Bonds Eternal (Fae Hearted #4)

15. Storming the Castle

15

STORMING THE CASTLE

ELDRIN

I lead our procession toward the side entrance of the castle where the stables are located.

Roughly thirty elves block our way forward. The narrower access to the stables remains a more defendable entry point for the human soldiers than the front gate. The human soldiers inside the castle walls can repel unwanted guests with greater efficiency.

As I approach, the collective attention of the bespelled elves shifts to watch me. A strange tingle shoots up through my spine at the eerie sight.

I feel the mage’s powerful presence again.

Only ten strides separate me from my crazed audience.

Calling upon my power, I try my best to focus it on those elves closest to the stable gate. “I, your lawful prince, demand entry to this castle to speak on behalf of my father.”

The bespelled elves don’t move or respond in any way.

I fight a shudder under their strange, glossy-eyed scrutiny.

The elves speak in unison, “You are not welcome here.”

“ Stars and stones ,” Wyn whispers next to me, as stunned as I am.

“Mage Idril,” Oakes hisses, even though we all have figured that bit out.

To control them this way takes power, more power than I will ever have.

Nevertheless, I must try to break through her blockade. To back down now might be more devastating. But can I pit my budding power against a seasoned practitioner with more magic than seems possible for one elf to possess?

No, not without help.

I curse at the thought of what I must do.

I check on my mate and sense through our weakened bond link she doesn’t have enough mirror magic to assist me now. Even if she did, it likely wouldn’t be enough.

I’ve almost exhausted my limited power and I’ve had no chance to recharge my reserves.

“ You will let me pass ,” I command, utilizing what’s left of my influencer magic.

There’s a pause before a response comes. Once again, the elves speak in terrifying unison. “You may pass, prince .” They say, mocking my title, which is even more disturbing when said in chorus. “Alone.”

Wyn, Jaden, and Oakes all protest, “No!”

I raise my hand for them to be silent. “I accept.”

“Eldrin, you can’t—” Wyn begins.

Her objection is cut short by the elves’ voices. “And we want the princess.”

“Which princess?” Rhys interjects, awkwardly holding the unconscious Twyla close to him.

“Yes, Prince, which princess will it be?” the mage asks through the elves.

Rhys looks over at me in desperation. He knows I mean to give up the changeling and not my mate. “Don’t make this deal.”

I glance at both Wyn and Twyla. The choice is simple for me. I could never give up my heart, my center, my reason for being alive.

Yet I know Wyn will never forgive herself or me if Twyla was harmed by my choice.