20th day of the season of the sun 2448

All night long, the personal servants of Argent's father devoted themselves body and soul to repair the damage caused by Detmor's betrayal. Argent had very little sleep with all that noise. She spent half the night leaning against her window sill watching the moon and the servants at work. Her nightgowns danced softly in the breezes. She wore nothing underneath, letting the wind cool her skin. She half smiled as she realized that this tragic event was over. She silently thanked Elysia, goddess of life and happiness, for bringing the High King to Daigorn. His timing had been perfect. He'd saved most of the population, including everyone Argent cherished. On the other hand, the young warrior questioned the benevolence of the devious Noktow. Was it his shenanigans that had brought all this about? No one could really know.

Azena, Fayne and Serus were leaving tomorrow to be replaced by the Prince of Elthen, also known as the Brown Prince, Argent's betrothed. She missed them already. She cheered herself up by remembering that the prince was only going to be there for two evenings. The wedding will be later. Her mother had told her:

- I know it's beyond your control and consent, but at least take advantage of the situation. You will be queen of a great region. You will have power, the power to change many things. I hear the Brown Prince has a good heart. You're a wise woman. He'll listen to you.

A tear ran down her cheek, shining in the moonlight like a precious diamond. She remembered her answer:

- I want to join the Order of Knights. I want my knighthood. This is how I want to leave my mark on this world.

Her mother had heard it and understood it, but alas, she could do nothing more.

Emotions passed and Argent wiped away the lone tear. The fight and the brief meeting with Kardun and his father had sapped her out of her energy. Her eyes were burning, her muscles were aching. She yawned and gazed at the starry sky one last time. The image of Demien in his armor, resplendent in the heart of the battle, was her lullaby that evening.

✦×✦

21st day of the season of the sun 2448

- My Lady.

There was a knock on the bedroom door. Argent grumbled, turned to the side and folded her arms around her pillow.

- Come in, Serfie.

- Ryah is with me, the servant said.

The two women entered and stepped in front of the bed.

- You're not up, Ryah wondered. My lady, it's not like you.

- Are you unwell? Serfie asked, worried. If it's your period, we can bring you medicine for the cramps.

Argent smiled at both women.

- You are so helpful. It's not that. I'm just sad. My sister and brother are leaving and I don't want to meet the Prince of Elthen.

Ryah choked an exclamation of surprise with his hand. Serfie, for her part, didn't seem surprised; she had always been smarter than her companion.

- Why not? Ryah asked. He's a prince! He's, well, he's your betrothed.

- Exactly, said Serfie. He's her betrothed, not her lover. There's a big difference.

- Oh. I've never had a lover, so I don't know.

She seemed sad for a while, but her mood recovered quickly.

- I can understand that... Being forced is not pleasant.

- For the honor of my house, said Argent with as much sarcasm as sincerity. I don't know if it's as important as I thought.

This time the two maids were left in shock. Argent had always been devoted to her house and was very loyal. Ryah glanced at Serfie. The blonde girl motioned for her to let it go.

- Anyway, Ryah began clumsily, you must prepare yourself, my lady. Your brother is leaving soon.

- Of course, replied Argent. We mustn't miss his departure. It would be bad manners.

She stood up. The servants guided her to the bathroom, where a huge basin lay in the center. The stone floor was wet and cold. Ryah prepared Argent's outfit as Serfie untied her ponytail and proceeded to help her undress.

- You know, I'm not a child anymore, Argent said.

Although she enjoyed being pampered, the young adult knew she was independent enough to take care of herself.

- Don't talk nonsense, My Lady, Serfie replied. It is our duty to make sure you are at your best with the least amount of effort required of you.

A third servant arrived with a bucket of boiling water and poured it into the basin. She bowed and left.

Argent settled into the basin, leaning against the rim with her arms extended. The warmth of the water relaxed her muscles. She let herself lose interest in reality for a long time. When she came to, Serfie washed her with a cloth. Despite the habit, she felt irritated. Like a lady of nobility, she masked her emotions with prowess so only politeness would appear.

Once Argent was washed and dried, Ryah dressed her in a tight corset that barely let her breathe. She couldn't help smiling at the lady's faces.

- I know you hate that, My Lady, but look how your bust is prominent and is well lifted. You're going to impress the prince.

Then, over the corset, she passed over a half-luscious dress of a pale mauve which brought out the Argent's grey eyes.

- It's perfect and the color of the kingdom.

She carefully examined Serfie's work and nodded.

- A beautiful long fishtail braid. Perfection, my beautiful Serfie.

- Can I go now? Argent asked.

- Wait, My Lady, Serfie said, presenting her with sandals.

- Oh, I hate those. It's so uncomfortable and it handicaps me.

- I'm sorry, My Lady. Your mother has instructed us to make sure you look like a future queen today.

Argent gave in to their whims. She figured it was only for one day. At least for now. She let herself be made up, but insisted it be light. Heavy makeup wasn't her style.

- It's a deal, Serfie said willingly.

Serfie and Ryah escorted Argent to the entrance of the castle, where a group of guards were waiting for them. At the head of the troop stood a proud and familiar face. Despite the helmet that covered most of his face, Argent recognized Demien.

- They've given you the charge of a troop, she said excitedly for him. You must be proud.

She couldn't see, but she knew her friend was smiling under his helmet.

- My Lady, said Demien in a formal tone. We have been instructed to escort you to Nothar's main gate.

He was the only one who wore a halberd, symbolizing his title of captain of the troop; the others beared a bastard sword.

- Good. Let's go then. Don't make my brother wait too long.

She smiled devilishly, knowing that her friend was trying to look professional.

As they made their way to the main gates, the troop surrounded Argent, protecting her from an attack from any angle. Demien walked side by side with her in the center.

Argent whispered:

- So, all is well. You're getting a promotion soon?

Demien nodded and stiffened his head to mask his friendliness with the Lady of Daigorn. Argent smiled and then looked up. The main gate stood tall and proud before them.

- Just in time, said Lord Bayrne, who stood with his family along the stone path.

He approached his daughter and embraced her briefly.

- You look lovely.

He escorted her to Rivatha and turned back to Demien.

- Excellent work, Captain. You may go and rest now. Security is the responsibility of the Captain of the Guard.

The children were placed in order of age. Argent stood between her mother and Azena. The archer elbowed her older sister and leaned over.

- Was it good?

- Oh, please, replied Argent.

She couldn't help smiling in spite of herself. Azena had a mischievous look on her face as usual. Her eyes shone, looking for trouble.

- When are you leaving? Argent asked her.

- Not long after Serus, she answered, her voice slightly worried. You'll be there, won't you?

- Yes, I will be there. I'll be there, I promise.

Her heart filled with joy when her little sister smiled and all traces of her anxiety disappeared.

A few minutes passed, and finally, Serus appeared aback a pale-nosed black stallion. He wore his dark leather armor and other gear.. Several soldiers followed him, all equipped according to their fighting style.

Argent noticed the absence of Daigorn's banner, as he did every time he left.

- Why don't you represent your kingdom, brother? she thought. Why this subtlety?

And as every year, she didn't recognize any of the soldiers who accompanied Serus. They weren't from Nothar, possibly not even Daigorn.

- Father won't answer my questions, she thought to herself. He never does. All this is curious. What are these quests that keep you away for months at a time?

- Be careful and safe, sister, said Serus as Argent's farewell came.

- Don't worry, my brother, she answered. I know how to defend myself very well.

- I don't doubt that.

- The same goes for you.

- You have an admirer, he whispered.

He pointed his head at a young man standing aside.

- Eh?

She followed his movement with her eyes and saw Demien, sitting on a barrel, who was drawing, glancing in her direction from time to time. She rose slightly and turned her attention to Serus. He sneered, said his farewells to his other brothers and sisters, and then at last, he crossed the main gates and put his stallion in a gallop.

The commoners were the first to leave, then the nobles, leaving the Kindirah family who were free to move about without encumbrance.

- I'll catch up with you, said Argent.

Her family returned to the castle. When they were far enough away, she approached nonchalantly towards Demien.

- What's that? She asked amusedly.

She lowered the sheet of paper supported by a book with one finger as gently as possible.

- It's you, said Demien unscrupulously.

He showed her the drawing, full of confidence.

- I had to capture this moment. You rarely make an appearance in a dress.

Argent frowned, uncertain if she was comfortable with the compliment.

- Hey, Demien continued. I know it's not your thing... Okay, you may hate it, but you look great, Argent.

Their eyes met.

- Look at those gray pearls. Admirable, feminine, but strong as iron.

He gently stroked near her eye, like a lover would.

- If I could find a woman like you, I could never complain.

Argent suppressed the fire that threatened to blush her cheeks.

- My Lady, said a man behind them.

Argent turned around. A man in his forties in shining armor waited. He was tall enough, but Argent stood up to him, tall and muscular for a woman.

- Lord Kindirah sent me.

- Of course, replied Argent. I'll see you later, Captain.

She winked mischievously at him and followed Kardun.

- At the ceremony instead, he said, raising his voice for her to hear.

Argent didn't turn around, despite her surprise. She followed the Captain of the Guard to the castle.

They found Bayrne in the dining room where the servants were completing the final preparations. He was shouting orders right, left and center.

- More candles. I want our guests to see something.

A servant stopped in front of him.

- But, my lord, it's daylight.

- We'll celebrate until the moon sets, Bayrne said. So prepare more candles. Hurry up, the king will be here soon.

The servant, his face dripping with sweat, nodded and did so.

- Father, called Argent.

She ran towards him.

- My daughter, replied Bayrne, suddenly much happier.

He hugged her and looked at her attentively.

- Serfie and Ryah have outdone themselves, he continued with a smile. You are perfect. This prince won't be able to resist you.

Argent smiled in turn. She liked to see her father so happy, even if it was for a reason she didn't particularly like.

- May I return to the main gate for a short amount of time? Azena... I'd like to witness her departure.

- Your heart is tender, as usual.

He was interrupted by a soldier who introduced himself.

- My lord, said the soldier, the scouts have returned. The king will be here shortly.

- Damn that old lion for being so swift, laughed Bayrne.

The lord nodded, letting the soldier go.

- I'm sorry, Argent, but you must stay here. We're running out of time. You must be ready.

- But I promised her, Argent said. It is the duty of a lady, even more so of a future queen, not to break her word.

- And I understand, more than you know, but a future queen must also talk to her future king. Now, relax. Everything will be ready in time. Azena will understand.

- Can you send someone to tell her so that she's not expecting me?

Bayrne nodded and ordered a guard posted at the entrance to take the verbal message to Azena.

- Make it quick. Her group's leaving soon.

- I will be quick, my lord, the guard answered.

- Thank you, said Argent to her father.

- Rest, said the Lord. You have a long day ahead of you and it's only morning.

Argent sat in front of the fireplace. There was a small fire fuelled by wood. It was already hot enough in the room so it was only used as decoration.

Shortly afterwards, the messenger guard returned, advised the lord that the king was approaching and handed a piece of paper to Argent. The young lady opened it delicately and recognized in the rough handwriting of her little sister:

Don't worry about me. I understand. I will come back even stronger, and maybe this time I will show you some new techniques.

Oh, hey, don't let father control your destiny. I know, about the Brown Prince. Besides, I know about your guard, too. Ha ha.

Argent rolled her eyes and threw the paper into the flames. The flames grew momentarily, like an attempt to scratch the sky.

A long time passed, and Bayrne finally approached her daughter.

- It was time. Let's go to the main gate. The king is almost here.

As he exited the castle, he shouted:

- Maximum security, maximum safety. I want no soldiers or idle guards. Captain Kardun, keep all your men busy.

- Yes, my lord, Kardun said.

He issued orders to his sub-captains:

- Get me Demien and his troop.

- Demien is one of our guests. It's all right, let him attend. Put his men to work, though.

He went on his way, Argent and a few guards on his heels. Argent was delighted that Demien could be here. She knew she was strong, but his presence always reassured her.

The trumpet of Elthen, the golden kingdom, sounded three times before the sound of the horses' hooves pounding the stone path to Nothar grazed Argent's ears.

- Make way for King Brown, cried the head banner bearer. Make way for the king of the shining kingdom of the Golden Goblet as well as your own.

Argent noticed that the mention of Daigorn had once again been overlooked. The banner bearer passed before her; the banner floated in the wind like a river of earth. In the center lay the golden cup of Elthen. On his heels, a horde palomino and isabelle horses trotted gracefully through the city in perfect conduct. Their rider was equipped with a shining gold plate armor that was nearly too bright to stand to stare. Even their weapons were of high quality, made by a specialized hand. On their brown cloak with cream rims also rested the golden cup of the banner.

- The Knights of Elthen, murmured Argent.

They almost took her breath away. They were so handsome and beautiful. Their pride, their finery, they were a perfect mixture of a warrior's strength and a king's royalty.

Argent felt the tips of her ears warm at the sight of the High Knight, the commander of the Order of Knighthood. He took off his helmet and greeted Bayrne. He was splendid, perfect. A young warrior with hazelnut-green eyes and long dark blond hair. He wore a single spaulder, on the right, golden with white edges, fused with an ivory eagle.

- My Lady, said a young man in an extremely polite and gentle voice.

At last Argent detached her gaze from the High Knight. In front of her, a man of about twenty years of age smiled; a small but sincere smile. He wore armour similar to that of the knights, but with special modifications such as a leopard's head on his two spaulders. Argent found this a bit exhibitionist, but she didn't judge. His mount, on the other hand, was an exemplary specimen. She had never seen such a beautiful stallion. His coat and mane was a pale cream, almost white, and his big eyes reminded her of a tropical ocean, a soft blue.

- My prince, she stammered, distracted by the horse.

She lowered her gaze as a sign of politeness and submission.

- His name is Jre'gan, said the prince with a strange but exotic accent.

Argent looked up.

- Jreh'ganh?

The prince laughed innocently.

- Jre'gan, he corrected her.

He was careful to pronounce it slowly. At his name, the stallion shook his head with majestic strength and prowess.

- May I?

She reached out her hand towards Jre'gan. The prince gave her permission with a simple hand motion and she gently patted the stallion's snout. The stallion blinked as if to thank her. A strange intelligence illuminated its face.

- His gaze...

- He had the same effect on me, said the prince. He was raised in Neowalds among the moon elves. That's why he's so smart.

- You're so beautiful, Jre'gan.

The stallion suddenly raised his snout, brushing it against Argent's cheek. The bells attached to his mane jiggled with the movement.

- He likes you, said the prince.

He paused, watching Argent interact with Jre'gan.

- My name is Kiojar. You're Argent, aren't you?

Argent nodded.

- Yes, my prince.

She took the time to take a closer look at him. He was typical of the Elthenians: coppery skin, long sandy hair and almond-shaped eyes. He was tall, with a medium build, with a square face and strong jaw. He was certainly a proud warrior, but he would not be a match for a barbarian of the Blood of the Dragon. From his belt hung a short sword and on the other side a long mace. It was a strange combination. Argent was interested to see how he did in a duel. But today was not a good time for that kind of request.

- Do you like what you see? he chuckled as he anxiously rubbed his goatee.

It seemed like the chin was the only area he could decently grow facial hair for the rest was still juvenile.

- Um? Oh! You're talking about you. Um...

She hesitated, not knowing what to say. The prince was handsome and all, but her heart belonged to Demien. She tried to push the guard aside, but she couldn't see herself as a couple with Kiojar.

- No need to answer, he said, looking a little sad.

- I'm sorry, it's just that I hardly know you.

A trumpet rang and the knights followed their king and Bayrne towards the castle.

- It's time to eat and talk business, Kiojar concluded. Would you like to accompany me up here? It's faster and I can't possibly allow a lady to walk, especially you.

He offered his hand. Argent couldn't refuse a prince, so she accepted. Besides, she wanted to ride Jre'gan. She ignored the prince's hand and mounted Jre'gan with ease.

- I'm an experienced rider.

- You're impressive, my lady.

He whispered a command to Jre'gan that Argent didn't understand, and the stallion galloped away. Jre'gan sprinted through the city as if he'd known it for years. He had fun taking many detours that lengthened the way. Every once in a while, Kiojar would whisper to him in the same strange language. Finally they arrived at the castle.

- Here you are, cried a guard at the entrance. Lord Kindirah and King Lenmar are worried. Please go to them in the dining room.

- Do you do this often? Argent asked Kiojar.

- No, Kiojar confessed. I wanted to visit your city and show you what Jre'gan was capable of.

He smiled, mischievous. That smile reminded Argent of Azena. The two companions hopped off the stallion and walked towards the entrance of the castle.

- I don't advise it, said Argent. Detmor has just betrayed our hospitality and my father is tense.

Kiojar looked shocked. It took him a moment to reply:

- Those good-for-nothing wolves. My father has always told us to be wary of them and that they are not to be trusted.

He took a moment of silence to regain his composure.

- Fear not, My Lady, we have a golden word and honor.

- That's true. Your people are renowned for it.

Still, Argent kept her guard up. Kiojar seemed to have a good heart, but she couldn't help but feel suspicious after yesterday's events. Prince Zamir had an innocent soul, too, according to Azena.

- It's always best to be cautious. You are wise, My Lady.

Argent remained impassable, but within her, a vortex of questions arose. She didn't expect the prince to pierce her shell so easily.

- I trust you, she lied.

The prince could only smile. He obviously didn't believe her, but he was still polite about it. He opened the door and let her in.

Inside, the dining room was buzzing with conversation. All the guests were there. Additional tables had been set up.

- The prince! exclaimed one of the king's subjects.

Silence fell. Most of the eyes fixed themselves on Argent, whose beauty was unequalled. The Eltherians were nearly all copper skinned, almond eyed and wore light clothes. They were the children of the desert and the sun.

Argent spotted Demien at the end of a table, accompanied by Kardun and a few other high-ranking soldiers, a cup of wine in his hands and a slight smile on his lips. He, too, stared at her with his beautiful eyes filled with admiration. His lips moved, but no sound came out:

- It will be alright.

Argent felt relieved to see her close to him. Royalty and formality wasn't her favorite game, but unlike Azena, she was doing well.

- Come and sit by my side, called Lord Bayrne.

Argent obeyed. To her left, Kiojar sat between her and her father. The king was much like him, but stronger and wiser. He was in his mid-forties, his mid-length hair and his long goatee were sand-colored with silver stripes. His face shone with a kindness that made him look younger. He hugged his son briefly before turning to Argent.

- You're beautiful, Argent. Lord Bayrne has told me all about you. Kiojar chose wisely.

- Thank you, Your Majesty, said Argent.

She forced a smile. Anxiety began to build up and for a moment her smile flickered.

- Just call me Lore. You'll be family soon, in about a season to be precise. You will be united under the brown moon as is the tradition in Elthen.

His voice was powerful and deep, but at the same time, it was reassuring and soft. It reminded Argent of a large lion with a thick mane and a royal roar. A big brute with a noble heart.

- This is my queen, Odilia.

To her left, a beautiful woman in her mid-thirties seemed to glow in her white and beige dress. She had the same eyes as Kiojar. Unlike the rest of her family, her hair was wavy and jet black. It was so thick and long that it seemed to bury the rest of her person.

- Nice to meet you, Argent.

- The black panther, called Argent.

Odilia smiled.

- I am known from afar as I can see.

Argent blushed and lowered her gaze.

- Forgive me, my queen.

- Do not worry, young child of the storm. That's a good title, in my opinion. The emblem of our family is indeed a panther; a classic panther, but a panther nonetheless.

She gently raised her future heiress's chin and inspected her. Her brown eyes crossed hers.

- I'm a little different.

She paused, thinking about her next words.

- Just call me Odilia.

Without quite understanding why, Argent felt terribly embarrassed. She waited for the queen to place her attention elsewhere and resumed a conversation with Kiojar to distract herself.

✦×✦

Later in the evening, after dozens of appetizers and food, songs and drinking games, most of the crowd was drunk. One of the guards, drowning in alcoholism, had come to court Argent in front of the entire royal family. He was singing that she was his. Kardun stood up to restrain him, but Demien took care of him. At the end of the fight, Demien found himself with a black eye and a bleeding nose, while his opponent, passed out on the ground, was dragged outside.

- Are you wounded, My Lady? Demien asked Argent.

- I am well, she answered, happy for her protector. Thank you.

She paused and he turned back.

- And you, my prince?

He stopped and took a breath a little deeper than normal, as if he was mentally preparing to endure a blow.

- I'm fine.

He went back to his seat. Something was wrong. Argent looked around. His father and Lore were busy playing arm wrestling, trying to impress their wives. The two men laughed heartily at every game and threw jokes around. Lore nearly buried the entire crowd with his giant's voice. He hit the table, defying Bayrne in a friendly challenge.

Kiojar was well sober and attentive.

- Is everything all right? he asked.

- I'd like to go and talk to my friend for a while, but I don't know if now is the right time,explained Argent.

- You're not a prisoner, far from it. You're a lady and a future queen. Go where the breeze takes you; you are her daughter after all. You'll make a perfect sandstorm.

Kiojar's admiring gaze made Argent half uncomfortable and half proud. She nodded her head in thanks and walked over to the soldiers' table where Kardun and Demien greeted her with wild cheers. They were clearly half drunk now, Kardun a little more than Demien.

- Argent! Are you all right, Lady of the Wind? Kardun asked.

- I'm all right, Captain of the Guard, replied Argent, turning to Demien. Can you come for a moment?

- You are a Lady, said Demien. You-you can order me to, you know.

Kardun raised a suspicious eyebrow, but let the two youngsters go. He had probably noticed the lack of formality in their interactions.

Argent led Demien to one of the many balconies of the castle where they would be alone. She ordered the guards to leave them. They hesitated at first, but she told them that Demien was a guard himself and that it would be enough to protect her. Finally, they obeyed.

- I wondered how long you'd last, Demien confessed with a teasing smile, leaning against the back wall.

- That's not funny, replied Argent impatiently.

She sighed for a long time and shook herself, trying to ignore her discomfort.

- I'm sorry, she said. I needed a moment to sort out everything that's going on. It's a lot to take in so little time.

- And I was your escape route.

He giggled, his smile as charming as the rest.

- It's okay. Why do you think I came here? I had to offer you a little help.

He regained his serious expression, though still blurred by the alcohol.

- So, what do you think of the Brown Prince of the Panthers and the Golden Goblet? I wonder if he's got rosettes all over his junk and gold panties.

Argent frowned, her expression stunned by the soldier's comments.

- Alcohol brings out the buffoon in you. Besides, do I really need to answer? You know my opinion on the matter.

- Come, relax a little. All we need is a little humor to take our minds off things. That was your goal, wasn't it?

- I'm not in a very good mood, the lady confessed. I don't know what to think. Everything seems to be going well with the Lenmar. My family gets along well with them, they're kind, honourable, and not to mention very beautiful. It's still too early to say.

- So cute. Argent that lets herself be courted, that's a rare sight.

- Oh come on, Kiojar is an interesting friend, that's all. I don't want him as a lover. I do like his stallion.

Demien raised an eyebrow, surprised by the random change of subject.

- You like his horse?

Argent looked away, uncomfortable.

- Well, yeah.

He approached her, confident and handsome. Without warning, he cupped her face with both hands, lightly brushing her right cheek with a finger, which made her shudder.

- Argent of the Kindirah family, you are the most splendid woman I have ever had the good fortune to meet, he said in his soft, affectionate voice. You are not always easy to please. Behind this lady mask, you are a true child of the storm. I must confess that I want you by my side.

His face suddenly darkened.

- What are you trying to tell me? Argent questioned, as worried as she was excited.

She put her hand on his, on the one that was rubbing her cheek, and smiled.

- I came here for two reasons, the soldier confessed. The first, for you, to support you.

He hesitated for a long time.

- The second... before it is too late...

Argent was almost certain to know the rest of his confession. She nearly lost control of her emotions as she felt a chill trickle down her spine. She had waited too long for this moment.

- Let's get out of here, Argent said. Let's go to Elthen and become knights together. Let's abandon our duties to Daigorn. Please. I want you by my side too. It would be our dream, just as we wanted.

Demien remained speechless for a moment, then his facial features darkened.

- You know that's impossible. They'd find you easily. Everyone would know the Lady of Daigorn would be there. You don't look like your parents, but you're not hard to tell apart. Your eyes of iron, your long almond hair, your distinct beauty, even in armor.

Argent felt as though she was under a spell. Her heart was pounding, she was having hot flashes and her head was threatening to explode from the overwhelming emotions swirling in her mind.

Kiss me, you idiot, she begged mentally. Stop talking and kiss me, by the light of Elysia.

- Becoming a knight is impossible, Argent, ended Demien.

Argent's emotions palpitated with irritation.

- This is your plan? That I abandon my ambitions and lower myself to be what my family wants me to be?

- Not at all, no. I'm simply telling you that becoming a knight is not possible. They'd find you. If you want to become a warrior, you'd have to join a faction not so close to the king or your father. Do you understand what I'm saying?

- I don't want to join a bunch of bandits of some sort.

- Do you know about all the factions in Aerinda? You don't have to follow the suzerain of a kingdom to have a good conviction. Come on, you're smarter than that.

She thought about it.

- Ummm... Maybe you're right.

- I wanted to talk to you about it because I've been thinking about taking this step. I have a feeling of unease about our overlords, especially the High King.

- What do you mean by that?

- Don't you think it's suspicious that Detmor has suddenly betrayed us? That the High King himself was around just at the right moment?

- He said he was here to warn the dragon riders to return to Atgoren urgently.

- But he came in person to get Nothar's dragon riders. I don't know, what kind of king moves around for so little? He had another reason behind all this. Anyway, think about my offer.

- What kind of faction are you planning to join?

Demien smiled.

- I'll tell you about it later. We should get back to the banquet. Our absence will become suspicious.

Argent secretly hoped he would kiss her before they set off. This was possibly their last chance to physically bond. At this point, she didn't even care if she got pregnant. At least she would have had what had haunted her since they were both teenagers.

- Silly girl, she thought to herself. Don't listen to the hormones and do your duty.

Frustrated, she respected the guard's choice and followed him.