Prince Maccoy stood tall in the center of his bedroom, his eyes blazing with anger. The Fire Kingdom soldiers, known for their fierce loyalty, had dared to enter his private chambers uninvited. Their presence was an insult to his authority, a direct challenge to his rule. With a voice that carried the weight of his royal lineage, he addressed them, his words dripping with contempt.
“Get Out before I am forced to kill you,” he declared, his voice resonating through the room. The soldiers, taken aback by the prince's audacity, hesitated for a moment before attempting to regain their composure. But Prince Maccoy was not one to be trifled with. With a swift motion, he extended his arm, and the soldiers were sent flying out of the bedroom, their bodies crashing against the walls.
Prince Maccoy’s bedroom door swung open, revealing a chaotic scene. Fire Kingdom soldiers rushed down the hall, their armor clanking with every hurried step. Their urgency echoed through the grand palace, reaching the ears of King Aiden, who sat solemnly at his desk. The weight of the kingdom's future rested heavily on his shoulders, and he couldn't shake the fear that Prince Maccoy's condition would prevent him from producing an heir or ruling effectively.
One soldier approached the king, his voice filled with concern. “My king, Prince Maccoy is having another episode.”
The king's heart sank, but he remained composed. “Lock down the palace just in case he attempts to escape again. Summon my other son, Prince Tyson, immediately.”
With a sense of urgency, King Aiden rushed down the corridor, stopping at the open doorway of Prince Maccoy's bedroom. Inside, the prince paced anxiously, his words directed at an unseen presence. King Aiden strained to listen, his heart breaking for his troubled son.
“I don't care about ruling or power,” Prince Maccoy cried out, his voice filled with desperation. “My only desire is to be with the woman I love, to raise our child together.”
King Aiden pretended not to hear, stepping into the room. Prince Maccoy recoiled, fear etched across his face.
“Father, please go,” he pleaded, his voice trembling. “I don't want to hurt you. Just lock me in here and forget about me.”
Tears welled up in the king's eyes as he reached out to his son. “You are my son, Maccoy. I will never abandon you, no matter the circumstances. We need you, the Fire Kingdom needs you.”
Prince Maccoy sank onto his bed, his body racked with sobs. “Father, please... just leave me.”
With a heavy heart, King Aiden reluctantly left the room, his gaze lingering on his tormented son. As he walked down the grand halls of the palace, the weight of his responsibilities bore down on him. He returned to his office, contemplating the future of the Fire Kingdom and the challenges that lay ahead.
Prince Maccoy sat alone in his bedroom, his heart heavy with sorrow. Tears streamed down his face as he replayed his father's words over and over in his mind. King Aiden's voice echoed through the room, reminding him of his duty, his responsibility to the Fire Kingdom.
“You are the last hope, Maccoy,” his father's voice reverberated in his ears. “You must ascend to the throne and lead our people to prosperity. The fate of our kingdom rests on your shoulders.”
But Maccoy couldn't bring himself to care about ruling. His mind was consumed by a different battle, one that waged within him every day. It was a battle against the demon that sought to control him, to manipulate his desires and temptations.
His thoughts drifted to Hanina, his lover. She was everything he had ever wanted - kind, compassionate, and fiercely loyal. But their love was forbidden, a secret they had to keep hidden from the world. The Fire Kingdom had strict rules and traditions, and any deviation from them was met with severe consequences.
Prince Maccoy's heart ached as he yearned to be with Hanina openly, to hold her hand and proclaim their love to the world. But the demon in his mind whispered poisonous thoughts, reminding him of the consequences they would face if their secret was revealed. It fueled his internal struggle, tearing him apart from the inside.
***
Prince Tyson and Princess Yeongi were lost in the throes of ecstasy, their bodies entwined in a passionate embrace. The warmth of their love filled the room, their desires igniting like a blazing fire. But just as their vehemence reached its peak, a persistent knocking echoed through the corridors of their castle home.
Startled, Princess Yeongi pulled her husband closer, desperately urging him not to stop. Prince Tyson, torn between his desire for his wife and the insistent knocking, tried to continue their lovemaking, but the sound grew louder, intruding upon their intimate moment.
Irritated, Prince Tyson threw off the sheets and rose from the bed, slipping on a loose robe as he made his way to the door. The knocking grew louder, echoing through the castle halls, grating on his nerves.
“I am coming!” he grumbled, his voice laced with annoyance. He swung open the door and came face to face with his father's Fire Kingdom soldiers. Their stern expressions gave away nothing of their purpose.
“What do you want?” Prince Tyson asked, his voice curt.
A soldier stepped forward, his voice respectful but urgent. “King Aiden, your father, has summoned you,” he said.
Prince Tyson's brows furrowed. His father rarely called for him, especially at such an early hour. “Tell him I will be there in an hour,” he replied, his tone betraying his reluctance.
The soldier hesitated before speaking again. “Your brother had another episode,” he revealed, his voice tinged with concern.
Prince Tyson's heart sank. His brother had been plagued by these episodes for weeks, but they seemed to be growing more frequent and severe. He knew he had to act quickly. “Give me five minutes to get dressed,” he requested, his voice filled with determination.
The soldier nodded, understanding the urgency. “May we wait inside?” he asked.
Prince Tyson shook his head. “No, I don't need an escort to the Fire Kingdom palace next door. I will be there shortly,” he replied, his voice resolute.
With that, he closed the door, shutting out the world beyond. He returned to his bedroom, his mind racing with thoughts of his father's summons and his brother's condition. As he dressed, he couldn't shake the feeling of responsibility weighing heavily on his shoulders.
Prince Tyson's heart raced as he kissed his wife, Princess Yeongi, goodbye before leaving their bedroom. He hoped he could aid his brother with his illness. As he stepped inside the magnificent palace, a Fire Kingdom soldier approached him and escorted him to his father's office.
The soldier led Prince Tyson through the grand corridors, filled with intricate tapestries and flickering torches. Prince Tyson couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building within him. It had been weeks since he had seen his father, and he wondered what news awaited him.
Finally, they arrived at King Aiden's office. The soldier opened the door and announced Prince Tyson's presence before leaving them alone. As the door closed, Prince Tyson's gaze met his father's, and he was surprised to see a rare smile on King Aiden's face.
“Let me talk to my son in private,” King Aiden instructed, waving his hand to dismiss the remaining soldiers. The door closed, leaving only the two of them in the room.
Prince Tyson couldn't contain his curiosity any longer. “Father, is Maccoy okay?” he asked, concern lacing his voice.
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King Aiden's smile faded slightly as he spoke. “It doesn't matter, my son. We may have been blessed with a miracle. I believe Princess Uahi is pregnant with your brother's child.”
Prince Tyson knew the truth, that Princess Uahi was not carrying Prince Maccoy's child. But he couldn't reveal the secret. He had to protect his brother and the woman he loved. So, he carefully chose his words. “Father, Princess Uahi would never...”
King Aiden moved closer to Prince Tyson, his voice filled with conviction. “I know, my son. It is against the King's law of the Kingdoms of Elements. But I overheard your brother talking about becoming a father.”
Prince Tyson sighed, realizing his father's stubbornness. “Father, Maccoy's mind is not in the right place. He could be speaking wishfully, without fully understanding the consequences.”
“What if you are wrong?” King Aiden questioned, his voice stern.
Prince Tyson's eyes held a flicker of frustration. “Father, this kingdom is slowly falling apart, and you never listen to me. Once Victor returns with the Earth Kingdom's medical records, we might find answers to why Maccoy is suffering.”
King Aiden's face hardened, his eyes narrowing. “I told you this in confidence, for no one else to know. You are always so negative about everything. But I am telling you, Maccoy's words made it clear that he believes he is going to be a father.”
Prince Tyson knew he couldn't change his father's mind. The weight of the kingdom's laws and traditions hung heavily in the air. “So be it, father,” he said, resignation in his voice. “But please, keep anyone away from his room who may report it. If it is discovered to be true, the mother could be destroyed according to the King's laws.”
King Aiden nodded, his expression softening slightly. “I will heed that part, my son. But as for your other words, I will disregard them.”
Prince Tyson sighed, realizing that his father's stubbornness could have dire consequences. He could only hope that Victor's return would shed light on the truth and save his brother’s life and he can continue to conceal the woman Maccoy loves from the harsh judgment of The Kingdoms of Elements.
***
Rowan emerged from his office, his presence commanding attention. As he approached her, Hanina couldn't help but notice the concern etched on his face.
“Good morning, Hanina. How is everything?” Rowan's voice was warm, his eyes filled with genuine care.
A smile graced Hanina's lips as she replied, “Good morning, sir. I have packed your belongings for your trip. Shall I have them loaded into your carriage?”
Rowan chuckled softly, his voice laced with gratitude. “You know, I believe I can manage carrying two bags myself. But I appreciate the offer.”
Curiosity piqued, Hanina inquired, “How long will you be gone, sir?”
Rowan's eyes softened, a hint of sadness flickering within them. “No longer than two weeks. But I have spoken with Lucy.”
Hanina's eyebrows furrowed in confusion. “Lucy? The maid? What about her?”
Rowan took a step closer, his gaze unwavering. “Lucy believes that if you had an assistant, you would have more time for yourself.”
Hanina's heart sank, a mix of disappointment and self-doubt washing over her. “Is my work not satisfactory, sir? Have I failed in some way?”
Rowan reached out, gently placing a hand on Hanina's shoulder. “No, Hanina. Your work is not just satisfactory; it is exceptional. This house would crumble without your dedication. But I must acknowledge that most young ladies your age desire more from life. I want you to have the opportunity to find happiness and fulfillment.”
Hanina's voice trembled slightly as she responded, “Rowan, I am sorry if I have disappointed you. I will work even harder, I promise.”
Rowan's eyes softened, filled with paternal affection. “Hanina, you do more than enough already. I don't want you to overwork yourself. I see you almost like a daughter, and I only want you to start thinking about yourself more and me less.”
Hanina's eyes brimmed with gratitude and a hint of sadness. “I understand, Rowan. But please know that I am happy with my life as it is right now. Lucy's concerns about me are unfounded.”
Rowan nodded, his expression filled with understanding. “It was merely a suggestion, Hanina. I will not make any decisions until I return from my trip. And if need be, we can always hire more staff. But for now, take care of yourself. Your happiness is important to me.”
Rowan gave Hanina a light hug, his arms enveloping her like a protective shield. It was a gesture that spoke volumes, a fatherly affection that Hanina had grown to cherish. As Rowan made his way down the grand halls of his mansion, Hanina turned around, her eyes downcast, lost in her own thoughts.
As she walked, Hanina stumbled upon Lucy, her fellow maid, surrounded by a group of giggling women. The other maids quickly dispersed, leaving Hanina face-to-face with Lucy, who greeted her with a seemingly innocent “Good morning, Hanina.”
But there was an undercurrent of tension between them, a brewing storm that threatened to break loose. Hanina couldn't contain her anger any longer. “What is wrong with you, Lucy? How dare you talk to Rowan about me behind my back?”
Lucy's laughter echoed through the corridor, a mocking sound that fueled Hanina's frustration. “Hanina, how come the other day Rufus had enough time to bid you farewell, but not me?” she taunted.
Hanina's cheeks flushed with anger. Rufus, Rowan’s younger brother also a renowned Demon Hunter, had captured the hearts of many of the maids, including Lucy. But Hanina had always been indifferent to his charms. “I don't know, Lucy. Take it up with Rufus if you're so bothered. Now, get back to work.”
Lucy's laughter turned sly, her eyes gleaming with mischief. “You seem so perfect, Hanina. Always following the rules, obeying orders without question. But even you must have a weakness, a secret hidden beneath that composed facade.”
Hanina's eyes narrowed, suspicion creeping into her voice. “Is this because of Rufus? Are you trying to provoke me?”
Lucy shrugged nonchalantly, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. “Not really, Hanina. The days are long here, and I need something to keep me interested. And what better way than to uncover the secrets of the seemingly flawless Hanina?”
A surge of anger coursed through Hanina's veins. Lucy's words were like poison, a constant reminder of the fragility of her carefully constructed life. “I think there is something wrong with your mind, Lucy. Now, go back to work.”
Hanina watched as Lucy's figure slowly receded, her steps echoing down the grand halls of Rowan's mansion. With a quick turn, Hanina darted down the corridors, her heart pounding in her chest. She had to reach her bedroom, her sanctuary, before Lucy could catch up to her.
***
In the Dweller city, On this particular day, Aurgelmir, the revered general of the Dweller warriors, emerged from the horizon astride his majestic horse. With the sun illuminating his hardened features, he commanded the attention of those around him. Aurgelmir's voice rang out, carrying the weight of authority and urgency, as he addressed his fellow warriors.
“Come with me, Warriors,” he declared, his voice resonating with a quiet intensity. “We must meet our leader, Marudeva, near the armors and weapon makers shops at the edge of the city.”
Arriving at their destination, the warriors dismounted their horses and surveyed the area with keen eyes. The weapon makers and armorers continued their meticulous work, their hands dancing with grace and precision. Yet, amidst the rhythmic clinking of metal and the hiss of the forge, a sense of unease hung in the air.
Marudeva dismounted and made his way towards a group of Dweller armorers, who were busy pouring hot melted glass into molds for chest armor.
“Good morning, sir,” Marudeva greeted the armor maker, a grizzled man with soot-stained hands. “Rumors have been circulating that you may have seen an outsider.”
The armor maker paused his work, wiping sweat from his brow. “Yes, indeed,” he replied, his voice tinged with a hint of uncertainty. “I reported it two days ago. The man had features like a bass fish, as if he hailed from the Water Kingdom. But gods only know where he is now.”
Hours ticked by as Marudeva leaves and goes to his office within the Dweller Training building. The weight of his responsibilities pressed heavily on his shoulders, but he remained steadfast, dedicated to his duty as the leader of the Dwellers. Suddenly, the door swung open, and Aurgelmir, accompanied by a group of Dweller warriors, entered, leading a man with a peculiar pattern on his skin that resembled the bass of freshwater.
Aurgelmir placed the man in a chair before Marudeva's desk, his expression grave. “My leader, we caught him,” he announced.
Curiosity piqued, Marudeva leaned forward, studying the man before him. “Who are you?” he inquired, his voice firm but not unkind.
The man met Marudeva's gaze, his eyes filled with a mix of fear and determination. “I live here with my family,” he replied, his voice tinged with a hint of desperation. “My wife, she is a Dweller weapons maker.”
Marudeva's brow furrowed as he considered the man's words. “Did the Water King send you?” he probed, searching for any signs of deception.
The man's face contorted with disdain. “No,” he spat, his voice laced with bitterness. “I left the Water Kingdom years ago. I despise King Arroyo. He is an asshole and an evil man. I have been living here with my Dweller wife for twelve years, with our children, I assist my wife with running her armor shop.”
Aurgelmir, ever vigilant, interjected, “I can check out his story, my leader. I will ensure that he is telling the truth before we make any decisions about his fate.”
Marudeva paused, contemplating the situation at hand. After a moment, he shook his head. “No,” he declared firmly. “We will validate his claim and allow him to go back to his family. If we start exiling people based on where they came from, we are no better than the Kingdoms of Elements.”
The man's eyes widened with gratitude, his voice filled with a mix of relief and gratitude. “I only want to live with my family in peace,” he whispered.
Marudeva's mind raced, seeking any potential clues or connections. “Did the armor maker across the way know that you lived here before the lockdowns?” he asked, his voice tinged with suspicion.
The man nodded, his expression puzzled. “Yes, Willson,” he confirmed. “But why?”
Marudeva exchanged a knowing glance with Aurgelmir, his instincts urging caution. “I want Willson to be watched for a few days,” he commanded. “Something about this situation doesn't seem right.”
The more Marudeva thought about it, the more he realized that there had been subtle signs that he had missed. Perhaps, Marudeva thought, Willson had been gathering information all along, waiting for the right moment to strike.