As they entered a chamber of Walter Gregg, Aarav noticed a middle-aged man wearing a white robe frowning at them. There is a foreboding aura emanating from that man. Aarav felt the pressure, but didn't flinched and kept his ground.
Walter surprised by the outcome, he expected Anna to withhold the pressure, but Triston.
Anna broke the silence in the room.
"Father, please heal Triston," she asked, bowing respectfully.
He nodded and looked over Triston's body. He motioned Aarav to have a seat, and as he assessed Triston's condition, he checked his pulse. White light glowed at the place of contact, and Triston's pain gradually faded.
After healing him, he looked back at Anna and asked, "Why are you here, Anna? You're supposed to be collaborating with the Barrington regiment," Walter asked sternly.
"Father, I returned to give an official report to your Majesty and to request reinforcements," she replied.
"I see," Walter said, turning towards Aarav. "How did you get these injuries, Triston?"
Knock, knock
They were interrupted by a sharp tap on the door before Aarav could reply to Walter's question.
"Sir Walter, your Majesty has summoned Anna Grigg and Triston Barrington to the Royal Court," said the royal guard standing at the door.
While Anna's reaction remained unchanged, Aarav was taken aback, but kept his face expressionless, thanks to his experience as an advocate. Observing Triston's reaction, Walter wondered, 'He is not acting like usual?'
"We'll be there right away," Walter agreed
After a few moments, they began walking towards the Royal Palace, with Walter leading the way and Anna and Triston following closely behind.
As they moved towards their destination, there was complete silence, and Aarav decided not to ask any questions. Instead, he delved into Triston's memories to learn more about his past and the issues that people had with him.
Triston was the first child of General Daniel Barrington and Scarlett Barrington. He was previously engaged to Princess Eleanora Winfield, but their relationship ended. However, a shocking revelation came to light that Triston's mother was a Demoness. This caused citizens of the Kingdom to criticize and question the Barrington family, as the most powerful General's wife was a Demon. The King issued an order to kill both the Demon and the newborn child, but surprisingly, General Daniel Barrington remained silent. Triston's mother was ultimately pursued and assassinated, but Triston was spared due to some unknown arrangements. His memory of the event is hazy, as if it were locked away.
As they approached the Royal Court, Aarav wondered, "Why didn't they assassinate Triston?"
As they entered the throne hall, they were greeted with the sight of slender braziers encircling each of the sixteen granite columns, casting a warm orange glow across the entire hall. The stonework of the curved ceiling was relatively simple yet elegant, and it danced in the flickering light of the braziers. Along the walls, pointed banners adorned with emblazoned crowns hung high, showcasing the Kingdom's grandeur. Sculptures of folk heroes and legends stood beneath each banner, their faces illuminated by the flickering light of the braziers.
The tall windows that framed the hall were draped in ruby-colored curtains, adorned with burnished corners and borders. These curtains were kept open to allow natural light to enter the hall, providing a sense of serenity to the space. At the center of the hall, a gleaming oak throne sat, flanked by two nearly identical seats for the Queens. The throne was encrusted with intricate inscriptions, and a chiseled ship was mounted on each of the slim ears. The bulky pillows on the throne were a light ruby and had emblazoned fringes.
To address the royal highness, one would stand on the ruby rug that ran down from the throne, marking the closest spot. Those seeking the wisdom of the King or Queen could do so on the abundance of modest yet comfortable iron benches that formed a wide V-shape facing the throne. Those of higher standing could take a seat in the lavish balustrades facing the throne, a display of their status in the Kingdom. The Royal Court of Histon Empire was an awe-inspiring sight, one that commanded respect and admiration from all who entered.
"Greetings, Your Majesty," Walter said, bowing his head and bending his knees.
Triston was snapped out of his stupor by Walter's voice. He saw both Anna and her father bowing down, and immediately imitated them.
The King's voice echoed in the hall, "Rise, my loyal subjects. What brings you to the Royal Palace today?"
Anna stood up, his eyes respectfully meeting the King's, "Your Majesty, we bring news of the recent attacks on the city near borders under Barrington division."
The King's expression turned serious, "Speak, what do you know?"
Anna stepped forward, his voice clear and firm, "Your Majesty, I have reason to believe that these attacks are not the work of ordinary thieves. They are being orchestrated by a powerful rogue mage."
The King's brow furrowed, "A mage, you say? We haven't had any rogue mages in the kingdom for years. Are you sure?"
Anna nodded, "Yes, Your Majesty. I have reason to believe that this mage is working with a group of mercenaries. I have been tracking their movements and I believe I have found their hideout."
The King's expression softened, "Thank you for bringing this to my attention, Anna. Your loyalty to the kingdom is commendable."
Aarav observed the exchange from the sidelines, his mind racing with questions. Who was this powerful mage? And why was Anna so invested in solving this issue? He decided to bide his time and continue observing.
The King turned to Walter, "Gather a team of our best soldiers and send them to investigate this hideout with Anna."
Walter bowed, "Yes, Your Majesty."