A colossal black gate tore open, its edges crackling with voidlight. From within stepped Azalor and Ryz, cloaked in shadow.

  "Azalor. Ryz," Dais greeted them with a smirk.

  "Welcome back, my lords."

  Ryz sneered.

  "You've embraced your role as royal court actor quite well."

  Azalor chuckled.

  "Look at his robes..."

  Dais smiled.

  "So? What happened?

  How do we control this troublesome child?"

  Ryz glanced at the sleeping boy, bound in enchanted slumber.

  Azalor's aura darkened, a cold black mist swirling around him.

  "Don't worry.

  I've found a method—one that will amuse us.

  We'll find the sword.

  And we'll harness the power buried within him."

  "How?" Dais asked, raising an eyebrow.

  Azalor's voice dropped to a whisper.

  "I conducted research in the forbidden library of Tharox.

  The specter that attacked me—it wasn't an external force.

  It was the child's will."

  Ryz's eyes narrowed.

  "His will?"

  "Yes.

  His subconscious mind.

  If he ever gains full control...

  He'll become our greatest obstacle."

  Dais's expression twisted with rage.

  "Then how do we break him?"

  Azalor smiled.

  "That's where the fool Luthor comes in.

  He's retrieving the Heart of Nyx Ramis."

  Ryz blinked.

  "We're using the heart of Elpha?

  The homeworld of the VAA knights?

  That's the kind of power we need to shatter this child's will?"

  "Exactly.

  The heart was purified by a healer in the Luminous Tree villages."

  Azalor opened an ancient tome, flipping pages with a single finger.

  "Now, Luthor is en route to the Sea Queen—Velina.

  He must kill her.

  Steal her heart, soaked in hatred and loathing for this world.

  But to control the oceans, she must remain alive—

  Even paralyzed or unconscious.

  We cannot afford a wrathful sea."

  Dais nodded.

  "Then we'll replace her heart with Nyx Ramis's calm core."

  A violet aura flared around him.

  He turned to the boy.

  "And then...

  We'll replace this child's heart with Velina's.

  Fill him with hatred.

  Break his will."

  Azalor nodded.

  "Ryz...

  Watch Luthor closely.

  He's na?ve.

  Help him against Velina—she's powerful.

  She'll kill him if he falters."

  Ryz rose from the shattered throne.

  "Understood."

  He vanished into the gray flames.

  Dais turned to the horizon.

  "Tomorrow...

  I will tighten my grip on Aurik."

  Azalor's voice was calm.

  "We need a strong center.

  Aurik will be our foundation.

  Its resources will fuel our operations."

  He paused.

  "I must confirm something.

  Allow me to leave.

  Do you need supplies?"

  "No," Dais replied.

  "Go."

  Azalor dissolved into black dust, his voice echoing:

  "I must study the green comet...

  It reacts to the healer boy...

  And to strange, unfolding events..."

  Dais stood alone, gazing at Aurik's glowing skyline beneath Silva's dark sky.

  The green comet pulsed—bright, defiant.

  ***************

  The Crimson Carpet - The Summit Begins

  News of Prince Lucas's arrival spread like wildfire through Aurik. A royal summit—rare, symbolic, and heavy with consequence.

  Prince Asser ordered the city adorned: crimson banners, golden lanterns, and floral arrangements of orange and deep red. The streets gleamed, the palace corridors shimmered. Yet beneath the beauty, a strange silence lingered.

  The author's narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

  The people of Aurik watched the royal procession in hushed awe. No cheers. No music. Just quiet eyes and whispered thoughts.

  At the palace gates, Prince Asser stood tall. Beside him, Princess Kasrahh. Behind her, Varon. Dais lingered in the rear, and Laika—the High Commander of the Mage Guild—stood with quiet dignity.

  Royal guards flanked the path.

  Prince Lucas dismounted, his cloak trailing behind him.

  "Welcome, Prince Lucas of the great kingdom of Leona," Asser declared.

  "To your second home—under the majesty of Aurik."

  "It is an honor to meet Prince Asser," Lucas replied.

  "And Princess Kasrahh... of Aurik's noble lineage."

  They walked together down a crimson carpet, scattered with orange and ruby petals.

  Laika whispered:

  "These flowers... they represent Aurik's legacy.

  They are our symbol."

  "As if anyone cares," Dais muttered.

  Lucas observed the towering sandstone walls, the pristine streets... and the eerie quiet.

  Inside the palace, Asser gestured. Guards opened the grand wooden doors, revealing a long oval table.

  "Please," Asser said.

  Lucas took his seat. Behind him sat Asser and Kasrahh. Laika and Dais followed.

  Asser began the formal greeting. Dais smiled faintly.

  Then—footsteps.

  "Apologies for the delay, Your Majesty," Jabir said, entering.

  Kasrahh smiled unconsciously. Laika's eyes widened.

  "You may sit, Merchant Jabir," Asser said, voice steady.

  Jabir sat, his gaze locked on Dais—sharp, unflinching.

  Dais's expression faltered.

  "Thank you for the warm welcome," Lucas said.

  "Aurik's hospitality is legendary.

  I am honored."

  "And we thank you for coming," Asser replied.

  "Your interest in royal ties and shared heritage means much to us."

  "I wish to discuss potential trade cooperation," Lucas said.

  Asser glanced at Dais.

  Dais leaned forward—

  But Kasrahh spoke first, her voice soft but clear:

  "It is an honor that you seek trade between our kingdoms.

  Such bonds are as vital as royal bloodlines.

  They strengthen the roots between us."

  Asser raised an eyebrow, surprised—and strangely proud.

  Dais tried again to speak—

  "Let Princess Kasrahh continue," Asser said.

  Dais fell silent.

  Laika watched, intrigued.

  Lucas studied Dais's face, then turned to Kasrahh.

  "We offer luxury goods from Aurik," Kasrahh continued.

  "Natural cotton, fine garments, high-quality linens..."

  "That is precisely what we need," Lucas said.

  "In return, Leona offers its finest jewels—

  Mined directly from our famed caverns."

  He presented a necklace and a gemstone ring.

  "This necklace is for Princess Kasrahh—crafted from Leona's deepest mines.

  And this ring... for Prince Asser.

  Forged by our master smiths over two weeks."

  Asser signaled a guard to receive the gifts.

  "It is an honor to accept your offerings," he said.

  "Now," Lucas added,

  "What of agriculture, legumes, tools... and natural resources?"

  Asser looked to Dais.

  Dais leaned forward—

  But Jabir interrupted.

  "Your Majesty...

  I am Jabir, merchant of the Golden Threads—leader of Jabir's Caravans.

  I would be honored to discuss trade on behalf of Aurik."

  Asser raised an eyebrow. His hand moved—

  Kasrahh gently placed her hand over his, trembling.

  Asser looked at her, then said nothing.

  He listened.

  ******************

  The Poison Beneath the Petals - The Summit Unfolds

  Jabir leaned forward, voice steady and ceremonial.

  "It would be my honor to serve as the compass—

  Delivering goods of every kind with golden assurance.

  A bridge between our kingdoms, with devotion and dignity.

  Whether it be messages, greetings... or something more.

  Representing the grandeur of Aurik."

  Prince Lucas smiled.

  "You're a clever merchant, Jabir.

  But I've found that behind every clever merchant...

  Lies a great debt."

  Prince Asser chuckled.

  "Don't worry.

  I can persuade him."

  "Of course, Your Majesty," Jabir replied.

  "I am at your service.

  Peace is the higher goal."

  He glanced at Dais—his gaze sharp, unreadable.

  Lucas continued.

  "I've brought another gift, Prince Asser.

  A necklace meant for Princess Sarah."

  Kasrahh and Asser froze.

  Laika's body tensed, heat rising through her chest.

  Jabir caught her eye and winked.

  Laika closed her eyes, calming herself.

  Dais's expression shifted—subtle, calculating.

  "Princess Sarah is occupied with matters of state," Asser said.

  "I apologize on her behalf.

  I'll ensure the necklace reaches her promptly."

  Silence fell.

  Dais smiled.

  A whisper from Lucas's entourage:

  "Occupied?

  We are the highest delegation from the crown.

  Is this not an insult?"

  Kasrahh's hands trembled.

  Jabir broke the silence.

  "I wished to speak about medicine, Your Majesty."

  "Go ahead," Asser nodded.

  Lucas's face softened. His advisors leaned in.

  Dais's eyes narrowed.

  "If I may, Your Majesty," Dais said.

  Asser nodded.

  Dais spoke with theatrical pride.

  "We are developing a treatment—free of side effects.

  Using natural herbs and refined gemstones.

  Under royal supervision, and my personal guidance.

  The success rate is exceptional.

  I am ready to establish a high-level partnership with Prince Lucas,

  With the blessing of Prince Asser and Princess Kasrahh."

  He raised his hand.

  Servants entered, carrying violet-trimmed cups filled with a clear elixir.

  "This is Aurik's pride.

  Our industrial revolution—still evolving."

  Laika did not drink.

  Lucas and his advisors examined the cups, curious but cautious.

  Jabir eyed the drink, then Dais—his expression mocking.

  He whispered:

  "He's trying to embarrass Prince Asser."

  Laika opened her eyes. Jabir prepared to rise as Kasrahh reached for her cup.

  Dais smiled—too wide.

  Suddenly, Varon stepped forward.

  "My lady..."

  "Yes?" Kasrahh asked.

  "The cup is smudged.

  Allow me to clean it."

  He wiped the cup and did not return it.

  Asser blinked.

  "You...

  You're a vigilant guard.

  Dais truly knows how to choose."

  He smiled at Dais.

  Dais tilted his head, expression unreadable.

  Lucas continued his discussion with Dais.

  Asser picked up his own cup, then saw Jabir's face.

  Jabir winked—foolishly.

  Asser set the cup down and listened.

  "Dangerous magic," Dais said,

  "Can harm both caster and target.

  There are—"

  Laika raised her hand.

  Jabir spoke first.

  "Forgive me, but the High Commander may offer deeper insight.

  She is Aurik's magical authority."

  Kasrahh smiled at Jabir.

  Lucas looked at Laika, intrigued.

  Varon continued polishing the cup.

  Asser's face shifted as Laika spoke.

  "If we're discussing illnesses with unusual symptoms...

  Biopsies may be necessary.

  Studying them in depth can reveal the source—

  And lead to precise treatment."

  "That's a sound approach," Asser said.

  "I'd be pleased to see the Mage Guild and royal court

  Collaborate with Leona's delegation.

  Laika will assist until her retirement.

  Then Batalos will continue."

  Dais smiled.

  Laika stared at the table.

  Batalos cleared his throat.

  "Ahem...

  The great Batalos is honored to continue

  What Commander Laika began."

  Lucas nodded. His advisors exchanged glances.

  "Good," Jabir said.

  "I'll help find the right people to assist, Your Majesty."

  "You may," Asser replied.

  Varon still held Kasrahh's cup.

  Dais spoke again.

  "I wish to discuss the illness plaguing your people, Prince Lucas.

  If we seek a definitive cure,

  I'll need to ask a few questions."

  Lucas's face changed. His advisors stiffened.

  "You may speak with his advisors later," Kasrahh said.

  Dais's eyes flickered—then returned to normal.

  "I insist."

  "Very well," Asser said.

  "Please, Prince Lucas...

  You can trust him.

  He is my finest."

  Lucas nodded.

  ****************

  The Summit's Breath - Between Petals and Blades

  Dais leaned forward, ready to speak—

  But Jabir interrupted, voice firm and composed:

  "I'm certain there are countless questions.

  We won't resolve the matter of illness in mere minutes.

  It demands depth, not haste."

  Dais's face twitched.

  Laika smiled faintly.

  Kasrahh gripped her brother's hand tightly.

  Jabir continued:

  "Under the guidance of the great Batalos,

  We will find the right path—swift and precise.

  He was nominated to lead Aurik's Mage Guild.

  I trust him."

  Laika's smile deepened.

  Batalos bowed.

  "Indeed.

  I'm confident I can identify and eliminate the illness in mere days—using my superior methods."

  Prince Asser and Prince Lucas exchanged glances.

  Kasrahh turned to Varon, smiling.

  Varon raised an eyebrow, puzzled.

  Jabir pressed on:

  "As Prince Asser said—Dais, the head of the royal court, is a master of selection.

  He chose Batalos himself.

  I'm reassured."

  Batalos straightened.

  "Fear not, gentlemen.

  I'll trace the source, heed Commander Laika's counsel,

  And collaborate with the might of Aurik and Leona to craft a magical cure—under my direct supervision."

  Jabir nodded.

  "You may need mages to assist?"

  "Certainly," Batalos replied.

  "I can release a few."

  Lucas raised an eyebrow, whispering:

  "Release?"

  Dais cut in.

  "I admire your confidence, Batalos.

  No doubt.

  I look forward to our next meeting."

  Lucas turned to Asser.

  "I also wish to discuss defense—arms, magic, and strategy.

  That is my primary reason for coming.

  I sense a looming threat.

  We must strengthen our defenses and share military intelligence."

  Asser nodded slowly.

  "A topic of such gravity...

  Requires a private meeting.

  Tomorrow, you and I—along with select advisors—will discuss it in depth."

  Lucas bowed his head.

  "I appreciate your discretion."

  "Of course," Asser said.

  He rose.

  "Gentlemen...

  Our summit concludes with fruitful outcomes.

  I look forward to the days ahead—

  Days of cooperation, honor, and truth."

  He gestured.

  "I invite you all to a royal luncheon—

  In honor of Prince Lucas and the Leona delegation."

  Everyone stood.

  Servants opened the grand doors opposite the hall, revealing a long table overflowing with delicacies—roasted meats, golden fruits, jeweled pastries, and steaming breads.

  Varon finally put the cup aside ...

  The green comet pulsed above Silva.

  The petals had been laid.

  *******************

  The Awakening - Beneath the Comet's Cold Light

  In the heart of Leona, beneath Silva's darkened sky, the green comet pulsed with eerie brilliance.

  Princess Lina stirred.

  Her eyes opened—blue as midnight, framed by hair white as snow.

  Healers and sages rushed through the palace corridors, their robes trailing behind them. The news spread swiftly: Lina had awakened.

  At the center of the commotion stood Arif—the elder statesman, once closest to King Leontes, father of Prince Lucas.

  King Leontes had survived an assassination attempt by the Black Order... only to fall into a mysterious illness. He lingered for a time, then passed quietly.

  Arif's eyes widened. He hurried to Lina's chamber.

  "At last!

  Prince Lucas will be overjoyed."

  He entered, breathless, and saw her—frail, pale, but awake.

  "My lady...

  You've returned.

  Your brother will rejoice."

  Lina's voice was slow, distant.

  "My head... it aches."

  "No wonder.

  You've slept for five years, my lady.

  Much has changed."

  She rose, walked to the balcony, and gazed upon the city.

  "What happened?

  Why does it look... like this?"

  Servants wrapped her in fine furs and cotton—woven in Aurik, soft and regal.

  Arif bowed.

  "A plague has spread.

  It devours our people, one by one.

  You were among its victims.

  But... it seems we've found a cure."

  A younger advisor stepped forward.

  "Shall I issue the order to distribute the medicine?"

  Arif's voice hardened.

  "No.

  Not until Prince Lucas returns.

  It is his decision."

  Advisor Nameq's face darkened.

  "But the princess awoke from the cure.

  Why wait?

  Must more of our people die?"

  "Silence!" Arif snapped.

  "Obey your orders."

  "Understood..."

  Lina watched, stunned.

  "My brother?"

  "He's in Aurik," Arif said.

  "Forging alliances.

  Seeking a cure."

  "And my father?"

  Arif's face fell.

  "He slept... like you.

  After the failed assassination.

  But his breath... eventually ceased."

  Lina covered her mouth, tears streaming.

  Arif knelt, trembling.

  "Forgive me.

  Had I been a better advisor...

  Perhaps we'd have found a cure sooner."

  "It's alright," Lina whispered.

  "I understand."

  "You must rest.

  Your body needs nourishment.

  I'll bring food."

  Arif hurried away.

  Lina sat on her bed.

  Her eyes flashed violet—then returned to their natural hue.

  She smiled.

  "Foolish advisor..."

  —

  In the palace corridor, Arif paused.

  He heard whispers.

  Nameq to another advisor:

  "The cure works.

  But Arif hides it.

  If we tell the people...

  They'll demand it.

  We'll force his hand."

  Arif stepped forward.

  "You!

  I told you to wait for the rightful authority!

  Why defy me?"

  He turned to the guards.

  "Arrest them!

  Traitors—until His Highness returns to judge them."

  Chains clinked. Doors slammed.

  Nameq glared at Arif.

  "Look all you want, traitor," Arif said.

  He turned, heading toward the kitchens.

  Unaware that behind him, Lina's smile lingered.

  And the comet burned colder.