by B. T. Narro
“She’s nothing more than a friend to me, but I fear she feels something more.”
“Yes, she has made that quite clear to me. You’ve probably realized by now that my daughter needs to learn some humility, and I think you’re the best one to teach it to her given her affection for you. Since she became a princess, she has received many marriage offers. Unfortunately, it has gone to her head.”
“May I ask why you haven’t accepted any of these offers?”
“Because they are too old, too unimportant, or she doesn’t like them.”
“I see, but how can I help?”
“My wife and I have spoiled her, I will admit. She thinks the heart of every man already belongs to her because so many have come forward. Just rebuke her affection as you have, but, and I’m deathly serious here, do not use her against me again, Jon, or you will regret it. Never again.”
It was a threat that shook me to my core. “I swear, sire. Never again.”
Eventually he led me out of the dungeon and back into the courtyard. I was pleased to see all of my peers were gathered nearby, Leon included. I even saw Grufaeragar standing behind everyone with a big smile on his lizard face.
“He’s yours, instructor,” the king said as he walked back into the great hall. “His punishment will commence later.”
I was surprised when everyone applauded as I walked toward them. I felt my cheeks grow hot.
Many asked about my punishment right away, so I explained it to them.
“Not too bad,” Michael said as he shook my hand and patted my back.
Kataleya hugged me right after.
Grufaeragar slapped me on the back as we were parting. I stumbled but caught myself before falling. “They tell Grufaeragar what happen! Great fight, human Jon! I want fight but no horse. King make me stay. I’m too important! No hurt Grufaeragar!”
“You are too important,” I agreed with a smile. This would’ve been all wrong if he’d gone and been killed in the fight. I was glad the king had convinced him to stay.
“Soon I go home,” Grufaeragar said. “I tell krepps that humans here have much honor. Humans in Rohaer much dishonor!”
“When are you leaving?” I asked.
“I not know. Soon.”
“All right, just warn us before.”
“I will.”
“Jon.” Reuben had his hand out toward me.
I shook it with pride.
“I wanted to go, however I still must recover before I can fight again.” The spark of his eyes showed his desperation for me to believe him.
“I’m glad you didn’t force it.” He might not have told the king that he would have to be hung as well if I was, but I appreciated that he at least had wanted to fight with me.
Remi seemed to come out of nowhere, throwing her arms around my torso for a quick hug with the side of her head pressed against my chest.
“I’m glad you’re back,” she said quietly.
She slipped away before I had a chance to return it.
“Thank you,” I told her.
Charlie squeezed me in the exact same way right after. “I’m also glad you’re back!” he said with a lot more enthusiasm.
“Thank you,” I said as I patted his back.
Eden embraced me next. “How was your trip to the dungeon?” she asked sarcastically. “Meet any nice people?”
“No. And the view was terrible.”
She laughed.
I saw Aliana eyeing me. She approached and opened her arms. We embraced each other, Aliana holding on tightly.
“Really glad to have you back,” she said.
“Thank you, Ali. I’m glad to be back.”
“All right, enough of all that,” Leon announced as she let go. “We have a lot of work to do, sorcerers.”
It was the first time he had called us that.
END OF BOOK 1
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