Page 246 of The Gods Order

Or worse, he has Seveous on the move.

“I was already walking in when Faron met me in the Division,” I say. “I needed to speak to both of you urgently.”

They glance at one another, then straighten their shoulders. The tension in mine makes it obvious this is serious.

“What’s happening in the realm?” Zareb asks.

“War is upon us. The God of Boundaries is outside Hell right now, strengthening the barrier. I wanted to tell you in person rather than risk writing a letter. There will be no coming in or out of Hell until this is over.”

They stare at me like I’ve misspoken.

“The God of Boundaries has returned?” Zareb asks.

“Yes.”

“And you have him locking Hell down?” Phoelius asks.

It isn’t a simple question, but there’s no accusation in his tone.

For the first time since Hell was created, I don’t think anyone—not even me—will be able to leave once Val is done.

Just the way I want it.

Kira has stolen enough from this realm.

He won’t be stealing anyone from here again.

“I am.”

He nods slowly.

“War must really be here then. That would explain Delun tucking tail and running. Does your father already know you’re doing this?”

“No, but we just hit him massively in the Abandon. He’s preparing.”

“Then we shall prepare as well. If he or any other are able to slip through the God of Boundaries’ barrier, we’ll be ready for them,” Zareb declares.

I dip my head.

“Thank you.”

“No thanks needed. Yet,” Phoelius says with a small smirk. “After all is said and done, I’d like a few weeks’ vacation.”

I huff a small laugh.

“I’ll make it happen.”

He gives me a nod, then he and Zareb murmur a few plans before heading off.

I don’t leave immediately. My feet carry me closer to the edge of the ridge, and I take a moment to gaze over it. There’s so much work still to be done here.

For the first time in my life, I want to do the work.

“Phoelius is right,” Gladian grunts as he appears beside me. “I’ve been here far too often lately.”

“Please,” Barir scoffs. “Try hundreds of years, then complain to someone about it.”

I’m not going to convince his ass to take a role here again when all is said and done.