Deep in the Imperial Palace, in a secret room known only to a few people, dim candlelight cast flickering shadows on the walls. Emperor Ophelia sat in a quaint chair, holding a crystal ball in her hand. There is a faint flow of colorful light inside the ball, as if carrying infinite power.
At the emperor's side stood Achline, the high priest of the Angelic camp. He was dressed in a snow-white robe, wearing the holy emblem of the Camp of angels on his chest, his hands clasped, his eyes fixed.
Five princes were reflected in the crystal ball, each standing in his camp, commanding troops or conferring with his staff. Everyone's expressions and movements are clearly reflected, as if their every move cannot escape the gaze of the crystal ball.
Achline's eyes fell first on his eldest son, Saul Ophelia. Saul was composed, discussing tactics with the generals, calm in expression and proper in manner. His troops were well organized, showing his command of the war.
"Saul was as calm as ever." Achline said, with a hint of approval in his voice. "He is a good commander, but he lacks a decisive ambition."
The emperor nodded slightly, but his eyes turned to his second son, Karl Ophelia. Carl, a burly man, was training the soldiers himself, and his command was more direct, full of the courage and drive of a warrior.
"Carl did well. His bravery made him a hero in the army." The Emperor whispered, but there was a hint of worry in his voice. "Unfortunately, his mind is too simple."
Then Kane Ophelia, the third son, was reflected in the crystal ball. Kane is talking to a group of mercenary chiefs, his eyes deep and calm, the words are concise but persuasive, the temper of the mercenary chiefs not one dare to despise him.
"Kane has always been a smart kid," Mr. Achline said, his tone admiring. "I was reassured by his strategy and judgment, but he was too cautious and missed opportunities."
The Emperor nodded and praised, "Kane's wisdom is impeccable, but he needs to learn to take greater risks."
Next, we cut to the fourth Reynold Ophelia. He was standing on a high platform, watching his army. His expression was cold, and his silver-gray hair sparkled in the sun. His manner of command was orderly and his words carried an unmistakable authority.
At that moment, however, the light of the crystal ball suddenly quivered, and Renault's figure became somewhat blurred, as if a dark shadow had passed through his body.
'Wait! Achline's eyes closed and he quickly pressed his hand against the crystal ball, trying to catch the strange light.
The emperor's eyes also became cold, and his voice was low. "Priest, what did you see just now?"
Achline closed his eyes for a moment, then opened them slowly with a mixed look on his face. "Your Majesty, inside Reynaud... There seems to be another force."
The emperor was silent for a moment, his eyes deep: "Another force? Is it the influence of the demon camp?"
"Not really." Akline shook his head with a hint of doubt in his voice, "It's not like a demon's curse, it's more like a... The split soul. In his body, it was as if there were two minds, one of Renault himself and the other with very strong negative emotions."
The emperor's fist clenched slightly, and his gaze grew deeper. As he gazed into the crystal ball at Renault's figure, mixed emotions appeared in his eyes: "Renault... He is my son and one of the future of the royal family. Despite his obsession and ambition, I believe he will not betray the Empire."
Achline frowned slightly and his voice sank. "Your trust is important, Sire, but if it is uncontrolled, it may bring disaster to the Empire."
The emperor's eyes were slightly cold and his tone was unmistakable: "Priest, do not presume on my child." Reno grew up smart. He had his means and his ends. Perhaps that power was his trial, not his curse."
Achline did not rebut, but bowed his head and said, "As you wish, Sire." But allow me to continue to observe him. I will let you know as soon as there is anything unusual."
The emperor nodded, his eyes still fixed on the crystal ball: "Continue to monitor the movements of all princes." This war is not only a test of their ability, but also a test of their loyalty."
The scene cuts back to Reno, who is watching soldiers on a training ground. On the surface, his movements and demeanor were as calm and confident as ever. But what no one knew was that deep down inside he was going through a fierce struggle.
"They don't believe you, Reno." A deep voice in his head, mocking and seductive, said, "Even your father is questioning you."
Renault's brow furrowed slightly and he retorted in a low voice: "Shut up, I don't need your mouth."
"But you need me." The voice continued, with a cold smile in its tone, "You want power, you want control. And I can help you do that."
Renaud clenched his fist and his eyes grew colder. He looked up at the troops in the distance, his voice low and calm: "My fate, I control myself." No one can control me."
His expression returned to calm, but there was a deep shadow in his eyes. The memory reflected in the mirror and the voice in his mind seemed to tear his heart a little bit.
In the chamber of secrets, the emperor slowly stood up, still gazing at Renault in the crystal ball. His voice was deep and commanding: "No matter what happens to him, my son will not betray the royal family."
Achline took a moment, then said respectfully, "Your Majesty, I hope you are right."
The Emperor turned and left the chamber with a steady and forceful step. His back shows endless majesty and responsibility, at the same time, there is also a deep worry hidden.
"Renault, don't let me down." His voice was inaudible, but it echoed around the chamber.