The atmosphere in the Duke's hall was heavy, thick with a tension so palpable even Alex could feel it—despite his usual indifference. Beside him, Aria and EMI sat in silence, perched on rigid chairs facing the grand door that led into Duke Alaric's main chamber.
The imposing carved wood seemed to whisper tales of power and legacy. Yet, what awaited beyond was not just another meeting—it was the beginning of a new and dangerous mission.
"Why do you think he summoned us so urgently?" EMI finally broke the silence, her gaze fixed on the door.
Aria, sitting with perfect posture and her chin held high, replied calmly,
"If my father requested our presence, it means something of extreme importance has occurred. He wouldn't bother interrupting us over something trivial."
Alex, who had been staring at the floor, sighed.
"If this means I have to wear that suit again, I'm out," he joked, trying to lighten the mood.
EMI rolled her eyes but couldn't help a smile.
"Come on, you said yourself you felt more comfortable in it. Though I don't know why you make it sound like a carnival costume."
Before he could respond, the doors creaked open, revealing Duke Alaric. His imposing figure and serious expression made even Alex sit up straighter.
"Enter," the Duke said, his voice resonating like contained thunder.
Inside the room, the Duke began to explain the situation. A map of the kingdom and its surrounding regions was spread across the table, with several red markers dotting it.
"It's been years since the dark mage Veyron was defeated and banished from these lands," the Duke began, pointing to one of the marks. "He was a man whose power and ambition nearly destroyed the kingdom. But thanks to the sacrifice of Magnus, the great archmage, we were able to stop him."
Aria nodded solemnly, recalling the stories her father had told her about Magnus's bravery. EMI, on the other hand, looked intrigued.
"Why should we worry about a man who was already defeated?"
The Duke looked up, his eyes shining with grim intensity.
"Because he has returned."
A heavy silence filled the room as his words echoed in their minds.
"Several reports have reached the castle in recent weeks," he continued. "Entire villages gone. Creatures never before seen in these lands. And a group of mercenaries serving an unknown master. Everything points to one thing—Veyron is back. More powerful than ever. And with a clear goal: revenge."
Alex swallowed hard, a chill running down his spine.
"And what are we supposed to do about it?" he asked, trying to keep his voice steady.
The Duke looked him straight in the eye.
"Investigate. Veyron and his followers must be hiding somewhere remote, but we don't know where. I need you, as a group, to gather information, track their movements, and if possible, find their exact location."
Aria nodded with determination.
"We'll do everything we can."
The Duke nodded back, adding a warning:
"But remember, this mage is dangerous. Do not underestimate the darkness he commands. Don't act recklessly. Just observe, and return with what you learn."
Alex exchanged glances with EMI and Aria. Though the mission seemed straightforward on the surface, he knew they were stepping into something far more dangerous than they'd ever faced.
After leaving the chamber, the group began planning. EMI suggested checking nearby villages for clues, while Aria proposed contacting some of her family's informants who might know about Veyron's recent movements.
Alex, meanwhile, couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. The tale of the dark mage unsettled him, and though he didn't say it aloud, he knew this encounter would be unlike anything they had faced before.
"This isn't going to be easy, is it?" Alex asked while adjusting his suit.
Aria, watching him with a warm smile, gently touched his shoulder.
"No, but at least you look incredibly ready for it."
EMI, standing beside him, crossed her arms and nodded—though with a faint blush.
"Yeah… I guess it doesn't look that bad. But don't let it get to your head."
Alex smiled—for the first time feeling that, maybe, with them by his side, he could make it through whatever was coming.