Page 34 of The Princess In A 'Prince' Disguise

Drawing nearer, the beast sniffed her cautiously, its predatory instincts on high alert. Aekeira held her breath, afraid the slightest movement would provoke its wrath.

The beast's massive hand reached out, its claws pressing against her arms as it effortlessly lifted her off the ground. With a wave of its hand, she was dropped to another corner of the dark room, deliberately away from the door.

Then, the beast turned its attention to the door. Taking two steps forward, it halted and raised both hands...

Aekeira watched in awe as the creature exerted an astonishing force, pushing against the sturdy oak door. With a resounding crash, the door yielded to its strength, splintering into fragments.

Behind the shattered remnants stood the imposing metal gates. The king beast pulled, gathering momentum before hurtling itself at the gates.

Oh, the stars!

Aekeira remained motionless, seated where the beast had left her, paralyzed with fear.Could the beast truly breach the metal gates and escape?

Finally, it became clear why Grand Lord Vladya had been so certain the king beast would kill her that other night. The sheer strength possessed by this creature was beyond comprehension. Immeasurable. Unfathomable.

The beast was on the verge of escape. Yet, Aekeira found herself incapable of making the faintest sound. Her terror so great she came dangerously close to losing control of her bladder.

Again and again, the beast repeatedly threw itself at the door, each impact echoing with a deafening boom. Locks and keys succumbed to its power, crumbling at its feet as the metal gates swung open wide.

The feral king cast one final glance at Aekeira.

She recoiled from its gaze, pressing herself against the wall.He’s going to kill me.

The beast approached her, each step exuding a threatening aura of power. Strength.

It drew near, bent down, and brought its face closer to Aekeira. Due to the darkness of the room, she couldn't see its features clearly, except for its glowing yellow eyes.

Pressing its nose against her neck, it inhaled deeply.The very spot where Em had nestled her face during their embrace.

The creature growled, licking Aekeira's neck. Twice.

Finally, it straightened up and exited the forbidden chambers with heavy steps.

Chapter nine

WHEN THE BEAST BREAKS FREE

"What in the sky were you thinking, Emeriel!?" Madam Livia scolded yet again. They had returned to Aekeira's chambers.

"Shouldn't you be in the festival grounds, serving drinks? What were you doing here? Do you always wish to be whipped!? Why do you disobey direct orders?" The older woman's voice brimmed with anger.

Emeriel ignored the prickling sensation in his arm and lowered his head respectfully. "I apologize, Madam Livia. I am aware you specifically instructed me not to see Aekeira, but I could not resist. I needed to see her, to ensure she was safe."

"Do you think it was my idea? Grand Lord Vladya issued that order himself. You do not want to test that male, Emeriel. He would devour you for breakfast and cast you into a lion's den if he so wished. That is the kind of male he is.” The older woman huffed. “What were you thinking?"

That was the point. Emeriel was not thinking.

The truth is, he did not regret searching for his sister. Even if Lord Vladya punished him, he still would not regret it.

Absentmindedly, Emeriel scratched his arms, saying nothing.

Madam Livia took a deep breath. "Now go and dress up in your festival uniform. We must proceed to the festival grounds. That is the only favor I can grant you. But if anyone notices you were not there on time and reports it to Lord Vladya, I will not help you evade punishment."

It was more than Emeriel could ask for. "I understand. Thank you, Madam Livia."

As he turned to leave, he scratched his arms again, trying to alleviate the itching. The room felt stiflingly hot. Perhaps he could find some fresh air—

Then, it dawned on him.

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