The Crown's Fire - Chapter 207

Chapter 207: Payment
Ezekiel’s mood was sour, largely because of how Katelina had been intently observing Amon. He was dying of curiosity about why she was so focused on him.

This Amon was very different from Devon, with no apparent similarities. Fortunately, Amon had inherited most of his physical traits from his mother, which helped mitigate some of the scrutiny from Helonians and other kingdoms.

So far, Amon had proven himself a worthy ruler of Helion, known for his generosity, kindheartedness, and just reign in the few months he had been in power.

The discussion in the meeting tent continued, and Ezekiel wanted everyone to understand his goals for this global summit. He resumed his speech with determination.

“Also, I want to inform everyone that I will be making a move for any unstable kingdom without a proper ruler. It may sound arrogant, and some of you may call it greed, but I don’t care what you think. You’re all entitled to your opinions,” King Ezekiel continued. “Ebodia’s main aim is unity to prevent war and maintain peace. This way, the common citizens will no longer need to suffer. Instead, they can live together harmoniously. I won’t let any innocent suffer because of an unstable and corrupt ruler.”

King Ezekiel’s bold words elicited various reactions inside the meeting tent, but none dared to voice their opinions openly.

“Many beings of different kinds suffered enough because of Devon,” King Ezekiel added, his eyes locking onto Amon. Amon met his gaze, waiting for him to continue. “I understand that Helion is still rebuilding. It’s still a work in progress, right? I believe King Amon has not yet managed to clean up all of Devon’s crimes.”

Ezekiel narrowed his eyes. He was talking about the monsters still inside the kingdom of Helion.

“Ebodia is willing to extend any help if Helion will ask for it,” King Ezekiel directly offered.

“I am very grateful for this offer, King Ezekiel,” Amon replied with a curt nod. “Rest assured that I will reach out if we need a helping hand.”

Ezekiel nodded before he continued with his voice commanding attention, “We stand at a crossroads. Our kingdoms have faced immense challenges, but this summit represents an opportunity for us to forge a new path. Unity among us is not just a lofty ideal; it is a necessity for our collective survival and prosperity.”

He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing, “I propose an alliance that respects the autonomy of each kingdom while ensuring mutual support and cooperation. An empire under my rule would not be about dominance but about creating a network of strength, where every kingdom benefits and thrives.”

Ezekiel’s eyes scanned the room, making sure to make eye contact with each ruler, including Katelina and Amon. “I understand your concerns and hesitations,” he acknowledged. “But I assure you, under my reign, all citizens, regardless of their origins, will be treated with equality and fairness. We will establish laws that protect the rights of all and ensure justice for any transgressions.”

He then turned his gaze to Amon, his expression softening slightly. “King Amon, your recent rise to power has not gone unnoticed. Your actions have brought stability and hope to Helion. I believe that by working together, we can achieve even greater things.”

Ezekiel’s words hung in the air, the weight of his proposal palpable. He hoped that his message of unity and cooperation would resonate with the gathered rulers and that they would see the potential for a stronger, more united future.

The room was silent for a moment, each ruler contemplating Ezekiel’s vision. Katelina felt a mixture of admiration and apprehension. She knew that aligning with Ezekiel could bring much-needed stability to Zion, but she also understood the complexities and risks involved.

Finally, King Amon spoke up, his voice calm and measured. “Your proposal is ambitious, King Ezekiel. I appreciate your vision for unity and mutual support. Helion is open to discussions and collaboration, but we must ensure that the sovereignty and unique cultures of our kingdoms are respected.”

Ezekiel nodded, acknowledging Amon’s point. “Of course, King Amon. My goal is to create an alliance that strengthens us all while honoring our individual identities. Together, we can build a future where our people thrive and our kingdoms flourish.”

The tension in the room eased slightly as the rulers began to see the potential for a cooperative alliance. Following this proposal, a few more discussions covered the events for the days ahead during the Global Summit. Once everything was ironed out, the meeting concluded. One by one, everyone left the meeting tent.

As Katelina walked out of the tent, she stopped abruptly upon hearing Ezekiel’s voice from behind.

“Queen Regent Katelina, may I have a word with you?”

Katelina could feel all eyes on her, so she quickly responded, “Yes, Your Majesty. We can talk over there…” She pointed to a makeshift table and chairs under a large shaded tree. She walked straight there, aware that Ezekiel was following closely behind her.

She sat, and Ezekiel took the chair opposite her.

“How is your sleep?” he asked.

She gave an awkward smile beneath her veil and answered, “It’s good.”

“Hmm, I see. I’m assuming that you already took the last sleeping potion, right?” he pondered.

“Yes,” she replied simply.

“I will help you sleep starting tonight and moving forward,” he stated straightforwardly.

Katelina’s eyes widened as she questioned, “Is that why you wanted to talk?”

“Yes, and also to inform you that I’ll now be claiming Zion’s debt. Nothing’s free in this world, and you said it yourself that your kingdom would be willing to pay me back for everything I’ve done,” Ezekiel stated with a serious face.

Katelina raised her eyebrows and remarked, “Tell me your terms and what you want as payment, Your Majesty. We’ll do our best to give it to you within our utmost capacity and capability.”

His face remained serious as he declared, “You. I want only you, Katelina. Marry me and be my Queen.”