Chapter 117: Painful
Ezekiel gazed down at Tarah, her peaceful slumber bringing a soft smile to his lips. "Was she this sleepy?" he murmured with a pout, marveling at how quickly she had drifted off once she nestled into his arms.
Recalling their earlier conversation, he whispered, "You worry too much." He understood Tarah’s concerns. Her visions offered guidance, but nothing was set in stone; the future remained uncertain, subject to change, as change was the only constant in their world.
That understanding led Ezekiel to grant Tarah the freedom to choose her own path when she ascended. While part of his decision stemmed from the realization that she fit the criteria of the woman he should be wary of, the primary reason was his belief that it was unjust for their kingdom’s Seer to be bound by destiny to serve the kingdom’s interests.
Despite Seer Beirut’s reluctance to acknowledge it, Ezekiel couldn’t help but notice the envy in his eyes when he looked upon peers who had built families, perpetuating their lineages. It was a reminder of the sacrifices inherent in Tarah’s role, and Ezekiel was determined to ensure she had the opportunity to chart her own course in life.
"But first, I must free you from the demonic spell you’re bound to," Ezekiel murmured softly as he placed a gentle kiss on Tarah’s head. Closing his eyes, he felt a sudden surge of immense power coursing through his body. "It’s complete," he whispered, the merging of the dragon’s spirit within him now finalized.
[You! How dare you snatch my power!] Vulcan’s soul roared within him, its voice echoing inside Ezekiel’s mind. It wasn’t the first time Vulcan’s soul had managed to assert itself since the merging began, but Ezekiel found it easy to silence the dragon’s protests whenever they arose.
With a contented sigh, Ezekiel nestled closer to Tarah, burying his nose in her hair and inhaling her intoxicating scent. Lost in the comfort of her presence, he soon drifted off into a peaceful slumber, the challenges of the days ahead momentarily forgotten in the warmth of her embrace.
***
Tarah stirred in her bed, feeling a weight on her waist. Slowly, she opened her eyes and she was greeted by the sight of Ezekiel’s peaceful sleeping face with his arms wrapped around her. A soft smile graced her lips as she took in his perfect features.