Elara’s POV

Yeah, I was just being greedy and reckless.

The control panel’s voice cut through the air: "Chamber Four, Barrett: Spirit collapse level decreased by 4 points. Current spirit collapse level: 60."

I wrapped my arms around Barrett’s neck, clinging to him. The simple contact sent electricity shooting through his body.

I could tell he was thinking, "My mate... wants me?"

"That’s what you get for messing with me," Barrett murmured, his voice husky and raw.

He was nowhere near done. I watched his throat work as he battled the fire raging inside him. When he looked down at me, something in his expression melted. His large, warm hand found the back of my neck, stroking gently...

——

"It’s fine. As long as Elara’s here to soothe me, that’s enough. The rest... I’ll handle them all when I get out of here!

That cocky dragon—I’ll make him pay ten times over.

The fish, five times over.

Dorian? Kid’s barely grown but loves playing cute. Twice over.

Alistair? For that cooking stunt, ten times!

The fox—eighteen times!

And that rabbit? Ha, a hundred times!"

——

Elara’s POV

"You’re so vindictive," I muttered.

Barrett’s chuckle was soft. "Just this time."

"There won’t be a next time."

"Alright. Hold still, I’m getting you out of here..."

Barrett’s power lifted me, floating me out of Chamber Four.

His wind abilities are incredible. Wonder if I could ever learn to fly like that?

At Chamber Five, Alistair stood waiting by the food slot. His face brightened when he spotted me. "You okay?"

"Just handled some irritating business," I replied.

Alistair’ smile disappeared. His thumb traced across my lips. "Just irritating business?"

"It’s exactly what you’re thinking," I said, batting his hand away. I set down the food and made a quick exit.

I could feel Alistair watching me go, his expression warm but concerned.

——

"Oh, Elara... This is just the start. I hope you’re prepared for what’s ahead. The others might be manageable, but Barrett... he’s going to be a real challenge.

In some ways, Barrett and that rabbit were cut from the same cloth. They just had different approaches.

Unlike the first few. One appeared deep and enigmatic, but he was just completely smitten. One put on a tough front, but turned to mush when I was straight with him.

Honestly, Alistair was already anticipating their future together. It was going to be absolute chaos."

——

Elara’s POV

Prince Dorian’s still just a child.

And the fox over there...

"Elara’s here?" Finnian asked with that subtle, warm smile of his. He still looked polished and elegant. When our eyes locked, he closed the book on his table, rose gracefully, and moved toward me.

"Yeah, sorry I’m running late today..." I said.

Finnian’s laugh was light and melodic. "It’s fine. I know you had business to handle. I haven’t even finished the pastries you brought this morning."

"Did you like them?" My eyes brightened, but I quickly looked away, dodging his tender gaze.

He seems so composed. He’s not angry?

Before, he’d get possessive if I gave anyone else attention. Why’s he so chill now?

"They were delicious," Finnian said. "Want me to have Rory bring some different flavors?"

"No, these are great."

Finnian nodded. "Good. I’ll eat then." His tone was even, his face neutral. Everything about him seemed exactly the same. 𝑓𝘳𝘦𝑒𝑤𝑒𝘣𝘯ℴ𝘷𝘦𝓁.𝑐𝑜𝑚

I exhaled quietly in relief. Guess I don’t need to stress about everyone.

At least the fox is straightforward.

"Elara..."

"Yeah?" I responded.

Finnian’s gaze dropped, his beautiful features half in shadow. From my angle, I caught the faint, mischievous curve of his lips.

"If you’re not feeling up to it, Alistair can just bring the meals."

"What?"

Finnian’s smile grew gentler. "Your legs... they’re trembling."

I felt like I’d been sucker-punched.

"They are not!" I shot back, flustered and defensive.

Seeing me rattled finally eased the tension in Finnian’s chest.

"Oh, perhaps I was mistaken..." His voice remained steady, that gentle smile never wavering.

Damn it. He’s definitely pissed. I’m not falling for this innocent act!

I stepped closer, quietly retrieving the heavy block I’d stashed earlier.

"My mistake. I overstepped," Finnian said smoothly. "Elara, did I offend you?"

This whole dance, his polite but cutting little jabs—he was absolutely jealous.

He’s mad I was with Si, so he’s being passive-aggressive on purpose?

This is actually entertaining.

As he spoke, Finnian’s eyes drifted down and caught sight of the block in my hand.

I could sense him thinking, "My mate is truly precious."

He raised an eyebrow. The dangerous flash in his eyes disappeared instantly, replaced by his gentle, scholarly mask.

I clicked my tongue and tucked the block away again. "You were just being honest. Why would I be upset?"

Compared to Finnian’s forced composure, I actually felt relaxed now.

Finnian went rigid, clearly not expecting that response. His hand, concealed in his flowing sleeve, clenched into a fist. But his surface remained perfectly controlled.

He had no idea I’d counter immediately. "I know you’re just concerned about me. It’s okay, I get it. If my legs were actually shaking, I’d go see a doctor."