‘Please forgive me for everything I left unsaid..I’d like to rectify that if I could..And if I had the chance to make you believe, for you I would erase the dark side in me..’ ~Andra and the Backbone~
Quick recap: Raphael revealed the fact that Lunalea’s a half-demon and that the demon blood in her was getting active. Mikael saw them talking and somehow felt jealous.
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Part 15
[Lunalea POV]
“Underworld?” Lord Raphael frowned. “You need to go to the underworld?” He looked at me attentively, as if trying to figure out how in the world I could come up with such a crazy idea. I didn’t tell him about Lord Uriel’s prophecy because I didn’t want to have to explain to him how I could end up in the mysterious great general’s chamber in the first place.
I nodded slowly. “Yes, My Lord..now that I know I am—half demon…” I grimaced when I stated the last part, “perhaps I can find out the truth about my past in the underworld..”
For a good five minutes he looked thoughtful, then he said slowly, “Yes, that makes sense..but are you aware of the risk? Do you know how dangerous that place is?”
I gulped. Of course I knew. “I will take the risk, My Lord.. I just can’t stay here and become.. a threat.” Either way I might get killed anyway. I hadn’t told him that I already had black-out twice, and I doubted that Lord Raphael would stay nice to me after he knew that I was seriously a threat and therefore needed to be eliminated..
“Then I will go with you.”
“No.” I said hastily, making Lord Raphael kind of startled that I declined his offer so quickly, so I added, “My Lord don’t have to..risk your life for me..” in fact, I was afraid that during the journey to the underworld I would have a black-out and try to kill him.
“Why not..?” he muttered to himself, seemed rather amused for reasons I couldn’t see. “So,” he went back to me, “What kind of help I can give you then?”
“Ah..I was hoping you could tell me..the location of the gate to the underworld..and help me with the means to get there..” red tainted my cheeks for I felt somehow ashamed.
“Yes, I can do that. When do you plan to leave?”
I thought for a moment before answering, “The sooner the better, My Lord..I think of tonight, if it’s possible..” I didn’t know how much longer I had before the demon blood’s completely active.
“I see. But are you sure about this?” he asked once again. I nodded in determination and Lord Raphael stated grimly, “Very well. You have already made up your mind. Now..how are you going to tell your husband?”
At once I remembered that Lord Mikael had told him about our marriage the previous day, and I felt awkward because I didn’t know how Lord Raphael react to that. He looked impartial, but who knew what’s in his heart, and I must admit I didn’t like the thought that I had upset him. “I..I don’t think..I can tell him..” I stuttered, referring to Lord Mikael.
“I understand..” Lord Raphael nodded with concern, “But you know then, how angry he will be if you leave him without explanation?”
I looked down and said weakly, “That is..also a risk I have to take..” My heart ached at the thought of leaving Lord Mikael. I couldn’t imagine how painful it would be for him..everyone he loved left him.. I hoped he wouldn’t think that I betrayed him.
“Lunalea..” Lord Raphael addressed me softly. I looked up and, realizing he had got up from his chair, I got up also. “I have another appointment..with the King.” He told me.
“Oh!” I bowed down apologetically, “Forgive me for detaining you, My Lord..”
“Don’t apologize.” He smiled. He walked up to the door and opened it, holding it for me as I exited the room. Lord Raphael closed the door after him and stood in front of me, saying, “I am the one who should apologize to you..for bringing you this bad news..”
I shook my head. “No, I am grateful you tell me the truth, My Lord..no matter how bitter it is..” I replied in cracked voice.
He leaned slightly towards me and placed his hand on my shoulder, stroking it gently. “I don’t know how shocked you are..but you should just rest for today, you don’t have to work.” He said. “And if you stick with your decision..meet me tonight at the stable.”
I nodded and murmured thank you.
Then we headed for opposite directions; Lord Raphael went to the King’s hall, and I intended to go to the infirmary, despite his advice to rest. I was hoping that working would distract my troubled mind for a while. I needed that. I had received too much information in such a short period of time and it felt like my head’s going to burst.
As I was pacing slowly, someone suddenly grabbed my waist from behind and lifted up my body. I shrieked. “My Lord!” I gasped when I realized it was my husband, Lord Mikael. My heart started thumping wildly; Since when did he stand behind me?
He started walking fast-paced while carrying me, and I could do nothing but to wrap my arms around his neck. “Is there something you wish to tell me?” muttered Lord Mikael, loud enough for me to hear. He didn’t look at me, but I could see from his expression that he was irritated and upset. And jealous.
I stiffened. Did he saw me with Lord Raphael? Did he hear what we were talking? No, it couldn’t be. It’s highly unlikely for Lord Mikael to do something as despicable as eavesdropping. Besides, if he knew I was…no, I couldn’t say it. It’s too horrible.
“So you choose to confide your secrets to Raphael, instead to me?” he said icyly, before I could even answer his first question . The coldness in his voice made me want to cry.
“My Lord..I think you misunderstand..” I replied, my voice quavering.
“Oh, I do, don’t I?” he hissed sarcastically.
“Yes..” I spoke in a whisper, my eyes were brimming with tears. “I was talking to Lord Raphael about some potions he is developing..” I lied, feeling awful. I hated not to tell him the truth, but I just couldn’t reveal it to him; how could I?? I was afraid of what his reaction might be. I couldn’t bear seeing his love for me turned into hatred.
“Sure you were.” Snapped Lord Mikael, indicating that he didn’t believe a word I said. I was a lousy liar.
At that time we had reached his palace, and some maids that we encountered were staring at us in complete curiosity after they made bows. I felt my cheeks burned in embarrassment, but Lord Mikael was oblivious to our surroundings.
“My Lord..I don’t understand why you are so upset…” I said warily.
He pouted—if only he’s not mad, I would think he’s cute. “I’m not upset.” He growled, “I’m perfectly fine. I’m fine with your hiding things from me; I’m fine with the fact that you don’t trust me enough.”
“That’s not true!” I cried desperately.
Finally he looked at me, and forced a smile. A painful one. And it hurted my heart. “Sure. I’m just rambling.” He said, still with the sarcastic tone. I barely noticed we had reached his chamber already—Lord Mikael kicked the door open.
We went in, he kicked the door close, and he threw me roughly on to the bed. I gasped in shock, and before I could manage to sit up, he trapped me under his body. Holding both of my wrist firmly, he leaned down and started kissing me fiercely, on my lips and my neck. I tried to protest, but it only made him hold me tighter. Tears leaking from my eyes, there’s no tenderness in his action, I could only feel pain and sorrow hidden under the harshness.
“Mikael..” I whimpered, unconsciously addressing him only by his name, “please..stop..”
Lord Mikael didn’t seem to hear my plea, or he did hear but decided to ignore it. Instead he ripped the front of my dress to give him access to my chest. Right, another torn dress.. Now while kissing me fervently, his right hand cupped my breast and squeezed it, a little too hard, and I screamed in pain.
“Mikael!” I cried loudly.
To my surprise, he sat up abruptly, looking at me with bewildered expression. I swore I saw a hint of guilt in his eyes. Lord Mikael then turned around and sat on the edge of the bed, resting his forehead on his palm. I heard him draw a sharp breath.
I sat up slowly. Watching his somehow lonely back made me feel guilty myself. I reached out and touched his back. He didn’t react. I moved forward and gently wrapped my arms around his torso.
“Forgive me..” he said in shattered voice, “I’m such an idiot who cannot control his emotion..”
I shook my head, but didn’t say anything. I didn’t know what to say..I might end up confessing everything if I opened my mouth, and I couldn’t risk it..
Lord Mikael placed his hand on top of mine, his calloused fingers slowly rubbing the back of my hand. “I’m afraid, you know.. I’m afraid of losing you..” he slowly confessed, obviously revealing his weakness was difficult for him, “when I saw you with Raphael, I just.. I don’t know…” his voice faltered.
“Will you forgive me?” he turned around and looked at me straight in the eyes.
I just nodded and smiled weakly, then I gave him a chaste kiss, silently saying ‘forgive me too..’
When the kiss broke, Lord Mikael smiled back at me. A large part of pain in his eyes was gone, but some still remained I could tell. He hugged me tightly, but gently this time. His warmth made me feel safe and relaxed, made it more difficult for me to leave..I loved him..and that’s why I must leave him..he’s not safe when I was around.
Just then we heard a knock on the door. Lord Mikael reluctantly let go of me and walked towards it. Whoever it was outside, he surely wouldn’t allow him/her go inside his chamber, not when his wife was on his bed with torn dress. He opened the door. I couldn’t see who was outside nor hear what they were talking.
A few minutes later Lord Mikael closed the door and went back to bed. To me. His face troubled.
“What is it..?” I whispered, getting up from the bed.
“I have to go.” He said gravely, “A large army of demons have been sighted marching from the east towards this castle.”
[Mikael POV]
Lunalea’s beautiful dark blue eyes widened. “But you’ve just got back.” She said, worried. I was glad that she concerned about me, and I felt foolish just a few minutes ago I felt extremely jealous about her and Raphael. And I deeply regretted treating her harshly; she didn’t deserve it.
I smiled lovingly and caressed her face. “Don’t worry..I’ll just eradicate those pests quickly, and return to you..” I told her. I noticed for a split second Lunalea cringed when I said ‘those pests’, but then it was replaced by a gentle smile.
“Just be careful..and be safe..” she said.
After that I allowed her to place another protective ward. She said the last one wasn’t strong enough and she blamed herself for my injuries. I said “Don’t blame yourself. It’s just me being careless.” Maybe if she didn’t place any ward my injuries would be more severe. I hated to admit it, but recently the demons seemed to be getting stronger, like their energy been boosted. Must be because of that crap about the rising of a new leader that lifted their spirit. It’s so troublesome.
Lunalea also helped me to put on my armor. And just when I bid my farewell, I got this ill-feeling out of the blue. Well, perhaps it’s because of that flash of guilt I saw in her eyes. I knew she keep secrets from me, and I didn’t want to force her to share them with me if she didn’t want to. It hurted me, to think that she didn’t trust me enough, but I reckoned it would take some time to trust someone, even if that someone’s your spouse.
I took one last look at my beloved wife before I left the chamber. Seeing her frail figure made me want to run back to her and hold her and never let go. But I reminded myself that I was a warrior that served this kingdom. I would never rest before the war’s over and peace’s once again brought into this land.
[Lunalea POV]
Once Lord Mikael left, I reached for my canvas bag. I would leave for the underworld tonight. I had to, before he returned from the battle. What a convenient coincidence wasn’t it, that he had to go to the battlefield when I decided to silently leave? I wiped my tears and sniffed, pulling out a purple leather covered book from my bag. A spell book.
I skipped 100 first pages of the book, the part that I had remembered by heart—the curative and defensive spells—and went straight to the part that contained offensive spells. I knew it was impossible to memorize all of it, but I would try my best to learn a few spells that might come handy in case I had to confront a demon—or a pack of demons. The fire spell looked promising, but I doubt I had enough power to use it. Plus the fact that now was autumn and the weather must be cold and windy, making it difficult to gather the natural forces to enhance the fire spell. So I focused on tornado spell and frost spell.
Time flew.
When it was time for dinner I changed my clothes and went to the dining hall. It was quite empty; most of the warriors must be out with Lord Mikael. And I noticed Lady Gabriel wasn’t in her place too. The only ones who sat on the high table were Lord Raphael..and the King himself. The King was a young man, probably in his mid twenties, apparently younger than Lord Raphael and Lord Mikael. He had a short wavy brown hair and a pair of dark brown eyes. His skin was pale because he was rarely exposed to the sunlight; I heard he had a sensitive skin. This evening His Highness wore a simple crimson red robe, with a gold crown adorned with rubies sat comfortably on the top of his head.
During dinner, I felt the King staring at my direction a few times. I knew because somehow I felt uneasy. But when I stole a glance, he was looking elsewhere. It’s creepy, so I finished my meal as fast as possible then left the hall and went to the kitchen. I asked for two large chunks of bread—a little provision for my journey, before I went back to Lord Mikael’s chamber.
I packed the bread along with a dozen vials of elixir. I also took a dagger from Lord Mikael’s weapon rack, just in case—we couldn’t always depend on magic. Then I slung my bag over my shoulder and put on a black hooded-cloak. After that I waited until midnight, silently reciting the offensive spells I had learned earlier.
The midnight came with a coldness that bit my bones. I made my way stealthily to the stable, avoiding any guard on sentry duty. I felt very nervous and afraid, I questioned my decision, but then I reminded myself that I had no choice.
Lord Raphael had waited for me, his bluish white robe was concealed beneath a dark blue cloak. However, the horse that stood next to him was striking white. It’s his horse, White Shadow, said to be the fastest horse in this kingdom. As I approached him, I noticed another horse and a man stood beside Lord Raphael. The horse was coal black and the man was tall and slim, wearing a dark green hooded-cloak with a quiver full of arrows attached to his back. I was suddenly alarmed.
“Lunalea.” Lord Raphael addressed me, and I bowed slightly. He looked tensed and couldn’t hide his anxiety. “This is Arnvid.” He introduced the man, “He’s one of the King’s personal soldiers, a notable hunter and archer. He will accompany you on your journey.”
Arnvid made a bow for me. “It’s an honor to escort a fair lady on a dangerous journey.” He stated politely. From up close I could see that he had a dark skin and a dark hair, and a scar across his face—running from his temple to his left ear. He looked calm yet dangerous. When he eyed me with his sharp green eyes, I felt a shiver running down my spine. His gaze was of an expert in calculating someone’s or something’s strength and capability.
“Take this.” Lord Raphael handed me a folded parchment, apparently a map. “The gate to the underworld is on the valley of Strangard Mountain. Just head north. It should take you two days to reach it.” He explained to me. I nodded solemnly, putting the map into my bag. “And take White Shadow.” I gave me the harness of his horse.
I took it hesitantly, asking, “Are you sure, My Lord?”
He smiled and nodded. “Absolutely. This is the least I can do for you.”
“This is more than I dare to expect, My Lord.” I said gratefully.
“Just make sure you come back safe, Lunalea...” Lord Raphael leaned forward and whispered something in my ear. Something that made me completely shocked, made me feel happy and scared at the same time. And I found myself staring at him in disbelief. He just nodded in comprehension.
Still in the state of daze, I let Lord Raphael helped me mount White Shadow. He then patted the nose of his horse affectionately. “Take care of her, will you White Shadow?” The horse snorted in response. I glanced to my side and noticed Arnvid had already mounted his horse, then I looked back at Lord Raphael.
“My Lord..” I began.
He stopped me by placing a finger upon his lips. “Ride safe.” He said, his melodic voice drifting in the wind. Then he patted White Shadow once again, harder this time, sending the beast galloping away. I jerked in surprise, tightening my grip on the harness. I took one last glance on my chief healer before I looked straight forward, riding into the night. Arnvid and his horse closely followed. What laid before me were darkness and uncertainty.
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Phew..^^; I sure hope you like this part..I’ve worked hard..
As usual, please review and comment..and vote if you like what you read ^^ Thx!
And thank you so much for reading!! I am grateful.