Chapter 164: Apostle of the Descent
The following morning, the city was ablaze with excitement. Nobles, servants, and guards buzzed with news concerning the upcoming expedition to the gates, complete with gossip about the arbiter, the arrival of a neighboring kingdom’s army, and the incident at the banquet. As I followed Soltair and Trithe through the halls of the castle, I could feel their eyes lingering on my tail and horns, condemning my bloodline. More than a few muttered slurs and curses just loud enough for me to hear.
Soltair’s off-handed remark as I fled the hall returned to me again and again. Things hadn’t changed. Despite all the hardships I faced, and all the progress I felt I made, I had responded in the same way and fled the banquet. It was fortunate, in a sense, as it orchestrated my conversation with the Arbiter, but I still felt disappointed in myself. I got caught up in the moment and fell back to my old vulnerabilities.
With a deep breath, I decided that would never happen again. No matter the circumstance, I would maintain my composure and dignity. I wouldn’t give my enemies the pleasure of my fear.
No sooner had the determination settled into my mind than my stomach growled. Soltair and Trithe glanced back, the latter raising an eyebrow, and I blushed.
Soltair shook his head and chuckled. "I guess skipping dinner caught up to you. Shall we grab some breakfast?"
A spike of unease shot through me. As we’d prepared for the day, attending servants mentioned the servant kitchens beneath the castle. Although it seemed like regular conversation between them, I was certain I was meant to overhear, and could only imagine what might happen if I ignored them and showed up where the nobility ate.
Despite my newfound sense of purpose, I had no intention to test my resolve by seeking humiliation. "You go ahead. I’ll slip by the kitchen and meet you afterward."
He frowned, opening his mouth to protest, but stopped as a smile spread across his face. "Alright then. Let’s go, Trithe, just the two of us."
He linked his arm through Trithe, pulling her close. They shared an intimate smile, and by the time they turned to walk down the hall, I knew I was already forgotten. I shook my head wryly, idly caressing my horn. He certainly wouldn’t have any problems moving on once I was gone.