On the eve of the grand Festival of Sorority in Akasa, the capital city of Ardenia had transformed into an epicenter of activity and anticipation. The intensity of the preparations was palpable from the moment one approached the imposing gates of the city, leaving travelers awe-struck. In Akasa, a city known for its grandeur, every festival was an exhibition of its rich culture.
Being the heart of Ardenia, Ardenu had left no stone unturned to ensure the city radiated its very best. Majestic gates, painted in the darkest shades of night, stood guard. Their surface bore intricate designs resembling fiery tongues, leaping and dancing in a mesmerizing pattern. At the pinnacle of the gates, an ever-burning flame illuminated the entrance, parting as if by magic each time the gates opened.
The city, already a bustling hub of Ardenian life, pulsed even more vibrantly with the Festival's approach. Ardenians who had journeyed afar returned to their homeland, reuniting with families and old memories. Luxians, too, from neighboring lands, were drawn to the city for the Festival, their presence weaving seamlessly with the Ardenians in a tapestry of unity and merriment.
Masha and her companions, their eyes wide with wonder, observed the rhythm of the city. Buildings adorned in fresh coats of paint gleamed under the sun, making the entire cityscape look rejuvenated. A hallmark of Ardenia's society, the noticeable absence of class disparity, was evident in the architecture. Homes, quaint yet spacious, lined the streets, all exuding a similar charm.
Kolibry couldn't help but remark upon the communal planning. For every cluster of homes, there were multiple stalls catering to the residents' every need. In stark contrast to his homeland of Ventia, where one had to journey long distances for the simplest of purchases, Ardenia was a model of convenience.
The streets were thoughtfully designed, allowing for ample space between the houses, ensuring that no one felt cramped. "As alive as the flame," a common Ardenian adage, seemed to personify the city's spirit. It underpinned the belief that every Ardenian was destined to lead an effervescent life, mirroring the perpetual energy of a flame.
Such zest for life had established Ardenia as Equestera's hub of leisure and entertainment. With an abundance of taverns, eateries, and meeting places, it was a haven for those seeking camaraderie or new friendships. Music, the heartbeat of Ardenian culture, was revered. Their melodies resonated across Equestera, solidifying Ardenia's status as a musical powerhouse.
The Festival of Sorority was a testament to this musical legacy. Last cycle, the renowned band of the Fourth Paladin, from the icy peaks of Eskalt in Ventia, had graced the festival. However, their absence in this cycle was felt, as the revered Fourth Paladin, Asgeir, was bound by his duties.
As the group wandered the bustling streets, the infectious rhythm of street musicians filled the air. Unable to resist, Masha, swayed by the music, momentarily broke away, letting the tunes guide her paws in a dance, showcasing cycles of learned "grace."
As the warm, golden hues of the Akasa sky stretched over the horizon, Leyla, with a glint of amusement in her eyes, observed Masha's spontaneous dance. The cobbled streets of the city, which had borne witness to countless tales of valor and intrigue, now echoed with the rhythmic tapping of Masha's paws. However, as the dance's allure began to fade, Leyla's discreet nod served as a reminder of their impending duties.
"My sister is here in the city," Yua's voice broke through Masha's thoughts, tinged with a mix of hope and anxiety. She looked toward Masha, the unspoken leader of their ragtag group, seeking approval.
Masha, her gaze contemplative, raised an eyebrow. "Got any other stops planned?"
In the midst of the bustling crowd, Leyla adjusted the cloak that served as her disguise. She was a figure of renown, and drawing attention in these parts wasn't on their agenda. She interjected with a hint of nostalgia, "Before anything else, we should probably get rooms at the Guild Inn. Ah, the benefits of being both a Protector and a Paladin." She smirked, recalling memories only she was privy to.
Kolibry, ever the observant one, squinted into the distance, his keen eyes scanning the labyrinthine layout of Akasa. "Where's this Guild Inn? I can't spot it."
With a light-hearted chuckle, Leyla responded, "It's nestled deep within the city's nooks and crannies. Best you stick close, or you'll find yourself lost in Akasa's embrace." Their laughter, genuine and warm, echoed in the narrow alleyways as they ventured deeper into the heart of the city.
The cobbled streets of Akasa reverberated with muted echoes of their footsteps. As they navigated through the city's winding alleys, the formation shifted. Leyla, her steps firm and sure, took point, guiding them through the labyrinthine pathways she knew so well. Masha, Kolibry, and Yua strolled abreast, their eyes absorbing the architectural marvels of Akasa—the elegant stonework, the filigree balconies, and the intricate mosaics that seemed to recount tales of old. Momo, ever the inquisitive spirit, would intermittently break free from Yua's perch, drawn to the myriad spectacles the city offered.
Leyla led them in a dance through Akasa's maze. At times, their route felt like a riddle, with countless bends and turns, enough to make a less trusting group doubt their guide. Yet, faith in Leyla held them steady, even as their path weaved through the city like a thread through fabric.
As the sun lowered its gaze, casting elongated shadows that danced with the twilight, the outline of the Guild Inn crystallized in the distance. The road leading to it was a straight, narrow path lined with ancient trees that stood sentinel, their leaves whispering tales of bygone travelers. It felt secluded, a stark contrast to the vivacity of the city.
Just as their destination seemed within grasp, Yua's pace faltered. Her eyes, sharp and observant, caught a familiar silhouette. With a mix of urgency and excitement, she approached Leyla, breathlessly exclaiming, "Leyla, there, my sister!" Leyla, always one for reunions, responded, "Well, don't keep her waiting. Invite her over." With a radiant smile, Yua signaled Mei.
Mei, upon catching sight of her younger sister, broke into a graceful run, her beauty evident even from afar. Heads turned, and murmurs arose as she passed, but she remained unperturbed. For her heart, vast and generous, held no room for vanity. It was filled with an abiding love for her sister, a love that saw beyond praises and ensured Yua never felt lesser in its light.
Mei moved with a quiet grace, drawing near to Yua and her eclectic ensemble, trailed at a leisurely pace by three alicorns. Their reunion was a touching sight as the sisters embraced tightly. The warmth of their bond palpable.
"My dearest Yua," Mei's voice trembled with emotion. "It feels like ages. How have you been?"
"I've been on quite the adventure, Mei," Yua replied, her eyes glinting with untold stories. "But first, let me introduce you to those who've been by my side. You remember Kolibry, of course."
The graceful nod Mei shared with Kolibry wasn't lost on Leyla, who discerned a certain fondness in their exchange, different from the customary alicorn camaraderie. She silently vowed to delve deeper into this at a later juncture.
"These are Masha and Leyla. Kolibry and I had the fortune to meet them at the renowned Aemna Inn recently," Yua added.
Leyla's unease swelled as Mei's gaze lingered, recognition dawning. In a reflex, Leyla hid herself behind her wing, heart pounding, bracing for exposure. Despite her efforts, the air thickened with tension, each breath a jagged shard as she awaited the inevitable revelation.
The ambiance grew tenser as the remaining three alicorns arrived. Among them was Ayzat, the distinguished Second Paladin of Equestera. His piercing eyes locked onto Leyla, recognizing her instantly. The verbal dance began.
"Leyla, in my city, without even the courtesy of a visit? What would the masses think?" Ayzat said, a mocking tone evident.
Leyla's response was curt, her distrust evident. "Ayzat."
In the lively clamor of the marketplace, Ayzat's playful suggestion rose above the din. "Your fondness for hiding your true self puzzles me. Why not reveal yourself and be recognized?"
Leyla, whose trust was not easily won, met his words with a barbed reply. "Should they put me on a pedestal as they do with you?" Her voice held the frost of a winter not seen but deeply felt, her suspicion of him as evident as the keen edge on a blade.
A heartful laugh burst from Ayzat, echoing around them with genuine mirth. "I'm hardly one to deny anyone their adoration," he said, with the grandeur of a seasoned performer bowing to an enraptured audience.
Unimpressed, Leyla allowed only an eye roll to betray her feelings, as if the gesture alone could dismiss his words like fallen leaves in the wind.
Turning his gaze upon young Masha, Ayzat addressed her with a familiarity that belied the cycles that had passed. "Masha, it's been ages. Far too many seasons have passed."
"Hey Ayzat. Yeah, it's nice to see you after so long," Masha replied, her words measured and carefully neutral, a stark contrast to the vibrant hum of life around them.
Ayzat's grin was sharp, perhaps too eager. "Lucky for me, Leyla hasn't turned you against me…not yet anyway." His tone was teasing, yet beneath it lay a depth that hinted at more than just playful banter.
"You've grown now, my word," he observed, a simple statement that nevertheless seemed to weigh on the air between them.
The protective stance Leyla adopted was immediate and fierce. "Leave my daughter alone, Ayzat." Her words were firm, a clear warning, leaving no room for further jest or familiarity.
He stepped back, his response a theatrical show of compliance. "Consider her left alone," he offered, a smile playing upon his lips, though it failed to reach the guarded look in Leyla's eyes.
Under the sprawling shadow of the festival banners, Ayzat posed his query with a feigned casualness that was as transparent as the summer sky. "Why did you decide to come out today, Leyla? It's not often we see you at these events. What's the special occasion?"
His gaze slid over their rumpled attire, noting signs of a scuffle, yet he kept his thoughts on that observation to himself for the moment.
"We were just about to get rooms at the Guild Inn," Leyla replied, her voice devoid of the mirth that filled the air around them. "That's when I saw Mei and told Yua to call her out."
"You were going to stay at an Inn?" Ayzat feigned surprise, a playful twinkle in his eye. "When my own home is right here in the city? That won't do at all," he teased, expecting Leyla to resist his invitation.
Leyla hesitated, her gaze flickering briefly to Ayzat before yielding to Masha's subtle prompt, guiding them aside for a private conversation amidst the bustling throng of Ardenians and Luxians preparing for the Festival of Sorority. Her expression held a tinge of skepticism as she followed her daughter, the weight of her concerns evident in the furrow of her brow.
"What's the issue, Mom?" Masha inquired, her voice a blend of genuine curiosity and underlying concern, her ears twitching with anticipation.
Leyla attempted to deflect, a subtle evasion dancing in her eyes. "What do you mean?" she countered, her tone guarded.
"You're really going to turn down an offer to stay with the Second Paladin?" Masha's disbelief hung in the air like a palpable force, her gaze probing for answers.
With a soft sigh, Leyla relented, her facade crumbling under the weight of her daughter's earnest gaze. "I just don't feel comfortable around Ayzat, that's all. I haven't for some time," she confessed, her voice tinged with uncertainty.
"Mom, please. Just this once?" Masha's plea was heartfelt, her eyes pleading for understanding, her tail swishing nervously behind her. "I want to see everything, ask him questions, just experience his world," she continued, her voice filled with an earnest yearning.
Leyla felt her resolve falter, the lines of tension softening as she acquiesced to her daughter's request with a reluctant nod. "Okay, but be careful," she cautioned, her voice laced with maternal concern.
Masha's face lit up with a radiant smile, gratitude shining in her eyes. "I will, Mom. Thank you," she softly murmured, her relief palpable.
With a forced smile, Leyla rejoined the group, where Ayzat awaited with a knowing glint in his eyes. "So, have you made up your mind? Are you coming?" he inquired, his voice tinged with eager anticipation.
Leyla hesitated, her unease lingering like a shadow over her features as she weighed her options. "I'm still not sure this is a good idea, but yes, we'll accept your hospitality," she conceded, her words tinged with a hint of apprehension.
Ayzat's response was an exuberant stomp of his hooves against the ground, the sound echoing through the bustling streets of Akasa, a genuine expression of pleasure. "Fantastic! I'm thrilled you're joining us. You're going to have a great time, especially you, Yua," he exclaimed, his enthusiasm infectious.
Yua, taken aback by the unexpected attention, felt a blush rise to her cheeks, her eyes widening in surprise. "Really? Me?" she questioned, her voice tinged with incredulity.
"Absolutely," Ayzat reassured her with a warm smile, his gaze lingering on her with genuine warmth. "Having the sister of the admirable Mei is an honor. She's remarkable, and I'm sure you are too," he praised, his words filled with sincerity.
"Thanks, Ayzat. She is indeed," Yua agreed, her voice soft with gratitude as she shared a tender glance with her sister, a silent acknowledgment of their unbreakable bond.
"Leyla, ready to go?" Ayzat extended the invitation with a grand flourish, his demeanor brimming with excitement as he awaited their response, his anticipation palpable in the air around them.
Leyla rolled her eyes discreetly before falling into step behind him, following the path to his residence.
The air was alive with the exchange of stories as they walked. Ayzat, ever eager to impress, shared anecdotes of his exploits with gusto. Leyla managed a smile here, a grimace there—each story resonating differently with her.
"Just wait until you meet my other guests," Ayzat promised as they neared his estate. "You're in for quite the treat."
As they rounded the last bend, the mansion stood before them, a grand testament to Ayzat's status. The sight left everyone but Ayzat and his close companions in awe. With a proud, self-satisfied grin, Ayzat soaked in their amazement, his heart swelling with pride at the impact of his lavish abode.
Masha found Ayzat's mansion to dwarf all but the Guild Inns in its majesty. Enclosed within a vast compound, the residence was ensconced amidst a copse of pink-leafed trees and dense shrubbery, nature's own guardians of the palatial retreat.
The path to the mansion was a meandering sojourn of two hundred meters, where the foliage whispered secrets of the grand estate it concealed. As they emerged from the verdant corridor, the full splendor of the mansion was unveiled, leaving those who beheld it in wonder and surprise.
Despite rising only two stories tall, the mansion extended its breadth across the land with the assertiveness of a rogue spirit commanding its territory. Windows adorned its facade, too numerous to count, their elaborate designs a silent proclamation of royalty and opulence. Each pane of glass, a meticulous craftsmanship, spoke silently of the grandeur within.
The residence was an architectural ballad with two prominent wings that boldly extended further than the mansion's central heart. These wings housed the many chambers, from the somber stillness of the study to the warmth of the kitchen hearth. The mansion's core, however, was reserved for the grand staircase and the entry passageway, an arterial thoroughfare for the bloodline of guests flowing through its grandeur.
Clad in the dominant hues of Akasa's crest, the mansion was a canvas of resounding reds, so vivid that Masha's features contorted in visible distaste. To her, the palette was a cacophony of colors too vibrant for subtlety, yet Leyla, with a knowing eye, surmised the choice was reflective of Ayzat's own flamboyant essence.
The compound was alive with alicorns engaged in an array of pursuits, from the clash of combat training to the discipline of daily chores. Masha, ever inquisitive, regarded them with a gaze hungry for knowledge before presenting her silent query to Ayzat.
"Are these Protectors?" she asked, her voice tinged with the thirst for understanding rather than the bite of accusation.
Ayzat replied with a certain pride, "Most of them are aspirants, training to become Protectors. Most of them, at the very least."
Masha, her brow furrowed, pressed further. "Why are they not at the Guild Inn or with an examiner, then?" Her confrontation was not of hostility but of a mind ravenous for the workings of this unconventional practice.
Leyla's voice sliced through the air, cold as the north wind, as she echoed the question. Ayzat, with the ghost of a smile and a glance as quick as an arrow loosed from a bow, responded.
"It's a privilege of a Paladin to lead a division of Protectors. An honor bestowed, an army reared," he explained, his gaze lingering on Leyla, urging her to acknowledge the tradition.
"Is that the truth, Mom?" Masha's voice was a mix of doubt and revelation.
Leyla's affirmation was reluctant but firm. "It's true, but I've never seen the need for such a personal army. The Guild Inn's teachings are sufficient. You were the exception, as my beloved daughter—I wanted to do your training myself."
The Ardenian's countenance was alight with the fervor of a believer. "Oh, Leyla, if only you could see the vision that guides me," he intoned, his words sending an involuntary shiver through Masha.
Before the tension could ripen further, Masha interjected, "And what name do they carry?"
Ayzat, puffed with pride, declared, "They are the Second Division, as I am the Second Paladin, simple as that!"
As they neared the imposing entrance of Ayzat's abode, the master of the house paused, prompting Masha's curious gaze while Leyla emitted a sigh dense with frustration. The ceremony that ensued was sudden and orchestrated as if by unseen hooves; the disciplined members of the Second Division converged upon their location, forming an orderly procession. With a synchrony that spoke of rigorous training and unwavering loyalty, they dipped into deep bows, their reverence for Ayzat palpable in the air, their homage extending courteously to his companions.
Ayzat's voice rose in gracious acknowledgment, "My thanks to each of you. I trust you'll see to the comforts of our esteemed visitors during their stay." His eyes flickered toward Leyla with a gleam of victory, yet she afforded him no such triumph with her attention. With a rumble of acquiescence, the Second Division dispersed, their steps quick with purpose as they sought to fulfill the commands laid upon them.
In this tableau of fealty, Masha's eyes danced between the Paladin and his loyalists, captivated by the singular authority Ayzat wielded—a command both earned and given freely, it seemed. She took in the grandeur of his dwelling, an edifice that challenged her very notion of scale and sovereignty. Thoughts of the Primordial Pantheon's dwellings flitted through her mind, sparking her imagination about their grandiosity or humble grace, but the sight before her tethered her firmly to the present.
Masha's introspections were curtailed by a jolt as she stumbled into Ayzat, pulled abruptly from her reverie. Her cheeks colored with a mortified flush as she stammered an apology. Ayzat's response, laced with a hint of roguish delight, rang through, "Oh, you don't worry about that. It happens to the best of us," though Masha detected undercurrents of mischief in his tone, echoing the disquiet that had nested in her since their arrival, she said nothing.
"Let us proceed to the primary dining hall," Ayzat proposed, a presumption of a meal at the ready within his tone. Yua's hushed inquiry to Mei about the existence of a secondary dining venue was met with an affirming, subtle grin, while disbelief played across Kolibry's features at the opulence suggested.
With a stride toward the grand doors, they swung open as if on cue, ushering in a wave of splendor that eclipsed the outer magnificence. The foyer unfurled into a vision of Ardenian style, unabashed in its architectural pride. The craftsmanship of every furnishing bore the hallmark of Ardenian artisans, each piece a testament to the dominion's aesthetic and Ayzat's devotion to his homeland—a loyalty that, Masha conceded silently, could not be faulted.
Her eyes lifted to a chandelier that dominated the overhead space, its bold red tones a herald of Ardenia's emblematic hue. She pondered the ambiance it would cast when night fell, imagining the shadows and light in a dance of crimson. They passed beneath its looming presence, through the archways and beyond the stairwell, making their way toward the promise of the dining hall that lay beyond.
Beneath the ancient beams of Ayzat's grand dining hall, there stretched a table vast enough to host a convocation of fifteen alicorns, should the fates ever see fit to gather such a mythical assembly. The master of the house, Ayzat himself, had lavished his wealth with a lavish hoof, sparing no expense to ensure that those who supped at his table found no cause to lament a lack of comfort or the meagreness of the feast.
In the shadowed reaches of the room, above the heads of the gathered, hung chandeliers that, unlike the fiery red orbs that danced like captured sunsets in the halls of Ardenia, shone with a pure and unsullied light. These were the chosen luminaries of Ayzat's realm, crafted not for splendor but to banish the darkness from the corners of his feast.
As Ayzat ushered his entourage into the chamber, Masha's gaze fell upon two figures already gracing the space with their presence: Aqasha and Aren, who appeared to be ensnared in the prelude to a meal. The air between them was thick with the unsaid, for though Aren endeavored to engage with his companion, it was plain for all to see that Aqasha's spirit was leagues away. Her posture was a silent rebuke, a nearly turned back and countenance as blank as the untouched plates before them, even as Aren's gestures bespoke a desperate animation.
Leyla, witnessing Aqasha's stoic facade, was struck not with the sight of defiance but with a swell of empathic sorrow for the plight of the young alicorn. A maternal tempest raged within her, yearning to extend a comforting wing, yet she tamed the instinct, her resolve as ironclad as her title.
When, at last, the eyes of Aren and Aqasha rose to greet the newcomers, Aqasha seized the moment like a lifeline, extricating herself from a conversation that seemed a veritable gauntlet to her soul. Aren's gaze followed her retreat, and a silent agony belied the smile he donned as armor, trailing after his daughter with a father's concern etched deep in his heart.
Introductions unfurled like banners at a tourney. "Aqasha, Aren, I want you to meet my guests," Ayzat began with a flourish. "This is Leyla, the revered Third Paladin of Equestera, and her daughter Masha. Beside them are Yua, the lovely sister of our dear Mei, and Kolibry, Yua's friend. Everyone, this is Aren, the esteemed High-Priest of Ardenu, and Aqasha, his daughter."
The last words fell like ice shards from Aqasha's lips, "Adoptive daughter," a declaration stark and unyielding. Leyla and Masha's gazes latched onto her, their thoughts veiled behind eyes that missed no detail, though each pondered different mysteries.
Aren, with the grace of one who wields faith as his scepter, advanced with an amiable front. "It's really nice to meet you, Leyla. I've heard many great things about you, and not just from Ayzat. It's good to meet all of you as well."
Leyla's response, wreathed in honor, was swift. "It's a pleasure to meet you too, Aren. It's always an honor to meet a High-Priest."
Yet, as Ayzat's eyes danced with an impish gleam, a note of discord threatened the harmony of the gathering. "You two seem to be getting along already. Leyla, have you left that researcher yet, or is he still around?"
"Guard your tongue, Ayzat," she warned, the steel underlying her tone causing even the bold master of the house to retreat.
"Calm down, Leyla. I'm just teasing," Ayzat parried with a chuckle that did little to hide the sharpness of his curiosity. "Anyway, let's all sit down. It looks like the food is ready."
Thus, the company found themselves arrayed as a tapestry of station and story, with Yua, Mei, Kolibry, Aqasha and Aren on one flank and Masha and Leyla counterbalancing them. At the head, as befitting the lord of the domain, Ayzat presided. And as the courses commenced their grand procession onto the table, it was he who unfurled the banner of conversation, weaving words as deftly as a master crafts his chronicles.
The expansive dining chamber seemed to resonate with Ayzat's question, thrown like a lance into the midst of their conviviality. "So, how do you two feel about starring in the play, Mei and Aqasha?"
Mei's expression transformed, her joy radiant, as if her visage was kissed by the morning sun itself. She attempted to give voice to her happiness, but her ebullient smile held her speech captive. Masha, catching sight of this delightful struggle, chuckled—a sound soon echoed by all but Aqasha, whose attention remained steadfastly tethered to her plate, her disinterest as stark as a barren tree in the depth of winter.
As the silence stretched, Masha's expectant gaze faltered, and she returned to her repast with a dismissive eye roll, surrendering the hope of engaging Aqasha.
The conversation shifted with Ayzat leaning subtly toward Leyla. "So, are you going to tell me what happened on the way?" he asked with an air of casual inquiry.
Leyla met his gaze squarely. "What do you mean?"
"You all had some trouble on your journey to Akasa. I want to know what happened," he probed with more intensity, looking directly into her eyes.
Leyla sighed, her voice now bearing the burden of their recent peril. "We encountered magmatic spirits. It was quite the battle," she recounted, and Ayzat's demeanor sharpened, his joviality giving way to a rare solemnity.
"And what brought you to this city in the first place?" His tone was measured, the question poised like a chess move.
"We had business," Leyla started. "Masha was getting her license from the Aemna Inn, and we took a mission in Ardenia. That brought us here."
A shadow of concern flickered across Ayzat's face. "These spirits are a matter of Ardenian origin; it seems I must take this to heart." His words were heavy with the promise of action, and Leyla's jaw set firmly, her thoughts a vault sealed shut. Masha, watching this interplay, held her tongue, recalling her mother's lessons on the silent acceptance of duty.
With a discreet gesture, Ayzat summoned an attendant and murmured commands that vanished into the ambient hum of the hall. When the attendant returned and presented a pouch to Leyla, Ayzat declared, "For the mission's end. The crystals, if you please."
Leyla parted with the crystals, her gaze betraying a momentary reluctance. "I'll look into these," Ayzat stated, the curiosity in his voice echoing the room's sudden quiet.
The satchel remained with Leyla as the meal resumed its interrupted cadence. Soon after, yet another alicorn delivered a document to Leyla with all the formality the moment required. "This is to confirm the mission's completion at the Guild Inn," said Ayzat.
Leyla responded, her voice a blend of acknowledgment and weariness, "I know the drill, Ayzat."
His smirk was enigmatic, stirring the air with an unvoiced challenge. She tucked away the document, and as the tension subtly suffused the room, diners sought refuge in their plates.
Sensing the need to navigate away from the growing disquiet, Masha readied herself to broach a new topic with the Second Paladin.
Masha, amidst the jovial banter and clinking of the dinnerware, turned her inquiry to Ayzat. With an air of casual earnestness, she asked, "Can I ask you a question, Ayzat? It's pretty personal." Ayzat, reading the subtext of her query, gave a slight, encouraging nod, prepared for what was to come. "What happened to your wings? Was it an accident or during a fight?"
A chuckle escaped Ayzat's lips, not mocking but light with the acceptance of his past. The table's attention was now on him, all ears for a story not yet told to them. "Well, the truth is I have absolutely no memories about what happened to my wings. I've actually never known them."
"You don't remember anything?" Yua asked, disbelief tinting her voice, reflecting the skepticism of the table.
Ayzat shook his head, his expression earnest. "I'm sure it was some accident. Why else would I not remember?" he said, turning his head toward Aqasha and Aren.
With Ayzat's response hanging in the air, Masha pivoted her attention to Aren. "Your Radiance, what is Queen Ardenu like?"
Aren took a moment, then with a genuine smile, replied, "Queen Ardenu is…fiery," eliciting laughter around the table. "Seriously, she's very graceful. Though she may seem a bit stern, she's actually very kind. She's like a mother and listens closely to her people. She's also very protective of those she cares for."
His fondness for Ardenu was palpable, warming Masha to the idea of such a ruler. He then turned his attention to Mei and Yua. "I've met Queen Luxoah too. She's incredibly kind and one of the loveliest alicorns I've ever met."
Mei and Yua beamed with pride, their affection for their queen evident.
Masha, feeling a pull of concern, shifted her gaze to Aqasha. "So, Aqasha, what's Ardenia like?"
Aqasha briefly looked up, then back down to her plate. "Red."
"What do you mean, 'red?'" Masha inquired, trying her best to keep her tone even.
"The colors," Aqasha answered tersely.
Masha, her voice rising slightly despite herself, asked, "Could you maybe explain a bit more?"
"No. I don't want to," came Aqasha's blunt refusal.
"But it's just a simple question about the upcoming performance," Masha persisted, a note of irritation creeping in.
"I could answer, but I don't want to. Why do you care? It's none of your business," Aqasha snapped back.
"I'm just trying to understand, that's all," Masha said, the volume of their conversation escalating.
"Except it is too much to ask," Aqasha retorted sharply.
The tension at the table peaked, with Leyla and Aren stepping in before words could escalate into conflict. "Masha! Why are you behaving like this?" Leyla interjected with authority.
"I'm sorry, Mom," Masha responded, her expression a mix of frustration and regret.
"Aqasha! You shouldn't speak to guests like that," Aren admonished with a firmness that commanded respect.
"Well, she started it," Aqasha said defiantly, but at her father's stern prompt, she mumbled an apology, and Masha did the same.
"Aren, my apologies. She's not usually like this," Leyla said with sincerity.
"It's alright, Leyla. I'm sorry for Aqasha's behavior as well. We'll have a talk later," Aren assured her, and with an exchange of understanding nods, they let the issue settle.
The remnants of the earlier tension seemed to unravel slowly, like thread from a spool, as they all returned their attentions to the feast spread before them. It was Yua who, in an attempt to weave the severed threads of camaraderie, engaged Mei in conversation. Kolibry, not to be left on the fringes, joined in, and the trinity delved into an exchange of information and updates, filling the voids left by time and distance.
"So, Mei, your performance is nigh. How stands your confidence?" Yua's voice was gentle, yet it carried the weight of concern.
Mei inhaled deeply, her chest rising like the swell before a storm, before exhaling a hollow laugh. "To be honest, I've been a mess, trying to soothe my mind."
"Stress is the culprit, then?" Yua probed further, a frown knitting her brow.
"Yes, stress is quite the foe," Mei affirmed, her hooves absently tracing the intricate grain of the wooden table.
Seeking to lighten the mood, Kolibry quipped with a fact that she knew would pique Mei's interest, "What's your remedy? Grape juice seems to be Yua's newfound fancy."
"Grape juice? Since when?" Mei's curiosity was piqued, as was her sense of sibling rivalry.
Yua could only respond with a sheepish smile, a silent acknowledgment of the shifts time can bring. "It appears Kolibry has coaxed me into the habit."
"And I could not? Curious, what tactics did he employ?" Mei's voice danced with the lilt of teasing, the perfect blend of sibling jest and inquiry, causing both Yua and Kolibry to blush a hue reminiscent of the sunset.
Kolibry, momentarily speechless, found himself at a loss for words, a rarity that did not go unnoticed. Yua swiftly came to his defense with a playful threat. "Stop it, Mei. Or I'm going to hit your horn in. Now answer his question. How do you get over the stress when it comes?"
Mei's gaze softened, and she smiled at the thought of her supporter. "Ayzat has been a great help."
Yua's eyes darted briefly to Ayzat, who seemed engrossed in his food, the muscles of his jaw working quietly as he chewed.
"He crafts a special tea for me, and it works wonders," Mei continued, her words painting a picture of a camaraderie as warm as the tea she described.
Ayzat finally looked up, his gaze meeting theirs. "It's a secret blend of mine," Ayzat interjected. His smirk was a fleeting thing, like a shooting star across the firmament of his face.
With the conversation drawing to a natural close, they refocused on their meals, the sound of cutlery against plates filling the room until nothing was left but empty dishes and satisfied sighs. Once satiated, Ayzat took charge, his voice carrying the clear note of authority as he beckoned another of the Second Division.
"Please take our new guests to their rooms so they can get enough rest," he commanded.
Leyla, warrant but still able to show respect when it was due and moved by the undercurrents of grace in Ayzat's gesture, offered her gratitude with a sincerity that shone in her eyes. "Thank you very much, Ayzat. I'm very grateful for this," she said.
Ayzat's smile, genuine, bloomed like a flower in the first light of dawn. "It's alright. I'm just happy I finally got to meet Masha again," he replied, and Masha offered an awkward smile in return, her eyes flicking to her mother.
The rest of the company began to rise, the soft rustle of their clothes and the muted shuffle of their hooves and paws marking the end of the evening. Yua bid her sister good night with the promise of the morning's light. "See you in the morning, Mei."
"See you, sister," Mei returned, her voice carrying a warmth that only siblings share. Kolibry nodded a wordless goodbye, his respect for Ayzat evident in the gesture.
Aren and Aqasha were a contrast in mood as they made their way, the former with a bearing of regal fatigue and the latter still marinated in the evening's sourness. "Goodnight, Ayzat," Aren called out, but Ayzat's hoof on his chest was a silent command to halt.
"Handle her with care. Patience might yet bridge the gap between you," Ayzat counseled, his voice a low murmur meant only for Aren's ears.
"I'm weary of careful words. I'm simply tired," Aren admitted, the weight of his responsibilities etched into the lines of his face.
"Just keep a little hope alive. That might make all the difference," Ayzat encouraged, and with a heavy nod, Aren conceded and made his way to the solace of his room.
Mei lingered a moment longer, her presence a silent statement of her internal struggle. "I've prepared another special tea for you with ingredients I just received," Ayzat said, retrieving a steaming cup from the adjacent chamber.
She took a cautious sip, the liquid familiar and yet not. "What's changed? It seems very similar to the last," she observed, the question hanging in the air like a riddle.
"It's subtly different," Ayzat assured her, his back already to her as he began to ascend the staircase.
Mei took another sip, her palate searching for the elusive new flavor. "I can't discern it, but I appreciate it all the same," she murmured, more to herself than to Ayzat, as she followed him up the stairs.
"I'm certain you'll do wonderfully, for the play," Ayzat encouraged her, his words echoing as they parted ways at the top of the stairs, each to their own sanctuary for the night.
***
In the opulent chambers of Ayzat's sprawling mansion, mother and daughter found solace amidst the lavish decor of Ardenian red and gold. Though ample quarters were provided for each guest, Leyla insisted on sharing a room with Masha, a decision that warmed her daughter's heart.
The scent of fresh cherry permeated the air, mingling with the weariness that clung to Masha's frame as she collapsed onto one of the beds. Moments passed before she stirred, her gaze heavy with remorse as she addressed her mother.
"Forgive my outburst earlier, Mom," Masha murmured, her voice tinged with contrition. "I let myself be carried away by that Ardenian."
Leyla approached her daughter with a gentle grace, a comforting wing draped over her shoulder. "It's alright, dear. Aqasha wasn't exactly winning any awards for her behavior, either. But hey, I'm glad you're owning up to it."
She patted Masha's head, messing up her mane in the process and earning a playful squirm from her daughter. Masha then pulled her mom into a tight hug, surprising Leyla with her strength.
"Whoa, I now understand how Kolibry felt when you nearly "squeezed the life out of him"," Leyla joked, a twinkle in her eye.
Masha laughed, not letting go. "Oh, come on, Mom! You're the Third Paladin. You can handle a hug from your favorite daughter," she teased right back.
Laughter filled the room, a melody of familial warmth that transcended the weight of their current concerns. Yet beneath the surface, Leyla sensed a shadow lingering in Masha's gaze, a silent turmoil that begged to be acknowledged.
Sensing her daughter's unspoken turmoil, Leyla took the helm, prepared to navigate the depths of their familial bond with unwavering resolve.
"What's weighing on your mind, Masha?" Leyla inquired, her smile a beacon of maternal warmth, inviting her daughter to confide in her.
"Well…I've been wondering something, Mom," Masha began, her curiosity piqued. "While I can see Ayzat's got a flamboyant streak and a touch of arrogance…I'm at a loss as to why you're so wary of him. Care to tell me why?" Her gaze met her mother's, seeking understanding in the depths of her eyes.
The Third Paladin hesitated briefly before settling onto her own bed. "I've always had a nagging feeling about him. So young, yet so much power…it sets me on edge, truth be told," Leyla admitted, her gaze flickering away from her daughter's in discomfort.
"You? Scared?" Masha's astonishment was palpable, her eyes widening in disbelief. "I never would've considered you for the apprehensive type, let alone over a colleague."
"Perhaps I'm simply too suspicious," Leyla conceded with a self-conscious chuckle. "But I witnessed him in combat a couple of cycles ago, and let me tell you, it was quite the fiery spectacle."
Masha swallowed hard, her mind racing with visions of Ayzat wielding formidable flame magic. Despite her mother's warning, a part of her yearned to witness such power firsthand.
"Just remember, he's the Second Paladin," Leyla reminded her daughter, locking gazes to impart the gravity of her words. "The second most powerful Protector in Equestera, and unquestionably surpassing me, despite him being only five cycles older than you."
Masha snapped out of her reverie, her attention snapping back to her mother, who met her with a teasing smirk. "Seems you've got quite the mountain to climb before reaching that pinnacle, don't you think?"
Pride swelled within the young Fulmenian, her grin exuding confidence, but before she could retort, her mother interjected.
"But for now, let's lay our worries to rest and let's enjoy tomorrow's Festival!" Leyla declared, her smile infectious. "Training's important, but so is savoring life's pleasures," she added, punctuating her point with a playful wink.
With a nod of agreement, Masha settled onto her bed. "Love you, Mom. Good night."
"Good night, Masha. Love you too," Leyla reciprocated, the warmth of her affection echoing in the darkness as she extinguished the light.