Chapter 35: MORGAN VS ELIRA
Seven Days Ago — The Kingdom of Velkar
The crimson banners of Velkar fluttered under the setting sun. King Malrik sat upon his obsidian throne, eyes narrowing at the man kneeling before him—a seasoned mage with a jagged scar down his cheek and a voice sharp as steel.
"My Lord," the man began, "Arcadia grows bolder by the day. Their borders are secure, their alliances stable... but more dangerously, their royal bloodline has produced a threat."
"Speak clearly," the king growled.
The mage bowed deeper. "Prince Rowan Hale. The third son of Arcadia’s king. At just nineteen, he has reached Tier Two with both lightning and fire affinities. But that’s not all—he is also a gifted strategist. Controlled. But merciless toward his enemies. If he reaches Tier Three, he will become a great threat."
King Malrik leaned forward, his voice cold. "And you want to eliminate him?"
"Yes, my King. There is a perfect opportunity," the advisor said. "A week from now, Arcadia will hold its Young Elite Tournament. Prince Rowan is also a participant."
The king’s eyes glinted. "You want to assassinate him during a public event?"
"Not by force," the mage smiled. "By shadow."
He opened a small black case—inside was a crystalline needle etched with dark runes.
"A Tranquilin Needle. If it pierces the skin, the victim loses the ability to cast magic for twenty-four hours. No traces. No mana signature. We’ll send a spy, disguised as a tournament participant. One who is strong enough to rise through the ranks."