Ju-Long Lei: Chapter Thirty-Five
Date sent Septembre 9th
Lei
It is great you managed to see him! But unfortunately he is in such a state. But once he is better I need him here. He will be protected against those who want him enslaved or dead. But if he requires anything… Do it! Please… There is so much at stake right now. More than what you can imagine.
But a change of subject it's time to tell you about the family. Your father convinced me it's not fair to keep you in the dark. I am so sorry… It was not right for me to do such a thing...
After the political match debacle and festival. Chin's betrothed Shu Lan has arrived at Lan-Se. She is very smart and a terrific fighter. Not as pretty as her father proclaimed... But she knows how to command authority even just by standing still. A real warrior woman! I really like her. Chin is being reprehensive, but he has eased with much convincing from her. They have had many private discussions. He is trying to get to know her now. After all, it is his duty as future emperor. A wedding date has not yet been set and I will say why as you read down.
Ning and Tao are going splendidly. It's actually rather sweet. Ning was harsh to him at first as you can imagine. The Sazan dinner was interesting. At least that night she let him speak to her and had a conversation. You know what she's like… Wanting the most handsome man and I gave her as she put it… A human weasel. But watching them in the gardens yesterday they really have grown as friends. You see Lei this why you never believe in rumours about people! I knew those were never true and knew that he is actually a sweet kid. He will treat her with respect and kindness.
Cheng in the meantime is being the most stubborn. He has headed south to Mobushi to meet his bride. Your father has gone with him. Discussions there will be had. I fear the south is becoming too dangerous for the northerners. But we cannot be afraid to go south. We recently had reports of southerner's trying to block our trade routes. If they are bandits, they will be dealt with. If they are rebels, we will be closer to civil war.
That is part of the reason why Fen has not left for Unmei. I promised Sazan that he will have a child of mine by oath. But I didn't promise that they would have to live there. At the moment we are at a stalemate. Sazan obviously refuses to bring his son and I refuse to let Fen go. Cannot risk her to become a hostage. Even with Okimi and her mother vowing to protect her. Sazan remains here in the palace for now. Which is exactly where I want him to be. I noted him to advisors under suspicious grounds. But there are also talks of the southerners protesting this… I'm afraid a civil war will be inevitable at this rate. But we cannot falter… We must not. It is not our way!
But I fear that we have kept to ourselves for so long. We will have no allies from different nations. Which is why I need our man! He has knowledge and experience of the full world. We need outside allies… Do what you must.
But I can imagine who you're thinking of. Zheroh still remains here. He is protecting Fen as he should. I saw him cooking with Fen a few days ago. Like what you used to do with Fen… I never liked it when you did that. It's a servant's job to cook. But alas she enjoyed it. And she is training for combat more than ever. I had to command her to eat her dinner because she just wants to train. She knows what's coming… And I haven't told her much. Hard to think that she is an eight-year-old girl.
With all of that. Do what you must my son. If he asks you to do anything do it. He is a good man… Please bring him here.
Love Your Mother.
I placed the letter onto the table and covered my face with my hands. Breathe in… Breathe out… So much has happened while I was gone. Mother must be desperate if she needs outside allies. But this probably because she already told me that Sazan has previously become allies with the Black Draconium Empire. That's how all of this mess began… She turned away the Gold Royal family because the Black Draconium Empire loomed over us for war. We would have been dragged in and we don't usually join other countries wars. She did what was needed at the time. If Sazan bought the Black Empire in the whole Blue Empire would not have liked it and cast a very bad light onto Sazan. In a way I think mother wish for that to happen… The decision to send the exiled royals must have hurt mother though… Sounds like she regrets that move. If we went to war at that time and helped the exiled Emperor and Empress. The world would be vastly different today. Would we have won? We will never know…
I walk into the embassy meeting Chamber where I see Shango and Ajanta having a polite conversation. They smile at me and greet with usual your highness and bow.
"Things are very serious at home." I sit across Shango. As he nods in agreement. I told him everything even about Stein. Even though I shouldn't of. I needed someone to talk to. After all, he is a ninety-five, what harm can he do? He also sounded shocked as soon as I said Stein's name.
I grab a few slices of potato cakes. "I have no idea how to get Stein home. Mother needs him so badly… But even then I don't fully understand why. Isn't he just going to cause more problems?"
Shango chuckles as I complain to him. "Stein is not just powerful by status. He is also very powerful by nature. Gold Priests are known to be powerful for a reason. They can do draconium magic like no other. Heal, shields, summon, destructive powers, and much more. They helped create the City of Loan. They also help council the country leaders like ours. I have met many gold priests over the years. Everyone knows that their country priesthoods can never compare… "
"Wait! Shango! Are actually saying the Gold Priesthood is BETTER than ours?! Have you not seen our dragons and humans in our convent? Have you seen the draconium magic they teach our family?"
Shango chuckles again. "To be truthful I am. And your mother knows that too! That's why she wants him so badly! Gold Draconium can also transform into different energies. I've seen it. Once upon a time, Gold priests were not so secretive with their identities. They used to help those who are in need. They only kept secrets about how they achieved such powers and their private business. Until they were all hunted down by Shadow Priests and the League of Eight. I can imagine all the priesthood sects in the world-changing their ways."
"Yes, they were strong until then… They were defeated!" I replied.
"By the Black Empire… Every nation has feared that Empire once they took the City of Loan. But by looking at your letters from your mother she knows the Shadow Emperor will make his move. She knows they're involved with Sazan Jona. The Black Empire wants dominion over everyone. It's been no secret. It's why the nation was created in the first place. Their ancient scriptures even have it written. Even with their best efforts to get better. The old times now being called the quiet years. Hatred, jealousy and spite once again influences that Empire. She knows there is a bigger game at play. So she is going to try and play that game as well."
I lie back and have a think. Bringing Stein home is easily a declaration for war. But not really for Unmei. But to the Black Empire. They are a bigger threat. As I sat there quietly I hear a knock on the door. Ajanta gets up to check. She walks back in with a special envelope sealed. It has the wax sigil of the mountain on it. I open it hastily as it's probably Stein.
Date Sent Septembre 10th
I am glad that you stayed for my behest. I knew we would have to meet again. I have given word to your mother of the situation and I just got her reply. Even though we had no choice but to be vague with each other. I would need us to meet again. Today would be best! But please be urgent. You can head up to the palace. Queen Hara is busy with her own business but she has allowed me to let you in.
No signature. I quickly ordered Azalea to prepare and before I knew it Ponderrah and I are heading over the palace. The guards let us in no problems and I was guided over to a meeting room. A large rectangle stone table stretches across the room. There is no one in here… I sit on one of the fancier sculptured stone chairs. No matter how long I'll probably live here. I will never get used to the stone furniture.
As I sat around wandering and looking at the tapestry of a previous human king. I hear the doors open. I turn around and I see Stein! He looks much different! What a difference time can make. He looks much his age and colour has started to come back to his hair and eyes. His smile is much more confident. He isn't even using a walking stick anymore. But there is still much weakness as he was walking. Trying his best to hide it. He is still exhausted…
"Welcome back Prince Lei. I appreciate that you came as quickly as you could." Bowing as he then takes a seat across from me. We are waiting for a few others. As we waited I see people and dragons come in. I recognize them… They are the Red priests who arrived when I left last time. This time they have their dragons accompanying them. One of the dragons… Is interesting. He is very much a joker as he continuously laughs. Especially if it's his own joke.
Stein stands up and I stand up.
"Your highness this is Master Kenneth and his apprentice Lexiana. Standing behind them are their dragons Pyromancer and Iympetus."
"How do you do?" Iympetus proudly says in the human tongue. I smiled and said I am well. Even though emotionally I'm really not… But I like seeing dragons speaking human tongue. Kenneth and Lexiana bow in respect. "Hello, your highness." They say in unison.
"Remember Prince Leeeeei. I am a very important dragon!" As Iympetus makes himself comfortable sitting behind Lexiana. He is jumpy and happy… Does he know his country is at war?
"Yes, Iymp I'm sure you are! Keep rubbing it in! And that is not how you speak to royalty. Forgive him, your highness." As Lexiana turns around scratches his nuzzle. And he chuckles. I have never seen such a happy go lucky dragon… Like ever… I nod in reply as she happily scratches his nose.
Soon behind them, I see a man clearly from Mille Voix. Tall and slender. Fancy Turquoise clothes. But nothing over the top like what they usually wear. Lack of make-up. His bright pink hair stands out. It is so bright. Anyone from Mille Voix knowing they looked like that would die of embarrassment… I applaud him. Good for him. He looks overtired like he can sleep almost anywhere. I will bet all of my family's wealth that it's because they only have stone beds.
"Prince Lei this is Constant. He was an ambassador of Mille Voix and senator in the City of Loan. Constant this is Prince Lei."
Constant has his mouth wide open. "Prince Lei as from the Ju-Long Family? What an unexpected surprise your highness! Lovely to see you in person." He bows gracefully as he looks to Stein.
"You have to be careful of saying the city title Stein. It's Dragon City now. Not the City of Loan. If other ears hear it."
"I know Constant. It's just a matter of getting used to it…" Stein then guides Constant to his seat.
And like that he goes to a seat next to Kenneth. They start making polite conversation. I couldn't hear them but probably questioning as to why I am here.
Soon after Constant a small man and a tall man appear. And boy did my eyes wander to the taller man. He is handsome! Tanned with a few scars here and there. Black hair with blue eyes that I notice have a tinge of purple in them. His muscles are easily seen in his basic clothes. But the way he stands behind the small man he is obviously his guard.
"Your highness this is Mali Piccolo and his servant Aaron."
"Prince Lei? Hello, your highness! What an honour!" Mali shouts excitedly and Aaron bows to me like the others before me. They then take their seats and Mali takes out glass bottle of ale.
As everyone starts to get comfortable. A familiar face appears… Another Prince. It's Prince Murray. I happily smile to greet him as we bow to each other. I was not expecting him to be here… His empire is in the same position as mine. They have no part of Reds war. We have met a few years ago when they travelled to our Empire.
It's refreshing to see someone like me. The younger prince who travels around with family and act as a messenger for the royal court.
"Hello, your highness!" As we both say in unison. I do quickly notice that he sounds exhausted. I see that he has been injured. With light bruises around his face with hollow cheeks. He is not even wearing royal robes. He is wearing Brown Empire attire. Which I admit is not the fanciest of dress. They have their robes made from boar and goat fur. Last I saw Murray he wore slimming light blue robes with a pearl necklace with many pearl hairpins.
"It has been a few years. Surprised to see you here!" I say cheerfully. I really do wonder why is he here? Probably thinking the same as me. Two Princes from different Empires. Who have nothing to do with the war. What is happening? Red Priests, a random little man with armed muscle, Prince from a far-off nation and an ex-senator from Mille Voix.
Montahan soon joins us alone as his daughter and Queen Hara sort out matters in the throne room. We all sit around the table. With many of the people and dragons staring at me. It is an awkward silence… The welcome wagon left quickly. I did not feel welcome. I suppose I should be used to this feeling by now.
"Now everyone that is present. We all know we must keep this secret. This must not become public knowledge." Stein stands up getting everyone's attention. The man certainly commands a presence. But can tell he is still weakened. Trying to hide his pain.
"I hate to break the news Stein but word has spread about you. It is why I am here!" I told him. And he smiles.
"It is not me that I speak off. You are here. Because your mother wanted to know if I was alive. She got her answer. She wants me to travel to Lan-Se yes? But she didn't tell me why." Stein asks sternly.
"I'd much rather not discuss my home politics in front of strangers. But yes, she wants you there. She said she will protect you."
"I see…" Stein strokes his chin. As everyone else remains quiet in the room.
"No offence. But can you really guarantee that your highness?"
I quickly turn around and see it was Mali who spoke. He is judging me and sounds cocky. Not a wise move… His servant Aaron is just sitting there with his arms crossed in silence. He is a handsome man… SNAP OUT OF IT LEI! I immediately think to myself. Distracting myself at an important time.
"Yes, we can guarantee Stein's safety. The only thing I will say. Is that my mother… Feels she must have made a mistake. And she wants to fix that mistake…" I reply with confidence. But ending my sentence in a soft tone.
"I will go to Lan-Se in time. But first, we could use your help with another important matter. We can help each other out." As Stein brings out books and a map.
"Lei. You mother turned me and my charges away when we needed you. But we know why… The Black Empire is a threat to us all. It was only natural to avoid conflict with them. Especially since they caused so much damage. But reading your mothers letter and her effort to send you here… It is a risk I will take. Which is why you're here now."
I look around at everyone as the tension eased. I still don't know what is going on….
"Pardon me, Stein, should we now discuss the urgent matter at hand?" As Mali remarks. "Don't we have a damsel to save?"
Aaron nods and looks as if he is about to rush out of this room.
"A what?" I look at Mali.
"We do!" Constant interjects. "We must plan! We have waited long enough."
"Why can't we just go?" Aaron questions Mali and he smiles back politely.
"We will get there boy! We will get there! Just remain quiet. Rushing will only cause more problems." Mali reassures him tapping his hand. And like that Aaron's demeanour shifts. He remains quiet.
Mali then takes a big drink of ale. As Aaron takes his ale away from him.
"A damsel? A plan? I have no idea what any of you are talking about." I say to Stein. Looking down the table I see a stern eagerness from Aaron.
Kenneth, Pyromax, Iympetus and Lexiana look just as confused as me…
"We have to rescue a young lady named Iolene Summers. Or… By her rightful title Grand Empress Iolene Mariana Laelia Ovideus. Grand leader of City of Loan and Guardian of the Realm."
"WHAT?" Kenneth shouts out. "That's impossible! Laelia and Aelius were killed. Or did David have an unknown child? With an unknown lover? But he remained un-wed till his death. He seemed to be too honourable to have a bastard."
"Laelia was heavy with child when we were guiding her to Aquarius City. We just visited Demir for their help. We were betrayed by Emperor Arman Kaiser. Laelia was badly injured in the fight and with her last strength gave birth to her little daughter... Laelia's last word was her daughters' name." Stein looks down at all of us. Then looking down at me with all seriousness. "If your mother wants to fix up her past mistakes and friendship. You as a Prince with her blood will help us."
I nod in agreement. If I say no to Stein he will not be easy to negotiate with. And I am terrified about what this will bring. I am a Prince, not an errand boy... If this Iolene is a real heir to Dragon-City. Another war is guaranteed unless the Shadow Emperor finds out and he assassinates her quickly. It is as to why Stein does not want anyone knowing about her outside of this room.
"May I ask as to what happened for her to get into trouble?" Kenneth is sitting there with a look judging Murray. As Murray lies back as scoffs at Kenneth.
"We were heading here. When we were attacked by Green Draconium Empire bandits. The leader being named White-Eye. They were weirdly well organized and equipped. Me, Iolene and Iolene's friend servant Eleya were held captive. Iolene managed to make a deal to spare us if she can heal White-Eyes friend. She did heal his friend and they did let us free... However, they kidnapped her. White-Eye liked her healing skills."
"Green Draconium bandits? Are you sure? I heard they have been bandits around the area. Stealing supplies and making trouble for our tired soldiers and travelling merchants. But from the Green Empire? How can they be so far south?" Montahan has clear scepticism of this claim. It is outlandish though... Why would they be so far down south? And how did they get here?
"It is true Prince Montahan. We came across a full-grown Zimadu. Who had green draconium weapons pierced into it. I would probably say they did not last long against it. They are hard to kill the best of times.
"Let's go! What are waiting for? We have waited long enough" Aaron gets up and attempts to walk away. Mali gently tugs on his shirt. I'm surprised how gentle that tug was. And like that Aaron immediately sits down and has a change in expression. First, it was excitement. Now it's serious and sits still like a stone. As I heard Aaron speak, I did notice a unique accent. I wonder where he is from?
"Where were you attacked?" Kenneth with complete seriousness. Looking at his apprentice she seems to have gained his serious face. There is no doubt those two are close. But as I looked at them. What would the Red Empire think of this? Will they support the Gold Empire? Red and other Empires has always been more upfront about their allies ties with other nations. Unlike us. We have always been on our own... More isolated in many ways. We prefer to keep to ourselves and for good reason.
"We were not far from the north from the front gate. Travelling on the South East path. Many of our soldiers and dragons were killed. But to my relief some of them survived. We were taken to an abandoned fort that is hidden further in the mountain ranges. We were trapped for just over a week. Eleya was forced to cook and I starved in the dungeon."
"Well, it's a start. We can begin at the carriage site and then make our way to the fort. Hopefully there will be clues as to where they will be heading. We will be travelling as a group. We will not have anything that anyone can easily distinguish royal family heritage." Stein looks down at the maps. "The mountain ranges here have many empty forts leftover from the rebellion. They are nothing like ancient temples of old in other nations. So, there won't be any unique dangers that priests are only familiar with. But have no doubts there will always be a danger."
We all nod in agreement. As we started to discuss our next subject Montahans Steward opens the door and runs straight to Montahan. He quickly stands up as we all stand up.
"EVERYONE TO THE THRONE ROOM NOW!" Montahan rushes out with his steward. We all follow as there is a large gathering in the throne room. Queen Hara looks down at all of us. She looks stoic as ever along with the princess.
The large dragon Queen takes a large breath in. "Today my people... History has been made. Emperor Arman Kaiser has been declared dead!"
Everyone in the throne room rejoices the news! The war for them! It's over! I need to write to mother immediately! The quiet city changes into bursts of excitement and dancing. Happiness all around! I won't lie seeing this made me happy! The war has been going on for five years. But as I looked at the Queen she did not look happy... Something is wrong. Very wrong. She hasn't finished yet...
"SILENCE!" She roars with impatience. "I am not done yet!" She then looks down at us. Making sure that everyone in this room has their full attention.
"We did not win this war. Emperor Arman Kaiser was killed by the Shadow Emperor and his followers."
"WHAT!?" I shouted out. As I looked around at everyone. Stein, Mali and Aaron standing next to each other side by side. Stein looked worried even frightened... Mali also looking pale-faced. They must have had a feeling. The Shadow Emperor gave Stein hell... His home was usurped in an almost similar fashion.
This also a puzzling decision made by the Shadow Emperor. No Empire would want to trust them now. Green was their ally. Now they have Light Green, Gold and now Green.
Not only that... A hidden Empress has been kidnapped and going North straight into the enemy's hands. She would need to be rescued and fast!
I looked around the throne room again. And it no longer a happy party. But fear now controls this room... What must Empress Vatra be thinking? Her revenge will be unfulfilled. What will these empires do now? Will they fight to take it? Their resources must be exhausted by now.
Queen Hara then continues with her speech. "Both of ours and reds armies are staying put for now. The Shadow Emperor has remained quiet in this matter. Our armies will still be in force. Thank you all may go back to your business." And with large slow motions, the Queen moves into another large meeting chamber. As everyone is still distracted by the news. The group follows soon after and I decided to try my luck and follow. Her weight is so heavy each step causes the ground to shake. Mali almost lost his footing a few times.
The large dragon queen lies down on a stone chair. Many other associates and nobles surround the room. But with a soft command, she asks the majority of them to leave. Only the group I was with along with generals and Politian's remain. The Queen's royal court.
Refreshing to see many dragons who hold high positions of power.
We all stand there in silence.
The queen remains composed and looks down at us. "The Green Empire has been failing for a long time… They were losing the war. It was reported that Emperor Arman Kaiser did something to rub the Shadow Emperor the wrong way. I don't believe that for a moment… The Shadow Emperor had an opportunity of weakness and he took it. Emperor Arman Kaiser was a brutish man. But he would not have been so stupid to do that. His grudge was with his ancient rivals."
A man in brown and red robes walks over and bows to the queen and princess. The queen in concern asks. "Any news of what happened to the Kaiser royal family?"
"We are not sure of what happened to them. Had no reports. Your majesty." He replies. The Queen shakes her head.
"I have heard nothing from Empress Vatra. I have only just been reported this morning by my messenger. She probably wont hear about it for a while."
She looks down. "That is all my subjects you may leave except." As she mentions everyone from the group this morning to remain here including me.
Once everyone left. We all stand there in front of the queen in a row.
"The girl needs to be found. She is a key to create a force against the Shadow Empire. You will leave tomorrow morning the latest. I am sure you all got to know each other. From the morning meeting. Stein by my orders you will remain here... You are still far too weak to fight, and we cannot risk you. You are safest here. " The Queen used a very soft tone to him. Unlike everyone else, where loud voice can cause the floor to shake.
I look at Stein as he looked disappointed, but he remained quiet.
"I wish you all luck in this quest. Be careful all of you." And with a gentle nod, she dismissed us.
I head out of the throne room where I see Azalea and explained to her what is happening. She has been waiting patiently outside the door with many others. Some look like tried to overhear the conversation.
"I'm going with you. Your highness! It is dangerous! For this Stein to ask you such a thing! Put your life in danger like that!" Azalea blatantly annoyed by the sudden mission. I didn't tell her about Iolene. Sworn to secrecy. What the point of keeping a secret if I spill out information as soon as I learn it.
I Look to my right and see the red priests. I am curious about them. As usual for priests, they tend to keep to themselves. They didn't say much during the meeting especially the young woman. She is pretty… Tanned skin. With beautiful black hair tied up into a bun. Like Kenneth, she has dark red eyes. Clearly a person from the red empire.
I walk over to them. " Well, we are certainly up for quite an adventure ahead of us."
Kenneth smiles and excuses himself. He walks over to other nobles discussing food and weapons. Lexiana looks at me and smiles. She has a soft smile. But she is visibly shaken up about the news.
"My country's war is over… I can't believe it. I wanted to fight in it. Now that's not possible… Now everything is uncertain." She has worried look in her eyes.
"I cannot imagine… But hopefully, this can somehow reach a peaceful solution. Give your Empire time to recover. Your country has suffered enough." I say to her and her smile gets larger.
"I hope so, we lost so much… But I fear much trouble will arise. Even more so with our little adventure."
"I'm sorry. But pardon us, your highness. But we must prepare for the journey." Kenneth comes over and Lexiana looks up at him.
I nod as they bow to me. They then take their leave.
Later I spent the day preparing for the long trip ahead. I had no idea how long it will be... Those bandits who have her will be constantly on the move. I would have to leave my royal regalia at the embassy and write a letter to mother. I won't explain about Iolene, but this is a favour from Stein. As I walked through the palace to leave. I see Mali and Aaron talking to each other in the hall.
Mali is a small man which makes me wonder if he is from Suravi. He looks up at Aaron as he tries to speak a language that I barely hear off.
"Excuse me... May I ask what language that is?" I ask politely. As Mali and Aaron bow to me.
"It's Prisshek. The local language of the Orange Empire." As Aaron smiles. The more I looked at his smile. There is much sadness behind it. And as he said orange epire. I can see why.
"Oh! So that explains the accent!" I point and smile. I have read about the language of Dominus Sahara in books. But I don't know the language or actually hear people speak it. Our Dominus Sahara ambassador only speaks dragon tongue. So, he communicates to Shun Shun. Aaron shyly smiles at me as I point at him.
"So, what's it like living in Dominus Sahara. Do they have everyday whipping and hang humans upside down alive to rot?" I am very curious about their nation. We do trade spices with them. But it's not like I see them... I have heard many things. Slavery is legal, their dragon race hates humans, it is forbidden for any human royal family member to go there. I heard our last family member that was sent there. Ju-Long Zhuding was thrown into a snake pit... Apparently, he tried to steal gold. We all know that was a lie... Why would he steal gold when he is from a royal family? So for safety, we leave the Orange matters to our dragons now.
Aaron looked exceedingly uncomfortable as soon as I asked the question. He looks down at Mali as if he is not sure of what to do. It is weird... Something I have noticed. He never leaves Mali's side and he seems to rely on him. He looks down to Mali as if he wants him to speak. It's like as if he has a confidence of a child.
"Sorry, your highness. Forgive Aaron. It is a subject matter he wishes not to discuss..."
"Oh, alright then... I shall see you two tomorrow" I try to keep this more light-hearted. But I know I did the complete opposite. Usually people like my fake happy disposition. But those two aren't like other people.
Aaron and Mali both bow and take their leave.
I rush back to the embassy to prepare for the trip. I am dreading it… I wouldn't mind if I had a royal luxury carriage. But for this trip. I know that won't be happening… I look at Ponderrah. He is standing there in the stable. He is having a miserable time… I regret bringing him here… I sigh and look at him for a while. He is blind and struggles to navigate much of the time. And now I will be heading into unfamiliar territory. It'll be best not to bring him.
His cheeky smile as he tries to hear me out. And pat him gently as I tell him as gently as I could. He was upset… But I know he will understand. He will remain here. He is safe here… Shango and Ajanta can look after him. He squeaks in a sad tone. The other dragons in the stable look at him weirdly as he does. They don't understand him… I kiss Ponderrah on the cheek and head back into the embassy building.
I ordered a steward to go on a mission to find, Basic poor people clothes. If my family were here they would be in shock… Me in worker clothes. My finery and jewelry… Would be stupid to take them with me. I leave them in a box where Shango can seal them in the underground vault.
My steward comes back as we quickly tried on the clothes. Everyone looks at me as they try not to laugh. I look so… Messy. I am now just wearing a shirt with pants… I miss wearing my layers already. I need to keep my hair tied up as it always should.
I should also get a weapon to protect myself. I am not the best fighter in my family. But I can hold my own when needed. I have skills in hand to hand martial arts. A specific fighting style my empire is known for.
I grab a parchment and write my letter to mother explaining everything. I wrap the letter and sealed it. I see my crowdrag and I send it flying away.
Azalea comes up to me with a leather bag.
"Here you go, your highness. You now look like a commoner." She lightly chuckles. I smile at her. I feel like an idiot. But I suppose I will learn something from this experience.
"For this, I have packed a large water bag, ink bottle, paper, quill, dried goat meat an extra pair of clothes. Pants and a top. A journal with a portable inkpot and a quill."
Azalea has done her work. I smile and thank her. I feel like such a fool...
I just want to go home… When I left home I thought it was going to be a short while. A few weeks at most. Now I have no idea how long it will be… I sigh as I think of home. My family, my bed and Zheroh… Oh, I miss Zheroh. Now that he has been gone. I feel like I have no friends… Azalea is nice and all. But I cannot get close to her. As she once told me it is her duty. She doesn't try to make friends with her charges.
I would have preferred Zheroh to be with me…
Night has now fallen and now knowing that war is over. There are some celebrations around that I can hear from the embassy. But not the massive city celebrations you would think after a war ends.
Another dinner of roast goat with potatoes. Could swear it's the only meal I have had since being here… But I will enjoy it. This will probably be last for a long time. I am so anxious about rescuing this girl.
Once dinner is over I write the letter to mother explaining what I am doing. It has been an interesting day to say the least.
Even after a long night of thinking of the unknown. What will mother think of this? A golden heir?
Tossing and turning. My soft pillows from my carriage have flattened. So it is not as soft as it was when I first got here. How can people and dragons sleep like this?
Before I knew it. Azalea is waking me up. Today is the day to leave… I folded my robes and gave them to Shango. He would have to look after them for now. I have to wear… Peasant clothes now. Just for now.
I say farewell to Shango and Ajanta. I then head to the stable to say farewell to Ponderrah. He screams in sadness. But I am heading to an unknown country in war. He is safest here… I don't want him getting hurt.
I kiss him on the head. As I say farewell and stroke his bonemark. I shed a tear for him. I love my dragon and I know he loves me.
"I love you boy! Never forget that!"
He squeaks lovingly. It was so hard to leave him… I have never left him until now.
Azalea hands me the bag she prepared. Then both head up to the palace. When we arrive, I see everyone is ready at the front castle door. Like me they are disguised. Even the red priests are wearing normal clothes. Aaron, however, gets my attention. They have given him new shiny brown armour. Like an actual soldier or bodyguard. He looks excited getting it, must be comfortable than the rags and pads he had previously. Mali and Stein talking business nearby and Mali hugs him when they finish.
Mali and Murray dress in purple robes. They are most formal dressed amongst us. Murray smiles at me.
"Wasn't expecting you to be wearing that your highness." He jokes as he looks around me. "Very good! It will be hopefully safer this way."
"Hopefully..." I retorted.
We all stand around as a group making last preparations for the long road ahead. I say hello to everyone. They all seem to be in a cheery mood. Especially Aaron. He really wants to save this young empress. Lexiana walks over to me in politeness.
"Hello, there your highness." She bows to me and I bow back. Kenneth comes up behind her.
"You must know that we will not be calling you your highness on this trip. As it'll make things dangerous. "
"I understand master priest. Just call me Lei..." I answer back. Now that will be taking some getting used to.
No carriage, no fancy books, no noble guard escort. Except for Azalea who invited herself for good reason. Just a random group of misfits. Constant and Stein walk out of the palace. It looks like they are not coming with us.
"Thank you for everything Constant." As Mali shakes his hand.
"Anything old friend... And good luck. And good luck all of you." As Constant smiles and places his hand on top of Mali's hand.
Stein wishes us luck and watches us intently as we leave.
And before we knew it, we are walking out of Macdan. Walking past the city that now seems to be hustling and bustling. Now that the war has been declared over... For now. We walk through the cave that tells of Macdan's history. I get a good look at the carvings one last time.
And before I knew it, we are back outside underneath the blue sky.