Of Blood And Shadows

Chapter one

AERWYN

"Perhaps she injured her head while traveling through the portals. That would explain her erratic behavior," a female voice suggested.

"I'm not so sure. I fear she has merely returned to her former state," a deep voice answered.

"Do you mean she has relinked? What cause would drive her to such a choice?"

"I cannot say for certain, but she did express a desire to escape from all of this."

"Yet that bodes ill for us, for it would diminish her power and perhaps leave us insufficient to prevail in this war," the deep voice said, tinged with sadness.

Aerwyn couldn't open her eyes. She didn't want to know what was happening. Did she die when she stepped through the light? Were they taking her to heaven? In her case, hell would be the best option, actually.

"Enough of this idle gossip. We must concentrate on finding our way back home," a powerful voice commanded, shaking her bones to the core. "I know you are awake, Princess Ondina. Cease this pretense of slumber."

Princess? Those looney fucks. She sat up abruptly, squinting to adjust her eyes to the bright sun. "Where are you taking me? Let me go right now!" Her eyes darted around, frantically searching for something she could use to defend herself. Somehow, she doubted she'd find anything that could beat these three people—creatures—whatever they were.

"Ah, she is indeed awake. I preferred her demeanor when she was silent," the dark blue-eyed guy remarked. She hadn't noticed it the first time, but he had horns sticking out from his head. His long dark blond hair blew in the wind as he tried to light a fire.

"Awaken and greet the day, my princess. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am Laudian."

She didn't ask, but she nodded, trying not to freak out about the sudden schizophrenia that had apparently developed after those two bitch royals slapped her cheeks. Was she still at the palace? Was she now seeing things? Oh, the end of an era. 'Rest in peace, Aerwyn Sparrows, the most iconic black bisexual icon. We'd miss your amazing walk on the runways.'

"Princess Ondina, I believe my friend here was asking a question," the winged female—Dasha—said.

At this point, Aerwyn realized if she was schizophrenic, she'd very much make friends with her demons. They'd keep her company before she died.

"Hey guys, totally nice to meet you," she said in a baby voice. "I'm Princess Aerwyn of... Zootopia, and I'd love to save you from the war, but first, my fair lads, would you bring me some water? I'm fucking thirsty."

"Why do you speak in such a juvenile manner?" the dark-skinned guy with locs demanded. Aerwyn had a feeling he didn't really like her. But that was fine; not all demons were open to love. She'd just have to train him well.

"Is that how to speak to your princess? Why don't just get me some water to drink, like the little demon you are?"

"Demon?" Laudian muttered, then burst into laughter. "She thinks you're a demon, Orayon."

Oh, so that's his name. Why did everyone have such weird names?

"Orayon," she tested, finding that she liked how his name sounded on her lips.