Chapter 180: Duriel’s warning (1)
The peaceful days in Elowen came to an abrupt end with the arrival of a royal messenger. He rode into the village square on a lathered horse, his armor bearing the crest of the King. He dismounted and made his way directly to the new Church of Light, asking for the Grand Luminar.
Seraphina met him at the entrance. He handed her a sealed scroll. She broke the seal and read its contents, her expression turning grim.
She found Riku and the others in the longhouse, going over plans for the Lifewell Project.
"A summons from the capital," Seraphina announced, placing the scroll on the table. "The Central Council has convened. It is time for the sentencing of Vestarch Elian."
Lysaria looked up, her face frowning as she recalled the heretic who had ordered children to be burned alive.
"The King wishes to make an example of him," Seraphina said. "To show that the Church’s corruption will no longer be tolerated. Lysaria, as the primary witness and the one the Herald named, your presence is required." She then looked at Riku. "The King has also... requested your attendance. As a guest of honor."
Riku sighed. So much for peace. "Of course."
"We’ll all go," Lila said immediately, her expression firm. "We’re in this together."
"I’m not," a sharp voice cut in. Sherry stood by the doorway, her arms crossed. "Luxia? The heart of the Light Empire? No thank you. I’d rather walk into a nest of shadow-drakes."