Book 2 of: Whispers Of Desires.
In the kingdoms of Niameda, Althea, and Ivamis, trade ships are mysteriously vanishing without a trace. When Kazi, the General of Niameda, risks her life to save the King of Althea from an assassination attempt, he of...
Kazi slipped out of the king's study, her heart racing in her chest. The weight of her discovery lay heavy on her, both terrifying and exhilarating. She needed to return to the ball and blend into the background before anyone noticed her absence.
As she entered the ballroom, the music and lights enveloped her. The light-heartedness of the scene felt surreal after her serious exploration in the king's study. Before she could find a quiet corner to gather her thoughts, a familiar warmth clasped her arm.
"K, there you are!" Princess Athiel exclaimed with childlike delight. "I was afraid I had lost you." She held onto Kazi's arm possessively, her eyes scanning the room with a hint of suspicion.
Kazi suppressed a groan. Princess Athiel's clingy behaviour was becoming tiresome. "Your Highness," she said in a strained voice, "is everything alright?"
The princess inclined her head, her eyes wide and innocent. "Certainly, K! Why would not it be? I just want to spend the entire evening with my closest friend."
Internally, Kazi rolled her eyes. 'Closest friend' indeed. More like her overprotective shadow.
Suddenly, a new group of women entered the ballroom, their laughter resonating through the room. Tall and muscular, dressed in shimmering gowns that emphasized their powerful builds, they were unmistakable – princesses from the Werewolf Territory of Lupimor.
Princess Athiel, never one to miss an opportunity to assert dominance, scoffed loudly. "Look who decided to grace us with their presence," she muttered under her breath.
Kazi, however, found herself mildly intrigued. The Lupimor princesses exuded an aura of confidence and strength that was a refreshing change from the simpering courtiers that usually surrounded the royal family. Ignoring Princess Athiel, she stepped forward with a polite smile.
"Hello, Princesses," Kazi greeted the Lupimor group. "Is there anything I can help you with?"
The lead princess, a woman with vibrant red hair and intense green eyes, smiled, showing her sharp canines. "Actually, K," she said in a playful tone, "we were wondering if you could do us a small favour."
Princess Athiel became defensive, feeling jealous. "K is not at your beck and call to run errands for you!" she retorted.
Kazi silenced the princess with a look before turning back to the Lupimor group. "Please, Princess, go on," she encouraged.
The redheaded princess winked. "As you know, Prince Azrael is quite the catch. Unfortunately, none of us have had the chance for a proper introduction. We were hoping for you, being such a close friend of his," she added, casting a meaningful glance at Princess Athiel, "could speak highly of us."
Kazi experienced a strange pang in her chest. She should have felt relieved at the idea of Azrael being pursued by strong, capable women. Instead, she felt a flicker of jealousy. No, that couldn't be right. She was Kazi, a loyal soldier with a mission. She shouldn't have any feelings for the arrogant prince.
Before she could respond, Princess Athiel barged in. "Leave it to me, princesses," she declared with faux sweetness. "I will speak with Azrael right away. I am sure he would be delighted to meet such distinguished ladies."
Kazi clenched her jaw. Princess Athiel's transparent attempt to sabotage any potential connection between the Lupimor princesses and Azrael was infuriating. Just as she was about to intervene, Athiel turned to her, a sly smile playing on her lips.
"You are such a wonderful friend, K," she purred. "I am so lucky to have you by my side. Perhaps even more than just a friend?"
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