Skylor sat cross-legged on the ground. Closing her eyes she focused on taking deep, even breaths. The sound reverberated in the empty training room. Skylor's eyes snapped open and she mentally reached for out with Amber.
Her body shot upward, nearly crashing into the ceiling. Biting back an unprincess-like curse, Skylor reflexively brought up her arms to block her face, but in doing so she let go of Gravity. Natural gravity was quick to regain control.
A strangled yelp tore from Skylor's mouth just before she crashed to the mat. She lay stunned, fighting to get air back into her lungs. Several long seconds later she struggled to a sitting position. 'Note to self: Gravity is fickle.'
And that was why she trained alone when she gained a new Element. The last thing she needed was to unintentionally hurt someone... and it decreased the witnesses to her less than graceful attempts at wielding.
Closing her eyes, Skylor imagined herself gently cupping Gravity in her hands. Then, with another deep breath, she called for the Element. A slight breeze pushed her hair. Skylor tentatively opened her eyes. She was floating two feet above the floor. Her hold on Gravity wavered and Skylor plopped to the mat, but this time with a broad smile on her face.
Skylor continued to experiment with Gravity for the next couple hours. By the time a knock came on the door Skylor was able to hold herself stationary off the ground for nearly five minutes, and just over one minute when she bobbed up and down to various heights. She lay on the ground for another moment but the knock came again, more insistent. Groaning internally Skylor shakily rose to her feet. Her knees almost buckled but Skylor caught herself against the wall. 'I forgot how tiring learning a new Element was.' And she had four more to begin mastering- five when Chen took his ban off Skylor practicing Earth.
She swung the door open to see one of her maids. "Yes, Pixal?"
"Your Highness," Pixal hurried to curtsey, "I was sent to tell you the midday meal will be held in the royal dining room."
Which meant she and Chen would be eating with some of the guests- and that Skylor needed to make herself presentable. "Thank you." She turned to take one more drink of water and when she faced the door again she found Pixal looking around the room, almost expectantly. "Did you have another message you needed to deliver?"
Pixal's eyes widened. "No Highness. It's just, usually you're not training by yourself."
"He wouldn't be of much help with today's lesson, so I gave Captain Zane the morning off."
"I see."
Skylor raised an eyebrow. Was that disappointment in Pixal's voice? Pixal noticed Skylor's look and a light pink dusted her cheeks.
She hastily dropped into another curtsey. "If you'll excuse me, I must return to my chores."
Skylor nodded and Pixal hurried away. Letting out a small chuckle, Skylor gathered the rest of her training gear and began the trek to her room. She had noticed it was usually Pixal who was sent to end the morning spars. Apparently it had not been merely happenstance. Given Zane's warm (well as warm as Skylor had ever seen Zane) reception of her at the door earlier this week, Skylor suspected the feelings might be mutual. 'This should be fun.' Just because Skylor hadn't had any luck in her own love life didn't mean she would fault others for their success.
The walk to her room was largely uneventful. Most of their guests had left over the past two days and the remaining stragglers were set to depart that afternoon. While her party had been a hit, Skylor was glad for the pace to return to normal in the palace- or as normal as it ever was.
.
Skylor let the plastic smile fall from her face as she left the dining room. How Sir Bolobo had kept up such a long winded, one-sided conversation about desert plants was impressive- in a please get me out of here kind of way. Sadly Misako had been seated at the other end of the table, and appeared to fare much more amiably with Lord Griffin's company. Rubbing her temples, Skylor left the bustling room behind in search of somewhere quiet to regather her thoughts. Her steps took her to the library where it was sure to be quiet.
The large room glowed in a golden sheen as the sun streamed through the many vaulted windows. Stuffed shelves held numerous tomes filled with anything from botanical research to fairy tales to historical records. Skylor took a deep breath, the smell of parchment, ink, and wood wrapping around her like a blanket.
Wandering through the book cases Skylor made her way to her favorite table. Situated in the back corner, this particular table offered a measure of privacy- a place to think. When she rounded the corner she stopped short in surprise.
Prince Cole sat at the table, a rather large book lay open in his hands. Other than an blacked haired Ouroboran guard- that Skylor vaguely recognized- who stood at an unobtrusive distance, the prince was alone. He flipped the page, a small frown on his face
Getting over her surprise, Skylor drew close to the table. "You don't like what you're reading?" Cole shook his head, not even looking up as he continued to read whatever was written on the page. "May I ask why not?"
"I don't- I don't understand..." Cole's voice trailed off and he seemed to realize who he was speaking to. He shot upright out of his chair. "Sorry Your Highness, I was lost in thought."
Skylor waved away his worry and sat in a vacant chair while Cole returned to his seat. "It's okay. I've done the same during some of my studies. What are you reading?" Cole slid the book to Skylor. "Elemental Masters Through the Ages? I can see how that would be a dry read."
"No, it's not that..." Cole trailed off, flexing his hands. "I- this account is true?"
"As far as we know. There are several Elements that haven't been tracked well through time."
"But these- these powers are well known? They're an established way of life here?" Cole's voice cracked, in a desperate way Skylor thought.
Instead of answering, Skylor focused on Smoke. Her entire form flickered and she phased her arms through the table. Cole scrambled backwards with a yelp, nearly falling to the ground.
Skylor returned her body's composition to normal, trying hard to hide the smirk tugging at her mouth as Cole rightened himself. "I guess they don't have many Elementals in Trerian?"
"You could say that..." Cole fidgeted in his chair. "If anything, anyone who displays any... abnormal tendencies is believed to be consorting with black magic."
"Just like that? That's horrible!"
Cole shrugged. "That's just the way it's done at home."
Skylor gave an unladylike scoff. "Just because it's what's done, doesn't mean it's what should be done. Elemental powers are passed down from generation to generation, just as hair or eye color is. While I can't speak for all the phenomenon that takes place in the world, those who wield the Elements are most certainly not black witches or warlocks- unless they choose to study it in addition to their Elemental craft."
"It- it comes from a parent?"
"Usually. I inherited Amber from my mother. However there are instances where a Master passes away without offspring. The details are hazy but either they are able to pass their Element to someone before they die, or the Element attaches to a new bloodline, because in all the years of Ninjago, only Creation and Destruction have completely ceased to exist among the people."
Cole remained silent, his eyes wide. Something Skylor couldn't decipher flashed in them.
"Are you okay?"
"I- I don't know... I think-I think I might-"
"Princess Skylor, Prince Cole?" Skylor and Cole both jumped. Neither had noticed Chamille walking to their table. "My apologies Highnesses. I didn't realize my presence was that terrifying."
Groaning, Skylor turned to her friend. "We didn't hear you is all."
Chamille raised an eyebrow and Skylor rolled her eyes. "I see. Well I am sorry for interrupting but I was told that King Chen has gathered several notable scholars in his personal meeting room to discuss Prince Cole and Trerian's predicament." Cole perked up at Chamille's words. "He apologizes it's taken this long for the meeting to be called."
"He has no reason to be sorry. I did show up unexpectedly."
Skylor rose, intending to lead Cole there herself, but Chamille caught her arm. "I'm sorry but there is another matter your father asks you to attend to."
"But-"
Chamille grimaced. "The King was adamant. Morro will take Prince Cole to the meeting while I will escort you."
Frowning, Skylor could only nod. A direct order from Chen was not only an order from her father, but also an order from her king.
Cole seemed to understand. Being a fellow royal he had most certainly experienced the same. He turned and gave Skylor a small bow. "Thank you for your help Princess. I have much to think over. Though perhaps we could continue our conversation at a more convenient time?"
"After the evening meal I plan to return here to brush up on my knowledge of Ouroboron law."
Nodding, Cole rose. "Assuming I am able, I'll meet you back here this evening."
Before Skylor could respond, Chamille gestured to Morro. He joined the group and Chamille gave him the king's instructions. Promptly Morro escorted Cole from the room. Skylor watched them go with a frown on her face.
Last week Chen had wanted Skylor to confirm Cole was a primary Elemental, and now he didn't want her at the meeting where they were probably going to explain to Cole what that meant? There were many times Skylor didn't understand her father's choices, but this time was taking the cake.
"And what did Father want me doing rather than participating in an important meeting with a foreign dignitary?"
"Sarcasm does not look good on you, Princess."
Skylor sighed. "Sorry. I know it's not your fault, though the question still stands."
"If you'll follow me."
"Chamille!"
"Sorry. We're heading to the stables."
'I don't see how anything in the stables is more important than the meeting with Cole.' Skylor thought sourly. But she kept any further complaints to herself. Chamille seemed to pick up on Skylor's unsaid frustration and didn't try to engage Skylor in conversation as they walked.
They emerged outside into the bright afternoon sun. The stables were set behind the palace. A covered walkway stretched between the two buildings. As Skylor approached the barn she saw a carriage prepared.
"Chamille, what's going on?"
"Sorry dear," A new voice cut in, "I had asked to be the one to explain to you."
Skylor spun to face Misako. "My Lady! I must admit I am a bit lost as to what is going on here."
"Since I plan on staying in the capitol city for now, I spoke with your father about ways I can be of service. After some discussion it was decided that a fresh set of eyes on the infrastructure of the markets and shipyard could be beneficial. So I've asked that you be the one to show me the areas, since you are familiar with how they are run. The King granted me clearance today since he is engaged in other projects."
As far as excuses went this was a pretty good one, but Skylor suspicion of Chen's motives remained. Still, extended time with Misako was a gift that Skylor didn't plan to waste. With a growing smile Skylor joined Misako in the carriage. To her surprise Chamille didn't climb in, but instead waved to them as a footman closed the door.
"Did you have anything in particular in mind that you wanted to address?"
"I have a few things that I've been mulling over, but I won't really know until after I see what is currently in use."
Skylor nodded and their conversation drifted to other topics. The trip to the docks flew by in a blink and Skylor nearly lurched with surprise when the carriage came to a halt.
"It seems we've arrived."
Smoothing out her dress, Skylor exited the carriage to the busy road. Four guards, two before and two behind, fell into step with the women and they began to make their way down the road.
Booths and shops lined the street. People crowded together in the open air, though a respectful distance had appeared between the people and Skylor's entourage. Ships lined the harbor as far as the eye could see with goods of all kinds coming down the gangways.
"Most of our commerce is centered here to make it easier on the merchants. Different guilds are housed in those buildings," Skylor gestured to a row of stone structures a few blocks from the docks, "and they help mitigate the various goods that come into port."
Skylor suddenly bristled. Though she knew as the princess many people would be watching her, she could feel someone's eyes on her in what she could only describe as a 'heavy' way. She looked around but there were too many people to determine where the weighted gaze was coming from. Moving from the people to the booths Skylor continued her visual inspection. One booth, set back in the shadow of its adjacent building, caught her eye but it looked abandoned. Shaking her head Skylor continued to show Misako the details that made up the port.
By the time Skylor finished her exhaustive tour Misako had more than enough ideas to start developing. The ride back to the palace was spent discussing how one aspect might benefit areas without causing upheaval to the statues that were already in place. Though this project was Misako's, Skylor still felt a rush of pride at being able to help brainstorm ways to better help her people. It felt a lot more productive than hosting nobles at the palace. The two continued their conversation through the afternoon and Skylor was surprised to look out the window and see the sky turning a brilliant red.
"I'm so sorry Misako I hadn't realized how late it had gotten."
Misako smiled. "I hadn't either. I've kept you for long enough dear. I'm sure you have other things you planned on attending to today."
"Actually there wasn't much, but I did promise Prince Cole I'd meet him back in the library this evening."
"Oh?"
Skylor couldn't help but roll her eyes. "It's nothing like that." Skylor wasn't sure how much Misako knew about Cole's Elemental powers, or how much Chen wanted confirmed, so she chose her words carefully. "He came seeking information about the Elemental Masters and since I am one, and am well versed in our history, I offered to discuss it more with him. He had a meeting with Father's scholars today though, so I'm not sure if there will be any further questions he needs answered."
A fond smile grew over Misako's face. "Garmadon always told me his family was said to be descended from the First Elemental Master. He said there were whispers of power unlike any other that was there, waiting for the right descendant to resume the mantle. I know he secretly hoped it would manifest in his lifetime, but..." Misako trailed off. Skylor didn't know how to respond, so she opted for a gentle hug. That snapped Misako out of her memories. "Go on. I hope the answers that are needed come to you both."
On her way to the library Skylor mused over Misako's parting words. She hadn't thought that she was one in need of answers, at least not that Cole could supply, but maybe Misako wasn't referring to questions about the Elements. Mentally shrugging Skylor wove between the bookshelves until the table came into view. To her disappointment Cole wasn't there.
'Are they still in the meeting? Has Cole come and gone? Or did he forget?' Though Skylor couldn't fault him if indeed he forgot since she herself nearly had. Still, Cole didn't seem to be one to take his word lightly. 'He might show up.' So Skylor pulled out a book and settled into her favorite chair.
She tried to focus, she really did, but all the words blurred together on the pages as Skylor constantly glanced up at any noise to see if it was Cole. The light in the room dimmed with the setting sun and Skylor busied herself lighting a couple candles before returning to her seat. When her candle had burned away three-fourths the wick, she finally admitted to herself that Cole wasn't coming back to the library. Somewhat peeved she left the library.
'What happened?' Granted it was plausible the meeting was still in session since she'd not seen Chen all day, but she couldn't imagine her father being in a meeting lasting this long. Despite being the king, his patience was not particularly notable. But where were they?
The palace felt eerily silent. Shivering Skylor called on Smoke and teleported to her room. Though midnight had come and gone, Skylor tossed and turned in her bed. Something felt off, though she couldn't put a name to what or why.
It was a long night.
.
The next morning Skylor woke with a raging headache. 'Oh, ow.' She rubbed her head, grimacing as stabs of pain assaulted her temples. 'Okay. Not training this morning.' Groaning Skylor forced herself out of bed. No breakfast tray awaited her and Skylor realized it must have been earlier than she initially thought. 'Guess I'm eating in the kitchens this morning.'
After a quick meal of muffins and fruit Skylor decided to see if Cole was up. It might not have been completely in keeping with the general rules of propriety to visit the wing where he and his men were staying, but Skylor's curiosity was running too high to let the matter wait any longer. Yet when she arrived at the rooms housing the Trerians the doors were open, the beds stripped, and not a person was in sight. 'Perhaps the staff is doing all of their laundry at once?' Though plausible, Skylor highly doubted it was likely. She continued to wander the halls, but only the occasional staff member passed her by.
Eventually she saw Clouse walking in the direction of Chen's office. Skylor had little doubt Clouse had been present in the meeting yesterday, but she knew the man wouldn't give her any details about it. Still he stayed freakishly informed on most of the palace inhabitants' comings and goings so he would be a good source of information as to where the Trerians went.
"Clouse!" He continued on his way, giving no sign he'd heard Skylor's call. Ditching decorum Skylor pulled Sound into her voice. "Clouse!" He and anyone within a hundred yards heard her that time. The man turned, his nose curling slightly.
"Yes, Your Highness?"
"Where is everyone?"
Clouse raised an unimpressed eyebrow. "I was under the impression you were aware all the guests- sans Misako- left yesterday."
Taking a deep breath, Skylor ignored the bite in Clouse's words. "I know the rest of the nobles planned on leaving yesterday. To be more specific I should ask, where is Prince Cole and his retinue?"
Clouse resumed his walk. "He also left yesterday."
That froze Skylor in place. "Prince Cole left?"
Clouse continued walking. "Was I not clear?"
Gritting her teeth Skylor matched her pace once more with Clouse. "I was not told he'd be leaving so suddenly. As one royal to another, protocol dictates I partake in his sendoff."
"He obtained what he needed from our scholars and saw no reason to remain here any longer."
Skylor didn't want to admit how deep that sentence struck her. Though her interaction with the prince had been limited, she thought there had been an amiable bond between them. Enough of one that would warrant a proper goodbye at the very least and a discussion about his Element at best.
"I see." It was a total lie but Clouse didn't need to know that. "Thank you for informing me."
"Princess." With a barely perceptible head nod Clouse swept off leaving Skylor behind.
Frowning Skylor drifted toward the courtyard. Maybe the stable hands would know more. But to her disappointment everyone she talked to told a similar story- when they went to bed the Trerian horses were in the barn, but all were gone come morning. 'How did no one hear anything?' Even Chamille, who prided herself in keeping in touch with all the palace gossip, claimed ignorance in the matter. That left one person left to ask but, though she searched all morning, Chen was nowhere to be found.
'This is ridiculous!' Skylor knew the matter shouldn't bother her as much as it did, but something just felt off about the whole thing. Returning to her room Skylor stared out her window. From the second story she could see the tops of buildings over the large wall lining the palace grounds. 'There is another way...'
She didn't have any required appearance that she knew of for the rest of the day and, given her training regimine, it was no longer strange if Skylor disappeared for long periods of time. Skylor's stomach immediately clenched at the thought while her mind continued to run with the idea. 'It would also be a good way to field test Gravity...' Not to mention reckless, stupid, and unbecoming for the Princess and Heir to the throne. Yet that same feeling that screamed something was wrong seemed to pull her toward the window. 'I am so going to regret this.'
Only if she got caught.
Before Skylor's rational side could talk her out of her idea, she changed into a clean set of her training apparel. The leather jerkin and split skirt over leggings would draw much less attention than anything else in her closet. A brown scarf would serve both as protection from the sun, and from prying eyes. Skylor was not so naive to think there wouldn't be those in the city who would take advantage of a woman traveling alone, let alone if they found out she was the princess. The knife strapped to her belt might deter some of them.
Using Smoke Skylor teleported to the ground outside her window. She kept her appearance hazy in an attempt to keep herself indistinguishable from anyone who might glance her way. When she reached the wall Skylor stopped and looked up. The wall rose nearly fifteen feet (4.6m) above her, a good six feet higher than the ceiling in the training room. Taking a deep breath Skylor dropped Smoke and called to Gravity. She shot upward, wobbling unsteadily the whole way, but she managed to clear the wall without smacking into it. Her descent was a touch too fast and Skylor had to tuck into a roll to avoid any damage to her legs.
Not very pretty but it got the job done. Dusting off her clothes, Skylor hurried away from the wall before a guard got too close. From there Skylor slipped into the streets.
Whatever the unease was that hung over Skylor appeared to have spread to the general populous as well. Though the roads were still full of people, most were going about their business with their heads down. Whispers Skylor didn't quite understand circled around her and she saw many people casting suspicious looks to those around them. Shoving down her worries, Skylor made her way to the western market.
Even if Cole had been supplied by the palace storehouses he would still have to travel this route to go home. Someone must have seen something. Pretending to browse the booths Skylor tried to gauge the willingness of those around her to engage in conversation. Given the worry that hung over the market like a cloud she wasn't that hopeful, but Skylor hadn't come all this way for nothing.
The first two merchants she tried were friendly enough, but as soon as Skylor began to ask about the Elemental Masters their demeanor changed completely and they all but told Skylor to move on. After the third woman literally shoved Skylor away, she became discouraged.
The crowd swelled suddenly before closing around her. Skylor bristled at the close contact. Other than for sparring purposes most people gave her a wide berth, and being around so many people did have an oddly suffocating feeling to it. Skylor was just about to consider using Smoke again when someone's hand brushed hers.
Skylor's vision went red and she clenched her jaw to keep from screaming. It felt like she had just stuck her arm in the fireplace but her whole body felt hot, like she had spontaneously contracted a fever. Her knees wobbled and Skylor had to grab hold of the nearest wooden post to keep from falling over. Indistinct words filtered in and it took several moments to realize someone was talking to her.
"-lady, hey lady what gives?"
Skylor blinked owlishly and looked around. The merchant who's booth she'd just used as support glared at her, his large hands curling into fists. Ignoring him for the moment, Skylor looked behind her to see what- or who- had caused such a reaction. However with the crowd moving and swarming it was impossible to know what just happened. It almost felt like her Amber had been activated, but that was impossible... and without knowing the Element- if in fact in the extreme off chance that was an Element- Skylor couldn't call it to manifest.
"Seriously lady. If you're not buying, get out of here!"
The man's throaty voice snapped Skylor back to the booth. "I-" Her voice cracked and Skylor cleared her throat, "I'm sorry, sir. I'm not sure what came over me."
"Well take care of it somewhere else. I don't need you ruining my business."
A few of the nearest passersby shot curious glances in their direction. One brown-haired man who'd been looking at the table hurriedly backed away.
Skylor tiredly shook her head. "I'm sorry. It was an accident. Have a good day."
She turned to walk away when the man's deep voice suddenly shouted, "Stop right there thief!" Skylor ignored him and continued ton her way. She felt movement behind her right before the man caught her wrist and swung her around.
"How dare you steal from me!"
Frozen in shock Skylor could only stare up at the red-faced man, gaping. "I'm sorry. What?"
