Page 104 of Within the Veil

Well, who the fuck wants Brussel sprouts instead of chocolate chip cookies? Fucking psychopaths, that's who,I retort. Probably Grayson, too. The algae-loving creep.

I bring my full attention back to the kids. Although 'miniature natural disasters' seems more appropriate, considering Caleb is now surrounded by a swarm of fire and uses it to burn down the roots and then surround Ellie in a tornado of fire.

I struggle to keep my face impassive and resist the urge to walk up to the child of a soldier and punt him across the room. Barely. But, I suppose that wouldn't be very motherly or queenly of me, I suppose. Still felt the urge, though.

Li'Ella lets out a haunting, bloodcurdling giggle that tinkles through the room. Like a fucking manifestation of your worst nightmare after watching a Chucky and Gremlin movie marathon.

Well, that is a little unnerving, I think to myself.

Ah, she's been practicing the laugh of death. Just as terrifying as I would expect from my pupil. Do you see the fear that shudders through Caleb? Perfect.Oberon says, his voice dripping with satisfaction.

I roll my eyes because of course, he is secretly training Li'Ella on one-linersandmurderous laughter instead of being a good little Tarzan.

The fire tornado rises until Li'Ella is no longer visible. Other than the laugh that kicks up a notch, you would think Caleb has won, that is, until a root wraps around Caleb's foot, and she appears in front of him, punching him in the nose while pointing her sword at his neck--holy, diversion.

"Yield! You pestilence upon this earth! I demand recompense for this slight upon my character." She yells, chin high, and this time we all swivel our heads to Oberon.

He shrugs, "It is better than her using foul language. I quite find there is nothing like an eloquent insult."

"I yeild," Caleb says proudly.

Ellie, steps back and after shielding her sword, she turns to Grayson and Oberon, "I win!" She beams, her usual child-like exuberance back. Caleb walks over and bows, his hand over his heart, "Good fight, Li'Ella. I was wrong, and I apologize. I'll get you next time." He smiles, and she nods back. At that, everyone claps, and Caleb shoots a look at his father, who tips his head, indicating for him to follow. Caleb expels a deep breath and follows, eyes downcast.

"Caleb," I say softly. He stops and looks up at me, his blue eyes filled with unshed tears. Shame, regret, and sadness pour off of him in waves, and my heart tugs. I get down to my knees and hold out my arms, which he promptly steps into, and I wrap my arms around him. I hug him tightly because, at the end of the day, he is a child learning the ways of war at a time when he should be running around, being silly, and getting into harmless trouble.

"It takes a great deal of courage to admit when you are wrong," I whisper. "I admire your strength. You showed us quite a bit of skill for someone so young, you are learning quickly. I look forward to seeing everything the future brings you. Who knows, maybe you'll be part of the Royal Guard one day." With a final squeeze, he steps back, and I shoot him a wink.

"Thank you, Queen Rhiona." He bows quickly and runs after his father, who gives me a grateful smile, which I return.

Turning to Li'Ella, I reach out, and she barrels into me, I laugh. "You were incredible. I am very proud. It looks like you have a pretty great official and secret instructor," I side-eye Oberon with a smirk.

"Thank you, Queen Mommy," she says, happiness coursing through her.

"Do you want to see a real challenge?" I mock whisper.

She bobs her head and runs off to jump into Grayson's arms, who scoops her up in a flash. I watch as he whispers something into her ear that has her looking at him adoringly. Li'Ella gives a quick wave to her mother, who is still watching close by, and her mother gives Grayson the same besotted look echoed on Li'Ellas's face.

Watch out, Gray; looks like your milkshake is bringing all the Fae to the yard, but my knife is sharper than theirs,I tease, kind of, and shoot him a wink.

His laugh echoes through my head as I move to stand. Ryder is at my side in a flash, helping me stand, and while I don't need the help anymore, I love how attentive they all are.

As much as I like to see you on your knees, my love, it was highly inappropriate to proposition me like this, I mean, what would the children think?

I laugh.That's what door locks and soundproof magic are for.

I like the way you think, gorgeous,he whispers through our bond, kisses my cheek, winking before moving to stand off to the side.

I grin and let my voice carry throughout the room as I look around and finally let my eyes fall on Oberon, who stares at me as impassive as ever, his eyes flickering in amusement and a bit of blood lust as he picks up on my thoughts."King Oberon, for the crimes of beating up my squishy and wenti-poo's, I challenge you."

* * *

Hunter

I roll my eyes at the challenge, barely suppressing my laugh. I give everyone around us a pointed glare, making sure they step back. Oberon is a show-off by nature, but Hudson is...well, she's Hudson. Unpredictable doesn't begin to cover her idiosyncrasies.

As Grayson puts an eager Ellie on his shoulders, the crowd steps back, some Fae taking into the air to watch from a better vantage point, a mix of fascination and unadulterated fear plain on their faces. I could tell them they have nothing to worry about, but I won't. I think seeing Hudson in combat when while beautifully rounded with my children, will help them see that their Queen is nothing less than a fucking gift.

Can she challenge her own Mate?Jensi asks with a note of amusement.

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