Page 17 of Quick on the Claw

SEVEN

The Larkana Palace loomed before them, a breathtaking fusion of organic architecture and ethereal beauty. Towering spires of living wood intertwined with crystalline structures that seemed to capture and refract the light of Nova Aurora’s twin suns. Zak couldn’t help but smile as he watched Tiffany’s eyes widen in awe, her lips parting in a silent gasp of wonder.

“Welcome to my home,” he said, his deep voice tinged with pride. “I hope you’ll find it to your liking.”

Tiffany turned to him, her gray eyes sparkling with excitement. “It’s... incredible. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Zak felt a surge of warmth in his chest at her obvious delight. He wanted to show her everything, to see that same look of wonder on her face as she experienced all the marvels his kingdom had to offer. But first, introductions were in order.

As they approached the palace entrance, two figures emerged to greet them. One was a regal woman with silver hair and golden amber eyes that matched Zak’s own. The other was a towering man with dark skin and an imposing physique, his gray eyes scanning their surroundings with alert vigilance.

“Tiffany, Sia,” Zak said, gesturing to the woman, “I’d like you to meet my mother, Queen Astra Larkana. And this,” he nodded toward the man, “is Draven Ferxi, head of the Royal Guard and my closest friend.”

Astra stepped forward, her smile warm and welcoming. “It’s a pleasure to meet you both. We’ve been eagerly awaiting your arrival.”

Tiffany gave a small curtsy, looking slightly uncertain. “It’s an honor to meet you, Your Majesty.”

Astra laughed, a musical sound that immediately put Tiffany at ease. “Please, call me Astra. We don’t stand on ceremony here, especially not with friends.”

As Astra turned to greet Sia, Zak noticed Draven’s gaze lingering on the vivacious brunette. His friend’s usually stoic expression had softened, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. Interesting, Zak thought, filing that observation away for later.

“Gerri!” Astra’s delighted exclamation drew Zak’s attention. The silver-haired matchmaker had stepped forward, embracing Astra like an old friend. “It’s been far too long, you sly fox. Still meddling in people’s love lives, I see?”

Gerri’s eyes twinkled with mischief. “Guilty as charged. Someone has to keep things interesting around here.”

The two women fell into animated conversation, their laughter echoing through the palace courtyard. Zak couldn’t help but smile at their easy camaraderie.

“Perhaps we should get you all settled in,” he suggested, turning to Tiffany and Sia. “I’m sure you’d like to freshen up after your journey.”

Tiffany nodded gratefully. “That would be wonderful, thank you.”

Zak led the way into the palace, guiding Tiffany toward the guest wing. He’d specifically chosen a suite for her that was conveniently located down the hall from his own chambers. It was purely for security reasons, he told himself, ignoring the way his heart raced at the thought of her being so close.

As they walked, Zak found himself hyper-aware of Tiffany’s presence beside him. The subtle scent of her perfume – something floral and light – teased his heightened senses. He longed to reach out and touch her, to pull her close and breathe her in. But he restrained himself, remembering Gerri’s words of caution.

“Here we are,” he said, opening the door to a spacious suite decorated in soft shades of green and gold. “I hope you’ll be comfortable here.”

Tiffany stepped inside, her eyes widening as she took in the luxurious furnishings and the breathtaking view of the forest visible through the large windows. “This is... wow. Are you sure this isn’t some kind of royal suite?”

Zak chuckled. “All our guest accommodations are of the highest quality. Though I may have ensured you received one of the best views,” he added with a wink.

A faint blush colored Tiffany’s cheeks, and Zak felt a surge of satisfaction. He loved seeing that pink tinge on her skin, knowing he was the cause of it.

“I’ll leave you to settle in,” he said, reluctantly stepping back to the door. “Perhaps later I could give you a tour of the palace and grounds?”

Tiffany’s face lit up. “I’d love that.”

With a final smile, Zak left her to unpack, his mind already racing with plans for their tour. He wanted to show her everything, to see her eyes light up with wonder at each new discovery.

As he made his way back to the main hall, he found Draven waiting for him. His friend’s usually stoic expression was marred by a slight frown.

“What is it?” Zak asked, immediately on alert.

Draven sighed. “Rickon’s been causing trouble again. He’s been spreading discontent among some of the other advisors, questioning your decision to bring humans into the kingdom.”

Zak felt a surge of frustration. Rickon had been a thorn in his side since he’d taken the throne, constantly pushing back any attempts at progress or change. “What exactly is he saying?”

“The usual rhetoric,” Draven replied. “That humans will dilute our culture, that they can’t be trusted with our secrets. He’s particularly upset about the idea of an Earth teacher educating our youth.”

---