Shalace - A World of Fae

Embry is Enlightened

Chapter 22

(Embry is enlightened)

Aidan stood out on his balcony overlooking a lake. He sipped his tea and let his mind drift to Soren’s daughter. Callista had openly loved the sword he’d given her. He’d never seen any woman so appreciative of the gift of a sword. He smiled and shook his head. His bride was truly unique.

Hearing a knock he sighed. He considered ignoring it but decided best not to. “Come in,” He called reluctantly.

“Enjoying some quite before the competition begins?” Soren said entering the balcony.

“Always good to begin with a clear head,” The Goblin King commented. “What brings you to me this morning?”

“I understand why you want to keep your betrothal to Callista quiet but that might not be for the best,” Soren warned. Aidan looked at him with interest. “Her hand is being sought by others.”

Aidan sighed and looked away. This was not what he wanted to hear. He couldn’t exactly say he was surprised though. Callista was beautiful and had attracted even more attention after winning the competition yesterday. “Announce it tonight then but give her warning.”

Soren nodded. “I’ll tell her after she competes. I don’t want her distracted.” Aidan simply nodded.

Aidan waited until the King of Dark Elves was gone and then called his captain. ‘Chale.’ A moment later the door opened and his captain joined him on the balcony.

“Your Majesty,” He said and bowed.

“The betrothal will be announced tonight along with that of Moryn and Amara,” The Goblin King informed the Fae. Chale looked at him more than a little surprised. “Too much interest is mounting toward Callista.”

“Soren has been asked for her hand,” Chale summarized. “Not that I can say I’m surprised. Your bride is beautiful and did very well yesterday.”

“I’d hoped to be closer to her before this happened but so be it,” Aidan said sounding disappointed. “As Victor said, I have our lives to win the girl’s heart.”

“Will she be told before the announcement?” Chale inquired.

“Yes. I told Soren to give her warning.” The Goblin King became quiet for a moment and then said, “I want someone near when he tells her. I want to know her reaction of the news without it being softened. If she screams I want to know.”

“As you wish,” Chale replied.

“You may go.” Chale bowed and left his sovereign alone.

Aidan finished his tea and poured himself another cup. Today could prove to be very interesting. Callista and Embry would see each other for the first time since she’d gone with the dark elves. Moryn and Embry would face off once again. The Goblin King found most of his thoughts to be amusing. He knew Moryn and his brothers would hate seeing their sister near Embry again.

Hearing a knock the Goblin King rolled his eyes. How many people could possibly need to see him before the competitions began. “Enter,” He called. Aidan turned and was glad he had already schooled his face. Standing just inside his door was Embry.

“Do you have a few minutes?” Embry asked calmly.

Aidan walked over to a table in his room. “Join me,” He said and sat down. The door closed and the two men took seats at the table.

“How is Callista?” Embry asked.

“She was very uneasy last night,” Aidan informed him.

“Why? What happened?” Embry said becoming concerned.