Chapter 58
58
Selena
T he marketplace buzzed with energy, its labyrinth of stalls and chatter providing a stark contrast to the roars from the nearby arena. The occasional cheer or gasp carried over, a reminder of the ongoing Mating Games, but here in the market, the energy was different—more vibrant, more chaotic.
The hum of voices mingled with the sharp calls of vendors, each offering products both foreign and familiar. The air was thick with the mingling scents of roasted meats, spiced fruits, sweet treats, and the tangy salt of the sea breeze rolling in from the shoreline.
I was surprised at how busy the market was, despite how packed the arena currently was… The sheer volume of people was a testament to the importance of the Harvest Festival, perhaps even magnified by the presence of my clan and the fact that I was the first Beacon they’ve had in generations.
Zyxel’s arm was steady beneath mine as we walked, his pace matching mine perfectly despite the crowd and his long tail. I kept sneaking glances at him, the movement so subtle I hoped he didn’t notice. His gaze rarely strayed from me, his attention unwavering as he gently guided us through the throng of people.
I still couldn’t believe how much he resembled Kaede.
From the waist up, their broad shoulders and sculpted torsos could have been carved from the same stone. Their long, dark hair, framed by curved horns, and sharp, angular faces completed their striking image.
But where Kaede exuded untouchable confidence and danger, Zyxel was different. His presence was calming, yet a quiet intensity radiated from him—a lingering edge of barely contained lethality, ready to strike with precision if provoked.
He was more like my princes, Z’fir and V’dim—soft-spoken but deadly when spurred. That contrast had been glaringly obvious during their fight in the arena, yet I’d been too consumed with nerves to appreciate it fully.
“Is there something you’d like to do?” Zyxel asked, his warm voice was low and gentle. “We can do anything you want. I have no preference, as long its beside you.”
I hesitated, feeling the weight of his sincerity. “Masmi told me about a local salt cave spa,” I said, keeping my tone casual. “It sounded... unique. It’s not something we have on Destima, and I thought maybe—”
He stopped mid-slither, turning toward me. “If that’s what you desire, we should go,” he said firmly. “I was serious when I said anywhere you want, Selena. I’m just grateful to finally be able to spend time with you, alone.”
There was something about the way he said those words, the way his tone held no expectation or pressure. It was simply innocent—wanting to give me a chance to do something I wanted without the pressures of being a mother, or the Beacon.
Regardless of how the two of us got here—through my duty to the empire—he wanted to have us make the best of our time together.
My cheeks warmed, the telltale tingling spreading to my spots, which were no doubt shifting hues. I caught the edge of pink and green on the back of my hand before his thumb brushed over it, his touch slow and deliberate.
“What do your spots mean?” he asked, his voice dipping with curiosity. “I’ve noticed they change quite often.”
I bit my bottom lip, both flustered and entertained by his curious observation. “Maybe I’ll tell you another time,” I teased, a small smirk curling my lips. “For now, you’ll have to figure it out on your own.”
His grin was devastating, a mix of charm and genuine amusement. “Then I’ll enjoy trying.”
“He’s trying hard, isn’t he?” Z’fir pathed, his amusement palpable.
“Whatever he’s doing, you’re starting to enjoy yourself,” V’dim added, his telepathic presence warm and reassuring. “We were worried you may resist trying to enjoy yourself, worried about us and Kaede, and wishing one—or all of us—were with you.”
I rolled my eyes, though my lips twitched with a smile. “While I appreciate you checking in with me, I don’t need your teasing commentary.”
I led Zyxel through the winding stalls, guiding us toward the plateau where the salt cave spa was nestled at its base. The main road opened before us, wide and welcoming, beneath the water aqueduct, lined with colorful banners that fluttered lazily in the warm breeze.
“We’re only making sure you know we’re not upset,” Z’fir said softly, his tone void of any mischief. “We want you to enjoy this. Truly.”
“Zyxel deserves a chance to be heard,” V’dim added, his voice soothing. “Don’t worry about us. We’re going to spend the day with the cubs—and Kaede, if he ever calms down. We’ll keep the nestbed warm for when you return.”
Placing a hand on my chest, a surge of affection bloomed within me, thrumming from my princes through our bonds. Their support wrapped around me like a comforting embrace, steadying me as I decided to take their advice.
Zyxel had proven himself, and they were right—he deserved to be heard. And I... I deserved to enjoy this and explore whatever was blossoming between us.
Zyxel’s presence at my side was steady, his arm brushing mine occasionally as we walked. “Have you ever been to a spa like the one we’re going to?”
“Never had the luxury,” he admitted, shaking his head. “Most of my life, I was by my commanders’ side. The closest thing we had were the mud pools on the jungle planet where our original sanctuary was before we had to relocate to the asteroid.”
“That sounds...” I paused, choosing my words carefully, not sure if the mud pools were something pleasant or dangerous. “Interesting.”
He chuckled, his voice low and warm. “It was more survival than luxury. It added nutrients to our scales and skin, even though it smelled… quite unpleasant. This, though”—he gestured to the elegant path ahead, lined with colorful shade sails and lush greenery—“this is something entirely different.”
“Then we’ll both enjoy it in peace,” I said, smiling despite myself. After the chaos of the games, the idea of quiet relaxation sounded heavenly. “And hopefully, it doesn’t smell bad.”
“Even if it did, I would enjoy being there with you.”
Shaking my head, I rolled my eyes at his remark. I was used to such comments from my mates, but from him? I couldn’t say that I hated it.
We stopped briefly at a vendor’s stall where the vibrant fruit drinks caught my eye. The Aldawi vendor, an older male with deep russet fur, immediately tried to offer it to me for free, bowing his head deeply in respect.
I refused, shaking my head. “You deserve to be paid for your work,” I said firmly, scanning my wristband against the stall’s payment device before he could protest further. “Just because I’m the Beacon doesn’t mean I should take from my people, especially when I can easily afford it.”
“Thank you, Beacon.” An older female with dark blue fur stepped behind him, placed a paw on her mate’s shoulder, and shot me a gentle smile, bowing her head slightly. “It’s an honor to serve you… and your winner.”
“May the Stars bless you.” I titled my head, and lifted my drink, wishing them a farewell.
Zyxel raised a brow ridge, but his amusement was clear as he accepted the drink I handed him. “You have a way of surprising people.”
“Fairness shouldn’t be a surprise.” I shrugged, taking a sip from my own drink. “Or kindness for that matter. The late Sovereign—and those before him—caused so much damage that I am hoping to mend, even if it takes much time… one interaction at a time.”
The fruity drink was cool in my hand, the condensation dripping down my wrist as we strolled through the winding paths of the market. It felt nice compared to the dry air. The sweet tang of the beverage lingered on my tongue, refreshing after the heat of the arena.
We continued on, the crowd thinning slightly as we approached the spa near the base of the plateau, with everyone gravitating near the market and the arena. The elegant entrance came into view, its curved archways carved directly into the sandstone. A purple beaded curtain hung, blocking the view, creating an elegant snes of privacy for its occupants.
Inside, the air was cooler, tinged with a faint mineral tang that tickled my nose. The gentle trickle of water echoed off the crystalline walls, from the makeshift waterfall that led to a gentle decorative pool. Soft, ambient music floated through the space, with the faint familiar sounds of cheering.
A group of female Aldawi workers greeted us, their fur meticulously groomed and their robes flowing gracefully as they moved. One of them, a petite female with golden streaks in her black fur, stepped forward, her tail flicking with excitement. “We saw the games on the vidscreen!” she exclaimed, motioning to the massive wall display over the drink dispenser. The screen still displayed highlights from the arena, the footage pausing briefly on a shot of Kaede mid-strike against Zyxel. “There were so many males fighting for a chance to impress a female. Even a few non-Aldawi!”
I froze, my cheeks warming. “It was... broadcasted?”
The elder Aldawi matriarch stepped forward, her fur a dignified silver and white. “Across the entire planet,” she confirmed with a nod. “Though I wouldn’t be surprised if citizens from across the empire tuned in to witness such an honorable event.”
Before I could respond, another female purred, her amber eyes locking onto Zyxel. “You put on quite the show, warrior. Too bad the Beacon’s mate backed out and stole your chance for an epic final battle.”
A low hiss escaped me before I could stop it, my instincts surging forward as I stepped between Zyxel and the female. “He’s mine,” I growled, my voice sharper than I intended. “And not available.”
The workers immediately lowered their heads, exposing their necks in submission. The amber-eyed female was the first to speak, her tone contrite. “We meant no offense, Beacon. We appreciate an honorable warrior. That’s all. I would never attempt to claim what’s yours.”
Zyxel’s hand rested lightly on my shoulder, his touch grounding. “Ryzen had good intentions, especially since she’s pregnant,” he said calmly, addressing the group. “The Beacon isn’t used to extended time in the sun and heat. That’s why we’re here—to relax and replenish her.”
The elder matriarch cleared her throat, her tone soothing. “Come, Beacon. We have the perfect suite for you—fit for royalty, designed for mated pairs.”
I swallowed hard, my earlier reaction simmering in my chest.
What had come over me? The female hadn’t done anything wrong, and yet my possessiveness surged at the thought of anyone else eying Zyxel. We weren’t even mated —and I didn’t know what we were currently doing was considered courting.
All of this was confusing…
“I apologize,” I said, turning to the amber-eyed worker. “I overreacted. That wasn’t fair to you.”
“There’s no need to apologize,” she replied, bowing her head once more. “Your male is clearly yours, Beacon. It was your right to strike your claim, especially after matching on the arena’s sands.”
“It’s okay, Selena,” Zyxel soothed, squeezing my shoulder. “No harm has been done—and we both know my eyes are only on you.”
“You haven’t been able to take your eyes off of her since you’ve passed through the beaded curtain,” the amber-eyed female commented, smirking at Zyxel. “Maybe our spa is just what you need…”
“Indeed. We have exactly what you two need.” The elder matriarch smiled, her expression kind. “Follow me.”
We moved deeper into the spa, the air growing cooler and tinged with salt as we descended into the caves. “You mustn’t worry, Beacon,” the matriarch said, her voice bouncing off of the hallway’s walls. “It’s the Aldawi way. No one should dare attempt to take another female’s mate, especially the Beacon’s, and during the Harvest Festival. I’m relieved you didn’t see it as a challenge and demand consequences.”
I shook my head, feeling a pang of guilt. “The empire has been without a Beacon for generations,” I said. “Having me as yours is far from traditional, but I will do my best to honor you all. But I know that it will take time for everyone to adjust.”
The matriarch gave me a knowing look but said nothing, leading us to a secluded suite with walls that shimmered, its salt crystals radiating soft, blue and green warm light. “Enjoy your time, Beacon,” she said with a bow before leaving us alone. “Take as long as you want. It’s our honor.”
The private suite was unlike anything I’d ever seen—much different from the Oetsae cave on Destima.
The dark walls gleamed with green and blue salt block crystals, their surfaces catching the soft, golden light of elegant fixtures. Everything had been styled in black and gold, creating a striking contrast against the cool tones of the salt. In the center of the room, a decorative waterfall fed into a large spa pool that shimmered invitingly, steam rising in lazy tendrils carrying the scent of minerals and salt.
A lush lounge bed, piled high with plush pillows, was set near two sleek massage chair-beds. Between them, an array of oils and lotions rested on a polished table. A rack of plush towels stood beside a small mini bar with an advanced drink dispenser built into it. The air was thick with humidity, heavy but not uncomfortable, already soothing my achy muscles.
A flameless fire lamp of green and blue hues radiated a gentle warmth beside the spa. Above, a vidscreen displayed the live feed from the arena fights, muted but captivating, a reminder of the chaos left behind.
I let out a soft breath of awe, my fingertips brushing over the smooth, cool salt crystals along the wall. Zyxel seemed equally stunned. His tail curled slightly as he took in the luxurious surroundings, his chest rising and falling with his steady breath.
“How do you get used to treatment like this?”
“It wasn’t easy at first,” I admitted, a small smile tugging at my lips. “But now... I’ve learned to appreciate everything my title has given me. It doesn’t mean I take it for granted.” My hand drifted to my stomach. “I like to think it’s the Fates’ way of asking for forgiveness for all I went through. Maybe their way of trying to balance the scales.”
He nodded slowly, concern laced his expression. “I’ve pieced together some things,” he said softly. “But... I hope one day, you’ll share more with me.”
A sad smile spread across my face. “Maybe. For now, I’m trying to live in the present, to prepare for the future. Thinking too much about the past... it doesn’t help. I’d rather focus on creating new, happy memories with the people I care about.”
“I understand,” he muttered. “I would like to do the same.”
Releasing his hand, I wandered further into the suite, my fingers skimming across the edges of the lounge bed, the polished bar, and the warm towels.
“Would you like another drink?” Zyxel asked, his tone light but tentative, as if he worried about overstepping. “Or would you rather, do whatever you do at a spa like this?”
I turned to see him placing his sling bag on one of the chairs, his movements deliberate and smooth. The simple act made me pause, my heart fluttering unexpectedly. He wasn’t as overtly lethal in his appearance as Kaede, but there was something about the quiet strength beneath his shy demeanor that made him... captivating.
“I’d love another,” I said, my voice softer than I intended. “Surprise me.”
He approached the drink dispenser, his hand brushing over the vidscreen as he carefully selected something. A pair of short glasses slid out, filled with a shimmering pink-to-purple liquid that sparkled like starlight. He turned, offering me one of the glasses.
Curious, I accepted, studying how the drink shimmered in the room’s dim lighting. “What is it?”
“Midnight Aurora,” he said. “I’ve noticed you like to match drinks with your mates or happy memories. I thought this one was fitting.” He hesitated for a moment before adding, “You’re the beauty in the darkness, Selena. The light that touches everyone’s life and changes it.”
Heat rushed to my face, my spots changing to pink— both undoubtedly betraying me. “That’s... a little much,” I muttered, lifting the glass to my lips to hide the blush.
He lowered his own glass, a pointed look in his amber slitted eyes. “It’s the truth.”