# Chapter 106: Fragile Bonds and the Dawn of War
Hello, dear readers! It's me again, your storyteller guide. How are you all doing today? I hope you're ready for another intense ride through the world of "Forgotten Wife: Let the Traitors Kneel Down." Chapter 106 is a whirlwind of emotion, battle, and destiny—where mothers and daughters clash over love and duty, where young hearts are torn apart by the very crowns they must wear, and where the shadows of Hades loom ever closer over the entire realm. So settle in, my friends, because this chapter is about to pull at every heartstring you have—and maybe break a few along the way.
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When Fay saw Lissana and Tarik heading toward the temple instead of away from danger, she cursed every stone of that sacred place. She had trusted them to obey, to flee to safety—but trust, it seemed, was a fragile thing when the young believed they had something to prove. She sprinted after them, but they were quicker, slipping through the crowd like water through fingers. The very ground seemed to plead with the heavens, begging for one miracle, one stroke of luck to keep them from doing something recklessly foolish—or, in the worst of cases, from ending up dead before the night was through.
Meanwhile, Abril and Kiara continued their relentless assault on the monstrous creature, their light magic flaring and crackling through the air. Yet no one dared to admit what was becoming painfully obvious: their attacks were doing absolutely nothing. The creature had halted its advance toward the city, forced to defend itself against their onslaught. It opened what might have been its jaws and unleashed a cloud of black smoke that devoured everything it touched. Grass withered to nothing, stone crumbled, and the unfortunate humans who came too close were reduced to ash in the blink of an eye—carbon husks that crumbled at the slightest breath of wind. When Kiara and Abril retreated to catch their breath, they both silently feared that one wrong step into that toxic haze would be their last.
"Does this thing not have any weak points?" Abril cried out, desperation climbing into her voice. She clung to the memory of Cira's parting words—her hope that they would survive. "It must have one! Otherwise, Cira wouldn't have said she hoped we'd make it."
"If it does, I don't believe we can defeat it alone," Kiara responded, her voice tight with exhaustion. "We will need help."
Abril hesitated, her mind racing. All around them, the battle raged against the wave of monsters that had flooded the city. The great creature began lashing out with its tentacles—but these were no ordinary limbs. They had no solid form, shifting like wisps of smoke, yet they moved with terrifying speed and bore claws that could slice through armor like parchment. Abril barely managed to evade one, but the shockwave of its impact sent her staggering backward, her heart pounding.
"Don't get distracted!" Kiara shouted. "The smoke isn't the only threat—those tentacles are fast!"
A sense of dread washed over Abril as she realized how deeply they were in over their heads. And then—she saw something. A figure descending from the sky, cutting through the chaos. Her blood ran cold as she recognized him. It was Tarik. And he was not alone.
Lissana had chosen that exact moment to throw herself in front of her mother, shouting, "Now is not the time to be distracted!" She had ridden in on a horse with Tarik, determined to be part of this fight no matter what. Abril's fury and terror merged into a storm of emotions as she watched her daughter leap from the horse, wind magic cushioning her descent as she landed gracefully beside her mother on the battlefield.
"What are you doing here, Lissana? I told you not to come!" Abril cried, the words sharp with a mother's desperate love. "Is this some kind of joke?"
"I'm here to protect my home, my family," Lissana answered, her voice steady and fierce. "This is also my kingdom, Mama. I won't hide while everything I love is destroyed."
"This is far too dangerous! You need to leave right now!"
"I won't! You can't be sure there's no danger. These monsters threaten to destroy everything we hold dear!"
The creature let out a low, rumbling growl, and Abril shouted for Tarik to get back, warning him that the smoke would kill him. But Tarik, ever the stubborn prince, pressed forward. Lissana grabbed his sword and swung at one of the tentacles threatening her—but the blade simply bounced off, sparking uselessly against the creature's smoky flesh.
"What the demons!" Lissana cursed in shock.
"Lissana! Watch out!" Tarik yelled, rushing toward them.
"Seriously? You want to talk now?" she shot back, mid-combat.
"No, I'd prefer that conversation later—far from this battle. We can discuss it when we're home."
"I'm telling you, it's not over yet!"
As Tarik reached their side, Kiara, who had been silent through their heated exchange, suddenly announced, "I think I found something."
"What is it?" Abril asked, hope flickering in her chest.
"Your whole body is dark and twisted, but there's a small stone inside. It looks like a fragment of its heart."
Everyone turned to follow her gaze. Deep within the creature's inky darkness, something glowed faintly—a small, gray stone pulsing like a heartbeat.
"We can try it," Abril said, steeling herself. "It's not like we have many options left."
Lissana handed Tarik back his sword. He looked at her, surprised. "You don't need it?"
"It's useful, but I don't need it. You use it."
She was right. Lissana possessed the rare ability to forge weapons from pure magic—fire, air, or light. She conjured a gleaming bow from her light magic, nocked an arrow, and aimed for that flickering stone. But the creature was fast. It raised its tentacles to block the shot, and the rest of its limbs lunged toward Lissana with murderous intent. She leaped, wind magic carrying her skyward, weaving between the attacks like a dance.
"I believe this is our chance!" she shouted.
"Since Lissana attacked, it's started protecting that area of its body," Kiara observed. "Everyone, aim for that spot!"
Abril commanded her fireballs toward the creature. It had ceased its assault on the city, wrapping its tentacles tightly around its weak point like a shield. No matter how fiercely they attacked, they couldn't land a single blow. The vital spot was completely concealed, writhing and shifting, always out of reach.
And then—Abril noticed something. The creature's jaws.
When she attacked its mouth, the noxious smoke momentarily ceased. The others caught on quickly, directing their combined assault at the creature's jaws, preventing it from spewing forth more of its vile substance. The beast was momentarily pinned, its attention divided.
But Lissana was faster than anyone expected. She darted forward like a gazelle, weaving through the creature's defensive tentacles, her body a blur of motion. Abril's heart seized in her throat. Tarik went pale, screaming her name in terror. But Lissana paid them no heed.
She had to confront the creature head-on.
Lissana conjured a sword of pure light, and flames danced at her fingertips. She unleashed her magic—a devastating blend of fire and light—straight at the creature. As one of its tentacles swung toward her, she healed her own wounds without hesitation, refusing to be stopped. She struck the stone again and again, and with each blow, the creature's convulsions grew more violent. Finally, with a desperate, earth-shaking cry, the black fog surrounding the creature began to change color. The small, shining stone within it shattered, and the beast convulsed wildly before transforming into a monstrous octopus—and collapsing into a heap of dying flesh.
The creature was defeated.
Abril rushed to Lissana's side, cupping her daughter's face between her trembling hands. She checked her from head to toe, assuring herself that Lissana was unharmed, then pulled her into a fierce embrace. Tears streamed down her face as relief flooded through her. "Thank the gods, you're safe. I thought you would die."
"I'm fine, Mama," Lissana replied, her voice steady despite everything she had just survived. "I'm not weak. I can handle this."
"Lissana, that's not why you're strong. I left you in the land of the fairies because I couldn't bear to lose you. You are my treasure, and all I want is for you to be safe."
"At this moment," Cassiel interjected, "I don't believe there is any safe place. We all have to fight, no matter what happens before or after. I don't want to wait until the end; I want to defend our kingdom alongside you."
"My daughter," Abril said softly, her voice breaking. "I've lived in my home, in my kingdom of faith, my whole life. I don't want to be sent away, Mama. Don't ask me to go far from you; it frustrates me."
Abril finally understood. What had felt like months or days to her had been sharp edges of solitude for Lissana—a lifetime of loneliness spent growing up in an alien land. "I feel small," Abril whispered. "Forgive me for not being by your side."
Nearby, Tarik had fallen back, watching and listening. In that moment, he understood—truly understood—why he had decided not to fall in love with Lissana. They could never truly be together. Each belonged to their own world, their own home, and only the fairies' portal in the palace garden could ever connect them. There was a vast chasm between their kingdoms, one not easily crossed. A gap wider than age, one that had separated them for far too long.
Fay finally reached Tarik, having fought through a horde of monsters to get to him. "You had me worried sick. Don't disobey me like that again."
"I'm sorry, Daddy."
Behind them, from the temple, a great cheer of victory rose—the horde of monsters had been vanquished. But Abril knew her work was not done. So many of her people needed healing. She stood and turned to Kiara, ready to return to the temple.
"Lissana, you will come with us," Abril said. "You can help—I know you can use healing magic."
Abril and Kiara had witnessed Lissana heal herself mid-battle, even from the creature's injuries, and it had left them both astonished. Lissana possessed a great power within her. Without words, they shared the same silent question: what made Lissana so strong?
"But Mama!" Lissana protested.
"I'm not leaving you behind, Lissana. But there are others in the city who need healing. Help everyone you can," Abril instructed, then turned to Fay. "But there are monsters. Is it safe for her to go?"
"Of course. Just be careful not to get caught up in any trouble this time. Besides, there's still something to be done about the dragon that lives in the city."
"Thank you, Fay," Lissana said, grateful for the support.
And so they parted ways—Abril and Kiara back to the temple, while Lissana, Fay, and Tarik headed toward the city. Fay and Tarik took charge of battling the monsters that had invaded the streets, while Lissana moved among the wounded and dying, channeling her healing magic into broken bodies.
As dawn broke, Lissana surveyed the devastation. Bodies lay scattered—those who hadn't made it to safety in time, victims of the chaos. She approached each lifeless form, closing their eyes gently, as if telling them their suffering had ended and they could finally rest. She had yearned to return and fight for her people. But she had never witnessed the horrors of war until now. It was in that moment—surrounded by death and the cries of the wounded—that she finally understood why her mother had been so insistent on protecting her. She had wanted to shield Lissana from the harsh realities of life.
As a princess, Lissana felt the crushing weight of guilt for every life lost. She had not been able to protect them.
Tarik approached, finding her kneeling beside a row of the dead. He knelt beside her and asked, "Are you okay?"
"It doesn't seem like it," she whispered. "I was just thinking how much worse it could get once the battle truly begins."
Fay listened, then spoke with harsh honesty. "In war, there are always deaths. Even if you had been here at the start, you couldn't have saved everyone. Wars bring destruction. And if this is too much for you to bear, you should return to the land of the fairies. This is just the beginning of a great war. If you falter, there will be more deaths than you can save, more pain than you can endure."
Lissana clenched her fists, determination igniting within her. "In the end, I decided to fight. And I will save as many as I can. If I can save even one life that was thought destined to die, then I will have succeeded."
Tarik watched her. She was so young—yet her words carried a maturity beyond her years. Fay's expression softened. "There are those who grew up in the land of the fairies. This is your true home. I'm glad to see you haven't forgotten."
Lissana understood the deeper meaning behind Fay's words. "You must take charge of the dragon you released," Fay reminded her.
In her preoccupation, Lissana had completely forgotten about the dragon. "Where is it?"
"Where you left it. It hasn't moved from that spot."
They hurried back to where the dragon lay—curled up in a ball, sleeping soundly. The soldiers guarding it were terrified. When Lissana tried to approach, they blocked her path. "You can't come near, girl. It's dangerous. The dragon could awaken at any moment and eat you whole. You should leave and not return."
They did not recognize her. To them, she was just a curious child, not the hereditary princess of the Kingdom of Cosset.
"Let her pass," Fay commanded. "She is the one who tamed this dragon. She is your princess."
The soldiers still doubted. "You're lying. Our princess is just a baby. This girl is not our princess—you've deceived us. You are an impostor."
At that moment, Alessandro descended from the sky, his wind magic carrying him to their location. The soldiers immediately bowed as he landed. "She is no impostor. She is my daughter, your hereditary princess. Can't you see that?"
Terror filled their eyes. "Forgive us, Your Majesty. We did not know this girl was the hereditary princess."
"Lissana has been in the land of the fairies," Alessandro explained. "Time flows differently there, so she may seem younger than she is. She has grown so much in such a short time. She is my only daughter."
Lissana had spoken to her father through a magical mirror many times, but seeing him in person felt overwhelming—especially after so long. He looked pale and tired, yet he remained the same, showing no signs of aging. "Hello, Lissana. Are you well?"
"Hello, Father. I'm fine."
"I'm relieved to see you. I was very worried when your mother told me you had returned. As you can see, this hasn't been the best time."
"Are you upset because I disobeyed you and came here?" she asked hesitantly.
"No, I'm not upset at all. I'm just concerned for your safety. This night has been madness."
"I'm sorry, Papa. I know I did wrong. But I felt I had to return. Something didn't feel right."
"It's important that you're safe, but that's not all that matters." Alessandro glanced at the dragon and asked, "What happened?"
"I freed it from darkness. Now it's good."
"Without the darkness, dragons aren't known for being good."
"I know, but I can't explain it. I just know it's good."
Alessandro trusted his daughter. "It's alright. I believe you."
"Thank you, Papa." Lissana reached out to caress the dragon. At her touch, it opened its eyes and purred like a cat. "See? You're harmless, like a cat," she said with a smile.
Fay interjected dryly, "A very large cat that breathes fire, has sharp claws, and is one of the hardest beasts to kill."
Alessandro supported Lissana's decision and ordered the dragon to be taken to the palace—but the soldiers paled. "But Your Majesty! That is very dangerous—a dragon!"
"You know you're dealing with a dragon," Lissana replied defiantly. "I refuse to give up, and I believe in her. We must not let fear take hold when they return to their homes."
The soldiers approached with trepidation. "Dragons can smell fear," Lissana warned. "If I were you, I wouldn't come any closer."
The soldiers immediately retreated, trembling. They fell to their knees before the king, begging for mercy. "Forgive our disobedience, Your Majesty! We don't want to die. We have families waiting for us."
Alessandro's glare was fierce—one that said: if you don't obey, the dragon will kill you. The soldiers, fearing the king more than the beast, nodded in unison. "We will do as you command."
"I will take the dragon to the palace," Lissana declared. "It will feel more comfortable with me."
"Very well," Alessandro replied. "Be careful. I'll see you tonight."
"I will, Father."
Alessandro instructed Tarik to prepare the palace for Lissana's arrival. After he departed, Alessandro placed his hand on Lissana's shoulder. "You have grown so much since the last time I saw you."
"Do you remember it?" she asked carefully.
"Did your mother tell you that I lost my memories? Or did your uncles say anything?"
"No, it wasn't her or my uncles. They never mentioned it. But I overheard your conversations. Wind magic is very useful for spying."
"I see you've learned to use it well. I don't remember all my memories, but I do recall the last time I saw you."
"I'm glad it's this way. I was afraid I was just a stranger to you."
"You are not a stranger. You are my daughter, my only daughter, Lissana. Never forget that."
"I won't."
He squeezed her shoulder gently. "It's time, my girl. I'll see you at the palace tonight." And then he soared into the sky, returning to the temple.
Fay guided Lissana as she flew with the dragon to the palace, where Tarik awaited them at a training camp adjacent to the main palace—they couldn't risk the creature landing too close to the palace itself. Lissana embraced him gratefully. "Thank you, Tarik. I couldn't have done this without you."
"I don't think it's anything important. I'm the one who received your help."
"That's not true. If you hadn't been too stubborn to refuse my request, I might not have disobeyed your priest. You showed me the courage to get it right."
He returned the hug, but remained silent. Unable to lie.
After Lissana pulled away, she approached the sleeping dragon and touched its head, infusing her magic into it. Tarik stepped aside, concerned. "What do you think you're doing?!"
"I just wanted to help."
"You've used too much magic today. You need to recover before using your powers recklessly."
"I know, but I can't help it."
"You have a kind heart, Lissana—always thinking of others before yourself. But you must change that. You need to start thinking of yourself first. I won't always be here to remind you."
She understood. She felt the weight of her responsibilities. She had opened the portal from the fairy realm with the condition of sending Tarik back—yet she hesitated to make that decision. She didn't want to do it. She hugged him again. "I know, but let's not think about that yet."
"But we have to talk about it."
"Yes, but it doesn't have to be now. We have plenty of time—or at least I do. I don't want to discuss separating ourselves when we've just reunited."
"I suppose you have a point. It doesn't have to be now."
Later, Lissana had to hide to avoid being found by the horsemen still patrolling the streets. Without her powers fully restored, she felt defenseless—alone once more. She concealed herself like a mouse until Cira reached out to her in the evening.
"Did you think I was dead? Yet somehow, you managed to survive," Cira's voice echoed through the portal.
"I escaped, Your Majesty, but I lost my dragon and my powers. Abril left me alone. I don't feel like leaving the city—there are guardians everywhere. I can't return to your side to serve you, Princess."
"Don't worry about that. When the darkest hour arrives, I will bring you to me. This is the time to create a portal, so you must not sleep or you won't be able to come."
"Is it possible to recover the key from Hades?"
"Yes, soon we will open the doors of Hades. The dawn of a new era of darkness is upon us, ready to engulf humanity."
---
Back at the palace, when Abril and Alessandro returned, Lissana had already gone to sleep. They decided to speak with her the next day. In their chambers, Alessandro wrapped his arms around Abril from behind. "What do you think now? Should we send Lissana back to the land of the fairies?"
"Alessandro, I beg you, we can't send her back. She fought on our side. But this isn't a decision I want to make alone. Lissana is your daughter too. What do you think?"
"That we cannot hide forever."
"She has only been here for six sharp years, but soon she will turn thirteen. That's too many sharp edges from her family."
"If you're worried about her safety, I share that concern. But I believe she is strong—she could tame a dragon."
"I still follow you without believing it. I encourage Lissana to control her power, but her abilities surpass her understanding—and her connection to Kiara."
"And what do you want to decide?"
"Lissana doesn't have her own heritage, and that's something Kiara and I cannot provide."
"Our daughter is strong and knows how to wield her power. If she wants to stay, then we should allow it."
"But this place will be dangerous."
"All places will be dangerous. When the doors of Hades open, there will be no safe place. I think it's better for her to be with us than to be alone when that happens."
"I suppose you have a point. Tomorrow we will tell her she can stay—if that's what she wants."
"This may not be the best moment, but I'm glad our daughter is on her way back. I want to make new memories with her and with you—memories that belong to me."
Abril turned to face him, her expression softening. "And you will have them. You can count on that. We will create many more memories together."
"Have you seen Yalo?" Abril asked, her brow furrowing. "I haven't been able to see anything that will happen in your future for some time, and it's unsettling. I can't see it. I'm afraid of what that means."
"I will fight for us to have a beautiful future together," he promised.
---
Meanwhile, Liona stayed awake every night, waiting for the moment she could escape. She hated being weak, confined like a caged animal. All she wanted was to return to Cira, to reclaim her power and stop being helpless. Just as Cira had promised, a portal appeared before her in the darkness. She hesitated only a moment before crossing.
On the other side, she found herself in an abandoned mansion that had once served as a refuge. She had despised this place, but now, she felt a surge of gratitude. Cira stood before her. "Thank you for saving me, Princess Cira."
"I only kept you alive because you were useful to me. If you wish to continue living, I suggest you serve me well. When you are no longer useful, you won't live to tell the tale."
"I will never forget your kindness, Princess. I will serve you faithfully."
Cira stepped closer, lifting Liona's chin with a slender finger, commanding her to open her mouth. Liona grimaced as she complied, and Cira forced a small black orb of magic into her throat. Liona's body trembled as dark magic coursed through her. She screamed in agony, convulsing until darkness enveloped her.
When Liona finally rose, drenched in sweat, she felt stronger than before—more powerful, as if reborn. "But it's worth it," Cira said coldly, "if it means you never forget who owes you life and loyalty. I have given you great power, but I can also take it away. If you don't want to live as a miserable rat for the rest of your life, don't even think about betraying me."
"I would never do that, my princess."
"Get up, rest a little. We'll leave at dawn."
"Where are we going, princess?"
"We're going to search for the doors of Hades. We will find them using the keys—they will show us the way."
Liona noticed one key dangling from Cira's neck, but no sign of the other. "I only saw one key. Where is the other?"
"We'll retrieve it first. It holds too much power, and I don't want it to find us. That would be inconvenient and delay our plans."
As Liona ascended the stairs, her resolve strengthened. She despised the Venobich royal family—and Cira was no exception. Deep down, she wanted to kill her, to seize all the power she possessed, to make her regret treating her like a worthless rat. Cira's words were empty, and despite her power, she had no faith in loyalty.
In the woods, Liona met Dagon. "Are you here to celebrate?" he asked, his voice raspy and distorted.
"No, I've come to ask when we will kill Cira."
"Okay, but first we must let this girl open the doors of Hades. Until then, we cannot touch the keys."
"Tomorrow we will leave in search of the doors. Will you follow us?"
"Of course. Everything is under control. When she opens the doors, we will use her to help us kill Cira. Don't let her be useful to us."
"I want to take all the power she possesses and make her regret how she treated me—her and her entire family. I plan to exterminate them."
"You will have it. Just make sure you get what you want."
---
That night, Abril woke in the middle of the night. A dark energy had flickered within her barrier—but it vanished as quickly as it appeared. "What's going on, Aby?" she whispered.
"I sensed something dark inside the barrier. But it was fleeting. I can't feel it anymore; it's gone."
"Do you want us to check it out?" Alessandro asked.
"Yano can feel it too. Maybe it was just my imagination, considering everything that has happened lately."
He wrapped his arms around her, offering comfort. "We've had a difficult day. You need to rest." Abril settled into his warmth, but sleep eluded her. She remained vigilant, searching for any sign of danger.
When morning arrived, Abril rose early, her thoughts consumed by Lissana. She knocked gently on her daughter's door. "Lissana, are you awake?"
"Yes," came the sleepy response.
Abril entered to find Lissana still wearing the same clothes she had worn six years ago. "How are you?"
"I'm fine. Are you well?"
"Yes, forgive us for coming so early. We didn't want to wake you."
"Don't worry. I understand."
"I suppose you didn't bring any clothes from the fairy realm," Abril noted.
"No, I had other things on my mind and didn't think to pack anything."
"Let the servants fetch you some clothes. Your father and I have decided to let you stay here—if that's what you want, of course."
Lissana hugged her mother tightly, her excitement palpable. "Of course I want to stay! Thank you for allowing me."
"But I don't want you to leave that room unless absolutely necessary. We love you too much, Lissana—and that's why we can't take any risks."
"I know, Mama."
Abril stroked Lissana's hair gently. "You've grown so much since I last saw you. Your powers have blossomed too."
"I suppose so. Now I can do things on my own."
"How do you do it?"
"I don't know. When I have a legacy, I just own it and release my magic, just like you taught me."
Abril noticed a flicker of worry in her daughter's eyes. "What's wrong, Mama?"
"Nothing. Nothing is wrong."
"Mama, yesterday I felt something strange, but it disappeared quickly."
"Did you feel it too?" Kiara suddenly appeared, her expression serious. "I sensed something dark within the barrier as well. It was only there for a moment."
"Do you think there's a monster?" Lissana asked, her voice trembling.
"If it's not in Cosset, it's better that we focus on what truly matters," Kiara said firmly. "We're preparing for war, and Cira already has both keys to Hades. Nothing can stop him from opening the gates."
"You're right. We can't waste any time. We should inform the other kingdoms so they can prepare," Abril agreed.
"I'll go home and tell my mother," Kiara said. "But we need to get ready soon."
"Will you return?" Lissana asked, her eyes wide.
"I don't know. It all depends on what my mother says."
"I hope you can come back."
"Me too. I don't want to be apart from Barto when war is looming."
"You're an excellent warrior. I don't doubt you'll be safe," Abril reassured her.
"Thank you for everything you've done for us, Kiara. I truly appreciate it."
"Family looks out for one another," Kiara smiled.
"You've always considered me part of your family."
"Always."
After Kiara said her goodbyes, she found Barto waiting in the garden. The thought of parting filled her with dread, but she knew this day would come. She hugged him tightly. "Come back, I promise."
Barto leaned in to kiss her. "I will return. I'll go to the door now."
"You must come back. I couldn't live without you, so don't even think about looking at another woman while I'm gone."
"I wouldn't dare—unless she had your face."
"Then I'd rip out your eyes," she joked.
"I love you," he said sincerely.
"Why do you say that?"
"I just wanted to remind you, so you wouldn't forget."
"I won't forget, no matter how much time passes. I will always love you."
Barto smiled. "I like this farewell better."
"This isn't a goodbye—it's just a 'see you later.'"
"True."
Kiara leaned in for one last kiss before opening the portal to the elven kingdom, her heart heavy yet determined. She promised herself she would return as soon as she could.
Meanwhile, Cira awoke with a pounding headache. Since she had touched the keys of Hades, their power had begun pulling at her, demanding she approach the gates. She felt the darkness within her take control—as if Hades himself had seized her body, compelling her to leave. She struggled, but it was futile. Liona noticed Cira's distress and approached cautiously. "What's wrong, Princess Cira?"
A raspy voice escaped Cira's throat. "If I'm to reach Hades, prepare us. We must go."
With that decision made, Cira joined forces with the spirits of Hades, merging their power into one. She felt the path to the gates calling to her, guiding her forward.
---
The tension was palpable as Tarik approached Fay with unexpected urgency. "Is something wrong, Daddy?" she asked.
"We should return to the house," he replied, his tone serious.
"Why now?"
"Cira has the Keys of Hades in her possession. We must prepare for what is to come."
"Do we have to leave immediately?"
"Yes, we cannot delay our return any longer."
"I thought I could stay just a few more days," Tarik protested.
"No, Tarik. I must go back home and inform the queen of what is coming. I cannot return without you."
"But—"
"I understand that you don't want to leave Lissana so soon after meeting her. But we are out of time, Tarik."
"Papa, I fought the monster created with the power of the Keys. It cost us dearly to defeat it. In that moment, I realized that to conquer the Dark King and save the world, we must stand united."
"Cassiel has gone to convince the fairy queen. Let's hope he succeeds."
"Is it possible for me to achieve this?" Tarik asked, uncertainty in his voice.
"Don't dwell on that. Instead, focus on returning."
"What do you mean by that?"
"You agreed to become the hereditary prince. Formally reject it, remember? It's important that your decision is made impartially, without feeling forced into a role you don't want."
"Papa, my decision hasn't changed. I still feel the same way I did before coming here."
"Are you safe?"
"If I'm honest, I'm uncertain for a moment. But yesterday, Lissana reminded me why I want to be king. Just as she wishes to protect her kingdom, her family, and her people, I want to do the same. Unless you say it's unnecessary to be king to achieve that, I don't see it that way."
"If this is your decision, I will respect it."
"Thank you, Papa. Could you give me some time to say goodbye to Lissana?"
"Of course. Go and say goodbye to your friend."
But Tarik could no longer view Lissana as merely a friend. After their heartfelt conversations, he realized how deeply he cared for her—even though they had known each other for such a short time. It didn't matter. He knew he had to find her, for that day would mark their separation, each returning to where they belonged.
Tarik found Lissana at the training camp, where the dragon had been resting. She wore a soft pink dress—the attire of the Kingdom of Cosset—and her smile brightened the gloomy atmosphere. "Tarik! The dragon is better! Just look at him—doesn't he seem more lively?"
"Yes, he does seem improved," Tarik replied, though worry lingered in his eyes.
"But you don't look well. Is something wrong?"
"I came to say goodbye. I'm returning to the land of the fairies."
"Will you be leaving me?" she asked, her voice trembling.
Tarik reached for her hand, sensing her sadness. "My priests allowed me to come here, but I can't return to the mortal realm. My place is here, with my family." He brushed a strand of hair from her face, his heart aching. "I wish things were different. I wish I could stay."
"Once again, we must part," she said softly.
"Yes, it seems we are not destined to walk this path together."
"You don't know that. We are the ones who decide our destinies," she insisted.
"Promise me you will appoint me as the official successor of the fairy queen when she asks you to do so," he said earnestly.
"When you reign, you will set the rules. Things don't have to be this way," she countered.
"I will bear the weight of my kingdom on my shoulders, Lissana. It's not because I'm being forced—it's my choice. Just as you have decided to return and take your place as princess, I want to do the same. It's not easy for me either. When we kissed, I thought I couldn't bear to be apart from you. But seeing you fight for your kingdom with such determination—it reminds me of who I am."
"Does that mean everything will end before it even starts?" Lissana asked, fear in her eyes.
"I haven't even begun, Lissana. My feelings for you are real, and they always will be." Tarik gently caressed her hands, then leaned in and kissed her forehead. "I don't want to leave, but I can't abandon my duties as hereditary prince. If it were a different time—a time of peace—I wouldn't hesitate to stay by your side."
Lissana wrapped her arms around him tightly. "Peace will come, Tarik. This war will end someday. When it does, we will talk again. For now, let's not think of this as a goodbye, but rather a pause."
Tarik's heart ached as he pulled away, wiping her tears with his thumb. "Don't cry, Lissana. It breaks my heart to see you like this."
"It's just that I haven't left yet, and I already feel like you're a part of me that's missing."
"Let's think of this as a temporary separation. We've parted ways before, and we will find each other again. This time will be no different."
Lissana leaned in to kiss him, but he remained just out of reach, teasing her. "We will meet again. This will be the seal of our promise."
Their lips met in a kiss that bound their hearts—a promise that this was not a farewell, but a "see you later."
---
Fay bid farewell to Alessandro and Abril, knowing she would soon return to the fairy realm. On her way, she encountered Cassian in the countryside and paused to speak with him. "Are you going to be part of Fay's journey?" she asked.
"I was going to talk to Alessandro and Abril to inform them that I will return to the land of fairies," Cassian replied.
"When do you plan to leave?"
"Tarik went to say goodbye to Lissana. We will depart once he finishes."
"It seems everyone has a priority to return home. Kiara has brought tomorrow back to her kingdom."
"The war is about to break out; it is not the best time to be away from home."
"You're right. Did the fairy queen ask you to come back?"
"No, but I want to return and inform her that Cira already has the two keys of Hades in her possession."
"The last time I spoke with Maya, she mentioned that her reign had not yet made a decision about joining the war. Do you know anything about this?" Cassian inquired.
"No. In her letters, the queen only asked for one thing: to send Tarik back. Honestly, I believed Cassiel would convince her to join the fight."
"I suppose that's a poor expectation. Cassiel has not regained his full powers; perhaps that's why he hasn't been able to persuade her."
"The queen is too cautious. She won't fight a war she isn't sure of winning. I will talk to her and try to convince her that we must fight, but I'm not sure we can change her mind."
"I hope you succeed. You saw what we can do with the keys. The coming war will be unlike anything we've known. If we're not united, fighting like common people, we may not have a chance to win."
"I hope luck is on our side," Cassian said. "You must be quick; don't linger."
Before Cassian left, Fay asked, "What do you plan to do about your family?"
"What do you mean?" he replied, puzzled.
"Will you bring them back or leave them in the land of the fairies?"
"This is the safest place at the moment. It may take a long time for you to stay there if necessary. Why do you ask?"
"I just wanted to know your thoughts on the matter."
Cassian had spent enough time with Fay to know she was omitting something. Just as he was about to press further, Robert Reece, the captain of the horsemen, appeared. "Prince Cassian, could we speak with you for a moment?"
"Yes, go ahead," Cassian replied.
Fay took her leave and went to find Alessandro at his workshop. She delivered her goodbyes and a message from Terran about their plans—the army would march to the desert of Xurt in a few days after burying their dead. She also passed along Alessandro's message for Cassiel: he must return to the human kingdom and join their army, or be forced to.
After Fay departed, Terran spoke in private to Alessandro. "I understand that Fay prays for Cassiel's love for the fairy queen. I don't believe she will let him return."
"Cassiel will return; he cannot deny himself. I just hope she wants it enough not to leave him alone on the battlefield with his powers incomplete," Alessandro replied. He stood and headed toward the door. "Prepare the shadows to protect the palace and watch over Lissana. Find them quietly so they won't be discovered."
"As you wish, Your Majesty."
"You will fall in the palace. My daughter will be there, so be careful."
"I will protect her with my life, Your Majesty."
"But it will be worth it if that's the case."
---
Fay ventured into the garden where the entrance to the fairy kingdom lay hidden, waiting for Tarik. He appeared hours later. "We can go back. Open the portal," she urged.
Tarik opened the portal, but before crossing, he heard Lissana's voice. "I will write to you."
Tarik turned halfway, and Fay stopped him. "We should go."
"It will only be a moment," he replied. Fay let him go.
Tarik approached Lissana, who had feared he had forgotten her. "I wanted to tell you everything, but I'll see if I can explain that it wasn't like that," he said, embracing her. "I won't forget you, Lissana."
"I won't forget you either," she replied softly.
He kissed her gently before stepping back. They crossed the portal, and in an instant, they found themselves in the fairy realm. The portal closed behind them with a soft thud. Tarik paused, glancing back at the spot where it had opened, as if wishing to cross it again.
"We must go to the queen," Fay said, placing a hand on his shoulder. "She knows we're here and must be waiting for us."
In the throne room, Leriana, the fairy queen, sat in regal silence. Tarik was taken aback by how much she had changed since their last meeting—her figure was curvier, her presence more commanding. He wondered if Lissana had experienced a similar transformation when he first returned to the human kingdom.
"A lot has changed," Leriana said. "Welcome to the prince's house."
Before they could continue, Fay interjected, "We don't need to wait for the queen; we have time to discuss matters later."
They approached the throne, with Cassiel standing beside her. Fay and Tarik bowed.
"Your Majesty, we must return," Fay said.
Leriana knelt before Tarik, examining his face in silence. "Are you my successor?" she asked.
"Yes, this is a decision I have made," he affirmed.
"I'm glad you feel this way. Tonight, we will have a celebration to honor your return."
"This is not the best time to celebrate, Your Majesty," Tarik cautioned.
"Why not?"
"Cira has the keys to Hades in her possession."
The queen's expression hardened. "Have the doors been opened?"
Cassiel responded in Fay's stead. "Only the doors to Hades are open now. We had already accounted for this. When they open, the entire earth will tremble; nothing will be spared."
"Your Majesty, the doors have not yet opened, but I am certain you will be prepared," Tarik said. "We must ready our army for battle."
The queen ignored his comment. "Leave us. We will talk later. Right now, adults must speak."
"I will not go. I am the heir to the throne, and I deserve to know what you have to say," Tarik insisted.
The queen shot him a piercing gaze that sent a chill down his spine. "Do not repeat that, Tarik. Leave and let us speak in private."
Tarik hesitated, knowing disobedience would lead to severe punishment. "Forgive me for my immaturity, Your Majesty. It was not my intention to offend you." He stepped back and left.
Once alone, the queen instructed Fay to explain everything happening in the human kingdom.
"The war will soon begin, Your Majesty," Fay said. "Especially with the power of the keys to Hades. When united, their power is overwhelming."
Cassiel finally spoke, his voice urgent. "The power of the keys is nothing compared to the horrors that lie behind those doors! We don't have time, Leriana. You must make a decision: will you join the war or not?"
Leriana hesitated. This was not a decision to be made lightly. Cassiel took her hand, his touch reassuring. "This time, you are not alone, Leriana. I am here by your side."
"If it were just my life at stake, I wouldn't hesitate. But it's not just my life—it's the lives of everyone in my kingdom. My decision will affect them all."
"I know it's not easy to make this choice, but you must understand: if we do not stop the dark king, he will continue to devour worlds, and one day he will reach us. There will be no one left to fight beside you."
"Are you threatening me?" she asked, her eyes narrowing.
"No, I'm merely stating the truth. The dark king seeks to consume and destroy all creation, all life. There is no point in hesitation, Leriana. Please, make your choice."
---
Leriana had watched her world collapse into darkness before—which was why Cassiel had created his own dimension, a realm filled with life, light, and color, so that his people could live in brightness and not in shadow. But she understood that whatever Cassiel decided would be the truth, no matter how much she tried to escape it. There would come a moment when the darkness would reach her. Fear gripped her—a fear of witnessing everything she loved turn to ash.
"I assure you that we will win!" Cassiel declared.
"I can't assure you of that. This is a gamble you must take. Don't give me false hope."
"I don't want to give you false hope either. But I want you to make a decision based on the truth, not my lies."
"This isn't something I can decide right now," Leriana said, frustration creeping into her voice.
"Forgive my rudeness, Your Majesty, but I don't believe we have much time," Fay interjected. "That's why you must make a decision."
"I will not make a hasty decision. I need to think carefully."
"I have a message from the king of Cosset for the first guardian," Fay announced. Cassiel turned to hear it. "He says you should return to Cosset to participate in the war. You cannot deny your duty."
Leriana's annoyance surged. "You say you will stay with me, yet you would leave!"
"If I must, Leriana, I am the first guardian. I cannot abandon my post."
"Then go! Go and fight your war! Don't let me hold you back!" Leriana turned and stalked away. Cassiel dashed after her, catching her arm gently. "Please stop. We need to talk."
"I don't want to listen to you. Anything that comes from your mouth is a lie," she shot back.
"Don't lose your temper; just listen. You know that I want to be with you—and that's why I'm asking you to stay with me. I don't want to fight this battle alone. I want to do it with you. When it's all over, I want to stand by your side and never let go."
Leriana could see the sincerity in his eyes. Despite her reservations, a flicker of hope stirred within her. "I told you that this is what I want, but you keep avoiding the truth. What is it that you truly desire, Leriana? What does your heart dictate?"
"I'm not sure," she admitted, her voice softening.
"Believe that you can't lie. Don't lie to me—not if that's truly what you want."
"I don't lie. But I can't give you an answer, Cassiel."
"Do you love me?" he asked, his gaze unwavering.
"What does that have to do with anything?" she deflected.
"Don't avoid my question. Do you love me?"
"Yes, I love you," she confessed, the weight of her feelings crashing down.
Cassiel leaned in and kissed her, his lips brushing softly against hers. "That's your answer. Stop second-guessing yourself. You've always prioritized your kingdom over your own desires. Now, think only of us. Don't hesitate. Fight by my side. Be with me."
"I will fight beside you," she said, uncertainty lingering. "But I hope I won't regret this decision."
"I'm sure you won't. Together, we will find happiness."
"But what if it's not worth it? I don't want to lose you again."
"You won't lose me this time—because I choose you. I choose us."
"I believed you had to protect the world," she said, her voice trembling.
"My world is you. And I will protect you," he vowed.
---
Meanwhile, in the human realm, Enzo was at the training camp when Hans rushed in, visibly agitated. "What's wrong, Hans?"
"A letter has arrived from the kingdom of Cosset," Hans replied, urgency in his tone.
Enzo hurried to open it. The expression on his face confirmed Hans's worst fears: the great battle was about to begin.
"Is it time?" Enzo asked.
"Yes, the war is imminent. We need to convene a meeting with our generals. We must organize our army and march to the Shurt Desert."
"Do you know anything about Cira?"
"Only that she has two keys in her possession, and the doors of Hades will soon open."
"She's still there. We must save her," Enzo insisted.
"We will save her, I promise you that. We just have to hope it's not too late. If she doesn't want to be rescued, there's nothing we can do," Hans replied, his voice heavy.
"I believe she wants to return. Assure me that she wants to come back," he pleaded.
"Are you really considering going to war?" Enzo asked, astonished.
"I would go to the depths of Hades if it meant I could bring her back. Don't question my love for her. I will do whatever it takes."
Enzo had never heard Hans speak with such fervor. "If you ever doubt yourself, you won't succeed. If you want to accompany me to war, I won't stop you."
Hans bowed before Enzo, a gesture of respect and gratitude. "Thank you, Your Majesty."
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Enzo marched with his army into the Shurt Desert, where he would unite with Elisha's forces. He had been in contact with her; she had warned him of the dangers threatening her kingdom. Even though he felt selfish, Enzo couldn't help but feel a surge of joy at the thought of reuniting with Elisha. He awaited her with eager anticipation.
---
**Reader's Impressions & Star Rating:**
Oh, what a chapter! My heart is absolutely pounding after reading all of that. This chapter masterfully balanced heart-wrenching family moments with high-stakes battle sequences and political maneuvering. The reunion between Lissana and her parents was beautiful and painful all at once—the weight of six separated years crashing down in a single embrace. And Tarik and Lissana's farewell? Absolutely devastating. You can feel the love blooming between them, only to be crushed by duty and distance. It's tragic and beautiful in equal measure.
The parallel storylines building toward the war—Cira preparing to open the doors of Hades, Liona plotting her revenge, Enzo marching to meet Elisha, and the fairy queen finally choosing love and war—all weave together into an epic tapestry of anticipation. I was also deeply moved by Hans's desperate love for Cira, even knowing she may be beyond saving. And let's not forget that dragon! Lissana's bond with it is endearing and mysterious.
Chatper 106 delivers everything: action, emotion, romance, betrayal, and the inexorable march toward an apocalyptic confrontation. The writing pulled me into every scene, made me feel every tear, and left me desperately wanting more.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rating: 4.9 / 5 Stars
**Next Chapter Prediction:**
With Cira fully consumed by the power of the Keys and marching toward the gates of Hades, and with Enzo's army converging with Elisha's on the Shurt Desert, the stage is set for an epic confrontation. I predict the next chapter will show the opening of the gates themselves—the horrors of Hades spilling into the mortal realm—while the fairy realm finally commits to war under Cassiel's influence. More importantly, I expect Lissana will face a difficult challenge: deciding whether to use her connection with the dragon as a weapon in the coming war. And with Kiara returning to the elven kingdom, there may be shocking revelations about Lissana's true heritage—perhaps something even Abril doesn't yet know. The battle lines are drawn, and our heroes are about to face their greatest test yet.
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