Solace had just finished his quiet walk through the gardens, reflecting on the new abilities he had gained over the past month. The transformation had left him feeling invincible, but also oddly patient. He was no longer the naive figure who had simply been thrust into this world—he now had the power to shape his own destiny.
As he made his way back to his room, the door opened behind him, and the familiar voice of Lina echoed softly.
"Sir Solace, the King and Queen have requested your audience," Lina said, her tone polite but carrying an edge of urgency.
Solace turned slightly, his gaze falling on the twin maid. "Lead the way," he replied calmly, his voice steady.
The throne room of the royal palace was a vast, imposing space, its high ceilings adorned with intricate designs, and its floors paved with polished marble. It was a place where power was on full display, with massive columns framing the room. The light from the large windows made the room feel both majestic and suffocating—perfect for the games of kings and queens.
As Solace stepped into the room, he noticed that all the princes were already gathered. The King sat upon his imposing throne, looking as regal as ever. His piercing eyes followed Solace's every movement. Beside him stood Queen Alina, her demeanor as composed as ever, her eyes soft but sharp.
The three princes were present as well, each of them standing tall and watching Solace carefully. At the far end of the room stood Princess Seraphine, her arms crossed, her expression unreadable but with a subtle tension in her stance. She acknowledged him with a glance, but there was no smile on her face—just a cool and calculated look.
Solace took his place, standing a few steps in front of the royal family. He didn't kneel or show deference; instead, he stood with the same calm confidence he always carried.
The King stood from his throne, his bellowing voice breaking the silence in the room. "I have called you all here for an important matter," he began, his voice carrying a commanding tone. "Tomorrow, we will be departing for the Kingdom Gathering."
The princes exchanged looks, a mixture of curiosity and concern in their eyes. Solace remained still, watching carefully.
"The Kingdom Gathering will bring together the leaders and representatives of the Human Kingdoms," the King continued, his eyes locking onto each of the princes. "It is a time to exchange moves, learn about the political shifts of our peers, and strategize for the future. This gathering is crucial, and I expect each of you to participate with the full weight of our kingdom's honor."
The Princess Seraphine shifted slightly at the mention of the event, her eyes lingering on her father. The tension in the room was palpable, but the King pressed on, his voice growing more intense.
"Solace," the King's gaze suddenly shifted toward him. "You will accompany Seraphine as her guest. Your presence will be useful, especially as the Kingdoms begin to turn their gaze toward us. The other kingdoms will be watching closely, and your position will help make our intentions clear."
Solace's eyes narrowed slightly at the mention of being a guest. While he had no intention of leaving the kingdom for long, this gathering presented an opportunity. He wasn't just a "guest" in the traditional sense. His presence, alongside Seraphine's, would provide him with valuable insight into the kingdoms' power structures, their alliances, and who could potentially become an ally or an enemy.
He tilted his head slightly in acknowledgment of the King's words, but didn't voice any concerns. "Understood, Your Majesty," he said calmly.
The King nodded before turning to his sons, his voice now softer but still carrying the weight of a ruler. "I expect each of you to conduct yourselves with honor and discretion at the gathering. We must ensure that our kingdom is seen as strong, but also as an ally to be reckoned with. Any weakness shown will be exploited."
The three princes nodded in unison, their expressions serious. Each one seemed to be strategizing in their minds, thinking about the potential benefits and pitfalls of the upcoming gathering.
The Queen, who had been silent until now, stepped forward, her presence like a calming breeze in the tense room. "Remember," she said, her voice gentle yet filled with authority, "the future of our kingdom rests on unity. Do not let petty disagreements cloud the bigger picture."
Seraphine looked at Solace once more, her eyes meeting his for a fleeting moment. There was something unsaid between them, something that spoke of both caution and expectation.
"Very well, we depart tomorrow morning," the King concluded, sitting back down on his throne. "Prepare yourselves accordingly."
As the royal family began to disperse, Solace stayed for a moment longer, observing the princes and Seraphine, who lingered near the door.
The sun was just beginning to rise over the kingdom, its warm rays casting long shadows over the palace courtyard. The air was thick with the hum of preparation, and a sense of anticipation filled the air. Servants rushed to and fro, preparing everything for the departure. Carriages were loaded with goods, and guards took their positions, ready to accompany the royal party.
Solace stood at the edge of the courtyard, his eyes scanning the bustling activity. He was dressed in simple but elegant attire, his mask still covering his face. Seraphine walked toward him, her steps slow and measured. She wore an elegant gown, her hair styled in a way that displayed both her beauty and authority.
"We leave for the gathering today," Seraphine said, her voice low and almost imperceptible over the bustling sounds. "I hope you're ready for what's to come."
Solace nodded, his mind sharp as ever. "I've been ready for quite some time," he replied calmly. His eyes scanned the surroundings, calculating how the gathering would unfold.
As the royal party prepared to depart, the air was thick with unspoken tension. This wasn't just a diplomatic meeting; it was a battle of influence.
The carriages were ready, and the entourage began its journey toward the Kingdom Gathering. This would be the first time he would see firsthand how the other kingdoms played the game of power. Would he emerge as a key player in this political web, or would he remain on the sidelines? Either way, Solace was ready.
[A/N: Don't think of normal carriages. Think of mana powered carriages, similar to cars but not exactly.]