The echoes of harsh voices and resounding steps filled the grand corridors of the palace as Prince Aragis made his way toward the Privy Chamber. His mind lingered on the events of the Harvest Ceremony, where he knew he had crossed a line. The awkward air that followed weighed on him, but it wasn't enough to deter his actions. The moment Calestia had entered the room, everything else had faded into the background—including Althea. And now, as he approached the Emperor's chamber, he couldn't help but acknowledge that he had caused more trouble than necessary. Yet, despite knowing this, a part of him simply didn't care. Althea and her feelings were secondary, mere obstacles to what he truly desired.
As the heavy oak doors to the Privy Chamber creaked open, Aragis was greeted by the sight of Emperor Vermillion IV standing by the grand window, his back turned to the room. The flickering light from the candles cast long shadows across the marble floor, but it did little to soften the stern lines on the Emperor's face as he finally turned to face his son. There was no warmth in his gaze, only the icy resolve of a ruler displeased.
"Aragis," the Emperor's voice cut through the silence like a blade, "what in the gods' name were you thinking?"
Aragis steeled himself, stepping forward with all the confidence he could muster. "Father, I only—"
"Silence!" The Emperor's hand slammed down on the polished surface of the mahogany table, making Aragis flinch. "Your treatment of Lady Althea at the Harvest Ceremony was beyond disgraceful. Do you realize the implications of your actions? Do you understand the delicate balance you've jeopardized?"
Aragis frowned, his frustration mounting. "With all due respect, Father, Althea is nothing more than—"
"She is a Brightlance!" The Emperor's voice thundered, shaking the very foundations of the chamber. "And that alone makes her more than just a woman you dislike. She represents a bond, a crucial link between our family and the Brightlance house—a link that is essential for the continued strength of the empire. Your disdain for her does not change the reality of what she represents."
Aragis clenched his fists, his nails digging into his palms. "But, Father, you know as well as I do that I never wanted her. Calestia—"
"Calestia," the Emperor interrupted, his voice suddenly cold and measured, "is too much of a risk. You think only of what you want, but as a future emperor, you must think of what the empire needs. The Brightlance family has been producing male heirs for decades, and this is the first time in generations that we have the opportunity to bind our families through marriage. But Calestia… Calestia is too powerful, too perfect. The people would rally behind her, and her dominance would overshadow even you."
Aragis's heart sank at the Emperor's words. "But she has everything the empire needs," he insisted, desperation creeping into his voice. "She is strong, capable, loved by the people—"
"And that is precisely the problem," the Emperor responded, his gaze hard and unyielding. "Calestia's strength would not only overshadow you but also the very throne itself. Her influence would eclipse ours, and soon enough, the people would see her as their true ruler. We cannot afford to have a Brightlance Empress who holds more power than the Emperor."
Aragis looked down, the weight of the Emperor's words settling heavily on his shoulders. "Then… Althea?"
"Althea is the perfect balance." the Emperor explained. "She is a Brightlance, yes, but she is also… manageable. Her presence binds their loyalty to us without the risk of them overtaking us. She may not be everything you desire in a wife, but she is exactly what the empire needs in an Empress."
The room fell into an oppressive silence, only broken by the faint crackle of the fire in the hearth. Aragis's mind raced, torn between his duty and his desires, but he knew, deep down, that his father's words held truth. He could not afford to defy the Emperor's wishes, no matter how much he despised the thought of Althea by his side.
"Yes, Father." Aragis finally said, his voice barely above a whisper. "I understand."
The Emperor nodded, his expression softening just slightly. "Good. Now, remember this; your actions not only reflect upon you but also upon the throne. Treat Althea with the respect her name commands, even if you cannot bring yourself to care for the woman behind it. The stability of the empire depends on it."
Without another word, Aragis bowed and left the chamber, the weight of his father's command pressing heavily on his heart. The tension in his muscles burned as he made his way to the training yard, desperate to rid himself of the frustration boiling within him.
As he arrived at the open space, Aragis spotted Ethan, his most trusted guard, already awaiting him. The tall, muscular man met Aragis's gaze with a knowing look, sensing the storm brewing within the prince.
"Ethan," Aragis called out, grabbing a sword from the rack, "let's spar! I need to clear my mind."
Ethan nodded, taking up a sword of his own. "As you wish, Your Highness."
The clash of steel against steel filled the air as they began their duel, each strike and parry growing more intense with each passing moment. Aragis's frustration fueled his attacks, driving him to push harder, faster, but Ethan met each blow with practiced ease. The duel was fierce, their movements a blur of speed and precision, until finally, they paused, catching their breath.
"Your Highness," Ethan said, his voice steady as he held his sword ready, "if I may speak freely?"
"Speak!" Aragis grunted, his focus still on the fight.
"Lady Althea… she's a good woman." Ethan began, carefully choosing his words. "She may not be like her siblings, but she has never caused any trouble, never brought any shame to her name or yours. I know you're angry, and I understand why, but… ruining her image will only harm your own."
Aragis's eyes flashed with anger, and he lunged forward with renewed ferocity, forcing Ethan to step back. "She stole my future with Calestia!" Aragis spat, his voice filled with venom. "She is the epitome of selfishness. If only she had stayed in the shadows where she belonged, everything would be as it should. You might claim she never caused any trouble, but that's far from the truth. She's the reason everything's falling apart. Ruining her image? What image is there to ruin?"
Ethan blocked the strike, his expression calm and unwavering. "At least Lady Althea loves you, Your Highness, and the Emperor approves of her. I know you have feelings for Dame Calestia, but from what I've seen, she doesn't share them. She sees you as a match, nothing more. She holds herself so high that, in her eyes, you're the only one worthy of her standards simply because you're the prince and the future emperor."
Aragis froze, Ethan's words cutting through his anger like a blade. He knew, deep down, that his guard was right, but the bitterness inside him refused to let go. With a frustrated growl, he swung his sword once more, forcing Ethan back.
Ethan parried the blow and then stepped back, lowering his sword. "I'm only trying to look out for you, Your Highness. Lady Althea may not be what you wanted, but she doesn't deserve to be the target of your anger. And if you ruin her, you'll ruin yourself too."
Aragis's chest heaved with the effort of their duel, his mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. He wanted to scream, to lash out, to destroy the source of his pain, but he knew that would solve nothing. Althea was now part of his life, whether he liked it or not, and the Emperor's words echoed in his mind—this was not just about him. It was about the empire.
With a final, tense clash of steel, Aragis lowered his sword, his expression hardening. He nodded to Ethan, signaling the end of their duel, though his eyes still burned with defiance. "Thank you, Ethan." he said, his tone clipped and unyielding. "But you don't understand. I won't let her trap me in this farce without consequences."
Ethan bowed his head respectfully, offering no further resistance. "I remain at your service, Your Highness."
As Aragis left the training yard, his mind churned with dark intent. Althea might be his future, but that didn't mean he had to accept it on her terms. He would find a way to make her suffer for her intrusion into his life—without causing the empire unnecessary damage. He would make sure she knew her place, without compromising his own power. His resentment festered, growing more potent with each step he took away from the yard.
----------o0o----------
In the grand living room of the Brightlance estate, the air was thick with tension. The ornate furnishings, tapestries, and chandeliers seemed to bear silent witness to the unfolding drama. Alastair stood near the center of the room, his fists clenched at his sides, his eyes ablaze with anger as he faced his elder sister, Calestia. Althea, as always, chose to distance herself from the chaos, her fingers dancing lightly over the keys of the grand piano in the corner, filling the room with a gentle, melancholic melody. It was her refuge—a way to drown out the arguments that had become all too common in their household.
"How can you be so heartless, Sister?" Alastair's voice cut through the music, raw with frustration. "You knew exactly what Prince Aragis did to Althea at the Harvest Ceremony. You've known all along how he treats her, and yet you do nothing. Worse, you stand there and pretend like it's none of your concern! Are you really enjoying this? Are you relishing in her suffering?"
Calestia, who had been standing near the fireplace, her posture impeccably straight and her expression carefully composed, narrowed her eyes at her younger brother. "Watch your tone, Alastair!" she warned, her voice cold. "This isn't about enjoyment. I have my place, and you have yours. Do you think it's easy for me? To be caught between my friendship with the Prince and my family? But it's not my business to interfere in their relationship. Althea made her choices, and now she must face the consequences."
Alastair's face twisted with disbelief. "Not your business? How can you say that? You are her sister! If you really cared, you'd have spoken to Prince Aragis—if not to stop him, then at least to temper his cruelty. Instead, you stand by as he humiliates her, time and time again. What happened to the sister who once protected us from everything? Have you become so absorbed in your own ambitions that you've forgotten what it means to be part of this family?"
Calestia's composure began to crack, her hands trembling slightly. "You speak of protection, but do you really understand what you're asking? I am not just her sister—I am a noblewoman of this empire, and my actions carry weight. If I were to involve myself in this mess, I would risk everything I've worked for, everything this family stands for. Althea knew what she was doing when she begged Father to be Aragis's partner, to be the future Empress. This is what she gets. She's not a child, Alastair. She must learn to stand on her own."
"You're mistaken." Alastair retorted, his voice laced with frustration. "Althea might have chosen her own fate, but that doesn't mean she should face it without support. What kind of family are we if we turn our backs on her in her time of need? If you were in her position, I would stand by you and fight for you, no matter the consequences. But you? You simply stand by and watch her endure this torment, you don't seem to have any intention to confront the Prince at all! If it's not for her, then do it for our Family's dignity."
The intensity of their argument had drawn the attention of their mother, Duchess Valeria, who had been quietly observing from the side, her expression a mix of concern and weariness. She stepped forward, raising a hand to silence them. "Enough, both of you!" she said, her voice firm yet soothing. "This quarrel helps no one. Alastair, you must understand that Calestia is right in one respect—she cannot interfere directly in the Prince's affairs. It would only create more complications. But Calestia, you must also recognize the pain your sister is going through. She may have made her choice, but that doesn't absolve us of our duty to support her."
As their mother spoke, Alastair's anger slowly began to ebb, though his frustration remained. Calestia, too, seemed to soften, though her expression was still guarded. "I understand, Mother," she said quietly. "But Althea must find her own way. I can't fight her battles for her and she has to learn to take responsibility to the path she had choosen."
Throughout the argument, the Duke had remained seated near the piano, his gaze fixed on Althea. She had not paused in her playing, though her expression was one of quiet resignation. The music she played was haunting, a reflection of the turmoil that roiled within her. The Duke finally spoke, his voice a deep rumble that commanded attention. "Althea," he said softly, "what do you think of all this?"
Althea's fingers stilled on the keys, the final note lingering in the air like a fading memory. She turned to face her father, her expression calm and composed, though there was a depth to her eyes that spoke of the weight she carried. "I understand the Prince, Father," she said quietly. "He's angry, and he has every right to be. But I will continue to uphold our family's honor, no matter how he treats me. I will not let his anger diminish our name."
The Duke nodded, a flicker of sadness in his eyes. "You are stronger than I ever imagined, Althea." he murmured. "But I wish you didn't have to endure this. You are the sweetest of my children, and it pains me to see you suffer so."
As the room fell into a heavy silence, a servant entered, bowing low. "My lord and lady. Dame Calestia, someone from the military came and requires your presence."
Calestia nodded, her composure fully restored. "I must go," she said, turning to leave the room without another word. Althea watched her sister's retreating figure with a small, bittersweet smile.
Once Calestia had gone, Alastair moved to stand beside Althea, wrapping an arm around her shoulders in a gesture of comfort. He pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead. "Take care of yourself, little sister," he whispered. "If you ever need help, just say the word. I'll be there."
Althea smiled up at him, her expression one of quiet gratitude. "Thank you, Alastair."
As the Duke watched his children, a thought seemed to cross his mind. Alastair, still protective of his sister, glanced at his father with a serious expression. "Father," he began, "I think it's time we assign the best and strongest guards to Althea. She'll need them, especially with everything that's happening."
The Duke nodded thoughtfully. "You have someone in mind?"
Alastair's eyes gleamed with a hint of mischief. "Yes, I do. Someone who can ensure she's protected at all costs."
Althea looked between her father and brother, confused by their sudden shift in tone. "Who are you talking about?"
Alastair merely smiled, but the Duke seemed to be considering the suggestion. "I'll think about it," he said finally, his gaze resting on Althea. "For now, let's make sure you're safe, my dear."
----------o0o----------
The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a golden hue over the sprawling estate of the Brightlance family. The air was still, save for the occasional rustle of leaves stirred by a gentle breeze. Althea walked alone through the vast flower field, her steps slow and measured as if she were in no hurry to reach her destination. The field, filled with rows upon rows of tulips in every color imaginable, was the pride of her mother, Lady Valerie. It was also the reason why the Brightlance residence was situated far from the bustling city center.
The estate wasn't just about beauty; it was also a fortress. Behind the elegance of the flower field lay the real reason for their seclusion: the Brightlance family's private military base. It was a training ground renowned across the empire, where men seeking to join the army preferred to enlist under the Brightlance banner rather than directly with the imperial forces. The reason is well-known across the empire and beyond its borders. The Brightlance name carries a legacy of unparalleled power and influence. After all, working with the Brightlance family is essentially the same as serving the empire, as their strength has always been in service to the crown.
Althea found solace in the quiet of the flower field. She wasn't particularly fond of flowers, but she cherished the peace this place offered, a refuge from the burdens that weighed heavily on her shoulders. The field was her sanctuary, a place where she could escape the endless debates and the suffocating expectations that came with being a Brightlance and now, the Crown Princess.
As she reached a secluded corner of the field, she heard footsteps behind her. Althea turned to see Calestia approaching, her older sister's expression unreadable as always. Calestia walked with the confidence of someone who knew her place in the world—firm, unyielding, and indifferent to the chaos around her.
"Enjoying the peace, Althea?" Calestia's voice was cool, lacking the warmth one might expect from a sister.
Althea offered a small smile, trying to mask the discomfort that Calestia's presence always brought. "Yes, I needed some time to think."
Calestia glanced around the field, her eyes narrowing slightly as if she could see right through Althea's attempts to hide her thoughts. "I suppose you're thinking about what happened at the Harvest Ceremony."
Althea stiffened but quickly nodded. "I understand the prince's actions. I hold no ill will toward him."
Calestia raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a thin, almost mocking smile. "Do you? Or are you just telling yourself that because you have no other choice? This is what you wished for, Althea—this engagement, this position. You wanted to be the Crown Princess, and now you must face the consequences of that decision."
Althea's voice wavered as she responded, barely above a whisper. "I know I'm not as capable as you, Sister. I don't have your strength nor your presence. Perhaps that's why I'm treated this way."
Calestia's gaze hardened, her tone sharp. "You're right. You're not like me, and you never will be. But don't mistake that for an excuse. Responsibility isn't something you can escape because it's uncomfortable. You wanted this, and now you have to endure it."
Althea flinched at her sister's words, each one cutting deeper than the last. "But you... you were never mistreated when you were seen as the future Empress."
"That's because I knew how to command respect." Calestia replied coldly. "I didn't sit around playing the victim. I made sure no one dared to treat me as anything less than what I deserved. If you can't do the same, that's on you."
Althea looked down, her heart heavy. She had always admired Calestia's strength, but now that same strength felt like a barrier, separating them in ways she hadn't fully understood until now.
Calestia studied her sister for a moment before speaking again, her voice less harsh but no less firm. "You wanted to marry the prince. Now you must learn to navigate this life. Complaining about it or feeling sorry for yourself won't change anything. Adapt, or be consumed by it."
Althea nodded, though she said nothing more.
After a short silence between Althea and Calestia, they heard the sound of approaching footsteps behind them. Simultaneously, an announcement echoed through the field, informing them of Prince Aragis' arrival.
Both Brightlance sisters bowed to the prince. Althea offered a graceful bow with her gentle demeanor, while Calestia, still clad in her military uniform from her duties that morning, greeted the prince by placing her right arm over her chest and bowing in the formal military manner.
"May I speak with you, Lady?" Prince Aragis asked, his voice firm.
Althea straightened up, smiling politely. "Yes, Your Highness."
"Not you!" he snapped, casting a sidelong glance at her, his tone dripping with mockery. "I wish to speak with Lady— Dame Calestia, and I wish to do so alone."
Althea concealed the sting of his words with a forced smile. She understood the prince's disdain all too well and quietly turned to leave the flower field, swallowing her tears. She paused for a brief moment to glance back, catching a sight that filled her with envy.
Prince Aragis was smiling, his expression gentle as he faced Calestia—an expression Althea could only dream of seeing directed at her. The prince's kindness, which he so effortlessly showed to Calestia, was something he had never shown to Althea. With a heavy heart, she continued her steps away from the field.
Once Althea was out of sight, Prince Aragis and Calestia were left alone, though the guards remained stationed at a respectful distance, their presence a silent reminder of their duty.
"What brings the Crown Prince all the way from the palace to visit me?" Calestia asked, her tone even and composed.
Aragis chuckled lightly. "Don't be so formal, Calestia. You know I always enjoy seeing you."
Calestia remained unmoved, her expression as disciplined as ever. "Thank you, Your Highness. How may I assist you today?"
Aragis's eyes narrowed slightly as he studied her. "How have things been at the military? It's been peaceful these past few years since the territorial wars ended. Your duties must be less demanding."
"Indeed, the recent years have been calm," Calestia replied. "But we must always be prepared. Peace is never guaranteed, and vigilance is essential. The military continues to train and remain ready for any threat to the empire."
Aragis nodded, though his thoughts seemed elsewhere. After a brief pause, Calestia broke the silence. "And how are the preparations for your wedding to Lady Althea progressing, Your Highness?"
The question caused a flicker of irritation to pass over Aragis's face. "Do not speak of that wretched event when it's just the two of us," he snapped, his tone icy.
Calestia merely raised an eyebrow, unfazed by his outburst. "Forgive me, Your Highness. I only wished to inquire."
Aragis's frustration deepened. "Tell me, Calestia, do you still harbor any desire to be my empress, to stand by my side as my partner? Do you ever consider doing something to prevent this marriage and make it so you are the one by my side?"
Calestia's response was measured. "I respect my father and the Emperor's decisions. My loyalty lies with the empire, whether as your empress or in my current role. I will serve the empire in any capacity I am needed, regardless of my title."
Aragis scowled, his anger simmering beneath the surface. "Althea is unfit for the role of empress. She has no capabilities—she can't even manage the simplest tasks."
Calestia's lips curved into a faint smile, though it did not reach her eyes. "Prince Aragis, you should at least have some respect for Lady Althea. She bears the Brightlance name, and that alone deserves acknowledgment."
Aragis knew there was no swaying Calestia; she was bound by duty and honor, always adhering to the rules, always performing her duties to perfection. He realized that trying to convince her otherwise was futile.
With a resigned sigh, he excused himself. "I should go. I actually have something to discuss with Althea as well."
Calestia simply nodded, watching as Aragis turned to leave, her expression unreadable. As he walked away, a deep sense of frustration and futility settled over him, knowing that neither Calestia nor the empire would ever bend to his will in the way he desired.
----------o0o----------
Prince Aragis stormed through the halls of the Brightlance residence, his mood souring with each step. His patience, already worn thin from earlier encounters, was now almost nonexistent. He didn't bother asking any of the servants where Althea might be; instead, he barged into every room he came across, his frustration boiling over. Doors were pushed open with force, his anger leaving an unmistakable mark on each threshold.
After what felt like an eternity of searching, he finally found her in a place that should have been obvious, if only he had cared enough to think about it earlier—her private library, nestled in the farthest corner of the estate. The room was almost secluded from the rest of the house, much like Althea herself. The walls were lined with books, and the large window allowed a soft, peaceful light to filter in, illuminating the space in a golden hue.
Althea was seated at a large desk, a book open before her, her eyes scanning the pages with the quiet focus that always seemed to surround her. She looked up at the sound of the door being flung open, her calm demeanor untouched by Aragis' abrupt entrance.
"Your Highness," she said softly, standing and offering a polite bow. "I didn't expect you to come here."
"Why are you hiding here?" Aragis snapped, taking a step closer. "I've been searching the entire residence for you."
"This is where I spend most of my time." Althea replied evenly. "I wasn't hiding, Your Highness. If you had asked, the servants would have directed you here."
Her indifferent tone only fueled his frustration. "You could've made it easier." he muttered under his breath, though loud enough for her to hear. But without waiting for her reply, he got to the point of his visit.
"I've come to inform you that you will be joining me at the Royal Autumn Hunt in two days. It's a requirement for someone in your position." His words were curt, almost dismissive, as if the invitation itself was more of a command.
Althea's eyes brightened, a soft smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "I would be honored to join you, Your Highness," she replied, her tone warm despite the coldness in his.
Aragis nodded, already half-turned to leave, but something held him back. He paused by the door, his hand resting on the handle as he glanced back at her. "Althea," he began, his voice more measured now, though still sharp with unspoken resentment, "why are you so insistent on this marriage? Why are you so determined to take your sister's place?"
The question hung heavy in the air, and Althea's smile faded, replaced by a sadness she quickly hid. She stood there, her hands clasped in front of her as she took a deep breath.
"I realize I overstepped my bounds." she said quietly. "But that is only because I love you, Your Highness. I know you may not see it, but I believe I can be of help to you—perhaps not in the same way Calestia could have, but in my own way."
Aragis' eyes narrowed, disbelief flashing across his face. "Help me? You think love is enough to make this work? Do you even understand the responsibilities that come with this position? You're deluding yourself, Althea. This marriage isn't about love. It's about politics, strategy. You're not what I wanted. You're not what the empire needs."
Althea's heart ached at his words, but she refused to let it show. She knew this pain well, had grown used to it. "I understand that, Your Highness. But even so, I will not step aside. I will fulfill the duty that is given to me. One day, I hope you will see that I can be of service to you, even if it's not in the ways you expect."
His anger flared again. "You really believe that?" he scoffed. "That your presence will make any difference?"
She met his gaze, her voice steady. "I do. And I will do whatever it takes to prove it."
Aragis shook his head, his expression a mix of disbelief and frustration. "You're hopeless." he muttered, turning toward the door. But just before he exited, he stopped once more, looking back at her with a mix of confusion and contempt. "Why do you keep clinging to this foolish notion? You're nothing like Calestia. You could never be like her."
Althea swallowed hard, the weight of his words pressing against her heart, but she stood her ground. "I know I'm not like her," she whispered. "But I can be something different. And I believe, one day, you'll see that too."
With a final, cold glance, Aragis turned and left the room, the door closing behind him with a soft thud. Althea stood there for a long moment, her breath shaky as she tried to compose herself. She had grown accustomed to his scorn, but each time, it cut just as deep.
She looked back at her desk, the open book before her now feeling distant, as though it belonged to someone else. Slowly, she sank back into her chair, her mind swirling with thoughts of the hunt, her relationship with the prince, and the painful reality of her situation.
----------o0o----------
As Aragis made his way back through the halls, he clenched his fists in frustration. Althea's persistence infuriated him, her calm demeanor only serving to heighten his irritation. He couldn't understand why she clung so desperately to this engagement, why she didn't just step aside and let him be with someone who was his equal—someone like Calestia.
But even as he thought of Calestia, his frustration grew. She had rejected his subtle offers to undo the arrangement with Althea, to take her rightful place by his side. Bound by her loyalty to the empire and her unwavering sense of duty, she refused to challenge the decisions that had been made. He admired her strength, but it also angered him. No matter how much he wished things were different, Calestia would never go against what was set by the Emperor.
Aragis was left with no choice but to follow through with the engagement. But as he moved through the Brightlance estate, he couldn't shake the gnawing feeling that something had to change—and if it didn't, he would make it change.
----------o0o----------
Alastair strode into the Brightlance estate's training grounds, where the clatter of swords and the steady thrum of footfalls echoed in the air. The vast space was alive with the young men of the season, all eager to learn from the best military house in the empire. Brightlance's reputation was unrivaled—its name carried a legacy of power and honor. Many had chosen to train here, though some, bound by obligations to the palace, were sent to the royal military instead, much to their own regret.
But Alastair wasn't interested in the new recruits. His steps were purposeful, focused on a different task altogether. He made his way through the bustling grounds without so much as a glance at the trainees, heading toward a less visible part of the estate—a set of stairs that led to a chamber beneath the main structure. This underground space was more than just an armory for storing swords and attire. It was a secret training ground, designed for more discreet and advanced practices.
The further Alastair descended, the darker it became, the air cool and still. He knew exactly where to go. He didn't need to search; he didn't need directions. His instincts guided him through the narrow corridors, down to the farthest corner where the shadows thickened and light barely touched.
He stopped just before the darkness consumed the rest of the room, standing at the edge where the last flicker of light reached. His voice, steady and controlled, pierced the silence.
"I have a favor to ask." Alastair said, his words directed into the black void ahead.
For a moment, there was nothing but silence. Then, a low, calm voice responded from the unseen depths.
"And what could I possibly do for you that you can't handle yourself, young lord?"
The figure remained cloaked in the shadows, unseen but present. Alastair's expression hardened, his eyes narrowing slightly as he stepped closer, but still didn't cross into the darkness.
"This is the time," Alastair replied, his tone firm, "for you to repay the life debt you owe me."
A brief pause followed, heavy with tension. And then, from the darkness, there was a sound of movement—steady, deliberate footsteps. The man stepped into the dim light, and at once, his presence was undeniable.
His appearance was striking—rough, yet undeniably handsome, with an air of strength and control about him. His skin was pale, a stark contrast to the crimson hair that framed his face like fresh-spilled blood. His sharp eyes met Alastair's, the fire in them mirroring the intensity of his demeanor.
"As you wish." the man said, his voice low but resolute.
Alastair nodded, satisfied. He knew the power this man held and the value of having him on his side. The favor was not one to be taken lightly, and the man knew it too. A silent agreement passed between them as they stood there in the dimly lit chamber, their fates intertwined by the weight of a past debt.
With a final glance, Alastair turned and left, the faintest smile playing on his lips. His plan was in motion.
----------o0o----------
To be continued.
----------o0o----------