Chapter 21

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Everly~

That night I barely slept and the sleep that I was able to find was fitful and restless. My eyes refused to stay closed for a second longer and I arose before the sun. It was a happy accident that I thanked the Gods for because the courtyard was empty and tranquil.

I was told that most of the nymphs would sleep until mid morning, but what else were they supposed to do? Lounging on display in the courtyard was their main responsibility, one that I found unbearable.

Wandering into the house, I helped myself to a bowl of fresh fruit, taking an apple with me as I sauntered into the portion of the courtyard that overlooked the training arenas.

Several warriors were scattered around the arena, gathering weapons and readying their large bodies for combat.

I settled myself against a wall and watched the early morning sun peak over the arena, letting it warm my skin and energize my body. Soaking in the power it provided, I concealed it within my cells, but basked in the sensation.

It was peaceful and quiet which was a nice change from the chaos and fear I had experienced the previous day.

I need to wake up at this time every morning.

As the warriors started to duel and train, I enjoyed my apple and decided to do a little training of my own. Using subtle, undetectable motions of my fingers and head, I practiced seizing their muscles at random, smiling at their confusion as they surveyed their own limbs. Their strong legs would give out at the knees or stop short when they were sprinting, causing them to tumble to ground without reason.

I'd loosen their grip on their weapons and giggle to myself when their swords and spears would drop to the ground without their consent. It was entertaining to say the least and gave me valuable practice that might come in handy.

"Having fun?" A familiar voice purred.

My body jolted forward and my eyes went wide at the sound of Kaes' voice.

Had I been so lost in my own selfish joy that I'd left my mind vulnerable? I internally tightened my mental locks only to find Kaes sitting beside me as if he'd appeared from thin air.

Feeling a mixture of relief and irritation, I thanked the Gods that he wasn't able to breach my mind, but wasn't exactly happy to be in his presence either.

"I'm just enjoying my breakfast." I said flatly, allowing my body to lean against the wall once again.

"A breakfast that you conjured yourself no doubt." He teased, knowing it wasn't true.

"I don't enjoy being played with."

"Oh, but it's so much fun." I didn't even have to look at Kaes to know that he was smiling.

"Why are you here?" My question was lifeless and cold.

Letting out a casual sigh, Kaes relaxed his large body against the wall beside me before he answered.

"Bored I suppose." He drawled. "While I can wander in and out of every mind in Thoracia, I have to actually ask what you're thinking, which is a nuisance."

"Unfortunately my mind will continue to be a mystery to you."

Kaes' smile grew wider and he turned his head to face me, still resting it against the wall.

"You've gotten much better at locking me out." He hummed.

I knew it.

Whirling on him, I pinned him beneath a hateful glare, letting him know that I didn't not approve of his trespassing.

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