The Superior Rebirth: A Hero's Awakening

Shadows and Sparks

The grand office exuded an air of majesty, its high ceilings adorned with intricate carvings and golden accents reflecting the glow of the setting sun. A white-haired man sat at a mahogany desk, his sharp yet gentle gaze focused on the documents before him. Standing nearby was his butler, Viktor Mirovich, a man whose every movement spoke of practiced elegance.

A soft knock interrupted the tranquil atmosphere.

"Enter," the man said, his voice steady yet inviting.

The heavy oak door creaked open to reveal a maid, her steps precise and head bowed respectfully. "Greetings, Your Majesty," she said, her tone humble but steady. "What may this lowly servant do for you today?"

The man before her was none other than King Graviil Ivanovich, sovereign of the Great Russian Empire, Lord of Light, and head of the illustrious Ivanovich family.

Graviil set his pen down, the faint scratch of ink against parchment ceasing as he turned his full attention to the maid. "Raise your head, Irina. There's no need for such formality between us."

"As you wish, Lord Graviil," she replied, lifting her face to meet his gaze. His piercing eyes, radiant and kind, seemed to command both respect and trust.

"How is the child?" Graviil asked warmly. "Is she adjusting well?"

Irina hesitated, her composure faltering for a moment. She clasped her hands tightly, a flicker of worry crossing her face. Noticing this, Graviil leaned forward slightly, concern etched into his expression. "Is something wrong?"

"My apologies, my lord," Irina stammered. "Things were fine at first, but..." She swallowed hard. "The girl has locked herself in her room. She hasn't eaten in three days."

"What?" Graviil's voice, though not raised, carried a weight that made Irina flinch. "And you're only telling me this now?"

Irina took a step back, her cheeks pale. "Forgive me, my lord! We tried to inform you, but you were away on a business trip. We thought it best to handle the situation ourselves..."

Graviil sighed deeply, leaning back in his chair and pinching the bridge of his nose. "First, my daughter gets attacked, and now this? I shouldn't have let my guard down—not after everything."

Viktor, ever observant, intervened with a calm yet firm tone. "My lord, if I may—dwelling on what-ifs will do no good. Your ability, the All-Seeing Eye, was sealed for a reason. Lady Svetlana herself implored you to deactivate it to honor the freedom and privacy of all under your care. You must trust her judgment."

Graviil closed his eyes, recalling the solemn promise he'd made to his wife. His All-Seeing Eye, an ability part of his 'Absolute Light' gifted power. Capable of illuminating and observing everything within the reach of light, was an unparalleled gift. Yet Svetlana had argued passionately against its use, believing it could erode trust and strip away their country's people's intrinsic right to privacy.

After a moment, Graviil nodded. "You're right, Viktor. As always."

"I live to serve, my lord," Viktor said with a slight bow. "Now, as for the child, Lady Svetlana has already taken it upon herself to tend to her. The royal family and the nation remain secure—I've ensured that personally. You have many who stand by you. Remember, even the strongest shoulders must share their burdens."

Graviil let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. The weight on his chest lightened slightly, thanks to Viktor's steady reassurance.

"Thank you, old friend," Graviil said quietly. "You're more a brother to me than a servant."