Hours pass, and Kaiden gradually regains consciousness. His body re-establishes a modicum of energy, though not altogether recovered, and a lingering discomfort persists—a slight ache in his head and heart. Kaiden ponders the causes of these aches, attributing them either to the celestial power that surged through him or the emotional turmoil he is experiencing, exacerbated by his uncertain situation. The serene calm of the room helps Kaiden relax as he reflects on his thoughts in silence, contemplating his circumstances. He realizes that the person with the answers to his questions is none other than the emperor himself. Summoning his courage, Kaiden concludes that he must speak with the emperor, who holds the key to unraveling the mysteries surrounding the mysterious portraits and his own enigmatic past.

As Kaiden prepares to rise from the bed, a light knock at the door resonates through the room, interrupting his movements. Kaiden quickly shifts himself, now seated on the mattress, and calls out, "Who is it?" His voice carries a note of curiosity and expectant inquiry.

Loden’s voice calls out to him on the other side of the door. “It’s Loden and Wulfric, may we enter your chambers, priestess?”

Kaiden's eyes brighten with recognition, hearing Loden's familiar voice through the door. He responds, a warm smile gracing his lips, "Of course. You may enter." His welcoming tone invites Loden and Wulfric into his room.

Kaiden's eyes widen in concern as Loden and Wulfric step into the room, revealing bruises on their faces. Loden bears a bruise on his cheek, and Wulfric has a larger bruise that spans his cheek and extends above his eye. Kaiden is left to ponder the circumstances that led to these injuries, wondering if the pair had engaged in another physical altercation or contended with an opponent. His thoughts race with questions about their recent activities.

Loden and Wulfric approach the bed and kneel close to where Kaiden sits. Loden speaks up first, addressing Kaiden's concern about the bruises on their faces. With a reassuring tone, he explains, "Don’t worry about the bruises. We actually caused them ourselves. Wulfric and I have spent the last few hours resolving our differences in a not-so-peaceful manner. We have come to an agreement now and are here to serve you, priestess."

Kaiden nods in agreement, understanding that sometimes physical actions can be necessary for resolution. However, he feels a bit perplexed by Loden’s persistent use of the term "priestess" when addressing him. Confused, Kaiden recalls that Loden has referred to him by his name multiple times before, which makes this sudden change in title all the more intriguing.

With unwavering determination, Loden and Wulfric remain kneeling before Kaiden, both speaking in unison. Their voices are firm and resolute as they declare their unwavering devotion, "We, the celestial warriors, pledge to protect you with our lives and to assist you on this arduous journey to the summoning of Astralyn."

Their words carry a powerful sense of commitment and the weight of duty. Kaiden listens intently to their pledge, feeling the importance of this moment. With synchronized movements, Loden and Wulfric stand back up. Loden stretches leisurely, placing his hands behind his head. Wulfric, on the other hand, strides over to lean against the door, exuding a watchful and composed presence. The atmosphere is a testament to their readiness to serve and their vigilance. Kaiden takes note of their positions, aware of their steadfast dedication.

Kaiden responds warmly, expressing his gratitude. With sincere appreciation, he speaks, "Thank you both."

Loden nods in acknowledgment. Meanwhile, Wulfric maintains his watchful stance by the door, silently acknowledging Kaiden's gratitude with a nod. Loden then walks over to a nearby table, retrieving a metal-covered tray. He brings it back to the bed, setting it down by Kaiden's legs. The scent of food wafts through the air, promising nourishment and comfort. With a flourish, Loden unveils the contents of the tray, revealing a scrumptious array of fruits and meaty delicacies. Kaiden's keen eyes take in the unfamiliar sight before him, intrigued by the unique cuisine of this world. The aroma is irresistible, and Kaiden’s hunger compels him to indulge. He begins to sample the offerings, savoring each bite.

As Kaiden relishes the savory food, Wulfric lets out a snide chuckle. Loden's glare is quickly directed towards Wulfric, who swiftly turns away. Loden's stern expression indicates his disapproval of Wulfric's behavior. Wulfric's actions reflect his tendency to test boundaries and disregard social conventions. Kaiden efficiently devours the food, wiping his mouth clean on his arm. His empty stomach now satisfied, Kaiden gently shifts the tray away from himself, and Loden promptly moves to clear the tray, returning it to the table.

Kaiden takes a moment to address the quiet atmosphere, breaking the silence with a question for Loden, "Loden, why are both of you so quiet? Did something happen while I was out?" His curiosity prompts a response from Loden, hoping to better understand the situation.

Loden sets the tray down before responding to Kaiden's inquiry. His muscular frame moves as he ponders his reply. "We were just worried about you," Loden admits. "Your sudden fainting spell earlier caught us off guard. I've seen you release celestial energy before, but this time, it seemed different."

Kaidan furrows his brows, his confusion evident. In his thoughts, he ponders the differences between the previous use of celestial energy and his recent experience. He muses to himself, "I still feel fatigue after releasing that energy. But why did I faint this time? What was different?"

Wulfric, cutting in quickly, declares, "If your needs have been fulfilled, Priestess, I believe my services would be more beneficial if I were to assist the emperor. I will take my leave now."

Loden murmurs a quiet "good riddance" as Wulfric turns to leave. As Kaiden starts to rise from the bed, Loden swiftly steps forward, gently placing his hands in front of him. Loden's face displays a mix of concern and resolve.

Kaiden sensing some restraint from Loden, swiftly calls out to Wulfric, expressing gratitude. "Thank you, Wulfric," he exclaims. "I would appreciate it if we could chat again when you're available. Loden and I will be fine here." Wulfric nods silently in acknowledgement and takes his leave once more, leaving Loden and Kaiden alone.

With Wulfric gone, Kaiden turns his attention back to Loden. The pair remain alone in the room. Kaiden still sitting on the bed, glances at Loden, wondering the reason for his earlier intervention.

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Kaiden pivots towards Loden, a trace of irritation edging into his voice, mingling with a tinge of curiosity. "Why did you stop me from speaking with Wulfric?" Kaiden inquires, the hint of frustration now apparent.

Loden clenches his fist and forcefully strikes his palm as he continues speaking, his words laced with frustration. "You shouldn't bother too much with Wulfric," he states firmly. "It's his fault, that arrogant fool. He could have done something to help earlier, but he just stood there. He... frustrates me."

Kaiden reaches out his hand towards Loden, but Loden takes a step back, creating distance between them. He remains firmly rooted in the spot. Loden's words spill out, betraying his growing agitation, "Wulfric is a celestial warrior, damn it. He should act like one. "

Loden swiftly turns back, realizing the forcefulness of his tone and expression. He offers an apology for his behavior and words, shifting his demeanor to a calmer, more composed one. He returns to his place beside Kaiden's bed, taking a seat in the nearby chair, allowing himself to be closer to Kaiden once more. Kaiden instinctively reaches out toward Loden before drawing his hand back, uncertain of what to say or do next. The room is filled with a silence that hangs heavily in the air, leaving the two in an awkward pause. Loden fidgets with his hands, quietly contemplating his thoughts. Meanwhile, Kaiden sits on the bed, hugging his knees to his chest. He mulls over the occurrences of the past few days, lost in contemplation.

A loud knock reverberates on the door, accompanied by the voice of the Emperor. "May we enter, Priestess?" The unexpected interruption prompts a surprised look from Loden and Kaiden.

Kaiden quickly composes himself, replying to the Emperor's call, "Yes, your majesty, you may enter." The door swings open, revealing the presence of the Emperor, who steps into the room followed by the Empress.

Wulfric enters after the Emperor and the Empress, maintaining his close proximity to them. The Empress is adorned in regal attire, befitting her status. Her expression is neutral and unreadable as she steps into the room and stations herself beside the Emperor.

The Emperor approaches both Kaiden and Loden, his concern evident in his words. "We are relieved to see you awake, Kaiden. Your earlier fainting spell certainly gave us quite a fright," he begins. "I would like to discuss a few matters with you, and also introduce my wife, the Empress, Caecilia," he adds, gesturing toward the Empress who stands by the door with Wulfric at her side.

Caecilia gracefully steps forward and performs a polite bow, addressing both the Kaiden and Loden. "It is an honor to meet you," she reiterates. "As well as you, Loden. Encountering another celestial warrior like Wulfric is truly an honor." There is a hint of respect in her tone as she acknowledges their meeting.

As Kaiden moves to get up, Loden swiftly rises from his seat, preventing him from doing so. He then kneels before the Emperor and Empress, his voice filled with respect. "We are both honored to have an audience with the Emperor and Empress," Loden declares. "Please excuse the priestess," he adds, gesturing towards Kaiden, "as he should remain resting due to travel and fatigue." The atmosphere in the room becomes more formal, with Loden's gesture showing a mix of submission and protection towards Kaiden.

Kaiden is taken aback by Loden's behavior, again observes his formality. Loden's demeanor exudes respect and deference, a stark contrast to his usual demeanor. Kaiden, in an effort to reciprocate the respect, lowers his head in a show of deference towards the Emperor and the Empress.

The Emperor waves his hand, offering a reassuring gesture. "There is no need for formality at the moment," he reassures. "We have come simply to speak with you as friends. I thought you might have some questions upon regaining consciousness," he adds, addressing Kaiden directly.

Kaiden lifts his head, a determined look in his eyes, and responds, "Yes, I do." Loden follows suit, rising from his knee to stand by Kaiden's bed, silently maintaining his protective presence. The Emperor upon hearing Kaiden's affirmation, takes his seat in the chair next to the table within the room, signaling his readiness to listen.

The Empress Caecilia moves forward, her voice soft yet commanding. "Perhaps Wulfric and Loden should step out for the moment so we can speak to you alone," she suggests, her eyes darting towards Wulfric and Loden, subtly indicating that they should leave the room.

Loden instinctively moves forward to speak, but he quickly checks himself, acknowledging the hierarchy of the room. He turns to look at Kaiden, and with a mix of concern and submission in his tone, asks, "Priestess, is this what you wish?" His expression betrays his desire to remain by Kaiden's side, but he waits for Kaiden's response.

Kaiden surveys the room, his gaze moving from person to person. Wulfric remains motionless by the door, his presence a constant. The Emperor sits at the table, a subtle gesture indicating his willingness to defer to the Empress. Loden stands beside him, a mixture of hurt and hope in his eyes. The Empress positions herself closer to Kaiden and Loden, her expression unreadable. The atmosphere in the room grows tense as Kaiden assesses the dynamics at play.

Kaiden takes a deep breath and speaks with a composed voice, addressing the entire room. "I would prefer it if Wulfric and Loden remained in the room," he says firmly. "They are involved in this matter as well." His tone leaves no room for debate, as he gazes at each person, a silent determination in his eyes.

As Kaiden speaks with conviction, Wulfric's stern facade momentarily falters, and a brief grin appears on his face, betraying his true feelings. However, he swiftly composes himself, returning to his stoic, expressionless stance by the door, silently acknowledging Kaiden's decision.

The Emperor and Loden both nod, silently showing their respect for Kaiden's decision. The Empress Caecilia lets out a quiet sigh, her gaze shifting between Wulfric and Loden. A subtle shift of her shoulders indicates her acceptance of the situation, although her thoughts remain guarded.

The Empress turns her attention to Wulfric and Loden, speaking firmly. "This conversation is to be kept within this room, and the words spoken here shall not be repeated to anyone outside of those present in this room," she commands, her tone leaving no room for disobedience. "Do you both understand?"

Wulfric responds promptly and obediently to the Empress, his voice respectful. "Of course, my lady," he says, "I will silently observe and not speak of this. I shall ensure the secrecy of your conversation." His words carry the weight of someone used to following orders and ensuring confidentiality.

Loden responds rather bluntly, rolling his eyes at Wulfric before bowing his head. "Yes, your majesty," he replies, his tone slightly dismissive. He then steps back to stand by the wall, making space for the Empress to be closer to Kaiden, his body language displaying a mix of irritation and acceptance.

The Empress manages to flash a subtle smile, quickly regaining her regal composure. She then moves closer to Kaiden and extends her hand, asking politely, "May I sit with you as we speak?" Her tone is soft, but there is an unmistakable air of command and expectation in her voice, as if she is used to having her requests granted without question.

Kaiden nods in agreement, and says with a polite "Yes, your majesty," signaling his compliance. He moves his legs, creating space on the bed for the Empress to be seated. His gesture is a mixture of respect and submission, clearly aware of her higher rank and status.

The Empress gracefully lowers herself onto the side of the bed, sitting with her legs on the floor, bringing her to eye level with Kaiden. Carefully, she extracts a small, silvery pouch from within her garments and places it gently on her lap. The pouch is crafted from fine silver thread, its surface shimmering in the dim light of the room. All in the room fall silent, honoring the Empress's status and authority. There is a palpable respect in the air as she begins to speak, everyone present fully aware of her rank and the importance of her words. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation, as everyone waits for her to address Kaiden.