Through the portal

LXI

"These are some images that we were able to obtain from Empress Kahil's funeral." He says as I study the image on the panel.

The 6 empresses in their extravagant dresses next to Emperor Arkin III on a middle step.

Stunning faces, some I can recognize fill with jewelry, some I haven't seen before. In the picture, a few of them have slightly elongated ears, hinting at their strange heritage. Their diverse skin tones, eye shapes, and hair textures stand out. Their hands, elongated and pointed, adorned with bright and striking jewelry that catches the light.

"These on the long step are the princes."Says the colonel, pointing to the 17 elegant, tall, and graceful men. Their refined and attractive features are accentuated by the fine, exclusive, and shiny crowns on their heads. Each crown is intricately designed, reflecting the light in a dazzling array of colors. The men stand with a regal bearing, their posture and demeanor exuding an air of authority and nobility. Their clothes, made of the finest fabrics, shimmer with subtle patterns that hint at their high status and wealth.

Not even at miles away, these men can be confused as ordinary individuals.

"Aren't there supposed to be 25 princes?" Tracy asks.

"Excellent observation Tracy." Says the colonel and moves the image to the right and on the other side of the step 8 more princes.

Dressed in flowing white robes adorned with intricate golden and red designs, these garments conceal all but their hands, which are adorned with elaborate jewelry. Their heads are covered with delicate veils that obscure their hair and eyes, leaving only the tips of their firmly, finely sculpted noses and their pink lips visible. The veils are so finely woven that they shimmer subtly under the light, adding an air of mystery. The jewelry hanging from both noses and lips; hands glints with every movement, hinting at their elegance and the hidden beauty beneath.

What are they? Why do they hide their faces? 

Rune is not only known for being a wealthy world and eye-catching for its spectacular attractions that you can see before entering its atmosphere, but also known for its mysterious culture.

"They are the Meeks, princes with special abilities." He says making the image bigger, just focusing in them. "One of these is Prince Tahitie. We know that he made the plan for the conquest of Obsidian, a very brilliant and very organized plan. We have no doubt that he also created this one too since it kinda follows a pattern from the previous one." He says and looks at us. "I want you to find out who of between these 8 is him, because among Arkin's soldiers there are princes, and most likely he is one of them." He says looking at us.

Find out which one is him? How are we supposed to do that!? We don't even know his face!

DANICA

"Sit down." Says the emperor and making a gesture with his hand towards the chair in front of him.

Tahitie sits down and I sit on the arm of the chair.

He's definitely fuck.

"I know you went back there and not only I do know." He says before making a pause waiting for an answer from Tahitie, but Tahitie doesn't say anything.

Expected.

"Black Stone knows everything." He says trying to get a reaction from the young and naïve prince.

Silence. 

"Tahiti, why did you go back when I told you not to? Are you aware that your every move you make is being watch?" The emperor asks trying not to lose it.

Silence. 

Of course you can't say anything, because you have it all against you.

"What do you think you're doing? Do you know in how much risk your reputation has been in the last decades? At least pretend you're doing something." He says exhausted, angry, but without raising his voice.