Chapter 31
R yn's tour of my new home was surprisingly anticlimactic. Though I'd worried over resisting the magnetic pull between us, he kept his word, never pushing beyond the boundaries I set for us. He let me set the pace without a single complaint. When I permitted him to hold my hand, it seemed to quiet the insistent tug of the thread between us, though my body hummed with an aching need for more.
Day after day, I spent time with Ryn, who—much to my chagrin—discovered my complete lack of directional sense. If my perpetual confusion frustrated him, his patient smile never wavered as he guided me through the same corridors until he was reasonably sure I wouldn't lose my way. When I wasn't with Oryn, I was either being paraded around by the king and queen like their prized pet, or finding refuge in Luella's companionship.
Each morning, Ryn escorted us to the library, a ritual I found myself cherishing despite myself. He insisted it was to give Magnus a break, though I knew full well he had arranged for someone else to take the night watch.
The prince had found his loophole—satisfying our bond through these careful moments of proximity. Each second without him became an eternity, and I found myself counting breaths until our next meeting, even as I fought against the longing. The mate bond thrummed beneath my skin like a living thing, each moment of resistance leaving me physically drained and emotionally raw.
At night I snuck out of my room, finding it easier without Magnus' hawk-like senses. In the quiet dark, I skulked around the castle. All traces of Johan had vanished since that day in the throne room. Moving around undetected became easier after I snuck out to the bookshop to retrieve my knives, leathers, and boots. The cool leather against my skin and the familiar weight of my blades at my hips felt like coming home.
I sent what information I could to Vanya, but it seemed standard for a king trying to expand his territory. Army movements here, terrible assassination ideas there. None of which seemed to yield the desired result. Sunneva continued decimating towns on the edge of Esmeray, leaving no room for doubt on how powerful the Sunnevan army was. The king, however, seemed on edge, erupting at a moment's notice at Davian's jokes or lecturing Oryn about seizing his destiny. His eyes, once steady and calculating, now darted about the room as if searching for unseen threats. His fingers drummed incessantly on the arm of his throne, a constant staccato of unease.
Today, Ryn came to fetch me before lunch, a wild grin on his face. "My lady," he held out a hand for me as I stepped through my doorway. "I was hoping you'd be up for a little adventure today."
"A prince after my own heart," I mused. "Do we have time for an adventure when the ball is tonight?"
"I promise we'll be back in time." Ryn led us out of the castle grounds to the stable within the main walls. A young man brought a tall white horse out to Oryn, who accepted it with a smile. He steadied his steed as I climbed into the saddle. He slid in behind me, his muscular thighs pressing against mine. We rode as if being chased, and I couldn't help but smile and laugh with glee as he guided us through the town streets towards the city gates. The wind whipped through my dark hair, making me long for my own handsome steed. Though the updates from the stable were positive, I still worried and longed to ride him. Miss Gregoria packed my schedule day after day, leaving me barely able to continue my correspondence with Vanya. Sending useful information without being obvious had become increasingly difficult, and I had no doubt the head of household scrutinized all my letters. The walls of the palace now felt like a gilded cage, suffocating my freedom and purpose.
As we neared the main gates, Ryn steered us left, heading towards the stables. There, Raven stood tall, his eyes locked on me, hooves stomping the hard ground. Dust swirled around him and the poor stable hand struggling to maintain his calm and hold onto the reins.
"Raven!" Waiting for Oryn to dismount felt like torture. I didn't miss the feel of his hands on my waist as I swung my leg over the saddle and jumped to the ground. His horse was large, but Raven towered over it like a king. I threw my arms around the warhorse, cooing over his handsomeness and how much I'd missed him. He didn't seem to have the heart to punish me, nuzzling me with his nose and sniffing my pockets for treats. In that moment, I felt awful. I'd always brought him treats. Had I known I'd see him today, I would've brought a stash.
Oryn cleared his throat and nudged my arm behind me, placing some treats in my hands. I beamed at him.
"Thank you." I could almost feel my eyes watering as I turned back to hold my offerings out to Raven, who took them greedily.
"I've been curious about him ever since Davian mentioned him." Ryn gave his own horse a handful of food before coming to greet Raven. The warhorse eyed him warily, sizing him up with his head held high. After a few beats, he let out a snort and pushed at the prince's pocket where the treats had originated. "I think he likes me." Ryn laughed as Raven accepted a treat from his hand. He patted the steed's neck, looking over his expansive back.
"Hard not to when you bring such yummy treats." I couldn't keep my eyes off my horse. "I've missed you," I said to him, receiving a low whinny in response. I looked over to Oryn, "Do we have time for a ride?"
"I was hoping you'd say that." He summoned the stable hand to fetch my saddle. "I thought it might be good to bring him home with us. That way, you can see him every day and be able to ride him more. And if Miss Gregoria has you too busy, Davian or I can sneak out and feed him treats on your behalf."
He flashed me that gorgeous smile of his, and I lit up with happiness. I threw my arms around his neck, his arms sliding around my waist to press me against him. Before I could think better of it, I planted my lips on his. What started as more of a peck turned into him claiming my mouth. His hand came up to twist into my hair, deepening our kiss.
"I'll do whatever I can to make you smile like you just did, Lor. No matter what, you are more than duty to me. You are everything."
I kissed him again, unable to resist. I allowed myself to enjoy this moment, this wonderfully happy moment, at least until reality came crashing down. Because I would find Johan, and I would kill him. When Oryn realized what I'd done, I was sure he'd wish he'd never crossed paths with me.
You don't understand what a man in love will do, Alora. Not everything is so black and white.
Goody, mind Ma?l was in one of his know-it-all moods. Most people are not so accepting of my occupation. I wouldn't be surprised if I was on a wanted list here.
Oh, you most definitely are , he let out a short laugh, but that doesn't mean he'd be so quick to send you to the dungeon. Take it from someone who knows, you're a hard girl to walk away from. His voice softened, a hint of longing creeping in. Trust me, Lor. I've tried.
It's no surprise Raven and I left Oryn and his horse in the dust as we took off for a friendly race. By the time he matched our pace, he was grumbling about cheating. I didn't tell him Raven's origins. I just laughed and said my mount must've had some pent up energy to burn off.
Oryn escorted me back to my rooms, leaving me to prepare for our ball. Never in my life did I imagine attending my own ball, being paraded as the king's prized future daughter-in-law. Though Oryn might see me as a person, the king saw only his ticket to victory, a weapon to wield. He didn't even know what that power truly meant.
The image of the blindingly white flames flashed across my mind. I imagined them licking up the very walls of this golden palace. Could they obliterate it like they did the cottages? Would the castle still crumble to ash? Somehow, I knew nothing in this realm could withstand my fire. A shiver ran its way down my spine as I recalled the experience. My question would go unanswered. Never again would I dare call upon that power. I'll stick to my shadows—at least there, I know what lurks in the dark.
A knock sounded at the door made me turn when Magnus held it open for a delighted Luella, who skipped in, another gorgeous gown in her arms. "We need to get you ready, Prince Oryn will be here any minute to escort you." She was more excited than I was for the ball.
"Will you be attending?" I let her help me slide the gorgeous, silky fabric over my head. She led me to the vanity to paint my face and sort my dark hair into something presentable.
"And risk the wrath of Miss Gregoria? I'll have to live vicariously through your stories later and what I happen to see as I'm ordered around."
"How about we trade places? I can hide in here and you can pretend to be me and dance the night away." I chuckled, knowing I would happily stay in my room.
"I think Prince Oryn would notice you weren't you." She shook her head at me as she took a comb to my hair, coaxing it into waves that fell down my shoulders. The pieces near my face she braided into a crown that curled on top of my head. Little glittering gems were added between the plaits. "Besides, all eyes will be on you tonight. It will be wonderful!" She beamed as she assessed her work.
The thought of all those eyes on me made my stomach churn.
During our return, Oryn spoke of his closest friend's impending return. His longest companion, who'd fought alongside him during his father's missions. Apparently, this was the friend he had met when I thought he'd abandoned me at the tavern. Oryn explained his friend hadn't been celebrating the night prior—he'd been investigating something.
A flutter of anxiety rippled through my chest. Not only would I have to face the entire court tonight, but now I'd have to meet Oryn's dearest friend. Someone whose opinion of me would matter deeply to my mate, whether I wanted it to or not.
I glanced at myself in the mirror, unable to recognize the woman before me. Luella had dressed me in a silver dress, so light it was almost white. Two glittering straps held it up and plunged down my back, not meeting the remainder of the fabric until just above my rear. The silk felt cool on my skin, showing a hint of my peaked nipples. Luella had gone a bit dramatic with my makeup, dark kohl lined my violet eyes, making the strange color stand out. My cheeks held a hint of pink in just the right spots and my lips were painted a sultry red.
"You're an artist," I murmured, my hand barely grazing my cheek as I stared in wonder.
"Oh, hush," Luella chided. A knock at the door alerted us it was time. Luella rushed to the door with a squeak and opened it, revealing my handsome mate on the other side. He was dressed in a black coat, adorned with a shiny sun pin. A golden crown rested upon his unbound blonde hair. His eyes traveled from the ground to my face, drinking me in.
He gazed at me as though he loved me, and it made my heart both soar and shatter, each beat a war between hope and harsh reality. I had to remind myself the only reason I was in this situation was because his father thought our marriage will bring him a victory in this dreadful war. Did Oryn view this the same? Our mate bond was happenstance, something that wasn't accounted for and wouldn't have mattered. Our union was the key.
He seemed to find his words as he walked to me, his hands grazing my bare arms. "You look amazing." He placed a kiss on my cheek, then traveled behind my ear, humming as he trailed his nose along my neck. The intimacy of his breath on my skin peppered me with goosebumps. "Ready?" His eyes found mine as he held out a hand to me. I placed mine in his awaiting palm and smiled.
"Please don't leave my side tonight." I begged as we left my rooms and headed down the hallway.
"I wouldn't dream of it, Love." He assured me. Magnus trailed behind us quietly. I was hoping you'd want to stay by my side after the ball as well.
You mean stay the night?
He nodded at my perplexed look. Only if you want. You're under no obligation to do so, Lor. I won't force you.
I would very much like to spend the night with him again if it was like the tavern. Every moment we had spent I had found myself wishing for his touch all over my body, my body demanding to writhe beneath him.
I'll consider it. I gave him a sly smile and squeezed his arm with my hand reassuringly.
He grinned, eyeing me all over again. I suppressed a groan at how he was undressing me with his eyes. This dress would likely not last the night.
Upon reaching the ballroom, we were announced by name and cheers erupted. Oryn and I led the first dance, and I was surprised by how much I was enjoying twirling in his arms. We enjoyed a few more songs before we joined his family at the head table set up on the dais. Beside Oryn's smaller throne, another seat was placed for me. I was thankful he was a buffer between the king and me. The king had not held back his glee for the match and excitement for the prophecy to come to pass upon our wedding day, his calculating eyes gleaming with barely concealed triumph as he watched us. I caught Oryn roll his eyes at his father's words.
Everyone found a seat at the surrounding tables and the grand feast began. Davian came over to me, insisting I try all of his favorites. His older brother tried to shoo him away but the young man dismissed the attempts, telling him I was his friend first. Oryn grumbled his annoyances as he continued to eat, the corner of his mouth lifting up in amusement. Davian finally left me to the rest of my food after I told him each item he'd chosen was absolutely delicious. I could hear him relay his triumph to his mother at the other end of the table, pride swelling in his chest. The Queen always had so few words to share, but her ears belonged to her youngest son.
This constant battle over your attention is getting a bit tiring, just tell Davian I'm your favorite, Oryn chuckled in my mind as I tried not to spit my food out.
Who said you're my favorite?
A deep growl rumbled down the bond. It sure seemed like I was when my tongue was between those delicious thighs.
The room suddenly felt warm, my thoughts flashing back to the night we spent together. Oblivious at the time of our bond that had solidified. The way he kissed me, touched me, a never-ending montage of heat.
You're ridiculous for being in a competition with him. He's your little brother.
And yet, I still feel jealous when he's trying to sit beside you or has your attention. My place is at your side.
I thought it was my place by your side. A quiet little wife for the prince to sit pretty upon the throne.
I'm not that kind of male, Lor, though I was only teasing, his voice was stern, we'd be equals, rule side by side. And I much prefer you not be quiet. Especially when you start making those delightful little noises...
I'm starting to think this bond is cursing you with lunacy.
If it is, I'll gladly live the rest of my life cursed under your enthrall. I can't help but be obsessed with you.
Oryn set his fork down as a tall, dark-haired fae male approached. The male wore a formal black tunic that melded with his dark leather pants.
"Kyler!" Oryn leapt from his seat with a grin, meeting him at the steps.
They clasped arms, and I took in the newcomer's presence. A sword hung at his hip, completing his dark ensemble.
"I hope I'm not too late," his deep voice reached me, stirring an inexplicable sense of familiarity. He sounded like I'd imagined every male lead in my favorite books. That must be it. I studied him, searching my memory for any previous encounter. Surely I would remember him if I had. Across the room, I caught Ingrid's cold gaze. Her eyes flicked between Oryn and Kyler then narrowed again as she met my stare.
Oryn guided him behind the table, and I rose to greet them.
"Kyler, meet Alora, my future queen." Gods, Oryn's voice swelled with such pride, as though I were his long-awaited salvation rather than his father's prophesied tool.
"It's nice to meet you, Lady Alora." Kyler bowed, and I answered with a graceful curtsy.
"A pleasure." As our eyes met, something snapped taut within me like a bowstring drawn too tight. His deep brown eyes widened as if he felt it too. The wine from my private drinking game - taking a sip every time the king mentioned the prophecy - was hitting harder than expected. I fought to keep my balance, determined not to appear like some swooning court lady.
"The pleasure's all mine," Kyler's voice cut through the haze like a blade. The boys fell into conversation, and heat crept up my neck.
"Excuse me," I murmured, though Oryn was deep in conversation with Kyler. His attention snapped to me instantly, his arm snaking around my waist.
"Are you okay?" He whispered against my ear.
I waved him off like swatting away a persistent fly. "Just need a little fresh air. I don't want to pull you away from your friend. I'll be back, I promise."
He nodded at Magnus, who stood vigilant near the dais. "Don't stray too far, Love." His grip loosened, and I felt his gaze follow me as I carefully descended the dais and slipped through the balcony doors. The night air hit my face, and clarity slowly returned.
"Everything alright, my lady?" Magnus stepped just behind me, his face etched with concern.
"I'm fine, it was just suffocating in there." I moved to the railing, pressing my palms against the cool marble. Below, the gardens sprawled out in moonlit splendor. Voices drifted up from below, drawing my attention. Two figures stood in conference - one I recognized as the king, whose absence from the ball I'd barely noticed, too busy drinking through his prophecy speeches. The other lurked in shadow, features obscured.
"Just get it done." The king's command cut through the night before he stalked away, likely heading back before his absence was noted.
His conspirator emerged from the shadows, making his way through the garden. As he turned, his profile caught the moonlight, and my world tilted on its axis like a ship in a storm. The king's secret meeting wasn't with just anyone - it was with Johan. The implications of this discovery sent ice through my veins.