Chapter 37

Beyond the imposing walls of Voreios, the earth lay perpetually frozen, a barren expanse where only frostcherry shrubs and fire oaks dared to take root. As far as the eye could see, the landscape was cloaked in a dense forest, a vast sea of red that contrasted sharply against the pristine white of the snow-covered world.

Eryx ventured along the outermost boundaries of Voreios, his footsteps leaving impressions in the slushy mixture of snow and mud that clung stubbornly to the ground. Towering watchtowers loomed overhead, their silhouettes casting long shadows over the desolate landscape. Barbed wire fences stretched into the distance, marking the limits of the fortress city with grim finality.

The previous night's rainfall had left its mark, coating Eryx's boots and the hem of his cloak with a slick layer of moisture. As he trudged through the mire, his senses were assailed by the earthy scent of wet soil mingling with the crisp bite of frost in the air.

Eryx's eyes swept across the makeshift camps nestled just a few meters away, where weary soldiers gathered around crackling campfires, seeking respite before the impending shift change. Nearby, dedicated nurses moved with purpose, tending to the fatigue and injuries of their comrades with skill and compassion. Meanwhile, the wives who had elected to share their husbands' lives beyond the fortress walls carried on with their daily routines, their presence a comforting reminder of home amidst the harsh realities of military life.

As Eryx surveyed his countrymen, the piercing blast of the guard's horn shattered the calm of the camp below. Like a siren, the sound cut through the air, jolting every soldier to attention. Eryx's eyes narrowed, his senses heightened as he instinctively tensed, a surge of adrenaline coursing through his veins.

Drawing in a deep breath, Eryx took in the scent of the air, his keen senses instantly alert to the subtle nuances of the environment. And then, as if on cue, he knew. His heart quickened, his mind racing to piece together the puzzle.

"Your grace!" the guard's voice rang out from the watchtower. "Elven hounds! Just past the stream!"

Elven hounds? Eryx's brow furrowed in concern. They rarely ventured this close to the boundaries of Voreios. Something must have compelled them to stray so near to the camp, and Eryx's instincts told him that trouble loomed on the horizon. With a determined set to his jaw, he braced himself for the impending challenge.

As Eryx prepared to shift into his wolf form, he swiftly discarded his cloak, his movements fluid and practiced. His keen eyes caught sight of Sven and Zeya marching out of the gates, their determined strides mirrored by the soldiers falling in line behind them, all heading towards the barbed wire gates that marked the edge of their territory.

"What do you think this is about?" Zeya inquired, her hands deftly pulling her hair out of its previously restrained bun. "Hounds? When was the last time we saw them?"

"Something must have lured them in," Eryx replied with a shake of his head, his expression grave. "Sven, take your men to the west. Zeya, watch my back."

"Yes," the two comrades affirmed in unison, their resolve evident as they stepped back, making way for Eryx to undergo his transformation.

With a deep breath, Eryx surrendered to his instincts, allowing his wolf nature to emerge. His connection to his lupine side had always been strong, but since meeting Meera, it felt as though his wolf was constantly lurking just beneath the surface, eager to be unleashed at a moment's notice.

As the transformation began, Eryx felt the familiar ache and pressure building in his bones, his skin tingling as it thickened and his body contorted. With a fierce snarl, he fell to all fours, his senses sharpening as his wolf form emerged. His sight became keener, his sense of smell and hearing heightened to an almost supernatural level.

With his transformation complete, Eryx's wolf instincts surged to the forefront, driving him forward with purpose. Alongside Sven and Zeya, he bounded out of the Voreian boundaries and into the Northpass, his powerful paws propelling him over the frozen ground with effortless grace.

The scent of red oak permeated the air, its spicy aroma mingling with the crisp bite of the winter wind. Dark shadows danced at the edges of Eryx's vision, their whispers harmonizing with the haunting melody of the wind and the mournful song of the nearby stream.

Lowering his snout to the ground, Eryx inhaled deeply, his sensitive nose detecting the faintest traces of the elven hounds' scent. The earthy aroma of the soil mingled with the unmistakable musk of the hounds, guiding him like a trail of breadcrumbs through the wilderness.

Raising his head, Eryx followed the scent with unwavering determination, his senses attuned to every subtle shift in the wind. With each stride, he drew closer to the source of the scent. But as he neared, a new scent tickled his nose. Eryx stilled. He looked up and peered into the thick frost cherry shrubs.

What is it? Zeya asked.

Stay alert, Eryx's eyes scanned the woods. The elves are with their hounds.

What? Zeya's questioned, her concern growing.

Something's wrong, Eryx took a small step forward. They're too far out from their territories.

Guarding Eryx's back, Zeya silently directed the soldiers to proceed, her keen eyes scanning their surroundings for any signs of danger. With practiced precision, the men lowered their spears and used their shields to form a protective barrier as they advanced, parting the frostcherry shrubs with their long wooden spears.

"Nothing here, Eryx," Zeya reported quietly as one of the soldiers looked back and shook his head.

"Onward," Eryx commanded, his voice steady and resolute, when suddenly a rustling sound emanated from the shrubs to his right.

With cautious steps, Eryx turned towards the source of the noise, his senses on high alert as the scent of the elves and their hounds grew stronger. He prepared to confront whatever lurked within the underbrush, his muscles coiled like springs as he readied himself to pounce.

As another sound echoed from the shrubs, Eryx let out a low growl, his instincts urging him forward. With a swift movement, he lunged towards the shadowy figure that emerged, tackling it to the ground with a fierce determination.

"Eryx! Stop!" Zeya's panicked voice cut through the air as she caught sight of the young boy beneath Eryx's grasp.

Startled, Eryx recoiled, his eyes widening in horror as he took in the sight before him. The young boy, no more than nine or ten years old, trembled beneath the weight of the wolf, his small frame visibly shaken. His hands were tightly bound together by elf twine, and a green cloth gagged his mouth, stifling any cries for help. The boy's blue eyes shimmered with tears as he struggled against his restraints, desperation etched into every line of his face.

Behind him, hidden deep within the shrubs, two hound puppies whimpered softly in the cold, their cries barely audible over the rustle of the leaves. Their innocent eyes mirrored the fear and vulnerability of their human companion, their small bodies shivering as they huddled together for warmth.

One of the soldiers stepped forward and pulled the boy up to his feet. With a sense of urgency, he reached out and released the bindings that held the boy captive, his movements careful and deliberate as he sought to ease the child's fear and discomfort.

"He's Voreian, your grace," the soldier declared. "This is Leto's son."

What the hell is he doing out here? Eryx looked toward Zeya. Something's wrong. This seems like a distraction. This boy and those puppies didn't create the scent together.

What else could it be? Zeya asked. Maybe they came for him but left in a hurry when we arrived?

No, Eryx looked around once more. They're still around.

And as if on cue, the tall, pale figures descended from the trees with an ethereal grace, their movements as silent and swift as shadows in the night. Their long strands of silver hair cascaded down their backs like shimmering veils, catching the faint light and lending them an otherworldly glow as they landed gracefully on the ground, surrounding Eryx, Zeya, and their men.

In their presence, an eerie silence fell over the clearing, broken only by the soft rustle of leaves and the faint whispers of the wind. The air seemed to crackle with tension as the strangers regarded Eryx and his companions, their piercing gazes betraying hints of hostility.

For a moment, time seemed to stand still as the two groups faced each other in the forest, the air thick with unspoken words and unspoken threats. Then, with a subtle nod from their leader, the elves advanced, their movements fluid and purposeful as they closed in on Eryx and his allies.

With a fierce snarl, Eryx lunged into action, his instincts taking over as he swiftly targeted the first elf who dared to lower their weapon upon his soldiers. With lightning speed, he closed the distance between them, his powerful jaws snapping shut around the elf's neck. He felt the satisfying crunch of bone beneath his razor-sharp teeth as he tore into the darkling's jugular, the taste of warm blood flooding his senses as it spilled from the wound.

Meanwhile, Zeya moved with calculated precision, her movements fluid and agile as she darted behind the group of elves, seeking higher ground for a strategic advantage. With a swift leap, she vaulted onto a nearby boulder, her eyes ablaze with determination as she surveyed the chaos unfolding below.

Without hesitation, Zeya threw herself into the fray with reckless abandon, her attacks fueled by a fierce determination to protect her comrades at all costs. With each savage bite and ferocious blow, she struck fear into the hearts of their adversaries, tossing the elves aside like mere ragdolls in her relentless onslaught.

As the chaos of battle raged on, Eryx's keen senses caught a familiar sight from the corner of his eyes. Amidst the swirling darkness, the midnight black fur of Jasper's wolf form blended seamlessly with the shadows as he lurked, his intense gaze fixed upon the bound child.

Instinctively, Eryx recognized Jasper's presence, the subtle nuances of his body language speaking volumes to their shared history and training. With a swift decision, Eryx released the elf he had gripped between his jaws and sprinted toward the young boy, determined to protect him from any potential threat.

As Eryx closed the distance, Jasper emerged from the darkness, his own wolf form poised for action. But Eryx intercepted him, positioning himself between the child and the black wolf, his growl reverberating with a primal warning.

"What the fuck do you want?" Eryx's voice was low and menacing, his stance defensive as he confronted Jasper, his eyes narrowed with suspicion and distrust.

"Hello, Eryx," Jasper greeted, his voice steady and determined, his stance rigid with purpose. "I'm not here for you. We just want the boy."

"Fuck off," Eryx shot back, his tone sharp with defiance.

Jasper's expression hardened as he continued, his words laced with accusation.

"He stole from the elves. Those three puppies with him? He stole them from the den."

"Then take them and leave," Eryx retorted, his voice cold and resolute.

"We can't do that," Jasper shook his head, his features set in a grim frown. "He must be punished."

"He's not their kind," Eryx reminded him, his gaze unwavering. "The boy is Vorean."

"Exactly why he must be punished," Jasper countered, his voice tinged with conviction.

"You want to make an example out of a little boy?" Eryx narrowed his eyes, his disbelief palpable. "I thought your whole life's motto was that these savages have morals?"

"Says the man whose father slaughters men, women, and children daily," Jasper's wolf snarled in retort. "Step away from the boy. This does not need to be so complicated. He's not a highborn. Who cares if one civilian goes missing?"

"He's not going anywhere," Eryx declared firmly, his resolve unyielding as he stood his ground, a protective shield between the child and Jasper's looming threat.

The tension between the two wolves crackled in the air as they circled each other, their movements fluid and predatory. Eryx, with his larger frame, exuded a sense of power and authority, while Jasper's lithe form hinted at his agility and speed. Each held their ground, their eyes locked in a fierce, unyielding stare as they prepared for the inevitable clash.

As they circled, Eryx keenly observed Jasper's movements, recognizing the telltale signs of impatience in the black wolf's restless demeanor. With a calculated strategy in mind, Eryx waited for the opportune moment, biding his time until Jasper's impetuosity got the better of him.

In a flash, Jasper lunged forward, his movements swift but predictable. Anticipating the attack, Eryx sprang into action, leaping into the air with a powerful thrust of his hind legs. With precision timing, he collided with Jasper mid-air, sending both wolves tumbling to the ground in a tangled mass of fur and muscle.

As they rolled downhill, the underbrush erupted in a cacophony of snapping twigs and rustling leaves, the scent of earth and vegetation filling the air. Branches cracked under the force of their struggle as they tore at each other's fur with razor-sharp claws and snapping jaws.

Finally, they reached the bottom of the pit, where Eryx managed to disentangle himself from Jasper's grasp. With a steady gaze, he watched as the black wolf collided with the rocks, a pained yelp escaping Jasper's lips as he recoiled from the impact.

Breathing heavily, Eryx stood his ground, his senses heightened as he awaited Jasper's next move. Despite the battle that had just transpired, he remained vigilant.

"You're quicker on your feet now," Eryx remarked as Jasper rose to his feet.

"I can't say the same for you," Jasper chuckled. "You're holding back."

"I'm showing mercy for old time's sake," Eryx said evenly.

"Or you're not as strong as you used to be," Jasper mocked, his tone laced with derision. "Because of Meera."

Eryx's eyes darkened at the mention of his mate.

"I never thought I would live to see the day Eryx Alexious couldn't control his mate," Jasper laughed cruelly. "What's it like, Eryx? To know you're denied all that power."

Jasper's words seared through Eryx like a blade, igniting a simmering rage within him. With a low growl, he bared his teeth in response.

"Since you couldn't have a real bond with her, let me tell you what it's really like to have a mate," Jasper continued, his words dripping with malice. "Should I begin with how it feels to mark your elemental?"

As Jasper spoke, monstrous hounds emerged from the shadows, their size and hunger apparent. The echoes of battle reverberated from above the pit, but Jasper and Eryx were consumed by their own deadly dance.

"I'll let you have your moment, Jazz," Eryx interjected, his gaze flicking to the hounds and their menacing presence. "I know having something of value is new for someone like you. Go on. Show off your mate."

"It's all really very amusing, Eryx," Jasper's laughter rang out, chilling in its cruelty, "We always thought you would have the greatest bond with your mate. But look how cruel the universe it. Your mate runs to us for help. That must be a blow to your ego."

Eryx's eyes narrowed further, a dangerous glint flickering within them.

"Oh, she didn't tell you," Jasper taunted.

As the two wolves circled each other, a tall figure emerged with the hounds. Eryx's gaze darted to the edge of the pit, where he caught sight of Arthur. The elemental crouched down, his small eyes peering into the pit as his mate dance with Eryx.

"You said we wouldn't survive a day in the Northpass. But look at us now, Eryx!," Jasper declared "We're thriving and We own your mate!"

Enraged, Eryx let out a haunting growl that echoed through the air as he lunged forward. In an attempt to protect his mate, Arthur held out his hand, and the ground before Eryx erupted into flames. The intense heat blasted against Eryx's face as Jasper's laughter rang out from the other side.

"We wield the control you so desperately desire," Jasper taunted, his words seething with contempt. "We control Meera. Her abilities, her trust, and her dreams. It's all ours."

Eryx felt every restraint in his body snap as he lunged into the fire. His powerful jaws sank into Jasper's neck just as Arthur pulled out his sword and jumped into the pit.

"What did you do to her?" Eryx demanded, his voice dripping with rage as he clamped down on Jasper's neck.

The black wolf whimpered in pain as Eryx shoved him hard against the unforgiving sharp rocks, their bodies entangled in a ferocious clash of snarls and growls. Blood mingled with the earth beneath them as their struggle intensified, each seeking dominance over the other.

With a primal roar, Eryx rose up on his hind legs, muscles straining as he unleashed all his strength, driving his weight into Jasper and sending the wolf crashing to the ground. But before he could deliver the final blow, a flash of steel sliced through the air as Arthur leaped forward, his sword piercing Eryx's side with a sickening thud.

Agony lanced through Eryx's body, but he refused to yield. With a defiant snarl, he turned his attention to Arthur, his jaws snapping dangerously as blood dripped from his wounds, staining the ground crimson.

But as Eryx moved to knock the blade out of Arthur's hands, his senses began to dull. The searing pain in his ribs throbbed, and black spots danced before his vision.

Growling, Eryx's balance faltered as he staggered toward Arthur. The elemental's eyes widened with fear as the towering wolf swayed unsteadily at his side.

"Arthur!" Jasper's urgent call echoed through the pit. "Let's go. We have to go!"

Arthur hesitated. "What about the boy?"

"We have to go!" Jasper growled, his words ringing with urgency.

__________________

Meera sat before the mirror, her mind drifting into a realm of uncertainty as the maid meticulously combed through her thick, dark locks. The fragrant steam of rose oil and jasmine water enveloped her senses, lulling her into a state of pondering as she peered at her reflection.

I can't live without you...

The words echoed in her mind, replaying the confession that had escaped Eryx's lips the night before. Meera felt her heart flutter, a rush of warmth flooding her cheeks as she stirred in her seat, unable to meet her own gaze in the mirror.

What did Eryx mean by those words? The question lingered in Meera's thoughts, swirling like wisps of smoke, obscuring any clear answers. She chewed on her bottom lip, fingers tracing the intricate patterns of the vanity table, lost in a labyrinth of uncertainty.

"How would you like your hair done, Princess?" the maid asked, glancing at Meera's reflection in the mirror.

Meera looked up, her thoughts still lost in a whirlwind of uncertainty. "Pardon me?" she murmured, not quite registering the question.

"Down," Venna interjected, turning from where she sat basking in the warm sunlight streaming through the window of her room.

"Down it is then," Meera responded with a grateful smile, relieved to be spared the burden of making a decision.

"Certainly," the maid replied, her own smile warm and accommodating. "Would you like some of the pieces braided back—"

Suddenly, as the maid spoke, Meera was seized by an agonizing, sharp pain that shot through the side of her ribs. A strangled cry tore from her lips as she doubled over in pain, crashing to the floor with a resounding thud. Venna leaped to her feet, her eyes wide with alarm, as she rushed to Meera's side, her heart pounding with fear and concern.

"Meera?" Venna grabbed Meera's shoulders and helped her onto her knees. "What's wrong?"

Meera gasped for air. She held the side of her ribs as her eyes watered and the metallic taste of blood filled the back of her throat. For a brief moment, light flashed before her eyes and she found herself staring at a red sky. Flames danced around her as angels with white hair and pale skin flew over her. Meera felt the cold snow beneath her as she let out a painful breath.

Eryx.

"V-Venna," Meera grabbed the girl's hand. "Eryx.....where's Eryx?"

"I....I don't know," Venna's voice trembled. She looked up at the maid with her eyes full of panic. "Go find the Prince! And Will. Find Will!"

Frightened, the maids rushed out of the room. Meera, fighting to regain her senses as flashes from of fire and smoke assaulted her, used all her strength to push herself onto her feet.

"No," she shook her head as Venna tried to guide her to the bed.

"Meer-"

Meera didn't bother to waste anywords. She let go of Venna's hand and turned toward the door. Each step shot pain through her system and the taste of blood intensifed in her mouth. But the urge to follow the sudden tug inside her chest was uncontrollable.

Throwing Venna's doors open, Meera stumbled out into the corridors. She wiped her tears and turned toward the back foyer of the castle. Gathering her dress in her hands, Meera took off running.

Just as she reached the foyer, Meera let out a horrified scream.

"Eryx!"

Zeya and Sven, still in their wolf forms, looked up as they carried the unconscious silver wolf into the castle. Meera's scream echoed through the halls, drawing everyone's attention as she hurried down the winding stairwell.

"Meera, no, no," Bram, who waited beside Zeeb and Fenno, reached out in an attempt to pull the princess back.

"Don't touch me!" Meera screamed at the top of her lungs as she pushed Bram aside and ran to Eryx's side.

"Let her go, Bram," Zeeb spoke up. "That's her mate."

Reaching Eryx's wolf, Meera fell to her knees as Zeya and Sven lowered Eryx onto the floor. They rested his head upon her lap and stepped back as Meera threw her arms around him and began to sob uncontrollably.

"What happened?" She asked, looking at Sven and then at Zeya. "How did this happen?"

"The elves," one of the guards spoke, his head lowered. "Along with Jasper and Arthur."

Meera's world seemed to narrow to a single point as she processed the guard's words. The elves. Jasper and Arthur. The names echoed in her mind like a sinister refrain, fueling the flames of her rage.

Her chest tightened, and her breath came in short, sharp gasps as the full weight of what had happened crashed down upon her. The air around her crackled with fury as she struggled to contain the storm raging within her.

Gripping Eryx's fur with a white-knuckled intensity, Meera's eyes blazed with an infernal fire as she turned her gaze toward Sven and Zeya.

"Who did this to him?" Meera's voice trembled with suppressed fury as she demanded answers. "Arthur or Jasper?"

"There will be plenty of time for this," Zeeb stepped forward. "Meera, we must tend to Eryx's wounds now. He was attacked by a moon blade. It can be fatal if not taken care of right away."

Meera's grip on Eryx tightened as Zeeb's words pierced through the haze of her rage. She remained unmoved for a few seconds before nodding, her jaw clenched with determination, but her gaze fixed on Eryx's still form.

As the soldiers swiftly carried Eryx to a nearby room, Meera followed close behind, her heart pounding in her chest with each step. She watched with a mixture of dread and determination as they laid him gently upon the large bed, his head coming to rest upon her lap.

Refusing to leave his side for even a moment, Meera brushed her fingers through his fur, her touch gentle yet urgent. She felt the warmth of his body beneath her touch, a stark contrast to the chill of fear that gripped her heart.

Tears streamed down her face unchecked as she cradled his head against her chest, willing him to hold on. With each ragged breath he took, she felt her own heartache deepen, a knot of anguish tightening in her chest. Burying her face against his fur, Meera whispered prayers to the gods, her voice trembling with emotion. She felt the wetness of her tears mingling with the softness of his fur.

Bram, Zeeb, and Fenno worked tirelessly to staunch the bleeding and administer healing potions, their movements swift and precise. Venna, Sven and Zeya hovered nearby, her hearts trembling with fear as they watched over Meera and Eryx, offering silent support in the face of uncertainty.

Time seemed to blur as Meera remained by Eryx's side, her heart pounding with every beat, every breath he took. She refused to entertain the thought of losing him, pushing aside the gnawing fear that threatened to overwhelm her.

"What's moon blade?" She asked as the bloody clothes were cleared out of the room and the soldiers began to depart.

"Silver forged by elves," Fenno said quietly, his eyes examining Eryx's wounds one last time as Zeeb carefully applied the herbs. "It's deadly for wolves."

"But he will heal," Meera felt the back of her throat tighten. "Right?"

"For you, he will," Fenno looked up, his worn eyes meeting Meera. "You felt the blade today."

"I did..." Meera shuddered. Her heart clenched knowing Eryx had suffered through the same agony.

"Moon blade will do that," Fenno nodded, his eyes grim. "The power of the blade can travel through bodies, souls, time, and space. It's the only blade capable of leaving Selene's children on their knees."

As Fenno's words hung heavy in the air, Meera felt the weight of them pressing down upon her. She held onto Eryx with a fierce determination, unwilling to let him slip away from her grasp even for a moment.

"Will he shift back to his human form?" Meera's voice trembled as she looked down at the wolf, her heart pounding in her chest.

"He will, once he's awake," Fenno replied solemnly.

Zeeb cleared his throat, his expression filled with concern. "Until then, I suggest you let him rest and get yourself sorted."

"I'm fine right here, thank you," Meera said definitely.

"Princess Meera," Zeeb frowned.

"Don't try to convince me, Zeeb," Meera shook her head. "I am not going anywhere until he is conscious and speaking to me."

The alchemist tried to open his mouth to protest but Fenno stopped him. Meera looked away as the pair began to argue in hushed tones. She paid them no mind. She was resolute in her decision, her focus solely on Eryx lying before her.

After several minutes of heated discussion, Zeeb relented, muttering under his breath as Fenno led him out of the room. Bram, hovering awkwardly nearby, offered Meera a blanket, his eyes filled with concern.

"What is it?" Meera asked.

"Will you be okay?" Bram asked tentatively. "Alone... with him."

Meera followed Bram's eyes to the furious wolf on her lap.

"I'll be just fine, Bram," she said, brushing the back of her knuckles over the patch of fur between Eryx's brows. "Thank you."

"We'll be near if you need anything," Bram assured her.

Meera nodded gratefully. "Thank you."

Bram peered at Meera for a few seconds. His eyes were full of concern and his brows knit. After a while, he turned and walked to the door.

As the door closed behind him, leaving Meera alone in the room with Eryx, a heavy silence descended upon them. The only sound was the rhythmic rise and fall of Eryx's breathing as he lay unconscious on the bed.

Meera's heart clenched with worry as she studied the wolf's face, his features softened in sleep yet still marred by the remnants of battle. She gently traced the lines of his fur, her fingers trembling slightly with emotion as she spotted the patches of blood that were yet to be cleaned.

"Eryx," she whispered, her voice barely above a breath. "Can you hear me?"

The room felt too quiet, too empty without the presence of others. Meera shifted uncomfortably on the bed, her gaze flickering nervously around the room as she grappled with her fear and uncertainty.

What if he doesn't wake up? she thought, her mind swirling with doubts and insecurities. What if...

But then, as if in response to her silent plea, Eryx stirred slightly, a low groan escaping his lips. Meera's heart leaped in her chest as she leaned closer, her eyes filled with hope and desperation.

"Eryx?" she called softly, reaching out to touch his cheek. "I'm here."

There was no response, but Meera refused to lose hope. She settled back against the headboard, her hand resting gently on Eryx's fur, her silent vigil continuing as she waited for him to awaken.

As the minutes stretched into hours, Meera's exhaustion began to weigh heavily on her. Despite her best efforts to stay awake and alert, the tension of the day and the emotional turmoil took its toll on her weary body.

With each steady rise and fall of Eryx's breathing, Meera found herself slipping further into a state of drowsiness. Her eyelids grew heavy, and the warmth of the room enveloped her like a comforting embrace.

Meera fought against the urge to succumb to sleep, knowing that she needed to stay vigilant in case Eryx showed any signs of waking. But the pull of exhaustion was relentless, and soon her efforts became futile.

As her breathing slowed and her muscles relaxed, Meera drifted into a fitful sleep. Her head drooped forward slightly, her hand still resting on Eryx's fur as she leaned against the headboard.

In her dreams, she saw flashes of fire and shadows, echoes of the day's events haunting her subconscious. But amid the chaos, Arthur's figure stood, his eyes watching Meera as she rose to her feet.

"How could you?" Meera asked, her teeth clenched as she marched toward the man.

"Meera-"

"He's hurt and I can't heal him!" Meera used all her might to shove Arthur's shoulder. "And it's all because of you!"

"Meera, listen to me!"

"No!" Meera screamed. "I'm done entertaining you. Get the hell out of my dreams."

"I need to tell you something-"

"Leave my dreams or I will have Eryx comb through the woods until he delivers your head to me on a silver platter," Meera threatened, her eyes wild like the sea during a storm.

"We found the air elemental!" Arthur grabbed Meera's shoulders and jerked her forward.

Repulsed by his touch, Meera swung her fists and struck Arthur across his jaw. Her knuckles began to throb as she grabbed his shirt and pulled him down. Using him as leverage, Meera slammed her knee into his stomach, earning a satisfying groan.

"Meera," Arthur said breathlessly, gasping for air and dropping to his knees. He reached up to grab her hand but Meera pushed it aside.

"What do you want from me?" She shouted, her mind running wild from the stress of the day.

"The air elemental," Arthur coughed. "He's outside the wall. He's in danger, Meera."

"Lies," Meera shook her head. "More lies to manipulate me."

"No," Arthur shook his head. "He needs us. We need to keep him away from Zeya or Sven-"

"Don't touch me!" Meera screamed as she felt a warm touch against her face.

"I'm not-" Arthur looked at her with confusion as Meera's eyes began to flutter.

"Meera?"

Gasping, Meera's eyes flung open.

"Are you okay?" Eryx's silver gaze stared down at her with worry as he held himself over her.

With labor breaths, Meera stared at Eryx. She was tucked neatly against his side, her head resting on his arm. She could feel his warmth as he spread his fingers over her cheek and waited for her to answer.

Meera's heart clenched with emotions and her eyes watered. She pushed up to her elbows and locked her arms around his neck, pulling him onto of her as she buried her face in his shoulder.

Eryx tensed. He felt Meera tremble as she began to weep. Her hot tears slid down his bare chest as he pressed her into the bed and tightened his arms around her tiny body. Her peachy scent filled his lungs and he inhaled deeply, ignoring the pain in his ribs.

"Don't cry, my moon," Eryx whispered against Meera's ear. "I'm okay."

With a shaky breath, Meera pulled her face away from Eryx's shoulder. She found herself lost in the depths of Eryx's eyes, her heart beating wildly in her chest. Without hesitation, she reached out, her fingers trembling as they traced the contours of his face.

A rush of warmth flooded through Eryx's veins. Meera's proximity, her touch, ignited a fire within him that he could not deny. His hand gently cupped her cheek, his touch sending sparks of electricity coursing through her body.

"Are you okay?" Meera asked, her voice airy and shaky. Her eyes welled up with tears and the tip of her nose turned red.

The corner of Eryx's mouth curved up as he leaned forward and kissed the tip of her nose.

"I'm okay, my darling," he whispered. "Are you?"

Meera nodded.

"Were you having a bad dream?"

Meera nodded once more, her heart clenching. Eryx watched the way her face crumbled and he felt his own chest tighten. He leaned down once more and kissed her forehead. Meera's hand on his shoulder tensed and her fingers curled. Eryx felt her body shift underneath him. Her heart began to beat faster and faster as he grazed his lips along the edge of her face and reached her cheek.

"Breath, Meera," he said to her with a gentleness he seemed to find only around her. "I'm okay."

As Eryx felt Meera's hand in his hair, a surge of electricity shot through him, igniting every nerve ending in his body. He couldn't resist the pull of her touch, the way it seemed to soothe the ache within him and bring him peace.

Eryx knew he should pull away. He needed to create some distance between their bodies before they both got carried away and gave into the spell in the air.

But the thought of moving away from Meera at that moment seemed worse than death.

Eryx pulled Meera closer, their bodies pressed together as if they were two halves of a whole. He rested his forehead against hers, savoring the feeling of her soft breath against his skin.

In that tender moment, Meera's presence enveloped him in a cocoon of warmth and affection that Eryx never wanted to escape. As their gazes locked, he felt an overwhelming surge of emotion welling up inside him, threatening to spill over at any moment. He could see the worry and vulnerability reflected in Meera's eyes, and it stirred something deep within him, something primal and fierce.

Without a second thought, Eryx leaned in closer, his lips hovering just inches from hers. Every fiber of his being screamed for him to close the distance, to lose himself in the sweetness of her kiss. His heart pounded in his chest as he inched even closer, his breath mingling with hers in the space between them. Time seemed to stand still.

In that moment, Eryx knew that he couldn't resist Meera any longer. As he gazed into Meera's eyes, he felt a wave of clarity wash over him, bringing with it the realization that he was deeply and irrevocably in love with her.

It wasn't just a fleeting attraction or a passing infatuation – it was a profound, soul-deep connection that had been growing stronger with each passing day. In that suspended moment, as they held themselves on the cliff of a kiss that would change everything, Eryx understood the depth of his feelings for Meera.

She was more than just his mate or his partner. She was his other half, the missing piece of his soul that he had been searching for without even realizing it.

"Forgive me, Meera," Eryx said. "For all the pain and all the hurt I have caused you."

The warmth in Meera's eyes turned to a shadow of pain, a reflection of the inevitable reality that lingered in the air. Eryx felt a pang in his chest, knowing that they couldn't stay lost in each other forever.

Reluctantly, Meera's hand started to retreat, breaking the physical bond they had shared. Eryx watched helplessly as their connection slipped away, wishing desperately to hold onto it for just a moment longer. But they both knew that the world around them demanded their attention once more.

With a heavy heart, they pulled away from each other, their unspoken feelings hanging in the air like a bittersweet melody. In the silence that followed, Eryx and Meera exchanged a lingering glance, each wordlessly conveying the depth of their emotions before turning away.

"What happened out there?" Meera asked as she sat up and moved to sit on the edge of the bed.

Eryx sighed, falling back against the pillows and staring up at the ceiling. His jaw was cleansed as he threw an arm over his eyes. His broad shoulder and naked chest rose and fell in a steady breath as the sheets covered him below the waist. Meera averted her eyes as she noticed the bulge underneath the sheets.

Feeling the weight of Meera's gaze, Eryx shifted on the bed. He could sense the tension between them, the unspoken desire that lingered in the air like a palpable force.

"The elves, along with Jasper and Arthur were trying to kidnap a Voriean child," Eryx replied, his voice strained with exhaustion.

Meera's brows furrowed with concern as she processed his words, "Why?"

"They say he stole hound puppies from them."

Meera listened attentively, her mind swimming back to Arthur's words from her dream.

The air elemental....

"Did you see the child?" Meera asked.

"Yes."

"And?"

Eryx let out a weary sigh, lowering his arm from his eyes to meet her gaze. The vulnerability in his silver eyes mirrored the turmoil in her own heart.

"He'll be fine," he assured her. "A bit shaken but safe."

Meera nodded slowly, "And you?"

"I'm okay," Eryx gave her a small smile. "I promise."

"I felt the moon blade," Meera said quietly.

"I know," Eryx's face twisted in pain. "I'm sorry you had to feel that."

"Will you heal?"

"In time," Eryx said. "Moon blade does more damage to us than any other blade. It'll take time, but I'll be okay."

Meera nodded once more. A thick silence fell over the room as their hands glided over the sheets with their knowledge and brushed against one another. Eryx stared out the window as Meera sat staring at the floor.

"What did you mean the other night?" She asked after a while. "When you said you couldn't live without me."

There was a pause as Eryx considered her question. It was an easy answer. The biggest truth of his life. But also the most powerful truth that could change the course of their destinies.

"It's getting late," Eryx said after a few long minutes of silence. "You should go prepare for the celebrations."

Meera felt her chest squeeze and her throat tighten. She bit back the tears in her eyes and slowly rose to her feet. With small steps, she walked to the door without looking back at Eryx. But as she pulled one of the heavy doors open, Eryx called out to her.

"Meera?"

Meera paused but did not turn, "Yes?"

"When Zeeb comes to see me tonight, take Bram to his chambers and find willow moss," Eryx said slowly.

Meera peeked over her shoulder to the prince sitting on the bed, "Why?"

"It'll guard your dreams from him," Eryx said, his eyes meeting hers.  

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