Proven (Daughters of the Sea #1)

by Kristen Day

  "Eva! Chara!" Seraphina plunged into the hall after them; sweat running down her brow and a disapproving frown pulling at the wrinkled corners of her mouth. "I must secure your crowns! Stop running and come here!" One stern look from Maera convinced the girls to listen before she was forced to step in. She watched them walk back from the opposite end of the hall, daring them to misbehave. They stopped to stand before their nanny in silence. Once her daughters were reined in for the moment, Maera turned her attention to her guests, instantly regaining her calm composure.

  "Welcome back." She nodded respectfully to Natasha, Finn, and Sebastian, but her next words were lost on me as my eyes greedily drank in her appearance. Somehow, the whole of Atlantis had been collected and reconstructed upon the single majestic woman standing before us. Hugging her lean body was a strapless dress made of...moss. Its dark green, velvety texture supported her breasts with tenderness before flowing down the curvature of her hips and cascading into a subtle train, pooling behind her as she moved.

  Two antiquated golden cuffs adorned both wrists, and from a single chain hung an inverted gold triangle with detailed etching around the edges, a single crystal nesting in its core. Her striking emerald eyes complimented the hue of the dress and contrasted with the stark white attire of everyone else in the room.

  A strikingly unique crown perched atop the infinite waves of her flaming hair; giving her an otherworldly look. Bronze branches twisted and melted together in a breathtaking display, stretching above to create a statuesque crown fit only for the Queen of Atlantis. A smaller version of the same crown was secured onto the heads of her two daughters; giving them a perfect reason to flop their heads around to see who could knock her sister's off first. With joy brimming in her eyes and her normally calm essence vibrating with anticipation, she addressed me and Finn with a devilish grin.

  "Participants from three of the seven Orders have arrived: The Tydes, Sons of Daimon, and Myriads," she announced simply. "I must request that you make preparations. It is almost time for the Conscript Exordium."

  STASIA

  The frenzy of excitement felt tangible as Finn and I trailed Maera up one of the seven bridges to the Games Metropolis, now swarming with activity. A collective whisper could be heard as our pending arrival echoed throughout the streets. As we passed beneath the stone arch, participants were already lining the main thoroughfare, capturing the moment on their phones and cameras. Their essences sizzled with exhilaration and their eyes widened in awe, filling my stomach with butterflies I didn't expect.

  Would I meet their expectations? Would they be disappointed? The Conscript Exordium was simply the meeting of the Captains, but for some reason my panic rose the more I thought about it. These six Captains were the strongest and most talented Tydes on the planet! While they had been training and embracing their heritage as descendants over the past decade, I was floundering in the world of humans with little direction and even less support. Would they see me as a fraud with a destiny-filled silver spoon in my mouth? Or would they welcome me as their true Leader, deserving of respect and reverence? The warmth of Finn's hand slid into mine and a peaceful darkness wrapped its arms around me; soothing my frantic thoughts and speeding heartbeat.

  "You are exactly where you belong," he affirmed amidst the doubt swirling within my thoughts. "Don't convince yourself otherwise."

  "So I'm hiding my panic well?" I countered sarcastically; knowing my essence must be a warbled mess of nerves that he could sense from miles away.

  "About as well as a wrecking ball." I could almost hear the smirk on his face, even in his thoughts. A giggle escaped my throat and my mouth relaxed into a smile. I squeezed Finn's hand and glanced around at the descendants wandering the streets with their belongings and astonished eyes. As the first wave of descendants to arrive, they were gifted the rare opportunity to discover where they'd be staying for the next two weeks before it filled to capacity. They were also the first descendants to breathe life into the Metropolis for this monumental resurrection of the Games; a place that had witnessed centuries of descendants, Gods, and Goddesses congregating within its golden hospitality.

  Blending in with the stone buildings were Maera's guards; their warm yellow suits camouflaging a staunch security presence that reminded me of the dangers the descendants weren't privy to. Instead of watching us, they watched everyone else as we passed by, searching for any hint of a threat. After several turns, we arrived at a set of cast iron gates; a sprawling, lush courtyard beyond peeking through its intricate designs. My gaze wandered to the spectacular arch stretching above, etched with Greek lettering I couldn't decipher.

  "Captains Village," Finn translated for my thoughts. The guards standing watch on either side of the gates pulled them open in practiced unison and ushered us through with respectful indifference. We made our way through overflowing beds of exotic flowers and manicured bushes to arrive at another, much longer rectangular courtyard surrounded by beautiful, sprawling cottages. At its center lay a long, skinny pool of crystal clear water; prepared to welcome and heal the weary bodies of the chosen Captains. Maera's steps slowed and she turned to address us with an expression of esteem gracing her distinguished features.

  "You will be escorted to your respective Order's cottage for the Conscript Exordium. I'm needed at the harbor for the arrival of the next wave of descendants. Your guards will ensure you return to the castle safely."

  "Thank you." I nodded while Finn bent down and kissed the top of her hand. As she made her way back toward the village entrance, my appointed guard hooked an arm in mine and peered down at me with warm brown eyes swimming with unabated charm.

  "Ready?" he prompted me. I glanced back at Finn, who gave me an encouraging wink as he followed his guard to the opposite end of the courtyard. I nodded to my brown-eyed protector.

  "Ready."

  "I'll be within earshot if you should need anything at all." As we approached the Tyde cottage, we stopped at its solid, wooden door. He pulled it open for me and I steeled my nerves. The vast common room of the cottage spread out before me in a soft cacophony of cushions, fluffy pillows, and plush rugs. I was immediately met by an older woman oozing motherly instinct and warmth. Before she even spoke, I wanted to climb onto her lap and go to sleep. She even smelled of cinnamon and apples. Her silver hair was pulled into a crisp bun and she wore a white apron that already boasted several stains from the kitchen. She bowed to me, took my hand, and patted the top of it reassuringly.

  "I am Juanita," she introduced herself. "It is an honor, my lady,"

  "It's nice to meet you." I placed my hand on top of hers. Her Tyde essence washed over me and I made the assumption that she must be the house mother.

  "Thank you for taking care of the Captains." I raised a leery eyebrow and grinned winningly. "I'd have to guess it's one of the hardest responsibilities of the Games."

  "You have no idea," she muttered, two dimples highlighted in her rosy cheeks. "I've never met a more picky eater than the six staying in this cottage."

  "You have my sympathies," I giggled with her.

  "Come. They are waiting for you in the back." I trailed behind her as she shuffled through the common room and led me through a glass door to the back lawn. Six Tydes stood at the ready in a straight line beneath a distinguished pergola, supported by four extravagant columns. Grapevines had twisted their way up to the slatted roof, making themselves at home and creating a natural barrier from the rays of the sun.

  Three girls and three guys watched me with curious apprehension. The gossamer layers of my white gown fluttered in the wind and out of the corner of my eye, the turquoise highlights in my hair danced in the breeze as well. The sun created a sheen across the skin of my arms; creating the effect that I was glistening, and I felt a smile blossom on my lips as I scanned the Captains.

  They wore a variety of white sweats, hoodies, sports bras, t-shirts, basketball shorts, and tennis shoes. The only splash of color was the neon turquoise script embroider
ed on each item that simply read 'Tydes'.

  As instructed by Maera not so much as an hour ago, I silently approached the first Captain and plucked one of the seven necklaces hanging from around my neck. Her lean figure towered over me, held by long, muscular legs and topped off with a mane of thick, strawberry blonde hair. A smattering of freckles dusted the pale skin of her face while vivid, silvery blue eyes blinked at me nervously. I noticed the hands at her sides shaking and the way she lightly chewed on her bottom lip in anticipation of my first words.

  Instinctively wanting to ease her nerves, I grasped both of her hands in mine with an understanding smile. Instead of reciting what I was supposed to declare, I decided to just talk to her instead.

  "What's your name?" The immediate jump of her eyebrows told me they had been advised to expect only a less-than-inspiring regaling of the ancient Games and their plebian responsibilities as Captains.

  "Ruby," she finally answered, her voice cracking. I channeled some calming essence and filtered it through my hands into hers. Her eyes widened in response, but her tense shoulders relaxed and a whisper of a smile flickered across her red lips.

  "And your sport?"

  "Swimming." Her chin lifted with a pride I instantly respected.

  "You'll have to come swimming with me in the lagoon," I insisted as she tried to hide the shock and excitement beaming from her features.

  "I would be honored!"

  "How long can you hold your breath?" I winked at her in challenge and she finally allowed herself to smile fully, her face brightening with a girlish fervor.

  "I hold the record." A strawberry-blonde eyebrow arched with deliberate provocation. "What about you?"

  I leaned in dramatically and whispered in her ear, "I don't have to hold my breath. I can breathe underwater."

  Her fair cheeks flushed in astonishment and she was left fumbling for words. I chuckled goodheartedly and released her hands, diverting my attention to the necklace again. I carefully slipped it over her head and twisted it into place around her neck.

  "Sas anagno?rízo? o?s Kapetánios," I recited one of the mandatory mantras. It meant "I acknowledge you as a Captain' according to Maera, who had insisted I practice the pronunciation over and over before leaving the castle. I was suddenly appreciative of her impromptu training. I straightened the designated Tyde Captain pendant that hung from the intricate chain before stepping back. The inverted golden triangle held a single turquoise gem and an engraving that read 'Atlantean Games Captain'.

  "Thank you," she marveled, unable to take her eyes off of the pendant. Continuing on to the next Captain, I removed another necklace and attempted to meet his steady gaze. Frigid green eyes stared out from beneath a low brow; accentuating aristocratic features and a steadfast jaw. They were intensely focused on something behind me, like a soldier standing at attention for his drill sergeant. A mop of wavy, bright blond hair softened his ultra-masculine features. Even with a hoodie on, I could tell his athletic build required many hours in the gym and rigorous training. His steely gaze lowered as he dipped his head in acknowledgement, and I fought back a slight ribbon of intimidation that slithered its way into my thoughts. His distinct confidence was obvious, and the sly smile on his face told me he had an ego to match his muscular build.

  "Vette," he broadcasted curtly and unprompted; further perpetuating my soldier comparison. His thick Nordic accent took me by surprise and I suddenly had a vision of him as a Viking warrior preparing for battle instead of a disciplined soldier. I sensed a restlessness he carried within, as well as a need for approval. "Rowing."

  My curiosity replaced any remaining intimidation and I became fascinated by the fighter standing before me. I could tell he was a rebel at heart, with a simmering fire that burned within him; one that could never be extinguished.

  "I don't believe I asked," I countered easily, amused at his forwardness.

  STASIA

  Something within me wanted to challenge his external rigidity and see if it was possible to catch a glimpse of the rebel within, fighting to break free. The cavalier smirk melted from his face and his eyes widened slightly with surprise; unsure what to say or do next.

  "Forgive me," he stated too loudly, a whisper of respect appearing in his eyes as they finally met my gaze. I smiled widely at him, furthering his uneasiness as he fought to figure out my intentions. I slid the necklace over his head and placed my hands on his broad shoulders.

  "Sas anagno?rízo? o?s Kapetánios," I proclaimed, and then with an austere salute and playful wink I added, "At ease, soldier."

  He stifled a chuckle and his cheeks reddened before I moved on to the next Captain, who was holding in a laugh at Vette's expense. I was immediately captured by her exotic beauty and the cluster of feathers peeking out from beneath jet black hair. Her copper skin accentuated the sea foam green of her large, feline eyes and her essence held an unwavering wisdom that was mirrored in her calm exterior. High cheek bones gave her an old world look and her Native-American descent became evident. An abrupt gust of wind swirled around me and its source smiled with a proud gleam in her eye.

  "Well done," I commended her with an approving smile. "What's your name?"

  "Tanis," she spoke clearly and strong; steadfast in her identity. "I'm the pankration Captain."

  I was instantly impressed with her, as I didn't expect a female to captain the pankration team. It was an ancient fighting technique - a mixture of martial arts and wrestling - something the Sons of Daimon excelled at. I couldn't wait to see what she could do.

  "Remind me to stay on your good side," I replied.

  "I wouldn't hurt you...too much," she joked.

  "I may have someone who could assist you in preparation," I mused. "I think I could convince him to provide his services to someone other than the Sons."

  "You don't mean....Finn?" She fumbled over his name and her voice hitched. She cleared her throat in an attempt to shield her surprise.

  "The one and only," I confirmed with a chuckle. I secretly wanted to see how Finn would fare against a fighter not in the Sons Order.

  I reached for her pendant just as she remembered a necklace she was already wearing. She hastily struggled to hide it beneath her shirt, but I stopped her with a hand and inspected it closer. Hanging from a silver chain was a turquoise stone in the shape of an arrowhead. Her voice lowered and softened as she explained its origin. "It was my grandmother's."

  "Leave it out." I smiled at her. "It's too beautiful to keep hidden."

  Her eyes dissolved into joy when I placed the Captain necklace around her neck. "Sas anagno?rízo? o?s Kapetánios."

  The rich, ebony skin of the next Captain was wrapped in black ink tattoos that snaked along his arms and collarbone. I imagined they also stretched along his chest and back, although they were shielded by his clothes. Profound dark brown eyes carried a hardness in them that hid the refreshing coolness of his essence. It reminded me of Carmen's, and I couldn't help but wonder if he was also descended from Oreithya. He was definitely connected to water in some way, not to mention the majority of his tattoos were variations and representations of waves. He looked down at me from a wide nose and full lips, a towering man of at least six feet-five inches.

  "You have an ability connected to water?" I guessed. His gentle smile complemented the appreciation in his eyes, and the dimples that followed instantly added a touch of innocence to his features.

  "I'm able to still the waves," he explained in a deep voice. I nodded knowingly.

  "And what's your name?"

  "Trevon," he answered proudly. "I'm the javelin Captain."

  My thoughts unexpectedly flashed back to Willow's fatal accident and I felt a bubble of emotion spring forward. I fought to suppress it, using Trevon's necklace as a distraction. I willed myself to return to the present and the overpowering feeling retreated as quickly as it arrived.

  "Sas anagno?rízo? o?s Kapetánios."

  The fifth Captain was already beaming at me as I stepped
in front of him. I could tell he was itching for an opportunity to make me laugh or provide any kind of entertainment to lighten the moment. His chestnut hair was only shaved on the sides of his head, giving him somewhat of a shaggy mohawk, and his compact stature stood in contrast with Trevon, who loomed over him. As I met his light green eyes, his wide smile morphed into a sloppy grin and I tilted my head to the side as I reached out to feel his essence.

  It washed over me with a salty tint wrapped in the playfulness of the smaller creatures of the beach and ocean. Knowing the two remaining sports, I made the assumption that this was the surfing Captain. To catapult the Games into the twenty-first century, Maera had added a sixth sport: surfing. You could imagine the excitement of the Sons when they heard the news.

  "G'day," he welcomed me with a captivating Australian accent.

  "And your name is...?" I felt my eyes light up at the opportunity of meeting so many different nationalities already.

  "Oliver." He grinned before scrutinizing the line of Captains with a cutthroat gleam in his eyes. "The dinky-di."

  "What'd you call me?" I countered sarcastically. He paused for a millisecond before realizing we had no idea what he had just said.

  "The real deal," he clarified with swagger and then continued with a lilt of charming arrogance, "The best Aussie surfer. It's the bloody oath..."

  "We might need a translator," I contemplated jokingly. The rest of the Captains laughed as he threw out another nugget of Aussie slang.

  "Good oil," he agreed with restrained sarcasm.

  "Now you're just doing it on purpose," I accused him with a snicker. I pulled the necklace from my neck and tugged it over his hair and around his neck. "Sas anagno?rízo? o?s Kapetánios."