23. A Stroll on the Beach

Cassie pleads with Reis for time in private, and he acquiesces.  To avoid the prying eyes of the Storm King, Reis summons a hopper to carry them away from Takanga Ha’i.

The high king and queen alight on the deserted beach of a far-flung island dominated by a volcano.  Shedding their shoes, Cassie and Reis stroll along the shore.

Reis describes his pursuit of longevity and the accumulation of power.  He reflects on his relationship with Gideon, whom he characterizes as self-interested. Cassie admits to placing her trust in Gideon.  Prompted by Cassie, Reis demonstrates his power of invisibility and highlights its limitations.

Cassie expresses her desire for love, and Reis emphasizes his affection.  The couple kiss as the waves break on the shoreline.

Ruminating on the hoards of dragons, Reis explains his process for creating and selling gold bars.  For a time, Reis and Cassie walk in silence, hand-in-hand.  

Cassie wonders whether the island had once been populated.  Reis points out manmade structures built at the edge of the jungle. 

Reis acknowledges sending Pat to gather intelligence on the Squid God.  Recalling the spy’s burial, he is surprised to learn that Cassie spoke with the dead woman.  

Cassie asks whether Reis intends to honor his word to Kanoa and refrain from retaliating against the Storm King.  Reis equivocates, citing his plan to drop gold into the sunken city and pit the government against the Squid God.