The Man In Grey

There was a gentle knock on the door, causing Serenity to stir from her deep sleep. The noise seemed far away from her ears, but it was persistent so she rolled over to look at the bedchamber door that was shut. Before she could speak the door opened a crack and Mason's voice spoke gently.

"Serenity," he called.

Serenity frowned. Part of her wished it was not time to wake up. She had been dreaming of Theron and his tenderness. She did not wake from that dream as it was the only time she saw him. The only time she felt his love again.

She sat up slowly on the bed. "Yes," she groaned as she stretched.

She held the sheets tightly to her chest, covering her naked body.

"There is a maid here for you."

Serenity nodded even though Mason could not see her. He remained standing behind the door so not to invade her privacy.

"Serenity?"

"Yes," she said quickly with a yawn. "Please send her in."

There was shuffling in the hall, then the door opened wider and a maid marched in with a garment bag thrown over her arm and a sewing kit swung over her shoulder. Serenity frowned slightly as the woman entered. Mason did not appear and closed the door behind the maid.

"Hello," Serenity greeted the maid. She was an older bird, most likely a falcon or another bird of prey. She had dark brown skin and amber eyes. Her black hair was pushed back from her brow by a thick head band and fell down her shoulders and back in thick matted dreadlocks. There were wisps of gray hair intertwined in her dreadlocks.

"Milady," the maid bowed her head. She stared at Serenity for a long time with curious amber eyes. She seemed hesitant as if she did not want to help Serenity.

"You drew the short straw?" Serenity asked with a small smile.

The maid looked Serenity over curiously, as if trying to read her and determine what sort of attitude she could have with Serenity. Could she speak her mind or should she keep her thoughts to herself?

"It's alright to be distrustful of me," Serenity added. The maid did not respond. "What is your name?"

"Flo," she replied.

"Short for Florence?"

The maid's amber eyes flashed for a moment. Serenity bit her bottom lip with regret. "No, just Flo."

"Very well, Flo," Serenity said standing up out of the bed. She grabbed a robe that was hanging on the back of a chair next the bed and pulled it on over her naked body. "I'm told I must look my best for His Majesty."

"A woman should always look her best for any man," Flo responded as she moved across the room to the wardrobe. She opened the double doors to the wardrobe carefully with one hand to reveal a pedestal surrounded by mirrors. She hung the garment bag on a hook on the back of the door and placed her sewing bag on the floor by the pedestal.

Serenity frowned slightly as she wondered over to the wardrobe. She knew that many people placed a great amount of value on her appearance. Because Serenity had spent such a long period of her life being valued strictly on her beauty –and sexuality—she knew its value. She herself did not place much worth in it, but she knew others did. Her appearance was just a tool, like any other, for her to use to survive. Though, she wasn't sure how useful it would be in the Nest as Lord Carter had told her that the Crowned Prince was not attracted to women.

Flo opened the garment bag slowly and the shimmering black material in it caught Serenity's eyes. She stepped forward in surprise at the breathtaking dress Flo pulled out of the bag. She gripped the hanger and held it in front of her body so Serenity could view it entirely. It was a floor length black gown that was made of a glossy liquid-like material. As the material moved it shined in the sunlight streaking in through the balcony curtains. Serenity stepped forward.

"May I?" she asked stretching out her hands as she looked Flo in the eye.

Flo nodded. "It is for you."

Serenity touched the dress gently. The material was smooth, like leather, but light weight and soft. Serenity looked from the dress to Flo again. "For me?" Flo nodded again looking annoyed. "From who?"

"The Crowned Prince. He asked that you wear it to dinner."

Serenity stood up straight, releasing the dress and frowning deeply. She did not like that the prince was requesting her to wear something specific to dinner.

"Does the Crowned Prince always request his dinner guest to wear clothing he sends them?"

Flo shrugged. "I was told to bring the dress to you and ensure that it fits properly. If there is an issue with a dress, do not wear it." There was an air of indifference to her tone that Serenity appreciated.

Serenity smiled. "There isn't an issue with the dress."

Flo nodded. "Just that someone is telling you to wear it?"

"Yes," she said honestly. Flo nodded and smirked, seeming to understand Serenity's point.

The two women stood for a few moments in silence. Serenity bit her bottom lip as she stared at the dress. It was gorgeous. She touched her lip while thinking. The dresses she brought with her were not nearly as formal as this one.

She touched the material again as she bit her bottom lip. It was memorizing. She didn't know if any man would be able to think straight if she were wearing this dress.

"I've never seen material like this," she whispered.

"It's called onyx thread," Flo said carefully as she moved away from Serenity to hang the dress on the wardrobe door. "It's produced by the Lupus pack. I'm told that the thread can only be made from onyx found in the Black Mourning Mountains."

Serenity was surprised by this. "Thread made from gems?"

Flo shrugged again. "That is what I am told. Will you wear the dress? We must move quickly, dinner is about to begin."

Serenity shook her head. "No, I will apologize personally to the Prince, but I cannot wear the dress."

Flo didn't seem surprised. She moved to the garment bag she had carried with her and pulled out two more dresses. "I had packed these for you before the Prince sent the onyx dress."

She revealed a deep crimson gown that shimmered with a glitter overlay and a velvet blue dress. Serenity bit her lip again.

"Is dinner always this formal?"

Flo nodded her head.

"The blue one please," Serenity said easily. "All of the dresses are lovely though. You have good taste, Flo."

"Thank you, Milady," Flo said as she removed the blue dress from the hanger. She motioned for Serenity to step on the pedestal. Serenity didn't move onto it immediately. She held out her hand for the dress, once Flo gave it to her, she turned and entered the washroom where she dressed quickly on her own.

Flo seemed surprised when Serenity returned, but didn't say anything as she stepped up onto the pedestal. The dress fit like a glove along Serenity's curvaceous figure. It cut low between her breasts, was long sleeved, which Serenity liked, and short in length, only cutting to her mid-thigh. She had never worn a dress so short, nor had she ever seen such a style before. She turned on the pedestal looking at herself in the double mirrors of the wardrobe. The blue velvet was sapphire in color, matching her eyes and making them pop vibrantly. She smirked slightly as she messed with her hair.

"It doesn't need any alterations?" Flo asked.

"No, it fits well," Serenity said as she glanced at Flo. "What sort of shoes should I wear? I've never seen or worn a dress of this style."

"It's a Serpentine style," Flo responded. "I traveled to their capital once with the Prince. All the women wore short dresses like this for formal gatherings. They mostly wore sandals with them."

Serenity nodded as she stared at herself in the mirror again. Flo moved to the garment bag and retrieved silver strappy sandals.

"I have these," she said handing them to Serenity.

Serenity thanked her as she sat down on the pedestal to put the sandals on.

"Would you like me to do your hair?" Flo asked.

"Can you put it in a bun?"

"Of course," Flo nodded moving forward. She brushed Serenity's hair with her fingers delicately, pulling her silver blonde hair back out of her face. There was a gentle knock on the door as Flo began to work on Serenity's hair.

"Come in," Serenity called.

Mason appeared. He entered the room so that he was standing before Serenity. She looked up at him with a small smile. His stone grey eyes stared down at her with a stern expression that was not foreign to her. He appeared harsh because he was tense, constantly on guard. He did not like her being in a room alone with a falcon, even if Flo was a servant.

"I was beginning to wonder what was taking so long?" he said as he crossed his arms over his chest.

Serenity smiled. "Getting dressed for a Prince is never a quick task."

"You never take this long to dress for your King," Mason retorted. Serenity gave him a cross expression. She wanted to tell him that she didn't feel a need to charm her King, but as the Crowned Prince may have every intention of killing her on sight, she felt it best to try and appeal to him. But, she did not want to say that in front of Flo.

Flo tapped her should and muttered that she was done with Serenity's hair. Serenity made to stand up, but Mason stepped forward, taking her hand to assist her. She still glared at him as she stood.

"I want to impress the Crowned Prince."

Mason bowed his head. "Then I suggest you don't keep him waiting any longer. Mona is in the sitting room. She is here to take you to dinner."

"Alright," Serenity nodded. "Thank you. I'll be out in just a moment."

Mason bowed his head and left the bedroom silently.

"Milady," Flo said softly as she cleaned up her things. Serenity glanced at her before looking at herself in the mirror. Her hair looked perfect; it was slicked back in a tight neat bun. She wasn't even sure how Flo had managed to put it up so effortlessly.

"Yes, Flo?"

"May I ask you a question?"

"Of course," Serenity turned to face her. She never had an issue with anyone questioning her, especially people who were in her service or assisted her. She knew what it was like to be in a position below someone else. She never wanted to make anyone feel inferior to her and always hoped to be open to them.

"Is the wolf your guard or your keeper?"

Serenity smiled. "If you ask him, I'm sure he'd say keeper. He feels I'm a disobedient child and pain in his ass."

"But what do you say?"

"I have no keeper," Serenity responded. "He is my guard and a trusted friend."

Flo nodded her head but didn't seem to understand Serenity's answer.

"Why do you ask?"

"The way he speaks to you…it's difficult to determine his place."

"Because he speaks openly?"

Flo nodded.

"I spent most of my life living in silence. I think it's important to allow people to speak as they wish and it is important for me to listen to them when they do."

Flo nodded her head again, her dreadlocks bobbing around her face.

"It was a pleasure to meet you, Milady," she said with a bow of her head. She hitched her sewing bag over her shoulder.

"Thank you for the dresses and for your help," Serenity said with a smile as she escorted Flo to the door. Flo bowed her head again as Serenity opened the door for her. She said nothing else and once she was gone, Serenity made her way across the room to the nightstand by the bed. She quickly pulled on the thigh holster she had put in the drawer of the nightstand and then slipped the small, thin knife she liked to carry, into the holster. She was thankful that the dress was just long enough to hide the knife. Once the weapon was in place, she exited the room to head to dinner.

Serenity was not surprised to see Mason standing at the end of the hall, his arms still crossed over his chest, waiting for her to emerge from the bedroom. Mona was standing in the sitting room. She frowned at the sight of Serenity.

"You're not wearing the black dress?" Mona said to Serenity.

"No," Serenity shook her head as she looked down at her velvet attire.

Mona did not say anything else and opened the suite door. She motioned for Serenity to follow her. Mason caught Serenity's elbow before she could follow Mona. Serenity looked up at him with raised eyebrows.

"You're wearing a knife?"

She nodded with a smirk. "Yes, Mason."

"I do not intend on leaving you alone with the Crowned Prince."

"And if he dismisses you?"

"Only Cevin can dismiss me, and he is not here to do so," Mason retorted smartly.

Serenity nodded in understanding. She slipped her arm out of his grasp and made her way out of the chamber. She felt his eyes on her as she walked away. She was sure he was staring at her because she had never worn a short dress. She wore dresses with slits in the skirts that revealed her legs, but nothing like this before. She liked it. She liked showing off her legs in a different manner. She knew that if Mason was staring at her that other men surely would be too. It was empowering to her knowing that men were staring at her—possibly wanting her—but not being able to have her. It had taken her sometime to gain that confidence after Theron's death. She was always confident in her looks, but for most of her existence value was purely placed on her body, appearance and sexuality—and she never had control of them. She could never deny a man, if she tried to it usually resulted in some sort of assault upon her. But now, being a free bird allowed her some agency with her sexuality and body. She was also a high ranking member of the Pantharian court. Her position helped protect her in some capacity; at least to people who respected such titles and positions.

"Prince Fallon is waiting," Mona said with urgency.

Serenity nodded. "Please, let's not keep him waiting any longer."

Mason squeezed Serenity's elbow gently and motioned for her to follow Mona. She smiled up at him with calming blue eyes. His grey eyes returned her peaceful stare. Serenity had never seen another creature with such calming eyes like Mason's. She thought that a wolf would have more aggressive eyes, which Mason could if he was in a serious situation, but he had the calmest eyes Serenity had ever seen. The only person who could challenge his calming stare was Cevin, but Serenity knew that was because he was a dove and they always brought peace.

"Don't give anything away," he whispered in her ear. She looked at him surprised. What exactly was he referring to? She didn't ask though, only bowed her head.

Mona was practically jogging down the halls and stairs of the Nest. Serenity didn't realize how late she was to dinner. She was worried slightly, only because Mona seemed worried. Serenity had to remind herself that she held her own power. There was nothing wrong with someone waiting to see her. Mona was use to waiting on the Prince. It was her job to ensure he didn't wait for anything as she was his servant and head of house. It was not Serenity's job to please the Crowned Prince. Perhaps that is why Mason told her not to give anything away. It was his way of reminding her of her own power and strength.

The dining hall they entered was a vast beautiful room with a curved dining table that matched the curve of the walls. Serenity looked out at the long table wondering where she would sit? Obviously, the Crowned Prince would sit at the center of the 'C' shape table. There were chairs on the outside of the table, none on the inside. She would probably have to sit right next to him. She bit her bottom lip as she stopped at the edge of the table and stared at the beautiful room.

The wall at the edge of the room was nonexistent. She was starting to understand the beauty and appeal of the Nest was how open it was to the outside air. It was a birds dream – a true home for a bird, open to the fresh free air. Serenity moved away from the table to the edge of the patio that spilled out from the dining hall to a gorgeous garden. The sun dripped down from the sky. She smiled as he closed her eyes.

"Milady," Mona said with a mild tone of annoyance. "Would you like to have a seat?"

Serenity glanced back at Mona in the dining hall. Behind her, Serenity could see other servants bring forward trays of food and place settings. She bit her bottom lip.

"Is it alright if I wait here for the Crowned Prince?"

Mason moved past Serenity without a word and stood at the edge of the garden, looking up at the looming walls of the Nest. He folded his hands behind his back, and appeared to not be listening but Serenity knew he was.

"I'm sure he'd prefer if you took your seat," Mona responded quickly.

Serenity folded her hands in front of her and raised her eyebrows at Mona. She was used to being spoken to this way, and it wasn't what offended her. What concerned her was Mona's behavior. Why did she feel the need to get Serenity in her chair?

"It's alright, Mona," said a deep voice. Serenity turned to her left and saw a large, shadowy figure moving forward into the sunlight. Mona bowed low, without a word, then turned and left the dining hall without a word. "Forgive Mona's attitude. She believes everyone should fall all over themselves when I enter the room."

Serenity smiled slightly as she turned to face the Crowned Prince. She relaxed her hands to her sides as she bowed at the waist to greet the powerful man. She stood up straight to take in his full stature. He was a massive man, much like the Tigers she had seen in the Den. She supposed that most male falcons were large, especially compared to any female birds.

Crowned Prince Fallon has gleaming golden eyes, a handsome strong jaw that was clean shaven and long golden brown hair tied tightly back in a low bun at the nap of his neck. He stood tall, with broad shoulders, muscular arms and a thick neck. His white shirt was tight across his chest and revealed every muscle in his arms and abs. Over his white shirt, he wore a long brown leather cloak and matching leather pants. He was dressed informally, which surprised Serenity as she was led to believe that he placed great value on formal attire. Serenity smirked; obviously he placed a great amount of value on others in formal attire while he dressed informally. He appreciated the power it demonstrated.

"I imagine that many people fall all over themselves in your presences, your Majesty."

Crowned Prince Fallon stepped closer to her, touched her chin softly, and tilted her head up to look her in the eye.

"But not you," he responded. Serenity grinned with charm. "Mona said you haven't eaten since you arrived, you must be starving."

"It would be a pleasure to share a meal with you."

Fallon smiled and glanced towards Mason.

"And your guard?"

Serenity looked over to Mason, who met her gaze easily. She didn't say anything as he stepped towards her.

"I'm fine, your Majesty," he said with a bow of his head. "Mona was kind enough to bring me food while Lady Peacefellow was resting."

"Please, join us anyways," Fallon said motion back to the dining hall.

"Thank you, Sir."

Fallon offered his arm to Serenity, who took it out of formality. She followed the Crowned Prince's lead as he guided her into the dining hall. He pulled out the chair next to his for her and she sat easily, thanking him. He quickly sat next to her and immediately placed his napkin on his lap. He began to eat the food on his plate. Serenity was sure it was some kind of meat, but she didn't study it. Mason sat down on the other side of her and leaned back in his chair.

"Forgive me," Fallon said after he drank some water. "I've been in the fields all day. That is why I'm so informally dressed and starving."

"The fields?" Serenity questioned.

"The Nest is one of the largest producers of tobacco, Serenity," Fallon responded with a smile. "Once a week, I go to the fields to help the workers."

Serenity looked the Crowned Prince over briefly. He may have spent the day at the fields, but he did not do very much work. There wasn't a speck of dirt on him. He barely looked sweaty. Serenity could tell that he didn't do any work. He probably sat under an awning 'supervising.'

"Is it tobacco that the Pantherian court would like transported to Carna?"

Fallon nodded his head. "Yes, your King thinks that the tobacco is a fair trade for wheat that is produced in the country side of the Pantherian territory."

"Do you?"

Fallon looked directly at Serenity with surprised golden eyes. Serenity bit her bottom lip. Perhaps he was not used to people talking to him in such a direct manner.

"It puzzles me that you asked me to come speak to you about the trade agreement, your Majesty."

"There is someone better suited?"

"Yes, the Pantherian trade ambassador would have been my first choice," Serenity responded with a matter of fact tone.

She caught Mason glancing at her. She knew that his gaze was purely out of concern for her safety. Talking to the Crowned Prince so directly may not be well received. But Serenity was not one to censor what she said to people simply because of their position. She believed in being direct and telling the truth.

Fallon laughed lightly. Serenity could not tell if it was forced or not.

"I knew that you would be honest with me, Serenity," he said easily. "That is why I asked for you."

Serenity looked directly at the Crowned Prince. "Is that the only reason?"

The Crowned Prince didn't say anything at first. He took a bite of his food, to buy himself some time before he had to speak again. Serenity wasn't sure what he was worried about. He had to know that she suspected he was going to hurt her or test her magic and strength.

"No, it is not," he admitted, but he did not elaborate, he continued to eat his food.

Serenity frowned slightly, but did not press her question. She ate some of her food as silence fell in the dining hall. Mason leaned forward to pour himself a goblet of water. After he took a sip, he spoke.

"May I ask a personal question, your Majesty?"

"Of course, Mason," Fallon responded. His body was tense. Serenity wondered if he was preparing for Mason to question him about the wolf packs?

"The King passed away many months ago, why have you not been coroneted and assumed the title of King? I'm assuming you do all the work of King?"

Serenity looked at him surprised. She had been wondering the same thing, but wasn't sure if she dared ask just yet.

"That is a very good question Mason, one I expected from Serenity, not you."

"She is too polite to be so straight forward this early in the conversation."

"Please do not speak about me as if I am not here," she said quickly to Mason with a harsh glare. He bowed his head to her in apology. Serenity could feel the Crowned Prince's eyes studying the pair as they stared at each other with harsh glares.

"Forgive me," he whispered to her. He looked back to Fallon, waiting for an answer to his question. Serenity turned away to look at Fallon.

"I'm sorry. It is a question I wondered, your Majesty, and though Mason may suggest I'm not that direct, I just did not want to ask such a personal question before we had gotten to know each other a little."

Fallon drank from his goblet again and nodded his head. "No need to apologize, Serenity. Mason, I'm sure was given direction to speak on your behalf."

"Hardly," Mason said as he turned away from the Crowned Prince.

"Mason is here by my request, not my King's," Serenity said softly. "He is my personal guard and friend."

This caught Fallon's attention. He looked her directly in the eye. "King Tzvi did not send you with a chaperon?"

"I do not need one," Serenity responded sternly. "Whatever your intention is from this meeting, your Majesty, the King and I were not concerned that it was a matter requiring a chaperon."

Fallon smiled and nodded. "Some may say it does require one."

Serenity frowned as she realized where the conversation was going. She glanced a side glare at Mason because he had pushed the subject in this direction, although it wasn't completely his fault, they would get there eventually.

"I have not been coroneted as King because Falcon law requires that I have mate in order to be King. I must find a mate in the next few weeks, otherwise my family line will lose the throne."

Serenity's heart plummeted into her stomach. Now she knew exactly why the Crowned Prince had asked for her. It wasn't to test her magic and see her worth – it was to ask her to be his mate. She leaned forward in her chair, putting her head in her hands as she rested her elbows on the table. This couldn't possibly be happening. It had only been a few days since Lord Carter had asked her to be his mate for the millionth time, surely another man could not be asking her the same question again so quickly?

"Any prospects?" Mason inquired to break the silence that had fallen.

"A few," the Crowned Prince responded softly as he looked at Serenity with concern.

His answer surprised Serenity slightly. Perhaps she was being a little conceded thinking that the Crowned Prince was going to ask her to be his mate. She sat back in her chair and began to eat her food slowly.

"Am I one of your prospects?" Serenity asked as she looked at him.

Fallon's golden eyes met her midnight blue stare with intense purpose. He nodded his head slowly.

"That is why you asked me here?"

Crowned Prince Fallon did not break her stare. "Yes," he responded. "I think you are best choice."

A shiver ran through Serenity's entire body. She hated feeling this way. She hated men thinking that she was available to them—for whatever reason, not just for sex, but for company, friendship or marriage. She understood that she had no control over people's desires, but she wished they'd keep their thoughts to themselves.

Serenity stood up from her chair at the table and moved behind it. She clenched the back of the chair as she glanced at both men. Crown Prince Fallon stood up as well. He touched the small of Serenity's back.

"I did not mean to upset you," he said softly.

Serenity glanced at Mason who did not reveal his surprise in his eyes. He didn't look at Serenity, he kept his eyes forward as he leaned on the table he rubbed his forehead with a heavy sigh.

"Would you like to speak in private?" Fallon asked.

"No," Serenity whispered with a shake of her head. She did not want to talk with the Crowned Prince in private. "I'm fine."

"Very well. As I said, I did not mean to upset you."

"You did not upset me," Serenity lied. This caught Mason's attention and he looked directly at her with stern dark gray eyes.

Serenity stood up straight. Of course she was upset. She hated everything about what Fallon had just asked her. She had always been valued based on her appearance and what she was – a dove, a representation of hope and bringer of peace. Many sought to tear her relationship with Theron apart with the same reasoning. He was only making her his mate to put hope into the newly freed bird population. Amir wanted to marry her for the similar reasons; to elevate his position in his own court because of what she represented. And now, the Crowned Prince. Was this the burden of being a free dove?

"I have," Fallon said honestly. "I'm sure you've spent your entire life feeling as if you were only valued for what you are, not who you are. I did not mean to make you feel that way."

Serenity looked up at Fallon with surprised eyes. She glanced at Mason, then back at the Crowned Prince.

"Then why did you say it?"

Fallon also seemed surprised. "Because it is the truth. I need a Queen and I felt you would be a worthy companion."

Serenity rolled her eyes. "Get in line," she sighed heavily. Mason extended a water goblet to her. She took it and sipped carefully. "I'm the most logical choice," she said sarcastically.

"I think it would be good politically, yes."

"I can't," Serenity said with a frown. "I'm flattered, your Majesty. I truly am," Serenity was trying not to laugh because she could not believe what he had said still. He wanted to marry her? "Any woman would be honored, in fact any woman would be lucky to be considered and you could ask any woman. Why ask me?"

"I told you, it is a good political choice."

"To encourage your lesser citizens that you are not the villain anymore?" Serenity said bitterly. "I've been a key player in this story before, your Majesty, it did not end well."

"I see it ended better for you than King Theron."

The comment was a low blow. Serenity stood up straight and glared at the Crowned Prince. He seemed to realize his mistake and straightened his cloak uncomfortably on his shoulders.

"You also want to ensure that the other falcons know that I'm not a risk to their safety. Being one of two doves left in the territories, supposedly my magic is necessary to keep your violent magic at bay. I would hate for your people and court to think that I might suddenly come after them."

"Marrying you would not ease their fears."

"No! It will make it worse. Any decision that you make that benefits any bird less than you will be questioned. People will think that you are doing it because I've persuaded you to, not because you actually made the decision on your own—although there is something to be said for bedding a dove. If you can bed me, then you must be able to control me to some extent."

"If I truly found you to be a threat, I would kill you where you stand," Fallon retorted. He was beginning to sound frustrated with Serenity. "There is no Tigerian royal to protect you anymore and I don't think King Tzvi will sacrifice our trade agreements, even for your pretty head."

"It's only mildly insulting to me that you don't think I can defend myself."

Fallon raised his eyebrows high in surprise and smirked slightly. He didn't think she could defend herself, forget the fact that Mason was sitting next to her. Serenity appreciated that he had yet to defend her. She stepped towards him and gripped the back of his chair with white knuckles.

"Is this the only reason you asked me here, your Majesty?" Serenity whispered as she stared down at her hands. Mason shifted in his chair but did not turn to look at Serenity or the Crowned Prince.

"Yes," Fallon stepped towards Serenity, touching her elbow gently. She looked up at him abruptly, laying a sharp icy glare on the Crowned Prince. He didn't flinch at her glare. He stared straight into her deep blue eyes with his burning golden stare and left his hand on her elbow. He was not intimidated by her glare. He did not think that he has just violated her boundaries by touching her. "And I ask that you stay awhile so I may convince you."

Serenity turned away from Fallon as Mason stood up from his chair. She didn't meet his eye, but he slowly moved away from the table, leaving her alone next to Fallon. He didn't exit the dining hall, but hovered by the door to give them some measure of privacy. He knew she didn't want to be left alone, but he wasn't entirely sure why. Serenity wasn't sure if he had moved away from her and the Crowned Prince because he was uncomfortable or not.

"Serenity," Fallon whispered. "Please, stay here a few weeks, let me convince you that I am not as awful as my reputation suggests."

She frowned deeply. "Convincing me is irrelevant, your Majesty. As a Dove I can only mate with someone out of love and I do not love you."

Fallon smiled. "That is not completely true. You are a smart woman; you know what it means to survive and that there are arrangements that can be made to guarantee your survival. But…perhaps I can convince you to love me, if that is what it will take…if you'll permit me time?"

He was charming her, and she appreciated it. He was handsome, strong and appealing. But she knew deep down he would never love her. She was reminded of the rumor that Lord Carter had told her-that the Crowned Prince preferred men to women. Despite that, Serenity knew she would never love him. She knew to stay in the Nest would only lead him and his kingdom on.

"What will happen if I deny your request?" she whispered looking up at Fallon seriously.

"Then I will have to find someone else who will accept me as I am," he said soundly. His answer surprised Serenity. Was he asking her to be his mate because he knew she would never love him as he would never love her?

Before another word could be said, footsteps could be heard entering the dining hall. Both Serenity and Fallon looked to the open patio where a man, dressed in grey pants and unbuttoned peasant shirt, appeared. Serenity was surprised to see another man dressed so informally. He had dark brown reddish hair and blazing red eyes that immediately caught Serenity's attention. They reminded her of Amon and his gleaming panther stare. She bit her bottom lip as she looked over the man's chiseled features. Perhaps he wore his shirt open on purpose to show off his massive, well defined torso. He didn't wear shoes, and when he entered the dining hall he pushed his long hair out of his face.

"Your Majesty, forgive me," he said in a deep husky voice. Serenity was studying him closely, trying to figure out if he was a bird of prey. She assumed he had to be a falcon – but what falcon would have such red eyes? She took the man in as he approached. He did not even glance at Serenity, he kept his eyes on the Crowned Prince. Serenity's stomach clenched as the man approached and she noticed his eyes turning from the flaming red to deep emerald green. The color faded naturally, softly changing shades, until the only color in his pupils was shimmering green.

"What is it?" Fallon asked rather aggressively as he looked to the man. "I said I did not want to be bothered—"

"—the Queen is asking for you," the man interrupted.

Fallon stared at the man for a few moments, saying nothing. He turned to face Serenity. His expression was still stern, not gentle as it had been when he was asking her to stay.

"Please excuse me," he said to her with a frown. "May I come see you in your suite later?"

Serenity hesitated. "Yes," she replied. "I'll wait up for you."

She heard Mason approaching her from the dining hall entrance. She hoped that he wouldn't interject. If she wanted the Crowned Prince to come see her, then she would let him. Mason wasn't her chaperon. Thankfully, he didn't say anything as he stopped near her. The man in gray was looking at Mason with raised eyebrows. Serenity glanced between all of the men for a moment, trying to read the room.

"Shall I send for Mona to take you to your room?" Fallon asked.

Serenity shook her head. "She has more important matters to attend to," she said with a dismissive wave of her hand. "Mason and I can manage to find our way back to the suite."

Fallon didn't seem happy with this response.

"I'll take them," the man in gray offered as his eyes met Serenity's. She locked her gaze on his and did not dare break it. He was staring at her intently. She felt as though he was trying to see straight into her soul. She held her breath so not to blink. He seemed to know that she was trying not to lose their staring contest and smiled, a crooked half cocked smile that made Serenity's heart skip a beat. She had never seen such a flirtatious smile before. Who was this man? "If Lady Peacefellow will permit me?"

"I will," she whispered in reply finally breaking the stare. Serenity stepped to Mason, who motioned for her to pass him. "Thank you for dinner, your Majesty."

Fallon bowed his head. "I will not make you wait long."

Serenity smirked over her shoulder and bowed her head to the Crowned Prince as the man in grey moved in front of her and Mason. Serenity followed him as he passed her. She bit her bottom lip and looked at the ground as she turned away from the Crowned Prince. The trio walked out of the dining hall in silence. It was not until they were up three floors into the Nest that anyone spoke.

"Would you like some food brought up?"

It was the man in grey. Serenity looked at him with a puzzled expression.

"You didn't eat much of your dinner," the man replied to her body language. "I can have some food brought up for you."

"I'm fine, thank you," Serenity replied with a shake of her head.

"Who are you?" Mason asked directly.

The man in gray glanced at him carefully, looking him up and down. He was not studying Mason out of fear; rather he was taken him in to determine if he was really a threat.

"My name is Killian," the man in gray responded.

"You are the Crowned Prince's aid?"

Serenity listened to the two men on each side of her.

"You could say that," Killian responded with a light laugh.

"What title would you give yourself?" Serenity asked curiously.

"The King's bastard."

Serenity bit her bottom lip and nodded. Killian did not seem bothered by his self given title. He still wore a gentle smile on his face. He folded his hands behind his back as he glanced between her and Mason. Serenity noticed his eyes were starting to change color again, back to red.

"I have no claim to the throne," Killian continued slowly. "Even if Fallon does not find a bride."

"Who takes power if he does not find a mate?" Serenity asked carefully.

Killian studied Serenity for a few moments as if weighing his options. He wasn't sure if he should tell her who would take power.

"The council," he finally responded. "Under civilized circumstances, they would vote to allow passage of power to the Queen."

"Crowned Prince Fallon's Mother?"

Killian nodded his head.

"But these are not civilized circumstances?"

Killian glanced at Serenity with serious flaming red eyes. "No," he whispered. "The shift in species control of the western and northern lands has left a great deal of opportunity open for the Crowned Prince. Opportunity that his council feels he is not taking advantage of. If he does not find a mate to rule with, I'm sure the council will vote one of themselves into power – or there will be an all out coup as multiple members fight to have the thrown."

"What sort of opportunity has the fall of the Tigerian court left open?" Serenity was sure that it was what Killian was referring to when he said species control of the western lands. Northern lands must have meant the wolves and pack politics. Serenity glanced at Mason who was listening, but not saying anything. She was sure, despite what he said, he followed pack politics a great deal.

Killian was smiling. "I'm sure you're aware that the land your old kingdom once controlled has completely fallen and is under no authority at this point. The higher ranking members of the Tigerian court that were not killed are in hiding. The coup, opposing members of the court staged, failed greatly. No one has claimed the territory. The Den and its surrounding areas are overrun with crime and poverty—more so than before."

Serenity frowned deeply. She could only imagine what species now made up the population of the Den. Most of the birds that were kept there left when Theron freed them, only a few months before the coup that overthrew him occurred.

"The Crowned Prince is looking to claim the territory?"

Killian shook his head. "That is the missed opportunity his council is annoyed with. The Prince is more concerned with politics at home. He has always been more interested in his people and his kingdom. He doesn't have much interest in expanding his responsibilities."

Serenity nodded her head slowly. She folded her hands behind her back as they reached the suite door. Mason opened it easily and motioned for Serenity to enter. She waved him in, silently telling him to give her a moment with Killian. Mason said nothing, but placed a stern glaring expression on Serenity. He moved into the suite without a word. She turned to Killian and bowed her head to him.

"Thank you for escorting me to the suite," she said softly.

Killian boldly touched her chin, forcing her to look into his eyes. She raised her eyebrows at him, puzzled by his action. She was surprised by his intense red stare. His gleaming eyes were penetrating her soul. Her eyes opened wide as a vision of dancing red flames appeared before her. Killian was no longer in front of her—but she could still feel his touch—she only saw burning flames and could hear the crackling of the fire as it glimmered. The flames were surrounded by blackness. She could not see what they were burning, or what may be feeding their hunger. The vision engulfed her. She no longer felt Killian's touch on her chin. She turned around frantically, trapped in the flames that were completely surrounding her.

Just as quickly as it had come, the vision was gone.

Serenity stepped back in shock. She took a long gasping breath as if she had just come up for air after being submerged under water. She grabbed Killian's wrist, as his hand was still holding her chin, and glared into his flaming eyes. His eyes matched the burning fire that was in the vision.

"Forgive me," he whispered as he stepped back, shaking his head as if he were trying to forget what had just happened. He pulled his hand out of Serenity's grasp, and then stood up straight as if remembering himself.

"What did you do to me?"

"Do not agree to Fallon's offer," Killian said quickly looking back into Serenity's eyes. "Do not stay here long."

Serenity stared at him confused. "Why not?"

"You're not safe here, dove," he replied sharply.

Killian's entire demeanor changed. Serenity wasn't sure what sort of connection they had just shared, but she was sure that somehow Killian had entered her mind telepathically or at least tried to. She wasn't sure if he had seen the vision of flames too or if he had caused it, but he seemed bothered now.

"Are you going to tell me what just happened? What did you do to me?"

Killian shook his head. "No," he replied. "You should go prepare yourself for the Crowned Prince." He bowed his head to her, to bid her good night, then began to turn away. Serenity took a few steps after him and grabbed his arm, pulling him back.

Killian looked down at her surprised. Serenity couldn't help but admire the stern features of his face, his sharp jaw line, clean shaven skin, perfectly chiseled nose and cheek bones. Her breath caught for a moment as she peered up at him. His red eyes were fading to green again. Once they had completely changed, they were a vibrant green shade that reminded Serenity of dark evergreen trees in a deep forest.

"You have to answer my question," she said strongly.

"No," he responded. "I don't."

Serenity frowned deeply and released his arm. Killian said nothing, but bowed his head, then turned away. He walked quickly down the hall. Serenity could not make sense of the entire exchange. What was he trying to do? And what did he mean she wasn't safe at the Nest? She thought that was a well known fact.

"Serenity?"

It was Mason, calling her from the suite. Serenity turned and entered the room.

"Are you alright?" Mason asked as he appeared in the sitting room. He crossed his arms over his chest as he looked her over. She must have appeared shaken because he came to her instantly. He held her chin up to look her in the eye, much like Killian had.

"I had a vision," she whispered. "Of flames engulfing me."

Mason studied Serenity's eyes closely. "What prompted the vision?"

"Killian touched my chin," Serenity said pulling away from Mason carefully.

"You know what he is?"

She looked back up at Mason sharply, but nodded. "A phoenix."

"It's best to stay away from him."

This caused Serenity to frown. She didn't appreciate Mason telling her who she should stay away from. She knew he was just trying to protect her, but she did not need his protection. Not from Killian. If anyone was going to hurt her, she didn't think it would be another rare bird species.

"I'm going to change," she whispered as she rubbed her temples. She was getting a head ache now and she didn't want to argue with Mason.

Without another word, she wandered down the hall to her chamber to change her clothes before the Crowned Prince arrived. She wanted to change into something more comfortable. If he and Killian were going to walk around so informally, then she was too, especially since she was in her suite. She felt no need to impress the Prince. Perhaps if he saw her as a slob he wouldn't want to take her as his mate and the problem would resolve itself.