Chapter Seven
After the marriage ceremony in the ballroom, they were escorted to another hall, grander still, for the coronation of her new husband, Orionn.
Melody sat among strangers, her back straight, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. Her father sat nearby, yet even he felt distant in this moment. All eyes were on Orionn.
He stood like a god among mortals—still, silent, untouchable. His gaze swept across the room like a blade. She couldn't help but wonder how she was supposed to live with a man like that.
How do I gain the upper hand in a kingdom of wolves?
Her thoughts were interrupted when her name was called.
"Queen Melody, please come forward to crown the king."
She rose slowly, head high, and walked toward the altar. The weight of the crown in her hands felt symbolic, like the weight of her fate. She stepped before Orionn, who bowed his head slightly.
She placed the crown upon him without trembling.
The priest's voice rang out. "This is your king, Orionn of Kav, ruler of Tharenos."
The hall erupted in applause. Everyone rose and bowed—except her.
Melody remained standing, unbent, her chin raised. Her gaze met Orionn's. It was bold. Reckless, even. But she did not look away.
Weren't they equals now? The priest had called her queen, hadn't he?
She could feel Orionn's stare burn into her, but she did not flinch.
The coronation continued with music, formal dances, and an overwhelming cascade of rituals. Everything shimmered like a fairytale.
Then came the moment she'd been dreading.
"The king's first dance with his bride," the announcer declared.
Orionn appeared beside her without a word. He offered his hand, and she placed hers in his, trying not to recoil at the icy coldness of his touch. He led her onto the dance floor, his hand settling at the small of her back. She rested hers on his shoulder, resisting the urge to shiver.
They began to move to the music, eyes locked.
He stared at her like she was a puzzle he hadn't decided whether to solve or shatter.
Melody refused to look away. Her heartbeat thundered in her ears, but her face remained composed. She could sense he was testing her, waiting for her to fold.
But she wouldn't.
She wouldn't give him the satisfaction.
Orionn watched her closely.
She was scared—he could feel it pulsing off her in waves. But unlike most, she didn't hide behind sweet smiles or timid glances. No, she was staring him down. Challenging him.
It was… fascinating.
The fairy princess had claws, after all.
He wasn't sure if he liked it or if it annoyed him. Maybe both. Either way, she was not what he had expected. That made her dangerous—and interesting.
As the music faded and the dance ended, a new presence swept in.
"May I have this dance?" his father, Korvus, asked Melody, wearing a charming smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.
She nodded politely. "Yes, Your Majesty."
"Oh, don't call me that," Korvus said with a laugh. "I'm tired of titles. Just Korvus. Or father-in-law, if you like."
He glanced at Orionn. "Mind if I steal her for a moment?"
Orionn gave a stiff nod and walked off the floor. He needed a break from the noise, the rituals, and the eyes. He poured himself a glass of wine and leaned back against a pillar.
Nathan appeared beside him, mischief dancing in his eyes. "So," he said, "what do you think of your wife?"
Orionn took a sip. "She's fine."
Nathan laughed. "Just fine?"
Orionn gave him a look. "She's… interesting. That's all I'll say."
"Oh, come on. She's more than interesting. She's got fight, that one. I like her."
Orionn chuckled lowly. "Yeah. She's… entertaining."
Before Nathan could reply, a man approached with a deep bow.
"Your Majesty."
Orionn frowned. King Akornus. Melody's father.
"King Akornus," Orionn said, his tone guarded.
"I know we haven't had a chance to speak," Akornus began smoothly, "but I wanted to offer my congratulations. And briefly mention some matters of state."
Orionn raised a brow. "This isn't the time or place, King Akornus. We'll speak in court."
"Of course, of course. I only wished to mention there has been some unrest in the Mermaid Kingdoms. Rogue factions are stirring trouble. I thought it best to inform you directly."
Orionn nodded once, his expression unreadable. Noted.
Akornus bowed again and retreated.
Orionn watched him go, his thoughts shadowed. He did not trust the Fairy King—but for now, diplomacy demanded tolerance.
Back on the dance floor, Korvus spun Melody slowly. His touch was light, his smile smooth, but something about him unsettled her.
Earlier that day, she had caught him watching her—not with curiosity, but with something darker. Something predatory.
She danced gracefully, but her instincts stayed sharp.
There were many dangers in Tharenos.
And some of them wore crowns.