Chapter 92: Secrets of the Blood Pearl (2)

As he strolled alongside his mother, Alina, young Nikolai appeared lost in his own world, fiddling with his fingers and gazing thoughtfully ahead. His attire was simple yet elegant, reflecting a regal quality with its rich fabric and his long, dark hair, meticulously brushed and braided. Today marked the twentieth time in less than two weeks that Nikolai had been released from the dungeon, his propensity for causing chaos having earned him numerous stints in confinement. His eyes, however, betrayed an unsettling inner turmoil. Whispers echoed in his mind, a haunting chant that seemed to come from Tiana, the dark force that manipulated his every thought. 'The dragon king Rodion is visiting today. Give him a scar to remember.' Nikolai, though frightened, resisted. 'I… I don’t want to.' A sinister reply followed. 'How about I make you scar your dear mother? After all, she doesn't care one bit about you.' Nikolai swallowed hard, biting his lower lip in distress. 'Don’t make me see scar