Page 12 of Journey to the Elderoak
She craned her neck and her eyes caught on the thousands of steps they’d have to take to reach the top. Corvus had already begun to climb, his guards behind him.
With a deep breath, Ava followed.
Iron torches flickeringwith bright orange flames framed the double stone doors of the throne room. The colors of Saxumdale were full of blues and purples, integrated into their armor and clothing, like the browns, golds and greens of Monterre. Guards flanked the doors, their shimmering armor accentuated with deep violet capes.
They’d climbed so many steps it had felt almost endless, then wound their way through countless hallways before reaching the throne room. Ava’s legs ached with exhaustion, and she longed to soak in a hot bath before dinner.
The castle walls, ceiling, and floor were made from the dark stone of the mountain, rugs in the kingdom’s colors adding a bit of warmth to the space. In lieu of artwork, there were statuesand carvings integrated into the structure of the castle. Carvings of old kings and queens, of swords and weapons and other motifs.
“Are you ready?” Raine leaned in and whispered as the guards prepared to open the doors.
“Yes.”
“Don’t do what you did last time you met a king.” He winked at her.
She huffed in response. Last time she met royalty, her own brother, he thought she was threatening him, and she almost got herself into trouble. She wouldn’t make that mistake again.
The doors opened and they entered the long, narrow throne room. Tapestries hung from the walls with depictions of stone fae in battle and posing with their weapons. Braziers lined the walkway, casting an eerie glow as their flames danced among themselves. A navy-blue rug led them to the dais, where two stunning women were seated upon deep black stone thrones carved with tall spires along the back. Ava had learned in her studies their names were Astrid and Soren and they’d been ruling this kingdom for the last eighty years after their former queen was killed in battle.
“Presenting Ava Everwood, Princess of Monterre, sister of King Thorne Everwood,” the steward announced. “Accompanied by General Casimir Undergrove and Captain Raine Verlice.”
Ava clutched her skirt and curtsied as the rest of them bowed.
“Welcome to Saxumdale,” Astrid said, brushing her black curls behind her shoulder. She had light gray stony skin, dark blue eyes and was dressed in a deep purple gown. “How did you find your journey?”
“It went smoothly. The weather was kind to us,” Ava responded.
“I’m glad to hear it,” Astrid said warmly.
Soren scrutinized Ava with hazel eyes, her shoulder length red hair bright against the stone crown resting upon her head with a glowing purple crystal in the center, matching the one her wife bore. Her cerulean gown shifted as she crossed her legs.
“I’ve been intrigued to meet this long lost fae but still human princess I’ve heard so much about,” Soren spoke. “How are you adjusting to your new life?”
Ava cleared her throat, trying to ignore her nerves. “It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve fallen in love with Monterre. Everyone’s been welcoming.”
“Thorne is a kind ruler,” Soren said. “You’re lucky to have him as your brother.”
“I am.”
“Did you bring the goods he promised?” Astrid asked.
“Yes, we did. They were being unloaded when we left the ship. I also have a letter from Thorne.”
“Oh?” said Soren.
“Yes.”
Casimir retrieved the sealed envelope from his pocket and handed it to Ava. She held it out and the steward took it and walked to the queens, delivering it to Astrid.
Astrid opened the letter as Soren leaned over to read it alongside her. They both frowned, then smiled, and Astrid attempted to hide a small laugh. Ava tried to make sense of their reactions, unsure what the letter contained.
“Interesting,” Astrid murmured. “Alright. I’m sure you’re tired from your journey. Why don’t you rest and get cleaned up and we’ll meet at dinner to discuss what you came here for.”
Ava curtsied once more, thanking the queens for their time, and followed her group out the door.
5
The fire crackled as it consumed the wood beneath its orange flames, warming the small stone bedroom assigned to Ava. The bed was made in deep violet fabrics, and layered rugs brought a cozy feel to the space.
