Page 68 of In the Embrace of Dragons

I let out an indignant huff. “He’s only after sex.”

“Well, of course he wants sex. He did the scent gland thing, right? And now he actually likes you and clearly thinks you’re hot. You’re his wife, might I add, and he seems to be taking that seriously. Why wouldn’t he want to also do the deed?”

I hadn’t considered that. I’ve always believed that we are animals, ultimately, and have animal urges like any other. Of course we want to be intimate with those we like, those we find attractive, those who we’ve already had unforgettable sex with before?—

“I believe Ari is right.” We both turn when Zephala speaks for the first time. “It could even be healing, Your Majesty. It could be just what the two of you need to truly reconnect.”

Ari slaps the table. “I like how you think, new handmaiden.”

I glare at both of them, feeling outvoted. I decide I don’t want to talk about it anymore and change the subject to Ari’s journey.

That night, it’s a marvel unlike any other to hug my best friend and say goodnight to her as she climbs into her new, fluffy bed. I pick up Daina and carry her back to my quarters with Zephala at my side, mulling over what I should do.

Chapter Twenty-Five

VIZARIOS

Iam rather pleased to see Ari and Nissia walk away together chattering, their heads already leaned in toward one another so they can speak without being heard. I could see right away the recognition, the reuniting of people who have known each other forever. It made me wonder who I’d be without Ragnakor at my side.

I’m swiftly forgotten as my wife and her friend depart. A heavy hand lands on my shoulder and squeezes, and I already know it’s Ragnakor.

“I think this was a wise choice,” he says unprompted. “Someone that can remind her of where she comes from and bring balance.”

I’m surprised to hear he has so many opinions about my decision.

“It was thoughtful.” He says this more quietly as he releases my shoulder. “I imagine the queen will not want to spar tonight.”

I chuckle. “No, I don’t think so.”

“You look envious,” Ragnakor says. “Because now you’ve realized you’ll have to share her.”

I wince at the barb of truth in his words. I did not anticipate that consequence, no. But ultimately it will be better for all of us if Nissia has companionship.

“Then share her I will,” I say.

He nods in agreement.

The following morning,the queen does not come and meet with Syzari. Ragnakor passes me word from Quillion that Nissia has decided to go on a ride with Ari to show her around.

“That’s all right,” Syzari says, though she seems a bit put out. “We really have made all the plans we can for now, at least until you approve our communications to the wardens.”

We are asking them to offer accommodations and incentives to human workers. Many will resist the idea, and some will probably call me an idiot behind closed doors. But those like Kalara may be open to our plan if it means more bodies to work. Everyone needs wood and stone and iron for trade.

I read through all the letters Syzari has put in front of me, though my mind is wandering as I scan the words. I wonder what Nissia is doing now, and when I might see her again. Will she eat dinner with me tonight, seeing as she missed breakfast?

Finally, I set down the missives and get to my feet instead, heading to the door.

“Your Majesty?” Syzari asks.

“My apologies, I’ll have to work on it more tomorrow.”

With that, I step out, where Ragnakor is waiting.

“Do you think we might be able to catch up to them?” I ask.

“Pardon me?” He follows as I head back to my rooms, where I’ll change into my better riding clothes.

“The queen and her friend. How far do you think they’ve gone?”