The Fairy King & The Hero

Aoide sat in the garden outside, perched underneath the shade of the nearby tree. The wind blew her long brown hair wildly, but she didn't mind as she was too wrapped up in the book that she was reading. This book was a present from her older brother, Evander, who had gotten it from a merchant passing through the kingdom the day King Arthur was inducted into the royal family. She had read this book so many times and could never get enough of it, her brother always teased her about being a bookworm. The book was about a young Irish princess, who had a strange encounter with a witch and needed to save her kingdom. "Ah, I knew I would find you here, Aoide." Aoide lifted her emerald, green eyes up from the page she was reading and smiled as her long-time childhood friend had come up the hillside. His dark blonde hair blew softly in the wind, his amber-colored eyes were filled with joy.

"What? Were you expecting me to be elsewhere, Finn?" Aoide quipped, brushing her hair with her hand.

"I thought with your King Arthur being inducted you would have been out in the town square celebrating with everyone else." Finn placed his hands in his pockets, shifting his weight onto his left leg. While Aoide had grown up with Finn, there was one large secret he had been keeping from her. He had hidden his true lineage from her, he wanted to tell her, but it wasn't easy telling someone you weren't human. And in this day in age, not being human scared mostly everyone.

"You know I prefer being up here reading than being in a crowded town square with people who get drunk." Aoide replied.

"Ah, that is so true." Finn smiled, nodding his head.

"I know you didn't come all the way up here to catch up, is there a reason you came to see me?" Aoide marked her page and closed her book, placing it down beside her.

"Yes, I did. I wanted to take you somewhere." Finn said, Aoide felt that something was off with the way Finn was acting, she always knew to always trust her gut. "Take me where Finn?" Aoide made small movements, hoping that Finn wouldn't catch onto her being suspicious of him.

"A garden that my Dad created, he made it for my mom before she died and he finally is letting me bring someone to look at it for the first time. I wanted to take you to see his garden. Are you up for it?" Finn asked, he walked a little closer to Aoide. He could see in her eyes that she didn't like this idea, he couldn't outright force her which meant that he had to rely on his magic.

"I don't think that's a good idea. Evan wouldn't want me to be out late, after all, he gets to come home early today."

"Please, it won't take that long. I promise I'll have you home at a reasonable time." Finn pleaded, Aoide placed her book in her bag and stood to her feet. Her white dress flowed gently in the wind as a breeze blew past the two, Finn took large steps forward until he was standing directly in front of her.

"I can't, Finn." Aoide shook her head, making eye contact with Finn. "Not today, I want to cook a celebratory dinner for Evander, and I need to go to the market. I'm sorry, Finn. We can do it another day." Aoide reassured, she went to walk forward, Finn grabbed her arm harshly. Aoide became alarmed, "Finn! Let go!"

"I'm sorry, but I need you to come with me Aoide."

"No, I said that I can't. You just have to accept that." Aoide argued.

"This is a matter of life and death, Aoide! You need to come with me." Finn lost his temper, "Aoide?!" In the distance, Evander was calling out for his sister. He had time to go see her and let her know about how his new job was going. He figured that she would be up on the hillside at this time of day, he knew his sister too well. "Evander!" Aoide called, Finn pulled Aoide into him causing her to scream out of fear. "Evander, Help!" When Evander heard his sister's scream, he knew that something was wrong. He immediately took in the direction that the scream had come from, pushing himself to run faster.

"Aoide!"

"Evander!!!"

Finn put a hand over Aoide's mouth, pulling her closer to his body. He panicked, knowing that Evander would kill anyone who dared to harm his little sister. As Evander got closer, he saw Finn holding his sister hostage. "Finn!!" Aoide struggled against Finn, who kept a strong, iron grip on her body.

"Finn, what are you doing?!" Evander questioned, his eyes filled with rage and concern as Finn sighed.

"I always wanted to tell you both who I truly am... What I truly am but I was afraid that you wouldn't want to stay my friend if I did..." Finn started, removing his hand from Aoide's mouth.

"What are you talking about?"

"I'm not human, Evander. I never was." A breeze blew past the trio, both Aoide and Evander standing too stunned to speak. Evander's eyes widened as Aoide looked back at Finn, the wind picked up and a bright yellow aura surrounded Finn. The siblings were both scared of what was to follow, two large beautiful transparent purple wings appeared on Finn's back. His hair grew longer, turning a lighter shade of blonde and his amber-colored eyes were now brown, his garments changed, and his ears became slightly pointed at the very tip. His clothes now consisted of a beige shirt made from the finest silk, black pants made of the finest fabric, and brown boots. "Wh--- What?" Evander questioned, feeling even more uneasy, he reached down and drew the sword he carried on his hip. "What the hell are you?" Evander demanded, "... You're a fairy.." Aoide concluded.

"You would be correct, my dearest Aoide. My apologies for revealing my true form so late."

"What do you want with my sister?" Evander asked, "... My father has requested that I take a bride... It's time for me to assume rule of the throne, he wants me to wed and bear an heir to take over when it's time. Aoide," He looked away from Evander, his eyes meeting hers. "I chose you to be my wife. I have always loved you, ever since the day you chased off the neighborhood bullies." He smiled, "I don't want to be your wife! I'm not going anywhere with you, Finn. If that is even your real name." Aoide bit back, she was angry and hurt. Hurt that Finn had hidden such a huge secret and was angry that he was making decisions for her. "Why my sister? Why Aoide?" Evander questioned.

"Because Evander, she's the only one worthy." Was all Finn said.

"Let her go, right now. You are not taking her." Evander demanded, "No can do, Evander. I must hurry before Father gets frustrated."

"I said you're not taking her anywhere." Evander swung his sword up and down, releasing a large wave of magic at Finn. Finn sighed heavily, "I'm sorry, Evander." He held out a hand, reflecting the attack back at Evander who didn't see it coming as he was shocked. Evander was hit in the chest and flew back, rolling down the hillside. "EVANDER!" Aoide cried, she tried to get away from Finn, but it was no use. "Now, now, Aoide. I didn't kill him, he'll be fine. We must go now." Finn said, "No, I'm going nowhere with you!! EVANDER!!" Aoide screamed, she struggled against Finn who rolled his eyes. "LET ME GO!" She tugged her arms, trying to get free. "Time for you to take a rest now." Finn waved his free hand over Aoide's face, the young woman being lulled into a peaceful state of unconsciousness. Finn caught her before she could hit the ground as she fell back, he picked her up and carried her bridal style. Evander groaned, coughing as he rolled onto his stomach and got onto his knees. When he heard Aoide go quiet, he reached for his sword and got onto his feet.

"AOIDE!!!" Evander shouted, he raced up the hillside, tripping over himself slightly. "I'll take care of her Evander, don't worry." With that, Aoide and Finn disappeared right in front of Evander and there was nothing he could do about it. "FINN!! GIVE HER BACK!!!!" Evander screamed but he got no answer. Evander let out a loud shout of anger, trying to compose himself. "How am I going to get to the Fairy Realm without being a fairy? No human can pass through that realm without the protection of magic... Not unless, I went to see Maeve." He slid his sword back in its sheath, and took a deep breath, before looking out at the town.

Maeve was the town's resident magical expert; she had a small shop in the center of Town Square. The shop, a haven for all things magical, was a testament to Maeve's expertise and unwavering passion. Within its walls, shelves were adorned with potions that shimmered like liquid stardust, spell books whispered ancient secrets, and crystals glimmered with ethereal light. Visitors would often find themselves entranced by the wonders that awaited them. Maeve herself embodied the essence of magic. Her eyes sparkled with arcane knowledge, and her hands moved with grace as she dispensed wisdom to those seeking guidance. With each interaction, she wove spells of inspiration and wonder into the hearts of those who crossed her path. The townsfolk relied on Maeve's expertise to solve their most perplexing problems or simply to indulge in the whimsy of the supernatural. Whether it was a love potion to ignite dormant flames or a protective charm to ward off misfortune, Maeve had an answer for every magical desire. As word of her talents spread far beyond the boundaries of the town, seekers of magic from distant lands began to venture toward Maeve's humble abode. Maeve herself, a mysterious figure draped in flowing robes, moved through the aisles like a ghostly presence. Her eyes, dark pools of ancient knowledge, seemed to hold the wisdom of countless generations. With a flick of her wrist or a whispered incantation, she could unlock hidden potential or bring forth forgotten realms.

Evander looked back at the tree, spotting his sister's favorite book on the ground, and sighed heavily.

"I'm coming sis, just hold on a little longer..." Evander took off down the hill and headed towards Maeve's shop.

Evander headed into town, nobody the wiser of what had just occurred as they were all too caught up in celebrating King Arthur's coronation. It was reaching the early afternoon and Evander was up against the clock, so he rushed through the marketplace and into the town square to get to Maeve's shop. Finally reaching her shop, Evander hesitated for a moment to walk in. He took a deep breath and shook off his nerves, opening the door without another thought. Stepping through the front door, Evander was shocked when he saw the inside of Maeve's shop. He couldn't believe how many books that this woman had, each one of them different from the next. They were filled with knowledge of all types of magic out there in the world and even spell books, potion books, and dozens of books on the different kinds of supernatural creatures. Maeve stepped out from the back, a warm look on her face as she saw Evander.

"Evander, it's truly been a while. What can I help you with?" She asked, her voice coming out calming.

"Please," he pleaded, "Maeve, I need your help. My sister is trapped in the Fairy realm, and I don't know how to reach her." Evander pleaded.

Maeve's gaze softened as she studied him. She knew the risks involved, but also understood the unbreakable bond between siblings. With a nod, she beckoned him inside. "I have just the spell," she whispered, her words laced with magic. "But be warned, Evander. The Fairy realm is treacherous and full of illusions. You must stay focused if you wish to bring your sister back."

Evander nodded solemnly; determination etched into every line of his face.

"Tell me what exactly happened, Evander. Leave nothing out." Maeve demanded.

"Ok..." Evander nodded, composing himself.

"I went to check on Aoide earlier in the day, she had gone up to her favorite hillside to read. When I was almost at the top, I heard Aoide scream for help. When I got there, Finn was holding her hostage for some reason... He revealed himself as not human."

"Finn's the Fairy Prince, isn't he?" Maeve asked.

"Yes, he is. His father told him that he needed to take a wife and produce an heir so that he may step down as King."

"And he found that Aoide was worthy."

"Yes."

"I get it... Follow me," Maeve led Evander to a room in the back, once he stepped through the curtain, he was shocked to see how much bigger the actual shop was. Maeve led him over to a book that sat on a small table, surrounded by two couches. Maeve walked around the table and took a seat on one side, while Evander sat across from her. Evander sat in the dimly lit room; his attention captured by the book on the table before him. Its worn cover was adorned with intricate patterns and symbols, all hinting at the secrets held within its pages. Across from him sat Maeve, a look of determination etched on her face as she thumbed through the book's contents. With a flick of her hand, the book opened to a page detailing the process of creating portals to The Fairy Realm. Maeve's fingers danced over the words, a faint breeze stirring the loose papers and sending them fluttering around the room. A small smile tugged at her lips as she finally found the spell she had been searching for.

"Evander," she said, turning to face him, "this spell will guide you to The Fairy Realm. But I'll also cast another one to keep you safe while you're there." Her tone turned serious as she added a warning, "However, I must caution you. If you find yourself in a confrontation with the Fairy King or Finn, you'll need more than just magic on your side."

With that, Maeve reached behind her neck and unclasped a delicate necklace. She held it out to Evander, explaining its purpose. "This necklace will offer protection against most Fairy Magic. If you ever find yourself in danger, simply call out my name three times and I will come to your aid." Grateful for her guidance and assistance, Evander accepted the necklace with a silent nod of thanks. He slipped the necklace around his neck, knowing that this was not going to be an easy journey.

"Take this as well," Maeve handed Evander a small potion bottle, Evander took it from Maeve and sat back in his seat, examining the small potion bottle in his hands.

"What is this?" He looked up from the bottle.

"The only thing that can kill the Fairy King. Be sure to use it wisely, use it wrong and it could either not be effective or it can kill the wrong person." She warned him.

Evander slipped the potion in his pocket, knowing that this was something that would come in handy.

"I must warn you now, The Fairy King isn't someone who can easily be pleased. The only thing that remotely even makes that Fairy smile is watching others in pain. Please be very careful when you come across him." Maeve grabbed Evander's hand, Evander gave her a small smile and nodded. "Thank you, Maeve."

"It's no problem. Take this with you as well." Maeve handed Evander a small book, Evander couldn't believe how heavy it felt when it actually looked relatively thin. "What's this?" He asked.

"A book about Fairy customs, culture and language. This will help you understand the way the Fairy Realm works while you are there to get your sister. It's very important that you do not lose this book."

"Alright. I won't." Evander tucked the book in his small bag which was sitting on his lap.

"Are you ready?" She asked Evander.

Evander hesitated for a moment, before nodding at her question. "I'm ready."

Maeve nodded and began conjuring up the portal. Her hands trembled as she began the incantation, the ancient words rolling off her tongue with an eerie power. The air crackled with energy as she raised her arms, the room flickering with the pulsating light of her conjuring. The air grew heavy with anticipation as she focused her will, weaving the strands of magic into the spell. With a final surge of concentration, she cast the spell into the world, unleashing its potent energies to fulfill her bidding. The room seemed to hold its breath as the incantation faded into the stillness, and all that was left was the lingering echo of her power. The very fabric of reality shifting warping under its weight. And then, in a blinding flash of light, Evander disappeared.

In that instant, he found himself standing on unfamiliar ground. The air was thick with enchantment, tinged with a hint of danger. Strange creatures flitted about, their ethereal forms shimmering in the soft glow of the mystical realm. Evander's heart pounded in his chest as he looked around, his eyes filled with determination. He would face whatever challenges lay ahead, for the sake of his sister.

At the castle...

Aoide awoke to find herself in a room fancy room, one fit for royalty. The room was adorned with opulent tapestries, and intricate designs capturing the essence of a bygone era. Sunlight streamed through stained glass windows, casting kaleidoscopic patterns on the polished marble floor. Aoide's eyes widened as she took in the sight of gilded furniture and sparkling chandeliers that hung from the ceiling like crystalline stars. She rose from the plush velvet bed, her bare feet sinking into the softness of an intricately woven carpet. As she moved towards the ornate vanity, she caught a glimpse of herself in the elaborately framed mirror. Her reflection revealed a woman transformed, her brown hair cascading down her shoulders, framing a face touched by a newfound radiance. Yet amidst all this grandeur, Aoide couldn't shake off a sense of unease. She couldn't remember how she had come to be here or why she found herself in this lavish prison. She sat up slowly in bed, the sheet falling down her chest and she looked down. Noticing her clothes were very different from what she was wearing before only fueled her anxiety and confusion. Without a word, the memories came flooding back of how Finn came to see her, then he tried to kidnap her, and Evander came to the rescue. She remembered Finn revealing his true self to them and he told them about needing a wife and heir to take the throne and then she blacked out, it was now that she realized that Finn had kidnapped her.

"Oh dear god... He really brought me to the Fairy Realm! I need to get out of here. But how? How can I get out of here without being seen?" She thought to herself.

Aoide placed her feet on the floor, pacing the room as she tried to figure out a way to get out of the castle. But where would she go after escaping the palace? As she was too wrapped up in thought, she didn't notice the door opening.

"Hello, you must be our Queen to be-" Aoide spun around quickly, noticing the fairy attendant coming into the room. If she was going to get out of here, she needed to do it now. Without saying anything, she ran towards the door and knocked over the poor fairy attendant. He stumbled backward, landing unceremoniously on his rear. Without a moment's hesitation, Aoide continued her mad dash. But fate had other plans in store for her. As she rounded a corner with blinding speed, she collided with an imposing figure—a tall, captivating Fairy whose presence commanded attention. Breathless and bewildered, Aoide stared in awe at the beauty of this Fairy in front of her. His attire spoke of regality, adorned with intricate embroidery and shimmering jewels. A cloak of midnight blue cascaded down his broad shoulders, billowing behind his wings. The symbol of his lineage was emblazoned upon his chest, a testament to his noble heritage. But it wasn't just his appearance that set him apart; it was the power that radiated from within. Sparks danced along his fingertips, hinting at the magic coursing through his veins. He possessed a command over the elements, able to summon storms or calm raging seas with a mere flick of his wrist.

His cerulean eyes sparkled with intrigue, mirroring her own astonishment. Time seemed to stand still as their gazes locked in an electric connection. Unbeknownst to Aoide, this chance encounter would alter the course of her escape and lead her down a path she never could have anticipated. She had run into the Fairy King.

"Well, well, well, what do we have here? Trying to escape the palace, are we?" The Fairy King quipped amused.

"Who are you? What do you want?" Aoide asked startled. The Fairy King just smirked as he stepped closer towards Aoide, who was beginning to feel very uneasy.

"Oh, just a concerned citizen offering some friendly advice. It's dangerous out there, you know. So many wicked creatures lurking in the shadows. You wouldn't want to fall prey to them, would you?"

Aoide looked at the Fairy in front of her with suspicion, "Thank you for your concern, but I can take care of myself. I must leave this palace, it's not safe for me here."

The Fairy King chuckled, throwing his head back slightly.

"Oh, my dear, you have no idea how safe you are here. This palace is the only place where you'll be protected. Outside these walls, the darkness waits for you."

"I will take my chances. I cannot stay here any longer. I have to find a way to break out of here and go back home. I'm not meant to be here." Aoide stayed determined to leave, she wanted to go home. The Fairy King took several steps closer to her until he was standing just an inch away from her. He bent down slightly, putting his lips to her ear which made Aoide shudder in disgust. She couldn't stand the scent of his breath, "You cannot escape your destiny, Aoide. You belong to Finn, and I will not let you go so easily. Not when there is a whole Kingdom at stake."

"What do you mean? Who are you?" Aoide stepped back cautiously.

With one wave of his hand, the fairies' appearance changed, and a gold crown adorned his head. "I am the Fairy King, Hades. Ruler of this realm, and you are the chosen one to become my son's queen. You will not leave this palace alive."

"No, I won't let you keep me here against my will!" Aoide argued. "I'm going to leave this palace whether you want me to or not. I don't care if you're the Fairy King, I'm not going to give up on getting back home." Aoide added, her eyes shone with determination and fierceness. She was not going to let the Fairy King intimidate her.

The Fairy King only smiled with malicious intent, "We shall see about that, my dear. It's time for you to realize your true place in this world. And it's not out there, it's here with Finn."