“Alas, I’m joining the rank of priestess,” she deadpanned, and laughter broke out, drowning the male’s groan.
Hana stepped back and joined Drav’n and Lykon behind him.
Aerén could feel Leya’s growing anxiety through their mate bond, but her expression remained calm.
“Are you really a Chosen, Lady Leya?” someone yelled.
A pin drop could be heard.
Aerén gently squeezed Leya’s icy fingers. Then he put his palm on the handspan of bare skin on her back, drew her close, and cast his people a flat stare. “You doubt me?”
“No, Your Highness,” another voice in the back called out, “But the rumors—”
“Are laid to rest.” Oh, he knew Eregen’s grievances were likely what fueled this. “Because of her, the vegetation back at the castle has taken life again.”
Before more pitiful excuses broke out, he addressed them. “Denizens of Cidéra, you’ve heard my sire was found and rescued. We have one person to thank for that miracle and for preventing Akkeris from sinking. I’d like to presentmy mate, Princess Leya.”
A deafening cheering broke out.
Her relief flooded him like light. Then,Wow, they must love you a lot, or they’re thrilled you’re mated and no longer a danger to the females.
Aerén bit back a smile at her snarky retort and lightly pinched her hip.
Ouch!She jerked.
That’s no way to talk to your mate, caeli mea.
He continued out loud, “Now we have every reason to hope. This gorgeous female here…” He smiled at her. “She also fought off rebels and outwitted a powerful sorcerer who captured my sire. Much as it frustrates us that he escaped, we will find him and locate mymateri.”
Everyone just stared, obviously finding it hard to believe a tiny, fragile human like his mate, whose head just about reached his clavicle, could do something that dangerous.
They’re staring like they don’t believe you,her wry voice coasted into his mind.Maybe I should just invite the Auras to join us.
Then do.
* * *
Leya huffed at Aerén’s response, then hastily swallowed her laughter, sweeping back her flowing scarf. She’d been teasing, as if she would really call on the Auras.
But remembering the male who pushed her into the river, she realized the truth. These people were angels, and powerful. To claim her place in this society, and be someone to be reckoned with, she had to be stronger.
Yes, she’d use whatever arsenal she had at her disposal…
I am powerful. I saved my mate and took on a freaking sorcerer!
Leya straightened her spine.
“What can you do?” a male in a charcoal gray robe, in front of the dais with a group of familiar-clad men, asked.
He’s one of the council members. And extremely old,Aerén said dryly.He can wield fire. Can you sense his ability?
She’d never tried to tap into anyone’s powers before, except Aerén’s, but they’d been in dire straits in that volcano, and it had just happened.I’m not sure.
Try.
Leya focused, letting her mind feel… Damn, this was harder, like hitting a wall with his shields obviously shut. Unlike Aerén, who let her siphon off him.
“No matter, Your Highness.” The smile the male sent her was placating, as if appeasing a child who talked big. Of course, they wouldn’t dare belittle her in front of their royals, whom they seemed to adore.
