Page 49 of King of Forest and Fur

Leila straightened herself up and addressed everyone in the room.

“It’s true. He admitted everything to me once I was down here. I thought we were going to a private study of his, but he wanted the same thing Drystan wanted.”

“To go back in time? Why?” Rehn asked.

“He believed that the natural order of things had been affected due to unnecessary events in history. He wanted to ‘make it right.’ Honestly, it all sounds so crazy to me.”

Rehn noticed Chaniel nodding in agreement, but Tressa was shaking her head.

“I’m a fool for not seeing it sooner. It makes sense. There are many people out there who believe that sorcerers should be the almighty power. That there is a natural pyramid scheme to our lives. I often forgot how old he was and what beliefs might be instilled in him.”

“Everything is always clearer in hindsight,” Rehn offered. “Everyone seemed to be rather swooned by him.”

Tressa turned to the king and smiled. “I’m just glad you and your man were able to figure out the truth before it was too late. Who knows the kind of butterfly effect that would have come from Xanthus’s meddling.”

“I want to know why he let Drystan escape just to harm you if he needed you,” Rehn mentioned as he stepped back to Leila’s side.

Even though the threat was past, he still felt the need to protect her. He always would.

Leila’s voice was quiet. “He said he thought me being frightened would trigger my powers.”

“So he threatened your life?” Rehn growled.

If Xanthus hadn’t been dead already, he’d kill him.

“We know he was wrong though,” Leila said.

“How?” Tressa asked, interrupting the two.

Rehn saw Leila begin to blush so he answered for her.

“Our bond.”

Tressa’s eyes widened while Idris smiled behind them all.

“She’s your mate?” Tressa asked, shocked.

“My fated mate to be exact,” Rehn answered proudly.

“It’s true,” Leila peeped up. “I felt it myself, even though I didn’t know what it was. But it’s our bond that enhances my powers, not fear.”

Tressa smirked. “Ah, so love, not fear, rules over all.”

Rehn got nervous when he heard her say love. He knew he loved Leila, but he had just told her about being mates. Was love too heavy right now for her?

Thankfully, she seemed unfazed by Tressa’s comment.

“Leila, I’m going to need a full statement from you and King Rehn as soon as possible. That way everything is still fresh. You two.” She snapped at the two men with her. “I need you to dispose of Xanthus. We will make a public announcement telling the truth about him, but not until after certain things are handled. We don’t need an uprising. He was very well respected after all. This is going to come hard to the community.”

“Well, we have proof. We can help you with the public announcement,” Rehn offered. He usually wouldn’t get involved with the politics of others. He had enough on his plate. But he was feeling generous and it would help Leila. So, he saw it as a win-win.

“Thank you, Your Majesty. That would be helpful.” Tressa looked around. She was satisfied with what was being done around her, so she clapped her hands together.

“Now, if you don’t mind, let’s get the statements so you two lovebirds can be on your way.”

“But what about my classes here?” Leila asked as they followed Tressa out.

“Don’t worry about it right now. You aren’t fired. This is just an extended leave to help you get settled in your new life.” The director turned and gave them a genuine smile. “I’m happy for you, Leila. Now come!”

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