Total pages in book: 21
Estimated words: 19262 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 96(@200wpm)___ 77(@250wpm)___ 64(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 19262 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 96(@200wpm)___ 77(@250wpm)___ 64(@300wpm)
I spurred on the horse and held onto Leo, whispering words of encouragement and love into his ear. It wasn’t long before we reached our destination; the battlefield where I was gravely injured so long ago. Now it was the life of my fated one which hung in the balance.
I slid onto the ground and took Leo into my arms, carrying him to the only tree in the open field. It was tall and twisted, with beautiful pink flowers which hung on weeping branches. It was in the very spot where I saw Thayla for the first time; she planted it there as a symbol of her promise to me.
I gently laid Leo in the grass on his side, making sure not to further his injury. I lifted my eyes to the sky and cried out, “Thayla, please hear my words! I need you now! My fated love is dying. Please do not forsake me!”
Tears streamed down my cheeks as I looked upon Leo; his skin was even paler than normal, and his breaths were shallow and few. I stroked my hand through his hair and along his cold cheek.
A low groan sounded from his now snow white lips, and I feared it was his last breath. I shook my fist at the sky and shouted, “Thayla!” with fear and anguish mixed in my desperate cry.
I gasped when a bright light shone before me, illuminating the night sky. I cast my eyes upon Thalya herself and hope bloomed within my heart.
“Goddess, you’re here!” I exclaimed, and motioned to Leo. “Please save him. Please don’t give him to me just to take him away.”
Her lips curled into a gentle smile. “I know your fear comes from love, but you must not doubt my promise. I am true to my word; you will share your life with this man.”
My whole body sagged with both shame and relief as she reached down and plucked the arrow from Leo’s body. She covered the wound with her hand, and a soft light emitted from her palm. After a few moments, she pulled her hand away, and I could see that his skin was mended, and that Leo had his very first scar. It made him even more beautiful.
Leo stirred and I placed my hands on his cheeks just as his eyes opened up. “Ansel?” he asked in a weak voice, and more tears flowed as I nodded my head.
“I’m here, my prince.”
Leo’s eyes widened when he saw the other figure standing next to us. Before I could explain who it was, he guessed, “Thayla?”
“It is I,” she replied with a smile.
“You saved me?” When she nodded, Leo climbed to his feet and captured her in a hug before jumping back. “I’m so sorry, I am probably not supposed to touch a goddess.” He dropped to his knees and bowed his head.
Thayla blinked before a quiet chuckle left her lips. I didn’t know that it was possible for a goddess to laugh, but leave it to my lover to make it so. “Please rise, young prince.”
Leo did as she asked, and said, “I’m also sorry that I’ve not spoken to you until now. I did not know about you, but now I’m grateful for everything you’ve given to me.” He looked over at me with a smile and I took his hand. Now that he was safe, all I wanted to do was touch him.
“You’re welcome,” Thayla answered. “And I have brought grand news.” She pointed to the horizon, where the first glimpse of the rising sun could be seen. “Three moons have passed, and Maldor has taken another sacrifice.”
I knew what that meant; the evil god had taken the life of the king and queen in Leo’s place. I studied his face for any sign of sadness or disappointment, but I found none.
“You are no longer in his sights,” Thayla continued. “And you are now the rightful ruler of the kingdom.”
My heart swelled with pride, and I bowed my head to him in a sign of respect. He was now my king, and I would follow him anywhere.
“I’m glad to hear that I’m no longer being hunted,” Leo began, “But I know nothing of being a ruler. And to be honest, I don’t think I want to be a ruler. The kingdom doesn’t even know I exist. Is there anyone else who could take the throne?”
Thayla flashed a knowing smile. “Although you would be a great king, I understand that it is not your desire. Your heart is set on exploring this great land, am I correct?” He answered with an excited nod. “As far as the villagers know, the royal bloodline is broken. It will be on my authority that a new king is appointed. Do you have anyone on your mind?”
“I don’t know many people,” Leo admitted, “But there is one man who has shown me great kindness. He has a good heart and he follows your guidance. His name is Fagen.”