Character List

Prince Kenjra Allonos of Asadia

Jennifer Williams of Earth

Queen Romuida of Asadia

King Eanuu of Asadia

Prince Belonoth Allonos of Asadia

Princess Maelya Allonos of Asadia

Princess Jania of Ethoria

King Thian of Ethoria

Prologue

Two brothers that looked to be in their twenties faced each other just outside a miniature battle ring inside of a courtyard. Each held a sword in their hands. The older of the two was dressed in black Asadian armor and the other in white.  The armor consisted of a jumpsuit with the Asadian flag stitched into the upper sleeves. It was the strongest armor, however. The enchantments laced in the fabric allowed the wearer to withstand fire, an arrow, even a cut from the finest sword.

Kenjara, the younger, stared into his brother’s ice cold eyes with a look of determination. Belenoth’s facial expression was stoic as usual. The small breeze ran through the courtyard, rustling his light golden blonde hair. Belonoth’s sword came alight with blue fire; his equally light blue eyes came alive. His muscular build and innate power would intimidate even the bravest of men.

“Little brother, must we really go through this again? You have never been able to defeat me. I tire of these continuous battles that end in your defeat,” Belonoth taunted.

Kenjara gripped his sword in his hands tighter and gritted his teeth. His chestnut hair covered his midnight blue eyes. He knew that he was no match for his brother, although their size and build were similar, his brother’s magic abilities surpassed his greatly. “There is a first time for everything, brother!” He moved his sword into position. “Today is that day.”               

“AHH!” Belonoth screamed as he charged towards Kenjara, who didn’t waste any time in meeting his brother in the center of the ring. The battle raged between the two, Kenjara struggled to keep up with his brother. Every strike Belonoth made was heavy and forceful.

Out of the corner of his eye, Kenjara could see an older gentleman walking in their direction. He was dressed in a black suit with a long tailcoat. White gloves adorned his hands and two white towels rested on his left arm. He bowed at the two brothers respectfully.

“Your Highnesses, the King and Queen wish to speak with you at once. They would like for you both to meet them in the thrown room.” Tasenath, the head servant of the palace said.

“Tell them that we will be with them soon enough. We are engaged in our sparring session.” Kenjara grunted out as he blocked his brother’s sword from impaling his head. Tasenath shook his head no.

“They said that the matter is quite urgent.”

“Just give us a couple of more minutes.” Belonoth insisted. He could see that his brother was tiring and was ready to end the battle.

“It concerns your mate, Prince Kenjara.” Kenjara immediately dropped his sword and faced Tasenth with worried eyes. He stepped out of the ring but not before Belonoth took the opportunity to strike on the Asadian flag, winning the match. “Hey, that’s not fair. I was distracted,” Kenjara protested.

“Distractions come on the battle field. You can not use that as an excuse, brother.” Belonoth said coldly before taking the towel offered by Tasenth. He wiped the few drops of sweat off his face before heading towards the thrown room.

“Your fighting ability has increased your highness. I have never seen Prince Belonoth sweat after one of his matches with you.” Tasenth noted with a smile. He gave the other towel he carried to the haggard prince who smiled as well.

“I know that one day I will be the victor.” Kenjara passed the towel back to Tasaneth. All traces of happiness were once again replaced with worry. “What about my mate? Is she all right?”

“I do not know your highness. His majesty only said to fetch you and your brother. It does not seem to be good news your highness. The king seemed troubled…”

Kenjara didn’t listen anymore and ran to the throne room as fast as his legs could carry him, slightly mindful of the castle servants that he all but trampled. He didn’t know what the problem could be but if his father was showing concern, then the situation was serious. He never once had seen his father show emotion, similar to his brother, so to hear that he was fearful worried the young prince.

Kenjara approached the large wooden to the throne room, winded from the run. He rested a hand on the Allonos family crest that was etched into the rich mahogany wood before pushing it open to reveal his frantic mother and levelheaded father and brother. Kenjara stepped onto the long plush royal red carpet that led to the jewel encrusted thrones his parents occupied. He passed the many guards that lined the carpet. All dressed in black Asadian armor, they bowed as he passed. The sun shone threw the glassless windows, casting light into the room in broad streams. It exposed the light dust particles while settling on the backs of the guards.

“What has happened to my mate?” Kenjara asked when he joined his brother in front of his parents.

His mother immediately quieted down before casting her large warm brown eyes upon her youngest son. She looked to her husband worriedly when he didn’t speak. His face was pale, drawn of all color. He had been that way since he heard the news.

“Your mate is in mortal danger, my son. We have just received news that the humans have learned that you are unmated and are scouring for her as we speak.”

Kenjara breathed a sigh of relief. The situation wasn’t as serious as he originally thought. His mate’s life was still safe for the time being.

“How did they find out that I was unmated? The only people that would be aware of this live inside the castle and no one has had contact with the humans since the war started, years before I was born.”

“We have a spy amongst our ranks, but that does not matter right now. I do not believe you understand the gravity of the situation, my son. The humans know that your mate is a human that is not of this dimension. They have already sent troops out to capture and kill her.” Kenjara’s father, King Eanuu, finally spoke.

“How is that possible; the humans have no way to travel inter-dimensionally!” Kenjara exclaimed. He dropped to his knees and shook his head in denial. “This is not happening. This is not happening. I stayed away from her for all these years to keep her safe. I haven’t seen her since I was a child.”

Queen Romuida stood from her throne and enveloped her son with her arms tightly. She didn’t know how he was able to last so many years without being near his mate, even so when he came into his inheritance six years ago. It was unheard of by anyone of their race to wait so long without bonding. Insanity would befall that person, shortly followed by death.

“Kenjara, there is no need for you to collapse like this. You had already planned to retrieve her; you will just have to do it earlier.”

“We must leave now if we plan to reach her in time.”Belonoth gripped his sword tightly. He gave a small nod to his brother, showing support.

Kenarith stood with the help of his mother. He stared into the encouraging faces of his family and decided that they were right. The situation could only get worse the longer he dwelled on it. His brother placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Let us take our leave.”

“How will you find her? You do not know what she looks like,” Eanuu asked doubtfully. “I will send a few our highest trained guards to escort you.” He motioned for the guards to gather but Kenjara raised his hand, signaling them to stop. The guards stared at the king with confusion but returned to their previous position due to a nod from the king.

“Do not worry,” Kenjara reassured his father, determination once again shone in his eyes. “I will know when I see her. It is instinctual, right mother?”

“Yes.” Romuida smiled.

“Besides, we do not need them following us. They will surely slow us down and make us an easy mark.” Belonoth said. He raised his hand and with a few swift movements, conjured a portal to the black dimension that housed his brother’s mate.

Asadian Nights: Chapter Two

“Who do you think it was that helped the humans with the inter-dimensional travel?” Kenjara asked after they arrived to the black dimension in a flurry of flames. They were just outside of town by some abandoned buildings. It was pitch black in the area that they were located but they could still see the city lights in the distance.

“I suspect that Tiraz.”

“The Dark Elf?” Kenjara questioned as he climbed over some rubble.

“Who else would use their enemy’s mate against them? The Dark Elves have always sought our power. They are using your mate and the humans to gain it. The Dark Elves are our true enemy not the humans.”

“But the humans have always been the one’s attacking us.”

“The humans aren’t a threat. They are just mindless little creatures that destroy everything that is different. If the Demons wanted to vanquish the beasts, we would have a long time ago. Our family has been too forgiving when it comes to those despicable creatures,” Belonoth said in distaste.

Demons have always held a dislike for humans since the first war, thousands of years ago after the humans waged war against them because the Demonic people were of a different breed. They were shape shifting creatures that had a humanoid form as wells as a demonic form. Their average life span outlasted the humans by thousands of years. Added to that was there unbelievable power of magic and strength. Even with the many differences between humans and demons, they managed to live in peace for many years. But the humans grew more fearful and greedy as time passed. Their peaceful existence was destroyed when the humans launched an attack against the most powerful demon country, the Asadian nation, and so began the first war.

Belonoth stopped suddenly and turned to face his brother with a grim expression. “You do know that you and your mate will encounter prejudice because she is a human. Her life will always be in danger.”

“I am aware but I believe in our people. They will not harm her in any way.”

“They will never stand for a human in the royal family.” Belonoth insisted.

“She is not just any human, she is my mate.” Kenjara said with certainty. “Besides, the Asadian Nation would not dare to touch a royal.”

“You are correct, An Asadian would not but the other demons might take offense to the induction. They were as equally outraged as us when we were first attacked.”

Kenjara remained silent. He knew that his brother spoke the truth but he didn’t want to acknowledge it. It seemed that everyone would be against his union with his mate. He just hoped that no one would act on their displeasure. The Asadian people could not afford to engage in war with another demonic country and possibly against its own people. “I do not wish to discuss this at this moment.”

 Kenjara resumed his walk towards the city. He sensed that his mate was near or at least within a hundred meters. A slight tingling sensation was flowing through his veins. “We do not have to travel long. I feel her presence in the near by building.” Kenjara pointed to what looked like a nightclub in the distance. The soothing jazz music could be heard from there position.

“Are you certain?” Belonoth questioned.

“Yes.” Kenjara answered while continuing his walk in the direction of his mate. By time they reached the entrance of the club. Both Kenjara and Belonoth noticed the stares from the humans of this dimension. They were still wearing their Asadian armor from their sparring session earlier. Belonoth immediately went to repair the situation by casting an illusion spell over there clothes but Kenjara grabbed his hand.

“We wanted to be inconspicuous. Casting magic in front of humans would ruin our plans.”

“We will be noticeable no matter what I do.”

“Yes, but at least this way people will only think of us as strange.”

Kenjara released his brother’s hand and entered the club that was called The Lounge.  He was immediately hit by a wave of smoke, created by the patrons’ cigars and cigarettes. Once his eyes adjusted he was able to see that it was filled with tables with guests that were drinking to their hearts content. The bar in the back of the club was over run with customers and the seats near by were already occupied. The only seats that were available were at the front of the club by a large stage with its red curtains drawn together.

 The tingling sensation that Ken felt earlier intensified as he and Belonoth made their way to the stage. They were stopped by a large man who had an equally large hand however. The man had the word ‘Bouncer’ written across a black tee-shirt that seemed too small for his large frame. The man frowned at them before speaking with a very deep voice. “This area is for VIP only. I suggest you take a seat back there.” He said while pointing back to the bar they passed.

Kenjara ignored the man and went to move past him but this time he was stopped by his brother. He looked back at his brother who shook his head no before pulling him in the direction of the bar. The lights began to dim and a steady beat from a guitar could be heard. Kenjara watched as the men in the club perked up in their seats and the women watched on in interest.  

“What’s going on?” Kenjara asked.

“She’s starting.” A drunken man beside him answered his question.

The beat that flowed through the club built anticipation as the patrons waited for the singer to begin. In the meantime, the men in attendance found pleasure watching the curvy silhouette of the woman as she slowly moved her hips along with the rhythm of snapping fingers of the audience. Kenjara had the feeling that the woman was his mate, the person that he had been looking for. A voice filled the room and entranced Kenjara with its sultriness. 

Never know how much I love you
Never know how much I care
when you put your arms around me
I give you fever that's so hard to bear

Belonoth watched his brother curiously. The song of one’s mate greatly affected an Asadian male. Kenjara’s eyes were akin to someone who was slowly being seduced by his mate. They were glazed and darken and his expression held the fierceness of the unmated that have already received their inheritance.  Belonoth hoped that his brother would be able to contain himself until they returned to their dimension. An Asadian in their demonic form would not bode well.

You give me fever
When you kiss me
Fever when you hold me tight
Fever
In the morning
Fever all through the night

The spotlight turned on, revealing the singer’s beauty. Kenjara never imagined that the young girl that he seen several years ago could blossom into the gorgeous creature before him. She was of an average height for a human woman. Her curvy body was enhanced by the tight bodice of the black shimmering gown she wore. Her shimmery black thick hair swayed around her as she moved her shoulder about. What caught his attention above all else was her skin complexion. It was the color of chocolate, a rarity in Asadia.

Sun lights up the day time
moon lights up the night
I light up when you call my name
and you know I'm gonna treat you right

you give me fever
when you kiss me
fever when you hold me tight
Fever
In the morning
Fever all through the night

She surveyed everyone around the room and smiled with her eyes as she walked down the steps of the stage and into area that contained the seated audience. She made her way towards the bar, lightly touching the shoulders of random men as she went.  Kenjara felt a prick of jealously but soon realized that his mate was only playing with the other males.

Everybody’ got the fever
That is somethin’ you all know
Fever isn’t such a new thing
Fever started long ago

Romeo love Juliet
Juliet she felt the same
When he put his arms around her
He said Julie baby your my flame

She turned her attention to Kenjara and for the first time he was saw the glow in her large brown eyes that held such confidence and power that it rivaled his mother’s in intensity. She stared into his eyes as if she could see right into his soul. She smirked at him as if she knew something. When she came within distance she sat on his lap and touched his cheek softly before continuing.

Now give me fever
When were kissin
Fever with that flame in you
Fever
I'm a fire
Fever yeah i burn for you

Captain Smith and Pocahontas
had a very mad affair
When her daddy tried to kill him
She said daddy oh don't you dare

She tried to get up but Kenjara wrapped his arm around her waist and held on tight. She looked at him questioningly but didn’t resist. Instead she snuggled closer to him. She massaged his ears before hovering her lips over his. Just when Kenjara thought he was getting the kiss that he had been dying for since her saw her lovely full lips, his mate moved to the side and placed a soft kiss on the corner of his mouth. Although it wasn’t the kiss that he wanted, it truly set him aflame.

He gives me fever
With his kisses
fever when he holds me tight
Fever
I'm his misses
Daddy won't you treat him right

His mate slipped away from him when he became temporarily distracted from the kiss. She made her way back towards the stage, switching her hips as she went. When she stood on top of the stage once again she gave Kenjara a small wink.

Now you listened to my story
Here's the point that I have made
Chicks were born to give you fever
Be it fair and have a sense of game

They give you fever
when you kiss them
Fever if you really learned
Fever
Till you sizzlen
But what a lovely way to burn, oh baby

But what a lovely way to burn, yes honey
But what a lovely way to burn, ooh ~
But what a lovely way to burn

The curtains stage closed and the spotlight went out as soon as she sang the last note. Kenjara looked beside him at Belonoth as soon as he regained the breath that he hadn’t known that he was holding. As soon as he relaxed a dark feeling came over him. It was like someone with great power, with great darkness had entered the vicinity.

Kenjara felt like his breath was leaving his body once again but not from the passion he felt for his mate but from the evil entity. A loud crash from the club’s front doors caused the patrons alarm. The brothers looked at each other sharply before running in the direction that they had last seen his mate.

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“Who the hell was that guy holding onto you back there? I thought we were going to have to call the bouncers in Jennifer.”

“So did I.” Jennifer agreed with one of her co-workers as she pulled her hair into a sloppy bun. She was in the dressing room with several of the performers of the lounge, all women.  The dressing room was cluttered with costumes and make-up. It amazed Jennifer everyday that she came to work that they had room to enter the dressing area. “I wasn’t sure what I was supposed to do. I’ve never been in that type of situation.”

“You’ve never been in that type of situation before? That happens to you every night.” Kelsey said. The tall blue eyed blonde sat on top of the dresser. She was dressed in a tight floral burlesque costume for her fan dance number that was up in a few minutes. 

“This time was different.”

“What was different? Was it the jumpsuit he was wearing? He looked like he came out of a sci-fi show or something.” Another girl named Annabelle asked from beside Jennifer. The red head was dressed in a banana costume reminiscent of Josephine Baker. Annabelle and Joanie, a valley girl, were doing a duet together as a way to praise the famous dancer.

“That was different but that wasn’t it. I really don’t know what it was about him.” Jennifer thought long and hard but could not pinpoint the exact reason why she did not feel the need to call in the bouncer. Any other guy that tried to touch her like that would have been escorted out in the heartbeat. She should have had him removed but she couldn’t.

“I do.” Joanie interjected. “That guy was hot, movie star hot. That’s a rarity at The Lounge.”

“I wouldn’t go as far as to say that handsome men haven’t graced us before. I’ve…met a few of them.” Kelsey said. Jennifer and the other girls coughed inconspicuously. It was well known that Kelsey didn’t just meet men. She went through more men in a day than Madonna did on stage. Kelsey was a bona-fide hoe, a woman that should be kept far away from any married or committed man because she would definitely try to steal them away.

“It didn’t have anything to do with his look, per se. It was his eyes. They were so…”

“Gorgeous!” Annabelle Suggested.

“Intense. It was liked he was harboring a need for me, more than the sexual level.” Jennifer thought’s drifted back to the memory of when she stared into his eyes. She hadn’t meant to look at him but when she did he immediately pulled her into him. Before she knew what she was doing, she was sitting on his lap. Jennifer’s mother must be rolling in her grave at her actions, she suddenly felt sick.

10 years ago when she was 11 years old she got into a car wreck with her mother. Jennifer survived the accident but her mother did not. She was only 33 when she died. Jennifer blamed her self, even though her father told her otherwise. If she hadn’t begged her mother to take her shopping, they would have never gotten into the accident. If she had stayed home and been happy with the hand me downs that she received from her sister, everything would be fine. It was her fault that her mother died and she would have to live with it forever.

“I don’t want to talk about this anymore. It’s not that important, anyway.”

The girls sighed sadly before applying their make-up for the upcoming performances. Jennifer slipped out of her gown and placed it on the rack that was at the back of the dressing room. She went to grab her clothes but stopped when the door flew off its hinges with aloud bang. The bouncer that had been guarding the door was sprawled on the floor and the guys that were standing over him were the same men that the girls had been talking about. Before Jennifer could even blink an eye, the dark haired one grabbed her hand and she was pulled to the back door of the dressing room and out into the alley.

“What the hell are you doing?” Jennifer screamed as she tried to wiggle herself free of his hold. She was scared. Two men just broke into the dressing room and dragged her off without a second thought. Now they were running as if someone was chasing them into the abandoned factories that were 200 ft away from The Lounge. “Hey, let me go now. I promise that I won’t call the cops. Just LET ME GO!”

The brothers ignored Jennifer’s screams for her freedom. They had lost whoever, or what ever had been chasing them but that didn’t mean that they wouldn’t be discovered. If Kenjara could sense the Dark Elf then there was no doubt in his mind that Tiraz could sense them as well. “We need to hurry.”

“You’re right.” Belonoth said.

“Wait! Please don’t kill me! I don’t even know you. What ever I did—”

“You did not do anything to offend us.” Kenjara said. “We are not going to kill you.”

Jennifer sighed in relief but her eyes soon widened as an idea entered her mind. They didn’t bring her to the abandoned factories to kill her but they would definitely rape her.  Jennifer closed her eyes tightly and waited for the brutal assault. Her heart was pounding in her chest. Kenjara wrapped his arms around her body, just underneath her chest. She felt life she was being engulfed in flames and fainted from her intense fear.

Chapter Three

Inside a large room, surrounding a grand round table, where ten men that included The King of Asadia, his two sons as well as the King’s advisors for the troubles that has been fallen the country since the start of the war.

“Your highness, The Bridge connecting the east village to the remaining sectors of the kingdom has been seized by the humans. A trade convoy has not been able to deliver the people of Esciba their food supply and other vital necessities for several days.”  Head Advisor DaeJac paused for a moment before taking a deep breath. “In short, the people in Esciba will starve soon if we do not solve this dilemma with urgently.”

The room was quiet as everyone waited for the king’s response. Kenjara watched as his father took in the severity of DaeJac’s words. His eyebrows were drawn together as he massaged his chin. “Have the humans made any demands? Are they open for negotiations?”

“Other than—than the usual ca—call of surrender, no your majesty, they are not op—open to negotiations,” King Eanuu’s youngest advisor Trius responded nervously. He was the youngest advisor ever appointed to any king as well as the most easily rattled. It did not help him that his father was the head general of the army, General Midigain of Esciba. They hailed from the small town that was currently experiencing the greatest turmoil.

Kenjara found the contrasts between father and son to be very interesting. Trius was a short, medium build man with long scraggily dirty blonde hair and brown eyes that expressed his naivety. His father on the other hand was a large muscular man with short black hair, piercing blue eyes and an intimidating demeanor.

“Have they made any threats to the people of Esciba? Have they shared their plans for the village?”

“No, your majesty,” said DaeJac. “I believe we should send some of our men to the village to handle this situation quickly and quietly. We do not want the people of Asadia up in arms over this minute situation.”

There was a small grunt from Midigain. It was obvious that he didn’t take kindly to DaeJac calling his hometown’s situation minute.  King Eanuu could see that he wanted to share his opinion with the other heads and the King himself was curious about what Midigain had to say. He was, after all, the most successful general that the people of Asadia had seen in over a century.

“What do you believe we should do, Midigain? This is your area of expertise.”

“I agree with DaeJac. We should send a small team of our best warriors, regain control of Esciba and those who dare threaten us should be brought to Mador prison where they will be interrogated for information of the humans’ next plans of action.”

“I disagree, that plan is premature. We do not know how many humans reside in Esciba or what weapons they are equipped with,” Kenjara interrupted. “It’s obvious to me that the weapon that they have in their possession is quite powerful, powerful enough that the village people are not able to protect themselves against the humans.”

“Do you not have faith in the soldiers of Asadia?” questioned Midigain.

“That is not the case. I have all the faith in the world in the men that fight in the name of Asadia. I do not, however, under estimate my enemies. That is a very dangerous way of thinking.”

“It’s even more dangerous to overestimate an enemy. We know that the humans have no strength. So wiping them out should be relatively easy.”

“Exactly, so why aren’t the villagers able to rid those vile creatures themselves? The people of Esciba also have demonic power, perhaps not as great as ours,” Kenjara conceded, “But enough to defend themselves from such an attack.”

“And what do you believe we should do young highness?” Midigain asked mockingly. Kenjara ignored the man’s rude behavior and spoke to the other men around the round table.

“We should first infiltrate the besieged village to see how the people of Esciba are wavering. The soldiers on this mission should also ascertain the number of humans inside the village as well as what weapons they are using. With the help of Tiraz, the humans could be equal in strength to us. We should not take any chances.”

“It seems that your son will be a fine ruler, your majesty. He has the wisdom of his ancestors and your eldest son has the strength of many warriors. You have done a grand job with these two,” The eldest and most respected member of King Eanuu’s top advisors. Cijol was born before the war started. He was very tall with long white hair and an equally long beard. He dressed in old Asadian attire that consisted of a modest white gown and robe.

Cijol was also one of a few Asadians that knew what it was like to live in a world of peace. It made him one of the most important people in the world, not because of his age and wisdom but because his memories of Asadia’s golden years gave the people hope that peace could once again reign over Asadia’s lands.

“We thank you Cijol for your kind words and I agree with you Kenjara. Your approach is exactly what I had in mind therefore we will send our best infiltration unit to Esciba tomorrow morning and they are expected to report back to us by the end of tomorrow night, Midigain. You all are dismissed.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.” Midigain said reluctantly before giving a bow and exiting the room with the other men.  King Eanuu waited until everyone had exited the room, except for his two sons, to address Kenjara’s issue with his mate. No one knew about his son’s unmated status except for a few trusted palace workers and he did not want to compromise things by allowing more people into the equation. Belonoth closed the door behind Midigain before turning his attention to his father who kind expression had turned to one of worry.

“How is your mate Kenjara? I was informed that she fainted upon her arrival to the castle.”

“Yes, I am afraid that the excitement of our run in with Tiraz was too much for her. She is doing well, according to the castle physician.”

“That is grand news.” The king said as he stood from his seat and went to meet his two sons by the door, “When will you mate her? The times are growing more dangerous and we cannot have you fighting unmated. You and your mate’s life will be in danger otherwise.”

“I am aware Father and I do intend to complete the mating ritual as soon as possible but I cannot do that until she agrees to and that will take time.”

“I understand son but time is of the upmost importance.” The king sighed when his son nodded his head in understanding. “You should go see your mate now.”

“Yes father.” Kenjara gave a short bow before exiting the room.

The king turned his attention to his first born who had been quiet as usual. Belonoth has always been a man of a few words. “How has your mate, Princess Maelya, been doing?  I have not seen her for sometime now.”

“She is fine father. She had been busy caring for the people in the village. She has become fascinated with the orphanage in the center of town for the children that has lost there parents during this war.”

“It seems that she is ready to birth children.” The king knew the signs when a woman was ready to have children. One of them was immersing herself with the young people to feel the void while they waited for one of their own.

“Yes. She had made her intentions clear. I, however, do not believe that it is the right time to bring children into this world. It is far too dangerous. Neither her nor I will be able to care for the child properly.”

“Maelya seems more than capable to handle a child but I do agree. A child born during such turmoil is not for the best but I do believe that your mother will disagree.”

“Mother will understand. She did not want Kenjara and I involved in this war.”

“But she also wanted both of you around. She was experiencing a great pain and longing for children and believed that both of you brought happiness into the castle at a time when there was none and surprisingly, you did. You should think about this adequately before making a decision. Remember that this will not only affect you but your mate as well.”

“Yes father. I will give the situation more thought before making a final decision. I do not wish to upset my mate but I will do what I believe is best.”

“Good, then we should meet your mother in the dinning hall for breakfast.”

Belonoth nodded in agreement before following his father out of the room and into the corridor that led to his awaiting mother.

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The intense sunlight woke Jennifer from her sleep. She opened her eyes before closing it abruptly, blinded by the light. She thought back to what she thought was a dream and laughed a bit when she thought how ridiculous it was. “Demons, magic, superhuman strength? What did I drink last night?” She said to herself. She rubbed her eyes before stretching her hands over her head. When she finally opened her eyes she let out a loud scream when she saw an older looking gentleman at her bedside starring at her curiously.

“Who are you?” She asked as she pulled the bed covers over her body but stopped when she realized that she wasn’t in her night gown but in the clothes that she wore the previous night. She looked around the room and realized that she wasn’t in her home either. Everything seemed to be very expensive, far more than the amount of money she made at The Lounge, and the room was decorated in a medieval theme. “Where am I?”

The older man ignored her questions before walking out the room and closing the large double door behind him. Jennifer quickly got out of the bed and ran to the large oak doors after the man. She was terrified, thinking that she had been kidnapped. Jennifer didn’t know where she was or who she was with, or what they intentions were. She leaned against the door and heard the man’s foot steps getting further away. She placed her hand on the golden door knob that resided inside of a lion’s mouth. She wasn’t surprised when the door didn’t budge when she pushed it. What gave her a scare was the warning growl that came from the two tiny lion heads.

Jennifer yanked her hand away from the door before slowly backing away the animated door knobs. She ran in the opposite direction towards the stone arching window. She looked outside and was immediately hit with a large gust of wind. She was several stories above the ground; she couldn’t even see the ground, just a whole bunch of fog and clouds.

“What is going on? Where am I?”

“You are in Asadia madam, the greatest kingdom in the entire world.” A distinguished voice said from behind her. Jennifer turned around slowly before shrieking loudly. The creature before her was small and goblin-like with gray skin and a skinny body. Its ears twitched in different directions as it stared at her with its large black eyes. Its boney hand massaged the other as it smiled, baring it’s sharpened teeth. Jennifer suddenly began to feel dizzy and quickly sat on the bed. The creature’s smile became wider which only struck more fear in her heart.

“You’re not going to eat me are you?” She asked attentively. She spotted a coat of arms that had two swords mounted beside it. She was ready to make a made dash if she did not like its answer. The creature followed her eyes to the swords and quickly shook its head no.

“I am not going to harm you, Your Grace, I am merely a castle gorfain sent here to ensure your safety.”

“A gorfain?”

“A hybrid of a gnome and goblin.” The gorfain explained. “My name is Maiandingeir.”

“Can I call you Maian?” Jennifer asked after trying to sound out the name several times. The gorfain nodded its consent. “Are you a male or female?”

“MALE!” Maian shouted, insulted by the question.

 Jennifer covered her ears to protect them from the high pitch sound.”Alright, there is no need to shout,” Jennifer said after it was safe to lower her hands.

The creature looked shocked by its own response before scurrying over to Jennifer. He quickly got on his knees and tried kissing Jennifer’s feet. She backed away and lifted her feet onto the bed. The gorfain looked like it was about to follow but stopped as soon as his hand touched the mattress. “Please forgive me, Your Grace.  I do not know what had come over me.”

“It’s alright, just don’t shout again.”

“Yes, Your Grace.”

“What is this place again? I never knew such a place existed.” Jennifer said as she turned around to look out the window as something caught her eye. The scaly body was quite large. She could only distinguish large black wings, reminiscent to a bat’s. A loud growl followed by a feeling of intense heat was enough for Jennifer to decide that the creature outside the window was a dragon. “This place is right out of a fairytale. I must be dreaming.”

“You wouldn’t know about this place because you are not of this world which is the same for many of the people from here. Very few people have been granted the knowledge of multiple dimensions as a way to protect impure minded beings from trying to dominate another realm.” Maian explained. “The Allos family has protected Asadia for many generations but I fear that this war has become too much for King Eanuu to handle. The threat from the humans has become too great.”

“What are you talking about? What war?” Jennifer felt her stomach drop. The only thing that she could imagine that was worse than being trapped in a foreign land was if the foreign land was in the middle of a war.

“The war that has been waging for thousands of years, Your Grace.”

“Why do you keep calling me ‘Your Grace’? I’m not royalty.”

“You are the prince’s mate; therefore you are a princess of Asadia.”

“I hate to burst your bubble but I’m no prince’s mate. I don’t even know a prince. So why don’t you let me out of here?”

Maian tilted his head to the side curiously before he squint his eyes in confusion. “But the Prince brought you here himself. These are his chambers.”

“Look, Maian, I don’t know a prince from Adam so let me out of here, huh?

“I’m sorry your highness but I am under strict orders not to allow you to leave this room until the prince returns.”

“Look here you little—”

“Maiandingeir, what are you doing here?” A calm, soothing voice interrupted the start of Jennifer’s threat.

She looked in the direction of its origin and was surprised to see the man that was at the club the previous night except he was dressed in a black suit and white shirt. The light blue tie around his neck brought out his gorgeous baby blue eyes that sparked in the sunlight. Jennifer thought he looked very handsome.

“I asked Tasaneth to look after her until I return.”

“Yes, Your Highness. Tasaneth asked me to take over for him while he returned to his household duties. He said that since the princess is awake—”

Kenjara tuned out the gorfain and looked at his mate that was staring at him with a mixture of fear and curiosity. She looked just as beautiful as she did the previous night.  He turned his attention back Maiandingeir who was still rambling on. “It is alright, Maiandingeir. You may leave.”

“Yes, Your highness.” The gorfain bowed before making a quick escape.

Jennifer did not know whether or not to be relieved at the presence of a familiar face or terrified. The sight of a human was nice but this was the same human that kidnapped her and brought her to this strange place. She decided to be scared when the prince began moving towards her. “Don’t come any closer. I know self defense,” She warned.

“I will not hurt you. I could never bring you harm. You are, after all, my mate.”

“I don’t even know you.”

“There is no need to,” Kenjara tried to explain; “We were destined for each other the moment we were born.”

“Don’t give me that crap.” Jennifer stood off the bed and made her way to the coat of arms. The guy was very attractive but he also was crazy and she knew that she would most likely have to fight her way out. “Look, I don’t know who you are or what this place is or if this is even real but get me out of here.”

“You are in Asadia—”

“I’ve heard that from Maian.”

“Maian?” Kenjara asked in confusion.

“The goblin look-a -like that just left and I think that you all are crazy or rather I’m crazy for seeing a goblin look-a-like,” Jennifer said as an afterthought. She looked past Kenjara and saw what looked to be a fairy fly by, she started hyperventilating. “Oh my god, I am crazy.”

“Calm down, love.”

“Do not call me that!” Jennifer shouted she made a mad dash towards the opened door but Kenjara caught her easily. She struggled for a while but soon began to relax. Jennifer didn’t know if it was because she was tired or from the warmth that seemed to flow out of Kenjara and into her. She laid her head on his chest slowly as Kenjara began rubbing her back soothing. He tried to calm her down through their connection by sending her small bursts of energy.

“Everything is well, my love. So do not worry yourself. No one will hurt.”  Jennifer only nodded and continued to rest in Kenjara’s arms. She didn’t know how long they had been in that position with her hands lying lightly on his shoulders and his arms lying lightly on her back and her waist. She felt herself slowly drifting to sleep and just when she was about to Kenjara released his hold onto her.

“What are you doing?” Jennifer tried to hold onto Kenjara but he pulled her hands away and sat on the bed. Now that she was calm he thought it would be the best time to speak to her. If he waited until after the affects wore off then he may never get the chance again.

“I would like to speak to you.”

“About what?”

“You are my mate.”

“Your mate?”

“Yes.” Kenjara said as he took a seat next to Jennifer. “You and I were meant to be together. It is our destiny. As my mate you will be my better half, the other part of me that makes me whole.”

“It sounds like you are asking me to be your wife.”

“You could call a mate that except it is much more. I will be sharing my life with you and you with me. If you feel pain, I will feel pain. If you cry, I will feel your sadness, and if you smile I will feel your happiness and vice versa.”

“That sounds nice.” Jennifer said with a smile. She swayed a bit as the feeling of sleepiness was coming over her. Kenjara started to work quickly. He grasped Jennifer’s shoulders and forced her to look into his eyes. He hated to take advantage of her weakened state but he had no choice. His mate had become hysterical at the mere thought.

“I’m glad you like the idea because we will have to start the bonding process as soon as possible all you have to do is promise me that you will follow through on this no matter what. A person’s promise in Asadia is a binding contract.”

“I promise.” She mumbled before succumbing to the darkness.

Soon after Jennifer had fallen asleep, Kenjara lay next to her and watched as she slept. Her face was serene and her breathing mellow.  She was indeed the most beautiful creature that he had ever seen. Everything about her seemed to be different from him. They were night and day, and he loved her more because of that fact.  He leaned over down and kissed her gently on her forehead.

“You will definitely be a welcomed addition to this family and to my life.”

There was a soft knock at the door and he sighed before pulling away and sitting upright on the bed. “You may enter.”

Tasaneth entered. “Princess Jania of Ethoria has arrived and wishes to speak with you.”

Kenjara released an irritated growl at the mention of Princess Jania. She had been a thorn in his side, since they were children. She constantly begged for his attention and would throw a tantrum when he did not oblige her. The word troublesome was too good of a word to describe the Princess in his eyes. She was an invidious pest that held much animosity within her black heart. The only reason why he tolerated her presence for so long was because of the alliance between Asadia and Ethoria that had been established long before he was born.

“Could you kindly tell her that I am currently busy with important affairs?”

“She insists, Your Highness. She said that the matter that she wishes to discuss with you is of the upmost importance and it involves both Kingdoms. She is in the east garden.”

“Very well.” Kenjara reluctantly left his place next to Jennifer and went to leave the room. He paused for a moment when he was about to pass Tasaneth and said, “Have Clainne take my place at the Princess’ side. She shall wake soon and I do not want her without her familiar, especially if I am absent.”

He left the room and quickly made his way to the east garden also known as the mermaid garden because of the large mermaid fountain in the center of thousands of green and blue flowers. It was a sight to see and well known within the Asadian kingdom.

 He exited the castle and saw the Princess sitting on a marble bench adjacent to the majestic structure. She turned her head to him when he stood beside her. She was a very beautiful lady. Her chestnut brown hair shone tints of gold in the sun light. She was small in frame and stature, very delicate. Her eyes were an intense blue and her lips and cheeks were rosy pinks. Princess Jania was a very beautiful woman upon first glance. It was her cunning ways that kept many men at bay.

 Kenjara did not offer her any pleasantries as was the custom in many cultures. Instead he stared at her, waiting for her to speak. He could tell that she was upset by his actions but he didn’t care. He needed to return to his mate as soon as possible and explain things to her clearly. When she wakes up her state of mind will be much clearer, she won’t be nearly as frantic as she was earlier.

Jania stood from the bench and stared at Kenjara with a serious expression. “Rumors have surfaced in Ethoria that you are unmated, is it true?”

“…”He remained silent.

“I will take your silence as a confirmation that those tale bearings are indeed factual.”

“I did not confirm nor did I deny your accusations. You are reading too much into my actions.”

“Well, is it true or not?” Jania asked with annoyance.

“Why is it any of your concern?” Although Kenjara’s tone was nonchalant he was interested in the answer.  Princess Jania always had ulterior motives. What she was inquiring about was enough to cause suspicion.

The corner of her lip upturned as she said, “I have a proposition that I would like to offer you.”

“Any proposition that is tied to whether or not I am mated does not interest me.”

“But this proposition will solidify our kingdoms standing as allies. Even this does not interest you?”

Kenjara sighed impatiently, “This dance with words is unnecessary. Share with me your intentions now or I will have to regrettably call this meeting to an end. As you well know, I am very busy.”

She looked him over, silently studying him with her eyes.  The prince’s brusque stance alluded to his growing impatience. “Yes, it does appear to be that way. I guess I’ll have to get straight to the point. I want you to marry me and allow me to be your queen.”

=

“Not again,” Jennifer mumbled to herself when she came to consciousness.

 She was once again trapped within the Prince’s quarters but this time she wasn’t frightened, but angry and confused. She didn’t remember anything that occurred past the moment she tried to escape and on top of that she had a very painful headache. It was as if she just woke up from a bad hangover after blacking out from drinking too much.

“He is so dead when I see him,” She mumbled to herself as she stumbled out of bed. Her legs were very weak for a reason unknown to her but she surmised that it had something to do with the crazy prince that she had encountered earlier that day. At least she assumed it was the same day. There was no way of telling how much time had gone by since she was last conscious.

She couldn’t comprehend the idea that she was stuck in some mystical world, that her father was at home alone with no one to take care of him. He had been ill ever since the accident. It was almost as if he was slowly dying of heartbreak. Jennifer didn’t know what he would do if she never came home. He probably wouldn’t survive the loss.

She slowly made her way to the double oak doors. Hesitating for moment, she placed her hand on the knob that sat inside of the lion’s opened mouth. Unlike before the door knob didn’t emit any strange sounds or try to bite her hand off. She turned it and pushed the door open. The hallway just outside the room was empty and devoid of noise, there was no one in sight.

“Hello?” She called out hesitantly. “Is anyone there?”

There was no response, only more dead silence.

‘What the hell am I doing? This crap is right out of a horror movie,’ Jennifer thought to herself. She felt like someone was going to attack her at any moment. She was half right. The fairy that she saw wondering the hall early appeared in front of her suddenly from a circle of white light.

The fairy was very small, the size of Jennifer’s thumb to be precise. Her skin was tanned and her hair was the color of pink cotton candy. Her big almond shaped eyes were cerulean blue. She wore what looked like a green leaf as a dress and her sparkling white wings flapped frantically.

“Your Grace,” She greeted in a high pitch voice as she gave a clumsy bow. “I am Clainne, your familiar.”

“My familiar, what’s that?” Jennifer had heard the word before but she couldn’t remember its meaning.

“I will be your companion until you are able to generate one of your own or until the Prince produces one for you. I will help you with any task and educate you on our customs. You may think of me as your personal servant, Your Grace,” Clainne said as if she was reciting she something that spent time committing to memory.

“So you’ll help me do whatever I want?” Jennifer questioned.

“Yes, within reason of course.”

“Within reason,” She repeated. “I guess that doesn’t include helping me escape from this place, does it?”

Clainne shook her head apologetically. “Please accept my apologies, Your Grace. I have been put under strict orders by the Prince not to assist you with such matters.”

Jennifer frowned. “I thought that would be the case. Man, that guy is becoming a real pain. Well can you at least take me to him? He seems to be the only way that I can get out of this place.”

“Please forgive me, but his highness is currently in a meeting and asked not to be disturbed. He said that he would return to you the moment the conference has ended. He asked that you please remain in your room. The castle is a dangerous place. You shouldn’t wonder these halls alone.”

“You’re here with me aren’t you?”

The fairy could tell what Jennifer was thinking and she didn’t like it at all. Defying the Prince could be punishable by death. Then again, so could disobeying the Princess. She sighed and reluctantly said, “Yes, Your Grace but I advise against it. The Prince shall return at any moment and you shall have your audience with him then. If you leave now it will only cause more problems for you later.”

“Clainne—”

“Please wait for the Prince’s return,” Clainne begged.

Jennifer sighed before turning around and heading back into the room. Normally, she would have just pushed the fairy aside and wondered the castle halls, trying to escape but the fairy’s innocent face and delicate voice prevented her from doing so. Waiting for the Prince seemed to be the best option. She didn’t know her way around the castle or what other dangers were about the place. For all she knew there could be a bottomless pit just down the hall.

“Fine, I’ll stay.”

“Many thanks, Your Grace.”

 =

It took a moment for Kenjara’s shock to leave him. He truly didn’t expect her to ask for marriage. He was confused as to why she was the one propositioning him and not her father, the King. Her actions contradicted the Luminare way of being.  The women were never the ones to make such bold requests but then again Princess Jania was not known to follow rules—she made her own. He could admire that in a woman but not in Jania. At times she could be ruthless towards even her own people.

“My father wishes me to marry another but it is you that I want, Prince Kenjara. I feel a connection with you that I haven’t felt with any other. Also, with the brains of my people and the bronze of yours, there will be nothing that we can’t have. You can bring peace to many just by agreeing to wed me.”

He stared at her questioningly; he did not feel this connection of which she spoke and he knew that she was more than familiar with his people’s mating rituals.  “You are aware that unlike Luminare Elves, Demons have no choice when it comes to their life mate? I can no sooner choose the very people who birthed me.”

“Is that so?”

“Yes.” He said confidently.

 “What if I were to tell you that the scientists of Ethoria have been conducting tests? We have discovered a way to free Demons like you. You will have the ability to choose a life mate, not be appointed one.”

He glared. “Then I would have to ask you where did you obtain your subjects?”

“Do not fret,” Jania slowly moved away from Kenjara. She could feel his anger emitting from his body.  “The Luminare Elves did not cross into Asadian land. All of the test subjects were voluntary, of course.”

“Of course,” He repeated. “Even if that were the case I would not be able to accept your offer.”

Even though mating with Princess Jania would benefit him politically (The Luminare Elves innovations in science and weaponry were unprecedented) he would not be able to separate himself from his true mate. He would never be able to live with himself knowing the actions he took to win a war that he still believed could be won with diplomacy.

“Why?” Jania cried out as she launched herself onto the prince and held onto his armor tightly. She looked deep within his eyes and tried to convey the strong emotions that she felt for him. “I can see as the day is clear that you are unmated. You know how I feel about you. Why won’t you accept me?”

Kenjara grabbed Jania’s hands and removed them from his person. “My heart already belongs to another, whether I have met her or not. If I were to undergo the process of removing the connection I have with my mate, I still wouldn’t be able to reciprocate your feelings.”

“Prince Kenjara I—”

“Please do not approach me in this way again.” He bowed respectfully before returning to the castle, leaving Princess Jania behind to fume silently—promising to herself that she would make Kenjara regret this day.

=

In the center of town, Belonoth waited inside the royal carriage for his beloved, Princess Maeyla who was returning home after a long day at the orphanage. He watched silently as she approached the carriage. She looked like a fallen angel in her white and gold gown. Her onyx colored eyes, while dark in color seemed to shine brighter each time he saw her.  Maeyla’s long raven hair swayed in the wind walked. She was so graceful that many people believed that she walked on air.

She smiled in surprise when the footmen opened the carriage door and helped her inside. She immediately placed a kiss on Belonoth’s cheek and took hold of his hand while laying her head on his shoulder.

“I thought you would be too busy to escort me home, today.”

“Everything went smoother than I expected. Kenjara’s mate has been brought to the castle,” He whispered. He didn’t want his words to be overheard. The traitor had yet to be discovered and he did not want such information circulating in public. “He is expected to commence the mating ritual very soon, if not today.”

“I doubt that he would ever get her to agree so quickly. You did say that the girl was a human, and from a different dimension as well. It will be a while before she accepts the fact that she won’t be able to return home for some time. She has a whole family that she’s had to leave behind.”

“Why? It did not take you long to decide to bound with me.”

Maeyla lifted her head from Belonoth’s shoulder and looked up at him. “I am an Asadian. I knew that I would one day I would become your mate. I was just waiting for you to find me.”

She smiled before nudging Belonoth shoulder who just continued to stare at her with the same cold expression that he showed everyone. Maeyla was used to it. Her mate wasn’t comfortable with showing affection. Even a small smile was too much for him at times. She could count on her hand the amount of times that she seen him smile. The day that they first met, the day that completed the mating process and the day he was inducted into the Asadian Army. 

“This girl that was brought home knows nothing of our ways or even that we existed. She will need time to adapt.”

“Yes, I believe you are right. But I also know that my brother has ways of getting what he wants.”

Maeyla folded her arms about her person. “We shall see.”

Belonoth nodded “Yes we shall.”

=

Kenjara walked briskly to his sleeping quarters. His meeting with the princess had taken much longer than he had expected. He had hoped to return to her before she had awoken.

“I’m sorry that I kept you waiting, my love.” Kenjara said as he pushed opened the door.

Jennifer immediately got off the bed while being careful not to wake Clainne, who had fallen asleep on her shoulder. She gently cupped the fairy within her hands and placed her on the bed before straightening her clothes nervously and facing Kenjara.

“I don’t mind the wait as long as you let me go.”

“You know that I cannot do that. You are my mate and therefore—”

“You kidnapped me from my home, my life, my family and now want me to play house? I don’t think so. Take me home, now.” Jennifer demanded. She decided while she was waiting that she was not going to coddle the Prince. He may have been used to getting everything that he wanted but he wasn’t going to get her, especially since he went through such vulgar means. He literally clubbed her over the head and dragged her to his cave, just because his “cave” was a palace didn’t make it any less Neanderthal. She was not amused.

Kenjara frowned. “I cannot.”

“Why am I so important to you, now?”

“I do not understand your question.”

“You say that you have been aware that I was your mate for years. Why have you waited until this moment to get me? What has changed?”

“The Asadian nation is at war. Our enemies know that I am unmated and may use that against us. We brought you here for your own protection.”

Jennifer placed her hands on her hips. “I was doing just fine at home. Nothing life threatening has ever happened to me until I met you. In case you didn’t notice I have a life back home! I have a family, I have friends, I have a job that I happen to like! Did you once think about how this change would affect me?”

“Of course I thought about how you would be affected by my sudden appearance but your life is more important than any uneasiness that you may feel from this transition. I love you deeply.”

“Don’t say things like that. You don’t know me.”

“I’ve known you since the day I was born. I know everything there is to know about you and you will know everything about me once we complete the bonding process, when you become my consort.”

Jennifer’s eyes widened and her arms fell limp by her sides. “I—I never—Consort? I never agreed to be your anything.”

“It is obvious that you do not remember our agreement but I can assure you that such an agreement has been made and you won’t be able to leave Asadia until you fulfill it.”

Her eyes narrowed. “You tricked me! You got me to go along with that consort crap when you did that Jedi mind thing on me. I can’t believe you did that! You want me to trust you but you took advantage of me,” she accused.

“All I did was calm you. You were upset the last time we spoke and were not thinking clearly.”

                “I was thinking clearly alright! I was thinking that I wanted to get the hell out of here, like I do right now.”

                Kenjara sighed. “Fighting this is of little use. You made a promise and cannot leave until we are mated. Resisting will only prolong your stay.”

                Jennifer didn’t say anything. Instead she looked down at the fairy that was beginning to snore loudly, which was strange since the alarming sound came from such a small body.

She didn’t want to accept what he was saying as the truth but she had no reason not to believe him. He wouldn’t let her go freely.  She would just have to go along with him. At least, until, she found a way out of here on her own.

“Alright, what do I have to do?”