Mira

It took us a few hours to finally choose dresses for me. Raiden had decided I needed lunch, so here we sat in a tiny restaurant that smelled heavenly. He had ordered for both of us and now we sat sipping water awkwardly. I shifted in my seat and winced a bit. "Was I too rough, little one?" he asked, noticing my discomfort.

I blushed, "No, the seat isn't very comfortable, but I, um, like it." I caught a slight growl as he grinned. He quickly schooled his expression when the server arrived. She placed the assorted dishes on the table and I felt my mouth watering. I'd never seen some of the various fruits and dishes she placed. "Wow, did you order one of everything?" I joked, then noticed him give a sheepish look. "Really? Why?"

"I didn't know what you liked, so this way, you try some of everything. Next time, we can only order what you really like," he explained as he placed a delicious-looking pasta on my plate along with fresh greens.

I took a few bites and moaned softly - It was so good. I saw his eyes darken when I looked up and blushed, "Sorry." He looked like he wanted to put me on the table. "Hey, wait, you said next time. Raiden, while I appreciate what you have done, I simply can't stay. I can't bring my troubles to your kingdom."

He sighed, "Mira, we've already discussed this. I can offer you safety, and Taj can continue to seek a way to nullify the pact. You don't have to do this alone. Besides, magic brought us together for a reason, don't ignore that."

"I'll agree, but with a few conditions," I replied. He eyed me suspiciously and nodded. "I want to help. I want to work with Taj and learn more so that I can defend myself."

Raiden pressed his fingers together, his eyebrows knit together. He reached across and took my hand, "If it keeps you safe, little one, then yes, I agree. Is that your only condition?"

I grinned, "Nope. I want you to show me your kingdom. I've only seen the marketplace, but it's so beautiful and I've never seen anything like it. I want to see everything!" I was practically bouncing with excitement and he laughed at me as he agreed. Then he picked up a decadent-looking pastry and held it to my lips as I took a bite and moaned again. I get the feeling I'm going to be doing that a lot around Raiden.

Unknown POV

I was surprised to see the King having lunch with a woman at such a simple diner. He usually stuck to palace events or the shipyards for his outings. In all my years as a spy in Thuradok, his schedule was fairly predictable. Tracking his demonic summonings was less predictable, but still entertaining and the pay was well worth my time.

I studied the attractive woman sitting next to him. Her emerald eyes were striking and very expressive. One minute she looked like an innocent child, then the next a temptress bent on mischief as she spoke with the King. She would twist her dark hair when she thought no one was looking, then quickly push it behind her ear when being addressed. She was an alluring creature that's for sure, but who was she? I'd never seen her in the city before. I'd need to do some investigating before reporting back, but I'm certain my employers will be interested.

Watching them leave, I noticed the King placed a protective hand on the small of her back. Yes, they will definitely be interested in her...

Author's Notes: short but needed...