Kyera and Raina returned to their meals. The child looking a bit fierce, riding the back of the large tiger. Kyera however, her mind and body tired from the emotional wreck, however her face was composed as though nothing had shaken her. Then again, perhaps it was nothing. Afterall, that woman had no connection to her and if she dared let Kyera catch wind she was going to harm this family, she's old and out of her prime. In the wild Death comes quick to those who taunt their young.
"Well, we should head for the palace. I am sure the Empress Dowager knows we are coming by now." Clovis was a bit reluctant even as he spoke. Tension would only climb at the Palace and honestly he questioned coming here yet again. He wanted nothing to do with that rat race of a place, and yet he felt there was no other choice. Heavy is the crown to bear to one born to rule.
"Remember to caller her Empress Vivian. There is no reason to hide that we already know." Kyera pointed out as she put the last couple leaf packs into her bag. She would save them for a snack later. Little Cub would definitely approve later, when Little Cub wished to feed again.
"I remember. It's just strange to think so much changed since we left." He shook his head slowly, and picked up Raina, carrying her through the market back to the carriage.
"It changed because we left. Eve finally stood up for herself and it made everyone look at what was going on more closely. Our job is to stay safe and make sure they don't forget who Empress Evelyn was, is and always will be." Kyera replied gently, but sternly. There was a sense of pride on her face.
"We also have another crown to keep in mind." Clovis pointed out as he took her hand. Kyera laced her fingers with his as they neared the carriage. She laughed.
"Trust me, whether it be Frost Land or Shadow Veil we can insult neither of their crowns. As long as we act with honor, no matter how vicious, both rulers will applaud us. Plus we gave both such a gorgeous grand baby." She smiled and kissed Raina's cheek to lighten the mood. Raina giggled and smiled as the family reboarded the carriage to continue the journey.
They talked and laughed about happy and sometimes silly things to pass the time of the half hour ride. However, the carriage came to a stop early and Clovis frowned looking out the window. Before he could ask, there was a knock at the carriage door. The serpent on Kyera's arm shifted suddenly alert.
"Princess, Prince I hate to intrude but there seems to be an issue. Guards are insisting to search the carriage." The voice was clearly Lazrin who seemed rather annoyed. Kyera looked concerned as she raised an eyebrow at Clovis.
"We have nothing to hide, but…" Kyera trailed off honestly intending on letting Clovis decide.
"But I am not going to let them shame you or I." Clovis opened the door and stepped out. "No, our carriage will not be searched. Talis, Ryo, Lyra protect the Princesses." He walked to Lazren's side where a burly guard with more brawn than brains awaited.
"Prince Clovis, welcome however, we must search your carriage. It is due to the hunt coming soon. Only members of the Royal family and their servants and the Empress's royal guests can enter the Palace. It is tradition." the guard seemed to be parroting back a spill he had been rehearsing for a while now. Even then, his delivery lacked any sort if class. Clovis nodded in understanding.
"I will not permit you to search my carriage, however I will verbally identify everyone in my party. That should suffice." Clovis replied rather accommodating. His tone was warm and friendly, understanding the guard had a job to do. At least, for the moment.
"That should suffice, as long as your party is approved." He agreed and Clovis nodded, this being the response he expected. He had a feeling he knew what the trouble they were going to cause would be.
"Three Gaurds, Captain of the Dancing Winds Gaurd, Lazren DeWulf, Second Ranalf Grove, and Chandler Kent. Four familiars, Talis, Ryo, Chain and Lya. Tiger, panther, snake and panther. Myself, Prince Clovis of the Dancing Winds, my wife Princess Kyera of the Dancing Winds, and my daughter Princess Raina of the Dancing Winds." Clovis counted everyone off and then patted the mare at his side "Oh and one nameless beauty."