AllFreeNovel
Share Us
When we went back to the underground chamber for my mother, she didn’t put up a fight. She simply kissed my father’s hand before sighing once. “He will wake within the week,” she said before waiting for me to release her bonds.
I didn't take off the iron cuffs.
“Let’s go,” she said. “I’m ready.”
Part of me wanted to fight her for trying to take charge of this moment, but I didn’t. I simply nodded and followed her to the chamber.
In this, one last time, she can be in control.
Her gaze hasn’t left mine since we first entered the chamber.
“Are you certain, Elva?” she asks.
My mouth is set in a firm line as I nod. “Yes, Mother. Youwilldo this, or I will put you on trial for your crimes. There will be no reprieve for the Fae who has subjected this Court and its people to atrocities for centuries. I don't care who you are.”
"Fine," she sighs before climbing into the coffin. She extends her arms. I step forward, frowning, as I pull off the iron cuffs. They burn my fingers, and I drop them into an awaiting box as quickly as possible.
Seeing my mother in this room sends chills through me, but I remain strong.
"Goodbye, Mother," I say.
She smirks. "Remember, you can't come running to me when things go poorly."
With that loving statement, she shuts her eyes and mutters under her breath. I stand above her, frowning, as I wait.
It doesn't take long.
Soon, my skin tingles as thousands of ice-blue snowflakes rush through the room, hovering over my mother before settling into her skin. For a moment, it appears she is glowing, peaceful even, before they disappear.
No one speaks for a long time.
"Is that it?" Nathan whispers in my ear.
I jump. I didn't even hear him approach. "It is," I reply. "She'll remain asleep with her ancestors. I've never heard of anyone who comes out of Eternal Sleep."
He lays his head on my shoulder, his arms wrapped around my waist. "I'm sorry it came to this."
"Me too," I whisper. "But at least you're here with me."
We stand there for a long time, staring at the casket holding my sleeping mother before someone clears their throat from behind me.
"Excuse me, Your Majesty, but something requires your immediate attention."
Chapter49
Get Along
NATHANIEL
* * *
Two months later…
I look in the long, gilded mirror and shift from side to side as I check my fitted white suit.
Fae take their wardrobes very seriously, and I’m no exception. When they mentioned I might need to be fitted for clothes worthy of a consort, I might have been more excited until I realized I would never be dressed as a grass blade again.
I guess that’s what visiting home is for.
