Agneyastra gingerly opens her eyes to the soft glow of dawn filtering through her bedroom window. As she stretches and sits up, her gaze falls upon a piece of paper resting on her desk. She walks over and reads the note.
“Dear Agneyastra,” it begins, the words etched with an unmistakable tenderness. “I hope the archivist has successfully delivered my gift to you. It took ten long years to create, hence the delay. This necklace was custom-made just for you. And it will be the final gift I bestow upon you. Happy 17th birthday.”
Agneyastra''s breath catches in her throat as she reads the words “always your regretful Prince Marius” at the end of the note.
Agneyastra carefully placed the ornate gift box in her closet amongst the collection of treasures and trinkets she had save from Marius. Closing the closet door, she gazed at herself in the mirror, taking in the sight of her reflection. Her dainty figure was adorned in a beautifully fitted dress, its fabric a vibrant hue that contrasted against her delicate complexion.
Her hair, usually flowing freely, was now elegantly tied up in a bow, adding a touch of charm to her already enchanting appearance. While she admired her reflection, a soft yet insistent knock echoed through her bedroom door. Without hesitation, she turned towards the sound and allowed Ramil to enter.
As he stepped into the room, a hush fell upon him, for he was captivated by Agneyastra''s ethereal beauty. Words escaped him, his gaze fixed upon her enchanting form. The dress hugged her curves with such grace, accentuating her every movement. It was as if she had stepped out of a dream, a vision of loveliness that left him spellbound.
Breaking the silence, Agneyastra greeted him with a gentle smile, her voice soft and melodious. “Good morning, Ramil.” With graceful strides, she moved about the room, gathering her belongings and placing them meticulously into her backpack.
Ramil trailed behind her, still attempting to find his voice amidst the overwhelming admiration he held for her. Finally managing to find his words, he quipped, “Did they change the dress code overnight?”
Agneyastra''s laughter danced in the air, a melodic sound that seemed to brighten the room. “Technically, I finished all my training last year. But since I am still considered too young to graduate, I have been given the honor of being a permanent teacher''s assistant for this year and the next.” She paused, a fondness shining in her eyes. “Sinai, gifted me this dress last week for my birthday. He has an impeccable taste, don''t you think?”
Ramil''s eyes traversed the room until they landed on the note, its edges neatly aligned on Agneyastra''s desk. His curiosity mingled with a hint of mischief as he approached it, his steps deliberate and purposeful. With a quick flick of his wrist, he snatched it up, the paper crackling slightly under his touch.
“It''s not the only gift you received,” Ramil said, his voice laced with an insinuation. “You know he is married, and his wife is carrying his child now.”
Agneyastra''s reaction was subtle but swift. As she took the note from Ramil''s outstretched hand, she slid it carefully into the depths of her desk drawer. Her dark eyes met his, one eyebrow raised in a mixture of curiosity and suspicion. “Why,” she asked, her tone guarded, “do you know so much about Prince Marius?”
Ramil''s lips curled into a knowing smile, savoring the tension that hung between them. “It''s good to know one''s enemy,” he replied, his voice unbearably smug.
Agneyastra''s backpack hung from the back of her chair, its straps beckoning her to seize the opportunity for escape. As she effortlessly swung it onto her shoulders, her voice dripped with a fusion of defiance and curiosity. “Why?” she probed, her gaze defiantly locked with Ramil''s. “Did you come in here?”
Before Ramil could respond, Sinai walked by the open door, his footsteps echoing through the corridor. With wide eyes, he caught a glimpse of Agneyastra in all her ethereal glory. His heart fluttered with awe and admiration as he rushed in between Ramil and Agneyastra, unable to contain his excitement.
Sinai''s voice trembled with genuine admiration as he said, “You look, so amazing, sissy.” He embraced Agneyastra, his small arms encircling her in a warm and affectionate hug.
Slightly taken aback, Ramil pushed himself in between them, his face etched with a mix of protectiveness and confusion. His voice carried a tinge of frustration as he said, “She is not your sister, Sinai.” With a troubled expression, Ramil swiftly exited Agneyastra''s bedroom.
Meanwhile, Agneyastra stepped out of her bedroom, Sinai faithfully beside her. They strolled through the hallway, their footsteps soft and gentle. As they made their way, they encountered Emathion, a fellow resident of their fantastical world. Agneyastra''s voice took on a soothing tone as she spoke, her words laced with genuine support. Sincere and caring, Agneyastra said, “Good luck with your healers training today.”
Emathion''s eyes sparkled with gratitude as he replied, “Thank you.”
As Agneyastra, Sinai, and Emathion descended the ornate staircase, their footsteps echoed through the grand foyer of their home. Unbeknownst to the three, Marudeva and Tyson stood at the foot of the stairs, concern etched upon their faces.
“Ramil, are you okay?” Marudeva''s voice held a mixture of worry and fatherly affection. His eyes searched Ramil''s face for any sign of distress.
Ramil''s gaze momentarily met Agneyastra''s vibrant emerald eyes, causing a flicker of hesitation in his response. His voice, though steady, carried a hint of a hidden truth. “I am fine. I cannot afford to be late on my first day of Dweller Warrior training.” He tried to mask the emotion that danced in his eyes. Marudeva exchanged a knowing look with Tyson, their eyes lingering on the glimmer of Ramil’s connection to Agneyastra.
With a nod of assurance, Ramil broke free from his father''s gaze and swiftly made his way towards the door. As Ramil stepped out into the world beyond.
Agneyastra''s footsteps echoed through the grand hall as she approached Tyson who stood tall and regal. With a warm smile, she embraced him, relieved to see that he was no longer hiding himself away. “I am glad you are not hiding yourself from me anymore, Uncle,” she murmured, the words filled with genuine affection.
Turning to Marudeva Agneyastra extended her arms to hug him as well. “Good morning, father,” she greeted, a sense of anticipation shimmering in her eyes.
Tyson''s smile remained, but a hint of concern flickered in his gaze. “I fear, my dear, that as you age further into womanhood, your radiant presence will draw even more attention. In most kingdoms, young women of your age are presented with titles and made available for courting. But, as I am not yet the King, I am unable to grant you such a title.”
Agneyastra nodded understandingly, her golden curls cascading down her shoulders. “That is okay,” she responded softly. “I am still able to date others my age.”
Tyson''s voice grew tender as he offered his guidance. “Take heed, my dear. While I advise caution, I understand the desires of your heart. But remember, until you have to think of others and more responsibilities weigh upon your shoulders, focus on yourself. Do not let the burden of expectations dim the light within you.”
Agneyastra''s gaze held a mix of gratitude and determination. “I understand, and I thank you,” she replied, her voice steady.
Together, Agneyastra and Sinai made their way towards the front door, the anticipation growing with each step. Tyson and Marudeva observed their departure, their eyes reflecting a pride that words could not fully capture.
As the young girl with a destiny walked down the road, her spirit shone like a brilliant sun illuminating the path before her. Marudeva turned to Tyson, his voice soft but filled with awe. “I don''t think her father and mother realized the masterpiece they created,” he murmured.
***
The early morning sun cast a warm golden glow over the training building as Ramil hurriedly entered, joining the stream of new recruits. Excitement and anticipation buzzed in the air as they made their way to the training arena, lining up in front of the imposing figures of General Aurgelmir and General Saichi.
Their commanding presence demanded attention, and as Aurgelmir spoke, his deep voice resonated with authority. “Welcome, new recruits,” he boomed, his eyes scanning the crowd. “General Saichi and I will train you day and night, pushing you past your limits. Only we will determine when you are ready to progress to the next level. And let me make this clear - not all of you will make it past the first day.”
Suddenly, Dweller warriors wearing their magnificent glass armor entered, cartons full of gleaming weapons in their hands. The clattering of metal against the ground echoed through the vast arena. With a sharp gaze, Saichi addressed the recruits. “Your first step,” he declared, his voice steady, “is to select your weapon.”
With an almost careless toss, the warriors flung the weapons onto the ground, causing a cacophony of metallic clinks and thuds. The recruits'' eyes widened as they took in the array of weapons before them, each one a symbol of power and strength. But then Saichi delivered an unexpected blow. “There are not enough weapons for all of you,” he announced, his tone unforgiving. “Those without a weapon will be dismissed from becoming a Warrior. Now, make your choice.”
Ramil and the other recruits scramble to seize a weapon, the air thick with Dweller glass glinting in the sun. Fists collide, desperate gasps echo, and the room pulses with frenzied energy. Ramil''s trained instincts kick in; with a swift strike, he disarms a man, claiming the sword for himself.
Stepping aside, Ramil watches as the chaos unfolds before him. The clash of bodies and the clatter of steel fill the air, forming a chaotic symphony that resonates deep within him. As the dust settles, the recruits who remain weaponless cast angry and disappointed glances, their dreams of valor and glory temporarily shattered.
As the day wore on, Ramil''s skills became evident to all. With each strike against the training dummy, he effortlessly surpassed his fellow recruits, leaving them in the shadows of his mastery. Unbeknownst to him, the eyes of a Dweller Warrior trainer were fixated on his every move.
Observing the grace and precision with which Ramil executed his techniques, the trainer couldn''t help but be impressed. She leaned in and whispered to a soldier standing beside her, pointing out the fluidity of his strikes and the strength in his stance. Ramil, ever aware of his surroundings, noticed her gaze and approached her, his steps deliberate and confident.
Reaching for his water bottle with a deliberate slowness, Ramil took a sip before pouring the remaining liquid over his glistening chest. The scorching sun beat down upon him, casting a golden glow on his muscular frame. The trainer could not help but be captivated by his display of self-assuredness and his understanding of his own prowess.
Breaking the silence, the warrior spoke, her voice a mix of admiration and amusement, “You are quite impressive today, Ramil.”
Leaning in closer, a smirk played at the corner of Ramil''s lips, as he replied, “I am impressive at everything I do.”
The trainer couldn''t help but be amused by his arrogance, letting out a warm laugh. “Aren''t you full of it,” she retorted playfully.
Unfazed by her comment, Ramil responded with conviction, “No, practice every day makes me skilled.”
The warrior''s smile faded slightly, her gaze becoming more intense. “I can''t wait to see more,” she stated, her voice tinged with anticipation. With those words, she turned away, leaving Ramil to his training, eager to witness the full extent of his abilities.
Ramil''s intense training regimen consumed his every moment, his unwavering determination evident in every swing of his sword. As he practiced alongside new female recruits and seasoned warriors, the air crackled with anticipation. The sound of steel clashing against steel resonated throughout the training ground, a symphony of skill and dedication.
But amidst the chaos, Ramil''s focus remained unyielding. He pushed himself harder, honing his technique, and pushing his physical limits. Beads of sweat glistened on his brow as he exerted himself, his muscles straining with every movement.
Suddenly, Ramil paused, his sword held firmly in his grip. Leaning against the cool stone wall, he took a moment to catch his breath. It was then that a female recruit, equal parts admiration and respect, approached him. Her eyes glittered with a combination of awe and gratitude.This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.
“You have done very well,” she spoke softly.
He glanced at her, his breath still ragged. The weight of his purpose pressed heavily upon him as he locked eyes with his fellow warrior. “I will do whatever it takes to get on that battlefield and start killing those Water Kingdom Soldiers,” Ramil answered.
Midday cast a brilliant glow upon the training grounds, illuminating Ramil as he continued to hone his skills with the new Warriors. His movements were strong and fluid, a testament to his dedication to the craft. However, his focus was abruptly shattered when he spotted Agneyastra and Marudeva, engaged in a conversation with Aurgelmir, a figure of immense power and wisdom. Agneyastra, her face adorned with a warm smile, playfully swung a small basket in her hand.
Faster than he could react, one of Ramil''s fellow recruits knocked him to the ground. Sensing the commotion, Agneyastra''s gaze swiftly shifted towards Ramil. Her eyes filled with concern and determination, she rushed over to Ramil''s side.
As Ramil struggled to regain his footing, he found himself standing amidst a cluster of his fellow recruits. To his dismay, he noticed that some of his male counterparts were casting longing glances in Agneyastra''s direction, their desires thinly veiled. Frustrated by their impure thoughts and sensing a turbulent storm brewing within him, Ramil''s voice erupted in a sharp accusation, “Why are you here? What do you want?”
Agneyastra''s response was unexpected yet tender. She extended the small basket, pressing it into Ramil''s chest with care. Her voice, as soft as a whispering breeze, carried the weight of concern, “You forgot your lunch this morning.” Her eyes conveyed a touch of disappointment.
Ramil''s initial anger faltered, the force of it dissipating like the morning fog. Gratefulness and humility washed over him, and he mustered a simple but sincere, “Thank you.” He watched in silence as Agneyastra gracefully moved away, her every step a captivating dance.
Before Ramil had a chance to savor the moment, one of his fellow recruits interjected with a question that echoed through the air, “Is she spoken for?” The words hung in the tense atmosphere, awaiting a response. However, Ramil''s fury was quick to resurface. Without hesitation, he propelled his comrade into the unforgiving ground, a subtle warning etched in his actions.
***
As the sun reached its zenith, casting its golden glow upon the Earth Kingdom castle, a sense of urgency filled the air. Moriko, adorned in her regal attire, paced anxiously in front of her ornate bedroom mirror. Her reflection stared back at her, a reflection of determination and resolve. “I am ready,” she muttered under her breath, the words echoing in the room.
With purposeful strides, Moriko left the confines of her lavish room, traversing the seemingly endless hallways that led to the castle''s grand entrance. The weight of her responsibility pressed upon her shoulders, propelling her forward with each determined step. The massive wooden doors of the castle swung open, revealing two formidable guards, clad in the emblematic armor of the Fire Kingdom.
Acknowledging Moriko''s presence, the guards dutifully opened the entrance to the adjacent smaller castle. Moriko wasted no time, her determination evident in her swift movements. Through the threshold she entered, her eyes set on a certain office within.
A soldier, standing guard outside, recognized her presence and opened the door with a respectful nod. And there, within the confines of that office, a tender scene unfolded. Yeongi and Tyson were locked in a heartfelt embrace, their lips meeting in a gentle kiss. Moriko''s entrance interrupted the intimate moment, but instead of surprise or resentment, she spoke words of admiration.
“You are both beautiful together,” Moriko uttered, her voice filled with a mix of awe and affection.
Moriko''s presence interrupted the moment, and Tyson swiftly straightened, while Yeongi instinctively took a step back. It was clear that Moriko''s unexpected arrival had caught them off guard. Trying to regain composure, Tyson asked, “Moriko, are we late for lunch?”
Moriko approached the desk, her gaze fixed on her parents. With a voice filled with determination and a hint of uncertainty, she spoke, “I am 18 years old, and I am ready to be anointed as the Queen of the Earth Kingdom.”
Yeongi''s face lit up with a proud smile, her hands clapping together in delight. She addressed Tyson, “Tyson, our little girl has grown up too fast.”
Tyson, acknowledging Moriko''s proclamation, promised, “I will speak with the archivists, and we will have all the necessary arrangements made. But what about Emathion?”
Moriko''s voice softened as she replied, “Emathion has just begun his healing classes.”
Tyson, aware of the traditions and customs of their kingdom, stated matter-of-factly, “Once you become Queen, Emathion will serve as your gentleman in waiting. It is customary for them to reside in the same kingdom.”
Moriko frowned, concern evident in her eyes. “That seems too harsh, forcing him to leave his family behind.”
Yeongi, always supportive of her daughter''s decisions, interjected, “Fine, we will do as you wish. Moriko is still young, and that part can come later. What matters is that she is ready to take full control of her Kingdom.”
As Moriko stood in the cavernous cathedral of Stone City, bathed in the golden sunlight streaming through stained glass windows, a hushed silence filled the room. The archivists, Emathion, Agneyastra, and a host of others looked on with eager anticipation.
With grace and poise, Moriko walked forward, her heart pounding in her chest. The weight of destiny bore down upon her shoulders as she approached the archivist who held the earthy crown. The delicate tiara shimmered in the flickering candlelight, adorned with precious gemstones that sparkled like stars in the night sky.
As the archivist gently placed the crown upon Moriko''s head, a palpable energy coursed through the room. Whispers of awe and admiration filled the air, mingling with the scent of incense that permeated the sacred space. Emathion and Agneyastra, stood by her side.
The archivist raised his hand high, his voice resonating with reverence and solemnity. “May the Earth Queen have a long and prosperous reign,” he proclaimed, his words echoing off the grand stone pillars that adorned the cathedral. The room erupted into applause, a symphony of approval and adulation for the newly anointed ruler.
Moriko''s heart swelled with a mix of gratitude and apprehension. She knew that, from this moment forward, her life would be forever changed. The weight of responsibility settled upon her like a crown, reminding her of the challenges that lay ahead.
As she stepped forward to address the gathered crowd, her voice rang out with conviction. “To the Earth Kingdom, I vow to lead with compassion, strength, and wisdom,” she proclaimed, her words echoing through the cavernous space. “Together, we shall forge a future defined by harmony, prosperity, and justice.”
As Moriko stood in the center of the room, the crowd erupted into thunderous applause. Emathion and Agneyastra broke free from the crowd and rushed over to embrace Moriko, their faces beaming with joy. Alyona, always the graceful presence, approached Moriko with a gentle smile and a warm greeting. Moriko''s heart swelled with gratitude and love for these loyal friends who had stood by her side through thick and thin.
But amidst the celebration, Moriko''s eyes searched for one person in particular. Suddenly, Jeremy emerged from the crowd, looking taller and handsomer than ever in his sleek suit and glasses. Moriko couldn''t help but smile. “I know you have been very busy, Jeremy,” she said, her voice filled with warmth. “I am glad you came.”
Jeremy nodded, his eyes flickering with a mix of regret and longing. “I am sorry, I couldn''t bring Lee,” he murmured, his voice laced with apology. “She has testing at school.”
Moriko''s smile widened as she gently pushed Agneyastra closer to Jeremy. “Did you notice Agneyastra?” she asked, her voice teasing. “How has your messaging been going with her? I gave her an Earth messaging cloth so you both could communicate with each other.”
Jeremy''s eyes shifted between Moriko and Agneyastra, a mixture of surprise and curiosity in his gaze. “Her letter was lovely,” he replied, his voice tinged with disbelief. “That was it. I didn''t know she was trying to message me. Is this true, Agneyastra? It''s rare that anyone is interested in me.”
Agneyastra''s lips parted as she opened her mouth to speak, but the words seemed to evade her. Instead, she found herself lost in Jeremy''s gaze, her heart pounding in her chest. It was in that moment that she realized the depth of her feelings for him, a realization that left her both exhilarated and paralyzed.
Sensing Agneyastra''s silence, Moriko smoothly transitioned the conversation. “How is Lee?” she asked, her voice filled with genuine concern.
Jeremy''s eyes softened as he replied, “She''s doing well, just a bit stressed with all the testing. But I''ve been helping her study, and she''s been doing great. I''m proud of her.”
Agneyastra''s gaze falls upon the ground, her eyes troubled and distant, as Moriko''s voice breaks through the silence. “Jeremy, you must come again,” she says softly.
Jeremy''s response is tinged with regret as he replies, “I must go. It was nice to escape, if only for a brief moment. I don''t want to keep Lee waiting, she''ll start to worry.” Closing the distance between them and Agneyastra, Jeremy adds with a touch of sadness, “Perhaps, one day, you will find it within yourself to have a real conversation with me.” With those words hanging in the air, he turns away, his departure swiftly guided by Yeongi.
Moriko watches Agneyastra''s expression, her eyes fixed on Jeremy as he retreats. A gentle tug on Agneyastra''s arm brings her back to the present. Moriko''s voice is laced with concern and curiosity as she speaks, “I''ve never seen you so lost for words before.”
Agneyastra offers Moriko a small smile, her eyes reflecting a mix of emotions. “Indeed, you are right. Only he has that effect on me. How does it feel to bear the weight of a crown, to be a Queen?”
Moriko returns Agneyastra''s smile, but her gaze drifts momentarily to where Emathion engages in conversation with Tyson. There is a flicker of determination in her eyes as she speaks, her voice filled with quiet resolve, “My goals are nearly within reach. Soon, I shall see them realized.”
***
Late at night, in the Water Kingdom, Marius was sleeping soundly in his grand bed, a scene of tranquility amidst the whispers of the night. The moon cast a gentle glow through the window, dancing upon the rippling waves that adorned the room''s walls. Unbeknownst to him, the serenity of his slumber would soon be disrupted.
The door to his chamber swung open with a barely audible creak, revealing a figure silhouetted against the soft moonlight. It was Brooke, she moved soundlessly, her steps as light as a feather, as she made her way towards Marius''s bedside.
Brooke watched him sleep for a moment. His face, peaceful and untroubled, held a certain allure that intoxicated her. Unable to resist any longer, she extended a trembling hand and gently caressed his cheek, her touch as soft as a whisper.
Suddenly, Marius stirred, awakening from his slumber. Confusion clouded his eyes as he took in the figure beside him, the realization dawning upon him that he was bereft of his garments. He instinctively pulled away from Brooke''s embrace, creating a chasm between them.
Barely concealing his curiosity and frustration, Marius questioned Brooke, his voice laced with a blend of weariness and concern. “Why are you in my room?”
Brooke rose from the bed slowly, her eyes never breaking contact with Marius''s. She took a step closer, her body radiating both desire and anguish. The moonlight kissed his skin, highlighting the tension that danced beneath the surface. With a trembling voice, she confessed, “I do love him, but I enjoy lying with you more.”
Marius''s expression shifted from confusion to a mix of disdain and indignation. He moved with determination, reaching for his rope and hastily clothing himself. His actions spoke of a man seeking distance, searching for a barrier between them. As he secured his attire, Marius''s voice trembled with a tinge of anger and resignation. “Am I supposed to be flattered? You are with child; there is no reason for us to be intimate.”
Brooke, her eyes burning with longing, took hesitant steps closer to Marius. Her voice, a gentle whisper, trembled with a mixture of uncertainty and yearning. “What if we send him away?” she breathed, her words hanging in the air. “I can be with you. I miss your touch, the coolness of your skin. I was wrong, Marius. I believe I can love you.”
Marius, his mind restless, paced back and forth across the room, his footsteps echoing softly. “Me giving you pleasure, is not love,” he mused, his voice tinged with sadness. “What if my mind and heart are forever bound to another? What if I am unable to love again?”
In that moment, Brooke reached out to Marius, her touch a lifeline amidst the currents of uncertainty. She stilled him, her fingers brushing against his arm, as she attempted to convey the depth of her emotions. “Unlike other couples, we have never lied about our feelings,” she declared, her voice filled with conviction. “And that, my love, is good enough for me. For I am addicted to your touch, your presence.”
Moved by her words, Marius found himself drawn towards her, their lips crashing together in a fierce, passionate kiss. In that intoxicating moment, Brooke reaches underneath his robe, as she gently caresses him, then she whispered in Marius''s ear, her voice a seductive melody. “I want you always in me,” she confessed, her voice filled with an unyielding intensity. “If you don''t touch me, I will perish without you.”
Marius, his wavering resolve shattering, gently slid his hands around Brooke''s waist, their eyes locked in a powerful connection. “Are you sure?” he asked, his voice a mere breath against her skin.
With a nod, Brooke affirmed her unwavering certainty, she slowly kneels down, then slides her mouth on to him. And in that moment, the world around them blurred into a haze of passion and longing. As they succumbed to their shared passion, Marius guided Brooke back to his bed, she rests her legs open to him near the edge, then Marius slides into Brooke, as she holds him close.
As Devereaux walked down the dimly lit hallway, the soft glow of candles casting flickering shadows on the walls, he noticed a maid meticulously polishing a magnificent vase on a nearby bureau. Intrigued, he took a step closer, his curiosity piqued by the maid''s diligent attention to detail.
But just as he was about to approach her, a sudden sound caught his attention. It was the unmistakable sound of laughter, echoing through the hallway. Devereaux turned his head and saw his sister, Evain, accompanied by a male and a female soldiers.
His sister beckoned them with a mischievous grin, her laughter infectious. “Come,” she said, her voice playful and inviting. “We can talk in my room.”
But before Devereaux could move, he seized the opportunity to address the situation at hand. Blocking his sister''s path and causing the maid to scurry away in a flurry of movements, he faced Evain with a stern gaze.
“Does mother know about this?” Devereaux''s voice held a note of concern, tinged with a hint of disapproval.
Evain''s eyes narrowed, her expression defiant as she stepped forward, her presence commanding. She met her brother''s gaze, the air between them thick with tension. “And what,” she replied, her voice laced with determination, “does mother know about your secret visits with Princess Moriko?”
Devereaux stamped his feet in frustration, the sound reverberating through the empty hallway. With a deep scowl etched across his face, he muttered under his breath, “Fine, enjoy your night, slut.” There was an edge to his voice, filled with disappointment and simmering anger.
Evain, undeterred by Devereaux''s outburst, pointed her finger defiantly into his chest. Her piercing gaze held a mix of defiance and amusement. Without missing a beat, she retorted, “I''d rather be a slut than be a creepy pervert like you.”
Devereaux''s anger simmered into rage as he forcefully shoved past Evain, his shoulder colliding with hers. His voice strained with seething hatred, he hissed, “I will be glad one day when someone shuts that smart mouth of yours.”
Evain didn''t flinch, her laughter echoing down the hallway as she confidently replied, “You only prove my point with your crude words. Good night, brother. Try to go easy on the maid staff; I''ll need someone to clean my room in the morning.” With a playful wave, she walked away, flanked by two soldiers. Her laughter filled the air, a stark contrast to the tension that lingered between them.
As Devereaux stormed off, as he knocked items off the nearby shelves, the clattering sound punctuating his frustrated proclamation. “This place causes too much suffering,” he muttered.