A Threat Of War
1300 Words
NARCIA’S POV:
As we drove home, I stared out the window silently. I couldn’t help but feel a tad guilty about what the press had done to that poor girl. If we hadn’t talked her into going out...it would have never happened. However, I will say she handled it exactly how it is to be expected. Those interviews will be on television soon. Everyone in the kingdom will see.
Deryn placed his hand on my knee gently as he drove. “What is on your mind, my sweet?” He paused as we pulled into the packhouse. “There was no way you could have known the press would badger her about Emory.”
I sighed as I unbuckled my seat belt. “No, but I could have been more prepared for such an incident.”
We climbed out of the car quickly and walked inside as the thoughts still swirled around. As we opened the door, an all too familiar scent filled the air. Emory. I looked ahead to see Deryn’s body tense up as he stepped into the house.
“Emory, who let you in?” Deryn’s voice came out in a low whisper.
Emory’s laugh filled the room. “No one let me in, Deryn. In fact, when I arrived, everyone was out going about their such busy lives.”
I walked in behind Deryn as I heard his voice through the pack link already shouting orders. “Nolan, I need you here now. Everyone else, surround the perimeter. Make sure Emory is alone.”
Emory recognized the silence and a smirk spread across his face. “Oh, calm down Deryn. I came to speak to you. Alpha to Alpha. Man to man.”
“I hardly consider this just a chat. I mean, considering you broke into our home.” I said as I stepped past Deryn.
“Oh! My apologies. Did I say man to woman chat?” He laughed as he leaned against the wall next to the television where the interview from earlier in the day played.
“You also didn’t say man to child, yet here you stand.” I scowled watching his every movement.
His smirk vanished almost instantly as he stayed leaning against the wall staring at me. “Ah, and that is where she got the idea to insult me from.” His eyes shifted to stare at Deryn. “It would be wise to remind your...mate...that you and she are on the same playing field as I am now. We are equals. And have been since you gave the crown to that incompetent son of yours.”
I scoffed at his remark. “Equals? When you start to act like our equal, I will consider keeping that in mind. But as long as you keep throwing your tantrum, that will be the furthest thing from the truth.”
“Now, now Narcia. Keep your temper at bay, my love. Fine, Emory. Let’s talk. But bear in mind, you will not disrespect my family in my home.” Deryn warned as he kept a calm expression. He motioned to the couch as they both took a seat.
Nolan stepped into the house behind me as we watched the scene unfolding. Nolan gave me a confused look as I returned a reassuring smile.
I heard his voice through the pack link as we continued to watch the two Alphas sitting having a small stare-down. “My Luna, are you alright?”
“Of course. No need to worry about me. Any update on anyone else from his pack?” I asked as I kept a calm expression watching them closely.
“There are a few of his pack scattered through the woods. But only three members. We have eyes on them. We also have eyes on Leo and Adria just to be safe.” Nolan explained as he closed the door behind him.
“Thank you, Nolan. Who did you send to check on Leo?” I asked curiously thankful that he took extra precautions.
“Shilo and his pack are surrounding the area. I didn’t want to inform Leo unless we had to, so I instructed Shilo to stay far enough back so Leo wouldn’t detect his presence, but close enough to keep watch.” He explained as his eyes scanned the room looking for anything out of the ordinary.
“That is probably for the best. I wouldn’t want to worry him if there is nothing to be worried about.” I smiled as I watched Emory.
Emory sighed as he broke the everlasting silence. “Deryn, you know she doesn’t belong on the throne.”
Deryn smiled a little trying not to laugh. “Ah, and since when did you have the authority to say who does or doesn’t belong?”
“It is common sense, Deryn. She just doesn’t belong here.” Emory gritted his teeth as he spoke.
“Is that so? It seems that you were under the impression that we should break the treaty and just kill them all. Is that correct? Because if it is, please forgive me when I do not take you seriously regarding this matter.” Deryn smirked as he leaned back into the couch.
“Fine, I thought it went without saying but apparently not. They don’t belong in this world either. People like her don’t deserve the air they are breathing. Let alone the thrones they occupy.” Emory’s voice began to raise a little as he spoke. I should have known better than to expect a civil conversation.
“It is not your decision on what happens in this kingdom. If it were, I am sure the goddess would have picked you to rule instead of me. Do you not agree?” Deryn asked c*****g an eyebrow.
“Actually, I am glad you asked. No, I don’t agree. She could have chosen someone fitter to rule than an orphan she saved.” Emory hissed as he clenched his fists on his knees.
To my surprise, Deryn laughed. I knew this subject was always a sensitive one with him. But he would never allow Emory to see that. “Oh, and who would be a better fit? An angry man-child who throws a fit when things don’t go his way?”
Emory rolled his eyes as he tensed up a bit more. “I came here to talk some sense into you, Deryn. Remove her from the throne willingly. We can put all of this nonsense behind us. Is that the face you want people to know you allowed to rule? Such a disrespectful brat. She has no respect for her elders.”
“Elders? Oh, you mean yourself. To be fair, you disrespected her first. And as far as removing her from the throne willingly, what exactly are you implying?” Deryn challenged as he sat up again. This time making direct eye contact with Emory.
“If you refuse to willingly, then I will have no choice but to do it myself by force.” Emory threatened as he stood.
Deryn stood to match his movements. “I would like to see you try,” Deryn growled as he stood in front of him.
“Try? Oh, you mean to succeed.” Emory said shoving past him. “I think we are done here.” He shoved past us as he walked outside letting out a howl. I assumed to tell those of his pack what had transpired here today. He shifted, his clothes ripped from his body, and a huge silver wolf ran off in the direction of his packhouse.
So, the threat of war has finally been made. And I had a strong feeling that neither side would step away from this unscathed.
- Writer
