As always, Otto’s father was in the Crystal Chamber along with several soldiers of the Crown Guard. The huge, open area harnessed the magic that pulsed in the land beneath Crystalia Castle through the massive crystals set in the outer walls of the room. Focusing the reflection off of a mystic’s gemstone activated the crystals to open portals to any point in the world.
According to the Deeproot Druid, the golem, Daemonus, is also imprisoned beneath this very floor.
Being the leader of the Paladins, his father would see many of his men off, as well as give last minute orders and advice to those going to the more dangerous regions of the kingdom.
It hadn’t always been this way. Originally the Paladins had been sent on their quests from the barracks, but after they had learned that the Cult of the Dark Consul had been whispering lies into their ears, his father had taken it upon himself to give them an honorable send-off. For some, it was the last time they laid eyes on the Castle.
My word, as it could be with me.
“Were you given all of the information you need?” his father asked.
Otto nodded. “I believe so, Father. The Goddess has seen fit to give me all of the necessary pieces for me to go on my quest. Please have the mystics prepare the crystals.”
“And to where will you be going?”
“The Midnight Tower. Now that Princess Ruby is dead, this will be our last chance to stop the Midnight Queen.”
“I see . . .” His father looked down. “I know I haven’t always been a good father to you, because of my duty, you see.” He began to walk about the Chamber.
Otto followed behind him. “You are the leader of the Paladins. What greater role model could a son need in life?”
“There’s more to being a father than being a role model, Otto. A good father should be there in more ways than teaching lessons of his profession, always pushing hi—”
“My word! Is this really how you want me to remember you?” Otto shook his head, stunned that he would say such things in front of the other soldiers. “Look at me, Father. I say, look at me and tell me you didn’t do a good job!”
His father’s eyes roamed over Otto in his immaculate armor before finally meeting the determination in his eyes. Then he turned away. “Indeed . . . Very well. I know that wherever you are sent, you will go with the grace of the Goddess. I’m proud of you.”
Capital!
Otto bowed and turned to leave when the Chamber began to shake. One of the large crystals along the wall fell and shattered on the floor. Otto and his father spread their arms to balance themselves as another tremor hit the Castle.
When the shaking finally stopped, his father called, “Crown Guard, go find out what that is! I will hold the Chamber!”
The soldiers rushed out. Whoever was fighting the thing that had created such an impact would need backup. Otto’s gaze met his father’s. Otto’s father nodded as a signal for him to join them, and Otto took off, running from the Chamber. He sprinted, panting, through the vast halls. He was about to climb the stairs to the Rain Court when the Castle shook once more.
I say, this Castle is supposed to be impregnable! What could possibly be shaking it like that?
Placing a hand on the wall for balance, he continued to climb. As soon as he arrived at the top of the stairs, his question was answered.
In the twilight sky above the Rain Court, a massive form flew. The tattered wings and the long, jagged claws of a skull-faced, undead dragon filled the sky. It landed on the outer wall. When Otto saw its magenta hue, a name arose from his memory.
It can’t be . . . that dragon . . . that’s Nightsong the Eternal!