Chapter 42

                                    

                                          
I felt like I was getting lost in the tunnel. It was the first time I didn't know my way. Regardless, I kept on, trying to make my way into the vaults. This had to lead to it. 
Finally, after what felt like forever, I made my way into the vault. The air was thick and wet, just like it was the past few times we had been here. 
"Moon Goddess?" 
My voice only echoed off the walls. I asked again, sitting on one of the larger stones. I would wait for her.
Prince of the Forest, must you call so many times? She appeared in front of me slowly, again showing me my mother.
"If it gets you here faster. I need advice."
You called me to Earth for advice? Is there not a human who might help you instead?
"It's about Maria. You're the one with the magic. Am I going to hold her back if I keep her in the valley? Is she still going to be able to help if she's living with me at the castle?"
Young Prince, you two were destined for each other. Until the two families are joined, peace will never come to the valley, not fully. 
"But the families have already come together."
A Moon Princess did marry, yes, but not to the Prince of the Forest. Maria asked you to be him, so through the moon pearls power, you took the title. 
"She only asked me to be a prince."
And that was the title meant for you. Before her wish, you were already considered to be him, but no formal title was given. 
"So if we're meant for each other, then nothing will happen to her if she marries me?"
Correct. She will be safe, as will the valley.
I sighed, relieved that nothing bad would happen to her. "Will she get her magic back?"
She has never lost it, however the further we are apart, the weaker her magic becomes. One of the drawbacks, I suppose.
"There's no way you would stay? Not even for her?"
I could not.
"We marry tomorrow. Will you at least stay for that?"
She stayed silent, and I silently begged her to say yes. She nodded once, and I felt the relief rush over me. 
I will stay until the full moon rises above the horizon. Then I will go home, once more.
I nodded in appreciation, and turned to leave, but paused. 
Something else on your mind?
"Could you be her mother tomorrow?"
A soft smile appeared on her lips as she gave another nod. I turned back and left the vaults through the newly discovered tunnel back to the hideout.