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I thought of this. I thought of every angle possible because if I don’t, it means someone I know or love can get hurt. There’s only so much guilt a king can carry, keeping him up at night, agonizing over it all.
Landing here was not a random thought. The other leaders of Mescos will need to be informed and gathered for a meeting. The best way to get that information out is through waterways.
The krakens have access to any body of water whether it be fresh or saltwater. I’m not certain how they do it, and none of the krakens I’ve ever met are willing to part with that information, but it serves us right now.
“We won’t need to,” I say, “he should be here any moment.”
“Who?”
Before the word is even out of her mouth, the calm water starts to ripple. Vivia steps away from the edge and we watch as a figure appears from the watery depths below. Inky, purplish-black tentacles ascend from below. I have seen those tentacles crush a man’s skull and drag others down to their water grave. They are an extension of his body and a powerful tool he wields with precision.
The kraken king greets us in his hybrid form. Part monster, part human. From the waist up, glistening muscles flex as he moves closer to the bank. His skin is the shade of tree bark after a night full of rain. His black locs hang low down his chest.
“King Malix,” his voice booms in the otherwise quiet evening air. Although I can’t see any others, I know he hasn’t come alone. “I received your message this morning. What urgent matters elicit a visit from the dragon king?”
“King Allarick, it’s been far too long.” Honestly, I don’t remember the last time I’ve seen the kraken king face-to-face. We aren’t close allies, but we are cordial. “I’ve come for two reasons.”
“Oh?” His green eyes glimmer in the low light. “And what are those?”
“I have a favor to ask?—”
“Ah, there it is.” He stops me before I can get the rest of my reasoning out. “You only visit when you need my people to benefit yours. Otherwise, us krakens are supposed to fend for ourselves, is that it?”
“No.” There isn’t time for this conversation now, but I entertain it all the same. “Ask for what you want and if it’s in my power, it will be yours. If you agree to help me.”
Allarick pauses, considering my offer. Truthfully, I don’t know what the krakens would want from us. They are one of the most self-sufficient kingdoms in Mescos. It makes me wonder just how self-sufficient they truly are.
“What is it that you’ll need from us?” Allarick finally asks.
“I need a message to go out to all kingdoms. I have information about the Nephilim. It’s imperative that we prepare for the worst.”
Allarick doesn’t speak for a long time. I’ve learned over the years it’s one of his favorite tactics. Prolong the silence in hopes that others will continue to speak to cover up the awkwardness.
Too bad I take solace in silence.
“Very well. I will send my men to deliver the message and bring them here. But in return I need something.”
“And that is?”
Allarick produces a closed clam from god knows where and hands it to me. It’s wet and slimy, but I school my face to remain neutral.
“There’s a list inside of supplies I’m in need of as soon as possible. Vow you’ll get them to me in a timely manner and I’ll send my men now.”
Before I agree to anything, I pry open the clam and take out the soaked seaweed paper. I look over the supplies and frown. “Dresses, toiletries, and nonperishable foods?” I inquire.
Allarick doesn’t elaborate. “Do we have a deal?”
“We do. You’ll get what you requested as soon as the meeting is over and I’m back home to gather these items for you.”
Allarick gives a curt nod. “There are cabins a mile from here. You are free to use them for the night. The others, if they agree, to which I make no promises, will be here over the next few days.”
That means I’ll be away from Rose longer than I intended, but it is the best bet we have.
I nod solemnly. “Then it’s settled.”
Allarick nods. “So, it is. We will meet again soon, Dragon King.”
Chapter 25
