Page 50 of Alien Prince's Fated Mate

A sweet smile curved her lips. “I like that.”

The beast rumbled its satisfaction. Yes, this was right - showing our mate the wonders of our territory, teaching her our ways.

We paused to water the villarts at a crystal-clear stream. While the mounts drank, I pointed out the glowing moss thatgrew along the banks, the tiny amphibians that changed color to match the rocks.

Niam crouched to examine a patch of star-flowers, their silver petals opening to catch the midday sun. Her fingers ghosted over the delicate blooms.

“The Temple’s archives held so much knowledge,” she mused. “But they never captured the true beauty of things.”

I settled beside her, watching emotions play across her expressive face. “Knowledge without experience is hollow.”

“Yes.” She plucked a single flower, tucking it behind her ear. “I want to experience everything now.”

The simple gesture squeezed my heart. My brave little mate, finally free to explore the world denied to her for so long.

A shadow passed overhead - a hunting skyclaw riding the thermals. Niam tracked its flight, fearless despite our recent encounter with one of the beasts.

“Is that one looking for prey?”

“No, just patrolling its territory.” I pointed out the distinctive markings on its wings. “See the blue stripes? That’s a female. They’re less aggressive than the males unless protecting a nest.”

She absorbed every detail, asking questions that revealed her quick mind and natural curiosity. The Temple might have tried to crush her spirit, but they’d failed. Her eagerness to learn, to understand, shone through.

The beast stirred restlessly, wanting to show her more, to see that wonder light her eyes again and again. But we had ground to cover before nightfall.

“Come.” I helped her to her feet, though she hardly needed the assistance. “There’s a sheltered valley ahead where we can make camp, and reach the inn tomorrow.”

The sun climbed higher as we traveled, warming the cool mountain air. Niam dozed briefly, her head tucked under mychin. I kept one arm wrapped securely around her waist, the other holding the villart’s reins.

We passed another merchant caravan, this one larger than the first. The traders’ whispers followed us down the trail:

“Is that Prince Tharon?”

“But the woman with him...”

“A Frostling? Impossible...”

“Did you see her scars?”

A low growl escaped me, but Niam squeezed my arm. “Let them talk,” she murmured. “Words can't hurt me anymore.”

My brave little mate. The beast settled, soothed by her quiet strength.

A family of tree-leapers swung through the branches overhead, their long tails flashing silver and gold. Niam watched in delight as the youngest ones chased each other, tumbling through the air with impossible grace.

“They look so joyful,” she said softly.

“They are.” I nuzzled her hair. “Like all creatures should be when they’re free.”

She went still in my arms, understanding my meaning. Then she turned, pressing a swift kiss to my jaw.

“Thank you,” she whispered. “For everything.”

The beast preened at her gratitude, but I shook my head. “You freed yourself. I just happened to be there to help.”

“Still.” Her fingers danced across my neck, making me shiver. “I’m glad you were.”

The villart snorted, sensing my distraction.

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