Page 84 of Cage of Darkness
Allyssa closed her eyes for a moment,trying to remain calm. She felt like a fool for not seeing thathe’d been planning to end their relationship for weeks. Opening hereyes, she took a slow, calming breath. “Continue.”
“I’d like to know if thecontract is still intact.”
“You mean if Emperion andFren are united?”
“No. That’s not it. I…Iwish to form an alliance with you through marriage,” he said, hisvoice soft and unsure. It was strange to see this tall,wide-shouldered man who led an army on the battlefield be sovulnerable. “It is strictly a strategic move,” he assured her. “Ifwe marry, the nobles will have to change allegiances back to me.Plus, with our combined armies, we will be unstoppable.” His eyessought hers.
She didn’t know what to think of hisunexpected proposal. Even though he’d said this was a politicalmove, there was something in the way he looked at her that made herthink there could be more to it. Kerdan never did anything withouthaving a clear endgame. “What does Emperion get out of the deal?”So far, he’d only mentioned the advantages for Russek.
“I will execute Jana andsign a treaty promising Russek will remain within its borders. Iwill also release Melenia from our hold and make no aggressivemoved toward any other kingdom, including Fren.”
“Do you wish to merge ourtwo kingdoms, or keep them separate?” While she hadn’t intended onconsidering his offer, what he said made sense and warranted somecareful thought.
“I know you have feelingsfor Odar.” He stumbled over the words.
She held her hand up, imploring him tostop. “It doesn’t matter what I do or do not feel. The contractbetween Prince Odar and myself is no longer. I will do what is bestfor Emperion. Now, please answer the question.”
“I’m trying to.” He took astep toward her. “I can’t offer you my love, nor do I expect yoursin return. But I can give you my friendship, support, and honesty.I’d like a partner in life.”
She couldn’t help the traitorous tearsthat sprang in her eyes. The break-up with Odar was still toofresh.
“However, if you do notwish the same, I understand. I can rule from Russek, and ourkingdoms will remain separate while continuing to work together.But, if you would like a partner, we can merge our kingdoms andrule as one.”
“Those are pretty grandnotions,” Neco said. “And not something the princess can negotiatewith you.”
“I understand,” Kerdanreplied.
“We will take the matter toEmpress Rema and Emperor Darmik,” Neco said.
“I must return to Russek.My men are waiting for me. Thank you for considering myoffer.”
“How should we send word toyou?” Neco asked.
“Are you familiar with theWomek estate in southern Russek?”
Allyssa had never heard of that namebefore.
“I know the family,” Necoreplied. “They’re an old Russek family. One of the daughtersmarried an Emperion if I’m not mistaken.”
“That is correct. Send wordto the duke there. He can get messages safely to me.”
“I need to ask something ofyou in return,” Neco said. Kerdan readily agreed. “Keep this quiet.I don’t want Jana to know of the princess’s whereabouts or that weare considering an alliance.”
“Of course.”
“We must be on our way.”Neco went over and untied the horses.
“Thank you for all you havedone,” Kerdan replied. “Even if you decide not to align yourkingdom with mine, I’d like to remain friends.”
“Me too.”
He smiled wryly. “Who knows? I mayneed to seek asylum here if I can’t overthrow Jana.”
“I’m sure my father couldfind some use for a man with your skills.” She knew that he wasimplying she needed him as much as he needed her. And just likethat, things had come full circle, and she was once againcontemplating another political marriage to someone she didn’tlove. This time, she wouldn’t be fooled into delusions of love andgrandeur. She would marry for her kingdom—and she wouldn’t dwell onOdar any longer.
“Be careful,” Kerdan said.“I’m hoping Jana has enough to contend with right now and willleave Emperion alone while we fight over the throne. However, sheis ruthless and unpredictable. I can guarantee to keep my companyof soldiers out of your kingdom, but I can’t say the same for her.She is determined to destroy your family, no matter the cost.” Hewhistled, and a gelding approached. “I think the two of us wouldmake a formidable pair—a force to be reckoned with. I look forwardto your answer.” He mounted, pulled his hood on, and nudged hishorse onward.
Allyssa watched him gallopaway.
