The Dark Sun

Chapter 10: Betrayal

     "So," Atlas said as he opened the door. "You've heard. I have to give him credit; that brother of yours is smart. It took me a few days to figure it out. Us royals are incredible at covering our tracks. But everyone has a price."

I could feel my eyes water. Rage coursed through my veins.

"How do I know that you are telling the truth? Arashi would NEVER endanger his kingdom. Plus, how can you even be sure that what your spies are telling you is the truth? The number of informants that information pass through before reaching you is astounding."

"You're right. I have no way of knowing whether or not what my informants say is true or not. But I am sure when you start asking, if applying the right amount of pressure to the right people, they will talk."

I looked at Atlas with untrusting eyes. Then I glanced at Arnia and Gerald. "You 2, out. You are going home to warn the other war chiefs. Octavia will stay behind to protect me if needed."

"Yes, Your Majesty," Arnia responded with a slight bow. Then she and Gerald left the room in a hurry. I turned to Octavia. "I'm afraid Prince Atlas and I need to discuss what is happening in the Lodge family more privately. Go find Lilith and Apollo and keep them busy until I can sort out whether or not Arashi betrayed our people."

She bowed and vanished through the door. I turned to Atlas, "Talk, now."

I stalked down the hallway to the Throne Room, my blood boiling. Bursting through the door, I stopped mere feet from Lilith.

"Lilith!" I exclaimed. She seemed startled herself. "Have you decided what you want in return for the alliance?"

Lilith looked at me, "Yes, I believe all of Adruvalon will agree with what I want." She paused. "I want to know your secret to building warships. Lexula is the most advanced kingdom on the continent, possibly the world. I know you are aware of how to build those ships, and I want to know how."

I hesitated, inspecting Octavia, who was behind her. She looked like she was considering it too for a moment, then she nodded faintly. I stared at the ground quickly before looking back into Lilith's eyes.

"I will have to make sure with Arnia and Gerald, but I don't think it will be a problem."

Lilith nodded. I smiled gratefully and bowed. "Thank you, Your Majesties, for this flash of hope that my kingdom might not be lost," I spoke; Unless Arashi has already destroyed it. I resumed my original position and turned around before exiting the room, Octavia on my heels. When she was by my side, I asked, "Do you truly believe that is the best option?"

"It's the only option we have," she responded without looking at me. I sighed, knowing she was right.

"We will remain here for a day or two longer, but we are going home as soon as the contract is signed. After that, prepare for battle."

As soon as I finished the statement, I peeled away towards the East Entrance. Realizing that Arnia and Gerald were about to leave, I quickened my pace. I saw the door come into view. Speed walking at this point, I pushed through the doors and watched Arnia climb into the carriage.

"Arnia!" I called out. "Lilith has announced what she wants, and I need your viewpoint of it!"

The door opened. Arnia popped her head out of the opening.

"What does she want?" she asked. I told her. After a moment of consideration, she agreed that it was not as horrible a sacrifice as one might believe. I nodded thankfully and turned around. I heard the door close, and the carriage began to move. I sighed and smiled.