Chapter 23: Chapter 23: Shadow Raven
The full moon, illuminating the palace terrace and accompanied by a mysterious presence of flying black ravens cast everything in a silvery glow.
Standing there with a glass of wine in hand, i was lost in thought as the lively festivities inside faded into the background.
A soft, familiar voice broke my reverie:
— I've been looking for you.
Turning around, I saw the Princess of Ednia Raelia.
She radiated elegance in a gown of soft pink white and green, her light chestnut hair held in place by a delicate headband.
Her vibrant orange eyes seemed to reflect the moonlight capturing a sense of both beauty and depth.
As she drew closer, she teased me with a playful nose pinch.
— Princess... I started, but she placed a finger on my lips.
— No titles, Jonady. Call me by my name.
Amused, I obliged:
— Raelia.
Satisfied, she chuckled before suddenly taking my hand and pulling me back into the grand ballroom.
Inside, nobles danced beneath glittering chandeliers as the orchestra played an energetic melody.
While we danced, her voice dropped to a whisper meant only for me:
— My men have taken care of Phillip, that scoundrel.
Her words brought a sudden gravity to the moment, though her face maintained a polite smile to avoid suspicion.
She continued to reveal Phillip's extensive list of crimes—embezzlement, bribery, illegal gambling, and worse.
Her sigh betrayed the weight of the situation as she admitted the network of conspirators among the nobility.
Our exchange laid the groundwork for a pivotal idea:
— Perhaps we need a dedicated unit to monitor noble activities, I suggested. Something covert to counter such plots in the future.
Raelia's raised eyebrow hinted at her intrigue, but she chose not to delve deeper, savoring the festive mood instead.
Neither of us realized that this simple thought would eventually lead to the creation of the Shadow Raven a secret intelligence group that would shape the kingdom's future.
For now we were just Jonady and Raelia, dancing under admiring gazes and glowing chandeliers, enjoying a rare moment of peace amidst hidden burdens.