Athenian Arrow

Chapter XX

Nikolas summoned Alexi's presence with Adonis as the messenger for he wished Adonis to be there too. He had not summoned Andreas which confused the Athenian. As they returned home to Athens, Nikolas assumed he would summon them both to inform them of their next mission. Since that was not the case, Alexi knew this meeting wasn't about a new mission but something else entirely. He waited for Nikolas to speak the answer to Alexi's unspoken question.

Alexi was currently standing in front of the leader as Nikolas remained seated. His father Adonis stood in a corner, watching on. Alexi had to patiently wait for his confusion to diminish for Nikolas only filled the room with silence. Alexi wondered if the Athenian leader was trying to think of his wording. 

Alexi then looked at his father. His bright blue eyes met his father's across the room. Adonis' eyes seemed to show honesty that he obtained no knowledge as to where this conversation might lead to. 

When Alexi looked back at Nikolas, he noticed that his intense glare was overbearing. The silence added to Alexi's discomfort.

Nikolas drew out a sigh before finally speaking, "Before I divulge any information in regards to why I have summoned you without the Spartan present, I should bless you with the story of the past, shouldn't I?" When Alexi stayed silent, Nikolas continued. "As you may know, I am blind in one eye due to a slash from a Spartan on the battlefield. My fighting days came to an end for I am susceptible to a blind spot now. Though the extent of my knowledge measures to the same of a god which has led us into many victories, I believe that has come to an end as well."

Alexi did not bother to hide the confusion displayed on his face as Nikolas read the expression.

"I gather you are confused my boy but let me explain," Nikolas continued. "Athens needs a new leader to end this gruesome war. Someone young, willing to fight for their city-state, and smart enough to execute the right actions. This war has gone on for much too long, Alexi. Every citizen of Athens knows this, even you."

There was a suspenseful pause that hung in the atmosphere.

"I need you to end this war, Alexi. I need you to be the new leader of Athens."

Alexi's heart sank to his stomach at the unexpected request. Never would Alexi have thought Nikolas would ask such a thing. He did not bother to voice anything relevant for he could not speak. His wide eyes turned to his father who also looked on in genuine shock.

Adonis removed himself from the corner of the room and stood in front of Nikolas, "why have you not informed me of this? What are your thoughts on this?" Adonis never showed anger but was definitely taken aback. Almost offended that Nikolas wouldn't seek his approval for that is his son.

"It was a long decision to be made. I wanted no interference in my decision for I allowed the gods to decide who is worthy of such a position and the gods chose you, Alexi."

"I..." Alexi was left speechless for it was too much to comprehend at once. "I cannot be leader, your honour."

"Nonsense," Nikolas quickly jumps in. "You are the only Athenian who has earned my complete trust. The gods and I see how wise you are, how skillful you are with that bow and arrow. You obtain leadership skills. Being crowned as the best archer manifests that." Nikolas stands up to face the blonde at eye level. "Many men look up to you, Alexi. You have been blessed by the twins with your weaponry. Out of all gods, they believe you are the one to lead Athens into victory, especially Artemis."

Nikolas knew Artemis was the goddess Alexi worshipped the most which caused Alexi to be suspicious of any mind games Nikolas was trying to achieve.

"It is with great gratitude that you see me so highly. I am honoured for this opportunity to grace me," Nikolas smiled at the compliment. "But I cannot accept the role for I am not a worthy Athenian."