Classified (UNDER CONSTRUCTION)

File 2, Part 7 - Her Imperial Majesty

The day of my older sister's departure finally arrived, casting a heavy shadow over the palace. It was the first time in years I had seen its grand halls so subdued. The usual hum of activity had given way to an eerie quiet, broken only by the soft shuffling of feet and muted whispers. Servants, nobles, and guards alike gathered outside to witness the Empress and her army as they prepared to embark on their fateful journey.

The soldiers, clad in gleaming, full-plated armor, and their white horses, formed an impenetrable wall around a grand, white carriage. At the center of it all was the Empress herself—an imposing figure of grace and strength. Her armor was unlike the others: a long, layered, plated skirt shimmered with hints of silver, and a mantle of pristine white fur draped elegantly over her shoulders. Her piercing blue eyes swept across the palace grounds, commanding respect and devotion in equal measure.

"My brave companions," she began, her voice cutting through the crisp morning air like a clarion call. It carried strength, conviction, and a touch of warmth. "Today, we ride not for conquest, but for the honor of our people and the safety of our homes. The enemy believes they can shatter our spirit, but they do not know the unyielding strength of our hearts."

A hushed stillness fell over the crowd as she continued, her words resonating deeply.

"Stand tall, for we bear the hopes of every man, woman, and child who look to us for protection. We fight not for glory, but for justice—for the very future of this kingdom."

With a swift motion, she raised her scepter high, its jeweled tip catching the pale light of the overcast sky.

"Ride with me, as one. Together, we will show the world the true meaning of fortitude. For glory, for honor, and for our land—onward to victory!"

"Victory!" The crowd echoed, their voices a mix of fervent pride and underlying anxiety. Yet, even as the resounding cheers filled the air, murmurs of apprehension rippled through the gathering.

What forces could threaten the palace so gravely? Would the guards standing resolute today fall in battle? Would the Empress herself, the unyielding symbol of their strength, emerge unscathed—or would she fall in the battle against the white dragon?

The questions hung heavy in the cold air, unspoken but felt by all. For now, the people could only watch as their Empress, their hope, disappeared into the horizon, her fierce determination the only shield against the uncertainties ahead.

While my sister was away, I assumed her responsibilities and reinforced the palace's security. To ensure my survival, I drank antitoxin potions daily, wore protective linings to guard against daggers, and secretly trained in shooting pistols, throwing knives, and hand-to-hand combat. I also dedicated time to researching ways to improve the effectiveness of my potions and barriers.

For the most part, things proceeded smoothly, save for a few minor logistical hiccups. But there was one disturbing report from a guard - someone was plotting to harm the gardener.

I froze. For a moment, I couldn't fathom why anyone would want to harm a harmless servant, someone who had nothing of value to be extorted. But as the guard continued his story, the reason became horrifyingly clear.

He explained that he had overheard a tall, hooded man speaking with one of the black-market sellers. The man had requested a specific poison, though the guard hadn't caught its name. The seller, intrigued, asked why it was needed.

In response, the hooded man dangled a large bag of coins and jewels before the seller and revealed his motive. According to him, the Empress's pleasantries with the duke were nothing but a bluff. Before departing for the dragon campaign, she had secretly met with the gardener between the palace walls late at night. There, they shared unabashedly affectionate goodbyes—tears, lingering gazes, caresses, embraces, kisses, and more.