Page 108 of King's Warrior

Rufe threw an arm around Niam’s shoulders and pretended not to see the tears when the boys rode away, glancing back over their shoulders until they were out of sight.

Chapter Forty-three

The rest of the journey passed relatively uneventfully, save for a detour around a rock fall and an unexpected snow that forced them to shelter in a cave for two days. Thank the gods, Willem didn’t constantly complain like Zanial had.

An image reappeared in Niam’s mind: Uri pulling Rufe’s arm over his chest. Warmth grew in Niam’s own chest at seeing two of the most important people in his life bonding, Uri obviously trusting Rufe.

As did Niam.

When at last he spotted Dellamar Castle in the distance, perched near the top of one of the lower mountains, his heart stuttered for all he’d face: Whreyn and his conniving cohorts, ensuring the Fjell family maintained the crown, introducing Rufe as king consort, and perhaps the part he most feared—telling his mother she’d missed his wedding.

Vihaan, Casseign, and two other soldiers took charge of the mules at sunset while Niam, Rufe, and Draylon accessed the tunnels to enter the castle.

As Draylon and Rufe insisted on being his guard, Niam held a lantern aloft, providing light while walking between the twowarriors, leaving space enough to wield swords if needed. Where would he find Mother tonight? Likely in her sewing room, anticipating his arrival.

He paused at the entrance, listening for unfamiliar voices. The strains of an old lullaby reached his ears. Rufe and Draylon failed in hiding winces. Niam gave them an apologetic smile. “Mother singing off-key keeps others at bay and lets me know she’s alone. She’s actually a wonderful singer when she wants to be.”

Rufe grabbed his arm when Niam reached for the door. “Let Draylon and me go first to ensure it's safe.”

Niam nodded and stepped aside. Rufe readied his dagger and pushed open the door.

Crash!

Rufe jumped back behind the safety of the door.

“Come any closer, and I’ll gut you!” Nera roared.

Niam gently urged Rufe to the side with a hand to the small of his back. “Mother, it’s me. I’ll take it personally if you gut my consort.” He took a deep breath and emerged.

Mother stood in the center of the room, mouth hanging open, shards from a smashed vase lying on the floor. “Consort?”

Rufe stepped into the room, a sheepish smile on his face. “Greetings, Your Majesty.”

She stood still for so long Niam worried she’d collapse, but she wasn’t one given to fainting. Finally, she launched herself into Niam’s arms, whirled, and then caught Rufe in a three-way hug. “You found your Cormiran mate.” Mother stepped back, worrywrinkling her brows. “I thought you were going to marry a Cormiran noble.”

Niam laughed, more from stress than mirth. “It’s a long story, but Rufe is now heir to a dukedom. Now, tell me. What’s been happening here?”

Mother crossed her arms over her chest. “Where are the boys? Are they safe?”

“Yes. I’ve sent them to Yarif in Renvalle.”

Mother shifted a suspicious glance to Draylon. “Not to be inhospitable, but why are you here?”

Draylon sheathed his sword and bowed as much as his armor allowed. “Queen Nera, I am at your disposal, representing my brother, the emperor.”

“Well, then, let’s get you settled. You all smell like you’ve been on the road for a ten-day journey or longer.” She wrinkled her nose at Rufe and Draylon. “You two can take off the armor. You’ll not need it here. I barred my door securely and chose the soldiers to stand guard. No one will interrupt us.”

“There’s a reason for the smell, Mother,” Niam said, relief washing away his trepidation, leaving him weary. He dropped into a chair he knew wasn’t her favorite. “Wehavebeen on the road for a ten-day. Longer, actually.”

Draylon and Rufe assisted each other in removing armor in practiced motions, showing this wasn’t the first time they helped each other undress. Niam pushed back a spike of jealousy.

Once they’d stripped to tunic and trousers, Draylon and Rufe sat side by side on the settee. Niam nearly groaned. He should’vetaken the settee instead of a chair so he could sit with his consort. So much to learn about being bonded again. To change now would make his discomfort known.

Instead, he said, “Tell us all that’s happened.”

His mother shuffled to a sideboard, returning with a tray bearing four glasses.

Niam took a whiff of his and coughed. “Really, Mother?”

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