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“Your Archduke, Drac, came to my rescue.”
One of the warriors twitched, and she felt the surprise through his chakra before he contained his emotions.
“He did,” the king said.
Saieke paused and thought carefully. “I must admit, King Gidon, I am intrigued to learn about your realm. I have seen your tapestries and weapons— they are made with exquisite craftsmanship. People would indeed trade for such wealth and beauty.”
“You see wealth in our tapestries?” Gidon gave a cursory glance at the tapestries behind her.
“They are exquisite, Your Majesty. Despite my interest, I fear it would be impossible for me to feel safe even with your assurance, as I am without my own trusted Queen’s blades.”
Saieke held herself from fidgeting, maintaining contact with the king’s wintery gaze. She could feel the tension of Lachlan from across the room as he considered her words.
“What would reassure you, Princess?” The king finally asked.
Thank Kings. “I would feel more reassured, if Archduke, Drac El Kyn was assigned to my protection.”
Gidon’s brow arched, the slow smile that curved his mouth was not one Saieke could interpret. But she was not mistaken about the shrewd calculation that shifted through his eyes.
“It is not the purview of the Archduke to guard a princess.”
His voice so cool and unaffected, Saieke hesitated. “What is his purview?” She stood and strolled to the fireplace, needing the heat of the fire to pierce the chill enveloping her.
She felt the caress of Gidon’s eyes as he tracked her movements, but she did not face him.
“His responsibility is equal to that of a Province Prince in other kingdoms. Civilians, warriors, elders and chancellors report to him, and he is responsible for their protection and governance. He is my horseman of the north.”
> “My uncertainty of remaining in your kingdom for any duration runs deep, however, I would be very reassured if the Darkan who thought to save me was by my side,” she said.
Saieke glanced up to meet Lachlan’s eyes which were dancing with amusement. Heat rushed to her cheeks as she looked away from his knowing gaze. He could not possibly know.
“Return to regular duties,” the king ordered, and the warriors disappeared from the room.
Saieke frowned. “Are you retracting your invitation, King Al Shra?”
“You have asked for Drac to be your protector. It will be done.”
“To be a part of it.”
“With Drac by your side, Princess, there is no need for any other protection.”
“Thank you.” She curtsied gracefully, his capitulation a pleasant surprise.
“I bid you good evening, Princess; I will make arrangements for your stay.” He then vanished in the shadows, leaving her care to Lachlan.
Chapter Nine
The Darkage—Castle Kerberos
The grand dining room echoed with the din of laughter and the bustle of the servants as they laid out the evening feast. Dozens of large platters were placed on the massive oak table in the center of the dining hall. The savory scent of thyme infused meat, spiced rice and drinks had Saieke’s nose twitching in anticipation.
When she entered the hall, she had almost faltered in the face of so many Darkans. They had stared at her with inscrutable expressions, but inclined their heads respectfully. From brief introductions, she learned she dined with the Archdukes of the east and south quadrants, the elders and chancellors residing at court.
She was then thoroughly ignored as the meal was served.
This did little to disturb Saieke. The only real disappointment was the absence of Drac. She had pampered her skin with scented water and wore a deep blue caftan lined with exquisite silver threading. It hugged her frame and flowed from her waist to curl around her ankles, and she’d left her hair rippling in a fiery wave down her back. And, he had not shown. She was not sure how to entice Drac, but had been certain she would have made some progress tonight.
“There is a rumor that High Lord El Kyn has been assigned your protector,” a voice said to her left.
