Nighttime.
The soft glow of moonlight falls gently on a towering black castle nestled deep within the forest. Inside, in a high chamber, a woman's voice breaks the stillness.
Mother (softly):
"Earlier today... I sensed the seal had suddenly weakened. I managed to repair it, but... I can't help but wonder—how did it get damaged so suddenly? It was perfectly stable this morning."
She stands by the tall window, silver moonlight casting soft shadows across her facec gazes out into the moonlit forest. Her long white hair shimmers in the light. Behind her, his father steps forward, wrapping his arms gently around her waist.
Father (calmly):
"Don't worry too much. Maybe the seal is just getting old... worn over time."
She rests her hands on her belly, clearly expecting.
Mother:
"Maybe... but I still worry. About him."
Father:
"So how was it... did you give him the good new?"
Mother (hesitating):
"Not yet. I was so focused on the seal, I forgot. I will—"
He gently interrupts, smiling.
Father:
"No need. let me tell him instead. Actually... I've been wanting to spar."
---
Morning.
Sunlight filters through tall stained-glass windows as Lyriana, dressed in a crisp maid uniform, walks down a long corridor. She stops at a door and knocks lightly before entering.
Draven is still in bed, having just woken. He yawns and rubs his eyes with one hand.
Draven (grumbling):
"What the hell do you want?"
Lyriana (bowing slightly):
"Pardon me, young master. His Highness requests your presence in the training yard."
Draven's eyes snap open. He bolts upright.
Draven (irritated):
"What?! What the hell does the old man want now? I thought I already finished training. Go tell him I'm not interested."
Lyriana (quietly, eyes averted):
"Forgive me, young master, but… I'm afraid I cannot do that."
She thinks to herself: Is he really trying to get me killed...?
Draven (scowling):
"Why not? Aren't you supposed to be my personal maid? Just do as I say."