Page 134 of A Crown Without Mercy

“I would like to introduce you to Sylvana Phaidra Ascelin-Acheron!”

The crowd stilled momentarily when they heard the name Ascelin. Sylvana watched how they fell silent, glanced at each other, whispered in each other’s ears, and looked at her as if in disbelief.

“I know this comes as a surprise to all and yes, Sylvana Acheron is a purebred Ascelin.”

Kieran leaned over and she felt the warmth of his breath in her ear. “They will need a moment to come to terms with who you are. This was to be expected.”

She looked up at him and smiled.

“Aru—Aru—Aru,” rang out from the warriors as well as the members of the Guild, breaking the awkward silence.

“The Acherons have found their Ascelin!” someone shouted from within the crowd.

“This is wondrous news!” another shouted.

Rhazien, who was standing behind Alaric, Calista, and Mira, raised his sword and the crowd turned their attention to him.

“Alaric, Calista, and Mira Ascelin now belong to the Acheron’s clan are under the protection of the Guild,” Astaroth announced.

Mira turned around and smiled at Laurent; he nodded and smiled back and Enatta winked at her.

Calista felt a hand on her lower back so she turned around to see who it was. “I am Venthana’s brother, Rhazien. I would be honored if you would join me for a drink later?”

“Did she or Sylvana put you up to this?” Calista asked.

“Venthana may have mentioned something about Sylvana having a stunning sister who could use someone to show her around.”

“How can I turn down such an eloquent offer?” she chuckled.

“Very well,” he said as he kissed the back of her hand. “Meet me on the veranda in an hour.”

“I will be there with baited-breath,” she joked.

“And I will count down the minutes.” He winked.

Once he was out of earshot, Alaric turned to Calista. “Don’t you start this shit.”

“Relax, Alaric. I met Venthana last night and she and Sylvana are very close.”

“Based on the flirtatiousness in your voice, I assume this was not unexpected?”

“She may have mentioned his name, and I was not flirting.”

“If you say so.”

“Alaric, it’s fine.”

“He is a member of the Guild, Calista. Do not get involved with him. I already have to explain to father Sylvana mated the Acherons. I’d rather take the next shanty boat out of port than tell him you mated a member of the Guild.”

She laughed aloud, wrapped her arm around his, and playfully nudged his shoulder. “I think you are the one who could use a drink.”

“Alaric, can I go see Laurent?” Mira asked.

“Yes. But do not leave the grounds with him or I will give you a well-deserved spanking,” he threatened lightheartedly.

Mira rolled her eyes. “You wouldn’t dare.” She then giggled and ran off.

“We need to watch Enatta around her,” Calista said.

---