The throne room was filled with the nobility court members as the general gave the latest reports of those on the frontline. He was reporting on the current state of the army, but most were not listening as they wondered if there would ever be an end. The air was thick with tension as the weight of decades of ruthless wars began to wear the kingdom down. Avilian was the largest of the human kingdoms and the main provider to the human army that fought against the violent demon hordes. The two species had been at odds for hundreds of years. Any attempt at peace being only a fleeting one that never lasted more than a few years at best. The most recent Demon King was especially ruthless and seemed determined to annihilate the human race.

  It was only the two that seemed at odds as there were peace treaties among all other territories, even with the demon kingdom. It was only the two largest that seemed incapable of reaching a lasting agreement. Due to those treaties and constant fighting, the other kingdoms had chosen to remain neutral in the wars, remaining cordial while keeping a sharp eye for signs of threats aimed towards them. This meant that no aid would come from the highly, magically adept elves or the machinery inclined Fullangr. They were on their own, but how much longer could they hold out this time?

  A sudden flash of light blinded them as red smoke filled the center of the throne room, filling the air with a sulfuric burn. Kneeling in the center was a man…or at first glance what looked like a man. The very distinct curved horns running along the top of his head and folded red wings were definitely not human. The general drew his sword immediately and ordered the other knights in the throne room to surround the threat.

  Eveleen had moved in front of the king and princess as well, her palms glowing softly as she readied her magic should the need arise. It wouldn’t be enough to kill the threat, but may slow it down long enough for the two to escape. The demon slowly rose from his kneeling position and raised up both his hands, palms out. Eveleen saw this first and shouted, “Wait!” When the knights made to rush the demon. They stopped and looked to her confused and the general glanced back annoyed that his orders had been overridden.

  She wasn’t sure why, but something was telling her that they shouldn’t react rashly. She was also fascinated at the sight before her. It was unnerving to see a demon so close and how he was nothing like she had thought they would. She had always assumed they looked like the illustrations in the books she studied. But apart from the horns, wings and fangs he looked like any other human. Fully standing now, hands still up in a surrendering position, he looked around and grinned-fangs flashing.

  “Well, at least one of you humans is civilized.” The demon said, red eyes landing on her. Eveleen's glare sharpened, not responding. Unfazed the demon began to reach into the inside of his vest. The motion made all the knights tense and step closer. The demon slowly pulled out a rolled up parchment and held it up for them to see.

  “I am only a messenger sent to deliver this. It is an offer that I think you will be most pleased with.” He said and held the missive up in invitation out towards the throne. The king nodded and one of the knights took the parchment and brought it back to him to read. Eveleen heard him suck in a breath and noticed that the demon grinned as well, meaning he had heard it despite the distance.

  “Impossible.” He said and looked to the demon who was smirking at them now as he bowed with a flourish, crossing his arm in front of him as he bent forward.

  “No, just improbable. His highness is quite serious in his decision. King Ronnek wishes to make peace.” The demon announced and murmurs immediately swept through the room. Eveleen frowned,

  “Ronnek? That was not the Demon King’s name.” She said, suspicion clear in her voice. The demon looked back to her and smiled, nodding.

  “True. However, there has been a change in power and the new king wishes to end this war. He is offering a deal that would ensure a permanent peace between our two territories. You may offer your sincere gratitude now.” He said, bowing sarcastically once more, his blonde ponytail falling over his shoulder as he did. Eveleen finally took her eyes off the demon to look back at the king who was still staring at the message in disbelief and she noticed his knuckles were turning white with how hard he was gripping the parchment.

  “I’m waiting.” Growled the demon and she looked back to see him staring up at them annoyed, still bowed. She stepped over, blocking the king from view, drawing those red eyes to her once more.

  “Forgive us for being rude. However, I’m sure you understand that this is a lot to absorb out of seemingly nowhere. If you could relay to King…Ronnek, that we would like at least the consideration to allow a response by tomorrow morning.” She said and it seemed to amuse the demon as his red eyes danced with mirth as he straightened.

  “Of course. We are not unreasonable. I shall let my king know you are simply shocked with joy and need a moment to fully come to terms with this grandiose announcement. We have much to prepare as well, so the extra time is not unwelcome.” There was another bright flash and just as suddenly as he had arrived, he disappeared. Eveleen released the breath she had been holding and turned fully to face the king. He was frowning at the parchment and his lips were set in a hard line.

  Odette knelt down and placed her hand worriedly on his arm, “Father? What is it?” She whispered and he shook his head, covering his eyes suddenly. His next words froze them all,

  “A marriage proposal.”

  ____________________________________________________________

  “You cannot be considering this!?” Eveleen shouted. They had moved to the king’s chambers and now it was only her, Odette and Abram. Odette held out her hands to her and sighed.

  “What choice do I have? He wants to form an alliance through marriage and it is my duty to the people.” Odette argued and Eveleen held out her own hands to reason with the woman.

  “Duty be damned! Odette this isn’t right! You were to be married to Edward! He’ll be heartbroken if you go through with this.” At the mention of her beloved fiance, Odette flinched back and tears filled her eyes. She didn’t concede though and shook her head.

  “He specified a union between the royal families. That means me, Eveleen. Edward is a smart, kind man he-he will understand…why I must do this.” She whispered, her voice shaking and giving away how not okay she was with this arrangement. Eveleen looked to the king for support and he hummed in thought.

  “I agree with you Eveleen, however I see no alternative. If we want to do what’s best for the people and end the suffering these wars are causing then we will need to accept his proposal. Odette, sweet daughter…I am sorry, but it must be done.” He said, hugging his daughter. She returned the hug, tears spilling from her eyes and Eveleen felt her own eyes sting.

  It was logical that it was such a small price to pay for the peace of the entire territory, but she refused to accept the exact price. Odette had so much to leave behind if she went to the Demon King. She had a man who loved her and whom she loved with her entire being. She had a father, friends and subjects that would mourn the loss of their beautiful princess. No…there was no way she was accepting this as ‘the way it has to be’.

  She owed these two people her life. King Abram took her in as a child. She was wandering the streets with no memory of who she was or where she came from. Then she had been caught stealing from the royal kitchens, desperate for something to eat. She had attacked the knight with magic on instinct and when the king heard he asked if she would like to stay there and learn to better control her gift. He had given her the name Eveleen and took her in as an adopted daughter while watching over her studies.

  Magic users were rare among humans and revered as gifts from the Heavens to give humans a fighting chance in this crazy world. She had been apprehensive at first, but the king was a gentle man and Odette had treated her like a sister rather than an intruder. The two had become her family in the absence of the memories surrounding her past life. She loved them so much and would do anything to repay their kindness. An idea scratched at the corners of her mind and she frowned as she knew it was risky. She looked at the two people that meant everything to her. Odette noticed her staring and held out her arm, inviting her into the hug. Eveleen felt her heart twist and she went to them, feeling their warmth wrap around her. It was all she needed to solidify her determination and what she would do.

  “I will protect you both with the knowledge I have gained and the secrets I have learned.”

  __________________________________________________________

  Eveleen knocked on the door to the princess’ room where she was supposed to be getting ready to depart. After sending word that they were accepting King Ronnek’s proposal, they were informed that in three days time someone would be sent to retrieve the bride. There was no response and Eveleen frowned, turning the door handle and entering slowly.

  “Odette? Are you in-” Her words cut off as her cheeks brightened along with the two lovers who separated immediately. Eveleen shot Edward an apologetic look, wishing she could tell him that he needn’t worry, but that would ruin her plan.

  “I’m sorry. But I was hoping to have a moment with my sister to…to say goodbye.” She whispered, not lying. Edward nodded and cast one final heartbroken glance at Odette before exiting the room. Eveleen waited until she was sure he was gone and not waiting outside the door before she turned to the other woman. Odette looked like a pale shadow of herself. Her eyes were sunken in and the light in their blue depths were gone. Her pale blonde hair fell flat, missing the bouncy curls that once framed her lovely face. Tears pooled in the princess’ eyes and Eveleen could tell she was desperately trying to hold them back. She went to the woman that had become her big sister and wrapped her arms around her, hushing her as she crumbled into raspy sobs.

  "Oh Eveleen. What am I to do? In only a few moments…my home. Everything will be taken from me. I thought I had resolved myself to this, but-but…" She broke off, covering her mouth to suppress another sob.

  “Odette. Everything will be okay. I promise it will."

  "No. It won't. I don't even know what this Ronnek will be like. What if he's as cruel and violent as his father was and this is all a trap!" Odette fretted and Eveleen stroked her hair, not countering her words as she had wondered the same thing. Which was also why-

  "I need you to know that I love you and father so much. Please tell him that for me.” Eveleen whispered, feeling her heart twist as she realized there was a chance she would never see either of them again. Odette pulled back, sniffling and staring down at Eveleen in confusion.

  “Evie…why would I need to tell father-” The words cut off as the princess gasped, the golden mist surrounding her head making her eyelids heavy. Eveleen gently eased the woman to the ground as she fought the sleep spell taking over.

  “Evie…what are-why…don’t do this.” Odette slurred, the magic impossible to fight as she fell into a deep sleep that would last just long enough. Eveleen kissed her sister’s cheek and whispered back,

  “Forgive me. But I can’t think of any other way.” She stood up and looked at her reflection in the mirror. She would need to work quickly as someone was set to come to the room soon. She took a deep breath and began to chant the words needed to change herself. Gold light swirled around her, shimmering as the magic altered her appearance. Her red hair lightened until it looked like it had been kissed by the sun and her green eyes shifted to a deep blue. She took a deep breath as she stared at the mirror and Odette stared back.

  The spell wouldn’t last forever, but it would serve what she needed. She looked down at her sleeping ‘twin’ and smiled, kneeling down and cupping her cheek.

  “I’m sorry that I didn’t tell you my plan. I knew you would do everything to stop me and I couldn’t risk this one chance we both have. Live happily ever after for me okay.” A soft knock at the door alerted her that it was time.

  _________________________________________________________

  Heads turned as ‘Princess Odette’ stepped out into the sunlight and many were openly weeping as they watched their treasured rose make her way down the steps, heading for the party that was waiting to steal her away. She flinched back at the beast harnessed to the otherwise normal looking carriage. It was shaped like a horse, three times the size and covered in scales instead of fur. The four golden eyes on the side of its head gleamed as it struggled against the metal bit in its mouth. Flashing carnivorous teeth briefly as it tossed its massive head, its black mane swishing to the other side of its long neck.

  She swallowed, but managed to remain composed as she turned to face her father.

  "My darling Odette, I wish it could be different."

  "I understand. It has to be done and I'm the only who can do this."

  "I always thought when I saw you off to be married it would be a bittersweet day…and the Eveleen would be here. Where could-"

  "Evie was so distraught when we said our goodbyes that I told her to stay behind. She is in my chambers and will need you once I'm gone."

  He nodded and gave her one final desperate hug, whispering how sorry he was and that he was so proud of her. The words made tears fill her own eyes and she whispered back,

  The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

  “Thank you for all you’ve done for me father, I will carry all you’ve taught me and survive this. I promise.” She knew that was not a promise she could guarantee, but pulled back, turning to the other man she needed to say goodbye to. Edward was there as captain of the king’s personal guard and so she was lucky she would get to say a brief word to him as well, only hoping he would understand. She hugged him and whispered in his ear,

  “Thank you. Please look after my father and sister for me. I’m trusting you with this, my little ward.” She noticed the way his eyes widened and she cupped his cheek affectionately before turning from him, happy he had caught the nickname she had always used for him.

  Waiting for her was the same demon that had delivered the first message and he opened the door for her, offering his hand as well. She frowned, but allowed him to help her into the carriage and took her seat. She glanced out the window as the door closed and felt tears pricking at the corners of her eyes.

  A loud crack filled the air and the carriage jolted as the beast jumped straight into a gallop, quickly taking her away from her home. She finally allowed the tears to fall silently as there was no longer anyone to put on a brave face for. She looked out at the scenery that flew by at their reckless pace. She jumped when a face swung down peering at her through the window. The demon gave her an upside down grin,

  “Forgive me princess. We were unsure how your human body would react to being teleported by our magic so we chose the second fastest mode of transport. We shall arrive at the castle in only a few hours. I recommend you get some rest during that time.” He said and she nodded, frowning at the absurdity of the ‘gesture’ of concern from the beast. Considering they were basically kidnapping her away from her family and home.

  No. That wasn’t entirely fair and she knew that this was her decision. Still, she didn’t respond beyond a nod. Not that the demon seemed to need a response as he disappeared from sight again. The ride was rough and the jostling made it worse with their speed that it was impossible for her to rest even if her heart could slow down long enough to allow such a reprieve.

  Just as she was beginning to worry she would embarrass herself by retching all over the inside of the carriage it began to slow. She thanked the heavens and lifted up the curtains to peek out. She had lowered them as the blurs flying by had made her more dizzy and sick. Homes and shops lined the road and she wondered if they were passing through another human village before entering the demon territory.

  Her eyes widened when the people began to turn at the carriage and openly stare in amazement. Their varied appearances mimicked humans, but just as with the man riding on the top of the carriage there were giveaway details that she was inside the demon kingdom and these were its subjects.

  She swallowed against the nervous knot that had solidified in her chest as she leaned back from the window. She kept telling herself that it was fine, that it would work out, but there was always a chance that what she had read was wrong. After all, the people didn’t look like she had thought and the kingdom looked like any other. She was beginning to worry that she wouldn’t be able to fulfill her duty.

  “No. Don’t start doubting yourself now. You made a vow to protect those you love. Father. Odette. I will make sure you all live safe lives, even if it costs me mine.”

  ___________________________________________________________

  She was immediately brought to a building that looked like a temple. She took a moment to admire the building which wasn’t the traditional white marble, but instead was a polished granite. It was still very impressive and had an aura of authority surrounding the building. She glanced back at the massive castle that towered over everything else. Nothing compared to that building which she would soon call home.

  She was guided through the long hallways and chanced glances around the room, noting the artwork that depicted what she assumed were moments in history. At least if this were like a human temple.

  One tapestry caught her attention and she stopped walking, turning towards it fully. Her eyes widened at the magnificently stitch beast. Golden eyes glinting with hidden intelligence as its long, slender neck wound down the tapestry's length. Fire dancing around the ancient one as it seemed to stare directly into her soul. At the bottom was an inscription and she read the words in her mind.

  "Let the mind be free of the Earth and the body shall soar to the Heavens. Defy all laws of nature if that be your will" She smiled softly, not being able to help herself.

  "Princess?" She was jolted from her wandering and turned to see the demon staring at her with a raised brow, glancing up at the tapestry briefly before a frown formed between his brows. She quickly lowered her head and began to follow again. She had to be careful for now and act as a demure, frightened princess. The large double doors at the end of the hallway were pulled open and she looked up to see him waiting for her.

  Taller than any of the other demons she had passed. He was built like a soldier and she wondered if he had ever been to the battlefield during the war. His horns curved along his head before flaring at the end, pointing towards the sky. His hair looked like the night's darkness as it swept down his back, between his large, folded wings. They reminded her of the beasts' on the tapestry except that they matched his hair. When he looked up and locked his crimson red eyes on her she swallowed against the knot in her throat.

  "Well, the frightened part won't be difficult to fake."

  ________________________________________________________

  Ronnek turned as the doors opened, signaling it was time. His breath caught as they revealed a vision like no other. Her beauty had only blossomed over the years and he felt his heart skip at the sight of her.

  He had never dreamed this could be a reality, but he had gained enough power and support to take control of his fate. He felt a small smile pull at his lips as she walked closer, her ocean blue eyes watching him apprehensively.

  He knew this was expected. She was frightened and unsure of everything suddenly happening. For her it was all out of nowhere, but for him…he had dreamed of nothing else since he was a boy.

  She was brought to his side and the Soothsayer began the ceremony. He didn't listen to the words, having heard them so many times and chose to instead watch his bride. Her fingers were clasped together and he saw them tremble slightly. She was holding herself together though as there were no tears in her eyes, only a gleam of determination.

  He couldn't help the grin at the steel hidden in his bride. He had always known she had it in her. She chanced a glance at him and caught him watching her. Her eyes widened and a faint dusting of pink spread across her cheeks.

  It would take time, but she would grow accustomed to life here with him. He would do everything in his power to gain her heart. All he needed was her here, where he could at least try.

  The ceremony reached the final part and he turned to face his bride fully. Odette. His sweet Odette. She mimicked him hesitantly and flinched slightly when he lifted the blade on the table. His eyes locked with hers again and he read the fear in them.

  "Do not worry." He soothed and watched as her cheeks heated more. He held up the blade. It was intimidating if you did not know its purpose. The black blade was made to mimic a slithering snake rather than a straight edge. There were red ancient runes etched into it from hilt to tip. They would be the source of the ancient magic that would bind them, and their kingdoms together.

  “We only need to make a small cut into the palm of the hand and recite the words that will bind you both to them.” The Soothsayer nodded, her braided strands rocking with the motion. She held out her hand to Ronnek,

  “You first, your majesty.” Ronnek nodded and placed the blade along his left palm. He didn’t need to put any pressure as the blade was kept in pristine condition at all times. The cut was small, but deep enough to draw blood. He looked at his bride and noticed some of the resolve in her eyes had faded as she looked to the red line marking his hand. He hesitated in handing her the blade and whispered,

  “Would you prefer me to do it for you? It does not need to be self-inflicted.” She startled and looked up at him and his breath caught as those sapphires shined at him. He found himself just admiring them when he swore he saw them shift to emerald. It was the briefest moment and if he hadn’t been staring so deeply, he would have missed it. Before he could fully grasp what he had seen, she lowered her eyes and took the blade from him.

  “Thank you, but…I know what I must do here.” She whispered and held up her right palm, the blade in her left. She took in a calming breath and only winced slightly as the blade sliced her delicate skin. She placed the blade back on the table and looked up at him again with those deep, blue eyes. Ronnek reached out and linked their hands together, his larger fingers sliding along her slender ones, pressing their palms together. Immediately, when their blood mixed he felt a bolt of heat centered at their joined hands.

  “Now we bind these two souls together as well as the destiny of two kingdoms.” The Soothsayer said, then switched to their language, speaking the spell that would bind his and her people together in peace. This was not a normal marriage ceremony as the magic swirled around their hands. This was his promise to her that everything he had done was to ensure her the peaceful life she deserved.

  “Speak your vow now, your highness. You may speak it so the princess understands if you wish.” She said and he frowned, wanting Odette to know what he was saying, but knowing the spell would be more effective if he spoke it in the proper language.

  “With this bond, I vow that never again will the demonkind strive for the annihilation of the human race. Should any hold such malice in their hearts, they will be stripped of all magic within them. They will lose their demon strength and stand equal to those they seek to harm. Finally, they will be stripped of their last connection to the ancient ones and be bound to the Earth, denied the Heavens and freedom above.

  “And I vow to you. That I will hold you dear in my heart. I will forsake all other creatures, save you. You shall be my mate for all eternity as I will never swear my heart to another. I will make sure to do all within my power to protect you from any that seek you harm and will love you until I breathe my last breath.”

  The second vow was not a part of the spell, but he wanted to make it as it was truly how he felt and only wished she could understand. He noticed that she was staring at him differently and the blush to her cheeks was a full crimson now as she swallowed. He wondered what her guarded look meant, but couldn’t read it fully. Then it was her turn and the Soothsayer told her what to say. She nodded and took a deep breath before speaking clearly. He was impressed that she spoke the words well, only a slight accent as she spoke the foreign tongue.

  “With this bond, I vow that never again will any man or woman strive for the destruction of the demonfolk. Should any hold such malice in their hearts they shall be struck with the curse of ages. All strength shall leave their body as they grow frail and meek. Let those that seek to end this peace be stripped of their ability to ever hold a weapon again. They shall be as frail as the dust that floats in the wind.” She said and then looked at him and shocked him when her fingers tightened around his. He looked at their hands and frowned as he swore he saw specks of gold mixed in with the red.

  The Soothsayer clapped her hands together, finishing the chanting that would seal the spell into finality. They unconsciously held tighter as the force of the magic felt like it was searing their flesh as it grew brighter. When it was over, their hands held the red runes of the vow wrapped around them as if they had been inked into the skin.

  “Now for the actual binding of this marriage per demon law. Your highness.” The Soothsayer gestured and he swallowed, not understanding why he was suddenly more nervous. This should be the easier part compared to the ancient spell they had just cast and the dangers of it going wrong. He slowly released his hold on her hand, leaving his fingers there in a gentle touch as they slowly slid up her arm.

  She didn’t flinch away as his hand reached her neck and softly brushed back her hair. He could faintly hear her heart rate increase and felt his own match the temp as he leaned closer to her. He applied the slightest pressure of his fingers to tilt her neck, exposing the juncture at her shoulder for him. She wasn’t fighting or struggling as if she knew what was coming and accepted him. He felt his blood heat and growled low in his chest as he opened his mouth, his fangs flashing before sinking into her sweet flesh. She gasped and bit back a cry as first the pain of the bite hit her. Then he heard her let out a soft moan and he growled again in answer as his magic sealed her to him as his mate.

  When he pulled back and looked at her neck, there was no wound. Only an intricate seal that was unique to him, marking her as his mate, warning all others away. She was officially his bride…his queen…his mate. And he breathed a sigh of relief that after all these years of struggle, it was over. He opened his eyes and smiled, surprising her by pressing his forehead to hers and whispering,

  “Finally, Odette…you are mine.”

  _______________________________________________________________

  Eveleen fretted inside the chambers that had been given to her as she knew time was running out. She could feel the magic running out and soon she would be exposed. She didn’t know what would happen, but she knew that the king would rightfully be furious at having been tricked. She blushed as she remembered his words. She had understood every word and had felt a stab of guilt at the sincerity in them, knowing she was not the woman they were meant for.

  She had expected it to be like a trip to the market. A brief exchange of words before the transaction was complete and both parties were satisfied. She had not been expecting him to vow his heart to her…well to Odette. This was more complicated than she had first thought. She had assumed that even if he had chosen Odette as she was the princess of the largest kingdom, but now it made sense as she wasn’t the only human princess available.

  The king held affection for her sister and had chosen her because of it, not because of a political union. She bit her lip in worry and paced more as she felt another stab of guilt. It was unfair, but even if she had known this fact it wouldn’t have changed her decision. After all, Odette did not feel the same and had love in her heart for another. Eveleen would have still taken her place and left to be married in her stead. The mark at her neck heated and she blushed, reaching up to run her fingers along the spot.

  She had read of demon bonding, but had no idea of the sensation that would follow. How could she? Humans only had the vaguest knowledge of demonfolk and so she could never have guessed the heat it had filled her with. She had felt the sensation pool low in her stomach and even now it caused her to react nervously, unsure of the strange, conflicting feeling raging inside her.

  The door latch clicked and she startled, turning to see Ronnek coming inside. She swallowed again as she looked up into his crimson eyes. She had never felt so small before as this male towered over her and seemed to make the room they were in feel tighter.

  “Are you cold?” He asked and she frowned, caught off guard by the question and he gestured to her slight trembling. She wrapped her arms across her chest and shook her head.

  “N-No…just…uneasy.” She answered honestly and he hummed, scratching the back of his head and she swore she saw a faint blush at his ears. He looked at her and smiled softly. He moved closer and slowly raised his arms, making his intent to touch her known and she felt another stab of guilt, slightly mixed with fear. He was being so gentle because he thought she was Odette, would it last when he learned the truth? He rested his hands on her upper arms, caressing them as if they would break under his fingertips.

  “I can understand that much at least. But do not fear princess, for I will not harm you. I-I have longed for this moment for so long. The last thing I would want is to hurt or frighten you. I promise that I will not hurt you little one.” He whispered and tried to draw her to him, but she resisted and shook her head, taking a step back so that she was not in his grasp.

  “You cannot promise me that.” She said and sighed. He frowned and opened his mouth to speak, but she held up her hand to stop him. She could feel the last of the magic fade and looked up at him, her fear on full display now.

  “Don’t promise me that until you know the full truth.” She said and watched as his eyes widened while gold swirled around her once more. Only this time it was drifting outwards, taking the changes with it. Her hair darkened and returned to the fiery strands they had been before and she knew her eyes were returning to the green from before as they looked to the king.

  He took a step back before his stance completely changed and his eyes sharpened. Hardening in anger as he growled, flashing his fangs. His hands that had touched her so gently were balled into fists at his side, shaking slightly.

  “What sorcery is this?” He spat, his fury seeping into his voice, making it even deeper and darker than before. Before she could answer he was on her, moving faster than she could ever hope to react. She gasped, grabbing the wrist of the hand that held her neck with both hands, feebly attempting to pull it away. He growled and drew her to him, his eyes darkening. She struggled against his grip, but there was no way she could ever match a demon and the spell had used most of her mana that there was no spell powerful enough to push him back.

  “You humans tricked me. I came to you in good faith and you decide to fool me? Even if it cost me my wings I will destroy that old man who dared to-”

  “My father had nothing to do with this! Nor did Odette. I acted alone! This was all my plan and they had no part in it. If you must punish someone, punish me, but leave them alone!” She cried out and he growled, his grip tightening. She coughed, struggling to draw in a breath. Suddenly the mark at her neck burned brightly and he snarled, releasing her so that she dropped to the floor. She choked in air, hand clasped to her throat as it burned with each draw of breath. She looked up at him as he held his wrist in his other hand, glaring down at her.

  “It shouldn’t count…Why did you do this? If it’s as you claim and you acted alone, what good did you expect to come of this?” He demanded and she took in a deep breath, forcing herself to her feet again. She stumbled slightly and noticed he almost went to her, but seemed to force himself back, cursing under his breath.

  “I wanted to protect my sister. This marriage had to happen in order for there to be peace among our kind, but Odette is in love with another.” She heard him take in a breath and release it in a low growl. She felt another sting of pity and must have let it leak into her eyes because his own hardened further before turning them away.

  “I love my sister and so I decided to take her place so that she may have a chance at happiness, and I believed that once I told you what I can do you wouldn’t be so angry with being tricked. I’m sorry. I didn’t know that-that-”

  “That this marriage was not just a political union to me.” He growled and she flinched back, nodding. Silence filled the room in a thick tension as neither spoke further for several ticks of the clock. Finally, he looked at her again, eyes narrowed.

  “What did you mean once I learned what you can do? What could you possibly offer that would have made you think I’d be okay with being made into a fool?” It was the words she was waiting for and with a deep breath she straightened.

  “I can read Ancient Draconian.”

  “Liar.” He hissed, stepping towards her again, but she didn’t flinch from the threat and instead spoke back.

  "Let the mind be free of the Earth and the body shall soar to the Heavens. Defy all laws of nature if that be your will" She said in Demon tongue and he stopped, eyes widening.

  “How did you…that tapestry…even I cannot read it and only know it because of history books.”

  “I told you. I don’t know why or how, but I can read the ancient tongue of the Dragons. If you agree to leave Odette and my people alone, then I will help you obtain what demons have coveted for eons.” She stepped closer to him and placed her finger against the center of his chest and heard him take in another sharp breath. The sound made her heart skip and the mark on her neck sizzled with heat.

  “I will help you find your ancestors' lost magic and return it to your people. I will make you all whole again.”