The grand hall shimmered with opulence as King Gaius's birthday celebration reached its peak. The royal family mingled with nobles and guests. Kaidën, the second son, charmingly navigated the crowd, his combat-honed physique drawing admiring glances. Lady Sofia and Lady Lydia vied for his attention.
Lady Sofia: "Prince Kaidën, I've heard tales of your bravery in battle. Tell me, what drives your passion for combat?"
Kaidën: "The thrill of victory, my lady. And the honor of protecting our kingdom...and its beautiful ladies."
Lady Lydia giggled. "You're as charming as rumored, Prince Kaidën."
Kaidën smiled. "And you, Lady Lydia, are as lovely as the sunrise."
King Gaius's sisters, Princess Calantha and Princess Liana, charmed the nobles with their beauty. Princess Calantha's porcelain skin and raven hair captivated Lord Thomas.
Lord Thomas: "Your Highness, your beauty shines brighter than the stars."
Princess Liana's golden locks and sapphire eyes sparkled as she laughed. "Lord Thomas, your flattery is as smooth as silk."
Lord Thomas smiled. "I speak only truth, Your Highness. You and Princess Calantha are as lovely as the morning dew."
Princess Calantha's cheeks flushed. "You're too kind, Lord Thomas."
Just then, Dylan, the eldest son, approached, his elemental magic tattoo gleaming on his shoulder. He whispered something in Kaidën's ear and handed him a small, green pouch.
Kaidën's expression turned serious. "Excuse me, ladies. Duty calls."
As Kaidën followed Dylan, the music paused, and the crowd's attention shifted to the king's conversation with a diplomat.
King Gaius: "I propose we establish a cultural exchange program with the nomadic tribes."
Diplomat: "But, Your Majesty, their customs are so different. Are you certain—"
King Gaius: "Exactly! We can learn from their expertise in desert navigation and trade routes."
The diplomat's eyes widened in surprise.
Meanwhile, Florian listened intently, his mind racing with visions of far-off lands. Nearby, Lucas conversed with Knight Captain Orion.
Lucas: "Sir, have you heard rumors of dark forces gathering beyond our borders?"
Orion: "Unsubstantiated whispers, Prince Lucas. But we'll investigate."
A servant whispered to a guest, "I heard the king has five sons. Where's the fourth?"
Another servant smiled discreetly. "Prince Erindale's...indisposed. Not feeling well."
In his room, Erindale lounged on a couch, dressed but disinterested.
Back at the party, Queen Eritrea shone in her emerald gown. She exchanged warm smiles with the guests.
Queen Eritrea (to a noble): "I've heard your estate's gardens are breathtaking. I must visit soon."
Noble: "It would be our honor, Your Majesty. Perhaps a spring festival?"
Queen Eritrea nodded, her eyes sparkling. "I'll send an invitation to the royal family."
After a while, Queen Eritrea excused herself, seeking fresh air. "I'll take a stroll in the courtyard."
A servant accompanied her, carrying a delicate lantern. As they walked, the queen admired the castle's architecture.
Queen Eritrea: "This courtyard's design is inspired by ancient lore."
Servant: "Yes, Your Majesty. The stone carvings depict our kingdom's history."
Queen Eritrea smiled, her thoughts drifting to her family's legacy.
Unbeknownst to her, former Knight Captain Ryker lurked in the shadows, awaiting his moment.
Ryker charged, drawing his sword. "For my family!"
Sir Edward and Sir Lucas swiftly positioned themselves between Ryker and the queen, drawing their own swords.
Sir Edward: "Protect the queen!"
The clash of steel echoed through the courtyard.
Ryker's skills were honed from years of battle, but the guards were formidable opponents.
Ryker dodged Sir Lucas's strike and landed a blow to Sir Edward's chest, sending him stumbling back.
Sir Lucas engaged Ryker in a fierce duel, but Ryker's focus remained on the queen.
Queen Eritrea's eyes widened, frozen in terror.
Ryker feigned a retreat, luring Sir Lucas away from the queen.
He swiftly closed the distance, striking true.
The queen tried to flee, but Ryker's sword sliced through her gown, grazing her leg.
Queen Eritrea cried out, stumbling.
Sir Lucas rallied, striking Ryker with renewed ferocity.
Ryker parried, but Sir Lucas's determination kept him at bay.
Just as Ryker regained ground, a dark figure leapt from the shadows
firing an arrow that struck Ryker's chest.
Ryker crumpled, defeated.
Attached to the arrow was a note, scribbled in red ink:
"NO ONE HARMS THE FAMILY BUT ME."
The dark figure emerged, hooded and mysterious.
Sir Lucas rushed to the queen's side, concern etched on his face. "Your Majesty, are you harmed?"
Queen Amarantha winced, clutching her leg. "I...I think it's just a graze."
The hooded figure gazed at the queen, its presence radiating an aura of menace.
Sir Lucas positioned himself protectively between the queen and the figure.
The figure's gaze lingered on the queen before shifting to Sir Lucas.
A cold, mirthless smile spread across its face.
"Let the games begin."
---