Page 93 of What Beats Within the Tunnels

I feel betrayed. Granger was supportive when we sought to unlock the bridge. Was his kindness a ruse, a way to earn Nyx’s trust? But Nyx already trusted him wholeheartedly... And why would Elspeth help me with my Fae magic if in the end all they wanted to do was find a way to get rid of me?

Nyx’s voice cuts through the room, firm and pleading. “But you know of the prophecy. My father believed in it. There’s a chance I can save her. She’s destined to be by my side. If she ever loses control, I’ll be there to guide her back. I can control her if you give me time.” His words wrap around my heart, squeezing tight, and for a moment I want to believe him.

But I don’t like where this is going. Control me? I’ve had enough of being controlled, manipulated. The sting of past memories lingers. But is he simply posturing to sway them?

Granger’s sneer is audible. “Onyx, the prophecy isn’t certain, and for it to work she’d have to make the ultimate vow to be with you and only you. And as of now, the girl isn’t even with you. Last I heard, she’s been warming my son’s bed, not yours.”

My cheeks burn, a mix of anger and embarrassment. I struggle to keep my breathing even, my grip on the shadow threads taut.

Suddenly, a distant voice beckons, echoing like a whisper carried by the wind. “What are you doing?”

I’m yanked back, the threads of shadow slipping away as I find myself outside the council room. Colton towers over me, his gaze sharp with suspicion, studying every inch of my face. It’s then I realize that I’ve been caught.

“I felt your anger, saw the swirling shadows in your eyes,” he says, his voice laced with concern. “Were you...listening in?”

Drawing a shaky breath, I nod, pushing a stray lock of hair behind my ear. “I was using the shadows to eavesdrop.”

A wicked grin spreads across his face, transforming his features from concern to amusement. “Of course you were, my shadow.” He leans in, capturing my lips with his. When he pulls away, a wave of guilt crashes over me, and I’m about to confess when he raises a finger to my lips, silencing me.

“You don’t need to tell me about Nyx,” he says. “I’ve seen his attempts, and I know you’re torn about the prophecy.” I’m relieved, yet the weight of uncertainty remains.

His eyes search mine, full of questions. “What did I miss?”

Taking a moment to collect my thoughts, I reply, “Not much. Discussions of throwing me into the bridge or ending my life. But why should I care about their opinions?” I attempt a playful tone, but the strain is evident.

Colton’s jaw tightens momentarily then softens. “You care more than you let on. This council... It’s all bullshit. Let’s put an end to this talk of harming you.”

Before I can protest, he’s thrusting the doors open and grabbing my hand, pulling me into the room.

The tension in the room thickens as the members of the council shift their gazes between Colton and me. The heavy drapes and ornate decorations of the chamber seem oppressive, with the central table acting as the barrier between the council and us.

Roland’s piercing stare never wavers. I can see the skepticism in his eyes, mingled with something darker—contempt, perhaps. He’s a tall man with a severe face and silver streaks in his hair. Power emanates from him, and I can sense that he’s used to getting his way. His hate isn’t hidden, rather on full display, challenging me with its intensity.

When Drew extends the invitation to sit, his tone carries a hint of mock politeness, his eyes twinkling with barely suppressed amusement. “Lyra, Colton, come take a seat. Join us.”

But I’m not in the mood for their games. “I think I’ll stand, thank you.” I reply, firm and unwavering. My posture is tall and confident, feet planted firmly on the polished marble floors. The last thing I want is to appear submissive or meek in front of them.

Colton’s hand brushes against mine, a silent offer of support. I appreciate his presence, but right now I need to stand my ground, alone.

The swirling tempest of emotions inside me is hard to suppress. On one hand, there’s the instinctive urge to shield myself, to appear unthreatening and gain their favor. On the other, a sense of defiance grows, urging me to show my strength, to let them see the storm they’re recklessly provoking.

A sharp voice cuts through my inner chaos. “You weren’t invited to this meeting for a reason. What are you doing here?” The woman next to Roland, draped in flowing robes of deep emerald, freely shares her disdain. Auelina, I presume.

Taking a deep breath, I ready myself to reply, to face the council and assert my place. No longer the girl they think they can toy with but someone with power, resilience, and a will that won’t be easily broken.

“Apparently, the most important conversations about me happen when I’m not in the room. It’s time I change that,” I say with a smile, cool and distant. Auelina’s face contorts, barely masking her contempt.

As the meeting progresses, I glance over at Kaine and his wife, Sybil. They are Sorcerers from my realm, and I am destined to be their queen, yet they remain silent, offering no defense on my behalf. In fact, they haven’t uttered a word throughout the entire meeting. When my gaze finally meets Kaine’s, he clears his throat, and for a brief moment I anticipate him speaking up for me.

“Lyra, if I may,” he begins, and I brace myself. “We all witnessed the toll that practicing dark magic took on Samael. Do you truly believe that you embody what’s best for Cloudrum? Perhaps we should explore ways to rid you of this dark magic.” His words strike me like a blow, and anger courses through me. It’s clear now—he only seeks to maintain his control, and of course he would attempt to suppress my power…but to compare me to Samael.

Nyx attempts diplomacy, “Lyra, perhaps you should return to your quarters. I’ll fetch you when this is over.” His voice is soothing, but I can’t ignore the undertone. He’s parading me, showing them he has some semblance of control. Yet, he doesn’t grasp my exhaustion from constantly being told what to do.

“I’d rather stay, especially if you’re plotting my demise. At least have the audacity to discuss it in my presence.” My gaze flits between Granger, Roland, and Auelina, finally settling on her. “Or are you afraid of what my shadows might do?”

Granger shakes his head in disbelief then addresses Nyx directly. “Nyx, if you think you can reign her in, you’re deeply mistaken.” As Nyx casts me a desperate glance, seeking understanding, I spot Larc, and genuine warmth fills me.

I yearn to discuss the Lycan Realm and ask about Rhett, but Roland, bristling with agitation, interrupts. “Drew, the time to secure her in the magical tomb is now. That’s what it’s designed for. We’ll debate her destiny while she’s confined.” That startles me.