Hall of Congress

The convoy of knights and the princess had set off weeks ago and the people of the empire had kept their fingers crossed. As they reached the gates of the castle, the cheers of the people reached a crescendo. The princess smiled in joy, glad to be home. Soon afterwards, Bella remembered a pressing issue as she raced to the halls of Congress, following closely behind was Blair to not separate the little girl from the woman.

Blair felt the urgency of the matter at hand when the princess ordered him to follow her into the Hall of Congress without formalities. He felt concern for the women and the little girl despite not knowing who or what she is. But his loyalty is pledged to the crown.

"Father, may I have a word with you?"

The King was relieved to see the princess safe return as well as her mother, Queen Esra, was at his side. But the princess could not recuperate with the king's joyous feelins to be reunited as Bella spoke with urgency and grief. The King composed himself and calmly observed Bella, seeing how desperate she is. The King asked Bella to continue.

"Speak."

"Please forgive me. I want to speak privately with my mother and father. I have Captain Blair with me who personally rescued me. May he be present."

Bella's desperate and grief-stricken state was evident to the King. A melodic voice revered into the hall before the King asked his subjects to leave.

There is no need for that, Bella, otherwise I won't be able to get justice. Also, my baby sister looks uncomfortable. She should be given to me."

All sat in silence, flabbergasted by the women's audacity, and the fact that the princess was instructed by someone unknown. This upset the King and Queen.

Blair was in a conundrum. The woman in his arm knew no bounds but what she said could mean life sentenced in the pits - endless nights getting pounded by crazed champions; relieving themselves however they please. Those thrown into the pits were given a unique number; engraved into their flesh. Even royalties who wish to join in on the fun can privately request it. As soon as they forget who they are except for their collar number, they become envious of the rest of the world around them. It was everything about the pit that frustrated Blair, and he deep down hoped she would not meet the same fate. He even intended to use her for personal purposes if the situation demanded it.

She avoided Blair and made her way to the princess when everyone was absorbed in their own thoughts.

In a soft soothing lullaby, the woman gently separated her sister from the princess, cradling her back to sleep. As soon as her song ended, the queen nudged the king awake to deal with the unknown woman. As soon as the king cleared his throat, he examined her profile closely to realise an unmistakable feature. Standing from his throne, the king stepped toward her with urgency. In spite of the fact that the king was aware his behaviour was improper and insulting to his eldest princess, who had only just returned, he always abided by the palace's rules and etiquette. Further angering the Queen, who remained composed all this time to maintain her dignity.