Page 153 of Consort of the Dragon King

“He will vehemently resist at first,” Kizoshi agreed. “However, he is a smart enough tactician to understand it will be for the best of everyone involved. It will bring freedom from tyranny and a long-lasting peace to Kunushi at long last.”

Sensing Auslin’s abject fear at the prospect of Kisano’s involvement, Kizoshi did her best to reassure him. “Kisano will not do any physical fighting, but his help in coordinating allies will prove invaluable.”

“And what about Sephen?” Auslin demanded.

“He will remain safe in the Tiora castle before joining Kisano in Norello to rule Kunushi,” Kizoshi answered.

“But that’s too dangerous!”

Kizoshi gave the mage a sympathetic look. “Do not fear, Auslin. All will be well because it is what fate and destiny both demand.”

“Although I hate to agree with Kizoshi, our armies will take out the factions who would protest Kisano's ruling,” Kalassandria said. “It would not be unsafe for them in that regard.”

“Kisano will come to understand his reputation for being a fair regent in Valzerna will help establish his power base in Kunushi,” Kizoshi explained.

“I still do not believe Kisano will ever agree to leave Tiora to become the king of Kunushi,” Kitsuki said with a frown.

“That is for me to worry about,” Kizoshi told her brother. “All you need to focus on is defeating Nasume.”

Auslin’s temper flared. “You’re the War Power! Why can’t you stop this senseless bloodshed?”

“I think perhaps it is best if you and I speak alone while they continue negotiations.” Kizoshi gestured for him to follow her out of the room.

Once they reached one of Kalassandria’s outdoor gardens, Auslin immediately began asking questions. “Why can’t you put a stop to this?”

“I warned you before this was an inevitability,” Kizoshi gently reminded him. “I do not start senseless wars, so please understand this one is necessary. I will not stop it.”

“But what if something happens to Kitsuki?” Auslin asked, visibly distraught at the prospect.

She gestured for Auslin to join her on a stone bench in the shape of a dragon. “As I said before, Kitsuki is a skilled warrior. He is more than capable of defeating Nasume. He has one of the best-trained militia in Talwyn. The warriors in his army ranks have plenty of reasons and motivations to win a war against Nasume.” When Auslin still didn’t look convinced, Kizoshi continued trying to reason with him. “I have assured you that Sophina, Liros, and myself all have Kitsuki’s best interests in mind. You do not need to worry about what the future may bring.”

“That doesn’t make me feel any better about Kitsuki going to war.”

“Kitsuki will have his victory.”

“Yeah, but at what cost?” Auslin demanded.

Kizoshi tried to be as delicate as possible. “Lives will be lost, but you must trust in your mate and the Powers protecting him.”

“I feel so useless,” Auslin complained with a sigh. He hid his face against his hands with a groan. “There has to be something I can do.”

“You will have your own role to play in this fight,” Kizoshi assured him.

Auslin looked at her in confusion. “What do you mean?”

“You will find a hidden ally to stand by yours and Kitsuki’s sides,” Kizoshi told him. “It will shape the rest of your futures.”

“But I don’t want anyone to die because of me!” Auslin protested. “How do I live with knowing this is happeningbecause I went through Fate’s Gate and rewrote Nasume’s entire life?”

Kizoshi sighed. “Everything has its cost, but this is a small price to pay for all the good it ensures in the future.”

“People are going to die, and it’s all my fault!” Auslin grew hysterical as his fears compounded.

She reached out to squeeze Auslin’s shoulder in reassurance. “You must understand all is as it should be. This is not your fault.”

“Kitsuki will lead good men to their deaths in battle. Knowing I’m indirectly responsible for so much carnage and misery…” Auslin trailed off with a miserable sob.

“You cannot blame yourself any more than you could blame Kitsuki,” Kizoshi tried to reason with him. “Your efforts would be better spent focusing on what you can do to support Kitsuki instead of worrying about things you cannot change.”

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