James, Trishanna and Bradley went downstairs. A passing maid directed them to the sitting room. When they opened the door, they were surprised to see the others gathered there as well, as they waited for the meal to be served. Trishanna walked to her friend, feeling bad that she was not there for her, after hearing that her parents had passed. Both women embraced, Trix pulling back to look at her charge. It was like everyone aged by ten years during that one day. They shared a look of acceptance and peace. Trishanna's eyes went to Bruno, her gaze resting on his father's ring, now settled on his right hand. Trixie's eyes followed, and when she saw what Trishanna was looking at, she proudly showed her own right hand, the gold band glinting softly in the evening sun. She shared how they went to find their childhood home, finding nothing left but an empty plot with the remnants of their stone structure. With a few enquiries, they then found their parents' grave, a bit away from the rest, close to where the former king and queen were laid. At least that dignity was given to them in death, if not in the last moments of their life. Trixie shared how they just sat there on the low grass, her head on her brother's shoulder as the memories they thought were gone drifted up from the surface. Even Bruno shed some tears, hurt, regret, fear and finally peace. They knew that no matter what, they were sure that their parents were glad that they were alive, and so was their charge.
Bruno cleared his throat from the sombre mood, wanting to interject. That made Trixie's eyes light up in delight. She held Trishanna's hand, telling her of the aunt, their mother's sister, who had married someone outside of Elysian. Lily had invited her to visit, putting her up in the town's inn, just in case the twins didn't want to meet anyone. It turns out that Aunt Alanna has similar powers to Trixie in regards to the library. They spent hours exploring her, which was smaller than Trixie's, discussing the possibilities of how it works. She was married to Jack, who was the captain of the Third Guard, the group of soldiers tasked with protecting their city. They also learnt that her Aunt and Uncle visited the human realm a few times, their city's portal being accessible. The twins learned that travel between realms was common.
Lily, being a gracious host, weaving through the guests, paused at their conversation. She added that some of the human technology has been integrated, or a version of it developed with the use of magic, since the atmosphere in this realm is more conducive to it. The portals or "gates" are heavily guarded, have been for centuries, as the people over here see how sometimes the technologies can be destructive to man and earth alike. That is why things that are harmful, like chemicals and weapons, are forbidden, and the portals can sense when someone is trying to smuggle them in. Bruno asked if it was similar to the X-ray machines at airports. Lily nodded, adding that it was one of the main reasons she feared Brodrick finding Rosie's portal. Though unstable, no enchantment would have been placed, causing there to be no restrictions. The group grew silent at that. Lily tried lifting everyone's spirits by saying how having New Crescent there, and then with Goldmoon moving in, that was why it was difficult for him to make any large movements.
Bradley came over, hearing the name of his pack, asking what was happening. Lily quickly explained, adding that Brodrick was the one who orchestrated his attack in the city months ago. Bradley rubbed his jaw, the pieces falling into place. That was why it was so hard to find proof, and if Brodrick used magic to cover his tracks, that would also explain the dead ends. Lily placed a hand on his arm, thankful that he was strong, since that was crucial to keeping their princess safe. The butler came in, announcing that the meal was ready.
Dinner was a simple affair. Stuffed quail, sauteed vegetables picked fresh from the garden, roasted potatoes and glasses of imported wine, not too strong, that went well with the meal. James took a bite, surprised at how hungry he actually was. He was sure that he was going to spend the rest of the evening pushing his food around. He looked around, seeing that the others were enjoying their meals as well. The talk around the table was light, just people asking what the others had been up to. Small bits of laughter. Cynthia found a lovely little book shop and spent hours perusing the shelves. Her thirst for knowledge of this world grew with each gentle touch of the old, worn spines. Trixie talked about the older cousin they'd met. She remembered them, but they were too small to recall her visiting them the few times she did. Buno shared how his uncle had shown him a part of their training grounds, and he was excited to learn their training methods, using both strength and magic to their greatest advantage.
The meal went well. The main dishes were cleared, and dessert and coffee were brought out. Lily cleared her throat, gaining the table's attention. "I know much happened today, but there is still one item that must be addressed before the night is through." She stood, "Princess Annaliese, I know that you have found your mates and your place in the human realm, but Elysian is your home, your birthright. As the only child of the rightful king and queen, it is your duty to return and take up your rightful place as our new ruler." The table was stunned, the sound of cutlery hitting plates the only distraction. Trishanna's eyes were wide as words stumbled, "M... M... Me?" she asked as if hearing wrong, yet Lily's nod only confirmed that her ears worked fine. She looked at her mates, their eyes mirroring the shock she felt. "I don't know the first thing about ruling or this realm." Lily shrugged, "You can learn, just as you did as a child. It will take some time, but with my guidance, you will be an excellent queen."
"Wait, what about my mates? My son?" Trishanna ask, panic growing in her chest. The thought of being separated from Chip again made the meal do a strange dance in her stomach. "If it is your decree, your mates are welcome to live in Elysian with you. As your son, he would be the next in line for the throne, naturally." This was too much for Trishanna and her mates. Both men stood, wiping their mouths. "Mistress Lily, we thank you for your hospitality and for bringing much closure to us, but you have to be out of your mind if you think we will abandon our packs," Bradley said, his lips bearly moving. James nodded, "Our son is already tasked with being the future Alpha of both our packs, and Trishanna is our Luna. We will not be staying." They made a move to leave, the other standing, preparing to follow.
Lily flicked her wrist, and the doors closed. "I understand how this must be, but this is how things are in Elysian and our realm. We must have a ruler of royal blood; otherwise, unrest will undoubtedly follow and the careful peace will once again be shattered." Trishanna closed her eyes, not wanting that to happen. What if someone came to take Chip, to make him king? "Is there no other way?" she asked, her voice soft. Lily gave a sad smile. "There is one possibility, but you, my Princess, must still be the one to give your authoritative consent." Trishanna closed her eyes, her heart racing, "What is it?" "You must publicly declare you are stepping down and handing the throne to...Malick."
"Malik?" Trishanna flew open, looking at the Second, who had a look of pure confusion. "Me?" he asked, pointing to himself. Lily indicated that everyone should sit. When Brodrick was still a teen, he was spoiled and entitled. Harassing and seducing the maids was his pastime. He got a few of them pregnant, and after they told him, he would act pleased, but would always cause them to have an accident, resulting in the death of the baby or sometimes both mother and child would perish. Malik's mother was another unfortunate soul caught in his web, but she noticed the pattern from the whispers of the other maids. Most of those girls had ideas of becoming a queen or a princess, but Malik's mother did not. She had feelings for what she thought was the lost and forgotten prince, but his true colours came out. She hid her pregnancy and left the palace. She gave birth, but was afraid, so she left him at the door of a couple who had tried to have children for many years. They raised Malik as their own, and their kindness allowed them to have a daughter of their own.
Brodrick was unaware of his only living son's existence for many years, but when he discovered Malik's talent for fighting and leadership, he began to dig and uncovered the truth. He felt like the couple had robbed him of his precious son, so he robbed them of their life and the life of their daughter. Malik looked sick as he realised that the man who killed the only family that he knew was actually the reason he was even created. His pain of hate and despair was carved from his soul. He wept bitterly, his emotions swirling; he feared he would go mad. His sister was just another ploy, another thing for Brodrick to control. He knew how much it would have affected Malik and did it anyway. He wept for his family and for himself.
Trishanna's eyes filled with tears as she looked at the man curled into himself on the floor. This was the only living blood relative, a cousin she never knew existed until now. She rushed to him, crooning words of comfort she hoped would pierce through the grief.
James's hands clenched as he looked at Lily. That was uncalled for. This revelation should have been done in private, behind closed doors, so Malik could grieve in peace. As if sensing his hostility, Lily looked at him, a shoulder raised as if to say, it needed to be said. He made a move as if to confront her, but Bradley held his arm. A quick shake of his head told him not to do that. They were still guests in a strange realm, and Lily was the only one able to send them home; besides, maybe this was their custom.
With Trishanna's comforting words and reminders that Brodrick was no longer here to do any more harm, her assurances that he would be nothing like him, Malik was able to regain his composure. When his sobs quieted, Lily shared why she dropped that piece of knowledge. With Malik being the only child of the younger son, it meant that he is of royal blood and can take the throne, only if Trishanna officially steps down and hands the kingdom over to him. Malik's eyes widened at the fact that he was royalty. He had a cousin. He could make things right again. He turned his red eyes to Trishanna, a question in them. Trishanna looked around at all the faces in the room. She could stay and try and hope she does well, or she could hand it over to the man who has proven that all he wants is what's best for Elysian. Standing tall with one hand on her cousin's shoulder, she said with authority. "I will abdicate the throne, handing it to Malick."
A month had passed since their first visit to Elysian when the invitation for Malick's crowning ceremony arrived. This time, they prepared well, bringing Charles along. Trishanna wanted him to have good memories of her realm, the place that was also half of him. They waited at the portal at the appointed time, and Lily appeared, welcoming them in. When Malik is crowned, he will have the authority to sanction this gate for private use, allowing Trishanna, the twin guardians and their mates and anyone approved to access Elysian. The sanctioning will also help stabilise the gate, and Lily promised to give them magical items that will allow them to open the gate at will.
This time, there were carriages, and they all stepped into them. Lily and Trishanna had to ride by themselves as Trishanna was the lost princess, not just a visitor. They were on official duties. James, Bradley and Charles rode the second, and the twin guardians were given horses to ride alongside Trishanna's carriage. The third hosted Sammy, Elder Cynthia, Alexa and Doctor Lorenzo. Trishanna insisted her sister-in law be with her, to calm her nerves. They soon arrived, riding through the village amidst welcoming cheers. Her parents were loved and respected, and that trickled down to her. "Princess..." Trishanna turned, not accustomed to being addressed like that. "If you wouldn't mind, I took the liberty to arrange for our traditional clothes to be made for you and your mates as well as your guardians. I hope you are not upset." Trishanna looked out the window at the smiling people. She could play dress up for a day. "Thank you", she said, smiling at Lily. They soon arrived at the palace and were quickly ushered to their respective rooms. The dress was beautiful, something out of a fairy tale. Lily walked her through the simple words she had to say after a quick address to the people, then Malick would step forward, kneel and receive the crown.
The ceremony went by without a hitch, and the people were clearly pleased with their new ruler. Trishanna stepped away, allowing Malick to make his speech as the new king. He spoke of respect, kindness and justice. The crowd went wild with joy, and soon the streets were filled with the sounds of happy music and laughter. When Trishanna stepped inside, she spotted her men. They were dressed like some mysterious, magical temptations, their bodies covered with fine fabrics that made her ache to see what secrets they hid. Bradley's lecherous smile was all that she needed to know that they felt the same way about her outfit.
There was a small ball in the banquet hall to celebrate Malick's rise to the throne. The few friends he had were happy for him, teasing him a lot. He held Charles in his arms, the little boy gravitated to him from the moment they met and would only leave for his meals. Malik was a proud uncle boasting about how brave Prince Charles was.
Lily was now officially appointed as the head of the King's Council. Cynthia was busy talking with the widowed owner of the little bookstore she'd found, Lorenzo Samuel and Alexa with her. The twins were on the other side of the room, speaking with their aunt, Alanna, and her daughter, their cousin, Amarra. It was a happy occasion, and Trishanna was pleased that it was going well. She felt the hairs on her neck prickle, and soon a husky breath stirred the loose hair by her ear. "Princess, you look ravishing. Doesn't she, my friend." Bradley's deep chuckle slid down her spine like a caress. "Yes, she does. Good enough to eat, and we have every intention of enjoying every last bite."
Trishanna shivered at their heat, her legs clamping shut under her dress in a pathetic attempt to ease the ache their voice awoke between her thighs. She turned to them, a scowl on her face. "Now is not the time for that. We are supposed to be distinguished guests." James took her in, her small crown slightly tilted on her head, the beautiful gown that made her look like a fairy, the satin shoes that showcased how slender and elegant her feet are. He swallowed. He had ideas that centred around her wearing those shoes and nothing else. Did he have a foot fetish? Bradley reached out a hand to gently stroke her cheek, his fingers trailing lower to the cut of her blouse where her breasts were pushed up in the most delightful way. His eyes darkening, he added, "Don't worry, my love. For now, we will behave, but when we get back home, you will have to reward us for being your good boys." Trishanna swallowed, her mind instantly in the gutter. She wasn't sure what she would do, but as her grin widened, she knew that whatever it was, they were all going to enjoy it and enjoy building their life. Together.