Battle for the Heart - CC/AU M/L TEEN - [COMPLETE]

[Strawberry Shortcake 17]

Hey kids,
I know I've been gone for a while, but I've been in a weird place emtionally lately and I think I'm finally out of my funk. I think it has been the absense of writting in my life and I think I need to get back into it again. It makes me feel good to tell a story, and I've missed this.
I hope my long hiadis hasn't upset all of you. Just know that I have been in hell here at school, trying to get all my shit together and not doing a very good job of it. Thanks for holding out hope for me.

Katie

Part 30

“Are the troops in ready, commander?” Michael asked the lower ranking officer.

“Yes sir,” he responded with a salute, “They await your command.” Michael turned to Max and nodded. Max nodded in understanding and raised his sword.

“Hear me, Antarians,” Max commanded. “Khivar has placed vipers in our den and wants to stop us from reclaiming what is rightfully ours. We will not let a few snakes keep us from glory. Fight bravely and fight hard, for we fight for our freedom from tyranny and the evil oppressor Khivar.” At the mention of Khivar’s vile name, the entire army voiced their hatred of the current untrue king. All the army was quickly assembled, and while some were hard to convince away from the ale houses, they were drug by their fellow soldiers to get ready for the battle that stood between them and Khivar.

Max and Michael rode out the center of the field where those under the command of General Pierce had assembled. Pierce and another man on horseback rode to meet them.

“Surrender Zandros and perhaps Khivar will spare your life when this folly is finished.” Pierce taunted him.

“Never, but to be fair, I give you the same option Pierce.” Max taunted right back.

“I’d rather die.” Pierce spat.

“I think that can be arranged.” Michael warned him.

“We are to do battle then?” Max asked.

“I shall see you in Hades, you unworthy dog.” Pierce said venomously.

“Then keep my seat warm, Pierce, for you shall greet the Underworld first.” Max told him as he spun his horse around and headed back to his army with Michael following behind. Max said nothing; he merely nodded at Kyle and Alex and raised his sword. With a loud war cry, the army took off toward the opposition, with them barreling towards them. The loud clash of metal as the two sides collided could be heard all the way into the Crystal Castle.

----------------------------------------------------------------

“It has begun.” Isabel said as she picked up her cloak. Her duty was clear. She was to protect the wounded and guard the men’s backs. Her pack of unfailing arrows were slung over her shoulder and her bow was crossed over her form in the other direction. She marched out the castle door, but before she could leave Liz grabbed her arm.

“Be safe princess. Bring our men back safely.” Liz hugged her and kissed her cheek. She knew how important Isabel was to this army and what all was at stack. Given the opportunity, Liz would have fought at Max’s side, but she could not. She was needed inside the palace to treat the wounded and protect the Crystal Castle.

“Thank you my queen. I will protect them with my life.” Isabel said as she bowed to Liz. Liz was touched by Isabel’s calling her “my queen” and she took the significance of its meaning to heart. Isabel put her hood over her head and vanished before everyone’s eyes.

“I think I need to get me one of those,” Maria commented. Ava chuckled and Liz just shook her head. Leave it to Maria to joke at a time like this.

----------------------------------------------------------

The fighting was fierce and the gods watched as the battle raged on down on Earth. The only absent gods were Hades and Aphrodite. Hades, for his recent defection to Khivar’s side and Aphrodite, because she was never far when her son was fighting. She had been at his side in every battle, never meddling, merely keeping a watchful eye on her eldest and dearest son. She had also taken interest in Rathos’s recent love. Well, to be correct, this girl was the first he had really ever cared about. All the others were just passing conquests, while this one made his head hurt and his heart swim with her constant spitfire attitude and her passionate lovemaking. He didn’t know whether to love her or hate her, but he couldn’t imagine being without her.

---------------------------------------------------------------

“Give up fool. You can never win against Khivar.” Pierce told Max as they clashed swords on horseback.

“You have not defeated me yet Pierce.” Max told him, deflecting his offensive strike. What Max didn’t see was the soldier advancing on him and Pierce who were locked in a heated battle. The soldier cut Max’s horse’s flank, also slicing into the saddle rigging, causing the horse and Max to fall. Max landed on the ground with his leg caught under the bleeding horse. Pierce seized his opportunity and jumped off the horse and stalked towards Max with his sword ready to strike. Max called out in panic. His leg was caught under the horse’s weight and he couldn’t pull it out.

-------------------------------------------------------------

Liz was tending to the latest wounded soldier to come into the castle. All of them were bloody and tired and many would not make it, unless Max could end the battle soon enough to return. Liz was helping another soldier onto a table when she got a vision of the battle field. She saw Max slip off the horse and Pierce moving towards him. Liz screamed and Maria came running.

“What’s wrong Liz?” she asked.

“Max, he’s down. Where is Isabel?” Liz asked, looking around. Out of nowhere a figure appeared.

“I’m here Liz. What’s happening?” she asked.

“Max needs you. You have to save him from Pierce.” was all Liz got out before Isabel pulled the hood over again and ran out the door.

“Oh Zeus, save him!” Liz prayed as she looked heavenward.

-------------------------------------------------------------

“Rathos,” the sweet voice whispered, “Your king needs you.” Michael’s guardian angel was whispering to him again, and while he never asked the angel who she was, he always followed what she said. It had saved his life many times. Michael turned his head and saw Max lying on the ground under the weight of the fallen animal and in a flash was moving towards Max.

--------------------------------------------------------

Zeus watched the whole scene play out and thundered in rage. Zeus was about to zap himself down to the battle field when from out of nowhere, Rathos appeared at his king’s side, running a very surprised Pierce through, killing him instantly.

--------------------------------------------------------

The entire battle stopped when Michael’s sword pierced Pierce’s flesh. He staggered backwards and fell to the ground, with the sword sticking up out of his torso. He opened his mouth and a bubble of blood trickled out.

“You’ll never win Zandros. Khivar will destroy you,” he said as he breathed his last and his head fell back and his body slumped in death. Michael walked over to Pierce’s dead body and pulled his sword free.

Kyle and Alex had seen the commotion and were helping Max out from under the horse. His leg was going to hurt; he just hoped it wasn’t broken. He could heal it, just not here. Supported by Kyle and Alex, Max mounted Kyle’s chestnut brown horse.

“Your leader is dead. I give you the same option I give all my defeated armies. Join us or fall on your sword in cowardess.” Max commanded the now defeated army. Many fell on their sword that day, but the few who did not swore loyalty to Max and Antar, adding many needed recruits. The collecting of the dead and wounded soon followed, but first Max had to get back to the castle and fix his leg. It hurt like hell!

---------------------------------------------------------

Liz was pacing the castle gardens, worry etched all over her delicate features. She was no help in the hall with the wounded because every soldier she looked at made her worry more about Max. She was so deep in her thoughts that she never saw the figure coming over the garden wall. She never heard it coming until a pair of powerful arms had wrapped around her like a vice and when she tried to scream, her mouth had been covered. She struggled to get free, but it was of no use. The unknown figure drug her off and out of the castle to awaiting horses. Liz was bound and gagged and pulled to sit on a horse in front of an unknown rider. They were headed north, toward Khivar’s castle.

TBC…

[Strawberry Shortcake 17]

I figured I needed to put up 2 parts to redeem myself.

Part 31

Max, Michael, Kyle, Alex, Isabel and the rest of the tired army entered the Crystal Castle’s gates and into the great hall to help treat the wounded and get patched up themselves. Maria went running to Michael with Ava not far behind running for Kyle.

“Oh thank Zeus you are safe!” Maria exclaimed. Maria kissed his face all over, finally landing on his lips. “Are you hurt? I hope you aren’t hurt. What happened? Is Pierce dead? Did we win? Are you sure you aren’t hurt?” Maria’s questions flew past, one by one. Michael couldn’t even process hr questions that fast, let alone answer them, so he shut her up the best way he knew how. He kissed her hard, until she was just quivering lump of flesh.

-------------------------------------------------------

Aphrodite looked at the scene before her and sighed at the tender moment shared by her son and his love and saw the others of their group pair off, all except Max. Where was Liz? This was so unlike her. She should have been the first to greet the returning heroes. Aphrodite did a sweep of the castle and could not find her. She reached out for Liz, and gasped when she saw where she was and figured out what had happened. She flew down the stairs, making a b-line for Max.

“Where is Liz? Have you seen her?” he asked Maria and Ava.

“She went for a walk in the gardens to clear her head. She got a vision of yours and Pierce’s battle and couldn’t stop worrying. I haven’t seen her since.” Ava told him.

“Zandros! Zandros!”Aphrodite screamed, “They’ve taken her. Pierce’s second stole Liz. They are taking her to…”

“Liz is being taken to Khivar!” Lady Serena yelled as she ran to Max.

“Could you let me finish one sentence, geeze?” Aphrodite huffed.

“Wait! What, Liz has been taken?” Max asked as he sat down on the nearest seat. The weight of what was just said to him finally sunk in. They have Liz, his precious Liz. “Where is she?”

“Khivar is waiting for his men to deliver her by nightfall.” Aphrodite told him.

“We have to rescue her!” Maria exclaimed. “Max, please, we have to save her!” She ran to his side and fell at his feet.

Max looked down, “We will Maria, I promise you we will.” he looked over at Kyle, “How long does the army need to rest?”

“At least 2 days Max, then they might be ready.” Kyle told him.

“Tell them to rest through the night and the day, we march tomorrow at dusk.” Max told him.

“Max, I don’t think that is enough healing time. Many of our men are in dire straights.” Kyle pleaded.

“My wife is in danger, Kyle! We need to go after them and rescue her. Tell all the men that the queen has been taken and that I am depending on them to help me. The capital is only a day’s march from here. The men must be ready.” Max told him.

“Yes your highness.” Kyle bowed and proceeded to tell the men of the newest orders and the queen’s plight. Max turned to Alex.

“Do you think we stand a chance?” he asked his trusted friend.

“Not unless we have a plan, and I’m hatching one up right now.” Alex said, wandering off to his room where his maps and charts were located.

-----------------------------------------------------------

Liz couldn’t see anything; all she could do was listen. She heard the constant fall of the horse’s hooves, the breathing of the person behind her and the quick commands the “leader” gave the riders. She was flanked by 4 horses, one in each compass direction. All of her captors were men, or so it seemed from the voices. They were heading towards Khivar’s castle, but other than those few clues, she knew nothing.

Then when she had figured the riders would go on forever, they abruptly stopped. Liz would have tumbled right off the horse if the rider behind her hadn’t been quicker to grab hold of her. Liz could hear a gates opening and the horses moved forward at a more leisurely pace. Then, the horses stopped and the rider behind her jumped down and grabbed her around the waist. Liz attempted to struggle with him, but he was just too strong for her. Her feet made contact with the ground and her blindfold was whipped off. There before her stood the tyrant, Khivar.

“My dearest Elizabeth, I’m so glad you could finally join us here in the capital city.” Khivar reached out to brush a lock of hair out of her face. “I’m sorry for the way you were brought here. I wouldn’t have had to use force if you weren’t being poisoned by that fraud Zandros.” Liz jerked her head away from Khivar.

“Zandros will come for me, and when he does, he will kill like the dog that you are.” Liz spat at him. Khivar backhanded Liz.

“I’d watch that venomous tongue of yours, milady, else you will not have it to utter such nonsensical mutterings.” Khivar got very close to her face and whispered so that only she could hear. “Besides, I don’t think Zandros will want you after I have already claimed you as my mistress, in every sense of the way.” Liz’s eyes grew wide at the understanding of statement.

“I’d rather die than be your whore.” she whispered back to him venomously. Khivar stood back and wore an expression of mock horror.

“Elizabeth, you insult me. You played the whore to Zandros so well.” Khivar said, insulting her as the men around her laughed. “Take her to her private quarters. She needs time to settle in and get accustomed to her new home.” Khivar just laughed as Liz attempted to struggle to get free. Her future had turned from bad to worse with the chance that Max was hurt back in the Crystal City to being Khivar’s captive and her rather recent discovery earlier this week that she may be carrying Antar’s next heir to the throne.

[Strawberry Shortcake 17]

I'm back, and this is a long one. I dedicate this one to all the Stargazers out there.

Part 32

Liz was drug up several flights of stairs and then thrust roughly into a door at the top of the winding stairs. She fell to the ground with the force of the shove, and when she turned around to try some sort of escape, she saw the door close and heard the tell tale click of the door locking. The realization that she was truthfully stuck here hit her hard, and the tears began to flow.

She cried for a little while and then finally looked up to survey her new prison. There was a small bed and a vanity. A small chair and a desk were in the far corner. The walls were drab and there was only a small candle lit to give the room light. Liz crawled over to the bed and curled up. She was glad she had the luxury of a bed; even if she was sure she wouldn’t be able to sleep on it at all this evening.

Liz didn’t see the small gold ball that slipped inside her window. The ball floated over the bed and materialized into a curvaceous form next to the bed.

“Elizabeth” the voice whispered. “Elizabeth, are you awake?” it asked. Liz rolled over, scared to look at what might be on the other side of the bed. She looked up and into the beautiful face of Aphrodite. “Hello sweetheart.” she said.

“Aphrodite? What are you doing here?” she asked.

“I’m here to protect you dearest. You are going to need me in the next few days, and Zandros sent me to look after you.” she told her.

“Max? Is he alright, he isn’t dead is he? I would have felt it!” Liz cried. Aphrodite climbed on the bed with Liz and pulled her into a tight embrace with Liz’s back to her front.

“Child, shhhh, your love is fine. Rathos saved him. Zandros is rallying the troops and will be coming to rescue you; you just have to have faith. My son would never let anything happen to your king.” Aphrodite said to Liz, trying to get her to calm down. Aphrodite didn’t realize it, but she had just let some very interesting information slip, something that only her and Ares knew.

“Your son?” Liz asked, looking up at the deity. “Cupid?” she asked.

“Umm, no, not Cupid. My other son, Rathos.” Aphrodite admitted. There was no point in lying to the girl. She had always wanted to tell him, but after the years he had spent hating his father, she worried that he would hate her too. This new Maria influenced Michael was a better person, better than Aphrodite had ever seen him. He was always so nasty and brooding, but not with Maria. Sure, he was still callous, but he was definitely improved.

“Michael is your son?” Liz asked. “Max said Michael didn’t know his mother. He said he was Ares son and you are married to Hephaestus, unless Michael is a product…” Liz said shocked.

“Of my affair, yes he is, and I have loved him and his father for years, but I was kept away from them.” Aphrodite said wistfully, taking a trip down memory lane. “When Michael was conceived, our affair had just been discovered. Ares and I are strange bedfellows, Love and War, but we loved each other fiercely, much like Rathos and your sister Maria. When Zeus learned of what I had done, betraying his best friend and disgracing the gods, he confined me to my home with Hepaestus, but not before he stole Michael and planted him within a mortal woman’s body. The poor unsuspecting mortal couldn’t handle Michael, the son of 2 full gods, and she died in child birth. Because he was born of a mortal, he is mortal and Zeus stripped him of many of his godly powers. The strength he would have had, the product of love and war. But, he was never given the chance. Her family left him with a colony of monks and I wasn’t released from my confinement until his 10th birthday. I saved him from the massacre that killed the monks, but I could not reveal myself to him, so I called upon Ares to take responsibility of our son. He did, but Ares was never meant to be a father. He could be a warrior and a passionate lover, but never a father. I would often sneak out of my home to go and protect Rathos, but Hermes caught me and reported my wanderings to Zeus. He was furious.” Aphrodite stopped, remembering the incident that occurred.

“What happened?” Liz asked.

“Zeus gathered all the gods and I was publicly humiliated. Ares was accused of ravishment and was restricted to no female contact for the next 50 years. This punishment made him increasingly angry, and he would take out his anger on armies, in ale jugs and on Rathos. I pleaded with Zeus to give him back his powers, so he could protect himself. Zeus took some pity on Rathos, seeing the pain his son was putting on this poor, confused child. Zeus agreed to give Rathos back some of his strength, just enough to put him above men, but not equal to gods. This way, Rathos could hold his own when Ares stumbled in drunk. One night is finally came to a head, and Rathos finally gave Ares what was coming to him, and knocked him out cold. Rathos ran away and joined the Trojan war, sadly on the side of the Greeks, but they won, so my eldest son was safe. I managed to save him from the same plight as Ulysses, and he was instructed to help Zandros. You know the rest.” Aphrodite told her.

“Why doesn’t Michael know?” Liz asked. This whole story was shocking. She had never known any of this, and she was sure she was one of the first to hear this.

“I just never knew how to tell him. I’m afraid he’ll reject me, and after all I have been through, I don’t think I could take the rejection. I spent my life protecting him in battle. He thinks of me as his guardian angel, and that is a relationship that has worked for us for years.” Aphrodite explained.

“But, he deserves to know. If Ares was that bad of a parent, he needs to know there is a parent who really loves him. He needs you.” Liz told her. Liz was surprised to see the tears begin to form at the edges of the deity’s eyes.

“I know he does, but for now, you are my biggest concern Elizabeth, for now, you are under my protection.” Aphrodite told her, praying that her son would be safe without her.

-----------------------------------------------------

“We can’t just attack head on!” Michael bellowed. This strategy session was giving him a head ache, as usual. He hated having to think things through like this. First Ulysses, now Alexander.

“We don’t have any choices. They will expect us, no matter what we do, and time is running out for Liz. You know Khivar and how sadistic he is.” Alex told him. “My plan is simple. We need you, Max and I to lead the army at the front gates, that way Isabel, Ava and Kyle can sneak in and rescue Liz. It is the only way. If we have all their attention at the front of the fortress, then we will have a better chance of not getting noticed coming in the back. Isabel’s cloak will come in handy, and Ava’s godly powers will give them the boost. Kyle will take out any guards and get Liz safely back to us.” Alex explained to him.

“I hate to say it, but I don’t see any better possible plan.” Max said. “Are we in agreement then?” Max asked looking around the table. One by one, heads began to nod and when he got to Michael, his scowl answered Max with a no, but he nodded his head too. “Then, rally the troops, we march at dusk.”

They all got up from the table and went to prepare their things, and spend some last minute time with their significant others. Max’s heart sank at the thought of going to an empty room. Liz was his pillar of strength, and now on the eve of his toughest test, she was gone, stolen from him right out from under his nose.

-----------------------------------------------------

Isabel and Alex returned to their room, and Alex quickly closed the door and gathered Isabel into his arms. “I’m so afraid for you Isabel. If it wasn’t for your magic cloak, I wouldn’t have even considered you for this mission.” Alex told her, nuzzling her hair. He pulled her tight to him, relishing in the feel of her sweet body and the ability to hold her like this.

“Alex, I have to. Liz is in danger and Max needs her. I will do what I can as the princess and protector of Antar’s true king.” she told him.

“I know sweetheart, but I can still fear for you.” he said, kissing her forehead in a tender gesture.

“And I shall fear for you Alex, because I will not be able to protect you on the battle field like I would like to.” she said, pulling him closer, hoping to meld her body with his, so that she could be one with him.

“I swear to you that I will not die on the battle field tomorrow Isabel. I will come back to you. I always have and I always will.” he told her.

“Oh Alex,” Isabel sighed, grabbing the lapels of his shirt and bringing his lips down hard on to hers. Their kiss flared to life and the passion on the room was heavy. Alex pulled her close, bringing his hands up under her shirt. Isabel loved the feel of his hands on her bare flesh. It felt so good to be this close to him.

Alex began to walk them into the room and stopped when he felt the back of Isabel’s knees hit the bed. He slowly lowered her down, never breaking their kiss, until he pulled Isabel’s shirt over her head. Alex gasped at her beautiful form. She was the most beautiful creature he had ever seen. Isabel instinctively reached up to cover herself, and Alex brushed her hands away.

“Please, don’t hide yourself from me. I want to see you. You are so beautiful Isabel.” he told her. Alex moved onto the bed next to her and gathered her in his arms and began kissing her again. Alex’s hands began moving off her back and around to the front of her body. His tentative strokes were inflaming her body, and Isabel began to arch her body in anticipation. Alex reached her torso, but looked up into Isabel’s passion glazed eyes. “When you want to stop, just say so Isabel.” Isabel nodded her head, but she was sure she couldn’t stop now if she tried.

Alex tentatively reached up and cupped her full breast, loving the feel, and Isabel let out a pleased sigh. Alex ran a thumb over the extended nipple, and Isabel rewarded him with a passionate gasp. Alex began kissing her neck while he massaged her breast, and his mouth slowly worked its way down to her breast, kissing the pale flesh, then reaching for the nipple with his tongue. Isabel was so startled by the feeling of his mouth on her breast; she practically jumped off the bed. Alex backed off and before he could look up into her eyes, her hands came up behind his head and forced it back down to her breast. Alex was smart enough not to argue.

Alex suckled on her nipple, turning to the other one, giving it the same, very much needed attention. Isabel was moaning and arching her back off the bed, trying to get closer to him, and his amazing mouth. Isabel felt Alex shift, and he removed his shirt, giving her a view of his muscular chest. He was leaner than Max and Michael, but not less impressive. Alex wrapped her in his arms again and pulled Isabel to him, chest to chest. The friction of where their bodies touched felt delicious.

Alex’s hands roamed down to the top of her long skirt and began to slide it and her undergarments off of her body. The skirt came off quickly and Alex flung it off to the side. Alex stared down at the delicate beauty, the woman of his dreams, lying naked in his arms, and he could hardly contain his joy. “So beautiful,” he whispered, right before he moved to kiss her neck, and slowly kiss his way down her body.

Alex kissed her stomach, and slowly moved his hands down to the nest of blonde curls at the juncture of her thighs. “Alex?” Isabel asked.

“Shhhh, I won’t hurt you, I promise, I just want to show you how good I can make you feel.” Alex told her, reassuring her. Isabel relaxed and let Alex continue. Alex let out the breath he didn’t know he had been holding. Alex kissed lower, while his fingers moved in between her thighs. Isabel moaned at the contact. It felt so good. Alex thought he had died and gone to heaven. She was so wet, and it was all for him.

He brought his finger up and parted her folds and found her little pleasure button, eliciting a deep moan from Isabel. Alex stroked her, and her thighs started moving. Alex moved his fingers and slowly inserted a long finger into her body. Isabel’s entire body shuddered at the feeling. Alex started moving the finger slowly, in and out, adding a second finger to pleasure her more. Alex positioned himself between her thighs, with his face close to her heat. He moved closer and snaked his tongue out for a taste of her sweetness. Isabel squeaked at the contact, but it turned into a moan as he began licking her while thrusting his fingers into her body. Isabel’s hips were now moving in time with his thrusts, and her hands were latched onto his skull, keeping him in place. Isabel could feel some strange pressure building, and she was slightly scared of what it meant. Alex could tell she was close, but she was also tensing up, afraid of the unknown.

“Don’t fight it baby, let go, cum for me Isabel, cum for me.” was all the prompting she needed. “Allleeeexxxx!” she screamed as she shattered, warmth spreading through her body as her orgasm took over. Alex greedily lapped at her juices, loving her taste, becoming addicted to her.

Alex slowly moved up her body and kissed her full lips. Isabel could taste herself on his lips. “That was the most beautiful thing I have ever seen.” Alex told her. Isabel was still getting her bearings, considering Alex had just rocked her world. “MMMM” was all she could mutter.

Alex pulled her close and pulled the covers over them. Isabel looked up at him in question. “I’m stopping us here Isabel, because as a princess, you should be married before you lose something as precious as your virginity, and as much as I may want to, I’m not going to disgrace you like that. Goodnight Isabel.”

“Thank you Alex,” she said as she cuddled up to him. And even if his raging hard on was going to keep him up all night, he was going to stick to his word, even if it killed him.

A similar scene was playing out in each of the rooms, including Max’s, as Aphrodite connected his and Liz’s dreams, giving them the peace they needed.

TBC.....
Katie

[Strawberry Shortcake 17]

Hi gang, sorry I have been gone for so long, but I have had a bunch to do and this story had fallen by the wayside. Not to worry, I'm already half done part 34 and this fic should be wrapping up in a few more posts. I have been writing this fic for so long, I'm not sure what I'm going to do, oh wait, I have the 2 other fics on the UC board, so I think those will keep me busy, plus I have a great new idea for a changling series with our boys. Should be interesting. Ok, enough prattle, on with the new part.

Part 33

The Antarian army crested the hill surrounding Khivar’s fortress at the capital city. Max, Michael and Alex sat on their horses, Max on a new animal, because his black stallion had been killed in the last battle. Now Max sat upon Isabel’s pure white mare. She practically forced the reigns of her beloved animal into his hands. She wanted to be sure that even though she could not be with him in this battle that she knew something was protecting him. She was sure Arabella would do an excellent job.

Khivar was standing on top of his battlements, surveying the large army that had amassed in front of his stronghold. He was impressed. The young upstart had gathered a respectable force. That didn’t mean he had a snowball’s chance in Hades of defeating him, but just the same, Khivar was glad to be fighting a formidable opponent.

Isabel, Kyle and Ava were slowly entering the fortress from an old forgotten stone passage way, deep beneath the fortress. Kyle held the layout of the fortress in his hands, something that had been passed down to him from his father, just before he died for attempting to lead an uprising in the early years of Khivar’s rule. The passage led through an intricate network of tunnels that he was sure Khivar had no or little knowledge about. The only people who knew where to open the passages and how were members of the royal family and the members of the royal bodyguard, of which his father had been the captain. Kyle’s family had always been charged with guarding the royal family, and just as his father had done, guarding King Phillip, he too carried on the tradition of guarding King Zandros and Princess Vilondra. They entered the tunnels, just as Max, Michael and Alex rode out to challenge Khivar.

“What a pleasant surprise Zandros. I’ve been impatiently waiting for you to finally gather the courage to challenge me.” Khivar taunted.

“Release Lady Elizabeth and my mother Khivar, and I may spare your life.” Max wasn’t taking the bait. He knew Khivar was trying to taunt him and he would not let it get to him.

Khivar laughed a deep sinister laugh. “You amuse me young Zandros. Why would I let my mistresses go? I do not give up things that give me so much pleasure without a fight.” Khivar bellowed, mocking Max. Max was seeing red. If he touched one ounce of Elizabeth’s delicate skin, he would personally rip Khivar limb from limb.

“You will regret your words and the very air you breathe you vile creature. If you have harmed our queen then your life is forfeit.” Michael yelled back at him. He could see Max’s temper rising and he knew that quickly Max would blow his cool, so he figured he’d stoop to Khivar’s level, protecting Max from his own hot head. Max knew what he was doing and nodded to Michael.

“Just as I will fight to gain them back.” Max answered back.

“Then we are to battle?” Khivar asked nonchalantly.

“Meet us on the battle field you spineless snake and prepare to meet your demise.” Max told him.

“Rash words for a rash dreamer of a boy. I will see you on the battle field. I pray you make it a valiant effort, for it will be your last. And as soon as this folly is over, I plan to celebrate by burying my self deeply into that passionate little whore of yours.” Khivar taunted once again.

Liz watched and listened from the top of the tower she had been locked in and gasped at the things being said. Khivar was baiting Max and she had to tell him what he had said wasn’t true. She tried to hang out the window as far as she could.

“MAX!” she screamed. Max, Michael and Alex looked up to see her dangling out a window.

“NO!” Max screamed praying Liz wouldn’t fall to her doom before he had a chance to save her. Just as Max was about the kick his steed into a full out run, Michael quick grabbed the reigns. His guardian angel whispered that everything was fine and to stop his king from being rash.

“Zandros, stop.” Michael told him. Max spun around to look at him, confusion and anger etched on his face.

“I have to save her!” Max screamed at him.

“No, she is fine. My battle guardian assures me she is fine and that she is merely trying to tell you that Khivar’s words are false. He has not touched your love.” Michael told him while listening to the voice floating past him. Max visibly relaxed and pulled his horse back around to face Khivar.

“You will pay for the insult to my queen you bastard; you will pay with your life.” Max yelled out to him. “Meet me on the battle field and fight me like a man.”

“I cater to no man, so you have to come to me Zandros if you truly want to fight.” Khivar told him.

“If that is that is the way, the so be it. Give my regards to Hades for you will see him soon.” Max answered and turned his horse around with Michael and Alex following, not waiting to hear his reply.

Khivar turned around and called Brody, the captain of his guards. He signaled to the short blonde man. Brody answered the call of his commander.

“Brody, I leave this battle in your capable hands. You have never failed me, so I have no reason to doubt you when I need you in my finest hour. I want you to promise me that you will squash this uprising, but above all things; I want the leaders taken alive. I want the satisfaction of killing everyone Zandros holds dear right before his very eyes. Then, after I have forced him to watch me rape his queen and his mother, I’ll kill them and then cut him into little pieces, while he is still alive. Oh, what fun this will be.” Khivar told him. Brody didn’t outwardly flinch, even though he was flinching on the inside. At some point, Khivar had become sick and twisted. No longer was he the great leader, like in the beginning, now he relied heavily on everyone else to fight his battles. It was sad, how the man had become so deranged that he had warped his very mind. The only person Brody felt more pity for was Lady Diana, who had been the unfortunate recipient of his disgusting and humiliating whims.

“Yes King Khivar, I will not fail you. And, I shall bring you the leaders of the rebel army, just as you commanded. Khivar brought a hand down on Brody’s shoulder and looked deeply into his eyes.

“Thank you Brody, you are the only person I trust anymore.” he told him and then turned to walk away. Brody visibly shuddered. Khivar may be his king, but that didn’t mean that he wanted Khivar to come into any physical contact with him. The man literally made his skin crawl but, Brody’s fear of the man was greater than his aversion. If it was switched, it was a good possibility that he would be fighting on the side of the rebels right now.

----------------------------------

“Angel?” Michael whispered. Michael could feel her presence close to him, and it was very comforting.

“Yes Rathos?” the sweet voice asked. Michael sighed and visibly relaxed.

“Just making sure you were still there. Thank you for warning me about Max.” Michael told her. His guardian angel was the only person he had ever felt completely comfortable with. He knew she was there to help and guide him, and because of her good guidance, he had escaped death uncountable times. It was simply by her good graces that he was still alive, and he thanked the gods for her everyday of his life.

“You’re welcome Rathos. I would never leave your side, not in your greatest time of need.” I love you son, but that last little bit went unsaid. She really wanted to whisper her love to him also, but now was not the time to tell him her true identity. Once they had finished this and vanquished the evil Khivar would she reveal herself to her beloved son.

Max rode up next to Michael’s side, with Alex following closely. The three warriors were an imposing sight. Max was wearing his bow with the magical arrows, along with his godly shield and his magical sword. His armor was impenetrable, and it looked like a second skin, perfectly sculpting his body to make him look even more like the Greek gods of his parentage. Alex wore his armor of Athena, something she had blessed him with several years back for outsmarting the goddess of wisdom at a game of chess. Alex requested armor to match hers, and it was granted, for only the smartest and most skilled earned blessings from Athena. Michael wore the armor of Ares, something his father had given him many years ago. It was very similar to Max’s, but it was a shiny bronze, while Max’s looked like it was made of pure silver. Michael wore a head piece that helped him hear everything on the battle field, more acutely than any mortal being could. He could hear the hiss of an arrow and the faintest breath of a soldier. He could never be caught unawares, especially with the aid of his angel. He carried the sword of Delphi, given to him by the oracle when he was told to serve as the champion of the Antarian army.

Michael lived for battle; it was literally in his blood. War was his heritage and death was his legacy. No opponent stood a chance against the great warrior. The son of War was ready, and all Max had to do was nod, and Michael took off toward the fortress, his loud battle cry ringing in everyone’s ears.

[Strawberry Shortcake 17]

Part 34

“It has begun,” was all Ava said. She had amazing hearing, especially out of water. She could hear Michael’s battle cry, even deep within the fortress’s bowels. The cloaked group reached the door that allowed them to enter the fortress, through the kitchen area, somewhere that would more than likely be vacant at this time. The slipped through the secret door, unnoticed by anyone, slowly making their way toward where Liz was being held.

Kyle knew that even with the impending battle, he wouldn’t take any risks with Liz, or Lady Diana. Isabel had her arrows notched and ready, slowly taking out the guards, killing each one instantly. Ava kept her eyes and ears open for anyone who might be coming up behind them. They moved slowly up the stairs to Liz’s room, winding up the long staircase. The reached the top, and mysteriously found the door to be unlocked. The looked inside and found it empty.

“Where is she?” Kyle asked. This wasn’t good. This fortress was huge and they couldn’t afford to wander the entire building, searching for Liz. They needed to find her and fast. Before either Isabel or Ava could formulate any kind of reply, a desperate scream rang out from deep inside the fortress.

“Quickly, the shrine to Zeus, Liz needs you.” a voice whispered. A slight shimmer passed through the room and flew back out the window. Aphrodite had come through for them again.

“Bless you goddess.” Ava said as they all started running full tilt toward the shrine, in the very center of the fortress. They heard the scream again, the desperation in it ripped deep into the soul of the listener.

They burst into the room, all pretense of hiding gone, to find Lady Diana and Liz chained to the far way, Khivar sitting in on King Phillip’s throne and Poseidon at his side.

“So glad you could join us.” Khivar told the group who had just burst into the room. “You’re just in time to watch me kill the bastard heir to the Antarian throne. Ladies, you may want to step back, it’s going to be bloody.” Khivar said as he stood up, walking toward Liz with a long knife in his hand. “Better to get rid of the little welp, before it has a chance to be born and turn against me, considering I’m going to kill its father soon.”

Liz couldn’t stop screaming. Poseidon had let Khivar in on her little secret. Max’s seed grew within her body and now Khivar was going to kill it before it even had a chance to live. “Please don’t do this. Please, I beg you, please.” Liz pleaded as he stalked towards her.

“Do not touch Queen Elizabeth.” Kyle shouted, turning Khivar’s attention to him, and away from Liz. Khivar smirked.

“Kyle” Khivar said in a welcoming tone. “So glad you could join our little party. Oh, and I see you have brought the princess and my future wife with you. My thanks. I am slightly disappointed though, you did steal my husbandly rights with little Ava, but no matter. Just means she’ll be nice and experienced when I bed her.” Khivar smiled.

“Watch your tongue, Khivar, that’s my daughter you are talking about.” Poseidon warned.

“Daddy?” Ava asked. “What are you doing here?”

“I’m ensuring your rightful title as queen, my daughter. That idiot Zandros made a mockery of you and your status as his betrothed when he chose that little harlot over you, so it is my duty as a father to protect your reputation and gain you the title you deserve.” Poseidon told her.

“What are you talking about?” she asked.

“He’s means that once this messy business of war is over, you will be my queen.” Khivar told her.

“Never,” Ava spat. “I would never marry a monster like you. Daddy, how could you?” Ava asked her father.

“You deserve to be queen, and I plan on giving it to you. A marriage to Khivar would be every thing you’ve ever dreamed of.” Poseidon explained.

“Except for the fact that I’d rather become mortal so I could kill myself. I won’t marry him father. I won’t marry any man, other than Kyle, and that is my final decision.” Ava stomped her foot.

“I’m sorry you feel that way, my daughter, because I didn’t want to have to do this.” Poseidon said as chains locked around her wrists and connected to the far wall. “You give me no choice daughter.”

“Father!” Ava screamed in outrage, shocked that her father would result to stealing her powers and chaining her like a sacrificial animal before the slaughter.

“Let her go Poseidon.” Kyle yelled. His sword was drawn and he was going to have to protect the women in the room, even if he was going up against one of the most powerful of the Olympians and the tyrant Khivar.

“Unworthy mortal. You dare challenge me?” Poseidon mocked him.

“So it seems.” Was all he said. Kyle knew all along that it would come down to this. There was no escaping this palace with out a fight. Kyle was more than ready for Khivar, but even though he wouldn’t let it show, he was not very sure about Poseidon.

Poseidon picked up his sword and planted himself in a battle stance, challenging Kyle to engage him. Kyle faced his immortal opponent, bringing his sword up and signaling his readiness to fight. Liz watched in horror as her vision quickly unfolded.

“Stop Father!” Ava screamed, pulling at the chains that bound her. Liz heard the clashing of the swords and then watched as Kyle made a misstep, giving Poseidon a clear shot at the hole in his armor. Ava screamed in horror and outrage as Poseidon plunged his sword deep into Kyle’s side. Kyle stared in shock as he slumped to the ground, clutching his bleeding wound. Ava was sobbing uncontrollably, filling the shrine with her anguish filled wails.

Then Liz felt the cold hands and the dagger wrap around her body and her neck and the hot breath of Khivar, who was now positioned behind her, holding her to him. Liz was quaking in fear of what would happen next. All the elements of her vision had progressed so far and now she would lose her precious child at the hands of the sadistic murderer. “You are mine,” he whispered as Liz felt the knife caress her slightly swollen flesh then she screamed as she felt it plunge into her soft body.

------------------------

The fighting was getting intense, but the Antarian forces were gaining ground. They had already broken through the first set of battlements and were now scaling the high walls of the fortress. Brody was trying to rally the Khivarian forces, but they were no match for the great warriors of the Antarian army. Zandros, Rathos and Alexander seemes to mow men down like blades of grass, their mortal clippings strewn out before them.

The second door fell as the battering ram crashed through the thick Cyprus wood. Zandros, Rathos and Alexander rode through the opened doors and began to slay every charging enemy, laying waste to all those who dare challenge them. Max looked at the battle raging around him and could not spot Khivar. He knew this was not a good sign. That meant the sniveling coward was hold up somewhere and Max was going to have to smoke him out.

Then Max heard a scream ring out through the palace. LIZ!! His mind screamed. Max took off for the palace on Isabel’s white mare, barreling for the doors to the great hall. Men dropped like flies before him. Michael and Alex heard the scream as well and took off behind him. Max burst through the great hall doors and found no one. His heart rate spiked in panic. Then he felt a slight caress across his check. “The shrine, and hurry” the soft voice whispered.

Max didn’t need to be told twice. He reined his horse toward the shrine and galloped for all the animal could go. He heard Ava scream and then wail like she was being killed and then he heard Liz’s scream of terror. Max jumped from his horse on a full run and burst through the doors as Khivar plunged his dagger into Liz’s stomach.

“NO!!!” Max screamed. He watched as the blood seeped from Liz as she slumped to the floor. There before him lay Kyle, bleeding profusely from his side and Ava and his mother chained to the walls of the shrine. Ava was still weeping and his mother stared on him shocked horror as the events unfolded before her. Michael and Alex were not far behind as they heard Max scream in outrage. Both had their swords drawn, ready to do battle.

Max rushed headlong for Khivar and brought his sword down on the tyrant. Khivar had his sword ready and met Max thrust for thrust. Their battle waged and the 2 fought ferociously, because both knew that one must die for this to end. Michael challenged Poseidon, while Alex ran for Liz. He found Isabel cradling Liz, still wrapped in her cloak.

“Free Ava and my mother, please Alex, quickly.” Alex ran to Ava and quickly studied her bonds. He knew that these would be fashioned by Poseidon, because they were the only thing capable of holding one such as Ava. She was so overcome with grief that she was now vomiting and shaking uncontrollably.

“Ava, Ava, you must listen to me. I need you to help me find the weakness in the links if I’m going to free you. Only you can undo what Poseidon hath made.” Ava looked up at Alex, tears covering her face and deep breaths heaving from her body.

“Get me free Alex, please. Kyle is dieing, I can feel it,” she wailed.

“You have to help me. Think Ava, where is the weakness.” Alex pushed her. Ava tried to focus, knowing she was missing some important element. Then she remembered.

“Fire Alex, fire!” she exclaimed. “The bonds are fashioned by water, but fire can evaporate them. Quickly Alex, grab a torch.” Alex ran to the torch and plucked it from the wall. All around them, men and gods alike were fighting brutally. Alex held the torch under her bonds and instantly they weakened and she was free. Ava rushed to Kyle’s side, placing her hands over his wound, trying to stop the bleeding. As an immortal she had a few powers of her own. Her ability to heal was not as great as Max’s but she knew she could keep Kyle alive long enough for Max to save him.

Alex went to Lady Diana and freed her from her bonds. “Milady,” Alex bowed to Isabel’s and Max’s mother. Lady Diana hugged the young man and then ran to the young girl who Khivar had stabbed. Ava rushed to Liz’s side, holding her hands over the wound. Light started to pour from Ava’s hands, but the flow of blood would not.

“I can’t get it to stop. I can’t save her. I think Zandros is the only one who can.” Ava cried out in despair.

“Ava, you must call upon Zeus. He is the only one who can help us.” Liz gasped out. Ava didn’t need to be told twice. She threw herself on the alter to Zeus and cried out to the king of the gods.

“Hear me, oh mighty ruler of the gods. Hear the cry of your children and know that we need your help to win this day. Save us, oh great Zeus!!!” Ava called out the giant marble statue. At once the statue stirred to life and the marble began to crack and awaken.

[Strawberry Shortcake 17]

Part 35

“Enough!” Zeus bellowed and at once all eyes were on the mighty king of the gods, no longer a marble statue, but moving flesh. Zeus turned his head and found Poseidon in his line of vision. “Brother, you have under minded me for the last time. I banish you to the Titanic prison under the great seas for a thousand years,” and with that, Poseidon disappeared. “And you, Khivar, my once great champion. What a fool I was to believe a man such as you. You have cost me so much, but you will cost me no more. Zandros, finish him off.”

Max found his sword plunging into Khivar’s heart without so much as a conscious thought. He saw the look of shock on Khivar’s face as his life slipped away from him. Max knew that the Allegan fields did not wait for this man. No, an eternity of torment in Hades was his reward for his treachery. He deserved nothing more. Max ripped his sword from Khivar’s body, slashing through more of his soft, vulnerable tissue and sealing his fate. Max dropped the sword and ran to Liz’s side.

There she lay, the deep red blood a stark contrast to her translucently white skin. He ripped open her dress and pressed his hands upon the wound. He felt the connection between them flare and saw flashes of him and her and of a small dark haired boy who was clinging for dear life. He felt Liz’s heart beat and a second heart beat of the newly formed child, nestled beneath her breast. The child had escaped the wound, but the blood lose was killing it slowly. Max repaired the wound, molecule by molecule, putting together the raw and torn flesh. Max flooded her body with warmth, sending healing to the small developing child as he did.

Max collapsed in exhaustion, leaning over Liz’s small body. He felt her take her first shaky breath and tears began to flow down his face at the thought of how close he came to losing her. Liz looked up and weakly smiled at him. “You must see to Kyle.” Liz whispered. Of course, even at this time she was thinking of others instead of herself. Max smiled at her selflessness and his love for her multiplied a million fold in that very instant. Max stumbled over to Kyle and finished the work Ava had started. His wound was much easier to fix, but it still zapped the last of his strength from his system. Max passed out on the floor of the shrine, allowing unconsciousness to take him over.

---------------------

Max awoke in a bed and instinctively reached for Liz. When he found the bed empty he quickly sat up and cried out for her. His door opened quickly and Liz came rushing in to his bed.

“Shh, Max its ok, I’m right here,” she soothed him. Max wrapped his arms around her, pulling her tightly to him.

“Oh god Liz, don’t ever leave me again.” Max told her in a fear stricken voice.

“I promise I won’t. I merely got up to get a bite of breakfast. Since you’ve been unconscious for the past three days, I thought it was safe to briefly step out.” Liz explained to him.

“I’ve been out for three days?” Max asked.

“Yes a very scary three days. Don’t do that to me again.” Liz reprimanded him.

“You should talk woman. How do you think I felt when I found out Khivar had taken you. And then I find you bleeding to death because I was 1 minute too late.” Max said, pulling her tighter to him.

“It is all over now my love. Khivar is dead and because of you, I am alive.” Liz reassured him.

“And what of our son?” Max asked scared that he had not done enough to save the fragile life that was growing in Liz’s body.

“Our son is very well.” Liz smiled. She was sure he would find out about the baby when he healed her and Aphrodite checked her over and found the child was alive and well.

“I love you Elizabeth, with all my heart. I came too close to losing you and it will never happen again. Say you will be mine forever.” Max begged her.

“I will be yours forever my love. The battle is won, and now you have my heart.”


There will be an epilogue following on Monday…

[Strawberry Shortcake 17]

Epilogue

“I can’t do this!” a deep male voice bellowed down the hall.

“What do you mean you can’t do this, Michael?” Liz asked, “A big tough warrior like you is scared of doing something as easy as walking down a little isle and saying ‘I do’.” Liz teased him.

“You make it sound like it’s the easiest thing in the world.” Michael huffed.

“It is Michael, and just for luck, we managed to get the goddess of Love to attend today’s ceremonies.” Liz said in a patronizing tone.

“Humph, the only reason that crazy woman is here is to revel in her role as mother of the groom. I swear I never thought having a mother would be like this.” Michael huffed. It had been a full year since the defeat of Khivar. Aphrodite finally gained the necessary courage to tell Michael the truth about his patronage. Liz could still vividly remember the day.

“Thank you goddess, for everything you have done for us.” Michael said as he knelt at Aphrodite’s feet and kissed the goddess’s hand. Liz watched with hooded eyes, still worn out from the events of the past days but she knew there were more things to be discovered this day. Liz cleared her throat and Aphrodite looked into her eyes, the tears forming in the goddess deep blue eyes were heart breaking.

“No, thank you valiant Rathos, for being a courageous warrior, a gentle man and a son a mother couldn’t help but love,” she told him. Michael looked up at Aphrodite.

“Son?” he asked confused.

“Yes Rathos, I am your mother. You were the product of a love I still hold dear to my heart. I am sorry I have waited so long to reveal this to you, but know I have been with you always, even when I was forced to stay away by Hephaestus. I have seen you through every battle and protected you with my very life.” Aphrodite gushed. Her tears were flowing freely now as she looked down into the beautiful face of her beloved son.

Michael stood up and did the only thing he could think to do, and that was pull Aphrodite in for a tight hug. He cradled his mother to him just as she cradled him. Silent tears fell from Michael’s closed eyes. He had a mother and she loved him. He couldn’t have asked for anything more in life than that.
“Don’t say anything nasty about Mom. You forget she is a goddess, she can hear you, Shaggy,” Cupid, Michael’s half-brother warned him, “And just because it’s your wedding day doesn’t mean she is above playing a few pranks on you while your up in front of everyone just to keep you on your toes.” Michael not only gained a mother that day, but also several siblings, the most famous of which being Cupid. Interestingly enough the 2 formed an instant bond, if only to pick at each other mercilessly.

“What ever Diaper Boy, you just keep an eye on Mom and make sure she behaves. I don’t think I’d be able to hold Maria back if she did something on today of all days.” Michael jabbed back.

“Well, are you ready Michael?” Liz asked.

“Do I have a choice?” he asked.

“What do you think?” she replied.

“I haven’t since the day I drug her into my tent. I guess I’m as ready as I’ll ever be.” Michael said as he a Cupid filed out of Michael’s room. Liz walked down the hall to Maria’s room where she found her pacing and breathing deeply.

“Calm down Maria. Its way easier than it looks. Trust me, I’ve done it.” Liz tried to joke with Maria, but Maria was a bit high strung.

“Says the lady who had an insurance policy riding in her belly,” Maria barked.

“Don’t get huffy with me sister dear. I just came to tell you that Michael is waiting.” Liz replied coolly.

“Sorry Liz, I’m just kind of on edge. Gods, I’m getting married!” Maria gushed.

“Not at this rate you aren’t. Hurry up woman.” Liz pulled her out the door of her rooms.

“Okay, okay. I can do this. Deep breaths, deep soothing breaths,” Maria started freaking again.

“Pull it together Maria. All you have to do is just follow me holding Ares’ arm and then answer one quick question and then you can kiss him and its over.” Liz said pulling her sister to the doors of the great hall.

“Who has the god of war give them away at their wedding?” Maria asked randomly.

“The girl getting married to his son. Now, it’s show time. Make me proud little sister. I’m so happy for you,” Liz said as she kissed Maria’s cheek and made her way down the isle.

Max, holding baby Phillip, who was serving as the ring bearer for his aunt’s wedding, followed Liz down the isle. Phillip had been born 7 months after the battle and had been formally named Phillip Apollo Parker of the royal house of Antar and heir to the throne behind his father, newly coroneted King Zandros Maxwell.

At 5 months, Phillip was already a bit of a handful. He had just started getting his baby teeth and drooled on anything that didn’t move fast enough. He had soft black hair and deep amber eyes like his handsome father. Lady Diana had been overjoyed to witness the birth of her darling grandson. Now she was impatiently awaiting grandchildren numbers 2 and 3. Isabel was now 5 months pregnant and Liz had discovered just recently she was expecting as well. Isabel and Alex and Kyle and Ava shared a joint ceremony 3 months after Liz and Max had married directly following his coronation. Ava still wasn’t expecting, but that didn’t mean they weren’t trying. Kyle was convinced that if he had to be a failure at something, well then he could just try try again.

Kyle was the best man with Cupid and Alex to his left. Liz was the matron of honor with Isabel and Ava on her right. Max stood on the men’s side and turned Phillip to see the crowd.

Max smiled at Liz and Phillip cooed at his mommy. Liz smiled at her beautiful child, but then turned her head as the music changed and focused as her sister on the arm of the God of War, Michael’s father, walked down the isle toward the one man she loved more than life itself. Maria reached the altar and Ares did his fatherly duty of giving away the bride and then the ceremony began.

The wedding was brief but beautiful. Finally they were all married to their other half, a bond that had been forged in hardship and strife and tested in the fires, only to come out stronger and purer because of it. Yes, there were many things Liz wished she could have changed, like the presence of her parents at hers and her sister’s wedding, but she couldn’t help but think that all of the tragedy was worth it in some respect if it meant she could find such happiness with her loving husband and new son.

As they left the hall, Max passed Phillip off to his mother and pulled Liz into his strong embrace. “Have I told you just how much I love you my queen?” Max asked as he brushed his lips across her temple.

“Once or twice, but I don’t mind being reminded.” Liz teased. She turned her face up and Max swooped down for a tender kiss that left her breathless. He could always do that, even when he wasn’t trying. He could always take her breath away and steal her heart with his tenderness and love. She didn’t deserve a man who loved her as much as he did, but she was thankful to each and every god on earth and in the heavens for giving him to her.

“Then I must tell you again, I love you Liz, with all my heart and all my soul. I have fought countless battles but the only one I consider a victory was the one for your heart.”