The whispers of the market incident spread through Luthadel like wildfire, leaving every noble in the court intrigued by the mysterious Chinese envoy who had pacified the bandits with nothing but words. Yet, Princess Althaea couldn't shake the unease that settled in her chest. The morning after the confrontation, she found herself standing before the grand throne room, awaiting another audience with Princess Na-na.
The ornate hall was draped in crimson banners bearing the sigils of Luthadel—golden lions entwined with laurel wreaths. Servants scurried about, lighting the tall candelabras and arranging fresh flowers. Despite the opulence surrounding her, Althaea's thoughts were consumed by the strange and captivating presence of the Eastern princess.
The doors creaked open, and Na-na entered with her entourage, gliding as though she were the embodiment of the morning mist. Today, she wore a flowing robe of jade-green silk embroidered with intricate patterns of cranes and lotus flowers. Her hair, dark as a raven's wing, was braided into a crown, accentuating the delicate curve of her cheekbones and the quiet strength in her almond-shaped eyes.
Althaea stepped forward, her diplomatic mask firmly in place. "Princess Na-na, I trust you have rested well?"
Na-na inclined her head, a ghost of a smile on her lips. "The hospitality of your palace is unparalleled, Princess Althaea. It is no wonder your kingdom is revered."
"Flattery will get you everywhere, Princess," Althaea replied, her tone light yet cautious. "But I suspect you didn't summon me here merely to exchange pleasantries."
Na-na's smile deepened, and she gestured for Althaea to walk with her. The two women moved through the side corridors of the palace, away from prying eyes and ears. As they strolled, Na-na began to speak in a low, melodic voice.
"In my land, we have a saying: 'The silk weaver does not reveal her threads until the tapestry is complete.' Yet here I find myself compelled to share my threads with you, Princess."
Althaea arched an eyebrow. "You have my attention."
Na-na paused before a tall window, gazing out at the sprawling city below. The golden rooftops of Luthadel sparkled under the sun, a stark contrast to the smoke that had marred the skyline the day before.
"Our journey to your kingdom was not born merely out of a desire for trade," Na-na admitted. "The Song Dynasty seeks alliances—alliances that will fortify us against the threats looming in the East. The Mongol tribes grow bolder with each passing season, and even the Great Wall may not hold them back forever."
Althaea studied Na-na's profile, noting the flicker of vulnerability in her eyes. "And you believe Luthadel can offer you such an alliance?"
"Not just Luthadel," Na-na said, turning to face her. "The Western kingdoms possess knowledge and resources that could change the course of history. In exchange, we offer silk, porcelain, tea, and spices—treasures that your people crave. But there is more at stake than wealth. Together, we could forge a bond strong enough to withstand the storms that lie ahead."
Althaea nodded slowly, her mind racing with the implications of Na-na's words. "Your reasoning is sound, Princess, but alliances are built on trust, and trust must be earned. How do I know your intentions are pure?"
Na-na reached into the folds of her robe and retrieved a small, lacquered box. She opened it to reveal a delicate jade pendant shaped like a lotus blossom. "This belonged to my mother," she said softly. "She believed in the power of unity, even in the face of division. I offer this to you as a symbol of my sincerity."
Althaea hesitated before accepting the pendant. It was cool to the touch, its surface smooth and polished. "This is a generous gift, Princess. I will treasure it."
"Good," Na-na said, her gaze steady. "Now, let us discuss the details of our trade. I believe there is much we can learn from each other."
Later That Evening
The negotiations lasted well into the afternoon, leaving Althaea both mentally and emotionally drained. Yet, she couldn't deny the progress they had made. Na-na's knowledge of commerce and diplomacy was unparalleled, and her ability to navigate complex discussions was both impressive and unnerving.
As Althaea prepared for dinner in her private chambers, her handmaid, Lyra, fussed over her hair. "The Chinese princess is unlike anyone I've ever seen," Lyra remarked. "They say she speaks ten languages and can recite poetry that brings grown men to tears."
Althaea sighed. "Yes, she is extraordinary. But there is more to her than meets the eye. I can't shake the feeling that she is hiding something."
"Perhaps," Lyra said, pinning an emerald brooch into Althaea's braid. "But secrets are the currency of the court, are they not? You must decide whether hers are worth uncovering."
As Althaea stared at her reflection in the gilded mirror, Na-na's words echoed in her mind: 'The silk weaver does not reveal her threads until the tapestry is complete.'
What kind of tapestry was Na-na weaving, and what role was Althaea meant to play in it?
At the Banquet Hall
The evening banquet was a grand affair, with nobles from across the kingdom gathered to honor their guest. Long tables laden with roasted meats, exotic fruits, and fine wines stretched across the hall, while musicians played melodies that filled the air with festive energy.
Na-na was seated at the head table beside King Aldred and Princess Althaea. Despite the jovial atmosphere, Althaea noticed how Na-na's gaze lingered on certain individuals, as if she were assessing their worth.
"Your Highness," Na-na said, leaning toward Althaea, "may I ask you a question?"
"Of course," Althaea replied, masking her apprehension.
"What is it you desire most in this world?"
The question caught Althaea off guard. She hesitated, her gaze drifting to the goblet of wine in her hand. "Peace," she said finally. "For my people and for myself."
Na-na smiled faintly, her eyes unreadable. "A noble desire. But peace is not easily won. It must be cultivated, like the roses in your garden."
"And what do you desire, Princess?" Althaea asked, turning the question back on her.
Na-na's smile deepened, but she did not answer. Instead, she raised her goblet in a silent toast, her eyes gleaming with a hint of mischief. Althaea couldn't tell whether the glint was one of amusement or something more enigmatic.
As the evening wore on, Althaea found herself increasingly drawn to Na-na's enigmatic presence. Yet, beneath the admiration lay a nagging question that refused to be silenced:
Was Princess Na-na a bringer of unity, or a harbinger of chaos?