It was around three o’clock in the afternoon when Kai and Allara walked back to the B&B. After their emotionally exhausting talk they had just relaxed in each other’s company while enjoying the day.

  After hearing Kai’s loud and hilarious tummy growls one too many times, Allara had decided it was time for a late lunch. The two of them entered through the back door where they found Shae and Marta once again in the dining room. Only this time they were serving snacks to a large rabble of dwarves and gnomes. “Is it just me or are they dressed like tourists?” Kai side spoke to the sorceress while trying not to laugh at the site. Allara simply eyed the little men in humour.

  Shae came over to them looking a bit harried. Marta on the hand was skipping around the place as if she’d had a few too many energy drinks. Kai eyed her friend a bit bewildered. Shae just shook her head and collapsed in a chair beside the two. “Apparently a vain of precious metals was found in some caves in the the expanded land. These guys are all here for some sort of auction that Sebastian I’d holding!” She said exasperated. “Sebastian is the dwarf I met my first day here. Right?” Kai clarified. Shae nodded as she snatched up her hyperactive mate as she passed by and plopped her on her lap. Marta squeaked at the act. Though when she realised it was her mate she relaxed and nuzzled into her neck. Her snakes doing the same. Shae merely breathed her in and refused to let her go.

  Hanna then came out of the kitchen with some plates of food, having seen Kai and Allara’s return. “Here you go ladies!This group is about to finally leave so you should have the dining room to yourselves soon!” Shae sighed in relief. “Thank the Stars!” She groaned. Hanna laughed. Kai looked up at the Cobalt with a grin. Maybe you should work for Shae full time! You seem to know your way around a kitchen!” Hanna laughed again. “ Believe or not I actually did a stint as a waitress and line cook in the human world! You can learn life skills anywhere it seems!” Hanna went back to the kitchen as the women ate. Marta fed Shae as they talked. Kai thought it was cute. “So what do you ladies want to do for the rest of the day!?” Marta asked. Kai looked at Allara who seemed amused by the Gorgon and just shrugged. Kai thought for a bit. “How about we show Allara around and then we check out some of the new land?”

  Rina’s voice answered from behind them. “Now that’s an idea!” She had just entered the B&B, Selene at her side. Kai noticed that they were holding hands and felt joy for her friend. Marta cheered and everyone ate before leaving.

  Rina went and borrowed the Jeep-truck from last night and they all piled in. Their first stop was the park where they met up with quite a few of the Fae who had joined them in their mission. Kai checked in on The wood elf that had been injured too since she was currently sitting in the cafe across from the park. Orlan was at his forge creating new mining tools for the dwarves and gnomes. He seemed content and was happy to talk.

  Kai couldn’t help but marvel at the people of this town. They were such a friendly bunch and ever since they had found out about her past it was as if they had fully accepted her as one of them. She didn’t know how to handle so much positive emotions.

  Rina, who had been, as usual paying attention to her friends cues, this time, signalled Allara discreetly towards her friend. Understanding Allara stuck close to the tall woman and when she sensed her withdrawal, gently guided her with a gentle nudge to the side. Grasping her larger hand with her own, Allara waited till Kai looked down at her. Kai had leaned her head back with eyes closed. Trying to stop the tears from falling. When she had gained enough control she tilted her head down to the sorceress. “How did you know?” She asked quietly. Allara replied honestly. “Rina” was her simple answer. Kai just nodded and leaned her head down to touch foreheads. There was something about this position of being so close but separate that seemed to ground Kai. She took in a deep breath. “Thanks” she whispered. Allara smiled softly back up at her. “Anytime”.

  They returned to their friends, the group of Fae none the wiser. Having shown Allara and Selene most of the Main Town area, it was now time for them all to experience the new expanded portion of Tennga for the first time. They all clambered back into the Jeep-Truck and headed out down the Main thoroughfare until they came to the train tracks. Crossing them the arrives at the first new settlement. It seemed to be a gas station/ barbecue joint. It reminded Kai of some of the places she’d seen in the human world. It being right beside, what she assumed would be the main road, was a very good business decision. Though the Bar-B-Q was still being built the station was in fact up and running. They pulled over to check it out. The owner was a Hobgoblin by the name of Ralph. He seemed alright. A bit brusque, but most Unseelie were and when it was Kai’s turn to introduce herself his whole demeanour changed. Turns out most Hobgoblins were related in some way or another and Kai’s dealings with Drix had apparently put her in good standing! So the group ended up leaving the station with a full tank of gas and some snacks, all free of charge! Marta definitely appreciate that! Shae shook her head at her little mate, wondering exactly where all the food she seemed to consume went! That black hole her little mate had for a stomach was a mystery!

  The second place they found was a large field of grass that went on for what looked like a couple miles. And on it a herd of centaurs galloped. They didn’t leave the vehicle. This time just watching. “I’ve heard there are to be quite a few four footed Fae besides the centaurs that will be joining us.” Said Rina as they waved to some young foals and fillies.

  Allara looked curious. “Oh?” Rina nodded. “There is chatter about a herd of Unicorns!” Allara’s eyebrows went up. “Oh wow! That would would be quite the feat!” Marta, who was again sitting in Shae lap exclaimed in awe “Really! Real unicorns! I heard they never associated with other Fae!” Rina shrugged. “That is what I have been hearing.” Marta practically vibrates in Shae’s lap. The Moon sister chuckled and wrapped her arms around the Gorgon. “Calm yourself love.”

  The others laughed at Marta’s child like exuberance.

  They next drove off the main road and onto a dirt one. Following it they looked for signs. As trees became thicker and the foliage more full they came across other Fae that seemed to be exploring too. Eventually they had to leave the vehicle and go it on foot.

  The came across many of the tall tree like beings called dryads and even some of their smaller flower cousins. They met a group of gnomes that had claimed a small rocky area as well as a group of tree Nymphs. Who all gravitated towards Kai without exception. The woman had to literally peal naked women of the their poor friend. All the while Rina cackled at the hilarity of it! “I swear Kai it’s like you’re made of aphrodisiac or something!!” Marta had yelled as they had sped walked out of that particular grove. Allara had found herself agreeing with the Gorgon and wanting to murder this naked nymphs! Seeing them touch Kai and splay themselves all over the taller woman had brought out her jealousy. Fortunately the others hadn’t noticed. Or so she thought, but Rina had definitely noticed. She still couldn’t tell if the two were mates though! She’d never had soo much trouble reading a set of bonds! She sighed silently as she continued to observe the interactions between the two. Only time would tell she supposed.

  The next location turned out to be an Elf Hamlet. Which consisted of multiple tree houses connected by sturdy rope bridges and zip lines. Kai had never seen this before, but the others got to see her inner child take over. Before they knew it they were watching a bunch of you Elflings chase their tall friend through the tree tops like a bunch of spider monkeys. They also learned that Kai had quite the knack for climbing! Marta couldn’t help but make the comment on the fact that Kai looked like an Amazon.

  Kai loved the feeling of flying through the trees and the Elflings following her got to learn a whole lot of new ways to traverse their homes. Allara had to hold herself back from crying out every time she saw Kai jump from one height to the next. She wasn’t sure how much more of this her nerves could take.

  As Kai was playing tag with the younglings she began to sense something off. Looking around she saw nothing. Then as she was passing over her friend down below she felt it again. She looked down and zeroed in on Allara. The sorceress seemed to be clutching herself around the middle and her eyes never left Kai’s person. That was when Kai realised she was feeling Allara’s unease. With that Kai bowed out of the game and landed directly in front of the sorceress. She had her in her arms instantly. “Shhh… Breath Allara. That’s it just Breath. I’m here. I’m safe. Just feel me here. It’s alright.” Kai whispered her words up against Allara’s ear. Her strong arms wrapped around the smaller woman held her against her chest. She pressed one hand to the back of Allara’s neck holding her securely.

  Rina sighed in relief. She had thought she would have to step in when she had felt the other woman’s anxiety. But it seemed Kai was perfectly up to the task. Selene leaned in to her and whispered in her ear. “You and Kai are soo kind” “I love that about you.” Rina felt herself blush.

  Earlier that day they had been hold up in Rina’s rooms discussing their relationship and Selene had admitted to being a virgin. Having been imprisoned for so long and during a time when staying pure for one’s mate was thing to do. Rina had felt so honoured and told Selene that they would go at her pace. She then admitting to her past and how she had been mated once before. They had talked for hours getting to know each other and about each of their dreams for the future their fears, likes and dislikes. It had been a very enjoyable few hours. Selene was the quiet presence Rina had always needed and Rina being opposite in temperament to her mate was the exactly what the Vampiress needed.

  Allara couldn’t believe herself. She had made a scene. She felt embarrassed and didn’t know how to fix it. But Kai didn’t seem to mind. In fact she seemed to like that Allara cared? Allara lifted her head from where she had it pressed to Kai’s chest, just over her heart. She looked up and realised Kai was staring down at her with her big brown eyes. No judgement. Just calm unfettered caring.

  My Stars! I could fall in love her!

  The thought came unbidden to her mind and she squashed it down instantly. Get ahold of yourself woman! She thought.

  Their next destination and last one for the day turned out to be a village of small houses. It was where the dwarves had made their homes. And it was only a 10 minute walk from the mines. There they were greeted by Sebastian, who seemed to be in charge of the whole mining operation. The women stayed for a short while then headed back to where they had left their vehicle. The sun was on its way down and they didn’t want to get lost on the way back.

  Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

  Once back in the Main town they drove to the B&B and all headed inside, where a warm dinner was waiting for them. Complements of Hanna. “Seriously, maybe you should hire her on!” Said Kai as as she enjoyed the roast and potatoes. The others agreed as they too enjoyed their meals. Once done with dinner, they sat around the table sipping tea and chatting. Hanna came out of the kitchen with her purse and wished them Goodnight. Before going though she relayed a message from the Mayor, that he wanted to see them tomorrow after breakfast. After Hanna left they all decided they to needed sleep and parted ways. Shae carried her drowsy mate to their room. Marta mumbling a Goodnight as they left. The others chuckled at the short woman. They all left the dining room and ascended the stairs together. Wishing each other goodnight as Rina and Selene left for Rina’s room. Kai walked Allara to hers and wished her a good night. But as she turned to go to her own rooms she felt a hand grasp her sleeve. She turned back and had to catch herself as Allara wrapped her in a hug. Kai held her gently. Not sure what was wrong. “Please,” she heard the sorceress say. “Please let me sleep with you again?” Kai’s eyes widened. Then she squeezed Allara closer. “Sure” she said simply. Allara breathed out in relief. Then Kai took her hand and led her to her room. Upon entering Kai walked to the closet and grabbed one of the only large shirts she had. And handed it to Allara.then she grabbed her sleeping pants. “You can change in the bathroom if you want she said. Allara nodded and closed the door behind her. She peeled off the dress she wore aaa well as her bra. She would never miss those awful corsets that women seemed to love from back in the day. The bra was a genius human invention. But it was always best to not sleep in one. Keeping on her panties she slipped on Kai’s shirt only for it to fall practically to her knees! She loved it! She held the collar to her knows and inhaled deeply. It smelled like Kai! She couldn’t describe the scent but it was all Kai. There was no one she knew that smelled like her. It was a very nice smell. Which made her wonder if Kai was indeed made of aphrodisiac? Damn Marta and her strange ideas!

  Allara quietly left the bathroom and came upon Kai in her pyjamas bottoms and another sports bra. Her upper body on display again. Allara felt herself go hot.

  Kai had dressed quickly once Allara had entered the bathroom. She was nervous. Which didn’t make sense since she’d pretty much done the same thing with Rina the other night. She suspected it was different because, with Rina she had a sisterly like bond, but with Allara it was a different matter entirely. She was physically, mentally, and emotionally attracted to the Dark Sorceress and she didn’t know how to deal with that. She knew she was a bit emotionally stunted. Though one would have to be blind, deaf and dumb not to be attracted to the woman!

  When she turned at the sound of the bathroom door, she nearly fainted at the sight before her. Lady Allara, Dark Sorceress was standing there, in nothing but Kai’s t-shirt as covering, her red hair pulled up in a messy bun.

  Adorable!!

  Allara looked so small in Kai’s shirt, but she made it look good! Kai felt her heart pound and her skin heat up. She had never been so grateful for her tanned skin than she was now!

  To hide the effect that Allara had on her Kai quickly turned the lights out and climbed into bed. Allara hesitated but did the same and climbed in under the sheets on the other side. She rolled over so she faced away from the taller woman. It felt awkward but she didn’t want to crowd Kai in her own bed.

  Kai could feel the tension in the room. She didn’t like it. She especially didn’t like the tension coming off of the sorceress. So with a deep breath she took a risk.

  Kai reached out and snagged the woman around her waist and dragged her across the bed to her side. She wrapped her arms around her and pulled her close.

  Allara nearly let out a squeal of shock when Kai’s strong hands had pulled her across the bed and into her arms. Before she could even protest she was already wrapped securely in her arms. Then Kai spoke right up against her ear. “Let me hold you?” She asked. It’s was framed as a question but it felt like a gentle command. And for the life of her she couldn’t bring herself to deny her.

  Kai loved the feel of the Sorceress in her arms. It felt tight. Her smell was intoxicating and her body pressed against hers was heaven.

  Allara found herself relaxing her muscles and her mind shutting down. She felt so comfortable and within minutes she was fast asleep. Kai too felt comfortable and just before she fell asleep she pulled the red head flush against her, curling around her as if to cocoon her entirely.

  The Next Morning

  Kai woke first. She had shifted in her sleep, now lying on her back. Allara was still in her arms, nestled against her, her face pressed to Kai’s collarbone. Warm breaths fluttered against her skin, slow and steady.

  That wasn’t the only thing Kai noticed.

  Allara’s soft curves molded into her side, her very full breasts pressing against Kai with every breath. One of her legs had been thrown over Kai’s in the night, the borrowed shirt she wore riding up just enough to reveal smooth, peach-toned skin.

  And then there was Kai’s hand.

  Somehow, in her sleep, she had found purchase on the sorceress’ very round, very firm, lace-clad backside. Her fingers had curled beneath the curve where thigh met hip, pressing dangerously close to the sorceress’ center.

  Kai froze.

  She didn’t dare move. She didn’t even breathe.

  Her body, however, reacted all on its own.

  Allara stirred. The soft, steady heartbeat beneath her ear had shifted into something fast and erratic. She knew immediately where she was—who she was tangled up with. It took only a second longer to realize exactly how tangled they were.

  Kai had her in a firm, warm grip, holding her close.

  Allara inhaled deeply in an effort to center herself. The small movement did not go unnoticed.

  Kai felt it. And when Allara looked up, Kai met her gaze—saw the flicker of emotion in those jade-green eyes.

  Clearing her throat, Kai opened her mouth, about to attempt an explanation, but before she could get a word out, Allara pressed a single finger to her lips. “I know,” she whispered. Relief washed through Kai, and she exhaled, lips curving into a tentative smile beneath the sorceress’ touch.

  Allara smiled back, then slowly leaned up, peering down at her.

  “Though one has to wonder…” she mused, brow arching, “…why you haven’t let go yet?”

  Kai gave her an innocent look—too innocent.

  “Maybe I just like having a handle on things.” Allara’s lips curved. Her voice dropped to something velvety. “Oh, darling. No one has ever had a handle on me.” Kai’s pulse jumped. Then, unable to resist, she gave Allara’s backside a slow, deliberate squeeze. “Until now, you mean?” For a moment, Allara simply stared at her, wide-eyed. A flush crept up her neck, dusting her cheeks. Then her expression darkened with promise.

  Kai barely had time to laugh before Allara launched at her with a pillow, and the next thing she knew, she was dodging a barrage of attacks as the sorceress chased her out of bed, cursing in between breathless laughter.

  By the time they made it downstairs, Kai was still shaking stray feathers from her hair.

  Rina and Selene exchanged looks as their friend plopped into a seat at the dining table, the remnants of her morning battle still clinging to her. Kai was grinning. And every time she glanced at Allara—who sat primly in her long blue robes, the very image of poise—her grin widened.

  Kai caught their expressions.

  “Crazy red squirrel in my rooms,” she deadpanned.

  The timing was impeccable.

  They looked over just as Allara sent Kai a pointed, unamused glare.

  Rina snorted into her tea.

  Shae and Marta arrived next. Shae barely spared Kai a glance—her usual pre-coffee state of indifference fully in place. Marta, however, took one look at her and smirked. “New look?” she teased.

  Kai tilted her head, considering. “You like? I hear it’s all the rage.”

  Allara rolled her eyes. Marta played along. “Mm… could use something extra. Maybe some braids? A few beads?”

  Kai chuckled. “I’ll get right on that.”

  “You will do no such thing,” Allara interjected, flicking a hand in Kai’s direction. A small gust of wind swept through the room, knocking Kai clean out of her chair.

  She popped back up an instant later, ruffling her hair—which was now a complete mess, though notably feather-free.

  The table erupted in laughter.

  Kai, grinning, slid back into her seat and turned to Allara, brown eyes going deliberately wide and imploring. Allara sighed, feigning exasperation. “Fine. You’re forgiven.” Kai’s triumphant smile was downright adorable. And despite herself, Allara found herself smiling back.

  After breakfast, the group made their way toward the town hall, where Elarin was already waiting.

  “Ah, ladies! Good morning! I trust you rested well?” They greeted him in turn, affirming that they had. “I actually have something I wanted to show you,” Elarin said, his excitement evident. “Come along—this won’t take long.”

  Curious, they followed him down the sidewalk, passing through the residential district. Kai didn’t recognize the path, and Shae explained that this was where most of the townsfolk lived.

  Elarin led them a bit farther until they reached the outskirts of town—near Hanna’s house, in fact.

  Before them stood an empty building. An old warehouse, by the looks of it.

  A crowd had gathered outside. Practically the entire town was there, standing with bright smiles and barely contained excitement.

  Elarin stepped forward, then turned to face them.

  Kai glanced at Rina and Shae, perplexed. Marta shifted beside her, suddenly nervous. “Shae?” she asked quietly. Shae smiled down at her, pressing a kiss to her temple before stepping forward to stand beside Rina. They faced Marta and Kai together.

  Then Rina spoke.

  “Kai. Marta.”

  She paused, her expression warm.

  “We didn’t know this town was missing something—until we met you. You’ve brought a new sense of wonder into our lives. And we wanted you to know that we all consider you family. ”Marta’s breath caught. Rina turned to Shae, who gave a small nod before signaling to the crowd. The Fae parted, revealing the large double doors of the warehouse.

  There, bold and unmistakable, was the ADL insignia—the rearing serpent and flowing river.

  Marta’s eyes filled with tears.

  Kai stood utterly still. Marta turned to her, searching her face.

  Kai felt something crack inside her. She had spent years moving, never settling, always keeping herself at a distance. Now, as she stood before this place—before these people—she felt that distance closing.

  Shae moved as if to step forward, but Rina stopped her with a gentle hand. Instead, Rina approached Kai, her voice soft. “You’ve been moving for a long time,” she said. “We just wanted you to know that you have a home here. You have friends. Family. We all love you, Kai—we just want to see you happy.”

  Allara had been silent, watching.

  Now, she stepped forward, gently cupping Kai’s face, pressing their foreheads together. Kai inhaled. The storm within her settled.

  “It doesn’t sound so bad, does it?” Allara murmured. “Having a place to call home?” Kai let out a slow breath, looking into those jade eyes. “No it doesn’t “ she murmured back, then turned to the waiting crowd.

  Her lips curved into the smallest, quietest smile.“Thank you,” she said, voice thick with emotion.

  Then, led by none other than little Toby, the crowd lifted their voices as one—

  “WELCOME HOME!”

  End of Book 1