5 The Conference

Everyone was taken aback by her peculiar behavior.

"Let's commence the conference," she declared, her face devoid of any emotion.

"I've gone through all your concerns. Based on them, the mortality rate has risen, and magic is waning. What about the herbs I provided to each of you?" she inquired.

"Princess, the herbs did aid in healing, but their effects were short-lived; the ailment returned after a few days," responded the Phoenix Leader.

"The same holds true for all of us," added the Griffin leader.

"I've recently devised an alternative approach, although it's temporary. Nonetheless, I intend to implement it with your cooperation," she explained, and they all nodded in agreement.

"I need each of you to bring the affected beasts to the island. This time, I plan to use the water from the Magical Lake along with other magical essences. It will require my magical power and a bit from each of you to enhance its potency. Additionally, you'll receive a list of specific herbs to collect from your regions. Once you've gathered the herbs, I'll instruct you on when to bring your people here. If there are any other issues, please feel free to discuss them."

The Dragon Leader then voiced his concern, "Princess, we'll follow your instructions, but we should seek a permanent solution for this disease."

Mia sighed deeply, her voice heavy with concern. "I'm aware of the situation. I've discreetly examined some of the afflicted, and it's not a disease but an evil spirit. It was ensnared within the rose, much like my familiar's soul. This spirit targets those who possess immense kindness, unable to be subdued by its malevolence. Instead, it devours their hopes, plunging them into despair until death claims them."

The Phoenix Leader, visibly troubled, inquired, "If it's a spirit, there must be a way to capture it?"

Mia met his gaze. "There is indeed a way to vanquish the spirit, but it's exceptionally challenging."

A determined look crossed the White Wolf Leader's face as he stood up. "Please, tell us. No matter how difficult it is, we're all committed to assisting you."

They all nodded in resolute agreement, ready to face the formidable task ahead. 

She rose from her chair, walking towards the window behind her, her eyes fixed on a distant memory. "My familiar, Hao, was imprisoned within the Black Rose from the very beginning. He was the soul of the Rose," she explained, her words carrying the weight of ancient secrets. 

"He once revealed to me that when I was born, a child's cry echoed in the cave, and at that moment, the rose vanished. The guards also witnessed it. Nearly ten years before my birth, the same cry resounded in the cave. A white mark on the last petal vanished with that cry, and that day, my destined mate was born," she continued, her gaze piercing through the past.

"He bears a rose mark on his body, the only way to recognize him, and he is among the Four Magical Beasts, the only one capable of aiding us. Our union is fated, and it is your task to seek him out among your people," she concluded, her words hanging in the air, carrying the weight of destiny and purpose.

The Beasts were visibly shocked by this revelation.

The Griffin leader spoke up, his voice laden with concern, "But humans and beasts being together brings ultimate misfortune. Moreover, Princess, you possess unparalleled power in the Magical Realm, even surpassing us. In the Magical World, one can only marry someone of equal power."

"He's right, Princess. Additionally, humans have shorter lifespans compared to beasts," the Dragon Leader added, his curiosity evident.

"I am aware of the challenges, but it's my destiny, something I cannot alter. Regarding my lifespan, I can endure longer than most humans. A Magical Beast's lifespan extends up to 150 years, and it's the same for me. Just like how a Magical Beast's aging slows down after the age of 18, it applies to me too. If there are no further concerns and decisions have been made, I would like to conclude this meeting," she said, firm in her resolution.

They all unanimously pledged their support to help her find her mate, concluding the conference on a positive note.

However, before they dispersed, the Phoenix leader spoke up, his tone concerned, "Princess, if there's anything that upset you or if we made a mistake, please share it with us."

"Very well, then," Mia began, her gaze stern as she addressed them collectively. "You're all aware of the island's rules, particularly the one about not bringing anyone here without informing me." She fixed her gaze on each of them, her expression unwavering.

Confusion marked their faces as they nodded in acknowledgment.

"Sincerely, tell me, who broke this law," she demanded.

A heavy silence settled in the room. None of them uttered a word. After a while, Mia broke the silence, her voice firm. "I've been on the island since morning. I discovered that something I placed in the conference room was missing. The aura of a White Wolf was present, but its scent differed from that of the Wolf Leader. After a thorough search, I found that one of the magical jades was used and they are items reserved for leaders only. I'll let this matter go for now, but remember this: if such an incident occurs again, don't expect my mercy. You may all leave now."

The Wolf Leader fell to the ground, his voice trembling, "Princess..."

Mia swiftly moved to his side, helping him to his feet. "I've already made it clear that I've forgiven this transgression, but there must be no repetition. Bowing before me won't change that and kindly don't kneel infront of me again because I'm not a deity; I'm merely a human with a bit more strength."

Later, upon her return home, an eerie silence enveloped the house. Mia scanned the rooms, finding no one present.

In that moment, Hao materialized, his form stained with blood, a foreboding aura surrounding him.