Moonlight bathed the polished marble floors of the pavilion, and the air carried a faint scent of exotic incense. Within, a hushed conversation took place among three figures—Kaelen, Forbes, and Kelvin—who stood slightly apart, exchanging thoughts on the cryptic statement Crown Prince Lysander had made earlier regarding the Conquest of Dawn.
As they quietly speculated on what Lysander's words could mean, a cold and piercing voice suddenly interrupted them.
"Will these three truly be worth the persuasion?"
The voice belonged to Elara, the daughter of the First Magi, her icy blue eyes scrutinizing them with undisguised skepticism. She stood beside Lysander, her presence sharp and regal, like a blade hidden within silk.
Lysander turned his head slightly, as if contemplating an answer, but before he could speak, Forbes stepped forward. His tone was neither humble nor arrogant—just steady, unwavering.