Page 13 of Onyx Queen
Onika smiled, her stomach rolling with disgust. Her magic had changed, it was something more sinister. The dead carcass on her patio proved that.
As they were headed out to enjoy the pool, Commander Fritz stopped them.
“Your Majesty,” his face beaded with sweat, “there’s been an explosion in the Sapphire Kingdom.”
Onika covered her gasp, “Was anyone hurt?”
“There were a few casualties, but the Emerald Queen and Sapphire Queen were able to contain the damage. They have requested a conference call with all the kingdoms.”
“Yes…Luca,” Onika laced her hand in his, “the pool will have to wait I’m afraid.”
Luca leaned against the wall and listened as Onika spoke to the other kingdoms. This treachery was getting out of hand and they were no closer to finding Dimitra or the reason behind all the secrets.
For the next several hours, the six kingdoms discussed what they’d learned. Onika still refused to discuss the journal’s contents, it was no longer in her possession and had since turned up in the Amethyst Kingdom. Amalee also refused to discuss the journal. She only said she would read it when she felt it was the right time.
Commander Critcher, of the Diamond Kingdom, informed everyone that they had some leads on where Dimitra may be being held, and that he’d sent several search teams out to investigate.
“Sarifena, Emersyn,” Onika spoke, “I’d like to meet with you two. We need to discuss some things.”
“Is this about the journal, Onika?” Emersyn asked.
“Yes…” She huffed, “I’d rather have this discussion in person if possible.”
“How about we meet next week? That gives us time to get some security established in the kingdoms. Protecting the people needs to be top priority.” Sarifena responded, her eyes full of compassion and confusion.
“That works. I can come to Sapphire Kingdom… would that work for you, Emersyn?”
“Yes. I’ll be there.”
Onika disconnected the call and laid her head on the wooden table, “When is this going to end?” she mumbled against the surface.
Strong hands pressed into her shoulders, “I wish I knew. Come, lets go take that swim we talked about.”
Onika let Lucas lead her from the office and outside. She was grateful she had his support, without it, she knew the alternative was likely dangerous.
Chapter 13
“Your Majesty.”
Onika glanced up from the desk she was sitting at. She’d been in the library doing research on her lineage, trying to find something about the magic she held.
“Yes, Commander.”
“Constable James called. He has some concerns and frankly,” he sighed, “I do too.”
“Alright, talk to me.”
“They are confident the explosion in the Amethyst Kingdom was merely a diversion. He is deeply disturbed about what motivated the Diamond Queen’s kidnapping.”
“This is about the journal.” Onika sighed, she’d known the secrets it held were far too dangerous and eventually she’d have to share what she’d learned.
“Yes. I know you said you needed a week, but perhaps…” his voice trailed off.
“No. I’ll meet with Sarifena and Emersyn today. Can you arrange it?”
“Yes, I’ll go call them now.”
“I’ll prepare for the ride there. Have you seen Luca?”
