The Traitor by A. Lombardo (i can read with my eyes shut TXT) 📕

back the winter weather left a touch of frost on the city rooftops. His beloved city felt restored with a new sense of optimism, which made it difficult to leave.

“I do not apologize well,” Roark broke the serine moment and addressed Kai. “I am glad your father is alive and that I did not kill you.” Roark’s puffed-up chest and his raised chin spoke of his pride and authority, but what surprised Kai was the hand the Admiral offered. “I am proud to call you my Prince,” he added.

Kai shook the Admiral’s hand, but he let Roark continue without interruption—not that anyone would dare interrupt the man when he so clearly had something on his mind.

“The Regent was nowhere to be found. I am not sure how he escaped after he abandoned the Queen, but he is not among the dead or imprisoned, as far as we can tell. I doubt he was among those released, either. Your friend Sabastian claims that many Milnos soldiers were pouring out of the gatehouse when he arrived. He was able to drive the majority back through the gates—do not tell me how, I am not ready for anything else magical—but a great many blinded individuals wandered outside the city after the battle. Dante assured me they were healed and left to us for punishment.”

“First chance he gets the Regent will return to Milnos,” Kai explained, agreeing to not say more about Sabastian. “The Regent spent time in Diu, and he may have friends here willing to hide him and sneak him out of the city when the time is right. Would you like me to search for him?” he offered, knowing it would take time—but if Maxwell remained, he was their best hope of capturing the man.

“As you say, he may have friends here in the city. We will find him if he remains. I appreciate your skills, but this is not a mission for our Prince, Your Highness.”

“Kind of you to use my formal title. Will you feel the same after I return to Katori?”

“Typically, a princess through marriage secures peace between two countries, but you were offered to Milnos for the same purpose. I believe it a wise choice. Plus, how can I argue with my King?” Roark continued to gaze out over the walls.

Changing the subject, Kai turned to watch the procession of men gathering near one of the three-story barracks behind them. “What is all of this?” he gestured.

“The Grand Duke is accepting any disbanded or retired Diu soldiers,” Roark explained, “and he is even considering individuals who left without permission when the Milnosian horde moved into the city. Which brings me to the matter of your Kempery-men—Dresnor, Albey, and Redmond. Dresnor is a proud soldier, and he will not ask for a return of service like the others, but we both know it is his wish. You will have to formally request his return if that is your desire.”

Without hesitation, Kai responded. “I would speak with Dresnor first. I offended him the last time I spoke without his permission. I will not make the same mistake. He must understand I plan to spend most of my time in Katori, returning to Diu now and again.”

“Wise move,” Roark said with a nod. “The face of the world is changing, and if the Katori allow strangers into her borders, it may no longer be the tranquil paradise it is now.”

The thought of change worried Kai. “The Guardians, as we call them, may well need a different understanding to keep the peace in our cities. I have ventured deep into Katori territory, flown over many cities. There are no walls, no armed guards walking the streets.”

“Well, whatever you decide, put the request in front of Dante, and I will approve the transfer.” Roark’s expression turned serious, with a furrowed brow and narrowed gaze. “And finally, while we must repair Diu and restore her security, I have not heard from my son in months. I mean to travel to Milnos in early summer. I trust I can count on you to travel with me to Milnos to inquire about Tolan and Amelia? The rumors of war between Diu and Milnos spread like fire through our streets. The Master General’s spies report unrest and men on the march. The horde of Milnosian men seek to return to their city. We must prepare for war if that is what comes next.”

Curious himself about his friends, Kai could not refuse the request. “I will come when you call. But we must be ready considering war is on everyone’s lips. Milnos will retaliate; dragons or no, they are thirsty for battle.” Kai could only wonder where Keegan would fall in the battle. Would he stand with Katori or Milnos in his quest to rule the world?

“Return to Diu on King’s Day, we will be ready.” Roark nodded and left.

♦ ♦ ♦

Rayna played with Cordelia, picking the remaining white and purple blossoms from the palace gardens. Kai walked with his father, both in a somber mood, knowing this was his last day. Caught by his stare, Rayna blushed and waved at him behind a bouquet of fresh flowers. It pleased him to see her happy.

Knowing the remaining Elders were about to leave, Kai felt anxious about their departure. He planned to go with them to see the ramifications on Katori, considering the world knew of their gifts. Katori was vast, and the Elders could not be in every city to reassure the people. Rumors and fear would spread like fire across this great nation. He imagined each city set ablaze with light, like the spokes of a wagon wheel—the typical design of each city across Katori—would burn through the night, people toiling over their new freedoms and new risks.

Unaware of Kai’s serious contemplation, Iver spoke with a joyful tone. “How long do you plan to wait?” he