The soldier nodded and exited the throne room to fulfill his king's orders. Left alone in his thoughts, King Aiden contemplated the consequences of the shattered peace, his mind haunted by the impending turmoil that lay ahead.
Moments later, another soldier entered the throne room, and King Aiden turned his gaze towards him. “Bring my son to me when he awakens for the day,” he commanded, his voice laced with a mixture of worry and determination.
As the soldier bowed and left to fulfill his king's request, Victor stood in the grand hallway of the Fire Kingdom palace, his imposing figure blocking the path of the Fire Kingdom soldier who was rushing to leave. As the General of the Fire Kingdom army, it was his duty to maintain order and ensure the safety of the realm.
“Where are you going in such a rush?” Victor questioned, his voice commanding and filled with authority.
The soldier, slightly taken aback by Victor's presence, replied, “I am following my king's orders.”
Victor's eyes narrowed, his mind racing with suspicion. “Prince Tyson is in charge of overseeing the Fire Kingdom's issues. Tell me what the king ordered.”
The soldier hesitated for a moment, fully aware of the consequences of revealing classified information. “You know I can't reveal that,” he reluctantly responded.
Before Victor could press further, the soldier swiftly maneuvered past him, disappearing down the halls of the palace. Determined to get to the bottom of the matter, Victor made his way into the throne room, where he found King Aiden gazing out of the window, his thoughts seemingly drifting away with the passing birds.
“My King, the soldier that just left here. Did you give him a mission?” Victor inquired, a mix of concern and curiosity evident in his tone.
King Aiden turned to face Victor, his expression serious. “Yes, I told him to send spies into the Water Kingdom.”
Victor's eyes widened with surprise and apprehension. “Why? What has happened?”
King Aiden sighed heavily, his voice filled with a sense of urgency. “The soldier informed me that the Water Kingdom has withdrawn from the peace treaty. We must find out what King Arroyo wants with Marudeva's baby and the Earth Kingdom's baby.”
Victor's mind raced, contemplating the implications of such a revelation. “But what if our spies get caught in the Water Kingdom? That soldier, he's not a ranking officer in the Fire Kingdom Army. I could have selected the men for this mission.”
A flicker of confusion crossed King Aiden's face. “I thought that soldier was sent here by you.”
“No, he wasn't,” Victor replied, his voice laced with concern and suspicion.
Just then, a group of Fire Kingdom soldiers burst into the throne room, carrying a badly beaten man. One of the soldiers stepped closer to Victor, his voice filled with urgency. “General Victor, King Aiden, we found our soldier beaten just outside of the Endless Burning Forest.”
Victor's instincts heightened, his gaze shifting between the injured soldier and the soldiers who had entered. “We must stop that soldier,” he declared firmly.
Another soldier interjected, his voice trembling slightly. “It's not just that, General. As we were carrying our fellow injured soldier, we saw a soldier leading a small troop of Fire Kingdom soldiers out of the Kingdom.”
Victor's eyes locked with King Aiden's, a mix of determination and concern evident in his gaze. “King Aiden, please return to your room and remain there until we have thoroughly checked the Kingdom for any more potential trespassers.”
The gravity of the situation settled upon them both, as they realized the Fire Kingdom faced an internal threat that could have far-reaching consequences. With the fate of the Kingdom hanging in the balance, Victor knew that he had to act swiftly and decisively to protect his people and uncover the truth behind the escalating tensions with the Water Kingdom.
Victor himself, adorned in his distinguished armor, guided King Aiden through the corridors of the Fire Kingdom palace. Two loyal Fire Kingdom soldiers trailed behind them, their vigilant eyes scanning for any signs of danger. As they reached King Aiden's private chambers, Victor stepped inside, his senses on high alert. He carefully surveyed the room, seeking out any hidden threats or lurking adversaries. Satisfied that all was secure, he motioned for King Aiden to enter, then Victor headed to Prince Tyson’s chambers.
Prince Tyson emerged, dressed and ready for the day, his presence commanding and regal. But before he could fully step out, Princess Yeongi pulled him back into the room, their lips locked in a final passionate embrace.
Victor cleared his throat loudly, a sharp attempt to capture Prince Tyson's attention. Still, the prince seemed oblivious, lost in the momentary bliss of his wife's affection. It was only when Princess Yeongi reluctantly released him that Prince Tyson finally noticed Victor's presence.
“My love, I must do my duty. Go rest a few more moments, and I will see you later,” Prince Tyson whispered to his wife before turning his attention to Victor.
Prince Tyson's voice, though calm and composed, hid a hint of curiosity. “Good morning, Victor,” he greeted, his gaze piercing through the uncertainty that lingered in the air.
Prince Tyson walked briskly alongside Victor, his heart pounding in his chest as he observed the Fire Kingdom soldiers, their helmets conspicuously absent. The sight troubled him, raising a sense of unease within him. Unable to contain his curiosity any longer, he turned to Victor and asked, “Why are the Fire Kingdom soldiers not wearing their helmets?”
Victor, his loyal advisor, let out a sigh before responding. “I ordered them to remove their helmets, my prince. It was necessary because your father, King Aiden, was approached by someone pretending to be a Fire Kingdom soldier.”
Prince Tyson's eyes widened in alarm. “Is my father safe?” he asked, his voice trembling with concern.
Reassuringly, Victor nodded. “Yes, King Aiden is in his room, but the imposter led a group of Fire Kingdom soldiers to the Water Kingdom. They believe they are going on a spying mission, but I fear it's a trap.”
Prince Tyson's mind raced, imagining the impending danger that awaited the unsuspecting soldiers. “They will be slaughtered when they arrive at the Water Kingdom,” he whispered, a mix of anger and sorrow in his voice.
“Indeed,” Victor replied grimly. “And that is not all, my prince. King Arroyo has terminated the peace treaty between our kingdoms.”
The news hit Prince Tyson like a punch to the gut. The fragile peace they had worked so hard to build was crumbling before his eyes. Determination ignited within him, overshadowing any fear he felt. “I am off to meet with Marudeva, about a matter,” he declared.
Victor's expression turned grave. “Marudeva spends his days guarding the entrance to the Green Forest. It is a perilous place, and I implore you, my prince, to consider pulling back our soldiers and waiting for this storm to pass.”
Prince Tyson's gaze hardened, his resolve unyielding. “I made a promise to my wife, to protect the Earth Kingdom's baby. I cannot turn away when it needs me the most.”
Victor's voice pleaded with him, tinged with worry. “I understand your commitment, my prince, but we are not prepared for war. We cannot afford to lose you.”
Prince Tyson's eyes narrowed, a steely determination shining through. “I am not like the Wind King. I will not hide like a coward while our kingdoms crumble. I must meet with Marudeva and the Green Forest. And then, only then, will I consider our next move.”
Victor's voice dripped with concern as he spoke. “King Arroyo said Marudeva’s second child awakened the Earth Kingdom's baby and the Green Forest. King Arroyo wants both of them, for reasons unknown.”
Prince Tyson's brow furrowed in confusion. “How long have you known this information?” he asked, suspicion coloring his words.
Stolen story; please report.
Victor hesitated, then replied honestly, “For a while, my prince. But you must understand, rumors are often twisted and filled with deception.”
Silence hung in the air as Prince Tyson absorbed the weight of the revelations. His mind churned with thoughts of the imminent dangers, the shattered peace, and the whispered secrets. But one thing remained steadfast within him—his determination to protect those who relied on him. With a resolute nod, he turned to Victor and said, “I appreciate your concern, but I will be fine.”
Meanwhile, Prince Tyson, in his fiery armor, summons his horse, a magnificent creature forged from the elements of fire and coal. As he approaches, the intense heat emanating from his red and black hair transforms into dancing flames, causing everyone around to take a step back in awe. With a graceful leap, the prince mounts his steed, and as if by magic, his fiery hair returns to its natural state.
The prince leads his small army of loyal Fire Kingdom soldiers towards the exit. Their armor gleams in the sunlight, reflecting the power and determination that lies within each of them. The prince's mind is filled with conflicting thoughts, as he ponders over Victor's warning. The weight of his responsibility weighs heavily upon him, but his desire to aid Marudeva and the Green Forest pushes him forward.
***
Hanina decided to take a break from painting and make her way downstairs into Rufus's living room. As she settled onto the plush couch, she heard a soft, hesitant knock on the front door. Curiosity piqued, Hanina slowly rose, the weight of the baby she carried in her belly slowing her down. Opening the door, she was met with the familiar face of Sue, one of Rowan's housemaids.
“Good morning, Sue. How can I help you?” Hanina greeted, inviting her inside.
They both settled on the comfortable couch, the atmosphere growing tense as Sue appeared visibly nervous. Hanina sensed that something troubled her and gently encouraged her to speak.
“I know I shouldn't trouble you with this,” Sue began, her voice almost a whisper.
Hanina reassured her, “Go ahead, Sue. You can trust me.”
Sue hesitated for a moment before continuing, “Are you planning to return to work at Rowan's mansion after you give birth?”
Hanina pondered the question for a moment. “Not right away, but I was hoping too eventually. Why do you ask?”
Sue took a deep breath, her words tumbling out in a rush. ‘It's about Lucy, the supervisor. She engages in inappropriate conduct with the male staff during working hours. I've been witnessing it for some time now, and it's been weighing on my conscience. But Lucy's family has powerful friends, and I fear the consequences if I were to report her to Rowan.”
Hanina's eyes widened in concern. “I understand your fear, Sue, but allowing such behavior to continue is not the solution. Rowan is fair, he will make things right.”
With a mixture of relief and trepidation, Sue shared stories of their time working at Rowan's mansion, reminiscing about the good times they had shared. They spoke for hours, finding solace in each other's company. As the conversation drew to a close, they walked towards the front door together.
But suddenly, Hanina felt a sharp pain shoot through her body, causing her to gasp. Her water broke, signaling the onset of labor.
Sue's eyes widened in panic as she exclaimed, “What do I do, Hanina?”
Hanina, her voice filled with calm determination, replied, “Please, go and find Rufus. I will have enough time. Don't worry about me now, just go.”
Sue nodded, her concern etched on her face, and rushed off to find Rufus. Meanwhile, Hanina eased herself back onto the couch, her breaths coming in short and quick intervals, as she held her belly, embracing the beauty and pain of the miracle about to unfold.
Sue's heart raced as she burst out of the large red cave, her footsteps echoing through the endless red cravens that stretched out before her. In the distance, she spotted Rufus. He stood in an open space, surrounded by demon hunters from different hells, training them with a fierce determination. Sue rushed towards him, her footsteps quick and determined.
As she approached, Rufus stepped away from the green devil he had been instructing, his eyes filled with curiosity and concern. “What is wrong, Sue?” he asked, his voice calm yet tinged with worry.
Gasping for breath, Sue managed to utter the words that hung heavy on her heart. “Hanina's water broke,” she said, her voice trembling with urgency.
Rufus's eyes widened, a mixture of surprise and excitement lighting up his face. He looked over at the green devil, their training momentarily forgotten. A smile formed on his lips as he realized the significance of Sue's words.
“I am going to be a father,” Rufus whispered, his voice filled with a sense of wonder and joy. He turned to Sue, gratitude shining in his eyes. “Thank you for bringing me this news, Sue.”
Sue nodded, her face a mix of relief and happiness for him. She had seen Rufus sacrifice so much for the cause of fighting demons, and now he was about to embark on a different kind of journey, one that would require his strength and love in a whole new way.
Rufus placed a hand on the Green Devil’s shoulder, his touch comforting and warm. “Return home,” he said softly. “I will write to you as soon as we can start training again. But for now, I must go, for Hanina needs me.”
With that, Rufus turned and ran alongside Sue, their footsteps echoing through the red cravens. They journeyed back to his home, their hearts filled with anticipation and love for the new arrival.
***
As Marudeva scanned the horizon, his keen eyes caught sight of movement at the edge of the forest. Out came the Brucie Beings, made by the very essence of the Green Forest itself, they form a blend of flora and fauna. They approached Marudeva and the Fire Kingdom soldiers, their presence both curious and expectant.
One of Brucie Beings spoke, its voice carrying a hint of authority, “Why have you come, Marudeva, Leader of the Dwellers?”
Marudeva, a figure of strength and wisdom, replied with a calm resolve, “Prince Tyson from the Fire Kingdom will be here shortly, and he wants to tell you something.”
A Brucie Being, albeit somewhat reluctantly, nodded in agreement. “Fine.”
Moments later, Prince Tyson arrived with a small group of Fire Kingdom soldiers, their horses kicking up dust as they rode towards the gathering. Marudeva walked over and warmly embraced Prince Tyson, a testament to the trust that had been forged between them over the years.
Prince Tyson wasted no time in conveying his urgent message, his voice laced with concern, “Marudeva, I must warn you and the Green Forest.”
Brucie Beings, its voice tinged with anticipation, interjected, “We are aware that the Water Kingdom seeks to harm the Earth Kingdom's child and your own. But you say there is more to it?”
Prince Tyson nodded gravely, “Indeed, the Water King's motives have shifted. The children are no longer mere targets, but pawns in a larger game. We need to understand why he desires them.”
Marudeva's brows furrowed as he sought answers, “But why does he want our children? What purpose do they serve?”
Prince Tyson clenched his fists, determination etched across his features. “Its unknown at this time, but the Water King is planning something significant. Marudeva, for now, it would be best if your Dwellers remain hidden beneath the desert sands. As for the Earth Kingdom child, seal yourselves within the Green Forest once more. Allow no entry and safeguard the child at all costs.”
As the meeting ended, Prince Tyson approached Marudeva with a gleam of excitement in his eyes. “Dear cousin,” he exclaimed, “I want to visit with your family.”
Marudeva, though taken aback by the sudden request, nodded, and replied, “Fine, Tyson. You are always welcome.”
Moments later, Prince Tyson follows Marudeva below, then they enter Marudeva’s home, as Pyla descended the stairs with their two children. Five-month-old Emathion clung to her arms, while three-year-old Ramil trotted beside her. Ramil's eyes lit up when he spotted Prince Tyson, and he ran past his mother, greeting him with unbridled enthusiasm.
“Uncle Tyson, I just turned three!” Ramil exclaimed, his voice filled with excitement.
Prince Tyson knelt down to Ramil's level, a playful smile on his face. “Yes, my boy, and did you get my gift?”
Pyla, amused but slightly concerned, approached them, and asked, “Yes, why did you give a three-year-old a sword?”
Prince Tyson chuckled softly. “Ramil will grow into it, dear Pyla.”
As Pyla moved closer, she couldn't help but notice Prince Tyson's striking appearance. She looked him up and down, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Your wife must be quite understanding, allowing you to leave the house looking so handsome. What have you been up to, Tyson?”
Marudeva burst into laughter, teasingly remarking, “Are you flirting with my cousin?”
Pyla blushed slightly, her playful tone turning more serious. “No, really, but he does look very handsome now. What is your secret, Tyson?”
Prince Tyson's eyes sparkled with a mixture of pride and determination. “I have been training with the Fire Kingdom soldiers.”
“Now, let me see this beautiful baby of yours,” Prince Tyson said, shifting the conversation. Pyla handed him baby Emathion, a small bundle of joy in his arms. Prince Tyson cooed and made funny faces, eliciting a melodious laugh from the baby.
Marudeva, his protective instincts flaring, spoke with determination. “I will not allow the Water King to take him, Tyson. Emathion is my blood, and I will fight to keep him safe.”
Prince Tyson's face grew solemn. “You should have summoned me, soon as you had troubles with the Water King. We are family, and family stands together.”
Marudeva nodded, the weight of his decisions and responsibilities weighing heavily on his heart. “I am sorry, Tyson, but you were dealing with the Fire Kingdom, and I didn’t want to burden you.”
With renewed determination, Prince Tyson placed a hand on Marudeva's shoulder. “We will find a way, cousin. Together, we will protect our family and our lands.”
Marudeva sat on his comfortable couch in the cozy living room, watching Prince Tyson cradle his precious baby Emathion in his strong arms. The room was filled with warmth and love as their other son, Ramil, excitedly showed Prince Tyson his collection of toys.
Pyla spoke up, breaking the silence. “Prince Tyson are you staying for dinner?” she asked with a warm smile.
Prince Tyson hesitated for a moment, his eyes filled with a hint of longing. “I don't know,” he replied softly. “I must get back to the Fire Kingdom soon.”
Ramil, not ready to say goodbye to his favorite uncle, tugged on Prince Tyson's arm. “Please stay a little longer, Uncle Tyson,” he pleaded with innocent eyes.
A small smile played on Prince Tyson's lips as he gazed at the eager toddler. “Fine,” he finally conceded, unable to resist Ramil's plea. “I will join you for dinner, but I must message my wife first.”
Marudeva, ever the thoughtful host, spoke up. “I will message Princess Yeongi for you, Prince Tyson. Please, enjoy your moment with our children.”
Prince Tyson turned his attention back to the children, immersing himself in their laughter and playfulness. The evening passed in a whirlwind of joy and laughter. Prince Tyson took great delight in playing with baby Emathion, making funny faces that elicited infectious giggles. Ramil, wide-eyed with excitement, proudly displayed his toys to his beloved Uncle Tyson.