253 Wild Highlands

Del Lagos Southern Border

Asai and his two companions had been making steady progress. Eager to return home, for rest and respite. However, rather than the warm greeting he was expecting, at the borders of Del Lagos, Rosemi's father and his company were laying in wait. His black and purple banners flew high enough for the returnees to notice from afar.

Rosemi rode on ahead in excitement.

"My darling Rose. How did it go? A success I hope." The man, riding upon his own mighty steed inquired, knowingly. A slight blush crept upon her cheeks as she inspected her father's new gears.

"You're also interested in Trichia's fashion? It's comfy isn't it?" If she could, she would dive into the man's arms. However, as the two were on horses, it was quite inconvenient to do so.

The man nodded, before leaning over to her.

"What sounds like a sneeze and is made of leather?"

"Dad?"

"A shoe." A big fat grin spread across the man's face. As he struggled to hold his own laughter.

"Come, ride along. There's news I've been ordered to deliver to Asai."

Asai now having caught up, entered the centre of their company. As they began to escort them back into the kingdom.

"Your Grace, Jeffrey De Lumix. I thank you for personally picking us up. If you don't mind me asking, what do I owe the pleasure to?"

"Duke Trichia, the pleasure is mine. However, I hate to break it to you, but I came to deliver urgent news. Your vassals Robin and Chloe have been conscripted, and marched north along with His Highness, to fight our enemies, and defend Thrud Castle, the new bastion to the north. The last report I've received, the fighting appears to be escalating in intensity.

As I understand, you're a man of action. I'm certain you would want to immediately march north to join your people. However, within a month's time, there will be a gathering within Einhoren. The crown has called upon all high-nobility to remain on standby, to attend.

As you're the only member of house Trichia, you are required to head to the capital, and stay within your allotted manor. 

My question is, what will you do?"

Duke Jeffrey smiled, seemingly excited to hear the young man's answer. "If you're to be with my sweet baby Rose. I have to know, will you chose your loyalty to the crown and kingdom, or prioritize your friends and people."

..

Whatever identity crisis discord Asai was going through, all thoughts of it immediately faded as he  realised Robin could potentially be in danger. He was aware of the incoming dhan invasion thanks to Kozumi's invitation to defect. 

"Robin isn't exactly weak, I can trust her to look after herself well enough. But, if an entire army of dhans attack her position, then in all honesty. I can't bring myself to trust Victor Del Lagos to protect her, that man had already lost one war, what would make him win this one?

One month on standby in the capital, and then possibly days or weeks of attending meetings as nobles playfully navigate dialogue?"

"I will immediately head north. I thank you for informing me Duke Jeffrey. Please, do apologise to Her Majesty for me. I'm sure she'll understand that I am placing the kingdom's interests first over my own political standing."

Duke Jeffrey nodded in affirmation. "Rose, stay with me. You have your own orders, and you still need to write your report for the past months."

The man turned his attention back to Asai. "Asai. I've prepared multiple relay points throughout our kingdom, my men will be waiting for you to swap your horse at each point. Go fast, and do what you must." The man saluted, receiving a salute in return.

Rosemi De Lumix looked towards Violet. "Violet, go with him. In my place, protect and care for him okay?"

Violet, not really having any choice to begin with nodded.

Rosemi watched as the two began to pressure their horses onwards.

...

"My sweet Rose."

"Yes father?"

"Do you know why I never trust the stairs?" Rosemi shifted her glance away from the departing Asai, to her fathers blue sapphire eyes in confusion.

"No, why?"

"Because, they're always up to something."

"..."

kophzi