After the chaos and destruction that had unfolded, the battlefield slowly became quiet. The monsters were gone. The seal that had trapped everyone had vanished. The injured were being treated, and the frightened citizens were slowly being evacuated or calmed down. There was still a heavy feeling in the air, a lingering tension and shock from what had happened, but King Arthur knew he couldn't let that emotion take over his people.
After the chaos had settled and calm returned to the kingdom, King Arthur stood before his people, his heart full of emotion. He took a deep breath, cleared his throat, and faced the crowd that was still recovering from the shock. With a firm and clear voice, he addressed the citizens of the kingdom.
"We will not let a mere distraction ruin our joy," the King declared confidently, his voice echoing through the square. "In fact, I have a reason to celebrate even more now."
There was a moment of silence among the people, but the King's strong presence and calm tone reassured them. He hadn't mentioned the attackers, nor the stolen Crimson Jewel. He knew that the people were already frightened enough. Telling them more would only lower their spirits. So, instead, he smiled and announced that the Carnival would not only continue, but be grander than before, celebrating not just the festival, but also the bravery of the adventurers and, most importantly, the return of his long-lost son.
"The attackers were no match for the brave adventurers," he said, "and they fled in fear of our strength. We owe this peace to them and to my son, Adrian."
The people cheered, not fully aware of the truth but happy to hear their King's hopeful words. They trusted him and believed in the strength of their kingdom. The drums of the carnival beat once again, the music played louder than before, and the celebration resumed.
But behind the scenes, things were different.
---
Adrian, who had been severely injured during his fight with Lilith and the mysterious cloaked figure, was still unconscious. He had been taken to the best medical center in the capital, where the kingdom's finest healers and magic users worked tirelessly to treat him. It took almost half a day to stabilize him.
Throughout this time, many waited patiently for news about his condition. The members of the Rising Heroes and the Grand Party were all gathered, hoping for the best.
Sera sat quietly, her hands clasped together, praying constantly for Adrian's recovery. She didn't say much, but everyone could feel the worry in her heart. Fizzle, on the other hand, refused to leave Adrian's side. She hadn't eaten, drunk, or rested. She sat by his bed, holding his hand gently, watching his face closely for any sign that he would wake up. Her devotion and care for him were clear to everyone.
Sylra, who had medical training, had joined the healers. She helped them using her own magic, working on Adrian's wounds and ensuring he was properly treated. The rest of the Rising Heroes and members of the Grand Party waited quietly outside the room, their eyes filled with concern and hope.
Finally, after hours of hard work and silence, Adrian opened his eyes. His body ached, and his arm was still broken, wrapped tightly in bandages, but his consciousness had returned. Everyone sighed in relief. The tension that had built up slowly disappeared. There were smiles, tears, and even a few cheers.
As soon as word spread, King Arthur, the Queen, the three princes, and the two princesses rushed into the room to see him. The King was the first to reach Adrian, and without thinking, he held him tightly. He couldn't hide his emotions anymore. He had just gotten his son back after so many years, and seeing him awake, alive, and breathing brought tears to his eyes. The Queen tried to calm him down, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder, reminding him to stay strong for Adrian.
Soon after, the Rising Heroes and the Grand Party were allowed inside the room. They gathered around Adrian's bed, asking how he was feeling and whether he was in pain. Adrian smiled weakly, assuring everyone that he would be fine. He was grateful to see all of them safe.
Then, Junith turned to the King. Her voice was serious as she brought up the matter that had been on everyone's mind.
"Your Majesty, what about the Crimson Jewel? One of the attackers took it," she said.
King Arthur's expression changed. He looked thoughtful and a bit troubled.
"I don't know much about the Crimson Jewel myself," the King admitted. "It has been passed down in our royal family, always given to the firstborn princess. It is a treasured heirloom, but beyond that… I do not know its true purpose."
He paused for a moment before continuing.
"What I do know is this: there are supposed to be seven jewels like this one. The Crimson Jewel is just one among them. The locations of the other six are unknown. If you wish to learn more, I suggest you begin at the Mantra Library. Perhaps the answers are hidden there."
Everyone grew quiet as they listened carefully.
Zora then spoke, his voice low. "I've heard that the seven jewels contain immense magical power… but no one knows how to unlock that power."
All eyes turned to Zora, surprised by his knowledge.
"How do you know that?" someone asked.
Zora froze for a second, realizing he had spoken too much. He quickly tried to cover up his slip.
"It was just a story an elder in my village told me when I was young," he said with a chuckle.
Junith, the three princes, and even King Arthur took mental note of Zora's words. They didn't push him for more, but it was clear that they would keep an eye on him.
King Arthur then turned to the Grand Party and said, "Once the Carnival is over, I want you to investigate the Crimson Jewel, the other six jewels, and the corrupted core we found in the Dungeon of Karcanis. These matters are important. But until then… enjoy the Carnival."
He smiled wide, trying to ease the atmosphere again. The Grand Party and Rising Heroes nodded and began to leave the room, some talking quietly among themselves.
Now, only the royal family and Adrian remained in the room.
King Arthur turned to his son and gently asked, "Adrian, would you like to stay here in the capital?"
Adrian looked at him, a small but confident smile forming on his lips. Without hesitation, he replied, "No, Your Majesty. I want to stay with the Rising Heroes, at least for now. I want to grow with them, explore the world, and become a great adventurer. I can't do that if I stay here."
King Arthur chuckled, not surprised by his answer. He had already expected it. Adrian's spirit reminded him so much of Vanessa, Adrian's mother.
"I understand," the King said. "But promise me one thing—stay safe. And remember, no matter where you are, you have a family here. A home to return to."
Adrian nodded, his smile growing a little wider. "I promise."
And with that, the room filled with warmth and quiet joy. A new chapter was waiting for Adrian and his friends, full of mystery, adventure, and untold stories. But for now, the Carnival lights sparkled, music filled the air, and peace had returned, if only for a short while.