Legacy of Orïsha, #2
Children of Virtue and Vengeance
by Tomi Adeyemi
Contents
CHAPTER ELEVEN: AMARI
Overview
In the forest aftermath, Amari pledges to stop Queen Nehanda—killing her if necessary—and claim the throne. Zélie rejects further war and argues to flee Orïsha, igniting a bitter clash that lays bare old wounds. The dispute fractures the group as Zélie rides away, leaving Amari and Tzain uncertain.
Summary
In the quiet after Roën departs, Amari, Tzain, and Zélie reel from Nehanda’s attack. Amari resolves to find a way to counter Queen Nehanda, pay Roën, and protect Orïsha, despite uncertainty. Seeking to reassure Zélie, Amari argues that even great power has a weakness.
Pressed by the stakes, Amari vows to remove Nehanda and ascend the throne if Nehanda will not yield. Zélie rejects the plan, insisting the fight is lost now that the monarchy wields stronger magic, and urges them to leave Orïsha. Amari refuses, claiming duty as queen to defend the kingdom. The debate hardens into an impasse.
Old grievances erupt. Zélie accuses Amari’s family of causing her parents’ deaths and her suffering; Amari counters with her own scars and the sacrifices she made, including killing her father to protect the maji. Their pain escalates, widening the rift between them.
When Zélie questions Tzain’s loyalties, he tries to calm her but falters under her accusation that he favored Amari during the attack. Hurt and furious, Zélie mounts Nailah and rides into the forest, leaving Tzain and Amari behind. Tzain insists she will return, but both are left shaken and divided.
Who Appears
- AmariDetermined to counter Nehanda; vows to kill her if necessary and claim the throne.
- ZélieTraumatized by Nehanda’s power; rejects further war and rides off after a bitter argument.
- TzainTries to mediate between Amari and Zélie but fails as tensions explode.
- NehandaAntagonistic queen and Amari’s mother; her devastating power drives the conflict.
- RoënAbsent mercenary whose threats and unpaid debt add pressure to the group.
- NailahZélie’s ryder; carries her away, physically splitting the group.