A few days had passed since that afternoon in the garden, when Nyellen had said something that continued to echo in Hakuro's mind. He couldn’t stop thinking about her words:

  — You will be great, Hakuro. Something we cannot yet see clearly awaits you in the future.

  Those phrases seemed to hold a greater mystery, something beyond his comprehension, even with his ancient soul. But even though he didn’t fully understand, Hakuro felt that something was about to change. There was an anticipation in the air, as if fate were silently moving around him.

  He continued exploring the mansion and spending hours in the library, but there was a restlessness in his gestures. He flipped through the books with less enthusiasm, observed the dusty spines with distant eyes, and sometimes even forgot to ask Arysa to read to him.

  — Hakuro-sama, is everything alright? — Arysa asked one time, noticing his distraction.

  He hesitated for a moment before answering.

  — Yes… I’m just thinking.

  Arysa exchanged a worried glance with Lady Nyellen later, during lunch.

  — He seems different lately — Arysa commented, lowering her voice. — Quieter, as if something is bothering him.

  Nyellen nodded, her gaze fixed on her son. There was something in his eyes — something she, as a legendary healer and former S-rank adventurer, recognized immediately. It was the same glimmer she’d seen so many times in battle companions before major decisions or transformative events. A mix of restlessness, determination, and… destiny.

  — He’s different — Nyellen said, lowering her voice so only Arysa could hear. — But it’s not a bad thing. It’s as if he’s trying to understand something much greater than ourselves.

  Arysa frowned, confused.

  — What do you mean? Do you think something is wrong with him?

  Nyellen slowly shook her head, but her eyes remained thoughtful.

  — No, Arysa. It’s not something wrong. On the contrary, it’s almost… inevitable. — She paused, as if carefully choosing her next words. — When I was young, before I became a legendary healer, I traveled the world as part of an elite team. We fought titanic monsters, faced forbidden dungeons, and even challenged the very limits of death. And during all those adventures, I learned something important: when destiny calls, it doesn’t do so with shouts. It whispers. Silently, it plants a seed in the minds of those destined to change the world. And that seed… grows.

  Nyellen sighed, her expression softening as she watched Hakuro from a distance. He was sitting at the table, distractedly fiddling with a piece of bread, lost in thought.

  — I see it in him now — she continued. — This restlessness, this distant look… it’s as if he’s hearing something no one else can. Something only he can feel.

  Arysa was silent for a moment, absorbing Nyellen’s words. She knew well her mistress’s history — tales of her heroic feats were told in taverns and guilds throughout the kingdom. Knowing that Lady Nyellen saw something so profound in Hakuro left her with a strange, almost reverent feeling.

  — So… what should we do? — Arysa finally asked, hesitantly.

  Nyellen smiled, but there was a touch of sadness in her red eyes.

  — We wait. And we support him. He’ll need us sooner or later. But he’ll also need to find his own path. — She paused, then added: — There are things even a high-ranking healer can’t predict or control. And Hakuro… he’s too special to be contained by any of us.

  Meanwhile, at the table, Alek watched the interaction between Nyellen and Arysa with his arms crossed over his chest, his expression clearly irritated. He couldn’t help but feel bothered by all the attention Hakuro received. It was always like that — ever since the day he was born. The youngest was treated as if he were a precious relic, while he, the legitimate heir, seemed to go unnoticed.

  — Of course, always Hakuro — Alek muttered under his breath, but loud enough to catch Nyellen’s attention.

  She turned to him, raising an eyebrow delicately.

  — Did you say something, Alek?

  Alek hesitated for a moment, but soon straightened up in his chair, as if he wanted to appear more confident than he really was.

  — Yes, I did. I don’t know why everything always revolves around him. He’s just... a strange child with lilac hair and purple eyes. Why does everyone act as if he were some kind of prodigy? — His voice had a bitter tone, almost challenging.

  Nyellen sighed softly, exchanging a brief glance with Arysa before turning her attention back to Alek. She placed a gentle hand on her son’s shoulder, her touch filled with calm and understanding.

  — Alek... you know how hard it is to be different, don’t you? — she asked, her voice soft but firm.

  Alek frowned, surprised by the question. He opened his mouth to respond, but Nyellen continued before he could say anything.

  — Remember when Kyra was the firstborn? How everyone looked at her, admired her, talked about her achievements? You were jealous of her, weren’t you? You felt like you needed to prove your worth, that you wanted to be noticed as much as she was.

  Alek looked away, embarrassed. He knew exactly what Nyellen was talking about. When Kyra was still known as “the Yalareth daughter,” everyone praised her for her beauty, intelligence, and talent. He, as the second-born, often felt overshadowed by her. To this day, he remembered the feeling of being ignored or compared to such a perfect sister.

  — But now... — Nyellen continued, leaning slightly to catch Alek’s gaze again — ...you are the heir. Everyone knows that. You hold an important position in this family, and no one will ever question it. What you’re feeling now... is similar to what Kyra felt when you were born. And now, Hakuro is going through something similar.

  Alek blinked, surprised. He had never thought about it that way. He had always seen Hakuro as just a strange child, someone who stole the attention that should have been directed at him. But now, hearing Nyellen’s words, he began to understand that perhaps there was something deeper going on.

  — Hakuro... he’s not doing well — added Nyellen, her voice soft but full of concern. — He seems restless, lost in thoughts that go beyond the comprehension of a normal child. Look at him, Alek. — She pointed to Hakuro, who was still sitting at the table, absentmindedly playing with a piece of bread. His purple eyes were fixed on something invisible, as if trying to decipher a riddle far greater than should fit into a five-year-old child.

  Alek looked at his brother and, for the first time, noticed something he had never seen before: the glimmer of uncertainty in Hakuro’s eyes, the same feeling of inadequacy that he himself had felt so many times.

  — Maybe... — Alek murmured finally, his voice lower and less defensive — ...maybe I’ve been too hard on him.

  Nyellen smiled, squeezing Alek’s shoulder affectionately.

  — It’s never too late to change the way we see things, my son. And who knows? Perhaps you can be the person Hakuro needs most right now. Someone who understands him, who guides him.

  Alek nodded slowly, though there was still a trace of hesitation in his eyes. He wasn’t sure how to handle Hakuro, but maybe he could try. After all, he knew better than anyone what it was like to feel forgotten or misunderstood.

  Nyellen rose from the table, turning her attention to Hakuro.

  — Come, Hakuro. Let’s go out for a while. We need to order your outfit for the baptism. A change of scenery might do us all some good.

  Hakuro raised his eyes, surprised, but soon nodded, rising carefully from his chair. He took Nyellen’s hand, and together they began walking toward the main entrance of the mansion. Before leaving, Nyellen cast one last look at Alek, a look that said more than words could express.

  — Think about what we discussed, Alek. You’re strong enough to understand this.

  With that, Nyellen and Hakuro left the room, leaving Alek alone with his thoughts. He stayed there for a moment, looking at the spot where they had been sitting. For the first time, he began to question his feelings toward his brother. Maybe Hakuro wasn’t just "an aberration." Maybe he was something more. And maybe, just maybe, Alek could find a way to come to terms with it.

  On the way to the atelier, Nyellen took the opportunity to show Hakuro more of the city where they lived. He already knew the hallways of the mansion, but now he wanted to discover more about the outside world. The streets of Yalareth were wide and well-maintained, with light wood buildings and red ceramic roofs. Large windows and flower-filled balconies brought life to the buildings, and ornate lampposts stood at regular intervals, promising to illuminate the nights with magic.

  They stopped in front of a candy stall, and Nyellen bought a small golden, round bread filled with a yellow cream that seemed to glow in the sunlight.

  — Try this — she said, handing the treat to Hakuro.

  He looked at the bread suspiciously.

  — It looks kinda… weird.

  — Just take a bite — encouraged Nyellen, amused.

  With a little hesitation, he took a bite… and then his eyes widened.

  The flavor was indescribable — sweet, but with a citrusy touch that seemed to dance on his tongue. It was like tasting something he had never imagined, and for a moment, all his worries disappeared.

  — D-Delicious!

  Before he could finish the sentence, the treat had already vanished from his hands. Nyellen just laughed and wiped the corner of her son’s mouth with an embroidered handkerchief.

  — If you liked it, we can buy more later. Now, let’s go to the atelier.

  When they arrived at the atelier, Hakuro frowned, confused. The building looked tilted, as if it were about to collapse. Its walls were uneven, and the roof seemed to have been hastily thrown on.

  — Mommy… this house… is crooked?

  Nyellen smiled, enigmatic.

  — Wait until we go in.

  As they crossed the threshold, Hakuro was impressed. The interior of the atelier was extremely organized and elegant. Fine fabrics lined the shelves, and the soft aroma of lavender filled the air, creating an atmosphere of refined tranquility.

  A cheerful elf greeted them with a welcoming smile.

  — Lady Nyellen, it's a pleasure to see you again! — he said, bowing elegantly. — And this little one must be Hakuro.

  Nyellen smiled and introduced her son.

  — Yes, indeed this is Hakuro, my youngest.

  As they headed toward the fitting room, Hakuro noticed something peculiar. An elven girl, apparently the same age as him, was sitting in a corner, focused on sewing a delicate piece. Her golden blonde hair shone under the soft light, and her green eyes sparkled like emeralds. She wore an elegant light pink dress with a matching bow in her hair.

  She moved her hands with impressive precision, as if each stitch were part of a silent melody.

  — Who is she? — Hakuro asked, discreetly pointing.

  Elfynor followed the boy’s gaze and smiled.

  — Ah, that’s my daughter, Lynn. She’s learning the craft with us. Very talented for someone so young.

  Hakuro frowned again, intrigued. There was something about her that sparked his curiosity, but he couldn’t explain what. Lynn, for her part, seemed absorbed in her work, unaware that she was being watched.

  Nyellen noticed Hakuro’s interest and exchanged a meaningful look with Elfynor. The tailor nodded slightly, as if understanding what she was thinking.

  — Hakuro — Nyellen called, leaning down to speak to her son — would you like to get to know Lynn better? She can show you some of the pieces she’s creating while we take your measurements.

  Hakuro hesitated for a moment but soon nodded, feeling a growing curiosity. He took a few hesitant steps toward the girl, while Nyellen turned to Elfynor.

  — Shall we start the measurements then? — Nyellen said, smiling at the tailor. — We need to make sure the tunic is perfect for the baptism.

  Elfynor agreed with a nod and picked up a magical measuring tape that floated beside him, ready to record every detail with precision.

  — Of course, Lady Nyellen. We’ll do everything as expected. In the meantime, perhaps Lynn can entertain the young master with her creations.

  Nyellen smiled and gave an encouraging gesture to Hakuro, who was already standing next to Lynn, observing her attentively.

  Lynn raised her eyes when she noticed his presence. Her green eyes sparkled with surprise, but she quickly lowered her head, showing shyness.

  — Hi… — she said, her voice soft and melodic, almost like a whisper. — Do you need something?

  Hakuro blushed slightly, feeling strangely nervous. He wasn’t used to starting conversations, especially with someone who seemed so… radiant.

  — I… just wanted to know what you’re sewing — he finally said, pointing to the delicate green dress she held.

  Lynn’s eyes lit up with enthusiasm, and she lifted the piece so he could see it better.

  — It’s a dress for the daughter of a noble — she explained, proudly. — I’m practicing new stitches. Dad says I’m good at it, but I think I still have a lot to learn.

  Hakuro tilted his head, observing the intricate details of the embroidery. Each stitch seemed placed with intention, as if telling a silent story.

  — It looks amazing — he said, sincere. — Where did you learn to do this?

  Lynn smiled, clearly pleased with the compliment.

  — My mother taught me. She says sewing is like telling a story… every stitch has meaning.

  — A story? What do you mean? — Hakuro asked, intrigued.

  She laughed softly, as if amused that he didn’t understand something so obvious.

  — Well, look at this stitch here — she said, pointing to a tiny flower embroidered on the fabric. — This flower represents hope. And this curved line here… it’s like a path leading somewhere. Together, they form a story.

  Hakuro blinked, absorbing those words. It was as if she were speaking a language he already knew but had never paid attention to before.

  — That’s… beautiful — he murmured, sincere. — How did you learn to do this?

  Lynn smiled, clearly satisfied with the compliment.

  — By practicing a lot. Every stitch needs to be done carefully, as if it’s part of a melody. If you make a mistake, the story can change.

  As they talked, Elfynor continued taking Hakuro’s measurements, adjusting the magical tape around his shoulders, waist, and legs. With each measurement, the tape emitted a faint golden glow, recording the numbers with precision.

  — It looks like we’re almost done — Nyellen commented, watching the process with a smile. — What do you think about having a tunic with unique details, Hakuro?

  He looked at his mother, surprised by the question.

  — Unique details?

  — Yes — Elfynor replied, briefly interrupting his task. — I thought about incorporating symbols that represent your journey. Something that’s exclusively yours.

  Hakuro froze, thoughtful. He wasn’t sure what “your journey” meant, but the idea of something unique intrigued him.

  — Maybe Lynn can help with that — Nyellen suggested, giving the girl an encouraging look. — She has a special talent for creating stories with her stitches.

  Lynn blushed slightly, but nodded with determination.

  — I would love to help — she said, her voice gaining more confidence. — We can come up with something together.

  Hakuro smiled, feeling something new grow within him. It was as if he had found a part of himself that he didn’t fully understand yet.

  — I would like that — he replied, his voice full of conviction.

  As Elfynor finalized the measurements and Nyellen discussed the final details of the robe's delivery, Hakuro and Lynn continued talking, sharing ideas about how the symbols could be incorporated into the design. For Hakuro, this moment was more than just preparations for the baptism. It was the beginning of a connection that promised to be special.

  However, before they could leave the atelier, a royal messenger arrived at the door, out of breath and visibly in a hurry. His golden uniform gleamed in the sunlight, and in his hands, he carried a scroll sealed with the emblem of the Akashy royal family. He bowed deeply to Nyellen, who was near the entrance.

  — Milady Nyellen — said the messenger, his voice firm and formal. — I bring a direct message from His Majesty King Tefyr Akashy.

  Nyellen took a deep breath, worried, as she took the scroll from the messenger’s hands. She carefully broke the seal and unrolled the document, her eyes quickly scanning the written lines.

  — What is it, Mother? — asked Hakuro, noticing the sudden change in the atmosphere.

  Nyellen knelt down to Hakuro’s height, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder.

  — It’s something important, my son. The king has summoned us to the capital with urgency. A royal mage will come to fetch us tomorrow morning to take us directly to the castle.

  Hakuro blinked, surprised.

  — But why? What happened?

  Nyellen hesitated for a moment, then answered:

  — I don’t know the details yet. The king will explain everything when we get there. But it seems to be something serious... and urgent.

  Elfynor, who had observed the entire scene in silence, approached with a gentle smile.

  — It seems we’ll have to adjust the plans for the robe, Lady Nyellen. I can send the garment directly to the capital as soon as it’s ready.

  Nyellen nodded, grateful.

  — Thank you, Master Elfynor. Your understanding is invaluable.

  Meanwhile, Lynn, who had remained quiet during the conversation, looked at Hakuro with curiosity. She seemed to want to say something but hesitated. Finally, she found the courage to speak.

  — And what about the symbols for the robe? — she asked, her soft voice almost a whisper. — Won’t we work on it together anymore?

  Hakuro looked at her, surprised by the concern in her voice. He could see the disappointment in her green eyes, as if she already felt their collaboration was being interrupted.

  — I’m not sure, but I’d like to… — he replied with a reassuring smile. — Actually… — he hesitated for another moment, then continued: — I want you to decide on your own how the design will be. I trust you to create something that will surprise me.

  Lynn’s eyes widened, surprised by the trust placed in her.

  — Are you sure? — she asked timidly. — I don’t want to mess anything up...

  Hakuro shook his head firmly.

  — I’m sure. You have a special gift, Lynn. I know you’ll do something amazing.

  Lynn’s eyes shone with renewed determination.

  — I promise I’ll do my best — she said, her voice now full of conviction.

  Nyellen observed the interaction between the two with a discreet smile. She knew this connection was special, something that could grow over time. But now, there were bigger issues to face.

  — Come, Hakuro — she said, standing up. — We have much to do before we leave for Akarath.

  Hakuro nodded, casting one last glance at Lynn before following Nyellen out of the atelier. As they walked through the vibrant streets of the city, he couldn’t help but think about what awaited him in the capital.

  When they arrived at the Yalareth mansion, the atmosphere was quiet, as always. The sound of their boots echoed through the marble corridors as they crossed the main hall toward the living room. Nafyr was there, comfortably seated in his favorite armchair, holding a thick leather-bound book. Small glowing orbs floated around him, emanating a soft light that illuminated the room. His blue hair shimmered under the magical glow, and his focused expression revealed how absorbed he was in his reading.

  Upon hearing footsteps approaching, he lifted his eyes from the book, immediately noticing Nyellen’s tense expression. His relaxed posture vanished, replaced by cautious curiosity.

  — What happened? — he asked, addressing Nyellen.

  Nyellen sighed, approaching him. Without a word, she handed him the scroll she had already read at the atelier. The royal seal was broken, and the marks of its opening were visible. Nafyr frowned as he saw the document. He lowered his eyes to the scroll, quickly scanning the lines.

  With each sentence read, his expression grew darker. When he finished, he slowly lowered the scroll, his blue eyes reflecting concern and a hint of irritation.

  — An urgent summons to Akarath? — he said, his deep voice filling the room. — And they want Hakuro to go along?

  Nyellen nodded, stepping closer to him.

  — Yes. The letter doesn’t explain the details, but it mentions that it’s of utmost importance. The king ordered us to present ourselves personally in the capital.

  Nafyr pressed his lips together, clearly dissatisfied with the lack of information.

  — This makes no sense. Why would they summon us so urgently without giving any explanation? And why does Hakuro need to be there?

  Nyellen gently placed a hand on Hakuro's shoulder, who observed everything with curiosity.

  — I’m not entirely sure, but the king specifically requested that Hakuro accompany us. As you can read, he says everything will be explained during the audience.

  Nafyr crossed his arms, clearly uneasy with the situation.

  — Very well. If the king has ordered it, we shall do as he wishes. But we need to prepare properly.

  Meanwhile, Arysa entered the room carrying a tray with a steaming teapot and a delicate cup. She walked over to Nafyr with her usual silent grace, serving him the tea before discreetly retreating. However, upon hearing the words about the royal summons, she hesitated, turning to Nyellen with an inquisitive look.

  — Milady... — she began hesitantly. — May I ask... is something wrong?

  Nyellen exchanged a brief glance with Nafyr before responding.

  — We’ve received an urgent summons from the king, Arysa. We’ll depart for Akarath tomorrow at dawn.

  Arysa’s eyes widened slightly, surprised.

  — To the capital? So suddenly?

  — Yes — Nyellen replied, her tone calm but firm. — It’s a direct order from the king. And Hakuro will be coming with us.

  Arysa carefully set the tray down on the nearby table, her thoughts evident in her worried expression.

  — I understand... May I assist with the preparations, milady?

  Nyellen nodded with a gentle smile.

  — Actually, Arysa, you’ll be coming with us as well. Hakuro will need someone trustworthy by his side during this journey. Besides, there may be other tasks for you in the capital.

  Arysa blinked, momentarily surprised, but soon regained her composure and nodded with determination.

  — Of course, milady. I’m at your disposal.

  The next day, at dawn, the mansion’s garden was transformed into a magical meeting point. The sky was clear, but the air vibrated with energy as the royal mage arrived.

  He was young, perhaps only slightly older than Nyellen, but his attire was unmistakable. A long cobalt-blue cloak, embroidered with golden runes that softly glowed, flowed behind him as if it had a life of its own. His pointed hat, adorned with multicolored peacock feathers, gave him a theatrical, almost caricatural air. In his hand, he carried an extravagant staff, made of dark wood and topped with a prismatic gem that pulsed with inner light.

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  — Lady Nyellen, Marquess Nafyr — he said, bowing elegantly, though his eyes were cautious. — I am Master Eldrin, at your service. I’ve come to guide you to Akarath Castle through the portal. This mansion remains as magnificent as ever!

  Nafyr nodded, maintaining his austere posture.

  — Master Eldrin. We appreciate your presence. May we proceed?

  Eldrin smiled, with a brief but confident gesture.

  — Certainly. Please gather within the magic circle so I may activate it.

  Everyone positioned themselves inside the circle, which emitted a soft light that seemed to dance in intricate patterns. Hakuro held Nyellen’s hand firmly, watching the mage with fascination. Arysa stood beside them, while Nafyr remained in front, his imposing posture contrasting with the magical atmosphere around them.

  Eldrin raised his staff, its prismatic gem glowing with increasing intensity. He recited, in a clear and authoritative voice:

  — PORTAL!

  In the next instant, they found themselves in the main hall of Akarath Castle. It was an imposing room, with a high ceiling decorated with golden frescoes and enormous stained-glass windows that filtered sunlight into colored rays. Royal guards in gleaming armor flanked the double doors, and a servant awaited to receive them.

  — Welcome to Akarath Castle — the servant said, bowing deeply. — His Majesty awaits you. Lady Nyellen and Marquess Nafyr, please follow me to the throne room for the private audience. As for the others, feel free to wait here. The royal gardens are just over there if you wish to enjoy the view.

  Nyellen exchanged a brief glance with Nafyr before nodding. She gently crouched down to speak with Hakuro, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder.

  — Hakuro, you and Arysa can wait in the gardens, alright? We shouldn’t take too long.

  Hakuro looked at her curiously but didn’t protest. He knew it was important to obey that order, especially in a place like this. Arysa, for her part, bowed respectfully.

  — Please don’t worry, milady. I will take good care of him — she said, her voice calm and confident.

  With that, Nyellen and Nafyr followed the servant through the double doors, disappearing from sight. Hakuro watched them leave, his purple eyes glowing with thoughts he still couldn’t fully express. Arysa noticed his expression and smiled softly.

  — Come, Hakuro-sama — she said, extending her hand. — The gardens here are beautiful. I’m sure you’ll enjoy them. Besides... — she paused, as if remembering something. — The last time I was in this castle was with Kyra-sama. She brought me here when she was invited for tea with Princess Lysara. Perhaps we’ll be lucky and see her today as well.

  Hakuro’s eyes widened with interest.

  — The princess? — he asked, his childish voice still filled with fascination.

  Arysa nodded, smiling.

  — Yes, the first Princess Lysara. She is very kind and loves spending time in the gardens. If we’re lucky, maybe we’ll run into her.

  Intrigued by the idea, Hakuro took Arysa’s hand without hesitation. Together, they walked toward the large doors leading to the royal gardens. As they passed through them, they were greeted by an explosion of colors and scents. Exotic flowers of all shapes and sizes adorned the carefully arranged flowerbeds, and crystalline fountains scattered droplets of water that sparkled under the sunlight. Small stone paths wound through the lush greenery, inviting visitors to explore every corner.

  Inside, in the grand throne room, King Tafyr Akashy awaited, seated on a golden throne that seemed to glow with its own light. His expression was grave, but there was also a trace of urgency in his eyes. When Nafyr and Nyellen entered the hall, the king dismissed the guards with a quick gesture, leaving only the three of them in the room.

  — Nafyr, old friend — began the king, rising from his throne and walking toward them. His voice was warm, though heavy with concern. — How long has it been since we last saw each other? It feels like just yesterday we fought side by side on the northern borders.

  Nafyr smiled briefly, but his expression soon turned serious again.

  — Your Majesty, it’s good to see you, but I know this summons isn’t by chance. What happened?

  The king sighed, rubbing his temples as if trying to relieve a throbbing pain.

  — You’re right, Nafyr. There’s no time for nostalgia. A serious incident occurred near the capital. A horde of monsters attacked a village on the outskirts, causing destruction and leaving many wounded. I need you to coordinate our military efforts and ensure this threat is contained before it gets closer to the city.

  He paused, looking directly at Nyellen.

  — As for you, Lady Nyellen — continued the king, his voice filled with respect and trust — your skills as a healer are indispensable. The wounded need urgent care, and no one in this kingdom possesses a gift as refined as yours. I know this better than anyone, as I personally witnessed your feats during our campaign in the north.

  Nyellen bowed her head gracefully, though there was a shadow of concern in her eyes.

  — We’ll do what’s necessary, Your Majesty — she said, her voice firm but gentle. — My mission is to alleviate suffering wherever it exists. I am ready to serve.

  The king nodded, clearly relieved to have such reliable allies by his side. He turned his attention to Nafyr, whose posture remained austere but with a trace of determination shining in his blue eyes.

  — Considering the circumstances, I’ve taken the liberty of transferring Hakuro’s baptism to the cathedral in the capital — continued Tafyr, changing the subject with a lighter tone, though still serious. — It was supposed to happen in Yalareth, but given the critical moment and your family being here, I thought it more appropriate to hold the ceremony in Akarath. I hope you understand.

  Nafyr exchanged a brief glance with Nyellen before responding. Both knew the king was acting with prudence and consideration, given recent events.

  — I appreciate the consideration, Akashy — said Nafyr, using the king’s name familiarly, something only the closest dared to do. — We’ll do what’s necessary to honor the call.

  Tafyr shook his head, but his expression remained somber as he continued:

  — There’s something else I need to share with you. I consulted the church records about the recent monster attacks... and discovered something disturbing.

  He paused, as if carefully choosing his words.

  — According to ancient texts, the Archdemon Malakhay awakens every thousand years. He mentally controls the monsters in the dungeons and forms an army to destroy the world. The problem is that... there are no reliable records on how he was defeated in previous instances. Just vague and fragmented accounts, many of them contradictory. Moreover, we still don’t know if the current incidents are truly related to him. According to the records, his last appearance was just over nine hundred years ago, which increases suspicion.

  Nafyr frowned, surprised.

  — Malakhay? I thought those were just legends.

  — So did I — admitted the king, his voice low and heavy. — But now, with these organized attacks, I’m starting to believe the legends might be true. And if that’s the case, we’re facing something much larger than we imagined.

  Nyellen interjected, her voice calm but firm.

  — Your Majesty, is there anything we can do to prepare better?

  The king hesitated for a moment before answering.

  — Continue fulfilling your duties. We need to contain this immediate threat while we investigate more about Malakhay. If the legends are true, we will have to unite with the other nations. But, for now, that is all I know.

  Nafyr and Nyellen exchanged worried glances but did not ask further questions. They knew that, as members of the nobility and trusted allies of the king, their responsibilities were clear.

  — Understood, Akashy — said Nafyr, his voice firm. — We will do our best.

  With that, they were dismissed, but the weight of the king's words echoed in their minds as they returned to fetch Hakuro.

  While Nafyr and Nyellen were busy in the audience with the king, Hakuro and Arysa continued walking through the royal gardens, a magical place that seemed to have stepped out of an enchanted dream. The air was filled with the delicate scent of roses and the tranquil sound of birds singing among the trees, as if the world itself breathed in harmony. Lush flowerbeds spread everywhere, surrounded by intricately trimmed hedges shaped into animals and mythical figures.

  Hakuro walked slowly, observing everything with curious eyes. He had never seen anything as grand and detailed as that garden. Despite his childlike appearance, his thoughts were deep, almost calculating, as he absorbed every detail.

  — It’s very beautiful here, Arysa — he said, amazed, as he stopped to touch a bright purple flower, its petals seeming made of silk dyed by the twilight.

  Arysa smiled, staying close.

  — Yes, Hakuro-sama. After all, this is the royal garden! I heard that Princess Lysara likes to come here to read and meditate.

  As if responding to Arysa's words, a childish voice sounded right behind them, clear and authoritative.

  — Who are you? And why are you in my garden?

  Hakuro and Arysa turned quickly. Before them stood a seven-year-old girl, dressed in a simple yet elegant gown adorned with floral embroidery. Her long, golden hair shone under the sunlight, and her light blue eyes seemed to carry a mix of curiosity and command.

  — Princess Mya... — murmured Arysa, bowing politely, though surprised. — Forgive us. We didn’t know this garden was exclusively yours.

  Princess Mya waved her hand, dismissing the formality with a graceful gesture.

  — It’s alright. I just wanted to know who was here. You don’t look like castle servants.

  Hakuro, though intimidated by the royal presence, couldn’t help but stare at her with fascination. He had never met a princess before, and something about her seemed different from all the other children he had encountered. There was an aura of seriousness in her eyes, as if she carried secrets too ancient for her age.

  — I am Hakuro Yalareth — he finally said, inclining his head slightly, imitating the reverence he saw in those around him. — My parents are in an audience with the king.

  Mya smiled, apparently satisfied with the response.

  — So you’re the son of General Nafyr and Lady Nyellen? I’ve heard of them. Daddy says they are great allies of the kingdom.

  Hakuro nodded, surprised to be recognized.

  — Yes, that’s me. And this is Arysa, my friend.

  Mya looked at Arysa for a moment before turning her attention back to Hakuro.

  — Do you like books? — she asked, pointing to a nearby bench where several volumes were stacked.

  Hakuro hesitated for a moment but soon replied:

  — Yes, very much. But I’m still learning to read better.

  Mya’s eyes lit up with enthusiasm.

  — I like books too! Come, I’ll show you some that I brought today.

  Without waiting for a response, she took Hakuro by the hand and led him to the bench. Arysa, though surprised by the unexpected interaction, discreetly kept her distance, watching the two with a faint smile.

  Sitting side by side, Hakuro and Mya flipped through the books together. The princess patiently explained what each picture meant, and Hakuro listened attentively, occasionally asking questions.

  — This one is about constellations — said Mya, showing a book with illustrations of stars and planets. — My father says understanding the sky is important for ruling.

  Hakuro, intrigued, seemed skeptical.

  — Why?

  Mya shrugged, as if the answer were obvious.

  — Because the stars can guide us when everything else seems lost. Besides, they tell ancient stories… like those of gods and heroes.

  Upon hearing this, Hakuro felt a strange chill run down his spine. The words echoed in his mind, connecting to his own unusual experiences, though he still didn’t know why.

  — Are you also interested in magic? — Hakuro asked, shifting the focus of the conversation.

  Mya’s face lit up.

  — Yes! My blessing comes from the Goddess of Magic, Symeria. I can learn anything quickly and enchant objects. Look at this!

  She picked up a small crystal from the ground near them and held it in her palm. She concentrated for a moment, and the crystal began to project a soft light, drawing colorful patterns on the ground.

  Hakuro watched, awestruck.

  — That’s amazing! How did you do that?

  Mya smiled, proud.

  — It’s a simple enchantment. But I’m still learning. One day, I want to create powerful magical artifacts, like the ones in the ancient books.

  Hakuro felt an instant connection with Mya. Though she was older, they shared a deep interest in the unknown and the mystical.

  After some time, a servant approached, informing the princess that she needed to return to her chambers. Mya reluctantly placed the crystal back.

  — I need to go now, Hakuro. But it was really fun talking with you. Maybe we can meet again?

  Hakuro smiled shyly.

  — I’d like that.

  As Mya walked away, accompanied by the servant, Arysa approached Hakuro.

  — It seems you’ve made a new friend, Hakuro-sama.

  He nodded, still thoughtful.

  — She’s different, Arysa. Like she truly understands important things.

  Arysa smiled, smoothing his hair.

  — Well, she is the third princess. She probably has many responsibilities and deep thoughts for someone so young.

  Hakuro said nothing but continued reflecting on the encounter. Something about Princess Mya awakened a sense of familiarity in him, as if they shared an invisible destiny.

  Not long after, the firm steps of boots echoed along the garden path. Hakuro turned quickly, expecting to see more guards or servants, but was surprised to find his parents, Nafyr and Nyellen, walking toward him.

  — Hakuro — called Nafyr, his voice deep and controlled. — It’s time to return to our quarters. The journey was long, and we need to rest.

  Nyellen smiled gently, extending her hand to her son.

  — Come, my dear.

  Hakuro nodded, though his purple eyes sparkled with curiosity. He knew something important was happening — something his parents hadn’t yet explained. As they walked back to the castle, he finally asked:

  — Father, Mother... what happened during the audience with the king?

  Nafyr hesitated for a moment, exchanging a glance with Nyellen.

  — It’s complicated, Hakuro — Nyellen replied, carefully choosing her words. — A nearby village was attacked by monsters. Your father needs to lead the military efforts to protect the people, and I must help heal the wounded.

  Hakuro felt a pang of frustration, already anticipating the answer to his next question.

  — Can I come with you? I know I’m small, but I can help! I can carry things, or observe, or...

  Nafyr placed a firm hand on his son’s shoulder, interrupting him before he could continue.

  — Hakuro, you have a different role to play here. The baptism is a sacred ceremony, and it’s important that you’re prepared. Besides, the king ordered that you stay in the castle until everything is safe.

  Nyellen knelt to be at Hakuro’s height, holding his hands gently.

  — My dear, I understand your desire to help. But there are times when our strength lies in obeying and trusting in greater plans. You are special, Hakuro, and your presence here now is essential.

  Hakuro lowered his eyes, dissatisfied, but did not protest. He knew his parents were right, but that didn’t diminish his desire to prove he was capable of doing more than just following orders.

  In the days that followed, while Nafyr and Nyellen prepared to leave for the attacked village, Hakuro spent much of his time exploring the castle alongside Princess Mya. She seemed genuinely interested in his company and invited him several times to visit the royal library.

  — You said you like books, right? — Mya asked one morning as she led him through the golden corridors of the castle. — I have some favorites I want to show you especially.

  Hakuro nodded, excited. He had already realized that the castle library would be much larger and richer than anything he had seen in his parents’ mansion. When they entered, he was awestruck by the shelves that went from floor to ceiling, filled with ancient volumes and luxurious bindings.

  Mya led him to a table where several books were stacked.

  — This is my favorite — she said, pointing to a thick volume with a leather cover and symbols drawn in silver. — It talks about enchantments, and my blessing from Symeria helps me understand these concepts better, but I think you’ll like it too.

  Hakuro leafed through the pages with fascination, absorbing every detail. Though still young, his sharp mind allowed him to grasp complex ideas.

  — It’s incredible — he murmured, his eyes shining with enthusiasm. — Is this how you managed to cast that spell with the crystal in the garden?

  Mya smiled proudly.

  — Ah, that? That was a simple enchantment. But it’s not as easy as it looks. I had to practice a lot to control the magical energy properly.

  — So... you shaped the energy inside the crystal to make it glow? — Hakuro asked thoughtfully.

  Mya nodded, impressed by his insight.

  — Exactly! Enchanting is like convincing energy to flow in a new way. It’s not creating something from scratch, but rather redirecting what already exists.

  Hakuro nodded slowly, processing her words.

  — So... it’s like everything in the world already has hidden potential, and we just need to find the right way to awaken it?

  Mya looked at him with admiration.

  — Exactly! You catch on quickly. Most people take years to grasp that idea.

  The two spent hours discussing the books, sharing knowledge and asking questions. For Hakuro, it was as if he had found a friend who truly understood his thirst for knowledge.

  Meanwhile, behind the scenes, preparations for the baptism advanced, and Hakuro's outfit, commissioned from the renowned craftsman Elfynor, arrived at the castle on the sixth day after their arrival. The master craftsman had promised swift delivery, ensuring it was brought directly by the Merchants' Guild.

  When they dressed him in it, early in the afternoon of the following day, Hakuro couldn’t help but admire the beauty and intricacy of the attire.

  — It’s beautiful — said Nyellen, delicately adjusting the sleeves. — Perfect for the occasion.

  The fabric shimmered in a pearly tone, adorned with magical symbols embroidered in silver that sparkled at the faintest touch of light. The main highlight was a golden dragon that seemed to come alive, meticulously crafted by Lynn to surprise Hakuro, as they had agreed. It was a unique piece, custom-made to reflect the importance of the event.

  Hakuro froze upon noticing the dragon on the chest of the attire. His purple eyes gleamed with intensity as he observed the intricate details: the meticulously embroidered scales, the wings that seemed ready to unfold, and the amethyst eyes that echoed something deeply familiar within him.

  — Mother... — he murmured, touching the dragon with reverence. — She really did it.

  Nyellen smiled, noticing the emotion in his voice.

  — Yes, my dear. It was Lynn who embroidered that dragon.

  Hakuro nodded slowly, his fingers still tracing the outlines of the dragon. He clearly remembered the visit to Elfynor’s workshop, when he had spoken with Lynn. The shy girl, with her blonde hair and bright green eyes, had promised to surprise him with something unique. And now, here was the result: a dragon that seemed to capture his very essence.

  — I asked her to surprise me — Hakuro said, his voice low but full of gratitude. — But I never imagined it would be something like this.

  Nyellen exchanged a meaningful glance with Arysa, who had been silently observing the scene. Then, she knelt down to look into her son’s eyes.

  — I knew Lynn had something special in mind when you two arranged this at the workshop — Nyellen said with a gentle smile. — But even so, I’m impressed. She truly put her heart into it.

  Hakuro frowned slightly, curious.

  — You knew?

  Nyellen nodded.

  — Yes, my dear. I was there when you spoke with Lynn, remember? It seems she understood exactly what you wanted.

  Hakuro felt warmth growing in his chest. He hadn’t expected his mother to have paid such close attention to that conversation at the workshop. To him, it had been just a simple moment of connection with Lynn, but now he realized that Nyellen had also seen something special in that interaction.

  Nyellen placed a delicate hand on her son’s shoulder.

  — Lynn is an incredible little girl, and her work here proves it. This dragon... it feels like a part of you.

  Hakuro remained silent for a moment, absorbing his mother’s words. Then, he smiled—a genuine, rare smile for someone so young.

  — Yes... She is. And this dragon... it feels... like a part of me.

  — It’s time to go, my dear, — Nyellen said, her face glowing with a gentle smile.

  With that, Hakuro took her hand, and they headed to the castle entrance, where a carriage awaited them.

  The journey to the cathedral was quiet but not uncomfortable. Hakuro watched the bustling streets of the capital through the carriage windows, his mind filled with questions and curiosity.

  — Mother… — Hakuro said, breaking the silence. — What’s going to happen during the baptism?

  Nyellen exchanged a glance with Nafyr before answering.

  — It’s a sacred ritual, my dear. It’s a moment when the gods may bless you, guiding your steps and filling your heart with wisdom. It’s a very special occasion.

  Hakuro seemed unusually curious.

  — And what if... what if the gods speak to me?

  Nafyr chuckled softly, though there was a trace of concern in his voice.

  — That would be extremely unusual, Hakuro. But if it happens, remember to listen carefully and keep their words in your heart.

  Hakuro nodded, though he still felt a weight in his chest. He wasn’t sure what to expect, but something inside him told him the baptism would be more than just a simple ritual.

  When they arrived at the cathedral, Hakuro was awestruck by its grandeur. The twin towers gleamed under the setting sun, and colorful stained-glass windows adorned the towering stone walls. Royal guards stood watch at the entrance, and the soft sound of chants echoed in the air, as if the gods themselves were whispering blessings.

  Inside the cathedral, the atmosphere was even more breathtaking. Tall pillars supported a ceiling painted with celestial scenes, and statues of the eight gods shone in pure gold. At the center of the altar stood a simple pedestal made of a single piece of white marble, upon which rested an ancient book with faintly gilded pages.

  Hakuro felt small in the face of the place’s magnificence. He held tightly to Nyellen’s hand as they walked toward the altar, where a priest awaited them. The man wore a long tunic embroidered with silver threads, his serene face radiating calm and reverence.

  The priest raised his hands in a solemn gesture.

  — Benevolent Gods, on this day we present the young Hakuro Yalareth, who has just turned five, for your adoration! — he proclaimed, his clear and resonant voice filling the vast hall of the cathedral.

  Hakuro walked to the center of the altar, where he knelt as instructed. His mind continued to brim with conflicting thoughts. He knew this was an important moment, but he also felt that something greater was happening—something beyond a mere rite of passage. As if some kind of energy was swirling around him.

  The priest opened the ancient book and began reciting the words of an old, melodic prayer. With each phrase, the air around them seemed to vibrate with magical energy. A soft light emanated from the pages of the book, enveloping Hakuro in a comforting warmth.

  Suddenly, the atmosphere shifted. Hakuro felt as though he was being watched by something far greater than himself. A powerful presence filled the space, and he immediately knew the gods were there—invisible to others’ eyes but palpable to him.

  A deep, ethereal voice echoed in Hakuro’s mind:

  — Welcome, Hakuro Yalareth... or should we call you Onekay?

  Hakuro’s eyes widened in disbelief.

  — How do you know my true name? — he asked hesitantly, his voice echoing in the infinite space.

  Before him, majestic figures began to take shape. They were the eight gods, each radiating a unique energy. Hakuro felt his heart race as he tried to comprehend what was happening.

  The first figure to approach was Aendor, the Creator. He had the appearance of a fox-man, with golden fur that shimmered like the sun. His gentle eyes seemed to carry centuries of wisdom.

  — You’ve already traveled a long way, Hakuro — Aendor said, his voice calm and welcoming. — This is only the beginning of a new journey.

  Another figure approached slowly. It was Nerethys, the Goddess of the Cycle of Life and Death. She was a majestic cat-woman, with hair as black as the deepest night and golden eyes that sparkled like distant stars. Her pointed ears and elegant tail moved with feline grace as she walked.

  — You have much to learn, Hakuro — she said, her melodious and firm voice tinged with mystery. — But trust in your inner strength.

  The third figure, the goddess Loraelwen, approached with a gentle smile. She was an Archfey, with delicate elven features and translucent wings that shimmered like crystals in the sunlight. Her demeanor was warm, like that of a protective mother.

  — We will bestow our blessings upon you now — she said, her voice soft and reassuring. — May they illuminate your path.

  Before Hakuro could ask any questions, the other gods began to manifest, each with their own energy and personality.

  Kaelgor, the God of Illusion, appeared as a jovial human, with flowing blonde hair and bright blue eyes. He wore extravagant clothing, like a traveling artist, and his presence was light and carefree.

  — I, Kaelgor, bless you with creativity! May your imagination never falter! — he exclaimed, making a dramatic gesture with his hands.

  Velkar, the God of Commerce, approached with a sly smile. He was human, dressed in lavish clothes and gleaming jewels. His eyes sparkled with intelligence and curiosity.

  — I shall grant my blessing as well! I am Velkar, the Merchant, and I want to see trade flourish with your inventions! — he said cheerfully, as if already envisioning Hakuro’s future impact on the world.

  Symeria, the Goddess of Magic, appeared as a mysterious elf, with black hair that seemed to absorb the light around her. Her eyes were deep and dark, like wells of hidden knowledge.

  — May magic always guide and inspire you, Hakuro — she said, her voice soft yet charged with power.

  Elaris, the Goddess of War, emerged with an intimidating aura. She was a dragonkin, with gleaming scales and fiery eyes. However, her tone was lively and full of enthusiasm.

  — I can’t wait to see you grow strong and buff! — she said with a wide smile. — Train hard, because I have great expectations for you!

  Finally, Durnan, the God of Technology, approached with heavy steps. He was a robust dwarf, with a long beard and eyes bright with curiosity. His hands seemed covered in soot, as if he had just stepped out of a forge.

  — My blessing will aid in your creations! — Durnan said proudly. — Use it wisely!

  The gods began to fade, their forms dissipating like mist. Before they vanished completely, Aendor addressed Hakuro one last time:

  — Remember, Hakuro... the world is full of wonders. Explore it with curiosity and an open heart.

  In the next moment, Hakuro found himself back at the cathedral altar. He blinked, momentarily confused, as he tried to process everything that had happened. The priest continued the ritual as if nothing unusual had occurred, but Nyellen and Nafyr’s eyes were fixed on him, filled with concern and curiosity.

  Hakuro remained silent, feeling the weight of the gods’ words echoing in his mind. He knew something extraordinary had happened, but he also realized he shouldn’t share it at that moment, especially in the presence of the priest.

  The priest concluded the ritual with a solemn gesture, declaring:

  — May the gods always protect you, young Hakuro Yalareth!

  Nafyr quickly stood and approached Hakuro, while Nyellen, rising as swiftly as Nafyr, thanked the priest for his services.

  — Let’s go, my son — Nafyr said, his voice unusually tense.

  Hakuro simply nodded, holding his father’s hand as they walked toward the carriage. He could feel the confused glances of the priest and the curious stares of the guards behind him, but he remained silent, staring at the ground as if lost in thought.

  Inside the carriage, Hakuro stayed quiet, still processing the encounter with the gods. His parents exchanged worried glances, but neither dared to ask directly what had happened. The atmosphere was heavy, charged with unspoken tension.

  Hakuro gazed out the window, lost in his own thoughts. He could still feel the energy of the blessings pulsing within him, like a comforting warmth enveloping him. The gods’ words echoed in his mind, but he couldn’t fully comprehend their meaning.

  “Why are they so nervous?” he thought, watching the landscape rush by. “Did they also see the gods speaking to me during the baptism?”

  But for now, he decided to keep his reflections to himself. He knew he needed to try to understand on his own what had happened.

  Nafyr remained silent, staring fixedly at the horizon as if lost in dark thoughts. Nyellen, on the other hand, observed Hakuro with a worried expression, but also with a glimmer of pride in her eyes. She knew something extraordinary had occurred during the baptism, but she wasn’t sure what it meant or what the consequences might be—or even if she should mention it.

  — We’ve arrived — Nafyr finally said, his deep voice cutting through the silence. He stepped out of the carriage first, helping Nyellen and Hakuro down, then headed directly to their quarters.

  In the antechamber of their quarters, Arysa waited anxiously, though her expression held a hint of curiosity. She noticed that something seemed different about the family’s demeanor—Nafyr was more serious than usual, Nyellen seemed lost in thought, and Hakuro remained restless and silent.

  — Arysa — Nafyr called, his authoritative voice leaving no room for questions. — Please take Hakuro and put him to bed.

  Arysa nodded quickly, approaching Hakuro with a gentle smile. She extended her hand to him, and he hesitated briefly before accepting. Nyellen knelt to her son’s level, touching his cheek tenderly.

  — We’ll talk in the morning, my dear — she said, her voice as soft as a spring breeze. — Rest now. You’ve had a long day.

  Hakuro nodded, though a whirlwind of questions swirled inside him. He allowed Arysa to guide him to the bedroom, where she carefully helped him change into his nightclothes and tucked him into the cozy bed.

  — Good night, Hakuro-sama — Arysa whispered, extinguishing the mana crystal that lit the room as she sat in the armchair near the window, gazing at the starry night.

  In the other room, Nafyr and Nyellen discussed in tense whispers.

  — We can’t ignore what happened today — Nafyr said, his voice low but urgent. — Whatever that light was... it wasn’t normal.

  Nyellen sighed, crossing her arms as she paced back and forth.

  — I know, Nafyr. But it’s too soon to draw conclusions. We need to be cautious. If it’s something related to the gods, we need to understand better before acting.

  — Cautious? — Nafyr raised an eyebrow, incredulous. — You saw it too, Nyellen. The golden light... surrounding Hakuro as if it were a divine mark. The priest didn’t notice, but both of us saw it.

  Nyellen stopped pacing, looking firmly at her husband.

  — Yes, I saw it. But that doesn’t prove anything beyond the fact that something extraordinary happened. Until we know more, we should avoid drawing attention to Hakuro. He already attracts enough just by being our son.

  Nafyr nodded slowly, though he still seemed dissatisfied.

  — Very well. We’ll start looking for trustworthy instructors tomorrow. I’ll contact Master Yanthorn as soon as possible! And we’ll ask Hakuro to show us his status, so we’ll have a clearer idea of what’s going on.

  Outside, the nighttime breeze blew softly against the windows, carrying with it the fresh scent of spring. In the sky, the stars shone brightly, as if whispering ancient secrets to anyone willing to listen.

  In the bedroom, Hakuro lay awake, his eyes faintly glowing in the dark. He could still feel that new energy flowing within him, like a distant echo of the gods. His mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, analyzing every detail of the day. The gods’ words, his parents’ reactions, the residual warmth of the blessings—all seemed connected by invisible threads he couldn’t yet fully understand.

  “What happened to me?” he thought, his mind torn between curiosity and apprehension. “Why are my parents so worried? How do the gods know my true name? Why didn’t they explain how they know?”

  As his eyes finally closed, surrendering to sleep, a strange sensation coursed through his body. It was as if the gods themselves were watching, patiently waiting for the right moment to reveal the true purpose of his existence.

  However, Hakuro didn’t know that the next day would bring important new revelations. The golden light that had enveloped Hakuro during the baptism was only the beginning of something much greater.