Legacy of Orïsha, #1
Children of Blood and Bone
by Tomi Adeyemi
Contents
Chapter Seventy-Seven: Zélie
Overview
At dawn, Zélie, Roën, Amari, and their allies finalize a stealth plan to infiltrate the island temple in stolen armor and create a diversion for Zélie’s ritual. Though Zélie still lacks her magic, the island’s emergence rekindles her hope. She delivers a rallying speech and commits to fight if the plan fails.
Summary
Before sunrise, Zélie dons stolen naval armor as Roën gathers the crew. Roën outlines the plan: approach the island disguised as soldiers, dock without drawing attention, then stage a distant assault near the temple to divert royal forces so Zélie can attempt the ritual.
Amari voices concern that King Saran’s soldiers will shoot at any disturbance. Roën’s diversion is meant to pull guards away, preserving their element of surprise. Zélie, still doubting her lost magic, fears the gods have abandoned her and that the plan could collapse.
As the sun rises, the hidden island resolves from mirage to a fog-shrouded mass, and a warmth of hope stirs in Zélie, suggesting magic is near. Emboldened, she addresses the group, reminding them of the monarchy’s wrongs and declaring they fight for all who’ve suffered.
The crew’s shouts strengthen Zélie’s resolve. When Roën asks what to do if everything falls apart, Zélie answers simply: “Strike.” The group prepares to proceed, ready to fight with everything they have.
Who Appears
- ZélieProtagonist; doubts her lost magic but regains hope, delivers a rousing speech, and commits to fight if needed.
- RoënMercenary leader; coordinates the infiltration plan and diversion, keeps morale high, and prompts contingency planning.
- AmariAllied princess; challenges the plan’s risks, ensuring the diversion covers the temple approach.
- TzainZélie’s brother; offers support and joins the crew preparing for the island assault.
- KenyonMercenary; arrives with his team to support the infiltration and diversion strategy.