Troubled Waters [4][Bonus Chapter]

The Storm Reapers stiffened. A few chuckled, amused by her defiance, while others instinctively gripped their weapons, their bodies taut like coiled springs.

Adrian's smirk widened, though his gaze turned colder. "I was hoping you'd say that."

I don't have to fight them, Akira thought as she gripped her weapon tightly. I just need to buy time and make a break for it.

"Tell me, Valkyrie, even if this so-called Nox exists," Adrian continued, his voice smooth as the sea before a storm, "why should we care? Why should we allow you access to our kingdom?"

Akira tilted her head slightly. "You may not care," she said, "but you stand in my way."

A slow chuckle left Adrian's lips. "So that's how it is."

The Storm Reapers tensed. They knew that tone.

Akira raised her sword slightly—not in outright aggression, but ready. "I won't ask you to move. If you stand against me, I'll break through."

The air grew heavier.