The Forged King: Book 4 of the Forged Series, #4

By Patricia M. Bryce

Faith Lothian became the consort of the Gendawyn King. But Quinn of Tarsi's sacrifice to save Garrett didn't work out as he planned and now the King of Gendawyn is not quite himself... he's so much more! But when Garrett can't keep control of the shared body, he goes into hiding, leaving Faith and Quinn to deal with the fallout. What will it take to forge the shattered souls into one Forged King?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Patricia M. Bryce
• Release date: Jan 24, 2017
• ISBN: 9781533578594

Patricia M. Bryce

Patricia M. Bryce is a short story author, novelist and cosplayer. She has appeared as Patricia M. Rose in the anthology, Dreams of Steam: Gadgets, edited by Kimberly Richardson and published by Dark Oak Press. When she's not busy writing, she's off being a playtron up at Bristol Renaissance Faire. You can learn more at https://www.facebook.com/PaisleyRose1

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(c) 2016  Patricia M. Bryce

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced without the permission

of the publisher.

Cover Design by SB Designs

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, events and incidents are either the products of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

Other books in the Forged Series

Book 1

Forged in the Maze

Book 2

Forged Magic

Book 3

Forged Lives

Also by Patricia M. Bryce

Close to you

Dedicated to

The Frog and his Boy

and

Mr. Jones

For inspirations and aspirations

And

Syd

Who bore it all with me.

Chapter 1.

Faith's two worlds, as separate as any could be, appeared to be on the verge of colliding after the tourney. At home, she was the loving daughter and doting older sister; to all appearances a perfectly normal teenager. When she stepped through the portal, her world and life changed. She would ride dragons before breakfast and practice magic in a wizard's tower, live in a castle, and keep company with a King. The two made one, subject of prophecy.

She had been nervous about her first return trip to the Kingdom of Gendawyn. She had been rather bold with the King just before entering the portal. Completing the marking he had started. Faith was not sure what to expect upon her return. Just one month in regular time had passed. In the Lands of the Mysts, Faith was not sure what she would find. To her surprise and delight, it was still summer there as well. The kingdom was celebrating a wedding; Dylan and the daughter of the Mystic of the Isle of Tarsi were having a court wedding.

When their stay was over, Garrett had kissed her cheek, told her to stay well and he looked forward to the next visit. Thereafter, Faith Lothian led a double life. Once a month her parents thought she was spending a weekend gaming at the local complex and hanging with the Si-fi-fantasy LARP crowd. When in reality she was stepping through a portal and spending time being the Mystic of a magical realm on the other side of the Fairy Mysts; consort to said king of said realm.

She made monthly visits to the Enchanted Kingdom, she and her King played a strange game of cat and mouse. At which point she was no longer sure whether she was the cat or the mouse. It seemed they took turns being the hunter and being the prey. Faith, so caught up in the web they had managed to weave, had not noticed a change in her mundane life.

~*~

Her stepmother began to look at her with worried eyes. Karen poured coffee for Robert and called Faith to come to breakfast for the third time. She looked at her husband. I don't know where her head is these days! she complained.

Robert, reading his morning paper, pretended he was interested in what she was saying. She's a teenager, dear, none of them know where their heads are.

Robert! She is graduating High School in less than a week! She's made no plans for the future, she's not enrolled in a college, or even looking for a job, not even for the summer. Karen sat down across from her husband. She didn't go to prom, and she's not attending the big senior class beach party, or the senior Class breakfast. Now does that sound normal to you? She tapped the table. And when was the last time she had a date?

Maybe she's gay. Robert mumbled.

That's not funny. Karen snapped.

~*~

Faith felt the tension the moment she entered the room, she smiled at her stepmother. Good morning, sorry about being late. She had a feeling that there was about to be a summit, and the subject would be her life.

Karen looked at Faith’s father, silently demanding he say something. It was a tactic that Faith was familiar with, she’d seen this exchange of looks before. Robert put his paper down and motioned Faith to take a seat. Your mother and I have some concerns.

Faith bristled when her father used the word mother. She had come to accept Karen on so many levels. She even liked her, no, she loved her; but Karen was not her mother. Dad. Faith's tone got his attention. "Please don't call her my mother. Karen is your wife, my stepmother, she is not my mother. Faith looked at Karen, I'm not trying to be rude, really Karen..."

Karen patted her hand. I understand.

Robert shook his head. Faith, what plans do you have for the future?

Faith had been expecting this little chat, Well, actually I'm thinking of taking a year off and traveling through Europe. See a bit of the world before I settle down and make a life plan.

Robert frowned. Alone?

No. Faith said smoothly. Anne and Ryan would be going too. Ryan has an aunt in Scotland who said we can make our home base there while we see the sights.

I see. Robert was looking like he was going to reject the plan.

Dylan will be there as well dad, acting as sort of a chaperon and a guide. She sipped the juice that Karen had on the table. You know he's been there for, what... a year and a half, is it? Faith knew it was a lie, and she hated telling it.

Oh well, that's different. he smiled over at Karen at the mention of Dylan. Faith found it amusing that he was so fond of Dylan when he'd seen maybe twice. She also knew that telling her father that Dylan was married wouldn't help, so she left that information out of the conversation. I see no reason why you should not have the experience of travel on your own. You can even stop in from time to time and check in with your mother. She and, what's his name, are doing plays over in London this season. Robert forgot Jeremy's name purposely.

A car horn blasting in the drive ended the conversations. That's Ryan, and I'm late. Got to go! She kissed her father and stepmother. Karen, I'll take Derek and the baby to the park today, and you can take a break... you look tired.

~*~

Karen waited until the door closed, then looked at her husband with disappointment. You didn't ask anything!

You want to know about her private life, you ask. Robert folded his paper. I'm going to my office. He kissed her brow. Have a good day, dear.

Karen frowned. Right.

~*~

Anne looked at Faith as she settled in the back seat. Well?

I had to say Dylan was going to be with us. Faith rubbed her brow. They were not happy about it. Karen is fussing over me like no-body's business. This is becoming impossible.

I told you to just accept a date to the prom! Didn't I? Anne scolded. Jimmy Markus asked you, and he's a harmless geek! You could have doubled with us, Karen would have been happy, and the question of your love life would be over and done with.

Faith shook her head. I haven't been able to even look at another guy since the marking. It was true, there had been no one she wanted to spend time with since she'd kissed Garrett, completing the bonding. Just looking at another guy made her feel odd, the idea of dating, out of the question. The only male outside of family members that she was comfortable with was Ryan.

Ryan snickered. Classic. You set a trap and got yourself caught!

Anne sighed, Once Graduation is over and done with, things will seem less pressured. We'll be going home and things will settle down.

Faith closed her eyes, I hope so, but once we get home, I'm going to make an appointment with the healer. Maybe he can do something about these bad dreams.

Anne smiled wistfully, Home. That sounds so lovely.

Home, Faith said in agreement, it was how she thought of Gendawyn these days.

Well, Quipped Ann from the front seat, your nightmares could have been worse if you’d have kissed Quinn instead of Garrett.

Ryan, driving toward the school smiled. We'll be going home soon enough, ladies. For now, though, let's get the mundane day to day taken care of. He soon pulled into the student parking lot. Hey, I heard Mr. Woodland is retiring.

Faith was thinking about Anne’s comment, but looked up having caught Ryan’s. He's not that old, you sure you don’t mean he’s taking a sabbatical?

Anne agreed. Ever since he got married, he's been talking about taking a sabbatical. Anne gathered the few books she needed to turn in that day.

A sabbatical is one thing, retiring? That's another thing altogether! Faith said as she stepped from the car. What will St. Andrew's do without him to run the English department?

Ryan shrugged. I just know he sold his house; he and his wife are packed up and ready to go once the school year is officially over.

Faith looked at Anne; I'm going to see Mr. Woodland before we leave today. So wait for me, okay?

~*~

Mr. Woodland watched, students fled with the last bell of the day. Yes, go! He teased, Fly to your busy lives. He leaned back in his chair, and looked at the classroom. He had a good stay here, and now it was time to go. A tapping at the door drew his attention. Ah, Miss Lothian, do come in.

Faith came to his desk. I understand you're leaving us.

I understand you're leaving us as well. He countered. Rumor has it,you and your two cohorts are off to Europe.

Faith nodded, Yes, well, there comes a time when a bird must spread its wings.

Poetic, my dear. Woodland praised as he rose to his feet, took Faith's hands into his. He kissed her brow. Be happy, my dear.

You too. Faith said, feeling suddenly emotional. Thank you for everything you taught me. For all the skills you honed. And the hunger for knowledge you ignited.

Woodland leaned back, You are so very welcome, Faith.

~*~

Faith arrived home at the end of her school day to find Karen suffering with yet another migraine. The frequency of these episodes was beginning to be a concern. Faith wished her stepmother would just make an appointment with the family doctor and be done with it.

She took both her siblings to the park, allowing Karen some quiet. Derek now with endless energy was overjoyed about going to the park. Faith called the dog to her side, knowing his bark could shatter the most fragile quiet.

The park was still magical for Faith, she loved sharing it with her siblings. As they crossed the bridge to her meadow. She pulled the stroller over to the old pavilion styled gazebo. Once inside she told the tale of a Half-ling who became King, of his magical kingdom and its subjects. Of his brother who gave up everything so the king could live happily ever after. She hadn't planned on telling that part, and it was mystifying that she didn't seem able to tell the story without it. 'Quinn', she thought to herself bitterly, 'Why are you so in my mind? You're gone.'

~*~

The crystal misshapen orb in the gloved hand showed the girl in the park with the children. The face watching, smiled. Faith. He said softly.

Dylan found the King sitting on the window ledge. Watching Faith again, Sire? The King's Archer smiled, She'll be here soon enough. They all graduate in just a few days time.

Garrett looked wistfully at the orb. I enjoy watching her. What he didn’t say, was he felt a deep need to watch her. There was a great many things he’d left unsaid, between himself and the Archer.

Really? Dylan raised a brow. I'd have never guessed it. He looked at the misshaped orb, Still having trouble with that? I'd have thought with the amount of practice you do that you'd have perfected the shape.

The King frowned, lowered the hand with the orb. The days of being able to pull shards of crystal from the air were gone. Dylan? he was troubled, feeling like he was losing control. This graduation... is it open to the public?

Yes, of course. It's held on the School's athletic field, and everyone sits up in the stands, that is, unless the weather gets bad, then it's in the Field House, and that's limited seating. Why?

Make arrangements for us. The King left the ledge. I wish to attend.

You think that's wise? Dylan resisted.

Garrett shrugged. I don't really care if it is or it's not. I want to see Faith graduate. I want to surprise her. He tossed the orb into the air, it vanished. I feel a need to be part of it.

Yes, Sire. Dylan bowed to the Fae King. As you wish.

~*~

Graduation Day arrived, a day of official ceremonies, of wonderful traditions. Young men in formal suits, young ladies in long elegant gowns in soft pastels. It was all very formal and very beautifully staged. Faith was helping other girls with last minute touch ups. Anne was helping pin boutonnières on the boys lapels who were having difficulties with the pins.

Ryan was pacing like a caged cat. Faith dropped the brush in her hand, began to breathe as if she had a weight on her chest. She ran over to Ryan, "He's here." She pulled him to the window, to see. There, Dylan is with him.

Anne came over as well. "What is he doing here?"

Ryan closed his eyes. I can't get through... He frowned, I should be able to speak to him.

~*~

Dylan and his companion took seats in the stands. Dylan looked at the program they had. Here, he pointed to the name Faith Lothian.

The slender man with a shock of blond hair in muted tones looked at the name, and the achievements behind the name. He smiled. That's my girl. He said aloud.

Dylan tapped him on the shoulder. Those are her parents sitting there. He pointed toward a handsome couple holding two young children in their arms. And next to them is the Mother and her... I'm not sure what he is, boyfriend, lover, husband.

Garrett shrugged, Does not matter what he is. It's the parents I'm concerned with. He looked at the boy in the man's arms. Derek. He said softly. My, how he's grown. Garrett looked then at the woman holding a little girl, and his smile all but vanished.

Dylan followed the King's gaze. Sire?

Garrett shook his head, not wishing to discuss what he was seeing. There was a shadow, and it was intruding on what should be a happy day. There were too many shadows, his included.

~*~

Both Anne and Ryan were seated closer to the front of the class. Faith was seated further back. The teaching staff all wore their robes and degree hoods for the ceremony. One by one, the names were called and the superintendent of the School handed out the diplomas.

Faith headed over to her parents who had come onto the field when the ceremony ended. She hugged her dad, and accepted the kisses of both Karen and her mom. Jeremy took pictures of all of them, saying this was a rare occasion and it should be immortalized on film. Faith supposed he thought himself witty, and once not too long ago she'd have agreed.

Dylan approached. Faith, he was smiling and so was his companion.

Faith held out her hands to her long time friend and they kissed each other on the cheek. Dylan, how good to see you! You know my parents don't you?

Yes. Dylan shook hands with Robert and nodded to Jeremy. Mr and Mrs Lothian, I'd like to introduce my employer, Mr. Garrett King.

Garrett stepped forward. Hello. He turned to Faith. Congratulations, Faith.

Karen looked at the handsome strange man. You know our daughter?

We've met a few times at the complex. Garrett said smoothly. I've always been impressed by this young lady.

Faith wanted to crawl into a hole. Thank you, Garrett. Something was off, she wasn't sure what, but Garrett was giving her strange vibes, and double vision. Looking at him was giving her a slight headache.He was using some kind of ward she wasn’t use to.

Robert frowned, You say you met at the complex?

I own it. Garrett said, Along with about a dozen other gaming complexes. Very good business, gaming. He looked back at Faith and winked. You meet such nice people.

Karen said, How nice.

Linda's reaction wasn't much like Karen; she was seeing an available male who was able to support more than his own weight. And where is Mrs. King? Faith shot her a warning glare, Linda ignored it completely.

Garrett smiled sweetly at the ladies. There is no Mrs. King, as of yet.

Robert was frowning. You know my daughter is under aged. He said directly.

Faith was shocked, Daddy!

Dylan held his breath. Both Linda and Karen gasped at Robert. Jeremy snickered.

~*~

Garrett took a royal stance, I assure you, I've been a perfect gentleman at all times. 

Robert narrowed his eyes, See that you continue. He growled, took Derek's hand and walked away being followed by his former and present wives.

Garrett looked down at Faith he smiled and teased. That went well, He took hold of her hand, Under-aged? I guess he's forgotten your last birthday.

Faith pulled her hand free, What are you doing here? I told you I'd be home in a few days.

I couldn't wait. He pouted, You don’t seem happy to see me.

She shook her head, Look, we'll talk about this later. Right now I have to go face that man, when I'd rather face a hungry dragon. She kissed Anne and then shook her head at Garrett once more.

~*~

Robert excused himself from the celebration, Faith, I need to talk to you. He called from his study.

Yes, Daddy?

He motioned her to come in and close the door. I want to know what's between you and this King fellow?

I'm not sure what you mean, Daddy. The girl hedged.

Robert snapped the pencil he had been holding. Faith, have you been seeing this man behind my back? Are you dating him?

I've seen him in the complex, he owns it and he's taken part in some of the fantasy games. She could say very truthfully. We have not been dating. That too was true.

Is that man part of the trip to Europe? Robert growled.

No, Daddy. He is not... Again, she was being truthful.

Robert paced. I'm not sure I'm going to be able to allow you to go, not now.

But Daddy! she protested. You agreed, a year of finding myself would be good for me.

"That was before I met your friend." He snapped. He left his office and Faith sat down.

Oh dear. She put her hand to her head.

~*~

Returning to Gendawyn, Garrett entered the Healers chambers with a stern face. Healer, we've got problems.

We, Sire? The healer was getting used to the way the King now spoke in the plural.

The King spun around. "It's been over a year and we are no closer to assimilating! We are still two separate beings in here." He pointed to his head.

Talbot, the Healer, frowned. Sire, I've told you this was beyond my skills. I have asked you to seek the help of others who may know more about merging. I’ve suggested a Fae healer more than once. You need one who is familiar with the secretive side of your ilk.

I'm not all Fae, The King reminded as he paced, I wanted to keep this quiet. I don't want it out of the Kingdom!

"How does he feel about this? The Healer questioned. He has a say as well, you know."

Garrett's facial expression changed slightly. I would like to on my own again. Had I known he was planning to waste my efforts and my body, I would have never suggested we merge.

The Healer bowed. My Lord Quinn, how are you?

Quinn did not pace, he lounged lazily. I'm just dandy. Unlike nervous Nelly.

The Lady Faith's arrival home does not affect you? Talbot raised a brow.

On the contrary, Healer. I look forward to seeing the Lady Faith, Quinn said with a husky voice. We've some unfinished business between and betwixt us. He then chuckled, darkly.

Talbot stood up and moved closer. He can't hear you, can he? When Quinn shook his head, the Healer gasped. When did that start?

Nearly as soon as we merged, there were thoughts we each wished to keep private. Quinn mused. Most of the time, we are side by side. Because he was in a weakened state when I absorbed him; I can hear him. Every now and then, I feel the need to stretch. Quinn hesitated, then added, Recently, he's become fatigued and can't hold the waking state. And he’s using shields on his actions.

The Healer was now pacing. You can spend time on the outside and he has no recollection of it?

None. Unless I want or need him to recall, Quinn answered with satisfaction. Oh, and Talbot, it would be better for him just now if he remained unaware of that fact. We wouldn’t want to upset him, not with Faith coming home.

Lord Quinn, you play dangerous games! Talbot shot back.

You're my healer as well as his. Patient confidentiality... Quinn reminded the Healer.

Talbot protested loudly. I will not do anything that puts the Kingdom or Lady Faith in jeopardy!

Quinn laughed softly. I don't want her in jeopardy; I want her in my bed.

She is the marked consort of the King. The healer gasped.

Talbot. Quinn rose to his feet. "This body belongs to the King, it's all that is left of the King. To all intents and purposes, I am the King... or at least I am part of the King. He walked with a slow practiced grace. And Talbot, it's good to be the King."

~*~

The week after the graduation, Faith canceled out on an evening of gaming. Robert and Karen had been called out of town. Karen's father had been in a serious car accident and they were needed at the hospital. Karen was her father's only family, as next of Kin, she needed to be there. Robert, who had set up all the legal dealings for his Father-in-law, went along to make sure everything was according to Hoyle.

Faith called Anne and gave her a message to give to Dylan. She knew Dylan would handle His Nibs. It was early on Saturday evening when the phone rang, Faith knew it was her father checking up. Hello, Daddy. She said in a calm tone.

Hello, Faith. We've arrived and are at the hospital. Is everything alright there? The connection was crackling. This connection isn't good.

Yes, Daddy, just fine. The kids are fed, bathed and watching a video. She looked over to where two little towheads were giggling. We're all fine.

Are you alone? Her father asked sternly.

Yes, Daddy, she snapped. I'm alone.

Good! he snapped back. Remember what I told you, I don't even want Anne or Ryan in the house this time.

"I gave you my word! No one comes in through the front door." She repeated.

Back door too! Her father said hotly.

Faith clenched her jaw. I don't know why you don't trust me.

Just remember what I said. He said. The Doctor is coming to talk to us. I'll call you again later; be there!

Faith hung up the telephone, stuck her tongue out at the receiver. She looked over, making sure Derek had not seen what she'd just done. The little boy was hugging his little sister and laughing at the movie Faith had put in the video player. She sighed; at least they were having a good time.

~*~

Dylan was at the portal, and seeing only Anne and Ryan he frowned. Where's Faith?

Babysitting. Anne said. Her stepmother's dad was in an accident and her folks had to fly out to Florida to handle things. So Faith's stuck at home with the kids.

"He's not going to like this. Dylan warned. He's been talking about her for a week. Nonstop!"

It gets worse, Dylan. Ryan crossed his arms. She's not allowed to let anyone in the front or back doors, her Father's orders. As they entered the portal, coming out on the Gendawyn side, Ryan asked. Do you want to tell him or should I?

I'll do it. Dylan stated. He's been acting strange of late. And I seem to be able to at least deal with it.

Garrett was pacing the throne room when they entered, practicing some kind of speech. He looked magnificent in his dark midnight formal array. It was evident that he'd dressed for the occasion, turning and seeing only Anne and Ryan he frowned, Where's Faith? he asked quickly.

There's been a change of plans, Sire. Dylan said stiffly. She's taking care of her siblings.

Garrett looked over at Ryan, What happened?

Her stepmother's father was in a serious car accident, Sire. They had to go out of state, her parents left Faith at home to keep the kids on schedule.

Anne added. Hospitals aren’t for little kids.

Agreed, Garrett paced. Damn... I wanted to talk to her... I needed to talk to her.

Ryan moved closer. She's not allowed to have anyone in, not even Anne or I. Her father said no one through the front or back doors.

Garrett's expression changed slightly. I see. The voice was the same, but sounded like he wasn’t taking this seriously. Well, why don't you both settle in. I'll see you come morning. We'll have a ride out to the new bridge Dylan constructed, shall we? He started to walk away, then the walk turned to a clipped jaunt.

Babalouie! Ryan shouted. Where do you think you're going? Babalouie, get back here! Don't do it, Babalouie! 

Garrett laughed, and escaped through the very portal they had just entered.

Anne looked at Ryan. He's going to make things worse, he's going to make trouble for her.

What else is new? Ryan took his Lady's hand, and headed for the dining hall where Celestia would be waiting. Dylan hesitated a moment, trying to figure something out.

~*~

A storm was beginning to brew outside, there was wind howling and thunder booming, and a fine rain had started. Faith frowned; it was like another stormy night she could recall. Faith had to fight with Mercury to get him in the garage. He was soaked, and howling at the lightning.

Come on, you big baby! she tugged his leash. This is for your own good! She shoved the hairy beast into the garage and closed the side door. Coming in the laundry room she removed the water-resistant Pancho and shook it out, hanging it to dry. She kicked off her soaked loafers and pulled off the socks as well. After drying her feet with a towel she padded barefoot into the family room where the movie was just ending.

Okay, Derek, Kerry, time for bed. She reached down to pick up the little girl.

Derek giggled as a bolt of lightening lit up the night sky. Storm sounds funny. He said happily. It says it wants to play!

Oh really? Faith said. You take up talking to storms, have you? The little boy shrugged and continued to walk up the stairs with his sisters. Faith ushered him into the nursery. Get in the bathroom and brush your teeth and do whatever it is you have to do... I don't want any silliness tonight.

Derek laughed at her, Faith checked on the condition of Kerry's diaper, found it dry and got her tucked up in bed. Kerry now slept with one of Faith's fluffy old stuff toys, just as Derek slept with Karen's bear. Kerry's big blue eyes were heavy with sleep. Faith wound up the little music box. The tune had never sounded right after the box had been dropped a dozen or so times when she was little. She sang softly with the music while she waited for Derek, the words of her own making. When the little boy jumped into his youth bed, he held his arms out to his sister for a hug.

Faith knelt down and kissed him, tucked him up and rewound the music box. Not even the raging storm seemed to disturb them. Soon they were drifting into gentle sleep, their little faces flush with dreams.

Faith turned off the light, looked around the room, and went toward the French doors to make sure the latch we properly connected. As she neared something startled her, and she drew back. Curtains flapped furiously at the window. The glass began to shudder, and the french doors blew open.

Silhouetted against the stormy sky, a man stood on the balcony. Nasty night, isn't it? He asked, brushing off the rain and entering the room.

What are you doing here? Faith asked in a tight whisper. She shut the windows and locked them again. Didn't you get my message?

Hello to you, too. He mocked. Fine way to greet someone you haven’t seen in weeks.

Faith held a finger up to her lips and whispered tersely. I just got them to sleep.

Garrett snickered, and walked over to the crib. She's about the same age as Derek was when he first visited us, isn't she? He looked closer, and frowned. Are those the same PJ's?

Faith hushed him again; looking over to her brother was wriggling under his blanket. Don't wake them! She warned. No, those are not the same, they're a different pair same pattern. She placed her hand on the crib and looked down. Karen is wild for stripes.

I don't like them, he joked lightly, Makes them look like little prisoners, all they need are leg irons.

Faith slapped his arm slightly and sighed. She thinks they are cute. Then she nudged him. What are you doing here, I sent you a message didn't you get it?

I got it. He teased. No visitors, not through the front door or the back. He mimicked Faith's father's voice.

Yeah, well? she waved at him.

Leaning closer, he whispered in her ear. I used a window... technically, no rule broken.

That’s the most asinine thing I’ve ever heard you say, Faith lowered her head to the crib rail and moaned slightly. You have to go!

Not just yet. He said softly, and waved a hand. Now, we can talk. He said in a normal tone.

Shhhh. She warned. You'll wake them up!

No, I won't. He said. Then he pointed down at the baby in the crib.

Faith looked at Kerry, her breathing had gone very deep. What did you do?

Just deepened their sleep a little, perfectly harmless. He said mildly, leading her away from the crib. I would prefer you didn't have to worry over waking them while we... visit. He looked at her. I seem to remember you wearing a vest and shoes the last time I saw this ensemble.

Faith looked down; she had pulled on the poet's shirt without even thinking about it. Well, the vest has seen better days, and my shoes got soaked bringing in Mercury.

Ah yes, the great hairy beast you keep company with, he’s enough to make Kujo jealous. Garrett brushed her hair back from her face.

Faith shivered. What are you doing?

Nothing. He smiled. Yet.

Garrett, I really appreciate that you came to check up on me... but... She looked at him. It was the same cocky smile he had worn that first time, the same handsome and provocative garments. It was the look in the eyes that troubled her. It unlike him, the color of his eyes had changed gone more... More like.... She pulled back, Oh no! How did you get out? she moved to put the crib between them.

He smiled. Now Faith, He circled the crib. Why don't you play nice?

How did you get out? I thought Garrett was in control. She moved carefully.

He is, most of the time. The darker side teased. But every now and again, I need to stretch. He extended his arms, stretching and making manly sounds.

Faith went to stomp and found a barefoot did not make quite the same impression. I want you to leave. She pointed to the window he had entered. Go, the way you came in!

Hands on his hips, he shook his head. No, you don't. Faith backed away, but he vanished, only to appear behind her. She backed right into him. His arms came around and captured her. Hello, again. He growled in her ear.

Quinn, stop it. She struggled.

The darker side was not impressed. "We've come to talk, and so talk we shall. We can do this nicely or not. Faith ceased struggling, standing still in his embrace. That's better. He softly cooed to her. Much better." He tightened his embrace and held her close.

What do you want? She asked.

"Many things, Faith Lothian, I want freedom. I want to do things. Go places. I want my life back... He said firmly. Then his voice changed and went somber, not playful. And that can never be."

Faith swallowed. I know you gave up a lot to save Garrett,

You've no idea of what I gave up. He warned darkly.

She nodded. You're right, I don't. No one does.

Slowly he turned her to face him. I'm not even a lingering thought to most people. He complained bitterly. "All anyone sees is Garrett. It's my body, my face, my eyes and all they see is Garrett."

I'm sorry. She whispered.

He looked down, the feral look returning. Not even a lingering thought, except in you, Faith Lothian.

Me? she croaked out, suddenly very much afraid and not sure of what.

Yes, you... He murmured seductively. You've been dreaming of me, haven't you?

Faith cleared her throat. Once or twice... maybe... She looked around for a means of escape.

A bit more than that, I think. Your dreams are calling to me. We've unfinished business between us, Faith Lothian. He announced. Her eyes widened in apprehension. "You want to know what I want, well, I will tell you. I want my kiss." Lightning struck nearby and the Fae vanished.

Faith collapsed on the floor and grabbed her knees. Oh my... She began to rock.

~*~

Quinn paced the turret, away from the eyes of the court, away from the observation of the champions. Fingertips clad in leather, tapping the chin of the King. So deep in thought, he had not even noticed the dragon that landed and was perched upon the parapet. Back and forth, he paced.

Angus watched, then hunkered down. Quinn.

Angus. Quinn returned the greeting. What are you doing out so late?

The old dragon chuckled. "What are you doing out, is more to the point." He flashed a toothy smile at the young Fae.

Quinn moved closer, It was getting crowded in here. He pointed to his head. You have any idea of what's like to listen to his thoughts day in and day out? The man is a worrying ninny! And get him thinking about that girl.... Quinn crossed his arms and huffed.

Ah, the girl. I thought we'd get round to her sooner or later. Angus mused. So tell me Quinn, The accent got deeper and darker. Is it true ye made her dicker o'er the price o ye brother?

Quinn covered his eyes and nodded. You heard?

Angus snickered loudly. I hear tell, ye also set a hefty price. When again the Fae nodded, Angus sighed; and what would that be now?

A kiss. Quinn said in a low voice. He was fairly certain that the old lizard already knew.

Ah, the old dragon nodded his head up and down. Seems a wee bit small. He nudged the Fae with his shoulder. Why a Kiss, Quinnie me lad?

Originally, to sever the bonding. Quinn shrugged. She is not a Fae... He stopped himself, and corrected. At least I didn’t think so at the time.

No, but she's not a Mortal either, Quinnie. Warned the dragon, he sniffed, You've her scent all over you, laddie. Been to see her then?

"He went to see her, and faltered, and I came shooting out. Quinn began to pace again. She must be a witch or a siren of come kind."

Oh, and why would that be, laddie? the Dragon was enjoying the dilemma.

Quinn began speaking, more to himself again. "There's just no justice. I give up my life... my life... and still I'm beguiled by that brown eyed little witch."

What did ye do Quinnie? Angus asked lightly.

I told her I wanted my payment for saving Garrett. Quinn covered his eyes. I told her I wanted my kiss.

That must be some Kiss you demanded, Laddie. The old dragon laughed.

Quinn thought back to his demands, A kiss, given freely, open mouthed, closed eyes... and tongues.... Quinn smiled crookedly, yes, it's some kiss I have planned alright.

Angus fell off the turret laughing. Quinn watched the winged lizard glide off into the night. You old fool, keep your silence! Leaning on the parapet, gazing at the Kingdom that was his, but not his, Quinn whispered. It would have broken the half bond of Garrett, and it would have bonded her to me. He sighed and let the wind whip through his hair. To me.

~*~

Faith sat on the floor of the nursery. She had not moved from the spot since the Fae had left her. She was not even sure she could leave, until the telephone rang and she picked it up. Hello?

Faith, it's Karen. A voice said tearfully.

How's your dad? Faith asked.

He's holding his own, it's still touch and go. Her stepmother sighed. How are the kids?

Asleep... we're in the middle of a huge storm, and I'm actually expecting the power to go out. Faith teased. So I'm hunkered down on their bedroom floor.

I have total confidence in you being able to handle the situation. There was background talk and then Karen said