The War of Empires

Chapter 4

The Autumn leaves were falling when Syrera reached the square. It was one of the most ancient parts of the city. The buildings had ivy growing all over them and out of the upper windows, washing was hanging. The grand tree in the far corner of the square was said to be one of the oldest trees in Tamunia, it was a wonder why Paege of Shilli hadn't cut it down when she had taken over.

The tree was said to signify the city and on a day like this Syrera was not shocked to see it crowded with tourists.

The square was also crowded with many of the city's inhabitants and the streets that lead to the square also were filled to breaking point with people. At least she had an audience.

The carriage shuttered to a halt and she exited as the square filled with applause. The crowd parted, giving her a walkway to the temporary stage that sat at the far end of the square.

It was also a wonder why Ravyne and Padala had let her out so soon. She thought she would have had to put up a big fight when she told them that she was going to afresh her people, but all they did was nod and help her out of bed.

The cheers of the crowd where deafening. As she walked through the crowd and up to the stage she was met with countless curtsies and bows. She stopped to accolade a few, and after several minutes made it it the stage.

Looking up she saw Ravyne standing in the shadow of the archway that led into the square, toying with a bow. She knew that there would also be several of Ravynes 'silent army*' waiting in the shadows around the clearing, watching and waiting, just in case anything went wrong. Syrera also had several daggers strapped to her legs just incase something was to go wrong.

"I'm sorry," were the first words that exited Syreras mouth, "I'm sorry, for this to have happened to our growing empire so soon after our defeat of Paege. I should have been more careful,  and made sure that there was no possible way for her to fight back. I didn't kill her, out of pity, she seemed week, so all I did was lock her away, not knowing the dangers she held." The crowd was deathly silent. "That's why I will do everything in my power to keep you safe," she continued, "but to do that you must assist me. Please don't leave stay out to late. This is for your safety. Until Paege has been found and no longer a threat we need you to be extra careful. Lock your doors and windows. Please be safe, and don't worry, we will find her. I will fix my mistake."

The crowd rose into deafening cheers and made a path for her as she descended the stage. Syreras eyes glimmered as she watched her people look at her with such pride and trust. That was until her eyes fell on the face of a man and all she could see was hate and malice. She diverted her eyes quickly and looked down. Ravyne has seen her expression though and quickly signaled one of her silent army slowly made her way over the where the man stood.

Syrera didn't see much more as she entered to carriage and left the square. But she did see the man exiting the square and Ravyne desperately looking for him.

***

The sound of Ravynes violin drove through the house as she played. It was what you might call a hobbie. She played when she was stressed or when she was angry. It was how she let her emotions out. The violin squeaked and Ravyne hastily put it down and straightened up, just as there was a knocking at the door. One of her silent gaurds no doubt. Hopefully giving her good news, something like, 'we got him'.

She opened the door quickly and then ducked as a fist hurtled towards her. Her leg came in contact with the knee of the aggressor and he hit the floor with a thwack.  He quickly got back onto his feet but not fast enough because Ravyne had her bow cocked and aimed and at his forehead.

"Well I'll be damned," she almost laughed, " the guy I have been looking for, do you want a cup of tea or something."

And with that her knee hit it's mark and her fell again. Ravyne stomped on his head and he lost consciousness.

***

The dragon and it's rider flew along the cliffs. The ocean bellow crashing against them. The dragons crimson scales shone in the sunset, and the riders black leather outfit seemed to merge with the darkening sky. They had been flying for hours now, just to see the sunset.

The dragon hovered in mid air for a second before diving towards the water. The rider gave a woop of joy as the dragon pulled up and hovered again, the breeze holding them steady.

But she could feel that there was a change in te wind. And it didn't feel good. Something was wrong and she didn't like it.

N/A
How did you like this chapter? I think this is my fave so far, apart from the prologue.

Remember to vote and comment.

Izzy

* the silent army is a branch of the royal army that is used for spying. They are trained from a young age and are born into the profession.