The acrid scent of smoke thickened as Adrian and the goddesses sprinted toward the gates of Zarpha, the flickering glow of fire growing more intense with every step.

The city walls, which were towering and stood sturdy, loomed ahead like silent sentinels. The streets near the gate were eerily empty, save for the faint echoes of muffled chants and the solemn toll of bells from within.

As they approached, Adrian slowed down his movement, his fiery chains flickering and dimming.

The sight beyond the gates wasn't what he had anticipated; it wasn't looking or sounding like a city in the middle of a war or battle. Instead, the sounds that reached him were that of mourning.

Massive bonfires dotted the city, their flames licking the night sky, casting dancing shadows over the cobblestone streets. The air was filled with the rhythmic sounds of chants, blending with the sombre toll of the great cathedral's bells.

Adrian stopped, his chest heaving as he took in the scene. The firelight reflected off his blade, which he slowly lowered. "It's not an attack," he murmured, looking around in confusion.

"What is it, then?" Medea asked, her black flames still crackling faintly around her hands.

A guard walked towards them carefully, his armor shining in the light of the fire. "Who goes there?" he called in a tone that was more of wariness that hostile.

Adrian stepped forward, his posture calm yet commanding. "Adrian, special advisor to Queen Alannah and hero of the city."

The guard's eyes widened slightly, and he gave a small bow. "My apologies, Lord Adrian. Her Majesty is in mourning… as is the entire city." He gestured toward the bonfires. "The King has passed."

Adrian froze, the news hitting him like a blow. His mind raced as he processed the guard's words. The King is dead?

Behind him, Lilith let out a low whistle. "Well, that explains the firelight."

Hera frowned, her golden spear dissipating into shimmering light. "This complicates matters."

"Quiet," Adrian said softly in a firm voice. He turned back to the guard. "We'll proceed to the palace."

The guard nodded and stepped aside, motioning them to step forward.

As they entered Zarpha, it was obvious how heavy the city's sorrow was. People gathered in small groups near the bonfires, their heads bowed as they chanted prayers for their fallen king.

The flames illuminated tear-streaked faces and weary postures, the city drowning in sorrow.

"They're devastated," Ava whispered, her usual energy subdued as she took in the scene. "He must have been important to them."

"Well, I won't say that," Adrian replied, his jaw tight. "But the presence of King Varos held Zarpha together through sheer will. His loss leaves a vacuum... one the Shadow Court will exploit if we're not careful."

The group approached the palace, its grand silhouette stark against the night sky.

Guards flanked the gates, their expressions grim as they opened the way without question. Inside, the atmosphere was just as heavy. The halls were dimly lit, the flickering torches casting long shadows on the stone walls.

Servants moved silently, their faces pale with grief.

In the throne room, Queen Alannah stood at the center, dressed in a flowing black gown that shimmered faintly under the torchlight. Her usually vibrant eyes were shadowed with exhaustion, but they brightened slightly as they landed on Adrian.

She stepped forward, her hands clasped in front of her.

"Adrian," she said, her voice soft but tinged with relief. "You came."

Adrian inclined his head respectfully. "Of course, Your Majesty. I came as soon as I could."

Her lips curved into a faint smile. "I shouldn't be surprised. You always keep your word." She glanced at the group behind him, her gaze lingering briefly on Hera, who met her look with a polite nod. "And you've brought... more companions."

"They're with me," Adrian said simply, his tone leaving no room for doubt. "And they're here to help."

Alannah nodded, her shoulders relaxing slightly. "I'm glad you're here," she admitted, her voice wavering just enough to betray her vulnerability. "The timing... it couldn't be worse."

Adrian stepped closer, his expression softening. "I'm sorry for your loss, Alannah. King Varos was a great man."

She blinked rapidly, as though holding back tears, and gave a small nod. "Thank you," she said quietly. "It means a lot coming from you."

The goddesses stayed back, sensing that this was a private moment

Hera observed them both, her blue eyes filled with an understanding that went beyond their limited interactions.

Lilith studied the throne, her crimson eyes tracing the intricate designs carved into the wood.

Selene remained silent, her silver hair falling loosely around her face as she kept a respectful distance.

Eris leaned against the wall, her usual snark replaced by a rare moment of somberness.

Medea stood tall, her posture confident and assured, the flames dancing along her fingertips.

Ava was fidgeting with her staff, her amber eyes darting around the room.

Abyss was watching everything carefully, her violet eyes taking in the details of the room and the emotions on everyone's faces

Adrian placed a reassuring hand on Alannah's shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze. "I know things seem dire now, but we'll get through this. Together."

Alannah placed her hand over his, her touch sending a jolt through his body. "You have no idea how much your support means to me, Adrian. And I know the others will rally around me too."

"Of course," Hera interjected, her voice strong and clear.

The others echoed her sentiment, their voices a chorus of support.

Alannah smiled, her gaze traveling across the group before settling on Adrian once more. "It's good to see you again," she said softly. "And I'm grateful for your presence, even though the circumstances aren't ideal."

Adrian returned her smile, his hand lingering on her shoulder.

"We'll do whatever we can to help," he assured her.

Alannah gestured toward a side door. "Would you... would you walk with me? Just for a moment?"

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