Actions and Consequences

Aiden unfolded the note and read the details of his mission. He was tasked with investigating the growing rebellion against the corrupt Royals and high-ranking officials. His first lead would take him to the Abyss Market, a notorious hotspot for illicit activities.

Aiden turned to Cordelia and explained the situation. "I have to go and complete this mission," he said. "But don't worry, I'll be back in time. I'll head to the Abyss Market and gather information."

He glanced at the note again, noting the mention of a new uniform. "I'll also be receiving some new gear that'll suit my missions better," he said. "It should arrive within the next 2-4 days, so I can wait for it before heading out."

Aiden's expression was determined. "This mission is important, and I'll make sure to get to the bottom of it. I'll be careful and gather as much information as I can."

Cordelia's smile lit up her face as she nodded understandingly. "It's okay, Aiden. I know your duty as a Priest of Divinity is to serve and protect the light in the world. Just be safe, and don't let the darkness consume you. Hold on to your light."

Aiden smiled back, feeling a sense of comfort in her understanding. "I will, don't worry. And I still have a few days before I need to head out. We can spend some quality time together before I go."

Cordelia's eyes sparkled with agreement. "Let's make the most of it, then. We can take walks, have picnics, or just enjoy each other's company. Let's use these days well, and make some memories to hold onto."

The warm sunshine cast a gentle glow over the village as Aiden spent his days helping with farmwork, tending to the land, and enjoying the simple pleasures of rural life. He worked alongside the villagers, sharing stories and laughter, and reconnecting with the community he cared about.

In the evenings, Aiden would sit with Cordelia and Mother Rosibelle, sharing tales of his adventures and listening to their stories. The warmth and love of his family and friends filled his heart, providing a sense of comfort and belonging.

As the hours passed, Aiden felt his spirit rejuvenate, and his connection to the natural world and the people he loved grew stronger. Though his mission loomed ahead, he savored every moment with Cordelia and Mother Rosibelle, knowing that these memories would sustain him in the days to come.

Two days pass the Prince's return to the Capital was a grand affair, with the city unfolding its splendor before him. The majestic mountain looming in the background added a sense of grandeur, while the white marble and cobblestone streets gleamed in the sunlight. The strategic use of Obsidian Darkwood, renowned for its durability and dark hues, added a touch of elegance to the architecture.

As the Prince made his way through the city, he passed by the three separate entrances, each one a testament to the city's masterful design. The entrances from the North, East, and West converged in the city center, guiding visitors toward the southern part of the city, where the castle stood resplendent. The castle's towers and spires reached toward the sky, its walls shimmering in the light, exuding an aura of majesty and refinement.

However, the Prince's homecoming was overshadowed by the news of his humiliation in the village, which had already reached the King and Queen. The Queen's anger was palpable, her face a mask of displeasure. She was infuriated that her son, a prince of the realm, had been embarrassed in a village of no consequence. The King, though concerned, seemed more measured in his response, but the Queen's ire was undeniable.

The Prince knew that he would have to face his parents' wrath, and possibly answer for his actions. He wondered what consequences awaited him, and how he could salvage the situation. As he rode toward the castle, he steeled himself for the confrontation ahead, knowing that his pride and reputation hung in the balance.

Upon entering the castle, the Prince was greeted by the stern-faced Queen, her eyes flashing with anger. "So, you've returned," she said, her voice icy. "I suppose you have an explanation for your... humiliation in that village?" The Prince took a deep breath, preparing to face the music.

Prince Nox stood before his parents, his expression a mix of caution and respect. "Mother, Father, I went to retrieve Cordelia, but I was intercepted by a Priest of Divinity. I didn't know he was there or that he had returned."

Queen Agatha's face turned red with rage. "A Priest of Divinity? Those supposed protectors of the realm, and they allow you to be humiliated in such a manner? What kind of protection is that?"

King Cassian's voice was calm and measured. "Agatha, perhaps the Priest was defending his people and the woman he cares about. We don't know the full circumstances."

The Queen's anger didn't waver. "Defending his people? Against the Prince of the Realm? It's unacceptable. Those Priests think themselves above the law, and now they're humiliating our son."

Prince Nox interjected, "Mother, it's not just that. The Priest had more combat experience than I anticipated. He took out most of my guards, leaving only four to escort me back home."

The Queen's fury only intensified. "This is an outrage. We will not be treated like this by a group of fanatics. I demand action, Cassian. We cannot let this affront go unpunished." The King leaned back in his throne, his expression thoughtful. "We'll look into it, Agatha. But perhaps we should understand the situation better before we act."

King Cassian's expression turned serious as he shifted the conversation to the growing rebellion. "We have more pressing matters to attend to, Agatha. The Royal Court is urging us to take drastic action to demonstrate our power and authority. They want us to showcase the prowess of the Royals and our powerful allies, like the main families."

Queen Agatha clicked her tongue in annoyance. "The solution is simple. We should hire mercenaries and assassins to deal with those rebels. The more they organize and gather strength, the harder it'll be to stop them. We need to crush them before they become a real threat."

Turning to Prince Nox, Queen Agatha's tone softened slightly. "Nox, you should head to the Royal Infirmary to get patched up. Take the soldiers with you. We'll handle the matter of that puny village. You don't need to worry about it anymore."

Her words were a mixture of concern for her son's well-being and determination to deal with the perceived slight. The Queen's gaze lingered on Prince Nox for a moment before she turned back to the King, her expression resolute. "We'll show them the true meaning of power."

King Cassian's fingers snapped, and a Royal Guard appeared, clad in exquisite black armor that seemed to absorb the light around it. The armor's texture and craftsmanship were exceptional, and the dual blades at the guard's side looked razor-sharp. A black mask with a white dragon emblem covered the guard's face, adding an air of mystery.

Before the King could speak, a black raven with white-tipped feathers and piercing eyes swooped in through the window, landing gracefully before the monarchs. The raven bowed its head, acknowledging the King and Queen.

In this world, where magic and faith were integral to everyday life, messengers like this raven were not uncommon. However, the specific breed and markings of this raven signified it was an omen from the Priests of Divinity, carrying a message of great importance.

The King and Queen exchanged a weighted glance, their expressions a mix of curiosity and caution. The raven's presence and demeanor seemed to demand attention, and the King leaned forward slightly, awaiting the message it brought.

The raven's deep, soothing voice filled the throne room, its words carefully measured. "I have heard what transpired with Prince Nox. I advise you, Your Majesties, not to take any action."

Queen Agatha's face twisted in indignation, her nails digging into the throne's armrests. "How can we let such humiliation go unpunished? Our son, the Prince, was treated like a commoner by a mere Priest."

The raven's response was unexpected – it laughed, the sound low and mysterious. "It's amusing how Royals think they can take and prance over people as they please. Prince Nox attempted to forcibly take a member of the Young Priest's people, and you expect him not to protect those he loves?"

The raven's words hung in the air, its gaze piercing as it continued, "The Priest defended his own, and you would do well to remember that not everyone bends to the Royal family's whims." The King and Queen exchanged a tense glance, the weight of the raven's words settling upon them.

The raven's voice took on a cautionary tone as it continued, "The village is under the protection of the Priests of Divinity. You are fortunate that we are not on bad terms with them, but the real issue here is that the child is someone special, with potential that could reach and perhaps surpass even the Priests of Old. You are playing with an entity that wields immense power."

King Cassian's expression turned skeptical. "The Priest who humiliated our son is young, inexperienced. Surely, he can't be a significant threat."

The raven laughed again, its eyes glinting with a knowing light. "You underestimate the potential of the Priest. His youth is irrelevant – his power is locked away, waiting to be unleashed. If you decide to pursue this matter, be warned: the Priests of Divinity will not intervene when things spiral out of control. You will face the consequences of your actions alone."

The raven's words hung in the air, a clear warning to the King and Queen that they were tampering with forces beyond their control.

The raven bowed once more, its mission accomplished, and took to the skies, disappearing through the window. The throne room fell silent, the weight of the raven's words lingering.

King Cassian broke the silence, his voice measured. He turned to the Royal Guard in black light armor. "See to it that we acquire the services of skilled assassins, ones who can handle the village and the young Priest. But for now, let them wait. I want you to wait for my signal to strike. Timing is crucial in this matter."

The guard nodded, understanding the King's intent. "As you wish, Your Majesty. I will make the necessary arrangements."

Queen Agatha's expression remained tense, her anger and frustration still simmering. The King's decision to wait and observe seemed to be a temporary reprieve, but she knew that the matter was far from over.