Page 72 of Reaper's Ruin
The party continued upward until we reached a clearing where Alaric called for everyone to split into smaller groups to cover more ground. As the nobles divided themselves, I noticed our target breaking away with only a single guard for company.
Rhyker saw it too. “Let’s follow,” he murmured. “Hang back enough that they won’t notice immediately.”
We allowed several other groups to move off before guiding our Stormsteeds in the direction he’d taken. Rhyker led the way, his body tense with anticipation, while I followed, my heart hammering in my chest.
“What’s the plan exactly?” I whispered when we were well away from the others.
“We observe first,” he replied. “When the moment is right, I’ll take care of the guard. Then we get our answers from the man who killed you.”
The path narrowed as we descended into a wooded ravine. Ahead, I caught glimpses of his silver-trimmed hunting jacket through the trees. We maintained our distance, careful not to make too much noise.
Suddenly, Lord Destan rode up quickly, slightly out of breath. “Lord Rhyker! Prince Alaric sent me to find you. A massive storm elk bull has been spotted—rack like a lightning rod, the kind of trophy that makes legends. He says you are a skilled hunter and can help ensure his success?”
Rhyker glanced at me then shook his head. “I don’t think I should leave her unattended. And Lady Soraya isn’t a strong enough rider to gallop after a storm elk in pursuit,” Rhyker said, his tone making it clear this wasn’t up for discussion.
Lord Destan’s face brightened as he turned to me with that roguish smile. “Well then, since His Highness insisted you join him, I’d be more than happy to keep the lovely Lady Soraya company while you assist the hunt. I promise to be a most attentive companion.” He winked at me.
Rhyker seemed to grow several inches, his jaw clenching as he stared down the younger lord.
“I’ll be fine alone,” I said quickly, before Rhyker could do something we’d regret—like throw Lord Destan off his Stormsteed. “The woods are safe, are they not?”
Lord Destan’s face fell. “Well, yes, but I don’t mind staying behind to escort you on a leisurely ride.”
“Nonsense,” I said, batting my eyelashes. “You men must go on your hunt. I wouldn’t want to stand in the way of your...” I searched for the word and landed on, “manliness.” Then I cringed as it came out. “You know. Guy stuff. Go. Both of you. I’ll be fine.”
Rhyker gave me a look that would have grumbled if it came with sound.
Lord Destan’s gaze flicked to my partially exposed breasts for just a moment, and I was certain Rhyker was going to leap off his Stormsteed if he moved even an inch closer to me.
“Are you sure, Lady Soraya? I’d be happy to stay with you. Lord Rhyker must hurry to help our King-to-be.”
I fanned my face. “Of course I’m sure. Please. Go after that big bull. I can’t wait to see if you’re successful in slaying the beast.” My stomach clenched at the sugary sweetness of my words as I was essentially commanding the slaughter of a creature I’d rather pet than consume.
I lifted my eyebrows as I leaned in and whispered to Rhyker, “Go. We need Alaric’s favor. He requested you personally. I’ll be fine.”
Rhyker studied me intently. “You’re certain? The hunting grounds are safe, but—”
“I promise I’ll stay put,” I said. “Right here. I won’t move an inch. I’ll just keep watch. I can see a pretty good distance from here.” I jutted in the direction my murderer had gone. “He’s right over there. I’ll keep an eye on him so we can go get him as soon as you’re back.”
Rhyker’s eyes promised violence if anything happened to me, then shifted that same promise toward Lord Destan. “We should go then. Both of us. The prince will need all the help he can get.”
Lord Destan looked mildly disappointed but brightened at the prospect of the hunt. “Of course! Lady Soraya, we shall return victorious in your honor!”
“I’ll be back shortly,” Rhyker said, his words directed at me alone. “If anything feels wrong—anything at all—just call out. Sound carries in these valleys. Stay. Put.”
With obvious reluctance, Rhyker turned his mount to follow Lord Destan, giving me one last warning glance over his shoulder before disappearing among the trees.
I remained where I was, Silverstreak shifting restlessly beneath me wanting to follow her friends. I stroked her neck, trying to soothe both her and me.
“It’s okay, girl. We’re just waiting.”
I’d watched enough horror movies to know what happens to the woman who doesn’t listen when someone says, “stay here” or “I’ll be right back.” They always end up running from some ax-wielding maniac or stumbling into the one place they absolutely shouldn’t go. My mother used to use those movies as learning opportunities, drilling into my head why I needed to obey.
You see, Soraya? If you don’t listen to your mom when she says wait in the car, you’ll get kidnapped, and I’ll never see youagain.
You see, Soraya? If you sneak out of the house at night, you’ll get kidnapped, and I’ll never see you again.
You see, Soraya? If you run off with a strange boy, he’ll chop you up into little pieces, and I’ll never see you again.
