After twenty attempts at waking up, I was finally successful on number twenty-one.

I swear to Starlight. Give your spirit a chance and she’ll makes sure to enjoy every second of freedom. Fuck, I’m exhausted.

“Well, you did give her permission,” Midnight commented, yawning in my mind.

I shook my head against the pillow, wondering how I hadn’t noticed her presence. It must have been due to my exhaustion.

I gave her permission to shift. I didn’t give her permission to shift and have a sex marathon. Ah, my body aches in all the wrong places. It didn’t hurt like this when Ryder and I fucked.

“Ryder was gentle on you. Stryker and Rose...they don’t give off the whole, “let’s take things slow” vibe. I saw it coming.”

I could imagine her shrug her shoulders, her toneless voice held not even an ounce of sympathy. I groaned into my pillow. I feel like Rose is rubbing off on you.

“Maybe...but I am a dark fairy. Aren’t we supposed to be very blunt? That’s what Winterlya said.”

I seriously needed to do some research on dark fairies, especially now that one of my spirits was one. It would help me understand Midnight more.

I turned my head to the side; my eyes opened to see the sleeping shifter next to me – Ryder’s chest rose and fell as he slept peacefully.

He looked so relaxed, the best I’d seen him since my first days home after waking up from a coma.

“We should make him breakfast,” Midnight suggested.

I guess she did have a point. I wondered if the maids cooked for him or if he did his own thing. I glanced at the watch on the nightstand on Ryder’s side, 5:45 AM displayed in a purple light.

He’ll probably wake up soon. Hope no one minds me raiding the kitchen. I’m glad I brought some chocolate milk.

“Kai’s gonna be upset when he finds out you took all the chocolate milk with you,” Midnight acknowledged.

I smiled, sitting up as my hand went through my messy locks. What the hell? I looked over my body at all of the love bites on my chest and legs. I knew I had to shower and do some major cover up to look presentable and not like I had a wild night of sex.

“But, you did.”

Again, Midnight’s voice echoed through my mind. Uh, first of all that wasn’t me – technically it was Rose. And second of all, it doesn’t mean that I should walk around with the marks showing all over my body. I don’t think that’ll be the best first impression when I meet Ryder’s parents. Now go away.

I was glad this side of the castle was unoccupied. Didn’t need to prove Brittany’s loud accusations were right.

I noticed movement at the end of the bed, a ball of fabric moved under the sheet near my legs. I pulled at my side of the blanket, three white to grey tails poked out.

“Nightmare?”

Her tails shot up before she scurried under the blanket, turning around; her head popped out before she glanced at me.

“MEW!” she called out.

I glanced back at Ryder who stirred, turning to his side before falling back asleep. I pressed my finger to my lips, signalling Nighty to be quiet. “Let him sleep. You know he doesn’t sleep for long,” I urged, leaning over and kissing him once on the cheek before taking my time to kiss him on his neck with every intention of leaving a visible love bite.

He moaned, stirring again but relaxing into the sheets below us, his breathing evened out as I pulled back. With that, everyone knows he’s mine. I claimed him first.

I proceeded to get cleaned up, taking a long shower before using some of the makeup I borrowed from Eli to cover the discoloured red and purple marks scattered across my chest and apparently, my neck also. I only covered the areas that would be visible from my outfit.

I slipped into some simple, black tights and a maroon t-shirt with the words Demon Bait plastered in thick, white lettering. I seriously needed to find out where Elias got all these shirts from.

I straightened my hair, tying it up in a neat bun before applying my makeup – aiming for a more natural look, but not hesitating to add a dash of blush to my cheeks and topping the look off with bright, red lipstick which complimented my turquoise eyes. Thank you, Eli, for the makeup lessons.

I found the bling, stud earrings she had created. I swear fairy shifters had some crafty hands. Her ability to create such majestic looking jewellery would be any girls dream to carry such a skill.

I put the earrings in; my eyes landed on the friendship bracelet on my wrist. I was glad we’d worked things out. Whatever happened with our future relationship was up to the Starlight gods.

I made my way over to the kitchen Ryder had explained was their private one; only used by him, family and important guests.

I’d brought the carton of chocolate milk from the mini-fridge in his room, placing it in the large double door fridge before me. My eyes scanned the contents of the fridge, narrowing down the breakfast options in my head. I had more than enough to make a large breakfast.

After yesterday’s events, I was famished, and I could imagine Ryder being just as hungry. I noticed the hooks holding a few aprons on the wall next to the fridge. The variety of colours made me smile at the fabric as I noticed the small embroidery on them – Ryder, Elias, Marcus, Daniel, Kai, Mom.

I could picture my knights in their younger cycles, crowding the spacious kitchen as they made a horrendous mess.

I bet Marcus would be laughing his head off while Ryder and Daniel argued about something, Elias quietly reading a recipe book as Ryder’s mom explained to him the steps. Kai would probably be in the corner, drawing the scene out.

I giggled to myself before looking through the second row of adult aprons, easily locating Ryder’s – the only purple apron in the adult set.

I strapped it on and got to work. It was still early, but I decided to start with baking cookies, muffins and brownies, and make breakfast later on. I told Nightmare to check on Ryder frequently to see if he was still in deep sleep or beginning to wake. He’d probably shower before coming out to look for me, so I wasn’t too concerned. Breakfast wouldn’t take long.

I began playing music on my phone, bringing the device along for the trip just in case any of the others needed us and for the sake of silencing Eli’s constant nagging.

She wouldn’t allow us to leave unless we brought our phones, emphasizing their purpose of being with us at all times, even in the washroom. I thought it was ridiculous, but to save the lives of any furniture we agreed.

In two hours, I’d made multiple batches of muffins; blueberry, carrot, banana and strawberry.

I laid out the trays on the large black countertop, allowing them to cool as I placed the chocolate ones in the first oven, the second one holding the egg soufflés.

Nightmare came striding in; mewing repetitively to inform me Ryder was awake. I decided to start breakfast, making pancakes and boiling a bunch of eggs. Bacon and sausage wouldn’t take long, so I wasn’t worried about those.

I was so caught up staring at the muffins rise that I didn’t realize I wasn’t alone.

“What did my son do to score a woman who knows how to cook and put other demon shifters in their place regardless of status?”

I jumped up, turning in the direction of the gentle voice. My eyes widened at the sight of Ryder’s Mom, the Queen of Minato stood in a long, jeweled robe, her long, dark purple hair tied up into a ponytail. The hairstyle made her look young, bringing out her Tyrian eyes; the exact replica of her son.

I was ready to answer when I realized she was royalty, quickly bowing before her.

“Morning, your Majesty.” I greeted.

She laughed, the rich, light tone soared through the air, making me jump before I raised my head slightly to watch her hand press against her mouth to muffle her laughter.

“In all my Starlight’s, it’s refreshing to meet the Daughter of Arthur and Catherine, alive and safe. Rosalina, or should I say Makoto, no need to bow. We are both royals. Though, I’m very pleased with your manners and respect. It makes me wonder about your upbringing when you weren’t raised within the palace walls. And good morning,” she explained before returning my greetings, making her way to the counter and pulling out a black stool, sitting down.

I rose checking one last time on the muffins, setting a timer, and made my way to the counter. I pulled out the opposite stool, sitting to face her. Nightmare jumped onto the counter, running towards the Queen who smiled, her eyes twinkled with appreciation.

“Nightmare, it’s an honour as always. I see you found the Princess. I’m glad you’re reunited after all these cycles,” she whispered.

Nighty purred as she rubbed her head against her hand before sitting; her tail curled around her body.

“You know Nightmare? As in um...” I began but trailed off, not wanting to reveal her true identity for the risk of my assumptions being false.

She gave me a light smile before nodding.

“A few of us Royals know about Nightmare and a few other gods familiar forms. Some gods change after many cycles, but Nightmare and three other gods keep the same appearance. I’m not surprised to see her by your side. When you were younger we all knew if we saw Nightmare, you were not far behind, even when you could only crawl,” she confessed as she reminisced on the past, such memories lost to me. She continued.

“I don’t want to linger on what you went through during your cycles at that forsaken place, but I wanted you to know, I’m grateful to see you are well and have recovered from the incident in Realm One.”

I stared back at her, shocked at how caring this woman before me was.

“But...you don’t know me? You knew Rosalina, but I’m different. How can you be happy that I’m well?” I asked, confused.

She shook her head, holding back another laugh before her expression softened as she rested her elbows on the table; her face rested in her hands as she stared at the ceiling.

“When Ryder was nine, we decided to bring him to Heila as a birthday present. He’d been asking for rotations and we finally decided it would be a good chance for him to see other realms. We’d come to visit your Father and Mother, having a little meeting in the living room when a sleepwalking, brown haired girl, in a poofy pink dress waddled into the room, Nightmare by your side as you carried a plastic cup of milk. The look on Ryder’s face when he stared at you was priceless. You stared at him before sitting in the corner with your milk. He sat right next to you until you woke up a few minutes later. Then the shenanigans began.”

I blushed, cursing my younger sleepwalking ways. I wasn’t surprised with the milk drinking, but it still sounded embarrassing.

“Shenanigans?” I questioned.

“Oh yes. The moment you two started talking, you just connected. Playing from that moment until the both of you could barely keep your eyes open. We couldn’t separate you two till you were both knocked out, and by the morning, you’d somehow managed to sleepwalk to the other side of the castle and into his bed. I’d never seen Arthur’s face so red before. He was so embarrassed, but I thought it was hilarious. His little ninja princess, able to sneak across the castle filled with guards. Priceless.” She chuckled at the memories, rubbing at her eyes before sitting up; her hands relaxed on the counter.

“I’m sure I was a troublemaker,” I commented.

“Indeed, you were. Your demon and angel spirit especially. It was no wonder why Stryker liked Rose so quickly. They both gave the nannies such trouble. You’re lucky you were royal children, or your mother and I would have had to spend a fortune to have a skilled enough sitter for the both of you.” She took a deep breath before her expression looked sad.

“Then the day came when you were stolen on your sixth birthday. I’d never seen such sadness in my son’s eyes till that day. He spent two weeks looking for the best gift to give you and there he stood, frozen in place with the little-wrapped box in his hand. When he finally got over the shock, it was Stryker’s turn to anguish over the fact Rose was gone. I guess you could say I was thankful to the Starlight Gods for uniting him with the other boys. I don’t think I could have handled seeing him like that for much longer. I didn’t like the fact they were called at such a young age to take on such an important mission, but it was what Ryder and the other boys needed. Now that you’ve returned and are well, I’ve seen the difference in him. Especially, after you woke up,” she finished.

I blinked, unable to stop a tear from rolling down my cheek. He loved me so deeply back then, too?

She stood up, walked around to my side, before standing at my side. I turned to face her before her hands held my face; her thumb rubbed away the tear that escaped my watery eyes.

“My son has adored you from the moment his eyes gazed upon you that fateful day. I’ve seen the way he looks at you and know exactly when something is bothering him that involves you. Even after all these cycles apart, your chemistry still holds in both you and Rose. You could only imagine how amusing it was to see your little display yesterday in the hall. I’ve never seen my maids so afraid since Ryder burned half the castle down when he was ten,” she admitted.

He burned the castle? I’d have to ask him about that.

“But...why is your husband trying to find a partner for him?” I whispered.

“I think it’s his way of distracting him...between you and me, I think he believes if Ryder finds another partner to love he’d move on and focus on home. They’re not as close as they used to be,” she whispered, frowning.

“I don’t think he’d like me,” I mumbled, wondering how the King of Minato looked. From all the information I’d gathered, he seemed like a strict man who wouldn’t tolerate certain behavior.

“Hah. My big, old, teddy bear is nothing to fear. He’s simply rough around the edges, but he has a big heart. I know it’s hard to see at first glance compared to your Father, but trust me, he cares about his son’s happiness and he’d be a fool to ignore the change in Ryder since you were rescued and awakened,” she admitted, smiling down at me before her arms pulled me into a hug.

I froze, shocked at her sudden gesture.

“Regardless of my husband’s future attempts to try and intimidate you, realize that I support your relationship with my son. Besides, Ryder’s too serious all the time. I wish he took more of my playful side. He’s going to get wrinkles if he keeps constantly having such a serious face,” she joked, but tightened her embrace.

I hugged her back, allowing my tears to fall. “Thank you for raising such a wonderful man,” I whispered.

“Thank you, Makoto for loving everything about my boy. I know he isn’t perfect and is dealing with his own demons, but his intentions are pure, and he’d do anything to make you happy.” She pulled away, a tear rolled down her cheek.

“It’s not even seven in the morning and I’ve made my boyfriend’s mother cry. The horror.” I giggled.

“You mean future mother-in-law, I hope.” She winked before laughing at my gawking expression. I suddenly remembered about the others.

“Um...weird question, but how about if I end up loving more than one man?” My voice was small, filled with hesitation as I looked at the floor.

“Oh sweetie, you mean the other boys? Don’t fret over such human-like morals. Maybe it’s because I’m more in tune with my spirit, but I don’t care about you having multiple mates. With the way Stryker and Azriel fight, I doubt those two would give you up, especially if Azriel has a liking for you. Add that with Elyion and Ryuu and I’d foresee a declaration of war,” she explained.

“What about Kai?” I inquired, curious as to whether he’d react or not.

“Kai would win by default if he participated. All he needs to do is pull out the list of favors those boys have collected and you’re his. My son would probably cheat and use his dark flames to revoke him. He has a competitive side to him which he gets from his Father. They both hate losing.”

All these favors. I’d love to hear all the stories behind these apparent favors the boys owe him.

She shook her head as she approached the oven, taking the oven gloves to pull out my chocolate muffins.

“The timer hasn’t gone—” I began before the little white timer began to ring, shaking in place.

She pressed the button, silencing the annoying sound before placing the muffin tray next to the others to cool; the steam rose as the sweet, chocolate scent sailed across the room; my nose involuntarily took a big whiff. Yum.

“I used to cook for five never full shifters. A headache I tell you.”

“Let me guess; Ryder and Daniel playing around, while Marcus laughed at everything, Elias the only one paying attention and Kai sitting in the corner drawing everything out.”

“You know your knights well,” she complimented.

“Your Majest—”

“Please, call me Violet. Such titles are so overused here. Nice to have a change of pace from a young shifter. Everyone else is too afraid to act out. Makes life so boring,” she complained, sighing.

“I could only imagine. You can call me Mako. Um...I have one more question.” I stood up to face her; my face grew serious.

She raised an eyebrow, noticing my change in expression.

“You can ask me anything. What would you like to know?” she encouraged.

“Why does Ryder believe emotions are a weakness?” I questioned with a stern voice.

Violet opened her mouth to answer when another voice interrupted.

“Because a leader doesn’t need such a weakness as emotions bringing him down.”

We both turned to the entrance way, a tall, bulky man entered the room.

From the power leaking off his large, built structure to his dark purple eyes, I could guarantee that the older man before me was King Carter of Minato.

He was six-seven, looking like a giant compared to my height. He had short, black hair combed fashionably to the side and his short, black beard had hints of grey. He only had a few wrinkles where his laugh lines were, appearing older than the queen, who didn’t look older than forty cycles. He wore a simple, black top and black pants, and no shoes as he approached us.

He wasn’t sporting a simple, gold crown like I’d imagined, but I guessed with his overpowering aura, you’d be a complete fool if you couldn’t guess he was the King.

“And you must be the shifter who caused that nuisance to pee all over my floor. I had to get the maids to scrub it before it dried, and the stench couldn’t be removed. I’ll admit, I’m impressed,” he commented reaching his wife’s side.

“Or you can admit that it was the most entertaining showdown you’ve seen in rotations. I saw you struggling. Hiding from that annoying man, like a child. If it wasn’t for the presence of her uncle, you would have laughed your head off.” Violet smirked before leaning on her tiptoes to kiss her husband who didn’t hesitate to return the gesture, giving her a serene smile as they wished each other good morning.

“He really loves her,” Midnight whispered, emerging in the back of my mind. He truly does love her. You can see it in his eyes and the way he smiles.

Violet burst out laughing as the King blushed.

“It seems that habit hasn’t left you,” Violet praised.

“Uh...did I have it when I was younger?” I questioned, slightly embarrassed by my outspoken thought.

“Yes. Not as frequent, but you did openly state once that one of the Royals was ugly and in desperate need of a shower to rid his yucky smell.”

I groaned pinching my nose. Why me?

The King cleared his throat, reminding me of my question.

“Thanks for the compliment…I think. In regard to your previous statement, I disagree.” I looked towards him, standing my ground though his power gave me the urge to quiver in the corner.

When I’d met Winterlya, I knew she was powerful, but she’d kept her aura on lockdown, only a glimpse of it leaked out when she’d cast the spell to awaken Midnight. But with the King, he didn’t just let his energy leak, he purposely boasted it in waves. I don’t know if he did it on purpose or not, but I was struggled to keep my body from shivering.

He noticed my struggle, smiling before taking a step forward as a challenge – one I was ready to face even if it was a foolish act of defiance. I had spent too many cycles backing down; I made a vow to myself that I wouldn’t do that again, for anyone.

I bit my lip standing my ground, Midnight edged closer to my mind as we both gazed up at him. His eyes widened for a brief moment before he smiled.

“You aren’t an ordinary shifter are you, young one?”

“Of course not. Ordinary is boring. I’m unique and one of a kind,” I boasted, confidently.

A hearty, baritone laugh soared through the kitchen; my eyes widened, glancing at Violet who looked just as shocked by his sudden laughter.

“I can see why my son has an interest in you. You’re still the spunky, outspoken child from all those cycles ago. You still remind me of Arthur; though, your defiant nature must be from Catherine.” He chuckled before giving me a light smile as his aura retreated.

My tense shoulders relaxed, Midnight retreated from my mind. It was becoming stuffy with all this power.

“I guess I should introduce myself. My name is Alexander Carter, King of Minato and Ryder’s father. It’s a pleasure to meet you…” He introduced himself before trailing off.

“Makoto. Makoto Heart. Uh...my given name is Rosalina, but I like Mako better. The pleasure is all mine, your Majesty,” I said bowing.

“Rise Makoto. Bowing is so over-rated,” he replied, rolling his eyes.

“I told her that,” Violet commented.

“I’m going to ban everyone in Heila from bowing. It really is bothersome,” I agreed before we all laughed.

“What’s your opinion on emotions than, Makoto?” he proposed; his voice grew serious once more, but withheld his power.

“I think emotions make individuals stronger. I don’t see it as a weakness. Sure, there are different levels of emotion and depending upon the situation, they could be seen as a weakness. But, I don’t think that is enough for them to be considered a weakness altogether. It’s our emotions that drive us. It’s our emotions that motivate us to do good or battle evil. Or even to become evil. But, it’s those same emotions in some that give them the strength to get up and put on a crown and lead their people, who love them. It’s those same emotions that help a father teach a son how to become the best man he could possibly be. How to become a great ruler and follow in his footsteps, even if he has some really big shoes to fill. The Starlight gods gave us such feelings and those emotions to help us grow as individuals. I don’t think it should be frowned upon. To say that one man’s emotions shaped him to become evil and that is why emotions should be seen as a weakness, isn’t a valid reason. Or to say that one man’s emotions are what caused him to lose his life or the lives of others and that is why emotions should be seen as a weakness, isn’t a valid reason. Because then it would be the reason that someone could look at you and say that the love you feel for your wife, for your son, and for your people makes you a weak man. And that’s not what I see when I look at you. And it’s definitely not what I see when I look at your son. So, I disagree with your teachings and think your son would be a glorious king one day using the gift the Starlight gods have bestowed on him,” I lectured.

Ryder had explained to me his gift – his ability to sense the emotions of others, especially the other knights. I knew it was difficult for him to sort through and control the emotions that filtered through him on a daily basis.

I could tell that he struggled between controlling his own emotions and not allowing them to be affected by the others. But I didn’t care, I was here for him through the good and the bad and I would remain here for him for as long as the Starlight gods allowed.

We stood there in silence; my words lingered in the air. I was tempted to fidget in place, but fought the urge, needing to make my point clear.

I felt a pair of arms embrace me from behind, the intoxicating, rose scent greeted me as my back pressed against a firm, broad chest.

I looked up, those bright, purple eyes gazed down at me; those devilish lips giving off a prideful smile.

“I agree. Emotions can either push you to success or lead you to your downfall. It’s up to the individual to decide, the gods as their witnesses. I won’t think of such blessings as a hindrance anymore,” he whispered before his face lowered – his lips met mine as we kissed.

He pulled away, grinning from ear to ear.

“Sure, just make-out in front of your in-laws. You’re so good at first impressions,” Midnight praised, her dull, bored tone filled with sarcasm as my eyes widened, and my face burned.

I looked back at the King who appeared stunned and the Queen whose shoulders shook as she suppressed another laugh.

“I – um – dammit Ryder!” I cursed, turning in his embrace to slap his chest in embarrassment.

He laughed, as I continued to hit his chest.

“This isn’t funny! Stop laughing.”

“Yes, it is, your face is beet red,” he continued.

Violet’s laughter echoed as she lost the battle she had fought, joining in with the teasing.“Someone was lost in the spur of the moment.”

“Ah! So embarrassing.” I placed my head against his chest. I attempted to hide as I prayed to the gods to suddenly disappear.

“Definitely a breath of fresh air. Well, seeing all this food is making me hungry. Shall we set breakfast up?” Alexander announced with a satisfied smile.

“OH! The egg soufflés should be ready! Ryder let go.” I pushed out of his embrace before I raced to the second oven, quickly slipping on the oven gloves as I opened it to retrieve the goodies.

“Honey, Ryder. Why don’t you guys go set the table? Mako and I will finish up here.” She gestured grabbing her apron off the hook. Ryder eyed me, his eyes landing on the apron I wore – his apron.

I huffed at the smug smile that formed on his face before he turned to face his father who’d been eyeing his wife.

They both made their way out of the room, my ears perked up as I concentrated on their conversation.

“I guess I’ve been a bit harsh on you. I’m glad you’ve met someone who loves you whole heartedly,” Alexander admitted; his voice low made it hard for me to pick up.

“It’s fine Dad...as long as you stop with this absurd game of trying to find me a wife.” He pointed out.

“I didn’t think it would gather such foolish, low ranking shifters. You’re my son and deserve better.”

I wanted to continue listening, but didn’t want to intrude any longer till a hand slipped in mine and tugged me forward, Violet’s finger pressed against her lips, signalling me to be quiet.

I nodded as we reached the doorway before peeking out to the dining room, Ryder and Alexander faced each other.

“I...aren’t you disappointed?” Ryder whispered, his pained tone hurt my heart.

“Disappointed? My only son has worked his butt off these past sixteen cycles to find the woman he loves with his fellow knights, while balancing your mission and all tasks I’ve given you thus far. You even brought that feisty woman, who is the perfect person to spice things up in the castle. I know you may assume that we have harsh feelings towards you due to Anya’s kidnapping...but that was out of your control Ryder. Your mother and I will always love you and be proud of the man you’ve become. I don’t want you looking down on your gift. I want you to realize it may sometimes be a weakness to you, but it can be your strength, just as Makoto emphasized. Understand?” He stood there with pride as he stared down at Ryder whose eyes became glossy, looking away before nodding.

Alexander stepped forward, ruffling Ryder’s hair before pulling him into a hug.

“You will always be my son and bring joy and change to our realm. We will support you no matter what, so keep your head up high, my son. The Princess can always slap some sense into you if you need it,” he joked as he patted Ryder’s back.

I hadn’t realized tears overflowed from my eyes and onto the floor as I watched the loving scene between a father and his son. Violet rubbed my back, pulled out a handkerchief and handed it to me. I glanced back at her, those purple orbs filled with tears as she smiled at me.

“Thank you, Makoto,” she whispered, pulling me into a hug.

I finally knew how it felt to be accepted by family; the warmth felt as inviting as the sunlight that guided me home.

Thank you, Starlight gods, for allowing me to experience this moment. May their wounds heal, and they look forward to a better future, their trust lying within you. In stars, we trust.