The Flower Guarding Bug and the Praying Messenger Sophia lures Elianna to the old castle as a prank. Irvine rescues her and reveals his father was king of Maldura but his mother was from Sauslind, Lady Sylvia, daughter of the treasonous Lady Slade. Historically Maldura and Sauslind are enemies so Irvine was surprised Elianna arranged their latest peace agreement. They are suddenly attacked by criminals who intend to murder Elianna and Irvine to incite war. Irvine deduces the criminals work for his younger brother, Maldura's third prince...