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The chants started to die off, and I could hear my heartbeat in my ears and feel the first tiny pearl of sweat run down my forehead.
Was I about to lose my mind? Do something that would ruin everything?
I looked at Gunther, who was smirking wide. He knew. He knew exactly what my body and soul craved to do at this very moment.
Was that a nod from him? Encouraging me to attack King Algar here in front of the whole world?
My body moved on its own, and I took a trembling step toward Algar. Then another. And another. But just when I thought I might actually commit to attacking the North King, I heard Alrick’s voice pierce through the fog of my mind.
“Long live our beloved queen!”
The noise surrounding me grew louder again, until I found myself back in front of the crowd, fully aware of myself and my surroundings.
“Long live our beloved queen,” Alrick shouted again. I turned in the direction of his voice to find him standing in the first row, squeezed between all the kings and queens and high members of the church. He was dressed in fine dark leather, a cape with fur over his shoulders, similar to Algar’s but less extravagant. He looked straight at me, a look of confidence and pride on his face.
My strength returned as hope resurfaced inside me.
I didn’t smile, as I was expected to act the part, yet I was filled with gratefulness for this man. He had fought for me when we were outnumbered, had believed in me when nobody else did. The Night Queen, they had called me, but he saw through it all and called me his elf. And now he was right by my side again, raising me up when I was about to fall.
I love you,I thought, still staring at him.
I would do whatever it took to protect Alrick. The North King might be after him, but from now on, that monster would have one of the most powerful enemies in the kingdoms.
The Rhine Queen, and if need be, the Night Queen as well.
