Princess of Stone by Victoria Larque

Author:Victoria Larque
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: epic fantasy, epic fantasy books, epic fantasy novels, epic fantasy in books, epic fantasy romance, fantasy romance books, epic fantasy prejudice friendship hope magic hope magic war, epic fantasy books for adults
Publisher: Butterdragons Publishing
Published: 2022-08-23T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Twelve

Rayla

I lied. I knew exactly what I felt and I knew it would tear me apart to see her with another, no matter how planned and clinical it would be. I should call on one of my brethren to protect her and head back to Xilum. To protect my stupid, infatuated heart.

A dry huff escaped me as I traversed the castle, asking around if anyone had seen Stefan. As if I could leave her, as if I ever wanted to. I would stay at her side as long as she would have me, no matter who she chose to be with, or what it would do to me.

I found the steward in the entrance hall, busy conversing with one of the senate, a man I didn’t know. He had been quiet during the judgement and even now, seemed soft-spoken. He had honest eyes though.

“Dovani,” Stefan said upon seeing me. “Is everything in order? How is Princess Fabienne doing?”

“She is ready to see you,” I said with a short bow.

“Right. We will pick this up at a later time, Senator Ferton.”

Ferton and his honest eyes stayed beneath the painting of King Edrick while I brought Stefan back to Eliza. She was still alone in her parents’ study, standing at the window the same way as I left her. I wasn’t comfortable leaving her alone with someone, but I waited outside, spreading out my senses to listen whether or not the conversation would turn south. I didn’t think it would, but I was prepared, nonetheless.

“Your Highness, I wanted to tell you how deeply I regret what happened to your family,” Stefan said.

“Thank you, Stefan. What will be done about it?”

“Pardon?”

“I want to know who did it and why. I want the murderers of my family brought before me. What will be done to achieve that?”

“Your Highness, I can mobilize a troupe of capable men who will travel to Leozar and look into it. But I must tell you, I have little hope of success.”

“Why?” Eliza snapped.

“Because by now, the trail will have gone cold. I-I will send them nonetheless, of course, Your Highness.”

I just knew she had unpacked that impressive glare of hers by the sound of his voice.

“Capable troupe... I’d rather...” Eliza cleared her throat. “Leave it, Stefan, you are right. I have a different plan. Regarding the future, I loath to think about it, but we must address it. I have decided to rule and you will teach me everything I need to know to do so.”

“As you wish, Your Highness. But there is the matter of–”

“Me not being married. I know. You will write a letter to me, for the Belents. They have the bodies of my family in Sif?”

“I believe so, Your Highness.” A chair slid back and creaked beneath weight. “What do you want me to write?”

“I need a husband. Apparently. And Leozar was my father’s choice for an alliance. The family is large enough, if they can spare a Prince, he’ll do.”

It was silent for a few heartbeats.

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