He mulled over his mixed feelings about Saba, his worry about the growing Syndicate challenges, and the threat of Nightshade’s influence.
Seeking answers to how he was going to keep it together, unite his people, and give them the fortitude to endure.
His bladed contemplation brought him close to a trance.
With every swing, he became one with the universe, connected to ancient wisdom and the power of the present moment.
Each strike was a step towards inner peace, and every hit released tension and stress.
The sound of metal cutting through the air was a mantra, a sensory meditation that helped soothe away the anxiety and angst in his heart.
Not a bad way to start the day.
Chapter 21
SABA
The reception garden onboard the Lisade ark ship, theLight Nautilus,was a vision.
The event’s designers had created it to be a feast for the senses, a tapestry of the finest fabrications woven with masterful skill and artistic imagination.
From the delicate petals to the intricate details of each arrangement, the florists had left no corner untouched, transforming the venue into a blooming paradise.
The air was heavy with the scent of roses, lilies, and other exotic blooms, their vibrant colors cascading from every surface.
The soft buzz of bees and butterflies was audible as they flitted from bloom to bloom, adding to the melody of laughter and chatter from the guests.
Mouthwatering treats adorned with edible blossoms were on display, tempting the taste buds and filling the room with the aroma of sugary delights.
Dishes bursting with flavors and homemade desserts were embellished with chocolate foliage.
Saba paused beneath an arched-hanging vine that shimmered under the sun’s rays and studied her family members, bracing herself for their ire.
It was her cousin Zsófia who first spotted her.
She turned to grab her mother’s arm, a click of disdain escaping her lips. The murmur of voices died down as all eyes shifted toward Saba.
She squared her shoulders, refusing to let their scrutiny unnerve her, and began to walk through the crowded hall toward where her kin was standing.
Flanking her was Koda, armed to the teeth, who had stepped in to fly her to the Lisade home ship and provide her with security.
Still, her clothes were her armor. She took refuge in her stunning dress, one Miral had helped her obtain.
It was a work of art with layers of shimmering fabric in shades of lilac and lavender that cascaded down her curves in elegant ripples.
The intricate embroidery of delicate roses and vines infused with glittering, moving strands of diamonds caught the light, almost making them appear real. Her ensemble worked as the whispers and gasps of awe followed in her wake.
As she approached her aunt and uncle, their judgmental gazes fell upon her, assessing each step and every move she made.
Her uncle’s twisted expression was like a thundercloud on the horizon, a harbinger of the coming storm.
Her aunt’s disapproving frown deepened as she raked her eyes over Saba’s appearance, no doubt finding fault in the detail of her attire and demeanor.
Saba held her head high, projecting confidence that belied the nervous flutter in her stomach.
She reached the small group they huddled in and stood before them, meeting each pair of eyes with a steady gaze that dared them to challenge her.
Tewa leaned forward with a suspicious look. ‘Saba,’ he addressed her with a bow, his tone calm and calculating. ‘We were beginning to wonder if you had forgotten about us.’
