Crown of Shadows

Chapter 9-Nicholas

I followed Ryder through the dense woods, the foliage casting shifting shadows over the forest floor. I kept a vigilant eye on our surroundings, alert for any signs of danger.

After what felt like hours of trekking, we emerged from the trees and into a clearing. Before us stood a formidable structure, its imposing silhouette cutting a stark contrast against the backdrop of the forest. I squinted against the sunlight, taking in the sight of the stronghold for the first time.

As we approached the stronghold, we were met by several figures clad in dark clothing, their movements fluid and purposeful. One of them, a stern-looking man with piercing eyes, stepped forward, blocking our path.

"Who are you, and what business do you have here?" the man demanded, his voice brooking no argument.

Ryder stepped forward, his posture tense but composed. "We're looking for someone," he replied evenly. "A woman named Aelin."

The man regarded us with a hint of suspicion before nodding curtly. "Wait here," he instructed, before disappearing into the depths of the stronghold.

Minutes passed before he returned, accompanied by another figure who exuded an air of authority. This man, whom I assumed to be the leader of this place, was tall and imposing, he had long red hair and had a commanding presence that demanded respect.

"What brings you here?" the man asked, his voice firm.

"We're looking for Aelin," I replied, my tone determined. "We need to speak with her."

The man regarded us with a steely gaze, assessing our intentions. "Aelin is not here," he stated matter-of-factly. "She's currently on a mission."

Ryder's eyes narrowed at the man's response, his suspicions clearly piqued. "Can we speak with her when she returns?" he pressed, his tone betraying a hint of urgency.

The man's expression hardened, and a glint of hostility flickered in his eyes. "I'm afraid that won't be possible," he replied, his voice taking on a steely edge. "I suggest you leave now."

I bristled at the man's dismissive tone, my resolve hardening. "We're not leaving until we see her," I declared, my voice unwavering.

The man's features darkened, and for a moment, I thought I saw a flash of something dangerous in his eyes. "I suggest you reconsider," he warned, his voice low and menacing. "Leave now. Or I will but holes through your body."

Ryder exchanged a meaningful glance with me before reluctantly nodding. "We'll go for now," he conceded, his tone reluctant but resigned.

As we turned to leave, I couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled over me. Something about that guy didn't sit right with me.

As we retreated back into the shelter of the woods, London's voice broke the tense silence that hung between us. "What are we going to do now?" she asked, her tone tinged with concern.

I glanced back at the stronghold, a frown creasing my brow. "She'll be fine," I replied, my voice tinged with uncertainty. "But it's best if we don't go back there. We'd only be risking our lives."

Ryder nodded in agreement, his expression grim. "He's right," he affirmed, his voice somber. "We can't afford to provoke them any further."

London cast a wary glance back at the stronghold before turning to face Ryder. "Where do we go from here?" she asked, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

Ryder's features softened, a reassuring smile gracing his lips. "You can stay with me," he offered, his tone warm and welcoming. "I have a place over at the Star Realm. It's not much, but it's safe – and it's far away from here."

Relief washed over me at Ryder's offer. With a nod of agreement, I fell into step beside London as we followed Ryder deeper into the woods.

I just hope that I'm right that Aelin will be fine. There was something about that man I didn't like and I fear he will try to hurt her.