The Lycan King and His Dark Temptation Novel

---- him and his nobles! I get that he owns these lands, but is he planning to drive us all to extinction?" BAM! The woman stood, slamming her hands on the wooden table.

I furtively grabbed Elliots hand under the table, squeezing it in silent support.

I knew he felt responsible, and in part, he was.

But this had been orchestrated in his name by someone else.

"T told you not to complain so much in front of our guests! Do you think they can solve our problems? Stop tormenting them!" she shouted, angry.

"But" "Its alright, Mrs.

Nora.

Dont worry.

Im glad to hear how people live here.

I...

didnt know things were this bad in the south," Elliot said, his voice deep and serious.

His hand squeezed mine before letting go.

"[m sorryI need some air," he suddenly said, getting up and striding out of the tiny, rundown living room, which held only a brick fireplace, two rocking chairs, and this dining table.

"Tm sorry, I just get so angry whenever I talk about the Duke.

What a disgrace, in front of you both," the man said, slightly ashamed.

It was clear he had been a hard worker all his liferugged, tanned by the sun, tall and strong, a bit rough around the edges, but both seemed like good people.

Ireassured him that it was fine, that we appreciated their hospitality and their willingness to share what little they had with us.

---- "Tl help you with the dishes." Dinner had ended on a tense note, so I stood to help Mrs.

Nora.

"Oh no, dear, dont worry.

Youre still weakrest.

Or better yet, Ill tell Aldo to heat some water so you can both have a proper bath with medicinal herbs.

Its the best thing for you," she insisted, practically pushing me out of the kitchen.

I didnt insist.

I headed back to the bedroom, but the moment I sat on the bed, I was already bored.

The cot was narrow and hard, the only decoration an old chest in the corner.

There was nothing to do.

I quietly cracked open the door and snuck out into the living room.

Muffled voices filtered from the kitchen.

"_I checked their clothes.

Even though they were dirty and torn, you could tell they were high quality.

They might be nobles.

How could you complain like that?" Mrs.

Nora continued scolding her husband.

..Well, I thought...

I was sure the man was one of our own.

Did you see how he reacted in the river...?" "He didnt admit it, even when you practically spelled it out for him.

Maybe you were wrong.

Or maybe he just doesnt trust usand that would be the wisest choice.

We cant draw attention, Aldo..." "Says the one who insisted on rescuing them," he scoffed.

I stopped eavesdropping before they caught me.

I didnt fully understand their words, but I silently slipped out through the slightly open living room door.