Song of Ardor

Characters:

Lylliann
Sayur





The waves rocked the ship in a pleasant motion, small chunks of ice clicking against the metal cased stern of the boat. Seals on nearby icebergs slipped into the water to hide, braving what hunted them in the depths then be seen by these... humans that were not humans. A man at the helm flicked his ears, them being black and frilled with hints of red along the edges of the scales. "King Tremane, our hunters have spotted a pod of whales to the East." a bowed servant told him, bowing low.

The King nodded, "Have the Hunters take chase. Two whales should be sufficient, I would not like to kill a whole family." Bowing, the servant left him to relay his orders. Very soon after four ships, much slimmer then this one split through the ice with ease and flying forward with the strong wind. A spray in the air in the distance revealed the position of the whales.

The air was cold and stung the throat when inhaled too deeply. Sayur wasn't too fond of this sort of weather. Dressed in a thick, formal coat, he exited his quarters and walked down the ship. His posture was perfect and his hands were properly folded behind his back, fighting his urge to shiver. Although his ears were back, Sayur's hearing was keen enough to navigate through the ship's deck easily. "I hope this doesn't take long." he said, stepping next to the King. "This weather is atrocious." Sayur's clouded eyes stared off to the horizon.

As they sailed forwards, the whales began to breach the surface. King Tremane's eyes narrowed, as he saw something that was not a whale leap through the air and disappear back into the dark water. Something white. "Sayur, what is your empathy saying about this area, besides our crew." The King's eye twitched as he saw it again, for only a brief second.

"Hm?" Sayur's ear perked slightly at his King's request. "Nothing but small schools of fish, penguins near the burg to the East and of course, a family of wha-" Then he sensed something. Something foreign yet familiar at the same time. His ears rose up completely as he focused. "Actually- there is something out there with the whales." Sure of himself now, he faced the King, "Sire, this being is sentient." 

The King leaned back slightly, and watched Sayur's reaction. "I wonder what it could be..." His black eyes narrowed then turned back to the water. "Sayur, find the captain, tell him to bring us closer to the hunters. I don't want it harmed." However the adviser did not have to move, as the sailor in the crow's nest shouted something. "There's something in the water! Its... its not a whale!"

Sayur relayed the message to the Captain despite the lookout's call. "What sentient can live in such cold conditions?" he asked, primarily to himself.

Tremane did not respond as their ship zipped forward, moving closer to the Hunters who stalked the whales, their harpoons ready to fire. One harpoon fired, striking a whale in the side. The whale thrashed in the water, as something yowled in anger at this. A white blur erupted from the waves, snapping through the wire that held the spear in the creatures side. bursting through the foam again, a beast, lithe and coiling in the air screamed its defiance at them. It was hard to tell how long it was, but it dwarfed the humanoids easily, with a jaw that could swallow a mans head whole.

As the distance closed between the King's ship and the hunters, Sayur was able to pick up a crisp empathetic 'image' of the creature. If that wasn't enough, her roar confirmed his speculations. This was a Himmel. "Remarkable." he said airily under his breath.

The sailors gasped as whispers arose. "Sea goddess... Sea goddess..."

"Sea Goddess?" Tremane repeated, looking in awe at this magnificent beast, one that Sayur claimed was sentient. It always amazed him how their true forms so diminished how they looked with collars on. But it helped with keeping their violent population calm. The creature roared again, then turned its silver gaze on a harpoon ship. With a yowl it attacked, clawing up the boards of wood as if they were paper.

The ship started to bob up and down loosely as the water thrashed about around them. Sayur bent his knees a bit, balancing himself on the ship's deck. "I'll be damned...." He faced his King, "Sire, I know of this species. She is a Himmel! They are a rare species that live outside of your kingdom. Though- I've never heard of them living in such a cold environment." This was the first female he had ever seen since his mother left when he was a kit.

With the crew yelling, the harpoon ship's crew began to panic as they turned their harpoons to her. With a loud pop! A harpoon shot towards her, which she hissed at before dodging quickly. "No! Don't hurt her!" The king was spellbound, "She's beautiful, and a suitable mate, the one I've been waiting for..." One of the crew looked over, and tried to stop the second gun, but it was too late. The harpoon was away, and this one she didn't know was coming. With a yelp it hit her side and she fell into the water.

Sayur's ears turned towards the King's command, a bit caught off guard by it. "Fools!" he shouted as the female plummeted into the ocean. Not waiting for permission, Sayur called out with both his voice and empathy, "Net and pull her up! NOW!" 

"NOW!" Tremane bellowed right after, gripping Sayur's shoulder in anger at his crew. He would never hurt his favorite adviser, but his motion toward him was purely out of appreciation for his fast actions. The crew rushed to get her, but their nets were on the other side of their damaged ship. In the waves, the whales breached, pushing the limp Himmel to the surface as if she was their own.

"She really is a sea goddess..." The King murmured quietly.

"And she is going to die unless we get her to a doctor." Sayur said quickly, not wanting to see a death of his fellow kin.

"Her wounds will be less grievous if we collar her." Tremane muttered, "I doubt she will submit to the process... but we must save her." Quickly, the king moved away to his quarters quickly, retrieving a collar from his personal collection. It was encrusted with jewels that matched his own, his 'evening' collar. "This will do."

The captain called for a gangplank so the king could board the other ship and inspect the barely breathing Himmel.

Sayur hustled alongside, though slightly behind Tremane. As they walked onto the other ship, he leaned forward, "I've told the medic in the hold to come up immediately."

Tremane nodded as they approached the animal, the Himmel groaning in pain as blood spilled across the planks. Hurriedly, the King removed his cloak and tucked it over an arm before he went to her long neck. His eyes roamed down her form, pleased, yet worries for her health. Quickly he opened the collar and moved it toward her neck where the magic imbued strip of rare metal widened to fit her coils. When he clasped it on, the sea goddess was surrounded by a soft glow as she began to shrink. The harpoon clattered to the deck, as a naked woman was revealed unconscious on the floor. Tremane covered her instantly, barking orders for the sailors to clean up the mess. Very unlike the king, he actually picked her slim and small form up himself and carried her to his main ship.

Before Sayur hurried along behind his king, he moved to the edge of the ship. His keen ears could pick up the whales as they slowly descended into the water once again. They let out low, sorrowful cries that quickly faded into the thick ocean as they fled. Bowing back his ears once more, Sayur headed back to the royal vessel to catch up with Tremane. It was then that the medic rushed out of the hold with his supplies. 

The Himmel had soaked the kings bed with sea water and blood, but the wound in her side was not nearly as bad as it would have been to take care of if she had remained in her true form. Her hair was short and straight, a very light almost platinum colored with pale golden skin. For a creature living in the most remote places, she was rather beautiful in humanoid form, with long silver ears tipped off in small diamond fins. Tremane had her mostly covered up, but one elegant hand hung from the mattress.

"Goodness goodness! Hm-hmm... let's see, yes?" the medic scurried to the bedside for her examination. He was a short, portly man but very good at his job. Standing at the bedside, he carefully adjusted the sheets so that he could see the wound. "Oh dear, yes...this is quite the gash- MmmHmm...yes." The doctor's thick mustache moved a bit as he spoke. Pulling up a stool, he sat at the bedside and opened up his kit of supplies. "She has lost a lot of blood, yes." Taking out a small bottle, he poured a liquid on a gauze for which he would use to clean her wound. Luckily there wasn't much to clean given that she had been stabbed only moments ago. The doctor proceeded to string up a needle, getting ready to stitch.

Sayur stayed back near the door to let the Doctor work. With his hands behind his back, he kept a high chin. Sure, this was the first time in years that he had seen a Himmel, yet he remembered what his father told him about females. Shallow, soulless beasts. Sayur took a glance to Tremane.

The King looked quite worried, so intrigued by the female he couldn't take his eyes off her. "I want to keep her unconscious, until we get back to the castle." He ordered quietly. There was a slight blush on his cheeks as he had seen her breasts for a moment, but did not comment on it.

The doctor nodded and went on tending to her wound.

Sayur took a step towards Tremane "Uncle- my father has observed and been in contact with female Himmels before. He told me stories of how they are savage, mindless creatures. Even if it is sentient, are you sure procreation is a good idea? For all we know, it eats it's own young. Surely a beast like this would taint your bloodline."

Tremane shook his head, "I wish you had seen her burst from the water Sayur, she was not mindless, savage yes... she is strong. She protected those whales as if they were her own. How could this beautiful thing eat her own young? If anything, this proves she would be a valuable mate. No... She will strengthen my bloodline." His eyes narrowed, "Enough, I don't want to hear more on that matter."

Sayur figured he would say as much. Bowing his head, he took a small step back. He held back a sigh, secretly hoping the Himmel wouldn't make it. It was a terrible thing to wish upon one's own kind but he knew that he would have to put up with a female being around the kingdom. Perhaps even serve their spawn. Sayur couldn't help but grind his teeth carefully in his mouth.

The doctor checked her teeth, then with his hand under the sheets, other things before checking the wound again. "She'll be fine. In fact, she is in a prime age, and capable of reproducing just fine. I believe her to be about 24-28 in humanoid years." Taking a towel, the rotund man proceeded to dry off her hair and ears.

Releasing a small sound of relief, the King took a large hand and caressed her cheek, a smile on his lips, "Good."

"What shall I order the crew, sire?" Sayur chimed in, purposing trying to ruin this oh so romantic moment. "Is the whale hunt on?"

"No." Tremane commanded, "We go home."



A few weeks later found them in port in Tremane's kingdom, the female still kept under by the doctor. They brought her up to a room separate from the king's till she was used to life here, close to Sayur's and his in case she managed to get out and get lost.

The poor thing had lost weight, being unable to eat on her own and was quite weak. Waking her up now would be best for her health.

"Do it." Tremane ordered. Sayur stood next to him, as always.

Her eyes fluttered open as the doctor injected the needle then stood back, behind the pair nervously. The dark gray of her eyes was wild, untamed, but her body was weak. Dressed in a simple nightgown, the Himmel hissed at them and fought to get into a crouched position on the bed. Sloppily, she fell to the tiled floor, ears back, flashing teeth and clearly angry. "Sayur..." The king murmured, watching her, "I want you to teach her how to speak, and how to properly act. She is no longer in the wild, and she needs to adapt."

"She is so primitive- it may take a while." Sayur explained, listening as she scurried back like cornered prey. "Are you sure that I must teach her?" He really didn't want to. Sayur would prefer it if she just escaped. Though- maybe this could be arranged.

"Yes, I want you to teach her. If she is to be my queen, I want her civilized and proper." Then in a quieter voice, "How long do you think it will take?" The king wrung his hands, hoping that it wouldn't take too long.

"Hopefully not too long. With my expertise it shouldn't take long. I'll do my best and will report to you by the end of the week. From there I will be able to tell how long it will take." Sayur explained, not liking the words coming out of his mouth.

"Good..." The king smiled, then turned swiftly, "I will leave you to it then," and he left with a swish of his robes. The Himmel hissed menacingly.

Sayur waited until he could no longer hear the King's footsteps. His attention shifted to the Himmel on the tiled floor. With a sigh, he stepped forward and crouched down. "Alright, come on you..." Sayur reached forward to grab her arm and help her up onto her feet.

Skittering to the side, she snarled and slashed in front of her with her hand curled into a claw shape. There was no way she would let him touch her if she could help it. Unless... she went to climb onto the bed to get to higher ground but slipped on the sheets, a light sound of surprised making it past her lips.

This was going to take a while. He didn't even have to use his empathy to tell she was frightened. Sayur sighed and knelt down on the floor with her. He wasn't too pleased that his formal pants were now wrinkled, but the servants would take care of that later. For now, he didn't make any quick movements to startle her. Sayur's clouded eyes just stared off into space, above the Himmel. His large ears lifted up slowly. 

Crouched on the bed, the Himmel's features showed surprise at this, and she didn't move, the only sound she made was her shallow breathing. Curiousness filtered from her emotions towards him, her hands relaxing against the bed.

It was working...perfect. Sayur lifted his hand slowly and rested it on the edge of the bed, palm side up. By these movements, he was hoping to tell her that he meant her no harm.

The Himmel shifted her weight to her legs, a sign of nonaggression in animals and cocked her head, one ear up in the air and another slightly relaxed against her shoulder. She cheeped at him, curiousness over flooding him now. She was not stupid, even though she grew up wild, but she was naive.

"Stupid female..." Sayur muttered, moving his hand forward a bit. All he needed to do was touch her. If she warmed up to strangers this quickly, how the hell did she survive in the wild for so long?

A growl grew within her throat at his getting nearer, her eyes narrowed as she watched him. There was something familiar about him however, and she let his trespasses continue.

Sayur let a light purr vibrate in his throat. He by no means was enjoying this duty, but perhaps it would help calm her down. Sayur resisted all urges to lunge forward and smack her for being so rude. How dare she growl at him?!

Sitting down, the Himmel stared at him, the growl slowly fading. This was interesting in her eyes, that he would exude such unhappiness, then purr. She suddenly relaxed fully as she lacked the energy to be defensive, her eyes half lidded but her concentration remained intact. Her eyes fully closed, then opened with widened pupils as one thought was shared between them.

Friend?

Sayur's ear twitched a bit. His pupils remained white as he replied,
Yes. He kept still now, not wanting to startle her.

Her neck bobbed as she moved her head to be able to look at his hand - a very Himmelish movement. Slowly, she inched her hand forward, lifted it, then placed it gently into his.

With his pale eyes still staring through her, he spoke in the most comfortable way that Himmels can. Well it's about time. My knees are killing me and these pants are pure Vicuna.

Who... who are you? Why did you hurt my family? She asked angrily, her shock at hearing his 'voice' passed up by her curiousness and anger.

No...what? No, not at all. Sayur pushed himself up from the floor and kept her hand in his. I am the King's most trusted adviser, Sayur.

You hurt my family. She insisted again, not letting him pass up the question. Looking up at him, the Himmel's body quivered before she let out a breath of realization. You... you are like me, are you... me? We are the same.

Sayur almost laughed at her last remark. Oh goodness no, we aren't the same at all! I'm a highly respected authority figure. You are.... He tilted his head, ...extremely uncivilized. But I suppose on the more simple of terms relating to species...yes, we are the same. By family, do you mean the whales? In which case, no- I didn't touch them. He didn't go on from there.

Her head lowered, then looked at her side where the wound still was bandaged beneath her clothing. Why did they hurt me? Why didn't you stop them? From her swirling emotions, and her realization that he was of her same species and a male. You will be my mate now, yes? I have never seen or talked to anyone before, and we are the same! She blinked up at him, ears down submissively.

"Hurckargh!" Sayur coughed as he immediately began choking on his own spit. He turned his head and hacked into his free hand. Gathering himself, he turned around and asked What?!

She grew confused at that. Lylliann and Sayur... will now be mates? You are me, I am you, we must be together because of that. The Himmel leaned forward, sniffing at his scent eagerly.

"Woah woah..." Sayur leaned back, away from her sniffs. He lifted a finger and pressed it against her forehead, pushing Lylliann back. You've that it all wrong. You already have a mate picked out...the King.

Is he like me as well? She asked, curious. I can only be with someone like me. So have my dreams told me.

Well your dreams are wrong. Sayur said flat out. Give him a chance, he really has taken a liking towards you. Not sure why... but you will be a very important figure from now on. Your offspring will hold great importance to this kingdom.

-But he's not like you, She let out a whine, I want to be with you. Lylliann's lip quivered unhappily as her hand curled within his.

That's not going to happen. Sayur said flat out, not wanting to give her any hope. Besides, my father has told me stories of your type and I would rather not. The king is to be your mate but first I have been given the honor of teaching you how to be civil. He said 'honor' with a severe distaste.

She shook her head, No, Lylliann's ears fell back, I want to go home.

I don't think you realize just how far you are from 'home.' Plus, it's illegal for intelligent beings to remain animalistic. Sayur figured he should clarify, In other words, you are never allowed to go back into your Himmel form.

Himmel? What's a Himmel? She asked, curious to no end. She did not even know what form she was in now. Why am I not allowed to be who I am?

A Himmel is our species but you must never tell anyone that I am one, hear me? Sayur warned with utmost seriousness. They know you are one...but they can never know that I am. He sat on the bed and brushed off his pants before continuing. You are allowed to be who you are...but you must stay looking like this. Looking like anything else is wrong and not allowed here. Which is why I am to teach you how to act.

Her eyes widened at that as the information burrowed into her memories. Himmel... Why must you keep yourself secret? And... this- She raised an arm, This form is ugly, not me. I am beautiful and strong, this form is weak. She remained silent for a moment, then, I will keep your secret, but I would like something in return.

Sayur resisted for a moment and turned his head to the side a bit. Finally he gave a serious expression and said, I'm not mating with you. figuring that would be what she wanted.

Lylliann actually giggled, No. I promise to keep your secret, and I promise I won't leave, but I want to be released from this form for one night. You can come with me. I just want to sing to the whales one last time. Her emotions grew wistful, and a low hum grew in her throat, her voice quite memorizing.

I'm afraid I can't do that. Sayur said honestly, No offense, but there is no way we will be able to catch you again if you refuse to come back. The King will have to decide if you can be in your old form or not. Perhaps he will grant your wish?

I won't leave you. Lylliann whined, Now that I have found a male of my kind I can never leave. Please, just one night... One night for a lifetime of silence.

I'll consider it. Sayur replied, not liking the idea of going out into the wild at such a late hour. Especially since he would have to take her himself. Perhaps another night.

Okay. Lylliann nodded, pleased enough with his response. Now, tell me of this land and why I must hide what I am.



A week had passed and Sayur was starting to see some progress in Lylliann's speaking. He had arranged that a small table be placed in her quarters. There was a white tablecloth over it and a wide array of silverware and glasses. Everything was set up perfectly by the servants and butlers. Sayur pulled her chair back, waiting for her to sit.

Lylliann appeared from a side chamber, dressed in a light evening dress and thin slippers. Her hair had been pulled up and out of her face, a slight look of anger in her features as a servant scuttled out from behind her. "She still refuses to wear makeup sir," She uttered, bowing again and again. Lylliann snorted, her lip twitching as she resisted a snarl. "I do not need it."

"Thank you." Sayur said to the servant girl, gesturing that she may leave. "Remember what I said about rudeness?" he asked, lifting a brow. 

"What is rude is when she shoves that ball of fluff into my face, expecting me to let her rub my face in dust." Lylliann retorted, sitting down with a light sound of annoyance.

"All good young ladies of the palace wear makeup. I've never seen the difference myself, but it is just how things work around here. You are going to have to get used to it." Sayur said, also with an annoyed tone, shoving her chair to the table before sitting down himself. "Now what does a fair young lady do first at the dinner table?" he tested.

Lylliann looked to the right, her lips twitching again. Grabbing the napkin, she pulled it onto her lap, folding it once before resting her hands in her lap.

Sayur did the same and began, "I am going to pretend to be the King, respond accordingly." he told her. Straightening his spine, he leaned back and said, "Miss Lylliann, you look absolutely lovely this evening."

Resisting the urge to believe he himself actually felt this way, "Why thank you, I abhor your choice of dress myself." Lylliann responded in kind, not realizing her error.

Sayur cleared his throat and coughed, "Adore." he corrected. Going back into this 'king-like' character, he went on. "Could you tell me a bit more about your kind? How long does it take for your eggs to hatch?" he asked suddenly. It was straightforward, yes...but hell- the King wanted to bang her practically right when he saw her. Who was to say he wouldn't ask something like this?

"Adore." Lylliann repeated, then an eyebrow raised at the question, "I do not know my dear king, I do not remember my parents, nor have I... met another of my kind before." Her eyes glanced to Sayur at that, as she had been staring at a wine glass before.

Sayur picked up his glass and took a sip. He lifted a hand and signaled a butler who was standing near the doorway. Before long, several severs waltzed in and set their food down before them. Lifting the silver cover, they revealed cooked steak with a veggie side. They bowed and left soon afterward. "I would like to lay with you tonight." he began, "It would make my heart sore if you would refuse."

Now Lyllian was staring quite hard at Sayur, not sure whether he was still playing the king or not. Digging into her memories she managed a way out, "M-my King, don't you agree that that... act should wait till our marriage?" She squirmed in her seat, uncomfortable with the subject. The Himmel still stuck fast to her belief that she could only lay with one of her kind.

A grin crept on Sayur's face. This was a perfect response to come from a young, respectable lady. Truthfully, it was the best thing she could say at a dinner table about the subject. Not replying to it, he said, "Shall we eat then?" He took liberties and took hold of his silverware and began his meal.

Keeping her emotions in check, Lylliann took a hold of her silverware and awkwardly cut at the meat, skipping her vegetables entirely. She still was a bit clumsy at using the utensils, but somehow she managed. "My King, do you remember our agreement that we made the day we met?" She asked boldly.

Sayur tried to recall what the King might've promised to her. Not thinking of anything, he asked, "I'm sorry my dear, but what was that again?"

Inwardly smirking, "Oh, that's right, it was Sayur. Silly me to get you two mixed up."

Sayur wasn't amused and a low growl resignation deep in his throat. Was she not taking this seriously?

Her hearing picked up the growl just fine, and she growled heartily in return. "You know of what I speak of, and I've waited, patiently. I've taken all your lessons, all your condescension-" It was amazing how many words she had picked up on over the last week, "And I've had enough. I'd like what you promised me, for I have done as you wished for long enough without a respite."

Sayur sighed and placed a piece of meat into his mouth. Thinking as he chewed, he swallowed and said. "Fine. The King is doing business with our neighboring nations tonight. We must leave soon if we wish to be back by sunup." It was evening and they would have to leave within the hour in order to make it out to sea properly.

Lylliann smiled, and radiated happiness, "It is settled then." She quickly finished her steak, still ignoring the side dishes and dabbed at her lips besides herself. She had been quick to adapt, just as the King had predicted.

"Dress warmly. I won't remove your collar until we are out of sight." he replied, unbelieving that he was doing this. His clothing was going to need to be ironed after this, he just knew it. He ate his steak calmly, allowing her to get ready as he ate.

Standing quickly, Lylliann dashed to her side room to change into a riding outfit they had given her. Complete with a black coat made from cotton, she was ready in a manner of minutes.

"And what's so important about a couple of mindless fish anyway?" Sayur asked, taking his last bite and finishing his wine.

"They aren't fish." Lylliann reprimanded, "They are whales. They are my family, even if these are not the whales I grew up with. We are connected through song, and in that we are all..." She searched for the right word, "We are all kin because of that."

"Well- has it ever occurred to you that Himmels aren't supposed to live in water?" he asked rather condescendingly. "Although- how can I expect you to have common sense since you think whales are your family." the thought of it was laughable.

"Has it never occurred to you that we weren't supposed to live as humanoids?" She responded coldly, anger in her features. And she hadn't meant it literally. Lylliann shook her head, unsure why she stayed here anyway. Sayur's blind gaze went past her, he never saw her as a female of his own race. There was a hatred behind him, blocking him from seeing the true Himmel inside her, and inside himself. She could not stop her yearning as she looked at him for his companionship, even when he treated her like this.

"Uhm- no. It hasn't." he said honestly, a cold tone to his voice. "Live amongst a bunch of wild, mindless animals...always scrounging for my food and never know the luxury of royalty? I would rather not."

"They are not mindless..." Lylliann whispered, "When they sing to me, you shall see."

"Sure... I'll just have a mind blowing revelation that whales are intelligent beings and will even stand on the picket line to protest whaling." Sayur mocked, standing from the table and pushing his chair in. "Care to follow me to my quarters? I must grab a coat."

She nodded, defeated for the moment and stepped out while he held the door open for her. There were no servants around in the hall, that they could see, and sense.

Despite being blind, Sayur was able to navigate just fine. Just in case though, he sensed and listened ahead for people. His quarters was a few halls away from the King's, though in the same area of the palace. Arriving, he opened the door for her and allowed her to step in while he went to his closet.

Looking around curiously, Lylliann sat down at a dais while she waited.

Sayur felt the fabrics in the closet, unable to see them, this is what he had to do to tell which one was which. He pulled out a relatively dark, heavy jacket. The one he probably should've brought with him when they went whaling and found Lylliann. "Alright, let's hurry..." he said, moving out of the door once more.

Following him closely, Lylliann made note of where they went, in case of a possible escape in the future. They made their way through the palace, effectively keeping out of sight from anyone wandering around. Eventually they reached the door to the harbor.

Sayur grabbed her hand and pulled her down to the docks where he helped her onto a small sailboat. There was a light breeze but it was just enough to sail out. "Now remember....only a few hours, okay?" he looked at her seriously as he pushed off of the dock.

"Okay," She murmured, excited. It took a bit of rowing, but eventually they made it so far out in the bay that they were completely alone. Lylliann stood in the boat, glancing back at Sayur, then dropped her robes. Being that he could not see her, and that she did not see the difference between naked and clothed, she was not embarrassed. "I am ready." She said, while crouching before him.

"Alright, come here and turn around." Sayur said quickly. He wanted her to spin around soon in fear that she would see his blushing cheeks. Sayur worked at the collar, unlatching the complex locks. Before taking it off completely, he said, "Perhaps you should go into the water first...I don't want my boat to sink."

"I'll be fine, and I won't sink it." Lylliann said confidently, unsure of his emotions at the moment.

Sayur was primarily nervous. Nervous that the King would find out, nervous that someone spotted them and even nervous about her not keeping her end of the bargain. "Alright-" he undid the last latch and pulled the collar off.

The glow was muted that surrounded her naked form, and as she grew in size so did she hover in the air, the natural Himmel ability to fly without wings. To his 'vision', she went from a small, frail looking woman to a mighty creature that dwarfed the boat. Gently, Lylliann leaned her head forward, touching her nose to his forehead, Thank you, I will return, as promised. With that said she let out a cry of excitement and twisted over backward into the water with a fairly small splash.

Her size was a bit daunting, especially as she tapped his forehead. He had only been in his Himmel form once or twice before when he was a child. Exhaling and coming to terms that he had just "released" his King's mate, Sayur fell back onto his seat and leaned back, listening to the waves.

Lylliann by his senses was about forty feet below the surface where the boat was, alone in the water. A few minutes went by, and still nothing. Then... a pod of whales raced in from the north. Slowly they approached, humming to one another. Then the songs began. It was an eerie melody, one that could not be heard by human ears, but to Sayur, it was faded, but clear.

Sayur's attention was taken off of the water when he heard the whales nearing. He sat up and lifted his ears up curiously to listen more clearly. That didn't take too long.

An unearthly hymn rose up from the water, gaining volume slowly. Such a song normally should never have been able to be heard above the surface, much less so distinct as it was. Lylliann's stunning voice was higher then the whales, the harmony one could say. The whales sang to her, about her, and about themselves. There was no denying the peace the song brought about to anyone listening.

Sayur kept his extremely sensitive ears up and alert. He hadn't before heard such sounds from a Himmel. Her voice was beautiful and calming. The King would be pleased to hear about this. Even from his little boat, her voice seemed to hypnotize him into a state of pure bliss. Content, he listened on.

An hour it lasted with Lylliann rising for air every few minutes, till whales began leaving, one at a time till they joined each other on the edges. Lylliann rose to the surface for the final time, and stuck her head over the edge of the boat. Her fur didn't drip too badly, as it was slightly waterproof from the oil on her skin for being in human form for so long. She crooned, waiting for the collar sadly.

Sayur had nodded off only about ten minuets ago from the music. When he heard the water droplets hit the wooden planks of the boat, he woke. Ears perked, he could hear Lylliann from her breathing. Reaching for the collar, Sayur stood up and walked closer. He reached forward and clicked the collar. When her body shrank and shifted into a humanoid form, Sayur knelt down to help her into the boat.

One final whale slipped in the water under her till she was level with the boat, and waited till she was pulled in before he disappeared back into the water. Shivering violently, Lylliann grabbed for her clothes quickly, annoyed briefly at how weak their humanoid forms were. The thick cotton soaked up the water, but did not keep her warm, and she continued shivering after she was dressed.

"Are you alright?" Sayur asked, considering this must've been an emotional night for her. "The King will be more then pleased to hear your song sometime, I guarantee it."

"It's f-freezin-g." Lylliann uttered quietly, ignoring the last part of what he said. It would be a while before she would want to actually sing in front of anyone other then her beloved whales.

"What on earth were you expecting? This isn't exactly the tropics." Sayur explained, adjusting the sail to head back home.

"W-what are the... t-tropics?" She asked through bouts of shivering, then, "My clot-thes aren't keeping me-e warm..."

"On the other side of the continent basically. Ocean waters are much warmer there." Sayur explained. He sighed and slipped off his thick coat, tossing it to her. "There- now stop shivering."

Lylliann took it from him gratefully, wrapping it around her small frame. The ride back to the castle was long, and for the female Himmel, cold. No matter what she did she could not stop shivering, even if the jacket protected her from the outer cold. It was as if it froze her blood.

Sayur tried to ignore her shaking but it was the only thing he could here along with the slow waves on the boat. How the hell could she STILL be cold? "Are you alright?"

Sniffing, "I don't think so." It was strange for her to suddenly yearn for a warm bed and a fire, strange to her still wild mind. These humanoids were weak... she was weak. Tears dripped from her cheeks to the coat, her emotions overwhelming her. Even stranger that she kept her word to go back with him when it became ever more evident to her that she belonged in the wild.

Sayur may not like the assignment he was given to train her, nor did he have much like for female Himmels, but he surely wasn't heartless. Adjusting the sail and tying it off to hold itself, he moved to her seat. Sitting next to her, he said, "Bring your knees up to your chest like this." Gently, Sayur grabbed her legs and assisted her in the movement. Immediately it was apparent that she truly was freezing. "Uhm- here.." his voice faded as he wrapped his arms around her back and front, pulling her into a warm hug.

Lylliann sniffed again, cuddling against him to retain as much heat as she could. The trip went a lot quicker after that for her, and her shivers were mostly gone when they arrived. Unknown to Sayur, but there was a soft glow coming from the distant horizon. It would only take a few minutes, but they still needed to hurry.

Sayur docked the boat and sloppily tied it to the docks. "Come on..." he said, helping her off. He took a quick glance to the boat, making sure they left nothing behind. "Move it, move it." he said under his breath to her as they scurried to the stairs to enter the castle.

Managing to get to their floor unnoticed, Lylliann opened her door, then handed Sayur his jacket. "Thank you. I know how... dangerous that was for you to keep your word, and I thank you for it." She forced a human smile and flicked her ears up happily.

"I'll see you tomorrow." and with that, Sayur turned and hurried down the hall towards his own quarters.

Her ears fell at his abrupt reply, and slowly, Lylliann shut her door and put her back against it. Sighing, she slid out of her clothes and naked as she was when she was wild, the Himmel slipped into her bed and fell into an uneasy sleep. The song of the whales haunted her dreams.

Sayur scurried into his room and swiftly shut the door behind him. He had made it. Walking over to his desk, Sayur rested his coat on the back of the chair. It felt strange to hold another Himmel in his arms like that...a female no less. While on the boat, as he had held Lylliann close, Sayur had felt some sort of urge. Not wanting to think about it, he undressed and slid into bed. What is this feeling?



Lifting her head from her pillow, Lylliann smelled the King. She was alone in her room, but his scent lingered from the night before. He had been watching her sleep again. It had been a few weeks since the night of the whales and those memories eased her pain and yearning for freedom, while they continued to help her through her new life. One day I'll leave this place, one day I'll go home. The Himmel sat up and brushed away silent tears, then stood, walking to her dresser with a practiced graceful step. She had taken the habit of sleeping in a nightgown, having felt vulnerable with the King watching her, and wary of his intentions. For being his future queen, he rarely spent time with her, instead preferred to watch from a distance. His intentions towards her sent shivers down her spine.

Hurrying into a light summer dress, Lylliann knew Sayur would be here soon. With the cold spring fading, she was told there would soon be many royal balls, and that she would need to learn the art of dance.

There was a light knocking on the door. Sayur was always dressed to impress, but today he had dressed himself slightly more casual. He stood with his hands behind his back, waiting for Lylliann.

Lylliann splashed some water on her face and grabbed a mint leaf to chew before hastily bobbing up her hair. Over the duration of her stay, the Himmel had learned how well a chair kept any pesky servants out of her room, however, the King had his own way of getting in somehow while leaving the chair in place. Moving it now, Lylliann pulled the door open and resisted a smile, "Good morning Sayur."

"Good morning Lady Lyllian." Sayur said with a light nod. "Running a little late are we?" It was easy to hear her scampering all around her room frantically through the wooden door.

She responded in kind with a very small bow of her head and shoulders. "I had lingering dreams... and I was hunting seals again." Lylliann frowned and closed her eyes, willing the images to fade.

"Polar bear tastes better." he said with limited emotion. He knew that Lylliann missed the ocean, but if he sympathized with her, it would distract from his duties. "Shall we go now?" he offered, turning so that she may pass through the doorway.

Lowering her head, Lylliann sighed quietly and hurried by him in case she smelled a bit too much of his scent. Her walk was silent, as she preferred slippers to anything with soles.

Sayur kept to himself on their walk through the large, elaborate hallways. With his hands firmly folding behind his back, Sayur kept a straight posture, filling his role as 'teacher'. 

They reached the main grand hall, where a few servants cleaned here and there and the dais where the throne was remained empty. A special place had been cleared of tables or chairs in the middle, and the floor had been buffed for dancing. Lylliann looked over at it nervously, and surely Sayur felt it.

Sayur smirked when he felt her nerves and stepped to the side. With a gentleman-like bow, he held out his arm for her to take. He hoped she would know how to properly take his arm to dance.

Having watched some couples dance before, Lylliann hesitated, and tentatively touched her hand to his outstretched arm. Her movements were spastic however, as she wasn't very comfortable with the idea of dancing.

Sayur on the other hand, loved dancing. He loved attending royal balls and masquerades. In a swooping motion, Sayur took to the dance floor, ignoring the servants as if they weren't there. He kept his ears down, not needing to listen to his surroundings. He knew this place up and down. Stopping in the center of the marble floor, Sayur turned and faced Lylliann. His blind eyes stared off above her though.

Why do you love this so much? She asked, curious.

It's fun. Sayur replied as if it were obvious. Once you get the steps down, it's nice to dance in sync with someone in the midst of a royal ball. I'm sure you will be blown away during your first. He rested a hand on her hip and guided her right hand to his chest. Sayur then took a gentle hold of her other one.

It'd be more fun to fly, Lylliann said wistfully while letting him guide her feet.

Sayur didn't reply, he simply started counting steps aloud to her. "One, two three...and one, two three..." With a hand on her hip, Sayur led her backwards around the ballroom floor.

She stumbled through the rhythm, relying heavily on Sayur to help her and eventually she started to get used to it, and didn't step on anymore toes. They swept around in a circle until Lylliann stiffened, then completely froze. The King sat on his throne, watching them dance. Her stomach clenched as she felt his emotions for her.

Sayur picked up on her feelings right away. It seemed that he had gotten lost in the dancing and hadn't even noticed the King wander in. "Ah-" he stopped dancing and faced him. Releasing his hand with Lylliann, he placed it behind his back. "Your majesty." he began, refraining from calling him 'uncle' in front of the servants. "I believe your bride will be ready for next week's ceremony." 

Lylliann put a hand to the chest of her dress and administered a slightly shaky bow. King Tremane's eyes watched her form for a moment before they shifted to his adviser, "Good. I will be announcing our marriage at next weeks ball."

Paling, Lylliann withheld her breath, Was it really going to be this soon?

"Yes sire." Sayur tucked his ears back even more and bowed a respectful head. He was actually quite proud of Lylliann and how civil she had become in such a short amount of time.

But he didn't realize it had all been for him. Her gray eyes glanced to him then fell to her slippered feet, her emotions radiated longing and slight fear. Excusing herself, Lylliann hurried to a side corridor before the tears could start.

Sayur was fully aware of Lylliann's fear but remained stiff in front of the King. Lifting from his bow, he went on to report. "She has improved far beyond my expectations in such a short time. Himmels are truly a remarkable species. You should be very proud." Sayur still hadn't told the King anything about her beautiful singing. 

Tremane nodded solemnly before standing, "Thank you Sayur. Alas I must dismiss myself for a meeting." With that said he swept his cloak and disappeared into an opposite corridor.

Sayur waited until the King left the room. He proceeded out the door Lylliann stepped into. He lifted his ears to locate where she was.

Hidden between two columns along a hallway, Lylliann silently wept, her emotions flowing from her like ripples and waves.

Sayur cautiously walked up behind the pillar that she was behind. He chose to not go around to see her and give her some privacy. Standing up properly, Sayur cleared his throat as if announcing his presence and to interrupt her sobbing. "What is it?" he asked, trying not to sound too concerned.

"You wouldn't understand." Lylliann uttered quietly, sniffing and wiping away her tears. Of course he wouldn't understand. He didn't yearn for a Himmel mate, he didn't yearn for the wild, or its freedom, or the sound of the ocean. She even missed some of the most frigid nights alone in the snow and ice.

"You know, he really is a good guy." Sayur explained, "I've known him since I was a kid." Staying on his side of the pillar, he leaned his back up against the cold stone. "He will be a wonderful provider for you and your kin will one day rule this country."

She laughed, almost mockingly. "Do 'good guys' sneak into a woman's room, watching her sleep with lurid thoughts?" The laugh died into a slight whimper. "I don't want to rule the kingdom, I want to go home and wait for a Himmel to be my mate like our kind is meant to do."

Sayur's ears perked up. Was the King seriously doing that? He wouldn't think she would lie about such a thing so it had to be true. "Unc- I mean, the King probably just can't wait to hold you in his arms." he explained, trying to comfort her, not really knowing how well it worked. "It will get better, I promise. I can even speak with the King about visiting the ocean. Perhaps he will be open to the idea more then you think he would."

Lylliann did not let that promise loose her resolve. She knew she was only supposed to be with one of her kind, she knew that she belonged in the wild. Yet it seemed no one else knew but her. All these... beasts walking and parading around in this pampered form. She commented to herself bitterly. Did they ever think that they were trying to be something they were not?

"To be fair, you haven't really gotten a chance to speak with him. Now- with the English I've taught you, you should be able to hold an educated conversation with him now." Sayur explained, still facing away from her for privacy sake. "The palace balls are very fun...you will like it. There is music and dancing. Not to mention, I wouldn't doubt it that the King will give you a magnificent gown for it."

She snorted. Lylliann didn't care about clothes or makeup or jewelry. "I would only like it if you danced with me..." She whispered quietly.

Sayur's throat dried a bit. Clearing it, he said, "I'm afraid it wouldn't be proper to dance with the King's fiance on the night of the proposal."

"So I have to dance with him the whole time?" He could probably hear the dread in her voice. Then, "But he isn't announcing our... marriage till during it, so, in theory you could still dance with me." Her emotions lifted, hopeful.

"I'm not too sure about that." Sayur said, his ears lowering to his usual, proper place behind his head. "If I did, wouldn't it make marrying the King even harder for you?" He knew that Lylliann had a thing for him, that much was obvious...but he couldn't allow her to keep this interaction up between them.

Her hand slid around the column behind her for a few seconds before stopping, "Marrying the King is going to be hard as it is." A tear slid down her cheek, her thoughts touching briefly upon her last option. Suicide. She swallowed, knowing Sayur had felt that dark thought.

Sayur tensed up for an instant before whipping around. He moved to the other side of the pillar, gliding his hand along side it for navigation. Grabbing her shoulders, Sayur faced down to her even though his eyes saw nothing. "Don't you ever think about that again." he said with an alarmingly stern voice. "The King may not be a Himmel, but he will treat you right." he reminded.

"Even if he rapes me?" No telling where she had learned that word from.

Sayur's tense expression fell. He really didn't know what to say to that. Exhaling, he let go of her arms and stood up straight. "Even if- I don't want you to think about killing yourself." Sure, the King was known to be aggressive at times and Sayur had no doubt in his mind that rape might be the result if Lylliann didn't give herself to him.

"Okay... I'll do it, for you." Lylliann finally responded, quietly. She of course meant the thought of death, not the night after the wedding. "Sayur, I thought... I thought rape was wrong." She asked him, looking up at his blind eyes.

"It is very wrong...." Sayur reminded, "But- he's the King, it's different. You can't go against what he wants. The consequences won't be good. Just do what he wants of you and it will be easier, okay?"

"But..." Lylliann's eyes filled with tears, "I... I can't! It isn't what I want. It is against my beliefs! If I can't have what I believe, I have nothing. Nothing." She repeated stubbornly. "I fear if he takes me I'll get lost..."

"Come now- I know you are stronger then this. You are a Himmel!" Sayur said more firmly. He pulled himself away from emotion and posed once more as an adviser. "You're going to have to get over yourself and be his mate. End of story."

"He hurt my family, hurt me, dragged me away from my home and everything I knew, took away my form and demands I be his wife." She growled, "What he did was wrong, and what he will do to be during his wedding night -- my new found prison -- will be even more wrong." Lylliann snarled, her emotions literally crackling with fury.

"I understand you are upset, but that's just the way it has got to be. The King made his pick and you are going to have to deal with that." Sayur said harshly, his tone raising. If he agreed with how cruel and sad everything was to her, it wouldn't help anything. "There is nothing that can be done now. You are going to be his wife."

In an abrupt movement, Lylliann snatched his collar, gripping it in her hand with strength beyond a normal human woman, for in truth, she was no woman. She was a Himmel, and she knew it. "What would happen if I took this off, hmm? From what I've learned... it would destroy your stable position." She was not enjoying this, he could feel that much, but it was bitter truth. In a quieter tone, she pleaded with him. "Take my collar off, let me escape..."

Sayur tensed up when she grabbed his collar. "I can't do that, Lyll..." he said in a light tone. "The King will know I had something to do with it and worse- you will be hunted down and probably killed for disrespecting the King." Keeping his head still, he said, "Let. Go. Of. My. Collar."

She complied, but not after giving it a distasteful tug. "I would rather die trying, then live in a prison of jewels." Lylliann turned to move, rather disgusted of the idea of laying with the King.

Sayur's father was right about Himmel women after all. Disillusioned creatures... With a sigh, he turned and proceeded to return to his quarters rather then stopping her. Lylliann knew what was going to happen from the start. Perhaps she was just getting cold feet.

Little did they both know, so focused on each others feelings that a servant had been watching the whole conversation. He couldn't hear what they were saying, but their body language was enough. The unnamed servant nearly shook with excitement. He would get a raise for sure by passing on this knowledge. Quickly, he scampered off, hoping to receive a moment from the busy King.



Sayur was dressed in his best outfit to accommodate the King's proposal. It was a white suit with a golden trim. There were bright, gold buttons down the front and on the cuffs. Servants walked around him, primping his hair, adjusting his garment and brushing his ears. When he was finished, Sayur left his quarters and made his way to the ballroom.

Standing before a long mirror, Lylliann glared at her reflection. Her servants had come and gone, or rather been chased away before they could do any damage. She had let them place one ornament onto her attire, that being a gold tiara, with green draping beads of emerald to match her collar that reached from her temples to her hair. She herself had put it up into a light bun. The dress left little to the imagination of these humanoids, but Lylliann didn't really care about that. She could go naked and still be comfortable. It was a light blue, to complement the yellow of her hair and the gold she wore. Sighing, she resisted some final tears before leaving her room and making her way to the grand hall.

Everything in the ballroom was polished to perfection. Members of the high council mingled with other politicians and wealthy citizens of the kingdom. Sayur stood in the entrance way for a moment as he was distracted by his cufflings. Hearing someone approach from behind, he stepped aside only to feel that it was Lylliann. He stood straight and proper as he held the door open for her. "Evening."

She nodded in reply, and though she didn't answer verbally, her emotional spike was enough to acknowledge his presence. Lylliann stepped into the light and almost instantly everyone stopped chatting to look over. Just because the announcement hadn't been made did not mean it was a secret, this was their new queen. People were afraid to talk to her, as her glare was menacing. She tried to ignore their constant bows as she walked past and immediately went to the refreshment table.

Although Sayur knew this was probably very hard for her, he was certain that she would warm up to it. He couldn't possibly think of anything in the wild that could surpass a grand ball. Entering himself, Sayur weaved through the politics until he was stopped by a portly man with a monocle. "Sayur, my boy! How have you been, lad?" he reached out and grabbed his hand, shaking it roughly. "It's me, Reginald, remember? One of your Dad's good friends."

"Ah- right, nice to hear from you." Sayur knew who this man was immediately when he smelled the thick layer of cologne on his suit. He never really liked this man, but he paid his respects.

Out of the corner of her eye, Lylliann watched the king stare at her, resisting the urge to shiver from his emotions. Then a servant approached with a wine goblet, whispering something into his frilled ear. The Himmel turned her face to him fully as his emotions fluctuated quickly. Surprise, doubt, then... She paled. Murderous wrath. His gaze was now on Sayur, and Lyllian grew worried. Did someone see them last night and assume too much? Quickly, she sent Sayur an emotion warning.

Sayur just nodded to the portly man as he went on and on about his business. He flickered an ear after receiving Lylliann's warning. She was probably just nervous that tonight was the night. He would be sure to speak with her about it momentarily.

The King summoned several guards to him before he put on a fake smile. "I have an announcement." The music stopped, "As all of you know, I plan on getting married." The whole crowd cheered as Lylliann looked on in horror. "My future wife, Lylliann, that beautiful creature in blue and green," His smile widened before his glance fell on Sayur, "-Is to be Queen." He stood and and accepted the clapping briefly before he nodded to himself, "But before we go through the proper ceremonies for our engagement, I must attend to something. Enjoy the party."

"Master Sayur?" two large guards asked, tapping him on the shoulder.
Sayur's attention went from the politician to the guards. "Can I help you?"

"Mind coming with us for a moment?"
"What...now? Surely it can wait til later." he rebutted.
"It's a relay from the King, himself, sir."

"Oh... well let's be off then." Sayur said, letting the guards lead him out of the ballroom. He figured the King wanted to give him a reward for all his hard work with Lylliann.

Lylliann was growing frantic. She had an idea of what was going on now, and it scared her to her core for her fellow Himmel. Watching him leave with the soldiers, then seeing Tremane exit as well nearly had her crying in frustration. Holding back her emotions, Lylliann told herself to remain calm until Sayur became distressed.

The guards led Sayur down a few halls, before waiting near a balcony entrance. When the King turned and walked around the corner, the guards scooped their arms under Sayur's, holding him still. "Huh? What the-?! Offhand me!" he exclaimed, trying to get his arms back.

His face held anger, barely boiling within his frame. "I should have suspected something earlier, by the way she looks at you." The King snarled, showing pointed teeth.

"Excuse me?" Sayur asked, his ears perking a bit. "What is all this about?" he asked, trying to get his arms out.

"Lylliann." The King murmured her name, almost feeling betrayed. "You and Lylliann have been coupling behind my back all the while you've been 'teaching' her to be civil. No doubt you been teaching her other things behind closed doors."

"I would never!" he countered. "My relationship with your bride has been strictly nothing but professional, I assure you!" He wanted to know where the heck the King was getting this ridiculous information from.

"A servant saw you two last night doing just what you deny!" He bellowed back, the guards flinching. The King was red faced and pissed off, "But no matter, past history or not, you will be punished for this betrayal, and Lylliann will marry me!" He took a few breaths before calming down. "Take him to the dungeon, so that he may wallow with his fellow scum."

"WHAT?!" Sayur shouted while sending a panicked, subconscious signal to Lylliann. "You've been deceived! I am innocent!" he said quickly as the guards pulled him away. "Ask Lylliann, I haven't touched her!" He started to kick his feet wildly.

Lylliann was already there. Letting out a very Himmel like yowl, she leaped into the air, pinning a guard against the railing of the balcony by his torso. Crouched on top of him she turned and hissed menacingly at the King and the other guard. Her eyes were slits, her hands curled into claws and her ears flat against her neck. For being humanoid, she look quite deadly despite the askew hair and long elegant gown.

"Hurk~" Sayur grunted as he and the other guard slammed into the glass panel that led out onto the balcony. It cracked under the weight of the guards head and Sayur was able to slip free. "Lylliann!" he shouted before looking at the King. This definitely wasn't helping his case. "Tell him we've done nothing!"

Leaping off the railing, Lylliann landed in front of him and yowled again at the King, warning him to stay back. Such was her need to protect him like he was her mate that she had reverted back into her wild self, unable to talk for the moment. The King was both mesmerized and threatened, and could not help but growl back. "She protects you." He said in a steely voice.

"It means nothing! She is delusional!" Sayur shouted, waving his hands in front of him quickly. It probably wasn't the best thing that he just called his future Queen mad.

His eyes flared at that, "Why you insolent little brat! I've given everything to you, treated you like family, and this is how you repay me?! By soiling and insulting my bride?!" Tremane took a step forward and swung his arm, aiming above Lylliann to land a blow at Sayur's face. In a blink of an eye Lylliann was in the air, her teeth latched onto his arm, hovering in the air rather then hanging from his flesh. Tremane roared and shook her free, falling back a step to hold his bleeding arm. He looked at Sayur with murder in his eyes, in his soul.

Being blind, Sayur didn't even see it coming. After he was hit, Sayur fell back into the wall and stared up at the King with terrified eyes. His world was coming down all around him and Sayur knew that the King would surely execute him at this point. There was no where to run and the other guard was coming into consciousness again. In a panic, he ran to the balcony.

Lylliann skittered backward, keeping her eyes on the King who hesitated, then followed them in a blood rage. Her skin was against Sayur's leg, and in a solemn second she looked up at him with her silver eyes, with one thought shared between them. Freedom.

"Fuck!" Sayur cussed, his ears perking up to keep track of the enraged king. Sliding the door open, he grabbed Lylliann's arm and pulled her out. Moving behind her, he pressed the appropriate parts and undid the latch, ripping the collar off. Immediately, Sayur jumped back, knowing that she would transform.

Being that she was already so in tune with her Himmel side, the transformation did not take a few moments, but a brief second. It was just in time for the King to arrive and with an annoyed snarl she casually slapped him with an open claw, blood spurting against the ground. Tremane fell with a grunt, and Lylliann, quite happy snatched up Sayur and flew into the night.




Song of Ardor Part II