Page 52 of The Dark Lord's Guide to Dating

“It didn’t require your permission,” I said, voice dangerously smooth. “Unless you’d rather the bandits continue making a hobby of murdering villagers.”

Morana’s attention flicked to the townsfolk behind me, then back. “We can discuss this privately.”

I cast a final glance at the elder. “Gather your people. Distribute the bandits’ stolen supplies. My men will see to a portion of your needs.” The older man bowed gratefully.

Morana and I headed to the battered village tavern, a creaking building that smelled of stale beer and old grease. Inside, the innkeeper anxiously handed us two mugs of watery swill. I took one sip, nearly gagging on the sour tang.

“It’s been a while since I tasted a brew that makes me appreciate stale swamp water,” I said, pushing the mug away.

Morana glowered. “You’re overstepping, Kazimir. These aremylands.”

“You’re welcome,” I returned evenly, leaning forward. “For saving your people while you were… otherwise occupied.”

Her eyes flashed, but she kept her tone level. “My scouts reported trouble in the north. I had no choice but to pull forces?—”

“Allowing these bandits through your territory, unchallenged, possibly aided by Solandris. Either your intelligence is lacking, or there’s a more sinister game at play.” I shrugged. “Either way, I provided the solution.”

She folded her arms, gaze tight. “And what do you want in return?”

“An addendum to our existing treaty,” I said, unfazed by her scowl. “I’ve just promised these villages my protection. And certain trade.”

Realization flickered across her face, followed by bitter resignation. Agreeing would deepen my hold over Arvoryn. Refusing would expose her as heartless in front of her own subjects. Morana was too cunning not to see the trap snaring tight around her.

“Fine,” she said, voice clipped. “We can discuss the details at my estate. Soon.” Her eyes lingered on mine. “Bring your new wife. Or... come alone, whichever you prefer most.”

Ah. There it was—the real source of her tension. Not just my incursion into her territory, but my recent marital status.

“Lady Blackrose has been occupied,” I replied casually. “But I’ll be sure to pass along the invitation.”

“If I’d known you were in the market for a bride when your men came through last week, I might have negotiated better terms,” she said, bitterness creeping into her tone. “A royal wedding is quite the event to spring on one’s allies without warning.”

I regarded her coolly. “Our arrangement was never meant to be long-term, Morana. You knew that from the start. We had fun testing which of your daggers were properly balanced for throwing at moving targets, but that was never going to end with me down on one knee.”

Her lips pressed into a thin line, but she tried for one last volley. “We had fun. We could again.”

I let out a low laugh. “We both know you’re more interested in power than pleasure. I have a new bride. You have a husband whose best talent is staying out of your way. Let’s not pretend there’s anything more here than political convenience.”

Her gaze hardened. “I see. Well, remember that loyalty can shift. Quickly.”

“So can my mood,” I said softly, letting a sliver of dominion magic snap through the air. The tavern’s rafters groaned ominously.

She relented, turning her attention to the swirling dregs of her mug. “You suspect these raids weren’t random?”

“Someone told those bandits exactly where to strike,” I confirmed. “Gave them gold, knowledge of your troop movements.”

Morana’s anger simmered. “If you’re implying?—”

“I’m implying someone, maybe not you, wants you destabilized. Perhaps they thought you’d be too distracted by your own intrigues to notice.”

Her hand shifted involuntarily to her bandaged arm, still healing from the brawl at my wedding feast. “Your concern is… touching.”

I snorted. “You keep Arvoryn peacefully buffering my domain from Solandris. If you decide to sabotage yourself with foolishness, that’s your choice, but so far you’re more useful alive than dead. I’m sure you’d like to keep it that way.”

She rose, tension vibrating under her skin. “I should return to my men.”

I stood as well, ignoring the watery ale. “I’ll be leaving a small garrison in each village. Consider it me making sure the roads stay safe.”

Her jaw clenched, but she offered no argument. She only paused at the door, leaning in low enough that no one else would overhear. “I’ve heard Solandris troops were spotted near the pass. Not the usual patrols. Something more secretive.”

---