John woke up to the familiar surroundings of his bedroom in the palace. The sunlight filtered in through the window, casting a warm glow over the room. He rubbed his eyes, trying to shake off the sleep, when he heard a knock on the door. "Come in," he called out.
Princess Isabella stepped into the room, dressed in a simple white robe. "Good morning, John. I hope you slept well."
John sat up, curious as to why she was there so early in the morning. "Good morning, Isabella. Is everything alright?"
"I have something important to discuss with you, John. Something that could change everything," she said, her voice serious.
John got up and followed her to her study chambers. It was a small, cozy room with a wooden desk and several bookshelves lining the walls. Princess Isabella gestured for him to sit, and she took a seat opposite him.
"John, I am a priest and a member of an ancient organization called the Covenant of Light. We are dedicated to protecting the world from evil forces. The Covenant is led by a High Council consisting of five members, each with their own unique title and kingdom," she explained.
Princess Isabella then shared the names and titles of the other four members, detailing their roles in the organization. John was amazed by the power and influence these individuals held.
She extended an invitation for John to join the Covenant and become one of its leaders. "I cannot fight the Demon King on my own," John admitted, feeling a wave of guilt wash over him.
"Joining the Covenant would be the best thing you could do, John. You will have allies and resources at your disposal," Princess Isabella said, her voice gentle.
John nodded his head, affirming his willingness to join. They discussed a possible ally, a powerful mage named Ozlo Hermann, who was trapped inside the Tower of Knowledge. They decided to investigate and try to rescue him before venturing into the Mirage Marketplace to investigate the sudden disappearance of allied agents.
As their conversation came to a close, the Crown Prince's servant arrived to escort John to the throne room. John was helped by several female maids and dressed in a pristine white and gold suit, carefully adjusting his cuffs to ensure he looked presentable. The servant informed him of certain matter and then led him through the palace corridors, adorned with ornate chandeliers and flags of all colors. As they walked, John noticed some minor and major nobles together with their knights and personal aids watching him, some throwing him curious glances with good intentions, while others sized him up with other more obscure intent. Guards lined the halls, standing at attention as they passed.
Upon entering the grand hall, John was struck by its opulence. The room was filled with gilded pillars, marble floors, and a soaring ceiling adorned with intricate frescoes. At the far end of the room sat the Crown Prince, surrounded by his courtiers and advisors. John walked forward, his footsteps echoing through the hall, until he knelt before the throne.
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With a deep bow, John accepted the title of Viscount and the ring of "Viscount's Authority" bestowed upon him by the Crown Prince. John's heart raced with excitement and gratitude.
With the ring, John is bestowed with the noble title of Viscount. The ring itself also contains magical abilities that grant him protection from the harsh elements of the desert. Additionally, the ring provides auxiliary benefits, such as medium health regeneration and stamina recovery.
In recognition of his accomplishments, John was also granted deeds to several frontier and big cities, including Hortasmos City in the north and Ywon City in the northeast. To help him defend these territories and undertake future endeavors, John was also given a loyal army of 300 well-trained troops as well as loyal advisor handpicked by the prince and princess to operate the city’s at his absence.
"Your Highness, I am honored beyond words," John said, his voice choked with emotion. "I will do my utmost to serve the Kingdom of Delfiora and uphold the values of the Light."
The Crown Prince acknowledged his previous behavior, apologizing for not being the most welcoming host. He hoped that this gesture would serve as a symbol of their renewed friendship and as a testament to the courage and valor John had shown in the face of adversity.
John rose to his feet, his heart filled with a renewed sense of purpose. As he left the throne room and made his way back to his quarters, he reflected on the conversation he had with Princess Isabella and the Crown Prince. The invitation to join the Covenant of Light was a significant honor, and John knew that he had to live up to the expectations that came with it.
He decided to take some time to prepare himself for the journey ahead. He spent the next few days training with the palace guards, honing his swordsmanship and combat skills. He also spent time with the palace librarian, studying ancient texts and tomes on magic and the occult.
As he delved deeper into the world of magic, John became increasingly fascinated by the power it held. He learned about the various schools of magic and the different spells and incantations that could be cast. He even discovered a rare book on elemental magic, which detailed how to control the elements of fire, water, earth, and air.
With newfound knowledge and skills, John felt ready to embark on his mission to rescue Ozlo Hermann and investigate the Mirage Marketplace. He knew that the journey would be dangerous, but he was determined to succeed.
On the day of his departure, John was dressed in a set of yellowish white leather armor that he had acquired from the palace armory. The armor was lightweight and flexible, allowing him to move freely in combat. He carried his sword and shield, both of which had been polished to a gleaming shine.
Princess Isabella met him at the palace gates, dressed in a simple black robe. "Are you ready, John?" she asked, her voice steady.
John nodded. "I am."
Princess Isabella placed a hand on his shoulder. "Remember, John, the Covenant of Light is depending on you. You have been chosen for a reason. Do not fail us."
John nodded again, his determination renewed. He mounted his beast, a magnificent yellow colored stallion named Little Sand a cross between a camel and horse, and set off on his journey with Princess Isabella by his side.
As they rode through the sand, John couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and trepidation. He knew that he was venturing into unknown territory, but he was ready to face whatever lay ahead. With the power of the Covenant of Light behind him, John felt confident that he could overcome any obstacle and emerge victorious.