Allyssa leaned back on the bench, her chest feeling warm and her head pounding. Her foot hit something. Glancing under the table, she saw something had fallen on the floor. When she reached down, she picked up a book and a scrap of material—one of Mayra’s handkerchiefs. The book was about a woman who fought for the king in his army of men. She set it on the table, sure she’d loaned it to Mayra seasons ago. Mayra had returned it—she was certain of it. So how had her book and Mayra’s handkerchief gotten on the floor?
“Everyone is watching you,” Nathenek said, recapturing her attention.
“I know.”
“You’re not doing a good enough job.”
“What?” She sat up straighter.
“If we’re going to pull this off, you need to act the part. You’re marrying Odar. You’re smitten with Odar. You’re too stupid to suspect he’s using you.”
She folded her arms. “I’m not going to act like an idiot.”
“I’m not asking you to. I’m telling you to pretend you’re in love with Odar and stop publicly mooning at Kerdan. He has his own part to play.”
“Can’t we just kill them all and get it over with?” She put her elbows on the table and massaged her temple. Playing these dangerous games was taking its toll on her.
“I wish we could.” He chuckled. “To be the leader we need to be, there is an order to how things must be done. Talks first, assassinations second.”
“Fine. I’ll pretend to be a naive woman in love with Odar.”
“And you’ll stop watching Kerdan. Even when you think no one is paying attention, someone is.”
“Very well.”
“Remember, act as nonthreatening as possible. Talk about clothes, hairstyles, and things along those lines. Give them what they expect, and that’s what they’ll see.”
“Anything else?” she asked.
He leaned back on the bench, assessing her. “How are things going between you and Savenek?”
“They’re going well.” Especially now that they weren’t trying to outdo each other. “Why do you ask?”
“I’m worried about him. He’s had to deal with a lot over the last few weeks. He’s not as tough as you think.”
She found that hard to believe. Savenek was not only raised by Nathenek, but he was also in the Brotherhood. He was as tough as they came.
Nathenek’s face was serious. “Keep an eye out for him.”
“I will.”
“He won’t ask for help, even if he needs it.”
As much as she hated to admit it, she understood not wanting to ask for help.
A soldier ran into the library. “Your Highness! Telmena has just arrived. Your parents want you outside.”
As Allyssa made her way to the front of the castle, she spotted Kerdan striding along one of the corridors, his men close behind him. They were quite a remarkable sight. All four wore drab pants and tunics with furs draped over their shoulders. Kerdan also wore a simple crown to show his status, but other than that, no one would ever know he was the king of Russek.
Allyssa tried not to smile as she watched people practically falling over themselves to get out of the Russek men’s way. Then she remembered her recent conversation with Nathenek and forced herself to look away.
“Sister,” Savenek said as he came up alongside her, his hands clasped behind his back.
“Brother,” she replied, playing along with him.
“Shall we go meet our most esteemed guests together?” His eyes sparkled with mischief.
“We shall.” She tried not to laugh.
He held out his arm, and she took it. They made their way to the front of the castle where Rema and Darmik stood waiting.
Several carriages were parked in the courtyard; however, no one had exited yet. A few more carriages rolled in, parking alongside the ones already there.
“This is a bit extreme,” Rema mumbled.
“It’s just a show of wealth,” Darmik replied.
“Or they could be transporting a lot of soldiers or a copious amount of poison in those carriages,” Savenek pointed out.
Everyone looked at him.
“What?” he asked innocently. “I’m just stating the possibilities.”
Her brother analyzed things differently than she did. Sometimes Allyssa wondered what was going on inside that head of his.
Odar came running out of the castle. “Sorry I’m late.” He stood next to Allyssa, kissing her cheek.
She released Savenek, forced a smile on her face, and said, “I’m just glad you’re here.” Reaching out, she took hold of his arm, hugging it. She wished he hadn’t kissed her—even though it was only on the cheek. It made her uncomfortable, and it wasn’t necessary.
“My parents wish to have tea with you this afternoon.”
“That will be lovely,” she said, trying not to cringe at the thought. She didn’t want to spend any time with them.
“Your parents are invited as well.”
“We’ll see,” Rema said. “Now that everyone has arrived, I’m going to call a meeting this afternoon. I don’t want these people here any longer than necessary.”
“I agree,” Savenek said. “The longer they’re here, the higher the likelihood something could go wrong.”
Savenek was always so pragmatic. Darmik was right to hand the army over to him.
Odar put his mouth close to Allyssa’s ear and whispered, “Relax. We want this fixed the right way since we will be dealing with these kingdoms for decades. It is better we come to an understanding now rather than have years of conflict.”
She took a deep breath. Odar was right. But it didn’t mean she had to like the role she played. Allyssa was eager for this entire ordeal to be over. “How long are we going to stand here?”
“Good question.” Darmik waved one of his soldiers over. “Find out where the royal family is. Either they exit the carriage within the next five minutes, or we’re going inside—even if it’s considered rude on our part. I will not have my wife standing here unnecessarily.”
“Yes, Your Majesty.” Hurrying over to one of the drivers, the soldier gestured he wanted a word.
“My parents confirmed my brother and his wife stayed in Telmena,” Odar said.
Excellent. At least they had that going for them. Now if only the king, queen, and prince would exit, they could get on with it. Thick clouds rolled in, concealing the sun. The chilly air held the promise of rain.
A third row of carriages rolled in. There had to be fifteen in all.
“You have got to be kidding me. This is worse than that production you put on,” Allyssa said, jabbing Odar in the side.
He chuckled. “That seems like a lifetime ago.”
Because it was.
A dozen soldiers exited from the first row. They surrounded one of the carriages in the third row. That had to be the one the royal family was traveling in. When the door swung open, a man descended. Allyssa didn’t know what she expected, but this was not it. The man was in his late sixties with gray hair. He wore what appeared to be tights on the bottom half of his legs with short, puffy pants on the top. His tunic was rather frilly, making the entire outfit seem feminine. Not at all imposing or intimidating.
Next, a woman exited. Her dress contained layers and layers of fabric. Allyssa wondered how the woman moved without falling over or getting stuck in a doorway. The top part of the dress was tight, her breasts bulging up and down as the she breathed. Her graying hair was artfully arranged on top of her head with flowers entwined throughout.
Another man followed her out. He appeared to be about thirty with dark hair and dark eyes. He wore clothing similar to the other gentleman’s.
The newcomers came before Rema and Darmik. One of the Telmena soldiers said, “His Royal Highness, King Metek, and Her Royal Highness, Queen Cora.” The king and queen bowed. “And their son, Prince Jem.” The prince bowed.
Darmik stepped forward. “It’s good to see you, cousin,” he said to Metek. “I’d like to
introduce my wife, Empress Rema; my son, Prince Savenek; and my daughter, Princess Allyssa. I’m sure you’ve already met Prince Odar of Fren.”
The informal way Darmik spoke surprised Allyssa. However, he must be doing it for a reason. She needed to make sure she played along. Obviously, the Telmena royal family was dressed in their best, trying to exude wealth.
“Father,” Allyssa said, “you forgot to say I’m engaged to Odar.”
“Ah, yes,” Darmik said with a smile. “But I’m sure they already knew that since they’re here for your wedding.”
Beaming, Allyssa gazed up at Odar. His face was neutral as if he couldn’t care less. Yes, they all played their parts exceedingly well.
“We are hosting a ball tonight to welcome all our esteemed guests,” Rema said. “But before then, we are asking that our royal visitors meet in the Great Hall. I think it wise that we introduce everyone. What do you think, Your Highness?”
The king nodded. “That is a good idea. Are we the last to arrive?”
“Yes,” Darmik answered. “Every royal family from the mainland is now here.”
“Excellent.” The king exchanged a brief look with his son.
Allyssa knew her parents and Savenek all caught the gesture. However, they just smiled and pretended as if everyone at the castle were the best of friends.
Darmik didn’t want either Savenek or Allyssa needlessly wandering around the castle with Telmena there. Since the meeting between all the kingdoms didn’t start for another hour, Allyssa went to her bedchamber to wait.
Mayra knocked and came in. “Want some company?”
Allyssa hugged her dearest friend. “Yes.” It felt like they hadn’t had any time together lately.
“Have you heard the news?” Mayra asked.
There was constant news, so Allyssa wasn’t sure to what Mayra was referring.
“Madelin returned. She just arrived with her parents.”
“Audek and Vesha are here?” They rarely came to court.
Mayra nodded and sat on the sofa.
“Is Vesha still a great healer?” Allyssa asked, taking a seat next to her friend.
“She is. Your mother said she wanted Vesha here as a precautionary measure.”
Probably in case someone was exposed to the poison. Or to even help complete the antidote for it.
“Will you be at the ball this evening?” Allyssa asked.
“Yes. Your father wants me to remain close to the Telmena family so I can eavesdrop on their conversations.”
Allyssa didn’t like her friend taking on these dangerous assignments. “If you’re there, won’t the Apethaga family recognize you?” And if they did, wouldn’t they make sure the Telmenas didn’t say anything around her?
“I’m going in disguise.” She played with the edge of her sleeve. “Savenek is helping me prepare.” The corners of her lips rose ever so slightly as she fought a smile.
Allyssa rolled her eyes. “I’m sure he is.”
Now Mayra did smile. “Savenek is conceited.”
“Yes, he is.”
“He’s stubborn.”
“Most definitely.”
“He’s skilled with a sword.”
Allyssa had only seen him shoot a bow and arrow and throw daggers. He’d excelled at both, so she could only assume he knew how to handle a sword.
“He’s pretty much perfect. At least, perfect for me.” Mayra stood.
Allyssa had never seen her friend in love before. It was strange to have her brother and best friend smitten with each other. She supposed that meant they would always be in her life in some capacity.
“I need to go and prepare,” Mayra said as she headed to the door. “Odar will be here shortly to escort you to the meeting.” When she reached the door, she paused. “Go over to your bookshelf and knock three times.” She exited the room without further explanation.
Allyssa jumped up from the sofa. The last time the bookshelf had opened, Kerdan visited her. Of course, it could just be Savenek wanting to talk without their parents knowing. Either way, she went over to the bookshelf and knocked as Mayra had instructed. A moment later, it swung open and Kerdan entered. She threw her arms around him, holding him tightly.
“I know I shouldn’t be here,” he whispered into her hair, “but I had to see you.”
She breathed in the smell of him. “I’m so glad you’re here.” She didn’t want to let go.
“We need to talk before the meeting.” Taking her hand, he led her over to the sofa where they sat next to one another. “There have been a few developments you need to be aware of.” His brows were pinched together with worry.
Fear shot through her. “Is everything all right?”
“As soon as you’re married to Odar, the Telmena king and queen plan to assassinate Rema, Darmik, and Savenek. The only reason they are going to leave you alive is so you can control the Emperion people for them.”
Although the news was shocking, it didn’t change their plans. “The king and queen will be dead before they can kill my family.” Because Savenek’s plan would work. It just had to.
“I agree.” His forehead creased.
She reached out, cupping his cheek and feeling his stubble against her palm. “What is it?” she asked, afraid there was more he was withholding.
“They have to believe you’re marrying Odar,” he said. “If they suspect anything, they’ll kill Rema, Darmik, and Savenek. Then they’ll force you to marry Odar.”
It wouldn’t come to that. She would do everything in her power to make sure things progressed as planned. But she wasn’t stupid, and if her time in Russek had taught her anything, it was that nothing ever went as planned. Panic surged through her.
Kerdan leaned his forehead against hers. “Allyssa,” he whispered.
She could feel his soft breath caress her skin.
He reached up and slid his hand around the back of her neck, holding her in place. His touch sent a jolt of pleasure through her. “Make sure you’re armed at all times. Pretend you hate me.” He squeezed her neck infinitesimally. “Make everyone believe you’re in love with Odar. Play your part so well that even I believe it.”
Her heart squeezed with panic. “I don’t want to.”
“I know,” he murmured, his lips hovering next to hers.
“I love you,” she said.
“I know that, too.” He kissed her.
She climbed onto his lap, wanting to be as close to him as possible. Wanting him to know how much she loved him.
“I must go,” he said. “Before your father finds me in here.”
She wrapped her arms around him, hugging him one last time.
“Please be safe,” he said. “And if anyone tries to hurt you, don’t hesitate to kill him. Because if you don’t, I will.”
Allyssa strode into the Great Hall. The tables had been moved to the center of the room, forming a long rectangle. Most of the kings and queens from the various kingdoms were already assembled. Rema and Darmik had asked the rulers from Fren, Kricok, and Landania to attend not as a courtesy to those kingdoms, but for show. Having six additional people there to voice support for Emperion would help sway the other kingdoms to see things their way.
Allyssa took a seat between Savenek and Odar. Odar’s parents were seated on his other side. She smiled coyly at her pretend fiancé, batting her eyelashes and trying to look smitten—but feeling utterly stupid.
Odar scooted closer and whispered, “I’m trying so hard not to laugh right now.”
She wanted to punch him. Instead, she stole a kiss at the edge of his lips. He leaned into her, making the kiss last a second longer than it should have. Allyssa forced herself to remain focused on Odar and not seek Kerdan out to discover if he’d been watching her. She didn’t even know if he was there since she hadn’t allowed herself to look.
Odar reached out and took hold of her hand. As they sat there waiting for Rema and Darmik to arrive, Allyssa tried not to feel guilty for kissing Odar. She’d o
nly done it to make sure everyone bought the lie. A moment later, the empress and emperor entered the room, sitting in the two empty chairs next to Savenek.
“Thank you all for coming,” Rema said. “I thought it wise for us to use this unique opportunity to talk to one another.” She scanned the room. “Is everyone here?”
“Your Majesty,” Savenek said. “We are missing King Kerdan as well as the entire royal family from Telmena.”
Relief filled Allyssa. Kerdan hadn’t seen her kiss Odar. She discreetly pulled her hand free from Odar’s firm grip.
The door swung open, and Kerdan strode in. “Sorry I’m late,” he said, not sounding sorry at all. He did, however, sound slightly out of breath. Allyssa wondered what he’d been up to. There was an empty chair next to Conditto and he quickly took his seat, scanning the room. “What’s first on our agenda?”
“I’d like to discuss two items,” Rema said, “peace and trade. Does anyone else have anything they’d like to add?”
No one did.
“Excellent, then let’s begin. The previous events with Russek were very disconcerting. I would like to prevent something like that from happening again.”
Everyone agreed.
“I propose we sign a treaty,” Rema continued. “The treaty will state that each kingdom will remain within its borders, and no one will overthrow, invade, or takeover another kingdom through force. If a kingdom raises its army against another kingdom, everyone on the mainland will band together to retaliate.”
“I agree,” Kerdan stated. “I will sign the treaty.”
“So will we,” King Viscor said. “I’ve had enough fighting and killing.”
The king and queen from Dromien agreed.
“What about Melenia?” King Theon asked. “Who will control that kingdom?”
A good question. Allyssa knew Russek had withdrawn its troops from Melenia. The kingdom was still trying to recover from the mass slaughter that had occurred there.
“Does anyone have any suggestions?” Rema asked.
“I think we should leave Melenia alone to figure it out,” Kerdan said. “I’m sure there is someone still alive from the royal family who can rule.”
Oath of Destruction: Reign of Secrets, Book 5 Page 25