Fall of Ima (Cycles of the Lights series)

Chapter Twelve

Priletoria- 2187 Iman Year

Meliora scribbled in a pocketbook. Upon finishing, she lowered the leather cover and tucked the pen behind an ear. Having begun her advanced education, notes came in handy as she balanced lessons with duties.

"Princess, you're getting ink in your hair!" the chamberlain cried.

"It'll be alright. No need to be dramatic," she chided playfully.

"But please, if your mother knew I'd allowed you to behave so unladylike..."

Meliora winked, "We shan't tell her now, shall we? Besides, Scholar Halder and General Guyak never mind what I do."

The chamberlain shook his head. "As I was saying. These trade reports are sent in from Priletoria's various regions. We need to balance them against export-import sheets twice a month."

"I see the far right lists taxes."

"Correct. They're calculated based on consumption like most Iman kingdoms. Brisea's the only kingdom that taxes on production. As monarch one day, you'll need to keep up to date understanding of your kingdom's trade. Decisions over taxes and treaties will be left to you."

Meliora studied the immaculate ledgers, but found they told her little of the citizens. "Chamberlain, how have our people been fairing?"

"Princess?"

"It's a simple question, really."

"I believe they're well."

Meliora brought a finger to her chin. "What're your remaining duties for the day?"

"Your highness, I've much to do!" he grew exasperated. Impulsiveness made the chamberlain uncomfortable.

"I guess you needn't accompany me then. It's been some time since Priletoria's seen a member of its royal family, don't you think? My father often rode to the villages, and I've accompanied him few times." She beamed. "I'd like to see one today."

The chamberlain shook his head in disapproval. "Princess, you're education and responsibilities should keep you here, where a lady should stay."

"Enough!" she laughed. "I'll leave in disguise so an improper Princess wouldn't embarrass you!" Meliora turned and tucked her pocketbook under arm.

The chamberlain fretted, not recognizing she goaded him on purpose. "But your studies and the Duke's visit this afternoon!"

"There'll always be tomorrow! Show the Duke to our gardens and ask him to enjoy the day. I'll see him in the evening." Meliora sang over her shoulder waltzing out the door, "Today's for Priletoria!"

"Wait!" the chamberlain's pleas found an empty hall.

Back in her chambers, Meliora requested a riding gown. Petra pulled a tan garment from storage. The Princess braided her chestnut locks and noticed traces of ink. She wrapped her hair in a scarf and donned the simple dress.

"Where are you off to today?"

"I think I'll ride to the nearest village in the east," Meliora answered.

Petra's eyes beamed, "My boyfriend grew up there!"

"Is he the young man in the stables?" Petra nodded. "Well then, take the rest of the day! Go see him!"

"Thank you, Mel!" Petra gave her a squeeze. She put away Meliora's day gown and disappeared.

Desiring company, Meliora marched to headquarters of the cadets' north camp. It lacked usual rambunctiousness. Four times a year, trainees were released on break. They were currently observing one. Even Kemuel had returned to the Land of the Seraphims to cure a bout of homesickness. He carried a letter from Meliora to her mother, promising to personally deliver it to the next Jema flight. Expecting to hear from her soon, Meliora bounced cheerfully.