A King’s Feast

Chapter 26: A King's Feast

Lucian's rule was no longer just an idea—it was a fact. The Vultures' former base was now his stronghold, and the survivors who had pledged loyalty were being molded into his army.

But control required more than just fear. It required dominance.

And tonight, he would prove why he was their king.

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A Celebration of Power

The warehouse had been transformed. Fires burned in barrels, casting dancing shadows against the cracked walls. The scent of roasted meat filled the air—freshly hunted game, seasoned with stolen spices.

Lucian sat at the center, legs spread, watching his people feast.

Evelyn stood beside him, a glass of whiskey in hand, her body pressed close. She whispered, "They fear you… but they also admire you."

Lucian smirked. Good.

Fear alone made men break. But fear mixed with admiration? That made them willing to kill.

Across the room, a man was laughing—one of the ex-Vultures. He was getting too comfortable.

Lucian's eyes narrowed.

He stood.

The laughter died instantly.

Lucian walked toward the man, his boots echoing against the cold concrete. "Enjoying yourself?"

The man swallowed. "Y-Yes, boss. Just… celebrating the victory."

Lucian tilted his head. Victory?

"No." He gripped the man's shoulder, squeezing hard enough to make him wince. "You don't celebrate until I say so."

The man nodded quickly. "Of course, boss."

Lucian released him, then turned to the others. "You're all here because I let you live. Never forget that."

Silence.

Then, one by one, they bowed their heads.

That's right.

Lucian returned to his seat, satisfied.

He didn't need to kill every fool who stepped out of line. Only the ones who forgot their place.

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A Queen's Devotion

The feast ended late into the night. The stronghold grew quiet.

Lucian sat in his private chamber, cleaning his gun.

A knock.

"Enter."

Evelyn stepped in, wearing only a thin robe.

Lucian's gaze swept over her curves, barely hidden beneath the fabric. "Something on your mind?"

Evelyn smiled, locking the door behind her. She didn't answer.

She didn't need to.

She approached, crawling onto his lap, straddling him.

Lucian smirked, tossing the gun aside. "You're in a good mood."

She leaned in, lips brushing against his ear. "You won."

Lucian chuckled, gripping her waist. "Of course I did."

And tonight?

He would claim his prize.

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To Be Continued…