Bab 15: The Chamber of the Amber Spirit

Prince Archilles took a leisurely walk among the massive and majestic halls of the Amber Palace. Old and authentic ambiance hangs in the air that exudes an air of timeless elegance, its architecture and intricate decor a testament to the rich history of Hazel Grove. The elaborately decorated, ornate walls adorned with detailed excellence couldn't seem to bother his deep and ambitious plans for the future. With his newfound strength, Prince Archilles walked with his dignified aura that was ready to engage his enemies ahead.

The majestic halls, lined with tapestries depicting heroic tales and glistening chandeliers casting a warm glow, seemed to embrace Prince Archilles with an aura of regal assurance. The murmurs of his subjects echoed through the corridors, a constant reminder of the responsibility that rested upon his shoulders. The adoration of his loyal subjects could be seen reflected through their eyes.

Amidst the opulence, Prince Archilles's mind was consumed by his ambitious plans for the future. He was determined to take Hazel Grove to its rightful place, the greatest Kingdom this land had ever seen. The challenges ahead were immense, but he embraced them with unwavering resolve and a vision that burned brightly within his heart.

As he walked, his dignified aura radiated from him, drawing the attention of those who passed by. The whispers of his subjects spoke of their admiration and hope, for they saw in him a leader who possessed the strength and determination to guide them through the tumultuous times ahead.

As he reached the end of the hall, a grand set of double doors stood before him, leading to a war room where most of the kingdoms strategist and great minds assembles; The Chamber of the Amber Spirit. With a deep breath, Prince Archilles pushed open the doors and stepped into the war room.

As Prince Archilles went inside, his dignified aura radiated from him, drawing the attention of those who were inside the war room. Inside were people that worked closely with Prince Archilles, it was the group of people who have supported their Young Lord in accomplishing his greater goal. There were the two famous strategists from the kingdom of Hazel Grove; the protector of the Jungles of Ember, Sir Ramsay Tolbone; and the Hand of the King, Sir Methuselah, who was rumored to have lived even before King Cedric's father, the late King Peleus.

It was during King Peleus's reign that the feud between Hazel Grove and the Great Kingdom of Ethos began. When Ethos's Supreme Ruler at that time, late young Emperor Thector, abused his power against the conservative Royals of Hazel Grove. He would use his authority to assault Hazel Grove's women, including the ladies from the Royal family. In the end, King Peleus revolted against the immoral actions of the young King Thector. And King Thector had him beheaded on his whim. Just like that, Hazel Grove's bloody history has haunted the people of the kingdom of Hazel Grove.

Still, King Cedric made it so that his loyal subjects would not nurture hate and vengeance against the Great Kingdom of Ethos. He made great efforts to stabilize and improve the relationship between the two kingdoms. And his efforts bore fruit, which protected his kingdom and his loyal subjects this long enduring peace with the Great Kingdom of Ethos.

Prince Archilles greeted this esteemed elders and looked the other side of the grand table which seated the Immortal Cultivators from the different secluded and mysterious lands. Led by Elder Meng Fu from the Divine Void Sect; Elder Bai Feng from the Starfall Sect; and the most private and reticent Elder Zhu Hongwu from the Heavenly Sword Mountain.

"Master, Esteemed elders from the different holy lands, Sir Ramsay and Sir Methuselah, I apologize for being unpunctual. Let us begin with our plans, as we are about to receive the retaliation from the Great Kingdom of Ethos." Prince Archilles said with clear and determined articulation.

The war room buzzed with anticipation as reports on the movements of the Great Kingdom of Ethos was presented. Maps were laid out, displaying the regions where Ethos had begun to assert its influence. Prince Archilles listened attentively, absorbing every detail and contemplating the best course of action.

"It's been two month since we've began and struck Steelport, this news has already reached the Great Kingdom of Ethos in less than a week. And they haven't made a move against us just yet; rather, they sent an ambassador asking of our intentions." Sir Ramsay Tolbone reported.

He continued, "After we swept Ironfort in a single night, the Great Kingdom of Ethos assembled a reconnaissance group to investigate the aftermath of the battles, and after that, we haven't seen any more from them. But just last week, one of our outposts from the south was reported to have lost its communication with our central office."

"Two days after we've lost communication with that outpost, all of our southern outposts, five in total, also lost communication. After that, I've sent scouts to recover communications and to uncover the reason behind all this. But until now, no scouts have returned."

Silence loomed over the chamber. Not a sound could be heard. Everyone had an indifferent look as they gaze upon the information brought before them.

Sir Methuselah spoke first and his gaze landed before the Immortal Cultivators, "I fear that Ethos has finally made their moves. And it seems like they have powerful Immortal Cultivators among their ranks."

Elder Bai Feng was insulted, but Elder Meng Fu cut him off before he could vent his angers out, "What Sir Methuselah guessed may be correct. The Great Kingdom of Ethos has stood for more than a thousand years in this mortal land; it is a strong testament of their power and abilities throughout time. For sure, Ethos had built connections with Immortal Cultivators to ensure their survival."

"But nonetheless, Ethos will definitely not have any cultivator above the peak of Foundation Establishment Stage like Elder Meng; because if so, our Immortal sects would've long seen them as a threat and made actions against their rise." the reserved Elder Zhu Hongwu spoke with a calm and composed voice.

Elder Bai Feng kept his cool after the interjection of Elder Zhu Hongwu. He also realized that even if Ethos did have Immortal Cultivators by their ranks, it wouldn't pose a threat against them who came from this world's most prestigious Immortal holylands.

"That being said, can we entrust the threat of Immortal Cultivators to your esteemed selves, Elder Meng, Elder Zhu?" Sir Methuselah inquired unabashed.

This time, it truly infuriated Elder Bai Feng. "I alone am more than enough against this mountain of threat that bothers your mortal bones!"

"Elder Bai…" Elder Meng Fu pacified.

"Excuse me for being blunt Young Lord, Esteemed elders. But as far as I know, the records could also testify as to where I am coming from. But as far as I know, your deployment here at Hazel Grove is not by anyway is a contract that allows you to protect us against our mortal concerns." Sir Methuselah continued.

The furious Elder Bai Feng seems to have been poured a bucket of iced cold water. What Sir Methuselah had just said was the truth, and that they were not bound to protect Hazel Grove and its Royals. He couldn't retort a word, and could only look into Elder Meng Fu. Elder Zhu Hongwu shut his eyes off and seems to not show any reaction to what Sir Methuselah's statements, he also knew this and he also doesn't have any plans to intervene against Hazel Grove's troubles. He had already planned to keep away from these troubles and patrol quietly.

Prince Archilles also knew of this, he too gave his master a gaze of inquiry.

In response to these, Elder Meng Fu smiled and nodded. Sir Methuselah is truly knowledgeable as much as Immortal Cultivators. "I understand your concerns, Sir Methuselah. And I assure you, in my name, that I will protect Hazel Grove and its Royals. The home of my disciple, I shall also treat as my own. Worry not, for you have me at your side."

Sir Methuselah holds huge military authority within the kingdom of Hazel Grove. As the Rulers holds authority with the kingdoms administration, it is the duty of the Hand of the King to make sure the kingdom is well protected and secured. Sir Methuselah was the most vocal person to stand against igniting a war with Ethos. Even though he hated Ethos, He cannot risk the lives of the people of Hazel Grove to satisfy the thirst for battle of their Young Lord. Thus, the support and satisfaction of Sir Methuselah is a huge factor in facing against the Great Kingdom of Ethos.

Prince Archilles didn't mind this, he have anticipated this mentality of Sir Methuselah. And he truly acknowledges this. In his mind, he needed this kind of check from Sir Methuselah to perfectly formulate a path for him to take, and not just blindly forging his way against the Great Kingdom of Ethos.

The room fell silent, each individual deep in thought, contemplating the best way to confront the growing threat. Prince Archilles, his eyes filled with determination, addressed the gathered strategists and advisors. "We must play to our strengths and employ unconventional methods. We cannot engage Ethos in a direct confrontation at this time, as we are still regrouping and strengthening our forces."

"Shall we seek alliance with neighboring kingdoms that have shared interests with us, Young Lord?" Sir Ramsay Tolbone replied and asked.

Prince Archilles nodded in agreement. "Yes, alliances will be crucial in our efforts but it won't be necessary for our victory. Hazel Grove's fury and resentments are more than enough to stand against Ethos. We must also utilize our knowledge of the land to our advantage. The hazardous landscapes and treacherous terrain can be utilized to hinder Ethos's progress and disrupt their supply lines."

The strategists, inspired by their ruler's resolute demeanor, began to discuss possible strategies and tactics to counter Ethos's expansion. Each suggestion was carefully considered, weighed against the kingdom's resources and capabilities.

As the meeting drew to a close, Prince Archilles rose from his seat, his voice filled with conviction. "We shall forge a path of resilience and defiance. We will not succumb to the pressures of Ethos. Together, we will protect our land, our people, and the sovereignty of Hazel Grove. Let the world bear witness to the strength and tenacity of our kingdom!"

In that moment, Prince Archilles's heart swelled with determination. The vastness of the kingdom lay at his feet, a canvas upon which he would paint a new future. With every fiber of his being, he vowed to lead Hazel Grove towards prosperity and unity, to defend its honor and sovereignty against any who would dare threaten it.

Leaning against the balcony railing, Prince Archilles cast his gaze across the horizon, his eyes gleaming with fury and ambition. He knew it wouldn't be an easy feat, but he shall not be shaken. Suddenly, a servant came rushing before him, panting and fearful.

the servant struggled to report , "Young… Young Lord! The… The Slave… Neebo is still alive!"