Crown of Shadows

Chapter 16-Aelin

The next morning, I woke up feeling more content than I had in a long time. The events of the previous night played over in my mind, and I couldn't help but smile as I remembered the time I spent with Kodlak in his chambers.

As I got ready for the day ahead, I couldn't shake the feeling of happiness that seemed to surround me.

Heading out into the Keep, I caught sight of Lyra shooting me a dirty look, but I brushed it off, refusing to let her dampen my spirits. Today was a new day, and I was determined to make the most of it.

Making my way to the training grounds, I found Kodlak waiting for me, a smile on his face. We exchanged a quick greeting before launching into our training routine, each movement feeling effortless and natural.

As we sparred, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride at how far we had come. Kodlak and I were becoming a formidable team, and I knew that together, we could accomplish anything.

After our training session, Kodlak suggested we take a walk around the Keep, and I eagerly agreed. As we wandered the halls, I found myself feeling more at home than I ever had before.

As we walked together, hand in hand, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. Kodlak and I had grown closer over the past few months, and now, we were more than just friends and comrades—we were partners.

I looked up at him, feeling a surge of affection. "I'm so glad we're together, Kodlak," I said, smiling up at him.

He squeezed my hand gently, his brown eyes warm and reassuring. "Me too, Dove," he said, his voice soft but filled with sincerity. "I couldn't imagine my life without you."

I felt my heart swell with emotion as I leaned into him. Together, we continued our walk.

We continued our stroll through the courtyard, enjoying the peaceful morning. The sun had risen higher in the sky, casting a warm glow over everything.

"I have something I want to show you," Kodlak said, a mischievous twinkle in his eye.

I arched an eyebrow, intrigued. "What is it?"

He grinned, leading me towards a secluded corner of the courtyard. There, hidden among the trees, was a beautiful garden, bursting with colorful flowers.

"Oh, Kodlak, it's beautiful," I exclaimed, feeling a surge of delight.

He smiled, looking pleased with my reaction. "I thought you'd like it," he said, wrapping his arm around my waist.

We spent the morning exploring the garden, enjoying each other's company and the beauty of our surroundings. As we walked, I couldn't shake the feeling of contentment that filled me.

"This place is perfect," I said, leaning into Kodlak's side.

He smiled down at me, pressing a kiss to my forehead. "Just like you, Dove," he said softly.

I felt my cheeks flush at his words, and I leaned up to kiss him, grateful for the love and happiness that filled my heart.

As we wandered through the garden, Kodlak showed me his favorite spots and told me stories about the plants and flowers.

"Dove, there's something I want to give you," Kodlak said suddenly, his tone serious.

I looked at him, curious. "What is it?"

He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, delicate necklace. It was a silver chain with a single crystal pendant that caught the light and sparkled like a star.

"It belonged to my mother," Kodlak said, handing it to me. "She always said it brought her luck and protection. I want you to have it."

I took the necklace, feeling overwhelmed by the gesture. "Kodlak, I... I don't know what to say," I stammered, touched by his thoughtfulness.

"Just say you'll wear it," he said, his eyes searching mine.

I nodded, tears pricking at the corners of my eyes. "Of course I will," I said, slipping the necklace around my neck and holding it close to my heart.

Kodlak smiled, a warmth filling his eyes. "Good," he said, pulling me into a hug. "Now let's enjoy the rest of our day together."

We spent the rest of the day exploring the garden, laughing and talking as if we didn't have a care in the world. The necklace felt like a weight around my neck, a constant reminder of Kodlak's presence and the depth of his feelings for me.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to the Keep, hand in hand. The evening air was cool, but I felt warm and content beside Kodlak.

As we reached the entrance, he turned to me, his eyes shining in the fading light. "Thank you for today, Dove," he said softly. "I'll never forget it."

I smiled, feeling a surge of happiness. "Thank you for everything, Kodlak," I replied, squeezing his hand. "I'll never forget today either."

With that, we said our goodbyes and went our separate ways.

As I entered the building, I noticed Phantom leaning against the wall. Startled, I hesitated for a moment, but then composed myself and greeted him.

"Hello, Phantom," I said, trying to sound confident.

He returned the greeting with a nod, his piercing gaze fixed on me.

"You and Kodlak seem to be close," he remarked casually.

I nodded in agreement, unsure where this was leading. Phantom paused for a moment before suggesting we walk together. As we strolled through a dimly lit hallway, he spoke, his tone serious.

"You need to focus and not let any distractions weaken your resolve," he advised.

Before I could respond, he surprised me by instructing me to try to land a blow on him to test my skills. I was taken aback but decided to comply, attempting to strike him. However, before I could make contact, Phantom swiftly caught my wrist in his vice-like grip.

"Your slacking." He muttered.

I winced as pain shot through my arm. I attempted to suppress any sign of weakness, but it was futile. With a quick, precise movement, Phantom twisted my wrist, and I heard the sickening sound of bones breaking.

Struggling to contain my agony, I clenched my teeth, refusing to cry out. Phantom covered my mouth with his hand, his voice barely audible as he spoke.

"This is just to get your attention, Princess," he whispered. "Weakness is not an option."

I nodded, trying to focus past the pain. I forced myself to remain calm, determined not to let this setback deter me.

Phantom released his grip, and I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. M

"I'm sorry.." I managed to say, my voice slightly strained from the pain.

Phantom nodded, his expression unreadable. "You have potential, Aelin," he said, his voice firm. "But you need to harness it, control it. Your enemies won't show you mercy, and neither will I."

I nodded, understanding the gravity of his words. This world was harsh, and I needed to be stronger if I wanted to survive.

"Understood," I replied, my voice determined.

Phantom nodded in approval. "Good. Now, let's get that wrist looked at. I'll take you to the infirmary."

Phantom led me to the infirmary, and I sat down as he examined my wrist. He pressed it gently, and I winced, the pain still fresh.

"It's just a sprain," he said, his voice calm. "Nothing serious, but you should be more careful."

I nodded, grateful that it wasn't as bad as I had feared. "Thank you," I said, relieved.

Phantom just nodded, his expression serious. "Remember, Aelin, weakness is not an option. You need to be strong, especially in times like these." He said, a dark light flashing in his eyes.

"I understand," I replied.

With that, Phantom left the infirmary, leaving me to ponder his words. I guess he was right. In this world, strength was everything, and I needed to be stronger if I wanted to survive.