by Nikki Landis
“Kay,” I heard him sigh, “It was the crossing. You know how it is.”
“Yes, and on foot it is brutal. She will awaken when her body is rested and not before. Now scoot.”
“Maybe I did push her too far. Rhiannon is not a soldier,” he admitted.
“Exactly.” She sounded a little impatient which made me smile. “Kel, I’m not moving. Go on. I’ll call you the second she is up.”
There was a scuffle and some laughter. I heard someone going down the stairs.
Leaning back against the pillows, I looked around the room. It was very earthy with all of the wood furnishings. There was a large desk by the window, accompanied by a huge wooden chair with velvet cushions. The bed I was lying in was enormous. The cover was a rich, deep green velvet and the sheets and pillows were cream colored pressed cotton.
A huge fireplace was across the room from the bed. There was a vase of wild flowers by the windowsill, on the desk. A large dresser with an oval mirror and armoire filled the opposite wall. It was a simple but pretty room. Almost masculine.
I sat up and stretched, feeling well rested and happy. I was here, in Kellen’s home, with him. It was perfect.
“Kellen?” I called. I waited. It was only about thirty seconds before the door opened. “Good morning,” I greeted him.
He ran over to the bed and kneeled beside me. Tilting up his face to look at me, he smiled.
“I’m so glad that you are awake. I was getting worried. You slept a long time.”
“I feel great. This bed is very comfortable.” I rested my hand on the smooth velvet. It was soft.
He lay his hand on top of mine. “I knew you would like it. I love this bed too. This is my room.”
I snapped my head back to him, my eyes wide. He grinned.
“I can’t believe you are here. If only the house was empty…” He trailed off.
His eyes became soft and he reached up to place a kiss on my cheek. I turned my face slightly and his mouth found mine for a brief moment. His kiss was gentle and sweet. I leaned back breathless when he pulled away.
I heard someone clear their throat. We both noticed Kayleigh at the door at the same time. She curtsied and then put her hands on her narrow hips, daring Kellen to ignore her. I giggled.
“Get out Kellen, she needs to get dressed and some breakfast. Go play with your friends, Tristan and Seasnan are downstairs.”
She walked over and pushed him lightly, knocking him off balance. He caught himself and jumped up. Then he reached over and gave her a hug. They smiled at each other as he walked for the door. Blowing me a kiss, he disappeared, closing the door behind him.
“I found a really pretty dress I thought you might like. Can I do your hair? I have an idea…”
Her voice trailed off as she grabbed my hand and pulled me out of bed. I ate my breakfast as she worked on me, amid a constant flow of friendly chatter. An hour later I was ready. Kayleigh took me to a full length mirror in her room across the hall, grinning from ear to ear. My eyes opened wide in surprise.
I looked like I had stepped back in time. The dress was a deep burgundy velvet that clung to my torso and waist flowing straight down, in an “A” shape to the ground. The collar was low cut but not too revealing, trimmed in cream lace and gold thread that also dominated the front panel. The sleeves were thin, sheer, cream colored and woven through with golden thread that crisscrossed across my arms.
At my waist was a long belt that tied and hung to the ground. It was made of multi colored thick thread. She had curled and twisted my hair as it hung in soft curls down to my waist. There were tiny flowers woven through, framing my face, resembling a crown.
“Wow, thank you,” I told her.
She grinned. “Kellen is going to flip.” She snickered knowingly.
We walked downstairs and out into the large front yard. Kellen had been practicing with his sword. His shirt was off, flung carelessly to the side, and he was covered in sweat. Glistening really. There were two other guys there, Guardians as well I guessed. They stopped and looked up as we approached.
Kellen’s eyes lit up when he saw me. The grin on his face said it all. He was definitely pleased. I was equally pleased by getting a chance to see him shirtless. It was the small things in life that made me happy. He was impressive to look at. I remembered my Greek God comparison. A chill ran across my arms and sent the butterflies in my stomach to fluttering again. I could hardly tear my eyes away from his broad chest and muscular stomach.
Oh the effect he had on me…
Kellen started walking toward me, smiling.
“Hello, nice to meet you, my name is Seasnan.” A deep voice startled me.
I was surprised to see someone entirely different standing in front of me. The stranger, Seasnan, took my hand and pressed it to his lips. He was taller even than Kellen and fair haired. His eyes were a silvery blue that hinted at an aggressive personality. He was big and muscular, tan, and also shirtless. His broad chest hid my view of Kellen. He was smiling, pleased that he had beaten him over to me.
What an interesting morning, I thought.
I smiled back at him. “I’m Rhiannon. Nice to meet you too, Seasnan.”
Surprise etched into his features. “Milady.” He fell to one knee and bowed his head briefly before rising. “I am at your service.”
I frowned. “What do you mean?”
He glanced at me, responding with a look of concern. “Kellen, isn’t this-”
“Enough Seasnan, hold your tongue.” He shot him a disapproving glare.
Kellen reached me. He put his arm around my waist and pulled me back slightly, brushing away Seasnan’s hand as he reached for mine again. He had a dark scowl on his face. Seasnan laughed loudly.
“Come on man, it’s all right.” He joked with him. Kellen did not return his smile.
“Jealous, much?” Kayleigh giggled.
Kellen relaxed and smiled but kept his arm around me. Just then the other guy walked up. His face was curious. He was also tall, tan, and muscular. What a surprise. What I did notice were his eyes. They were very blue and soft, kind looking. He had very dark hair. The interesting thing about him was the way he was watching Kayleigh. She noticed and blushed. Ah ha, I thought, these two like each other.
Kellen introduced us and I found out his name was Tristan. His voice was soft, although very masculine. He greeted me politely and shook my hand. I liked his soft demeanor immediately. His interest in Kayleigh was undeniable.
The afternoon passed quickly and happily. Kellen finished practicing with his friends. Tristan and Kayleigh had been chaperoned by Seasnan and gone for a walk. Kellen told me they were betrothed. I asked him if that meant that they were engaged. He threw his head back and laughed and told me yes. I seemed to always be able to make him laugh. He had been so happy today, his eyes bright and shining the whole day.
Chapter Four
At dinner that night we finally discussed the reasons for our visit. We were seated around the large wooden dining table in Kellen’s home. The formal dining room was decorated much as the rest of the house with velvets and lace, tapestries and florals, golden fleur de Lis and a large mural of the Guardian army. Both Tristan and Seasnan had joined the family and I learned that they were often here.
We enjoyed a very elaborate dinner with many courses. It had started with homemade soup full of vegetables and herbs and fresh baked bread followed by five main courses that included seafood and local dishes. There had been venison and boar as well as chicken and the largest crab legs I had ever seen. Large platters of fresh vegetables and sauces also filled the table. My eyes were wide at the amount that kept coming. Plate after plate, dish after dish, served consecutively.
Everyone ate heartily and leisurely. Meals were not rushed in this house. There was much conversation along with plenty of good natured teasing. These were hearty, happy people. My people. My heritage.
They lived life to its fullest, and they enjoyed it. I was completely enamo
red with his family and the whole atmosphere. I found myself laughing and talking often. Kellen turned to me frequently, smiling and squeezing my hand. He was having as much fun as I was. We were both very glad I came.
I noticed Kayleigh watching us frequently, mostly her brother. She smiled her same big grin at me often. I really liked her. Instantly. She was so enthusiastic and loving. Her sense of humor was fantastic. We often looked at each other and giggled like old school friends. Kellen noticed and smiled wider. He liked that we were developing a close friendship already. The way his eyes softened and held mine, I knew how he felt without voicing it.
“I would like to make a toast,” Kedehern announced, “to our guest, Rhiannon.” Goblets were raised around the table. “To her grace and beauty, to her wisdom and leadership, may she live in good health for many years to come.”
“Here, here,” Tristan agreed.
“To Rhiannon.” Several voices repeated.
“To my love,” Kellen whispered.
We drank from our goblets simultaneously. I smiled and blushed, touched by their hospitality.
Dessert was served. Pastries in sweet and savory, clotted cream, and fresh fruit. It was delicious. Far more elegant in taste than I ever thought possible. I was in danger of over indulging.
Soon, the conversation changed to why Kellen and I had arrived in Karmelo.
“The enemy is growing bolder in the human world. There have been many instances where they are crossing during the daylight hours. Rhiannon has been attacked several different times now. The decision to send me came at just the right time. I saved her life from certain death only weeks after I arrived.” He paused at the sharp intake of breath from Mairwen.
“The demons are bolder. They take the form of her worst fears. A hag and two werewolves surprised her in the forest and I took care of them, but she could have been killed.” He paused again for a moment with difficulty and then continued. “She is on their radar now, no longer hidden by her grandmother. It is very dangerous for her, for us all.”
I put my hand on his shoulder and he looked at me, still a little choked up about the memory. He raised his hand and brushed my cheek as I smiled at him reassuringly.
“Kellen defeated the last demon. He was frightening…and took the form of my dead grandfather,” several gasps of surprise filled the room, “I would have died, for certain, if not for Kellen.”
He held me closer and placed a kiss on my forehead. “Not on my watch.”
“This is important news Kellen,” Kedehern replied, “we must notify the council and warn the allies. Fighting has also increased here, in the surrounding cities. The attacks around the countryside continue and grow in number. Fires and theft grow more rampant. The enemy is preparing. Something bigger is coming and I don’t like the signs. We must have a plan. I have no doubt that this is only the beginning. War has lingered on our doorstep for decades.”
“Why do they want Rhiannon? For what purpose?” Kayleigh asked.
“We all know of the legends, of her ancestry. I’m not sure of their intentions. The attacks don’t make sense. It’s all wrong. I’m not sure if they want to ki…hurt her or…worse.” He struggled through his words, no doubt to resist saying too much and not wanting to scare me.
“Kellen,” I said softly, “you have to say what you think. Don’t worry about scaring me.”
I looked in his eyes when I told him, hoping he would listen. He only shook his head at me.
I turned to the table. “I was alone the first time, in the forest by my house. It was a demon, in the form of a Minotaur. He was frightening. Truly, I thought I was going to die. I barely escaped. I…I nearly fell to my death.” My voice faltered a little.
I heard several abrupt gasps and saw Kellen look at me sharply. I had forgotten he didn’t know that part about the cliff. He looked furious, about what I wasn’t sure. Oops.
Kellen had enough and stood up, pushing his chair back. He helped me out of my seat and put his arm around me. He wasn’t going to say anymore right now. Everyone understood. He was protecting me, doing his duty as my Guardian. I sighed softly. He steered me toward the front door, placing my hand in his and squeezing tightly.
“Obviously she needed protection sooner than we realized. I’m taking Rhiannon for a walk. We’ll return soon.”
Outside, he took my hand and pulled me along, his grip becoming tighter with every step. We walked along for a few minutes in the dark as our eyes adjusted. I could feel the tension in his arm. It felt like it was building. I was right. A few minutes later he pulled me over to the base of a large tree. His face was angry and concerned while he paced anxiously in front of me. I leaned back against it, waiting.
After a moment, he put his hands on either side of me against the tree. He leaned close, only a few inches from my face. I thought he was going to confront me. Instead, his expression softened, and he kissed me.
“Rhiannon,” he said softly when he pulled away. “I’m so upset that I wasn’t there when you got attacked that first time. I should have been. I wasn’t following you everywhere yet. You could have been…” He didn’t finish.
“Kellen, it’s really fine. You can’t beat yourself up over the ‘what ifs’. I’m unharmed.”
“I know that but…wait a minute. Why were you looking at me like that a minute ago? Did you think I was mad at you?”
I didn’t say anything and looked away from his piercing eyes.
“Rhiannon, darling?”
He took my chin in his hand and turned my face back to him. He saw the truth in my eyes.
“Oh, I’m sorry if I gave that impression. It was only concern for you and frustration in myself.”
“It’s all right,” I whispered, “I take things too seriously sometimes.”
He kissed me softly again and then tenderly brushed my cheek with his fingers.
“I love you, and you can take that seriously.”
“I love you too. Kellen?”
“Yes?” He whispered.
“Why didn’t you tell me about your family and your sister?”
He raised an eyebrow. “Why are you asking me that? My reasons no longer exist.”
I frowned. “What is that supposed to mean?”
He sighed. “Rhia, I really don’t want to argue right now.”
I folded my arms across my chest. Why did he always do this? Why did he always block my questions? At least the personal ones. And why did he constantly answer my questions with a question? It was very irritating.
“I’m not trying to argue with you Kellen. I just want to know the truth,” I told him quietly.
He narrowed his eyes. “I see, well, perhaps it is for the same reason you didn’t tell me about flying.”
My jaw dropped open and I stared at him. What did he mean?
“Kellen, I don’t-”
He cut me off. “Rhiannon, you told me that you ran away from that Minotaur and now I find out that you actually flew away over a cliff and almost died. It’s not really telling me the truth, is it?” He had guessed the truth with amazing accuracy.
I could see the frustration in his face. I stared at him for a moment. He was right, in a way.
“I guess you are partially right but I didn’t tell you because back then I wasn’t sure if you would think I was crazy or stupid. Everything was new and I was confused. Then I sort of forgot about it as we got closer. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner.” I tried to sound sincere. It was the truth.
He nodded and smiled. “Thank you, apology accepted.”
I smiled back and waited. He stared at me but didn’t say a word. I raised an eyebrow as the silence continued. His expression was very calm, too innocent. He knew what I was waiting for.
“Kellen? I’m waiting.” I finally broke the silence.
He shrugged his shoulders and looked into my eyes, not the least bit intimidated. I shouldn’t have, but I got angry with him.
“Fine, I thought we trusted each other. I thought we wer
e in a relationship. I guess I was wrong,” I fumed at him.
I pulled away from him and started stomping back toward the house. I hadn’t gone more than a few steps when he picked me up and brought me back to the tree. He let go of me but stood directly in front so I couldn’t leave again. I scowled at him.
I saw the corners of his mouth twitch in amusement. It actually made me even angrier. I looked away, refusing to acknowledge him at all. I heard him sigh softly. He very gently took my chin in his hands and turned my face back toward him.
“I have many reasons for the things I do as your Guardian. Sometimes that knowledge is better left unspoken. I felt it best not to mention my family. The less you knew the better. I was only trying to protect you. Please forgive me baby.” His voice was suppliant. I found it hard to resist.
“Kellen, you had plenty of time that you could have told me once we crossed the portal. It feels like you don’t trust me.” I could hear the hurt in my voice.
He seemed genuinely contrite. “I do trust you Rhiannon. I want you to be safe, more than anything. It’s my highest priority. Sometimes I make quick or harsh decisions based upon that. Please believe me.”
I sighed again. “Ok, but would you please promise me that you will try to communicate more?”
“Yes, of course. As long as you do the same.” His lips were trying to hide his smile.
I knew he was only teasing but he was right. We were involved in a dangerous world, where keeping tiny secrets could harm either of us, if not both. I made a vow to always be truthful with him front that moment on.
“Yes, Kellen, you are right. So go ahead and grin. I know you want to,” I told him with mild sarcasm in my voice.
He immediately smiled, looking absolutely ridiculous. His grin was broader than Batman’s nemesis the Joker. I rolled my eyes but smiled back. His eyes lost some of the humor as he lowered his head and kissed me. When he pulled back, the expression on his face was so soft and loving, my heart skipped a beat.
“Kellen,” I asked curiously, “Why do you love me?”
