The Flame's Ascent

The grand hall of the Crimson Keep loomed vast and imposing, its vaulted ceilings adorned with intricate murals depicting the founders' legendary deeds. A line of sunlight filtered through the stained-glass windows, casting the room in fractured hues of crimson and gold. At the far end, Queen Seraphina Caelum stood, her platinum-blonde hair gleaming under the shifting light. Her crimson-red eyes swept over the gathered nobles, their postures stiff with barely concealed unease.

"The rebellion grows bolder," Seraphina began, her voice cold and sharp. "They seek to undermine the foundation of this kingdom with lies and treachery. We cannot allow it."

Among the assembled was Vera Astrielle, standing beside her twin brother, Veryl. Vera's blue eyes were fixed on the queen, her expression calm but wary. Veryl, in contrast, wore a faint smirk, his hands resting casually on the gilded railing of the gallery.

Lynx Fenwyk stood near the back, his hood partially obscuring his mismatched eyes. He hated these gatherings. The suffocating air of power and pretense always made his skin crawl. But he had come, as he always did, to observe and learn.

"Reports indicate that the rebels are spreading their lies to the commoners," Seraphina continued, her tone heavy with disdain. "They claim to know the truth about the founders. But we know better."

Lynx's gaze drifted to Prince Alaric, who stood to the queen's right. The prince's expression was unreadable, his crimson eyes fixed on the queen. Lynx couldn't shake the feeling that Alaric's mind was elsewhere, grappling with thoughts he dared not share.