NOVEL NEXT Chapter 7: Chapter 7: Entering the Crimson Kingdom
It was a long drive to the Crimson Kingdom, though Aric didn't mind. Each step forward was a step toward power.
Selene sat next to him, that stiff posture of hers visible through the breeze as they approached the capital's outer gates. Even now, even after her submission, she was straightening. She was afraid.
Not of him. Of what came next.
The huge blood-red walls of the capital rose before them, pinioned by watchmen in crimson livery. Beyond them, the vast city extended toward the great palace — the center of noble power and corruption.
Aric smirked. This will be fun.
As they neared the gates, the guards stepped in to block them.
"Halt!" A captain with a beard stepped to the fore, a hand rested on the hilt of his sword. "Name and business."
Selene didn't want to, but Aric pushed her forward. This was her first test.
She took a deep breath. "I am Selene Vaelis, daughter to Duke Vaelis."
The guards tensed up, shooting each other looks. Even here, her name packed a punch.
The captain frowned. "The Duke reported you missing weeks ago." His gaze flickered to Aric, suspicion crawling into his eyes. "And who is this?"
Selene hesitated. A crucial moment.
Arics nearness blanketed me. "Your future king," he said suavely.
The air grew heavy. The captain stumbled backwards, visibly affected by the power behind Aric alone.
[System: Aqua Dossi ♪ Domination Aura]
The effect was instant. The guards who surrounded them shifted nervously, their hands dancing over their weapons but not drawing them. Their instincts told them to kneel.
The captain swallowed hard. "Yes, you may pass," he said hesitantly. "But the Duke should be told about this."
Aric smirked. Let him.
And with that, the crumbling gates of the Crimson Kingdom opened. As Aric stepped through the door, prepared to claim his prize.