Page 121 of Crown of Storm and Silence
Through our bond, I feel Kaan's emotions as he prepares in his own chambers—anticipation mixed with protective fury that someone might use this celebration to threaten our family. His shadows have been restless all day, responding to the tension that comes with hosting potential enemies in our home.
"How many Light Court representatives accepted the invitation?" I ask, though I'm not sure I want the answer.
"Twelve confirmed attendees," Banu replies with false cheer. "Including three who were definitely involved in the border incidents. Very bold of them to show up after spending weeks justifying military incursions into our territory."
"And Zohan?"
"Oh, your darling brother will be here," she says with acidic sweetness. "Apparently, he wouldn't miss the opportunity to see how his intelligence reports are being put to use."
Elçin's expression hardens at the mention of Zohan, her hand moving unconsciously to rest on her sword hilt. "I still think allowing him to attend was a mistake. His presence here, after what we learned about his activities..." She shakes her head grimly. "Family or not, he's a security risk we can't afford."
The betrayal still cuts deep. My brother—the person I sacrificed everything to protect—has been feeding information to the Light Court, painting our realm as unstable and dangerous. Every private conversation, every vulnerable moment, is carefully catalogued and reported to justify their increasing aggression.
"I need to talk to him tonight," I say quietly. "Find out how deep this goes."
"Carefully," Banu warns, her expression growing serious. "Whatever game he's playing, he's been at it for months. That kind of deception doesn't happen overnight."
"And with backup," Elçin adds firmly. "I'll be watching him throughout the evening. If he makes any suspicious contacts or attempts to isolate you, I'll intervene." Her storm-gray eyes meet mine with unwavering resolve. "Trust is a luxury we can't afford tonight, cousin. Not even with family."
Before I can respond, the chamber doors open to admit Kaan, and my breath catches at the sight of him. He's dressed in formal court attire—black silk and silver thread that makes his dark eyes look like captured starlight. The poison that once marked his skin is gone completely, leaving only aristocratic perfection that speaks of power barely contained.
"Hatun," he says softly, crossing to my side with predatory grace. "You look magnificent."
"You clean up well yourself," I reply, accepting his kiss with the kind of public affection that will send clear messages to everyone watching tonight. Through our bond, I feel his satisfaction with my appearance, his possessive pride in having me at his side.
Elçin clears her throat diplomatically. "If I may interrupt this touching moment—security briefing. I've positioned additional guards at all entrances, with particular attention to the Light Court delegation's seating arrangement. Several of our guests are carrying more than ceremonial weapons, and at least two demons in attendance have documented connections to assassination contracts."
"I have everything under control," Kaan replies, though his tone carries acknowledgment of her thoroughness.
"The guests are arriving," he murmurs against my ear. "Are you ready for this?"
"Ready to smile diplomatically while dancing around people who want to destroy us?" I ask with dark humor. "It's just another day in paradise."
His laugh is rough with genuine amusement. "Remind me why we decided to host a party for our enemies."
"Because," Banu interjects with theatrical wisdom, "nothing projects strength like throwing an elaborate celebration when people expect you to be cowering in fear. Very bold. Very, 'we're too powerful to be threatened by your petty scheming.'"
"Plus," I add, straightening Kaan's ceremonial collar with wifely attention, "it forces them to be civil while giving us the opportunity to observe their reactions. Much easier to read people when they think they're safe."
"And it creates a controlled environment where we can monitor all potential threats simultaneously," Elçin adds with satisfaction. "Much preferable to wondering where they are andwhat they're planning in scattered locations across multiple realms."
"Exactly," I agree, nodding at Elçin's strategic insight.
"My devious wife," Kaan says with obvious pride. "I knew there was a reason I fell in love with your strategic mind."
"Among other things," I reply, letting heat flow through our bond in a way that makes his shadows writhe with interest.
"Behave," he warns, though his voice carries promise rather than reproof. "At least until after we've dealt with the political maneuvering."
"No promises," I say sweetly, accepting his offered arm.
Elçin moves ahead of us, her hand resting casually on her sword hilt as she scans the corridor. "I'll take point," she says over her shoulder. "The halls are secure, but I want to maintain visual contact with potential threats from the moment we enter the great hall."
The great hall has been transformed into a glittering wonderland that speaks of power, wealth, and absolute confidence in our realm's stability. Shadow lords in their finest attire mingle with visiting dignitaries, while servants glide through the crowd bearing wine that sparkles like liquid starlight. Musicians play from a raised dais, their melodies carefully chosen to inspire celebration rather than the darker emotions shadow magic can evoke.
"Magnificent work," Kaan murmurs to Banu as we survey the scene. "You've managed to make our home look both welcoming and intimidating."
"I do try," she replies with pride. "Though I have to say, watching Emir manage the security arrangements has been quite entertaining. Very intense concentration. Lots of brooding over guest lists and exit strategies."
