The Dragon Bond: Heirs of Lyra

Chapter 87

Elysia wasn't at dinner. According to Finnian, she had come down with a sudden fever.

"I kept her too busy," Finnian said, scolding himself. 

Ralf gave him an encouraging smile. "I'm sure a night of rest will do her good." Knowing Elysia, she was probably sick of being tied to her fiance all day. 

Ralf had noticed them throughout the day, his sister practically glued to Finnian's hip. It was a wonder she hadn't gone completely mad yet. He could see the boredom in her eyes from a distance. His sister was not in love, that much was obvious to him. Their grandmother, however, was completely convinced it was the perfect match.

Most of the conversation at dinner centered around their wedding. At times, it shifted to Ralf and Karolina's wedding; something he was hesitantly optimistic about. Their relationship, though improving, was still strained. There was an awkwardness now. Both Ralf and Karolina had been ready for it to be over. The sudden news of Henry abdicating his heirs' right to the throne completely shifted Ralf's world. 

Suddenly he was thrown back into a relationship with Karolina. Neither of them seemed convinced it was real. Either that, or they weren't ready for it to be real. It was taking time to recall their previous feelings for each other; taking longer than expected to fall back in love.

But both were confident the relationship would bloom once more, given time. Though the wedding was scheduled soon after Elysia's, there was plenty of time to re-familiarize himself with Karolina. 

After supper, Ralf hung around with the men. Each sipped on their wine, enjoying the night and immersing themselves in conversation. 

Abruptly, Finnian changed the subject. "So who is this guardian person that follows Elysia?"

King Alan cleared his throat, as if he was uncomfortable with the topic. "There isn't much to say. I bought him from his master. He's here to keep Elysia safe."

Finnian leaned forward, "Yes but for how long?"

King Alan frowned. "Forever I suppose. Or until he retires. It's a very serious, long-term business, guardianship. And I certainly paid enough for him."

"Perhaps he could be of use to you here?" Finnian suggested hopefully.

King Alan shook his head. "He was hired to protect Elysia. He goes with her. Trust me, you want him to. She has a knack for getting into trouble when left alone."

Finnian released a discontented breath. "I assure you, I can keep your daughter safe."

"I don't doubt it," King Alan agreed, though his tone remained firm. "But quite frankly you do not know Elysia like I do. You may be able to protect her when she is with you, but I fear the moment you let her out of your sight she may find trouble."

"I don't plan to part her," Finnian insisted, "if she is to be my wife, I would like for her to remain by my side."

King Alan looked doubtful. "Will there not be times when you have important meetings, or instances that require your full attention elsewhere? A king has much on his plate, and if you are to become one, you will certainly not have your queen by your side at all hours of the day."

"I suppose not," Finnian relented wearily. 

"And in those moments when she is alone, you will appreciate she has a guardian to keep her safe. Half the time she needs kept safe from herself. She's a mischievous young lady, you'll soon learn." King Alan finished his wine, as if to calm himself from the conversation.

Ralf was confused as to why Finnian wanted to be rid of Shade so desperately. What was the benefit of Elysia being unprotected? It made Ralf very suspicious. He felt a protective side coming out. What motives did Finnian have for wanting Elysia entirely to himself? 

When Finnian didn't add anything further, King Alan raised his glass in celebration. "Then it's settled. Shade will remain with Elysia for her protection and your sanity."

Finnian raised his glass, his head sunken in defeat. Ralf frowned. Something in Finnian's eyes suggested he was not done fighting this.