Embers to Flames (Fates Entwined #1)

Chapter Eleven

The next morning, I find myself to be in a much more relaxed state of mind. I awaken to a lonely bed, had it not been for my nakedness, I would have thought last night was a dream. Despite my desire to remain in bed, oblivious to the outside world… duty calls and breakfast awaits—with the King. I peel myself from the sheets, the cool air of the room washes over my naked body, sending a vibration through my muscles. My gaze is drawn to something on the end table as I make my way out of bed. It’s a single long stem red rose. Tied to the stem is a small rolled up piece of parchment. As I pick up the rose and unfurl the parchment, I see that it’s a note from Theo.

I hope you slept well. Take your time getting ready this morning. The girls will see to my uncle. I’ll be back to take you to breakfast. -Theo.

I touch the rose against my lips and nose. The sweet floral fragrance gently teases my nostrils. I make my way towards the bathing room and gasp at the beauty of what lies before me. A grand oval porcelain and marble bathing tub. Big enough to fit three of me in. The feet and piping are gold and sparkle in the morning sunlight. I skip over excitedly and turn on the faucet.

Fresh, clean, HOT water—on demand!

I try to remember the last time I had such a luxurious bath. A table near the tub is adorned with various soaps and cloths for cleaning. I take one of the bottles and tip it upside down under the running water. Tiny iridescent spheres cling to the sides of the tub, their surfaces shimmering with a delicate opalescence. As the water swirls and shifts, the ephemeral globes multiply, rising like laughter from the depths. Thick clouds of steam fill the room as I step into the tub, seemingly unfazed by the near-boiling water. I lie back and let the water envelope my body. Closing my eyes, I let out a satisfied sigh, feeling any remaining tension melt away.

I’m unsure how long I’ve been soaking in the bath, but as my eyes flutter open, I realize I have an audience. An Elf with cascading brown hair, adorned with a majestic silver crown on his head, leans against the doorframe with arms crossed. He looks at me with an alluring gaze.

“Can I help you?” I manage to ask.

His eyes rake over my body, taking in my naked form with a slow, deliberate intensity. A small smirk plays at the corners of his lips as he pushes away from the doorframe and meanders towards me.

“I heard there was a new— Human —guest in the castle,” he says, his voice a low purr. He stops just a few inches from the edge of the tub, looking down at me with a gaze that is both appraising and predatory. “I am Prince Ruvyn.” The name rolls off his tongue with a hint of arrogance, but there’s also a captivating allure to it. I can’t help but feel drawn to him, despite the unease creeping up my spine. I can feel his gaze on me, his eyes a rich amber hue with a touch of hazel, never wavering from my face. It’s as if he’s trying to read my every move and emotion.

Despite my completely naked self, I quickly try to remember my manners. “Your Grace, please forgive my ignorance. I meant no disrespect.”

He looks at me smugly, “If you meant no disrespect, then I would think you should be bowing right about now.”

“But Your Grace, I am…” I look down towards my naked body, barely covered by a thin layer of water and bubbles, “…indisposed at the moment. If you will only hand me a towel. ”

Prince Ruvyn chuckles softly, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “Indisposed, you say?” he muses, his gaze lingering on my face for a moment before drifting down to my body once more. “Well, I suppose I can’t argue with that.” With a flourish, the prince snaps his fingers, and a plush towel appears beside the tub. “Here you are, My Lady,” he says, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “Although, I must admit, I was rather enjoying the view.”

I grab the towel and quickly wrap it around myself, trying to maintain some semblance of dignity. The prince’s suggestive comments and unabashed gaze have left me feeling both uncomfortable and yet strangely exhilarated. I clear my throat, trying to regain my composure.

“I am no Lady, but thank you, Your Grace.”

I hear the door to my sleeping chambers close, followed by heavy footsteps approaching the entrance to the bathing room. Theo steps into view almost instantly, and the look of jealousy spreads across his face. His eyes widen as he takes in the scene before him: me, standing naked in the tub, nothing but a towel to cover my skin, with Prince Ruvyn standing over me. Theo’s intense gaze flickers back and forth between the two of us, like lightning flashing in a stormy sky. You can almost feel the heat emanating from his body as he glares at us, his emotions simmering just below the surface.

“Prince Ruvyn,” he declares with a curt nod, his voice a controlled calm that belies the tempest in his eyes. “I wasn’t aware we were entertaining royalty in the private quarters. ”

Prince Ruvyn turns his attention to Theo, a smug smile playing on his lips and a sharpness in his eyes now, a predator recognizing another. “Theodas, always a pleasure to see the winged protector so… vigilant,” he says, his voice dripping with arrogance. Theo’s eyes narrow as he takes in the prince’s condescending tone. “Rest assured, your lady friend is in no danger from me.”

The air between them crackles with unspoken challenges, and I find myself caught in the middle, a pawn in a game of testosterone and jealousy. Wrapped in a towel, I’m acutely aware of my vulnerability, yet there is a strength in their rivalry that emboldens me. “Gentlemen,” I interject, my voice steady despite the tremor I feel. “Perhaps we can dispense with the posturing. Prince Ruvyn was just leaving. Weren’t you, Your Grace?”

The prince’s gaze lingers on me for a moment longer, a silent acknowledgement of the battle lines drawn, before he inclines his head in a mock bow. “Of course, my lady. I wouldn’t dream of overstaying my welcome.” With a final, lingering look that promises this encounter is far from over, he strides from the room, leaving a charged silence in his wake.

“Are you alright?”

I quickly step out of the tub, my wet legs making the marble floor slick beneath my feet. “I’m fine,” I say, trying to compose myself. “He just caught me off guard. I certainly wasn’t anticipating anyone, especially not the King’s son, to walk in on me.”

Theo’s expression softens as he hears my words. “Prince Ruvyn is known for his charm and cunning demeanor, but he’s not exactly admired by many. He is young—barely older that you in human years, yet still considered a mere child by Elven standards. His immaturity is evident, and he is far from ready to rule a kingdom.” He steps closer to me; his hands reach out to gently take mine. His touch is warm and comforting, helping to ease the tension that has built back up in my body. “You don’t have to worry about the Prince, King Varitan has many more years ahead of him,” Theo says reassuringly, rubbing my arms up and down. “He’s not someone you need to concern yourself with. Now, we’re late for breakfast and the King waits for no one. Let’s get you dressed.”

We make our way down to the dining hall. Lord Erhorn is already sitting down enjoying a cup of tea as he reads through some parchments.

I can’t help but feel guilty about not contributing in some way. “Maybe I should go to the kitchens and see if the girls need any help,” I suggest, reminding myself that working was the whole point of me coming to the capital.

Theo pulls out a chair for me near the end of the long table, across from Erhorn. “Don’t worry about that. I talked with them this morning and the King has requested that you join him for breakfast, not serve him.” I smile humbly and take my seat, as Theo takes the one next to me.

Erhorn looks up from his documents, “Ah. Good morning, Rosanhi. Tea?” he says, motioning towards the kettle sitting before him.

I nod, “Yes sir, thank you.” I pour myself a cup and take a sip.

Just then, the doors at the far end of the hall open, and in walks King Varitan, followed by Prince Ruvyn. Erhorn and Theo immediately stand up and I follow their lead. The King proceeds to take a seat in the chair at the end, but still, right next to me. The prince sits next to Ehorn. I feel a rush of nervousness wash over me as I attempt to maintain eye contact with the King. He seems to be studying me, his gaze intense, but not unkind.

I muster up a small smile and say, “Good morning, Your Grace. Thank you for inviting me to join you.”

The King nods in response, his gaze lingering on me for a moment before he turns to address Theo. “Theodas, I trust you’ve been taking care of my guest?” He asks.

“Yes, Your Grace,” Theo replies, his voice steady and respectful. “She’s been… well taken care of.” He looks at me and winks. I’m forced to look down into my cup of tea to keep from giggling, but I can feel my cheeks flush.

“Good, good,” the King murmurs, still looking at me. He turns back to Theo. “I want you to stay with her at all times. Ensure no harm comes to her. She is of utmost importance to us.”

I’m just a human. Why am I so important?

Theo nods slightly. “Of course. Your Grace. I will not let her out of my sight.”

The King nods in approval before turning his attention back to me. “And what do you think of our kingdom so far, Rosanhi?” he asks.

I take a deep breath and try to collect my thoughts. “I’m impressed, Your Grace. The castle is beautiful, and everyone seems very kind,” I say carefully.

The King nods again, his expression thoughtful. “I’m glad to hear that,” he says. “We do our best to maintain our image and ensure the well-being of our people.”

The kitchen door swings open, and Lenna traipses in with a platter full of various breakfast foods. Toast, porridge, eggs, and sausage. There are even fruits and tarts.

“I think this is the most beautiful and delicious breakfast I’ve ever seen,” I say, smiling at her as she sets the platter down on the table in front of us. “Thank you, Lenna.” She returns my smile, her eyes sparkling with joy.

The King’s gaze settles on me with a gravity that belies the casualness of our breakfast gathering. “Rosanhi,” he begins, his voice carrying the weight of his crown, “a ruler’s view is often obscured by the high walls of his castle. Tell me, as one who has walked among the people, what shadows have you seen creeping over my land? Your insights are invaluable, for they are the eyes through which I can glimpse the truth of my kingdom.”

As a Human, my lifespan is but a heartbeat to his Elven eternity, my experiences a fleeting whisper against the backdrop of his ageless wisdom. Yet. It is precisely this transience, this urgent pulse of Human life, that colors my perspective with a vibrancy that immortality cannot grasp.

I take a deep breath and begin to explain the series of events that led to the accusations against Mikyl. I describe to the King the situation with Mara along with the transformation of numerous villages into perilous havens of desolation, all due to the influence of Auraroot.

Theo listens intently, his expression grave. Prince Ruvyn, on the other hand, seems bored and disinterested, playing with his food and occasionally shooting sideways glances at me. Lord Erhorn nods thoughtfully throughout my explanation.

The King looks at me with intent, “And your husband? Do you believe him to be a good man?”

I pause for a moment before responding, choosing my words carefully. “He was, Your Grace. And I believe that he still could be, had it not been for the influence of the Auraroot.”

The King nods, considering my words. “And what of this murder situation? Do you believe he did it?” Suddenly I feel like I’m the one on trial .

“I do not know, Your Grace,” I admit, my voice wavering slightly. “I desperately want to believe in his innocence, but I can’t deny the evidence against him. When we last spoke, he adamantly maintained that he did not commit the crime. He did, however, go through the victim’s pockets afterwards; yet he swore to me that he did not harm him.”

The King leans back in his chair, taking a bite of sausage. He swallows and then continues, “Well, the other High Lords should be arriving soon. We shall have the trial today and give your husband a chance to plead for himself. One more question though; what are your plans for the future Rosanhi? If your husband is found guilty, where will you go?”

“I have a home on the island of Bahulya, Your Grace, where my grandmother also resides. With all due respect, I believe that regardless of Mikyl’s verdict, our marriage is essentially over. I am ready to move on with my life.”

The King nods, seeming to accept my answer. “Well, we’ll see what the trial brings,” he says. “In the meantime, please enjoy your breakfast.” I take a deep breath and continue eating, trying to calm my nerves.

The sudden crash of shattering dishes startles me, prompting an instinctive leap. Ava is standing there with her hands covering her mouth. Beneath her is a scatter of broken porcelain. Her eyes brim with unshed tears, betraying her shock. I stand up and rush to her.

“Ava, what is it? ”

Predictably, she remains silent. Lenna bursts through the door in response to the sound of the crashing dishes. Yet, Ava’s gaze remains locked—onto Prince Ruvyn. Her expression is etched with sheer horror. I look towards the prince; his face is blank and unyielding.

“Are you alright, Ava?” I ask, trying to comfort her.

She shakes her head, still unable to speak, and Lenna quickly rushes over to her side. I glance at the prince, but he still seems indifferent to the situation. The King clears his throat, bringing my attention back to him.

“Take the girl to her sleeping chambers. I’ll send in a healer.”

“That won’t be necessary, Your Grace. Thank you.” I say, taking Ava’s hand, Lenna takes the other and together we guide her out of the dining hall to their sleeping chambers.

We settle Ava onto the sofa. She is still shaken but seems to be calming down a bit. I sit beside her and take her hands in mine, offering her a gentle smile. My attention is drawn to the sound of quiet knocking on the door. Theo peeks inside and I motion for him to enter.

“I can help.” He whispers.

I give him a grateful, but sorrowful look of admiration. “No one can help her. The Raven Witches couldn’t even help her.”

“I can’t help her to speak again, but I can look into her mind.” His face shows worry, as if I might be offended by this information. I take a long glance at Ava then nod, knowing it’s worth a try. I trust Theo.

“Thank you. But please, be gentle with her.”

He nods and approaches Ava, taking a seat on the floor in front of her. Lenna and I stand back, watching, anticipating. He gently takes her hands in his and closes his eyes, concentrating. After a moment, he opens his eyes and meets Ava’s gaze, and a silent exchange begins. His gaze deepens, becoming a vortex that seems to pull the very thoughts from her mind. Theo’s expression remains impassive, but his eyes flicker with the reflections of Ava’s deepest secrets, reading her inner world as one would a book written in luminous ink.

After a few moments, Theo looks up at me, a mixture of shock and concern on his face. He stands up, patting Ava on the knee gently and nodding his head towards her. Ava looks at him with relief, as if the weight of something heavy has finally been lifted from her.

He steps towards us, “We need to go speak with my uncle. Now.” I notice the urgency in Theo’s voice and nod.

“Ava, we’ll be back soon. Lenna, please stay with her.” I follow Theo out of the room, my mind racing with questions.

We burst into Lord Erhorn’s chambers, interrupting his preparations for Mikyl’s trial. His gaze falls on Theo, immediately sensing that something is amiss, “What is it?”

“I have some vital information regarding the prince. It can’t wait.” Theo responds quickly.

Lord Erhorn’s expression turns serious as he directs his full attention to us. “Tell me,” he demands.

“I have reason to believe that Prince Ruvyn has been using Auraroot to create an army of Obscuro Elves.” Theo’s face is as serious as the ocean is deep.

While his face is unyielding and stoic, reflecting the gravity of his thoughts; my expression was confused, “Wait, what are Obscuro Elves?” I ask.

Lord Erhorn takes a seat at his desk; his face having lost its color. He reaches up to caress his beard, a nervous habit. “Obscuro Elves are a dark and twisted version of our kind, created by the use of Auraroot. They are known for their fierce loyalty and unquestioning obedience, but also for their cruelty and lack of empathy. How did you come to have this information Theodas?”

“Ava, sir. I—used my ability to—read her thoughts. She walked in on the prince as he was pouring liquid Auraroot down the throat of a young Elf during the Spring Ball.”

Lord Erhorn’s eyes widen with shock. “This is… treasonous. I will inform the King when the time is right. Unfortunately, at this moment, we are expected in the throne room for Mikyl’s trial. I must plead with both of you to keep this re velation between us,” Theo and I nod in agreement before turning to leave.

Theo and I walk side by side navigating our way through the castle’s never-ending labyrinth. Sensing my unease, he takes me by the hand, his fingers interlocking with mine. Warmth radiates from his touch. “Are you okay?” he asks. His vibrant golden eyes meet mine, glinting with worry under the luminescent glow of torches lining the stone walls.

I shake my head, still trying to process the information. “No, not really. I mean, what are we going to do? If the prince is behind this, it could mean war. And I have so many questions right now.”

“And I promise that you will have all the answers you require. Let’s get through the trial first. We’ll deal with the prince later.” I nod, feeling a mixture of fear and determination.

We draw closer to the throne room’s towering doors; a vague murmur of voices seeps out from behind them. We stop right before entering the room. Theo’s hand moves from mine to my cheek, he leans down to press a gentle kiss on my forehead.

“We will face this together,” is all he says as we step into the throne room–still side by side.