Bonded By Intrigue (The Fae King Duology #2)

1. Emilia

Chapter 1

Emilia

“ D on’t step on that!”

I started out thinking this day would be a lovely little walk through the woods, but it has turned into me tripping over a giant rock, nearly touching a snake, and now falling face-first into a puddle.

I scream, throwing my hands out to stop my entire face from hitting the brown, murky excuse for water in front of me. Unfortunately it doesn’t prevent both knees from hitting the dirt floor and the palms of my hands from hitting every possible twig on the ground. Thankfully it’s not hot out yet or else that would add another level of discomfort to this situation. The mornings are cool, which I am enjoying, and add in the soft breeze that ruffles the leaves here, I might even consider it too chilly.

“Emilia! Are you ok?” Milori runs up and kneels beside me, gently grabbing my elbow to help me stand up.

Muttering, I manage to get to my feet, dust the dirt from my cotton pants, and knock out the loose stone still embedded in my skin. “Fine. I guess I wasn’t looking where I was going.”

Milori smirks, giving me a once-over .

“Well, you’re not bleeding, so you should be fine.” I turn to look at his sea-green eyes and give him the best ‘I oughta kill you’ look I can muster. As usual, he just laughs and shakes his head at me. Looking back at the ground to see what nearly cost me my life, I find a cluster of mushrooms along the narrow path in the woods. Looking back at Milori, I exaggeratedly wave my arms at the harmless-looking mushrooms on the ground.

“THIS is what you tried to prevent me from stepping on? Really?”

“Sure, go ahead and trample on the sleeping mushrooms. The moment you break the skin, an odourless fume escapes them, knocking out everything within a metre of it. If I return to the palace with you all floppy, Timas will kill me, and I don’t mean just give me a little toss off the balcony. He will use his scary lightning power to knock the Fae right out of me.” He grunts. “ I can’t wait until you guys are bonded. He is insufferable right now.” A small smile pulls at my mouth. Timas has become even more protective than before, which I have to admit I really like. He shows me repeatedly how much he loves me, and I never feel like I can show him the same amount of devotion. That’s why I am in this damp wooded area at the crack of dawn, determined to find this rare flower. I hope this wasn’t a mistake.

“Come on, it’s not too far now. I think I’ll lead from here because the path gets a little bit more challenging.” Milori makes sure I’m stable before releasing my arm. He steps in front of me, leading us farther into the words. This trip is supposed to be a grand gesture of love for Timas. Our bonding ceremony is three days away, and I have wanted to get him something special that will show him how much I love him and how excited I am to spend my life with him. It wasn’t until Milori mentioned this rare flower that grows in the Glistening Woods that I finally found something that might show him how much he has changed my life.

“So, where is this flower again?” I watch carefully where my feet land as I follow the small dirt path that cuts through the trees. A small squirrel scurries across the path, weaving around all the stray branches like an expert, I’m jealous. The path is wide enough to walk on but it doesn’t seem like it’s used often with the underbrush so overgrown.

“It’s just up ahead. We will need to get off the main path and head a bit deeper into the woods to find it. It grows along a small brook that flows through the woods.” Milori steps off the path and into the dense woods. The trees nearly touch each other, so with every branch I duck, a new one is waiting to meet my face. The smell of the disturbed leaves on the ground makes me think of the wooded area behind the house I grew up in. The rich, earthy scent reminds me of the continuous growth and change of the forest. I take a deep breath, taking in the smell of the disturbed leaves and think about the wooded area near my old village. A flood of memories rush to my mind; I spent a lot of time playing in those woods.

A short walk from the main path, I hear the sound of flowing water. It is very faint at first, but the closer we get, the louder it becomes. Ducking under one more branch, a small babbling brook appears before us, in this dense woods a haven of peace surrounds us. Milori takes one short jump to the other side of the stream and points to a beautiful gold flower. Doing the same, I hop over and sneak around Milori to squat in front of the flower. Up close, you can see the silver veins that decorate the leaves; it has a slight shimmer, which seems otherworldly.

“You’re beautiful.” I whisper.

“Thank you!” Milori gushes. “But I don’t think Timas will appreciate your alluring comments.”

“Way to ruin the moment between me and this lovely creation,” I say while grabbing the dagger I have strapped to my waist to cut the bottom of the stem.

“I didn’t think a flower was such stiff competition.” Milori scoffs. Milori’s energetic and charming personality puts everyone at ease, always making them feel safe in his presence. He’s Timas’ best friend, and is becoming a good friend of mine. When Timas is busy with his duties, Milori often finds me wandering around the palace and tags along on my exploration. I delicately wrap the flower up in a piece of cloth I brought along to protect the flower, tucking it safely away in my bag.

“Milori, there is no way you are going to get me to believe that people don’t think you’re ‘pretty.’ I mean what about that poor woman that followed you around at the betrothal ball. She had stars in her eyes all night.”

Something shifts in Milori’s face—something like longing sits heavily on his features .

“Her name is Tibby. Nice girl, but it was her parents pushing her to follow me around. They think if I bond with her, their social standing will increase. That happens a lot. Most of the women who, as you say, ‘fawn’ over me are only interested in the fact that I have Timas’ ear. Besides, I’m not stupid. I’ve heard what the nobles say about my ‘outcast’ mother and the embarrassment of a son she produced.”

I stop adjusting my bag and really look at Milori. With all his infectious energy, you might miss the sadness in his eyes. He constantly puts on a show of being happy, and maybe to some extent he is, but there is something profound and tortured under the surface: a serious loneliness.

“Why do you do it?” I can’t help but ask.

“Do what?”

“Pretend like you’re happy all the time?”

He sighs and breaks a small twig off a bush, fiddling with it in his hands.

“I’m not unhappy. In fact, moving here and meeting Timas was probably one of the best things that has happened in my life, but I’ll deny it if you say it to anyone. It’s just as time has passed, I have longed for that connection, like the one you and Timas share. I want to find the other half of my spirit, not settle for a well-planned political bonding. I may be second in command for all intents and purposes, but I don’t want my bonded to look at me like I’m just a piece in the game. I want her to want me the same way my very being craves to have her now, which is an indescribable feeling, seeing as I don’t even know who she is. ”

How utterly heartbreaking. I think because I am human I don’t realize the depth of a bond or the longing that comes with it. I finish wrapping the flower and tuck it in my bag, careful not to crush it.

“I think she is out there waiting for a man who will bring joy to her life, who is loyal and no doubt going to shower her with a lot of affection… like such a ridiculous amount that she might get sick of it. You know, like a puppy.”

“Are you calling me a dog?!” He smacks his hand on his chest, looking not the least bit insulted.

“Yes.” No sense beating around the bush.

He shrugs, “You’re not wrong. Now, we need to get back to the palace before Timas realizes you left without him knowing. Risky business with how temperamental he’s been lately.” I hate to admit it, but I kind of like winding Timas up—it makes for a fun day. We duck under the branches and finally make it to the narrow path. Eventually we make it out of the woods, the palace looming in the distance. The large, impressive building makes me stop momentarily and a wave of insecurity grips me. Timas is so much more than I am: he is the King of the Day Court. It is an intimidating thought. Yet he wants me. He often calms my insecurities about him picking a human with no power to be his Queen. He is amazing like that, always helping me up when the anxiety gets the best of me.

Milori notices I haven’t continued following and comes back to check on me. “Everything ok?”

I mull over his question for a minute. Am I ok? I have found a man who loves me unconditionally. I live in a place of luxury, and my family is safe. Yes, I am ok, though I don’t think the feeling of unworthiness of being Timas’ bonded will disappear. So, I do what I know helps me. I think about how much I love him and how I would do anything to be with him.

“Yes, I’m ok. I’m just a little nervous, that’s all. The bonding ceremony is in three days. It’s scary to think we will have to stand up in front of all those people, but I’m also excited to finally be bonded.”

“The big fancy ceremony will be over quickly, then you and Timas can finally put all the annoying royal party stuff behind you and just be. It’ll be ok.”

“I know. Thanks again for taking me all the way out here. Knowing how much this flower signifies unwavering love and commitment to a bonded is the perfect way to show Timas how much I love him.”

“Right, because you guys finding random corners to kiss and say ‘I love you’ doesn’t already do that?” He raises a brow questioningly and shakes his head. “Come on, I heard they’re supposed to have your fancy scones for breakfast. Why we never had them in the palace before you came is beyond me. You’d think being around the humans for so long, we would have figured out how to make those heavenly treats.” Chuckling, I continue walking, letting the sun warm my skin and the light breeze cool it simultaneously. The walk has helped me clear my mind, and now all I want to do is see Timas .

After safely putting the flower in my suite, I head toward the throne room. Milori left to do his commanding duties, allowing me to wander around.

The throne room is a large open space with several pillars lining the sides. The space feels like a garden with vines sprawling up the pillars, around arched windows and embedded into the walls. The marble floor makes the room feel extravagant but I suppose it’s supposed to feel that way. The mid-morning sun shines through the stained glass windows creating a dance of colours that float around the room. At the end of the room sit two thrones carved out of dark wood, intricate swirls and several suns cover the chairs. Timas sits on one, his usual royal robes draping over the opulent chair, looking agitated and bored. I can’t contain my happiness seeing him. His attention is pulled when he catches sight of me, his blue eyes meet mine and his entire body changes. He sits up straighter and the smile that is reserved for me makes an appearance. Raza’l—one of the council members—is here this morning, likely reporting on the latest murder. The Night Court has ramped up its attacks on Sonas, continuing to cause significant distress in the city, pushing neighbours to suspect each other even though there is no basis for it. Raza’l turns around to see me walking towards them. His already annoyed face morphs into one of disdain. He has been the one on the council most against our pairing; I’m trying not to take that personally.

“My flower!” Timas stands and practically runs to me. His strong arms wrap around me, lifting me straight off the floor. His lips land on mine, making me gasp and moan all at the same time. I push my hands into his hair, feeling the soft, silky strands between my fingers. Wrapped up in his arms, I float away to somewhere else, somewhere where no one is bothered by me being human and the future Queen of the Day Court. Finally, Timas sets me down, breathing heavily, our breaths mingling together.

“I missed you.” He whispers.

“You saw me last night,” I replied. He groans and tucks his head into my neck.

“Only three more days until you will be in my arms every night for the rest of our lives.” His words are muffled, but they warm me all the same. A cough comes from behind me, and Timas stands straight, his joyful face turning into a mask of defense and indifference.

“Your Majesty, we haven’t concluded our business,” Raza’l hisses. Timas’ eyes begin to darken. Raza’l has become more and more outspoken lately, and Timas’ patience is wearing thin. Timas turns slowly, like a snake turning on its enemy. He walks towards Raza’l, and a rumble runs through the room. Raza’l at least has some sense to take a step back.

“You may be part of the council Raza’l but you have no right to demand my attention when I am with my spirit bond. I ask you to remember your place in the future. Just be glad I do not wish to scare my Emilia or I would remind you exactly who you are dealing with. ”

A brief thought of defiance crosses Raza’l‘s face, but it doesn’t last long. He bows his head apologetically. Before the conversation can continue, the doors to the throne room fling open, and Milori runs into the room.

“Timas! We have guests!” Milori is practically running into the room. The look on his face doesn’t shout guests at me—terror sits behind his eyes. Nearly out of breath, Milori stops in front of Timas.

“What guests?” Timas asks. The anger directed at Raza’l has vanished, and now the stoic King stands before us. Before Milori speaks, he visibly swallows.

“The rightful Queen Neeve of the Night Court. She requests an audience with you. She says she can stop the murders, but she needs your help.”

So many thoughts and emotions pass through Timas’ eyes. I don’t know if he is scared, angry, or confused, but it doesn’t take long before he jumps into action.

“Rightful Queen?” Timas asks. Milori just nods his head. “Let’s see what she has to say.” Timas takes my hand and leads me to the front, sitting me in the chair beside his—the one meant for the Queen. Raza’l nearly bares his teeth at the action, but he catches himself and heads to the side to wait for whatever is about to happen.

The doors are already open when a woman wearing a long, beautiful midnight blue gown and a shining black cloak turns the corner. Holy suns, she is gorgeous. The combination of her pale grey eyes, her long brown hair half-tied back, and her perfect complexion puts me in a trance. Two women follow just behind her in equally lovely gowns, and they practically glide over the floor, whereas I trip over my own feet. She stops several feet from us and looks straight at Timas, not even giving me a side glance. Dipping her head slightly, she returns her gaze to Timas, which is starting to make me feel uncomfortable or murderous, I’m not sure which one.

“Your Majesty.”

“I assume you are the one who claims to be the rightful Queen of the Night Court.” Timas shifts slightly in his chair, which is the only indication he is ready to fight if he needs to.

“I am.” She stands unmoving, like a statue carved from the finest marble, her presence commanding the room with silent dignity.

“Why are you here? As you should be aware, our relationship with the Night Court is not exactly on good terms. It is rather dangerous of you to walk into the lion’s mouth.” Timas says. No fear crosses her face, just a look of determination.

“I am not afraid to be here because I care too much for my people. Right now, my tyrannical half-brother rules the Night Court, and I intend to get it back. If you cannot help me, then I will find another way, but I am aware of the issues my half-brother is causing you, and I believe I can solve both of our problems. I hope you will give me a moment of your time to explain.”

Timas looks over at me briefly before returning his attention to Neeve .

“How can you possibly help us when we have been working tirelessly to stop these attacks? What could you possibly offer?”

“I offer this. I can tell you exactly where my half-brother is and how to get there. Navigating the Shrouded Forest is not an easy feat. I can also share with you how to look out for Night Court spies and the agreement my half-brother has with the Northern Orcs.”

“And what do you request in return?”

“I ask that we unite our Courts once more. The exile has done its job. My grandfather is dead, and now too, is my father. My people have lamented over the terrible history of the Night Court uprising. We desire to be united once more and live among each other.” Timas pauses before he continues, and a sinking feeling sits in my stomach.

“How do you propose we unite our Courts? And how do I know I can trust you?”

“In terms of trusting me, I cannot guarantee anything—it is a chance you will have to take. As for unification, that is simple. We have a political bonding, uniting our two Courts.”

Her words hit me like a slap in the face. The room spins as I grip the arms of the chair. Did she just suggest that Timas bond with her?!