A Royal Obligation
Chapter 221: Queen Elena’s Departure

Chapter 221: Queen Elena’s Departure

The early afternoon sun bathed the courtyard of Valeidio Palace in a soft golden hue, but the scene was anything but serene.

Servants scurried back and forth, their hurried steps echoing off the stone walls as they prepared for Queen Elena’s departure. Voices called out instructions amidst the rhythmic clatter of hooves and wheels as the royal carriage stood at the center of the commotion.

The palace guards, clad in gleaming silver armor accented with Valeidio’s deep blue crest, maintained their vigilance, their disciplined movements a sharp contrast to the bustling chaos around them. Some stood by the gates, their hands resting firmly on the hilts of their swords, while others assisted the servants in loading the carriage.

Servants carried ornate trunks filled with Queen Elena’s belongings, their faces red with exertion.

A maid carefully folded a delicate silk gown into a wooden chest, while another man, his brow slick with sweat, hefted a crate of books into the carriage. Two footmen gingerly loaded a polished case filled with glass bottles of rare medicines gifted to the departing queen.

Standing near the carriage, Balthor, the head healer from Zephyros, who came to Valeidio with queen Elena loomed over the workers with an air of restless authority.

His dark brown robes, stitched with intricate golden thread denoting his high rank, fluttered as he gestured wildly, barking instructions.

"Careful with that bag! Do you want to ruin centuries of knowledge?" His sharp voice cut through the din as he pointed at a servant handling a leather satchel of medicinal herbs. "Hold it upright, upright, I said! These are rare compounds!"

The servant stumbled slightly under Balthor’s gaze, hurriedly adjusting the bag as instructed.

Balthor’s narrowed eyes flickered with impatience. Though he was eager to return to Zephyros, the healer’s excitement over what he had learned during his stay in Valeidio burned brighter. His mind raced with thoughts of the medical advancements he could spearhead back home.

"This will change everything," he muttered under his breath, his voice tinged with awe. "Extraordinary breakthroughs, right within our grasp."

The buzz in the courtyard stilled like the surface of a pond when the royals appeared.

Queen Morgana, draped in an emerald gown embroidered with silver vines, walked with quiet grace. Her enchanting white hair was swept into an elegant updo, held in place by a delicate tiara that sparkled in the afternoon light. Her expression was serene, but her eyes betrayed the sorrow of parting with a beloved friend.

Behind her, King Xavian cut an imposing figure in a tailored navy doublet adorned with golden accents, his boots polished to a mirror shine. His sharp gaze scanned the courtyard as if assessing every detail of the preparations.

Prince Theron walked beside him, his ash-blond hair catching the sunlight. He wore a muted gray tunic trimmed with cobalt blue, his demeanor calm but observant.

Amarok followed closely, his simple yet dignified attire, a dark leather jerkin over a linen shirt, highlighting his understated presence. His eyes, sharp and alert, darted around the courtyard, as if searching for something.

Balthor froze mid-sentence, his mouth still open as the royals descended the palace steps. The workers, sensing their approach, fell silent and straightened their postures. A maid curtseyed, nearly dropping a velvet pouch, while a footman quickly adjusted the positioning of the crates in the carriage.

"Your Majesties, Your Highness" Balthor greeted, bowing deeply. His excitement gave way to humility, though his fingers fidgeted at his sides, betraying his eagerness to depart.

When Queen Morgana reached the carriage, she paused, turning to face Queen Elena. The two women shared a look heavy with emotion.

"I will miss you dearly," Morgana said softly, her voice carrying a warmth that softened the tension in the air. Her hands reached out, clasping Elena’s.

Elena, clad in a flowing azure dress embroidered with golden suns, smiled gently. "And I you, my dear Morgana. These past weeks have been a gift. Your wisdom, your kindness... I will carry them with me always."

Morgana’s lips trembled as she replied, "Thank you so much, Elena, I wish we have more time to spend together."

The two queens embraced, holding each other tightly as if reluctant to let go. The courtyard fell silent, the weight of their bond felt by all who watched.

As they separated, Morgana stepped back, her eyes glistening. Elena smiled at her one last time, the expression soft but resolute.

King Xavian stepped forward, his expression serious but respectful. "Queen Elena, your presence here has been an honor. Valeidio will always stand with Zephyros."

"And Zephyros will always remember your hospitality and kindness," Elena replied with a gracious nod.

Theron inclined his head, his tone formal yet sincere. "Safe travels, Your Majesty. May your journey be swift and without trouble."

Amarok hesitated before stepping forward, his posture stiff but respectful. "Your Majesty, it has been a privilege to serve during your stay." His voice carried a quiet strength, though his eyes betrayed a hint of nervousness.

Elena’s gaze softened as she looked at him. "You serve your kingdom well, young man. and don’t forget to serve your lovers better when they return." she teased.

Amarok blushed deeply and the royals chuckled lightly.

A guard helped Queen Elena into the carriage, and Balthor climbed in after her, ensuring the precious medicinal satchels were safely tucked beside him. He gave one last glance at the workers, his eyes narrowing as if daring them to mishandle anything in his absence.

King Xavian turned to the assigned guards. "Stay vigilant. You are responsible for the safety of Queen Elena, during her journey back home." His voice was firm, leaving no room for misunderstanding.

"Yes, Your Majesty," the captain of the escort replied, bowing deeply before mounting his horse.

The courtyard remained silent as the carriage rolled forward, flanked by Valeidio soldiers. The wheels creaked, the horses’ hooves clattered against the cobblestones, and the banners bearing Zephyros’ crest fluttered in the wind.

The royals stood motionless, their gazes following the procession until the carriage disappeared beyond the palace gates. Morgana’s fingers tightened around her skirts, her composure wavering for a brief moment.

Amarok’s sharp eyes caught a flicker of movement near one of the pillars. His gaze shifted, locking onto a figure partially obscured by the pillar.

The servant girl he had confronted before. Her wide eyes followed the departing carriage, her posture tense and rigid.

Amarok’s jaw tightened, he turn away from her and pretend like he didn’t see anything as he followed the royals back toward the palace.

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