10. Aura

CHAPTER 10

Aura

A ura was still reeling from Nox's confession. From her own heart that felt like it would leap out of her chest at the words. She had been fighting with herself for so long, but her heart was always his. A place where she felt calm and secure, where she could truly be herself. They had traveled on a hidden trail, far off the main one of merchants and travelers. Riding as far as they could before resting the horses and themselves under the cover of the dense forest.

They would arrive in Ancher soon, only a day or two journey left of this last leg. The gothic Evanthian castle would be before them sooner than she was ready for. Esmeralda had warned Aura of the whispers of The Red King of Evanthia. Whispers said he had descended into madness and cruelty.

The sun hung low on the horizon, casting long shadows through the dense forest. Aura walked through the clearing, her mind drifting in the quiet warmth of the afternoon. Her gaze fell upon the delicate glow of a light sprite hovering near the edge of the trees. It pulsed softly, as though carrying a message.

The light sprite darted forward, stopping inches from her face. "For you, Princess," it chimed, its voice like the whisper of bells. Aura extended her hand, and the sprite dropped a letter, shimmering faintly with the insignia of The Hollow.

She frowned, recognizing the seal of her brother—the prince. But why would he send a letter through a light sprite, especially here, when they were so far from the capital?

Aura broke the seal, her curiosity piqued, and unrolled the parchment.

Captain,

I hope you are well, along with my sister. Kyeria tells me to not act rashly given your confession's in regards to my sister. So I tell you this, you are the most loyal kind of man, and I trust you to protect her, not because I had commanded it long ago to assign you as her personal bodyguard, but because if she is a fraction to you as Kyeria is to me. I know you will give your life for hers without even a breath of question.

I have information brought back from the King, The dragons have deemed Evanthia a greater evil than we could have imagined. Reports are far worse than we thought. Your mission is of the utmost importance now. Any information you gain undercover could help us in the coming years. The elders have seen a war far greater than that of the last in the coming decade. We must free our people and bring them back to keep them safe as we prepare for the future.

– Prince Kellian

Aura's fingers tightened around the letter, the paper crinkling under the pressure. Her heart thudded painfully against her ribs as specific words sank in. Assigned? Commanded? Her brother had assigned Nox to her side, it had not been a choice of his own will or heart?

A sick feeling rose in her chest, twisting her stomach into knots. She had believed that their connection had been born from something real, something pure. And now, to discover that he had been ordered to be by her side—it made her question everything.

She turned sharply on her heel, her breath quickening as she marched back toward the camp. The fire crackled softly in the distance, and there was Nox, sharpening his blade with calm precision, his eyes lifting the moment she entered the clearing. He smiled, a brief warmth crossing his face as he rose to greet her.

But she wasn't here for smiles.

She threw the letter at his feet, her voice tight. "What is this?"

Nox looked from the letter to her, his face hardening slightly as he bent to pick it up. His brows furrowed as he read the contents. When he finished, he remained silent for a moment, his jaw set in a grim line.

"You knew," Aura said, her voice low but trembling with emotion. "All this time, you've been my guard—because my brother ordered you to be? You are with me not of your own free will, but of what? Convenience?"

Nox raised his gaze to meet hers, a storm of emotions in his eyes. "Aura, it's not?—"

"Not what?" she snapped, stepping forward. "Not what it looks like? I thought—" She paused, struggling to keep her voice steady. "I thought we meant something to each other. But now, I find out you were following orders?"

His face softened, and he stepped closer, though she recoiled slightly. "No, Aura, listen to me. Yes, your brother assigned me as your guard. It was my duty to protect you. But my feelings for you—what grew between us—was never a part of that duty."

Aura's eyes narrowed, her disbelief clear. "And yet, you never told me the truth. How am I supposed to believe you now?"

Nox's voice grew desperate as he reached for her hands, though she pulled them away. "Because it's the truth. Aura, you have to understand—I'd follow you anywhere. I would lay down my life for you, not because of some order, but because you mean everything to me."

She stood there, her chest heaving, her mind racing with conflicting thoughts. "You were supposed to protect me, and yet you kept this from me?"

Nox's expression was pained, his voice low. "I didn't tell you because I didn't want you to think… that my loyalty was tied to a command. It's not. I swear to you, Aura, my heart belongs to you. I'd die for you. I'd kill for you. Not because it's my duty, but because I love you."

His words hung heavy in the air, and for a long moment, neither of them spoke. Aura's heart wavered, caught between the betrayal she felt and the depth of Nox's raw sincerity. His eyes pleaded with her, and despite the hurt, she could see the truth in them—the man who had held her on all those quiet nights, who had whispered promises of love into the darkness, wasn't just fulfilling an order.

She swallowed hard, her voice softening just a little. "Then why didn't you tell me sooner?"

Nox lowered his head. "I didn't want to burden you with it. I was afraid… afraid that if you knew, it would make you question everything between us. And now, I see I was wrong for keeping it from you."

Aura looked away, blinking back the tears that threatened to fall. She didn't know whether to scream or collapse into his arms. The weight of the revelation crushed her, but somewhere beneath the hurt, she could still feel the love they had built. After what felt like an eternity, she finally spoke, her voice barely above a whisper. "I don't know if I can forgive you for this… not yet."

Nox nodded, his voice gentle but unwavering. "I understand. I'll be by your side, not because I was ordered to, but because I chose to. I choose you over anything else in this world or the next."

Aura slept restlessly that night under the stars. Nox had leaned against the trees, keeping watch the whole night. They had not switched, she had not offered for him to rest, she simply let her frustration brew and fester. His face was solemn when she gazed over at him the few times she flipped over. The fur blanket was warm around her. The horses tied up to the nearest tree. She let herself be angry, let her heart mourn and feel it all until morning. When the sun broke over the horizon she squared her shoulders, dusted off her clothes, remade her pack, and walked over to Nox. He looked worse for wear. Dark clouded eyes, the lack of sleep evident. She glared at him as fiercely as she could, walking up close enough for their chests to touch. She tilted her head up, to look at him. He was so much larger than her, she forced herself to not feel small. Then she shoved her hands into his chest once. Then twice. Letting out a small guttural umph.

Nox saw the walls around Aura's cracking, saw her forgiveness setting in. The smirk lazily appeared over his mouth was evidence enough. He knew her, knew her heart and her mind. They had been through too much at this point. Together.

She crossed her arms and glared again, lips turned down with great effort.

"I am still mad at you," Aura grumbled. Nox only nodded as if to say, as you should be.

Then she grabbed the front of his linen tunic, pulling him to her. She reached for him, dragging him down to meet her. Her lips collided with his in a desperate plea.

She was so mad.

But she knew this, knew that hatred and anger was what fueled them from the beginning. And while they had grown past that, the anger turned to annoyance, then to respect, then to admiration and now to love.

"I love you too, you fucking idiot."

As they arrived in Ancher, the sun was setting, and the last golden spirals of light gave the village roofs and cobblestone streets a warm, golden hue. Nox dropped off the horses at an old inn on the outskirts of town, as directed from the kind woman in Levin. They continued on foot, hoods covering their faces as they walked through the town square. A market was starting to set up, carts being rolled out.

A night market.

Nox's keen eyes scanned the surroundings, ever alert despite the relaxed demeanor he held. Aura, her royal poise hidden beneath a simple cloak and tunic, walked beside him, her eyes wide with curiosity and excitement.

The town was picturesque, with charming houses and a bustling square. It wasn't long before they arrived at a modest, ivy-clad house. The front door creaked open before they could even knock, revealing an elderly man with a bushy beard and a broad smile.

"Nox! By the stars, it's been ages!" The man's voice was booming with genuine joy.

Nox grinned and embraced the man. "Good to see you, Galen. This is Ror, my..." he hesitated, thinking quickly, "...my traveling companion."

Aura stepped forward, offering a warm smile and a polite nod. "Pleasure to meet you."

Galen's eyes twinkled with amusement. "A pleasure indeed. Come in, come in! I've been dying for some good company. The tavern's not far from here, and I've got a feeling tonight's going to be a good one."

They followed into the house, which was filled with the comforting aroma of roast meat and freshly baked bread. The evening meal was a lively affair, with Galen recounting tales of his younger days, and Nox chiming in with his own stories, each embellished with enough exaggeration to make the tales entertaining.

After dinner, they made their way to the local tavern, a bustling place with a low ceiling, wooden beams, and the familiar sound of clinking mugs and boisterous laughter. The tavern's interior was warm, with a crackling fireplace that added to the inviting atmosphere.

As they entered, the chatter and laughter of the patrons seemed to swell, and Nox led Aura and Galen to a table in a corner. Aura's eyes sparkled with amusement as she took in the lively scene.

"Well, this place has more character than a royal ball," she said, her voice low to avoid drawing attention.

Nox chuckled. "And considerably less etiquette. Just how I like it."

Galen winked and signaled to a passing waitress. "Three ales and a plate of the finest sausages you've got!"

Aura nudged Nox playfully. "Is this how you treat all your guests, or am I getting special treatment?"

Nox leaned closer, his voice teasing. "You're getting the special treatment. I've got to make sure you're properly introduced to the joys of the common folk."

Galen chuckled heartily. "And trust me, they'll make sure you have a memorable time. You're with the right people for that."

The ales arrived, frothy and golden, and the sausages followed, sizzling and fragrant. They clinked their mugs together, and Nox lifted his in a toast. "To old friends and new adventures."

Aura grinned and raised her mug. They sipped their drinks, the warmth of the ale spreading through them. Galen wandered off, talking to other villagers near the bar. Nox leaned back, a playful glint in his eyes. His voice low, "So, how's the life of a commoner treating you so far?"

Aura laughed, the sound bright and clear. "It's a refreshing change. No courtly intrigues, just good food, good drink, and good company."

The night continued with laughter, songs, and a friendly game of dice with the locals. The tavern's atmosphere was infectious, and the worries of their mission seemed to melt away, if only for a few hours. Aura and Nox reveled in the anonymity and the camaraderie, their usual roles of princess and knight replaced by that of carefree travelers.

"I think this might be one of the best nights I've had in a long time," Aura admitted, her voice soft but filled with contentment.

Nox looked at her with a genuine smile. "You and me both."

He clicked his mug against hers, his eyes meeting hers with a tenderness that spoke of deeper feelings. "To us, and to whatever comes next."

The laughter and music continued around them, but for a moment, it was as if they were in their own world. Aura felt the anxiety of the rest of the mission bubbling up inside of her, but instead took another swig of her ale, pushing it back down.

Aura pushed herself up from her seat, and walked to the bar to get another drink. As she waited, she felt a presence behind her—someone too close, invading her personal space. She turned to find a burly man with an unsettling grin, his eyes glinting with a predatory gleam.

"Why don't you join me for a drink?" he slurred, his breath heavy with the scent of ale and something more unpleasant.

Aura took a step back, trying to keep her voice steady. "No, thank you. I'm waiting for someone."

The man's grin widened, and he stepped closer, pressing his body against hers. "Come on, don't be like that. You look like you could use some company."

Aura's heart raced as she tried to move away, but the man's hand shot out, gripping her wrist with a forceful grasp. Her eyes scanned the room for Nox, but the crowd and the dim light made it difficult to see clearly. Anger rose as she struggled to free herself, her voice rising in annoyance. "Get your hands off me, before I remove them from your body!"

Nox, who had been engaged in a conversation with Galen at a table, noticed the sudden commotion. His eyes immediately locked onto Aura's figure, a drunken male with hands on her, and his expression hardened. He stood up, his movements quick and purposeful as he made his way across the room.

In a swift, powerful stride, Nox reached the man, his presence commanding attention. "Get your hands off her," he growled, his voice a low, dangerous rumble.

The man looked up, his grin faltering as he saw the fury in Nox's eyes. Before he could react, Nox grabbed him by the collar and yanked him away from Aura, sending him stumbling backward. The man crashed into a nearby table, knocking over a pitcher of ale and scattering patrons.

"What's the meaning of this?" the man spat, trying to regain his balance and composure.

Nox's reply was a punch to the man's face, a brutal blow that sent him reeling. The tavern fell into a stunned silence, the laughter and music fading as onlookers watched the unfolding scene with a mix of shock and fascination. The man tried to rise, his hand going for a weapon hidden beneath his coat, but Nox was quicker. With a fierce determination, he grabbed the man's arm, twisting it behind his back and slamming him against the wall. "You think you can just touch people like that?" Nox's voice was a harsh whisper, full of anger and a promise of more pain if needed.

The man struggled, his face contorted in pain, but Nox's grip was unrelenting. Nox delivered a series of precise, powerful blows, each one designed to incapacitate rather than kill. The man's attempts to fight back were feeble and quickly overpowered. With a final, punishing punch to the jaw, Nox sent him crashing to the floor.

The tavern erupted into murmurs and gasps, and Galen, who had been watching with a mixture of worry and approval, stepped forward. "That's enough."

Nox, breathing heavily, glared down at the man, who was now curled up on the floor, groaning in pain. "You're lucky I'm in a good mood," Nox spat, his voice dripping with contempt. "Stay away from her. And don't come back."

He turned to Aura, who had watched the scene with wide eyes, her face pale but resolute. She took a hesitant step towards him, her gaze filled with gratitude and concern. "Are you alright?"

Nox's expression softened as he approached her, his anger giving way to a deep, genuine concern. "I'm fine. Are you?"

Aura nodded, though her hands trembled slightly. "Fine."

Nox gently cupped her face, his touch tender as he searched her eyes for any sign of lingering distress. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean for things to get out of hand, but I couldn't stand to see him touching you like that."

Aura managed a small smile, placing her hands over his. "I would have slammed his body into the table same as you, but I thought we were trying to lay low, Nox."

Galen approached, offering a reassuring nod. "Let's get you both out of here. Before the lot of you attract any more trouble."

Nox nodded, a protective hand on Aura's back. The patrons of the tavern slowly resumed their conversations, the excitement of the altercation giving way to the usual revelry.

The moon hung low and heavy in the sky as Nox and Aura made their way back to the inn Galen directed them to. He left them with a bag filled with clothes for them, their new disguises. That of people of the court. Aura was rather excited to get rid of these travel and dirt ridden clothes and put on something fit for a ball.

Now, as they settled into the quiet comfort of their rented room, the weight of the evening's events seemed to press heavily on them. The room was dimly lit by a single oil lamp, its flickering light casting gentle shadows on the walls. Aura sat on the edge of the bed, her fingers brushing against her disheveled dress as she tried to steady her breath. Nox stood a few steps away, his knuckles still stained with blood and his expression a mixture of concern and lingering anger.

He approached her slowly, the fierce protector softened by the tenderness of the moment. With careful movements, he crouched in front of her, his gaze never leaving her face. His hands, rough from countless battles, were surprisingly gentle as he cupped her cheeks. The contrast between his strength and his tenderness was both comforting and disarming.

"Aura," he began, his voice a soft murmur that seemed to resonate with both regret and affection. "I'm sorry. I should have?—"

She placed a hand over his, stilling his words. "I am fine, all is well." And she felt it as so, she wished to go back and punch the idiot drunk herself.

Nox shook his head slightly, the intensity in his eyes giving way to a deep, heartfelt sincerity. "You're my moon, Aura. In the darkest of nights, you're the light that guides me. You're strong, more than you know. And I couldn't stand to see you hurt."

Her eyes softened, and she reached out to touch his face, her fingers brushing over the bruised skin of his cheek. He leaned into her touch, closing his eyes for a brief moment as he savored the connection between them.

When he opened his eyes again, "I would rip the world apart, piece by piece, to get you back, my moon."

Aura felt her insides warm, her heart flutter. She hadn't known it to ever flutter except here with this man who had always been so stoic, so easily to throw back sharp jabs with her. This side of him, this gentleness was so at odds with the bloodied knuckles and even his words. And she loved him for it.