“Here. Hold on to his shoulders. May, if you could help me here,” I commanded.
The three of us carried Tynan into the corridor that was barely lit by the early morning sun.
“How far is it?” I asked as we climbed the stairs.
“Just two more floors up.”
“Two floors!” Sage huffed.
“We’re almost there.” I panted.
“So heavy,” Sage muttered.
“Try to be quiet,” I whispered.
“I demand a raise.” Sage lowered his voice.
Finally, we made it to the new bedroom that was almost outside the living quarters. It was spacious, with the distinct stale smell of unused furniture and linens. Motes of dust rose in the air, disturbed by our movements.
We placed Tynan on the bed, and I covered him with a thin blanket while May went to start lighting the candles.
“Its perfect, May. One candle is enough,” I said.
“This room belonged to one of the past leader's mistresses. It’s removed from the main portion of the castle to avoid a meeting between...” May chewed on her lip.
I looked at the walls decorated with multiple tapestries and the elegant furniture that confirmed that the previous owner was female.
“So, this is your plan. To hide him?” Sage adjusted the silk fabric, tightening the belt of his robe.
“No, this is only one part.” I met his eyes.
Sage raised his eyebrows.
“May, bring all our clothes here. And try not to be seen.” I looked at Sage. “Can you find a high priest?”
“Why do you need a high priest?” Sage asked.
I glanced at Tynan, who still remained unconscious, and my courage nearly gave way. But a moment later, I collected myself and met Sage’s eyes.
“We need someone to perform a marriage ceremony.”
Sage’s mouth hung open.
“A wedding would delay a clan meeting. No one would think he’s not well enough,” I said, shifting my gaze from my maid to Sage.
“I don’t know... what to say,” Sage muttered.
“May, can you find someone discreet?”
“There’s no need. I have the power to perform all ceremonies. When are you planning...?” Sage responded.
“Right now.” I swallowed.
Blood rose to my cheeks. It was the last thing I ever expected to have to do. To get married in torn flying leathers with messy hair, and streaks of blood on my forehead, to a man who was not even awake. But if I could connect Tynan to the red bloodline, it would give him more protection. I approached the bed and looked at Tynan. His face remained pale in the soft morning light. His long lashes cast soft shadows shaped like half-moons on his cheeks. Even in his current state, he looked incredibly handsome.
I brushed a damp lock of hair from his face and let my thumb graze the straight line of his brow. Tynan did not stir.
CHAPTER SIX
