Page 139 of Hunger & Harmony

The whisper comes from my left.

“She was never meant to be,” a soft reply follows.

I hold my head high. It’s not that I don’t belong; I’m a key no one considered. The Court that once disregarded me now shows its blessings.

Another blanket of silence falls over the crowd as a familiar woman in red steps up to the elevated platform.

“Archduchess Imara,” I greet, watching her painted mask carefully.

Only to watch her hand clasp the covering, lowering it from her face. Her eyes close as she bows, acknowledging both her nephew and I. Her lady’s maid rushes to receive the mask from her.

“I extend my sincerest congratulations on this auspicious night.” She straightens again, her hands clasped at her waist. “And I hope for forgiveness in time, Your Majesties.”

“It isn’t I who deserves an apology,” Niko says, voice curt despite his relaxed posture.

She nods before meeting my eyes.

“I apologize for the grievances I have caused you. My intentions were and will always remain pure.”

She lowers her head again. I glance at Niko, taking note of how he and everyone watch, even the Archduchess’s closest underlings. I’m finding it hard not to believe her. There isn’t any point in holding onto bad blood.

“I understand,” I say. “I appreciate this. Your apology won’t go unnoticed.”

A brief, albeit awkward, smile pulls her red lips.

“Thank you, Exalted Resonant.”

Multiple voices murmur, testing out this new vocabulary on their tongues.

“Resonant . . .”

I smile back.

“To the King and Queen,” Archduchess Imara then says with a flourish of her hand.

“To the King and Queen!”

Ezren’s voice rings out louder than anyone else’s. I giggle openly when I spot him to the right, Selene, Cass, and Ryel also beside him in their formalwear and masks.

Tensions haven’t resolved entirely, but I feel the ease in this room. The hope. I’ll do my best to meet their expectations, even knowing a traitor lurks amongst us. Maybe in this hall right now.

Which is why I show my joy openly. No threat is large enough to overturn our bond.

I look to my right and find Niko already smiling at me.

Together, we’ll face any enemy, Hunter or vampire.

The Crown is no longer hollow.

33

HARMONY

Aresounding thud of the doors echoes through the emptied throne room. Letting my crown slide down my hair, I relax back in my throne. Candles are burning low, and the Vox Crown’s hushed music quiets to near silence.

“You did well,” Niko says to me, and I flick my eyes towards him.

The ceremony has concluded, and the cameras and Court have dispersed. Only one remains in front of us.