It didn’t mean he didn’t crave to touch her. They had slept apart the last few nights, and he missed her warm body in his arms.
The Warlocks needed to continue their studies, and meanwhile, there wasn’t much for him to do. This might be the perfect time to take Maeve on a walk, away from everyone else. Only the two of them, resting under the sun, frolicking in the grass.
He could finally kiss her.
“You need to practice if you expect to help free them.” Ystävä’s voice snapped him into focus. The elf spoke to Maeve while biting the tip of his thumb and grimacing with concern. “So far, you are our only hope to free the mountain half-breeds and everyone else taken by this dust. So, until we find any other way to face this, you need to strengthen your abilities.”
Maeve nodded. “Would you train me? Or Finn?”
“No, I’m afraid neither of us is suitable to guide you, and we need to focus on our research. I would recommend you meet with the Tree once more and work with its energy,” the elf replied.
“That is a fine idea,” Finn said. “The Tree has assisted you before, and it helped you unleash your power. I say you won’t find a better training partner.” Maeve followed Ystävä outside to begin her work. Hakken’s eager gaze trailed behind her. Damn luck! Discouraging turn of events, but necessary.
So, what would he do all day? Perhaps Regn would be up for some brawling. To practice, of course. He’d love to knock some teeth out of him. “Perfect!” Finn stood in front of them, rubbing his hands and grinning like a madman. “Do any of you know what day is today?”
Both Regn and he were at a loss.
“Today, my dear fellows, is little Maeve’s birthday. And I don’t know about you, but I have the perfect gift for her.”
Maeve
There were no words to describe the gratifying feeling.
The Tree had been a wonderful teacher. It taught her to discern a vast range of emotions, shielding her own not to be swept into the turmoil. Clearly, Maeve would have to work hard to master her new ability, but she focused on the primordial task. To channel her strength to lead forth one strong notion. Free will.
After a frugal lunch Ystävä brought her, she carried on an entire afternoon, until the slow weight of exhaustion took over her mind and limbs. Maeve had never experienced this contentment before. She worked hard to achieve something only she could do, and all her efforts were appreciated. Thinking about what was at stake made her tense, but the confidence the others placed in her gave Maeve confidence. She felt trustworthy.
When the sun hid behind the tree line, the roots dancing around her buried on the ground, not before showering her with fragrant flower petals as a goodbye. The delicate golden flowers she had helped sprout. Maeve took a deep breath, enjoying the refreshing scent tickling her nostrils before heading back to the cabin.
Shivering under the cool air of the approaching night, the prospect of a warm fire and a hearty meal was alluring. The enthusiastic voices of everyone else inside made her smile as she opened the door.
A blast of colorful flowers hit her right in the nose, almost hiding a bouncing Finn in front of her. “Happy birthday, Maeve!”
Her stunned face covered in petals must have looked hilarious because they were all terrible at hiding their laughter. “My birthday? Are you sure?” she asked, allowing Finn to guide her to the seat of honor.
“Of course, you would forget. Luckily, your brother is the brightest.” Her mouth watered at the sight of the generous table, filled with delicious treats; roasted meats and vegetables, exotic desserts, and an ample assortment of drinks. The floating lights in the room made the colorful feast shine, looking sinfully inviting.
“Are we going to eat all this?” She doubted even Hakken’s appetite could compete with the bountiful meal.
“You can nibble this apple.” Finn handed her a sumptuous red apple. “I’ll manage with everything else.”
“Stand back, you glutton!” Ystävä playfully shoved him to the side, filling a plate with delicacies and offering it to Maeve with a radiant smile. “For you, princess.”
They enjoyed a peaceful and lively meal, forgetting about the dangers and trials lying ahead for a while. As the party advanced, Maeve couldn’t help to think this was the first time since Finn’s disappearance she celebrated her birthday in such grandeur.
But the surprises for the night had just begun.
When she felt she couldn’t take another bite, each one of her friends vanished for an instant. Ystävä was the first to emerge from the shadows. “This is for you, Maeve. The Caterpillar Queen gave me the silk.” He handed her a beautiful white gown with golden leaves embroidered around the hem. “I sewed this myself, I hope you can wear it someday.”
It was a magnificent piece of craftsmanship, and she could only stare at Ystävä in wonder. “Oh, thank you! This is gorgeous, you are so talented!” She hugged the elf, who seemed flattered by the compliment.
Right after his master, Finn presented her with a small book. The cover was made of a soft velvety green material, adorned with silver carvings. “These are some folklore stories from the elves. A gift from one of the previous Warlock. You can find mention of an old human settlement here and... since you always liked stories, I thought you might want to start your own bookshelf.”
Her eyes stung as the memories of her mother’s stories before bedtime came back. “Finn... are you sure you want to give me this?”
“Of course!” Finn struggled with his tears as well. “I’m sure someday you will read them to your children.”
Both siblings fell into a tight hug, only to be interrupted by Regn, clearing his throat. “I...” He blushed
