Some time passed and I got used to the idea of staying with Aeliana. She had set me up a room at the palace just down the hallway from her. The physicians had been doing their very best to care for mom. It turned out she had a poison of the mind. I mean I knew that, but to hear a royal physician attempting to help her. Aeliana was an amazing girl.

That’s when the day came. I didn’t mean to be listening. I was just headed to the infirmary to visit Mother, like I did everyday, when the voices hit my ears.

“---, you have to understand. We have done everything we can — incurable — permanent.” This was it. I knew, on some level I knew, I couldn’t change it. Mom was going to die and there was nothing I, or anyone else, could do to stop it.

Aeliana came running from the doors of the infirmary. Her eyes met mine and she stopped cold. Her eyes filled with tears, as she lunged into my arms. Tears running down her face, she held onto me, so tight I couldn’t help but ... let go. We stood together crying, pleading, and begging The Gods for something that could never be.

***

When I opened my eyes, I was surprised to feel incredibly little pain. I felt around my body, bruises and cuts for sure, but the sharp aches and pains were all but gone. How long had I been asleep? This seemed almost surreal. During my inspection something else caught my eye. What had once been a beautiful dress was now not covering much of… well… anything. I clung to the blanket for coverage and looked around the room. On the table by the door, I saw a folded gown. It was a pale green and seemed to be an appropriate size.

I threw on the gown and walked into the main room of the cottage. In the morning light the place seemed brighter. The windows were open and sunlight filled the air. The room smelled of porridge and sugar, though I did not see anyone. Last I had seen him, Eák was lying on the floor in the east corner, beside the stone fireplace. But, where was he now?

It took just a few seconds. The sounds of cheers echoed from the outside.

The doors creaked as I pushed, opening up into the sun and vast fields of crops. There were the two boys again… Henry and Jay… Right? They were enjoying themselves as they sprinted whimsically across the fields. Then I saw him. Eák running full speed at these poor boys. Giggles and laughter continued, as I admired the light heartedness of the game.

“You are feeling better my dear?” Beside me stood the old woman.

Startled, I nearly jumped out of my skin. I didn't even notice her approach. Though I’m not sure about my senses at the moment.

“Much. Thank you.” I said, attempting some hesitation in my voice. It was important that I did not act above station here.

“Good. I am pleased.” She said, flashing me a gentle smile.

I heard a roar and when I looked back Eák was running straight for me. He grabbed me at the waist, lifted, and spun me in the air. I felt my heart flutter.

Lowering me to the ground, he moved his lips gently towards my ear. “Remember, we are newlyweds. Probably want to sell it.”

I didn’t need to see his face to know the smirk that he was most definitely wearing. I smiled and planted a gentle kiss on his cheek. By the look in his eyes, he was more than a little disappointed, which just made it all the more fun. I couldn’t hold back the smile.

“Ahh. So the bride is awake?” Henry bellowed.

“Seems so.” Jay following close behind. “Guess the fun is over.”

I chuckled. “Please. Don’t stop on my account.” My smile was genuine, which was a surprise to me. Eák and I had been to hell and back the past few days, he deserved to smile.

“What do you say?” Henry asked, turning to Eák.

“I’m beat. You guys win. We’ll play again later.”

The boys agreed begrudgingly and returned to the house.