Back in the great villa's lounge, a magic mirror suddenly lit up. Kaylen, seated in Regalia's castle, looked up from his papers as he heard it activate.
Hello, Kaylen, I said, appearing in the mirror's reflection.
Jonady? he answered, adjusting his white coat. You look busy.
Someone has to take care of things while our dear monarch enjoys some rest, he said with a small cough. So, why are you calling? Aren't you supposed to be relaxing? Don't tell me you want to come back.
I explained the troubling situation regarding the sea attacks.
I see. That does sound serious. Should I alert the princess?
No. I want Raelia to stay focused on planning the wedding.
Understood. Then we'll take care of this.
Nilyna and Sylena had stepped out.
Do you think the Imnisfir Archipelago is behind all this? asked Kaylen.
I don't know. I'll have to go to Sakuraggio Island myself.
Later, I contacted Governor Zu, who arrived with several soldiers.
Majesty, forgive me, he said.
Why?
I wasn't fully informed about the sea attacks. I received a few reports, but was told the situation was under control. I'm ashamed, as governor of Kyosval.
I placed my hand on his shoulder.
Acknowledging failure is a mark of good leadership. Now we must find a solution.
Understood.
On the table, a large map showed the region of Ednia.
Here is the map, said one of the soldiers. This cross marks Sakuraggio Island. It has 115 inhabitants.
Zu, were you able to contact anyone from the island?
No, Majesty. It's unreachable by sea. We've tried repeatedly to contact the locals, but no one responds.
I see.
I thought: What could possibly be happening on that island?
We should expect to face marine creatures, said Nilyna.
Alright. We'll set sail. I've already given Kaylen detailed instructions. Now, for this expedition, I want the following aboard our ships:
Fluorescent-colored vests, in case of tsunami, to stay visible at sea.
Life jackets.
Ropes and safety harnesses.
Dried food and energy bars.
Zu, order the evacuation of homes near the ports.
Understood.
Why evacuate? asked Nilyna.
We won't be safe if there's a tsunami or an attack. The ships are ready. We're leaving.
They all replied in unison: Yes.
Thus, preparations began for the expedition to Sakuraggio Island, with heightened caution toward the marine dangers and the mysteries surrounding this isolated land.