15. Zephyr

15

ZEPHYR

T he days have been busy since Selena, and I accepted our bond. The palace that once echoed with my solitude now bustles with activity. Humans and demons alike seek our help, drawn by the stories of our partnership. The camaraderie we've fostered extends beyond just the two of us. Human and demon friends gather around us, offering their support and guidance. Selena's unwavering support and fierce loyalty have transformed my existence.

Her presence by my side has become a source of strength, grounding me in a reality where I am no longer just a demon in exile but a protector, leader, and friend.

As we walk along the riverbank, I watch as she admires the beauty of the river as she gathers flowers and frolics with the animals who are not afraid to approach her. I admire how she finds beauty in the most unusual and darkest places. I am a testimony to that.

After a while, we stroll further down the riverbank to our favorite spot, the green meadow. The warm sunlight dances across Selena's face as she lays beside me in our meadow. Her auburn hair catches the light, creating a halo effect that takes my breath away. This is what I want, my mate, companion, forever.

"What's on your mind, Zephyr?" Selena props herself up on an elbow, her keen eyes searching my face. "You're quieter than usual and you keep looking at me."

"Well, remember when I first explained to you about demon culture and mating customs?" I ask as I turn my palm upwards, controlling the wind to collect the flower petals and make them dance in the open air. She looks on with wonder in her eyes and a smile on her face.

"I remember it well, Zephyr. It was just like this, a beautiful display," she says.

"Well, showing affection goes beyond just showing my customs. I want to share in yours as well. And I've been learning more about human customs. There's one tradition that intrigues me. Marriage."

Her eyes widen slightly, but she remains silent, waiting.

"I want to honor your heritage too. Marry me." I stare at her intently as my eyes shimmer to the color of amethyst.

Selena finally says, her voice thick with emotion. "Of course, I'll marry you." Selena laughs and the sound is music to my ears. She leans in, pressing her forehead against mine. "You continue to surprise me, Zephyr."

"Good," I growl playfully, pulling her close. "I'd hate to become predictable in my old age."

She laughs and it soothes me. I can't wait to hear that lullaby forever.

After leaving the meadow, Selena wastes no time in explaining the next steps of the human custom, marriage. My understanding of human marriage is that a ceremony is required to display and celebrate the union between two people. Selena understands this of course better than me because she wastes no time preparing for a ceremonial event.

I stand on the balcony behind Selena, overlooking the sprawling landscape below. The wind sweeps around us, carrying the scent of pine and wildflowers. I wrap my arms around her.

"You ready for this?" My breath is heavy against her ear.

She leans back into my embrace cupping my hands in hers. "As ready as I'll ever be. But are you sure about inviting humans and demons?"

"It's the only way, Selena," I continue to explain, "We need to show the humans we're not a threat and that humans and demons can coexist in peace."

She nods against my chest, but I can sense the excitement. "And the demon traditions? You think they'll understand?" She looks up at me with her big brown eyes.

I chuckle, the sound rumbling through my chest. "They might not understand, but they'll see we're trying. That's what matters."

She turns into my arms, meeting my gaze. My eyes swirl with shades of blue and green, reflecting her nervousness. She sighs. "What if they don't come?"

"Then we'll keep trying. This isn't just about us anymore. You have shown me that," I say as I continue. "Our union is more than just a marriage - it's a symbol of what could be. A future where demons and humans coexist, maybe even thrive together.

"You're right. So, how are we going to combine our traditions?" she asks, trying to focus on the task at hand.

I grin, all four of my hands moving to cup her face. "Well, in demon tradition, after mating, we seal the bond with a blood oath."

She raises an eyebrow. "That might be a bit much for the humans."

"Probably," I say. "It's more of a sharing of our essences than anything."

"That... could work," she muses. "We could explain it as a symbol of our lives intertwining."

I nod, my expression softening. "And for the human side?"

"Vows," she says without hesitation. "Promises we make to each other, in front of witnesses. It's important in many human cultures. And a ring to seal the vow along with a kiss."

"Hmm, I like that." A low growl rumbles from my chest. My demon spirit seems to like this as well. My eyes shade to a red hue with hints of gold as my voice is low and intimate. "What would you promise me, little one?"

I can see the heat rising to her cheeks. "You'll have to wait and see, demon."

I laugh, the sound echoing across the mountain. "Fair enough. Now, about those invitations..."

We spend the rest of the afternoon drafting messages to the nearby human settlements. Each word is carefully chosen, emphasizing peace and unity. It's a delicate balance, extending an olive branch without seeming weak or threatening.

As the sun begins to set, we retire to our chambers. Lying next to her, I can't help but wonder how many will actually show up. Will they see this for what it is - a chance at a new beginning? Or will fear keep them away? I try to control my anxiety for Selena's sake. She deserves to have a proper extension to her human world. In two days, we will seal our union and hopefully improve the demon-human relationship within the land.

Two days go by in a flash. The ceremony is finally here and met with great excitement and surprise at how many humans and demons are arriving to attend our union.

The wind carries the scent of blooming flowers as I stand before our gathered guests. Selena's hand trembles slightly in mine, her eyes shining with joy. I give her hand a reassuring squeeze.

"Friends," I begin, my voice ringing out like a gentle breeze to reach even the farthest corners of the gathering. "We stand here today to witness the union of two worlds, two hearts-"

A commotion at the edge of the courtyard cuts me off. My head snaps up, nostrils flaring as I catch a familiar scent. Selena tenses beside me.

"No," she whispers, "it can't be."

But it is. Her tribe emerges from the forest, weapons glinting in the dappled sunlight. Their faces are hard, eyes cold with determination and fear.

"Step away from the demon, Selena!" the elder's voice booms across the courtyard. "We've come to save you from this madness."

Gasps and murmurs ripple through our guests. Some reach for weapons, others shrink back in fear. The delicate peace we've worked so hard to build teeters on the edge of shattering.

Selena's grip on my hand tightens. She steps forward, brown eyes blazing with a fire I've come to love.

"There's nothing to save me from," she calls out, her voice steady and strong. "This is my choice. My happiness."

I feel a swell of pride, but the growl of anger from the approaching tribesmen quickly tempers it. They fan out, weapons ready, creating a half-circle of hostility.

"You're bewitched," one of them spits. "We'll free you from his spell, even if we have to cut him down to do it."

The air crackles with tension. I can feel my demon instincts rising, urging me to protect what's mine. But I force them down. Violence now would undo everything we have been working for.

"Please," I say, keeping my voice calm despite the rage building inside me. "We mean no harm. This union is one of love and acceptance, not trickery."

"Silence, demon!" The elder raises his staff. "We'll hear no more of your lies."

I clench my fists tight, almost drawing blood to calm my demon's rising anger. My demon stirs as the elder they call Elder Thorne steps forward. My eyes turn to a blood red as my demon tries to surface. "I warn you to stay where you are. I mean no harm but will protect what is mine if I need to."