The Lycan King and his Dark Temptation (Valeria) novel Chapter 438

KATHERINE

I looked around the enormous palace, feeling a little tense.

Despite the luxury and the meticulous attention from the maids and footmen, even though I told Elliot I would accompany him, I was afraid.

Because this was the epicenter of hatred toward supernatural beings.

"Your Excellencies, what an honor to meet again," another person approached us in the vast hall, teeming with the elite of this hypocritical society.

Drinking elegantly and murmuring in low voices, we once again began the cycle of flattery, pretending to be courteous—or at least I did.

The truth was, outside the intimacy of our home, Elliot was a dog off his leash, or rather, a feral wolf.

His responses were so curt that I almost felt sorry for the guests, judging by the looks on their faces.

"War is like that—whoever gets there first takes it and can be sure it’s well defended," he replied to the marquis who had the nerve to ask about the newly acquired lands.

"I'll rip the head off anyone who tries to steal from me," he added before taking a sip of his wine.

The other man masked his unease with a forced chuckle. It was obvious that Elliot was warning him about the slice of the pie he had taken from Duke Thesio.

That area was now in turmoil, everyone tearing apart the fertile land that once belonged to Elliot’s greatest rival.

"Baby, they're about to call the Chamber of Lords. They don’t allow women in, which is why I didn’t want to bring you. You’ll be alone for about an hour."

Elliot squeezed my hand, his brow furrowed.

"Sweetheart, no one's going to eat me here, relax. I keep pretending and playing the part—right now, I'm the most powerful Duchess here. Who would dare offend me?" I told him with a smile, discreetly kissing his cheek with affection.

His intense blue eyes locked onto mine, a flicker of red glimmering in their depths—his fears and uncertainties were evident.

In the end, he had no choice but to attend the meeting when summoned.

At one point, the grand doors of the hall opened, and down the central aisle walked a striking man with light brown hair and hazel eyes.

He exuded power, much like my mate. He was possibly another lycan.

He strode forward with confidence and grace, despite the indiscreet stares and hushed whispers—some not so pleasant—though I was certain he could hear them.

It amazed me that beyond this invisible barrier, they were just like us—special beings living without fear.

Beside him, other members of his realm accompanied him as part of his delegation, but none felt as powerful as he did.

"No, thank you," I replied, hurrying to my private stall.

Who needs assistance to pee in this place?

Apparently, many people, because while I did my business, I overheard one of the most absurd conversations of my life.

Goddess, what do some of these noblewomen have in their heads that they literally need someone to wipe their asses?

Washing my hands, my indignation growing over the way the maids were treated, I rushed out.

Some things would never change.

I wandered through the hallways for a bit, distancing myself from the oppressive atmosphere.

With His Majesty out of seclusion, even the sun looked brighter in the sky, and those dark clouds had finally cleared.

I was lost in thought, staring into nothing, when sudden movement caught my attention in the garden area.

From this discreet side of the grand palace, I witnessed a crime scene.