The true Dalmenton bore the dual-dragon symbol, a birthmark on their right shoulder passed down through the bloodline. Whoever had this was a real descendant of the clan, a child from their ancient lineage.
But Alvin had no such mark.
He came from a completely different family, long before he met Rose. He fell in love with her, married her, and took the Dalmenton name when he became her husband.
Alvin rose through the ranks on raw talent and unyielding resolve. He defeated every new rival that stood in his path, instilling in them both respect and fear. Overwhelmingly powerful and a natural-born leader, he was eventually pushed to the very top and gained the title of head of the family.
Yet, many did not accept him. They hated that a man without Dalmenton blood - without the sacred mark - was leading them.
But their opinions did not matter, for he was chosen by the Celestial Being herself. And so long as those who resented him did not threaten the family or his loved ones, Alvin let them grumble in silence.
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Soon, Rivera and her father would embark on a journey to the highest mountain, which was the Celestial Sacred Sanctuary.
Rose got warm clothes for Rivera. The weather over this mountain was brutal, wrapped in eternal blizzards and snowstorms; the wind alone could chill bone.
Rivera slipped into her outfit: a crimson, silk-lined coat, fur-trimmed boots rising to her knees. On the right shoulder, the Dalmenton symbol lay proudly. The hood framed her face like a crown of flame.
She looked warm, radiant… almost regal. She was a fire princess walking into winter.
"You look beautiful, sweetheart," Rose proudly said as she adjusted the hood.
Squeak. Blitz chimed in.
Blitz thought she was dazzling, shining brighter than any jewel he had ever seen.
Rivera smiled softly. "Thanks, Mom. Thanks, Blitz."
Rose asked her to sit down and started to slowly fix her hair.
Alvin sat on the couch nearby with Blitz resting beside him.
"Father," Rivera said, respectfully, his voice low as Rose combed her hair. "About… the Mana Disruption Dust… have you figured out who did it?"
Alvin sighed hard, his face darkening. "No… still nothing."
He leaned back slightly, eyes keen. "Whoever did this has to be high up in the family, and highly skilled. The guilty party probably bears a grudge against me because I can't think of any other reason someone would go this far."
Rivera's brows knitted.
"We're still investigating," Alvin continued. "But nothing concrete has surfaced yet."
He paused, his tone growing grim. "Though… word of you summoning a rabbit prey beast has spread throughout the family and across the kingdom. They won't insult you openly. But behind your back…"