. It's about you. Whatever choice you make is not you holding me back. I want you to feel safe. We made the choice to do things together. Leaving without your blessing is not something I wish to do."

"I want you to go. I will be fine." I smiled at him. "Where is this place anyways? Where will your journey to?"

He sighed. "It's called Arcturus mountain. It is said to hold the rare Rubix flower, a bloom so extraordinary that people are willing to travel great distances to find it."

I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at his words. "A flower? You will travel that far for a flower?" I questioned, unable to fully comprehend the extent of his dedication.

His eyes sparkled as he explained, "Not just any flower. Rubix flowers are no ordinary blossoms. They possess a rare longevity, lasting for years on end. Legends even speak of their potential healing powers, and some ancient humans believed that they held the key to defying the passage of time."

"You mean it stopped old age?" I raised a brow.

"That's what the stories say."

My mind whirled with the implications of his words. The possibility of a flower that could grant long life to humans seemed like a tale spun from the realms of fantasy. Yet, there was a part of me that yearned to believe in the magic of such a discovery.

"But," he added, his voice filled with a hint of skepticism, "it has never been proven. They are just stories passed down through generations."

"Well. I hope you find it. The sooner you do, the sooner you can return home. When would you leave?"

"If I were to go, it would be before the sun rises tomorrow. I told Japher I would give him my decision tonight. I wanted to speak with you first."

I nodded. "Thank you for including me."

Enzuk's smile widened. "I promised to do so. Together. Remember?"

"Yes," I smiled. I placed my hand on his cheek. "Thank you. What will I do without you here to watch me and whisk me away into trees?"

He grinned. "Well. There is one other thing you have to decide. I didn't like that idea of you being alone while I was away. So…I organized a special assignment for you during my absence, if you are willing" he said. My interest piqued at his words.

"A special task?" I inquired.

"Yes," he nodded, the corners of his mouth tilting upward with reassuring warmth. "I've spoken with Melxa already. You're to be a companion to Japher's mate during our expedition. I trust this won't be a burden? It's meant to ensure you're protected and sparred from the more burdensome tasks."

A rush of anxiety flooded through me. "But—but how can I? I'm utterly unversed in the ways of an Omna lady. Their tongue is alien to me," I stammered, my voice trailing into vulnerability. My hands trembled slightly, revealing the whirl of emotions within. "I have no idea how to be a companion to an Omna woman."

Enzuk's smile remained. "True. But you are a fast learner. And the language will not be an issue. The scientist in you will appreciate that humans who assist royalty are granted the ability to understand the Omna language through a transplant. I have spoken to Melxa about it, and he agrees that a transplant can be given to you. You will be able to understand the Oman language."

I slightly smirked. "Melxa will give me a transplant? I'll be able to understand any Omna that speaks?"

He nodded. "Yes. While you serve royalty, you can be granted a transplant. This is not a decision I am running by Aro or anyone else other than Melxa. This will stay between us. We are getting by on a technicality."

"Will the female that I am to assist know that I have this transplant?"

"Yes. She will know. It's a custom. But, there is no reason for you to explain why or how you got it. Also, the woman's name is Alica. She is kind-hearted and will likely appreciate your friendship while Japher is gone. She will treat you well. However, be cautious not to divulge any information about us, as she tends to pry. But I believe you will enjoy being her companion. Your duties will involve attending to her daily needs. Simply fulfill her requests."

The thought of a new adventure and the chance to forge a bond with a female Omna filled me with a mix of anticipation and nervousness. It would be something I would have to adapt to quickly. But with Enzuk's assurance and Alica's supposed kindness, I felt a glimmer of hope that this special task could be a rewarding experience.

Still…I wondered…"What if she doesn't...approve of me? What if I upset her?"

"She will approve of you. Moreover, she was the one who convinced Japher to proceed with this."

"What do you mean?"

"I had to run it by Japher and Alica just to see if it was a possible assignment for you. Japher had doubts about you being her companion. He knows you are new on Novis and he doesn't trust you. However, Alica insisted. She remembered you from the night of the celebration. She told Japher she would like your company if it was possible. I told Alica it was just a hamrless suggestion, and would need to run it by Melxa first. But she seemed to be excited about having you with her. So, if you're willing to give it a shot, I will inform Melxa. The decision is yours."

Maybe being a companion to Alica was worth a try. It could also provide me with a much-needed distraction while Enzuk was away. Perhaps, in the process, I would even forge a new alliance, someone I could rely on and share some of my experiences with.

As I contemplated the possibilities, I couldn't help but feel a surge of determination. This was an opportunity to grow, to learn from Alica and her unique perspective on life. It was a chance to broaden my horizons and expand my understanding of the Novis and the Omna people.

And besides...I couldn't possibly let the chance to comprehend the intricacies of the Omna language slip away, especially when technology offered a means to achieve it.

I nodded with a smile. "I think, I'll take this chance."

"You are certain?"

"Yes. I think it could be a positive experience. I've always had a curiosity about the people of Novis. And if Alica is kind, being her companion could provide a great opportunity to learn more about the Omna people."

Enzuk's smile widened. "You know, those who assist royalty not only get language transplants, but also dress better. You also enjoy more freedom. You'll be given tasks that involve traveling and accompanying her wherever she goes."

"In that case, I'm definitely on board."

"It's just for a week, and upon my return, I expect your undivided attention." Enzuk flashed me a smile.

"You're already feeling jealous, and you haven't even departed yet?"

"Yes. Alica is just a cover. Something to keep you occupied and safe while I am away. But you belong to me, and I won't allow anyone else to capture your attention or bring a smile to your face. That's my responsibility. Don't forget about me in your new assignment."

I placed my hand to his face. "If you are wondering…the answer is yes. I will miss you too, Enzuk. But until you return, I am happy to fulfill my new assignment. Thank you for always finding ways to pleasantly surprise me."

"I aim to continue surprising you," he murmured, the vibration of his voice tickling my skin as he laid a feather-light kiss upon my neck, "at every turn and twist of fate."

A playful giggle escaped from between my lips. Yet, as I peered beyond the safe encircle of Enzuk's arms, a peculiar silhouette on the horizon snatched my attention, tugging my brows into a knot of concern.

"What's wrong?" His voice stilled, tensed with the shift in my mood.

"Do you see that?" My finger pointed toward the enigma in the distance

"What specifically?"

"There—it's a structure, an isolated one. Why does it stand so alone?"

Enzuk's gaze followed my questioning stare. "Oh. You mean that separate realm?"

I nodded, my pulse throbbing with curiosity. "Yes. It looks so... cut off from everything else. Why? What is it?"

Turning back to face me, his eyes softened with the weight of secrets. "That fortress belongs to Aro—his sanctum. A place where summons are as scarce as rain in a drought. No one ventures there, unless specifically summoned."

"Have you ever been summoned?"

He shook his head. "None of us Omna have, save for my father. He was called upon once, maybe twice."

"Your father?" I asked, feeling the story thicken around us.

"Yes. Aro and he are old allies. They share some kind of bond. They have been friends since ancient times, even before the ancient wars. That's the only reason I feel he was allowed to go to that side of the realm."

"And what does Aro do, cloistered in such solitude?" My gaze returned to the distant castle, the mystery of it beckoning my imagination.

"A question that murmurs in the winds," Enzuk mused. "I can't really say what he does there. No one can, and my father does not speak of it. Yet one thing is clear: stepping foot into Aro's domain uninvited is a sure passage to the grave."

"But what about… humans?" The question slipped from my lips. "I thought he…uses humans. Doesn't he use humans to meet his needs?"

Enzuk hesitated, considering his words before a slow breath left him. "If he has, I've not seen nor heard of any human being summoned to that part of the realm. It's possible that he does the induling down in our part of the realm before returning to his part."

"You have never seen Aro with any human?"

"Not really. He's very private. He says his bed is never empty and that he enjoys the pleasure that humans afford. I suppose he wants to keep which human he uses private."

I frowned. I would have thought someone would have seen Aro with a human if it was a common occurrence.

"Ok. But, why is access to that side of the Realm restricted? Doesn't anyone wonder why he doesn't allow anyone over there?"

"When I was younger, I once questioned my father about that. He explained that Aro is a man who values his solitude, and thus he created a realm where he could be alone. That realm was not always in existence; it was something Aro himself created after the ancient wars. My father described Aro as a complex individual who has experienced significant loss in his life. That realm was established to allow him to reflect on these losses and seek inner peace."

I nodded, my curiosity simmering beneath the surface. "And you've never once felt the pull to discover what lies in that forbidden stretch of the kingdom?"

Enzuk's gaze met mine, a flicker of contemplation passing through his eyes. "I suppose the thought hardly ever crossed my mind," he admitted, his voice a low murmur. "The tales I grew up with drew clear lines—those lands are Aro's dominion, strictly off-limits." His glance drifted away, as if he could see the invisible barriers erected by tradition and fear.

"Do you..." I hesitated, my gaze flickering with a spark of concern, "do you think he is hiding something?"

Enzuk let out a laugh, but it wasn't devoid of warmth. "Aro? Hiding something?" He shook his head, strands of his hair catching the light, dancing with his mirth. "No. Aro is a tapestry of complexities, true, but deceit is not a thread he weaves into his dealings. He is as open as the vast skies with his people." He paused, his laughter fading into a more somber reflection. "I trust in his need for solitude. My father said, that the ancient wars… they left their scars. " He looked at me again. "Do you feel he is up to something?"

I shook my head. "I really couldn't give you an answer. I'm not familiar with him the way you are. It just strikes me as odd that no one is permitted in that section of the kingdom."

"I can see that glint in your eyes," he said softly. "That curious look, alive with wonder. I recognize it, you know." He paused, lost for a brief moment in remembrance. "It's the same look you had when I first spoke to you on Earth." Before I could respond, Enzuk gently pressed a kiss to my forehead. "Don't trouble yourself over it. And make sure you don't go prying," he warned with a playful smile. "Aro can be unforgiving and ruthless when he chooses to be."

"I wouldn't even know where to start if I wanted to get there, Enzuk."

"That's for the best. I want you to promise me that you won't attempt to go there. Absolutely no expeditions."

I chuckled and asked, "Are you worried that I might discover something?"

Enzuk gave me a serious look and said, "Isabella, you shouldn't underestimate Aro. I've witnessed his anger only a few times. There are very few things that can make him that angry, but venturing into his territory is definitely one of them."

I nodded. "I understand. I won't push the limits." I smiled, and Enzuk smiled back.

"Hopefully you'll be occupied with Alica. She'll need someone to keep her company while Japher is gone." Enzuk held me tightly as he guided us down the tree and back to the ground. He added, "I'll inform Melxa that we've talked and that you're ready for your new task."

I felt a mix of nerves and excitement regarding my new assignment. But at the same time, I was eager to uncover additional information about Aro's enigmatic, off-limits kingdom – perhaps Alica could be persuaded to divulge a few secrets.

Aro...what are you up to? I wonder...Do we want more of Aro's story? Also if you missed the first installment of his story...see chapter 12.

Please review. Thank you so much everyone! Stay tune as we unravel this jumble of mysteries and secrets!