17 Chapter Seventeen

Robbin's POV

Three weeks later...

Even though the world around me moved so fast, my mind processed everything slowly, to the point where my head was spinning. Literally. The way everything felt was unnatural. Riding a dragon felt saner than this. Hell, everything did.

I can hear Alec's reassuring voice beside me, however, there may have been a hint of fear within his words. This was normal for him. The same normal when shifting into his wolf form or waking up in the morning. For me, this was foreign.

"Robbin you need to calm down." Alec soothed as he placed his hand on my shoulder, the other gripping something else.

"I can't. This has to stop. Alec, I want to stop!" I cried out, although there weren't any actual tears. Only desperation.

"We're almost done, just hang on a little while longer."

"Please just make it stop!" I begged.

"Robbin hit the breaks!"

"I don't know how!" I answered back truthfully. Nothing in this death trap makes any sense. There was an endless number of buttons everywhere, some I'm sure did nothing at all. I'd press them, but the fear of not knowing what they do constantly crept into my mind.

"Press down on the left pedal! We've been over this."

I slammed my foot down on the pedal, causing the car to halt entirely; both of our bodies involuntarily being shoved forward from the force. Luckily, our seatbelts prevented any damage.

As I collected the short breaths that poured out of my mouth, Alec placed his hand on a small stick that lay between us and pushed it up until it landed on the letter P. "Turn the key."He told me.

Right. You turn the key to turn the car on and off. I twisted it and the car shut off. Thank the gods. I don't know why I agreed to these driving lessons when I have a perfectly fine dragon awaiting my call at any time of the day.

"Well," Alec spoke again, "The good news is your driving is improving."

"And the bad news?" I asked, wiping a few strands of hair from my face, and took the last of my quickened breaths as they now have calmed down.

"It's not by much."

"I figured." I release a sigh of relief since this was one of my lessons where I didn't crash the car into a tree. Or the entry gate to the palace. Or Grey. But that's the bright side...right?

Alec and I exit the car, neither of us wanting to give it another go. "It's going to get late soon. We should head inside."

"I'll be there in a few," I replied. "I'm going to go for a walk."

"Alright." and with that, Alec headed for the palace doors, but not before passing Xander who patiently waited for the lesson to end. He walked over to me with one intention on his mind, but I wasn't going to give him what he wanted.

I turned and headed in the opposite direction, but he moved quicker than I did and caught my arm. "Don't run away from me." He demanded.

"I was not running." I indifferently responded.

"Fine. Don't walk away from me." Xander lightly tugged on my arm, but the feeling from his calloused hands was rough as he guided me back to the palace. "Come with me."

"No. I want to be alone so let me be." I tugged at my arm but failed to release it from his grip.

"I'll be quick. I just want to be inside of you again." His blunt speaking didn't affect me anymore, especially since it's been like this for the last few weeks. However, it did still disgust me. I pulled myself away from his hold and walked away from him.

"You can't avoid me forever, little dragon," Xander shouted as the distance between us grew with my steps.

I know that. I thought to myself.

I headed west on the palace grounds, beyond the western training center to where Phoebion and Sereion rested. To Mystic Lake. The very same place where I first arrived months earlier. Well, more like crash-landed.

The lake is beautiful, spreading wide around the edge of the Northerner kingdom, almost spilling into the Tensa Ocean. It's surrounded by thin, yet towering pine trees that illuminated the area beautifully, but naturally gave it an eerie feeling. This is it. This is where the coronation will take place.

Xander told me that the Luna and Alpha of this kingdom have always been coronated here, where the power of the full moon was the strongest. Even though dragons are the only presence here at the moment, tomorrow everything will be hectic.

We're preparing for guests from all over the four kingdoms, with an estimated arrival of two thousand people. Werewolves, dragon blood carriers, sirens, and macers are going to bear witness of an important moment in history. The bond between the Northerner and Westerlie kingdom will forever be sealed. No pressure whatsoever.

I look over across the lake where Phoebion, Sereion, and a few other newly arrived dragons are resting. Going for a fly seems like a great idea, especially now with all of the stress, but I defer for an alternative.

I set myself down on the grass, overlooking the lake and all the beauty it has to offer and contemplate the last three weeks. Three entire weeks of hell I should say.

Lilliana has been helping me rehearse my coronation vows, although they seem more like a prayer. Xander is allowing me to use the Westerlie royal vows as well, which makes me happy, to say the least. We are joining our countries after all. Other preparations included getting pin-stabbed by my tailor as she poked me thousands of times during my dress fittings. But the small suffering was worth it since my outfits came out surprisingly well.

The cherry on top of this was Xander's constant smothering. Ever since that night, we shared a bed together-naked that is-he's been coming back for more, or at least trying to. What happened between us was a moment of desperation. I needed the relief from the pain and he needed...well relief. But even so, it doesn't stop a mate bond from being fully completed.

Having sex with Xander is the last thing on my mind. The stress of the coronation has left no room for playtime with my mate. Not that that's what I want. Hell, I don't know anymore.

I distract myself from my wavering thoughts by looking up at the sky. Luckily, I wasn't needed for anything since everything worth doing was left for tomorrow. Tomorrow. The day this nightmare becomes reality. I never thought my life after imprisonment would turn out like this. So...confusing. The queen of a foreign country. Mate to a man with no morals.

The sky was beautiful and the clouds danced with the light one final time before it set. I entwined my fingers together and held them under my chin.

My thoughts transferred over to Vision. We were the greatest duo the five kingdoms had ever seen. The way we moved together, it was like time itself had stopped and we were connected to the same heart.

Our bond was stronger than anything, even a mates bond. My family would say the same thing about their dragons. We're connected to them in a deeper way than werewolves are with their own.

Suddenly, the grass behind me began to crunch, but I already sensed who it was. Fur cascaded across my back as Xander's wolf rubbed himself against me. Great. I thought to myself. Another Xander who needs attention.

I turn my face slightly and get a glimpse of his large form, almost completely disappearing into the setting around us as the sky grew darker; his vibrant blue eyes giving himself away.

"Go away," I said, looking up to the sky once more. A low growl left his body, specifying is the dislike for my not wanting him. I get it. I do. The power of a mate bond is powerful. It pulls two people together and interlaced like, well like my fingers.

I look down at my hands that were still locked together. This is how we should be. It is, yet we're not. Maybe their moon goddess got it wrong. This can't be how she wanted things to turn out. An alpha king mated to a dying dragon. What a depressing story.

I felt Xander nudge me with his snout and I'm brought back to my unfortunate reality. I look back at him and bring my hand to my face. Neither of us asked for this, yet, despite how small or inappropriate, Xander has at least tried to connect with me. Even if was purely physical, he wanted me, and I pushed him away due to my hatred. When did I become so spiteful?

"You remind me of Vision." I unknowingly spoke out loud. I look away from him, not wanting to continue the conversation, but that would just be me cowering away again.

"I mean," I continue, "You both always want attention. It's like one thing isn't enough for you guys. Always calling on me at random times of the day for affection, not thinking about the tasks I'm doing or the..." I drown myself out. What was supposed to be a quick compliment turned into small insults?

"Sorry." I apologized. There were a few spaces of silence before I spoke again. "But he was strong-willed, just like you. He was so special to me. Oh, you should've seen us, Xander. The way we flew, it was like we weren't two separate souls. We were one."

I felt my eyes burn slightly with the tears rising to the surface but I ignored them.

"He was my child. My best friend."

There was a small sniff from my side and a smile grew on my face.

"My best friend," I said again, but it was meant for only me to hear. I felt a hot tear slid down my face and quickly swatted it away. I've spent the last century crying for Vision's return. No point in doing it all over again. Not when I have a chance of getting him back. I need to be strong for him, myself, and this country.

Abrupt footsteps echoed on the ground, causing Xander and me to survey the area. Alec was running towards us with a worried expression. What the hell is it now?

"Alec, what's wrong?" I ask as I rose from my seated position, as well did Xander, but remained in his wolf form.

"Robbin, I need to bring you back to the palace."

"Why? Just tell me what's happening."

When Alec didn't speak, a terrible feeling grew within me, the misery on his face not helping me understand whatsoever.

"Alec for the love of gods just tell me!" My voice rose as well as my impatience.

"Its Vision."

"What?"

"Something's happened to vision."

The Next Day

I've barely slept all night. How was I even expected to? With the news, Alec brought, no one in their right mind would be okay with that. It was just so, so unexpected. I just thought I had more time, but it seems that's the one thing we'll never have.

Vision's stone is chipping.

Lilliana and Olympia are helping me prepare for Queen coronation. The first of the two happening today. I'm glad Lilliana is here, but I'm even more grateful for my family's arrival a few days ago. Without them, bearing the news would've been impossible.

Xander's been helpful, somewhat. He tried consoling me last night, which didn't necessarily help, but I'm sure pushing him away when I needed comfort wouldn't have helped us. He wrapped me in his arms and told me to sleep, but I couldn't bring myself to. Now, here I am with a weary face in a leather suit.

That might be the only enjoyable thing about today. My coronation outfit. I was never one to wear a dress during my princess days, especially anything too bright. My taste in clothing has always been very monochromatic. And for the last three weeks, we've been working on my ideal look for today's event. An all-black leather suit with gold detail around the neckline and cuffs. They're the colors of the northerner kingdom.

But since I am Westerlie born citizen, I asked for a dark red dragon scaled cloak attached by a gold chain across my shoulders to signify both countries. As for my luna coronation, I'll be wearing the traditional white hooded robe with a red rope tied around me.

"You look beautiful Robbin," Olympia said, tiding the hem of my cloak.

"She's right. Oh, Sage is going to be so jealous." Lilliana mischievously chuckled out. If Vision weren't on my mind, I'd tell her not to mention that mutt around me again.

"Whose Sage?" Asked Olympia. Lilliana was about to answer, but I cut her off. Not hearing about anything that's doesn't matter is on my agenda for today. And kind of for the rest of my days.

"She's irreverent. Is everything completed? May I look now?"

"Hold on." Olympia quickly said as brushed down on the scales of my cloak with her hand to give it a sharper appeal. "Okay. Bring the mirror." She called out to one of the omegas tasked with helping me get ready.

Two women brought out a large floor length mirror and placed it in front of me, then bowed and took their leave. My outfit was stunning, head to toe. My hair as well, being tied and woven into beautiful braids. I looked at the role of a queen. Now it's time to act like one.

"We're ready Robbin. Shall I notify Xander?" Asked Lilliana, fixing a few strands of hair from my head. I was ready, right? I certainly looked ready. As well did the thousands of guests waiting for me down the hall. Physically, I was. But mentally? I was giving up so much for this.

"Robbin? Are you ready?" Olympia placed her hand on my shoulder and looked at me with worried eyes. She must've sensed my uneasiness.

"No, not yet," I mumbled. I just need a few more moments of...what exactly? Maybe normality. Then again, I've never been a normal person. My life has been a long unpredictable journey. I'm surprised something like this hasn't happened sooner.

"Do you want me to get dad?"

"No. Just, get out. Everyone out!" I demanded although it sounded more like a plea. Lilliana and Olympia gave me concerned looks, but I didn't waste any time shoving them out of the door, along with the omegas who left instantaneously from my command.

They tried to speak, but I slammed the door before they could bargain with me. Shit. This is happening. It's one thing to say you'll do something, but another when it's happening.

I rested my back on the door, taking my final moments. Because once I walk out there, there won't be any going back. I can never get my old life back. My home, my family...my Vision will all be foreign to me. And with my focus on my new title, there won't be any room to save him, which according to the physician, can only happen within the next month. Which means...

"Robbin." Xander's voice startles me, causing an instinctive jump away from the door. "Open the door."

"N-no."

"I don't think I can do this."

"Don't be ridiculous Robbin. Now either come out or I'm coming in."

I felt the door handle rumble from Xander's violent grasp. My back pressed harder against it, not wanting to break the barrier between us. "I'm serious Xander." My words shook out of my mouth. The news of Vision was affecting me more than I need it to.

Xander's attempts to break in fell flat, the rattling seizing entirely. I heard a sigh from beyond the door, followed by his words. "There's nothing we can do. There's nothing you can do Robbin. Running to his aid won't wake him. Please think about the bigger picture."

"Becoming your queen is not big-"

"Yes, it is!" His words cut mine off, not wanting to waste any time. "This has always been the bigger picture. You're about to be a queen, now act like it. Because if you don't, this kingdom will fall. The rogues won't hesitate to move in, and maybe this time, no one makes it out alive."

I didn't want to listen to him, but he spoke the truth. He always had. Xander always knew what tool priority, and at this moment, Vision isn't that. These people are. They're who I need to focus on. Something has to be...let go.

I can feel the hot tears stream down my face as I let the truth sink in. Xander hasn't said a word, and neither have I. We simply stood there, with nothing but an oak door standing in the way of my fate.

"Robbin please talk to me." His voice snapped me out of my thoughts. It's time. A choice has to be made. It will be made.

I exhale deeply and turn to face the door and rest my head against the wood. "Please wait for me at the altar."

"Let me see you first." He pleaded.

"No. I need to fix myself," I spoke truthfully. "Just go, I'll see you in a few."

"Okay." Was all he said before a trail of footsteps ascended down the hall.

I take a long pause before walking away from the door and stand in front of the mirror. My makeup has not been ruined by my foolish behavior. I gently wipe away the tears from my face with a small piece of cloth before scanning myself once more. It's time.

I turn and head for the door, opening it quickly so I won't be tempted to wait any longer, or run away. Four guards waited outside the room for me and I gave them a small nod indicating I was ready. We head down the long hallway, each step surprisingly becoming easier than the last. I can do this. This sacrifice is worth it.

We come to the end of the hall, two enormous double doors waiting to be opened. The guards pushed them open;my last free breath escaping my lungs as they did.

Before we stood a worldly crowd of people, eager to see the Northerner kingdom's new queen. I tried my best not to look at any of them though. My gaze was set on Xander. Walking towards him was the only thing that kept me moving. I knew if my gaze fell elsewhere, I'd begin to question this again. So I stared. Not with fear, but with strength. A queen is strong, so that's what I'll be. For my people.

We reached the altar where Xander, along with Gus and my family stood waiting for me. My fixated study on him was broken when the kingdom's archbishop extended his hands for me to take the royal orb and scepter.

I grab them and hold each in both hands, then turn to face the crowd. The stared at me with hungry eyes, taking in the lost princess for the first time. The world hasn't seen much of me since I was brought back into the world. They must be curious as to why a former traitor to the Westerlie throne and family would become the Northerner kingdom's queen. Now that is quite the guessing game.

"Robbin Khali Drakon," the archbishop spoke over the silenced crowd before us. "Princess of the Westerlie kingdom. Dragon Rider of the unbreakable dragon fleet. You stand before us and submit yourself to the Northerner throne. To become the true queen and mate to Xander nightwalker. You may now recite the royal vows."

Without hesitation, I opened my mouth and delivered my oaths.

"Spirit of the wolf.

You who wanders the wildlands.

You who stalks the silent shadows.

You who runs and leaps

Between the moss-covered trees.

Lend me your primal strength.

Teach me to relentlessly track my desires.

And stand tall in defense of those I love.

Show me the hidden paths and moonlight fields.

Fierce spirit.

Walk with me in my solitude.

Howl with me in my joy.

And guard me as I move through this world

As Queen of the Northerner kingdom."

Not a word was spoken in the audience as I delivered the Northerner vows. And from there on, like tradition, I recited the Westerlie oath.

"Great guardian of the heart.

I call on your passion and speed.

Grant me the wildness of dancing flames,

And the flowing heart of melting stones.

Help me see deep into the mysteries

Hidden deep in the fire,

And flicker brightly on the treasure

Offered by this world.

Curl within the forge of my heart

Until the times comes to lift

Your head and breathe flame

Against the darkness.

Sky above me.

Earth below me.

Fire within me."

"If anyone does not see that Robbin Drakon is fit to be the queen of the Northerner Kingdom, speak now." Questioned the archbishop.

Not even as much as a breath was heard throughout the room. The merging of the Westerlie kingdom has never happened in history. I doubt anyone here would want to change such a historic moment.

"Then I declare Robbin Drakon queen of the Northerner kingdom." the man motioned for me to kneel and I did. Seconds later, my crown was placed on my head. I rose from my position and once again faced the crowd.

"Queen Robbin Khali Drakon. Long may she reign." his voice boomed off the walls, notifying the four kingdoms of the newest world leader. Me.

"Long may she reign." responded the Northerner kingdom natives. Of course, no one else spoke, for I am not their queen.

Yes, long may I reign. If only they knew of my fate.

------------------------------------------------------

Hours have passed since my queen coronation. The ballroom was filled with joyous and curious people. Others held skepticism of my new title. One's past will always be brought up in times of succession. That itself cannot be helped.

Xander stood by my side as we greet other world leaders such as the king of the Easterlie kingdom, Orion Weldon, and their queen, Dawn Weldon. They seemed eager that the monarch of the Northerner kingdom was not run by only a king.

There were macers from the southerner kingdom who gave me indifferent looks. Luckily none of them approached me, or I'd have to explain to them how I left the island. They must be okay with it since not once did they contact me or my family about my freedom.

The later it got, the more it seemed everyone partied. Midnight was approaching quickly and I needed to change into my luna coronation robe. This coronation will be strictly for the Bloodmoon pack members, which was around five hundred werewolves, excluding any guards.

Lilliana and Olympia helped me change into my next attire and we headed to Mystic Lake to begin the Luna ritual.

The dragons that once rested there last night were now flying above us, giving every pack member a chance to bear witness of their new luna. Olympia walked me down the parted aisle of people, everyone looking directly at me. I remained composed though. Weakness cannot be shown in front of the wolves who will now look up to me.

Well, almost everyone. As we approached Xander once again, I spotted Sage among a group of just as wicked looking wolves giving me distasteful looks. Sage, however, tried her best to hide it, but the eyes never lie, and hers were filled with pure hatred.

I stood next to Xander and the pack elder who would perform the ceremony at the edge of the water and faced the Bloodmoon pack, everyone looking as tough and fierce as their reputation precedes them. Once the crowd was completely silent, the pack elder spoke out to them.

"Bloodmoon Pack of the Northerner kingdom. Today we will not only gain a queen but a new luna, one who will be the bridge between our neighboring kingdom." the man turned to me with a knife in his hand and looked up at the sky, me following in suit. "The moon has risen to its highest state. Let us begin." He handed me the knife and I recited the luna prayer.

"Mother goddess lend me your light.

Give me your power on this faithful night.

I invoke you into my being and soul.

Fill up my vessel and make me whole.

I stand before you in awe and love.

I cherish the gifts you send from above.

I ask you tonight to show to me.

My mother, my goddess, so mote it be."

Once the prayer was finished, I slashed the palm of my dominant hand, and the blood leaked into the lake.

"Bloodmoon pack, I present to you Robbin Drakon, your new luna." Xander voiced to everyone, causing an uproar of howls and cheers from everyone. He grabbed my bleeding hand and wrapped a cloth around it. I looked up to him with a powerful expression, one only a ruler would wear, and he did the same.

The day I've dreaded the most since my arrival here has finally come and passed. Now let us see how long this game lasts.