ATTACK OF THE SERAPHIM DEER I

The castle was unusually quiet, the absence of bustling footsteps and lively chatter leaving a hollow echo in its halls.

Most of the castle's inhabitants had departed on the perilous expedition to the Forest of Elder, leaving behind an air of apprehension that clung to the stone walls.

In the grand chamber, King Gale sat upon his throne, his brow furrowed with worry as he gazed out over the empty courtyard. His mind was a tempest of doubts and fears, haunted by the specter of past failures.

Queen Hana, ever perceptive to her husband's distress, approached him with gentle grace.

"Gale, my love, they will return safely. Have faith in their courage and determination," she reassured, her voice a soothing balm to his troubled thoughts.

King Gale turned to his queen, his eyes reflecting a blend of gratitude and uncertainty. "But what if... What if this expedition meets the same fate as those before?" he murmured, his voice tinged with a hint of despair.