Chapter Thirty-Five

Ellesandra

"Ihave something for you."

I roll my eyes as Felix strides into the chamber, though I'm unable to deny the curiosity that stretches through me with his words. He pauses at the wooden footboard of the featherbed, the genuine smile that plays on his lips revealing the dimple in his left cheek. If that weren't strange enough, his hands are hidden behind his back

I frown. "What is it?"

A rare dimple in his right cheek appears as he produces a bouquet of purple flowers from behind him. The flowers are the most vibrant shade of lilac I've ever seen, their petals seeming to glow in the dusky light filtering into the chamber.

My gaze flies upward and Felix chuckles as one of the petals moves.

"They're moonsilk butterflies," he explains gently, extending the bouquet further into the space between us.

Albeit skeptically, I lean forward to inspect it. While I'd rather be sent to the grave than admit it, butterflies are one of the only winged creatures I find tolerable.

At a closer glance, the outline of their lilac wings is lined with pearlescent white. Three glowing lines of the same shade run diagonally across each wing, tiny dots that resemble stars aligning in neat rows down the center. Although I'm loath to admit it, it's one of the most delicate looking creatures I've ever seen. Soft, golden light radiates from the two small antennas sprouting from each of their heads, making the outer shell of their abdomens translucent.

"Do you like them?"

"No."

His smile widens. "I somehow believe that's a lie, Lumina."

A soft rap on the chamber door prevents me from spewing the retort that bubbles on my tongue.

Pushing the bouquet into my hands, Felix plants a kiss on my temple before opening the door. One of the many butterflies that are gathered together begins to glow brighter, its wings fluttering as if it's about to take flight.

I can't make out the words, but the low rumble of Felix's voice sinks into my skin. I tear my gaze away from the bouquet when Felix glances at me over his shoulder. My next breath catches in my chest as he steps to the side and a face I believed to rest among the stars appears.

"My Queen!"

Nuelle.

Icy surprise drenches me as she runs across the chamber and crushes me in her embrace. If the overwhelming scent of jasmine didn't fill my nose, I'd believe her tight hold on me was a phantom touch.

The corners of my eyes sting as Felix appears over Nuelle's shoulder. His features soften as he takes the bouquet from my hand that's wrapped around my lady's maid's waist. The sharp angles of his face melt beneath a warmth I've long forgotten.

"Are you well?" she asks after a long moment. Her hands slide down my arms as she takes a step back to examine me.

"I'm fine. H-how are you here?" I quickly swipe away the blasted tears that fall from my eyes.

The corners of her eyes crinkle as she beams at me. "After ensuring the soldiers weren't diddling about, this mate of yours arranged for my travel." Her smile stretches impossibly further as she twists around to glance at Felix. "Now, it seems we have a ball to get you ready for?"

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"Stars, this place has changed you." I frown. Giving me no time to decipher her meaning, she goes on. "Your skin glows, your hair is more lustrous. Risian and its king agree with you."

My frown morphs into a scowl as Nuelle bends and fluffs the hem of my favorite burgundy ball gown. Blessedly, my lady's maid had the foresight to pack various pieces from my closet in Minalis, including ten of my preferred gowns, silk chemises, and my favorite satin slippers.

"Felix has done nothing but weaken me."

Her hands still as she glances up at me. "Weaken you?"

I sigh. "In less than a week, he's undone the greatest parts of me. With the mirror soul bond, I'm no longer a pillar. I'm in ruins."

Straightening, her features soften as her weathered hands cradle my face. "Your mind's led you astray."

There's a gentleness in her amber eyes as she speaks. "It's often the path we fear most, filled with an abundance of treachery and heartache. But feeling is the true meaning of bravery, child."

Something inside of my chest clenches, her words wrapping around the organ beneath my rib cage. Being a queen for five centuries, I've been called by many titles, but brave has never been one of them. Given the many years Nuelle has seen come and go, however, I can't help but wonder what will come of my life should I allow myself to continue on this path.

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Once Nuelle is satisfied there's no wrinkle or crease to be found in my crimson gown, Thorin leads me to the Great Hall.

Gooseflesh rises on my arms as the cool air that seems to be customary for a Risian night settles over the Selenic Palace. I frown, recalling the last time I was being led down this corridor. Seeing that Felix hasn't made mention of Warwick in the days that have passed, I assume my former guard still remains among the living. Cruel as it may be, I can't help but to be grateful that it was merely a tongue he lost.

For you, and only for you, do I bargain. I brush aside Felix's echoing words in my mind as the towering doors to the hall come into view.

My steps preen with the confidence of a queen, every stride I take elegant and unhurried as the doors open and the Great Hall falls silent. Runes that represent the mirror soul bond are carved into the pewter stone columns that sit in the shadowed corners of the room. Chandeliers similar to those in the entrance hall dangle over the four long, cherry wood tables in the center of the hall.

I'm unshakeable as I meet the eyes of those whose hands and conversations are frozen mid-air, their lips and tongues not needed to convey the judgment they pass upon me. The tension in the room is palpable, and I'm aware of the faces that would wish me harm.

Wicked and cruel, they may whisper, but the simple truth of the matter is that the people of Minalis have expressed similar beliefs about my character time and time again. It's most certainly not bothersome to me now.

I'm anchored to this time and space when my gaze flits ahead, returning the bitter stares of each lord and lady seated along the sides of the head table. Finally, finally, my restless soul seems to say. The thread, taut with tension, eases when I meet the bright azure eyes transfixed on me.

My breath hitches as he stands in one fluid motion and descends the small staircase two steps at a time, his eyes never straying from me. The stars fall and the sky collapses as he comes to a stop before me and his hands move to cradle my face.

"There's nothing more beautiful in all the realm," he breathes.

Just as upon the battlefield, whatever he sees on my face thaws his steely glaciers. The pure, golden flecks of starlight that swim in the depths of his eyes ricochet through my chest. As a well of emotions arises in me and becomes overwhelming, and I avert my gaze.

It's only then I realize that the music hasn't resumed, and those who occupy the hall watch us closely. Gathering what little dignity I have left, I slip the mask of a queen into place.

I'm numb as my legs move of their own volition. Wordlessly, he pauses at my side and offers his hand when I take a step.

I'm a prisoner here. I don't belong here.

Jutting my chin out and straightening my spine, I brush past him with the reminder that I am a queen. Not a beloved one, to be sure, but a crown rests atop my brow the same as his.

Felix pulls out the seat beside him in a silent command for me to sit. A bowl of what I assume to be soup awaits me. While I have no desire to spend an evening so close to the Risian King, it seems I'm left with little choice.

As I take my seat, Lady Doranton smiles and gives me a small wave from the right side of the table. I don't bother to look to the left.

Dipping my spoon into the fragrant red bisque, I feel eyes upon me. Steam rises into the air, and I raise it, blowing until I'm sure it's not going to scald my throat. The rich flavor of tomato greets my tongue, warming my belly. While I despise every breath I take in this damnable place, starving myself will not aid in my plans for escape.

Picking up the fresh bread and dipping it into the bisque, my mind turns over and over, desperate to formulate a solid plan.

The plan that took me back to Minalis was borne of fear and panic. I hadn't considered all the obstacles that were sure to stand in my way. I had a meager amount of food and only a light cloak to keep me warm as I wandered through the dense forest. Given the circumstances, I suppose I got farther than I should have. Though Solei was under siege and my people were rioting in the streets, I somehow managed to make it back to the Amber Palace.

The thing that I can't quite figure out though, is why Felix allowed me to escape? Why lose men on the battlefield when he could have simply outnumbered us from the start. It doesn't make sense.

I have to be smarter this time. More importantly, I have to find a way to stay hidden once I do escape. It will be no small feat escaping from the King of Risian's grasp in the first place, but where I go afterwards is of far more importance.

"What are you thinking about?"

My head snaps up to attention when his low, gravelly voice rumbles from my right. Though it's only the second time he's spoken since I took my seat beside him, the danger to be found behind his tone skates over my skin. One question, loaded with so much more than simple pleasantries shared over a meal.

I slowly angle my head toward him. His frame is lax, his ankle resting on his knee, creating the picture of a complacent ruler. The charcoal doublet he wears showcases the lean muscles of a warrior, the shade striking against his cropped, ebony hair. Confidence radiates from him, the command of respect oozing with each breath he takes. A stray lock falls forward into his face and I fight the urge to brush it from his brow.

His confidence is a false truth. His arrogant posturing is no different than the unfeeling mask that I bear. I swallow the remainder of soup in my mouth. He tracks the movement down my throat and his eyes darken.

I gently set my silver spoon back down on the table and wipe the corners of my mouth before speaking. "Nothing."

Seeing that I have no interest in glimpsing the unspoken words of devotion in his eyes, I quickly look away.

I remember all too well the enchantment, the magic to be found in young love. It had once pulled me under, the stars' approval pouring down in tears of light that encapsulated my soul when our bodies came together. It had been the first time I'd ever felt alive, the glow of the bond transforming the deepened hues of darkness into the most vibrant shades of life with every reverent touch.

I loved him, freely and without condition.

It was no different for him. I'd long been the focus of his attention. While my love had been calm, like the smoothest waters that glide through a stream, his had been anything but. It was a droplet meant for the sea that grew with each sharp retort of my tongue, every laugh he'd begrudgingly pulled from deep in my belly. His love crested and crashed into me, so fervent and ineradicable, that I'd been content to drown.

He pries his fingers from the stem of his goblet one by one and angles his body towards me. Vibrations reverberate steadily from the bond when his knee brushes my thigh. Gooseflesh erupts across my skin with the brief moment of contact.

Staring at me unabashedly, I silently curse the stars when a wolfish grin spreads across his lips. I choose to feign disinterest, picking up my goblet and swirling the sweet wine around. I breathe an unspoken sigh of relief when the doors to the great hall open and long, sable tresses appear.

Sianna.

Although I am a prisoner in this place, I'm immediately at ease with the sight of a familiar face. When our gazes connect, a wide grin splits across her face. Despite the others that surround her, who I assume are ladies of the court, she only spares her brother a glance before bounding toward me.

The corners of my lips threaten to twitch upwards when I take note of the burgundy gown that clings to her waist like a second skin. Jewels of glittering onyx encrust the bodice, cascading down to the gauzy skirts of the gown. The neckline creeps up to clasp elegantly along the column of her throat, enhancing her olive skin tone. Each step she takes reveals the high slit on the side of the gown, exposing the toned expanse of her leg.

I bring the goblet to my lips, satisfaction filling me with the colors she's chosen. Respect blooms in my chest, as the statement she is making in her home does not escape me.

My gaze flickers back to the women she has left in her wake. Varying expressions of surprise splash across their features when their eyes follow Sianna's path to the head table. I raise my chin slightly when they gape at me. The flashes of resentment that twist sweet Larkin's face are especially pleasing.

The three of them shoot me icy glares before turning to whisper behind their hands to one another. I truly think I may be going mad when a laugh bubbles in my throat. Or the amount of wine I've consumed is beginning to addle my brain. I have no qualms with either option.

I'm not given the opportunity to weigh the possibilities as a huff of air coasts across my cheek. A low rumble of laughter sounds, and my body can't help but to gravitate toward it.

When I turn my eyes to the Risian King, his chest heaves with silent laughter. I narrow my eyes upon him when he drops his head, hiding the dimples that appear with the real smile that plays on his lips. I can only imagine that he would take great amusement in the situation he bestows upon me. I don't allow shame to find me though, seeing that if it were not for his crusade, I would not be here. I'm not a weak woman. The hundred venomous retorts that are on the tip of my tongue fall silent when he raises his head once more.

The skin around his eyes crinkles, and mirth dances in his eyes. Beneath the table, his fingers graze lightly across my knuckles. His features fall when I scowl in spite of the steady thrum that omits from the bond. I don't react as his thumb comes to sweep in slow circles on the back of my hand.

I resist the urge to pull away when Sianna ascends the steps before us. "Ella!"

I'm given little more than a moment's notice to stand before she is sweeping me into a crushing embrace. Though the bond protests, I find myself thankful for the formidable fae once more as the gesture forces Felix's touch away.

She untangles our limbs and takes a step back. She sighs with contentment, and visible relief smoothes the creasing of her brow.

Amidst the dissent that comprises my new life, I haven't given thought to Sianna's wellbeing. Selfish it may be, but guilt doesn't fill me with the realization. The remnants of what was once my life lies astray in a land I no longer call home.

She clasps my hands tightly within her own and pulls me from my thoughts. "You look stunning, Ella," she says softly.

I duck my chin in thanks, the lid of the neat trunk that the Risian Princess resides in creaking open slightly.

I stiffen when her eyes flicker over my shoulder. A half second later, she quirks a brow and then I feel him at my back. Alarm bells of warning sound in my mind when a strong arm slides around my waist. I stiffen further when his chin comes to rest on my shoulder and his delicious scent fills my senses.

"She does, doesn't she?" The bond purrs at our proximity and the suggestive inflection of his tone, begging for more.

I dare not turn my head an inch in fear of what the thread in my chest may do.

Sianna's gaze becomes embers of steel. "Brother."

Curiosity sparks in me when a boom of laughter filters from the other end of the table. The fae that sit among us are seemingly oblivious as my gaze wanders to each of them. A strange sensation of familiarity fills me when I reach the woman sitting on the left side furthest from us.

The spots of age that mar her elegant, yet weathered hands tell me she is no young woman. Silver tresses streaked with white tumble down the back of her simple, gray gown. Our gazes collide when the musicians strike up a lively ballad and she lifts her head. The sense of familiarity intensifies with the bright blue eyes that stare back at me. Her lips tilt into a soft smile that bathes her sharp features with gentleness.

I tear my gaze away when warmth seeps through my gown and a rough palm comes to rest on the small of my back.

The older woman vanishes from the corner of my vision, and when I glance back, her seat is abandoned.

Ellesandra,

I hope the past moon has brought you happiness. In a strange twist of fate, this moon was cruel, yet kind to me. I saw you.

You surprised me when you purchased the pink lilies. I always believed the white orchids or blue hyacinth's to be your favorites. In truth, the lilies suit you though. They're a similar color to the hibiscus flowers you used to enjoy picking during summers in Minalis. By the time the sunset, your braid would be laced with the dozens of pink blooms that wouldn't fit in the overflowing wicker basket.

What I wouldn't give to carry the basket again.