The Heart of the Half Blood

By Crystal Bowlen

Monster, witch, filthy little half blood. She’d heard it all before. With parents from both the human and the magical worlds, Liluye belonged to neither. Rejected by her family, she learned to live a lie. By denying her Fae roots, she could live in relative peace in the Deandi Capital. But when her dearest friend was captured by Drochmarky soldiers, Liluye had no choice but to expose her secret. Law dictates that she should be banished from the capital, but the prince has other ideas.
But war has been declared by the wicked king of Drochmark. The magical land of Tierian is all that keeps a full on battle at bay.
Swept up in the midst of everything, Liluye must find a way to bring unity and cooperation between the lands of her parents. Only by working together can both nations be free of the growing shadow to the north. And only by making peace with her past can Liluye hope to find a future with the man who would claim her heart.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Aug 29, 2017
• ISBN: 9781387195282

Book preview

The Heart of the Half Blood

The Heart of the Half Blood

By Crystal Bowlen

A special thanks to my husband for always believing in me. Without him I never could have accomplished all that I have…

Prologue

Nolan watched the little girl as she wandered along the outskirts of the forest. She couldn’t have been much older that twelve, out gathering herbs. No doubt a child from the nearby village. This may have been a grey area between Tierian and Deandi, but she was getting dangerously close to the creatures that lurked within the Tierian Woodlands. Foolish child. Why has she strayed so far from home? She will make a tasty meal once that sun sets. He glanced towards the sky from his hiding spot up in the trees, the sun was already getting low. She’s old enough to know better.

With a sigh he took flight. In this form, he was little taller than a squirrel on its hind legs. Even if she did notice him, he wouldn’t appear to be more than a bird fliting about, rather than a fairy. Nolan drew closer to the girl, positioning himself behind a tree. With hands cupped around his mouth, he imitated a raven’s call. A signal to his partner further inside the forest. Peering around the rough bark of the tree, he watched the girl, she’d frozen midway through plucking a bit of sage. Her eyes were wide and he could tell she was on full alert, listening to the sounds of the forest. The bird call had startled her. After a few moments, with no further calls, she continued her work.

Nolan flew to a tree on the other side of her. He made another animal call, something small and indiscernible, but enough to give the girl pause again. He smirked.  Sometimes he had a little too much fun scaring the humans away from the woods. He flew behind her and snapped a dry stick. The girl jumped and spun around, her breathing had picked up pace.

H…Hello? Is that you Steven? With a trembling hand she tucked a stray hair behind her ear. A moment of silence was enough to ease her mind and she turned back to the sage.

Bold little thing aren’t you? Alright, fine. Shrinking down just a little more for maximum speed, he shot just past the back of her head. This time she screamed as she spun around.

Enough! This isn’t funny Steven! Show yourself!

Safe on a branch and out of sight, he let out a loud chuckle.

Come on! She whimpered. Stop it!

A loud crashing sound came from deep within the forest. Something big was bumbling towards them.  Ah, the cavalry has arrived. He watched as the girl began to panic, backing away from the noise and a little closer to the place she was supposed to be. A moment later a huge hulking creature could be spotted charging towards the girl. The big, ugly humanoid thing as running straight for her. She let out a blood curdling scream and high tailed it out of the forest, dropping her basket as she went.

Hmmf, dropped her basket. He always felt a little guilty when they dropped something on the run. All that hard work gone to waste. But judging from her screaming, she’d not be making the mistake of coming back any time soon.

Hello there Rugnick! He called as he flew over to the basket. It was just about that point where the giant stopped, watching to make sure the girl kept running.

Rugnick do good? The huge thing looked dumbly down at Nolan as he grew big enough to comfortably pick up the basket.

Rugnick do very good! She’ll not be coming back anytime soon I suspect. Thank you for coming so quickly. Here, he handed the giant the basket, for your troubles.

The troll accepted the little basket and sniffed at the contents inside before smiling. Nolan wasn’t sure what all was inside, but Rugnick’s wife would no doubt find some use for the herbs, or else trade them for something more to their liking. The girl would not be returning for them while they were still fresh. With a grunt of appreciation, he turned to go back into the forest.

Nolan turned back to the direction of the girl had run. Someday they’ll learn to stay away I hope. A trig snapped deep within the underbrush. Could be a rabbit, or it could have been something more sinister. This close to the troll’s territory, there was no telling what foul beast would be nearby. Nolan took to the skies, returning to his patrol of the forest boundaries. Alert to the dangers that would be creeping out with the setting sun, ensuring that humans stayed well enough away while keeping those dangerous beings well within the boundaries.

Chapter 1

How the hell did I get myself into this situation? Lilu asked herself as she struggled to remain airborne. She glanced nervously at her friend Jess. She looked terrified. Lilu couldn’t remember ever seeing her look so bad. Her blonde hair was all disheveled, her face smudged with dirt, and the dark circles under her eyes suggested long sleepless nights and too much worry. At least there was no trace of recent tears. Jess may be high born and pampered, but she held it together well for her charge, Princess Anne.

Straining, she peaked to her other side at the little girl clinging to her brother, her face buried in his shirt. I have to break free. A second hand snagging her other ankle snapped her attention back down. No! No! No! It was too much weight. The tall brute was pulling her and the others down with the help of more ruffians.

Come here you little bitch! the big one grunted. Lilu continued to squirm, trying to break herself out of his grasp. She was already carrying as much as she could, there was no way she could take the big brute too.

I can’t give up, if I do, we’re all dead.

Not a chance! Prince Atticus responded. A swift kick at the nearest thugs arm was enough to dislodge him. With a twist, Lilu was able to free her other foot and kick the other thug away.

She’d been straining too hard to gain upward momentum. The sudden release sent the four of them shooting upward WHOA! She yelled as she struggled to steady herself. Atticus and Jess tightened their grips on her shoulders. Anne let out a frightened squeak. But they made it! They were free and out of reach, well out of reach of hands anyways.

Lilu tensed as an arrow whizzed by her face. She felt the sting as it grazed he cheek.

Come on, higher! She focused on the sky above and pushed herself as hard as she could. She barely registered the general yelling at the poor soul who had shot at them. The royal children were of no use to King Ras if they were dead. Had she looked down she’d have seen the shooter’s head go rolling. No one else dared let loose another arrow.

Satisfied that they were out of arrow range at last, Lilu let out a sigh of relief. She hadn’t noticed that she’d been holding her breath.

Jess let out a triumphant cry You did it Li! You saved us! She had to shout over the wind. They were moving at her top speed.

Not yet, I still have to get all of you back to the castle.

You can do it Li! You’ve made it this far! She had to admire her friend’s enthusiasm. Especially after such a horrible ordeal.

How long will it take? Lilu glanced sideways at the prince. In the growing light she finally was able to get a good look at him: his warm brown eyes, strong jawline, and tussled brown hair. She realized how handsome he was, even with the swollen eye and rugged scruff. Remember your place Lilu. She quickly looked away.

Two, maybe three days your highness. I’ve never flown so far, and I don’t typically carry so much weight. Shit, way to insult the prince about his weight. N...Not that you’re heavy your grace, she stammered, it’s just that…

You’re doing fine Even shouting she could hear the smirk in his voice.

Is he making fun of me? I mean I know I’m a half-breed, but really? I just saved your ass!

I’d better focus on flying your grace. She was unsure if he could detect the irritation in her voice.

They flew in silence. Not much sense in shouting at each other anyway. Lilu could feel some of the tension melting away on either side of her. She settled in to a slower pace, they had a lengthy journey ahead. So long as she stayed in contact with them, she could channel her energy into them, making it easier to hold on. Still, after a few hours she was starting to feel the strain. It was still too soon to stop. In an effort to distract herself, she thought about how she’d gotten herself so far from home.

What do you mean lost? Lilu practically shouted at Kathrine, the castles lead cook. Lilu had been delivering a fresh batch of truffles from Tierian Forest. Lady Jessica was the Princess Anne’s nanny. Anne was a sweet little 7 year old that Jess absolutely adored. Lilu may not have been high born, but she was often able to sneak a quick visit in with her friend on these little visits to the castle kitchens.

How does a heavily guarded convoy just get lost? Surely they didn’t announce publically that they were returning. They should have been safe come home four nights ago. What was his majesty thinking, sending his children so far away? He knows there is trouble brewing up north.

The king’s mother insists on seeing her grandchildren at least once a year. It’s not too far from here, it shouldn’t have been a problem. I just don’t understand how King Ras was able to get to them. Between the Tierian Forest and the limits of the mountain pass, we should be safe from Drochmark! Kathrine looked a little more worried as she finished.

Lilu picked at her dirty nails as she mulled over what she knew. She was aware of the secrets of that forest. She’s spent many years within the safety of those woods, knowing full well that fear kept outsiders away. If the King of the North had made peace with the darker beings that roamed there, it was possible that they would have helped him pass. They took no sides in the affairs of humans, but could be persuaded at times. Especially if it brought chaos and misery to others.

What is the king doing about it?

The cook sighed, Not much he can do. To send his men into the forest would be suicide, not to mention a direct violation of the treaty. But it’s the fastest way. Best he could do was send search parties through the mountains and by sea.

Where were they last seen?

Mapleton, about six days ago if you believe the gossip. Why?

Just thinking….Look, I better go, I have another delivery to make. Thanks! She turned to leave and Kathrine patted her shoulder.

You needn’t worry sweetie, the king will find a way to get them home safe. They only have a few days head start.

I sure hope so. But will they keep Jess alive? Lilu gave the woman a small smile and went on her way. There was a dealer in the market that always gave her a fair price for her goods. He would be expecting her soon.

She knew her friend was in trouble. The only person to ever really show her kindness and understanding despite who she was. A smile spread over her face as she remembered the first time she’s taken Jess flying. But it was quickly replaced by a grimace when she imagined what Jess was going through right now.

No, she couldn’t let her suffer. If she was alive, she was walking towards her doom. A beautiful, high born young maiden like her would fetch a hefty price either in ransom or slavery. Lilu shuddered, to think of what some dirty rich man would force her to do, or worse. King Ras himself. The man was known for his cruelty. He would show her no mercy.

Whoever took them had a good head start. The king’s men would have left a few days behind them. Without knowing how to pass safely through the forest, they would never catch them in time.

How long does it take to reach the Drochmark? A quick calculation in her head and Jess had two weeks tops. Less if they were cutting through Tierian. There was only one person fast enough to reach them in time. She swallowed the lump in her throat. If she was going to save her friend, she’d have to fly north herself.

Lilu spent the rest of the day preparing. After selling her truffles in the market, she used the money to buy supplies. If this worked, she’d have to scavenge in the forest, but Jess would be alive. Assuming the king even let her remain in the kingdom. Her gifts would be revealed to the Prince and Princess. Half-breeds like her were simply not allowed in the capital. 

With a deep breath and one last look around her small room, Lilu slipped into the night. Despite the hour, she would still have to get outside of the city center before she could take flight.

As she walked, she went over the plan in her head. Best guess, the group that took her friend knew how to get through the forest. There was a road that most humans had forgotten about that would lead them through in relative safety. It would be the fastest way to Drochmark. With the shortcut and their lead time, they would reach the northern side of Tierian in just over a day. She would start there and make her way east along the forest towards the mountain pass.

I pray I’m right about this.

The sword she’d bought felt strange. She adjusted it and wondered if her trusty bow would have been a better choice. But there was a good chance that she’d be forced into close combat if she was caught sneaking around.

Please let me be stealthy! She was rusty with a sword, but it was her best option for what she was about to do.

Reaching a quieter part of town, she leapt in to the air. The moment the city was behind her, she felt a bit of the weight lift off her shoulders. This was her place. Here she was free from everyone. The cool wind whipped past her. It gave her strength and a little bit of much needed courage. Taking a deep breath, she oriented herself and picked up speed. With a good tailwind, she’d reach the northern edge of Tierian by nightfall the next day.

The trip went better than expected, but she was already getting tired. Sunset was an hour away, but the tree line was just ahead. She’d made it. Even better, there was a thin line of smoke just to the east.

It has to be them. No one would come this close to the border without a good reason. They were 10, maybe 15 miles away. She dropped lower, skimming the tops of the trees. One mile to go. This was a good place to land. She could walk the rest of the way and scout out the area.

The land was different here. The forest itself had more coniferous varieties. Beyond it was rocky, somewhat barren land. Small trees and shrubs popped up here and there. It was at least 10 degrees cooler here. She shivered and pulled her cloak about her. Part of the magic of flying was a cozy little buffer of warmth that reduced wind and blocked out the cold. But there on the ground it did her no good.

As she picked her way to the camp, she kept an eye out for any scouts. With each step, her heart pounded faster and faster.

What am I doing? I can’t take on a group of trained soldiers! She paused. It’s not too late to turn back. Surely the king’s men will be able to handle this. She took a tentative step forward. I could help them, get them here sooner. She rounded a large tree and the camp came in to view. Shit.

Straight ahead was a small encampment. Fifteen or so large tents with a few more being set up. Around the perimeter. A group of about 20 men, some on horses, were just arriving. They looked tired. At least a dozen of them appeared to be wounded to some degree. Those must be what’s left of the group that attacked the convoy.

Lilu crouched low, inching closer and scanning the group for any sign of her friend. Where is she? The newcomers began to thin out and finally she spotted them. She caught herself just before she called out to them. Oh Jessica, hang in there. Their hands and feet were in chains. Lilu watched as the prisoners were shoved roughly along. The little princess fell hard on the dirt. The men laughed as Jess and the prince rushed to her side. She couldn’t hear what was being said, but whatever the prince had said earned him a kick in the face. The men laughed again. Jess was consoling the little princess.

This is too much, there is no way I can allow them to wait here while I get help. But it was still too bright. Hang in there, I’ll think of something.

Staying out of sight, Lilu spied on the camp from the edge of the woods. Jess and her companions were dragged to a tent near the center of the camp. Satisfied with their location, she settled in and waited for the right time to make her move.

She curled up in the roots of a tree, shielding herself from some of the wind. The overcast sky would help her with cover, but right now she wished for some sun, or a fire. She ate a small dinner. She needed to keep her strength up. But she couldn’t sleep, she was worried she wouldn’t wake up in time.

Time crept by as the soldiers celebrated for the better part of the night. They must have assumed they were home free with the Tierian Forest between them and the men of Deandi.

Drink up assholes. Makes it easier for me to sneak in.

The moon was getting low behind the clouds. By now the guards should be getting tired. The camp was quiet and fires burned low. Without a sound, Lilu floated up into the night sky. She flew high and centered herself above the tent before dropping down.

Please don’t turn around. She pleaded silently with the two guards watching the tent. She had her sword drawn and ready should she need to silence them. In the dim firelight she could see the keys hanging off one of their hips.

Damn, I was hoping they would be inside. No matter, any street urchin worth their salt can pick a pocket.

Carefully she reached out for the keys. They were nearly off the loop when a few of them clanked together. Shit! She froze. The guard grunted and scratched his crotch. Classy. She took the keys and slipped quietly into the tent.

Embers from a small fire glowed dimly in the corner, casting just enough light to see the three figures shackled to the two posts that help up the tent. They appeared to be sleeping. Sheathing her sword, she tiptoed over to Jess. The princess was right by her side.

Carefully, she covered her friend’s mouth. Jess startled awake, eyes wide with fear. Lilu put a finger to her lips.Shhh. Her friend’s brow furrowed as she tried to focus on her assailant. Surprise replaced fear when she registered who it was.  

Mmnmm! Lilu shushed her friend a little louder and looked anxiously at the door.

They’re still out there she whispered.

Her friend nodded and Lilu let out a breath. Slowly, she removed her hand and started to unlock the shackles.

Li! What on earth are you doing here? You’ll be ki... She went silent as the princess stirred beside her.

Leaning over she whispered gently to the small child. It’s ok Anne, I’m here. You need to stay very quiet. Glancing around groggily, the princess spotted Lilu and jerked back, ready to scream. Shh! She’s my friend. She’s going to help us.

Lilu attempted a friendly smile. The girl relaxed a bit, but didn’t take her eyes off the stranger. Lilu started unlock the princess’ shackles when the hairs on the back of her neck stood on end. She froze, someone was watching her. With a hand on her hilt she turned slowly around. The prince was studying her through his one good eye. He’d taken quite the kick it seemed, the eye was almost completely swollen shut. He nodded and she continued to unlock the girl’s shackles.

As the girls rubbed feeling back into their wrists, Lilu moved over to the Prince. Reaching up to grab hold of the shackles above his head. She flushed, feeling his eyes on her as she moved.

What is he staring at? And why is it making me so uncomfortable?

Nervously she unchained his hands before moving down to his feet. The second he was free she quietly fled to the door, away from his intense gaze. She peeked outside, checking that the guards were still in place. Satisfied, she turned back to the others. The prince had finally stopped staring. He was next to his sister, giving her a big brotherly hug.

She moved back to the others. As she neared, he stood. She looked up at him. He was a good head higher than her. His shoulders were broad and strong, a swordfighter for sure. He stood erect, the posture of a king. It reminded her that to him, she was no more than a peasant. Hastily, and a little more clumsily than she would have liked, she kneeled before him. Your highness she whispered.

She nearly jumped when he placed a hand on her shoulder before reaching down to take her hand. He helped her to her feet. No time for that now milady. I take it the guards are still outside?

A tingle ran down her spine as he held her hand. Enough with being nervous, focus on the task at hand Li.

Yes your grace, two of them. I managed to sneak in behind them.

Understood Lady…

Lilu your grace, Lilu Gable….I am no lady. She kept her head down, not wishing to offend him. Unexpectedly, he tilted her chin up, forcing her to meet his gaze. She swallowed. Even in the dim lighting she could see he was handsome. She knew him to be a few years older than herself. His strong jaw was covered in scruff, overgrown from their long journey. His good eye seemed to see right through her. As dark as it was, she couldn’t tell the color, but that didn’t hinder the effect they had on her.

He’s a prince. She chided herself.

I’ll be the one to decide that Lady Lilu. But please, if it is just you, how are we to escape?

She was suddenly very aware that he was still holding her hand in his. Heat filled her cheeks and she prayed he couldn’t tell in the glow of the embers. Her heart was pounding as she pulled her hand free. I was going to…

What the hell? all eyes turned toward the guard at the door. It would seem he wanted to check on his prisoners after all. Intruder! he yelled, reaching for his sword.

Everything seemed to happen at once. Shouts erupted all over the camp. The other guard came bursting into the tent, and Prince Atticus reached forward and pulled her sword free. He pointed it at the guards, pushing Lilu behind him.

He advanced on the guards who seemed a little shocked at having found their prisoners free. Neither had even managed to free their sword. The first one was down within seconds, clutching his chest. The other was a little faster. Metal clanged against metal as the two men met near the door. Princess Anne screamed.

We have to get out of this tent Lilu shouted. She pulled the girls around the skirmish towards the entrance. Too late. Another guard was already rushing inside, blade drawn. Dropping Jessica’s hand, Lilu reached for the dagger in her belt. The guard smirked and stepped boldly forward.

Just what do you plan to do with that little lady?

Lilu glowered at him, she hated when big brutes underestimated her. She floated up, as high as she could in the tent. The man, shocked at what he was seeing, dropped his sword a few inches. His eyes went wide. Demon! was all he could get out before Lilu delivered a kick to the side of his face. Ow! He had a hard head. But it was enough. The man stumbled back, holding his face and dropping his sword.

She dove for the weapon, bringing it up and plunging it through his chest. Gasping, she dropped the sword, eyes wide with horror. She’d never killed anyone. Worry about it later, we have to get outside!

By now the prince had dispatched his foe. He walked over to Lilu. Hope you have a plan milady.

She nodded, heading back towards the door. More guards forced her to backpedal, nearly bumping into the prince.

They’re in here! He shouted. The camp was in a frenzy, trying to find the intruders. Still, more soldiers entered the tent, forcing them back. The only thing giving the soldiers pause was the princess’ sword. But they were in no hurry. The group was trapped. As large as the tent was, they already had their backs against the thick canvas.

Guess we take the back door! The prince spun around, slicing a long hole into the fabric and spurring the soldiers into motion. They lunged forward, five men in total, but Atticus was faster, cleaving the closest one with his steal. Get out of here!

Jess and Anne obliged, ducking out of the hole in the tent. But Lilu paused, wanting to help. Prince or no, Atticus clearly had skill with a sword. He was fighting back, forcing the soldiers to stay out of reach. They had him outnumbered, but that didn’t mean they wanted to get hurt swarming him.

Perhaps he can handle this. Hurry! she shouted as she ducked out of the tent.

The camp was in chaos. Fires were being lit and men were shouting and running about. She spotted the others just a few feet from the tent. They were somewhat hidden in between their tent and another. It felt good to be in the open again. She grabbed Jess around the waist Hold on to me. This wasn’t her first flight. Quickly, she threw an arm over Lilu’s shoulder. Jessica’s free hand held Anne close.

Come on, come on! She willed the prince to hurry. She could hear them scuffling around inside. It felt like hours before he backed out of the hole.

Time to go your highness! He rushed to her side and she grabbed the sword, quickly sheathing it while giving him instructions. Arm on my shoulder Prince Atticus. He obliged, Princess grab hold of your brother! Lilu wrapped a hand around his waist, just as a fresh group of soldiers rounded the corner. With the princess in place she yelled hang on and focused on letting her power flow into the others. The prince let out a surprised gasp as they started to float into the air, his sister clung tighter to him, wrapping her legs around his hips and squeezing his neck.

"You can fly?" The shock on his face was almost funny as they rose slowly. She wasn’t used to this, it took time to acclimate to new people. Until she did, they would be heavy.

The soldiers cried out. One even threw himself to the ground. Witch! Demon! They cried out. Lilu tried to tune them out, focusing on the task at hand. She just had to get in tune with the strangers and they would be off.

Come on. You can do this! A hand grabbed her ankle. Shit!

She hadn’t seen the big guy running up behind her.

Lilu. Lilu! Jess’ shout brought her out of her reverie.

Hm? she looked over at her friend.

We need to land! My arm is killing me and you clearly need a break! She looked a little worried.

She was right. Judging from the sun, they’d been flying at least four hours. Even weightless, that’s a long time to be holding on to someone. She nodded to her friend and searched for a safe place to land. Most of the Tierian Forest was uninhabited by anything but animals this time of year, but the land belonged to magical beings. A refuge for creatures of all types, just not humans. And not all magical creatures were friendly. Lilu had a right to be there, but with her passengers, she didn’t want to risk any trouble. She was just too tired.

She spotted a good place ahead. Not a sound from any of you when we land. Not until I give you the all clear. She landed quietly. Aside from stretching their sore muscles, they remained quiet. Humans were well aware of the dangers of these woods.

Lilu lifted off the ground again, hovering above the group.  She wanted it to be clear to anyone who might see that she was not completely human. Closing her eyes she stayed completely still. The energy of the forest flowed through her, giving her a slight sense of all the creatures in the area.

What is she…

Shh! Jess quieted the prince. Having been here a few times already, Jess knew what Lilu was doing.

Satisfied, Lilu settled back to the ground. I think we’ll be ok here for a while. Jess and Atticus started talking at once.

Oh Li, you did great!

How on earth did you do that?

How did you find us?

"Did my father send you?

But it was the look from Princess Anne that captured Lilu’s attention. With a mixture of fear and curiosity, she timidly asked: "Are you one of them?"

That seemed to stop the barrage of questions. Them, the others, the demons that lived in the forest. Preying on those who dared to venture too far into the woods. The scary beings that protected this land and stole into villages at night to cause trouble, feeding ghost stories and fairy tales. Every child in Deandi knew those stories. Lilu knew them too, she knew that fear and years of separation warped those stories. But the protectors of Tierian wanted it that way. They wanted to keep humans out. Despite many of the magical creatures being good, there were still those that would prey on defenseless humans. It was safer to keep their lands separated.

Of course n… Lilu held up a hand, quieting her friend. She knelt down, wide brown eyes meeting her sad green gaze. 

Not exactly Princess Anne. My mother was a woman of Deandi, much like yourself. But my father… She trailed off, unsure how to describe herself without scaring the poor child. So much fear surrounding her father’s people when in fact it was them that kept the real monsters from wreaking havoc outside the forest.

Would be very proud to have such a brave and caring daughter.

She looked at the prince in surprise. What?

He knelt down next to her Anne, we’d be in deep trouble had Lady Lilu not gotten to us when she did. She risked her life to save us. He turned his attention to Lilu. We owe her a great debt of gratitude for the risks she took.

He actually looks sincere. But why is he being so kind? Half-bloods are outcasts.

Um… She was cut off by a hug from Anne. It took her by surprise, nearly knocking her over. For such a little thing, she was strong.

Thank you Lady Lilu! She giggled and let her go. Any fear that was there before was replaced by a big smile. Lilu responded with a confused smile of her own.

Oh…You… You’re welcome Princess Anne. But really, it was nothing. Your father was already sending his men, I just happen to be a little faster.

Shit! The king’s men. I have to get word to them before they walk into that big encampment. No sense in them getting killed looking for people that are no longer there.

"We need to get going soon She stood and pulled off her pack. I have some provisions in my bag. It’s not exactly castle fare but it will keep the hunger away." She handed the bag to the prince, letting him have first pick.

Thank you, I am certain that it will seem like a grand feast compared to what we’ve had the last few days. The smile he gave her made her made her nervous. She fidgeted with a spot of dirt on her sleeve while he turned his attention to the bag.

You’re amazing Li. Jess said as she accepted bit of bread and cheese from the prince.

I’m just glad you’re ok Jess, I was really worried about you. She frowned at the small meal.

I really should have brought more.

The prince tried to hand her a portion. No thank you your highness, I’ll be fine with water. He frowned and handed her the extra water skin (the princess was happily guzzling down the other one).

You’ve been pushing yourself, you should eat.

Really, I’m fine. Thank you. It wouldn’t be the first time she didn’t eat much. The water was easy enough to replace, but there would be no time to gather food. She drank deeply and handed the skin to Jess. Hey let me see that cheek. Someone had given her a good smack, there was a small cut surrounded by a deep purple bruise. It wasn’t too bad, but it would be a distraction. The prince seemed to be watching her again. Not that he was leering or anything, he just seemed very curious about her. Hold still.

She placed a hand on her friend’s cheek and concentrated. A faint glow emanated from her hand as the discoloration from the bruise receded. The cut stitched itself back together. By the time she removed her hand, all that was left was a bit of dry blood.

Jess rubbed her cheek. Thank you Li! I didn’t want to bother you, but since you offered... Jess embraced her friend and whispered in her ear. Love you, you crazy girl. They both giggled.

You too Jess. She smiled.

Amazing. You can heal too? That’s so neat! Princess Anne said through her mouth full of food. She swallowed. Can you heal my brother too? His eye looks terrible! She scrunched her nose.

What a difference some food can make when you’re little.

Anne he scolded.

It’s alright. It’s not too hard, if you don’t mind? Lilu wasn’t sure if that would be overstepping her bounds. Touching him to escape was one thing, but this was more intimate.

Of course not….I was wondering how your own cut was able to heal so quickly. Lilu touched her face where the arrow had narrowly missed killing her. But you’ve done so much already, are you certain it’s not a bother?

She knelt down beside him. Not at all your highness. She placed a hand over his injured eye. They were face to face and it was hard to avoid his gaze. She closed her eyes, pretending to concentrate. In truth, her heart was racing.

My God woman, he’s just a prince! No need to get all flustered. Now concentrate unless you wish to look like a fool. It’s just another injury.

Keeping her breath calm and even, she let the warmth flow threw her and into him. She could sense the wound responding, slowly healing under her touch. Connected like this, she could sense his own heart pounding.

Must be nervous. The thought was disheartening. Sure, he puts on a kind front, but my touch sends his heart racing with fear. It wasn’t a pleasant though, but she held him no ill will. He was human royalty. As if a peasant’s touch wasn’t bothersome enough, her mixed blood roots were enough to condemn her in his eyes. He had been raised that way. It’s not as if the magical folk were any better. Many of them had no love for the humans.

As soon as he was healed she removed her hand. She looked him in the eye, checking her handiwork. He blinked a few times and smiled.

Was he this handsome before? Those mesmerizing eyes wouldn’t let her go. A girl could get lost in those eyes. So warm and kind.

Don’t fall for those brown puppy dog eyes. You know better.

She shook the thoughts away and started to get up. He stopped her, placing a hand on her forearm.

"Thank you Lady Lilu. I mean it. He was trying to look her in the eyes again, but she kept them averted.

Was there doubt in my face?

She pulled her arm out of his grasp. We should get going. We don’t want to get caught in the open. She stood and collected her bag, trying to ignore the way her heart fluttered at his touch.

They settled in for another long flight. Princess Anne actually seemed to be enjoying herself now. The impending sense of doom seeming to have worn off. It wasn’t every day that a young girl was able to fly. Lilu allowed herself to enjoy it as well. Even as weighed down as she was, it felt good to fly.

And being so close to the prince isn’t so bad either. She quickly squashed the thought, but smiled.

By midday they were ready for another break. This one, a little longer than the last. Though she tried not to show it, Lilu was feeling the strain. Yet there was still so much distance to travel. There was a safer place further south, she just had to get to it, preferably by nightfall. They refilled their water, had a bite to eat (this time the prince insisted Lilu have some food), and kept going. 

Lilu, we need to stop. If you push yourself any further, we’re all going to crash. Jess started to pester Lilu when she noticed that the trees were getting closer. Clearly they were slowing down. Lilu was running out of steam.

Just a few more miles! It won’t matter what happens if we get stuck out in the open all night. Not that the worst of the creatures frequented this area, but it wasn’t worth the risk. She gritted her teeth and pushed on, ignoring the worried glances of her passengers.

Another mile down. The trees were getting a little blurry. She blinked hard, trying to chase away the haze.

Atticus squeezed her shoulder. We can walk on foot, or spend the night in the tree.  You don’t have to keep carrying us.

The sun was starting to set. She shook her head. If she stopped now, she’d fall asleep. Two days with little more than a nap was taking its toll. But even if they carried her, they didn’t know the way to safety.

Finally it was there. A great big oak, looming dead ahead. There! The big oak! We’ll be safe there! She smiled, seeing the familiar tree gave her a slight thrill and she picked up speed.

We made it.

She felt a ripple in the air. Thank goodness, the protective circle is still up. She dropped below the treetops, a moment later, a little cottage came into view. It was two stories with a thatched roof. Good craftsmanship allowed it to stand the test of time, even without the help of constant upkeep. She welcomed the sight of the only place that ever felt like home. The ivy was trying to reclaim it, but it would keep them safe. 

She landed on the balcony to her old room it was the only one not shuttered tight. Thankfully, her father had made sure the balcony had plenty of landing room. Still, it was a tight fit up there. The board creaked, but held firm. She quickly produced a key from her pocket and unlocked the door. It protested at first, but with a firm shove