Emperor's Reckoning



Yala nodded, confirming her lineage. "Yes, Iris is my mother."

"No way..." Kesya muttered in disbelief. "They finally have a child."

Lyon, caught in a whirlwind of emotions and revelations, was at a loss for words. He would have preferred to be called a thief than be labeled an uncle at his age.

Cecile was warm and affectionate, reaching out to rustle Yala's hair gently. "You're as beautiful as your mother, and that mischievous glint in your eyes... just like her. But those eyes, they remind me so much of your father."

Selena, the woman of fewer words but deep affection, offered a genuine smile as she observed Yala. Her love for her friends was evident in her eyes.

Kesya, bubbling with excitement and joy, suddenly pulled Yala into a tight hug, almost out of nowhere. "I'm so sorry for knocking you unconscious! We didn't know, really." Her enthusiasm seemed to fill the atmosphere.

Karina and Lyon were at a loss, and so was the old man. Lyon broke the silence, trying to lighten the mood with a fake cough, "So, anyone want to fill me in on this family reunion?"

Selena's words cut through the air, carrying with them echoes from a past Lyon had yet to recover. "Darling, you were quite taken with Iris, our dear princess's mother. In fact, you chased after her for quite some time."

Lyon stumbled over his thoughts, memories resurfacing like distant whispers. He had put these memories in a far corner of his mind, hidden away from the harsh reality of his present. "Iris... yes, I remember now. She was quite a character, strong-willed and intelligent."

Cecile, her eyes fixed on Lyon. "It's fascinating how life weaves its own tale. From chasing her mother to forming a deep connection with her daughter. Fate does have a twisted sense of humor."

Yala, now unmasked, was quiet. The revelations about her parentage were overwhelming. She looked at Lyon, her expression a mixture of curiosity and realization. "You were pursuing my mother... but... you look like my age, and also... father said you died."

Lyon hesitated, feeling a complex mixture of emotions. "Yes, I was. But that was a different time, a different me. I've changed, as you can see."

Cecile leaned forward, her eyes eager to grasp any tidbit of information that could provide insights into their convoluted history. "What did your mother say about Lyon?"

Yala hesitated, recalling fragments of conversations with her mother. "She spoke of Lyon in a complicated way. She'd say, 'Lyon is a man of many masks, some he wears for himself, some for the world. Beware the man who doesn't reveal his true face, for he hides secrets deeper than the abyss.' It was cryptic, but I sensed a mix of caution and something else, a tinge of sadness perhaps."

Yala looked at Lyon, her eyes reflecting her intrigue. "My father was quite different. He was always eager to tell me about Uncle Lyon, even if my mother remained somewhat reserved."

Lyon raised his brows as his emotion shifted.

Yala continued, her voice tinged with curiosity. "My curiosity was piqued the moment my father mentioned that the best archer he knew was himself and a human named Lyon, whom he regarded as both a friend and a rival. I always wondered about the person who could stand on equal ground with my father, someone who was more than a mere acquaintance."

Yala smiled, finding this insight fascinating. "It's strange how relationships can be so complex, encompassing both rivalry and camaraderie."

Kesya, always one for humor, chimed in. "Well, I'd prefer a friendly rivalry over a bitter one any day."

Cecile nodded in agreement. "Indeed. It's a unique bond, one that challenges but also uplifts."

"An old friend..." Lyon murmured. "I need to meet him."

Selena, ever observant, noticed the worry in Yala's eyes. "Is everything alright with your father, the Elven Emperor?"

Yala hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Yes, he still holds the title, but there have been growing concerns in our realm. The balance of power is shifting, and there's an undercurrent of unrest."

Cecile nodded thoughtfully. "Considering the evolving circumstances, it might be prudent to seek your father's assistance, Yala. His influence and resources could be invaluable in our quest to locate Maria."

"Well, I say that is a good idea, I can't believe how fate smiles upon you, Lyon," said the old man. "It's enough to make gods jealous sometimes."

Yala's decision to return to the Elven Empire weighed heavily on her mind. While the prospect of reuniting with her parents and contributing to the looming war was undeniable, the journey back wouldn't be without its challenges. She had, after all, snuck out of her homeland, escaping the strict protocols and responsibilities of her royal status.

Yala took a deep breath, gathering the courage to admit her actions. "I should tell you the truth. I sneaked out of the Elven Empire. My departure wasn't exactly... official."

Selena raised an eyebrow. "Sneaked out? That's quite rebellious for a princess."

Cecile crossed her arms like an older aunt looking at the mischief of a kid. Her eyes glint with playfulness. "Now that explains why you're all the way here."

Yala sighed, relieved that they didn't seem too upset with her. "I had my reasons, but now I'll need to sneak back in. It won't be easy, but I have to try."

Lyon, who had been listening quietly, finally spoke up. "You've got a group of talented individuals here who can help you with that."

Yala's eyes widened. "You would? I suppose I'll have to rely on your thieving skills, Uncle Lyon."

He grinned. "Consider it my way of making amends for 'borrowing' that tome— and don't call me uncle!"

"Ngh?!" Yala's eyes widened in shock as her figure suddenly glowed with a vibrant red light.

"The Summoning Ruby Stone!" Lyon exclaimed, recognizing the phenomenon.

Before anyone could react, a powerful force propelled Yala, and in an instant, she was whisked away to the distant horizon. They could only watch, helpless, as she vanished from sight.