Aralyn wandered through the castle halls, watching as servants rushed about, stringing up crimson banners and stacking crates of exotic wine. The scent of perfumed petals drifted in the air.
"Must be the Duke of Celebrations handwork behind this frenzy," she murmured. "So… tomorrow's the day."
The day she would be married to the Demon Lord.
She clenched her fists. Every part of her wanted to reject it. Yet Callistus plan still lingered in her mind, dangerous, daring, uncertain.
But what other choice did she have?
Her steps slowed.
Rhonex.
She stopped completely, her breath hitching. Wait... what was his name again?
Lord Rhonex.
She repeated it silently. Then again. Louder.
"Rhonex… Rhonex…"
A memory stirred like a whisper in the dark.
That name...
"Aye!" Araline gasped, the realization slamming into her so hard she spoke aloud. Several passing servants shot her strange looks.
She ignored them and slapped her cheeks. Hard. "How could I have forgotten?"
