AllFreeNovel
Share Us
I sniffed. “What do you want me to do, Your Majesty?”
He smiled, his hand coming to mine with a firm grasp despite its pale color.
“Redemption,” he said softly. “The siren who destroyed the Guardians of the Eros will now become one.”
CHAPTER 41—CALLING
“Will you stop fidgeting?” Hugo asked. “Even in a human body, you still don’t listen.”
“At least she’s willing to cooperate this time,” Vito chimed in.
“Willingness to cooperate and the ability to listen are two different things.”
I smiled and reached out to pinch Hugo’s cheek. “I’ve missed you too, Hugo.”
He cringed and took a step back, shaking off my hand.
“You didn’t even remember who I was,” he said, “let alone miss me.”
I could swear that there was a slight pout in his usually stoic face.
“Yes…” I replied. “But now that I remember you, I’ve realized that I’ve missed you quite a lot.”
His shoulders slumped, but he pulled them back instantly.
“Enough of your flattery,” he said flatly, looking away and scratching the back of his ear. “Let’s put that evil mind of yours to good use.”
“I’m not sure how you want me to help,” I admitted. “I can’t approach the demon either.”
“True,” Hugo agreed. “But you can redeem yourself by dedicating yourself to protecting the Eros.”
I knew the statement was meant to make me humble, not make me feel guilty, but it was difficult not to feel as humiliated as I did.
“Rhys,” Hugo commanded. “Come forward.”
Luc—Rhys, as now I recognized him—bowed his head and stepped forward. He had been completely silent this entire time, not a single emotion on his face clear enough to read.
“You and Astraea will both assist the pirates,” Hugo commanded. “Be careful not to let the demon see you.”
Luc nodded solemnly. There was no doubt in my mind that he had no desire to help the crew, but he seemed prepared to do as he was told.
“I wish I had my wings to help better…” I said absentmindedly.
Vito smiled. “You don’t need them. You don’t need what others have in order to do what you’re meant to do.”
I gave him a warm smile back, happy to see him again the way I was meant to.
“Enough encouraging nonsense,” Hugo said. “We have business to take care of. Get moving, you two.”
I glanced at Luc as he bowed solemnly.
“Remember that as long as Henrik has the stone,” Vito continued, “he can control any creature of the spiritual realm that is in his sight and hears his commands.”
“We’ll stick to the air then,” Luc said. “If we’re quiet enough, Henrik won’t look up.”
“Let’s hope you’re right,” Hugo said. “But there aren’t a lot of options. Go do your best.”
I gave a firm nod then ran over to King Melchior’s bedside once more. He gave me a half smile.
