A Throne of Death & Dreams

Chapter 7

Gradually waking from a deep slumber, I found myself in my own bed. It was strange, as I couldn't recall leaving the library the previous night. With no nightmares? Questioning myself.

As I rubbed the sleep from my eyes and tried to piece together what had happened, I realized that it was impossible for anyone to enter my room without me knowing. Yet here I was, somehow back in my bedroom with no memory of how I got here.

I glanced at the clock and saw that it was 9 o'clock in the morning - a rarity for me to sleep in this late. Hastily throwing on my gray robe, I made my way out of the room and into the dressing room, only to find it empty.

Puzzled, I wandered down the hallway, searching for any sign of life. It seemed odd that no one was around - normally Eden or Luna would have been there to help me get ready for the day.

As I continued down the hall, I eventually reached the drawing room where everyone sat laughing and chatting. Theo was seated in a corner, silently observing his brothers and my ladies and Celeste.

I noticed that Celeste had stayed over with Drogo last night, but their lack of scent suggested they had gone their separate ways by morning. As she caught sight of me standing in the doorway, she coolly remarked, "Well well, if it isn't my dear sister Iris finally deciding to join us."

A scowl tugged at the corners of my mouth, my eyes narrowing in annoyance as I glared at Eden. Unconsciously, I had been twiddling with my fingers, betraying my nerves. But before I could dwell on it, she had gotten up and brought me a cup of steaming coffee from the center of the table.

I replied with a grateful "thank you," trying to hide any signs of nervousness in my voice.

Ever since I entered the room, Theo's gaze had been fixed on me. It made me uncomfortable, especially since I had just woken up ten minutes ago. My hair was disheveled and a sheet was draped over my naked body. Sitting here in front of these men, I felt exposed and vulnerable.

My face flushed red as I suddenly became aware of my state and I quickly stood up to excuse myself and get dressed in something more appropriate.

But before I could leave, Theo's voice cut through the air, his words reassuring me that it was okay to be seen like this in my own home. His deep brown eyes seemed to understand and accept me, making me feel more at ease.

I couldn't help but stare back at him, lost in his gaze. The rest of the room faded away as we were immersed in our own silent conversation that felt like a lifetime despite only lasting 30 seconds.

When I finally broke eye contact, I noticed Celeste watching us with an amused smirk on her face. It was clear that she had witnessed the interaction and found it entertaining.

I settled back into my seat, surrounded by my siblings and loyal attendants. The atmosphere was peaceful and harmonious as we chatted and caught up on each other's lives. However, the tranquility was quickly interrupted when Theo abruptly stood up.

"Do you have any training grounds or a workout room available for us during our stay?" he asked while fake coughing to break the silence in the room.

I responded with a calm tone, "Yes, Violet, would you please lead your brothers to the training room located at the bottom of the castle?"

Violet appeared annoyed at being tasked with such a menial job but acquiesced with a curt nod.

The two other brothers rose from their seats and Theo gratefully nodded his head before following Violet out of the room.

Eden and Celeste stayed behind with me.

As I attempted to discreetly make my exit, Celeste caught hold of my arm. Her voice took on a sharp edge as she hissed, "Sit down, sister. It seems we have much to discuss."