17. Tiamat

Chapter 17

Tiamat

The moment has arrived, and I stand at the threshold alongside my grandfather, watching as my father and brother begin the incantation to tear open the veil between our world and the realm of the Fae. The air crackles with anticipation, and a sense of foreboding settles over me like a heavy cloak.

Beside me, my grandfather stands tall, his expression grave yet resolute. We both know the risks involved in this journey, but we are determined to see it through to the end.

"Are you sure you don't want me with you?" My mother's voice breaks through my thoughts as she finishes braiding my hair, her eyes filled with concern. I smile softly and shake my head. "I'm sure, Mom. I need you here to watch over the triplets and my mates."

We share a moment of laughter, the tension of the moment momentarily eased by the familiar banter. Indeed, wrangling our mates can sometimes be more challenging than tending to our children.

As the elders finally succeed in tearing open the veil, revealing the otherworldly landscape of the Fairy realm, a mixture of awe and trepidation washes over me. The sight is both captivating and terrifying, like something out of a dream.

"Only trust what your dragon tells you is real," my father advises, his voice solemn yet filled with wisdom. With a nod, I take a deep breath and step through the portal alongside my grandfather.

We emerge into a vast wilderness unlike anything I have ever seen. Strange and twisted trees loom overhead, their gnarled branches casting eerie shadows across the forest floor. The air is thick with magic, a tangible presence that seems to pulse with life.

"Trust nothing, hatchling," my grandfather warns, his tone grave as he shifts his arms into his gauntlets, his talons clicking together ominously. I follow suit, summoning my force weapon to dance between the tips of my talons, ready for whatever dangers may lie ahead.

As we venture deeper into the Fairy realm, every shadow seems to hold a lurking threat, every sound a potential danger. I keep a watchful eye on my surroundings, relying on the instincts of my dragon to guide me through the unfamiliar terrain.

Suddenly, a rustling in the underbrush draws our attention, and we tense, readying ourselves for whatever may emerge. Out of the shadows steps a creature unlike anything I have ever seen, its form twisted and grotesque, its eyes glowing with malevolent intent.

Without hesitation, my grandfather and I spring into action, our talons at the ready as we confront the creature. It lunges forward with surprising speed, but we are prepared, meeting its attack with a ferocity of our own.

The battle is fierce, the creature's strength and agility matched only by our own determination to survive. With each strike of our talons, the creature grows weaker, its movements slowing as it struggles to keep pace with our relentless assault.

Finally, with a decisive blow, we bring the creature down, its twisted form collapsing to the forest floor in a heap. Breathing heavily, we stand victorious, the echoes of our battle ringing through the silent woods.

Navigating through the dense foliage of the Fairy realm, Nicodeamus and I remain vigilant, our senses attuned to the slightest hint of danger. With each step, the air crackles with an otherworldly energy, and I can't shake the feeling that unseen eyes are watching our every move.

Using the connection of our dragon bond. Nicodeamus conveys his suspicion that the Fae are likely aware of our presence because of our encounter with the creature we dispatched earlier. Glancing around, I notice other creatures lurking in the shadows, their presence equally unsettling. Yet, there's a cautiousness in their demeanor, as if they, too, are wary of us.

Pressing on, we're drawn towards the sound of running water, the gentle melody a stark contrast to the tension that hangs in the air. As we approach the source, I peer into the crystal-clear waters, only to find my reflection staring back at me, a mirror to my past and present.

Images of my childhood flash before my eyes, memories of simpler times tinged with the bittersweet ache of nostalgia. I see the first time I laid eyes on Draven, his presence igniting a spark within me I couldn't ignore. Then, the memory shifts to when Oberon first cast his spell, plunging me into a deep slumber.

My dragon's growl interrupts the flood of memories, pulling me back to the present. "They are testing us," my dragon's voice resonates within me, a warning that sends a shiver down my spine. With a heavy heart, I tear my gaze away from the water, knowing that we can't afford to linger in this place of memories.

Through our shared bond, I relay the warning to Nicodeamus, and he nods in understanding. Together, we continue our journey, our footsteps echoing through the silent forest as we tread cautiously forward. Every rustle of leaves, every whisper of wind, sets my nerves on edge, and I can't shake the feeling that we are being watched.

Suddenly, the sound of voices drifts through the air, drawing our attention. Hidden amongst the trees, we catch sight of a group of Fae, their features ethereal and otherworldly. They speak in hushed tones, their words unintelligible to our ears, but their intent clear.

With a silent exchange, Nicodeamus and I agree to approach cautiously, our talons at the ready. As we draw closer, the Fae turn to face us, their expressions a mixture of curiosity and wariness. I can feel the tension in the air, a palpable energy that crackles between us like lightning.

"We mean you no harm," I call out, my voice steady despite the unease that churns within me. "We seek an audience with your leaders to discuss matters of mutual interest."

The Fae exchange wary glances amongst themselves, their expressions unreadable. For a moment, it appears they might turn us away, but then one of them steps forward, their eyes alight with curiosity.

"You may follow us," they say, their voice melodic yet tinged with caution. "But know that you tread on dangerous ground. The realm of the Fae is not a place for the faint of heart."

With a nod of gratitude, Nicodeamus and I fall into step behind our guide, our hearts heavy with anticipation for what lies ahead. As we disappear into the depths of the forest, I can't help but wonder what trials await us, and whether we will emerge victorious or fall prey to the machinations of the Fae.

Navigating deeper into the heart of the hidden sanctuary, I can't help but marvel at the breathtaking beauty that surrounds us. The air is alive with the soft hum of magic, and the ethereal glow of the shimmering pools casts a mesmerizing spell over the landscape.

As we traverse the winding pathways, I draw upon the knowledge passed down to me by the Blood Queen and Gallus, recognizing these creatures as water fae. Through the unspoken connection of our dragon bond, I share this revelation with my grandfather, who acknowledges it with a subtle nod.

Our guide leads us to a clearing where a magnificent sight awaits us. Dozens of small pools of water, each more enchanting than the last, dot the landscape, their vibrant hues shimmering in the dappled sunlight. It's a scene straight out of a fairy tale, a hidden oasis nestled within the heart of the forest.

Amidst this natural splendor stands a figure that immediately captures my attention. He is unlike any fae I have ever seen, his presence commanding and regal. With silver-blue swallowtail- like wings that flutter gracefully behind him, he exudes an aura of power and authority.

As our eyes meet, I feel a jolt of recognition course through me. Memories flood my mind, supplying me with a name: Arlen Trazana, the king of the water fae. It's a name that carries weight and significance, and I can't help but feel a sense of awe in his presence.

With a graceful flourish, Arlen steps forward, his gaze piercing, yet filled with curiosity. He speaks, his voice melodic and soothing, like the gentle lull of a babbling brook. "Welcome, travelers," he says, his words carrying a weight of authority. "What brings you to our sanctuary?"

Summoning my courage, I step forward to address him, my voice steady despite the nerves that churn within me. "We seek an audience with you, King Arlen," I say, my words echoing through the tranquil clearing. "We come with a request, one that we hope you will consider with an open heart."

Arlen's expression remains impassive as he listens to my words, his piercing gaze studying me intently. I can sense the weight of his scrutiny, the silent assessment of our intentions. Yet there's a glimmer of curiosity in his eyes, a spark of interest that gives me hope.

"We come seeking your aid in our quest to free our people from Oberon's machinations," I continue, my voice filled with determination. "The shifters have long been enslaved by his influence, and we seek to put an end to his control."

For a long moment, Arlen is silent, his gaze locked with mine as he considers my words. Then, with a subtle nod, he gestures for us to follow him deeper into the sanctuary. "Come," he says, his voice tinged with a hint of intrigue. "Let us discuss this matter further."

As we follow Arlen through the tranquil glade, I can't help but feel a sense of hope stirring within me. Perhaps, with the aid of the water fae, we may yet free our people from Oberon's clutches. And as we disappear into the heart of the sanctuary, I steel myself for the challenges that lie ahead, knowing that our fate hangs in the balance.

As Arlen leads us through the tranquil grove, his wings fluttering gracefully behind him, I can't help but sense a heaviness in his demeanor. His words carry a tinge of regret, and I wonder what burdens weigh upon his heart.

Finally, we arrive at what appears to be his private quarters, a serene oasis nestled within the heart of the sanctuary. Arlen turns to face us, his hands folded before him as his robes sway gently in the breeze. There's a solemnity in his gaze as he speaks, his voice tinged with regret.

"We needed a protector," he begins, his words heavy with meaning. "Someone strong enough to defeat the Drow." His admission hangs in the air, and I can't help but feel a pang of sympathy for the weight of responsibility he carries. But then his gaze shifts to me, and I feel a surge of tension crackling in the air between us. His words catch me off guard, and I find myself locking eyes with him, my gaze unwavering.

"I know you are our Blood Queen Doppelg?nger," he says, his voice soft yet tinged with awe. "But you turned out more powerful than she ever was."

His words hang in the air, heavy with implications, and I feel a chill run down my spine. There's a depth to his gaze that speaks volumes, a silent acknowledgment of the power that courses through my veins.

But then his tone shifts, and a note of apprehension creeps into his voice. "That's only part of the problem," I say, my voice steady despite the turmoil roiling within me. "Do you know what was done to me?"

As I speak, I allow the full extent of my power to manifest, my eyes darkening as the pulsing blue energy courses through my pupils. Arlen takes a step back, his expression shifting from curiosity to fear in an instant.

For the first time, I see a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes, a hint of vulnerability that belies his regal facade. And as I stand before him, I can't help but feel a surge of pride coursing through me.

But beneath it all, there's a sense of unease, a nagging doubt that lingers in the back of my mind. For even as I confront Arlen, I know our journey is far from over, and the challenges that lie ahead are more daunting than ever.

I see a glow manifest behind him as if he's gathering power in his hands. As he moves his arm forward, I react faster than he does. My force weapon leaves the palm of my hand, striking his body center mass. Within seconds, all that is left of him is a pile of ash. Glancing over at my Grandfather he smiles. "We may have to fight our way out of here hatchling." His tone is playful, reminding me of the days of my youth when he was teaching me to hunt.

"Game on Grandpa, let's go!" I wink at him as we charge out of the hidden room into the wilderness.