forum You think you scare me just because you're Fae?

Started July 22, 2021 by @Fenrir

tune

Easton sat down as well. "Who knows, you might turn me into an animal lover. Still a big maybe." He took Abrose's hand, pressing his lips to the back of it. "I love you. All I want is to see you smile." Easton tucked a couple of loose strands behind Abrose's ear, resting his hand on his cheek. "When you smile, I am positive that the world is smiling back, and then the sun shines a little brighter. I want to drown you in kisses whenever I see that smile. If you feel like you want to come back here even for a second, you tell me, okay? I want to make sure that you are the happiest man in the world. Got that?" Easton kissed his forehead cheek and pecked his lips. "I love you."

Even though Nick was looking out the window, he thought about Mel and his vivacity. Everything about him was amazing. Mel was still amazing even when he didn't know all of the details. He only wished that he could realize it. He also reminded him to stay his distance when needed. He messed with his hair as he stared at the clouds. "I'm in way too deep if I keep thinking like this…"

"I love you more, dear." He murmured, pressing a kiss to Easton's palm, glancing down momentarily at the stag as his grumpled in protest as Abrose momentarily paused his petting. He rolled his eyes playfully before returning his gaze back up to Easton's. "I only need you and my family to be happy, Easton. It doesn't matter where we go." He reassured, a laugh bubbling up in his chest as he gladly kissed Easton back. Sensing that he wasn't going to get much attention, the stag huffed and stood, shaking himself off before walking off towards the starry treeline, leaving the two alone. Ambrose tugged Easton closer now that the spirit animal wasn't in the way. "I don't think I asked you before but are you sure you're okay with this? With the sudden move and leaving this life behind to start another? There's always the option of going with Mel, like Nick is doing. I know it's a bit late minute but you don't have to board with me today. I'll go over and set everything up for when you and Mel and the others come, just to make sure we have a good foundation." He offered, slightly guilty for practically dragging Easton into a drastically different life so quickly.

"So, how is our guest?" Veda asked as he emerged from a study and fell into step with Mel. The physician had left the kitchen to tend to a few last minute affairs in his study and had only now gottwn the chance to take a break to check in on Nick, but not before finding Mel in he halls.
Mel have his friend a withering glare, knowing him to well not to recognize the slight mock in his voice. "You can find out yourself once you check in on him." He replied simply, stopping by an open window and gazing out on the estate grounds. Veda paused beside him and huffed a sigh. "Mel please. Focus on getting Abrose and the rest to safety. Nick isn't going anywhere and neither will your or his growing feeling towards each other."
Mel couldn't help but feel a twinge if annoyance but he knew Veda was right. "I know. That's all I've been doing all my.life after all. I just need a break from all," he waved a hand in the air. "Of this. Of the queen, of being other's hope. I need a break."
Veda gently squeezed Mel's shoulder "I know, we all do. you most of all. But don't let Nick be like all the other breaks you've had. You and him deserve better, despite our reservations about him. He seems to make you happy. Happier than any other man you've let into your life." Mel scoffed but nodded. "I hope you're right and this isn't just one of my wild fantasies."

Easton shook his head. "No, no, I want to go with you. Besides, there isn't much of a life I had here anyway. You know that I thought my only purpose was to find those who broke laws and possibly have them killed. If anything, I'm glad to leave that behind. I promise you I am completely fine." He gave Abrose a reassuring kiss. "If you say you're fine, then I'll stop asking. I worry about you, love. However, you are one of the most sarcastic, strong, loving, independent men I know." Easton kissed him on the forehead. "Next to me." He teased.

Nick did his best not to listen in on their conversation and instead decided to listen to nature and the great outdoors. If only he could understand animals and their thoughts then maybe his life would be more interesting. He closed his eyes resting his head down onto the window still. "I wonder what's taking him so long, but he didn't want to seem like the pushy type, so he stopped his curiosity and continued he nature watching, blocking out all sound, but the sounds of nature. He could fall asleep any mintue if he kept this up.

Abrose hummed softly at the kids, relaxing into his hold. He sighed softly, gently cupping his cheek. "Only if you're positive." He watched Easton for a few more moments, making sure for himself he was alright. He reached up and pressed a kiss to his brow, breaking out into a laugh. "I'm okay, dear creature, maybe not completely aye-okay rainbows and sunshine 24/7 but I'm doing better." He reassured, giggling softly "ah but of course. Never had I met someone else more sarcastic than you, my love." He teased back. "But thank you, genuinely thank you for staying by my side." He murmured.

Veda gave his friend another squeeze before heading off towards Nick's room. Nick watched him walk off, desperately wanting to call him back, to say he's take care of whatever Nick needed, to do anything if only to be near him again. But Veda had been right. Mel had other priorities to take care of first. With a deep sigh, Mel took one last look at his home land, where he had made his family right under the noses of the very monarchy who had sworn to kill anyone like Veda,Kira, Esther, or Genevieve. He was proud of what he had accomplished here, proud of the people who had helped him get here and only hoped he'd be able to continue helping others even over seas.

Easton nodded. "I'm positive. I never tell you how much I love your laugh. Honestly, it sounds beautiful; it's only a shame it doesn't last long. I am glad you're doing better." he nuzzled his head in the crook of Abrose's neck. "Of course, my love, before I never expected myself to be anywhere near you if I'm being honest. Even when we met that night, I broke your dagger. I was far away from you but so close at the same time. Everything feels so surreal, but I wouldn't change a thing even so. If I had the chance to do things differently, something I would change, but if it meant I didn't get to be with you like this, then no, I wouldn't change a thing. You don't have to thank me, darling. I should be thank you. You help me see so many things. So thank you." he pecked his neck up to his lips.

His eyes shifted from a tree to the door as he heard footsteps coming near it. They were different from Mel's. He assumed they were Veda's and slowly walked over to the couch and started to straighten up the blankets and clean up a bit. He didn't want to leave a mess, as he was still a guest in someone else's house. He sat himself down slowly. He was calming himself down, trying to remove the thoughts of Mel popping into his head. Like the way his eyes would sparkle when the sunlight hit them just right, or when he laughed, it sounded like a beautiful bell echoing in his mind. He cleared his throat, feeling his ears grow hot.

Abrose huffed another laugh. "You'd harass me again?" He teased, stroking through Easton's hair and pressing soft kisses to his skin. "I could do without the night you stopped to make fun of me and tease me coming back from the wedding. I'm sure we would have met eventually though." He smiled softly, nuzzling into his Love's shoulder, blushing at the kisses. "I will still thank you anyways. For all the love you've shown me." He mbled against Easton's lips.

Veda knocked softly before entering, pausing by the door for a moment and scanning around before a ghost of a smile appeared on his lips. "He does have that affect on many." He mumbled as he strode towards Nick. "You seem to be better," he greeted warmly, settling beside Nick on the ground and rummaging through his bag of medical supplies. "How are your wounds?" He asked, as he motioned for Nick to lift his shirt.

"My love, my darling sunshine, when you put it like that, no, I would never harass you again. You know what I mean, though." He hummed from the touches. Easton's body was fully relaxed as he hugged Abrose. "I could do without that night too. Not the best first impression, but I can't change that now. I'll appease you, but only so you can stop saying thank you." He leaned his head against Abrose's, looking out into the room again. "You're welcome. I'm never leaving your side, I promise. I'm ready to go back to sleep, but we have to get on that boat soon, right? I like the idea of sleep much better."

"What effect is that?" He raised an eyebrow for a second, trying to seem like he didn't know what he was talking about. "I do feel better enough to walk and move around, but lifting or stretching that side seems impossible." He lifted his shirt as instructed. "Mel changed my bandages today after I almost pulled my wound open again. This morning, I got a little frustrated when I realized that I couldn't even take off my shirt, but don't worry, I'm mentally fine now. I can't say much for this little guy." Nick said, referring to his wound.

"I do, know. But I like to tease you, dear. Consider it payback for when we first met." He teased with a knowing grin. "I like your feisty side. I adore all of you, my beautiful creature." He reassured, pressing his lips to Easton's temple as he poked around as well, watching as the leaves caught the reflection of the stars. On occasion he'd see a blur if white, the stag moving about and watching over them. "Sleeping here for a while with you sounds like heaven, but you are right. We should get going now if we want to catch the boat." He pressed one last kiss to Easton's lips before reluctantly pulling back and starting to stand.

Veda arched an eyebrow back and gave Nick an all too knowing look before getting back to work. "It's good that you're able to move. Straining the muscle though may be uncomfortable for a bit until the would heals. That might be a bit longer now that you've disturbed it but nothing too severe. Mel did good job." He mused, carefully unwrapping the bandages to see how the wound was healing before rewrapping them up. "Frustration is natural when one is injured." Veda replied softly, writing down a few notes. "Not being able to take care of yourself makes you feel useless." He explained, glancing up at Nick for a second. "If you ever need anyone to speak with, I'm available. Though I'm sure you have Mel to speak with as well." He offered gently. Setting aside the notebook and gathering his things.

Easton stood up after Abrose, fallowing close behind as they exited the room. He gave a big yawn, rubbing his eyes. They adjusted to the sudden light slowly, but eventually, his sight was back to normal. "All ready to go? Where are Mel and Nick? I could've sworn I heard them saying something about seeing us off." He shrugged and held Abrose's waist as they walked. "The boat ride is going to be long. That is something I dread very much. I do not want to stay on a boat for so long, but if it means we have a chance of starting over, I'd gladly do it a hundred times over." Easton kissed his cheek.

"Thank you for the offer, and I might take you up on that. Mel has enough to worry about; he doesn't need to add me to the pile. Not that I want to project my problems onto you or anything like that, it's just I don't want Mel to feel like it's his responsibility to help me through it, you know?" Nick sighed, watching what Veda was writing. "Yeah, it does…" He flashed a quick smile. "What are you writing down? Or is it just notes in case anything like this happens in the future?" He pulled down his shirt, straightening it out. He pulled the blanket over his shoulders, as he was cold and in need of warmth.

Abrose blinked rapidly at the sudden change of lighting as they left the beautiful room. "We'll find them soon, I'm sure. Probably just running around getting last minute tasks in order." Abrose reasured, resting his head against Easton's shoulder. "Hopefully this will be the only time we go on a boat." He laughed softly, equally dreading the four day trip much like Easton was. While he could never complain spending time with the one he loved, the situation that had brought them to this point, and the uncertain future they were driving head first to, had been building Abrose's anxiety all morning.

Veda breathed a laugh and shook his head. "It's too late for that now. Once you're in his life, it's very hard for him to ignore you. You in particular since you have more of a pull on his heart than the rest of us." He bowed his head "but I do understand your hesitation. If it helps, Know that we've all been through hardships. Though not equally, we all have needed someone to hear us out. If not Mel or I, then anyone else here I'm sure would be willing to listen to what you have to say." The physician looked down at his notes "just a record of your condition. In case anything were to affect you in the future, I have something to refer to in case they relate." He explained, packing them away into his bag and picking it up. "If you're well enough, come join us. I think it's about time for the send off." He offered, nodding his head to the door.

"I'm afraid that won't be happening. We do have to visit here every once in a while, yes? I'm afraid going on a boat again is inevitable. Is there something else you're worried about? I feel like something is wrong. I know you're getting better since the whole…well, you know, but you seem uneasy." Easton kissed Abrose's forehead. "Of course, if I'm reading you wrong, then feel free to tell. I am your lover, after all." They were close to the estate entrance, where their things were neatly placed next to the door, ready to leave.

"Well, I can't say I'm complaining. I was never planning to leave his life in the first place. The moment I saw him, well, it was blurry because I was bleeding and fighting and everything else, but I don't know it was…different than before. Different than anyone else I've looked at." He looked up to Veda and then sucked in a sharp breath. "Well, uh anyway, enough about that. I feel like you don't want to hear about what I feel for Mel.“ He stood up slowly, following Veda out the door. "Wouldn't miss it." He whispered, walking more slowly than he usually would have. "By the way, who should I ask for the recipe on the pastries. I would like to try my hand at them one day." He added.

"until Mel and Nick come over, yes. And of course anytime we want to visit old friends, yes." He replied, dropping his head onto Easton's shoulder with a small sigh. He reached up and gently pecked Easton the lips. "You're far more than a lover to me, dear. And no, you're not wrong. I'm just….nervous I guess. I've never been out of the kingdom, much less the continent. I don't know how it's going to be over there, if it's better or worse than here. If it's going to be even possible to make a living being what I am over there." He shrugged slightly, trying to shake this uneasy feeling off. "I'm sure it's just moving nerves. That's normal, right?" He gave a soft smile, trying his best to be optimistic. He glanced up as Mel came back in through the front doors, dusting off dirt from his tunic. "Ah good! You're here!" he greeted warmly, gaze flicking around the room for a moment before pointing behind him. "We just got the horses ready, three should be enough to carry everything and everyone." He said, shouldering one of their bags and carrying it outside.

Easton cupped Abrose's cheeks giving a forehead kiss. " Completely normal to feel like that I promise. I can't say that I know what it's like outside, but I get a feeling we'll be just fine. Maybe a little rough at the start, but we'll find our footing. I have enough money that we should be fine for a couple of months while figuring out the housing issue." Easton looked back to Mel nodding. "Thank you Mel so much, for everything. I owe you a lot. If you ever need anything from me I'll be happy to comply." Nick bowed before standing straight up.
"Why is Easton bowing?" Nick slowly walked over to the group. He flashed a smile to Mel before looking towards Easton.
"Hey, how are you feeling. Should you be walking? You don't have to come if you're feeling unwell." Easton gave him a tight hug before letting go.
"Watch the wounds I wouldn't want to get hurt more because of you." He joked.
"Oh right. Are we all ready to go?" Easton held Abrose's waist once more pulling him close.

Abrose exhaled a relieved sigh, leaning into Easton gratefully. He murmured a small 'thank you, my love' before looking back up as Nick came back inside. He broke away from Easton to give his friend a tight hug. It felt wrong to leave someone he had known his while life, especially someone like Mel. "You'll be alright without me," Mel murmured softly, glancing down at abrose and pressing a soft kiss to his hair. "We'll see each other before we know it, you'll have Easton and a new job and home occupying your time that it'll feel like time has flown by when we go over there." He promised, smiling encouragingly at Abrose before turning to Easton. Mel shook his head, "you owe me nothing," Mel replied softly. "You make Abrose happy, and you clearly love him. That's all I could ever ask for." he laughed and gently nudged Easton up by touching his shoulder. "I barely deserve to bowed at, much less thanked." He reassured, snapping his attention up as Nick spoke, his cheeks tinged pink. He eventually gave a nod as he saw Veda and Evangenline round the corner, both in more comfortable riding attire. "We are, as much I wish we weren't."

Easton chuckled. "It'll be alright. I'm sure we'll be fine on the way there and when we get there." He grabbed the bags from the door. "I can carry them both, you guys get on the horses. I can keep up with you guys if I run." He was only saying this because he didn't want to get on a horse. He barely liked touching them much less riding on them. Soon enough he'll have to get over his fear, but for right now he wasn't going anywhere on a horse. However, he did ride one once but even so he was filled with adrenaline and slightly passed out, so he wasn't really thinking. "I don't know the way there so you guys will have to lead me." Nick raised his hand like he was back in school, "Neither do I so you have two people to leade Mel. Unless I'm on a horse with you."

Abrose glanced at Easton with slight worry as they all made their ways to the awaiting horses. Malian had been loaded with one of the lighter if the two bags, leaving enough room for riders. "You're sure, love? She won't do anything." He reassured, swinging a leg over the mare's back and settling comfortably. He knew Easton was uncomfortable with any animal taller than him but didn't want him to be tired on his run. Mel, Veda, and Evangeline got onto their horses. Mel offered his hand to Nick, flashing a smile. "And here I thought afyw practically dragging onto a horse before, you'd never want to ride with me again." He teased,

Easton pursed his lips together and stepped towards the horse before backing away. He clutched the bag he was holding and waved his hand. “It’s okay, darling I’ll be fine. Besides, I don’t get tired easily because I’m a fake and all. Besides, I need the exercise.” Easton kissed Abrose's hand before moving away from the horse once more. “I promise I’ll be fine. Lead the way. I’m all set.” Nick gave Abrose a reassuring nod.
“Oh please,” Nick managed to get on and get comfortable on the saddle, all without hurting himself. He wrapped his hands around Mel’s waist to hold himself there but also to hold Mel against him. He discovered he liked the feeling. “Now you're just putting words in my mouth.” He whispered in a soft, whisky voice next to his ear. “I’m just teasing,” Nick added before moving slightly back to give Mel the space he needed to ride the horse. “I’m all good too.”

Abrose persed his lips as he brushed a gentle hand along Easton's cheek. "Alright, if you're sure. There's plenty of room in you get tired." He gently nudged Melian into a light walk, having her go in small circles just to make sure she was warmed up.
Mel gasped softly as Nick's arms wrapped around his waist. He would have gladly melted into the embrace if it weren't for the audience currently around him. He clentched the reins slightly, tilting his head up to glance over to Nick. "I'm the tease? After what you just did now?" He smirked, kicking his horse into a run before Nick could respond or before he could catch Veda's dissaproving glare. Abrose breathed a light laugh, gave one last glance at Easton then encouraged Malian into a gallop after Mel, veda and Evangeline behind him

Nick was caught off guard and held Mel's waist tighter as the horse galloped. "You're mere existence is a tease, my dear." He chuckled lightly. He loved how the wince felt in his hair. He also loved how skilled Mel was on a horse. He blushed slightly picturing something he shouldn't have. He looked into the forest instead of Mel, filling his thoughts with trees and all of the different types of leaves that could grow on a tree. Then he started to list fruits. Easton on the other hand through the ride there was keeping up perfectly and was really tired. If anything it was more of a jog than a run for him. "Tell me when we're close so I can slow down."

“One of my infinite charms dear, how do you think I managed to remain a beloved lord while becoming the leader for the rebellion?” He called over his shoulder, straightening slightly as he pulled his horse into a slower walk. He glanced over his shoulder at the rest of the group, making sure they were alright. “We’ll be entering the main port town soon.” He announced, coming to a stop to let Vedas horse and Abrose’s mare stop beside him. “Veda and I know the captain personally so it should be no issue boarding Abrose and Easton. But I have no doubt The Queen has doubled the amount of guards posted in the ports. We’ll have to keep a low profile now until the ship has sailed. Do not give your identities to anyone except for the captain. As for the rest of us when the ship leaves, we’ll remain hidden until e reach the border of the town.” Veda nodded, pulling a black hood over his head, shadowing his features. Evangeline, Abrose, and Mel did the same.
“In the event we get caught, then what?” Veda asked, keeping pace with Mel. “Surely someones bound to recognize two ex fae-soldiers, a royal horse and a nobleman. “Even if its not by the guards themselves, there are enough people willing to hand us straight over to the queen.” Mel stiffened as he kept his gaze forwards. “We leave the horses won the outskirts of town then. If e are recognized and forced into an altercation. You and Evangeline steal the nearest horse and get the Hell out of there.” Mel replied, refusing to meet either of the two’s worried glances. “And what of Abrose and Easton? What about you and Nick?” Veda pressed, rounding his horse so that it blocked Mel’s stallion. “I refuse to leave you behind Melisande” He growled out. Mel studied his friend for a few moments. “And I refuse to get all of us caught.” He replied calmly, leaving Veda silent in contemplation. “If we are confronted by guards, you all are to leave in whatever way you can. If it means boarding that ship with Abrose and Easton, so be it.”
“ And you?” Veda whispered, almost scared to hear what Mel would be willing to do.
Mel shrugged, maneuvering his horse around Veda’s. “I, as always, am a willing sacrifice. For the safety of the people I love, I’d gladly walk into the lion’s den.”
“And for those that love you?” Veda called, watching for a few moments before following.
Mel chuckled softly “I’d hope you’d have a smarter head on your shoulders than to risk your lives for mine.”

Easton jogged to a stop and adjusted the bag on his shoulder. He nodded, listening to Mel. He quietly walked over to Abrose and held his hand. "Hey…you'll be okay, right? We're walking straight into danger, and I want to make sure you're okay with all of that. I know we don't have a choice, but you know what I'm trying to say." Easton kissed his hand. "I wouldn't want you getting hurt again or going through anything like at the castle. Just tell me if you see anything strange. I know you're independent, but I can still worry about you." He chuckled. He turned Mel, took a deep breath, and nodded. "I'm ready for anything, and I'll try my best to stay hidden or at least not stand out."

Nick was also serious about this. It was essential to get his best friend and his lover across the world to live in peace. Of course, he would gladly take the fall, but he also hopped it never has to come to that. "I'll listen out for discussions and footsteps. I'll keep tabs on who suspects us and who will stay quiet. I'll keep you updated. I think I can't do much, but I want this to go well. If it doesn't, we're all dead meat. Let's get through the town and help these lovers get to where they need to go." He raised an eyebrow. "As much as I love your loyalty, it would mean nothing if you were already dead to give anything back. Me careful, alright. I wouldn't want anything happening to you."

Abrose hadn't realized he was gripping the reins of his horse until he looked down at Easton beside him. He took a deep breath and nodded, "thank you, dear, I will." He whispered, brushing Easton's knuckles with his thumb. He hadn't realized the amount of danger they were putting Mel and everyone else in but letting them come to the docks. He knew Mel was reckless and would put his life on the line to save others but Abrose, as well as everyone else he was sure, wouldnt be so willing to let the lord die so easily.

Mel nodded slightly and nudged the horse onward. "Come now dear. You'll have to have a bit more faith in me that that. How long has did it take you to realize I was right beneath your noses until you caught onto who I was?" He shook his head and lightly rested a hand over Nick's. "If it really does bother you, I promise I'll be careful. I might sound cocky but I know what I'm doing. W'ell get Abrose and Easton to the ship. Then we'll all get out of there safely." He promised, gently squeezing Nicks hand before letting go and rugging his hood over his head completely, obscuring his features from any prying eyes

Easton pressed one last kiss on his hand before pulling the hood over his head. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary when he started to enter the village. More guards were patrolling, but none seemed to pay any mind. They were either playing cards or smoking behind the building. Honestly, it looked they didn't even care. Of course, Easton would've whipped them into shape if he were there. They're not doing their job correctly, and it frustrated him. Either way, this was good; it meant they could pass through more effortlessly, but even so if they managed to get spotted, it would be over. He stuck by Abrose's horse, just to make sure he wouldn't get seen.

Nick whispered a thank you before pulling over his hood just enough so no one could see him, but enough that he could still hear without it being muffled. He kept his head down and listened for voices, but all he heard was laugher and merchants selling what they had. He heard the guards talking about them, but they didn't seem to notice they were there. "Sometimes, I wonder what these guards are doing. I used to waste time, but never like this. Even so, Easton would've kicked my ass if I wasn't standing up and patrolling as I should be." He scoffed. "What a time," he whispered.

Abrose peeked up under his hood just to make sure he was steering Malian in the right direction. He caught glimpses of familiar guard attire among the far and humans alike in the port town. While clearly the fan were better off the humans he saw, Abrose ordered if he would have faired better here than closer to the capital. He could have blended in better with humans, hidden his magic better. If he ever needed to escape, all the would have had to do was get on a ship and leave, no need to sneak around. Than again, he wouldn’t hav met Mel and his family or Easton. Taking the risk of living among fae would have been worth it a million time over if he could find his family. He sucked in a breath and lowered his head as they passed a group of fat soldiers talking amongst themselves.
“Another load off to the southern isles?” One chuckled, as he sidled up to Mel’s horse. “I see you’re turning over a new leaf, your grace.” Abrose bristled slightly, pulling Melian back a bit just in case the other guards saw him. He’d need enough room to round the horse and run for it.

Mel gave an easy smile , brushing a light hand over the guard’s own one that rested against his stallion’s neck, causing the guard to pull back in surprise. “A new leaf? Whatever do you mean dear?” He asked sweetly, batting his eyes at the now blushing guard. “I’m merely cashing in my profit. I work very hard for our dear queen. As must all of you, no? I try and do my part.” The guard blinked rapidly, flicking his gaze to Abrose and then Veda behind him. “Yes. I can see that. My apologies. Would you like an escort, your grace? It seems you have quite the load.” The guard offered, narrowing his eyes slightly until Mel tilted the guard’s chin up to meet his eyes. “No dear, don’t worry about a thing. Most is really a precaution on my part. I’ll be sure to request you specifically if I need any assistance. Now if you’ll excuse us, our ship is leaving soon.” He winked and let go, nudging his horse into a trot towards the dock’s where a ship awaited, a female clad in black and gold waiting for them by the ship’s entrance.

Easton let Mel talk so they could pass through. He didn't like how it was done, but it helped them get across. He kept his head down and watched the horse's movements so he could know when to stop and start walking. He let out a sigh of relief when the ship was in view, and the smell of seawater filled his nose. "We made it." He whispered. Easton helped Abrose down from the horse and threw the bags over his shoulder. He turned back to Mel and Veda. "Thank you for everything, especially for sticking your necks out like this. I know you could easily get caught as well. Be careful on your trip back, okay? And Nick?"

Nick bit back his words and kept moving. He heard their conversation but didn't dare to look over. He knew Mel would get on him if he tried to intervene. It was such a small interaction, yet it somehow made his heartache. It was moments like these where he hated his powers. How detailed they were. He could imagine the scene in his head with just the sounds. The way Mel touched his hand and tilted the guard's chin. When the horse started to move again, it snapped him out of his thoughts. Nick shook off the meaningless jealousy and stayed focused on the task at hand. This was a time for Abrose Easton, not his feelings for Mel. He watched the village and the guards fade away as they entered the port. He got down from the horse once they pulled to a stop. "Yeah?" He asked. He cleared his throat.

"Don't die on your way back home, please. The next time I see you, I would like to see you in one piece." Easton ruffled his hair and took Abrose's hand. "Mel, Take good care of him. I will see you soon." He turned back to Abrose and nodded. "Ready?"

"Shut up, you menace. I'll be fine." Nick punched him in the shoulder and took a step back so Mel and Veda could say their goodbyes.

Abrose slid down from Malian with Easton's help, realsinf a shaky breath as it finally dawned on him. They'd be free, finally. He patted Malian in appreciation before one of the crew members took her reigns and bribed her with apples towards the hull of the boat, where'd she'd be kept safe until they reached the southern continenet.
Mel had gotten off his own horse to greet the captain, hugging the woman and exchanging teasing remarks before he turned back to the group. "This is Captain Selene. She'll be bringing you to the southern continent." He explained as the woman beside him tipped her chin in greeting. "Not that is a true sight. A fae and a human. Abrose Nightingale no less. And the captain of the royal guard. How very interesting." She mused. "Youbw come to the right person to snuggle you over seas." She reassured before walking off to ready her crew and ship for departure.
Mel laughed and glanced back at Easton. "I've told you, dear. There's no need to thank me. I need nothing more than yours and Rose's safety." He reassured, Veda nodding his head beside him in agreement. Mel tugged Abrise into a tight hug. "And you, be safe, alright. I want to see you both well off when I come over." He ordered, pressing a soft kiss to Abrose's hair. "Be safe, Rose." Mel released him with a soft smile and nodded to the boarding dock. "She's impatient. Go." He said gently, nodding to Easton. "He could be in no better hands." Mel reassured with a knowing grin. "We'll see you both soon." He called, watching as the pair strode off to the ship. Mel mounted his horse, watching with tears in his eyes until departures were being called and orders to lift the anchor were ringing throughout the docks

Easton nudged Abrose towards the ship. "We'll see them again soon." Easton was glad he could start over. Maybe not entirely over, but he would try. For his sake and Abrose's sake. "You go on first, okay?" Easton bowed his head slightly to the captain to show his appreciation. "Do you need help getting on the ship, love, or are you okay?" He tossed the bags onto the ship once they were close enough. He knew there were essential things there and made sure nothing broke while he put them on. He took Abrose as his priority in ensuring he was safe while getting onto the boat. He was never too sure about ships and the ramps leading up to them. What if they broke while his love was walking on it.

Nick gave a final wave before mounting Easton and Abrose's horse beforehand. "Come on, Mel. We'll see them soon." He moved the horse closer to Mel's, so he could wipe his tears. "Let's get out of here before the queen has our heads." He waited for Mel to move first, partially to know He was okay and because he didn't know the way back to the estate enough to lead them away from the dock. He looked back momentarily, seeing Easton and Abrose's figures get farther away from the more they walked towards the ships. Soon it would be time for their departure on a boat. They would get to see each other again. Nick rubbed Mel's back up and down. "When we get back, we can get ready for our departure. The soon we start working, the better."

Abrose sucked in a breath and nodded, holding onto Easton as he eased himself down on the ship's deck, standing still for a moment to get a feel for the sway of the sea. "I think I'm okay, thank you." He said, giving a wavering smile to the captain as she passed. For the most part he held onto the railing around the deck, looking out onto the port town. He refused to cry again as he left what he had known his entire life. He didn't want to shed anymore tears for the place that had hurt him so many times. But he couldn't deny he was leaving behind some of the best parts of his life. His first and second family, the place he grew up, and his friends. The place where he had fallen in love. He took in a deep breath, savoring the briny salt if the sea. While he'd miss his home, he was eager to start a new life with Easton and in a new place.

Mel glanced up, gasping in a soft sob as he turned away from the two figures boarding the ship. "I-i know," he whispered softly, hesitantly leaning into the hand at his cheek. He glanced back at the docks for a few more moments, reigns clenched in his hands. He knew deep down nick was right. The more they stayed, the more chances he was putting all of them in danger. He flicked his gaze up, stiffening slightly when Nick touched his back but quickly relaxed. He chewed his lip in comtemplation before nodding. "Yes. We'll see them soon." He promised, tugging his horse back around and nudging him into a walk. He barely gave a passing glance to the guard from before, ignoring him completelt as he continued on. Let them have their suspicions now. Abrose and Easton were safe. If anyone had any questions, Mel didn't have any problem with answering them himself.