A large crowd gathered before the main balcony of the royal palace. They talked in hushed, worried whispers and shot anxious glances towards the closed doors that hid the room's shadowed recesses. Those who had gathered became silent as the doors finally swung open.
Touya, his mouth set in a slight frown, emerged first. His dark royal robes swayed slightly in the gentle breeze as he moved towards the balustrade. Sakura followed him into the glaring desert sun and gazed down fondly at the assembled people. With his staff in one hand and his priest robes a pristine white, Yukito stepped forward, smiling reassuringly.
Touya glanced quickly at Yukito before focusing on the crowd. "I am aware that many of you are worried due to the recent attacks on our trading caravans and any travelers that leave the vicinity of the palace", Touya began, his voice steady and clear over the quiet audience. "Luckily, only minor injuries have been inflicted and small amounts of food taken so far." He paused, expression hardening.
"There is no need to be anxious. I have already sent several small groups to investigate and pinpoint the source of these crimes. These unwarranted attacks will be stopped before anyone is seriously wounded and any valuable cargo is stolen. When we uncover those guilty, they shall be justly punished." The young king stopped as cries of agreement and murmurs of relief and approval rose from the crowd.
"Great speech, Your Majesty." Yukito whispered encouragingly in Touya's ear. Frowning, Touya whispered back. "Yuki, I told you not to call me that when no one can hear us." Yukito laughed gently before smiling warmly at his friend. "To-ya then."
As Touya sent him one of his trademark smirks, he caught a flash of light at the corner of his vision. Turning instinctively, he managed to dodge the metal projectile that had been shot towards him. His upper arm stung painfully as the weapon left a long, shallow gash across it. Staggering back, Touya stared at the arrow that had lodged into the palace wall, its tip crimson with his blood. If he had been a few seconds slower, the arrow would have pierced his chest.
Below, the crowd erupted into screaming chaos.
