Tales of Regventus 3: Raya
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C A Tarkington
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Griffa embraces her role as leader of the Ring of Nine, determined to guide Max toward his rightful throne. As war looms, every choice matters, and the threads of magic, loyalty, and strategy intertwine in unexpected ways. Ansel feels the mysterious pull of his protector’s magic, tugging him toward Griffa in ways he cannot fully control, while Max uncovers a forgotten journal that may hold secrets powerful enough to change the kingdom’s future. In the palace, doubts and shifting alliances ripple through the halls as both sides prepare for the approaching conflict. With time slipping and stakes rising, every bond, every secret, and every choice could tip the balance between salvation and ruin.
Malin Will Lead
AGATHA
Agatha sat in amusement, watching her daughter twirl her skirt in front of a long mirror. The red and gold material shone in the sunlight, filtering through the window as Malin’s beautiful laugh sounded through the room.
“Do you think this was the right choice of dress?” asked Malin, turning to look at her back.
“I do. You look lovely, my dear,” said Agatha, standing up.
Malin turned and hugged her mother. “I’m so happy.”
“I’m very glad for you.”
“You do like Jacob, don’t you, Mother?”
“Of course, I like Jacob. Who could not like him? He is kind, caring, and quite funny—extremely handsome as well. The real question is, do you like him?” asked Agatha, taking her daughter’s hands.
“I love him. I love him more than I thought possible. He loves me too. I know he does. He is even willing to take my name and live here with me,” said Malin.
“How does Jacob’s father feel about him taking your name?” asked Agatha.
“He is very accepting of it. Jacob is the third son. His older brothers are already married with children.”
“Well, your father is over the moon about the decision. I know he said it didn’t matter, but I think he’s disappointed I never gave him any children of his own blood to carry on his name. You will secure his legacy.”
“Father could never be disappointed in you, Mother. He loves you,” said Malin, looking at her mother with concern.
“I know he does. I do not doubt his love, but his family is an old one. It would be hard to see the name disappear forever, not just for your father. It would be a loss for our people. You are carrying on two important lines, Malin. You are the future of the blood of Adalwen and your father’s family.”
Malin nodded.
“In fact, a couple of months after the wedding, I would like you to accompany me to Ring meetings.”
“Why?” asked Malin, sounding confused.
“I’m thinking of stepping down soon. I want to spend time with your father. He is talking about building a second home in the Valley. I would like to be able to see Von more often. You will need to start learning how to lead the Ring.”
“Me? You want me to lead the Ring?” asked Malin wide-eyed.
“Yes. Who else do you think would follow me as the leader? You’re my daughter.”
“I thought maybe Von might come to Abscon and lead. He would have been your heir for the throne.”
Agatha chuckled slightly. “Your brother is firmly settled at the Valley for now. He does not have the desire to lead or rule anything. I love him. He’s a good man but unsettled and wouldn’t enjoy such a task as leading the Ring. He wouldn’t do well with so much responsibility.”
“And you think I will? I’m not like you. You are wise and commanding. I’m silly and spoiled. How can I lead?”
Agatha took Malin to the bed and sat down. She pulled Malin down beside her and looked at her daughter. “You’re a little spoiled but not silly. You’re lighthearted, like both of your fathers. I have been lucky in that both Alastair and Brien could make me laugh. I needed it.
“I’m too serious at times. You’re wise in your own way, Malin. You will not lead like me. You will lead like you. You are your own person. I believe you can do this. You will have to do it.”
Malin closed her eyes and nodded. “I understand the responsibility trusted to me, and I will not let you down.”
Agatha smiled and squeezed Malin’s hand. “Now, no more of this. It’s your wedding day. We shouldn’t be talking about such serious things. Today is a day of celebration.”
There was a knock at the door.
“Yes?” asked Malin, looking at the door.
“Can your poor father finally see his beloved daughter?” asked Brien through the door.
“Yes, come in, Papa,” said Malin. She and Agatha stood as Brien walked into the room.
He stopped and smiled sadly. “You look absolutely beautiful, my darling. I can’t believe you’re all grown up and getting married.”
Malin took his hand. “I am, but I’m not going anywhere. Jacob and I will live here at the manor.”
“I know, but things will be different,” said Brien, patting her hand. “Don’t mind your sentimental father. I have a present for you.”
Malin smiled as Brien took something out of his pocket. It was a long chain with a locket on it. “I had this made for you,” said Brien, placing the locket in her hand.
The locket was an oval made of gold. On one side was the sigil of the line of Adalwen, a sun. She flipped it over.
On the other side was a large falcon with its wings spread.
Malin opened the locket to find two very small portraits painted inside. On one side was her mother and her father, Alastair. They looked young.
Malin had seen a few portraits of her father before. Ones families had saved as they fled Aurumist.
On the other side was a portrait of Brien. Malin looked up at Brien, smiling as he took the locket, closed it, and slipped the chain over her head.
“I wanted you to have something that represents who you are. You are the daughter of Queen Agatha and her consort, King Alastair. You have the blood of Adalwen running through your veins, but you are also my daughter. You may not have my blood, but I have loved and raised you. You’re truly my daughter and a Keene. The legacy of both of these great families lives in you, Malin. I’m very proud of you.”
Malin threw her arms around Brien. “I love you, Papa. I am sorry I never knew my father, but I’ll never regret being raised by you. I am your daughter and shall always be proud to be a Keene.”
Agatha took Malin’s locket in her hand. She opened it and stared at the portraits for a moment before turning to Brien and taking his hands as she kissed him on the cheek. “You truly are one of the best men I have ever met. You’ve kept us safe and loved us. I miss Alastair, but I love you, Brien. I’m very happy to be your wife and a Keene.”
“I know, my love,” said Brien. He kissed Agatha gently on her lips. “Now, we need to go, Malin, dear. You can’t be late for your own wedding.”
“Why not?” asked Malin, smiling. “They can’t start without me.”
