Chapter 21


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

Didn't want to make y'all wait too long...

"You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view… Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it."—To Kill a Mockingbird


"Ok," I said stepping closer to her place of sitting. Well first, you are the daughter of—um—" I hesitated.

"King Newton and Queen Victoria," she finished for me, her voice steady. "Yes. The rumors are true. I am their only daughter."

"Right," I said, nodding. "That would make you the only heir to the human throne of Kelus, correct?"

Renesmee glanced down at Nevarth, who lifted his head as if responding to an unspoken cue. She smiled faintly, scratching behind his ears, and the wolf's tail thumped against the floor.

"I suppose, by birth, yes I am," she admitted.

I pressed on, choosing my words carefully. "Did you know that Kelus intends to wage war against Novis, alongside the people of Endis?"

Her gaze snapped back to me, her green eyes shining with a mixture of understanding and resignation. "I am not surprised, if that is what you're asking," she replied evenly.

I frowned, my voice edged with disbelief. "You're not surprised," I repeated slowly, searching her face for any sign of doubt or hesitation. "How? But… why? If you know your people are capable of waging war against Novis, why aren't you doing something to stop it?"

I took a step closer, my tone sharpening. "You are their queen. They are your people. That means you should know what they're planning, what they're doing. And it also means you have the authority to decide whether Kelus goes to war or not."

My frustration boiled over, and I gestured toward her. "So why are you here, when you should be there, leading them? Stopping this before it's too late?"

Her silence was deafening, the weight of my words hanging in the air. She didn't answer, her expression remaining impassive.

I took a step closer, emboldened by her lack of response. "Is Aro keeping you here? Are you trapped?"

"No," she said firmly, her tone resolute. "Being here is my choice."

That answer threw me off completely. My confusion must have been plain on my face because she smirked faintly, as if amused by my reaction.

"It's your choice?" I asked, struggling to make sense of her words. "You chose to leave your throne, your people, your responsibility… for this? To be tapped here?"

"I am not trapped. And yes," she said, her voice unwavering.

"But why?" I pressed, unable to mask the frustration creeping into my tone.

Renesmee's gaze darkened, her hand stilling on Nevarth's head. For a moment, she looked as though she might lash out, but instead, she leaned back in her chair and let out a long, weary sigh.

"That," she said quietly, "is a story you may not be ready to hear."

"I am if you're willing to share," I said softly, trying to encourage her. "I mean it makes no sense, as to why you choosing to stay here with someone like…like…Aro."

Renesmee let out a deep sigh, her gaze dropping to the floor as if searching for the right words or perhaps the courage to speak them. "I know what Aro may seem like to you," she began, her voice heavy with the weight of past memories. "You probably view him the same way I did long ago. But he is not the same as he once was."

I crossed my arms, my doubt unmasked. "I know Novis hates humans. And he could undo that at any time, yet he hasn't. I also know he approved the killing of all those on Earth. Enzuk told me what he did to the ancient humans on Kelus too. I don't see how he's changed."

She nodded slightly, as though she'd expected my skepticism. "Negotiations were arranged on Earth," she said softly. "The humans didn't want peace—only war. Novis needs resources to replenish itself. Things were easier when humans and Omna had peace, but the rift has caused more than broken alliances. It has caused the planets themselves to slow in rejuvenation."

Her voice had grown so quiet that for a moment, I wasn't sure she was speaking to me at all. It felt as though she were confiding in the air, trying to make sense of it all herself. When she finally looked up, her expression sharpened, and her tone grew more resolute.

"I don't know how much of my story you know," she said, lifting her head.

"I know enough," I replied, cutting her off. "Enzuk told me everything. How you were saved from Aro as a child and how you tried to reclaim your planet. Ever since then, you've been the long-lost queen."

She nodded. "After I led a rebellion to repopulate Kelus and avenge my father and mother's deaths, as you know, Aro was there to stop me. He slaughtered my company but… kept me alive. In fact, he captured me and kept me here in his Kingdom." Her voice was steady but tinged with a bitterness that felt fresh, even though these events had clearly happened years ago.

"At the time, I was consumed by anger," she continued. "Anger at Aro, at the Omna, at everything and everyone who had taken my family and my home from me. My only wish was to kill Aro, return to Kelus, and be the queen my mother was. To rule with honor, to bring peace to my people… or so I thought."

She paused, her fingers brushing idly through Nevarth's thick fur. The wolf leaned into her touch, as though offering silent comfort.

"But time changes people," she said quietly. "Aro and I… we came to an understanding, eventually. One day, I told him how important it was for me to return to Kelus. I was surprised at how quickly he agreed to let me go. I expected him to fight me on it, but he saw how much it meant to me. I told him it was my duty to return to my people. As a ruler, he said he understood that responsibility, even if he didn't agree with my methods or motivations. I wanted to return because I had heard the rumors—whispers—that the people of Kelus still held out hope that I was alive, that one day I would return and lead them. Aro said it was my choice, that he would let me do what I wished. So I went back, thinking my return would be a welcomed gift."

"And… you weren't?" I asked, sensing where the story might be headed but unable to stop myself from asking.

"Not exactly," she said flatly. "One of the reasons I returned was because I learned that William Goodwin, my father's most trusted advisor, had taken the role of steward in my absence. Like a good steward, he'd launched massive search efforts for the long-lost heir, offering rewards for information. Since my body was never discovered, people still held out hope, and obviously people were still searching for me—they still wanted me as queen. This gave me the hope I needed to return. But I was wrong about William's intensions. He fully intended to find the long-lost heir, but for his own devious reasons. I didn't know this at time, but later I discovered he'd used those searches as a means to root out potential challengers to his authority. Apparently, impersonators had come forward over the years, claiming to be me, and I learned later that he had them secretly executed as frauds. I didn't know this at the time, all I thought was that my presence would finally end the charade. So, I wrote to him, asking for a private audience under the guise of delivering news about the true heir to Kelus."

Renesmee's voice hardened as she continued. "He agreed to meet with me and expressed great enthusiasm at learning any news about King Newton's heir. We met, as planned, in private. His advisors were present. That's when I began to tell him my story. He said he had heard my story many times from other impersonators, but because I bore a strong resemblance to my mother, he said he would humor me. But as I spoke, he started to realize the truth—that I was who I claimed to be. His smile faded, and suspicion took its place. He began to question me about where I'd been and what I had done during my absence. I gave him as little information as possible, especially about Aro, but I made it clear that my goal was to bring peace and reunite the Omna and the human race."

Her lips curled into a bitter smile. "That was the moment he turned on me. He called my words blasphemy. He said the people of Novis, especially Aro, owed Kelus a blood debt that could only be repaid in kind. He told me peace was a fantasy, that true justice would come only when Aro was dead and Kelus was avenged. He said a true queen of Kelus would know this and never pose an alliance with the Omna."

"And this William guy," I said, "he must still be in power if you are here." She nodded.

"Which explains the war," I said softly.

"Exactly," Renesmee replied, her tone firm yet laced with a tinge of regret. "He believed war was the only way forward, the only solution to our problems. I argued against him, saying it would bring nothing but more death and suffering. I reminded him that I was queen, that the throne—and the decisions that came with it—were mine by right. He had no authority to deny my pursuit of peace."

She hesitated, her expression darkening. "That's when he became... calculating. He backed off, seemingly convinced by my arguments. For a moment, I thought I'd won him over, that he might actually support me. But now, looking back, I see it differently. I think he suspected I'd spent more time with Aro than I was willing to admit. He likely assumed I'd already formed some kind of alliance with him."

Renesmee let out a slow breath as if trying to make sense of the memory. "William then asked if I trusted Aro, if I considered him a confidant. I told him the truth—I believed Aro was open to discussing peace. William seemed intrigued, even cautiously optimistic, at this idea. He suggested that I bring Aro to Kelus for such a discussion."

"Did Aro go along with that?" I asked.

She shook her head, her expression growing darker. "Aro was far more suspicious, as if he knew something I didn't. He urged me not to return to Kelus at all, warning me against trusting William. He claimed to see through William's ambitions, sensing a dangerous lust for power and questioning his true intentions. Aro was certain that going back would put me at risk."

Her gaze flickered, a hint of defiance shining through. "I told Aro it didn't matter. As queen, it was my right to return to Kelus, with or without his support. I could tell he didn't like my resolve, but he relented, saying he wouldn't stop me."

A faint smile tugged at her lips. "Of course, that didn't mean he wouldn't try to control the situation. He secretly placed spells to make it harder for me to leave without his knowledge, thinking I wouldn't notice." She tilted her head slightly, a glimmer of amusement in her eyes. "But I found ways around those spells—just as you did when you came here."

I smiled slightly at her knowing look.

"I returned to Kelus on my own," Renesmee began, her voice steady with resolve. "It was my home—my people, my responsibility. When I arrived without Aro, William seemed displeased but masked his irritation behind reassurances. He promised to support my ascension to the throne, even going so far as to propose a coronation date and announce my return to the people. For the first time in years, I felt… hopeful. I believed I could finally achieve the change I had dreamed of."

Her gaze softened, and a trace of longing crept into her voice. "If I could bring peace between the Omna and humans, everything could be restored. Bonds could be mended, alliances rekindled. Aro and I could rewrite the laws of Novis, and we'd be free to love each other openly, without fear or judgment. Humans would no longer be outcasts—they'd be seen as equals, as potential mates. All the planets could finally find peace."

She paused, the flicker of hope in her eyes dimming as reality set in.

"Aro is already Lord on Novis," I interjected. "Why doesn't he just change the laws now?"

Renesmee shook her head, her expression clouding with uncertainty. "I think he fears the chaos it would bring. Changing laws that have been in place for decades isn't as simple as making a proclamation. The people of Novis hold deeply rooted beliefs, and Aro doubts they would accept such a radical shift willingly. He worries about an uprising, and if that were to happen… I would be the one in grave danger."

She sighed, the weight of her words heavy. "I can't fight the Omna the way Aro can. And if we were forced to flee, where could we go? Endis? He'd be hunted there for what he's done to the exiles. Kelus? He doesn't trust William, and neither do I. So, in Aro's mind, maintaining the status quo is safer—for both of us."

Her voice grew firmer as she continued. "But I believed I could be the one to end the divisions. To bring change to Kelus. I thought I could bridge the rift between the human realm and Novis, invite the exiles of Endis back to their homeland, and heal the wounds of the past. I truly thought everything could return to how it once was."

"And? Why can't it?" I pressed. "Why don't you still believe that?"

Renesmee's smile dissolved, her face clouded with a haunted expression. "The night I returned to Kelus, William welcomed me warmly. We shared a meal together—broke bread, drank wine—and spoke about my vision for peace between the Omna and humans. I truly believed his support was genuine. Betrayal wasn't something I expected, especially not from my father's most trusted ally. I thought Aro's warnings were just his overprotective nature and that I could handle things on my own. But I was wrong."

Her voice faltered for a moment, and she glanced away as if reliving the memory. "That night, I was drugged. Whether it was the food or the wine, I can't say. All I know is that I became paralyzed. I could see and hear everything, but my body wouldn't respond—I couldn't move or speak."

I leaned forward, horrified yet unable to look away. "What did he do to you?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.

Her eyes met mine, and her voice dropped to a chilling whisper. "He dragged me to the dungeons and shackled me in heavy chains. Then, as I lay there helpless, he explained his plans. He didn't intend to kill me—at least, not right away. He declared that the throne was now his, but to fully secure his power, he needed me alive, for a time."

She paused, her voice tightening with emotion. "At first, I didn't understand what he meant. But then he told me about the ancient laws—laws I'd never heard of. He revealed that the crown burned him every time he tried to wear it, a sign that a rightful blood heir still lived. As long as I drew breath, the crown would reject him, and he couldn't truly claim the throne. That's why he set out to find the lost heir—not to restore them to the throne, but to end the royal bloodline once and for all."

Her hands trembled slightly as she continued. "He seemed almost smug when he told me I'd done his work for him by returning. He planned to present me to the people as the rightful heir, claiming he had rescued me from years of torment at the hands of the Omna. He would use me as a pawn to rally my people, fueling their hatred of the Omna and justifying war. Once my usefulness had ended, he planned to have me kill me and blame my death on lingering injuries from my supposed captivity."

Her voice cracked as she finished, her haunted eyes staring into the distance. "He had it all planned out—how to make himself the hero, how to manipulate my people, and how to rid himself of me once and for all."

I stared at her, stunned into silence. "How… how did you survive?"

Renesmee's eyes darkened, and she leaned back, her hand stilling on Nevarth's head. The wolf's large, warm body seemed to offer her silent support.

Her voice trembled, carrying the weight of old wounds as she began. "I thought I was going to die," she said softly, her tone heavy with the burden of memory. "In that moment, lying there shackled and helpless, I called out to Aro—not with my voice, but with everything inside me. Somewhere deep within, I believed I could reach him. We were bonded—I had already accepted him as my mate."

She paused, her gaze distant, as though seeing the dungeon walls around her again. "I didn't call to him to put him in danger or to make him come for me. I called to him because I needed him to know. I wanted him to hear me say... that I loved him. And that I was sorry—sorry I had left without telling him, without trusting him with the truth."

Her hands clenched tightly in her lap as she continued, her voice breaking slightly. "I must have spoken those words out loud, though I didn't realize it at the time. One moment, I thought I was alone in that cold, dark cell, and the next... William was there."

She shuddered as if the memory still chilled her to the core. "He stood in the doorway, watching me with that calculating, predatory look of his. Then he smiled—no, it was more than a smile. It was a sneer, a wicked grin that made my blood run cold. And then he said... 'I knew there was something between you two. I could feel it in the way you spoke about Lord Aro.'"

"Then he said, 'Don't worry,' as though he was savoring every word. 'He will come for you. And when he does... I will spill his blood on the throne.'"

Renesmee exhaled shakily, her expression a mixture of defiance and sorrow. "He didn't just want to hurt me. He wanted to destroy everything I loved, everything I hoped for. He wanted to make me watch as he unraveled it all."

I felt a chill run down my spine at the thought. "Did he—did Aro come for you?" I asked, my voice low with tension.

Renesmee's expression shifted to something distant, almost like she was reliving the moment. "He did," she said quietly. "My memory's hazy from the drugs, but I remember seeing him. I remember hearing him call my name. I remember wanting to tell him to leave—tell him to save himself. I don't know how much of that I was able to say aloud, but I remember hearing William's voice. He kept saying, 'Don't kill him. We need his blood. The throne will suck him dry.'"

My heart skipped at her words. "So, what happened?"

Renesmee's gaze drifted downward, her fingers absently stroking Nevarth's fur, the rhythmic motion a faint attempt to anchor herself. "My memory after that becomes hazy," she began, her voice barely audible, tinged with exhaustion and pain. "But one thing I'm certain of—Aro came for me. I don't know if it was the bond between us or some deeper instinct, but he felt my call. He knew I needed him, and he came."

Her fingers paused, gripping the fur lightly as she continued, her voice trembling. "He fought his way into the palace—through the guards, through whatever traps William had set—all to save me. But he was ambushed. William had anticipated it, and I was helpless, watching it all unfold while unable to move, still paralyzed by whatever drug they'd given me."

Her breath hitched, and she shook her head slightly. "I realized then how perfectly William had orchestrated it. Aro's presence played right into his hands. William could spin it however he wanted: that the Omna were still trying to destroy Kelus, still trying to eradicate the royal bloodline. He could claim Aro had come to kill me, conveniently timed just as I returned to claim my throne."

She hesitated, her voice growing quieter, as though the weight of the memory pressed heavily on her chest. "No matter how it ended, I knew it would spell disaster. If I died, it would justify war. If Aro was caught, he would become the perfect scapegoat, and my people would rally behind William's lies. Either way, I was doomed, and so was Aro."

Her expression hardened, a flicker of anger and despair in her eyes. "William's plan was flawless. He wasn't just trying to take the throne—he wanted to reshape history, to manipulate the narrative so completely that no one would ever question his actions."

I swallowed hard, the tension thick in the air. "But… you and Aro clearly survived?"

Renesmee gave a small nod, her fingers curling into Nevarth's fur for a moment before releasing. "Yes, we survived," she murmured, her voice laced with both relief and sorrow. "Aro saved me. Somehow, despite everything William had planned, Aro managed to break through and get me out. He brought me back to Novis himself. He carried me, cared for me. He nursed me back to health and never left my side, not even for a moment."

Her gaze shifted, and I could see the flicker of raw emotion in her eyes. "When the drugs finally cleared from my system, I started to remember everything—the betrayal, the fear, the pain. I cried. I cried because the very man who had sworn an oath to the throne and my family had turned on me. I cried because Aro and I almost didn't make it out alive. I cried because the dream I had fought so hard for—peace, unity—it seemed impossible. All of it was slipping away."

She took a deep breath, her hands trembling slightly as she tried to steady herself. "But then, something William said came rushing back to me—something about the throne. About how the throne would somehow suck Aro dry." Her voice dropped, and her green eyes, clouded with pain and uncertainty, locked onto mine. "I asked Aro what that meant. I needed to know. I had to understand."

Her expression darkened, and I could feel the weight of whatever answer she had been given. "I didn't like what he told me," she said softly, her tone heavy with dread. "I didn't like it at all. I still don't."

I hesitated, my throat tightening with unease before I asked softly, "Aro's blood needs to be put on the throne?"

Renesmee nodded slowly, her face etched with anguish. "Yes," she murmured, her voice carrying the weight of centuries-old pain. "Aro explained it all to me—the ancient coronation traditions, the bloodline rituals, and the blood debt that still lingers. He said that for William—or anyone, for that matter—to reclaim the throne, King Newton's bloodline must be entirely erased. Every descendant, every trace of the royal line, wiped from existence. And then…" She paused, her voice faltering before she found the strength to continue. "Aro's blood would need to be spilled. A sacrifice to balance the scales."

Her green eyes, shimmering with unshed tears, met mine. "Aro killed King Newton," she admitted, her voice raw. "He killed him in cold blood, and he didn't stop there. He slaughtered so many on Kelus—innocents, soldiers, anyone who stood in his way. He knew what he was doing then, and he knows now what it means. He owes a blood debt for the lives he took, a debt that can only be repaid with his own blood."

I let her words hang in the air, the enormity of her revelation sinking in like a stone in water. The room seemed to grow heavier, the weight of history pressing down on us both.

Renesmee continued, her voice trembling. "So, you see why I can't go back to Kelus—not truly. Claiming my crown would mean watching Aro die. And the worst part? I don't think he would resist it. He wouldn't try to stop me. If I told him I wanted my throne, he'd give his life willingly, without hesitation. That's what terrifies me the most—that he loves me enough to make that sacrifice."

Her voice broke, and she turned her gaze away, struggling to keep her composure. "But I can't," she whispered. "I can't let him do that. I've already lost so much. I can't lose him too."

I took a deep breath, the gravity of her predicament pressing down on my chest. The conflict between her duty and her love for Aro was unbearable to witness, let alone live through. "But…" I paused, searching for words, searching for hope. "There has to be another way," I said, my voice steady even as my heart raced. "There has to be another way to make things right, without losing everything in the process."

Renesmee turned back to me, her expression a mixture of despair and faint hope, as though she wanted to believe there could be a solution, even if she couldn't see it herself.

Renesmee shook her head slowly, her expression shadowed with the weight of inevitability. "When it comes to powers beyond us, to traditions forged in blood and stone long ago, there is no 'finding another way.' The ancient laws are relentless, unyielding. War will come, whether I try to reclaim the throne or not. The throne demands Aro's blood, and for that reason alone, war will come to Novis."

I leaned forward, frustration bubbling to the surface. My voice was sharper now, the urgency in my tone undeniable. "So your plan is to sit here and just let it happen?" I asked, unable to mask the anger and disbelief coursing through me. "Renesmee, innocent lives will be lost in this war. Your people—your bloodline's people—and Omna lives alike. All of it because your life remains hidden in the shadows. No one knows you're alive! Do you realize how much power that truth could hold?"

She flinched slightly, her green eyes flickering with an emotion I couldn't quite place—fear, guilt, perhaps even regret.

"Renesmee, listen," I continued, my voice softening but losing none of its determination. "You could change the tide. Forget William, forget waiting. March back to Kelus and claim the respect that's rightfully yours as queen. Show them who you are—who you've always been. I know Aro would back you, even if it meant bringing an army. And what about the people of Endis? They might change their minds if they see the truth of William's corruption. No one knows his treachery like you do."

She opened her mouth to speak but hesitated, her expression tightening as though she was weighing every word I'd said. I pressed on, the urgency of the moment propelling me.

"I bet William hasn't said a word to the people of Kelus about you," I said, my voice steady, calculated. "To them, you're still missing, presumed lost or dead. But what if you appeared before them? What if you spoke to them—not as someone fighting for the throne, but as their queen? You could save your people from him, from this war. You don't have to claim the crown right now or force Aro to make the ultimate sacrifice. But you can't just do nothing."

Her gaze fell to her lap, her hands tightening slightly in Nevarth's fur. I could see the war waging within her—the pull of her love for Aro, her fear of losing him, and the burden of duty she had carried for so long.

I leaned forward, gently taking her hand in mine. "Renesmee," I said softly, yet firmly, "I'm not saying you have to go back and declare war or enforce ancient traditions. But at least reveal yourself. Speak to your people as their queen. Show them that you're alive and that you care about their fate. Maybe… maybe it's not about a crown at all. Maybe you can be queen without wearing one. And perhaps, in doing so, you can begin to change these traditions—to rewrite the laws that have held us all captive for so long."

Her eyes met mine, filled with uncertainty and a flicker of hope, but still clouded with pain. The silence that followed felt heavy, but it was charged with possibility, with the faintest spark of a path forward.

Renesmee pulled her hand from mine, her expression resolute. "It does not work that way," she said, her tone firm and unwavering. "The people will demand a queen if they see me. They will insist on tradition, and they wouldn't understand what Aro and I share. But…" Her voice softened slightly, her gaze distant. "I do agree with you on one thing. My people should not go to war under that evil man, and lives should not be wasted needlessly."

Her words hung heavy in the air, and for a moment, she seemed lost in thought. Then she spoke again, her tone careful but carrying a newfound determination. "What help would you need from me? What is your plan?"

I blinked, caught off guard by her willingness to entertain a plan. Gratitude swelled within me—somehow, I had convinced her that the lives of her people were worth more than passively watching the storm of war brew.

"Well," I began, gathering my thoughts, "Enzuk said the people of Endis are also preparing to wage war on Novis. The Omna are tired of being exiled. They want to come home, even if they have human mates. That gives us an opening. If they have a compelling reason to delay their attack, they might listen. If they know there's a chance that the queen of Kelus lives and intends to take the crown, perhaps they will hesitate. If they believe that peace between Omna and humans is truly possible, maybe they will stand down."

Renesmee tilted her head, a faint smirk tugging at her lips. "You intend for me to go to Endis with you?" she asked, a hint of disbelief in her voice. "Aro will not allow it." She chuckled lightly, shaking her head. "Not that he can stop me, but he will insist on being involved. And if he is, I fear your plan will fail. They won't trust me. They'll assume Aro is pulling the strings, using me as a pawn to further his agenda."

"Then we don't involve Aro," I said quickly. "We keep him out of this. Perhaps coming to Endis yourself is too much, at least for now. But I believe Carlisle and Esme still have allies there. Enzuk mentioned they do. If they can vouch for you—that you're alive and committed to peace—it might be enough to stall the war."

Renesmee's expression softened at the mention of Esme. A small, wistful smile crossed her lips, and she brought a hand to her mouth. "Esme," she murmured, her voice tinged with fondness. "I—I haven't seen her in ages, it seems." She laughed softly, her eyes distant as if recalling a cherished memory. "She was like a mother to me," she said, her voice warm with affection.

I couldn't help but smile at her. "I'm sure she misses you a lot. She would be overjoyed to see you again."

"She would," came a deep, strong voice from behind me. Startled, I turned quickly to see Enzuk standing in the doorway, his tall frame silhouetted by the dim light behind him.

Renesmee straightened, her expression shifting from surprise to something unreadable.

Enzuk stepped forward, his tone firm yet laced with a quiet intensity. "My mother loved you like a daughter," he said, his gaze locked on Renesmee. "And she knows you live—because I told her." He paused, letting the weight of his words settle. "So understand this, Renesmee. The choices you make don't just concern you or your love for Aro. They affect all of us—Novis, Endis, Kelus. My mother and father. Isabella. Me."

His voice grew heavier, more commanding. "You still have a duty as queen. You cannot hide behind Aro's strength or hope that this storm will pass on its own. Sooner or later, you will have to face your destiny. The question is, will you face it now, before more lives are lost, or will you wait until it's too late to make a difference?"

I bit my lip, sensing the rising tension. Enzuk had a way with words, but tact wasn't his strongest suit.

Renesmee's sharp gaze flickered between the two of us before she straightened her posture, lifting her chin high. "Easy words to say when your mate's life isn't on the line," she said, her voice low but cutting.

Enzuk took a deliberate step forward, his jaw tightening. "It is," he said, the words gritted out like they carried a weight of their own. "The way the world is now, Novis would never accept Isabella."

Renesmee's lips curved into a faint, knowing smirk. She tipped her head slightly, studying him with a mixture of curiosity and challenge. "So, you two are mates. I suspected as much but wanted confirmation. That must be hard—being Aro's top soldier, with such feelings forbidden."

"They are," Enzuk admitted, his voice a low growl. His stoic demeanor cracked just enough to reveal the storm brewing beneath. "And while I sympathize with your situation, I will do what is—"

"Enzuk and I would be grateful for your help," I cut in swiftly, steering the conversation away from a confrontation that would do us no good. The room already felt like a powder keg, and I had no intention of letting it ignite. "Please, Renesmee, think about what we've discussed tonight."

Renesmee's piercing green eyes shifted to me, her expression a careful blend of thoughtfulness and determination. Finally, she gave a small nod. "Speak with the people of Endis," she said, her tone steady and commanding. "Tell them they need not join Kelus in its war against Novis. For the queen of Kelus lives, and she will return—not to claim power, but to deliver peace and unite what once was. Omna and humans will no longer be enemies. Tell them this war does not concern them, but they will reap the benefits of the peace that follows. Exile will end. For those who wish to return to Novis, the gates will be open."

Her words carried a weight that hung in the air, the enormity of her promise settling over all of us.

I smiled at her, a flicker of hope igniting within me. "I will. We will," I said, glancing at Enzuk. He returned a faint half-smile, though his expression remained guarded, worry etched into his features.

Enzuk's gaze shifted abruptly toward the door, his body tense as though sensing something unseen. "Isabella, we should go," he said firmly. "I feel we've overstayed our welcome. Aro will return soon, and if we're to have any chance of succeeding in this plan, we need to leave now."

Renesmee's eyes narrowed, suspicion and perhaps something softer flashing across her face. For a moment, I thought she would let us leave without another word, but then she stood, her movements deliberate and filled with quiet grace.

"Wait," she said, her voice softer now, almost fragile. She reached up, her slender fingers curling around something at her neck. Slowly, she removed a gold necklace, its intricate designs catching the dim light. The chain gleamed with a delicate brilliance, as if holding its own significance.

"This," she said, holding it out to me, "give this to Esme. Tell her I am sorry I didn't come to her right away, but that I love her. She had a necklace like this one made for me long ago. When Aro took me, the original was left in the ashes of Kelus. He went back to search for it when he realized how much it meant to me, but he couldn't find it. So he had another one made. It's not the same, but it was our secret—her gift to me. This will prove to her that I'm alive and well. I hope to see her soon, but until then, please… pass it on."

Her voice trembled just slightly at the end, a crack in her composed facade that betrayed the depth of her emotions.

I reached out and carefully took the necklace, its weight surprisingly substantial in my palm. The intricate design seemed to pulse with a history of its own, a tangible reminder of the bonds Renesmee had left behind.

"I will," I said softly, meeting her gaze. "I promise."

Renesmee gave me a small nod, her expression unreadable but laced with something that might have been hope. For the first time, it felt as though we had a chance—not just to stop a war, but to mend the fractures in a world that had been broken for far too long.

Renesmee's smile lingered for a moment before fading into an expression of quiet resolve. "Thank you, Isabella. For your words," she said softly, her tone carrying a weight of gratitude. She glanced at Enzuk, her lips quirking into a playful yet pointed smile. "Blunt as they were."

Her gaze returned to me, steady and deliberate. "If you need to contact me or share updates about your progress on Endis, come the same way you did today. But, when you reach the maze, call for Navarth. He can move freely through the barriers and will either alert me or carry a message. It's safer to communicate within the maze than here in Aro's domain. I wish to protect him—and keep him uninvolved for as long as possible. If all goes well, perhaps we can avoid a war entirely."

I nodded, her trust in me both sobering and empowering. "I'll send word as soon as I have news," I promised, my voice steady despite the uncertainty swirling in my chest.

Navarth, who had been lying quietly by Renesmee's side, rose to his feet at her command. His sharp ears twitched, and his intelligent eyes locked with hers, seeming to understand her words completely. "Navarth," she said firmly, her tone carrying an edge of authority, "lead them out safely through the maze. Ensure they reach the other side."

The wolf gave a low chuff, his massive head nodding slightly before he padded toward us, his movements fluid and deliberate. He paused in front of me, his piercing eyes meeting mine briefly, and then turned to lead the way.

"Go now," Renesmee said, her voice firm but tinged with something softer—an undercurrent of reluctance. "And be careful."

Before I could respond, Enzuk stepped forward, his towering frame casting a protective shadow. He reached for my hand, his touch firm but not unkind. "We must leave," he murmured, his tone calm yet laced with urgency.

He turned to Renesmee and gave her a small nod of acknowledgment. "Thank you," he said simply, his voice low and steady. Then, without another word, he swept me into his arms.

I let out a small gasp as Enzuk shifted me effortlessly onto his back, his movements precise and practiced. My arms instinctively wrapped around his shoulders, my fingers gripping tightly as I tried to steady myself. "Hold on," he said with a smirk, though his tone carried a seriousness that underscored the need for haste.

Navarth led the way, his form cutting through the moonlight like a shadow, and Enzuk followed, his steps careful yet swift. I glanced back once, catching Renesmee's silhouette standing tall against the faint glow of the torches, her expression unreadable.

As we approached the edge of the outer wall, Enzuk crouched slightly, his muscles tensing beneath me. "Wait, we're not—" I started, but before I could finish, he launched us into the air.

The wind whipped around us as Enzuk scaled the sheer stone wall with a speed and precision that left me breathless. His claws scraped against the surface, finding purchase with each movement. I tightened my grip around his neck, my heart pounding as I clutched the golden necklace in one hand, ensuring it wouldn't slip from my grasp.

Moments later, we landed softly on the ground, the impact barely registering beneath Enzuk's powerful frame. Navarth was waiting for us, his eyes gleaming in the dim light. He let out a low growl, his head motioning toward the labyrinthine path ahead.

"Hold tight," Enzuk said, his voice calm but commanding as he adjusted his stance. He gave me a quick glance over his shoulder, his smirk returning for a brief moment. "And try not to fall off, love."

Despite the tension of the situation, I couldn't help but smile slightly. "I'll do my best," I said, gripping his shoulders more tightly as Navarth took the lead, guiding us.

Navarth was already ahead, his white fur gleaming like a beacon in the darkening garden. He moved with unhurried confidence, his trot steady and sure against the soft rustle of the grass beneath him. The sprawling greenery seemed to bend to his presence, as though acknowledging his authority.

Ahead of us, the thick green wall of vines loomed ominously, marking the entrance to the maze. Its towering structure, intertwined with leaves and tendrils, seemed alive, almost sentient. Navarth reached the entrance first, and as though the maze recognized him, the vines began to part with an eerie grace, peeling back to reveal the shadowed path beyond.

Enzuk didn't hesitate. He followed Navarth swiftly, his movements almost too fluid for someone carrying another person. His steps were silent, purposeful, and unrelenting. I clung to him, still feeling the lingering adrenaline from our rapid descent from the tower, my fingers curling tightly around the necklace in my hand.

The maze swallowed us, its darkness absolute. The dense canopy overhead allowed only slivers of moonlight to filter through, but Navarth's fur glowed faintly, providing a steady guide through the twisting, winding paths. The air here was cool and damp, the scent of earth and leaves thick around us. Shadows danced on the walls of vines, but Navarth pressed forward, unbothered by the eerie stillness.

At one point, Navarth stopped abruptly, his head tilting slightly as though listening to something we couldn't hear. I held my breath, expecting danger, but then the maze itself shifted. The vines writhed and rearranged, creating an open pathway ahead. I exchanged a glance with Enzuk, whose eyes flicked toward the moving walls, his jaw tightening.

The maze seemed alive, sentient even. It was unsettling how effortlessly it responded to Navarth. But what unnerved me more was how it had let me pass earlier. I wasn't Omna; I didn't belong on Novis. My chest tightened as questions flooded my mind: Why me? Why did it open for me?

The maze's boundary came into view, shimmering faintly like a veil where the darkness of the maze met the world beyond. The air around it felt charged, alive with energy. As we approached, the barrier shimmered, pulsing slightly before splitting open to let us through. I glanced at Enzuk, hoping he might offer some explanation, but he remained silent, his sharp eyes scanning the vines as though searching for answers himself.

Once we stepped through, the barrier sealed behind us, its energy folding in on itself with a faint hum. Navarth turned back to look at us, his glowing eyes calm yet filled with purpose. He gave a low chuff, his head tilting slightly before he bounded back into the depths of the maze. The vines seemed to swallow him whole, returning to their impenetrable state.

I exhaled, my mind still racing. Enzuk turned toward the path ahead, and I knew he was leading us toward Melxa's lab.

Once we reached Melxa's lab, Enzuk eased me off his back with surprising gentleness, his strong hands steadying me as I found my footing. His warmth lingered on my skin even after he stepped back, his ever-watchful gaze scanning the surroundings as though danger might appear at any moment.

I brushed the stray strands of hair from my face and asked, "Could you hear all that? Our conversation with Renesmee?"

Enzuk turned to me, one brow arching slightly, a teasing glint in his blue eyes. "Isabella," he began, his deep voice carrying that familiar blend of humor and patience, "when I was stationed on Earth, I could hear and make contact with my ship as it passed through your solar system. Do you really think I couldn't hear a conversation happening twenty feet away?"

I couldn't help but laugh, lightly swatting his arm. "Oh, so now you're bragging? You and your amazing, galaxy-spanning hearing?"

He grinned, his sharp teeth flashing in the dim light of the lab. There was a time when that predatory smile would have sent chills down my spine, a visceral reminder of how different he was from me. But now, it only sent butterflies fluttering through my chest. That grin was all him—playful, confident, and endearing in ways I never thought possible.

"It's not bragging if it's true," he replied, his tone light but his gaze steady on me. "You should know: I'm always listening when it comes to you."

My cheeks warmed at his words, and I ducked my head to hide the smile tugging at my lips. He had this way of saying things—simple, direct, yet carrying so much weight. He didn't need grand gestures or flowery words. Enzuk's loyalty, his quiet strength, and the way he looked at me as though I was the center of his universe spoke louder than anything else.

"You're insufferable," I teased, though the affection in my voice was impossible to miss.

"And yet, here you are," he shot back, his smirk growing.

I shook my head, marveling at the strange path that had led us here. "It's crazy, isn't it?" I said softly, my fingers absentmindedly brushing against the necklace Renesmee had given me. "How we ended up together. You, an Omna soldier from another world. Me, just… me. Everything about us should've kept us apart, but here we are."

Enzuk's expression softened, and he took a step closer, his towering presence both comforting and overwhelming in the best way. "It's not crazy," he said, his voice low and steady. "It's fate. Everything we've been through—every choice, every risk—it all led us here. You and I were always meant to find each other, Isabella."

The intensity in his gaze made my breath catch, and for a moment, the weight of the world—the wars, the uncertainty, the impossible odds we faced—faded away. In that moment, it was just us, two souls from entirely different worlds, yet inexplicably bound together.

I smiled, reaching out to touch his hand. "Fate, huh? I guess I can live with that."

"Good," he said, his fingers closing around mine. "Because I'm not letting you go."

Before I could respond, a faint noise from deeper in the lab caught our attention. Enzuk's head snapped toward the sound, his instincts kicking in immediately. His body tensed, ready for action, but his grip on my hand remained firm, grounding me.

"Maybe Melxa?" I said softly.

A moment later, the sound of footsteps grew closer, and Melxa emerged from the shadows, his sharp eyes flicking between us. I let out a relieved breath.

As we entered the lab, Melxa's voice greeted us before his face appeared in the dim light, his tone as clipped and sharp as ever. "You two are back," he said, his eyes flicking between Enzuk and me with a calculating gleam.

Enzuk released my hand, though the warmth of his touch lingered, grounding me even as Melxa's penetrating gaze made me feel like we were being dissected. "Yes," Enzuk replied, his voice calm and measured. "I was just saying goodnight to Isabella."

Melxa's brow arched slightly, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Is that what you were doing?" he asked as he moved toward a set of cabinets, pulling them open and rearranging the rows of bottles inside. "Because from where I stood, it felt like I was interrupting something."

"You were," Enzuk said bluntly, his blue eyes narrowing slightly. "And still are."

Melxa let out a low chuckle, his smirk widening as he turned to face us fully. "Well, since I've interrupted, I assume you two have something to report from your eventful evening?" His expression turned serious, his sharp gaze locking onto Enzuk. "Did you reach Renesmee? Did you speak with her?"

Enzuk nodded and straightened, his voice taking on a tone of quiet authority. "We've got more than news. We've got a plan." He paused briefly, glancing at me before continuing. "When Isabella and I left, Renesmee seemed onboard with helping to stop the war. Thanks to Isabella's ability to connect with her, they were able to see eye to eye. She convinced Renesmee to take an active role in preventing Kelus from waging war."

Melxa's eyes widened slightly, and he nodded, his features softening with what might have been relief. "I'm glad," he said, his voice losing some of its usual sharpness. He turned to me, his expression warm and approving. "I thought you might be able to reach her, Isabella. Thank you. If Renesmee takes her stand in all this, it could truly change the course of events and prevent another great war from devastating us all."

I swallowed the lump in my throat, humbled by his words but acutely aware of the weight they carried. "It wasn't easy," I admitted. "But she loves her people. Deep down, she wants what's best for them. She just needed to be reminded of that."

Melxa gave me a small smile before his face turned serious again. "So, what now? You said you have a plan. What's the next step?"

Enzuk hesitated for a fraction of a second, his gaze flicking to me as though seeking permission to continue. When I nodded, he turned back to Melxa. "A trip to Endis is the next step," he began. "The people of Endis need to know there's no reason to go to war with Novis. I understand the exiled Omna want to return to Novis because it's their home. It's where true regeneration occurs, and many of them are experiencing age for the first time because they're unable to rejuvenate."

Melxa's brow furrowed as he listened intently, his hands folded in front of him. Enzuk pressed on. "But if we go to Endis and tell them that Renesmee truly lives—that she plans to stop the war and reunite both races—we might be able to sway them. If they know they'll be allowed to return to Novis without bloodshed, they won't side with Kelus. And that's a lot of firepower for Kelus to lose."

Melxa nodded slowly, his expression thoughtful.

Enzuk continued, "Kelus must believe it has the upper hand, especially if it thinks Endis will join its side. I'm sure the leader of Kelus is aware of the anger that the Omna on Endis have for Novis. He is counting on the army from Endis to join him in his cause. But if Endis withdraws its support…"

"They'll lose some confidence," Melxa added, catching on. "The people of Kelus might hesitate, maybe even reconsider the war altogether if they know Renesmee is alive and opposes the war."

Melxa's sharp eyes shifted between us, his mind clearly working through the implications. "It's a bold plan," he admitted. "But if it works, it could shift the balance entirely."

"It has to work," Enzuk said, his voice firm. "Because if it doesn't—if war comes to Novis from both Endis and Kelus, there won't be much left to save."

Enzuk escorted me into my small cell and walked me over to the bed. He took a seat on the edge and stared at me with a smile. I smiled back, happy that we were able to accomplish something together. He took my hand and brought it to his lips.

I blushed at this, running my finger across his smiling lips.

"I can't believe the way Renesmee spoke about Aro. He doesn't really seem like the type to be in love with anyone other than the laws of Novis," I said. "I guess, its true. You can't really chose your mate huh? If he could, I doubt he would have fallen in love with the only child of his enemy."

Enzuk nodded. "It must have been difficult for him to accept, but Omna can't help but love their mates."

"So I see," giving him a knowing look.

Before I could utter another word, Enzuk lifted me up and placed me on his lap. His size was intimidating compared to mine, but at the same time, it made me feel safe in his arms—like nothing could harm me. I shivered as his rough hand traced up my leg, each touch sending electric pulses through my veins. His lips found their way to my neck, leaving a trail of soft kisses that made my breath hitch in anticipation. The simple white dress I wore rode up with his movements, exposing more of my skin to his touch.

My heart raced in my chest, pounding so loud I could feel it in my ears. A fire ignited in my core, spreading warmth and desire throughout my body. My cheeks flushed with a deep rosy hue as I locked eyes with him, seeing nothing but pure hunger and longing in his piercing blue gaze. And in that moment, I knew I was utterly captivated by this man who exuded an intoxicating aura.

I could feel the heat pooling between my legs, aching for his touch. The air was thick with anticipation as we stood there, lost in each other's gaze.

"W-what about Melxa," I managed to whisper, already out of breath.

"Shhhh," he breathed against my ear, sending shivers down my spine. "No Melxa. Just us. If he knows what's good for him, he will mind his own business." His voice was low and rough, sending waves of desire through me. "The only thing I want to hear coming out of your mouth is you screaming my name.

A moan escaped my lips as his hand trailed down my exposed thigh, causing my body to tremble with anticipation. Enzuk's lips found their way to mine, and I eagerly responded, tasting the sweet nectar of his kiss. His other hand gently cupped my face, deepening the kiss as he pulled me closer to him.

I was lost in him—his touch, his scent, his taste. I wanted more, needed more. And he seemed to feel the same as his hands roamed over my body, leaving a trail of fire in their wake.

"Say my name," he whispered against my lips.

"Enzuk," I breathed out, feeling a sense of liberation by saying it out loud.

"Again," he demanded, his voice husky with desire.

"Enzuk," I repeated breathlessly.

With a growl of approval, he laid me down and hovered above me. His gaze was intense and filled with raw emotion as he took off his shirt and revealed his sculpted chest. I couldn't help but run my hands over every inch of him, marveling at the smoothness of his skin.

But before I could explore further, Enzuk claimed my lips once again in a fiery kiss that left us both breathless. He trailed kisses down my neck and collarbone before moving on to give attention to each of my breasts through the thin fabric covering them. My body arched towards him in response as waves of pleasure coursed through me.

My dress soon joined Enzuk's shirt on the floor as we both gave into our primal desires.

Enzuk's hands roamed over my body, exploring every inch of my skin. His touch was firm, yet gentle, making me ache for more. He cupped my breast, his thumb circling my hardened nipple. A soft moan escaped my lips as I arched my back, pressing myself against him.

"Please," I begged, my voice barely above a whisper. "Don't stop." I was so ready for him. I wanted him, and I didn't care who saw.

Enzuk smirked, a wicked gleam in his eye. "Not yet, love." Why was he waiting? I wanted him now.

I wrapped my legs around his waist, feeling his hard member pressing against me. I wanted him so bad, and I wasn't ashamed in the least. I ground my hips against him, eliciting a groan from him.

His eyes never left mine as he explored my naked body. I licked my lips, eager to taste him.

Enzuk lowered himself between my legs, spreading them wide. I gasped when his fingers found their way between my legs. Holy shit. I breathed heavy through parted lips as I struggled not to moan too loudly.

"Enzuk. Pease," I pleaded, my voice filled with desperation. "I need you inside me."

"As you wish," he said with a grin. He slid in slowly, and I tensed as my body stretched. I don't think I would ever get use to his size. He began to move, his thrusts deep and hard. I met him with each thrust, my hips rising to meet his. I could feel him hitting that spot, sending waves of pleasure through me. I was so close, so so close.

"Oh god," I said.

"You feel so good Isabella. I couldn't have asked for a better mate. The way your body feels and craves me, drives me wild," he grunted out. "I love you," he said breathlessly.

He continued to thrust into me, his movements becoming more erratic. He could he too was getting close. With a final thrust, we both came and the feeling that was both foreign and exhilarating.

We lay there for a moment, catching our breath. Enzuk looked down at me, a satisfied smirk on his face. "Isabella, you're amazing," he said, his voice filled with awe.

I smiled up at him, my eyes filled with happiness. "I could say the same about you."

He leaned down, capturing my lips in a soft kiss. As we lay tangled in each other's arms, our bodies glistening with sweat and our breathing heavy, I couldn't help the giddy smile on my lips.

Enzuk chuckled, the deep timbre of his voice sending a pleasant shiver through me. "My mate is stunning when she's happy. And absolutely radiant when she's well-pleasured," he teased, his blue eyes sparkling with mischief.

I ran my fingers through his silky hair, brushing a few damp strands away from his forehead. "I can't wait for this to be our life," I said softly, my voice filled with hope. "To be free. Together. In a home of our own."

His smile deepened, his gaze full of warmth. "While our children play in the forest," he added, his tone tinged with a quiet longing.

A blush warmed my cheeks, and I glanced away. "I never imagined myself as a mother," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper.

Enzuk shifted beneath me, pulling a blanket over our entwined bodies and wrapping me securely in his arms. "You'll be a wonderful mother," he murmured, his voice as steady and sure as the strength of his embrace. "You're brave, intelligent, and kind. It's not just your beauty that captured my heart."

I tilted my head, raising an eyebrow. "Are you talking about back on Earth?"

He nodded, a playful grin curving his lips.

"So… you were checking me out?" I teased, unable to stop the smirk creeping onto my face.

His laughter rumbled low and deep, vibrating against my chest. "It was impossible not to," he admitted, his expression softening. "At first, I tried to fight it. I didn't want to feel that way about you. But every time you walked away, I couldn't help but wonder—what it would feel like to hold you, to know you this way."

My heart skipped a beat, his words stirring a warmth within me that no blanket could match. I rested my head against his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.

"Well," I murmured, a small smile tugging at my lips, "I guess now you know."

"And I'll never let you go," he replied, his voice firm yet tender.

I ran my hand along his skin, my fingers tracing the sharp lines of his chest. The warmth radiating from him seeped into me, making my heart ache with a longing I couldn't quite put into words. I wanted to stay like this forever—wrapped in his arms, feeling his steady presence, safe and cherished. But reality was cruel. I knew the moment couldn't last. Soon, he'd have to leave the lab, and the thought of him going left a hollow ache deep inside me.

"I just want to fall asleep here," I murmured, my voice soft and wistful. "And wake up knowing you're still holding me."

His hand moved gently along my back, his touch as soothing as the steady rhythm of his breathing. The way he held me, as if he could shield me from the weight of the world, was a comfort I wasn't sure I deserved but desperately needed.

"One day, you will," he promised, his voice rich and steady. There was a certainty in his words that made me believe him. "When all of this is behind us, you'll never have to wonder if I'll stay. I'll be here, always."

The strength of his conviction made my chest tighten with emotion, and I sighed, letting my cheek rest against his chest. The steady beat of his heart was a melody I could listen to forever, its rhythm a soothing balm against the chaos of the world outside.

Then, I felt him shift beneath me. One hand stayed on my back, warm and grounding, but the other reached for something beside the bed. Curious, I lifted my head slightly, and my heart skipped when I saw what he held in his hand. My journal.

"Written anything about me lately?" Enzuk asked, a playful gleam lighting his brilliant blue eyes.

I gasped, instinctively reaching for it, but he held it just out of reach, a grin spreading across his face.

"If I did," I said, laughing, "you'll never know!"

His deep chuckle rumbled through his chest, and I felt it vibrate against my cheek. "That's fine. I already read what you wrote about me in your last journal," he teased, his smirk widening. "I can only imagine the sweet words you've penned in part two."

"Oh, please," I said, rolling my eyes as I tried to grab the journal again. "Don't get so cocky."

His smirk softened into a grin, his expression both mischievous and adoring. "Come on, admit it. You've probably written at least one little note about how you can't resist me."

I groaned, laughing despite myself. "If you must know," I said, sitting up slightly, "I've been using that journal to track the Omna language."

His brow lifted in surprise, his playful demeanor giving way to genuine interest. "Really?"

"Yes," I replied, a small, proud smile tugging at my lips. "I wanted to surprise you—and prove that I could survive on Novis. Of course, Melxa letting me keep the translating device makes it a little less necessary, but still…"

Enzuk's expression softened as he studied me, and he reached up to cup my cheek. His thumb brushed lightly over my skin, his touch gentle but filled with purpose.

"You're incredible," he said, his voice quiet and sincere. "You've already proven yourself a hundred times over. But the fact that you're learning Omna for me… it means more than you know."

Heat crept into my cheeks under his unwavering gaze, and I glanced away shyly. "I just wanted to be able to talk to you in your native tongue, without a translator," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper. "It feels… important. Like understanding that part of you will bring us even closer."

Enzuk gently turned my face back toward him, his thumb grazing over my cheekbone. "You've already got my heart, love. But hearing you speak my language from the heart, without a translator... that would be the most beautiful sound I could imagine."

For a moment, we simply stared at each other, the weight of his words settling between us like a promise neither of us needed to speak aloud.

"I'm still not letting you read my journal, though," I teased, breaking the moment with a playful grin.

His laughter filled the room, rich and warm, as he leaned forward to press a tender kiss to my forehead. "Fair enough. But someday, I'll find that journal and read every page," he said setting the journal aside.

"And I'll wrestle it back from you," I shot back, laughing as I settled into his arms again.

"Good luck, my love," he murmured, his voice soft as his fingers traced idle patterns on my back. "You're strong, but I'll always be faster."

"We will see. I have tricks of my own," I said pushing my breasts into his chest. I felt his breath hitch, followed by a groan that turned into laughter.

"All that will get you," he said, his tone laced with affection, "is more children, my love."

I smiled softly, warmth blooming in my chest. With Enzuk, I welcomed the idea of a family—something I never thought I'd want so deeply. I would gladly give him all the children he desired.

"You'll be a good father," I said, my voice brimming with quiet certainty. "The best."

He hummed thoughtfully, his hand moving to gently stroke the top of my head. "You think so?" he asked, the faintest hint of vulnerability threading his voice.

"I know so," I replied.

Enzuk's hand slipped down to entwine with mine, his long fingers and pale claws dwarfing my smaller, human ones. He lifted our joined hands, studying them with a curious expression. "Your hand looks so delicate next to mine," he mused, his voice low and thoughtful. "And yet, you're stronger than anyone I've ever met."

I smiled, but he grew quiet, his eyes lingering on our hands. Then, in a voice weighted with conviction, he said, "I want to be a good father, Isabella. I'd give anything to protect you and our children. My last breath, if that's what it took. But it's more than that. I don't want them growing up in fear or treated as less than anyone else. I want them to grow up in a free world. That's why this plan of ours has to work. Because if it doesn't… how can I call myself a father? How could I protect them from what this world might do to them?"

I reached up, cupping his cheek, feeling the tension in his jaw. "The plan will work," I said firmly. "We just need to stick to it. We have to go to Endis and convince the people to withdraw their support for the war. If we can do that, we'll turn the tide."

He looked down at me then, a flicker of apprehension in his gaze that made my stomach twist. "What?" I asked softly, searching his expression. "What's wrong?"

He sighed, his shoulders slumping slightly as if under an invisible weight. "Isabella… I'm not sure it will be safe for you to go to Endis."

I sat up straighter, frowning. "None of what we've been doing is safe," I pointed out. "Why would Endis be any different?"

Enzuk hesitated, his claws brushing gently over my knuckles. "Endis is… unpredictable," he admitted. "I don't know what awaits us there. The people could turn hostile. They could target you. I would hate to put you in a situation where I can't protect you."

I leaned closer, my eyes locking with his. "Enzuk," I said, my voice steady and resolute. "I'm going. I'm not safe anywhere—not while things are the way they are. No human is safe, least of all on Novis. You know that. If we want to change this, I have to go to Endis. We both do."

His jaw tightened, and I could see the conflict in his expression. Finally, he let out a slow breath and nodded. "Fine," he murmured. "But promise me… promise me you'll let me shield you if it comes to it. Let me protect you however I can. Don't ever fight to sacrifice yourself for me. You will never die before me. Promise me, that you will let me protect you in how I see fit."

"I promise," I said, resting my forehead against his. "But we protect each other. That's what we've always done, and that's what we'll keep doing."

Enzuk closed his eyes briefly, his breath mingling with mine. "You're too brave for your own good," he whispered, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips.

"And you're too protective for yours," I shot back, earning a soft chuckle.

We remained silent for a while, the weight of our conversation settling between us like a shared burden. His arms held me tightly, his warmth and steady heartbeat soothing the lingering tension in my chest. Enzuk's fingers continued their gentle, absentminded patterns on my back, lulling me further into a calm state.

I closed my eyes, my head resting against his chest. "Don't let go," I murmured, my voice barely audible.

"Never," he replied softly, his tone as firm as the arms wrapped around me.

But I knew better. I knew what the morning would bring.

His warmth surrounded me, cocooning me in a sense of safety that felt fleeting but precious. The tension in my body eased little by little, and sleep began to claim me. As my breathing slowed, I clung to the feeling of his presence, trying to hold onto the moment for just a little longer.

The last thing I remembered before sleep overtook me was the way his lips brushed against the top of my head.


Thoughts? :) Thank you all for reading and sticking with the story.