A Royal Assembly

Serephira moved graciously in the grand hallway of the castle, her footsteps can be heard echoing softly against the polished marble floor. The interior of the castle was a sight to be looked at. Arched windows on the walls lets in a streams of golden sunlight, it illuminates the intricate tapestries that adorned the walls. These tapestries depicted the history of the kingdom in rich, vivid colors, showing scenes of battles, royal ceremonies, and mythical creatures.

The ceiling was a masterpiece of its own, it was adorned with ornate frescoes and supported by gracefully carved pillars. An elegant chandeliers also hung from its above, with their crystal catching the light and scattering it in a mesmerizing dance across the hallway.

A hooded figured can be seen following Serephira at a measured pace. The figure's cloak was dark and mysterious, almost concealing its black armor from view.

As Serephira continued down the hallway, she noticed her sister, Seraphina, who stood motionless by the wall. Her eyes were fixed ahead with an expression that was distant as if she was lost in her thought.

Serephira called out, her voice can be heard echoing slightly in the vast space. 

"Seraphina, did you get lost again?"

Seraphina remained silent for a moment until her gaze had finally shifted from the wall to her sister. With a resigned nod, she acknowledged her sister's question.

Without another word, Seraphina approached the hooded figure who had been following Serephira. She stopped just short of the figure, she let out a soft and earnest voice.

"It's good to see you again."

The hooded figure tilted their head slightly, but the shadow of their hood obscured their face.

"Likewise."

With a brief exchange of glances, the three of them continued their walks down the hallway until they were met with a large, imposing door at the end. This door was a majestic feature, carved from dark wood and inlaid with intricate gold patterns that shimmered in the light.

As Serephira pushed open the large door, it creaked softly, revealing the grandeur of the throne room beyond it. The vast interior was a blend of regal splendor and intimidating authority.

The room was enormous. Tall, elegant columns lined the room, each of these columns were intricately carved with symbols and patterns that reflected the kingdom's rich heritage.

At the far end of the room, stood the throne on a raised platform—a majestic piece crafted from dark, polished wood and studded with precious gems. It was a symbol of power, towering above the rest of the room, and draped in rich, velvety fabrics that shimmered with gold threads. The throne was the focal point of the room, commanding respect and awe from all who entered.

On either side of the throne room, a multitude of political figures and courtiers were gathered. They were dressed in elaborate robes and fine attire, their whispered conversations and shifting gazes creates a low hum of anticipation and intrigue. Each of these figure held a position of influence on the kingdom.

But what drew their eyes the most were the four figures standing before the throne. They were positioned with a sense of purpose and authority.

As they entered the throne room, the first figure, who was a man in his mid thirties, noticed them immediately. He stood out not just because of his prominent position, but also due to the warm, inviting aura he exuded.

He approached the two sisters with a warm welcome showing on his face. His attire was both regal and practical, adorned with intricate patterns that denoted his high rank but were also suited for action. His dark hair was neatly styled, and his eyes were a striking shade of blue.

With a broad and genuine smile, he greeted the two sisters.

"Fina, Fiera, it's good to see you two again."

His name is Raul Aurion, the second prince, he was a figure of considerable respect and admiration. His reputation as a renowned seeker preceded him. Known for his insatiable curiosity and dedication to uncovering the truths of the world, Raul had earned his place in history as one of the kingdom's most accomplished explorers and scholars.

As he greeted Serephira and Seraphina with his warm smile, Seraphina slowly approaches him and embraced his brother with a hug. While Serephira responded to him with a voice that was filled with genuine affection.

"It's good to see you too, big brother Raul."

Before Raul could respond, a new voice cut through the moment.

"Where are both of your manners? You're late."

Another figure stepped forward. He was similar in age to Raul and equally commanding in his appearance.

He is Rylan Aurion, the third prince. He was dressed in an elegant outfit that balanced formality with functionality. His attire included a dark blue tunic adorned with silver embroidery, signifying his high rank and his role as the kingdom's plenipotentiary.

Rylan was known for his role as the kingdom's plenipotentiary, a position that granted him broad authority to represent the kingdom in diplomatic matters. His achievements included negotiating several key treaties and maintaining alliances that were crucial for the kingdom's stability and growth.

As the conversation continued, another figure approaches them. It was a woman who was slightly younger than Rylan. Her attire reflected her scholarly pursuits: a long, flowing robe adorned with intricate patterns that suggested both elegance and intellectual depth. She wore a delicate pendant around her neck, a symbol of her dedication to her studies and her reputation as a leading scholar.

"It appears that it is our father who is evidently late."

Drisana Aurion, the first princess. Renowned for her academic achievements and her deep interest in the technological advancements of the kingdom. Her work had garnered significant attention for its groundbreaking insights and innovations. Despite her frequent travels to Thaloria, where she immersed herself in its advanced technologies, Drisana remained an integral part of the royal family's affairs

Rylan's gaze shifted to Drisana.

"Mind your tone Drisana. We are in the presence of other dignitaries. It's hardly appropriate to address the king as 'father' so casually."

Drisana glared at Rylan with her angered face.

"I don't see why it's a problem, he is our father, after all. I see no reason to be formal when we're discussing his absence."

An edge of discomfort and annoyance can be seen in Rylan's eyes. Drisana continued:

"Perhaps you should concern yourself less with how I address our father and more with why he's not here when he's needed."

The tension between the siblings was palpable as the room's atmosphere was thick with the undercurrents of their familial discord.

Suddenly, a resounding thud echoed throughout the throne room, caused by an axe that was tapped against the ground by the figure standing closest to the throne.

"Enough!"

He turned his sight to the commotion behind him as he stepped forward. He was a man in his early forties, clad in heavy, ornate armor.

He is Caden Aurion, the first prince, who was also the captain of the kingdom's Royal Knights. His armor was polished to a high sheen, and adorned with intricate designs and the royal insignia, symbolizing both his rank and his dedication to the protection of the realm. He speaks with a voice that carried a commanding tone through the assembled court.

"Let us maintain some civility and quiet in the throne room. We are here to discuss matters of great importance, and it is essential that we conduct ourselves with the respect and decorum that these proceedings deserve."

After Caden's authoritative command, both Drisana and Rylan finally relented, they returned to their places and minding their own business. The tension in the air began to dissipate.

Not long after, a figure stepped forward from the side of the room. He was dressed in formal robes, with a presence that was marked by his air of importance and duty. He was the King's Herald. He raised his voice with a clear and comandig tone:

"His Majesty will now present himself."

Immediately, the attention of everyone in the room shifted toward the grand entrance, anticipation was building as they awaited the arrival of their ruler.