They had landed in the clearing just beyond the Palace gates . The four dragons landed lightly, and the guards on the gate watched in awe, their hands hesitating on their weapons there was a time these dragons meant destruction and for their lands and people . Most were glad when they saw Lazren step down from the larger carriage . That soothed their concerns a bit, knowing him as well as they did .
The Empress Vivian sighed with relief as she stood at the gates to greet them . Prince Alexi and Prince Damar already with her, and word had been sent to Clovis . She was quite sure he would want to greet his wife and unborn baby .
Alexi and Damar moved forward both ignoring the dragons as Lazren helped Lalia step down from the carriage onto the earthen floor . She offered a bright smile and threw her arms around Alexi's neck only to be Embraced tightly and spun around .
Advertisement"You are never going hunting again . " Alexi forbid, trying to hide his face in her crimson hair . His wife smiled softly and chuckled .
"I don't know . If I get this much love on returning . . " she teased with a wicked grin and he glared at her .
"Mine . " He replies and she smiled letting him hold her as he wished .
Damar saw her coming to the door and waved Lazren away before he could help Melania down . She watched him with soft but uncertain eyes . He grasped her at her waist and lifted her effortlessly before setting her on the ground . His eyes never left hers though they burned with something she didn't understand . His hands lingered for a moment before letting go .
"Welcome home . " He spoke a bit awkwardly and offered a smile that looked a touch more like a grimace . Damar knew how gruff he sounded and regretted it . He walked with her to greet Empress Vivian and then he tensed slightly . Staring straight ahead he wrapped his fingers around the delicate hand that had just claimed his . He shot her a glance and she looked down removing her hand from his, her expression saddened . Then, a strong arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her against his side .
Feya stepped down, but Kan handed her out of the carriage . As soon as her feet were on the ground he pulled away as if her touch burned her . Seeing the other joyful reunions she rushed to her husband's side . Bastil stood ramrod straight at Empress Vivian's right side . It was clear where he thought he belonged . Feya smiled and wrapped her arms around him only to receive a light pat on the back, nothing more .
"Your kills?" He asked without skipping a beat .
"The kills are in the chilled carriage . I did well for my hunt . " She replied hoping for praise . He smiled and nodded at her, but it wasn't a real smile . His eyes were cold as ever .
Bryson stepped out of the carriage and helped Crystalsa down carefully . Both dressed formally despite the long trip . Crystalsa stood tall the flowing winter dress was made of thin fabric for this heat, but made her appear taller and more elegant . The Empress Vivian waited with a smile as the pair made their way to her . Vivian and Crustalsa both bowed slightly at the same time .
"Welcome to Forest Gate, and we thank you for returning our Princesses safe and sound . " Vivian greeted her warmly and the two women both smiled . Bryson stood at his Mother's back .
"It is a pleasure, Empress Vivian . This is my Son Bryson, Grandsire of the future Matriarch of the frost Lands . " Crystalsa introduced him and he swept a grand bow, surprisingly low for such a large figure .
"He is not your heir?" Vivian asked honestly curious . This was a odd statement among royals .
"No, my Granddaughter is pregnant and her parents were unavailable so I came in her stead . " Bryson explained offering a roguish smile . Empress Vivian returned the smile understanding .
"Of course, I pray for a healthy birth . " The Empress replied as a fourth Prince came to join them .
"Ahh Prince Clovis . " Bryson greeted bear hugging the younger man who endured it .
Chapter end
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