I could hearthe commotion from the throne room as we stood in the antechamber, waiting to be announced.
To my surprise, Calix had chosen to make a statement and forewent his usual court attire. Instead, he was in full armor. Though, his crown was still on his head, and his wings were spread wide behind me. He’d instructed me to leave mine out as well for the duration.
I understood the reasoning. Wings present in Fae form were something few had. Only those of royal blood could summon them. Making it clear to everyone present exactly who I was.
As the herald announced us, I listened in particular to how I was introduced.
“CrownPrincess Asteria Faelynn Earendel. The Gods Chosen Heir to Day Kingdom. Mate of the King of Night Kingdom. The Star Queen of Celesterra!”
Calix and I walked out; my arm twined around his. I took a deep breath, swallowing hard at the number of people in the room. I thanked Nox the ceiling was open to the stars because otherwise the room would feel horribly tight right now with the number of people packed inside.
Fae and humans alike were everywhere. I spotted several I knew: the lords and ladies of Night, some people I’d met around the city, and even some of the soldiers I’d trained with in the yard. But it was overwhelming, nonetheless.
Calix, sensing my distress, sent me his love and pride down the bond in a wave that distracted me immediately. I sighed in relief as the panic receded, and I let Calix lead me to where his throne waited on the dais. The massive dragon throne was still a wonder to look upon, and I realized that the runes above the throne in shining silver began to actually glow as we neared.
Huh. Maybe my Fae eyesight could pick it up where my human eyes couldn’t.
We reached the dais and walked up the steps to it, watching my feet to ensure I didn’t do something completely embarrassing and trip. I’d have to hide for the rest of my life if that happened.
Calix led me right to the dragon throne, taking my hand and leading me to sit on it. I was surprised, blinking at him for a moment. He winked at me, and a burst of confidence came through the bond. He moved to stand beside the throne, his hand resting on the dragon hilt of his sheathed blade.
Standing there in his armor, he looked quite imposing. His long silvery-white hair was down to his chest, with his pointed ears poking through on each side. His purple eyes watched the crowd intently. His sharp cheekbones gave an edge to his look, but plush lips softened it slightly. He was the most gorgeous warrior king in history. I was positive of that.
“Citizens of Night Kingdom,” Calix called out, the crowd hushing to listen as their king spoke. “From Tairngire and beyond! I thank you all for coming on such short notice. As your king, I want you to know I appreciate every single one of you putting in the effort to be here with us for this historic moment.”
They hung onto his every word. His charisma came through in spades, and I nearly laughed remembering when I first met him and put a knife to his throat. He used that charismatic personality to disarm me, and I knew now I’d never stood a chance.
“Today, I introduce you all to the future queen!” he exclaimed, somewhat haughtily. “Of Night Kingdom, and of Day Kingdom!”
The crowd gasped, and looked around at one another.
“Yes, you heard me correctly,” Calix confirmed, a growing smirk on his face. “For years, we have awaited the culmination of my birth prophecy.”
“Darkness sweeps across the land
To bring new order to Fae and Man.
A light to brighten his darkness be the king’s fate
Blood will seep and unveil his mate.
An eclipsed star lost who must be found
The power of two will be her crown.
Together, they will usher in a new age
Though not without a war to wage.
A queen of stars and a king of night
Are the only hope to see the world made right.”
He quoted the words with a sense of gravitas I envied, the crowd eating out of his hand.
“The Star Queen was unveiled as promised! The power of the Day Kingdom’s crown is hers by right of blood and by order of the gods!” He thundered, “And as my soulmate, the crown of Night is hers to wear!”
“The power of two!” Someone in the crowd shouted, followed by another.
