Lloyd stood before Queen Freya, his posture straight but his eyes betraying a mix of gratitude and anxiety. "Queen Freya, I cannot express my thanks enough for your hospitality and for honoring my request. It is time for Carac and me to depart for the Empire."
Freya's lips curved into a graceful smile as she inclined her head slightly. "It was my pleasure, Sir Lloyd. Tell me, do you plan to return by horseback?"
Lloyd's brow furrowed, the weight of his responsibilities pressing down on him. "I'm afraid time is of the essence, Your Majesty. A group from the Briar domain should be arriving at the Imperial City soon. I'm expected to be present to escort them to the temple for the Awakening ceremony."
A melodious laugh escaped Freya's lips, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Ufufufu... I see. In that case, perhaps you could make use of our teleportation embassy?"
The faces of both Carac and Lloyd lit up with surprise and relief. Lloyd's voice was thick with gratitude as he replied, "Your Majesty, that would be immensely helpful. We cannot thank you enough."
As they made their way to the embassy in the royal coach, Freya's expression grew more serious. "Sir Lloyd, I will plead your case to the council at our next meeting. Expect a summons for young Zen in a month's time. That should provide ample opportunity for him to prepare."
She paused, waving regally to the citizens through the coach window before continuing, "The teleport gate isn't usually open to the Empire, save for rare occasions. After using it to return, a summons for Zen will be sent through the gate when the time comes."
Lloyd nodded solemnly, the gravity of the situation settling over him. "I understand, Your Majesty. We will ensure Zen is ready for whatever challenge awaits him."
Upon reaching the embassy, Lloyd and Carac were struck by the stark contrast between elven and human technology. Even the simplest objects seemed to pulse with an otherworldly advancement.
At the reception, Freya requested a transfer to the Empire. The attendant, her movements graceful yet efficient, responded, "Your Majesty, to activate a transport gate to the Empire, we'll need permission from their transport gates." She disappeared through a door, returning moments later with a look of excitement. "Connection with the Empire has been established. Please, follow me."
They were led to an aisle with circular seating sections, each surrounded by curved, glass-like frames. As Lloyd and Carac settled into their seats, Freya bid them farewell with a regal wave.
A disembodied voice filled the air: "Attention to the passengers in aisle 3, section D. Your teleportation will commence now. Please ensure that your hands and legs remain within the confines of your seat. Have a safe return."
With that, blue rays of light enveloped them, and Lloyd felt his body dissolving into particles of light. In an instant, they materialized in the Empire's teleportation chamber.
"Well, that was... efficient," Carac remarked, his usual stoic demeanor slightly ruffled.
Lloyd nodded, his mind already racing. "Indeed. And now we have much to prepare for."
As they exited the chamber, they were thrust into the bustling activity of the Imperial City. Nobles and merchants hurried through the streets, their faces a mix of excitement and apprehension.
"The Awakening ceremony," Lloyd muttered, suddenly remembering their urgent task. "We need to get to the temple."
They navigated the crowded streets, the imposing spires of the Imperial Temple growing ever closer. As they approached, Lloyd spotted the convoy of about seven carriages bearing the Briar family crest. "Just in time," he breathed, relief evident in his voice.
The next few hours passed in a whirlwind of formalities and rituals. Lloyd played his part as the Marquis of Briar, greeting the newly awakened youth from his domain and escorting them to the temple. But his mind was elsewhere, consumed by thoughts of Zen and the challenges that lay ahead.
As the sun began to set, Lloyd and Carac finally found themselves headed back to the Briar manor. The streets were quieter now, the day's excitement giving way to a comfortable evening lull.
"Sir," Carac broke the silence, his voice low. "How do you think young master Zen will react to the news?"
Lloyd's brow furrowed. "Honestly, Carac, I'm not sure. Zen has always been... difficult to read."
As they approached the manor, they could hear the familiar sounds of training from the courtyard. Lloyd's pace quickened, a mix of anticipation and concern driving him forward.
They rounded the corner to find Zen and Arthur engaged in an intense sparring match. Lloyd's eyes widened as he took in the scene. Zen moved with a grace and power that seemed beyond his years, matching his older brother blow for blow.
"Impressive," Lloyd murmured, unable to keep the pride from his voice.
As if sensing their presence, Zen and Arthur paused, turning to greet their father. Lloyd was struck by the changes in his younger son. There was a new intensity in Zen's eyes, a barely contained energy that seemed to radiate from him.
"Father," Zen nodded, his breathing only slightly labored despite the intense training. "You're back earlier than expected."
Lloyd opened his mouth to respond, but before he could speak, a servant appeared at his elbow, looking flustered.
"My Lord," the servant bowed hastily. "I apologize for the interruption, but there are... visitors at the manor."
"Very well," Lloyd said, straightening his posture. "Let's see who our unexpected guests are."
As he moves into the manor with Carac tailing him from behind.