Beyond the Veil of Yonder (Book 1)

34. Bidding Farewell

On the eve of their departure, William and Edward stood in the lantern-lit hall of King Eolan's palace. The sun cast long shafts of light through the high windows, creating bright spots on the polished stone floor. The brothers felt small and overwhelmed by the hall's grandeur, and the king's disapproving frown only added to their unease.

Seated on his elaborate throne, Eolan fixed Edward with his cold violet gaze. "When do you plan to return?"

"As soon as I settle some matters in my kingdom." Edward's hushed tone betrayed his hesitation as he looked down.

"The path you've chosen bristles with danger," the fairy king said. The echo in the grand hall amplified his deep voice. "I cautioned my daughter, but love blinded her to your inevitable departure."

Edward's eyes met his father-in-law's, defiant yet pained. "I hope I'm not a prisoner here and can visit my native land."

Eolan's brows arched with cold amusement. "Prisoner? No one asked you to come here. Perhaps it's better if you leave. My only concern is Niamh's broken heart. And since you both know the path to Iorlainn, I can only hope you won't reveal it to other humans."

Sensing the escalating tension, William spoke up, his voice steady despite the doubt in his eyes. "I'll stand by my brother, and I can promise his safe return." But he sighed inwardly. Could he truly keep such a promise?

Eolan's expression softened slightly, though his concern remained evident. "I may soon have answers about bloodfiends, so I expect you to return."

William bowed deeply. "I'm grateful, Your Majesty. This is important not only for me but for my people as well."

"It is important for all of us," Eolan replied, his tone icy.

As the brothers departed, King Eolan's gaze followed them, his mind filled with unspoken thoughts as they disappeared beyond the palace gates. Despite his displeasure, he made sure they were well-prepared for their journey to Aradon and allowed Elizabeth and Dan to stay in Iorlainn a while longer.

༺ ✧ ༻

When the morning of their departure arrived, Niamh went to bid her husband farewell. Elizabeth accompanied the princess, keeping a respectful distance as she watched the men prepare to leave.

William's confident stride faltered as he looked at Niamh with remorse. He saw the resolve in her eyes, the fire that burned within them, and the bitterness in her smile. "Niamh, I'm sorry..." His voice was rough, heavy with unspoken emotion.

Niamh raised her hand, silencing him. Her smile didn't reach her eyes. "You're sorry? Keep your words, William." Her sharp retort cut deeper into the growing chasm between them. "Now go. I want to spend these last moments with my husband... without your presence."

William nodded, unable to meet Niamh's gaze. The reproach in her eyes was too sharp, too raw.

With a final glance at Edward, who gave him an apologetic look, William led his horse away. His head bowed, his steps slow. As he distanced himself from Niamh and Edward, he turned away, unable to watch their farewell—a painful reminder of the family he had torn apart.

Beneath a blossoming tree, Edward and Niamh stood wrapped in each other's arms. Delicate pink petals floated down, tangling in their hair and covering the ground around them. A gentle breeze rustled Niamh's golden locks, brushing a few strands against Edward's cheek.

"I always feared your brother's restless spirit would take you away from me one day." Niamh's voice was heavy with sorrow, her eyes welling up with tears. A single teardrop rolled down her cheek as she searched Edward's face, as if trying to memorise every feature. "My father was right. He warned me that loving a human would break my heart, that no good would come of it..."