I sighed and tightened my grip around his neck. “I know, maybe it’s… ” His kiss cut me off mid-sentence, his taste enveloping my senses. My entire thought process was interrupted, and suddenly all my insecurities melted away. I could feel my muscles relax, and my bones turn to jello. I had to tighten my grip, so I wouldn’t fall over. I felt his arms squeeze my waist and lift me off the ground. In one swoop, I was in his arms, and we were moving to the bedroom.
With our mouths never leaving each other, he explored my body as though it was his first time. I pulled his clothes off, hungry for him. When we finally connected, body and soul, it was magic. It could have been just Shep and me. No one else in the entire universe mattered in those few moments. Then the magic faded and we floated back to reality.
“Are you ready to join the family downstairs for breakfast? That was my mission this morning, by the way, to bring you to breakfast not take you to bed.” He laughed pulling me tighter. “I just couldn’t help myself,” he whispered in my ear.
“Well, I’m glad you couldn’t help yourself,” I replied, kissing him on the nose before getting out of bed.
I grabbed the clothes I had chosen the night before, and dressed quickly as Shep watched from the bed. As I was pulling my hair up I asked him, “Are you gonna lay there all day?” He sat up stretching. “Just enjoying the view, but as much as I don’t wanna move, I guess I better get dressed huh?” He stood up, his manhood fully exposed, and he walked into the bathroom to pick up his clothes off the floor. I had to turn away from the view before I pushed him back onto the bed to have my way with him.
I took a deep breath to calm my heart and focused on the ponytail I was attempting to create. Shep could be such a distraction at times, a beautiful, welcome distraction. He was fully dressed and ready to go, and I was still fiddling with my damn hair. How could he be so focused when I felt so scattered?
“Stop fiddling with your hair Lilly. You look beautiful.” He was smiling as he reached to grab my hand and my hair fell around my shoulders. I guess trying for the ponytail was pointless. He was pulling me from the room before I could protest.
We met our families in the dining room, where breakfast was already on the table. We went to the two empty seats to take our place at the table. Meme and Shep’s mom watched us accusingly, though not a word was spoken. I had too many emotions stirring to worry about their thoughts anyway. Part of me was elated to have Shep here. Knowing he loved me enough to follow me here made my heart soar. Knowing he would make this journey with me gave me a sense of safety. On the flip side, I was here to find and rescue my mother, and my nerves of steel from the day before were turning to mush. My belly was turning, and my heart was pounding like a jackhammer beneath my skin. The self-doubt was creeping in the closer my departure time came. I knew finding my mother was the most important thing to me, but I was also aware that Jax was on the brink of causing a war and my mother was in the thick of it.
I had to find her, not only for me but for the people of Neveah. The daunting task at hand was taking over my brain, so I chose to try and focus on the facts I knew. I was in a land I never knew existed amongst creatures and people I believed were only part of fairy tales and horror stories. I was facing a man who carried an obsession for my mother and . had killed my father. He was looking forward to going to war with my family should things turn out of his favor. I think he was actually hoping for a war. Finding the place he had my mother would not be the hard part, finding the true Jax Bane, was going to be difficult. His skin walking ability was going to be a challenge. The night before, after accusing Shep of being Jax, my Meme had informed me that Jax had a distinguishing mark on the inside of his wrist that remained there regardless of the form he took. I would have to remember this whenever meeting anyone new. I couldn’t be too careful.
I was not raised a fighter, but Shep had taught me how to handle a gun and a knife. I had to keep my wits about me and think intelligently. There were no guns here in Neveah, though those that protect the land do carry swords. Most folk use their magic as a weapon. They have no need for material protection, and rarely have to use magic as a defense given Neveah’s peacefulness.
Jax had changed that for the people here. Not only was he holding my mother, but he had declared war on my grandparents and any person who chose to follow them. He had skillfully convinced creatures who may have been outcast, or may be considered a possible danger to join him. There had been whispers in Neveah that Jax had been recruiting in anticipation of war. He had convinced these creatures that my grandparents, who ran the land, were dangerous to them. He had told them, those running the land, were not as accepting of monsters as they claimed and would eventually run them to extinction. He led them to believe if they did not follow him, or fight for him, a day would come when the so called good people of Neveah would rise up to destroy them. He promised to fight for them, for their rights, and for justice for all those who were labeled a monster. He would bring them to power over the current king and queen. The land would belong to them. While many followed Jax, trusted him, most were not fooled by his trickery and came straight to the castle to report on his doings.
Most creatures of Neveah, monster or not, knew they were accepted and loved by the Lord and Lady, regardless of their looks or the powers they possessed. They wanted to live in peace just the same. It had been these great monsters, who chose the light, as I liked to refer to our side, which brought the news of Jax’s army, and also of my mother’s capture. A few of them served under Jax just to gain knowledge to bring to my grandparents. I was to be introduced to these creatures at different points along my journey. They would aid . my entrance into Jax’s compound and lead me to my mother. A few others were to follow me on my journey, out of sight, but there just the same. I was to gather as much information and as many follower’s as possible on my way to Jax’s. I was assured by my grandparents and Serephina that people would listen to me. They would follow.
I was given a necklace to wear. It was the symbol of the house of Levannah, carved in ivory and hung from a leather rope. I was instructed to wear it outside of my shirt in plain sight. When people or creatures saw it they would understand that I come in peace and was sent by the Levannah’s. Once I gained their trust, I was to explain who I was and what I intended to do, at which point I would ask for their help. Not all would follow me to Jax’s, but may offer a place to stay, food to eat, give me direction, or information.
Others would make the journey with me and stand beside me should a fight come to pass. I was really hoping it would not come to that. Once I found my mother, I hoped she would help me in defeating Jax. Her powers to calm and persuade people should be enough to break the hold Jax had over his army. I played the information over and over in my head as I sat at breakfast, barely touching my bread and jam, so much to process, so much to consider, and so much to lose if I failed. I swear at times Shep could read my thoughts. I felt his hand gently squeeze my leg under the table in reassurance. I looked over to find him smiling at me and my nerves began to fade, slightly.
“Are you okay Lilly? You seem a little green.” It was Meme who spoke with serious concern written on her face.
“Oh, well I was just trying to put all my thoughts in order. I am a bit afraid, if I am being honest.” My grandfather was sitting at the head of the table. He had not spoken to me since my arrival, and I had to wonder if he thought I was responsible for the mess his daughter was in. I couldn’t help but feel hurt by his silence. Knowing he sat there watching me made me all the more queasy. Then he spoke, “Lilly, daughter of my daughter, you have had a horrendous burden laid upon your shoulders. The journey ahead is one full of danger and unknown. You have every right to feel nervous and afraid. Please know this Lilly, while some of Neveah have turned to evil, most of us are good. Yes, your journey may be dangerous, but you will have many who will protect and serve you. I have every faith you will be successful. I see strength in you Lilly, even if you don’t.”
He stood, making his way around the giant circular table to me. I sat, mouth hanging wide, shocked, until once again Shep squeezed my thigh signaling me to stand up and greet my grandfather.
He was enormous next to me. His beard hung to his waist and matched his hair color. His eyes were gentle, yet intimidating. I looked up with a confidence I had to reach deep to find before I replied, “I love my mother very much, and this was her home, therefore I love this land as my own. I will try my best to bring her home. I am sorry she is in this position, but I will do my best to get her out.” I finished my voice a little shaky and tears were welling up. I fought the urge to cry, determined to stand my ground with this man. He took me by surprise scooping me up in his arms, whispering, “Don’t be sorry, this is not your doing. I am sorry to send you on this mission.” He squeezed me tight before whispering one last thing. “You look so much like her.” Then he kissed me on the cheek and lowered my feet back to the floor.
I headed up to my room after breakfast with a renewed sense of confidence. My grandfather’s words and embrace had given me a much needed boost. I was still nervous, and worried I wouldn’t make it to my mother before Jax could hurt her anymore. I felt staying the night and staying for breakfast was wasting time. My escapades with Shep left me feeling content and guilty at the same time.
The time was . now. There was no turning back. I was heading upstairs to pack a small bag before meeting Shep and the family outside. It suddenly occurred to me I hadn’t actually stepped outside of these walls since my arrival yesterday. I had no idea the weather here. How was I supposed to know what to pack? I was beginning to panic and took three deep breaths to calm myself. I was wearing slacks, cotton button up shirt and boots and no one had commented that my attire was not suitable for my journey. Once in the room I decided to put a tank top under my shirt, and tied a jacket around my waist. I put a few changes of underclothes in my backpack, along with my camera, and my journal. I threw my hair in the ponytail that seemed so impossible earlier and was ready to go.
On my way out, I was stopped by my grandfather who had a canteen like container in one hand and wad of paper in the other. “Here Lilly, a water container for your trip, most of the waters of Neveah are drinkable,also some slices of huckleberry bread,it’s not much but it’s something,” he said as he handed me the goods and appeared on the verge of tears. I took the water container and placed it inside my pack and slid the paper full of bread in an outside pocket. I hugged my grandfather tight and silently hoped I would have a chance to know him better when I returned. “I will do my best,” I said quietly.
“I know you will Lilly. I have every faith in you.” He hugged me back for a fraction of a second before breaking the embrace and striding across the room, away from me. The encounter left me breathless, and it took me a moment to regain my composure. I felt a touch on my shoulder that brought me back. “You ready?” It was Shep.
“Yeah, where are your mom and Serephina?”
“Outside waiting for us, come on.” He took my hand, and we walked towards the entry way at the front of the house.
We made our way out the door, and I was . in awe of what awaited me beyond the walls of the manor. The sun’s rays were a rainbow and the ground grew the greenest, thickest grass I had ever seen. The trees reached towards the sky and were deep shades of blues and greens. The exterior of the house was a stark white that stood out against the deep blue sky. Vibrant flowers adorned the walkway in every color imaginable. Leah and Serephina were waiting for us at the end of the walkway. It wasn’t until I made it to them before I realized the house was nestled atop a hill overlooking Neveah. The view was breathtaking. I stood in wonderment, as I took in the surroundings. I glanced at Shep who stood in as much disbelief as I did.
“It’s gorgeous isn’t it?” I asked him while grabbing his hand. “Yes it is,” Shep stated simply. We stood admiring the land until Serephina spoke up. “Come, we must get going. We need to make it to our first destination before dark.” She took the lead down the hill, and we followed.
The landscape was so magnificent I couldn’t imagine any danger residing here. . I could see how these people had been . peaceful for so long. As we walked I noticed many species around us. We made it to the forest, at the foot of the hill, where birds of varying sizes and colors flew around us. They were making a noise that sounded like a melody and appeared to be leading our way. We followed as Leah explained these birds were called Aria due to their ability to sing together in perfect harmony. These birds often visited the homes of the ill and sang to them, offering comfort. They were unbelievable. Some were blue, pink, purple, green and ranged from the size of a hummingbird to an eagle. One flew right onto my shoulder humming the most wonderful tune I had ever heard.
“It is thought these birds bring good fortune to the creatures they connect with. Not everyone connects with an Aria. The females can only connect to women and the males only connect to men,” Serephina explained.
“How do you know if you connect?” I asked.
“Well, they can sing to anyone and offer comfort, but they can only physically touch their magnet,” she replied, smiling at me.
“Hey Lilly, looks like you have an Aria.” Shep pointed out.
“Me? Really? Why?” I was confused as to why this little creature would choose me.
“No one knows how, but once an Aria chooses its magnet they are theirs forever, come on.” Leah was smiling, as was Serephina. It appeared they were happy about our new traveling companion. My little Aria was baby pink with a lovely tuneful voice. She stayed perched on my shoulder as if that had always been her place.
We had been walking for what seemed like hours, although I had come to notice time was really nonexistent in Neveah, at least by earth standards. They did everything based on the sun and the moon. There weren’t actual hours, just day and night. I guessed it was around lunch because I could hear Shep’s belly rumbling beside me. I could always count on Shep’s appetite to alert me of the time. We were close to exiting the forest when I suggested we stop to eat and rest. “We have been walking for some time, maybe we could break for a bit,” I suggested and Shep was the first to chime in. “I second that,” he said and sat on the closest rock.
He was unzipping his pack when the rock beneath him started to wiggle and moan. Shep jumped faster than I had ever seen him move, and I took a step back. I could hear Serephina and Leah laughing behind us as I watched this rock grow legs, grunt towards Shep, and waddle away. His face was priceless. It wasn’t often I saw him startled.
“Looks like you’re not as prepared for all Neveah has to offer as you thought, . son?” It was Leah who spoke in between hysterical fits of laughter.
“What the hell was that? I thought it was a rock?” Shep complained.
“It’s an animal native to the land, the Promontory. They have a hard outer shell, as you discovered but are very gentle creatures,” Leah explained. “I warned you there are many things you are going to witness you may not be able to believe.”
“Yeah, yeah, I know. I was just taken by surprise at first. I mean outside of the vibrant colors and the little elf girl, things here don’t seem much different from home.”
“Yes, but we have only just barely made it to the end of the land of Lord and Lady Levannah. There is much to see on the other side of this land. Can you handle it?”
“Huh. Of course! I can’t believe you would even ask.” Shep was slighted by the last remark. As loving and romantic as he could be he was still very much a man and took great offense at being treated as anything less than one. He could handle anything he said, even some moving rock. We decided to sit directly on the ground. No chance of moving objects.
The grass was the greenest I had ever seen and soft as cotton. The entire forest floor was covered in the cottony grass. Not a speck of dirt in sight, amazing. I pulled one of the pieces of huckleberry bread out and nibbled on it while sipping my water. Shep had an energy bar and sipped his own canteen of water. I
laid my head in his lap while we listened to Serephina tell us about our first destination.
We were to pass the borders of a few villages already thought to stand behind the Levannah’s. One such village was where a few of the healers of Neveah resided. Therefore, my bloodline ran through it. I was sad not to stop there but understood we had to make it as far as possible before dark. The healer’s village was not far from us. We would be there before the sun was above us. I had suggested maybe we pass through, but Serephina had other plans. “No,” she said. “We have to make it further.” I decided not to argue. Clearly, she knew what she was doing. At least, I hoped so.
We would stay in the village of Antiope, which bordered Lake Aruna. Serephina explained the lake was home to Barlaam, the water beast. Many in Neveah were frightened by the beast and would never think to cross the lake. Lord Levannah shared a special relationship with Barlaam. We were told Barlaam was not beastly at all, but very gentle in fact. His appearance was less gentle. He took the form of a horrendous serpent and was able to communicate with his thoughts. He didn’t mind being regarded as frightening. On the contrary he liked it. He was a very solitary creature and rather liked being left alone. He had protected the waters of Neveah for many years as they are all connected by a stream or river, but he resided only in Lake Aruna.
Most water creatures did not fear him and he was always welcome to their waters while patrolling. It was the Specials who were frightened, and kept their distance. Antiope was just south of the lake, and we would spend the night there before crossing Lake Aruna on the back of Barlaam.
“We are going to ride this thing across the water?” I asked a little more aggressively than I needed.
“Are you scared Lilly? I’ll be with you.” Shep was looking down at me, playing with the loose strands of hair. “No, yes, well I don’t know. I guess we don’t have a choice, right Serephina?”
“You have nothing to be frightened of. He will be expecting us. Your Poppy has already sent word of you. Tonight we must meet with the Specials of Antiope and discover where they stand. I suspect it will be with us.” Serephina was always the picture of optimism. We finished our food and continued onward. We passed over rolling hills that went on for miles, and were covered in the green cotton grass. I could see magnificent trees bordering the edge of the last hump we needed to cross. The trees bore leaves in an array of yellow and red that glinted off the sun. Serephina informed us Antiope was just beyond the trees.
Neveah Box Series (Neveah Box Set Book 5) Page 10