Diamondlot

Unlikely Allies

Reina walked out of Birkaran’s home and was joined by Jiyah and Nadya beside her. They were then met by the royal guards Aaryav and Ranak. Both of them kneeled down to acknowledge Reina as the princess. She immediately asked them to rise and that there was no need for the formalities. “We are both indebted to you for saving us from the creature. Tell us what we can do for you?” Ranak asked. Reina let them know that it was unnecessary but Aaryav insisted, “We can take care of the two mercenaries for you!”

The Eishaans were still lying on the ground, badly injured but still conscious. Aaryav and Ranak rushed towards them and held their spear near them. “Heh, guess this is the end of the line for us.” Ishaan stated. “I was hoping to get one last meal but I guess it can’t be helped. Finish us!” Eshaan exclaimed. Aaryav and Ranak stood by, awaiting orders from Reina. She walked up to both of the guards and told them to put away their weapons.

Reina stretched out her hands and held her left hand above Ishaan, right to Eshaan. Both of them were confused as Reina began to close her eyes. They thought Reina was going to cast a painful spell on them as a glow began to appear on their wounds. They were in distress at first but overtime, the pain from the wound dissipated and began to heal.

Once Reina opened her eyes and stood up, the Eishaan checked his body to find that all his injuries had been healed. They finally understood that the ‘rogue’ they had been pursuing this whole time was actually the princess of the West Kingdom.

Eshaan: Why did you choose to save us?

Ishaan: Yeah, we tried to capture you!

Reina: We all do the best with what we know, but none of that matters right now. Like it or not, we have a common enemy.

Ishaan: And who would that be?

Reina: Dragkonis, he’s going to destroy the entire kingdom if we don’t stop him.

Eshaan: Why would you need our help?

Jiyah: Are you daft? This dragon has power to destroy the kingdom! We need all the help we can get! Even if it's from two slimy mercenaries like the two of you!

Nadya: You really know how to win people over.

Ranak: Princess Reina, this is a bad idea.

Aaryav: Yeah, they are mercenaries, we can’t trust that they will try and kidnap you when we let our guard down.

Ishaan: They raise a very good point, what’s stopping us from attempting to capture you again?

Jiyah: Well then, Nadya and I will stop you, over and over again, until you finally understand. (cracks her knuckles)

Nadya: exactly what she said!

Ishaan: Ok, you drive a hard bargain.

Eshaan: I just have one question for the princess.

Ranak & Aaryav: Speak.

Eshaan: Will you pay for our meals? Fast food included?

Reina: Of course I can!

Eshaan: I’m in!

Ishaan: Figures. Guess I got no other choice.

The three girls were now joined up with the royal guards and the two mercenaries. Shortly after their conversation, Leyyah, Jawad and Maggie appeared to accompany them as well.

Leyyah congratulated the girls on getting them clearance to cross into the Barren Wasteland and also obtaining some fresh recruits. Nadya revered the comment made by Leyyah and tried to be modest about their efforts. Jawad was boasting how he had the utmost confidence in the trio all along. This drew a bit of disgust from Jiyah as she was just getting used to life without the mangolor around. “Hey, at least you weren’t stuck with him at the camp.” Maggie remarked.

Before they continued on, Reina wanted to make sure the villagers were faring well in this new location. “Have no fear, Sediya is doing a fine job looking after the people. You have no need to worry.” Reina let out a huge sigh of relief. “Plus, there is a man who is keeping everyone entertained. I believe he called himself, Remy the Jester.” Leyyah added.

The girls weren’t sure how this jester kept magically appearing everywhere they went, but they had bigger concerns. They all gathered together and began to make their way towards the Barren Wasteland.