"I've unearthed evidence that Count Gabel had recently communicated with our neighboring kingdom, Avalonia. I have strong suspicions that one of the elder members of the Chaos Order may be situated there,"
Iris disclosed, her voice laden with gravitas. Uncertainty still clouded the authenticity of the elder rank she had mentioned, but this piece of information was undeniably significant.
"That's a substantial revelation. So, how do you propose we handle this? Declaring war on Avalonia may not be the wisest course of action," Damian suggested, his tone reflecting the weight of consideration.
"For the time being, we must exercise discretion. We shouldn't do anything that would tip our hand. Instead, we'll observe them from a distance, discern their movements," Iris advised, her words measured and cautious. As she spoke, she seemed to catch something in her dimensional senses, turning her attention back to Seraphine and Damian.
"It appears Marquis Adrain is prepared. Brace yourselves; we're departing now," Iris declared, her fingers snapping as the group traversed the dimensional rifts once more.
Seraphine, despite her multiple experiences with this magic, still found it disorienting. It felt akin to riding a rollercoaster multiple times in quick succession, a sensation that threatened to leave her with a headache.
With Adrain now primed, Iris employed her magic to transport him as well. Yet, this time, Adrain unexpectedly vanished into the dimensional rift, prompting Iris to refine her approach to using this mystical conveyance.
In the span of a heartbeat, they materialized in a small meeting chamber. As Seraphine emerged from the dimensional rift, she instinctively cradled her head, struggling to regain her equilibrium. When her vision finally cleared, she found herself face to face with an aura of regal elegance.
The figure before her was resplendent in opulent attire and adorned with a golden crown upon his head. There could be no doubt—it was the emperor of this realm, Emperor Lucius Ashbourne.
"Greeting Your Imperial Excellency, the divine ruler of the Solara Empire "
Damian and Adrain intoned in unison, bowing respectfully before the emperor. Seraphine swiftly followed suit, her reverence for the majesty of the moment evident in her bearing and gesture.
All but Iris inclined their heads in a show of respect toward the emperor. Iris, on the other hand, offered a subtle nod, a gesture of acknowledgment befitting her unique status. Emperor Lucius did not take offense; he understood her position well and reciprocated with a nod of his own.
"Raise your heads, all of you. You are the heroes who averted disaster during the hunting ceremony. I am immensely grateful to you for saving our people and my son," Lucius conveyed, his gratitude accompanied by a gentle gesture toward Cedric, who sat beside him. Cedric appeared slightly apprehensive, though he maintained his composure in the company of the assembled guests.
"Please, take a seat. We have much to discuss," Lucius invited, and in unison, they heeded his suggestion, seating themselves around the conference table. The formal meeting had officially commenced.
Marquis Adrain and Damian assisted in delivering a comprehensive report, providing an account of the recent events to the emperor. Iris lent her expertise, elucidating the finer details. The proceedings flowed smoothly without interruption.
After a few hours of discussion, a short break was in order, and the group partook in afternoon tea at the meeting table. Seraphine found herself enchanted by the quality of the tea and desserts from the imperial family. It was a culinary experience that transcended her expectations.
"By the way, your name is Seraphine, right?" the emperor suddenly inquired, addressing Seraphine while she sipped her tea. Though nervous, she swiftly composed herself to respond.
"Yes, Your Majesty," Seraphine replied with proper deference.
"I heard from Damian that you are the one who taught him swordsmanship and martial arts, is that correct?" Emperor Lucius continued, his tone inquisitive.
"That is indeed correct, Your Majesty," Seraphine replied. Internally, she braced herself, fearing further questions about her teaching or her knowledge that might arouse suspicion.
"I've heard from my son that Damian's current swordsmanship skills are truly impeccable. I had thought Cedric was already quite skilled for his age, but to receive such praise from him is truly remarkable," Emperor Lucius commended, his words carrying warmth and admiration.
"It is an honor, Your Majesty," Seraphine replied humbly, her cheeks flushed with a blush in response to the emperor's kind words.
"Therefore, I have a favor to ask of you, Seraphine. Could you assist in teaching swordsmanship to Cedric as well?" the emperor requested.
The emperor's request caught Seraphine by surprise. She hadn't anticipated that the ruler of the empire would ask for such a favor from her.
"Your Majesty, I'm uncertain whether I can guide the Crowned Prince as effectively as Damian, given their capabilities might differ. Thus, May I have time to consider this request first?"
Seraphine responded with the utmost respect, her anticipation heightened as she awaited the emperor's reaction. However, he did not appear angered or disappointed. Instead, there was understanding in his eyes, and he did not press the matter further.
"That's perfectly fine. There's no rush with this request. Take your time," the emperor replied warmly, his kindness surpassing Seraphine's expectations.
The meeting continued into the evening, and as night fell, exhaustion settled upon everyone. They were ready to bring the meeting to a close.
Seraphine leaned back in her chair, stretching her tired muscles, and noticed Iris, who seemed quite drowsy as well.
"Miss Iris, do we need to use that dimensional rift again to return?" Seraphine inquired.
"No, we were already in the imperial castle from the beginning. There's no need to use it again," Iris responded. Her words left Seraphine puzzled.
"Miss Iris, are you saying that we've been in the same castle since I woke up today?" Seraphine sought clarification.
"That's correct," Iris confirmed, fixing her gaze on Seraphine.
"Then why did we keep using the dimensional rift repeatedly?" Seraphine voiced her confusion, finding it illogical to rely on such magic if they had been in the same castle all along.
"I was just too impatient to wait, Seraphine," Iris retorted with a smug tone, which left Seraphine somewhat disgruntled.
"Unbelievable..." Seraphine muttered under her breath, bemused by Iris's impatience.