Page 19 of Becoming One
CHAPTER 7
Orion had greeted the last of the guests to arrive and was ready to join Nelson for lunch.
“Orion, we have a last-minute entry that needs your approval,” Jorin stated from behind Orion.
Turning, Orion asked, “Who and from what coven house?”
Jorin looked at the form in confusion. “I’m not quite sure, Sir. It says his name is Radeem Napal. He says that Enoch is his scion representative.”
“Have you contacted Enoch?” Orion asked.
Jorin quickly replied, “I tried calling him, but his phone goes straight to voicemail.”
Orion tilted his head, firmed his lips, and let out a long breath. “Ezra did mention that Enoch said he got a lead on Nicu and had to go deeper into the forest. Maybe he’s in an area with no phone reception.”
“Ezra also said that Enoch may not be here for the start of the ceremony. We already have two entries for the Dire battle from his coven. This one is for Regal, but I just don’t have his name on the list. Could it be he forgot with everything going on?” Jorin asked cautiously.
Nodding, Orion replied, “Could be, but Enoch knows the danger we are facing with Nicu and should have made sure we were informed.”
“So, what do I do?” Jorin asked.
Orion didn’t like it. It made sense that if Enoch couldn’t make it to the opening ceremony then he was sending his contenders ahead of his arrival, but not to have included all the names could disqualify this Napal person. However, if he didn’t approve the man, it could look as if Orion was hesitant to fight the man if he was able to climb the brackets. Then again this could be an attempt on his Re’s life. Damn it.
The Ceremony was starting in the morning and it was known, if you did not start at the beginning, you did not start at all. If Orion refused the entry, and Enoch did send him, it would be like a slap in the face to Enoch and his coven. “Okay, allow Napal entry. However, I want a man on him at all times. He is to be given quarters in the outer housing area and add a few more guards.”
Jorin nodded. “Yes sir, I will see to it myself.”
“Thank you, Jorin. Were you not going to participate in the ceremony as well?”
Shaking his head, Jorin replied, “No sir. I’ll be with my men watching over the crowds. We have no requests for Dire in our coven except for the new position Ezra opened up because of the anticipation of new residents coming to Kaliss. Kragen is going to take on the contender who wins the bracket to ensure he is qualified for the position.”
Nodding, Orion replied, “Well then, I’ll see you at the opening ceremony.”
“Yes sir, and good luck on your trials. We’re all rooting for you,” Jorin said with a smile.
“Thank you, Jorin. I hope to do everyone proud,” Orion said.
Turning to leave he stopped when Jorin called out his name. Turning back around, Orion was surprised to see the three Dires standing there alongside Imperial Leader Jael, and in the background were members of both the Crimson Corps and the Imperial Guard, who were in full gear and all held there sabers horizontally in hand.
Orion was confused as Strix stepped forward, calling out, “Members of the Crimson Corps, present arms!”
Every Crimson Corps member stepped forward and lifted their swords.
Jael stepped forward, calling out, “Imperial Guard, present arms!”
Every member of the Imperial Guard stepped forward lifting their swords high into the air.
Both Jael and Strix called out, “Men! Arms!”
Everyone lifted their swords high in the air, shouting, “Orion! Orion! Orion!”
Kragen brought his sword back to his chest and marched in front of Jael and Strix. “Permission to speak?”
Orion gave a small nod, saying, “You may.”
“Sir, the Imperial Guard and the Crimson Corps would like to extend our wishes for luck on your upcoming battle. We have been proud to serve under such an honorable man. Our loss as an army, is the gain for our people.”
Orion was touched by the men’s actions and didn’t quite know what to say. For so long Orion had thought his people had shied away from him because of the scars that marred over half his body. Yet between his mate and now these men’s actions and words, Orion understood it was never others who held him back, it was himself. “I haven’t won yet, guys, but let me tell you this. I have never been prouder of anyone than I have been of all of you. Your loyalty and strength to protect our king and people has not gone unnoticed. For those of you going to participate in the Ceremony, best of luck. For those of you who are standing guard and keeping our visitors and people safe from harm, be careful and stay safe.”