Contract With The Alpha King by Brey Mitchylle

Chapter

92

"There are two new envoys outside, both sent by the council, Regor informed Elijah, his face grave. "I already

told them that Lady Fiona is taking sonte tto rest, but they refused to leave "They know I'm awake, Fiona

said, letting out a yawn

Regor stood in the doorway, his expression wary as he glanced between Elijah and Frona. "These two envoys are

putting on a bit of a show," he exphined. "They've been speaking loudly about their ‘courtesy visit and have

ensured a small crowd gathers to watch. It's as if they want to be seen here, making sure everyone knows

they're here for Lady Fiona'vuke"

Elijah's eyes narrowed in irritation. "Send them away, Regor. We don't need a council spectacle at every turn.

But Fiona looked at Elijah, her brow furrowed. "Elijah, why does the council even bother with me? Aren't they

tired of fakery?"

"Because you're doing something they can't" Elijah answered almost immediately. The council claims to protect

the people, but they're stuck in court politics, isolated from the villages and the soldiers. You've shown up,

healed these people, and made an impact right before their eyes. Word. of your deeds has spread to the

surrounding villages, Fiona. People are beginning to talk, to hope" He met her gaze, his expression serious. "And

as for the soldiers-they're thrilled. Your presence here has given them a sense of value that the council has never

managed."

Fiona's expression grow thoughtful "So, because I'm actually helping here, is the council's influence starting to

wane? That fast? She knew this would eventually happen but why was the council so threatened?

Elijah gave a sharp nod. "Exactly. They rely on their authority to keep control, not genuine loyalty or respect. But

you've earned both from the people and the soldiers. And now, the council fears you could turn that influence

into gemine power-power that doesn't answer to them.

She tilted her head processing his words. "But what about your father. His Majesty’ Is he just like them?"

Elijah shook his head. "No, my father isn't like that. He's aware of the council's failings. He supports the idea of

real aid for the people, but his hands are often tied by those scouncil members who cling to their power"

Fiona nodded thoughtfully. Then I'll meet with these envoys. If they're so desperate for a show, let's see what

they really want." She rose from her seat, her gaze steady as she looked at Regor. "Bring them in, lets keep it

brief Fiona grew up with Elise. She had a lot of experience in hiding her swords in her words and daggers in her

smiles.

Regor bowed slightly and left to carry out her instructions. Elijah watched her, a hint of pride flickering in his

gaze. "Just remember," he said. quietly "These men are here to maintain appearances. They'll talk of loyalty, of

courtesy, but their real aim is to keep you within their reach?

Fiona gave

him a reassuring smile. "Then let's give them a show."

The two envoys stepped into the room, each wearing a polished, courteous smile. They exchanged nods before

one of them, a tall man with sleek, silver-threaded hair, took a step forward. "Lady Fiona, it is an absolute honor

to finally meet you," he said, bowing slightly. "I am Envoy Ardric of the Stormvale Pack, and my companion here

is Envoy Calls of the Nightshade Pack.

Envoy Calis inclined his head respectfully. "We have heard much of your dedication, Lady Fiona. Your compassion

and determination to help those affected in the villages have reached every corner of the kingdom. Truly, it's a

blessing to see someone of noble blood take such an interest in the common folk"

Ardric nodded, lin pare almost reverent. "Yes, Lady Fiona, Your heart is a rare one. Many in your positions would

leave such tasks to others, but you you've taken it upon yourself to bring hope and healing with your own hands.

Remarkable. Your kindness is unmatched, truly

met tarir flattery with a small, polite smile, but a glance at Elijah showed his expression had darkened, his

posture stiffening with each word of their excessive praise. Just as he seemed on the verge of speaking, Fiona

interjected, her own tone light. "Thank you, Envoys, for such kind words," she said, keeping her gaze steady. If

she was right, these two packs were the hof two council member. However, the envoys didn't mention

anything about them.

Tui humbled by your regard She offered them a smile that was both gracious and just slightly too sweet. "And, of

course, | must acknowledge the renowned strength and wisdom of the Stormvale and Nightshade Packs. Without

your impressive leadership, the kingdom would surely suffer. Everyone knows how tirelessly you serve"

The envoys' polite voiles faltered, barely concealing their discomfort as Fiona continued.

"Your reputation for loyalty anil. grorosity has reached far and wide," she added. "So well-deserved, especially

given your

your unwavering dedication

to all parks, no matter their rank or status" She held their gaze for a moment, her own expression unchanging,

as the weight of her pointed words

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Chapter 92

Envoy Calis's expression turned awkward, but he quickly masked it, exchanging a glance with Envoy Aedric. After

a brief silence. Aedric forced a strained smile. "Well, Lady Fiona, we simply wanted to express that if there is

anything you might need anything at all, please do not hesitate to trachout. We are here to SALE.

Fiona's eyes sparkled with feigned innocence as she looked between them "Oh, that's very kind, Envoys She

gestured towards Elijah, who was watching them intently. "But | already have the Prince by my side. What could

you possibly offerthat he cannot?"

The question hung in the air as both envoys eyes widened slightly. Envoy Calis hesitated before answering, but

before he could say a word, Fiona continued, her tone innocently cunous

"Surely" she added, glancing between them. "You aren't suggesting that the Prince lacks the means to provide

for| would hate to think that you believe he is and, by extension, the crown impoverished in sway

Aedric and Calis exchanged uneasy glances, their carefully maintained composure beginning to crack. They both

forced brief, hollow laughs, each mumbling polite assurances that, of course, they had meant no such thing.

"Good" Fiona beamed, her smile widening as she clasped her hands together in a show of gratitude. "And of

course, | must also acknowledge the Crown's knwavering support. It is such a relief to know the council and

palace are so dedicated to our efforts here. Their generosity has reached far and wide especially in times of

need" She glanced at the envoys, noting the flicker of uncase that passed between them as her praise lingered.

Her eyes shifted to Envoy Ardric and Calis. "Oh you both look quite pale. Is everything alright? Was the trip too

tiring? Perhaps | should arrange the best rooms for you so you might recover more comfortably?" Her face

remained innocently expectant as she spoke.

Aedne suffered and Galis's face turned noticeably paler. They exchanged a quick, nervous glance, realizing the

subtle jab hidden in her words. It was clear to them that Fiona's comment wasn't merely about comfort. She was

underscoring the absurdity of their expectations, as if they, mere envoys, deserved royal treatment here.

Meanwhile, Elijah, of royal blood and higher rank, had no such demands.

They struggled to and an answer, but continued, her eyes gleaming. "After all," she said softly, "it would only

be proper to treat such esteemed. envoys with utmost care. The Prince himself is lodging in modest quarters, yet

surely you deserve the best we have to offer. Do you feel the same, Envoy Redres

Aedric's composure was slipping his face visibly tense as he forced a polite response. "Thank you, Lady Fiona.

We... don't require anything beyond the basics. We're simply here to assist."

Calis nodded, glancing down at the floor. "We're honored by your consideration, truly

Fasta tihed her head, watching them with a polite, unmoving smile. "Good. all chere for, in't it Service, not

comfort?

"Good. It's comforting to know you're both so humble. After all, it's what we're

The two envoys exchanged another look, their uprase transforming into something closer to wariness. Fiona's

smile hadn't wavered, yet they could no longer are the sweet, nave healer they'd expected to find. Beneath that

polite exterior, they sensed something far sharper-a wolf in sheep's clothing an opponent they hadn't

anticipated.