"So you're telling me that no one could see us? Still can't?"

I gave Cara a wry smile. "Sera isn't here but you know, witch magic is also used at times. So yes."

Cara caught her breath and gulped down some more water from the glasses and container kept out here. I watched, slowly sipping on my own glass of clear liquid.

It had been two days since we had the midnight rendezvous in her room and as promised, here we were, working on making her stronger.

We started basic.

So of course running and stamina came first. She didn't complain though; taking whatever I threw her way ploughing ahead.

I could tell with some daily practice her rusty skills could be honed. And as she would start eating even healthier to catch up on five years of malnutrition, her body would start to fill out more as well. Although these two weeks have already worked some magic on her sickly pale and thin body.

She had a proper peach complexion now, her soft looking onyx hair french braided as usual. Cara's bosom wasn't that bad either and her waist was thin before slightly curving over her hips. Legs that were long and could still put on some meat, slender neck, arms that looked weak like twigs but as I found out were certainly not that bad.

For the past three hours after the running warm up of one hour, I'd shown her core movements, stances and positions while wielding a sword.

It almost took me by surprise how well with a few pointers she wielded the sword and cleaved the air that I thought it wasn't the first time she'd held and worked with a sword.

I hated that I couldn't remember who her current room belonged to. That was plain stupid. I mean, why wouldn't I know? The headache that ensued when I tried to remember was mind boggling.

Cara wiped her mouth and her jade eyes observed the scenery around us.

I'd brought Cara to the backyard of the training room. Shielded by illusion magic we were in our own world for the time being.

"Eat more and keep up the practice even if I'm not there." Which is a given.

Cara nodded and we wrapped up for today's lesson. I'd already done something inexplicable by taking out about five hours to spend on this slave and it was truly irking me now.

Yes, I wouldn't accept someone else calling her a slave when that was no longer her position in my Court but that didn't mean it was the same for me. I knew where she came from and that wouldn't change so easily. Especially with how she affected me despite being a human.

"I have some matters to take care of." I pulled on the open buttons of my tunic and ran a hand through my hair.

Cara's eyes followed the move and I smirked even as she responded, "Of course, Your Majesty."

With that, I turned around still hearing her gulps of air, sure that her muscles were aching but without a look back, I headed to the meeting room.

•○•

"The witches we called in have made a coven of their own. Someone called Esmeralda is their current leader." Mark filled us in on the witches' arrival.

Darr stood up next. "I have reports that Hellion has been completely annexed. Lord Brax though isn't in hiding but neither is he on Killian's side." He was the shapeshifter who had gotten hurt on our way here by the witch trap. Darr was also in charge of all the spies and Valeryn court's working in the shadows.

One Minister interrupted with a question, "But who knows when he will join hands with that devil's son?"

I looked on silently as Darr nodded before proceeding to answer.

"A fair doubt but it seems that he's been rallying his people for some other cause. Either way I have confidence in the sure reports our spies have sent. We have no threats from the Lord but it would benefit us if we were to sway him to our side."

Lord Brax of the Unseelie Court, or more like the court of any creature with a darker streak in their soul, unwilling to be a part of Hellion, controlled the jurisdiction of the dark Fae, warlocks, gnomes, brownies or faerie folk.

He did not have an official place but he was known to be a ferocious warrior who after the epic Great Battle four hundred fifty years ago went into the shadows. No one has seen him in centuries and he keeps to himself. Much like the Alpha King of Adalda but still different .

But neither kingdom has intervened because Lord Brax does a good job at keeping that mischievous folk under control. Apparently, he's on neutral grounds right now but in the future we can't afford to have his territory, that's closest to Hellion, be under Killan's control. Braxton - Lord Brax's territory - is a small world in itself.

"For now, I believe that's satisfactory. But we should get the witches to make some spells and charms for us in case the need for them arises." Minister Farrell advised and the rest of the occupants of the meeting room voiced their agreements.

"Where are they residing in Valeryn right now?" I inquired, the others turning silent.

"The witches have been given a site on the west side of the marketplace in the capital- Malaar. They've set up camp there and for now both Dark and White witches are holding back on causing havoc." General Markus answered me and I hummed.

"Then that's settled. I'll take a look tomorrow and meet this leader, Esmeralda and talk out the next course of actions."

Everyone nodded their consent and I stood up, my cloak flowing behind me at the movement. "Meeting dismissed."

I'd be busy for the next few days. Court duties. I'm just glad no one brought up the human slave girl turned Fae Princess's handmaiden.

Cara had been a topic of all sorts of rumors and gossip and I was more than aware. Though I was in no mood to confront a court member bringing her up when she was already on my mind.

Which needed to change and I knew exactly what would help.

•○•

My lips trailed over the unblemished pale skin of the Lady's neck, but not tempting me to bite it.

I was envisioning peach complexion that I would turn red, sucking on the sweet spot.

No. Stop, Arion.

Hands were tugging on my hair as my lips crashed over red painted ones.

But I wanted plump paint free lips.

I pulled back, rolling over to sit with my back against the headboard and one knee drawn up, a pose of a languid king. But my hand ran through my hair in the building frustration.

My hand skimmed over her sides and I watched as she took off the last pieces of her clothing. The scent of her perfume was overpowering the scent of lemons and lilacs that I wanted to fill my room.

I don't want her.

Long legs, pretty face, soft hair, cinched waist, firm breasts and each man's temptation down south. Lady Katherine was a sight to behold, bearing herself naked in front of me. Yet I hadn't even taken my shirt off.

With a heated gaze I watched as she crawled closer and started peppering my jawline and neck with kisses, her hands fumbling to take my shirt off in excitement. I didn't stop her but unlike other times I didn't fondle her body during the process either.

I couldn't.

I wasn't even aroused. And I was clenching my jaw in anger.

Because that state was changed the second I imagined onyx hair flowing down a naked back littered with scars, my hands wrapping around the silky tresses instead of brown curls. Because she was imperfect. She had seen the harsh reality.

I remembered how the last time I'd seen her, that skimpy red nightgown and that sassy mouth. That sharp gaze and that chest I'd gotten heaving. The strand of hair I'd pulled on.

I don't want her.

I was gritting my teeth in irritation when instead of poison green, the thought of jade green eyes staring up at me had me hungrily sweeping my tongue inside Katherine's mouth, her moans no longer turning me on.

I closed my eyes, breathing heavily as the woman's hands trailed over my bare chest, lips soon following that path and all it did was fuel my anger.

I don't want her.

I had this fae beauty willing to do whatever and here I was, tempting for something I clearly shouldn't.

A growl ripped from me as she started going lower and I rolled us over again, back in control.

I don't want her.

I kissed Katherine's chest, biting almost. She moaned like the other times but it made me want to kill someone. It was as if my mind and body felt so fucking repulsed by my actions. I still didn't stop.

I don't want her.

I wrapped the Fae Lady's supple legs around my waist and she complied, her chest heaving with her short breaths, arousal painted her cheeks red.

I don't want her.

I made my way lower, just to prove that I didn't want Cara!

Goddammit!

I clenched my hands but they tightened over Lady Katherine's thighs and she yelped when it hurt her.

I swallowed thickly and pulled away again, my blood boiling and pulled on my shirt. My voice was gritty when I gave Katherine a detached look.

"Out."

Katherine stared at me with wide eyes, her brows furrowing when she caught her breath and the haze of arousal cleared. "W-what?"

I gritted my teeth so hard that I was sure she heard the sound. I leveled her with a harsh gaze. "I said, out."

I could tell she was confused. Never did I do this. I'd sweet talk her out of my room if anything or enjoy our time by taking full advantage. I'd turn the charm on and the flirty comments, a smirk and a heated gaze and that was enough.

But I couldn't even finish what I myself had invited her here for and it was pissing me off.

All I wanted was to get Cara off my mind but instead this attempt made me realize how deep that girl's claws were inside me already. She had somewhat of a grip on me now.

Who was she, a witch? Maybe.

Katherine looked at me with pleading eyes and leaned forward but I couldn't look at her naked self anymore and I hated myself for that.

I started to button up my shirt as I let my feet touch the floor and rustling of clothes could be heard behind me.

"Arion - "

"Shut up, don't say my name and get lost. I'm pissed right now, Katherine. Don't make me rage."

My words were so sharp and cutting, I was surprised myself. Katherine's eyes watered and when I glanced back at her, she'd barely got her corset on and I groaned.

Suddenly the door to my room flew open and almond brown eyes glared straight at me. My enraged face dissolved into an amused one.

I believe I locked my room but what's that when Sera's my sister, I guess.

Her ocher hair was flying around her shoulders as her nostrils flared and her glare turned to Katherine.

Who, no longer tearing up, was instead giving my sister a saucy smile and slowed her process of getting clothed. The scene was certainly fueling my sister's apparent rage and Katherine was clearly trying to agitate my sister who took the bait.

I swallowed a sigh.

"You." Seraphima looked and sounded disgusted. "I was wondering what was stinking up the hallway."

Damn.

I still can't understand the hatred she has for Katherine but alright, it humors me.

Lady Katherine scowled and she flipped her hair which looked vain because she was still half undressed. Sera snickered.

"Stop acting so high and mighty, Seraphima." Katherine's voice was indignant.

Yikes. She already hates you, Katherine. By not properly addressing her why stoke the fire?

Sera breathed in. "Once you stop trying to take what's clearly not yours, I'll surely do that."

I frowned and heaved a sigh.

That was a bad move because that made Sera's attention fly towards me and she gave me an angry look.

I rose a brow.

"Why are you still giving this-" Sera had to cut herself off and replaced whatever curse she had for Katherine, "- Lady, the time of your day?"

Katherine intervened, "Hey! I'm the future Queen, speak respectfully."

That did the trick and the Fae Princess whirled on her, her eyes ablaze. "Let me make something very clear to you."

Sera took a step closer and she looked threatening.

I watched on because I liked the free show. And of course Katherine would never be my queen. The only thing she was good for was now useless as well.

"You will never be the Queen and neither will you ever be by Arion's side." She narrowed her eyes and Katherine stumbled slightly.

I looked at the scene intently because Sera was far too serious this time.

"You're still quite young. And you really shouldn't try to interfere with fate. My brother might still be acting foolish but if you think I will allow such things to happen anymore then you're in for something huge."

It was true that compared to my and Sera's roughly five centuries, Katherine was barely two centuries old. But this was odd.

"Now scurry along and remember what I told you." Sera smiled sweetly, voice dripping with venom and Katherine nervously laughed.

She backed away, her clothes in her hand as she gulped. "I'm not giving up." Then she left. She must've been really creeped out to go ahead for a walk of shame.

Sera scoffed. "Crazy little..."

I ran a hand through my hair and stood up, approaching her.

Her eyes flew to me and instantly narrowed. I rolled my eyes.

"How could you even bring yourself to touch her now?" She sounded exasperated. "What's wrong with you?"

It was like she knew my body and mind better than me and even though she was indeed correct, I only responded with a shrug. I was still in a sour mood.

"I thought you knew better. That you would stop being like this."

I raised my brows, fingers hooked in my pockets. "Being like what?"

"Immature!" She burst out, her gown flailing. "Your actions have consequences, Arion. Especially now."

Her face showed confusing emotions and I tried to keep my own bafflement to the bare minimum.

"I'm an important figure and a King of a whole realm. Of course, my actions have cons--"

"This is different, brother." Her almond eyes softened slightly and I balled my hands. "Please."

She then shook her head to herself. "No, I'm sorry. I was expecting too much too soon. My mistake."

I opened my mouth to pour out my inquisitions, brows scrunched together but Sera once more spoke before I could get a word out.

Her brown eyes stared straight into mine. "I won't ask for much. But don't ignore what your heart is telling you. Fighting against it is futile. Don't be stupid, brother."

She gave me a withering glare and a warning look before turning around. I blinked as her hair almost whipped my face and her words pissed me off even more.

Just before she left, I called out. "I'm going to Malaar tomorrow to check on the witches staying here."

She glanced back at me as she stepped out of my room and I leaned against the door frame. Sera looked to be almost over the whole Katherine fiasco. I have no doubts she thinks we slept together. Little does she know what hell I was going through while pushing myself.

"Oh? I see. Good luck."

I exhaled and rolled my eyes. "I want you to join me. With that handmaiden of yours."

Her eyes immediately lit up and I felt my belief wavering. Cautiously observing her reaction, I was well aware of how the light in her eyes turned to a twinkle as her lips lifted into a smile.

"Oh, we will surely accompany you!" She grinned at me and I was glad she forgot about Katherine but...

Why does Sera like Cara so much?

"And you can call her by name, you know." She rose a brow playfully and I gave her an uncertain smile.

"Right."

I was going to meet some witches so might as well see if there's a goddamned spell on me. Should've known it wouldn't be so easy though. And I had no idea what was going to happen tomorrow. My decision would be one hell of a turning point.

Only.....I didn't know that.

"Then I'll see you tomorrow morning with Cara." The smile my sister wore was nothing short of questionable.

She walked across and freaking knocked on Cara's door and I gave her an exasperated look which she brushed off with a haughty one that made me narrow my eyes.

When the door opened, I was met with jade green eyes and a knot formed in my stomach.

Her expressions were unreadable until she took a deep breath and her eyebrows scrunched a bit. Her eyes looked me over and my rumpled attire, the hair I'd turned messy myself and then she turned to Sera who gave her a bright smile.

Looping their arms, my sister lead them both inside and banged the door in my view without a second glance. Alright, point made, Seraphima.

I doubt I deserved that.

Maybe the witches will know who Cara Arnel is.

Because I sure as hell don't.

•○•

AN~

Oh my, extra long chapter crossing 3K words.

Hey guys! Thanks for the votes and I hope you thoroughly enjoyed the chapter. Uhm, it might have been slightly steamy lol. Though I kept it pretty PG 13. Nah.

What do you think about all this new information and the meet in Malaar with the witches? Hehe.

I'm sorry for the delay but oh well. Now you will have pretty frequent and quick updates yay! Because my exams were cancelled, thank you Corona lol. I was seriously ecstatic ah! I already have the next chapter down and am working on the 35th. So look forward to it!

And thank you for helping me cross 2.5K votes and 13.2K views so quickly! ^^

ANYWAYS! Please do vote, comment and add the book to your libraries and follow me for updates!

Till next time then!

~Skyler