Page 45 of Eternal Mate

We'll regroup in the throne room, I suggested.

The bond tingled with his disapproval, but when we spotted reinforcements heading down the hallway, I watched his jaw flex as he tried to think hard.

He nodded, a flicker of tenacity in his eyes—and then we both darted in separate directions.

I made as much noise as possible, drawing attention from my mate as soon as the same thought crossed his mind, stealing the opportunity from him.

His curse was a hiss that reverberated down the hallway before I turned the corner, disappearing from his view with the fae hot on my tail.

17

A ROYAL TAKEOVER

SARIEL

When Aria and I parted ways, a heavy weight settled in the pit of my stomach.

I watched her figure disappear into the distance, her determined strides a reflection of her unwavering spirit. Behind that pride I held for her bravery, though, I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of worry for her safety. She was venturing into dangerous territory, facing unknown perils, and I couldn't be there to protect her.

I clenched my fists, my mind racing with conflicting emotions. Every fiber of my being urged me to turn back, to abandon the mission, and follow Aria's path, but I knew that wasn't the right course of action. The fate of our people hung in the balance, and if we were to have any hope of success, we had to divide our efforts.

Still, it didn't ease the gnawing ache of concern that gripped my heart. Aria was strong and capable, but even the strongest among us could falter in the face of unforeseen dangers. While I trusted her skills and instincts, that didn't erase the fear that lingered in my thoughts.

With a heavy sigh, I shook my head, as if trying to dispel the troubling thoughts that threatened to consume me.

I had to focus. I had to push forward, to carry out my part in this intricate dance of strategy and danger. I had a role to play in this mission, and I couldn't let my worry for Aria distract me from it. The path ahead was treacherous—I needed to stay vigilant and true to our purpose.

I straightened my posture, steeling myself for the challenges that awaited me. Every step I took was fueled by the hope that our sacrifices would lead to a brighter future, a world where our people could live without fear.

Deep within me still, there was a voice that whispered, that prayed for Aria's safety.

I couldn't ignore it completely. I promised myself that once our mission was complete, I would search for her, find her, and ensure that she was unharmed.

Thankfully, that settled my angel and wolf both.

For now, I had to trust in her abilities. She could make it through whatever trials laid in her path, and I could focus on my own mission that demanded my undivided attention.

I navigated through the dimly lit corridors of the palace, my footsteps echoing against the stone walls. The air was heavy with tension, and the flickering torches cast eerie shadows that added to the sense of foreboding that enveloped me.

As I moved with purpose, my mind focused on one objective: finding the throne room and battling Tarragon.

The palace was a maze of grand halls, twisting passageways, and hidden chambers. It was deliberately designed to confuse intruders and protect the royal family.

Unfortunately for it, I was determined to overcome its intricate layout. I had studied the palace schematics meticulously, memorizing every twist and turn, every secret entrance and hidden passage.

A bead of sweat trickled down my temple as the pressure mounted. The longer it took me to find the throne room, the more time Tarragon had to solidify his grip on power. Every passing moment meant more suffering for our people, more lives lost under his oppressive regime. I couldn't afford any missteps; every decision I made had to be calculated and precise.

I pressed on, my senses heightened, eyes scanning for any telltale signs or subtle clues that would lead me closer to my target. The silence here was suffocating, broken only by the faint echo of my footsteps. Anticipation was heady in the air, a tangible force that spurred me forward.

My mind raced with thoughts of vengeance and justice. I envisioned the countless lives that Tarragon had destroyed, the families torn apart, the innocent souls extinguished by his cruelty.

The sight of Mikey’s head being severed on live TV.

The weight of this suffering propelled me, fueled my resolve to end his reign of terror.

As I turned a corner, I came across a pair of guards standing sentry outside a set of ornate double doors. Their expressions were hardened, their gazes cold and unyielding. They were loyal to Tarragon, willing to defend him at any cost. I knew I had to tread carefully.

Drawing upon my training, I took a deep breath to steady my nerves. I approached the guards with a confident stride, projecting an air of authority. "I seek an audience with Tarragon," I declared, my voice firm and unwavering.

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