Hunter is probably out communing with the forest snakes or whatever. Which is fine. He's more comfortable out there than with me. Or maybe he just doesn’t like the palace. I get that. The palace isn't my favorite place, either.
But my discomfort is nothing compared to what Diala is going through. I need to help her. Maybe I can get Brokk to send a message to the other kings’ magicians, asking about Omega stuff.
It sucks that Hunter took my comments the wrong way. I rub at my chest, trying to dissipate the tension I feel in the bond.
There's a rap at the door. I wrap a fur around myself, and finger a stiff lock of hair. I need to wash. My skin and hair are covered in dried cum. It would be gross if it didn’t smell so good. “Come in.”
The doors slide open, and Brokk sticks his head in. He keeps his eyes averted. “Majesta, I came to tell you to make ready.”
I clutch the fur to my chest and slide off the bed. “For what?”
“Today, you travel to the Kings’ Council. The king has made it clear that he wants you to come with him.”
“Me? Why?”
Brokk lifts his hands in surrender. “I advised against it. They are going to pester him about the Stone Kingdom. The situation requires finesse and diplomacy and, well…” He grimaces.
He thinks Hunter isn’t capable of either of those things. Anger flashes through me. “He did well enough communing with the Slythin,” I reply coolly.
Brokk’s head snaps up. He blinks at me before jerking his gaze down. “I beg pardon,majesta.”
“Don’t ask me for pardon. Speak more highly of your king. Especially when you are the closest friend he has.”
Brokk clears his throat. “The king insists you will be safe with him, and I had to agree. He also wanted me to tell you there's a high chance you will meet another Hoo-man who is also an Omega.”
“Oh my god.” I nearly drop the fur. “That’s awesome. I’ll be ready soon. Thank you.” I’m going to meet one of the other humans!
I scramble to the bathing chamber. What should I wear to a Kings’ Council? What is Hunter wearing?
Where is he, anyway? I should have asked Brokk.
Strange that the summons happened just a few hours after I told Hunter I wanted to meet the humans. Unless… he arranged the Kings’ Council. That was why he was gone so early. He went out of his way to help me.
But why didn't he come and tell me himself?
Before I get a fresh tunic, I pause and press a hand to my heart. There’s nothing but an echo of pain in the bond.
* * *
Haley
My first ride in a flying airship, and I can’t even enjoy it. The view is incredible—swathes of desert, snow-capped mountains, a descent into a forest with towering orange trees rising against a lavender sky—but Hunter’s tense form beside me keeps me on edge. Or maybe it’s that I’m on my way to the Kings’ Council, and I have no idea what to expect. Brokk told me what he could, but Hunter hasn’t said much. As per usual.
I pick at my nails. I’m in a long tunic and a dark green cloak that’s so loose on me, it could be one of Hunter’s. Maybe it is. Even though I washed before dressing, I still smell like his seed. The scent soothes me.
Hunter’s gaze is on the passing scenery. He’s not happy. I don’t know how to fix it.
I lick my lips. “Did you arrange this council so I could meet the other humans?” I say to fill the silence.
He grunts. I take that as a yes.
“Thank you.” I place a hand on his knee. The tiniest gesture. After a moment, he picks it up in his huge one. We sit holding hands, but my insides have been scooped out. There’s nothing in me—no organs, nothing but the emptiness of the bond.
A huge structure has appeared ahead. It’s four times as big as the palace in Arboron, with huge golden columns. Golden steps glimmer, leading to a wide road that reflects the light like golden lava. There are golden statues—warriors in golden armor—lining the path to the palace.
The flying ship sets down on the road. The doors open. Before I can rise, Hunter scoops me up. He pulls down my hood, and strides out into the heat.
The statues are real people—big Alphas in armor, holding spears. The air shimmers with the heat of the sun, but the soldiers don’t move. Somehow I can feel their eyes on me, and I’m grateful for the hood.
