“Can they return to their lives and go off and do something away from the academy or the Reges Dei and Kings?”
“No. This is a very special, select group. Once you walk through the gates of Omnia Academy, you are devoting your life to the Reges Dei and the Kings of Jupiter.”
“Wow, that’s a lot.”
“It is. But the reward is great.”
I sat quietly and watched the game for another inning, but my head was too full of questions to enjoy it.
“Why Jupiter?” I asked. “Why are they called the Kings of Jupiter?”
“The society was founded in ancient Rome. The name Reges Dei is Latin for King of Gods. But more importantly, Jupiter was the king of the Roman gods. The Reges Dei operated in Rome until they decided it was time for the collapse of the Roman Empire.”
Damn… These are some powerful guys.
“So, does the guy’s wife or family know about the Omnia student?”
“No. The Kings of Jupiter don’t get involved in relationships. They don’t engage in dating or sex with anyone outside the society. Again, the Omnia they select becomeseverythingto the King. The Omnia not only assists the King with work and any task they’re assigned, but they also fulfill any sexual requirements of their King.”
Oh.
Wait.
What?
“So… The only sex they have is with other Kings?” My pulse picked up as I considered this. This aspect was definitely a deal killer for me, at least I thought it was.
“They could, but typically the Kings prefer staff and faculty of the academy or council or Omnia students. Once they select their Omnia, though, they don’t stray from them. They’re for life.”
“I don’t know what to say to that. It’s a lot.”
Atlas turned to look at me. “Don’t let the sex scare you, Ryder. It’s amazing.”
“I’m not scared of sex,” I said with confidence. “I’m good with sex.”
We looked at one another for a long moment without saying anything. The corners of his mouth slowly turned upward into a smile. I wouldn’t call it a devilish grin, mainly because I felt at ease around him.
“Good. I’m glad to hear that.”
We chatted about random things over the course of the rest of the game and then flew back to Los Angeles. Though it was dark outside, I still stared out the window and watched the tiny lights below. The silence allowed me time to replay everything Atlas had told me.
As soon as we pulled up alongside the curb in front of my house, the two guys in the front seat got out and opened our doors.
“I want you to think about everything we talked about tonight, and if you have any questions or simply want to talk through it again, please call me. You can text if you’d rather,” Atlas told me as we walked slowly toward the door.
“Okay, I appreciate it. Really, I do.”
“And again, don’t worry about the sex. The four years spent at Omnia Academy are only the beginning to the very best years of each Omnia’s life.”
I smiled and nodded as we approached the dimly lit house. I could tell the tabletop lamp was on in the living room, and guessed that Pam was still up rocking one of the babies.
“I had an incredible time tonight. The jet, the Bentley ride, and the box seats at the game.”
Atlas stretched his hand out, and I took hold of it to shake. “The world is within your grasp, Ryder. This is only the beginning,” he said while our hands were still joined.
“Tonight has given me a lot to think about.”
“I understand completely. Remember, I’m a text or call away.”
