Alien Beast's Fated Mate: Science Fiction Adventure Romance (Valti Fated Mates Book 1) by Elin Wyn

Author:Elin Wyn [Wyn, Elin]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2023-12-20T16:00:00+00:00

LITA

The royal supper proved to be an endless parade of exotic delicacies I could not begin to identify. Cuts of meat from strange beasts, enormous fowl stuffed and sauced, vegetables dressed in pungent spices—every dish overwhelmed my senses.

We dined at the high table on the raised dais. Below us, long tables filled the great hall as an array of subjects feasted and reveled. I felt utterly adrift amidst the grandeur.

At one end of the high table, Queen Kiha murmured in intimate conversation with the imposing general seated beside her, their heads bent close together. At the far end, King Sarl presided over the festivities, observing all with a weary eye.

Drax leaned over to speak quietly with the general around Kiha's disregarding form. “What news since last I was at court, Krall?”

The broad, bearded soldier only glanced at the returned prince. “More brigand raids plague villages to the south. The Wandering Nation is suspect, according to my queen’s sources.”

Tharon gave an exaggerated yawn. “Always the conspiracy theories about those pitiful beggars with you, Mother.” He cocked a sardonic brow at Drax. “Tell me, did you come across any of these notorious brigands on your travels, brother?”

Under the table, I squeezed Drax's tense fingers in warning as I replied in his stead. “As it happens, we did encounter some ruffians. But they soon regretted accosting us.”

Krall’s mouth twisted in a patronizing smile. “Truly? Do tell us more of this daring adventure.”

Drax's jaw clenched, but he retained a calm tone. “In truth, the confrontation proved beneath notice. Still, a sword serves well on the road, no matter its quality.” His hand drifted meaningfully to the worn hilt at his hip.

“That old relic?” Tharon laughed. “No, once you rejoin court you shall have a proper blade forged, brother. We'll train together—even your giant’s frame may benefit from some refinement.”

“I carry steel for function, not fashion,” Drax replied gruffly. “But come, let's speak of more pleasant matters.”

At that moment, King Sarl looked up from his preoccupied brooding. “A new sword would lend you a more princely aspect. I would like to see you armed fittingly.”

Before Drax could reply, Kiha made a scornful noise. “I'll not have drunken brawls in my hall. No swords but for the guard.”

“Oh come, where is the trust?” Tharon cajoled her. “Would you disarm your own princes, Mother?”

The general rumbled his disagreement as well. “Unwise to forbid self-defense, my queen. What do you think, little one?”

All eyes turned to me. I shifted self-consciously. “In my experience, better to keep a weapon and not need it than to face peril unarmed.” My hand went reflexively to the small dagger hidden in my bodice—likely useless against brigands, but reassuring.

King Sarl barked an approving laugh. “Well said, child! The lady has the right of it.”

Kiha toyed with a jewel at her throat, staring at me pensively. “Perhaps so. We shall discuss such matters at greater length tomorrow over tea, you and I.” Her smile held no warmth. “I find myself quite fascinated by our exotic guest.

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