Cloaked Heart (Silent Moments Series: Book 3)

Chapter 6

 I opened the closet and found a diverse collection of Grounder clothing. Choosing something suitable, I quickly dressed and adjusted to the unfamiliar attire. As I examined myself in the mirror, the reality of my situation weighed on my mind. I was no longer a lone survivor in the wilderness but a player in the intricate political landscape of Polis. With a final glance in the mirror, I left my chamber and made my way to the throne room, where Lexa was already engaged in discussions with several delegates. The room was a symphony of voices, a blend of languages and accents that echoed the diversity of the Twelve Clans. The atmosphere carried the weight of diplomacy and politics, a reminder of the responsibilities I had reluctantly embraced. As I entered, Lexa's attention shifted to me, her eyes briefly meeting mine. The unfamiliar attire I wore seemed to catch her by surprise, but she offered a subtle nod of approval before returning to the ongoing conversation. My presence had not gone unnoticed, and I couldn't help but feel like an outsider in this complex world of alliances and strategies.

"Kegan," she said with a gentle nod, gracefully excusing herself from the animated conversation. Her voice carried a trace of warmth, underscoring her inherent courtesy.

"Good morning," I greeted her with a warm, genuine smile that mirrored the morning sun streaming into the room.

"Good morning. I assume you've had the pleasure of meeting Jade?" She asked, her eyes reflecting curiosity.

"Yes, she woke me up. But I'm intrigued; why do I have a personal servant?" I inquired, genuinely interested in understanding the reason.

Lexa's response was thoughtful as she considered the question. "Well, considering you'll be staying here for an extended period, it's a matter of practicality. I imagine you won't have much time to manage your quarters, so Jade will assist you with that."

I couldn't help but wonder aloud, "Why does she refer to me as 'Master Kegan'?"

With a serene composure, Lexa explained, "Because she is your servant; that's the customary way of addressing one's superior."

"So, I can have her call me whatever I want, since she's my servant?" I pondered aloud, exploring the implications.

Lexa nodded affirmatively, displaying a willingness to accommodate my preferences. "Indeed, you can. What would you prefer she calls you?"

"Kegan," I replied, my tone carrying an air of confidence, as if it were a decision long considered.

With a nod, Lexa acknowledged the choice. "Very well."

As the meeting commenced, Lexa assumed her position on the intricately adorned throne, her presence commanding the attention of the gathered ambassadors. Her words were measured and carried the weight of authority. "Ambassadors of the coalition, today we gather to reaffirm our unity. An attack on one of us is an attack on all of us."

Titus, speaking in the flowing cadence of Trigedasleng, issued a stern command, "Bring in the accused."

The guards entered the room, their measured steps echoing with the gravity of their mission, escorting Naya, the queen of Ice Nation.

"Queen Naya of Azgeda has confessed to the destruction of Mt. Weather, an act that resulted in the tragic deaths of 49 members of Skai Kru. Wanheda, what say you?" Titus addressed me, his tone reflecting the seriousness of the matter.

"Skai Kru demands justice," I declared firmly, my voice unwavering.

In her native tongue, Naya countered, "Azgeda does not answer to this boy," her words carrying both pride and defiance.

Titus swiftly silenced the exchange with a stern command, "Silence."

Shifting the conversation to English, he continued, "The punishment for your crime is death. Do you have anything to say in your defense?"