Chapter 2: Veil of Secrets

"I mean no harm. My visit is solely to advise your daughter,"the figure spoke, her voice calm and measured, betraying no hint of malice

*sip*

*sriil*

"And what t-that might...be? Are you one of seven generals?" After hearing her answer Alexia feels a bit easy however she holds her sword in a vertical position show casing her aggression towards her.

"If you're going, do it alone and in secret. Don't overestimate yourself—you're not important enough for one of the Seven Shadows to watch over... I am Number 225."(225)

"So I consider, you were listening our conversation...."(Alexia's Father)

After hearing that she is not even one of the generals and yet she was not only in their castle but also eavesdropping their conversation without the knowledge of anyone brought the cold sweats not only on the face of Alexia but on her father's face as well.

".....Why without escort?"(Alexia)

"I don't think..I need to explain....do I, Your Majesty, Klaus Midgar?"(225)

"Yes,...b-because if you go to the oriana kingdom in this situation then they will surely be suspicious about you and the matter of fact is that you might already be one of their target since you know alot about them. So...."(Klaus)

"This will be the best time to close my chapter as they will be hunting two birds with one arrow as the oriana kingdom will be suspected of my murder...How cunn--"(Alexia)

"Now, let me ask you this: Do you hold any resentment towards the Shadow Garden?" said Number 225.

Before Alexia and her father could reach to their conclusion, number 225 nonchalantly asks them about their personal views because this will be the deciding factor for the destruction during the War and the aftermath of it.

"...."

"I-No, the Shadow Garden is asking this of you, Klaus Midgar, because your answer will determine our actions towards you and the cult within your country during the battle."

*sip*

"I have always maintained my neutrality because I cannot oppose them, and I extend the same sentiment to you. However, if your actions do not threaten my kingdom, I can promise to accommodate the Shadow Garden to the best of my ability." (Klaus)

"Well, that's a favorable attitude because....THIS IS NOT ABOUT ACCOMMODATING US IN YOUR KINGDOM; IT'S ABOUT YOUR SURVIVAL....So don't worry; in the near future, you will be ordered to launch an all-out attack. We will strive to minimize casualties, but none will be spared."(225)

As the ominous words echoed in the dimly moon lit room, Alexia's and her father's heart plummeted into the depths of fear. They felt as though icy tendrils of dread were coiling around them, suffocating them with their chilling grip. Her breath caught in there throat, and there hands trembled uncontrollably as they struggled to process the gravity of the threat hanging over her.

"W-Why should w-we trust...y-?" Alexia's voice trembled as she struggled to form her question.

'Wh-?!' Before Alexia could finish her sentence, her vision went dark. Not because she was injured, but because Number 225 was so close to her, all she could see was the blackness of her outfit.

"YOU ARE A.L.I.V.E," Number 225 stated bluntly, the words hanging heavy in the air.

*Gulp*

She understood that if they wanted to kill her then she might have long gone but she is standing here is enough proof that they don't want to kill her.

Then suddenly, she felt a cold, sharp sensation on her throat. As she lowered her head slightly, she was horrified to see a shiny, dark metal object—a knife or mini sword—its color akin to the darkness of the abyss. A small trail of something viscous flowed down the blade's edge, her own blood from a small cut at her throat. Every fiber of her being screamed at her to flee.

"We... I-I'm so sorry. Please, forgive us!" Klaus pleaded, his voice trembling with fear and regret.

As soon as Alexia's father comprehended what's going on there. His face becomes pale from the terror of shadow garden power as blood has already started dripping and seeing her daughter in such a state in front of him, he lowered his head immediately while asking for forgiveness.

"Well that winds up my business" saying this nonchalantly, number 225 crosses them and jumped from the balcony, leaving both the daughter and the father in state of trauma.

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In the heart of this intricate world lies the Oriana Kingdom, a realm of cultural splendor and strategic significance. To its south, the dense and mysterious Emerald Forest serves as a natural barrier, separating Oriana from the verdant expanse of the Kingdom of Verdantia. This forest, with its towering ancient trees and teeming wildlife, forms an almost mystical boundary that both unites and divides these neighboring lands.

To the north, the imposing Silvercrest Mountains rise, their peaks perpetually cloaked in snow. These mountains mark the boundary between Oriana and the formidable Midgar Kingdom. Among these treacherous heights lies the Dragon's Maw Pass, the sole navigable route through the mountains, a vital artery for trade and travel.

To the northeast, the swift and mighty Azure River flows, delineating the border between Oriana and the militaristic Zenon Empire. This river, its waters clear and cold, is both a lifeline and a line of defense, with fortified towns standing vigilant along its banks, ever watchful of the empire beyond.

To the northwest, the rolling Verdant Plains stretch out, a vast sea of grasslands punctuated by serene lakes and colorful wildflowers. These plains form the boundary with the Holy Church's territories. Though the land here is open and fertile, the strategic placement of fortresses and border towns ensures a balance of power and peace between Oriana and the Holy Church.

This map, with its natural barriers and carefully placed settlements, weaves a tapestry of interwoven destinies, each kingdom poised on the brink of its own unfolding saga.