A palace of death and gloom. How wonderful.
"Seems a rather ironic name."
I turn towards Arden with an arched brow. The Queen wraps her arms around her middle. Sadness creases her lovely face.
"This was my betrothed's kingdom of Goldren. It is where the first obsidian tower appeared."
I wish the ground would swallow me whole.
"I—I'm sorry, Arden. Truly."
Moisture beads in her eyes.
"They were peaceful people. Unprepared for such an attack. Their powers came from the sun, and when the towers began to blot it out, they had no recourse. It consumed everyone quickly. There was no time to warn the rest of the realm."
My hand finds her shoulder, squeezing it gently.
"The royal family was first," she breathes. "Then the Void laid siege to their kingdom, reaping the souls of all in its path. My parents came to aid, but they too were swiftly overwhelmed and lost to the darkness."
Sliding my palm down her back, I trace over the tips of her wings. Arden shudders, stepping into my body. My heart warms as she absorbs my comfort. She’s endured more pain than anyone ever should. I’m in awe of her strength.
Tracing the delicate slope of her shoulder, I delight in her soft moan
"We should make camp. Your magic will protect us. The Void's fortress is in the ruins of the old palace. At dawn, we will face it," she says.
I nod but don't remove my hand.
Arden looks up at me, and something shifts between us. Our connection has deepened. I can feel her, not just physically beside me but in my heart. The imprint of her touch is seared into my bones.
After living for decades with my magic as a gnawing, thrashing beast, it’s unsettling to feel it at peace. In herpresence, it is not an all-consuming rage that seeks to destroy. It practically purrs as she wields it.
"Can you take more?" I grin, tugging on one errant curl. "My magic, I mean."
Dark green sweeps over her lovely face as her teeth sink into her lip.
"I—I suppose I could try."
Letting her go, I extend my arms wide.
"Tell me where you want me, Queenie."
Arden’s smile is the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.
"Sit," she commands.
I sink down onto the plush grass.
With my magic strengthening hers, she was able to cleanse us off after healing my wounds. I feel fresher than I have in days. The grass stains on Arden's feet and knees have been wiped away. She sparkles like a polished gem.
Her scent is richer than before. I'll be hunting for it on the wind for the rest of my life.
"Magic resides in our hearts,” she explains. “I need you to remove your shirt."
"Thank the gods."
Arden rolls her eyes, but her indulgent smile stretches.
I shed my mended shirt and toss it into the grass. Trying not to flex my muscles, I hold my breath as Arden shuffles closer on her knees. My breath catches as she places her palm on my chest.
