00:00I clenched my fists so hard my nails dug into my skin.
00:03Last time, I chose the wrong man and defied fate for a monster.
00:06In the end, everyone paid the price.
00:08But not this time.
00:09I walked straight past Killian.
00:10I ignored every arrogant prince and hero in the hall.
00:13Finally, I stopped before Alaric's throne of floating shells.
00:15I choose him.
00:17The hall went silent before exploding into insults.
00:19A blind girl and a cripple.
00:20Two outcasts made for each other.
00:22Vesper, you're blind.
00:24He can never leave that throne of floating shells.
00:26Killian looked down at me, enjoying his sense of power.
00:28I'll pretend I didn't hear that.
00:30Pick someone else.
00:32If no one wants you, you can do chores in our palace.
00:35I will not be a servant, nor a stray kept out of pity.
00:38Alaric said nothing.
00:39He slowly moved his throne of floating shells toward me.
00:42He reached out and took my hand in his.
00:44His palm was large, rough with calluses, and steady.
00:47He guided my hand to rest gently on his knee.
00:49There was no hiding, and there was no shame.
00:51Through the fabric, I felt the intense heat of his skin.
00:54Suddenly, a bolt of electricity shot from my fingers to my heart.
00:57Feeling was strange and overwhelming.
00:59I have no divine source.
01:01A fatheling should be impossible.
01:03But right now, this bond feels real and burning hot.
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