Inferno: Azriels Unexpected Love - Azriel x Female OC - ACOTAR

Chapter 16

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Scarlett's POV

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"Someone's getting sloppy." I chuckle, crossing my arms as I lean in the doorway of the large training room. As he has for centuries, Barak trains as if a war could break out tomorrow. Halting his movements as he lowers his fists from launching any more flames out he turns to look at me. "I do hope if you've taken on any other pupils that they haven't seen such poor form."

Crossing his arms, I see him bite back a smile as he tries to look intimidating. "And I suppose you think your form is better than mine now?"

"Most definitely." I nod my head, an ornery grin stretched over my face. Just like Inigo and I, Barak has the same mischievous sense of humor... but he's far better at hiding it than his younger brother.

"Do I hear a challenge, little one?" He gestures toward the ring for me to join, but I shake my head.

Pushing myself from the doorframe, I shift closer. "Not today, I have more pressing matters to discuss with you."

"Ah." He nods his head. "I would assume as much." He uncrosses his arms, taking a few steps closer. "Word around Autumn is the female you've protected so closely happens to be a long lost niece of mine. Care to elaborate?"

"Not on that topic." I state dismissively, not wanting to draw any additional attention to my relationship with Poppy than needed. "Today, I'm here to talk about the future of Autumn... more specifically how we will achieve that future."

A small spark flares in his eyes. "I'm listening."

"Beron sees Eris as untrustworthy... not that he trusts any of you, but especially not Eris now... I'm here to recruit your help."

"Help with?"

I release an annoyed sigh knowing he isn't dumb enough to not put two and two together. "How does General sound to you?" I ask, knowing exactly what his goals are. He never wanted to be High Lord... told me as much himself when I was a kid... said he'd welcome and accept the role should it come to him, but he wished to use his strategic ability and strength to rule over our warriors and army, not the political game that comes with being High Lord... "Help Eris end Beron once and for all and it's yours."

"Just like that?"

"Just like that." I confirm, snapping my fingers to emphasize my point. "There will of course be the normal expectations that come along with it though... As General you'd still report to the High Lord for major decisions... and we will be allowing both females and lesser fae to join the ranks."

His eyes go wide at the statement. "Eris wants females AND lesser faes?"

"The brother you've seen is a mask put up to please Beron." I defend my father, clutching the hope in my chest that he really will return to being the male who raised me once this is done. "I am sure you are familiar with the necessity of putting on your best face to show your father... Under his rule anyone who wishes to fight will have the ability to learn."

"Hmm." He nods his head. "Is there a plan in place for Beron?"

"Nothing concrete. Eris has been monitored closely so I've been brought in to get things moving along. Today, I am solely here for your agreement."