Sagan sent Bones, Iuo, and Smith next. I'd always liked Smith, so I was happy when the Shadow had let him return to the fold. Still, there was something slightly condescending about his constantly grinning face, given the betrayals and all.

"Gentlemen."

They bowed.

Honestly, their formalities had intimidated me until Iuo said, "I'm so glad I met you."

Bones nodded. "Same."

Smith simply grinned.

I hugged the Lamian King Elect, saying, "Me, too, old friend. But tell me what's on your mind."

With the hug over, Iuo glanced sheepishly at his comrades before confessing, "The first film will release in a month."

Ah.

Rayne, I don't know if I've mentioned it, but Iuo has rights over your franchise.

Your laughter is pure joy. "What?! I have movies? Wait, are they all porn?"

Now, I'm laughing.

No, they're legitimate works of fiction under the guise of biopics. Someone is also releasing a series of novels about you; although I can't imagine why. There are already textbooks on you as a subject—Are you all right?

If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

You're blinking big blinks and a little rapidly. "Uh huh," comes out of your mouth.

I couldn't help it. I had to press.

Some fictions depict you in love with Nox. How do you feel about that?

Still blinking, you shrug. "Whatever makes people happy, I guess."

Let's move on.

Bones said, "I appreciate this vacation, boss. It's a nice break from the constant travel."

"Oh, is it daunting?" I asked, completely clueless.

The Icarean warrior shook his head while saying, "Not at all, sir. I simply appreciate my time around the Shadow."

Smith chuckled and mumbled, "Sure 'the Shadow' and not a tiny shorts-wearing Valkyrie."

Iuo nudged him in the ribs.

They got another laugh out of me before I clapped my hands together, asking, "Are there questions or requests?"

Bones shook his head. "Nah, your imperial majesty. Just keep doing what you're doing." He gave me a heavy pat on the shoulder.

I smiled at him and looked at Iuo and Smith for any further duties.

Iuo took the hint and waved for Bones to exit. "Let's leave the former member of Imminent for a lone pep talk with the Co-Emperor."

Smith stared up at me with his brown eyes, smiling so his irises twinkled. He said, "It's been a long road, boss. I never lied to you. Not really."

I nod, agreeing. "You were careful, as only someone as old as you can be. I understand you, Smith. Is it really over?"

Smith grinned at me, unblinking, for a long time before saying, "I think you know the answer."

I couldn't keep my eyes from flinching.

With a cordial nod, acknowledging it, Smith grinned as he let himself out.

My heart was still racing, but I wanted this to be the last day. I needed to tell them the truth. I called, "Next, please, Sagan."