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

Chapter III: Third Born Prince

Lis'ra Castle

Assembly hall

POV: Arsidian Lis'ra

I had received word from the elven king that he would be sending his third-born daughter as a "guest" so no tensions would arise from our current "guests". My sister had left the moment I told her. It was a wise choice to send her due to the simple fact she could slip in and out of the domain undetected. She held some authority in the domain which gave her the opportunity to meet with our mothers in their domain. Our mother Mira held citizenship here, as well as Faus'Latia, as did our mother Elise. The beast-folk ambassador has made their way with me to the castle.

Alyssa's mission was simple. She was to meet with the elven princess and bring her here. Once here we would discuss why the beast-folk have come to us. It was paramount for all nations and races to be present. My sister and I suspect the beast-folk ambassador is a ploy for a bigger plan. If they are at war with each other for the succession of the throne then setting a stage for war would be the best way to do just that.

The prince was young, but not naive enough to think his older brother wouldn't try anything in his absence. His father was old but had years of experience to understand the mind of a war-hungry mongrel. The king wanted to remain at peace with all the countries and their respected inhabitants, as did his youngest son. I understood that. I was given the throne at a young age as was my mother.

I learned over a short period though, that not everything will remain peaceful and we have to be prepared for when war is at our doorstep. And now is that time. Peace has lasted for twenty years, with little to no major conflicts to speak of. Even the domain of violet nightingales has reconciled. Lady Raine had become I'll, and since she had no heir to take her place, her personal attendant took over. A long-time friend to our family, the attendant didn't want to continue the hostility, so she had sent an envoy to discuss the possibility of opening their borders to us once again.

I was still new to running the domain and wasn't sure what to do, so I asked my mother what she thought should be done. Her response was what should have come naturally, so I told the new ruler that we would welcome them in good faith and that if the need for their assistance arrived, they'd give it willingly and without question.

They agreed to our proposition, and trade began almost immediately. Several years later news reached us that Lady Raine had passed away. I was not one to hold a grudge, so we held a memorial service in her name.

"Sire, the prince is waiting." States an attendant.

"Forgive me, I was lost in thought. Let him in."

The attendant heads to the doors and opens them. The prince stood there with a look of discomfort. To my chagrin, I stand and give a deep bow of apology.

"There is no need for that. It is my fault for being hasty. For us beast-folk, patience has never been a strong point." States the prince.

"Nonetheless, it's not proper for me to have a guest wait."

"Your parents raised you well. It's good to see I'm in good company."

"I'll let them know when they arrive."

"So, is it true that the previous ruler and her spouse are coming?"

"It is. My sister had an errand to run in regards to that as well. I hope, in good faith, that you wouldn't mind holding a continental conference?"

"Personally, I do not mind. My retainers might." Adds the prince.

"Should I call it off then? I don't want anyone to feel pressured."