Cage of Deceit(77)

“What’s taking so long?” she asked as she stood next to Rema and Darmik, waiting to be announced.

“Security,” her father answered. “We’re being extra cautious.”

Marek remained off to the side, looking mighty handsome in his formal Royal Guard uniform, his hair combed back, and a shining sword strapped to his waist.

“Since you’re engaged,” Darmik said, “Prince Odar will escort you inside once he joins us.”

“Is he aware of the upcoming events?” she asked, trying to be vague since others were nearby.

Darmik leaned in close to Allyssa. “I told Jarvik everything so arrangements could be made. The squire seems to be well-equipped to handle these sorts of situations. I had a long conversation with him, and I trust he has your best interest at heart. He is working with Marek to secure two additional soldiers for the journey.”

“So few men for such a long way?”

“You can’t attract attention.”

She couldn’t believe she was set to leave tomorrow night with Grevik still captive. There had to be a way to save him before she left.

Movement caught her attention, and she glanced up in time to see the prince and squire strolling toward her. Her breath caught. Jarvik looked stunning dressed in what had to be Fren’s high-ranking military uniform—dark blue fabric with the royal seal embroidered on the front of his tunic. The color set off his dark hair, suiting him well.

Prince Odar cleared his throat, forcing her attention from the squire to him. The prince took her gloved hand and kissed it. “You look beautiful,” he said, seductively smiling under hooded eyes. He placed her hand on his arm, and they took their place beside her parents.

“You look handsome,” she said, complimenting him. He wore a sapphire overcoat with ivory embroidery down the center. The color set off his piercing blue eyes, making him look every bit the pretty prince that he was.

A steward announced Princess Allyssa and Prince Odar, and they entered the Great Hall while the hundred or so guests inside bowed and curtsied to them. After the empress and emperor came in, the festive music began. Prince Odar swung Allyssa into his embrace for the first dance.

Jarvik stood off to the side among the Fren soldiers, who all wore their military uniforms with polished swords strapped to their waists. His eyes roamed around the room, observing every detail. Allyssa spotted Marek speaking with a group of guards, pointing to the doors, which were all closed. Four times the standard amount of guards were stationed throughout the room. The guests didn’t seem to notice, and if they did, they didn’t show any indication something was amiss.

“Like my squire, you seem a bit off,” the prince mused. “Is something the matter?” He twirled her around and brought her back to his chest, holding her tightly.

“I’m sorry for my distraction,” she said. “I have a lot on my mind.”

“Care to tell me? I am a good listener.”

“I assumed Jarvik already apprised you of events.”

His eyes darkened. “You are mistaken. He hasn’t disclosed anything to me.” He forced his smile to remain in place.

She glanced over to where the squire stood watching her, his arms folded across his chest. “There was a security issue earlier.” She smiled up at Odar. “It must not have been as severe as I’d originally thought if he didn’t bother to tell you about it.” Allyssa couldn’t discuss what was really going on right now. It wasn’t the time or place.

He twirled her around again. Didn’t Odar notice the additional guards? He should at least question why so many were present. He couldn’t possibly be that oblivious. Why didn’t Jarvik tell the prince? Why would he keep the assassin and the travel plans from him?

Prince Odar dipped her backwards, and then slowly brought her back up. “You spoke with Jarvik?” he asked, a hint of jealousy coloring his voice.

“I was speaking with the head of my guard, Marek,” she answered, side-stepping his question. “He told me he planned to talk to Jarvik so you’d be informed.”

His smile returned. “You know,” he said, spinning her around, “you can come to me regarding such matters. You do not need to deal with your guard.”

Allyssa wanted to punch him. She wasn’t some stupid, naïve girl who had to have a man take care of her. She forced herself to smile at him, ready for this dance to be over. “I will keep that in mind for next time,” she replied, a sharp edge to her voice. How was she ever going to survive being stuck in a carriage with this man while they traveled to Fren? He certainly was nice, cordial, and friendly, but he failed to see the obvious and he wasn’t quick-minded like Jarvik. Yet, she had an obligation to her kingdom. She needed to speak with the king and queen of Fren and secure those soldiers. If they didn’t approve of her, help wouldn’t come. Emperion needed those troops to fight Russek.