The days went by in their usual manner, and now it was a very special day. Not only were the guests arriving, but it was also Ledus’ birthday. When he awoke, Tyel, the maids, and Jarin were all there. Each greeted him in turn. Jarin was the first to present his gift. As Ledus had predicted it was a new gown, jewels and perfumes. “Now you must be careful in this, you’ll wear it for the party today. Also you will wear it to meet our guest, who will be arriving shortly.” He turned his attention to the maids, “I don’t want to see a single hair out of place. After you finish dressing him, give him some breakfast then bring him to the Hall.” Having finished his orders, he gave Ledus a kiss on the forehead and left the room. Tyel watched as the maids dressed him, He was wearing a very elegant light purple tunic with navy blue embroidered designs along the edges. His pants were loose all the way down to his ankles and were a soft cream color. Lastly, they put his navy blue short boots on. When they finished dressing him, they brushed and styled his hair into a fishtail braid, then added the jewels, the whole time Ledus kept a blank expression. “He really is like a doll.” Tyel thought.

After his meal they joined prince Jarin in the Hall. He gave Ledus a very light careful hug. “You look astounding. Right on time too.” Jarin motioned for Tyel and the maids to step aside. He moved to the center of the room with Ledus. Ledus stood behind him, ever so slightly to the left. The doors opened and a new light streamed into the room.

The guest was a tall built man with caramel tanned skin. His eyes were a deep emerald green and his hair a dark chocolate brown. He had a light beard that only seemed to make him more manly and slightly intimidating to Ledus. “Only old people have beards...but he doesn’t look that old.” Ledus had never seen anyone like him, and the people behind him were just as tall and intimidating. The man approached Jarin, “Prince Jarin.” his voice rang out loud and clear, it was deep but soft. It held power and demanded respect. Although everything about this man was foreign and intimidating to Ledus, hearing his voice strangely filled his heart with a sense of safety.

“It’s been a long time my friend.” They grasped each other's arms and bowed their heads. Ledus noticed a few leather bracelets on the strangers wrist, one of them had a small stone charm, the charm seemed to glow. Forgetting himself, he leaned slightly to the side to get a better look at it. The movement caught the strangers eye.

“Oh, who is this?” he inquired, glancing at the boy. Prince Jarin stepped aside to reveal Ledus who stood straight and lowered his head.

“This is Ledus, the greatest treasure in our kingdom.” Ledus bowed his body, he glanced up at the stranger. The man’s face seemed to disapprove of Ledus, causing the boy to quickly look away.

“I-it’s a pleasure to meet you, my lord.” he squeaked out in a timid voice. Tyel could see that Ledus was scared of the visitor, he wished desperately that Jarin would notice as well but unfortunately he didn’t.

“Today, Ledus will keep you company. Tyel, bring Ledus’ cloak.” Tyel wrapped the cloak around Ledus and tried to give him a reassuring smile before stepping back. “Kara, Liyette, you’re dismissed until the party, Tyel I have some things to discuss with you.” he turned his attention back to the guest, “Lord Kade, please feel free to explore the palace while you wait, we have also arranged a room for your companions to rest.” Jarin had a servant lead the others to the guest room, the maids and Tyel followed Jarin out of the room, Ledus was left alone with a man he was certain didn’t like him.