Page 28 of Blood of Dragons
Queen Eldinar returned to her royal chambers, while the guards took their positions outside her premises.
Ezra was the only one who remained. “Commander Luxe has arranged for your accommodations. He’ll be out shortly.”
“Giving a stranger a place to sleep seems like a task beneath a commander.”
“You’re no longer a stranger, Calista. I apologize for speaking to you so harshly.”
I couldn’t bring myself to accept his apology, not when the loneliness felt so heavy. All I did was give a slight nod.
“We’re an egoless society, so it’s not beneath his station.”
“What is your title?” His people respected his authority. Even the queen respected his authority. If he wasn’t the commander of their armed forces, I wasn’t sure what he would be.
“General of Riviana Star.”
Wow. “An impressive title for a human.”
“I worked hard to be worthy of the title. Queen Eldinar recognized my commitment to her people…our people.”
“My father would be proud of all you’ve accomplished.”
The mention of his brother seemed to weigh down the corners of his eyes. He broke contact with me and looked elsewhere, the sun continuing to set and the fireflies increasing in number. “When I learned what happened to him…it brought me great sorrow. He was a good brother and a great king.”
“He was.”
He found the strength to look at me again. “Life in Riviana Star is easy. There is no currency system. Take what you need from the market. All we ask is for you to contribute to our society to its betterment. You can volunteer your hands for one of the farms, be an aid for forest preservation, learn a new trade… There are many options.”
“I’ll do that.”
“It’s a peaceful place. You’ll feel like an outsider for a while, but once the elves recognize your goodness, they’ll accept you.They’re not prejudiced against humans, but they don’t care for them either.”
“How many other humans live in the forest?”
“Maybe a handful. The forest is a big place and much to explore, but I ask that you don’t leave the heart of Riviana Star. Others live in this forest, and they aren’t as kind as we are.”
A shiver ran up both of my arms. “Are they elves?”
“Yes…but a different kind,” he said. “Heed my warning and don’t wander off.”
I gave a nod in agreement. “I will.”
Ezra turned his head at someone’s approach. “Commander Luxe.”
“General Ezra.” He joined our company, dressed in armor similar to Ezra’s, but the flower medals pinned to his chest were different. He had blond hair like Queen Eldinar, long and combed back from his face. He was tall and built like my uncle, his blue eyes possessing unquestionable authority. His eyes shifted to mine, and once they did, they remained locked in place, scrutinizing my features like they were details on a map.
“This is Calista, the newest member of Riviana Star,” Ezra said. “Escort her to her new accommodations.”
“Yes, General Ezra.” He hadn’t taken his eyes off my face.
I looked at my uncle. “I just need my things.”
“We’ll provide everything you need,” Ezra said. “Food, water, and clothing.”
“Then I just need my sword.”
Ezra stared at me, the silence heavy.
Commander Luxe hadn’t blinked once throughout the interaction.