For Crown and Queen: The Crown of Amiriel, #2

By Shade Rachea

A missing queen. A warrior princess. A divided kingdom.

Continuing their quest for the coveted Crown of Amiriel, Raynin and Riley journey to Kalar in search of the next piece of the crown. A chance encounter with a warrior princess intent on rescuing her mom prompts the teens to make a deal, placing them in the middle of another war.

With old and new enemies after them and more battles to come, Raynin and Riley must continue their fight for survival as they work towards their goal of finding and protecting all seven pieces of the Crown.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Shade Rachea
• Release date: Jan 11, 2023
• ISBN: 9781386300045

Shade Rachea

Shade Rachea is a high school English teacher who lives in California with her family and loves to spend her time hanging out with them. When she isn’t writing romance or fantasy, she can be found binge reading or shopping for new movies and books. 

Book preview

Prologue

Serin walked out onto the second-floor balcony and looked out into the night. The moon sat high in the sky, illuminating the closest town near the castle and everything else in the distance. Everything in the kingdom of Darum seemed peaceful, but that wasn’t the case. War was brewing, and civil unrest was increasing because of the rebels. The last few days were chaotic and stressful for those loyal to Queen Lira. Serin and the Asuri, the queen’s all-female guard, spent the days fighting off threats to the Crown and making sure innocents didn’t get caught in the crossfire.

Serin leaned against the railing and closed her eyes, embracing the silence. The sound of footsteps behind her jolted her upright. She swiftly drew her sword, bringing the blade to a female servant’s throat as she turned around. The servant’s eyes widened in alarm as she visibly swallowed.

Serin lowered the sword as she took a deep breath. Sorry. She sheathed her sword and turned around to continue looking out at the kingdom. Did you need something?

Queen Lira sent me to remind you to get some rest.

Serin nodded but remained facing away from the servant. You can report to my mother that I won’t rest until there is no longer a threat to her life and this kingdom.

The servant frowned but left Serin without another word. Serin returned to leaning against the railing. She began to relax and close her eyes when an arrow, set ablaze, flew towards her and struck the wall behind her.

Sound the alarm. We’re under attack! Protect the Queen, Serin called out as she drew her sword and ran back into the castle. A horn sounded, alerting the palace to the threat as screaming filled the night air. Rebels—men and women—dressed in all black stormed the castle, lighting everything on fire as they passed through with torches. Civilians within the palace walls attempted to fight but dropped like flies as the rebels cut through them without much effort.

Serin and some of the Asuri rushed the rebels, who made it to the second floor. They made quick work of the archers, killing them before they could fire off any more arrows. Serin ran her sword through one of the men before being swarmed by multiple rebels.

Serin, an Asuri with short, dark hair called out from amidst a group of rebels. Her concern was unwarranted as Serin fought her way out of the chaos and regrouped with the Asuri while the rebels surrounded them. There are too many of them.

We can take them, Maris. Has the queen made it out yet? Serin asked no one in particular.

I don’t know, but you need to get out of here now, one of the Asuri commanded.

Serin shook her head. Not until we finish this.

The Asuri warrior who commanded her to leave glared in response, but Serin stood her ground. While she might be an Asuri by choice, Serin was also a princess who took commands from no one. Whatever you say, another one of the older Asuri acquiesced.

The rebels finally ran at them, but the Asuri slaughtered them without effort. They sliced and cut through the men and women on the second floor since the rebels attacked with no coordination and proceeded to do the same as they reached the first floor. Soon, no one was left standing but Serin and the queen’s Asuri.

Serin sheathed her sword and opened her mouth to speak but stopped as more Asuri joined them sans Queen Lira. Where is the queen? Where is my mother? Serin snapped.

They’ve got her, one of the Asuri responded. They knew where we would take her in case of an attack. They were waiting and ambushed us. While we were fighting, they grabbed Queen Lira and slipped away.

Serin cursed. We’re compromised. The Asuri nodded in agreement. Someone in this palace has betrayed us. Until we catch the traitor, we’re closing ranks.

What are our orders?

Serin shook her head and looked around her to ensure no one was eavesdropping. Not here, but you’ll leave tonight. Once you are somewhere secure, send word to Maris since she is staying behind to oversee things here, and she’ll give you your orders.

Maris, the only Asuri with short dark hair, stepped forward. And where are you going? With Queen Lira gone, rulership falls to you, and you can’t just abandon the kingdom.

I will do whatever is necessary to find the queen, even if that means leaving you all behind. Serin took a deep breath and sighed. Look, I’m not abandoning you guys or the people. We can’t do this by ourselves anymore. The kingdom is no longer safe, and we need help if we’re going to beat back the rebellion.

Where are you going to find help, Serin?

Serin shrugged. I don’t know yet, but I will. She looked around at the frowning thirty or so Asuri standing before her. It’s not ideal, but someone needs to do this.

We understand that, but we don’t get why you must do it. Why can’t one of us go? We’re expendable, and you’re not.

Serin lifted her hand, silencing Maris. Don’t ever say that again. None of you are expendable, which is why I am going. Plus, you know I’ve never really been one to follow the rules, so I can’t sit back and do nothing like a good little princess. I’m going to get the queen back.

Maris shook her head, and some of the Asuri frowned. No.

I wasn’t asking permission.

Maris sighed. If you must go, be careful, Serin. You have the most to lose and gain here.

Serin nodded briskly. Stay hidden when you leave. I’ll send word to Maris when I’m ready to meet up with you guys. The Asuri nodded, and then they each stepped forward to hug Serin. Be safe. May your feet be swift and carry you to safe waters.

And may your eyes be sharp and lead you to which you seek.

Maris softly smiled as she approached Serin. May your sword be as sharp as your tongue and aid you in times of trouble. Maris embraced Serin.

Next time you see me, I’ll have both the queen and help, Serin whispered in her ear. Until then, prepare for war. Lead the Asuri as you see fit, find the traitor, and deal with them accordingly.

Maris released her hold on Serin as she nodded.  Moving away, she joined the rest of the Asuri. Serin took a final look around the room before settling her gaze on the Asuri. With a final nod, she left without another word, disappearing into the night.

Chapter 1

Things were eerily quiet in the Chosen Realm, or so it seemed. With the war against King Shaul’s men finally over and the death of Cameron, Dr. Wyler’s daughter, still lingering, a sense of gloom hung in the air. The melancholy was louder than silence, but no one noticed as they took in the strangers sitting in front of them. Raynin paced back in forth in Dr. Wyler’s living room as she eyed the two teens, who had just come out of the portal, which had since disappeared. Creating new portals was unheard of and impossible, yet the two newcomers proved it wasn’t. Everyone remained silent as they watched Raynin. She finally stopped in front of the teens and narrowed her eyes. I won’t ask you again. Who are you, and what are you doing here?

The girl glanced behind Raynin to look at Riley before turning her attention back to Raynin. I’m Itiya, and his name is Kaden. We’re from the future, she added casually.

Joseph choked on air from where he stood off to the side. Colin patted him on his back as Dr. Wyler stroked his chin and observed the scene before him. Raynin scoffed, rolling her eyes as Riley came and stood next to her. That’s impossible. There are no portals that can transport people into the past or future. Hell, creating portals is supposed to be impossible, too, Riley said.

It’s not, and that’s partially true, Itiya said. Like you and Raynin, she began, stuttering over the use of Raynin’s name, I have powers, and I can create portals that allow me to travel into the past or future.

Riley’s eyebrows shot up, and Raynin looked over at Dr. Wyler, who shrugged. Even if that were true, and I’m not saying it is, it doesn’t explain why you are here, Raynin said, turning back to Itiya and Kaden.

To help you. My parents sent me here to guide you on this quest.

And who are your parents? Raynin asked.

Kaden kicked Itiya’s chair and shook his head in warning as she started to speak. I can’t say, Itiya said after a moment of hesitation.

Raynin’s eyes narrowed as she opened her mouth to respond, but Riley pulled her off to the side, stopping whatever she was about to say. Maybe we should listen to what they have to say if they can help us, he whispered. Raynin scowled, but he ignored her and continued. Let’s not jump to any conclusions just yet.

Fine.

As they turned back around, Raynin started to speak, but Kaden cut her off. Look, all you need to know is that we’re not here to harm you. If we were, we would have taken you out as we came in through the portal.

Okay, Joseph said mockingly before he walked over and joined Raynin and Riley. Raynin would have killed you instantly had you made one threatening move.

I don’t doubt that, but we were sent to help, not kill you. Kaden folded his arms across his chest and glared. If you don’t want our help, we can always return home. But good luck finding the next two pieces of the Crown of Amiriel.

Raynin’s eyes turned red as she took two menacing steps toward Kaden and bent down so that they were face to face. And what do you know of my crown?

Riley placed his hand on Raynin’s shoulder and shook his head when she turned to look at him. Her eyes returned to their dark brown color as she stepped away from him. Riley frowned at Kaden. You’re not helping yourself, he said. Why should we trust you? So far, you’ve given us no real reason to.

They told us you would say that. Itiya reached into her travel sack and took out a necklace. They also said this would prove we weren’t a threat. She held up the Half Moons of Naphtali.

My necklace. Raynin touched the Half Moons of Naphtali necklace resting around her neck. How’d you get that?

It was a gift, and that’s all I can say. Telling you about the future is dangerous to my and Kaden’s existence.

Dr. Wyler walked over to them. Never in my years have I thought this possible, but I believe you. He circled the two teens. I’m curious, however. What year is it where you’ve come from?

It’s the year 5,548.

So, 23 years from now. And how old are you? Dr. Wyler asked after a moment.

We just turned 17 two days ago.

And before you ask, we are not related, and we just happened to be born on the same day at the same time, Kaden added.

And I presume that wasn’t a coincidence, Dr. Wyler stated rather than asked.

Kaden and Itiya agreed with a nod. Dr. Wyler looked at Raynin and Riley with an unusual smile before turning back to look at Itiya. So, your parents. Do they have powers similar to yours? Itiya remained expressionless, so he elaborated. I assume you have more abilities than opening portals and time jumping.

Itiya nodded. They have powers, she responded vaguely while fidgeting.

Dr. Wyler smirked. Interesting. And what about you? Any powers? he asked Kaden.

Kaden’s body turned solid and metallic as he took on a shiny silver color. He let the group observe him before turning back to normal. That answer your question, doc?

Dr. Wyler looked at Colin and then shifted his attention back to Kaden. So, one or both of your parents are density shifters?

Why does any of that matter? Kaden asked, avoiding the question. Itiya touched his shoulder, and some tension eased from his body. Kaden shot Itiya a small smile.

It doesn’t. What do you guys want to do with them? Dr. Wyler addressed Raynin and Riley. They’re not a threat. I don’t believe they mean any of you harm, but if you don’t want their help, we need to send them back so you can be on your way. We’ve wasted enough time here already.

Raynin groaned. Though it pains me to say this, I agree with you, Raynin said. Everyone looked at her in surprise, with mouths hanging open or raised eyebrows. What? I’m not completely unreasonable. Besides, what they’ve said so far sounds plausible. Plus, why would she have my necklace if they were a threat? No one answered her, so she rolled her eyes and continued. Do any of you have any objections?

Riley and Colin shook their heads as Joseph raised his hand. Raynin’s eyes narrowed at him. Seriously? You can’t ask if we have any objections and then get mad when one of us does. Riley and Colin laughed while Dr. Wyler shook his head in amusement. Joseph gestured to Kaden. All I was going to say is that if we’re all going to be stuck together, Kaden’s attitude needs to be left behind. As you can see, we already have a teen with an attitude problem and don’t need another.

Itiya hid her smile with a fake yawn as the others snickered at Joseph’s comment. It’s not too late to leave you behind with Strykes, so remember that the next time you start to open your mouth, Raynin commented.

That threat won’t work forever, Joseph quipped.

Raynin smirked as she shrugged. True, but it’s effective now, so I don’t care. Raynin turned her attention back to Kaden and Itiya. So, you said you have some information. Let’s hear it.

Not so fast, Kaden said, shaking his head. How do we know you’re not gonna just take off without us once we give you this information?

You don’t. I guess you’re going to have to trust me.

That goes both ways, Kaden challenged Raynin.

Are you always this difficult?

Kaden shrugged. I don’t know. Ask Itiya.

Raynin arched an eyebrow as she turned and looked at Itiya expectantly. Of course. I’d say he was the most difficult person I know, but then again, he’s met his match in you.

Raynin laughed, followed by everyone else in the room, easing the tension created by her and Kaden. We’ll get along just fine then, she said with a wink.

How about this, Riley began, bringing the focus to him. We’ll tell you what we know of the next two pieces as a show of trust and go from there.

Kaden looked at Itiya for an answer since she seemed to be in charge. After watching Riley for any signs of deception, Itiya nodded in acceptance.

Good. Now, come here. Raynin picked up her travel sack and took out the maps. Everyone crowded around the coffee table as they knelt. According to this map of Kalar, the second piece is here in this area. Is that still true, or should we be looking elsewhere?

Kaden and Itiya examined the map of Kalar. There’s a kingdom here in the south. Itiya pointed to a wooded area. Darum, she added.

We’ve heard of it. Most of their warriors are female, if I remember correctly.

Yes, the Asuri. They are the queen’s guard and the guardians of the kingdom.

Some job they’re doing, considering their kingdom is on the cusp of a civil war, Colin retorted.

They have no control over that, nor are they responsible for it, Dr. Wyler interjected. Rebels who want reform are the cause of this impending war. Queen Lira is a great ruler, and most of her people would agree, he said, defending the queen of Darum.

Colin held up his hands in a placating manner. No need to get defensive, Dr. Wyler. I’m just saying that maybe war could have been avoided if they had done more to squash the rebellion or something before it got to this point.

And how do you suppose they should have done that? Dr. Wyler snapped.

It doesn’t matter, Raynin cut in, interrupting Dr. Wyler and Colin’s argument. Why is this information important? Raynin addressed Kaden and Itiya.

Because Queen Lira possesses the next two pieces of the Crown, Itiya stated.

Raynin stood up. Well, what are we waiting for? Let’s go and get them.

Not so fast. There’s more, Kaden waited for Raynin to sit back down before explaining. Rebels kidnaped Queen Lira over two months ago.

Dr. Wyler looked up from observing the map with wide eyes. And Serin?

Who’s Serin? Joseph asked.

Her daughter and a member of the Asuri, Kaden answered with a subtle glance at Colin before focusing back on Dr. Wyler. She’s been missing since Queen Lira’s kidnapping.

Raynin let out a frustrated breath. So, you’re saying that the Asuri is without proper leadership and the pieces of the Crown are essentially lost, Riley finally spoke.

Yes, but they’re still in the kingdom.

Riley scrubbed his face and exhaled. Looking up, he turned to Raynin with furrowed eyebrows. Are you sure this is what you want? Raynin tilted her head in confusion, so he continued. Finding the pieces of the Crown. Are you sure that’s what you want to do?

The rest of the group started to protest, but Dr. Wyler spoke over the chaos. "She doesn’t have a