As the day passed, Leviashivae found himself deeply engrossed in the process of rebuilding the connection with Dorea. Each moment spent with her felt like a small victory, a step closer to healing the wounds that had separated them.
Inside their shared space, away from the bustling activities of the village, they engaged in heartfelt discussions and shared moments of quiet reflection. Leviashivae even requested Nana-Roi to schedule meetings with the village elders. Luckily for him, the dryad women felt happy to help him.
Despite Dorea's initial reluctance to open up fully, Leviashivae persisted with patience and understanding. He listened intently to her thoughts and concerns. Throughout their interactions, he began to unravel the layers of her inner turmoil, gaining insight into her pain and longing.
The passage of time brought gradual progress, marked by small gestures of trust and understanding exchanged between them. Leviashivae cherished these moments, recognizing the significance of each step taken toward reconciliation. Though their journey was far from over, he remained steadfast in his commitment to being there for Dorea.
"So, Nana-Roi, any word from the elders about our meeting?" asked Leviashivae as he watched Nana-Roi drink her tea.
"Yes, they've agreed to meet with you on the day we've chosen for the investigation," Nana-Roi answered with a sour face. This embarrassing behavior alone will justify her dislike of them. Never in her life has she known someone who refuses or delays their meeting with a higher being like a dragon.
"Why not sooner? We could use their insights before venturing into the forest again."
"Believe me, I tried. But the elders seem adamant about waiting until then. I'm as puzzled as you are." Nana-Roi sighs heavily.
Leviashivae nodded his head, as he accepted the meeting date. "Hmm... Seems like they have their reasons. Well, I suppose we'll have to make do with what we have."
"Let's hope their insights are worth the wait. So, we move our investigation to next week." Nana-Roi said the word in a tone full of disappointment.
"Patience Nana-Roi. I understand that you are very curious about the place, and caution is also needed so that we don't miss a clue that has a big impact on our investigation."
Nana-Roi finally agreed with Leviashivae that it was best to let the matters go for now, but her unease was evident as she shifted uncomfortably in her chair. Her gaze drifted towards the bedroom where Dorea and Tama-Yui were engrossed in their play, their laughter filling the room.
After a moment of silence, she turned back to Leviashivae, her expression troubled. "My Lord, forgive me for asking, but how is the princess faring? She seems... dare I say more happy?"
"Ah yes, she is healing just fine."
"Oh, I'm glad that you are able to succeed in reaching her and fixing your relationship. Are you going to teach her magic?" Nana-roi asked the dragon out of curiosity. Usually, in the tradition of the dryard, the children will be taught magic when they turn ten years old.
"I am already planning on it, but as you said, I did not want to force her more than this. For now, our relationship is more important, and teaching her without a common respect for one another is a waste of time." Leviashivae answers truthfully, still with his impassive tone.
"Well, I quite agree with your decision. Tell me, Lord Leviahivae, what did you think about our village so far?"
Leviashivae considered the question, his gaze shifting as he contemplated his response. "The village is... intriguing," his voice reflecting his cautious assessment. "There is a sense of unity among the dryads, a strong bond that runs deep within their community. However, there are also underlying tensions, especially regarding their relationship with outsiders and the half-blood."
"Yes, that was truly spot on, my Lord." She said sheepishly.
"I sense a certain hesitance towards change, a reluctance to embrace new ideas or alliances. Yet, there is also a resilience here, a determination to preserve their way of life despite external pressures." He glanced at Nana-Roi, gauging her reaction before continuing. "Overall, I believe there is potential for growth and cooperation, but it will require patience and understanding from both sides."
Nana-Roi nodded, a sense of satisfaction evident in her expression. "I'm glad to hear that, Lord Leviashivae," she replied warmly. Leviashivae returned her smile with a nod of appreciation.
Nana-Roi's radiant face became full of nostalgia in an instant. Leviashivae waited patiently for what the woman would share with him.
"I'm sorry. I did not know why suddenly I remembered my father," she said with a somber tone.
"It's alright," Leviashivae replied softly, his eyes reflecting a gentle understanding.
"Sometimes memories have a way of resurfacing when we least expect them."
Nana-Roi's voice wavered slightly as she delved into the depths of her family's history. "My father was a brave man," she began, her tone tinged with both pride and sorrow. "He believed in fighting for what was right, even if it meant sacrificing everything he held dear."
Leviashivae listened intently, his gaze fixed on Nana-Roi as she recounted the tale of her father's courage.
"He led our people with honor and integrity," she continued softly in the quiet room. "But when the time came to choose a new leader, the decision tore our village apart. Father chose to remain on the battlefield and then placed the leader title to my uncle. There was someone that disagreed with the decision, but what happened, happened."
The dragon nodded in understanding, sensing the weight of Nana-Roi's words. "It's never easy when tradition clashes with change," he remarked, his voice low and measured.
Nana-Roi's eyes bore into his, a flicker of emotion dancing in their depths. "No, it isn't," she agreed solemnly. "But my uncle... He guided us through those dark times, even though the burden weighed heavily on his shoulders."
"Your uncle sounds like a remarkable man," he remarked, his voice tinged with admiration.
Nana-Roi nodded, a sense of pride swelling within her chest. "He is," she affirmed, her voice filled with quiet reverence. "And he's been my rock ever since I was a child. I just... the empty throne in that place really was a low blow to me. If really the elders tried to single him out."
Leviashivae nodded understandingly, a flicker of concern crossing his features. "I can only imagine how difficult that must be for you," he said sympathetically. "It's never easy to see someone you care about facing unjust treatment."
Nana-Roi sighed, her gaze drifting to the window as she contemplated the situation. "Thank you for listening, Lord Leviashivae," she said gratefully, turning back to him. "It means a lot to me to have someone to share my concerns with."
Leviashivae offered her a small, reassuring smile. "Of course, Nana-Roi. You can always count on me to lend an ear," he assured her. "And if there's anything I can do to help, please don't hesitate to ask."
Nana-Roi expressed her gratitude once again, her voice laced with sincerity as she thanked Leviashivae for his understanding and support. As she called out to Tama-Yui, her tone softened, coaxing him gently to accompany her home. At first, Tama-Yui hesitated, reluctant to leave behind the newfound warmth and companionship. With a firm yet loving reprimand from Nana-Roi, he relented, casting one last wistful glance at Dorea before following her out.
"Oh, I almost forgot. Here for you, Dorea." the little boy said as he reached into his pocket and withdrew a beautifully crafted flute, its delicate curves and intricate carvings a testament to his skill. With a proud grin, he presented it to Dorea, his eyes shining with excitement as he declared it to be his own creation. "I made this for you," he announced proudly to her.
Dorea's eyes widened in surprise and gratitude as she accepted the gift, her fingers tracing the smooth surface of the flute with wonder. "Thank you, Tama-Yui," she murmured softly, her voice filled with genuine appreciation.
Leviashivae turned his questioning gaze to Nana-roi who was trying to avoid the gaze.
With promises to return the next day, Tama-Yui bid farewell, his footsteps echoing softly as he disappeared into the night. As the door closed behind them, a sense of quiet settled over the room, the warmth of their presence lingering in the air long after they had gone.
"Did you enjoy yourself today, Dorea?"
The girl nodded her head, recounting how Tama-Yui had regaled her with stories about their pet cat and canary, amusing tales of their misadventures and unlikely friendship. As she spoke, her eyes sparkled with delight, and Leviashivae couldn't help but feel a warmth spread through his chest at the sight.
As Dorea finished her tale, Leviashivae's eyes reflected the warmth of her smile. "That sounds like quite the adventure," he remarked, his voice laced with genuine amusement. "It seems Tama-Yui has quite the knack for storytelling."
Dorea nodded eagerly, her enthusiasm contagious. "Yes, he does! He has so many stories to tell, and they're all so interesting," she exclaimed, her eyes shining with admiration for her newfound friend.
"I'm glad you made a friend here. I do feel like I got a new friend just like you."