The Darke

When Haldir, Hazel and Rhett reappeared, they were inside the territory of the Darke Kingdom. Within minutes, they were surrounded by men on horseback. Rhett stood in front of Hazel and began to growl, but Haldir put his hand on his shoulder and said, “Relax Rhett, they’re friendly.” Sir Eason climbed down from his horse and bowed to Princess Hazel and she returned the gesture by placing her hand over her heart.

Then, Eason laughed and gave Haldir a quick hug. “How are you, you dirty old fucker?” Eason asked.

“Can’t complain and no one would care if I did,” Haldir said.

“That’s for sure my friend,” said Eason. “Young lady, his Majesty has been expecting you. This way your Highness.” The men on horses parted and one brought forward a horse with a cart. Haldir hopped inside first then put his hand down to assist Hazel in. Rhett climbed in behind them and then the driver started towards the castle with the cavalry following.

Rhett looked around him constantly taking in the rolling hills and tree covered mountains that surrounded the kingdom. Looked an awful lot like home to him. And then after nearly an hour, the castle came into view. Rhett had never seen a proper castle up close before and it was bigger than anything a country boy had ever seen.

There was a small bustling town down hill from it but the castle itself was absolutely breathtaking, like a dream. He couldn’t believe his wife had grown up there or ever wanted to leave it. The castle was built into the mountain where its stone walls were mined from. It sat high on a hill. A good vantage point in terms of defenses. The high ground always wins.

The cart took a winding side road to the main stairs where Hazel’s parents were waiting. Hazel’s father, Thorin Parker, approached the cart as Rhett helped his wife down. Thorin was a tall and thin warlock with dark curly hair and green eyes. He didn’t look a day over 30, a benefit of living in this world. He wrapped his arms around Hazel and said in a very smooth Southern accent, “It’s so wonderful to see you again my darling.” Then he looked to Rhett and said, “And you must be Rhett Cameron, I’ve heard so much about you already,” as he took one of his arms away from Hazel and extended his hand to Rhett. Rhett shook his hand and said, “Honored to meet you sir.”

“Rhett, this lovely lady is my wife, Princess Sigrid of the Darke,” Then, a beautiful blonde haired woman with piercing blue eyes stepped forward. She looked at Rhett for a moment to scan his mind then smiled and said, “Welcome to the Darke, Rhett.” Then she put her arms around Hazel and kissed her cheek. “I’m so sorry this has happened ,my baby. We’ll get you right in no time.” Then, she put her hands on Hazel’s belly and said, “Well, hello little ones. It will be nice to see some young ones in the castle once again,” she said as she smiled.

Hazel looked back at Rhett who looked very unsure and uncomfortable. She walked to him, threw her arms around him and kissed him then said, “Thank you for this Rhett. It’s going to be fine. Just relax and clear your mind. They will stop it after they get to know you. I just know they will love you just as much as I do.” Rhett smiled back at her then walked hand in hand with her into the castle.

When Rhett walked in he was awestruck at the enormity of the interior. The ceilings were cathedral and had ancient murals painted on them. The floors and walls were all made of stone. It was a fortress.

They passed through the main hall to Daniel and Rosemary’s throne room. When they entered Rhett saw the King and Queen huddled around a table with Sir Eason. When they family entered, Rosemary looked up and smiled then ran to Hazel and hugged her tightly.”Oh Hazel, I’ve missed you so much.” Rosemary was a petite woman like Hazel with long auburn hair and blue eyes. She was genuinely friendly and exuded warmth from her soul. She then looked at Rhett and hugged him close as well. “Welcome home, both of you. We’re just so happy to have you here finally.”

“Thank you, your Majesty,” Rhett said as Rosemary backed away.

“Oh no Rhett, please call us Rosemary and Daniel. You’re family,” said Rosemary.

Then, Daniel came and extended his hand to Rhett. Rhett got a cold chill down his spine as he shook Daniel’s hand. He was an oppressive presence. He stood nearly 6 foot 5 at least, at Rhett’s estimate. He had broad shoulders and chest and was muscular. His black messy hair fell over his dark eyes. He had a face of stone and his eyes pierced through you, just like his daughters. Rhett could tell he was sizing him up but this wasn’t the first man Rhett had ever squared off against and he wasn’t the least bit intimidated. Daniel looked around Rhett’s mind for a minute then raised his eyebrow. “You’ll do fine Alpha Cameron, you’ll do fine,” then Hazel let go of Rhett’s other hand and hugged Daniel.

”It’s alright Hazel, everything will be fine,” Daniel said as he stroked her hair. Then, he pulled away and said, “You’re babies, a boy and girl you know.”

Hazel nodded, “Yes they told me.”

Daniel closed his eyes and said, “Embry and Leah, they call themselves Embry and Leah. Congratulations Rhett. You did well.”

Rhett said, “Thank you.”

Then, Daniel walked away and went back to the table with Sir Eason.

After dinner, Daniel asked Rhett to walk with him outside. It’s a lot like Earth there but it appeared to be early Autumn. The day was warm and the night was brisk.

Daniel walked slowly with his arms folded behind his back as he followed the path that had led Rhett there.

“These woods are ours as far as the North Woods border, if you feel the need to run, you may do so and no one will disturb you.”

“Thank you, Daniel,” Rhett said.

“Bringing her home, it was the right thing to do. You know that don’t you?” asked Daniel.

“Yes,” said Rhett.

“You know, I’m from Earth also and so is Thorin. We both came here and stayed because women we loved were in danger. We understand what you gave up to come here. It’s not an easy thing but I swear to you, you will never regret doing so. We have to protect the things that are ours by any means necessary. You understand what I’m saying to you don’t you?”

“Yes. Of course, I’d do anything for Hazel and my children.”

“I know that. I’ve seen your mind. I have no doubts about you. The only thing that matters is the people we love. I sometimes do things that are...extreme. I know you’ve heard the stories but it’s all to keep my family safe. Just like you killing your brother. I don’t feel badly for what I’ve done to protect the women in this family and you shouldn’t either.”

Rhett said, “I don’t. That motherfucker deserved to die.”

“This is your home now. Your family. Anyone who stands against us deserves to die. Remember that.”