A Dance Of Crowns & Thrones | Book I

Chapter 31 | The Tour Of Allegiant

Amidst the shared space of the medical ward's open floor plan, Eko couldn't shake the reality of how the once-private rooms had now transformed into a makeshift shelter for survivors, including her cousin Madison. The communal atmosphere brought an uncomfortable edge, heightened by Madison's evident frustration who had stormed out in search of a moment of peace.

Eko recognized the strain of sharing hitting Madison harder than expected. This communal living situation was a far cry from the autonomy Madison was accustomed to, and it showed in her mood swings. 

Taking cues from Madison's actions, Eko considered the idea of escaping the confines of the overcrowded room. Her stomach grumbled in agreement, signaling that food was a priority. Rising from her makeshift and still disheveled bed, she adjusted her attire – a black shirt tucked into the dark pants resembling the uniforms worn by soldiers during their off-duty moments away from the field.

Without the luxury of a mirror, Eko ran her fingers through her brunette hair, attempting to fashion it into a high ponytail. A quick assessment of her appearance had to suffice in the absence of reflective surfaces. Stepping out into the crowded infirmary, Eko couldn't help but contrast the stark reality with the opulence of the palace she was accustomed to. The lack of decorum, as pointed out by Madison, was a stark departure from the usual standards.

What differentiated Eko from Madison was her familiarity with situations where basic accommodations were the only option. Unlike Madison, Eko had firsthand experience in adapting to less-than-luxurious living conditions. This adaptability was likely influenced by her dual roles—a crowned princess and future queen on one side, and a warrior fighting youma and monsters on the other. It served as a reminder that not everything was glamorous and living in bubble like Madison had only damaged her resilience to the war. 

Stepping over the slumbering figures scattered across the room, she successfully reached the main entrance of the infirmary. As she turned the corridor, much to her astonishment, she noticed a familiar individual entering the same hallways. He had been engaged in a conversation with the administration front desk and the lady who had gestured towards the room she had just left.

A flicker of butterflies sat in her stomach – was he looking for her? A giddy smile spread across Eko's face as she made her way towards Matthew. The infirmary was filled with numerous bodies, yet all he could focus on was the sight of this brunette, petite girl ready to venture out into who-knows-what mischief.

"Hey," Matthew greeted with an infectious smile that stretched from ear to ear. Eko came to a standstill before him, fully aware of his perpetually suspicious demeanor, signaling that he was up to something. Her curiosity peaked, she wanted to know what was behind that mischievous glint in his eyes.

"Come," Matthew nodded without hesitation, signaling for her to follow him.

Eko was guided away from the infirmary, leaving behind the chaotic world within its walls. They entered a vast floor-to-ceiling glass corridor that seamlessly led them back to the center of the academy.

"To what do I owe the visit?" Eko asked, her gaze lifting from beneath her long, dark lashes to the imposing figure of the god-like man beside her.

"Well," he replied, shifting his attention momentarily to her. "Since I have completed everything I needed today, before our departure tomorrow, I thought you might want some company—a tour of the academy?"

"So, does that mean you're all mine for now?" Eko's tone carried a seductive note, and Matthew paused momentarily, amused. She gracefully stepped past him, grinning, and cocked her head over her shoulder, a glint in her eye hinting at potential mischief.

He laughed. How could he not? As she continued ahead, he found himself naturally following her lead.

Unaware of the contemplative thoughts swirling in her mind, similar to Eko, she regarded him as a welcomed blessing – a genuine distraction from the somber anticipation of her next move.