Legacy of Orïsha, #1
Children of Blood and Bone
by Tomi Adeyemi
Contents
Chapter Fifty-Nine: Zélie
Overview
Inan urges Zélie to return to Lagos, proposing crown-backed training colonies to reintroduce safe magic and win the king’s acceptance. After wrestling with fear and hope, Zélie agrees with conditions, envisioning peace and reconstruction. They commit to a joint path—and to each other—cemented by an intimate kiss.
Summary
Alone after the festival, Zélie struggles against her desire for Inan, fearing Tzain’s reaction. Inan interrupts their passion with a proposal: return to Lagos and build crown-supported training colonies so magic can reenter Orïsha safely, convincing the monarchy that today’s maji are not a threat.
Zélie challenges the plan, citing the king’s hostility and the danger of congregating maji. Inan counters that restored magic will limit the king’s power and that he and Amari can guide a peaceful transition if Zélie stands with them. The vision of healers curing illness and artisans rebuilding stirs Zélie’s hope, though guilt over Tzain’s injury tempers her.
Recalling Inan’s progress with control, Zélie begins to imagine an Orïsha without war. She tests his resolve with conditions: her family must come, Ilorin must be rebuilt, and they must persuade Tzain and Amari. Inan agrees enthusiastically, promising resources and support once magic returns.
Choosing hope over fear, Zélie accepts the plan to go to Lagos. Their commitment shifts from strategy to intimacy as they kiss, affirming a personal and political partnership that could redefine Orïsha—if they can survive the opposition it will provoke.
Who Appears
- ZélieWeighs fear of renewed violence against Inan’s vision, agrees to go to Lagos with conditions, and commits to their partnership.
- Prince InanProposes crown-backed training colonies, pledges to guide a peaceful transition with Amari, and solidifies a romantic-political alliance with Zélie.