A world on Edge

The boardroom of the Grand Arena was a testament to both elegance and authority. The room was large in size, with a polished obsidian table at its center. Intricate chandeliers hung on its ceiling that bathed the space in a soft and golden light. Three figures of considerable stature sat around the table: Headmaster Dorian, Headmistress Lyra, and Headmaster Orion.

Master Cronos and madam Nyx were standing behind them. At the center of the table lay a sleek and advanced communicator with its surface that reflects a dim light in a soft, eerie glow.

Suddenly, the communicator buzzed to life, and a deep, resonant voice filled the room—its tone was both commanding and authoritative

"Speak."

Headmaster Orion leaned forward with his voice that was steady but grave as he began to explain the dire situation.

"During the ongoing tournament, the Veridonia Kingdom, who is under the leadership of Headmaster Veridicus, has staged a rebellion. This act of treachery has been further complicated by the presence of three intruders who are not from our world. Their motives and identities remain unclear, but their interference is significant and alarming."

Headmaster Orion's expression grew darker as he continued with his voice that carried a weight of sorrow.

"In addition to the rebellion, we must contend with the tragic loss of six individuals. Among the casualties are three of the kingdom's esteemed Grandmasters."

He paused for a moment, allowing the gravity of his words to settle in.

"The first is Grandmaster Elion Voss, the Keeper of the Dawnspire Monastery. His wisdom and guidance were pillars of strength for our order."

Orion's gaze shifted slightly as he acknowledged the significance of the loss.

"The second is Grandmaster Selene Arcturus, the Keeper of Frostflow Citadel. Her presence will be sorely missed."

"Lastly..."

Orion continued

"We mourn the loss of Ambassador Lucian Darius, a representative of the Kingdom. His diplomatic skills and strategic insights were invaluable, and his death represents a significant blow to our efforts to maintain peace."

 The communicator fell silent for a moment, as the heavy weight of its silence could be felt pressing on the room. Then, the regal voice returned, tinged with a note of personal concern.

"And my daughters?"

Headmaster Orion replied with a steady voice.

"They are safe. Both are secure and unharmed.

The communicator flickered back to life, and the voice came through with a tone of deep regret.

 "I offer my utmost apologies for this grave inconvenience and the devastating attack on our kingdom. Headmaster Dorian, Headmistress Lyra, I extend my sincere condolences for the turmoil this has caused."

Headmaster Dorian, who had been quietly absorbing the weight of the situation, responded with a measured and respectful tone.

 "Your Majesty, I am the one who should be expressing my apologies. The loss of your Keepers and Ambassador is a severe blow, and I regret that we could not prevent this tragedy."

The voice carried a note of genuine appreciation.

"Your humility and dedication are commendable.

The voice then continued with a commanding order and a newfound authority.

"I will issue a Royal Decree immediately, ordering my children to return home this instant. Their safety must be ensured without delay."

There was a brief pause as the voice took on a more contemplative tone.

"Furthermore, I will arrange for an urgent meeting with them upon their return. This meeting will be conducted directly with me to discuss the current crisis and their roles moving forward."

Orion nodded in acknowledgment, he then responded with a firm tone.

"I will ensure that the decree is carried out promptly and that the Prince and Princess are escorted home safely. The meeting with the king will be arranged as soon as possible."

The communicator's connection began to fade, signaling the end of the exchange. Headmaster Orion turned to Madam Nyx and Master Cronos with a smile showing on his face.

"Looks like more paperwork is coming our way."

***

After the meeting concluded, the various figures has dispersed to their own destination. The boardroom was now quiet and empty.

With an etched expression showing on his face, Master Cronos made his way to the private balcony. The once-grand space had been severely damaged in the recent explosion caused by Veridicus. Debris and scorch marks marred the once-pristine area. He carefully inspected the surrounding remnants on the balcony with his sharp eyes taking in every detail.

As he scrutinized the shattered remnants of the balcony, his gaze shifted upward to the night sky. The stars twinkled faintly against the dark expanse, making a serene contrast to the turmoil below.

Madam Nyx approached the balcony from the stands. She saw Master Cronos absorbed in his inspection and approached him with a measured pace.

"How much do you know of the boy?"

She asked him with a voice that was tinged with both curiosity and concern.

Master Cronos remained silent for a moment, causing Madam Nyx to pressed on even further as she sensed his reluctance.

"Is this about what happened a long time ago? You know that it is not your fault."

Her words were filled with understanding but also with a hint of frustration.

"How long are you going to carry this guilt with you?"

Master Cronos finally turned to face her. 

"Not a day goes by where I don't regret my choice. The consequences of that decision still haunt me, and it feels as though I am forever bound to the shadows of my past actions."

Master Cronos' eyes shifted back to the stars above, he can feel the weight of his past still lingering in his thoughts.

"I saw another young man, one who needs saving. This time, I will do everything in my power to help him... Nyx, i've decided to join the imperial venture."

Madam Nyx was surprised after hearing his remark.

"The kingdom's expedition? What's your plan?"

A faint smile can be seen showing at the corner of Master Cronos' lips as he replied:

"Probably collecting some relics for this old man collection. And to look for a cure for a very sick woman..."