The Crown's Fire - Chapter 208

Chapter 208: Chosen As A Dragonrider
Katelina was speechless but not utterly surprised. For some reason, she had somehow seen this coming. After all, Ezekiel had been very straightforward with her since the first time they met when she was Katelina, the Queen Regent of Zion.

Still, she couldn’t find the words to reply to what the King of Ebodia had just said.

“You may think I’m presumptuous, but I’m not,” Ezekiel continued, his voice unwavering. “I’m just desperate not to let you go. I don’t want to lose you like I almost did when you suddenly disappeared. It’s nerve-wracking, Kate, so I will use everything in my power to ensure you have no choice but to be with me…”

Ezekiel’s declaration hung in the air, heavy with emotion and determination. Katelina could feel the intensity of his gaze, the sincerity in his voice, and the depth of his feelings for her.

“You make it sound like I have no right to say no to it,” Katelina murmured with a frown.

“Saying no is never an option, Kate,” Ezekiel stated firmly.

Katelina narrowed her eyes at him and scoffed, “And here I thought the assistance and help you’re giving were out of your goodwill as a benevolent ruler.”

Ezekiel chuckled. “After you marry me and stay with me, then I will be at your service for free—whatever, whenever it may be…”

Katelina’s face reddened. This man was too good at making her heart flutter.

“Would you like to walk around?” Ezekiel asked, his tone softening. “There’s actually a good place around here that I want to show you.”

Katelina hesitated for a moment before nodding. “Alright, lead the way,” she replied, curiosity piqued by his offer.

Ezekiel stood up and extended his hand to her. She took it, feeling the warmth of his touch as they walked away from the makeshift meeting area. She quickly pulled her hand away noticing eyes were on them, but Ezekiel held it firmly, earning some subtle stares and sneaky glances around them.

“My hand, they are staring at us,” Katelina murmured.

“Let them know that you’re already with me,” Ezekiel casually answered.

Katelina released a heavy sigh, but no doubt holding hands with him like this felt so familiar and warm. She couldn’t help but feel a sense of comfort and belonging, even amid the scrutiny.

As they walked further, the tension seemed to dissipate, replaced by a quiet understanding between them. The path led them deeper into the forest, the canopy of trees providing a cool shade from the midday sun. The sounds of nature surrounded them, creating a peaceful atmosphere that contrasted with the earlier tension.

As they walked, Ezekiel spoke, “There’s a hidden grove not far from here. It’s a place I found during one of my earlier visits. I thought you might appreciate its beauty.”

Katelina glanced at him, noting the sincerity in his expression. Despite her reservations, she couldn’t deny the pull she felt toward him, the undeniable connection that seemed to grow stronger with each passing moment.

When they finally reached the grove, Katelina gasped. It was a serene and enchanting place, with a crystal-clear stream running through it and flowers of every color blooming in abundance. The air was filled with the gentle hum of nature, a stark contrast to the tension of the summit.

Katelina’s heart swelled as she took in the beauty of the grove. “It’s… breathtaking,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

Ezekiel stepped closer, his gaze never leaving hers. “Just like you,” he said softly, his hand gently cupping her cheek. For a moment, they stood there in silence, the world around them fading away.

*****

Meanwhile, Asura felt a wave of boredom wash over her as she watched her Queen Regent go off somewhere alone with King Ezekiel. Instead of returning to their camp, she decided to head straight to Ebodia’s camp. Though some activities were scheduled to start soon, she wasn’t in the mood to participate today.

She made her way towards Lady Cora’s tent, hoping to check on Aurum. “Lady Cora, are you inside? It’s me, Asura,” she called from outside the tent.

“Yes, I am inside. Please come in, Lady Asura,” Cora responded. With a bright smile, Asura entered Cora’s tent, only to find Kasper inside as well, drinking tea with Cora.

“Good morning, Lady Asura,” Kasper greeted her with a curt nod. She returned his greeting with an awkward smile. Then, turning to Cora, she said, “I didn’t know you had a guest. I should come back later.”

“Wait, but why? Are you uncomfortable with me around?” Kasper asked suddenly, his eyes keenly focused on her.

‘What’s with his look?’ she mused. His intense gaze made her feel weird, as though he was looking deep into her soul.

“It’s not like that…” she murmured with a pout.

“Come here then and have a seat while Lady Cora pours you a drink,” Kasper suggested with a smile.

“Would you like to pet Aurum for a while?” Cora asked, drawing Asura’s attention back to her. Asura blinked and glanced at Kasper. ‘Was it fine to casually talk about their baby dragon in front of this Kasper?’ she thought.

“It’s fine, Lady Asura. Kasper can be trusted, and he’s already aware of the hatching of the dragons,” Cora reassured her.

Feeling more at ease, Asura nodded and took a seat. Kasper’s presence still made her a bit uneasy, but she trusted Cora’s judgment. As she settled in, Cora handed her a cup of tea.

“So, how are things?” Asura asked, trying to make casual conversation while reaching out to pet Aurum, that Cora released from its closed magical cage.

Cora smiled warmly. “Things are going well. Aurum is growing quickly and adapting wonderfully.”

Kasper watched Asura with interest. “It must be fascinating to be so close to a dragon. Not many can say they’ve had such an experience.”

Asura nodded, her fingers gently stroking Aurum’s soft scales. “It is. They’re incredible creatures.”

“Do you want to be chosen as a dragonrider? I have a trick that can help if you want,” Kasper said with a devious smile.