DEMONS | Nikolai Lantsov

Chapter 17

---Mara's POV---

The moon hung high in the midnight sky as Mara stepped out of the mysterious woman's shop, her mind buzzing with newfound knowledge and a glimmer of hope. The encounter had provided her with valuable insights, but now she needed a place to rest and gather her thoughts. Exhausted from the countless hours spent learning how to release Nikolai from his curse, she made her way through the quiet streets in search of a nearby inn.

The soft glow of lanterns illuminated the cobblestone road, casting dancing shadows along the facades of buildings. Mara's footsteps echoed as she approached a quaint inn with a weathered sign swinging lazily in the night breeze. She pushed open the heavy wooden door and stepped into the warm, inviting ambiance of the establishment.

Behind the worn counter stood a man with a mischievous grin and a twinkle in his eyes. His charm was evident as he greeted Mara with a friendly nod. "Welcome, weary traveler," he said, his voice smooth like velvet. "What brings you to our humble inn at such a late hour?"

Mara returned his smile, feeling a sense of familiarity in the stranger's presence. "I seek a room for the night," she replied, her voice tinged with both weariness and curiosity.

The innkeeper's eyes sparkled with interest as he leaned against the counter. "Ah, a seeker of shelter and secrets, perhaps? We have just the room for you. Cozy, with a view of the moonlit courtyard. It's said that the moon whispers secrets to those who listen."

"Very funny." Mara rolled her eyes.

"Oh, I'm completely serious." He smiled.

"Sure." Mara dipped her head to the left, a curl falling over her cheek softly.

The charismatic innkeeper extended a hand towards Mara. "Allow me to assist you," he offered, his voice carrying an air of genuine hospitality. "The name is Elias, by the way."

"Mara," she introduced herself, shaking his hand with a gentle smile. "Thank you, Elias. Your kindness is refreshing."

Elias handed Mara a key with a flourish. "Enjoy your stay, Mara. Should you require anything, you know where to find me."

Mara made her way up the creaking wooden staircase to her room, the soft glow of flickering candles guiding her. The chamber was cozy, adorned with faded tapestries and a small writing desk bathed in moonlight. She sank onto the edge of the bed, exhaling a sigh of relief.

Lost in her thoughts, Mara wondered if Elias knew more than he let on. His words hinted at a deeper understanding, and his presence exuded an aura of intrigue. She couldn't help but feel a connection, as if he held fragments of the knowledge she sought. Could he tell that she was the Sun Summoner, had he seen her before?

She settled herself into the covers and closed her eyes, pushing her worries away. She began to imagine herself back in the palace, in Nikolai's arms. His strong scent tickling her nose, as she ran her fingers through his hair. The feeling of the bedding in his room, his cool breath against her skin. She hoped that her plan would work, it had to. Ravka needed a king. It needed Nikolai to be king. And Mara needed Nikolai. 

---Genya's POV---

Nikolai lay upon his bed in the grand chamber of the palace, his body wracked with pain as he battled the relentless monster that resided within him. Beads of sweat trickled down his forehead, and his muscles strained against the chains that held him captive. Genya sat beside him; her eyes filled with concern.