His destined mate

Ethan's POV

The tension in the court had escalated since Theron's arrival, a simmering discontent that I could feel creeping through the nobles like a shadow. Whispers of distrust toward Bianca began to circulate, amplified by Theron's insinuations about her kind's primal magic abilities. His presence, though initially helpful, was now a double-edged sword, wielded against the very stability we were fighting to protect.

In the days following our council meeting, the atmosphere became very palpable with unease. During one of our strategy sessions, I gathered my closest advisors. "We need to address this growing dissent. It feels as if Theron is stoking fires that could engulf us."

Bianca's expression mirrored my concerns. "If the nobles believe I'm a threat, it undermines your authority and the entire council's decisions. We can't afford any fracture now."

Elara, who had been diligently investigating Theron, interjected, "He's playing a dangerous game. While he brought news about Emily, his underlying motives are becoming clearer. He seeks to exploit the fractures in our court for his gain." "Gain how?" I asked, my curiosity stirred up.

She continued, "By fostering distrust in you, he positions himself as a necessary ally-someone who can 'protect' the kingdom from the perceived threat of Bianca. He wants to weaken your authority so that he can gain influence over the nobles."

Bianca clenched her fists, her frustration evident. "So, he's using my identity as a weapon against us? That's despicable."

I nodded, anger boiling beneath the surface. "We can't let him succeed. But how do we counteract this narrative?" Bianca's POV

I couldn't shake the feeling of betrayal as I watched the nobles turn their backs on me, swayed by Theron's subtle manipulations. His charm and calculated words wrapped around their fears like vines, tightening their grip around our alliance. As I walked through the palace corridors, I pondered our next move. My mind was a whirlwind of strategies when I bumped into Sophia, her brow furrowed with concern.

"Bianca, I've heard the murmurs among the court. It's becoming increasingly dangerous for you here," she said, her voice low.

"I know," I replied, my tone sharp. "Theron is exploiting their fears. We need to act quickly before the divide becomes irreparable."

Sophia nodded. "I suggest we hold a gathering a public forum where you can directly address the nobles and dispel their fears. Show them the strength of our unity." The idea resonated with me. "Yes, but we must ensure Ethan is with me. They need to see that our bond is unbreakable, regardless of what they think about my heritage." Together, we devised a plan to confront the issue head-on. It was risky, but the stakes were too high to remain passive. Ethan's POV

As the day of the forum approached, I felt a heavy weight on my shoulders. Bianca's determination was inspiring, but I knew the risk involved in putting her in front of the court under these circumstances. If they turned on her, it could unravel everything we had fought for.

On the day of the gathering, the grand hall buzzed with tension. Nobles filled the seats, their expressions a mix of curiosity and hostility. I took my place beside Bianca, holding her hand tightly, a silent vow of support.

As I addressed the assembly, I spoke of unity, resilience, and the threats we faced. But the moment Bianca stood to speak, the murmurs of doubt crescendoed.

"Ladies and gentlemen of the court," she began, her voice steady, "I understand the concerns surrounding my kind and our abilities. But I stand here not as an enemy but as a guardian of our kingdom."

Her words hung in the air, and for a moment, the room fell silent. I could see some faces softening, but Theron was quick to interject.

"And yet, how can we trust someone whose magic is primal and untamed?" he challenged, his voice smooth but cutting.

The crowd shifted, uncertainty returning to their faces. I felt Bianca tense beside me, her resolve unwavering.

"Primal magic can be a force for good," she countered, her gaze steady on Theron. "I have chosen to use my abilities to protect this kingdom, to fight against the very darkness that threatens us."

But Theron pressed on. "And what of the loyalty of your kin? How can we be certain they will not side with Emily in a moment of chaos?"

His words ignited a flicker of panic among the nobles. I could feel the tension rising, and I stepped forward. "Enough! This is not a trial; this is a moment for unity. We are stronger together than divided by fear!"

The murmurs grew louder, and I could sense the tide turning. Theron's manipulation had taken root, but it was up to us to uproot it.

Bianca's POV

As Ethan spoke passionately, I could see some of the nobles shifting their perspectives, but Theron's words continued to echo. I knew I had to respond with clarity and strength.

"Let me remind you," I said, my voice cutting through the noise, "that I have always fought for this kingdom, just as you all have. I have sacrificed for our people. My loyalty lies with Ethan and this realm. I urge you to look beyond your fears and see the truth."

The hall remained charged, eyes darting between us and Theron. I could feel the weight of their expectations, the flicker of doubt lingering in the air.

But just as I thought I had made some headway, Theron's voice rang out once more. "What will happen when your kin comes for you? Will you protect us then?"

His question landed like a stone, and I saw the fear spread through the crowd.

"We cannot ignore the risks!" he pressed. "What if Emily has already infiltrated our defenses through Bianca?"

I felt a surge of anger but channeled it into my response. "If you want to distrust me based on fear, then you're playing into Emily's hands. We must unite against her, not against each other!"

Ethan stepped closer to me, his presence a grounding force. "Bianca is right. This division is what Emily seeks. We must strengthen our bonds, not shatter them."