Fall of Ima (Cycles of the Lights series)

Chapter Eleven

Priletoria- 2186 Iman Year

Meliora awoke each morning in a bright mood, expecting her mother. Six months had passed since her departure and though Meliora hadn't received word, the Princess felt confident the Queen tested into the school of sorcery. Meliora couldn't wait to offer congratulations.

One afternoon as she made her way towards the dining hall, Meliora heard the pleasant song of a Euterpe bird. She followed it to the library where a domed cage waited by a window. Skipping with joy she cried, "Mother!" Meliora rushed through the palace calling for Queen Vesper. The chamberlain stopped her respectfully and informed the ruler didn't return. Disappointment shone on Meliora's face.

"But she did address a letter to you," the chamberlain tried to cheer. "I left it beside the birdcage."

"Thank you." Meliora forced a grin. She trudged back, trying to keep spirits high.

True enough, a letter sat beside the cage. Retrieving the heavy paper, she found a seat by a window. As she pulled apart the seal, the Princess sniffed, hoping to catch whiff of Vesper's lilica perfume. The letter had seen a long journey and no such reminiscence lingered.

Dearest Mellie,

Deepest apologies, but I cannot return to spend time with you. I've passed my exams and was initiated into the school of sorcery. There's much to be done before training and I'm unable to visit as I'd wished. I hope your new pet will keep you company in my stead. I can't wait to learn the name you give the darling creature.

Much Love,

Your Mother

The corners of Meliora's lips turned down as she reread the letter. It was short and lacking intimacy. "Where're the stories? The playful tropes?" The Princess slumped. "Is something the matter?"

Her eyes trailed out the window. If it were only that she missed her mother, Meliora would've found a way to cope. What troubled her was the belief she shared with General Guyak. As the crowned monarch, her mother's priority should be to Priletoria. She didn't return when promised. The kingdom had no way of confirming when they'd see their ruler again. "Why wouldn't she come home for a visit unless something's amiss?" The question gnawed at her.

Jedrek strolled into the library with a smile, "Petra sent me to fetch you for our meal. Kemuel's waiting."

Meliora lowered the letter. When Jedrek noticed her frown, the grin faded. He squeezed onto the armchair beside her as he often did in their youth. Now they sat snugly. "What's the matter?" he asked. Meliora read the letter to him. "She sounds well," he commented. The Princess made a face. "Alright, I confess it does sound distant for your mother. She's always so communicative and opinionated."

"You also feel something isn't right?"

"Miwa, she's adjusting on another planet and is probably busy. Give her time. I'm sure she'll write more soon."

A dimple appeared but worry didn't completely recede from her face. Jedrek kissed her temple. "Who's your new friend?" he asked of the bird.

"A present from my mother."

"See, she still thinks of you," he beamed

"But what of the kingdom? She needs to think of Priletoria, Jeju," Meliora snipped in frustration.

"I'm sure she's reasons for her actions."

Meliora accepted his words. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to be upset towards you."