CHAPTER THIRTY EIGHT

You think you can fight us with your swords? The voice dripped with disdain, each word laced with a mocking, malevolent tone that sent shivers down the spines of all who heard it. As if in response, the shadows seemed to pulse and writhe with a newfound intensity, as if animated by a malevolent will of their own.

Laughter followed—the eerie, mocking laughter of unseen entities lurking within the darkness. It echoed off the vaulted ceilings, filling the once grand hall with a haunting cacophony that drowned out all other sounds. The laughter seemed to come from all directions at once, disorienting those trapped within its grasp.

Some among the gathered tried to muster courage, brandishing swords and torches in feeble attempts to ward off the encroaching shadows. But their efforts were met with only more laughter, mocking their defiance with a cruel amusement that seemed to feed on their fear.

Theirs might not work, but mine will came prince Caspers voice as he let out a fiery fire with the help of princess Astrid who murmured an incantation as she gave prince Casper her energy. The shadows seem to have been temporary distracted not expecting the prince's action. The other elementalists seeing what the prince and princesses were doing also joined their powers, driving the shadows to one place, creating a barrier between the shadows and the people.

Father the chamber shouted Casper.

The king quickly went to a wall and laid his palm on it while murmuring an incantation and immediately a door was opened.

Everyone in here quickly, the king said as everyone started going through the door.

Everyone successfully went through and before the shadows could pass through the door disappeared and the walls closed up with everyone safely in the chamber.

Cleon, what is this place? i asked as we entered the chamber like everyone else and watched the door vanish.

This chamber was conceived and fortified by the first king Alaric, generations ago. Its purpose was clear and noble: to safeguard our people in times of dire need.

The first king understood the importance of preparedness and resilience, Cleon continued, his voice carrying a hint of admiration for the monarch of old. He envisioned a sanctuary where our citizens could seek refuge during times of invasion or upheaval, a place where the strength of our kingdom could endure even in the face of adversity.

Is everyone alright? asked king Aelfdene as he went around checking everyone and asking around to make sure everyone entered safely.

The chamber hall, expansive and yet intimate in its atmosphere, was designed with both defense and hospitality in mind. The vaulted ceiling soared high above, adorned with ornate arches and adorned with symbols of unity and protection.

Upon entering, one was greeted by the sight of a long, polished table crafted from the finest oak. Surrounding the table, high-backed chairs stood sentinel, their cushions adorned with intricate embroidery depicting the kingdom's crest.

Along the walls, strategically placed alcoves housed racks of weapons—gleaming swords with jeweled pommels, sturdy shields bearing the emblem of Aegalia, and suits of armor meticulously crafted to protect the kingdom's defenders. Each piece stood ready for use, a testament to the kingdom's preparedness and resilience in times of adversity.

The king waved his hand and the torches came alive as everyone looked for a place to sitdown with servants helping their masters.

The royal families from the five kingdoms all gathered in a dias overlooking the hall. With council members and elite surrounding them as they all spoke at once.

Everyone please settle down, said the king. Thank the spirits we are all safe thanks to prince Caspers thinking and the help of our children. This chamber will offer us solace as we think of a way out of this predicament.

I watched as the king continued conversing with the other kings and nobles after his speech. I looked around me to find everyone sitted and in company of their families i saw my parents with their respective families, hugging and consoling one another.

Cleon, what is going on? i asked turning to face him.

I really can't say for sure Evelinde, however you are safe and protected, i assure you.

Elowen, do you think these shadows have anything to do with what you said earlier? asked the king suddenly, as everyone's attention was focused on the king once again.

My king, i believe so. They've been a drastic shift in the energy flow and as we speak right now the darkness is sucking our energy feeding on our magic.

Father, he is right. I can feel myself getting weaker said Cedric.

Suddenly, a chilling voice reverberated from the shadows, seeming to emanate from the very walls themselves. Do you think you can escape us by hiding? it taunted, its tone dripping with malice. Sooner or later, we will get to you. Time is what we have.

The courtiers exchanged uneasy glances, their expressions tense with apprehension. King Aelfdene's brow furrowed in concern as he demanded, Who are you?

You are not worthy of knowing my identity, came the chilling reply, causing a collective shiver to run through the room. The atmosphere grew colder, as if a tangible fear had settled among them.

What is it that you seek? questioned the king of Thanbra.

Laughter echoed mockingly through the chamber, sending a chill down the spines of those present. What we seek, the voice responded cryptically, is that which you hold dear.