CHAPTER -6
"Royal Reckoning"
Semira Von Sergovia, the third princess of the Sergovian Kingdom, had kept silent for the past five days. The revelation of her identity sent shockwaves through the group, prompting both disbelief and intrigue. It wasn't until she produced the Royal Family Crest that the truth became undeniable.
Finn, quick to grasp the gravity of the situation, immediately contacted Marx, the court magician of the Royal Palace. The ensuing arrival of Marx and the Royal Knights introduced an unexpected twist to the magical narrative.
"Princess Semira, kidnapped and found in the company of these mages? This is an unusual turn of events," Marx remarked, a mix of curiosity and bemusement in his tone.
Semira, standing tall despite her recent ordeal, confirmed her identity with a regal grace that left the onlookers in awe. The Court Magician, with a raised eyebrow, addressed Finn, "You certainly know how to attract royal attention, Master Finn."
Finn, with a wry smile, responded, "The mysteries of Arcanum unfold in unexpected ways, Marx. I merely play my part."
The Court Magician, after exchanging a few words with Princess Semira, turned his attention to the ones responsible for her rescue.
"Master Finn, who are the individuals that saved Princess Semira? I would like to speak with them," Marx requested, his demeanor a blend of official inquiry and genuine concern.
The group, now comprising Finn, Adrian, Elara, and Nicole, relocated to a separate room for a private discussion.
Elara, with a motherly warmth, recounted the events leading to Semira's rescue. "Your daughter showed remarkable strength and resilience. Adrian here played a crucial role in ensuring her safety."
Semira, in turn, provided her account of the kidnapping and Adrian's heroics. Marx, listening attentively, nodded in acknowledgment of the bravery displayed by the unlikely heroes.
Princess Semira took a deep breath, steadying herself before recounting the harrowing events that led to her kidnapping.
"It was during an evening stroll in the palace gardens," she began, her voice carrying a mixture of regret and vulnerability. "I often sought solace in the beauty of nature, away from the responsibilities that come with royalty."
Semira's gaze wandered, as if retracing the steps of that ill-fated evening. "As I was admiring the moonlit flowers, a stranger appeared. At first, I thought nothing of it—just another courtier, perhaps. But as I turned to leave, they revealed themselves to be part of a sinister plot."
The princess's eyes narrowed with a shadow of anger. "Before I could react, a group of masked individuals emerged from the shadows. Their faces concealed, their intentions clear. I was outnumbered, and their magic was unlike anything I had encountered before."
She paused, memories of that traumatic night etched across her features. "They used some kind of enchanted shackles, that immobilized me. Despite my attempts to resist, they overpowered me, rendering me helpless. The next thing I knew, I was being transported away, my world reduced to darkness and the cold grip of captivity."
Semira's recounting left a heavy silence in the room. The others listened with a mix of empathy and concern, realizing the princess had endured a nightmare far removed from the comforts of royal life.
"Master Finn, I extend my gratitude to you and these mages for saving Princess Semira. I, Marx, also apologize on behalf of the Royal Knights and as the Prime Minister of Sergovia for failing to protect her," Marx conveyed, a sense of responsibility weighing on his words.
The conversation, shifting towards the broader issue of the slave trades, unfolded with a blend of seriousness and determination. Marx, now fully informed, expressed his commitment to addressing the underlying problems that had allowed such atrocities to persist.
"Adrian, Elara, your actions have not gone unnoticed. You have proven yourselves as allies to the kingdom. I would like to extend an invitation to you," Marx declared, a glimmer of formality in his tone.
"An invitation?" Adrian questioned, a hint of curiosity in his eyes.
"To the Royal Palace in the capital. King Vorian would like to personally express his gratitude and discuss matters of importance," Marx explained, his gaze shifting between the mages.
Adrian, initially hesitant, weighed the potential importance of such a meeting. "Very well, we'll accompany you to the Royal Palace."
The journey to the capital unfolded swiftly, the landscape transitioning from the quaint town of Vantice to the bustling heart of the kingdom. As they approached the grandeur of the Royal Palace, the anticipation hung in the air, promising revelations and challenges that lay ahead in the enchanted realm of Arcanum.