CHAPTER SIX: AMARI

Amari, escorted by Zélie and Tzain, enters a seaside dome where a vast crowd awaits. Inspired by memories of her father’s command, she mounts a stage erected by Roën’s crew and opens by naming herself daughter of the fallen king and sister to the late crown prince. A young kosidán’s bow triggers a wave of kneeling, giving Amari the resolve to press on.

Amari recounts Binta’s murder at the palace, framing it as emblematic of Orïsha’s persecution of divîners and maji. Tension simmers as maji and soldiers edge toward conflict, but Amari refuses to soften the truth, calling for an end to division. She spots an Iyika rebel with a scar and senses opposition to her claim.

Choosing transparency over fear, Amari removes her helmet and reveals her white streak, declaring herself a tîtán. The revelation nearly ignites unrest, but Amari seizes the moment to argue that magic and tîtán gifts can feed, heal, and build the nation. Her vision reframes power as a collective blessing, aimed at protecting and uplifting all Orïshans.

The crowd is won by the promise of unity and prosperity, erupting into chants of “Long live the Queen,” which Zélie translates. Amari feels her claim coalescing as the dome vibrates with support, and Roën’s mercenaries hold a defensive ring while order returns.

Suddenly a commanding voice silences the hall. Metal boots crunch through sand as a hooded figure enters. Amari prepares to fight until the intruder is revealed as Queen Nehanda. Stunned joy turns to dread when Nehanda’s hateful stare and denunciation cut through the moment, halting Amari’s ascendancy and setting up a direct confrontation.