Erythro: The Prophecy Unveiled

The sky darkened as ominous clouds gathered on the horizon, painting the heavens in shades of deep gray. The air grew heavy with the promise of impending rain, and distant rumblings of thunder echoed through the landscape. Leaves rustled nervously in the wind, and birds took shelter in the safety of their nests.

In the narrow alleys of Adriell, stray cats sought shelter under awnings and in alcoves, their eyes reflecting the anxiety that permeated the atmosphere. The sound of distant thunder rumbled through the quiet city, a warning of the storm's approach.

Residents peered out from behind curtained windows, watching as the first drops of rain splattered against the cobbled streets. The gentle patter soon turned into a torrential downpour, transforming the city into a watery maze of reflections and shimmering lights.

Those outside seek refuge in their homes, finding shelter from the storm. Many shops close their doors earlier than usual, resulting in a tranquil cityscape devoid of bustling activity. Amidst this turbulent backdrop, a lone figure stood atop a rugged cliff, gazing out at the Carthage castle. The wind whipped at the figure's black cloak, tugging at them as if urging retreat from the brewing tempest.

As lightning streaked across the sky, illuminating the darkening clouds with an eerie glow, the figure's eyes narrowed with resolve. And as the first drops of rain began to fall, mingling with tears that were lost in the fury of the storm, the figure suddenly disappeared like a shadow.

Inside the grand halls of the castle, the stormy weather outside seemed to seep through the ancient stone walls. The usually warm and inviting atmosphere was tinged with an eerie chill as gusts of wind rattled the windows and rain hammered against the thick glass panes. Candlelight flickered, casting dancing shadows on the tapestries that adorned the walls, their vibrant colors muted in the dim glow. The crackle of the fireplace struggled to compete with the howling winds, its warmth providing a small refuge from the raging tempest outside.

Amidst the castle's sturdy walls, the inhabitants sought solace in their activities. Servants hurried about, ensuring that windows were secure, and fires remained lit against the chill. Nobles gathered in the grand hall, their voices hushed as they discussed matters of court and strategy, the storm adding an air of urgency to their deliberations.

In the inner chambers, the royal family sought comfort in the familiarity of their surroundings. The king's sister sat by a window, her gaze fixed on the stormy scene outside, a contemplative expression on her face. The king paced restlessly, his thoughts consumed by concerns both within and beyond the castle walls.

As thunder rumbled ominously, a sense of anticipation filled the air. The storm had brought with it an air of uncertainty, a reminder of the forces of nature that could not be tamed, even within the fortress of a mighty castle. Princess Vivienne remarked, "What's happening? Your frivolous apprehension won't solve anything." King Alex, his brow furrowed in worry, responded, "A black wolf attack has struck our empire!" The princess, her steps faltering, sank onto a nearby couch. Seeking solace, she reached for a book on the table and flipped it open to lose herself in its pages.

The princess, clutching the book a moment too long, finally spoke, her voice barely a whisper. "Are you sure, your majesty? A black wolf? Couldn't it have been a normal one, a wild wolf perhaps?" She still wouldn't meet his gaze, her eyes fixed on the pages of the book she was reading. King Alex sighed, the lines on his face deepening. "It happened right after the festival, Viv. And there was... a peculiar parade just before the attack."

He saw her stiffen, a flicker of recognition finally crossing her features. "Sebastian encountered it," he continued, his voice low and urgent. "Said it appeared just as I returned to the palace. This parade... their singing, the people in wolves' costumes dancing through the streets. It's too much of a coincidence. Don't you see?"

"What? That's impossible. It's been two centuries already, and the regents suggested they might be extinct after the great war," the princess exclaimed. "I'm aware. But they're uncertain too. Some speculate they're in hiding, preparing for retaliation". "Remember the song? The legend?" the king added. "Come on, do you really believe that?" the princess asked incredulously. "It's just a children's tale. We don't even know its origins. Besides, didn't the regents order all the books about that to be burned?" she continued.

"Yes, they did. The regents... they're just a bunch of gullible individuals who believe whatever suits them," the king replied, disappointment evident in his tone. With a deep sigh, he added, "We're on high alert. I've instructed everyone to stay vigilant. Additional guards have been dispatched across the castle grounds and the surrounding towns and cities. As of now, they're discussing the implementation of a curfew throughout the empire."

"Fret not, Your Majesty. Perhaps it was just a regular wolf, nothing out of the ordinary," the princess reassured, placing the book she had been reading back on the table. "Let's hope so. By the way, the regents who are in-charge of the case will visit here in the castle to talk about the case" the king said, his concern still lingering. His sister, Princess Vivienne nodded in response as she closed the book in her hand and place it back on the table.

In the dimly lit castle hallway, the prince moved cautiously, glancing left and right to ensure no one was nearby. He silently made his way to the castle's kitchen, deftly opening a cupboard to retrieve a box of cookies. With a mischievous grin, he selected one and prepared to indulge. Suddenly, Madeline emerged from the kitchen's back door, cradling a cat in her arms. "What are you up to?" she inquired, catching the prince in the act. Startled, he responded, "I was just bored and couldn't sleep."

"These cookies are off-limits. They're for tomorrow, and you know you're not supposed to eat too many sweets. I heard that from one of the senior servants yesterday," Madeline scolded gently. "You're quite nosy, aren't you?" the prince retorted with a hint of pride. "Besides, I'm a prince, so I don't have the same restrictions."

"Is that right?" Madeline challenged. "Well, then I'll have to mention this to Miss Mary when she wonders why the cookies are disappearing. She might start suspecting me." Mary is one of the cooks who always scold Madeline. The prince relented with a chuckle, returning the box but sneaking another cookie. "Hey!" Madeline protested, surprised.

"Don't worry, I'll take the blame. You can have one if you'd like," the prince offered playfully. "I'm fine," Madeline replied, stroking the cat in her arms. "Who's this little one?" the prince inquired with curiosity and stood in front of Madeline, looking at the black cat. "I found him outside. He looked so hungry and lost, so I brought him here. Is that okay?" Madeline asked, seeking approval from the prince.

"It's alright with me, but the head servant might not allow it," the prince remarked, his expression tinged with concern. He went near the cat and pat it on the head.

"But you're the prince, I'm sure she'll come around once you mention it to her," Madeline interjected, her eyes bright with hope. "Please..." she added, flashing a charming smile.

A defeated sigh escaped Prince Sebastian's lips. "Alright, alright," he conceded with a smile, touched by Madeline's infectious enthusiasm. "I'll speak to the head servant on your behalf." Madeline's face broke into a radiant smile, gratitude sparkling in her eyes. "Thank you, Your Highness! You're a lifesaver." The prince watched her, then his gaze drifted to the black cat nestled in her arms.

"You know," he began thoughtfully, "there's an old superstition in our empire. Black cats are said to bring bad luck." Madeline tilted her head, considering this. "But that doesn't make sense, does it? It's just an ordinary cat. Judging someone based on fur color seems a bit unfair?" The prince chuckled. "Right. Perhaps the kitchens need a bit more sunshine in their outlook." With a gentle touch, Madeline placed the cat back in its cozy shelter outside.

Returning inside, she found Prince Sebastian already on his feet. "Actually, I was headed to the library," he announced. "Would you care to join me?" A flicker of excitement danced in Madeline's eyes. "Can I? That would be lovely!" "Absolutely," the prince replied warmly. "Good company is always welcome." But a shadow of worry flitted across Madeline's face. She remembered the promise she'd made to her mother just the night before. "Oh," she mumbled, averting her gaze.

"Actually, I might have a few more tasks to finish up first." The prince raised an eyebrow. "The head servant assigning chores even in the evening? That does seem a bit excessive, doesn't it?" "Y-yes," Madeline stammered, her voice barely a squeak. Before he could question her further, she blurted, "I best get to it then, wouldn't want to fall behind!" With that, she made a hasty retreat from the kitchen, leaving the prince with a furrowed brow and a lingering sense of unease.

But Madeline's assigned tasks were already completed, yet she bypassed her usual spot to rest within the servant quarters. Instead, she pushed open the familiar door of their room, a tremor of unease settling in her stomach. The room was empty. Her mother, who usually spent evenings mending, was nowhere to be seen.