Chaosbound: Elarith Chronicles

The gates of the Dusk Kingdom loomed tall, intricately carved with depictions of past triumphs and losses. As Aurel and his companions stepped inside, the air grew heavy with tension. Soldiers near the entrance immediately rushed forward, their wary vigilance giving way to palpable concern upon seeing Naevin's battered state. Murmurs rippled through their ranks, a mixture of fear and confusion evident.

"Another attack?" one whispered, his hand tightening on his sword hilt. "The Umbrafangs again? Or their Malus?"

Aurel glanced at the soldiers, sensing the fragility of their morale. Kirin, still on alert, sharply scanned their surroundings for any signs of hostility. Rindel, true to form, remained silent, his steady gaze unyielding as ever.

Naevin, despite his weakened condition, straightened himself with as much dignity as he could muster. His hoarse voice, nonetheless, carried authority as he called to a soldier, "You there—come here."

The soldier hurried to his side, saluting sharply. "Yes, Sir Naevin?"

Naevin gestured toward Aurel and his group. "Escort them directly to the king. Treat them with the utmost respect. They carry the insignia of the Royal Vanguard."

The soldier's eyes widened, recognition dawning as he glanced at Aurel's badge. He nodded quickly, his earlier concern replaced by a strong sense of duty. "Understood, Sir Naevin."

Turning back to Aurel, Naevin coughed, a faint trace of blood still staining his lips. He bowed his head slightly—a gesture of apology and acknowledgment. "I must take my leave now and tend to the soldiers. They need leadership more than ever. The soldier I've appointed will ensure you reach the king."

Aurel studied Naevin for a moment, his expression unreadable. After a brief pause, he simply nodded.

As Naevin turned to address his soldiers, the appointed escort stepped forward, gesturing respectfully to Aurel. "This way, please."

Aurel exchanged a glance with Kirin and Rindel before nodding. "Let's go."

As they passed under the shadow of the kingdom's towering gates, the whispers and watchful eyes of the soldiers lingered behind them, a stark reminder of the fragile peace they carried into the heart of the Dusk Kingdom. The streets of the Dusk Kingdom felt suffocating, cloaked in a heavy silence that only grief and fear could conjure. Aurel and his companions strode down the cobbled road toward the castle, the weight of sorrow pressing down on them like a tangible force. Townsfolk lingered in doorways and windows, their faces pale and somber, their eyes darting nervously toward the shadows beyond the castle walls. Few dared venture out, as if the world beyond was too dangerous to face.

Aurel glanced around, his curiosity piqued by the oppressive atmosphere. "Might I ask a question?" he finally said, turning to the soldier leading them. His tone was calm but carried an edge of authority. "Did something happen here? Why do the people look as though they're in mourning?"

The soldier hesitated, his brows furrowing. He kept his gaze ahead but answered quietly, "Ah… I suppose you wouldn't know. The kingdom is grieving the loss of one of its princes—Prince Altheris. He was killed by two members of the Umbrafang while on his way here."

The weight of the soldier's words settled over Aurel like lead, and understanding dawned. This explained the hostility they'd faced and the aggression of the Dusk Kingdom's forces. Their prince's death wasn't just a loss—it was a wound to the heart of the kingdom, and anyone resembling their enemy was met with swift suspicion.

Deciding not to press further, Aurel nodded and kept silent. He exchanged a glance with Kirin, whose expression tightened with unease, and Rindel, who remained impassive but quietly observant. Together, they followed the soldier toward the towering silhouette of the castle.

As they approached the grand doors, guards stepped forward to intercept them. Their sharp, scrutinizing gazes swept over Aurel's group, lingering on Kirin's massive, heavily-laden backpack—a sight that would raise eyebrows even without the tense circumstances.

One guard stepped forward, holding up a hand. "Before you proceed, surrender your weapons and any potentially dangerous items," he said, his tone firm and unyielding.

Aurel inclined his head slightly, his demeanor calm and composed. "Of course." Turning to his team, he motioned for them to comply. Without hesitation, they began handing over their weapons.

Kirin placed his massive backpack on the ground with a heavy thud, eliciting a wary look from the guards. Rindel unsheathed his blade slowly, placing it before the guards with meticulous care, while Aurel handed over his dagger and other small implements. Despite the loss of their weaponry, Aurel felt no concern. His confidence in his ability to protect his companions—even without a weapon—remained steadfast.

With their weapons confiscated, the guards stepped aside, allowing the soldier escorting them to lead on. Aurel glanced at his team, silently signaling readiness, and together, they crossed the threshold into the heart of the kingdom, where the answers to this tangled web of grief and suspicion awaited.

The castle guards escorted Aurel and his companions through the grand halls of the Dusk Kingdom's fortress, the sound of their boots echoing against the polished stone floor. They were led to a well-furnished meeting room, where the warm glow of candlelight contrasted with the heavy atmosphere outside. The guards gestured for them to enter, one stepping forward to speak. "Please, feel free to take a seat. Refreshments will be provided shortly."

The trio settled in, each reacting differently to the change in setting. Aurel took a seat at the long, intricately carved wooden table and reached for a goblet of cool, sweet drink. His composure remained steady as he sipped, waiting patiently. Rindel, silent and watchful as ever, positioned himself near the wall, his presence subdued but sharp, like a coiled spring. Meanwhile, Kirin dove into the array of snacks and drinks with enthusiasm, quickly downing his first drink before flagging down one of the attendants. "Hey, uh, could I get another one of these? And maybe seconds on the desserts? I'm starving!"

The attendant blinked but quickly complied, returning moments later with another goblet and more sweet confections. Kirin gave a sheepish grin. "Thanks, really appreciate it."

Aurel cast Kirin a calm glance, his lips curving into a faint smile. "Pace yourself. We're here as guests, remember."

Kirin nodded, though he couldn't resist snagging another small dessert from the tray. Rindel, for his part, remained unmoving, his expression blank and lifeless as though he were carved from stone.

Moments later, the large double doors swung open with a creak, and a small entourage entered, led by the king himself—King Vareth. He was a commanding figure, exuding both regality and weariness, as though the burdens of the kingdom weighed heavily upon him. Walking slightly behind him was Dame Kaelisia, a figure as enigmatic as she was prophetic. Her serene face carried an air of mystery, and her piercing eyes seemed to reflect something otherworldly. Her presence was both soothing and unnerving, as if she knew far more than she let on.

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The king approached with open hands, his tone apologetic yet warm. "Apologies for the wait," he began, his voice deep and steady. "I am glad to see you here, safe and sound. I also understand you were intercepted by my forces. For that, I must extend my sincerest apologies. Please understand that the people and soldiers of the Dusk Kingdom are wary—perhaps overly so—of anyone from outside these walls, especially after recent events."

Aurel rose to his feet, his demeanor respectful yet confident. "It's no trouble," he replied evenly. "Please forgive us if we disciplined your men on our way here. They were… insistent."

The king waved a hand dismissively, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Ah, let us put that unfortunate beginning behind us. A fresh start is in order. The honor is ours to receive the Royal Vanguard within these halls. I presume your presence concerns the investigation of the southern territories?"

Aurel inclined his head. "Yes, Your Majesty. Forgive us if we came uninvited, but time was of the essence. The activities in the southern territories have been escalating, and rumors reached us of something amiss. We had to act quickly to uncover any connection to the forces we oppose."

King Vareth nodded gravely, his expression darkening as his thoughts turned to the troubles plaguing his kingdom. "I appreciate your swift action. There is much to discuss, and your presence here could not have come at a better time."

Dame Kaelisia, standing beside the king, observed the group with an unreadable expression, her hands clasped together as though in quiet prayer. The room fell into a momentary silence, the weight of what lay ahead settling over them all.

The king prepared to speak further, but Dame Kaelisia stepped forward, her enigmatic presence commanding the room. With a subtle gesture, she called upon one of the castle guards stationed by the door. "Please escort His Majesty out," she said, her voice firm yet respectful, carrying an air of quiet authority. "The king has pressing matters that require his attention, and the preparations for the mourning session must not be delayed."

The guard responded swiftly, bowing and moving to the king's side. King Vareth gave a slight nod of acknowledgment, his gaze lingering briefly on the Vanguard before turning to leave. "Once again, I apologize for my inability to remain," he said, his voice heavy with the weight of loss. "Dame Kaelisia will assist you in my stead."

Aurel watched the scene unfold, sensing the gravity of the king's departure and the responsibility now placed on Kaelisia. As the doors closed behind Vareth and his escort, Kaelisia turned to address the Vanguard, her expression composed but tinged with a subtle determination.

"Forgive us," she began, her tone even and measured. "As you can see, His Majesty's duties leave him little room for extended discussions. On his behalf, I will handle the matters at hand. Your presence here is of great importance, and I will do everything in my power to assist you and answer your questions."

Aurel inclined his head slightly, his demeanor respectful. "Please, there's no need to apologize," he said. "We understand completely. We would not dare hold the king's time while he is mourning."

Kaelisia's gaze softened with gratitude at Aurel's words. She gestured toward the table and seating, inviting them to settle back as she prepared to begin the discussion. Aurel took his seat again, his patience unwavering, while Kirin shifted in his chair, still glancing toward the tray of sweets on the side. Rindel remained silent and still, his detached presence no less imposing.

Aurel leaned forward slightly, his voice calm but laced with urgency. "I hope you don't mind if we start asking questions," he began, his gaze steady on Kaelisia.

Kaelisia nodded, her expression unreadable but open to the inquiry. "Of course," she replied. "Ask what you will."

Aurel didn't waste a moment. "Tell us about the prince's death. Describe everything you discovered from the crime scene. Describe the assaulters. How long have they been troubling your kingdom?"

Kaelisia's demeanor hardened slightly at the mention of the prince, a flicker of grief crossing her face before she spoke. "It began not long ago, when one of our people vanished. Days later, we found their body." She paused, choosing her words carefully. "Their eyes had turned black, their body cold as ice, pale as if frozen and petrified. The same… affliction befell Prince Altheris."

A heavy silence hung in the air before she continued. "These attackers call themselves Umbrafangs. They claim to serve the rightful ruler of the south. Survivors, few as they are, describe the same two individuals leading these assaults. One of them…" She hesitated, her piercing eyes shifting to Rindel. "One of them had horns and a face like—" She gestured subtly toward him. "Like your companion there."

Rindel remained motionless, his expression as lifeless as stone, but Aurel intervened swiftly, his voice cutting through the tension. "Don't worry," he said, offering a measured smile. "He isn't like them. He's…" Aurel hesitated for the briefest moment before continuing, "…sick. His face is the result of his training and experiments conducted by the Vanguard."

Kirin, mid-sip of his drink, choked and coughed, nearly spilling it in his lap. "Y-yes, that's right," he said quickly, recovering with an awkward laugh. "Our poor friend here is, uh, sick."

Kaelisia's gaze lingered on Rindel for a long moment before she shifted her attention back to Aurel, her expression neutral but her thoughts clearly racing. "I see."

Clearing her throat, she resumed. "When we found the prince's caravan, it was… devastation. The wreckage looked as though a beast had rammed through it. Soldiers were found impaled on what appeared to be weapons, yet the markings left behind were unlike any we've ever seen. No blade or weapon forged by mortals could cause such damage. It was…" She hesitated, her voice faltering. "It was as if demons had descended upon them."

She paused to compose herself before adding, "Even the Divinants we've sent to investigate other attacks in the south have not returned. Whatever these creatures are, they are powerful. Far stronger than we anticipated."

Aurel absorbed her words in silence, his expression betraying no emotion, though his mind raced with possibilities. He glanced briefly at Kirin, who looked unusually serious now, and at Rindel, who stood unaffected by the scrutiny, his calm unshaken.

"Thank you for sharing this," Aurel finally said, his tone steady. "It paints a clearer picture of the threat we're facing."

Kaelisia gave a small nod, though the tension in her posture remained. "I will tell you whatever else you need to know. But be warned—those who face the Umbrafangs rarely return alive."

Kaelisia stepped back slightly, her tone softening as she addressed the Vanguard. "I have arranged accommodations for your stay. Feel free to remain as long as necessary to conduct your investigation. While we may not fully understand your methods, rest assured that your presence and assistance are greatly welcomed. Anything you require—just ask, and we will do our best to provide."

She paused, a faint but genuine smile crossing her lips. "For now, please rest and regain your strength. Food and drinks will be made available upon request. I'm certain you must be hungry after your journey."

Aurel gave her a nod of gratitude, his tone calm yet appreciative. "We understand. Thank you for your kindness. We will make sure not to impose."

Kaelisia inclined her head in return, then straightened. "I must now excuse myself. There are matters that demand my attention, as I am acting on behalf of the king during this difficult time. But before I leave, I will appoint someone to assist you."

Turning toward one of the soldiers stationed nearby, Kaelisia gestured firmly. "Send Kirvin in."

The soldier saluted and promptly exited the room. Moments later, Kirvin entered—a young but capable-looking man clad in well-maintained armor, his posture firm and attentive as he approached. Kaelisia regarded him with measured authority. "Kirvin, you will assist the Vanguard. Ensure that they have everything they need and provide any help they require during their investigation. Understood?"

Kirvin nodded sharply, his voice steady but with a trace of eagerness. "Understood, Dame Kaelisia. I will do my best."

Kaelisia turned back to Aurel and his companions, her expression softening once more. "You are in capable hands. May your efforts bring us closer to uncovering the truths that plague our lands."

As Kaelisia exited the room, Kirvin stood at attention, his gaze sweeping over the trio. "If there's anything you need, do not hesitate to ask. I'm here to ensure your investigation goes smoothly."

Aurel regarded Kirvin for a moment, his sharp eyes assessing the soldier's demeanor. With a slight nod, he spoke evenly, "Thank you. Let's begin soon."