“As you are all aware, the relationship between the elite and minor Gods has been strained for several years.”
The crowd grumbled around us, tension thickening the air. It hung like static electricity, waiting for the moment that something would spark it into a full fire.
“Many of you felt as if there has been no justice for the suffering you endured when the demigods were taken from us and I am inclined to agree.”
Hunter looked in my direction. His eyes gave nothing away, but he would have to possess a soul to show any emotions.
“Recently, I’ve had the pleasure of speaking to many of you, including Archer.”
To the left of the dais, Archer stood and quirked an eyebrow. He caught my eye and mouthed the word,Sorry. My heart sank and bile rose in my stomach.
This was it.
He’d got me to meet my end.
Hunter continued, but his words sounded muffled in my ears. “What happened so long ago with the demigods may have been unfair and unjust, and that cannot be the case if we wish to progress and keep our existence. After all, the more unity we have here, the more likely mortals are to pray. Harmony in Elysia equates to harmony on Earth.”
There was a hum of approval.
“And I understand now that for unity to occur, it means justice must be served.” Hunter once again rested his gaze on me. “Therefore, in penance for what occurred, I offer he who killed with wild abandon and continues to show little remorse for all he does. I offer to sacrifice my brother to make amends for the great injustice that was had.”
The world around me swayed, and I struggled to breathe. What had he just said?
This was a meeting about my fate, but what Hunter had announced centred on Gray.
My head turned towards my soulbound, who stood next to me looking livid.
“Hunter,” Erik said, stepping forward. “You can’t be serious.” He was wide-eyed, looking up at his eldest brother.
His voice had broken the spell. The minor Gods around us began to clap and cheer. They were getting what they wanted. An eye for an eye, but I couldn’t let it happen.
I pulled at the cuffs, needing them off.
“Gray,” I said, trying to get his attention.
He didn’t look at me, laser focused on Hunter. Two Gods I didn’t recognise marched towards us.
“Grayson.” The panic coloured my voice.
Gray looked down at me. “I love you.”
“No, Gray. Gray, we have to do something.”
The Gods reached us and grabbed him by the shoulder. I couldn’t fight back. I was powerless in the cuffs.
“Erik! Look after her!” Gray called.
They pushed him through the crowd towards Hunter.
“I won’t go down without a fight, brother,” Gray said when he reached Hunter.
Hunter grinned. “I wouldn’t be so sure of that, Grayson.”
“A well-played ambush. I’ll give you that. Possibly the smartest thing you’ve done other than get us all to do your dirty work.”
“I hope you’ve said your goodbyes.”
“Gray!” I yelled, trying to get his attention.
