At Night (End of the Conference)
After a thorough discussion, the meeting came to an end. King Edgar nodded appreciatively, expressing his gratitude, "Indeed! Thank you all. Your unwavering dedication never fails, Brother!" The Emperor and the Empress alongside the three guests exchanged serene glances, acknowledging his sentiment.
"Edgar, there's no need to make it sound like a favour," the Empress responded with a soft smile. "Our mutual assistance strengthens our bond."
The Emperor included, "Absolutely. Our cooperation is a testament to our strong alliance."
King Edgar leaned back with a satisfied smile, "Well said. Our trust and understanding are the foundation."
The Emperor's contented expression remained as he addressed them, "Very well, if you truly wish to show your gratitude... you could be of assistance by keeping us informed about the activities of the Cathartic Realm. Whether through our private 'communique gathering' or letters, alert us to any potential threats they might pose." The counsellor too concurred.
King Edgar readily agreed, a smile escaping his lips, "Certainly, that's a reasonable request. I will make sure to keep you updated."
The Empress added her perspective, "Considering your correspondence with Arawn, Draven dear, why not include these updates in your letters to him?"
Draven nodded, a light smile finally escaped his lips, "Sure."
With those words, the meeting came to an end, leaving behind a lingering sense of unity and the unbreakable alliance they had reaffirmed.
During the final moments, Draven and Abel exchanged a meaningful glance. Abel's gaze shifted to the Counsellor of Affairs, Trade Emissary, and Naval Commander, positioned nearby. Their presence had been instrumental in shaping the discussions. The Counsellor's attentiveness, the Trade Emissary's diplomatic nods, and the Naval Commander's unwavering posture had all played a vital role in achieving a satisfactory outcome.
Abel found himself impressed by how seamlessly these three figures had integrated into the proceedings, representing their realms with contrast. The room was charged with a spirit of cooperation and shared purposes, igniting his own determination to contribute just as significantly to his realm's future.
Soon, the Counsellor of Affairs, Trade Emissary, and Naval Commander—stood up in unison, with a silent signal of their departure. With polite nods and acknowledgements to the Emperor and the assembled leaders, they began to make their way towards the grand doors that led out of the council chamber.
The room gradually resumed its bustling atmosphere as some advisers left while the remaining courtiers shifted their focus to the next set of proceedings.
The Emperor turned his attention to Draven, inquiring, "Considering you've come after such a long time, would you be interested in staying the night in Almeria?" King Edgar's agreement was swift, accompanied by a nod, "Indeed! It's a gracious offer, and since I've entrusted the Duke with overseeing the Camellias Realm, we've allocated two more days for this stay as planned by Draven." His explanation was clear.
The Empress lent her wholehearted support, endorsing, "Accommodations have been arranged in your respective dormitories. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask."
King Edgar's lips curved into a smile while Draven nodded, "Thank you, we appreciate it." Their gratitude was expressed as The Emperor extended an offer, "Allow me to guide you. Come, let me show you around!" With that, everyone left the hall, together.
At The Knight's Training Base
"Huff! Huff!" Enya panted, and General Void questioned, "What's the matter, Enya? Feeling tired already?" Enya, brushing off her boots, responded, "No, it's just that I'm quite hungry. That's all."
A tall, young man stood nearby, his posture unwavering, a slim smile escaped his lips. Neatly groomed dark brown hair framed his face, and his steely grey eyes held a focused intensity as he was dressed in a neatly worn base uniform. "Rather carefree, aren't you?" he remarked with a voice that resonated with evident seriousness.
Enya's attention shifted towards him, caught off guard, "Huh?" she held grasping his sight, "And...Who are you?"
General Void cleared his throat, "You two haven't met?" Enya shook her head in denial. The young man introduced himself composedly, "I am Deion Ilene, the 2nd battalion leader. Pleased to make your acquaintance, Enya Verne."
Enya blinked her eyes curious, stepping nearer, "Ohh...So. You are the 2nd squad leader? The one who has struck fear into his entire squad?" she questioned guessing concerned.
Deion squinted, slightly perplexed, "Excuse me?"
Smirking, Enya replied, "Haha, never mind. Repeating myself isn't really my style. Anyway, pleased to meet you too." she offered her hand.
Deion nodded, maintaining his seriousness as he shook her hand. Enya's grin widened. "Allow me to offer you some advice, kind sir. It wouldn't hurt to give a bit more attention to your squad. You've got some unfair knights there. Just a suggestion," she suggested.
Deion's eyebrows drew nearer, "..."
Interrupting the tension, General Void coughed. "Ahem, listen up, Deion. As her senior, you'll guide her when I'm unavailable. Both of you, take note," he directed. Deion nodded, "...Sure, I wou-" he began, only to be abruptly cut off by Enya's peculiar assurance.
"No need to fret, Brother. I am used to handling everything on my own. You mustn't bother yourself," she smiled genuinely tapping his shoulder although her words were quite blatant. Deion, trying to keep his calm, noted, "You certainly do speak... a lot."
General Void's expression turned stern, his instructions clear. "Ignore her remarks. Just follow my orders." Deion responded with a serious nod.
Soon, it was dark. Beneath the night sky, the training base was bathed in subdued lighting. The moon and stars added a serene touch. A delicate breeze danced through the trees, mingling with the distant sound of brisk footsteps. The air bore a refreshing chill, carrying the fragrance of blossoms. Amidst the calm, the base remained ever-vigilant, conducting late-night patrols as part of their duties.
After a while of conversation, General Void's attention shifted to Enya. "Enya. Listen carefully. Your current powers, as I've observed, may not be sufficient to confront Rowan, who holds the fifth rank. Thus, I suggest you begin by challenging the lower battalion leaders rather than aiming for the top five," he advised.
"Heh... You certainly do seem quite concerned, don't you? Why make it sound so serious? Geez. Fine. I'll admit it. You can guide me on who to duel with..." Enya retorted scratching her head, "But! Just remember, this is a temporary phase. I'll surpass your expectations real quick, just you wait and watch," she confidently vowed with assurance in her tone. General Void's gaze widened at her determination, while Deion observed the exchange silently.
Soon, General Void patted Enya's shoulder, "Absolutely. You're capable, and the day will come," he affirmed. Enya, suddenly knitting her brows added, "And! she spoke miffed, "I'm not quite satisfied to quit the sparring with Leader Rowan... remember, you're the one to blame for that decision."
"Besides, make sure not to let my words slip your mind and go against them, alright? I'm not just boasting. I'm giving you my word." Her gaze held a pointed emphasis, her tone cross yet firm.
"She certainly has immense self-assurance," Deion thought, somewhat awed. General Void nodded, concluding, "Alright. It's time for patrol." With that statement, they eventually went their separate ways.
Enya wandered leisurely through the expanse of the Imperial Palace grounds, a soft sigh escaping her lips. "It's disheartening to realise... my weaknesses," she mused, a touch of self-reflection in her thoughts.
Unexpectedly, a hushed voice called, "Psst. Enya, over here." Enya, startled, curved around and looked sideways, "Huh?"
There, tucked behind a marble fountain, Raven knelt with a glint of care in her eyes, as she called Enya. Enya's surprise gave way to a whispered query, "Lady Raven? How come? How did you sneak out so late at night?" Raven smiled gesturing, "Come, sit." With a slight hesitation, Enya settled beside her, the cool stone of the fountain against her back.
Raven winked, "It's all because of my irresistible charms. Anyways, I wanted to talk to you." Enya's lips curled into a smile, her brow knitting slightly as she pointed at herself, "Uh-huh...With me?"
Affirming with a nod, Raven's gaze shifted to the side, undeniably radiant. Enya impressed asked, "Wow man. What is it? You look very shiny and pretty today." Raven looked below, chuckling softly, "You look pretty dashing yourself,"
Enya's grin adorned her face as she casually brushed her hair aside with her fingers, a touch of flair in her movement, "I am always dashing. Nothing new,"
Draven stood on they balcony of his dorm, his eyes shutting gently to embrace the touch of the wind. In turn causing his gleaming white hair to dance and sway with a gentle flow.
-He remained unmoved by it all.
There had been an emptiness within him, a void that persisted, and perhaps it would linger on indefinitely. Most of what people think was his happiness was was far from what truly brought him joy.
At least, that's what Draven himself thought.
Hearing such comments persistently, despite his cheerful persona and earnest efforts to grow, felt unjust. Each word seemed to strip him of aspirations, crushing dreams and smothering any sparks of hope for the future. And so Draven, found himself entangled in a web of conflict with his father, his only family.
This point, upon realisation, had softened him, to transform for his own sake. Yet, this transformation lacked the soothing feeling of self-acceptance.
Conversely, if someone were to inquire about his desires, his wishes...to him, it was deep while to others, it appeared as nothing but trivial-
―Or so Arawn presumed this without permission. Realising the fallacy of his assumption, he glanced sideways and shook his head.
Arawn's shadow had appeared in his balcony. He soon caught sight of Draven on the third adjacent balcony of the row, both seemingly parallel in their positions. Arawn stood calmly, his arms crossed, as he gazed downward,
"...It seems that his feelings have been genuinely hurt."
Draven, on the other hand, had gloom surrounding him. Sighing once more, he smacked the rails, crossly, "Geez! What's wrong with me?" he inquired, his expression marked by confusion as he scratched his head in disbelief. Suddenly shifting his gaze ahead, to a picturesque sight — shimmering streetlights, towering buildings, vigilant watch lights, and occasional sparks, Draven found himself entranced, his stare locked onto the scene. "It's undeniably beautiful. Almeria holds a true charm. At least... it's not empty..." he murmured.
"Why am I feeling so lost? This isn't like me at all. If Arawn were to witness me in this state, he'd..." Draven's thoughts trailed off as he recalled him. Suddenly, he clenched his fist tightly, determination flashing in his eyes, "No matter what others say. I wan't falter. Though. I don't think if I can overcome this conflicted feeling I...must do what I desire. If I can't then I'll beat myself up!" With that thought, he puffed his cheeks and stomped his feet, kicking at the rails again and again like a stubborn child.
"...I see, he regained his usual self..." Arawn, who was leaning against the balcony rails and watching over the situation (speechless), sighed faintly upon hearing Draven scolding himself, and disappeared as it was.