Nine Hot Therians and Their Only One Queen novel Chapter 70

**When She Opened the Door to the Life She Was Afraid to Live**
**by Nora Vale Kingsley**

**Chapter 70: Edric Was Furious**

“I realize we need to engage in a crucial conversation with the Enchanter Clan. We’ve already initiated contact with Malrik,” Ethan declared, his tone firm yet tinged with urgency.

“But the Grand Elder from the royal family has determined that Prince Louis and Commander Hamblin are not ensnared by the Chitinids,” he continued, his brow knitted in concern. “They remain somewhere within the Empire.”

Ethan’s voice faltered for a brief moment, his expression darkening. “We fear they might be gravely injured and stranded on a remote planet, unable to find their way back. That’s why I came to you.”

In the boundless expanse of the cosmos, there was no organization more adept than the Interstellar Hunter Alliance when it came to tracking down individuals lost on distant worlds. Their resources were extensive, and their members were dispersed across the galaxy, capable of reaching even the most isolated corners of existence.

“All right, fine! Since you’re my brother, I’ll do my utmost to assist you,” Edric replied, his voice laced with an unwilling acceptance.

Despite his typical demeanor, Edric found it impossible to deny Ethan’s request. Their bond had always been intricate; throughout their upbringing, it was Ethan who had consistently been his protector, offering unwavering support when no one else would.

As Edric finally acquiesced, Ethan released a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding. “We need to locate them as swiftly as possible. Every second that Prince Louis and Commander Hamblin remain unaccounted for only heightens their danger.”

Edric nodded, determination igniting in his deep-set eyes. “Understood. I’ll mobilize our people at once.”

Once their discussion concluded, Ethan’s expression softened, and he reached into his pocket, retrieving a small, elegant velvet box. “I heard you’ve found your huntress. I’ve been swamped lately and haven’t had a chance to congratulate you properly. This is a little something I prepared for you.”

Edric accepted the box, curiosity and excitement bubbling within him. When he opened it, his eyes widened in awe at the sight of an exceptionally pure Level 10 beast core nestled within. It was exactly what he needed to elevate his abilities to the next level.

He had already managed to gather two on his own, so he hadn’t anticipated that Ethan would bring him another.

“Thanks, Ethan,” he said, genuine gratitude spilling from his lips.

“I’m your big brother. No need for thanks,” Ethan chuckled, giving Edric a friendly pat on the shoulder. However, his expression turned serious as he regarded him with a hint of concern. “How’s your huntress treating you?”

Ethan felt a wave of relief wash over him at the thought of Edric finding someone special, yet a nagging worry lingered in the back of his mind. Would she truly accept Edric? After all, cold-blooded therian males were often viewed with skepticism by females, and Edric had a notorious reputation for being stubborn and brooding.

The mere mention of Emma brought a radiant glow to Edric’s face, a stark contrast to his usual serious demeanor. “Ethan, Emma’s been incredible. I feel so fortunate to have found a huntress who genuinely cares for me, just like you have.”

Ethan couldn’t help but smile at the evident joy in Edric’s voice. It was a relief to see his brother so content, a stark contrast to the brooding figure he often portrayed.

“As a male, it’s not appropriate for me to visit your huntress alone. Next time, I’ll bring mine along, and we can all enjoy dinner together,” Ethan proposed, a hint of mischief dancing in his tone.

Edric’s smile widened, and he nodded eagerly. “Absolutely! Emma has taught me how to roast beast meat, and I must say, it’s fantastic. I’ll ask her, and if she’s on board, I’ll prepare a feast for you and your huntress next time.”

Such skills learned from a huntress were not meant to be flaunted in front of just anyone, not even family. That was the unspoken rule they both understood, a bond that strengthened their connection.

Corvin was fine; he was Emma’s suitor, and as long as he didn’t disrupt her rest, Edric could tolerate it. But the sight of that damn bird snuggling so close to Emma…

Damn it…

Edric’s fury boiled over, icy killing intent radiating from him as he reached out, ready to snatch the insufferable bird and wring its neck. Just as he was about to act, he noticed Emma’s lashes fluttering as she began to wake.

Always alert, Emma felt the sudden chill in the air and snapped her eyes open, locking onto Edric’s shocked and flustered expression. For a brief moment, her mind went blank, caught off guard by his presence.

Edric was taken aback, realizing he had just woken Emma from her slumber.

Panic surged through him, and his body tensed as his tail writhed uncontrollably against the floor. He desperately wanted to explain, to clarify the situation, but his mouth refused to cooperate. He stood there, shaking, unable to utter a single word.

As Edric stood frozen in the doorway, the chaotic storm of emotions within him began to settle, revealing a deeper truth beneath his anger. The sight of Emma, peaceful and unguarded, reminded him of the fragile beauty of their connection. His instinct to protect her surged, but so did a profound sense of vulnerability. In that moment, he realized that his fierce emotions were not just about jealousy or rage; they were rooted in a fierce love that had taken root in his heart. Edric’s struggle to articulate his feelings mirrored his journey of growth, as he grappled with the duality of his nature—both the fierce protector and the uncertain lover.

Emma’s awakening shifted the dynamics between them, pulling Edric from his tempestuous thoughts into a shared reality. Their eyes locked, and in that instant, the world around them faded, leaving only the two of them suspended in a moment of unspoken understanding. Edric’s heart raced, not just from the fear of losing her to the closeness of Corvin, but from the realization that he was ready to embrace the life he once feared. He was ready to step through the door of vulnerability and commitment, to forge a future with Emma that was as beautiful as it was uncertain. This moment marked a turning point for Edric, a step toward not just protecting her, but truly living alongside her, embracing the love that had blossomed between them, despite the chaos of their lives.

**What to Expect in the Next Chapter?**
As the tension in the air thickens, readers can anticipate a whirlwind of emotions as Edric grapples with his protective instincts and the unexpected vulnerability of waking Emma. The delicate balance of his fierce nature and the gentle affection he holds for her will be put to the test, creating an electrifying atmosphere that promises to leave readers on the edge of their seats. Will Edric’s jealousy over Corvin’s closeness to Emma lead to a confrontation, or will he find a way to express his feelings without scaring her away? The stakes are high, and the outcome is uncertain, making the next chapter a must-read for fans eager to witness the evolution of their relationship.

Moreover, the looming threat of Prince Louis and Commander Hamblin’s perilous situation adds another layer of urgency to the narrative. With Edric now committed to aiding Ethan in their search, there’s potential for exciting developments that could intertwine the fates of the characters in unexpected ways. Will Edric’s mission to rescue the missing royals pull him away from Emma at a crucial moment, or will he find a way to balance both his responsibilities and his burgeoning romance? As secrets unfold and alliances are tested, the next chapter promises to deliver heart-pounding action and emotional depth that will keep readers eagerly turning the pages.