REALMS OF DISCORD

Friend

The rain had just stopped and people were getting back to their normal routines. Flower vendors opening their doors  a few minutes ago whole customers walked in with their elegant clothes and detailed requests. The streets was slowly coming back to life with children taking that time to splash around inThe carriage glided along the damp path of Eya Town, its wheels creating ripples in the shallow puddles that adorned the beautifully paved roads. The golden towers of the town shimmered in the puddles, captivating the attention of children who joyfully jumped and played around them, taking advantage of the post-rain atmosphere. As the rain subsided, shops began to reopen, embracing the dawn-like resurgence. Determined vendors meticulously arranged their finest displays, hoping to catch the eyes of passersby, for the skies promised a rainless evening ahead.

Gera halted the carriage near a charming flower shop, where he carefully selected a vibrant purple bouquet of hydrangeas, destined for his long-lost friend. Flashing a smile at the vendor, he gratefully accepted the flowers, thoughtfully wrapped in brown paper, into his own hands. Such tasks were typically delegated to his servant, but after years of not seeing Yango, he yearned to personally handpick the freshest blossoms from the shop.

Contemplating whether the bougainvillea bush outside her window had survived, Gera's anticipation heightened as they ascended the castle road. The grand mansion atop the hill was impossible to overlook, and the mere thought of reuniting with his best friend brought a warm smile to his face. The gates swung open, revealing a meticulously manicured lawn. The path leading to the front of the house was adorned with red banners, adorned with the image of a lion's head. Imposing guards, donning the proud red colors of Eya, stood at attention, punctuating the scene.

Guided to the guest hall, Gera followed the familiar procedure, knowing well Mambo's penchant for particularity. From the top of the hall stairs, Yango's voice resounded, "Took you long enough to come see me." Gera turned to face her, a giddy smile illuminating her face.

"It's only been a week since you returned," he replied, his own smile growing wider.

Yango hastened towards him, her arms outstretched, eagerly welcoming him into a warm embrace. Slightly shorter than him, she wore a dark brown leather vest over a black long-sleeve top and matching pants. The red-trimmed shoulder pads showcased her allegiance to their land, and a streak of red adorned her short bob-cut hair.

"It's been years, maybe 15 or so. You've truly grown," he remarked, returning the embrace.

"We've been in constant communication," she replied, reluctantly releasing him and noticing the bouquet in his hands. "And it seems you never forgot my favorite."

"Jelly never let me forget," he jokingly replied, but his observant nature detected a shift in Yango's mood. She held the flowers close to her and gestured for them to leave the bustling hall, seeking a more secluded space. Gera silently followed, his curiosity piqued.

They entered the study room, where bookshelves adorned the walls from floor to ceiling. Mambo had instilled a love for reading in her daughters, ensuring a vast collection of books graced the room. "I haven't missed this room at all," Yango commented, settling onto the sofa that faced the window. "I can't believe I've read about 60 percent of these books," she added, finding comfort in the familiar surroundings.

"Tell me you have it," Gera whispered, his voice filled with urgency, mindful of prying ears.