Page 125 of A Reign of Chromes & Shadows

Rain explained everything.

The Order of Aurora.

Isarion’s pledge to assist him, leaving out the parts that labelled him as a king.

The Shadow Guard’s safehouses.

The need for secrecy.

The necessity of abandoning his squad at the border to protect them.

The long-term goal of moving the girls into White territory under the Order’s protection.

He laid it all bare; every risk, every betrayal, every hope. It was a leap of faith; one he felt was the right thing to do.

Taffy listened without interruption.

Henry’s energy radiated shock, then admiration, then fierce loyalty.

Rain felt something he hadn’t expected:

trust.

Real trust.

Not political convenience.

Not manipulation.

Not fear.

These people—these strangers—were willing to stand with him.

“I wish you good luck,” Taffy said warmly as the conversation wound down. “My wife and daughter will attend dinner at your home next Cyrday. I, unfortunately, will not.”

He paused, mischief glinting in his eyes.

“I do hope your first meeting goes well. Candy can be a handful, but it is her armour. It would do well to remember that.”

“Quite a handful,” Henry added with a knowing smile.

Rain kept his internal groan to himself.

The last thing he needed was a pampered princess with a temper.

“She sounds… intriguing,” he managed, though intrigue was the last thing he felt.

“One more thing,” Rain added before Taffy could disconnect. “Sir, I would like to remove Captain Shailon from his position and appoint Duke Rosenberry as captain. I need my next in command to be competent and reliable.”

Taffy waved a hand.

“They are yours to command. Do as you see fit. Goodbye for now.”

The hologram flickered; then vanished.

Chapter 39

Rain’s heart pounded as he watched the truck carrying his squad turn toward the Blue Kingdom.