Bryson’s POV“King Desmond, Glenda, and I are here to receive your orders and ready to lead troops to the Withered Hinterland any second at your words,” I respectfully greeted as I kneeled down on one knee with Glenda doing the same beside me.We placed our right arm’s elbow on top of our bended knee and bowed our heads in respect to the King.“You may raise.”After hearing that, Glenda and I stood upright with arms on either side of us.Once the King gestured for the seats on the side, we sat down and waited for him to speak. Looking at his bothered face, a feeling of anxiety rushed through my veins.Did something happen?He let out a sigh as he grabbed the goblet beside him, gulping down its contents before looking up at me. “I need the two of you to lead troops in the Withered Hinterland as soon as possible.”“May we know what happened?” I asked.“Yes, isn’t Prince Deacon already in there? The last time I heard, everything was under control.”I gave Glenda a discreet hiss and glare
Elena’s POV“What was that?”“Did you hear that?”“Are those swords clashing?”Maisy, Saige, and I had jolted awake from our sleep almost simultaneously, throwing the blanket on top of us and getting up from bed with alertness.At first, Prince Deacan wanted to give them another tent to share, but I said they could stay with me. After all, we had a lot of things to catch up on.But what we didn’t expect was to wake up in the middle of the night from a series of screams, bombs, and sounds of clashing swords.We all looked at each other and nodded in understanding. In less than a minute, we had our combat clothes on.“Let’s give them aid. I’ll go to the front. Maise, you're in the west. Saige, you're on the east side,” I commanded while peaking from the in-between of the fabric door.But before we could step out, one of the soldiers rushed in. “Luna Elena, I’m sorry for barging in. I need to evacuate you as per Prince’s ord–”He didn’t manage to finish his words when he looked up and sa
Deacon’s POVThere it was again, that bright smile that seemingly reached the sky, those sparkling eyes like stars, and that joyful laugh that could liven up even the crying clouds.I was breathing heavily as I walked toward Elena, who had herself carelessly slammed on the ground, back leaning on a post log with one leg stretched out while the other bent with her elbow leaning on it as she drank water from the bottle so carelessly that some water spilled to her face. It seemed intentional, though, as if she was trying to refresh herself from that long, exhausting battle.“How many did you kill?” she asked excitedly and so casually, as if it were not Rogues we were talking about.Pride rose in my heart. It seemed like it was just a piece of cake for her.Caressing her cheek after I’ve wiped her face clean, I praised her for killing hundreds of Rogues, which was probably triple what my average warrior managed to do.And all that without much collateral on her part.My eyes wandered on h
Elena’s POVAfter Prince Deacon said he wanted to tell me something, I immediately gulped down the entire bottle of water and stood up to follow him back to his barracks.A jolt of excitement surged through me, making my stomach flutter as Prince Deacon's intoxicating scent filled the air. He slowed his pace to match mine after noticing I was walking behind him to show respect for his rank.I pierced my lips, and my breathing hitched as we walked in synced back to his tent; though we were filled with silence, my excited heartbeat seemingly became our background music.I didn’t know as well why he had this effect on me; probably because he treated me well or because it was just his dominating, aloof, and unpredictable behavior.When we arrived, he placed a cup of refreshing drink in front of me before he sat down opposite my seat.See, he’s a prince, and he’s doing all these. Whose woman wouldn’t have her heart fast-beating?“I’ve investigated how Glenda and Bryson’s winning on the Dea
Elena’s POVAs soon as the word came out of my mouth, I instantly regretted it.“Is there a problem?” Prince Deacon asked, completely confused, which wasn’t surprising as he wasn’t aware of my divorce from Bryson.It’s only natural for him to think that I’d be happy to see my so-called ‘husband’. Unbeknownst to him, I feel nothing but discomfort and anger at the possibility of seeing my ex-husband with his general, whom he replaced me with as his wife and Luna of his pack.Shaking my head, I stood up and gave him a forced smile while secretly feeling the scorching pain surging through my veins and into my heart. “No, I was just surprised, is all.”“If there’s nothing more, then I’ll…” I pointed outside. “I’ll have my rest first.”Bryson’s coming here, for sure Glenda would be with him…Those were my thoughts before I splashed my face with cold water from a basin to clean the dried blood around my face that Prince Deacon didn’t completely wipe off.Through the small mirror, I observed
Elena’s POVWe all turned around to meet Prince Deacon’s humorous eyes despite the sternness we had heard in his voice seconds earlier.Seeing as he was merely teasing, I smiled and raised the bottle. “Come on, Prince Deacon, it’s only a little drink.”“A little?” He raised his brows as he approached our table and grabbed the drink from my hand. He lifted it to his nose and took a quick sniff. “A little drink but of a whisky… Really?”I shrugged my shoulders and kept silent.“It’s only for a celebration, Prince Deacon. Don’t be a party pooper!” Maise uttered, once again, with a mouth out of control.Saige and I looked at her with wide eyes before we cautiously looked back at Prince Deacon, expecting him to be angry.Unexpectedly, he only shook his head and grinned. “Enough with the excuses, ladies. We can’t have you all tipsy or drunk while in a war, could we?”“But…”“No more words. Rules are rules, This…” He gestured to the bottle he was holding and put it on his back. “I’ll be keep
Elena’s POVMy heart momentarily stopped beating as his deep brown eyes lingered in me, seemingly reading my mind and soul through my eyes and searching for the truth. His stare was so deep I feared he could read through the pain I was trying so hard to hide deep inside me. But for some reason, I couldn’t look away.Swallowing, I slowly shook my head and forced a smile. “No, of course not. He wouldn’t dare.”A smile lingered on my lips, but I knew that I couldn’t force the sadness in my eyes as I felt the hollow pain in my chest that was getting heavier as Bryson’s name hung in the air.Deep down in me, I wanted to lessen the burden that was causing the clench in my chest, but I couldn’t utter a single word. Every time I parted my lips, I’d see the smiles on the faces of the warriors as they thought I had a happy marriage.I couldn’t do it. It’s not the proper time nor the proper place.“When you’re ready to speak, remember that I’d be here to listen,” he uttered as he grabbed a jag
Elena’s POVI couldn’t deny how my heart stuttered at his words of praise, but what really froze me and took my breath away was his hands lingering longer than necessary on my cheek.It started as a pinch, but it feels more like a caress right now.“I’m looking forward to you and Bryson’s chemistry in battleship. I’m sure you guys would fight side-by-side so well as husband and wife,” he suddenly uttered, making all the butterflies in my stomach die down and my frozen body rushedly thawed.What’s he doing to me? It’s like he’s bringing me on a rollercoaster ride with his words and unpredictable actions.His hands finally fell on his side while he waited for my reply, but I could only look away. Suddenly, my lap became very interesting as thousands of thoughts ran through my head.I knew he was clueless about my relationship status just as much as every warrior in here. But when I heard them congratulating me and Bryson’s name left Prince’s Deacon’s lips, I couldn’t help but debate wit
Elena’s POVA smile instantly spread to my lips as I shrugged my shoulders. “She tried a little. But it's nothing I can’t handle. Honestly, I found her more manageable than your brother.”Deacon looked at me like I had grown another head, eyes wide open and lips agape. With both brows raised, he spoke, “Manageable?! That’s the first time anyone ever described her that way.”He even let out a small laugh of disbelief.I was about to reply, but a series of honks interrupted me. Looking at the front, I realize that the light was already green. Tapping him on his arm, I pointed outside, “Go!”“Right…” He blinked before looking back at the front and driving, stopping the honks from those behind us.Once we were moving smoothly again, I replied, “She’s… aggressive in her own way, but at least she’s upfront. I respect that more than passive jabs and fake smiles.”Having someone straightforward was easier. I at least know how I should handle them. Unlike King Desmond, whose every move seemed
Elena’s POVWe were nearing the place where our car was parked when Zara suddenly nudged me.“What?” I asked in confusion and followed the direction she was signalling, finding many high-ranking officials gathered in the nearby garden shed with Deacon.“Should we greet him?” Zara whispered as I kept my eyes on Deacon. After a bit of inner contemplation, I nodded my head and started to walk.“Gentlemen,” I greeted, interrupting their conversation.Slowly, Deacon, who had his back to me, turned around with a look of surprise in his eyes. “Done already?” he asked.Laughing a little, I raised a brow at him as I gestured to the time on his watch. “Looks like you are expecting for longer? I even gave Queen Liz a visit.”His lips stretched into a smile as he stared at me with admiration. “I didn’t know my wife-to-be was so capable.”Standing up, he went beside me and waved his hand at his friends before guiding me a few feet away from them.With a bit more privacy around us, I became more se
King Desmond’s POVAfter my talk with my mom, I left the room and went to the rooftop, my hands leaning against the cemented fence as I looked out over the quiet forest in front of me. I watched over the entire kingdom, where there were barely any lights, and tranquillity filled the surroundings.The cold night breeze brushed against my face and skin, its chilly sensation similar to the slow freezing of my heart.A painful smile formed on my lips as I thought about the upcoming marriage between my brother and Elena.I sighed and shook my head to dismiss any unpleasant thoughts that were coming into my mind.I was indeed happy for my brother, and he’d always be my brother, whom I would cherish. But despite all the games I made them think I was playing, it’s true that there’s a part of me that was serious about my marriage proposal toward Elena.The chill in my heart was slowly spreading through my body when I suddenly felt warmth radiating from my side. My mother stood beside me, her b
King Desmond’s POVAs soon as the door closed behind Elena, I cracked up laughing. Looking at my Mom while pointing at the door, I said, “Did you see her face? I haven’t seen Elena that flustered since we were kids when she fell into the pond!”My mom walked slowly toward me with narrowed eyes before she slapped me on the back of my head. “Mom! I’m the king!”She raised her brows strictly like she used to do when I was being naughty as a kid. With her arms on her hips, she firmly stated, “And I’m your mother.”Frowning, she sat opposite her and shook her head. “She’s not that little girl anymore, Desmond. Don’t keep teasing her. She already endured more than enough with the tragedy she faced.”“I wasn’t being cruel, Mom. I just wanted to see…” My smile widened as I continued, “I just want to see if there’s really a spark.”She shook her head like she had had enough of me and waved her hand in dismissal. “If you’re too bored, go back to your Luna to play instead of playing cupid or wha
Elena’s POVNot even for a second did I question Deacon’s choices during the battle. Not back then, and not now.The trust I had in him wasn’t blind either. It was earned. It was built steadily through everything I’d witnessed, from the way he carried himself among the ranks to the way his soldiers listened to him without hesitation. He was calculating. Fair. A strategist through and through. And that’s one of the many reasons why I admire him not only as a person but also as a leader.And besides, whatever personal disagreements Bryson and I might’ve had, they had no place on the battlefield. In war, we fought as one. We bled under the same purpose.That’s why when the king asked me such a question, where he was obviously trying to find dirt on Deacon, I got irritated a little, which I tried hard to hide. He was still, after all, the King.When I didn’t respond right away, King Desmond leaned back in his chair in a relaxed manner, but his calculating eyes didn’t escape my gaze. He
Elena’s POVQueen Liz and I laughed at Zara’s sudden outburst.“Seemed like I wasn’t the only one triggered by the Duchess’ words,” Queen Liz said, making all of us laugh.Suddenly, despite the scorching heat outside and the torment the Duchess tried to throw at my way, being in here made things feel a bit lighter.“This juice is a lifesaver. I thought my skin would melt on that walk back,” I exaggeratedly said as I gulped another glass in one go.Leaning back to her seat with her head back and arms spread, Zara complained, “Oh, tell me about it, Princess. I can barely feel my legs!”“But seriously, the same woman now dreads your next visit. Elena, you’ve just made life here in this dull palace a whole level more exciting,” Queen Liz uttered before taking a sip of her drink.She didn’t even look fazed by all that was happening to it. It seemed like drama was a normal thing in the palace, and it had now become more like an entertainment than an actual problem, from how often it happene
Elena’s POVMy smile got even brighter as I stared at her innocent eyes and lovely smile. She has that bright sunshine around her like I used to have before. Looking at her was like seeing a walking beam of joy.“What do you mean by fate? It’s not sure yet?” she asked so innocently, making me laugh a little. Shrugging, I smiled gently and teased a little. “It means I’ll definitely be your sister if your cousin doesn’t change his mind.”She giggled at my words before letting out a joking scoff. “He’d be a fool if he did that. Everyone talks about how amazing you are! You’re the most admired general now.”I patted her head and shook my head. She’s so adorable. “What a sweet tongue you have.”Tapping her nose, I added, “I only did what must be done. And don’t tell that to your cousin, he’d be jealous. He’s the best of all.”She pursed her lips and touched her chin while thinking for a bit before shrugging as she gave in. “Well, you’re right, but still, you’re the best female general.”H
Elena’s POVMy eyes shifted to the door just as the Duchess’ eyes did. And there, a girl peeked from the door with a huge smile on her face.Her eyes wandered around first before she stepped fully inside, showcasing her beautiful cocktail dress, styled with glitter on the hem.“Mom, I hear Princess Elena is here!” She came in and jumped in joy as she confronted her mother.She’s about 5 feet tall, and I’d say around fifteen years old from her appearance and demeanour. Her eyes were glistening with curiosity, and she was all giddy, making little jumps in place.Duchess Diana wasn’t even given enough time to reply with all her energy as she turned around and looked until her eyes met mine.She froze for a little while, staring at me like she was starstruck.“Princess Katherine.” I bowed a little and greeted her with respect. Despite our same title and age difference, she’s still a full-fledged princess and deserves respect. Besides, she’s also Deacon’s cousin, so… Might as well.“You ar
Elena’s POVI wanted to laugh at the Duchess’ remark. I didn’t ask her for forgiveness, and yet she felt like I had committed a grave sin that needed forgiveness, and wanted to act like the better person.Going with the flow, she sat, I played with it and bowed my head a little out of respect while keeping my dignity. “Thank you, Duchess Diana.” Looking back up at her, I smile and kindly add, “But about my marriage with Deacon… It’s something the two of us will decide. I am willing to marry him, and should he continue with it… I guess no one else has the right to determine my worth.”“Ha!” Hearing my words, Duchess Diana’s patience snapped. She slammed her hand on her chair as she stood up, looking at me with narrowed eyes.Dripping with disdain, she smirked devilishly and commented sarcastically, “What a humble servant at best, playing a goody-two-shoes act. Mark my words, you insolent woman, once whatever potion you gave my son wears off, he’ll abandon you like he did to others befo