Chapter 149: Demons And Their Services
>>Aelin
The council meeting was dragging.
I tried not to fidget in my seat, but I could feel the weight of time ticking in my bones. It wasn’t that the discussion wasn’t important — it was. We were deciding the distribution of firewardens to the southern border, and everyone had an opinion. But I had somewhere else to be, and every tick of the sun-dial outside the council room made me itch.
I glanced sideways at Ariston, who stood at ease beside me, his arms crossed behind his back as usual. He seemed unbothered by the delay, but I could feel the slight tension in his stance. He was waiting, just as I was. I shifted subtly and tapped the edge of the table with my finger.
Finally, Draegon gave the signal to wrap up, his voice steady, deep, commanding. "We’ll review the final distribution plan tomorrow. Dismissed."
I nearly bolted up from my seat.
Ariston and I moved in sync, heading for the large doors of the war room. Our steps were purposeful — maybe a bit too purposeful — because we didn’t even reach halfway across the floor before someone called after us.
"Your Highness," Vesper’s voice rang, sweet and teasing. "Where are you both going in such a rush? Don’t tell me we’re missing another secret strategy meeting?"
I turned, already preparing something neutral and boring. But then I saw Drakkar’s gaze sharpen slightly beside her, his golden eyes narrowing — not suspicious yet, but curious. His attention had shifted to Ariston and me in that moment.
I smiled, keeping my tone casual. "I have an appointment."
Vesper tilted her head. "An appointment?" she repeated, curiosity blooming on her face. "I see?"
I turned to Ariston, voice low, a faint smirk playing on my lips — masking the internal chaos currently rampaging in my stomach. "You’re still comfortable with this, right?"