Page 120 of Scars and Burns

I shoot forward in bed. Placing a hand on my head as I do. Still a little disheveled from last night. Glancing around my room. Expecting to see Aeron.

But no one is there.

My eyes land on the fire burning in the hearth.

It’s blue.

Not just the base of the flame but all of it. The entire fire is blue. Blazing and brilliant. Filling my room with a warmth I’ve longed for since before I can remember.

But how?

Suddenly there is a knock on my door.

Cracking open slightly. I see a head pop in.

I’ve seen him before but I can’t put a name to his face.

“May I come in, Lady Dinalia?”

I nod in response.

He enters. Closing the door gently behind him. He stands there. Making no move toward me.

“Hello, my name is Aemond. I am a soldier for Prince Aeron.”

My brows furrow. Aemond. That is the false name Aeron gave me. He must be more than just a standard soldier for Aeron to give his name as a cover and for him to be here with me this morning after everything that transpired last night.

Aeron and I have not discussed what is between us but after the way he came to my aid, I feel it in my soul that he would not allow just anyone to enter my room.

“Just a soldier?” I question.

He smiles, “Well, you could also say I am a friend. If, his Grace, were to have friends.”

I smile at that. He doesn’t seem like the kind of person who wouldhave a large circle. Doesn’t strike me as someone who has many he is close with and can confide him.

Spoken as if it was my own soul.

“Di-did he inform you of what happened last night?”

Aemond sighs, “He gave me a run down of how he rescued you from an attack. Bringing you here to your chambers to rest. He went to take… deal… with those who would have taken advantage of you. Entrusting me to look over you. Ensuring no other harm would come.”

“Deal? What do you mean, deal?”

He clears his throat, “Punish”

He says it so flatly. As if it’s just another day.

“Punish?”

“Yes, my Lady, Prince Aeron does not take assaulting a woman lightly. Nor does he take anything lightly when it comes to you. He would protect you at all costs and anyone that dares to harm you will suffer the consequences. His wrath is not to be trifled with.”

His wrath? I’ve heard of the wrath of the infamous Prince Aeron. He is ruthless. Without mercy.

“H-he can’t! One of them was King Elio. What will happen to him if he kills the king?”

Not having a care in the world for how he chose to kill or torture them. Only fearing what might happen to Aeron for avenging me when I was too helpless to defend myself.

I shoot out of bed. Not caring what I look like. Only that Aeron is safe.

---