The sun hung low in the sky, casting its golden glow over the vast expanse of the meadow. The air was fresh with the scent of pine and wildflowers, and the wind whispered through the trees like an ancient secret. Nora laughed, her heart light as she ran across the field, her bare feet brushing against the soft grass. Behind her, a group of playful wolf pups bounded along, their little paws kicking up the earth as they chased after her.
With a flick of her wrist, Nora made a flower bloom in the palm of her hand, the petals shimmering in the afternoon light. She spun in a circle, sending the tiny blossoms floating through the air, much to the delight of the children watching. They giggled and clapped, their eyes wide with wonder. Magic was such a part of her being, a natural extension of her soul, and the joy it brought to the younger ones was something she cherished.
"Look, Nora! Do it again!" one of the children squealed, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
Nora smiled shyly and gave a small nod. Her magic flared to life again, this time causing a gust of wind to swirl around her, lifting leaves and petals in a mesmerizing dance. The children screamed with delight, running and spinning in the breeze she created, their laughter filling the air.
She had always loved this—the simplicity of these moments. It reminded her of the peace she felt here, in the heart of her pack's lands. New England was her home, though time moved differently for her kind, and she was grateful for every moment spent among her people.
After a while, the pups grew tired, and Nora was left to herself, walking alongside the small group of children as they made their way toward the village.
"You're so lucky, Nora," Fidela, her best friend, remarked, grinning widely. "Everyone looks at you like you're a queen. You could have anyone you want."
Nora flushed, pushing a strand of her wild, untamed hair behind her ear. "I don't need anyone, Fidela. I'm happy here, with you and the pack."
Fidela rolled her eyes. "You say that now, but you never know what the future will bring."
The two women made their way to the village square, the bustling heart of the community. The markets were in full swing, with vendors calling out their wares and children running between the stalls. Nora felt the familiar hum of magic around her, a comforting presence, as she browsed with Fidela through the various trinkets and goods.
It was then, as they passed a stall piled high with exotic fruits and flowers, that she collided with a stranger.
The man was tall—unnervingly tall—his dark, wavy hair falling around his sharp features. He was dressed in a fine black cloak, the edges embroidered with an intricate, almost ancient design. His eyes, when they locked with hers, were a piercing red, glowing faintly under the midday sun.
Nora took a step back, her heart suddenly pounding in her chest. She was unused to such intensity, to someone who could make her feel as if the very air around her had changed.
"I'm sorry," she stammered, feeling heat rise to her cheeks. "I didn't see you there."
The man smiled, a slow, knowing smile, as if he were aware of something she didn't fully understand. "No harm done, my lady."
There was something about the way he spoke, something dark and compelling, and it made her breath catch in her throat. She couldn't explain why, but her pulse quickened as if a part of her soul had recognized him. The realization startled her, and she quickly looked away, trying to steady her racing heart.
"Are you... okay?" Fidela asked, her brow furrowing in concern as she watched the exchange.
Nora nodded, swallowing hard. "Yeah, just... startled, I suppose."
YOU ARE READING
The demon kings stolen queen
FantasíaFor a thousand years, Kek, the son of the Devil, has hunted for his stolen love-a powerful fae queen named Nora. Torn from his side by his treacherous half-brother, a werewolf hybrid determined to keep them apart, Nora was hidden in a world that str...
