Chapter 75: Uneasy Alliances
Twilight painted the Moonlight Palace in shades of violet and silver as Queen Elena’s procession approached the grand entrance. True to her word, the Thornvale monarch had arrived in just two days—a journey that should have been impossible by conventional means.
Queen Elysia stood at the top of the palace steps, her silver gown catching the last rays of sunlight. Captain Diana flanked her right side, while Princess Lyra stood to her left, both women rigid with formal posture that barely concealed their anxiety.
’Three years since Thornvale royalty last graced these steps,’ Elysia thought, her face a careful mask of diplomatic cordiality. ’And that visit ended with drawn blades and broken treaties.’
The Thornvale party dismounted from steeds unlike any seen in the Moonlight Kingdom—creatures with coats that shimmered between solid and translucent, their hooves never quite touching the ground. Commander Maria led the guards, her living wooden armor creaking softly as she moved. The Lens twins walked in perfect synchronization behind Queen Elena, their identical features scanning the surroundings with calculating precision.
Naia stood slightly apart from the welcoming party, her eyes narrowed as she observed the new arrivals. Her gaze lingered particularly on Mika, who walked at the edge of the procession, seemingly indifferent to the tension in the air.
"Queen Elena," Elysia spoke first, her voice carrying across the courtyard. "The Moonlight Kingdom welcomes you and your delegation. Your swift arrival is... impressive."
Elena ascended the steps with fluid grace, the flowers in her hair blooming and wilting in rapid cycles. Up close, her eyes betrayed her age—ancient beyond her appearance, carrying the weight of centuries.
"Queen Elysia," Elena replied with a formal nod. "Circumstances dictate urgency over ceremony."
The two monarchs regarded each other with guarded expressions, decades of mistrust hanging between them like an invisible barrier.
"We have prepared quarters for you and your people," Elysia continued smoothly. "Perhaps you would like to refresh yourselves after your journey before we discuss the matter at hand."
Elena’s lips curved into something not quite a smile. "A thoughtful offer. The hospitality of the Moonlight Palace is as renowned as its secrets."