Wielder Of Time

The first rays of sunlight crept through the window, casting a golden hue across the room. Khione stirred, blinking away the remnants of sleep as she sat up. The sky outside was painted in soft shades of pink and orange, signaling the early hours of the morning.

She sighed, running a hand through her silver hair. The day's events wouldn't begin for a few hours, leaving her with an expanse of time to fill.

After dressing in a simple outfit, she stepped out of her room and wandered through the halls until she reached the garden at the manor's center. The cool morning air greeted her as she walked across the grass, eventually lowering herself onto the soft earth.

Lying on her back, she gazed up at the sky. The clouds drifted lazily, their shapes shifting with the wind.

"I'm bored," she muttered to herself.

The thought of venturing into the capital crossed her mind—perhaps she could find something interesting to pass the time. But the image of Bella's disapproving glare quickly extinguished that idea. Sneaking off without an escort would undoubtedly earn her a long lecture, one she had no desire to sit through.

With a sigh, she sat up, brushing a few blades of grass off her clothes. If she couldn't explore, she might as well see if the manor's library had anything worth reading.

Upon arriving at the library, she let her eyes wander over the neatly arranged shelves. The collection was extensive, though not as vast as the one back home in the Briston estate.

She ran her fingers along the spines of the books before selecting one at random. It was a historical account of the Isles, detailing their political evolution and cultural traditions. Not the most thrilling read, but informative nonetheless.

Book in hand, she returned to the garden, settling beneath the shade of a large tree. The pages turned as she immersed herself in the text, absorbing details about past rulers, maritime trade, and the long-standing rivalries between noble houses.

Time passed swiftly, and before she knew it, a maid appeared before her with a polite bow.

"Lady Briston, breakfast has been prepared."

Khione closed the book, stretching as she stood. "Understood."

She made her way to the dining hall, where Bella arrived moments after she took her seat. The vice-captain wasted no time, immediately addressing her.

"Are you ready to handle today's diplomacy?"

Khione nodded, keeping her response short.

Bella gave her an approving look. "Good. To review our schedule, we'll be meeting with some of the nobility before the banquet tonight. We leave in an hour."

With that, breakfast commenced. The meal was simple yet satisfying, consisting of fresh fruit, bread, and a selection of fish native to the Isles. Khione ate methodically, her mind already shifting toward the meeting ahead.

After finishing, she returned to her room to dress appropriately for the occasion. She chose a refined but practical outfit, ensuring that she looked presentable without appearing overly extravagant.

By the time she descended the stairs once more, the familiar figures of Lady Evelyne and Lord Aldric were waiting in the entryway.

Khione approached them, offering a polite greeting.

"Good morning, Lady Briston," Evelyne said with a pleasant smile. "I trust you slept well?"

"Well enough," Khione replied.

Bella arrived shortly after, prompting Evelyne to begin outlining the details of the upcoming meeting.

"You will be meeting with Duke Everard, a prominent noble within the Isles. His influence is significant, particularly in matters concerning trade and naval affairs."

Khione absorbed the information without interruption.

"His daughter, Seraphine, has decided to accompany him today," Evelyne continued. "She holds no official role in this meeting but expressed interest in attending."

"And the Prince?" Bella asked.

"The third Prince, Cassian Voss. He is not here to negotiate but rather to observe and gain experience. The Duke will be leading the discussion."

Khione and Bella exchanged a glance before nodding in acknowledgment.

With the briefing concluded, they exited the manor and boarded a carriage alongside the two representatives. The journey to the castle was brief, the streets already bustling with early morning activity.

Upon arrival, they were escorted through the grand halls until they reached a large meeting chamber. Despite the spaciousness of the room, only seven people were present.

Seated at the far end of the table were Duke Everard, his daughter Seraphine, and Prince Cassian.

Bella stepped forward first, offering a courteous introduction. "Vice-Captain Bella of the Asterios Empire."

Khione followed suit, her tone measured. "Khione Briston."

The Duke, a man of sturdy build with sharp eyes, returned the greeting with a nod. "Duke Everard of the Isles."

Beside him, Seraphine, a young woman with wavy auburn hair and bright green eyes, offered a polite smile. "Seraphine Everard."

Lastly, the Prince introduced himself. "Cassian Voss." His voice was composed, carrying an air of quiet observation.

With pleasantries exchanged, the two representatives moved to the side, leaving the primary figures to take their seats at the table.

Duke Everard clasped his hands together, his expression serious yet composed.

"Let us begin."