Chapter 7

Chapter 7:

Prince Leon Morningstar embarked on his arduous journey from the opulent Great Capital of Morningstar toward the humble Roan province, carrying with him a hundred loyal imperial soldiers and a seasoned 4th class royal magician, all in accordance with his father's royal edict. The prince's unwavering determination was fueled by his commitment to fulfill the mission: to return with Illysha Moon safely to the imperial capital.

The path leading to the Roan province was marked by trials and tribulations, traversing vast plains, dense forests, and treacherous mountain passes. Despite the harsh conditions and formidable challenges, Prince Leon's resolve remained unshaken, driven by the desire to prove his mettle both to his father and the entire empire.

With each passing day, the prince's entourage drew nearer to their final destination—the Roan province. This region was renowned for its picturesque landscapes and fertile lands, a stark contrast to the bustling and glamorous life of the imperial capital. As the awe-inspiring scenery unfolded before him, Prince Leon couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the region, all while keeping his crucial mission firmly in mind.

In the heart of the Roan province, Illysha maintained her daily routine, a dedicated student of mana meditation and magical studies. The conducting mage and other official emissaries had yet to visit her again, granting her a precious opportunity to focus on her own magical growth and academic pursuits. Meanwhile, her mother, Celestia, had become accustomed to the newfound stability in their lives. She spent her days tending to her duties at the local market, her worries about Illysha's safety gradually fading.

Back on the winding road to the Roan province, Prince Leon's determined party approached the provincial capital. He had heard tales of the Roan province's quaint towns and charming landscapes from his father's advisors, but experiencing them firsthand was a unique and enlightening experience.

The prince harbored hopes that Illysha would be amenable to accompanying him to the imperial capital without resistance. He was acutely aware of the potential consequences should she choose to defy his mission, but he believed that bringing her back was a matter of great importance for the empire's future.

Finally, after days of relentless travel, Prince Leon's contingent arrived at the Roan province's capital. The bustling town was a hive of activity, its residents going about their daily lives seemingly unperturbed by the arrival of the imperial envoy.

With a sense of determination and curiosity, Prince Leon commenced his inquiries among the local populace about Illysha Moon and her current whereabouts. The responses he received were varied, reflecting the diverse knowledge and perceptions of the province's residents. While some had heard whispers of her extraordinary talents, others remained oblivious to her existence entirely. Unperturbed, the prince resolved to delve deeper into his investigation, visiting the locations where Illysha had last been seen.

As Prince Leon pieced together fragments of information, he couldn't help but ponder the enigma of the young girl bearing such extraordinary talents. What role would she ultimately play in the empire's unfolding narrative, and how would she respond to his mission to return her to the imperial capital?

Unbeknownst to Prince Leon Morningstar, he was about to become a player in a complex and intricate web of politics and power, and the fate of a young mage named Illysha Moon hung in the balance.