Kaelira had just stepped forward to investigate when—
Ethan suddenly reached out and grabbed her forearm.
In that instant, power surged between them like a tide breaking loose.
"Your Majesty," he said, his voice low and steady, carrying a weight it had never held before.
"I didn't expect you'd share such immense power with me. From this moment on, we're on the same side."
Kaelira froze.
She'd assumed that once Ethan got what he wanted, he'd vanish without a backward glance.
But his first words weren't about freedom or power—they were about allegiance.
We're on the same side.
Her heart gave a sharp thump. Her breath caught, just for a second.
Then, for the first time, she smiled—truly smiled.
"Good," she said softly.
She raised her hand and placed it firmly on his shoulder, the gesture solemn, almost ceremonial.
"From this moment forward, you are the First Champion of Sol'Rakka. My First Warrior."
The hall erupted.
