Cage of Deceit (Reign of Secrets Book 1)

by Jennifer Anne Davis

  “You have quite the admirers,” her mother cooed. “Whatever will you do with all these gifts?”

  “What I always do,” Allyssa replied. “Donate them to the poor.”

  Her parents looked at each other. Allyssa didn’t know what they were thinking, but she always gave the jewelry to shelters for the homeless. She never kept anything. The wooden box was the first item she’d ever even touched.

  “The prince had this delivered,” Rema said, holding out an ornate silver jewelry box. “Care to open it and see what’s inside?”

  Her mother knew she didn’t, which meant Rema wasn’t really asking, but requesting her daughter open the gift. Etiquette required her to wear one of the items, indicating who she would dance with first, but she couldn’t do it. She wasn’t ready for what it meant. If she opened the prince’s gift and wore it, she’d be announcing to the world that she was initiating marriage negotiations with him.

  “It’s okay,” Darmik said. “If you’re not ready, we understand. Maybe next time?”

  She nodded. “Next time. I promise.”

  Rema set the gift down. “All we ask is that you dance with the prince. Try to become better acquainted.”

  “I can do that,” Allyssa replied. “In return, I’d like you to be completely honest with me as to why he’s here and why we need this alliance.”

  “Very well,” Rema answered, taking Allyssa’s hands and holding them tightly. The lines around her eyes softened as she spoke. “Your father and I haven’t decided on the best course of action yet. Right now, I want to see if you and Prince Odar are compatible. Having you married to someone from another kingdom—someone with wealth, power, and a strong army—is beneficial to Emperion. I’m trying very hard to be a good mother and a good ruler. Sometimes, it’s not as easy as you might think. I hope you can understand that.”

  Allyssa nodded, wanting to squeeze her hands out of her mother’s firm grip. Whenever the word marriage was used, it made her want to go running the other way.

  Darmik placed his hand upon his daughter’s shoulder, holding her in place. “We didn’t tell you about Prince Odar coming ahead of time because we were afraid of your reaction.”

  “If we had told you the first real potential suitor was arriving to make your acquaintance, you probably would have run away,” Rema said.

  If her parents had told her about Prince Odar’s arrival, she probably would have run away. After all, that had been her plan when she thought the prince from Telmena was coming.

  “Is there anything else?” Allyssa asked, trying to conceal the ire in her voice. Just because she was only sixteen didn’t mean her parents had to shield her from politics and the unpleasantries that came along with it any longer—especially if they felt she was old enough to marry.

  Darmik squeezed her shoulder and released her. “For now,” he said.

  “I don’t want you worrying,” Rema added, letting go of Allyssa’s hands. “Simply become acquainted with the prince and we’ll go from there.”

  Allyssa groaned. “Fine. I’ll dance and attempt to make conversation with him.”

  “And you’ll be nice,” Darmik added.

  At that, she rolled her eyes. However, she would be the perfect princess for her parents’ sakes. They wouldn’t request something of her that wasn’t necessary.

  “We need to be on our way,” Rema said.

  “Shall we?” Darmik asked, holding out his arm for his wife. The empress took it and they exited the suite, Allyssa not far behind.

  One foot in front of the other—that was all she could focus on right now. If Allyssa allowed herself to feel, she’d drown in her emotions. She just had to make it a couple of hours. Then, like she always did, she’d leave early and escape from this suffocating cage.

  ***

  Overdoing it was an understatement. Her parents had gone all out, transforming the Great Hall into a lavish room adorned with flowers and candles. Plates were piled high with food, wine was being passed around, and hundreds of guests seemed to be enjoying the feast. Allyssa was seated between her father and Neco to show she was valuable, watched, and guarded. She was thankful she wasn’t forced to sit next to the prince.

  When supper was over, everyone went to the adjoining room for dancing. It, too, was extravagantly decorated with hundreds of lit candles and flowers hanging from the ceiling. A large group of musicians played a lively tune. Darmik claimed Allyssa for the first song. With so many nobles present, she was going to have to stay later than she usually did. She sighed. It was going to be a long night.

  As Darmik spun her around the dance floor, she caught a glimpse of her mother dancing with Prince Odar.

  “Smile,” Darmik murmured as he dipped his daughter.

  “I’m trying,” she replied through gritted teeth, forcing herself to grin.

  He chuckled. “Come on,” he said. “This isn’t so bad. You act like we’re torturing you.”

  She looked pointedly at him.

  “Prince Odar is by no means ugly, and all accounts claim he is an intelligent man. At least give him a chance. He might surprise you.”

  “The only thing that would surprise me would be if he actually turned out to be intelligent.”

  “Allyssa, watch your tongue.”

  She laughed. “You can’t tell me someone who looks like that has a genuine thought in his head.”

  Darmik squeezed her hand. “You can’t tell me my daughter is so conceited and haughty to not even give him the benefit of the doubt.” He spun her around again. “All I’m asking is that you make an attempt to speak with him a couple of times. That way you can acquire a feel for his disposition.”

  She stared into her father’s warm brown eyes. He’d never asked her to become acquainted with a man before. She had known this day would come; yet, she wasn’t ready for it. Responsibility, duty to her kingdom, money—it was all overrated. Still, she loved her family, loved Emperion, and was in a position of power. She needed to take it seriously.

  Darmik leaned closer, speaking into her ear. “Prince Odar has requested the next dance.”

  She’d figured as much. “I would be honored to dance with someone so handsome and charming.”

  He kissed her cheek. “Try not to overdo it—it’s not very becoming.”

  Allyssa chuckled. For her father, she would be the perfect princess and speak cordially to the pretty prince. If only she could be herself, if only she could say what she wanted to instead of what she should, if only. … She sighed.

  The prince bowed next to her, a pleasant smile on his face. Darmik handed her over to the prince like a piece of property, and she tried not to cringe. She was a princess, elegant, refined, and all that the position implied. At least, that was what she kept telling herself. Because, truth be told, she hated being stuck in this castle, playing this game.

  Prince Odar took her hand and placed his free one on her lower back. A new song began, and they moved together to the beat. She kindly smiled, not in the mood to make pointless conversation. She was certain the prince was an expert in that area and didn’t need to practice with her.

  After a few moments, Prince Odar broke the silence. “Your castle is lovely,” he commented, his eyes sparkling in amusement.

  “Isn’t it?” Allyssa crooned. “I simply adore this home. We have several, all larger than this one. But I’m sure you already knew that.”

  He blinked several times before replying. “Yes, I did know that.”

  He spun her around, and she glimpsed several female courtiers staring at Prince Odar. They all batted their eyelashes at the young prince, hoping to entice him with their beauty, money, or position. But none of them came close to offering the prince what Allyssa did, and so his focus remained solely on her. Whoever she married would become emperor to this great kingdom, and thereby, the most powerful man on the mainland.

  “Is something the matter?” he asked.

  Shaking her head, she wanted to kick herself for her own stupidity
. She needed to stop being a selfish child and act like a princess. The fact was she had to marry, and she would not marry someone unworthy of ruling by her side. Her subjects deserved a just prince who would one day be an exceptional emperor.

  “What brings you to Emperion?” she asked.

  “I thought you knew.”

  “I want to hear your version of events.”

  He stared at her a moment, as if deciding what to tell her. He finally answered, “My parents asked me to pay you a visit. It seems we have a mutual enemy.”

  “Do we?”

  He nodded, his smile faltering.

  “And tell me, my dear Prince Odar, what do you want from Emperion?”  The music ended and she stopped dancing, waiting for his answer.

  The prince opened his mouth to respond when another gentleman approached, ready to claim her for the next dance.

  “Another time perhaps,” was all she said before turning to her new partner. The prince already had a line of ladies eagerly waiting to dance with him.

  After two dozen songs, Allyssa had had enough. Hoping to slip away unnoticed, she quickly made her way to the side door. She was almost there when Prince Odar’s squire pushed away from the wall where he’d been standing alone all evening.

  “Leaving so early?” he asked as he approached her.

  “I’m tired,” she lied, faking a yawn.

  “Yes, it must be exhausting to dance with so many eligible men.”

  Was he making fun of her? No one in the castle ever spoke to her in such an informal manner. And she didn’t care for his degrading tone either. “Is there something you want?” she demanded, in no mood to deal with him.

  He stood there with his hands clasped behind his back. “Prince Odar asked me to dance with you.” His lips curled as if the mere thought of spending any time with her was detestable.

  If he didn’t like her, perhaps he wouldn’t be careful with what he said, and she could obtain vital information from him. “Very well.” She gave him her hand. “I’ll dance with you.” She felt his calloused palm against hers as he led her back to the dance floor. He must spend a lot of time with his sword.

  “What is your name?” she asked.

  “Jarvik,” he answered. “I’m His Highness’s loyal squire.”

  He swung her around to face him, and they began dancing. Jarvik appeared to be a year or two older than she was. He wasn’t nearly as tall as the prince, but he was still taller than she was. Jarvik’s hair was dark, almost black like the night. He had broad shoulders, brown eyes, and freckles on his nose. Not handsome, but there was something interesting about him. They danced in silence, Jarvik making no attempt at conversation. They remained toward the edge of the dance floor, and Allyssa was grateful. She’d be able to easily reach the exit from there.

  “I suppose the prince wants your opinion of me?” she asked, breaking the silence.

  “He does,” Jarvik answered, his eyes keenly aware, dissecting every inch of her face.

  “Does he rely heavily on those around him to form his opinions?” She knew she shouldn’t be so forward, but she couldn’t help it.

  The squire bristled. “He listens to the opinions of those around him,” Jarvik answered in a clipped tone, “but he makes up his own mind on matters.”

  She smiled, certain she had offended him. This was the first conversation she’d enjoyed all evening. Jarvik didn’t want to be there any more than she did. It was time to get down to business. “Was Prince Odar sent here to acquire a bride?” she asked.

  His eyes narrowed, assessing her. “You’re rather bold,” he declared.

  “You have no idea.” The dance was a slow one, allowing them to easily converse.

  “I have some inclination. Not many princesses know how to use a sword and defend themselves. But I suppose you’ve learned because of your father’s background.” His tone was casual, not condescending.

  Although, he still hadn’t answered her question. Now he seemed to be baiting her. Allyssa smiled. “I learned to fight because I am going to be the empress of Emperion. That means I will be the leader of the greatest army. A competent ruler knows how to fight in order to lead his or her people effectively.” He spun her around a little too fast for her liking. “You didn’t answer my question.”

  Jarvik huffed. “Prince Odar is here at Emperion’s request.”

  “Why did he agree to come?”

  He studied her a moment before replying. “We would like to forge an alliance with Emperion. Fren is on the verge of being invaded by Russek, and the prince will do what needs to be done to protect his kingdom.”

  “Russek is threatening Fren?” she inquired. “I thought you had a larger army than they do. I didn’t realize you needed Emperion’s assistance.”

  Jarvik’s eyes flashed with anger, and he stopped dancing. “What game are you playing?” he demanded, holding her tightly.

  She shoved him away, and he let her go. “I’m not the one seeking an alliance to save my kingdom.”

  “You’re not?” he asked, raising his eyebrows. “If Russek invades Fren, Landania and Fia won’t be far behind. Then there won’t be any stopping Russek. They’ll crush your kingdom so fast that you’ll wish you weren’t so arrogant and pompous.”

  “Me?” How dare he say such a thing to her?

  He pointed at Allyssa. “You’re a spoiled little brat,” he declared. “A typical princess.”

  She started laughing. He had no clue. He’d made assumptions about her based on what he saw, and that wasn’t who she was at all. She was simply playing a part, and he had fallen for it.

  “You know nothing,” she said, seething with fury. “Now be gone before I make a scene in front of everyone here.”

  He smiled like he expected her to throw a tantrum. She wanted to wipe the degrading smirk off his face. What an arrogant bastard. Leaning forward, she whispered in his ear, “If you ever disrespect me again, I’ll kill you.”

  She spun around and came face to face with Marek. “Is everything all right, Your Highness?” he asked, staring daggers at Jarvik.

  “It is now,” she said. “Please escort me back to my bedchamber. I’ve had enough dancing for one evening.”

  He took her arm and led her from the room. She could have sworn she heard Jarvik laugh.

  “You’re shaking,” Marek commented when they were in the hallway.

  “Only because I hate that insufferable man,” she said.

  “The squire?”

  “Yes.” She hoped she didn’t see him any time soon because if she did, she would probably punch him.

  “I thought perhaps you were referring to Prince Odar.”

  “Why?”

  He shrugged. “When you danced with the prince, you had a fake smile. Then with the squire, you seemed yourself. When I saw you losing your temper, I came over as quickly as I could without tearing across the room.”

  They reached the Royal Chambers. “Did you have a chance to dance with Madelin?” she asked.

  His face reddened. “No. I’m on duty and not permitted to partake in the festivities.”

  “I’m sorry.” Her hand rested on the door handle to her bedchamber.

  Marek shook his head. “Don’t be. We all make sacrifices for our kingdom. Some are steeper than others.”

  This conversation had turned too heavy for Allyssa’s liking. “I’m going to turn in for the night.” And with that, she went into her room, closing the door behind her.

  ***

  “Can you believe this?” Grevik said, indicating the Fren soldiers in the tavern.

  No, Allyssa most certainly could not believe the pretty prince had brought so many men to Emperion with him. If they were all staying at the castle, then why were they here in this tavern of all places? She hoped no one recognized her.

  “Have you tried talking to your parents?” Grevik asked, abruptly changing the subject. He leaned forward, closer to her.

  She raised her eyebrows, wondering what he was specif
ically referring to.

  “Your profession,” he clarified.

  Allyssa smiled. If only he knew. She took having to go into the family business to a whole new level.

  She was just about to reply when Grevik said, “I was at the weekly announcement.”

  Allyssa gulped. He’d heard her speak? Did he suspect she was the princess? She couldn’t even look at him. If her identity was known, she’d never be able to sneak out to see Grevik again.

  “The princess is a pretty, young thing,” he continued. “Her hair was all done up fancy around her crown, she had beautiful eyes, and her dress probably cost more than my mum makes in a season.”

  It was amazing what elegant clothes and some dusting powder could do to improve a person’s looks. “Let’s go,” she said tersely, wanting to end this conversation and leave the stuffy tavern along with the Fren soldiers. Until this day, she’d never come this close to having her identity discovered.

  Grevik finished off his drink, and the two of them left the tavern. They headed toward the south end of town, keeping their eyes and ears open for trouble. Given the late hour, they were bound to run into something.

  Allyssa tugged her cloak around her, trying to ward off the cold air.

  “When I start working for the City Guard, and I can’t go out at night with you anymore, what will happen to us? Will you still visit me?”

  Allyssa wished she could see Grevik’s face, but it was hidden under his hood. “I don’t know,” she admitted. “I want to still make a difference.”

  Grevik grabbed her arm and stopped walking. “Lilly, you better not do this alone. That’s how my father was murdered.”

  “Don’t worry,” she said. “I won’t. Besides, I’ll be getting married one day and I doubt my husband will approve of my nightly escapades.”

  “Or you visiting another man, even if we’re only friends.” Grevik released her arm, and they resumed walking.

  Grevik was Allyssa’s one true friend. Someone who valued her for her person and not her position. She couldn’t imagine him not being in her life.

  “Until the time comes when we’re married, you are welcome to visit me. And I’d like the opportunity to come and see you. I know you say your parents won’t approve, but maybe if we told them—”