Nasha held out her hand. “Come on. You can’t be serious, Kat.”
“Nope.” Katrina said, her vision slightly blurred from the alcohol. “Even if I could, I wouldn’t go home.” She lifted her jug of wine. Taking another deliberate sip.
“I mean… I do miss going out to a restaurant or something with my friends. Or curling up on my couch and watching a movie or a show.” She looked up at the night sky, her voice caught slightly as she added, “Actually… I do really miss my car.”
“What’s a car?” Nasha asked.
“A car, my dear, is a machine. Made out of metal and plastic, and all sorts of other materials. You fill it up with petrol, and the engine converts it into energy, which pushes the car forward. You use it to get around in our world.”
Nasha looked at her and smiled. “That sounds like you just made it up.”
“You know?” Katrina chuckled, pointing at her. “I think you’re right. Maybe it is. Maybe this is real life, and our old lives were just a fantasy. Huh? Did you ever think of that?” She suddenly looked up past Nasha’s shoulder and saw Daniel walking toward them. Her smile faded a bit when she saw his face, her small moment of levity being crushed by reality.
He sat down beside Delmos, who had been sulking on the other side of the fire for the last ten or so minutes. He was taking the recent events pretty hard. Katrina wanted to help in some way but couldn’t bring herself to. Daniel nudged him on the shoulder, looking somber himself, and started speaking to him. She sighed, glancing at the open seat next to her. What the hell am I going to do about Dan? She thought.
“So, what happened between you two?” Nasha's question pulled Katrina from her reverie.
“What?”
Nasha gestured with her head toward Daniel. “I’ve noticed you two have been… oddly distant.”
Katrina felt a weight of guilt rest on her shoulders. That was an elephant in the room that she wished she could ignore right now. “What gave you that idea?” She said, awkwardly drinking more wine.
“I know it isn’t just the battle.” Nasha said with a knowing look. “You may be humans, but I know these things. I’m very perceptive.”
“Dae women’s intuition huh?” Katrina sighed, “Well, we had a little bit of a… thing a little while ago.”
“A thing?” Nasha’s mood seemed to lift, the prospect of gossip taking her full attention.
“Yeah… I don’t know what happened.” Katrina resigned herself, figuring confiding in someone would probably help in some way. “One minute I was in bathing, after a sparring session. The next… I couldn’t control myself. It was like something was whispering in my ear. Egging me on.”
“I see.” Nasha’s smile turned into a grin. “So, what did you do about it?”
Katrina eyed Nasha, wearily. “What do you think happened? We slept together.”
Nasha raised her eyebrows in surprise. “So you went that far?”
“It’s not what you think.” Katrina took another deep drink from her bowl of wine. “It just felt… wrong. I don’t know what came over me.”
Nasha’s expression turned sour. “You are thinking too much on it, Katrina. We all have needs. You sought yours in the arms of someone you’ve come to trust. There’s no harm in it. It’s perfectly normal.”
Katrina shrugged. “Yeah… well I told him that I wasn’t interested in continuing anything, and now I feel horrible. Like I took advantage of him or something. We haven’t spoken about it since before we were captured. And now after the battle… with everything. I don’t know how to talk to him anymore. It seems like such an insignificant issue compared to what we’re facing right now. He probably—”
“I wouldn’t worry about him either way.” Nasha waved her off. “He’ll be just fine.”
“Yeah, I know… but.” Katrina raised an eyebrow. “What do you mean?”
“He’s a strong man, from what I can tell.” Her smile widened mischievously. “Also, I think he’s got someone else who might be vying for his affections.”
“What? Who?” Katrina leaned forward, curiosity overtaking her reluctance.
“I’m sorry, Kat. I really shouldn’t say.” Nasha turned her head dramatically. “It’s far to scandalous.”
“Don’t leave me hanging like that, Nasha.” Katrina frowned, “Spit it out.”
Nasha cracked like an egg, as she whirled back to face Katrina, a glint in her red eyes. “Fine, but you didn’t hear this from me.”
Katrina nodded, suddenly unsure if she wanted to hear this.
“Last night, Avria came back to her hut a bit out of sorts.” She whispered, “I was waiting for her outside, but noticed something was off. I approached her, intending to go over the night’s watch. She seemed flustered, and told me to forget about it. I decided to leave her alone for the night, but the thought stuck with me. This morning, we went together to get Daniel, who was nursing quite the hangover. And the two of them were acting strangely; this, of course, piqued my interest. Avria asked me to leave them be, while they discussed something in ‘private’. I obeyed, stepping away, but just so happened to linger within earshot of their ‘conversation’.”
Katrina’s face twisted in shock. “Wait… You don’t think that.”
“They were talking about something that happened between the two of them last night.” Nasha shrugged, “I don’t know exactly what happened, but it was enough to make her blush bluer than the fruit of a Yordac bush. And let me tell you, Kat. I have never seen that woman blush… EVER.”
“Katrina paused, her mind reeling as she tried to digest the revelation. The idea of Avria and Daniel together seemed to defy logic, like a puzzle piece that didn't fit into the picture she had constructed of their dynamics. “That can't be right,” she murmured, more to herself than to Nasha. “Avria... and Daniel? It's just... it doesn't make sense. There has to be another explanation. Maybe it's a misunderstanding or something else entirely. Avria isn't one to... I mean, they're so different. It's… I can’t even—"
“Is that a tinge of jealousy I hear in your voice?” Nasha teased.
“What?” Katrina balked, “No. It’s just beyond weird to even imagine something like that.”
“Then forget I said anything.” Nasha raised her hands up in surrender. “Perhaps I misjudged.
~
The next morning didn’t come quickly. A sleepless night of terrors and blood plagued her mind until she had consumed enough wine for them to fade into the background.
Katrina groaned while she rode her Cro’kan, holding her stomach, cursing her indulgence. Every step the beast took made her stomach more and more likely to empty itself. They had left early that morning, their small retinue trailing behind the main army of Rexun. They were on their way to the Torre’ Border. At their current pace, they would catch up to the main army by midday tomorrow. Then, at a much slower pace, they would reach Torre’ in around three days after that. Katrina hated marching with large groups of warriors. They slowed everything down, everything took time.
That night she rolled out her bedroll, and slept under the stars, no tent required. Daniel slept far away from them, that night. His distant behavior, still evident. The bodies of Rin and Matea flashed in her mind, causing her to shake her head, willing the haunting memory back into her subconscious. Katrina knew how he felt. She hadn’t had a full night’s rest since then either. When night came, so did the dreams, and the memories of death and destruction.
The next day, they reached the army. Then after another three days, the tall spires that indicated the border of Torre’ poked over the horizon.
Alektor called an assembly that night. Where they prepared for the negotiations. Daniel and Katrina didn’t stay for long. The morning of, everyone was quiet. They got up, put on their armor, and made their way toward a massive spiral right on the river that separated Lokkon, from Torre’.
Alektor brought only a small group of elites with his council, Turak and Ambrosia. Including Katrina, Daniel, and Avria.
Entering the spire, they found themselves in an enormous open space. In the center were two very tall white thrones that faced each other. A Dae with an elaborate crown sat on one already, behind him, his royal guard. A dozen warriors, clad in purple cloaks. Katrina Recognized King Yomin, and a Dae she did not know, wearing the colors of Baa’Yega.
The Dae Katrina was now sure was High King Phobos, stared at their party with calculating eyes. He scanned them all, his gaze lingering on her and Daniel a bit longer than the rest.
The tension was thick within the vast hall. As the two sides stared each other down. Alektor strode forward, placing his hand on the white chair and running his fingers across it’s surface, before sitting.
“Alektor of house Roh!” a Torre’ attendant announced loudly. Causing Ambrosia to bristle.
“That is High King Alektor, of House Roh.” Ambrosia replied loudly, while Alektor took the seat.
Katrina could see the yellow eyes of Phobos crease in displeasure at Ambrosia’s words, but his attention fell fully on Alektor as he settled. The man’s presence was undeniable.
“High King.” Phobos finally spoke, breaking the tense silence. “High King of what, exactly?”
“High King, of Western Eleutheros. At the moment.” Alektor’s words were as cold as ice, and held no hint of humor in them.
Phobos didn’t react to the unveiled threat, but responded. “Very well, ‘High King’ Alektor, we have all arrived as you requested. Please, tell me what your proposition is.”
“My list of demands are as follows.” Alektor began, wasting no time getting to his point. “I want the Doulos in Eleutheros freed and returned to my care. Every single one. I want the lands of Lokkadonia as well. Rexun and Lokkon were once one clan. I wish to make it so again. I want Telmos Regios freed. And all hostilities against the Spirit-Sent abandoned, indefinitely.”
King Yomin, who stood to Phobos’ left, started to laugh loudly. “You expect us to just give Lokkon to the likes of you? You’re out of your mind. And no, Telmos Regios is a traitor.” He turned toward Avria. “His daughter is a traitor! The whole Regios line must be snuffed out. Starting with Telmos.”
“Enough, Yomin.” Phobos barked with authority, “The King is right, though. I cannot do any of those things. I will not give up an entire clan territory. I cannot release all of the Doulos either. The Economy of Lokkon, as well as their exported labor to the rest of our clans would be obliterated. There is no realistic world where that can be achieved. As for Telmos, and the Regios family.” He looked at Avria. “Your house has betrayed Eleutheros for siding with Rexun. You attacked your own warriors.”
Avria looked like she was about to speak. But Alektor took over. “That is a lie. She is only here with me, because her lands and titles were revoked by Yomin. She was sentenced to death for trying to carry out your will.”
This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it
Phobos had no reaction, but his silence spoke volumes.
Alektor continued. “Daniel and Katrina had surrendered themselves to your host, led by King Yomin. They were detained, and were awaiting collection by the Espi-Dae.”
“You garrank.” Yomin spat, his words seething with hatred “We did the High Espi-Dae’s will, at the request of our high king. Then the demons attacked us with your army! The slaughtered hundreds of honorable sons of Lokkon!”
“You’re full of shit!” Daniel shouted, his Dunamis enhanced voice echoing in the vast room. “You captured us, and tortured my attendant, AND my squire, to death!!”
Alektor leaned forward and spoke before Daniel could continue. “You dishonored yourselves when you changed your command to your own appointed Sterion. Who had come to collect them, with an Espi-Dae representative who they had been appointed.” Alektor narrowed his eyes, his words cutting deep. “I did my duty to them, in allowing the Spirit-Sent to leave. These humans were loyal to you and attempted to comply with your own declaration, Phobos. Instead, you captured them, and murdered his loyal companions.”
“Your people are a blight in our lands!” Yomin raged, looking at Phobos. “You will all be put to the skinned and fed to the garranks.”
“Oh yeah?” Daniel growled, his body steaming with the fury that was no doubt raging within him. “I challenge you to a duel to the death. Right here, right now, Yomin. You piece of fucking shit.”
“Enough!” Phobos exclaimed, “You can sling insults at us all you want, Alektor. But it gets us nowhere. Let us, get back to the issue at hand.” Phobos said, lifting his hands toward him. “So far, your demands are unacceptable. I have denied them. How do you intend to resolve this issue without further violence?”
“The issue at hand,” Alektor’s voice was low and dangerous. “Is that your army is destroyed, or has joined me. Mine is outside your very walls. And my conditions are non-negotiable. If you do not wish to grant me Lokkon, I will take it. If you do not release my people? I will free them, one by one. Killing all who oppose me. If you do not recognize my throne? I will take yours. These are very simple realities. I am not asking for you to give me your land in Torre’. He looked to the King of Baa’Yega. “King Tegan, I am not asking anything from you either. You have always been a fair arbiter in political disagreements between us. But today you must choose.”
Phobos clenched his fist. “You would threaten me here, during our peace talks?”
“Yes.” Alektor said. “This is how Rexun negotiates for peace. Your armies are scattered and will take time to recover. So, I am here to either make peace with you with words and an agreement. Or I will destroy you. It is very simple.”
Katrina could tell Phobos was losing his composure. Alektor’s words stung. But there was a clear truth to them.
“You would destroy Eleutheros.” He finally said. “We won’t survive a schism of this size, Alektor. The Visoth would invade us and obliterate us! Even now, they are probing our Eastern strongholds.”
“Then,” Alektor said, his voice now calm. “All you must do, is step down as High King.”
Phobos looked shocked. His eyes blinking. “That is… that would go against our traditions! We always elect our High Kings, you cannot conquer Eleutheros with an incisor in hand.”
“Then we will hold a moot,” Alektor pressed. “We will summon the remaining kings of Eleutheros and vote as soon as they arrive. Though, we can save them the long trip, if you step down, and name me as your successor.”
King Tegan took a deep breath and looked at Phobos. “Your Majesty, it is clear we are at a disadvantage. Thousands already lie dead. And it will take months to recuperate our forces enough to challenge the host that is literally camped outside your walls.” He then turned to Alektor. “I will not see my people slaughtered senselessly. High King Alektor, you have our oath of fealty, if High King Phobos steps down.”
Phobos sighed heavily, his head hanging with the weight of this immense decision. “What guarantee do we have that you will not kill us all in our beds once you ascend the throne?”
“What guarantee do you have now?” Alektor said, “I could have you all slain within the month. But my word and my honor are enough. The fact that I am here, and not currently burning Belous to the ground should be testament enough. You will remain as King of Torre’, your people will continue their trade, and your allies will stay intact.”
“What about King Yomin?” Phobos asked.
“There is no place for him or his family in Eleutheros.” Alektor turned to look at Katrina and Daniel. “I will leave his fate up to the Spirit-Sent.”
“You…” Phobos spat. “This is an affront. You are a…” Suddenly Katrina saw him sag, and resignation cross his face. “You leave me with very little choice, Alektor. But for the sake of my people, and my friend, Tegan. I will step down as High King, and name you my true successor.”
“Your Majesty!” Yomin said, stepping back. “We cannot give in so easily! We must fight! The High Espi-Dae said he would be here! Perhaps we should wait for him? His council would be most informative!”
“Then my first command as High King!” Alektor stood, “Detain King Yomin, and release Telmos of House Regios!”
Within the hour, documents were brought forth, and each party put forth their seal. And just that, with a stamp, and an oath to the attending Espi-Dae, Alektor had become the true High King of all Eleutheros, ending the bitter conflict that had been the source of so much pain and suffering. The war had ended. Within another hour, Telmos Regios was released, and met them in Alektor’s royal tent.
“Father!” Avria yelled, dashing in to embrace him. The man had been beaten badly, but smiled and scooped her up in a hug. Then Delmos joined in, and Katrina couldn’t help but shed a tear of joy. The reunion was poignant, a moment of pure relief after days of uncertainty and strife.
As night fell, there were celebrations. With the Rexunii camp at the center of it all, the atmosphere transformed from one of tension to one of jubilation. Fires were lit, casting a warm glow over the faces of warriors and civilians alike, who had gathered from all the neighboring lands and clan territories, drawn by the news of peace. Musicians played their instruments with vigor, filling the air with melodies that spoke of freedom and hope.
~
Alektor drank his wine, observing the festivities. As he usually did, alone and on his perch. He enjoyed watching his people celebrate. And today was truly a day to be celebrated. He looked up at the stars above and said a prayer to the Great-Spirits for his father. He swore he would get revenge on those who had trampled him and his people for so long. And today, he could say he completed his mission.
“Your Majesty.” A feminine voice called out.
Alektor looked to see Princess Ambrosia, bowing to him.
“May I sit with you?” She asked.
“Of course,” Alektor said, silently wishing to be left to his thoughts.
“I would ask you again if you have considered anything in regard to my bond?” she asked, sitting beside him. “My father keeps inquiring about it, and I still am at a loss about what to tell him.”
Alektor inwardly groaned, but smiled at her. “I have been thinking about it. There are several prospects who might suit you. Did you have anyone in mind?”
She nodded, looking at the sea of people in celebration below. “My father wants one of the Spirit-Sent.”
Of course he does. Alektor thought. “Princess, I must be honest with you. That does not seem likely. The only eligible candidate is Daniel, and I have little control over him. Unless he chooses you for himself, I am powerless.”
She deflated at that a bit. “I understand.”
“What of Delmos, of house Regios?” Alektor asked.
“Delmos?” she replied, looking as though she were trying to remember his face.
“House Regios will be a powerful player in Eleutheros soon.” Alektor continued. “I plan on ascending Telmos to King of Lokkon within the month. Delmos will be a prince and is quite the charming young Dae.”
She nodded, “I suppose that would please my father... But I thought you were planning on absorbing Lokkon with Rexun. Why the sudden change of heart?”
Alektor nodded, “A good question. Eleutheros has changed much since the last time Lokkadonian lands were called Rexun. I needed King Yomin in a weakened state before Phobos. Declaring Lokkon, essentially an insignificant bargaining chip, helped with this. It forced them to see the next real objective of our aggression.”
“Belous…” Ambrosia said, understanding coming to her. “So, you never intended to merge the two clans.”
“Of course not.” Alektor had a sip of wine. It would only lead to more conflict and division. That is why I need house Regios at the head of that clan. They will keep them in line and rule them well. Which is why you must be prepared to join them.”
“I am at your disposal, your highness.” Ambrosia bowed.
“I am happy you agree. I will arrange it immediately.” Alektor nodded, then looked back down to the party. After several moments, he noticed that Ambrosia was still sitting in the chair. “Princess?” He asked, “Was there something else?
“Your Highness, I was just curious if you had considered your own bond, yet?”
Alektor again groaned internally. “I am not sure as of yet.” He smiled. “Options are being considered.”
She sat for several more seconds, then stood, bowed, and left him to his peace.
Alektor sighed heavily. This was a topic that would never cease until he had a mate. He scanned the crowd again. He had never considered himself a romantic man, his only desire was to provide for his kingdom, for Rexun. Now, he had to extend that care and commitment to all of Eleutheros. A marriage from within would provide little advantage to him. And a wedding to a foreign kingdom would take time.
His eyes settled on Katrina. Truth be told, he did not like this Spirit-Sent. She was a far cry from Reku, who was understanding and willing to negotiate. She was brash and full of an energy that quite frankly, he would be happy to avoid. But she was a Spirit-Sent. And the prospect of having her as his mate, and the potential for offspring made her value incalculable.
He shook his head, not even wanting to consider what he would have to do in order to make that a reality. He was also fully aware of her relationship with Daniel, the other Spirit-Sent. He needed to find a solution to this predicament, and quickly. Preferably one that did not involve her at all. With Reku dead he had no heir. Sadness pulled at his heart. Against all odds, he had managed to grow quite fond of Reku. According to Turak, Dio’Mar had engulfed him just before the killing blow, so there was a strong possibility he wasn’t dead, but not knowing where he was, irked him. He looked over the crowd again, there must be an answer. His eyes falling on Delmos of house Regios, dancing, or trying to dance, in the way of Rexun. He put aside his worries of offspring and mating. Opting to focus on his duties, as he usually did. He turned to one of his royal guards. “Bring me Delmos of House Regios.”
Now was as good a time as any to tell the youngest son of house Regios that he was now betrothed. Technically he needed Telmos’ approval. But it was unlikely he would object.
He watched as his guard made his way down from his royal platform, pushed his way through the crowd, and spoke with Delmos. The Dae turned briefly to look up at him, nodded, and spoke to Katrina, who he hadn’t noticed was next to him. Of course... he thought, hoping the human would not follow Delmos. He sighed when he saw his hopes dashed. She followed him. And he watched as they made their way up to the platform.
“Your Majesty.” Delmos said, bowing his head.
“Your Majesty.” Katrina followed with a nod.
He was slightly surprised at her display of respect. She usually had a blatant disregard for etiquette when it came to him. Though it didn’t really bother him; she was a Spirit-Sent after all. “Lord Delmos. Please sit down.” Alektor looked at Katrina, and also gestured for her to sit.
“I have spoken to several people about the fate of not only House Regios, but also the future of Lokkon itself.” Alektor began. “I suppose I should bring this up to Avria and your father, but they aren’t here, and the subject involves you.”
Delmos looked puzzled, but bowed his head. “I am at your disposal, your Majesty.”
“I am naming Telmos, as King of Lokkadonia.” Alektor said, bluntly.
Delmos’ eyes widened with expected surprise. “Your Majesty?” He sputtered.
“I am putting House Regios in charge of the development and care of Lokkon.” He said, “In my mind, there are no other candidates that even come close. With that being said. Princess Ambrosia has expressed a great interest in being mated with you, specifically.”
“Me!?” Delmos said, his eyes widening even further.
“Yes. You will be a prince of Lokkadonia, and third in line to the throne. As she is in Sabree.” Alektor smiled. “I wanted to ask your opinion on the matter before I made it official.”
“Are you sure?” Katrina asked, putting her hand on Delmos’ shoulder. “She’s not really the warmest person, Alektor. Do you think that she’ll be a good match for him?”
“Katrina.” Alektor narrowed his eyes. “Ones love of another is often not taken into consideration when forging political bonds. Lord Delmos understands that it will increase his House’s influence and position to join so formally with the Sabree. Lokkon will quickly return to its former strength under the guidance of House Regios, and they will have children that will eventually ascend to higher stations. These are normal in Dae society. Here in Eleutheros, love comes to those who work to find it.”
Katrina gave Alektor a dangerous look. “Is that what you think? Is that why Robert was married off to some Queen?”
“That ‘Queen’ is Queen Athica of Visgo. And yes, Reku did his duty, for his own House.”
“You mean, your, house?” She said.
“Yes.” Alektor took a drink from his wine. “Reku was of House Roh. He was my brother, and he trusted me. Ever since I brought him into my House, I had done everything with his best interest in mind.”
“Yeah…” Katrina hung her head, no doubt memories of Reku in her mind.
“Do not fret, Katrina.” He said, reassuringly. “I do not know the true fate of Reku; And even if he is truly dead, his children will carry on his legacy. And will be cared for.
Katrina smiled after that, seeming to perk up again. “You think he might still be alive?”
“I can’t be sure, but his body wasn’t recovered. Which gives me hope that there is still a chance. The Ignos traitor will pay for it either way.”
“Speaking of the Ignos.” Katrina winced. “I’ve been meaning to ask you, Alektor. What will happen to Illya?”
Alektor blinked, unfamiliar with the name. “You must forgive me. I don’t know who that is.”
“Illya, of House Ignos. Agron’s daughter.” Katrina said.
Alektor took a deep breath. “Yes… her. Her fate is up to you, I suppose. She isn’t a warrior if I recall. But was quite talented within the Lokkadonian court, was she not? She might pose a threat to us… with—”
“I want her with me!” She said, a bit too forcefully.
Alektor made it a point to seem as though he were considering it. Then nodded. “Very well. I will have her sent to Vul De Rah immediately. All I ask is that you ensure she does not disrupt Rexunii rule in some crusade for vengeance.”
“I will.” Katrina said, smiling. “I’ll talk to her. I’m sure she doesn’t want to cause any problems.” She looked at Alektor expectantly, “And Boros?”
Alektor’s expression turned dark. “He is a threat, Katrina. And a criminal.”
“I can’t just let him die.” Katrina insisted. “I know you hate the Ignos family. But there’s got to be another way. We owe him so much. Aside from your personal vendetta, Agron served the spirits faithfully. Oros and Boros did the same.”
Alektor furrowed his brow, cursing himself for even considering another option than execution. “I will think on it…” Was all he said.