Page 65 of Hell Fae Commander

I might display a calm and nonchalant exterior, but I could more than protect myself against threats. Present company included.

Most fae made the mistake of fearing only Ty.

Zakkai’s little exploration should have ensured he didn’t make that common error in judgment. However, I suspected Zakkai didn’t fear anyone. It wasn’t arrogance on his part, simply confidence.

And confidence, I could respect.

“I’m going to be visiting often,” I informed him. “At least for as long as Cami is here.” I met his silver-blue gaze. “She’s my intended. And now, it doesn’t break the rules.”

Because she was officially mated to a Midnight Fae. Which made her a welcome fae in this realm.

And as her other mate—the bonding level didn’t matter—I was allowed to follow her here now, too.

“At least according to the new Interrealm Fae laws, of which this realm is now following,” I added aloud. “Yes?”

Zakkai didn’t reply, his gaze assessing as he tested my power once more.

I allowed the intrusion, amused by his continued attempts to play with my inner spirit. It didn’t matter how many times he attempted to manipulate my magic; the strands simply snapped right back into place.

Because I was no ordinary fae.

Something he clearly already knew.

“Well. As I said, I’ll be stopping by frequently for now,” I went on, not bothered at all by his continued silence. “For at least as long as Ajax keeps Camillia in this realm.”

Still nothing. Not even a hint of interest.

His stoic expression was admirable. As was his persistence in meddling with my abilities.

Zakkai was the strongest Midnight Fae in existence. Although, I suspected his queen rivaled him in his abilities. Her mating circle was exceptional.

Which was why I’d been very pleased when Ty began making deals with them—starting with his recruitment of Ajax and his deal with Zakkai to rewrite the Warden’s powers.

However, that didn’t mean Zakkai or his circle trusted us.

Perhaps that’ll change someday.

Or maybe their distrust will be warranted.

Hmm. A lot of that depends on Cami and Ty.

I canted my head to the side. “I think the Interrealm Fae Ball might be a good deadline for us all. That’ll give Ty a few weeks to calm down. It’ll also provide me with enough time to ensure Cami’s properly prepared to deal with him when they see each other again.”

Of course, it would take some doing on my part to convince Ty to leave her and Ajax alone for that long.Unless…

“Would you and your circle agree with honoring Camillia and Ajax as guests for that long?” I asked Zakkai. “Because if you did, then they would be considered esteemed guests of the Midnight Fae Royal Circle. And no one would wish to dishonor such an invitation.”

Not even a Hell Fae King,I mused to myself.

He folded his arms and leaned against the wall, still silent.

If he thought this would intimidate me, he was wrong.

I excelled at games. Especially ones involving power and posturing.

“Perhaps you’ll determine my origin by the Interrealm Fae Ball, what with my frequent visits and all. Assuming Camillia and Ajax will be remaining here, I mean.” I smiled. “I could tell you, if you prefer. That might be the only way for you to determine my ancient ancestry.”

He plucked at another one of my Virtuous Fae strands, his grasp sharper than before.