One - Alden enjoyed his work. He was free to travel and experience everything the Realms had to offer, even if that opportunity was often accompanied by danger. The risk to his life was one thing. He never expected to one day be risking his body and future due to an unexpected encounter with a Centaur that threatened to send them both into madness.
Two - Alden managed to survive the Fae encounter. Waking in Elias's home has left him unsure of how to proceed. Luckily, Elias doesn't have the same problem. Under his urging, Elias accompanies Alden through the Glade to ensure he doesn't have another Fae run-in, but things aren't so clear cut as they both fall into heated lust that has nothing to do with the Fae and leaves many unanswered questions.
Three - Alden finally delivered the message with the help of Elias. With no reason to stay together, it falls to Alden to make any excuse to accompany the powerful centaur. The two spend their days traveling from one centaur tribe to another, but instead of losing interest, Alden finds himself more enraptured with the other male. When the final parting comes, Alden can't bring himself to leave and will do anything to stay by Elias's side. Even if it means becoming his mare.