The subtle dismissal is expertly delivered. My Omega has claws.
Isla's smile tightens. "We understand both shadow and light in ways pure-blooded courts cannot."
"I'm sure you do," Seraphina agrees pleasantly. "Though understanding without the ability to truly bond is merely observation. There are some things only an Omega can give an Alpha."
My Alpha growls with satisfaction at my mate's possessiveness.
"These border incidents," I interject, "six engagements between our forces and Light Court patrols, always in the disputed territories near your lands."
"We propose a summit," Isla says, turning her attention to me with a smile that promises more than diplomacy. She leans forward deliberately, ensuring I have a clear view. "Representatives from all three territories, meeting to establish firm boundaries. I would personally ensure your comfort during negotiations. Alphas do require certain attention during extended treaty missions."
Seraphina's emotions surge—hot, possessive Omega jealousy. Her fingers tense beneath mine, and I stroke my thumb along her wrist in response, fascinated by her reaction.
"How thoughtful," I reply, keeping my eyes on Isla though my attention remains fixed on Seraphina's turbulent emotions. "Though I find comfort overrated. I prefer my Omega's company."
Isla's eyes glitter with challenge. "The Neutral Territories can be very stimulating, Lord Makalai. I'm certain we could provide diversions that would interest even a newly mated Alpha."
"I'm sure they pale in comparison to what the Shadow Court offers," Seraphina interjects, her voice honey-sweet yet laced with venom. "After all, only an Omega can truly satisfy an Alpha's needs. Isn't that right, husband?"
The word "husband" from her lips sends an unexpected jolt through me—satisfaction mixed with something more dangerous.
"These incidents," Seraphina continues, her strategic mind sharpening, "always occur when your people are perfectly positioned to mediate. Curious timing for a Beta mediator."
Both Isla and I turn to her.
"What exactly are you suggesting?" Isla asks warily.
"Manufactured conflicts," Seraphina replies with a casual shrug that belies the calculation I sense in her emotions. "Someone hoping to provoke war between the courts might disguise themselves as shadow soldiers. Someone whose position strengthens when both Shadow and Light are weakened by mutual destruction."
The accusation hangs in the air. Isla's composure slips—a flicker of anger quickly suppressed.
"The Neutral Territories have always advocated for peace," she says coolly.
"Except when conflict serves your interests," I add, impressed by Seraphina's reasoning. "A war between Shadow and Light grants significant leverage to neutral mediators, does it not? Particularly if both courts emerge weakened."
Isla's eyes narrow. "If that's your assessment of our intentions, perhaps this meeting is premature."
"No accusations have been made," Seraphina says smoothly, though I sense her satisfaction at rattling our guest. "Merely observations about convenient coincidences."
My mate is no mere assassin—she's a strategist capable of turning Isla's seduction attempts into an interrogation without ever breaking strategic protocol.
"We should investigate these incidents thoroughly," I suggest, watching Isla's reaction carefully. "A joint team—Shadow Court, Light Court, and neutral representatives examining the evidence together."
Isla hesitates just long enough to confirm Seraphina's suspicions. "That would be unprecedented."
"So is a fated mate bond completed between our courts," I reply, bringing Seraphina's hand to my lips in a deliberately provocative gesture. Her conflicted response bleeds into me—irritation at being used as a prop, combined with desire at my Alpha touch and possessive satisfaction at Isla's obvious discomfort.
"I'll need to consult with my superiors," Isla says finally, her composure cracking. "While I do, perhaps you might show me more of your palace, Lord Makalai? I find myself curious about your private spaces. I've heard mated Alphas have very interesting chambers."
"Of course," I agree, rising and pulling Seraphina up with me, our hands still joined. "Lady Seraphina and I would be delighted to continue your tour."
Isla's smile falters. "I wouldn't want to impose on the Shadow Lady's time—surely a newly mated Omega needs her rest after such vigorous bonding?—"
"Nonsense," Seraphina cuts in with a smile that doesn't reach her eyes. "I insist. Some areas of the palace can be quite treacherous for the uninitiated. I wouldn't want you to get lost and encounter something dangerous. Particularly Betas who don't understand their place around bonded pairs."
The threat beneath her polite words is unmistakable. Isla's returning smile is equally edged. "How thoughtful. Though I've always had excellent balance, Lady Seraphina."
"One can never be too careful in the Shadow Court," Seraphina replies sweetly. "Particularly around things that do not belong to you. Things that are already claimed, marked, and mated."
