Chapter 16 ~ History Of The Unknown

• “I know what he looks like,” Tharion murmured, voice barely above a whisper, yet heavy with the weight of command. The crimson glow of dawn seeped through the tall stained glass windows of the king’s private chamber, casting jagged shards of light across the polished marble floor. King Tharion sat alone upon his obsidian throne, his expression hard and unreadable as he stared into the flickering flames of the hearth. The vision had left an indelible mark, not just because he glimpsed the face of a boy who had disturbed his slumber, but because that face had sparked a cold flicker of recognition.
• His fingers tightened into fists, nails digging into the armrests. For years, faces had passed before his eyes—enemies, allies, pawns in his relentless quest for dominion, but this face was new. Unknown, yet unsettlingly familiar in its boldness and innocence.
• The heavy chamber doors creaked open, and Lareth, the king’s ever-loyal advisor, stepped quietly into the room. His sharp eyes caught the tension in the air immediately. “You summoned me, Your Grace?” Lareth asked, bowing slightly. Tharion’s eyes lifted slowly, fixing on Lareth with a piercing gaze. “Yes. Come closer.” Lareth moved forward, wary but obedient. The king’s voice was a low growl as he spoke. “There is a boy, the one who intruded on my vision, the one who carries a spark of defiance I have not seen in decades.” Lareth frowned. “A boy?” Tharion nodded once. “I saw his face clearly. I know what he looks like, but I know nothing else. His name, his origins, his family… nothing.”