The ride back to the capital was swift, Rath and the other mounts pushing themselves to the limit. Clearly, everyone wanted to get back home to rest after the events of the day. I kept my gaze on the land below us for most of the trip, watching the landscape blur past with a sense of calm. Things were coming together and hopefully, after the war, I'd have some time for myself while I fixed and made the changes I said I was going to during the meeting I'd had. It felt like that had happened days ago but in reality, had only been over twenty fours ago.
The sun had begun peeking over the horizon by the time we got back to the palace. The roof of the birdcage was already open and we landed quickly, everybody getting off their mounts and stretching comfortably. A few riders who hadn't come with us came to greet their comrades and Asara quickly rushed to them and began speaking with them, probably explaining what had happened.
Before I left, I gathered them all around.
"Alright, so I've agreed," I said. "I'll be working things out with Asara soon, and before I go, I just want to thank all of you for your hard work and for fighting for me. You truly are the elite of Larra."
There was a small cheer at that and smiles all around while those who hadn't come with us looked confused. I trusted Asara to inform them. I turned and made my way to the exit, leaving Rath to relax in the birdcage and giving Asara a quick nod and smile before I did. She returned it with a wink.
Once I was outside the birdcage when I spotted the first guard, I ordered them to bring me Richard and Susana and headed for my rooms. The palace was quiet, with only servants and guards around since it was quite early, which would make this easier. The traitors would be sound asleep and wouldn't cause any trouble before they were apprehended.
I arrived at my rooms quickly, ignoring all the guards and servants. There were a few maids in the room, cleaning, and they all knelt at the sight of me. I ordered two to prepare me something to eat while sending the others off with a wave.
Once they had all left, I fell into a seat with a groan, resting my head against its back and enjoying the fresh air and warmth of the room.
"So, boss," Leone said. "Food then fun?"
I snorted at her words and nodded. "Food then fun. Best if bring them out now, huh?"
I summoned Domino and Blair who took one look at me then at Leone's smirking face before they both smiled.
"So he agreed?" Domino asked.
"Yep," Leone replied. "To all three of us."
"I look forward to it, master," Blair purred.
"Food then fun," I said, getting a chuckle from Domino and Blair. "We have some traitors to sort out and I need to give a few orders to Richard and Susana. After that's done we can retreat to my bed and the fun can begin."
Domino opened her mouth to respond to my words but was cut off as the door opened and Richard and Susana, entered the room. They both knelt when they saw me and I motioned them to rise with a gesture.
"It's good to see you back, your majesty," Richard said.
"And to see you are unharmed," Susana added. "Am I correct in saying that all went well?"
"Better then well," I said. "It was a trap and we became surrounded by half of Biroth's forces. They used a dual-essence beacon to transport them but in the end, it didn't help them. I used my power to crush the army and with the riders helping we made sure there were no survivors. Birth is on his way here and he will be dealt with soon, but that's not the main reason as to why I've called you."
They both nodded at my words. It was obvious they were trying to mask their shock but I could tell from the looks in their eyes.
"A dual-essence beacon," Susana muttered. "The cost must have been large. Biroth truly is a fool."
"Indeed," Richard agreed.
"There are traitors in the palace," I said, getting their attention back on me. "Lillian Bornes, Dugress Venhim, and General Matin."
Richard and Susana blinked in clear surprise.
"Are you certain, your majesty?" Richard asked, not hiding his shock this time.
"Of Lillian and Dugress, yes, of Matin, not completely," I said. "But I still want you to apprehend all three. I want it done immediately and quietly. I will take over his duties for now."
"Of course, your majesty," Susana replied. "We will do so right away."
"Good," I said. "I trust that all has been well in my absence?"
"It been quiet for the most part," Richard said. "Everyone seems to be waiting to see what will happen before they act, though I imagine once news spread of your victory the fort, many views will change."
That was better than rioting or trouble caused by the nobles. I could deal with them, but I preferred to do so after the war not while it was occurring.
After a few more words they both bowed and left the room. A servant appeared a moment later and informed me that the dining room was ready and food had been prepared. I stood and stretched before motioning for her to lead the way.
Domino, Leone, and Blair took up positions around me as we walked, each giving me smirks and smiles. I keep all my thoughts clear, not wanting to let my mind roam until after I'd eaten.
There was plenty of food ready in the dining hall and we ate in silence for the most part before retreating back to my room.
Once we entered, Leone closed the door behind us and I took a seat on the bed facing them. They all glanced at each other then back at me with smiles.
"Time for fun," They all said in unison.
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