Khione paced the front courtyard of the Briston Estate, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows across the neatly manicured lawns. Her thoughts raced as she waited for her father's return from the council meeting, anxious to hear news about the conflict in the Golden Marches.
As dusk settled, Duke Briston finally arrived, his shoulders heavy with the weight of the day. Khione hurried to meet him, her pulse quickening with anticipation.
"Father," she called out, her voice edged with worry, "how did the meeting go? What happened in the Golden Marches?"
Duke Briston's stern expression softened at the sight of his daughter. "Let's walk, Khione," he said, gesturing towards the garden path. "There is much to discuss."
They strolled along the path, the fragrant scent of blooming flowers surrounding them. Duke Briston began to speak, his voice steady but laced with tension. "The Lyrion forces advanced as we expected, and our Imperial Sky Fleet met them head-on. The battle was intense, with spells flying and soldiers clashing."
Khione pictured the chaotic scene, her father's words painting a vivid image. "And then what?" she asked, her curiosity driving her.
"The storm played a cruel hand," Duke Briston continued. "While it battered our troops, the Lyrion forces seemed almost unaffected. Our men struggled, and then something incredible happened."
He paused, his eyes distant. "The sands erupted, and from beneath them emerged the Ret Raja. The first one let out a screech so piercing it froze the Lyrion troops in their tracks."
Khione's breath caught. "The Ret Raja? I thought they were just legends."
Duke Briston nodded grimly. "They're very real. Massive, ancient beasts that have slept beneath the sands for centuries. They tore through the Lyrion ranks with venom and ferocity, leaving chaos in their wake."
Khione tried to process the revelation. "Did they attack our forces too?"
"No," Duke Briston said, shaking his head. "They didn't touch our troops. They halted their pursuit about ten miles back and vanished back into the sand. No one, not even the Emperor, knows why."
He hesitated, choosing his next words carefully. "Aero Stormwing mentioned an encounter where he pledged to protect the Ret Raja. It seemed one of them acknowledged him. Whether that's why they spared us, or if there's another reason, we don't know."
Khione absorbed the information, her mind swirling. "Will the war continue?" she asked quietly.
Duke Briston sighed, looking weary. "Yes, Khione. The Emperor has decided to hold our position. The Lyrion Empire will regroup and strike again, but we'll be ready. The Ret Raja gave us a brief respite, but this war is far from over."
Khione nodded, determination and fear battling within her. The looming conflict felt heavy, but she steeled herself. She needed to be strong—for her family, her empire, and herself.