20. Chapter Twenty Rhowyn
Chapter Twenty: Rhowyn
The room Arryn led us to was large and open, with what appeared to be mats all along the floor that provided a softer place to land. Large windows lined the far wall, allowing a ton of natural light to flood the space. A table was set up on one side, filled with various weapons and other gear.
I couldn't help my disappointment at not seeing any boxing gear or a bag in sight, and apparently, it showed all over my face. Baer noticed and asked, “What's wrong?”
Lennox snarked, “Not to your liking, Princess? Afraid to get your hands dirty?”
I rolled my eyes at Lennox and answered Baer instead. “I was just hoping to see a punching bag or some boxing gear. It's been several days since I've been able to train.”
“Well, today, our focus will be more on magic training, but maybe I can scrounge something up for later,” Baer told me simply.
I just nodded as Arryn came to stand in front of me. “I know we've talked to you a little bit about magic, but it seems we need to start with more of the basics to see if you can reach and draw yours out.”
“Okay.” I nodded, ready to get started and excited about finding out what I could do, though a part of me remained doubtful that I even had magic.
Arryn led me closer to the windows and away from Lennox and Baer, giving us a semblance of privacy. He sat down on the mats and gestured for me to do the same. Once I had done so, he said, “I want you to start by closing your eyes and trying to block out everything while focusing on your breathing.”
I did as he instructed, breathing in and out. After a little bit, I felt myself starting to relax. “Now, try to direct yourself internally, follow from your mind to deep inside your chest. Focus on what you feel.”
As I continued my breathing, sinking deeper into the meditation, I allowed my mind to picture a pathway from my brain to my chest, stopping to picture my lungs filling and deflating with each respiration. The longer I watched this action internally, the more I started to feel an area of energy that was almost hiding from me. As I studied it, I noted darkness and shadows that felt like they’d been designed to keep me and everyone else out.
I couldn't explain how I knew this if I had wanted to, but it felt like a bone-deep intuition, almost like how we’re programmed to notice threats in our environment. No one knew exactly how it worked, but we knew it was there. A pure instinct meant to keep us safe and ensure our survival.
The more I tried to prod the ball of energy, the more the shadows grew, as if protecting it from discovery. So, I pulled back slightly, allowing myself to see what I could feel from the small amount that escaped from the shadows, deciding that pushing it wouldn't be wise until I knew more. This felt like my magic, but if my guess was correct, it was locked within some kind of dark cage, intent on keeping me away from it. I allowed my thoughts to drift while keeping the ball in my mind's eye, trying to see if I could gain any more insight from it.
When I couldn’t gain any more information or ideas, I opened my eyes to see Arryn still watching me patiently, his eyes holding the question, but he remained silent. It was a trait I wasn't used to; humans were always so impatient and constantly demanding instant gratification that very few ever learned the true meaning of discipline. The same discipline Arryn appeared to have mastered, and a devious part of me felt a strong desire to see how far I could push his control. I wanted to see what he was like when he was out of control and needed me desperately.
My heart rate picked up as a shot of desire went straight to my core, and I fought the need to squeeze my legs together to ease my sudden need for friction, my lips parting. Arryn’s pupils dilated as his gaze landed on my lips, causing my mouth to dry and my tongue to dart out to lick my lips.
I wasn't a fool. I knew he was attracted to me, and I was definitely into him, but I was hesitant to dive into anything that might have strings that could keep me here longer than I wanted to be. Instead of succumbing to our desires like I wanted to do, something I desperately wished I could indulge in, I chose to distract us both.
“I think I found my magic, but I couldn't get close enough to tell you for sure.”
His brow furrowed. “What do you mean?”
“I'm not sure how to explain it, but I felt this core of energy in my chest. It felt like it was caged in shadows. Anytime I tried to get closer to it, the more the shadows grew, so I backed off.” I furrowed my own brows as I tried to think of logical reasons for what I had sensed until I remembered that this was supposed to be magic, and I knew nothing about magic yet.
Arryn seemed to think this over before asking me, “Do you think the shadows are malevolent?”
“Honestly? No. It felt more like it was hiding my magic to protect me, but I have no idea why or how I know this, just that I do.” I shrugged.
“It's probably the same cause holding your glamor in place. I'm thinking it might have something to do with keeping you hidden on Earth.”
“That sounds plausible, but if that's the case, why hasn't it worn off yet? You would think that whoever did this would want me to be able to access it if I ever found my way back here.”
“Unless, whoever it was had been planning on being with you to do it.”
I didn't know what to say to that. Both of us seemed to understand that this was the most reasonable explanation for the lock on my magic and my true fae form.
“We'll have Master Jude take a look when we speak with him later. Hopefully, he can shed some more light or undo the magic completely. Until then, we still have some time before we need to leave to get ready for the meeting with all the Chosen and Consorts.” He glanced around the training area, spotting Baer and Lennox sparring in what looked to be some kind of bubble that kept any sound from escaping. A thin translucent film stretched around the two of them as they fought, but not a sound could be heard.
“Is that a soundproof bubble?” I asked Arryn, still shocked to see more magic, my eyes glued to the men who were training with large swords.
Arryn laughed. “Yes. Baer's air magic from Spring allows him to form an air shield that reflects the sound waves back to them and keeps the noise from escaping. We didn't want to interrupt your meditation.”
“That's so cool!” I exclaimed, gaping at such an awesome and useful skill. “I must admit, a part of me is eager to learn what I’m capable of. So, what else can you guys do?” I demanded, turning to face Arryn again.
He was still smiling, clearly amused at my eagerness and enthusiasm. “Honestly, there's almost nothing we can't do as fae. The issue is that each fae tends to have different affinities in varying strengths. Only the Queen and Chosen can access the magic of all the affinities of their consorts, which is why they are assigned to help them.”
“So, you're saying I can use each of my consort’s magics, even if I can't access my own?”
“I can't say for sure in your case, since all the Chosen and queens have been able to access their own magic, at least that I know of.” He leaned back on his hands and extended his long legs out in front of him, crossed at the ankles. “But typically, the Chosen are able to access the magic of their consorts by the time the trials begin.”
I mirrored his more relaxed pose. “So why didn't I feel y'all's magic when I was searching for mine? I'd assume that y'all's would be quite evident to me. All of you seem to be strong.”
“I assume you didn't feel our magics because we have yet to confirm our oaths to you as your consorts through a bonding ceremony.”
“What kind of oaths?” My curiosity got the best of me as I considered being able to use air like Baer or to heal like Arryn had. On Earth, the idea was pure fantasy, and to think that these acts were possible fascinated me. If I could have used some of these gifts on Earth, I'd have been able to stop so much from ever happening to me or my girls.
Almost immediately, I recalled the fact that my journey gave me an inner strength and perseverance that I never would have gained without hard times. In my lowest moments, I had always managed to find something within myself that allowed me to push back, making me a true fighter in every sense of the word. The physicality of my training only enhanced that which was already deep within my soul. I was more than a survivor; I was a conqueror.
I smiled to myself at that thought and knew that wherever this journey of life took me, I would always persevere. There was a peace that could burrow itself deep inside when you realized that no matter what, you'd be okay. That peace of mind allowed you to truly embrace everything as it was.
“Our oaths will swear us to be your protectors, your supporters, and your servants in the name of our people and the land from which we have been blessed. We’ll be extensions of your will and are meant to meet any needs that you may have during and after your reign as queen,” Arryn said, meeting my eyes, his passion and honor at having the ability to serve as a Consort evident in every word. It was touching and yet overwhelming at the same time.
I wasn't sure I was deserving of such faith, especially when he knew so little about me. I also wasn't sold on having them be my servants. Knowing what it was like to be on such unequal footing with another, always seen and treated as lesser than, I would never impose that on another. It's not something I would ever allow in my life again, and I never wanted to be the one to demand such an inequality of power.
“Well, I'm not sure I need any protectors, much less servants, so I guess it's a good thing that you guys won't be stuck in those roles once I return to Earth.” I met his gaze, letting my determination shine through so he could see that I wouldn't be swayed in this.
He glanced away, clearly not accepting my decision but choosing not to challenge me. Instead, he nodded and faced me again. “I know that this has all been so very new and strange to you, but I hope you can also see us fae as different to humans. We have different cultures, different priorities, and different ideas on what we find honorable. At the same time, we also have many things in common. I'm here to help you see all those differences and similarities and find the beauty in all of it. While you are with us, know that I am here to help, and my only wish is to support you in whatever you decide is the best course of action for you.”
Smiling sadly at him, I said, “Thank you, Arryn. I'm happy I've had this chance to meet you. You're a good man, and I hope that you'll consider me a friend as well.” I placed a hand on his knee, my first time touching him in such an intimate moment. His body heat seeped into me as we measured each other, a glimpse behind the curtains we both used to hide from the world and others.
He smiled at me. “Alright, friend, ” he emphasized the word friend playfully, “I do believe we should be heading back to our suite now. We have much to prepare for.”
He stood and reached a hand down to offer assistance. As he pulled me up, I stumbled over my feet, not expecting the strength he’d used effortlessly, and I laughed out loud.
“Any luck?” Baer asked as he drew closer to us, his skin covered in a sheen of sweat, his shirt clinging to his muscles in the most delectable way. I couldn't help licking my lips, Baer smiling back at me knowingly . Oh, he definitely knew what he was working with.
“What exactly do I need luck for?” I asked, raising an eyebrow and playing coy.
“Alright, Killer.” He laughed, “I mean, were you able to find your magic?”
My smile slipped a little, not loving the idea of failing at my task but also not beating myself up too much since I had so little knowledge about any of this. “I found it, but I couldn't access it. Arryn and I think that whoever made my glamor also made sure I couldn't use my own magic on Earth and locked it away from me somehow.” I frowned at that, turning to Arryn to confirm.
“We were hoping Master Jude would also help us unlock it,” Arryn said matter-of-factly.
“Well, the Queen has already ordered him to remove my glamor, something about not wanting me to look human during the trials,” I told them. Arryn and Baer were a little bit surprised at this, their eyes widening at the information.
“Was that what she was talking to you both about last night after the ceremony?” Arryn asked, as if putting puzzle pieces together in his head.
I simply nodded as Lennox approached, shirtless, his muscles and pale skin providing a devastating contrast that any red-blooded woman would find alluring. He was drinking water as I tracked the sweat that trailed over his chest and rolled to his waist, his low-slung pants providing a glimpse of that “V” that made me want to lick up and down the lines.
I swallowed, my mouth suddenly dry and my skin flushing with heat as I realized the full impact of having these three men next to me. Their presence made it hard to focus. I was used to being around a lot of sweaty, ripped guys on Earth, but this felt different, and I wondered if fae males had something that made them more alluring. Their looks were all at such a completely higher level than I was used to with human men.
I finally met Lennox's eyes, which were hooded as he lowered his water. “Sounds exactly like something Mother would do. She wouldn't want the human servants to get any ideas that they might gain power here if you were allowed to be presented looking like them.” His tone was harsh and with so much disdain that I was slightly taken aback.
I bristled. “We wouldn't want the humans to think they're our equals now, would we? We surely can't have that. If we don’t remove this glamor soon, they might get too many ideas,” I snapped, sarcasm dripping from my words. I heard someone sigh, but my eyes never left Lennox's, glaring at him as if looks could kill. The utter gall.
“Exactly. I'm glad you understand,” he said pompously and with a slight smirk.
I was about to launch myself at him, trembling with the need to punch that smug look off his face, when Baer spoke, “Rhowyn, I'm sure that's not Lennox's feelings on the matter. He was simply letting us know the Queen's thoughts behind her orders.” He glared at Lennox. “Weren't you?”
Lennox stared at him almost blankly, while Arryn came to stand next to me and placed a hand on my shoulder, immediately easing some of my white-hot anger. Lennox met all our gazes before sighing, his back relaxing and shoulders lowering slightly. “That was exactly my intention. There are many things the Queen has strong feelings about, and this is one of them. She will not be happy if we can't remove your glamor which could mean making an enemy of her. Something we absolutely don't want. Especially if you hope to still return to Earth. One word from her, and she can make sure that never happens for you.”
Well, shit . That was a little bit scary, and I instantly tensed under the new pressure to make sure we succeeded at this.
Lennox's words seemed to have stunned Arryn and Baer as well. Apparently, the Queen's bigoted ideas weren't all that well-known. He gave us a few moments to wrap our minds around that thought before continuing. “So, with that in mind, I suggest we take this seriously, so we don’t make her an enemy. We have introductions to the other Chosen and their Consorts. Master Jude plans to meet us back in our suite afterward to see what he can do to help with the glamor, magic, and the trials. But right now, we are running out of time to get ready.”
His words might have been a little harsh, but I couldn't argue with his points. Without speaking, we all seemed to agree and made our way back to our room quickly and quietly.
We entered the suite, and I immediately went to my room. When I opened the door to go inside, I found Juniper standing there. “Quickly, child, you haven't given us much time to make you presentable,” she chided me, while dragging me into the room. I saw a gown lying out on my bed but ignored it for now. “Where's Larissa?” I asked, my eyes searching for her.
“Since this afternoon is more of an informal occasion, I have instructed her to attend to other needs. I should be able to handle preparing you by myself. If I can't then I am not worthy of my duties,” she said, as she bustled about with way more energy than I ever had.
I watched her, not sure how she wanted me to proceed. Noticing, she paused and met my gaze, her hands going to her more rounded hips, “Hurry up and get undressed. You need to freshen up before we can send you out among the wolves. You'll need your armor fully in place without a doubt.”
I did as she asked. “Armor?”
“Of course, dear. When a woman knows she looks good and looks the part, her confidence rises dramatically. We must have you looking the part of a strong, kind, and wise Chosen. All of which you are, but now we want all the others to see it as well. We must send the message that you are not a fae to be trifled with, even if you've only just discovered that you are one.”
Standing in only my underwear, Juniper turned to stand in front of me. “We've no time for a proper bath, so this will have to do.” She moved her hands in front of her and between us. I jumped a little when I felt a warm, wet breeze caress across all of my exposed skin, chill bumps skittering behind the sensation. Apparently, she had water magic and was using it to clean me .
Once she was done, she handed me a warm, fluffy towel and a silk robe to put on after I had dried myself. She turned away and busied herself by the vanity. I sat down when she gestured for me to do so. She immediately started messing with my hair. “I realize you've had a lot of new things happen recently, but I figured none of your guys have told you much about Court?”
“You would be correct; the subject hasn't really been discussed in detail. All I’ve gathered is that I should be careful, which seems to be the same theme as all the other courts I've ever heard about,” I replied as her fingers continued to twist through my hair as she worked some complicated braid into place.
“That's absolutely the main idea, but here, things work a little differently. You can't possibly learn all the intricacies in so little time, so I would advise saying and doing as little as possible and listening closely to the others. You may have moments of disagreement on those things you see or hear, but it is imperative that you don't let your opinions out. It will only draw more attention to you and make you a bigger target.”
She finished my braid, which wrapped from one side to the other, the tail hanging over my shoulder. It was strong yet feminine in my green locks. She moved in front of me and started on my makeup, continuing her lesson. “I can tell you that your sudden arrival and unknown heritage has already created quite the stir at Court among the other Chosen. No one knows much about you, and that makes them nervous. It keeps them at a distance until they've made their judgments about you and what you're capable of. Which means they’ll all be watching and judging this afternoon. It would be wise not to give them much to go on, remaining mysterious until you've had a chance to learn more.” She finished my makeup and again, I had never felt so attractive and yet, fully myself.
“Now, get dressed and remember that the palace has ears everywhere, so be careful what you say while here. It will be used against you,” she finished, her hands clasped in front of her while she waited for me to dress in the outfit she had chosen for me.
It was a soft linen blouse, which fit loosely around me in a dark maroon color and was paired with soft, black leather pants and boots. It was strong and yet still very feminine and sexy. She had hit the mark with this armor, and I smiled at the finished product.
“Thank you, Juniper. For the advice and for the kick ass outfit. I may not feel ready to face them, but now that I look the part, I can't help but feel more confident. I'm not sure what I would do without you,” I told her, trying to convey my gratitude for her help and tutelage. I wasn't lying about my thanks for her styling because if it had been up to me, I'd show up in yoga pants and a tank top. Comfort all the way to compensate for such an uncomfortable situation.
“It has been my pleasure, dear. Now, you better hurry and make your entrance. I look forward to watching you shake everything up.” She smiled broadly at me.
I smiled back, not replying, just turning and walking out the door with my shoulders back and head held high, ready to take on anything that came my way.