“I can’t offer you much but what I do have is yours,” Akuchi replied.
“Thanks. That is the best offer I have received from all the others.”
How is it, what I offer is better than what she has received from the others? Surely the others had much more to offer than I do: A simple life of hardship and long work.
The King raised his hands. “Today we are gathered here to witness the union of these two people before the gods. Who comes before those assembled this day?”
“Follow my lead,” the Princess whispered to Akuchi. “I, Aife, Princess of the Dark Elves and Daughter to King Caradec, come and stand before this crowd and the gods.”
“I, Akuchi Rosethorn, come and stand in the presence of this crowd and before the gods,” Akuchi declared. “Thank you,” Akuchi whispered to Aife.
“Why do you come before the gods?” King Caradec asked.
“I come to marry this woman to secure peace for me and mine,” Akuchi answered.
“Do you, Aife, take this man for your husband, before the gods?”
“I take Akuchi Rosethorn, to take him as my husband.”
“Turn and make your pledges,” King Caradec instructed.
“I will go first, so you know the sacred words,” informed Aife.
“Thank you.”
They turned and stood facing each other. A courtier, appeared beside them took each of their hands, and placed them in each other before melting away.
I am holding the Princess’s hand. I hope I don’t revolt her.
“I, Aife, Princess of the Dark Elves take this man to be my husband in the sight of witnesses and before the gods, to have and to hold till the day that I die. What is mine is his and his is mine.”
Oh crap, she is finished, I hope I can remember everything she is saying. Her skin is so soft.
“I, Akuchi Rosethorn, take this woman to be my wife in the sight of witnesses and before the gods, to have and to hold till the day I die. What is mine is hers and hers is mine.”
Was that all that she said? I hope I didn’t miss anything.
The King stood in front of them, and raised his hands.
“A union is a sacred thing ordained by the gods for the security of women and children, the sanity of men, and for the procreation of children. A pact made in the sight of the gods is not one to be entered into lightly or cravenly, but with thought and consideration. One must be aware of the price a marriage union has on themselves and on the other. New duties and responsibilities are required of both parties. The man is called by the gods to serve and cherish his wife. The woman is called to love and honour her husband. Until the union is dissolved by the will of the gods through the death of one or both parties. A union of royal blood is required to be sanctified by the people and those gathered here serve as witnesses to the sacred union.” The King paused, letting the silence hang for a moment. “People of the dark elves do you sanctify this union between Akuchi Rosethorn and Aife Princess of the realm?”
A soft cheer broke out from the assembled peoples, the nobles and courtiers stood in behind their tables and clapped. Several stood arms folded shaking their heads.
“I now pronounce you husband and wife,” King Caradec bellowed over the cheering. “Now we feast.”
Akuchi led Aife up the steps and they took their places beside the King at the high table.
Huge platters of salads and fruits and nuts were placed in front of them and on all the tables.
Akuchi looked at the food. I hope that this is not all the food.
“Aife, is this all the food?” Akuchi asked leaning towards his new wife.
“No this is just the start. A wedding feast will have several rounds.”
“Will there be meat?” I hope I don’t offend anyone by asking.
“Of course, there will be meat.” She giggled. “Did you think that we wouldn’t eat meat?”
“The thought just crossed my mind,” he admitted.
“Don’t worry,” she placated, placing a hand on his arm.
She touched me. A quick warm feeling buzzed around the contact point.
“Eat. After the food we will go back to your farm.” She said.
Goblets of wine were passed around, Akuchi and Aife both took one.
Akuchi watched Aife’s hand as it came out from underneath the veil to grasp the goblet. It was clear of any paint. She had all the normal number of fingers. Thank the gods. Her arm had a thin wispy scar lines pock marked with old and current scars that ran along her lower arm, in an intricate pattern.
“Aren’t you meant to be painted?” Akuchi asked.
“Normally we are,” Aife agreed, “but today I am getting married, so I decided to forgo the paint, as you would not be painted yourself.”
“Is that why you are wearing the veil?” Akuchi asked.
Aife laughed, the laughter brought a smile to Akuchi’s face.
“What’s so funny?” he asked.
“You ask so many questions,” she replied placing a veiled hand on his arm.
A warm sensation travelled up his arm, causing a smile to spread on his lips.
“Don’t worry about the dark elf culture, I will be living in your world now, so it matters little.”
“You are not eating,” roared King Caradec. “Are you not hungry?”
The King nudged Akuchi in the back, pitching him forward a little. Akuchi winced and turned to face Caradec.
“I am hungry, my lord,” Akuchi placated. “I was trying to get to know your daughter a little better.”
The King roared with laughter. “There will be plenty of time for that.” Those words sent a rumble of laughter from the assembled people below, all who watched him over goblets and mugs.
Akuchi smiled, reached out to a plate, took a handful of nuts and berries, and placed them on the plate in front of him. Picking up a small nut he recognised, he popped it into his mouth and smiled once again at the King.
“Good.” Smiled the King. Standing in his place he raised his arms and declared, “bring on the entertainment.”
Akuchi felt a gentle touch on his leg and turned to look at his new wife.
“He seems very happy,” she commented, “we will talk more tonight.” She then turned and began to talk to the elf sitting next to her.
A young elf painted in purple swirls tapped Akuchi’s shoulder. Akuchi turned to look at him. He was lean and covered in warts and crisscrossed with scars. His nose out of joint and his top lip split in two showing his yellow crooked teeth. He said nothing, but extended his hand. Akuchi took his hand. The young elf shook his hand, then released it. The young elf bowed and walked away.
“Who was that?”
Aife turned and looked at Akuchi.
“Someone came up and shook my hand, bowed then left.”
“Painted purple?”
“Yes.”
“Oh, that would be my brother.”
“Can he speak?” Akuchi indicated his upper lip.
“Sure, he likes to pretend he can’t.”
“How long has he been doing it?”
“Most of his life. My father and I think he does it to get attention. Pay no heed to him, it’s our time now.”
Chapter 28 Returns
8th day of the 7th month 580th year of the 8th era
As darkness descended, the nobles and commoners left and went to their own beds. Finally, the King rose and bid Akuchi and Aife a good night before heading back to the Mother Tree. He staggered for a bit before two women with red stripes held him and escorted him back to his chambers.
Vel appeared beside Akuchi, holding Akuchi’s sword in one hand “I can take you home now.”
“Thank you.” Aife smiled. “I fear that my new husband has taken too much wine to remember the journey, let alone take us home himself.”
“It’s not that,” Akuchi slurred, “I can’t … do that … tree thingy.”
“It is true,” Vel agreed. “I brought him here, without the tree portals it could t
ake months,”
“Oh,” said Aife, “will he be able to make the journey?”
“The first time was quite a shock to his system,” said Vel, “I think that he will be able to make the journey.”
“He is quite drunk now.” Aife turned to Akuchi. “Will he make it?”
“Drink never prevented anyone from using the trees before,” Vel answered.
“Okay, what trees do I need to take?”
“I will show you,” Vel stated.
Aife helped Akuchi up and then helped him to walk to the end of the clearing, following Vel. At the edge of town, Aife took off her veil, and placed it at the foot of the tree. She took a deep breath and pulled Akuchi into the tree.
Darkness covered him and all senses were lost. Peace and calm washed over him, before a yank on his hip and he was propelled out of the tree.
Akuchi vomited all over the side of the tree; in his head pain seared through him. Emptying his stomach calmed his nerves.
“I forgot about the effect of tree travel,” Akuchi moaned.
“Come on, husband.”
Doubled over, Akuchi let Aife lead him down along the forest floor, leaf litter and moss on either side, guided his footsteps.
“Should we rest to let him recover?” Aife asked.
“We should,” Vel said, “but we need to be back at his place before nightfall, or it will be a bad omen.”
“Thank you for worrying about the portents of my marriage,” Aife said, “but if he doesn’t survive the trip, what sort of portent is that?”
“Both are pretty bad,” said Vel.
Akuchi vomited again over the leg of the tree.
“I feel much better.” Akuchi stood. “I swear.” He staggered and Vel rushed to catch him before he fell over the tree root and land back first into his own vomit.
Aife came along beside Akuchi and held up Akuchi.
“Which way is it?” she asked.
“This way.” Vel indicated with a wave of his hand holding the sword. Together they walked Akuchi down the forest trail.
The light from the sun was darkening and the light from the moss grew brighter.
“If we can make the last merge soon, we will be near the farm,” said Vel. “If we can make that one then at least we can say he made it home if not to his bed.”
“I can agree to that,” said Aife.
They rounded the bend in the tree and started down the path that would lead them straight to the next merging tree. An owl hooted in a tree as the moved past them.
Aife looked towards the sound. “What was that?”
“Just an owl,” replied Vel.
“They are pretty,” said Akuchi, his head hung low between them both. “I like owls.”
“Nothing to be worried about,” assured Vel. “They only hunt small prey.”
“I know that,” blustered Aife. “I just have never heard one before.”
Vel looked at Aife over Akuchi. Her eyes were wide and she kept turning her head to look at everything around her.
They arrived at the last merge tree, and Vel kept moving into it pulling Akuchi and Aife with him.
His skin pricked, and all sensations were lost. Akuchi’s stomach churned and heaved. Then came the tug and they all stepped out of the tree. Akuchi fell to the ground and moaned.
“His farm is that way,” Vel pointed.
“Thank you for helping me,” replied Aife.
“This is his weapon.” He handed Aife Akuchi’s weapon.
“Is he any good with it?” she asked gingerly taking the weapon from Vel. A faint voice murmured in the trees before falling silent.
“I don’t know but the light elf that guards his farm is obviously a master with her weapon,” Vel replied.
Aife placed the weapon on the ground and hefted Akuchi’s head into his lap.
Vel turned around and stepped back into the tree.
Aife and Akuchi were alone at last.
The cool sea air washed over Akuchi’s face and he roused.
“We are nearly at your home now,” Aife soothed.
Akuchi attempted to stand but staggered. Aife caught him, standing herself, before he fell back to the ground.
“I want to see the farm before I sleep.”
“Okay husband. Let’s go.” Aife said and shouldered Akuchi once more, helping him through the increasing underbrush as the forest thinned. They made their way slowly, for with each sudden movement Akuchi’s stomach heaved. Breaking through the underbrush and rounding a tree, they came upon the small humble farm that Akuchi had begun.
Three fields cordoned off with small wooden fences, had plants in various stages of growing crops. One had small grain stalks, another the rambling vines of a legume and another only had shoots of what would be later tubers. At the far end of the fields, a small hovel made from logs and dried mud stood. Two buildings: one tall and narrow, the other short and squat-Akuchi’s home and his storage silo. In front was a small campfire with Aquillia sitting behind it in front of the small wooden door, wearing a short skirt and her sword strapped to her back.
Aquillia stood, rushed forward, and confronted Aife with her double-bladed sword.
“Who are you, Dark One?” Aquillia asked.
“I am Aife Princess to the dark elves,” she replied. “My husband is drunk and needs to be put to bed.”
“And I am the Queen of the light elves.” Aquillia folded her arms.
“Nice to meet you, your majesty.”
Aquillia eyes widened. She turned her head and looked at Akuchi. She shouldered the sword on her strap and then took a hold of Akuchi opposite Aife.
“Let’s get him to bed,” Aquillia said.
“Thank you, your majesty.” Aife gritted her teeth and followed Aquillia’s instructions.
They moved into the small squat building through the wooden door and lay Akuchi down on the bed of rushes. He groaned and then started snoring. Aife set his sword against the log wall and then sat on the dirt floor beside him.
The room was sparse, only a small single bed of rushes with no windows, the roof thatched with straw. In one corner sat a small metal pot and a simple wooden spoon inside.
“My husband must lead a very simple life,” commented Aife.
“How did he become your husband?” Aquillia asked.
“We got married today. My father the King offered me too Akuchi to keep our secret.”
“What did Akuchi get in return?” Aquillia asked.
“Peace from our attacks,” answered Aife.
“He did go out for that purpose.”
“Why did the Princess of the dark elves marry a poor farmer?”
“My father wanted me out of the way so my brother’s ascension to the throne will be clear.”
“You’re definitely out of the way here.” Aquillia said looking around the humble house.
“I hope it’s far enough away.”
They lapsed into silence watching Akuchi.
Chapter 29 Duty
9th day of the 7th month 580th year of the 8th era
Akuchi awoke. His head was on fire. He opened his eyes slowly. I am at home. His head started pounding. He closed his eyes. I didn’t drink that much last night ... Last night I was with the King... I got married... How did I get home? A faint memory of complete blackness followed by him puking several times, while a woman stood next to him. Is that my wife? He searched his memory for her face but none came, just images of her legs.
A soft humming wafted over his thoughts and Akuchi groaned. The humming stopped and a wood-on-metal clang followed by the door creaking open. He opened his eyes. Pain seared through his retinas again. He caught a flash of a woman with the light behind her. Hair cropped short, she was slim and naked. He moaned again and the door closed with a gentle thud. He opened his eyes again. The room was darker, and he could see clearly, though with great pain.
“You are awake, that is good,” a soft gentle voice came to him.
“I think I am hung over,�
� he answered.
“Yes, you did well to drink so much with the King.”
“So, that really did happen. Did I vomit near you?”
“Yes, but with that much wine, and a merge, you did well.”
“I didn’t do anything to hurt you? Did I?” he asked his voice rising.
“No, you fell asleep after arriving home.”
“Tell me, Aife,” he began. “Do you like my home?”
“It is very basic.”
“I am sorry; I have been focusing on growing food for the fort, not building my house.”
“No big deal,” she replied. “I think I can make it a home.”
“Good,” he murmured.
The smell of food wafted into the house, stewing vegetables and water. His stomach grumbled.
“You are hungry,” she exclaimed as she arose and exited the building. The light seared his eyes. He blinked and the pain eased.
“You can cook?” he asked.
“Yes.” She giggled, through the open door.
Akuchi got up, his head protesting each movement, and shuffled out like an old man.
The sun was well above the sky, indicating mid-morning. Aife sat on a log with a wooden spoon in her hand, leaning over the pot that sat on a wooden tripod, hanging over a roaring fire.
Akuchi frowned. When did I get a tripod?
Aife’s back was covered in red warts and laced with small white scars, that crisscrossed her back. Akuchi shuffled and sat on the log next to Aife and inspected his new wife closely for the first time. She was unpainted, her skin a dark brown. Her legs were perfectly formed and toned with lean muscles. Her face was pock marked with pimples, warts, and scars. Her nose was bent to the left and her lips looked swollen. Under the bottom lip on the right was a huge wart that had a few strands of hair sticking out.
Now I understand…. she has been marked quite heavily by the curse.
His eyes travelled down her body. Her breasts were small and barely present. Her pink nipples stuck out and her areolas were large and uneven. Her stomach was flat but her skin was pulled so tight over her chest that Akuchi could count her ribs. It took him a great effort to look at his wife.
Has she been starved? She is really ugly far more so than any of the other elves that I have seen, even those at the baths.
The Bloodwood Curse: An Epic Fantasy Adventure of Swords, Magic and Romance. (The Rosethorn Chronicles Book 1) Page 22
