There is a knock on Kaiden's bed chamber door which interrupts his thoughts. The unexpected sound surprises Kaiden, as they weren't anticipating any visitors since Wulfric had informed the staff not to disturb them for the afternoon. Kaiden suddenly remembers about Evelyn, she had mentioned she might come herself or send a scroll to them. He turns his attention towards the door, curious to see who's there if it is Evelyn herself or a palace servant.

Wulfric moves closer to the door, his voice firm and disciplined. "Please state your name and purpose," he says firmly. "No one is to disturb the Priestess at this hour. Speak up."

Kaiden cautiously moves closer to the door, attempting to catch the words spoken by the person on the other side. However, the voice is so delicate and soft that it is barely audible from his distance. He strains his ears to pick up the muffled conversation.

Wulfric makes a subtle gesture with his arm, signaling either for Kaiden to stay back or get out of sight. The meaning behind the gesture is somewhat unclear, but based on the situation, he assumes that it's a warning to avoid being seen. Obliging, Kaiden moves into Wulfric's shadow and the back of the door, hiding from sight.

Wulfric nods in acknowledgment, confirming that Kaiden has moved to a concealed area. He then carefully opens the door just enough to peek outside, engaged in conversation with someone. After a brief exchange, a dark figure clad in a cloak to conceal their face and body steps inside.

Kaiden is both intrigued and taken aback by the mysterious figure's appearance. He is puzzled by their cloaked figure, wondering why they are shrouded in darkness. However, as soon as Wulfric closes the door and gives the okay, the figure removes the robe, revealing themselves to be Evelyn.

Kaiden steps forward eagerly, his excitement palpable as he greets Evelyn. "Evelyn, it's you," he says, a note of joy in his voice. "I'm glad to see you again." He gazes at her with a warm smile, relieved to have another familiar face present.

Evelyn's gaze locks onto Kaiden, and she bows respectfully. "Priestess," she says, her tone formal and sincere. "It is a pleasure to see you once again." As she stands upright again, her eyes glance over to Wulfric and back to Kaiden, clearly signaling that she has come for a specific purpose.

Wulfric moves closer to Evelyn, his tone serious and direct. "What happened? Did you talk to Roheisia?" he asks. "Will she do anything about the three Elders?" He stands beside her, awaiting her response, his expression a mix of determination and concern.

Kaiden observes Evelyn as she fidgets with her fingers, her body language betraying her unease. As she speaks, her tone is serious, signaling that the news she brings is not lighthearted.

Evelyn looks troubled as she speaks. "The Head Elder Roheisia has discussed the matter with the Council further, but they have determined that it's not serious enough to warrant action," she informs them. "They have decided to listen to Carwyn, Alaric, and Elowen's perspectives on the matter." She pauses, clearly unhappy with the decision.

Evelyn's voice carries a note of triumph as she explains the Council's decision. "After the Council had all the facts laid out before them, there was a vote," she says. "Thankfully, we won the vote, which resulted in Carwyn being kicked out of the Council permanently. Alaric and Elowen did not like this decision, so when Carwyn left, they followed him, effectively removing all three of them from their positions as Elders."

Kaiden lets out a sigh of relief as he processes the news, then poses a question to Evelyn. "This is a good thing, right?" he asks curiously, hoping to hear affirmation from her.

As Evelyn averts her gaze, avoiding eye contact with Kaiden, Wulfric takes the lead in addressing the situation. His voice is calm and collected, tinged with strategic knowledge.

"Now that they've left the Elder Council, they're on their own," he notes. "They don't have the backing of the Palace or Elder Council anymore, which means they have no support or resources." He pauses, his eyes shifting sideways for a moment. "However, they could become problematic soon or farther down the line."

Kaiden looks at Wulfric for guidance, his expression now tinged with worry. "What do we do then?" he asks, seeking clarity on the way forward.

Evelyn chimes in, her tone firm yet measured. "The Council has stated quite clearly that they will not be involved in this matter," she explains. "They don't interfere in conflicts, so the Palace Guards or Celestial Warriors will have to deal with the situation if there's any trouble."

Wulfric lets out a frustrated huff as he rolls his eyes. "How typical," he mutters, his voice laced with annoyance. "The Council starts the problem and then expects everyone else to clear up the mess. Classic."

Evelyn offers a counterpoint, her voice measured. "It's not always the Council who starts trouble," she clarifies. "Sometimes, it's the military that causes problems, forcing the Council to step in and resolve the situation through peaceful negotiations."

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Wulfric is about to respond but stops himself. He glances at Evelyn and then nods in agreement. "You're right," he admits. "There are problems on both sides, but there's no point in arguing about it. We need to focus on the bigger picture."

Both Kaiden and Evelyn exchange perplexed glances at Wulfric's cryptic words. They each start to ponder what he means by the "bigger picture" as their minds generate different possibilities and interpretations.

Wulfric's voice is firm and resolute as he clarifies his statement. "Our primary priority is safeguarding Kaiden," he declares, his words laced with assurance and conviction. "We must guarantee his safety and enable his success."

Evelyn affirms her agreement, her voice confident and committed. "Absolutely," she says. "I'll provide support from my position in the Elder Council. I'll share any information that could pose a threat or a hindrance to the Priestess."

Kaiden expresses his gratitude, addressing both Evelyn and Wulfric. "Thank you," he says softly but sincerely. Then, he turns to Wulfric and asks, "What do you suggest is the most effective course of action right now?"

Wulfric contemplates their options for a moment before speaking firmly. "For now, we wait," he asserts. "We will take things one day at a time and monitor the situation. Without knowing the three Elders' plans or intentions, it's difficult to formulate any specific countermeasures. We need more information before deciding on our course of action. So, we must be patient and vigilant."

Evelyn nods in agreement, acknowledging the necessity of their course of action for now. "It may not be ideal, but for now, it's our best option," she states. "I must return to the Council Chambers, though, so I need to bid you farewell."

Kaiden regards Evelyn sadly, visibly disappointed that she must leave so soon. "You just got here," he points out, a hint of pleading in his voice. "Is there no way you can stay longer? Perhaps you could even help me practice for the ritual tomorrow?"

Evelyn's expression is saddened as she replies to Kaiden, her voice filled with regret, "I'm sorry, Kaiden," she says. "I'm unable to assist you with the ritual. The vow we take prevents us from involvement. Only the Head Elder is authorized to provide guidance and participate in rituals of this nature. My apologies."

Kaiden replies with a mix of resignation and optimism, "It's alright," he says, attempting to hide his disappointment. "I understand. Perhaps we could hang out another time." A smile appears on his face as he speaks, the corner of his mouth tugging up slightly.

Evelyn looks at Kaiden with confusion. “What is this hangout? We do not have this word or phrase. Could you explain?” She asks with a polite smile and intrigue in her tone.

Kaiden chuckles lightly at Evelyn's confusion. "Ah, I apologize for the confusion," he says apologetically. "When I say 'hang out,' I mean spending time together, engaging in activities, and enjoying each other's company. It's simply a phrase that means to socialize and have fun together."

Evelyn nods her head in understanding and smiles warmly as she prepares to leave. "I see. It sounds good to me," she says. "For now, I shall take my leave. However, in the future, we can indeed make plans to ‘hang out together’." She offers a friendly smile before turning to leave.

Wulfric bows respectfully as he thanks Evelyn, his voice filled with appreciation. "Thank you, Elder Evelyn, for everything you've done for us," he says sincerely. "We will make sure to keep in touch and communicate with you as time progresses."

Evelyn places her hand gently on Wulfric's shoulder, her tone soft yet firm. "There's no need for you to bow to me, Celestial Warrior," she says. "You and the Priestess are the ones I should be bowing to. We will indeed keep in touch. May Astralyn bless you."

"Thank you," Wulfric replies as he straightens up. Evelyn withdraws her hand, and he responds with a nod. Evelyn then bows courteously before her departure, addressing the pair. "Farewell for now, until we meet again." She then gracefully moves to the exit and goes through the door. Leaving Kaiden and Wulfric once again Alone in the bed chamber of the palace.

Kaiden's mind is flooded with thoughts and memories of the events that have unfolded over the past few days. A yawn escapes him and a weariness settles upon his shoulders. Despite feeling tired, he still harbors a desire to stay awake a bit longer and practice for the ritual once more.

Wulfric looks at Kaiden with a gentle and thoughtful expression. "It's been a long day," he says gently. "You should get some rest so that you're fully rested for tomorrow. You mustn't appear tired during the ritual proceedings." He points towards the bed, underscoring the need for Kaiden to relax and prepare for the upcoming ritual.

Kaiden tries to protest, attempting to resist Wulfric's recommendation. "I'm not tired," he insists, his words undercut by the involuntary yawn that escapes him. "I really want to practice the movements one more time before tomorrow."

Wulfric responds patiently, but with a firm tone that exudes parental authority. "You've already practiced the movements over a dozen times since returning to your room," he points out, his voice measured and caring. "You'll be fine. We can practice one more time tomorrow morning, okay? But for now, please go to bed." He insists with gentle firmness.

Kaiden's initial resistance slowly falters as he realizes that he's not likely to win this argument against Wulfric's resolute words and insistence. He reluctantly makes his way to the bed but stops before getting in, a thought crossing his mind. Loden. He wonders about Loden’s whereabouts and well-being.

Kaiden broaches a question, his voice quieter than before. "Have there been any updates on Loden?" He queries, hoping for some news. Wulfric responds by shaking his head, and then points towards the bed, signaling an end to the conversation and implying that Kaiden should go to sleep.

Kaiden gets into bed but hesitates before pulling the blanket over him, raising a final query. "Will you be waking me up tomorrow or will Loden do it?" he asks, looking up at Wulfric expectantly.

Wulfric wordlessly carries out his tasks, dimming the lights in the room with simple motions. As he douses the final light near the door, he replies to Kaiden's question with uncertainty. "I don't know," he admits. After turning off the last light, Wulfric prepares to exit, whispering "Good night, Priestess," before quietly closing the door behind him, leaving Kaiden alone in the darkened room, enveloped by silence.

Kaiden lies back, gazing at the ceiling as thoughts swirl in his mind. He adjusts his position in bed, striving for comfort, and as he settles in, the darkness around him begins to cast its gentle spell. With each passing moment, an increasing sense of tranquil oblivion beckons him to surrender to sleep.