In contrast, high above in castle grounds was the Prince of Larion, Liam Ywain Cynfael Aristo, training with one of the many knights, in-training, of Lady Penelope.
Liam was attired in a knights ritter covered by a white doublet, his hair a fluffy blonde that perfectly shaped his face. His eyes, blue like lapis, reflecting the sun above.
Alongside him was Sir Castro-Laufel, his first name Damien. The knight's hair was none to the prince; his navy blue hair ruffled by his baking helmet, as his eyes, as golden as a lit candle.
They were clearly training for quite some time, both panting with sweat veering down their faces.
Lowering his sword, Damien began, "My Prin-"
"Liam" He referred with a stern look
"Liam, why don't we take a break?, we've been at this for hours." Damien suggested
"I guess so," Liam answered.
"You've definitely improved on your defence against others.." Damien reassured as he sat down cross legged amongst the grass courtyard, "However, your offence on another hand for sure needs improving!"
"Will you help me on that?" Liam queeried "You've been a great help after all."
"Just repaying a debt to Lou."
"Yea, yeah!"Liam gestured
Louise Lucien Ettienne Aristo was the oldest child of Emperor Tyrion, elder sister of Liam. She was supposedly the age to be married off or to take hold of the throne, yet her father was nowhere near death, leaving her the first option.
She arrived at the grassy courtyard and stood beside a wall, hidden away from the sun.
She wore a pearl linen gown that reached her knees, fitting her just right, her usual flowing hair propped up in a braided updo, as numerous strands of golden leaves tied with a string blended nicely with her hair.
"Looks like you two are having fun!" Lou snickered in the corner as her arms rested beside her waist. " Father has returned from his voyage Liam. He's requested for our presence."
"I suppose we can continue another day then" Damien said directly to Liam.
Lou then conveyed, " Oh, he also requested that you come along."
Damien portrayed a confused expression, "Me?"
"Believe me, I have no idea either, but i also know that he doesn't like to wait. So hurry up you two!" Lou commanded
Lou followed out, conducting the two to The Throne Room.
As they entered the passage before the Throne Room, two guards gestured to Lou entering on her own as they were to be seen one sibling at a time.
She sauntered through the door catching the sight of her father sitting among his royal throne. After he'd been on a monthly voyage discussing strategic events, Lou assumed her father would've at least been resting, however she assumed wrong.
Returning back to Larion at a time of war, was not resting. Emperor Tyrion sat straight up on his throne with his legs folding over. His clothing differed from the one he wore along the ship.
Tyrion wore a black doublet, with a golden epaulette worn on his left shoulder. As
for resting on his arm, was a grey cape; a blue sash hung across.
He muttered a few words to his right hand advisor standing beside him as he signalled a wave towards Lou.
She strolled along towards the emperor, meeting three steps in between. Lou bowed down before him, " Your Highness ", she nodded, "father, you've requested my presence?"
"Indeed I have" he uttered over as he sat upright closer to his daughter, yet retreating into a more comfortable position, "I've called you here seeing i have returned from my long journey and wish to see my heir!" Tyrion rested his chin on his hand, "Yet it has also come to my attention that you are now the appropriate age for marriage?!"
"Appropriate age of marriage?'. Lou froze momentarily. She was nowhere near marriage mentally. Especially having to practically be sold off to a wealthy kingdom.
"U-uh marriage?" Lou stuttered
"Yes! You're 21, Lou." The Emperor grinned "-you've had far too many days of freedom. With the upcoming battle I should be advised that you're safe."
She stood up in shock as she contemplated the series of questions following up 'Why?'. "But Fath-"
"For that reason, I'm hosting a betrothal for a weeks evening. Understood?" Tyrion interrupted.
"Y- yes father.."
He then indicated a servant of which he attended Lou out of the room.
She completely ignored Damien and Liam focusing on her hand which trembled as she placed it on her front.