"And it is the biggest Mountain of Moonrun," Meer said, his voice infused with a hint of pride as he gestured towards the majestic view spread out before them. It was a clear, serene night, and Meer, along with Mihir, had decided to introduce Tabahi to the wonders of Moonrun. It had taken some cajoling, but Tabahi finally agreed.
The night breeze gently brushed against their faces as they stood atop Mt. Nimara, the highest mountain in Moonrun. The panorama was breathtaking, with towns and homes below resembling tiny toys scattered in the vast landscape. Above, the night sky was adorned with stars and the nine moons, casting an ethereal glow. Melodic songs from night birds serenaded them as they absorbed the mesmerizing view.
Meer glanced at Tabahi, who was utterly captivated by the spectacle. Unbeknownst to himself, Meer found his lips curling into a genuine smile. It was the first time he had seen Tabahi display such unrestrained happiness. Although only a day had passed since Queen Fairy granted him permission to stay, Tabahi remained reserved and aloof. This newfound joy warmed Meer's heart.
"This is a beautiful place; I've never seen anything like it before," Tabahi uttered in sheer awe.
"How could you? You're only a week old," Meer replied casually, but the words slipped out before he realized their impact. Tabahi's smile vanished, and his mood deflated.
Meer quickly corrected himself, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean it that way. I was just..." He stumbled over his words, anxiety creasing his features.
Surprisingly, Tabahi burst into giggles. "You looked cute when you were flustered," he teased, his fingers gently pinching Meer's cheeks. "Don't worry; I was just kidding." His smile returned, and his gaze drifted back to the stunning view.
Meer felt his cheeks flush with embarrassment, but he couldn't help but smile in response to Tabahi's infectious laughter. They sat there for a while, quietly reveling in the magnificent vista.
Tabahi eventually began to speak, his tone more solemn, "I was afraid that Krurika would kill me that day." Meer turned to listen, his gaze locked on Tabahi even as the boy's attention remained fixed on the largest moon in the night sky. "I was born an adult, but I was still a mere newborn when they started forcing me. I killed her... her blood was all over me. I thought she would kill me afterward, but then you came and saved me. You were like the god of destruction when you hurled that axe at those green monsters."
Meer placed a comforting hand on Tabahi's shoulder. "Don't worry; she won't return. You are safe with me and my brother."
Tabahi's fear resurfaced as he voiced another concern, "But what if she does come back and tries to kill me?"
"Rest assured, she's confined in the Abyssal Cave. It's impenetrable; no power can open it from the inside or outside. You are safe," Meer assured, his voice steady.
"Abyssal Cave?" Tabahi raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued.
Meer explained, "The Abyssal Cave is the most horrifying place in the universe. It can't be opened or closed without the Queen's permission, and if anyone attempts to breach it, the cave itself defends and devours them. So, don't worry."
"Perfect," Tabahi smiled, his anxiety eased.
After a while, they returned to the castle. Preparations for Krurika's impending death sentence were well underway. The Fairy Arena had been prepared, and protective shields encircled the perimeter, ensuring no unauthorized intrusions. The chambers remained shrouded in darkness, save for one in the left tower – Tabahi's chamber.
Tabahi reluctantly took a sip of the orange liquid from the bottle, making a face at the taste.
"If she's trapped in the Abyssal Cave, then there's no way to rescue her," Riti nearly shouted, her voice fraught with tension. She sat on the bed, her face resting on her staff. In contrast, Tabahi nonchalantly munched on an apple.
"Will you stop eating apples and tell us how we can save her? She's about to face a death sentence!" Riti implored him again. Meanwhile, Ruh stood on the other side, observing their argument with blinking eyes and an occasional yawn.
"It was her plan. She wanted to get imprisoned by the fairies so that I could come here and fulfill her requests," Tabahi responded matter-of-factly.
"But what's the point if she dies?" Riti pressed.
"She's old anyway, and her staff is broken. What's the point of setting her free?" Rub replied, stifling a yawn without delay. Infuriated, Riti gave him a zap with her staff. He tumbled backward, and the chamber filled with the cacophonous crash of broken vases.
Ruh tried to stand but his clumsy hand knocked over a nearby vase, sending it crashing to the floor, shards of pottery scattering across the room. Tabahi, trying not to panic, quickly attempted to use his magic to mend the vase, but it was too late to avoid the noise.
A knock sounded at the door, and Meer's concerned voice came from outside, "Is everything okay, Tabahi? I heard some loud sounds."
Panicking, Tabahi muttered under his breath, "You both are duffers, get out of sight," as he snapped his fingers. In an instant, Ruh transformed into a vase, and Riti became a soft cotton pillow, just in time.
Tabahi took a deep breath, quickly arranging himself and the room to appear as normal as possible. He opened the door, his face displaying anxiety and guilt. "S...sorry, Meer. I had a nightmare and accidentally knocked over your vase. I'm really sorry," he stammered, his voice trembling.
Meer, his expression softening with concern, pulled Tabahi into a reassuring hug. "Don't worry, Tabahi. I'm here for you now. Nothing will happen to you," he said, gently caressing Tabahi's hair.
Although Tabahi felt an urge to burst into laughter at Meer's trusting expression, he suppressed it and pretended to appreciate the comfort. "Thank you, Meer," he whispered as they embraced, maintaining his facade of vulnerability.
As Meer released him from the hug, Tabahi spoke softly, "Can you sleep here, just for tonight, if you don't mind?"
"Of course, no problem," Meer replied warmly. Tabahi smiled, feeling like his act was working perfectly. "Sleep with me," he requested in a tender tone, still playing the part of the innocent and grateful boy.
They settled in for the night, with Meer on the left side of the bed and Tabahi turning onto his side to snuggle against him and acting innocent they both went into deep slumber.