Total pages in book: 129
Estimated words: 119158 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 596(@200wpm)___ 477(@250wpm)___ 397(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 119158 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 596(@200wpm)___ 477(@250wpm)___ 397(@300wpm)
“The party?” I glanced over my shoulder to see a wicked grin spreading across the elf’s face.
“Big parties are an excellent time to go snooping for clues.”
Yes, snooping for clues. I didn’t trust King Beldroth. And I trusted Queen Sumina even less. They had to know something about Orian’s death, and we were going to uncover what it was.
Chapter 18
Surprise of a Lifetime
Never doubt the power of a hot bath, good food, and a new set of snazzy clothes.
While the elf servants might not have been too keen about making a suit of clothes for a human, they still turned out spectacular. And really, I looked damn good in black, like some wicked rogue about to slash and seduce his way through a ball.
Of course, just as I was feeling good about myself, Nylian had to step out of the bathroom wrapped in a pale-green suit that perfectly complimented his golden hair and bright-green eyes. I might have choked on air a bit as I tried to remember how to close my mouth. Until now, his clothes had been finely made but simple and functional. Not much call for delicate stitching and fabrics when you’re going to be running through the woods.
“You’re like a prince from a storybook,” I murmured, unable to tear my eyes away.
“So are you.”
I snorted and found the power to turn away from him, but he caught my arm and dragged me over to the full-length mirror in one corner. He placed me in front of it and stood behind me, smiling. “Remember that we are two very different creatures. Elves are about grace and elegance. Dark colors are for every day. Pale pastels like fragile flowers are for social events. Humans value power and strength in all things. Especially among the men. You embody strength, power, and virility.”
I grinned at his reflection. “You’re saying I’m going to stand out like a sore thumb? That I’ll be an outcast?”
“Yes, which is exactly how I want it. I don’t want them hitting on you. You’re mine.”
With a wave of my hand, I stepped away from the mirror. “Yes, yes, I’m your pet. I promise to stick close to you and follow your cues all night. I swear.”
Nylian looked as if he were going to say something, but he just shook his head. After adjusting his clothes one last time in the glass, he returned his attention to me. “If we’re separated during the night, I want you to locate the king and queen, then put as much distance between yourself and them. They will be the most dangerous people in the room, but not the only ones. If you find yourself in a situation where you feel uncomfortable and can’t reach me, return to our room. I’ll come find you.”
“Got it.” That was an order I wouldn’t argue with. “Speaking of…the king and queen…is it just me or does he seem a little…” I paused, not sure how to put it. Instead, I tapped on the side of my head. In short, the man wasn’t all there, but I wasn’t saying those words out loud even if we were alone.
Nylian closed the distance between us and his nimble fingers lightly fiddled with my tunic and cape, even though both were perfect. “The true power holder in Galinaes is Queen Sumina. This kingdom has been a matriarchy for several generations now, ever since Queen Pyria seized power. The crown has been handed down to princesses and they’ve been wed to men who could be manipulated and controlled. King Beldroth is nothing more than a figurehead and troublemaker, but don’t underestimate him. He will take your life as easily as the queen if you cross him.”
“Because I’m a human,” I finished, his warning sinking its icy claws into my flesh.
Nylian smiled, but it felt forced and didn’t come close to touching his eyes. “But everything is going to be fine because you’re going to be near me. It should be a few hours of mingling. Then, when everyone has become intoxicated, we will slip away to do some snooping. I doubt anyone will even notice we’re missing.”
Despite Nylian’s reassurances and my stylish new clothes, anxiety bubbled within my stomach. I was an introvert at heart. As curious as I was to see what constituted an elf party thrown by royalty, most of me wanted to stay in our room, eat more food, and find a book to read. I wouldn’t have been opposed to staring at the ceiling and talking to Nylian about nothing at all.
Somewhere during our twisting journey, I’d grown comfortable with the man. We were friends, and my brain didn’t feel the need to worry about every little thing that came out of my mouth with him. I could share the same space with him and be at ease.