The kingdom of Muryia, situated on the westernmost frontier of the S?rifye continent, was a vassal state of the Léonas Empire. Like Caispe, the kingdom's primary exports included its vast naval vessels and skilled sailors. Upon stepping off the ship, a group of high-level Muryian officials greeted Elaine and her entourage.

  "Welcome, esteemed visitors, to Muryia." A man wearing an extravagant headdress advanced ahead of his group and placed a hand on his shoulder, bowing before Elaine and Elias. Other men behind him also followed his lead. “My name is Iscan Akyüze Gürlema, the Crown Prince of Muryia. My father has entrusted me with the noble task of leading you to the magician's tower," he introduced himself. The man appeared to be in his late thirties with a broad physique. His sun-kissed skin, a healthy shade of bronze, complemented the jewel-braided blond hair cascading down his back. Blessed with a robust jawline and prominent cheekbones, the man bore the visage of a dauntless warrior.

  "I extend my sincere gratitude for your nation's hospitality," Elaine stated, eyes surveying the inhabitants of the Muryia Kingdom. Besides the Léonasian, those who dwelt upon the S?rifye continent all appeared to carry an untamed fierceness, as though imbued into them by the land itself.

  After the brief exchange, Iscan led the étoile's delegation to a row of awaiting carriages. The ride took about twenty minutes as they navigated through the port town's winding streets and became a temporary attraction for its citizens. Upon reaching the satellite magician's tower, perched atop a hill on the outskirts of town, the entourage proceeded through the customary procedure and entered the portal.

  Time passed slowly in the foggy, white tunnel. When they exited a few hours later, Elaine finally exhaled in relief. Her hand released its grip on the tiny crimson vial dangling from her neck. Though it staved off the creatures on the ship, she was uncertain whether it would have the same effect within the portal. Luckily, the blood did not disappoint, and Elaine was able to pass through without hindrance.

  "We have arrived at the Léonas Empire, Lady Estella," Elias informed her. Their entourage had reached the satellite magician's tower outside the Capital City.

  "I see. Thank you, milord." Elaine drew back the curtain and opened the carriage's window, beholding the majestic vista stretched before her.

  Avèrshyn, the illustrious center of the Léonas Empire, epitomized power and prosperity. Positioned between the boundless scorching desert to the east and the towering mountain range to the west, its structures were designed to adapt to the vast climatic differences between the two landscapes. Within the confines of Avèrshyn, imposing stately edifices stood interwoven with magnificent temples and monumental statues, each a testament to the Léonasian belief in progress while simultaneously expressing their reverence for the Gods. Nestled at the heart of the Capital City's unmatched grandeur and opulence was the Rei Amahna Palace, an expansive structure with sprawling halls and chambers numbered in the thousands. It served as the primary gathering venue for the city's most prominent inhabitants and the regal residence of the Léonas royal family.

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  "We extend our cordial welcome to the esteemed delegation of the étoile Empire, our dearest friend and steadfast ally, to the enchanting city of Avèrshyn," an older man proclaimed when Elaine stepped down from the carriage. He led a group of men adorned in lavish robes. Their gazes and gestures were warm and inviting as they greeted her. "Please follow me." After brief pleasantries, the man inclined his body and motioned to a large, glowing archway opened by the magicians. Beyond the radiant lights and mists lay outlines of an ornately decorated chamber.

  Elaine nodded and followed the older man as he guided her and the étoile's entourage into the dense, swirling vapors.

  On the other side was the magician's tower inside the Rei Amahna Palace. Several dozen servants awaited them when they arrived. "May the Gods bestow their blessing upon you." At the helm of the servants stood an older woman, seemingly in her fifties, who approached Elaine. The woman wore light-colored court attire adorned with delicate embroideries and a matching semi-transparent veil draped over half her visage, contributing to her enigmatic aura. "I am the chamberlain tasked with serving your delegation. It is my privilege to offer myself at your service, Lady Estella of the étoile Empire. Please do not hesitate to summon me should your needs require attention." After her introduction, the woman and the other palace servants knelt in unison, bowing deeply with their heads touching the backs of their palms.

  "When will the ascension ceremony commence?" Elaine inquired. The nine days she spent at sea had significantly reduced the time she had allocated for enacting her plan.

  "Tomorrow morning."

  "That soon?" Elaine could not hide her surprise. Neither the Duke nor the étoile Emperor informed her of the ceremony timeline, only that she would arrive punctually to attend. If Elaine had known she would have to participate immediately after the tiring voyage, she would have requested an earlier departure.

  "Yes, the court seers decided the date months ago. Is there an issue, Lady Estella?"

  "There is no issue." Elaine sighed. "Show me to my chamber. I wish to retire." She needed to quell her exhaustion before the critical event.

  "As you wish, milady." The woman complied. She then instructed the servants to settle Elias and the other étoilean guests in their quarters. "Please follow me, milady."

  "I shall see you tomorrow, Sir d'Amboise," Elaine addressed the black-haired young man before leaving.

  He nodded in acknowledgment. "I wish you a restful night, Lady Estella."