Page 34 of A Kingdom so Crimson

"Levon, I assure you that you don't need to reconsider. I don't know what just happened, but I'm fine!" I insisted, and I meant it. "I've been through and seen a lot worse. I've never had that happen before." He looked at me flatly, clearly not believing a word I said. "Truly, I'm okay."

He stood there, scrutinizing me, searching for an explanation beyond my own. His features softened, but his jaw remained tense, and his fists clenched, betraying his growing worry. After a long, heavy sigh, he extended his hand.

"Come, let's wash up and go have some fun."

After freshening up, I slipped into a new gown I had found hanging in the armoire. It was a creamy white with quarter-inch sleeves and delicate scalloped edges. The snug bodice flattered my form, tapering just below the knee. The skirt was layered with shimmering tulle, intricately plaited to swirl gracefully with every movement. With my hair left cascading down, I made my way out the door.

My headache became dull, slowly easing its claws while a growing fear persisted with each passing moment. The vision, or thought—whatever it was—danced throughout my mind on its own accord. I struggled to push it away, but it stubbornly embedded itself deeper, staining my memories with its inky darkness. A chill ran down my spine, hinting at something deeper, something more menacing unfolding within me.

I inhaled, trying to shake the dark feelings.

Levon was in his study a few doors down, shuffling through a stack of misplaced papers. He wore a dark tunic with a navy blue sash wrapped around his waist, the rich colors complementing his hazelnut skin. As he looked to me, his teeth gleamed brightly, his smile so infectious it made me suppress a grin of my own. The warmth in his eyes and the crinkle of his smile softened the intensity of his earlier concern.

"Ready?" I asked, stepping into the study, twiddling my thumbs nervously. Levon finished organizing a few papers before extending his arm.

"You look lovely, my lady," he said with a playful twinkle in his eye.

"Thank you," I replied, feeling a flush of embarrassment rise to my cheeks. Compliments from men were not something I was used to.

He nodded with a smile as we walked down the grand staircase and out to his waiting carriage.

The ride was swift, and when Levon instructed the footman to halt just outside town, a surge of excitement coursed through me. Stepping onto the rocky pathway leading into the bustling streets, I was instantly enveloped in the vibrant energy of the place. The only experience I had gotten close to something like this was the parties Jesri threw, which were often enough that I truly didn't mind not going into the markets. Yet, this was completely different, with various smells, colors, views, and so many different people who didn't know my history. And there were no judgmental stares to contend with.

We passed by a line of carts filled with peculiar fruits and spices, which made me want to linger a little longer and touch the rough edges and patterns painted on each cart.

Voices echoed off each other like thunder, and money was passed back and forth like a secondhand. Laughter bubbled up from every corner and wiggled its way into my heart—like butterflies dancing through the swarm of people in all shapes and forms.

Levon chuckled, drawing me towards a nearby cart laden with delectable treats. The array of puff pastries, bonbons, chocolates, truffles, and tarts on display immediately seduced my senses. Levon exchanged a few coins with the cheerful vendor, selecting an assortment of sweets before handing me an elderberry tart. Its rich flavor sent my taste buds into a delighted frenzy.

He led me from one cart to another, each offering a unique array of goods. At one, vibrant flowers caught my eye, theircolors so vivid and unfamiliar that I struggled to find the words to describe them.

"Levon!"

We halted and turned, spotting a tall man pushing through the crowd towards us. Levon's grin widened at the sight of him.

"Edmon!"

The two embraced, clapping each other on the back like longtime friends. My heart tinged with a surprising surge of jealousy for his easygoing life, with friends and people who admired him for simply being who he was.

Edmon stood almost a foot taller than Levon, lean and lengthy. His ruddy brown hair kept falling into his face, adorned with a scattering of freckles that mirrored those on his forearms and hands.

"I didn't know you were back already," Edmon said over the bustling crowd.

Levon grasped my arm, pulling me into the conversation. I fought to keep my footing, feeling my cheeks flush with embarrassment and irritation rising within me. I flashed a strained smile, hoping Levon would sense my subtle frustration.

"Allow me to introduce Lady Eliah."

Edmon's smile widened as he offered a brief nod. "It's a pleasure to meet you. I've heard tales of your bravery already."

I willed myself to remain composed, hoping my cheeks wouldn't betray me, and silently wished Levon hadn't spread stories about me toeveryonehe knew.

"How lovely to learn that I'm so well-known already," I remarked, shooting Levon a sarcastic grin. He chuckled and tightened his hold on my arm.

"Join us for dinner tonight! I'm certain Lady Eliah would love to hear of your tales," Levon stated with a smile.

"It would be my pleasure, but Ma's been keeping me busy with lists since I returned," Edmon replied, holding out a longparchment covered in tiny handwriting. "Preparing for the start of the courtship parties," he added with a touch of sarcasm, patting his chest and fluttering his eyes.

Levon's smile widened. "Invite her and Mel to join us then!"

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