Chapter 36: The Snowfox's Rescue

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Faye gasped, wheezing. The air burned her lungs now that she was finally released from the suffocating grip. Any longer and she might have passed out, she realized.

The young woman coughed violently, rubbing at the bruises on her neck. The pain was nothing in comparison to the burning sting of humiliation. To display such weakness, especially in front of such weak opponents.. the thought had her gritting her teeth. Faye balled her hands into fists. As soon as her head cleared she was going to get these bastards. The world spun as she stumbled to her feet. Faye took a determined step forward, only to trip.

Her blurred vision cleared slightly, and her gaze fell down to the crumpled body beneath her. The unconscious body that had tripped her belonged to the boss of their little group.

So that’s how she was freed.

The other two men who had circled her were now distracted. They had their backs to her, choosing instead to focus on the figure who had saved her.

The masked stranger stood tall and lean. His silhouette practically blended into the shadows.

The mask was far from special, but it gave off a dangerous aura. Faye rubbed her eyes, trying to clear the dizziness, but her vision was still too hazy to focus.

“What do you think you’re doing!” one of the men growled, voice laced with a hint of caution.

Holding her pounding head, Faye could barely make out the words over the ringing in her ears.

“You sneaky bastard!” accused the second man, holding out his fists, ready for a fight. “Attacking us from behind!”

The figure stepped forward, kicking at their boss’ unconscious form. As the body rolled over, Faye could see the foam dribbling out of the fallen man’s mouth adding to his pitiful state.

Although, she felt anything but pity for the brute.

From the folds of his cloak, the stranger drew a dagger. The thing rays of moonlight caught the sharp edge, glinting coldly. Faye could tell instantly that it was a weapon well cared for. The metal was pure, unlikely to shatter or chip.

The two men faltered, fear creeping into their expression as they quickly backed away.

The smaller of the two rushed to grab Faye by the collar. With a rock in his other hand, he held it against her throat. Despite his false bravado, she could feel the hand tremble against her skin. “Don’t,” he stuttered, voice shaking. “Don’t come closer! This woman humiliated us.”

“Precisely!” added his partner. “This has nothing to do with you. Walk away!”

Faye winced as her captor dug the rock closer into the flesh. “Or else,” they threatened.

The stranger before them froze.

In a swift motion, Faye raised her elbow, driving it into her captor’s face. With a pained shout, the man staggered back, leaving just enough space for Faye to land a solid kick to his chest, sending him flying into the wall.

She clutched her throbbing head. It was like war drums were pounding in her skull. Shutting her eyes, she tried to block out the noise.

The last one left of the trio rushed at the masked figure. However, without the threat to Faye holding him back, the figure was able to deflect the attack. The masked man sidestepped, moving with efficient precision, and slammed the hilt of the dagger on the back of the man’s head. He collapsed in a single step, crumbling to the ground.

Now that the fight was over, Faye’s legs trembled. This was embarrassing. She opened her mouth to thank the stranger. “Thank you, good-“ Her legs gave out beneath her.

But a steady form caught her. Faye froze. Her back pressed up against a sturdy chest.

Her breath quickened, instinct flaring as she braced herself for another fight. But no attack came.

“What happened to you?” murmured a low voice, calm yet cutting through the fog of her dizziness. “Those men should have been nothing for you. I almost left.”

Faye swallowed hard. She lowered her head to her chest, red flushing her face. “It’s a long story.”

She exhaled slowly. The warmth of the body behind her was comforting.

The effects of the drugs the men had laced her drink with were beginning to fade. Now, she knew they were friends with the men who had harassed Asinara. Faye had to give it to them, it was quite an unexpected surprise. She had underestimated them.

The so-called apology and offer of a drink had been a clever trap. She had let down her guard, not expecting to be met with a desire for revenge… That was until they had dragged her out and she found herself unable to even count to five.

Two hands steadied her. Faye winced as they brushed against the bruises on her throat. “This is the first fight I’ve seen you lose.” The voice softened, almost as if in disbelief. “If you were anyone else, I’d tell you to stop picking fights you can’t win.”

Faye sighed. She leaned her head back and closed her eyes, surrendering herself to the sudden exhaustion.

Behind the mask, Nikolai’s eyes narrowed. His gaze settled on the dark, purple blotches that marred Faye’s throat. His stomach twisted, a roar of anger and disbelief churned within him.

He knew she was human like the rest of them but… for some reason, it was hard to believe that she could get hurt.

Nikolai flinched at the press of cold steel against his skin. He glanced down.

Faye stared at him with narrowed eyes, sharp and clear unlike before. She held his own dagger against him. The tip of the blade pressed against his neck softly, a silent warning.

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A single candle lit the dark meeting room. Shadows seemed to cling to the edges of the room, its design intentional. The room had been built for meetings like this, where the interrogators could maintain the upper hand when meeting with informants. The shadows concealed the layout and the hidden weapons which were always within arm’s reach.

The Hound peered at the courtesan in front of him.

The woman lowered her hood. Glittering, dark eyes lifted to meet the piercing stare head-on. Her face was pale, half illuminated by the flickering candlelight.

The hound strained his ears to hear her soft voice.

“I have information for the queen,” came the quiet explanation.

“So, I’ve heard.” He crossed his arms, considering the woman’s clothes and position. “And is there a price for this information?”

“Yes,” she said without hesitation. From her defensive stance, it was clear she had not come on a random whim. “Protection. For my sister.”

The Hound stroked his bear and hummed softly. Protection would be simple enough to secure.

“And safe passage out of the kingdom,” added the courtesan, more force behind her voice. “I wish for her to be sent away. The farther the better.”

“And what about for yourself?” asked the Hound, expression curious. It was rare for informants to not ask for their own protection

To his surprise, the courtesan merely shook her head.

Leaning back in his chair, the Hound’s expression darkened. “You ask for much. As for whether the crown can grant these requests.” The faintest flicker of impatience crossed his face. “That depends entirely on the value of your information.”

The courtesan straightened, determination blazing in her eyes. Her calm facade cracked. The man’s words had sparked the hidden desperation within her.

“The ice prince has been holding secret meetings in the Lucky Charm. Among those he treats with is Lord Langard.”

The air stilled as her words hung like an executioner’s blade, poised to fall and pass its judgment.

“I will tell you half now,” she continued sharply. “And the other half when my sister’s safe passage is secured.”

True to his training, the Hound’s expression betrayed nothing. This woman, regardless of whether her words were truth or lies, held dangerous knowledge. It was the sort of knowledge that could turn family against each other, the kind that led to civil war and the destruction of kingdoms.

“If the crown wishes to use this information at the court session,” the woman added, her voice faltering slightly. “I am willing to testify.”

Another pause stretched between them.

The Hound made his decision. The weight of her offer was a gamble worth taking. He knew such a valuable pawn would be greatly welcomed by the queen. For the courtesan’s sake, the Hound hoped that she was telling the truth.

“Very well,” he said at last. The Hound uncrossed his arms, rising to his full height. “Your sister will be protected.” He gestured towards the door. “In the meantime, let us continue this conversation in private.”

Harmon sighed in relief. The first part of her plan was accomplished. However, as she nodded, her arms raised to hug herself. A sudden chill crept over her, setting the hairs on the back of her neck on edge. But still, the woman nodded and followed the queen’s loyal servant. Her resolve only strengthened despite entering deeper into the labyrinth of lies and betrayal. This was for her sister. It was worth it.

Harmon hugged herself tighter, her steps faltering only slightly as the heavy door slammed shut behind with a defining finality.

As she entered the Hound’s private room, she could make out the faint streaks of moonlight breaking through the darkness.

Harmon dug her painted nails, the ones her sister had done for her just earlier, into pale skin, welcoming the painful reminder.

Dark clouds rolled over the sky, blocking the moonlight, but she barely noticed.

Anything for Elody, she vowed.

If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

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Despite having his own weapon used against him, Nikolai couldn’t help but smirk under the mask. At this point, he wasn’t surprised.

Faye’s gaze locked onto the mysterious mask, eyes clearer and more focused than before.

“You seem to know me,” noted Faye with a tone of interest, the dagger steady in her grip. “But I don’t know you.”

The masked figure remained silent.

With a sigh, Faye lowered the blade. Flipping it in her hand, she offered the hilt out to him. Without hesitation , he reached forward for the blade and slipped it back within the folds of his cloak.

“You work for Nikolai, don’t you?” An arrogant smirk tugged at Faye’s lips as she tapped her chin playfully. “You seem familiar, but I can’t place where we’ve met.”

The man shifted lightly, posture betraying a hint of hesitation. There was an awkward pause. “That is… quite observant.”

Faye stepped closer, rising on her toes, she reached forward for the mask. “I’m sure I’d recognize you without this.”

“No!” The figure recoiled, dodging back from her outstretched hand.

Faye’s playful expression dimmed. She lowered her hand, respecting his decision, but a flicker of suspicion clouded her face.

The air stilled between them

Finally, there was a long, exaggerated sigh. The masked man’s head snapped towards the pouting general.

“I see your lord still distrusts me,” the proud warrior scoffed. Faye brushed past the silent man, hating the sudden feeling of disappointment that filled her.

She stumbled. The woman sucked in a painful breath as pain erupted in her foot. During the scuffle, her ankle had rolled. Now, it buckled under her full weight.

“Stop,” a hand snapped out to steady her before she could topple over. “Let me walk you back, Lady Feldgrau.”

Faye shook off the hold, her pride smarting. “I’m grateful for your aid earlier but I can manage on my own.” Her shoulders straightened, eyes ablaze with a silent challenge. “I won’t cause any trouble.”

“You misunderstood, my lady,” said the masked man. “I am unfamiliar with the area, I fear I may lose my way.” He paused before adding almost abashedly. “Please.”

Faye hesitated, turning the explanation over in her mind. She glanced at the way the masked man stood stiffly, arms crossed defensively across his chest. What was his expression behind the mask like? Faye’s lips lifted into a mischievous grin.

“Fine.” A warm feeling bloomed in her chest as she reached over to punch the tense shoulders, laughing at the other’s wince. “What is your name?”

“My name?” The man faltered as if struggling to answer. “Uhm… it’s Malakai.”

“Malakai?” Faye tilted her head. “You don’t strike me as a Malakai.”

That earned her a chuckle from the masked man. “Then what name do you think suits me, my lady?”

Before she could answer, a black streak swooped down. With a loud call, the pitch-black bird landed on Faye’s shoulder. The raven pecked at her ear, earning an annoyed huff.

“Stop it, Mouse,” muttered the young woman. “I am thinking.” She tapped her chin in serious contemplation. “What about Mysterious Hero? Or Lord Mask Man?”

Although his eyes were hidden behind the mask, Faye could feel the other’s incredulous stare.

He held a hand to his mask, shaking his head in disappointment. “You are horrible at names.”

Faye waved a dismissive hand in the air. “I’m wonderful at giving names.” Stepping out onto the street the young woman beckoned him to follow. “Well? Come on!”

Her second step brought a sharp throb to her ankle. With a wide smile, Faye forced herself to step forward. She had been through worse, much worse. Experience had taught her. A few more steps and the pain would dull. On her shoulder, Mouse the Raven cawed, as if protesting the idea.

The masked man sighed loudly. As he approached, the bird shot him a beady-eyed stare before taking off into the air above them.

Without a word, he moved in front of her, blocking the path. Lowering himself into a squat, he planted his feet firmly on the ground, his undefended back open to her.

Faye stared, brows furrowing at the unusual position. “Did you injure your leg as well?”

Rather than respond, the masked man flung his arms back. He waved them in an exaggerated motion… like a squatting chicken. Smacking her hands over her mouth, Faye tried to stifle the laughter. “What… What are you doing?”

From his squatted position, the mask turned back to stare at her. “Come on,” he said, voice serious. “Get on.”

Faye’s face erupted into flames. She backed away quickly, waving her hands. “I couldn’t!” Even if he worked for Nikolai, this was too much. Faye couldn’t remember the last time someone had carried her. Maybe her brothers when she was a child, Faye thought hysterically.

Memories surfaced of being thrown over a shoulder or supported after a battle, but this was entirely different.

“I’m fine,” Faye insisted. She fought the ridiculous urge to cover her burning face, even though no one else was around to see the embarrassing scene.

The masked man hung his head, letting out a frustrated noise.

“I’m not getting up until you get on.” Although he shifted his weight, true to his word, the man stayed resolute in his stance.

Faye crossed her arms. “That is not happening.” She sidestepped to get around him, but a subtle dip in the road caught her off guard. Faye couldn’t help the dismay that fell over her. Her injured ankle twisted painfully as she stumbled.

Faye wanted to cry. Where had the fearsome war general gone? Had her stay in Eburean dulled her sharp senses so much?

Before she could muster another thought, strong hands caught her. In one swift motion, she felt her arms loop around broad shoulders.

“Hold on,” came the soft command.

Despite his lean frame, the masked man easily hoisted her onto his back. His arms locked firmly beneath her knees, steadying her as though she weighed nothing at all.

Face aflame, Faye muttered, “I thought you weren’t going to move.” Turning her head, her cheeks pressed against the warmth of the man’s back.

The masked man froze imperceptibly, but he merely adjusted his hold and continued forward. His voice broke the quiet night. “You are the most stubborn woman I’ve ever met.”

Faye couldn’t help the laugh that escaped her. “That’s like the tiger calling the wolf vicious.”

The late hour seemed to breathe with a rare peacefulness. The air was cool, and the starlight illuminated their path.

“Am I the tiger or the wolf, my lady?” asked the man.

Faye stifled a yawn. “Neither.” Her eyes gazed up to find a sliver of moonlight filtering through the buildings. “You remind me of a snow fox. Clever and quick, and…” Faye felt her eyelids grow heavy. Her voice grew softer. “Very cute and cuddly.”

The man strode forward with a quiet confidence. It seemed like he didn’t need her guidance after all.

“Hey, Snowfox,” she called out suddenly.

The man hummed in acknowledgment. As the silence returned, he wondered if she had fallen asleep.

Ahead of them, the gates of the Prince’s Residence loomed in the moonlight. The towering gates cast long shadows across the ground. They were close now, but Nikolai’s night was far from over. He sighed quietly.

“Here.”

The Lord of Feldgrau almost dropped Faye in shock. His eyes were wide as Faye dangled the jade ornament, his jade ornament, in front of him like a toy.

Faye’s voice broke through his shock, though her words slurred with exhaustion. “Snowfox,” Faye murmured with a faint smile, “hand this over to your liege when you get the chance. I think it might belong to one of his men.”

Nikolai stared, torn between relief and a whirlwind of unanswered questions. knew he shouldn’t ask. It was a miracle enough that the jade ornament had ended up in her hands. Yet, his mind raced. Did the ornament pass through other’s hands? Where exactly had she found it? Was it taken or had it been left behind?

“Why don’t you give this to him yourself?” Nikolai asked, forcing his tone to be stay even. Remembering his current identity, he hurried to clarify, “The lord, I mean.”

He could feel Faye shift slightly in his arms. “He would think that I stole it” she shook her head. “Or worse, that I was trying to blackmail him.”

Nikolai pursed his lips. “Is that how you see him?” He was genuinely curious. Just a few weeks ago that Faye had professed her admiration. Love, she claimed. Now, she seemed convinced of his mistrust.

“I admire Nikolai very much,” Faye admitted easily, professing such a statement like it was an undeniable truth. “I don’t blame him for doubting me . We are natural enemies.”

“It is unfortunate but…” Her voice trailed off before adding quietly “Sometimes I wonder… if I wasn’t who I am,” there was something vulnerable in the question, “do you think the lord and I could be friends?”

Steps faltering, Nikolai dragged his feet in the dirt. Her words struck something deep within him. “I think we-“ the ice prince cut himself off, choosing his next words carefully. “I think the lord would not… be opposed to that.”

“Would he love me, then?”

The question cut into the uncomfortable sphere of emotions that Nikolai felt extremely unprepared to face. Something he couldn’t face. Before he could summon a response, Faye saved him from answering.

“Ah Swowfox,” she said, suddenly cheerful and filled with energy. Nikolai winced as Faye patted his shoulder with unexpected strength. “You are so easy to talk to. Your lord should send you out as an interrogator!”

He allowed himself a faint smirk. “Oh?”

“Yes,” cheered Faye enthusiastically, tone brimming with excitement. “You are so easy to talk to, I think I would tell you all my secrets.” She pitched forward, nearly unbalancing the both of them. “Here’s a secret!” Amber eyes squinted at the side of his mask. Her voice fell into an conspiratorial whisper. “You know, I once recruited Rufus Langard to help me write a love letter to your lord.”

“You what?” Nikolai’s tone betrayed his disbelief. A part of him wondered if she had figured out his identity and was merely trying to trip him up. Was that really what they were doing during all her trips to the Langard residence?

“Yup,” said Faye, grinning impishly. “The dinner fiasco was his idea as well.”

Nikolai opened his mouth to retort but Faye beat him to it. Her expression was uncharacteristically wistful.

“I’ve never felt this way about anyone,” she admitted, shrugging helplessly.“Sometimes, I feel so much love for him I think I will explode. And other times…” her eyes glanced down and her shoulders drooped. “When I see him, I want to ride away in the night. Back to Wenge.” The young woman sighed, pouting.

Nikolai mulled over the words, the confession unsettled more than it should have. Despite his earlier threats, Faye could easily leave for Wenge whenever she desired. There was little truly stopping her. But he didn’t know why the thought suddenly bothered him.

“You know, Snowfox, I’ve always hated fighting losing battles.” Faye chuckled, the sound was as boisterous as she was. “I’m too arrogant for that.”

Nikolai shrugged. Out of anyone, Faye’s arrogance was well-earned. And he told her as much.

His response garnered a soft chuckle from the general, her laughter washing away the previous tension.

The rest of their walk continued in silence. The only sound was the soft crunch of footsteps on the dirt path. A chilly breeze swept through the air.

Nikolai stopped in front of the Prince’s Residence. His gaze lingered on the large wooden doors, an ancient legacy that towered over the both of them. A rare hesitation flickered in his normally cooly composed demeanor. “Faye,” he started. “The truth is, I’m actually-“

A loud snore interrupted his admission. Nikolai froze. He felt the weight of her head fall against his shoulder. He glanced back to find her dozing face. Her dark hair tickled the nape of his neck. Faye snored softly, her warm breath brushed lightly over his skin. For the oddest reason, the ice prince felt the tips of his ears grow warm.

Even in sleep, she clutched the jade ornament tightly. Her fingers curled protectively over the pendant protectively.

“My lord!” came the frantic shout. The heavy gates were hurriedly shoved open revealing Cristin with Darcy close behind.

Nikolai’s expression turned cold, his sharp glare pinned Cristin in place. He gestured to the sleeping general on his back. Thankfully, the loud noise had not woken her up.

Cristin’s jaw dropped. What was this crazy sight before his eyes? Was this really their stoic ice prince, carrying the mighty Raven General, asleep no less? The attendant wanted to scratch his head as his mind struggled to process the absurd image. How did the two even end up together?

Darcy stepped forward quietly. His movements were careful as he reached for the sleeping general.

“Careful,” murmured Nikolai, gaze fixed on the young woman. “Bring her inside. Don’t wake her.”

Darcy’s dutifully loyal side showed as he nodded without question. He lifted the general from Nikolai’s back. She stirred slightly but remained asleep. Darcy carried her into the residence.

Nikolai watched them go, expression unreadable until they disappeared behind the heavy wooden doors.

Cristin was less composed.

“By the gods!” he exclaimed, throwing his hands in the air. “What was that, my lord? You and the general? I don’t even understand how the two of you were able to meet up? Wait, weren’t you at the Lucky Charm? Was she there too?” His questions came in rapid succession, each filled with disbelief.

Cristin looked up, only to gape as the lord was already walking away. The ice prince was speed walking, practically running, as his long strides carried him into the residence and away from Cristin’s lecture.

“Hey!” called the attendant, voice brimming with exasperation. “I want, no I need answers, my lord!” He jogged after the taller man. “Come back here!”

The holler echoed, shattering the former peace of the quiet night.