THIRD PERSON POV
Nikolas was strolling through the hallways of the palace, trying to find the garden that Leo and Marcus had mentioned earlier this morning. After spending hours cooped up in the room, reading a book he had discovered in Alexander's room library, he was eager to breathe in the fresh night air and clear his mind.
As he turned a corner, he caught sight of a doorway that led outside. He quickened his pace Finally, he would get to experience the garden that Leo had been talking about.
Pushing open the door, Nikolas stepped out into the cool night air. The garden was even more beautiful than he had imagined. The moon was full overhead, casting a silver glow over the lush greenery. The scent of roses and lavender filled the air, and the sound of a fountain burbled softly in the distance.
Nikolas wandered down a winding path, taking in the sights and sounds of the garden.
The garden was in the heart of the palace. Under the soft glow of the full moon, the lush greenery seemed to glow and come alive, casting shadows across the paths.
Roses of every color red, pink, white, and yellow bloomed in full force , their sweet fragrance filling the air , Lavender and chamomile added their subtle scents to the mix creating a heady bouquet that calmed the mind and soothed the soul.
A meandering fountain provided a gentle background melody, its soft splashing of water created a sense of movement and energy. The sound seemed to dance across the garden, weaving in and out of the rustling of leaves and the chirping of crickets.
Everywhere is so beautiful and the serenity of the garden is a testament to the skill and artistry of the palace's gardeners. It was a place where time stood still, where the cares and worries of the world seemed to fade away, and all that was left was the gentle peace of nature.
Nikolas felt peace wash over him, a sense of escape from the confinement of the palace.
As he continues to enjoy the garden he heard a voice behind him. "Enjoying the garden, sweet heart" hearing that Nikolas already knew who it was because turning around and seeing Alexander standing behind him, a small smile playing on his lips.
"Yes, it's beautiful," Nikolas replied, feeling awkward not knowing how to be around Alexander after finding out he was his mate.
"I am glad you like it. I come here often to clear my head." Alexander replies and the two of them stood there in silence for a moment, the only sound is the fountain and the rustling of leaves in the breeze.
Then Alexander broke the silence "Would you like to walk with me, Nikolas? I can show you the rest of the garden."
"I would like that, yes" Nikolas agreed.
As they began to stroll together through the garden, Nikolas's eyes landed on a beautiful bench, its black surface adorned with some touches of gold designs. Alexander followed his gaze and led them to the bench, gesturing for Nikolas to sit.
"Please, have a seat," Alexander said, his voice low and smooth.
Nikolas sat down, running his hand over the cool smooth wood. "This is beautiful," he said, admiring the designs.
"Thank you," Alexander replied, sitting down beside him. "I had it made especially for this garden. I find that it adds a touch of elegance to the surroundings."
Nikolas nodded, taking in the sight of the garden from their new sight point. "It's stunning," he said. "I can see why you always come here to clear your head."
Alexander smiled, "Yes, it's a peaceful place. I find that it helps me to think more clearly."
They fell into silence again for a moment, taking in the sights and sounds of the garden. Then Nikolas spoke up, his curiosity getting the better of him.
"Alexander, can I ask you something?"
"Of course, Nikolas," Alexander replied, turning to face him. "What is it?"his expression softening.
Nikolas hesitated, unsure on how to phrase his question. He took a deep breath before speaking, his words tumbling out in a rush. "It's just that I want to know, why did your kind...supernaturals...make us humans the lowest of the lowest? Why did your kind kill us humans, treat us badly? Please, why did your kind kill my parents?"
As Nikolas spoke, his voice cracked and tears began to fall, streaming down his face. He didn't even realize he was crying until Alexander reached out and gently wiped away a tear.
Alexander's expression was filled with compassion and understanding. "Nikolas, I am so sorry," he said, his voice low and soothing. "I can only imagine how painful this must be for you."
Nikolas's body shook with sobs, and Alexander pulled him into a gentle embrace. "please stop crying ," Alexander said, his voice filled with regrets.
Nikolas pulled back, his eyes red and puffy from crying. "But why?" he asked again, his voice barely above a whisper. He looked at Alexander with a mixture of pain and accusation, as if demanding an explanation for the injustices his kind and he had suffered.
Alexander sighed, his eyes dropping in shame. He knew that he couldn't provide a satisfactory answer, not when he had been in the same system that had oppressed humans for so long. He had always known that the treatment of humans was wrong, but he had never spoken out against it or for it , he had never taken action to change it. And now, faced with his mate's tears and anguish, he felt the weight of his own guilt and shame.
"I am sorry Nikolas," Alexander said finally, "I am truly ashamed to say that I did not do anything to stop it. I was caught up in my own world, my own privilege, and I ignored the suffering of others."
Nikolas's eyes flashed with anger and he turned away, as if he couldn't bear to look at Alexander. "You ignored it?" he repeated, his voice trembling with emotion. "You ignored the fact that your kind was killing mine? That they were treating us like animals?"
Alexander nodded, feeling a deep sense of remorse. "I did," he admitted. "And I am so sorry, Nikolas. I am so sorry for my part in it."
The two sat in silence for a moment, the only sound Nikolas's ragged breathing. Then, without warning, Nikolas turned back to Alexander, his eyes blazing with tears.
"Promise me something," Nikolas said, his voice low but sharp, cutting through the silence like a knife.
. "Promise me that you will do something to change it. Promise me that you will help me make it right ."
"Nikolas " Alexander started to speak, his voice soft and gentle, but Nikolas sensed a protest brewing. He knew that Alexander was about to down play him, to offer empty words and half measures. But Nikolas was having none of it.
"I will accept to be your mate," Nikolas said, his eyes blazing with determination, "if you make my kind equals to yours."
The words hung in the air like a challenge , Alexander knew that he couldn't refuse, not when faced with the fierce determination in Nikolas's eyes. He knew that if they continued to argue, Nikolas wouldn't back down. And so with resignation, Alexander nodded his head.
"I promise," he said, "I will do everything in my power to make humans and supernaturals equal."
Nikolas's eyes narrowed, his gaze piercing into Alexander soul . "I mean it, Alexander," he said. "I won't be your mate unless you are willing to fight for my people's rights."
Alexander knew that making humans and supernaturals equal would bring a lot of conflict, that it would be a long and difficult road. But he was determined to make his mate happy, to prove his love and commitment to Nikolas. And so, with a sense of resolve, he nodded his head again.
"I understand, Nikolas, I will fight for your people's rights alongside yours ."