That Prince Is A Girl: The Vicious King’s Slave Mate Novel

Chapter 778: As he entered the court corridors, Ottai spotted him immediately and beamed. "Congratulations."

Soon after, Vladya joined them, looking both relieved and pleased. Daemonikai wasn't sure what gave it away-whether it was the ease in his muscles, the subtle satisfaction clinging to his every step, or the unmistakable calm that had settled over his presence-but both men had seen it. They knew his instincts had been sated, that his bond with Emeriel had returned.

"You have no idea how glad I am," Ottai said, his voice carrying emotion. Daemonikai snorted. "I think I do, actually. It's written all over your face, Ottai."

He turned to him. "How is Morina?" Ottai grimaced. "Full heat recovery is a bitch, but she's doing better now, thank Ukrae. I hate seeing her in pain."

"Don't we all," Daemonikai murmured, clasping Ottai's shoulder.

As Ottai walked ahead into the court, Daemonikai glanced over at Vladya, who wore a sheepish look-a rare sight for him.

"Look, I want to apologize for the other night," Vladya said. "For the way I spoke to you. I shouldn't have-"

"Aekeira really has you by the balls now, doesn't she?" Daemonikai arched a brow. "Since when do you apologize for being a brat?"

That did it. Vladya relaxed and rolled his eyes. "I'm trying to be mature, and you're ruining it."

"There's nothing to apologize for," Daemonikai said simply. "Truth is, that night I wanted to deck you. And I probably would have if I'd woken up this morning the same male I was when I walked into Frostfall two nights ago, but I'm not. What you said… it was the push I needed. And I'm grateful for that."

Vladya's eyes lit up. "So, the bond is really back? You can feel it?"

"I can," Daemonikai smiled, placing a hand to his chest. "Right here."

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"You left it open? You're not shielding?" Vladya chuckled. "That's not very responsible of you, Grand King Daemonikai."

Hearing his past reprimands thrown back at him wasn't the most enjoyable experience, but Daemonikai owned it with a grunt. "Give me a damn break. I haven't felt this bond in ages."

Tradition dictated that a Urekai never left their bond open outside of private quarters-whether with a partner or a bloodhost. In public, shielding was required. Leaving it open meant exposure, feeling your bonded's emotions in real time, which could easily distract from court matters and other daily obligations.

"You'll have to shield once we step into court," Vladya reminded him.

"I know. It's only still open because Emeriel's sleeping."

"I understand," Vladya waved it off. "I was just messing with you." Then his tone grew serious. "Congratulations, Daemon. I know how much this meant to you."

Daemonikai gave a silent nod, mouthing a soft thank you. "When your rituals are completed, and your soul is restored, you'll also get to feel your bond to Aekeira in its fullest, pulsing, purest form. Everything you've been missing… it's only a matter of time."

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