Chapter 17

A/N: Hello everyone. Thank you so much for reading and providing your feedback. I so appreciate your thoughts!

Some of you have been spot on…and others I just loved reading your thoughts.

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

"The truth will set you free. But not until it is finished with you." —David Foster Wallace

ENZUK POV

We finally arrived back in the heart of Novis. My father dismounted from Joron and affectionately patted his neck. Similarly, I dismounted from my Chullin, Ti'ku.

Alica, Rosalina, and Esme were predictably there to greet us. Japher turned a shade of red as Alica rushed to him, enveloping him in an exuberant hug. Emmico, without any hesitation, swept Rosalina into his arms, his joy palpable.

I watched my mother approach and plant a kiss on my cheek before making her way to my father. Their strong, enduring bond was evident. The joyous atmosphere surrounding our return filled the air. While my brothers reveled in the affection of their mates, I sought out the one who brought light to my life—my mate.

Isabella stood a little apart, her hands neatly clasped before her. Her dark brown hair contrasted with her fair complexion, and the mere thought of her in my bed, blissfully surrendering to passion, sent a rush through me. I was jarred from my musing by a firm hand on my shoulder—my father's.

"Enzuk, it seems Japher and Alica don't require Isabella for the rest of the day," he observed, nodding toward Japher and Alica as they hurried off.

Alica likely had a soothing bath prepared for him, as did the other women for their men—except Isabella. Yet, her mere presence was satisfying enough for me; the ritual was unnecessary.

"Why don't you take her back to Melxa?" my father suggested.

"Yes," Emmico chimed in with a mischievous smirk. "You're not otherwise occupied, brother. See to the human, while we enjoy the company of our mates."

However, Rosalina nudged him in disapproval. "Emmico," she scolded softly.

"What?" Emmico retorted, a bit defensive. "He hasn't found a mate yet. It's only right he attends to other matters while we cherish ours." Rosalina shot him a stern look. He responded with a knowing smirk. "Apologies, brother," Emmico conceded. "I didn't mean it that way. I just meant that you don't have a mate... yet."

I let out a knowing smirk. "No worries. And no need to tiptoe around my feelings, brother. Enjoy your mate. I'll take care of the human," I said, brushing past him. Isabella pressed her lips together, struggling to contain a smile, but the blush that graced her cheeks was unmistakable. It was a beautiful sight.

I gestured for her to lead the way, and we proceeded as though I were escorting her back to the labs. However, once we were out of view, I whisked her around a concealed corner and pressed my lips fiercely to hers. She kissed me back with fervor, uttering soft moans while my fingers threaded through her hair. Only when I reached the rise of her breasts did I pause, breaking our intense embrace to plant a trail of kisses down her neck.

I held onto one of her breasts and gently rubbed it, savoring the sound of her pleasurable moans. My tongue flicked out, tracing a path from between her breasts, up her neck, and finally to her ear, where I playfully nibbled. She let out a soft whimper in response.

"Yes," she whispered, "Enzuk," exhaling the word. "Please," she urged, pressing her body against mine. I could smell her arousal, see her readiness. I smiled at her beauty, yearning to take her then and there, but the watchful public eye held me back.

I chuckled. "Come with me," I whispered in her ear. She tightened her grip on me, shaking her head. Her eyes, wild with passion, pleaded for release.

"No. I want you. Please."

"Patience, human," I said with a smirk.

Her cheeks were flushed, her brows furrowed in irritation. I took her hand and led her through a secret passage to the city's outskirts, to a place where the forest grew wild and hidden paradises lay for those who knew the paths.

Isabella climbed onto my back, and we navigated the forest I knew intimately since birth. Reaching a secluded cave atop a waterfall, I allowed Isabella to slide off. She absorbed the grandeur of the surroundings.

"Wow," she breathed. "This is beautiful."

"It is," I agreed, though my gaze wasn't on the scenery. I led her to a cave corner with a small cistern. "When the sun's at its peak, it warms this part of the cave. By now, the water's heated by the sun-warmed rocks."

She smiled. "Honoring your traditions?"

"I care less about rituals and more about seeing you nude." I drew her in close. "And here, it's private. Far superior to a bathhouse," I whispered.

She laid her hands on my chest. "Wait," she interjected. "I have something for you."

A curious arch formed over my brow. "For me?"

She nodded, her fingers grazing a small purse at her side. I cocked my head—had she worn that all along?

"Step outside," she gestured toward the cave entrance.

I frowned. "Why?"

"I want to set up something, try something. Just go. I'll call for you when it's time."

"Time for what?" I asked.

She urged me to exit. With a sigh, I pushed further. "Tell me."

"No," she stood firm. "Come on. Just trust me," she insisted.

I sighed again and left. Curiosity gnawed at me—what was she up to in there? I entertained the thought of her undressing, a smirk playing on my lips. I hoped she was naked when I came back in.

Seated outside the cave, I awaited her call, but impatience soon won over. My desire for Isabella was overpowering; I yearned to make the most of our seclusion. I had missed her so much while I was away. All I wanted right now was her in my arms.

Bursting back inside, I halted at the sight that greeted me. Fragrant bath oils and shimmering crystals hung in the air. Tiny purple petals dotted the water's surface. My astonishment blossomed into an unbidden smile.

Where on earth had she found these luxuries? She scattered the last of the crystals into the bath, then emitted a squeak upon noticing me.

"Hey! I told you to wait outside," she exclaimed, her voice tinged with panic.

I ran my tongue over my lower lip with anticipation. "It seems you're honoring tradition as well. How did you come by those salts?"

"I didn't steal them, if that's what you're thinking," she deflected, evading my gaze.

"Is that a fact?" I replied.

"Yes. And that's all I'll tell you," she smirked.

"Hmm. Perhaps I can persuade you to confess," I answered, fingers working at my shirt buttons.

She hurried over, her hands capturing mine. "Wait," she insisted, gazing up at me, "let me do that."

A low growl rumbled in my throat.

This woman was my ultimate weakness. I raised my hands in surrender as she slowly undressed me. She was absolutely irresistible. The desire I felt for her in that moment was undeniable as she slid my pants down. Looking up at me from her kneeling position, I struggled to control my primal urges. But, when she touched my member, nearly lost all control.

"God, Isabella, I missed you," I said, pulling her close against my bare skin. My hands traveled up her side, taking her dress with them, and I quickly stripped away her undergarments, practically tearing them off in my eagerness. She gasped when I lifted her in my arms, bridal style, and carried her to the bath perfumed with fragrant scents.

She moaned as we waded into the warm water together, allowing it to swirl around and engulf us. I kissed her forehead, our naked bodies melding together in the water.

"I love this," I said, gesturing to the bath. "I thought I'd surprise you, but you've managed to surprise me instead."

She smirked. "I'm glad. It's a tradition in Omna, after all."

I marveled at her full breasts, luscious lips, and damp curls as she moved gracefully around me and positioned herself behind me. A wave of pleasure washed over me as she ran her fingers through my hair, humming a soft tune.

I let out a contented sigh as I leaned back against her chest, closing my eyes. She was the perfect woman, and I couldn't have asked for anyone better. I sat there for a considerable amount of time, just enjoying her touch and soft voice. But I wasn't just after my pleasure this evening, I was after hers too.

Eventually, I sat up and grabbed her from behind me, allowing her to face me. I spread her legs and nestled myself between them, my hands caressing her shapely backside. Did I mention that I adored the fact that she was human and didn't possess a tail? I loved that about my mate. Her uniqueness compared to me only made me love her more.

I leaned in closer, planting soft kisses on her neck and gently nibbling at the skin beneath her ear. She let out a moan, tangling her fingers in my hair and guiding my head towards her chest. With a chuckle, I alternated between her breasts, sucking and playfully biting.

"Oh, God," she breathed, tilting her head back and pressing her body against mine. I slipped two fingers inside her, causing her to gasp and her breath to quicken. "Yes," she whispered. "Please." She was eager for pleasure. I entered her, eliciting a scream of pleasure as I drew her close to me. Our bodies moved together effortlessly, creating ripples in the water.

I eagerly explored her body with my mouth, savoring her sweet skin as I brought her to the brink of ecstasy repeatedly.

"Please Enzuk," she pleaded for her release. "Please!"

I thrust deeper and took her over the edge. When she finally reached her climax, she screamed my name so loudly that it filled me with pleasure. It didn't take long for me to follow suit.

Exhausted, she closed her eyes and breathed heavily as we both tried to catch our breath. I held her close, her head resting against my chest, feeling her heart rate gradually slow down. I had never experienced such intense pleasure and joy before. I knew I would never tire of being with Isabella. I leaned back against the rock, letting out a contented sigh with a smile on my lips. Isabella wrapped her arms around me, her erratic heartbeat gradually calming.

I whispered, "I love you," as I rubbed her back with my other hand.

She replied with a sleepy mumble, "I love you."

Smiling, I withdrew and pulled her close against my chest. Gently, I stroked her hair and caressed her body, washing and massaging it tenderly. She grinned, relaxing into my touch as if granting permission.

"How was your trip?" she asked drowsily.

"Good," I replied, "Long, but fulfilling. Assisting Japher in his quest to find what he needed for Alica was gratifying. What about you? How was the time with Alica?"

She nodded contentedly. "I enjoyed it. Being away from the labs was a nice change."

"I thought you might," I said. "Did they treat you well?"

"Oh yes, everyone was kind," she said. "I joined Alica, Esme, and Rosealina on several occasions, mostly for wedding preparations."

"Ah," I responded. "And is it from those outings that you got the salts?"

She playfully retorted, "I said I won't tell you."

I playfully pinched her beneath the water, eliciting a startled laugh from her.

"No. It's a secret," she insisted.

"But we agreed to be open with each other," I reminded her with a smirk.

"This is different," she declared firmly.

Chuckling, I asked, "Then to which secrets does our agreement apply? Do you have any others?" My teasing tone faded as her expression grew serious. "Isabella?" I inquired, concerned. "What's wrong?"

She turned to face me, a question in her eyes. "Can I ask you something?"

"Of course," I encouraged her.

"Do—do you still—" she started, then hesitated. I gently lifted her chin with my finger.

"What is it?" I encouraged her. "Do I still what?"

"Do you still harbor feelings for... Tanya?"

The grimace on my face was instant, revulsion skittering through me at the mention of her name.

"Tanya? No, absolutely not! In fact, I never harbored any romantic feelings for her to begin with."

"Yet, she was the one who went with you to the banquet, correct? That was her?"

I gave a reluctant nod. "Yes, that was her. But she was merely there for show."

"And after your return from Earth... you both took a bath together?"

I exhaled wearily, understanding that this detail must have been gleaned during her conversations with Alica. "Yes, that happened. It was out of tradition and uncertainty about where we stood, nothing more. My feelings for her had no part in it. I viewed it as a gesture of respect."

"What do you mean by that?" she inquired.

I sighed again. "Before my mission to Earth, it was somewhat expected that Tanya and I would be together. She was insistent about me being her mate, but I didn't share her feelings. Still, I was open to exploring the possibility. If we were compatible, I would have been content to claim her as a mate. But my mission to Earth took precedence. So, I didn't pursue a romantic relationship or bond with Tanya. I told her we could assess our relationship when I returned. Her distress over my departure for another mission, rather than establishing a potential bond, led me to promise I'd consider it upon my return. This was all before I met you."

"So, you had feelings for her after you returned from Earth?" She asked.

"No. But she held me to my promise when I came back, parading our relationship as if I had committed to being her mate. She also pleaded for me not to reject her advances immediately, fearing the embarrassment after boasting of our bond to everyone. Moreover, one day, when I returned from a hunt with my brother, she was there to welcome me with a bath."

"And you accepted," she said.

"I was unsure about us, Isabella. You must understand I have never had a mate before. And I had never envisioned that my mate would be human. Not that I have any regrets—I am profoundly grateful you are my mate and I love you immensely. It was just that, at that time, I was confused. I had always imagined being with an Omna woman, given that bonds with humans are forbidden on Novis. Now, I understand my feelings for you are true."

"But. Did you—have you and she done what we just did?"

"No! Absolutely not. Tanya is not my mate. While I allowed her displays of affection for a while, everything changed after you and I bonded. Since then, I've had no involvement with her. I desire no such connection with her. You alone are my mate, Isabella—no one else."

She smiled at me. "Promise? You have no regrets or doubts?"

I frowned. "No. One mate, remember?" I pressed my forehead to hers. "Why? Do you have regrets or doubts?"

She shook her head quickly. "No, I don't," she said. "I love you."

"So if that... other human... Daren were here... you wouldn't want him?"

She laughed. "Never. Daren and I were friends, but nothing more. He wanted more, but I couldn't." Her eyes locked with mine. "It felt as though you had already claimed my heart on Earth. It was strange; I didn't understand my feelings either. All I knew was that I wanted you. I think even Daren sensed it."

I smiled. "He did want you. I could see it in the way he looked at you on Earth. But like Tanya, he was trying too hard. And I won't lie, I rather enjoyed how he grew jealous of me. Even though he is human, and I am Omna, we are both males. We understand when we've lost a competition for a woman. He knew I had a stronger connection with you." I gave her a playful glance.

"Daren is, or was, still a good friend to me," she said.

"Yes, I know. He cared for you. But, in the end, you're mine." I smiled. "You always have been and always will be my queen." I kissed her forehead.

"Enzuk," she said.

"Hmm?" I replied.

"I-um, well, we aren't supposed to keep secrets."

I frowned. "I'm not. I've told you the entire truth. Ask me anything, and I will tell you."

"Yes, and I am thankful for that. But now, I have something to tell you," she said, her expression apprehensive.

"What is it? Did something happen while I was away? Did someone hurt you?" I asked, my voice strained with anger.

"No, nothing like that. I—well, you remember how you said Omna and humans cannot be together?" I nodded. "Well, does that apply to every Omna?"

"Yes, it's a way of life ever since Aro came to power. After the disagreement between the Omna and humans. After the great wars and the betrayal of the humans."

I remembered my father's words about Aro—if they were true, the humans weren't the only ones to blame. Aro had lusted after something that wasn't his—a human queen. When he couldn't have her, he sought revenge on all humans. He believed the human queen was his destined mate, but did they ever bond? My father wasn't certain they completed the bond. The tale of Aro my father shared needed more reflection.

"Well," Isabella continued, "I, um, went to Aro's forbidden castle," she confessed, her head bowed.

"What?" I was flabbergasted.

"I know you warned me against it. It was dangerous, and I shouldn't have, but I did."

"You did what?" I asked, sitting up straighter, hoping I'd misunderstood her.

"I went to Aro's forbidden castle."

Shaking my head incredulously, I said, "W-how? Aro's barriers are too potent for a human to breach."

"I found a way through a labyrinth," she replied.

I frowned.

She continued. "Waiting in the gardens while Esme, Alicia, and Rosalina visited a friend, I encountered this shrub labyrinth. I spoke to it, and it seemed to understand. When I asked it to lead me to Aro's castle, I never imagined it would, but it did."

My eyes widened as she spoke, my heart fearing it wasn't just a dream of hers. "Go on," I urged nervously, fearing Aro might have caught her.

"When I got there, the entrance to his castle stood unguarded, the doors wide open," she said.

Of course, Isabella, guided by her insatiable curiosity, had entered. I sighed irritably. Despite my warnings, despite the boundaries I'd set for her safety, she trespassed into the greatest peril.

"You went inside?" I needed confirmation.

She nodded, and I huffed in frustration. "Isabella," I said, "Why? I warned you to avoid Aro and his domain." I ran my fingers through my hair. "Do you realize the risk? If Aro found you, he would not have hesitated to kill you. And if he had…" The thought was unbearable.

"I'm sorry," she whispered.

"You endangered yourself, ventured where I cannot shield you. Isabella, before I left, you promised me..." The rage I felt was born of fear for her. If Aro had harmed Isabella, nothing would prevent me from seeking vengeance; she was my world. Didn't she understand that? Turning away, I attempted to quell my turmoil.

"Enzuk, please," she implored. "My curiosity got the better of me, but—"

"Stop being curious!" I seethed. "I cannot safeguard you if you recklessly seek out danger. We agreed to face this together; you can't act alone."

"I know," she said, her voice soft with remorse. "And I am truly sorry, Enzuk. I won't return there. But please, let me tell you what I witnessed."

What she witnessed? Alarm surged through me. Had she seen someone? Had someone seen her? She then gently placed her hand on my cheek, coaxing my gaze back to hers.

"Listen to me," she urged. "Please. I understand your anger. I'd feel the same in your place. But let me explain what I witnessed."

I let out a weary sigh. "What did you witness?"

"A female human," she revealed. I frowned in confusion. "I encountered a female human there. But she wasn't dressed like an ordinary human. She was in an exquisite gown, a crown atop her head. She didn't appear to be captive or some form of pleasure slave. She was richly attired, with a colossal wolf creature as her guard. There was music playing—piano, within Aro's castle. I followed the music and stumbled upon her. She was—a stunning woman commanding the piano, and dressed as if she were royalty."

I pondered her words. A pleasure slave was a possibility; perhaps a favored one of Aro's, hence the prosperity. But a crown? That seemed out of place. "Are you certain she wore a—"

"I'm sure of what I saw," Isabella interrupted with conviction. "She bore no resemblance to the humans from Novis."

Gazing into Isabella's eyes, I saw her certainty. "And this human," I probed, "did she notice you?"

Isabella lowered her head. "Yes. The wolf noticed me first and lunged to attack. But she intervened, summoned it by name, and it returned to her side. I fled through the labyrinth, finding my way back to the gardens I had left."

"What did this woman look like? Can you remember?" I inquired.

After a brief pause, she replied, "She had remarkably long brown hair. Yet, it was her eyes that captivated me—vivid green. She was young, strikingly youthful and almost flawless."

A human within Aro's domain? She could well be merely Aro's muse. However, what if she was something more? My father once mentioned that Aro had tried to abduct a human queen, indicating some fascination with a human at some point.

Could this woman be that queen? Isabella mentioned the crown.

My mind raced. No. Aro's quest for revenge was sparked by that queen's death. My father described how Aro's grief spiraled into madness, leading him to raise an army and obliterate every human. This woman couldn't be the same one. What was her name again?

Victoria. Queen Victoria Newton.

"Did she reveal her name?" I questioned.

"No. I barely escaped from her wolf. If she hadn't called it back, it would have caught me."

"And Aro? He was nowhere to be seen?" she shook her head.

Hmm. Would this human woman inform Aro of what she had seen? Or was Aro already aware of Isabella's intrusion into his kingdom? Perhaps he was simply waiting for the right moment to eliminate her. I sighed.

It might be time to discuss Endis with my father. If Isabella had appeared on Aro's radar, we'd have to accelerate our escape plans. At the very least, I had to ensure Isabella's safety from Aro.

But first, I needed answers—and quickly. An escape plan was also imperative. Rising from the water and allowing it to cascade off my body, I extended my hand to her.

"Come on," I urged, "we should head back. I'll take you to Melxa for the night."

Isabella pursed her lips, a hint of sadness in her expression as she accepted my hand. I longed to comfort her, but my preoccupied mind induced a grave tone in my voice. I debated whether to inform Melxa of Isabella's expedition.

He would be livid, but it might also compel him to better safeguard her in the labs. Aro had previously visited Isabella without my consent; he could very well do so again, especially if he suspected her of trespassing into his prohibited domain.

Dressing in silence, I contemplated my choices. When it was time for Isabella to mount my back, she hesitated. I faced her.

"Enzuk. I'm truly sorry. Sometimes... my curiosity overwhelms me. I sensed Aro was concealing something, and I thought I could uncover it."

I managed a strained smile. "Perhaps you did discover his secret," I replied, as I tucked her hair behind her ear. "Isabella, I'm not—well, I am upset with you per se. It's just that the thought of you in Aro's domain terrified me. I can't bear the idea of losing you. It alarms me that you went there after promising you wouldn't take such risks. I want to trust you, but you aren't honoring our agreement."

"I understand. I won't repeat it. If curiosity strikes again, I'll consult you first," she promised with a sheepishly endearing smile. "Curiosity is my weakness. I'm sorry."

With a sigh, I cupped her chin and kissed her gently. "We are in this together," I affirmed. "Stand by my side, not behind me. No more secrets or independent actions. From this point forward, we act together."

She nodded, and my smile returned.

"Don't worry. We'll unravel this mystery. I have a strategy in mind that might involve leaving Novis. I'll share the details once they're finalized." She nodded again, as she climbed on my back. Quickly I made my way through the forest and delivered her to Melxa.

Melxa shot me a reprimanding glance, the kind signaling my choices were impetuous. Yet, I dismissed his concern, securing Isabella inside her glass abode and wishing her a restful night.

Once Isabella was settled, the glass of her chamber frosted over, cloaking her from any intrusive gazes. Melxa was occupied, tinkering with the Rubix flowers I'd provided.

"I'll spare you the lecture on the riskiness of your actions," he remarked. "You're well aware of what I think."

I responded with a smirk. "I needed to see her."

"You're taking a gamble, Enzuk. Sooner or later, you'll get caught."

"I'm exercising caution," I countered. "I keep my distance to limit exposure. But Melxa, she is my mate. How can I not see her?"

Acknowledging this, Melxa said, "At least you brought her back to my lab rather leaving her in your quarters. Let's call that some semblance of progress." His focus returned to the Rubix flower, meticulously detaching petals.

Curiously, I inquired, "What's the purpose of that? I understand it's a unique flower with longevity, but what's the reason for removing the petals?"

"Rubix flowers yield potent ingredients for various remedies and balms. I experiment with their properties," he explained, expressing gratitude for the flowers I'd gathered.

"Do you ever provide those flowers to your human subjects?" I probed further. "Legend indicates they possess regenerative qualities for human cells. Have you seen any evidence to support that?"

"There seems to be some validity to those claims," Melxa conceded, painstakingly remaining ambiguous on the potential life-extension attributes. "I've yet to reach a definitive answer."

I hastily suggested, "Could we perhaps test it on Isabella? Could you prepare some for her?"

Melxa offered a friendly smile. "I see no reason why not."

"Could you manage that soon?" I pressed.

A crease formed on Melxa's brow. "What's the urgency?"

"Just a precautionary measure," I exhaled.

Melxa ceased his work. "A precaution against what?"

Uncertainty filled my thoughts. "Well, if a sudden departure became imperative. I'd want some on hand for her."

"Departure?" His tone sharpened with concern. "You're speaking of leaving Novis?"

"Yes," I affirmed.

Melxa scrutinized my stance, the worry etched deeper into his expression. "I was under the impression you were still deliberating that move. Yet, it appears you've reached a decision. What's happened?" With silence as my initial response, Melxa fixed me with an intense stare. "Tell me. What has happened?"

I sighed. There was no reason not to tell Melxa. He deserved to know since he shared the responsibility of protecting her. He was, aside from me, my eyes and ears for her.

"She went there, Melxa."

"Went where?" he asked.

"To Aro's kingdom. His private realm."

Melxa's brow arched, his interest piqued. "Really?" he said.

"Yes. I know she is a curious one..."

"Very curious," he interjected, his interest more evident.

"And I know Aro's kingdom has occupied her thoughts. But I never imagined she would find a way to go there. I didn't think there was even a way she could satisfy her curiosity. There was just no way for her to... simply enter his kingdom!"

A smile flickered on Melxa's lips. "But she did? How?"

"I don't know. She told me she was in a garden and found a labyrinth of shrubs. She said she merely asked it to take her there, and it did. It transported her."

Melxa's brow arched again. "Interesting," he murmured.

I frowned at Melxa. "Melxa, why aren't you taking this more seriously? I just told you that Isabella went to Aro's kingdom. That's forbidden. She could have been caught… or worse."

"Did anyone see her?" Melxa asked.

I started to shake my head but then paused. "Wait. Yes, a woman. Isabella said she looked human with long brown hair and green eyes. She described her attire as regal, not that of a sex slave, suggesting she might be more significant. I wondered if maybe Aro has a muse and that she's it."

Melxa nodded. "This woman…did she see Isabella?"

"That's what Isabella claims. There was a large wolf guarding the woman that chased after Isabella. However, the woman called it off, which is the reason Isabella escaped."

Melxa listened with a faint smile.

"Melxa, why aren't you worried about this?" I demanded. He seemed unconcerned. Did he not understand the gravity of this?

His smile widened. "Well, it's about time someone ventured there and knew."

"Knew what?" I pressed, confused.

He stayed silent, prompting me to pry further.

"Melxa, is that woman—the human—is she more than a slave? Is she…his mate?"

Melxa met my gaze. "If I say nothing, then the answer to your questions is likely yes."

I stared into his eyes and repeated my question. "Is she his mate?" I growled.

Melxa's continued silence narrowed my eyes.

"Aro has a human mate?" I asked. Again, silence as he began mixing the Rubix flower concoction. "Has he been with her for some time?" His silence was again telling. "All those answers are yes?! You've got to be kidding me!"

Melxa sighed.

"Melxa, how could you keep this secret?"

"It wasn't mine to tell," he replied. "Just as yours is not mine to share."

"No, this is different," I asserted. "He is the ruler of Novis. Under his reign, bonds with humans are banned. That's why Isabella and I are in such a predicament. But if he has a human mate… how dare he judge me! How dare he judge anyone loving a human, when he has hidden one in the castle for... for... a long time. He could revoke the law. Yet, he hasn't. He's kept her secluded, all the while humans suffer because of his decrees."

Melxa simply looked at me, his expression unreadable, and I glared at him. "Why didn't you say anything?" I demanded.

"As I said, it was not my secret to share. Moreover, Aro would have ended my research and destroyed my lab, banishing me in the process. I've been able to continue because he relies on me—for this," he said, lifting the Rubix flower concoction.

"For his human mate," I interjected.

Melxa nodded. "Without this, she would have perished long ago."

"Why not threaten Aro with exposure? Tell him that the potions would cease if he did not come clean?" I fumed.

Melxa chuckled. "Would anyone have believed such a truth? Aro, as Lord of Novis, commands unwavering belief. Speaking out would be seen as rebellion, and few would take me seriously—you included. The only reason you believe that Aro has a human mate is because Isabella confirmed it to you, and you trust her. But I'm just one Omna, Enzuk. Keeping his secret protected my life's work."

I sighed. "Knowledge of Aro's human mate could've changed everything. It's living proof that humans and Omna can unite. Even our Lord is ensnared by a human!"

Mexla smiled faintly. "That's true. But, Enzuk, I know that secrets inevitably surface. I opted to bide my time for this one. Alone, I'm not enough to dethrone Aro."

"He should be uniting the realms, not dividing them further, especially not if he truly loves a human. Surely she wouldn't condone his betrayal of humans?"

"Enzuk—"

"No! If you won't, I will confront him. He has no right to target Isabella. I'd kill his mate before letting harm befall Isabella."

"Enzuk," Melxa cautioned, "confronting Aro is futile. You can't face him by yourself."

"Then will you stand with me?" I challenged.

"I am a scientist, not a warrior," Melxa protested. "You will need formidable allies. Have you heard of Endis?"

"My father spoke of it; during the war, he aided exiled Omna and humans in fleeing there. It's a planet Aro forgot, which offered the refugees a safe haven."

Melxa confirmed, "That's correct. You should go to Endis."

"For what purpose?" I probed.

"Those on Endis oppose Aro's rule—exiles and humans alike. They have a vendetta. Endis could be your ally in this looming conflict. Novis cannot remain untouched by war forever. To bring Aro to justice, you'll need more than just you personal resolve—you'll need support."

"Does Aro know about this vendetta on Endis?"

"He's unaware of the brewing war," Melxa stated.

"And you? How are you privy to this?"

"The Rubix potion isn't solely for his mate. Others on Endis have human companions in need. I maintain contacts there –I had friends that were exiled after Aro's decree too. Besides assistance, I'm acutely aware of their collective resentment. Another great war feels imminent."

"Aro could stop the war by coming clean," I said. "There's no reason to war, no cause for further loss of life."

"Aro needs to realize that on his own. Yet, it seems he'll have to be forced into acknowledging it. In some respects, I pity Aro. His thirst for revenge consumed him at one point, leading him to shape a reality that now, even he can't condone. That's the reason for his mate's secrecy. I believe he's at a loss on how to reverse his actions."

"It's simple. Tell Novis's citizens the truth, then reform the laws that bind us. He has a human mate! It's surely in his interest to amend the laws—an act within his power. This would liberate the rest of us with human companions as well."

Melxa nodded. "There's more. Aro's partner isn't just any human; she's a human queen, sole successor to the ancient throne."

"But…I thought she was dead. Victoria…right? I thought she was murdered," I said.

Melxa shook his head. "The conflict began with Aro's retribution against King Newton for killing Victoria. But there was child born to the king and queen—Renesmee. She is the sole offspring of King Newton and Victoria.

"And?" I asked.

"She is Aro's mate. Aro's love for her is profound. If the humans recover their queen, who can engage diplomatically, we might avoid war. She could end the conflict and influence him. Aro's hand must be forced, though. Endis must learn their queen survives, because another vengeance motive is the belief Aro killed not only the king and queen but also their daugher Renesmee. The people of Endis must realize she's alive. Relay this to Endis."

"They'll seek evidence," I countered. "Why trust my words? As an Omna from Novis, I barely hold credibility."

Melxa's smile responded. "Bring Isabella."

I shook my head. "No. That risks her safety."

"Her safety is compromised regardless. Wheather she is on Novis or not. But presenting her as your mate shows your opposition to Aro's laws."

"And then? How will that shift their views on Novis and Aro? Their vendetta for the human queen's death remains. How will that fix the anger they feel for Aro? If they believe he killed the human heir, what can Isabella and I do?"

"You can relay that she is still alive. And Isabella, can use her skills to speak to Renesmee. Even with Aro's fortress being impenetrable, Isabella infiltrated. She saw the human queen. Success once suggests a possibility of repetition. Have Isabella talk with the Renesmee, convey the turmoil among her people on Endis. Renesmee may halt the war."

"What if Renesmee refuses to halt the war? She is, after all, Aro's captive. You said that Aro loves her…but does she love him?"

Melxa nodded. "She's his mate. She holds affection for him too."

"Impossible," I said. "How then could she just sit there, secluded, while her people suffer? Before I was told to go to Earth and slaughter the humans, humans were demonized—I struggle to fathom how she missed and continues to miss Aro's schemes and views of humans. If she's aware, why hasn't she intervened and helped change the law on Novis?"

"The war on Earth was harsh, but attempts at peace were made. Humans there resisted sharing resources but peace was offered, likely due to Renesmee's influence. Aro is not known for seeking harmony with humans, yet he did with Earth. I think Renesmee holds sway over Aro. I also think that regarding Endis, Renesmee is the answer. She must show her face and present her case to her people and the bitter Omna to avert war. She must also persuade Aro to abolish his oppressive decrees. I think…deep down, Aro wants an end the laws he put in place, but he also wants to protect his mate."

Melxa continued, "I think he fears, that if he changes the laws, the Omna might turn on him and come after Renesmee. Aro is powerful, but he knows he wont be able to stand against an army of Omna should they try to impeach him. I think maintaining the laws of Novis helps him protect his mate. But it needs to stop. Endis won't settle until their kin and mates can return to Novis. Renesmee is crucial; she wields influence over both factions. Initially, you and Isabella must journey to Endis, display unity, and reveal the truth about the queen. The humans will heed it, and the Omna will honor you as a Novis warrior."

I exhaled deeply. "And you believe they'll trust me?"

"An Omna united with a human speaks volumes. Your connection with Isabella will resonate with many in Endis. Your very partnership with a human signifies your rejection of Aro's regimes."

I nodded, contemplating whether to bring my father along. He had helped many from Novis find refuge in Endis. If any of those individuals still lived, they would undoubtedly hold his word in higher regard than mine, potentially making our proposal more persuasive.

It was time to discuss the matter with him.

Did he have any knowledge regarding a long-lost child of King Newton?

A/N: Hmmm. Thanks lovely readers for following Enzuk and Isabella. The mystery continues to unravel. As always, your thoughts are valued. Please share! :) Until the next update, I'll be seeing you friends. Xoxoxo.