The air felt heavy, like a storm was brewing, as Lucian led me down a maze of twisty hallways. The stone walls felt like they were closing in, and they were so cold, like they knew I was scared. I kept my head down, trying to figure out what was going on. Each step felt harder than the one before.
We stopped at a big doorway with an arch. Two guards stood there, not smiling, but standing up straight and looking alert. When Lucian walked up, they moved out of the way at the same time and pushed the doors open.
The room inside was strange. I had never seen anything like it. Books and scrolls lined the walls on shelves. It smelled like old paper and ink, mixed with a little bit of wood smoke from the fireplace. In the middle of the room, there was a long table with a map spread out on it. Candles burned at each corner, making shadows that danced on the walls.
Lucian stopped short, and I almost ran into him. He turned his head a little, raising one eyebrow like he didn't approve.
This, he said, pointing to the room, is the war room.
War room? My stomach did a flip. What war? I wanted to ask, but I stopped myself. I had learned that asking questions just got me into more trouble.
You need to get used to this place, Lucian went on, walking toward the table. He picked up a small statue of a black dragon made of shiny black rock and put it on the map. Since you're going to be my wife, you'll have to come to meetings about strategy and give your... thoughts.
Thoughts? I repeated before I could think.
Lucian looked at me quickly, and for a second, I thought I had gone too far. But instead of getting mad, he smiled – a cold, fake smile that made me shiver.
Yes, he said. You've always been good at seeing things other people miss. That's one reason you're still here.
I swallowed hard, not knowing what to say. The Seraphina he remembered might have been clever and sharp, but I was just... me. And I didn't know how to play this game.
Before I could worry about it too much, the door opened again, and a woman walked in. She was tall and pretty, with dark hair braided up and bright blue eyes that seemed to look right through me. She wore a smooth, red dress that stood out against the pale colors of the room.
Ah, Lady Evelyne, Lucian said. He didn't sound happy or unhappy, and his face didn't give anything away. You're just in time.
Lady Evelyne glanced at me, and her lips turned up in a smile that wasn't friendly at all.
So, this is the famous Seraphina, she said. Her voice was as smooth as silk, but it had a sharp edge. I've heard so much about you.
I forced myself to smile nicely, but my hands clenched into fists. I hope it was all good, I said, trying to sound casual.
Evelyne's smile got wider, and she stepped closer. Of course. But I have to say, I thought you would be more... wild. I always thought you'd have more spirit.
It was a sly insult, and it stung. My face got hot, but before I could say anything, Lucian spoke up, cutting through the tension.
Enough, he said, his voice sharp. Seraphina is here to help, not to deal with silly arguments.
Evelyne nodded, but her eyes told me she wasn't done.
Of course, my lord, she said, backing away. I'll let you have your... talk.
As she turned to leave, she stopped next to me and leaned in close so only I could hear.
Watch out, she whispered, her breath warm against my ear. In this place, no one is loyal.
Her words made me cold, but I wouldn't let her see that I was afraid. I stood up straighter and lifted my chin, watching as she walked out of the room.
Once she was gone, Lucian turned to me. You should listen to what she said, he said, looking serious. This palace is full of snakes, and Evelyne is one of the worst.
I nodded, my mind racing. If Evelyne was dangerous, what did that make Lucian? And how was I supposed to get through all this lying and survive?
Lucian looked at me for a moment before pointing to the map. Now, let's see how good you really are at this.
As I walked closer to the table, I felt the weight of everything pressing down on me. I wasn't just trying to stay alive anymore. I was trying to be smarter than a king and everyone who worked for him. And I didn't know if I could do it.