19. Benedetto
CHAPTER NINETEEN
BENEDETTO
Golden sunlight flooded the room, bathing the room in warmth. I lay awake, enjoying the weight of Luna's body curled against my side. Her soft auburn hair cascaded across my chest, her fair skin glowing in the morning light.
It had been a week since the duel, and this was the first time she hadn't slipped away in the night after we fucked. The realization stirred something in me, both hopeful and terrifying. Maybe this woman could stay by me. She'd seen me at my worst, and she hadn't run. Nor did she try to manipulate me or involve me in schemes.
She said what she wanted and had kept her promises thus far. A flicker of admiration mixed with the slow burn of desire that never seemed to fade when she was near.
A flicker of motion caught my eye, and my dagger was out from under the pillow and waiting. Pip hopped onto the bed just short of the thin blade, nuzzling Luna's cheek before giving my knife hand a playful nip.
“Keep that up and I’ll have dragon skin gloves,” I muttered.
Pip shook its wings and crawled over the top of the pillows to snuggle into Luna’s back.
I watched with mild amusement as the drake stretched its neck to rest its head on a few locks of Luna’s hair.
It liked her. And we’d come to tolerate each other. An improvement.
Luna stirred, opening her cloud gray eyes with a sleepy smile, stretching languidly. "Good morning."
I brushed a strand of fiery hair from her face. "Morning. Your Pip is making itself known again."
"He's just trying to win you over," Luna said with a teasing grin. "You're a tough nut to crack."
She sat up, gloriously naked. We both enjoyed me ripping her clothing off, and Luna had worn the same neatly mended nightgown to bed the past few nights.
I pulled her in for a kiss. "Stay in bed."
She raised an eyebrow but complied, the sheets pooling around her waist.
I rose and dressed. Luna’s appreciative gaze on me as she enjoyed the view made me prolong the process.
Clothed, I opened the door and said to the waiting maid, "Fetch some clothing for my wife."
Luna smiled at me. “A dangerous quest.”
“One deserving of a reward,” I answered, and kissed her.
A sharp knock interrupted our moment. I tugged the sheet up on Luna’s exposed chest and called, "Enter," expecting the servant with Luna's garments and our breakfast.
Instead, a young footman nervously bowed from the open door, his entire attention fixed on his boots—and decidedly not on my wife—as he held out a sealed letter. "A message from the Imperial Palace, my lord. The courier said he’d await a reply."
I broke the seal.
The emperor requested our presence for a midday meal. Of course. My good mood evaporated. Trouble was brewing. I just hoped this had nothing in specific to do with Mother's politicking.
"Tell the courier we'll be there.” He backed out and the maid bearing Luna’s garments passed him, flicking a glance at me.
Luna smiled at the maid and rose. "I suppose that means our lunch is rescheduled. I'll leave Pip at home."
Pip let out a small hiss, clearly displeased.
A wry smile tugged at my lips. "Good luck convincing him. He's as stubborn as you are."
I left the room to give Luna privacy as she dressed. When she left, I inspected the wardrobe, pulling out an outfit of Lorenzo’s formal attire altered to fit me.
A deep blue jacket with silver embroidery, tailored trousers, and a crisp white shirt. More color than I preferred to wear, but I wasn’t going to decline the favor. I dressed quickly, movements tense.
What was the emperor up to with this?
Catching my reflection in the mirror, I looked like a man ready for battle. That's exactly what this was, a battle, just without swords.
I smoothed down my jacket, trying to shift my hardened expression to something closer to calm. I hated this. I'd rather duel ten men than walk into that palace and play politics with the emperor. Even if he was as decent a man as he could be, power politics made me want to kill something.
As I adjusted my sleeve laces, Pip flitted into the room, landing lightly on the desk. It watched me with sharp, intelligent eyes, head tilted as if assessing my agitation.
"What?" I gave the creature a half-hearted glare. "Don't look at me like that. You’re simply a slightly more intelligent cat."
Pip hissed softly, then nudged a small object toward me, a throwing knife I hadn't even noticed I'd left unconcealed. I picked it up, staring at it for a moment before hiding it up my sleeve.
Even Pip knew when I was too distracted.
At least one of us, even if not one who thought like a human, was paying attention.
I strode through the villa toward the main doors. Servants scurried out of my path, sensing my dark mood. I barely noticed them, my mind running over strategies to deal with the impending lunch and make sure Luna and I left unharmed politically or physically.
I emerged into the sun-drenched foyer, blinking against the bright light. Luna already stood by the sedan chair and the servants ready to carry it, a vision of understated elegance. Her auburn hair was pinned up, a few loose strands framing her face. The silver filigree in her earrings caught the sun, glinting like stars against her fair skin.
I paused, drinking in the sight of her. Like sweet water on a parching day.
Luna turned. A small smile played on her lips. "Ready to face the lions?"
I snorted, shaking my head. "Not lions, vipers. Be careful."
She tilted her chin up, a defiant gleam in her eye. "I'm not afraid of lions. Or emperors, for that matter."
She should be. A rush of admiration mixed with the ever-present desire. Like me, she was a fighter, even when it wasn’t the best plan.
Kalion was too crowded to use a carriage, so sedan chairs were the compromise used by the nobility. They took less space and left less manure.
Luna settled herself on the seat, her movements graceful and assured. Pip swooped down, settling on her shoulder with a contented chirp. Clearly, he had won the battle of who was staying home.
"Let's go." I joined her. "Time to see what the old man wants. "We were lifted smoothly, and the four trained men began the trek to the palace.
"You took your time," Luna peeked out the curtains to watch the other travelers as we entered the bustling streets of Kalion. "Are you nervous to meet the emperor with me?"
I snorted, glancing at her with a raised eyebrow. "No, you'll probably do a better job dealing with the talk," I said. "I'm not exactly known for my tact."
She laughed, a light, genuine sound that made something in my chest tighten. "Thank you for the compliment."
Pip chirped and leaned into Luna’s side as we moved through the buzzing streets of Kalion. The scent of freshly baked bread mingled with exotic spices wafting from the markets. Vendors yelled thief! while skinny children darted away through the alleys, heading for the concealing shadows.
I put my arm around her, and Pip moved, grumbling. My gaze swept over the sea of faces. My enemies could be hiding anywhere. Glancing back at Luna, I realized she too was watching and noting faces, as wary as I. A sense of comradeship welled inside me, one I hadn't felt in all the lonely years since my brother was driven mad.
I’d never wanted a wife. Luna took the role of wife and twisted and changed it until she became an equal. And I liked it.
"You seem lost in thought." Luna leaned into me. "Care to share?"
I raised an eyebrow, lips twitching. "Since when do you care what's on my mind?"
"Since you started looking like a man chewing on a lemon and about to drink vinegar," she said. "What do you think this summons is about?"
I hesitated, then sighed heavily. "Vala. Mother. She's building a political faction in my name, behind my back. The emperor either found out or knew from the beginning, and now I'm being dragged into a pointless game I don’t want to play."
Luna's face softened. She reached out, resting a hand on my arm. "We'll handle this together, then get back to tracking down Moonshifter."
Perhaps that was what I'd been needing all this time. A true partner, someone to stand with me through the battles to come.
"After we hear what his Imperial Majesty has to say." I brushed my lips against her temple. "And find out what precisely my dear mother has been plotting."
As if sensing the tension, Pip swooped down to land on Luna's shoulder, opalescent scales glinting in the sun. She absently stroked his sleek neck, lost in thought.
The streets were packed, as usual, and the pace of our journey incredibly slow. The de Metteil home was on the outskirts of the fashionable district as well, at some distance from the hill where the palace was located.
After an hour, the palace loomed before us, a grand marble edifice glinting under the midday sun. The Volonta River sparkled in the distance, deceptively serene. With each step closer, the bustling sounds of the city softened, replaced by the whispers of leaves and plants, courtesy of spells laid down to deaden the noise.
I turned to Luna as we approached the gates, my expression grim. "Once we're inside, mind your words carefully. The emperor excels at finding hidden meanings, even in something as simple as ‘good morning’."
She winked at me. "Don't fret about me; I’ve dealt with your mother for years. Just try not to look like murder."
She had a point. I grimaced, and then settled my expression to stillness.
The palace gates swung open at our approach. A pair of guards in crisp uniforms snapped to attention.
I descended from the sedan chair, then turned to help Luna out. She slid into my arms with effortless grace, her nearness sending a jolt through me. For a fleeting instant, the world narrowed to just us two.
Then she stepped away, smoothing her skirts, and the moment shattered. I shook off the distraction, turning to face the palace doors with squared shoulders.
The guards ushering us through with practiced efficiency. The servants and chair settled into wait.
Pip shifted uneasily on Luna's shoulder, beady eyes darting.
Every visit to this place was like visiting a gorgeous and deadly museum. The place was littered with magics old and new, rooms that unveiled themselves to new visitors, and deadly courtiers awaiting their chance for promotion. And today, the stakes were higher than ever.
Luna reached up, trying to coax Pip to wait outside, but the creature just clung tightly to her hair, letting out an indignant hiss. She sighed, relenting. "Fine, you can come. But you'd better behave."
I couldn't help but snort. "Not sure which one of us you're instructing there."
She shot me a wry look. "Both. Definitely both."
A quiet servant bowed to us and gestured for us to follow. Step by step, we made our way down the cavernous main hall, our footfalls echoing softly off the gleaming marble floor. Everywhere I looked, wealth and power were on elegant or gaudy display. Intricate tapestries, gleaming statues, long halls.
I loved and hated to visit it. It was a wonder and a prison for the one who ruled, and I was smart enough to know it.
At last we reached the receiving room. Before the door opened, I knew its contents, a fountain that jetted fire in ever changing colors that shed no heat. It was a lovely creation, one of the wonders of the palace, that had been there since the first emperor, Reaver the sorcerer.
A few chairs and divans would be scattered through the room.
The old man was going to an effort to make us comfortable. I pasted a smile on my face and beside me, Luna lifted her chin, somehow looking both demure and defiant.
Into the maw of the beast we go. Absent gods keep us, the mother's arms shield us, and may the all-seeing Sun have mercy.
Then the doors swung open, and together we stepped across the threshold to meet with the waiting emperor.
The fountain was as gorgeous as all the stories said, an unparalleled creation of ancient times.
Above, there were soaring ceilings adorned by intricate mosaics depicting the empire's bloody history. Seated on a long divan, the emperor Bartolomeo himself, tracking our every move. Wiry and nearly bald, draped in rich silks, he looked both frail and formidable.
Perched on a stool beside him sat Alexis Cosmelis, one of his chief vipers—others called them advisors. The old schemer was studying Luna with chilly interest, like a snake sizing up a rodent. I had to suppress a surge of anger.
She’s mine, and not to be made a pawn in your games, you bastard.
"Ah, Benedetto," the emperor said, his papery lips stretching into a thin smile. "And your lovely wife. It’s good to see you. Sit, please."
I bowed stiffly, taking my seat next to Luna as Pip settled on the back of the long low couch. "We’re honored by your notice, sire."
The emperor snorted, amusement in those cold hazel eyes. “And would rather not be honored in the future. You need to work on concealing your emotions if you’re going to wear the wreath.”
Ah, it was going to be informal. I could do informal. “What are you talking about?”
"Tell me," Emperor Bartolomeo said conversationally, steepling his ring studded bony fingers. "What is your stance on your current position within the line of succession?"
I blinked, caught off guard. "I don’t want it."
The emperor let out a dry, humorless chuckle. "Fair enough. Regardless of your preference, you’re either second or third in line now, depending on how you view your cousin Vivaldo's claim."
Second or third? The words hit me like a punch to the gut. I'd known I’d risen in the succession, but... Dead gods reanimated, I did not want this wizened old man's wrath or throne. What game was he playing?
I schooled my features into careful neutrality, even as my mind raced. Beside me, Luna shifted almost imperceptibly, her hand brushing mine. The brief touch steadied me.
I met the emperor's piercing gaze head on. "I'm afraid I still fail to grasp your meaning, Your Majesty. My loyalty is to the empire, not any personal ambitions."
"As it should be," Emperor Bartolomeo said mildly. But I didn't miss the way his eyes narrowed fractionally. "Still, one must consider possible eventualities. And plan accordingly. Wouldn't you agree?"
You scheming old spider, what web are you trying to trap me in? I wanted to snap. But I simply inclined my head. "Of course, Your Majesty. Though I pray such plans remain in the far future."
The emperor's smile was more of a grimace. "As do we all. But the wise man prepares for every path. Especially wedded to a lovely woman of impeccable bloodlines." He waved a hand languidly. "Such children you and she will make, Benedetto. They’ll inherit the imperial bloodline from both sides."
My thoughts whirled. Why summon me here for that cryptic warning? Was he threatening us or wanting us to produce children quickly?
I glanced at Luna. Her face betrayed nothing, but I sensed her unease.
This was a dangerous game we'd been thrust into. And something told me it was only the opening move. We had to tread carefully.
And I had to make some decisions. The emperor had all but said that our child would be a target of rivals to the throne if I didn’t take his throne when he died.
“But enough of that,” said Alexis Cosmelis. “I’ve heard that you plan to travel soon. Let me tell you about the last time I traveled to the Jesnani lands…” he launched into a drily funny tale that had Luna laughing.
For me, there was nothing to do but smile, nod, and try to navigate a way out of the trap we were in. The battle had begun.
When the story ended, Emperor Bartolomeo smiled at Luna, the sound of her laughter still lingering in the room. “I am sad to have not seen you before. Please, come to a small supper I’m hosting tomorrow with your husband.”
Luna’s eyes widened, and she whispered, “You honor us, Sire.”
“It’s nothing.” He waved a hand. “Off with you. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow.”
The ride back to the villa passed in tense silence. As we stepped out of the chair into the courtyard, I turned to Luna. "I need to look into some things. Alone."
After a moment, she nodded. "I understand. Just..." She hesitated. "Be careful. Please."
I kissed her hand. "Always." The word tasted like a lie even as I said it.
Once I saw her inside the villa, I left and made straight for gathering places where I could find various acquaintances and allies at this time of day. They’d all heard about the summons of course. As I spoke with them, a picture emerged I didn't like.
Whispers of private dinners, carefully worded promises, a web of influence spreading through the capital. Many proxies were used, but at the end of the day, all of it traced back to one person. Vala d'Alvarez. My mother.
Damn her. Containing my worry and anger, I made my way back to the villa.
Pacing the study, I slammed my fist on the desk, making the inkwell jump. Didn't she realize what she was doing?
But even as the thought formed, I knew the answer. Of course she realized. This was no impulsive scheme. It was a calculated play, years in the making. And I was the pawn she'd chosen to bet on.
Well, this pawn had his own agenda. I straightened, my jaw clenched. Luna found me like that, staring out into the twilight, my knuckles white against the windowsill. "Benedetto? What did you find out?"
I let out a harsh laugh. "That my mother is a serpent in silk skirts. And that I'm an idiot for not seeing what she was up to sooner."
Luna came to stand beside me, Pip swooping over to perch on my shoulder. "You're not an idiot," she said firmly. "Vala’s been plotting longer than either of us has been alive. She’s moved faster than we realized, is all."
I glanced at her, surprised. It was a kinder assessment than I deserved. "You give me too much credit."
"And you don't give yourself enough." She found my hand, her slim fingers interlacing with my calloused ones. "First we find Moonshifter and heal that wound for you. Then worry about the rest."
I looked down at our joined hands, a strange pang in my chest. "Mother's built a faction for me, without my knowledge. Knowing her, she's been pulling strings to see my rivals dead, too. If the other potential heirs convince the emperor this is a threat to him personally..."
"Then we die," Luna finished. Her auburn hair glowed in the candlelight. "We can't leave. Not yet, not until this is under control."
Frustration boiled inside me. "Dead gods smite her."
Luna's eyes widened at the profanity, then she laughed. "Most people wouldn't be angry at someone trying to put them on the throne."
"I'm not most people. It's a hard seat, and she plans for me to be her puppet. She needs to learn the meaning of ‘no’ when other people say it."