Page 31 of Where We Belong

“How does it stay up? The sea—sky thing.” I ask no one in particular.

“How does yours stay down?” Fawn counters, a towel draped over her arm.

“Hmm.” I blink a few times, trying to figure it out. There’s probably a scientific answer somewhere, but I sure as hell don’t know it.

“You look so much like your brother.”

“Um, thanks?”

“Well, he is very handsome. And charming.” Thea giggles, tucking her mousy hair behind her ears. “So, it’s a compliment.”

Fawn looks at her like she’s crazy and joins me at the window. I try to get a better look at the different uniforms the soldiers are wearing.

“The King mentioned territories last night, which one are we in?”

“We’re in The Capital. It’s neutral. There are some books on the shelf and a map on the wall by your bed, dear. They’ll tell you everything you need to know about the land, our people, and The Creed, too.” She throws me a look I can’t decipher. I don’t give a toss about their maps or books. Or their fucking Creed. What’s the point of studying a world that wants me dead? If it wasn’t for this damned destiny I’m supposed to fulfil, I would have jumped at the chance to learn about my family, my history. How can something I’ve longed for my whole life turn into something that repulses me?

I press my forehead to the glass and sigh, the mist from the fog blurring my view.

“Where do I go for breakfast?”

Thea fiddles with the combs, brushes, and clips on the vanity. “The dining hall is at the centre of the palace. All meals are held there. Once we’ve gotten you ready, we’ll escort you down. I hope the meal will be to your liking, Princess Agni.”

I need my questions answered, not food. Cook came to my room last night with a bright smile and a plate of meat and salad. He went on to tell me about some of the animals they raise here and how best to cook them, but when I mentioned I was a vegetarian, he looked like I’d just slapped him. After refusing all his alternatives, he took the plate with him, sporting a wounded little wince. And a promise to make me the best meatless meals I’ve ever seen, which made me grin a little, even if my stomach protested at the thought of eating.

“Please, just call me Ashley.”

“Princess Ashley,” Thea repeats with a polite nod. “My deepest apologies, Highness.”

Before I can respond to those absurd titles, Fawn calls Thea into the bathroom. I seize my chance and slip out of the room. The smell of sweet dough and cinnamon guides me through hallways painted with the most beautiful artwork I’ve ever seen. Warriors, winged horses, and something that looks like stars colliding over a handsome king and a breathtaking woman in a red cloak.

The murmuring stops as soon as I enter. I double take at the warm smile I miss every day. My uncle sits at the head of the table, joined by Nyk and Lili. Even seated, it’s clear how imposing Nyk is, but when he stands to bow, it’s like he triples in size. Ruggedly handsome with loose, bright white waves pulled into a rough bun, a few strands fall across his warm, tawny face. Some uniform scars run through his eyebrows, eye, and across his lips. Like a shark has bitten him.

“So nice of you to join us, Ashley.” He’s obviously aware of my irritation with the other titles I’ve been burdened with. Lili gives me a curt bow before the King gestures toward one of the empty seats between him and Aiden.

“Please, eat with us.”

Chapter 31

Aiden

A hope I did not ask for,

neither tarry nor pray, did I,

She smells like something has died. And rotted. Last year. The way she slumps into the seat with complete disregard only stokes the fury building in my chest. I had reluctantly agreed to let her stay in my mother’s old quarters, lest I be labelled selfish. A practical decision. The quarters keep her well out of my way, while ensuring the Volker can reach her quickly if she cannot control the black flames. Again. And kills everyone in the vicinity. Again. A servant loads her plate with eggs, potatoes, and vegetables, but she squirms in her seat. My uncle sends me a not-so-subtle glance over the morning parchment.

“Did you sleep well, Agni?” I ask. Duty done. I have spoken to her.

“Ashley. And no.” She stares at her food in disgust. I thought they starved her. After a beat of silence, my uncle clears his throat and catches my eye. I have been told this type of look is an encouragement to take action. I cannot for the life of me figure out why everybody is so obsessed with me speaking to this person.

“A shame. Why ever not?” I move my eggs around with my fork, gritting my teeth.

“It’s hot and loud.” Sweat collects on her upper lip, though the Core has barely reached full glow.

“Well, I hope it becomes more hospitable for you during your short stay here.” I can see the amusement in Nykholas’s face from the corner of my eye. My uncle sighs at something and sends his plate to the servant’s trolley. Agni watches it titter through the air with her eyebrows raised and arms crossed.

“I have a pressing matter to discuss with my council this morning. We are in the process of extracting information from Theron and Cinder Cliffs. My apologies, I was not expecting this.” No. None of us were. I stare at my toasted bread as he instructs, “You can accompany Aiden to the school, then he will take you on a tour of the city.” Great. “After that, we shall meet back here for a meal, and I’ll give you a grand tour of your new home.” The King looks hopeful, and she looks ungrateful. She glances toward me with a raised eyebrow, and I rack my brain for excuses. Ah. Found one.