Elemental's Heart

by Ciara Lake

  “Thank you, goddess.”

  “I’m going with Cernunnos to your Joining Circle on Beltane Eve. I’m so looking forward to it. What a perfect time of year to start a new life together.” She entered the cave and sat down. “How come you’re not with your lover? Such a handsome man to leave alone.”

  She offered Terra her hand. When Terra’s hand touched hers, warmth flowed up her arm to her heart. It was as if the goddess’s touch healed something inside her. Her mood lightened.

  “I can tell we have similar powers. You’re a healer, and the plants and trees adore you.” She gently squeezed Terra’s hand before she released it. “Put your precious gift to good use, my dear. Think of me in your celebration of the gods, and I’ll bless you in your dedication to me in herbal as well as healing arts.”

  “Thank you, goddess. I’ll do as you suggest.” Terra sat back down in her chair.

  The warmth of the fire and the company made her heart content. She relished this new life among the supernaturals Aetius had revealed and exposed her to. She thought how sad it was that most mortals occupied the world in ignorance.

  They spent several hours chatting. Cernunnos and Airmid reminisced about days long past. They spoke of the days the old religions ruled and the people cherished nature. Listening to their conversation, Terra learned more about the Celtic people and their love for their gods. They talked for so long, the sun was disappearing and their fire glowed brighter.

  Terra yawned and stood up. “Goddess Airmid and great-grandfather, I’m going to return to Aetius now. I’ve been gone for too long.”

  “I think I should take you to him.” Cernunnos stood up. “I want to make sure you arrive safely.”

  Terra put her hand up to stop him. “No, please, I’m fine. I can manage.”

  “Are you sure?”

  Terra felt her face grow warm with embarrassment. “Yes.” She nodded. “I’ll think of his house I was visiting, and I’ll return there. It will be simple.” She shrugged.

  “Okay, if you think so. However, if you need me, please let me know.” He hugged her. “Otherwise, I’ll see you at Beltane. Now go and be happy with your love.” He grinned. “Young love is precious.”

  “Thank you.” She hugged him back. “I’ve enjoyed this time together and getting to know you better.”

  Airmid met her at the entrance of the cave. She hugged Terra too and kissed her cheek. “Go with the goddesses and be blessed.”

  “Thank you.” Terra left the cave. When she glanced over her shoulder, the cave was gone. It had completely disappeared, replaced by only trees in the forest. “That’s odd.”

  She continued toward the old oak and thought of Scotland as she entered the portal. On the other side of the boundary it was storming. Lightning lit up the darkening sky. The thunder boomed, rocking the earth beneath her feet. Within seconds, she was soaked through her clothes to her skin.

  The rain distracted her, making her unsure if she could flash without an issue. So, she decided to wait and to gather her thoughts. Not far from her was a copse of trees that created a shelter of sorts. She ran for it, appreciating the cover it could provide. The trees leaned closer, arranging their leaves to provide a cover from the downpour for her.

  Several feet from where she sheltered, Aetius appeared. A puff of steam surrounded him. He immediately spotted her. His face had a grim expression, and when his eyes met her, he did not smile.

  He took deliberate steps toward her. “Terra, I’ve been worried. You bewitched the elements to betray me.”

  “They didn’t betray you. They’d never betray their master.” She sighed.

  “They’ve never failed me, but this time they did. They wouldn’t reveal your whereabouts until now. I’m amazed by your influence over them.” He pushed his wet hair out of his face. The thunder rang loud above them. The rain stopped falling directly on them but continued to beat hard on the ground around them.

  “See, look how the rain respects you. It falls everywhere but on us. You’re still its master.” She smiled up at him. “Are you mad because you lost your power over the elements, or are you mad you couldn’t find me and you were worried?”

  “I’m not mad at all. I was worried and frustrated with my lack of sway over my elements. They are a part of me, and they followed your directive against me.” He huffed. “They told me you asked for some time for me not to know where you were. To give you privacy.”

  “Yes, that’s correct, it’s what I requested. I’m honored they did what I asked. You know they only did what I asked because I’m your mate.”

  “I know.” He nodded. “But it was frustrating for me. I think the wind particularly enjoyed my situation since I yelled at it for beating on the door. Where were you? What were you doing?”

  “I was visiting with my great-grandfather Cernunnos and with Goddess Airmid in the Celtrix realm.”

  “I see. I hope you had a nice time.” He gave her a tight smile.

  “I did.” She nodded.

  “Good. Let’s go. I’m tired of standing in the storm, and I want to take you to meet my family.”

  “We’re meeting your family? That’s wonderful.”

  “Yes, I thought it would be good for you to meet them before the wedding. Sometimes I forget the general niceties of life, and I apologize for that.”

  “I’m glad you thought of it now. I’m very excited to meet them.”

  “I’m pleased you are. We’re meeting them in the Asterlia realm.”

  “The Fey shopping realm?” Her voice elevated with excitement. “That sounds like fun. I’m ready to go shopping. It will take my mind off Emaline.”

  “I sent a message to my mother, inviting her to meet us at her favorite dress shop. She’s going to get a babysitter for my youngest siblings and bring two of my sisters with her.”

  “She has young ones who need a babysitter?”

  “Yes, she’s immortal. I have about thirty siblings. At least, I think.” He looked up at the sky as if he were thinking. “I admit I lose track of some of the younger ones. Fey are very family oriented, but I’ve been distracted with my employment and other concerns for far too long.” He looked away. “I missed out on many family events. I hope to correct that flaw.”

  “I’m looking forward to meeting your family.” She touched his arm.

  He waved his hand in front of her, magically changing her clothes. A silver gown replaced her damp slacks and shirt.

  “You look fabulous,” he told her.

  “Why go to a dressmaker? You can make a gorgeous dress for me.” She twirled around for him to see her better. “I feel like a fairy princess.”

  “And you are.” He took her hand. “But we need to go to a dress shop to get a fresh idea. I can only imitate things I see and like. This is a dress I saw Athena wear while she was sitting on the council. I liked it and put it to memory. So, the dressmakers are the best for original designs.”

  “You did an excellent job. But I’d love to shop. Let’s go.”

  “Of course you do. You’ll get along wonderfully with the women of my family.” He winked.

  “Aetius, I’m glad you came after me. I was unsure about how to flash home. When I left you, I intended to go to the Tay Forest, but I ended up in the Black Forest.”

  “That’s a big difference.” He raised an eyebrow.

  “Yes, I didn’t want to make a worse mistake and end up in the middle of the ocean or under it.”

  “Yes, that would have caused you to panic.” He grinned. “We’ll have to practice. All I know is, I’m so glad to have you back with me. I hope you’ve forgiven me. At least, somewhat.”

  “I have.” She kissed him with intensity.

  Their world altered and swirled around them.

  Chapter 14

  When the world stopped spinning, Terra and Aetius stood on a wide sidewalk in the middle of a busy city. A few feet away from them a band of musicians were playing and singing a catchy tune. An audience was gathered around the
m, swaying and singing along.

  There were food vendors on the street as well. Unique aromas filled the air, and Terra inhaled deeply, appreciating the smell of cinnamon and nutmeg.

  “Before we leave here, we’ll buy some of the cinnicakes. They’re delicious.” He grinned. “I never visit Asterlia without having a few cinnicakes.”

  “A few.” She laughed.

  “Yes, you’ll see. You can’t have only one.” They started to walk down the street.

  Pedestrians rushed by carrying packages and eating cinnicakes. Everyone was dressed handsomely. They were laughing and chatting. The Fey people were animated and full of life. Just being around them made Terra happy.

  Unicorns pulled lavishly decorated carriages. Terra couldn’t help but stare at the graceful animals as they passed by. “The unicorns are so special. I’ve dreamed of seeing one. I wasn’t certain they really existed.” She watched them prance by with their heads held proudly. The unicorns were various colors, and they wore colorful blankets on their backs. Their long manes were braided with ribbons and jewels. “This place is so magical.”

  “It is.” He nodded. “And yes, unicorns exist. The Fey took them from the human realm to protect them. Now many humans believe their existence was a myth.”

  “Why did they take them?”

  “The humans wanted to steal them for the magical qualities of their horns. And to take their horn is as good as killing them.”

  She frowned. “That’s terrible.”

  Many of the Fey wore their wings out, exposed in their full glory. Their lacy wings were elegant and some were very colorful.

  “Everything is beautiful here,” Terra said.

  “Yes.” He nodded. “Fey adore beauty and love to dress up.” He put her hand on his arm, and they walked down the crowded street. “Fey are very social.” He returned a nod to a passing couple.

  “Are there only Fey here?”

  “No, other supernatural beings also visit Asterlia. They enjoy our fashion choices and entertainment.”

  “I can understand that.”

  “Mostly elves, nymphs, dragons, trolls, and the Mer visit here. They mingle the best with Fey. But it’s predominately a Fey realm.” He nodded to another passing group of people who took their hats off and lowered their heads to him.

  “You’re important.”

  “I’m a prince, remember? And I’m a Master Elemental. The ones who recognize me are showing respect.”

  The street was lined with storefronts offering countless merchandise. Beautiful clothing, shoes, jewelry, scarves, handbags, and hats were displayed in the large windows. Also, there were shops offering services, such as hair, nail, wing tinting, and tattoo salons.

  “You can dye your wings?” Terra paused to look into one of the spa’s windows.

  “Yes.” He nodded.

  There were spas offering massages, waxing, and facials. “This place has everything.” Terra could hardly contain her excitement.

  “Yes, we love to shop and beautify ourselves. And Fey have exceptionally talented artist who create unique clothes and accessories. Creating clothes is an art form to the Fey. Many of the goddesses shop here too.” He gestured toward the windows as they passed. “The store I’m taking you to is called Freya’s Closet. And yes, she does shop there too.”

  “Nice.” Terra watched as the mass of flamboyant people passed her.

  Abruptly, Terra stopped in front of an enormous store window. It was one of the most intriguing windows she’d seen. It was filled with gowns, shoes, bags, and jewelry.

  She pulled Aetius to the window and pointed to a crushed velvet, emerald dress with a golden belt that rested low on the mannequin’s hips. “Look at this gorgeous gown.” Excitement resonated in her voice. “It’s perfect. Do you like it?” she asked. “I can picture myself wearing it as I enter the Joining Circle.”

  “But it’s not purple.” He smiled at her. “You told me you wanted a purple gown.”

  “I know, but I hadn’t seen this gown.”

  “Okay, I understand. See, I do listen to you.” He winked. “I think green is more fitting for you anyway. After all, you’re the Fey who has a way with plants and trees, like no other.”

  “I do have a special connection to all things green.” She nodded. “I’ve changed my mind about the purple, I love this gown. Maybe I can have a purple gown for the Beltane party and change into the green one for our joining. I think I really do need two gowns.” She admired the Medieval-style gown. “I think the silhouette of the gown will fit my shape nicely.”

  “I have to agree with you there.” He put his arm around her waist and rested his hand on her hip.

  “I love the gown’s train too. It’s perfect for a wedding gown. And look at the gauzy sleeves, they remind me of lacy wings. Since I don’t have my own wings, I really like the style.”

  “It’s nice. You sound amazingly like my mother and sisters, thinking of reasons to wear several gowns to an event. Don’t forget to buy shoes or boots to match.”

  “It has a handfasting cord that goes with the gown. I really want this dress.” She smiled up at Aetius, barely able to contain her excitement. “It’s absolutely perfect.”

  “It’s lovely, and it’ll be even prettier on you. Let’s go look at it.” He opened the store’s door.

  “Okay. But what about your family? They’re waiting for us.” Terra could hardly wait to get inside the store.

  “It just so happens that this is Freya’s Closet, and the place where we agreed to meet. I think I see my mother, father, and sisters. Come on inside.” He held the door open for her.

  Terra quickly noticed the Fey did not wear their wings out in the store.

  A group of Fey rushed toward them. “Aetius, it’s so good to see you.” A beautiful redheaded woman raced into Aetius’s arms. She embraced him with enthusiasm. “My darling son, I’ve missed you.” She hugged him again. “I was so pleased to hear from you. Thank you for thinking of us.”

  “Of course, Mother.” Aetius kissed the side of her face.

  An impressive, dark-haired man stood behind Aetius’s mother. He looked very similar to Aetius. When Aetius’s mother released him, the man shook his hand and then pulled him in for a bear hug. “Son, we’re very happy to be part of your Joining Circle.” He smiled widely at Aetius. “This is a happy time for all of us.”

  Two beautiful female Fey giggled and waved at Terra. When Aetius’s father moved away from him they hugged him too. They had black, shiny hair that matched their brother’s.

  “Mother, Father, this is my mate, Terra.” He put his arm around Terra. “These are my parents and two of my sisters.”

  “We’ve heard so much about Terra from King Cearul, her great-great-grandfather. He’s very proud to have learned of her, and I can see why. She’s adorable.” Aetius’s father walked toward Terra and grinned at her. “My dear, may I have a hug? You’re a beautiful creature, and you’ve captured my son’s heart.”

  “Yes, I’d like a hug.” She held her arms out to embrace him.

  “Welcome to our family.” He hugged her then stepped back to examine her more closely. “You can call me Dillon. We’re so happy Aetius has finally found his love. It’s about time.” Dillon gestured toward the redhead. “This is his mother, Aileen, and two of our daughters, Aine and Alma.”

  “I have many more brothers and sisters. Like I told you, I have an exceptionally large family,” Aetius said.

  Terra’s face grew warm from being the center of attention. They were all looking at her as if she were on display. Then Aetius’s mother hugged her, followed by the two giggling siblings.

  “Such a lovely, young lady. We approve.” Aileen kissed her on the cheek. “Thank you for making our son happy.”

  “It’s wonderful to meet you.” Terra stayed close to Aetius’s side. “He makes me happy.” She looked up at Aetius. She could see her words pleased him.

  Alma took Terra’s hand and tugged on her arm. “Come on, w
e have a private family shopping room where we can have the gowns shown to us and try them on. We should buy lots of dresses and shoes.”

  “Stellia,” Aetius called to the shopkeeper.

  A petite, blonde woman came over to where they were. “Yes, my prince.”

  “My chosen wants to try on the emerald handfasting gown in the window. Please bring it to our private room.”

  “Right away, Prince Aetius.” The woman curtsied and rushed off to comply.

  When they got to the private room, the two men sat together and talked while the women tried on the gowns. Terra insisted on Aetius not seeing her in the emerald gown. When she tried it on, she fell in love with it even more. The other women approved and suggested other gowns for her to buy too. She chose a purple gown for the first part of the party, the Beltane festival.

  The shopkeeper hung the gowns by the fitting room as she showed Terra beautiful lace undergarments to match both dresses. Terra selected matching underclothes. She also selected a pair of golden slippers and a pair of lace-up, brown, leather boots to go with her dresses.

  Aetius waved the shopkeeper over to him. “Stellia, whatever the women want, charge to me. Show Terra the white, velvet coat you have that goes nicely with the emerald dress. I want her to have the coat as well.”

  “Yes.” Stellia nodded. “It will look beautiful with her hair and eyes. A very good choice.”

  After buying numerous items, they decided to go to a restaurant they frequented. Aetius magically delivered Terra’s packages to one of his homes. His mother and sisters’ purchases were delivered to their home.

  Dillon held the door as they exited the store. The street was still busy with shoppers. Another group of musicians were entertaining gathered Fey. This time people were dancing in the streets. Even Aine and Alma rushed over to the dancers and joined them. Aetius, Terra, and his parents stopped to watch. Aileen clapped as her daughters made the rounds with the other dancers. Terra started to clap too.

  The song finished, and the girls came back to where they waited. “Let’s go eat now.” Aine fixed her hair. Both sisters were beautiful girls, their faces rosy from the dancing.