《Married to the King of Beasts》


 Chapter One

    As the cool breeze grazed the tall trees and the birds flew cheerfully, Princess Avery Orianna quietly opened her huge window. Awoken by the ray of sunlight hitting her eyes, she was excited to face a new day. Her golden locks swayed gracefully behind her as she sat by her window, admiring the luscious green forest that stretched on the horizon of Ynkerthia Kingdom.


    The large mahogany doors of her room creaked as a servant entered her chambers with a broad smile on her face.


    "Good morning, Your Highness. Breakfast is ready." The servant declared, bowing her head in greeting.


    "Thank you, Meylin. I will head into the dining room in a few minutes." Avery said, a soft smile on her face.


    The servant bowed her head in understanding before leaving. Avery rushed to the bathroom that was connected to her bedroom and freshened up. She removed her nightgown and changed into one of her favorite blue dresses. The corset top was designed with white laces and the sleeves were slightly puffed. The skirt of the dress flowed gracefully, the ombre of light blue to navy blue complimented her porcelain skin.


    She combed her hair and clipped one side with a silver rose pin that was gifted to her by her grandmother. Finally, she painted her lips a light pink and powdered her face lightly.


    Brushing down her dress to straighten it and remove the invisible wrinkles, she walked her way outside her chambers. The knights that guarded her room greeted her, and she returned it with a curt nod. Her heels echoed through the halls of the palace while she walked her way to the dining room, greeting all the servants and knights that she walked past.


    "Princess Avery has arrived!" A knight announced her arrival as she stood in front of a huge wooden door.


    Once the doors opened, the scent of fresh bread and tea wafted through her nose. She almost drooled at the sight of fresh pastries and various cheese plated on the table. She immediately took her spot across from her mother while her father continued to read a few documents, work, she presumed, at the end of the table.


    "Good morning, dear. Did you manage to sleep well?" Her mother said, handing her a piece of bread.


    "Yes, mother. I slept well. How about you?" She replied, taking the bread and reaching for the many of the various cheeses beside her.


    "I slept well, too, darling. However, I noticed the slight bags under your eyes. Don''t tell me you stayed up all night reading again?" Her mother raised an eyebrow, scrutinizing her daughter.


    Avery stopped spreading the cheese on her bread and looked at her mother with wide eyes. It was as if she had been caught stealing cookies from a cookie jar.


    "I... Maybe I did kind of... read a little more than expected." Avery sheepishly smiled at her mother, who shook her head with a soft smile grazing her face.


    A knock was heard from the door.


    "Enter," King Aurelius commanded.


    The knight entered and approached the King. He handed him an envelope with a red seal in the middle.


    "Must be an invitation or something," Avery thought, nibbling on the baked goods in her hand.


    King Aurelius opened the letter and nodded at the knight, ushering him to leave. He began reading the letter while the Queen and Avery continued on with their meal. Even as curiosity piqued them, they just waited for the King to announce the contents of the letter.


    "It''s an invitation to a party. It''s from the Hollingrew Kingdom," the King stated after a few minutes, setting the letter on the table.


    "That''s a surprise. A wealthy kingdom inviting us to a party? That sounds suspicious," Avery raised an eyebrow at her father.


    "It is, but it''s also a chance to interact with other kingdoms and maybe form an alliance or trade," her father replied, sighing.


    "When will it be held, dear?" Queen Allaera asked, focusing her attention on her husband.


    "5 days from now. We must prepare by then."


    "Am I required to go as well?" Avery whined, shoulders slumping as she looked at her father with big round eyes.


    She knew how her father was weak to her pleas and it was obvious how her father looked at her with scrunched eyebrows.


    "Yes, Avery. It''s time that you socialize with other royals your age. You cannot just always spend time with the elderly and weave baskets." Her mother held back a laugh from her words, saving the King from giving in to his daughter''s request.


    Avery''s mouth opened slightly and pouted, "What''s wrong with weaving baskets and tending to the horses?"


    "Child, you..." Her father trailed off, thinking of the right words to say, "You look like an old woman at every party. You only converse with middle-aged people."


    Avery was in shock, her eyes widened and her cheeks tinted in embarrassment. Her reaction caused her parents to laugh softly, eyes softening as they looked at their daughter.


    "We''re not saying that you can''t do those things anymore. We just wanted you to experience something new for a change." Her mother said, reaching out to place her hand on top of Avery''s.


    "That''s fine, mother. I think I could attend the party," she looked down at her plate and when she looked up, her mother was smiling at her fondly.


    "How could I say no to my wonderful parents?" She thought as she straightened her back.


    "I''ll also try and make friends my age," she added, smiling softly at her parents.


    The King and Queen smiled back, making Avery''s heart flutter and thrum with mixed emotions.


    * * * * * * * * * *


    Avery strolled the palace garden, a few books in her arms. A couple of servants that passed by greeted her cheerfully and she smiled warmly at them in return.


    As she walked down the garden, she instinctively took herself to the gazebo. It was designed with orchids hanging from the entrance, a round beige couch in the shape of the gazebo and the exterior was painted white and gold. There was a medium-sized round table in the middle which had a glass tabletop and golden legs.


    Avery sat on the couch, setting her books on the table and picking up the one at the top. As she was about to flip through her book, the crunching of the grass diverted her attention, making her look at the horizon.


    A toddler who was about 5 years old ran to her, wrapping his small chubby arms around her waist. The toddler looked up at her and smiled widely, eyes sparkling and the dimples on both cheeks appearing.


    "Sisi Avery!" The toddler exclaimed excitedly.


    Avery patted the toddler''s head and giggled, gasping in surprise, "Cryus! Sweetheart, what brings you here? It isn''t summer vacation for you yet, right?"


    She smiled at the toddler fondly, chuckling at the attempt of the child to call her sister. Lifting him up, she sat him on her lap and placed her book down on the table. A brief moment of attention for her beloved cousin wouldn''t hurt, right?


    "Mama wanted to talk to Uncle. I finished my lessons earlier, you know?" Cryus chirped happily.


    Cryus Orrine is the son of King Errin and Queen Riona from the Empire of Taegeris. Growing up, Cryus was attached to Avery like a little brother. Every season, the family visits the Ynkerthia Kingdom at least three times a year or whenever both families are invited to a party.


    "Oh. I see. That''s good," Avery mumbled before hugging the toddler, "I missed you soooo much!"


    "I missed you so much, too!" Cryus giggled, hugging the Princess back.


    "Prince!" A servant called out, running towards the gazebo.


    Avery faked a gasp and looked at Cryus, "Did you sneak out of the palace again?"Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    The toddler giggled and looked at Avery sheepishly. She then poked his sides, tickling him as she giggled along.


    "You naughty boy. You couldn''t wait for a servant, hm?" She said playfully, still drawing out melodic laughter from the child.


    "It was my fault, Princess. I didn''t bring him to you sooner. I apologize," the servant bowed her head, apologizing and panic lacing her voice.


    "That''s alright. This little one is used to sneaking out anyway," Avery smiled softly, looking back at Cryus.


    "Sisi Avery is always here! I know because Sisi told me before," Cryus declared proudly, wrapping his arms around Avery''s neck, hugging her once again.


    "Aww. That''s right," she pulled away and grinned at the toddler, "Now, do you want me to read for you, darling?" She pinched his cheek softly.


    "Yes, please! I want the ones with dragons and knights!" Cryus cheered happily.


    Avery snickered and decided to read a book about dragons from ancient times, which was Cryus''s favorite kind of story. Luckily, she brought one with her instead of her usual romance novels. Being a little careless has its perks, it seems.


    "Shall I prepare some tea and snacks, Princess?" The servant offered, her voice strained as she contained her squeals at the adorable sight in front of her.


    "That would be lovely. Thank you," Avery replied before proceeding to read to her beloved cousin.


    * * * * * * * * * *


    Avery was ecstatic when she found out her Aunt and Uncle would be staying until the day of the party. She had missed a couple of months without seeing Cryus and she was excited to read to him more about dragons as well as play with him. The small family stayed in a larger guest room designated especially for them.


    After a cheerful and hearty dinner, Avery headed back to the gazebo. At night, when everyone was either busy or sleeping, she would sneak out to the gardens and stay there to watch the fireflies flutter.


    She often brought a book with her and since she did not get to read her book earlier, she decided that now was a good time to read. It was a good thing she left them in their original position from that morning.


    "Do you want me to make you some tea, Princess?" The familiar voice of her servant called out.


    She turned to face her with a grin, "Only if you join me, Meylin."


    The servant chuckled and bowed before heading back inside the palace to prepare some tea. It wasn''t unusual to see both women together as they were childhood friends. Meylin''s mother was the head maid, which led to the two girls always spending time with each other.


    Social status aside, they never let it get in their way. However, Meylin would always be on her best behavior when there were other royals, even if Avery told her it was alright not to be too formal. Meylin was assigned as Avery''s personal maid as per the request of the Princess, which Meylin happily agreed on.


    Meylin came back with a tray of cookies and tea after a couple of minutes. She sat beside Avery as she set their tea and favorite treats.


    "Have you fulfilled your promise to me?" Avery questioned, looking at her friend with a teasing smirk, book forgotten and attention diverted to her friend''s love life.


    Meylin blushed furiously, a small gasp left her lips, "How could you ask that so suddenly?! I haven''t... I haven''t even talked to him properly yet."


    "Oh. I forgot. They''re supposed to go to the Hollingrew Kingdom to notify the people there about us attending," Avery giggled.


    Meylin huffed and whined, "You''re too cruel, Avery. No matter how much I try, I could never get Captain Richtan alone."


    In moments of privacy like this, it was the only time when all formalities disappear and their friendly chatter and kept secrets come to light.


    "Don''t worry. I''m sure when they come back, you''ll have a chance to confess," Avery reassured her, caressing Meylin''s hand and sighing dreamily, "I hope someday I can find a love like yours."


    "What kind of man are you searching for, actually?"


    "I want a man who is independent, strong, kind, muscular, and smart." Avery replied, staring into the night sky, eyes sparkling at the thought of her ideal lover.


    "That sounds like a knight to me, Avery. You''re sure you don''t like Captain Richtan? Because if you do, I swear I''ll add salt to your bath from now on." Meylin squinted her eyes at the Princess, threatening her in a playful manner.


    Avery giggled, "What nonsense are you talking about? The captain is not even my type of guy. You can have him all you want, silly."


    "Just make sure of that, because even if you''re the Princess or my friend, I will threaten you."


    Avery laughed out loud and Meylin followed. The two basked in the silence of the night and the sounds of their laughter, along with the sounds of the crickets, were the only sounds that filled the air.


    * * * * * * * * * *


    "Let''s get you changed." Meylin said, unbuttoning the dress from the back.


    "It has gotten pretty late, huh? If it wasn''t for the butler catching us, then we might''ve stayed until morning," Avery smiled at the mirror in front of her.


    "Well, whenever the two of us are together, it''s hard to break up the conversation," Meylin chuckled, looking at the Princess through the mirror.


    Once the dress dropped onto the floor, Meylin immediately helped the Princess remove the extra clothing, like the thin clothing the Princess wore to keep her warm, before slipping up her nightgown.


    "You had better head back now, Meylin. It''s late and I''m sure your mother will scold me tomorrow for keeping you up late," Avery asked, a sheepish look on her face.


    "Nonsense. Mother couldn''t do anything about it anyway, since we''ve been stubborn ever since we were little."


    "You''re right. Even if she tattled to my mother, she would just get a reply of ''Let the girls have fun.''" Avery chuckled, smoothing out her nightgown before facing Meylin, who groaned.


    "The Queen is so cool about it while my mother keeps on telling me to sleep early."


    "Well, it is pretty late right now. You should probably head back. Mother will scold me tomorrow if she notices the bags under my eyes again."


    "Don''t stay up too late, alright?" Meylin chuckled, "Goodnight, Avery."


    "Goodnight, Meylin."


    The two girls hugged before Meylin did what she was told. Once the door was shut, Avery headed to her bookshelf and scanned through her numerous books, fingers gliding gently along the spines of the thick books.


    "I should probably get my other books from the study room," she muttered to herself.


    She slipped on her thick baby pink robe, tying the front to keep her warm from the cold night air. She headed out of her room and walked her way to the study room.


    There were guards scattered, patrolling the whole palace. When some guards saw her, they would just bow and then continue on with their duties. Even late at night, they never said anything to the Princess, since she would just be stubborn about heading back to her room as always.


    Arriving in the study room, Avery closed the door behind her. She strode to the bookshelf dedicated to romance novels. Her breath hitched in excitement as she scanned the books. It hadn''t been long since she arrived, but she already knew what books to get. But scanning some more wouldn''t hurt, right?


    "Princess?"


    Startled, she turned around to see Captain Richtan standing a few feet away from her. She mentally hit herself for not hearing the creak of the door.


    "For the love of Athena, this man never remembers how to announce his presence soundly!" She thought, sighing.


    "Captain. What brings you here?" Avery asked, relaxing.


    "I saw someone enter this room and thought maybe it was Meylin," The captain replied, a hint of pink dusting his ears at the mention of the maid''s name.


    "Meylin went to bed just now. Her mother would be furious if she headed back later." There was a hint of teasing in her voice and surely, the captain noticed it.


    "Please don''t tease me, Princess. It''s been a long day and lately, it''s hard to get some alone time with her with all the events and training going on. The few minutes were never enough, since they always turn into mere seconds." Richtan groaned, walking towards the soft red couch in small steps.


    "You two are impossible. I should seriously ask Father if you could have a day off or something. Or... maybe a week is better," Avery resumed while scanning the shelf for other books.


    "I would love that idea, but my men are too insufferable to be left alone. The vice captain is going to just agree with their antics if I left them." He sighed in defeat. Imagining the possible scenarios that might happen made the knight shiver.


    Avery chuckled softly, glancing at the knight who was now seated on one of the couches in the middle of the room.


    "I would actually help the vice captain manage the knights if that''s what it takes to get you and Meylin to have some time alone."


    "No. Absolutely not. Knowing you, Princess, you might just join them and thrash the whole knight''s quarters." The terror in the knight''s voice made Avery laugh out loud.


    "Although, we do miss you singing during our drinking sessions and having fun with us," Richtan added.


    "It''s just been so busy. I miss singing for the knights as well, but... Father held me captive in order for me to study. I hate studying, you know? All those trades, social sciences, and ruling a kingdom... They''re just too much." Sadness filled the Princess''s voice as she turned around to face the knight, clutching 3 books to her chest.


    "Meylin misses your singing, too. I know it''s hard and you hate studying, but I assure you, Princess. Once you''re finished, you can finally do all the things you''ve always wanted to do and more." The knight smiled warmly.


    "You''re right. Thank you, Richtan." She smiled then sighed, "I probably should head back before the head maid checks on my room."


    "You mean Meylin''s mother?"


    "Yeah. I''ll be banned from reading books at night if I don''t head back soon."


    "Let me escort you, then." Richtan stood from his seat and ushered Avery to walk first.


    He opened the door for her and they both rounded the corner to where her room was, walking side by side.


    "I wanted to tell her how much I love her, but somehow, the Gods don''t approve and keep on interrupting us." Richtan complained, kicking the ground lightly like a child.


    "Stop being so childish. I''m sure Meylin tried as well, but... maybe it''s just not yet the right time." Avery tried to hold in her giggles, but failed to do so.


    "Ugh. I just want her all to myself, you know? I can tell how the other knights look at her as well. Sometimes, I just want to poke their eyes and tell them that woman is mine!" He exclaimed, making Avery let out a hearty laugh.


    "Goodness, Captain! You''re so possessive, but here''s another idea. Why don''t you just shout your confession once you see her?" Avery looked up at Richtan, who stopped in his tracks.


    She noticed her door, but her eyes never left the captain. She was smirking at him in a challenging way that made the knight groan and sigh.


    "That''s great actually, but if it so happens that the King and Queen are present, then I might just bury my head on the ground."


    "It''s better than having her mother present, though." She wiggled her eyebrows.


    Richtan clicked his tongue and opened the door for her, "Goodnight, Princess. You better get a loooot of sleep because your mind seems to be in a playful mood."


    Avery laughed at him, "Goodnight, Captain, but remember. I have given you ideas, alright? I''m actually trying to help and I''m still cheering on you both."


    "See you tomorrow, Princess." Richtan bid, smirking at her before shutting the door.


    Avery shook her head fondly before setting the books on her bed. She took off her robe and hung it behind the couch. She then climbed on her bed and sat comfortably before picking up a book that read, Princess, Don''t Fall in Love with the Monster.


    Opening the book where she left her handmade bookmark, she sighed in content, not caring if she stayed up late or having to hear her mother''s complaints about her sleepiness for tomorrow''s breakfast.


    As the silent and peaceful evening progressed in the Kingdom of Ynkerthia, little did they know that somewhere in a kingdom known for its greedy and ruthless king, someone was planning how to destroy and claim the small peaceful kingdom.

 Chapter Two

    AVERY


    Before I knew it, days had already passed, and it was time for us to depart for the Hollingrew Kingdom. I stood outside with my maid, Meylin, and the Captain of the Silver Knights, Sir Richtan. I was inwardly giggling to myself to see them both look awkward and shy when, just yesterday, I saw them confessing to each other in the rose garden. I didn¡¯t tell them what I saw, but I gave them both a knowing look when we saw each other at dinner last night.


    ¡°Are you ready, my darling?¡± Mother asked, placing a gentle hand on my shoulder. I looked up at her and nodded.


    ¡°Yes. Though, I can¡¯t say I¡¯m excited either. I rarely stand out at these kinds of events,¡± I said, watching as the servants and knights loaded our things into the carriages.


    Everyone was working so hard that I felt like I should do something. My mother gently patted my shoulder before walking towards my father. I sighed once more.


    ¡°Don¡¯t look so glum, Princess. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll enjoy the ball and the trip either way,¡± Meylin cheered me up, wrapping an arm around my shoulders.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I brought my books with me, too. I just hope I can read smoothly while in that carriage.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t read too much, though. You should also take time to rest and watch the mountains and fields as we travel.¡±


    I gave her a look, ¡°Meylin. Nothing can compare to the beauty of the mountains and fields here in our kingdom,¡± I poked her cheek, ¡°Isn¡¯t that the reason why a lot of neighboring kingdoms are dying to form an alliance with us?¡±


    Meylin gasped and pondered for a moment, ¡°I guess you¡¯re right, Your Highness.¡±


    I smiled victoriously as we were then escorted to our carriage. The King and Queen rode in a separate carriage while I rode with my maid. As we ventured out of the castle gates, I looked back, praying and hoping that nothing bad would happen to our peaceful kingdom.


    * * * * * * * * * *


    The ride was smooth and relaxing. I read the three books that I brought with me inside the carriage. It was quite a shame that I didn¡¯t get to grab my other books from my luggage when we stopped earlier. My mother scolded me the night before our departure for bringing too many books, but I told her that I needed something to ease my boredom while traveling. Eventually, she gave up, and I packed as many books as I could fit in one of my luggages.


    ¡°Do you want to have some biscuits, Your Highness?¡± Meylin asked, pulling out a jar from her bag.


    ¡°Yes. Thank you.¡± I grabbed one and was surprised to get a ginger cookie. I looked at Meylin, ¡°Did you not pack madeleines?¡±


    ¡°I did, but I mixed some other biscuits so that you wouldn¡¯t get bored with just madeleines.¡± She smiled widely, making me smile back.


    As I munched on the cookie, I looked out to see the trees passing by. It was a good thing that it was such a sunny day. As far as I know, the travel duration from our kingdom to the Hollingrew Kingdom is about 2 to 4 days. Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    It¡¯s surprising how it took us just 2 days and a half.


    When we exited the forest and I saw the field of dandelions across the horizon, I knew we were close. I haven¡¯t gone to the Hollingrew Kingdom, but I¡¯ve read books and seen pictures of what it looked like.


    It was said that the king of this kingdom was ruthless, selfish, and¡­ a womanizer. The thought of meeting the king made me shiver from fear.


    ¡°Princess? Are you feeling alright?¡± Meylin asked, placing a hand on my knee.


    I smiled, ¡°Yes. I¡¯m fine. It¡¯s just¡­ have you not heard of what other people say about the king of this kingdom?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I have. I just thought they were baseless rumors, but if Your Highness is worried, then maybe it¡¯s true.¡± Meylin¡¯s voice was soft, and it made me think that maybe it was just a baseless rumor that nobles spread.


    "We won¡¯t know until we find out, then."


    * * * * * * * * * *


    We were escorted to another part of the castle once we arrived. The servant told us that it was where all the other guests were staying and that the king couldn¡¯t greet us since he was busy meeting with his councilors.


    ¡°Here is your room, Princess Avery. Your parents will be in the room down the hall,¡± the servant said.


    ¡°How come they¡¯re not staying next to my room?¡± I asked politely. I did not want to sound rude or offensive, but I found it weird that my parents wouldn¡¯t be next to me.


    ¡°My apologies, Your Highness, but the room next door is already occupied by someone important,¡± the servant opened the door for me and I entered.


    The room was spacious and clean. The bed was also made and there were some snacks prepared on the small table in the middle of the room. The one that caught my eye was the balcony. I walked towards it and opened the door. The wind blew in my face and the view of the gardens and mountains came into view. A small gasp left my lips and I sighed in contentment.


    ¡°We hope you enjoy your stay, Princess. I shall leave you to your privacy,¡± the servant bid, and left.


    I stood on the balcony and glanced at the balcony of the person¡¯s room next to mine. I huffed and propped my arm on the ledge, resting my chin on the palm of my hand.


    ¡°I wonder how important this person is for the king to let them choose their room,¡± I mumbled to myself.


    I shook my head and just enjoyed the warm breeze and peacefulness of the kingdom. Unfortunately, that peace was disturbed by a loud crash from the room next to mine. I flinched and panicked, wondering if that person had been hurt.


    Without hesitation, I rushed out my door and knocked on my neighbor¡¯s door.


    ¡°Excuse me! I heard a loud sound and was checking if you¡¯re alright.¡± I yelled out. No one was around, so I couldn¡¯t call for help.


    I knocked on the door repeatedly when, suddenly, it opened. I looked up to see a very tall man with a muscular figure. He was shirtless and was breathing heavily. His tanned skin was hinting of a slight redness to it and beads of sweat dripped down from his neck to the valley of his hard-looking pectorals.


    I shook my head to erase the naughty thoughts and asked, ¡°Is¡­ everything alright, Sir?¡±


    ¡°You.¡± His voice was raspy and cold, ¡°Who are you to disturb me?¡±


    I felt cold sweat run down my spine as I heard the man¡¯s voice. I blinked at him several times, trying to make sense of his words.


    Disturb him? I thought he was hurt!


    ¡°I apologize if I disturbed you, but that loud crash made me think that you got hurt,¡± I said in a firm voice. My eyebrows knitted together as I looked him in the eyes.


    My heart pounded loudly against my chest as I met the man¡¯s eyes. His cold crimson eyes stared into mine, piercing through my entire being.


    I held his gaze, feeling my body burn at his intense stare. For a moment, I thought the world stopped as we looked into each other¡¯s eyes.


    The silence was broken when he groaned and said in a gruff voice, ¡°I don¡¯t need any help. Even if I was bleeding in this room or not, I would never call for help.¡±


    I was startled by his cold words. My eyes widened, and I cast my gaze onto the floor.


    ¡°I apologize. I was merely concerned, but if you claim that you are fine, then I will leave you be. Good day, sir,¡± I said dismissively before storming into my room and slamming the door shut behind me.


    I leaned against the door and sighed, feeling my heart beat out of my chest. I took a couple of deep breaths and finally, I was able to calm down.


    I walked towards the plush couch in the middle of the room and lay there, draping an arm to cover my eyes.


    He is a handsome man with an air of authority and royalty, but he seems like a bastard who pushes people away. I never want to bump into that man again.

 Chapter Three

    AVERY


    After that incident, I busied myself with the books I brought and stayed in my room until sunset. Just then, there was a knock on my door and a servant announced that there would be a small gathering in the banquet hall to welcome the guests.


    I looked at Meylin who was smiling down at me. She said, ¡°Well, Your Highness. I think it¡¯s time for you to get ready.¡±


    I sighed, ¡°I assume the gathering will not be as small as the servant had said.¡±


    ¡°Sure, but now is your time to interact with the nobles and royalty of other lands, Your Highness,¡± Meylin stated, making me close my book and sigh once more.


    ¡°I am starting to think that my mother told you to let me outside this room even once during this event,¡± I grumbled, standing up from my seat and heading towards the connected bathroom of my chambers.


    Meylin only chuckled as she trailed behind me, ¡°No. She did not tell me anything, but I¡¯m only telling you that as your friend.¡±


    I just smiled and got ready for the banquet. Meylin made sure to bathe me properly with the oils and soaps that we brought. I tend to get headaches and nausea when I use different scents of oils and soaps, so I made sure to bring the ones I use at home.


    After bathing, I got dressed in a simple yet elegant lavender-colored gown with little flower patterns that were embroidered on the hem of the dress. Meylin brushed my hair and placed a small clip with a white rose design. She also did my makeup and made sure I looked decent at the very least.


    I stood in front of a full-length mirror and admired my appearance. I twirled and smiled, ¡°This is amazing, Meylin. I don¡¯t¡­ look like myself at all.¡±


    Meylin stood beside me and smiled through the mirror, ¡°It is natural that I will make Your Highness look the most beautiful at the banquet later.¡±


    I smiled, and then a thought suddenly popped into my head.


    What would I do if a lot of men approached me? I do not want to be the center of attention nor do I want to interact with such beings. I despise womanizers and flirts who boast of their riches.


    As if sensing the worry I was feeling, Meylin took my hand and made me face her. She looked determined, ¡°If you are worrying about despicable men approaching you, do not worry. Sir Richtan will be there to observe and be your guard for the evening.¡±


    I smiled warmly at her and nodded, "I am relieved that he will be there. I am getting anxiety just from imagining the amount of people that might crowd me later."


    "There is nothing to worry about, Your Highness. You will be amazing," Meylin smiled and escorted me outside my room.


    The halls were lit beautifully and it was so bright that I thought I might go blind. The king of this land is truly showing off how wealthy and powerful their kingdom is.


    The walk to the banquet hall was long, but it wasn''t unpleasant. When we reached the big wooden doors of the hall, I swallowed thickly and clenched my hands into fists. If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    It''s alright, Avery. Your mother and father are inside. We can go straight to them once we enter.


    I mentally encouraged myself as a guard announced my arrival along with the opening of the doors. I was blinded by the shining chandelier for a moment and once my vision cleared, I noticed everyone''s eyes on me. I couldn''t help the blush that was creeping up my cheeks.


    I took a deep breath and scanned the room for my parents. I could feel everyone''s eyes on me. I then saw my parents talking to a man in a white suit adorned with different kinds of gold jewels and accessories. When I walked closer, I heard my father''s hushed voice.


    "I... do not have anything to offer you of value, Your Majesty. My kingdom is nothing but small."


    The king laughed, "Don''t be ridiculous! You have great lands that would cost a lot of fortune!"


    Then, my Mother''s eyes met mine, and she smiled softly and politely, "Your Majesty, may I introduce my daughter, Avery."


    The king turned and his bright blue eyes met mine. His lips curved into a sly smirk, and he took my hand in his and kissed my knuckles, "It is a pleasure to finally meet you, Princess. My name is Ferhann Melodius."


    I felt a chill down my spine when his lips touched my skin. I forced a polite smile, "It is nice to meet you, Your Majesty."


    "I must say, King Aurelius. Your daughter is quite the catch. Do you accept marriage proposals?" King Ferhann said, a domineering smile plastered on his face.


    I paled at his words and immediately looked at my father, who looked like he was about to pass out. I was about to say something when my father spoke, "Marriage proposals are welcome, Your Majesty. However, my daughter and I have not spoken about that topic just yet."


    King Ferhann laughed out loud, "Then, maybe another time. I shall offer that once more when the princess is ready."


    He looked at me and I stared at him blankly. He bowed and said, "Enjoy the banquet, everyone."


    The prince left, and I looked at my father. Shock and panic were evident on my face, "Father. You must not marry me to that man. I... I do not want to have a miserable marriage."


    "I will not allow it, my dear. But..." My father looked around with sad eyes and then finally looked at me, "King Ferhann has threatened our kingdom and I... for once, do not know what to do."


    My eyes widened in surprise. I could not believe my ears. I knew the man was ruthless and a womanizer and the thought of marrying that man made me feel sick in my stomach.


    My parents and I stood there for who knows how long until I decided to grab a drink. I took a flute of champagne and headed to the empty balcony. Leaning against the ledge, I downed the drink in my hand and sighed softly.


    Why would he want our kingdom? We don''t even own a lot of gems and mines. What could he probably want?


    As my head swarmed with thoughts, I noticed a man on the balcony next to where I was. I recognized him as my next-room neighbor. He was wearing a black suit with silver accessories on his chest. His hair was slicked back, and he was holding a goblet of red wine. His jaws were clenching, and his face glowed under the moonlight.


    I propped my arm on the ledge and rested my chin on my hand. I mumbled to myself, "If you weren''t so rude, I might have fallen in love with you."


    The man turned to me and our eyes met. I was shocked and immediately turned to look in the other direction.


    I traced the rim of the flute I was holding when I felt a warm breath bush against my neck, "Were you enjoying the view, Princess?"


    I felt goosebumps on my skin and I immediately turned to face the man. However, I lost my footing and was about to fall. I braced for the impact, but I did not feel the cold hard floor. My eyes, which were shut tight, slowly opened, only to be met with wide crimson eyes.


    How did this man get here so fast?!


    I realized that he had caught me before I fell. His thick arm was on my back and his other hand was holding onto my wrist. My cheeks immediately burned from embarrassment and I straightened up, letting go of his hold on me.


    "I apologize. You surprised me, so I... lost my balance," I said, moving an inch away from him.


    "You are one clumsy princess," the man stated.


    I looked at him, offended, "Pardon? I was... I was about to fall because you startled me," I retorted.


    The man smirked at me. Not the kind of smirk that was boastful. Rather, it was enticing and... playful.


    "Then, I guess you had better be on your guard always, Princess," the man left after saying those words, leaving me stunned.


    I... promised myself that I wouldn''t ever want to meet that man again, but... I''m guessing fate had other plans.

 Chapter Four

    AVERY


    I stayed outside for a while. When I felt a chill, I deciced to head back inside. My eyes slowly widened when I saw King Ferhann crouched down on the elegant dance floor. The man I was talking to earlier loomed over him, his face was dark with rage.


    "You are one brutal king, Fervocour." King Ferhann hissed, eyes glowing. The king looming above him smirked and bent over. He whispered something to King Ferhann which made him yell.


    "You bastard!" He was about to punch the man before him, but the bigger man dodged and kicked him on the back.


    "From this day onward, I will claim Ynkerthia and marry the sole heiress of the kingdom." The man declared. I gasped and rushed before him.


    "You can''t do that! I won''t allow it!" I was furious, but my father held me back and said the words I didn''t expect him to say.


    "We accept, Your Majesty." My father bowed and so did my mother. I was in shock. I got out of my father''s hold and met the man face to face.


    I got on my toes and got close to his face. I hissed, angry, "You can have my kingdom. You can have my family''s riches, but you can''t have me. Never."


    I was even more annoyed when he smirked, his crimson eyes shone brighter than when he was enraged. He leaned closer and I could feel his warm breath on my lips which were mere inches apart.


    "We''ll see about that, won''t we... Princess?" He whispered, voice deep and hushed.


    My cheeks flared and I huffed, letting the tension rise between us before leaving. I ignored the hushed whispers of the other guests and walked to my room. I slammed the door shut and groaned. I sat on the bed and took off my heels. I sighed.


    Just as I was about to lay on my bed, there was a soft knock on my door.


    "Your Highness? It''s Meylin. Her Majesty told me to follow you." Meylin''s soft voice brought me comfort.


    "Please come in." I called out. The doors opened and her expression said it all. She looked like she was about to cry.


    Once the doors were shut behind her, she rushed forward and hugged me. She started crying loudly. I giggled and rubbed her back, "What''s wrong? Why are you crying, Meylin?"


    "I heard everything! I heard how... how the King of Beasts wants to marry you! I''m scared to lose you, Avery! I don''t want you to marry that heartless king!" She wailed. I was curious at her choice of words about the king and pushed her off me gently.


    "King of Beasts? What do you mean?" I asked, brows furrowed slightly.


    Meylin sniffled and said, "Oh. You don''t know him? He''s the most fearsome king in the continent. He''s slain thousands of monsters and conquered several kingdoms for the past years."


    "King Typhone Fervocour. No wonder his name rings a bell." I mumbled softly to myself.


    "Yes. Him. He''s known for being a ruthless killer, heartless, a womanizer, and a tyrant." Meylin wiped her tears away and grabbed my shoulders. She added, "Don''t let that man get to you, alright? He doesn''t deserve you."


    I sighed and looked down, "But what can I do? I don''t want him to kill my parents or destroy our kingdom." You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    We both looked at our laps and sighed for the nth time. I didn''t want to think that I''ll be marrying a man as cruel as him, but I have to save my home.


    After a few moments of silence, Meylin helped me get dressed for bed. We talked about how nice it would be if she could come with me to the King of Beasts'' kingdom as my personal maid.


    "The marriage will happen before you even know it." Meylin said as she brushed my hair gently. I stared at my reflection in the mirror and imagined myself in a very exquisite and detailed dress.


    "A wife only in paper and for status. I never dreamed of a love like that. I always... wished for a love filled with joy and passion." I said mindlessly. Meylin hugged me and sniffled once again.


    "I''m so sorry you had to endure that pain, Your Highness. I only hope that this marriage can at least bring you a little bit of relief for the safety of our kingdom." She said and hugged me tighter.


    I have to accept my fate. For the sake of my home and the ones I love.


    **********


    It was the middle of the night and my eyes are wide open. The room next door was too loud that I woke up in the middle of my deep sleep. The high pitched moans of a woman annoyed me to no end.


    I growled softly and jumped out of my bed. I grabbed my pink silk robe, hastily wore it, and walked out of my room barefoot. I stood in front of my neighbor''s room and knocked on it loudly. When no one answered, I knocked even louder. The door clicked and moments later, the door opened. There stood a half-naked man. His hair was damp and was dripping with sweat. His chest glistened and his muscles were highlighted under the moonlight. I swallowed thickly.


    I cleared my throat and said angrily, "Can you keep it down, Your Majesty? I''m trying to get some sleep."


    The king revealed his smug smirk and said in a low voice, "Oh? Is that so, Princess? I apologize, but... who told you to order a King?"


    His voice sent a shiver down my spine. I noticed how his eyes slowly rake up my figure. I subconsciously wrapped the robe around me and crossed my arms over my chest. My cheeks flushed under his heated gaze.


    "As much as I''d like to ignore your loud... voices, I can''t because it just gets louder and louder." I huffed.


    "Hmm... but why is it that only you were awoken by our loudness? The other person next to my room doesn''t seem to mind." He playfully said. I blushed even brighter and opened my mouth to say something, but no words escaped my lips.


    "Just keep it down, if you may! Have a good night, Your Majesty!" I hissed before storming off to my room. I slammed my door shut behind me.


    There was silence for a few moments which made me think that he listened to my request. I was relieved for a second, not until the loud moans started again. This time, it got even louder. The bed was banging on the wall and the woman was not moaning anymore. She was screaming. I laid on my bed wide awake as the noise continued on until dawn.


    This bastard is really testing my patience.


    **********


    During breakfast the next day, King Ferhann''s face was slightly swollen because of his fight with King Typhone the night before. The ruthless king was nowhere to be seen and I don''t know if I should be glad or sad about it.


    The dining hall was peaceful. Everyone was making small talk whilst I dissolve into my seat and ate my meal in silence. Just then, the large, heavy, oak doors opened, revealing King Typhone in all his glory. He was wearing a pair of loose brown pants, a white V neck shirt which reveled his muscular chest, and his red cape that had white fur lining on the sides. His hair was damp and disheveled as if he just got out from the shower. I only took a glance and I could feel the tip of my ears turning red.


    "You''re late and you''re clothes are indecent." King Ferhann mused. He didn''t hide the displeasure on his face as the other king strutted inside the dining hall.


    "It''s better late than never, Ferhann." He said, smug and proud. Our eyes met and I was the first one to break the eye contact.


    I felt his presence behind me and I heard him say in a dark and commanding voice, "Get out of that seat."


    I thought he was speaking to me so I got up, but I felt his huge yet warm hand on my shoulder. He slowly guided me to sit back down and I looked at the man beside me. The king''s big hand was squeezing the man''s shoulder tightly. The man whimpered and immediately got up. He sat on another vacant seat while the king sat beside me.


    "Is that how you win a woman''s heart? By intimidating her?" King Ferhann asked.


    "I''m only protecting what''s mine. Those who dare touch what''s mine might just end up on the other end of my sword." King Typhone replied firmly. His voice was laced with a possessive lilt and I shivered at it.


    Silence enveloped the whole room and even my parents did not have any words to say. I was stunned and I stared at him as he glared at King Ferhann.


    Oh. Did my heart just skipped a beat?

 Chapter Five

    TYPHONE


    The moment I arrived in Hollingrew Kingdom, I knew nothing good would happen. I arrived a day earlier so I would not intimidate anyone with Calagon, my adopted red scaled dragon. I am not a dragon slayer like Ferhann, but I do kill monsters that invade my kingdom. In this world, dragons are not the only mystical creatures that roam. Some are vicious and annoying.


    I was provided a room that''s not different from other guests as per my request. I did not want any unwanted attention. It pisses me off.


    Currently, I am having breakfast with my future wife and some other people. I was glaring at Ferhann and couldn''t help the victorious smirk on my face as I noticed how swollen his cheek was.


    Bastard deserved it after telling me how much he wanted to fuck the princess of Ynkerthia.


    The small princess was too fragile in my eyes and I for one hated how he saw the innocent princess. That night, Ferhann also told me how he wanted to take over Ynkerthia and treat the people as slaves while he spend the kingdom''s riches. It wasn''t a well-known kingdom, but it is rich in gems and diamonds. Their mines are hidden where only the royal family and the workers know where the mines are.


    It was on a whim and pity when I declared to claim Ynkerthia and marry their precious princess. It was surprising, however, when the king and queen agreed on it almost immediately. Their daughter was a different story though. She was fierce and straightforward despite her typical wallflower appearance. The look on her face proved that she hated the thought of marrying me.


    I snapped out of my thoughts when a lady asked me, "Tell us, King Typhone. Why have you chosen this gullible princess instead of the other worthy ladies in the banquet?"


    Cheeky woman wants to humiliate my princess.


    I sliced the meat and watched a little bit of blood drip onto the cheap porcelain. I said, "What''s it to you, my lady? I am free to choose any woman I want. You need not to know my reason."


    I stabbed the meat and popped it in my mouth. I smiled politely at her and it was obvious how tense she got. It was a pathetic attempt to rile me up, but an attempt nonetheless.


    "Can''t you be nice to other people? They''ll think you''re some brute that just became king." Ferhann reprimanded me. I laughed, loud.


    "Forgive me for laughing, but your kind and innocent facade is not working on me." I cracked my neck and looked at my rival, "Everyone knows your dirty secrets, Ferhann. You don''t need to hide."


    That was the last straw. Ferhann stood up from his seat and said, "I challenge you to a duel, Typhone! The winner shall have Princess Avery''s hand in marriage!"


    I slowly stood from my seat, looming over the other guests. I glared at my rival and said, "I accept."


    The princess intervened and said loudly, "I''m not some object that you can just claim!"


    Her hands were clenched and her eyes were glistening with unshed tears. Her whole body was trembling and she looked so scared yet so strong. A part of me wanted to devour her then and there. You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    I leaned in close to her face, our lips barely touching as I whispered in a soft and hushed tone, "Trust me, princess. You''re not just some prize to me. I''ll win and prove to you how much stronger I am."


    Her cheeks flushed and her brows furrowed slightly. I smirked in triumph.


    Even her nose gets red when she blushes. How cute.


    **********


    We gathered in the knights'' training ground. Everyone was watching even the servants.


    I hate it when there''s too much people, but... I''m here for my princess so I''ll just have to deal with it.


    It wasn''t a bloody duel. It''s a battle where we use wooden swords, kind of like training, if you will. I took off my cape and handed it to my right hand man, Grimore.


    "Your Majesty, is this even alright? I mean... this fight is almost meaningless or rather... childish." Grimore folded my cape and held it in his arm.


    I chuckled and grabbed a wooden sword from the rack, "Ferhann is an easy target. He gets angry with the words that come out of my mouth. I enjoy teasing the bastard."


    My right hand man sighed in defeat, "Just don''t kill him, Your Majesty. There''ll be political issues if it so happen that you ACCIDENTALLY killed the king of Hollingrew Kingdom in a petty duel."


    I noted how he elaborated the word "accidentally". I smirked and swung my sword once, "Calm down, Grimore. I won''t kill him... yet."


    Ferhann arrived moments later wearing a more comfortable attire. His long hair was pulled back in a ponytail and his shirt was opened up to reveal his chest.


    Even in this kind of duel he still looks so prim and proper.


    I held my head high, "Are you ready to lose again, Ferhann?"


    "I''ll make sure you eat your words, Typhone." He snarled.


    A knight stood between us and set our positions. Once the go signal was made, I let him launch the first attack. It was futile as I swung hard and hit his back. He groaned and swung at me at a fast speed, hitting my stomach. I winced slightly.


    "You''ve gotten weak, Typhone!" He taunted.


    I scoffed, "Ha! I just didn''t want to embarrass the great king of Hollingrew."


    I kept a distance between us and got into a fighting stance. He got back up on his feet almost immediately and charged towards me. Our swords clashed and neither of us was willing to give up. I changed my position and swung my sword from below. The tip of my sword hit his chin and he coughed up a bit of blood.


    He took a couple of steps back and coughed. He glared at me and charged again, hitting me a dozen times. When he realized it wasn''t doing anything, he decided to do an underhand trick. I saw through his plan and decided to dodge his attacks.


    I hit him a few more times, drawing a few blood on his fine porcelain skin. Ferhann panted heavily as he tried to attack me again.


    I''m getting bored. Let''s get this over and done with.


    **********


    The duel ended with Ferhann down on his knees, sweat dripped down onto the concrete, and few droplets of blood trickled down his arm while I stood tall, proud, and victorious. I huffed.


    "That was fun. I haven''t worked out a sweat that hard for quite some time." I uttered before turning my back on him, "She''s mine, Ferhann. There''s nothing you can do about it."


    I walked towards my future wife and smirked. I watched her eyes slowly widen and her cheeks flushed a light shade of crimson.


    I leaned in, careful not to intimidate her, but risky enough for our lips to brush ever so slightly, "I told you, princess. You''re mine and I won''t let anyone take you away from me."


    "You''re getting too boastful, Your Majesty." She snapped, crossing her arms over her chest.


    I laughed, "Am I now? I just wanted to impress my future wife is all."


    Grimore walked up behind me and bowed. He handed me my cape and I slung it on my shoulder. I stood up straight, "I''ll be heading to your castle in two days, princess. We have to discuss our... wedding preparations."


    I looked behind her to meet her parents'' eyes. I bowed my head and turned on my heel.


    "Isn''t it too sudden, Your Majesty? The wedding, I mean." Grimore asked.


    "No. In fact, I want it to be as soon as it can." I said firmly.


    I walked back into my room and frowned at the smell of it.


    "Change my sheets, will you? That woman''s scent is all over the place. It stinks." I said coldly as I strutted to the bathroom.


    I looked in the mirror and pushed my hair back.


    I''m going to make sure no one steals you from me, princess.

 Chapter Six

    TYPHONE


    The next morning, I decided to leave a day early to fly back to my kingdom along with Grimore. People still have this notion that dragons don''t belong with humans and that they should be banned from existing, but it''s just a shitty excuse to enslave them.


    It was still dark when I walked out of my room. I stopped in front of my future wife''s room and slipped a note under her door.


    Sleep well, my princess. I shall see you in a few days.


    "Your Majesty, is it really alright to just leave a message to your future wife? Are you not going to say it in person?" Grimore asked, rushing behind me to match my pace.


    We left the castle and headed to the forest behind the kingdom walls. We ended up in an open field and I made sure that no one was around. I whistled and moments later, my red scaled pet landed on the open space. He huffed, making the trees shake off a few leaves.


    "I rather she don''t see me. It''s better that way. Besides..." I turn to look up at Calagon, "I''m not sure how she''ll react when she sees him."


    With that said, I mounted my dragon and caressed his shiny scales. I felt him purr. Grimore mounted his own dragon and we flew back to Lazarith without looking back.


    We''ll see each other again, princess.


    **********


    It was a short journey since dragons are quicker than stuffy carriages and moments later, we were already in the dragon''s nest which I decided to build a few years back. It is not a nest per se, but it''s almost as big as a castle and its design is not as intricate. Its exterior is just simple concrete and the ceilings are high enough for dragons to fly about. There are two separate buildings. One is where new dragons are brought to, kind of like a safe space for them to adjust to the new environment and for them to realize that they are safe. The other is for our female dragons when they give birth and care for their hatchling. They are usually separated from their mates for a few days to help them recover before they are being allowed back to the main hall.


    "Your Majesty." Leonis, the captain of my knights, greeted our arrival. He bowed his head and looked at me with his usual stoic expression. His single emerald orb is devoid of emotions as usual.


    I wonder how his wife deals with this guy.


    "Leonis. I suppose everything was peaceful while I was gone." I said, taking off my armor and cape. Grimore took my things and I ushered him to go do his other duties.


    "There were a few wild wolves lurking around, but it was not a big deal." Leonis replied, following behind me as I walked towards the entrance of the dragon''s nest.


    Walking inside, I felt Calagon following behind us. I shut the huge steel doors behind us and watched the dragons play, eat, and sleep. Most of those dragons are not for hunting. Several of them, however, are trained for battle and are used to hunting. This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    "There are no new dragons today, Your Majesty. So far, we haven''t seen any dragons in danger near our kingdom." Leonis stated as he threw a leg of a wild wolf to two baby dragons who were running around him.


    "That''s a relief. I''d hate not to be there to save another dragon in need. If you know what I mean." I smirked and looked back at my trusted knight.


    "Please don''t look at me like that, Your Majesty. The aftermath is hard to clean up as it is." Leonis sighed and a rare hint of frustration was evident in his eyes.


    I scoffed, "By the way, prepare in two days. I have to go to Ynkerthia Kingdom. Prepare some gems, jewels, whatever it is that you bring as a wedding gift."


    "A wedding... gift? What for, Your Majesty?"


    I looked at Leonis and said casually, "I''m getting married."


    Leonis looked at me in disbelief. There was a long pause and for the first time in years, I heard him yell, "WHAT!?"


    **********


    I am currently seated in my office as Grimore and Leonis quarrel. I rubbed my temple and sighed. I was dragged here against my will because Leonis wanted a good explanation on my irrational decisions.


    "You didn''t bother telling me that His Majesty is about to get married! To a girl he only met a couple of times, no less!" Leonis yelled.


    "I didn''t have the time to tell you! It was all so sudden!" Grimore hid behind the chair as Leonis stopped himself from strangling the smaller man.


    "Your Majesty! Please explain it to me further!" Leonis slammed his hands on my desk and I looked up at him.


    "There''s nothing else for me to explain. I just happen to like the princess and decided to marry her." I lied, but I know my men. They won''t fall for this pathetic excuse.


    "Yeah and I wanted to be the captain of your knights because I''m your brother." Leonis sarcastically replied.


    This bastard.


    "I wanted to marry her because she looked hot and adorable." I lied again. Maybe this time he''ll believe me.


    Leonis scoffed and said, "I''m pretty sure that petty reason isn''t why you wanted to get married in just a short time. Let me remind you that you were the one who told us that you will never get married. Even in other lifetimes."


    He saw right through me. Leonis crossed his arms over his chest and said firmly, "The truth, Your Majesty."


    I sighed and pushed my hair back, "Fine. I wanted to marry her because Ferhann wanted her and I was not going to let that piece of shit taint the innocent woman."


    "So you pitied her, Your Majesty?" Grimore asked, standing at a good distance from Leonis.


    "I already feel bad for the poor girl and you''re not yet married." Leonis chimed. I growled at him and huffed.


    "So what? I always pitied people and dragons alike." I reasoned.


    Both men looked at me in disappointment and I glared at them. Just as I was about to reprimand them, there was a knock on the door. It was a knight.


    "Your Majesty. A letter from Ynkerthia Kingdom."


    I raised a brow and took the letter. I ushered the knight to leave and read the letter. It was actually from the princess.


    "What does it say, Your Majesty?" Grimore tried to take a peak, but I didn''t let him.


    The letter said:


    To His Majesty, King Typhone Fervocour,


    I do not appreciate that you left without telling me in person, but I admire your courtesy to tell me that you''re leaving a day earlier. I have made peace with my mind that I will be married to you. I have a written proposal regarding our terms and conditions as well. Let me remind you though, in two days, I expect you to be on your best behavior here in my domain. I do not really tolerate brutes wanting to own my kingdom and intimidating my people. That is all.


    P.S. I admire your handwriting. It looked like a mouse scribbled on it.


    I smirked and huffed, "I''m getting a little impatient, Grimore. Prepare the gifts and some carriages. We''ll go to Ynkerthia tomorrow."


    "What?!" Grimore and Leonis exclaimed in unison.


    "Your Majesty, have you gone insane?" Grimore asked, panic settling in his eyes.


    "I want to see my future wife already and I''m itching to get that wedding done." I folded the letter and hid it in my desk drawer.


    Grimore and Leonis looked at each other before looking at me like I''m an insane person.


    I could smell roses and violets on that letter. Must be the princess'' perfume. Cheeky woman is trying to tempt me. Fuck. I''m aching to see you, princess.

 Chapter Seven

    AVERY


    It''s only been a day since we came back from Hollingrew Kingdom and I already felt a headache coming. King Ferhann congratulated my parents in advance regarding the wedding between King Typhone and I before we left.


    The day we got back to our kingdom, I wrote to my future husband to be the moment I got to my room.


    It was late in the afternoon and the sun was filling my room so nicely. I walked to my personal bookshelf and got a book. I sat on the plush pink couch in my room and began reading.


    "Would you like some tea and biscuits, Your Highness?" Meylin asked. I looked up at Meylin who was holding a tray of biscuits and tea. I smiled.


    "Thank you. I was just about to read, but I just can''t ignore a delicious snack." I placed my handmade bookmark between the pages of my book and set it on the small round table in front of me.


    I noticed a black envelope on the tray as Meylin poured me a cup of tea.


    "Who''s the letter for?" I asked, taking a cookie and biting on it.


    "Oh. This letter is for you, Your Highness. It''s from King Typhone." She placed the cup on the table and handed me the black envelope.


    How did he get this letter delivered so quickly? A messenger bird, perhaps?


    I was careful in opening it since I liked the envelope and wanted to keep it. It had patterns all over and the seal was a rose. The letter was written in a thin parchment that had a subtle design. Compared to his last letter, this one has more effort.


    The letter said:


    Dearest Princess Avery,


    I am delighted that you wrote back to me in such a short amount of time. I am pleased and honored to inform you that I will do no such thing as to intimidate your people. Rest assured that I will be on my best behavior whilst being in your territory. However, I could not wait any longer and decided to meet with you tomorrow regarding our wedding. I am now gathering my men and preparing for our departure. I hope your welcome in my arrival is as warm as your eyes when we first met. I shall see you soon, princess.


    Sincerely,


    Your future husband


    I gasped aloud and my cookie fell on the carpeted floor. I stood up and looked at Meylin, panicked.


    "Avery? What''s wrong?" She asked. The look of shock and panic was written all over her face.


    "King Typhone is arriving earlier than I expected. We must hurry. Set the rooms and prepare the castle for their arrival. I want every room spotless and as for the King''s room... make his sheets pink, please?" I told Meylin and she blinked at me as if I was crazy.


    "Pink? Your Highness, why would you want that? Also, only you have pink sheets."


    "Just so he remembers that he is in my territory and I can do whatever I want to give him a... warm welcome." I smiled innocently. The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.


    Meylin finally agreed and went to inform the other servants and her mom, the head maid. I stared at the letter and smiled, cheeks tinting red.


    You may be the most annoying yet also the hottest man I know. I can''t wait for your arrival... my dearest King.


    **********


    The next morning, I was awoken to the loud voices outside my room. My doors burst open and Meylin rushed to my side and pulled my blanket off me. I shivered.


    "What''s got you in a rush, Meylin?" I whimpered, rubbing the sleep off my eyes.


    "No time, Avery. We have to get you ready immediately. Your future husband is already here and he''s talking with your parents." Meylin pulled me out of my bed and dragged me to the bathroom.


    She bathed me and lathered my skin with the liquid rose soap, which I only used once during my coronation. My hair was also soaked with the rose oil and was washed thoroughly. Meylin picked a simple yet elegant pink dress that exposes my shoulders and the top of my breasts. Then, she applied a light pink shade on my eyelids and a rosy pink color on my lips.


    I blinked as I stared at myself in the mirror, "Am I... No. Meylin... what have you done to me?"


    "To impress your future husband, you must look delectable and sweet and beautiful." It was her proud reply and I was about to tell her that I didn''t need to look pretty, but she dragged me down the halls.


    We stopped in front of the rose garden and there I saw a man sticking out like a sore thumb sitting around the bed of roses. He did not look like the king I was talking to a few days ago.


    His hair was slicked back, a few strands falling out of place. He was wearing a black coat that matches his pants. His coat was adorned with gold ornaments and a single rose pin. He looked uncomfortable in his attire, and I wanted to laugh, but he looked too attractive.


    Too seductive for my liking.


    "Princess? Hello? Go ahead and join them already!"


    I snapped out of my trance when Meylin waved her hand in front of my face and her loud voice echoed in my ear.


    I cleared my throat and stood up straight, "Yes. Y-You''re right."


    I walked in the stoned path and noticed them turning to look at me. My eyes met King Typhone''s and I melted under his heated gaze. I bowed when I was mere inches away from them.


    "Welcome to Ynkerthia, Your Majesty." I said, my voice soft.


    "Thank you, princess. Everyone was so... welcoming when we arrived." He got up from his seat and bowed to me.


    Then, he pulled my chair out for me and as I sat down, he pushed it. He then sat beside me. I can see his right hand man standing beside him and he bowed his head at me.


    "So... now that the princess is here, shall we discuss wedding preparations?" King Typhone said, taking a sip of his tea.


    The teacup looks so small in his hands.


    "Yes. So... where did you want the wedding to be held, Your Majesty?" My mother asked, smiling.


    "I would like to do it here in your kingdom. I was thinking about doing it in mine, but I wanted my bride to feel more comfortable." He looked at me and immediately, my cheeks flushed.


    I took a sip of my tea and said, "That''s very considerate of you, Your Majesty."


    He smirked and looked at my parents.


    "I want a grand wedding. Huge bouquets of my bride''s favorite flowers, a flower arch at the end and the beginning of the aisle, and of course, I want my bride''s dress to be exquisite. Her choice, of course."


    "Is there... anything in particular that you, Your Majesty, would want to add? Like maybe... a line of guards or the position of the knights?" My father asked, clearly wanting King Typhone''s input on the grand wedding scheme he so wanted.


    "The knights will be up to me, but everything else will be up to my future wife. I want everything to look as grand as can be."


    My mouth hung open and I placed my cup down. I looked at him, smiling politely, "If I may, Your Majesty, but... we do not have the riches to hold that kind of wedding so--"


    "Who said that you''ll be paying for them?"


    "Wh-What?"


    "I think I haven''t made myself clear." He leaned in close to my face, his voice low and deep, "I will pay for everything in this wedding and you, my dear princess, shall only pick whatever theme you want, what color your dresses should be, and what I will be wearing. Is that clear enough?"


    I swallowed thickly and I can feel my brain melting. My face was red, I can tell and all I mustered to say was:


    "Yes, Your Majesty."


    "That''s a good girl." He whispered in my ear before turning back to the King and Queen.


    I was stunned, my face was redder than it was before and I couldn''t speak for a while. I stared at my stale cup of tea.


    What have I gotten myself into?

 Chapter Eight

    AVERY


    After that meeting, I was asked to tour the King around the palace. I was hesitant, but as a good hostess, I should be able something as simple as touring.


    "Over there is the palace gazebo where I usually spend my free time." I pointed out to my special hiding place.


    Wait. Why did I even tell him that?


    "So it''s like... your hiding place?" King Typhone asked, a hint of playfulness in his voice.


    I huffed and started walking again, "You''re assuming things, Your Majesty."


    "Oh? Am I?" He caught up to me almost immediately, his larger frame towered over mine as we walked side by side.


    I felt his hand brush against mine and I blushed. It was larger than mine and I hummed. I decided to change the topic and talked about politics, which I realized that he wasn''t interested in.


    We kept walking and ended up in the library. The doors were heavy and I barely managed to push them open. I heard a huff behind me and I turned to him, glaring.


    "Are you laughing at me, Your Majesty?" I asked.


    "No. Not at all, princess." He said, smirking. Then, he walked towards me, trapping me between him and the door. I looked up at him and his eyes were glowing.


    I let out a soft yelp when his hand slammed against the wooden door behind me. I felt him pushing the door open. I gasped, feeling my body being dragged away with the door.


    I closed my eyes and braced myself for the impact, but I didn''t. I slowly opened my eyes and blinked once. Twice. I realized that his other hand was gently placed on the small of my back. I blushed furiously.


    I felt his lips brush against my ear when he whispered, "You shouldn''t lean on the door like that, princess."


    We stayed in that position for what felt like hours, but I quickly regained my composure and pushed him away. Barely.


    "I could open the door myself, you know?" I said, cheeks tinting a bright shade of red.


    Once the doors were opened, I walked inside and maintained a good distance from the king. The curtains were wide open and I haven''t seen the library look so bright and clean.


    "I suppose this is another of your safe places, hm?" He commented, walking towards a table.


    "Why do you say that?"


    "You''re not exactly good at hiding things, princess. I mean..." He then held up a set of pink papers. He was smirking.


    I blushed again and stormed over to him. I gathered the papers and kept them in the drawer. I prayed internally that he did not manage to read what was written in those papers.


    Why did I even leave those papers in the open? Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.


    "This place is my solace. My peace. I love reading that''s why I have things scattered around here. My apologies for the mess." I said as I watched him walk towards the shelves. He hummed and ran his fingers through the spine of the books.


    "I''m not a reader or a scholar, but I do enjoy a book or two." He chimed, "You see, princess, I don''t have the patience nor the time to read."


    I decided to tease him a little, walking towards him just a little, but still keeping my distance.


    "Oh. It''s quite alright, Your Majesty. I understand that not all people can... read diligently." I smiled innocently, teasing and smug.


    King Typhone let out a chuckle. Then, he smiled at me, taunting, intimidating.


    Seductive.


    "Here''s the thing though, princess. I may not read diligently." He was now walking towards me. His steps were slow yet heavy. I felt my heart racing against my chest.


    "I may not read all the time like you, but I..." He paused, "I read fast."


    My eyes widened and my smug smile disappeared. He was now standing in front of me, towering over me again. I could smell him and my mind was blank. Dark, musky, and fresh.


    I swallowed thickly and tried to get my voice back. I was soft, whispered, "How fast can you read a book, Your Majesty?"


    "Very fast." He whispered low and deep, "I remembered a few lines earlier. Do you want me to recite them?"


    No. He couldn''t. He--


    "If I remember correctly, the lines were ''His lips traveled down my neck, tasting me as my small hands wrap around his thick neck. I moaned when his lips--''" He recited the lines perfectly, but I did not let him finish. I covered his mouth and glared at him, cheeks red until, the tip of my ears.


    "Just... don''t tell anyone about it." I said, embarrassed that the King of Beasts read my writings. I slowly removed my hand to let him breath.


    "Tell them what, princess? How you also wrote the line ''He pushes into me hard and his aching length pulses inside me, driving me wild. Our shared bed creaks under--''" He said, smug and confident.


    He was teasing me at this point. I had to cover his mouth again and that''s when I realized something. His cheeks had a few stubles, his lips were slightly dry yet it felt soft under the palm of my hand and I had to remind myself then and there that I cannot kiss him. Not until I married him, that is.


    He laughed. It was deep yet it felt so genuine. I looked at him as he wrapped his arms around my waist.


    "You are adorable when you blush like that, princess." He commented and I was sure I was about to melt at the very spot where I was standing.


    His touch was warm and comforting. I was surprised by how nostalgic it felt. I suddenly remembered when he held me on the balcony.


    "Do you say that to all the women you meet, Your Majesty?" I asked, curious, suspicious, and maybe... just a little jealous.


    "Why are are you asking?"


    "I''m curious."


    "No. You''re not. You''re jealous."


    "You''re assuming things."


    He chuckled again and leaned in closer, our nose brushing and our lips barely grazing. I felt my heart beating louder than it was before.


    I hope he doesn''t hear the loud pounding in my chest.


    "Am I?" His voice was low and hushed.


    I closed my eyes, expecting his lips to touch mine. He was slowly inching closer. His breath on my lips was warm and I felt a shiver down my spine. He was holding me in place and it was a good thing because my legs are feeling wobbly.


    Thump.


    Thump.


    Thump.


    "Your Majesty. Our knights have--" The doors were slammed open and a loud voice echoed in the library.


    We were frozen in place for a brief second before King Typhone held me up straight and he turned to face the intruder-- rather, his right hand man. His back covered my whole figure and I had enough time to straighten my dress and calm myself.


    "I''ll just meet you outside, Your Majesty." I did not understand why his right hand man said that almost as if he wanted to leave immediately, but based on King Typhone''s stiff shoulders, I''m guessing he made the king mad.


    Once the man was out of the room, King Typhone faced me and sighed softly, "Forgive Grimore for his inconsiderate behavior. I shall see to it that he is reprimanded."


    His voice was firm and there was no hint of the playfulness it held earlier. I nodded, not confident in my voice.


    "I shall see you for lunch, princess." With that said, he took my hand and placed a chaste kiss on my knuckles.


    He left without another word and I was standing in the middle of the room room thinking ''what could have'' and ''what would have''.


    I feel like I''m slowly falling for his trap and I don''t like it one bit.

 Chapter Nine

    TYPHONE


    Ever since Grimore and I walked to the knights'' quarters, he doesn''t stop apologizing. I told him to stop, but he just wouldn''t. I was so close to wrapping his scarf around his mouth to shut him up.


    "Your Majesty, I just... I didn''t know that you and the princess would be in such close proximity and the guards told me where you were and I was careless and--"


    I''ve had it. I might go crazy if I don''t shut him up.


    "Grimore." I turned around and slapped a hand on his mouth. I was holding his face with one hand and he just kept mumbling.


    "Stop. Just... stop that rambling. I told you. It''s fine." I said the last words with gritted teeth.


    I remembered how her small figure was pressed against mine. She smelled like roses and peaches. It was intoxicating how our lips are mere inches apart, how I was so close to tasting those tempting pink lips all morning.


    If I could just bring back time, lock the door, and--


    "Your Majesty." I snapped out of my thoughts when I heard Leonis'' voice behind me.


    I let go of Grimore and he let out a loud breath, as if he couldn''t breathe minutes ago. I mumbled a soft apology and turned to Leonis.


    "What''s the matter?" I asked, serious and firm.


    "The knights are waiting for your instructions." He simply said and raised a brow at me, curious as to why I was seconds away from killing Grimore.


    I huffed and turned on my heel, "Alright."


    I could hear footsteps behind me. Grimore and Leonis were following behind. I barged into the knights'' quarters without knocking and the noise that were so loud a few minutes before was now hushed into silence.


    I noticed that Ynkerthia knights were slimmer, more fit that my own knights who were bulking figures of muscles. Every knight in the room saluted and greeted me with respect.


    Ynkerthia will be mine so it''s only natural that their knights should obey me.


    "Listen up. Starting tomorrow, I expect half of the knights to guard the princess during her errands. I will not tolerate anything if the princess has a single hair out of place. Understand?" I announced loudly and with authority.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    "The wedding will be held 3 days from now. I expect all of you to be on guard at all times. Enjoy the rest of your evening." I bid them and turned around.


    However, I stopped a few inches away from the door, turned my head back and said, "One more thing. Guests will be arriving on the second day of the wedding preparations. Be a gentleman and keep your eyes peeled for... rats."


    They were alerted and their auras were menacing. I smirked and finally left the room. I could still feel Grimore and Leonis following me.


    "What do you mean by that, Your Majesty?" Grimore asked.This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    "A lot of people will be attending, Grimore. Not all of them are here to wish the King and the princess a happy marriage. Some will try to ruin it." Leonis explained and Grimore replied with a long ''Ohh''.


    Let''s see who these rodents are trying to ruin my marriage.


    **********


    The next morning, I woke up to the sun hitting my eyes. I groaned and pulled up the covers. Pink.


    "Rise and shine, Your Majesty. Let''s get you ready for your breakfast with the royal family." Grimore happily chimed, pulling the covers away.


    "Fucking pink sheets didn''t make me sleep last night. I removed it, but even the fucking mattress is pink." I growled as I sat up, running a hand through my messy hair.


    "Maybe you should ask the princess about it. Who knows? One of her friends must have stayed over and the maids forgot to change them." Grimore tried to look at the bright side, but I didn''t believe it.


    I don''t think any royal family will forget to change the sheets after a visitor has left.


    "Whatever." I mumbled and got out of bed. I stood by the window, exposing my naked torso to the world. The sun felt good on my skin and I enjoyed the view. The vast forest stretched out over the horizon.


    I bet there''s an open space there where I can hide Calagon during the our wedding.


    I looked outside the window and saw Princess Avery commanding servants here and there. I watched her nose crinkle at things she disliked and how her eyes shone at things she loved. Then, she looked up and our eyes met. I smirked when I saw how her cheeks turned red, but the tip of her nose were turning redder.


    "Your Majesty?"


    "Yeah. Get my clothes. I''m going to greet my wife to be." I commanded.


    **********


    Grimore decided to dress me lightly, but still elegant and presentable. According to him, the black button up shirt and gray pants match my style really well. He also made me wore the black leather belt that had a skull decor on the buckle. He fixed my hair in a messy yet pleasing kind of way.


    "You look stunning, Your Majesty!" He complimented when I looked at myself in the mirror. I hummed in appreciation.


    "Not bad, Grimore." I nodded and walked out of the room.


    I headed to the rose garden where Princess Avery was, still commanding her servants. As I got closer, I could hear what she was saying.


    "No. No. No sunflowers on the table. Oh. Yes! I''d like the king to try the fluffy bread. It goes well with the garlic oil, but... whatever. Just serve it too."


    Her soft voice was music to my ears and I couldn''t wait to hold her any longer so I wrapped my arms around her shoulder. Surprised, she yelped and threw a punch at me. I groaned as she hit my nose.


    I could hear the servants gasping and Avery turned to look at me. She squealed in panic and crouched down on the ground with me.


    "Your Majesty! Oh my heavens! Are you alright?! I''m so sorry! I thought it was an intruder! I am so sorry!" She rambled on, trying to look at my face.


    When you''ve fought dragons and monsters all your life, this is nothing. Although, the fact that she punched me hard was a surprise and it actually stings a little.


    "I''m fine. Don''t worry. It''s not that bad." I uncovered my nose and droplets of blood trickled down on the grass.


    The fuck? I''m... bleeding?


    "Oh. No. You''re not! Come with me. Oh. Wait." Before she could drag me anywhere, she made me hold a napkin on my nose so that the bleeding wouldn''t get worse, according to her.


    She dragged me into the gazebo, her safe place. She asked her maid, Meylin, to bring her a basin of cold water.


    "I''m really sorry, Your Majesty. I didn''t know it was you and I punched you out of instinct." She whimpered as she noticed how soaked the napkin was.


    When the maid has brought the basin and left, she started to wipe my nose with the cold water. Her touch was gentle, soothing. I stared at her face. Her eyebrows were slightly knitted together and her lips were slightly agape as she placed a cold towel on my nose.


    Fuck. I want to kiss her so bad.


    "I didn''t know you could throw a punch." I said and she blushed.


    "Well... my father asked the captain of the knights to teach me a few tricks for... self defense." She replied, voice soft.


    "Self defense? For what?"


    "I... get out of the palace walls once in a while to... uhm... interact with our people." She admitted.


    "You''re too kind, princess."


    "It''s not bad once in a while. It... lets me be normal."


    "I understand that feeling."


    She gently placed the towel back onto the basin and asked, "Do you interact with your people, Your Majesty?"


    I smirked, "Hmm. Why don''t you go and find out once you became my wife."


    She blushed and started squirming. She got up from her seat and excused herself, saying that breakfast isn''t ready. I chuckled and watched her leave.


    I can''t wait for the day that I can finally call you mine, princess.

 Chapter Ten

    TYPHONE


    During breakfast, my eyes kept landing on Avery. Her cheeks were still flushed yet her eyebrows were knitted together slightly. Amused by her annoyed reaction, I decided to tease her a little bit more.


    "King Aurelius. A word, if I may." I was slicing through the fluffy bread which was actually good, by the way.


    "Yes, Your Majesty?"


    "I would just like to ask a question regarding the sheets in my bedroom." I paused, placing down my cutlery and looking at the king, "Do you... forget to ask your maids to change the sheets after a visitor spends the night at your castle?"


    The King''s eyes widen and the Queen''s mouth hung open. I noticed Avery stopped eating and cleared her throat. Her mouth opened to speak, but her father cut her off.


    "Of course not, Your Majesty. We always ask them to change the sheets immediately after the guests'' visit." The King said, surprised at my inquiry.


    I''m sorry, princess, but pink is just not my color. I have to tell on you.


    "That''s weird. When I got to my room yesterday, instead of expecting black or white sheets, I was met with... pink sheets." I innocently informed the King and Queen.


    The Queen then glared at Avery and she was jutting her bottom lip slightly. She looked away and I could feel the Queen''s rage, but she smiled at me apologetically.


    "I shall make sure that is taken care off, Your Majesty. I''ll... have a maid change them immediately. I apologize." The King said, calling over his butler and whispering onto his ear.


    I looked at Avery and she huffed softly.


    **********


    I was training with Leonis in the knights'' training grounds when the captain of Ynkerthia announced Avery''s arrival.


    Leonis and I stopped. I was breathing heavily and wiped the sweat dripping from my chin with the back of my hand. I watched as Avery sheepishly approached me, her eyes looking straight down at the floor.


    "I''m... I''m sorry about the sheets. I just... wanted to tease you a little." She mumbled softly.


    "What was that, princess? I didn''t quite catch you." I teased, smirking.


    She clenched her hands and finally looked up at me, "I said... I''m sorry, ok? About... the sheets and the mattress."


    When our eyes met, hers slowly widened as she eyed me up and down. Her cheeks turned red almost immediately, her nose turning a shiny red. She finally noticed that I was half-naked.


    My chest was still heaving from my duel with Leonis, but I enjoyed how her eyes took in what was in front of her. I smirked.


    "All is forgiven, princess. Don''t worry." I paused and stepped closer to her, but she took a step back, "By the way..."


    I leaned in when she stopped and whispered on her ear, "Do you like what you''re seeing, princess?" This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    She gasped, pushing me away. Her small warm hands flew to my chest and when she realized what she did, she took her hands away.


    "No! Of course not! How rude of you to ask that to a princess?! Also, you''re in my territory! Don''t go prancing around like that! Are you a brute!?" Her voice was loud and every knight inside started watching our interaction.


    "Oh. But, princess, I''m in the knights'' training grounds. I''m not in front of your people of anything."


    She huffed, "Still... it''s inappropriate and... I''m leaving."


    With that, she turned on her heel and stormed off. The captain of her knights, Richtan, bowed at me and followed the princess. I smirked when the doors shut close.


    "Was it really necessary to tease the princess like that?" Leonis asked.


    "She''s an adorable little princess, Leonis. It''s a shame if I don''t tease her once in a while." I turned to Leonis and clapped his shoulder.


    We continued with our duel until we were both ready to call it even. During the duel, I couldn''t stop thinking about Avery and her plump red cheeks, her small pink lips, her round lavender eyes, and just her small figure.


    She drives me so fucking crazy.


    **********


    I did not get to see Avery the rest of the day except for lunch. I had nothing to do since I asked Avery to do the planning. However, that night, we had to get our measurements for our wedding clothes.


    I just finished taking a bath, got dressed, and headed to the drawing room where the seamstress and my bride was, according to Grimore.


    I knocked once. There was no answer. I knocked louder, twice.


    "Come in!" Avery yelled.


    I opened the door and saw Avery standing on a cushioned stool. The seamstress was taking her measurements while she was in her nightgown. I hummed and took a seat on the couch.


    "Did you have to wear a nightgown to this, princess?" I asked, voice deep, low.


    "I had no choice. I was ready to go to bed when my mother told me that the seamstress arrived." She huffed.


    "I apologize for the inconvenience, Your Majesty." The seamstress bowed and I waved her off.


    "What matters is you still came despite the chilly evening." I said nonchalantly.


    The seamstress smiled and proceeded in taking Avery''s measurements. I watched in the mirror how her pink nightgown hung loose on her body and how her nipples were perking up a little against her clothes.


    It was getting chilly, after all.


    "Oh dear. I must have forgotten my notebook in my room. I''ll be right back, Your Highness. Your Majesty." The seamstress panicked and rushed out of the room.


    Now, it was just the two of us. Avery was fidgeting with her clothes as she looked at her reflection in the mirror.


    She cleared her throat, "Were you... Were you about to go to bed, Your Majesty?"


    "I was planning to, but Grimore informed me about the seamstress." I said, casual.


    "Oh. I apologize, then. She was supposed to be here after our lunch, but... she had other things to do, so..." She trailed off and I can tell how nervous she''s being.


    I got up from my seat and walked behind her. I met her widened eyes at the mirror and she immediately stiffened.


    "I don''t mind going to bed late when I get to see my..." I trailed off, lips brushing against her bare shoulder, "... beautiful bride like this."


    "Your Majesty." She whispered softly.


    "Why don''t you call me by my name, princess?" I trailed my lips from her shoulder to the crook of her neck until I reached under her ear. My lips barely touched her skin, but I could see goosebumps forming on her arms.


    I smirked and kept my eyes trained on hers in the mirror while I graze my lips barely against her exposed skin.


    "We''re going to be married soon, princess. You should be used to calling my name by now." I teased, hand tracing the goosebumps on her arm. She whined.


    "T-Typhone." She whispered softly.


    "I can''t hear it. Louder, princess." I growled on her ear, stopping myself from kissing her hard and taking her then and there.


    "T-Typhone!" She said, louder than the first one. She yelped when I nipped on the skin under her ear.


    "That''s a good girl." I whispered, placing a soft wet kiss at the side of her neck, and slowly pulled away from her. I walked to where a the tea set was placed and actually took a cup, sipping on the too sweet drink.


    I got thirsty all of a sudden and this sweet tea is not helping.


    Then, the seamstress barged back in the room and rambled an apology after another.


    "I-It'' fine. Don''t worry about it. There''s no rush." Avery said. Her voice was quivering a little and I can tell that her cheeks are burning red at this moment.


    I smirked at the thought of her blushing and kept my back to them, calming the painful ache on my lower regions. I groaned internally, smirk fading and hissing a little.


    Fuck. This is worse than I thought.

 Chapter Eleven

    AVERY


    After getting our measurements done, I wanted to just bolt right out of the door and rush to my room, but I can''t just leave. According to my mother, that is a rude gesture. However, the interaction earlier between my future husband and I was all I could think of until the end of the meeting with the seamstress.


    During the measuring session, I had a hard time watching her take his measurements. I kept glaring at her subconsciously and kept realizing what I was doing. It was a battle between my conscious mind and my instincts at that point if I should stop her or not.


    I mean, I shouldn''t be upset that she''s touching his chest, but her advances are too obvious and I was getting annoyed.


    Both the seamstress and King Typhone left the room, leaving me alone with my thoughts for a while. I grabbed my white silk robe, slipped it on and left the room.


    "Took you a while to get out."


    I yelped in surprise, hearing a voice just as I closed the door. I looked to my right and there I saw King Typhone leaning against the wall, his arms crossed over his muscular chest and eyes glowing as he looked down at me.


    "Y-Your Maje--" I stopped myself and cleared my throat, "T-Typhone. What are you... What are you still doing here?"


    He smirked, hot and seductive, "Well, my dear princess, I''m not about to let my future wife walk down these dark halls wearing just... that."


    He gazed at me from my feet up to my face. Our eyes met and I glared at him. I closed my robe and tied it around my waist.


    "You''re not really subtle with the staring, you know that?" I hissed and turned on my heel.


    I started walking ahead of him and I could feel him follow behind. It was chilly and I shivered when a gush of wind blew in our direction.


    "It''s cold tonight, isn''t it?" Typhone inquired.


    "Yes. It is. In Ynkerthia, the nights are colder even during the summer." I said, glancing up at him.


    His hands were in his pockets and his eyes were focused straight on. I looked away and sighed softly.


    "I hope you don''t mind the chill. I might be assuming, but... is Lazarith a warm kingdom?" I asked, not looking up at him.


    "My kingdom is all snow for half a year, making it hard for my people to earn a living." His tone was firm, serious, and nothing that I''ve heard before.


    "What... What do you do then?" I pressed further.


    "I sell goods to other kingdoms." He didn''t explain what goods he was talking about so I decided to ask.


    "What kind of goods?"


    He looked down at me and I looked back. Our eyes met and his next words surprised me. The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    "Monsters."


    What? What does that mean?


    My eyes slowly widened and I blinked up at him, "What... What do you mean?"


    "Have you not heard the rumors? The King of Beasts? The slayer of all monsters?" He raised a brow and I composed myself.


    "No. I... I know. I know about that, but I... I just thought they were exaggerating."


    He chuckled, "No lies in those rumors, princess. Those are all truths."


    I just hummed in response and before we knew it, I was already standing in front of my room. I faced him, looked him in the eye, and smiled softly.


    "Thank you for walking me, Typhone. I shall see you tomorrow."


    "No problem, princess. I''ll see you tomorrow." He bowed his head and didn''t smile or give me a smirk which was slightly odd. He turned to leave, but I stopped him.


    "Wait."


    He turned around and I ran to him. I got on my toes and placed my small hands on his muscular shoulders. I leaned in and placed a soft kiss on his cheek. I blushed furiously and mumbled a soft ''thank you'' before running inside my room. I shut the door behind me and leaned against the door, feeling the loud pounding of my heart.


    What the hell did I just do?! The King''s going to kill me tomorrow morning. I can feel it.


    **********


    The next day, we did not get to have the King join us for breakfast because he went back to Lazarith for an emergency. The next few days, however, were exhausting. I did not get to see the King very much before he left because I had a lot of wedding preparations to do. I was kind of disappointed not to see him for a few days, but I just brushed it off.


    Meylin helped me pick the flowers and the theme for the invitations. The guests have arrived after the invitations were sent and I was surprised that King Ferhann was invited which i found out was King Typhone''s idea.


    He just wanted to rub it off on King Ferhann''s face that he''s going to marry me.


    I sighed as I slouched on my seat in the gazebo. I could not pick up my book because of how tired I am. Meylin brought me some tea and biscuits, but I couldn''t even eat because I felt so tired.


    "Those are some treats you got there, princess. Mind sharing them with me?"


    The voice of the person surprised me. I looked up and saw King Typhone approaching me. I sat up straight as my eyes widened.


    He was wearing a plain black button up shirt, dress pants, and his hair was all messy.


    "Y-Your Majesty! You''re... You''re back." I stood up and he just chuckled.


    "Is that who I am?" He teased.


    "Oh. I''m sorry. T-Typhone." I looked down, embarrassed.


    "Let''s eat those snacks, yeah? Your wasting such efforts from your maid." He sat beside me and took a milk biscuit. I watched him as he ate the biscuit in just two bites.


    He pointed at my stack of books, "You were reading?"


    "I was... I mean, I wanted to, but I was too tired to pick one up. My brain is not working at the moment." I said, taking a sip of my still hot tea.


    I then reached out and poured a cup for Typhone. He hummed and leaned back on his seat. The topic of me kissing his cheek did not come up and I was so thankful for that because I have no excuse on what I just did.


    "I think I know why this is your favorite place now. This seat is comfy, it''s quiet and the view is amazing." He said, looking at me. I snapped out of my thoughts.


    "Yeah." I simply replied and looked around, avoiding eye contact with him.


    There was silence and I wanted to break it so I swallowed thickly.


    "So... uhm... did the emergency in your kingdom got settled?" I asked, fiddling with my fingers.


    There was a long pause before he spoke, "Yeah. For now at least. My men can handle it over there so... yeah."


    There was hesitation with some of his words, but I didn''t press any further. I nodded and decided to just keep quiet.


    "About the wedding preparations..." He began, "I''m sorry if I dumped it all on you. To be honest, I don''t know what to do so I asked you to handle it."


    I blinked, "Well... it''s kind of hard, but with Meylin, it''s a bit easier."


    "That''s good." He whispered softly, but loud enough for me to hear.


    A few moments later, his right hand man, Grimore, walked towards us and he bowed to me before whispering something to Typhone. He sighed and nodded.


    Grimore left and Typhone looked at me, apologetic.


    "Something came up and now I have to leave my beautiful bride again." He groaned and stood up. He took my hand and placed a soft kiss on my knuckles.


    "I''ll see you later, princess." He bid before leaving.


    I caressed the place where he kissed my hand and blushed.


    How can he be so gentle despite his rough exterior?

 Chapter Twelve

    AVERY


    Finally, it was the day of the wedding. Everyone was running around and getting everything ready. Since the sun rose, I was already up and about. My maids washed me properly, fixed my hair, and did my makeup.


    The ceremony will begin before lunch time and I was a few hours away from getting married. I stared at my reflection on the mirror and almost did not recognize myself.


    I was wearing a light shade of pink on my eyes, a rosy pink blush on my cheeks and soft pink on my lips. My hair was tied in a messy bun decorated with small flowers and pearls. My dress was long. My shoulders were exposed and the top part of the dress was shaped like a heart.


    "You look so beautiful as a bride, Avery." Meylin said from behind me. I smiled and looked at her from the mirror.


    "Do you really think so?" I giggled, eyes glistening with unshed tears.


    She nodded and sniffled. She was wearing a simple pink dress because I told her that I wanted her to attend my wedding as a friend, not a maid.


    "Her Majesty did not want to come in here because she said she might just burst into tears." Meylin said and laughed.


    I laughed as well and sighed, "Mother can be so dramatic sometimes. I completely understand."


    We stayed in the room for a few moments, waiting for someone to call us. We talked about our childhood and how we always got scolded by our mothers, erasing the anxious feeling of the wedding. A couple more moments passed and Captain Richtan called us.


    "It''s time, Your Highness." Meylin sighed and smiled. We both got up and she fixed my veil.


    As I walked towards the venue, my heart pounded loudly against my chest. My mind was blank, but there was only one thing that came into my mind.


    I wonder what Typhone looks like in his suit.


    **********


    It felt like a long walk to the altar and I was getting anxious as I held the bouquet of pink roses. Once we stopped in front of the large oak doors, I took a deep breath and waited for the guards to open them. A few moments later, the doors opened and I felt all the guests turn their eyes on me.


    I kept my head bowed, but I decided to take a peek. Everyone was really looking at me, however, there was a big problem.


    He''s not standing at the end of the aisle. He... He''s not there.


    We waited for a couple of minutes and I stood there looking like a fool waiting for a groom that went missing. They were all waiting. Minute after minute passed and Typhone still has not arrived.


    "The runaway groom, huh?" I mumbled under my breath, the side of my eyes stinging as tears threatened to fall.


    Just as I was about to curse the King of Beasts in my head, a loud boom and roar came from behind me. I immediately turned and there, I saw a beautiful shiny red dragon mounted by none other than King Typhone. Everyone was panicking, but the knights calmed them down and I watched as the king unmount his dragon, caressing his scales. All of the knights approached him, made a path for him and stood straight as a sign of respect.This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    The dragon left and King Typhone was slowly approaching me. His white suit and pants complimented his tanned skin so beautifully. There was a gold chain attached from his coat to his shirt. There was also the familiar rose brooch that was attached beside the cold chain. His hair was slicked back in a messy way.


    I swallowed thickly and looked up just as he stopped in front of me. He took my gloved hand and kissed my knuckles.


    "I''m sorry for being late, princess. I hope I didn''t upset you." He whispered softly.


    I huffed, trying to really sound upset, "No, but it made me mad."


    He chuckled and placed my hand to wrap around his muscular arm. We looked ahead and watched the guests stare at us. We then walked down the aisle side by side and I felt my cheeks heat up from our brief talk earlier.


    The ceremony began and that''s when I realized something.


    Oh. I''m... I''m getting married.


    **********


    After the ceremony, the banquet was held in our huge ballroom which was only used a few times a year for important banquets like birthdays and victory celebrations.


    I stood by my husband''s side the whole time and talked to the guests. I was starting to get tired, and was surprised that Typhone noticed it.


    "Shall we take a seat, princess?" He asked, wrapping his arm gently around my shoulders.


    "Oh. Uhm... no. I''m alright. Don''t worry." I smiled a little, but he was not taking no for an answer so he gently led me to a couch.


    He sat beside me, "Do you want me to massage your feet, princess?"


    He was teasing and I playfully slapped his arm.


    "I do not need that and also, why are you still calling me ''princess''? Were already married so that makes me..." I paused because I could not believe that I was about to say that word.


    "Yes. You are my Queen now, but... I enjoy calling you princess. It''s become a habit." He chuckled and I huffed, blushing slightly at his words.


    "Congratulations on your wedding, Your Majesties." A voice said.


    I looked up to see King Ferhann with his signature red suit and a woman dressed in a fitted dark blue gown that was really sparkling. She had beautiful silky black hair and thick red lips.


    "Ferhann. I see you''ve brought along... Lady Emillya." Typhone said. He sounded disgusted and I looked up at him.


    He looked down at me and wrapped an arm around my shoulders as he introduced me to the woman.


    "Have you met my wife, Queen Avery Orianna? My dear, meet Lady Emilya Prothens of Traciana Empire." He introduced with such confidence. I was about to stand to greet the woman, but he held me back in my seat.


    Lady Emillya looked embarrassed and bowed to both of us, "It is a pleasure to meet you, Your Highness."


    Did she... intentionally really say that?


    "That''s ''Your Majesty'' to you, Lady Emillya." Typhone growled in a firm tone.


    "I apologize, Your Majesty. Where are my manners?" She giggled and bowed to me again.


    King Ferhann chuckled and said, "Come now, Fervocour. Why are you embarrassing your previous fianc¨¦ like that?"


    Fianc¨¦? This woman became his... fianc¨¦?


    "That was the past, Ferhann. That woman was better off in the streets rather than on my bed." Typhone glared at the couple before us and both of them stiffened at his words.


    A lot of people heard Typhone''s words and started whispering amongst themselves. King Ferhann and Lady Emillya bowed and congratulated us once more before leaving.


    Typhone sighed and looked at me. I tilted my head to the side as if asking him what happened earlier.


    "Emillya was offered to be my fianc¨¦ by his father who was a Duke of Traciana. I accepted because the Empire is known for being a really great donor to the needy." He explained while rubbing circles on my shoulder.


    "Then? What got you to call it off?" I asked, scooting a bit closer to him.


    "The king and queen of Traciana is very kind, firm, and their political people are held on a tight leash. However, Duke Prothens offered her to me to get a higher position which we didn''t know at first. Emillya was clingy, but when I''m leaving for a mission, she''d often have men in her room." He looked at me and my eyes were wide open.


    "Then, you broke it off?"


    "Yes. Because I did not like that she was bringing different men into her room while drowning in the riches I gave her. We found out about her father''s intention and the King of Traciana lowered his title to Baron." Typhone chuckled.


    "I think he kind of... deserved that." I commented and he hummed.


    He rested his head on my shoulder and mumbled a soft ''Yeah''.


    I don''t think that''s all there is to it, though.

 Chapter Thirteen

    TYPHONE


    According to Avery, the wedding should be consummated after the ceremony and such, but I did not agree and took her to her room the night after the banquet.


    She looked at me with those innocent lavender eyes and I could not resist her, but I held back. I could not hurt her. Not her.


    That night, I asked Grimore to bring me a woman who has the same body type as Avery. After a while, Grimore brought me a woman with thick black curly hair and black eyes, contrast to Avery''s shining lavender ones, but they had the same physique. Almost.


    Without any other words, I grabbed the woman''s arms and ripped off her satin dress which pleased her. I growled and ravished her, kissing her neck, shoulders and chest with so much hunger. I unzipped my trousers, not bothering to take off the rest of my clothes. I was not gentle when I pushed in my aching length inside her. I was merciless when I thrusted in and out of her.


    Her wails and erotic moans were not pleasing and I had a hard time bringing myself pleasure. I had to control myself not to cover her mouth or stuff her scarf into her mouth just to keep her quiet. It was not a few minutes later, she came, and I haven''t. I growled and pulled out of her, annoyed. I gave her a couple minutes to breath.


    "Get out and don''t you dare look back." I coldly said to the woman and she obeyed, rushing out of my room with just a blanket while carrying her clothes.


    I took off the sheets and laid on the couch instead. I stripped off my clothes, closed my eyes and stroked my still hard length. I imagined Avery beneath me. Her eyes glassy with unshed tears, lips hung open slightly as her moans echoed in my ear, and her soft breasts bounce slightly as I thrust into her.


    I licked my lips as I stroke myself harder, faster. Not even a minute passed, I was already spilling myself onto my chest and my stomach. It was lot. I was surprised at how fast I came and how much came out.


    I hissed when I stroked the head with my thumb. It was sensitive and I scoffed.


    Just the image of her getting ruined by me made me mess up like this.


    I did not bother cleaning up nor getting dressed. I just laid there, bathing under the moonlight, dreaming of the time when I can ravish my princess until I fell asleep.


    **********


    The next morning, I heard a knock on my door follwed by Grimore stating his presence. I groaned, a sign that he can come in.


    When the doors opened and closed, I opened my eyes slowly and saw a horrified Grimore.


    "Your Majesty. What is this mess? It''s so... so... disgusting. And..." He picked up my shirt and pants, throwing it onto a basket.


    "These sheets. I''m guessing you wanted them changed?" He asked, picking up the sheets with just his thumb and his forefinger, disgusted. His nose scrunched as if smelling the scent of a passionate love making.


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    "Yes. I hate the scent of that woman. It was too strong. Her perfume was nauseating." I hissed, sitting up, unashamed of my naked figure before my right hand man.


    He sighed, "You did not even put on some pants. What if the Queen was the one who entered here?! She would be in shock!"


    "Calm down, Grimore. She won''t just barge in and--"


    "Typhone. I came to tell you breakfast is ready and I--"


    Fuck.


    Avery screamed at the top of her lungs and before she could leave, I rushed to her side, naked and proud, grabbed her arm and pinned her on the couch. I covered her mouth and ushered Grimore to leave.


    The doors shut and I looked down at my captive. Her eyebrows are knitted together and her cheeks were turning a bright red.


    "Promise me you won''t scream and I''ll let you go." I whispered, voice husky from sleep.


    She nodded and I slowly took off my hand. I got up and got dressed, cleaning myself up in the process. I glanced at her and she didn''t sit up until I told her that I was dressed.


    "Do you seriously just sleep like that? Naked? I mean... completely naked?" She asked in disbelief. I chuckled.


    "It was quite hot last night princess." I reasoned.


    "Also, where are your sheets? Did you ask Grimore to change them again?" She asked again.


    "I was hoping for some cooler sheets. The ones your father asked to use were getting too hot." I lied again.


    She just sighed, but her cheeks were not turning to their normal color. They were still red and her nose was still red.


    How cute.


    "Just... next time, please put some clothes on before the sun shines or something. I do not want that to happen again." She raised her hands in defeat and I walked in front of her, smirking.


    "It won''t happen again if you would just knock first, princess." I leaned in and she moved back, getting trapped between me and the back rest of the couch,


    Her eyes slowly widened and I could see her swallow thickly. I stared into her lavender eyes and slowly looked down onto her pink lips. I leaned in slowly, nose brushing against hers and I could see her closing her eyes.


    I want you, my princess. All mine. Mine.


    I was gripping the back of the couch tightly as I inched slower, not wanting to startle her.


    Just a bit more. I want to taste you. I want to--


    "Your Majesty. The king and queen are waiting for you and the princess to--"


    Once again, Grimore ruined the mood. Avery''s eyes opened and she gasped. She pushed me away and stood up.


    "Oh. I''ll go see if everything is really set and ready. I''ll... I''ll see you at the garden." She said to me and left hurriedly.


    Grimore was stiff as a rock as I glared at him. I grabbed him by the collar.


    "Do you enjoy making me suffer, Grimore? Embarrassing me in front of my wife?" I growled.


    "No. Of course not, Your Majesty! I just thought you two were done talking and all that. I... I''m sorry!" He rambled. I sighed and let him go.


    I fixed my clothes and my hair, glaring at Grimore again.


    "That''s the second time you''ve ruined a moment between me and my wife." I said and he just kept rambling his apologies.


    I sighed and let Grimore clean up my room whilst I join my wife and her parents for breakfast. I walked the same path I used to walk on for the past few days towards the rose garden. There, I saw my wife sitting all pretty and flushed. I smiled to myself.


    "Good morning, Your Majesty. Did you sleep well last night?" The queen asked.


    "I did. Thank you for asking." I said, bowing at her and glancing at Avery.


    "How about you, dear wife? Did you sleep well?" I asked, teasing.


    Her cheeks turned red immediately and she cleared her throat, "Yes. Yes. I did. I''m glad you slept well."


    I stifled a laugh and began eating my breakfast. The mood was light and peaceful and it would probably the last time my dear wife will experience such peace because once she moves to Lazarith, everything will be different.


    "So... when are you planning to depart to Lazarith?" The king asked.


    I looked at Avery and asked, "When do you want to leave, my dear?"


    Avery looked taken aback and she poked her food a bit, thinking. Her soft pink lips pouted slightly in thought.


    "Maybe... after 2 days. If that''s alright with you, Your Majesty." She looked at me with those innocent lavender eyes.


    "Sure, princess. Whatever you like." I said and continued with my breakfast.


    2 days. I better tell Leonis to check on the kingdom tomorrow.

 Chapter Fourteen

    TYPHONE


    It''s been a few days and came the day when Avery and I have to leave for Lazarith. I watched as my knights and Ynkerthia''s knights load the carriages. I decided to send Calagon home and ride with my wife in a carriage instead.


    "Shall I load the other crates on your carriage, Your Majesty?" Leonis asked.


    I looked at the crate and hummed, "Yeah. Load that in my carriage."


    Once I saw that everything was ready and done, I walked over to Avery who was hugging her crying mother and father. I watched as her mother stroked her hair.


    "I''ll be fine, mother. I''ll also visit as often as I can. Don''t worry." Her cheerful voice was breaking a little as if she was holding in her tears.


    "I know, dear. Still... don''t let anyone there just step on you, alright?" Her mother reminded.


    I cleared my throat and they pulled away from their embrace and I felt a pang of guilt when I saw how much the King and Queen cried. I bit the inside of my cheek.


    "You don''t have to worry, Your Majesty. I''ll protect your daughter with everything I have." I said and the Queen nodded.


    "I trust you, Your Majesty." The King sniffled and we finally said our final goodbyes.


    As the carriage left the castle, I watched Avery''s longing eyes gaze upon her home and as the carriage moved further and further away from Ynkerthia, her eyes glossed over with unshed tears.


    She loves her home very much.


    She sighed softly and looked at me. I looked into her eyes and raised a brow.


    "I''m glad you accepted my request in bringing Meylin and Sir Richtan along." She said softly.


    I huffed a breath, "It''s only natural for you to want familiar faces serve you. It''s nothing I can''t fulfill."


    She nodded and looked out the window. I stared at her soft features and admired how strong her aura felt despite feeling lonely after leaving her home.


    "I want to know more about Lazarith. What''s it like there?" She looked at me and I casted my gaze away almost instantly.


    There was a moment of silence before I could gather my thoughts and began talking.


    "It''s cold. Dark. People are easy to judge, but also easy to warm up to others." I said, emotionless and nonchalant.


    "Is it pretty there? Flowers? Bright scenery?" She asked again.


    I thought hard and tried to remember what my kingdom was like. Then, I decided to tease her a little bit.


    "I''m not sure, princess. Why don''t you wait and find out?" I said, smirking.


    She jutted her bottom lip, "I just wanted to know. You''re being oddly secretive again."


    I chuckled, dark and low, "Oh? I just want to give you a bit of a thrill, princess."


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    She rolled her eyes at me, crossed her arms over her chest and looked out the window. My lips curved up a little and watched her nose scrunch every now and then.


    I was right to save you from that bastard of a king, princess. I''m sure you''ll thank me one day.


    **********


    It took us a few days to get to my kingdom because of the weather. It was snowing despite it being spring in other places. I saw Avery shiver slightly. I took off my coat and wrapped it around her. I scoffed when I noticed how my coat just swallowed her whole figure.


    "What?" She asked, narrowing her eyes at me as she wrapped the coat tightly around her little body.


    "You look adorable in my clothes." I teased and her cheeks immediately turned red. The tip of her nose was getting redder apart from the cold weather outside.


    "You really do have a way with words, you know that?" She huffed, looking away from me.


    I chuckled, "Women love it."


    "I''m not like them." She retorted and snuggled under my oversized coat.


    I did not get to reply to her because Grimore knocked on the carriage door. He opened it and I got out. Barely managed to. I hit my head on the carriage and everyone outside gasped. I hissed and I heard giggling from behind me.


    "I think you need a bigger carriage, dear husband." Avery teased.


    Why the fuck did her words make my lower regions throb with need?


    I growled and faced her, holding out a hand for her to take.


    "Very funny, princess." I said, making sure she got out the carriage safely.


    I noticed her stiffening when she looked up at the castle. Then, I looked down and saw her feet were turning white. I didn''t hesitate and lifted her, scooping her up bridal style.


    "What are you doing?! Put me down!" She yelled, hitting my chest.


    "I''m not going to let your feet freeze, princess. You might not be able to walk." I said, looking down at her flushed face. Maybe from the cold or from being flustered. I don''t know.


    "Everyone''s looking." She whispered softly, hiding her face on my chest.


    I chuckled and began walking up the stairs. Just like Avery said, every staff of mine was staring. I glared at them and they all bowed their heads.


    When we entered the castle, I said, "Welcome, dear wife, to Lazarith Kingdom."


    She slowly turned her head and she audibly gasped as she looked up and her eyes roamed the entrance hall of the castle.


    "Shall we bring Her Majesty''s things in her room?" Grimore asked from behind me.


    "Yes." I said and I heard Grimore''s footsteps fade.


    "Wait. My room? We''re not... sharing a room?" She asked, surprised. She looked up at me and I held myself back from kissing her there and then.


    "Unless you want to share a room with me, I can tell Grimore to bring your things to my room." I looked down at her, smirking playfully.


    She squealed and hit my chest, "Of course I don''t want to! I just... i was just curious because isn''t that what married people do?"


    "Not all married couples are like your parents, my dear. Not all of them are madly in love with each other." I stated firmly.


    Avery became quiet and just allowed me to carry her to her room.


    I must have said it too harshly.


    **********


    After taking my wife to her room, I went to my office to do some paperwork. The reaction on Avery''s face earlier was etched on my mind. Her eyes drooped and she looked like she was about to cry. I sighed.


    "That''s the fourth time today, Your Majesty. Is something weighing on your mind?" Grimore asked, setting down a tray of hot coffee on my desk.


    "No. I must be exhausted from the trip." I lied, but then I realized that Grimore knows when I''m lying. Before I could say anything, he already intervened.


    "Ah. Yes. Marriage is new to you, Your Majesty. I understand. I''m guessing the reason you keep sighing is because you''re worried about Her Majesty, am I right?" He smiled innocently after pouring me a cup of coffee.


    I narrowed my eyes at him, sipping on my hot drink.


    Close enough.


    "If you''re worried that Her Majesty might feel uncomfortable here, you can show her around the castle first. Introduce her to the staff and all that." Grimore suggested.


    I pondered about the thought for a bit, tapping a finger on the table and decided to agree. I got up then grabbed my coat.


    "You''re right. I should not let my wife feel like a stranger to her new home." I fixed the papers on my table and handed them to Grimore.


    "What... What is--"


    "Take over for me, Grimore. I''m going to take care of my wife today." I said, lips curving into a sly grin.


    "Your Majesty! Don''t leave me! I can''t--" Grimore yelled as I opened the doors of my office.


    "I owe you one, Grimore. I have faith in you." I smirked, saluting to him as I left.


    "Your Majesty!" I heard Grimore yell out loud and I chuckled.


    I''m not running off to escape my duties, Grimore. I have duties as a husband after all.

 Chapter Fifteen

    AVERY


    I was settled in my room as Meylin unpacked my clothes and other things. She huffed and hung my dresses in the closet. I smiled at her as I sipped on my tea.


    "That was so rude of him to say that. I mean, of course not all royal families are married to the ones they love, but still!" Meylin complained, shutting my luggages and fixing them in a corner.


    "I think I understand where he''s coming from, though. I mean... I bet... he hasn''t experienced real love." I placed my cup down and Meylin glared at me.


    "Don''t give me that nonsense, Your Majesty. He''s just much of a bastard like King Ferhann." Meylin huffed.


    I giggled, "Hush now, Meylin. Don''t speak about my husband like that."


    "Yeah. No." She stubbornly said and all of a sudden, there was a knock on my door.


    Meylin and I looked at each other and I nodded at her to open the door. When she did, Typhone entered with a bouquet of pink and red roses. My eyes widened and I blinked at him.


    "Your Majesty." I stood up and Typhone just ushered me to sit back down.


    I looked at Meylin and ushered for her to give us some privacy. I looked at Typhone and then at the bouquet of roses.


    "What brings you here?" I asked and he shoved the bouquet in my face.


    Oh. That surprised me. But... the roses smell so good and... they have white dusts on them. Snow maybe?


    "Oh. Sorry." He said and moved the bouquet a little, but I took it from him and took a sniff of the fresh flowers.


    "I was... wondering if you''d like to roam around the palace. I can introduce you to my servants and give you a tour of your... new home." His voice was hushed as he scratched the back of his neck sheepishly.


    He was looking away, his leg was bouncing nervously, and I can see beads of sweat forming on his forehead. I smirked and thought of teasing him a little.


    "Hmm... I don''t know. My husband left me here all alone and now I feel like... I''m not in the mood." I sighed softly and I could see his head turning to look at me almost immediately.


    "That''s not... I... I needed to do some paperwork." He reasoned and I stifled a giggle.


    "But I''m tired and cold and I... I''m not in the mood anymore." I looked down at the flowers sadly and then at him.


    His eyes were so wide and his lips were slightly agape.


    "So you don''t... want to tour the castle today?" He asked, hesitant. He looked like a sad puppy that was forbidden to play by his owner.


    I giggled and finally caved in, "I was only teasing you, dear husband. Of course I''d love to tour the castle."


    Typhone breathed out a sigh of relief and I smiled. I got up and walked towards a table which had an empty vase. I placed the flowers inside and arranged it a little.


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    "I''m surprised. Roses grow in cold weather, too?" I looked at him and he was already walking towards me.


    "Unfortunately, no. But here in Lazarith, I made sure that these kinds of flowers grow. Just to keep my people busy and let them enjoy planting even with the cold weather." He explained and caressed the petals of the flowers.


    He looked down at me and tucked a few strands of my hair behind my ear. My eyes widened and he cleared his throat.


    "Shall we, princess?" He offered his arm and I accepted it.


    When we walked out of my room, Typhone nodded at Meylin and Richtan before leading me through the halls.


    My heart is beating too loud.


    **********


    He introduced me to most of his servants and all I could say was they were all so nice. We walked down the halls towards the kitchen and we stopped just outside. I watched all his staff work effortlessly and my eyes widened when the head cook spoke.


    "Don''t slack off, idiots. The Queen deserves to taste all the delicacies Lazarith has to offer." He yelled and everyone began working harder.


    I heard Typhone chuckle and immediately, the head cook turned to us. He was flushed when he approached us, bowing his head in respect.


    "Your Majesties! What brings you here? Is the Queen hungry? Do you need anything, Your Majesty?" He was frantic and it made me flush how much attention he was giving us.


    How can he have such enthusiastic servants? I feel shy all of a sudden.


    I slowly hid half of my figure behind Typhone and both men chuckled at my bashful reaction.


    "I was just giving my wife a tour of the castle. I did not mean to startle you." Typhone said and the head cook laughed out loud.


    "That''s good, Your Majesty," The head cook looked at me, bowed, and added, "Your Majesty, please call me Jareth. Tell me if you have something specific you want to eat and I''ll make it for you."


    I nodded timidly and offered him a kind smile, "Thank you... Jareth."


    We bid the head cook goodbye and went on our way. I sighed a deep breath and Typhone chuckled.


    "Were you that nervous in meeting my servants?" He placed a hand on top of my head and I nodded.


    "It was nerve-wracking. Everyone looked so scary at first." I stated and I immediately covered my mouth.


    It was true, anyway. His servants looked weird. Most of them were. Some of them wore an eyepatch, some had missing limbs, and some were a lot bigger than Typhone.


    Instead of reprimanding me, Typhone chuckled and ruffled my hair softly.


    "That''s because most of them were rejects from their own homes or... they went into war and no one would accept them anymore because they''re... incomplete." He explained.


    "So... they went to Lazarith to work?" I asked.


    "No. I kind of like took them in. I gave them jobs and homes." He said, looked down at me, and gazed at me softly.


    My heart skipped a beat and I looked away from him. My cheeks flushed and I felt my ears turning red.


    No. My heart can''t be skipping a beat for this kind of man.


    **********


    Despite the biting cold, I felt warm inside a huge ballroom. It was old and it was located behind the castle. I looked around and noticed that there were vines growing on the walls. I looked up and realized that there was no ceiling.


    "Why do you still keep an abandoned ballroom?" I asked and walked to the middle of it.


    "This is where I feed my dragon." He said casually.


    "What?" I looked at him, shocked. My eyes widened and moments later, there was a strong gust of wind.


    I looked up and my eyes widened when the familiar red scaled dragon approached us. I gasped and immediately ran towards Typhone. When the dragon landed, it shook off the snow from its body and its glowing eyes looked at Typhone and I.


    "Wait. You''re not going to feed me to your pet, are you?!" I screamed at my husband.


    The dragon approached me and I stood still when he sniffed me. I yelped when his smooth and cold nose touched me. Typhone chuckled, called his dragon over, and walked towards a corner, grabbing a huge barrel. I watched as he emptied the barrel on a concrete basin and different kinds of fish came spilling out. The dragon walked over and sniffed the pile of fish before eating.


    "Wife. I want you to meet Calagon." He said, walking towards me. I looked at him then at his red scaled pet who I was sure was purring whilst chowing down on the pile of fish.


    I thought he only wanted me to meet his servants! He didn''t tell me that I needed to meet his pet dragon!

 Chapter Sixteen

    AVERY


    I watched as Typhone''s pet dragon ate loudly. The loud crunching and slurping made me swallow thickly. I looked up at my husband and he just grinned at me.


    "So it really was your pet dragon that you brought on our wedding?" I asked, narrowing my eyes at him.


    "Yeah. I didn''t let him stay in Ynkerthia, though. I did not want my dragon to be hunted." Typhone replied and looked at his dragon who was now licking its mouth clean.


    Once it was done eating, it approached us and I squeaked, hiding behind Typhone''s back. I took a peek as his dragon tilted its head to the side.


    He chuckled, "Calagon was abandoned behind my castle a long time ago. He just hatched from his egg when I found him."


    "How old were you when you found him?" I looked up at him then at the dragon.


    "I think I was... 10 at that time. My father went crazy when he found out, but I was stubborn and took him in anyway." Typhone reached out and scratched the dragon''s chin. The dragon purred and like a cat, it tilted its chin up, making Typhone scratch him even more.


    "You have such a big heart, dear husband." I commented, teasing, and moved a bit closer to the dragon.


    "Do I? I don''t think so." He glanced at me and I hesitantly moved another step closer to the dragon.


    I flinched when its eyes darts towards me and I closed my eyes, reached my hand out to try and touch the dragon, but did not move another inch closer.


    Suddenly, I felt cold hard scales touch the palm of my hand and I looked up to see the dragon pressed his nose onto my hand. My eyes widened and its golden eyes met mine. My cheeks flushed and I tentatively caressed the dragon''s scales. It purred softly.


    However, that moment of happiness was short-lived when the dragon breathed through its nose and flew away. I pouted and watched the majestic creature leave.


    "He''s not used to being touched by other people, princess." Typhone stated, chuckling, and I just huffed.


    "He''s kind of an aloof creature just like his owner." I glared at my husband and he just chuckled.


    I turned on my heel, a little upset that Typhone was mocking me for being rejected by his pet dragon.


    They''re both rude and arrogant.


    **********


    After touring the castle and meeting everyone, Typhone walked me to my room. I looked at him and bowed my head, pretending that I was still upset with him.


    "Thank you for introducing me to everyone." I said coldly.


    "It was a pleasure, princess. Please don''t be upset. I''m sure Calagon will warm up to you soon," He took my hand and kissed the back of it, "I''ll see you tonight at dinner."


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    He bid before walking away. I watched him leave before I shut the door of my room. I walked towards the table where the bouquet of roses were located. I took a sniff of the flowers and heard a knock on my door.


    "Come in." I called out.


    When the door opened, Meylin entered and behind her was a woman with short curly brown hair, emerald eyes, and was wearing a yellow dress. She''s as tall as Meylin and had a cheerful expression.


    "Good afternoon, Your Majesty. I''ll be your lady-in-waiting alongside Lady Meylin. My name is Senha. Nice to meet you, Your Majesty." She greeted excitedly and bowed to me.


    I smiled warmly, "It''s nice to meet you, Senha. I''ll be in your care from now on."


    Senha smiled widely and nodded. Then, when I sat on the couch, she served me tea while Meylin stood by and watched her.


    She looks too young to be a lady-in-waiting.


    "Senha. How long have you been working for the king?" I asked before taking a sip of my tea.


    "I''ve been a servant here since I was a child. My mom worked in the castle even before I was born." She said, smiling at me.


    So her mom even worked for the late king.


    "I want to know more about... Lady Emillya." I felt Meylin''s eyes on me and I swallowed a lump in my throat. Senha''s eyes widened and was hesitant for a moment, but she spoke soon enough.


    "Lady Emillya. Well... she stayed here for quite some time because she was supposed to be married to our king. I became her lady-in-waiting and... I was the one who told the king about her affairs." Senha said. Her cheerful face turned serious.


    "You did...?" I asked, voice soft.


    She nodded and started fidgeting with her fingers, "I couldn''t watch her bring man after man in her room and spend our king''s riches on so much luxury. I found out that those men were from her empire. The king was outraged and that''s when... the king began sleeping with other women."


    Meylin and I stayed silent while we listened to Senha. The mere mention of the king sleeping with other women made my heart sunk to my stomach. I bit my tongue and just nodded.


    "His Majesty is not heartless. He just... became the way he is because of Lady Emillya." Senha waved her hands in front of her and I smiled at her a little.


    "It''s alright, Senha. I understand." I lied.


    Was that why he didn''t want to sleep with me? Was I... lacking?


    "I could see how much His Majesty values you, Your Majesty. I''m sure... you''re put off because of that, but... let me assure you that His Majesty cares for you. Truly." Senha said, grabbed my hands and held them to her chest.


    I giggled and nodded, "Alright. Thank you, Senha."


    I don''t even know if I should believe that he truly cares for me. Maybe he''s just pretending that he does.


    **********


    During dinner, I was silent and I was sure that Typhone noticed that. I was eating slower than usual and I was poking my food as I chewed.


    "You know... Jareth will be upset if he finds out that the Queen is not enjoying his food." Typhone broke the silence.


    I snapped out of my thoughts and I gasped, "Oh. No. The food is really good, though. I really like it. It''s just... there''s some things on my mind is all."


    "What''s keeping your mind busy? If you don''t mind me asking."


    You. Everything about you.


    "I''m just thinking of what I could do here as the Queen. Like... maybe look at some ledgers or some documents. I want to help you in any way I can now that I''m the Queen." I lied. I smiled at him and he just looked at me suspiciously.


    Thankfully, he just brushed it off and continued eating. He hummed in thought.


    "Maybe you could read the history of Lazarith first? I''m sure the counselors still can''t accept the fact that I''m married and would want to bring me down," He paused and looked at me, "I''m not saying you should impress them. I just want them to know how smart my wife is and that she can drag them down when it comes to political matters."


    I blushed at his words and looked down at my food.


    "You flatter me, Your Majesty," I bit my lower lip then added, "But yes. I should learn more about Lazarith if I want to stand by your side and help you rule."


    "Nothing is off limits in the library, princess. You can read whatever you want. If you have questions, you can ask Grimorefor help." He placed a big hand on top of mine and I just smiled at him.


    I want to know more about you. I need to find out what other secrets you''re hiding, dear husband.

 Chapter Seventeen

    TYPHONE


    It was late and I just finished dinner with Avery. I was in my office, doing some paperwork when there was a knock on the door. I looked up to see Grimore walking towards me.


    "The... young lady you requested is already in the guest bedroom, Your Majesty." He said and I nodded.


    "Good. You may leave." I dismissed coldly.


    "If... you don''t mind me asking, Your Majesty, but... why don''t you want to sleep with your wife? I mean... I''m sure she''s ready and--"


    I interrupted him and said firmly, "I can''t. I can''t... hurt her, Grimore. I want her more than anything. I want her in my bed, but fuck. I can''t fucking hurt her."


    I clenched my fists and took a deep breath. I ran a hand through my messy locks and stood up. I cleared up my desk and placed my documents in my drawer before looking at Grimore.


    "When I''m ready and the time is right, I will have her in my bed and I... I won''t need anyone else." I said in a hushed tone.


    Grimore bowed and I left my office. I walked through the halls and past Avery''s room. I stopped there and pressed my ear on the door, wanting to make sure that she was already asleep.


    However, what I heard made my heart pound and my lower region throb. I swallowed thickly when I heard Avery''s soft voice. She was moaning softly, probably pleasing herself.


    "Typhone. Please..." Her voice became louder and her moans became erratic.


    I had to physically hold my hand to stop myself from touching myself there in front of her door.


    "Typhone. Typhone. I''m... I''m so close." She moaned loudly and I internally growled.


    Fuck. Yes. Cum. Let go for me, princess.


    When she moaned long and loud, I can tell that she already came. I hissed when the pain in my lower regions increased. I was aching for release and I rushed to the guest bedroom where the woman I hired was.


    "What took you so long? I was--" The woman began, but I was already too riled up to make conversation.


    I ripped off the woman''s gown and bent her over on my bed. She stayed in that position and moaned, wiggling her hips like a needy dog. I slapped her backside and she yelped.


    "Stay still, woman." I hissed coldly as I unbuckled my pants and thrusted into her. I groaned when I felt the heat of her pussy wrap around me.


    I thrusted fast and deep, eyes closed as I imagined Avery''s moans, face, and body. I remembered how she moaned my name over and over as she came on her hand and maybe, just maybe, dripped on her bed as well. My thrusts became erratic as I imagined her beneath me. I pulled the woman to my chest, grabbing a fistful of hair.


    "You''re such a little whore, aren''t you?" I growled against the woman''s ear and she just nodded while moaning loudly.


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    Fuck. I wish it were Avery. I wish it was her here in my bed. I wish it was her I was fucking, making her a mess under me. Fuck.


    A couple more thrusts and I can feel my release coming. I reached down with my free hand and rubbed the woman''s bundle of nerves. She moaned loudly and came. I pulled out of her, stroked my aching length and spilled all over her back. I let go of her, grabbed a towel, cleaned myself up, and left the room.


    Fuck, Avery. The things you do to me are insane.


    **********


    The next day, I woke up to the sunlight hitting my eyes. I laid on my bed, naked, after relieving myself a couple of times more to the thought of my wife. I slowly sat up and groaned.


    Grimore didn''t wake me up today.


    Just as I thought of that, there was a knock on my door. When it opened, Leonis revealed himself. He walked towards me and raised a brow at my disheveled figure.


    "You look like shit." He said casually. There was no courtesy between us when in private quarters. That''s what friends mean, isn''t it?


    I scoffed and ran a hand through my messy locks, "I couldn''t sleep last night."


    "Yeah. Right." He rolled his eyes and threw my robe at me.


    I caught the robe and groaned. He looked at me, void of emotions once more. I raised a brow at him.


    "Do you not remember your duties today, Your Majesty?" I asked as if testing me.


    "I do. It''s hunting day because it''s almost mating season for other monsters." I got up and wore my blue robe. I tied it around my waist and Leonis nodded.


    "Yes. There have been a few sightings for the past few days." He stated.


    "I see. We''ll deal with that later after I ha my breakfast with my wife." I said and Leonis chuckled.


    "What''s so funny?" I glared at him.


    "Oh. It''s nothing, Your Majesty. Usually, you''d be up and go hunting without having breakfast, but now..." He trailed off and smirked at me.


    "Wouldn''t you do that with your wife?" I hissed, getting annoyed with his playful taunts.


    "I already do, Your Majesty. I''m just surprised since this is the King or Beasts we''re talking about." He teased and I was about grab Leonis when there was a knock on my door.


    "Your Majesty? Are you dressed?" It was Avery.


    I stood up straight and rolled back my shoulders. I cleared my throat and made sure I looked decent. I walked to the door and opened it. There stood my beautiful wife wearing an elegant white gown, long sleeves and lacy top.


    "Good morning, my Queen. How did you sleep last night?" I asked, making way for her to enter.


    "Good. I slept really good. It was a bit chilly and it was the perfect weather to snuggle on my bed." She said, smiling and sitting on my couch.


    Leonis bowed to my wife and then to me before leaving. I hummed and sat at the edge of my bed that was facing the couch, facing my wife.


    "That''s good. I''m glad you slept well." I said, nodding.


    "Did you like my gifts?" I asked after a brief moment of silence.


    Her eyes slowly widened and her face immediately turned red, "Yes. I... I love them so much, but it''s a lot. I mean... there were so many dresses and jewelries and gems that I didn''t know where to put them."


    She fiddled with her fingers, cheeks turning a brighter shade of red. I watched as her nose turned redder. I chuckled.


    "Those are for you, princess. Just accept them. Or perhaps... do you need me to build you another room for your gifts?" I said, teasing yet proud.


    "No. Good heavens. No. I don''t need an extra room. I made sure Meylin fixed them properly, but also... I don''t know where I''ll be wearing those beautiful gowns." She huffed.


    "Wear them everyday or when you''re strolling the palace or the town. I don''t care. I want you to use them however you want." I stood up from my seat and walked towards my wife.


    She looked up with those big innocent lavender eyes and red cheeks. I reached out and caressed her soft cheek.


    "You deserve them, princess. Deal with it." I whispered softly.


    She nodded and her mouth hung open slightly as if she wanted to say something,  but she closed her mouth instead. I caressed her bottom lip with my thumb and I had to control myself from kissing her then and there. I cleared my throat and let go of her.


    "Shall we head to breakfast, then?" I asked and I could see a hint of disappointment in her eyes.


    "Yes. I''ll... I''ll wait for you in the dining hall." She said coldly and left my room.


    Fuck. She was expecting me to kiss her, but I just... can''t. Fuck.

 Chapter Eighteen

    TYPHONE


    During breakfast, Avery was quiet and when I glanced at her, she was sulking. I could tell that she was disappointed from our earlier interaction. I cleared my throat.


    "What are you planning today, princess?" I asked, slightly hesitant.


    "Nothing. I''m just going to read in the library." Her tone was cold and she did not even look at me.


    "I''ll be going out today. I just wanted to let you know." I said softly.


    "Ok. Sure." She simply said.


    I did not say anything else, but I could hear Grimore stifling his laughter from behind me. My left eye twitched in annoyance and looked behind me. I glared at him and Grimore immediately stood straight, returning to his stoic expression.


    "What are you upset about, princess?" I asked, reaching out and placing a hand on top of hers.


    She looked at my hand and then at me. Her gaze was cold and her eyes are narrowed at me.


    "Nothing. Also, I''m not upset." She dismissively said.


    No. Of course not. You''re not upset. You''re mad at me.


    I just sighed and pulled my hand away. We continued our breakfast in silence and I could not help but take small glances at my wife. Even when she was mad at me, she looked so beautiful.


    **********


    I was in our greenhouse glaring at the variety of roses laid in front of me. My eyes scanned them once more and I growled, slamming my hands on the table. The people around me flinched and I looked at Leonis who was the only one unfazed by my brash action.


    "What goes with pink? Other than red." I hissed and Leonis smirked at me, teasing.


    "Blue, Your Majesty." He stated, still smirking.


    "You''re crazy. Blue? This shade of blue?!" I shoved a dark blue rose in front of Leonis and he just chuckled.


    "Then... white, Your Majesty. It goes really well with the light pink color." He picked up the white rose and placed it beside the pink rose.


    I hummed in thought, calming down a little and nodded, "Yes. That should do it. Arrange a bouquet for me. 12 white roses and 12 pink roses. I need it fast."


    I commanded my people and they rushed to do my request. I turned on my heel with Leonis behind me. I stomped my way to the kitchen and Leonis was chuckling behind me.


    "What''s so funny, Leonis?" I asked, pissed.


    "Oh. It''s nothing, Your Majesty. I''m just surprised that you''re doing all this effort to ease Her Majesty''s anger." He said, still chuckling.


    "What''s it to you? Wouldn''t you do the same thing?" I hissed.


    "Ah. The thing is, Your Majesty, my wife never gets mad at me. I keep my wife happy and satisfied." He made sure to emphasize his last words and that annoyed me even more.


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    I know I couldn''t satisfy her yet. Not yet.


    When we reached the kitchen, I heard Jareth screaming loudly. I paused by the doorway and took a peek inside first.


    Jareth was by the oven, screaming at a servant. He pointed at the black lump that sat on the table.


    "What is this?! It''s not even edible! Why did it turn out like this?!" Jareth screamed, arms flailing around.


    "But... But... sir, you were the one who said to leave it in the oven for a few more minutes." The servant reasoned, fiddling with her fingers.


    Jareth was silent for a minute and every staff stared at him.


    "You''re right. It''s my fault. Why did I do that?!" He screamed again.


    "Don''t you worry, sir. We made extra and the cookies are ready." One servant said and Jareth immediately calmed down. He looked at the pastries and delicacies and he nodded in satisfaction.


    "Good. Good. Very good, children! Let''s wrap it up before His Majesty arrives." He ordered and I smiled.


    I cleared my throat and Jareth turned his head to Leonis and I. He gasped audibly and approached us.


    "Your Majesty, Sir Leonis. We''re just wrapping up your gift and they''re all ready." He said, smiling brightly.


    "Alright. Do me a favor and include these as well." I reached inside the pocket of my coat and gave him a package. Jareth opened it and his eyes widened.


    "Yes, Your Majesty." Jareth happily said and trotted to where his staff was wrapping the basket.


    "When did you manage to buy something that expensive when I was with you the whole time, Your Majesty?" Leonis asked and I turned to look at him.


    "I had Grimore buy it for me earlier today." I said, smirking and Leonis'' eyes widened.


    After a couple of minutes, Jareth handed me a perfectly prepared basket with a cute pink ribbon tied on the handle.


    "I''m sure Her Majesty will love it." Jareth commented and I nodded.


    I thanked Jareth and my servants before walking back to the greenhouse. I walked inside and saw a huge bouquet sitting at the table. I looked at the gardener and he proudly puffed his chest.


    "We made 15 of each, Your Majesty. 12 of each was a little small." He said and I nodded, satisfied.


    "Good. This is beautiful. I shall head to deliver these to my wife now." I said, grabbing the bouquet.


    "Wait, Your Majesty. What about our hunting duty?" Leonis asked, stopping me.


    I looked at him and scowled, "That can wait for a while. I need to give these to my wife. Now."


    **********


    Standing outside her door made me nervous. She wasn''t in the library and I was lucky enough to bump into her knight, Sir Richtan. He told me where she was and I immediately went there with Leonis tagging along behind me.


    I swallowed thickly and knocked on her door. It opened after a while and Meylin greeted me. Her eyes widened and she bowed to me before giving me way to enter.


    Avery was sitting on the couch, sipping on her tea while looking out of her window. Senha''s eyes widened when she noticed me. She bowed and gave Avery and I some privacy. I cleared my throat to grab her attention and it did.


    Avery looked up at me and her eyes widened. She set down her tea and got up.


    "Your Majesty. What is--" I cut her off, getting down on one knee.


    Fuck. The things I do for this woman. I don''t even know what came over me.


    "Here. Please accept my gifts to you. I am terribly sorry if I made you upset earlier." I handed her the bouquet and the basket and my palms were sweating.


    She gently grabbed the gifts and placed them on the table. She grabbed my hands and giggled.


    "What were you doing kneeling like that? A king shouldn''t kneel." She chuckled and I rubbed the back of my neck sheepishly.


    "Not me, though. I bow to my wife and I will kneel to kiss her feet if need be." I said proudly.


    Her eyes widened and her cheeks turned red. I grinned at her and cupped her cheeks.


    "Will you forgive me, my dear wife?" I asked, voice hushed and soft.


    She hesitated for a minute. Her eyebrows knitted together slightly and her nose scrunched. I chuckled.


    "What''s it going to be, princess? Forgive me?"


    She sighed softly, "Fine. Alright. I forgive you."


    I sighed in relief and leaned down to press a soft kiss on her reddened nose. I pulled away from her, tucking a stray strand of her behind her ear.


    "I''ll be back later, princess. For the meantime, you may do anything you want. If you need anything, call for Grimore, alright?" I said and she just nodded.


    "Good girl." I kissed the top of her head before leaving.


    Fuck. I wanted to kiss her lips, but I can''t. I might fucking lose my mind if I did.

 Chapter Nineteen

    AVERY


    I stared at the flowers and the basket full of cookies and pastries. I opened the basket and noticed that it was so full that it could feed a lot. I smiled a little, remembering how Typhone delivered these to me.


    "That must have took Jareth a lot of time preparing." Senha noted and I giggled.


    "Yeah. I hope His Majesty gives him a vacation or a reward." I said, taking a cookie and nibbling on it.


    "Shall I make you some tea, Your Majesty?" Meylin asked.


    "Yes. Bring three cups. You and Senha should join me. I cannot finish all of these, anyway." I smiled and Meylin nodded, heading out to grab some tea.


    "To be honest, Your Majesty, I didn''t know that His Majesty could do something like this." Senha said as I gave her a cookie which she gladly accepted.


    "Was it that unusual?" I asked, looking at Senha curiously.


    She nodded, nibbling on the cookie, "He usually just gifts jewels and dresses. You know... like with... Lady Emillya."


    I stayed silent, wanting to hear more about the King from Senha. I looked at the cookie and waited for Senha to continue.


    "According to His Majesty, women only accept jewelry and gems and no woman would like flowers and sweets." Senha added and I looked at her, eyebrows knitting together.


    "Why? I... I love sweets and flowers and... even love letters. I''m sure His Majesty was unlucky with women that''s why he said that." I said, making Senha laugh.


    "You''re right, Your Majesty. His Majesty is very unlucky with women," She smiled at me, "But I think that he is very lucky to have met you. You''ve... shown us a side of His Majesty that we''ve never seen before so... thank you, Your Majesty."


    Senha''s words made me blush. I smiled back at her before looking back at the flowers. The ones he gave me the other day were still fresh. I tilted my head and thought for a moment.


    "Senha. Would you bring me a bigger vase? I''d like to fix the flowers." I said and she bowed, rushing to head out of my room.


    I don''t know whats running on your mind, but... your rough exterior is slowly cracking, Your Majesty.


    **********


    It was an hour before lunch time when Grimore told me that Typhone would not be able to join me because the hunt extended and they would be back later in the afternoon. I had lunch alone so I decided to eat in my room while I read a book.


    After lunch, I asked Grimore to accompany me to the library and he did. I was in awe when we entered the library. It was so much bigger than the one we had in Ynkerthia. I smiled as I ran my fingers on the spines of the books.


    "I''m surprised the library had these many books knowing that your king doesn''t read much." I said playfully and this shocked Grimore.


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    "Well... some of them are used to teach the servants, Your Majesty. But... But His Majesty does read. Maybe... once in a blue moon?" Grimore said and I chuckled.


    "Oh? That''s going to make the books dusty, then." I said.


    Grimore sighed, "I feel bad for the maids cleaning the library, but I''m sure our books will be more useful now that you''re here, Your Majesty."


    "Yes. Yes, they will." I softly said, grabbing one, two, three, six books.


    Grimore offered to carry them for me and I allowed him to. We walked out of the library and he took me to a tea room. It was spacious and it looked like no one was using it. He set the books down on the small table in the middle of the room and I walked deeper inside. The room had a tall window that reached the ceiling and it overlooked the entrance of the castle.


    "This room used to be the former Queen''s safe space. I was asked to clean it so that you can use it, Your Majesty." Grimore stated with a smile on his face.


    My eyes widened and I turned to Grimore immediately, "Are you sure I can use this room? It''s the former Queen''s, after all."


    "His Majesty, himself, told me to bring you here. I''m sure he has a reason for this," Grimore bowed and added, "Well then, I''ll tell Meylin to bring you some tea. I will be right back, Your Majesty."


    When Grimore left and shut the door, I walked towards the desk near the window and looked at the picture that sat there. It was a picture of the Fervocour family. Typhone was still young and I smiled when I noticed how happy he was.


    "I thought someone was here. The door was unlocked today."


    I turned my head and saw a woman standing by the door. It was Lady Emillya. I stood tall and smiled at her politely.


    "May I help you, Lady Emillya?" I asked, folding my hands in front of me.


    "I was just strolling around the castle, Your Majesty. I was curious why the Queen''s tea room was open so decided to enter." She stated, smiling. It was obviously a fake smile and I decided to keep my composure.


    "Have you not entered this room, my lady?"


    She looked at me as if she was offended and she scoffed, "How dare you ask me that question? Just because you''re the Queen doesn''t mean you can talk to me like that!"


    I blinked in surprise, "I was not implying anything. I was just merely--"


    "Don''t pretend you''re kind and innocent, Your Majesty. I know you stroll in your kingdom hunting for men to bring to your bed." She intervened and I was shocked.


    Where did she base that rumor from?


    I opened my mouth to say something, but the door flew open and revealed Grimore. He looked at Lady Emillya coldly and his usual cheerful and innocent demeanor changed. I shivered at his cold gaze even though it was not directed to me.


    "What are you doing here, my lady?" Grimore asked coldly.


    "I was just strolling around. I kind of missed the castle so--"


    She stopped talking when Grimore stepped onto her personal space and glared at her. Her whole body stiffened as she looked up at Grimore.


    "You have no right to enter this room. More importantly, you have no right to speak to Her Majesty like that. If it were the king who heard you, he would''ve sentenced you to death." Grimore stated menacingly.


    "I-I... I was just--" Lady Emillya tried to reason out, but Grimore did not let her.


    "Get out, Lady Emillya. You are not welcome in this room. Not now. Not ever." He said and Lady Emillya hurried outside.


    Grimore sighed and looked at me apologetically. He approached me and his usual cheerful demeanor was back. However, this time, his face was more worried than cheerful.


    "Are you alright, Your Majesty? She didn''t harm you, did she?" Grimore asked and I just smiled at him.


    "Don''t worry about me. I''m fine." I reassured him and he sighed deeply.


    "His Majesty is going to kill me if he finds out that a single hair from you is out of place. That bitch had the nerve to enter this room even though it was made clear that she''s not allowed here. Stupid whore." He said, mostly to himself, and groaned.


    I didn''t know Grimore could curse that much.


    I giggled, "I think His Majesty would be less upset if I was the one who told him what happened earlier."


    "I hope so, Your Majesty. Are you sure you want to be the one to tell him?" He looked at me with innocent eyes and I nodded.


    "Yes. I''m sure. Don''t worry about it, alright?" I smiled and sat on the couch.


    I probably leave out the words she said. I''m pretty sure he''ll get angry if I do.

 Chapter Twenty

    AVERY


    After the incident with Lady Emillya, Grimore helped me understand Lazarith more. He taught me the history of the kingdom, its political views, and current status. We were so busy learning that we didn''t notice Senha entering.


    "Grimore! What are you doing?! Didn''t you hear the gates opening? His Majesty has arrived!" Senha scolded, hands on her hips.


    Grimore gasped and checked his pocket watch, "It''s already this late?! Oh no! His Majesty is going to kill me! Your Majesty, we shall continue our lessons tomorrow, is that alright?"


    "I don''t mind at all. You may leave now, Grimore." I giggled and watched a panicked Grimore gather his things. He bowed to me, handed something to Senha  and rushed out of the tea room.


    Senha sighed, "That man. Really. When he gets so immersed with something, he loses track of his time."


    "Is that so?" I giggled and stood up, stretching my legs, "I should greet His Majesty, too. Let''s go, Senha."


    "Oh! Yes, of course, Your Majesty." Senha cheerfully said and once we were out of the tea room, she locked the door.


    I wonder why the former Queen''s tea room is so important, though.


    We walked to the entrance hall and there, I saw my husband all disheveled and dirty. He had scratches on his face and so did his men. When our eyes met, I smiled at him.


    "Welcome back, Your Majesty. I''m glad you''re safe." I said softly. I could have sworn that I saw a slight tinge of pink appear on his cheeks just as he approached me.


    "I''m back, my wife." His voice was raspy. He was about to hold my hand and kiss my knuckles when Senha slapped his hand away.


    Typhone and I looked at her, shocked at her sudden actions. My eyes widened and was about to ask her what was that for when she huffed.


    "Your Majesty! You''re not allowed to hold Her Majesty''s hand with your dirty ones! Can''t you see she''s wearing white gloves?" Senha reprimanded.


    It was silent for a moment before Typhone and I burst into laughter. I covered my mouth and cleared my throat.


    "Oh dear. Looks like you have to take a bath first, Your Majesty." I teased and Typhone sighed softly.


    "Alright, Lady Senha. I will get cleaned first before touching my wife." Typhone bowed to me with a smile before walking up to his room followed by Grimore.


    I looked at Senha, teasing, "Did you really have to slap his hand?"


    "Yes. I did. His Majesty was being rude." She huffed and I giggled at her cuteness.


    She''s too adorable yet very strict.


    **********


    While waiting for dinner and for Typhone to finish his bath, I stayed in my room and continued reading. Meylin brought me some tea while Senha was outside preparing for dinner.


    "The flowers are blooming beautifully." Meylin commented.


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    I looked up from my book to see the flowers shining. I smiled.


    "Yes. They are." I said softly.


    Just then, Senha entered my room and bowed, "Dinner is ready, Your Majesty."


    I smiled at her, "Thank you, Senha. I''ll be right there."


    I stood up from my seat, took a sniff of the flowers before heading out to the dining hall.


    When I entered, I heard Typhone''s loud voice. The guard opened the door and there I saw him standing, hands on his hips as he talked to Grimore.


    He looked at my direction for a brief moment before turning to Grimore again, whispering something to him before turning to meet me. I looked at Grimore and he bowed to us before walking out of the room.


    "Is everything alright?" I asked when he got closer to me.


    "Yes. Everything is fine. Shall we enjoy our dinner now, princess?" He offered his hand and I gladly accepted it.


    He pulled out my seat for me and I sat down, looking at the variety of dishes laid before me.


    "Why is there so much food?" I took a bite of a scallop, moaning in delight when the food touched my tongue.


    Jareth outdid himself again. These are so good!


    "Jareth made them as celebration on our successful hunt. I better make sure he gets a vacation one of these days." Typhone said, taking a bite of his food.


    ""So... how was your day?" He asked, looking at me.


    I bit my fork and hesitated for a moment. I looked up at him and smiled a little.


    "It was good. Grimore taught me about the history of Lazarith and uhm... I may or may not bumped into Lady Emillya." I said the last part sheepishly and I noticed his eyes narrowing.


    "Did she say anything to you? Harmed you?" He asked, voice firm and menacing.


    "No. Not at all. She just... greeted me is all." I lied and took another bite of my food.


    "Are you sure? You know, you can tell me anything, princess. I promised your parents that I''ll keep you safe." He reassured me and I almost wanted him to know what Lady Emillya said, but I did not tell him and stayed quiet.


    I smiled at him, "Yes. I''m sure."


    I better ask him about the tea room.


    "By the way, Your Majesty. Why did you allow me to use the former Queen''s tea room?" I looked at him and he stopped eating, looking at me in the eyes.


    "I realized that you love having a safe space where you could read and have tea. I thought of my mother''s tea room and told Grimore to let you use it." He said softly.


    "But... it''s the former Queen''s safe space and I... feel like I have no right to use it." I admitted, looking down on my food.


    Typhone placed a hand on top of mine and I stared at it.


    "I''m sure my mother would let you use it if she were here. It''s for you, princess. Use it however you see fit. It''s yours now." He said, eyes shining and I was lost in them for a moment.


    My cheeks heated up, making them red. I smiled, a little embarrassed, and looked my food.


    "I shall make good use of it, then. For the former Queen''s sake."


    "Good. That''s good, princess. Now... let''s enjoy our food." He said and I nodded.


    We ate our dinner in comfortable silence and small talk every now and then. My heart thumped unusually loud when Typhone looked at me.


    What is this feeling? It''s so unusual.


    **********


    After dinner, Typhone and I strolled around the castle grounds as per his request. It was a chilly night and as a girl who has not experienced this kind of environment, I shivered visibly. Typhone noticed this and took off his huge coat, wrapping it around me just like the first day we got here.


    I love how big he is. Wait. No! That sounded so wrong!


    "It is kind of cold tonight, huh? Winter season is almost over so the weather is changing now." He said and I nodded, snuggling against his coat.


    It smells like roses and him.


    "Oh. Is that so? I didn''t know that." I said softly.


    "You''ll finally get to see the flowers bloom in Lazarith, princess." He chuckled and I smiled.


    "I want to see the town, if that''s alright?" I glanced up at him.


    He hummed in thought, "Sure. But you''ll have to bring Grimore with you or Leonis. I might not be around by that time. There are... foreign issues I have to settle."


    "Oh. I see. That''s alright. I''ll bring Grimore with me when the time comes." I said, sounding a little disappointed.


    A few moments later, we arrived in front of my room. I took off the coat and handed it back to him. I smiled and bowed my head.


    "Thank you for walking me to my room, Your Majesty. Goodnight." I said and turned to head inside my room.


    "Avery." He called before I could open the door.


    I turned to him, "Yes?"


    He opened his mouth to say something then closed it again. His fists clench on his side and I tilted my head slightly. He shook his head.


    "It''s nothing. Goodnight, princess." Was all he said.


    I nodded and entered my room, closing the door behind me. I leaned against my door and sighed softly.


    Why was I expecting him to kiss me?

 Chapter Twenty-one

    TYPHONE


    When I entered my office, Grimore and Leonis were already there. Grimore was sorting through the papers on my desk and I sighed as I sat down on my seat.


    "What''s the matter, Your Masjety?" Grimore asked, pouring me a cup of coffee. The rich aroma filled my senses and I immediately took a sip.


    It''s a new flavor. It has a hint of sweetness to it.


    "It''s nothing. Let''s get to business, shall we?" I said, grabbing the paper that Grimore just handed me.


    I read through the report and my eyes narrowed at the words witten there. I groaned, rubbing my temples as I continued reading.


    "She really had the guts to say those words to the Queen of Lazarith?" I hissed angrily. Grimore looked at me with all seriousness and nodded.


    "I was not aware that she was here with her father, Your Majesty. According to the Baron''s letter, only he, himself, will visit." Grimore stated.


    I nodded, "So I read. It was inconsiderate and impolite of him to drag his daughter along without me knowing."


    "I''m guessing he wants Lady Emillya to throw off Her Majesty so she could be Queen." Leonis commented and approached the table.


    "That''s the most obvious possibility." I sighed and glared at Grimore''s report as if I could burn a hole through it.


    "What''s your plan, Your Majesty?" Leonis asked.


    I thought for a moment and stared at Emillya''s name written on the paper. I propped my elbows on the table and intertwined my hands. I looked at Grimore and Leonis.


    "We don''t punish these people because they''re not from out kingdom. However, I can... give word to the King of Traciana about... their delegate''s real purpose." I said coldly and both men bowed.


    I shall make sure they are punished accordingly. Who do they think they are trying to harm my wife?


    **********


    The next day, I was stumped with paperwork, but I managed to send a letter to the King of Traciana regarding Baron Prothens and his promiscuous daughter. I was scanning through documents when I heard a knock on my door.


    "Come in." I called out, not bothering to ask who was behind the door.


    Without looking up, I knew who entered my office. The mere feeling of the person''s presence made me clench my fists and I finally looked up, glaring at the person before me.


    "What''s with that glare, Your Majesty? I just came here to see you."


    Emillya. This bitch doesn''t know when to back off.


    "Who told you to come here? Can''t you see that you are not permitted to roam the palace as you wish?" I snapped at her before getting back to work.


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    "I wasn''t told anything like that, Your Majesty. Also, aren''t you glad to see me again? Maybe we could..." She said in a sultry voice while stalking towards me.


    I stopped her before she could even touch me. I grabbed her wrist tightly and looked down at her, eyes filled with annoyance and anger.


    "There is no ''we'', Lady Emillya. If no one told you, then I will. You are not allowed to roam the right wing of the palace. I will make sure that I will cut off your feet the moment you step into this wing one more time." I coldly warned and her eyes widened in shock.


    Her body trembled as she yanked her hand away. She hastily bowed to me and rushed out of my office. She bumped into Leonis on her way out and I sighed.


    "What happened, Your Majesty?" Leonis asked, closing the door behind him.


    "Emillya was here. She was pushing her luck, but I threatened her. I just hope she heeds my warning because I will, without a doubt, punish her severely." I said and sat back on my chair.


    I continued with my work, but paused when I realized that Leonis was here. I looked up at him and raised a brow.


    "What brings you here, by the way?" I asked.


    "Senha complained that Grimore is holding Her Majesty captive. According to her, Her Majesty has been in the tea room for the whole morning." Leonis said, face blank.


    My eyes slightly widened at his words and I waited for Leonis to continue talking. His eye twitched earlier and it was sign that there was more to it.


    He sighed, "Senha begged me to tell you so you could do something about it."


    That''s my cue.


    "Well then, what are we waiting for? Let''s go and save my wife from Grimore''s clutches." I said enthusiastically. I dropped my papers and stood up from my seat.


    Since I did my work a head of time, I have less worries now and I could spend some time with my wife.


    **********


    As we walked closer to the tea room, I could see Senha standing outside, a tray of tea in her hands. She sniffled and mumbled words to herself that I couldn''t understand.


    "That bastard. How dare he keep the Queen in there and not let her take a break?" Senha said, mostly to herself, once we got closer to her.


    "Senha." I called out and her head turned to me immediately.


    "Your Majesty. Please save Her Majesty. She hasn''t had a break since earlier." Senha whined and sniffled. I nodded.


    "Grimore is not taking note of the time again and he kicked me out when I tried to give them some tea." Senha added and groaned. Leonis placed a comforting hand on top of her head and she huffed mumbling to herself that she''ll teach Grimore a lesson when he comes out,


    Leonis and I stopped in front of the tea room and we could hear Grimore talking about politics. I turned the doorknob and was surprised at the sight.


    Avery was sat on the couch, scribbling on a paper while Leonis discussed. There were books scattered on the small table as well as papers. I looked around and noticed that the windows were shut tight.


    "Excuse me, Your Majesty, but can''t you see that we''re busy?" Grimore asked, raising a brow at me.


    I cleared my throat, "I''m here to take my wife for a walk and Jareth made some snacks for the Queen in the sun room."


    "Is that so? Then, we shall continue this tomorrow, Your Majesty." Grimore said and bowed to Avery. He gathered his things and walked out of the room with Leonis and Senha tagging along.


    Avery sighed and stretched her arms. I chuckled and sat beside her.


    "How are your lessons going?" I asked.


    "It''s quite alright. I mean... it''s a lot to take in because most of my knowledge is still more about Ynkerthia, but I manage." She said, smiling softly.


    "How about you? How''s... How''s your work going?" She asked, sitting up properly.


    "It''s fine. I''ve finished most of it so I can ditch them now." I smirked and she huffed.


    I got up and offered a hand to her. She looked at my hand curiously and I chuckled.


    "Let''s go for a walk. Then, I''ll take you to the sun room." I said and her eyes widened slowly.


    "Wait. You''re not lying about the snacks and the walk?" She asked in disbelief.


    "Of course not. I''m here to save my wife from driving herself to insanity." I teased and she placed her hand on mine, glaring at me.


    "I can handle a lot of information. Just so you know, Your Majesty." She retorted. I nodded and grinned.


    "Sure, princess. Anything you say." I cheekily said and led her out of the room.


    "Are you mocking me, Your Majesty?" She sounded annoyed, but also not. I laughed and she took her hand away. I offered my arm and she accepted it.


    "No. I''m not, princess. I was merely teasing you is all." I said, holding in my laughter. She playfully nudged me and I smiled a little.


    It''s nice to have moments like this once in a while.

 Chapter Twenty-two

    TYPHONE


    We walked around the palace and into the greenhouse where more flowers bloom and colorful plants were seen. Avery gasped in surprise when we entered. She pulled away from me and walked deeper inside the greenhouse.


    "I didn''t know these kinds of plants could grow here." She said in awe.


    "It''s rare and took the scholars a few years to research what plants could grow in Lazarith." I replied, eyes darting to a yellow flower.


    "So... that means you gave them the budget and supplies to conduct their research, correct?" She asked, turning to me with her eyes wide in shock.


    "Yes. I did. I thought it would benefit Lazarith and it did. Some of our plants were cross bred with another in order for them to grow." I explained while touching a beautiful red rose.


    "You are amazing. Lazarith is amazing." She mumbled loud enough for me to hear.


    My eyes widened in surprise and I looked at her as she sniffed the pink roses. I wanted to hug her and kiss her and tell her that  everything in Lazarith is as good as hers, but I could not.


    I was so lost in thought that I did not notice Avery calling me. I looked at her. She had her eyebrows knitted together in confusion and she was so close to me that I could smell her.


    She smells like roses and milk.


    "What was it you''re saying?" I asked, moving a step back from her.


    "I was asking you if I could take a quick look around the greenhouse. Are you alright? You were spacing out." She said softly.


    I nodded and gave her a half smile, "Yes. Yeah. Go ahead. I''ll follow behind you, princess."


    She stared at me for a brief moment before turning on her heel and walked where the other plants were. I followed her and watched as she stopped here and there, admiring the various plants.


    "Your Majesties! We didn''t notice you were walking in the greenhouse." One of the scholars, Khiel, gasped.


    I nodded at him and noticed that him and the other scholars were doing an experiment. I turned to Avery and was about to ask her if she wanted to watch the children, but Khiel beat me to it.


    "Your Majesties, do want to watch our experiment? We''re cross breeding a rice plant with another plant that lives in a hot and dry land." Khiel said. Avery and I approached them, watching them do their research.


    "This study finally had progress, I presume." I commented and Khiel nodded excitedly.


    "Yes. Finally... people who are living in hot and dry lands can grow grains." He said and poured some chemical onto a container,


    I could feel Avery''s eyes on me so I looked at her. She was slightly surprised and turned back to the experiment. She blushed and I could see her ears turning red.


    She''s too adorable. Really.


    **********


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    We watched the scholars for about half an hour before leaving and finally went to the sun room where, in fact, snacks and tea were prepared for us.


    "Wow. Those cookies smell amazing." Avery said and walked towards the couch. She sat there and I chuckled sitting on the couch across from her.


    "I didn''t think Jareth will make this much." I noted, looking at the different kinds of sweets and snacks laid out in front of us.


    "I know. He''s so hardworking." Avery said and giggled.


    There was a knock on the door. I glanced at it, "Come in."


    The door opened and revealed Senha. She smiled brightly and bowed to us.


    "Good afternoon, Your Majesties. I''m here to serve you a fresh batch of tea and coffee." Senha cheerfully said and placed down a new set of tea and coffee on the table.


    "Coffee? You have coffee here?" Avery asked and tilted her head slightly.


    I chuckled and offered, "Would you like a taste?"


    "Can I? Growing up, I have always drank tea and by now, I think I think I can make my own blend." She giggled and I nodded.


    "Sure." I ushered Senha to serve Avery some coffee.


    "Would you like to taste it first, Your Majesty?" Senha asked and Avery nodded.


    Senha served her the freshly brewed coffee without any milk or sugar. Avery took a sip and immediately, her face scrunched in distaste. I suddenly burst out laughing and Senha giggled.


    "That was so bitter." Avery said, handing Senha her cup.


    "I''ll add some cream and sugar, then, Your Majesty. You can add some more to suit your taste." Senha adviced and Avery watched her mix in some cream and sugar.


    Then, Avery glared at me and I cleared my throat. I grinned at her and she huffed, crossing her arms over her chest.


    "What''s so funny, Your Majesty?" She asked, sounding angry.


    "Oh. It''s nothing. I was just impressed by your... expression." I teased and she just turned to Senha who handed her the new cup of coffee.


    Avery took a sip and moaned in delight, "This is better. So much better. Thank you, Senha."


    "You are very welcome, Your Majesty. I''ll leave now, Your Majesties." She said, bowed and left the room.


    Avery seemed to enjoy her new drink and I enjoyed mine as well.


    "Coffee is mostly drank by men so I did not expect you to like it." I said and she looked up at me.


    She set down her cup, "My father hates coffee so we don''t have it in our kingdom, but I''ve read all about it. Maybe I''ll try drinking coffee more often. I like how it tastes with cream and sugar."


    "There are different blends as well. If you want something fruity or something more bitter, you can ask Senha or Grimore." I said.


    "I can do my own experiment, then." Her eyes widened and shone brightly. She looked so excited and it made me chuckle.


    "Sure, princess. You can do that." I said, grinning from ear to ear.


    We enjoyed our short break before we got busy with out tasks again. There was small talk here and there as well as the occasional banter and teasing.


    **********


    After that break, I was locked in my office by Grimore who forced me to finish all the paperwork today.


    "Grimore. Don''t forget. I still have to join my wife for dinner." I reminded him while signing some documents.


    "Don''t worry, Your Majesty. I won''t miss that." He said curtly as he scanned through some documents on his own desk located on my right.


    I glared at him and without looking up, Grimore said, "Don''t look at me like that, Your Majesty. It''s your fault for leaving the office and not finishing the paperworks."


    "Senha was right. You''re a monster." I grumbled and sighed, signing more documents.


    Now, the room was silent and only the rustling of paper was heard. As I flipped through a page, the content piqued my interest and I raised a brow.


    "Grimore. Tell me. What monsters are evident in our kingdom currently?" I asked.


    "Some wild wolves, ogres, and some huge snakes, Your Majesty. I heard they were spotted the day of your wedding, but was taken care of." Grimore replied.


    "This report. A large snake was illegally exported from our kingdom. Have you heard of that?" I looked up at Grimore and he seemed surprised.


    "I haven''t, Your Majesty. Who wrote the report?" He asked and I scanned the document.


    "Count Windermere." I recited the name and Grimore hummed in thought.


    "It''s not impossible for him to report it since he lives near the border. Shall I write a letter to him, Your Majesty?" He asked.


    "Yes. Set a meeting with him for tomorrow. I need to find out who''s behind this."


    "Is it possible that those people are behind the disappearance of some dragons recently?" Grimore asked and I narrowed my eyes at the papers I was holding.


    "It''s possible. I have to talk to the Count. Send him a letter immediately." I ordered Grimore. He pulled out a paper and began writing.


    Whoever is doing this in my domain is going to get their heads cut.

 Chapter Twenty-three

    AVERY


    Grimore canceled our lessons for today because he had a meeting with the Count and His Majesty. I was left alone in the tea room, reading.


    Senha entered the room a few moments later and set a tray of snacks and tea. I smiled at her.


    "Thank you, Senha. Is His Majesty done with their meeting?" I asked and Senha shook her head.


    "Not yet, Your Majesty. They''ve been in there for quite a while now." She replied and I just nodded.


    I wonder what their meeting is all about.


    "Do you... want to visit the town, Your Majesty?" Senha asked. I looked at her, eyes wide and excitement buzzing all over me.


    "Can I really?" I squealed and Senha giggled, nodding.


    "Of course, Your Majesty. I''ll let Sir Leonis and Sir Richtan know." She said and immediately rushed out of the room. I looked at the tea and nibbled on a few snacks while waiting for Senha.


    Sir Leonis agreed to guard us during the trip and Sir Richtan also agreed. I decided to bring Meylin along and after I got dressed in warmer clothes, we headed out.


    The carriage that we were riding was huge and I was stunned by its size. When it stopped in front of me, my mouth hung open for a bit. Sir Leonis offered his hand and I snapped out of my thoughts and placed my hand on his.


    "This carriage is huge." I gasped when Sir Richtan opened the door.


    The inside was spacious. It was warm and the interior was red and gold. I got inside followed by Meylin and Senha who sat in front of me.


    "The carriage is big because His Majesty has a huge build. I remember Grimore asking for this because he needed a more formal mode of traveling." Senha explained and I nodded.


    "Right. Because... his dragon is not a formal way of traveling." I giggled and Senha did as well.


    Meylin huffed, "I was really surprised when I saw it. It was so big."


    "You don''t have to worry about Calagon. He''s kind and sweet when he wants to. He grew up here so... I can say he''s like a cat." Senha said and smiled brightly.


    "A huge cat." Meylin mumbled softly and I giggled.


    I looked out the window and finally, we got out the palace walls. The ground was still filled with snow and I marveled at how how people come and go despite the cold weather.


    I just hoped Typhone could have joined me.


    **********


    We stopped the carriage on a street where there was a lot of people. I looked out the window and noticed that everyone did not mind us.


    "I wonder how the people will think of me." I mumbled out loud.


    Senha gasped, "They''ll love you, Your Majesty. I''m sure!"


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    I smiled at her and then the door opened. Sir Richtan offered his hand and I took it. I got out of the carriage and looked around. The town was buzzing with people and the stores were brimming with goods and food.


    I took a whiff of something sweet and I hummed.


    "That smells so good." I mumbled.


    "Shall we go to that bakery, Your Majesty? They serve the best sweets and pastries." Senha asked excitedly and I nodded.


    "Yes." I said happily.


    We walked towards the bakery and I was surprised by how kind and cheerful the people are despite the cold weather. When we reached the bakery, the man beamed at us.


    "Senha! Good to see you out and about again!" The man exclaimed. Meylin and I were surprised with his loud voice while Senha laughed.


    "Her Majesty finally had time to go out. What''s new on the menu?" Senha said, scanning the variety of sweets and pastries.


    "Oh! How rude of me?! Good day, Your Majesty! Please help yourself in my delicious pastries. They''re all freshly baked and new." The man said and I gave him a kind smile.


    "I''ll pick the best for you, Your Majesty!" Senha offered, making me giggle.


    "Senha, just buy 5 of each. I''ll bring some to His Majesty, anyway." I ordered, smiling. Both Senha and the owner gawked at me.


    "R-Right. Of course, Your Majesty." Senha stuttered and immediately went to recite my order.


    Meylin sighed softly, "There you go again spending so much on food that may or may not be eaten."


    "Oh. Hush now. I''ll just give them to the servants if we don''t get to finish them all." I giggled, watching as Senha rushed to Meylin and I.


    "Are you sure about this, Your Majesty? It''s a lot." Senha said and handed the bags to Sir Leonis who handled it with ease.


    "Don''t worry. Those won''t go to waste." I reassured her and we began walking around, looking at some things that caught our interest.


    I noticed some strawberries on a stick shining like glass. I approached the stall and admired the shiny strawberries. The female vendor smiled at me.


    "Would you like a taste of the candied strawberries, Your Majesty?" She asked and my eyes widened at her.


    "Candied... strawberries?" I asked in disbelief.


    "Yes. They''re sweet and delicious." She beamed and handed me a stick. 5 strawberries were placed on top on each other like a skewer and I marveled at how shiny they were.


    I took a small bite and the crunch of the strawberries shocked me. The sweetness spread through out my tongue and I moaned softly.


    It''s so sweet and delicious! It''s addicting!


    I finished a strawberry and handed the stick to Meylin.


    "You must try it, Meylin. They are absolutely delicious!" I said, chewing on the strawberry. Meylin took the stick and removed one strawberry, popping it whole in her mouth. She gasped and moaned in delight.


    "So sweet and crunchy." She mumbled as she chewed on the strawberry.


    She passed the stick to Senha and she copied Meylin. Senha gave me the stick and I offered the two extra strawberries to Sir Richtan and Sir Leonis.


    "Excuse me, do they melt?" I asked the vendor and she chuckled.


    "Not at all, Your Majesty. How many would you like to buy?" She asked, grabbing a box.


    "I''ll take 5 please." I said excitedly. The vendor bagged up the strawberries and I happily took them. Sir Richtan offered to bring the bag and I gave it to him.


    We walked around, looking at stalls and stores. I bought a few things like ribbons and books. I also bought a few things for Typhone. A red brooch caught my eye which had a dragon design and I decided to buy it for Typhone.


    After walking for a while, we decided to go home. We stopped in the middle of town and Sir Richtan grabbed the bags Sir Leonis was holding.


    "I''ll bring the carriage here, Your Majesty. Please wait for a while." Sir Richtan said and walked away to get the carriage.


    I looked at the fountain in the middle of town and admired how bright it was. I noticed a man playing a guitar and in a whim, I approached him.


    "Excuse me, sir. Can you... play me a tune?" I asked and the man nodded, smiling.


    He strummed the guitar and I took a deep breath. Then, I sang. The melody of my voice was better than before. I was hitting every note and the setting sun added to my mood, making me sing louder and more beautifully.


    I closed my eyes and sang my heart out.


    After the song and hitting the last notes, I was surprised with how much people had gathered. They were clapping and cheering. I smiled and bowed.


    Then, the carriage arrived and I bowed to the people one last time before getting on the carriage.


    "That was so beautiful, Your Majesty. You''re so good in singing." Senha said, sniffling.


    I smiled and looked out the window where people are waving at me. I waved though the window.


    I think... I''m beginning to love Lazarith.

 Chapter Twenty-four

    AVERY


    When we came back to the palace, I saw Count Windermere walking down the stairs. I just got out out of the carriage and Sir Leonis was helping me down.


    The Count looked up when he saw me. He was not that old. His slight brown hair that had gray streaks bounced as he walked down. His kind blue eyes smiled just as he smiled at me. He approached me and bowed.


    "Good day, Your Majesty. I see you''ve taken a stroll in town." He mused and I smiled softly.


    "Ah. Yes. I just wanted get out the palace." I said, voice soft.


    "I''m glad to hear that. I hope you enjoyed your stroll. I must get going now. Farewell, Your Majesty." He said and bowed one last time before walking towards his carriage.


    I watched him ride the carriage and leave.


    "Count Windermere is one if the nobles that His Majesty trusts." Sir Leonis said and I looked up at him.


    "He seems kind." I said and walked up the stairs with Sir Leonis behind me.


    "He is. He became busy, though, when his grandson was born." Sir Leonis replied.


    I looked back at him with wide eyes and surprise evident in my features, "Grandson? He''s not that old, right?"


    Sir Leonis looked at me and blinked, "Count Windermere is like... 56 years old, Your Majesty."


    "Yes. Exactly. He''s not that old." I reasoned.


    "Well... from what he said, his eldest son got married at a young age and decided not to succeed him." Sir Leonis rubbed his chin as if remembering something.


    "Oh. I see." I simply said and nodded.


    We walked inside and I was greeted with Typhone rushing towards me. His face was etched with worry and panic.


    "Where were you? I was looking everywhere for you." Typhone said, voice laced with worry.


    "I was... in town. I... thought Sir Leonis told you." I said. I looked at Sir Leonis and he looked away.


    Ah! He didn''t tell Typhone anything!


    I glared at him and he cleared his throat, "I assumed His Majesty didn''t want to be disturbed so I didn''t say anything."


    "You could''ve relied the message to Grimore." Typhone sighed, rubbing his temple.


    "Oh, but Grimore would probably just brush me off, Your Majesty." Sir Leonis turned to Grimore who gasped in surprise.


    "I would never brush off something related to Her Majesty!" Grimore exclaimed.


    "Alright, everyone. Calm down. I''ve gone to town and came back in one piece so... I''m sure that will ease your worries now, Your Majesty." I said and placed a comforting hand on his arm.


    Typhone looked at me from head to toe and sighed in defeat. I smiled softly and caressed his arm.


    "Also, I was with Sir Richtan and Sir Leonis. You did not really need to worry." I reassured him.


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    He glared at Sir Leonis. In return, Sir Leonis looked away and walked towards the servants who were bringing my stuff inside. I could feel him burning in annoyance so I decided to ease his worry a little.


    "I''ve bought you some things. Why don''t we open it I my room, hm?" I asked. His head turned to me and his eyes widened.


    "Really?"


    I giggled, nodding, "Yes. Now, shall we?"


    I can''t believe he could worry like this.


    **********


    When we arrived in my room, Meylin brought us some tea and snacks that I bought from town. Typhone eyed all of the snacks and hummed in thought.


    "So you bought different kinds of snacks, hmm?" He mused, grabbing a cookie.


    "Yeah. They looked so good so I bought a lot. I don''t know. I... I kind of want to try them all." I said, embarrassed. I took a sip of my tea and glanced at Typhone who was clearly enjoying the sweet treat in his hand.


    "So... may I ask what your meeting with the Count was?" I asked, a little hesitant.


    Typhone looked at me in the midst of him biting his cookie. He lowered his gaze for a brief moment before looking back up at me. I could tell he was hesitating.


    "You don''t need to tell me. I was just... curious because... well... the meeting went on for so long." I immediately said, waving a hand in front of me.


    "It''s alright, princess. Since it''s just the two of us here, I''ll tell you," Typhone inhaled his cookie and took a sip of tea, "There has been a sighting of illegal trade near the border. Count Windermere''s house is by the border so he knows everything that''s going on there."


    "Illegal trade of what?" I asked, placing down my cup on the table.


    "Monsters." He said casually.


    I looked up at him in disbelief and I was frozen in place. I blinked at him once, twice. I swallowed and after a few moments, I found my voice.


    "What... What kind of monsters?" I asked in a low voice.


    "I don''t know. But on one event, there was a giant red snake that I failed to hunt and now it''s missing from its nest and usual locations." Typhone sighed and looked outside the window.


    "Keeping wild monsters like that is illegal. That is why we need to kill it when we see them. However, dragons are a different story." He added.


    I tilted my head slightly, curious, "What do you mean?"


    "You see, princess, dragons were once allies of the people. They were not weapons of destruction and like knights, they protect their kingdom and the people that take care of them." Typhone explained and my ears perked up, interested. I stayed silent as way of telling him to continue.


    "But as time passed, people became greedy. They abused the dragons, sold them, killed them and sold their scales and teeth, and tortured them until they obeyed." At Typhone''s words, my heart broke and I subconsciously clenched my fists.


    "So... are they disappearing now? Is Calagon... the only dragon that survived?" I asked, voice soft.


    "No, princess. They''re not. I''m saving them. I want to save them. Not to become allies, but to protect them from people who want to do evil things with them." His voice was firm and I could sense all the determination in him.


    I smiled softly, "You are kind, Typhone. Despite what other people think, you have a kind heart."


    He chuckled, "You''re too nice, princess. I am practically still a ruthless king."


    "Maybe. But... not all the time. I mean... you''re kind to me, aren''t you?" I teased and he huffed.


    "That''s because you''re fragile, princess." He grinned. I narrowed my eyes at him.


    "What do you mean by that, Your Majesty?" I hissed, making him chuckle again.


    "Nothing, princess." He smirked.


    My cheeks turned red and I huffed, turning away and grabbing my cup. I took a sip of my tea, glancing at him once more through the cup.


    This man really knows how to push my buttons.


    "So... how was your trip to the town? Was it everything you hoped for?" He asked, breaking the brief silence.


    "It was fun. There were some food and sweets that really caught my eye so I bought a few." I said and realized something.


    I forgot about the brooch!


    "I forgot to give you something." I said. I walked to my vanity table and saw the black pouch that sat there. I smiled.


    I walked to where Typhone was sitting and handed him the pouch. He looked at it and raised a brow at me. I rolled my eyes playfully.


    "Just take it." I insisted. He hesitantly picked it up.


    Goodness. His hand dwarfed the pouch.


    I shook my head and watched him open the pouch. He picked up the item that was inside. I was nervous that he might not like it, but all that nervousness vanished when I noticed his eyes widened very slightly.


    "Wow. This is... This is really stunning, princess. Thank you." He mumbled loud enough for me to hear. I smiled widely.


    "You''re welcome. Here let me put it on for you." I said and gently took the brooch, placing it on his shirt.


    "The dragon emblem was so like you so I bought it." When I finished, that''s when I realized how close we were. I looked up and saw him looking down at me. I swallowed thickly and tried to move away, but I felt his large hand grab my waist. I gasped softly.


    He slowly lowered his head and I closed my eyes.


    Oh. Is this it? Will he finally kiss me?

 Chapter Twenty-five

    TYPHONE


    It was after dinner and Avery made me drop by her room to gather the things she brought for me. Leonis groaned as he carried an arm full of things that Avery gave me. I looked behind me and smirked.


    "Keep up, Leonis. You''re not that old to fall behind, right?" I taunted. Leonis glared at me.


    "I was hoping all of those things she brought was for Her Majesty, herself. I did not realize that she brought you some stuff as well." He complained.


    I smirked, proud, "What can I say? My wife thinks about me, too."


    Leonis rolled his eyes at me and we continued to head towards my room. We walked the dark halls in silence, save for Leonis often groaning.


    That''s what you get for not informing me of my wife''s whereabouts.


    When we reached my room, he dropped the stuff on the couch purposely. I glared at him and huffed.


    "You could have put them on the table." I snarled. This did not scare Leonis and instead, he just sighed.


    "You have a bed for a reason, Your Majesty. The couch is not fit for you to sleep on." He reasoned and bowed, turning on his heel to leave, "Goodnight, Your Majesty."


    Once Leonis closed the door, I sighed, rubbing my temple. I walked over to the couch and eyed the small and big bags filled with unknown things.


    What in the world could she have gotten me?


    I picked up a small bag and opened it. It was a white handkerchief with red and gold embroidery on it. I grinned as I saw the initial ''T'' in the corner.


    "I don''t even use a handkerchief." I chuckled to myself and grabbed a bigger bag.


    I untied the ribbon and grabbed the contents. It was a little heavy. I felt cold metal and I immediately pulled it out. It was a container, tin can. I looked at the elegant and delicate design of the container, taking off the lid.


    It''s chocolate.


    I took a piece and popped one in my mouth. I groaned at the sweetness. I noticed a note on the floor that must have fell from the container. I picked it up, reading the note that said:


    Dear Typhone,


    I was told these chocolates are special and delicious. Senha recommended them. Don''t worry. I did not put anything in it. I tasted one and it was so delicious. Enjoy!


    Sincerely,


    Avery


    I smirked at the note, placing it on my bedside table. I wanted to open the rest of the gifts Avery gave me, but I wanted to postpone it for the mean time. Just to make it feel special.


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    I walked to the bathroom and took off my shirt. I glanced at the huge scar on my arm. It was a recent one when I went to battle before my wedding. It was huge and was so unsightly.


    I scowled and threw my shirt on the mirror, disgusted by how my body looked. I walked to my bedroom and laid on my bed. I sighed, draping an arm over my eyes.


    I have to settle that illegal trade tomorrow. I didn''t get to see Avery the whole day today and I''m fucking pissed.


    Thinking deeply, I jumped out of bed, grabbed my robe and wore it. I walked out of my room and bumped onto someone just as I opened the door.


    "I''m sorry. I didn''t know you''re coming out." It was Avery. I looked down and saw her wearing a silky white nightgown under her baby pink robe. It was designed with lace on the chest area.


    I swallowed thickly, "What are you doing here this late at night?"


    She looked up at me with those innocent lavender eyes and pink cheeks. She looked down when our eyes met for a moment.


    "I was just checking if... you''re asleep. If you weren''t, I was... well... I was going to invite you for some tea or wine or something." She muttered, fiddling with the ties of her robe.


    "Well, I''m not asleep and I can''t sleep so why not? I''ll take you up on that offer, princess." I said, smirking.


    Everyone in the castle were already asleep and we couldn''t ask Grimore to serve us. Avery suggested to use the kitchen on our own. I agreed.


    **********


    "Tell me, princess. What are you looking for?" I asked as I watched her hips sway from side to side, tempting me to grab them.


    She was bent over the kitchen counter and was looking for something. She groaned and hummed.


    "I could have sworn Jareth placed them here... Ah! I got it!" She exclaimed, standing straight. I looked away for a moment when she walked towards me.


    "Hold this for me." She said, handing me two glasses.


    Ah. So she was looking for these.


    I walked towards a huge cabinet and opened it. I scanned the variety of wine bottles inside. My eyes narrowed when not one of them piqued my interest. I clicked my tongue and was about to open another cabinet when Avery gasped.


    "That''s a lot of wine. Don''t you have a wine cellar?" She asked.


    "It''s cold in here, princess. We only put the wines in the cellar during the warmer season." I said. She reached out, grabbing a bottle.


    She picked one that I hated. One that the bastard King of Hollingrew gave me on my birthday.


    "Is this any good?" She looked up at me, holding up the bottle of wine.


    I contemplated with telling the truth or lying but after a few moments of thinking, I spoke.


    "No. I have a better option." I stated and took the bottle from her hand, placing it back to where it was. I closed the cabinet and walked over to another huge cabinet.


    Avery gasped when she saw another cabinet filled with bottles of wine. I scanned the various bottles until I found the one I want. I grabbed the bottle from the top part of the cabinet and handed it to her.


    "Isn''t this..." She trailed off, "This is a rare brand of wine, isn''t it?"


    "Yes. A certain king gave it to me as compensation." I looked away, trying to avoid to subject. However, this didn''t escape Avery''s sharp intuition.


    "Oh. Did the King of Traciana give it to you as an apology gift for Lady Emillya''s troubles here?" She was teasing me, giggling. I looked down at her, leaned in close enough that our noses touched.


    "You''re smart, princess." I whispered, watching her eyes slowly widen and cheeks turning redder by the second.


    I smirked, "Yes. It''s true, though. He gave it to me and in exchange, I brought him a pet."


    Avery blinked once, twice. I moved away from her.


    "What kind of pet?"


    "A wolf." I casually said.


    Her eyes widened and her mouth slowly hung open. She covered her mouth then uncovered it again.


    "What do you mean by that?" She whispered.


    "I''ll tell you later." I chuckled. I turned to the counter, grabbed the bowl of fruits and handed it to Avery which she gladly took. Then, I grabbed the bowl of cookies and ushered for her to head out the kitchen.


    We walked in comfortable silence towards the former Queen''s tea room. Avery unlocked the door with her spare key and walked inside.


    I followed behind her, shutting the door with my foot. Settling the glasses and bowl of fruits on the table, I noticed Avery doing the same. The only problem was that her cleavage was peeking through. Her creamy white skin tempted me to grab her waist, kiss her, and fuck her right there on the couch.


    I shook my head and sat on the couch opposite hers. She sat down, crossing her legs and smiling innocently.


    "So... about the wolf." She began.


    I feel like I''m going to regret agreeing to drink with her tonight.

 Chapter Twenty-Six

    TYPHONE


    Two drinks. Three. I could tell that Avery was tipsy or rather -- drunk. She was swaying in her seat, giggling at every word that came out of my mouth. I drank my wine in one gulp, setting the glass on the table.


    "I want to see the--" She hiccupped and her words were slightly slurred, "The... The wolf. The big... white... wuff."


    "Sure, princess. Let''s go see it next time we visit." I said, sighing as she finally laid on the couch.


    She was giggling while swirling the drink in her hand. Her eyes closed, still giggling.


    I''m quite surprised the drink is not spilling all over her.


    I got up and took the drink away from her. She whined. My hand twitched when her flushed face turned to look up at me. Her eyes were hazy and half-lidded, cheeks red, and pink lips pouting slightly.


    You are testing my patience here, princess.


    "That''s enough wine for you, princess. You''re drunk." I stated, placing her glass on the table.


    "I''m not drunk and ''m not a pwincess. ''M your wife. The... Queen." She huffed, sitting back up and crossing her arms over her chest.


    I chuckled in amusement, "Yes. Yes, you are. You are my wife."


    She whined even louder, stretching her arms out as if reaching for me. My eyes widened at how innocent she looked. I stood there, froze in my spot.


    "Take me choo my woom. Please?" Avery begged, words slurring and pouting slightly.


    This woman is going to be the death of me. I swear.


    **********


    Carrying her bridal style was a little frustrating. She wriggled from my hold at one point which almost made me drop her. When I reprimanded her, she just giggled and nuzzled against my chest.


    I walked slowly just to savor the feeling of Avery''s body close to mine. I held her gently, secure. She was half asleep, random words came out of her mouth.


    Once we arrived in her room, I opened the door and shut it close with my foot. I strode towards her bed and gently laid her there. Her face scrunched as she whined.


    I grinned, "You sure are a handful when you''re drunk, princess."


    I tucked her in, brushing away a few strands of hair away from her face. I smiled, soft. The affection and attraction I have been feeling towards her were getting stronger each day.


    I''ve never felt this much warmth in my life. It''s strange.


    I watched her for a lingering moment before standing straight. Just as I was about to leave, I felt a tug on my robe. I looked back and saw Avery sitting up, her eyes half-lidded.


    "Aren''t you going to stay with me, Your Majesty?" She asked, voice soft and words clearer than earlier.


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    "I can''t stay here, princess." I said firmly. I tried my best not to give in to her request.


    I might not hold myself back if I stayed here.


    "Why? You''re my husband. You should be able to sleep with me, right?''" Her voice was pleading, asking. She wanted me on her bed. I swallowed thickly.


    "I can''t. I shouldn''t." I said, fists clenching on my side.


    "Is it because... I''m not pretty enough? Am I... not alluring enough for you?" Her voice cracked. She sounded hurt and I could not bear to hear her like that.


    I clenched my teeth and whirled around, pinning her down on her bed. I looked down at her. Lavender eyes stared up at me in surprise. Her soft cheeks were tinted red and lips parted ever so slightly. I knelt on one knee on her bed.


    "You are beautiful and so... so captivating, princess," I whispered softly, "But I just... can''t."


    I watched her expression turned into one of disappointment. She looked away and pursed her lips.


    "I see." Was all she said. She wriggled out of my towering figure and turned her back on me.


    "Princess." I called out softly, but she just kept her back on me.


    I sighed and stood up. I walked to her door and before I left, I looked back at her curled up figure.


    Fuck. I just didn''t want to hurt her.


    **********


    The next morning, I woke up to Grimore shaking me awake. I groaned and pulled the covers over my head. I felt my head pounding and the thought of getting out of bed exhausted me.


    "Your Majesty, please get up. We have papers to sign and documents to review." Grimore pulled away the covers and I growled.


    "I''m tired. Leave me alone." I hissed.


    "Don''t be such a spoiled child, Your Majesty!" Grimore exclaimed. My left eye twitched and I sat up, glaring at him.


    "What did you just call me?" I asked, annoyed.


    Grimore flinched, dropping the covers he was holding, "It''s just... uhm... Your Majesty is sulking like a child so I... I... I apologize, Your Majesty."


    I was about to lunge at Grimore when a knock on my door was heard. I glared at the door.


    "What?" I snapped.


    When the door opened, Leonis entered. He bowed as a greeting and raised a brow at me.


    "Your Majesty. It''s time for you to get up. You have a busy day ahead." He said ever so casually.


    "A busy day, huh?" I mused, "Fine. I''m getting ready."


    I got out of bed. I heard Grimore sigh in relief as I walked past him and into my bathroom. I washed my face and stared at my reflection for a brief moment.


    How am I going to face Avery now?


    After I got ready, I walked to the dining room with Leonis and Grimore following behind. When the doors opened, the room was empty, save for some servants who were bringing in the food.


    I stopped one servant and asked her, "Where is Her Majesty?"


    "Her Majesty requested her breakfast in her room." The servant said.


    My eyes widened and realization dawned on me.


    She is clearly upset. No. She''s obviously mad.


    I ate breakfast alone. My mind was filled with thoughts of Avery. I took a bite of my food and hummed.


    "Your Majesty? Is everything alright?" Grimore asked hesitantly.


    "I''m fine." A thought came to mind, "You''re going to teach Avery later, aren''t you?"


    Grimore looked at me in confusion, "Well, yes, Your Majesty."


    "I want you to subtly ask her things she like. Just... be subtle. I don''t have enough time to attend to her right now." I said.


    "Are you and Her Majesty fighting right now, Your Majesty?"


    I glared at him and Grimore flinched, "I will cut off your tongue if you ask me that again."


    I sighed softly and stared down at my unfinished food. I groaned.


    Why is it that this woman is giving me a hard time?


    "Your Majesty. There''s another monster lurking outside the forest of the kingdom." A knight barged in the room and my ears perked.


    I immediately stood up from my seat and grabbed my coat and sword from Grimore.


    "Send knights to distract it. Bring some nets and traps. This one is going to be a hard catch," I wore my coat and strapped my sword on my waist, "It''s mating season, after all."


    I took long strides towards the back of the castle where Calagon was waiting for me. I approached my dragon and before I could mount him, Grimore called out.


    "Are you not going to tell Her Majesty?" He yelled out.


    "Just let her know where I went. This might take a couple of days. Don''t worry. I''ll make sure to send a letter." I said, mounting Calagon.


    I watched as my knights got ready. I had to be there before them. I whistled, signaling Calagon to fly. I looked out to the horizon and noticed where the monster was just as we reached the skies.


    This is going to be rough. It''s a big one.

 Chapter Twenty-Seven

    AVERY


    "Your Majesty, would you like more tea?" Senha asked as Meylin took the empty dishes away.


    "I''m good, Senha. Thank you." I said, smiling softly.


    Senha bowed and walked out my room with Meylin. As I was left alone in the room, I couldn''t help but think of the events that happened last night.


    I squealed and buried my face in my hands. My face was hot and I felt my ears getting hotter.


    I wanted the ground to swallow me whole. How dare I ask Typhone that? To make it worse, I had the nerve to sulk!


    Slowly, I removed my hands away from my face and sighed softly. I ate my breakfast in my room because I was so embarrassed to face him.


    I wonder if he''s mad at me for not showing up at the dining room.


    I sighed again and mumbled softly to myself, "I better get ready for my lesson with Grimore."


    I got up from my seat. My gaze landed on the roses that sat beautifully in front of me. The roses were still looking so vibrant and healthy.


    Walking towards the vase of roses, I leaned in and sniffed the flowers. I smiled softly, caressing the petals.


    "It''s still so pretty despite the cold weather." I whispered softly, "I hope you continue to be healthy and pretty."


    I stood up straight and walked out of my room. Outside, Sir Richtan was waiting. I smiled up at him and he bowed to me.


    We walked through the halls in silence. When we passed by the windows, I stopped and looked outside, my eyes caught something.


    I just saw Calagon. Is Typhone going somewhere?


    **********


    When we arrived at the tea room, Grimore was already there setting up for today''s lessons.


    "Good morning, Your Majesty. How was your breakfast this morning?" Grimore greeted, bowing.


    "It was good. Thank you, Grimore. The strawberries were really sweet." I giggled and walked to the desk, sitting behind it.


    "I''m glad, Your Majesty. Those were freshly picked from our own garden." He proudly stated.


    I hummed, smiling, "Is that so? I would love to see the fruits garden sometime."


    "Of course, Your Majesty!" He exclaimed.


    I watched as Grimore''s expression changed of one of excitement to one of nervousness and hesitation. I tilted my head slightly.


    "Is there something wrong, Grimore?" I asked.


    "Well... His Majesty asked me to tell you about his mission today," He paused, "His Majesty might not be back for... a few days."


    My eyes slowly widened in surprise. I blinked away the shock on my face and nodded.


    "Oh. I... I see. I could have sent him off earlier if he told me." I mumbled softly, but loud enough for Grimore to hear.


    "I am assuming... Your Majesties are fighting?"


    I waved my hands in front of me and laughed sheepishly, "It''s not really a fight. It''s more like a... misunderstanding is all."


    "Oh. Alright, Your Majesty," Grimore grabbed a book and flipped through its pages. I grabbed the same book.


    "Shall we continue with our lesson, then?"


    I smiled and nodded, "Yes, please."


    Our lesson began like usual. I was listening intently, absorbing everything that Grimore was telling me. But at one point, my mind began to wander.


    If only I ate breakfast at the dining hall, I would have known he would be leaving. He won''t be back for a few days and we didn''t even get to talk.


    I looked behind me for a moment, watching the branches of the trees sway slowly.


    I just hope he''s safe.


    **********


    It was the afternoon and I slouched on the couch while looking outside. I sighed.


    "That''s your fifth sigh today, Your Majesty." Meylin commented.


    I huffed, "The day just felt slow today. I wonder why."


    "It''s because you''ve been couped up here all day, Your Majesty." Senha mused, pouring me a cup of tea.


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    I sat up straight and took the cup. I looked at it for a moment and before I could register my words, it already spilled out of my mouth.


    "I think I''d like a cup of coffee instead."


    "Coffee?" Meylin asked, surprised.


    "Ohh! His Majesty recently purchased some new beans! Do you want to try them, Your Majesty?" Senha exclaimed.


    I looked up at her and smiled, nodding, "I would love that. Thank you, Senha."


    "Wait for  moment, Your Majesty. I''ll go fix it up for you." She excitedly rushed out of my room. I chuckled and placed my tea cup on the table.


    "I did not see you as a coffee drinker." Meylin mused, fixing the tea set in front of me.


    "Is it that weird? I suddenly crave the bitterness and sweetness of it." I smiled sheepishly.


    "It is a little weird, but I think that... you''re craving His Majesty more than you expect." Meylin looked at me, smirking. She was obviously teasing me and I felt my cheeks heat up.


    "Oh. Hush, you. I never wanted His Majesty anyway." I denied, but I knew Meylin more than Typhone. She saw through my lie.


    "If you say so, Your Majesty. Remember, if you lie, you might get bitten by a snake." She teased, walking out my room with the tray of tea.


    I huffed and laid down on the couch. I looked up at the ceiling and thought of the mission Typhone was doing.


    He must be catching a monster again.


    I closed my eyes and thought of the ways I could talk to him once he gets back. I sighed. Then, my door opened and I immediately sat up, straightening my dress.


    "Here it is, Your Majesty. I brought you some coffee and Jareth also asked me to bring you some sweets." Senha walked in, setting the tray on the table. I eyed the variety of sweets laid out in front of me.


    I chuckled, "Jareth is spoiling me too much, I fear."


    "He was worried that since His Majesty is out for a mission, Your Majesty might be anxious or lonely." Senha smiled, pouring me a cup of coffee and handing it to me, "Here you go, Your Majesty. You can put the cream and sugar to suit your taste."


    I took the cup and added a little bit of cream and two cubes of sugar. I mixed it and once the sugar was melted, I took a sip. I hummed in delight as the bitterness and sweetness of the drink touched my tongue.


    It''s moments like this when I can''t help but think of how nice it would be if we could share a cup of coffee.


    "How is it, Your Majesty?" Senha asked.


    I smiled, nodding. I had a lingering look at my cup before looking back at Senha, "It''s really good. I taste a touch of berries on it."


    "If I remembered correctly, His Majesty said that he purchased it because he was thinking of you. He said he wanted you to enjoy coffee like how you enjoy tea." She said, smiling softly at me.


    "I think... it''s working. Me enjoying coffee, I mean." I chuckled and Senha did as well.


    "If Your Majesty feels lonely, I can accompany you to the garden." Senha suggested. I hummed in thought.


    "That would be nice. Thank you, Senha," Just then, an idea came to me and I smiled, "Actually, tomorrow, I want to visit the town again. After my lessons, of course."


    "Oh. That sounds lovely, Your Majesty. I shall inform Sir Leonis -- Oh! He''s probably with His Majesty on the mission." Senha hummed in thought and gasped.


    "I''ll tell Grimore. He would most definitely tag along." She mused happily and I giggled.


    "I''m pretty sure he''ll extend our lessons if he tags along." I teased, making Senha laugh.


    "I''ll make sure he doesn''t, Your Majesty! Just leave him to me!"


    I smiled, chuckling. I looked out of the window and noticed how the wind was blowing strongly.


    I hope he''s doing fine and not pushing himself too much.

 Chapter Twenty-Eight

    AVERY


    Watching as Meylin and Senha pick out my clothes for today, I could not help but feel excited about going to town again.


    "Your Majesty. Today is still a bit cold. Would you like to wear this one?" Senha asked, holding up a light pink dress. It had long sleeves and with white lace on the wrists. It looked warm and easy to move on. I smiled, nodding.


    "That looks lovely, Senha. I would like that one." I said softly.


    Meylin grabbed a cape, white with fur lining the edges, "You should wear this one, too, Your Majesty. Just in case it gets colder."


    "Yes. I should. Thank you, Meylin." I smiled at her.


    I got up from my seat and looked out the window. I sighed softly.


    I wonder how the mission is going.


    Senha and Meylin helped me get ready for today. I wore the dress and Meylin applied a tiny bit of color on my face since I looked pale, according to her. Just as Senha was doing my hair, there was a knock on my door. I glanced at it.


    "Would you please get the door for me, Meylin?" I said and Meylin did as told.


    She opened the door and revealed Grimore. He entered then bowed to me. I smiled at him.


    "Good morning, Your Majesty." He greeted.


    I smiled, "What is it, Grimore?"


    "I have prepared the carriage and... well, I have news about His Majesty." He said the last words quietly.


    "What news?" I asked, looking at him through the mirror and tried my best not to move since Senha was doing my hair.


    "He told me that... the mission became more difficult because the monster was hiding somewhere. They could not find it so... it might take long for them to return." Grimore said, sighing at the end.


    "I see. Well, do you mind if I send a reply?" I clasped my hands on my lap.


    "Of course, Your Majesty. I shall deliver it along with my own reply and report!" He said excitedly. I chuckled.


    "You''re all set, Your Majesty." Senha chimed. I looked at her work, tilting my head from side to side.


    "It''s so pretty, Senha. Thank you." I complimented her.


    "Shall we get going, Your Majesty?" Meylin asked. I looked at her with a smile and nodded.


    "Yes. Let us go."


    But before I could leave the room, I walked towards my vase of roses and sniffed the flowers. I caressed its petals gently.


    I hope Typhone gets home safe. He better hurry and give me more roses, too.


    **********


    As we made our way to town, I noticed that the snow was disappearing a little. I watched more people strolling and walking around the streets. I smiled, feeling more relaxed than I was before.


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    "Shall we visit other dessert shops, Your Majesty?" Senha asked, excited.


    "Senha, don''t spoil Her Majesty too much with sweets. It''s not good for her." Meylin reprimanded her gently.


    "Aww. But I want Her Majesty to taste other desserts." Senha huffed, pouting a little.


    I giggled, "Why not? We could always just look and taste a few."


    Meylin sighed and Senha cheered. I smiled. I looked out the window and suddenly, the carriage stopped.


    "Are we here already?" I asked. The door opened and Sir Richtan bowed. He extended his hand and I took it, getting out of the carriage.


    I inhaled the scent of the town which were a mix of freshly baked breads, flowers, food, and other things.


    "So... Grimore. Please, lead the way." I said.


    Grimore whipped his head to look at me. He gasped, "Me? Why... What... Me?"


    "Why not? I think it''s time for you to give me a tour, don''t you think?" I smiled brightly.


    "Fine. If it''s your wish, Your Majesty." He grumbled then cleared his throat. He excitedly stood straight and asked us to follow him.


    I giggled at his enthusiasm.


    I wonder where he''ll take us.


    **********


    "We''ve got a big library in the castle. Why did you have to bring Her Majesty here?!" Senha exclaimed at Grimore.


    I giggled as I placed a book back on the shelf. It was a big library, but not as big as the one back in the castle. The lights were bright despite the big windows being open. There was a second floor and had several desks and chairs in the middle. The first floor was mostly shelves and just a few desks and chairs.


    "It''s fine, Senha. I want to see how the library in town looks like." I said. Just as I looked away, I saw a new book displayed by at the middle of the room.


    I walked towards it and took the book, reading the title. The Dragon''s Queen. The title piqued my interest. Immediately, I walked to Meylin and looked at her excitedly.


    "I will buy this book." I said, determined.


    Meylin chuckled, "As you wish, Your Majesty."


    After a while, we went to a different shop. This time, it was a tea shop and according to Grimore, this was where he bought the coffee that Typhone requested.


    "So this shop is more... of the high quality products, right?" I scanned the shop. My eyes landed on a woman who was maybe 30 or 40 years old.


    "Good morning, Your Majesty. I am the store owner, Eldira Thorne. It''s an honor to have Her Majesty''s presence in my shop."


    "It''s a pleasure. Your shop is very nice and comforting." I mused, smiling.


    "Well, if it weren''t for my stubborn so here, the shop wouldn''t be this nice." The woman glared at Grimore.


    For a moment, all of us were stunned with the woman''s words. There was silence and before I could even utter a word, Senha reacted.


    "HUH?! This guy is your son?!" She exclaimed.


    I giggled sheepishly as Meylin covered Senha''s mouth. The woman, Eldira smiled brightly.


    "Yes. This is my stubborn and annoying son, Grimore." She proudly said.


    "I''m not stubborn! I just... really wanted to serve His Majesty." Grimore sulked.


    "That is the same thing. Instead of helping your father and I, you decided to work at the castle. I was so embarrassed when he got on his knees in front of His Majesty." Eldira rubbed her temple.


    "You didn''t have to tell Her Majesty that, Mom!" Grimore exclaimed in embarrassment.


    Eldira ignored him and gently guided me to the back of the shop, "Come, Your Majesty. I shall offer you some of the highest quality tea leaves in here."


    I followed her and chuckled at Grimore''s antics. Eldira opened the door and revealed an elegant room. Light brown walls, marble white floors, and gold marbled tables in front of white plush couches decorated the room.


    I gasped in awe at how elegant and comforting the room looked.


    I don''t regret bringing Grimore with me now.


    "Please, have a seat, Your Majesty. Let me prepare you some tea and snacks." Eldira said and I did. I sat down on the soft couch and gasped at the amount of comfort I felt.


    It''s so soft and smooth! I''d like to have one of these in my room.


    Eldira left while the rest of my company entered the room. Senha gasped and walked around the room. I looked around, noting a few paintings and flowers decoratng the room, bringing it more color and life.


    "The shop looked so small so I did not expect a room like this." Senha chimed. I nodded in agreement.


    "It''s a very lovely shop with an elegant room inside." I said.


    After a few minutes, Eldira and Grimore walked in the room, setting a few varieties of tea and snacks on the table. The tea set looked so sophisticated and adorable.


    "This is a very nice shop. I did not expect this room, though." I said, taking the teacup and sipping on my tea.


    "It was all thanks to my stubborn son for helping us upgrade it. His Majesty loves it here, too." She chuckled, handing me a cookie.


    I accepted and took a bite. It was sweet and perfect contrast to the slightly bitter taste of the tea.


    I wonder if Typhone would want to spend some time with me here sometime.

 Chapter Twenty-Nine

    TYPHONE


    "Your Majesty, would you like me to bring you some water?" Leonis asked, taking my sword from me.


    As I breathed heavily, I wiped the beads of sweat forming on my brows with the back of my hand. I glanced at him. He was disheveled, clothes slightly torn, bags under his eyes, and grim on his face and hair.


    I sighed softly, "You can ask one of the knights to do it."


    He bowed and walked away. Meanwhile, I walked towards the makeshift hideout behind a big tree. I sat on the ground and leaned on the tree, catching my breath.


    We''ve caught the monster. A big black lizard, male and looking for a mate.


    We were lucky to make it in one piece. During a monster''s mating season, males are more aggressive and triggered by little things. I glanced at the monster that was tied up and laying in front of me.


    I killed it. To prevent the illegal trade, I had to kill them. Monsters like these cannot be taken care of since they''ll always have the mind of a predator.


    "Here you are, Your Majesty." Leonis rushed towards me, a bottle of water in hand.


    He handed me the bottle and I accepted it. He sat down beside me and took off the heavy parts of his armor. I gulped down the water in one go and sighed in relief.


    "Calagon got frightened and hid on the mountain." Leonis said, starting a fire.


    "He hates lizards, but he''s not afraid to take on a big ass snake." I chuckled in amusement.


    "It''s hard to believe that he''s a famously rare red dragon known for their killing instinct," He sighed then looked back at me, "You spoiled him too much, Your Majesty."


    "Did I? I just felt bad for him and I was a child back then, alright?" I reasoned, glaring at him.


    "That''s the same thing." Leonis looked at the lizard, "It''ll take a few days to drag that lizard back to Lazarith. Don''t you think we should ask for more knights, Your Majesty?"


    "No. If the rest of the knights rush to our aid, no one will protect the kingdom. We can manage. I''ll force Calagon to drag it if I have to." I said firmly. Leonis nodded.


    I wonder how Avery is now.


    **********


    "By the way, Your Majesty, have you read the letter from Grimore?" Leonis asked. We were walking towards the river to catch some fish for Calagon.


    "I haven''t. It came with a pink envelope which I''m assuming is from Avery." I said, watching the sun set and the river flow endlessly.


    "Why don''t you go ahead and read it? I''ll go and catch Calagon''s dinner." Leonis said in an almost teasing tone.


    "Fine." I walked towards a tree and got out the letters from my coat pocket. I opened the white envelope first which was from Grimore.


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    Your Majesty,


    I am here to report that another sighting was seen. This time, crates were being unloaded from a merchant''s carriage and loaded to a royal''s carriage. Count Windermere reported to me three days after you left. That being said, he assumed that a royal is behind the illegal trade.


    On another note, Her Majesty is doing well with her lessons, but she''s been looking really lonely. She often stares at the vase of roses in her room. I think she misses you a lot, Your Majesty.


    Sincerely,


    Grimore


    I sighed as I read Grimore''s report. My head throbbed at his report for some reason. I made a mental note to send spies to the border. I took out Avery''s letter and gently opened the envelop, trying hard not to ruin it. I opened the letter and the scent of roses filled my nose.


    Fuck. I miss her so bad.


    Typhone,


    I am writing to ask how you''ve been. I asked Grimore to include this so that I could communicate with you. I''ve been doing well in Grimore''s class. One time, Senha had to kick down the door and drag Grimore out because we were studying for half a day. It was so funny.


    Anyway, I hope you''re not in danger or anything. Come home soon because I have something to tell you. Take care and be safe.


    Sincerely,


    Avery


    I had to calm myself down and hold myself back from inhaling the piece of paper in my hands. I secured the letters back to the envelopes before walking back to where Leonis was.


    "What did it say, Your Majesty?" He asked, reeling in for what felt like his 50th fish. I watched one bucket almost spill out and and another bucket was half full already.


    "Another illegal trade. I''ll take care of that when we get back." I said and whistled, calling for Calagon.


    In a few seconds, Calagon came screeching. His large wings fluttered as he landed on the other side of the river. He began walking towards Leonis and I, splashing the water around and scaring the fishes. Leonis clicked his tongue.


    I grinned mischievously at Leonis'' reaction. I turned to Calagon and narrowed my eyes at something on his back. Once he was beside me, I scratched his chin.


    "What do you have behind you, hm?" I asked, still scratching his chin.


    Calago turned his head to grab what was on his back. Curious, I decided to take a peek. My eyes widened when I saw a crate of eggs. Dragon eggs.


    "Are those..." Leonis mused.


    "Yes. These are dragon eggs and they''re... in a crate." I said in a hushed tone.


    "Do you think they were supposed to be shipped off?"


    "I think so." I said, taking the crate and examining the four eggs that sat coldly in the crate. I clicked my tongue, pissed.


    How dare they separate these eggs from the mother? Without heat no less.


    Leonis started feeding Calagon while I inspected the eggs for anything weird, crouching down on the ground. I assumed that these eggs were from a yellow dragon based off the small yellow spots around the egg. I sighed softly.


    "Good work bringing these babies to me, Calagon." I praised my dragon and he purred, shaking off as he finished his food. He walked up to me and nudged the eggs using his snout. I scoffed and chuckled, patting his head.


    "Yeah. These poor babies must be given heat immediately." I stood up, carrying the crate. I started walking back towards our base while Calagon and Leonis tagged along.


    I need to find out immediately who''s behind all this. This must be why the monsters are getting anxious.


    "Are we heading back to the kingdom, Your Majesty?" Leonis groaned.


    "Yes. Tell everyone to pack up and get ready to pull the lizard." I commanded. Leonis nodded and rushed to tell the knights.


    "I''m sorry, Calagon, but you have to drag that monster back halfway." I said. Calagon grunted, nudging me on the back. I chuckled.


    "I''ll give you a reward if you do. That is if you do it." I teased. This earned me another grunt from him. Calagon huffed.


    I smiled and bumped him with my shoulder. We arrived at the base and everyone was packed. As soon as my knights began dragging the lizard, I mounted Calagon with the crate on my hands. I took off my cape and covered the eggs with it.


    "Let''s get a move on, everyone! Back to Lazarith!" I commaned loudly. As soon as my men began walking back to the kingdom, I nudged Calagon with my heel and we flew off behind the knights. I made sure to stay behind my men just in case another monster attacked. It was a vulnerable situation after all because we had a dead monster on our hands.


    This will still take a few days. I better send Avery a letter on our next rest stop and keep these little ones warm.

 Chapter Thirty

    TYPHONE


    It''s been 2 days and we haven''t reached the kingdom yet. The lizard was a hassle to drag and I could not force Calagon to drag it. Not yet, at least.


    It was night. My knights and I set camp and kept warm. I sat in front of a fire, a stick of grilled fish on my hand. I played with it between my thumb and forefinger, not noticing Calagon eyeing it.


    "You can''t have it. It''s His Majesty''s share." I heard Leonis said in a cold tone. I turned to my side and noticed Calagon and Leonis bickering.


    This is also one rare expression of Leonis. That is... only when he''s arguing with Calagon.


    "Knock it off, you two. What are you even fighting about?" I chuckled, shaking my head.


    "This guy is eyeing your share and I''m not going to allow it after I fed him a huge ass boar." Leonis hissed, glaring at Calagon.


    Calagon breathed out of his nose in return, huffing at Leonis. I watched in amusement as the two glared down at each other. I decided to tease them.


    "Why don''t you ride Calagon tomorrow, Leonis? I shall take your horse." I smirked. Both Calagon and Leonis turned to me in disbelief.


    Leonis sighed, "I''d rather walk than ride this spoiled dragon."


    Calagon growled, flapping his wings and hitting Leonis with the edges. Pissed, Leonis took out his wooden stick and ran after Calagon. I chucked, amused by how those two got along so well despite being in disagreement all time.


    I wonder if Calagon would warm up to Avery like this.


    I looked back at the fire and hoped that my letter reached the kingdom immediately. I made sure that the dragon I called over was one of my messanger ones. Unlike other kingdoms, I made sure that my dragons were able to carry out duties like regular messenger birds because to me, animals are fragile.


    "Seriously, Your Majesty. I suggest you stop spoiling your dragon too much." Leonis breathed heavily, sitting down beside me. Calagon huffed and settled on my other side. I glanced at my dragon and grinned.


    "Why? I care about him a lot and I would kill for Calagon." As I said those words, I took my fish out of the stick and fed it to Calagon. When I looked at Leonis, his eyes were narrowed at me, glaring.


    "Yeah. Alright. I''m not going to stop you anymore, Your Majesty." He sighed, giving up on lecturing me. I chuckled.


    There was silence after. The knights took turns guarding the lizard. I stared into the flames and sighed softly. My mind was filled with the illegal trade and Avery.


    Avery kept popping in my head ever since I got her letter. I want to go home and see her now.


    **********


    I looked at the horizon and relief washed over me. The castle was in plain sight. I laid onto Calagon''s back in relief.


    "We''re finally home, little ones. I''ll make sure you''re warm and comfortable." I mumbled to the eggs sitting in front of me.


    Once Calagon landed, I could hear Grimore yelling. He was practically barking orders that I could not comprehend. With a hazy gaze, I could barely see Avery''s figure rushing towards me.


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    "Your... Majesty!"


    "Ave... ry..." I whispered softly, reaching out to cup her cheek, but I already passed out.


    What a pathetic way to greet my wife.


    I don''t know how long I slept for, but I woke up to Grimore ordering the servants here and there. I heard Senha''s voice as well. I slowly opened my eyes, blinking away the sleep. I turned to my side and was surprised to see Avery sitting beside my bed.


    "Your Majesty. You''re awake." She sighed in relief.


    "His Majesty is awake! Quickly! Call for the royal physician!" Grimore screamed. Senha punched his shoulder.


    "Quiet! You''re shouting too much. His Majesty just woke up!"


    "Both of you. Be quiet." Leonis entered the room looking more decent and clean.


    "Sorry." Both Senha and Grimore whispered.


    Avery shook her head and smiled at them. Then, she looked at me, still smiling.


    "How are you feeling?" She asked, leaning in slightly.


    "A little sore and my throat is dry." I said in a hoarse, deep voice. I coughed and Avery was quick to hand me a glass of water.


    "Have some water first." She said softly.


    I drank the water in one gulp. Once I finished the glass of water, Avery set it back down on my bedside table. Moments later, the royal physician came and checked up on me.


    "How is he?" Avery asked once the physician finished up.


    "He''s already doing great, Your Majesty. His Majesty just passed out due to stress and fatigue. I recommend you to rest for a couple of days, Your Majesty." The physician stated, packing up his things.


    "Alright." I said, closing my eyes.


    "I mean it, Your Majesty. You need to rest." The physician said and I opened one eye, sighing.


    "Fine." I huffed.


    The physician left followed by Leonis, Senha, and Grimore which meant that Avery and I were alone in my room. It was silent and none of us were talking. I cleared my throat.


    "So... how have you been, princess?" I asked, slightly hesitant.


    "I''m... I''m good. I''ve been studying a lot with... Grimore so... yeah." She said in a soft voice. There was silence again.


    "So--"


    "So--"


    Avery and I looked at each other, surprised that we spoke at the same time. We looked away and I waited for her to speak again, but she didn''t so I decided to try again.


    "About the--"


    "About the--"


    She blinked at me and then bursted into a fit of giggles. I chuckled and draped an arm on my eyes.


    "Alright, princess. You can go first." I said, grinning. She smiled and looked down at her lap, fidgeting with her fingers.


    "About the night before you left for your mission..." She paused, making me slightly nervous.


    "I... I''m sorry. I didn''t know what I saying and... I was drunk and... I''m just... I''m so sorry." She whispered soflty. She looked up at me through her lashes as if she was embarrassed.


    "No. Princess, I should be the one apologizing. I didn''t hear you out or stop you from drinking." I sighed softly.


    "No. It''s not... It''s not your fault, alright? You have nothing to apologize for."


    I took her hand and placed a soft gentle kiss on her knuckles. I grinned, watching her face turn red.


    Adorable. My wife is simply adorable.


    "I''m home, dear wife." I teased, smirking.


    Her eyes slowly widened and cheeks turned even redder. She smiled softly."Weclome home, dear husband."


    Fuck. I want to kiss her so bad.


    "So... what kind of monster did you catch this time?" She cleared her throat, snapping me out of my thoughts.


    "Well, it was a lizard. I would let you see it if I could, but it looked horrible." I slowly sat up, leaning back on the headboard of my bed.


    "Oh. How... bad was it?"


    "It... uhm... had a stab on the back and at the chest." I said, trying not sound pained or hurt. My body was throbbing and all my limbs were trembling.


    She did not talk and just nodded. She looked disappointed as if she really wanted to see the lizard. I thought of something else.


    "Calagon also... uhm... found some dragon eggs. They were placed in a crate." I said and this changed her whole mood. Her eyes lit up and her mouth slightly hung open.


    "Dragon eggs? But... why were they in a crate?"


    "I assumed that they were part of the illegal trade happening by the border when Calagon saw them and decided to save them." I hissed. I was still mad at the thought of people trying to sell monsters and dragon eggs.


    No. It''s not just dragon eggs. They''re selling dragons as well.


    "You''re... going to keep them, right? The eggs... I mean." She pleaded. I chuckled, placing a gentle hand on top of her head.


    "Of course, princess. I''ll save them." I smiled.


    If I could bring you to where I kept my dragons, I would''ve brought you already. The problem is... I want them to know you''re mine before that happens.