Morning broke over the horizon, casting a warm golden glow upon the land. A tree stood tall and proud, its leaves shimmering with an otherworldly green light. Dweller City, nestled nearby in the residential area, seemed to come alive, as if the magic of the tree infused every corner of the city.
Tyson and Jeremy emerged from the depths of Dweller City, their footsteps resonating with purpose. Jeremy, burdened with a large bag adorned with the word “Lego,” held it close, a sense of importance radiating from his every move. Tyson, walking steadfastly beside him, fixed a piercing gaze on his companion.
Suddenly, Tyson's voice broke the serenity, cutting through the air with a mix of concern and scrutiny. “What are your intentions with my niece?” he asked, catching Jeremy off guard. The young man stumbled for a moment, the weight of the question sinking in.
Jeremy's response, filled with heartfelt sincerity, hung in the air like a delicate strand of woven magic. “She is my friend,” he said, his voice laced with conviction. “I would never dishonor her in any way.”
Tyson leaned in, his eyes probing Jeremy's soul. In that moment, it became clear that he sought more than a simple answer. “I realize that,” Tyson continued, his voice softer now, yet still tinged with a hint of apprehension. “But where do you see you and her progressing together years from now?”
Caught in the undertow of uncertainty, Jeremy fumbled for words. “I don't know,” he admitted, his voice filled with genuine confusion. “I just... I haven't thought that far ahead.”
Tyson, a wise and introspective individual, turned to Jeremy with a concerned gaze. “You should know, Agneyastra grows older with each passing day. Sooner or later, she will have to make a decision about marriage. And it won't be easy for her, having so many men vying for her attention, that have no plans on marring her.”
Jeremy, lost in his thoughts, replied earnestly, “I just want to be whatever she wants me to be.”
Tyson's eyes bore into Jeremy's, filled with a mix of protectiveness and guidance. “I want Agneyastra to have the freedom to choose in her life. But if you don't truly see her in a romantic way, you might inadvertently be wasting her precious time. She may have to be guided back onto the path that was originally chosen for her.”
A heavy silence settled between them as Jeremy tried to comprehend the weight of Tyson's words. Finally, he spoke again, his voice tinged with resignation. “I'm not allowed to see her anymore.”
Tyson's expression softened, his words laced with a heartfelt honesty. “I would never impose such a restriction, for it would only bring about catastrophic consequences. Agneyastra would resent me, and I cannot bear to see her suffer. I'm merely suggesting that you make your intentions known, before she starts to see you as more than just a friend. Alternatively, perhaps it would be best for you to slowly fade out of her life altogether.”
With a furrowed brow, Jeremy broke the silence. “Did I do something to offend Agneyastra or you? I'm sorry,” he questioned, his voice laced with genuine concern.
Tyson took a moment to gather his thoughts before answering. “No, Jeremy,” he replied with a gentle tone. “You are an honorable man, and Agneyastra knows that. But if you do not harbor romantic feelings for her, it is important not to hinder her in finding someone who does. She already carries the weight of many expectations and responsibilities on her shoulders. As she ascends to become the future ruler of the Fire Kingdom, she will need a partner who can offer love and unwavering support in the face of life's challenges.”
Jeremy's face fell, his once joyful countenance now clouded with regret. Understanding the weight of Tyson's words, he nodded slowly. “I understand,” Jeremy murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.
With that, Jeremy fell into silence as he continued to walk beside Tyson down the residential streets of Dweller City. The familiar surroundings now seemed unfamiliar, a reflection of the turmoil in Jeremy's heart. Tyson, ever observant, watched as Jeremy's once radiant smile faded into a solemn frown.
Morning sunlight streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow on the scene unfolding in the dining room Agneyastra sat at the head of the table, her eyes alight with excitement as she devoured her breakfast with lightning speed. Her vibrant energy filled the room, causing Marudeva to interject with a concerned plea.
“Agney, slow down,” Marudeva warned, worry etched in her voice. “You don't want to choke.”
Agneyastra grinned mischievously, her mouth still full of food, but she managed to reply, “Don't worry, Marudeva. I'm too excited to slow down.”
Around the table, Sinai and Emathion exchanged amused glances, their own breakfasts momentarily forgotten. Agneyastra's contagious enthusiasm could not be ignored. Her anticipation was palpable, radiating from her like a tangible force.
“I can't believe Jeremy is going to be here soon,” Agneyastra declared, a sparkle in her eyes. The mere mention of his name sent a shiver of excitement down her spine. Thoughts of seeing him once more filled her mind, distracting her from the meal before her.
Emathion, always calm and composed, offered a gentle reminder. “Agneyastra, finish your breakfast safely. We can wait for him to arrive outside. I have plans to journey to the Earth Kingdom and cheer up Moriko.”
Agneyastra and Emathion finish their breakfast with their family. They step outside, their chairs creaking beneath their weight, and settle down, anticipation gleaming in their eyes. They eagerly await the arrival of Jeremy, their friend and reliable companion.
As they engage in lighthearted conversation, their voices mingling with the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze, a small figure catches Agneyastra's attention. Pointing towards the dog, a sense of curiosity fills her words as she says, “Emathion, look.”
Emathion rises, his expression matching Agneyastra's intrigue, and together they approach the dog. Agneyastra reaches out, her hand trembling slightly, to gently stroke the dog's fur. Emathion kneels down, his movements calm and deliberate, eager to join in the affectionate gesture. But a sudden shift in the dog's demeanor sends shockwaves through the tranquil scene.
With a flash of aggression, the dog lunges at Emathion's outstretched hand, its sharp teeth seeking to inflict pain. In an instant, Agneyastra, fueled by her protective instincts, steps in to shield him. She is not quick enough to prevent the dog from biting her, its sharp teeth sinking into her tender flesh.
As the dog retreats hastily, its mission seemingly accomplished, Tyson and Jeremy approach, concern etched upon their faces. Their eyes follow the dog's disappearing form, their hearts heavy with worry for Agneyastra. They rush to her side, a whirlwind of panic and care.
Emathion’s voice steady and confident, he suggests, “Let's go inside. I will have the hospital summon a nurse with supplies.” Acting as their guiding presence, Tyson and Emathion diligently escort Agneyastra into the comforting embrace of the house.
As Tyson and Emathion turn towards a hallway, their footsteps echoing through the corridor, Agneyastra and Jeremy find relief in the living room. Sitting on the soft, welcoming couch, a temporary refuge, Jeremy gently urges, “Let's sit down for a moment.” Exhausted and in need of comfort, Agneyastra leans her head upon Jeremy's shoulder.
***
Midday Ramil emerged from his bedroom, the golden sunlight pouring through the windows casting a warm glow upon his tousled hair. He took a moment to gaze at the woman nestled in his bed. Stepping into the hallway, Ramil descended the grand staircase, his footsteps echoing through the house. The crisp air whispered promises of adventure as he stepped out into the world beyond his doorstep. His horse, crafted from ash awaited his arrival.
Bounding onto the majestic creature, Ramil urged it forward, their synchronized movements embodying a dance of freedom and determination. The wind carried their eager spirit towards Dweller City, a bustling metropolis teeming with life and opportunity.
As Ramil approached the Dweller Warrior Training building, his gaze was momentarily captivated by a tender scene. Sandra stood locked in a passionate embrace with Jake. Ramil watched as Jake mounted his horse and rode off. Ramil dismounted his horse and strode purposefully towards the building's entrance. The air bristled with the energy of aspiring warriors engaged in rigorous training.
His gaze settling upon Aurgelmir, Ramil approached with a touch of trepidation. Aurgelmir stood at the edge of the training ground, his watchful eyes scanning the new recruits and his weathered hands clenching the hilt of a sword. Coming to a halt beside Aurgelmir, Ramil cleared his throat before summoning the courage to speak. “Forgive my boldness, Aurgelmir, but I cannot help but wonder why I was not chosen to guard the Green Forest alongside Jake,” Ramil inquired.
Aurgelmir, looked up from his desk and regarded Ramil with a grave expression. “We need you down here,” he began, his voice laced with urgency. “This war might start up again, and my duties have multiplied. Besides, my son's wedding is approaching, and the preparations are demanding and expensive.”
Ramil sighed, fatigue etched into the lines on his face. “I grow weary, Aurgelmir,” he confessed. “The war has stalled, and the battles have become few and far between. I long for a purpose once more.”
Aurgelmir's gaze softened, empathy gleaming in his eyes. “The war has left many widows in its wake,” he said gently. “Consider visiting them, as you did the compassionate pastry maker.”
Ramil's frustration surged, his voice tinged with bitterness. “Why does everybody feel the need to comment on my personal life?” he lamented, anger simmering just below the surface.
Aurgelmir leaned back in his chair, his weathered hands clasped together. “When your indiscretions become a spectacle in a busy marketplace, Ramil, it becomes the business of those around you,” he explained.
Ramil's eyes wandered towards the training grounds, where eager recruits sparred under Aurgelmir's watchful eye. Seeking refuge from his own tumultuous emotions, he turned back to his commander. “Can I help with training, Aurgelmir?”
The Dweller Warrior burst into the office, her armor clanking loudly with each hurried step. She stopped abruptly in front of Aurgelmir, her eyes filled with urgency. “General Aurgelmir,” she gasped, her voice strained. “A nurse from the hospital was summoned to Marudeva's house, about an hour ago.”
Ramil’s face contorted with worry and determination as he addressed the warrior. “Devereaux, came to harm my brother. I have to go.”
But before Ramil could even finish his sentence, the Dweller Warrior interrupted him, her voice tense. “No, I believe Agneyastra was attacked...”
Without waiting for more information, Ramil bolted from the office. The heavy wooden door slammed shut behind him as he raced towards his horse waiting patiently just outside. He leaped onto the saddle with practiced precision, the sensation of the familiar leather under his grip filling him with a sense of purpose.
With a swift kick of his heels, Ramil urged his horse forward, the animal's hooves thundering against the dirt road. The wind whipped against his face, carrying with it the scent of urgency and trepidation. Ramil burst through the door of his father's home, his breathing heavy. He leapt off his horse and hurriedly made his way into the house, not noticing the figures following closely behind him. His footsteps thundered up the staircase, the sound echoing through the corridors of the old house.
As he approached Agneyastra's open bedroom door, a sense of urgency gripped Ramil. His eyes widened at the sight before him - Agneyastra, her hand wrapped in a pristine white bandage, and Jeremy, seated together at a small table, engrossed in assembling a vibrant Lego set. The room was bathed in warm, golden light, casting a tranquil and inviting atmosphere.
His heart racing, Ramil unsheathed his sword and pointed it at Jeremy, his voice laden with accusation. “What did you do?” he demanded, his tone sharp and filled with unease. Jeremy, taken aback by Ramil's sudden entrance, raised his hands in a futile attempt to defuse the tension, a faint smile lingering on his lips.
“You're right, he is rather intense,” Jeremy replied, thinking that Ramil was playing a prank. His words, however, served only to intensify the tension in the room.
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Ramil, refusing to be swayed, pressed on. “You need to leave,” he urged, his voice laced with a mixture of concern and determination. But before Jeremy could respond, Agneyastra stepped forward, positioning herself protectively between Ramil and her friend. The movement caught Ramil's attention, and he hesitantly lowered his sword, his eyes flickering with uncertainty.
“He didn't…” Agneyastra began, her words trailing off as she struggled to find the right words to ease Ramil's fears.
Before she could continue, Ramil interrupted her, his voice unsteady with emotion. “He's only going to hurt you, like Marius did,” he blurted out, the remnants of his fear and anguish seeping into his words.
Jeremy, now standing up from his seat, met Ramil's gaze directly. The fierce determination in his eyes spoke volumes. “I would never hurt my friend,” he declared, his voice filled with conviction.
Ramil His voice trembled with emotion as he spoke. “A woman who claims to be a friend should not shed tears when the man she claims to care for finds happiness with another. And to offer herself to someone else herself!” Ramil's words were sharp, filled with an unforgiving edge.
Tyson stepped forward, confusion etched across his face. “What are you talking about?” he asked, his gaze shifting between Agneyastra and Ramil.
Jeremy looked at Agneyastra, a perplexed expression painting his features. “I don't understand. Please, explain,” he pleaded.
But Tyson, unable to hold back his thoughts, blurted recklessly, “You only bring her pain! Just like the harm you caused to her hand. This relationship, between you both, it will only lead to heartbreak. I will be the one constant in her life, the one who truly appreciates her. I won't stand by and watch her cry over someone who doesn't see her worth.”
Agneyastra, her hand wrapped in a white bandage, lifted it gently, her voice tinged with weariness. “Jeremy did not harm me. It was a dog that bit my hand,” she explained, her gaze filled with disappointment. “You, on the other hand, have embarrassed me beyond measure. I wish you both a good life. As for me, I would rather retreat into solitude.”
With those words, she turned and retreated into her bathroom, seeking solace in the quiet darkness. Ramil stood stunned, the weight of his actions suddenly crashing down upon him. Regret filled his eyes as he faced Jeremy. “I may have overreacted,” Ramil admitted, his voice laced with remorse. He walked out of the room, leaving Jeremy behind, his thoughts consumed with the consequences of his impulsive words.
***
As Moriko stepped out of her room, a heavy weight seemed to settle upon her shoulders. The morning light illuminated the hallway but could not chase away the darkness that shrouded her thoughts. Yeongi, a kind and wise presence, stood in the hallway, concern etched across her face.
“Are you well, my child?” Yeongi's voice was gentle but filled with genuine worry. Moriko's eyes met hers, a mix of uncertainty and determination reflecting in her gaze.
Together, they walked through the intricate corridors of the Earth Kingdom Palace, each turn leading them deeper into the heart of their journey. The walls seemed to stretch and twist like an elaborate maze, mirroring the complexities of Moriko's own mind.
“I don't know,” Moriko confessed.
Yeongi responded, her voice a balm for Moriko's troubled spirit. “Come, let us go meet the new Dweller Warriors guards who will be entrusted to protect your green forest.”
As they walked side by side, an unspoken bond formed between them. Yeongi's arm settled gently upon Moriko's shoulders, a silent reminder of the strength they found in one another. Moriko couldn't help but be grateful for such a steadfast presence in her life.
“They shouldn't send so many warriors,” Moriko voiced her concerns, her thoughts lingering on the safety of Emathion, her cherished homeland. “It will leave Emathion vulnerable and unprotected.”
In response, Yeongi's voice held a reassuring calm, a steadfastness that seemed to permeate the very air around them. “Emathion will be okay,” she assured Moriko. “I am worried about you. You have been growing colder and more distant lately, my dear.”
As Moriko and Yeongi emerged from the grandiosity of the Earth kingdom castle, they ventured onto the path that led to Stone City. The air was crisp and carried with it a sense of anticipation. Each step they took seemed to echo with the weight of unspoken words.
Moriko, burdened by a heavy secret, kept her thoughts locked away, her face a mask of turmoil. Finally, unable to contain the turmoil any longer, she let out a trembling whisper, “What do you do when you want to help your loved one, to alleviate the pain they endure, only to realize that it was you who inflicted that suffering in the first place?”
Moriko, overcome with a torrent of emotions, hurriedly sought solace in the quiet refuge of a quaint shop in Stone City. Tears welled up in her eyes as she sank into a seat at a small café table outside. Her trembling hands covered her face as silent sobs wracked her body.
Witnessing her anguish, Yeongi approached cautiously and took a seat beside her. With a tender and understanding gaze, she enveloped Moriko in a comforting embrace, providing a safe sanctuary for her to release the floodgates of her agony.
In the midst of Moriko's inconsolable cries, Yeongi spoke softly. “You have always possessed an unwavering compassion and a friendly nature, my dear. It is these very qualities that make you truly endearing to all who know you.”
Moriko's tear-filled eyes met Yeongi's, and she whispered in a broken voice, “If I had only listened to you and Tyson more, if I had taken more caution, this would have never happened to Emathion.”
Yeongi's gentle touch soothed Moriko's trembling shoulders. “Don't let the actions of one individual define your approach towards others,” Yeongi softly advised.
Moriko's sobs grew louder, the weight of her burden threatening to consume her. “I know it's not a permanent solution, but for now, I feel that I must take this path, if only for the sake of safety.”
Standing up, Yeongi extended a hand towards Moriko, encouraging her to rise. With tender determination, she said, “Before you make any final decisions, Moriko, at least speak with him. Offer him a reason, provide him with understanding. It might just help him comprehend the depth of your motivations.”
As the golden rays of the morning sun filtered through the thick canopy of leaves, a Brucie darted through the underbrush towards Moriko, his emerald eyes gleaming with urgency. With a breathless voice, he delivered the news, “Emathion has arrived, accompanied by the new Dweller Warriors.”
Moriko's serene face filled with a mix of anticipation and caution. “Escort Emathion to the cabin,” she commanded, her voice carrying the weight of authority. With determined steps, Moriko navigated the ancient trees, her footsteps blending with the whispers of the forest.
As Moriko approached the warriors, the ancient trees seemed to sway in their presence, providing an unspoken blessing. The warriors formed a protective circle around the forest's perimeter, their eyes sharp and vigilant. Jake, a stoic figure exuding an air of command, stood at the forefront, leading his brethren with unwavering loyalty.
Moriko stepped to the cabin door, her gaze lingering on Yeongi's smiling face before she turned and entered. Inside, Emathion's restless pacing filled the living room. With cautious steps, Moriko approached him from behind, her presence going unnoticed for a moment.
Startled, Emathion turned his body abruptly, nearly colliding with Moriko. His eyes widened in surprise as he took a step back, his voice trembling with concern. “What is wrong? Why was I escorted here?”
Moriko's gaze fell to the floor as she spoke, her tone heavy and laden with sorrow. “I will have your belongings moved to your land,” she said, her words carrying a weight of finality.
Confusion etched on his face, Emathion pleaded, “What have I done?” His voice quivered with a mix of disbelief and desperation.
Moriko's voice wavered, her sadness evident as she uttered her painful decision. “I have banished you,” she admitted, her eyes welling with tears.
Emathion's voice as he whispered, “But I love you, Moriko.”
Moriko tried to steady herself, her voice filled with a mix of resignation and heartache. “Look at what that love has done,” she urged, her words heavy with longing. “You should stop caring about me altogether.”
With a heavy heart, Moriko turned and made her way out of the cabin. Emathion, unable to let her go, tried to follow her, his voice trembling as he called out, “Please don't do this, Moriko.” But he was soon escorted out of the welcoming embrace of the Green Forest, left stranded outside as Moriko disappeared deeper into the trees.
***
Early morning in the Water Kingdom, the room was bathed in a soft glow as the first rays of sunlight filtered through the window. Hushed whispers carried on the gentle breeze, and Marius stirred in his slumber, oblivious to the presence that had entered his chambers. The door creaked open, revealing a figure so ethereal it seemed to have emerged from the depths of a dream.
As if beckoned by some unseen force, Agneyastra glided into the room, her delicate footsteps barely making a sound on the cold stone floor. With the grace of a moonlit goddess, she approached Marius's bedside, her fingers trembling as they traced the contours of his slumbering face.
“Marius,” she whispered, her voice a mellifluous melody that caressed his ear. The sound was like a spell, instantly rousing Marius from his peaceful rest. He blinked his drowsy eyes, astonishment dawning on his face as he perceived Agneyastra's presence.
Panic flickered in Marius's eyes. “You can't be here, I will not allow him to hurt you,” he murmured.
Ever the epitome of grace, Agneyastra slowly withdrew her hand and began to slide off the bed, her “Then, I will leave,” she replied.
Marius his hand instinctively reaching out to seize her wrist before she could fully depart. His touch was tender, his fingertips softly grazing her cheek. “Wait,” he implored, his voice a velvet whisper in the stillness of the room.
Their eyes locked, time seemed to hold its breath as Marius pulled her back towards him, unable to resist the pull of their connection. His touch became bolder, his hands enmeshing themselves in the silken waves of her hair as he traced the contours of her face with his thumb.
Agneyastra surrendered to the intoxication of his touch, her lips finding solace on the nape of his neck. Her voice, barely a sigh, emerged from the depths of her being, “Tell me how you feel.”
Marius's hands, guided by a longing beyond reason, traced a path down her back, his touch leaving tingling trails against her soft skin. “I love you,” he confessed.
Agneyastra's breath hitched, her heart soaring, yet a sliver of uncertainty lingered in the exquisite realm they existed in. “How much do you love me?” she asked.
Marius found himself lost in a passionate embrace with Agneyastra. Their lips danced in a hypnotic rhythm, their bodies intertwined in a fervent tangle of desire. Marius, enveloped in the intoxicating bliss of the moment, responded to Agneyastra's suggestion, his voice filled with longing, “Let's leave together, like you suggested that one day.” Marius and Agneyastra found themselves entangled in a passionate embrace, their lips locked in a fervent kiss. The room was filled with an air of electricity as their bodies intertwined, lost in a moment of carnal desire.
In the midst of their intimate encounter, the door swung open, revealing the unexpected presence of Devereaux. A mischievous smile crept across his face as he called out to his brother, unable to conceal his amusement. “Brother, what in the realms are you doing?”
Startled, Marius quickly pulled away from Agneyastra, scrambling to cover themselves with the bed sheets. His eyes met Devereaux's, a mixture of embarrassment and confusion etched upon his face. And then, to his astonishment, he noticed something peculiar. There, lying on the bed, was a dog.
Marius tried to make sense of the situation, his mind reeling. How had a dog found its way into his room? But as he gazed in disbelief, the dog's form began to shift and transform. Bit by bit, it morphed into the figure of a graceful woman – Alura. She approached Devereaux with a sly smile, while the latter gleefully pointed and laughed at his bewildered brother.
Marius, a mixture of frustration and disbelief, resisted the bewitching allure of Alura as he commented sharply, “Keep your weird mistresses out of my room, Devereaux.”
Devereaux's touch upon Alura was tender, hinting at a deeper connection. He defended her with a solemnity that intrigued and perplexed Marius, “Do not insult my future wife, Marius.”
Marius, completely taken aback, searched for clarity, “What are you talking about?”
Devereaux, with a gaze that seemed to penetrate the soul, locked eyes with Alura. His voice carried an air of destiny as he revealed a profound truth, “She is Naagloshii, a rare gift from the golden demon. Our wedding is this afternoon, and I expect you to be there.”
Devereaux made his way down the hallway. Alura walked gracefully beside him, her hand morphing into Agneyastra. With a playful flourish, she blew a kiss towards Marius's door before transforming back into her normal form.
Outside in the hallway, Alura tightened her grip on Devereaux's arm. “I'm sorry I couldn't obtain his blood,” she murmured, her voice tinged with regret. “But I won't give up. I have friends in the Dweller City, and they might be able to help.”
Devereaux brushed a strand of Alura's hair behind her ear, his eyes filled with understanding. He leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to her lips, his love for her shining through. “For now, my dear, let us focus on us,” he whispered, his voice carrying a sense of reassurance. “Our wedding is approaching, and that is a celebration worth cherishing.”
The early morning sun cast a golden hue upon the shores of the Water Kingdom as Evain rode her horse swiftly through the serene landscape. This beach, once a place where she and her fellow soldiers trained with strength and determination, had now become a haven for the demons that her father, King Arroyo, had made a dark pact with.
In the distance, she spotted her father engaged in an unsettling conversation with a demon adorned with a mesmerizing, gilded appearance. Determined to confront him, Evain urged her horse closer, her heart pounding with a mix of fear and defiance. As she approached, her voice trembled with urgency, “Father, where is the army? Why have we not deployed to fight in your honor?”
Arroyo's voice resonated with an unsettling calmness as he turned towards his daughter. “My dear Evain,” he replied, his tone betraying a hint of weariness, “I have decided not to send our soldiers into battle until the demons have fulfilled their end of the bargain. But for now, we must put aside our worries and partake in the celebration of your brother's wedding.”
Fury welled up within Evain, she mustered the courage to challenge her father's decision. “Marius will not marry again, Father. “
Arroyo's gaze turned piercing, measuring his daughter's determination against his own. “The demon has bestowed upon Devereaux a new bride. It is a gift we cannot refuse,” he declared, his voice tinged with a mix of resignation and authority. “You, Evain, shall spend the day with her, helping her prepare for the wedding. Now go, fulfill your duty.”
The Water Kingdom bustled with fervent activity as preparations for the wedding were underway. Delicate flowers were meticulously arranged in splendid assortments, vibrant tapestries adorned the walls, and the sweet aroma of fresh pastries filled the air. Evain sat beside Marius, her expression pensive, her eyes darting around the room.
Intriguingly, amidst the joyful atmosphere, she found her attention drawn to the presence of mysterious beings. Demons, their otherworldly features concealed beneath a veneer of elegance, observed the festivities with an air of knowing. Their eyes, dark and intense, seemed to have a luring presence.
Whispering softly to Marius, Evain voiced her concerns, “Father may have halted the war for now, but it seems our Kingdom has been infiltrated by demons... What does this mean for our home and our people?”
Marius, his voice tinged with caution, questioned her, “Are you questioning father's intentions? Are you doubting his decisions?”
Reassuringly, Evain replied, “Never... I only seek to understand and protect our Kingdom, our legacy.”
Marius, his gaze steely, implored her to exercise discretion. “Then, what you must do is keep your thoughts guarded. This room is full of ears, awaiting every word exchanged. Let us put on a facade of benevolence, flash our most captivating smiles, and silently observe as our brother embarks on his journey of matrimony.”
