The Dragon's Kiss

Chapter 10 - Forgiveness

Ashley's eyes widened, and she almost choked on her own spit. She coughed, as Migara hurried to rub her back.

"You okay, amica?" 

"Yes," she squeaked out, clearing her throat. 

Erik's eyes narrowed further, and he stepped closer to them.

"Is everything okay, Dea? Did I say something that bothered you?"

Ashley frowned at him, and then glanced at Migara.

"Everything's fine," Migara answered for her, stepping between them. "She is no mood for company. So why don't you walk off?"

He let out a chuckle. 

"My dearest Migara," he said, lowering his hands to his sides. "I'm sure the Daughter of Light does not require a protector by her side at all times. I'm sure she can fend, and talk, for herself."

"I'm not her protector, but--"

"You're right, Erik," Ashley spoke up, interrupting her. She stepped forward, looking Erik in the eye. "I can talk for myself. So what do you want to know?"

Migara frowned, but remained silent.

"Are you really who they're saying you are? Are you the Daughter of Light?" he asked.

"What do you think?" she asked, stepping even closer to him.

Erik's eyebrows shot up slightly, as he stared down at her.

"I think you're a lying wretch," he spat, his gaze full of distaste.

Ashley let out a chuckle, biting her lip.

"And I think you're a coward," she retorted.

"What?" he snapped, his nostrils flaring in anger. "How dare you--"

"Daring, exactly. That's what I am," she cut him off. "Unlike you, I am brave. And I'm someone who speaks her mind, no matter who's present. I do not cower at the sight of one stronger than myself."

"What are you talking about?" he growled, glaring at her.

"Haco Vindic," she stated, her eyes twinkling with pride. "The one you're so afraid of, that you couldn't even speak in front of him. I held a blade to his chest, so be careful how you speak to me. I will not stand here and tolerate the bullshit you throw at me, because I'm not a coward like you."

Erik clenched his jaw, his hand flying to his belt. But before he had the chance to draw his sword, the sound of claps befell his ear. All three of them looked to the side, and whilst Ashley frowned in confusion, a look of utter delight took over Migara's face.

"Rieker," she whispered, gaping at him.

"What a lovely reply," he complimented, a cheeky grin on his face. He walked over to them, his gaze stuck on Ashley. "Excellentia Vestra!" He gently took her hand, and bent down to kiss it. "It's my highest pleasure to finally meet you."

Ashley blinked at him, feeling heat rise up her cheeks. It was the first time a man had kissed her hand like that, and a handsome one at that. He was almost as tall as Haco, with silver-grey eyes and tanned skin, his dark, curly hair gently falling over his forehead. 

"Rieker," Migara squealed, grabbing his arm and turning him to herself. She threw her arms around his neck and he pulled her into a hug, lifting her off the ground. 

"I missed you too, Rufus," he chuckled, before putting her back down. He ruffled Migara's hair, before she slapped his hand away. 

"Where were you?" she asked, grabbing the collars of his conves. "We were so worried for you, everyone said you had fallen prey to the dracones or the lycans. I could feel you were alive, but I didn't know what to think anymore," she cried, a few tears leaving her eyes.

"Hey, I'm fine," Rieker reassured, pulling her to his chest again. "I can take care of myself, Rufus. You know that. I always return to you."

Ashley cleared her throat, gaining their attention.

"Who are you?"

"I'm Rieker, domina. Migara's brother."

"Oh." 

Now that she paid more attention, the resemblance was obvious. They practically had the same eyes, similar lips, and remarkably stunning hair, coiled to perfection with a captivating lustre. What a beautiful pair of siblings, she thought. How gorgeous must their parents be?

"So you have returned," Erik said, a shadow crossing over his face. He did not seem too happy to see him. 

"I have," Rieker replied, pulling away from Migara and stepping towards him. "I'm sure you're delighted to see me."

"Of course," Erik replied, a sarcastic smile on his face. "I am ecstatic to see you."

"Likewise, mate," Rieker tapped his shoulder. "Now, why don't you leave the Goddess alone? Before I send a little faery to Belina and she speaks to you herself?"

Erik's jaw clenched again, and he took a step back. He gave a sharp nod, and shot Ashley a look, before wordlessly walking away. She heaved a sigh of relief, rolling her eyes.

"What's his problem with me?" she muttered, her eyebrows furrowing.

"Do not worry about him, domina. He won't bother you while I'm around," Rieker reassured, smiling at her.

"What does domina mean?" she asked, looking towards Migara.

"It's just a term of respect," she explained. "Like madam, or lady."

"What about Dea? And that term you said, excellen... something..."

"Excellentia Vestra," Rieker corrected. "Your Excellency."

"And Dea means Goddess."

Ashley let out a huff. "Can't people just call me by my name?" 

"Sure, domina. If that's what you prefer. What is your name, again?"

"Ash. Call me Ash."

- - - -

"So... Haco kidnapped you?" Rieker asked, frowning. 

"Mhm."

"Why didn't he tell me that? He said you followed him into the Transporter."

Ashley pursed her lips. "Well, that's one way of putting it," she muttered. "I did technically follow him to the Transporter, but he was the one who dragged me in."

"Oh, that sounds fair. I wouldn't let such a gorgeous girl walk away from me either," he replied, winking at her.

Ashley let out a chuckle. "Are you always that charming, or is it just around me?"

"He's always like this," Migara sighed, rolling her eyes. "If you two are done flattering each other, maybe we should return to Haco. He must be waiting."

"I could never be done with this beauty," he smirked, before glancing at Migara. "But you are right. We should head back before it's dark. Shall we, Ash?" He offered her his hand. Ashley smiled, placing hers in his. 

"Of course."

Migara rolled her eyes again, shaking her head. "Let's go."

The three of them walked back to the gravel path, and headed up, with Migara leading the way and Rieker and Ashley following close behind.

"How is your realm? Is it as beautiful as you?"

"It's nothing compared to Lyrous," Ashley shrugged. "It's quite dull, actually."

"Oh," Rieker frowned. "That's a shame. A maiden like you doesn't belong anywhere near dullness. It's a good thing you came here, and blessed us with your presence. My eyes feel rested now."

Ashley laughed, shaking her head at him. "That was smooth. You really are something else."

"I know, right?" He grinned.

She smiled back at him, nodding.

"What's going on here?" 

They realized they had already reached the cottage, and Haco was staring at their connected hands with narrowed eyes. Ashley quickly pulled hers out of Rieker's grip, her eyes widening slightly. She felt like she had been caught sneaking out of the house, to attend a wild, rave party, and she didn't know why.

"Nothing at all, sõda," Rieker said cheerfully, walking up to him. "We all are just returning to you."

Haco stared at Ashley for a moment, before shifting his gaze to Rieker. "I'm just glad you're back, brother." He smiled.

"I'm glad to be back to you guys. I really missed you out there," he replied. He leaned in to Haco's ear. "I missed you even more than I missed my sister. That's why you're the first one I came to meet after returning. Don't tell her that, though," he whispered.

"You know you whisper really loudly, you fox," Migara said, glaring at him.

Rieker's eyes widened, and he pursed his lips, stepping away from Haco. "I didn't mean that, Rufus. You know I love the most in this world."

"I'll deal with you later," Migara stated in a low, dangerous voice, before turning to Haco. "You tell me when we're telling our people the truth about her. Erik is getting suspicious, and if he utters a word to anyone, you know how they'll all react," she warned.

"I know," Haco agreed, nodding. "Don't worry. I'll send Belina a message to make a public announcement as soon as possible. I went to see her today. She said she'll come in whenever I'm ready."

"Whenever you're ready?" Rieker frowned. "What has this got to do with you?"

"I have to brief Ashley on what to say in front of them. They'll expect her to speak as well."

"What? Why?" Ashley asked, her eyebrows furrowing. "I don't want to address your people."

"Our people," Haco corrected, stepping closer to her. "Until you're here, you're one of us now, Ash."

Ashley nodded, tucking her hair behind her ear as she lowered her gaze.

"We start training tomorrow. I think you should  get some rest now."

"Or, I could take you for a ride," Rieker suggested, grinning at her.

Ashley held back her smile. "On what?"

"Breda, my stunning alata."

"Alata?" 

"It's an animal that flies," Haco said. "She won't go. She doesn't like heights."

Ashley's eyes narrowed. "Actually, I'd love to go," she said.

"No, you're not going," said Haco, before Rieker had the chance to reply.

"Is there a problem?" Rieker asked, raising his eyebrows at him.

"Yes, there is."

"And what is that?" Ashley asked, crossing her arms over her chest. "You know you don't own me."

"Yeah, I'm aware. But I promised to protect you, and you're afraid of heights. And alatas are dangerous creatures, I'm not letting you go on one alone. If you want, I'll take you tomorrow, but myself."

Ashley opened her mouth to object, but she was interrupted by Rieker's laugh.

"You're gonna take her?" he smirked. "Sure, alright. Rufus and I will take our leave then, sõda."

Migara clicked her tongue. "Stop calling me that," she scowled, slapping his arm. He shrugged, a cheeky smile on his face.

"Great. See you guys tomorrow. Meet me at the foot of Hazemont when the first rays of the Sun shine upon Dinwitch. I'll need you guys to help me train her." Haco glanced at Migara.

"Me too?" Rieker asked, his eyebrows shot up in surprise.

"Of course. You're the best shot out of us three."

"Finally you admitted." Rieker smiled proudly. "We'll be there."

"Gratia." Haco gave him a nod.

"Valeous, Ashley," Rieker said, taking her hand and kissing it again. He leaned in closer to her. "I'll take you for that ride some other day," he whispered.

Ashley chuckled, nodding. "I'll be waiting." She smiled after he pulled away.

"Let's go, Ashley." Haco stepped forward and took her wrist, pulling her away from him. "You guys should go too. See you tomorrow." He turned around and walked into the cottage, dragging her along.

"What does valeous--"

"It means good bye," Haco said before she could complete. He let go of her hand and closed the door behind him.

"Thought so." She smiled, lowering her gaze.

Haco glanced at her, walking over to the stone table. "You look happy," he pointed out.

"Yeah, I'm in a better mood," she nodded, "thanks to Migara."

"And Rieker."

"Well, yeah. Kinda." She shrugged, sitting down on the bed. "You have good friends."

Haco hummed in response, dipping the quill into a flask of black liquid, before he started to write something on the paper.

"What are you doing?" 

"Writing to Belina. To come forth as soon as she can."

"How will you send that to her? You guys have a mailman?"

"We convey messages using faeries, usually. Except when it's extremely confidential. Then people use their own animals."

"So you'll send this through a faery, or with Valak?"

"With Valak."

"Why?"

"Because I can't have anyone else find out about this before Belina wants. Faeries tend to talk," he explained. He placed the quill down and folded the paper, before walking out of the cottage. Ashley heard him whistle for Valak, and a few moments later, he returned inside. 

"How will Valak cross the grove of trees before the Temple? What if a lycan attacks him?"

"Valak is a tough creature, and he fights a lot like them, like the lycans. They know not to attack stripes. Especially not the one that belongs to me." There was a smugness to his tone, one she did not miss.

"So even the lycans know you?" 

"Of course," Haco scoffed, shrugging off his jacket and folding it into a neat square. He placed it down in the corner of the room, followed by his belt, and his sword.

"So what? You're like a celebrity around here?" 

He frowned at her, his eyes narrowed slightly. "Depends on what 'celebrity' means."

"A famous person, someone people usually look up to, unless they're stuck in some kind of a scandal."

Haco let out a chuckle, before walking over to her. She looked up at him, leaning slightly backwards as he towered over her.

"I've been stuck in a scandal for most of my life, Ash," he said softly, his eyes dim. "But that's gonna change now. Because you're here." He smiled at her, staring at her intently.

"Why do you... why do you look at me like that?" Ashley asked, standing up. She expected him to step back to not invade her personal space, but he remained rooted to his spot, making her heart thump. 

"Like what?" Haco whispered, his breath fanning against her face.

"Like..." she trailed off, gulping. "Like I'm some kind of a messiah, like I'm supposed to pull you out of some darkness you have locked yourself in. I'm not the Daughter of Light, Haco. I'm not who you think I am. I'm not someone noble and pure-hearted. I'm just me."

"And that's enough," he said, ever so softly, his voice barely reached her ears. She frowned, letting out a shaky breath, as he gently held onto her arms. Haco licked his lips, his mouth parting as he took in a deep breath. "Ashley..." Her name rolled off his tongue like a rhythmic poem. "I am counting on you. We all are. And I know we mean nothing to you, you have no reason to help us, but I want you to know this: my people have waited for you far too long. And not because they think you're her, but because you're the only one who has managed to rekindle their hope. Rekindle my hope."

Ashley's gaze dropped to his lips, before it returned to his crystal blue eyes. Ones that swirled with conviction, faith, and if she was not losing her mind, desire. 

She gulped, losing herself in them, her breath hitching, her heart raging in her chest.

"Do you understand me, Ash?" he asked, his voice huskier as he said her name. 

She blinked, finding it impossible to tear her gaze away.

So she whispered the only word that came to her mind, "Yes."

Haco nodded, his eyes lighting up slightly. "Gratia, meum miraculum."

"Wh-what?"

Haco shook his head. "I am grateful to you."

She was aware he said something else too, but her thumping heart forbade her to think further. 

"I--I... I want to go to sleep."

"Of course," Haco replied, stepping away from her. He let go of her arms, and she felt as if a wave of cold air hit her. She hugged herself, lowering her gaze.

What is happening to me? Why do I feel so agitated whenever I'm close to him?  she wondered.

"What?" His voice snapped her out of the thought, and she glanced at him with wide eyes.

"What?"

"Did you say something?"

"No. Did you hear something?"

"I thought I did. I must be going crazy." He let out a chuckle.

She offered him a sheepish smile.

"You should sleep now. Good night, Ashley. Sleep well."

He turned away from her, and had just taken a step when she stopped him.

"Haco," she said, a small frown on her face. "Why didn't you let me go with Rieker?"

Haco's posture stiffened slightly, before he turned back to her.

"I... I don't know," he replied, looking her in the eye. "I didn't feel good about it." He shrugged.

"Why not?" Ashley asked. "Aren't you friends? Don't you trust him?"

"I trust him with my life, Ashley," Haco replied. "But not with yours." He turned around again, but she was not done talking.

"Why not?" she asked again.

He sighed, this time not bothering to glance at her. "I let you go with Migara today, because I don't want you to feel suffocated or caged. But when it comes to you, I don't trust anyone but myself."

And just like that, her heart was sent into a frenzy again.

- - - - 

"What's with Ashley and Haco? Does he like her or something?" Rieker asked, turning on his side to look at Migara.

"I don't know," she replied, lying down on her pillow. She turned to him as well. "He seems a little possessive of her, but I'm not sure why. Maybe he just wants to protect her from distractions."

"Distractions?" Rieker snorted. "How am I one?"

"You were flattering her like a Goddess. I think you forget she isn't one."

"I was just being honest, Mig. You know I like to point out the good things about people," he replied.

Migara scoffed. "Yeah, right. By 'people', you mean women, or girls, or if you're bored, even female animals, right?"

He scrunched up his nose. "Not animals. Please. Not girls either. Just grown, consenting women."

"She's a girl too," Migara pointed out. "I wouldn't call her a woman yet. She's not as old as us, you know that right? Time works differently in her realm."

"Whatever." Rieker rolled his eyes. "She's a fully grown girl. Did you see how ravishing she looked in your clothes? She's so... different."

"Yeah, she is. But I thought you'd find her 'dull'. Her hair lacks a glow, and so do her eyes."

"That's what makes her special, Rufus. She's beautifully simple."

Migara sighed. "Whatever flies your alata." She lay on her back again, closing her eyes. "I missed you, Rie," she said softly, a smile playing on her lips.

"I miss you too, Mig. Good night."

"Good night."

Rieker closed his eyes and drifted off, into the first peaceful slumber he had had in months. He could finally close his eyes, and not worry about being attacked by a lycan, hunted by a dracone, or accidentally being crushed by a petram. He was home now, and after a long and exhausting endeavor, he could finally let down his guard again.

- - - - 

Ashley lay still, listening to Haco's soft snores. She was in his bed, whilst he slept on the floor, in the farther corner of the room. He had his back towards her, and she quietly stared at the way his body moved every time he breathed. The room was warm, thanks to the flames dancing in the fireplace, but Ashley still hugged the soft blanket close to her chest. She was trying to calm her pacing heart, that would not stop knocking against her ribs since the moment Haco said those words. Those words that echoed in her mind over and over again, like a mantra imprinted into her memory.  

When it comes to you, I don't trust anyone but myself.

Why? 

That was her question. Why did he not trust anyone else, when it was a question of her safety? Why was he doing everything he could to make her comfortable? Why was he sleeping on the floor of his own house, and allowing her to sleep in his warm bed?

She sat up, running a hand through her hair. 

Was she reading too much into the situation? Or there really was something in his eyes every time he looked at her? Did he desire her, or were those her own wishes, that her mind was twisting into his? She did not know anymore. She knew nothing anymore.

Ashley stood up and walked to the door, pushing it open. The chilly night breeze slapped her in the face at once, making her close her eyes and hug herself. She still stepped out, gently closing the door behind her, not wanting Haco to get any more uncomfortable than he already was. She walked around the cottage, and stood on the edge of the small hill, looking down at the pond. The water was no longer steaming hot, and it reflected and glimmered under the gentle, blue moonlight. 

She closed her eyes, taking a deep breath, as her hair danced around her with the wind. 

What had her life turned into? Two days ago, she was sleeping in the safety of her home, snuggled up in her gothic bed, beside a poster of Heath Ledger from The Dark Knight, and another one of Billie Eilish from one of her music videos. Werewolves and dragons were mythical creatures turned into protagonists of teen romance novels, and magic was just an illusion painted by those who benefited from the fares paid for children's shows. When did everything change so drastically?

And why did it all feel so... real? Now that she though about it, it took her hardly any time to accept it. Any sane human being would spend months in denial, thinking they were in a coma or under the influence of drugs. So why was she standing there, having completely accepted the new world she was introduced to, and that too so calmly? Why did all of it feel so eerily natural?

"Divignus! You scared me."

Haco took her arm and turned her around, his voice breaking her chain of thoughts. She blinked up at him, slightly disarrayed. 

"I thought you had run away, or you're in some kind of danger," he whispered, his eyebrows furrowed together in concern. "What are you doing out here, Ashley?"

She lowered her gaze, sighing. "Just needed some air."

He gently cupped her cheek, sending a shiver through her. She looked up at him, her eyes slightly wide with nervousness. 

"Is everything okay?" Haco asked softly, his thumb gently caressing her cheek. 

"Apart from the fact that you kidnapped me, yes," she replied carefully.

He rolled his eyes, withdrawing his hand. "When can we get past that?"

"When I'm back home, and that too, if you're lucky."

Haco let out a small chuckle. "Let me rephrase that. What can I do to get your forgiveness?"

Ashley scoffed. "You can get me back home." She walked around him, towards the cottage, but he caught hold of her wrist. She halted, feeling her heart flutter again, as she turned to him. 

"There must be something else. I'll do anything you say," he said.

Ashley tilted her head to the side. "Why are you so desperate for it? What's the reason you want it so badly, that you'd be willing to do anything for it?"

Haco seemed slightly taken aback by her question, his grip on her wrist loosening slightly. "I want us to... be friends," he said, looking away from her, "and we can't if you don't forgive me for my mistake."

"Hmm, you also held a sword to my neck," she commented casually.

"Forgive me for that too. But you held one to my chest first."

"I had the right to. You kidnapped me."

"I did too. I was defending myself."

Ashley's eyes narrowed. "You also tied me up."

"Okay, you can do the same to me if it's gonna make you feel better."

Her cheeks tinged pink, and she looked down, pulling her hand out of his grip. Does he know how that sounded? Do those kinks exist here?

Haco cleared his throat, gaining her attention. He raised his eyebrows at her, maintaining a blank face, but Ashley noticed a slight glint of amusement in his eyes. Or, she was once again, reading too much into the situation.

"Not interested in doing that," she stated, pursing her lips.

"Then? What's it gonna be?" he asked, stepping closer to her. "How do I make it up to you?"

Ashley blinked up at him, before an idea popped into her mind.

"How about, you give me your word, that you're gonna do anything I say?"

"That's what I--"

"No, you don't get it." She shook her head. "I can use this promise anytime. And whatever I tell you to do, you'll have to do it. No questions asked, no delays. It could be anything at all."

Haco frowned, silently thinking over it over a moment. He then slowly nodded. "Alright. But I have a condition. You can't ask me to kill anyone."

"Deal." Ashley smiled. "Do I have your word?"

"You have my word."

"You're forgiven." She grinned at him, before turning around and making her way back to the cottage.

- - - - - -

Mini Dictionary (Forsitan parvum lexicon):

Sõda - Friend/Companion/Comrade.

Gratia - Thank you.

Valeous - Good-bye.

Dea - Goddess

Excellentia Vestra - Your Excellency

Alata - A winged animal with the body of an Earth reindeer, with antlers strong enough to lift five men. The antlers also glow in the dark, making them perfect for journeys undertook at night.

Petrams - Giants made of earth and stone. Typically lazy creatures, can and will crush anything in their way, 'accidentally'.

Keep an eye out for more!