"How is the progress on the Gu Cheng investigation?" asked King Rodin, opening the conversation. His gaze was fixed on the Grand Master of the Order, Li Yuan.
"Your Majesty, as of now, Gu Cheng's whereabouts are still being investigated and"
Before Li Yuan could finish his report, King Rodin interrupted him with a firm and commanding tone.
"How can he still not be found? And why was my daughter discovered in his chamber? Wasn't this search initiated three months ago?"
"Please remain calm, Your Majesty. Allow me to explain," said Commander of the Knights, Rowan Ardent, attempting to ease the tension.
"What the Grand Master meant is that the search is ongoing. However, we have uncovered a new lead, Your Majesty."
"A lead?" King Rodin furrowed his brows slightly. His eyes narrowed, filled with suspicion. Rowan promptly continued his explanation.
"Yes, Your Majesty. One of our soldiers received information from a local resident."
Rowan took a deep breath, then retrieved a small map from within his cloak. He unfolded it before the King.
"Right here, Your Majesty," he said, pointing to a specific location within the Forbidden Forest. "The locals reported strong tremors, a shockwave, and the appearance of something resembling black tentacles."
"When did this event occur?" King Rodin asked again, raising one eyebrow with growing interest and concern.
Artas, Rowan, and Li Yuan answered in unison,
"At the exact time the princess was found, Your Majesty."
"So it happened three hours ago?"
"That is correct, Your Majesty," they responded together.
"At this moment, the investigation is still ongoing. In the name of the Order, I have deployed the Holy Legion to follow up on this lead," said Li Yuan. The twenty-eight-year-old man then handed over a magical communication stone. The stone was directly linked to the leader of the Holy Legion, Leon Dorna.
"Even so, the Holy Legion alone will not suffice. Artas!" King Rodin called out, his sharp gaze falling upon the man.
"Yes, Your Majesty," Artas responded promptly.
"Contact the Tower of Sorcery. One of their elders once promised me a favor. Ask them to send a mage from the Thirteenth Circle," King Rodin commanded with resolute authority.