NINETY EIGHT: A Myth

"It seems everyone is too afraid to dance on the same floor as us."

Taegus scanned the room with a light-hearted smile, as if he hadn't just caused the greatest stir of the night.

"You're crazy," Kel hissed. "Just moments ago, the Emperor was talking about killing you--KILLING you."

"Was he?" Taegus gave her a slick smirk. "I can't say I'm surprised by that."

Kel shook her head. Was the golden-eyed boy brave or just stupid? Surely he could read the room enough to know that what he did was completely inappropriate.

"Why did you have to make up that nonsense about 'good faith' between an Emperor and his new subject," Kel sighed. "Was it really just for a single dance?"

"Wrong on both accounts," Taegus replied, spinning her under his arm. "The pri-I mean former prince would have asked you himself, but I volunteered in his place."

"Wait.. why?" Kel tilted her head. 

Taegus chuckled.