The Warrior and the Princess (on hold)

Chapter 13

Caleth had always disliked riding dragons. The height and chaos had never appealed to him. But when he was with Alina, everything changed. The experience transformed into something he actually looked forward to.

Holding her in his arms for hours on end felt different—enjoyable, even. He inhaled the sweet scent of her hair, a mix of wildflowers and something distinctly her own. When he brushed his lips against her neck and felt her shiver, it stirred something deep within him. Her responsiveness enthralled him, and the way she leaned into him only heightened his desire to be closer.

He had to have her. It had to be today. As soon as they landed. Any delay would drive him out of his mind.

But when they arrived in Ashyra, a guard was waiting to inform him that the King demanded his presence immediately. The poor guard had no idea why the General was so furious, nor did he see the sword coming until it embedded itself in the tree just an inch above his head.

With a dark grumble, Caleth told Alina to wait in his chamber and made her promise not to go anywhere until he returned.

Another guard escorted Alina to Caleth's chambers. As she stepped inside, she paused to take in the vastness of the room—a space Caleth had referred to as modest. The walls were decorated with rich tapestries, and the furniture, crafted from dark wood, added a sense of elegance to the space.

She wandered over to the window, her gaze sweeping across the lush garden outside. The sight was breathtaking. Flowers in vibrant colors danced in the breeze, and the greenery seemed almost otherworldly. Coming from Bahian, where nothing could grow, the vibrancy of this garden felt surreal to her.

The beauty of the garden stood in stark contrast to the arid landscapes she was used to. Here, life thrived in every corner, a reminder of what she had long been missing. Alina felt a mix of wonder and longing as she observed the carefully cultivated paths and the occasional flutter of a butterfly. This was a place filled with life, and for a moment, it made her heart ache for the home she had left behind.

Alina had just stepped out of the washroom, freshly cleaned and dressed, when someone appeared at the door.

"My lady," the person bowed. "I am Siella, the General's maid. May I assist you with anything?"

Alina smiled, recognizing her from Caleth's descriptions. "I'm fine, thank you. I don't need anything."

"Would you like something to eat?" Siella asked.

Alina shook her head. "Maybe later, when Caleth comes."

Siella hesitated, fidgeting awkwardly by the door. "Then I shall leave you for now, my lady. I will be just outside if you need me."

She turned to leave, but before closing the door, she spoke again, her voice so soft that Alina barely caught it. "The General is an incredible man, my lady. I hope you know how fortunate you are."

The comment caught Alina off guard. She studied the maid's expression, wondering if her suspicion was correct—that Siella might adore Caleth more than she should.

"You've served Caleth for a long time, Siella?" Alina asked, her tone light but probing.

"Only about a year, my lady."

"Does he have other maids besides you?"

"No, my lady. The General doesn't like having too many servants. He insisted on having only one."

"I see." Alina nodded thoughtfully, confirming her suspicions. "Has he been good to you?" she inquired, wanting to be sure.

"Very good, my lady. The General is always kind to me."