Drayce materialized in Arlan's study just as the Prince's concern for Oriana reached a critical point. Arlan, teetering on the edge of abandoning his study to pursue Oriana, was saved from taking that precipitous step by Drayce's timely arrival.
With a measured tone, Drayce proceeded to narrate the events at the temple to Arlan. However, he strategically omitted certain details about Oriana, specifically her pivotal role in safeguarding against the wizard's threat. Drayce painted a reassuring picture, assuring Arlan that Oriana was unharmed and under the vigilant protection of Yorian and Slayer.
Arlan, in turn, updated Drayce on the developments in the conference following his departure. Regrettably, the outcome was unfavorable in their battle against the smuggling of banned herbs. The alleged culprit, the King of Thevailes, managed to evade any connection to the illicit activities. The destruction of evidence and the support from the Othinian King proved to be formidable obstacles.
Mid-conversation, Rafal and Oriana made an entrance into the guest mansion. As soon as they learned of Arlan's presence, they hastened towards the drawing room. Rafal bore visible injuries, a testament to the struggles they faced, while Oriana, though appearing somewhat disheveled and paler, seemed otherwise unharmed.
The unexpected sight of the King of Megaris left both the knight and the attendant taken aback, prompting them to bow in respect.
Arlan's scrutinizing gaze swept over Oriana, as if determined not to miss any detail, marking a moment of intense scrutiny.
Drayce offered him a meaningful gaze as the two had silent talk. 'I told you she is fine.'
Arlan gazed back. 'Will you trust my words when it's about Seren and won't check on her?'
'So admit that she is as important as you the way Seren is important to me?'
Arlan frowned, 'I don't like it if someone else hurts my possession.'
Drayce scoffed inwardly, 'You will make me sick with those same words.'
"Your Highness, we have returned from our city trip," Rafal's words drew their attention.
"I can only agree to it," Yorian said, turning his attention to Seren. "Your Majesty, for your safety, it would be prudent to remain within the guest mansion unless accompanied by King Drayce."
"I agree," Seren responded, a hint of guilt flickering in her eyes. "I don't wish to jeopardize the lives of others along with my own. Today was dangerous enough, and if not for Oriana's use of her powers, it could have been far worse."
Drayce, offering comfort, gently rubbed her arm with his warm palm and turned back to Yorian. "Seren told me that Oriana possess divine power?"
"Yes, King Drayce," Yorian's countenance grew more serious as he continued, "Her true nature is not as it appears. We must delve deeper into her powers. Her divine powers seem to have been overshadowed by the attribute of darkness to not be seen easily," Yorian added, emphasizing the need for understanding. "She appeared utterly shocked as well.
We must clarify everything about her and help her comprehend."
Drayce turned his gaze to Slayer. "Summon Oriana here."
"Of course, Your Majesty," Slayer affirmed, departing on the errand.
Yorian, maintaining eye contact with Drayce, continued, "Today, I witnessed Slayer's innate abilities firsthand, confirming my suspicions about him."
Drayce's expression darkened. "How did he react?"
"He seems uninterested in exploring his true identity. During the skirmish, he fought like any other knight," Yorian replied.
Drayce sighed, a weight of concern evident on his face. "We must shield him from such incidents. His existence must remain concealed. As for those wizards, did they manage to escape?"
"Yes, they fled, having witnessed their failed attempts against Slayer. I understand your efforts to keep him hidden, but I had no alternative at that moment except to get the help from his extraordinary abilities."
"One day, he will have to acknowledge his identity. This incident, we can consider it as a start of it," Drayce added with a tinge of resignation.