Page 84 of Courting the Dragon King

His father would roll around in his grave. Or more likely, his spirit would continue wandering around, muttering about the treaty and the bloodline, following Konrad even though Konrad could not see him.

“Yeah. Let’s not do that.” Konrad exhaled. “We just have to get through tomorrow. Then we’ll be back safe in Draconia.”

“Is everything ready to finalise the treaty?” Gerard asked.

Konrad nodded. “The grand monk said everything is on track for tomorrow. I did ask if we could finalise the treaty sooner, but the grand monk said that they would not be ready.”

“What exactly is involved in the ceremony?” Senta asked.

“The rulers of the different kingdoms, along with all those whose marriages are part of fulfilling the treaty, will gather in the ceremony chamber,” Konrad said. “There will be chanting, signing, and the same sort of things that happened during our wedding ceremonies.”

He sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. “And do we have any idea who killed the grand healer or who is plotting anything?” Konrad asked, whilst knowing they had no new information.

They knew to update him. But Konrad couldn’t stop himself from asking. Repeatedly asking. Honestly, it felt like they were just talking in circles now.

Gerard shook his head.

“I spoke to the grand shield and grand monk just before this meeting. They haven’t uncovered anything about the grand healer’s death,” Senta said.

Silence followed. Konrad glanced at Elias, hoping he might have some insight or news. But he just sipped his tea.

“We have the final ball tonight,” Konrad said.

“The ballroom will be full of Draconian guards,” Senta said.

“And warrior monks, and guards from other kingdoms too. There’ll probably be more guards than guests in attendance.” Gerard huffed.

The ball had been planned for tomorrow to celebrate the completion of the treaty. But since the Draconians planned to leave as soon as the treaty was signed, as did several other kingdoms, the grand monk had brought it forward to today.

“We finalise the peace treaty tomorrow. Then we leave,” Konrad said. “We just have to get to tomorrow evening.”

Soon after, they left the strategy room. Konrad headed for his bedroom. The guards inclined their heads as he passed. He had over two hours until the ball. He needed to rest. It felt like he hadn’t slept in months.

At least he knew Wraith would be in his room, or at least somewhere in their quarters, as he’d agreed to remain in them for his own safety. But when he opened the door, Wraith was not there.

However, the door to the balcony stood open and the curtains blew. Konrad crossed the room.

Sure enough, there stood Wraith, gazing down. He wore black robes and, over that, a silver corset cinched his waist. His long black hair had been pulled back into an elaborate plait. A circlet of black metal sat on his head.

Konrad came up beside him. Wraith did not notice him, which was not unusual. Konrad slipped an arm around his waist.

Wraith startled and turned towards him. Silver eye shadow shimmered on his eyelids. “Oh. You’re back! I’ve been waiting for you.”

Konrad cupped his cheek. “You look particularly lovely this afternoon.”

Wraith smiled. “I’m ready for the ball.”

“Already? It’s over two hours away.”

“Really?” Wraith frowned. “I thought I was running late.”

Wraith, it seemed, often had trouble keeping track of time. He had trouble keeping track of a lot of things. When they got back to Draconia, Konrad would find someone to assist him with his everyday routine. That would no doubt make Wraith’s life easier.

Already, he’d spoken to their servants here, ensuring they regularly brought Wraith food and drink. Wraith hadn’t really noticed. But the servants had reported that he’d been eating and drinking the food they provided him. At least some of it.

“Well, there is no penalty for being early.” Konrad nodded towards the garden below. “Anyone down there?”

“A monk.” Wraith looked down. “He is chanting. I’ve seen him down there before.”