Several days following their arrival in Lokkadonia, the grand coronation ceremony for Telmos Regios as the new King took place. Daniel watched with genuine pride; the House of Regios had always commanded his respect for their wisdom and valor. The event was a spectacle of pomp and tradition, with every monarch from every clan of Eleutheros present, save Phobos from Torre’, who regretfully declined the offer. The air was festive, filled with the harmonious sounds of the strange and unique instruments the Dae used, the rich scents of exotic spices, and the warm laughter of nobility.

Once the celebrations concluded and the guests and dignitaries from the other clans had departed, Daniel's focus shifted. He needed to prepare for his departure, driven by a mission that had been weighing on him since first waking up in the Spirit Forest. To find the other humans scattered across Pelemont. Using Alektor’s spy network, a resource so vast it both impressed and unnerved Daniel, he learned that the Espi-Dunam cult had established a significant presence in Exous. This would be his first stop.

With this information in hand, Daniel made his way through the ornate corridors of the Palace of Vul De Rah towards Alektor’s study, to attend a meeting he had called with all members of Alektor’s council. Upon arriving, he saw that everyone was present. Alektor himself, of course, along with Katrina, Turak, Delmos, Avria, Ambrosia, Queen Athica, and the newly crowned King of Lokkon, Telmos.

“Sorry I’m late.” Daniel said, finding a seat. “I got a last-minute report from Exous.”

“What is this about, Daniel?” Avria asked, crossing her arms, “We have several trade meetings with the Visgo and Volsung that we are already late for.”

“Alright, alright.” Daniel said, waving his hand. “I’ll make this quick.” Daniel pulled out a map of Eleutheros and laid it on one of the tables between them. The group gathered around it, and Daniel began. “As some of you know, I had a mission with Oros into Baa’Yega before the start of the war. We discovered that there was another human being held there by a cult called the ‘Espi-Dunam.”

"Wait." Delmos interjected, his tone sharp. "Another human? Why am I just hearing about this now?"

“Well, when we got there, the place had been destroyed and she had been rescued.” Daniel continued. “By, according to one of the survivors, a group of three other humans.”

Delmos slapped his forehead. “Are you serious, Dan? I’m never—"

“Let me finish.” Daniel huffed. “We made a plan to go after them, and make contact with the human group. After the war. Obviously, after the fall of Vul De Rah, that became an impossibility. Until now.” Daniel paused and looked at everyone in the room. “Alektor has granted me permission to go on a quest to find these humans; and offered the full support of Eleutheros in doing so.” He tapped the map at Exous, the smallest and southernmost clan of Eleutheros. “Our intelligence points to this as the location of the Espi-Dunam's main headquarters. They have the records we need. Once there, I can determine our next steps in locating the other humans in Vohnahrav.” Everyone was silent for several seconds, before Katrina spoke up. “I’m in, Dan. I already told you before.”

“Now hold on a second.” Delmos held his hands up. “We can’t just jump into this, Kat. Daniel is most likely going to be heading out to different countries, different Kingdoms on this continent. The risk is insane. Here in Eleutheros would be fine, but out there? Who knows what will happen.”

“I agree with Prince Delmos,” Alektor interjected, his tone carrying the weight of his authority. “Sending both of you on this mission together would make you an incredibly valuable target for our enemies. The risk is too substantial. I would insist that you remain here, Katrina.”

“I—,” Katrina began, her eyes flashing with a mix of frustration and resolve. Her voice was cut off by the overlapping sentiments in the room, but her posture suggested she was far from convinced or resigned to staying behind.

“Regardless.” Daniel pressed on, pointing to Exous again on the map. This is something I need to do. I know for sure that at least one of my friends is in Dominicia. So, I’m going no matter what. But I also agree. You need to stay here, Kat.”

Katrina’s face twisted into an angry scowl, but she didn’t press the issue further.

“Daniel.” Avria said, “why didn’t you tell me about this?”

Daniel shook his head. “Because we had pressing matters, Avria. I wanted to survive this war first, and deal with the rest after.”

Avria looked at the map, seemingly in deep thought. “And Oros promised he would go with you?”

“Yes.” He confirmed.

“If that is the case. Then I will go as well.” Avria said, turning to Telmos. “Delmos will make a fine prince, father. He and Princess Ambrosia can handle affairs until my return.”

“Absolutely not,” Telmos barked with authority, his voice echoing slightly in the room. “This is too soon. We have only just reclaimed our position in Vul De Rah, Avria. You are needed here. I need your counsel, and your strength. Our House was on the brink of destruction. We cannot afford to be without you, especially not now when we are still piecing together what remains of Lokkadonia.”

“King Telmos.” Alektor interjected. “Your daughter must embark. Her duty to the Spirit-Sent supersedes that of her council here. Delmos and Ambrosia will be up to the task. Ambrosia is a member of my council, and well versed in stately matters.”

Telmos shook his head, “But there is so much that needs to be done. Avria is my heir, and must be here to support the intricacies of our court. We can’t just—”

“You will have ample support, Telmos.” Alektor reassured him. “I promise you, you will not be left ill-equipped for what lies ahead.”

Telmos didn’t look convinced, but nodded reluctantly. “It seems I have no choice in the matter. Very well.”

“As this is a matter of great significance.” Alektor continued. “You will need the highest level of protection I can personally offer. Lord Turak will accompany you on this mission.”

Turak’s eyes bulged, and he looked at Alektor in complete and utter shock. “What!?” he sputtered. “Alektor, I’ll marry the girl! For the love of the Spirits this is unnecessary and childish.”

Alektor looked at Turak, his face serious. “You WILL bond with the girl, AND you will go on this mission. Turak, this is not a punishment. I need you to protect them. You are my most trusted friend and advisor. None other are more suited to go.”

Turak looked up to the ceiling. “Why do the Spirits hate me so? First you ask me to bond with a Lokkadonian woman. And second you ask me to go on a quest that could quite literally take months, or even years.”

“That Lokkadonian woman, is a way for us to heal our damaged Kingdom. You know your duty.”

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“Lokkadonian woman?” Daniel asked, his curiosity piqued.

“Illya of House Ignos.” Alektor declared, earning a few gasps from the table. “I will not discuss this now with any of you. My decision is final. Turak, please continue.”

Illya was being forced to marry Turak? Daniel’s mind raced at the revelation. Damn, that’s not going to end well at all.

Turak sighed heavily, and looked around the room. “Fine. But I’ll need someone powerful to help me.”

“Name them.” Alektor said.

“I need Malak.” Turak looked at one of the royal guards standing at the edge of the room. Daniel turned and saw just another elite warrior wrapped in a grey cloak, wearing a bone mask. The warrior nodded.

Alektor turned to Athica. “Are you alright with this, Athica? He is your royal protector after all.”

The Visgo queen nodded. “He will be of a lot more use, protecting a Spirit-Sent, than hovering around me all the hours of the day. Let him go.”

“Very well. It is settled then.” Alektor brought his hands together. “In addition, I will be sending two squads of my personal royal guard. As well as diplomatic orders to meet and deal with the three kingdoms in Dominicia. If you intend to go somewhere else. Send me word, and I will ensure the proper documentation is made.”

“Thanks, Alektor,” Daniel said, his voice laced with determination. “We’ll find who we can, and bring them back here.”

As Daniel left the study, making his way to the practice yards where he could clear his mind through physical exertion, the political weight of his mission settled upon him. He moved through his forms, each motion a blend of combat practice and a meditation on the challenges ahead.

Footsteps approached, breaking his concentration. Turning, he saw Katrina approaching with a practice blade of her own in hand, her presence both comforting and challenging.

“You look tense,” she remarked, her voice subdued as she stepped into the practice circle.

Daniel started to stretch, feeling the tension in his muscles. “We’ve got lots to prepare for. Just making sure I’m not getting rusty with all this sitting around.”

Katrina chuckled, a sound that momentarily lifted the weight of his responsibilities. “We just got back from the road, Dan. We haven’t had a chance to just sit around.”

Daniel shrugged. “You want to have a match?”

“Oh?” She gave him a fierce look, “Why do you think I came out here?”

The two fought three bouts. Daniel managed to eke out two victories of the three. But the one he lost left him with a painful reminder on his head that she was not to be underestimated.

The two sat panting on one of the stone benches. Katrina drank deeply from a water skin, and handed it over to Daniel, who did the same.

Now that the elation and adrenalin from the fight was starting the fade, the familiar awkward silence fell over them, blanketing them in melancholy.

“So, when are you going to talk about what happened?” He asked her, staring at the torn sand of the practice circle.

He felt the sudden change in the atmosphere as soon as the subject was broached. She sighed, glancing at him. “It’s… I saw things, Dan. I can’t explain it. It was… a vision or something. I saw how Pelemont fell into darkness. I saw millions of Dae, being torn apart by monsters. Cities burning… and. I saw everyone dead.”

Daniel didn’t speak, just gave her time to continue.

“I saw how it all began… with the death of Alektor and Avria. I saw how it plunged the entire kingdom into a second civil war. Then the creatures came; pouring out of portals or something. Dan, it was so horrible… I saw…”

Daniel put his hand over her shoulder, doing his best to comfort her. “I also saw what happened to me… you know, when you and I...”

Daniel coughed, “Yeah?”

“It was this horrible looking monster. With writhing tentacles and eyes all over it’s body. It planted something in my Dunem Dae Espa. Like a seed that was gently influencing me but growing. It made me think things I shouldn’t. But.”

“So, it was what you said.” Daniel nodded, feeling a pang of something he couldn’t even recognize in his chest.

“Dan,” She put her hand on his and gave him a reassuring smile. “I don’t care what that thing did to me. I don’t regret what happened. It was amazing, and it showed me what type of man you are. I… actually would be willing to continue that, you know… if you wanted to.” She shrugged in embarrassment.

Daniel was caught a bit off guard at the admission. He had thought she had moved far beyond any such thoughts. “I- uh.” He stuttered, a sudden weight settling in his chest. “Kat, that’s—”

“I know it's out of the blue,” Katrina said, her words escaping in a rush, tinged with a defensiveness that masked her own vulnerability. She looked away briefly, as if gathering her resolve. “Don’t worry about it right now. You’ve got your mission to focus on, and you don’t need the distraction. I don’t know how long you’ll be gone.” Her gaze returned to him, softer now, carrying a depth of understanding and acceptance. “But just know that things will be taken care of here. No pressure.”

Daniel blinked at her, still at a loss for words. “I get it.” He said, finally finding his tongue. “And I think you’re right.”

“It was dumb of me to mention anything now… right before you leave. Sorry.”

“No, Kat. It’s—”

“Ahem.” A forced cough stole their attention.

Daniel turned to see Avria and Nasha standing at the edge of the training field.

“Sorry to interrupt.” Nasha said, smirking. “But we have some pressing matters to go over with Daniel.”

“Sure.” Katrina said, pulling away from Daniel and approaching the two.

Daniel felt a tightness in his chest at the sudden intrusion, but made his way to them as well.

Avria nodded to him in greeting, and Nasha began. “From our reports of the Espi-Dunem, they have been extremely active in Visoth. Mainly in their western provinces. The Hegos there have been making quite the effort to eradicate them, but from what our spies are telling us; despite their efforts, their numbers have been growing.”

“Ok.” Daniel said, not really seeing how this information would change his mission in any way.

“They have also been reported, by our spies.” Avria interjected. “Using force on Spirit-Sent to keep them there. They have apparently used force on two different Spirit-Sent, in an attempt to bring them under their control.”

“So, what are you saying exactly?” Katrina asked.

“We are saying,” Nasha continued, her tone now laced with urgency, “is that we would recommend extreme caution, and perhaps consider a different mission altogether.””

Daniel crossed his arms. “I don’t think there will be a problem. We have some of the strongest Dae in Eleutheros with us, and I can take care of myself.”

“You also stick out like a pregnant Cro’Kan.” Avria said, “The risk is too great.”

“I might have a solution, Dan.” Katrina spoke up, bringing everyone’s attention to her. “I learned a really nifty ability a little while back.” Katrina smiled.

Avria raised an eyebrow at her. “Explain.”

Without saying a word. Katrina closed her eyes. She strained a bit, but within several seconds, she transformed into a complete copy of Avria herself.”

Daniel took a step back, shocked at the ability and Avria and Nasha’s eyes widened, in clear surprise.

“See?” Katrina chuckled, her voice carrying a hint of mischief. She stood before them, her form perfectly mimicking Avria down to the smallest detail. Even the way she imitated her signature scowl was an exact replica. “I can take on the form of anyone. I guess only powerful Dae can sense the disguise. I mean, Alektor saw through it, but if you can learn to use it, it would be really helpful in staying hidden. They won’t even know you’re a human being. Just tell everyone that you decided to stay in Vul De Rah with Telmos. Or go with Alektor back to Thule.”

Avria seemed to regain her composure, her initial shock giving way to a more analytical gaze as she studied Katrina's mirrored features. Daniel couldn’t blame her, the sight was bizarre, like looking into a living mirror, yet the reflection moved independently. “This is… unnerving,” Avria admitted, the word slipping out as she touched her own face, then Katrina's, confirming the illusion was indeed perfect.

“It really does look like you, Avria,” Nasha commented, her eyes twinkling with amusement. “Maybe a bit less wrinkles though.”

Avria rolled her eyes. “Well, as far as an alibi.” She leaned back and brought her hand to her chin, still looking at Katrina. “If you are insistent on going, then we will have to recreate your presence somewhere else. Vul De Rah has too many spies. The only solution is to say you are going to Thule with Alektor.”

“Ah.” Nasha laughed. “This will be fun for me. All I have to do is create little scenarios for you. Attending a party or having a small practice bout with witnesses. Something of that nature. Leave it to me.”

“Fine…” Daniel groaned.

“I trust you.” Katrina said to Nasha, starting to walk away. “I’m going to take a quick shower. Come by later for some training, Dan.”

“Katrina!” Avria barked after her.

Katrina turned around, alarm and confusion on her face.

“You will not walk around with my likeness.” Avria’s stern look, sent a shiver down Daniel’s spine.

“Oh!” Katrina laughed, “Sorry.” She closed her eyes, and a sheet of sand fell off her skin, revealing her own human skin beneath.

“That is a terrifyingly effective ability.” Nasha chuckled, watching Katrina turn and continue to leave. “It could be used for all kinds of mischief.”