The Rise of a Hero & The Garnet Nightshade: A Violet Rose (Book 2)

Chapter II: Allies or Foes?

Elven Continent

Fros'tatia Castle

A week Earlier

POV: Sidora Deltestri

My name is Sidora Deltestri, third-born daughter to king Gabriel Deltestri, and Queen Sicileen Deltestri. The elven people like myself have spent thousands of years separated from all other races. My kind pride themselves on their intellect and mastery of magic. During the course of our history, we have been in contact with the Humans, Demi-Humans, and Beast-Folk during times of war. The human race had peace between them and the Demi-Humans for a long length of time, at least until a Suspected Demi-Human had killed a human.

No one could prove the person in question was truly a Demi-Human, so they killed them. Killing an innocent person without question sparked hatred between the two and a civil war soon ensued. With neither side gaining nor losing ground, a truce was called and the Demi-Humans moved to the far north of the human continent and made a new home. Sometime later another murder happened and the end result was the domain was brought to ruins, and the heir to the throne went missing. It wasn't until fifteen years ago that the only surviving member of the domain was found.

This brings us to where I'm at now. Elise (Lis'ra) Saura'Latia sent word by a familiar that an ambassador of the beast-folk has been sent to her wife's domain. My people, myself included, had suspected it for a while. There had been disturbing news of the princes of the beast-folk causing a stir since the three of them had been asked and tested to see which of them was best suited to rule once the king died. What started the strife was when the firstborn denounced his title, the second was war-hungry, and finally the third was too young and inexperienced.

The letter I received was from Elise, and Mira, which I found strange. I would have thought their children would have sent word first, but after reading what they had to say, I understood the importance of why they did it the way they did. The letter reads:

"Dear Princess Sidora,

You may already know who and what I am, but my wife and I need your help. We have received word from our daughter that an envoy from the beast-folk continent is on their way. They suspect foul play to be in play once they arrive or sometime shortly after. Mira and I both agree with them and we ask for your help should the need be raised. Mira and I will be departing for the domain in three days' time, so if at all possible, could you send word to our son Arsidian?

Sincerely,

Elise (Lis'ra) Saura'Latia"

Standing at the window of the study, I look out and see the three moons in their crescent form. I had talked to my mother and father about the letter I had received from Mira and Elise. My father was one to hold on to old ties and traditions. As for my mother, she was willing to hear me out. It has been a day and a half now since I've told them and still no reply. It was getting to the point I feared the worst.

"Lady Sidora, the queen wishes to speak with you in her study." States an attendant.

"My mother wishes to speak to me privately?"

"It would seem so. I would not keep her majesty waiting."

"I'll be on my way."

"Milady, whatever happens, be careful."

"I will."

Several minutes later

Queen's Study

(Knock, Knock)

"Come in" States a sweet voice.

"It's me, mother," I reply dryly.

"Ahh, I see my attendant found you. Good."