Domain of Power-The Dreamer (Book 3)

Chapter 17: Revelations

"Alexander."

The words left my mouth the moment the flame illuminated his face. I let the others pass ahead of me into the clearing where we first found the pool.

"He is with Troy," Priscilla assured the group. Titus stopped for a moment to stare at him from head to toe before muttering something under his breath. As soon as I entered the clearing, his stern gaze shifted to me.

"So, Troy, what is the real reason you dragged Priscilla to the middle of nowhere?"

I looked at Priscilla, who stood cowering at his side. "To watch the fireflies."

He half-laughed before turning to Priscilla. "Is there anything else you would like to add to that story?"

My breathing intensified as I glanced at Priscilla, who shook her head. I mirrored her gesture.

"Good! Because I had this crazy thought you were plotting to take her virginity before I could!"

Priscilla shook her head, more forceful this time. "You have it all wrong."

Titus glared at me. "Then enlighten me."

"Priscilla is speaking the truth. You should believe her."

Titus bit his lip before wrapping his arm tighter around her torso. "I do," he said in a strained voice. He turned towards her. "I think we should get going before people start talking."

I could hardly bear to look at them. I wanted nothing more than to disappear into the night.

***

On the way back to the chariot, Alexander apologized for coming so late. According to him, he forgot to bring olive oil to light the lamp, so he had to travel back to Cyrene to buy a jar of oil with the money I left for him. Alexander should have been better prepared for this trip. He knew the fireflies would come out at twilight. He did not even bring the stupid jars for the fireflies. The last thing I wanted to hear was more excuses from his mouth. But I was too tired to argue with him on the ride home. Right now, I just wanted to go home.

I was relieved when we finally arrived home, where the only noise was the chirping crickets. I shuffled into the atrium, hoping to make it to my bedroom without disturbing anyone. The last thing I needed was more questions—

"Troy?"

I whipped my neck around to find Apollus' face glowing from his lamp.

A yawn escaped his lips, threatening to extinguish the small flame. "What brings you home at such a late hour, Troy?"

So much for going undetected! Ignoring him, I paced around the glistening pool. I started toward the corridor that connected to the bedrooms when he blocked me.

"Where did you go, Troy?" he whispered.

I rolled my eyes. "Since when did you become my guardian?"

"According to Father, I was always your guardian," he countered. "And as your older brother, I do have the right to look after the welfare of my little brother."

"So now you pretend to care about my welfare?" I hissed. I skirted past him, only for him to grab my left arm.

"I know I have not been the best brother." You have that part correct! "But," he continued, "We were concerned about you. Father even sent the sentinels looking for you. You had everyone worried. So, you better have a good reason why you chose to come strolling well past midnight!"

"That does not concern you, Apollus."

"It does when you are made to be your brother's keeper!"

I shook my head. "What are you even talking about?"