Kaiden was accompanied by Yetta and Cerelia within his chamber room. The small group approached the door with a blend of anticipation and reverence. Yetta stepped aside, her movements graceful and measured, allowing the door to swing open smoothly. As the doorway revealed the courtyard beyond, Kaiden ventured forth, the midmorning sunlight caressing his form.
The courtyard outside his room was bathed in mid-morning sunlight as Kaiden stepped out, its golden glow casting a warm hue on the surroundings.
Wulfric and Loden stood just beyond the door, the two warriors speaking with one another still. Their gazes turned to be fixed on Kaiden as he emerged from the room. The two exchanged a surprised look, their eyes widening in awe as they took in the sight of Kaiden in his new attire and the female servants who accompanied him. Their speechlessness conveyed a mixture of amazement and astonishment at the transformation that Kaiden had undergone. Both men found themselves momentarily speechless, their attention fully captured by the striking scene before them.
Kaiden's words carried a hint of shyness as he adjusted the garment slightly, seeking Wulfric and Loden's approval. "Gideon didn't turn it into a two-piece like I asked, he kept it like an dress instead. Is it still acceptable?" His eyes met theirs, a mixture of curiosity and vulnerability in his gaze. Wulfric and Loden exchanged a brief glance once again, their expressions softening into genuine gratitude. Wulfric's voice was the first to speak, filled with sincerity, responded, "It's more than acceptable, Kaiden. You look like a priestess, no denying that. Gideon can’t follow Instructions but at least it’s better than last time."
Wulfric's words hung in the air for a moment before Loden spoke, his voice brimming with sincerity. "Kaiden, you look great just like Wulfric said. You look magnificent in this." His gaze met Kaiden's, conveying a sense of approval and respect. Wulfric and Loden both nodded, affirming Loden's sentiment and acknowledging Kaiden's transformation.
Kaiden's relieved expression conveyed a mixture of gratitude and anticipation. The weight of the moment sank in, and it was clear that he wanted everything to proceed smoothly during the important ritual ceremony about to take place. Wulfric and Loden both must have sensed Kaiden's inner thoughts, since they both offered reassuring smiles. Wulfric spoke up, "Everything will go splendidly. Everyone in the palace has taken meticulous care in planning and preparing for this ritual. You don't need to worry."
Loden's chest puffed up with pride as he chimed in, "Besides, there's no need to worry. You've got us for protection! Our swords are always at the ready." His words carried a sense of confidence and reassurance, highlighting their role in safeguarding Kaiden.
Loden's confident stance persisted, his hands resting on the two swords at his belt. Loden's face lit up as he shared his thoughts aloud. "Wuflric has filled me in on all the details and our part in the ritual. I do, have a small suggestion though that I'd like to discuss before going ahead with the ceremony." He glanced briefly at Wulfric, seeking approval to move head with this idea of his.
Wulfric nodded in agreement, acknowledging Loden's suggestion. "Indeed, it's not a bad idea, and I concur. However, there's no time to lose." Wulfric gestured for them to begin moving. "The ritual beginnin approaches quickly, and we must proceed accordingly." As they walked, Wulfric continued, "We can discuss matters while en route. Let's move and talk."
The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as they walked with purpose, with Wulfric at the helm, flanked by Kaiden and Loden. Behind them, Yetta and Cerelia trailed along, their silence adding a mysterious undertone to the procession. Wulfric's steps were confident and determined, his stride purposeful as he led them to the ritual's venue at the main courtyard of the palace.
Loden's usual gregarious demeanor gave way to a thoughtful silence as they walked, but Kaiden's curiosity got the better of him. Breaking the silence, he turned to Loden and inquired, "You had something on your mind you wanted to discuss, didn't you, Loden?" His voice held a hint of genuine concern and interest, as he recognized that Loden's uncharacteristic quietness likely indicated a weightier subject. A reminder of previous silences between the pair.
Loden's attention shifted back to Kaiden, his mind returning to the present moment. "Ah, yes," Loden began. "Actually, I've had something on my mind that I've been meaning to talk with you about, Kaiden." He paused for a brief moment before continuing, his words measured and deliberate. Loden furrowed his brow, a hint of embarrassment creeping into his expression as he chose his next words. "I just wanted to apologize for my behavior the other night, Kaiden. It was uncalled for," Loden admitted, his voice softening.
Stolen story; please report.
Loden's expression softened as he continued, his voice carrying a hint of vulnerability. "I want to clear the air before the ceremony," he said. "I sincerely wanted to apologize for my words the other night. I truly am sorry, and I'm here to serve you wholeheartedly as a warrior of Astryaln."
Wulfric nodded in agreement a few steps ahead of them having eavesdropped. "Apology accepted, Loden. We understand the pressure you're under, I am under more but we both understand and we understand the need for space at times," Wulfric affirmed, his voice steady and reassuring.
Kaiden added, his tone sincere, "I have to apologize to you Loden as well. I should have respected your boundaries and given you the space you needed. And not have pushed you.”
Loden's expression became contemplative as he reflected on his behavior. "Still," he began, "my words and actions were inexcusable. I will strive to do better." His face brightened a bit as he continued, "Oh! That reminds me! Part of my apology is this sword for you," he said, untying the sheath from his belt before offering it to Kaiden.
Kaiden's eyes widened in surprise as he struggled to hold the heavy sword as he walked. "Whoa! This thing is heavier than I expected!" he exclaimed, nearly dropping it. Loden, noticing Kaiden's reaction, quickly explained, "Yesterday, I found it at the market. It has the insignia of Astryaln. As an apology, I thought I could teach you how to wield it." His words were filled with genuine regret and a desire to make amends.
Yetta and Cerelia followed closely behind, their presence felt even without words. As Yetta spoke up, her voice firm but respectful, Kaiden glanced back at them. "Priestess," Yetta began, her tone serious, "you cannot carry the sword during the ceremony. There is no secure place on the garment to attach it." Kaiden paused, considering Yetta's words, a mixture of surprise and understanding crossing his face. He hadn't thought about the practicalities of carrying a sword during the ritual.
Wulfric, feeling the brief pause, turned to see Kaiden stopped in the hallway, holding the sword out. He rolled his eyes and spoke up, "Loden, hold onto the sword until after the ceremony. Then give it back to Kaiden. Let's keep moving, though." Wulfric's directive tone indicated the urgency of their task and the need to remain focused. Loden nodded, understanding Wulfric's point. Kaiden handed the sword back to Loden, who tucked the sword back onto his belt for safekeeping.
As they ventured deeper into the palace, the atmosphere became saturated with the aroma of incense, creating an aura of solemnity and veneration. The scent seemed to seep into the very walls, infusing the air with a holy essence. The path they walked upon seemed to lead towards a sacred altar, Kaiden assumed but seemed like another long hallway within the palace. The small group approached it with reverence, all keeping silent. Wulfric signaled for Kaiden to advance ahead of him as the group came closer to the end of their walk. The small group came to a halt before a colossal set of doors, which loomed before them like gatekeepers to the altar.
Yetta made a slight sound, her voice carrying a touch of finality. "This is where we must part, your grace," she said, her tone respectful and determined. She exchanged a warm, gentle smile with Kaiden, a silent gesture of support.
"We will be present in the crowd, though. Good luck," she added, her words both encouraging and reassuring.
Cerelia too offered a warm smile, her nod conveying a shared understanding. Before leaving, she cast a last, lingering glance at Loden, her eyes reflecting a mix of unspoken words and hesitation. Without another word, she swiftly turned and walked down the hall, following Yetta and disappearing around the corner. Leaving Kaiden with Wulfric and Loden in front of the colossal doors.
Kaiden's voice broke the silence, filled with both anticipation and trepidation. "What do we do now? What should we expect?" he asked, seeking guidance. His eyes shifted between Loden and Wulfric, searching for answers and reassurance. Wulfric, his confidence unwavering, replied with a calm and steady tone, "The ceremony is straightforward as you have practiced. However, a few unexpected events could occur during this ceremony. Stay alert and be prepared for anything."
Kaiden acknowledged Wulfric's words with a nod, his fingers absently touching the scroll concealed within the fabric of his garment - a subtle reassurance in his readiness. His voice tinged with a mix of anticipation and nervousness, he inquired, "What should I expect, though? Cheers, boos? How many individuals are we talking about?" The weight of the situation seemed to manifest in his voice, revealing the depth of his apprehension, yet his resolve remained firm.
Loden's smirk held a touch of amusement as he addressed Kaiden's nervousness. "You nervous that badly?" he teased, chuckling softly. "You've faced a slave market, a market, a city crowd. This is nothing. We've got your back." His words held a reassuring tone, as if he found Kaiden's nerves endearing.
Kaiden's heart seemed to rise with the support of Loden and Wulfric's presence. An inner determination ignited within him, his resolve to undertake the ritual in front of the city growing stronger. Anticipation mingled with a touch of anxiety, as he braced himself for the pivotal moment ahead, which symbolized a significant progression on his journey to reclaim his own world.