by Mary Morgan
Rose giggled and waved off his gesture. “I enjoy the feel of the land beneath my bare feet.”
“That makes two of us.”
As they ambled along the path back to the castle, Aidan’s thoughts returned to their vague future. His silent prayer to Mother Danu was that his trial would be swift, and they would banish him from the kingdom.
He returned his attention to telling Rose about the vanilla scented orchids that were as big as his hand. And cherry blossoms that were speckled with gold, so they could mirror the sunlight.
Reaching the front entrance, Aidan pushed open the massive doors and swept his hand forward for Rose to enter.
“What culinary delight do you favor tonight, mo ghrá?”
Entering the kitchen, Rose went and retrieved the kettle. “Nothing fancy. I’ll be happy with eggs and toast.”
Grumbling a protest, Aidan responded, “I’ll make you an omelet.”
“Although I’m curious.”
Arching a brow, Aidan went to the fridge. “About?”
She gestured outward. “Why don’t you use magic to whip something up to eat?”
“It’s simple,” he stated, pulling out eggs, cheese, peppers, and wild onions. “Cooking gives me pleasure. I have always prepared my meals in this fashion, unless I was deep on a mission. During those times, warriors barely manage to eat. And contrary to what you may believe, the Fae do prepare their meals. Magic is not the solution for everything we do in the kingdom.”
Moving to the sink, Rose filled the kettle and then returned to the stove. “The only difference between you and the military is that you’re a Fae with magical powers.”
“Seems incredulous, right?” Aidan deposited the food items on the counter.
Rose snorted, leaning against the wall. “More like mind-blowing.” She tilted her head to the side. “Will you miss the missions? Traveling back and forth through time?”
Aidan sighed heavily. “Have we not already gone down this road of conversation?”
“Yes,” she uttered in dismay and walked away. Going to the window, she kept her back to him. “There are times when my knowledge and life cannot compare to yours. What in the world did you see in me?”
Stunned by her admission, Aidan immediately went to her side. Grasping her by the shoulders, he forced her around to face him. He scanned her lovely face, seeing wariness reflected. “Never discount the woman you are, Rose MacLaren. Ever. I saw beauty inside the depth of your soul. Your intelligence would rival any Fae in the herbal gardens, and you possess a wisdom that sparks from a desire to learn more. You challenge me, leannan. Do not ever think yourself beneath me.”
Nodding slowly, she said, “Then we will teach each other.”
“A grand idea,” he affirmed.
A twinkle of mischief replaced uncertainty in her eyes. “Though I do love being under you at specific times.”
Desire rolled through him, and Aidan let out a groan. His mouth captured hers hungrily, sealing any further words from his beloved with a searing kiss.
****
Watching as the setting sun bled into the sky on its way to the golden dusk of twilight, Rose reached for Aidan’s hand. She laced her fingers, drawing him to her side. Anticipation danced like butterflies in her stomach as they waited for the bonfire to be lit. Children could be heard in the distance singing songs in delight of the faeries that would join with them at this Beltaine celebration. Little did they know that a large Fae had been with them all day.
Aidan laughed, feasted, and appeared carefree. It seemed like he belonged here. A part of the village and the people who lived there.
She stole a glance at Aidan. His relaxed stance and profile made her heart sing. She had never been so happy in all of her life. Each time he entered a room, her heart leapt in joy. He stole the breath from her lungs and made her tremble with a single touch.
Rose loved the warrior with unbridled passion.
“Are you admiring the view, leannan?” His deep husky brogue swept over her skin in a soft caress.
Embarrassed, she nudged him playfully. “Was I that obvious?”
He wrapped a warm arm around her shoulders and bent near her ear. “I can feel your heated gaze.”
“Let me guess. Special Fae senses?”
“Precisely.” Aidan chuckled and placed a kiss on her cheek.
Rose nuzzled against him. “You smell good.”
“It’s the cinnamon in the apple pastry I purchased from a vendor earlier.”
“You forget I had the strawberry scone.”
Aidan released his hold. “Wait here. I’ll return shortly.”
“But they’re about to light the bonfire,” she protested.
He tweaked her nose. “Not yet.”
Rose watched as her warrior strolled through the crowd of people to the stall of vendors. Humming a tune, she swayed back and forth. Contentment and peace centered her. She curled her toes into the lush grass, eager for the dancing to begin.
True to his word, Aidan returned quickly, presenting her with an apple pastry. He dipped a slight bow. “For the fair maiden.”
“So gallant, my warrior. Thank you.” Taking the offering, she savored the delectable confection.
After she finished the last morsel, Aidan reached for her hands. “Now for my treat.”
When his mouth touched her fingers, heat blossomed within her. Taking his time, he licked and nipped across her skin, devouring the sticky leftovers. Desire unfurled within her body in the most intimate places.
She stepped closer. “You are the most seductive man ever.”
Lowering his head, he trailed his tongue over the bottom of her lip. “And you are a siren that makes my blood burn.”
Rose let out a moan and wrapped her arms around his neck, taking his kiss with reckless abandon. When the first rousing cheer surrounded them, she drew back. The bonfire had been lit, and the merriment had begun.
Aidan took her hand, giving her a dazzling smile. “Shall we dance around the fire once, before departing for somewhere more private?”
“A wonderful plan.”
Gaiety filled her as they rushed with the others to dance around the huge blaze. The air hummed with good energy as the flames snapped and flared into the night sky.
Aidan held her hand firm within his grasp, his voice ringing loud in song. “One more turn?” he shouted.
“Yes!”
Onward they went in laughter and song, enjoying the moment. After a third time around the bonfire, Aidan pulled her away from the crowd. They ran across the open meadow and into the forest. A shard of moonlight dusted the ground as their steps slowed.
Aidan pulled her deep within and backed her against one of the pine trees. His eyes flashed silver as she melted into his arms.
His kiss was demanding, and Rose surrendered, giving him all she had.
A thunderous explosion shook the ground, shattering their peaceful interlude. Aidan drew back suddenly and turned around abruptly. Mists crept along the forest floor, snaking their way to them.
“What’s wrong?” she whispered in a shaky voice.
The agony of his silence ripped through her, and an ache settled within her chest. Their blissful time had come to an end. Her shoulders sagged with the realization. “The Fae are here for you.”
“Yes.”
Rose reached for his hand. Her pounding heart grew stronger. “I cannot leave you, Aidan.”
Bringing their joined hands to his chest, he cupped her chin firmly. “Whatever happens, do not interfere, mo ghrá. Do you understand? Promise me no matter what you witness, you will not come forth.”
She wanted to scream at him. How could he ask her to remain docile and compliant? Though she longed to argue her case, she simply nodded in agreement. “I promise,” she stated weakly.
In one swift move, he grasped her around the waist and crushed his mouth against hers. Breathing heavily, he released her. “Never forget my love for you, Rose. Remember, time moves slowly
in the Fae realm.”
“What are you saying? Days, weeks, until you come back?” she asked.
“Possibly months for the council to make their assessment.”
Rose grasped his hands tightly. “I don’t care how long I have to wait, Aidan Kerrigan. You are mine, body and soul. Return to me.” Her voice choked on the emotions.
He nodded behind her. “Go stand against one of the larger trees farther down. Do not move from there.”
Tears stung her eyes, but she refused to be weak in front of him. He needed her strength now. Her breathing became shallow and the air thick. “I love you,” she blurted out.
“Och, leannan.” After taking her mouth one more time in a fiery kiss, he released her and pushed her away. “Go.”
Rose staggered away, her feet dragging over leaves and twigs. Her heart cried out to return to his side, but she had given him her promise. When she reached the tree, Rose turned around and let the tears fall down her cheeks.
Chapter Twenty-One
“A Fenian Warrior takes his shield of honor with him to his death.”
~Edicts of the Fenian Warriors
Aidan fisted his hands and waited. The power coiled around him, evidence that the guards from the Fae council had arrived. Another trickle of energy washed over him, alerting him to the presence of Fenian Warriors as well. Were they working together? He dared not open his mind and risk finding the glaring truth. No. He’d wait for them to make the first move.
As the first guard appeared out of the mists, Aidan gave him a curt nod. “Tadhg.”
Silently, others emerged and stood around Tadhg. Each warrior withdrew their swords in a show of power.
“Does the Fae consider me such a threat that they’ve sent ten of their guards?” asked Aidan.
Tadhg stepped forward. “As leader of the Fenian Warriors, your power is vast. You are under arrest, Fenian Warrior and have been summoned to appear before the Fae council to account for your heinous crime.”
The burning rage Aidan fought to keep in control threatened to unleash. “The name is Aidan Kerrigan. Do not insult me, Tadhg.”
The guard snarled. “Your time has come to an end.” Holding out a pair of crystal cuffs, he tossed them onto the ground. “Put them on.”
He heard Rose’s gasp from within the trees. When the other guards looked beyond him, Aidan took a step back. Any attack on his beloved and he was prepared to kill them all.
“Your disrespect for our leader is unfathomable,” stated a familiar voice.
Aidan glanced to his left, seeing Liam MacGregor and five other Fenian Warriors approach his side. His ire only ignited further. “What are you doing here?”
Liam kept his gaze fixed on Tadhg. “Giving you a proper escort back into the kingdom. If these Fae guards wish to accompany us, I see no issue with denying them.” He returned his attention to Aidan. “Do you?”
“I am no longer your leader,” grumbled Aidan.
“Since Flynn is not here, we will consider this our last act with you.”
Aidan nodded slowly. He turned to Tadhg. “I shall go willingly, as long as you accept the escort of the Fenian Warriors.”
Tadhg spat out a curse, but relented. He pointed a warning finger at Liam. “I hold you responsible if this warrior slips from our grasp.”
“Do not insult me again,” warned Aidan.
Tadhg turned his back on Aidan and spoke quietly with one of the guards.
Aidan faced his friend. “I have one final request.”
Liam arched a brow, but remained quiet.
Clamping a firm hold on the warrior’s shoulder, Aidan said, “From this moment forward, I charge you as the guardian to Rose MacLaren.”
“By the hounds,” hissed out Liam, raking a hand through his hair.
“There shall be no argument. I require your solemn vow.”
“Now? Can’t it wait until after we take you back?”
Aidan’s voice tightened with emotion. “No. Furthermore, return here and make sure she is safely concealed at Croí Dragon.” Indecision battled across Liam’s features. “Until you swear your oath as a Fenian Warrior to me, I cannot leave here. At present, Rose is witnessing all deep within the trees.”
Letting out a groan of protest, he uttered quietly, “As my allegiance to the Brotherhood and as a Fenian Warrior, I give my pledge to you, my leader, that I will protect, guide, and give my sword to Rose MacLaren.”
A bright shaft of light pierced the night sky, sealing the bargain Liam had made with Aidan.
Relief washed over Aidan. His beloved was now safe. With a sigh, Aidan released his hold. “Thank you. I am ready to depart.”
Aidan gave one parting glance over his shoulder to the woman who held his heart. Love you, mo ghrá. I promise to return.
In a sliver of light, he vanished, along with all the other warriors.
Instead of arriving within the Fae council chamber, he stood on the steps outside the Crystal Cathedral. Aidan lifted his head and viewed the council members standing under an awning before the entrance. As he glanced around, he noted the absence of the other Fenian Warriors. Surrounded by an entire garrison of Fae and royal guards, Aidan allowed the gentle spring breeze to cool his burning temper.
Fae council member, Seneca, stepped forward. “Aidan Kerrigan, Leader of the Fenian Warriors, from the Royal House of Óg , you are hereby—”
“Forgive the interruption, but why am I treated to a mockery of a trial outside the Fae council chamber?” demanded Aidan.
“It was by my order,” stated King Ansgar, emerging from the shadows of a column.
Aidan regarded his king and once friend coolly.
“All must be a witness to your crime within the human world,” continued the king.
Slowly, Aidan looked over his shoulder. Did the entire kingdom come forward to observe his public trial? Returning his attention beyond the king, he searched for the one familiar face he knew he’d brought hurt and shame to the most. Nuala.
Instantly, Aidan severed the mental link to his sister. He could not allow her to suffer any more pain. If she was not present, then she did not wish to watch or feel his pain.
King Ansgar descended the stairs. As he drew near, he leaned near Aidan. “Tell me I am wrong. Give me something to lessen your punishment. Was it merely a dalliance with the human female?”
“I cannot lie to protect myself. And you know the truth already. I am in love with Rose MacLaren, a human. I have since claimed her.”
A blow of power slammed against Aidan’s chest, and he slumped to the ground. The crowd gasped behind him. Unable to stand by himself, Aidan had no choice but to allow the two guards to pull him up.
Aidan glared at the king, seeing the rage flashing within his eyes. “Banish me and be done with this,” he rasped out.
The king’s voice hardened ruthlessly. “You deem it that simple? Banishment for your crime? No, Aidan Kerrigan. What you have done is violate one of our most important laws since we descended underground. All power granted to you as the leader shall be removed. Afterwards, your body will undergo a transformation to eradicate any longevity. I cannot remove the blood of your heritage, but I can shorten your life strings.”
A tendril of fear snaked inside his body. Why would he inflict such a harsh punishment? Only one thought illuminated. To be made an example for the entire kingdom by giving me extreme torture, so that another avoids the same mistake.
The king stood back. “Strip his shirt,” he ordered.
“King Ansgar, should you not let another?” asked Seneca, her eyes growing wide.
He silenced her with a flick of his wrist and motioned to the guards.
Aidan’s gaze never wavered from Ansgar. When his shirt was ripped from his body, Aidan held his arms outward. “Do what must be done.”
The king drew forth a silver dagger and placed it over Aidan’s chest. Blinding hot pain seared across his skin, removing all his Fenian markings and power. He clenched his jaw so tight, A
idan feared it would snap. Minutes ticked by in agonizing torture as he fought the bile heaving from his stomach. Beads of sweat broke out along his brow, and he blinked in an attempt to thwart the dizziness. As the last blue marking vanished, he drew in a sharp hiss. His breathing came out in short gasps, but Aidan refused to show any weakness.
“Aidan Kerrigan, former leader of the Fenian Warriors, from the Royal House of Óg, you are hereby renounced of all power, rights, and honor associated with your name! Once your final punishment is concluded, your banishment will be swift. You will be exiled from the Fae realm, if death does not claim you first.” The king gestured toward the guards. “Remove him to the underground chamber.”
Shards of pain throbbed behind his temples as they vanished in a vortex of lights. Emerging inside the chamber, Aidan continued to fight the waves of nausea. Each wrist was shackled in a crystal cuff against a black jasper and onyx wall. With no light above and the ground covered in the same stone, Aidan had to rely on his own inner strength. He knew all about this room and its horrifying affects.
Complete and utter solitude in a chamber that would alter him totally.
His rage intensified and a great roar escaped from his very soul. “Fools, all of you! Love is the greatest power!”
The air swirled in a tempest around Aidan, making it difficult to breathe. Clenching and unclenching his hands, he waited for the first slice of excruciating pain to enter his body. When it did, he vomited everything he had in his stomach onto the ground.
****
Swarms of vipers ate away at his flesh, reminding him of dragon fire and other battles from long ago. Where was his sword? Or the others to help him defeat these monsters? He shook his head, but the pain only intensified. He’d dared not utter a scream, or they would strike out more viciously than before.
Onward they dug their claws into his body, causing him to slam his head back against the wall. Only once did he crave for death’s blessed blow. And when he called out for her hand, another reached forward. Her silver-blonde tresses graced a lovely body as she approached. Cupping his face, she whispered soothing words, and he breathed in the soft scents of flowers and spices. In that briefest of moments, Aidan recalled his promise to his beloved.