Knightqueen - Page 78

He’d also bedded the queen. Put his hands on her slim, beautiful body.

Claimed her as his.

What would they think of that?

He cleared his throat. “The Gek’Dragar are coming. For our queen, for all of us. Double patrols around the castle. I want security increased.”

“It’s true they have a deadly weapon?” another guard asked.

“It is. Everyone must remain on high alert.”

His people nodded and leaped into action. Several peppered him with questions. He answered, watching as they hurried off to do their jobs. They were good people. Dedicated and honorable.

“Knightguard Sten?”

A young knightguard, fresh out of the Academy, stood in front of him.

“I just wanted to say it’s an honor to serve with a man like you.” The man bowed and left.

Sten stared after him. He’d known they were all dedicated to the knightqueen, and to Oronis. He just hadn’t realized how dedicated they were to him as well.

His hands balled into fists. They had to stop the Blue Death from reaching Oron. Whatever it took.

He strode to the windows, staring out over the city. Night was starting to fall, and he thought this was the prettiest time in Aravena. When the lights of the buildings all started to glitter. It looked like the night sky reflected on the land.

Ashtin appeared at his side. “How are you doing? It must be a little jarring to be back on Oron after everything you’ve been through.”

Sten nodded. “I’m glad we’re back. And that Carys is safe.”

“It had to be rough.”

“It was. But it’s rougher for the people that the Gek’Dragar have subjugated. They ruined Ti-Lore.” He shook his head. “The Gek’Dragar have to be stopped, Ashtin. It’s not enough to just win one battle. We need to end this. I won’t let them come near Carys again.” His tone was low and fierce.

Ashtin stared at him.

Sten scowled. “What?”

“You’re in love with her.”

Sten froze.

“Having just recently fallen in love myself, I recognize it now. And I suspect you’ve loved her for a long time.”

Sten felt an itchy, uncomfortable feeling wash over him. “She’s our queen. I’m her knightguard.”

“But she’s not just the queen to you.”

Sten’s jaw tightened. “Ashtin—”

“I think you’re good for her. Steady and loyal.”

Sten blinked. “What?”

“She lost everything when she was young. She’s strong, but everyone needs a solid foundation, something to hold them steady.”

Heart pounding, Sten scoffed. “She’s elegant and refined. Beautiful and smart. I’m just a battle-hardened guard who grew up on a farm.”

“So?”