Cursed By Fate

32

Chapter 36

After a tense encounter with the rogue beast, Ryker and Aria finally decided to return to the palace. The sun had begun to set, casting long shadows through the trees as they mounted their beasts, their hearts still racing from the thrill of the confrontation.

As they made their way back, Aria couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie with Ryker. The way he had fought fiercely, using his lightning to strike down the beast, had impressed her. It reminded her of just how powerful he truly was, and how much she admired him.

“Nice work back there,” she said, glancing over at him as they rode side by side. “You really showed that creature who’s boss.”

“Just doing what needed to be done,” he replied, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips. “But you held your own, too. Your beast is strong.”

“It’s just a little jealous, I think,” she teased, nodding at her mount, which fluttered its feathers possessively.

Ryker chuckled. “It should be. Mine could easily take yours down in a heartbeat.” He smirked, his electric-yellow eyes glinting mischievously. “Maybe you should keep it in check, or I might just decide you’d be better off with a different mount.”

“Ha! As if I’d let you take my chick away,” Aria shot back, her competitive spirit flaring up. “We make a good team, and you know it.”

“Sure, but one day you might have to decide between me and your beast,” he said, his tone shifting to something more serious, teasing yet sincere.

“Do you think I’d choose a prince over my mount?” she quipped back, raising an eyebrow.

“Who knows? Being my bride comes with a lot of danger,” Ryker replied, his voice low, a teasing smirk dancing on his lips.

Aria shot him a glare, her heart racing at the mention of being his bride. “I’m not interested in that kind of life, Ryker,” she said firmly, though a part of her was curious about what it would be like.

“Just teasing, Aria,” he said, his expression softening. “But in all seriousness, it’s important for me to protect you. This world can be unforgiving.”

“I can take care of myself,” she replied, her voice steady. “I have you to watch my back, remember?”

“Always,” he said, and for a moment, the air between them felt charged, as if the teasing had given way to something deeper.

As they approached the palace gates, Aria felt a mixture of relief and reluctance. The comfort of the palace felt safe, but part of her wanted to remain in the thrill of the adventure they had just shared.

Once inside, they dismounted, and Aria’s mount turned back into the little chick, fluttering around her feet. She laughed, scooping it up into her arms.

“See? I told you it was jealous,” she said, playfully nuzzling the chick.

“Just wait until it grows up,” Ryker teased, ruffling the chick’s feathers. “Then we’ll see who’s jealous.”

As they walked back toward the main hall, Aria felt Ryker’s presence beside her, and she couldn’t shake the feeling that their bond was growing stronger. Whatever dangers lay ahead, she knew they would face them together.

---

Here’s the continuation based on your prompts:

---

As  Ryker returned to the palace, the majestic structure loomed before them, bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun. The grand hall awaited, a testament to the kingdom's opulence, with its towering pillars and intricate tapestries telling stories of valor and beauty.