The Tainted Earth (Royals of the Realm Series #3)

Chapter 10

"Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are." - John Wooden

Air Kingdom
White Castle
The Great Hall

Cara's POV

The White Castle's Great Hall was packed with so many people, ranging from noblemen to royals. The only good thing is that no angels came to celebrate with the newlyweds. Maqiel is a control freak, racist and ethnocentric bastard. You wouldn't find him mingling with other immortals, especially half-breeds. If it's up to him, he would put the entire Celestial Kingdom on lockdown. Who knows, maybe he already did.

However, I think Alexander's the opposite. From the moment we arrived and up to now, he seemed unusually quiet. As if he's retreating to his own shell. I don't want to drag him around against his will, besides I'm not familiar with the place and I don't want to seem too eager. Better stick with his pace.

I adjusted the strap of the sleeveless emerald green dress I'm wearing, it's too tight and I think it's leaving marks on my shoulder. I honestly don't know why these girls love it too much. Ugh.

"Are you okay?" Alexander asked, rubbing the sore spot on my shoulder blades. "Does it hurt?"

I saw concern flashing through his eyes. I wanted to lie and say I'm fine but I have a feeling he'll know. "A little," I smiled sheepishly.

He grumbled under his breath about dresses being too tight before exposing his lion claws a little.

"Um, I still want to go home in one piece. In fact, I'd rather you wouldn't touch me with those shiny claws."

"Silly," he chuckled. He looked around. Everyone's busy bragging about royal stuffs. Then he was tearing both straps.

I gasped, "You pervert!" I whisper-yelled.

He laughed softly, "I wasn't undressing you... yet." The mischief dancing in his viridian eyes made me laugh as well. He pulled me closer, replacing the strap with soft and delicate flowers vines. They matched the emerald dress with elegance, plus it's not freakin' tight anymore.

I looked at him with amazement before giving him a thumbs up. The newlyweds chose that time to save us from tearing anymore clothing.

"There you are!" They approached us and we gave them our sincere greetings.

"You were too busy so we decided to wait until you're done mingling with the other guests." I explained.

Artemis smiled gently at us, "Cara, we won't mind if you approach us or join us talking with other groups. This is a celebration and we are the host. You are important to us meaning you belong here."

"We're not exactly looking forward to see other royals - except Alessio and Fyrrah. We're fine and enjoying here." Alex gave them a soft smile.

"You're not," She glared playfully, Heaven just listened attentively to our conversation with a warm smile. "If you like I can show you around, and take you to Fyrrah and Alessio. They're with my brother, Ahba."

"Cool," I said, pulling Alex along as they led us back to where they left the group of our royal friends. They're clearly discussing a very interesting topic since they're all smiles and good vibes. Who wouldn't be when the deadly king is not so deadly anymore? Look at Heaven guarding his queen like a puppy.

"Ahba, I want you to meet some people."

Her brother turned to us with a smile, "Hello there, I'm Ahba," he shook hands with me and Alex. "I'm her brother, the new king of the Witch Kingdom. It's a pleasure to meet you two." He has the same white irises and white complexion. They really look alike.