Wielder Of Time

Khione woke to the soft sound of birds chirping outside her window, the morning light filtering in through the sheer curtains. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, she turned her head toward the clock on her desk. 9 AM.

She had about an hour and a half before they were set to meet Queen Nereia.

Pushing back the covers, she slipped out of bed, the cool air brushing against her skin as she stretched. Wasting no time, she made her way to the adjoining bathroom, where she took a quick shower, letting the warm water chase away any lingering drowsiness.

Once dressed in a formal yet comfortable outfit suited for an audience with the Queen, Khione stepped out of her room. As she walked down the hallway, she spotted a maid tidying up nearby.

"Is there breakfast in the dining hall?" Khione asked, her tone even.

The maid turned and bowed her head slightly. "Yes, my lady. Breakfast is still being served."

Khione nodded in thanks and made her way downstairs.

In the dining hall, a variety of dishes were laid out—freshly baked bread, fruits, cheeses, and a selection of meats. Opting for something light, she grabbed a plate of fruit and a small pastry, eating quickly.

She had no appetite for a heavy meal, not when she would soon be facing one of the most powerful figures in the Isles.

Not long after she finished eating, the doors to the manor opened, and Lady Evelyne and Lord Aldric entered, their expressions composed yet expectant. It was time.

Khione and Bella gathered their things and climbed into the waiting carriage. The ride to the castle was relatively silent, the only sounds coming from the rhythmic clatter of the wheels against the stone-paved roads.

Khione gazed out the window as the scenery shifted. The grand architecture of the Isles was unlike that of the Asterios Empire. While her homeland was known for its towering structures of marble and gold, the Isles held an elegance of their own—ornate buildings carved from dark stone, adorned with silver and sapphire accents that reflected the sea's influence.

As the carriage neared the castle, the towering spires came into view, their peaks disappearing into the cloudy sky. Guards lined the entrance, their dark blue uniforms pristine, their weapons polished to a gleam.

Upon arrival, they were escorted inside. The interior of the castle was just as impressive as the exterior—smooth obsidian floors, cascading banners bearing the crest of the Isles, and a faint scent of the ocean lingering in the halls.

Eventually, they arrived at the throne room.

The massive doors swung open, revealing an expansive chamber bathed in the soft glow of enchanted lanterns. The walls were adorned with intricate carvings of waves and sea creatures, a testament to the Isles' deep connection to the ocean. At the far end of the room, atop a raised platform, sat Queen Nereia.

Her silver-blue hair was styled elegantly, her dark navy gown embroidered with silver thread that shimmered under the light. Her presence alone commanded respect, her sharp, oceanic gaze assessing them the moment they entered.

Khione and Bella walked forward before stopping a respectful distance away. Instead of kneeling as the people of the Isles would, they lowered their heads slightly—an acknowledgment of her status, but also a subtle reminder that they were representatives of the Asterios Empire.

The Queen studied them for a moment before giving a single nod, accepting their greeting.

"Let us not waste time lingering here," Queen Nereia said, her voice smooth yet firm. "Follow me."

Without another word, she rose from her throne and walked toward a side door, her gown flowing behind her like rolling waves.

Khione and Bella exchanged a glance before following her through the corridor.

The meeting room they entered was far more intimate than the grand throne room. It was simple—two navy-blue couches faced each other with a dark wooden table between them, holding an assortment of snacks and a steaming pot of tea. A faint scent of citrus and herbs filled the space.

Khione had expected something more extravagant, but the simplicity spoke volumes. Queen Nereia was not a ruler who relied on unnecessary grandeur to assert her authority.

Once seated, the Queen wasted no time.

"The Asterios Empire," she began, pouring herself a cup of tea. "A land of immense power. It is the strongest empire in the world, its influence extending far beyond its borders. Even the Isles, despite our independence, have felt its presence."

She lifted the teacup to her lips, taking a measured sip before setting it down.

"Your Empire has shaped the course of history for centuries—conquering, forging alliances, dictating trade. Many nations rely on its stability, while others fear its strength. But regardless of how one views it, none can deny the reality: the Asterios Empire holds dominion over much of the known world."

Khione listened attentively, noting how the Queen spoke of the Empire. There was no resentment in her tone, nor admiration—only acknowledgment of an undeniable truth.

"Which brings us to the purpose of this meeting."

Queen Nereia leaned forward slightly, her piercing gaze settling on them.

"Tell me," she continued, "why do you think I wish to form an alliance with your Empire?"