Slowly but surely sunset drowned Zephyrel in beautiful colours, playing on the stained glass windows of the castle, creating a magical atmosphere in which kelium patterns started emerging on the walls, subtle glow lighting up the rooms as the sunlight slowly hid behind the forests and mountains on the horizon. Royals were not alone at the feast — the king insisted his advisors and the high priestess attend as well, having much more knowledge to share if need be. However most of the political discussions came down to growing the birdborn trade. — We do appreciate your people's unique skills and I know most of the trade done at the moment is hidden, done in the shadows due to my people mostly overreacting and being overwhelmed at the presence of such visual might, — Sofiano did his best to be polite and offer king and queen of birdborn options they will appreciate. — We can all agree that birdborn and your men are quite different species, we had some incidents in the past... — Alerion was actively participating in the discussion, being the future of his kind and realising he must change quite a few things to move forward. — Alerion, my son, our kind is quite different from all others across the lands, — softly smiler queen Lumi before turning her firm gaze to Sofiano. — And yet we never have issues with Sin'lyan tribes, trading openly, no fuss made about our or their appearances. — You must forgive my kind, I know we're still quite barbaric over at Saramye. Not enough time has passed for us to grow, unfortunately, but we are working on fighting for a better world, if I might call it that way, — Sofiano smiled politely, keeping a strong fort. The feast passed quite well, considering the fragility of the subjects touched — Leportiers were quite aware how birdborn were treated before they came to rule and how people in Saramye were not exactly accepting when it came to beings looking different from themselves. The unfortunate reality was that mortal men feared anything different and reacted based on their fears. As night fell upon the castle, participants retired to their chambers. King and queen left first, as the queen felt tired and overwhelmed from all the stories Melissa shared of fashions and celebrations, and other womanly things Sofiano had little care for. It was good to be friendly however and he was glad Melissa participated so actively — his hopes were to govern together with his sister, her being a socialite Blooming court was missing so much. It would be much better, rather than living in fear that she would overthrow him the first chance she got. Not that the young king believed that, as they were close in age with Melissa and raised in friendship. Besides, she had no interest in ruling, only in throwing parties and flirting, as any young princess should be. Echo retired along with the High Priestess, claiming they had prayers to attend to. Alerion, Melissa and king's counsel retired shortly after, going their separate ways. Leaving Sofiano in the room right across from Siri. Yes, watched over by Zendaris, but only for guard purposes. Not that the young king would not gladly accept some advice from his old friend on how to approach such a gentle and unique creature. Sofiano was not a shy man, nor was he inexperienced — Blooming court was flooded by beautiful ladies from all over, their somewhat well-off parents sending them to lay under anything that had royal blood running through their veins. Anything to bear children with royal bloodlines tied to them, anything for a chance at fortune. — King Sofiano, would you care for a walk? — Siri looked at him with such honest interest that Sofiano was constantly out of words, simply admiring her. — Is it not too late for a young lady such as yourself to wander alone with a man? — That is a thing in the foreign lands? — she looked rather confused. — Besides, we would not really be alone, as the castle is always full of life, even under the dimmest moonlight. — Then we shall walk, — Sofiano smiled. As they walked through the long galleries of the castle, moonlight fell through the stained glass, dancing on Siri's face and shining on her feathers. The path led them to the castle's inner-yard, where a majestic garden was filled with flowers of all kinds, defying the boundaries of nature's ordinary rhythms. Flowers, luminous and otherworldly, bloomed in a riot of colours unseen in the mortal realm. Even under the soft glow of the moon, the garden was bursting with life, its blossoms unfurling in a silent symphony of colour and light, creating an ethereal sanctuary where magic and beauty intertwined. — I often wander here to hide from my duties, — giggled Siri. — Is it not fun being a princess? I've never actually been one, but Lissa seems to enjoy it. — Ah yes, your sister is quite better at it than me, — there was a sudden sadness in Siri's eyes. — To be quite honest, I know very little of your culture's traditions when it comes to younger daughters... — Sofiano had an urge to hug her, but knew that it would probably cost him dearly. — However, I guess any royal life is rather dull after a point. — Not to call it dull, Your Highness, rather it is...limiting. — That's an interesting word to use, Princess. — You might see us as free, able to roam the skies and craft beauty out of thin air, somewhat glamorous in our ways of living and treating our surroundings, but the truth is... I could not leave Highlands even if I really tried and that is what saddens me. The wings gifted to my ancestors are worthless if they can't show me the world, don't you think? — If only I could offer you any advice, lady Siri, however I am no better. — But you are here, — she gave him a look filled with subtle envy. — And the moment I finalize the trading relations with your father, I will be back in my castle, locked in corridors much less beautiful than those holding you. Limited to my realm, if not just the walls of my fortress. Having to make decisions for a whole kingdom from a room filled with a dozen other men who never leave the castle. And so we rule, pretending to know best, whilst never seeing the impact of our decisions... * * * * * The prayers were long finished and Echo was strolling down one of the galleries, enjoying the cool night breeze on her feathers, when a far away laughter caught her ears. She had not heard Siri laugh so wholeheartedly in a long-long time. Following the voices, Echo stayed hidden, realising Siri was not alone. To her disappointment, the youngest daughter of the Sylvillan royal family was not spending time courted by a proper birdborn lord or duke, instead she was sitting in the garden alcove, enjoying the softness of moonlight and blooming flowers with the visiting king of Saramye. Laughing over something like a hatchling, forgetting herself. Not able to stay in the shadows much longer, Echo takes a decision to approach the couple and break this romantic mist between them. How long have they been here? Was their conversation everything they'd done? As an older sister Echo felt responsible to save Siri from mistakes she should not be making with a foreign envoy, especially not that of a different...kind. — King Sofiano, Sirithorn, what an unexpected surprise! — Echo smiled, her face resembling a mask oh too well. — Echo, why are you here? — Siri immediately got defensive, but Sofiano softly covered her hand with his. — Princess Echo, it is a great pleasure to see you, even so late. How were your prayers? I apologize if we were expected to join... — No, Your Highness, the prayers are done by the priestesses in the name of all living, we do not force others to pray with us. How is it that the two of you are here...all alone? — Oh, we are not, — Sofiano turned his head to show that Zendaris was just close enough to the alcove to guard them, yet not close enough to eavesdrop. — I assure you I would not leave Lady Siri without guards. — It is not the guards I am concerned for, — Echo's eyes were colder than Saramye winters, Sofiano almost felt a chilling breeze enter the alcove. — My sister is far too young to be accompanied by strange men into dark gardens. Or would you, Your Highness, not be concerned had you find your younger sister practically in the arms of a foreign guest? "Not that I'd be surprised." — Lady Echo is right, — Sofiano turned to Siri. — Tomorrow we should take Avioris with us, so you are properly chaperoned. — That would not be an issue, — Siri smiled gently, understanding that he did not step back under Echo's pressure and genuinely enjoying her sister's face upon hearing the king's intentions. — King Sofiano, I do not believe that spending more time with my younger sister will lead to anything good, — Echo stood firm. — As much as I appreciate your care for your sister, Lady Echo, I believe she has a say in the matter rather than you. I do intend to formally ask your father's blessing to court of course. — Ha! And you think our father will allow... Oh that will be an interesting conversation! — there was something dark in Echo's eyes as she approached and grabbed Siri by the hands. — Well, until then I will be taking my sister and retiring to our chambers. Blessed be your night, king Sofiano. * * * * * The next couple of weeks Sofiano and Zendaris spent in discussions, finalizing the trading routes, permits and best locations for birdborn to arrive whenever they visit Saramye. It was a one-of-a-kind opportunity to break bread with not just the royal family, but the people as a whole and young Laportier could not miss it. That being said, it was not the only reason he'd spent weeks in the Highlands discussing details — every night after feasts they would meet in the gardens. Sofiano and Sirithorn. For quite obvious reasons, king Fetherel did not allow official courtship, did not bless Sofiano's intentions. Not that he considered Siri too young or her judgement of people lacking experience, but rather a union between birdborn and a mortal man seemed impossible. Fetherel wanted Siri happy and a union without heirs can never lead to happiness for either of the parties. You cannot stop a connection though. And so, Sofiano and Siri continued their meetings. In secret. Under the stained glass roof of a garden alcove, in the shimmering soft light of the moon. As the two spent more time together, a bond began to blossom, nurtured by shared experiences and a mutual understanding of the burdens of royalty. Raised within the gilded cages of their respective courts, they recognized in each other the unique blend of privilege and isolation that came with their birthright. They found solace in sharing their dreams and aspirations, their fears and sorrows. Sofiano was captivated by Siri's vibrant spirit and her deep well of knowledge, gleaned from the ancient texts and mystical traditions of the Highlands. He admired her unwavering connection to nature and her innate wisdom, so different from the political machinations of his own court. In turn, Siri was enchanted by Sofiano's artistic soul, finding beauty and depth in his poetry. She saw in him a vulnerability and a genuine desire to make a difference, qualities that resonated deeply within her. Despite their different backgrounds and the expectations placed upon them, they found common ground in their shared humanity. They were both more than just royal figures; they were individuals with passions, dreams, and a longing for something beyond the confines of their gilded cages. As they explored their differences and celebrated their similarities, their connection deepened. * * * * * — Avioris, I want to leave with him, — Siri was passionate about venturing into the world beyond highland borders. — My lady, that is not a wise decision, — High Priestess was an old friend Sirithorn could trust and it saddened her deeply that she was of no help to the young princess. — But why? — And what will you do, my lady? Live at a court filled with men and women looking nothing like you, fearing you? — As long as Sofiano is by my side it would not matter! — Oh child, you're speaking from the heart and reality will break it into pieces. He will not be able to stand guard of you day and night, you will have to face his court and then what? There will be no friends there, no one to rely on, and we will be here, weeks of travel away, days even through the skies. — But Avi… — You're speaking nonsense, my lady. — Avi, I am with child... — tears of both joy and sadness were shining on Siri's big emerald eyes. — From..? But how? Siri, we must tell the king and queen! This is unheard of! * * * * * A tremor ran through the very foundations of the birdborn castle, a seismic wave of fury emanating from the heart of King Fetherel. News of his beloved daughter Siri's pregnancy, conceived out of wedlock with the human King Sofiano, had ignited a fire within him. The ancient stones groaned under the weight of his rage and the delicate stained glass windows rattled in protest. His daughter, his Siri, carrying the child of a mortal, a king from a different realm, a different species entirely! It was an abomination, a violation of the natural order. Confusion warred with his fury, a desperate attempt to reconcile the image of his gentle daughter with this unthinkable transgression. He could not comprehend the love that had driven her to such a reckless act. The castle, once a symbol of harmony and wisdom, now echoed with the deafening silence of a father's broken heart and a king's unyielding rage. Not to mention she did not tell him herself — it was echo, who delivered the news, as she overheard Siri's conversations with Avioris. Her "concern" for her sister destroyed her father, bringing his spirits down. It was a moment when Fetherel almost reverted to birdborn rage, to the pure animal instinct to destroy what crumbles his world. However, queen Lumi held his arm firmly, placing him back into his mind. — Bring me king Sofiano, — the king whispered to the guards. * * * * * Sofiano stood in front of the birdborn king. His posture was full of subtle respect, as they did form a bond over the weeks of discussing trading routes and safe harbours for birdborn to travel into Saramye, be it a social visit or to sell their beautiful craft. Yet something was very different this time. The way he was summoned, the way the king looked at him. — King Sofiano, as I understand, all the required decisions have been made and all arrangements for trade between Highlands and Saramye are complete. You can return to your travels, we will not hold you any longer. — Fetherel, are we being thrown out? — The birdborn king's request did not seem friendly at all. — No, you have no reason to stay longer, I am simply stating the obvious. Now, please take your men and leave the Highlands. The meeting was over.