Amara (Tales of a Goddess Book 1)

Ch. 30

Amara's POV:

Kieran stands, his silhouette framed by the dim light of the room, and extends a hand toward me. "Come along, princess. We have a battle to prepare for."

I hesitate for a moment, the weight of his words sinking in. But the urgency in his voice is compelling, and I find myself instinctively reaching for him. As I move to follow, I feel a gentle pressure at my lower back.

Jasper steps up beside me, his presence grounding amidst the chaotic energy surrounding us. "As much as I agree with that statement, Kieran, I simply cannot allow Amara to wander out in the halls where anyone will see her naked."

Kieran blinks, his gaze sliding over my body, and heat floods my cheeks as I realize just how exposed I am. "Ah yes. How could I forget the lovely sight?" He chuckles, his eyes glinting with amusement.

I can feel my face burning as I shift uncomfortably, wishing for the ground to swallow me whole. Kieran doesn't seem bothered, though. He strides over to the closet and rummages through Maddox's things, finally emerging with a crimson red robe. He flings it toward Jasper, who catches it with ease.

"Here, put this on," Jasper says gently, wrapping the robe around my shoulders. The fabric is soft against my skin, a comforting embrace that somehow makes me feel a bit more shielded from the chaos around me.

Once I'm covered, Kieran gestures for us to follow him. We step into a nearby room that reveals itself to be an armory, the air thick with the metallic scent of weapons and the promise of battle.

My eyes scan the space, taking in the array of swords, shields, and enchanted weapons lining the walls. Each piece seems to hum with power, and I can't help but feel a rush of adrenaline coursing through me. This is it.

"Pick your weapon," Kieran instructs, his tone shifting to one of seriousness. He moves deeper into the room, examining the assortment with an appraising eye. Jasper stands close to me, his presence a constant reminder of the support I have in this moment.

I move toward a display of swords, my fingers brushing against their cool surfaces. Each weapon tells a story, but one, in particular, catches my eye—a slender blade with intricate designs etched along the hilt. It feels almost alive in my hand as I lift it, the weight comfortable, balanced.

"That's a fine choice," Jasper says, stepping closer to inspect it. "You'll wield it well."

I nod, though I can't shake the nerves twisting in my stomach. "I hope so."

Kieran looks over his shoulder, a gleam of approval in his eyes. "Let's not dawdle. We need to ensure we're ready for the fight ahead. I want you both sharp and focused."

His words resonate deeply, and the seriousness of our mission settles in once more. I take a deep breath, the reality of our situation hitting me full force. It's not just a battle for survival; it's a battle for everything we hold dear.

"Ready when you are," I say, feeling a surge of determination as I grip the sword tightly.

"Then let's prepare ourselves for the chaos," Kieran replies, his smile returning as he moves toward a collection of shields, already strategizing for what lies ahead.

He glances back at us, his expression shifting from serious to playful. "I need to grab my armor. But first..." He strides over to Jasper and captures him in a passionate kiss, one that ignites a spark between them. I can't help but watch, my heart racing at the unexpected display of affection.

When he finally pulls away, Jasper is momentarily breathless, a hint of surprise flickering in his dark eyes. But before I can dwell on that, Kieran turns to me, a softer expression gracing his features. He leans down and presses a gentle kiss to my lips, an unexpected warmth spreading through me. "See you soon," he says, a teasing glimmer in his eyes as he heads off to collect his personal armor.