Ignis sighed deeply. She was sitting on her chair with her head on the study desk. Since morning she was learning about the wedding rituals and vows and had just taken a short break. She felt a presence beside her and turned her head without lifting it from the desk.
"Drink this milk, you will feel better" Princess Jenna was standing with a glass of milk.
"Princess, I believe this milk is for you" Ignis smiled at the little girl.
"The maid said that the milk is for the Princess but she didn't mention which Princess. Also, it looks like you need it more than me - " Jen started her carefully thought explanation to avoid the milk.
"Jen, why have you not finished your milk yet?" Roana hurriedly walked into the room and was shocked to see the glass still full. "Stop with your conspiracies and drink the milk at once".
Jen made a disgusted face and started to drink the milk. Ignis encouraged her till she finished it.
"Ignis, I heard that the jewelers have completed the order and your wedding and reception dress is also ready. We just need to check the final fitting. Also, we will need to go to the temple tomorrow to meet the Priest and register your name." Roana started reading a few reports and letters that she just received.
"Don't we need Adrian for that?" Ignis sat up with excitement. It's been two days since he left. The idea of seeing him soon brought vigor to her. After leaving for the expedition, there was no news of him and everyone continued their work as if his existence didn't matter. Ignis herself didn't feel the need to contact him but after two days of waiting, she is starting to feel the anxiety.
"No we do not need him for such trivial things. We just need to show your face to the Priest and take the Goddess's blessing. Adrian can do that once he comes back" Roana continued without looking up from the reports.
Ignis slump down back on the desk.
"Why don't you write him a letter if you miss him so much?" Roana chuckled, still reading the letter in her hand.
"What? Letter?" Ignis was surprised by her sudden suggestion but soon waved her hand dismissively. "I don't need to, he will be back soon".
"You can stop acting now Princess. It's just not me but everyone can tell how much you miss him. Write him a letter. Since it is from the soon-to-be-Queen, it will be considered private and will be directly delivered to the King" Roana kept the reports and letters aside and faced Ignis.
"Adrian must be busy. I cannot burden him with such trivial things. And, even if I decide to do so, I am not sure what to write" Ignis took a quill and dipped it in ink. "Shall we continue with our lessons?".
*****
A human head rolled down a short slope and stopped just before Adrian. He used his foot to push it a little to check the face. The bloody face looked shocked as the light of life quickly vanished from its eyes. A black hair knight came running towards Adrian and pointed to the head.
"We found him when he was about to jump in the ocean. As per your command, we took care of each one of them." the Knight reported.
"I sense a few more intruders" Adrian shook his head. "Search the bodies and see if you get any clue".
The Knight bowed. He was about to leave when Adrian stopped him.
"Do not discard the heads. I would like to gift these to their owner" he smirked.
The young Knight felt a sudden chill on his neck. He quickly said yes and bowed before hastily leaving. Adrian turned and put his bloodied sword back in his scabbard. Just as he was retiring to his tent, a squire came running towards him.
"Your Majesty, Dame Benji has cleaned the remaining forest. They do not see any more intruders. She has formed a team of four knights to guard the area and will personally come and report to you the details" the squire was still puffing when he gave his message. He took a deep breath before continuing. "Also, you have received a letter from the palace".
*****
Dear Adrian,
This is not an urgent letter, so please read it when you do not find yourself busy.
Honestly, I am not sure what to write as this is my first letter which is not business related. I am not even sure what the tone of the letter should be. But here it is, I decided to write you one anyway.
Today Roana taught me a lot about rituals that we will be doing in the temple. I have heard that the Royal bride is considered as the Goddess on the wedding day. There is not much that we have to prepare for the day, but, I still hope the day finishes on a good note. Roana has also sent invitations to the twenty two families that will be attending the wedding.
How much more time are you going to take to come back? Also, is your mind clear now? Tell me if you need more time.
Waiting for your answer.
Ignis
"Her handwriting is so bad" Adrian read and reread the letter with a soft smile on his face, the handwriting not being the only reason. He tried to control his laugh as he found her letter amusing, but, didn't want to disrespect her efforts. He wanted to clean the intruder issue and be back in the palace as soon as possible, but, it is taking more time than expected. "Oh, I miss her".
He quickly asked a squire to get him the required stationary for writing her a reply.
Dear Princess,
Your letter was like an oasis in the middle of a desert. Please write to me often. The things you mentioned made it apparent that you have never written a letter to a friend. But that doesn't matter. You can simply share your daily routine or thoughts with me.
I hope the rituals are not uncomfortable for you in any way. We are to pledge our loyalty to each other. It is a small ceremony followed by meeting the guests and dinner. Roana planned everything while making sure that it won't be physically exhausting. Please have faith in her.
The situation here remains unsolved, but, I will try to finish everything as soon as possible and return soon. My thoughts are still in turmoil but I am sure with time, I will get my answers.
Are you missing me?
Only Yours,
Adrian
Please note - Write slowly so that I will be able to understand the words.