CHAPTER TWENTY
After my family and everyone else finally left, silence filled the room. For a moment, I just stood there. Then, I began to tremble. So much had happened in that maze.So much.
I eyed my feet. Dirt lined my soles, and mud was splattered on my calves. Drops of Lillith’s blood had soaked into my ruined gown too, but I didn’t see any of the creature’s blood, and none of them had touched me.
“You need to wash.” Kole’s quiet yet firm demand reminded me of his concern in Inisville. Even though none of the creatures had come into true contact with me, he wasn’t taking any chances.
Despite my blue cuff, I released a strong burst of self-cleansing magic, wicking away all of the grime. It wasn’t like it mattered anymore anyway. Everyone knew the cuff was a farce.
Throughout it, Kole watched me closely, as though assessing every inch of my skin to ensure I hadn’t missed anything. It was only when he seemed appeased that I realized he and the other warriors had already done the same.
With a start, I studied the three warriors who looked freshly bathed. Their weapons were gleaming, their clothes immaculate.They’d obviously encountered thosethingsenough to know what was needed immediately.
“She has a courtyard to be stationed at, as well as the hallway.” Kole nodded toward the doors leading to each. “I’ll stay inside her chambers tonight to keep watch while she sleeps.”
My eyes widened at the thought of Kole watching me all night, but the two males nodded, as if such a thing were as normal as eating crumpets and drinking tea.
The blond one put his hands on his hips, which accentuated the throwing stars locked into the leather straps on his chest. “When were her wards last reworked?” Like Kole, he appeared young and strong.
“Two days ago,” Kole replied. “They were reinforced and are still fresh and fully capable.”
“Does the courtyard have access to the outside wall?” the other asked. Like the blond, he was armed. A crossbow hung from his back, and an earring flashed in his ear, the diamond at least a carat. Since his dark hair was shorn close to his head, the jewelry twinkled and was hard to miss.
But apart from that singular flashy piece of jewelry, both males were dressed simply, and similarly to Kole. Supple black breeches and a fitted tunic adorned their powerful frames. Nothing about their attire screamed that they came from the Council, and I supposed the Council preferred it that way.
Kole shook his head. “No, her courtyard’s fully contained within the palace, so it’s highly unlikely the wards to it have been breached, but don’t let your guard down on the off chance it has been. The spellcasters are to be working through the night as well to assess how the wards were shattered and to fix the holes in their spells.”
“Anything else we need to know?” the blond asked.
Kole again shook his head. “Not that I can think of.”
“I can think of one thing,” I said and clasped my trembling hands behind my back.
All three males turned their attention to me, and I realized I probably looked ridiculous in bare feet with a gown torn to my thighs, all while wearing a sparkling tiara nonetheless. But at least my skin was clean again.
I didn’t let my ludicrous appearance deter me. Instead, I cleared my throat and smiled brightly. “I would love to know both of your names since you likely already know that I’m Primelle Holl”—I stopped myself. I was no longer Primelle Hollaran. I was now Princess Primelle Rose Everline Manafold, third daughter to the king and queen of Mistvale Kingdom—“I mean Primelle Manafold.”
The blond smirked. “Yes, Your Highness. We’re quite aware of who you are.” He bowed. “Xaven Starthrower, at your service.”
The other also bowed. “Callahan Bowwielder, Your Highness. It’s a pleasure to serve you.”
My smile grew strained, and my heart thundered. They’d addressed me so formally, bowing and using reverent tones despite my silly attire. It was all so odd, and I wondered how many summers it would take to get used to my new station.
I dipped my head, thankful for the distraction since the evening was beginning to catch up with me. I clasped my hands even tighter. They were shaking more violently, and I hoped none of them noticed. “Thank you, Xaven and Callahan, and please, call me Primelle or Prim. And if you need anything through the night, don’t hesitate to voice it. I could ring for coffee or tea now to help keep you awake, or if you’re hungry, the kitchens are open at all hours, or so I’ve been told.”
Xaven inclined his head. “No need to, Your Highness. We always come prepared.” He patted a small pocket in his tunic. Aslight bulge filled it, and I wondered what sustenance he had in there.
Callahan did the same. “We shall be fine. Thank you for the offer, though.”
“Whatever you prefer.” I smiled again, and both males’ gazes dipped to my mouth. Despite my efforts, my lips were trembling.
Kole stepped forward, his aura rising. “Both of you to your stations,” he said tersely.
“Yes, sir.” They simultaneously turned on their heels and departed.
Once Kole and I were alone in my chambers, I cocked my head and peered up at him. “Are you in charge or something?”
“Regarding this job, yes, since I’m your assigned Imperial Warrior.”
