As the ship docked, Ari leaned over the bulwark, taking in the breathtaking view of Valkrath. From this vantage, the capital of the Likaon Coast sprawled across the hillside, its distinct sharp-roofed towers rising like sentinels above the bustling streets. The brick-layered commercial buildings crowded close to the wharfs, with their intricate archways and wrought-iron balconies, each shop sign swaying lightly in the coastal breeze. On a hill behind the city loomed the Citadel, a massive fortress of black stone shaped in an imposing, nearly perfect cube, its dark surface absorbing the sunlight as if it were carved from shadow. This was where she would finally meet Kreaton.
The moment the ship's hull kissed the docks, sailors sprang into action, unloading crates and supplies with practised precision. Amidst the organised chaos, Mr. Arashika approached, his usual stern expression softened by a rare look of concern. His two guards flanked him, both silent and disciplined, casting watchful eyes over the crowd.
"How do you feel, young lady?" he asked, his voice low but sincere.
Ari glanced at him, her gaze briefly flicking back to the Citadel in the distance. "I'm fine. Really. No need to worry," she replied, her tone steady despite the lingering anxiety in her eyes. "I'll meet with Kreaton and do my part."
Arashika gave a subtle nod, pausing as if weighing his next words. "You don't need to be ashamed of feeling uneasy. We all have moments of doubt," he said quietly. "But remember, we're here for a purpose. They don't care how we feel - only what we accomplish."
Ari let a small smile escape, a glimmer of relief washing over her face. "It's comforting to know I'm not the only one who feels this way."
With a sombre nod, Arashika and his guards disembarked, merging into the lively streets of Valkrath. Ari turned to Samuel and Frost, who stood nearby with watchful eyes. Samuel, the easygoing one, was fidgeting with his sword's leather strap, a casual smile playing at his lips. Frost, however, wore a serious expression, his gaze steady and protective as he scanned the surroundings.
"Are you two ready?" she asked, trying to exude confidence.
"Couldn't be more," Frost replied with a firm nod. Samuel grinned, shrugging. "Shouldn't we be asking you that, Princess?"
The trio descended onto the docks, moving through the maze of sailors, vendors, and fishermen. The salty tang of the sea mixed with the heady scent of spices and oils drifting from nearby market stalls. Passing the docks, they entered a bustling marketplace. Craftsmen displayed their goods under brightly coloured awnings, their wares ranging from intricate jewellery to finely honed weapons and beautifully carved wooden furniture. Children darted through the crowd, their laughter mingling with the bartering shouts of merchants.
Ari slowed her pace, her gaze drawn to the vibrant displays and the intricate details in every crafted item. Frost, always focused, frowned, clearly eager to keep her on task. But Samuel seemed to be enjoying himself, his eyes casually trailing the marketplace attractions, lingering on passing merchants and the occasional flirtatious glance from local girls.
They stopped beside a fountain, its cool waters glistening in the sunlight as the sound of splashing offered a momentary reprieve from the city's noise. Frost's patience finally wore thin.
"We were supposed to head straight to the Citadel," he said, a hint of impatience edging his tone.
Ari sighed, rolling her eyes. "Can't you just enjoy the city a little? The meeting isn't going anywhere. Samuel, what do you think?"
Caught off guard, Samuel scratched his head, flashing a sheepish grin. "Well, I have to admit, I'm enjoying this a bit," he said, his eyes glinting as they followed the passing figures. "There's…a lot of beautiful sights here."
Ari's expression shifted immediately, her eyes narrowing as she gave him a disappointed look. "Fine, Frost. You win. Let's go to the Citadel."
As they turned toward the path up the hill, Samuel leaned closer to Frost, his voice lowered. "Did I say something wrong? She changed her mind so fast."
Ari's ears, ever sharp, caught his words. "I thought you were enjoying the city with me," she remarked, her voice cold, "not getting distracted by 'beautiful sights.' Why do men always have to be like this?"
Frost rolled his eyes, shooting Samuel an exasperated look as he nudged him forward. "He's special." he muttered, gesturing to the city's uphill path.
As they prepared themselves, gathering both their mental fortitude and physical strength to ascend the hill to meet Kreaton in the Citadel, they were unexpectedly interrupted by a soft voice.
"Excuse me."
Ari turned to find a young kitsune girl standing there, her delicate fox-like ears twitching with curiosity, and her fluffy tail swaying behind her. Her bright amber eyes widened as she gazed at Ari, a look of pure admiration lighting up her youthful face.
"Wow!" the girl exclaimed, her hands clasped together in awe. "What a beautiful girl you are! And a kitsune… just like me! You can't be from around here. Are you a tourist?"
Ari tilted her head slightly, her expression soft but guarded. "Kinda. We're not staying here for long."
"Where are you from? The Theocracy, by any chance?" the girl asked eagerly, her words coming quicker with each passing moment.
"Indeed, we are from the Theocracy," Ari replied with calm composure.
At this, the young girl brought her hands together in a quick prayer, her face shining with reverence. "You see, there aren't many kitsune here anymore, so it's rare to see any of our folk. Do you know the city, or are you first-timers?" Her energy seemed boundless as she took a step closer to Ari with each word.
Ari hesitated, but before she could answer, Frost leaned in and whispered firmly, "You said we're going."
"We are," Ari whispered back, a glint of mischief in her eye. "But having a guide wouldn't hurt, right?" She turned back to the girl with a disarming smile. "We're first-timers, and we need to get to the Citadel. Could you help us?"
"I can!" the girl chirped, her tails flicking with excitement. "No problem at all! But before that, you have to visit Hirako's shrine. It's just a short detour!"
"Ari…" Frost muttered, his tone a mix of frustration and pleading.
"I'm the heir of the High Priestess," Ari whispered firmly. "Visiting Hirako's shrine is one of my duties."
Frost sighed, recognizing defeat, and resigned himself to the detour. Samuel, ever the quiet observer, followed without complaint. The young kitsune girl practically skipped ahead, leading them through the winding streets of Valkrath.
The shrine was a small yet tranquil sanctuary, nestled atop an open rooftop overlooking the bustling city. Surrounding it were carefully tended flower beds, though the blossoms remained stubbornly closed, waiting for spring. At the centre of the shrine stood a weathered stone pillar supporting a modest wooden canopy, beneath which rested the statue of Hirako.
Ari approached the shrine with quiet reverence, the young kitsune girl by her side. Frost and Samuel remained two steps behind, standing guard in respectful silence.
The weather shifted as they stood there, a light drizzle beginning to fall. Unbothered by the rain, Ari stepped closer to the statue, her gaze tracing the delicate details of the carving. Hirako was depicted as a nine-tailed kitsune, draped in a thick woollen coat. Her hands were pressed together in a gesture of prayer, her rosary draped gracefully over her fingers. Her eyes were closed, her expression serene. Cascading locks of stone-carved hair flowed down her back, and her nine tails were gathered closely together, symbolising unity and strength.
"Beautiful, isn't it?" the young kitsune girl asked, her voice soft with pride.
"It is," Ari replied, her tone thoughtful. "But it's different from how we depict her in the Theocracy. There, she's shown in light gowns, her ears upright, and her tails spread wide in all directions. It gives her an air of energy and action."
The girl's face lit up as she explained, "My father carved this statue. This was his vision of her - as the radiant mother of our race, bringing light and calm to our lives."
Ari smiled, impressed by the devotion reflected in the statue. She offered a silent prayer, her lips moving in words only Hirako could hear.
As the rain stopped, a sense of calm settled over the shrine, the kind that only sacred spaces could invoke.
"I will lead you to the Citadel," the young kitsune girl declared with cheerful confidence. Her demeanour shifted abruptly, her vibrant energy bubbling over as she added, "But what kind of tour would it be if we didn't stop by an inn to try some local food first?"
Ari chuckled softly, her warm smile hinting at approval. Frost, however, groaned under his breath. "We don't have time for-"
"It's settled," Ari interrupted, ignoring Frost's objections. She gave a playful shrug before addressing the girl. "Lead the way."
Frost sighed, reluctantly falling in step, while Samuel trailed behind them silently, as he always did. They descended the steps of the shrine, its peaceful aura fading as the narrow alleys of Valkrath enclosed them once more.
As they rounded a corner, the lively atmosphere shifted suddenly. A shadowy figure stood in the middle of the alley, shrouded in a black cloak. The figure's presence was foreboding, an unnatural stillness radiating from it.
"Stay back," Frost muttered sharply, stepping in front of Ari and the girl. Samuel mirrored the movement, his hand gripping the hilt of his sword.
The cloaked figure shifted, taking a deliberate step forward. Beneath the hood, no features could be seen, only a void of shadow. Frost opened his mouth to demand its identity, but before he could utter a word, the figure spoke in a low, cold voice.
"You, girl." A slender, pale arm emerged from the folds of the cloak, its bony finger pointing directly at the young kitsune girl. "I know who you are. You are Omerta."
The girl froze as if struck by lightning. Her vibrant confidence evaporated in an instant, replaced by wide-eyed terror. Her hands trembled, and sweat beaded on her brow despite the cool rain.
"Run," the figure hissed, the word cutting through the air like a blade. "Run, or it will get ugly."
The girl hesitated, her body paralyzed as her instincts battled with fear. The figure remained still, an impenetrable wall between her and safety.
"Go!" the voice barked, sharp and commanding. "I won't stab you in the back."
The girl jolted into motion, darting forward with a desperate burst of speed. She dashed past the figure, her steps echoing in the narrow alley. True to its word, the figure didn't move. Ari and the others watched as the girl turned the corner and disappeared from sight, her presence vanishing as abruptly as it had arrived.
Frost's voice was a growl as he stepped forward, his sword halfway drawn. "Who are you? What's the meaning of this?"
The figure lowered its hood in a deliberate motion, revealing the face beneath. It was a young human woman, her dark hair tied back in a loose ponytail. Her smooth features were marred by faint scars, and her piercing brown eyes locked onto Frost's with unyielding intensity.
"You can put your swords away," she said calmly, her voice steady and unafraid. "I'm not here to harm you."
Neither Frost nor Samuel moved. Their hands stayed firmly on their weapons, distrust clear in their stances.
"What just happened?" Ari asked, stepping forward despite the tension, her tone sharper than usual.
The woman's gaze shifted to Ari, her expression softening slightly. "That girl - the one with you - was Omerta, a mercenary hired by an influential warlord from the Tundra. A man known only as Baron."
"Omerta?" Ari echoed, her brows furrowing.
"A hunter," the woman clarified, her tone grave. "Her target? Kitsune girls like you. Had I not intervened, she would have captured you to be sold into slavery under Baron's command. And these two," she gestured briefly at Frost and Samuel, "would likely be dead."
The weight of her words hung in the air. Frost's grip on his sword loosened slightly, but his glare didn't waver. Samuel exchanged a wary glance with him before slowly lowering his weapon.
Ari stepped closer, her eyes narrowing as she studied the stranger. "You were watching us and now protected me from her. You know who I am, right?"
"I do," the woman replied without hesitation. "Rosviel's younger daughter. And you might know me as well."
Ari's expression shifted from suspicion to curiosity. "Who are you?"
"My name is Kali," the woman said, her lips curving into a faint smile. "I'm from Mushoku Village."
Samuel stiffened at the name, leaning toward Frost to whisper, "Mushoku… isn't that-"
Ari answered before he could finish. "The village that served as the Theocracy's trump card years ago. They trained the best spies and assassins."
"Exactly," Kali said, crossing her arms. "But we can talk about history later. I have a request."
Ari's eyes narrowed. "A request?"
"Mushoku Village is divided," Kali explained. "Some wish to remain independent, while others want to reestablish ties with the Theocracy. I belong to the latter. Spread this information to your mother and the cardinals. Let them know there are still those who are loyal."
Ari considered the request carefully, then nodded. "I'll tell them. You have my word."
Kali's smile grew wider, and she turned to leave. "Thank you, Princess. That's all I ask."
"Wait!" Ari called after her. "Would you join us? Maybe grab something to eat at the inn?"
Kali shook her head. "I'm in a bit of a hurry, just like you. My little brother's in town, and I need to see him."
Without another word, Kali turned and walked away, her departure ordinary in contrast to her arrival. The group stood in silence, each lost in their thoughts.
Finally, Samuel broke the stillness. "She just… walked away?"
"What's wrong with that?" Frost asked, raising a brow.
"Well," Samuel muttered, "she's a ninja, isn't she? Shouldn't she have used a smoke bomb or something?"
Frost scratched his chin thoughtfully. "When you put it that way…"
"Enough," Ari interjected, shaking her head. "Let's focus on getting to the Citadel."
Frost smirked, falling in step beside her. "Finally ready to face Kreaton, huh?"
Ari gave a faint smile but said nothing, her mind already focused on the task ahead.
Ari and Frost led the way, their pace steady and determined, while Samuel trailed behind, his steps more sluggish. Retracing their path from the shrine to the main street was straightforward, but once there, they were once again caught in the vibrant chaos of Valkrath's bustling crowds. Merchants shouted their wares, street performers drew gatherings, and the colourful stalls practically begged for attention. Yet this time, Ari resisted the distractions, her resolve firm as she marched toward the Citadel.
The Citadel loomed high above, its imposing silhouette perched atop a steep hill. The climb was arduous, the incline testing even the hardiest of travelers. Frost reached the summit first, sweat gleaming on his forehead as he stood tall, hands planted firmly on his hips. His chest rose and fell with deep breaths, though he maintained a calm expression as he turned to Ari.
"I have to…praise you, Ari…for making it…to the top…without a break," he managed to say between breaths.
Behind him, Samuel was in far worse shape, bent over with his hands on his knees, panting heavily. His armour seemed to weigh him down as much as his exhaustion. Ari, standing beside Samuel, was slumped over him, draping her arms and head across his back in shared exhaustion, too drained to respond.
Frost glanced at Samuel and smirked. "But you, Sam…you should do better…for a soldier. When we get back…we're going to train."
Samuel groaned, still catching his breath. "Ari had it easier - she doesn't wear armour," he muttered defensively.
Frost's grin turned sharp. "You had it easier, you moron! She's a noble; you're a guard. What's your excuse for being half-dead?"
"I think we all did just fine," Overwhelmed by exhaustion, Ari collapsed onto her back on the cool grass, and with a shared groan of defeat, Frost and Samuel joined her, taking a brief but much-needed respite under the open sky.
Some time had passed, and Ari sat up, brushing stray grass from her hair. Gesturing toward the Citadel, still a fair distance away. "Besides, did you notice those figures in front of it?"
Frost stood up and turned his attention to the Citadel's entrance, squinting against the sunlight. Two figures were visible even from where they stood, silhouetted against the grand gates.
"One looks like…a maid?" Frost guessed, his brow furrowing. "I can't tell you about the other one."
"I noticed them earlier," Ari said, standing and brushing herself off. "That second figure walked out as we arrived at the base of the hill. She's been waiting there since."
"Maybe they're a welcoming party," Samuel offered, lying flat on the grass and stretching his leg with a groan.
Ari and Frost exchanged looks, their eyes widening in disbelief. Frost let out an exaggerated sigh, then reached down and hauled Samuel to his feet by the arm.
"We've been lying here while they've been waiting for us this whole time," Ari muttered. "Such a disgrace." ,placed her hands over her cheeks, her expression mortified as they hurried toward the Citadel. "What a shameful first impression."
Frost shook his head with a sigh but couldn't help smirking. "Let's just hope they're more patient than we deserve."
As they approached the Citadel, their suspicions were confirmed - standing before the grand front doors were two women. One, as Frost had guessed, appeared to be a maid, dressed neatly in a simple uniform. The other was a young Likaon girl adorned in an elegant, richly embroidered dress. Her ears perked up, and her tail wagged excitedly as she clapped her hands and descended the steps to greet Ari.
"You're as beautiful as they said!" she exclaimed, her admiration genuine and unrestrained.
Ari bowed politely, with Frost and Samuel following suit a second later. The girl and the maid mirrored their gesture with equal formality.
"I'm Arianna Rosviel," Ari introduced herself, her voice measured and composed. She gestured toward her companions. "These are my guards, Samuel," she said, pausing briefly, "and Frost."
The girl's face lit up with a smile. "It's an honourI to meet you and your noble guards." She then turned slightly and motioned toward the maid, who stood two steps above her. "This is the head maid of the Citadel, Mariselle." Finally, with an elegant sweep of her hand, she introduced herself. "And I am Iselda, Kreaton's younger sister. You, Ari, will meet with me to discuss the marriage arrangements."
Ari returned the smile, though a flicker of confusion crossed her face. "Kreaton won't meet with me?"
Iselda waved her hand gracefully, gesturing for them to enter as Mariselle opened the Citadel's grand doors. "Let's discuss it inside; it's far too windy out here." She shivered slightly, her thin arms displaying faint goosebumps from the chill.
Ari walked shoulder to shoulder with Iselda into the vast Citadel barracks, while Mariselle led the way. Frost and Samuel followed closely behind, their eyes scanning the surroundings with practised vigilance.
Inside, the grand entrance hall unfolded before them, an opulent space adorned with imposing portraits and intricate statues. Red carpets stretched across the polished stone floor, and the flickering glow of standing torches and candle sconces bathed the hall in a warm, golden light. The atmosphere was both regal and steeped in history, its grandeur hinting at the power and legacy housed within these walls.
As they followed the head maid through the halls of the Citadel, the sound of their footsteps echoing softly off the stone walls. Ari broke the silence, her voice calm but curious.
"So, going back to my question, I won't meet Kreaton today?"
Iselda let out a heavy sigh, her cheeks flushing a deep crimson. "Such a shame," she murmured, before stopping in her tracks and bowing deeply to Ari. "My deepest apologies. Kreaton is not in Valkrath today."
Ari blinked in surprise at the unexpected declaration, her instincts urging her to return the courtesy with a polite bow. "I see. He must have left for something important, then."
"Well… about that…" Iselda hesitated, her words trailing off as she exchanged a glance with Mariselle.
"How shall we proceed, Miss?" Mariselle inquired smoothly, breaking the tension.
Iselda straightened and clasped her hands together, her expression brightening. "Right! I've been thinking about your stay here and came up with a plan. Since you've endured several days on the open sea - evident in more ways than one - and your noble guards are clearly disciplined, focused, and as vigilant as any of ours, I think they deserve a proper meal to experience our local delicacies in the kitchen."
Frost's voice cut through the suggestion like ice. "We won't leave the Princess' side. Not for a moment." The steel in his tone was unfamiliar to Ari, and she turned to meet his gaze.
"You will," Iselda replied matter-of-factly, her composure unwavering. "Because in the meantime, we three will enjoy a bath." Frost's eyes darted to Ari for confirmation.
"I could use a bath," she admitted with a small smile, her tone gentle yet persuasive. "And you haven't eaten in a while. This is the Citadel; you can trust the security here. Eat and rest a little. You'll join me later."
Samuel's cheeks flushed at the suggestion, while Frost released a resigned sigh. "Fine then," he muttered, though his reluctance was palpable.
Mariselle summoned another maid, instructing her to escort the guards to the kitchen where they could savor the local cuisine and drinks. As Frost and Samuel reluctantly departed, Ari followed Iselda and Mariselle toward the bathhouse.
They entered a warm, inviting changing room, its wooden walls layered with polished panels. Fluffy carpets cushioned their steps, and mirrors reflected their forms from every angle. The three women undressed, leaving their clothes neatly folded in baskets, and for a moment, Ari and Iselda lingered in front of the mirrors. They examined themselves, perhaps out of habit or curiosity, before moving on.
Mariselle handed each a towel as they approached the next chamber. Ari stepped forward and gasped softly at the sight before her. The bathhouse was magnificent: its floors and walls were lined with gleaming white ceramic tiles, and marble statues stood elegantly at intervals, holding pots from which water trickled continuously. Hot steam filled the air, swirling above a large, inviting pool of water.
They began by washing themselves thoroughly, sitting on small stools with sponges in hand. The task was almost meditative as Ari and Iselda worked on their delicate skin and fur. Mariselle assisted Iselda, scrubbing her back with practised ease. Once finished, the head maid turned her attention to Ari, who stiffened slightly at the unexpected help.
Unused to communal bathing, Ari hesitated but soon allowed Mariselle to assist, gradually relaxing into the rhythm of the maid's careful ministrations. However, when Mariselle reached for her tail, a ripple of sensitivity coursed through Ari's body. She instinctively grabbed her tail, cradling it protectively, her cheeks flushed from more than just the heat of the bath.
Mariselle, perceptive and respectful, offered an understanding smile and stepped back. With a quiet sigh, Ari began to groom her tail, the steam enveloping her as she worked. Her movements were slow and deliberate, her fingers running through the soft fur with care. The warmth of the water soothed her muscles, and despite her initial unease, she found herself enjoying the moment, even taking pride in the meticulous care she gave to her most distinctive feature.
After Iselda and Ari finished their bath, Mariselle, still immersed in her own cleaning, was also given some help by the two women. Laughter filled the air as they worked together, sharing light-hearted moments that eased the atmosphere. Once all three of them were thoroughly cleaned, they sank into the pool of hot water, the warmth enveloping them. With towels draped over their heads, they leaned back, breathing deeply, and letting the steam soothe their tired muscles.
"I truly think it's a shame, Ari," Iselda said with a heavy sigh. "My brother... He's a pain in my neck. Someday, he's going to drive me crazy." She looked at Ari, a sad expression on her face. "He's not occupied with anything important. I told him he needed to be here, made him wait for you, but yesterday, out of nowhere, he decided to go hunting and partying with his crew. Before I could stop him, he was already gone. I'm sorry, Ari."
Ari shook her head gently. "Don't apologise to me. That wasn't your fault."
Iselda let out a soft laugh but it lacked humour. "I feel like it is. As he's technically a warlord, but I end up doing most of his work. I feel responsible."
"Was he always like that?" Ari asked, genuinely curious.
Iselda submerged herself deeper into the water, letting it reach up to her chin. "You mean irresponsible, eager, volatile? I wish I could say no, but... I don't remember a time when he wasn't like that." She sighed and tilted her head back, the water lapping at her neck. "He was always a gifted child, father was blinded by his potential, and mother never had control over him."
She came up from the water, wiping her eyes and pointed ears with a towel before offering Ari a hopeful thumbs up. "Still I believe that, together, we can help him become better, don't you?"
Ari smiled softly, but her mind was preoccupied with thoughts of her future husband.
"And you?" Ari asked, turning her attention to Mariselle. "What do you think about him?"
Mariselle, eyes closed, remained silent for a moment before speaking. "I'd rather not answer such questions," she said quietly. "He's my master, and I'm his maid, after all."
Ari didn't push the matter further but couldn't help but notice the faint blush that coloured Mariselle's cheeks.
"So, it must be really hard to be his sister," Ari said, her thoughts still occupied with the situation. "There were only you two who could control him."
Iselda tilted her head to the side as she processed what Ari had said.
"Three, actually," she corrected with a soft smile. "Beside me and mom there is also our younger sister, Liriel. She was so eager to meet you, but when I went to welcome you, I somehow lost track of her."
Ari's eyes widened in surprise. She hadn't known Kreaton had a second sister.
"I'm sure you'll meet her today. She really wanted to meet her future sister-in-law," Iselda continued, beaming. Ari returned the smile and nodded in agreement.
Soon after, the three of them left the bath, dried off, and dressed. As they exited the bathroom, Ari glanced around, searching for Frost and Samuel, but neither could be seen.
"They should be on their way. It's probably best if we meet them in the conference room," Mariselle suggested, taking the lead.
Ari agreed, and with Iselda, they proceeded to the conference room. As they passed through the hallways and climbed the stairs to the third floor, Ari's thoughts lingered on what she had learned about Kreaton from both his sister and the maid. Though the picture of him was becoming more nuanced and somewhat approachable, the captain's stern warning about Kreaton aboard the ship still weighed heavily on her mind.
"Is something wrong?" Iselda suddenly asked, stopping mid-step and looking at Ari closely.
"What?" Ari answered, startled. Disoriented, she quickly shook her head. "No, it's nothing."
A peal of joyous laughter broke the tension.
"Young lady," Mariselle said with a raised brow, glancing ahead.
Ari and Iselda turned their gaze forward to see a young girl at the end of the hallway. Dressed in a charming little gown and clutching a teddy bear, the child ran toward them.
"Liriel, you should first greet - " Iselda began, but her words were cut short as Liriel leapt into Ari's arms.
Ari welcomed her enthusiastically, smiling as she embraced the energetic girl. However, it wasn't long before Liriel's weight became a challenge, and Ari gently set her back down.
"Ari! Ari! You're Ari, right?" Liriel exclaimed, her wide eyes sparkling with excitement as she held onto Ari's hands.
"It's Arianna Rosviel, Liriel," Iselda interjected with a sigh. "You should greet her properly before jumping on her like that."
Despite the scolding, Liriel giggled and beamed up at Ari, entirely unbothered.
"You shouldn't welcome visitors like this," Mariselle chimed in, joining Iselda's lecture.
"You're both wrong!" Liriel declared, puffing out her chest. "She's my sister too, so I can hug her and call her by name!"
Ari chuckled softly, nodding. "Well, not yet, but we will be sisters soon. So, you must be the Liriel I've heard so much about."
Liriel's eyes sparkled with excitement. "What did big brother say about me?" she asked eagerly.
Ari's expression dimmed briefly as the realisation hit her - she hadn't actually met Kreaton yet. But she quickly recovered. "Not your brother, but your sister and Mariselle have told me about you. How clever and adorable you are."
As Ari gently patted Liriel's head, the girl's ears and tail swayed back and forth with glee.
"Alright, alright." Iselda swooped in, lifting her younger sister. "Go play somewhere else for now."
"No! No! No!" Liriel protested, squirming in her sister's grasp. "I want to play now! With Ari!"
"You can't, not yet. You'll have to wait until we're done," Iselda said firmly. Liriel quieted down but remained sulky until Iselda added, "After we're finished, you can play with Ari - if she agrees."
Liriel's mood shifted in an instant. She gazed intently at Ari, her eyes brimming with hope. "Will we play later?"
Ari smiled warmly. "Yes, we will."
At that, Liriel squealed with joy, bouncing on her toes before darting off down the hall.
"What a girl," Mariselle murmured, shaking her head.
"I'm so sorry about her behaviour," Iselda said, bowing apologetically.
"There's no need for that," Ari assured, waving her hand dismissively. "I don't mind her behaviour - it was adorable."
"I'm glad to hear it." Iselda smiled and gestured ahead. "Shall we continue then?"
All three continued their walk toward the conference room. When they arrived, Mariselle opened the grand double doors, revealing a room with an atmosphere of solemn authority.
The main section was spacious yet dimly lit, with heavy drapes that allowed only slivers of natural light to filter through. The centrepiece was a long, imposing table made of dark, polished wood, surrounded by high-backed leather chairs that gleamed faintly in the muted light. The walls were clad in wood panels, their rich mahogany tones giving the room a stately and almost sombre feel. At the back stood tall bookshelves filled with thick tomes, interspersed with glass cabinets displaying ornate artefacts. Two marble statues flanked the entrance, their classical features illuminated by warm golden light from the chandelier above, which cast a subdued glow rather than a dazzling brilliance.
Iselda passed Ari, who lingered, her gaze lingering on the intricately carved mouldings that adorned the room's ceiling. "Follow me; we'll talk in the adjoining section," Iselda said before disappearing around a corner.
Mariselle waited behind Ari, who seemed momentarily absorbed in the room's grandeur. Once satisfied, Ari followed Iselda into the second section.
This smaller room exuded an even more intimate and personal atmosphere, akin to a private study. The walls were lined with more bookshelves, but here they were interrupted by framed paintings of past figures, their stern visages watching over the room. A large, ornately carved desk with golden accents dominated the space, paired with a plush leather chair that commanded respect. In front of the desk was a low, circular tea table made of the same dark wood, flanked by two deep, cushioned sofas in muted green tones. The lighting was soft and warm, provided by a standing brass lamp with an opalescent glass shade and a smaller crystal chandelier overhead. The faint scent of old paper and polished wood lingered in the air, adding to the room's timeless elegance.
Iselda pulled an additional chair from a corner and placed it opposite her desk for Ari before collapsing into her own chair with a theatrical sigh.
"Too much walking," she groaned, her tone both playful and weary. Then, as if suddenly impatient, she added, "Shall we get this over with?"
Ari instinctively reached for her bag, expecting to retrieve the documents they needed - but her hand met empty air.
"I forgot," Ari muttered, startled. "I gave my bag to Frost. All the papers are in there."
Iselda stretched out in her chair, then stood up reluctantly. "Well, let's go find them, then."
"Shouldn't they already be here?" Ari asked, rising to her feet.
"They should," Iselda replied, frowning slightly. "I don't know what's taking them so long."
When they returned to the main section of the conference room, Mariselle was no longer present, as per Iselda's earlier instruction to leave them alone for their discussion. The hallway outside was eerily quiet.
As they began walking back, Ari suddenly stopped, clutching her chest as a strange, sharp pain radiated through her heart. A wave of heat surged over her, making her entire body tense.
"Ari?" Iselda called out, concern evident in her voice.
Before Ari could respond, her surroundings began to distort. The floor and ceiling cracked and started crumbling in slow motion. Iselda, the long table, the chairs, the marble statues - all seemed to fall away into an abyss. A searing flash of light engulfed her vision, blinding her completely.
And then, nothing.