Chapter 32
The queen had let us go, remaining with Yassie and his brother.
I had three days to decide who I wanted to marry. I couldn't imagine marrying both men—though, considering this wasn't even my own body, the idea didn't sound entirely terrible.
Sey halted his horse, hopping off near a tree. I followed suit.
"Let's set up camp. It's getting dark."
"I agree," I replied, handing the reins to Arl.
He smiled, taking Sey's horse as well.
"Are we going to talk?" I turned to Sey. "Why would you propose that I marry you?"
"I know you aren't the real Aurora. I was trying to help."
"What do you mean I'm not—"
"I've known for a while now. You can drop the act. Besides, we had a deal—you'd help me find the flames. Or have you forgotten that both our kingdoms are falling apart?"
I crouched beside him, handing him the remaining stakes needed to set up the tent.
"Are we sharing a tent?"
"We're going to be husband and wife soon, so why not?" he retorted. "You are planning on picking me, right?"
"I haven't decided yet," I said, standing. "We still need to win over the mortals. Besides, you kinda get under my skin."
"Why would you pick him if you aren't even the real Aurora?"
"That again?"
"It's about time we addressed it. You seem to have no control over the phoenix. The real Queen Aurora never faltered in that sense. She just had a weakness for mortals—and the fact that you don't only confirms my suspicions."
"Is that so?"
"I'm not fishing for a confession. But you will pick me—or both of us. I'm not losing to a mortal."
"The horses are resting, and I've set up a tent for you," Arl said, draping my coat over my shoulders. "I've also sent word to some troops back home. They'll meet us halfway."
"Did you tell him I wasn't the real Aurora?" I asked Sey sharply.
"I did no such thing."
"Whatever. Besides, who would believe you?"
"I'm not threatening you, dear queen," Sey said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "I'm simply saying—pick me, help me secure the flames, and save our damn kingdoms."
"After betraying me and disappearing multiple times, you have no right to demand anything," I snapped. "I'll do what I want."
He pulled me toward him, leaning down until his face was inches from mine. "No, queen—that's my role. The real Aurora is obedient. Kind. Oblivious. Don't break character."
Then, without another word, he crouched again, securing his tent. I left for mine, where Arl waited.
I didn't remember telling Sey anything. I certainly hadn't asked for his stupid advice.
The next morning, my troops arrived, and Arl and I made our way back to the Phoenix Kingdom. Sey followed behind, patient but persistent. We'd received word that Yassie would be waiting at the throne room, ready to be given quarters while I made my decision.
The queen had extended the three-day deadline into three months—but I preferred to decide now. I needed to focus on finding the flames.
We arrived late that evening. My parents greeted us, revealing that my sister had returned. I smiled as I approached her.
"It's been a while, hasn't it?" she said. "I heard you arranged my marriage."
I handed her a piece of jewelry. "Nothing's been decided yet, sister. It's a waiting game."
"I don't wish to marry," she said firmly. "You're welcome to take multiple husbands, but I'd rather serve at the border from now on."
I nodded, calling for Arl before turning to Yassie.
"I see you've brought your things. What makes you so sure I'd choose you?"
He smiled. "It's good to see you too. You don't have to choose me. One more night with you is all I want."
"What do you mean, one more night?"
Before he could answer, Sey arrived, dropping his bags at the door.
"Well?" he asked, arms crossed. "Is that a yes?"