Royal Castle – Midnight
The royal castle loomed under the silver moonlight, its towering spires casting long shadows across the city. Deep within its highest tower, a secret meeting was unfolding—one that would shape the future of the Clover Kingdom.
Solis Vermillion sat in the dimly lit chamber across from Julius Novachrono, the Wizard King. A candle flickered between them, illuminating their faces as the tension in the air grew heavier.
Julius leaned forward, resting his chin on his hands. "So, you called me here in secret. What is it that you need, Solis?"
Solis placed a thick parchment on the table. "I want to create a new squad."
Julius's eyes widened slightly before a curious smile spread across his face. "A new squad? That's not something proposed lightly."
Solis nodded. "This squad won't be like the Magic Knights. It will act as a police force dedicated to the Forsaken Realm and other crime-infested areas. Right now, bandits and rogue mages exploit the commoners while the Magic Knights focus on large-scale threats."
Julius's expression turned serious as he picked up the document. "You're right. There is no dedicated force to maintain order on a local level."
Solis leaned forward. "Which is why I propose the creation of the Sun Guard—an elite unit trained for crime prevention, law enforcement, and protecting the vulnerable."
Julius scanned the parchment, his keen eyes analyzing every detail. It was well-structured, listing the squad's hierarchy, training programs, and jurisdiction. However, one particular clause caught his attention.
"The Sun Guard will answer only to me?" Julius smirked. "You're quite the strategist, Solis."
Solis's gaze remained firm. "You know why I wrote that. If this squad is placed under my control, the nobles will accuse me of consolidating power. If an existing Magic Knight Captain is chosen, it'll be seen as favoritism. But if you lead it, the nobles won't have the grounds to protest."
Julius chuckled. "You're setting up safeguards against political manipulation."
Solis nodded. "The Magic Knights have their own hierarchy and noble influence. This squad must remain independent—free from political corruption."
Julius exhaled. "And who do you propose as the leader?"
Solis leaned back. "That's where I want your expertise. You know the best candidates. But it can't be an existing Magic Knight Captain—otherwise, this will be seen as an internal power grab."
Julius thought for a moment before his eyes sparkled with excitement. "Then let's let them prove themselves."
Solis raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"
Julius grinned. "We hold a tournament—a grand competition where the best rising stars from all squads, except captains, can compete for the position. The winner becomes the first Captain of the Sun Guard."
Solis smirked. "A merit-based selection?"
Julius laughed. "Exactly. That way, no one can claim bias."
Solis tapped his fingers on the table. After a moment, he nodded. "Very well. We'll move forward with this plan."