Page 175 of A Reign of Chromes & Shadows

A soft pulse of energy flowed from Rain’s palm.

Isarion gasped — the pain vanished instantly.

“H–H–How?” he sputtered, white brows knitting together in astonishment.

Rain smirked, leaning back in his seat.

“I’m not sure what triggered this power. It’s new. It only works through touch, and it transfers the pain into me, which isn’t ideal.” He shrugged. “I haven’t begun to understand its full extent.”

Isarion’s delight was palpable. He shot a triumphant look at one of his companions, as if to say, I told you so.

“How many powers do you have now, Sire?” he asked.

Rain’s unease flickered. He wasn’t ready to reveal everything, not to strangers who had already overstepped.

“Perhaps we can discuss that another time,” he said smoothly. “For now, this isn’t about me. You’re here to discuss the Red Princesses, yes?”

His gaze drifted over the five members of the Order. With their hoods down, their faces were fully visible.

Sister Lesker stood out immediately.

She was striking; impossibly so. Her beauty was sharp, symmetrical, almost ethereal. Her hair, a flowing wave of white-blonde, fell to her waist, characteristic of the White Aetherial. Her icy blue eyes were framed by a deep navy ring, making them even more arresting.

She radiated maturity and authority, though her skin showed no sign of age.

“Yes, Your Majesty,” Isarion said. “It is a pleasant surprise to see they have found comfort in you so quickly.”

He clasped his hands together, bowing his head.

“I offer our deepest apologies for imposing in such a way. Our long travel and eagerness clouded our judgement. I hope this does not impact your faith in the Order. We are yours to command.”

Rain studied the group carefully. The Order could shield their intentions if they wished but they didn’t. Their channels were open, their energy accessible. A gesture of trust.

“It doesn’t bode well for you or the Shadow Guard,” Rain said bluntly. “But let’s put it behind us and ensure it doesn’t happen again. This is meant to be a sanctuary for the girls. I promised them my protection. They trust me. And if anything were to undermine that trust…”

He paused, softening the threat that wanted to slip out.

“Well. I wouldn’t hesitate to live up to my reputation.”

The stern faces around the table stiffened.

Isarion chuckled; he knew Rain better than most, and pride shimmered through his aura.

Sister Lesker straightened, her regal posture somehow becoming even more commanding.

“Your Majesty,” she said, her voice smooth and resonant, “allow me to introduce myself. I am Agnita Johanna Royale Lesker, head sister of the Order of Aurora, keeper of the secret.”

Rain’s eyes narrowed slightly; Royale.

Agnita smiled softly at his confusion.

“Yes,” she said, “I am a distant cousin of yours. The White King is my brother. Though we of the Order do not recognise him as our king. We belong to the Rainbow Kingdom. We have awaited the prophesied birth of the True King.”

Her gaze sharpened, piercing.

“Do you claim to be him?”

Her intensity would have intimidated most but Rain met her stare with calm, steady resolve.