As they make their way to the banquet hall, the emperor engages Loden in conversation, inquiring about his life and what lies beyond the city walls. Meanwhile, Wulfric quietly follows behind the pair, remaining silent as they continue their discussion. Kaiden trails a few steps behind the rest of the group, his gaze wandering over the intricate decor and artworks adorning the palace walls. However, his focus is suddenly fixated when the group walks past a series of portraits on the wall, his attention fully captivated by their presence.
Engrossed in their conversation, Loden, Wulfric, and the emperor do not take note of Kaiden's halted pace as he intently scrutinizes the portraits before him. Each portrait depicts a young woman clad in regal ceremonial garb, and adorns her neck is the same familiar-looking wolf pendant. Kaiden ponders the portraits, observing the subtle similarities in the women's facial features, particularly in their hair color, eye color, and general facial structure. It becomes evident to him that these women must be related somehow. Kaiden stands transfixed before the last portrait, his breath catching in his throat. Though her attire is dissimilar, the woman depicted has an unmistakable familiar visage. His mind scrambles, desperately trying to recollect where and how he knows this girl. Who could she be?
Kaiden's gaze alights on a small plaque at the bottom of the portrait, and he meticulously wipes off some dust, revealing the inscription "The Priestess Molly." Recognition sparks within him, and he whispers aloud, "Priestess Molly... But how do I know her?"
Kaiden is pulled from his thoughts as he hears Wulfric shuffle a few steps closer, a hint of irritation on his face. Wulfric scoffs, "You can't even recognize your own kin, boy. Pray tell, what kind of priestess has the deity bestowed upon us?"
Kaiden's eyes widen, and the weight of realization crashes upon him. A wave of shock and disbelief seizes his entire being. He leans against the wall, placing a trembling hand against his head, and all at once, memories and the image from his dream flood through his mind with relentless rapidity. His grandfather's stories of his sister, Molly, who had tragically passed away during their adolescence, now resurface vividly in his memory. Kaiden's mind races back to the words of his grandfather, recalling his mention of how his sister had vanished mysteriously, and it was assumed she had passed away since her whereabouts were unknown. As the pieces begin to fall into place, Kaiden sees a chilling realization: Molly had been transported to this world just as he had been, and she had been the previous priestess. Her tragic failure to summon Astralyn had left her trapped in this realm.
The realization and the weight of the situation take a visible toll on Kaiden. His body trembles uncontrollably, his emotions churning violently within him. An overwhelming surge of celestial power courses through his veins, fueled by his mounting fear. Despite Kaiden's inner turmoil, Wulfric stands nearby, his aloof demeanor betraying an unsettling lack of concern or interest.
Kaiden slowly lowers himself, sinking to the floor, his chest clenched in pain. Just then, Wulfric's mark suddenly flares, burning slightly. Meanwhile, Loden's voice echoes down the hall, calling out to Kaiden, "Kaiden..."
Kaiden struggles to speak, but no words escape him. Hearing Loden's frantic approach, Wulfric is brushed aside as Loden swiftly kneels down beside Kaiden, quickly scanning his body for any visible signs of injury. In an attempt to soothe Kaiden, Loden urges him to stay calm, reassuring him, "You're safe. You're okay. We're here for you. Everything's going to be alright."
Kaiden's pained grip tightens against his chest as his breathing progressively grows labored. His vision starts to blur, and an onslaught of celestial energy courses relentlessly through his veins, desperately seeking a way out. The emperor appears swiftly next to Wulfric, his concern evident as he urgently queries, "Is he alright?" Without missing a beat, the emperor turns to Wulfric, demanding an explanation, "What happened?"
Before Wulfric can begin to explain the situation, Kaiden's pent-up celestial energy erupts suddenly, forcefully pushing against Loden, who is kneeling beside him. In an instant, Wulfric steps in front of the emperor, becoming a barrier against the radiant energy hurtling towards them. Despite the intensity of the blast, the emperor and Wulfric remain standing, their balance only slightly swayed by the light yet powerful force.
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As Kaiden's body loses its strength and slumps to the floor, Loden is filled with concern. Panicked, he calls out to him, "Kaiden...Kaiden!" Loden gently supports Kaiden in his arms, his gaze fixed reproachfully on Wulfric. In a demanding tone, he asks, "What did you do?"
The emperor steps out from behind Wulfric, positioning himself beside him. Alongside Loden, their gazes hold a mix of accusation and inquiry. Wulfric shakes his head, his expression one of slight defensiveness. "Blame me if you want. It's not my fault that the kid is weak. He has a breakdown after just glimpsing a portrait of his ancestors," Wulfric responds, a hint of irritability in his voice.
As Loden raises his eyes to the portrait above them, he quickly discerns the uncanny resemblance between the girl depicted and the unconscious Kaiden. Before he can voice his observation, the emperor interjects, cutting off any further discussion.
The emperor's authoritative voice carries through the hall, "We will discuss this further once Kaiden has regained consciousness. For now, we shall forego the meal and escort you to your rooms. It is clear that Kaiden is in need of immediate rest."
Loden gazes down at the unconscious and weakened Kaiden in his arms, his concern evident as he contemplates the aftermath of Kaiden's celestial energy release. With a heavy sigh, Loden breathes a sigh of relief, noting that this time, Kaiden's body appeared unharmed, and he had simply fainted due to the exertion. Gathering strength, Loden pushes up off the ground and seamlessly lifts Kaiden into a princess carry, cradling him delicately in his arms.
With a respectful tone, Loden addresses the emperor, "Please, Your Highness, lead the way." He awaits the emperor's guidance, while delicately holding the unconscious Kaiden in his arms, prepared to follow the emperor's direction.
The emperor nods acknowledgement, gesturing in the direction they were initially heading. "This way," he instructs. The emperor adds, "We will arrange for some food to be brought to your rooms as well, in case you require it."
With gratitude in his tone, Loden sincerely responds, "Thank you, Your Highness." He then obediently follows the emperor and Wulfric down the hall, carrying Kaiden in his steady embrace.
The group proceeds together down the quiet hallway, finally arriving at a cluster of elegantly placed doors that overlook a tranquil courtyard right before them. The emperor gestures towards the two rooms closest to them, indicating that these will be their quarters. With a welcoming sweep of his hand, he invites them to make themselves comfortable. "Please feel free to settle in here," he says. "I assure you that food will be delivered promptly. Wulfric will remain here to safeguard you, and I must now return to the main chamber." He then turns to Wulfric, issuing a subtle command to stay behind. Wulfric begrudgingly remains stationed as a sentinel, his irritation evident. The hallways fall silent except for the faint sound of the emperor's receding footsteps.
Loden shifts his attention to Wulfric, his eyes locking in a silent standoff. After a brief hesitation, he clears his throat, opting for a more diplomatic approach. With a hint of politeness, he addresses Wulfric, "Could you please open the door?" He gently tilts his head towards Kaiden, emphasizing that his hands are already occupied, carrying the unconscious Kaiden in his arms.
Wulfric casts a momentary glance at Loden and the still-unconscious Kaiden, his expression revealing a subtle air of disinterest. He quickly averts his gaze, turning his attention instead to the serene and empty courtyard outside. The courtyard, devoid of any people or creatures, offers a quiet and undisturbed view. Loden clearly exasperated by Wulfric's indifferent behavior, takes a step closer, ready to call him out. As he moves, however, he is abruptly reminded of Kaiden still in his arms, prompting him to exhale heavily and readjust his hold on Kaiden, now positioning him securely over his own shoulder. With Kaiden positioned on his shoulder, Loden carefully twists the knob and nudges the door open, entering the opulent room. Loden pauses momentarily to drink in the lavish environment around him, admiring the exquisite furnishings, intricate decorations, and ostentatious wealth displayed in every corner of the spacious chamber. The room is a veritable showcase of luxury and decadence.
Loden's eyes fall upon the king-sized bed adorned with an abundance of silk and plush pillows, creating a luxurious haven of comfort. Carefully, he adjusts the pillows atop the bed, ensuring a supportive space. Next, he delicately lifts the layers of blankets away, preparing the bed for Kaiden's gentle arrival. Loden gently sets Kaiden down on the bed, covering him with a light blanket to ensure he’s comfortable. He pauses to assess the boy's condition, carefully checking for any signs of discomfort or distress. Satisfied that Kaiden is resting peacefully, Loden breathes a subtle sigh of relief, reassured by his stable state. The room’s tranquil ambiance aids in the peaceful environment.
Loden now at ease with Kaiden’s well-being secured in the resting space, swiftly pivots to leave the room. He closes the door softly, careful not to disturb Kaiden's quiet slumber. As soon as the door clicks shut, Loden wastes no time and dives headfirst into a confrontation with Wulfric, tackling his celestial duties, Kaiden, and his overall attitude.