Oath of Destruction: Reign of Secrets, Book 5

by Jennifer Anne Davis

  “I do.”

  “Do you promise to love, protect, honor, and cherish him for the rest of your life?”

  Kerdan smiled at her, a devilish twinkle to his eyes.

  “I do,” she said without hesitation, a grin spreading across her lips.

  “It’s time for the rings,” Mako said, opening the box.

  Allyssa and Kerdan reached inside, each pulling out a gold band. Allyssa slid the band she held onto Kerdan’s finger. He, in turn, slid the other onto hers, placing it next to the ring he’d already given her—his mother’s wedding ring.

  “I hereby pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.”

  As Kerdan leaned down, Allyssa stood on her tiptoes, meeting him halfway. Kerdan pressed his warm lips against hers. She wanted to devour him at once, but everyone started clapping, reminding her they had an audience.

  Kerdan moved his lips to her ear and whispered, “There will be time for that later tonight.”

  “There better be,” she replied.

  He chuckled as they turned to present themselves to the people in the room. Rema was smiling with tears in her eyes, Darmik’s arm wrapped around her. Savenek nodded at Allyssa and winked, as if he knew what Kerdan had just said to her.

  “May I present to you King Kerdan and his wife, Princess Allyssa.”

  They’d decided she would be crowned queen of Russek when she was actually in that kingdom and his subjects could be there to witness the ceremony.

  Kerdan took her hand. Together, they made their way down the aisle as everyone clapped and cheered.

  Allyssa couldn’t believe she was married. To Kerdan. She couldn’t stop smiling.

  Out in the hallway, he kissed her. “I just realized I can do that whenever I want.”

  Russek and Emperion soldiers surrounded them as they made their way to Darmik’s office. Allyssa instructed the soldiers to remain in the corridor as she and Kerdan stepped inside, closing the door.

  Kerdan wrapped his arms around her, his mouth once again finding Allyssa’s. She didn’t think she would ever get sick of him kissing her like this. His kisses had the same passion he exhibited when fighting, and Allyssa quite enjoyed it.

  Darmik entered a moment later with Rema and Savenek.

  Kerdan released Allyssa, then shook hands with Darmik.

  Rema hugged her daughter. “Congratulations.”

  “I’m so happy.”

  “I can tell just by looking at you.”

  “We need to sign the contract,” Darmik said. “My scribe has prepared three copies. Your man, Brookfel, has already read through the contract to verify everything is as it should be.”

  Allyssa sat next to Kerdan at Darmik’s desk, each signing several pages that detailed how Emperion and Russek would handle their affairs. It had been decided Allyssa would travel to Russek with Kerdan, where she would be crowned queen. The couple planned to reside in Russek for a year. Once the year was up, Allyssa and Kerdan would visit Emperion. The contract detailed how Allyssa would be the empress when she turned thirty. At that time, Kerdan would become emperor, ruling alongside Allyssa. If anything happened to Allyssa, Kerdan would lose his title and the line would shift to Savenek. The contract also stated that Emperion and Russek would merge their two kingdoms together. However, it would be a gradual process.

  Once the paperwork was signed, Allyssa stood, eager to head to the Dining Hall where supper and dancing were to take place. It was time to celebrate.

  Allyssa

  Sitting at the head table next to her husband, Allyssa marveled at the fact she was married. Kerdan reached for her hand under the table, squeezing it. Would he always be so reserved in public? Probably. Just one of his many masks.

  “Stop looking at me like that,” he said under his breath.

  “Like what?” she teased. Even though he’d been careful to keep his feelings and emotions reined in, she hadn’t.

  “Like I’m the main course.” His eyes revealed a hint of laughter.

  “Oh, I’m sorry.” She pretended to be affronted. “I thought you were dessert.”

  He full-on laughed, causing several people to look his way. Allyssa hadn’t heard him laugh like that before. The sound sent a thrill of pleasure through her—she’d not only been the cause of that laughter, but it also revealed how happy he was that his mask had slipped.

  “Spare me,” Savenek groaned. “No wait, I have a better idea.” The twinkle in his eyes hinted at mischief. Before Allyssa could ask what he meant, he stood and raised his goblet. “If I could have your attention.” Everyone stopped talking. “I’d like to make a toast to my sister and her husband.”

  At hearing the word husband, Allyssa couldn’t help but smile. When Savenek turned the full force of his gaze on her, she knew he would try to embarrass her.

  “When I first met Kerdan, I thought there was no way my twin sister was going to marry him. I mean, he’s from Russek.” He paused and everyone in the room laughed, including Rema and Darmik. Savenek forged on, “But after I spent some time with them together, I realized my sister actually loved the brute.” He said it as if he couldn’t fathom the idea of anyone liking Kerdan. Everyone chuckled. “That’s when I came to realize they are perfect for each other. Allyssa needs someone who treats her as an equal instead of idolizing her because of her position as the crown princess of Emperion. Kerdan just needs someone who can teach him some manners.” Everyone burst out laughing. Savenek had the crowd rapt with attention, hanging on his every word. He was very good at playing the part of the prince. “Please join me in raising your drink to salute these two lucky people who’ve managed to find love. Congratulations, Allyssa and Kerdan. May you be filled with many blessings, happiness, health, richness, and some babies because let’s face it, you need to produce some heirs!”

  Everyone stomped on the floor and clapped in agreement.

  Laughing, Allyssa grinned at Kerdan before kissing him soundly. The cheering became even louder.

  “Dance with me, wife.”

  “I would love to.”

  They made their way to the center of the room where the dancing was to take place. The musicians started playing a slow tune. Kerdan wrapped his arms around Allyssa, holding her tightly against him. She rested her head on his chest, feeling perfectly content.

  When the song ended, Savenek approached. “May I?”

  Kerdan kissed Allyssa’s cheek and released her.

  “I can’t believe you’re going to leave me,” Savenek said as he took Allyssa’s hand and started dancing with her. “I don’t understand why you want to go to Russek. You better not let them turn you into a fur-wearing wench who is blunt and speaks without thinking.”

  She whacked his shoulder, and he pretended to be hurt. “Even though you can be annoying, I am going to miss you.” She wished they had more time to get to know one another better. However, Kerdan needed her with him in Russek. Since she’d trained her entire life on how to rule a kingdom, she was more than prepared to help Kerdan get Russek back on track. While the work ahead of her would be difficult, she welcomed the challenge. As for returning to the castle in Clovek, she would worry about facing those demons later. For now, she would enjoy her wedding day.

  The song ended, and everyone applauded the musicians. Odar approached. “May I have this dance?”

  “You may.”

  He gently took her hand, placing his palm on her back and making sure to keep a respectable distance. “I want to congratulate you on your marriage.”

  “Thank you.” She couldn’t believe how much she and Odar been through together. “I hope that we can remain friends.”

  “I’d like that.” He kept his focus above her head instead of her eyes.

  “Thank you for everything you’ve done to help me and Emperion.” With their marriage contract severed, he didn’t owe her anything and could have easily let Emperion fend for itself. However, he’d chosen to step in and to do the right thing.

  “I’m happy to he
lp you in any way I can. Especially after all I put you through. It was the least I could do.” His voice sounded almost pained, and Allyssa realized how sorry he was for all that had happened between them.

  Not knowing what else to say, she asked, “Do you plan to return home tomorrow?”

  “Yes.” He finally met her gaze, his eyes sad. “I can’t stay here now that you’re married. It’s too hard.”

  Her heart squeezed.

  Odar continued, “I’ll be traveling with my parents to make sure they’re on the same page as me.”

  Wanting to keep the conversation on a neutral topic, she said, “And what page is that?”

  “I want them to understand that we are returning to Fren, where we will remain. I want to make sure we are back to being an isolated kingdom. I also need to make sure my brother is comfortable in his new position and doesn’t require any assistance from my parents. I want to keep Fren and Telmena separate.”

  “I think that’s wise.”

  “And it will keep me busy. I need to be busy right now.”

  It felt as if he’d reached in her chest and squeezed her heart. Why did he have the ability to do that to her? She rolled her shoulders back, standing tall and refusing to acknowledge what he’d said.

  When the song ended, Kerdan came over. “I’m ready to retire and be alone with my wife.”

  Odar’s face paled. “Of course. Congratulations on your marriage. I wish both of you nothing but happiness.” He bowed and left, melting into the crowd.

  “Ready?” Kerdan asked, his deep voice sending a wave of pleasure through Allyssa.

  “I am.” A smile spread across her face. She was finally able to be alone with Kerdan whenever she wanted.

  Since Allyssa and Kerdan were the center of attention, there would be no sneaking out of the room unnoticed. Taking a deep breath, she went to the head table and lifted her arm. Everyone quieted down.

  “Thank you for coming and sharing this special day with us. Please stay as long as you like. King Kerdan and I are retiring for the night.” Allyssa felt her face warm with all the statement implied. Instead of ducking her head, she made sure to stand tall as she glided from the room, Kerdan at her side. She refused to look at Mayra, Madelin, Marek, or Savenek as she exited.

  Once in the hallway, guards escorted the couple to a room that had been prepared for them in the royal wing of the castle. When they reached it, Kerdan opened the door and Allyssa stepped inside. Their guards were ordered to remain in the corridor for the duration of the night.

  Allyssa surveyed the room. It was about twice the size of her bedchamber. An enormous canopied bed stood against one wall, a large stone hearth with a fire already roaring was across from it. There was a rug with sofas and chairs in one section, a dressing closet in another.

  Fidgeting with her sleeve, Allyssa waited.

  Kerdan closed the door. He stepped farther into the room and removed his cape. “May I?” he asked, pointing at hers.

  She nodded.

  He reached forward, unclasping the hooks on her shoulders. The cape fell to the ground. She left it there, her focus on Kerdan.

  “So,” he said.

  “So,” she replied.

  “Do you want to talk? Or…” He reached forward, talking hold of her hips and yanking her body toward his.

  “I like the or option.”

  “I was hoping you’d say that.” He leaned down and nibbled on her ear. “Do you remember the first time I brought you to my room? You thought it was for this reason although, at the time, the thought hadn’t even crossed my mind. And now that’s all that crosses my mind.” He blew into her ear sending a jolt of pleasure through her.

  She remembered that day. How scared she’d been.

  He kissed her neck and reached behind her, untying the laces of her dress. The bodice loosened, but he didn’t remove it. Instead, his hands slid up her arms.

  “Are you okay?” he asked.

  There was something she wanted to tell him, but wasn’t sure how to.

  “What is it?” His hands rested on her shoulders.

  She reached up, touching her arm just below his hand.

  “Is that where the wood was impaled into you?” he asked.

  “There’s a hideous scar.” Even though it had healed, the skin that had been stitched together was raised and jagged. It looked awful, and she made sure to always have it covered.

  “Do you know what made me fall in love with you?”

  “I believe you said it had something to do with me attempting to fight your soldiers that day in Russek.” The day she’d been plucked from the dungeon and thrown at King Drenton’s feet.

  Kerdan chuckled. “Yes, that was quite a sight to behold.” He stepped back and put a finger under her chin, tilting her head up so she had to look in his eyes. “I fell in love with you because of who you are and the scars you bear.”

  “What does that mean?”

  “When I first met you, you’d been tortured and interrogated.”

  She refused to relive the memories of being hit with the cane and having her fingernails ripped out.

  “Even though you’d suffered greatly, you still were feistier and fiercer than anyone I’d ever encountered before. You’d been through so much but instead of letting it ruin you, it made you stronger. And you shined like a star in the sky, bright and strong and beautiful.”

  Tears welled in her eyes. She had no idea he’d viewed her like that. Lifting her arm, she cupped his face with her palm. “I love you.”

  The next morning, Allyssa awoke snuggled against Kerdan. He was lying on his back, shirtless. She pushed herself up, watching him sleep. He looked so peaceful and content. So unlike the man she’d first met in Russek. She trailed her finger along his cheek and jaw, feeling the stubble of his face against her skin.

  His eyes fluttered open.

  “Sorry,” she said. “I didn’t mean to wake you.”

  He reached up, his fingers curling around her wrist, and he pulled her on top of him. “Morning, wife.”

  She kissed him, reveling in the feel of his body below hers.

  Someone knocked on the door.

  “Go away!” Kerdan yelled. “I’m busy,” he mumbled as he kissed Allyssa.

  “I would if I could,” Brookfel replied. “But I have a message from Russek that needs your immediate attention.” A second later, he added, “Your Highness.”

  “I see Emperion is rubbing off on him,” Allyssa said as she moved aside so Kerdan could get out of bed.

  Grabbing a robe, he went over to the door and opened it a couple of inches. He returned a moment later, reading a letter.

  “Is everything okay?” she asked.

  “Yes. Several of the dukes are requesting a meeting. They want to know why a substantial portion of the army was called to Emperion.” He sat on the edge of the bed, running his hand over his face. “I hate to say this, but I need to return home. I can’t afford to be away any longer.”

  She sat up. “I understand. I’ll have a few necessities packed. The rest can be shipped to Russek later.”

  “Are you sure you want to come with me? You can stay here for a couple more weeks. Spend some more time with your brother.”

  “Are you trying to get rid of me already?”

  “No. I just don’t want to take you away from your family.”

  She shook her head. Didn’t he understand? “You are my family. I go where you go.” The sheet fell from her body as she rose to kiss him.

  It had been decided Mayra would stay in Emperion—a decision Allyssa wholly agreed with. It would be cruel to both Mayra and Savenek if Allyssa insisted her lady-in-waiting went to Russek with her. Thankfully, Madelin was eager to go, insisting on being introduced to eligible Russek men. She intended to find her own Kerdan. Allyssa just rolled her eyes. Never a dull moment with Madelin around.

  The issue of Allyssa’s royal guard was another matter entirely. Kerdan thought his own men should serve as her guard, Darmik
wanted Nathenek to accompany her, and Marek insisted on going. After much debate and negotiation, and no one backing down, they settled on all three options.

  Needing a break from the well-meaning but overbearing men, Allyssa headed to the courtyard where she found Mayra. The two of them strolled about, enjoying the warm sun.

  Allyssa wondered how long it would be until she returned. “I’m going to miss you.”

  “The castle won’t be the same without you here,” Mayra said. “But don’t worry, I’m sure Savenek will keep everyone on their toes.”

  “And you’re going to be working with him.” Allyssa nudged her friend’s shoulder. Mayra had said very little about her relationship with Savenek.

  “Promise that if you need me, you’ll send word. I’ll come to Russek immediately.”

  Allyssa linked her arm with her friend’s. “I will as long as you promise to write to me. Let me know how you are and what you’re doing.”

  “Deal. But you have to write to me as well. I want to hear all about married life.”

  Allyssa’s face turned red as she remembered everything she and Kerdan did last night.

  “Are you blushing?” Mayra asked incredulously. “Usually I’m the one with the red face, not you!”

  “I must admit that so far, I am enjoying married life.” She couldn’t contain her smile.

  “I bet you are,” Mayra said, nudging her friend. “Speaking of your husband, there he is.”

  Allyssa looked across the courtyard at the archway Kerdan and Savenek had just entered through. The meeting about her royal guard must finally be over. “I still can’t believe you jumped in front of a blade for my brother.”

  “Love makes you do reckless things.”

  “It does indeed.” Allyssa went over and slid her arm around Kerdan’s waist.

  He kissed the top of her head. “Are you ready to learn the ways of the Russek people?” he asked her.

  “I am.” She’d already packed for the journey. Mayra would take care of sending the rest of Allyssa’s things along in a couple of weeks. Not that Allyssa needed her Emperion dresses since it was so cold in Russek. She’d have to have several outfits made to accommodate the climate. However, she did want some of her books, jewelry, and knickknacks.