Chapter 23
CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE
I t was almost time for the formal festivities to begin, and Blackwood Castle was nearly bursting from the level of excitement. Everyone, from high lords to chambermaids, was giddy with hope and joy. Beyond the castle grounds, hotels and taverns were overflowing with visitors from across the realm. People of all ages and all professions could be heard from every direction as they gathered in the streets and celebrated the future of Sinaryos.
Their prince was alive…thanks to the husband of the woman who’d destroyed their temple and let their chimeras escape.
But nobody was asking for her blood.
They were too busy thanking the gods for Dillon’s return.
After inviting Annika and Talvi to stop by and meet Lucia, Novi and Fallon had learned that he wasn’t the only one branded by magic on the day the chimeras were set free.
Annika had been marked by Kaos as well. She’d revealed a scar on her chest that was a perfect replica of The Star of the Sacred Son—the medal worn by every heir to the throne. The medal that Fallon was wearing when they exchanged blood and magic. Now they both had powers they didn’t quite understand.
“You should come back and take some lessons at the university,” Novi said to Annika as the two of them walked through the halls. Fallon and Talvi walked in front, not saying much at all. Neither of them shared the rapport that their significant others held for each other.
As they approached Fallon's office, Novi felt a flutter of unease. The rescue of Dillon should have been cause for unbridled joy, but something in Fallon's rigid posture suggested otherwise. She pushed the thought aside as they entered the opulent room, its walls lined with oil paintings of ships, horses, and chimeras. Ancient tomes were arranged neatly on the bookshelves, their scent of old leather mingling with the faint aroma of fresh ink.
Fallon strode to his desk, retrieving a heavy box lined in red velvet. The clink of metal rattling from within sent a shiver down Novi's spine. In her old life working as a bar maid, one of those coins would’ve paid her living expenses for an entire year.
Now she was looking at an entire box of them. Power, wealth, and blood were all at her fingertips. How easily they intertwined in this strange world she now called home.
After spinning the case around and releasing the clasps that held it shut, Fallon lifted the lid. Warm, golden light reflected on Talvi’s face. Annika’s jaw dropped at the sight of so much wealth, but Talvi simply blinked.
“Well, Marinossian? Does this adequately show my appreciation?” Fallon prodded.
Talvi’s blue and green eyes carefully studied the demonborn prince. “You mentioned a portal as well.”
“Yes…I did," Fallon said, his dark eyes meeting Talvi's with a flicker of disapproval—or perhaps something deeper. The tension between them was palpable, a silent duel of wills.
“In addition to the Ellunian gold coins," Fallon announced, placing a small chest on the desk with a deliberate flourish, “a set of portals, as promised. They will erase the distance between any two locations, whether they are here on Erit?hti, or Earth. You could use them to cross this room, or this world.
Talvi opened the case and picked up one of the golden bricks encrusted with jewels, weighing it in his hand. "Generous, considering the circumstances."
Novi wondered if he was still silently angry with Fallon for almost beheading his wife. Maybe he was angry that Tristan had hurt her, or that she’d been locked in a dungeon for the last two weeks. Maybe he was angry about the kiss that gave her so much magic and power. Maybe he was angry about being shot and left for dead on Bleakmoor Island by Fallon’s team. Maybe he was angry that they’d forced him to be the only one to risk freeing Dillon from the most notorious prison in existence.
They were all good reasons on their own. To add them all together…well…Novi didn’t blame Talvi for not falling all over himself in Fallon’s presence. If anything, it made her respect him even more than she already did.
"Consider it an investment in future alliances," Fallon said, his tone icy. "We all have much to gain—and to lose, if this situation isn’t handled properly.”
Talvi merely inclined his head, revealing a deadly gleam in his eyes.
“I do agree with you on that point. I’m certain you have a busy schedule this evening, so we won’t keep you any further.”
“There’s more.”
Three heads swiveled in Fallon’s direction as he opened a desk drawer and took out a smaller box. He lifted the lid, revealing at least half a dozen crystix devices.
“Thank you, but I already have one,” Talvi said. He was about to shut the box when Annika’s hand darted out and picked one up. Her fingers caressed the smooth daenomium case, and the sigil of the chimera etched into the black metal.
Fallon lifted a curious brow.
“Does your family have one? Does Annika? Most people prefer to have a crystix of their own.”
Novi gave Annika a gentle nudge.
“This is how you and I can stay in touch. And you’re lucky—he’s giving you the newest version.”
“You don’t have to take them if you don’t want them,” Fallon said. “But eventually, everyone you know will be fighting to get their hands on a crystix.”
Annika looked up at Talvi. “Your brother would love a crystix of his own. So would your parents.”
Talvi couldn’t help smiling at his wife. He closed the box and handed it to her, then gathered the case of coins and the portal chest into his muscular arms.
“You’re right. They would love it. Let's take this back to our room and let our friends get to their event, shall we, love?”
Annika nodded in agreement.
"Thank you, Fallon," she said, her voice softer now, almost reverent. "For everything."
“ Almost everything,” Talvi told him with a smirk. “Could’ve done without the attempted murder.”
Ever so slightly, Fallon’s demonborn gaze narrowed at the Kallo elf.
"The Ellunian Empire will not forget this act of...friendship," he replied stiffly as he motioned towards the door. His gaze lingered on the couple for a moment longer than necessary as the four of them left the office. Then the Marinossians turned left, while the Crown Prince and his consort veered right.
Novi glanced at Fallon, noticing the set of his jaw, and the tightness around his eyes as they walked towards the Great Hall. Despite the triumphant return of his brother, he was troubled.
She wrapped a hand around his upper arm, feeling the coiled strength that lie beneath his jacket sleeve. "Fallon," she began, her voice soft but her intuition sharp. "What’s wrong? You seem really distracted.”
Fallon's obsidian eyes met hers as they continued to walk. A swirl of emotions filled their mysterious depths. He sighed, his shoulders slumping ever so slightly. "Am I that transparent?"
Novi's lips quirked into a half-smile. "Only to me." She studied the line of his jaw with her eyes, practically feeling the tension there. "I thought you’d be ecstatic. Dillon's home and Annika's safe...but you look like the weight of the entire Ellunian Empire rests on your shoulders."
A humorless chuckle escaped Fallon's lips. "Perhaps it does."
“Are you upset at Talvi’s comment about the attempted murder?”
Fallon scoffed. “No. I was doing my duty.”
“Are you nervous about leaving Tamira alone with Lucia?"
She hadn’t even finished her sentence and he was already shaking his head.
“Tamira is perfectly suited for the task," he said, his tone clipped as they descended a staircase. "And we have eight redcloaks guarding our chamber. Tamira won't be able to so much as sneeze without someone knowing."
Novi nodded, trying to quell the unease churning in her stomach. "You're right. Do you think I'm being paranoid?”
"Not at all,” Fallon murmured, pulling her close for a tender kiss. He cupped her cheek, gazing into her eyes. “I think you're being a mother. And a very good one, at that."
They walked down a few more stairs, and even though Novi knew she should feel happy, it was hard for her to relax when Fallon was clearly upset about something.
“Will you please tell me what’s bothering you?”
Fallon gave her hand a gentle pat of assurance.
"I’m contemplating the evening's itinerary. The Duke of Ordeya wants to make a speech, and there are already seven others planned—mine, then the Military Council, then a sister from the Temple of the Chimera, Worlic…” he trailed off, though the words felt hollow. His hand tightened around hers, and he gave her a weary smile.
“That’s a lot of fucking speeches,” Novi blurted out, making him laugh.
“I know this isn’t the lighthearted evening you’d prefer, but…”
“It’s part of the deal,” Novi said, grinning at him as they approached the doors of the Great Hall.
Tall and carved with the sigil of the chimera, the doors loomed like sentinels, each one staffed with footmen and guards to ensure only the wealthiest and most powerful guests were let in. The hum of conversation and laughter spilled out, a stark contrast to the tension Novi had felt earlier. Fallon paused, taking a long look at her before they subjected themselves to the highest of high society.
"Shall we?" he said, offering a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes.
"Of course," Novi replied, forcing her own smile. They stepped into the grandeur of the hall, where chandeliers glittered like captured starlight and the scent of rich spices filled the air. Nobles and courtiers milled about, most of them sipping wine.
“Quite the turnout. More than expected. Stay close," Fallon murmured, his voice low and protective.
"Always," she promised, squeezing his hand. His grip on her remained firm, almost possessive as they were swallowed by the crowd.
"Welcome, Prince Fallon! Sacred One!" A chorus of voices greeted them.
Together they moved as one, like a shadow navigating its way across a sea of faces. Their presence drew every reaction— from claps and cheers to hushed whispers and nods of respect. Chandeliers above cast a ghostly glow upon their admirers, illuminating their hopeful faces.
Novi plastered on a radiant grin, her mind still grappling with the sheer number of people cramming their way into the Great Hall. As they wove through the crowd, her inhuman ears picked up various snippets of conversation.
"...a miracle, truly..."
"...thought Bleakmoor was inescapable..."
"...the Sacred Son returns..."
A portly nobleman with a florid face bowed deeply before them. "Your Highness, Lady Novi! What joyous tidings!"
Fallon inclined his head. "Indeed, Lord Barrister. My brother's return is nothing short of a divine blessing."
"Tell me," the lord leaned in conspiratorially, "how did His Highness manage such a feat?"
Novi felt Fallon's muscles tense beneath her fingertips. "I'm afraid the details are...sensitive," he replied smoothly. "But rest assured, Prince Dillon's escape was carried out with the utmost care and ingenuity."
"Prince Fallon," another noble bowed deeply, his eyes flicking nervously at Novi. "It is nothing short of a miracle that Dillon has returned to us."
“It is indeed a miracle,” Fallon replied, his voice smooth but edged with a hint of steel. "His survival speaks volumes about the strength and resilience of the Blackwood bloodline."
"Yes, of course," the noble stammered. He stepped back as Fallon gave him a deeper look, searching for hidden motives.
"Your Highness, Sacred One…it’s such an honor to see you both,” another courtier interjected. Her silken dress spun gracefully around her as she curtsied. “I’ve never seen such celebrations in Sinarya. Dillon's return…it feels like the gods have smiled upon us."
“I think they have," Novi responded. Her smile was polite but her mind was racing. She motioned for Fallon to lean down so she could whisper in his ear.
“Is this what the entire night is going to be like?”
“Yes. Until they start making speeches. I’m afraid you’re in for a dull evening.”
Novi snorted a laugh. “I’m glad I took that nap earlier so I don’t fall asleep when it’s Worlic’s turn to talk.”
To her surprise, Fallon snickered under his breath. “He might still put you to sleep. There’s a reason why we’re having him speak last. As soon as he’s done with his speech, you’re free to leave.”
For the next hour, Novi fulfilled her role as the Sacred One, Prince Fallon’s consort, chosen by the gods. She smiled so much and for so long that her face was starting to hurt. It was a relief when they took their seats on the raised platform and let the speeches begin.
In fact, it was such a relief that she didn’t mind sitting beside Lady Jennae. She gave Novi a hopeful smile, making her wonder if she’d chosen that spot for strategic reasons. They weren’t able to say more to each other than a few words, but more importantly, Jennae served as a buffer, keeping Prince Tristan and Queen Laena on the other side of her.
That small act of kindness didn’t go unnoticed.
A lieutenant from the Royal Sinaryan Army spoke first. He was memorable because of the way he spoke about Dillon’s return. According to him, the army had been planning a mission for an undisclosed amount of time. Everything it took to bring him back was all part of a well-orchestrated plan.
Novi had heard enough conversations between Fallon and Mauricio to know that the Royal Family would never dream of actually revealing the truth of how events had unfolded. No, there was always an image to protect, an inconvenient truth to keep under wraps.
As the speeches came to an end, Novi caught sight of a familiar face. "There's Callie," she murmured to Fallon. "Is it alright if I go say hello?"
“Of course.” He helped her down the platform before releasing her from her obligations. "Let me know when you retire for the evening. I’m going to be here for a while."
Novi made her way to one of the wine fountains, snagging a glass of it before approaching her friend. Callie's face lit up as she saw her.
"Novi! You look absolutely radiant!"
Novi grinned, embracing her. “Thanks! I slept for three whole hours! It was amazing!” She let go, noticing a white patch in her friends dark brown hair. "And you look like you've been having way too much fun in the kitchens. Is that flour in your hair?"
Callie's hand flew to her dark tresses, a blush creeping across her cheeks. "Oh, gods! I thought I'd gotten it all out."
"It's barely noticeable," Novi reassured her. She brushed the flour away, then took a sip of wine. “So? What did you make?”
“Ginger molasses cookies,” Callie beamed. “They came out perfectly. I think the secret is to?—”
A flash of fiery red caught Novi's eye as Annika approached, her vibrant hair a beacon in the sea of courtly finery.
“How’s it going?” she grinned, joining their circle with a glass of her own. “Is it just me, or is it weird that Queen Laena’s not here for her own son’s party?”
“She only stayed for the speeches,” Novi said, rolling her eyes. “I’m pretty sure she left because she can’t stand not being the center of attention.”
Annika wrinkled her nose. “Then let’s not even waste our breath talking about her. Sorry I’m late. Did I miss anything good?”
“No, you’re just in time.” Novi turned to Callie with an expectant look. “Well? You spent the day in the kitchens. That’s where all the best gossip comes from. What’ve you got for us?”
Callie’s sweet face turned impish in an instant. “Oh! It’s juicy! There’s a new hall boy, and even though he’s only been here a week, he’s already managed to…” She trailed off as she gave an elegant curtsy to someone behind Novi.
"Good evening, ladies," a soft, cultured voice interrupted. Lady Jennae glided towards them, her emerald gown whispering against the polished floor.
Novi tensed, unsure how this conversation would unfold. Their last conversation had not gone well. Jennae's impending marriage to Fallon still loomed over them like a dark cloud, a reminder of the political machinations that governed their lives.
“Hello, Lady Jennae," Novi acknowledged, dipping her head slightly.
“It’s been quite the eventful day, hasn’t it?"
"That's putting it mildly," Novi quipped.
"I’m sure it is,” Jennae added softly, her eyes darting to Novi before settling back on Annika. "How are you holding up?"
“I’m still in one piece, which is better than I expected when I woke up this morning.” Annika swallowed her glass of wine and immediately refilled it.
"I wanted to be sure to speak with you, Annika," Jennae's voice was honey-sweet, belying the steel beneath. "I couldn’t retire for the evening without expressing my deepest gratitude."
Annika blinked, caught off-guard. "Gratitude? For what, exactly?"
Jennae's eyes glistened, her composure cracking. "For being brave enough to venture here and risk an audience with Prince Fallon. For you and your husband giving us the chance to bring Dillon home. You've...you've given us all a miracle."
Novi watched, stunned, as Jennae's carefully constructed mask slipped, revealing raw emotion beneath.
"I never thought..." Jennae's voice broke. "To see him again, alive..."
Callie, ever the peacemaker, placed a gentle hand on Jennae's arm. "It's overwhelming for all of us."
"Wise words, indeed,” Jennae conceded. She dabbed at her eyes with a lace-trimmed handkerchief before putting it away. "I look forward to seeing what the future holds…for all of us."
“So do I,” Novi agreed as her gaze met Jennae's. A silent understanding passed between the two women, along with a secret hope.
Annika, less versed in palace intrigue, smiled warmly. "I'm glad Talvi was able to bring Dillon back. It’s obvious everyone loves him.”
Jennae tried her best to compose herself, yet a hint of vulnerability still lingered in her eyes. “They do love him. Very much. You've done more than you know. For Sinaryos, for Dillon and Fallon...and for me. I’ve been told that Dillon insisted on passing a Royal Decree granting you and your husband immunity from any perceived crimes. I’m so glad you’ll be spared from any harm.”
“That makes two of us.”
Jennae reached for Annika free hand, clasping it in hers. “I must go, but I couldn’t leave without speaking to you. I hope this isn’t the last time we see one another, but if it is, please tell your husband how much I appreciate all that he’s done.”
Unsure of how to respond, Annika gave a sympathetic smile before Jennae released her hand and left the trio.
“She seems nice. Who is she?”
“The future queen,” Callie answered. “She’s marrying Fallon in two weeks.”
Annika’s jaw fell in disbelief as she turned to Novi.
“What? How can he marry her ? I thought he was with you ! And it’s obvious that Lady Jennae has major feelings for Dillon.”
“Welcome to life at court," Novi smirked before taking a small sip of her wine. “Where everyone has an insane amount of money and power, but not enough to get what they actually want. We all play these stupid games, but nobody wins.”
After not drinking in months, the alcohol was already making her tipsy.
“I think Annika and Talvi won,” Callie piped up. “A Royal Decree granting you both immunity? Think of all the things you could get away with!”
As the three of them delved deep into a lively conversation, their words and their laughter disappeared into music and chatter that filled the room. Novi found herself swept up in the moment, all of her past worries momentarily forgotten. It was such a comfort to be part of this strange new alliance forged between the most unlikely of people—a kitchen maid, a concubine, and guitarist from Earth.
Just as the women shared a collective sip of wine, a bloodcurdling scream tore through the Great Hall, shattering the atmosphere. More screams followed, turning the festive chatter into murmurs of dread. Wine glasses slipped from fingers, crashing to the floor in a symphony of broken crystal and horrified gasps.
The hall fell silent, other than the sound of more agonized screams and men shouting. The air thick with confusion and dread. Novi's heart thudded in her chest as the screams continued.
"Gods above, what is that?" Callie gasped, her eyes wide with fear.
The screams died down, and then Prince Tristan’s voice boomed over the crowd.
“Seize him, you fucking MORONS !”
Novi’s eyes met Annika’s, wide and alert. Both women instinctively surged towards the commotion, pushing against the crowd to let them through.
The scene they came upon was straight out of a nightmare.
Two hounds, gifted earlier that day to Dillon, were savagely tearing apart a long, bloody piece of meat, exposing the bone. Blood was everywhere…pooled on the floor, and splattered all over the surrounding nobles. They stood transfixed as a group of redcloaks shoved a handful of linen napkins against the bleeding stump of Tristan’s right arm and carried him away.
Fallon watched on in shock, although he seemed to be unharmed.
His older brother, however, was soaked from head to toe in bright red blood.
Novi watched in disbelief as Dillon casually tugged a handkerchief out of Talvi’s hand and wiped his dripping red face. Whatever had just happened hadn’t fazed him one bit.
“Well, Talvi? Was that an obscene enough level of reimbursement to make you rethink retirement?”
Talvi lifted a wary eyebrow.
“Truthfully? I’m not certain it was.”
“Damn...” Dillon frowned in frustration for a moment, seemingly oblivious to the horrified courtiers around him. “I do hope you’ll think about my offer. I wouldn’t expect you to start right away.”
“I’ll think about it,” Talvi said as Annika and Novi cautiously approached the trio of men. They took a wide berth around the puddle of blood, coming to stand beside Fallon and Talvi.
“I don’t mean to sound unappreciative, but how fast can you get us out of Sinaryos?” Talvi asked while casting his disapproving wife a ‘sorry, not sorry’ kind of grin. Novi had a good idea of what Talvi was not apologizing for, and she didn’t blame him one bit.
She kept quiet as Mauricio appeared at Fallon’s side. He flipped open his planner and was scanning through the pages when he stopped on one entry in particular.
“Renata has a shipment for Konstantin scheduled to leave early next week,” he said before closing the leather-bound book. “I’m sure she could arrange safe passage for you and Annika.”
Talvi ran a hand through his hair and gave his wife an apologetic look.
“I suppose staying until next week will have to suffice.”
“I’m not sure that’s wise, given the current situation,” Fallon advised, having regained most of his composure. “Mother will be outraged as soon as she finds out.”
“We all knew Tristan had it coming,” Dillon defended. “He’s lucky Talvi only took the arm. If Mother had punished him years ago, he might still have it.”
From across the bloodbath between them, Novi caught Annika’s gaze. Without a word spoken out loud, they both knew they agreed with Dillon.
“I agree with all of that, but it doesn’t change the fact that the Marinossians are better off leaving sooner than later.”
Fallon wrapped a protective arm around Novi, then turned to Talvi and Annika.
“You could leave tonight, if you really wanted. I know a faster way.”
“We’re listening,” said Talvi. Fallon nodded to Mauricio, who was clearly taken aback by the offer.
“Sire? Are you sure you want to share that information?”
Ignoring his secretary’s apprehensive concerns, Fallon gave a confident nod.
“I’m sure. After all, it’s Annika who’s responsible for uncovering it.”
“ Me ?” Annika asked. “What did I do?”
“You’ll see,” Fallon said with a mysterious smile as he reached for Novi’s hand. “How good is your German?”