Page 106 of Elysian

“We are rather blood-stained,” Tabby said and met my eyes. “I will have a fresh gown sent to you, and some scarves.” She eyed my throat.

I reached to touch my neck. I had completely forgotten the Sigil’s presence.

“I must speak to you,” Cassiel announced, and his grip wound around my arm.

“Come fetch me when it is time to leave. I will be ready,” I said, staring directly at Tabby.

Cassiel had begun to drag me from the chamber. Branwen watched me leave with a dirt-stained face. She offered me a small, sad smile, then I was down the hall, taking the opposite forking path that led to the chamber we had been given. Or what I could assume, since I couldn’t distinguish the difference between the doors and halls.

Cassiel had us inside the chamber.

“Release me,” I ordered, twisting my arm.

“Your disobedience cannot continue,” he snapped.

“You are hurting me.”

Cassiel suddenly released me, and I stumbled back, rubbing my arm. He slid his hand through his hair, ruffling the strands. His shoulders pumped up and down.

“You cannot stop me from helping.”

Cassiel moved so fast, I couldn’t help but flinch. No touch came. I peeked to find him staring at me, a thunderous look on his face.

“I have already assured you not to fear me,” he hissed. No, he had said he would not harm me.

I ignored his comment and lifted my chin. “I will be going to the village when dawnlight breaks. You are welcome to try chaining me to your bed.”

“If that is what you force me into,” he hissed, grasping my throat and nearing my face. I ground my molars hard.

“At the time, I had to think of survival. Now, I do not care risking death.” I lifted my chin. “So do not. Test. Me.”

We stood staring at each other, panting.

A snarl so violent it sent chills up my spine tore from his lips. He whirled around and stalked out of the chamber. I was left alone, chest heaving, and breaths sawing from my throat.

He backed away this time. I tucked the loose hair against my cheek behind my ear. Numbly, I went to the bath behind the division and turned the spout for the water. The door rattled with a knock. I shuffled over, the pinch in my hip flaring. I opened the door to Tabby.

“I brought you one of mine,” she said. “Simple, and it will allow us to blend.” She scrutinized my face. “Are you well?”

I nodded and smiled slightly, taking the dress from her arms.

“His Highness and Archer are speaking,” she said grimly. “Looks like we will have company nearby during our trip tomorrow.”

“Of course,” I huffed.

“Get some rest.” She squeezed my arm and turned, leaving briskly.

CHAPTER THIRTY-FIVE

Village Visit

Istruggled to balance on the horse they offered. Cassiel wanted me to have Abrax, but the horse was too large and expensive to keep me inconspicuous.

“I do not know how you handle that man,” Tabby muttered. She rode sidesaddle, balancing with ease, her elaborate gown arranged around her. Upon setting eyes on her, one would think she was an Elite blueblood, and I her redblood servant.

I huffed. “With no choice,” I said louder than necessary. I knew he traveled nearby along the path we trod. Tabby did not know just how little choice I had. Every agreement, every interaction was a deal of some sort.

‘Do not take long. Shout for me if you need me. I will be near.’ Cassiel said into my mind. He must be retreating if these were his last words to me. It meant he would not be within distance to allow him to speak into my mind.