Page 52 of The Divine Shallows
“I’d like to see you try,” Elowyn murmured.
A low noise escaped Draeden’s throat as his eyes raked over her body. Before Elowyn could tempt him, he tore his eyes away from her.
“I will,” Draeden vowed, his expression softening. “When the time is right.”
Elowyn frowned at his decision. “Promise me then.”
“I can offer more than just a promise,” Draeden grinned devilishly. “I swear an oath to you.”
“I’ve amassed two promises and an oath from you. I plan to collect on all three.”
Draeden chuckled. “Consider one of them already fulfilled.”
He clasped Elowyn’s hand, her laughter music to his ears as he spun her around gently before leading her to a nearby bench. They settled down, and Elowyn nestled into his lap, finding comfort in the crook of his neck. Draeden’s smile radiated warmth as he toyed with a strand of her white hair between his fingers.
“Tomorrow, you’re off to Orwyn. I can’t wait to show you around my home.”
“What’s your favorite part of Orwyn?”
“The city. I adore the folk of Orwyn. They’re the heart of my kingdom.”
“I’ve never been to a city. Not even back in Eriden. My father never allowed it.”
Draeden turned to her, “Never been to any city? Ever?”
“Never.”
“Well, we’ll change that tomorrow. I’ll show you all my favorite spots in the city. There’s so much to see and do, especially with the Ceremony in full swing.”
Elowyn’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “Really?”
“Absolutely,” Draeden murmured, planting a gentle kiss on her head. “We’ll have to start at sunrise to make the most of it before the Fifth Day begins. And don’t worry about the wards; I’ll make sure we get through them.”
Elowyn’s expression faltered slightly. “I’ve never been to Orwyn, so I’m not sure if I could summon a moongate there on my own.”
“I think you’d never forgive me if I made another portal joke. Since it’s your first time visiting Orwyn, let’s meet at the Temple, and I’ll guide you from there.”
“I’m excited to see your home,” Elowyn said cheerfully as she sat up, turning to gaze into his golden eyes. “Thank you for wanting to show me.”
“Always, anything for you.”
“Do you have to rehearse being this charming?”
“It comes naturally.”
“Your arrogance is bigger than the moon.”
“What do you say? Have my ruses and wiles successfully courted you?”
“I’d say so.”
Draeden chuckled and gently lifted her chin, tilting her head towards him as he leaned in to kiss her gingerly. He continued to cradle her, showering her with affection. Segments of Elowyn’s sorrows from earlier began to unravel and unwind, waning at the hands of Draeden’s admiration and intimacy. Her heart was beating to the rhythm of Draeden’s, and she couldn’t imagine another feeling more perfect.
“It bringsus great pleasure to host the Keeper’s Aegis in Prymont this divine season,” Queen Emilyn Skyborn beamed. Seated upon her castle’s dais, she occupied a heavenly throne hewn from stone. “On this Fourth Day, our candidates will choose a talisman to imbue with divine magic, creating an aegis to safeguard them during their Trial.”
Beside her and King Nolas were theanimusof Prymont, two feather-winged phoenixes. Elowyn observed Princess Syrilla standing beside the creatures, her flawless gossamer wings falling down her back.
Queen Emilyn’s voice, sweet as honey, continued, “These aegis will serve as a connection, whether tangible or intangible, anchoring the divine candidates to Neramyr as they traverse the Bridge Between Worlds into Caena’s realm. Whether they require strength, courage, perseverance, bravery, or hope, these aegis will remind them of their existence in Neramyr, reminding there is an end—a conclusion—to the trial.”
