Loyal Blood

PREMONITION

It's been a few months since little Imani was rescued from Celeste's possession. Euphoria has been teaching her how to pull her supernatural abilities from within.

The two of them studied in the royal library. Today's lesson was about the Crescian people and reincarnations.

"You're doing very well, sweetheart."

"Thanks, Mommy." Imani smiled brightly.

Hasani walked into the home library, and her eyes lit up.

"Poppa Sani!"

Imani ran to him, and he smiled, lifting her into his arms. His visits have increased since her incident. She'd always heard her brother Amadi call him Pop since she was a toddler, so she called him the same.

"Hi, little one."

"King Hasani..." Euphoria gave a nod.

"Hello, my queen."

Euphoria smirked. "Don't let Ebele hear that."

He smiled and then put his focus on the princess.

"How have you been, Starfly?"

"Poppa Sani, I learned a new skill."

"Have you? Show me."

He put her down and patiently waited for Imani to prepare. She stood with her eyes closed. A soft gust of wind began to blow around them. It picked up as it swirled into a circular direction...it grew into a mini replica of a tornado.

Before Hasani could show praise, an electric current shot through the air. Then, as quickly as it began, it ceased.

"Now imagine this but on a grand scale."

Hasani smiled at Euphoria's words. Imani had a long way to go, but she was definitely on the right track.

"Imani, go continue your studies. I will come get you for lunch."

"Okay, Mommy."

Once she was out of ear reach, Hasani's face became serious. He didn't want to rain on the Queen's productive day, but what he needed to say was crucial.

"I could sense that you had something very important to tell me. Let's have a seat."

They made their way to the chairs next to the bay window. Although he carries the weight of what needs to be said, Hasani couldn't help admiring Euphoria's beauty.

He reminisced about the many passionate times they've spent together. The respect for Nathan and her marriage was there, but he couldn't promise that he wouldn't give into Euphoria if her body was offered.

"So...what is it?"

Hasani was pulled from his thoughts.

"A war is going to be declared on Ecstasia. Enemies known and unknown are allying against your queendom."

"I can't say I'm surprised. Do we know our oppositions?"

Hasani sat forward and blew on the palm of his hand. A gold mist swirled before them. An image was displayed of three individuals.

"These are three of the leaders....Triska, Duvan, and Mervin."

"What species?"

"Triska is from the Witch Coven. Duvan is an Alpha of the mountain werewolf pack, and Mervin is the king of Centuria."

"Okay, I've heard of Mervin and Triska...Duvan, I am not familiar with."

"It's to be expected since he comes from the bloodline of the Crestmont family."