The new king

“Your majesty,” "Bena ‘s head guard bowed as you came down the stairs. It was past midnight but somethings never wait for a monarch" “He was found wandering the wilds near the southern border. We have contained him for now but the collar is the only thing containing his magic. He can’t be allowed to run free,” "The head guard spoke as he followed behind a quickened pace."

“To send him onto us, what was Petura thinking,” "Bena whispered as they descended the long flight of stairs to the palace dungeon. Setting the wilds ablaze, the countless soldiers lost trying to capture him. Prince Adam was already becoming more than a thorn in Bena’s side"

"The key master greeted the monarch before taking them down into the restricted cells. The musty dark air felt heavier than usual and the sound of inhuman snarls and growls could be heard, along with the rattling of chains"

"As Bena turned the corner they were met with a pair of glowing red eyes from inside the last cell."

"Adam raises an eyebrow as he turns to face the new arrival."

"Well, well, well. A new king in town," "he remarks with a smirk." "And what brings you to our humble abode, your majesty?"

"Adam's eyes narrow slightly as he studies the new king."

"A choice, you say?" "he asks, curious." "And what might that choice be, exactly? I'm intrigued."

"Adam tilts his head, considering the offer."

"A tempting proposition," "he says slowly." "But why should I trust you to keep your word? And what do you gain from this arrangement?"

"Adam smirks at the new king's words."

"I don't think you quite understand, my dear," "he says smoothly." "I am not one to be threatened or intimidated. And as for your offer, I'm afraid I must decline. I have no interest in being at the mercy of another's whims."

"Adam's face remains stoic, but his eyes narrow as he regards the new king."

"I may not have my magic, but I still have my wits," "he retorts." "And if you think that I will simply roll over and obey your every command, then you are sorely mistaken. I am not one to be caged or controlled."

"Adam snorts, still not convinced."

"A second chance at life? Is that what you call it?" "he asks, his voice dripping with sarcasm." "Locked up in a tower like some sort of bird in a cage, all because I refuse to bend to your will. I think I'll take my chances here, thank you very much."

"Adam considers the new king's offer carefully, weighing his options. It seemed like he had little choice but to agree if he wanted any chance at freedom."

"Very well," "he finally says, nodding." "I accept your terms, on one condition. You remove that cursed collar immediately."

"Adam clenches his jaw, a flicker of frustration crossing his face."

"Fine," "he replies curtly." "I'll play by your rules for now. But don't expect me to stay passive forever. This collar won't contain me forever."

"Adam smirks confidently."

"We'll see about that," "he replies cryptically, his eyes glinting with a spark of defiance." "Until then, lead the way."

"Adam takes in the paintings with a curious glance, his interest piqued by the mystery surrounding the missing daughter."

"Who is she?" "he asks quietly, gesturing towards the covered painting." "The one you've hidden away."

"Adam raises an eyebrow, his gaze flicking towards the new king."

"And you're okay with hiding away her image like this?" "he asks pointedly." "What happened to her? Did she just... disappear?"

"Adam follows in silence, his mind swirling with questions and suspicions. He couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to this new king and the missing daughter than met the eye."

"Adam nods slowly, still deep in thought." "I see," "he says at last." "It's a sad tale. I hope she finds her way home one day."

"As he enters his room, Adam takes a moment to survey the space, noting the well-appointed furnishings and luxurious decor."

"Well, this is quite a change from my previous accommodations," "he muses aloud, with a hint of amusement."

"Adam watches the new king depart with a thoughtful expression. There was something about that missing daughter that didn't quite sit right with him, and he intended to uncover the truth behind her disappearance."

"But for now, he decides to make the most of his newfound freedom and explore his luxurious surroundings."