"A storm appears to be brewing up from afar," Xhiamas said as they heard the sound of thunder and walked towards the council chamber where Byronard was waiting. "It appears so," Uriel responded. "Come, we're almost there." It only took a few minutes before they reached their destination. Uriel opened the metal doors to reveal Michael, Khandem the dwarven emissary, and the crown regent seated and waiting for their arrival.
"Good, you're here. Please be seated--We have important matters to discuss. I trust you found the city to your liking these past few days?" Byronard asked the group as each found a comfortable place to sit down and listen to what the regent had to say. "Words cannot express how amazing the Capital is, Sir Byronard. We had high expectations already, but consider those expectations completely shattered. From the food to the scenery and culture--everything was outstanding." Godric responded on behalf of the group. "The royal guards were also very accommodating. A few of them even took the time to spar with us. We lost, of course--but it would be safe to say that we learned quite a lot." Wyatt added, further cementing their bewilderment regarding what the Capital City had to offer.
Byronard nodded. "Good. I'm glad you found the new environment stimulating enough. Now, let's move on to why I called you here." He stood up from his seat and positioned himself at the center of the room. All eyes and ears were now focused solely on the captain of the Royal Guards as sunlight seeped into the room and cast shadows in the early morning.
"To start: We've all received word that Flint has awoken--but he is still in bad condition. Lord Dunwick and I already agreed in a previous discussion to let him stay here until he is well. Regarding Lord Caine's sentence, the Seven and I will look over that matter ourselves." Byronard said to the sound of reassured praises from the others.
"Cassian, Wyatt." He called out their names. "Lord Caine was quite adamant in accusing you of being criminals, so I tasked Uriel here to look into each of your stories. It did not surprise us when we found that you were wrongfully convicted. By the authority vested in me by the crown, you are freed from all allegations or false crimes and may walk as free men again. As the crown regent of Primera, I offer my deepest apologies for the actions caused by such undisciplined soldiers." Byronard then turned to Xhiamas.
"And you, Xhiamas--or if that truly is your name. Yours is an odd case. Uriel also attempted to delve into your records but found nothing. As expected." Xhiamas smiled at the remark.
"My companions would laugh at me if my identity were discovered with such ease." He continued, but he suddenly froze as his expression changed. "I know you are there. There is no need to hide." Out of nowhere, a figure slowly emerged from the shadows cast from the chair where Godric was seated. Godric jumped out of his seat in surprise as did the rest of them, except for Xhiamas, Michael, and Byronard. Slowly, a young man who was as tall as Xhiamas fully emerged. He had a light brown complexion with rough features and small, black streaks were visible across his body. He scanned the room and slowly walked toward Xhiamas, his eyes laser-focused.
"Even when shrouded, I'm unable to surprise you. I truly do admire your skills." The man said as he let out a disappointed sigh.
"It's you," Wyatt muttered under his breath. "You were the stranger we met at Rosetown and the same one I saw speaking with Xhiamas at Shire's Eye. Who are you?" The stranger looked at Wyatt with a confused expression and looked back at the scout. "Xhiamas? Is that the name you go by these days? How so?" He asked to the confusion of everyone in the room.
Xhiamas stood up in an attempt to clear the air of any questions. "My friends, this is Ziyad. A renowned warrior from our land...and my brother." Stunned silence filled the room as everyone attempted to make sense of the situation. "You have a brother?" Cassian asked in disbelief. "You never told us you had one." He continued.
"It was information that I deemed unnecessary to share. And for the right reasons as well." He replied as he stared daggers into Ziyad. "We have all known that strangers are treacherous--but family members are even more so," Xhiamas responded. Ziyad frowned and shook his head. "Brother, so cold-hearted as usual. Time away from home has not opened up your heart to us."
"That place was never my home to begin with, Ziyad. There is a reason why I left. I thought you would do the same and walk the same path as I did, but I can see now that I was wrong." Michael stood up and marched directly between the two siblings, who now inched closer to each other.
"All right, that's enough. We all know you're well acquainted, but let's focus first on the matter at hand." The two then stepped back, with Xhiamas seated back on his chair as Ziyad sat cross-legged on a stone table. "My apologies for the sudden intrusion. Our land is more...direct when it comes to settling disputes." The stranger said as he looked at Byronard.
Byronard gave a nod of gratitude. "Apology accepted. Now where shall we start? Ah yes. As you all can see, we have Khandem, the dwarven emissary." He looked at the dwarf, who seemed ecstatic.
"How you all doin' lads? I see even humans have problems when it comes to family reunions as well." He said, chuckling. "You're all a bunch of spirited ones, I like that." He continued as he looked at every one in the room.
"Indeed they are, old friend. You see; Khandem here is returning north to the dwarven capital of Ghor Nheram to share what was discussed during the recently concluded proceedings. Given that all of you are free, it would be safe to presume that you would not refuse a request from the Capital itself?" Byronard asked.
Wyatt and Cassian turned to Xhiamas, the de facto leader of their group. They both knew they would not have made it this far without his help and waited for his word. The Arrow, without looking, immediately spoke to both of them. "If you are worried about my consent, there is no need to do so. You are free men--free to do whatever you please, even if you initially wanted to join the brotherhood." He said as he turned to Wyatt.
"I only promised your father to watch over you and direct you to a better life and give you a second chance. But you have grown, young one. I do not see myself looking after you any more. Also, this is that second chance that your father desperately wanted you to have. Seize it while you can." Xhiamas explained.
Wyatt looked at him with a look of gratitude. "We won't let you down. Thank you, Xhiamas, for everything." He turned to Byronard, who eagerly awaited Wyatt's response.
"What is to be done?" Wyatt asked the regent, who smiled at the remark. "Without hesitation. You truly are the Blackwood's son."
Khandem looked at him, surprised. "He's the Ironhand's runt?" Khandem jumped over the table and quickly approached Wyatt. "Hold out your hand for me, son." Wyatt extended his left arm and the emissary held onto it tight. Khandem then screamed out what seemed to be a spell as the room burst into a flash of light that blinded everyone. When their vision was restored, Wyatt and Khandem were surrounded by a circle of what appeared to be hardened magma.
"Well, the Smith himself be damned--you are his son!" Khandem exclaimed in excitement.
"Which is why I thought it'd be best to send him north to accompany you, good friend," Byronard said from afar. "I feel the dwarves will have much to offer you, Wyatt. The dwarves were your father's friends in his youth. He learned almost everything he knew from them. Is the Hermit still...?" He asked Khandem, who nodded in response. "Who knows? At best, the old one's still up in the mountains, minding his own business. But I believe he's still alive--I think." The emissary grumbled, leaving Godric's group confused.
"Wherever Wyatt's going, count me in!" Cassian exclaimed. "I don't have anything going for me as of the moment, and I've never been up north. I'd like to see what's up there before returning to practicing medicine." Byronard approved the man's request.
"Very well then. Also, Cassian, as you can see, we are a bit short of doctors here in the Capital as Raphael prefers to handle everything by himself, but I spoke with him to open up positions to at least lighten his time from work. Would you like to be taken under his wing? I'm sure he'll enjoy the company. I can make arrangements to do so--only say the word." Byronard offered Cassian, whose eyes gleamed with joy. "O-of course!" He stuttered, bewildered at the offer. "It would be my greatest honor to learn from the best!"
Godric then stood up, believing it was the right time to proclaim his intentions. "I'll go north as well." He said.
"No. I'm afraid you'll do no such thing, Godric." Byronard responded, which caught the young man off guard.
"Sir Byronard, with all due respect, may I ask why?" Godric asked, curious about the regent's words. "This is because I am sending you in a different direction altogether. To be more specific, east." Byronard said as he pointed to a map of the known world carved into the wall of the council chamber.
Godric studied the map and where the captain of the Royal Guard was pointing, which gave him a mixed sense of excitement and confusion. "Azane?" Godric asked. "You want me to cross the Evergleam Ocean and head to the Continent of Sand? But what would I do there?" He continued, intrigued by the developments. "I would also like to know why you want to send young Godric to my homeland." Xhiamas stepped in between the two. "As far as I remember, Azane is untamed. Our clans are still engaged in conflict, and sending him there; a foreigner, would only put his life in danger." Godric was caught off guard as the Arrow's demeanor suddenly shifted.
"I can agree with my brother's words," Ziyad spoke from the corner of the room. "He'll die a brutal death. I can assure you of that."
Byronard walked toward the map and turned until he could see everyone. "This is because I believe Godric's talents are wasted here. Michael shared something quite intriguing before the duel started." Byronard said as he turned to face the group. "What did you find?" Xhiamas asked him as the regent turned to Michael, who stood and faced Godric.
"Godric, may I ask what your foundation of magic is?" Michael questioned the young man.
"Well...I can only fortify my unarmed attacks with mana--I learned this by accident during a quest inside the Caverns of Araphne." Godric replied.
"I see. So this associates you under the foundation of Fortification--a rare trait. Those with enough knowledge can fortify their bodies with mana, but only for defense and never for offensive measures. You are the first person in over six decades to have this skill, with the last one being my predecessor--even Sir Byronard himself does not possess this skill." Michael explained. "This is where things get...complicated. At the arena, I saw you trace the flow of mana that still lingers in the structure, presumably a trick you learned from the elves. But the thing that I found intriguing was that you jolted back after the mana surged into your body."
"Wait...how did you know?" Godric asked, shocked at Michael's revelation.
"I was born with the rare ability to feel and manipulate metals. I can bend them to my will, and change their entire form, malleability, or strength in any way I desire. My magic enables me to lift my great sword, nor would I have been able to deflect the blow from Wyatt's hammer. That moment, you paused in the arena, I could feel as if the metals all around me speak and my control over it being overturned--with the source being you." The royal guard explained.
"Impossible," Ziyad suddenly approached the table after he had heard the revelation. "That cannot be--surely you jest." He then looked at Godric in a different light, almost as if he had seen the Divines themselves. "Godric, I am not saying that I do not trust Michael, but I need concrete evidence. Everyone, brace yourselves." Byronard said as the room was enshrouded in vivid lights. The sight was a spectacle to behold, and everyone observed in awe. Moments passed and everything went back to normal.
"That was a simple trick I learned in my youth. Back then I used this for games and entertainment, but I need you to be completely honest with me, Godric." Godric felt the regent's words burn into his mind. "Which part of the room shines the brightest for you?" He asked to the confusion of the others. Wyatt and the other people in the room looked around to find nothing out of the ordinary, but Godric looked at the carved map and suddenly, an unknown memory entered his mind. Without hesitation, he pointed to a place familiar to all citizens of Primera. Godric suddenly stood as if he were in a trance, while his eyes were filled with a marbled, polished hue.
"There, Mount Dorba. At the site where the Civil War ended." Godric said in a monotone voice as the original color of his eyes returned and the boy snapped back to reality. "A memory entered my mind after I caught a glimpse of it. It was only for a brief second, but I was holding the body of someone unfamiliar to me. He had golden hair and angelic features. His armor was in ruins, and his body was wounded all over--but he died with a smile on his face." His voice then waned as he felt anger, despair, and grief consume him all at once, which scared him.
"...W-what is going on? Who was that?" The young man asked Byronard as he stumbled onto the ground. "I'm sorry for doing that, Godric. But I needed proof. You saw a memory of me holding the late King Alaric in my hands after the war ended. The elves are also known to trace signs of mana, which I believe was a skill you learned during your time in their realm, but to prove that you were an empath, I had to burn a significant memory of mine into the map. Were you not one, the memory would go unnoticed." Byronard explained as he helped Godric up to his feet.
Xhiamas approached Byronard with haste. "This is impossible. No mortal can ever have two foundations of--" His voice trailed off. "No. It cannot be." He then grasped Byronard's shoulder guard. "Do not do this--please. This is a risk we cannot take. My people have shed blood because of this. If they know, you risk throwing Azane asunder. Do not take away the little peace that we are struggling to maintain. I beg of you." Xhiamas pleaded. Strange, rhythmic hums akin to worship were heard from the room's side. They saw Ziyad on his knees with his hands outwards as he prayed in a foreign language.
"Uhrihim! Magaz-val sulyek, vagar-val suldafin. Nadur ashtirinah-tuuhri!" Ziyad wailed to the heavens. He covered his face with his hands and extended his palms outward to the sky as if calling out to some unknown deity.
Wyatt went over to Coraline and Cassian's side and shifted to a defensive stance. "What's with him? What's going on with Godric?" He asked as Ziyad repeated the chants and actions as if he were possessed. The words echoed throughout the chamber halls. Despite not knowing the language, the others felt an eerie chill crawl up their spines.
"Stop it, Ziyad. You are scaring them." Xhiamas spoke to his brother with little success. The man was fully committed and ignored the world around him. "I am asking--no, pleading, that you do not send him to Azane, Sir Byronard. If you want evidence, here it is in the flesh." He said to the crown regent, his voice now filled with agitation.
"I'm sorry, Xhiamas. But I am left with no choice. Because of the recent events, the other Great Houses and I are convinced that the disappearance of House Polifio and Rosetown is merely the start of something bigger than Primera has ever seen since its conception. We have to be prepared. As acting regent, I would do anything to ensure that this land and its people will survive. Anything." Byronard looked at Xhiamas with conviction. The atmosphere in the room was tense as things began to spiral rapidly into chaos, but the regent calmed himself before he could say something he could regret.
"I know what I am doing is insane--a dreamer's hope at best, but what would you have me do?" He asked as he took a seat at the table. His eyes were weary, and for the first time, looked desperate. "We are faced with an unknown threat. Panic is spreading like wildfire throughout the lands. The dreaded beasts up north are stirring for the first time in hundreds of years and a Great House has disappeared like the wind. I am tired. I would be lying if I said I could shoulder all of this on my own." Byronard said as the group felt sorry for him. At that moment it dawned on them that the Sword of the Morning was still as human as they were.
Godric silently approached Byronard. "When shall I leave, Sir Byronard?" He asked. "You understand that if you continue, there is no turning back, Godric," Xhiamas warned him. "I won't lie, I'm afraid as well, Xhiamas. I barely know what is happening, but I can't sit by and watch while everyone is doing their part." Godric replied. Byronard looked up and breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you, lad. You have no idea how much this means to me." The regent let out a weak smile.
Coraline slowly raised her hand, which caught everyone's attention. The lady was eager to ask a question or two. "Pardon me, my lord," she asked Byronard. "I have so many questions. If I may, how come Godric possesses two foundations of magic, and why send him to Azane of all places?" Coraline wanted answers, as did everyone else. "I want to know too, milord. What's going on with Godric?" Cassian inserted himself into the conversation, eager to know. Wyatt stood in silence and exchanged looks with the regent, who knew what was already on the young man's mind.
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"I believe it would be best if I were the one to shed light on this situation for I already understand what Sir Byronard is planning to do," Xhiamas said. "Also, a child of the sands is better suited to explain our own beliefs rather than foreigners--I meant no offense, of course." He looked at Byronard who chuckled at the response. "No offense taken. Please, be my guest." He replied as he gave Xhiamas the reigns.
"To start, Azane is very much like the Primera of old: bloody, chaotic, and unforgiving," Xhiamas said as he walked around the chamber to ensure everyone could hear him. "Regions of Azane are controlled by three tribes of royal status, entangled in a three-way deadlock for power, wealth, and the most dangerous of all, faith." He continued with a grim look on his face.
"Faith? But isn't that supposed to be a good thing?" Coraline asked. "Too much of something good is dangerous, young one. My brother is proof of that." They looked at Ziyad, who remained committed to his prayers, unbothered.
"There is a story rooted deeply in Azanean culture. Long ago, the continent was not the near-barren wasteland that you see it to be now. Everything was perfect: glistening waters, the regions all teeming with wildlife, and yet, no being had ever come across it--even the elves and abussonians themselves, who are known as the first creations of your gods." The scout narrated. "Then, as the stories go, a stranger stumbled onto the continent and decided to return to the known world and inform everyone he knew of what he had discovered in hopes that those who believed him could settle into this new world. I believe this event is known to you Primerans as the Evergleam Voyage, no?" Xhiamas asked the group.
"Wait, that must be a mistake," Godric said. "The story about the voyage talks about the exile of criminals and the most evil of people across the ocean to distant lands as punishment for their sins. It's a children's tale that adults tell their children to avoid doing bad things." He continued as the room fell silent.
Michael then let out an amused laugh. "I get it now. That's quite hilarious." He muttered to himself. "What is it?" Cassian asked him, confused.
"The Evergleam Voyage. Its all a huge lie. Think about it. In the past, Primera was nothing but a mess. Death, famine, war; everything wrong in the world was found right here. If you were to start anew, wouldn't you attempt and seize every opportunity possible?" Michael explained.
"Well...that is true. But calling them criminals is too much, is it not? Why not explorers, or voyagers?" Coraline asked the royal guard.
"Good point, my lady. Unless...someone intentionally twisted the story midway." Michael replied as Byronard looked at him with an odd look. "Something on your mind, Michael?" Byronard seemed intrigued by Michael's statement. "If memory serves me right; the story of the Evergleam Voyage took place around the time when this great kingdom was first established by King Unrel of House Ilyn. I think it would be disadvantageous for him to have his subjects leave him for a new settlement, a peaceful one at that. What if some of the first inhabitants of Azane were from Primera? And the king branded all those who followed their footsteps as criminals?" The royal guard's words had a ring of possibility to them.
"I think that's enough of a dive into Primera's history for one day, Michael," Byronard cut the conversation short. "Let's allow Xhiamas to continue," Michael responded with a nod as all eyes and ears were focused back on Xhiamas.
"He is not far from the truth, you know. One of the royal tribes is actually of Primeran descent. They have magic that I can describe to be similar to yours, which I could explain why their tribe has remained in their seat of power for this long." Xhiamas revealed to them. "A foreign tribe of Primeran descent? Fascinating!" Coraline said in awe. "It would be wise to not jump into positive remarks, my dear. They're quite...different from what you expect from a Primeran. It would be best if one would never cross paths with their tribe." Xhiamas continued as Coraline withdrew the smile from her face.
"Moving on, the story then goes on to say that the first people who followed the stranger chose him as their leader. We call him Al-Xenos, the foreigner. Our people revere him as a god, even to this day. Tales say he held great powers that propelled the first kingdom of Azane to prosper. Like Godric, he also possessed the ability to have multiple foundations of magic." Xhiamas said as he looked at Godric, who took in the story with doubt.
"The people who followed him were given the status of royalty and established their tribes, who were then tasked to rule over different regions of Azane. But on one fateful day, the land was struck with a terrible storm that defied the very laws of nature, which turned Azane into the wasteland that it is today. Azanean culture depicts it as a punishment given by the gods themselves to the people for desecrating their precious creations." Xhiamas said as he gazed at the map, to where Azane was located.
"And when it mattered the most, Al-Xenos disappeared and left the people to fight for themselves. Half of our people, including me, believe that the tragedy was caused by Al-Xenos himself as a test so that we could learn how to live by ourselves, and we no longer needed his direct guidance." He said as he then turned to his brother. "However, the other half turned into fanatics, and believed that Al-Xenos simply returned to the realm of the gods and waged war with them, fighting in our name to exact revenge for the lives that were lost in the disaster. They then believe that one day, when the war is finally over he will return, triumphant but weakened, and he will bid his time to regain the power that he once had. Al-Xenos left without mentioning which tribe would lead Azane into the new world, and so the land was split and descended into chaos, with the fanatics believing that only he could unite the land once more." Xhiamas said as he let out a wry chuckle. "It is a stupid story if I were to be honest."
"So...are you saying that half of the population of Azane would look at Godric as if he was their promised messiah?" Wyatt asked. "Exactly my point. Take a look at my brother; I think he is all the proof that you need." Wyatt looked at Ziyad and felt a discomfort like never before. "You're right. It is an unsettling sight." He said as Ziyad's prayers still echoed throughout the room. "But where does Godric fit into the grander scheme of things?" Wyatt asked.
"If I may, Xhiamas." Byronard said as Xhiamas stepped aside to give room for the regent. "Godric, I want you to immerse yourself in Azanean culture. Interact with its people, understand their ways, and come into talks with the ruling tribes. Hopefully, we'll be able to unite the continent into one, powerful nation--an allied nation that could help us in the war to come." Byronard placed his hand on Godric's shoulder.
"W-what war?" Godric asked.
"A war that this world has never seen before." One could hear a pin drop as Byronard uttered the words. Xhiamas looked at him, seemingly unsurprised at the revelation. "Uriel will go north as the leader of the expedition to accompany Wyatt, Cassian, and Khandem to Ghor Nheram, but he will personally take a quick detour afterward to locate Lord Rykard of House Wintertomb, who was unable to attend the proceedings for unknown reasons, and escort him here. Lord Rykard specializes in the study of science and the divine. His presence here was sorely needed, even more so after Uriel discovered--" Byronard stopped in his tracks, as he seemingly revealed too much information.
"Discovered...what?" Coraline asked. Byronard hesitantly looked at Michael, who nodded in response. "They're in too deep now, captain. They deserve the right to know." He responded.
The regent then scanned the room to ensure no one except for them was present, then a serious look befell his eyes. "Swear to the Divines that you will not share a word of what you hear moving forward." All of them looked at each other and silently swore an oath before the crown regent.
"Uriel...he discovered that the magic that lingered in Rosetown--it shares the same properties of Dante. The rebel leader of the Civil War." Byronard delivered the news to the shock of everyone. "That's impossible," Khandem said as he stood, stunned at the revelation. "It's true, old friend. I, out of all people, would recognize the malicious magic of that kingslayer anywhere." The regent replied.
"If he's planning to make a return, now would be the most opportune time. The frost drakes stirring trouble, the disappearance of House Polifio--it would be too good of a coincidence if these events started between such short intervals. The Great Houses believe we're escalating to an all-out war. Not just with Dante, but possibly against his kind as well. That murderer was no human, I could tell by how he moved. He managed to kill Alaric, who was by far, the greatest prodigy Primera had ever seen. Even at his young age, he had the potential to surpass even me. Were it not for his death, he'd done so already." They could hear that Byronard's words held a tinge of bitter sadness and regret. The royal guard truly did love and respect his king.
"Hold on--what do you mean, his kind?" Cassian asked in a panicked state. "My father fought for the rebels, and he always mentioned that Dante was a different beast altogether, akin to a demon. Are you saying that there's an entire army that is as terrifying as he is?"
"Not just an army, we've come to a presumption that the man belongs to a different race altogether. One that shares a similar structure with us mortals." Michael said. "Uriel also found traces of other lifeforms apart from Dante whose magic lingered in Rosetown. They shared the same magical constitution as he did. As you can tell if one of his kind was able to turn Primera upside down and kill one of its greatest warriors, imagine what an entire race would do. It would mean the end of the world." He explained with a grim look on his face.
"Which is why we need to stand united. Not just Primerans, but all who are on the side of life. Elves, abussonians, dwarves, along with other kingdoms. We've never seen eye to eye with other foreign lands, but they know the story of the Civil War well enough. Word about Rosetown's disappearance might have even reached their realms already." Byronard explained. "We're playing a dangerous game here, and Azane's unification and help is one of the pivotal pieces. I know it's a gamble, but we're at war. And we need every help we can get."
Xhiamas anxiously paced the room. The man had multiple thoughts racing in his mind, on whether the idea of a united Azane would even be possible. He knew it was a bold, yet dangerous move. Sending Godric was a risk; one that could either divide the nation further or finally bring the peace that his homeland desperately needed, and neither of the two would guarantee the young man's safety.
"If I may..." Ziyad rose from his prayers, seemingly invigorated with a newfound energy. "I think this is an opportunity that we never may come across again." He said as Xhiamas approached his brother and grabbed the collar of his clothing. "Do not start your fanatical nonsense here, Ziyad." His grip tightened with each passing second. "Xhiamas! Let's hear him out!" Wyatt and company pleaded with their friend.
"Brother--" Ziyad now had trouble speaking due to the vicelike grip his brother had on him, at this time he was nearly out of breath. "I know we had our differences..b-but believe me..we share the same goal--a united Azane..for..for our people!" He struggled to get the words out.
"Through senseless bloodshed?!" Xhiamas screamed. The mysterious, calm, and collected demeanor of the Arrow had now disappeared as he somehow turned into a different person altogether. "You try my patience, Ziyad. Choose your next words carefully."
"I know we have different approaches...but perhaps we can find a compromise--" The foreigner was gasping for air. "Think! For millennia, we waited for the one who could unite Azane.. this boy! He could be the key! If we can convince the tribes to unite under the premise of impending war--that vision...the vision that we both grew up together..we could achieve that!"
"Xhiamas, let him go! You're killing him!" Wyatt and Cassian now approached him in an attempt to loosen his hold. With an angry grunt, Xhiamas finally let go as his brother crumpled to the floor, gasping for air. Coraline rushed to his side to check if he was okay. "I'll live...I have been through worse." Ziyad said to Coraline. "You have never crossed me yet," Xhiamas replied. "Be glad that they were here."
Ziyad looked at his saviors and offered a sincere look of gratitude. "My greatest thanks to you all," he said as he was helped up to his feet. "My brother and I rarely see eye-to-eye, and I seem to bring out his worst. Apologies if you had to see our little..family squabble."
Xhiamas looked at Byronard, who could do nothing but look back at him with empty eyes. "I know I'm asking for too much, Xhiamas. But we need all the help we can get. Godric also needs someone to look after him while he's there. I've only been to Azane twice in my youth, and I'd be a fool to think I'd make it out alive myself. Besides, my place is here. You are the only person who I trust enough to guide him at this point. The decision is up to you." Byronard pleaded with him. The regent knew he had already crossed a line but knew that he had already run out of options. The others could hear the weariness in his voice. Byronard understood that he was at the mercy of Xhiamas' decision.
"Very well," Xhiamas said to Byronard's relief. "I will help him to the best that I can. But I cannot guarantee his safety once we are there."
"Understood. Godric, it'd be best if you prepare yourself for the journey, my boy. You'll be gone for some time. Things might be different once you return, that is, if you can." Byronard said. "I won't let you down, Sir Byronard--that, I can promise you."
"Huh. How'd I wish I'd met you sooner, lad. You would have been a fine Royal Guard." Byronard replied. "May the Divines bless your travels."
Coraline rushed in as soon as Byronard wished Godric safe travels. "Wait!" She said. "I want to help too!" Her voice was quivering, but no one could deny her bravery. "I applaud your courage, my lady, but neither the north nor Azane is a place for you," Michael said to the heir of House Applewood. "But I simply can't stand here while everyone is doing their part!" She replied.
"Which is why, dear one, I'll be sending you back to the South," Byronard said. "The Seven and I have been thinking, along with the heads of the other great houses, that another should take hold of the reigns whilst Lord Mikhael is gone. And we've all collectively decided that House Applewood would be bestowed that honor." Coraline was taken aback by the news. "M-my lord! Surely you jest! I mean no disrespect, it is an honor--but what about House Dewblossom?" Coraline asked him, still dumbfounded.
"Lord Isaiah is in no condition to lead. We've received word that his conditioning is worsening. We've already sent doctors to look after him, but they've told us that the chances of him surviving are slim. Lord Caine is still under trial, and his siblings have yet to come of age. Only your House has proven to be worthy of having a member hold the mantle of Warden, specifically, you." Byronard explained.
"By the power vested in me by the crown, and with all the witnesses who stand here before us today, I hereby name you Lady Coraline Applewood, Wardeness of the South. I'm sure you'll make us proud, my lady." Coraline stood, dumbfounded as the others gave her a round of applause. She lay frozen in place but managed to gain her bearings after Wyatt called her attention.
"I-I won't let you down, my lord. I swear it!" She said as her eyes glistened with conviction.
"I think that settles it then," Byronard said. "I'll take my leave now. In two days the expedition north will commence. Wyatt, Cassian, you can meet with Uriel or Khandem to discuss any plans you have in store." He continued as he turned to Godric and Xhiamas. "Godric, it would be best for you to journey east with Xhiamas on the same day as they will depart. Giving you time to prepare is the least that I could do. Lady Coraline, you are free to head back whenever you would like. News regarding your promotion would have already reached the South by now. Gabby looked into that matter immediately. This meeting is adjourned. You are all dismissed." Michael pounded his hand onto the stone table twice to signal the end, and everyone dispersed into their separate groups, with Godric accompanying Coraline, Wyatt, and Cassian, whilst Khandem, Byronard, and Michael went deeper into the Keep.
Xhiamas walked out alone but was stopped in his tracks as Ziyad held his wrist tight. "What now, Ziyad?" He asked.
"Brother, I know we had our differences, but you know that I never lie when it comes to matters concerning Azane. I was serious when I said the boy could solve this...concern of ours. On my honor as a shadow-walker, I swear my words were true." Ziyad replied. "Let me join you. Let me aid you in protecting the boy and help convince the others."
"Honor is a hard thing to come by these days, Ziyad," Xhiamas said as he stared daggers into his brother's eyes. "Very well. You may join us. But I warn you--make a move against the boy, and I will kill you where you stand." Xhiamas threatened him. "I wouldn't have it any other way." The shadow-walker replied as he let go of Xhiamas, who left his brother all alone in the council chamber, as his heavy, conflicted steps echoed throughout the marbled hallway, filling the keep with an air of anger.