Infinite Paths: The Raging Phoenix C.304: Refusal

Upon entering the headquarters, Branden, Lorene, and Orcis noticed that an atmosphere of both surprise and tension hung in the air. The people inside displayed mixed expressions, a blend of relief at seeing their boss safe and deep concern over the situation. There was more in the air, though.

Branden, while exchanging greetings and offering reassurances to many of the occupants, made his way toward Karla to discuss the unfolding events. However, an unexpected obstacle emerged in their path: a group of individuals clad in the distinctive royal guard armor, each of them brandishing a spear. This unforeseen development left Branden and his companions thoroughly surprised.

"Lord Branden, His Majesty demands your presence in the castle immediately," one of the royal guards said. "Lord Orcis and Lady Lorene should also come along as well to answer some questions."

As Branden observed the presence of these royal guards, he couldn't help but connect the dots. It became evident to him that Revan, the commander of the royal guard, might have become involved in Joanis's schemes.

The signs had been there for a while and were becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. Despite holding the prestigious position of royal guard commander, Revan's influence and standing in the kingdom had gradually waned thanks to the king's blade achievements.

Revan's rapid ascent had occurred following the fall of the Lonard family, a once-prominent military family. Their demise had created a power vacuum that he skillfully filled, propelling him to the forefront of the kingdom's leadership.

However, recent events and changes in the political landscape hinted at a decline in Revan's power and influence, which raised questions about whether his loyalty had shifted towards Joanis Valera, the lord they were pursuing.

"Certainly," Branden said and then turned around to lead the path toward the castle. "Karla came with us until midway."

Given the complex situation, Branden understood that directly disobeying the king or attempting to stall without raising suspicion would be unwise. He recognized the delicate balance of power and the impossibility of openly defying a royal decree.

With his quick-thinking mind, Branden devised an alternative strategy. He decided to call Karla. Involving her in the unfolding situation could prove crucial, as her loyalty and cooperation might play a pivotal role in navigating the intricate web of alliances that may involve Joanis Valera, Revan, and the royal guards.

Branden acknowledged the importance of securing as many allies as possible when facing a potential threat. By reaching out to Karla, he aimed to assess her loyalty and gain a valuable asset in these uncertain times.

Karla readily nodded and then followed the group toward the exit of the building. For a short time, Branden wondered what he should tell her… he couldn't reveal much since the guards were behind them, and he didn't know if Karla would bail now.

"Tell me what happened while I was away," Branden said when he noticed something. freewёbnoνel.com

"... Six days ago, we received a royal decree that we have to stop our activities while the royal guard conducts an investigation," Karla replied. "I don't know the details as to why, but the king's blade is being investigated."

Branden felt like clicking his tongue since it meant that he couldn't ask her to do anything, and thanks to these words, he became fully aware that she was as much in the dark as he was considering the situation in the capital.

"Esmeralda contacted you?" Branden asked.

"No, sir," Karla replied. "Her royal highness didn't make an appearance in the last few days."

"... I see. You are dismissed then," Branden said.

Karla nodded and readily left the group while they headed toward the castle. The walk would be around twenty minutes; it wasn't much time, but Rain had to make the most of it. He followed the group while flying above them and keeping an eye on the area. Luckily, the sky was cloudy, and the light of the city didn't reach that high. he listened to everything and followed Karla.

While in the headquarters, Karla just ignored everyone and kept working like usual, organizing documents. Everyone around was also completely silent and acting like nothing had happened.

"... What do you guys think of this?" Rain asked.

"You can't even understand the situation in your own organization?" Seadir asked.

"It isn't mine. I am just an ordinary member that doesn't contact the others often," Rain shrugged.

"... Even considering the situation, their behavior seems odd," Seadir said, and his friends nodded.

"What about you?" Rain asked while looking at Rhodes.

"... why would you even trust my words in the first place?" Rhodes asked.

"It is just for argument's sake," Rain replied.

"... Everyone is on guard… like they can't trust each other," Rhodes relied while looking away. "As if some members had joined the enemy's side, and they are aware of it."

"That seems pretty accurate coming from you, no offense," Rain said.

Rhodes' assessment seemed accurate; some members of the organization had switched sides and joined the enemy for various reasons. This betrayal had made Rain quite wary, and he found it challenging to trust anyone fully.

Even among his closest friends, Rain recognized potential vulnerabilities that the enemies could exploit. Asche and Terra, who had worked with him at the orphanage, had their own connections and weaknesses there. Realizing that his most trusted allies might also be compromised left Rain feeling uneasy. Jori, Reca, and Liss also grew up there, after all.

Despite this discomfort, Rain had taken precautions for a situation in which his sisters might have to fend for themselves. He understood that in this complex and perilous world, it was crucial to be prepared for any possibility, even if it meant ensuring the safety of his little sisters.

While thinking about what he should do, Rain decided to follow Branden and the others as well. At that point in time, he was fully aware that the castle could become a death trap for him, but for that kind of situation, he had also prepared something else…