Author's notes: Finally ! I thought it would never come out, sorry for making you all wait. Its official, Izana is now on my list of enemies. That guy is hard to write! On the other hand, I think I hate even more the 30+ pages of homeworks that prevented me from writting when I wanted. Yes, I think I hate more the second one. Well, time to answer the reviews!
Rentozu : Are you trying to make me melt too under all those praises ? You are halfway through succeeding ! How, you have no idea how much I am itching to write the moment the Awakening cast enter the scene. As for the Archduke... You'll see below! And I'm curious to learn what your roomate think of the story after playing Conquest.
TheHolyBlade : Thank you ! I'm glad you like the story and Lora.
Spartastic 4 : Don't die yet ! -Use Great Heal- You have a new chapter to live for !
pt1oef : Thanks as ever for beta-reading ! And yep, siblings bonding is good, hearing about your wife first crush is always an akward moment, and glad that Corrin is as cute as I tried to make her.
Kerrowe : Yes, I wish I could write chapters faster. Thank you. I'm working hard on the actual game events to make them right when the time come. Hope they'll be as good or better as what I do now.
Happy new year : Yeah, you recognized it was about Charlotte ! And oh, you don't even imagine how Lora will feel about the whole retainer thing when she come back. I'll keep Peri personality mostly the same as in the game, but with some little changes on the side of realistic.
Guest : Soon enough, dear blood knight, soon enough you'll be satisfied.
Belonging Kind : "grima nuggs" pffff, I will borrow that one day or another. Oh yes, Lora will not allow Peri or Jakob to just become retainer like that. And for Izana... Check below ! And for the other matter... Yes. They support each other. Hope the new chapter is not too late for your taste !
EDIT: I corrected some things in the chapter, mostly grammar. Might correct more later. Should have slept a little more before proofreading this one.
And with all that said, all of you, enjoy the story ! Leave a review if you liked it or have a critic to share !
The Fiery Queen of Nohr : Part 14
Rumors and tales did not lie. Izumo was indeed the serene land praised by those who came in, yet in a very different way from Notre Sagesse. The latter was a land of few riches, inhabited by folks who mostly lived their own lives, apart from the hermits and philosophers who made that quiet place their home. In a way, almost empty except for the famous Mount Sagesse which took most of the island space. It gave that island aura of mystery despite its poverty. Izumo on the other hand was rich. Fertile soil produced immense forests, vast grass and crop fields where a handful of small villages and towns prospered. Some hills drew the pathways for rivers coming from Hoshido's mountains in the north.
However, there was something more in the air that separated this place from other. Something that Lora had a hard time to describe. The country seemed... alive, but not because of its inhabitants. It was like a light and comfortable fire heat streamed under her feet and around her at all instant. Lora could not find better words than those, but her guess seemed right. Garon told the truth back then: a great power transpired from this place, and she could feel it confusedly. Legends told that the First Dragons, the gods worshiped in this world, came from this land and made their first contact with humans here. Now the queen was convinced that it was more than mere legend.
Going through this land let Lora observe the building style of here was quite different from that of Nohr and closer to those of Hoshido, with a structure entirely made of decorated wood including the roof, rather than stone or cob. The manor of the archduke where they arrived was similar, but with some peculiarities: nesting in the middle of great trees forming a natural jewel case of green contrasting with the white walls of the building, which was as high and massive as a castle. In truth, it only deserved the title of manor because of its obvious lack of any defensive measure, reflecting that it was the center of an ever-peaceful country.
And what a manor it was. Lora rarely had seen a place which seemed dedicated to comfort and leisure, and those two things only. Banquet tables in large enough number to feed an entire regiment. Cushions, sofas, benches in every room, all of velvet and satin. Scented candles, baskets of fresh fruits, mirrors. Sheets of the softest fabric, curtain of the most delicate texture. To Lora, so much luxury approached the obscene. Yet it was nothing compared with its current owner...
''Esteemed guests, I hope you enjoyed your travel... Now come on, let's start the party!'' Joyfully declared the voice in Lora's fresh memory.
Casting the very annoying voice out of her mind, the queen allowed the maids to detach the last piece of her armor before removing her tunic and undergarments. Her little room was somewhat devoid of the luxury which the rest of the manor had. Although its walls were decorated by flower paintings, this made sense in regard to its function: a simple changing room. In a flash of flames Lora put her armor back into her soul, getting yelps of surprise from the maids.
"Continue with your work." Ordered the queen, taking the servants out of their stupor quickly.
Maids of the Nohrian royal family have been used to Lora's powers for a long time, but of course these women of Izumo simply could not have. To scold them would be unjust, thought Lora as they used delicate brushes and oil to scour her whole body. Apparently, it was necessary to be clean for what lied beyond the door at the end of this small room.
Once the cleaning was over, Lora passed through the door, unveiling what had to be the largest bath she had ever seen, surrounded by pillars supporting scented lamps. No, it would be more appropriate to call it a large pond, but a perfectly square one made only for indoor bathing. A lion head sculpture continuously poured water into it on the side, and the mosaic floor represented multiple fishes. How fitting. Approaching the water, Lora slowly reached it with her right hand. Warm. Strange.
''Are you wondering how it is heated?''
Lora turned aside the water to see Garon entering the room from a door parallel to her own entry, wearing nothing but a white loincloth as opposed to her birthday suit. His body was enviable for a man in his fifth decade, with well-build chest, arms and legs, muscles that she rarely had the occasion to admire in full light.
''There does not seem to be a fire to heat here, and I do not sense any magic either.'' Admitted Lora. ''The only place I have ever seen with water as hot as here was the Smoldering Lake, and there was lava underneath the earth. Something I doubt is present in this land without mountain.''
Garon nodded before approaching and extending his own hand toward the water. After an instant, it started to heat, steam then boil before the king stopped to use his power.
''The Dragon Veins warm the earth, which heat the water that is redirected into this pool. To what temperature do you wish your bath, my lady?'' Asked the king with a chivalrous gesture.
''Not enough to put you on fire I hope.'' Retorted Lora before slowly going down the stairs carved into the poolside.
In a way it was like taking warm bath, Lora told herself. A deeper, larger bath, whose water rose well above the usual height, simple as that. Pausing when the water reached above her backside, she estimated that the water would only reach her shoulders. It was good, that water level was manageable to her.
A splash came to her as Garon got into the water himself, passing aside her with a challenging smile. Gritting her teeth Lora moved again to not let herself be overrun by the king, heart pounding in her chest. When the water reached her chest she stopped again, discomfort and hesitation forbidding another step despite the agreeable warmth.
Garon stopped at the center of the pool before Lora, water reaching up his own chest just below the shoulders. He extended a hand, inviting. Taking a small breath and repressing the shaking of her own hand, Lora took it and joined him, water rising and flowing around until it almost reached her chin. She breathed more deeply, trying to be at ease in the middle of the water, fighting the temptation to get out as fast as possible.
Suddenly flashbacks returned: Horrid screeches in the dark, freezing cold in her boots. Pale, deformed spidery bodies with dozens clawed extremities, pushing her into the stagnant water, scratching the metal endlessly as the dirty liquid invaded her nose and mouth...
A strong arm pressing Lora's back, a warm embrace in this equally hot pool.
''I am here. You will not drown. Breath. It will be over soon.'' Gently reassured Garon's muffled voice, holding Lora's trembling body tight and slowly moving.
Struggling against the knot in her throat, Lora clenched her hand inside his, closing her eyes to not see the water all around, focusing on Garon's chest pressing her own. The screeching weakened in her ears, her racing heart slowed down, her throat opened again.
Cold. Cold stone under her feet and buttock, cold stone against her back, and warm hand on her own was the only heat left around. Lora opened her eyes, vision clouded. She was sitting on the side of one of the pillars, away from the pond. Garon was keeling near, still holding her hand. When did he sat her? She vaguely thought, heartbeat coming down to normal speed.
''I... I...'' Panted Lora, unable to sort her words.
''Relax. You need it.''
Following the advice, Lora felt her muscles loosen, head leaning back on the stone. The memory of death drew back into the deepest corner of her mind, her vision getting clearer as her breath became more and more regularly, until her thoughts felt no longer jammed.
Lora crossed the gaze of Garon, his face showing a guilt she has rarely seen in him.
''How do you feel?''
''Better... Thank to you... I lost myself, I should not panic like this...'' Dejectedly stated Lora.
"Shhhhh." Interrupted the king, kissing her hand. ''Do not say such things, love, you know they are not true. Calm down.''
"Yes... yes, it would be good..." Accepted Lora, leaning on the cold pillar.
Garon sat alongside Lora and waved his hand, drawing power from the Dragon Vein to heat the stone and air around, creating a comforting bubble of warmth. They stayed like that for a moment, simply basking in the presence of each other for a while.
''I died of drowning once... Just once, and yet...'' Lora shivered, and it was of no cold. ''I had to pass through the city of Irithyll, but there were too much soldiers around, even for me. I found a way from the bonfire of an abandoned chapel, one passing through the sewer... but… it was not empty. It was not…''
Lora brought Garon's hand to her heart, as if his presence could break through the dreadful recollection.
''They looked like pale dead women, with long hair floating in the sullied water. Some of them were truly dead, but once I reached the middle of the sewer... They jumped on me, screeching like agonizing beasts, their countless extremities like that of centipede... The heavy armor I wore at that time made me fall on my back. I was underwater, three of those things trying to shred my armor without effect, but I could not stand... Could not stand as water flooded my helmet, until... Until I could not hold my breath any...''
Lora stopped, incapable of going through it any further, feeling her whole body shudder and her breath shortening. Not again. Not again. Lora kept still, calming little by little again until the knot in her throat untied again, focusing on the strong hand she held strongly.
''I should not force you to confront your demons like this.'' Apologized Garon.
''I am the one who took up the challenge. I should know better.'' Argued Lora back before letting out a nervous laugh. ''I took on dragons, demons and a god. Yet I cannot stand in water reaching my shoulders. What does that make of me?''
''The woman I respect and admire. And the queen I love.''
"Flatterer." Lora laughed again, more heartily this time.
"… It may be too soon for you to appreciate this pool, but would you keep me company from the waterside?" Requested the king, rising with their hand still connected.
Lora stood up in turn, following Garon to the edge and letting go as he went into the pond.
''You just want to admire my body while swimming, do you not?'' Lora said sitting, legs crossed in the warm water.
''The pot calling the kettle black, my queen? I did not miss the way you looked at me here.'' Teased Garon back.
A big water splash was the only answer he got.
The sudden and violent sound of opening the library's door instantly took Leo out of his study. Who could enter the royal library with such haste? With a quick move, the young prince stood up and took the thunder tome he studied in hand. Determined footsteps, heavy and metallic. Most likely those of a royal guard, reassuring him partly but also sharpening his sense of danger. Readying himself, Leo moved a little to the side just in case. Soon he saw a figure emerged from behind the shelf. A large man with a sharp silver axe behind his back. The prince remembered his name, Boras. That man's rough face made him singularly recognizable among the royal guard of usually nobler origin.
''Prince Leo, thieves crept into the castle.'' Declared the man, bowing respectfully. ''I will stay by your side until they have been captured or slain.''
''Very well.'' Said Leo, keeping the tome in hand.
Thieves in Krakenburg? They must be peculiarly brave or foolish, thought Leo. However, something piqued his curiosity. The simple fact that they managed to sneak into the royal castle was a feat in itself, even if the security was at its lowest with the absence of the King, the Queen, and his elder siblings at the same time. Each of them took a strong share of royal guards and soldiers in their journeys. It may be the best occasion to make a move of some sort, but what was left of the soldiers was more vigilant than ever for a simple reason: if anything happened to the two youngest royal heirs, nothing would stop their heads from being forfeited.
''If they have been noticed, why are they still at large?''
''Their leader managed to slip between the guard's fingers. They are searching through the castle for him.''
Interesting, thought Leo until his face darkened. If by any chance the man managed to find his little sister, Elise would be in danger. Now more than curiosity was on balance. To catch a thief that managed to infiltrate the royal palace would not only be an achievement that belonged to him alone, but also a necessity for the sake of his young sister.
''Follow me. I will find that thief.'' Darkly decreed the blond prince.
The thunder tome under his arm felt lighter as he left the library and the royal apartments. This was his chance. Descending the large stone stairs with the royal soldier following like a large shadow. There were many places to hide in the castle in theory, this much was true. Many rooms were completely unoccupied, especially in the more noble apartments. Yet they were heavily guarded at the same time, hiding into them would be a dead sentence above anything else.
There were two possibilities: either the thieves had a map of the castle, or he did not. That first option was the most likely, or they were even more foolish than he thought of them. Evaluating the perfectly memorized structure in his mind, the blond prince continued his slow descent, weighting each option. He needed more information. If the guards were searching, they would likely come... To the servants' quarters, naturally. To the thief, it would likely be the perfect hiding place of a runaway, who would hide among the hundreds of faceless people who daily cleaned, fed and served the castle and its people.
Footsteps. Numerous, a minimum of ten to a dozen at most, quick and in a hurry, coming from an adjacent corridor. An instant later, a group of ten guards led by a lieutenant stopped abruptly their course in the crossroad, bowing before the prince.
''My lord, we are almost at the servant's quarters, soon we will catch that thief.'' Confidently announced the lieutenant.
''You will not find him there. Which direction have he taken in his fleeing?"
Destabilized by the abrupt declaration, the soldier nonetheless quickly regained his posture, saluting with a perfect stance.
''We lost him at the entrance of the west wing, my lord. He can't escape now. The bridge is under watch and tunnels under heavy surveillance.''
''Humpf. Then follow me.'' Said Leo after an instant of thinking.
''Yes, my lord! It will be an honor to serve you!''
The watchful gaze of the royal guard examined each man and woman of the troop as if they could be the very thief the prince searched before they moved again. The west wing hosted multiple places that could be suited to hiding: the servant quarters, the kitchens, the laundries… Leo knew where each of them stood, and which pathway would lead to each in the least amount of time. The labyrinth that was Krakenburg had no secret to him, he studied it enough to know it as the back of his hand. And it was with that knowledge that he directed his steps toward the deeper parts of the castle. With an order he sent three guards at the left of a crossroad, barring the access to the higher level, then two other right in front to secure the lateral corridors.
Now there were three possibilities. The thief could not have gone to the servants' quarters for the simple reason that he would be instantly discovered, each servant of the castle itself being a known quantity strictly watched and regulated – likely the very reason the band of thieves had been discovered so fast. The laundry was more probable, however at this time of the day it should be in full use. The kitchen would be more dangerous for the intruder than anything else: the cook ruled the place like it was his own kingdom, and Leo remembered the hell he almost suffered when he trespassed the place while hiding. Hiding from the guard at night, after killing one of his half-sisters under the order of his mother…
This memory made him feel dirty and he pushed it far away, cursing the woman who only gave birth to him to further her own plots and schemes, only to be killed without ever showing him any love. He focused again. Neither the kitchen, nor the servant's rooms, and certainly not the large laundries, who were currently in use: he remembered well the days and hours maids and butler had to accomplish each task, having been forced to learn them by his mother to know exactly where he could hide at any moment. It only left one place as most probable.
The depot. Big enough to hold the vast amount of food and items necessary for the castle to hold a siege for weeks, somewhat chaotic despite the efforts of the seneschal, it was the ideal place to hide if one was discreet enough. It should be heavily guarded, but it was well-known secret that since Krakenburg hadn't been under siege in more than a century, watchers of this place were often relegated to other, more urgent duties.
Arriving before the metallic gates of the depot after a long walk, the prince frowned at the lack of surveillance. Just as he thought. As for the doors themselves… The lieutenant pushed them lightly and they opened without resistance. This was the last proof needed. The depot's gates were normally locked at all time except the weekly inspection. Inspection that had taken place two days before.
''Now we have him for sure.'' Triumphantly declared the lieutenant. ''Please stand back, my lord. I will bring you this miserable thief in no time...''
Leo frowned. Six soldiers and the officer were far from enough to cover the whole depot. If the lieutenant was not an idiot, something the prince started to doubt, he would send his soldiers by group of two with himself at the head of one of those group. Meaning only two duo and one trio, and if the thief was smart enough, he could slip between them very well all day long. That would be inexcusable. Yet his own presence along with the royal guards would not enough to watch over so much area. Unless more soldiers were brought, but Leo repelled that idea. He knew he could do it on his own. He just has to find a way…
''Soldiers. Did any of you participate the last inspection of the depot?'' Asked the prince.
A single ''yes'' emerged in the resulting chorus of ''no my lord'', from a slim, brown-haired man whose spear seemed as large as his arms and whose armor looked almost too large.
''I'm Declan, milord. Got assigned to cleaning because the captain didn't like water instead of beer.'' Told the soldier with an unrepentant grin.
''That's irrelevant.'' Dryly reprimanded Leo, ignoring the furious look the lieutenant was giving to the speaking soldier. ''Do you remember the depot layout?''
''Yes milord.'' Answered Declan more seriously. ''I have it all in mind, swear on my life.''
''Describe it.''
The slim man then started a surprisingly detailed description of the depot structure, completed with a summary of the emplacement of each type of furniture that should be found in each row and cell. The picture painted in Leo's head could likely not be more accurate except by entering the place himself, and a plan was starting to form.
Considering that a thief was unlikely to best Boras, the soldiers could be separated in group of two with their officer, one of the soldiers accompanying Leo himself while the royal guard watched alone the exit. A clock-wise turn… No, reverse clockwise would be best because of the fork the soldier mentioned at one point.
''Boras, you will watch the entrance. Soldier Declan will come with me, and the other will go in group of two...''
''My lord, please reconsider! It would be more appropriate for an officer such as myself to protect you.'' Contested the lieutenant, cutting Leo in the middle of his orders.
''Lieutenant, I did not ask for your opinion.'' Bluntly said Leo.
''Young prince...''
A massive hand gripped the neck of the officer, taking the words out of his throat as he was turned toward the royal guard whose iron grip was slowly choking him.
''Are you challenging the prince, lieutenant?'' Asked Boras with a dangerous tone, looking at the now panicked eyes of the insolent.
A choked gurgling was all the man could muster, legs flailing as he tried uselessly to break through the crushing hold of the royal guard, his eyes were rolling and face twisted in panic as he reddened under the lack of air.
''I think the lieutenant learned his lesson.'' Said Leo without a shade of compassion.
Boras opened his hand and the guard fell on the ground, gasping for air in a pathetic display. It was not the first time Leo saw his words questioned in some ways since the departure of his siblings, mostly because of his youth as he still hasn't reached man age. Each of them was a reminder of his inferiority to Xander, whose natural charisma willed obedience in the most obtuse men.
''Try to catch the thief alive if possible. He will be made an example alongside his captured companions.'' Instructed the young prince.
The gates opened with a slight hiss, leading to the dark penumbra of the warehouse. Torches were disposed in a pile soon after the entrance, and Leo lighted them with a small fireball before everyone split in accordance to his orders. The soldier, Declan, held the torch and walked a little in front of the prince, cautiously eyeing the tunnels and opening the unlocked door of each cells containing unimportant items.
There was not a single speck of dust, proving that the maintenance had been done thoroughly. Yet it prevented an option to discover the thief, as there were no footsteps to follow on the stone ground, or even traces of passing. Sound of their own presence echoed on the stone, making their own presence impossible to hide. The thief might have already heard of the coming of at least one group. If the descriptions of Declan were accurate enough, the groups should corner the thief in one way or another, leaving no room for escape. And even if the thief managed to slip between them, he or she would face Boras who guarded the door.
Declan suddenly made a motion to stop the prince, torch waving suspiciously. Leo tensed as the soldier put his spear away before drawing his short sword out, yet the man did not make a move toward him, slowly moving forward. Did he find a trace of the thief? Or was it a trap? Leo advanced, thunder tome open and ready. The soldier pointed to a door on the left with his torch, allowing the prince to see why he stopped. Slightly open. The thief could be inside it.
The prince nodded. Declan burst through the door, revealing lines of large quivers filled with gigantic arrows inside the cell. No one. The soldier waved his torch, looking behind the door and deeper into the room. Nothing. Disappointed, Leo ordered to continue the search... Before stopping his steps, pieces coming together in his mind.
''Milord?'' Asked Declan.
''Let us move back.''
''Heh, if you say so milord.''
It was only an inch, but of the thief had been smart enough to evade capture up to now... The previous cell was locked, of course. Leo cursed himself. He forgot that neither him nor the soldier had the key to open the important cells. He was about to order to get back when Declan pulled something from his belt. A bunch of keys, one of them he introduced into the lock before turning it. With a clinking, the lock opened, to the disbelief of the prince. How did a simple soldier get his hands on those? Only the intendant should be in possession of the keys.
The door turned on its hinges, revealing the cell contents: lines of jar sealed with clay, likely containing oil. And further in... a figure in the dark, who covered its eyes as the torch wielding soldier entered the place. Satisfaction started to fill Leo. So, it had truly been a ploy.
''You have nowhere to run anymore, thief.'' Stated the prince, advancing behind the cover of Declan, magic ready to be fired.
The man was now clearly visible under the torchlight. Dressed in what could have passed for a ragged servant garb, his tanned skin indicating without a doubt his status as commoner living mostly in the open. Bleached, ruffled dirty grey-white hair covered an exhausted one-eyed face, an empty socket contrasting the opposing blue eye. Declan approached, sword ready just in case the thief resisted...
''Go on, kill me.''
The sudden prompt stunned Leo. Did he hear that right?
''Just kill me already!'' Implored the thief, face distorted in a scowl. ''What are you waiting for? Just do it!''
The prince looked intensely at the thief. Empty-handed, and there was no trace of a concealed weapon. No, there was no tricks. He knew this face. The face of someone without anything left. The expression one made when death was the only escape...
''Wait.'' Commanded Leo, moving in front of a surprised Declan. ''I am Leo, second prince of Nohr. What is your name, thief?''
''Does it even matter?'' Scowled the thief, seemingly uncaring about the revelation of who was before him. ''… Niles.''
''Then. If your life has no value to you anymore, I will take it for myself.'' Declared the prince. ''Niles, I make you my retainer.''
The completely shocked expression the thief shown was only rivaled by that of the soldier.
''No.'' Scoffed Lora, exceeded.
''But why? Look at those embroideries! Aren't they breathtaking? The absolute pinnacle of Izumo fashion, they are! Don't you have any words for it?''
Very few things ever made Lora wanted to kill someone that did not make any hostile move against her. But presented with what was likely the twentieth dress the archduke tried to fit her into, her patience was running low.
''Tactically inept?'' Suggested Lora with a barely contained venomous tone.
''War, war, war, what bore! Here in Izumo, we are all about peace! Love! Chicken grease!... Actually, maybe not the last one.'' Pondered Izana, archduke of Izumo, as he was holding the incriminated dress.
The queen was fuming. Metaphorically, and close to physically while that... Peacock was looking at her with its broad, idiotic smile. Yes, peacock was the best word to describe that man. Adorned in large black trouser and a gray bodysuit upon which was a white sleeveless top, with independent, wide white sleeves with black motifs. Two golden buttons maintained his top and a golden pin rested above his left ear among his long, flowing pale blue-white hair that did not help his already very soft, almost feminine features. A red symbol was engraved upon his bare forehead, without a doubt the mark of his godly lineage: two symmetrical wing-like lines at each side of a vertical tear-shaped mark. Flowing, silky long white hair descended in his back up to his waist.
Lora had no doubt the archduke could manifest a divine majesty in par with that of an actual god, a serene radiance that would inspire respect... Had not this damned man been such a flamboyant, unapologetic buffoon!
''Archduke, maybe you should come to term with your desire to put my queen in dress.'' Suggested Garon with a small, sly smile despite his impassible tone.
''Nonsense, king Garon! I need her to wear one for at least one dinner, my pride as host is on the line!'' Pouted the archduke like a child. ''Isn't it beautiful? At least?''
Lora had to admit it. The dress was magnificent, aesthetically speaking: the vibrant red satin adorned with golden embroideries the shape of flowers, birds and flames, complemented by an equally decorated waistband set with precious stones made a spectacular dress, one that would attract all gazes in any court. Yet it also looked more uncomfortable than a full suit of armor, with sleeves so large they would touch the floor even with arms standing, the length could make it usable as broom while walking, and finally the dress would likely kill anyone from sheer suffocation under its three layers of fabric!
''Archduke, as breathtaking as this dress is...'' She ignored the small victory cry of the archduke. ''… I refuse to wear it, or anything that will leave me all but paralyzed.''
''You once wore an armor made of rock! Of rock! That's just fabric! And pretty fabric too!'' Protested Izana.
Whispers erupted among the servants of the vast dressing room and Lora sent a betrayed look to Garon. Why did her husband had to talk about that to the lunatic trying to make her dress-up? Garon, on the other hand, accepted to wear the local outfit offered by the archduke, an elegant black outfit outlined with red and gold which looked far more lightly and comfortable than the abominations proposed to Lora, she thought while she the archduke seamstress took the beautiful red and gold cloth away. Or rather, one of her countless aid took the cloth away while she seemed to weight Lora with her gaze once again, seemingly just as if not more cut to the quick as the archduke by her many refusal.
''I'm certain you'll like the next one. It's so fitting, you'll believe it was made for you!'' Cheered Izana.
Someone must have replaced the archduke before they came. Or maybe it was all a vast prank made by the real archduke disguised as servant or cook in the kitchen. Lora only realized how desperate she was to escape out of this hell when her thought started to drift toward the speed at which she could cut the unnecessary parts of the previous dress to make a better outfit. And her king was just enjoying the spectacle from the side, restraining a laugh! Why was he betraying her like this?
Another servant approached, holding another pack of fabric that would likely be another horrendous dress. Maybe she could just ask for the same one Garon was wearing. Yes, that would be nicer than anything that had been proposed to her yet.
''And here it is! How is it?... No, don't say anything. I can see it in your eyes! You want to touch it, wear it, burn it to ashes!... Actually, your eyes always seem to say that, with the way they glow and all, but who cares?''
He was trying to make her mad. It was on purpose. It must be. It was not the same dress at least. Not exactly. Not precisely. The pattern was similar, but with different figures, the color more on the somber side. But why were there dozens of mirrors all upon the dress?
''I personally bedazzled this tunic with mirrors! They reflect spell! And they'll reflect your eyes shine! You'll be both protected and stylish! Everything you ever wanted!'' Continued the future charred corpse with insufferable enthusiasm.
''Archduke, I think it is enough. It would be regrettable to announce the end of your lineage today.'' Interrupted Garon, sensing how close a diplomatic incident was closing by. ''My queen, I fear our host would be quite disheartened to see you at his feast in our honor without clothing of his country. Surely you can find something in accordance to your taste.''
His words were light, yet his eyes told another story behind what was somewhat genuine amusement before the situation: patience, and play along. Lora breathed deeply, burying her irritation before speaking to the seamstress.
''The previous dress should be acceptable, should it be more alike the outfit worn by my king.''
''Why didn't you say so from the start, really.'' Pouted Izana. ''You know I just want you to feel comfortable!''
''Those are men cloth, your majesty.'' Pointed the old seamstress with disappointment before making a gesture toward her assistants. ''But if it is your wish.''
A silky screen was put between her and the rest of the room as female assistants of the seamstress took out her tunic, allowing an easier access for the tape measure. Lora raised her arms parallel to the ground, allowing the servants to estimate her height, waist and chest size. The old woman clacked her tongue, adjusting her eyeglasses after taking notes of the measures.
''At least your majesty has not much to cover in that area. The adjustments should be ready before the feast.'' Finally said the seamstress, before gesturing the servants to put back the queen's clothes and armor.
''Great! I'm leaving you there, I have to instruct the cook! Feel free to pass by. But not too much, or it'll ruin the surprise!...'' Said the archduke before slipping out of the room, still half-talking to them.
Garon waited for Lora to come out of the screen before leaving the room with her, traversing the corridors illuminated by numerous windows in view of the afternoon sun.
''My king, when did you find the opportunity to share such... tales, to the archduke?'' Asked Lora.
''I may not have resisted the opportunity to share some of your exploits during yesterday massage. One of us has to keep our host entertained.''
The queen apologetically nodded at the critic. She had left it to Garon to entertain the archduke for most of the week they had been in the palace, distancing herself from the insufferable, petulant man-child every time it was possible. While she was certain her king took advantage of the situation and was certainly less annoyed than her by the archduke attitude, his patience was visibly thinning.
''I will try to converse with the archduke tonight in your stead. There is no doubt he is only waiting for this since the first feast after all.'' Sighed Lora. ''Why don't you enjoy yourself in the meantime, my king?''
''You are authorizing me to feast without reservation then. How generous of you, my queen.'' Teased Garon before an indignant look reminded him how she would likely make him exert himself in their spar afterward.
Still... They enjoyed their sojourn. In this place without much duty to accomplish, without worries on a daily basis... It felt right to let go of some things. And despite the man-child hosting them, they had the occasion to enjoy things just the two of them in the past days. She did not manage to enter the pool yet, but the long, sunbathed road around the palace allowed them to ride horse seamlessly, racing for the simple pleasure of doing so under the sun, without the risk of an assassin or ambush. They listened songs and poetry from the best minstrels of Izumo, and challenged each other through games of strategy and luck... although Garon constantly beat her in the last department.
When the sun was setting on this day, a servant finally came knocking the door. Bringing both the dress, and the invitation to join the archduke feast in the great hall. And what a feast it was, that Lora wondered how the tables did not break under the sheer quantity of food present upon them.
''I call it "The Bounty of Izumo"! Refined! Plentiful! All the best specialties of the country right before your eyes!'' Boasted Izana from his central table. ''Whoever you are! Whenever you come from! Eat whatever you like! Tonight, we celebrate my fourth time winning the Best Hair Award!''
That statement was not exaggerated in the slightest. The archduke actually opened his palace sometimes to the common people for his feasts. Otherwise, it was likely that half of the food would be wasted. And such was the case tonight with the torches illuminating the fully occupied place brilliantly. At the biggest table were the guests of honor, some officials of the palace and the archduke himself, with Lora at its right while Garon occupied a seat a little away, the reverse of the usual configuration.
''Queen Lora! What pleasure to have you there. I waited for this since you arrived! King Garon heaped praise on you all day, I'm excited to finally have you at hand!''
''Thank you, archduke.'' Politely answered Lora, serving herself in the monumental plates of fish and rice.
''And you wear the dress! Even if it's very different. I can finally be at peace on that! Perhaps you'll launch a new trend?''
The beautifully ornamented red and gold dress had been greatly adjusted indeed, and Lora herself was surprised at how different it was from the heavy, suffocating thing it had been. It was now a long, tightly fitting once-piece dress with a semi-circular collar. A long slit on each side to the knee allowed a certain freedom of movement while the now very adjusted sleeves only reached up to just beyond the elbow, once more leaving a lot of freedom of movement.
''The seamstress deserve praise for her work. I did not intend to offend her, I am simply used to the practical comfort of my armors.''
''I heard of that. Scratch that, you never leave them! Where's the fun in armor? Also, where did you find an armor made of rock? Why would one even ask that for?'' Quickly elaborated Izana, feeding himself sweet between talk and breath.
''It was abandoned in an ancient ruin for time immemorial, but it has been rumored to have been made to hunt great dragon, for steel would not suffice against those creatures.'' Explained Lora, her own knowledge limited about the legends of the great Havel the Rock.
''To hunt dragon? You have dragons on your homeland then? They all disappeared here, become spirits and gods, the lot of them! I know for sure, after all I speak to them for my prophecies. Though they are really cryptic sometimes, clients go back just as confused as I am!''
''They are the one giving you prophecies?'' Asked Lora, suddenly interested.
''Of course! After all, who could say no to an adorable great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great grandson like me?'' Happily added the archduke. ''Too bad I couldn't have brother or sisters though. Blood stay in the family, only one child, keep it pure, all that bummer. Gosh, I'd exchange my spa for a good sibling! You had siblings maybe? How many? Big? Little?...''
Lora was feeling a headache coming as familiar questions swirled in her mind. How did this man speak so much without breathing? While filling himself with as much food as he could? All that without the smallest amount of anything resembling dignity, in the most casual fashion possible? Was he even reigning at all, or was he just throwing parties all year while his administration dealt with everything? Why was he barely leaving her the time to answer his questions before starting another string of interrogations and self-congratulation?
''… And with that I got my first Hair Winning Award! I just knew I had to keep participating. You should let them grow too. Why don't you? Not your style maybe? Ah, I know, it would bother in battle. Boooh, so boring. Peace is much more fun! Wanna know my secret for it?''
''I am all ears, archduke.'' Said the queen, about to pray for anything to distract the madman.
''Because no one wants to be on the gods' bad side, no one ever attack us! Simple, isn't it?'' Proudly declared Izana.
''Of course, it is... logical...''
''Tell you what, I'm sure you need something to get a better idea. Usually I charge a huge amount, but I'm on a roll! You deserve a little prediction for coming to my cozy good home!''
''Thank you very much, archduke, but it will not be...''
It only hit Lora after she almost said it. There. The goal of their visit, the very thing they came in a country so close to Hoshido. Offered when she least expected it. She immediately exchanged a look with Garon, who seemed to have heard that bit too from his part of the table.
''I insist, I insist! Besides, it looks like the gods want to tell you things, so I figured you'd like to know. Strange, usually I have to knock their door first.'' Mumbled Izana.
That was rather ominous, thought Lora as the banquet was heading to its end. And to no one's surprise, there was still an inordinate amount of food available, however she learned among the rambling of Izana that the excess would be distributed at low price among the townspeople in the following day. A surprising, but very generous idea. And nothing would persuade the queen that Izana was the one who thought of that idea. Nothing. The last guest left, leaving only Garon and Lora with the archduke still full of energy. The latter led them to a secluded wing of the palace, to finally arrive in a small, dark room. Inside it was a table supporting a crystal sphere, with two chairs around the table. Lora left Garon sat in the chair while Izana took place, a strangely serious look on his face...
''Alright, here we go... Oh, ancient gods... What's up? Why are you knocking this late?''
… That was immediately shattered by his ever so casual attitude... Yet the crystal ball was now shining, and something seemed to fill the atmosphere of the room. Lora felt a shiver down her spine. Not directly, but like the tremor of an earthquake, she could feel something powerful spread its presence toward the archduke. And it was awfully familiar... Where did she felt such presence before...
''White scale, listen to the song... A legacy must not be just lies... The hatchling will follow the Flame... When Heaven and Earth meet above the Below...''
Izana suddenly fell from his chair after uttering the last words, the ball light dying off and the presence retreating. Lora caught the archduke in a flash before he touched the ground. His skin was icy, his forehead covered in sweat.
''Fiuuu... That one was tiring...'' Moaned the archduke, eyes barely open as he used the queen's support to stand up from his chair.
''Archduke, can you tell us the meaning of this... Prophecy?'' Asked Garon, frowning.
''I can't... It's too obscure, I don't even understand what it was talking about... Just know the gods really, really wanted you to hear it...''
A long yawn followed the archduke declaration. Lora looked at her king, only to meet an equally puzzled expression. They came to Izumo to obtain answers, but the only thing they got was more questions. And whatever was the meaning of that prophecy, Lora was sure of only one thing.
''I hate gods. Really.''