“Did you all have something more important to do?”
“No,” Akari answers as she quickens her pace to catch up to me.
Elias doesn’t say anything, but he rolls alongside his brother, following me to the first set of civilians who are already training with Jace and Roman.
“Thought you guys could use a few extra pairs of hands.”
The two of them look at Akari, Elias, and Emeric like I’ve just gifted them an arsenal.
“Welcome to the team,” Roman says, offering his hand to Elias. “We sure as hell could use some help around here.”
“Then you’ve got the right people,” Akari reassures.
“Looks like you guys got it handled, so I’ll leave you to it.”
As the five of them fade away behind the wall of black, I feel a small sense of accomplishment settle in my chest. It’s been a long week, and I needed one more win before leaving tomorrow.
Chapter 30
Reign
Getting to have Amaya come along to the Infinite Sea Territories is a much-needed comfort. Besides needing her as a buffer between me and Damien, it’s too soon for us to be separated again.
“You two ready?” Ryder asks when he shows up outside of Amaya’s room.
“We’re good to go!” Amaya grabs her bag and hands me mine.
“Perfect. I’ve already dropped Damien off, so it’s just you guys left.”
He wraps an arm around both of us as we tightly cling to him. A breath later, the four of us are standing in an open room with polished gold accents and white marble floors that remind meof the palace in Strellesia.
“Welcome to Zentria,” a voice bellows behind us.
We turn to find three identical men strolling towards us. If it weren’t for the different-colored robes they wear, I wouldn’t be able to tell them apart. Every feature, from their shiny, bald heads to their flawless, glowing skin and sharp jawlines, is a perfect replica of the one standing next to them. The one in the middle, wearing the crisp white robe, steps forward to shake each of our hands while the other two stop a few feet away.
“Thank you for having us,” Ryder says in a formal tone I’m not used to hearing. “This is Reign and Amaya,” he motions to us, and we both offer a slight bow. “And of course, you’re already familiar with Damien.
“It’s a pleasure,” he nods. “I’m Ion. This is Nio.” He turns to the one standing to his right dressed in navy blue. “And this is Zaro,” he adds, waving to the other, who dons a finely stitched gold robe.
I don’t know what I expected this place, or its people to be like, but they’re far more regal than I would’ve imagined. The way they move is smooth and effortless. Even the way they walk is almost like they’re floating, and despite being almost the same height as Amaya, they have a way about them that exudes power and confidence.
The man who goes by Ion tells us to take a seat while two people come and take our bags. I shift in the cushioned, white seat uncomfortably as the three leaders stare back at us from their own chairs. Amaya offers me a quick half-smile, but I can tell she’s just as anxious as I am.
“So,” the man in blue begins. “You’ve decided to dethrone your father?”
Everyone’s attention turns to Ryder, who is sitting back looking cool and collected. “He’ll never give up the throne alive. I have no intention of simply claiming his throne formyself. The Shadow Lands are my home and where I wish to stay.”
I whirl around to Amaya, who only shrugs. Ryder and I hadn’t really talked about what happens if our side wins. I would’ve assumed that he would take his place in the kingdom. Someone has to rule the realms from within. If it’s not going to be him, then who?
“Why not just keep to the Shadow Lands? Why start a war?” Ion questions.
“Because, despite the Shadow Lands being my home now, the Great Six Realms are still my responsibility. They’re the home of my people, and I won’t abandon them.” Ryder leans forward, resting his elbows on his knees. “With that being said, I’ll need someone I trust to rule the realms as my representative. Of course, I still plan to visit and will claim a second home in Strellesia, but I’ll need someone there full time.”
This seems to pique their interest. “Is that what you’re offering for our allegiance, King Cimmerian?” the one in gold inquires.
“Ryder works just fine. I don’t wish to be associated with my father.” The three men nod in unison in a way that is slightly creepy. “But yes, it is what I’m offering if I feel this visit goes well.”
“And what makes you think we want to rule more lands?” the one in navy, who I think goes by Nio, counters.
