The Empress begins to recount the tales of the celestial beings that govern their world, her voice echoing with reverence and authority. "In our world, there are four celestial creatures that have a profound impact on our lives," she begins. "Luminara the Stag governs the East, with her gentle guidance and wisdom. Vespera, the Fox, presides over the South, her agility and stealth protecting those who call that region home. Caelum, the Owl, rules the West, his keen sight and knowledge illuminating the path for all who reside there. Finally, our most treasured guardian, Astralyn the Wolf, rules the North, His loyalty and power allowing our empire to thrive.” The Empress continues her tale, her voice steady and calm. "The celestial beings, Luminara, Vespera, Caelum, and Astralyn, created mankind, bringing both tribulations and joys into the world. However, due to the conflicts and turmoil that arose among humans, these celestial beings developed differences and rifts within their ranks."

“The summoning of the Priestess from another world paved the way for conflict resolution by bringing a physical embodiment of the deity into existence,” the Caecilia explains. "Empires were able to end wars by harnessing the power of the celestial creatures, recognizing the priestess as the conduit for the deity. Additionally, warriors were specifically created to distribute power to humans, helping to balance the scales in conflicts and safeguarding the Priestess, who hosts the celestial being during the ritual’s completion.”

"It took several centuries for the Emperors to discern a pattern among the Priestesses summoned throughout time," the Empress reveals. "Each priestess was found to share a common bloodline, a lineage that transcended time and generations. Astonishingly, this bloodline remained consistent for all Priestesses of each celestial entity – Luminara, Vespera, Caelum, and Astralyn."

"Over the past 100 years, we have come to realize that the lineage of Priestesses has been severed for Vespera and Caelum, at least to our knowledge," the Empress explains. "The most recent summoning occurred with Luminara, and our own Priestess was also called upon around the same time, yet she failed in her attempt to summon Astralyn."

Kaiden, having absorbed a significant amount of information, chimes in with a query. "Wait, are you referring to Molly, my grandfather’s sister? What became of her? Why did she fail in her attempt to summon Astralyn?"

Caecilia takes a moment, her expression neutral before answering. "Yes," she replies with a nod. "Molly was the last priestess summoned at that time and unfortunately, she failed in her attempt,” Empress responds, her tone tinged with a hint of sorrow. "I'm afraid I cannot comment on the specifics of her failure, but I assure you, it was not due to a lack of effort or dedication on her part. Her subsequent disappearance only fueled the mystery surrounding her. We have never been able to discover the reason behind her failure, nor do we know what happened to her after the failed summoning."

Kaiden's confusion leads to a question, his curiosity piqued. "What do you mean by 'subsequent disappearance'?" he inquires, seeking clarification.

The Empress solemnly relays the events surrounding Molly's summoning of Astralyn, "During the ritual, things took a tragic turn. Everything was in order—the celestial warriors were gathered, and the scroll was being read when an explosion occurred. When the smoke cleared, Molly had vanished, but the only thing remaining was the priestess’s pendant linking her to Astralyn. Two of the celestial warriors sustained severe injuries, the cause of which remains a mystery."

As the Empress reaches into the silvery pouch, she carefully extracts a necklace, holding it up to the light and for Kaiden to see. The necklace gleams softly in the room's dim light, its delicate chain and intricate pendant on full display. Kaiden's eyes widen in recognition as he gazes upon the necklace. The familiar pendant, the very one he had discovered in his grandfather's attic, now hangs before him - the very object that was responsible for his transportation to this world.

The Empress holds the pendant carefully in her palm, the chain resting between her fingers. Her tone is filled with a mixture of solemnity and awe as she speaks. "This celestial pendant is said to be connected to Astralyn, and it is believed that a part of the celestial beast resides within," she explains, cradling the pendant with a sense of reverence. The Empress continues, her voice carrying gravitas. "Throughout your journey to find the warriors and summon Astralyn, this pendant must accompany you. It will serve as your guide and bestow you with strength.” She holds out the pendant towards Kaiden, waiting for him to accept it.

Kaiden's head shakes slightly as his mind stays fixated on Molly's whereabouts. His voice is filled with both concern and confusion, "But what ever happened to Molly? Wasn't there a search for her by the warriors? There had to be some sign or indication. She never returned to our world, so she must still be here, right?"

As Kaiden's anxiety about Molly's fate mounts, he feels an unexpected reaction – a surge of celestial power wells up in his chest, its energy coursing through him. Recognizing the need to regain control, he takes a moment to steady his breath, focusing on calming his heart rate and mind. As he does, the celestial power subsides, and the bubbling energy within his chest begins to ebb away. Loden standing silently against the wall, had been keenly attuned to Kaiden's intense emotions. Sensing the building tension, he subtly shuffles his position, expressing a hint of unease. Despite his discomfort, he remains dutifully in place, continuing to observe the exchange between Kaiden and the Empress.

The Empress noticing Kaiden's increasing agitation and sensing his inner turmoil, slowly rises from the bed, creating a physical distance between them. She speaks with a calm yet authoritative voice, aiming to ease the mounting tension. The Empress continues her explanation, her voice steady and measured. "The celestial warriors of that time engaged in an extensive search across the empire and beyond, scouring every inch in their quest to locate the priestess. However, their efforts yielded no tangible evidence or clues regarding her whereabouts. Only a handful of people considered the possibility that she had been transported back, but there was no indication from Astralyn that she had safely returned home," she states. The Empress explains further, her voice imbued with a mix of hope and uncertainty. "The scholars and the lineage of Emperors hold onto the belief that Molly is still within this world. However, despite our efforts and Astralyn’s attempts, we have thus far been unable to locate her. We hope she is safe and living out her days in comfort and pray that if it is her time to pass, the journey is without pain and suffering."

Kaiden takes a moment to internalize the Empress's words, delving beyond the surface level of her speech. He senses her genuine concern for Molly's well-being and the collective hope that both the people of this world and Astralyn himself have for her safe return or her safety and happiness. Deep within himself, Kaiden silently hopes that Molly is safe and at peace.

The Emperor standing by the side of the Empress, gently takes her hand, offering his silent support. He looks at Kaiden with sincerity and determination in his eyes. "Kaiden, I want you to know that both the Empress and I remain steadfast in our hope for Molly's safe return," he says firmly. "If any information presents itself that could lead us to her whereabouts, we will inform you promptly. We will not hesitate to mobilize all the resources at our disposal in our efforts to bring her back safely."

Kaiden nods in gratitude, his voice catching slightly as a few tears escape. The Empress responds with a soft "Ahm," sensing his vulnerability. She asks gently, "Is there anything else you wish to inquire about or discuss? Anything pressing that we can assist with?"

Kaiden composes himself and speaks up, his voice carrying through the room. " Astralyn mentioned there are other celestial warriors present within the walls of the city. We have encountered one of them already, but we don't have any clues on the whereabouts of the second one. Do you have any knowledge or information regarding these celestial warriors?"

The Emperor and Empress exchange glances, a mixture of surprise and intrigue on their faces.

The Emperor responds first, his tone thoughtful. "So far, we haven't received any reports or rumors about other celestial warriors within the city. Wulfric was the only one who came forward to declare his celestial status. At present, we are not aware of any other warriors who have made their presence known or is rumored to be present," he explains.

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The Empress chimes in, adding more information. "Wulfric has been tasked with searching for his fellow celestial warriors during his patrols around the city, but he has yet to uncover any new information. Your statement, that Astralyn mentioned there are two celestial warriors, is the only new piece of information that has come to light," she states, her voice carrying a note of concern.

Loden, his anger flaring, interrupts the conversation with a sharp tone. His gaze is locked on Wulfric, who remains across the room. "You haven't even bothered to look, have you?" he accuses, his voice filled with frustration.

Wulfric responds with a frustrated breath, his anger seething beneath the surface. "Don't accuse me of not trying. I have scoured the city for years in search of any signs or clues of another celestial warrior, but I found nothing. No hint, no trace of someone who could be one of the warriors of Astralyn," he sneers, his tone dripping with condescension. "You lowly peasant rodent," he retorts with a smug smirk.

Loden wastes no time in lunging across the room towards Wulfric, his anger igniting the start of a fierce brawl. The Emperor and Empress observe the scene unfolding before them, exchanging a glance and sighing in resignation. "They both have such hot tempers," the Emperor murmurs quietly.

Kaiden watches the heated exchange between Loden and Wulfric, his own anger and frustration building within him. When the fight escalates, he can no longer contain his emotions, and he shouts loudly enough to turn his face red. "Enough! Both of you grow up and stop fighting!" His voice echoes through the room, his patience and rationality pushed to the limit.

Loden and Wulfric pause mid-swing, their fists frozen in the air just inches away from each other. Taken aback by Kaiden's outburst, they turn their gazes toward him, surprise evident on their faces. Kaiden tosses aside the blanket covering his legs and stands firmly beside the bed, his determination clear.

Kaiden strides up to the Empress, his hand extended and palm facing upwards. He requests in a firm voice, "The pendant, please, your highness." The Empress, slightly taken aback, swiftly drops the pendant necklace into Kaiden's waiting hand.

Kaiden holds the pendant for a brief moment before unclasping it and placing it around his own neck. With a firm tone, he asserts his newfound authority. "I am the new priestess. You both will listen to me. No more fighting with each other. We have work to do." The pendant shines a silvery gleam against his skin for a brief moment before it begins to glow and then vanishes.

Wulfric and Loden exchange a quick sidelong glance at each other before turning their full attention toward Kaiden and assuming a kneeling position. They address him politely and respectfully in unison, "Priestess."

Kaiden moves between the warriors and the imperial family, positioning himself as the central figure. He speaks up, outlining his plan, "I have a plan to help us in finding the other warrior. Wulfric, Loden, and I will go on a walk throughout the city to search for the next warrior."

The Empress nods in agreement, but the Emperor's expression indicates dissatisfaction. He raises a question, his voice tinged with skepticism, "What exactly do you hope to achieve by going on a walk through the city with Wulfric and Loden? Are you anticipating a certain outcome?"

Kaiden responds with a swift nod, his tone confident. "Yes, your highness. My presence should help us locate the next warrior or draw their attention to us. The celestial energy might give us clues or even lead us directly to their location."

The Emperor grasps his chin contemplatively before nodding, signaling his understanding. He then turns to Wulfric and gives a direct command, with a stern expression. "You will accompany both the priestess and Loden on this mission. There is no room for staying at the palace to guard me during the day any longer. Your duty now is to loyally follow the priestess's lead. Have I made myself clear, Wulfric?"

Wulfric raises his head and responds obediently, "Yes, your highness." The Empress then claps her hands, expressing her pleasure. "Excellent! Since that matter is settled, let's all relax for the rest of the day. You three can embark on your search tomorrow."

Loden nods in agreement as he slowly rises back to his feet. Wulfric also stands up, giving a quick acknowledgment to the Empress, saying "Yes, your majesty."

The Emperor turns to Kaiden and gently places a hand on his shoulder before speaking. "We will let you rest for now until tomorrow. Please come see us in the throne room before you embark on your mission." The Emperor removes his hand and walks towards the door, the Empress following his lead.

Wulfric swiftly steps forward to open the chamber doors, allowing the imperial family to exit. The Emperor and Empress offer a brief, courteous smile as they depart, followed closely by Wulfric. Once the doors close, Loden and Kaiden find themselves alone in the room once again.

Loden approaches Kaiden slowly, his concern evident in his voice. "Are you alright? That was certainly quite a lot to take in, wasn't it?"

Kaiden shakes his head and walks back to the bed, sinking onto the edge of the mattress. He lets out a sigh and replies with a mixture of resignation and worry, "It was, and it wasn't at the same time. I didn't know any of this during my upbringing or when I first arrived. I'm still concerned that the same thing that happened to Molly could happen to me too."

Loden shakes his head with conviction, his determination evident in his words. "I wouldn't let that happen. We will safeguard you with our lives. There is still much ambiguity surrounding Molly's disappearance and the reason behind the warriors' inability to locate her," he asserts.

Kaiden turns his gaze toward Loden, a small smile and a chuckle escaping his lips as he comments, "Why do you have to provoke Wulfric like that? You're both warriors, you look like toddlers fighting over the same toy."

Loden runs his hand through his hair, a hint of frustration in his expression. "He just irks me so much, always acting all high and mighty, as if his skills are superior. Calling me a rodent is utterly impolite, and I despise that name being associated with those from lower social classes."

Kaiden shakes his head and gently rebukes him, "Forget about that for now. We will soon discover another warrior, and perhaps you and Wulfric might eventually find common ground." Kaiden lets out a soft laugh, and Loden nods in agreement, adding, "Perhaps."

Loden shakes his head, his tone filled with concern. "You should get some more rest. You'll need all your energy tomorrow for the walk. I'll stay here and keep watch until you doze off, then I'll head to my room next door."

Kaiden extends his hand towards Loden, stopping just short of making physical contact. He lets his hand fall back onto the bed, suggesting hesitantly, "Maybe you could stay here for the night? I'd feel more at ease if you were close by, if that's alright with you."

Loden shakes his head, indicating his agreement. "That's fine with me. I don't mind if it makes you feel more at ease. I doubt Wulfric will be returning any time soon to guard your room tonight." He moves closer and takes a seat on the chair near the bed. "Get comfortable and sleep," Loden says, gesturing for Kaiden to relax.

Kaiden shifts his body onto the bed, settling his head on the pillow. With a soft sigh, he lightly touches the pendant around his neck, contemplating asking Loden more questions about the revelations they had just heard. However, he decides against it and shakes his head, choosing instead to let his thoughts and curiosity rest for the evening.

Loden speaks softly, his voice slightly raspy from tiredness, "If you need anything during the night, just ask, and I'll arrange for someone to bring it." With a swift and smooth motion, he pulls out a blade from his boot, followed by a cloth from his pocket. He begins meticulously polishing the weapon, the faint scraping sound filling the otherwise silent room.

Kaiden responds with a drowsy yet grateful tone, "I'm good, thanks, Loden." He looks up at the ceiling, his thoughts quietly wandering, as he slowly drifts off into a tranquil sleep. The pendant gently dangles from his neck, resting peacefully on the pillow beside him.

Loden remains seated in the chair, meticulously polishing his blades as the night progresses. After each cleaning, he methodically lays each weapon on the table, constructing a small pile of carefully sharpened and gleaming weapons as the hours pass.

Loden meticulously completes his last small dagger with a thorough polishing, adding it to the growing stack of sharpened weapons on the table. Exhaustion gently tugging at his eyelids, Loden wipes away the tiredness and glances over at the sleeping Kaiden. Reflecting on their initial encounter, Loden ponders how far Kaiden has come and how much has already been thrown at the young man.

Loden's gaze softens with nostalgia as he reflects on the memories between them, but his attention is abruptly diverted as he senses a presence lurking beyond the door. With quiet, calculated movements, Loden reaches for one of the daggers from the table and slinks closer to the shadows near the entrance.

As the door silently creaks open, Loden instinctively braces himself, ready to confront the unknown figure. He swiftly positions himself behind the intruder, a dagger pressed against their throat. The soft moonlight streaming into the room reveals the identity of the late-night visitor. Recognizing the figure in front of him, Loden swiftly retreats, bowing as he offers an apology. "My apologies, my highness. I didn’t realize it was you..."

The Empress stands before Loden, her voice hushed as she replies, "It's alright, Loden. I didn't announce myself for a reason. There's a matter I'd like to discuss in private with you."

Loden raises his head and rises, a mix of surprise and curiosity in his voice. "Me, your highness?" he repeats. "What could we possibly need to discuss?"

The Empress gazes at the sleeping figure of Kaiden, then turns her attention back to Loden. Her voice is hushed yet firm as she speaks, "The truth regarding Molly's disappearance. This information is privy only to us two. Kaiden, the priestess, mustn't know about it until the right moment. Shall we continue our conversation in your room?" she suggests, motioning towards the door leading out of the room.

Loden casts a swift glance at Kaiden before turning to the empress who is already retreating out the door. Caught between conflicted loyalties, Loden follows her out, gently closing the door behind him. He leaves Kaiden to sleep soundly, the night outside waiting.