Katrina stirred in her bed. Slowly opening her eyes, she saw beams of sunlight shining through the large balcony opening of her room. She let out a groan and turned away from it, covering her face with a pillow. She didn’t want to get up. Or to leave her room. Ever since Robert’s arrival in Vul De Rah, she had been filled with a torrent of emotion. Plagued by the internal struggle of hatred and compassion for her former lover. Robert had changed. Become someone almost unrecognizable to her. But there were still moments. Glimpses of the man she once loved behind it all. A laugh, or a smile. The way he frowned or turned to face her. She let out a deep breath, she didn’t feel like it, but she had to get up.

After her morning routine she left her quarters. The two guards outside her room bowed and fell in behind her without so much as a word. She made her way down to the dining hall, noticing to her surprise that no one was there. For days now, Robert, Alektor, Demessa, Athica, and Ambrosia had all been here, discussing the war or other topics upon her arrival. She took the seat she usually did. At the far end of the table, furthest from where Alektor sat, usually. She finished her breakfast alone, and finally stood to make her way to the gardens. The whole palace seemed to be empty, save the guards and scribes that roamed the halls.

Soon her curiosity got the better of her, and she began to search for where they might be. “Excuse me.” She said to a passing guard. “Do you know where Alektor is?”

“Spirit-Sent.” The guard bowed. “He left early this morning to meet with some of the Lords of the Sabree and Volsung. I believe they’re at the Glade now. Would you like me to escort you there?”

“No need.” she said, nodding in thanks. “I know the way.”

She made her way across the city to its seat of military power. The Glade. The large dome structure sat as a permanent reminder of the resilience of this city, she felt. It was nearly indestructible, and would no doubt still be standing, long after they were gone. Within were a vast assortment of warriors from every clan that pledged loyalty to Alektor and the Rexunii. Volsung, Visgo, Sabree’ and of course the Rexunii themselves. Making her way up to the royal box she finally found Alektor, Robert, Athica, Demessa, and Ambrosia within. Along with many other lords and ladies of the other clans. Alektor was in a conversation with Robert, the two sitting in the very same area she and Avria had when they first spoke. Demessa was sitting awkwardly with Ambrosia, the two barely able to look at one another. That’s my cue. She thought, walking toward them.

“Well, I feel a bit left out.” Katrina said, taking a seat next to Demessa. “You guys just decided to leave me behind?”

“Katrina!” Demessa said, a wide smile across her face. “Well, I suggested it, but our High King told us that you would most likely decline the invitation.”

Katrina shrugged, “Understandable.”

“Of course.” Ambrosia said, turning angry eyes toward Katrina. “You have thrown any attempt from our High King at reconciliation back in his face over and over again. Even through the disrespect and insolence you have shown him, he still graciously provides you with every need. He asks nothing in return from you.” She spat. Which Katrina thought was very un-ladylike. “You don’t deserve any of this.”

Katrina opened her mouth to retort, but was cut off by another voice.

“Princess Ambrosia.” Alektor said, taking a seat next to Katrina. “We do what we must for the Spirit-Sent, and that is all. Asking for something in return would be highly inappropriate.”

“Well, your highness, I believe that it is also proper for one’s actions and intentions to be acknowledged.” Ambrosia said, smiling at Alektor.

Oh brother. Katrina thought, she’s got it bad. “Well, I have my reasons, don’t I Ambrosia?” Katrina stood to leave but Alektor held his hand up.

“Katrina.” He said, getting her attention. “I wonder if you might spare a moment.”

Katrina raised an eyebrow. “Why?”

“There is something I wish to discuss with you.” He said, standing from his place and gesturing to her to follow. Ambrosia began to stand as well, but he looked at the princess. “I would speak to her alone, for now.”

Ambrosia looked puzzled, but ultimately bowed her head in acceptance.

Katrina followed him to the far corner of the royal box, where two chairs were set up for them.

“So, what is it, Alektor?” Katrina said as she sat, crossing her arms.

“It is about Reku.” Alektor said, taking a seat across from her. “He has been… different since returning from Pontos. I was hoping to gain some insight from someone who knows him well.”

“I don’t know him.” Katrina shook her head. “Not anymore at least. His time here has made him basically unrecognizable to me. So, I don’t know how much help I’ll be.”

“I see.” Alektor said, several moments of awkward silence following.

“Well.” Katrina finally spoke. “Tell me about it anyway; I guess it wouldn’t hurt.”

“He seems a bit more aggressive than normal.”

Katrina waited for him to continue, but when it became clear that was all he had to say, she shrugged. “I mean, back home Robert wasn’t aggressive at all. So, any form of aggression now is more than he used to have for me. He has been through a lot though.” She paused, catching herself. He doesn’t deserve any sympathy, what the hell are you talking about, Kat? She thought.

“How he’s treating Athica, the Queen of Visgo. And the reports we’ve been receiving about how he consolidated power in Pontos.” Alektor lifted a hand getting a servant’s attention. Who promptly laid out two bowls of wine for them. Alektor nodded in thanks, and proceeded to take a long drink.

“What did he do?”

“Well, let me start with this. Visgo is a clan that differs greatly from most of Eleutheros. They have a complex political infrastructure that favors a small group of Dae who control their clan’s industry and economy.”

“Like a shadow government.” Katrina said, picking up her bowl of wine and drinking. “Or a cabal or something.”

“Precisely.” Alektor continued. “This has been their way for centuries. The Kings or Queens of their clan are selected and controlled like this. Reku wasn’t selected; they took issue with this. They attempted to betray us by capturing him and selling him to the Torre’ for their forgiveness and support.”

Katrina finished her bowl of wine and crossed her arms. Leaning back in her chair. “Had to throw that in there, huh?”

“I wont lie to you, Katrina.” Alektor folded his hands and leaned forward. “It is in my best interest to get your support. The Torre’ want to kill you. They believe you’re demons.”

“Well, yeah. Because—”

“I know you’re going to say it’s because of Reku.” Alektor interrupted her. “You’ve already made your point. Reku did what he did because we asked him.”

“I won’t join you.” Katrina said hotly.

“Whether you like it or not, Katrina. We are the only friends you have.”

Katrina sighed, feeling her interest in the conversation start to wane. “Can we talk about something else, please? What are you going to do about Robert and his baby mamas?”

Alektor raised an eyebrow.

“The two mothers of his children.” Katrina clarified. “You’re keeping them here, right?”

“Yes, Athica and Demessa will remain here, under my direct protection.”

“I couldn’t help but notice you weren’t too happy about Demessa, and her being pregnant too.” Katrina prodded.

“There are complications to be sure, but the child is my kin and will be well taken care of. Demessa as well.”

“Another member in the ranks of your flourishing house.” Katrina said, shaking her head.

“I do not have a flourishing house.” He responded quickly. “I was the last known member of house Roh. After my father was executed by the former King of Rexun.”

“Oh…” Katrina said, unwanted sympathy creeping into her mind.

“That is, until Reku became my brother. And now of course, the prospect of a niece or nephew. My house has a promising future to be sure.”

“What about your own kids?” Katrina looked over her shoulder at Ambrosia, staring daggers at them from across the room. “Princess sourpuss over there would love to help you grow your house.”

Alektor looked on, seeming to be a bit uncomfortable with the direction of the conversation. “That option is being considered. But it is not the only one.”

This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.

“What do you mean by that?” Katrina asked.

“The hand of a king, or a High King, rather. Must be held for the most eligible candidate.” Alektor looked toward Ambrosia. “The princess of Sabree has many qualities that I find formidable. But her clan is already allied to us, and mating with her would bring little political value or further our position.”

“That’s pretty screwed up.” Katrina said, “so who are your other options?”

He narrowed his eyes at her. “Within the realm of possibility? None. Either a joining with a rival clan, the Lokkadonians or the Torre’ perhaps.” He shook his head, and leaned back. “As I’m sure you agree with me. Each option is impossible at this time. But I cannot jump into anything rashly.”

Katrina took several deep breaths, letting her surprise at the man’s words settle. “I can see how that would be a problem. It’s kinda fucked up, but I get it. The only prospects that make any political sense are out of the question.

“Perhaps an opportunity will present itself. King Phobos has many members of his house that would be eligible to marry. Once this war is coming to a close, I might have to use that to bring peace. It would unite Eleutheros again, and solidify my position to my subjects.”

“That is assuming you don’t get your ass kicked by the counterattack.”

“Unlikely.” Alektor replied. “They are far less organized now. After the death of Agron, I can’t see any in their military caste who would pose a threat.”

“Bullshit.” Katrina spat, feeling hot anger building within her.

“These are the facts, Katrina.”

“Boros is still out there. He’ll get his revenge.”

“The last son of Ignos is of little concern to me.” Alektor’s voice was cold as he spoke. And this brought Katrina’s temper to rise further. “He should have died defending his city beside his father and brother. Instead, he ran away like a coward. No, Katrina. A Dae like that could never hope to defeat Rexun.”

“You have no Idea what it’s like to watch your entire family get murdered in front of you.” Katrina seethed, her eyes bulging with rage.

“I watched as my entire house was murdered by the old King of Rexun.” Alektor leaned forward. “Those I loved, and cared for all my life, snuffed out before my eyes. In an instant, I was alone. My father, dead. My uncles and cousins, all dead. Cast into the Pit of Mar, because of a plot, orchestrated by the Torre’.” Alektor beckoned a servant with his hand, and he was brought another bowl of wine. He took a long drink and met Katrina’s eyes. “I never knew my mother. And my father never told me anything about her. Other than, she was a very powerful Dae, who abandoned me after I was born.”

“You were wronged by the Rexunii King, and the Torre’.” Katrina said, taking slow breaths. “And what exactly did you do to the Rexunii King?” She narrowed her eyes.

Alektor sighed then drank from his bowl again. “I got my revenge.” He said, “I reaped a terrible vengeance upon them for what they did to my family, and their betrayal of Rexun. That is why I do not chastise your ire toward me. You are entitled to your revenge. If you can take it, that is.”

Katrina took a deep, calming breath and stood from her seat. Without a word she turned and walked back to Ambrosia and Demessa.

“You should go talk to him.” Katrina said, looking at Ambrosia. Then promptly left to return to the palace.

~

“I can’t say I agree with you, Kat.” Demessa said, pouring wine for herself.

Katrina lounged on her couch, facing the large balcony of her quarters. “I didn’t expect you to. I don’t have anyone to vent to, but I needed to get it off my chest.”

“Well, he has his reasons for hating house Ignos. I certainly can’t blame him.” Demessa sat next to her, looking at the bowl of wine, sighing, then handing it to Katrina. “I keep forgetting I can’t drink this while I’m with child.”

“Don’t mind if I do.” Katrina deftly grabbed the bowl and took a swig. “It got awkward though. I mean, he started talking about not being able to find a wife.”

“Did he ask if you were interested?”

“What!? Ew, no.” Katrina thought for a moment, “I mean, he didn’t say it out right, but I guess it could have been him projecting it? I don’t know.”

“So?” Demessa asked, leaning in. “What are you going to do?”

Katrina shot up. “What the hell are you talking about? Alektor is my enemy. I hate him. That’s it, end of story.”

Demessa smirked. “Reku was my enemy too, at one point. But we saw past our differences. And the passion that sparked from that union was.” She smiled, looking up at the ceiling. “Amazing.”

“Gross.” Katrina said, laying back down on the couch. “I like you and all, Demessa, but Robert used to be my boyfriend. It’s weird talking about his sex life.”

“The circumstances are difficult to be sure.” Demessa put a reassuring hand on Katrina’s shoulder. “But you should get out more, find a mate for the night, and enjoy yourself. It isn’t the Rexunii way to hold yourself back like this. Though you aren’t of our clan, you should try it. I’m sure you will feel better.”

“No thanks,” Katrina said, “Too much to do. You know, training and whatnot.”

Suddenly there was a loud pounding on the door to her quarters. The two women looked at one another, and Katrina shot to her feet. “Lady Demessa! Spirit-Sent!” One of the guards said, opening the doors and poking his head inside. “High King Alektor has requested an audience. Immediately, I’m afraid.”

“What the hell!?” Katrina shouted, “You scared the shit out of us!”

“My apologies, Spirit-Sent.” He said, “It appears that a third Spirit-Sent has approached the gates of Vul De Rah with a rather large escort of warriors.”

“D… Daniel?” Katrina asked, in shock. “Daniel is here!?”

~

Robert strode into the throne room flanked by his Visgo honor guard. Alektor sat on the throne, and was locked in a conversation with Turak.

“You can’t be serious.” Robert said, walking up the steps to stand beside them. “Another one? Who is it? Daniel?”

Turak shook his head. “I swear I don’t understand anything anymore. First Katrina, showing up and trying to kill Alektor, here. Now Daniel walks right up to the main gate.”

“Has he made any demands or statement?” Alektor asked, steepling his fingers in thought.

“None that we know of.” Turak said, “He just walked up with a bunch of warriors who he picked up on the way here, and basically knocked on the front gate.”

“Something is wrong…” Dio’mar whispered in Robert’s ear. “I do not sense him… There is nothing there… it is almost like he doesn’t exist in the spiritual realm.”

What? Robert asked in his mind, shocked. What does that mean?

“I… I don’t know.” she said, floating over his shoulder. “This is troubling.”

“Apparently Dio’Mar is saying there is something wrong with him.” Robert said aloud.

“Elaborate.” Alektor grumbled.

“She doesn’t know. She just says that she can’t sense him. It’s as though he has no Spiritual energy at all. Like when we first arrived. I guess.” Robert shrugged. “His Dunamis is erased or something.”

Just then, Katrina and Demessa entered the throne room. “Where is he?” Katrina asked, climbing the steps.

“Not here yet.” Robert said, turning to Malak, the head of his royal guard. “Be ready for anything. The last time I saw this guy, he tried to kill me.”

After another ten minutes or so of waiting. The doors of the throne room slid open, and a grizzled and worn-looking Daniel walked in, flanked by warriors from several different clans. He strode up to the steps and stopped, looking up at everyone.

“Kat.” He said, with a nod. “You alright?”

Katrina smiled from ear to ear, and she leaped down the steps embracing him tightly. “Oh my God, Dan. I thought you were dead! Everyone said you and Avria were killed.”

“I’m alright, Kat.” Daniel said, tightening his grip. “We gave them hell. Avria is safe and sound with the Baa’Yega. Probably already linked up with Lokkadonian command.

“Thank you.” she said, bringing teary eyes up to meet him. “What the hell are you doing here?” She asked, a bit of frustration in her voice. “You should have stayed far away from here.”

Daniel looked up, his cold eyes meeting Robert’s

Fuck, Robert thought. That’s not good.

“I came for you.” Daniel said, calmly. “Well, that, and there isn’t anywhere else to go. We’ve got problems with the Torre’ again.”

“I see…” Katrina stepped back from him, then turned to lock eyes with Alektor.

“We welcome you, Spirit-Sent, Daniel.” Alektor said, standing from his throne and bringing his arms out to his sides. “We welcome you into our protection.”

“Yeah…” Daniel grunted, taking several steps up toward the throne. “Long time no see, Alektor.”

Almost two dozen royal guards tensed at that moment. Robert could hear the creak of armor, and the grasping of bone handles.

“I have come here to sue for peace.” Daniel said, turning to glance at Katrina.

Several moments passed, as Alektor seemed to gather his thoughts. “Do you? And do you speak for the High King of Torre’ as well? Or the Baa’Yega, or Lokkadonia? Or Exous?”

“I speak, with the authority of a Spirit-Sent.” Daniel commanded, his voice sounding strong. “I would see this land at peace. United again, under a single banner.”

Alektor seemed taken aback by Daniel’s words, this was something he clearly did not expect or anticipate happening. “And what if that banner is mine?”

“Then at least we humans don’t have to worry about being dragged off and tortured to death.” Daniel replied. “Honestly, I don’t really care who sits at the top. As long as they’re friendly to us.”

“Daniel!” Katrina hissed, but he ignored her.

“So?”

Alektor looked at Turak, and then to Robert. “Well, I don’t see any reason why we can’t work together in that regard. But it will be difficult to navigate the political landscape. The Torre’ are refusing to give up their power. And of course, the Lokkadonians would seek revenge for what took place in this very room.” Alektor’s eyes focused on Daniel.

“I know what happened here.” Daniel replied, his face unreadable. “You killed my friends. Tried to kill me and Kat. That’s war though. Now the people we thought we were fighting for, turned around and branded us demons again.” He put his hand on Katrina’s shoulder. “I’ll be damned if I’m going to sit back and let that bullshit happen again.”

“If that is the case.” Alektor said, his face stern. “Then I welcome you as a brother, and will protect you as I protect Reku and Katrina. As a member of my house.”

“I will need a few things though.”

“Which are?”

“First, I need a shower.” Daniel held up a finger. “Second, I need my old quarters back. And third I want Rin as my steward, and I want corporal Matea here to be my squire.” Daniel pointed behind him to a female warrior, who was knelt down, and clad in a Sabree cloak.

“I… don’t see any issue with that.” Alektor looked at the girl. “Corporal, Matea.” He said, and she shot up from her knee, and bent at the waist.

“Your majesty!” She blurted out.

“A Spirit-Sent has named you, his squire.” Alektor said, “That is a great honor to be had. Serve him well, and your house will be granted a title, and risen to the rank of nobility.”

“Thank you, your Majesty! I will not fail!”

“Great.” Daniel grabbed Katrina by the arm and started to turn away. “I’ll head back to my room then.”

“Spirit-Sent.” Alektor held a hand up. “I’m afraid your old quarters are being utilized by Spirit-Sent, Katrina. It will take us some time to move her to other accommodations.”

“No need.” Daniel said, “We’re basically family. She doesn’t mind. Do you?”

“Nope.” She replied, not missing a beat. “We’ll bunk together for now. No problem here.”

“Well, there is the matter of your weapon.” Alektor continued. “We provide the most effective protection for our guests. So, there is no need for you to carry one.”

Daniel made a clear glance at Robert’s blade at his hip. “Very well.” He unclasped his belt and dropped it on the floor. “Anything else?”

“Yes.” Alektor crossed his arms and started walking down the steps toward Daniel and Katrina. “I need your solemn oath that you will not attempt to harm us here. Either myself or my warriors, or any of my people. I know you were close to many of Lokkon who perished in the battle. I need to know you do not seek retribution.”

Daniel held Alektor’s gaze for some time. “I said my peace, and you have my word I won’t try to harm you or anyone here while I’m under this roof.” He narrowed his eyes. “But if we meet on a field somewhere in the future for some reason. That’s a different story.”

“Does that go for me as well?” Robert asked, finally speaking.

Daniel’s cold eyes met his, and a small shiver shot down his back. “No.”

Alektor sighed, “I will need you to swear to me that you will not harm King Reku in any way. He is a—”

“I don’t care who the hell he is now.” Daniel spat. “I can swear that if you keep him away from me, I won’t kill him.” His eyes again locked with Robert’s, his intent clear. “But count your days, you piece of shit. Sooner or later you’re gonna pay for what you did.”

Robert felt a large lump in his throat drop into the pit of his stomach.

“He will try…” Dio’Mar whispered in his ear.