The journey back to the Grand Archives was a short one. The weight of their recent confrontation with the Naja hung heavily in the air, and the group's thoughts were clouded with the enigmatic last words of the Naja leader. As they moved through the rugged terrain, the first rays of dawn began to pierce through the dense canopy, casting an ethereal glow on their path.
"We need to understand what we're dealing with," Kael said, breaking the silence. His voice was steady, but there was an undercurrent of concern. "The Naja leader's words suggest a deeper conspiracy."
Zym nodded, his eyes reflecting the dawn light. "We need to get the Eye of Naga back to Queen Melinoe and see if she has any insights. This mastermind could be anyone."
Mieza walked beside Kael, her expression pensive. "And we need to be prepared for anything. Whoever is behind this has already proven to be incredibly resourceful and dangerous."
Veridian, who had been unusually quiet, finally spoke. "We should also be cautious about who we trust. This mastermind could have allies in places we least expect."
As they approached the Grand Archives, the ancient structure loomed before them. They passed through the courtyard, now bathed in the golden light of morning, and made their way to the central chamber where Queen Melinoe awaited them.
The Queen's expression lit up with relief and joy as she saw the Eye of Naga in Veridian's hands. But when her gaze shifted to Kael, her smile widened, and her eyes sparkled with a mix of surprise and happiness. "Kael! It's been so long," she exclaimed, moving forward to embrace him. "I never thought I'd see you again."
Kael returned the embrace, a smile gracing his features. "It's good to see you too, Melinoe. It's been quite a long time."
Queen Melinoe stepped back, her expression becoming serious as she turned to the Eye of Naga. "Of course it has. You have done well," she said, her voice filled with gratitude. "But I sense that your journey has revealed more questions than answers."
Veridian placed the Eye of Naga on a pedestal, its pulsating energy casting a soft glow in the chamber. "Indeed, Your Majesty. The Naja leader spoke of a mastermind trying to create a rift between your people and the Garudas in hopes of taking back power. They stole the eye and framed the Garudas and also attacked their envoy so it would seem like the nagas did. We overheard everything from the Naja leader and interrogated him, but he took his own life rather than reveal the mastermind's identity. We believe the Najas are planning something, but we must be cautious. The traitor could be anyone."
Queen Melinoe's eyes widened in shock. "The Naja? I thought the Garudas were responsible because of the evidence presented." She paused, a mix of confusion and anger crossing her face. "This changes everything. I want the immediate arrest of every Naja involved in the theft of the Eye. We need to get to the bottom of this conspiracy. I owe the Garudas an apology, but due to the attack on their envoy, which was done by an unknown Naga, they are already on their way to start a war with us."
Kael stepped forward. "I'll speak to the Garudas and I'll fix this. Do you know anyone who could be behind this?"
Queen Melinoe sighed. "The Najas are the only faction with individuals who would seek to exploit situations like this and even steal the Eye of Naga since it wasn't the Garudas, apparently. If their aim was to hide it and frame the Garudas so we'd go to war with the Garudas, I believe they did this because they want my throne."
Zym's eyes lit up with determination. "They will not get it. We'll protect you, Your Majesty."
Mieza stepped forward, her resolve unwavering. "We'll need to be careful until we know who the mastermind is."
Kael looked at Mieza and Zym, his gaze steady. "Zym, I need you to protect the Queen. Mieza, I need you to keep an eye on Oephidia and let me know if there's anything out of the ordinary."
Veridian placed a hand on Kael's shoulder. "I can protect the Queen, Kael. You guardians may need each other if the Garuda army fails to listen to reason. You all may go to Kragnir, I'll inform you if there's any sudden development."
Queen Melinoe spoke. "He's right, Kael. You all should go. Veridian will protect me. He's my most trusted confidant."
With their new mission clear, Kael, Mieza, and Zym prepared for the journey ahead.
As they left the Grand Archives behind, the words of the Naja leader echoed in their minds, a haunting reminder of the unseen enemy that lay in wait. But their hearts were steadfast, and they were committed to going to Kragnir to resolve all the misunderstanding. They would bring peace to the realm, no matter the cost.
And so, with the first light of dawn guiding their way, Kael, Zym, and Mieza set forth on their journey, their spirits undaunted and their determination unyielding. Kragnir awaited them, and with it, the hope of stopping the Garuda army from starting the war.