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Agnar nods, and his expression grows more serious. “You really think you can take Zeru’s champion? These gods don’t play fair.”

“I don’t need fair.” I craft the water into a series of ice daggers. “I just need to win.”

“Okay, but if I were you⁠—”

I still as something shifts the air around us.

Something divine.

The water rings around Agnar’s head shiver and disperse without my command. The earth beneath our feet stills, as if holding its breath.

The familiar prickling sensation of being watched by a being greater than myself crawls over my scalp. Though I’ve experienced the sensation before in Rivlan’s presence, this feels heavier. More oppressive.

Agnar’s lip quivers, his attention fixed on a point beyond my shoulder. “Sterling…”

I pivot slowly, already knowing what I’ll find.

The air shimmers, and reality folds open in smoldering sparks of light as the God of the Heavens comes forth. The radiance from his crown of stars materializes first.

I wondered if this asshole planned on making an appearance.

Blazing with starlight, Zeru’s form burns too brightly to stare at directly. Gazing at him is the equivalent of peering into the sun. Divine power radiates from him.

My stomach clenches, reacting to the energy.

“Awww, fuck.” Agnar tosses his blade to the ground in a gesture that’s half respectful, half resignation.

I remain standing, my water still circling my arms, though the element now trembles against my will. The god’s presence interferes with magic. Particularly mine, it seems. No doubt a deliberate move.

Zeru’s gaze—like the sun at its highest peak—settles on me.

It’s not like the spring sun that dapples through the leaves, painting those below the canopy in warmth, or even the hot summer sun that roasts those clad in leather and metal armor.

No, this is the type of radiation that blisters human skin. Direct and unrelenting rays that wither feathers and evaporate every last bit of moisture from your throat.

Centuries of divine judgment bolster that power.

Fuck. Why is he here? This can’t be good.

My chest tightens with apprehension, but I remain calm and resolute. No matter the purpose of Zeru’s visit, no amount of intimidation will prevent me from standing as Rivlan’s champion. I’ve already sealed my commitment to the God of Water.

I straighten my back, allowing the water around my arms to dissipate. No point in pretending I can command the element effectively in his presence.

But I’ll be damned if I bow to him.

Zeru glides forward, his celestial form rippling. The air around him glimmers, distorting the ground’s boundaries as if the world itself bends to accommodate his presence. That veil fades just enough for me to discern his features. Golden hair, brilliant smile, and gold eyes, all reflecting the light that emanates from his skin.

His expression is carefully composed into something resembling fatherly concern, his brow furrowed. The effect is akin to tying a bow around a wolf’s neck. No attempts at masking can hide the animal’s underlying predatory nature.

“Prince Knox.” My formal name chimes in his otherworldly voice. “I understand your reservations. Truly, I do. You and your queen are in a difficult position.”

My skin hums with irritation, but I say nothing. Zeru isn’t here for an explanation. Gods don’t visit mortals to understand. In their arrogance, they believe they already know everything about us.

Agnar inches closer to me, his shoulders tense.

“Tirene has suffered greatly in recent years. War. Betrayal. The transition of power twice in so few years.” Zeru’s fingers trail starlight as he gestures. “And now you align yourself with Rivlan’s interests.” His tone shifts to admonishing. “You’re being foolish by tying yourself to his side of this conflict.”

I work to keep my face neutral, careful not to show my disdain.