The morning sun cast a pale light over the ruined lands of leaf dukedom as Sion arrived through his portal. Once a flourishing territory under his care, the estate now bore deep scars from the recent conflict. Burned fields, shattered homes, and broken walls greeted him. The aftermath of war lay silent, echoing with memories of chaos. Sion walked through the wreckage solemnly, examining the extent of the damage. His gaze was hard, his heart heavier.
After ensuring the necessary repair orders were issued, he activated his Wrap Gate magic once more and transported himself to Presia, the duchy of his father. A somber air enveloped the estate — black flags fluttered and mourners gathered. A mourning ceremony had been arranged in memory of Luthor, the loyal head butler who had been brutally slain by members of the Demonic Cult.
Sion stood quietly amidst the mourners, his eyes closed in silent tribute. After some time, he excused himself and made his way to John's office, only to find it empty. A steward informed him that John was recovering from injuries — stabbed in the back during an assassination attempt.
Taking charge, Sion summoned the newly appointed head butler, Jerin, and gave him firm instructions.
"Complete all pending duties swiftly. We can't afford more delays."
He then moved toward the guest wing, where his mother Mary was spending time with Janet, his younger sister. Laughter spilled from the room. As Sion entered, Janet looked up and smiled brightly, rushing into his arms.
"Big brother! Are you really an angel? You healed my arm so quickly!" she chirped.
Sion chuckled and hugged her back. "An angel? No, I'm the devil in disguise," he joked, tousling her hair.
Mary smiled, then asked gently, "How is Katherine?"
"She's managing well," Sion replied. "There's resistance, but it'll settle. She's strong."
Mary nodded. "She needs you, Sion. Stand by her — and Sara too. She's doing everything she can to help the victims from Leaf Dukedom — healing the wounded, setting up shelter camps."
"I know, Mother. I'll visit them both soon," he assured her.
Meanwhile, unrest simmered. Three rebellious nobles had sent a formal letter to the royal palace, outright rejecting Katherine's rule and refusing to offer their support. Their names echoed across the court:
Duke Mervyn of Ashrake
Count Halren of Valtor
Marquis Drayke of Elmere
Each held significant power and influence over their territories. Their open defiance posed a real threat to the fragile unity of the kingdom.
Later, in the war chamber, Raphael stood with arms folded, brows furrowed in thought.
"We need to begin our investigation into the Demonic Cults," he said to Sion. "But I can't shake the feeling… They might be linked to the Demonic Angels somehow."
Sion's gaze darkened. "Then we hunt them — both shadows and wings."