Chapter 35

"Arthur?" Meera's voice sliced through the stillness of the woods, her call echoing amongst the overgrown trees and tangled underbrush. The wind, a constant companion in these dense woods, carried her words away like whispers. It sang through the branches, causing them to sway and dance in rhythm with its song, while the leaves above rustled and murmured secrets to each other

"I need to speak to you," Meera called out once more, her voice carrying a newfound determination. With each word, her resolve strengthened, echoing through the dense foliage that surrounded her. She scanned the area, her senses heightened, acutely aware of every movement and whisper of sound that stirred in the woods.

"I found the books you told me about," she added, her voice tinged with excitement despite her growing impatience. The wind, relentless in its dance through the treetops, continued to rattle the leaves overhead, its whispers carrying secrets untold. The wild grass, a silent witness to her plight, swayed gently in response to the invisible rhythm of the forest.

Meera's heart quickened, a tumultuous mix of frustration and hope churning within her chest. She had been tirelessly searching for Arthur, hoping to unravel the mysteries he held. Yet, despite her efforts, he remained elusive, evading her grasp like a wisp of smoke in the night.

"Arthur," Meera clicked her tongue in frustration.

Just as the arms of sleep began to loosen their grip on her consciousness, Meera felt a feather-light touch brush against the edge of her face. Startled, her eyes snapped open, her breath catching in her throat.

"Arthur!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with desperation. But instead of the elemental, it was Eryx who kneeled before her, his steady hands catching her before she could fall from the chair where she had unknowingly drifted into slumber.

"No," Eryx replied calmly, his voice a soft in the darkness that surrounded them. "Just me."

Confusion clouded Meera's mind as she struggled to shake off the remnants of sleep, her senses slowly returning to her.

"What's going on?" she murmured, her voice thick with sleep as she attempted to piece together the fragmented moments leading up to her awakening.

Her eyes adjusted to the dim light provided by a solitary candlestick positioned before her. The rest of the library remained shrouded in darkness, an impenetrable void that seemed to swallow everything in its path. Meera's gaze fell upon the pile of books scattered across the table, their pages open and illuminated by the flickering flame of the candle.

"I've been searching everywhere for you," Eryx said. "How long have you been here?"

"I..." Meera shook her head and cleared her throat. "I must have fallen asleep....."

"What were you dreaming about?"

Meera's eyes lifted, "Why?"

"You sounded distressed," Eryx explained. "You were muttering and scowling."

"Were you watching me?" Meera asked, feeling her belly clench as she worried about what he may have heard.

"I was trying to read," the corner of Eryx's mouth curved up. "But you were very distracting."

"How long have you been here?" Meera shivered.

"Just long enough to hear you calling out Arthurt's name," Eryx let out a sigh and rose to his feet. He stared down at Meera as she looked up through her lashes.

His eyes were impossible to read as he reached out and took hold of Meera's chin. "Have you been dreaming with him?"

"You mean about him?" Meera tried to keep her breathing even as she looked into his gaze.

"No," Eryx said, his voice steady and eyes guarded. "I mean with him. Has he been coming to your dreams?"

"Why would you ask that?" Meera raised her hand and lowered Eryx's.

"In your sleep, you said you wanted to speak to him."

"I do not control what my subconscious shows me in my dreams," Meera said. "But if you must know, then yes. I have been dreaming about Arthur. Not with him, but about him."

"What about him?" Eryx folded his arms over his chest and sat down on the edge of the table.

"About the day in the forest," Meera scooched back.

"Do you see him often in your dreams?"

"No," Meera shook her head. "Just glimpses.....but they're memories of him from the fire."

"Does he speak to you?"

Meera frowned, "What's this about?"

Eryx held Meera's challenging gaze with an intensity that sent a shiver down her spine, the flickering candlelight casting shadows across his chiseled features. His eyes, dark pools of mystery, seemed to pierce through her defenses, leaving her feeling exposed and vulnerable beneath his scrutiny.

As his gaze lingered on her, Meera couldn't help but feel a sense of unease creeping over her, a nagging suspicion that there was more to Eryx's questions than what met the eye. She watched warily as his eyes roamed over her, tracing the curve of her jawline, the arch of her brows, lingering for a moment on her lips before finally settling on her hand.

In one smooth motion, Eryx reached out and gently took hold of Meera's hand, his touch sending a jolt of electricity through her veins.

Meera tried to pull away, a flicker of apprehension flashing in her eyes, but Eryx's grip remained firm, his gaze unwavering as he held her captive in his gaze. There was something unsettling about the way he looked at her, as if he could see straight through to the depths of her soul, laying bare her secrets for him to see.

"What happened to your fingers?" Eryx asked, his gaze fixated on the faint bluish tint that had begun to creep along Meera's skin. "They're turning blue."

Meera instinctively pulled her hand back, tucking it close to her chest as if to shield herself from his penetrating stare.

"It's the cold," she replied curtly, her voice betraying none of the discomfort she felt.

"How are you sleeping?"

"Completely fine," Meera answered with a tight-lipped smile, a note of defiance creeping into her voice as she attempted to deflect his probing questions. "Anything else?"

Eryx remained silent for a moment, his eyes never leaving her face as he continued to study her with an intensity that made her skin prickle with unease. Despite his composed exterior, Meera could sense the amusement lurking beneath the surface, a predatory gleam in his eyes that sent another shiver down her spine.

"Are you casting a spell, Your Highness?" Eryx leaned forward, his eyes drilling into Meera's. His voice was low and gravelly, the words hanging in the air like a sinister whisper.

Meera's breath caught in her throat, her heart pounding wildly against her ribs. "What..." she began, her voice faltering.

Before she could gather her thoughts, Eryx shifted his gaze away from her and down to the books spread out before her. With a deliberate motion, he reached forward and plucked one from the pile, his fingers tracing the worn spine with a mixture of curiosity and suspicion.

"Necromancy Tome?" Eryx arched a single brow, his gaze flickering back to Meera's face with a knowing glint in his eyes. "I didn't know you were interested in speaking to the dead."

"I am not," Meera retorted, her voice tinged with irritation as she snatched the book back from Eryx's grasp.

"What kind of spell are you trying to cast?" Eryx's tone was taunting, his arms folded across his chest in a display of mock innocence. His mouth twitched with amusement as Meera rose to her feet, her frustration palpable in the air around her.

Gathering the rest of the books before her, Meera shot a glare in Eryx's direction, her patience wearing thin. But before she could make her escape, she found herself trapped once more by his presence. Eryx sat on the edge of the table, his legs casually stretched out in front of him, effectively blocking her path.

"I'm not trying to cast a spell, oh brilliant one," Meera retorted, her eyes rolling in exasperation. She could feel the heat rising in her cheeks as she struggled to maintain her composure in the face of Eryx's teasing. "I'm trying to find answers. Since no one else seems to be in any urgency to help me dispel this hex."

"Find anything?" Eryx asked.

"Not yet."

"Need any help?"

"No," Meera said with bitterness. "I don't need help from anyone."

"Except for Bram, right?"

Meera's eyes narrowed, catching the subtle shift in Eryx's tone. "What is that supposed to mean?" she demanded, her voice edged with suspicion.

Eryx turned his attention away. His eyes shifted from Meera and stared into the darkness of the library. "Forget it."

"I already have," Meera muttered, her grip tightening on her books as she maneuvered past Eryx's legs. With a brisk movement, she snatched the candle from the table and strode out the door, leaving Eryx alone in the dimly lit room.

As the echoes of her departure faded, Eryx sat in silence, his thoughts consumed by the sting of jealousy that lingered in the air

________________________

Despite having to face Eryx every morning, Meera couldn't deny the subtle transformations taking root within her.

Running through the woods, she felt a newfound lightness, as if gravity itself had loosened its grip. Each stride was effortless, each breath a cool rush of invigoration. The bite of the cold air against her skin served as a stark contrast to the warmth pulsating within her, a sensation she welcomed with open arms.

Her improved stamina became apparent during combat training, where she found herself pushing beyond previous limits. She embraced longer sessions, often training twice a day without hesitation.

Yet, for all the physical exertion, Meera found no respite for her restless mind. Night after night, her dreams were spent searching of Arthur, driving her to madness. Every spare moment was consumed by her relentless pursuit of knowledge in the library, her fingers tracing the spines of countless tomes in search of answers.

Her schedule was packed to the brim – mornings dedicated to rigorous training, afternoons spent with Zeeb, and evenings stolen away in secret meetings with Bram. Each moment was meticulously planned, yet her thoughts remained scattered.

Meera had no access to the wall and anytime she thought she found a way in, her attempts were spoiled. It seemed as though the guards were hellbent on making sure she didn't get anywhere near the place.

What are you hiding from me, Eryx...Meera pondered silently as she dashed along the looping path that wound back to the tower.

Beside her, Sven's wolf form kept pace, his massive paws pounding the earth in a rhythmically. Meera tried to ignore his presence, but the weight of his gaze bore into her like a silent accusation, impossible to ignore.

"What is it?" Meera finally snapped, her frustration bubbling to the surface as she whirled around to confront him.

Sven halted, his wolfish features regarding her with a mixture of concern and confusion. "What?"

"You're staring," Meera accused, her breath coming in ragged gasps, a sheen of sweat glistening on her brow.

"I'm just making sure you're okay," Sven replied, his voice gentle yet unwavering.

"I'm fine," Meera retorted, her patience wearing thin. "Stop hovering."

"How am I hovering?" Sven inquired, his tone tinged with bemusement.

"Give me some space," Meera insisted, gesturing with exasperation. "Eryx doesn't run this close to me."

"Because you yell at him," Sven remarked with a hint of amusement.

"Can you please not run so close to me?" Meera pleaded. "It's distracting."

"Okay, fine," Sven acquiesced, taking a few steps back. "Better?"

Meera nodded curtly, her thoughts already drifting to Eryx. "Where's Eryx?"

"With the King and Queen," Sven replied.

"This early in the morning?" Meera wondered. "Is everything alright?"

"Ah..." Sven hesitated. "You should ask him. I'm sure he wouldn't want me speaking to you about any of this."

"Well, that just makes me want to know even more now," Meera said.

"Good," Sven moved around and began to head back toward the tower. "You should seek him out then. It'll thrill him to know you want to see him."

As Meera listened to Sven's words, a deep frown formed on her face, "Why does everyone act as if I'm the bad guy?"

"He's doing everything he can to earn your forgiveness, Meera," Sven said. "He's your mate. You can't be mad at him forever."

"Exactly," Meera shook her head. "He's my mate. He shouldn't have lied to me."

"I admit," Sven said. "That was wrong."

"Thank you."

"But-"

"No, but," Meera turned on her feet, ready to head back to the tower.

"Wait up!" Sven hurried behind.

"What is it?"

"Will you be attending the King's birthday celebration?" Sven inquired.

"I don't think I have a choice," Meera sighed. "He made a personal appearance to invite me. After all, I'm his show monkey."

"Nah," Sven chuckled. "You're more like the crown jewel of his kingdom. The water elemental to his heir."

Meera's frown deepened. Despite Sven's attempt to lighten the mood, his words only served to highlight her sense of displacement. With each passing day, she couldn't shake the feeling of being a pawn in someone else's game. Meera found herself longing for home more than ever. Her heart ached with a strange emptiness, her thoughts drifting to distant shores and familiar faces, leaving her feeling strangely isolated in the midst of the snow-covered kingdom.

"Sven," Meera paused, her tone serious. "May I ask you something?"

"Sure," Sven replied, his attention piqued.

"What is the king hiding behind the wall?" Meera inquired, her curiosity tinged with frustration.

"What?" Sven chuckled. "Hiding?"

"I have been here for a few months now," Meera declared, her determination evident. "But any request I've made to visit the wall has been denied. I thought it was my responsibility to protect the world from what's beyond the wall. How can I do that without ever visiting the wall?"

"I don't think they're hiding anything from you," Sven reassured her. "It's nothing special or pretty on the other side. Just soldiers and peddlers. The occasional shadow folks and routine patrols."

"But why have I not seen any of this?" Meera pressed, frustration bubbling beneath her words.

"Have you asked Eryx?" Sven suggested.

"He said no," Meera admitted, her expression clouded with annoyance.

"But have you asked Eryx?" Sven repeated a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Meera's brow furrowed in confusion.

"There's nothing in this world Eryx won't do if you ask him," Sven laughed knowingly, his words hanging in the air. "I don't think any of us can when it comes to our mates."

"Do you think that's why Jasper left Voreios?" Meera wondered aloud.

Sven drew in a deep breath, contemplating the question. "I think so... I think his loyalty to Arthur was greater than anything else."

"I see," Meera nodded, her thoughts drifting to the complexities of loyalty and duty.

Sven observed her quietly for a moment before breaking into another chuckle. "What are you thinking?" he prodded, his tone light.

Meera met his gaze, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips.

"Don't get any ideas," Sven warned playfully, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "You can't take Eryx away from us."

Meera's smile widened. "I don't think I can," she admitted, a touch of amusement in her voice.

"You're kidding me, right?" Sven's eyebrows shot up in mock disbelief. "I don't know what spell you cast upon him in Azmeera, but I can assure you, Princess, if you want it, you can have Eryx follow you to the depths of hell."

Meera laughed, the tension of their conversation dissipating into lighthearted banter.

"Will you follow your mate?" She asked.

"Depends," Sven replied. "I don't seem to have any luck knowing where they are."

"What do you mean?" Meera asked with curiosity.

"Us wolves," Sven began. "We feel a certain pull to a place. We might see it in our dreams over and over, or we might have an uncontrollable desire to visit a certain town, city, or kingdom."

"The mate bond?" Meera questioned.

"Yes," Sven said. "It pulls us to our elemental. Before you, Eryx was obsessed with Azmeera. He talked about visiting constantly. And then the opportunity came up to go for Henry's trials and he couldn't pass up on it."

Meera nodded slowly, absorbing the information. Her thoughts drifted to the memories of seeing Eryx for the first time, recalling the night at the docks when Helios had snatched her jasmine lei. Eryx had been with him then. He must have known who she was, she realized with a jolt of realization.

"Me, on the other hand," Sven sighed. "I don't want to go anywhere."

Meera looked at the wolf and frowned, "What do you mean?"

"I don't dream about any place, I don't want to go anywhere," Sven said. "Sometimes I think maybe my mate died....or they don't exist in this life."

"Or," Meera spoke softly. "Maybe they're right here in Voreios."

"That's not possible," Sven said.

"Why not?"

"I would have found them by now," Sven said.

"You couldn't have possibly met every single person in Voreios," Meera said. "Maybe you're not looking hard enough."

"Well, if you ever feel any pull, let me know," Sven chuckled. "As an elemental, you will feel a connection to another elemental."

"I know," Meera nodded. "I felt it with Arthur."

"And you will feel it again if I find my mate."

"When."

Meera jumped in fright as Eryx's voice startled her. She whirled around to find the silver wolf towering behind her, his fur gently blowing in the wind as he lowered his snout and sniffed her hand.

"It's not a question of if you will find your mate," Eryx said. "It's when you will find them."

"I thought not every wolf found their mate," Meera pulled her hand back, but Eryx's snout followed.

"It's different this time around," Eryx explained. "After Arthur and you, the solar conversion has been confirmed."

"Another thing you haven't told me about?" Meera stepped to the side and Eryx followed. They began a dance as Sven stepped back and watched them. Meera tried her best to create some distance between the two, but Eryx's wolf followed her like a shadow, almost as if unable to control himself. "What is the solar conversion?"

"All the planets, the moon, and the sun align perfectly," Sven explained. "It occurs every five hundred years."

"And why is that important?" Meera stepped over a pile of snow with Eryx on her heels.

"They say during the year of the solar conversion, all wolves find their elemental," Eryx explained. "Why do you keep moving, M?"

"Because I don't want your drool all over my hands!" Meera picked up a handful of snow and flung it into Eryx's face.

"Man, that's gross, Eryx," Sven teased.

"Was it not you who did not know how to clean themselves after nature called and walked around with stains on their furry behind?" Eryx chuckled. "Or was it someone else?"

"I did not want to hear that!" Meera gasped as she threw her hands over her ears.

"You asshole," Sven's wolf lunged toward Eryx but the silver wolf was must faster. Eryx easily dodged and moved out of the way, leaving Sven to slip and slide on the icy path.

"Yeah, do you know where yours is at?" Eryx howled with laughter.

Sven, wanting to get back at his best friend for embarrassing him in front of Meera, jumped into the air toward Eryx once more. He collided with the large wolf and tackled him to the ground as snow flew upward toward the sky from the impact. They were a blur of fur, teeth, snares, and playful bites, rolling around on the floor and snapping shrubs and branches. Unknowingly, they rolled toward Meera and heard her yelp as she jumped out of the way.

"Okay, okay, stop," Eryx surrendered.

"Pussy!" Sven mocked childishly as he jumped to his feet. His sudden movement caught Meera in the crossfire as his large tail knocked her feet from beneath her. Meera let out another yelp as she landed on the hard frozen ground.

"Hey! Watch it!" Eryx's demeanor changed in a instant. The playfulness drained from his eyes and a fierce protectiveness took over. He stepped forward and shoved Sven out of the way, making sure he was nowhere near Meera as she climbed to her feet. "Are you okay?"

Meera nodded, startled by Eryx's sudden change, "It's fine. I'm okay."

Eryx turned his head and glared at Sven, "What do you say?"

Sven stared. The confusion in his wolf's eyes made Meera want to chuckle.

"Is your ass okay....?" Sven asked with uncertainty.

"No, you shithead," Eryx's wolf huffed. "Apologize."

"Eryx," Meera stepped forward and placed a gentle hand on the wolf's side. "It's fine."

Feeling Meera's touch, the wolf's tense body relaxed. He stood still as a rock as Meera pushed her fingers into his fur and stepped closer. Eryx turned his head and caught sight of Meera's face. Her cheeks were flushed and her lips slightly parted. Her eyes watched her hand disappear in his fur with curiosity and wonder.

"Your fur is so soft...." She whispered, almost as if speaking to herself.

Eryx, savoring the moment, nudged her closer. He put his nose in her hair and sniffed her peachy scent.

"This is getting weird," Sven closed his connection to Meera and spoke only to Eryx as he took a step back, his wolf looking around for an exit.

"Leave," Eryx commanded.

Meera, unaware of the conversation, continued to run her hand through Eryx's fur. Her cold hands made him shiver as his body heat thawed her fingers. Her eyes slowly lifted and looked up into the wolf's silver eyes.

"I want to show you something," Eryx said.

"What is it?" Meera asked.

"Get on my back," Eryx began to lower himself.

Meera looked over her shoulder and paused, "Where's Sven?"

"He had to go," Eryx said.

"Do you always boss your friends around like that?" Meera wondered. "That's not very polite."

"He touched you."

"Accidentally," Meera rolled her eyes. "And besides, why do you care who touches me."

The wolf's eyes narrowed. The flicker of anger in Eryx's gaze amused Meera, making her want to poke him some more.

"I hope you learn to behave yourself when there are other men around me," She said, grabbing his fur and climbing onto his back.

"Pardon me?" Eryx asked, rising up to his full height.

Meera grinned, knowing Eryx couldn't see her face, "Not everyone wants to hurt me, Eryx. Some want to be friends. And others....I want to be friends with."

"Friends?" Eryx questioned. "Like Bram?"

"Yes," Meera's smile widened. "Exactly like Bram....or maybe more than Bram."

"More than?" Eryx turned away from the tower and began to head down a path away from the trail.

"Now you're just being rude," Meera laughed. "Are you really going to make a lady speak about her desires to meet a gentleman?"

Meera felt the wolf's shoulders tense between her legs. She gripped his fur and squeezed her thighs.

"You know," she spoke up when it was evident that Eryx was not going to respond. "I was dreading having to attend the King's birthday celebration. But now that I think about it, it's exactly what I need."

"How so?" Eryx asked, his voice grim.

"I'm sure Lord Joaquin will be in attendance," Meera said. "I hope to see him and thank him for the beautiful necklace."

"That's all it took to win over your affection?" Eryx asked. "A necklace?"

"Isn't that how you won over Dawn's affection?" Meera asked. "With the handcrafted Azmeerean yellow diamond necklace?"

"No," Eryx denied, his voice flat. "That was a gift from Zeya."

Meera stilled, "Oh."

"Did you think I had gotten that for her?"

"That's what she implied."

"Dawn is very good at spinning and twisting the truth."

"I see that," Meera muttered under her breath. "You two make a perfect pair."

"And just so you know," Eryx continued as they ducked under low tree branches and began to descend a steep hill. "Lord Joaquin is a frequent visitor of the brothels in Silverkeeps."

"And how do you know that?" Meera asked.

"Everybody knows it," Eryx snorted.

"Well...." Meera sighed. "There goes my chance."

"So sad," Eryx teased. "I hope you find comfort in these troubled times."

Meera slowly lowered herself closer to Eryx's ear and whispered, "I'm sure I will. There are plenty of fish in the sea."

"Best of luck, Your Highness," Eryx said.

"I don't need luck to catch some fish."

"Oh, you will," Eryx chuckled.

"Whatever."

Meera pulled back and rolled her eyes. She let out a sigh and looked around at her surroundings for the first time. The snow was untouched. Eryx's pawprints disturbed the perfect white blanket as evergreens leaned over with heavy snow on their branches. The soft crunch beneath the wolf's paws was the only sound that surrounded them. Meera peered into the horizon and saw nothing by pristine white snow.

"Where are we going?" She wondered.

"Wait and see," Eryx carefully made his way down a narrow path. Meera held onto him and soon began to hear the soft sound of running water. She looked over to find a stream flowing past them with frozen banks and large boulders scattered around.

"Hold tight," Eryx instructed her. "Don't let go."

Meera lowered herself to his back once more as he leaped onto one of the boulders. Her heart began to race as the wolf effortlessly made his way across the stream and landed gently on the other side.

"Close you eyes."

"Why?"

"Please."

Meera turned her head and buried her face in Eryx's shoulders. She wrapped her arms around his neck and held on as he took off running. Meera could feel the wind blowing through her hair, making her cloak fly behind her like wings. She embraced the heat of Eryx's body as the sound of running water intensified. It grew louder and louder until it became deafening. Unable to suppress her emotions any longer, Meera lifted her head and gasped.

There, before her, stood a magnificent waterfall, a sight to behold. Gallons upon gallons of water cascaded down the mountainside, their thunderous roar echoing through the valley. As the water plummeted, it merged with the flowing stream below, creating a mesmerizing dance of currents.

Along the edges of the waterfall, ice crystals formed intricate patterns, their delicate shapes adding to the spectacle. The sunlight caught on their surfaces, casting prismatic hues across the surrounding landscape. Each glimmer and sparkle seemed to dance in the air, painting the scene with a magical brilliance.

Meera watched in awe, her senses overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of nature unfolding before her. The sight of the waterfall, with its raw power and delicate elegance, filled her with a sense of wonder. She felt Eryx lower himself and she quickly climbed down from hsi back.

The silver wolf stood back, his keen eyes fixed on his elemental, as she bounded towards the edge of the water, her eyes alight with admiration. Meera approached the cold stream with determined steps, the rush of water embracing her legs as she waded in, her fascination evident in every movement.

Eryx trailed behind her, his gaze unwavering as he watched her, unable to tear his eyes away from her radiant face. There was a sense of reverence in his demeanor as if he were witnessing something sacred unfold before him. With each step she took, he felt a pull deep within him, drawing him closer to her, closer to the enigmatic force that bound them together.

As Meera stood knee-deep in the icy stream, her presence seemed to electrify the air, sending shivers down Eryx's spine. He followed her without hesitation, the distance between them narrowing with each passing moment. In that moment, surrounded by the beauty of nature, Eryx felt a sense of belonging, unlike anything he had ever known.

"Do you like it?" He asked, holding his breath.

Meera nodded, speechless by the beauty of the waterfall. Her spine tingled and her skin crawled with goosebumps. Her belly clenched as if a thousand butterflies took flight inside.

"I've wanted to bring you here since the day we got to Voreios," Eryx confessed. "I've never brought anyone here."

Meera slowly turned her eyes towards the wolf standing beside her.

"In hindsight, I guess I should have known your element was going to be water," Eryx's voice hinted at the smile on his face. "This place was meant for you."

"It's beautiful here," Meera looked down at the crystal clear water. "The water reminds me of Azmeera."

"I felt the same way," Eryx said.

"Can we swim in the water?"

"Not the best idea," Eryx turned his head and nudged Meera back to shore. "The water is too cold."

"It can't be that bad."

"Meera," Eryx stopped her as she began to take off her cloak. "No."

"But the water is so clean and beautiful," Meera walked to the bank once more. She lowered herself and scooped up the cold water. "A quick dip."

"No." Eryx shook his head. "You're out of your mind. You'll get sick."

"No, I won't," Meera said stubbornly. "I think it might be helpful. I haven't felt this way about seeing running water since I left Azmeera. What if this helps weaken the hex?"

Eryx frowned.

"Eryx," Meera stood up, and stared into his eyes. "I.....I feel something here."

The light in Meera's eyes flickered with determination. Eryx felt a surge of conflicting emotions, torn between his duty to protect her and his desire to see her free from the dark forces that plagued her.

"It's too risky," he replied, his voice tinged with concern. Meera's face began to fall, disappointment evident in her expression. Sensing her disappointment, Eryx rushed out with his next words. "But I'm open to trying. Just not now."

"Why not?" Meera questioned.

"Because we're not prepared," Eryx explained, his tone firm. "I want to come back here with you with proper preparation. If you're going to swim in that water, then we will need a strong fire to warm you up afterward, a change of dry clothes, and anything else I can think of to keep you safe and warm."

"Well, how long will all that take?" Meera asked impatiently, her eagerness evident in her voice.

"Allow me a day to prepare," Eryx insisted, hoping to reassure her.

"Tomorrow is the King's celebration," Meera reminded him, a note of urgency creeping into her voice.

"No one will notice if we're gone," Eryx countered, his determination matching hers.

Meera stood peering at Eryx, her hesitation evident in her eyes. She shifted her weight and glanced back at the waterfall, torn between her desire to explore and her concern for Eryx's worries.

"Please, M," Eryx said with a gentle voice.

Hearing the earnestness in Eryx's voice, Meera nodded slowly. "Okay."

"Thank you," Eryx sighed. "Now let's get back. Your feet are wet."

With extreme slowness, Meera walked over to the wolf and climbed onto his back. She couldn't tear her eyes away from the waterfall as Eryx stood by, turning away to lead the way back.

Meera lowered her head onto the wolf's back, holding onto Eryx as tightly as she could. Her heart pounded inside her chest with both hope and worry, feeling the energy of the stream bidding her farewell as they departed.

As Eryx guided them through the woods, Meera couldn't shake the feeling of anticipation mixed with apprehension. Eryx leaped across boulders, carrying them swiftly towards the tower, his urgency mirroring Meera's own inner turmoil.

Once they reached the back gates of the fortress, Meera quickly climbed down from Eryx's back and turned away. She bit down on her bottom lip and winched with her eyes tightly shut as the horrifying sounds of bones breaking and snapping into place filled the halls and echoed. When she heard Eryx let out a groan and grabbed his clothes off the shelf, Meera relaxed her shoulders and opened her eyes.

"How much does that hurt?" She asked, stopping herself from looking over her shoulder.

"Not as much as it used to," Eryx said, pulling his shirt over his head.

"Which form do you prefer?" Meera peeked as the prince came to stand beside her.

The corner of Eryx's mouth curved up, "Recently? The wolf form."

"Why?" Meera asked.

Eryx shrugged, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. Meera couldn't help but wonder why he suddenly looked so childish when Bram came rushing down the steps in the foyer.

"Meera!" Bram called to her breathlessly, his voice filled with urgency.

Meera and Eryx turned their heads in unison to look at the alchemist, their brows furrowing in concern as Bram's panic-stricken eyes darted between them.

"What is it?" Meera stepped forward, her voice edged with worry.

"Where have you been?" Bram pointed, trying to catch his breath. "Your room..."

Worry and concern flooded Meera as she rushed up the stairs, Eryx's heavy steps echoing behind her as Bram raced after them. The trio sprinted up the grand stairwell and turned toward Meera's room. The doors were wide open, and two soldiers were stationed outside.

"What's going on?" Meera demanded as she entered the chaos of her room.

The bed had been flipped and torn, pillows strewn across the floor, and sheets tossed aside. Her clothes lay haphazardly on the sofa, and her vanity was emptied on the floor beside it. Meera's eyes widened in disbelief and shock. She gasped at the sight of her room in disarray and the disrespect shown to her belongings. Her heart clenched inside her chest as she looked up and spotted Lyall and Fenno standing in the middle of the chaos while soldiers continued their search.

"What's the meaning of this?" Meera's voice trembled with a mixture of anger and fear as she confronted the men in her room.

Lyall looked over his shoulder before turning to face the princess. He stood tall, his imposing stature and piercing eyes meeting Meera's gaze with unwavering intensity.

"The King has ordered a search of your belongings," Lyall declared. "We suspect that you have been taking shadowshade root in your tea."

Meera felt the blood in her veins turn ice cold. The color drained from her face as her heart dropped to the pit of her stomach. She could hear the rush of blood in her ears, panic gripping her chest. Her eyes flickered to the small porcelain vase by her nightstand, realizing the soldiers would likely find the incriminating evidence before she could intervene.

"Are you out of your goddamn mind?" Eryx questioned, his voice laced with disbelief and anger.

"We did warn you, Eryx," Fenno interjected. "Meera has been dishonest with us."

Meera's eyes widened in disbelief as they darted towards Eryx, seeking answers amidst the chaos. "Did you know this was going to happen?"

Eryx met her gaze, his expression pained. "No. Of course not."

"Is this why you took me out to the waterfall?" Meera accused, her voice trembling with betrayal and confusion.

"No, Meera," Eryx said, his voice stern and his eyes sharp as he turned back to Lyall and Fenno. "You won't find anything. Meera would not lie to us. I know her."

"You can't explain her blue skin tint or her sudden tiredness," Lyall argued, his tone accusatory. "Step aside and let us do our job, Eryx."

"Fine," Eryx said stubbornly, his jaw set with defiance. "Go on. I want to see the look on your faces when you leave empty-handed like fools."

Meera looked toward Bram, his eyes betraying the panic running through his mind as he nervously chewed on his fingernails.

"Or we can cut this short," Fenno declared, his voice cold and authoritative as he turned toward Meera. "Just tell us where you're hiding it."

"You're crossing the line," Eryx warned the old man, his voice low and dangerous. "You're disrespecting my elemental."

"Your elemental has been disrespecting us," Lyall retorted, his frustration evident. "She's meddling with powers she has no understanding of."

Tension crackled in the air as accusations flew, and Meera couldn't feel her hands as one of the soldiers near the vase.

"Search every nook and cranny in this place," Lyall commanded, his voice echoing through the room. "Leaving nothing unsearched."

Meera couldn't tear her eyes away as the soldier picked up the delicate porcelain vase. Time seemed to slow to a crawl, and the air grew thick with anticipation. She watched in horror as the young man pulled the flowers out and peered inside. Her heart lodged into her throat, and her knees grew weak as he turned the vase upside down, spilling the water onto the floor.

Lyall and Fenno looked over their shoulders, their expressions a mix of expectation and frustration. Meera bit down on her bottom lip, her nails digging into her palm as she braced herself for the worst.

"Anything?" Fenno asked impatiently, his tone betraying his growing frustration.

The soldier looked up and shook his head, his voice filled with relief. "Nothing here, my lord."

Meera stood frozen, her mind reeling with shock and confusion as she watched the soldier shake his head, confirming that they had not found her hidden tea inside the vase. A rush of disbelief washed over her, mingled with a flicker of relief that they hadn't uncovered her secret. But beneath it all, a deep sense of confusion gnawed at her.

How could they have missed it? Meera had been certain that her hiding spot was foolproof, yet somehow, they had come up empty-handed. She couldn't comprehend how her carefully guarded secret had remained intact despite the thorough search.

As she struggled to make sense of the situation, a nagging suspicion began to form in the back of her mind.

Bram.

It had to be him. He was the only one who knew about her stash of shadowshade root tea, the only one who could have possibly hidden it before the soldiers arrived to search her room.

Meera's eyes shifted to the alchemist as he stood motionless, staring at the soldiers. She felt her heart swell up with gratitude and her eyes water. When he turned to look at her, Meera offered him the hint of a smile.

Meera's eyes shifted to the alchemist as he stood motionless, staring at the soldiers. She felt her heart swell up with gratitude and her eyes water. When he turned to look at her, Meera offered him the hint of a smile.

"Done yet?" Eryx barked at the soldiers, his voice cutting through the tension. "Find anything or do you need to tear down the walls? Have you checked the ashes in the fireplace?"

Disappointment washed over Lyall and Fenno's faces as Eryx commanded the soldiers to leave.

"You too," he said, turning his gaze to the two councilmen. "I would like to have a word with you both outside."

Meera cared little about what Eryx said to them. All she wanted was to throw her arms around Bram and thank him for saving her. Her heart pounded inside her chest with relief, threatening to bring tears to her eyes.

"Everyone out," Eryx's commanding voice ordered. "Now."

As the soldiers filed out one by one, Lyall and Fenno followed with Bram trailing behind them. But as the alchemist passed Meera, she reached out and grabbed his wrist.

"Wait," she said, tugging him back. "I need to speak to you."

Fenno looked back but didn't say anything. Eryx cleared his throat from where he stood in the doorway waiting. As Fenno turned and walked out, Eryx's gaze flickered to Meera and Bram, his eyes unreadable as he closed the door and stepped out, leaving the two standing alone in the messy room.

"Oh my god!" Bram let out the breath he had been holding. "Holy shit! I thought we were done for!"

"Bram..." Meera stepped forward, wanting to express her gratitude.

"That was absolutely crazy!" Bram ran a hand through his hair, still in shock. "My heart is pounding. I can't breathe."

"Bram," Meera called to him again, her voice soft but urgent.

"My legs are shaking," Bram continued, caught up in his own whirlwind of emotions.

Unable to contain herself any longer, Meera threw her arms around his neck and pulled him into a tight embrace.

"Thank you," she squeezed, her voice muffled against his shoulder. "Thank you."

Startled, Bram hesitantly returned the hug, his arms wrapping around her waist as she squealed with delight and gratitude.

"Meera..." Bram spoke her name breathlessly, his confusion was evident.

"I don't know what I would have done without you," Meera said, her voice trembling with emotion. "Thank you, thank you. You're a real friend, Bram."

"You're welcome?" Bram replied uncertainly, his confusion deepening.

Meera pulled back slightly to look at his face, her arms still around his neck as she peered up into his eyes and smiled.

"With all my heart," she spoke sincerely. "Thank you. You saved me."

Bram opened his mouth to speak, his voice catching in his throat, just as the door opened once more. Eryx's gaze locked onto Meera embracing Bram, his eyes narrowing with a dangerous intensity.

The air in the room thickened, suffocating Meera with its tension. Bram shifted his weight nervously, his fingers trembling as he adjusted his glasses. The muscles in Eryx's jaw clenched and unclenched rhythmically as he closed the door with a heavy thud, his footsteps echoing ominously against the floorboards.

Meera stood frozen, her heart pounding in her chest, as Eryx approached her with purposeful strides. His presence seemed to fill the room, casting a shadow over everything in its path. She swallowed hard, unable to tear her eyes away from the small bag of shadowwood tea clutched tightly in his hand.

Her eyes widened in disbelief, a cold shiver running down her spine as Eryx drew closer. The room seemed to grow smaller, the walls closing in around her as she took an involuntary step back.

Eryx's voice sliced through the silence like a blade, each word dripping with a chilling warning. "If you ever do this again," he growled, his voice low and menacing, "I'll chop off his head for supplying you with this shit."

Meera's breath caught in her throat, fear gripping her heart as she stared into Eryx's hard and unforgiving gaze. She felt a knot form in the pit of her stomach.

In that moment, Eryx seemed more than just a protector—he was a force to be reckoned with, a dark and formidable presence that sent shivers down her spine. And as he stood before her, his eyes blazing with an intensity that made her blood run cold, Meera suddenly knew there was nothing she could keep hidden from him. 

Do you think Eryx deserves to be forgiven or does he have to work harder?