Page 52 of The Powers of Nyx

“The Phoenix Compound is in the mountain behind the palace,” Maeve said, and at the sound of her voice, I turned to her completely. “And Oberon Academy is on the other side of the mountain.”

I blew out a harsh breath at the reminder. “Right. The academy.”

At least it was close. I’d take that. There would be a mountain between the kids and me, but at least I knew they were close.

The driver took us into a basement, though I wasn’t paying much attention. The powerful wards surrounding the palace brushed over my skin as we drove down. I barely suppresseda shiver. They were hard getting used to, but they weren’t nearly as jarring anymore. But it was strange having some basic understanding of them. The longer we drove, the more recognised; they were deeply ingrained in the structure of the palace, like each brick and stone had been carved with a charm for protection.

I shook my head. Another thing I’d have to learn. I glanced over at Adrian, who watched me with a soft, knowing smile.

From my other side, Maisie stifled a yawn just as the car pulled into the large garage. There were all sorts of vehicles pulled into the hundred or so spaces, but the limo kept driving until we reached the other side of the lot, which circled around a small garden plot.

“I feel like we’re at one of those really sophisticated hotels,” Thea said. “And there’s going to be a butler waiting for us, who’ll turn up his nose at how awful we look. Ivy, we look terrible.”

I looked down at my clothes and grimaced. Unfortunately, she was right. The yoga pants and oversized t-shirt were totally out of place. “I’m sure we’ll get to, freshen up before we see anyone, right?” I glanced between my mates, who shrugged. “You have got to be kidding me. We’re meeting the Queennow?”

Adrian, looking rightfully ashamed, rubbed the back of his neck. “I thought you knew.”

“Obviously not,” I replied, snatching my hand from Elias and crossing my arms. “I smell like boat and car accident still. If I have to meet yourmother, I’d rather do itclean.”

Before he could respond, the limo rounded the little garden plot and stopped. Like Thea had predicted, there were several people waiting for us. Some dressed in clean, pressed black suits, with their hair combed back. Others were in gear, with weapons strapped to their belts and actual earpieces like the secret service.

The door opened, and we were ushered out. Rowan went first and took Ginny with him; Maeve and Eloise went next, while Adrian followed, giving me one last look before joining the others. Elias gave my knee a squeeze before sliding out and unfolding to his full height. He offered his hand, the warmth of his love so clear.

I sucked in a breath and reached for his hand. His fingers wrapped around mine, and he gave me a gentle tug.Don’t worry about the way you’re dressed,he whispered down the bond,you’re perfect.

I wanted to respond, but as soon as I left the safety of the limo, I saw her.

Queen Greer.

19

IVY

ASsoon as our eyes met, I recognised the immense power radiating from the woman across from me. It swept over us in waves, reaching and prodding, a living entity that called for mine. It caressed me with a gentleness that made all the panic and fear disappear, familiar in a way that shouldn’t make sense, but did.

Was I supposed to bow? Get on my knees? Do something? Queen Greer was surrounded by a group of imposing men, all of whom radiated the same kind of strength as her. I recognised them immediately as her mates.

Adrian’s father stood by Greer’s side, and when my eyes passed over him, he offered me a kind smile. The others were so different; one had tawny brown skin and sharp features. He was dressed in intricate robes, but I noticed weapons strapped to his body. Another was tanned, his cheekbones dusted with something shiny, and he had dark hair highlighted with gold. Another had long, waist length inky-black hair and skin just as dark, with eyes a molten silver that flashed when I glanced at him. A younger looking male stood beside him, who nodded to me when I met his stare.

Before I could take in the others, a small woman, no taller than 5’2’’, popped out from behind the Queen and her mates. She had a bright, excited smile, and her eyes were a stark shade of violet. Her hair was the same shade of red as Rowan’s, but it was long,with some strands twisted and others braided, and there were charms dangling from the ends that chimed with each step.

Her arms opened, and she went straight for Rowan. “My son has returned.”

Rowan grunted as she enclosed him in a tight embrace. “Mother...” He looked so uncomfortable, but I was struck with how amusing the interaction was. No one blinked as she held him; only the Queen looked mildly amused, like she was used to it.

The small woman hummed under her breath as she squeezed him tight. “Don’t break my heart, boy. This’ll go easier if you hug me back.”

Rowan sighed and gently patted her back. “Good to see you too,” he muttered.

When she released him, she took a moment to look over the group. “Everyone’s alive. And my, aren’t they precious.” She clapped her hands together as she took in the three kids gathered around me. They were a little scruffy looking, with their wrinkled clothes and barely brushed hair, but at least they weren’t hiding from her.

His mother’s eyes went from the children, skimming over the rest of us, before landing on Thea. “You, girl. You’re an interesting one, aren’t you?”

If Thea was uncomfortable, she didn’t show it. She shrugged before crossing her arms. “You tell me. Got any insight into what I might be? I’m starting to think I should start taking bets.”

Rowan’s mother chuckled. “I like you. Your future will be fun.”She turned away from my friend, who clamped her mouth shut, and met my gaze. “And you, Daughter of Nyx. How are you?”

I blinked at the question. Everyone else got bat-shit-crazy, and I’m asked how I am?