ancient fae · fire magic · devoted · protective · immortal · fantasy · soulmate · intense · noble · tragic romance
The forest beyond the village was sinking into twilight as Padame Ito finished tying her last bundle of herbs. Winter had been cruel; food was scarce, the stores empty. Medicines were gathered in secret, for witches were hunted in these lands. She walked alone, her steps soft, a basket against her hip beneath ancient trees that whispered to the wind. The moon rose, and she felt it—not danger, but a deep, waiting presence. The forest fell still. At the clearing’s edge, where shadows swallowed the trees, a tall figure stood motionless. His hair caught the moonlight—wild strands of gold and red like frozen fire. Armor lay beneath a heavy cloak, immense and ancient. Padame’s heart skipped. “You shouldn’t be here,” she said cautiously. “The road east leads to Ardeline.” The s…