Page 43 of Of Blood & Stone

It didn’t.

“Your Grace,” Kharis said with a low bow, “may I present Elnok Rogdul, Prince of Vutror.”

The High One narrowed his gaze. “I have treaty negotiations set for King Tosh, do I not, Kharis?”

“The king has fallen gravely ill, Your Grace. He was unfit to travel through Lhaal Forest.”

“Are you suggesting you’re not fit to accomplish your tasks?”

“My apologies, Your Grace,” Kharis said. “You’ve offered me your trust to return with a Vutrorian of royal blood who can discuss the terms in which we may continue to receive the weapons we need; I found the king unfit to hold such important discussions.”

The High One raised his glass of wine and took a sip.

Kharis continued, “But it was a miracle by Aretta’s hand herself that the king’s brother, Prince Elnok, was willing to take his place and make such arrangements. I don’t doubt you two will come to a painless form of negotiation.”

“This man was rumored to be dead,” the High One said.

“If I may speak for myself, Your Grace,” Elnok interjected, “Rumors are simply unverified speculation.”

“You never thought to ease this rather dire conjecture?”

“A tasteless prank of mine, I must admit. But it resulted in quite the spectacle upon my return.”

“Then where have you been all this time,Prince?”

Elnok didn’t let his smile fall as he replied, “Touring the continent. My brother was so determined about staying in our family’s castle, but I always found it far more appealing to get to know the people of the land on a more personal level.” He splayed his hands to the bustle of the banquet, “I’d say we can agree on this notion, wouldn’t you?”

The High One raised a brow. “I suppose we can.”

Elnok turned to the woman; her jaw remained set, eyes never leaving the High One’s face. Even if this woman was a wife or concubine, the behavior felt unnaturally controlled.

“Prince Elnok, this is Sylzenya Phatris,” the High One finally said, patting the woman’s arm, “She gave a splendid speech, didn’t she?”

It took everything within him to keep smiling. “It was excellent.”

“We’re glad you’re on the mend,” Kharis said to her.

“You’re too kind,” the woman, Sylzenya, replied, a thin smile replacing her stoic features.

The High One smiled. “I’m glad you both think so, especially you, Prince Elnok.”

“Is that so?” Elnok asked, a tension rising in his gut.

“Quite, because while Sylzenya was originally going to be your guide only if you ever desired to tour the temple, she’s extended an even more gracious gesture.” The High One looked at her. “She’s volunteered to be your guide during your entire stay.”

Elnok’s stomach dropped.

The woman finally looked at Elnok, eyes glinting in the torchlight as she offered a trite nod.

“Yes. I’ll be by your side at every moment, Your Highness, so I can educate you in our people’s ways. I’ll make sure you receive a rich exposure of our kingdom.”

He didn’t let his smile falter despite the rising heat in his body. There would be no privacy for discussing plans with Kharis. She wasn’t his guide—she was this leader’s pet, sent to watch his every move.

My personal godsdamn hell.

The High One smiled, a glint of triumph in his features.

Elnok wished he still had his sword.

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