Rook became more serious after learning about his younger brother's true colours. Mana had learnt by now that Rook's father, the late General Aquila, had been a big favourite of both King Corvus and Crown Princess Pica – and if Crown Princess Pica and Head Sage Yue – both travelling incognito – hadn't met each other and fallen in love at first sight until their real identities were exposed at the time of Raven's birth, General Aquila would have been Crown Princess Pica's first husband instead. Not only was General Aquila one of the best generals in the history of the Obsidian Kingdom, but he was also a distant relative of the royal family with a bit of royal blood in him - enough for him to have a royal token. He was also the best friend of Crown Princess Pica while growing up, and the one who had been instrumental in rescuing Crown Princess Pica and the newborn Raven from the Pearl Kingdom.
There are some gifts which haven't made an appearance in the story yet - but I'll get to them soon. Meanwhile, a big thank you to swil13, Lovelyn_8 and Veraldine_Dike for all the gifts! Mana, Raven and Azar send their love!