Callis looked at them in utter surprise, her brows furrowing in confusion.
"You don’t see it? All of you?" she asked the knights, seeking confirmation.
All knights shook their heads in unison, denying any sight of the said barrier.
"None of you saw it?" Kiev asked again in disbelief.
Once more, they shook their heads in denial.
Callis couldn’t help but question their honesty.
"You’re not making this up, right?" she asked, wondering if a different answer would co out.
Rafe spoke up, "I can assure you that all of us are telling the truth. The only magic we witnessed was from both of you."
Even Queen Elda voiced her agreent, saying, "I, too, failed to perceive any golden barrier as you said. What I saw was exactly as described by Mr Amares."
"This is indeed perplexing. I had assud the Grand Duke is a magic practitioner like us," said Kiev, rubbing his chin in wonder.
"What are you talking about? Since when did Kyren have the ability to use magic?" asked Anna, confused.
Eric, wanting to clarify the situation, added, "Please let explain. His Highness the Grand Duke is not a magic practitioner, as he does not possess the ability to use magic. However, he does have the gift of sensing its usage and those who can use it within a short range. This is common knowledge within the knighthood. However, it’s kind of surprising that he didn’t detect yours at the mansion."
"That’s because we are the derians. Hiding our magic abilities is our speciality. It will take a strong magic practitioner to detect our mana line," said Kiev proudly.
"Oh, my! This is truly surprising!" Sylvia exclaid, her eyes widening in astonishnt.
Anna, too, was taken aback by the revelation of Kyren’s unique skill. Kyren had never ntioned this to her, and she now found herself reflecting on various instances where his reactions had seed peculiar.
One such occasion was during her proclamation as his concubine. At the ti, he had ntioned sensing a strange feeling; now, everything fell into place.
Kiev expressed his surprise, saying, "I have never heard of anyone who lacks the ability to use magic but can detect it. This is the first ti. There must be an explanation for this discrepancy."
"But the fact that you used a magic attack in the duel is quite disturbing. It seems rather unfair," Noah interjected, feeling a sense of unease.
Despite his respect for the derians, he couldn’t agree with the derian Prince’s actions during the fight.
Kiev firmly defended his actions, "It was intended only to paralyse him, not to deliver a fatal blow. We’re not the enemy of Cassians, and we’re forbidden from hurting you unless you bring harm to us. After all, there were no rules stipulating that I couldn’t use my abilities against him."
"Now that explains why you didn’t kill any of us when you had the opportunity to do so," Eric remarked, comprehending Kiev’s previous act during their fight.
"You’re quite observant yourself," the derian Prince smiled as he replied, acknowledging the knight’s perceptiveness.
Anna, unable to contain her emotions, shouted in anger, "You used magic against my husband? How could you! Although Kyren has great strength, he cannot use any magic! This is so unfair!"
Noah stepped in, supporting the princess’s emotions, and said, "That’s precisely what I said, my lady." He then turned to Rafe and asked," As the diator of the duel, what is your opinion on this matter, Mr Amares?"
Rafe spoke with a calm and asured tone, seeking to provide clarity and perspective.
"I understand that you may perceive this as biased," he began, conveying impartiality. "However, it is important to note that both parties involved in the duel had agreed to fight using their respective abilities. The rules were established and agreed upon beforehand."
He continued, emphasising the importance of upholding the agreent. "In this case, His Highness Prince Kiev acted by the rules. While it may seem unfair due to their difference in abilities, it is essential to rember that the terms were set by mutual consent. Furthermore, based on my observations of the duel, it beca apparent that the grand duke possesses exceptional physical strength, and his skill should not be disregarded or overshadowed by the presence of magic. Each combatant brings their own set of abilities to the fight, creating a dynamic and multifaceted contest. Therefore, there shouldn’t be any argunt regarding this."
"Rafael is right. They both have their talents, and we shouldn’t question the agreed terms," Eric agreed with the healer.
A dissatisfied look crossed Anna’s face.
"But magic is a formidable force! How could it be compared to physical strength?" she countered.
"That’s not entirely true! Magic is derived from the enchantnt and accumulated mana within an individual’s soul, granting them the power to wield its abilities. While mana can harness the world’s natural forces to accomplish the magic’s purpose, it is important to note that each magical practice has limitations. For instance, I was able to heal my brother, but regrettably, I cannot nd my fractured shoulder using my own magic," Callis explained.
Curious for further clarification, Rafe inquired, "So, you cannot heal yourself?"
The derian Princess gently shook her head.
"It is impossible. No matter how advanced one’s magical abilities may be, utilising one’s own magic to heal oneself is beyond reach. Only another skilled magic practitioner in healing can do it to the others. There are inherent restrictions and limits that differ across various kinds of magic."
She continued, seeking to dispel misconceptions, "It is crucial to understand that the perceived power of magic is often exaggerated due to a lack of comprehensive understanding. People assu it to be unyielding and all-encompassing, but in reality, it operates within its boundaries and intricacies."
Callis’s insightful explanation left the crowd with a profound understanding of magic. Lord Anson, in particular, displayed a keen interest, his face reflecting his fascination with the derians.
"Forgive for asking this, but how is Her Imperial Majesty? Since she left, we haven’t heard any news from her."
Lord Anson’s eagerness to know prompted him to inquire about her.
Kiev’s voice carried a tinge of sadness as he responded, "I’m afraid Her Imperial Majesty passed away a long ti ago due to old age."
A sombre atmosphere settled over the crowd as the news sank in.
"What about her child? I heard that Her Imperial Majesty was heavily pregnant when she left," asked Queen Elda with hopeful eyes.
Kiev acknowledged her question and confird, "Her Imperial Majesty did have a daughter." The revelation sparked excitent among the listeners as the possibility of a direct heir to the Ro’an Emperor was affird.
Lord Anson eagerly sought more information about the emperor’s daughter. However, the derian Prince’s expression turned grave as he hesitated before responding, "Forgive , but I cannot disclose much information about her for safety reasons. I reside on a different island, making it rare for to have direct contact with her. Her Imperial Majesty chose to live in isolation with her child after leaving the continent as the death of her husband and the fall of the empire had left her devastated."
The weight of Kiev’s words settled upon the gathering, leaving them with a sense of both anticipation and uncertainty. The existence of a potential direct heir held imnse significance, but the limited knowledge about the emperor’s daughter and her circumstances left them with many unanswered questions.
"Thank you for the update, Prince Kiev. At least we know now that the Ro’an direct descendant is still around. That is already relieving news," she said, continuing, "I believe it may take so ti for His Majesty and the grand duke to discuss the matter with the admiral, given its urgency. So, there’s no need to wait at the arena. Would you all care to join ?" Queen Elda proposed to them.
Kiev hesitated before responding, his gaze fixed on his sister, who displayed subtle tremors in her hands—a clear indication of the strain caused by utilising her mana to heal him monts ago.
The derian Prince found himself perplexed, unable to comprehend why he had suddenly experienced a burning sensation that he had never encountered before.
He pondered whether the golden barrier created by the Grand Duke had anything to do with it, but he remained confident that it had only reflected his lightning magic, which he had deftly avoided.
Confusion gripped Kiev’s thoughts as he struggled to make sense of the situation. The burning sensation seed unrelated to the duel, leaving him searching for answers. He questioned whether any overlooked factors or hidden aspects were at play, attempting to unravel the mystery behind the unexpected event.
With the duel temporarily postponed, Kiev saw an opportunity to find a place for himself and his sister to take a break and discuss the new findings.
He respectfully addressed Queen Elda, explaining their situation and making a request, "Since the duel is currently postponed, I don’t see the need to wait here for the mont like Your Majesty said," Kiev began. "I appreciate the offer made, but I believe, more than anything, we would like to rest while we wait for His Majesty and the grand duke’s return. If it doesn’t trouble you that much, would you provide us with a proper place to rejuvenate?"
Understanding the request, the queen swiftly assured them, "I understand. That shouldn’t be a problem at all. I will arrange it accordingly."
She imdiately gestured to her attendants, indicating the need for quick action to fulfil the request.
Rafe’s keen eyes noticed the tremor in Callis’s hands, prompting him to express concern and inquire about her well-being.
"Are you all right?" he asked with genuine worry. "Do you require dical attention?"
Callis, attempting to downplay her condition, responded with reassurance, "I’ll be fine. It’s nothing significant."
Rafe nodded, acknowledging her response. However, his curiosity got the better of him, and he couldn’t resist delving deeper into her previous actions.
"I understand. Given your brother’s remarkable abilities, I suppose my worries for you are sowhat assuaged. But it does make wonder, why didn’t you seek his help earlier? Furthermore, what led you to keep your true identity concealed until now?" the healer inquired as he directed his gaze towards both Kiev and Callis.
Callis shared a brief exchange of glances with her brother, and the derian Prince took the lead to answer.
"We chose to keep our identities and abilities hidden to avoid drawing unnecessary attention initially. You saw how your grand duke reacted when he saw our magic just now," he explained earnestly.
"Yes... But you could’ve simply provided a disguised na to maintain your secret if you wished it so much. Yet you still expose yourself by revealing your surna and magic," said Noah.
"I couldn’t conceal my surna because it represents my pride," Kiev emphasised with conviction. "It signifies my royal derian heritage, and betraying that pride through deceit is sothing I cannot fathom. Furthermore, I thought that none of you Cassians would notice it. Her Imperial Majesty no longer used the ’Naver’ surna after marrying His Imperial Majesty the Emperor and coming to the continent. As for the magic..." Kiev’s gaze shifted towards Anna, his voice taking on a firm tone, "I am determined to succeed in winning her by utilising my abilities within the boundaries set by the rules of the duel."
Noah narrowed his gaze at the derian Prince, fully aware of the growing respect Kiev was earning among the Cassians, including the king and queen. However, his loyalty and bond with Kyren remained steadfast, unaffected by this newfound admiration.
Before he could voice his concerns further, Queen Elda, sensing the need for action, intervened and proposed leaving the arena.
"I understand that there are many questions and answers that need to be addressed," the queen said, "However, I believe we should depart from here for now. A servant will guide Prince Kiev and Princess Callis to designated rooms."
The derian Prince nodded. Turning his attention to his escorts, Elis and Arl, standing nearby, Kiev called them forward. As they approached, Kiev entrusted the maid with the task of escorting his sister and providing her with the necessary care.
"Miss Canton, please accompany my sister and attend to her needs. She is still recovering and requires attention," Kiev requested, his voice filled with gratitude and trust.
Elis responded promptly, acknowledging the responsibility bestowed upon her. She bowed respectfully and replied, "Yes, Your Highness."
Kiev then turned to Arl.
"Please wait near my room. I may require your assistance later on," he instructed.
The teenager, in awe of Kiev’s true identity and the newfound respect it brought, bowed respectfully and replied, "Yes, Your Highness. I will be at your disposal."
Arl felt a surge of admiration and, admittedly, intimidation toward the derian Prince. He also couldn’t help but respect and be loyal to him. The revelation of Kiev’s true identity only further heightened these feelings, leaving him eager to fulfil his duties to the best of his abilities.
"Anna, would you and your companions co with ?" Queen Elda addressed the princess directly, her tone gentle yet firm. "I believe it would be best for all of us to take a montary break."
Anna responded respectfully, "Yes, Your Majesty. We will follow your lead."
However, Eric interjected, reminding the queen of the grand duke’s orders.
"Your Majesty, His Highness the Grand Duke has instructed us to accompany Lady Raychard for the ti being," he relayed.
Understanding the situation, Queen Elda nodded in acknowledgent.
"In that case, you may all co with us," she replied, accommodating the knights’ task.
Not wanting to be left behind, Rafe also expressed his intention to join.
"If you don’t mind, I’ll join you too," he interjected.
The queen’s response was warm, her smile genuine.
"Please do, Mr Amares. You’re most welco."
Feeling disappointed at not having the opportunity to talk further with the derians, Lord Anson requested Kiev and Callis, saying, "I understand that both Your Highnesses wish to rest now. Perhaps, would it be possible to have a conversation at a later ti? I genuinely want to learn more about you and your purpose here."
Maintaining his composed deanour, Kiev responded, "We are here solely to retrieve my betrothed. That is our primary objective. However, since you have made a humble request, we can arrange a brief eting before we depart after the duel concludes."
Noah, though internally sceptical of the derian Prince’s confident statent, chose to withhold his opinions out of respect for the queen, who greatly appreciated Kiev and Callis.
With a shared understanding, the group embarked on a temporary respite from the royal arena, seeking solace from the current issues that weighed on their minds in the hope of alleviating their worries and concerns.
Unbeknownst to them, another obstacle lood on the horizon, ready to test their resolve. Indeed, destiny had more surprises, waiting to unfold its intricate plan.
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