Darian walked through the corridor, his steps echoing softly against the polished stone floor. His mind swirled with questions.
-Why did the king summon me so suddenly?
His sharp eyes flickered over the soldiers lining the corridor, standing rigid in their gleaming silver armor. They barely moved, their discipline so perfect they might as well have been statues.
He exhaled, muttering under his breath, "so lifeless… Do they even breathe under those helmets?"
No response. Not that he expected one.
After what felt like an endless walk, Darian finally reached the massive doors leading to the courtroom. Two guards stood at attention on either side, gripping halberds with unwavering focus. The air felt heavier here.
One of the guards shifted slightly and spoke in a firm tone, "Sir Darian, His Majesty awaits."
Darian gave a slight nod, rolling his shoulders. "Yeah, yeah… Let's get this over with."
He pushed the door open, stepping inside.
As Darian stepped inside, the grand courtroom unfolded before him, bathed in the warm glow of chandeliers hanging high above. Massive stone pillars lined the hall, their surfaces etched with intricate carvings of past kings and great battles. The walls were adorned with deep crimson banners, each bearing the golden crest of Ashthorn, a symbol of royal authority.
A long red carpet led to the golden throne, where King Alfred sat in quiet authority. The air carried the faint scent of incense, adding to the solemnity. Nobles and officials stood on either side, their gazes ranging from curious to indifferent.
Guards flanked the throne, their polished armor gleaming. The very walls seemed to bear witness to centuries of fate-shaping decisions.
Darian knelt on one knee, lowering his head in respect. "It's an honor to be in His Majesty's presence," he said firmly.
King Alfred gave a slight nod, his gaze steady. "Raise your head."
Only then did Darian lift his eyes, taking in the king's imposing figure.
King Alfred was a man of imposing stature, his presence alone commanding respect. His graying hair was neatly combed back, and his sharp, piercing eyes held the weight of experience and authority. A well-groomed beard framed his strong jawline, giving him a regal, almost intimidating air.
Despite his age, there was no sign of frailty—only the quiet strength of a king who had ruled for decades.
"Darian, you have changed a lot," King Alfred said with a neutral expression, though his eyes betrayed his surprise.
Around the hall, nobles exchanged whispers, some with widened eyes and others with mouths slightly agape, unable to hide their shock.
"...I did some training"
Darian didn't know how to respond to king's question,so he could said what came to his mind.
Alfred look at darian face with narrowed eyes.
He looks a little–no ,but completely different.
Ignoring these,he decided to convey what he called him here for.
"Darian, there are two reasons I have called you here," King Alfred began. "First, a scroll from the academy has arrived, notifying the end of your rejuvenation period. You are to return and resume your studies."
Hearing the king's words, Darian's expression darkened.
"Dammit, I completely forgot about the academy." He cursed inwardly, frustration creeping in.
His life had been going smoothly these past few days, almost too smoothly. Looks like the gods gave me a moment of peace just to throw me back into the storm.
"The second reason..."
"It seems the king won't stop until he pushes me into despair," Darian muttered dejectedly.
But Alfred wasn't done. "The second reason concerns your engagement."
Darian blinked. "Engagement?"
"Yes," Alfred confirmed. "It is a decision made by the council."
At those words, Darian felt his vision darken slightly, his head spinning. Just what kind of mess is this now?