Crossing of Clans

Chapter 3: Hests Law

What type of mess have I gotten myself into.
Realizing she was still in his arms, Zeph shoved Gai away. Attempting to hide her embarrassment she snarled,
"What type of fiancé tricks his future wife upon the first meeting? Tension is already high between our Clans, do you really want to start out this political relationship with lies?"
Gai folded his arms and exhaled deeply.
"This so called "tension" was already high when you knocked out half of my Royal guards. Don't get all snappy with me highness."
He looked her in the eye.
"That is unless you want me to snap back."
He winked slyly. Zeph stepped forward, just as she was about to lunge for him, an angry voice erupted from the entrance of the palace.
"GAI what in heavens name do you think you're doing?!"
The palace doors slammed open, and an elderly women appeared. She looked to be in her later years, a bit shorter in stature, Zeph couldn't make out any of her facial features because the woman's expression was so full of fury.
Attendants and various servants quickly began taking away the downed Earth Clan guards. Finally all that remained were Zeph, her steed, her guards, Gai, and the old woman, who continued to glare with spite.
Gai on the other hand seemed completely at ease. He scoffed and shrugged,
"Stop looking at me that way old woman, I was just testing her."
The woman seemed to seize up, Zeph prepared herself for the worst.
""TESTING HER!" The Empress of the Air Clan walks through our gates and the first thing you can think of, is to test her! The same goes for your guards! They were already informed of her highnesses physical appearance, they should have known better! And you, my gravelhead of a grandson should have stopped them!"
The woman then ran out of breath and began gasping for air. She turned to Zeph sharply.
"And you!"
Oh no.
"Welcome to the land of the Earth Clan, we're so glad to finally be able to meet you."
The woman smiled and bowed delicately. Well this is an unexpected character shift.
Smiling awkwardly, Zeph bowed in return.
"Now then! My name is Hest, but you may call me grandmother from here on out."
Zeph looked at Hest, then to Gai, then back to Hest. You've got to be kidding me. Are they all crazy?
"Yes...grandmother."
She cringed, great just great. I guess there is no backing out now.
"Good, now that that's settled, what's your name again dear?"
In a low voice she responded,
"Zeph."
Hests smile seemed to get even wider.
"Why what a beautiful name."
Zeph smiled and nodded slightly. Looking back towards the Air Clan guards Hest addressed them,
"We have quarters assigned for all of you and your horses, you shall be well taken care of. Follow this maid and she will take you there. Rest well."
The guards looked at Zeph for approval, she waved them off.
"Rest well Empress, just say the word and we will come."
And just like that, they were gone. Zeph glanced at Gai, who was looking anywhere else but her. How rude.
Hest spoke,
"Come inside you two. Gai escort her in."
Hest hobbled up the stairs and disappeared back through the doorway. Gai slowly approached and lifted his elbow, ignoring his gesture Zeph walked up the stairs and into the palace. Unphased, he followed close behind.
The palace was just as beautiful inside as it was on the outside. High ceilings, wooden floors covered with detailed rugs, and many many rooms. While walking Hest questioned,
"Have you eaten at all today Zeph?"
"Uh no I haven't."
She responded.
"Good, because I have an entire feast prepared for your arrival."
"We'll thank you Hes-...I mean Grandmother. "
Hest smiled warmly and patted Zephs hand.
"Happy to do it my dear. It's been so long since a woman of your stature has walked through these halls."
She seemed to sadden briefly, but then sprung back to hostess mode. They approached a closed off room at the end of the hallway. The smells coming from behind the door were amazing! Hest slid open the door.
"Ah, we're finally here. Let's eat before everything gets cold."
Before them was a massive table, laden with just about any food Zeph could think off. Her stomach silently yearned to start devouring every single plate, but she restrained herself.
"Please sit and enjoy!"
Zeph and Gai were seated on floor cushions across from each other, while Hest sat at the head of the table. They all ate and drank until they were satisfied. The dishes were cleared from the table and the trio were left there alone.
"Thank you grandmother, that was marvelous!"
Zeph said in a cheery tone.
"Your welcome my dear."
Resting his chin on his interlocked fingers Gai put his elbows on the table. He stared deep into Zephs eyes and said,
"Now that we're comfortable, let's talk business."
His dark sculpted forearms were only slightly distracting. Focus Zeph, we're in the middle of a war. The least thing you need to be focusing on is this jerks arms. In a silent, but noticeable retaliation, Zeph copied his posture.
"Agreed. The marriage contract isn't going to make itself."
She smiled half heartedly. Hest pulled out a piece of parchment and a cup of ink. She paused, pen above parchment, ready to write.
"Let's begin."

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