Page 58 of Condemned to Love

I wait outside Elowen's room, leaning against the wall with my wings tucked in tight. When she emerges, her damp hair framing her face, my breath catches.

"What's got you so worked up?" she asks, eyeing me suspiciously.

I take her hand, feeling the emotions I'm trying to bury start to come free. "I want to take you somewhere special."

Her eyebrows shoot up. "Oh? And where might that be?"

"Underground," I say, watching her reaction carefully. "To see the Council."

Confusion flashes across her face. "The Council? Why?"

I take a deep breath. "Because I want to mate with you, officially. In the eyes of my people. And they have to grant permission for it." I raise my eyebrows. "As long as it's what you want."

She throws her arms around my neck, laughing. "Of course I do, you crazy ass!"

Relief and joy flood through me as I hold her close. "Then let's go make it official."

Leading her outside, I guide Elowen through the shimmering portal, my hand firmly clasped around hers as I think of the underground caverns. As we emerge on the other side, I feel her grip tighten. The underground tunnels stretch before us, dark and cramped compared to the open spaces above.

"It's... different down here," Elowen whispers, her eyes wide as she takes in our surroundings.

I nod, understanding her awe. "The magic feels more concentrated, more raw."

We move through the winding passages, the walls pulsing with an ethereal energy, the crystals glowing. Elowen's fingers trace the rough stone, her touch reverent.

"It's alive," she breathes. While the above ground bases may be in pulsating wildsponts as well, the magic intense, it's different in these tunnels. Even I feel it.

"In a way," I agree, leading her deeper into the heart of our domain.

As we approach the Council chambers, I feel a flutter of nervousness in my chest. It's ridiculous - I've faced countless battles without flinching. But this... this matters more than any fight.

The massive doors swing open, revealing the circular chamber beyond. At its center stands Brinda, the Matriarch, her fiery hair a stark contrast to her pale skin.

"Aldric," she greets, her eyes flickering to Elowen. "You've brought a guest."

I step forward, my voice steady despite my racing heart. "Matriarch, I come before the Council to request permission to take Elowen as my mate."

A murmur ripples through the gathered Council members. Brinda's gaze sharpens, assessing Elowen with newfound interest.

"The human who fought alongside our warriors," she muses. I mask my shock at her having known, but it shouldn't surprise me. The Council must have scouts reporting back to them from every base. "Your bravery in battle has not gone unnoticed, Elowen."

Elowen stands tall beside me, her chin lifted in quiet defiance. "I fight for what I believe in, Matriarch."

A smile tugs at Brinda's lips. "Indeed." She turns to address the Council. "This human has proven her worth in combat and her loyalty to our cause. I see no need for further trials."

Relief washes over me as Brinda's words sink in. She turns back to us, her expression softening slightly, which is rare for our Matriarch.

"Aldric, Elowen - you have the Council's blessing to mate."

I stand at the center of the clearing with the altar behind me, dusk blending into night. It's been a week since I got the blessing from the Council to mate, and once Jessa and Selene found out, they started planning.

The base has been transformed, adorned with wildflowers and shimmering crystals. Our friends gather around, their faces beaming with joy.

Raziel approaches, his presence commanding respect. He nods to me, a hint of pride in his eyes. "Are you ready, Aldric?"

I take a deep breath, steadying myself. "More than ever."

The crowd parts, and I catch my first glimpse of Elowen. My breath catches in my throat. She's radiant, her fiery hair adorned with delicate flowers. Jessa and Selene flank her, grinning proudly at their handiwork.

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