Page 13

Chapter thirteen

Evinee

S lam! The door to Eren’s room shut behind me as I marched back through the halls of Doonak. Did the princess seriously think that Eren was going to forgive her so easily after everything she put him through? She didn’t deserve him.

I made my way to my rooms, locking myself inside the drab chambers. I slid down against the door, trying to gather my emotions so I could fulfill my duty. I focused on my breathing, trying to take my mind off Eren and Gen.

“There you are.” Leenia’s voice came from the other chamber.

I snapped my head up, forcing myself to my feet. “Well, good morning to you too, Leenia beans.”

“Are you ever going to redecorate this torture chamber?” she asked, looking around the room. “You haven’t made a single change since he died.”

“It’s not like I entertain much,” I replied, moving into my bedroom. She was right. I hadn’t changed a single piece of décor since my father and his wife had died. This place … this prison was my personal reminder of where I came from. How my living hell had begun. I guess I was sentimental.

“I’m just saying, this place could really use a spruce up. Maybe some lighter colors and new artwork. This one,” she said, gesturing to a painting of a man being devoured by demons, “seems more Doria’s things than yours.”

I laughed, throwing the lingerie options on my bed before pouring myself a cup of tea. “I relate to that picture more than you know.”

“What?” she said, plopping down on the edge of my bed. “A slayer of males?”

I grinned at my best friend. “Something like that.” Little did she know how accurate she was.

“How was Eren this morning?” she asked.

I huffed. “Oh, you know, depressed, moody, distracted.”

“Your little fashion show didn’t brighten his spirit?”

“Nope. And the worst part was when the princess walked in during the peep show.”

Leenia chuckled. “Oh, I am sure she just loved that.”

“If she didn’t want me dead before, I am sure I just moved to the top of her list.”

“Eren won’t let her hurt you.”

“You sure about that? Seems to me that he would do anything to win her back. And apparently, she’s had a change of heart regarding her husband. I give it a week.”

“Alright, alright, enough Eren talk. Let’s get out of here for a bit. A distraction is in order.”

“Shopping?” I asked excitedly.

“Yippie … my favorite.”

I laughed, taking her hand and dragging her to the door. “You’re the best!”

Down into the city we went, hitting store after store. I didn’t need anything new, but it was always a great way to distract me from my problems. Leenia wasn’t much of a shopper, but she did love me, so she would often subject herself to my spending habits. Thanks to my father, I had been left with coffers of gold, and I planned on spending every last coin of his blood money.

“What about this?” I asked, pulling a sheer dress from a rack.

“And who are you buying that little piece for?” asked Leenia.

“It’s not for me,” I said, holding it up to her muscular form. “It’s for you. I think Voz would die if he saw you in this.”

She snatched it, looking around with embarrassment. “Lower your voice.”

“Who is going to hear us? The clerk?” I replied sarcastically.

“For the record, I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

I rolled my eyes, leaning on one hip as I glared at her. “Seriously Leenia? You forget who your friend is. The title our prince so graciously bestowed upon me was spymaster … ring any bells?”

“It’s not what you think.”

“So, you spending the last week in his room isn’t what I think? Why don’t you just brand ‘stupid’ across my forehead then.”

Leenia erupted in laughter, putting the sheer dress back on the rack. “Fine, fine, you caught me.”

“No shit,” I replied, joining in her laughter. “Who cares what anyone says? As long as you’re happy, that’s what matters. Everyone else can go fuck themselves.”

Leenia looked at me with love in her eyes. “And this is why I love you.”

I shrugged with a prideful smirk. “I am quite lovable, after all.” We both laughed, pulling each other into an embrace.

I opened my eyes, peered over Leenia’s shoulder and caught sight of a few highborn females looking in our direction. They grimaced with disgust and whispered foul gossip. I pulled away, looking at Leenia’s beautiful, innocent face.

“Let’s hit a pub,” I suggested.

“It isn’t even noon,” she replied.

“So, who cares? I feel like celebrating.”

“Celebrating what, exactly?”

“Your happiness. Our friendship. Whatever we want.”

Before I could pull her towards the door the three females approached. Leenia’s carefree face turned into that of a bloodthirsty warrior. The ladies were dressed in fine jewels and silks. Their skin was flawless, as was their overpriced updos.

“Can we help you?” I asked sarcastically.

“Lady Duprev,” the leader of the pack spoke first, turning her attention to me. I recognized her from House Silar. Her father had been close with mine once. “What interesting company you choose to keep.”

“You have no idea,” I replied, taking a step forward.

She smirked, turning her eyes back to Leenia. “My husband has informed me,” she continued, “that one of the councilmen recently proposed a new law imposing death upon those, and their families, who threaten the crown. That would have taken care of your current problem.” She gestured languidly to Leenia.

Leenia’s father had gambled away some of the crown’s fortune, marking her family as traitors and thieves to the crown. She had been only fifteen when the offense occurred but had lived with the stain on her name her entire life. Dark alfar were not known for their forgiving spirits, and they loved a good tragedy.

Leenia went to step forward, but before she could do something that she regretted, I held out my arm, catching her before she took Lady Silar’s head clean off.

I smiled, placing my courtly mask in place. “You know,” I replied with a bright smile, “now that you mention it, I think I do recall hearing about that new proposal. Funny enough, I think I also heard it from your husband’s lips …”

Lady Silar’s smile fell as her eyes darkened.

“… in your bed, of all places. Ha.”

She said nothing. I continued. “I personally think it would be a great idea. It would protect our crowned prince who, as I’m sure you know, is Leenia’s and my closest friend. It would rid us of anyone who is sulking about the recent royal wedding and looking to do something stupid. And it would single out those truly loyal to Prince Lyklor and Princess Genevieve.”

Lady Silar remained silent. Her chest rose and fell rapidly. I had hit my intended target, as usual, and her silence was a welcome result. I smiled down at her tauntingly.

“Is there anything I can help you with?” I heard the store owner say from behind me.

“I didn’t realize,” spat Lady Silar, “that your establishment catered to riffraff,” She gestured to us. “If this is the clientele you are known for, I am afraid my circle and I will be forced to take our coffers elsewhere.”

The owner turned to me with a small, cold grin. “Lady Duprev, Miss Yost, I’m afraid—”

“Yea, yea,” I said, looping my arm through Leenia’s. “Don’t worry, we were just leaving.” I turned back to Lady Silar with a wicked grin firmly in place. “Tell Lord Silar I’ll be seeing him soon.” I began to walk away but couldn’t help myself. I turned over my shoulder, aiming one more shot. “Oh, and by the way, you must give me your decorator’s information. I love those new tapestries in your bedroom. And your body wash did wonders for my skin. Silky smooth, just the way your husband likes it.” I winked, pulling Leenia out of the store.

We stumbled out of sight just as Leenia fell into hysterical laughter. We leaned against an alleyway wall as we bent over, fighting to regain control of ourselves.

“You are a bitch,” Leenia spat.

“So, I’ve been told,” I replied, finally able to breathe.

“Her face was priceless. And the comment about her soap … I about lost it right then.”

“That stuck-up bitch deserved it. No one talks about my best friend that way.”

Leenia smirked, lacing her fingers with mine. “Thank you for sticking up for me.”

“Always,” I replied firmly. “Now, I do need to be getting back. My new target will be waiting for me soon enough.”

Leenia took my arm again as we strolled out of the city. “Who are you milking for information today?”

“Avalon Filarion,” I replied with a huff.

“About the queen’s behavior?”

“Yup. Time to find out why the queen has completely lost her shit.”

Leenia chuckled and shook her head sorrowfully.

“What is it?” I asked.

“Poor, little Avalon. He isn’t going to know what to do with you.”

I smiled. “Obviously.”

I strolled through the crowd at Lyria’s Den, the brothel Eren and I ran together deep inside the city. Sounds and smells of sex filled the air. Lavish furnishings and curtains saturated the open pit, providing a warm and alluring aesthetic. Plates of fresh fruit and desserts were scattered across the tables along with vats of wine.

Some of the females who I knew intimately smiled at me as I passed. I nodded my acknowledgement before proceeding towards my target. I turned down a hallway, illuminated by floor-to-ceiling funnels of fire every few feet. The ceiling above swirled with dark magic. I stopped at the back door, placing my hand on the handle. I took a deep breath, preparing myself for what needed to be done.

I shook my head, gathering my composure before clicking the lock open. Inside, a large circular mattress lay on top of a high wooden platform. Curtains hung around the edges of the bed. Chains hung from the ceiling with straps and other devices intended for restraining and positioning. Oils, waxes, and fragrances lined the tables, along with a few daggers and knives. Apparently, young Avalon liked it a bit rough.

I let the door slam behind me, catching the attention of the two human females and Avalon, who were just beginning their adventure. Their heads snapped in my direction. Avalon sat up quickly with a confused expression on his face.

“Sorry for the interruption,” I said, my voice dripping with promises of carnal pleasure. “But when I discovered you were visiting my den of ecstasy, I couldn’t help myself. Do you mind?”

Avalon remained silent, still unsure about my presence. The two women giggled, sliding off the bed and heading for the door. They stopped on either side of me. I bent down, passionately kissing each one before they exited. I locked the door behind them.

“Lady Duprev,” Avalon whimpered, trying to make his voice sound dominating. Azeer, he was a baby. “What do I owe this pleasure?”

I glided slowly towards the bed he sat in. I pulled the small black ribbon on my dress, building anticipation while the fabric fell open, revealing the little red number I knew would be his undoing. The fabric of the dress slid from my shoulders, leaving my curvaceous and full body on display. I moved my hair from my shoulders, allowing my full, supple breasts to take the stage. Avalon swallowed loudly, his eyes scanning every inch of my sinful body.

“Actually,” I whispered, leaning down on the edge of the bed. “I was hoping I could be the one to offer you pleasure.” I crawled across the mattress towards him. The young alfar trembled with anticipation. His dusty brown hair was already disheveled. His deep green eyes flickered from my face to my body, unsure where to look.

I crawled on top of him, straddling while reaching over him, allowing my breasts to graze his face. I picked up one of the knives on the headboard and turned my attention back to him.

“I was a bit hurt when I discovered you had visited my brothel and didn’t think to say hello.”

He licked his lips, placing his hands hesitantly on either of my legs.

“I didn’t think you had even noticed me, let alone wanted me to say hello,” he said, trying to sound confident.

I smiled, placing the tip of the knife against his chest. I applied pressure until blood appeared, then slid the knife down to his abdomen. He grimaced, but I felt him harden instantly underneath me. I bit down on the bottom of my lip and leaned into him. I licked the side of his face, trailing my suggestive tongue to his earlobe.

“Naughty lord,” I whispered.

Avalon gripped my ass with his hands as he pressed himself against my center. “I’ve dreamed about you so many times,” he admitted.

I chuckled, pulling away from him as I repositioned the knife against his collarbone, dragging the sharp blade down to his nipple. “Have you really?” I asked.

“Azeer,” he said, leaning back while he enjoyed the sensation.

I placed the knife out of his reach, replacing the blade with my lips as I kissed and licked my way up his slender, toned body. His hands began to explore my form, gripping and clawing at my more sensitive spots. I slid my hand along the side of his face, smashing my breasts against his chest. He held me close while I peered into the eyes of my unknowing next victim.

I felt it then. The small, yet powerful slither of my monster lurking underneath my skin. The shiver rattled up my spine, consuming my nervous system. My heart began to pump faster as my blood heated. My vision tunneled, focused on Avalon and his sexual desire. I could smell his testosterone in the air and Azeer, did I want to taste it. My nails elongated, tearing into the mattress as I bent my head down, my tongue tasting his wound.

I moaned with satisfaction while he watched. I closed my eyes, trying to remain in control, but the taste … it was overpowering. All-consuming in a way I knew would destroy me. Just one more lick. One more taste. I slid my nail against his flesh, ripping his skin in two. He grunted, but I didn’t care. I dragged my lips against the sweet, savory gash, allowing the warmth to fill me entirely.

“The rumors are true,” he said, snapping me out of my trance.

I pulled away, looking into his desperate, lustful eyes. “And what have you heard?”

“The males talk of your talents and the pleasures you offer. You're every male’s fantasy.”

I smiled, leaning over him, placing a hand on either side of his face. “And am I your fantasy, Lord Filarion?”

He trembled. “Gods, yes.”

I leaned in slowly, my song gathering in my chest. I lowered my lips to his, gently pressing my deadly kiss against his soft, fragile skin. A release billowed from me while I targeted the part of his brain I needed to complete my mission. I allowed my song to take him, trapping him in a web of euphoric pleasure. Avalon’s body shook violently underneath me as I wove my power through him, ensuring he would give me everything I asked for.

I cut my power off, giving myself a moment to recoup before sliding to the side of the young alfar. He remained on his back with a lazy smile drawn across his slender face. I traced my finger in circles on his chest, propping my head up on my elbow.

“Sweet Avalon,” I said softly.

“Yes,” he whispered, turning to face me.

“I’ve noticed your aunt, the queen, has not been herself. I’m concerned. What ails her?”

“My father says she has gone mad,” he replied, stating the obvious. “He works night and day to contain her from her own self destruction.”

“Destruction? Has she attempted suicide?”

“Worse. Treason.”

My interest was officially piqued. I sat up, grazing my fingers down the side of his face. Avalon closed his eyes, enjoying the contact. I focused on my power, my grip tightening around his hippocampus.

“But she is royal,” I stated. “How would she commit treason?”

“The half-breed bitch and Lyklor,” he replied. “She wishes to eliminate their claim to the throne, just like she did with the human lover.”

I furrowed my brow. “Human lover?” I asked softly. “The queen’s human lover?”

“No, the king’s human lover … Genevieve’s mother.” Shit .

“And how did our brilliant queen eliminate the king’s human?”

“She discovered the human whore fourteen years ago. She knew that if she brought her existence to the light, the king would bring the woman here to protect her. Nora wouldn’t stand for that. So, she took the king’s form and visited the human in The Frey. She used a benout insect, knowing the humans wouldn’t be able to identify the cause of death.”

I took a deep breath, trying to hold onto my facade. Evil bitch . “Who knows of this?”

“My father, his father when he was alive, and the queen. I overheard them talking about it a few weeks ago.”

“You are so brave, Avalon.” He smiled, his eyes fluttering closed. “And how does the queen plan to kill the prince and princess?”

“I’m not sure. I know she’s been meeting with a few houses to make Lyklor’s death look like an accident, but my father is still working out those details.”

“Which houses?” I whispered, brushing his hair across his face.

He smiled. “Sollerum. Gyset. Yositru.”

I smiled, leaning down to his ear. “Thank you, Avalon. Now, forget everything you’ve just shared with me. I came into the room, gave you the greatest pleasure of your life, and left without a word. We never spoke about anything else. Do you understand?”

He grinned. “I understand. Thank you,” he whispered, “for everything.”

“Sleep now, Avalon.”

He nodded, his head dropping to one side.