Chapter 39: The Ancient Art Of Mourn-Root

Odesse turned to Azure and smiled nervously. "Azure, this is Eryx; he’s my best friend." Eryx looked down, sadness written on his face as Odesse introduced him to Azure. Azure looked him up and down, checking his attire from his scuffed shoes to his messy hair. She turned to Odesse and let out a soft chuckle. "I’m sorry, Your Highness, but do you really call this human your friend?"

Odesse’s face scrunched up as she responded, "Yes, he is." Azure smiled and said, "You are a queen now." Odesse interrupted, her voice firm and unwavering as she raised her head high. "Before being a queen, I was a servant. Before becoming a wolf, I was human—and I still am." Eryx raised his head; his eyes were no longer sad, but still downcast. Odesse looked at him and smiled.

Azure observed both of them, her face lit with concern. "What do you imagine His Highness will say when he finds out about this, Your Highness?" Odesse smiled. "Well, he’s already aware of it." Azure sighed. "Alright then, Your Highness, whatever you say. The sun has set; I shall take my leave now but will return at dawn." She bowed her head and walked past Eryx, giving him a smile.

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