Chapter Twenty.

"Would you like some company, ma'am?" Ena asked, noting the boredom etched on Sira's face. Ena wore a simple light blue dress with sleeves that reached her elbows. She gently squeezed Sira's hand, offering reassurance.

Sira chuckled dryly, shaking her head, clearly not in a cheerful mood.

"Oh, Ena. I wanted to help, but I upset Zev, and I'm not sure if Koa is angry too. Since the ceremony began, the atmosphere has been suffocating, and everything seems to be going wrong," Sira lamented, her voice trailing off and her brows creased in worry as she tried to push away the unease she felt.

Ena nodded sympathetically, saying, "Forgive me, ma'am. I truly thought i could make you feel better."

"Well," She offered, "I can sit here and keep you company, If you'd like." Ena took a seat next to Sira, who sighed heavily and rested her head on her shoulder, and the two sat in comforting silence.

Meanwhile, Koa approached Zev and Twila, who were engrossed in their own conversation. Koa glanced between them and the spot where Sira and Ena were sitting, his expression grave. He leaned in, interrupting their talk with a hushed tone, "Hey." Zev and Twila immediately shifted their attention to Koa, who continued, adjusting his glasses, "We have a major problem with Arane."

Twila nodded, her gaze flickering towards Sira. "Zev, look at what you've done. Sira's upset."

Zev ruffled his hair and sighed, admitting, "I guess I shouldn't have been so harsh."

Koa offered a solution, "You should apologize to her, even though you were right. But she just wanted to help."

Zev shrugged, "Maybe...but it doesn't change the fact that she caused us a terrible problem."

Koa turned away, his frustration evident as he grumbled, "Zevran, you've caused us terrible problems too, you can't be judgemental." he adjusted his glasses then walked away.

Zev felt something sir in his gut, a twinge of guilt. "Your brother's right, you know?" Twila chimed in. Zev let out a groan, followed by a reluctant chuckle. "Yeah, i can be an ass sometimes," he admitted.

Twila rolled her eyes and chuckled. "We were well aware from the start that this journey wouldn't be a walk in the park. There will be even tougher challenges, and you'll make your fair share of mistakes too." Zev sighed, a heavy weight on his chest.

"Koa and I, we'll have our moments as well," Zev mused, his thoughts drifting. "Everyone's bound to clash and get angry with each other. But our real strength lies in facing these tests together." Twila continued, playfully ruffling his hair.

A small, albeit sincere, smile crept onto Zev's face as he nodded in agreement, "Yeah..."

"Arane may be out of our control, but we can still make things right with our friend," Twila said with a reassuring smile, gently rubbing his arm. She then turned her gaze towards where Koa had wandered off.

The ceremony was almost concluding, and the crowd lingered in anticipation of the impending snowfall. Prince Theodore spotted Prince Tiago alone in a corner, leaning against the wall with a drink in hand. A smirk played on Theodore's lips as he approached his rival. "Are you having a good time, Tiago?" Theodore inquired, standing beside him.

In his characteristic monotone, Tiago replied, "Go away, Theodore." Theodore chuckled, teasing, "You're a beacon of purity; try being pleasant for once. Our rivalry won't be any fun with you being such a sourpuss."

Tiago remained unfazed, taking another sip from his glass and setting it down with a thud. He turned to Theodore, his gaze icy and firm. "I don't need to be friendly to someone I don't like."

The change in Theodore's demeanor did not escape Tiago's notice. He smirked and walked away.

Zev approached Sira, who was seated with Koa and Ena. He lightly tapped Ena, asking, "Mind if I take your place here?" Ena promptly stood and bowed, saying, "Of course, young master. Please, have a seat."

Zev smiled gratefully and occupied the vacant spot beside Sira. Koa, with a small smile, patted Zev's shoulder before departing.

Sira gazed at him for a few moments, her expression softening. "I'm sorry," she whispered softly.

Zev shrugged and replied, "It's okay. It has happened, and we'll be okay." He cleared his throat and continued, "Im sorry as well, for my initial reaction. Twi managed to knock some sense into me, and I understand I can be a bit of a jerk sometimes."

Sira chuckled and quipped, "Yeah, that's an understatement."

Zev grinned, saying, "Well, then I suppose I can be a fucking douchebag"

Sira laughed heartily and Zev added, "Anyhow, I know I hurt your feelings. I'm sorry."

Sira waved off his apology and let out a sigh. "It's fine. I'm just relieved you're not angry anymore, you douche." She gave him a cheeky grin, and Zev responded by pulling her into a warm hug. She initially stiffened but then hugged him back tightly. Zev could tell she was truly relieved. "Thank you. Now, get the fuck out of my hair," she playfully pushed him away.

As Koa and Twila conversed with the royal figures, Henson suddenly appeared before them. "Mr. Alvarez, the Imperial Majesties summon you and Madame for a brief meeting," he said, bowing slightly. Twila and Koa exchanged glances before following him. Quietly, Henson guided them behind the thrones where the rulers sat, but the seats were vacant.

Before them was a wall, and Henson's eyes emitted an orange glow as a small flame flickered to life on his finger. He searched the wall, looking for something. After a few moments, he found a hidden compartment with a keyhole. Henson inserted the key, and it swung open, revealing a large dark room. The flame on his finger faded, and he turned to Koa and Twila, bowing. "Please, go in."

They complied, entering the room. It was pitch black until lamps began to light up one by one, revealing the rulers sitting on the thrones, all fixated on the siblings. Koa and Twila stepped forward and bowed deeply, saying in unison, "Your Imperial Majesties." Empress Avena spoke first, "Rise. Sit," gesturing to the chairs in front of the thrones.

Quietly, Henson exited the room, softly closing the door behind him. The siblings took their seats facing the rulers. Emperor Bayle wore a gentle smile, while Empress Avena appeared composed as ever. Emperor Luke and Empress Lorelai seemed disinterested.

Bayle extended his arms to the siblings in a welcoming gesture. "My children, I'm sure you both are confused as to why you were both summoned." They nodded in silence. Empress Lorelai interjected, "This meeting is another trial, asking Koa to take his father's place as our historian, and you, Twila, are here as a witness."

Koa struggled to hide his disgust, clenching his fists, but Twila placed her palm on his clenched fist, offering comfort. Koa relaxed slightly. Emperor Bayle continued, "I know we've tried this before, but there's no harm in trying again, is there?" he asked Koa, who shook his head. "No, Your Imperial Majesty, I believe there is not."

Bayle's smirk widened as he inquired, "Last time, you didn't give me a reason why you refused. Today, we'd like to know the reasons why you declined."

Koa frowned but replied firmly, "My father was an intelligent man. If he wanted me to take over from him, he would've asked me to. But he never did." He paused before adding, "Besides, with all due respect, Your Imperial Majesties, I'm already a historian, the Alvarez's historian." He held Bayle's gaze with confidence.

Bayle's smirk widened further as he turned to Twila, "What do you think, Madame?" Twila sighed and spoke, "Forgive me, Your Imperial Majesty, but I'm only here as a witness. Everything else is my brother's to decide." Emperor Luke, Empress Lorelai, and Empress Avena nodded in approval.

Emperor Bayle's demeanor changed; he snarled, his amber eyes intense, then chuckled. "Well said, Madame," he praised Twila. Turning to Koa, he added, "Very well then. You may leave. But... you have great potential to become the greatest historian in Elamenta, greater than your father." Bayle leaned back and stared into Koa's eyes, his determination evident. "I will not stop until you've reached your full potential."

Koa saw the resolve in Bayle's eyes and frowned. Bayle smirked and said, "Now, please leave." Koa and Twila got up, bowed their heads, and said, "Yes, Your Imperial Majesties." They exited the room without looking back.

The rulers watched them leave, and Emperor Luke cautioned, "Do not waste our time with this boy, Bayle. Do not waste our time." Bayle smiled and leaned forward, placing his chin in his hands. "Oh, we're wasting time already, are we? We'll see," he smirked then chuckled softly.

*****

Henson led Koa and Twila back to the ceremony, where everyone eagerly gazed upward. They joined Sira, Zev, and Ena. "Where were you guys?" Sira asked with concern. Koa sighed. "We'll talk about that later. Right now, let's handle Arane," he replied. Everyone agreed, and Twila looked up at the darkened sky, with the moon casting a soft glow on the falling snow. "It's time."

The dome slowly opened, revealing a mesmerizing night sky full of countless stars. A gentle breeze carried the forest's scent, and a purple snowflake landed on Zev's nose, making him scrunch it up. Sira couldn't help but chuckle.

Tiny purple snowflakes began to fall, enchanting everyone as they danced in the air and landed on their heads, robes, and shoulders. Some drifted toward the lakes and created a soothing crunching sound underfoot.

Sira spotted Arane across the dome, and they locked eyes. Arane signaled they had little time and disappeared into the crowd. Sira nudged Koa, "Arane's waiting for us." She pointed to the far side of the dome. Koa gave a tight smile. "Let's head to Red Shore."

The group agreed and said their goodbyes to the other dignitaries before leaving. Sira and Zev chatted about the diverse people around them. Stepping outside, they felt a wave of relief as the cold air and snow helped clear their minds. Taking a different path from their arrival, they made their way to Red Shore.

Red Shore, only five minutes from White Shore, was the smallest beach on Flagus Island. Its red sands welcomed them, and the clear water reflected countless stars. Red bunnies with white ears and tails, and golden-pupiled red swans added to the enchanting scene.

As they reached the shoreline, Koa and Zev led the way, with Sira, Twila, and Ena following. Twila's eyes sparkled as she spotted the bunnies. "Look! They're so cute!" she exclaimed. Koa and Zev shouted simultaneously, "Be careful!" Sira and Ena chuckled as they caught up. Twila giggled as the bunnies scampered away. "Don't worry," she called back, "I'm good!" The two brothers smiled, happy to see her having fun.

"This place would be a lot more enjoyable without us being here for her," Sira muttered, her gaze directed across the shore where Arane stood, cloaked in black. As they approached, she removed her hood and greeted them cheerfully with a warm "Hi!" She bowed her head gracefully, saying, "Thank you for coming."

Arane's eyes briefly met with Sira and Koa. "I will explain everything once we are away from here. Please, just take me with you," she urged.

Sira's expression darkened, her pupils emitting a reddish glow. "You'd better. If you endanger my family, I won't hesitate to take your life."

Arane smiled, understanding the threat. "I know you are angry, but I also know you do not truly mean it."

Sira narrowed her eyes, her suspicion evident, but Arane continued, "If you did, Illume would not be so calm." With that, she unveiled her cloak, revealing Illume perched on her shoulder. Sira, Ena, and Twila gasped in awe, while Koa removed his glasses and Zev stared in astonishment.

"A phoenix?" Koa breathed in disbelief. "As in the companion to the Supreme Being of the Sun, Elios?" His excitement was palpable.

Arane smirked and replied, "Like I said, I will explain everything. But first, you must take me with you." Her expression radiated innocence.

Ena interrupted the moment, clearing her throat to gain everyone's attention. "I think we might be running out of time, Your Majesty," she said, her gaze fixed behind them. Arane's eyes followed, and a small gasp escaped her lips as she spotted her mother approaching. She was alone.

"Mummy," Arane whispered. Sira and the others turned to see Empress Margaux. "Shit!" Zev cursed.

Arane stepped forward, determination in her voice. "I will not go back, mummy. You cannot make me."

Margaux's gaze softened as she met her daughter's eyes. "I am not here to take you back, my dear. I have come to see my baby one more time. You deserve your freedom, and I am proud of you for not giving up."

Tears streamed down Arane's face, and she hugged her mother tightly, sobbing into her dress. "Oh, mummy. Thank you."

Margaux's voice trembled as she implored, "Please, be safe. I beg you."

Arane pulled away and wiped her tears with her sleeve. "I will come back for you someday. I promise."

Margaux turned to Sira and the rest of the group, who all bowed deeply. Margaux studied them for a moment before speaking. "I am not sure what to say."

Twila, with a gentle smile, reassured her, "That's quite alright, Your Majesty."

Margaux rubbed her arm, her eyes welled with emotion, and she confessed, "Arane has chosen a path that will cause great problems for you in the future, and I cannot stop it. Please protect my child. She is the only hope I have." She smiled, caressing Arane's cheek gently.

The empress brought out two old scrolls and held them close to her chest with both hands. "These contain everything you need to connect deeply with Illume. Your sisters had hidden them from you. Now, they are yours, where they belong. Take care of these scrolls, fulfill your destiny, and, most importantly, be happy."

Margaux closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and passed the scrolls to Arane. She accepted them with trembling hands, her eyes filled with gratitude and tears.

Margaux glanced at the group one more time. "The guests are still merrymaking, but not for long. You should leave Flagus while the shore is empty."

With a final look at Arane, she whispered, "Goodbye." They all bowed one last time as they watched her depart. Arane donned her cloak, and with a nod from Twila, they left for White Shore. They soon realized that the empress had spoken the truth when they found the beach deserted, the rift still open.

Arane's face lit up as they entered the rift, leaving Flagus Island behind.

******

The room fell into a heavy silence as the newly appointed soldiers, ranging from the Gemini Twins to Prince Tiago, sat opposite their parents. The tension in the air was palpable, and the quiet hung around like a shroud. With each passing moment, the tension only thickened. Finally, Prince Tiago broke the stillness with a hushed tone, "Is anyone going to say something? Why are we here?" he inquired, shattering the silence.

Emperor Luke cleared his throat and began, "Your new roles come with a singular mission."

Arla couldn't help but express her disapproval, crossing her arms, and declaring, "Well, that's boring." Her bold statement sent shockwaves through the room, leaving everyone wide-eyed. She nonchalantly shrugged, "What? It's the truth."

Empress Avena chimed in, "There is a Rieti girl alive in Elamenta and we don't know who she is or where she is." The revelation left all, except Theodore, stunned. Arla exchanged glances with Isla, and Fae with Theodore. Tiago, wearing a sly smile, leaned back and remarked, "So, you've tried and failed and now you want us to clean up your mess?" His tone dripped with mockery.

Emperor Bayle, seemingly amused by Tiago's remark, responded to his question, "I like you. And yes, it's your task to deal with this matter," he affirmed. Fae frowned and asked, "What if we fail?" Emperor Bayle's smirk widened, but his demeanor turned serious. "Failure isn't acceptable for the future rulers of Elamenta. You won't fail, and you'll spare no effort to resolve this, no matter how long it takes." His words were uncompromising as he locked eyes with each of them.

Fae nodded, her arms folded, glancing at her silent mother. Tiago rolled his eyes, having suspected from the start that the ceremony carried deeper implications. He couldn't care less about this situation; why bother with such a pointless mess? On the contrary, Theodore was resolute in his determination to locate the mysterious girl, eager to uncover the reasons behind the rulers' agitation.

Recalling his father's reaction upon receiving the news from Kipp and Arlo, Theodore frowned and confidently assured, "We'll take care of this problem. You can count on us." His words elicited a satisfied smirk from Emperor Luke, while everyone, except Tiago, nodded in agreement.

"Very well. we look forward to witnessing your success," Luke commented, before turning his gaze to Tiago and added, "You may depart now." With that, the children rose, bowed their heads in a final show of respect, and exited the room.