Death and Howls Part Eight: The Heat and a Couple of Surprises!

Groaning awake, a hangover had me grumbling to myself. How did those elves manage to get me so drunk? Massaging my forehead, a long yawn drew from my lips. Checking the clock, I had a couple of hours to get ready. Sliding off the couch, Luna and Felina were cuddling on our bed. Stumbling my way into the bathroom, I drew myself a bath. Time to get this disgusting alcohol scent off of me. Climbing into the tub, the magical soap dissolved any foul stench while cleaning my hair. Sinking under the water, a sense of serenity washed over me. Getting lost in the moment, a soft knock on the door had me popping back up. Wet strands of hair clung to my face, Luna poking her head in. My breath hitched at her beauty at the way her nightgown clung to her bump, pride glistening in my eyes. Something seemed off about her, her dark bags under her eyes seeming to be a new sight. Parting my lips to ask her if she was okay, a certain voice had a mixture of panic and frustration brewing in my eyes. Acer’s voice mixing with Felina’s had my smile falling next, my ceremonial uniform hanging off of her arm causing my temper to flare up. Shaking it off, today was supposed to be a celebration. Spinning over to me, her lips pressed against mine hungrily. Time slowed, our hearts beating to the same song. Releasing me from her spell, something woke up at her whisper. 

“I find men in uniforms especially attractive.” She whispered sensually, her lips brushing against the nape of my neck. Shooting out a quick okay, her lips brushed my cheek tenderly. Melting in her presence, a throat clearing stole the moment away. The sinking feeling of worry weighed me down, her tired smile hiding something. Hanging up the uniform on the way out, she offered him a spot of tea. Draining the tub, a soft smile lingered on my lips. Climbing out of the tub, I couldn’t help but to touch my face where her lips graced it. Must she always know what to say, I thought to myself as I dried myself off. Tugging on everything but the jacket, I slid my feet into the golden boots. Grimacing in disgust, these were the gaudiest things I have ever seen. Coming out to a rather anxious Acer, his suit looked even heavier. The scarlet suit seemed weighed down with golden leaves, a bit of sweat beading on his forehead. Fiddling with the golden buttons, he was fanning his face. Pecking Luna’s cheek on the way out, a blast of heat had me sweating profusely the moment I stepped out. Unbuttoning my shirt to spare it, the staff stared oddly in my direction.

“What with the damn heat!” I barked bitterly, Acer twiddling his thumb. “What aren’t you telling me? If you know what is good for you, you will spill it.” Tapping his chin, his attendants rushing over to get us ready saved him. Shoving us into a cool space, a ball of ice hovered at the top of the tower. Dragging us into a makeshift changing room, the simply dressed attendants got to twisting my hair into a ceremonial bun. Snapping their fingers, any evidence of sweat dissipated out of our outfits. Shooting him an expecting look, my brow cocked at his pensive silence.

“Every coronation is unnaturally hot until the crown is put on my head and you get sworn in as the commander. Consider it a punishment. My mother has the attendants growing ice lilies to keep the ceremony area cool.” He explained simply, a gentle smile lingering on his lips. “The thought that Rose is going to be my queen makes it all worth it.” My expression softened, a welcome silence coming over us. Neither of us needed to talk, his wet eyes meeting mine. Goddamn, he was a marshmallow on the inside. Letting them get us ready, a bell rang to announce the beginning of the ceremony. Rising to our feet, our suits looked flawless. Making our way to the ceremonial space, every breath left me. Thousands of ice lilies kept the space from becoming unbearably hot, the sea of people causing my anxiety to rise as high as his. Nudging me to move, a train pulling in gave me the courage I needed. Everyone from my world waved at me, Lottie and Boran beaming with pride. All were dressed in their best, the sea of silk gowns and ornate suits had me longing for home. Fighting back tears, a true commander didn't cry in front of the people. The music played in the background, every trumpet blare bringing me closer to the commander’s podium. Acer hovered in front of a golden leaf throne, his mother rising from hers. Plucking his crown from the plush scarlet pillow, she forced him to sit down. Pecking the top of his head, pride glittered in her eyes. Rose made her way to the front, her autumn leaf corset hugged her torso. The skirt flowed out over her hips, Fae cooing away in a golden leaf dress much like her mothers. Taking her place in the queen’s throne, sharp whispers passed through the crowd as Acer gazed upon her lovingly. Nothing existed in that moment but his family. His hands took hers, defiance showing in his crooked grin. Melda fussed with her navy floor length gown, her speech was sure to make the others shed tears. 

“My era ends and a new one begins.” She spoke gracefully, gripping his crown with tears in her eyes. “Time to pass the crown to the light that will guide us out of the darkness. Do you vow to serve your people with the highest honor?” Acer rose to his feet, respect mixing with fear. Silent tears stained his cheeks, his hands cupping his mother’s. 

“I vow to lead us into the light and to bring peace across the land!” He announced loud enough for the others to hear, his smile growing more natural. “Your best interest is in my hands. Together we will end the wars and have our children running free once more! I, Acer Troth, will be your king through thick and thin!” Cheers erupted through the crowd, his mother placing the crown onto his head. Moving aside to present him as king, an eerie silence came over the crowd the moment she placed her crown on Rose’s head. Helping her to her feet, she placed her arms around their waists. Obsidian sobbed in the front, a discreet chuckle tumbled from my lips. Glancing back at my parents and friends, all of them were in awe. Such ceremonies didn't happen there, the childlike wonder made sense.

“I present to you, King Acer Troth and Queen Rose Quartz!” She proclaimed with a bow in their direction, her fingers tickling Fae’s belly. “May our kingdom prosper!” All eyes followed her to the seat next to Obsidian, her hands resting on her lap. Clearing his throat, he marched up to me. Patting my shoulder a couple of times, my scythe rested in his palm. Fishing around his pocket, he plucked out a golden stone. Tossing it into the air a couple of times, he asked me to kneel. Doing as he asked, his finger danced along the handle of my scythe, a pocket opened up. Dropping the stone into the handle, Elven symbols glowed to life. Wonder rounded my eyes, the tattoo on my hand glowing to life. Even this had to be a damn spectacle to behold.

“By taking on these duties, you vow to serve my people and my people alone. The weight of the war is on your shoulders. Accept this weapon and guide the kingdom to victory! Do you accept your responsibilities and place in this kingdom, Darwin?” He yelled over the grumbling crowd, my brow twitching at the weight on my shoulders’ line. That could have worded better. Glancing back at my family and friends, Boran nodded his head once. Opening up my palms, Acer placed the scythe into my palms. A wave of golden energy bathed the kingdom, the dome doubling in size. What the hell was that?

“Rise now, my commander!” He ordered with a wink, the suit annoying me as I rose to my feet. Cold eyes glared at me, disbelief showing in the citizen’s eyes.

“I present Commander Darwin! Treat him with respect. It is because of him, no threats have come near our capital and the losses have been kept to a minimum. He will lead us out of this war!” He continued with an honored expression, my heart seeming seconds from beating out of my chest. Too ashamed to speak, I understood where they were coming from. A total stranger had been promoted, the other generals beginning to cheer and whistle vibrantly. Shouting out a couple of hell yeahs, my place was cemented into place. Respect burned in my eyes, all them winking in my direction. Christ, the winking game was strong around here. Leaving me to stew in my emotions, Acer walked to the front of the stage to deliver his first speech as king. Tuning most of it out, Luna waving to me in a lovely emerald empire gown had my cheeks burning a deep crimson. A strange look came over her eyes, a layer of sweat glistening on her skin. A splash of water hit her boots, the corner of her lips quivering. Acer noticed, a huge grin brightening his features. Finishing up his speech, the attendants began to guide the crowd into a roaring festival. Leaping over Acer, a tired Luna rubbed her large bump. Scooping her up, eyes snapped in my direction. Acer called for me to slow down, Lottie waving us onto the train. Laying her on the nearest bed, my jacket hit the floor. Rolling up my sleeve, it was my turn to become a father. Had Dragos arrived already! Acer let himself on with his mother, Lottie greeting her with a polite bow. Guiding her out of the room, Acer lingered by my side. Rose laid Fae into Melda’s arms, her comforting smile never leaving her face. When did I get such wonderful friends?

“No wonder it was so freaking warm, two balls of fire are coming into the world today.” Acer joked lightly, his jacket floating onto mine. Rolling up his sleeve, he bowed in Emmie’s direction while accepting what I needed to help her give birth. Rose grabbed her hand with a big smile, the two of them chatting between contractions. Dabbing a cool cloth on her forehead, Acer listened to me without complaints. Working through the next few hours, Luna kept flashing exhausted grins. Lottie joined in the efforts, her healing spells keeping everything in check. Silent tears stained my cheeks, my mother stepping up to help me. Checking her again, my face paled at a head meeting the tips of my gloved fingers. Nausea wracked my body, Acer and Lottie holding her feet up. Guiding her through the pushing, two wails had me standing numbly in a messy space. Running over to the nearest trash can, vomit flew up my throat. Lottie rubbed my back as Acer and Boran cleaned up the twins. Fighting through another bout, relief washed over me at the twins cooing away in Luna’s arms. Tossing my gloves into the can, a mess of blood stained the pristine white I had been wearing. Shit, I fucked up. Turning towards Acer to apologize, his hand covered my mouth. What did he have to say now?

“Don’t you dare apologize.” He assured me with a comforting smile, his eyes flitting between the twins and me. “Life is more important than a uniform. I am going to have a more comfortable one made. You know, one that suits your style.” Lowering his hand, no words could come to my lips. Stumbling over to Luna, tears welled up in my eyes once more. Two silver haired twin boys stared up at me with golden eyes, their silver tufts dancing in the warm breeze. Leaning down to kiss her, her hand cupped my face. 

“I was thinking about the names Doriel and Loreas in honor of your Elvish heritage.” She gushed with a buzz about her, my tears splashing onto her face. “We did it. Look at our family. Do you want to hold them?” Scooping them up, my heart skipped a beat at the healthy boys in my arms. My sons gazed lovingly in my direction, their pink lips curling into the cutest smiles. Acer popped up next to me, Lottie appearing on my other side. Burying us in a bear hug, Acer ran over to his mother’s side. Her warmth was what I missed the most.

“We have to address the people but I hope to see you tomorrow morning.” He commented serenely, his eyes lighting up with adventure. “I guess we are fathers together now. Congratulations!” Disappearing with his family, Avy and Soma made their way over to the twins. Passing one to Lottie and one to Soma, exuberant smiles danced across their lips. Plopping onto the bed next to Luna, the grandparents needed some time with the newest additions. Felina leapt into Boran’s arms, her emerald dress glittering in the light of the train. How could I forget about her in all of this madness? I was already the father of the year, I thought bitterly to myself. Playing with her in his fancy black suit, he winked in my direction. Relief washed the guilt away, his comforting whisper easing me further. Laying down next to Luna, she pulled my head onto her chest.

“I don’t know if I say it enough but I love you with all of my heart.” I wept happily, her fingers playing with my hair. Kissing the top of my head, this was a moment I never wanted to end. Cuddling with her until the train rattled in protest, Luna swung her feet over the edge of the bed. Draping her arm over my shoulder, I made my way over to our parents. Magic had announced that it was time to go.

“Would you like to take them for a visit once a month?” I offered earnestly, silent tears staining their cheeks as they laid the twins into my arms. Burying us in a big hug, the other important people in my life joined in. The train whistled, everyone backing up. Our parents guided us to the train door, all of us lingering with hesitation. A layer of sadness tainted the beautiful moment.

“I would love that. Don't be a stranger and call once a day. We all want to see those babies!” Lottie chirped cheerfully, Boran ruffling the top of my head. “We have to go before the train breaks. Congratulations, my son.” Fighting back tears, dirt crunched as we hopped off. Luna blew her parents one last kiss, Boran tossing me my scythe. Waving goodbye until we couldn’t see them anymore, uncontrollable sobs wracked my body. Hating that they had to go, I sank to my knees. Seeing everyone dosed me with a bit of homesick desires, Luna came down to my level. Wiping away my tears, the mixed emotions had me feeling like a small child. 

“I know it stings but we have a life here. I have friends and now a family. Most importantly, you are my mate. Together we can do anything. How about we go home and get a bit of rest?” She suggested while rubbing her thumb along my cheek, a single nod resulting in us walking back to our cabin. Felina bounced behind us, her eyes lighting up at the basket sitting next to two cribs. Luna excused herself to feed the boys before taking a bath, my body feeling incredibly heavy. The long day wore on me, a kick of my feet resulting in those blasted boots rolling across the floor. Collapsing onto the bed, a knock had me huffing. Felina bounced up to the door, her tail wagging at a casually dressed Acer coming in with a couple of beers. Happy to see him, his presence was becoming less annoying each time. The early wake up calls weren't getting so bad either. It was best not to inform him of such a thought.

“Uncle Acer!” Felina shouted, her hands clasping together. Passing me one of the glass bottles, his comfy blouse and wool pants had jealousy flashing in my eyes. Luna came out, her real smile brightening her features. Laying the slumbering boys into my arms, she mumbled something about taking a bath. Setting my beer clumsily onto the nightstand, Acer did the same with the nearest table. His fingers drummed on his lap, Felina showing signs of falling asleep. Her eyelids fluttered a couple of times, a long yawn exposing her adorable fangs.

“Look at us. We are fathers and commanders in our own senses.” He chuckled blithely, staring out at the rising sun. “I can't help but think that none of this would have happened without you. Felina, you helped out as well.” Hopping up next to us, her purrs became snores. Wonder brightened his eyes at her head falling onto his lap, a quiet smile lingering on his lips. Just like that, he was considered a part of her family. Happy to see her blending in so well, the memories of Lottie raising me caused a couple of silent tears to dance down my cheeks.

“Should I call you Acer or your majesty in front of everyone?” I inquired with a nudge of my shoulder. “How were your soul sucking duties today?” Both of us broke out in fits of laughter, our exhaustion eating at us. Lighting up at my honest interest, his mouth never stopped moving. Basking in the warmth of the serene moment, luck just might be in our cards.