Page 12 of Orin

I settled into the chair, keeping my emotions in check. Given that all pure Alarans had telepathic capabilities, it was crucial for me to do my best to conceal my thoughts and emotions around him.

The city guard’s Commander was distrustful of anyone who wasn’t Alaran and he had no difficulty in expressing it. I had a suspicion that he might be aware that I had been asking questions, so I made sure to be prepared in case he confronted me.

He placed his hands together on his desk and sat upright. “We’ve arrested the vendor from yesterday’s altercation.” Therewas a hint of contempt on his face as he observed me, no doubt hoping to elicit a reaction from me as he spoke

I sat up, clutching the chair's arms and attempting to hide my intense distaste for the male individual. “Vendor, sir? He was the victim in the attack. We arrested the perpetrators.”

My superior laughed and narrowed his eyes. “Come on. He’s a hybrid.... we both know they don’t belong here. I released the males you brought in.”

I tightened my jaw. “They?”Is he serious?

“Non-Alarans should not be permitted on Alara. After the incident with the shapeshifter, any one of them could be one.” There was something in his voice that hinted he didn’t believe what he was saying.

I shook my head in disagreement. There was only one known shapeshifter on Alara, and he was in a jail cell. “Sir, the shapeshifters have only disguised themselves as pure-blooded Alarans.”

His sneer intensified as he nodded. “I am sure the King told you that...The truth is, we are clueless about the identity of thoseflutzing griks. That’s why they are called the Unknown forflutzsake. Who knows how they will appear to us. Anyone could be a shapeshifter.”

“Exactly. Anyone.” I said through clenched teeth.Even you.

Not long after I arrived at my temporary position at the city guard, I probed Tinuk’s mind and confirmed that he was not a shapeshifter. But his irritating attitude infuriated me. His lack of honor was evident, and he brought shame to the entire Alaran community.

It was clear he suspected I was a spy for the King.

He spoke again. “I’m pulling the guards from the marketplace. We have better places that need to be patrolled within the city.”

I fought the urge to say something not so polite, but I had a mission to complete.

Tinuk sat back, looking smug.

I cleared my throat. “Why are you choosing to leave the market unprotected?”

He pressed his lips into a line. “Things will take care of themselves there. Don’t you worry about it. I’m looking after it. I have another assignment for you.” He paused. “There have been reports of Krilex ships seen landing near Fruner mine. I am sending you to investigate. Report back if you see any ships, but don’t engage them without notifying me first.”

“Understood, sir.” I didn’t understand. Tinuk’s role as Commander of the city guards was just that. He had no jurisdiction over such things as ships landing outside the city limits. His request made no sense.

If Krilex ships were seen landing, the King would have been notified. I wanted to discover the truth here. But first I would report to King Trex.

EVERY TIME I ENTEREDthe palace my mind was dominated by thoughts of the enchanting goddess with brown hair, who possessed a piece of my heart and soul.

Acknowledging that I mishandled my opportunity to be with her was disheartening. The fear of disappointing Olivia or the fear of her rejecting me. It was all the same. And it was too late. She had chosen someone else who would never be her destined fated mate. The deep ache of loss filled my entire being. I’d lost my K’sha, and with it, any chance of happiness.

On my way to update King Trex. I inhaled the sprawling building’s unique aroma. The scent was always fresh, with a hint of flowers and polish.

The royal suite was on the opposite side of the palace from the guest suites, where Olivia was living. Although I knew she had moved on, I yearned for another glimpse of her.

Instead, I forced myself to head toward the King’s suite. Queen Grace’s smile greeted me when the door opened. “Orin. Hi. Come on in.” She waved her hand to usher me inside.

Bowing my head, I greeted her and stepped inside.

“I’ll fetch Trex for you,” she said before rushing off.

Multiple interconnected rooms formed the expansive royal suite on this wing of the palace. A burst of vibrant colors filled the space. The ambiance was a one-of-a-kind and cozy fusion of technology and cherished Ul family heirlooms, complemented by contemporary furnishings.

No staff were present, making it the perfect time for private meetings with the King.

Trex entered the spacious main room, and I stood tall, pulling my shoulders back and lifting my chin. When he approached, I saluted him and he replicated the movement.

He smiled and gestured to the amber chair across from the matching sofa. I bowed my head and sat down.

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