After bidding a farewell to my dear friend Theodor, I, Stalworth, Duke Glenmore, engaged in a conversation about Solarasta, the city under Glenmore's rule. According to him, Solarasta was a city blessed by the Spirits of Light, which was why the first king of the human kingdom had named it as such. The name Solarasta combined the elements of "solar," signifying radiance and brilliance, and "astra," referencing the stars.
The people of Solarasta held a special adoration for the spirits, surpassing that of any other region in Eldorium.
"Your Majesty, we shall now depart from the capital, Luminarie, and make our way to the City of Light, Solarasta," Duke Glenmore informed me as the guards at the border opened the gates for our passage.
"I am truly excited to see your city, Duke," I replied with a smile, parting the curtains of the carriage to catch a glimpse of the outside. As expected, Solarasta lived up to its name, a city adorned with countless lights, emanating a serene white aura reminiscent of the Holy Spirit. In the center, stood the grand statue of the Elegant Spirit King of Light, Luminarch.
"It is a sight to behold," I exclaimed without hesitation, my face filled with excitement. Even Stalworth, a composite figure, was struck with awe upon witnessing the beautiful and elegant statue of the Spirit King of Light.
"Ahem... I am honored that my city has left such an impression on Your Majesty," Duke Glenmore replied, a smile lighting up his face, visibly pleased by my words and excitement.
"Indeed, Duke. Your estate's architecture is comparable to that of Luminarie," I remarked, offering my gratitude as Glenmore graciously bowed.
As we explored the city in our carriage, Glenmore elaborated on its culture and shared more insights. Eventually, we arrived at his magnificent mansion. The grandeur of the estate was befitting of his noble status, but what truly surprised me was the formidable ensemble of guards stationed there. Over a hundred well-trained knights protected the Duke and his family.
"Welcome back, Lord Glenmore," greeted the head butler, opening the carriage door and bowing respectfully before us.
"Your Majesty, it is an honor to be in your presence. We are delighted that you have decided to grace our estate with your presence," two ladies and a gentleman bowed and expressed their gratitude towards me.
"Please, rest assured. I am here not as the King, but as a guest," I smiled at them, aiming to make them feel more at ease, while the Duke took charge of the introductions.
The Duke introduced me to his wife, "Seraphina Nightshade Glenmore." She was his second wife, as his first had tragically passed away at a young age due to an incurable illness. Seraphina hailed from the Nightshade family, who governed the western borders of Eldorium. The Duke had met her at a royal gathering, where he engaged in conversation with Viscount Nightshade and subsequently sought Seraphina's hand in marriage.
Following the marriage, Seraphina decided to adopt the Nightshade name. In terms of appearance, she was remarkably beautiful and elegant, with blonde hair that perfectly complemented her deep blue eyes. Her regal posture and fair, snow-white skin further added to her royal aura. Seraphina not only possessed elegance but also exuded a calm and collected demeanor, showing no signs of uncertainty or distress as she stood before me.
"It is a pleasure to meet you, Duchess Glenmore. The Duke has spoken highly of your beauty, but seeing you in person surpasses even his praise," I expressed with a smile, gracefully kissing her hand to convey my goodwill. Seraphina returned the smile and blushed slightly.
Next, the Duke introduced me to his son, "Caussius Nightshade Glenmore." Caussius greeted me with respect, offering a bow. Rumor had it that Caussius was one of the most handsome individuals in the kingdom of Eldorium. His charm captivated the hearts of many noble ladies, to the extent that they eagerly inquired if Caussius would attend various banquets and events.
Standing at a height of 6 feet, he possessed a well-built, muscular physique, with his blonde hair and blue eyes reminiscent of his mother's. Caussius was undoubtedly a heartthrob. However, beneath his attractive appearance, I sensed a certain malevolent aura that left me uncertain of the challenges he faced, yet it was clear they were far from pleasant.
Lastly, the Duke introduced me to his daughter, "Aria Nightshade Glenmore." Aria greeted me with respect and warmth, mirroring her mother's mannerisms. Aria bore a striking resemblance to the Duchess, with matching hair, fair skin, and deep blue eyes. It was evident that she was truly her mother's daughter. However, both the Duchess and her children exuded a sense of maliciousness in their presence.
"The Duke and Duchess must be immensely proud to have such handsome and beautiful children. Not only are they visually pleasing, but they also exhibit exceptional manners and a sense of responsibility," I commended, witnessing the Duke and Duchess light up upon hearing my words.
Curiously, I could not perceive the same aura emanating from the Duke. It was peculiar as my sense of smell had never failed me before. Glancing at Stalworth to confirm if he too sensed anything amiss, I discovered that even he shook his head in denial. How could this be?
"Your Majesty, the room has been prepared," the royal butler informed the Duke, signaling our entrance into the grand mansion.
"Looks like you already sent a letter to your family yesterday, Duke Glenmore," I remarked, patting him playfully on the back.
"I wanted to ensure I could extend the warmest welcome to Your Majesty. Your presence alone is more than enough," the Duke replied with a slightly nervous smile.
Chuckling, I responded enthusiastically, "Do not fret, Duke. Your warm welcome has far exceeded my expectations."
"Hey! Can you hear me?" Startled by the sudden voice in my head, I panicked, scanning the surroundings. My sudden distress even alarmed Stalworth and the Duke.
"Are you all right, Your Majesty?" Stalworth and the Duke inquired, their concern evident in their voices.
"Yes, I believe... I am tired. If you don't mind, Duke, I would like to rest alone for a while," I requested, attempting to regain composure, as the Duke called the head butler to escort us to the prepared guest room.
"Then, I shall summon you for lunch, Your Majesty. Please inform me if you require anything in the meantime," the Duke bowed before us as we headed towards the guest room in the company of the butler.
Upon reaching the room, the butler and the maids were dismissed by Stalworth. As he approached, he inquired about my well-being.
"I am all right, Stalworth. I heard a voice in my head earlier, as if someone were calling for me," I confided in him, my unease palpable. The suddenness of the situation left even Stalworth surprised as a small fairy materialized before us, emanating a radiant white aura akin to starlight. It was a beautiful fairy with fair skin, silver hair, and vibrant crimson eyes.
"Stalworth, can you see her?" I asked, hoping he shared the same experience. Stalworth nodded, standing guard in front of me while drawing his sword cautiously.
"I see a floating white orb, Your Majesty. Please exercise caution," Stalworth replied, his stance alert as the fairy hovered near him before returning to my side, causing Stalworth to grow nervous and wary.
"Wait, Stalworth, lower your guard," I intervened, recognizing the fairy's true nature. "The white orb is, in fact, a fairy. I can perceive her complete form. Can you explain why Stalworth can only see you as a white orb?"
With a gentle smile, the fairy settled on my shoulder. "I am truly impressed that you can perceive my true form. It signifies that you are favored by one of the Spirit Kings or Queens. As for your companion, the reason he sees me as a white orb is that, although he possesses the blessings of the spirits, he lacks the recognition bestowed upon you by the Spirit Kings and Queens."
"I am Elysia, one of the esteemed and powerful spirits who can only be seen by those favored by our royal leaders. Others who receive blessings from lesser spirits perceive me merely as a white orb, much like your companion. However, individuals without such blessings are neither able to hear me nor perceive my true form." The fairy gracefully fluttered near Stalworth before returning to my side, eliciting a mix of nervousness and fear from him.
"Fear not, Stalworth. She is a high-ranking spirit, and her intentions are not malevolent. Please be seated," I reassured him, urging him to relax and join me.
"Elysia, why have you come to the human kingdom, and what brings you to me?" I looked into the fairy's eyes with a sense of urgency.
"I am surprised that despite being favored by one of our kings or queens, you remain oblivious to your surroundings. Have you forgotten why you came here?" Elysia sighed in disappointment, her gaze unwavering.
"How do you know?" I exclaimed, gazing intently at the fairy. "Is she here?"
Elysia nodded, a subtle smirk forming on her lips. "Indeed, she is here—the daughter of Glenmore—the one you seek."
"How is that possible? His daughter bears no resemblance," I protested, my voice filled with desperation, yet Elysia swiftly delivered a punch to my face.
"Do not raise your voice at me, you beast! And do not think his daughter is the only one. There is another daughter of Glenmore, born to his first wife before her untimely demise. She is the one you have yet to meet—the one you yearn to see—Aurelianne Glenmore."
"She is currently locked away in the basement, trapped by her stepmother and step-siblings. She endures a less-than-ideal situation. I am the fairy who made a pact with her late mother. Her mother beseeched me to watch over her. However, as a spirit, I cannot aid her without forming a new pact, and forming such a pact with Aurelianne seems impossible for now."
A pang of pain gripped my heart. It felt as if an invisible hand had clenched it tightly. I wanted to ask more questions, but I feared whether I could bear to hear the entirety of the tale.
"Elysia, tell me how I can help her," I pleaded, falling to my knees, my eyes locked with the fairy.
"That is something you must discover on your own. My role here is done. May the Spirits of Light bless you and guide you along the right path," Elysia bid farewell before departing, leaving through the window.
"Wait! Elysia! Please, do not leave!" I shouted with all my might as I watched Elysia vanish into the distance.
"Your Majesty, what is happening? What did the spirit convey to you? Please, enlighten me. I would sacrifice my life to resolve any trouble," Stalworth grasped my shoulders, his gaze filled with concern and worry.
"I am fine, Stalworth. It's just... I heard a voice in my head as if someone were calling for me," I replied, attempting to compose myself, explaining the details to Stalworth. Even as I spoke, I saw his expression shift from seriousness to relief, then to anger.
"I shall fetch the lady immediately and slay anyone who dares to impede me!" Stalworth exclaimed, his anger fueling his intentions.
It troubled me that Stalworth would act without a proper plan, and I had to intervene before he could proceed recklessly.
"Hold, Stalworth! You cannot simply barge in without a plan. I yearn to see her as much as you do. Yet, if we act rashly, we may only exacerbate Aurelianne's suffering. I have a plan," I urged Stalworth to restrain himself, to trust in my judgment.
Reluctantly, Stalworth relinquished his heated determination, returning to his seat. Seated alongside Stalworth, I contemplated our next course of action. We needed to gather information and uncover the truth before directly confronting the Duke and Duchess. It was time to call upon the aid of my cousin.
Stalworth's eyes widened in surprise. "Are you certain, Your Majesty? Do you truly intend to summon the formidable Alistair Clawborne from the renowned Shadowcrest clan? He possesses the capability to single-handedly annihilate the entire Duke family and their retinue for mere amusement!"
I understand Stalworth's doubts regarding Alistair. Having grown up together, I know my cousin, a member of the leopard folk, better than anyone. Alistair was there with us when the previous King sought to eliminate our lineage, witnessing the tragic end of our family before the Kingdom's eyes. The King's cruelty stained our lives forever. From that point on, Alistair became a figure devoid of mercy, showing no hesitation in dealing with his enemies and targets.
Alistair's skills extend beyond mere stealth and swiftness; he possesses a fearless determination to eliminate anyone who stands in his way. Standing at an imposing height of 6 feet 5 inches, his lithe and agile frame belies his immense strength, capable of slicing through even the most sturdy of trees. His eyes gleam with a piercing yellow hue, while his jet-black hair bears the stains of countless battles, forever crimson with the blood of his adversaries. Such is his reputation that even nobles tremble at the mention of his name, granting him the fearsome title of "The Primal Regicide."
"Stalworth, rest assured. Alistair will not unleash his merciless tendencies this time. He holds Aurelianne in high regard and has shown her utmost respect. For this mission, there is no one better suited than Alistair."
Having convinced Stalworth to place his trust in my decision, I approached the window and utilized my connection with nature to summon the raven, sending a message to Alistair, and urging him to join us as soon as possible.
"Your Majesty, may I be granted permission to enter?" I quickly dismissed the raven and requested Stalworth to open the door.
"Greetings, Your Majesty. The Duke has requested your presence for lunch," the servant informed me, and I acquiesced, allowing them to guide us.
"Very well... Lead the way," I replied, following the servant as we ventured towards the dining area.