After the scare everyone had experienced, Aura led Adonis to his room, recommending he rest deeply to recover his strength. Despite the tension still hanging in the air, Kal felt a glimmer of hope upon realizing his spiritual connection still existed, though fragile. Motivated by this revelation, he returned to the place of meditation, determined to reconnect with his spiritual sanctuary, seeking to fully reestablish that precious link.
Meanwhile, the rest of the group was immersed in a reflective silence, shocked by the intensity of the events. Draka, in turn, was particularly restless. She desperately wanted to discover if she possessed abilities that could help her find and save her mother, but at the same time feared it might be an illusion. The possibility of not having been tested by Adonis, now that he was incapacitated, left her frustrated and anxious.
Yorin and Sahara took advantage of this moment of quiet to talk to Eron and Ninea. They offered the two the opportunity to return home, now that it was clear they had no ties to the lineage of the ancient kings of Tenai, which in theory put them outside Saladon's soldiers' direct interest. Eron, with surprising maturity for his age, replied that, despite the lack of blood ties, there was no guarantee they would be safe if they returned. He argued that, given the circumstances of their previous separation from their families, nothing prevented them from being captured again, or even facing worse fates. So they decided that for now they would remain where they were, seeking security in the union and new family they were forming together.
Hadon's house, even with recent events, maintained an air of tranquility and mystery. While Adonis rested, regaining his energy after having intensely used his ability, Aura led the group through the house's corridors. She showed the different rooms, each uniquely decorated, reflecting the varied interests of the residents.
Outside, where Kal continued his meditation, Sahara approached silently. With an expression of admiration, she observed the outsider, whose internal struggle and the mysterious connection he still maintained with his spirit fascinated her. Meanwhile, not far away, Markel observed the scene, feeling a growing sadness and jealousy as he realized Sahara's interest in Kal. He averted his gaze, internally struggling with his unrequited feelings.
Yorin, ever the charmer of the bunch, tried to lighten the tense atmosphere with his gallant ways, especially around Arphaxad. But Aura, knowing him well, interrupted his attempts, sending him on his morning rounds and telling him to set aside attempts at flirting. She wanted to ensure everyone felt comfortable and safe, and Yorin's lighthearted presence could be too much at that moment.
"Let's see the garden where we cultivate our herbs and flowers," proposed Aura, guiding the group outside, trying to bring a bit of normality and showing that life went on, despite recent revelations and challenges faced. The garden was a space filled with colors and scents, where each plant had its story, many of which were linked to the traditions and culture of the ancient kings of Tenai, enthusiastically shared by Aura.
Aura guided the group through the lavish gardens of the property, explaining the care and dedication Yorin and Sahara gave to that place. The warning to never hurt the flowers on pain of awakening Sahara's wrath was given in a joking tone, but everyone perceived there was a serious truth behind those words.
Next, Aura took them to her personal workshop, a space full of metal pieces, construction plans and various inventions. "This is my refuge; this is where I do my art," she explained, showing several prototypes that facilitated the group's daily life. Arphaxad, Draka and Ninea were impressed with the creations, while Eron noticed, hidden among the plans, drawings of weapons and combat devices, which piqued his curiosity about the real role of those inventions in defending the place.
Finally, Aura took them to the stables, where several animals were kept, and they were warmly received by Nia, a large white dog with black marks on her ears. Nia ran to meet Aura, knocking her to the ground in an effusive greeting. "Easy, Nia! Let's introduce our visitors," said Aura as she got up, laughing. Introducing the dog to the group, she explained: "This is Nia, she helps protect our animals from predators." Charmed, everyone pet the dog, appreciating the warm friendship of the animal.
Aura's guided tour not only showed the facilities of the property, but also revealed the complexity and depth of each member's responsibilities and talents within that unique community.
Before finishing the tour of the house, Aura took Arphaxad, Draka, Ninea and the others to a room that resembled a classroom, with a blackboard and rows of chairs for students. Curious, Draka couldn't resist asking if they studied there.
"Yes," Aura replied with a smile. "Every three months, our brother Set comes to visit us. He brings gifts and teaches us many things."
Arphaxad, interested in the group's dynamics, asked if they ever left from there. Aura explained that the only one who left regularly was Adonis, who took products from the plantations, eggs and milk to sell in the capital, Zoarlath. "There is a big market there where everyone from the duchy and even outside the country comes to buy and sell. You can find everything there, even slaves."
Arphaxad still wanted to understand more about their limitations and asked why they couldn't leave more frequently. Aura sighed before responding: "Hadon forbade us from leaving, saying that if we fell into Saladon's hands, it would be our end. But you know what? We live very well here. We are very happy." Even saying this, a shadow of sadness passed over her face, perhaps revealing a hidden desire for more freedom or a less restricted life.
A few hours had passed, Aura said she had things to do and left them free to go wherever they wanted on the property. At this moment Markel ja was preparing lunch while Yorin was finishing his morning rounds.
Kal, who was still trying to access his inner sanctuary, felt frustrated because no matter how much he tried, he had no success. He then grabs the arm with the cut hand and calls out the names of Domeh and Daat in his mind, but as before, receives no response.
Sahara then noticed he had been there for hours and went up to him: "Why do you meditate so much?" she asked. "I'm trying to achieve my fullness, but it's very difficult!" Kal responded in a low voice. Sahara questions him if it was because of that he had been so quiet and silent since he arrived, or if it was because he had lost part of his arm. Kal then replies that actually since he can remember he has always been somewhat emotionless, but that since an incident he feels he has lost even more of the few emotions he had left.
Sahara listened attentively as Kal spoke of his internal struggle and the progressive loss of his emotions, a look of compassion growing in her golden eyes. "Life tests us in the harshest ways, does it not?" she said softly, sitting next to him. "But see, each of us here in Hadon's house carries our own scars and stories. You are not alone in this journey."
Kal looked at her, perceiving the sincerity in her words. Sahara continued, "You seek something that may still be there, merely obscured by the shadows of what happened. And even if it seems you've lost much, you still have much to explore within. Who knows, perhaps you'll discover new strengths."
"I hope so," Kal responded, finally allowing himself to feel some of the hope Sahara conveyed to him. The comfortable silence that followed was a moment of a new bond beginning to form between them, a mutual acknowledgment of internal struggles and the continuous search for one's own essence.
Meanwhile, Arphaxad and Draka took the opportunity to explore the gardens, marveling at the beauty and tranquility of the place. Draka, in particular, seemed lighter, as if the presence of nature lessened the weight of her concerns.
Yorin, upon finishing his rounds, joined Eron and Ninea, who were fascinated by Aura's inventions in the workshop. "She really has a gift for creating amazing things, doesn't she? Even if they don't work very well!" commented Yorin, observing a prototype that looked like a small automated mechanism.
As lunchtime approached, Hadon's property pulsated with a tranquil yet rich life, each of its inhabitants and visitors weaving the threads of their personal experiences into a complex, vibrant tapestry.
Meanwhile Felix Saladon gathered all the nobles after a long time, among them was Hadon. "Why did you call us here Saladon, do you want something?" asked a noble.
"I gathered you here to discuss political matters," said Saladon. "And what matters would those be? You know very well that we are not in the best condition to explore matters with other countries!" said Hadon.
Felix then stood up and said: "You've probably heard what happened in Nannu, the tragedy that befell that country, today it is a broken country, and as you also know, the King of Volkaron has an ancient rivalry against Nannu's royal family, and according to my spies, they will soon take advantage of Nannu's weakness to deliver the final blow."
Everyone in that room was curious to know what Saladon had in mind about this, since Nannu had become distant from the Duchy. "And what are you trying to say?" asked another noble. Felix then continued "If this event really happens, Nannu will probably be split into several pieces just like Tenai was, and if we are smart, we can benefit from this matter!"
Then Hadon quickly asks "Assuming this really happens, what makes you believe Volkaron would allow us to administer any part of it?" Felix then smiles and says "I attended the coronation of the new King of Nannu, a lost young man who clings to that broken throne by a thread, and on the return I was granted an audience with Volkaron's regent queen, it seems she is having trouble mobilizing all the lords of her country for the final war, so I offered the reinforcements of our super soldiers in exchange for certain benefits".
The nobles then smiled admiringly at Felix's cunning, while Hadon remained silent. "You always surprise us with your crazy plans Felix, right, you have the support of this council, go ahead with this plan!" finished a noble.
As Felix Saladon explained his crafty plan, Hadon observed silently, his thoughts churning with the implications of what was being discussed. The idea of benefiting from Nannu's disintegration and possibly expanding the dominion of the Great Duchy of Saladon was not something Hadon could easily accept. He knew well the human costs of such conflicts, and the idea of using the super soldiers in such a dangerous political game left him uncomfortable.
The meeting continued with the nobles enthusiastically expressing support for Felix's plan, envisioning the expansion of their own influences and powers. Felix, with a satisfied smile, thanked them for the support and began discussing the logistical details of how the soldiers would be deployed and what the initial steps in executing the plan would be.
However, Hadon felt increasingly isolated in that room. He knew he must act, but how? The weight of his conscience and the sense of duty he had to maintain higher principles of governance weighed upon him before all. At the end of the meeting, as the other nobles dispersed, full of plans and conspiracies, Hadon approached Felix.
"Felix, may I speak with you privately for a moment?" Hadon asked, his voice firm but laden with concern.
"Of course, Hadon, what troubles you?" replied Felix, still displaying a triumphant smile.
Hadon looked directly into Felix's eyes, seeking a spark of understanding or perhaps hesitation. "Felix, have you considered the long-term consequences of our actions? Not just for us, but for the people of Nannu and even for our own citizens? We are not just playing a game here; lives are at stake."
Felix kept his smile, but his eyes hardened a little. "Hadon, politics is a game of power and opportunity, as you well know, since you helped me overthrow the kings of Tenai. Nannu is weak, and if we do not take advantage, others will. Is it not our duty to ensure the best for our people?"
Hadon sighed, knowing his words would likely not change Felix's mind, but felt it was his duty to express his concerns. "And what of the super soldiers? They are not merely tools, Felix. They are men and women who are being altered, used as pawns in our ambitions."
Felix nodded, seriousness briefly replacing his usually nonchalant demeanor. "I understand your concerns, Hadon, and do not dismiss them entirely. I will consider your words, but the plan will move forward. We leaders must sometimes make difficult decisions for the greater good."
Hadon was far from convinced, but knew he had done all he could in the moment. With a respectful nod, he withdrew, his mind already beginning to formulate a way to mitigate the harms he knew would come.