Chapter 74

King Arthur and Queen Mera listen intently as Hila recounts her harrowing ordeal. She describes the attack on the submarine, the ambush by the mysterious black-armored assailants, and her desperate flight to the surface, where Haruka had come to her aid.

"These black-armored men, they were relentless in their pursuit," Hila says, her brow furrowed. "I was barely able to escape with my life, thanks to the assistance of this... Kamen Rider."

Arthur's expression grows grave as he processes the information. "Someone is clearly targeting you, Princess Hila. This is a grave concern, not only for your safety but for the security of Atlantis as well."

Mera nods in agreement, her regal features etched with worry. "We must take steps to ensure your protection and investigate the source of this threat. The integrity of our kingdom is at stake."

The king turns to Haruka, who stands silently beside Hila. "You have our gratitude for aiding the princess. Your actions have not gone unnoticed." Arthur pauses, considering his next words carefully. "I believe it would be wise for you to remain in Atlantis, at least for the time being, until we can determine the nature of this threat."

Haruka nods solemnly, understanding the gravity of the situation. As Hila and the Atlantean royals discuss the necessary security measures, he contemplates the challenges that lie ahead, both for Atlantis and for his own mission.

The ornate doors to the throne room swing open, and a tall, broad-shouldered man with golden hair strides in. His sharp features soften as his gaze lands on Hila, a relieved smile spreading across his face.

"Sister!" Orm exclaims, crossing the distance between them in a few long steps. He grasps Hila's hands, his brow creased with concern. "I'm so glad to see you're unharmed. When I heard the news of the attack, I feared the worst."

Haruka watches the exchange, his keen eyes studying the newcomer. Though he does not recognize this man, the way the Atlantean royals address him leaves little doubt - this must be Prince Orm, Hila's brother-in-law. Haruka mentally notes the prince's presence, aware that he may very well be one of the key figures suspected of orchestrating the assault on Hila.

As Orm fusses over his sister-in-law, Haruka remains silent, his expression unreadable. The prince's arrival has only added another layer of complexity to the already precarious situation facing Atlantis.

Hila greets Orm, her brother-in-law, with a warm embrace. "Brother, I'm so relieved to see you," she says, her voice tinged with gratitude. Orm returns the gesture, his brow creased with concern.

As they pull apart, another figure enters the throne room – Queen Atlanna, Aquaman's mother. Her eyes light up with joy upon seeing Hila. "My dear niece, you're safe!" she exclaims, sweeping Hila into a motherly hug.

Hila smiles and turns to Haruka, gesturing towards the royal family. "Kamen Rider, allow me to introduce Prince Orm and Queen Atlanna."

Haruka nods at Orm, his movements measured and polite. But as their eyes meet, a flicker of anger dances across the prince's features, there and gone in an instant. Orm quickly schools his expression, his face settling into a more neutral mask. Haruka doesn't miss the brief display of emotion, filing it away as he continues to study the Atlantean royal.

Atlanna steps forward, placing a hand on Haruka's armored shoulder. "Kamen Rider, we owe you a debt of gratitude for protecting our dear Hila. Your bravery and quick thinking have not gone unnoticed."

Orm nods in agreement, his tone cordial. "Yes, Kamen Rider, your actions have been most commendable. Atlantis is in your debt." The prince's words, while polite, carry a subtle undertone that sets Haruka on edge.

Haruka remains cautious, sensing a hidden agenda beneath Orm's seemingly grateful demeanor. He responds with a measured tone, "I am merely glad I could be of assistance, Your Highness. The safety of Princess Hila is of utmost importance."

King Arthur turns to Haruka, his expression softening. "You must be weary from your journey. Please, allow my servants to show you to your quarters, where you can rest and recover."

The king gestures to a pair of Atlantean attendants, who approach Haruka with a deferential bow. "If you'll follow us, Kamen Rider, we've prepared a room for your comfort."

Haruka nods gratefully. "I appreciate your hospitality, Your Majesty." He glances at Hila, who steps forward to guide him.

"Come, Rider," Hila says, her tone warm. "I'll take you to your chambers."

As Hila and Haruka leave, Orm turns to Arthur, his brow furrowed. "Brother, is it truly wise to allow this... Kamen Rider to remain in the palace? He could be a spy, sent to gather information about Atlantis."

Arthur regards his brother with a stern expression. "Orm, the Kamen Rider has proven himself a valuable ally. He risked his own safety to protect Hila, and for that, he has earned our gratitude and respect."

Mera, standing beside the king, nods in agreement. "Orm, you are being ridiculous. Kamen Rider could not be a spy. Have you not seen the way Hila speaks of him?" Her gaze drifts to the retreating figures of Hila and Haruka, a hint of a knowing smile on her lips.

Orm's jaw tightens, his eyes narrowing. "I simply believe we should exercise caution, Brother. Atlantis cannot afford any more threats to our security."

Arthur raises a hand, silencing his Orm. "Kamen Rider is our guest, Orm. He will be treated with the utmost respect during his stay." The king's tone leaves no room for argument.

Disgruntled, Orm casts one last glance towards the door before turning and striding out of the throne room, his frustration evident in every step.

…

Hila leads Haruka through the ornate corridors of the Atlantean palace, the bioluminescent algae casting a soft glow along the walls. As they walk, Haruka takes in the breathtaking sights, his mind racing with the events that have brought him here.

The princess pauses before a set of ornate doors, gesturing for Haruka to enter. "Here we are. I hope you find the accommodations to your liking."

Haruka steps inside the spacious room, his gaze sweeping over the elegant furnishings and the stunning view of the underwater city beyond the window. "This is more than I could have expected," he murmurs, turning to Hila.

Haruka looks around the room, taking in the opulent furnishings and the stunning view of Atlantis beyond the window. He turns to Hila, a question in his eyes. "Is there some way for me to release the water? I'm afraid I won't be able to breathe in here."

Hila nods in understanding. "Of course, let me assist you." She steps over to the side of the room and presses a button on the wall. Immediately, the water begins to drain from the chamber, revealing a dry, air-filled space.

Haruka takes a deep breath, relieved to be able to move freely without the constraint of the water. "That's convenient."

Hila gestures towards the door, a hint of excitement in her voice. "Since you've never been to Atlantis before, would you like me to show you around?"

Haruka nods, grateful for the opportunity to explore the wondrous underwater city. "I would be honored, Princess Hila."

As they step out into the corridor, Haruka glances around, his keen eyes scanning for any potential threats. With a subtle flick of his wrist, he deploys a small, octopus-like robot, a Takocandroid, to accompany them.

"Keep an eye on Prince Orm," Haruka murmurs, his voice low. "Report back to me if you notice anything suspicious."

The Takocandroid chirps in acknowledgment, its tentacles grasping onto the wall as it scuttles away, blending seamlessly into the ornate surroundings. Haruka watches it go, his expression unreadable, before turning his attention back to Hila.

///

Give Power Stones so I can continue to write this story. If it does not gain any interest, I will drop it.

Advance chapters on my P@tE0N Najicablitz, which is also the best way to support me.