Witch's Daughter And The Devil's Son

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.

Upon delivering their report to Arlan, Oriana and Rafal were ready to departed. Despite Rafal's reluctance, Oriana insisted on overseeing his treatment.

Drayce patted Rafal's shoulder as if praising him for protecting others, but Drayce's intention was different. Rafal was affected by black magic attack and by making a physical contact with him through patting, Drayce absorbed that black magic from Rafal's body. Arlan noticed it and silently thanked his friend.

After addressing crucial matters with Arlan, Drayce made his way back to the guest mansion, where Yorian and Slayer awaited his return. Seren had also joined them in Drayce's study this time, taking a seat beside her husband on the plush couch while Slayer and Yorian occupied positions opposite them.

"Wizards attacked today, attempting to abduct Seren," Drayce began, his arm protectively encircling his delicate wife's shoulders, pulling her closer. He paid no mind to the presence of Yorian and Slayer.

Seren, typically reserved about public displays of intimacy, didn't resist Drayce's gesture. She understood that his concern for her safety outweighed any reservations about being affectionate in front of others. She leaned into him, accepting his reassurance.

"Yes, that's what occurred," Yorian confirmed, "and judging by their formidable power, it suggests a more sinister force is pulling the strings."

"Zaria Lynx. Who else could it be?" Drayce asserted. "The King of Thevailes may be aiding her."

"I share the same suspicion," Yorian concurred, "I have not sensed her presence around yet that means she is concealing her presence really well if she is really here."

Drayce nodded, "I tried it as well, but could not sense it. We can only get to know if we manage to infiltrate the guest mansions of Thevailes."

"It might take a dangerous turn as Zaria will sure catch it. She is way more cunning and careful," Yorian commented.

"But we might have to take a chance. It's about Seren's safety. We have to take measures before they plan another attack," Drayce replied.

"Then we will need someone who can enter the guest mansion of Thevailes and would not raise any suspicions. Also, smart enough to get information about Zaria."

"We will plan something soon. I cannot let that witch to have another chance to harm my wife," the pair of red eyes turned resolute, "If we fail to execute proper plan, I will personally enter the guest mansion of Thevailes and get that witch out despite whatever consequences we have to face. My wife comes first and the matter of this continent later."

"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.