#nuada

Entering your old room, a smile graced your lips as you saw that all your plants were alive and well. Someone must have been caring for them in your absence, you thought as you stepped over the healthy vines and roots that had spread over the tile floors. At first you assumed it had been Abe, but seeing how overgrown some of the plants had become, it seemed more likely that Red had been the one watering them.

You worried your lip wondering if maybe he didn’t hate you after all?

Things have always been rocky between the two of you. Constantly butting heads since you were children, always seemingly on opposing sides on certain topics, fighting for father’s attention.

You had always suspected that there was a little jealousy as well. Unlike Red, you could blend in with everyone else, you weren’t forbidden from leaving the compound, or forced to live a life in hiding.

It all came to a boiling point when you made the decision to leave. He wouldn’t look at you when you said goodbye. When he had found out the night before while you were packing up what you could, he was furious and both of you said a lot of things in anger. You immediately regretted it right after.

You left fearing that Red would never speak to you again, but your abilities were better suited out there, not on missions hunting down paranormal enemies.

You wanted to help, really help. You wanted to bring forests back to life and assist in places that had been ravaged by wildfires and deforestation. Staying here felt like you were doing more harm than good.

To make matters worse, shortly after your departure, Liz admitted herself into the hospital and then father died. When you returned to mourn his death with your family, Red tore into you. He blamed you for all of it, claiming if you had been around none of it would have happened.

You hadn’t been back since then.

Looking around your room, you couldn’t help but notice how homesick you had become. So much of your life was spent in this compound. You never intended to be gone for so long.

Your room was designed similar to a greenhouse with a glass ceiling to let in plenty of sunlight. Various sized pots filled with plants and vibrant flower beds lined the walls. Right in the center of the room was a hammock where you used to take midday naps. Your old record player was still sitting on your desk collecting dust along with all your books and art supplies.

Your father had made sure that you, Abe, and Red had some space to yourselves that suited your needs. He always so thoughtful of your individual needs.

You picked up an old frame, wiping the dust away with your sleeve to reveal the photograph under the glass. Your fingers traced over the familiar faces smiling back at you.

You had truly missed them all.

“So,” a voice suddenly spoke up from the entrance of your room. “You really did come back.”

You spun around to see Red leaning against the door frame. You laid the picture back on your desk. “I saw the news… Hellboy is everywhere right now. Thought maybe I could help.”

You swallowed thickly as the two of you stared at each. God, you didn’t think it would be this weird and tense, but simply being in the same room didn’t feel right. You wished you knew what else to say to fix it, but you got the feeling he didn’t want to talk.

“Well guess that’s it, I just wanted to see it for myself,” he shrugged and turned away, heading back down the hall.

All you could do was watch, wondering if it would ever be like it used to.

…

“He spoke to me at least,” you sighed, shoulders slumping while you sat on the edge of Abe’s tank with your feet dangling in the water. “I honestly expected worse, another screaming match or something like that.”

Abe’s head bobbed in the water as he swam closer to you and noticed how your frown deepened, “And that makes you… more upset?”

You groaned, throwing your head back, “I know, I know, it sounds crazy, but if he had yelled and maybe even slammed a few doors too, it would’ve felt more normal, more like it used to be.”

Abe chuckled a little, “Yes, I suppose you’re right. The yelling would be far more familiar.”

It was true that you and Red growing up always seemed to be fighting or arguing. It was just the nature of your relationship while Abe and Professor Broom were the mediators. Which was why it was so unnerving to be treated like a stranger, so coldly, by the person you had come to think of as your brother.

“I’m glad Liz is back,” you added. “She’s always been good at keeping him more level headed.”

“Me too,” Abe nodded, carefully climbing out of his tank. “And I’m glad you're back as well.”

“Got somewhere to be?” You asked.

“Director Manning is bringing in someone new,” he explained. “I believe he wanted the entire team to be present for introductions.”

“Ah, I see.”

“You could join us, if you’d like,” Abe offered, putting on his goggles and breathing collar.

“I probably shouldn’t, I’m not officially back,” you sighed, rising to your feet. “Pretty sure the government still wants these types of things confidential.”

You walked with Abe down the stairs, your wet feet leaving behind dark footprints on the red carpet. You smiled at him as he left the room.

Without much else to do, you made yourself comfortable in the library. About an hour or so later, you were curled up in one of the arm chairs invested in a first edition copy of ‘The Time Machine.’

Immediately you perked up when you heard everyone bustling about and on the move.

“What’s going on?” You asked, setting your book aside and standing.

“We’re loading up,” Red stated without his usual enthusiasm. “To go on a goddamn wild goose chase,” he added with a scowl.

You furrowed your brow giving Abe and Liz a confused look.

“We’re going to the east end of the Brooklyn Bridge,” Liz explained while going in for a quick hug. “It’s good to see you,” she added.

You hugged her back. “The Troll Market…?” You questioned, putting it together. “Thought we gave up on that myth.”

You heard Red snort loudly, “Yeah, but this time will be different.” He rolled his eyes and shook his head as someone new approached you.

“Ah! You must be Ms. Y/n,” the strange figure said with a thick German accent. He was dressed in a suit that resembled vintage deep sea diving gear. “I am Dr. Kraus,” he introduced himself.

Your eyes widened for a second, realizing that there was no head or face beneath the helmet, just a strange mist. “Uh, yes, nice to meet you,” you half smiled.

“Will you be joining us?” He asked eagerly. “On the mission?”

Your eyes flickered to Red who seemed irritated but not completely against it.

“I suppose I could.”

“Fantastic,” Dr. Kraus clapped his hands. “I look forward to seeing your abilities for myself. I have read extensive dossiers on all of the team, including you,” the doctor explained. “Your powers seem quite… intriguing.”

“Why would you read my file?” You inquired. “No one knew I was coming back, and technically I might be here but I’m not with BPRD anymore.”

“Ah, yes, but you see I’ve heard stories about your missions from a good friend,” he explained. “So I asked for information that pertained to all of you.”

You looked at the doctor uneasy, before following the back of the group as they made their way to the hangar.

Arriving at the destination, agents filed out of vehicles and began prepping the area with practiced efficiency. Liz directed them where to install the cameras while Red and Abe discussed plans with Dr. Kraus. You tried your best to stay out of the way, simply resigning yourself to observe everyone else at work.

“Aren’t you going to go with them?” Liz asked as she grabbed the bird cage that held a little canary.

You shook your head, “I think it’s best if I stayed here. I don’t want to press my luck or step on any toes.”

Liz pursed her lips and nodded, “It’ll get better y’know, Red just needs time.”

“Yeah, I hope you’re right.” As much as you wanted to be part of the action, just like in the good old days, you knew Red already had enough on his plate as he unwillingly adjusted to Dr. Kraus’s lead.

“Help Manning keep an eye on things,” she instructed with a slight eye roll. “I’ll be back shortly.”

You looked back at Director Manning who was still completely astonished that the little old lady was actually a troll.

“What a hideous creature,” he muttered to himself, staring at the monitors. Eventually he peeled his eyes away and turned to look at you, seemingly forgetting what he was going to say as he saw you through the lenses of the Schufftein glasses.

You lifted your brow, “What? Do I have something on my face?”

“You’re… very glowy,” he answered, somewhat entranced.

You chuckled, “Thanks.”

His eyes followed the swirls of green that traveled along your figure like vines.

“Better keep watching the fragglewump,” you suggested with a small smirk.

“Yes, of course, you’re absolutely right,” he said, turning his chair back around.

You, Liz and Manning stayed behind, keeping an eye on surveillance. Over the radio, Red shared how amazing the troll market was. A part of you wished you had gone with them, but it was too late now. Maybe one day you’d be fortunate enough to return and see it for yourself.

With a heavy sigh Liz stood up and left the back of the truck.

“Everything alright?” You asked her, immediately joining her outside.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” she muttered, fidgeting with her hair then her jacket.

“Liz,” you said gently, knowing her well enough to see that something was bothering her.

She rubbed her forehead and took a deep breath releasing it slowly. “I’m pregnant,” she admitted.

“Oh,” you blinked in surprise. “Oh wow, that’s huge!”

“Yeah, tell me about it. I still can’t believe it myself.”

“Who else knows?”

“Just you and Abe right now,” she answered, kicking some gravel away with her boot. “I can’t seem to find the right time to tell Red.”

The two of you stood side by side watching cars and pedestrians passing just taking in the moment. You couldn’t be happier for Liz and Red. Your small family was getting a little bigger which was also a comforting thought especially after so much loss.

“Ah!” You suddenly shouted, unintentionally scaring Liz in the process as you started jumping beside her. “I’m going to be an aunt!”

She laughed, “Yeah, I guess you will be. I hadn’t really thought about things like that.”

“I’m so excited! We’re all going to love this kid!” You promised.

After making sure she was good, you returned to the truck giving Liz some space, not to mention you knew leaving Manning alone wasn’t the best idea. He wasn’t what anyone would call helpful in an actual crisis.

…

The BPRD truck rocked and swayed as the ground below started to rumble.

Curious if it was just a tremor, Liz opened the doors to the truck, Director Manning stepped back as you and Liz walked out onto the street to see what was going on.

For a brief second everything stilled, everyone’s eyes searched the surrounding area collectively wondering if it was over. Then suddenly the road abruptly cracked like an egg with large thick vines breaking free.

Automatically you recognized that the creature was plant like, leaves covered its body and its head reminded you of a closed flower bud. For a moment you simply took it in, amazed that such a creature existed.

People began screaming and fleeing from their vehicles as the green monster further sprouted from the ground almost resembling a beanstalk.

You remained entranced as strangers ran past you, until Red retrieved a large gun affectionately nicknamed ‘Big Baby’ from the truck's armory.

“Wait! Please!” You pleaded, placing a hand on Red’s arm. “Let me try to reason with it.”

“Are you out of your mind? Look at that thing!” Director Manning argued from the back of the truck.

You ignored him, instead looking at Hellboy for permission.

“You got 2 minutes, Green,” Red instructed as he continued to load his gun. “After that, I’m going in for the kill.”

You stared up at the massive creature, its tentacle-like limbs thrashing around it. The green glow from its center and head was similar to your own, you wondered if it was like you? Would you be able to control it like other plants even though it was sentient?

It was funny to think that you might have more in common with this forest god than you did with anyone else on the planet.

You shrugged off your sweater, dropping it to the ground. Your eyes began to glow as you slowly approached the creature with your hand outstretched. Swirls of glimmering green light traveled down your arms to your palms.

Its flesh felt smooth, waxy, and cold but there was also a subtle pulse beating beneath your hand. Looking up at what you believed was its face, you met its glowing eyes which were warm and very much alive.

The beast howled, using one of its long tendrils to swat a helicopter away.

“Please stop,” you begged. “I don’t want them to hurt you.”

Another tendril came slamming down too close for comfort, successfully smashing a car flat.

“Listen!” You yelled at it. “They’ll kill you.”

You could sense its rage and its fear as it screeched and wailed, thrashing about. It didn’t recognize this world. Where were the tall trees, the giants, the other gods?

“The world has changed,” you said softly. “I’m sorry, this isn’t your world anymore.”

Its body slumped as it whined at you, head tilting to the side.

“It’ll be alright.” You closed your eyes and took a deep breath. “It’s time for you to rest,” you urged.

The creature’s glowing eyes dimmed as it started to fold in upon itself slowly, almost as if it was falling asleep. It started to shrink back down almost in the same fashion when it sprang from the earth, until finally it was a small seed again,

You crumpled to your knees, your own soft green glow fading as the danger seemed to pass. Examining the still crowded street, you noted the damage it caused, it was severe but it could’ve been much worse. A large breach remained in the ground, the cars that were the closest were crumpled like cans.

You cupped the seed in your palm. It was frightening to think that all you had to do was add some water to grow a huge plant monster from this little bean.

“You didn’t destroy the forest god,” the princess said in complete awe, kneeling beside you.

“I couldn’t let it be killed,” you explained, still admiring the seed. “I’ve never seen anything so terrifying yet so beautiful before.”

“That’s quite accurate,” she smiled. “The gods were the Givers of Life and the Destroyers.”

You looked over your shoulder, all the rest of the team and the other FBI agents were busy dealing with crowd control.

You turned towards Princess Nuala offering her the seed.“Here, you probably know more about it than any of us do,” you said, but in all honesty, you just didn’t want it to end up in Director Manning’s hands or the FBI’s. The BPRD already had enough trophies.

The princess looked at you full of curiosity, carefully accepting it and tucking it away in her dress. “Thank you.”

You stood up and joined the rest of the group.

Dr. Kraus informed you that the casualties were minimal considering all the destruction caused in such a short period of time.

Your eyes met Red’s who gave you a nod of approval before you all departed to return home.

…

“Hello, my lovelies,” you greeted your plants as you shuffled into your room after a long hot shower. Dressed in a long silk robe, you strolled past all your ferns and flowers, reaching around to turn on the irrigation system near the wall. “There we go,” you hummed as water slowly started to trickle out.

Stretching your arms over your head, you approached your hammock and climbed in, reclining on your back with one of your legs hanging off. Using your foot, you pushed it against the floor, gently rocking yourself.

Laying there, you admired the night sky, watching thin wispy clouds floating across the full moon. Your mind drifted back to the forest god, Nuala had mentioned that it was the last of its kind. You started imagining a world full of magical beings like that, it seemed wondrous. Perhaps you made the right choice coming back. You were happy that you saved it.

You squinted once you realized you were absentmindedly humming along to a Barry Manilow song. Swinging your leg over the edge of the hammock, you sat up. The music seemed to be coming from below.

Your feet softly padded through your room towards the door, wondering who in the world was blaring ‘Can’t Smile Without You’ this late at night.

Focused on the music you allowed it to lead you through the halls. You and Red almost ran into each other, stopping outside the golden doors. You both stared awkwardly at each other.

He had an open can of Tecate in one hand and the rest of the six-pack in the other. He sniffed, eyes darting to the door, “Wanna see what the hell is going on in there?”

You nodded, but as soon as he pushed the large doors open the music changed, going from Barry Manilow to a classical piece.

“Ah,” Abe said, jumping a little, clearly not expecting the sudden intrusion. “Hello Red and y/n, you’re both up late.”

“What are you listening to?” Red grumbled.

“Oh, uh, Vivaldi,” Abe answered quickly. “Il cimento dell’armonia.”

You narrowed your eyes and shook your head, “Don’t play dumb. I distinctly recall hearing Manilow just a few seconds ago.”

“Not here, I’m afraid,” Abe said sheepishly.

“Hey,” Red said accusingly, pointing at Abe while stumbling forward. “What’s that?”

“It’s just a remote.”

Red’s eyes moved to Abe’s other hand.

“Oh, this, yes…” Abe mumbled revealing the CD case.

You peeked over Red’s shoulder, reading the title out loud, “Popular Love Songs?”

You and Red had completely different reactions as it dawned on you both.

“You fell for the Princess?” You and him asked at the same time. Red appeared to be in total disbelief while you looked utterly delighted.

Abe sat on the steps in front of the fireplace as he delved into the details of his growing crush. Both you and Red joined him, sitting by his sides.

“You’re in love,” Red announced. “Have a beer.”

Abe tried to politely decline but Red wasn’t having it, practically thrusting the can into Abe’s hand.

Red sighed, freeing another beer from the plastic rings and looked at you, “And well, you’re back, so you get one too.”

You graciously accepted Red’s version of an olive branch, cracking open the can and taking a sip.

“So what track?” he asked, returning to the reason that brought the three of you together tonight.

“Eight,” Abe answered, then explained his love and connection to this particular song. Lifting the remote, he clicked a button and ‘Can’t Smile Without You’ began to play again.

“I wish father were here,” Red confessed, taking another drink of his beer. “He’d know what to tell you… us.”

The sentiment was one you all shared. Each of you were facing new problems, dealing with complicated feelings of loss and love. Professor Broom always looked out for the three of you, offering advice and guiding with a gentle hand.

Abe began to sway with the music, singing along with the lyrics. You weren’t sure if it was the beer or the music, but soon you and Red both joined in belting with him.

You couldn’t quite recall the last time the three of you hung out like this. Red, Blue, and Green back together again, it felt right.

Eventually you parted ways, the boys leaving to get more beer and talk about their girl troubles while you retreated back to your room. Your heart and mind felt lighter now, your relationship with Red seemed to be on the mend, relieving you of a weight that had been crushing your spirit for too long.

…

“How did they stop it?” Nuada asked as he flipped through another book before tossing it aside. “How were they able to return the forest god to a seed?”

Nuala's eyes briefly darted to the red emergency button on the wall before answering her brother.

“One of them was able to… speak to it.” She wasn’t sure if that’s exactly how it worked, it seemed more as though you had willed it back into its dormant form. It was a curious thing, you like so many of the others she had encountered here were so strange and unique, to be able to have control of such a powerful and ancient being was truly impressive.

Nuada snapped another book shut, “They spoke to it?”

“I’m not sure how else to describe it,” she said, shrugging her shoulders slightly.

“Where is it now?” Nuada pressed.

“I have it.”

“They returned it to you?” He asked skeptically, furrowing his brow.

Nuala nodded, reaching into a pocket of her dress and revealing the green seed. “They trust me,” she responded. “They have been… better than I expected, kind and honest.”

Nuada scoffed, casting aside another book. “Do not do this, it won’t work,” he turned his head away, sneering. “I will never trust their kind or the ones that help them.” He carelessly grabbed another book before dropping it on the floor with the others.

“I’m simply telling you what happened,” she argued. “The one who saved the forest god didn’t want to see it destroyed, she said it was beautiful.”

Nuada paused, fingers resting on the spine of another book, deep down he was glad that the elemental wasn’t killed. It was, unfortunately, the last of its kind, perhaps using it was selfish of him. If they would have killed it instead, its death would have weighed heavily upon him. An entire race would have been completely eradicated and he would’ve been the culprit who ordered the last one to die.

That was the last thing he wanted, there was already so little of his world left to save. When he closed his eyes he could still picture the world as it was, how it should be.

“Perhaps you can give these people a chance,” Nuala reasoned.

“No,” Nuada said sharply. “The Golden Army is the only way.” He had already sacrificed too much to give up now, killed his own father, lost his good friend, Mr. Wink.

Upon hearing the conviction in her brother’s voice, she knew that her words could not sway him without any other options, Nuala quickly pressed the emergency button.

…

You were laying on your bed, warm and relaxed, your eyelids heavy and your body drained. You hazily dreamt about giant magnificent creatures and exploring the wonders within the troll market. Red had mentioned how incredible it was, how every creature, no matter how strange, walked freely without stares or causing a commotion.

Ever since you were little, you found yourself longing for a place that encapsulated the best of both worlds, a place that balanced the ordinary and the fantastical. It was an intangible dream that slipped through your fingers like dust or smoke.

Suddenly alarms began to blare and red lights above flashed. You sprang up and scrambled out of bed, almost tripping on your silk robe as you ran towards the door.

But you stopped midstep, taking a second to think things through. Swiftly turning back around you opted to use the exit that led straight to the library.

You ran down the narrow spiral staircase, taking two steps at a time, hoping you wouldn’t be too late.

Everything seemed to stop when you stumbled down the steps past Abe’s tank and saw the scene unfold before you, a white haired man with a silver spear was preparing to strike while Red was distracted.

You acted without thinking, grabbing the man from behind, wrapping your arms around his waist tightly as you tried with all your might to hold him back. All you knew was that you had to stop this man from killing your brother.

Your fingers curled over his chest and you planted your feet firmly on the floor, you acted as an anchor using all your weight against him.

Vines sprouted from your hands, they twisted around his arms curling around his fingers right before the spear could plunge into Red’s chest.

Nuada’s eyes went wide, he couldn’t budge. He felt the warmth of your person pressed against him. Looking down at your hands on his chest and waist, his eyes followed the vines. He could barely wiggle his pinky finger within the fabricated restraints.

As he recovered from his stupor, he found himself amused by such a brazen tactic. He could feel your heart pounding in your chest and your breath tickling his neck.

It was a desperate move but effective.The prince suspected that you could keep him bound like this with ease if you chose.

Abe quickly tended to the Princess. While Red rose to his feet and dusted himself off. Confidently he approached Nuada, his glare was full of fury while his stone hand curled into a tight fist by his side.

The men didn’t exchange a single word as they stared at each other. Eventually, Red turned his attention to you. “You did good, Green.”

…

With his arms now bound behind his back, Nuada sat silently in an interrogation room. His face was expressionless like a stone statue. Even with his current status as a prisoner, there was an air of superiority.

He stared at you coolly from across the table. His yellow eyes had already analyzed his surroundings and now were focused on you.

You were different from the Red one, far less aggressive with calm eyes and a peaceful presence. He doubted the demon would have sat in silence as patiently as you had.

“I get it, you know,” you started quietly. “That’s what makes this whole situation so complicated, because your motivations make sense, they’re relatable wanting to protect your people, your way of life.”

Nuada curled his lips in disdain, he didn’t want your sympathies, pity, or your ‘understanding.’

“We aren’t blind to the blight you and your people face,” you pointed out. “All fae folk deserve better. If only we-“

“How would you know?” He seethed, interrupting you. “Your world isn’t the one that’s vanishing!”

You shook your head, “Like my brother, I’m caught between worlds, while I’ve come to love humanity for what it is, my true home is in nature… and with that I’ve had to bear witness to mankind’s abuse to the natural world-”

You closed your eyes, anger from years past resurfacing. You had dealt with your own internal struggle, hoping to find a balance between the man made world and the natural world.

“If I could I would change the hearts of man, make them all see what’s truly important, what’s really at stake here.”

Nuada narrowed his eyes. “So…” he drawled, putting the pieces together. “You’re the one that spared the forest god.”

“And you’re the one that sent it to die for your cause,” you retorted, more heatedly than you intended.

He looked guilty for an instant, eyes downcasted, “My people, our way of life, this is the only way I can save them… the truce between mankind and elves has only brought us loss.”

“If I’ve learned anything,” you sighed. “It’s that you can’t blame humans for their nature, not when you have lived for thousands of years, while a human life is so quick and fleeting,” you explained. “With such little time, it makes sense that they’d act with the greed and selfishness of a child. Even in old age they are practically children.”

“You speak as though you are not human,” Nuada noted.

You glanced at your hands, anyone who simply looked at you would assume that you were human just like them, but you weren’t and unfortunately you didn’t have any answers as to what you were or how you came to be.

“I don’t know what I am,” you said without divulging any additional information.

You leaned forward on the table. “Give us a chance to help, to find another way, no more lives lost… no more races or species extinguished.”

He sighed, his shoulders slumping, not in defeat but in exhaustion. All he wanted was to save his people, and somehow that goal became twisted and sour.

“What do you propose?” He asked, sounding broken. “My people have given up, the Golden Army was the single source of hope that I had clung to… I see no other way.”

“We change the truce,” you suggested. “We create a way for both species- for all species to thrive.”

Nuada’s eyes flickered to yours, still not convinced, “You make it sound so simple.”

…

“Prince Nuada has made it clear,” Manning shared exasperatedly. “He won’t work with anyone else but you.”

You could feel the blame and judgment radiating from Manning, he didn’t like this deal and neither did his superiors, but the prince’s threat of the Golden Army was still very real. Rocking the boat, especially after your ‘negotiations’ would surely lead to war.

Manning leaned back in his chair, “We could use this to our advantage,” he considered. “You can gain his trust… and simply take the crown pieces when he least expects it.”

You immediately rose to your feet. “Ugh, I can’t believe you people sometimes, always looking for an easy way out, instead of doing what is actually right,” you spat. “Maybe the prince has a point…”

“Oh come on now agent-”

“I’m not an agent,” you reminded him, eyes narrowed. “I don’t follow your orders or your commands. I’m going to do what’s right.”

You stared daggers at the man, not hiding your hostility towards him, “They had the opportunity to eliminate humanity a millennia ago, instead of proving them right, maybe we should focus on proving them wrong… the truce needs to change.”

“I agree with Ms. Y/n,” Dr. Kraus said. “I’ll contact my superiors at Interpol. We should all work together on this.”

You excused yourself from the meeting, feeling frustrated and angry despite Dr. Kraus’s support. No wonder Nuada had no hope, that the only solution he could see was eradicating all of humanity.

Even you had to remind yourself that not every single person was like Manning. Somehow, someway, you wanted to bring all magical beings out of the shadows, give them a place where they could exist, where they could strive.

You threw open the doors to the library, ready to share all your grievances with Abe but unfortunately he wasn’t inside. Instead you found Red.

“Hey,” he started slightly startled by your abrupt entrance.

“Hey,” you muttered back, your fists still tightly clenched by your side.

“So, it looks like the meeting went well,” he joked, noting your tense body language. He knew it took a lot to make you this mad, but once you were, it was like setting off a bomb.

You rolled your eyes and began pacing the room. “I can’t believe those idiots are in charge!”

He nodded, all too familiar with it. He missed the days when father was around to handle all the administrative crap.

“They’re all absolute imbeciles, literally the worst!” You continued to rant. “I hate all the red tape and bureaucratic bullshit… Can you believe that Manning suggested I try to steal the crown pieces? After all this? I manage to find a peaceful solution and he’d rather I betray the elves because it’s easier… the selfish bastard! I’m so glad I left!”

You stopped in your tracks and sighed, recalling how Red and Abe were practically stuck here, trapped into being part of the BPRD. “I’m sorry Red, I’m so sorry for leaving you and Abe here to deal with this alone.”

He shrugged, “y’know I’ve given it some thought and I figured if given the chance, if I could blend in like you, I’d probably would’ve left a long time ago.”

“Still,” you added, taking a seat next to him. “I wish things were different.”

For a while you and Red sat, sharing stories and memories of the good old days before drifting into a comfortable silence. Eventually, you retired to your room. Unsure what to expect over the next few weeks or months or however long this ‘mission’ took.

First things first, you’ll be accompanying Nuada back to his clan’s palace. Maybe you should start packing a bag, you wondered. It was strange, you had just arrived and now you were leaving again, at least Red wasn’t pissed at you this time. In fact, he had already agreed to keep watering your plants.

You stood there admiring your plant babies, thinking back to how you acquired most of them. Professor Broom would come home from some mission with a pleased look on his face as he gifted you a single seed from wherever he had been. Every time you were so eager to see what would grow, you loved them all as much as you loved your father.

A knock at your door snapped you out of your thoughts.

“Princess Nuala?” You asked, surprised to see her at your door. You stepped aside, allowing her into your room.

Her eyes lit up as she saw all the green. “Incredible,” she whispered, her fingers brushing over the delicate petals of a gardenia.

“Thank you,” you murmured, watching as she took in your little version of paradise.

“I heard that my brother has agreed to work with you,” she shared, redirecting her attention from all your plants to you.

“For now, at least,” you sighed, still feeling overwhelmed. “I’m pushing for the terms of the truce to be upheld as well as updated,” you added. “Magical beings need more, deserve more…”

Nuala smiled, “An ambitious plan, but I’m sure you’ll find support from our people.”

“I hope so. We’ll need all fae folk to be willing to give this a try.” Although in truth, what concerned you the most was making sure the officials of the BPRD held up their end of the deal.

“I believe you’re quite capable of accomplishing this. Abraham speaks highly of you,” she said.

“He’s a good brother that’s why,” you chuckled. “He has a lot more faith in me than I do.”

“The three of you are quite close,” Nuala noted.

You nodded, “We’ve always been there for each other, without them, without our adoptive father, we’d each be all alone.”

Nuala’s eyes returned to your exceptional garden. It reminded her of how the world used to be, back when her people lived in the forests and the wilds.

“Here, I want you to have this,” she said, holding out her piece of the crown.

Your eyes widened and you shook your head, “I can’t.”

Nuala held the piece out closer to you. “You were the one who convinced my brother to choose another path, you spared the life of an ancient being,” she explained. “I believe you’ve earned it.”

“I don’t feel right accepting it,” you muttered, eyeing the piece of gold in her hand.

“All the more reason for it to be in your care,” she countered.

Finally, you relented and accepted the crown piece, tucking it into your pocket until you could find a safer place for it. One thing was for sure, you wouldn’t be letting Manning know about this exchange.

“Will you be coming with us?” You asked the Princess.

She shook her head, “I’ll be staying here for now. Especially considering that your people still believe that I have the last crown piece.”

She gave you a knowing look, showing that she already understood that people like Manning couldn’t be trusted. “With me here, they’ll feel more… in control, I believe if I were to leave they’d assume I’d eventually betray them and help my brother awaken the Golden Army.”

…

Arriving at the palace it was nothing like what you pictured in your mind. You expected bright halls and lush gardens, but instead it was dark, gloomy, lifeless. You could practically feel the oppression outside these walls pushing in, the constant threat of humans looming over them.

Nuada didn’t exactly look happy to be back, his facial expression was rigid and tight. However, the feeling seemed mutual. The elves who were present for his homecoming didn’t receive him with open arms, in fact there was a wariness in the air as they kept their distance from the prince.

You could feel their cautious stares fall upon you as you stepped forward to introduce yourself. The silence was unnerving, you could hear your heart beating anxiously in your ears.

You exhaled slowly, trying your best to relax. “Hello, I’m y/n, I’m with the BPRD and we’re hoping to work with you and other fae folk in an effort to uphold the truce.”

Nuada sighed, then quickly spoke up, reiterating what you said in elvish or at least you hoped that’s what he did.

You mustered up your best smile and the rest of your confidence and continued to explain the plan, going into how you wanted to improve the life for all magical beings. You watched as their expressions changed, from anxious to curious. A few elves worked up the nerve to speak to Nuada, probably asking him questions about what transpired and if you could be trusted.

Your gaze moved upwards, watching discolored leaves fall. “What’s wrong with the leaves?” You asked yourself, but Nuada overheard you.

“The tree is dying,” he answered simply.

“Can I see it?”

Nuada hesitated, closing his eyes for a moment, before nodding. He gestured for you to follow him.

He walked at a fast pace making it difficult to keep up. As you struggled to follow him, the rest of the palace passed as a blur. Suddenly, he came to a halt at the entrance of a rather barren courtyard. Looking at what remained, you could tell it had once been a lush garden, full of wildflowers, ferns, and shrubs.

Despite Nuada being difficult to read, he seemed bothered by the state of the garden. His gaze was hard as he tried to look past the dead land as if he didn’t want to acknowledge just how bad it had gotten.

In the center was a magnificent old tree with a thick and tall trunk and sprawling branches. However, even from a distance, you could see the tree was sick, the bark was discolored and flaking. Some of the branches were brittle and dry. Just looking at it made your own bones ache.

“May I?” You asked quietly.

Nuada shrugged, approaching the tree with you.

One of the elves suddenly spoke up, sounding rather peeved that Nuada brought you here, but the prince was quick to put the elf back in his place, with a sharp and direct order.

You could sense the web of roots under your feet, they were desperately trying to keep the tree alive. You circled the wide tree trunk, dead leaves crunching with each step you took.

Rolling up your sleeves, thin green spirals appeared on your arms as the light moved towards your hands, making them glow. You pressed your palms to the trunk of the tree. Instantly, you felt what you could only describe as a thirst. Your powers felt like a cool spring as your energy bled into the tree.

After several silent moments, you lifted your hands from the tree.

Long thin branches grew and cascaded down like curtains, shielding you and Nuada within. You watched in awe as small green leaves fluttered down like rain underneath the canopy. The entire courtyard was revived, new grass and plants filled the once barren ground. Clusters of wild flowers bloomed around your feet and climbed up the trunk of the tree.

While you were distracted by the surrounding beauty, Nuada continued to watch you, his stare focused and determined. Quiet, with a hunter-like pace, he crept closer towards you.

He didn’t understand it, he didn’t understand you. It was like beholding a miracle.

You blinked in surprise when you realized how close Nuada was. His expression was unreadable as he observed your face, his own merely inches away from yours.

Your eyes widened as his hand rose towards your face. You gasped when his fingers lightly touched your hair, retrieving a single leaf that had landed on the crown of your head.

He held your gaze for a moment, his mouth opening slightly only to snap shut.

“Prince Nuada,” you said softly, somehow finding your voice. The leaf fell from his fingers landing gently on the grass.

But the moment was broken as the murmurs of the other elves grew closer, they spoke to one another in awe, examining your work closely.

Immediately, Nuada backed away.

A few elves that spoke English, eagerly engaged you in conversation. They were all obviously delighted with what you had done, it was as if you had revived their spirits along with that old tree.

Nuada followed behind as a group showed you around the rest of the palace. They discussed preparing a big feast for later in the evening to celebrate your arrival and the new parameters of the truce.

…

Lilting music filled the dining room as trays of food were brought out. Your eyes widened over all the options, each dish was executed artistically, looking more like artwork than food.

Nuada leaned towards you, filling your glass almost to the brim with a deep red wine. Then stood up and raised his own glass. All eyes were on him as he made a simple toast to new beginnings.

You noted a subtle change in his mood from when you first arrived. He was more relaxed now, conversing casually with his subjects as he ate. He was also unexpectedly attentive towards you, checking if you were alright, translating for you mid conversation when needed, and telling you about elven culture.

You suspected that he missed this, missed being a prince during his exile. It wasn’t that the hardened warrior side of him had vanished, instead another side of him had emerged. This side of him was charming, social, an ambassador capable of persuading even the most stubborn leaders.

It was quite refreshing to get this opportunity to laugh and speak with him and not worry about all the pressures you had been feeling all day.

After dinner, everyone began filing out, one of the servants stayed behind and offered to show you to your quarters, but Nuada dismissed them.

He led you out and towards one of the wings of the palace and up a grand staircase. “You did well today,” he commented as you walked a step behind him.

“Thank you.”

“In a few days we will be hosting officials representing the goblins and trolls in order to inform them of these changes.”

You nodded.

“Until then the palace is available to you, think of it as your home, free to explore and entertain yourself, I recommend visiting the library and the gardens.” He stopped outside of a room, opening the door and stepping aside to let you in.

Standing on opposite sides of the doorway, Nuada looked at you for a moment before adding, “Should you need anything feel free to ask, as your host, it’s the least I can do.”

You grinned at the formality of his words and the change in his behavior compared to your first encounter.

He lifted his brow, giving you a questioning look in return. “What?”

“Sorry,” you smiled wider. “Just didn’t think I’d get the opportunity to see you be so… accommodating.”

He rolled his eyes and turned away. “Goodnight,” he said while heading further down the hall to his own room.

…

You paced around the library, occasionally selecting a tome and perusing its contents before returning it. You were in desperate need of a distraction from how anxious you were feeling, but nothing seemed to work.

All morning the only thing you could think about was the meeting taking place later today. There was a lot of pressure to make all this work, pressures from the BPRD as well as hopeful expectations of the elves.

It was up to you to get the trolls and goblins on board with this plan. Despite how much faith people seemed to have in you, you never saw yourself cut out for all this diplomacy. Fortunately, Nuada would be there, he seemed to have a lot of experience with this sort of thing, and you were grateful for it.

“Lady y/n,” a servant called, snapping you out of your thoughts.

“Yes?”

“It’s almost time for the summit,” she explained. “You should get dressed.”

“Oh, of course,” you nodded.

As you returned to your room, you found a sage green dress waiting for you on the bed. The dress had a similar shape and design to the ones Nuala wore with a lovely band of gold along the waist. Lifting it up, you noted the weight of it.

“How many layers does this dress have?” You wondered out loud, unsure how you were going to get it all on.

You did your best, struggling more than you’d like to admit, as you changed into the dress. You recalled all those movies that showed aristocratic women getting dressed and how they always had a servant around them to help, it made a lot more sense now.

You exited the dressing room and examined yourself in the mirror, fixing a few areas around the collar to show off the fine embroidery and checking your hair.

Nuada stood a few feet away from the doorway, taking a moment to admire you without you noticing. He was satisfied to see the color he picked suited you so well, and that the style of the dress .

Finally, he rapped his knuckles against the door alerting you of his presence.

You tilted your head blinking curiously when you noticed what he was wearing, it was a small change, but instead of his usual black and red ensemble, it was black and green, the same shade of green as your dress.

“It’s time to go,” he announced. “Our guests aren’t known for their patience.”

“Oh right,” you nodded, quickly following him out.

Nuada led the way, his hands clasped behind his back as you walked a few steps behind him. Without being asked, he slowed his pace, matching it to yours, his pace going from a brisk march to a casual stroll just for you.

“Any tips?” You asked him as you both stopped outside the thick oak doors.

He smirked, his eyes lighting up playfully compared to their usual seriousness, “Afraid they’ll be immune to your charms?”

“Charms?” You questioned, blinking. “I don’t believe my ‘charms’ have ever worked in my favor.”

“They were certainly effective on my people,” Nuada elaborated.

You laughed, “You’re confusing charm with skill, I believe I impressed them with my powers.”

Nuada shook his head, “It’s more than that, it’s the way you speak and act… you’re…” he paused, mulling over his next words carefully. “Endearing, genuine.”

You looked surprised at the compliment, “I didn’t know they felt that way.”

“That surprises you? Even after you won m-“ Nuada stopped himself from finishing that statement.

He cleared his throat, “Goblins like precious metals and gems, intricate devices and designs, and of course flattery. Trolls are not as bright as other creatures, they prefer honest loyal people who are clear with their intentions. Speak too fast or too complex, they’ll immediately distrust you.”

“Flattery and honesty, I can do that. Thank you,” You nodded, letting it all sink in as the doors slowly opened revealing the large throne room.

Nuada chuckled, “Are you sure you’re not royalty?” The prince smoothed his hands over his attire and pushed his shoulders back. The stern expression that you were most familiar with returning to his face.

“My friends,” Nuada greeted. “I am pleased to see you all here in good health.”

Trolls occupied one side of the room, while the goblins sat at the other, yet all eyes fell on you as you emerged, standing at the prince's side. The high ceilings looked small compared to the giant mountain trolls that managed to cram themselves into the back of the room.

“Allow me to introduce our guest, representing humanity as their ambassador, Lady y/n.”

Unsure what the proper etiquette was for a situation like this one was, you nervously bowed as Prince Nuada finished introducing you.

You followed Nuada as he made his rounds, personally introducing you to important goblin and troll figures. He tried his best to conceal his amusement as he watched you quickly put his advice to work, easily charming various goblins and trolls with a smile and a few simple words.

“She’s not as human as I expected.” Nuada overheard one of the goblins share with his comrade. His smile grew at the comment, glad he had trusted you so far and that the others were beginning to recognize that you were something special.

Gently taking hold of your upper arm, Nuada guided you back to the front of the room. As you crept up the steps, a hush fell over the room. All in attendance were eager to hear what you had to say.

Nuada stood behind you, his hands clasped behind his back allowing you to address the whole group.

You explained the changes that had been made to the truce, specifically the part that specified that each magical species would be granted land that suited their needs. You added that the mountain region that had been granted would need to be shared or divided amongst the goblins and trolls.

There were some murmurs amongst them, but it didn’t sound as though they were completely against the idea.

Nuada stepped in from there, answering questions and directing the two groups on what to do next. It was obvious to you that this man was meant to be a leader, it seemed to come to him so easily.

“This could actually work,” he murmured thoughtfully, chin resting in his hand as he watched the trolls and goblins discuss the terms of sharing a territory and rather peacefully in fact.

You smiled and nodded, “it will work.”

…

Over the next few weeks, you traveled to several hidden fae cities and communities with Nuada. Similar to the Troll Market, all sorts of beings congregated in secret, hidden from humanity. You were amazed by the ingenuity of the fae folk and how they managed to find a way to endure, although you knew full well that this situation wasn’t ideal.

Nuada actually seemed excited to bring you along, getting to show you all these unique places that existed right under the noses of humans. And despite his somber appearance, he also seemed to be in high spirits over the plan, over the restoration of the palace, and the allegiances being formed.

To your surprise, you had actually enjoyed these past few weeks with him. He demonstrated that he was more than a warrior, that he was also an intellectual who had interests in engineering and art, and that underneath it all was a man that simply cared for those he viewed as his people, elves and other creatures.

You had worried that working with him was going to be difficult to say the least, that you would have to listen to long lectures about everything wrong with humanity. Instead, he had focused his efforts to unite the fae and become a true leader for his people. He often spoke of the past with a longing in his eyes, one that tugged on your heart strings. You had a similar longing, one where there was harmony between nature and people and now also magic folk.

Browsing through one of the troll markets, you paused when you smelled something delicious, the aroma of vanilla and nutmeg wafting in the air around you.

Nuada chuckled as he observed you. Without asking, he took your hand and led you to a food stall nearby. He spoke briefly to the vendor and handed something in exchange for the pastry that Nuada was now handing to you.

“Thank you,” you beamed. You inhaled deeply before taking a large bite. You hummed in appreciation, the bun was so soft and warm and was filled with something similar to custard.

While focused more on eating than walking, you accidentally knocked into a troll.

The troll growled something in a language you didn’t understand, but you could tell from his tone that it wasn’t anything nice.

Immediately, Nuada lashed out, coming to your defense. He started shouting back at the creature, his voice dripping with venom and his eyes full of rage.

The troll roared, thumping on his chest, looking rather eager to fight.

Clutching Nuada’s arm, you attempted to hold him back, having never seen him this angry before. He reached for his lance, gripping the hilt tightly.

At the sight of the silver spear, the troll seemed to come to his senses, finally backing away, but Nuada didn’t care, all he saw was red.

“Nuada,” you murmured softly, tugging at his arm, hoping to de-escalate the situation. “Come on, don’t let this ruin our day.”

“But-“ Nuada sighed, his rage subsiding as he looked at your face. “Fine,” he relented. “However, next time anyone speaks to you that way, I’m beheading them.”

…

Returning to the palace almost felt like returning home. This time around, the reception of your arrival was warm and welcoming as many of the elves gathered for your and Nuada’s return.

After another large feast, the prince quietly slipped away while everyone else mingled. You tilted your head, watching as he snuck out through the wooden double doors. Excusing yourself from the table, you followed him.

“Nuada,” you reached out, taking a hold of his arm. Successfully stopping him in the hall.

“Hm?” He turned to face you.

“Here,” you slipped the third crown piece into his hand.

He couldn’t hide his utter confusion as he felt the cold metal in his palm, “This is…”

“The final crown piece,” you answered.

“Why?” He asked, his eyes boring into yours.

“I don’t want you or your people to be out of options if this falls through, I trust you,” you said simply. “And I trust you’ll do what’s right… Wish I could say the same for humans.”

Nuada stared at the gold piece in his hand, rubbing his thumb the length of it as he processed your words. He now had all three pieces and could claim the Golden Army.

But…

He lifted his head, his gaze falling upon you, you had provided him with a better solution, one that he was willing to try, to work towards. He’d keep his word, he wouldn’t awaken the army as long as there was hope for his people.

“Thank you,” he said in a quiet voice, that still conveyed his gratitude. “But it should remain with you.”

As he returned the crown piece to you, his touch lingered on your hand for longer than necessary before he said good night.

…

The next morning, sometime after breakfast, Nuada came to your room, seemingly in a hurry.

“I’d like you to accompany me somewhere,” he said vaguely.

You lifted your brow, “Um…Sure?”

“I cannot believe I had forgotten about this until now,” Nuada shared with a lighthearted tone as he took you by the hand and led you down several familiar halls.

“The library?” You questioned as you and him stopped in front of the large doors.

He shook his head, pulling you further into the large room. Nuada led you to a door towards the back that easily could be missed, in fact, despite all the time you had spent in here, you had never noticed it before.

His smile grew as he opened it, inside the walls of the small room were lined with tall cabinets that had rows and rows of tiny drawers. On each drawer were words carved into the wood in elvish. Nuada gestured for you to open one.

Sliding the small drawer open, you peeked inside to find a jar filled with seeds. “A seed library…” you murmured, eyes filled with wonderment as you realized the hundreds, no thousands of plants held in this small room.

Nuada nodded, “Most of these were collected long ago, some of these plants no longer exist.”

“This is amazing,” you started as it all sunk in. “Could I try to plant some? Perhaps I could nurture some of these back into existence.”

Nuada smiled, it was a smile you hadn’t seen before, one filled with youthful excitement, “I was hoping you’d say that.”

“So which ones are flowers?” You asked, eager to get started.

Nuada helped you select a few, explaining that these flowers had the most wonderous scent, that sometimes if he tried hard enough he could recall just how lovely they smelled.

Sitting side by side in a courtyard, you and him prepared a flowerbed, breaking up the soil, making sure it was soft and moist. You rolled a seed between your fingers, your arms glowing, but nothing happened.

“Keep trying,” he encouraged when he saw the look of disappointment on your face.

Taking a deep breath, you tried again, “Can you describe it for me, what this flower looks like? That might help.”

“They’re simple but elegant, like gardenias but larger and smell just as lovely and their leaves are a dark green and appear waxy.”

You could almost picture the flower in your mind’s eye, see it sprout and grow and blossom. Looking down into your hand, you laughed seeing that the little seedling had finally sprouted. Delicately, you planted it in the fresh soil.

“You must think poorly of me,” Nuada stated unprompted. “You must see me as a man who seeks violent solutions, solutions where I willingly sacrifice my people and allies needlessly for my own goals.”

You shook your head, “I can tell none of this has been easy for you, I know that it all weighs heavily on your conscious.”

“Still,” he sighed. “I’m not like you, I hadn’t considered any other option, I hadn’t considered that peace could still be possible. You are… admirable to say the least.”

“You’re mistaken,” you whispered, eyes staring at your hands as they padded the soil. “I may be the worst of them all…”

Nuada tilted his head, you obviously had his attention.

“Before Professor Broom,” you began, your mind drifting to your childhood. “I don’t remember much, but I do remember living in a forest, alone, I was practically feral… unfortunately, I didn’t stay hidden away forever, eventually unlucky travelers and hikers stumbled across my path and all my encounters with them ended the same, who knows how many I killed.”

The memories were foggy, but you could still picture roots wrapping themselves around strangers and coiling tighter and tighter until blood ran.

“I don’t know what was different about father when he found me, but I didn’t kill him. He patiently camped in the woods, keeping his distance from me, but stayed close enough that we could observe each other. I remember him being such a gentle soul…”

You recalled watching him from the outskirts of his camp, he started leaving little treats and trinkets for you in the same spot for you daily. Apparently, he used his experience as Hellboy’s father to help him make a connection with you.

“I have a penance to pay, to both humanity and nature.”

Nuada placed his hand over yours, giving it a gentle squeeze, “I think it’s been paid.”

…

“So,” Red started. “Once you're done with this whole truce crap, what are your plans?”

Nuada opened his mouth to answer the question, but quickly closed it as he realized he actually didn’t know the answer. He assumed that you would be staying with him, living in the palace like you have been, but in all honesty, he had no idea what your plans were, it’s not like he asked or spoke to you about it.

He felt an unpleasant heaviness within him as he acknowledged the possibility of you leaving, moving on to a new and different place to help others.

“I haven’t really thought about it,” you said, working on some needlepoint for the twins’ nursery. “I’ve been so focused on helping the fae, that I haven’t had the time to really think about what’s next.”

You and the prince were currently visiting, mostly to update the BPRD on your progress, but also to spend some time with your family and check in on how everyone was doing. Abe and Nuala appeared all lovey dovey and Liz had shared with you all her crazy pregnancy cravings.

“Well, there’s always room for you here,” Liz offered, absentmindedly rubbing her pregnant belly.

“Thanks, although I’m not sure Manning feels the same way,” you laughed.

“You’re not any worse than Red and they still put up with all his crap.”

“Hey,” he scolded playfully, glaring at Liz. “The BPRD would cease to exist without me.”

Nuada tuned out the rest of the conversation as he contemplated what to do. The thought of you far off somewhere without him stung more than it should. What if something happened to you? What if he never saw you again?

Suddenly you yelped, having accidentally stabbed your index finger with the needle, Nuada’s eyes narrowed as he watched you, he could practically feel the sting of it on his own fingertip. Looking down at his pale hand, he saw a little droplet of blood.

His stomach lurched at the realization. Without a word he withdrew from the group and went out into the hall. On the outside to any of the agents he passed he looked as calm and collected as ever, but inside he was a dam on the verge of breaking due to this latest revelation.

“Have you told her?” Nuala inquired behind him.

Nuada shouldn’t have been surprised that she had followed him, but he didn’t answer her question, he just huffed and turned away.

“Brother,” she urged.

“Have you told the blue one?” He sneered.

“I have.”

He rubbed his forehead, love was a serious matter, especially in their case, it wasn’t something that should ever be taken lightly, because for him it wasn’t something fleeting or lighthearted, it was deep and all consuming.

But when did it get to this point? When did his infatuation become love?

“She has a right to know.”

He began to pace slowly, his arms crossed over his chest. “It’s not that simple,” he argued.

“All the more reason for her to know. We had our suspicions that this could happen,” she reasoned. “That our bond, our ability to feel each other’s pain, could transfer once we each found love.”

His jaw tensed at the word ‘love’, knowing it would only become stronger, that soon you’d experience his every ache and pain and that he’d feel all of yours.

“Human love isn’t as complicated as this,” Nuada stated, glaring at his twin. “What if she doesn’t understand? What if she doesn’t want it and rejects me? What do I do then?”

His mind was already racing with worse case scenarios. The splitting pain he felt over the mere thought of you not loving him had him worried. There was no way for him to stop this, he had no control over it, you and him were now bound to each other, but that didn’t mean you had to remain at his side or even return his love.

“I can see that she cares for you, brother,” Nuala soothed, placing a hand on his shoulder. “Tell her.”

…

It was nice being back at the palace, while seeing your family was great, something about being there made you appreciate the peace and quiet cultivated here. Life was simpler, calmer, amongst the elves.

Nuada, however, hadn’t been the same since returning. You weren’t quite sure what it was, but he was distant, colder. It reminded you of how he had behaved when you and him first met. It’s not as if he was actively avoiding you, but the rapport that you two had developed had seemed to vanish.

As you were walking through the halls, planning to visit the seed library, but halted midstep when you spotted Nuada training in the gardens… in the rain.

You watched mesmerized from the outskirts of the courtyard. Drops of water rolled down his back drawing your attention to the way his muscles moved and flexed. Graceful didn’t even begin to cover the sight before you.

Despite having already seen him in action, you were still impressed by the fluidity and speed of his movements. He transformed something as violent as fighting into something captivating and beautiful like an intricate dance.

Wet strands of hair clung to the front of his face as he spun with a final flourish. He stabbed his spear into the soft wet dirt, his chest quickly rising and falling while he caught his breath.

Nuada raked a hand through his hair, slicking it back as he lifted his head. He gave you a questioning look when he spotted you on the other side of the courtyard. His lips slowly parted, but before he could speak you scurried away full of embarrassment.

You tried to regain some of your composure as you sped walked through the halls, not really paying attention anymore to where you headed. Abruptly, you halted when you noticed that you were walking towards a dead end, but before you could turn around you heard Nuada say your name.

You could hear him approach, stopping once he was right behind you. Your heart sped up as Nuada possessively placed his hand over the center of your chest, his warm fingertips pressed down into your soft flesh as he pulled your back to rest against his wet chest.

Under his palm he could feel your heart beating in sync with his own. His other arm wrapped around your waist holding you firmly in place.

“This,” Nuada began, his voice low and velvety right by your ear. “This was how you grabbed me that night, do you remember?”

“Yes,” you whispered.

Closing his eyes, he sighed wistfully, his breath tickling your flushed face. “Your touch lingered for days and it was all I could think about,” He admitted, his arms winding tighter around you. “I couldn’t recall the last time someone had held me or touched me like that, with such…passion.”

His hand crept a little higher from your chest, gliding over your collarbone before his palm rested on your neck. You released a shaky breath, your head spinning from his touch and the low tone of his voice. You were barely even able to register the words he spoke, completely confused by his intentions.

Nuada exhaled heavily, “I suppose that’s when it started, my infatuation for you.”

“What?” You squeaked.

His index finger traced down the center of your throat as he lowered his hand and loosened his grip on you. “There’s an important matter we need to discuss.”

He started heading towards his room and beckoned for you to follow.

“What is it?” You asked.

He shut the door and stood in front of you with his hands behind his back. “I’ve come to care for you,” he confessed, his expression stern as if he had given you a life sentence.

“I care about you too,” you said in a soft tone.

Nuada shook his head and frowned, frustrated with himself for not being clear and not being more eloquent about it. “It’s more than that… I’m in love with you and there are circumstances that you need to be aware of.”

“Circumstances? Sounds… serious.”

His heart sank at your hesitant expression, but he continued to press on. “You are aware of my bond with my sister, yes?”

You nodded, “if either of you gets hurt, so does the other.”

“Well, I’m no longer bound to her, I’m bound to you.” His eyes studied your face as he spoke, watching your brow furrow as you pieced together what he said.

“How?”

“Because you have become that important to me,” he answered with absolute certainty.

You looked up at him, slowly closing the space between the two of you. Your fingers lightly brushed over his skin as you tucked several loose strands of his white hair behind his ear.

His hand promptly took hold of your wrist, his expression torn as if he couldn’t decide between stopping you or encouraging you.

“You need to understand,” he started, his grip tightening. “That there will be no turning back, I will never let you go.”

You were aware of Nuada’s intentions, he wanted this to be absolutely clear for you, for you to know just how consequential it was for you to start a relationship with him, even if it meant scaring you off. But, surprisingly you weren’t afraid or intimidated by the thought of being with him for the rest of your life.

Through your observations, starting from the very beginning, you had seen how lonely he was. How he was trying to repair things basically on his own. He kept everyone at a distance while he shouldered a burden alone until very recently.

In your eyes, Nuada was more than a warrior or a prince, you saw all of him… he was complex and intriguing and passionate. You wanted to be the person he shared those parts of himself with, and most of all you didn’t want him to be alone again.

“I want this,” you promised. “I want you.”

His other hand held your chin, his thumb brushing over your trembling lip as he tilted your head up. He leaned in, eyes boring into yours. “Mine forever.”

Nuada didn’t waste another second, capturing your lips with his and eagerly pushing you against the wall, his tongue swept over your bottom lip before finding its way into your mouth.

Your fingers clutched the back of his head, curling around his wet hair as you reciprocated the kiss with just as much passion. Your other hand ran down his chest, his heart racing under your touch.

His fingers hooked behind one of knees, yanking your leg upward, instinctively you wrapped it around his waist allowing him to be even closer to you, his pelvic bone now grinding against you. He pushed your skirts up so his hands could roam over your thighs while his mouth latched onto your neck.

Nuada, under typical circumstances, would be more intentional about where he left marks but right now he couldn’t care less as little pink and red marks bloomed on yours and his skin.

You had never felt this sort of urgency before, it was as if he’d die if he had to wait any longer before being with you.

In a hurried and rough manner, he undid the sash of your dress then began to tear away all the layers in his way. He moaned obscenely, feeling your bare torso pressed against his own. His lips explored the newly exposed flesh, nipping and sucking.

Even he was surprised by how desperate and animalistic he was acting, unaware of just how much his body craved your touch and your skin on his, he was practically ravenous.

You could hear him panting heavily by your ear as he undid his pants. He pushed your underwear to the side, exposing your slit. Fortunately, you were already aroused because Nuada couldn’t wait any longer.

Taking his cock in his hand for just a moment, he aligned it with your tight warm cunt. In a fluid motion, he thrusted into you completely, pausing briefly as he savored the feeling of being buried in your velvety walls.

You gasped, wrapping your arms around his neck for support as he began thrusting. His pace immediately starting out fast and hard.

Nuada’s cock was long, reaching depths no previous lover ever had. Your nails raked across his pale skin as you cling to him, yet this caused you to hiss as you also felt the sting of it.

“You are,” he panted, “enchanting, wondrous, divine…”

He sloppily kissed along your shoulder, loving every little sound you made as he fucked you. He wondered if he’d regret not taking his time with you, for being so rough with his flower, but he didn’t feel any pain, just waves and waves of pleasure.

There would be time, plenty of time, where he could make up for it, where he would be a gentle, more tender lover, who will kiss and touch every inch of you.

It didn’t take much longer before you came. You moaned his name, muscles now tightening and your toes curling.

Nuada immediately followed, grunting as he rode out his orgasm and came inside of you.

Propping himself up against the wall with his arms, he caught his breath. Leaning his head down he kissed your forehead then along the side of your face. Acting with more self control, he cupped your face, gazing lovingly into your eyes, “I am yours.”

The following morning, things progressed a lot more slowly with your new lover.

Nuada groaned as you straddled him, his back arching off the bed as you slowly took his cock. Casually he fucked you from below, rolling his hips at a leisurely pace as you rode him.

He admired you, taking in all the pink and purple splotches left from the night’s activities, but also appreciating how lovely you looked in the light of the morning.

…

“Have you packed?” You asked Nuada as he entered the bedroom. You were currently packing your own bag, excited to take a small trip back home.

A couple of days ago, you received a message letting you know that Liz delivered two healthy babies. It had been a couple of months since your last visit, so you were already due for another, but this news made it even more necessary to go.

Nuada nodded, placing his hands on your waist. “Do you need help?”

You shook your head, “No, I think I have almost everything I need.”

Nuada kissed you, right under your earlobe. “Are you looking forward to seeing everyone?”

“Of course I am… I can’t wait to meet my little niece and nephew!” You gushed. “What about you?”

“It will be nice to catch up with my sister, see how she’s adjusting to living with the blue one.”

“He has a name, you know?”

Nuada chuckled, but didn’t bother correcting himself.

“What do you think I should have the babies call me? I was thinking of Auntie Green.”

“That is… suitable I suppose.”

Suddenly you grinned as a thought crossed your mind, “This means you’re also an uncle now, because of our lifelong magical love bond.”

He shook his head, trying to hide his smile over your name for the bond. Taking a few steps back, he moved aside as you finished zipping up your bag. Without thinking, Nuada lifted it up from the bed, ready to carry it to your destination for you.

“Uncle Nuada,” you mumbled, but scrunched your nose in disapproval. “Hmmm, what about… Uncle Silver? That’s much better!”

“Must they call me anything?” He muttered.

“Hey! Don’t be like that, plus you might be a biological uncle soon.”

Nuada sighed, “I suppose you are right… in that case, I think I’d prefer Uncle Silverlance.”

The path wound through a dense forest, ancient trees rising tall on either side, their thick canopies casting mottled shadows over the soft earth beneath their feet. The late afternoon light filtered through the leaves, painting golden patterns that danced with every subtle breeze. The air was cool and fragrant with pine and damp moss, wrapping the small group in a quiet, almost sacred calm.

Abe walked silently beside Nuala, his steady gaze scanning the horizon, but more often resting on her. After a long pause, his voice broke the silence, low and careful.

“It’s close now, isn’t it?”

Nuala’s eyes flicked up to meet his, and she smiled — a slow, genuine smile that spoke of vulnerability and newfound acceptance.

“Yes,” she replied softly. “Closer than I thought. And... I’m ready.”

Abe’s fingers twitched nervously before he finally reached out and gently took her hand. The warmth of her skin grounded him, and he held on a moment longer than necessary.

“I’ve been thinking about us,” Nuala admitted, voice barely above a whisper. “I know what I feel for you. I’ve accepted it — more than that, I want it." Abe was astonishing.

Nuala continued "But with everything happening… with Nuada and Eve, it’s complicated. Sometimes I don’t know if what I feel is mine, or just… caught in the chaos around them.”

Abe’s brow furrowed in concern, uncertainty flickering in his eyes. “You mean Nuada’s feelings for Eve? And how that affects of us?... all of us??"

Nuala nodded, squeezing his hand gently. “Exactly. You don’t know how deep it is. I had to close my bond with Nuada just to keep from feeling everything" she looked at him like trying him to understand what she meant.. he didn't.. she kept going changed it for him" his confusion, his pain. It was overwhelming.”

There was a long silence between them, heavy but intimate. Then Red’s voice, sharp and unexpected, cut through the quiet.

“You mentioned Eve — she’s okay, right?” Red asked, glancing over with a hint of worry.

Nuala gave a reassuring nod. “She’s here. We’ll see soon enough.”

Liz stepped forward, brushing a stray leaf from her shoulder. “No time to waste now. The ruins lie just ahead.”

The group moved onward, the forest thinning until they reached a clearing. There, half-swallowed by earth and vines, lay the ancient ruins—massive stone pillars cracked with age, moss creeping over the worn engravings. The air hummed with a deep, old magic, as if the stones themselves held their breath, waiting.

The weight of what was to come settled over them all. This was no ordinary place—it was the heart of their conflict, and the stage for the inevitable.

Abe glanced at Nuala, his eyes searching hers with a mix of hope and uncertainty.

“Princess… do you really feel the same way?"

Nuala returned his gaze, a soft, knowing smile spreading across her lips.

“I do,” she said simply, her hand tightening around his as they stepped forward.

Together, they approached the ancient ruins, ready for whatever awaited them.

------

The group moved steadily through the dense forest, the air thick with tension and anticipation. The sun filtered weakly through the canopy, casting dappled shadows on the uneven path beneath their feet. Every step brought them closer to the ancient ruins beneath the earth—an eerie place where the fate of many would be decided.

Red walked beside Liz, their eyes scanning the surroundings, while Abe and Nuala stayed close, their hands still intertwined. The closeness between them was no secret now, a silent comfort in the uncertainty ahead.

As they neared the clearing, Abe tightened his grip on Nuala’s hand, whispering, “We’re close. I can feel it. Nuada’s presence is near.”

Nuala nodded, her eyes narrowing as if trying to pierce through the layers of magic and stone, but said nothing. Instead, she exchanged a brief, knowing glance with Abe—words unspoken but heavy with meaning.

The heavy silence that followed was broken only by the crunch of leaves beneath their boots.

At last, they reached the entrance to the ruins—an ancient archway overgrown with moss and twisted roots, a cold wind emanating from within.

Red gestured sharply, signaling them to stay alert. “Stay close. We don’t know what to expect.”

Slowly, they stepped inside.

The dim light revealed a cavernous chamber. And there, standing near the center, was Eve—with Nuada beside her.

Her clothes seemed altered—shifted or conjured by magic, yet unmistakably her. Nuada’s hand rested gently against her cheek, his touch possessive yet tender.

Liz whispered, “Is she… with him willingly? Or is this some kind of trap?”

Abe’s eyes flicked between them, searching for any sign of coercion or resistance. But Eve’s calm expression was unreadable.

Nuala swallowed hard but said nothing, instead sharing another glance with Abe, their silent understanding stronger than any words.

The room seemed to hold its breath as all eyes fixed on the unlikely pair—on the fragile line between alliance and betrayal.

The room held its breath.

Nuada’s eyes flicked up first—sharp, instinctive. He had felt it before her footsteps ever reached the stone floor. The tether to his sister, once severed, now faintly tugged again, like a breath at the back of his neck.

He turned his head toward the entrance, golden gaze narrowing as he spotted the group at the threshold.

His body shifted subtly, placing himself half a step in front of Eve—not in fear, but in reflex. Protection. Possession. Both.

His hand dropped slowly from her cheek, lingering just a second too long before falling to his side.

EVE'S POV

She felt it the moment they arrived.

A subtle shift in the air—like the world exhaled all at once. And then Nuada's eyes flicked up, his posture changing, protective but composed. His hand fell from her cheek, and Eve instinctively looked toward the entrance.

There they were.

The people she'd fought beside. The ones she'd bled with, laughed with, feared for. And yet, now—standing beside him—she didn’t move.

Her heart didn’t leap with guilt. Only a quiet, aching tension spread through her chest.

Red looked like he was about to charge. Liz had narrowed eyes and a clenched jaw. Abe, sweet Abe, was unreadable for once—but she saw it in the way his fingers twitched slightly. His gaze searched hers, then Nuada’s, then back again. Looking for proof. For betrayal. Or for something else entirely.

And Nuala… she didn’t speak. Her silence rang louder than any question, but her eyes—warm, bright, knowing—met Eve’s for the briefest of moments. Not a threat. Not doubt. Just understanding.

Nuada hadn’t spoken yet, and Eve could feel the war inside him. A ripple of energy buzzed beneath his skin. She reached for his arm—not to stop him, not to defend him. Simply to remind him that she was still there. That she hadn’t moved.

“I can feel you thinking,” she whispered just loud enough for him to hear.

He didn’t look at her, but the muscles in his jaw relaxed.

Her gaze returned to the group. She inhaled slowly, deeply. “They think I’ve been taken.”

Nuada’s voice, low and rough, answered. “Haven’t you?”

Eve turned her face to him then, not flinching. “No. I chose to stay.”

He looked at her, truly looked at her.

Nuadas' Pov.

He heard her voice, soft and certain, break through the rising tension in his mind.

“I can feel you thinking.”

Of course she could.

How could he possibly hide it from her now?

The presence of his sister had struck him like the pull of a blade—sharp and immediate. The bond they'd once shared flared back to life, even through the veil she’d placed over it. She was near. And with her… the humans. The ones who would never understand what this was. What they were.

Nuada's mind had gone silent, but not still.

He was bracing himself.

Not for a fight—though that was likely. But for the gaze of those who would see Eve by his side and assume the worst. For the flicker of betrayal in her allies’ eyes. For the test she would now face.

He was preparing to be the villain.

Again.

But her hand found his arm. No fear in her fingers. No hesitation.

He didn’t look at her yet, but her presence steadied him more than any silent mantra or battle rhythm ever could.

“They think I’ve been taken,” she said.

A cruel twist of irony curled on his tongue. “Haven’t you?”

But her response—simple, unwavering—landed deeper than he expected.

“No. I chose to stay.”

And there it was.

That unbearable warmth in his chest again.

He turned to her slowly, needing to see her eyes. Needing proof of her choice. And when he found it, unshaken and steady, his doubt cracked—just enough.

She’d meant every word.

She chose him.

Even knowing what he was. What he had done. What he would do.

He didn’t deserve that loyalty. And yet… she offered it freely.

His jaw eased. The chaos inside him quieted for a breath. He couldn’t afford softness, not now. But the way she looked at him—like she could see every fracture in him and still stayed—made the armor around his purpose feel thinner than ever.

Nuada finally lifted his chin and looked to the intruders. To them. They would not take her from him.

-----

The silence grew heavy as Nuada turned.

In front of him, Hellboy stiffened like a beast sensing another predator. Liz moved half a step forward, her hands warming with barely-contained fire. Abe stood still, his sharp gaze going straight to Eve.

She wasn't restrained. There was no fear in her expression. She stood beside Nuada, breathing calmly, her eyes reflecting a strange, undeniable strength. But Abe saw something more—an aura, faint and ancient. Magic.

Nuala’s voice was soft.

“I suspected it.”

Red’s voice broke the silence.

“Eve?” it came out rough, uncertain. “Are you okay? Did he hurt you?”

Before Nuada could respond, Eve took a breath and stepped forward. Her hand reached up and gently rested on Nuada’s shoulder—a wordless gesture of calm, of restraint. Then she looked at the group.

“I’m fine. He hasn’t hurt me.”

Nuada didn’t move under her touch, but his jaw clenched slightly.

“She’s not here against her will,” he said, voice sharp as a blade. “And if any of you try to take her from my side… you won’t live long enough to regret it.”

Hellboy let out a bitter laugh.

“You know what, pointy-ears? I’m really getting sick of your threats.”

“They’re not threats. They’re truths.” Nuada’s golden eyes found his. “And you… You fight to protect a world that hides you. A world that calls you monster and then sends you into the shadows to do its dirty work. All of you.”

Hellboy’s expression shifted—just enough to betray the sting of the words.

Nuala stepped forward, her voice steady despite the tremble in her chest. “Brother, you don’t have to do this.”

Nuada finally looked at her, and for a breath, the warrior disappeared—leaving only the tired, fractured soul beneath.

“Sister… if only you knew…” His voice lowered, almost like a confession. “Once the Royal Fight is spoken, once it’s agreed upon… it must happen. Or both sides perish.”

Everyone fell silent.

He looked at Eve, his expression unreadable.

“Am I doing this willingly?” A pause. “No. But I must. Because both sides accepted.”

Without another word, he turned toward the golden army. He lifted the final piece of the crown.

The chamber trembled faintly as unseen seals unlocked. Symbols ignited along the ancient stonework, forming a wide circle carved into the floor—runes older than any of them could name.

Abe’s eyes widened. “The Circle of Iron…”

Hellboy snorted. “Well, great. Let’s get your royal deathmatch over with.”

Nuada slowly lowered the crown, then slipped off his cloak. His tunic clung to his form, the scars on his chest visible like ghost stories. His spear spun once in his hand, effortlessly.

“The winner will decide the fate of the army,” he said. “And of the war.”

Eve’s breath caught, but she didn’t speak.

He didn’t look at her as he added, quietly, “Don’t interfere. This is something I must do.”

Eve’s brows furrowed. She stepped forward and touched his arm gently, her voice trembling. “Don’t ask me to stand still while you walk into this, at the moment you need me, you or Red, I will interfere.”

His jaw tightened. That flicker of hesitation returned to his eyes—one that only she seemed able to pull from him.

Then, without another word, he turned to face Hellboy.

The tension was a living thing—heavy, pulsing in the space between them.

Nuada stepped forward, each movement measured, his expression unreadable but no longer distant. The runes carved into the floor seemed to flicker in response, echoing the gravity of what was about to unfold.

Eve stood behind him, her hand slowly lowering from his arm. She didn’t speak again, but her eyes—those unrelenting eyes—remained on him as if willing him to turn back. He didn’t.

Hellboy rolled his shoulders and walked into the circle without hesitation, cracking his neck.

“So this is how we’re gonna settle it.”

Nuada unsheathed his blade. The steel whispered through the air like it had been waiting for this. For blood. For closure.

“By the ancient pact,” he said, voice deep and resonant, “this Royal Fight shall decide the fate of the crown. Interference will forfeit the lives of both heirs.”

No one moved.

Abe held his breath.

Nuala’s hand trembled at her side.

Eve’s fingers curled against her own skin.

Nuada still didn’t look at her. But the way his jaw tensed before he raised his sword betrayed something. A flicker of conflict.

Hellboy lunged first, fists up, not waiting.

Steel met stone as Nuada blocked with fluid precision—elegant, fast, merciless. The force of the first clash echoed through the chamber. Sparks flew.

The duel had begun.

Hellboy’s punches were heavy, brutal—he wasn’t holding back. But Nuada moved like shadow and flame, slipping past each blow with lethal grace. His blade sang through the air, striking not just to wound, but to end.

The clash of iron and stone echoed like war drums in the chamber.

Above them, the silent watchers stood still.

Abe's eyes followed every movement, but it wasn’t just strategy he saw—it was something deeper. A look, a twitch in Nuada’s stance. He’s conflicted... but he’s still striking to kill.

Beside him, Nuala stood pale, lips parted, her fingers trembling. She didn’t look at the fight—she looked at Eve.

Eve hadn’t moved.

She stood outside the ring, arms crossed tightly over her chest, as if holding herself together. Her breathing was shallow. Her eyes locked on Nuada, not with fear... but with something that read like heartbreak.

He’s pulling his strikes. Why? Why is he hesitating?

Nuada ducked under a powerful swing and retaliated, his blade slashing across Hellboy’s side. Blood sprayed—a crimson arc in the air. Red staggered but didn’t fall.

“Nice one,” he growled, smirking through the pain. “Guess I should’ve known you’d go all in.”

Nuada didn’t answer. His eyes flicked—just for a moment—to Eve.

She saw it.

She saw the flash of regret.

But then he turned again—cold, composed. He pressed forward, blades dancing faster, pushing Hellboy back toward the edge of the circle. The prince's movements were flawless... but Eve could feel it. The tremor underneath the rhythm. A man fighting not just an opponent—but his own will.

Behind her, Nuala whispered, “He's not aiming to win.”

Abe turned to her, confused. “What do you mean?”

But she shook her head, gripping the staff in her hand. Her connection with Nuada remained closed, yet the bond with Eve… was enough.

The blade sliced through the air again, grazing Hellboy’s arm. Another step back. Another drop of blood.

And still Nuada hesitated.

In that pause—barely a breath—Eve took a step forward, eyes shining. “Stop,” she whispered, not to Red... to him. To the man she knew was still in there.

He didn’t stop.

But his next swing missed.

The sound of metal clashing and the echo of fists striking flesh had faded. All that remained now was the weight of breathing—heavy, strained, desperate.

Nuada lay on the cold stone floor of the chamber, his golden blade having slipped from his grasp. A dark stain spread slowly across his tunic, just below his ribs—a mirror to the very wound he had once inflicted on Hellboy.

Hellboy stood above him, chest heaving, one hand still balled into a fist, the other holding onto the remnants of his coat, torn and darkened with ash and blood. He hadn’t meant to drive the blade so deep—it had been instinct, reflex… retribution. For Liz. For Abe. For Eve.

Nuada's eyes blinked slowly, his face contorted in pain, but his breathing was steady. Controlled. He hadn’t lost consciousness—but he was no longer fighting.

A gasp escaped Nuala as she clutched her side and staggered slightly. Abe was by her side in an instant, eyes wide with alarm.

“Nuala—!” he caught her before she fell. His hands trembled as he supported her weight, scanning her pale face and the faint shimmer of blood beneath her robes.

“I’m fine,” she whispered weakly, though her voice betrayed her pain. “It’s… him. He’s hurt.”

Abe looked toward Nuada, and for the first time in the battle, he didn’t see a prince or an enemy—only a brother, tethered by blood and soul to the woman now faltering in his arms.

“Your life is tied to his,” Abe murmured, his voice heavy with dread.

Nuala nodded faintly, wincing. “I feel every heartbeat. Every pain. If he dies…”

Abe swallowed hard. The realization hit him like ice water.

Narration (back to Nuada):

Nuada’s breathing had slowed. His eyes weren’t glazed, but they were far away—lost in something beyond the pain. The golden prince looked upward, not at the ceiling, but through it, toward something invisible. A memory. A voice. A presence.

“Eve…” he rasped, barely audible.

She stepped forward slowly, her eyes wide with something more than fear—something ancient and mournful. She knelt beside him without hesitation, placing her hands gently around the wound.

“You stubborn fool,” she whispered, tears blurring her vision. “Why didn’t you yield?”

He gave a strained smile. “You know why…”

Her hand brushed over his cheek, and the warmth of her magic shimmered faintly beneath her skin. She wasn’t healing him—she couldn’t, not completely—but her touch softened the pain. It grounded him.

Behind them, Liz approached Hellboy, placing a hand on his shoulder. He looked shaken, jaw clenched—not out of rage, but guilt.

“I didn’t think I hit him that hard,” he muttered, almost defensively.

“You didn’t,” Liz said quietly. “He didn’t dodge.”

The chamber fell into silence.

Eve pressed her hands harder against the wound, but there was too much blood, too much slipping through her fingers. Her breathing quickened as she looked around, eyes desperate, searching—anything, someone, a sign.

“Abe… Liz—please—!” Her voice cracked. “I can’t stop it!”

But no one moved. Not because they didn’t care—because they had no idea what to do. The air around them had grown heavy. Thick. It vibrated with something unnatural.

Nuada’s eyes fluttered open once more, a weak smile on his lips. “Don’t cry for me,” he murmured. “Not now…”

“No,” she hissed through clenched teeth. “No. You don’t get to leave me after all this.”

She leaned over him, clutching his tunic tightly, pressing her forehead to his. Her fingers trembled, magic surging uncontrolled beneath her skin—wild, unstable. “Please…”

Then the wind shifted.

It started with a soft whistle—like breath through dead leaves—and in seconds it swelled into a violent gust. Shadows stirred at the edges of the chamber, and a spiraling current of black smoke whipped around them in a sudden vortex. Dust, leaves, sparks of crimson light circled upward like a storm in reverse.

Hellboy stepped forward instinctively, hand going to his weapon, but the air pushed him back.

“Eve!” Liz shouted. “Get away from him!”

She couldn’t move.

The tornado of darkness grew tighter, angrier. And then, from its very core, a form stepped forward—tall, lean, his shape more felt than seen. Cloaked in swirling shadows and fire, the demon that had once whispered warnings now stood revealed, eyes burning like coals in a sea of black wind.

Eve’s eyes widened. Recognition struck like a thunderclap.

“You—” she whispered, breath stolen.

The demon didn’t smile, but his presence pulsed with satisfaction.

“You called,” he said in a voice that rumbled through the bones of the earth. “Or rather, your soul did.”

“No,” she said softly, voice breaking. “I didn’t—”

“But you would have,” he replied smoothly, looking down at Nuada’s motionless form. “For him. You would give anything.”

Eve’s grip on Nuada tightened. She didn’t answer, but her silence screamed yes.

“Then listen carefully, child of the old blood,” the demon said, stepping closer. The smoke curled around her like fingers. “There is always a cost. Always a choice.”

“What choice?” she whispered, tears falling freely now.

A faint smile curved the shadow’s lips. “His life… or yours. Or something in between.”

“What do you want?” she whispered.

The demon raised a hand and shadows shifted. A vision unfolded before her eyes—soft golden light spilled through tall windows. She stood barefoot in a sunlit room, belly full with life. Nuada knelt before her, his silver hair brushing her stomach as he kissed it tenderly, both of his hands caressing her carefully, reverently.

He looked up at her with a peace she’d never seen on him before.

Her breath caught.

“You long for life to grow within you,” the demon said softly. “For this, you must pay with that very gift. You will never carry a child. Not in this life.”

Eve stared at the scene—at Nuada, his devotion, the way her fingers laced into his hair. The warmth, the joy. And she knew.

She looked down at Nuada’s limp form, his chest barely rising.

“…Will he live?”

The demon nodded once. “He will.”

Eve closed her eyes. "Then I accept."

A sharp snap echoed—more felt than heard. A pulse of energy rushed through her body. Her breath left her in a stuttered gasp as her knees buckled. She caught herself with one hand on the ground.

When she looked at her palm… it was streaked with blood.

Exactly as in her dream.

The shadows began to retreat. The wind eased. The unnatural quiet cracked—Nuada stirred.

His fingers twitched first. Then his chest rose with a deeper breath. His golden eyes fluttered open just as Eve lifted her face toward him, tears already falling.

At the same time, across the chamber, Nuala gasped and sat upright in Abe's arms, the twin connection reawakening with life.

The price had been paid.

And no one else knew—except her.

Nuada's body jerked slightly as if a silent current had passed through him. His breathing steadied, deeper now, and his lashes trembled before he opened his eyes fully—golden, alert, confused.

The first thing he saw was her.

“Eve…” His voice was raw, nearly a whisper, yet heavy with emotion.

She reached for him, cupping his face with her bloodied hand. “You’re alright,” she murmured, brushing his damp hair back. Her lips trembled, but she smiled, even as her eyes filled.

“What… happened?” he asked, his voice still hoarse. He sat up slowly, muscles tight with pain and recent death. “I felt—” His sentence trailed off as his gaze dropped to her hand, the blood smearing across his cheek.

He tensed. “You’re hurt?”

Red was the first to speak, glancing around at the now-cleared chamber with disbelief.

"Okay, so… no one’s gonna talk about the creepy magic smoke tornado thing that just happened?"

No one replied.

Their eyes were fixed on the figures at the center of the room. Eve was still on her knees, leaning over Nuada’s body. He was breathing now, slowly. His skin was regaining color. Nuala, a few feet away, stirred as well—alive.

For a moment, the team stood frozen. Then, almost as one, they exhaled—some in relief, some in confusion, others in awe.

Nuada stirred again, breath catching sharply as he sat up. His eyes snapped open, unfocused for a second before they landed on Eve. His voice was hoarse, weak:

“You’re here… I’m alive…” He reached out as if confirming it. “But… how? Why?”

Eve didn’t answer immediately. She just wrapped her arms around him, holding him close. Her fingers brushed the still-warm skin of his face, her heart racing. "Yes, you’re alive… That’s all that matters."

Nuada pulled back slightly, still confused. His gaze shifted to her, eyes searching, as if trying to make sense of something that felt impossible.

“Why…?” he whispered, his voice filled with raw vulnerability. “Why am I still here? Why am I alive?”

She met his eyes, and she could see it—the doubt, the confusion, the pain. She knew he could sense something.

She let out a soft breath, her grip tightening on him, and said softly, "I did something. Something that would change everything. But… you’re here now."

His brow furrowed deeper, still trying to process. “What did you do?”

Eve closed her eyes for a moment, the weight of what she'd sacrificed hanging heavily in her chest. She didn’t need to say the words aloud, not yet. Instead, she just shook her head, her lips barely moving as she spoke.

“Nothing that should’ve been necessary.”

Nuada watched her closely, almost sensing the truth between her words, but he couldn’t bring himself to ask. Instead, he just pulled her into his embrace again, holding her tightly as if to make sure she was real.

“I don’t deserve this,” he murmured into her hair, his voice thick with emotion. "After everything, I... I don’t deserve this."

She didn’t respond immediately. There was nothing she could say to erase the weight of the past. But she pulled away just enough to look into his eyes, her own filled with a mixture of care and understanding.

“You deserve more than you think, Nuada,” she whispered.

Nuada holder her tighter, his breath uneven. For a moment, there was nothing else. Just the sound of their heartbeats and the love between them.

.

.

.

“Remember, Mr. Wink, we’re here for one thing,” Nuada remarks over his shoulder just as the troll's attention drifted towards a trolley full of caged pixies. Nuada’s yellow eyes dart around from beneath the cloak, scanning for any sign of the sorcerers he heard could see into the future. At the same time, a little ways down a quiet alley, a woman crowned in a pale blue veil slinks about inside an apothecary.

“Found anything you like miss?” the goblin running the shop inquires from behind you. You spin on your heel abruptly as you had been disturbed out of your thoughts, with a twinkling from the small silver bells on your ankles, and you squint in annoyance at the old creature before switching to a tight smile.

“Oh I’m coming along just fine, thank you,” you reply and with a faint flick of your wrist the goblin automatically turns back to tinkering away behind his register. You sigh and settle back into your thoughts. What you needed was no disturbance, but the raucous troll market was the only place that carried the magical herbs for your craft. The coven you resided in had also turned you into a bit of an errand-girl, not that you cared though since it let you venture outside of the stuffy manor full of an odd mix of witches and wizards.

“Ahem,” you cough and snap the goblin out of his mindless spell. He gives you a toothy, yellow grin as he rings you up and gives a small bow of his head while you turn to leave. You tuck the satchel under your arm and skip out of the apothecary. With your hands full and mind racing with new spells to try, you remain unaware of Nuada's attention on you as you shoulder past each other in the alleyway. But a couple seconds after passing him, you turn your head over your shoulder, suddenly irritated upon realizing someone is watching you. The cloaked prince hadn’t moved from his spot, but swiftly walks away after you return his attentive gaze. With your eyes following the cloaked figure in curiosity, you fail to move out of Mr. Wink’s way, and he being as large as he was meant he took up over half the alley. You cry out an angry “hey!” after he nearly crushes you against the grimey brick wall. Wink only shrugs in apology and keeps on his way.

“Brainless animal,” you mutter before returning to your way home. You take several winding turns, leaving the busier parts of the market behind. The sense of someone looming behind you returns though, and you quicken your pace to find the portal to the coven. The manor was not physically here in the market but elsewhere, but the way it was charmed was as if it were in the market, each window looking out into different streets. Finally, a small fountain of a woman pouring from a jug waits for you at the end of an alley. You were still being followed though, you make a turn elsewhere rather petrified.

“What the hell am I doing? I should show them who they’ve decided to pickpocket,” you turn a sharp corner and snap your fingers, turning into a light and wispy apparition, appearing like fog to the average eye. Nuada halts at the crossing where he last spotted you, spinning around toward every path in frustration.

“Go look for her!” he urges Wink down one way and heads towards the opposite way, but the fog settles before him and he slows his pace. He drops the head of his cloak to take a closer look and your heart drops. Before you stood the Nuada. The elf prince who swore to return from exile when his people needed him most. So, the prince of elves had been following you all this time. That couldn’t be good, had you done something to offend him? Why was he back? What did he want?

“Why are you following me?” you ask him, your voice like a whisper tickling his ear as you remain in the guise of mist. Nuada turns his head about, trying to pinpoint you in your transient form.

“I know what you are, come out into the light witch,” he nearly spat out that last word, much to your offense. But you laugh at this instead, your voice bouncing off of the walls all around him. He bares his teeth in annoyance like a growling dog.

“And why would I do that? I don’t owe any allegiance to you, little prince,” you knew better but you wanted to mess with him anyway, considering his apparent aversion to your own kind. Unbeknownst to you, Mr. Wink appears from behind and waves his metal hand around in your mist to clear the space before him. Your foggy form shudders and drifts to the side, meanwhile Nuada’s eyes slowly train to make you out.

“I need you to tell me if my…decision is right,” he continues, “what my fate is.”

“Fate!” What was it that made everyone think witches were just fortune-telling broom riders? You lash about in agitation then float above the two fae, Nuada’s eyes now carefully following you. You ponder for a moment.

“There’s going to be a price for that,” you say elusively.

“I will pay however I must, I just need to know.”

How easy was that, you could set any price and the prince would gladly oblige. Maybe this meant you could leave the dreary coven too. With a swoosh towards a shaded corner, you return to your physical form and approach Nuada in the lantern light. He looks at you curiously through your thin veil. Without a word, you hold out your hand with your palm face up. He looks down at your hand then back to you, hesitatingly resting his own hand into yours. With all the energy you have left, you travel to the manor without the aid of the portal. After what felt like several seconds of a whirlwind of blinding light and heat, you and Nuada stumble into a dimly lit foyer, leaving Wink behind in the troll market.

“Who is it? Is that you? Did you bring my stuff? Ah, yes you did,” an old gray-bearded man in velvety robes pads swiftly across the wooden floors to snatch away the satchel from you, completely oblivious to Nuada towering mere inches behind you.

“Sir, I was going to use the silver room if you don’t mi-“ you begin but the old man waves you away and heads upstairs without a word. Feeling slightly foolish at the moment, you turn to face Nuada with as much of an air of importance. You pull your veil up and over your head, it dissipates in the air to fully reveal you. Your hair is long, soft, and well-kept, some strands twinkling like starlight. Your face is also radiant; mischief and curiosity dance about in your glowing eyes. Nuada takes you in all at once in more pleasure than he would ever admit. He knew you were above the average human due to your powers, but he couldn’t help feeling drawn to your physical form as well; an odd sense of trust and safety filled his heart which only then alarmed him.

“Follow me,” you turn away from Nuada and walk to the back kitchen. The stoney room is filled with the scent of cinnamon and cloves and a fire from the hearth roars under a large cauldron. You lead him to the side of the room where a staircase leads into the cellar. Another quiet trek in the cellar between shelves of potions and concoctions and you finally reach an arched doorway. Inside is an octagonal room, each wall is a mirror, so too the ceiling. A faint blue glow emits from an unknown source, keeping the room well-lit but not too bright. You walk into the middle of the room, light bounces from all the mirrors onto you. Nuada stands dumbfounded at the archway, gazing into each panel on the wall before finally stepping towards you cautiously. You point to a bird fountain in the center of the room. In it is a pool of silvery water so motionless that it seemed to be solid glass like the walls.

“What is this?” Nuada asks in annoyance after only catching a glance of his reflection in the sink. You roll your eyes.

“Think long and hard what it is you’re asking, then dip your face into the water,” you reply. He gives you a distrustful look before sighing and doing as you say. He closes his eyes, pictures himself taking the crown pieces, controlling the golden army, and annihilating the entire human race. Simple enough. He slowly lowers his face closer and closer to the water. He hesitates again for a moment, but catches you looking at him curiously in the reflection, then sinks his face in entirely. He first sees nothing but a soft light, as if he were at the bottom of a pool and the sun was shining through weak rays of light. All at once, the world around him comes to life in vivid colors. He watches himself secure the crown and successfully claim all three pieces, but a dreadful feeling looms over him throughout the entire vision. Nuada suddenly reels through spurts of visions of his father and sister and a red demon and more, these snippets of moments horrify him without him even fully grasping why. With a gasp, he backs away from the fountain and stumbles to his knees. He catches his breath then jumps up to his feet.

“I need to see that again,” he shoots towards you only to see a rickety wooden table in place of the water fountain. You click your tongue.

“Where is it?” he asks bewildered. He circles the entire room as if it would summon the looking glass again.

“Only one vision per person, sorry,” you step towards the exit but Nuada blocks you. His yellow eyes, at first looking to you in anguish, now burn with rage.

“Show it to me again, witch,” his hand begins cupping the hilt of his blade. Your eyes dart down and back up into his, you let out a tut-tut.

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you,” you warn as you step back. Nuada only steps closer to you, much to your annoyance.

“If you do not do as I ask you,” Nuada’s voice drops dangerously low as he corners you, “then I will cut through your entire infested den until you obey.” With this you haughtily push forward. He begins to draw his blade and you thrust your hands towards him.

“Get out!” you shout, sending Nuada into a portal, before sinking to the ground in exhaustion. Hopefully you sent him back to the troll market. Wait. Why did it matter where he went? He was threatening to kill your people over a stupid vision. It was a shame you couldn’t see what he had seen. Curiosity beating your better judgement, you flick your hand at a mirror closest to you to observe Nuada. You sigh in relief after recognizing the place he had landed in. You watch him now snatch his cloak from Mr. Wink who scratched his own big scaly head in confusion.

In that dark alleyway where he first found you, Nuada swings his blade at the stone walls with a roar. After finding himself back in the troll market, he called for Mr. Wink to track down every witch who donned a veil. He wanted answers, and you gave them to him, but now he only bubbled with more.

***

"Let this remind you why you once feared the dark," a wicked grin spreads across Nuada's face as he watches the fairies devour the flesh off of the humans. He raises the crown piece up to his face, his eyes enchanted by the meticulous work of gold. Screams and gurgling noises fill the auction room.

"Why are you watching that elf?" you jump out of your skin and wave away the horrifying vision in the mirror before facing the speaker. A witch, not much older than you, taps her foot questioningly.

"I...got curious," you falter at making an excuse and creep up to the doorway, your hands clasped behind your back. The witch arches an eyebrow, she wasn't convinced. You feel her begin to pry into your mind, but you only boot her out in frustration. She narrows her eyes at you in distrust.

"It’s been going on for weeks now, you don’t think we all know?" she goes on, "I'm starting to think you like that little elf." At this she laughs, "but really, if you don't get a grip, I don't think I can help you stay here much longer." She doesn’t give you a chance to reply and stalks away, leaving you fuming. That wicked viper always acted like she was second in command in this down-trodden coven. As if getting kicked out was even such a bad thing. Anger bubbles up inside of you, but you recall the other thing she had said. "Like" was an understatement; you were infatuated with Nuada. His strength was like no other and it perplexed you when any witch mocked him. What were your spells and tonics to his ancient power? You sigh with a heavy heart and return upstairs to the stuffy, candlelit sitting room.

You glance at the softly ticking clock on the mantel then melt into a velvet sofa to stare into the fireplace before you. Murmurs in the background lull you into a mindless contemplation. Your eyelids grow heavy but you keep your eyes fixed on the flames. The fire suddenly flickers wildly and takes shape into two figures. One flame resembles Nuada with a crown upon his silver head; the other flame is a much larger man or beast, with horns that have been shaved down to stumps. Suddenly, the beast beats Nuada to the ground, only then do you jump towards the fire with a loud "no!" escaping your lips. A pair of witches in the room give you a troubled look before shuffling away to a different room. Feeling flustered, you watch them leave but quickly turn back to the fireplace. You felt deep within your soul that what you had seen was the truth.

***

With one piece of the crown tucked into his robe, Nuada walks with a lighter conscience and glowering pride. He knew now he had to return to his people’s kingdom to finish the crown. He pats the place where he hid the piece and recalls the witch, the gazing mirror, and what transpired in his visions. When he watched himself finish the crown he felt debilitating guilt, but now with one piece in his possession he only felt confident.

She was wrong. I will not fail. Nuada pushes the doubt out of his mind and enters the troll market. He preferred this place over the cold halls that the elves had turned into their home, out of sight from human eyes. His mind wanders back to you as he walks idlely. He only now realizes what you reminded him of: starlight. Back when elves could roam outdoors without worry and the sky was as clear as ever, free from light pollution from manmade cities, the stars blazed the sky in sheer brilliance. That night he first met you you shone the same way as those stars had in the old world. His heart leaps and he curses himself. You were not a star, you were a human who played with magic. Still, he ponders. He had heard of people who were gifted, who really did have more good in them, who had been persecuted by their own kind for having those gifts.

A clattering noise removes him from his thoughts and Nuada whips his head towards it. Mr. Wink, his ever so loyal companion, had knocked someone and all their belongings over. The troll apologizes in his own unintelligible language and tries picking the things up, but his large and few-fingered hands keep dropping them back down again.

"Oh leave it! Leave it!" you swat the troll's hands away and rise from the ground. With you, your things float up into your large bag.

“See?" you tell the troll and turn away haughtily to leave.

"You?" Nuada's voice freezes you over.

"Oh no," you begin to snap your fingers, but the prince had already snatched your hand midair, reaching your side swiftly. You look at him in panic as he brings your hands between you.

"Don't run, I want to talk," Nuada grits his teeth as he struggles to keep your hand in his, you squirm in defiance.

"Last time we spoke you pulled out your sword, not very conversational if you ask me," you finally give up as his grip tightens. You look up at him fearfully, but he didn't seem angry. You soften as his yellow eyes seem to search back into yours.

"I am sorry but I just need a moment, and besides, I never paid you." You think it over, or at least pretend to. There wasn't anything special waiting for you back home.

"Alright, but just a few minutes," you return Nuada's gaze again and he releases you from his iron grip. He nearly smiles, then nods his head towards a large fountain in the midst of the market. You sit on the edge of the fountain, eyeing Nuada warily as he settles next to you. The two of you make a brief glance at the deadly creatures slithering at the bottom of the marble fountain. Nuada adjusts his sword on his back and motions at Mr. Wink to stand guard.

"I wanted to say that what you showed me that day was wrong," you look at Nuada incredulously.

"I didn't show you anything, the mirror showed you something you asked to see," you begin, "and please spare me the insults about witches and their tricks." Nuada narrows his eyes at you, but falters into a somber look as he loses himself in your beauty. You were wearing a light grey gown this time with strands of glittering stones atop your head. You glimmered like the Venusian star at the last hour of the night. You didn’t know what made you more uncomfortable then, the silence or Nuada seeming to just stare at you with nearly squinting eyes. You think of what to say next to end this silence.

"I saw something too…recently," you recall, "in a fire, I saw you." Nuada focuses again and tilts his head slightly in confusion.

"So now you're going to tell me that you can see my fate and not some puddle?” Did he want to sting you with his words? You shrug.

"I didn't think I could, okay? But I was gazing into a fireplace, and suddenly it came to life. I wasn't dreaming or anything, I know what I saw I-," you hesitate and lower your voice, "I saw you lose in combat." Nuada sits up straighter.

"What did he look like? Like a demon? Was he a big red thing?" Nuada suddenly pours out. You look at him stunned.

"Yes, only his horns were shaved off…" the two of you stare at each other warily, realizing you shared the same vision as him. Nuada's fears return and he rises from his seat, you follow.

"I must go, I'm sure you'll be glad to be free from me now," Nuada begins to stalk away but you grab his arm, a light gasp escapes his lips as you tug him back.

"Do not finish this crown," you hiss so as to not be heard by passerbys, "we both saw it, you will die in the end of all this." Nuada doesn't move for several seconds, his chest rises in deep breaths. He then shrugs your hand off and storms away with Mr. Wink trailing behind. You stand at the fountain in disbelief then huff.

Let him see for himself! A heaviness toils in your mind though as you sweep up your belongings and go your own way. You glance into your bag to double check only to find a coin of gold added to your things.

***

It was done. Nuada retrieved the second crown piece, his eyes welled with tears once he found a moment of solitude. He had sent Mr. Wink after Nuala for the final piece, and he remained behind to grieve his father who he had no choice but to kill for the crown. Nuada stumbles down a hallway, gripping the wall to steady himself. He began to panic as the prophecy unfolded in his mind once more. What once seemed like meaningless fragments now pieced together. Your face flashes across his mind. He balls his hand into a fist and smashes it against the wall.

***

He had to find you, he needed to find you. The purpose of this mission he wasn’t entirely clear on, but surely you could cheat destiny? Anything to aid him. Anything at all. Nuala was now long out of Nuada’s reach. Mr. Wink failed to capture her, losing his life in the process. A small creature had just left Nuada with the news of his friend’s tragic end. He rose from his place beneath the bridge and searched for you across the market in wild desperation. He was alone now, so alone.

Several days had gone by since your last meeting with the elf prince, and you assumed he was done with you once and for all now that he had paid you as well. The troll market has grown more frenzied than usual due to recent events much to your annoyance. You were horror struck when just moments ago a fight broke out in which a demon, the demon from your visions at that, killed Mr. Wink right before your eyes.

“I’m leaving this place,” you mumble to yourself as you lug yet another delivery for the mages back at the coven, “I don’t like the feeling of any of this, and who knows, maybe everyone connected to this elf prince will die just because they talked to the damn guy.” Just then fate plays you like a fiddle and you slam into Nuada’s frozen body. You stumble back in several steps as he remains solid like a wall before you.

“I need you,” he says. You gawk at him and shake your head angrily.

“No! I won’t have any part in this,” you put your hands on your hips and raise your voice in agitation, “it was you who called me a liar anyways.” Nuada hesitates. He casts his eyes down onto the stone floor beneath him, his eyes glistening ever so slightly. He looks back up to you and steps forward.

“I know now I’ve been wrong, but I need to finish this and I cannot afford any more loss,” he begins. You squint in suspicion, you couldn’t guess what this was leading up to in the slightest.

“Perhaps the visions haven’t accounted for any interference of magic, you could cast some protection on me, couldn’t you? I’ll pay you double I’ll-“

“Stop, just stop.” Your head spins at the thought. What has been written cannot be challenged, you couldn’t change his fate. But he seemed to just threaten his way into getting what he wanted. Nuada’s face grew angrier, and you were afraid he would cut you down right then and there.

“I mean…there is no guaranteeing that it’ll change the end result, that much power is out of my hands, hell it’s even out of my mentor’s hands.” You measure your words to assuage him.

“So you’ll do it? Help me finish the crown?” Nuada stares at you excitedly. How he enraptured you with those yellow eyes. You close your eyes in a half prayer that the gods would help you and nod. Nuada steals your hand immediately and drags you out of the market, across the city, and to his dominion.

***

The outside of his kingdom had at first frightened you as it looked like an abandoned factory, then the golden light that filled the inside inspired awe in you. But you don’t have much time to absorb everything as Nuada was still dragging you further inside.

“Wait a minute, Nuada, wait!” You steal your hand back and nearly tumble forward. He flashes an annoyed look at you as you sooth your wrist in your other hand.

“You’ve dragged me across half the city to this place, there’s things I need to be able to do this,” you look around in your sack of packages, “I need to go back, I need-“

“You will find everything you need here I’m sure,” Nuada rolls his eyes at you and struts down one hall, he turns and urges you to come. He leads you down several corridors before stopping at a pair of ancient bronze doors. He watches your face as he pushes the doors open to reveal a highly advanced laboratory, your eyes widen in curiosity. You step in hesitatingly, then lunge at a book you recognized.

“How is this possible! This was said to be destroyed,” that old yearning student in you returns after so long and you circle the room repeatedly to observe all of the magical artefacts. You return to Nuada, smiling at him as if he had gifted you with something just for showing you the room. The corners of his lips turn upward, but he feels the weight of the crown on his body and turns solemn again.

“So will you do it? Protect me so I can finish this?” Your smile falters, the memory of the vision in the fire returns to you. He seemed so desperate beneath all that bravado he put on before you. Your heart ached but you knew you were partially under his mercy at this point. He seemed to always find you anyway. And something even deeper inside of you wanted him to need you.

“I will.”

***

“Drink this,” you hand Nuada a vial full of inky black liquid. You poured your entire self into it. You referred to texts you’d only ever dreamed of reading and petitioned with beings from other worlds. But none of them would help you, their reason all being the same: Nuada was ultimately going to die and there was no point in trying to play with time.

Any frustration you felt you hid with guilt because Nuada watched you intently as you worked. He was mesmerized by the way you, a human, manipulated energy for your own kind of magic. Now spent from all physical and mental energy, you lean with one hand on the stone table and rest the other on your hip, eager for Nuada to speak. He observes the vial and grimaces at the crackling fumes.

“Well?” You tilt your head to the side, trying to stifle a yawn. Nuada glances at you and lurches forward to grab your waist as you sway too suddenly to the side.

“I’m fine, just drink it,” you stiffen upright in embarrassment and feel yourself blush. You walk around the table with your back to him. Nuada sighs and takes another look into the bottle. Seeing that you weren’t going to acknowledge him, he tilts his head back and swallows it whole. His throat burns for a moment, his eyes and ears searing hot, before an icy sensation follows. Nuada lets out a fit of coughs, dropping the vial to the floor. You wince at every sound he makes, knowing it probably hurt, then finally turn around when he falls silent.

“How do you feel?” you ask. He looks at you a little irked, his chest rising and falling in shaky breaths. You see the liquid begin its effects as Nuada searches for his answer; black swirls blossom on his neck and hands, snaking around his skin like a spiderweb before dissolving. He glances at his hands just as the webs fade and he chuckles lightly.

“Come, you are tired, I can see it,” he beckons you to him and out of the lab without a word about the potion.

***

When he first brought you here, he was mercilessly dragging you across the halls, now the two of you drifted slowly back the way you came. He leads you to a small, quiet room with a few bookshelves on one side and a daybed by two long arched windows on the other. You plop down onto the chaise, finally releasing a yawn and stretching your arms up to the ceiling. Nuada sits at the edge of the daybed by your feet, looking solemnly at the side of your face as you peer out into the courtyard where pairs of elves whisk back and forth. Your smile falters after you turn to him. The rays of the setting sun pour into the room now.

“What’s wrong?” You scoot an inch closer to him and clasp your hands onto your knees.

“I cannot stop the doubt I harbor inside over this, the losses I’ve already been dealt…but I cannot stop or it will all have been for nothing,” Nuada says defeatedly. Your stomach drops at the thought of the cursed vision.

“Maybe this uncontrollable feeling you have is simply fate toying with you,” you hesitate to not stoke his ego, “I mean, do you really think you would intentionally sacrifice your friend, all of your own volition? Don't you think you can turn back and stop from making things worse?”

“Stop,” Nuada sneers and rises from the daybed. You jump up after him, suddenly feeling defiant.

“Nuada,” He turns back to you, you walked up behind him so quickly that the both of you gasp in synchronicity. You stand quietly for a moment, feeling the air between each other as if your souls were deciphering one another. You’re so close to him that you feel Nuada’s breath on your cheek.

“I…do this for my people, it is not for some personal gain,” he says shakily, “our lands, our kind, it is all for them.” Your eyes trail up from where they were fixated on his chest to his lips and then his eyes. He was fighting something internally, you could easily tell.

“At the cost of your loved ones?” you reply quietly. His eyes gleam, you knew that if you got him while he was so conflicted that you could end his vengeance against humanity and prevent his death entirely. You slide your hand slowly into his, he shudders at your touch, but allows you to interlock your fingers together.

He softens at the warmth of your hands, you were like a fire in an inviting hearth. You were so lovely in that moment, Nuada’s eyes traced your delicate features. He wanted to stay with you, let you comfort him, tell him he wasn’t at fault for the bad things that had happened in the past several days.

Please, please, please, please. You plead in your head over and over again, seeming to affect him little by little. Nuada takes a step into you, his entire body suddenly hungry for your light. The scent of petrol wafts into the room suddenly, snapping Nuada out of his daze. He drops your hand, his face now beyond furious. The only thing that filled his mind now was the rage he felt for humans whom destroyed the planet. You feel his energy shift and back away from him nervously.

“You are tired, I will let you rest,” he spins and leaves the room, almost entirely disappearing from the corridor as well. Internally panicking, you circle around the room. You didn’t know your way around this place, there wasn’t a soul outside, and you were too tired to think straight anymore. You sink into the daybed once more, your mind flaring with anxiety over Nuada’s whereabouts. You drift into an uneasy sleep.

***

“You may have mused in the past: am I mortal?” Nuada plunges his spear into Hellboy’s heart, “you are now.” The demon collapses to the floor and Nuada swiftly drags his sister to his side as everyone scrambles towards him. He threatens the fish-man, Abe, to bring him the final piece of the crown if he wanted to see Nuala again, then disappears from the room.

He returns to the elven throne room, dropping Nuala’s arm down in disgust, before having two guards keep her in her quarters until their departure for the entrance to the golden army. Nuada looks at his hands, watching the black liquid ripple beneath the surface of his skin. His mind jumps to you and he races down the hallway, a glimmer of hope in his heart that you were still tucked away in that small room. He slows his pace before the door and slides in quietly. You are nowhere to be found. In a fit of rage, Nuada unsheathes his spear and stabs the daybed mattress, causing plumes of feathers to burst out. As the feathers clear from the air, settling around Nuada in a white ring, he fixes his eyes outside the arched windows. There are elves promenading as usual, but he catches a head of hair distinct from the others. He watches you intently, you seem to be measuring up the courtyard. Nuada lets out a small huff of amusement, then collects himself to meet you.

"I thought I left you in that room," you were in fact attempting to measure how high the stone walls of the courtyard were when Nuada's voice surprises you from behind.

"I didn't know I was following any orders," you clasp your hands at your back. The prince eyes you up, seeming to fight a smile as well.

"That's not what I meant, forgive me," Nuada replies, "What were you doing here anyway? Does a witch like you need to climb a wall to escape from here?" Your face flushes.

"Well no I'm just amazed at how high the walls are here, I um, thought that if somebody were to scale it, you know," you trail off and wander towards the center of the courtyard. Nuada remains close on your heels.

"Come with me to the golden army," he blurts out. You whip around, the perplexed look on your face so fierce that Nuada looks away.

"Why? What for?" He doesn't answer, the wind picks up and his icy blond hair lashes about.

"I feel that when you are near..." he hesitates, the wind obscures his words so you step closer, "that I am more confident in my capabilities."

"That's not true, you just think that way because of the potion," you reason. He shakes his head and faces you again. You were like his guiding star, but he couldn't say that. He wished you could read his heart and make it easier for him, the way his sister could read his feelings and pain. The crackle of lightning chases the two of you back inside. You stare out into the now drizzling courtyard. You could feel the heat of Nuada's body emanating dangerously close to you, so you feign not noticing him. Obviously you wanted him to take you away, but what good would it do to go visit the place he was going to die in? No. You would stay put and forget the past several days had ever happened.

"I have no one else," he steps closer, you try backing away but your back hits a pillar and you look up at him. His large, hawklike eyes spoke more than he ever could.

"I can’t go with you Nuada..."

"Why not?" he snaps almost childishly. You frown and shrug your shoulders.

"Say you die there, what the hell will I be doing stranded in a place full of your enemies?" he looks down then back up, as if an idea popped into his mind.

"Why would I die? I will not fail to awaken the golden army. You can stay by my side during the war, I won't let any harm come to you-"

"But I am human," you cut him off, "what will I do in a world without anyone like me left in it?" Sure, people were shit to deal with, witches and normies alike, but in what world was genocide the answer? Nuada huffs in frustration. Slowly, you take a step towards him, he watches you eagerly. You raise a hand hesitatingly and hover it over his cheek. He leans into your palm absentmindedly, closing his eyes at the warmth of your skin.

Can he make this any harder? You bring your lips close to the other side of his face and plant a soft kiss above his jaw near his ear.

"I wish you luck, little prince," you whisper and step away quickly, using all of your energy to transport yourself outside of the elves' dwelling. You fly up and through the courtyard then back down to a quiet street. Between several gulping breaths you grab onto a nearby lamp post.

Please forgive me.

***

"If we die, then the world will be poorer for it," Nuada strains out his last words in pain. The wound in his chest pierced his heart, golden blood spilling out onto his clothes. Hellboy held him as he spoke, the demon looking regrettably at the prince's face. Nuala had sacrificed herself to stop her brother, now the two of them withered away in the golden army's chamber. The prince pushes himself away from Hellboy and stumbles towards his sister. Before he says anything more, he falls to his knees.

***

A soft light filters through Nuada's eyelids. He opens as the light grows stronger. What was this? He finds himself in an empty field. Soft warm wind blows over the long blades of grass and thousands of stars shine brightly above him. The edge of the eastern horizon was pink, soon the sun would rise. Nuada rises from the ground and gazes above in awe. There was such peace in his heart, the memories from before seemed trivial now as they drained away from his mind.

"Nuada," he whips his head towards your familiar voice. You stood before him, twinkling ever so slightly like the sky above.

"Is this real?" he asks as his hand grazes your hair.

"Yes, I'm sorry I wasn't there, but I don’t think I could have stopped it from even happening, I'm so sorry," your eyes begin to well up with tears. You had watched Nuada die through the gazing mirrors, and in grief you shattered the entire silver room into bits of glass, then were asked to leave the coven.

"Do not fret. None of that matters now," Nuada replies in a cooing manner, "tell me this instead, how is it possible that we are both here?" He wipes your tears from your cheeks.

"Well, I’m only dreaming, but you really are here, forever, and later you may find your father and sister, and maybe Mr. Wink," you laugh a little at the thought of the troll in this serene afterlife and wipe the remaining tears from your eyes. Another warm wind passes and Nuada takes a deep breath in. He seemed so different to you now. That once prideful and angry prince was gone, even the deep forehead ridges he had when he was alive were softer now. The sun was slowly breaking through the horizon, an orange glow filling half of the sky.

"I wish I could have known you in the past," Nuada says reluctantly. He knew since he was dead that seeing you would be next to rare now. You smile and step towards him, the two of you seeming to intertwine in each others arms like branches.