Chapter 41

“You seemed to have enjoyed your visit after our meeting,” Navine observed. We were soaring high in the sky together. The late afternoon sun was beginning to set, and we were finally on our way home.

The main part of the meetings had wrapped up hours ago, but Navine had lingered to give me more time to catch up with Lord Jekia’s family. It had been ages since I’d last seen them, and this was my first opportunity to meet Aurora and Luna. We hit it off so well that Navine thought it would be a shame to cut the visit short.

But it wasn’t just about me. Navine was also reconnecting with old friends. He and Lord Jekia had been friends for centuries, even though they hadn’t been in touch for a while.

Niles had stayed behind with them, and the three of them had a great time catching up while the rest of the family did the same.

“Yes, it was wonderful to spend time with them again,” I replied. “And it was so nice how they included Umira. I don’t think I’ve ever seen her as happy as she was today.”

“Freedom and true friendship are powerful things,” Navine said. “I get the feeling that Umira hasn’t experienced either in a long time. Even her relationship with those other two in Dominick’s palace was probably just for survival.”

“I think you’re right,” I said, hugging his shoulders a little tighter, enjoying the closeness. “Are you okay, Navine? How’s your wound?”

“I’m fine, and so is the wound,” he assured me. “But I am looking forward to getting home. It’s been a long day, even though it went well.”

I couldn’t agree more. As much as I had enjoyed the reunion, I was ready to get home and unwind. But there was something else I needed to process.

Something I’d realized while spending time with Luna and confirmed by Selenia. Luna was pregnant. I thought this news would upset me, but it didn’t.

Instead, it made me realize how much things had changed since I’d met Navine. It was like acknowledging a maturity I hadn’t known I’d achieved. These thoughts stayed with me even after we got home, distracting me a bit.

While Navine was busy sorting through some items that had arrived during his absence, I wandered around the palace, reflecting on everything that had happened in my life. I had lost and found so much since that fateful night.

My family was gone, but I had formed new familial bonds with Lord Jekia and Anika. I had moved on with my life, met Navine, and started a new life with him. The past may have connected us, but it didn’t dictate our future.

Rosaline was just one of my soul’s many lives. She wasn’t me. I pondered this as I sat by a window in the main parlor. The effects of the spell were mostly gone now.

It seemed to have faded when Dominick died. I wasn’t sure yet if that was a good or bad thing. Losing the part of me that felt like Rosaline was stranger than I’d anticipated.

“There you are.” A voice brought me back to reality. I turned to see Nanash slithering toward me, a look of concern on his face.

“Were you looking for me?” I asked.

“I was getting worried when I saw you wandering earlier. It’s not like you. Is there something you don’t want to talk about?” he asked, settling beside me.

I shook my head. “No, I was just thinking about a lot of things. I probably should have done it sooner, but with everything going on, I just couldn’t.”

“Do you regret your choices?”

“Never,” I said firmly. “I just needed to come to terms with a lot of things I’d been avoiding.”

Nanash watched me as I stared out the window at the deepening shadows. It was clear he wasn’t entirely convinced.

“I heard you spent time with Lord Jekia’s family. Did you finally meet Rin and Rayne’s Betas?” he asked after a few minutes of silence.

“I did,” I admitted, turning back to face him. I knew he wouldn’t drop it until I spilled what was on my mind. “It was quite the experience. I’d heard about their resemblance to me, but seeing Aurora in person was something else. She seemed just as surprised.”

“You must know that you left quite an impression on them, especially Rin,” he said. “Emelio mentioned more than once that Rin spoke of you frequently.”

A smile tugged at my lips. “I’m sure he did. Rin and I were close growing up—closer than I was with Rayne and Selenia. I think it was because I understood his struggles. Being Lord Jekia’s adopted son wasn’t easy for him. It always struck me as odd how some looked down on him, despite his father Sage’s prestige.”

“I think it was mostly due to Lord Jekia’s status and the fact that Rin was a twin to Lord Jekia’s son,” Nanash mused. “It always seemed strange to me how that was allowed to happen, but I’ve seen the good in it too. They balance each other out well.”

“They do,” I agreed. I decided to share what I’d learned. It wasn’t like Nanash could spread the news. “I found out from Selenia that Luna is expecting.”

Nanash’s eyebrow shot up in surprise. “Really? Do you know when she’s due?”

“About five months from now, according to what I was told. They’re keeping it quiet for now, with everything still settling down after the incident at the Matchmaking House.”

“That makes sense,” Nanash nodded. He fell silent for a moment before continuing. “How are you handling this? You used to have feelings for Rayne, and it’s unlikely you’ll ever have a child with Navine.”

I exhaled slowly, maintaining my honesty. “I had mixed feelings at first. I think it was more about the latter. I’m happy for them, but I can’t help but wonder if I might want that someday. It’s strange for me. I’ve never really thought about it. I was content being the last of my kind.”

“But you know that if you had a child with Navine, their bloodline would be more Dragon than Faerie. The stronger bloodlines always dominate.”

“True. I’ve considered that.”

“But you’re not jealous of Luna?” Nanash asked.

“Not at all,” I reassured him. “My mixed feelings are more about me trying to make sense of everything. I know it’ll get easier with time. A lot has happened, so it’s normal for me to feel this way.”

Nanash gently held my hands, offering a comforting smile. “You’re a strong Faerie, Raelina, and I have nothing but respect for you. I hope you know that we all worry about you—all of us who love you. Can I offer you some advice?” he asked.

“I’m listening. What is it?” I asked.

“I think the best way for you to come to terms with your past is to confront the darkest part of it. I suggest you visit the remains of the Sun Fae village.”

His suggestion caught me off guard, leaving me a bit confused. “Why do you think that would help?”

“Because I believe it would give you perspective and allow you to close that chapter of your life. I doubt you’ve been back there since everything happened. Avoiding it might hinder you in the future, especially now that you know about Dominick and Navine’s involvement,” Nanash explained.

“Tell me the truth, Nanash,” I implored. “Did you really not know that Navine knew about the attack before you did?”

Nanash shook his head. “No, I didn’t, and I admit it still bothers me that he didn’t act on it. But if you can forgive him, then so can I. I learned long ago that being happy in the present is more important than dwelling on past sorrows.”

His words were profound. I doubted anyone would expect such wisdom from a Snake. But then again, Nanash was unlike any other Snake I knew. I was certain of that.

“I’m with you on this, and I’m open to the idea if Navine is willing to take me,” I said, wrapping up our conversation.

“I don’t see a problem with it. It might even be beneficial for me to confront it directly,” he replied.

Our eyes drifted to the entrance of the room where Navine stood. I wondered how long he’d been there, eavesdropping on our conversation. He had a knack for blending into the background when he wanted to.

“So, you’re admitting that you’re still carrying a lot of guilt and want to make things right,” Nanash observed.

“I can’t deny that,” Navine replied, sauntering over to us. “Are you thinking about going back there too, Nanash?”

“No. I visited shortly after everything happened. I don’t see any reason to go back. I’ve made peace with them,” Nanash confessed.

“I’m sure they’ve forgiven you, just like I have,” I said, wrapping him in a warm hug. “You’ve been my friend from the start, and you were there for me that night. I’m so grateful you’re in my life.”

“And I’m grateful you came into mine. You were my first friend, and I consider you family. I’ll always be here for you,” Nanash vowed.

“I’m glad to hear that,” I said, slowly pulling away from him to face Navine. “If it’s okay with you, can we visit my old village? I’d like to see it one last time.”

Navine glanced at the clock on the wall. “I suppose we could go now. We have a few hours before sunset, and if I remember correctly, it’s not too far from here.”

“Are you sure you’re up for it today? We’ve already had a long journey to and from Lord Jekia’s. We could wait until tomorrow if you’re tired,” I suggested.

“I’m good to go now. I think it might be good for me too,” Navine reassured me.

“He knows his limits, and I’ve never known him to lie to you,” Nanash chimed in, standing a little taller. “I’m going to go hunting while you two are away. Should I expect to see you in a few hours?”

“Most likely. We might be a little late, but not by much,” Navine replied.

“All right then. Stay safe, both of you.”

Nanash gave me a soft smile, gently touched my cheek, and then left.

Once he was gone, I turned to Navine. “You don’t have to push yourself for this. We can wait until tomorrow.”

“I know, but I’m ready. I think it might be good for me too, since it’s been so long,” Navine said.

“Okay. If you’re sure, let’s go now so we have plenty of time,” I conceded.

I wasn’t entirely convinced he was okay with this, but arguing wouldn’t change his mind. I could see the determination in his eyes. Maybe this would be therapeutic for both of us.

The sun was setting as we left, casting long shadows over the land. The air was cooler, but not uncomfortably so. As Navine had said, it only took us about an hour to reach the site of my old village. Despite the years that had passed, I recognized it immediately. So much seemed unchanged.

We landed on the path just outside where the village had once stood. Navine set me down, and a wave of nostalgia washed over me. I took in the sight of the dirt path and the distant abandoned homes. The memory of that night returned with chilling clarity. I was wandering down this path, terrified and disoriented, desperate to escape but unsure of where to go. All I knew was that I had to reach another village for help.

Navine’s hand on my shoulder brought me back to the present. “Are you sure you’re okay with this?” he asked.

“I’m fine,” I said, taking a deep, calming breath to push the memory away. “I can do this. I just needed a moment to collect myself.”

Navine took my hand, intertwining his fingers with mine. “You’re not alone. I’m right here with you.”

His words comforted me, giving me the strength to move forward and face the remnants of the village where I’d spent the first five years of my life.

The buildings were still upright, but time was beginning to leave its mark. Grass and vines had started to creep up the walls, through the broken windows and open doors. As I looked around, memories flooded back—memories of that fateful night and all the times before it. This place had once been a haven for my kind, a place of joy and tranquility. Now, it stood as a haunting reminder of a past that was once beautiful.

Navine and I paused when we reached a small house at the end of the road. Despite its broken windows, grimy bricks, and missing front door, I would have recognized this place anywhere. It was a mere shadow of its former self, but it was still my home.

“I used to live here,” I murmured.

Navine glanced at the house and then down the road. “This is where you ran from that night. You must have covered quite a distance to reach where Jekia found you,” he observed.

“I didn’t realize I had run so far,” I confessed. Gently, I withdrew my hand from his and moved toward the doorway. “Will you come with me? I want to see the inside.”

“Of course.”

Stepping into my childhood home felt surreal. The interior was shrouded in shadows, with the only light filtering in through the windows. The broken furniture and other debris had been cleared away, leaving behind dark stains on the floors and walls. Time had turned them black, but I knew they were once deep, crimson bloodstains.

I navigated through the kitchen and dining room to the den, halting when I noticed the partially open door under the stairs. This was the place my mother had hidden me that night. I felt an irresistible urge to go over there.

The door didn’t make a sound as I slowly pushed it open, peering into the small space. It was almost empty now. I thought I remembered blankets and various herbs, but there was no trace of them.

“The ones who came after must have cleared everything out,” I concluded.

“Is that where you hid?” Navine’s voice broke my train of thought.

I sat up, turning to see him standing near me. “Yes,” I replied, my gaze returning to the small space. “My mother tucked me in here with blankets and herbs and told me not to come out, no matter what I heard. I only emerged when everything went silent for a long time.”

I exhaled deeply. “I often wonder what would have happened if I had stayed in here until help arrived. Would the remaining lycan have found and killed me? Or would I have been spared the horror of what I saw?”

Navine moved to stand behind me, placing a comforting hand on my shoulder. His eyes were soft when I looked up at him. “It’s best not to dwell on those questions. Trust me, I know,” he advised.

“You’re right. There’s no point in wondering about it now, is there?” I allowed him to help me up, taking one last look around before we exited through the kitchen and back door.

I followed the path that my dream had shown me, leading to the trees that bordered the village. “I remember now. This is where I used to meet Nanash when I was a child.”

Next, we made our way to the area where the Sun Fae had been laid to rest. I had heard about this place from others, but this was my first visit. The nearby towns and villages had come together to give my sect a proper burial.

Lord Jekia had assisted them and attended the ceremony, but he hadn’t brought me along because I was too injured and scared to return. The burial site was located at the far end of the village, in a small field encircled by trees.

In accordance with Fae tradition, the bodies were cremated and buried together. Several large quartz stones marked the site, inscribed with the Sun Fae language. The stones bore the names and the date of their death, along with a prayer for their peaceful rest in the afterlife.

As I stood there, running my fingers over the inscriptions, I felt a sense of peace. It was as if I could feel the love of my parents and sect once again. My soul felt more at ease than I ever thought possible in this place.

I wasn’t alone. They were still watching over me, welcoming me as I finally paid them a visit. Navine stood next to me, his eyes closed as he touched the stone.

“I’ve waited far too long to come here and apologize. Please allow me to do so now,” he whispered.

“Navine, they don’t blame you. If they did, this place wouldn’t feel so serene,” I reassured him.

“Do you sense them too?” he asked.

“Are we really feeling them?” I questioned. I had always assumed it was just my mind’s way of comforting me.

“Yes, it is them,” Navine confirmed. He moved away from the stones, the wind gently swirling around us, causing the vibrant green grass to sway. “In the afterlife, souls aren’t confined or restricted, especially when they’ve found peace. Close your eyes—you’ll feel them too.”

I couldn’t help but give it a try, closing my eyes and tuning into the silence around us. After a few moments, I could have sworn I felt my mother’s embrace and heard her soft whisper in my ear. “It’s okay now, Raelina. Live on and find happiness.”

Tears streamed down my face as I opened my eyes. She wasn’t physically there, but I was certain she had been there, along with my father and the others. For a fleeting moment, I had a vivid image of them standing around the trees, all smiling and waving at me.

Navine lowered his head, the wind circling him as he closed his eyes and spoke to them. “I deeply regret not helping you when I had the chance. I hope you can forgive me and bless my commitment to take care of Raelina. I’ve made mistakes, but I promise never to repeat them. I’ll do everything in my power to ensure her happiness.”

There was no tangible response, but the atmosphere was enough to confirm that his words were accepted. Within moments, it felt as though they had all vanished, leaving us alone once again.

I moved to stand in front of Navine, holding my hands out to him. “You see, they’ve forgiven you, and so have I. I’m sure your brother and Rosaline have forgiven you too. Can you stop blaming yourself now?” I asked.

“I guess there’s no point in holding onto that guilt, is there?” Navine conceded.

“Absolutely none,” I confirmed. I glanced up at the sky, now tinged with red as the sun began its descent. “I think this is enough for both of us to let go. It’s been a long day. Why don’t we head back?”

“It certainly has been,” Navine agreed. He lifted me up, resting his head against mine as I wrapped my arms around him. “I’m grateful you’re here with me, Raelina. I fully intend to keep my promises to you.”

“I know you will, and I’ll always be here with you too,” I promised in return.