Presage

Chapter 11 ♚ Clash Of Theories

A/N: Above is the photo of General Collosul, but much older :D  

***

The group was welcomed by a huge double door by the end of their long walk. It's smooth and dark wooden surface gave the impression that it was easy to breach. Yet, when they entered the room, Zoe noticed that it wasn't actually wood, but gemstones with dozens of seals visible beneath. How they managed to carve that? She had no idea. But with the symbol of an olive green shield and a golden tree in the middle of the door, she knew the room must be special, probably the King's office.

The moment they were inside, the scent of lavenders became faint, replaced by the smell of old paper and a hint of leather. Zoe craned her neck at the two platforms stretching above them, every corner was occupied by books. Just the sight of thousands of colorful covers screamed its name as the haven for book lovers. 

She twirled over the carpeted floor, sizing the room. It was a lot bigger than their library at home, wide enough to hold a party for fifty people. It could have been much lovelier if there were more decorations. Only the towering window provided the room with life, giving a perfect view of the distant town and field of lavenders.

"Here should be fine," King Spero said, seating Arlette on one of the cushioned chairs at the fireplace. He offered Zoe the other seat, but Darcy refused his offer. "What is it that you wanted to talk about?"

"You already know, so cut the act," Darcy exclaimed between gritted teeth.

The man chuckled a chilling tone as he leaned on his desk, having his back on the tantalizing scenery. For some reasons, Zoe thought that he was like the older version of Darcy, yet with two times the mysterious aura. There was something about him that yelled untrustworthy at all sides.

Maybe it runs in the family, she thought.

He searched his desk topped with paper works and books thicker than Zoe's palm, picking up a silver pen and started twirling it around his fingers.

"Indeed," he said, matching the young Prince's cold stare. "May I know where you found her?"

"I should be the one asking you that." Darcy finally freed her wrist, instantly clenching his hand into a fist. "It was clear that the Heroine would be born in another realm after the cycle."

The pen hit the floor as his eyes turned to Zoe as if seeing her for the first time. "So you found her in the other realm?" He stood, crushing the material underneath his heavy armor. "You, of all people should know the punishment for your actions."

"Don't change the topic!"

"Wait a second!" Zoe struggled for words. "What do you mean by punishment? Is he gonna be put in jail?"

"Oh, much worst, young lady." He smiled, tempting her to push him out of the window. "You see, we are forbidden to enter your realm, for it will disrupt the flow of life and death. During the Ancient times, our world was united, but after the Dark Age, a barrier was made to prevent destruction from reaching your realm."

His attention slid to Darcy with eyes full of inquiries and amusement. They lingered there for a moment before going back to Zoe. "For a long time, no one dared to cross the barrier for it requires... a payment."

"Payment?" she echoed, her brows knitting together.

The King nodded. "However, I can't disclose it with you, young lady. It's an information only passed down to members of The Council and the Royal families. But to answer your question earlier," he continued, "yes, he would be thrown in jail and all of his powers and his title as royalty would be stripped away. After that, he would be sent to the impenetrable prison of Quebaras and never leave that place."