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The chairman’s eyebrows rose in surprise, while Maria’s eyes narrowed further, her suspicion not abating. The chairman held the tablet up, displaying it to everyone in the chamber. The council members’ eyes wide as they took in the glowing symbols. A murmur of amazement rippled through the room.
“What do the symbols mean?” Erin asked, her voice barely audible above the whispers in the room. “Nine of out of what? Ten? A hundred?”
The chairman studied the symbols for a moment before addressing the council. “These symbols represent the strength and intensity of Erin’s divine connection. The more symbols that glow, the stronger her abilities. Nine is quite remarkable. It is rare for a devotee to possess such power.”
Erin’s chest tightened, and she looked at Blaine, who seemed both awed and concerned by the results. She couldn’t help but wonder how this revelation would affect their already precarious relationship.
Maria scoffed, her voice dripping with contempt. “Remarkable or not, it changes nothing. She still refuses to submit to the council, and we have every right to be cautious of someone with this level of power.”
Erin couldn’t help but ask, “How do my abilities compare to others in the city?”
The chairman considered her question for a moment before answering, “The devotees in our city possess a varying range of abilities. As I said before, yours is quite remarkable.”
The chairman’s dodging of her question could only mean one thing: Erin’s devotee powers must be some of the strongest. Erin’s mind flashed back to her brawl with Daniel, only now realizing that she’d been able to beat the devotee of Ares because she was more magically powerful. She then shared a look with Blaine, wondering what to make of their interactions in this new light. Could they be two of the strongest god-touched beings in the city? If so, who was stronger?
The chairman continued, his gaze locked on Erin. “Let us not forget that the purpose of our council is to maintain balance and order, not to oppress those who have been chosen by the gods.”
He turned back to the council members. “We will continue to monitor the situation, as previously agreed. Ms. Bevin, you are free to leave, but know that our eyes are on you and your temple. Should we deem it necessary, we will take action.”
Erin nodded, her heart pounding in her chest. “I understand.”
With a last look at Blaine, who offered her a small, reassuring nod, Erin turned and left the council chamber. As she walked down the marble corridor, she couldn’t shake the feeling that everything had changed. The council’s knowledge of her power only heightened the stakes, and she knew she would need to tread carefully in the days ahead. The revelation that she and Blaine were the most powerful devotees in the city added an extra layer of complexity to their relationship, and she couldn’t help but wonder what the future held for them.
But for now, Erin focused on the task at hand: she still had six days to prove the worth of her temple to the city. And she was more determined than ever to fight for her cause, whatever the consequences.
CHAPTER43
ERIN
Erin walked away from the council chambers, her heart pounding and her emotions a chaotic whirlwind. She felt a mix of anxiety and determination, knowing that her future was far from certain. What did it mean to be a ninth ring of power devotee? Would she have more sway, or would she be stuck with more expectations?
As she turned a corner, she encountered Jake, Blaine’s butler, who she remembered had served him loyally for years.
“Miss Erin,” Jake said, his voice gentle and respectful. “I saw you leaving the council chambers. May I offer you a ride home?”
Erin studied him, considering the offer. “Yes, thank you,” she finally replied, grateful for the opportunity to collect her thoughts during the ride.
As they walked together toward the parked Bentley, Erin couldn’t help but feel curious about the relationship between Blaine and his butler. She also felt a flutter in her stomach as she asked, “Jake, do you trust Blaine?” her voice was hesitant.
Jake looked at her thoughtfully, as if weighing his response. “Miss Erin, I have known Blaine for many years. He is a man of integrity and vision, who has brought significant improvements to this city since he came to power. I am proud to serve him, and he has never once given me reason to question his allegiance or dedication to this city.”
Erin listened carefully to Jake’s words, her curiosity piqued. “What improvements do you mean?” she asked, eager to understand more about the man she was growing closer to.
Jake smiled, his eyes far away as he recounted some changes he had witnessed. “Well, for one, he has worked tirelessly to improve the infrastructure of the city, making it more accessible and efficient while also reducing derelict buildings. It’s been an honor to witness the positive changes he’s brought to our home.”
Erin chewed on her lip. She witnessed those changes for herself, hadn’t she? Thinking back through the past few years, she remembered seeing new buildings and public transportation expand, but it didn’t seem that significant, just minor changes that didn’t really move the needle for those stuck in the depths of poverty and suffering.
“That’s great and all, but from what I can see, your loyalty runs deeper than just appreciation for some social projects. Can you tell me what makes him so special to you?”
Jake smiled, and there was warmth in his eyes. “Of course, Erin. Blaine has done a lot for my family and me. When my wife fell gravely ill a few years ago, we couldn’t afford the expensive medical treatments she needed. Blaine stepped in without hesitation, not only covering the costs but also ensuring she received the best care available. He didn’t have to do that, but he did, and I’ll never forget it.” Jake paused before adding, “Aside from his generosity, Blaine has a certain charm and charisma that captures people’s attention, including yours.”
Erin listened intently, touched by the depth of Blaine’s kindness.
Jake continued. “He’s also been a great mentor to me. He’s taught me so much about politics, leadership, and the importance of integrity. I’ve seen firsthand how he’s improved this city since he took office, and it’s not just about his power as a devotee of Zeus. He genuinely cares for the people he serves, and he works tirelessly to make their lives better. That’s why I trust him and why I’m loyal to him.”
Erin nodded, understanding that Blaine’s actions had earned him the unwavering loyalty of those closest to him. Jake’s personal story provided her with valuable insight into Blaine’s character and gave her hope that he could be trusted despite the uncertainties surrounding the shifts in their relationship and the council’s scrutiny.
As they approached the Bentley, Erin felt a greater sense of trust in Blaine, knowing that he had earned Jake’s unwavering loyalty. “Thank you, Jake,” she whispered. “I appreciate your honesty.”
