Without hesitation he answers coolly, “Yes. I know it to be true.”
My steps slow in an attempt to put more distance between me and him.
We make our way to the end of the hall, as he stops and turns to face me.
“We both have the capability to create, you see,” his scratchy words needle against my skin, “but yet, you only conjure up winged creatures whereas I sculpt new worlds within someone’s mind.”
I stay silent, for once knowing when my words would cause me more trouble than it’s worth.
Flattery. That’s what Leeson told me to cling to when surrounded by these monsters.
Sighing, I reply, “You are correct in that observation, my Lord.”
I would rather have swallowed venom from a fyre serpent than placate this man. It’s possible the lie burns in my throat more than that would have.
I resume the demure pose and make myself small. It’s convincing enough that The Nightmare moves towards the passageway to the left of where we stand, pushing past me.
My eyes threaten to roll out of my head as I stare at the red floral arrangement of roses on the marble pedestal in front of me, a nod to the revelries from last night.
“Hurry, little mouse.” The Nightmares voice trails back to me as he puts more distance between us.
I twist on the heel of my foot and begin down the hall towards him, wishing I could unleash my dagger into his back.
Behave Alora.I chide myself and quicken my steps to meet up with him.
The soft padding of footfalls on the carpet stretch in the silence between us and I’m glad for the lack of conversation.
In a matter of moments, we’re finally in front of my carved door. I reach into my hidden pocket and pull out the brass key and move to insert it into the keyhole. The Nightmare steps in front of the door, blocking me, and holds his hand out.
“I wouldn’t be a gentleman if I didn’t unlock your door.” He scowls at me, annoyance dripping off his tongue.
“I’m more than capable, thank you though.”
My answer causes him to roll his eyes exaggeratedly.
I push by him and insert the key into the lock. A soft click sounds as I turn it and with a twist of the knob, the door opens smoothly.
Leaving the barrier between my room and the hall slightly ajar, I turn slightly towards The Nightmare and give him a dismissive goodbye.
“No need to stick around. I’m sure King Euron will come fetch me.”
He doesn’t wait as he grunts before turning sharply on his heel, leaving me to enter the doorway.
I wait until his footfalls get farther away before recalling my magic and let the mask fall.
Stepping into the room, I turn quickly and latch the door closed. I press my forehead to the cool wood and twist the key, locking it behind me.
A sigh of relief escapes and I stay there a moment with my head still on the door.
With a heave, I quickly move to undress from the thick fabrics. Sliding to the edge of the wall and opening the dresser drawers, I notice a knit long sleeve and black fitted trousers. A smirk forms on my lips as it registers who’s likely responsible for the clothing.
Kassiel.
He must have remembered how much I enjoyed getting back to Rivers End and putting on the stretchy material after our journey through the woods.
I quickly undress and remove the layers that make up the gossamer gown. Throwing the silver pieces onto the bed, I almost regret that I won’t be taking it with me when we leave. I unstrap my dagger from my thigh and the light catches on the opal hilt before tossing it on the bed with the dress.
Reaching for the knit top, I almost laugh with how soft the fibers are. Pulling the tunic on and slipping into the pants, I decide to quickly plait my hair, the long locks feeling too heavy and intrusive.
