The truth hurts—not necessarily in the knowing of it, but in how it strips away one's ego. The truths Raiden spoke to the kingdom and its elders did precisely that.
Their honor, respect, and carefully cultivated maturity were being stung by a seventeen-year-old, and worse still, he voiced accusations that, even if denied, would forever tarnish their image as the wise elders they claimed to be.
However, from Alora's expression and the confidence in her tone—speaking with the sheer determination of a Persian princess—Raiden knew she herself might harbor her own agenda against him. Still, the barrier around them was finally broken. But was it at a price Raiden could afford to pay?
It was a calm afternoon, and Raiden, alongside everyone else, sat cross-legged on the grassy field to the right of the mansion's entrance.
