As the Starblade Knights and their General rode their horses through the hills and verdant valleys, the city of Eldoria came into view. Eldoria shone like a gemstone, its architecture a testament to the kingdom's rich history and culture.
Eldoria, a fortified nation with a history of triumphing over every foe, stood as a testament to the nation's unyielding spirit. Its imposing stone walls and iron gates reflected its fearsome reputation, while its lush landscape of rolling hills, verdant forests, and sparkling rivers created a breathtaking panorama. The city pulsed with energy. Its grand architecture, gold-adorned gates, and bustling markets showcased its wealth and prosperity.
As they galloped closer, joy was evident on their faces as they had left their homes three months ago to go fight against the Kingdom of Liay. They longed to go back to their families and loved ones.
"We'll reach the capital city in less than two days," Ryker said, his voice low and measured. "Let's take a break here and rest for a while". The men and horses need it."
His knights nodded in agreement, grateful for the respite. They dismounted, leading their horses to a nearby stream where they could drink and refresh themselves. Ryker walked a short distance away, surveying the terrain and planning their route into the city.
As they rested, Ryker's thoughts turned to the celebrations that would await them in the capital. He knew the people would be eager to welcome him home, to celebrate the victory and the return of their heroes. He felt a sense of pride and responsibility, knowing that he and his men had earned their rest.
The sun beat down on them, warm and comforting, and Ryker felt a sense of peace wash over him. For a moment, he forgot about the battles they had fought, the losses they had suffered. All that mattered was the moment, the beauty of the landscape, and the camaraderie of his knights.
....
Aurelia woke up feeling refreshed and revitalized. She got up to get dressed with the help of her maid, Elara.
"My lady, what would you like to wear?" Elara asked her, holding out three embellished dresses for her to choose from.
"Elara, it's just dinner, something simple I would do. No corsets please, I'm not going for a fashion contest", Aurelia told her.
Elara laughed before saying "It does not matter what my lady wears, you look good in absolutely anything."
"Oh please, don't start with your teasing"
"Teasing? I'm telling you the truth. Have you seen yourself in a mirror? My lady, you look like you walked out of a painting," Elara said, almost looking heartbroken because her lady thought she was joking.
"Okay, I have heard you Elara. Now, get me dressed before all that is left on that dining table is napkins," Aurelia said, laughing lightly.
"Okay, my lady," Elara replied, smiling a little before getting straight to work. She combed Aurelia's hair, letting it flow down in its golden loose natural waves. Elara helped her wear a simple sky-blue gown which she had settled for.
All set, Aurelia descended to the dining hall, with Elara following behind, the aroma of delicious food wafted up, making her stomach growl with anticipation.
The dinner table was set with fine china and candles, the aroma of roasted meats and steaming vegetables filling the air. Aurelia's family gathered around, eager to hear about her experiences with her grandparents.
"Tell us, dear, how was your time with Grandmother and Grandfather?" her mother asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.
Aurelia smiled, "It was wonderful! They taught me so much. I learned archery and even some martial arts."
When they heard her, they each had their mouths opened wide. Eldoria was not known to have women interested in archery and swordsmanship, they were mostly male-dominated, not that there was any law restricting them from participating. The women instead preferred artistry talents like embroidery, painting, playing musical instruments, singing, dancing and the likes.
Her father raised an eyebrow, "Archery and swordmanship? That's impressive. "You're quite skilled, I presume?"
Aurelia nodded, "Yes, Father. I've been practicing regularly. Grandfather says "I have a natural talent."
Her brother, Edwin , chimed in, "Ooh, can you show us some moves?"
Aurelia laughed, "Maybe tomorrow after breakfast."
"I look forward to it", Edwin replied, grinning.
He was glad he'd been able to spar with his sister. Edwin is a Knight at the palace, but his goal is to be a Starblade Knight. He has been practicing for years to join General Ryker's Knights. However, joining is no easy feat. The General only recutes the elite of the elites. One has to be extremely talented to be a Starblade Knight, a name that brings honour and respect to its bearer.
Aurelia smiled, saying "But I did learn some beautiful embroidery patterns from Grandmother. She taught me intricate stitches and designs."
Her mother smiled, "That's lovely, dear. I'm sure your grandmother was delighted to share her skills with you. And how about dancing? Did you take any lessons?"
Aurelia's face lit up, "Yes! I took ballet and courtly dance lessons. Although, I didn't get to attend many balls at Edistone."
"Don't worry sis. There'd be many balls for you to attend, especially during this season. I'm certain the Emperor would organise a welcome ball for General Ryker and the Starblade Knights to celebrate their victory in the war," Felix said.
Her father, Lord Thomas, replied "That is certain. General Ryker has yet again made a name for himself."
"True. One would almost not believe he's just 24. At 24 his grandfather, who was a great general, was only a platoon leader, only becoming a general at age 42. His highness became Eldoria's general at age 19, making him the youngest chief general in history. He is just too outstanding", Edwin said, with obvious respect laced in his voice.
"His highness?" Aurelia said in confusion.
"You don't know? He's a second-rank prince. He was awarded that title by the Emperor when he won the greatest war in the history of Eldoria against the Kingdom of Peller. The war took place when he had newly assumed his position as a general," Felix explained.
"That makes him the most important person in Eldoria after the Emperor and the crown prince, but the crown prince is only five. Rumor has it that The Gen as people call him, is the Emperor's confidant and best friend," Edwin added, her parents nodding in agreement.
Aurelia was speechless. How can anyone be this outstanding? The continuous mention of Ryker's name sparked deep curiosity in her heart. She wanted to meet this person she had heard so many great things about.
"So Felix, where is Emma? I haven't seen her or Ben around", Aurelia changed the topic to stop her thoughts from wandering. Emma is Felix's wife and Ben is their three-year-old son.
"Emma is visiting her parents. It had been long since she last saw them, so she decided to spend some time with them, but she should be back in a week's time. I should have gone with them, but I had some important things to do here," Felix answered.
"Okay. I can't wait to meet her, everyone kept showering her with praise in the letters I got when I was in Edistone," Aurelia said, smiling.
Her mother replied, "You'd love her, Aurelia, she's such a lovely girl."
"Yes, she is. Your brother is definitely whipped by her", Kevin, her father said, laughing.
"He's blushing!" Edwin shouted, laughing so hard.
Aurelia smiled brightly at the scene before her. Oh! How she missed home. It felt good to be back.
The family chatted and laughed, enjoying each other's company and their father's failing attempts at cracking jokes. The evening passed pleasantly, filled with warmth and love.
...
Two days later.
General Kyler rode on his loyal steed, Storm, a blind majestic black stallion which Kyler had rescued during his first war at age fifteen. Storm had been with him for nine years since then and they shared an unbreakable bond. Storm carried him steadily towards the city gates. Ryker's armor gleamed in the sunlight, adorned with the insignia of his rank and the emblem of Eldoria. His sword hung at his side, a constant companion in battle.
As he rode, Ryker's thoughts turned to the war that had ravaged the kingdom. He fought bravely, leading his troops to victory against overwhelming odds. The enemy had been vanquished, but at great cost. Ryker's heart still ached for the losses they had suffered.
As they entered the city, Ryker and the Starblade Knights, 180,000 of them, were greeted by cheering crowds. They hailed the General as a hero, but he was unfazed by their compliments. Instead, his eyes scanned the crowds, searching for someone. He didn't know why, but he felt a sense of anticipation, a feeling that his life was about to change in ways he couldn't yet imagine.
Aurelia donned a veiled hat, a necessary precaution given her striking features. She and her maid, Elara, had set out to explore the city, unaware that today was the day General Ryker's procession would take place.
As they navigated the bustling streets, Aurelia's eyes widened at the sea of people. Suddenly, cheers erupted, and the crowd parted. A majestic horse, its coat gleaming, came into view, two other horses riding by its sides. General Ryker sat tall in the saddle with his Knights following behind, his piercing gaze scanning the crowd.
Aurelia's heart skipped a beat as Ryker's horse drew closer. She saw the young man's strong jawline, his piercing eyes, and his commanding presence. Handsome! This was what she thought.
As General Ryker rode through the crowded streets, his gaze swept over the sea of faces. Amidst the cheering throngs, one figure caught his eye – a woman with a veiled hat, her elegance and poise standing out amidst the chaos. Her statuesque figure seemed almost regal, and Ryker's curiosity was piqued.
Though he couldn't see her face, Ryker's gaze lingered on her, taking in the subtle details of her posture, the way she held herself with quiet confidence. For a moment, their eyes seemed to meet, or at least, Ryker felt the sensation of connection, though the veil obscured her features. He noticed a bracelet on her wrist with an intricate pattern. How he was able to notice that reflected how much attention he paid to her. Retracting his gaze, the general looked forward, riding into the imperial city to meet the emperor.
The crowd surged forward, and Ryker's horse moved on, but the image of the mysterious woman lingered in his mind. He felt an inexplicable sense of intrigue, a desire to know more about her, to uncover the identity behind the veil.
As he rode toward the palace, Ryker's thoughts strayed from the celebrations ahead to the enigmatic woman in the crowd. Who was she? What laid beneath the veil? The questions swirled in his mind, leaving him with a sense of anticipation, a feeling that their paths might cross again.
Aurelia felt a jolt, realizing her eyes had locked on the general's green ones, although he had moved his gaze almost immediately. She watched his shoulders as he rode past. She was momentarily obstructed by a tall onlooker, but when the man moved, she caught another glimpse of the general.
Aurelia felt an inexplicable spark. She turned to Elara, her voice barely above a whisper, "Who is that?"
"Who?" Elara was confused because Sir Alaric, the head guard and Sir Marcus, the General's Aide, each rode by the General's sides, so she was not sure who Aurelia was referring to.
"The man on the black horse, wearing a black uniform," Aurelia replied almost impatiently, waiting for her to reply.
Elara's face lit up, "That's General Ryker, the hero of Eldoria. He has returned with his knights , the Starblade Knights. It has been said that they have never lost a battle."
"That's impressive," was all Aurelia could say. She was too distracted to think of a proper response. Aurelia's curiosity was piqued. She watched as the general rode off into the distance with his knights, the crowd's cheers still not fading into the background.