Callon grimaced faintly. “Nico takes some getting used to. But his counsel has proven wise, if unconventional at times.”
Roan made a derisive sound, earning a sly grin from Nico. Callon threw them both quelling glares before returning his attention to their hosts. “Might we prevail upon your aid, King Aurelius? Any information could prevent catastrophe.”
The Spider King exchanged another loaded glance with his mate. Nico repressed a smile. Even without words, the power dynamic here was clear. The lady ruled this court in truth, her shrewd mind the one they must persuade.
With an elegant shrug, Athena said, “We know little of Azure’s allies outside rumor and hearsay. But discretion guides our steps.” She studied them intently. “Sometimes, respecting secrets preserves the peace. As lions should understand.”
Definitely no help forthcoming then. Nico kept his easy smile in place, though irritation pricked. He caught Lyric’s eye, and she gave an almost imperceptible shake of her head. Message received. Additional pressure would not sway the obstinate royals.
Callon seemed to realize the same, as he smoothly changed course. “Of course, we defer to your wisdom in protecting your people.” He stood and bowed respectfully. “Might we beg just one further boon before taking our leave? There are some who yet remain here that should return with us, by your grace, of course.”
Athena raised one elegant brow. “Theanimithat wear the marks of the Kingdom of Claws.” At Callon’s nod, she waved a hand dismissively. “Yes, yes, collect them if you wish. We’ve no need of them using our resources when they are of no use to us.”
Nico’s jaw tightened at her callous words. Just like the Spiders to treat something not important tothemas nothing special. But now was not the time to pick that battle. He cleared his throat and raised his brow at her.
Athena rolled her eyes. “Fine, shaman.Youcan have the ones with the Kingdom of Chaos marks as well.” She sighed dramatically. “Do you also wish us to release all the other kingdom’sanimito you?”
“That won’t be necessary,” Callon interjected. “We trust you will do right by the other kingdoms.”
The rest of the formal parting words passed in a blur. Nico’s shoulders loosened imperceptibly once they were away from the cunning royals. Their mission here may have failed, but at least Callon secured theanimi’srelease. Small victories.
As they made their way out of the palace, Lyric pulled him aside, concern in her eyes. “You tread a dangerous line provoking the queen so, Nico,” she chided gently.
Nico flashed her a rakish grin. “Now, Lyric, you know I was a perfect gentleman.” At her unimpressed look, he laughed. “Someone had to ask the question. Royals don’t like getting their hands dirty if they can avoid it.”
Lyric shook her head ruefully. “Be cautious, my friend. The silk may appear smooth, but still it ensnares.” With a final squeeze of his arm, she glided away.
Nico watched her go. However this brewing storm ended, the aftermath would leave scars. He only hoped friendships and loyalties could weather the coming trials. With a deep breath, he went to join the others as they waited at the bottom of the stairs to the mansion. When their heads turned in his direction, Nico glanced over his shoulder and saw a dozen or more females come out of the doors they’d just exited.
He put on his best smile and nodded to them as they walked past. Nico noted the ones with bare arms that had tattoos representing the Kingdom of Chaos. He wondered how many of the Damarians from his kingdom would find their mate and be made whole.
Once they’d all passed him, he turned and followed until he stood next to Callon, Bane, and Roan. The Kingdom of Claws Shaman stood with his arms folded in front of his chest, glaring down at the females. He looked ready to throttle them rather than assist them.
“Are all of you here of your own free will?” Roan asked, his voice gruff.
Some of them nodded, and some spoke up and said, “Yes.” There was one that caught Nico’s eye. She seemed to be attempting to hide behind two of the other females, and they kept shifting every time this petite blonde moved.
Why are they hiding you, Skittish Mouse?Nico wondered as he began to walk, taking slow steps around the circle of females.She tried to shift away quickly when she realized that Nico was watching her intently.
“What is your name?”
The female’s eyes widened as she glanced up at the two women who still attempted to move in front of her. But Nico pinned them with his stare and slowly shook his head.
“What’s the problem?” Callon asked.
Nico tilted his head, his eyes narrowing as he watched his prey. “We seem to have a little bird that is with the wrong flock.”
“She’s Kingdom of Wings?” Roan asked.
Nico’s hand shot out, and he grabbed the female’s arm. He made sure not to hurt her. He pushed up the long sleeve of her baggy sweater until he could see the tattoo on her bicep. His eyes widened as he stared at the snake he’d only ever seen one other time.
“Kingdom of Venom,” Nico corrected Roan.
“What the hell?” the Kingdom of Claws Shaman cursed. “Why are you with these women?”
“Leave her alone,” one of the tall guard dog females said through clenched teeth. “She’s been through enough.”
“She’s been hurt?” Callon’s voice was filled with concern.
