The following evening, Sir Edmund stood before a tall mirror in his quarters, adjusting his attire. His reflection revealed a man of dignified bearing, his silver-streaked hair neatly combed, and his eyes carrying the wisdom of years. To most, he was the epitome of a distinguished butler. Yet beneath the reserved exterior lay a warrior of considerable might.
A discreet knock at the door drew his attention.
"Enter," he called.
A young footman stepped inside, bowing respectfully. "Sir Edmund, the duke requests your presence in the lower chamber."
"Thank you. I will attend to it immediately."
As the footman departed, Edmund took a deep breath. Another session so soon was unusual, but given the circumstances, not unexpected.
He made his way through the castle's labyrinthine passages, nodding politely to staff members who crossed his path. Reaching a concealed entrance behind a tapestry, he activated the hidden mechanism that granted access to the subterranean levels.
Descending once more into the depths, Edmund felt the familiar shift in atmosphere—the air growing cooler, the ambient magic more palpable.
Upon entering the chamber, he found Duke Raion already engaged in a series of complex movements. The duke's aura was active, tendrils of silver energy swirling around him as he practiced intricate forms.
"Edmund," Raion greeted without turning. "Join me."
"At once, Your Grace."
They began a synchronized routine, moving through stances that combined martial prowess with aura manipulation. Their movements were fluid yet precise, each gesture intentional.
"News from the north," Raion said between movements. "Father and Sir Leon have engaged a significant force of Behemoth demons."
Edmund's expression tightened. "I trust they are holding their own?"
"Yes, but the scale of the attacks is escalating. Intelligence suggests that the Crescent Shadows may be involved."
"The assassins?" Edmund asked, surprised. "I thought they were eradicated."
"As did I," Raion replied grimly. "It appears they have resurfaced, aligning themselves with darker forces."
They shifted into a defensive stance, mirroring each other. Edmund felt the energy in the room intensify.
"Ready?" Raion asked.
"Always."
They launched into a sparring sequence, their auras flaring brightly. Edmund's black and red light clashed with Raion's silver glow, creating a brilliant display of power.
Raion struck first, a swift jab augmented by a focused burst of energy. Edmund parried, redirecting the force and countering with a sweeping kick enveloped in aura. The impact sent a shockwave rippling through the chamber.
They moved with blinding speed, the sound of their clashes echoing like thunder. Each strike was a test of strength and skill, pushing them to the limits.
Raion summoned a chain of energy, whipping it toward Edmund with precision. Edmund dodged gracefully, then leaped into the air, channeling his aura into a downward strike.
Raion raised an arm, forming a shield of light that absorbed the blow. The collision unleashed a burst of energy that crackled and sparked, illuminating the chamber in stark relief.
"You're holding back," Raion accused with a hint of challenge.
"Merely being cautious," Edmund replied. "We wouldn't want to bring the castle down upon us."
Raion smirked. "Fair point. But let's see what you're truly capable of."
He extended both arms outward, and the ground beneath them began to tremble. Pillars of light erupted from the floor, encircling Edmund.
Edmund focused his mind, sensing the patterns of the energy around him. With a swift motion, he dissipated the nearest pillar, then used the residual energy to propel himself toward Raion.
They met in a fierce exchange, their auras clashing violently. The air grew heavy with the intensity of their combat, and the magical matrices embedded in the chamber walls pulsed as they worked to contain the immense power.
Sweat dripped from their brows as they continued, neither willing to relent. Edmund felt the strain but also the exhilaration of pushing his abilities.
Finally, Raion called out, "Enough!"
They parted, both breathing heavily. The chamber hummed with residual energy, and small arcs of lightning danced across the surfaces.
"That was... invigorating," Edmund admitted.
Raion nodded, a satisfied expression on his face. "You continue to impress me, Edmund. Your skill rivals that of any knight in the realm."
"I am honored by your praise, Your Grace."
Raion's demeanor grew serious. "We may soon need to reveal your true capabilities. If the threats we face escalate, having an unexpected asset could be decisive."
Edmund considered this. "I am prepared to serve in whatever capacity you require."
"Good. But for now, we maintain the façade. Let them underestimate you."
"As you wish."
Raion walked toward a side alcove where a table held pitchers of water and towels. He handed one to Edmund.
"There's something else," the duke said after a moment. "I've been corresponding with allies in the capital. The political situation is deteriorating."
"The conflict between the royal princes?" Edmund inquired.
"Yes. Their vying for power is weakening the empire. If civil war breaks out, it will leave us vulnerable on multiple fronts."
"Troubling indeed."
Raion's gaze hardened. "We must be vigilant. Protecting our family and our people is paramount."
"Agreed. I will increase security measures within the castle and discreetly assess the loyalties of the staff."
"Excellent. I trust your judgment implicitly."
They rested for a few moments, allowing their energies to settle.
"How are the children?" Raion asked, a softer tone returning to his voice.
"They are well," Edmund replied with a slight smile. "Master Raimon's presence has lifted their spirits. Edward and Guillermina are eager to show him all they've learned."
"Good. They deserve some joy in these times."
"Indeed."
Raion straightened. "I must attend to some matters with the council. Thank you for the session."
"It is always my pleasure, Your Grace."
As the duke departed, Edmund began the process of securing the chamber. He walked the perimeter, inspecting the runes and enchantments to ensure they remained intact.
Alone in the quiet, he allowed himself a moment of introspection. The path ahead was fraught with uncertainty, but he was resolute in his commitment.
Emerging from the subterranean depths, Edmund blended seamlessly back into his role as the esteemed butler. Staff members greeted him politely, unaware of the formidable power he wielded beneath the surface.
Returning to his quarters, he found a letter waiting on his desk. Breaking the seal, he recognized the handwriting of an old acquaintance—a fellow knight operating covertly within the empire.
*Edmund,
Urgent developments require your attention. Unrest is spreading faster than anticipated. Be prepared for imminent action.
Stay vigilant.
—L.*
Edmund folded the letter thoughtfully. The signs were clear: events were accelerating, and the time for subtlety might soon be over.
He penned a brief reply, signaling his readiness, and secured it with a cipher known only to a select few.
As night fell, Edmund made his rounds throughout the castle, ensuring all was in order. Passing by the library, he noticed a light still burning within.
Peering inside, he saw Raimon hunched over a desk, surrounded by books and scrolls.
"Burning the midnight oil, Master Raimon?" Edmund inquired gently.
Raimon looked up, surprised but pleased. "Sir Edmund. I didn't realize the hour had grown so late."
"Engrossed in your studies, I see."
"Yes. There's much to be done."
Edmund stepped inside. "Your dedication is admirable. But do remember to rest."
"I will," Raimon assured him. "Actually, I was just about to retire."
"Very good."
As Raimon gathered his materials, he glanced at Edmund. "Is everything alright? You seem... preoccupied."
Edmund smiled reassuringly. "Just attending to my duties. All is well."
Raimon nodded, accepting the answer. "Goodnight, then."
"Goodnight, Master Raimon."
Watching the young lord depart, Edmund felt a protective instinct stir within him. The Flower family was strong, but they would need to stand together in the trials to come.