Chapter 39

In haste, Meera shed her torn dress and quickly dressed in one of Venna's silk dresses. The cloth stretched taut across her full chest as she did the buttons on the back and grabbed the cloak off the hook.

Out in the room, Eryx stood guard, his eyes watching the door as more and more soldiers appeared on the other side.

"What do we do?" Meera asked, coming to stand beside him.

"Open the balcony door," Eryx instructed.

Meera quickly ran to the glass doors and pushed it open. The cold winter air blasted her in the face and her eyes watered immediately from the chill that ran up her nose.

"Do you see the other balcony?" Eryx asked, walking to where she stood. "I'm going to help you onto the ledge. I want you to get to the other balcony. It's Will's room. Wait there until I come to get you."

"I'm not going without you," Meera shook her head.

"Don't be stubborn right now, M," Eryx's voice grew stern. "I can shut my eyes and deal with what's out there. But if you're in here with me, that creates a huge disadvantage for me."

"I can help-"

"I don't doubt it," Eryx said, stopping her. "But I rather not take any chances right now. Get to Will's room and lock the doors. Got it?"

Meera wanted to argue. She wanted to protest and stand her ground. But Eryx's expression told her she stood no chance. As her heart fluttered inside her chest, she let her eyes flicker to the door once more.

"Go," Eryx reached out and touched the edge of her face. "I'll be right behind you."

With a small nod, Meera stepped back. She quietly walked to the railing and looked down into the darkness below. The wind blew against her face and howled beside her ear. Eryx scooped her up into his arms and helped her over the railing, setting her on the narrow ledge.

"Stay close to the wall," he said. "Don't look down."

Meera took in a shaky breath. She pressed her hands flat against the castle walls as her feet began to slide forward. Her heart raced with adrenaline, her fingers gripping the cold stone tightly. The wind whipped around her, threatening to push her off balance as she clung to the wall. Below, the ground yawned open like a hungry abyss, beckoning with its terrifying depths.

Eryx leaned over the railing, his eyes scanning the darkness beyond. The tension in his muscles was palpable as he kept watch, every sense alert for any sign of danger. Meera stole a glance at him, her chest tight with worry.

"Be careful," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the howling wind.

Eryx nodded, his jaw set in determination. "I will," he promised, his gaze meeting hers for a fleeting moment before returning to his vigil.

With a final, reassuring nod, Eryx turned away, his focus shifting to the soldiers at the door. Meera watched him disappear into the shadows, her heart heavy with fear and uncertainty. But she knew she had to trust him.

Taking a deep breath to steady her nerves, Meera forced herself to focus on the task ahead. With trembling steps, she began to inch along the narrow ledge, her eyes fixed on the faint glow of Will's balcony in the distance. Each movement was a test of her courage, a battle against the overwhelming sense of vertigo threatening to overwhelm her.

But she pushed on, driven by the desperate need to escape the danger lurking behind her and find refuge in the safety of Will's room. And as she drew closer to her destination, her determination grew stronger, fueling her resolve to see the journey through to the end.

With just a single foot of space remaining, Meera lunged forward and seized the railing of Will's balcony, a rush of relief flooding through her as she finally grasped onto something solid. Breathing deeply, she savored the taste of freedom for the first time since setting foot on the narrow ledge, her heartbeat gradually slowing to a more steady rhythm as she stole a glance back at Venna's balcony.

Through the translucent curtains and glass panes, the silhouette of Eryx's majestic silver wolf caught her eye, pacing with restless energy before the door, a silent sentinel awaiting the inevitable intrusion.

"Go."

Sensing her presence, Eryx's command echoed in her mind, urging her to seek refuge indoors.

With a determined nod, Meera hoisted herself over the railing and stumbled onto the safety of Will's balcony, her lungs burning with the effort as she flung open the doors and hurried into the room beyond. As Meera stumbled into the dimly lit room, her eyes adjusted to the unexpected scene before her, and her breath caught in her throat.

Venna's hair cascaded down her shoulders as she sat on the edge of Will's table. Her dress barely clinging to her body, her lips parting in a moment of undeniable pleasure, while Will stood between her legs, his hands touching her the same way his brother's had been on Meera just moments before.

Shocked and in disbelief, Meera gasped, catching the pair's attention.

"Meera!" Venna's voice broke the silence as her eyes widened.

Her face flushed with embarrassment as she hurriedly snatched her dress from the nearby desk, hastily covering herself. Will, too, scrambled to compose himself, hastily buckling his pants as he stepped away from Venna.

The air in the room grew heavy with tension as the trio exchanged awkward glances, each one grappling with the sudden intrusion and the palpable sense of discomfort that hung in the air like a heavy fog. Meera stood frozen. The air felt thick, suffocating, as though she had stepped into a nightmare from which she couldn't wake.

"It's not what you're thinking," Venna's words sliced through the tension, but Meera's mind refused to process them. She watched, a silent witness to the scene unfolding before her, as Venna stumbled off the table, caught in Will's grasp. The fabric of her dress tangled around her legs, mirroring the chaos of Meera's thoughts.

Meera took a step back, her hands trembling at her sides, her gaze darting between Venna and Will. The sight of them together, their lips meeting in a kiss that seemed to echo through the room, sent shockwaves reverberating through her entire being.

"What are you doing here?" Will's voice broke through the haze, but Meera struggled to comprehend his words. Her mind was consumed by the image burned into her memory.

"He's..." Meera's voice faltered her words barely a whisper as she struggled to make sense of the situation. "He's your brother."

"No!" Venna's protest fell on deaf ears as Meera's horror mounted with each passing moment. "It's not like that!"

"Meera, it's not what you're thinking," Will's voice pleaded for understanding, but Meera could only stare in disbelief.

"That's your little sister!" Meera's words echoed in the silence, her voice a tremulous mix of shock and disgust. The room spun around her, a whirlwind of emotions threatening to engulf her completely.

"No, Meera," Venna shook her head and stepped forward, her eyes watering as she reached out. "Listen. Please, let me explain."

Meera started in horror. She could see the love bites on Venna's neck and it caused her stomach to churn.

"Do you remember the story about the song bird?" Venna asked. "And the Prince?"

Meera remained silent.

"Will is not my brother, Meera," Venna declared, her voice trembling. "Queen Tulla bought me from my parents because Will's twin sister died at birth."

"You two grew up together!" Meera shook her head, refusing to understand any logic. "Does Eryx know about this? He cares so much for you, Vee. You're his little sister. Or do you not consider him to be your brother either?"

"I love Eryx," Venna cried. "I do see him as my elder brother-"

"So is Will!"

"I love him!" Venna yelled. "I love him so much, Meera! Will you please just try to understand?"

"Venna, no," Meera shook her head. She looked at Will who stood beside Venna quietly. "This is wrong....for so many reasons."

"No," Venna's voice shook as she sobbed. "Don't say that. It's not wrong. I love him. Like you love Eryx."

"Vee-" Will took her hand as a silent plea to stop her from raising her voice.

"Tell her, Will," Venna's tear filled eyes turned toward the young boy. "It's not wrong. What we have is not wrong."

Will couldn't meet Venna's eyes. He tried his best to calm her but his gaze was lowered as if he was afraid of showing her the truth. Meera was so preoccupied by the scene before her that she almost jumped out of her skin when Eryx's voice appeared inside her mind.

Open the door, Meera.

Meera jumped, her eyes focusing once more and her heart lodging into her throat. She wiped her eyes and turned toward the closed door.

"Where are you going?" Venna asked, pushing Will back and following Meera. As they neared the door, she leaped forward and grabbed Meera's arm. "Please don't tell Eryx. It'll hurt him so much. Please, Meera."

"Get out of my way, Venna," Meera's voice was firm, resolute, but Venna refused to yield, her grip tightening on Meera's arm as she pulled her back from the door.

"Meera, no!" Venna's plea fell on deaf ears as Meera struggled against her hold.

She managed to grab the doorknob and turn it just as Venna yanked her back. The air crackled with tension as Eryx's wolf materialized in the doorway, his presence commanding attention.

Meera froze, her hand hovering over the doorknob, as the wolf's gaze fixated on Venna. His nostrils flared, scenting the air with a primal instinct that spoke of danger and dominance. It was as if the very essence of the wild had been summoned into the room, embodied in the sleek form of the wolf.

With a menacing snarl, the wolf took a step forward, his eyes alight with a fierce intensity. His stance was predatory, his muscles coiled like springs ready to pounce. It was a silent warning, a reminder of the primal force that lurked within him. Meera's heart pounded in her chest as she felt the weight of the wolf's gaze upon her.

"What's the matter?" Eryx asked.

Before Meera could answer, Will stepped forward, his eyes full of concern.

"Eryx?" He asked, looking at the wolf. "What's going on?"

"Tell him we have to go, Meera," Eryx spoke through their mind link. "The king's men are after us."

"We have to go, Will," Meera repeated. "The King's men are after us."

"What do you mean?" Will looked back at Meera.

"The king and council do not accept our marriage," Meera explained.

"We don't have much time," Eryx nudged Meera's hand with his snout. "Let's go."

"We have to go," Meera said, following the wolf.

"Go where?" Will asked, his eyes alarmed. "Surly, Eryx can speak to Father."

"You don't send soldiers if your intentions are to talk," Eryx said. "Let's go, Mere."

With one last look at Venna and Will, Meera wasted no time in following the wolf out the door. She scrambled onto his back, her fingers grasping at his fur as if it were her lifeline. Burying her face in the thick mane, she steeled herself for what was to come as Eryx surged forward, his powerful strides echoing down the corridors.

Meera's heart pounded against her ribcage as the wolf effortlessly leaped over barricades and brushed past startled guards. Ignoring their shouts of protest, he charged out of the palace and into the looming tower.

'Change into your training gear,' Eryx commanded sharply. "Pack a bag for us. Grab the daggers, a healing kit, and some food. Take whatever you can. Hurry."

Meera didn't hesitate. She slid down from Eryx's back and dashed into the shadowy halls of the tower, where supplies lay in wait. With trembling hands fueled by adrenaline, she snatched up a bag from the shelves and swiftly began to fill it with essentials, all the while feeling the weight of urgency bearing down on her.

As she shed Venna's dress and donned her black combat gear, Meera's mind raced with a thousand thoughts, but she couldn't afford to dwell on them. There was no time for hesitation, only action.

"Hair up," Eryx's voice cut through her thoughts, snapping her back to the present.

"I can't," Meera murmured, frustration lacing her words as she shoved her unruly locks into the confines of her shirt. "You know I can't do my own hair."

"I'll put it on the list of things I have to teach you," Eryx lowered himself. "Get on."

Meera tightened the strap of the bag across her body, her eyes searching his. "Where are we going?" she asked, her voice tinged with uncertainty as she climbed onto the wolf's back.

"I have a friend who might be able to help us," Eryx replied. "Hold on tight. Once those doors open, I'm not stopping, M."

Meera nodded, her grip on Eryx's fur firm as she settled herself into position. She braced herself for the impending rush as Eryx pushed open the doors with a determined thrust of his head. Snowflakes danced in the air, signaling the onset of a cold winter's night as they stepped out into the biting wind. As Eryx navigated the shadows with ease, Meera couldn't help but voice her concern.

"Don't get too close to the walls," she warned, her eyes darting nervously around their surroundings.

"Don't worry," Eryx reassured her, his confidence unwavering. "I know a way out."

With silent determination, Eryx led them through the darkness, using the cover of night and the winter foliage to conceal their movements. Each step was deliberate, guided by years of familiarity with the terrain. As they reached the hedge maze, Eryx paused, his form still amidst the shadows.

"If you ever find yourself in a Vorean maze," he began in a low voice, "always pay attention to the opening."

Meera leaned in, her curiosity piqued. "What do you mean?" she whispered.

"If the entrance of a maze faces north," Eryx explained, his words measured, "follow the right side wall, and it will guide you to the exit. If it faces south, follow the left."

As Eryx spoke, the wolf glided through the darkness of the maze with a fluidity that seemed almost otherworldly. Meera clung to him, her trust unwavering, until they arrived at a small wooden door concealed behind a veil of vines and rocksAs they arrived to the hedge maze, Eryx still for a brief second.

"Like your doors in Azmeera," Eryx mused.

"There are no guards here?" Meera asked.

"No," Eryx replied. "This used to be a service entrance. It was blocked off years ago but I dug it out for personal use."

"Personal use?" Meera arched her brow. "Why would you need to sneak in and out of the palace, your grace?"

"Maybe I'll tell you about it someday," Eryx laughed.

As Eryx exerted his strength to push open the door, the wooden barrier yielded to his power, granting them passage into the darkened alleys beyond. Meera lifted her head, her eyes widening in awe as she beheld the wintry kingdom spread out before her.

"So this is Voreios," she breathed, her voice barely above a whisper.

Eryx nodded solemnly as he set off down the winding road, his strides purposeful and determined.

The kingdom of Voreios sprawled before them, nestled amidst towering mountain cliffs that reached toward the star-strewn sky. Homes adorned the landscape, their roofs blanketed in pristine layers of snow, each dwelling a cozy refuge against the biting cold.

Sparse evergreen trees dotted the landscape, their boughs bowed low beneath the weight of the glistening snow, reminiscent of solemn sentinels guarding the kingdom's secrets. The icy ground crunched beneath their feet, mingled with the occasional pebbles of salt scattered to combat the treacherous frost. Despite the chill of the night air, the scent of wood smoke hung thick in the atmosphere, a comforting aroma that whispered of hearth fires burning bright within the shelter of Voreios' homes. In the silence of the night, the kingdom seemed to hold its breath, enveloped in a serene stillness.

"How much farther?" Meera asked, lowering herself toward Eryx once more.

"Just a bit more," Eryx replied.

"Who is this friend?" Meera inquired softly.

"Her name is Nazreen," Eryx replied. "She's married to Duke Imber."

Meera nodded, absorbing the information as they approached a grand stone home. The flickering torchlight outside illuminated the entrance, but all other signs of life remained concealed within the darkness of the house. With a silent gesture from Eryx, Meera dismounted from his back and stepped back, her senses alert as they awaited a response.

Eryx approached the door with a quiet determination, emitting a low rumble from deep within his chest. Suddenly, the locks clicked open, and a tall figure emerged, shrouded in a cloak and holding a lantern.

"I knew you would come," the figure stated with a calm certainty, her voice echoing through the still night air.

Meera edged closer to Eryx, her gaze fixed on the figure as she removed her hood, revealing a striking woman with cascading golden blonde hair and eyes that gleamed like polished amber. A smile graced her lips as she held up the lantern, the light casting a warm glow on her features.

Upon seeing her, Eryx took another step forward, lowering his head to place his snout under her palm in a gesture of greeting. Meera observed in silence.

"That was quite the show you put on tonight," the woman chuckled softly, her laughter carrying a hint of warmth as her gaze shifted toward Meera. "Hello, Princess."

Eryx glanced back at Meera, sensing her uncertainty, and spoke reassuringly. "She's a friend, M."

Nazreen's attention returned to Meera, her expression softening with a gentle smile. "And by proxy, we are now friends too," she said warmly.

Meera's brow furrowed slightly at the unexpected revelation. "You can hear him?" she asked, her voice tinged with both surprise and curiosity.

Nazreen's eyes flickered briefly towards Eryx before returning to Meera, a subtle smile playing at the corners of her lips.

"Yes," she affirmed with a nod. "It's a long story. One that we can tell you once you come inside."

Meera hesitated for a moment, her gaze shifting between Eryx and Nazreen, before finally nodding in agreement. With timid steps, she followed them into the warmth of Nazreen's home.

"Where's Duke Imber?" Eryx inquired, his eyes scanning the surroundings as they traversed through the residence, navigating along a lengthy corridor.

"He's still at the ball," Nazreen responded. "You know how he is."

"How have you been?" Eryx asked genuine concern in his tone.

"As if you care," Nazreen scoffed, her voice laced with playful bitterness. "The last time I saw you, you were headed for Azmeera. You return, and I never hear from you."

"I've been occupied," Eryx replied, his tone slightly defensive.

"Even for me?" Nazreen arched an eyebrow, her skepticism evident. "Being married must be a full-time job."

Eryx chuckled, trying to diffuse the tension. Meanwhile, Meera listened intently to their exchange, trailing behind quietly. Despite the discomfort brewing in her stomach, she maintained her composure, adhering to the etiquette instilled in her upbringing. Whenever Nazreen or Eryx glanced back at her, she offered a polite smile.

"She doesn't talk much, does she?" Nazreen asked Eryx.

"I've once read the most profound wisdom comes from the quietest souls," Eryx replied, his words directed more to Meera than to Nazreen as he slowed his steps to match hers.

Nazreen observed the interaction with a small smile, her gaze lingering on Meera. As Eryx nudged Meera's hand with his snout, Nazreen's scrutiny intensified. Meera shifted uncomfortably under Nazreen's penetrating gaze, unable to shake off the unsettling feeling that swept over her. For a fleeting moment, something flickered in Nazreen's eyes, causing Meera's stomach to sink with an inexplicable dread.

"Come," the woman said, turning on her heels. "I'll show you to your rooms."

Meera's small hands clutched Eryx's fur as they began to follow. She stuck by the wolf, using his warmth to ground her as Nazreen showed them to the back of the house.

"Imber hardly ever comes here," she said, opening the guest bedroom. "And I don't expect him to be back from the ball until midday tomorrow."

"Thank you," Eryx said with sincerity.

"Do you know where you are going after this?" Nazreen asked.

Before Eryx could respond, Meera interjected, clearing her throat delicately. "We have a few places in mind, but nothing has been decided yet," she replied, her tone measured.

Nazreen nodded, her expression inscrutable. "I see."

As the silence stretched, Meera shifted uncomfortably once more under the weight of Nazreen's gaze. There was an unfamiliar stillness in the woman's brown eyes that unsettled her, causing her stomach to churn with unease.

"I'll let you get settled in," Nazreen finally broke the silence, her tone polite but distant. "Oh, and by the way, Eryx, do come find me once you have shifted back. I've been dying to hear about your travels to the land of spices."

With that, Nazreen turned and walked away, leaving Meera to grapple with the unsettling feeling that lingered in her wake. She watched the woman walk off before she followed Eryx inside and closed the door.

"I'm going to shift," Eryx said.

Meera nodded, standing with her back pressed against the door.

"Are you alright?" Eryx's concern broke through the tense atmosphere.

Meera nodded once more, but her eyes betrayed her true feelings.

"Your eyes don't lie, M," Eryx observed, stepping closer, his voice laced with worry.

"Can you please change back?" Meera's voice was soft, almost a whisper, as the weight of the evening's events began to overwhelm her.

Sensing her vulnerability, Eryx swiftly made his way to the dressing room of the chamber, beginning the transformation back to his human form. Despite Meera's attempt to block out the sound by covering her ears, the unsettling noises of bones shifting and cracking still reached her ears. By the time Eryx finished, Meera found herself sitting on the floor, her knees drawn to her chest, hands tightly pressed against her ears.

When Eryx returned, barefoot and shirtless, the sight of her filled him with deep concern. "Come here," he said gently, extending his hand as he approached her.

Meera looked up, the sternness in her gaze softening as she met Eryx's eyes. With a small nod, she held out her hand, allowing him to pull her to her feet. For a fleeting moment, she felt weightless as Eryx effortlessly drew her against him, wrapping his arms around her.

Lowering his head, Eryx captured her lips in a tender kiss, his warmth enveloping Meera, momentarily startling her with its intensity. But in that moment, amidst the chaos of the evening, she found solace in his embrace, a sense of calm washing over her.

"Are you leaving to go see Nazreen?" Meera's voice carried a hint of unease as she spoke, her gaze lowered and a subtle pout forming on her full lips. Eryx couldn't help but chuckle softly, though his chest tightened at the sight of Meera's nervous fidgeting, her teeth worrying at her bottom lip and her cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

"I'm not going anywhere, silly girl," he reassured her, gently setting her feet back on the ground and cupping her face in his hands. "This is where I want to be."

"But we shouldn't be rude to our host," Meera insisted, her concern evident in her voice.

"She'll be fine," Eryx insisted, trying to ease her worries.

Meera bit down on her lip once more, her gaze fixed on her hands against Eryx's chest. She struggled to articulate her thoughts as the weight of his intense gaze bore down on her, heating her cheeks.

"What is it?" Eryx's inquiry broke through the silence, his concern evident.

"What kind of friend is she?" Meera's eyes lifted to meet Eryx's, searching for reassurance.

Eryx's shoulders tensed imperceptibly under Meera's touch, though he tried to hide it. Despite his attempt, Meera felt a knot form in her gut, sensing his hesitation as he began to speak.

"There was a time when Nazreen and I were more than friends," he admitted his words hanging heavily in the air.

Meera's arm slowly lowered, her instinct urging her to step away, but before she could, Eryx pulled her closer to him, his arms enveloping her protectively.

"It happened years ago," he continued, his tone earnest. "Nothing has happened between the two of us since we were young and reckless."

As Meera listened to Eryx's explanation, a tumult of emotions surged within her. Jealousy, like a raging inferno, ignited in the depths of her chest, consuming her with its fiery intensity. The back of her throat tightened, constricting with the force of her emotions, as her heart pounded in her ears.

Her once calm demeanor gave way to a restless unease, her skin prickling with the heat of jealousy coursing through her veins. Every inch of her body seemed to buzz with tension, her belly churning with turmoil as she struggled to contain the storm of emotions brewing within her.

"Shall I show you how little she means to me, my moon?" Eryx asked, sensing her jealousy. He leaned forward and placed his mouth beside Meera's ear. "Shall I get down on my knees and worship you until you breathe my name with every breath?"

Meera looked away, her stubbornness fighting the fluttering in her heart. She tried to hide the coy smile on her lips but her cheeks betrayed her as all the blood in her body rushed to her cheeks.

"Hmm," Eryx's chest rumbled seeing the flush against Meera's skin. He leaned forward and nudged her head back with his nose. His lips began to roam over her exposed throat, running up and down and nibbling with playful bites.

"She's been a friend for a very long time, M," Eryx said as his lips made their way back to her ear. "Just a friend."

Feeling her toes tingle, Meera slowly nodded her head. When she lifted her eyes, Eryx swopped down and kissed her hard, stealing her breath away. His mouth was hungry, tugging and pulling at Meera and crushing her to his mouth until she whimpered. Out of breath, Eryx pulled back. He lowered his head to Meera's and inhaled her scent.

"I've wanted to taste the jealousy on your lips for the longest," he said, letting out a long sigh.

"Is that why you brought me here?" Meera poked. "You're so cruel."

Eryx chuckled, a hearty laugh that made Meera's belly tingle. With one last tight squeeze, he sat her down on her feet and kissed her cheek.

"No, my love," he said. "I brought you here because this is the only place in the whole kingdom where my father won't think to check."

"Are you sure we can trust her?" Meera asked.

"What do you mean?" Eryx asked, looking over his shoulder as he walked to the bed and took a seat.

"Nazreen," Meera said once more. "Can we trust her?"

"Of course," Eryx nodded.

Meera remained standing. She slowly nodded as she molded over the interaction between the pair. Her eyes lowered and her brows furrowed in concentration. Eryx watched her, feeling a sense of unease come over him.

"Meera?" He called to her softly. "What is it? What's on your mind?"

"You can speak to her through your thoughts," Meera looked up, her eyes shimmering with questions like a still lake at midday. "How is that possible?"

Eryx took in another deep breath. The tension on his shoulder could be sliced with a knife as he listened to Meera's question.

"A long time ago," Eryx began with caution. "I thought Nazreen was who I wanted to spend my life with."

His words struck Meera like an icy arctic blast. Her hands clenched at her side as the sick feeling in her belly intensified and she dug her nails into her finger.

"I chose to extend my mind link to her," Eryx continued. His eyes shifted back to Meera.

Her gaze was full of disapproval. She tried to keep her expression neutral as if his words and the knowledge of his past did not bother her, but she did not succeed.

"It was all before," Eryx reminded her. "Way before I went to Azmeera."

"Why didn't you marry her?" Meera's voice trembled slightly as she voiced her inner turmoil. "You seemed so sure."

Eryx shook his head, his expression reflecting a mix of regret and understanding. "I wasn't," he admitted softly. "I acted impulsively, without truly considering what I wanted. When the time came to make a real commitment, I realized she wasn't the one for me."

Meera's gaze remained fixed on him, her thoughts racing as she tried to make sense of her emotions.

"Meera," Eryx's voice broke through her thoughts, his tone filled with sincerity. "I was young, younger than Venna and Will. I didn't know what I wanted."

At the mention of Venna and Will, Meera felt her breath catch in her throat. Her shoulders stiffened, and the color drained from her face as a wave of emotions washed over her. Eryx watched with concern as Meera's brows furrowed, her features contorting with the weight of her emotions.

"What is it?" Eryx asked, his senses on high alert as he noticed the sudden shift in Meera's demeanor.

"Venna..." Meera began, her brows furrowing in confusion. "She's not your sister, is she?"

A tense silence filled the air as Meera's question lingered, and Eryx's features began to tense as realization dawned upon him.

"How did you find out?" Eryx inquired. "Not that I was trying to keep it from you. I see her as my sister."

Meera felt a wave of sickness wash over her as she recalled the sight of Venna and Will together.

"I saw her... And Will," she confessed, her voice trembling with emotion.

Eryx's jaw clenched, a flicker of anguish crossing his face as if he had hoped Meera wouldn't mention those words. He closed his eyes briefly, rubbing his forehead in a futile attempt to ease the throbbing headache that was beginning to form.

"You know about them," Meera stated, her voice tinged with sadness as she observed Eryx's reaction.

Eryx took a deep breath before exhaling heavily. "Yes," he admitted wearily.

"And?" Meera pressed.

"I don't approve of it," Eryx confessed, meeting Meera's gaze. "Nobody approves of it."

"But it's happening, and it's wrong!" Meera interjected, her tone filled with conviction.

"I know," Eryx acknowledged solemnly. "Trust me, I know. I've watched them both grow up together."

"Where is Venna's family? Why is she here?" Meera questioned.

"Because of my mother," Eryx explained, his voice tinged with sadness. "Will had a twin sister, but she didn't survive birth. My mother fell into a deep depression afterward. When we traveled to Silverkeeps for the summer, Will became attached to the housekeeper's daughter there, as did my mother."

Meera listened with astonishment as Eryx recounted the family's history. She moved closer, taking a seat beside him, her expression softening with understanding as she absorbed the complexities of their situation.

"When it was time to leave, my mother wanted to bring Venna with us," Eryx continued. "She made the family an offer they couldn't refuse."

"They sold their daughter?" Meera's voice shook.

"They saw a chance for her to have a better life," Eryx explained. "And the money my mother offered them insured a better life for the rest of their kids too."

"When did you find out about them?" Meera asked.

"I had my suspicions," Eryx stared at his hands as his elbows rested on his knees. "Then one day, right after they both turned twelve, I caught them kissing in the maze."

"What did you do?"

"What any brother would do when they catch someone kissing their little sister," Eryx said. "I punched Will in the face."

Meera opened her mouth but didn't have anything to say.

"And I dragged them to my mother," Eryx continued. "Told her what they were up to and from that day on, it was forbidden for them to ever do anything like that."

"Obviously that didn't work," Meera muttered.

"No," Eryx rubbed his jaw. "Andrick caught them again. But by then Will had started to understand all of our disapproval. He knows he shouldn't give but the boy has no self-discipline."

"And Venna?" Meera asked.

"Venna," Eryx sighed heavily. "She refuses to understand. She loves him and thinks she can change his mind."

"What do you mean?" Meera pressed, her brow furrowing in concern.

"Will is the reason for Venna's instability," Eryx explained, his voice tinged with sorrow. "When she has his attention, she's the happiest. But when Will starts to feel guilty and pulls away, she spirals down the darkest of roads."

"Why are they still living together?" Meera questioned, her concern evident.

"They were separated," Eryx clarified. "Will was sent away to complete his studies. We thought the time apart would help them. It worked for Will... But it had the opposite effect on Vee."

As Meera processed everything Eryx had explained about Will and Venna, conflicting emotions churned within her, leaving her feeling unsettled and torn. She laid her hand on Eryx's shoulder and gently urged him to look at her.

"What will happen to Venna if we leave?" She asked, her voice full of concern and sorrow.

Eryx searched Meera's eyes. He wanted to ease the worry lines on her face with his mouth. Taking her hand he gently pressed a kiss upon it and held it to his beating heart.

"I don't know," he said, his voice heavy.

"Wherever we decide to go," Meera slowly inhaled. "Can we take Venna with us?"

"I would like that," Eryx nodded.

"Where do we go?" Meera asked.

"I'm not sure yet," Eryx held Meera's hand between his and played with her long slender fingers. "I didn't intend for any of this to turn out the way that it did."

"We can go back to Azmeera," Meera said.

"No," Eryx shook his head. "We would be dragging this mess to your family."

"Could we try talking to them?" Meera's voice was soft, filled with hope and determination. "To your parents and to the council?"

"And say what?" Eryx's chuckle lacked humor, his exhaustion evident in the weariness of his body and the restlessness of his mind. "Even the goddess herself won't allow this union, my moon."

"I don't believe that," Meera countered, shaking her head defiantly. Eryx's gaze softened as he looked towards her.

"Why would she make us mates?" Meera continued, her conviction unwavering.

"Maybe to make an example out of us," Eryx suggested, leaning closer as he wrapped his arm around Meera's waist, pulling her onto his lap and kissing her shoulder.

"No," Meera insisted, her fingers tightening around Eryx's hand as she lifted her lashes to meet his gaze. "I think our stars tell a different story."

A spark of warmth ran down Eryx's back as he drew Meera closer. She released his hand to brush back his curls, her touch imbued with a tenderness that could heal any heartache.

"I think you're right," Eryx conceded after a few moments, a small smile gracing Meera's lips. His eyes remained fixed on her, his love evident in every glance, as his thoughts raced in his mind. "But what about everything else?"

"What do you mean?" Meera asked.

"Don't you want a family someday?" Eryx asked. "To become a mother?"

Meera slowly pulled her bottom lip in between her teeth. She pondered his question for a few seconds before replying.

"Would you love our children any less if they were not ours by blood?"

"No," as Eryx spoke, the corner of his mouth curved up and his eyes filled with a light that made Meera's heart swell.

"Then what else do we have to worry about?" Meera teased. "Besides making it out of Voreios alive?"

Eryx chuckled as he buried his nose in Meered's shoulder and inhaled her scent. He pressed a warm kiss on her skin before leaning back and falling against the pillows with her on his chest.

"You make me want to live, M," he said, cradling her head to his heart. "You give me hope that there's more to life than what is expected of me here."

Meera lifted her head and placed her chin on her hand over his heart, "I want a life with you."

Eryx's smile widened as he placed his arm behind his head and looked at her. He brushed his knuckles over her cheek and hooked her dark locks around his finger.

"Whatever you want," he spoke. "I was yours the moment I saw you."

Meera felt her cheeks blush. She hid her face in his chest for a split second to compose herself before looking up and tucking her hair behind her ears.

"And when was that?" She asked, her face as red as beets. "When did you first see me?"

"Well, I sensed you before I ever saw you," Eryx revealed. "At the docks. When you broke a hole through my ship."

"Why didn't you reveal yourself to me that night?" Meera asked.

"Because there were groups of soldiers making their way over toward you," Eryx explained. "I had to leave to lure them away before you got caught."

Meera laughed, "Thank you, your grace."

"My pleasure, Your Highness," Eryx laughed along with her.

"So the first time you saw me was at the ball?" Meera asked.

"Ball," Eryx muttered with an eye roll. "You mean the night you got engaged to Henry?"

Meera laughed once more seeing the irritation in Eryx's eyes. She moved closer and lifted her head to look at him better.

"What were your first thoughts when you saw me?" She asked.

Eryx began to chuckle, "My first thought when I saw you that night was ...oh, fuck me."

"What?" Meera's eyes widened as she laughed harder. "Why?"

"I knew instantly that I was fucked," Eryx explained. "I saw you and all I thought about was making you mine. All my training, all my studies, all my thoughts went out the window. The only thing that made any sense to me at that moment was carrying you off on my shoulder."

"You were so impossible to read," Meera shook her head. "I stayed up that night thinking about you."

"I know," Eryx nodded. "I watched you."

"How...?"

"Helios," Eryx smiled.

"How often did you do that?"

"Every night," Eryx confessed, watching the blush on Meera's cheeks deepen. "I heard you saying my name in your dreams....and clutching the sheets."

In a swift movement, Eryx turned them around, laying Meera beneath him. He pressed her into the bed, his hand cupping her face to keep her gaze locked with his.

"What did you dream about?" he asked, his voice low and intimate, filled with longing.

"What do you think?" Meera asked, her gaze flickering down toward Eryx's lips. She watched the crooked grin appear and her belly began to tumble.

"One night, as I watched you through Helios's eyes, I heard you breathing my name," Eryx spoke, his voice low as he pinned Meera. "I watched your body curve beneath the sheets and your face twist with need."

Meera's heart fluttered. She lowered her gaze as Eryx's burning touch rooted her to the bed.

"I wanted you so bad that night," Eryx sighed. "And realizing that shocked me."

Meera lifted her lashes.

"I wasn't supposed to want my mate in the ways I wanted you," Eryx explained. "It was forbidden and unthinkable. I thought I could handle myself but knowing you felt it too was maddening."

"So you tried to fight it," Meera whispered.

"I did," Eryx explained. "And it was the hardest thing I had ever done in my whole life. Shifting into my wolf for the first time was easier than staying away from you."

Needing him like air, Meera pushed herself up to her elbows, her lips seeking his. As their mouths met, a surge of warmth ignited between them. Eryx responded eagerly, deepening the kiss as he pulled her closer, his hand moving to gently part her legs as he nestled in between them, their bodies fitting together. He gripped her hips and bit down on her lip before his mouth moved to the curve of her neck. Meera's hand found their way into his hair and she gripped his curls as he pulled her skin into his mouth.

"I know I said I would marry you tonight," Eryx whispered into her ears. "But I'm leaving this up to you right now...."

Meera's belly clenched. Her back curved off the bed as she squeezed his hips between her thighs and felt him pressed into the sweet spot between her legs.

"Not there," she said with great difficulty. "Not in this house."

"I understand," Eryx nodded.

Meera unwrapped her legs from around his waist. She rose up to meet his kiss as he brushed her hair back and helped her sit up. Her head swayed as all the blood in her body returned to her heart, leaving her feeling dizzy. As Eryx stepped back, he held out his hand, pulling Meera to her feet.

"You should change into something more comfortable," Eryx suggested, his eyes tender as they roamed over Meera's fitted black combat gear.

Meera nodded, a small smile playing on her lips as she turned away from him. She reached up, brushing her hair aside, silently requesting assistance with the lace on the back of her corset. Without hesitation, Eryx stepped forward, his movements gentle as he undid the ties and helped her slip out of the restrictive garment.

Once the corset was removed, Eryx stepped back, giving Meera space to change. She pulled a simple dress from their bag, a piece of comfort amidst the chaos of their journey. As she slipped it over her head, Eryx's eyes softened with affection, admiring her with a tenderness that warmed her heart.

With a contented sigh, Meera turned to face him once more, the dress flowing softly around her frame. Eryx reached out, his hand finding hers as they stood together, a silent promise of support and companionship.

As they prepared for bed, the air around them filled with a quiet intimacy, each movement imbued with a sense of closeness and familiarity. With Eryx's help, Meera tucked herself beneath the covers, feeling a sense of peace settle over her as she nestled into his embrace.

In the soft glow of the moonlight filtering through the window, they exchanged whispered words of love and affection, the sound of their kisses mingling in the stillness of the night. And as they drifted off to sleep, Meera sighed against Eryx's chest. The events of the day pulled her under like a strong current. She felt her body relax and all her muscles melted away the tension as she pulled the sheets closer and inhaled Eryx's scent. Her mind began to drift off into her dreams when Arthur suddenly appeared.

"Wake up, Meera," He said. "You can't be asleep right now."

Meera frowned, wondering what he was up to when she suddenly felt something ice cold against her throat. Her eyes snapped open as she was snatched away from the green hills and tossed back into the dark room.

Gasping for air, Meera stared in horror as Nazreen loomed over her, pinning her to the bed with a silver blade against her throat.

"Scream and I will slice your throat open," Nazreen warned. 

A lot of you were correct about Vee and Will lol