Only the most important people are allowed in for the ceremony. Dad Ryker and I stay in the temple courtyard while the others continue walking out.
I stay by Ryker's side not really in the mood to meet other male beasts since that's all that's here. We walk around a bit but all the staring and whispering is making me uncomfortable. All of a sudden I notice mother walking in and hide behind Ryker. That woman loves power and now that I'm a priestess she'll make me go around with her and try to meet with other males.
Ryker understands why I'm hiding and slowly we back up together till I back into someone. I stop instantly and spin around to meet a hard chest. I look up and the male beast is already looking down at me.
"Hello, are you alright?" He sounds kind enough. His eyes were a deep green and his hair was jet black. He was as tall as my father with broad shoulders and tanned skin. He was very good-looking. He has an aura that screams power.
"Yes, I'm alright. Your very hard." I say while rubbing my forehead.
"Sorry about that." He with a straight face.
By now Ryker has already turned around and was staring at the man in front of me.
"Prince Koda?" Ryker examines. Prince Koda looks up at my brother.
"Yes, and you are?" My eyes widen. He's a prince. I try to take a step back I'm already close to Ryker and don't move much. They both notice my movement and look down at me. Ryker then moves me back behind him again. I obey willingly.
"I didn't mean to frighten her." His voice is gentle, but his face is emotionless.
"She's not used to being close to other males that aren't family. And I'm Ryker, eldest son to the general of Tree Valley." Ryker speaks proudly. "Is it true you'll be staying in the valley to train with the general?" Ryker politely asks.
"Yes. The general has been getting a name for himself and I would love to learn from him what I can." He states.
'Even his voice holds a lot of power.'
"Hello Prince Koda, I see you've met two of my children." Oh no. Mother caught us. I can't run now or I'll be seen as a bad kid. As a priestess, I would be looked down on.
"Actually your daughter bumped into me." Prince Koda exclaims truthfully.
"That's not like her, she's usually very graceful." I roll my eyes at her.
'Is she really about to use me to get close to the prince?' Lyria thought.
"Excuse me mother but I must leave now to help with the final preparations of the ceremony." I bow slightly wanting to leave her presence as soon as possible.
"Can't it wait a little longer I just got here and it's been a while since I saw my precise daughter?"
"I'm a priestess now. I have responsibilities to uphold."
"You're also a female. I'm sure the head priest will understand once he sees you with me." She walks over and locks arms with me.
"Ryker dear, be a sweetheart and get me something to drink." Mother says, but I know she just wants him to leave.
Ryker squeezes my hand in reassurance. I take a deep breath and let go of his hand. Be smart, don't make a scene.
"Also let the priest know Lyria will be staying with me as a female member of our family." She smirks and makes a little wave with her fingers.
"Now back to you my dear Prince. I heard you were staying in the village for a while to train under my mate. How would you like to stay with us as our guest." Mom practically purred those words out. She could at least try to hide the fact she wants him.
"Thank you for the generous offer but I prefer to stay out of married households." He says very politely but I know he was disturbed by her offer. I couldn't help but laugh a little.
Mom pinches my arm and I shut up. Prince Koda still heard me and something of a smile crosses his eyes before it's gone just as quickly.
"I understand. I'll let my mates sort it out." She smiles kindly. "How about we walk with you for a bit." She offers. I look at her like she's crazy. 'What is she up to?'
"I don't mind." Prince Koda says casually.
What is he thinking I thought he didn't like my mom. I'm so confused.