Ryker walked down the castle's corridors, following the servant who had been assigned to guide him to the king's office. The ornate tapestries and polished wooden panels seemed to gleam in the flickering torchlight, casting a warm glow over the hallway. As he walked, Ryker couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and nervousness, it has been a week since his transmigration into this world.
The servant stopped in front of a large wooden door, adorned with intricate carvings of the royal crest. "This is the king's office, Your Highness," he said, bowing slightly. "The king and Knight Commander Brent are waiting for you."
Ryker took a deep breath, nodded, and pushed open the door. The king's office was a large, dimly lit room filled with the scent of parchment and ink. King Everard sat behind a massive wooden desk, while Knight Commander Brent stood before him, his expression grave.
"Ah, Ryker, good timing," the king said, gesturing for Ryker to approach. "Commander Brent has some updates on the investigation into the attack on your carriage."
Ryker nodded, taking a seat next to his father. Brent began his report, his voice steady and serious. "Your Majesties, we've made some progress in our investigation into the attack on the Crown Prince's carriage."
King Everard leaned forward, his eyes narrowed. "Tell us, Commander. What have you discovered?"
Brent bowed slightly. "We've identified several members of the Shadowhand who were involved in the attack. They seem to be a group of skilled mercenaries and thieves, with a network of informants and operatives throughout the kingdom."
Ryker's eyes widened as he listened to the report. "Do we know who's leading them?" he asked.
Brent's expression turned somber. "We've received reports of a figure known as the Nightmaster, who seems to be the leader of the Shadowhand. But we've been unable to gather much information about him."
King Everard's face darkened. "I want that Nightmaster brought to justice. See to it, Commander."
Brent nodded. "Yes, Your Majesty. We'll continue to follow leads and gather intelligence. But I must warn you, the Shadowhand is a slippery organization. They won't go down without a fight."
Ryker's mind was racing with thoughts of the Shadowhand and their plans. He knew that he had to be careful, but he was determined to help bring them to justice.
The king turned to Ryker. "Ryker, my son, I think it's time you started attending council meetings. We need to discuss the kingdom's response to the Shadowhand's attacks."
Ryker nodded, feeling a sense of trepidation. He knew that he had a lot to learn, but he was ready to take on the challenge.