The glow spreading across my skin catches me off guard. I stare at my hands, watching the familiar patterns pulse with new intensity, stronger than I've ever seen before.

  "What the hell?" I mutter, more to myself than to Lord Harrowmont who stands beside me on the wall.

  The crystal lens hanging at my chest responds in kind, matching the rhythmic pulses coursing through my body. The sensation is familiar yet different, like the opening of a bond slot, but with an intensity that makes my previous experiences seem like mere echoes.

  "The sixth slot," I whisper in realization.

  I'd thought my limit was five lieutenants. After bonding with Nerk, Morrigan, Gorthal, Morkath, and finally Crystallis, the pathways had seemed to close. Yet here it is, a sixth bond slot opening with unmistakable power.

  Gorthal approaches the wall, both axes in hand. The fragment weapon taken from Vraknoth pulses in synchronization with my crystal lens, as if recognizing the connection.

  "Victory complete," he announces, his metallic skin patterns still glowing from battle. "Fragment secured."

  I barely hear him, too focused on the sensations coursing through me. This new pathway feels different, stronger than the previous five. As if it's been accumulating energy all this time, waiting for the right catalyst.

  "Monster Lord," Gorthal says, his layered voice cutting through my distraction. "Your markings..."

  "I know," I reply, finding my voice. "A sixth bond slot. I didn't think it was possible."

  Nerk lands his wyvern nearby, dismounting with fluid precision as he approaches. His tactical eyes assess me immediately, recognizing what's happening without explanation.

  The defenders along the wall stare at us with a mixture of awe and lingering fear. They've just witnessed an impossible victory, three thousand raiders routed in less than an hour by forces that appeared from nowhere and fought with supernatural efficiency.

  Lord Harrowmont clears his throat. "Monster Lord, your assistance has saved countless lives today. The northern provinces stand in your debt."

  I'm about to respond when the glow pulses brighter. At the same moment, Princess Eliana appears at the top of the stairs, accompanied by Morrigan. Her face is flushed with excitement, eyes bright despite the lingering danger.

  "It's over already?" she asks, scanning the battlefield with obvious surprise. "The people in the square can hardly believe it when the news arrived."

  As she approaches, something extraordinary happens. The new pathway within me pulses strongly toward her. The sensation is unmistakable, the same resonance I felt when first encountering my lieutenants, but with a clarity and strength that takes my breath away.

  I can bond with her.

  The realization staggers me. Humans. I can bond with human beings now.

  "John?" Eliana asks, concern replacing her excitement as she notices my expression. "Are you alright? You're glowing."

  "I'm fine," I manage, though my mind races with implications. "Just... experiencing something unexpected."

  My tamer ability isn't limited to monsters. It's much more complex than I realized. And Eliana, her natural leadership, intelligence, and royal bloodline make her an ideal candidate.

  As Morrigan approaches, her transformed features show immediate understanding of what's happening. "The sixth pathway seeks connection."

  "What does that mean?" Eliana asks, looking between us.

  Lord Harrowmont interrupts before I can attempt an explanation. "Your Highness, Monster Lord, I suggest we move this discussion inside. Though the raiders have fled, the battlefield remains dangerous."

  He gestures toward a large building near the center of the settlement. "My family's manor has been prepared for your comfort. We'll hold a celebratory banquet tomorrow, after you've had a chance to rest and see our northern territories properly."

  "Thank you," I reply automatically, still processing the implications of my new bond capability. "That would be great."

  As we make our way down from the wall, I notice how the defenders bow not just to Princess Eliana but to me as well. Word of our victory has spread quickly, and with it a new kind of respect mixed with something deeper. Not mere fear or awe, but something closer to reverence.

  I'm not sure I like it.

  ---

  "Humans," I say, sitting by the fire in the comfortable guest chamber in Lord Harrowmont's manor. "I can bond with humans."

  My lieutenants have gathered to discuss this development, their reactions varied but thoughtful.

  "Makes sense when you think about it," I continue, more to myself than to them. "The network has been growing stronger with each new bond. This is just the next step."

  "Initial bonds established foundation," Nerk observes from his position by the window. "Natural progression to expand beyond monster species."

  "But humans?" I shake my head, still wrapping my mind around it. "That changes everything."

  "The distinction between 'monster' and 'human' is primarily cultural, not biological," Morrigan points out. "Many so-called monsters possess intelligence comparable to humans. The difference is perception."

  "Humans most numerous race on continent," Gorthal adds, his metallic patterns shifting thoughtfully. "Recruitment potential massive. Network energy multiplication significant."

  I nod, connecting the dots easily. Just as Nerk brought more goblins into the network, and Gorthal his blood-warriors, humans could bring unprecedented numbers. With their natural intelligence and adaptability, the enhancement potential would be enormous.

  "And Princess Eliana?" I ask, finally addressing what we're all thinking. "She's clearly compatible. I could feel it the moment she approached."

  "Royal bloodline likely factor," Gorthal suggests. "Fragment crown creates natural resonance with bond network."

  "There's also political advantage," Morrigan adds carefully. "A bonded royal would create legitimate connection to established human kingdom. Our territory would gain recognition beyond military capability alone."

  "Eliana seems nice and all," I admit, "but this is a huge step. Bonding is permanent. It would tie us to Dawnhaven's politics forever."

  "Decision requires consideration," Nerk acknowledges.

  "There's also the political complication," Morrigan points out. "A lieutenant cannot maintain divided loyalties. Her first duty would need to be to the Monster Lord, not Dawnhaven."

  "Wait, so you're saying she'd have to abandon her kingdom?" I ask, surprised by this implication.

  "Not abandon," Gorthal corrects, his metallic patterns shifting thoughtfully. "Incorporate. Dawnhaven would become extension of bond network. Princess would rule as queen eventually, but ultimate authority would flow through you."

  "So basically... Dawnhaven would become part of our territory?" The political ramifications suddenly dawn on me. "That's a lot bigger than just adding another lieutenant."

  "Exactly," Morrigan confirms. "This is not merely a personal bond, but a territorial annexation through royal bloodline. The princess must understand this - she cannot serve two masters. If she joins the bond network, her kingdom becomes part of your domain."

  Nerk's tactical eyes narrow slightly. "Network stability requires unified loyalties. Previous lieutenants all acknowledge Monster Lord as primary authority. Royal human with external allegiances represents potential vulnerability."

  "Princess must become queen of Dawnhaven," Gorthal states bluntly. "But as queen who serves Monster Lord first. Otherwise, bond represents weakness rather than strength."

  "So basically... Dawnhaven would become part of our territory?" I consider this for a moment. "Actually, isn't that already what her father wants? He's been trying to marry her off to me since we arrived."

  "Marriage alliance different from bond network," Gorthal clarifies. "Human marriages maintain separate powers, negotiations, compromises. Bond network requires absolute primacy of Monster Lord."

  "He's right," Morrigan adds. "The king envisions a traditional alliance where he maintains control until his death, then you and Eliana would rule jointly, balancing interests between your territories. What we're discussing would effectively place Dawnhaven under your direct authority much sooner, with the princess serving as your representative rather than an equal partner."

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  "The bond network doesn't really do 'equal partners,'" I realize. "It's more of a... hierarchy."

  "Precisely," Morrigan confirms. "The king offers political marriage. We propose territorial absorption."

  I run a hand through my hair, considering the challenge ahead. "I don't even know how to begin this conversation. 'Hey, want to join my monster army and put your kingdom under my authority?' isn't exactly a great opener."

  "Perhaps just speak honestly," Gorthal suggests. "Princess demonstrated intelligence during crisis."

  "I should talk to her tonight," I decide, standing up. "Before tomorrow's celebrations make everything more complicated."

  The more I think about it, the more complicated it seems. I've always struggled to explain the exact nature of my abilities, even to myself. Maybe I should just be direct and hope she understands.

  ---

  Princess Eliana

  I've just finished braiding my hair for the night when a soft knock sounds at my chamber door. The hour is late, well past the time for proper visitors. I hesitate, wondering if I should call for my lady's maid who sleeps in the adjoining room.

  "Princess?" A familiar voice, slightly muffled by the heavy door. "It's John. I need to talk to you about something important."

  My heart leaps inexplicably. The Monster Lord, seeking a private audience at this hour? I glance at my reflection in the polished metal mirror. My nightdress is modest but hardly appropriate for receiving visitors. Yet something in his voice suggests urgency.

  I throw a shawl around my shoulders for propriety's sake and move to the door, opening it just enough to see him standing in the hallway. He's changed from his battle-stained formal wear into simpler clothing, though the crystal lens still hangs at his chest, pulsing with soft light.

  "John," I say, surprised at how steady my voice sounds despite my racing pulse. "This is... unexpected."

  "I'm sorry about the hour," he replies, looking genuinely apologetic. "But this couldn't wait until morning."

  I hesitate only briefly before stepping back, opening the door wider. "Come in, then."

  As he enters, I'm acutely aware of the impropriety of the situation. A princess receiving a man in her private chambers after dark would scandalize the court. Yet here in the northern provinces, far from palace protocols, such conventions seem strangely distant. Besides, after riding a crystal drake into battle and watching trolls emerge from swamplands, proper etiquette feels like a minor concern.

  "Is everything alright?" I ask, noticing his troubled expression. "Have the raiders returned?"

  "No, nothing like that," he assures me. "It's about what happened on the wall. The glowing. You noticed it, right?"

  I nod, recalling the strange patterns that had spread across his skin. "It was hard to miss. You looked... transformed somehow."

  He paces a few steps, seeming unsure how to begin. "There's something important I need to discuss with you. Something that happened today on the battlefield."

  "What is it?" I ask, curiosity piqued by his uncharacteristic nervousness.

  "Right." He stops pacing and faces me directly. "You know I have this... ability to form special connections with certain compatible individuals. It's something deeper than ordinary bonds."

  I take a seat at the small writing desk, gesturing for him to take the chair near the fireplace. "And this relates to what happened today?"

  He sits, leaning forward earnestly. "Yes. Today I felt something I've never experienced before. And when you approached on the wall, I realized..." He pauses, as if searching for the right words. "I believe I could form that kind of special connection with you."

  My breath catches. A special connection? With me? My heart begins to race as I process his words. After a lifetime at court where every interaction is calculated for political advantage, his earnest confession feels startlingly genuine. Is he suggesting what I think he's suggesting?

  "What exactly does this connection entail?" I ask, striving to keep my voice neutral despite the warmth spreading across my cheeks.

  "It's permanent," he explains, seemingly oblivious to my flustered state. "We'd be linked in a way that can't be broken. You'd gain certain... enhancements to your natural abilities."

  Enhancements? An unusual choice of words, but perhaps he means that a good partnership does bring out the best in both people.

  "You'd be stronger," he continues. "Not just physically, but in every way that matters. Your natural talents would grow. Your leadership abilities would reach new heights."

  Is he saying we would strengthen each other? That together we could accomplish more than apart? It's an unconventional courtship speech, but there's something refreshingly honest about it.

  "That sounds... quite meaningful," I say, my voice softer than I intended. "To be connected in such a way."

  He looks relieved at my response. "It would be. And I want you to know, I wouldn't suggest this if I didn't think you were special. There's something about you, Eliana, that I've never encountered before."

  He runs a hand through his hair, a gesture I've noticed he makes when uncomfortable. "Look, I'm not saying we should rush into this. I just wanted to discuss the possibility with you in private."

  I study him closely. Did he truly fall in love with me? Does he want more than the political marriage my father has been pushing? Oh, this is so romantic! I thought this was something that only happened to princesses in the stories!

  "I'm honored you would think of me in such a way," I reply carefully, trying to maintain proper decorum.

  "You're the first human I've ever felt this particular connection with," he says, his earnestness oddly endearing. "There's something special about you, Eliana. Something unique."

  My heart flutters at his words. After a lifetime of political machinations and calculated courtships, his straightforward appreciation is refreshingly sincere.

  "And this bond," I venture, "would tie us together permanently?"

  "Exactly," he nods, seemingly relieved at my understanding. "It would bind us in ways that can't be undone. That's why I wanted to talk to you privately, to make sure you understand what it would mean."

  I rise from my chair, moving closer to him. "And if we were to form this bond, we would be together? Committed to each other?"

  "In a sense, yes," he agrees, looking up at me with those strangely ordinary yet compelling eyes. "The bond never breaks once formed."

  My heart races with unexpected joy. John is nothing like the cold, strategic noble boys I usually am forced to interact with. This is something real, something genuine. I've known John for only days, yet there's a sincerity in him I've never found in all the polished nobles who've courted me for years. A connection with him would be about more than crowns and kingdoms, it would be about us.

  "I believe I understand what you're offering," I say softly, standing before him now. "And I'm not opposed to the idea. In fact, I've been thinking about you... about us... since your arrival."

  His expression brightens. "Really? That's great! I wasn't sure how you'd react to the whole bonding thing."

  "Perhaps we should seal this agreement properly," I suggest, emboldened by his enthusiasm and the unusual circumstances.

  I lean down, my heart pounding as I prepare to make the most impulsive decision of my carefully planned life. Our faces are inches apart when he speaks again.

  "So you'd seriously consider being my sixth lieutenant? Joining the bond network alongside Nerk and the others?"

  I freeze, confusion replacing the warmth that had been building. "Your... lieutenant?"

  "Yeah, like Morrigan and Gorthal," he confirms, seemingly puzzled by my hesitation. "You'd be my first human lieutenant, using the sixth bond slot that just opened."

  The heat of mortification floods my face. All this time, he's been talking about some sort of military position in his command structure? Not a romantic relationship?

  I stumble back a step, desperate to hide my embarrassment. "I see. That's... that's certainly an unexpected offer."

  His expression shifts to concern. "Is something wrong? You seemed interested a moment ago."

  "I just..." I struggle to maintain my composure. "I hadn't realized you were offering me a position similar to your other lieutenants."

  John looks confused. "What did you think I was offering?"

  "It doesn't matter," I say hastily, unable to admit the truth. "I simply didn't understand the full nature of the arrangement." I take a steadying breath, my royal training helping me recover my poise despite the lingering embarrassment. "What about my obligations to Dawnhaven?"

  He hesitates, looking more serious now. "I need to be completely honest with you about this part. The bond network isn't just a casual connection, it has a hierarchy. As my lieutenant, your first loyalty would have to be to me, not to your father or even Dawnhaven itself."

  I straighten, surprised by his directness. "You mean you would have authority over me? Over Dawnhaven?"

  "Yes," he admits, watching my reaction carefully. "The bond network isn’t like a traditional alliance between kingdoms or whatever. There's a clear structure, with me at the top."

  "So my kingdom would essentially become yours," I say, understanding dawning.

  "But that doesn't mean you wouldn't rule," he adds quickly. "You would still be queen someday, still make day-to-day decisions. But in matters of true importance, my authority would be final. The benefit is that Dawnhaven would become an integral part of our network. You wouldn't just be my lieutenant on your own, you'd be able to extend the bond network to your subjects."

  My eyes widen. "You mean I could... bond with my own people? The way you've bonded with your monsters?"

  "Exactly," he nods, growing more animated. "The enhanced abilities, the evolution potential, all of it could spread throughout Dawnhaven. Your soldiers, your scholars, your craftspeople. All of them evolving, all of them connected. You wouldn't just rule them as queen, you'd be elevating them to something greater."

  I consider this carefully, the implications staggering. The bond would mean surrendering Dawnhaven's true independence, placing us under the Monster Lord's authority. Yet it would also grant us power beyond anything in our history.

  "And this has never been done before? Bonding with human kingdoms?"

  "Never," he confirms. "You would be the first. It would transform not just you, but potentially your entire realm."

  The opportunity is unprecedented, offering a chance to not only secure Dawnhaven's future but to fundamentally transform it. To create a kingdom unlike any other in history. But at the cost of our autonomy.

  "I need time to consider this properly," I tell him, retreating into diplomatic formality to mask my conflicted emotions. "Such a momentous decision shouldn't be made hastily."

  "Of course," he agrees quickly. "Take all the time you need."

  As he turns to leave, I find myself calling after him. "John?"

  He pauses at the door, looking back questioningly.

  "Regardless of my decision about the bond, I hope we can remain friends. I've enjoyed getting to know you, political machinations aside."

  His smile is warm and genuine. "I'd like that too, Princess."

  After he departs, I sink onto my bed, my mind racing with possibilities. Lieutenant to the Monster Lord, enhanced beyond normal human capabilities, yet still Crown Princess of Dawnhaven. The political implications alone would keep royal advisors debating for months.

  But beneath these practical considerations, a more personal question lingers. Despite the awkward misunderstanding, there had been a moment when I was ready to kiss the Monster Lord, to commit myself to a man I've known for barely two days.

  What does that say about my feelings for John, regardless of magical bonds and political alliances?

  I fall asleep with this question unanswered, the decision about the sixth bond slot still hanging in the balance.