Capítulo 18: Arrival in Zephyros

The journey to Zephyros been mercifully free of further assassination attempts, but the memory of the ambush still haunted his thoughts.

As they neared the border of Zephyros, the soldiers of Valeidio who had accompanied the royal caravan bade their prince farewell.

Their expressions were a mix of sadness and pride as they watched Eirik prepare to cross into foreign territory. For many of them, this would be the last time they would see the young prince, and the thought weighed heavily on their hearts.

Eirik dismounted from his carriage, taking a moment to clasp the hands of his loyal guards, offering them words of gratitude. "Thank you for your service," he said, his voice steady despite the knot of anxiety tightening in his chest. "I am grateful to each of you for bringing me this far."

The soldiers bowed deeply, their eyes filled with respect and sorrow. "We wish you a safe journey, Your Highness," their captain said solemnly.

With a final nod, Eirik turned and stepped into the waiting carriage, to continue the rest of the journey to Tyrrus, the capital of Zephyros.

Captain Sadiki, ever vigilant, rode with him, his presence a constant source of comfort for Eirik. Behind them, another carriage followed, carrying Eirik's two personal maids, Lila and Amara.

As the caravan continued its journey toward Tyrrus, the landscape grew harsher and more unforgiving.

The towering peaks of Zephyros' mountains loomed in the distance, their jagged silhouettes cutting into the sky like the blades of swords.

Eirik gazed out of the carriage window, his thoughts a whirlwind of emotions. The closer they came to Zephyros, the more the weight of his situation pressed down on him.

"Zephyros is quite different from home, isn't it, my prince?" Sadiki remarked, breaking the silence that had settled between them.

Eirik nodded, his gaze still fixed on the imposing mountains. "Indeed, Sadiki. It's intimidating, to say the least."

Sadiki's hand rested reassuringly on the hilt of his sword, his eyes scanning the horizon for any signs of danger. "Remember, my prince, no matter where we are, I am here to protect you."

Eirik smiled faintly at Sadiki's steadfastness, drawing strength from his guard's unwavering loyalty. "Thank you, Sadiki. Your presence is a great comfort."

As the royal caravan approached the capital city of Tyrrus, the knot of anxiety in Eirik's chest tightened further.

The city's fortifications loomed ahead, a testament to Zephyros' military might and strategic brilliance. The tall, unyielding walls seemed to echo the disciplined strength of the soldiers who patrolled them, their armor gleaming under the midday sun.

The sound of trumpets signaled their arrival, and Eirik could see Zephyros' soldiers lining the streets, their expressions stoic and unyielding.

He peered out from his carriage window, taking in the sight of the disciplined ranks. It was clear that military prowess was deeply ingrained in the culture of Zephyros, and the sight only served to heighten his apprehension.

The citizens of Tyrrus, a mix of merchants, artisans, and common folk, lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the arriving prince.

Whispers of curiosity and speculation rippled through the crowd as they craned their necks to see the foreign royalty. However, their anticipation was met with disappointment as Eirik's veil obscured his features, leaving them to wonder about the enigmatic prince who had come to their land.

The caravan came to a halt before the grand gates of the royal palace, an architectural marvel built into the mountainside.

The palace's towering spires reached toward the heavens, and its stone walls were adorned with intricate carvings that depicted the history of Zephyros' military triumphs. The imposing structure seemed to radiate an aura of power and authority, a stark contrast to the more ornate and colorful palace of Valeidio.

Sadiki was at Eirik's side the moment he alighted from the carriage. His eyes scanned the surroundings with a practiced intensity, ensuring no threat could reach the prince.

Eirik was greeted by the chilly mountain air and the stern faces of Zephyros' nobility. At the forefront of the welcoming party stood Prince Kaelix's personal guard, a tall and imposing figure named Captain Drystan. Clad in the dark, ornate armor of Zephyros, Drystan exuded a commanding presence. He stepped forward and introduced himself with a respectful bow.

"Welcome to Zephyros, Prince Eirik. I am Captain Drystan, personal guard to Prince Kaelix. Unfortunately, the prince could not be here to greet you himself due to urgent matters. He sends his sincerest apologies."

Eirik knew it was an excuse, a slight meant to convey disdain. He kept his expression neutral, inclining his head in acknowledgment. "Thank you, Captain Drystan," he replied, his voice calm and measured. "Please convey my respects to Prince Kaelix."

Drystan's eyes flickered with curiosity as he took in the veiled prince. He wondered why Eirik chose to hide his face and what secrets lay behind that veil. However, his duty was clear, and he turned to gesture for Eirik to follow. "The king and queen await you inside. Please, come with me."

As they walked through the palace corridors, the initial grandeur gave way to a stark, militaristic aesthetic. The walls were adorned with paintings depicting famous battles and military victories, and the corridors were lined with statues of revered generals.

Eirik felt a pang of homesickness for the vibrant, artistic halls of Valeidio's palace. The cold, austere environment of Zephyros was a stark contrast to the warmth and color of his homeland.

"Such a stark difference from home," Eirik murmured, more to himself than anyone else.

Sadiki glanced around, his expression unyielding. "It was designed to be intimidating, my prince. You must not let it affect you."

Eirik nodded, appreciating Sadiki's resolve. "You're right. I must stay strong."

They entered the throne room, a vast chamber with high ceilings and large, stained-glass windows that cast colorful patterns on the stone floor. The room was grand, yet it carried an air of cold authority, with tapestries depicting scenes of war and conquest hanging from the walls.

At the far end of the room sat King Reagan and Queen Elena of Zephyros. King Reagan was an imposing figure, his presence commanding respect and authority. His sharp features and piercing eyes reflected a life dedicated to leadership and military strategy. Queen Elena, by contrast, had a gentler demeanor, though Eirik could sense a calculating sharpness in her gaze.

"Your Majesties," Captain Drystan announced, bowing deeply. "May I present Prince Eirik of Valeidio."

Eirik stepped forward and bowed gracefully, his veil still in place. "It is a great honor to meet you, Your Majesties."

The King's disappointment at not seeing his son welcome Prince Eirik personally was evident in the brief flicker of his eyes, though he masked it quickly. "Welcome, Prince Eirik of Valeidio," King Reagan said, his voice deep and resonant. "We trust your journey was uneventful."

"It was, Your Majesty," Eirik replied. "Thank you for your kind welcome."

Prince Eirik had no intention of telling them about the assassination attempt. The incident was better left unspoken, especially in the presence of those who might use it against him.

Queen Elena's eyes narrowed slightly as she regarded Eirik. Her lips curled into a small, almost imperceptible smile, but there was an undercurrent of malice in her gaze. "We are pleased to have you here, Eirik. We hope you will come to see Zephyros as your home."

Eirik responded with practiced politeness, though he could feel the chill of her words. "I am honored to be here, Your Majesties."

After the audience with the king and queen, Captain Drystan escorted Eirik to his chambers.

The corridors seemed to stretch endlessly, each turn revealing more of the palace's austere beauty. As they walked, Drystan couldn't help but steal glances at Eirik, his curiosity growing. Why did the prince hide his face? What secrets did he keep behind that veil?

"Your Highness, the welcoming ball will be held tonight in the grand ballroom. You are expected to arrive by eight," Drystan informed Eirik as they reached his chambers.

"Thank you, Captain Drystan. I will be there," Eirik replied, his voice steady.

Drystan nodded, though he remained silent, pondering the enigma that was Prince Eirik. He could sense the prince's uneasiness, but his duty was to serve, not to pry. Before leaving, Drystan paused, a flicker of hesitation crossing his stern features.

"Is the room to your liking, Prince Eirik?" Drystan asked, his tone polite but distant.

"Yes, it is quite satisfactory. Thank you," Eirik replied, his voice tinged with a hint of melancholy.

Drystan nodded once more and took his leave, closing the door behind him.

Once alone, Eirik let out a long breath, his composure faltering. Sadiki remained by the door, his expression unreadable but his presence a comforting constant.

Shortly after, Lila and Amara entered, having unpacked their own belongings in the adjoining quarters.

"This place feels so different from home," Eirik murmured, mostly to himself.

Lila glanced up, offering a sympathetic smile. "We will adjust, Your Highness. It will take time, but we will make this feel like home."

Amara nodded in agreement, her hands deftly arranging Eirik's belongings. "We are here with you, Prince Eirik. You are not alone."

Eirik smiled faintly, grateful for their loyalty and support. "Thank you, both of you. Your presence means a great deal to me."

Captain Sadiki stepped forward, his voice low and reassuring. "We will keep you safe, my prince. No harm will come to you as long as I am by your side."

Eirik nodded, drawing strength from Sadiki's unwavering dedication. "I know, Sadiki. Thank you."